bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the effects of heat vulnerability on heat-related emergency medical service incidents: Lessons from Austin, Texas
Authors: Seong Kijin , Jiao Junfeng , Mandalapu Akhil
Published: September 2022

Extreme heat exposure and sensitivity have been a growing concern in urban regions as the effects of extreme heat pose a threat to public health, the water supply, and the infrastructure. Heat-related illnesses demand an immediate Emergency Medical Service (EMS) response since they might result in death or serious disability if not treated quickly. Despite increased concerns about urban heat waves and relevant health issues, a limited amount of research has investigated the effects of heat vulnerability on heat-related illnesses. This study explores the geographical distribution of heat vulnerability in the city of Austin and Travis County areas of Texas and identifies neighborhoods with a high degree of heat vulnerability and restricted EMS accessibility. We conducted negative binomial regressions to investigate the effects of heat vulnerability on heat-related EMS incidents. Heat-related EMS calls have increased in neighborhoods with more impervious surfaces, Hispanics, those receiving social benefits, people living alone, and the elderly. Higher urban capacity, including efficient road networks, water areas, and green spaces, is likely to reduce heat-related EMS incidents. This study provides data-driven evidence to help planners prioritize vulnerable locations and concentrate local efforts on addressing heat-related health concerns.
Inside-Out Meniscal Repair: Still a Useful Technique
Authors: Tebourbi Anis , Triki Rami , Nefiss Mouadh , Bousrih Anis , Bouzidi Ramzi
Published: September 2022

Background:

New generation of all-inside meniscal repair devices are now the preferred repairing method for most orthopedic surgeons. The economic considerations in low-income countries make routine use of these devices very difficult. The inside-out technique described by Charles Henning in the 1980s, which is considered as the gold standard by many expert surgeons, can solve this problem with equal results.

Indications:

Indications are large and unstable tears localized in the middle and posterior thirds of both menisci.

Surgical Technique:

We introduced a slight modification to the original technique, allowing the use of a resorbable suture thread. After a good exposition of the lesion and debridement of the margins, a canulated needle with curved tip (Menghini needle) is introduced through the opposite portal to the repaired meniscus. The first passage of the needle is done on the peripheric side of the tear to protect neurovascular structures; posteromedial or posterolateral security approaches are made to control the capsular exit of the needle. A popliteal retractor is placed to keep the articular capsule exposed. A polydioxanone (PDS) suture thread is passed through the needle and retrieved by the assistant. The needle is then pulled out in the joint and reintroduced on the inner part of the tears producing a vertical mattress suture. The second limb of the PDS is retrieved by the assistant, and a knot is tied on the capsular side of the knee. Sutures are placed on the femoral and the tibial side of the meniscus to produce a good reduction and a stable fixation of the lesion. Full range of motion of the knee is allowed at 6 weeks postoperatively.

Results:

Between January 2017 and June 2020, 33 bucket-handle meniscal tears were repaired. Associated anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction was done in 17 cases. The average International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score jumped from 49.6 to 86.2. We had a short-term success rate of 91%. Recent literature review showed equivalent results with new all-inside repairing devices.

Conclusion:

Despite some disadvantages as being time-consuming, the need of security approaches, and the need of a trained assistant, inside-out meniscal repair remains a reliable technique offering good results.
Polynomial superlevel set representation of the multistationarity region of chemical reaction networks
Authors: Sadeghimanesh AmirHosein , England Matthew
Published: September 2022

In this paper we introduce a new representation for the multistationarity region of a reaction network, using polynomial superlevel sets. The advantages of using this polynomial superlevel set representation over the already existing representations (cylindrical algebraic decompositions, numeric sampling, rectangular divisions) is discussed, and algorithms to compute this new representation are provided. The results are given for the general mathematical formalism of a parametric system of equations and so may be applied to other application domains.
Liquid biopsy using ascitic fluid and pleural effusion supernatants for genomic profiling in gastrointestinal and lung cancers
Authors: Wu Huita , Ji Haonan , Yang Wenhui , Zhang Min , Guo Yifang , Li Bangkai , Wang Jiayin , Chen Rongrong , Chen Yuan , Wang Xin
Published: September 2022

Background

Precision medicine highlights the importance of incorporating molecular genetic testing into standard clinical care. Next-generation sequencing can detect cancer-specific gene mutations, and molecular-targeted drugs can be designed to be effective for one or more specific gene mutations. For patients with special site metastases, it is particularly important to use appropriate samples for genetic profiling. This study aimed to determine whether genomic profiling using ASC and PE is effective in detecting genetic mutations.

Methods

Tissues, plasma, ascites (ASC) supernatants, and pleural effusion (PE) samples from gastrointestinal cancer patients with peritoneal metastasis and lung cancer patients with pleural metastasis were collected for comprehensive genomic profiling. The samples were subjected to next-generation sequencing using a panel of 59 or 1021 cancer-relevant genes panel.

Results

A total of 156 tissues, 188 plasma samples, 45 ASC supernatants, and 1 PE samples from 304 gastrointestinal cancer patients and 446 PE supernatants, 122 tissues, 389 plasma samples, and 45 PE sediments from 407 lung cancer patients were analyzed. The MSAF was significantly higher in ASC and PE supernatant than that in plasma ctDNA (50.00% vs. 3.00%, p < 0.0001 and 28.5% vs. 1.30%, p < 0.0001, respectively). The ASC supernatant had a higher actionable mutation rate and more actionable alterations than the plasma ctDNA in 26 paired samples. The PE supernatant had a higher total actionable mutation rate than plasma (80.3% vs. 48.4%, p < 0.05). The PE supernatant had a higher frequency of uncommon variations than the plasma regardless of distant organ metastasis.

Conclusion

ASC and PE supernatants could be better alternative samples when tumor tissues are not available, especially in patients with only peritoneal or pleural metastases.
Age-specific associations with dental caries in HIV-infected, exposed but uninfected and HIV-unexposed uninfected children in Nigeria
Authors: Akhigbe Paul , Chukwumah Nneka M. , Folayan Morenike Oluwatoyin , Divaris Kimon , Obuekwe Ozoemene , Omoigberale Augustine , Jedy-Agba Elima , Kim Michael , Charurat Manhattan E. , Richards Vincent P. , Coker Modupe O.
Published: September 2022

Background

HIV infection and its management confer a substantial health burden to affected individuals and have been associated with increased risk of oral and dental diseases. In this study, we sought to quantify HIV-associated differences in the prevalence and severity of dental caries in the primary and permanent dentition of 4–11-year-old Nigerian Children.

Methods

We used clinical, laboratory, demographic, and behavioral data obtained from an ongoing cohort study of age-matched HIV-infected (HI, n = 181), HIV-exposed-but-uninfected (HEU, n = 177), and HIV-unexposed-and-uninfected (HUU, n = 186) children. Measures of dental caries experience (i.e., prevalence and severity) were based on dmft/DMFT indices recorded by trained and calibrated clinical examiners. Differences in primary and permanent dentition caries experience between HI, HEU, and HUU were estimated using multivariable logistic and negative binomial regression modeling.

Results

HI children had significantly higher caries experience (33%) compared to HEU (15%) and HUU (22%) children. This difference persisted in fully adjusted analyses [odds ratio (OR) = 1.6; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.0–2.6], was most pronounced in the permanent dentition (OR = 3.4; 95% CI = 1.2–9.5), and mirrored differences in caries severity. While molars were predominantly affected in both primary and permanent dentitions, caries lesion patterns differed between dentitions. Caries severity was significantly associated with hypoplastic primary teeth, gingival inflammation, and lower CD4 counts.

Conclusions

We found that the higher prevalence and severity of dental caries among HI children was driven by increased burden of permanent dentition caries compared to their uninfected counterparts. The dentition-specific associations identified in this study highlight the need to design and implement age-specific caries prevention strategies. These may include intensified oral hygiene regimens aimed at mitigating the cariogenic impact of hyposalivation among HI children. Similarly, the long-lasting impacts of developmental defects of the enamel in the primary and permanent dentitions must not be ignored.
Causes of adverse events in home mechanical ventilation: a nursing perspective
Authors: Lipprandt Myriam , Liedtke Wenke , Langanke Martin , Klausen Andrea , Baumgarten Nicole , Röhrig Rainer
Published: September 2022

Background

Adverse events (AE) are ubiquitous in home mechanical ventilation (HMV) and can jeopardise patient safety. One particular source of error is human interaction with life-sustaining medical devices, such as the ventilator. The objective is to understand these errors and to be able to take appropriate action. With a systematic analysis of the hazards associated with HMV and their causes, measures can be taken to prevent damage to patient health.

Methods

A systematic adverse events analysis process was conducted to identify the causes of AE in intensive home care. The analysis process consisted of three steps. 1) An input phase consisting of an expert interview and a questionnaire. 2) Analysis and categorisation of the data into a root-cause diagram to help identify the causes of AE. 3) Derivation of risk mitigation measures to help avoid AE.

Results

The nursing staff reported that patient transportation, suction and tracheostomy decannulation were the main factors that cause AE. They would welcome support measures such as checklists for care activities and a reminder function, for e.g. tube changes. Risk mitigation measures are given for many of the causes listed in the root-cause diagram. These include measures such as device and care competence, as well as improvements to be made by the equipment providers and manufacturers. The first step in addressing AE is transparency and an open approach to errors and near misses. A systematic error analysis can prevent patient harm through a preventive approach.

Conclusion

Risks in HMV were identified based on a qualitative approach. The collected data was systematically mapped onto a root-cause diagram. Using the root-cause diagram, some of the causes were analysed for risk mitigation. For manufacturers, caregivers and care services requirements for intervention offers the possibility to create a checklist for particularly risky care activities.
Geochemistry and microbiology of tropical serpentine soils in the Santa Elena Ophiolite, a landscape-biogeographical approach
Authors: Solano-Arguedas Agustín F. , Boothman Christopher , Newsome Laura , Pattrick Richard A. D. , Arguedas-Quesada Daniel , Robinson Clare H. , Lloyd Jonathan R.
Published: September 2022

The Santa Elena Ophiolite is a well-studied ultramafic system in Costa Rica mainly comprised of peridotites. Here, tropical climatic conditions promote active laterite formation processes, but the biogeochemistry of the resulting serpentine soils is still poorly understood. The aim of this study was to characterize the soil geochemical composition and microbial community of contrasting landscapes in the area, as the foundation to start exploring the biogeochemistry of metals occurring there. The soils were confirmed as Ni-rich serpentine soils but differed depending on their geographical location within the ophiolite area, showing three serpentine soil types. Weathering processes resulted inmountainsoils rich in trace metals such as cobalt, manganese and nickel. The lowlands showed geochemical variations despite sharing similar landscapes: theinner ophiolite lowlandsoils were more like the surrounding mountain soils rather than thenorth lowlandsoils at the border of the ophiolite area, and within the same riparian basin, concentrations of trace metals were higher downstream towards the mangrove area. Microbial community composition reflected the differences in geochemical composition of soils and revealed potential geomicrobiological inputs to local metal biogeochemistry: iron redox cycling bacteria were more abundant in the mountain soils, while more manganese-oxidizing bacteria were found in the lowlands, with the highest relative abundance in the mangrove areas. The fundamental ecological associations recorded in the serpentine soils of the Santa Elena Peninsula, and its potential as a serpentinization endemism hotspot, demonstrate that is a model site to study the biogeochemistry, geomicrobiology and ecology of tropical serpentine areas.

Graphical Abstract
Team IHMC at the 2020 Cybathlon: a user-centered approach towards personal mobility exoskeletons
Authors: Peterson Brandon , Daniel Mark , Subra Mani Vishnu , Arnold Brooke , Craig Travis , Gines Jeremy , Gonzalez Carlos , Howell William , Shrewsbury Brandon , Bellman Matthew , Neuhaus Peter , Griffin Robert
Published: September 2022

Background

The past few decades have seen rapid advancements in exoskeleton technology, with a considerable shift towards applications involving users with gait pathologies. Commercial devices from ReWalk, Ekso Bionics, and Indego, mainly designed for rehabilitation purposes, have inspired the development of many research platforms aimed at extending capabilities for use as safe and effective personal mobility devices. The 2016 Cybathlon featured an impressive demonstration of exoskeletons designed to enable mobility for individuals with spinal cord injury, however, not a single team completed every task and only two completed the stairs. Major improvements were showcased at the 2020 Cybathlon, with seven of the nine teams completing a similar set of tasks. Team IHMC built upon its silver-medal success from 2016 with an upgraded device, Quix.

Methods

Quix features several notable improvements including an additional powered degree of freedom for hip ab/adduction to laterally shift the device and reduce user effort while walking, custom-tailored cuffs and soft goods based on 3D body scans to optimize user comfort, and a streamlined testing pipeline for online tuning of gait parameters.

Results

Team IHMC finished in fourth place behind the teams from EPFL and Angel Robotics. Although we suffered from a considerably slower flat-ground walking speed, our pilot reported marked improvements in overall effort, comfort, and ease-of-use compared to our previous device.

Conclusions

Clear progress in exoskeleton development has been exhibited since the inaugural Cybathlon, with tasks involving rough terrain, stairs, and ramps now posing little threat to most of the competitors. As a result, the layout of the powered exoskeleton course will likely undergo significant modifications to further push the devices towards suitability for personal everyday use. The current tasks do not address the issue of donning and doffing, nor do they simulate a scenario similar to maneuvering a kitchen to prepare a meal, for example. An additional limitation that may be more difficult to test in a competition setting is the required upper-body effort to manipulate the device in an effective manner.
Targeted AntiBiotics for Chronic pulmonary diseases (TARGET ABC): can targeted antibiotic therapy improve the prognosis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa-infected patients with chronic pulmonary obstructive disease, non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, and asthma? A multicenter, randomized, controlled, open-label trial
Authors: Eklöf Josefin , Alispahic Imane Achir , Sivapalan Pradeesh , Wilcke Torgny , Seersholm Niels , Armbruster Karin , Kjærgaard Jakob Lyngby , Saeed Mohamad Isam , Nielsen Thyge Lynghøj , Browatzki Andrea , Overgaard Rikke Holmen , Fenlev Camilla Sund , Harboe Zitta Barella , Andreassen Helle Frost , Lapperre Therese Sophie , Pedersen Lars , Johnsen Stine , Ulrik Charlotte Suppli , Janner Julie , Moberg Mia , Heidemann Maria , Weinreich Ulla Møller , Vijdea Roxana , Linde Hans , Titlestad Ingrid , Johansson Sofie Lock , Rosenvinge Flemming Schønning , Østergaard Christian , Ghathian Khaled Saoud Ali , Gundersen Lise , Christensen Christina Wellendorph , Bangsborg Jette , Jensen Torben Tranborg , Sørensen Vibeke Muff , Ellingsgaard Thilde , Datcu Raluca , Coia John Eugenio , Bodtger Uffe , Jensen Jens Ulrik Stæhr
Published: September 2022

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection is seen in chronic pulmonary disease and is associated with exacerbations and poor long-term prognosis. However, evidence-based guidelines for the management and treatment of P. aeruginosa infection in chronic, non-cystic fibrosis (CF) pulmonary disease are lacking. The aim of this study is to investigate whether targeted antibiotic treatment against P. aeruginosa can reduce exacerbations and mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), non-CF bronchiectasis, and asthma.

Methods

This study is an ongoing multicenter, randomized, controlled, open-label trial. A total of 150 patients with COPD, non-CF bronchiectasis or asthma, and P. aeruginosa-positive lower respiratory tract samples will be randomly assigned with a 1:1 ratio to either no antibiotic treatment or anti-pseudomonal antibiotic treatment with intravenous beta-lactam and oral ciprofloxacin for 14 days. The primary outcome, analyzed with two co-primary endpoints, is (i) time to prednisolone and/or antibiotic requiring exacerbation or death, in the primary or secondary health sector, within days 20–365 from study allocation and (ii) days alive and without exacerbation within days 20–365 from the study allocation.

Discussion

This trial will determine whether targeted antibiotics can benefit future patients with chronic, non-CF pulmonary disease and P. aeruginosa infection in terms of reduced morbidity and mortality, thus optimizing therapeutic approaches in this large group of chronic patients.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03262142. Registered on August 25, 2017.
Simultaneous analysis of two drugs used as supportive treatment for COVID-19: comparative statistical studies and analytical ecological appraisal
Authors: Ibrahim Hany , El-Abassy Omar M , Abdellatef Hisham Ezzat , Hendawy Hassan A. M. , El-Sayed Heba M
Published: September 2022

Pharmaceutical quality control products (QC) demand quick, sensitive, and cost-effective methods to ensure high production at a low cost. Green analytical methods are also becoming more common in pharmaceutical research to cut down on the amount of waste that goes into the environment. Meclizine hydrochloride (MZH) and pyridoxine hydrochloride (PYH) are reported to be excellent for calming down COVID-19. As a result, the amount of MZH and PYH manufactured by multinational pharmaceutical organizations has increased considerably during the last several months. The present work proposes three environmentally friendly, straightforward, and sensitive spectrophotometric procedures for quantification of MZH in the presence of PYH in a pure and marketable formulations. The approaches under examination include ratio subtraction (RSM), induced dual wavelength (IDW), and Fourier self-deconvolution (FSD). PYH, on the other hand, was directly quantified at 290 nm. For both drugs, the procedures follow Beer’s law in the range of (5–50 µg/mL). The RSM, IDW, and FSD methods, as well as the zero-order approach for PYH, have all been verified in accordance with ICH standards. The ecological value of established methodologies was determined using four distinct ways: the national environmental methods index (NEMI), the analytical Eco-scale, the Analytical Greenness Metric (AGREE), and the green analytical process index (GAPI). Comparing the findings to those of the previously described spectrophotometric technique, no major changes were identified.
Parasitic strongyle nemabiome communities in wild ruminants in Sweden
Authors: Halvarsson Peter , Baltrušis Paulius , Kjellander Petter , Höglund Johan
Published: September 2022

Background

Wildlife hosts may serve as reservoirs for strongyles, which can be transmitted to domestic livestock. Therefore, studies evaluating nemabiome compositions in wildlife ruminants are of great use in assessing the possibility of transmission of important nematode pathogens to domestic sheep in Sweden.

Methods

First, fecal samples were collected from roe deer (n = 125), fallow deer (n = 106), red deer (n = 18) and mouflon (n = 13) in south central Sweden during the hunting season in 2019. Second, after fecal examination samples were cultured and the larvae were harvested, followed by DNA extractions. Third, all samples were barcoded and processed for sequence analysis on the PacBio platform. Finally, bioinformatic sequence analysis was conducted with DADA2, while species diversity and richness, as well as interactions between the different hosts, were calculated and analyzed in R.

Results

Nematode ITS2 sequences were found in 225 of 262 (86%) samples. In total, 31 taxa were identified, among which 26 (86%) to the species level. These were found in different combinations, among which 24 (77%) occurred in roe deer, 19 (61%) in fallow deer, 20 (65%) in red deer and 10 (32%) in mouflon. Five of the species found are known to be associated with livestock (Chabertia ovina, Haemonchus contortus, Oesophagostomum venulosum, Teladorsagia circumcincta and Trichostrongylus axei). However, in the present study the relative abundance and prevalence of most of these species were low. The most striking exception was T. axei, which was relatively abundant in all wildlife hosts. Mostly a wide range of wildlife specific nematodes such as Ostertagia leptospicularis and Spiculopteragia spp. were identified including the invasive nematode Spiculopteragia houdemeri, which was found for the first time in red deer, fallow deer, and mouflon in Sweden. The difference in the number of shared species between mouflon and all cervids (n = 6) was less than among all three cervids (n = 8).

Conclusion

In this study, we investigated the community structure of parasitic intestinal nematodes in four wildlife hosts, and we found that the majority of the parasite species identified were wildlife specific. We also found a new, potentially invasive species not reported before. After comparing the nemabiome of the wildlife hosts in this study with a previous study in sheep from the same geographical region, we conclude that the horizontal transmission potential appears to be relatively low. Still, cross-infections of nematodes between game and sheep cannot be completely ignored.

Graphical Abstract
Guidance on review type selection for health technology assessments: key factors and considerations for deciding when to conduct a de novo systematic review, an update of a systematic review, or an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Kim Joanne S. M. , Pollock Michelle , Kaunelis David , Weeks Laura
Published: September 2022

Background

A systematic review (SR) helps us make sense of a body of research while minimizing bias and is routinely conducted to evaluate intervention effects in a health technology assessment (HTA). In addition to the traditional de novo SR, which combines the results of multiple primary studies, there are alternative review types that use systematic methods and leverage existing SRs, namely updates of SRs and overviews of SRs. This paper shares guidance that can be used to select the most appropriate review type to conduct when evaluating intervention effects in an HTA, with a goal to leverage existing SRs and reduce research waste where possible.

Process

We identified key factors and considerations that can inform the process of deciding to conduct one review type over the others to answer a research question and organized them into guidance comprising a summary and a corresponding flowchart. This work consisted of three steps. First, a guidance document was drafted by methodologists from two Canadian HTA agencies based on their experience. Next, the draft guidance was supplemented with a literature review. Lastly, broader feedback from HTA researchers across Canada was sought and incorporated into the final guidance.

Insights

Nine key factors and six considerations were identified to help reviewers select the most appropriate review type to conduct. These fell into one of two categories: the evidentiary needs of the planned review (i.e., to understand the scope, objective, and analytic approach required for the review) and the state of the existing literature (i.e., to know the available literature in terms of its relevance, quality, comprehensiveness, currency, and findings). The accompanying flowchart, which can be used as a decision tool, demonstrates the interdependency between many of the key factors and considerations and aims to balance the potential benefits and challenges of leveraging existing SRs instead of primary study reports.

Conclusions

Selecting the most appropriate review type to conduct when evaluating intervention effects in an HTA requires a myriad of factors to be considered. We hope this guidance adds clarity to the many competing considerations when deciding which review type to conduct and facilitates that decision-making process.
Construction process and development stages of pandemic emotions questionnaire in cancer patients (PEQ-CP)
Authors: Gangeri Laura , Alfieri Sara , Greco Margherita , Bosisio Marco , Petrigliano Rossella , Murru Luciana , Borreani Claudia
Published: September 2022

Background

Despite the numerous tools built ad hoc to investigate the effects of the CoViD-19 pandemic on people, to date there are no known questionnaires that investigate the emotional experiences of cancer patients. This work aims to start a process of construction and validation of a tool that captures these aspects (Pandemic Emotions Questionnaire in Cancer Patients—PEQ-CP).

Method

A mixed method approach was used through three phases, each on a different sample: Phase 1: creation of items and checking of internal validity, through unstructured interviews and verification of the validity of content by "peers" and "experts"; Phase 2: exploration of the factorial structure of the scale through an exploratory factor analysis (EFA); Phase 3: confirmation of the factorial structure of the scale through a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).

Results

Phase 1 revealed 26 items that can be grouped into 4 theoretical dimensions. "Peers" and "experts" rated all items as understandable and relevant except one, which was reformulated. The EFA in the Phase 2 revealed a factorial structure with 14 items and three dimensions (Emotional Understanding, Communication of Emotions, Feelings the same as others), confirmed by the CFA in Phase 3.

Conclusion

Although further validation steps are required, the PEQ-CP showed good psychometric properties.
Whole genome-wide analysis of DEP family members in sheep (Ovis aries) reveals their potential roles in regulating lactation
Authors: Gai Zhongchao , Hu Songhao , Ma Jun , Wang Yujiao , Gong Guoli , Zhao Jieqiong
Published: September 2022

Background

Sheep milk is an attractive nutritional and functional food source. Some Dishevelled, Egl-10 and pleckstrin (DEP) domain-containing proteins can regulate lactation performance in mammals. However, systematic study of the role of sheep DEP family members in regulating lactation is currently lacking. This study aimed to reveal the roles of sheep DEP family members in lactation by exploring their genetic characteristics and functional features at the whole genome-wide level.

Results

Twenty DEP family members were identified in the sheep genome, and they can be divided into four major groups. Ka/Ks calculations suggest that the purifying selection is the main pressure acting on DEP genes. In the late pregnancy and lactation periods, the expression levels of eight DEP genes exhibited significant differences in the mammary gland. In addition, nutritional conditions have a great influence on the expression of DEP family members, and the DEP gene family underwent more expansion than the average gene family in the early stages of biological evolution. The Mirrortree assays indicated that the DEP family members coevolved in biological evolution.

Conclusions

Our research provides a better understanding of the characters of the DEP domain-containing protein family and their potential roles in regulating lactation in sheep. Moreover, these results of our study may contribute to the genetic improvement of milk performance in dairy sheep breed.

Graphical Abstract
Human-wildlife conflict and community perceptions towards wildlife conservation in and around Wof-Washa Natural State Forest, Ethiopia
Authors: Yazezew Dereje
Published: September 2022

Background

Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) is forecasted to increase globally in the vicinity of protected areas and covers various dimensions. It occurs in several different contexts and involves a range of animal taxonomic groups where the needs and requirements intersect with humans’ needs and development. More often, human-monkey conflict occurs in developing countries and is amongst the main threats to biodiversity conservation in these regions. Grivet monkeys are slender agile monkeys of the genus Cercopithecus. This study was conducted to investigate the status of human grivet monkey conflict and the attitude of local communities towards grivet monkey conservation in and around Wof-Washa Natural State Forest (WWNSF), Ethiopia from September 2017 to May 2018. A questionnaire survey (143 respondents) was used to study the human-grivet monkey conflict and its conservation status.

Results

The majority of respondents (male = 67.1%; female = 74.1%) were not supporting grivet monkey conservation due to the troublesome crop-damaging effect of the animal. Respondents having settlements/farmland nearer to the forest have significantly negative perceptions towards grivet monkey conservation than those far from it. The majority of respondents opined that eradication/relocation of grivet monkeys and financial compensation are the options to mitigate human-grivet monkey conflict. Based on the questionnaire result, 42.5 ± SD 8.68 of respondents in all villages elucidated that the main cause of crop damage by grivet monkeys was habitat degradation.

Conclusion

In the study area, Human-Grivet Monkey Conflict (HGMC) is exacerbated by the encroachment of local communities into the forest area, exploitation of resources that would be used by grivet monkeys, and enhanced crop damage by grivet monkeys. As a result grivet monkeys have been persecuted as a consequence of crop damage. This was due to the negative attitude developed from human perspective. Thus, awareness creation education programs and feasible crop damage prevention techniques need to be implemented.
ESG in the boardroom: evidence from the Malaysian market
Authors: Kamaludin Kamilah , Ibrahim Izani , Sundarasen Sheela , Faizal OVA
Published: September 2022

This study examines the influence of boards’ characteristics with respect to independence, diversity, and diligence on the environment, social, governance (ESG) disclosure among Bursa Malaysia companies. The board characteristics are proxied by the percentage of independent directors, women on the board, and the number of board meetings, respectively. We collected data from all 785 companies listed on the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange. Our final sample consisted of 91 companies that have an ESG disclosure score. Using GLS panel regression analysis, our findings overall indicate that board independence and diversity enhance ESG disclosure practice significantly for companies in all sectors. However, board diligence is related negatively to ESG disclosure. As expected, the significance of the relations among the board characteristics and the ESG disclosures are more profound from 2014 onward, largely because of changes in regulatory requirements. Our study provides new understanding and insights pertaining to the importance of board independence and board diversity on ESG initiatives and disclosures in the Malaysian context. This research complements studies in the areas of sustainability and strategy, and contributes to business practices with respect to the composition of boards of directors.
Drive-train torsional vibration suppression of large scale PMSG-based WECS
Authors: Zhou Feihang
Published: September 2022

This paper provides a systematic analysis of the large scale PMSG (permanent magnet synchronous generator)-based WECS (wind energy conversion system) torsional vibration problem under MPPT (maximum power point tracking) control and constant power control. This is from the perspective of SSO (sub-synchronous oscillation), SSH (sub-synchronous harmonics) and forced torsional vibration. The cause of SSO is the negative total system damping, weakened by the constant power control. The system is susceptible to inducing SSH in the grid current and voltage in the under-damped condition. To effectively suppress the torsional vibration of PMSG-based WECS, a stiffness compensation control strategy based on adaptive damping is proposed. The results show that SSO, SSH and the forced torsional vibration can be suppressed at the source using the proposed suppression strategy.
Tricuspidization technique with reimplantation for a bicuspid aortic valve: a case report
Authors: Hohri Yu , Numata Satoshi , Okita Yutaka , Yaku Hitoshi
Published: September 2022

Background

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is the most frequent congenital cardiac anomaly. We report a successful case in which the tricuspidization technique with valve-sparing aortic root replacement was used for BAV with severe aortic regurgitation.

Case presentation

A 22-year-old man was admitted for progressively worsening aortic regurgitation due to a congenital BAV. Preoperative examination revealed annuloaortic ectasia and left ventricular dilatation with worsening ejection fraction. The right and left coronary cusps of the aortic valve were fused with severe prolapse. During surgery, as there was no obvious calcification or degeneration of each coronary cusp and the commissural orientation was nearly 120°, we judged that tricuspid reconstruction was preferable. Neo-left and right commissure reconstruction by raphe suspension and free margin resuspension of the non-coronary cusp were performed with valve-sparing aortic root replacement (reimplantation technique). Postoperatively, the coaptation height of each coronary cusp was remarkably increased, and aortic regurgitation and left ventricular function improved. The patient was discharged 12 days postoperatively without any complications.

Conclusions

The tricuspidization technique with valve-sparing aortic root replacement was a valuable strategy for repairing the bicuspid valve (type I) with severe aortic valve regurgitation. Although we believe that our tricuspidization technique has the potential for good durability, further experience is warranted to confirm the safety and efficacy of this technique.
Importance of gradual induction in oral anticoagulation therapy in a patient with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia with a left ventricular assist device: a case report
Authors: Morimoto Kenichi , Yoshikawa Yasushi , Kishimoto Yuichiro , Onohara Takeshi , Nishimura Motonobu
Published: September 2022

Background

We encountered a case of a patient with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) who developed multiple thromboses following implantable left ventricular assist device (iLVAD) implantation. We herein report this case along with a literature-based discussion on the timing of warfarin initiation for such patients.

Case presentation

A 15-year-old boy was rushed to our hospital due to cardiogenic shock associated with multiple organ dysfunction. A detailed examination, including cardiac catheterization and right heart biopsy, provided a diagnosis of dilated cardiomyopathy, for which an iLVAD placement as a bridge to cardiac transplantation was scheduled after the transplant workup. Three days before the surgery, the patient’s platelet count decreased drastically from 110,000 to 40,000/µL, suggesting HIT, and his blood sample was sent to a specialized laboratory outside our hospital. The HIT antibody test came back positive during the iLVAD implantation using heparin. Thus, we chose argatroban over heparin for postoperative anticoagulation therapy, which was initiated 6 h after the surgery. The day after surgery, the patient was successfully weaned off mechanical ventilation and extubated. Oral anticoagulation therapy with warfarin was also initiated; however, on postoperative day 2, contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed multiple thrombi in the left iliac artery, right iliac vein, and right jugular vein. We suspected hypercoagulation associated with the initiation of warfarin, prompting us to suspend warfarin and continue anticoagulation therapy with argatroban alone. On postoperative day 8, the patient’s platelet count increased to 130,000/µL despite not reaching the normal range and showed two consecutive increases; therefore, we resumed oral warfarin, concerning the efficacy of argatroban as an anticoagulant for iLVAD. Thromboembolism did not recur; the patient was discharged 50 days after the operation and is currently awaiting heart transplantation.

Conclusions

We encountered a case of HIT type II in which multiple thromboses occurred following iLVAD implantation. If HIT antibodies are detected, it is crucial to initiate argatroban monotherapy and wait to start oral anticoagulation therapy with warfarin until platelet count has improved.
Identification of flow units using the gas flow experiments and static data in heterogeneous oolitic reservoirs of the Puguang gas field
Authors: Chen Xuan , Gao Yang , Bao Dian , Zhang Liping , Su Yaxian , Zhang Jixi
Published: September 2022

Identification of flow units in heterogeneous carbonate reservoirs is challengeable. The core wells, thin section, physical property measurements, and logging data from Feixianguan (Triassic) oolitic reservoirs of the Puguang gas field are studied in detail. Three pore types are identified: intergranular pore (Inter-P), intergranular and intragranular pore (Inter-Intra-P), and intragranular pore (Intra-P). There is a discrete correlation between porosity and permeability, but a relatively good linear relationship between Inter-P and Inter-Intra-P pore types. Combining the method with flow experiments, a new method for flow unit identification based on the flow experiments under simulated reservoir conditions is developed. The flow capability index (FCI) obtained from flow experiments can directly reflect the varieties of gas flow behavior in different reservoirs and can distinguish flow unit types. From the experiment results of 20 cylinder samples, similar FCI values are considered to be the same flow unit; meanwhile, the FCI, reservoir quality index (RQI), and permeability thresholds are obtained from related crossplots, thereby dividing four types of flow units and their thresholds. The RQI prediction formula is established by interpreting the measured physical property data and related logging data in Inter-P and Inter-Intra-P. The flow unit identification of coring well using predicted RQI and measured RQI is close to the observed results, especially in FU1 and FU3. This finds that the combination of the gas flow experiments and static data can effectively support flow unit identification and reservoir division in the Puguang gas field.
Brown to White Fat Transition Overlap With Skeletal Muscle During Development of Larger Mammals: Is it a Coincidence?
Authors: Pani Sunil , Dey Suchanda , Pati Benudhara , Senapati Unmod , Bal Naresh C
Published: September 2022

In mammals, adipose tissues and skeletal muscles (SkMs) play a major role in the regulation of energy homeostasis. Recent studies point to a possibility of dynamic interplay between these 2 sites during development that has pathophysiological implications. Among adipose depots, brown adipose tissue (BAT) is the major energy-utilizing organ with several metabolic features that resemble SkM. Both organs are highly vascularized, innervated, and rich in mitochondria and participate in defining the whole-body metabolic rate. Interestingly, in large mammals BAT depots undergo a striking reduction and concomitant expansion of white adipose tissue (WAT) during postnatal development that shares temporal and molecular overlap with SkM maturation. The correlation between BAT to WAT transition and muscle development is not quite apparent in rodents, the predominantly used animal model. Therefore, the major aim of this article is to highlight this process in mammals with larger body size. The developmental interplay between muscle and BAT is closely intertwined with sexual dimorphism that is greatly influenced by hormones. Recent studies have pointed out that sympathetic inputs also determine the relative recruitment of either of the sites; however, the role of gender in this process has not been studied. Intriguingly, higher BAT content during early postnatal and pubertal periods positively correlates with attainment of better musculature, a key determinant of good health. Further insight into this topic will help in detailing the developmental overlap between the 2 seemingly unrelated tissues (BAT and SkM) and design strategies to target these sites to counter metabolic syndromes.
Anna May Wong and Sessue Hayakawa: Racial Performance, Ornamentalism, and Yellow Voices in Daughter of the Dragon (1931)
Authors: Peng Xin
Published: September 2022

This article provides a comparative study of Anna May Wong and Sessue Hayakawa—the two most iconic stars of Asian descent of American cinema's silent era—by examining the reception history around their rare collaboration, the early sound film and yellow peril thriller Daughter of the Dragon (dir. Lloyd Corrigan, US, 1931). The on-screen collision of these two stars associated with the imaginary East reveals incongruities between a homogeneous Orientalist image and heterogeneous—culturally acquired, professionally trained, mechanically reproduced, and gendered—yellow voices. Situating the star personae of Wong and Hayakawa in the geopolitical environments of the interwar era, the essay foregrounds the plasticity of voice as a form of cultural capital fetishized as an exchangeable commodity through the heavily marketed product of the new sound cinema. In this case study, the accented voice serves also as a contact point between European, American, and Asian film industries. A close analysis of the differently accented yellow voices in Daughter of the Dragon demonstrates the artificial homogeneity of the Orient embodied by the supposedly “authentic” stars of Asian descent and complicates the established configurations of the gendered “Orientals”: the Janus-faced Japanese man and the ornamentalist yellow woman.
“All Your Faves Are Problematic”: The Performative Spectatorship of Drunk Feminist Films
Authors: MacDonald Shana
Published: September 2022

This article looks at the work of the Drunk Feminist Film (DFF) collective from Toronto, Canada. DFF screenings offer interactive in-person and online events that combine watching popular Hollywood films with simultaneous live commentary, audience participation, and hashtag dialogs on Twitter. The article looks specifically at how the multiplatform hybridity of online and embodied participation allows feminist audiences to create collective spectatorial communities. DFF events emphasize paratextual conversation and reimagine how we can relate to movie narratives in the twenty-first century. By looking at a specific screening of The Craft (dir. Andrew Fleming, US, 1996), this article illustrates how DFF indexes the potential of engaging mainstream films while also engaging in feminist conversations about them. Problematic narrative aspects are discussed in real time by a community and are recorded via Twitter, resulting in digitally archived debates about how audiences collaboratively reinvent difficult but popular myths within their favorite films. As a result, the collective decenters mainstream films in favor of paratextual ephemera that negotiate the audience's pleasure in and critique of their favorite films.
Nomenclature
Authors: Brand Dionne , Sharpe Christina
Published: September 2022

Spanning almost four decades, Dionne Brand’s poetry has given rise to whole new grammars and vocabularies. With a profound alertness that is attuned to this world and open to some other, possibly future, time and place, Brand’s ongoing labors of witness and imagination speak directly to where and how we live and reach beyond those worlds, their enclosures, and their violences.

Nomenclature: New and Collected Poems begins with a new long poem, the titular Nomenclature for the Time Being, in which Dionne Brand’s diaspora consciousness dismantles our quotidian disasters. In addition to this searing new work, Nomenclature collects eight volumes of Brand’s poetry published between 1982 and 2010 and includes a critical introduction by the literary scholar and theorist Christina Sharpe.

Nomenclature: New and Collected Poems features the searching and centering cantos of Primitive Offensive; the sharp musical conversations of Winter Epigrams and Epigrams to Ernesto Cardenal in Defense of Claudia; and the documentary losses of revolutions in Chronicles of the Hostile Sun, in which “The street was empty/with all of us standing there.” No Language Is Neutral reads language, coloniality, and sexuality as a nexus. Land to Light On writes intimacies and disaffections with nation, while in thirsty a cold-eyed flâneur surveys the workings of the city. In Inventory, written during the Gulf Wars, the poet is “the wars’ last and late night witness,” her job is not to soothe but to “revise and revise this bristling list/hourly.” Ossuaries’ futurist speaker rounds out the collection and threads multiple temporal worlds—past, present, and future.

This masterwork displays Dionne Brand’s ongoing body of thought—trenchant, lyrical, absonant, discordant, and meaning-making. Nomenclature: New and Collected Poems is classic and living, a record of one of the great writers of our age.