bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scientific Innovation for The Sustainable Development of African Agriculture
Authors: Travella Silvia , de Oliveira Dulce , de Buck Sylvie , Lambein Fernand , Ngudi Delphin Diasolua , De Bauw Vanessa , Gheysen Godelieve , Van Montagu Marc , Heijde Marc
Published: September 2021

The African continent has considerable potential to reap the benefits associated with modern agricultural biotechnology. Plant biotechnology and breeding represent an invaluable toolbox to face the challenges of African agriculture, such as food and nutrition security, environment protection, soil fertility, and crop adaptation to new climatic conditions. As Africa has only relatively recently adopted agricultural biotechnology, it has the opportunity to harness the immense knowledge gathered over the last two decades while avoiding some of the difficulties experienced by early adopters. High-level research and education systems together with a specific regulatory framework are critical elements in the development of sustainable biotechnology-based agriculture and industry. The more actors that are involved in Research & Development applied to nutritionally and important local crops, the faster Africa will generate its future African innovators. Here, we discuss the contribution of plant biotechnology to a transformative African agriculture that combines intensification of land productivity and environmental sustainability.
A new species of Expanathura (Crustacea: Isopoda: Anthuroidea) from Iriomote Island, Japan, with a note on male polymorphism
Authors: SHIRAKI SHOKI , SHIMOMURA MICHITAKA , KAKUI KEIICHI
Published: September 2021

We describe Expanathura monile sp. nov. from Iriomote Island, Okinawa, Japan, northwestern Pacific. This species resembles E. collaris, E. macronesia, and E. haddae in having very broad uropodal rami, a broad telson, and a moderately shortened pleopod 1 endopod, but differs from these three species in the female having (1) the head with a dorsal V-shaped band of brown pigmentation, (2) the antennular flagellum with 3–4 articles, (3) antennal peduncular article 2 with an outer triangular projection, (4) the uropodal endopod longer than wide, (5) the uropodal exopod with an acute triangular projection, (6) an oval telson, and (7) the posterolateral setae on the telson similar in length. We present a revised key to known species in the genus Expanathura and briefly discuss the male polymorphism observed in E. monile.
Two Distinct Types of 10-30-day Persistent Heavy Rainfall Events over the Yangtze River Valley
Authors: Cheng Yifeng , Wang Lu , Li Tim
Published: September 2021

Large-scale circulation anomalies associated with 10-30-day filtered persistent heavy rainfall events (PHREs) over the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River Valley (MLYV) in boreal summer for the period of 1961-2017 were investigated. Two distinct types of PHREs were identified based on configurations of anomalies in western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) and South Asian High (SAH) during the peak wet phase. One type named as PSAH is characterized by eastward extension of the SAH while the other named as NSAH is featured by westward retreat of the SAH, and they both exhibit westward extension of the WPSH. Both types of PHREs are dominated by Mei-yu frontal systems. The lower-level circulation anomalies play a crucial role in initiating rainfall but through different processes. Prior to rainfall occurrence, a strong anticyclonic circulation anomaly is over the western North Pacific (WNP) for the PSAH events and the related southwesterly wind anomaly prevails over the south-eastern China, which advects moisture into the MLYV, moistens the boundary layer, and induces atmospheric convective instability. For the NSAH events, the WNP anticyclonic circulation is weak while a strong northerly wind is observed north of the MLYV. It brings cold air mass southward, favoring initiating frontal rainfall over the MLYV. The formation of upper-level circulation anomalies over the MLYV is primarily due to the shift of anomalous circulations from mid-high latitudes. After the rainfall generation, the precipitation would influence the lower- and upper-level circulation anomalies.
Sequenced Crop Evapotranspiration and Water Requirement in Developing a Multitrigger Rainfall Index Insurance and Risk-Contingent Credit
Authors: Ndegwa Michael K. , Shee Apurba , Turvey Calum , You Liangzhi
Published: September 2021

Weather index insurance (WII) has been a promising innovation that protects smallholder farmers against drought risks and provides resilience against adverse rainfall conditions. However, the uptake of WII has been hampered by high spatial and intraseasonal basis risk. To minimize intraseasonal basis risk, the standard approaches to designing WII based on seasonal cumulative rainfall have been shown to be ineffective in some cases because they do not incorporate different water requirements across each phenological stage of crop growth. One of the challenges in incorporating crop phenology in insurance design is to determine the water requirement in crop growth stages. Borrowing from agronomy, crop science, and agrometeorology, we adopt evapotranspiration methods in determining water requirements for a crop to survive in each stage that can be used as a trigger level for a WII product. Using daily rainfall and evapotranspiration data, we illustrate the use of Monte Carlo risk modeling to price an operational WII and WII-linked credit product. The risk modeling approach that we develop includes incorporation of correlation between rainfall and evapotranspiration indices that can minimize significant intertemporal basis risk in WII.
The conviviality of the overpoliced, detained and expelled: Refusing race and salvaging the human at the borders of Britain
Authors: Noronha Luke de
Published: September 2021

Paul Gilroy’s theorisation of conviviality has proved exceptionally generative in (urban) sociology. But any announcement of a ‘convivial turn’ should be approached with caution. In much of the literature on ‘everyday multiculture’, racism is insufficiently theorised, structural relations of hierarchy and inequality fade from view, and culture loses its unruly potential. This article seeks to rethink and reclaim the radical potential of conviviality, by working with the narratives of people deported from the UK to Jamaica. The article first argues that the social and political implications of conviviality can be better registered when placed in relation to state violence and state racism. The article then analyses the accounts of deported people who show that conviviality is about much more than getting along across difference, but can represent a wider ethics of ‘refusing race and salvaging the human’. Indeed, when people subject to extraordinary forms of state racism – overpoliced, detained and then expelled – still reject all defensive investments in racial categories, proving themselves not only against racism but ‘against race’, they reassert the normative, ethical and prefigurative character of convivial cultures.
What Goes Up Might Not Come Down: Modeling Directional Asymmetry with Large-N, Large-T Data
Authors: Thombs Ryan P. , Huang Xiaorui , Fitzgerald Jared Berry
Published: September 2021

Modeling asymmetric relationships is an emerging subject of interest among sociologists. York and Light advanced a method to estimate asymmetric models with panel data, which was further developed by Allison. However, little attention has been given to the large- N, large- T case, wherein autoregression, slope heterogeneity, and cross-sectional dependence are important issues to consider. The authors fill this gap by conducting Monte Carlo experiments comparing the bias and power of the fixed-effects estimator to a set of heterogeneous panel estimators. The authors find that dynamic misspecification can produce substantial biases in the coefficients. Furthermore, even when the dynamics are correctly specified, the fixed-effects estimator will produce inconsistent and unstable estimates of the long-run effects in the presence of slope heterogeneity. The authors demonstrate these findings by testing for directional asymmetry in the economic development–CO2 emissions relationship, a key question in macro sociology, using data for 66 countries from 1971 to 2015. The authors conclude with a set of methodological recommendations on modeling directional asymmetry.
Nonasthmatic Churg–Strauss syndrome superimposed on chronic pyelonephritis: a case report
Authors: Kezić Aleksandra , Ristić Stojanka , Životić Maja , Marković-Lipkovski Jasmina , Kovačević Svetlana , Naumović Radomir , Ležaić Višnja
Published: September 2021

Churg–Strauss syndrome (CSS) is a granulomatous small-vessel vasculitis. Asthma is seen in the majority of patients with CSS, but atypical nonasthmatic forms of CSS are also being recognized. We herein describe a 67-year-old woman with a history of chronic pyelonephritis and drug allergy reactions who was admitted to our hospital because of worsening renal function preceded by fever, purpura, sinusitis, and a positive urine culture that confirmed a urinary infection. She was initially treated with pipemidic acid for 7 days, followed by clarithromycin for sinusitis. Laboratory tests on admission showed an absolute eosinophil count of 1750 cells/µL and serum creatinine concentration of 4.72 mg/dL. Urine and blood cultures showed no growth. Kidney biopsy revealed crescent formations with diffuse interstitial fibrosis and foci of eosinophil infiltration. An atypical form of CSS was diagnosed based on tissue eosinophilia, peripheral eosinophilia, and sinusitis. Intravenous methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide pulse therapy together with hemodialysis treatment improved the patient’s clinical condition but did not resolve the kidney damage. The onset of an atypical form of CSS in our patient manifested as symptoms and signs mimicking those of chronic pyelonephritis and drug allergy reactions. The patient’s chronic kidney disease finally progressed to dialysis dependence.
Incorporating Instantaneous Reaction Delay in Car-Following Models: A Hybrid Approach
Authors: Rafati Fard Mehdi , Rahmani Saeed , Shariat Mohaymany Afshin
Published: September 2021

Car-following is considered as one of the most prevalent fundamental driving behaviors that substantially influences traffic performance as well as road safety and capacity. Drivers’ car-following behavior is affected by numerous factors. However, in practice, very few of these factors have been scrutinized, because of their latent essence and unavailability of appropriate data. Owing to its importance, drivers’ reaction time has attracted the attention of many researchers; nevertheless, it is considered as a fixed parameter in car-following models, which is far from reality. To take the variability of drivers’ reaction time into account, a flexible hybrid approach has been suggested in the present study. In the proposed structure, in the first step, the desirable acceleration of the driver is estimated by applying an equation-based car-following model. In the next step, the driver’s reaction delay in applying the calculated acceleration is estimated by an artificial neural network. The corresponding parameters are jointly estimated by applying an estimated distribution algorithm. Statistical tests indicate better performance of the hybrid model, which considers the variations of the driver’s reaction time, compared with a traditional model with fixed reaction time. Furthermore, the cross-validation results indicate better generalizability and transferability of the proposed model in action.
Long-Term Recreational Cannabis Use Is Associated With Lower Executive Function and Processing Speed in a Pilot Sample of Older Adults
Authors: Stypulkowski Katie , Thayer Rachel E.
Published: September 2021

More older adults are using cannabis for recreational and/or medical purposes, but most studies examining cognitive function and cannabis use do not include older adults. The current small pilot study sought to compare cognitive function and emotional functioning among adults age 60 and older who were regular, primarily recreational cannabis users ( n = 28) and nonusers ( n = 10). A bimodal distribution was observed among cannabis users such that they had either initiated regular use more recently (“short-term” users; ≤7 years, n = 13) or earlier in life (“long-term” users; ≥19 years, n = 15). Nonusers, short-term, and long-term users were not different in depression, anxiety, or emotion regulation, or alcohol use. Nonusers scored significantly higher than long-term users in executive function. Short-term users scored significantly higher than long-term users in executive function, processing speed, and general cognition. Additionally, greater recent cannabis use frequency was negatively associated with working memory. The current findings suggest that short-term recreational cannabis use does not result in differences in cognitive performance compared to nonusers, which may indicate that short-term use is relatively benign in older adults. However, longer duration of use is associated with poorer processing speed and executive functioning, and more recent cannabis use is associated with poorer working memory, which may impact older adults’ overall cognitive functioning.
Sesamol induces cytotoxicity via mitochondrial apoptosis in SCC-25 cells
Authors: Ezhilarasan D , Ali D , Varghese R
Published: September 2021

Sesamol is the main constituent of sesame seed oil and is obtained from Sesamum indicum. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common neoplasms affecting the oral cavity. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic potentials of sesamol on human oral squamous carcinoma (SCC-25) cells. Human oral squamous carcinoma cells were treated with different concentrations (62.5, 125, and 250 μM/mL) of sesamol for 24 h. Cytotoxicity was analyzed by 3- (4, 5- dimethylthiazol -2- yl) -2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) expression was investigated by dichloro-dihydro-fluorescein diacetate assay. Apoptosis-related morphology was analyzed by acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining. Caspase-9 expression was analyzed by confocal microscopic double immunofluorescence staining. Mitochondrial apoptosis-related markers are analyzed using qPCR. Sesamol treatment caused a significant cytotoxic effect in OSCC cells. Sesamol-induced cytotoxic effect was associated with intracellular ROS generation. Sesamol treatments induced a significant increase in the early and late apoptotic cells. This treatment also induced caspase-9 expression in OSCC cells. Sesamol treatments caused downregulation of Harvey rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (HRAS) expression at protein and gene levels. Sesamol treatment modulates intrinsic apoptotic marker gene expression in OSCC cells. Overall results confirm the anti-cancer potential of sesamol and it seems to be a promising candidate for OSCC.
Linguistic co-creativity and the performance of identity in the discourse of National Trust holiday cottage guestbooks
Authors: Gavins Joanna , Whiteley Sara , Candarli Duygu
Published: September 2021

This article reports on some of the results of a project undertaken by researchers at the University of Sheffield with The National Trust in the UK, which seeks to examine the discourse found in guestbooks located in the Trust’s holiday rental cottages. Our key interests lie in the ways in which holidaymakers perform particular identities through the stylistic choices they make when writing entries in guestbooks, the role linguistic creativity plays in these performances, and the extent to which cognitive-linguistic analysis can help us understand guestbooks as socially and conceptually complex sites of linguistic interaction. Between 2014 and 2018, we collected over 800,000 words of data from 13 holiday cottages in two popular holiday regions in the UK: the Roseland Peninsula in South East Cornwall and the Port Quin area of Northern Cornwall. Our dataset was analysed and tagged using NVivo qualitative coding software, which enables the identification of both linguistic and non-linguistic features of the discourse and makes these items searchable. In the present discussion, we use Text World Theory to explore both the situational context of this discourse, or the ‘discourse-world’, and the conceptual structures, or ‘text-worlds’, which result from linguistic interaction in the minds of participants. We suggest that the unified examination of these two interacting levels of discourse enables a holistic investigation of the pragmatic and conceptual environment which surrounds the production and reception of the guestbook discourse; the linguistic and stylistic features of the texts themselves; and the mental representations that arise from them. In particular, we present a case-study analysis of the guestbooks of Caragloose, a three-bedroomed former farmhouse in South East Cornwall, which our study found to contain levels of linguistic creativity which were exceptional in our dataset. We outline the key stylistic features of this discourse and show how one collective linguistic endeavour in particular in Caragloose fosters an exceptionally experimental style across multiple entries. We reveal how the resulting discourse, although taking place between strangers separated in both time and space, exhibits a density of creativity more commonly associated with collaborative discourse produced between intimates in a face-to-face situation.
The Role of an Inpatient Hospice and Palliative Clinical Pharmacist in the Interdisciplinary Team
Authors: Moody Jetavia Jones , Poon Ivy O. , Braun Ursula K.
Published: September 2021

Palliative care is a specialized health care service for individuals with serious illness at any stage and can be provided in any setting. Current national consensus developed by palliative care experts recommends the inclusion of pharmacists in an interdisciplinary team (IDT) to provide quality palliative care. However, national registry data report that less than 10% of inpatient palliative teams in the U.S. have a clinical pharmacist. Clinical pharmacists have an impactful role in palliative patients’ quality of life by optimizing symptom management, deprescribing, and providing education to the palliative care team as well as patients and their families. In this report, we review the current literature on the role of a palliative pharmacist in an inpatient palliative care setting and compare and contrast this with our own clinical practice, providing case examples about the role of a palliative clinical pharmacist in an interdisciplinary inpatient palliative care setting. Future strategies are needed to increase post-graduate specialized pharmacy residency training in palliative care as well as education on palliative and hospice care in pharmacy schools to support the role of clinical pharmacists in palliative care.
The Correlation Between FGB Promoter Polymorphism and Clotting Function in Patients With Idiopathic Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Han Shengbin , Yang Bin , Feng Yaoyu , Zhao Lingfeng , Feng Qun , Guan Hongxi , Song Donghui , Yin Fang , Zhuang Li
Published: September 2021

To explore the possible single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) sites in the promoter region of fibrinogen B β (FGB), and construct logistic regression model and haplotype model, so as to reveal the influence of FGB promoter SNPs on susceptibility, hemodynamics and coagulation function of lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (LEDVT) in the genetic background. LEDVT patients (120) and healthy people (120) were taken as case and control objects, respectively. SNPs and their genotypes of FGB promoter were detected by promoter sequencing and PCR-RFLP. The parameters of coagulation system were evaluated. There were 6 SNPs in FGB promoter, which were β-148C/T, β-249C/T, β-455G/A, β-854G/A, β-993C/T and β-1420G/A. The genotype and allele frequency of β-1420 G/A, β-455G/A, β-249c/T and β-148C/T were significantly different between the LEDVT group and the control group, but not β-993C/T and β-854G/A. In addition, we found that the higher the content of Fibrinogen (FG), the higher the risk of LEDVT. The risk of LEDVT increased by 4.579 times for every unit increase of fibrinogen. We also found that FG, PT and APTT in LEDVT group were higher than those in control group, while TT was lower than those in control group; Furthermore, there was no significant difference in all coagulation indexes among 6 SNP genotypes in LEDVT group, while a significant difference was found between the 2 genotypes of β-993C/T in the control group. β-993C/T may indirectly affect the susceptibility of LEDVT by improving the basic level of plasma FG.
Femto-assisted versus conventional phacoemulsification differently impact on choroid structure after surgery
Authors: Appolloni Romolo , Viggiano Pasquale , Carrella Maria Luisa , Evangelista Federica , Appolloni Alessandro , Toto Lisa , Mastropasqua Leonardo
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

To report potential choroidal changes in eyes undergoing femtosecond laser cataract surgery (FLACS) and phacoemulsification surgery (PCS) by OCT.

Methods:

The patients were images by means Spectral Domain OCT imaging with EDI technology which may obtain OCT image. We exported a single EDI-OCT scan passing through the fovea and then it was imported into ImageJ program to perform a quantitative analysis.

Main outcome measures:

The main outcome measures were: (i) sub foveal choroidal thickness (SFCT); (ii) the choroidal vascularity index (CVI); and (iii) central retinal thickness (CRT).

Results:

At postoperative 1 week, FLACS group showed an increased CRT (241.2 ± 31.6–245.5 ± 36.4 µm; p = 0.016). Likewise, CVI and SFCT exhibited a slight increase but no statistically differences were highlighted ( p > 0.05). At the follow-up visit of 1 month, all OCT parameters did not display any significant difference ( p > 0.05). At post-operative 1 week, the PCS group displayed a significant increase in CRT, SFCT, and CVI. On the contrary, at the follow-up visit of 1-month, all choroidal parameters were characterized by a no statistically significant reduction ( p > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Our study exhibited a significant increase in CT and CVI in eyes that underwent conventional cataract surgery. Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract extraction did not result in macular change due to less postoperative inflammation.
Treatment of persistent epithelial defects with single-dose autologous serum eye drops
Authors: Özbek-Uzman Selma , Yalnız-Akkaya Züleyha , Şingar Özdemir Evin , Burcu Ayşe
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of single-dose autologous serum eye drops (ASEDs) for treatment of persistent corneal epithelial defects (PEDs).

Methods:

About 34 eyes of 26 patients treated from March 2016 to May 2020 with a single dose of ASEDs for PEDs that did not respond to conventional treatment were retrospectively evaluated. Patient demographics, predisposing factors, size, and duration of the PED, duration of treatment, and dosage of ASEDs, PED healing time, success rate of the ASED treatment, and follow-up time after the onset of ASED treatment were recorded. Autologous serum eye drops (20%) were prepared by diluting the serum with preservative-free artificial tears in single-dose vials. Vials were stored at −20°C and used daily after dissolving.

Results:

The mean patient age was 47.0 ± 18.5 years, and 13 (50%) of the patients were male. The most common indication for ASEDs was PED after keratoplasty. The mean duration of ASED treatment was 8.5 ± 6.3 months, and mean follow-up time was 22.8 ± 12.2 months. Autologous serum eye drop treatment was effective in 25 (73.5%) eyes and partially effective in 5 (14.7%) eyes. None of the eyes displayed complications related to the treatment.

Conclusion:

In patients with PED for whom conservative treatment is insufficient, ASEDs prepared by dilution with preservative-free artificial tears in single-dose vials and administered based on the daily use principle appear to be effective and safe.
Migrant residential concentrations and socio-economic disadvantage in two Australian gateway cities
Authors: Colic-Peisker Val , Peisker Andy
Published: September 2021

This article explores the relationship of residential concentrations of non-Anglophone migrants with socio-economic disadvantage at the suburb (SA2) level. We look at two main Australian gateway cities, Sydney and Melbourne. We use the ‘person-counts’ of the latest available (2016) Australian Census data, matching them with the socio-economic data provided by the Australian Bureau of Statistics ‘socio-economic indexes for areas’ (SEIFA). Our analysis shows that despite decades of careful filtering of migrants for skills and language, socio-economic disadvantage in migrant concentrations persists in the main gateway cities, being more pronounced in Melbourne than in Sydney. The article employs an original quantitative analysis in order to advance the understanding of relationship between ethnicity, socio-economic position and residential location. We seek to contribute to the ongoing scholarly and policy debate about migrant concentration areas in large immigrant-receiving cities.
Effect of housing surface roughness on the performance of a centrifugal compressor for turbocharger: Experimental and numerical study
Authors: Karunakaran Ealumalai , Mulye Sanket , Mallikarjuna Jawali Maharudrappa
Published: September 2021

Centrifugal compressor plays a vital role in the performance of a turbocharger. The compressor contains an impeller and housing, including the vaneless diffuser and a volute. The high-speed flow from the impeller is diffused in the diffuser and volute, before being delivered to the engine. Hence, the housing flow characteristics affect the compressor performance and operating range. Generally, housing has noticeable surface roughness, especially in the volute. This study evaluates the effect of the volute surface roughness on the compressor performance by experimental and numerical analysis. The experiments are conducted for three different volute surface roughness levels to measure the overall compressor pressure ratio and efficiency. The uncertainty in the efficiency for experimental results is within ±0.5% pts. Also, steady-state numerical simulations are performed to analyse the flow mechanisms causing pressure losses. Then, a numerical analysis is done to understand the effect of roughness of the diffuser hub and shroud walls on the compressor performance. From the experimental results, it is found that the increase in the roughness level of the volute from the smooth surface by circa 900% and 1400% shows a significant reduction in the compressor efficiency at the design speed (N) and off-design speeds (0.87 and 1.13 N). The reductions of efficiency are about 0.5%–1% pts at the near surge point, 1%–1.5% pts at the peak efficiency point and 2%–2.5% pts at the near choke flow point. The CFD analyses show significantly higher near-wall turbulence and wall shear resulting in additional pressure losses. Also, it is found that the pressure losses are more sensitive to roughness of the diffuser shroud-wall than that of the hub-wall. On the other hand, the diffuser hub-wall roughness increases the radial momentum in the diffuser passage which suppress the flow separation at low flow rates.
Study on the ignitability of a high-pressure direct-injected methane jet using a diesel pilot, a glow-plug, and a pre-chamber
Authors: Vera-Tudela Walter , Schneider Bruno , Wüthrich Silas , Herrmann Kai
Published: September 2021

Natural gas is a promising alternative fuel for internal combustion engines, it allows for a reduction of engine-out emissions without impairing high engine efficiencies. Although this approach is already utilized from small to large engine classes, it is almost exclusively based on the combustion of a premixed, homogeneous charge. For ignition, small engines use standard spark-plugs or pre-chambers, while large and lean-operated engines use pre-chambers and pilot injections. Direct high-pressure gas injection is a more recent, alternative way to operate gas engines which offers benefits compared to premixed operation such as high compression ratio, high combustion pressures, lean operation, quantity regulation, among others. However, in contrast to diesel direct injection, the compression temperatures are too low for the auto-ignition of the gas jets. Therefore, an additional ignition system is required, usually a pilot injection system is used. In this study, the usability and performance of three ignition strategies for direct injected high-pressure gas jets have been investigated in an optically accessible test-rig that is able to operate at engine-like conditions. The first type of ignition system is a pilot injection with a liquid fuel, the second is a glow-plug located near the main gas jet, and the third system is a pre-chamber with a nozzle hole aimed at the main gas jet. Results show that all three strategies are feasible options under the studied conditions. Ignition by a pilot fuel injection is a safe and reliable way to ignite the main fuel. The glow-plug is less reliable and leads to high cycle-to-cycle variation. The best option in the present study is the pre-chamber, it is very reliable, delivers the highest peak cylinder pressure and exhibits the lowest cyclic variability. The good performance is attributed to the intense mixing of the main gas jet with the hot jet exiting the pre-chamber.
Participatory action research and oral history as natural allies in mental health research
Authors: Calabria Verusca , Bailey Di
Published: September 2021

This article explores the similarities and differences between oral history and participatory action research (PAR) as two qualitative research methods that both accord with an interpretivist paradigm. It examines how combining these two methodologies can benefit mental health research, offering opportunities for reflection and reciprocity. Drawing from the authors’ respective knowledge and experience of using oral history and PAR methods within social care and mental health settings in the UK, the article considers these opportunities in relation to key concepts, namely, the sharing of power, reciprocity and positionality that are inherent in both methodological approaches. The article concludes that PAR-led oral history offers a trans-disciplinary methodology that can offer fresh insights for improving practices and social outcomes and for reducing inequalities.
In Silico Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamic Simulation Analysis of Phytochemicals From Indian Foods as Potential Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 RdRp and 3CLpro
Authors: Qazi Sahar , Das Soumi , Khuntia Bharat Krushna , Sharma Vandna , Sharma Shruti , Sharma Gautam , Raza Khalid
Published: September 2021

With the current pandemic of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in hand, researchers around the globe are dexterously working to find the best suitable drug candidates and overcome vaccination-related challenges, to achieve efficient control over the second surge of COVID-19. The medical consultants time and again have been reiterating the need to abide by the precautionary steps to prevent the spread of the coronavirus by maintaining social distancing when outside, sanitizing hands regularly, and wearing masks and gloves. They also suggest taking a good and hygienic meal so as to boost immunity. Indians have an inborn nature of using natural spices, food, and medicines in their daily lives. Indian researchers have paid heed to deploy compounds from natural sources to explore potential antiviral agents against COVID-19 as the chances of acquiring side effects are perceived as less, and the efficacy of phytochemicals from medicinal plants is sometimes greater when compared to their synthetic counterparts. In the present study, we performed an in silico molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation analysis of screened phytochemicals from a comprehensive list of Ayurvedic herbs/functional foods that are present in natural food products against key receptor proteins of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. We found that Aegle marmelos, Vetiveria zizanoides, Moringaolifera, and Punica granatum have antiviral potential to prevent coronavirus infection in the populace.
Big Data Dreams and Reality in Shenzhen: An Investigation of Smart City Implementation in China
Authors: Große-Bley Jelena , Kostka Genia
Published: September 2021

Chinese cities are increasingly using digital technologies to address urban problems and govern society. However, little is known about how this digital transition has been implemented. This study explores the introduction of digital governance in Shenzhen, one of China's most advanced smart cities. We show that, at the local level, the successful implementation of digital systems faces numerous hurdles in long-standing data management and bureaucratic practices that are at least as challenging as the technical problems. Furthermore, the study finds that the digital systems in Shenzhen entail a creeping centralisation of data that potentially turns lower administrative government units into mere users of the city-level smart platforms rather than being in control of their own data resources. Smart city development and big data ambitions thereby imply shifting stakeholder relations at the local level and also pull non-governmental stakeholders, such as information technology companies and research institutions, closer to new data flows and smart governance systems. The findings add to the discussion of big data-driven smart systems and their implications for governance processes in an authoritarian context.
Immunisation provider experiences with an automated short message service-based active surveillance system for monitoring adverse events following immunisation: A qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Singh Gurkamal , Nesaraj Rachel , Bchara Nicolas , Kop Benjamin , Leeb Alan , Nissen Lisa , Peters Ian , Perry Danae , Salter Sandra , Lee Kenneth
Published: September 2021

Objective

Currently, active surveillance systems to monitor adverse events following immunisation are limited to hospitals, and medical and immunisation clinics. Globally, community pharmacies represent a significant destination for immunisation services. However, until recently, pharmacies lacked active surveillance systems. We therefore wished to explore pharmacists’ experiences with SmartVax: an active surveillance system that has recently been integrated for use in Australian community pharmacies. Specifically, we wished to explore pharmacists’ perceived (1) benefits of using SmartVax, (2) areas for improvement in the system, and (3) issues with future/ongoing access to the system.

Methods

The present study forms the qualitative arm of a convergent mixed-methods pilot study. In the present study, we performed semi-structured interviews with pharmacist immunisers after a 21- to 22-week trial period with SmartVax. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts was performed independently by two researchers in QSR NVivo 12, using the framework method.

Results

Fifteen participants completed the semi-structured interviews. A broad range of perceived benefits were cited by participants, including the usability of SmartVax, the ease of patient follow-up facilitated by the system, and enhancement to the patient–pharmacist relationship. Participants voiced a desire for the system to have more granularity and a faster response time in the report generated for pharmacies. When asked about issues with future/ongoing access to SmartVax, cost concerns of the system were the prevailing theme.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that, among pharmacist immuniser end-users of SmartVax, the system is perceived to be easy-to-use, facilitates patient follow-up, and enhances the patient–pharmacist relationship.
Genetic Referral Patterns and Responses to Clinical Scenarios: A Survey of Primary Care Providers and Clinical Geneticists
Authors: Truong Tina K. , Kenneson Aileen , Rosen Ami R. , Singh Rani H.
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are considered the gatekeepers of genetic services, but they often underutilize or inappropriately utilize such services, leading to lack of early treatment, incorrect diagnoses, and unnecessary procedures. This study aims to delineate PCP referral patterns, including the frequency of, motivators for, and barriers to genetic referrals and testing in the present landscape of genomics.

Methods:

A 34-item online survey was distributed to PCPs in the United States (US). PCP demographics, practice characteristics, and referral patterns, motivators, and barriers were analyzed. Six hypothetical clinical scenarios included in the survey also were presented to a cohort of clinical geneticists. We calculated PCPs’ rates of ordering genetic tests and of referral to genetics services in the past year. Rates and responses to clinical scenarios were compared based on respondents’ personal and practice characteristics.

Results:

A total of 95 PCPs and 25 clinical geneticists participated. Among the PCPs, 79% reported referring and 50% reported ordering genetic testing in the last year. PCPs with genetic counselors (GCs) in their clinic referred at significantly higher rates than those without ( P = .008). White PCPs referred at significantly higher rates compared to Black or African American PCPs ( P = .009). The most commonly reported motivators for referring patients to genetic services were preference for specialist coordination, lack of knowledge, and family’s desire for risk information. The most commonly reported barriers were patient refusal, provider concerns about costs to patients, and uncertainty of when a genetic referral is appropriate. In response to clinical scenarios, clinical geneticists were in agreement about the need for genetic testing or referral for 2 of the scenarios. For these 2 scenarios, only 48% and 71% of PCPs indicated that they would offer genetic testing or referral, respectively.

Conclusions:

Responses to clinical scenarios suggest that it is not clear to PCPs when referrals or testing are needed. Collaboration with GCs is one approach to reducing barriers to and improving PCPs’ utilization of genetic services. Clear guidelines from clinical geneticists may help facilitate appropriate use of genetics services by PCPs. Additional research is needed to further describe barriers that PCPs face in genetic testing/referrals.
The Risk of Nonunion in Smokers Revisited: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nunna Ravi S. , Ostrov Philip B. , Ansari Darius , Dettori Joseph R. , Godolias Periklis , Elias Elias , Tran Angela , Oskouian Rod J. , Hart Robert , Abdul-Jabbar Amir , Jackson Keith L. , Devine John G. , Mehta Ankit I. , Adogwa Owoicho , Chapman Jens R.
Published: September 2021

Study Design

Systemic review and meta-analysis.

Objective

To review and establish the effect of tobacco smoking on risk of nonunion following spinal fusion.

Methods

A systematic search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from inception to December 31, 2020, was conducted. Cohort studies directly comparing smokers with nonsmokers that provided the number of nonunions and fused segments were included. Following data extraction, the risk of bias was assessed using the Quality in Prognosis Studies Tool, and the strength of evidence for nonunion was evaluated using the GRADE working group criteria. All data analysis was performed in Review Manager 5, and a random effects model was used.

Results

Twenty studies assessing 3009 participants, which included 1117 (37%) smokers, met inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis found that smoking was associated with increased risk of nonunion compared to not smoking ≥1 year following spine surgery (RR 1.91, 95% CI 1.56 to 2.35). Smoking was significantly associated with increased nonunion in those receiving either allograft (RR 1.39, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.73) or autograft (RR 2.04, 95% CI 1.54 to 2.72). Both multilevel and single level fusions carried increased risk of nonunion in smokers (RR 2.30, 95% CI 1.64 to 3.23; RR 1.79, 95% CI 1.12 to 2.86, respectively).

Conclusion

Smoking status carried a global risk of nonunion for spinal fusion procedures regardless of follow-up time, location, number of segments fused, or grafting material. Further comparative studies with robust methodology are necessary to establish treatment guidelines tailored to smokers.
Entrepreneurship in the Times of Pandemic: Barriers and Strategies
Authors: Chaturvedi Richa , Karri Ashok
Published: September 2021

Using a mixed method approach, this study investigates the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has posed for entrepreneurs and the strategies that organizations can adopt to make a turnaround towards survival and growth. Empirical analysis is done on the factors which have affected smaller firms during economic slowdowns in the past, and policies and plans adopted by firms to overcome the barriers. Factors such as lockdown, remote working, digital marketing and digitization were accounted through qualitative research. In the empirical analysis section, descriptive statistics and confirmatory factor analysis have been used. In the qualitative section, thematic analysis and hierarchy charts were made with the help of NVivo software. The prime barriers which affected the firms were organizational readiness, infrastructural support by government, technological inadequacy and financial crises. The main strategies emphasized by founders to overcome the barriers of organizational readiness and financial crunch were marketing, strategic networking and product and services, and for technological ineptness was digitization.
Epidemiology of Meniscal Allograft Transplantation at Children’s Hospitals in the United States
Authors: Smith Haley E. , Lyons Madeline M. , Patel Neeraj M.
Published: September 2021

Background:

Meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) was developed with the goal of delaying the progression of degenerative disease in the setting of substantial meniscal deficiency. This may be especially important in children and adolescents; however, there is a paucity of literature on MAT in this population.

Purpose:

To evaluate the epidemiology of MAT at pediatric hospitals in the United States, with specific attention to regional and characteristic trends.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The Pediatric Health Information System, a national database consisting of 49 children’s hospitals, was queried for all patients younger than 25 years who underwent MAT between 2011 and 2018. Characteristic information and surgical history were collected for each patient. The database was also queried for all patients who underwent other meniscal surgeries (including debridement, meniscectomy, and meniscal repair) during the same period (controls). Characteristic and geographic data from the control group were compared with those of the patients who underwent MAT. Univariate analysis was followed by purposeful entry multivariate regression to adjust for confounding factors.

Results:

A total of 27,168 meniscal surgeries were performed in 47 hospitals, with MAT performed 67 times in 17 hospitals. Twelve (18%) patients underwent a subsequent procedure after transplantation. In multivariate analysis, each year of increasing age resulted in 1.1 times higher odds of having undergone MAT (95% CI, 1.03-1.1; P = .002) compared with repair or meniscectomy. Patients who underwent MAT also had 2.0 times higher odds of being women (95% CI, 1.2-3.3; P = .01) and 2.0 times higher odds of being privately insured (95% CI, 1.1-3.6; P = .02). MAT was performed most frequently in the Northeast (4.9/1000 meniscal surgeries) and least often in the South (1.1/1000 meniscal surgeries) ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

In the United States, pediatric and adolescent patients who underwent MAT were older and more likely to be female and have private insurance than those undergoing meniscal repair or meniscectomy. MAT was only performed in 17 of 47 children’s hospitals that perform meniscal surgery. These trends highlight the need for further research, especially regarding differences along the lines of sex and insurance status.
Connecting Key Organizational Dimensions for Creating Value Focused on Service in the New Era
Authors: Duncan Lucio R. Lescano
Published: September 2021

This is an era of profound changes in the businesses management and in people’s life. Many companies need to survive, recover and find new ways to create value for stakeholders. A focus on service is an imperative for that purpose, but it is necessary to harmonize this focus with a right understanding about the creation of value in the organizational reality according to the new era. As new technologies are replacing, facilitating and complementing the work of service employees more than ever, it is crucial reorienting the value that service can add. Our task is rethinking the main forces for establishing a focus on service in order to create consistent value. We focus on service culture and climate as the forces that need to be integrated for conveniently connecting with the organizational dimensions for creating value. Through an anthropological analysis and the case methodology we can understand the connection among the key organizational dimensions and the value they create: (a) to obtain sufficient incentives and resources-economic value, (b) to develop the organizational capability-social value and (c) to forge trust and commitment to the mission-ethical value. We extend current conceptualizations about climate and culture focused on creating value and share our reflections about the required connections for consolidating an integrated value, suggesting some managerial implications for that purpose.
Functional and Oncologic Outcomes of Octogenarians Undergoing Transoral Laser Microsurgery for Laryngeal Cancer
Authors: Lee Changseok , Forner David , Noel Christopher W. , Taylor Victoria , MacKay Colin , Rigby Matthew H. , Corsten Martin , Trites Jonathan R. , Taylor S. Mark
Published: September 2021

Objective

To evaluate the oncologic and functional outcomes of transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) for glottic cancers in patients ≥80 years.

Study Design

Prospectively collected case series.

Setting

QEII Health Sciences Centre, Halifax, Canada.

Methods

This case series used a prospectively collected glottic cancer database to examine consecutive elderly patients (≥80 years old) undergoing TLM. Kaplan‐Meier analysis was used to evaluate rates of disease‐free, disease‐specific, and overall survival as the primary end points of oncologic control. Secondary functional outcomes included voice function, length of hospital stay, and time to readmission.

Results

From 2005 to 2017, 17 octogenarian patients underwent TLM for glottic cancer. Median follow‐up was 4.19 years (interquartile range, 0.71‐6.95). Kaplan‐Meier estimates of 5‐year survival were 78.4% (disease free), 92.9% (disease specific), and 81.9% (overall). The median length of hospital stay was 1 day (range, 0‐8). There was only 1 readmission within 30 days of surgery. No patients in this study developed significant surgical or postoperative complications requiring unplanned readmissions. Patient‐perceived voice function improved to normal after treatment in 62.5% of patients.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that TLM is a safe and effective treatment modality for glottic cancer in patients aged ≥80 years, providing good oncologic control and satisfactory functional outcomes.