bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrified bioreactors: the next power‐up for biometallurgical wastewater treatment
Authors: Ostermeyer Pieter , Bonin Luiza , Leon‐Fernandez Luis Fernando , Dominguez‐Benetton Xochitl , Hennebel Tom , Rabaey Korneel
Published: December 2021

Over the past decades, biological treatment of metallurgical wastewaters has become commonplace. Passive systems require intensive land use due to their slow treatment rates, do not recover embedded resources and are poorly controllable. Active systems however require the addition of chemicals, increasing operational costs and possibly negatively affecting safety and the environment. Electrification of biological systems can reduce the use of chemicals, operational costs, surface footprint and environmental impact when compared to passive and active technologies whilst increasing the recovery of resources and the extraction of products. Electrification of low rate applications has resulted in the development of bioelectrochemical systems (BES), but electrification of high rate systems has been lagging behind due to the limited mass transfer, electron transfer and biomass density in BES. We postulate that for high rate applications, the electrification of bioreactors, for example, through the use of electrolyzers, may herald a new generation of electrified biological systems (EBS). In this review, we evaluate the latest trends in the field of biometallurgical and microbial‐electrochemical wastewater treatment and discuss the advantages and challenges of these existing treatment technologies. We advocate for future research to focus on the development of electrified bioreactors, exploring the boundaries and limitations of these systems, and their validity upon treating industrial wastewaters.
Introducing robot‐assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy after experience in retroperitoneal endoscopic approach: a matched propensity score analysis
Authors: Thai Minh Sam , Chau Quy Thuan , Hoang Khac Chuan , Ngo Xuan Thai , Tran Trong Tri , Nguyen Trong Hien , Thai Kinh Luan , Vu Duc Huy , Dinh Le Quy Van , Pham Duc Minh , Tiong Ho Yee , Nguyen Tuan Thanh
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To assess the safety and efficacy of introducing robotic‐assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (RALDN) to the standard retroperitoneal endoscopic donor nephrectomy (REDN).

Methods

Data were collected prospectively from 124 consecutive living kidney donors (93 for REDN subgroup and 31 for RALDN subgroup) from February 2018 to December 2020. Donor baseline demographics, perioperative outcomes and recipient outcomes were recorded, and these parameters were compared between the two subgroups before and after propensity‐score matching.

Results

Mean age was 51.1 ± 9.1 years; 42.7% were males; mean body mass index was 22.7 ± 2.4; and there were 109 (88%) left kidneys. The following data of REDN and RALDN was, respectively, recorded: operative time (213 ± 43 versus 216 ± 39 min, p = 0.721), warm ischemic time (4.7 ± 1.2 versus 4.9 ± 1.4 min, p = 0.399), postoperative complications (5.4% versus 6.5%, p = 1), haemoglobin (g/L) drop (9.4 ± 7.2 versus 9.7 ± 6.6, p = 0.836), blood creatinine at 6 month (1.15 ± 0.23 versus 1.13 ± 0.24 mg/dL, p = 0.734) and at 1 year (1.09 ± 0.22 versus 1.17 ± 0.28 mg/dL, p = 0.591). In post‐propensity score matched analyses, there was no significant differences between the two groups including intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Conclusions

RALDN could be safely introduced into a living donor program experienced in laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. The outcomes of our study comparing these minimally invasive techniques are mostly similar in terms of intraoperative and postoperative outcomes for kidney donors.
The sorbent suspension reciprocating dialyzer: A wearable artificial kidney that almost was
Authors: Ash Stephen R.
Published: December 2021

In this History article, I describe our laboratory’s effort from 1975 to 1983 to develop a very simple, truly wearable artificial kidney. The design was radical and yet simple. Reciprocating plate dialyzer membranes pumped blood in and out of a single blood access point and also mixed a sorbent suspension outside the membranes. A problem with sorbent solubility and termination of corporate funding due to circumstances beyond our control ended the project. With some changes, the main concept was utilized in a later project, the BioLogic‐DT™ “liver dialysis” machine.
Identification of the minimum requirements for successful haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Nishi Katsuyuki , Sakamaki Taro , Sadaoka Kay , Fujii Momo , Takaori‐Kondo Akifumi , Chen James Y. , Miyanishi Masanori
Published: December 2021

Historically, defining haematopoietic subsets, including self‐renewal, differentiation and lineage restriction, has been elucidated by transplanting a small number of candidate cells with many supporting bone marrow (BM) cells. While this approach has been invaluable in characterising numerous distinct subsets in haematopoiesis, this approach is arguably flawed. The haematopoietic stem cell (HSC) has been proposed as the critical haematopoietic subset necessary for transplantation. However, due to the presence of supporting cells, the HSC has never demonstrated sufficiency. Utilising the homeobox B5 (Hoxb5)‐reporter system, we found that neither long‐term (LT) HSCs nor short‐term (ST) HSCs alone were sufficient for long‐term haematopoietic reconstitution. Critically, reconstitution can be rescued by transplanting combined LT‐ and ST‐HSCs, without supporting cells; a fraction we term the ‘Minimum Subset for Transplantation’ (MST). The MST accounts for only 0·005% of nucleated cells within mouse BM, and this MST can be cultured, expanded and genetically modified while preserving its rapid haematopoietic engraftment potential. These results support the consideration of an MST approach for clinical translation, especially for gene therapy approaches that require HSC compartment modification.
Thrombospondin‐1 induced programmed death‐ligand 1‐mediated immunosuppression by activating the STAT3 pathway in osteosarcoma
Authors: Liu Zhuochao , Wen Junxiang , Hu Fangqiong , Wang Jun , Hu Chuanzhen , Zhang Weibin
Published: December 2021

Thrombospondin‐1 (TSP1) is generally assumed to suppress the growth of osteosarcoma through inhibiting angiogenesis; however, it is unclear whether TSP1 could affect the antitumor immunity against osteosarcoma. We aimed to explore the immune‐related tumor‐promoting effects of TSP1 and decipher its underlying mechanism. First, we identified that TSP1 regulated programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression, which was related to the CD8+ T cells anergy in osteosarcoma cells. The exact role of PD‐L1 in the immunosuppressive effect of TSP1 was then further confirmed by the addition of the PD‐L1 neutralizing Ab. With the addition of PD‐L1 neutralizing Abs during cocultivation, the inhibition of CD8+ T cells was abolished to a certain extent. Further mechanistic investigations showed that TSP1‐induced PD‐L1 upregulation was achieved by activation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway. In vivo experiments also indicated that TSP1 overexpression could promote the growth of primary lesions, whereas TSP1 knockdown effectively inhibits the growth of the primary lesion as well as lung metastasis by restoring the antitumor immunity. Thrombospondin‐1 knockdown combined with PD‐L1 neutralizing Ab achieved a more pronounced antitumor effect. Taken together, our study showed that TSP1 upregulates PD‐L1 by activating the STAT3 pathway and, therefore, impairs the antitumor immunity against osteosarcoma.
E‐cigarette, cannabis and combustible tobacco use: associations with xerostomia among California adolescents
Authors: Chaffee Benjamin W. , Halpern‐Felsher Bonnie , Cheng Jing
Published: December 2021

Objective

Xerostomia (subjective experience of dry mouth), while less common in younger populations, can contribute to caries and oral discomfort. Use of e‐cigarettes and cannabis among adolescents is increasing and may be a xerostomia risk factor. This study evaluates xerostomia prevalence in an adolescent population, overall and by e‐cigarette, cannabis and combustible tobacco use.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analyses of 12‐month follow‐up data (N=976; collected 2020–2021) from a cohort of adolescents recruited from public high schools in Northern California (USA) compared self‐reported past 30‐day e‐cigarette, cannabis and other tobacco use and dry mouth (overall dry mouth experience; shortened xerostomia inventory, SXI). Dry mouth experience (never, occasionally, frequently/always) was modelled using ordered logistic regression with school‐level clustering and adjustment for gender, race/ethnicity, alcohol use, asthma, physical activity and mutually for e‐cigarette, cannabis and tobacco use.

Results

Past 30‐day use prevalence was 12% for e‐cigarettes, 16% for cannabis and 3% for combustible tobacco. Occasional dry mouth experience (54%) was more common than frequent/always experience (5%). Frequent/always dry mouth was more prevalent among frequent (>5 days/month) e‐cigarette (14%) and cannabis (19%) users and combustible tobacco users (19%) than non‐users of those respective products (all comparisons p < 0.001). In covariable‐adjusted models, frequent e‐cigarette use was no longer significantly associated with dry mouth experience (OR: 1.40; 95% CI: 0.69, 2.84), while frequent cannabis use (OR: 3.17; 95% CI: 1.47, 6.82) and combustible tobacco use (OR: 1.92; 95% CI: 1.38, 2.68) were associated with greater odds of reporting more frequent dry mouth. Findings were qualitatively similar using the SXI.

Conclusions

In this study, xerostomia was not independently associated with e‐cigarette use but was one potential health concern of adolescent cannabis and combustible tobacco use.
Primary hyperparathyroidism in adults—(Part II) surgical management and postoperative follow‐up: Position statement of the Endocrine Society of Australia, The Australian & New Zealand Endocrine Surgeons, and The Australian & New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society
Authors: Miller Julie A. , Gundara Justin , Harper Simon , Herath Madhuni , Ramchand Sabashini K. , Farrell Stephen , Serpell Jonathan , Taubman Kim , Christie James , Girgis Christian M. , Schneider Hans G. , Clifton‐Bligh Roderick , Gill Anthony J. , De Sousa Sunita M. C. , Carroll Richard W. , Milat Frances , Grossmann Mathis
Published: December 2021

Objective

To develop evidence‐based recommendations to guide the surgical management and postoperative follow‐up of adults with primary hyperparathyroidism.

Methods

Representatives from relevant Australian and New Zealand Societies used a systematic approach for adaptation of guidelines (ADAPTE) to derive an evidence‐informed position statement addressing eight key questions.

Results

Diagnostic imaging does not determine suitability for surgery but can guide the planning of surgery in suitable candidates. First‐line imaging includes ultrasound and either parathyroid 4DCT or scintigraphy, depending on local availability and expertise. Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy is appropriate in most patients with concordant imaging. Bilateral neck exploration should be considered in those with discordant/negative imaging findings, multi‐gland disease and genetic/familial risk factors. Parathyroid surgery, especially re‐operative surgery, has better outcomes in the hands of higher volume surgeons. Neuromonitoring is generally not required for initial surgery but should be considered for re‐operative surgery. Following parathyroidectomy, calcium and parathyroid hormone levels should be re‐checked in the first 24 h and repeated early if there are risk factors for hypocalcaemia. Eucalcaemia at 6 months is consistent with surgical cure; parathyroid hormone levels do not need to be re‐checked in the absence of other clinical indications. Longer‐term surveillance of skeletal health is recommended.

Conclusions

This position statement provides up‐to‐date guidance on evidence‐based best practice surgical and postoperative management of adults with primary hyperparathyroidism.
Protected area characteristics that help waterbirds respond to climate warming
Authors: Gaget Elie , Johnston Alison , Pavón‐Jordán Diego , Lehikoinen Aleksi S. , Sandercock Brett K. , Soultan Alaaeldin , Božič Luka , Clausen Preben , Devos Koen , Domsa Cristi , Encarnação Vitor , Faragó Sándor , Fitzgerald Niamh , Frost Teresa , Gaudard Clemence , Gosztonyi Lívia , Haas Fredrik , Hornman Menno , Langendoen Tom , Ieronymidou Christina , Luigujõe Leho , Meissner Włodzimierz , Mikuska Tibor , Molina Blas , Musilová Zuzana , Paquet Jean‐Yves , Petkov Nicky , Portolou Danae , Ridzoň Jozef , Sniauksta Laimonas , Stīpniece Antra , Teufelbauer Norbert , Wahl Johannes , Zenatello Marco , Brommer Jon E.
Published: December 2021

Protected area networks help species respond to climate warming. However, the contribution of a site's environmental and conservation‐relevant characteristics to these responses is not well understood. We investigated how composition of nonbreeding waterbird communities (97 species) in the European Union Natura 2000 (N2K) network (3018 sites) changed in response to increases in temperature over 25 years in 26 European countries. We measured community reshuffling based on abundance time series collected under the International Waterbird Census relative to N2K sites’ conservation targets, funding, designation period, and management plan status. Waterbird community composition in sites explicitly designated to protect them and with management plans changed more quickly in response to climate warming than in other N2K sites. Temporal community changes were not affected by the designation period despite greater exposure to temperature increase inside late‐designated N2K sites. Sites funded under the LIFE program had lower climate‐driven community changes than sites that did not received LIFE funding. Our findings imply that efficient conservation policy that helps waterbird communities respond to climate warming is associated with sites specifically managed for waterbirds.
Drink driving among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians: What has been done and where to next?
Authors: Fitts Michelle S. , Burchill Richard , Wilson Scott , Palk Gavan R. , Clough Alan R. , Conigrave Katherine M. , Slade Tim , Shakeshaft Anthony , Lee K. S. Kylie
Published: December 2021

The Australian Government will set the direction for addressing road safety over the next decade with its 2021–2030 National Road Safety Strategy. This road map will detail objectives and goals agreed upon by all Australian states and territories. Similar to previous national strategies, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Indigenous) Australians are a high priority population. Indigenous Australians are over‐represented in serious injury and fatal road crashes, with alcohol a leading factor. Therapeutic and educational programs are a major strategy among the suite of measures designed to reduce and prevent drink driving in Australia. The release of this new strategy provides a timely opportunity to reflect on what is known about drink driving among Indigenous Australians and to consider the suitability of existing therapeutic and educational drink driving programs for Indigenous Australian contexts. Here, we summarise factors that contribute to drink driving in this population and identify outstanding knowledge gaps. Then, we present an overview of drink driving programs available for Indigenous Australians along with suggestions for why tailored programs are needed to suit local contexts. The response to address drink driving among Indigenous Australians has been fragmented Australia‐wide. A coordinated national response, with ongoing monitoring and evaluation, would improve policy effectiveness and inform more efficient allocation of resources. Together this information can help create suitable and effective drink driving programs for Indigenous drivers and communities Australia‐wide.
Contextual challenges of smart city implementation in Mashhad, Iran's second‐largest metropolis
Authors: Alizadeh Bazrafshan Navidreza , Kharazmi Omid Ali
Published: December 2021

Motivation

Smart cities can develop cutting‐edge technology and innovative solutions and policies to improve urban life. Like other emerging phenomena, smart cities need to address several contextual challenges. Their implementation in low‐ and lower‐ middle‐income countries (L&LMICs) has characteristics that policy‐makers might consider to improve contextual conditions in their strategies.

Purpose

The article identifies the interconnected obstacles that hinder the implementation of a smart city in Mashhad, Iran's second‐largest metropolis, and offers a comprehensive framework to address these.

Methods and approach

The study used a qualitative research methodology. Due to the exploratory nature of the research, 15 semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were conducted with experts on the smart city in the municipality, the city council, and Mashhad universities. Grounded theory method (GTM) was deployed to develop the research framework.

Findings

After analysing the data, eight themes and 29 sub‐themes within three categories were classified, showing that Mashhad faces numerous challenges in the implementation of a smart city, which call for practical policies and measures regarding institutional structure (such as lack of co‐ordination among stakeholders and legal gaps), urban infrastructure (such as cost of implementation and privacy) and human concerns.

Policy implications

The socio‐cultural, economic, political, and even ecological conditions of cities can influence the success of smart city policies, so each city will face a different set of challenges.
Multilevel political connections and nonprofit revenues under authoritarianism: Evidence from Chinese foundations
Authors: Wang Qun
Published: December 2021

Under authoritarianism, nonprofits establish formal political connections at the organizational level when they are affiliated with the state or at the individual level when they have government officials assume managerial positions. From the perspective of multilevel interorganizational relations, this article uses a sample of Chinese foundations to investigate the association of the two levels of political connections and their interactions with a wide range of nonprofit revenues. The results report no positive relationship between individual political connections and nonprofit revenues and quite limited evidence that above relationship is positively moderated by organizational political connections. At the organizational level, politically connected foundations may receive more government grants and domestic and overseas donations than civic foundations, depending on which type of agencies they are affiliated with—government or quasi‐government. The results imply authoritarian states may shift toward institutionalized measures to manage nonprofits and reduce the involvement of government officials to ensure policy consolidation.
Childhood obesity within the lens of racism
Authors: Browne Nancy T. , Hodges Eric A. , Small Leigh , Snethen Julia A. , Frenn Marilyn , Irving Sharon Y. , Gance‐Cleveland Bonnie , Greenberg Cindy Smith
Published: December 2021

Despite decades of research and a multitude of prevention and treatment efforts, childhood obesity in the United States continues to affect nearly 1 in 5 (19.3%) children, with significantly higher rates among Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour communities. This narrative review presents social foundations of structural racism that exacerbate inequity and disparity in the context of childhood obesity. The National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities' Research Framework guides the explication of structurally racist mechanisms that influence health disparities and contribute to childhood obesity: biologic and genetic, health behaviours, chronic toxic stress, the built environment, race and cultural identity, and the health care system. Strategies and interventions to combat structural racism and its effects on children and their families are reviewed along with strategies for research and implications for policy change. From our critical review and reflection, the subtle and overt effects of societal structures sustained from years of racism and the impact on the development and resistant nature of childhood obesity compel concerted action.
Diagnosis and management of primary central nervous system lymphoma: a consensus practice statement from the Australasian Lymphoma Alliance
Authors: Keane Colm , Hamad Nada , Barraclough Allison , Lee Yoo Y. , Talaulikar Dipti , Ku Matthew , Wight Joel , Tatarczuch Maciej , Swain Fiona , Gregory Gareth P.
Published: December 2021

Primary central nervous system lymphoma is a clinicopathological disease entity that accounts for 1% of all non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Advanced patient age, adverse disease biology and complexities of diagnosis and treatment render outcomes markedly inferior to systemic NHL. Despite this, an increasing evidence base, including limited randomised controlled clinical trial data, is informing optimal therapeutic strategies with methotrexate‐based induction chemotherapy schedules and intensified consolidation in selected patients. This practice statement represents an evidence‐based review of the literature and has been devised to assist healthcare professionals in the diagnosis and management of this disease.
Engage me: Learners' expectancies and teachers' efforts in designing effective online classes
Authors: Schmitz Birgit , Hanke Katja
Published: December 2021

Background

The COVID‐19 lockdown forced students and teachers to adjust to remote lecturers and digital learning material and design criteria for online classes became the centre of discussion.

Objectives

The purpose of this empirical study was to investigate the relationship between design principles of educational online practices in higher education and students' active engagement in the online learning process.

Methods

A total of 127 students participated in the study after their first semester of fully online classes resulting from the COVID‐19 lockdown. The online classes enabled real‐time communication and allowed for the creation of professional learning communities or the collaborative creation of content, for example. To evaluate the classes and to indicate perceived student learning, the study applied scales for measuring academic student engagement, as well as the four distinct factors for assessing online teaching effectiveness.

Results and Conclusions

Bivariate correlational analysis suggested that the two design elements Time on Task (TT) and Active Learning (AL) are related to emotional engagement at a meaningful level thus influencing student commitment and class activities. The results further indicated that TT and AL are significant design elements in relation to perceived usefulness and students' perceived learning.

Implications

The results may identify effective means to support and enhance student engagement in online settings, thus improving the quality of online teaching and learning.
Novel method for high‐density porous polyethylene ear reconstruction stent remodeling to achieve high satisfactory outcomes
Authors: Guo Rong , Ying Jianghui , Yuan Xiao , Xi Tingting , Xiong Jiachao , Jiang Hua
Published: December 2021

Objective

We aimed to explore a novel method for ear reconstruction stent remodeling to achieve high patient satisfactory outcomes.

Methods

This study is a retrospective review of patients with congenital or acquired ear defects who were prepared for one‐stage ear reconstruction with high‐density porous polyethylene stent between May 2020 and May 2021. A standardized data collection template was used to collect related variables. In this study, the detailed reconstruction surgery process is carefully described, and the postoperative healing process of the ear reconstruction was closely observed.

Results

A total of 26 patients for one‐stage ear reconstruction with high‐density porous polyethylene stent or autogenous costal cartilage scaffolds were admitted to the department of plastic surgery in our hospital between May 2020 and May 2021. All patients were followed until their ear flaps were alive and details of the ear shape were revealed. The patients with new remolding method were no severe complications and only a patient had stent exposure, and were highly satisfied with both appearance and function.

Conclusions

The application of novel remodeling method is a promising way for ear reconstruction stent shaping with little postoperative complication and excellent postoperative patient satisfaction.
Relationism and the Problem of Publicity
Authors: Valente Matheus , Verdejo Víctor M.
Published: December 2021

According to a recently developed family of relational views, whether two concepts C1and C2are the same is a matter of an external relation in which their tokens stand. In this paper, we highlight the chief contributions of Relationism in the elucidation of concept sameness, present a set of arguments to the effect that relational accounts of concept sameness fail to accommodate a substantive notion of concept publicity, and offer a diagnosis of this result. We conclude that the strengths of non‐relational approaches will also need to be considered in order to fully capture what it means for a concept to be public.
Perceived changes in social contact during COVID‐19 pandemic in the United States
Authors: Lee Ji Hyun , Luchetti Martina , Aschwanden Damaris , Sesker Amanda A. , Strickhouser Jason E. , Terracciano Antonio , Sutin Angelina R.
Published: December 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic and its restrictions have led to a shift in how people connect with others. This study investigated (a) profiles of social contact change across social ties and modes of contact, (b) predictors of these profiles, and (c) the association between these profiles and mental health during the pandemic. Participants (N = 2,098; Age mean = 50.94, range = 18–98; 48.3% female) were surveyed online twice, once prior to the pandemic (January 31–February 10, 2020) and again early in the outbreak (March 18–29, 2020). A latent profile analysis identified profiles of social contact change across social ties and communication methods. Additional analyses identified predictors of group membership and their association with mental health. Three latent groups were identified: (1) the “majority group” (77%) slightly restricted in‐person contact and had a small increase in phone and text use, (2) the “high technology use group” (13%) restricted in‐person contact and increased the use of all technology‐based methods, and (3) the “isolated group” (10%) decreased in both in‐person and technology‐based contact. Compared to the majority group, the high technology use group reported higher depression and anxiety, whereas the isolated group reported higher loneliness. There were three distinct profiles of how adults in the United States changed their communication patterns with others early in the pandemic that were linked to distinct patterns of mental health. The results have implications for the development and the delivery of mental health treatment in times of social (physical) distancing.
A philosophically neutral semantics for perception sentences
Authors: Iaquinto Samuele , Spolaore Giuseppe
Published: December 2021

Jaakko Hintikka proposed treating objectual perception sentences, such as “Alice sees Bob,” as de re propositional perception sentences. Esa Saarinen extended Hintikka's idea to eventive perception sentences, such as “Alice sees Bob smile.” These approaches, elegant as they may be, are not philosophically neutral, for they presuppose, controversially, that the content of all perceptual experiences is propositional in nature. The aim of this paper is to propose a formal treatment of objectual and eventive perception sentences that builds on Hintikka's modal approach to propositional attitude ascriptions while avoiding controversial assumptions on the nature of perceptual experiences. Despite being simple and theoretically frugal, our approach is powerful enough to express a variety of interesting philosophical views about propositional, objectual, and eventive perception sentences, thus enabling the study of their inferential relationships.
EMERGING NEED FOR MICRO-CLIMATIC CONSIDERATIONS IN URBAN DESIGN PROCESS: A REVIEW
Authors: Salmanian Mohammadhassan , Ujang Norsidah
Published: December 2021

The effects and consequences of climate change have been extensively considered in the urban design qualities. The climatic factors directly affect human activities in urban spaces, particularly in the pedestrian environment. The global issues on climate change could be well understood by understanding the contributions of climatic conditions towards thermal environmental discomforts. So, the roles and processes in urban design can be enhanced to reduce the impacts of extreme urban climate on pedestrian experiences. This current article focused on the systematic review of thermal comfort through urban designing, detailing the objectives, methods used, and the body of knowledge to deal with this issue. This paper also summarizes the current understanding and challenges in addressing the microclimatic analysis roles in human life by discussing the thermal comfort studies and literature regarding human, building, and city levels. Finally, this systemic study demonstrated the needs and potential assessments based on the quality and standardization of human-centric data collection and interpretation. It specifically addressed an urban planner's structure that could be used as an empirical method during the urban planning processes. In conclusion, the applications of the recommended methods identified in this study aid in the design decisions to shift towards climate comfort in urban spaces.
THE ENHANCED PHOTOCATALYTIC PROPERTIES OF SILVER PHOSPHATE SYNTHESIZED UNDER MANGOSTEEN PEEL EXTRACT SOLUTION
Authors: Marcorius Alfa , Sulaeman Uyi , Afif Mohammad , Nurfiah Siti , Khanifudin Khanifudin , Afifah Khusnul
Published: December 2021

The synthesis of silver phosphate (Ag3PO4) photocatalyst has been widely developed for organic pollutant degradation. However, the large particle of this photocatalyst limits the photocatalytic activity. The smaller particle size of the Ag3PO4 photocatalyst was successfully prepared using the starting material of AgNO3 and Na2HPO4.12H2O under mangosteen peel extract solution. The starting materials were dissolved in mangosteen peel extract solutions prepared at the concentration of 1% (w/v). The reaction of silver nitrate and phosphate solution was conducted at room temperature. The samples of pristine Ag3PO4 and Ag3PO4 prepared under mangosteen peel extract were studied using XRD, DRS, SEM, BET, and FTIR. All photocatalytic activities were evaluated using Rhodamine B photooxidation under blue light irradiation (LED, 3 Watt). The results showed that the mangosteen peel extract significantly decreased the particle size, lowered the bandgap energy from 2.12 to 2.00 eV, and increased the crystallinity of Ag3PO4. The interaction of xanthones from mangosteen peel extract solution with silver ion might affect the growth particle of Ag3PO4, and inhibit the agglomeration leading to small particle size, more uniform distribution, high crystallinity, and low bandgap energy. These properties enhanced the photocatalytic activity up to 2.9 times higher compared to the sample without the treatment of mangosteen peel extract.
THEORETICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF ESTIMATING CHANGE POINT IN MULTIVARIATE PROCESSES VIA SIMULTANEOUS COVARIANCE MATRIX AND MEAN VECTOR
Authors: Firouzi Alireza , Mohd Yusof Noordin , Lee Muhammad Hisyam , Bashiri Robabeh
Published: December 2021

The identification of change points in statistical process control (SPC) data is the critical criterion for multivariate techniques when output is out-of-control condition. Therefore, monitoring all independent variables is essential and demands targeted attention to avoid errors at the systems control stage. However, estimating change-point in multivariate control charts is the main problem when these correlated quality characteristics monitor together. Therefore, we proposed a combination of an ensemble learning-based model of artificial neural networks with support vector machines to monitor process mean vector and covariance matrix shifts simultaneously to estimate the change point in a multivariable system. The performance of the final model indicated an estimated changing point with one sample over 6,000 simulated cases with a probability of 98 percent, which is a significantly high accuracy rating. Finding suggests the outcome of the project confirms that the proposed model can provide a precise estimating the change point by monitoring the mean vector and the covariance matrix simultaneously and, helps to identify those variable(s) responsible for an out-of-control condition. For further validation of the model, the performance of the proposed model has been compared with previous reported which confirms a better performance of the proposed model. Finally, the model was applied to monitor the performance of the solar hydrogen production system and the model identify the variables which have negative effects on the performance of the system.
ISOLATION AND SCREENING OF PROTEOLYTIC BACTERIA FROM SIDOARJO SHRIMP PASTE AS PROTEASE SOURCE TO EXTRACT THE COLLAGEN FROM MILKFISH SCALES (CHANOS CHANOS)
Authors: Susanti A Evi , Suharti Suharti , Wahab Roswanira , Chusniyah Naharotul , Paramitha Shindy Tirta
Published: December 2021

This research aimed to isolate protease-producing bacteria from Sidoarjo shrimp paste for extracting collagen from milkfish scales. This study began with isolation, followed by screening and purification of protease-producing bacterial isolates. Further confirmation of the isolates’ proteolytic indices and the crude protease production, the enzymes’ efficacy in extracting collagen from milkfish scales were tested, followed by pathogenicity and identification using 16S rRNA molecular technique. The study has successfully isolated 15 proteolytic bacterial isolates using skimmed milk agar, but only isolates of TR-10, TR-4.1.1, and TR-15.1 exhibited prospective proteolytic activity based on their corresponding proteolytic indices of 2.96 ± 0.06, 3.10 ± 0.10, and 3.71 ± 0.48. Although the proteolytic activity of isolates TR-10 (0.22 ± 0.05 U/mL) and TR-15.1 (1.07 ± 0.14 U/mL) was high in a salt medium using peptone as the nitrogen source, only the former showed satisfactory activity to extract soluble collagen from milkfish scales. Based on the 16SrRNA, the TR-10 isolate was identified as Bacillus megaterium. The non-pathogenicity of the TR-10 bacterium signified its promising role as a protease source for the halal collagen extraction from milkfish scales.
Dual Transcriptomics To Determine Gamma Interferon-Independent Host Response to Intestinal Cryptosporidium parvum Infection
Authors: Gallego-Lopez Gina M. , Mendoza Cavazos Carolina , Tibabuzo Perdomo Andrés M. , Garfoot Andrew L. , O’Connor Roberta M. , Knoll Laura J.
Published: December 2021

Animals with a chronic infection of the parasiteToxoplasma gondiiare protected against lethal secondary infection with other pathogens. Our group previously determined that solubleT. gondiiantigens (STAg) can mimic this protection and be used as a treatment against several lethal pathogens.
Ten-year reduction in thoracic injury-related mortality among Israel Defense Forces soldiers
Authors: Chen Jacob , Tsur A M , Nadler R , Beit Ner E , Sorkin A , Radomislensky I , Peleg K , Ben Avi R , Shushan G , Glassberg E , Benov A
Published: December 2021

Introduction

This study aims to describe injury patterns, prehospital interventions and mortality rates of combat-related thoracic injuries during the past decade among Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers before and after implementation of the 2012 IDF-Military Corps‘My Brother’s Keeper’plan which included the publication of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for thoracic injuries, emphasis on adequate torso protection, introduction of modern life-saving procedures and encouragement of rapid evacuation.

Methods

The IDF prehospital trauma registry was reviewed to identify all patients who sustained thoracic injuries from January 2006 to December 2017. IDF soldiers who were injured, died of wounds or killed in action (KIA) were included. These were cross-referenced with the Israel National Trauma Registry. The periods before and after the plan were compared.

Results

458 (12.3%) of 3733 IDF soldiers wounded on the battlefield sustained combat-related thoracic injuries. The overall mortality was 44.3% before the CPG and 17.3% after (p<0.001). Most were KIA: 97% (95 of 98) died by 30 June 2012, and 83% (20 of 24) after (p<0.001). Casualties treated with needle thoracostomy before and after CPG were 6.3% and 18.3%, respectively (p=0.002). More tube thoracostomies were performed after June 2012 (16.1% vs 5.4%, p=0.001). Evacuation was faster after June 2012 (119.4 min vs 560.8 min, p<0.001), but the rates of casualties evacuated within 60 min were similar (21.1% vs 25%, p=0.617).

Conclusions

Among military casualties with thoracic injuries, the rate of life-saving interventions increased, evacuation time decreased and mortality dropped following the implementation of My Brother’s Keeper plan.
Do deaths from road traffic injuries follow a classical trimodal pattern in North West Ethiopia? A hospital-based prospective cohort study
Authors: Denu Zewditu Abdissa , Yassin Mensur Osman , Azale Telake , Biks Gashaw Andargie , Gelaye Kassahun Alemu
Published: December 2021

Objective

The objective of this study was to identify timing distribution and predictors of deaths following road traffic injuries among all age groups at Gondar Comprehensive specialised hospital.

Design

A single-centre prospective cohort study.

Setting

The study hospital is a tertiary hospital in North West Ethiopia.

Participants

We enrolled 454 participants who sustained road traffic injuries in to the current study. All age groups and injury severity were included except those who arrived dead, had no attendant and when the injury time was unknown.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was time to death measured in hours from injury time up to the 30th day of the injuries. Secondary outcomes were prehospital first aid, length of hospital stay and hospital arrival time. The article has been registered, with a unique identification number of research registry 6556.

Results

A total of 454 victims were followed for 275 534 person hours. There were 80 deaths with an overall incidence of 2.90 deaths per 10 000 person hours of observation (95% CI 2.77 to 3.03). The significant predictors of time to death were being a driver (AHR=2.26; 95% CI 1.09 to 4.65, AR=14.8), accident at interurban roads ((AHR (Adjusted HAzard Ratio=1.98; 95% CI 1.02 to 3.82, AR (Attributable Risk)=21%)), time from injury to hospital arrival (AHR=0.41; 95% CI 0.16 to 0.63; AR=3%), systolic blood pressure on admission of <90 mm Hg (AHR=3.66; 95% CI 2.14 to 6.26; AR=57%), Glasgow Coma Scale of <8 (AHR=7.39; 95% CI 3.0819 to 17.74464; AR=75.7%), head injury with polytrauma (AHR=2.32 (1.12774 4.79; AR=37%) and interaction of distance from hospital with prehospital care.

Conclusion

Though the maturation of trauma centres in many developed countries has changed the temporal pattern of deaths following any trauma, our study demonstrated that trauma deaths follow the traditional trimodal pattern. That implies that potentially preventable causes of death continued in low-resource countries.
Identifying patients with psychosocial problems in general practice: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Schwenker Rosemarie , Kroeber Eric Sven , Deutsch Tobias , Frese Thomas , Unverzagt Susanne
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Psychosocial problems (PSPs) are common issues associated with negative health outcomes. Since general practitioners are the first point of contact for any health-related concern, understanding their options to recognise patients with PSPs plays an important role as it is essential for early intervention and can prevent serious conditions. The objective of our scoping review is to map published evidence on the usage of instruments to identify patients with PSPs in general practice.

Methods and analysis

We will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist and the Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewer’s Manual on scoping reviews. A systematic search of four electronic databases (Medline (Ovid), Web of Science Core Collection, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library) will be conducted for quantitative and qualitative studies published in English, Spanish, French and German. Main study characteristics as well as information on identification instruments will be extracted and visualised in structured tables to map the available evidence. The protocol has been registered with Open Science Framework,https://osfio/c2m6z.

Ethics and dissemination

This study does not require ethical approval as we will not collect personal data. Dissemination will consist of publications, presentations and other knowledge translation activities.
Evaluation of the insertion parameters and complications of the i-gel Plus airway device for maintaining patent airway during planned procedures under general anaesthesia: a protocol for a prospective multicentre cohort study
Authors: Klementova Olga , Bhoday Taranpreet Kaur , Werner Jakub , Lopez Ana M , Donaldson Will , Lichnovsky Erik , Gaszyński Tomasz , Henlin Tomas , Bruthans Jan , Ulrichova Jitka , Lukes Martin , Blaha Jan , Kral Michal , Gomez Lidia , Berge Raquel , Holland Jonathan , McAleavey Francis , Arava Shiva , Merjava Skripecka Lubica , Sobczyk Sebastian , Tyll Tomas , Michalek Pavel
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Supraglottic airway devices represent a less invasive method of airway management than tracheal intubation during general anaesthesia. Their continued development is focused mainly on improvements in the insertion success rate and minimalisation of perioperative and postoperative complications. The i-gel Plus is a novel, anatomically preshaped supraglottic airway device which achieves a perilaryngeal seal due to a non-inflatable cuff made of a soft thermoplastic elastomer. The purpose of this cohort study is to assess the success rate of the i-gel Plus use during elective procedures under general anaesthesia, its intraoperative performance, and the degree of postoperative complications.

Methods and analysis

This is a multicentre, prospective, interventional cohort study. The enrolment will take place in seven centres in four European countries. We plan to enrol 2000 adult patients in total, who are scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia, and with an indication for use of a supraglottic airway device for management of their airway. The study is projected to run over a period of 18 months. The primary outcome of the study is the total success rate of the i-gel Plus insertion in terms of successful ventilation and oxygenation through the device. Secondary outcomes include perioperative parameters, such as insertion time, seal/leak pressures, number of insertion attempts and postoperative adverse events and complications. Postoperative follow-up will be performed at 1 hour, 24 hours in all patients, and for selected patients at 3 and 6 months.

Ethics and dissemination

The cohort study has received the following ethical approvals: General University Hospital Prague, University Hospital Olomouc, University Military Hospital Prague, University Hospital Barcelona, University Hospital Lodz, Antrim Area Hospital, Craigavon Area Hospital, Office for Research Ethics Committees Northern Ireland. The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at relevant anaesthesia conferences.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN86233693;Pre-results.
Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial on the effect of local analgesia for pain relief after minimal invasive sacroiliac joint fusion: the ARTEMIS study
Authors: Hermans Sem M M , Nellensteijn Jorm M , van Santbrink Henk , Knoef Rob , Reinders Mattheus K , Hoofwijk Daisy M N , Potters Jan W , Movig Kris L L , Curfs Inez , van Hemert Wouter L W
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Chronic lower back pain is a common report in the general population. A dysfunctional sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is estimated to be responsible for one in five patients with lower back pain. Minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion (MISJF) is a surgical procedure to treat SIJ dysfunction. During the procedure, the SIJ is stabilised by implants inserted percutaneously under fluoroscopy guidance. Postoperatively, patients often report a lot of pain, which contributes to patients taking high doses of painkillers (opioids for example,) and preventing early mobilisation. In several orthopaedic procedures, intraoperative infiltration of the wound bed results in decreased consumption of analgesics, earlier mobilisation and shorter hospitalisation time. The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of intraoperative SIJ infiltration with analgesia in reducing postoperative pain after MISJF.

Methods and analysis

We will perform a two-centre, prospective, double-blind, randomised controlled trial to determine whether SIJ infiltration with 1.5–5 cc bupivacaine 0.50% is superior to 1.5–5 cc placebo (NaCl 0.9%) in reducing postoperative pain in patients after MISJF, and to determine whether bupivacaine significantly reduces opioid use in the direct postoperative period. Patients will be randomised with 1:1 allocation for either bupivacaine (intervention) or placebo SIJ infiltration. Postoperative pain will be measured by the Visual Analogue Scale pain score at entry and exit recovery, 2, 4, 6, 24 and 48 hours postoperatively.

Ethics and dissemination

This is the first trial that investigates the effectiveness of intraoperative SIJ infiltration with bupivacaine 0.50% in reducing postoperative pain after MISJF. If intraoperative SIJ infiltration with bupivacaine 0.50% proves to be effective, this might have important clinical implications, such as postoperative analgesics (opioids for example,) consumption, earlier mobilisation and potentially shorter hospitalisation time.

Trial registration number

NL9151.
Hepatitis E virus Infection in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Trongtorsak Angkawipa , Chaisidhivej Natapat , Yadav Kritika , Kim Jinah , Thongprayoon Charat , Cheungpasitporn Wisit , Hansrivijit Panupong
Published: December 2021

Although most patients with hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, its infection is generally underdiagnosed and overlooked. In immunocompromised patients, HEV infection can lead to acute liver failure and death. However, the clinical evidence of HEV infection in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients is scarce; thus, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the prevalence of HEV infection in this population. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library databases from inception through October 2020 to identify studies that reported the prevalence of HEV infection among HSCT recipients. HEV infections were confirmed by HEV-IgG/IgM or HEV-RNA assay. A total of 1977 patients from nine studies with a follow-up time up to 40 months were included in the final analysis. The pooled prevalence of positive HEV-RNA was 3.0% (95% CI 2.3% to 4.0%). The pooled prevalence of positive HEV-IgG was 10.3% (95% CI 4.5% to 21.8%). The pooled prevalence of de novo HEV infection was 2.9% (95% CI 1.8% to 4.5%). Age and male gender were not associated with HEV-RNA or HEV-IgG positivity in the meta-regression analysis. In conclusion, the prevalence of HEV-IgG in HSCT recipients was about 10%, while the prevalence of HEV-RNA was only 3%. However, further studies that focus on the clinical outcomes in this population are warranted.