bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Normalization and outlier removal in class center-based firefly algorithm for missing value imputation
Authors: Nugroho Heru , Utama Nugraha Priya , Surendro Kridanto
Published: October 2021

A missing value is one of the factors that often cause incomplete data in almost all studies, even those that are well-designed and controlled. It can also decrease a study’s statistical power or result in inaccurate estimations and conclusions. Hence, data normalization and missing value handling are considered the major problems in the data pre-processing stage, while classification algorithms are adopted to handle numerical features. In cases where the observed data contained outliers, the missing value estimated results are sometimes unreliable or even differ greatly from the true values. Therefore, this study aims to propose the combination of normalization and outlier removals before imputing missing values on the class center-based firefly algorithm method (ON  +  C3FA). Moreover, some standard imputation techniques like mean, a random value, regression, as well as multiple imputation, KNN imputation, and decision tree (DT)-based missing value imputation were utilized as a comparison of the proposed method. Experimental results on the sonar dataset showed normalization and outlier removals effect in the methods. According to the proposed method (ON  +  C3FA), AUC, accuracy, F1-Score, Precision, Recall, and AUC-PR had 0.972, 0.906, 0.906, 0.908, 0.906, 0.61 respectively. The result showed combining normalization and outlier removals in C3-FA (ON  +  C3FA) was an efficient technique for obtaining actual data in handling missing values, and it also outperformed the previous studies methods with r and RMSE values of 0.935 and 0.02. Meanwhile, the Dks value obtained from this technique was 0.04, which indicated that it could maintain the values or distribution accuracy.
MuSe: a multi-level storage scheme for big RDF data using MapReduce
Authors: Chawla Tanvi , Singh Girdhari , Pilli Emmanuel S.
Published: October 2021

Resource Description Framework (RDF) model owing to its flexible structure is increasingly being used to represent Linked data. The rise in amount of Linked data and Knowledge graphs has resulted in an increase in the volume of RDF data. RDF is used to model metadata especially for social media domains where the data is linked. With the plethora of RDF data sources available on the Web, scalable RDF data management becomes a tedious task. In this paper, we present MuSe—an efficient distributed RDF storage scheme for storing and querying RDF data with Hadoop MapReduce. In MuSe, the Big RDF data is stored at two levels for answering the common triple patterns in SPARQL queries. MuSe considers the type of frequently occuring triple patterns and optimizes RDF storage to answer such triple patterns in minimum time. It accesses only the tables that are sufficient for answering a triple pattern instead of scanning the whole RDF dataset. The extensive experiments on two synthetic RDF datasets i.e. LUBM and WatDiv, show that MuSe outperforms the compared state-of-the art frameworks in terms of query execution time and scalability.
Plasma hyaluronan, hyaluronidase activity and endogenous hyaluronidase inhibition in sepsis: an experimental and clinical cohort study
Authors: van der Heijden Jaap , Kolliopoulos Constantinos , Skorup Paul , Sallisalmi Marko , Heldin Paraskevi , Hultström Michael , Tenhunen Jyrki
Published: October 2021

Background

Plasma hyaluronan concentrations are increased during sepsis but underlying mechanisms leading to high plasma hyaluronan concentration are poorly understood. In this study we evaluate the roles of plasma hyaluronan, effective plasma hyaluronidase (HYAL) activity and its endogenous plasma inhibition in clinical and experimental sepsis. We specifically hypothesized that plasma HYAL acts as endothelial glycocalyx shedding enzyme, sheddase.

Methods

Plasma hyaluronan, effective HYAL activity and HYAL inhibition were measured in healthy volunteers (n = 20), in patients with septic shock (n = 17, day 1 and day 4), in patients with acute pancreatitis (n = 7, day 1 and day 4) and in anesthetized and mechanically ventilated pigs (n = 16). Sixteen pigs were allocated (unblinded, open label) into three groups: Sepsis-1 with infusion of live Escherichia coli (E. coli) 1 × 108 CFU/h of 12 h (n = 5), Sepsis-2 with infusion of E. coli 1 × 108 CFU/h of 6 h followed by 1 × 109 CFU/h of the remaining 6 h (n = 5) or Control with no E. coli infusion (n = 6).

Results

In experimental E. coli porcine sepsis and in time controls, plasma hyaluronan increases with concomitant decrease in effective plasma HYAL activity and increase of endogenous HYAL inhibition. Plasma hyaluronan increased in patients with septic shock but not in acute pancreatitis. Effective plasma HYAL was lower in septic shock and acute pancreatitis as compared to healthy volunteers, while plasma HYAL inhibition was only increased in septic shock.

Conclusion

Elevated plasma hyaluronan levels coincided with a concomitant decrease in effective plasma HYAL activity and increase of endogenous plasma HYAL inhibition both in experimental and clinical sepsis. In acute pancreatitis, effective plasma HYAL activity was decreased which was not associated with increased plasma hyaluronan concentrations or endogenous HYAL inhibition. The results suggest that plasma HYAL does not act as sheddase in sepsis or pancreatitis.
Rice husk hydrochars from metal chloride-assisted hydrothermal carbonization as biosorbents of organics from aqueous solution
Authors: Li Yin , Hagos Fana Mulugeta , Chen Rongrong , Qian Hanxin , Mo Chengxing , Di Jing , Gai Xikun , Yang Ruiqin , Pan Genxing , Shan Shengdao
Published: October 2021

Hydrochar a carbon-rich material resulting from hydrothermal carbonization of biomass, has received substantial attention because of its potential application in various areas such as carbon sequestration, bioenergy production and environmental amelioration. A series of hydrochars were prepared by metal chloride-assisted hydrothermal carbonization of rice husk and characterized by elemental analysis, zeta potential, X-ray diffraction, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller measurements, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results reveal that the prepared hydrochars have carbon contents ranging from 45.01 to 58.71%, BET specific areas between 13.23 and 45.97 m2/g, and rich O-containing functional groups on the surfaces. The metal chlorides added in the feedwater could improve the degree of carbonization and show significant effects on the physical, chemical and adsorption properties of the hydrochars. The adsorption of the selected organics on the hydrochars is a spontaneous and physisorption-dominated process. The hydrochars possess larger adsorption capacities for 2-naphthol than for berberine hydrochloride and Congo red, and the modeling maximum adsorption capacities of 2-naphthol are in the range of 170.1–2680 mg/g. The adsorption equilibrium could be accomplished in 10, 40 and 30 min for 2-naphthol, berberine hydrochloride and Congo red, respectively. These results suggest metal chloride-assisted hydrothermal carbonization a promising method for converting biomass waste into effective adsorbents for wastewater treatment.
Polyhydroxyalkanoate production from rice straw hydrolysate obtained by alkaline pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis using Bacillus strains isolated from decomposing straw
Authors: Van Thuoc Doan , Chung Nguyen Thi , Hatti-Kaul Rajni
Published: October 2021

Rice straw is an important low-cost feedstock for bio-based economy. This report presents a study in which rice straw was used both as a source for isolation of bacteria producing the biodegradable polyester polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), as well as the carbon source for the production of the polymer by the isolated bacteria. Of the 100 bacterial isolates, seven were found to be positive for PHA production by Nile blue staining and were identified as Bacillus species by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Three isolates showed 100% sequence identity to B. cereus, one to B. paranthracis, two with 99 and 100% identity to B. anthracis, while one was closely similar to B. thuringiensis. For use in PHA production, rice straw was subjected to mild alkaline pretreatment followed by enzymatic hydrolysis. Comparison of pretreatment by 2% sodium hydroxide, 2% calcium hydroxide and 20% aqueous ammonia, respectively, at different temperatures showed maximum weight loss with NaOH at 80 °C for 5 h, but ammonia for 15 h at 80 °C led to highest lignin removal of 63%. The ammonia-pretreated rice straw also led to highest release of total reducing sugar up to 92% on hydrolysis by a cocktail of cellulases and hemicellulases at 50 °C. Cultivation of the Bacillus isolates on the pretreated rice straw revealed highest PHA content of 59.3 and 46.4%, and PHA concentration of 2.96 and 2.51 g/L by Bacillus cereus VK92 and VK98, respectively.
Fairness norm through social networks: a simulation approach
Authors: Rifki Omar , Ono Hirotaka
Published: October 2021

Recently there has been an increased interest in adopting game-theoretic models to social norms. Most of these approaches are generally lacking a structure linking the local level of the ‘norm’ interaction to its global ‘social’ nature. Although numerous studies examined local-interaction games, where the emphasis is placed on neighborhood relations, regarding social network as a whole unique entity seems to be quite limited. In this paper, we conduct a series of simulation experiments to examine the effects that a network topology could have on the speed of emergence of the social norm. The emphasis is placed on the fairness norm in the ultimatum game context, by considering three network type models (Barabási–Albert, Watts–Strogatz and Erdős–Rényi) and several intrinsic topological properties.
A 40-year evaluation of drivers of African rainforest change
Authors: Chapman Colin A. , Galán-Acedo Carmen , Gogarten Jan F. , Hou Rong , Lawes Michael J. , Omeja Patrick A. , Sarkar Dipto , Sugiyama Anna , Kalbitzer Urs
Published: October 2021

Background

Tropical forests are repositories of much of the world’s biodiversity and are critical for mitigation of climate change. Yet, the drivers of forest dynamics are poorly understood. This is in large part due to the lack of long-term data on forest change and changes in drivers.

Methodology

We quantify changes in tree abundance, diversity, and stand structure along transects first enumerated in 1978 and resampled 2019 in Kibale National Park, Uganda. We tested five predictions. First, based on the purported role of seed dispersal and herbivory and our quantification of changes in the abundance of frugivores and herbivores, we tested two predictions of how faunal change could have influenced forest composition. Second, based on an evaluation of life history strategies, we tested two predictions concerning how the forest could have changed following disturbance that happened prior to written history. Finally, based on a 50-year climate record, we evaluate the possible influence of climate change on forest dynamics.

Results

More trees were present on the assessed transects in 2019 (508) than in 1978 (436), species richness remained similar, but diversity declined as the number of dominant species increased. Rainfall increased by only 3 mm over the 50 years but this had not significant effect on forest changes measured here. Annual average monthly maximum temperature increased significantly by 1.05 °C over 50 years. The abundance of frugivorous and folivorous primates and elephants increased over the 50 years of monitoring. Neither the prediction that an increase in abundance of seed dispersing frugivores increases the abundance of their preferred fruiting tree species, nor that as an increase in folivore abundance causes a decline in their preferred species were supported. As predicted, light-demanding species decreased in abundance while shade-tolerant species increased as expected from Kibale being disturbed prior to historical records. Finally, while temperature increased over the 50 years, we found no means to predict a priori how individual species would respond.

Conclusions

Our study revealed subtle changes in the tree community over 40 years, sizable increases in primate numbers, a substantial increase in the elephant population and an increase in local temperature. Yet, a clear picture of what set of interactions impact the change in the tree community remains elusive. Our data on tree life-history strategies and frugivore/herbivore foraging preferences suggest that trees species are under opposing pressures.
Government commitments and teaching strategies for effective quality early childhood education in South Western Nigeria
Authors: Owojori Moyinoluwa Grace , Gbenga-Akanmu Taiwo Oladunni
Published: October 2021

This study assessed government commitment in fulfilling its obligations in ensuring quality early childhood education (ECE) as outlined in the National Policy on Education; examined the teaching strategies that teachers employed to ensure appropriate teaching and learning process; and assessed the challenges associated to teaching strategies used by teachers. A descriptive survey design was used. The population consisted of all ECE teachers and proprietors/proprietress. The sample comprised 150 teachers and 30 proprietors/proprietress of both public and private primary schools selected from two southwestern states of Nigeria using simple random sampling technique based on the availability of ECE class(es) in the study area. An instrument entitled “Government Commitment and Teaching Strategy for Effective Quality Early Childhood Education (GCTSQECE) was validated and used for data collection. The instrument has two sections with section A focusing on the demographic data of the participants while section B focused on governments involvement and teaching strategies employed by ECE teachers in having effective quality early childhood education. The instrument was validated using internal consistency while the Cronbach α reliability test coefficient of the GCTSQECE was 0.76. The data collected were analyzed using frequency and simple percentage. Results showed that there are not enough ECE professionals, few ECE departments in the universities, poor remuneration of teachers and that teachers employed the use of appropriate teaching strategies and improvised in most cases. It is therefore recommended that government should promote and support the training of teachers and implement ECE policy in primary schools.
Effect of heart rate control with amiodarone infusion on hemodynamic and clinical outcomes in septic shock patients with tachycardia: a prospective, single-arm clinical study
Authors: Khataminia Masoud , Najmeddin Farhad , Najafi Atabak , Sharifnia Hamidreza , Ahmadi Arezoo , Sahebnasagh Adeleh , Mojtahedzadeh Mojtaba
Published: October 2021

Background

Keeping the heart rate within the normal range has improved the survival of septic shock patients. Amiodarone could target the underlying pathophysiology of sepsis-induced tachycardia. This study aimed to determine whether amiodarone is effective in controlling the heart rate in critically ill patients with septic shock and sustained tachycardia who were receiving vasopressor.

Methods

In this prospective, single-arm cohort study, 46 patients with septic shock and tachycardia were enrolled to receive a loading dose of amiodarone 150 mg, then continuous infusion of 1 mg/min. The primary outcome was the ability of amiodarone in rate control lower than 95 beats per minute (BPM) and maintaining it during 24-h study period. We also recorded the effect of amiodarone on hemodynamic indices as the secondary outcomes.

Results

The results of the present study indicated a significant decrease in HR in septic shock patients for amiodarone, from 121.0 (116.5, 140.0) at baseline to 91.5(89.3, 108.0) at the end of the study period (p < 0.001). During the study period, a total of 26 (56.52%) of patients achieved the target heart rate lower than 95 BPM and maintained it during study period. Amiodarone decreased HR by 22.8 ± 13.7. While receiving amiodarone infusion, the values for heart rate, mean arterial pressure, cardiac index, norepinephrine infusion rate, and stroke volume index changed significantly between amiodarone initiation and 24-h follow-up (P < 0.001). Amiodarone was well tolerated, because this anti-arrhythmic agent did not increase the need for vasopressor and none of the patients experienced episodes of refractory hypotension.

Conclusion

This study showed that amiodarone infusion successfully reduced the heart rate in sepsis-induced tachycardia. The patients had improved hemodynamic state as indicated by an increase in cardiac index and SVI.
Aiming at Optimal Physical Activity for Longevity (OPAL)
Authors: Kopp Martin , Burtscher Martin
Published: October 2021

Although even small volumes (15–20 min) of daily physical activity (PA) are associated with health benefits, the optimal volume for healthy aging and longevity is substantially larger, amounting to about 100 min of daily moderate PA. The accomplishment of this objective likely requires the development of an appropriate PA lifestyle at an early age. Research initiatives are necessary addressing the motivational contribution of families, school surroundings and sport clubs, perhaps combined with role model effects and instructions for the specific implementation. Such approaches would need an enlarged agreement in readdressing this new aim followed by the launch of a new research strategy in order to develop specific offers for the respective age cohorts.
Are Leg Muscle, Tendon and Functional Characteristics Associated with Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome? A Systematic Review
Authors: Mattock Joshua P. M. , Steele Julie R. , Mickle Karen J.
Published: October 2021

Background

Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) is a common overuse injury that lacks effective evidence-based treatment options. Reduced leg girth has been associated with MTSS development because it is hypothesised to impair the ability of the leg to modulate tibial loading generated during foot–ground contact. Measuring total leg girth, however, does not provide specific information about the structural composition or functional capacity of individual leg muscles. Consequently, uncertainty remains as to which specific muscles are compromised and contribute to MTSS development. Therefore, this paper aimed to systematically review the body of literature pertaining to how the structure and function of the leg muscles are thought to be associated with MTSS injury.

Methods

The review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). Medline, PubMed, SCOPUS, SPORTDiscus with Full-texts and Web of Science were searched until March 2021 to identify articles in which lower limb muscle structural or functional variables associated with MTSS injury were investigated.

Results

Seventeen studies, which were predominately case–control in design and captured data from 332 individuals with MTSS symptoms and 694 control participants, were deemed appropriate for review. The average Downs and Black Quality Assessment score was 71.7 ± 16.4%, with these articles focussing on leg girth, tendon abnormalities, muscle strength and endurance, shear modulus and neuromuscular control. Of the risk factors assessed in the 17 studies, decreased lean leg girth and higher peak soleus muscle activity during propulsion were most strongly correlated with MTSS development. Individuals with MTSS also displayed deficits in ankle plantar flexor endurance, greater isokinetic concentric eversion strength, increased muscle shear modulus and altered neuromuscular recruitment strategies compared to asymptomatic controls.

Conclusions

Future prospective studies are required to confirm whether decreased lean leg girth and higher peak soleus muscle activity during propulsion are associated with MTSS development and to elucidate whether these structural and functional differences in the leg muscles between MTSS symptomatic and asymptomatic controls are a cause or effect of MTSS.
Post-weaning diarrhea in pigs weaned without medicinal zinc: risk factors, pathogen dynamics, and association to growth rate
Authors: Eriksen Esben Østergaard , Kudirkiene Egle , Christensen Anja Ejlersgård , Agerlin Marianne Viuf , Weber Nicolai Rosager , Nødtvedt Ane , Nielsen Jens Peter , Hartmann Katrine Top , Skade Lotte , Larsen Lars Erik , Pankoke Karen , Olsen John Elmerdahl , Jensen Henrik Elvang , Pedersen Ken Steen
Published: October 2021

Background

Porcine post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) has reemerged as an important topic in pig production, as common control strategies based on prophylactic use of antimicrobials and zinc oxide have been deemed unsustainable. The objectives of this study were to estimate the cumulative incidence of porcine post-weaning diarrhea with different etiologies in production systems weaning without zinc oxide and prophylactic antimicrobials, to assess risk factors for post-weaning diarrhea, and to estimate the impact of post-weaning diarrhea on growth rate. A cohort study was conducted at two commercial indoor producers weaning without medicinal zinc oxide and prophylactic antimicrobials.

Results

Piglets were included at birth (n = 300) and 272 survived until weaning. After insertion to the nursery units, the piglets were clinically examined every day for 14 days, and rectal swabs were collected and analyzed for enterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC) and rotavirus A. The cumulative incidences of PWD the first 14 days after insertion to the nursery units were 41.8% (CI 33.6, 50.4) and 51.1% (CI 42.3, 60.0) at the two producers, respectively. We found a low incidence of cases associated to ETEC, and detected a substantial proportion of cases associated to rotavirus. We observed a biphasic pattern in the assumed etiology with rotavirus occurring first, and then a shift towards cases associated to ETEC/non-ETEC hemolyticE. coli.Being offspring of older sows was a protective factor for the development of PWD (Hazard ratio = 0.88 [CI 0.78, 0.99] per unit increase in parity of the dam). Low birth weight reduced the post-weaning growth rate (− 5.2 g/day [CI − 7.5, − 2.9] per 100 g decrease in birthweight) and increased the hazard of developing PWD (Hazard ratio for birthweight below 1100 g: 2.30 [CI 1.41–3.74]). The combined effect of having diarrhea for 2 days or more and receiving antimicrobial treatment was associated with an increased average daily weight gain.

Conclusions

This study suggests novel insights regarding pathogen dynamics and risk factors for PWD in productions not using prophylactic antimicrobials and medicinal zinc. The findings may have important implications for both antimicrobial usage and prevention strategies.
To control floating drug delivery system in a simulated gastric environment by adjusting the Shell layer formulation
Authors: Hsu Yu-Tung , Kao Chen-Yu , Ho Ming-Hua , Lee Shiao-Pieng
Published: October 2021

Background

Gastroretentive drug delivery system (GDDS) are novel systems that have been recently developed for treating stomach diseases. The key function of all GDDS systems is to control the retention time in the stomach. However, research into the bulk density or entanglement of polymers, especially regarding their effects on drug float and release times, is scarce.

Methods

In this research, we prepared the floating core-shell beads carrying tetracycline. The ratio of chitosan and xanthan gum in the shell layer was changed to modify polymer compactness. Tetracycline was encapsulated in the alginate core.

Results

Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques, we observed that the shell formulation did not change the bead morphology. The cross-sectional images showed that the beads were highly porous. The interaction between anionic xanthan gum and cationic chitosan made the shell layer dense, resisting to the mass transfer in the shell layer. Due to the high mass transfer resistance to water penetration, the longer float and delivery time were caused by the dense surface of the beads. The cell culture demonstrated that floating core-shell beads were biocompatible. Importantly, the beads with tetracycline showed a significant prolonged anti-bacterial effect.

Conclusion

Research results proved that the floating and releasing progress of core-shell beads can be well controlled by adjusting the shell layer formulation that could promote the function of gastroretentive drugs.
ι-Carrageenan nanocomposites for enhanced stability and oral bioavailability of curcumin
Authors: Lee Joo Young , Lee Sanghee , Choi Jang Ho , Na Kun
Published: October 2021

Background

Carrageenan (CRN), a polygalactan consisting of 15 to 40% ester sulfate, is used in oral controlled-release technology due to its viscosity and large molecular weight. Curcumin (Cur) is a highly potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent against various diseases, such as tumors, liver disease, rheumatism, and Alzheimer’s disease. Although Cur shows excellent effects in the body, it has major problems, such as poor solubility and low bioavailability in water.

Method

Nanocomposites containing Cur were developed by emulsion technique. Cur@CRN was characterized through the viscosity measurement, size analysis, stability test, and loading efficiency. Antioxidant effects was analyzed with DPPH reagent, and anti-inflammatory effects was analyzed by NFkB/IkBr signaling pathway with wester blot. Cellular interaction was confirmed by flow cytometry and confocal images. Especially, permeability test was demonstrated in MDCK and Caco-2 monolayer cells.

Results

Cur@CRN enhanced stability, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro, compared with other polymer nanocomposites. Sulfate groups (SO
4
2−
) in CRN are transported across cell membranes by anion exchangers of the SLC26 gene families. We confirmed Caco-2 cells expressed SLC26A2 receptors interacted with CRN, expect for Tween 80 and hydroxypropyl cellulose. In contrary, other cells did not interact with CRN due to non-expression of SLC26A2 receptors. Based on this, Cur@CRN showed 44-fold better permeability than free Cur in MDCK cell assay.

Conclusion

Enhanced intestinal permeability of Cur can be applied in various health care facilities with significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects compared with nonformulated Cur. Since the CRN composed of nanocomposites has a high molecular weight, high viscosity, and sulfate groups, it will be a platform that can increase the bioavailability of various insoluble drugs as well as Cur.
A rapid realist review of patient engagement in patient-oriented research and health care system impacts: part one
Authors: Zibrowski Elaine , Carr Tracey , McDonald Shelagh , Thiessen Heather , van Dusen Ray , Goodridge Donna , Haver Charlene , Marciniuk Darcy , Stobart Christine , Verrall Tanya , Groot Gary
Published: October 2021

Background

Patient-oriented research affords individuals with opportunities to genuinely contribute to health care research as members of research teams. While checklists and frameworks can support academic researchers’ awareness of patient engagement methods, less guidance appears available to support their understanding of how to develop and maintain collaborative relationships with their patient partners. This knowledge is essential as patient partners report that the social atmospheres of research teams significantly impacts the quality of their experiences. This study sought to develop theory regarding how academic researchers support and sustain patient engagement in patient-oriented research.

Methods

A six-step, rapid realist review was conducted: (1) research question development, (2) preliminary theory development, (3) search strategy development; (4) study selection and appraisal, (4) data extraction, analysis and synthesis (5) identification of relevant formal theories, and (6) theory refinement with stakeholders. Findings were additionally distilled by collective competence theory.

Results

A program theory was developed from 62 international studies which illuminated mechanisms supporting academic researchers to engage patient partners, contexts supporting these mechanisms, and resources that enabled mechanism activation. Interaction between seven contexts (patient-oriented research belief, prior interaction with a healthcare system, prior interaction with a particular academic researcher, educational background of patient partner, prior experience with patient-oriented research, study type, and time lived in a rural-urban setting) and seven mechanisms (deciding to become involved in patient-oriented research, recognizing valuable experiential knowledge, cultural competence, reducing power differentials, respectful team environment, supporting patient partners to feel valued, and readiness to research) resulted in an intermediate outcome (sense of trust). Trust then acted as an eighth mechanism which triggered the final-level outcome (empowered patient-centred lens).

Conclusions

Our theory posits that if patient partners trust they are a member of a supportive team working alongside academic researchers who authentically want to incorporate their input, then they are empowered to draw upon their experiential knowledge of health care systems and contribute as researchers in patient-oriented research. Our theory extends conceptual thinking regarding the importance of trust on patient-oriented research teams, how patient partners’ trust is shaped by team interactions, and the role that academic researchers have within those interactions.
Evolving partnerships: engagement methods in an established health services research team
Authors: Chamberlain Stephanie A. , Gruneir Andrea , Keefe Janice M. , Berendonk Charlotte , Corbett Kyle , Bishop Roberta , Bond Graham , Forbes Faye , Kieloch Barbara , Mann Jim , Thelker Christine , Estabrooks Carole A.
Published: October 2021

Background

The Translating Research in Elder Care (TREC) program is a partnered health services research team that aims to improve the quality of care and quality of life for residents and quality of worklife for staff in nursing homes. This team includes academic researchers, trainees, research staff, citizens (persons living with dementia and family/friend caregivers of persons living in nursing homes), and decision-makers (ministries of health, health authorities, operators of nursing homes). The TREC team has experience working with health system partners but wanted to undertake activities to enhance the collaboration between the academic researchers and citizen members. The aim of this paper is to describe the TREC team members’ experiences and perceptions of citizen engagement and identify necessary supports to promote meaningful engagement in health research teams.

Methods

We administered two online surveys (May 2018, July 2019) to all TREC team members (researchers, trainees, staff, decision-makers, citizens). The surveys included closed and open-ended questions guided by regional and international measures of engagement and related to respondents’ experience with citizen engagement, their perceptions of the benefits and challenges of citizen engagement, and their needs for training and other tools to support engagement. We analyzed the closed-ended responses using descriptive statistics.

Results

We had a 78% response rate (68/87) to the baseline survey, and 27% response rate (21/77) to the follow-up survey. At baseline, 30 (44%) of respondents reported they were currently engaged in a research project with citizen partners compared to 11(52%) in the follow-up survey. Nearly half (10(48%)) of the respondents in the follow-up reported an increase in citizen engagement over the previous year. Respondents identified many benefits to citizen engagement (unique perspectives, assistance with dissemination) and challenges (the need for specific communication skills, meeting organizing and facilitation, and financial/budget support), with little change between the two time points. Respondents reported that the amount of citizen engagement in their research (or related projects) had increased or stayed the same.

Conclusions

Despite increasing recognition of the benefits of including persons with lived experience and large-scale promotion efforts, the research team still lack sufficient training and resources to engage non-academic partners. Our research identified specific areas that could be addressed to improve the engagement of citizens in health research.
Cisplatin, environmental metals, and cardiovascular disease: an urgent need to understand underlying mechanisms
Authors: Clasen Suparna C. , Dinh Paul C. , Hou Lifang , Fung Chunkit , Sesso Howard D. , Travis Lois B.
Published: October 2021

Significantly increased risks of cardiovascular disease occur in testicular cancer survivors given cisplatin-based chemotherapy. The postulated mechanism of platinum-based chemotherapy’s vascular toxicity has been thought secondary to its different early- and late- effects on vascular injury, endothelial dysfunction, and induction of a hypercoagulable state. We highlight for the first time the similarities between platinum-associated vascular adverse events and the vascular toxicity associated with other xenobiotic-metal contaminants. The vascular toxicity seen in large epidemiologic studies of testicular cancer survivors may in part be similar and mechanistically linked to the risk seen in environmental heavy metal contaminants linked to cardiovascular disease. Future research should be directed to better understand the magnitude of the adverse cardiovascular effects of platinum and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Impact of the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and interventions to contain the virus on society and patients with kidney disease in Cambodia
Authors: Nov Tam , Hyodo Toru , Kitajima Yukie , Kokubo Kenichi , Naganuma Toshihide , Wakai Haruki , Yamashita Akihiro , Phon Elin , Kawanishi Hideki
Published: October 2021

Cambodia detected its first case of COVID-19 just 3 days before WHO declared that the outbreak constituted as PHEIC. As of February 15, 2021, and after two major outbreaks, only 479 cases had been reported, 396 (83%) of which were imported. This small number of cases was largely thanks to stringent measures and policies put in place by the government to curb the spread. Despite these efforts, a third cluster outbreak was declared on February 20, 2021. It has disrupted all aspects of life in Cambodia. As in many other countries affected by the virus, economic hardship, lockdowns in cities, and food insecurity ensued. Against the backdrop of this widespread impact on the citizens of Cambodia, we conducted this review article to better understand the situation of healthcare workers in nephrology and dialysis patients and the challenge they face in providing and receiving essential medical care. Healthcare providers have continued working to serve their patients despite facing a high risk of catching SARS-CoV-2 and other challenges including difficulties in traveling to work, increased physical and mental burden, and higher stress due to measures taken to minimize the risk of transmission during patients’ care. Some healthcare workers have been discriminated against by neighbors. The most difficult mission is when having to deal with families whose loved one is denied access to a hemodialysis session due to suspected COVID-19 while waiting for PCR test results. Hemodialysis patients reported facing economic hardship and increasingly difficult circumstances. When access to food is limited, patients have eaten canned or dried salted food rather than an appropriate hemodialysis diet. Because hemodialysis centers are concentrated in a few cities, access has become even harder during the travel ban. In-center hemodialysis rules are stricter and does not allow family members or escorts to enter the unit. Only a few hemodialysis patients have been vaccinated. Before COVID-19, hemodialysis patients already faced major burdens. The pandemic appears to be decreasing their quality of life and survival even further. Through this study, we have revealed current hardships and the need to improve the situations for both healthcare workers in nephrology and hemodialysis patients in Cambodia.
The effect of transcranial direct current stimulation of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex on performing a sequential dual task: a randomized experimental study
Authors: Abedanzadeh Rasool , Alboghebish Saeed , Barati Parisa
Published: October 2021

When it comes to simultaneous processing of two tasks, information processing capacity is usually below par and not desirable. Therefore, this preliminary study aimed to investigate the effect of transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on performing dual tasks. Twenty-six students (average age 25.2 ± 2.43 years) were selected and then randomly divided into experimental and sham groups. All of the participants conducted the Stroop effect test in a dual task situation before and after the tDCS. This test included two intervals between the stimuli of 100 and 900 ms. The results of mixed-ANOVA showed that the average second reaction time of the experimental stimulated group was reduced (in both dual tasks with congruent and incongruent stimuli) significantly after the tDCS. Therefore, it can be stated that the tDCS of the DLPFC increases the information processing speed and the capacity of attention and, as a result, decreases the effect of the psychological refractory period.
Measuring respiratory symptoms in moderate/severe asthma: evaluation of a respiratory symptom tool, the E-RS®: COPD in asthma populations
Authors: Tabberer Maggie , von Maltzahn Robyn , Bacci Elizabeth D. , Karn Hayley , Hsieh Ray , Howell Timothy A. , Bailes Zelie , Fowler Andrew , Lee Laurie , Murray Lindsey T.
Published: October 2021

Background

Symptom constructs included in the Evaluating Respiratory Symptoms in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (E-RS®: COPD) tool may be relevant to patients with asthma. The purpose of this study was to evaluate content validity and psychometric performance of the E-RS: COPD in moderate/severe asthma patients.

Methods

Content validity of the E-RS: COPD was evaluated in patients with moderate/severe asthma using concept elicitation and cognitive debriefing interviews. Secondary analyses using data from two clinical trials in patients with moderate/severe asthma evaluated the factor structure of the E-RS: COPD plus two supplementary items (wheeze; shortness of breath with strenuous physical activity) and assessed psychometric properties of the tool, which will be referred to as E-RS®: Asthma when used in asthma populations.

Results

Qualitative interviews (N = 25) achieved concept saturation for asthma respiratory symptoms. Concepts in the E-RS: COPD were relevant to patients and instructions were understood. Most patients (19/25; 76%) reported experiencing all concepts in the E-RS: COPD; no patients indicated missing symptoms. Secondary analyses of clinical trial data supported the original factor structure (RS-Total and three symptom-specific subscales). The two supplemental items did not fit with this factor structure and were not retained. RS-Total and subscale score reliability was high (internal consistency [α] > 0.70). Validity was demonstrated through significant (P < 0.0001) relationships with the St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) and Asthma Symptom Severity scale. E-RS: Asthma was responsive to change when evaluated using SGRQ, Patient Global Impression of Change and Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire as anchors (P < 0.0001). Clinically meaningful change thresholds were also identified (RS-Total: − 2.0 units).

Conclusions

The E-RS: Asthma is reliable and responsive for evaluating respiratory symptoms in patients with moderate/severe asthma.
Exposure of Exiguobacterium spp. to dengue vector, Aedes aegypti reduces growth and reproductive fitness
Authors: Rajagopal Gopalan , Ilango Sakkanan
Published: October 2021

Background

Aedes aegyptiis a major insect vector because it transmits dreadful viruses as adults that cause disease in humans and other vertebrates. The use of mosquito’s microbiota has shown great potential impacts on vector control and mosquito reproductive competence. The present study aimed to examine the resident bacteria of mosquitoes which are used as a potent range to reduce theA. aegyptifitness. Isolated resident-bacterial strains from blood-fedAedesspecies were characterized using gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, to assess the inhabitant bacterial strains survival rate inA. aegyptimidgut, instar developmental duration, malformation and reproductive competence.

Results

The genetic distinctiveness of isolated bacterial strains belong to the genusExiguobacteriumspp. and further non-redundant nucleotide database search revealed that the species of effective strains wereE. aestuarii(MN629357) andE. profundum(MN625885). Exposure of the freshly hatched larvae with these bacteria cell densities extended the developmental duration. For instance, exposure ofA. aegyptilarva with 0.42 × 108, 0.84 × 108and 1.68 × 108cells/mL ofE. aestuariiextended the total developmental duration to 11.41, 14.29 and 14.78 days, respectively. It also reduced the fecundity and hatchability ofA. aegyptifemale, with exposure to these bacteria, from 1033.33 eggs/10 females in the control series to 656.67 eggs/10 females.

Conclusions

These present findings indicate that the resident-bacterial strains from blood-fed mosquito not only extend the larval durations but also rendered theA. aegyptifemales sterile to various extents.
Screening of factors that influence the preparation of Dialium guineense pods active carbon for use in methylene blue adsorption: a full factorial experimental design
Authors: Jasper Enebi Estella , Onwuka Jude Chinedu , Bidam Yakubu Manasseh
Published: October 2021

Background

The use of active carbons derived from waste biomass as adsorbents in the remediation of wastewater remains a valuable and cost-effective technology when compared to the use of commercial active carbon for the same purpose. This research aims at using a 2-level full factorial design (FFD) to efficiently evaluate factors that influence the preparation of active carbon from the waste pods of the Dialium guineense seeds. The influence of three preparation factors (concentration of the activating agent, activation time, and type of activating agent) on the active carbon yield and its adsorption capacity for methylene blue were investigated. Based on the full factorial design, two regression models were developed to correlate the factors to the two responses. From an analysis of variance (ANOVA), the most significant factors influencing each response were identified. The active carbon preparation conditions were then optimized by maximizing both the active carbon yield and its adsorption capacity for Methylene Blue. The functional group and surface morphology of the active carbon prepared under the predicted optimum conditions was analyzed via Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) respectively.

Results

The results of this study revealed that the concentration of the activating agent had the most significant effect on the yield of the active carbon produced as well as on its adsorption capacity for methylene blue. The optimum preparation process conditions were found to be: concentration of activating agent 5M, activation time 30 min and activating agent, NaOH which resulted in an active carbon yield of 21.25%, and an adsorption capacity of 9.33509 mg MB per gram of active carbon. SEM and FTIR showed evidence of successful activation.

Conclusion

The preparation of Dialium guineense seed pods' active carbon is strongly influenced by concentration and type of activating agent used. Reliable statistical models based on the FFD proved to be useful in identifying factors that significantly influence the preparation of Dialium guineense seed pods' active carbon. The active carbon holds great potential for application in the elimination of hazardous synthetic dyes from wastewater and should be explored further.
Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of “Trapeziometacarpal Arthrosis Symptoms and Disability—TASD” into Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: de Souza Almeida Vinícius Alexandre , Fernandes Carlos Henrique , Meireles Lia Miyamoto , Faloppa Flavio , Ejnisman Benno , Cohen Moises
Published: October 2021

Background

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of hand arthritis and arthritis of the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb is a potentially limiting disease. There is no homogeneity in the evaluation of outcomes for the rhizarthrosis treatment. In an attempt to standardize the evaluation of results, some subjective questionnaires, non-specific, were used to evaluate rhizarthrosis. Trapeziometacarpal Arthrosis Symptoms and Disability (TASD) was described by Becker et al.with the purpose of evaluating symptom intensity and degree of disability, as to compare results after treatment. Our objective is to translate, validate and do the cultural adaptation of the questionnaire TASD into the Brazilian Portuguese.

Methods

The questionnaire was translated, with reverse translation. The translations were evaluated and synthesized by a committee, arriving at TASD-BR. Thirty-one patients with a diagnosis of rhizarthrosis answered the questionnaire. We evaluated, the internal consistency, reliability, agreement and ceiling and floor effect for validation.

Results

The questionnaires were translated and adapted according to defined protocols. The internal consistency, through Cronbach's α coefficient for TASD-BR, was 0.927. The questionnaire's reliability, through the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient, was also shown to be quite high, with κ = 0.961 (0.954–0.967). The agreement, measured through the Standard Error Measurement, remained with standardized values below 5%. There was no ceiling and floor effect.

Conclusion

Through specific methodology we consider TASD-BR translated and valid for the Brazilian Portuguese.