bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A broadband flow energy harvester induced by the wake of a bluff body
Authors: Jiang Wen-An , Ma Xin-dong , Wang Yong , Liu Mao , Chen Li-qun , Bi Qinsheng
Published: March 2021

Wake galloping energy harvesting have been extensively developed to scavenge flow energy from vortex-induced oscillations. Hence, the wake-galloping harvester only has a natural frequency which leads to a very narrow bandwidth. Therefore, it does not operate well under the wide region of shedding frequencies in variable wind speed. To overcome the vital issue, this paper we explored a novel two-degree-of-freedom nonlinear flow energy harvester to collect flow energy induced by the wake of a bluff body. The nonlinear restoring force is realized by using a repulsive magnetic force between two cuboid-shaped permanent magnets, and the electromechanical coupling equations is presented. Based on the method of harmonic balance, the electromechanical governing equations is decoupled, and the first order harmonic solutions are implemented. The modulation equations are established, the amplitude-frequency figures of displacement and voltage are depicted with different detuning parameters. The superiority of the presented energy harvester is contrasted with the single-degree-of-freedom linear and nonlinear cases, the results revealed that the two-degree-of-freedom nonlinear scheme can enhance the bandwidth of flow energy capture. The effect of physical parameters on the scavenged power is discussed. The accuracy and efficiency of the approximate analytical data are examined by numerical simulations.
Adaptations of market garden producers to climate change in southern Mali
Authors: SOUMAORO Tiémoko
Published: March 2021

This article aims to identify the factors that influence the choice of adaptation measures by market garden producers in the extreme south of Mali in the face of climate change. The study used a multinomial logit regression model based on data collected from producers. Interviews with 194 producers were conducted in 3 circles in the southern region: Sikasso, Koutiala and Bougouni. The results of the multinomial logit model indicate that the mode of access to land, access to information on climate change, agricultural extension, agricultural experience and access to credit are the main endogenous strategies developed by producers to counteract the impacts of climate change. Finally, in order to consolidate these different strategies developed by producers, campaigns to raise awareness among producers on the importance of adapting to climate change should be encouraged.
The environmental impact of remittance inflows in developing countries: Evidence from method of moments quantile regression
Authors: Elbatanony Mahmoud , Attiaoui Imed , Ali Ibrahim Mohamed Ali , Nasser Nahla , Tarchoun Monaem
Published: March 2021

Despite the importance of remittance inflows as potential source of incomes for recipient households and one of main contributors to the development process in various developing countries, their environmental effects have been largely neglected in empirical literature. To fill this gap, the current study proposes an extension of the conventional environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) by performing a modified version based on remittance inflows in both Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) from 1980 to 2014. Using the novel method of moments quantile regression with fixed effect (MM-QR), the outcomes provide evidence of an inverted N-Shaped EKC for remittances at higher CO2 emitters in lower-middle income countries (LMIC), proving that remittances allow recipient households to shift towards clean energy pattern (production/consumption). We find U-Shaped EKC for remittances from the 40th to 80th quantiles in upper middle-income countries (UMIC) along with monotonic negative effect on CO2 emissions at highest quantiles (90th and 95th ). No significant effect on environment has been outlined at lower CO2 emitters for all panels. Regarding GDP per capita, an inverted N-Shaped EKC has been observed across all quantiles in UMIC and from lower to middle quantiles in Low-income countries (LIC). Finally, financial development (FD), as control variable, exerts significant mixed effect on CO2 emissions, swung between positive at all quantiles in LMIC and UMIC and negative at lower quantiles in LIC. Some recommendations were further built in the present study.
Efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (Active TENS versus Sham TENS) on hemodynamic stability and renal tissue perfusion guided by NGAL test for patients with hypovolemic shock - A prospective randomized clinical study
Authors: Mahgoub Asmaa Aly , mahran Ghada shalby , Abas Mostafa Samy , allah Ahmed Mohamed Aly Obied , Abd-Elkader Alaa Soliman , Abdel-Naeem Manal Mohamed , Ahmed Ahmed Talaat , Elzohry Alaa Ali M
Published: March 2021

Background: Hypovolemic shock occurs due to many causes and it has complex patho-physiology which finally leads to decreased all organs perfusion. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) consists of a generic application of low-frequency, pulsed electrical currents transmitted by electrodes through the skin surface to stimulate the primary afferent pathways (peripheral nerves) to produce various physiological effects.Objective: Was to evaluate the effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation application on the renal tissue perfusion and hemodynamic stability for patients with hypovolemic shock.Design: A prospective, single-blind, randomized, sham-controlled trial. Patients were randomized into two groups (active TENS versus sham TENS). Active TENS group received resuscitation protocol and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation while sham TENS group received resuscitation protocol only.Setting: Data was collected from general and obstetric ICU.Main Outcome Measures: Improvement of renal tissue perfusion was considered the primary outcome and secondary outcomes was improvement of hemodynamic parameters.Results: TENS application had caused a highly statistical significant change in serum Creatinine and NGAL test (74.43 ± 7.16 in active TENS versus 114.48 ± 13.6 2 in sham TENS) and (7.35 ± 0.7716 in active TENS versus 20.76 ± 2.11 in sham TENS) (P = 0.007 & P= 0.000) respectively. There was highly statistical significant difference before treatment and after treatment regarding urea, creatinine and NGAL test in the control group (P= 0.002 & P= 0.006& P= 0.000) respectively and there was highly statistical significant difference before treatment and after treatment in TENS group regarding to serum Creatinine (P= 0.003).Conclusion: We concluded the following; Application of TENS is extremely effective on improvement of renal tissue perfusion and and hemodynamic parameters. Also TENS should be used as a nursing intervention to maintain hemodynamic stability in patients with hypovolemic shock in the intensive care unit and we found patients with hypovolemic shock who received active TENS had better outcomes than patients who received sham TENS.
Bioindication of heavy metals using bryophyte communities in the Songtao manganese carbonate ore region, China
Authors: He Chunmei , Zhang Zhaohui , Wang Zhihui , Shi Kuangzheng , Wu Qimei , Wang Dengfu
Published: March 2021

Mining and mineral processing are often associated with heavy metal pollution. To reflect the environmental conditions of manganese carbonate ore deposits and of the area surrounding an electrolytic manganese plant, we analyzed the composition and species diversity of bryophyte communities and determined the differences in bryophyte communities related to the content of heavy metals in the substrate. We found that Pottiaceae and Bryaceae were the dominant families in the study area. The species abundance index of bryophyte communities at different locations was in order: vicinity of the mine > mine site > herb-shrubland > electrolytic plant > electrolytic waste dump. The species diversity of bryophyte communities at different locations was in order: herb-shrubland > vicinity of the mine > electrolytic waste dump > mine site > electrolytic plant. Significant differences between heavy metal contents of the substrate were found among the different locations with the exception of Co (p < 0.05). Mn contents were significantly different at each location (p < 0.05). CCA showed that Mn, Cd, Hg, and Pb content in the substrate were the major factors affecting the characteristics of the bryophyte communities. From the combination of CCA with the correlation heat map, it can be inferred that Hg, Mn, and Cu all have an adverse effect on bryophyte communities in the vicinity of the mine and in the herb-shrubland. Thus the determination of the characteristics of bryophyte communities allows ready identification of the impact of heavy metals on the environment, in turn providing a mechanism for decision-making in terms of pollution management and biodiversity protection.
Multi-Site Infections Caused by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus in a Six-Year Old Girl: A Rare Case Report
Authors: xiao pei , Liu Jing , Yang Xue , Wang Yixue , Chen Weiming , Wang Chuanqing , Liu Qian , Shen Quanli , Lu Guoping , Yan Gangfeng
Published: March 2021

Background

Community-associated Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is an emerging pathogen that leads to severe outcomes, especially in pediatric patients with multiple site infections.
Case presentation:

We report a case of a multiple organ and life-threatening infection caused by CA-MRSA in a 6-year-old girl who manifested sepsis, myelitis, purulent arthritis, purulent meningitis, hydropericardium, pneumonia, and empyema. The girl exhibited good response to the combination therapy of linezolid and rifampicin after treatment with vancomycin failed due to delay in achieving target serum concentration. We performed pleural effusion and hydropericardium effusion drainage and treated left lower limb infection using interdisciplinary approaches.
Conclusion

This case highlights the need to be aware of CA-MRSA infection, which requires accurate diagnosis, identification of site infection, appropriate antibiotic treatment, and surgical debridement.
Development and Application of a Method to Detect 27 Respiratory Pathogens Using Multiplex RT-PCR Combined with MassARRAY Technology
Authors: Zhao Huan , Yang Yichao , Lyu Jiangfeng , Ren Xuyi , Cheng Wei
Published: March 2021

Background: Respiratory tract infections are the most common infections that lead to morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early recognition and precise diagnosis of microbial etiology is important to treat LRTIs promptly, specifically and effectively.Objectives: To establish a method based on multiplex reverse transcription (MRT)-PCR and MassARRAY technology for the simultaneous detection of 27 respiratory pathogens and explore its clinical application value.Methods: Analytical sensitivity and specificity of the MRT-PCR-MassARRAY system were validated using inactivated bacterial and viral strains. Also we analyzed samples from 207 patients by MassARRAY methods and compared the results with consensus PCR/reverse transcription (RT)-PCR.Results: The minimum detection limit of our MRT-PCR-MassARRAY method for pathogens was 10–100 copies/µl, with high specificity. Comparison test with consensus PCR/RT-PCR on 207 clinical samples, the positive, negative, and total correlation rates were 100%, 98.68%, and 99.03%, respectively. There was a high degree of agreement between the test results of the two methods (P < 0.01 by McNemar’s test).Conclusion: Our detection system of 27 respiratory pathogens based on MassARRAY technology has high sensitivity and specificity, high throughput, and is simple to operate. It provides diagnostic value for the clinical diagnosis of respiratory pathogens and is of great significance in the screening of respiratory pathogens.
Research on Light-Dark Adaptation of Human Vision in Tunnel Portals
Authors: Liu Changjiang , Wang Qiuping
Published: March 2021

To study the characteristics of light and dark adaptation in tunnel portal sections and to determine the influencing factors of light-dark vision adaptation, basic tunnel lighting and linear design data are obtained. In this paper, we use a light-shielded tent to simulate the dark environment of a tunnel in experiments, observe the driver recognition time of target objects during the light-dark adaptation process, and analyze the light-dark adaptation time of human vision. Based on a large number of experimental data, we examined the relationship between age, gender, illuminance and light and dark adaptation times and established a model of the relationship between age, illuminance and light and dark adaptation times. The experimental results revealed that the dark adaptation time is generally longer than the light adaptation time. The dark adaptation time is positively related to age and basically exhibits a cubic relationship. There is no significant correlation between the light adaptation time and age, but the overall trend is that the light adaptation time gradually increases with increasing age. There is no correlation between gender and light and dark adaptation times, but there is a notable correlation between the light and dark adaptation times and illuminance. When the illuminance ranges from 11000-13000 lux, the light and dark adaptation times are the longest.
Opportunistic citizen science data could be a faster and more efficient way to detect and monitor the spread of invasive species especially in developing countries: The case of harlequin ladybird Harmonia axyridis in Algeria.
Authors: atoussi sadek , Razkallah Imane , Zebsa Rabah , Bensakhri Zinette , Bara Mouslim
Published: March 2021

Accelerated spread of the non-native species Harmonia axyridis in Algeria may pose problem to local biodiversity, and new challenges to natural resource management, and economies. Three new records of this species have been detected in different part of the country via an investigation on social media platforms and, in a citizen science database. Our findings indicate the presence of the species in at least three localities, more than 400 km away for the most distant of them, and highlighted the important role of citizen science in developing countries where the funding of doing research in that field almost non-existent.
A global bibliometric analysis of research on microplastics from 2004 to 2020
Authors: Li Ming , Liu Binshuo , Wu Lei , Zhong Shuang , Wang Chunqing , Wang Ying , Shen Mengnan , Li Na , Liang Shuang , Xue Honghai , Zhao Pengfei
Published: March 2021

Microplastics (MPs) pollution has garnered significant interest as a serious environmental problem. To date, a large amount of research has been published on this topic. We analyzed the related studies to assess the global developments of MPs regarding the evolution, research trends, and hotspots by bibliometric. A total of 2,872 bibliographic records were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection, and CiteSpace 5.4 was used for bibliometrics. The results visually displayed the contributing countries, institutions, authors, keywords, and potential research directions in the MPs fields. The scientific developments in this field began in 2004 and have accelerated considerably since 2012. China and the USA are the leading countries in MPs research. The research on MPs is multidisciplinary and involves Ecology, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Environmental Science, and Oceanography. Among these, Oceanography was the most connected with MPs and was the most well-developed. Overall, we mapped the development of MPs research and attempted a comprehensive discussion and understanding of scientific advances, as well as the progress made.
Stability of switched systems with admissible switching signals
Authors: Wang Hui-Ting , He Yong , Wang Qing-Guo , Zhang Chuan-Ke , Wu Min
Published: March 2021

In this paper, stability of switched systems is investigated for a class of switching signals which meet some admissibility conditions. Firstly, the admissible edge-dependent divergence time is defined in terms of admissible transition edges and it will vary with the compensation bounds. Then the admissible edge-dependent bounded maximum average dwell time (BMADT) is imposed on switching signals. As a result, a sufficient condition is obtained for globally uniformly exponential stability of switched nonlinear systems with such switching signals. Secondly, by setting the equal compensation bounds for the same reaching subsystems, the mode-dependent divergence time is defined, and then the mode-dependent BMADT is proposed. A stability condition under the mode-dependent BMADT is established. These stability results are then applied to switched linear systems. The numerical example is presented to show that the proposed techniques are less restrictive and more flexible in application, compared with the BMADT.
Comparison of hip structure analysis and grip strength between femoral neck and basicervical fractures
Authors: Cha Yong-Han , Yoo Jun-Il
Published: March 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to analyze differences in the geometrical properties of the proximal femur and predict the occurrence of basicervical fractures through a comparative study of femoral neck and basicervical fractures in patients undergoing hip structural analysis (HSA). Methods: All patients with hip fractures who were at least 65 years old and admitted to our hospital between March 2017 and December 2019 were eligible for this study. During the study period, 149 femur neck fractures (FNF) and basicervical fractures (intertrochanteric fractures of A31.2) were included in the study. Fifty-nine people were included in the final analysis. The factors considered to be the most important confounders affecting the occurrence of basicervical hip fractures were chosen for propensity-score analysis. A logistic model with basicervical hip fractures as the outcome and age, sex, weight, spinal T-score, hip T-score, and vitamin D levels as confounders was used to estimate the propensity score.Results: The cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI) of the intertrochanter was significantly lower in the basicervical hip fracture (HF) patients than in the FNF patients (p = 0.045). However, there were no significant differences in any other HSA variable between the two groups. The results of ROC analysis showed that the cutoff points for HSA were 100 in hip axis length (HAL) (AUC = 0.659, p < 0.001) and 5.712 in the CSMI of the intertrochanter (AUC = 0.676, p < 0.001). After considering three variables, including HAL, the CSMI of intertrochanter, and handgrip strength, the results of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were 104.8, 8.75, and 16.9 (AUC = 0.726, p < 0.001), respectively.Conclusions: Proximal femoral geometric analysis using HSA is a useful method for predicting the type of hip fracture. Additionally, a lower CSMI, shorter HAL, and lower grip strength are major predictors of basicervical fractures.
Self-Expanding Metal Stent Insertion by Colorectal Surgeons Using a Two-Person Approach Colonoscopy Without Fluoroscopic Monitoring in the Management of Acute Colorectal Obstruction: A 14-Year Experience
Authors: Yan feihu , Zhang Yao , Bian Cheng-ling , Liu Xiao-shuang , Chen Bing-chen , Wang Zhen , Wang Hao , E Ji fu , Yu En-da
Published: March 2021

Background Placement of a self-expanding metal stent (self-expanding metal stent, SEMS) in patients presenting with kinds of colorectal disease as an acute colorectal obstruction (acute colorectal obstruction, ACO) may obviate emergency surgery(emergency surgery, ES), potentially effectively palliating incurable tumours, acting as a bridge to surgery (bridge to surgery, BTS) in patients with operable or potentially operable tumours and achieving effective decompression of other colorectal obstruction diseases. We present our experience with SEMS insertion by colorectal surgeons without fluoroscopic monitoring for ACO especially for acute malignant colorectal obstruction (acute malignant colorectal obstruction, AMCO) nearly a 14-year period (2007–2020).Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients to identify all patients presenting to our unit with ACO especially with AMCO who had stenting carried out to achieve colonic decompression. All 434 procedures were performed by colorectal surgeons using a two-person approach colonoscopy and a conventional endoscope without fluoroscopic monitoring. Results The overall technique success rate by SEMS insertion was (428/434, 98.6%), the overall clinic success rate by SEMS insertion was (412/434, 94.9%), and the overall incidence of complications was (19/434, 4.4%). The complications included clinical perforation (6/434, 1.4%), stent migration (2/434, 0.5%), one of which re-stent; stent detachment (fell off)(3/434, 0.7%), none of them with re-stent; stool impaction (6/434, 1.4%), 1 of which re-stent; abdominal pain or anal pain (2/434, 0.5%). There was no hemorrhage in any of the 434 patients. Conclusions SEMS insertion is a relative safe and effective technique for colonic decompression in the dealing with ACO as either a bridge to subsequent resection surgery or as palliative measure, or solution to other causes such as recurrent tumor、benign diseases or extra-luminal compression. Therefore, ES was largely avoided.
Structural, Morphological, Optical, Luminescent and Magnetic Properties of Nanostructured ZnO Thin Film
Authors: S Visweswaran , Venkatachalapathy R. , Haris M. , Murugesan R.
Published: March 2021

ZnO thin film deposited on the glass substrate at various substrate temperature by spray technique using perfume atomizer. The deposited ZnO thin films are annealed at 450ºC. The deposited films are highly transparent and adhered to the substrate. The structure and microstructural, morphological, compositional, optical and luminescent characteristics were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, Field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM with EDX), Atomic force microscope (AFM), Ultra violet visible spectrophotometer (UV-Vis) and photoluminescence spectroscopic techniques. The crystalline nature of annealed film were confirmed from XRD and the shows preferred orientation along (1 0 1) plane. At higher substrate temperature, reorientation of planes was seen. The spherical shaped grains are observed from morphological studies. The roughness of ZnO film, one of the key parameter obtained from AFM, increases with substrate temperature. The high transparency of about 80% in visible region are obtained for ZnO film with band gap ranging from 3.24 – 3.19 eV. The presence of defects in ZnO films are identified from PL bands. The electronic vibrations in ZnO film were understood from Raman spectra. The weak ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature is observed and exchange interactions stemming from oxygen vacancy produce BMP and subject to RTFM in ZnO.
What Is the Impact of Excessive Iodine and Semen Quality in Fertile Men of China: An Association Study 
Authors: Wang Ning , Lv Fang , Yu Ge , Shi Cuige , Wang Shangming , Zhang Shucheng
Published: March 2021

Background: Iodine is an essential element for hormones synthesized by the human thyroid gland. Thyroid hormone deficiency affects all body tissues, including multiple endocrine changes that alter growth hormones, corticotrophin, glucocorticoids, and gonadal function. In many countries, subfertility is an important problem affecting about 10–15% of all couples trying to conceive. Male subfertile factors have accounted for 25–30% of all cases in their studies. The aim of this study was to study the correlation between urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and semen quality of fertile male in China.Methods: semen and urine samples were collected from males who attended a survey for the reproductive physiological constants of male and female in China. All participants were fertile and they should be free from diseases of male reproductive system and thyroid related diseases. We studied the correlation between UIC and semen quality parameters in fertile males and the effect of iodine concentration on male reproduction. Participants were divided into six groups based on UIC. We measured semen parameters and UIC. Semen parameters or time-to-pregnancy (TTP) were analyzed by Spearman correlation, linear regression and multivariable logistic regression. Results: 1089 men were recruited in the study. The mean and median age of participants were 27.46±0.12 and 27±3.88 years, respectively. UIC of 274 (25.16%) men was lower than the UIC of WHO recommended. UIC of 405 men located in the region of WHO recommended. 62.35% of them were not located in the optimal region. Semen concentration and total sperm count were found to decrease when UIC increases when the UIC≥100 ug/L. Conclusions: A male with deficient UIC or excessive UIC has more risk of lower semen quality such as sperm concentration and total sperm count. In addition, if a male with deficient UIC or excessive UIC, his wife has longer TTP than the males who had normal UIC. Deficient UIC associated with lower semen quality and TTP than excessive UIC.
Inadequate Use of Antibiotics in the Covid-19 Era: Effectiveness of Antibiotic Therapy
Authors: Estrada Alejandro David Bendala , Parra Jorge Calderón Calderón , Carracedo Eduardo Fernández , Míguez Antonio Muiño , Martínez Antonio Ramos , Rubio Elena Muñez , Rubio-Rivas Manuel , Blas Paloma Agudo de , Fernández Francisco Arnalich , Perez Vicente Estrada , Martínez María Luisa Taboada , Vieitez Anxela Crestelo , Fontan Paula Maria Pesqueira , Vega Marta Bustamante , Freire Santiago J. , Oriol-Bermúdez Isabel , Mora Arturo Artero , Sierra Julián Olalla , Manrique María Areses , Carrasco-Sánchez Francisco Javier , Vento Vanessa Carolina , García Gema María García , Cubero-Morais Pablo , Rojo José Manuel Casas , Núñez-Cortés Jesús Millán
Published: March 2021

Background: Since December 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the concept of medicine. This work aims to analyze the use of antibiotics in patients admitted to the hospital due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: This work analyzes the use and effectiveness of antibiotics in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 based on data from the SEMI-COVID-19 registry, an initiative to generate knowledge about this disease using data from electronic medical records. Our primary endpoint was all-cause in-hospital mortality according to antibiotic use. The secondary endpoint was the effect of macrolides on mortality. Results: Of 13,932 patients, antibiotics were used in 12,238. The overall death rate was 20.7% and higher among those taking antibiotics (87.8%). Higher mortality was observed with use of all antibiotics (OR 1.40, 95%CI 1.21-1.62; p<.001) except macrolides, which had a higher survival rate (OR 0.70, 95%CI 0.64-0.76; p<.001). The decision to start antibiotics was influenced by presence of increased inflammatory markers and any kind of infiltrate on an x-ray. Patients receiving antibiotics required respiratory support and were transferred to intensive care units more often. Conclusions: Bacterial co-infection was uncommon among COVID-19 patients, yet use of antibiotics was high. There is insufficient evidence to support widespread use of empiric antibiotics in these patients. Most may not require empiric treatment and if they do, there is promising evidence regarding azithromycin as a potential COVID-19 treatment.
Cognitive and Socio-emotional Correlates of Psychological Well-being and Mental Health in Guatemalan Adults 
Authors: Ramírez-Luzuriaga María J , Ochaeta Laura , Ramírez-Zea Manuel , DiGirolamo Ann , Waford Rachel , Wray Charlotte , Martorell Reynaldo , Stein Aryeh D
Published: March 2021

Background: Little is known about associations of psychological and mental well-being with cognitive and socioemotional factors in low and middle-income countries, particularly among vulnerable populations born in adverse environments that may restrict developmental potential. This study aimed to examine the cognitive and socioemotional correlates of psychological well-being and mental health in a cohort of Guatemalan adults born in contexts of adversity.Methods: From Dec 2017 to Apr 2019, data were collected from 704 women and 564 men ages 40-57 y living in four rural villages in eastern Guatemala and Guatemala City. We measured latent domains of psychological well-being, spirituality and religion, emotional support, and executive function using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Under a Structural Equation Modeling framework, we examined intercorrelations among latent domains and observed measures of intelligence and mental health. Results: CFA supported the construct validity of factor structures in this population. Correlations of psychological well-being with spirituality and religion were moderate in women (r=0.68, p<0.001) and strong in men (r=0.70, p<0.001). Executive function was weakly correlated with psychological well-being in men (r=0.23, p<0.001) and showed no association in women. Correlations of psychological well-being with emotional support and IQ were weak in women (r=0.34, and r=0.15, respectively; p<0.001 for both) and men (r=0.35, and r=0.25, respectively; p<0.001 for both). Mental health and IQ were weakly correlated in men (r=0.09, p<0.05) and showed no association in women. Mental health showed weak correlations with emotional support (r=0.18, p<0.001 in women; r=0.09, p<0.05 in men), psychological well-being (r=0.32 and r=0.35, in women and men respectively; p<0.001 for both) and showed no association with executive function in both sexes.Conclusions: Our findings lay the foundation for advancing the understanding of factors that could contribute to strengthening psychological well-being and mental health in populations living in contexts of adversity. The extent to which spiritual and religious involvement may promote higher levels of psychological well-being merits further investigation.
Oscillatory Visual Mechanisms Revealed by Random Temporal Sampling
Authors: Arguin Martin , Ferrandez Roxanne , Massé Justine
Published: March 2021

It is increasingly apparent that functionally significant neural activity is oscillatory in nature. Demonstrating the implications of this mode of operation for perceptual/cognitive function remains somewhat elusive. This report describes the technique of random temporal sampling for the investigation of visual oscillatory mechanisms. The technique is applied in visual recognition experiments using different stimulus classes (words, familiar objects, novel objects, and faces). Classification images reveal variations of perceptual effectiveness according to the temporal features of stimulus visibility. These classification images are also decomposed into their power and phase spectra. Stimulus classes lead to distinct outcomes and the power spectra of classification images are highly generalizable across individuals. Moreover, stimulus class can be reliably decoded from the power spectrum of individual classification images. These findings and other aspects of the results validate random temporal sampling as a promising new method to study oscillatory visual mechanisms.
The Population Structure and Selection Signal Analysis of Shenxian Pigs Based on Genome Resequencing Technology
Authors: Liu Diao , Lu Chunlian , Li Shang , Jia Mengyu , Miao Yutao , Ren Liqin , Li Sai , Cao Hongzhan
Published: March 2021

Shenxian pigs are the only local black pig of Hebei Province, and were listed in the Genetics of Livestock and Poultry Resources of China in 2016. This breed of pig is considered to be a valuable local pig germplasm genetic resource in China. When compared with other introduced pig breeds, the Shenxian pig breed is characterized with early sexual maturity, short oestrus intervals, large litter sizes, and good meat quality, which are all of good research significance. However, the Shenxian pig variety was previously declared extinct in 2004 due to the introduction of a large number of foreign pig breeds. In order to preserve and study the Shenxian pig breed, the Hebei Zhengnong Animal Husbandry Co., Ltd. was established in Hebei Province for the purpose of preserving the purified Shenxian pig strain. In the present study, in order to understand the genetic variations of Shenxian pigs, identify selected regions related to superior traits, and accelerate the breeding processes of Shenxian pigs, the whole genome of the Shenxian pigs was resequenced and compared with that of large white pigs. The goal was to explore the germplasm characteristics of Shenxian pigs.The results obtained in this research investigation revealed that the genetic relationships of the Shenxian pig breed were complex, and that sub-populations could be identified within the general population. A total of 23M SNP sites were obtained by whole genome resequencing, and 1,509 selected sites were obtained via bioinformatics analyses. It was determined after annotation that a total of 19 genes were enriched in three items of bioengineering, molecular function, and cell composition.During this research investigation, the aforementioned 19 genes were subjected to GO and KEGG analyses. Subsequently, the candidate genes related to cell proliferation were obtained (DMTF1 and WDR5), which were considered to possibly be related to the slow growth and development of Shenxian pigs. In addition, the candidate genes related to lactation were obtained (CSN2 and CSN3). However, no genes related to meat quality traits were successfully screened.
Mechanical Ventilation Enhances Acinetobacter Baumannii-induced Lung Injury Through JNK Pathways
Authors: Tsay Tzyy-Bin , Chang Wan-Hsuan , Hsu Ching-Mei , Chen Lee-Wei
Published: March 2021

Background: Patients in intensive care units (ICUs) often received broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment and Acinetobacter baumannii (A.b.) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P.a.) were the most common pathogens causing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). This study aimed to examine the effects and mechanism of mechanical ventilation (MV) on A.b.-induced lung injury and the involvement of alveolar macrophages (AMs).Methods: C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase knockout (JNK1−/−) mice received MV for 3 h at 2 days after nasal instillation of A.b., P.a. (1 × 106 colony-forming unit, CFU), or normal saline.Results: Intranasal instillation of 106 CFU A.b. in C57BL/6 mice induced a significant increase in total cells and protein levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and neutrophil infiltration in the lungs. MV after A.b. instillation increases neutrophil infiltration, interleukin (IL)-6 and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM) mRNA expression in the lungs and total cells, IL-6 levels, and nitrite levels in the BALF. The killing activity of AMs against A.b. was lower than against P.a. The diminished killing activity was parallel with decreased tumor necrosis factor-α production by AMs compared with with A.b. Moreover, MV decreased the A.b. and P.a. killing activity of AMs. MV after A.b. instillation induced less total cells in the BALF and nitrite production in the serum of JNK1-/- mice than those of WT mice.Conclusion: A.b. is potent in inducing neutrophil infiltration in the lungs and total protein in the BALF. MV enhances A.b.-induced lung injury through an increase in the expression of VCAM and IL-6 levels in the BALF and a decrease in the bacteria-killing activity of AMs. A lower inflammation level in JNK1-/- mice indicates that A.b.-induced VAP causes lung injury through JNK signaling pathway in the lungs.
The effects of different travel modes on COVID-19 transmission in global cities
Authors: Zhu Rui , Anselin Luc , Batty Michael , Guan Mei-Po , Chen Min , Luo Wei , Cheng Tao , Lim Che , Santi Paolo , Cheng Cheng , Gu Qiushi , Wong Man , Zhang Kai , Lü Guonian , Ratti Carlo
Published: March 2021

Previous studies have been focused primarily on modelling and predicting the transmission of COVID-19. While little research has been conducted to understand the impacts of different travel modes on the transmission of COVID-19, without an explicit understanding of the travel mode effects, many people intuitively perceive non-motorized travel modes to be safer than public transit as passengers in public transit are confined to small, enclosed spaces where the virus can transmit more easily. During the period when urban mobility gradually returns towards what was called ‘normal’ and transit systems and urban facilities reopen, new waves of the pandemic might be generated as travel mode choices significantly differ across cities and different travel behaviors are associated with diverse infectious sources. Thus, the current study focuses on understanding the impact of different travel modes on the transmission of COVID-19 in the long-term and at world-wide scales, aspects that have not received much attention in the research literature. Accordingly, a multivariate time series analysis has been developed to examine the impacts of daily confirmed cases and travel modes, based on driving, public transit, and walking as recorded in the Apple Mobility Trends Reports on COVID-19 transmission risks in 71 cities throughout the world from January to November 2020. The impact of population density in built-up areas and the degree to which the `wearing' of facemasks affects infections are also investigated. Among the three travel modes we examine, driving is the safest way to commute because drivers are physically separate from crowds. Unexpectedly, walking has a relatively low risk when the population density in built-up areas is high, which suggests that, globally, people have increased awareness of pandemic prevention. Although the general public is more worried about using public transit, this mode can still be safe in many large cities, a factor that is vital for informing policy making and developing trust among citizens so they will continue to commute using public transit when strict preventative measures are in place. From another perspective, infectious sources make the largest contribution to daily confirmed cases, thus demonstrating the importance of strict quarantine measures to block the source of infection. The results and conclusions presented herein are based on an analysis of spatio-temporal data that helps inform policy making and enable cities to be kept open when controlling the pandemic, which has become an urgent task for the international community when rebuilding the economy.
Influence of Ni2+ Ions on the Structural, Morphological, Photoluminescence, Photo-Catalytic and Anti-Bacterial Studies of Cd0.9Zn0.1S Nanostructures
Authors: Raju P. , Jesuraj Joseph Prince , Muthukumaran S.
Published: March 2021

Controlled synthesis of Cd0.9Zn0.1S and Cd0.89Zn0.1Ni0.01S nanostructures by chemical co-precipitation route was reported. The XRD analysis confirmed the cubic structure of CdS on Zn doping and Zn, Ni dual doping without any secondary/impurity phases and no alteration in cubic phase was noticed by Zn/Ni addition. The shrinkage of crystallite size from 69 Å to 43 Å and the variation in lattice constants and micro-strain were described by the addition of Ni and the defects associated with Ni2+ ions. The enhanced optical absorbance in the visible wavelength and the reduced energy gap by Ni substitution showed that Cd0.89Zn0.1Ni0.01S nanostructures are useful to improve the efficiency of opto-electronic devices. The functional groups of Cd-S / Zn-Cd-S /Zn/Ni-Cd-S and their chemical bonding were verified by Fourier transform infrared studies. The elevated visible PL emissions such as blue and green emissions by Ni addition was explained by worsening of crystallite size and generation of more defects. Zn, Ni dual doped CdS nanostructures are identified as the probable an efficient photo-catalyst for the degradation of methylene blue dye. The liberation of more charge carriers, better visible absorbance, improved surface to volume ratio and the creation of more defects are accountable for the current photo-catalytic activity in Zn/Ni doped CdS which exhibited better photo-catalytic activity after sex cycling process. The noticed higher bacterial killing ability at Ni doped Cd0.9Zn0.1S is due to the collective effect of lower particle/grain size and also higher ROS producing capacity.
What Can Student-Generated Animations Tell Us About Students’ Conceptions of Evolution?
Authors: Orraryd Daniel , Tibell Lena A. E.
Published: March 2021

Background A large body of research investigate student´s conceptions and emphasizes that students have alternative conceptions about causes of evolutionary changes. The conventional way to monitor students’ conceptions are through inventories where researchers analyze their written answers. However, textbooks are being increasingly complemented with, or even replaced by, various multimedia materials and multiple modes are used to communicate evolutionary processes. This has profound implications for students’ learning, and the test format may influence which knowledge they present. The goal of this exploratory study is therefore to expand the understanding of students’ conceptions of evolution through natural selection by applying student-generated stop-motion animations to disclose students’ conceptions. Forty-seven Swedish upper secondary school students generated eighteen animations concerning evolution through natural selection. We analysed the animations qualitatively using content analysis recording key concepts, alternative conceptions and connections in organizational levels and time. This analysis was related to the analysis of the students written explanations of a case of evolutionary change. Results Our study highlights some of the benefits and limitations of using these two assessment forms. Concerning alternative concepts, a clear difference between the results of the two methods of assessment was observed. In particular, the alternative conception essentialism was show to a lesser extent in the student’s animations than in their written responses, while natural selection as an event became more prevalent. ConclusionsThese findings support the view that students’ expression of different misconceptions is influenced by the context and representational form. The work also reveals that generating stop-motion animations to explain scientific concepts is an engaging approach that stimulates students to explore their understanding in a creative and personal manner, which potentially is positive for engagement and learning. The potential for complementing standard paper and pen tests with tasks that encompass stop-motion animations is discussed further.
Policy Options for Adapting Health Care Providers to New Situations in the Workplace During the Covid-19 Pandemic in Iran
Authors: Babaei Nasib , Avazeh Marziyeh , Doshmangir Leila
Published: March 2021

BackgroundThe rapid change in the situation of health care centers following the sudden onset of the Covid-19 pandemic led to working challenges, role changes, and the transfer of staff to a new and unfamiliar workplace. The aim of this study was to develop policy options to adapt health care providers to the new situation in the workplace during the Covid-19 pandemic as health system planners and policymakers prepare and implement an intervention action plan with more confidence in choosing the best and most effective strategies.MethodsTo identify the problem or issue and developing a policy document, first a comprehensive review of literature was carried out using national and international databases. The keywords used were "Health care provider", "Employees adaptation", "Professional adaptation", "Managing roles", "Covid-19", "SARS-Cov-‎‎2", and "Critical Care". The views of health care providers in the Covid-19 pandemic, personal observations and experiences were also used. Finally, in order to categorize the interventions and present policy options, seven national health system experts were consulted to comment on policy options until the interventions were substantiated and a policy document was developed and presented.ResultsAccording to the criteria of effectiveness, feasibility, appropriateness, sustainability, flexibility, cost-effectiveness compared to policy options, 31 interventions were found. After consulting experts to categorize the interventions and strategies, based on the defined criteria including appropriate to the target population, culturally and ethically acceptable, acceptable to the officials and stakeholders and context compatibility, three policy options were considered for implementation. These three policy options include; creating an activation system of flexible and efficient employees with adjustment of personnel roles, adequate training of health care personnel about working conditions with Covid-19 patients, and creating a supportive and motivational work environment.ConclusionsThe developed policy options in our study, while highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of each option, provide key policy directions for adapting healthcare providers to the new workplace situation during the Covid-19 pandemic and other future crises. None of the policy options are considered alone, but using options together will be effective.
Correlation between the imaging manifestations of cerebellar infarction and the clinical characteristics of patients: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Wei Lai , Zhang Kangwei , Meng Jinqian , Ni Jiong , Wang Peijun
Published: March 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between the imaging manifestations of cerebellar infarction and the clinical characteristics of patients.
Methods

A total of 83 patients with acute cerebellar infarction were included in this analysis. The NIHSS score, TOAST classification, CT and MRI examinations and serum laboratory tests were performed. The statistics of the data were carried out through descriptive statistics, T test and analysis of variance.
Results

Hyperlipidemia (66.3%), hypertension (77.1%) and carotid atherosclerosis (97.6%) were the main underlying causes of cerebellar infarction. Ataxia (67.5%) and brainstem syndrome (60.2%) were main clinical manifestations. Patients with NIHSS score ≤ 5 accounted for the majority (87.9%) and SAO (43.3%) and LAA (50.6%) were the main TOAST classifications. The cerebellar infarction caused by obstruction of SCA accounted for the majority (69.9%) and there was no statistical difference in the detection ability of CTA and MRA (P > 0.05). The incidence of left hemisphere cerebellar infarction was the highest (56.7%) and MRI showed an absolute advantage in showing the area of cerebellar infarction compared with CT (P < 0.001). The serum concentrations of D-dimer, LDL, and triglycerides were higher in patients with high NIHSS scores than in those with low scores (P < 0.05), while the serum HDL levels were just the opposite (P < 0.05). The serum D-dimer concentrations in patients classified as CE by TOAST were higher than that in patients classified as LAA and SAO (P < 0.05), while the serum concentrations of LDL were just the opposite (P < 0.05). The lesion sizes of cerebellar infarction were negatively related to the patient's serum HDL concentrations (P < 0.05) but it positively correlated with the NIHSS scores (P < 0.05). The patients classified as LAA had larger lesion sizes of cerebellar infarction than those classified as SAO and CE (P < 0.001).
Conclusions

CTA and MRA are comparable in showing the stenosis and obstruction of the cerebellar artery. However, MRI has an absolute advantage in showing the area of cerebellar infarction. The serum concentrations of D-dimer, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides are correlated with the patient’s NIHSS scores, TOAST classification and infarct sizes, which are helpful in evaluating the condition of the disease.