bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Incentive Policy Evaluation of Prefabricated Buildings Based on Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Wang Sunmeng , Wang Chengjun , Li Wenlong
Published: September 2022

We examine if the incentive policies of prefabricated buildings in China are well distributed and if the policies reasonably match the development of prefabricated buildings. In applying a policy tools perspective, we will establish an indicator evaluation system of incentive policies of prefabricated buildings, which includes area award and construction link, financial, land, link, and technical support. We then use the Grey Relation Analysis Method to establish the evaluation model, which we then apply to evaluate and analyze the text data of incentive policies for prefabricated buildings in various provinces in the period 2016–2018. In drawing on the results of the evaluation model, we put forward policy suggestions that will promote the high-quality development of the prefabricated construction industry. These include the following: provinces should reasonably select or formulate incentive policies in accordance with their own actual conditions; governments at all levels should improve demand policies that are currently absent; they should also pay attention to the balance of incentive policies at all levels of the industrial chain and also increase the policy support that is currently available to the management personnel and operators of prefabricated construction.
Application of Landscape Architecture 3D Visualization Design System Based on AI Technology
Authors: Zhang Yong
Published: September 2022

With the vigorous development of computer, two-dimensional data acquisition technology and massive data dynamic visualization information technology, two-dimensional geographic information system (GIS) has gradually matured, and has been transferred from the initial visual expression to thematic application. Because 3D geographic information system has the characteristics of multidimensional data processing, classification, and presentation of information, it breaks through the confinement of monotonously displayed information on the traditional two-dimensional plane and has made breakthroughs in government assisted decision-making, national resource investigation, intelligent transportation, and other fields. E-commerce has been widely used in the field, and it is also very obvious in the field of spatial information socialization, playing an irreplaceable intergenerational effect. The visualization of landscape design is one of the key technologies to construct 3D GIS. Based on the combination of basic research and practical application, this paper deeply analyzes the openness of the garden 3D visualization system using artificial intelligence technology and completes the overall structure design of the 3D visualization system on the basis of studying the practical value and feasibility. Combined with the construction of the system, it is true to determine the acquisition method and construction method of three-dimensional landscape architecture model data, classify the landscape architecture information, and establish geometric model type libraries and texture model libraries. At the same time, the system adopts the object-oriented spatial relational database management mode to organize and manage the three-dimensional landscape building data efficiently and quickly. Determine the corresponding software and hardware configurations, carry out the interface design of the system and the division of functional modules, and establish a three-dimensional terrain visualization system for landscape architecture. In order to improve the operational efficiency of the system, the data is rationally organized and managed while taking optimization measures for the 3D model. Finally, the system adopts AI technology and uses component technology to realize the research of the intelligent terminal application system of landscape architecture.
Awareness of Antimicrobial Resistance: Surveillance among Visitors of a Tertiary Care Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alduhaimi Ghadah Saad , Alabdulkareem Malak Emad , Alhussin Ghadah Ibrahim , Alhumaid Lina Ali , Basudan Sarah Khalid , Masud Nazish , Alhatmi Hind Abdullah , Bosaeed Mohammed Abdullah
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a worldwide issue that was declared by the World Health Organization as a high-priority issue. However, there is a lack of awareness about AMR noticed in our community. Therefore, this study aims to assess the knowledge of the community regarding AMR. Methodology: A validated 24-item questionnaire was administered to the visitors of the outpatient clinic pharmacy waiting area to investigate their awareness of antibiotic resistance. Results: 397 questionnaires were received and analyzed. The questionnaire included questions asking what antibiotic resistance is, how to use antibiotics properly, and for which infections antibiotics are used. The findings showed that 161 (40.55%) of the respondents were classified as having sufficient knowledge of AMR. Moreover, the results revealed that there was a significant association between gender and the level of knowledge where females showed a better knowledge of AMR than males. Age was also an influencing factor since respondents aged between 18 and 45 (31.49%) years proved to have higher knowledge. Conclusion: Our findings showed that awareness of AMR and the proper usage of antibiotics seems to be lacking among the general population. Educating the general population through the health care system and public campaigns could change the community’s perception of antimicrobial usage and, consequently, increase awareness of AMR.
Extended Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection Does Not Affect Functional Outcomes during Bilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Krieger Luise , Holze Sigrun , Mende Meinhard , Do Hoang Minh , Dietel Anja , Franz Toni , Arthanareeswaran Vinodh Kumar Adithyaa , Stolzenburg Jens-Uwe
Published: September 2022

Introduction: A possible association between extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) in radical prostatectomy (RPE) and functional outcomes such as erectile function (EF) and continence recovery has been previously considered. This association stems from the direct proximity of ePLND to the pelvic plexus. In this paper, we aimed to critically examine an association of ePLND with functional outcomes in patients who underwent bilateral nerve-sparing RPE. Methods: 272 out of 782 patients from a randomized, patient-blinded, multicenter trial were retrospectively classified into two groups based on the D’Amico criteria: 114 had no PLND and 158 had ePLND. Continence (no pad/safety pad) and EF (Index of Erectile Function-5 [IIEF-5] questionnaire ≥17; sufficient erection for sexual intercourse) were assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months as well as postsurgical complications (Clavien-Dindo Classification). Results: After 12 months of follow-up, no significant difference for potency could be found between men without and subjected to ePLND: IIEF-5 ≥17 (23.2% vs. 27.2%; p = 0.55) and sufficient erection for intercourse (44.1% vs. 45.6%; p = 0.84). A multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that while preoperative EF (p < 0.001), pathological tumor stage (p = 0.027), and robot-assisted bilateral nerve-sparing RPE (p < 0.001) were independent predictors of EF recovery, the same did not apply to ePLND. No association was detected for continence recovery (94.2% vs. 89.7%; p = 0.22) and complications of any grade after surgery (11.4% vs. 16.5%; p = 0.24). Conclusion: ePLND is not associated with increased risk of erectile dysfunction, incontinence or complications after bilateral nerve-sparing RPE.
Associations between TNFAIP3 Polymorphisms and Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Update with Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Lee Young Ho , Song Gwan Gyu
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The tumor necrosis factor alpha inducible protein 3 (TNFAIP3) gene produces ubiquitin-editing protein A20, which inhibits nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation in a variety of signaling pathways. We examined the association between TNFAIP3 polymorphisms and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) susceptibility. Methods: MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for available articles on TNFAIP3 polymorphisms in RA patients from inception until July 11, 2022. We included case-control studies on the association between rs2230926 and rs5029937 polymorphisms of TNFAIP3 and RA, and we excluded studies that contained overlapping data. We scored the quality of each study included based on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analyses evaluated the association between TNFAIP3 polymorphisms and RA susceptibility in diverse ethnic populations and was verified through trial sequential analysis (TSA). This meta-analysis was registered in the PROSPERO register (number: CRD42022345160). There was no funding source. Results: Seventeen studies were chosen for meta-analysis. Ten studies for rs2230926, and seven for rs5029937. An association was noted between TNFAIP3 rs2230926 G allele and RA in all subjects (odds ratio [OR] = 1.389; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.161−1.662; p < 0.001). Ethnicity-specific analysis showed significant association of rs2230926 G allele with RA in Europeans and Asians (OR = 1.642; 95% CI = 1.099–2.452; p = 0.015; OR = 1.404; 95% CI = 1.262−1.562; p < 0.001). An association was also noted between TNFAIP3 rs5029937 T allele and RA in all subjects (OR = 1.389; 95% CI = 1.207−1.785; p < 0.001). An ethnicity-specific meta-analysis revealed a significant association of the rs5029937 T allele with RA in Europeans and Asians. Dominant model analysis showed the same pattern for TNFAIP3 rs2230926 G and rs5029937 T alleles in Europeans and Asians, suggesting an association between rs2230926 G and rs5029937. TSA indicated a robust association between the TNFAIP3 polymorphisms and the risk of RA. Conclusion: TNFAIP3 rs2230926 and rs5029937 polymorphisms are associated with RA susceptibility in European and Asian populations. However, the data were not stratified by parameters such as rheumatoid factor status, disease activity, or environmental variables.
Hypotension at Hospital Presentation and Post-Contrast Acute Kidney Injury following Computed Tomography with Contrast Media
Authors: Yoshizawa Jo , Yamamoto Ryo , Homma Koichiro , Kamikura Hanae , Sekine Kazuhiko , Kobayashi Yosuke , Funabiki Tomohiro , Sasaki Junichi
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Post-contrast acute kidney injury (PC-AKI) is a major complication of contrast media usage; risks for PC-AKI are generally evaluated before computed tomography (CT) with contrast at the emergency department (ED). Although persistent hypotension (systolic blood pressure [sBP] <80 mm Hg for 1 h) is associated with increased PC-AKI incidence, it remains unclear whether transient hypotension that is haemodynamically stabilized before CT is a risk of PC-AKI. We hypothesized that hypotension on ED arrival would be associated with higher PC-AKI incidence even if CT with contrast was performed after patients are appropriately resuscitated. Methods: This multicentre retrospective observational study was conducted at three tertiary care centres during 2013–2014. We identified 280 patients who underwent CT with contrast at the ED. Patients were classified into two groups based on sBP on arrival (<80 vs. ≥80 mm Hg); hypotension was considered as transient because CT with contrast has always been performed after patients were stabilized at participating hospitals. PC-AKI incidence was compared between the groups; inverse probability weighting (IPW) was conducted to adjust background characteristics. Results: Eighteen patients were excluded due to chronic haemodialysis, cardiac arrest on arrival, or death within 72 h; 262 were eligible for this study. PC-AKI incidence was higher in the transient hypotension group than the normotension group {7/27 (28.6%) vs. 24/235 (10.2%), odds ratio (OR) 3.08 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.18–8.03), p = 0.026}, which was confirmed by IPW (OR 3.25 [95% CI 1.99–5.29], p < 0.001). Conclusion: Transient hypotension at the ED was associated with PC-AKI development.
Saúde e condição de vida em São Paulo: inquérito multicêntrico de saúde no Estado de São Paulo
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Cesar Chester Luiz Galvão , Alves Maria Cecilia Goi Porto ,   Instituto de Saúde da Secretaria de Estado da Saúde de São Paulo, Barros Marilisa Berti de Azevedo ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Goldbaum Moisés ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Medicina
Published: September 2022

A presente publicação se refere a um inquérito multicêntrico de saúde realizado no estado de São Paulo, o ISA-SP, por pesquisadores das universidades estaduais paulistas e da Secretaria de Estado da Saúde. O livro aborda um projeto multicêntrico, com uma base referencial comum e técnicas padronizadas, realizado em quatro áreas do estado de São Paulo: duas na Região Metropolitana de São Paulo e duas no interior do estado. A escolha das áreas baseou-se em sua importância epidemiológica e socioeconômica, na vinculação com as Universidades Estaduais, que mantêm, nos locais, unidades experimentais e de extensão de serviços, e na possibilidade de estudo de tendências nas quais ocorreram inquéritos prévios, representando também, por essas mesmas razões, áreas de estudo do interesse da Secretaria de Estado da Saúde. O objetivo da publicação, além de apresentar os resultados da pesquisa, é divulgar também o banco de dados existente que permite inúmeras outras análises.
"Triangular: arte deste século": a coleção de arte contemporânea brasileira no Museu Universitário
Authors: Avelar Ana Candida , Zaiden Victor
Published: September 2022

Este artigo apresenta e analisa o processo de formação e difusão da coleção de arte contemporânea Triangular: arte deste século, pertencente à Casa de Cultura da América Latina da Universidade de Brasília (UnB), trabalho conjunto entre professores, estudantes e servidores que ocorreu entre agosto de 2019 e março de 2021. Buscamos consolidar nessa publicação os preceitos teórico-metodológicos que orientaram não apenas os eixos curatoriais que originaram a coleção e a exposição de mesmo nome, realizada na Casa Niemeyer, mas também os processos de aprendizagem envolvendo a participação de estudantes ao longo de todas as fases do trabalho. Também se leva em conta o desenvolvimento do projeto Casa Niemeyer Digital, constituído por estratégias adotadas para explorar e difundir as potencialidades da coleção a partir dos meios virtuais, como resposta à limitação de visitas presenciais aos museus imposta pela pandemia da covid‑19.
Contexto histórico e ações educativas do Centro de Ciências de Araraquara: os 30 anos de um museu universitário do interior paulista
Authors: Silveira Camila , Maruyama José Antonio
Published: September 2022

Os museus universitários são instituições vinculadas às universidades, com importante função social, atuando no Ensino, na Pesquisa e na Extensão. Pesquisas sobre esses locais e as práticas que desenvolvem podem evidenciar aspectos que contribuam para o entendimento de suas particularidades no campo museal. Neste artigo, analisaremos o processo de consolidação do Centro de Ciências de Araraquara (CAA) como museu universitário, destacando as suas ações educativas. Partindo dos pressupostos de uma pesquisa qualitativa documental, foram analisados os documentos históricos do museu tais como: decretos institucionais, notícias de jornais, fotografias, relatórios e produções científicas. Os dados possibilitaram traçar o percurso histórico do CCA, que ficou marcado por três grandes fases que indicam o papel e comprometimento da equipe, a ampliação de suas ações, a caracterização museal e as estratégias para superação dos obstáculos operacionais para manutenção de suas atividades e funcionamento.
Editorial
Authors: Marandino Martha
Published: September 2022

A edição 33 da Revista CPC é formada por artigos representativos dos objetivos do Dossiê: apresentar reflexões e análises das dimensões de conservação, pesquisa sobre o acervo, educação e comunicação dos museus universitários. Abriga também aspectos históricos, de política cultural e os impactos da pandemia sobre diferentes tipologias de museus.
It’s a Performance, Not an Orchestra! Rethinking Soft Coordination in Global Climate Governance
Authors: Aykut Stefan C. , Schenuit Felix , Klenke Jan , d’Amico Emilie
Published: September 2022

Global climate governance is in transition. As the focus shifts from negotiations to implementation, the quest for ways to effectively coordinate ambitious climate action has become a key concern. While existing studies frame this problem mostly in terms of institutional design (to “facilitate” state ambition) and strategic delegation of authority (to “orchestrate” nonstate action), this article builds on dramaturgical policy analysis to examine soft coordination in practice. Using ethnographic methods, we analyze public performances at the twenty-fifth Conference of the Parties (COP25) in Madrid. We find that these were shaped by preestablished governance scripts and social roles available to participants, but also by creative improvisations and interventions. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Secretariat and COP Presidency intervened to configure the physical setting of the conference, mold its narrative arch, and shape available roles. We conclude that performances and dramaturgical interventions are important tools of soft coordination in global climate governance. Their analysis constitutes a productive entry point for grasping contemporary transformations in global politics.
Systematic significance of pollen morphology in rare endemic taxa of Astragalus L. (Fabaceae)
Authors: KHAN AMJAD , AHMAD MUSHTAQ , ZAFAR MUHAMMAD , SHAH SAYED AFZAL , ROZINA
Published: September 2022

Pollen grains were studied for ten species of Astragalus L. endemic to Pakistan, by using light and scanning electron microscopy with the aim of extending the knowledge of their morphology and investigating whether pollen morphology can help in the identification and delimitation of controversial taxa. Consequently, we observed qualitative characters of pollen grains that ranged from small to medium, radially symmetrical, prolate to sub-prolate, trizonocolporate to tricolporate; granulate to scabrate and isopolar in all taxa. While the surface sculpturing among the species varied from perforate to granulate, reticulate to microreticulate, reticulate, perforate to reticulate, microreticulate to perforate and perforate. Similarly, among the quantitative parameters, maximum polar diameter was recorded in A. brahuicus (36.25 μm) and minimum in A. amherstianus (18.33 μm) while the equatorial diameter was maximum in A. stocksii (25.41 μm) and minimum in A. amherstianus (18.33 μm). The P/E ratio was recorded maximum in A. amherstianus (1.56 μm). Thus, length and width of colpi was maximum in A. purpurascens (26.25 μm) and A. hostilis (4.16 μm), along with the length and width of pore maximum in A. psilacanthus (8.75 μm) and A. chorizanthus (14.21 μm) respectively. We also observed the maximum value of mesocolpium and exine thickness in A. brahuicus (26.25 μm) and A. stocksii (2.04 μm). Furthermore, for easy and fast identification of studied taxa, diagnostic key was established based on examined parameters. However, the study addresses about the PCA, PCoA and UPGMA were recognized for relationships among the species based on studied pollen characters.
Three new species of Marphysa Quatrefages, 1865 (Polychaeta: Eunicida: Eunicidae) from the south coast of China and redescription of Marphysa sinensis Monro, 1934
Authors: LIU YUBIN , HUTCHINGS PAT , SUN SHICHUN
Published: September 2022

Three new species of Marphysa Quatrefages, 1865 (Polychaeta: Eunicida: Eunicidae) are described from the south coast of China, M. tripectinata n. sp., M. multipectinata n. sp. and M. tribranchiata n. sp. with comments on the usefulness of pectinate chaetae to separate species. Marphysa sinensis Monro, 1934 is redescribed with a lectotype designated. The genus Marphysa is widely collected for bait and export for recreational fishermen and anglers in China and yet the number of species involved and their native distribution is currently unknown. Such information is critical for aquaculture programs which are rearing these species.
Two new giant pill-millipede species of the genus Zoosphaerium endemic to the Bemanevika area in northern Madagascar (Diplopoda, Sphaerotheriida, Arthrosphaeridae)
Authors: SAGORNY CHRISTINA , WESENER THOMAS
Published: September 2022

Madagascar is one of the world’s most important hotspots of biodiversity and a center for localized endemism. Among the highly endemic faunal elements are the giant pill-millipedes, order Sphaerotheriida, which are severely understudied in Madagascar. Here we provide descriptions of two new species of endemic giant-pill millipedes of the genus Zoosphaerium Pocock, 1895: Zoosphaerium bemanevika n. sp. and Zoosphaerium minutus n. sp.. Zoosphaerium bemanevika n. sp. belongs to the Z. coquerelianum species-group, while Z. minutus n. sp. is not assignable to a species-group. An updated key to the 19 species of the Z. coquerelianum group is provided. Zoosphaerium minutus n. sp. has a body length of <20 mm and thus is the smallest known member of the genus, being of similar size as the larger species of Microsphaerotherium Wesener & VandenSpiegel, 2007. Both species are described utilizing drawings, scanning electron microscopy and genetic barcoding based on the mitochondrial COI gene. MicroCT imaging is applied to study internal morphology non-destructively and in situ, allowing for a reconstruction of the head skeleton. Our results show that females of Z. bemanevika n. sp. exhibit island gigantism. The two newly described species are not closely related to one another but each to different species from the Marojejy Mountain and the lowland rainforest of the east coast. Both species occur sympatrically as microendemics in small patches of humid evergreen forest near Bemanevika in northern Madagascar, an only recently protected area that represents a Malagasy center of endemism.
Comments on “The marine teleost fishes of the Sea of Marmara; an updated and annotated checklist” by Artüz & Fricke (2019)
Authors: BILECENOGLU MURAT
Published: September 2022

The recent paper by Artüz & Fricke (2019) is focused on the analysis of marine teleost fishes of the Sea of Marmara, where they have tried to correct doubtful species occurrences and presented an annotated checklist. In a few cases, the authors have provided convincing data for the removal of some species from the regional inventory, such as Apogon imberbis (Linnaeus, 1758), Scomberesox saurus (Walbaum, 1792) and Polyprion americanus (Bloch & Schneider, 1801), and pointed out revision-seeking genera (i.e. Alosa spp., Pegusa spp., etc.), which should certainly be taken into consideration. However, the paper also raises several doubts resulting from mistranslations of some previous research, misinterpretation and incomplete examination of certain published biodiversity data related to the Sea of Marmara. Despite the authors presented a number of mistaken first record data (for example Sardinella aurita Valenciennes, 1837, for full account see Bilecenoglu et al. 2002), included some unsubstantiated/questionable species (such as Symphodus melops (Linnaeus, 1758), Gobius vittatus Vinciguerra, 1883, etc.), and unexpectedly neglected the occurrence of some common coastal and deepsea species from the area, such as Arnoglossus kessleri Schmidt, 1915, Gobius bucchichi Steindachner, 1870, Labrus merula Linnaeus, 1758, Parablennius zvonimiri (Kolombatović, 1892) and Argyropelecus hemigymnus Cocco, 1829, I herein concentrate solely on the erroneous/invalid records (totaling 42 fish species) with appropriate explanations.
Taxonomic revision of Serica MacLeay, 1819 (sensu lato) from China and adjacent areas (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae: Sericini), with updates on Nipponoserica Nomura, 1972
Authors: AHRENS DIRK , FABRIZI SILVIA , BAI MING , LIU WANGANG
Published: September 2022

In this paper we revised the species of Serica McLeay, 1819 (sensu lato) occurring in China an adjacent areas, and provide an update on the genus Nipponoserica Nomura, 1972. The revision resulted in one new combination: Serica adspersa (Frey, 1972), new combination. Thirty-nine new species are described: Nipponoserica daqiao Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, Serica allolongipes Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. allotengchongana Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. baishuitaiensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. baoshan Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. daqiaoana Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. dissimillima Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. emaw Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. gaoligong Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. guangnanensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. hailuogou Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. huangbaiyuanensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. huangjing Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. jani Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. jaroslavi Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. jiankouensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. jirii Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. kuankuoshuiensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. limbourgi Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. longipes longipes Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. longwang Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. mengsongana Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. nanhua Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. pangwa Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. paralongipes Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. paralupina Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. pseudogracilipes Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. shengtangshan Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. shiduensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. smetanai Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. taishun Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. tengchongana Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. tianmushan Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. tianpingshanensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. yini Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. yuheba Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. zhenba Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species, S. ziqingi Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, new species. A key to species groups and species within groups is given, habitus and male genitalia of the revised species are illustrated. The distribution of the species revised herein is shown on maps. New distributional data are given for sixteen species.
Study of the adsorption mechanisms of NH3, H2S and SO2 on sepiolite using molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Zhou Ji , Wang Zuozhang , Alcântara Ana C.S. , Ding Yanhuai
Published: September 2022

The adsorption mechanisms of hazardous gas molecules such as NH3, H2S and SO2 on sepiolite have not yet been elucidated. Therefore, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were employed to investigate the adsorption behaviour of sepiolite towards NH3, H2S and SO2. A calculation model for sepiolite containing structural and zeolitic water molecules was constructed in this study. The adsorption sites and molecular configurations of the hazardous gases in the sepiolite channels were studied. The radial distribution function was employed to evaluate the interactions between the gas molecules and sepiolite. The results show that the order of adsorption capacity of sepiolite for the gases is as follows: SO2 > H2S > NH3. These three types of gas molecules absorbed in the channel nanopores of sepiolite exhibit different atomic configurations. The diffusion coefficients of the gas molecules in the channels decreased in the following order: NH3 > H2S > SO2. In addition, the diffusion coefficients were affected significantly by the ratio of the number of gas/water molecules. This study provides new perspectives for understanding the molecular processes responsible for the adsorption properties of sepiolite.
Impact of bowel preparation on elective colectomies for diverticulitis: analysis of the NSQIP database
Authors: Zhuo Haoran , Liu Zheng , Resio Benjamin J. , Liu Jialiang , Wang Xishan , Pei Kevin Y. , Zhang Yawei
Published: September 2022

Background

Recent data based on large databases show that bowel preparation (BP) is associated with improved outcomes in patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery. However, it remains unclear whether BP in elective colectomies would lead to similar results in patients with diverticulitis. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether bowel preparation affected the surgical site infections (SSI) and anastomotic leakage (AL) in patients with diverticulitis undergoing elective colectomies.

Study design

We identified 16,380 diverticulitis patients who underwent elective colectomies from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) colectomy targeted database (2012–2017). Multivariate logistic regression models were employed to investigate the impact of different bowel preparation strategies on postoperative complications, including SSI and AL.

Results

In the identified population, a total of 2524 patients (15.4%) received no preparation (NP), 4715 (28.8%) mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) alone, 739 (4.5%) antibiotic bowel preparation (ABP) alone, and 8402 (51.3%) MBP + ABP. Compared to NP, patients who received any type of bowel preparations showed a significantly decreased risk of SSI and AL after adjustment for potential confounders (SSI:MBP[OR = 0.82, 95%CI: 0.70–0.96],ABP[0.69, 95%CI: 0.52–0.92]; AL:MBP[OR = 0.66, 95%CI: 0.51–0.86],ABP[0.56, 95%CI: 0.34–0.93]), where the combination type of MBP + ABP had the strongest effect (SSI:OR = 0.58, 95%CI:0.50–0.67; AL:OR = 0.46, 95%CI:0.36–0.59). The significantly decreased risk of 30-day mortality was observed in the bowel preparation of MBP + ABP only (OR = 0.32, 95%CI: 0.13–0.79). After the further stratification by surgery procedures, patients who received MBP + ABP showed consistently lower risk for both SSI and AL when undergoing open and laparoscopic surgeries (Open:SSI[OR = 0.51, 95%CI: 0.37–0.69],AL[OR = 0.47, 95%CI: 0.25–0.91]; Laparoscopic:SSI[OR = 0.58, 95%CI: 0.47–0.72, AL[OR = 0.49, 95%CI: 0.35–0.68]).

Conclusions

MBP + ABP for diverticulitis patients undergoing elective open or laparoscopic colectomies was associated with decreased risk of SSI, AL, and 30-day mortality. Benefits of MBP + ABP for diverticulitis patients underwent robotic surgeries warrant further investigation.
Random forest algorithms to classify frailty and falling history in seniors using plantar pressure measurement insoles: a large-scale feasibility study
Authors: Anzai Emi , Ren Dian , Cazenille Leo , Aubert-Kato Nathanael , Tripette Julien , Ohta Yuji
Published: September 2022

Background

Frailty and falls are two adverse characteristics of aging that impair the quality of life of senior people and increase the burden on the healthcare system. Various methods exist to evaluate frailty, but none of them are considered the gold standard. Technological methods have also been proposed to assess the risk of falling in seniors. This study aims to propose an objective method for complementing existing methods used to identify the frail state and risk of falling in older adults.

Method

A total of 712 subjects (age: 71.3 ± 8.2 years, including 505 women and 207 men) were recruited from two Japanese cities. Two hundred and three people were classified as frail according to the Kihon Checklist. One hundred and forty-two people presented with a history of falling during the previous 12 months. The subjects performed a 45 s standing balance test and a 20 m round walking trial. The plantar pressure data were collected using a 7-sensor insole. One hundred and eighty-four data features were extracted. Automatic learning random forest algorithms were used to build the frailty and faller classifiers. The discrimination capabilities of the features in the classification models were explored.

Results

The overall balanced accuracy for the recognition of frail subjects was 0.75 ± 0.04 (F1-score: 0.77 ± 0.03). One sub-analysis using data collected for men aged > 65 years only revealed accuracies as high as 0.78 ± 0.07 (F1-score: 0.79 ± 0.05). The overall balanced accuracy for classifying subjects with a recent history of falling was 0.57 ± 0.05 (F1-score: 0.62 ± 0.04). The classification of subjects relative to their frailty state primarily relied on features extracted from the plantar pressure series collected during the walking test.

Conclusion

In the future, plantar pressures measured with smart insoles inserted in the shoes of senior people may be used to evaluate aspects of frailty related to the physical dimension (e.g., gait and balance alterations), thus allowing assisting clinicians in the early identification of frail individuals.
Association between preoperative hypokalemia and postoperative complications in elderly patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Chu Tiantian , Wu Zongfang , Xu Aijun
Published: September 2022

Background

Hypokalemia is a common form of electrolyte disorder, which has a higher incidence in hospitalized patients and is closely related to perioperative complications and prognosis. Due to decreased skeletal muscle mass which causes total body potassium reduction, and increased comorbidities, the elderly are more susceptible to hypokalemia.

Objective

To investigate preoperative hypokalemia in elderly patients and its effect on postoperative complications.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected from the elderly patients who underwent elective surgery from April 2018 to March 2019 and had preoperative blood gas data available. Patients, with age 60 to 100 years, were divided into hypokalemia group (potassium level < 3.5 mmol/L) and normokalemia group (potassium level between 3.5 and 5.5 mmol/L) according to preoperative blood gas analysis. Hypokalemia can be divided into mild (potassium level 3.0 to 3.5 mmol/L), moderate (potassium level 2.5 to 3.0 mmol/L) and severe (potassium level < 2.5 mmol/L), respectively. The risk factors of preoperative hypokalemia and its impact on postoperative complications and prognosis were primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included postanesthesia care unit (PACU) stay time and hospital length of stay (LOS).

Results

Of 987 participants, 436 (44.17%) developed preoperative hypokalemia, among them 357 (81.88%) mild, 87 (16.74%) moderate and 6 (1.38%) severe. Multivariate logistic regression showed that female gender (OR, 1.851; 95% CI, 1.415–2.421), pre-existing hypokalemia at admission (OR, 4.498; 95% CI, 2.506–8.071), and oral laxative twice or more (OR, 1.823; 95% CI, 1.266–2.624) are risk factors of preoperative hypokalemia. Gynecological and biliopancreatic surgery were more common in hypokalemia group than normokalemia group (P <  0.001, P <  0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative complications, PACU stay time, LOS, and 30-day mortality between the two groups (all P >  0.05).

Conclusions

Female gender, pre-existing hypokalemia at admission, and oral laxative twice or more are independent risk factors for preoperative hypokalemia in elderly patients. However, postoperative complications and 30-day mortality were not increased, which may be related to monitoring blood gas analysis and prompt correction of potassium levels during surgery.
The economic impact of untreated maternal mental health conditions in Texas
Authors: Margiotta Caroline , Gao Jessica , O’Neil So , Vohra Divya , Zivin Kara
Published: September 2022

Background

Maternal mental health conditions (MMHCs), which include depression and anxiety disorders during pregnancy and through five years postpartum, are among the most common obstetric complications in the United States overall and in Texas in particular. In the context of potential expansion of postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to one year, we sought to capture the societal, financial burden of untreated MMHCs.

Methods

We estimated the economic impact of untreated maternal mental health conditions (MMHCs) among births in Texas in 2019 using a cost-of-illness model.

Results

We found that MMHCs affected 13.2% of mothers and, when left untreated, cost $2.2 billion among mothers and children born in Texas in 2019 when following the birth cohort from conception through five years postpartum. We found that MMHCs affected 17.2% of mothers enrolled in Texas’ Medicaid for Pregnant Women and cost $962 million. In addition, the prevalence of MMHCs and resulting costs varied considerably among women of different races and ethnicities. Employers and health care payers, including Medicaid, bore most of these costs.

Conclusions

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission’s (HHSC) efforts to increase awareness about MMHCs and increase access to care represent an important step toward improving maternal and child health and maximizing benefits to Texas HHSC, employers, and insurers.
Adolescent experiences of pregnancy in low-and middle-income countries: a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies
Authors: Crooks Rachel , Bedwell Carol , Lavender Tina
Published: September 2022

Background

Fertility rates among adolescents have fallen globally, yet the greatest incidence remains in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). Gaining insight into adolescents needs and experiences of pregnancy will help identify if context specific services meet their needs and how to optimise pregnancy experiences. A meta-synthesis of qualitative studies considering adolescent experiences of pregnancy in LMICs has not yet been published.

Aim

To synthesise available qualitative evidence to provide greater understanding of the needs and experiences of adolescents who become pregnant in low-and middle-income countries.

Methods

An extensive search utilised six databases and citations searching. Studies were included if they were of a qualitative or mixed methods design. Participants lived in LMICs and were adolescents who were pregnant, had experienced pregnancy during adolescence or were an adolescent male partner. Relevant studies were assessed for quality to determine suitability for inclusion. A meta-ethnography approach was used to generate themes and a final line of argument.

Results

After screening and quality assessment 21 studies were included. The meta-ethnography generated four themes, A wealth of emotions, I am not ready, Impactful relationships and Respectful and disrespectful care. Unplanned, unwanted and unacceptable pregnancies were a source of shame, with subsequent challenging personal relationships and frequently a lack of needed support. Even when pregnancy was wanted, adolescents faced the internal conflict of their desires not always aligning with socio-cultural, religious and family expectations. Access, utilisation and experiences of care were significantly impacted by adolescents’ relationships with others, the level of respectful care experienced, and engagement with adolescent friendly services.

Conclusions

Adolescents who experience pregnancy in LMICs deserve support to meet their personal and pregnancy needs; efforts are needed to tailor the support provided. A lack of a health care provider knowledge and skills is an obstacle to optimal support, with more and better training integral to increasing the availability of adolescent friendly and respectful care. Adolescents should be involved in the planning of health care services and supported to make decisions about their care. The diversity across countries mean policy makers and other stakeholders need to consider how these implications can be realised in each context.
An IGF-1R-mTORC1-SRPK2 signaling Axis contributes to FASN regulation in breast cancer
Authors: McClellan Bryan , Gries Paul , Harlow Brittany , Tiziani Stefano , Jolly Christopher , deGraffenried Linda
Published: September 2022

Background

Fatty acid synthase (FASN) expression is associated with a more aggressive breast cancer phenotype and is regulated downstream of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling pathways. Recently, post transcriptional regulation of lipogenic transcripts have been demonstrated as being mediated downstream of serine-arginine rich protein kinase 2 (SRPK2), which acts to phosphorylate serine-arginine rich splicing factors (SRSFs), resulting in RNA binding and various RNA regulatory processes. Though post-transcriptional regulation of FASN has been studied previously, the upstream mediators of these pathways have not been elucidated.

Methods

Western blotting and RT-qPCR were utilized to demonstrate alterations in FASN and mRNA expression upon modulation of the IGF-1-mTORC1-SRPK2 pathway by small molecule inhibitors or RNAi mediated silencing. RNA stability was accessed by using the transcriptional inhibitor actinomycin-D followed by RT-qPCR. Further, we employed RNA-immunoprecipitation to demonstrate the direct binding of SRSF-1 to FASN transcripts.

Results

In the current study, we demonstrated an IGF-1 induced increase in FASN mRNA and protein expression that was attenuated by mTORC1 inhibition. This mTORC1 inhibition also resulted in decreases in total and nuclear p-SRPK2 in response to IGF-1 exposure. Upon SRPK2 knockdown and inhibition, we observed a decrease in FASN protein and mRNA stability, respectively, in response to IGF-1 exposure that was specific to triple negative and HER2+ breast cancer cell lines. As we explored further, IGF-1 exposure resulted in an altered localization of eGFP expressed SRSF-1, pEGFP-SRSF-1 that was rescued upon both SRPK2 knockdown and mTORC1 inhibition. Further, we observed an increase binding of SRSF-1 to FASN RNA upon IGF-1 exposure, which was abrogated by SRPK2 knockdown.

Conclusion

These current findings establish a potential IGF-1-mTORC1-SRPK2-FASN axis in breast cancer, which could be a potential therapeutic target for cancers that overexpress FASN and components of the IGF-1R pathway.
Nutritional policies and anaemia among under-five children in selected south Asian countries: 1950–2016
Authors: Waghmare Hanumant , Mondal Nasim Ahamed , Hossain Babul
Published: September 2022

Background

Despite policies and social development, childhood malnutrition remains a significant public health and social challenge in many south Asian countries. Also, there is a lack of study for a comparative understanding between the nutrition policies and nutritional status of under-5 children in south Asian countries. In this context, the present study aims to understand the comparative evolution of nutritional policies and programs in south Asian countries between 1950 to 2016 and assess current nutritional status of children under the age of 5 in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan.

Methods

This study obtained yearly anaemia data from the Global Health Observatory Data Repository (World Health Statistics) from 1990 to 2016 for comparative analysis. The most recent Demographic Health Survey (DHS) rounds have been taken for four south Asian nations. Bivariate analysis and classical figures have been utilised to demonstrate the findings.

Results

In Bangladesh, Nepal, India, and Pakistan, the prevalence of anaemia decreased by 33%, 31%, 20%, and 12% from 1990 to 2016, respectively. While analysis of the policy and programs, the problem of under-nutrition in all selected countries stems from the lack of serious implementation of National Nutrition Policies.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the national nutrition programs require inter-sectoral coordination between central ministries within countries to reduce the anaemia level. In light of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), a multi-faceted policy should be implemented to prevent and control malnutrition problems in these countries.
Awareness of testicular cancer among adult Polish men and their tendency for prophylactic self-examination: conclusions from Movember 2020 event
Authors: Ryszawy Jakub , Kowalik Maksymilian , Wojnarowicz Jakub , Rempega Grzegorz , Kępiński Michał , Burzyński Bartłomiej , Rajwa Paweł , Paradysz Andrzej , Bryniarski Piotr
Published: September 2022

Background

Testicular cancer (TC), due to its non-specific symptoms and occurrence in young men, is particularly dangerous. A critical point for early diagnosis is awareness of the disease and the willingness to perform a testicular self-examination (TSE). The main aim of the study was to assess the knowledge of 771 adult men about testicular cancer. Additionally, the sources of information on TC and TSE were analyzed and the influence of demographic factors on the willingness to join preventative programs was examined.

Materials and methods

The study was carried out during the Movember2020 campaign, where a testicular ultrasound was performed on participants. They were asked to complete a questionnaire with 26 questions to assess their knowledge.

Results

The results obtained in the study indicate a low level of knowledge (average 3.5 points out of 18) about TC. Living in a large city (OR = 1.467; p = 0.03), as well as an earlier conversation about TC (OR = 1.639; p = 0.002), increased the awareness about the disease. Additionally it showed that many participants do not perform TSE at all (52.4%) and that only few perform TSE frequently (18.4%). Relationship status (OR = 2.832; p < 0.001) and previous conversations about TC (OR = 1.546; p = 0.02) was reported to be the main contributing factors in males deciding to have TSE.

Conclusions

Our research indicates large educational neglect in terms of knowledge about TC and reluctance in performing TSE. It is worth carrying out preventative actions periodically on an increasing scale, not only for the screening of testicular cancer, but also to expand knowledge on this subject.
Probiotic effects on sexual function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a double blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Azizi-Kutenaee Maryam , Heidari Solmaz , Taghavi Seyed-Abdolvahab , Bazarganipour Fatemeh
Published: September 2022

Background

Considering the presence of sexual dysfunction in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, our aim was to provide scientific evidence studying effect of oral probiotic on sexual function in patients with PCOS treated with letrozole in an Iranian population.

Methods

This study was a double blind randomized clinical trial. Eligible women were allocated to Lactofem plus letrozole (n = 20) or letrozole (n = 20). Folic acid was prescribed to all participants in two groups during the study. In group A, Lactofem capsule was administered daily for the first month. In the second month, letrozole (2.5 mg daily from the third day of the menstrual cycle for 5 days) plus Lactofem capsule same as previous month were prescribed. In group B, letrozole administered 2.5 days from the third day of the menstrual cycle for 5 days in the second month. All questionnaires were completed by patients after the intervention (two months after the start of treatment). The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Body Image Concern Inventory (BICI) were used to assess sexual function and body satisfaction, respectively.

Results

There is statistically significant increase in chemical pregnancy rate (10% vs. 0%; p = 0.05) and clinical pregnancy (10% vs. 0%; p = 0.05) in Probiotic plus letrozole group compared to letrozole group after intervention. Based on our results, there was a statistically significant difference in each domain and sum score of sexual function of before and after the intervention between group (P < 0.05). Our findings have been shown, after eight weeks, the probiotic plus letrozole group had a significant improvement in the FSFI domains and sum score compared to letrozole alone group. Moreover, there are a significant improvement in mean (IQR) of body image score in probiotic group [30 (4.99) vs. 40 (4.36); P < 0.01].

Conclusion

The results of the current study suggests that eight weeks of administration of probiotic may improve chemical and clinical pregnancy rate, sexual function and body satisfaction in women with PCOS.