bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic risk assessment of food safety based on an improved hidden Markov model integrating cuckoo search algorithm: A sterilized milk study
Authors: Lin Xiaoyong , Li Jiatong , Han Yongming , Geng Zhiqiang , Cui Shiying , Chu Chong
Published: January 2021

With the growth in the living standard of people, food safety and quality risk assessment has gradually become the focus. Therefore, this article realizes the dynamic risk assessment of food safety based on an improved hidden Markov model (HMM) integrating the cuckoo search algorithm (CS) (CS‐HMM). The CS is used to conduct global search to obtain the initial value of HMM, and then the Baum–Welch algorithm is used for modifying the initial value to obtain a trained risk assessment model. Finally, in terms of several benchmark functions, the accuracy of the CS algorithm is better than the PSO and the GA algorithms for seeking global optimal solution. Moreover, the presented method is applied to evaluate the safety risk of the sterilized milk production. Combined with the characteristics of time and temperature, the deterioration reasons of sterilized milk are analyzed. Moreover, the proposed method has certain theoretical significance and practical value for improving the ability of food quality risk assessment and formulating control measures in advance.

Practical applications

The presented method is applied to evaluate the safety risk of the sterilized milk production, which are supplied by the food inspection agency of Guizhou province in China. Combined with the characteristics of time and temperature, the deterioration reasons of sterilized milk are analyzed. Furthermore, the improved model breaks out of the local optimal limit, so as to better realize the risk prediction of food and obtain better evaluation results. Based on the analysis of dynamic risk assessment result with the temperature characteristics, the future risk trend can be predicted. Meanwhile, the causes affecting the deterioration of the sterilized milk and the direction to improve the quality of the sterilized milk can be obtained. In this way, risk control measures can be taken more precisely and risks can be reduced more effectively, which is helpful to the production and storage of food products.
Effects of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐2α overexpression on hepatocellular carcinoma survival: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Ding Zi‐Niu , Dong Zhao‐Ru , Chen Zhi‐Qiang , Yang Ya‐Fei , Yan Lun‐Jie , Li Hai‐Chao , Liu Kai‐Xuan , Yao Cheng‐Yu , Yan Yu‐Chuan , Yang Chun‐Cheng , Li Tao
Published: January 2021

Background and Aim

The role of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐2α (HIF‐2α) has been implicated in the clinical prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the results remain controversial. We aim to investigate the association of HIF‐1α and HIF‐2α overexpression with the prognosis and clinicopathological features of HCC.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library until June 20, 2020. Meta‐analysis was conducted to generate combined HRs with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS). Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CI were also derived by fixed or random effect model.

Results

Twenty‐two studies involving 3238 patients were included. Combined data suggested that overexpression of HIF‐1α in HCC was not only correlated with poorer OS [HR = 1.75 (95% CI: 1.53–2.00)] and DFS [HR = 1.64 (95% CI: 1.34–2.00)] but was also positively associated with vascular invasion [OR = 1.83 (95% CI: 1.36–2.48)], tumor size [OR = 1.36 (95% CI: 1.12–1.66)], and tumor number [1.74 (95% CI: 1.34–2.25)]. In contrast, HIF‐2α overexpression was not associated with the prognosis and clinicopathological features of HCC.

Conclusion

Our data provided compelling evidence of a worse prognosis of HCC in HIF‐1α overexpression patients but not HIF‐2α overexpression ones.
Twice‐Weekly Structured Interdisciplinary Bedside Rounds and Falls among Older Adult Inpatients
Authors: Basic David , Huynh Elizabeth T. , Gonzales Rinaldo , Shanley Christopher G.
Published: January 2021

Background/Objective

Ineffective interdisciplinary communication has negative impacts on patient outcomes. The use of regular structured interdisciplinary bedside rounds (SIBR), where each patient interaction lasts 3–5 minutes, is a model of care that improves interdisciplinary communication. We evaluated the impact of SIBR on in‐hospital falls.

Design

Prospective before‐after study of older people hospitalized with acute illness.

Setting

Two side‐by‐side aged care wards in a university hospital in Sydney, Australia.

Participants

A total of 3,673 consecutive inpatients of mean age 83.8 ± 7.7 years, with 1,703 before SIBR compared with 1,970 after SIBR. No patients were excluded from potential participation.

Intervention

Twice‐weekly SIBR.

Measurements

Falls data were manually extracted from a mandatory institutional incident reporting database. Medical diagnoses were based on the Australian Refined Diagnosis Related Groups classification system. Injuries due to falls were corroborated using the institutional electronic medical record (Cerner PowerChart). Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of falls and fall‐related injuries. A negative binomial distribution and a logarithmic link function were used to linearize regression equations.

Results

After SIBR, there were 7.4 falls per 1,000 occupied bed days (OBD), compared with 10.6 falls per 1,000 OBD before SIBR (P < .001). The implementation of SIBR reduced falls (IRR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.52–0.85), after adjusting for age, gender, cognitive impairment, behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, deconditioning and frailty, but not fall‐related injuries (IRR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.52–1.20).

Conclusion

This study is the first to investigate the effect of SIBR on in‐hospital falls. It provides evidence that a sustainable, twice‐weekly intervention is associated with a reduction in falls. It has the potential to be used in other settings where falls are frequent.
A Novel Curriculum on Using Life Expectancy to Inform Cancer Screening in Older Adults
Authors: Ahmed Shaista U. , Burke Meg , McGuire Maura , Massare Jacqueline , Boyd Cynthia M. , Pollack Craig E. , Lentz Caroline , Schoenborn Nancy L.
Published: January 2021

Background

Many older adults with limited life expectancy still receive cancer screening. One potential contributor is that primary care providers (PCP) are not trained to incorporate life expectancy in cancer screening recommendations. We describe the development and evaluation of a novel curriculum to address this need.

Methods

We developed and implemented a web‐based learning module within a large Maryland group practice with PCPs for older adults. We assessed attitude, knowledge, self‐efficacy, and self‐reported behavior outcomes before the module, immediately after completing the module, and 6 months afterwards.

Results

Of 172 PCPs who were invited, 86 (50%) completed the module and of these, 50 (58.1%) completed the 6‐months follow up survey. Immediately after the module, there was a significant increase in perceived importance of life expectancy (increase of 0.50 point on 10‐point scale, 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 0.27–0.73), confidence in predicting life expectancy (increase of 2.32 points on 10‐point scale, 95% CI = 1.95–2.70) and confidence in discussion screening cessation (increase of 1.69 points on 10‐point scale, 95% CI = 1.37–2.02). Knowledge in patient‐preferred communication strategies improved from 55% correct response to 97% (P < .001). However, most of these improvements dissipated by 6 months and there was no change in self‐reported behavior at 6 months compared to baseline (P = .34).

Conclusion

Although the module resulted in significant short‐term improvement in attitude, knowledge, and self‐efficacy, the changes were not sustained over time. Educational interventions such as this can be coupled with ongoing reinforcing strategies and/or decision support interventions to improve cancer‐screening practices in older adults.
Physicians' and patients' self‐perceptions of hyaluronic acid–based facial volumization: Are they compatible?
Authors: Lima Rodrigo Amaral , Moura Isabel Cristina Gomes , Pitoni João Bayama Galvão , Ramos‐e‐Silva Marcia , da Costa Adilson
Published: January 2021

Background

Facial filling based on hyaluronic acid (HA) is an esthetic procedure that is widely performed worldwide.

Methodology

Fifty patients underwent facial filling based on HA, and 10 board‐certified dermatologists evaluated clinical photographs before and after the procedure and completed a questionnaire to provide information about the procedure.

Results

All doctors and 96% of patients were agreed about the pre‐ and postprocedural photographs. Physicians were more aware of the possibility of frequent pain and erythema. Both groups showed agreement in their responses on the following topics: the possibility of hematoma and edema, a lack of secretion, improvement in patients' self‐confidence, recognition of the procedure by third parties, and knowledge of the procedure by the dermatologists themselves. However, physicians tend to overestimate the possibility of erythema, pain, and edema; they also tend to minimize the duration and discomfort of postprocedural edema and the risk of third parties noticing patients' HA filling and how much it bothers patients when third parties do notice.

Conclusion

Doctors and patients disagree on some questions about what actually happens and what is supposed to happen in facial filling procedures based on HA.
Identify the role of Human Wharton's Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells in repairing injured uterine of rat
Authors: Wang Hezhu , Yang Xiaoqing , Chen Xiaojing , Xie Huihui , Wang Junxia , Zhang Yuquan
Published: January 2021

Aim

Maternal complications caused by the cesarean delivery inhibit the capability of preserving the uterus and subsequent fertility. However, successful restoration of the incisional scar continuously still remains a challenge. This work was to evaluate the repairing effect of Human Wharton's Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hWJ‐MSC) on incisional scar of the uterine.

Methods

Eighteen rats were randomly assigned into two groups and nine for each: one group injected with hWJ‐MSC in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) and the other injected with PBS for comparison.

Results

With hWJ‐MSC in PBS injected, the uterine endometrium and myometrium with full‐thickness injury were restored and the functionality was greatly improved in comparison with the group only with PBS injected.

Conclusion

The hWJ‐MSC can repair the injured uterine effectively by promoting the uterine endometrium and myometrium cells proliferation and according to the chi‐square analysis the pregnancy is improved.
Niche differentiation, competition or habitat filtering? Mechanisms explaining co‐occurrence of plant species on wet meadows of high conservation value
Authors: Czortek Patryk , Orczewska Anna , Dyderski Marcin K.
Published: January 2021

Questions

Due to the diverse abiotic conditions and the extensive, early‐autumn, manual mowing practiced once per few years, Molinia semi‐natural wet meadows are known for their high plant species diversity. However, recent socio‐economic transformations and land‐use changes (i.e. cessation of use) have been contributing to significant biodiversity loss in Molinia meadows. Thus, understanding the mechanisms of species co‐occurrence patterns operating on well‐developed Molinia meadows may be a precondition for the restoration or regeneration success of this type of vegetation. We aimed to identify community‐level co‐existence patterns of the whole set of plant species typical of Molinia meadows, and to assess the role of co‐occurring vegetation in shaping the performance of individual species.

Location

Natura 2000 Special Area of Conservation “Łąki Dąbrowskie” (S Poland).

Methods

Using generalised multiple regression techniques on a set of vegetation traits and components of functional diversity, we assessed the role of different ecological mechanisms in shaping co‐occurrence patterns of the entire group of species typical of Molinia meadows, as well as individual species belonging to this group.

Results

When the entire group of Molinia meadow species was taken into account, niche differentiation emerged as the main mechanism influencing the co‐occurrence of plant species. When considering individual species, we revealed that their co‐existence patterns were mostly species‐specific, pointing out the predominant role of either niche differentiation, competition, habitat filtering, or a combination of these three drivers in shaping assembly processes.

Conclusions

Our results showed that the variability of niches realised by target species typical of Molinia meadows was high. Therefore, conservation of well‐developed Molinia meadows should focus on both the community, and on a single species level, aiming to maintain a complex of specific microhabitat conditions. Considering small‐size patches of these meadows scattered in a transformed, agricultural landscape, conservation of individual target species should be of the highest priority.
A framework for co‐developing conservation research projects with stakeholders: A Lake Victoria case study
Authors: van den Broek Karlijn L. , Luomba Joseph , Onyango Horace O. , Musobya Moses , Klein Sina A.
Published: January 2021

Stakeholder engagement has increasingly gained popularity in conservation research since it promotes relevant research that has impact and can inform evidence‐based policy. Lake basins can especially benefit from research co‐created with stakeholders since these regions tend to face a multitude of conservation challenges while also dealing with many stakeholders that are directly dependent on a lake's resources. Particularly important for successful, co‐created research is the first phase of stakeholder engagement, namely the co‐development of the research agenda with stakeholders. This phase tends to determine whether or not projects will be funded and implemented, therefore providing a foundation for subsequent realization of a project, as well as the impact of the research findings. The present study provides a framework for the application of stakeholder engagement in co‐developing a research agenda, as illustrated through a case study on Lake Victoria in East Africa, concluding with key lessons learned from this case study.
Habitat and microclimate affect the resting site selection of mosquitoes
Authors: Sauer F. G. , Grave J. , Lühken R. , Kiel E.
Published: January 2021

Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) use certain resting sites during their inactive phase. The microclimatic conditions of these resting sites might affect their physiology and vectorial capacity. In this study, we combined a field and a laboratory study to investigate the natural resting site and temperature preferences of mosquitoes. The field study was conducted at a forest close to Oldenburg (Lower Saxony, Germany) from May to October 2018. Mosquitoes were collected in five different natural habitats with seven replicates each. Temperature was recorded hourly at each site. Significantly more mosquitoes were collected in deadwood (predominantlyCuliseta morsitans/fumipennis) and shaded herb layer (predominantlyAedesspecies) compared to unshaded herb layer or broadleaf and coniferous trees. GLMMs revealed resting site habitats as the best predictor to explain the observed preference patterns, but microclimatic conditions are also involved in mosquito resting site selection. Most mosquitoes were collected at resting sites with relatively colder and more stable temperatures. In concert, laboratory choice experiments with a thermal gradient ring demonstrated thatCs. morsitans/fumipennisavoid temperatures over 30 °C. Understanding the small‐scaled resting site preferences and the related microclimatic conditions can improve mosquito collection techniques and refine the prediction of mosquito‐borne pathogen transmission.
Designing Ethical Online Dispute Resolution Systems: The Rise of the Fourth Party
Authors: Wing Leah , Martinez Janet , Katsh Ethan , Rule Colin
Published: January 2021

As the pandemic forces public and private institutions to move online, many court and business leaders are looking to the field of online dispute resolution (ODR) for best practices and lessons learned. Developed over the last twenty years, largely in response to the growth of e‐commerce, the ODR field has generated a deep well of theory and practice while also identifying potential ethical dilemmas and risks. The application of technology, the “fourth party,” plays an increasingly integral role in how we negotiate resolutions to our disputes, with or without a third party. A brief overview of the history of ODR’s development will set the context for the exploration of the range of tools and techniques encompassed by online dispute resolution. Consideration of the ethical challenges raised by ODR practice will illuminate key questions and choices that need to be made in designing ODR systems and in governing their use.
Assessing vaccination reactions in pediatric patients with maculopapular cutaneous mastocytosis
Authors: Johansen Maija L. , Lawley Leslie P.
Published: January 2021

Immunization compliance in the United States is declining, in part due to misinformation and fear surrounding adverse vaccination reactions. Recently, there have been data published in the allergy and immunology literature to show that there may be a relationship between routine vaccinations and induction of symptoms in cutaneous mastocytosis patients; however, this has not yet been explored in the dermatology literature. We sought to uncover the prevalence of vaccine reactions due to mast cell activation within our cohort of maculopapular cutaneous mastocytosis (MPCM) patients in order to contribute to ensuring administration safety, managing familial expectations, and encouraging continued adherence. Our results indicate that while incidence of reaction rates may be higher than the national average, they are mild and families should be counseled to follow recommended immunization schedule guidelines.
Pathways and Barriers for Women’s Mobilization during Civil War: Nepal, Colombia, and Rwanda in Comparative Perspective
Authors: Evilsizor Margo G. , Cox Fletcher D.
Published: January 2021

Under what conditions do barriers to women’s mobilization erode or emerge across various stages of civil war? The article draws upon evidence from three cases of civil war: Nepal (1996–2006), Colombia (1964–2016), and Rwanda (1990–1994). Comparative analysis of the escalation, peacemaking, and recovery process in each case reveals that the mechanisms shaping the erosion and emergence of barriers to women’s mobilization are highly interactive across all three stages of conflict. In particular, the study highlights three concepts that are essential for understanding whether or not barriers to women’s mobilization continue to erode after civil war: (1) institutional tokenism, (2) social friction, and (3) capacity to govern patriarchal backlash. This study of pathways for women’s mobilization during civil wars has important implications for the study of the interactive relationship between formal and informal institutions, and research on long‐term peacebuilding efforts designed to ameliorate deeply embedded structural and cultural violence.
The effect of foot care protocol applied to older people on foot health problems and foot care behaviours: a randomised controlled trial in a nursing home
Authors: Çatıker Aslıhan , Zincir Handan , Seviğ Emine Ümit
Published: January 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to develop a protective and improving protocol for foot health of the older people and to assess the effect of this protocol on foot problems, foot care knowledge levels and foot care behavior.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial that was conducted in a nursing home in Turkey. The research was completed with 57 older people (28 intervention group, 29 control group) over the age of 60 living in a nursing home who met the eligibility criteria. Data were collected using the Older Person Identification Form, Foot Examination Form, Foot Care Knowledge Level Form, and Foot Care Behavior Scale at baseline and 6 months later. When assessing the study data; Descriptive statistics, Student t‐test, Mann Whitney U test, Wilcoxon signed ranks test, chi‐square test, continuity (Yates) correction, Fisher exact chi‐square test, McNemar test and GEE were used.

Results

At the end of the research, there were statistically significant improvements in problems related to dermatology (appearance, hygiene, and moisture); problems related to circulation (temperature); problems related to sensory issues (feeling and pain); problems related to footwear; and problems related to self‐care between the intervention and control groups. Also, there were statistically significant improvements in problems related to dermatology (appearance and hygiene); problems related to circulation (temperature, color, and edema); and problems related to sensory issues (feeling and pain) for the posttest compared to the pretest in the intervention group (p < 0.05). In terms of foot care knowledge level and foot care behavior scale mean scores, statistically significant differences were found between the groups and for the intervention group pretest and posttest mean scores.

Conclusion

The foot care protocol applied to older people was identified to reduce foot problems by a significant level, and increase mean points for knowledge levels about foot care and the foot care behavior scale.
Daily functioning support – a qualitative exploration of rehabilitative approach in acute hospitalised care
Authors: Kannisto Kati , Hirvonen Eila , Koivuniemi Minna , Teeri Sari , Asikainen Paula , Koivunen Marita
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Hospitalised patients are at risk of temporary or permanent loss of functioning which impacts their future independence. Implementation of a rehabilitative approach in everyday nursing in the acute care setting may produce good therapeutic results and promote independent daily living of patients. Thus, the aim of the study was to explore and understand the patterns of a rehabilitative approach in acute hospital wards from the perspective of interdisciplinary team members. Specifically, our aim was to identify the factors promoting and preventing a rehabilitative approach.

Method

We conducted four focus group interviews with 21 participants, including multidisciplinary team members from acute hospital wards. Data were analysed with conventional inductive content analysis.

Results

The findings highlighted that the rehabilitative approach, as a personal way of working and personal working attitude, was a part of comprehensive nursing. The main goals of the rehabilitative approach were to support the physical functioning of the patients and their independent initiative and individuality during clinical care in hospital ward. The promoting and preventing factors that influenced the development of the rehabilitative approach consisted of personal factors, organisational factors and the physical settings of the hospital wards.

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicate that the rehabilitative approach in nursing focused on supporting the physical functioning, independence and self‐confidence of the patient. The staff highlighted that interdisciplinary teamwork was one feature of the rehabilitative approach. The rehabilitative approach in nursing should be established as a part of everyday activity in clinical practice.
“Pure Joy”: Spinoza on Laughter and Cheerfulness
Authors: Amir Lydia
Published: January 2021

Laughter is a significant topic for Renaissance and seventeenth‐century philosophers. Still, the latter rarely approved of laughter but endorsed it as useful mockery for theological or philosophical purposes. Benedict Spinoza’s view of laughter stands out as an exception to this attitude as well as to previous and later ones. Spinoza differentiates between mockery and laughter, denounces the former as evil, and characterizes the latter as “pure joy”: laughter is about oneself rather than another and originates in noticing something good, rather than base or ugly. In contrast to melancholy, cheerfulness is “always good” and is a precondition of our liberation as it furthers the use of reason. Not only is Spinoza’s view original, but it is an important source of the eighteenth‐century notions of good‐natured laughter and good humor through a more than probable influence on their proponent, the Earl of Shaftesbury. Whilst Spinoza’s view of cheerfulness is briefly addressed in recent studies, his view of laughter goes unnoticed in most commentaries and is misrepresented in humor studies. Contrary to what is assumed in the philosophy of laughter, I argue that the most important defense of laughter comes not from a British Enlightenment thinker, but from the Dutch Jewish seventeenth‐century philosopher.
Individual need and societal claims: Challenging the understanding of universalism versus selectivism in social policy
Authors: Hultqvist Sara , Hollertz Katarina
Published: January 2021

In this article, we argue that basic social policy concepts can fertilise the discussion on active labour market policy (ALMP). During the last decades, research on ALMP has become a flourishing field. This is an overall positive development. However, the development tends to fractionate the wider picture of social policy and distance the discussion from social policy seen as a multifold set of government measures that have a direct impact on the welfare of the citizens, by providing services and/or income. We analyse a local ALMP programme in the light of three classical social policy concepts: universalism, selectivism and need. To understand what is going on in ALMP programmes, we argue that it is as important to uncover claims made by the state as it is to satisfy the human needs most often presented as the objectives of ALMP programmes. We propose that the programme under study be characterised as a hybrid, combining elements frequently perceived as dichotomies in social policy literature. Selectivism and universalism are both present as principles and the programme consists of benefits in cash and in kind.
The Effect of the Degree of Premixedness on Self-Excited Combustion Instability
Authors: Howie Adam , Doleiden Daniel , Peluso Stephen , O'Connor Jacqueline
Published: January 2021

The use of lean, premixed fuel and air mixtures is a common strategy to reduce NOx emissions in gas turbine combustors. However, this strategy causes an increased susceptibility to self-excited instability, which manifests as fluctuations in heat release rate, flow velocity, and combustor acoustics that oscillate in-phase in a feedback loop. This study considers the effect of the level of premixedness on the self-excited instability in a single-nozzle combustor. In this system, the fuel can be injected inside the nozzle to create a partially-premixed mixture or far upstream to create a fully-premixed mixture, varying the level of premixedness of the fuel and air entering the combustor. When global equivalence ratio is held constant, the cases with higher levels of premixing have higher instability amplitudes. High-speed CH* chemiluminescence imaging shows that the flame for these cases is more compact and the distribution of the heat release rate oscillations is more concentrated near the corner of the combustor in the outer recirculation zones. Rayleigh index images, which are a metric for the relative phase of pressure and heat release rate oscillations, suggest that vortex rollup in the corner region is primarily responsible for determining instability characteristics when premixedness is varied. This finding is further supported through analysis of local flame edge dynamics.
Transient Aero-Thermo-Mechanical Multidimensional Analysis of a High Pressure Turbine Assembly Through a Square Cycle
Authors: Ganine Vladislav , Chew John W. , Hills Nicholas J. , Mohamed Sulfi Noor , Miller Matthew M.
Published: January 2021

Better understanding and more accurate prediction of heat transfer and cooling flows in aero engine components in steady and transient operating regimes are essential to modern engine designs aiming at reduced cooling air consumption and improved engine efficiencies. This paper presents a simplified coupled transient analysis methodology that allows assessment of the aerothermal and thermomechanical responses of engine components together with cooling air mass flow, pressure and temperature distributions in an automatic fully integrated way. This is achieved by assembling a fluid network with contribution of components of different geometrical dimensions coupled to each other through dimensionally heterogeneous interfaces. More accurate local flow conditions, heat transfer and structural displacement are resolved on a smaller area of interest with multidimensional surface coupled computational fluid dynamics (CFD)/FE codes. Contributions of the whole engine air-system are predicted with a faster monodimensional flow network code. Matching conditions at the common interfaces are enforced at each time-step exactly by employing an efficient iterative scheme. The coupled simulation is performed on an industrial high pressure turbine (HPT) disk component run through a square cycle. Predictions are compared against the available experimental data. The paper proves the reliability and performance of the multidimensional coupling technique in a realistic industrial setting. The results underline the importance of including more physical details into transient thermal modeling of turbine engine components.
Cholesterol content in the membrane promotes key lipid-protein interactions in a pentameric serotonin-gated ion channel
Authors: Crnjar Alessandro , Molteni Carla
Published: January 2021

Pentameric ligand-gated ion channels (pLGICs), embedded in the lipid membranes of nerve cells, mediate fast synaptic transmission and are major pharmaceutical targets. Because of their complexity and the limited knowledge of their structure, their working mechanisms have still to be fully unraveled at the molecular level. Over the past few years, evidence that the lipid membrane may modulate the function of membrane proteins, including pLGICs, has emerged. Here, we investigate, by means of molecular dynamics simulations, the behavior of the lipid membrane at the interface with the 5-HT3A receptor (5-HT3AR), a representative pLGIC which is the target of nausea-suppressant drugs, in a nonconductive state. Three lipid compositions are studied, spanning different concentrations of the phospholipids, 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine, and of cholesterol, hence a range of viscosities. A variety of lipid interactions and persistent binding events to different parts of the receptor are revealed in the investigated models, providing snapshots of the dynamical environment at the membrane-receptor interface. Some of these events result in lipid intercalation within the transmembrane domain, and others reach out to protein key sections for signal transmission and receptor activation, such as the Cys-loop and the M2-M3 loop. In particular, phospholipids, with their long hydrophobic tails, play an important role in these interactions, potentially providing a bridge between these two structures. A higher cholesterol content appears to promote lipid persistent binding to the receptor.
Surface ligand removal in atomic layer deposition of GaN using triethylgallium
Authors: Deminskyi Petro , Hsu Chih-Wei , Bakhit Babak , Rouf Polla , Pedersen Henrik
Published: January 2021

Gallium nitride (GaN) is one of the most important semiconductor materials in modern electronics. While GaN films are routinely deposited by chemical vapor deposition at around 1000 °C, low-temperature routes for GaN deposition need to be better understood. Herein, we present an atomic layer deposition (ALD) process for GaN-based on triethyl gallium (TEG) and ammonia plasma and show that the process can be improved by adding a reactive pulse, a “B-pulse” between the TEG and ammonia plasma, making it an ABC-type pulsed process. We show that the material quality of the deposited GaN is not affected by the B-pulse, but that the film growth per ALD cycle increases when a B-pulse is added. We suggest that this can be explained by the removal of ethyl ligands from the surface by the B-pulse, enabling a more efficient nitridation by the ammonia plasma. We show that the B-pulsing can be used to enable GaN deposition with a thermal ammonia pulse, albeit of x-ray amorphous films.
Perspectives of Students With Disabilities Toward Physical Education: A Review Update 2014–2019
Authors: Holland Katherine , Haegele Justin A.
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this article is to review qualitative inquiries examining the perspectives of students with disabilities toward physical education (PE) published from 2014 to 2019, as an update to the 2015 review by Haegele and Sutherland. Keyword searches were used to identify articles from nine electronic databases, and seven articles met all inclusion criteria. The seven selected articles were subjected to a narrative analysis, and three thematic clusters emerged: (a) an “inconvenience”: the PE teacher’s influence on quality of experience, (b) “we play together and I like it”: friendships central to the quality of PE experience, and (c) “no lift access to the gym”: barriers to successful participation. Findings from this review support the notion that students with disabilities may have positive experiences in PE if they are offered appropriate modifications and accommodations and are provided with increased kind and supportive interactions with staff and peers.
Mechanisms of Attenuation by Genetic Recoding of Viruses
Authors: Gonçalves-Carneiro Daniel , Bieniasz Paul D.
Published: January 2021

The development of safe and effective vaccines against viruses is central to disease control. With advancements in DNA synthesis technology, the production of synthetic viral genomes has fueled many research efforts that aim to generate attenuated viruses by introducing synonymous mutations.
Novel Biological Functions of the NsdC Transcription Factor in Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Alves de Castro Patrícia , Valero Clara , Chiaratto Jéssica , Colabardini Ana Cristina , Pardeshi Lakhansing , Pereira Silva Lilian , Almeida Fausto , Campos Rocha Marina , Nascimento Silva Roberto , Malavazi Iran , Du Wenyue , Dyer Paul S. , Brock Matthias , Vieira Loures Flávio , Wong Koon Ho , Goldman Gustavo H.
Published: January 2021

Aspergillus fumigatus
is an opportunistic human fungal pathogen and the main causal agent of invasive aspergillosis, a life-threatening infection especially in immunocompromised patients.
A. fumigatus
can undergo both asexual and sexual reproductive cycles, and the regulation of both cycles involves several genes and pathways. Here, we have characterized one of these genetic determinants, the NsdC transcription factor, which was initially identified in a screen of transcription factor null mutants showing sensitivity when exposed to high concentrations of calcium.
Macular buckling versus vitrectomy on macular hole associated macular detachment in eyes with high myopia: a randomised trial
Authors: Zhao Xiujuan , Li Yonghao , Ma Wei , Lian Ping , Yu Xiling , Chen Shida , Huang Xia , Liu Bingqian , Lu Lin
Published: January 2021

Aim

To compare the efficacy of macular buckling (MB) and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for full-thickness macular holes (FTMH) and associated macular detachment (MD) in highly myopic eyes.

Methods

Prospective interventional case series of eyes undergoing PPV or MB for FTMH and MD.

Main outcome measures

Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at postoperative month 24. Other measured outcomes include the initial surgical success rate, macular hole closure rate and the progression of myopic maculopathy.

Results

A total of 53 eyes from 53 participants were included in this study (26 participants receiving MB and 27 participants receiving PPV), and finally 49 eyes from 49 participants (25 participants in the MB group and 24 participants in the PPV group) were analysed. At postoperative month 24, the BCVA had improved significantly in those that underwent either MB (p<0.001) or PPV (p=0.04). The difference between the groups was not significant (p=0.653). The surgical failure rate after the primary treatment was significantly higher in the PPV group than the MB group (25.00% vs 4.00%, respectively; p=0.04). The macular closure rate was higher in the MB group compared with the PPV group, but the difference was not statistically significant (64.00% vs 58.33%, respectively; p=0.45). Myopic maculopathy development may be more severe following PPV than following MB surgery.

Conclusion

Patients with high myopia obtained anatomical and functional improvements from either MB or PPV. However, MB achieved a significantly higher success rate in retinal reattachment compared with PPV.

Trial registration number

NCT03433547.
Graft detachments in endothelial keratoplasty
Authors: Deshmukh Rashmi , Nair Sridevi , Ting Darren Shu Jeng , Agarwal Tushar , Beltz Jacqueline , Vajpayee Rasik B
Published: January 2021

Graft detachment is the most common complication of endothelial keratoplasty. With the ongoing advancements in the field of endothelial keratoplasty, our understanding of risk factors of graft detachments and its management has been evolving. Various prevention measures have been described in literature including presoaking the donor graft, anterior chamber tamponade, venting incisions, sutures to prevent dislocation of graft. Management of a detached graft involves secondary interventions such as rebubbling, suturing and regrafts. In this review, we discuss graft detachment in different types of endothelial keratoplasty techniques including Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty, Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty and Descemet’s membrane endothelial keratoplasty; with emphasis on incidence, risk factors, preventive measures and their management.
Injury prevention knowledge, beliefs and strategies in elite female footballers at the FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019
Authors: Geertsema Celeste , Geertsema Liesel , Farooq Abdulaziz , Harøy Joar , Oester Chelsea , Weber Alexis , Bahr Roald
Published: January 2021

Objectives

This study assessed knowledge, beliefs and practices of elite female footballers regarding injury prevention.

Methods

A survey was sent to players participating in the FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019. Questions covered three injury prevention domains: (1) knowledge; (2) attitudes and beliefs; (3) prevention practices in domestic clubs. Additionally, ACL injury history was assessed.

Results

Out of 552 players, 196 women responded (35.5%). More than 80% of these considered injury risk to be moderate or high. Players listed knee, ankle, thigh, head and groin as the most important injuries in women’s football. The most important risk factors identified were low muscle strength, followed by poor pitch quality, playing on artificial turf, too much training, reduced recovery and hard tackles. In these elite players, 15% did not have any permanent medical staff in their domestic clubs, yet more than 75% had received injury prevention advice and more than 80% performed injury prevention exercises in their clubs. Players identified the two most important implementation barriers as player motivation and coach attitude. Two-thirds of players used the FIFA 11+ programme in their clubs.

Conclusions

This diverse group of elite players demonstrated good knowledge of risk level and injury types in women’s football. Of the risk factors emphasised by players, there was only one intrinsic risk factor (strength), but several factors out of their control (pitch quality and type, training volume and hard tackles). Still players had positive attitudes and beliefs regarding injury prevention exercises and indicated a high level of implementation, despite a lack of medical support.
Patient and parent perspectives on transition from paediatric to adult healthcare in rheumatic diseases: an interview study
Authors: Jiang Ivy , Major Gabor , Singh-Grewal Davinder , Teng Claris , Kelly Ayano , Niddrie Fiona , Chaitow Jeffrey , O’Neill Sean , Hassett Geraldine , Damodaran Arvin , Bernays Sarah , Manera Karine , Tong Allison , Tunnicliffe David J
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To describe the experiences, priorities, and needs of patients with rheumatic disease and their parents during transition from paediatric to adult healthcare.

Setting

Face-to-face and telephone semistructured interviews were conducted from December 2018 to September 2019 recruited from five hospital centres in Australia.

Participants

Fourteen young people and 16 parents were interviewed. Young people were included if they were English speaking, aged 14–25 years, diagnosed with an inflammatory rheumatic disease (eg, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, juvenile dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, panniculitis, familial Mediterranean fever) before 18 years of age. Young people were not included if they were diagnosed in the adult setting.

Results

We identified four themes with respective subthemes: avoid repeat of past disruption (maintain disease stability, preserve adjusted personal goals, protect social inclusion); encounter a daunting adult environment (serious and sombre mood, discredited and isolated identity, fear of a rigid system); establish therapeutic alliances with adult rheumatology providers (relinquish a trusting relationship, seek person-focused care, redefine personal–professional boundaries, reassurance of alternative medical supports, transferred trust to adult doctor) and negotiate patient autonomy (confidence in formerly gained independence, alleviate burden on patients, mediate parental anxiety).

Conclusions

During transition, patients want to maintain disease stability, develop a relationship with their adult provider centralised on personal goals and access support networks. Strategies to comprehensively communicate information between providers, support self-management, and negotiate individualised goals for independence during transition planning may improve satisfaction, and health and treatment outcomes.
Temporomandibular disorders in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis and at-risk individuals in the Dutch population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kroese Johanna M , Volgenant Catherine M C , Crielaard Wim , Loos Bruno , van Schaardenburg Dirkjan , Visscher Corine M , Lobbezoo Frank
Published: January 2021

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (ERA) and individuals at-risk of RA.

Methods

150 participants were recruited in three groups (50 per group): (1) patients with ERA (2010 EULAR criteria) (2) at-risk individuals and (3) healthy controls. All participants were tested for seropositivity of rheumatoid factor and anticitrullinated protein antibodies. A possible TMD diagnosis was determined according to the standardised and validated diagnostic criteria for TMD (DC/TMD) in five categories: myalgia, arthralgia, articular disc displacement, degenerative joint disease and headache attributed to TMD. Results were tested for the prevalence of TMD (all categories combined) and TMD pain (myalgia and/or arthralgia). To investigate a possible role for bruxism, a probable sleep and/or awake bruxism diagnosis was determined based on self-report and several clinical features.

Results

The prevalence of any TMD diagnosis did not differ between the three groups. However, at-risk individuals more often had a TMD-pain diagnosis than healthy controls (p=0.046). No such difference was found between the ERA group and the control group. However, within the ERA group, seronegative patients had a TMD-pain diagnosis more often than seropositive patients (4/12 (33%) vs 3/38 (8%), p=0.048). Participants with a TMD-pain diagnosis were more often diagnosed with probable sleep bruxism than those without a TMD-pain diagnosis.

Conclusion

The prevalence of TMD pain is increased in individuals at-risk of RA and seronegative ERA patients, and is associated with bruxism signs and symptoms. These results suggest that health professionals should be alert to TMD pain in these groups.
HIV non-occupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP) usage among five key populations in China
Authors: Li Haochu , Wei Ran , Piqueiras Eduardo , Chow Eric P F , Jiao Kedi , Lewis Taylor , Ma Wei
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To examine the feasibility of non-occupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP) as a national strategy for HIV prevention in China, we investigated nPEP usage and related sociodemographic and behavioural factors among five key populations at high risk of contracting HIV.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study among five key populations from November 2018 to September 2019 in China using convenience sampling to recruit participants aged ≥18 years, self-reporting HIV status as either negative or unknown and providing written informed consent. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were fitted.

Results

Our analysis included data from 2022 participants with a mean age of 35 years (SD=11.62). Only 57 (2.82%) participants had ever used nPEP. Sociodemographic and behavioural factors related to nPEP usage included populations (p<0.0001), age (p<0.05), education (p<0.05), nPEP knowledge (p<0.01), receiving conventional HIV prevention services (p<0.05) and HIV testing (p<0.05). A significant percentage (26%) of nPEP users used nPEP medication more than once. Challenges and concerns, such as multiple use of nPEP and syndemic conditions, were emerging.

Conclusions

Key populations in China had low nPEP usage rates. Female sex workers, people who use drugs, older and illiterate individuals with poor nPEP knowledge, not using HIV prevention services or never tested for HIV should be emphasised. Implementing nPEP services would be an important way to access high-risk individuals for intensive and tailored HIV prevention and intervention. Challenges of providing nPEP services and future study foci are highlighted.
Comparison of staircase and asymmetrical before–after, control–impact (aBACI) experimental designs to test the effectiveness of stream restoration at increasing juvenile steelhead density
Authors: Loughin Thomas M. , Bennett Stephen N. , Bouwes Nicolaas
Published: January 2021

Before–after, control–impact (BACI) experimental designs are commonly used in large-scale environmental experiments, but these designs can be confounded by location and time interactions. Staircase designs, where replicate treatments are staggered temporally, have been suggested as an alternative to BACI designs. We performed a simulation study based on data from an ongoing watershed-scale restoration experiment within three streams to test the effectiveness of adding large wood to increase habitat complexity and abundance and productivity of juvenile steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss). We compared the power of two asymmetric BACI (aBACI) designs with two staircase designs for detecting changes in the density of steelhead (fish·m–2). A staircase design where treatments were temporally staggered in one treatment section in each stream had the highest power and best precision, especially when the innate spatial and temporal variances of steelhead density were large. A traditional BACI performed the worst, and a variation on another BACI and staircase design had intermediate performance. Multistream staircase designs are also more logistically and economically feasible and can maximize learning by replicating experiments across different stream types.