bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of the efficacy of Unna boot in the treatment of venous leg ulcers
Authors: Paranhos Thalita , Paiva Caroline Souza Bosco , Cardoso Fernanda Cássia Israel , Apolinário Priscila Peruzzo , Rodrigues Roberta Cunha Matheus , Oliveira Henrique Ceretta , Saidel Maria Giovana Borges , Dini Ariane Polidoro , Oliveira‐Kumakura Ana Railka Souza , Lima Maria Helena Melo
Published: February 2021

This systematic review determined the effectiveness of the Unna boot in the treatment of venous leg ulcers (VLUs) by assessing the quality of the available evidence. A systematic search of studies published between August 2019 and February 2020 was conducted using the PubMed, PubMed/PMC, BVS/BIREME, CINAHL, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, ProQuest, BDTD, CAPES Thesis and Dissertation, OPEN THESIS, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination and SciELO databases. Studies were eligible if they reported primary studies, controlled clinical trials, quasi‐experimental studies or observational studies (cross‐sectional studies or cohort studies). We identified 302 articles. After screening and critical appraisal, eight articles were included in this review, while six articles were included in the meta‐analysis. Four studies were included in the outcome of complete ulcer healing rate with a weighted estimate of the odds ratio of 0.43 (95% CI = 0.188–1.01). No evidence of the presence of considerable heterogeneity was observed (p = 0.35, I2 = 32%). Two studies were assigned to the outcome time to complete ulcer healing (days) with a weighted estimated mean difference of 41.3 days (95% CI = 21.62–61.04). Evidence of the presence of considerable heterogeneity was observed (p = 0.01, I2 = 85%). The results showed a moderate degree of evidence that there is no difference in the healing rates of VLUs with the use of the Unna boot. For the time to complete ulcer healing, the low number of studies and low classification impaired the reporting at any level of evidence.
Internet-Based Skill Learning
Authors: Fukuda Shuichi , Matsuura Yoshifusa , Dzbor Martin
Published: February 2021

Non-verbal motional skill plays a very important role in manufacturing. The transfer of the skill is important in two aspects:One is for passing the skill on to others, either from generation to generation or from one place to another. The other is for integrating this information into design. For both of these purposes, the symbolization of motional skill is necessary in order effectively to represent it and to use it. Therefore, in this work, we digitized motion data and allotted attributes to each data chunk and developed a client/server system on the internet. The teacher and the student can teach and learn on their own client machines. Our system pennits the teacher and the student to share the processes of learning in addition to the results.
Agent-Based Integrated Product Teams
Authors: Obrst Leo , Woytowitz Michael , Rock Denny , Lander Susan , Gallagher Kevin , Decker Keith
Published: February 2021

We propose an agent-based architecture for providing partially automated support to large, concurrent engineering environments that have adopted Integrated Product Team (IPT) practices. We describe classes of agents, show various views from the individual users to the network with a hierarchy for control and coordination, and sketch our strategies for incremental implementation. We have built a Task Structure Specification Tool to delineate and manage the IPT tasks, using blackboard data structures and World-Wide Web compatibility. We review related agent-based engineering efforts, which generally are not sufficient for IPT integration. We suggest that implementing computational IPTs remains a large challenge awaiting agent technologies.
Tri-modality cavitation mapping in shock wave lithotripsy
Authors: Li Mucong , Sankin Georgy , Vu Tri , Yao Junjie , Zhong Pei
Published: February 2021

Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) has been widely used for non-invasive treatment of kidney stones. Cavitation plays an important role in stone fragmentation, yet it may also contribute to renal injury during SWL. It is therefore crucial to determine the spatiotemporal distributions of cavitation activities to maximize stone fragmentation while minimizing tissue injury. Traditional cavitation detection methods include high-speed optical imaging, active cavitation mapping (ACM), and passive cavitation mapping (PCM). While each of the three methods provides unique information about the dynamics of the bubbles, PCM has most practical applications in biological tissues. To image the dynamics of cavitation bubble collapse, we previously developed a sliding-window PCM (SW-PCM) method to identify each bubble collapse with high temporal and spatial resolution. In this work, to further validate and optimize the SW-PCM method, we have developed tri-modality cavitation imaging that includes three-dimensional high-speed optical imaging, ACM, and PCM seamlessly integrated in a single system. Using the tri-modality system, we imaged and analyzed laser-induced single cavitation bubbles in both free field and constricted space and shock wave-induced cavitation clusters. Collectively, our results have demonstrated the high reliability and spatial-temporal accuracy of the SW-PCM approach, which paves the way for the future in vivo applications on large animals and humans in SWL.
Noninvasive monitoring of hepatic glutathione depletion through fluorescence imaging and blood testing
Authors: Jiang Xingya , Zhou Qinhan , Du Bujie , Li Siqing , Huang Yingyu , Chi Zhikai , Lee William M. , Yu Mengxiao , Zheng Jie
Published: February 2021

Hepatic glutathione depletion, a crucial pathophysiological event, can now be readily monitored for early disease remedy.
Patient-tailored design for selective co-inhibition of leukemic cell subpopulations
Authors: Ianevski Aleksandr , Lahtela Jenni , Javarappa Komal K. , Sergeev Philipp , Ghimire Bishwa R. , Gautam Prson , Vähä-Koskela Markus , Turunen Laura , Linnavirta Nora , Kuusanmäki Heikki , Kontro Mika , Porkka Kimmo , Heckman Caroline A. , Mattila Pirkko , Wennerberg Krister , Giri Anil K. , Aittokallio Tero
Published: February 2021

Machine learning and single-cell data inform personalized drug combinations that selectively co-inhibit cancer cell populations.
Top German scientist fired after police raid of homes and offices
Authors: Feldwisch-Drentrup Hinnerk
Published: February 2021

Reinhard Hüttl, head of earth science center and national academy official, faces allegations of financial crimes.
Deaths of health workers in Africa highlight vaccine inequity
Authors: Kupferschmidt Kai
Published: February 2021

Growing toll on fragile health systems prompts calls for rich countries to share their doses.
England's Stonehenge was erected in Wales first
Authors: Curry Andrew
Published: February 2021

Stones were set upright before being moved east.
The long road
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: February 2021

Early signs suggest COVID-19 vaccines are having an impact, but questions abound about the path to normal.
We need a global science-policy body on chemicals and waste
Authors: Wang Zhanyun , Altenburger Rolf , Backhaus Thomas , Covaci Adrian , Diamond Miriam L. , Grimalt Joan O. , Lohmann Rainer , Schäffer Andreas , Scheringer Martin , Selin Henrik , Soehl Anna , Suzuki Noriyuki
Published: February 2021

Major gaps in current efforts limit policy responses
Phage-assisted evolution of botulinum neurotoxin proteases with reprogrammed specificity
Authors: Blum Travis R. , Liu Hao , Packer Michael S. , Xiong Xiaozhe , Lee Pyung-Gang , Zhang Sicai , Richter Michelle , Minasov George , Satchell Karla J. F. , Dong Min , Liu David R.
Published: February 2021

Moving targets of neurotoxins

Proteases that cleave protein targets at specific sequences control many biological functions. The ability to reprogram proteases to cleave new sequences of our choosing would enable new therapeutic and biotechnological applications. Blum
et al.
report a laboratory evolution method to rapidly evolve proteases that cut new protein sequences and lose their ability to cut nontarget sequences (see the Perspective by Stenmark). Using this method, they evolved botulinum neurotoxin proteases, an important class of enzymes used in patients, to selectively cleave new targets, including a protein unrelated to those natively cleaved by these proteases. This work establishes a powerful approach to generate proteases with tailor-made specificities.

Science
, this issue p.
803
; see also p.
782
New genes from borrowed parts
Authors: Wacholder Aaron , Carvunis Anne-Ruxandra
Published: February 2021

Vertebrate genes acquire new capabilities by capturing parasitic genomic elements
Portrait of a groundbreaking astronomer
Vera Rubin: A Life
Jacqueline Mitton and Simon Mitton
Harvard University Press, 2021. 320 pp.
Authors: Behrman Joanna
Published: February 2021

A new biography paints a vivid picture of the life of dark matter pioneer Vera Rubin
Re-engineering Botox
Authors: Stenmark Pål
Published: February 2021

Botulinum neurotoxin is altered to recognize a different substrate
A universal coronavirus vaccine
Authors: Koff Wayne C. , Berkley Seth F.
Published: February 2021

COVID-19 has already produced catastrophic social, economic, and public health consequences, with more than 107 million documented cases and 2.3 million deaths. Although this pandemic is far from over, we now have the tools to end it, with the largest and most rapid global deployment of vaccines under way. That we got this far so quickly is remarkable, but next time we might not be so lucky. More virulent and deadly coronaviruses are waiting in the wings. Thus, the world needs a universal coronavirus vaccine.
Paediatric bladder neurofibroma on bilateral ureterostomy: rare case report—strategic management
Authors: Arunachalam Pavai , Sen Sudipta , Balaji Dhanashree , Sam Cenita J
Published: February 2021

Urogenital involvement in neurofibromatosis is extremely rare and thus is less documented. Herein, we discuss a 11-year-old boy who was referred with a diagnosis of neurofibroma bladder on bilateral flank ureterostomy with mild renal failure. A diagnosis of neurofibroma of the bladder with ureterohydronephrosis had been made and partial excision had been attempted, followed by bilateral ureterostomy because of increasing ureterohydronephrosis. He was 13 years and wanted to be dry as he wanted to go to school. With the plan of attaining dryness with stable upper tracts, he was posted for surgery. Near-total excision followed by a sigmoid conduit was performed. The biopsy was reported as plexiform neurofibroma and is on regular follow-up, dry on a stoma bag with stable renal parameters.
Floor of mouth schwannoma mimicking a salivary gland neoplasm: a report of the case and review of the literature
Authors: Nassehi Yalda , Rashid Arif , Pitiyage Gayani , Jayaram Rahul
Published: February 2021

Schwannomas or neurilemmomas are slow-growing, benign and often firm lumps that are typically painless. They are extremely rare in the oral cavity, with the tongue and the palate being the most common intraoral sites. This is a case report of this pathology in the floor of the mouth. We present a case of a 28-year-old female patient with a 2-month history of a floor of mouth swelling. On clinical examination this was non-tender and appeared firm. An ultrasound of the lesion was performed which revealed a well-defined, rounded and low reflective soft tissue mass. Following an MRI scan and surgical excision of the lesion, a definitive diagnosis of a schwannoma was made. The presence of schwannoma in the oral cavity is unusual. Based on the literature and the presented case, it should be considered as a differential diagnosis until the final histopathological confirmation.
Inased (inhaled sedation in ICU) trial protocol: a multicentre randomised open-label trial
Authors: Bailly Pierre , Egreteau Pierre-Yves , Ehrmann Stephan , Thille Arnaud W , Guitton Christophe , Grillet Guillaume , Reizine Florian , Huet Olivier , Jaber S , Nowak Emmanuel , L"her Erwan
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The use of sedation in intensive care units (ICUs) is necessary and ubiquitous. The impact of sedation strategy on outcome, particularly when delivered early after initiation of mechanical ventilation, is unknown. Evidence is increasing that volatile anaesthetic agents could be associated with better outcome. Their use in delirium prevention is unknown.

Methods and analysis

This study is an investigator-initiated, prospective, multicentre, two-arm, randomised, control, open-trial comparing inhaled sedation strategy versus intravenous sedation strategy in mechanically ventilated patients in ICU. Two hundred and fifty patients will be randomly assigned to the intravenous sedation group or inhaled sedation group, with a 1:1 ratio in two groups according to the sedation strategy. The primary outcome is the occurrence of delirium assessed using two times a day confusion assessment method for the ICU (CAM-ICU). Secondary outcomes include cognitive and functional outcomes at 3 and 12 months.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Regional Ethics Committee (CPP Ouest) and national authorities (ANSM). The results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT04341350
Quality of life among adult patients living with diabetes in Rwanda: a cross-sectional study in outpatient clinics
Authors: Lygidakis Charilaos , Uwizihiwe Jean Paul , Bia Michela , Uwinkindi Francois , Kallestrup Per , Vögele Claus
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To report on the disease-related quality of life of patients living with diabetes mellitus in Rwanda and identify its predictors.

Design

Cross-sectional study, part of the baseline assessment of a cluster-randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Outpatient clinics for non-communicable diseases of nine hospitals across Rwanda.

Participants

Between January and August 2019, 206 patients were recruited as part of the clinical trial. Eligible participants were those aged 21–80 years and with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus for at least 6 months. Illiterate patients, those with severe hearing or visual impairments, those with severe mental health conditions, terminally ill, and those pregnant or in the postpartum period were excluded

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Disease-specific quality of life was measured with the Kinyarwanda version of the Diabetes-39 (D-39) questionnaire. A glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) test was performed on all patients. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, including medical history, disease-related complications and comorbidities.

Results

The worst affected dimensions of the D-39 were ‘anxiety and worry’ (mean=51.63, SD=25.51), ‘sexual functioning’ (mean=44.58, SD=37.02), and ‘energy and mobility’ (mean=42.71, SD=20.69). Duration of the disease and HbA1c values were not correlated with any of the D-39 dimensions. A moderating effect was identified between use of insulin and achieving a target HbA1c of 7% in the ‘diabetes control’ scale. The most frequent comorbidity was hypertension (49.0% of participants), which had a greater negative effect on the ‘diabetes control’ and ‘social burden’ scales in women. Higher education was a predictor of less impact on the ‘social burden’ and ‘energy and mobility’ scales.

Conclusions

Several variables were identified as predictors for the five dimensions of quality of life that were studied, providing opportunities for tailored preventive programmes. Further prospective studies are needed to determine causal relationships.

Trial registration number

NCT03376607.
Prognostic value of reduction in left atrial size during a follow-up of heart failure: an observational study
Authors: Shiba Masayuki , Kato Takao , Morimoto Takeshi , Yaku Hidenori , Inuzuka Yasutaka , Tamaki Yodo , Ozasa Neiko , Seko Yuta , Yamamoto Erika , Yoshikawa Yusuke , Kitai Takeshi , Yamashita Yugo , Iguchi Moritake , Nagao Kazuya , Kawase Yuichi , Morinaga Takashi , Toyofuku Mamoru , Furukawa Yutaka , Ando Kenji , Kadota Kazushige , Sato Yukihito , Kuwahara Koichiro , Kimura Takeshi
Published: February 2021

Objective

The association between sequential changes in left atrial diameter (LAD) and prognosis in heart failure (HF) remains to be elucidated. The present study aimed to investigate the link between reduction in LAD and clinical outcomes in patients with HF.

Design

A multicentre prospective cohort study.

Setting

This study was nested from the Kyoto Congestive Heart Failure registry including consecutive patients admitted for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) in 19 hospitals throughout Japan.

Participants

The current study population included 673 patients with HF who underwent both baseline and 6-month follow-up echocardiography with available paired LAD data. We divided them into two groups: the reduction in the LAD group (change <0 mm) (n=398) and the no-reduction in the LAD group (change ≥0 mm) (n=275).

Primary and secondary outcomes

The primary outcome measure was a composite of all-cause death or hospitalisation for HF during 180 days after 6-month follow-up echocardiography. The secondary outcome measures were defined as the individual components of the primary composite outcome measure and a composite of cardiovascular death or hospitalisation for HF.

Results

The cumulative 180-day incidence of the primary outcome measure was significantly lower in the reduction in the LAD group than in the no-reduction in the LAD group (13.3% vs 22.2%, p=0.002). Even after adjusting 15 confounders, the lower risk of reduction in LAD relative to no-reduction in LAD for the primary outcome measure remained significant (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.97 p=0.04).

Conclusion

Patients with reduction in LAD during follow-up after ADHF hospitalisation had a lower risk for a composite endpoint of all-cause death or HF hospitalisation, suggesting that the change of LAD might be a simple and useful echocardiographic marker during follow-up.
Hospice care access inequalities: a systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Tobin Jake , Rogers Alice , Winterburn Isaac , Tullie Sebastian , Kalyanasundaram Asanish , Kuhn Isla , Barclay Stephen
Published: February 2021

Background

Inequalities in access to hospice care is a source of considerable concern; white, middle-class, middle-aged patients with cancer have traditionally been over-represented in hospice populations.

Objective

To identify from the literature the demographic characteristics of those who access hospice care more often, focusing on: diagnosis, age, gender, marital status, ethnicity, geography and socioeconomic status.

Design

Systematic literature review and narrative synthesis.

Method

Searches of Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Assia and Embase databases from January 1987 to end September 2019 were conducted. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed studies of adult patients in the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, receiving inpatient, day, outpatient and community hospice care. Of the 45 937 titles retrieved, 130 met the inclusion criteria. Narrative synthesis of extracted data was conducted.

Results

An extensive literature search demonstrates persistent inequalities in hospice care provision: patients without cancer, the oldest old, ethnic minorities and those living in rural or deprived areas are under-represented in hospice populations. The effect of gender and marital status is inconsistent. There is a limited literature concerning hospice service access for the LGBTQ+ community, homeless people and those living with HIV/AIDS, diabetes and cystic fibrosis.

Conclusion

Barriers of prognostic uncertainty, institutional cultures, particular needs of certain groups and lack of public awareness of hospice services remain substantial challenges to the hospice movement in ensuring equitable access for all.
Acceptability of no-test medical abortion provided via telemedicine during Covid-19: analysis of patient-reported outcomes
Authors: Porter Erlank Chelsey , Lord Jonathan , Church Kathryn
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The English government approved both stages of early medical abortion (EMA), using mifepristone and misoprostol under 10 weeks’ gestation, for at-home use on 30 March 2020. MSI Reproductive Choices UK (MSUK), one of the largest providers of abortion services in England, launched a no-test telemedicine EMA pathway on 6 April 2020. The objectives of this study were to report key patient-reported outcome measures and to assess whether our sample was representative of the whole population receiving no-test telemedicine EMA.

Methods

A sample of all MSUK’s telemedicine EMA patients between April and August 2020 were invited to opt in to a follow-up call to answer clinical and satisfaction questions. A total of 1243 (13.7% of all telemedicine EMAs) were successfully followed-up, on average within 5 days post-procedure.

Results

Patients reported high confidence in telemedicine EMA and high satisfaction with the convenience, privacy and ease of managing their abortion at home. The sample responding were broadly equivalent to the whole population receiving telemedicine. No patient reported that they were unable to consult privately. The majority (1035, 83%) of patients reported preferring the telemedicine pathway, with 824 (66%) indicating that they would choose telemedicine again if COVID-19 were no longer an issue.

Conclusions

Telemedicine EMA is a valued, private, convenient and more accessible option that is highly acceptable for patients seeking an abortion, especially those for whom in-clinic visits are logistically or emotionally challenging. Evidence that this pathway would be a first choice again in future for most patients supports the case to make telemedicine EMA permanent.
Expanding insurance coverage for in vitro fertilisation with preimplantation genetic testing: putting the cart before the horse
Authors: Lisi Emily C
Published: February 2021

Madison Kilbride recently argued that insurance (eg, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)) should cover in vitro fertilisation with preimplantation genetic testing (IVF-PGT) services for couples at high risk of having a child affected with a genetic condition. She argues that IVF-PGT meets CMS’s definition of ‘medically necessary care’, where such care includes ‘services or supplies needed to diagnose or treat an illness, injury, condition, disease or its symptoms’. Kilbride argues that IVF-PGT satisfies this definition in two ways: as a diagnostic tool and as a treatment. Contradicting Kilbride, however, I argue that IVF-PGT provides neither diagnosis nor treatment under CMS’s definition. Thus, as long as we accept CMS’s definition of medically necessary care—which Kilbride does, explicitly—it follows that IVF-PGT does not count as medically necessary care. Still, there may be other reasons to conclude that IVF-Preimplantation genetic testing should be covered, and so, it would be a mistake to reject Kilbride’s conclusion altogether. The problem is simply that Kilbride’s argument—that the procedure should be covered because it is medically necessary per CMS’s definition—is not sound. I conclude by discussing a number of other genetic services that are not currently being covered despite the fact that (unlike IVF-PGT) they do seem to satisfy CMS’s definition of ‘medically necessary diagnosis or treatment’. These services, I argue, should be provided under CMS before we consider expanding coverage to include elective procedures such as IVF-PGT.
Controlled locomotion of a droplet propelled by an encapsulated squirmer
Authors: Kree R. , Zippelius A.
Published: February 2021

We work out the propulsion of a viscous drop which is driven by two mechanisms: the active velocity of an encapsulated squirmer and an externally applied force acting on the squirmer. Of particular interest is the existence of a stable comoving state of drop and squirmer, allowing for controlled manipulation of the viscous drop by external forcing. The velocities of droplet and squirmer, as well as the conditions for a stable comoving state are worked out analytically for the axisymmetric configuration with a general displacement of the squirmer from the center of the droplet

Graphic abstract
The radiation instability in modified gravity
Authors: Cotsakis Spiros , Trachilis Dimitrios
Published: February 2021

We study the problem of the instability of inhomogeneous radiation universes in quadratic Lagrangian theories of gravity written as a system of evolution equations with constraints. We construct formal series expansions and show that the resulting solutions have a smaller number of arbitrary functions than that required in a general solution. These results continue to hold for more general polynomial extensions of general relativity.
Enhancing the Conductivity of the Nanostructured ZnO Thin Film by Vacuum Annealing
Authors: Ahmadi Monelee , Khorramshahi Vahid
Published: February 2021

ZnO thin films were successfully synthesized using a facile chemical route and were characterized employing X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and photoluminescence (PL) analysis. The obtained precursor was spin-coated on Si(100)/SiO2 wafers, then the substrates were divided into two groups for the thermal annealing at ambient and vacuum conditions. Morphological characterization showed the formation of nanoflowers and porous structures at different annealing conditions. The effect of vacuum annealing on the current-voltage characterization of ZnO thin film has been presented to inspect the role of annealing condition in device fabrication. The electrical properties of the ZnO thin films were performed in the temperature range of 75–[Formula: see text]C. At [Formula: see text]C, the ambient annealed sample presents the current value of 10[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]A for 5[Formula: see text]V, and the vacuum annealed sample reaches the maximum current of 3.1[Formula: see text]mA for the same operating voltage. The presence of oxygen vacancies notably affects the electrical properties of ZnO thin films.
Nanoparticle Beads of Chitosan-Ethylene Glycol Diglycidyl Ether/Fe for the Removal of Aldrin
Authors: Rosales G. García , Ávila-Pérez P. , Reza-García J.O. , Cabral-Prieto A. , Pérez-Gómez E.O.
Published: February 2021

This article reports on the preparation of iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) supported in chitosan beads (Chi-EDGE-Fe) for removing aldrin from aqueous solutions. The FeNPs and Chi-EDGE-Fe beads were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and the Mössbauer spectroscopy (MS) techniques. TEM, XRD, and MS showed that the FeNPs had core-shell structures consisting of a core of either Fe0 or Fe2B and a shell of magnetite. Furthermore, SEM images showed that Chi-EDGE-Fe beads were spherical with irregular surfaces and certain degrees of roughness and porosity, whilst the sorbent mean pore size was 204 nm, and the occluded iron nanoparticles in the chitosan material had diameters of 70 nm and formed agglomerates. The sorbent beads consisted of carbon, oxygen, chlorine, aluminum, silicon, and iron according to the SEM-EDS analysis. Functional groups such as O-H, C-H, -CH2, N-H, C-O, C-OH, and Fe-OH were detected in the FTIR spectra. In addition, a characteristic band appeared at about 1700 cm−1 after the sorption process involving aldrin. MS also showed that the iron nanoparticles in the beads probably oxidized into NPs of α-Fe2O3 as a result of the supporting process. The isotherm of the aldrin removal followed the Langmuir–Freundlich model and presented a maximum adsorption capacity of 74.84 mg/g, demonstrating that chitosan-Fe beads are promising sorbents for the removal of toxic pollutants in aqueous solutions.
State of Charge Estimation of Composite Energy Storage Systems with Supercapacitors and Lithium Batteries
Authors: Wang Kai , Liu Chunli , Sun Jianrui , Zhao Kun , Wang Licheng , Song Jinyan , Duan Chongxiong , Li Liwei
Published: February 2021

This paper studies the state of charge (SOC) estimation of supercapacitors and lithium batteries in the hybrid energy storage system of electric vehicles. According to the energy storage principle of the electric vehicle composite energy storage system, the circuit models of supercapacitors and lithium batteries were established, respectively, and the model parameters were identified online using the recursive least square (RLS) method and Kalman filtering (KF) algorithm. Then, the online estimation of SOC was completed based on the Kalman filtering algorithm and unscented Kalman filtering algorithm. Finally, the experimental platform for SOC estimation was built and Matlab was used for calculation and analysis. The experimental results showed that the SOC estimation results reached a high accuracy, and the variation range of estimation error was [−0.94%, 0.34%]. For lithium batteries, the recursive least square method is combined with the 2RC model to obtain the optimal result, and the estimation error is within the range of [−1.16%, 0.85%] in the case of comprehensive weighing accuracy and calculation amount. Moreover, the system has excellent robustness and high reliability.
Management Practices, Farmers’ Knowledge of Diseased Fish, and Their Occurrence in Fish Farms in Nyeri County, Kenya
Authors: Mulei Isaac R. , Mbuthia Paul G. , Waruiru Robert M. , Nyaga Phillip N. , Mutoloki Stephen , Evensen Øystein
Published: February 2021

In this study, fish farmers’ management practices, occurrence, and knowledge of fish diseases in Nyeri County, Kenya, were evaluated. Fish farming management practices for small-scale farmers in Kenya have numerous challenges which have led to disease occurrence and reduced production. Moreover, the impact and association of these challenges to farmers’ knowledge of fish diseases and their burden has not been fully studied. A semistructured questionnaire was used to capture farmers’ biodata, fish species farmed, and farmers’ management practices such as handling of nets, pond fertilization, and disposal of fish waste. Farmers’ knowledge of fish diseases was based on their ability to identify independent and dependent variable indicators. Independent variables included clinical signs, decreased feeding, bulging eyes, floating on water, abdominal swelling, bulging eyes, abnormal skin color, reduced growth, and abnormal swimming with fish death as were the dependent variable. A total of 208 farmers were interviewed and included those of tilapia (134), mixed tilapia and catfish (40), catfish (22), rainbow trout, and five dams under cooperative management. Tilapia was the most kept fish species (66.8%) followed by polyculture of tilapia and catfish (20%) and rainbow trout (2%). Most respondents were male (78.5%) over 51 years of age (50%). Fifty percent of the respondents had secondary school education. There was a significant association between deaths and sharing of nets in Kieni East subcounty (

p
=
0.0049

, chi-square), while on-farm fish waste disposing appeared to cause higher deaths compared to burning of the waste although not statistically significant (

p
=
0.13

). Few respondents observed decreased feed uptake (<20%) and poor growth. Fifty-seven percent of farmers reported mortalities. Fish poor growth, floating in water, and management practices in subcounties had significant effect on fish deaths. The farmers had knowledge of signs of diseased fish, but there was paucity of knowing the specific causes of disease. Farmers need to be empowered on best aquaculture husbandry to avoid disease transmission and specific fish disease signs to enhance proper reporting of disease for subsequent mitigation measures.
Neutrophil Cytosolic Factor-1 Genotyping in Acne Vulgaris
Authors: Bakry Ola , Shoeib Mohamed , Soliman Shimaa , Kamal Lamiaa
Published: February 2021

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a very common inflammatory dermatosis. It has a complex pathogenesis in which oxidative stress plays an important role. Neutrophil cytosolic factor (NCF)-1 gene encodes for NCF1 protein which shares in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Copy number variation (CNV) is a type of genetic variance in which gene copies are duplicated or deleted. The current work aimed to detect the association between NCF1 CNV and NCF-1 genotypes and AV to explore their possible role in increased disease risk or influencing its clinical presentation. Twenty-five cases with AV and 25 age- and gender-matched healthy volunteers were selected. NCF1 CNV and genotypes were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. NCF1 copy number was significantly increased in patients compared to the control group (p = 0.02). Higher copy number increased the risk of occurrence of AV by about 4-fold. The NCF1 genotype was more prevalent in patients (72%) compared to NCF1B (24%) and NCF1C (4%) variants, while NCF1B and NCF1C variants (68%) were more prevalent in the control group. The NCF1B genotype decreased the risk of occurrence of AV by 0.2-fold. NCF1 was significantly associated with cases more than controls (p = 0.005). It increased the risk of occurrence of acne by 5.4-fold. There was significant association between NCF1 copy number and disease duration where higher number was associated with long disease duration (p = 0.03). Higher copy number was also associated with the NCF1 genotype (p = 0.01). This study suggests that increased copy number of NCF1 gene may be a predisposing factor for AV development. However, the presence of NCF1B and NCF1C variants lowers ROS production and subsequently decreases the risk of development of AV.
Machiavellian Masculinities: Historicizing and Contextualizing the “Civilizing Process” in Ancient Egypt
Authors: Morris Ellen
Published: February 2021

To judge from wisdom literature and artistic production, the ideal man in pharaonic Egypt was as polite and even-tempered as he was well groomed. This article examines the evidence for warrior burials from periods when the state was decentralized or relatively weak and argues that conceptions of manhood in fact oscillated between an irenic ideal and a more violent counterpart. Drawing upon comparative case studies and advice given by Niccolò Machiavelli to his prince, I argue that hegemonic masculinity in Egypt did not simply reflect the character of the times. Rather, rulers actively promoted the type of masculinity that best served their purpose. To an ambitious local ruler engaged in enlarging his core territory, it was beneficial to appeal to and encourage ideals of valor among potential soldiers and supporters. Once peace had been established, however, violent masculinities proved disruptive. Based on internal evidence as well as observations of authoritarian governments that aimed similarly to solidify their power and pacify their realms, I suggest that pharaohs and their advisors likely employed five specific strategies to neutralize potential competitors and transform an honor-bound warrior aristocracy into courtiers and bureaucrats.
Eastern Africa and the Early Indian Ocean: Understanding Mobility in a Globalising World
Authors: Horton Mark , Boivin Nicole , Crowther Alison
Published: February 2021

This paper situates Eastern Africa in the early maritime trade of the Indian Ocean, reviewing evidence for connections from Egypt and Red Sea, the Gulf, and Southeast Asia from prehistory to the Islamic Period. The region played a pivotal role in developing global networks, but we argue that it has become the “forgotten south” in an era of emerging empires. One reason for this is a lack of understanding of maritime mobility around the rim of the Indian Ocean, often undertaken by small scale or specialist groups, including sea nomads. These groups are characterised as marginalised and victimised during globalisation, yet dualising into categories—such as “exploiter” and “exploiting”—oversimplifies what was almost certainly in reality a complex array of roles and activities, both in the context of East Africa and elsewhere around the Indian Ocean. Through modern scientific-based excavation and analysis, we can now begin to more fully understand these interactions.
The Interrelation between Public Participation and Access to Justice in the eia Context in the Face of the Increasing Use of Digital Technologies: Comment on the cjeu Judgment in the A.Flausch et al Case (C-280/18)
Authors: Karageorgou Vasiliki (Vicky)
Published: February 2021

The article analyzes the cjeu Judgment in the A. Flausch et al case, which concerns the compatibility of the Greek procedural rules relating to specific aspects of the public participation in the eia context and to a specific aspect of access to justice (time limit) with the respective EU Law provisions in the face of the increasing use of digital technologies in the public participation procedures. This ruling is important, because it sets limits to the procedural autonomy of ms when it comes to the rules that are applied to the eia-related disputes and those that concern the public participation arrangements. It demonstrates, though, the lack of a steady line in the Court’s jurisprudence concerning the standards for assessing the national procedural rules and the role of Article 47 cfr. Moreover, the Court did not lay the ground for an interpretation of the ΕU public participation provisions in a way that an obligation for taking measures could be established, with the aim to ensure equal participation opportunities.
A Lost Opportunity? The Environment and the EU – Mercosur Trade Agreement
Authors: Krämer Ludwig
Published: February 2021

The present contribution analyses and demonstrates where the EU – Mercosur Trade Agreement is incomplete with regard to the protection of the environment and where it could usefully be improved. Most importantly, this contribution shows that the sketchy and not complete examination of environmental provisions, which could usefully be part of the EU – Mercosur Agreement, demonstrates that this Agreement is not aiming at sustainable development with regard to the protection of the environment.
Scribner’s Bookstore
Authors: Emblidge David
Published: February 2021

In 1989, a literary landmark in New York City closed. Scribner’s Bookstore, 597 Fifth Avenue, stood at the epicentre of Manhattan’s retail district. The Scribner’s publishing company was then 153 years old. In the 1920s, driven by genius editor Max Perkins, Scribner’s published Fitzgerald, Hemingway, and Wolfe. Scribner’s Magazine was The New Yorker of its day. The bookshop and publisher occupied a 10-storey Beaux-Arts building, designed by Ernest Flagg, which eventually won protection from the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. Medallions honoured printers Benjamin Franklin, William Caxton, Johann Gutenberg, and Aldus Manutius. The ‘Byzantine cathedral of books’ offered deeply informed personal service. But the paperback revolution gained momentum, bookshop chains like Barnes & Noble and Brentano’s adopted extreme discounting, and the no-discounting Scribner’s business model became unsustainable. Real estate developers swooped in. The bookshop’s ignominious end came when Italian clothier Benetton took over its space.
The Impact of the Stratospheric Polar Vortex Shift on the Arctic Oscillation
Authors: Lu Yongjia , Tian Wenshou , Zhang Jiankai , Huang Jinlong , Zhang Ruhua , Wang Tao , Xu Mian
Published: February 2021

Using the ERA-Interim reanalysis dataset for the time period 1979–2016, we analyzed the influence of the stratospheric polar vortex shift on the Arctic Oscillation (AO) in winter (December–March). The results show that a shift in the stratospheric polar vortex toward the Eurasian continent is favorable for the occurrence of the negative phase of the AO. The duration of the AO events accompanied by the stratospheric polar vortex shift toward the Eurasian continent (AO-shift events) is longer than that of the remaining negative AO events (AO-noshift events), and the intensity of AO-shift events is greater than that of AO-noshift events from day 4 to day 15 of the life cycle of the events. The enhancement in the AO intensity during AO-shift events is likely due to downward extension of the stratospheric northern annular mode (NAM) signals and more poleward-propagating planetary waves in the troposphere and lower stratosphere and their convergence in the mid-high latitudes. Furthermore, the polar vortex shift can lead to changes in the intensity of the three action centers in the AO spatial pattern at 500 hPa. In general, during AO-shift events, the three action centers are stronger than those during AO-noshift events. There is an overall westward shift of the Arctic action center during AO-shift events, which may be closely related to the changes of Greenland blocking frequency.
The Value of Long-Term Streamflow Forecasts in Adaptive Reservoir Operation: The Case of the High Aswan Dam in the Transboundary Nile River Basin
Authors: Eldardiry Hisham , Hossain Faisal
Published: February 2021

Transboundary river basins are experiencing extensive dam development that challenges future water management, especially for downstream nations. Thus, adapting the operation of existing reservoirs is indispensable to cope with alterations in flow regime. We proposed a Forecast-Based Adaptive Reservoir Operation (FARO) framework to evaluate the use of long-term climate forecasts in improving real-time reservoir operations. The FARO approach was applied to the High Aswan Dam (HAD) in the Nile River basin. Monthly precipitation and temperature forecasts at up to 12 months of lead time are used from a suite of eight North American Multi-Model Ensemble (NMME) models. The value of NMME-based forecasts to reservoir operations was compared with perfect and climatology-based forecasts over an optimization horizon of 10 years from 1993 to 2002. Our results indicated that the forecast horizon for HAD operation ranges between 5 and 12 months lead time at low- and high-demand scenarios, respectively, beyond which the forecast information no longer improves the release decision. The forecast value to HAD operation is more pronounced in the months following the flooding season (October–December). During these months, the skill of streamflow forecasts using NMME forcings outperforms the climatology-based forecasts. When considering the operation of upstream Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), using streamflow forecasts minimally helps to maintain current target objectives of HAD operation and therefore result in higher operation costs as opposed to current conditions without GERD. Our study underlined the importance of deriving a new adaptive operating policy for HAD to improve the value of available forecasts while considering GERD filling and operation phases.
Receipt of and Spending on Cessation Medication Among US Adults With Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance, 2010 and 2017
Authors: Shrestha Sundar S. , Xu Xin , Wang Xu , Babb Stephen D. , Armour Brian S. , King Brian A. , Trivers Katrina F.
Published: February 2021

Objective

Studies examining the use of smoking cessation treatment and related spending among enrollees with employer-sponsored health insurance are dated and limited in scope. We assessed changes in annual receipt of and spending on cessation medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) among tobacco users with employer-sponsored health insurance from 2010 to 2017.

Methods

We analyzed data on 439 865 adult tobacco users in 2010 and 344 567 adult tobacco users in 2017 from the IBM MarketScan Commercial Database. We used a negative binomial regression to estimate changes in receipt of cessation medication (number of fills and refills and days of supply). We used a generalized linear model to estimate spending (total, employers’, and out of pocket). In both models, covariates included year, age, sex, residence, and type of health insurance plan.

Results

From 2010 to 2017, the percentage of adult tobacco users with employer-sponsored health insurance who received any cessation medication increased by 2.4%, from 15.7% to 16.1% ( P < .001). Annual average number of fills and refills per user increased by 15.1%, from 2.5 to 2.9 ( P < .001) and days of supply increased by 26.4%, from 81.9 to 103.5 ( P < .001). The total annual average spending per user increased by 53.6%, from $286.40 to $440.00 ( P < .001). Annual average out-of-pocket spending per user decreased by 70.9%, from $70.80 to $20.60 ( P < .001).

Conclusions

Use of smoking cessation medications is low among smokers covered by employer-sponsored health insurance. Opportunities exist to further increase the use of cessation medications by promoting the use of evidence-based cessation treatments and reducing barriers to coverage, including out-of-pocket costs.
Examining Racial Differences in the Informal Discussion of Advance Care Planning Among Older Adults: Application of the Andersen Model of Health Care Utilization
Authors: Suntai Zainab , Noh Hyunjin , Won Cho Rong
Published: February 2021

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to examine racial differences in the discussion of advance care planning among older adults using Andersen’s behavioral model of health care utilization.

Method:

This cross-sectional study utilized data from the 2018 National Health and Aging Trends Study. Weighted multivariable logistic regressions were used to predict advance care planning discussion ( n = 1,326).

Results:

After accounting for predisposing, enabling, and need factors, Black older adults were less likely to discuss end-of-life care (odds ratio [OR] = .527) and medical power of attorney (OR = .531) compared with Whites. Hispanic older adults were also less likely to discuss end-of-life care (OR = .389) and power of attorney (OR = .384) compared with Whites.

Discussion:

These results point to significant racial disparities in advance care planning discussions among older adults and call for future examinations of cultural, historical, and systemic factors that could influence the discussion of advance care planning among this population.
Dental Pathology of the Domestic Pig (Sus Scrofa Domesticus)
Authors: Smith Margaret A. , Rao Sangeeta , Rawlinson Jennifer E.
Published: February 2021

Antemortem domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) dental pathology literature is sparse. This observational descriptive study evaluated 23 client-owned pigs that while sedated/anesthetized for routine annual care had intraoral dental radiographs and an oral examination performed. Age, gender, weight, and breed for each pig were recorded. Oral examination and radiographic findings were reviewed to create a comprehensive list of dental abnormalities identified. Descriptive statistics were performed to summarize the data. The study population included 14 castrated males and 20 Vietnamese pot-bellied mini-pigs. The median age was 3 years (range 2-12 years), and the median weight was 39 kg (range 11-140 kg). The most common finding was missing teeth (21/23 pigs); the first premolar tooth was the most likely to be absent (64/106 missing teeth). Periodontal disease was common (20/23 pigs). Advanced stages primarily affected the first molar teeth frequently in the form of a mucogingival defect. Supernumerary roots were discovered on the maxillary canine teeth in female pigs only (10/25 teeth with supernumerary roots). The most common persistent deciduous tooth was the maxillary second incisor (15/19 persistent deciduous teeth). Non-age or gender related open apices were most likely associated with mandibular first and second incisor teeth (26/96 teeth with open apices). Tooth resorption was also identified (7/23 pigs). The study findings prove that pet pigs commonly have dental pathology; therefore, thorough oral examinations with intraoral radiographs should be included in porcine routine health care regimens.