bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BEBERAPA SKENARIO PENGGUNAAN LAHAN UNTUK PERBAIKAN KONDISI HIDROLOGI DI DAERAH ALIRAN SUNGAI CIDURIAN (Land use scenarios for hydrological conditions improvement in Cidurian Watershed)
Authors:   Program Studi Ilmu Pengelolaan Sumberdaya Alam dan Lingkungan, Sekolah Pascasarjana Institut Pertanian Bogor, Indonesia, Triasary Kartika , Yanuar Jarwadi Purwanto Muhammad , Darma Tarigan Suria ,   Departemen Teknik Sipil dan Lingkungan, Fakultas Teknik Pertanian, Institut Pertanian Bogor, Indonesia,   Departemen Ilmu Tanah dan Sumberdaya Lahan, Fakultas Pertanian, Institut Pertanian Bogor, Indonesia
Published: November 2021

Daerah Aliran Sungai (DAS) Cidurian merupakan salah satu DAS di Pulau Jawa dengan kategori sebagai DAS yang dipulihkan. Kinerja DAS Cidurian secara umum dari hulu sampai dengan hilir termasuk dalam klasifikasi kategori buruk. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk 1) mengkaji karakteristik hidrologi DAS Cidurian menggunakan model hidrologi SWAT; 2) mengkaji kinerja hidrologi berdasarkan skenario simulasi yang disusun; dan 3) menyusun strategi keberhasilan Rehabilitasi Hutan dan Lahan pada DAS Cidurian berdasarkan skenario terbaik. Berbagai skenario penggunaan lahan dan pengelolaannya diujicobakan menggunakan model SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) untuk menduga dampak penerapannya terhadap karakteristik hidrologi pada DAS Cidurian. Skenario yang diaplikasikan adalah sebagai berikut: 1) Implementasi RTRW (Rencana Tata Ruang Wilayah) Provinsi Banten dan Jawa Barat; 2) Implementasi Rehabilitasi Hutan dan Lahan dengan penanaman penanaman vegetative dan; 3). Implementasi Rehabilitasi Hutan dan Lahan penanaman vegetatif dan Konservasi Tanah dan Air secara vegetatif dan sipil teknis. Kalibrasi dan validasi dari model menunjukkan kategori memuaskan dengan nilai NSE (Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency) 0,53 dan 0,50. Semua skenario menunjukkan peningkatan respon hidrologi dibandingkan dengan kondisi eksisting tahun 2020. Ketiganya memberikan respon limpasan permukaaan dan hasil sedimen yang menurun serta aliran lateral dan aliran dasar yang meningkat. Semua skenario ini menurunkan nilai Koefisien Aliran Tahunan (KAT) dan Koefisien Regim Aliran (KRA). Skenario penerapan kombinasi Rehabilitasi Hutan dan Lahan penanaman vegetatif dan Konservasi Tanah dan Air menjadi skenario terbaik dengan nilai KAT 0,27 (kategori rendah) dan KRA 22,40 (kategori rendah).
Comparison of outcomes between immediate implant-based and autologous reconstruction: 15-year, single-center experience in a propensity score-matched Chinese cohort
Authors: He Shanshan , Ding Bowen , Li Gang , Huang Yubei , Han Chunyong , Sun Jingyan , Huang Qingfeng , Liu Jing , Yin Zhuming , Wang Shu , Yin Jian
Published: November 2021

Objective: The number of immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) procedures has been increasing in China. This study aimed to investigate the oncological safety of IBR, and to compare the survival and surgical outcomes between implant-based and autologous reconstruction. Methods: Data from patients diagnosed with invasive breast cancer who underwent immediate total breast reconstruction between 2001 and 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Long-term breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS), disease-free survival (DFS), and locoregional recurrence-free survival (LRFS) were evaluated. Patient satisfaction with the breast was compared between the implant-based and autologous groups. BCSS, DFS, and LRFS were compared between groups after propensity score matching (PSM). Results: A total of 784 IBR procedures were identified, of which 584 were performed on patients with invasive breast cancer (implant-based, n = 288; autologous, n = 296). With a median follow-up of 71.3 months, the 10-year estimates of BCSS, DFS, and LRFS were 88.9% [95% confidence interval (CI) (85.1%–93.0%)], 79.6% [95% CI (74.7%–84.8%)], and 94.0% [95% CI (90.3%–97.8%)], respectively. A total of 124 patients completed the Breast-Q questionnaire, and no statistically significant differences were noted between groups (P = 0.823). After PSM with 27 variables, no statistically significant differences in BCSS, DFS, and LRFS were found between the implant-based (n = 177) and autologous (n = 177) groups. Further stratification according to staging, histological grade, lymph node status, and lymph-venous invasion status revealed no significant survival differences between groups. Conclusions: Both immediate implant-based and autologous reconstruction were reasonable choices with similar long-term oncological outcomes and patient-reported satisfaction among patients with invasive breast cancer in China.
Exponentials and Logarithms Properties in an Extended Complex Number Field
Authors: Tischhauser Daniel
Published: November 2021

It is well established the complex exponential and logarithm are multivalued functions, both failing to maintain most identities originally valid over the positive integers domain. Moreover the general case of complex logarithm, with a complex base, is hardly mentionned in mathematic litterature. We study the exponentiation and logarithm as binary operations where all operands are complex. In a redefined complex number system using an extension of the C field, hereafter named E, we prove both operations always produce single value results and maintain the validity of identities such as logu (w v) = logu (w) + logu (v) where u, v, w in E. There is a cost as some algebraic properties of the addition and subtraction will be diminished, though remaining valid to a certain extent. In order to handle formulas in a C and E dual number system, we introduce the notion of set precision and set truncation. We show complex numbers as defined in C are insufficiently precise to grasp all subtleties of some complex operations, as a result multivaluation, identity failures and, in specific cases, wrong results are obtained when computing exclusively in C. A geometric representation of the new complex number system is proposed, in which the complex plane appears as an orthogonal projection, and where the complex logarithm and exponentiation can be simply represented. Finally we attempt an algebraic formalization of E.
Some Examples of Nonassociative Coalgebras and Supercoalgebras
Authors: Kozybaev Daniyar , Umirbaev Ualbai , Zhelyabin Viktor
Published: November 2021

Locally finiteness of some varieties of nonassociative coalgebras is studied and the Gelfand-Dorfman construction for Novikov coalgebras and the Kantor construction for Jordan super-coalgebras are given. We give examples of a non-locally finite differential coalgebra, Novikov coalgebra, Lie coalgebra, Jordan super-coalgebra, and right-alternative coalgebra. The dual algebra of each of these examples satisfies very strong additional identities. We also constructed examples of an infinite dimensional simple differential coalgebra, Novikov coalgebra, Lie coalgebra, and Jordan super-coalgebra over a field of characteristic zero.
Stabilization of Keratinocyte Monolayer Integrity in the Presence of Anti-Desmoglein-3 Antibodies through FcRn Blockade with Efgartigimod: Novel Treatment Paradigm for Pemphigus?
Authors: Zakrzewicz Anna , Würth Celina , Beckert Benedikt , Feldhoff Simon , Vanderheyden Katrien , Foss Stian , Andersen Jan Terje , Dehaard Hans , Verheesen Peter , Bobkov Vladimir , Tikkanen Ritva
Published: November 2021

Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune blistering disease of the epidermis, caused by autoantibodies against desmosomal proteins, mainly desmogleins 1 and 3, which induce an impairment of desmosomal adhesion and blister formation. Recent findings have shown that inhibition of immunoglobulin G binding on the neonatal Fc receptor, FcRn, results in reduced autoantibody recycling and shortens their half-life, providing a valid treatment option for PV. We have here analyzed the role of FcRn in human keratinocytes treated with novel, recombinant anti-desmoglein-3 antibodies that induce pathogenic changes in desmosomes, such as loss of monolayer integrity, aberrant desmoglein-3 localization and degradation of desmoglein-3. We show that blocking IgG binding on FcRn by efgartigimod, a recombinant Fc fragment that is undergoing clinical studies for pemphigus, stabilizes the keratinocyte monolayer, whereas the loss of desmoglein-3 is not prevented by efgartigimod. Our data show for the first time that FcRn may play a direct role in the pathogenesis of pemphigus at the level of the autoantibody target cells, the epidermal keratinocytes. Our data also imply that in keratinocytes, FcRn may have functions different from its known function in IgG recycling. Therefore, stabilization of keratinocyte adhesion by FcRn blocking entities may provide a novel treatment paradigm for pemphigus.
Building 2D Model of Compound Eye Vision for Machine Learning
Authors: Sokolinsky Leonid B. , Starkov Artem E.
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a two-dimensional mathematical model of compound eye vision. Such a model is useful for solving navigation issues for autonomous mobile robots on the ground plane. The model is inspired by the insect compound eye that consists of ommatidia, which are tiny independent photoreception units, each of which combines a cornea, lens, and rhabdom. The model describes the planar binocular compound eye vision, focusing on measuring distance and azimuth to a circular feature with an arbitrary size. The model provides a necessary and sufficient condition for the visibility of a circular feature by each ommatidium. On this basis, an algorithm is built for generating a training data set to create two deep neural networks (DNN): the first detects the distance, and the second detects the azimuth to a circular feature. The hyperparameter tuning and the configurations of both networks are described. Experimental results showed that the proposed method could effectively and accurately detect the distance and azimuth to objects.
The Corrosion Resistance and Mechanism of AT13/Fe-based Amorphous Composite Coatings
Authors: Chu Zhenhua , Teng Shikun , Zhou Yuyun , Zheng Xingwei , Xu Jingxiang , Wang Fang , Zhang Baosen
Published: November 2021

In the present study, the corrosion resistance of amorphous coating and composite coatings in 3.5 wt.% NaCl, 0.5 M H2SO4 and 10 wt.% NaOH solution were studied. The composite coatings exhibit superior corrosion resistance. When the content of AT13 （Al2O3–13 wt.% TiO2）was 15 wt.%, the composite coating has the lowest corrosion current density (1.75×10-6 A cm-2), which is 5.14×10-5 A cm-2 for Fe-based metallic glassy coating, and the highest corrosion potential (-411 mV), which is -580 mV for Fe-based metallic glassy coating. The breakdown potential of the passivation film in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution was much higher than that of 316L.The long-time immersion corrosion tests carried out on different coatings showed that the corrosion protection effect of coating was enhanced with the increase of the amount of AT13 added.
Unlocking the Complete Chloroplast Genome of a Native Tree Species from the Amazon Basin, Capirona (Calycophyllum spruceanum Benth., Rubiaceae), and Its Comparative Analysis with Other Ixoroideae Species
Authors: Saldaña Carla L. , Rodriguez-Grados Pedro , Chávez-Galarza Julio C. , Feijoo Shefferson , Guerrero Abad Juan Carlos , Vásquez Héctor V. , Maicelo Jorge L. , Jhoncon Jorge H. , Arbizu Carlos I.
Published: November 2021

Capirona (Calycophyllum spruceanum Benth.) belongs to subfamily Ixoroideae, one of de major lineages in the Rubiaceae family, and is an important timber tree, with origin in the Amazon Basin and has widespread distribution in Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. In this study, we obtained the first complete chloroplast (cp) genome of capirona from department of Madre de Dios located in the Peruvian Amazon. High-quality genomic DNA was used to construct librar-ies. Pair-end clean reads were obtained by PE 150 library and the Illumina HiSeq 2500 platform. The complete cp genome of C. spruceanum has a 154,480 bp in length with typical quadripartite structure, containing a large single copy (LSC) region (84,813 bp) and a small single-copy (SSC) region (18,101 bp), separated by two inverted repeat (IR) regions (25,783 bp). The annotation of C. spruceanum cp genome predicted 87 protein-coding genes (CDS), 8 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes and 01 pseudogene. A total of 41 simple sequence repeats (SSR) of this cp genome were divided into mononucleotides (29), dinucleotides (5), trinucleotides (3), and tetranucleotide (4). Most of these repeats were distributed in the noncoding regions. Whole chloroplast genome comparison with the other six Ixoroideae species revealed that the small single copy and large single copy regions showed more divergence than invert regions. Finally, phylogenetic analysis resolved that C. spruceanum is a sister species to Emmenopterys henryi, and confirms its position within the subfamily Ixoroideae. This study reports for the first time the genome organization, gene content, and structural features of the chloroplast genome of C. spruceanum, providing valuable information for genetic and evolutionary studies in the genus Calycophyllum and beyond.
Gradual Strengthening of Existing Masonry Houses with Ferrocement Bandaging
Authors: Ismail Febrin Anas , Boen Teddy , Thamrin Rendy
Published: November 2021

Approximately 85 million people's houses are scattered all over Indonesia, and almost all are in strong earthquake areas. In every earthquake, the houses are generally damaged or collapsed. Therefore, those houses must be strengthened to make them earthquake resistant. This paper discusses a gradual strengthening of existing houses using ferrocement bandaging. The gradual strengthening is introduced due to limited funding of the people. It also serves as an educational tool to educate people to be self-sufficient in building their earthquake-resistant houses. The first step, maybe the sleeping room shall be strengthened so that if there is an earthquake during night-time, people will be safe, and if there is an earthquake during the daytime, people can immediately run to that particular room. A global analysis is made of a sample house shaken by Palu, Central Sulawesi earthquake 2018, and West Sumatra earthquake 2009, with one room strengthened to show that the strengthened room can survive the earthquakes. Then the analysis is continued gradually to the other rooms until the masonry house is fully strengthened by ferrocement bandaging. The results show that the masonry house strengthened by ferrocement layers is earthquake resistant.
Cyclic Voltammogram Analysis of the Environmental Aspects of the Use of Ferrocenyl Carbinols
Authors: alkhawaldeh ahmad
Published: November 2021

Ferrocene and its derivatives have ecologically effective antidetane properties. In this regard, ferrocene reacts with cyclic ketones and ferrosenylcarbinols are synthesized. It should be noted that ferrocene enters into electrophilic reactions and the process takes place in an acidic environment. In addition, the yield of the new product was small compared to the reactions of ferrocene with non-cyclic ketones. This is due to the spatial structures of molecules. The elemental analysis of obtained compounds was carried out; the structures were researched by cyclic voltammograms and Chronoamperometric.
Intra Articular Ozone Modulates Inflammation and Has Anabolic Effect on Knee Osteoarthritis: IL-6 and IGF-1 as Pro-Inflammatory and Anabolic Biomarkers
Authors: Fernández-Cuadros Marcos E. , Pérez-Moro Olga S. , Albaladejo-Florín María J , Algarra-López Rubén , Tobar-Izquierdo María M. , Magaña-Sánchez Amelia , Jiménez-Cuevas Patricia , Rodríguez-de-Cía Javier
Published: November 2021

Objectives: 1) to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory and anabolic effect of Ozone by determining in serum samples the biochemical levels of IL-6 and IGF-1 in knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients in a real world in Rehabilitation Setting; 2) to evaluate clinical effectiveness by Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and WOMAC scale, and biochemical effect by C-reactive protein (CRP), uric acid and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Material and methods: 65 patients with knee OA Kellgren Lawrence (KL) grade 2 or more were analyzed in a retrospective observational study. The study run from January 2018 to September 2021. Inclusion criteria: a) patients 18 years or older; b) with knee OA KL 2º or more; c) biochemical analysis before-and-after treatment; d) pain more than 3 on VAS. Exclusion Criteria: a) previous knee surgery; b) favism; c) pregnancy; d) any other disease that originates lack of collaboration for infiltration. Primary Outcome variables: a) IL-6; b) IGF-1 in diabetes mellitus (DM)/obese and non-DM/non-obese patients; both before-and-after Ozone treatment. Secondary Outcome variables: a) CRP, b) ESR, c) uric acid, d) VAS pain, e) WOMAC pain, function and stiffness. Ozone protocol consisted of 4 sessions (once a week) of an intra-articular infiltration of 20 mL (20µg/mL concentration) of a gas mixture of Oxygen-Ozone 95-5% (produced by Ozone generator Ozonosan-α Plus ®). For biochemical evaluation, SNIBE MAGLUMI ™ IL-6 (CLIA) and SNIBE MAGLUMI ™ IGF-1 (CLIA) kits were used. CRP and uric acid were analyzed by Abbott Alinity c kit; and ESR was evaluated by DIESSE VES MATIC CUBE 30. Results: There is a linear correlation between age and OA severity. IL-6 decreased both in DM and non-DM patients and in all OA KL grades (from 2.7 to 1.59 pg/mL). IGF-1 decreased in total group (OA + DM + obesity) from 112.09 to 107.19 ng/mL. When only knee OA patients were analyzed, Ozone improved IGF-1 levels (from 100.17 to 102.03 ng/mL). Ozone decreased CRP, ESR, uric acid, and improved VAS pain, WOMAC pain, function and stiffness (p<0.05). Conclusions: Ozone is a valid option for the management of knee osteoarthritis in real world Rehabilitation Setting, because of its anti-inflammatory, metabolic and anabolic properties. Ozone downregulates pro-inflammatory IL-6 cytokine. Ozone has a metabolic/hypoglycemic effect on obese/diabetic knee osteoarthritis patients by reducing IGF-1. Ozone has an anabolic effect on non-diabetic/non-obese patients by improving IGF-1. Ozone reduces other biomarkers of inflammation (CRP, ESR and uric acid) and improves, pain, function and quality of life.
Radioactive Contamination Countermeasures, Food Inspection Systems, and the Issue of Reputational Damage in the Early Stages of the Nuclear Disaster in Fukushima Prefecture
Authors: Koyama Ryota , McMichael William D. Y. ,   Faculty of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Fukushima University 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1296, Japan,   Fukushima University International Center, Fukushima University, Fukushima, Japan
Published: November 2021

This paper overviews the achievements and challenges of radioactive contamination countermeasures, food inspection systems, and reputational damage to agricultural products in Fukushima Prefecture during the early stages of the Great East Japan Earthquake and nuclear disaster. It outlines the effectiveness of early countermeasures such as absorption control measures and soil decontamination, and observes how efforts aimed at revitalizing afflicted areas were initiated and advanced primarily through the leadership of residents and agricultural producers. Furthermore, it examines food inspection systems such as the “all-bag-all-volume” testing system for rice that was implemented in Fukushima, and suggests that a failure to extend such countermeasures to outside of Fukushima Prefecture was a contributing factor to the ongoing issue of reputational damage and consumer reluctance to purchase products from the area. Lastly, the paper categorizes early consumer trends in four groups based on differing perceptions of risk and safety, and concludes that dealing with reputational damage should entail creating maps of radioactive material distribution, and also building a rational inspection system that allows consumers to objectively identify the safety of agricultural products.
Data mining and socio-spatial patterns of COVID-19: geo-prevention keys for tackling the pandemic
Authors: De Cos Guerra Olga , Castillo Salcines Valentín , Cantarero Prieto David
Published: December 2021

A geographic perspective is essential in tackling COVID-19. This research study is framed in the collaboration project set up by the University of Cantabria, the Valdecilla Hospital Research Institute (IDIVAL) and the Regional Government of Cantabria. The case study is the Santander functional urban area (FUA), which is considered from a multi-scale perspective. The main source is the daily records of micro-data on COVID-19 cases and the methodology is based on ESRI geo-technologies, and more specifically on a tool called SITAR (a Spanish acronym which stands for Fast-Action Territorial Information System). The main goal is to analyse and contribute to knowledge of the spatial patterns of COVID-19 at neighbourhood level from a space-time perspective. To that end the research is based on data mining methods (3D bins and emerging hot-spots) and exploratory geo-statistical analysis (Global Moran’s Index, Nearest Neighbourhood and Ordinary Least Square analyses, among others). The study identifies space-time patterns that show significant hot-spots and demonstrates a high presence of the virus at building level in neighbourhoods where residential and economic uses are mixed. Knowing the spatial behaviour of the virus is strategically important for proposing geo-prevention keys, reducing spread and balancing trade-offs between potential health gains and economic burdens resulting from interventions to deal with the pandemic.
Social Network Characteristics and Smoking Index Among Smoking Cessation Outpatients in Kunming’s Grade-A Tertiary Hospitals in China: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
Authors: Zeng Rui , Ai Li , Yuan Yang , Cao Yu , Chen Ke-Li , Li Ran , He Xiao-Jie , Hai Bing
Published: November 2021

IntroductionThe success rate of smoking cessation outpatients remains modest. Previous studies have highlighted the importance of social networks for quitting smoking, yet there is a substantial lack of studies examining participants in outpatient smoking cessation programs, especially regarding their smoking index.AimWe aimed to identify the associations between the social network characteristics of smoking cessation outpatients and their smoking indexes. The association was analyzed with participants in Grade-A Tertiary Hospitals in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province in China.MethodsA multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted in Kunming in six randomly sampled Grade-A tertiary hospitals. Participants included 351 smoking cessation outpatients who provided data on cigarette smoking and social networks. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the association between social network characteristics and smoking index across outpatients. Strong associations were identified using adjusted odds ratios and a 95% confidence interval.ResultsLarge network size (AOR=1.79, 95%CI=0.99, 3.86), having children (AOR = 6.35, 95%CI = 2.26, 19.86), and at least one highly influential person in the network (AOR = 2.74, 95% CI =1.13, 7.01)were all associated with the risk of a high smoking index. However, having drinking friends (AOR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.14, 0.56), non-smoking and non-drinking friends in the network (AOR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.21, 0.88), and a network member who provided health advice (AOR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.11, 1.35) were associated with a lower risk of a high smoking index.The results were sustained even after adjusting for demographic details.ConclusionsThe study findings suggest the importance of social network characteristics for smoking cessation physicians when formulating a personalized smoking cessation plan for outpatients.
Bioinspired Polypyrrole based Fibrillary Artificial Muscle with Actuation and Intrinsic Sensing Capabilities
Authors: Beregoi Mihaela , Beaumont Samuel , Evanghelidis Alexandru , Otero Toribio F. , Enculescu Ionut
Published: November 2021

Artificial muscles comprise a bunch of materials, composites and devices performing a similar behavior to biological muscles, since a mechanical actuation is produced while consuming a certain amount of energy. However, in order to mimic the multiple simultaneous functionalities of the natural muscles, i.e. the proprioception, new devices should be designed. A non-conventional, bioinspired device based on polypyrrole coated electrospun fibrous microstructures, which works simultaneously as artificial muscle and mechanical sensor is reported. A simple fabrication algorithm based on electrospinning, sputtering deposition and electrochemical polymerization produced electroactive aligned ribbon meshes with analogous characteristics as natural muscle fibers. These can simultaneously produce a movement (by applying an electric current/potential) and sense the effort of holding weights (by measuring the potential/current while holding objects up to 24 mg). The amplitude of the movement decreases by increasing the load, a behavior similar with natural muscles. Moreover, when different weights were hanged on the device, it senses the load modification, demonstrating a sensitivity of about 6 mV/mg for oxidation and 3 mV/mg for reduction. These results are important since simultaneous actuation and sensitivity are essential for complex activity. Such devices with multiple functionalities can open new possibilities of applications as smart prosthesis or lifelike robots.
Breastfeeding by Human Milk Significantly Increases the Expression of TLR4, TNF-α, CCL2, and CCL3 in the Prepuce Tissue of Neonates
Authors: Behfar Shadi , Nazari Alireza , Yousefi-Ahmadipour Aliakbar , Pourmasoumi Soheila , Sayadi Ahmadreza , Arababadi Mohammad Kazemi
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Innate immunity significantly participates in the tissue repair process. It has been documented that breastfeeding may alter immune responses. Thus, this project was designed to evaluate the effects of breastfeeding on the levels of TLR1-4, TNF-α, TGF-β, CCL2, and CCL3 in the prepuce tissue of neonates.Material and methods: This project was performed on the 90 samples (45 cases with breastfeeding and 45 cases without breastfeeding) of prepuce tissue of neonates. The tissues were homogenized and mRNA levels of TLR1-4 and protein levels of TNF-α, TGF-β, CCL2, and CCL3 were evaluated by Real-Time PCR and ELISA techniques, respectively.Results: Protein levels of TNF-α, CCL2, and CCL3 and mRNA levels of TLR4 were significantly decreased in the cases without breastfeeding when compared to the neonates with breastfeeding. There was a significant negative correlation between duration of pregnancy and mRNA levels of TLR1 in the neonates without breastfeeding.Conclusion: Due to the results, breastfeeding can modulate the expression of TLR4 and its related cytokines/chemokines to improve its wound healing and fight against pathogens.
Goal Attainment Scaling as an Outcome Measure for Randomised Controlled Trials: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Logan Benignus , Jegatheesan Dev K , Viecelli Andrea K , Pascoe Elaine , Hubbard Ruth E
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND: Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) is an individualised outcome measure which can be used in research settings to assess achievement of participant-important priorities and goals. METHODS: A systematic scoping review was completed with the objective of: (1) Identifying the healthcare settings in which GAS has been used as an outcome measure. (2) Describing how GAS has been implemented by researchers in those trials. PubMed, CENTRAL, EMBASE and PsycINFO were searched without limits from their inceptions to 1 September 2021 for randomised controlled trials conducted in healthcare settings where GAS was used as an outcome measure for adults. Two reviewers independently completed both the screening and data extraction, with a third adjudicating conflicts. RESULTS: Of 1,764 articles screened, 37 studies were included. Most trials (86%) were solely undertaken in outpatient settings. They were frequently conducted within the disciplines of rehabilitation (57%), geriatric medicine (24%) and neurology (11%). Sample sizes ranged from 8 to 468, with a mean of 84 participants. GAS was a primary outcome measure in 38% of studies. There were inconsistencies between trials in the use of scales and the calculation of GAS scores. Implementation aspects such as the personnel involved, the training provided, and calibration and review mechanisms, were heterogeneously and scarcely reported. CONCLUSIONS: GAS has been used as an outcome measure across a wide range of disciplines and trial settings. However, there are inconsistencies in how it has been applied and implemented. Developing a cross-disciplinary practical guide to support a degree of standardisation in its implementation may be beneficial in increasing the reliability and comparability of trial results.
Experience with Flaps After Resection of Vulvar Carcinoma: A Case Series
Authors: Zhang Jiaqi , Zhang Jian , Liu Meng , Ge Jun , Xiao Xiaolian , Su Zheng , Chen Chen , Shi Fen , Wang Yongzhen , Liang Weiqiang
Published: December 2021

Background: A defect caused by the radical resection of vulvar cancer requires repair with flap transplantation or vulvoplasty. Therefore, the aim of this study is to present a review of our practice of post-surgical defect reconstruction in cases using different skin flaps.Methods: An observational study was performed among 26 patients with vulvar cancer who were admitted to Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital between February 2015 and February 2020 for surgical and reconstructive procedures. Clinical data of these 26 patients were analyzed. All patients underwent radical resection of vulvar cancer, followed by the repair of post-surgical defects by random flap or axial flap transplantation (even for very complex defects).Results: Among the 26 cases in this study, all patients received 38 soft tissue reconstruction procedures for vulvar perineal defects during the study period. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most commonly diagnosed cancer (80.8%). The average size of the defect was 9.3 ´ 7 cm2. Rhomboid flaps were the most commonly used flaps for performing reconstruction in both the primary and recurrent groups. Poor wound healing was the most commonly discovered complication that occurred in 3 of the 38 flaps (7.9%) used. Previous surgery or radiotherapy did not increase the rate of complications after proper reconstruction was performed.Conclusion: Expanding resection is an effective technique for treating vulvar cancer. Different skin flaps, are effective premium options for post-surgical defect reconstruction, and selective use of skin flaps for treating vulvar defects preserves the vulvar morphology and allows for relatively better functionality.
Decreased Risk of Ovarian Cancer Associated With rs9898876 Sex Hormone-binding Globulin Gene Variant
Authors: Zidi Sabrina , Stayoussef Mouna , Sontini Feryel K , Mezlini Amel , Yacoubi-Loueslati Besma , Almawi Wassim Y
Published: November 2021

Background. Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common gynecologic cancers,with significant morbidity and mortality. The risk of OCis influenced by hormone status, of which sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), whichinfluences the serum availability of steroid sex hormones, is implicated in the pathogenesis and evolution of OC. The aim of this study is to evaluate the involvement of common SHBG gene variants in OC susceptibility and evolution. Materials. A case control study including 71 OC patients and 74 cancer-free controls, who were genotyped for rs9898876, rs13894, rs1799941 and rs6257 SHBG SNP. Genotyping was done by the allelic discrimination method, using VIC- and FAM-labeled primers.Results. The minor allele frequencies of rs9898876, rs13894, rs1799941 and rs6257 SHBG SNP was comparable between OC cases and control women, implying no significant associations of the tested variants and overall OC risk. Taking homozygous wild-type genotype as reference (OR=1.00), heterozygous rs9898876 (G/T), and minor allele-carrying genotypes [G/T+T/T] were associated with reduced risk of OC. Whilers9898876 heterozygosity (G/T) was predictive of OC occurrence, no significant association of the remaining three tested SNPs was noted with altered risk of OC. Irrespective of FIGO staging, the four tested SHBG SNPs were not associated with the clinical progression of OC.Conclusion. In conclusion, SHBG rs9898876 is associated with a decreased risk of OC, and thus constitutes a potential diagnostic biomarker of OC.
Association Between Social Media Use and the Acceptance of Covid-19 Vaccination Among the General Population in Saudi Arabia – A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Othman Sahar S. , Alsuwaidi Abeer , Aseel Rafal , Alotaibi Reema , Bablgoom Reem , Alsulami Ghadeer , Alharbi Razan , Ghamri Ranya
Published: November 2021

BackgroundThe 2019 Coronavirus Disease Pandemic (COVID-19) is a worldwide global epidemic. Although acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination will be a critical step in combating the pandemic, achieving high uptake will be difficult, and potentially made more difficult by social media misinformation. This study aimed to examine the association between social media use and acceptance of receiving COVID-19 vaccine among the general population in Saudi Arabia.MethodologyA cross-sectional study was conducted from June 17 to June 19, 2021 among 504 participants of the general population in Saudi Arabia. The data were collected using a three-part online questionnaire (sociodemographic characteristics, medical and vaccination history, pattern of social media use). ResultsAmong 504 participants who completed the survey, 477 participants were acceptant of the vaccine and 27 were non-accepting. A total of 335 individuals had already received the vaccine, 142 were willing to receive the vaccine and 27 were unwilling. One hundred and thirty participants denied using social media for COVID-19 news. Four factors were found to be significant in influencing vaccine acceptance in univariate analysis: having a chronic condition, believing that infertility is a side effect of the COVID-19 vaccine, being concerned about a serious side effect from the vaccine and basing the decision to be vaccinated on social media information. Two of these factors fell away on multivariate analysis: basing the decision on social media information and a belief that vaccination causes infertility, suggesting that the associations are dependent on other factors.Conclusion‏In conclusion, there was no significant independent relationship between social media usage and people's willingness to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.
Tracking of Anthropometric Characteristics From Childhood To Adolescence: An 8-Year Follow-Up Findings From The Czech ELSPAC Study
Authors: Zvonar Martin , Štefan Lovro , Kasović Mario , Piler Pavel
Published: November 2021

Background
Although evidence suggests that obesity track well from childhood to adolescence, most of the research has been done in Western and high-income countries. Moreover, most of the studies have tracked body-mass index, as a proxy of nutritional status, while tracking characteristics of circumferences and skinfold thicknesses have been less studies. Therefore, the main purpose of the study was to explore tracking characteristics of complete anthropometric data from childhood to adolescence.
Methods
This sub-study was part of the Czech ELSPAC study. In the present 8-year longitudinal study, we collected information from pediatrician’s medical records at the ages of 8 y (n=888), 11 y (n=1065), 13 y (n=811) and 15 y (n=974), including circumferences (head, chest, waist, hips, and arm), indices (body-mass index, waist-to-hip ratio and waist-to-height ratio) and skinfold thicknesses (biceps, triceps, subscapula, suprailiaca, thigh and the sum of 5 skinfolds). Participants were recruited from the two selected regions of the Czech Republic (Brno and Znojmo). Linear generalized estimating equations were conducted to analyze tracking patterns over an 8-year follow-up period for all anthropometric measurements.
Results
Tracking coefficients were moderate to strong, ranging from 0.40 to 0.62 for circumferences, 0.41 to 0.74 for indices and 0.72 to 0.86 for skinfolds. For body-mass index and waist circumference children who were overweight/obese at the age of 8 y were 11.31 (95% CI=8.41 to 15.22, p<0.001) and 10.73 (95% CI=7.93 to 14.52, p<0.001) more likely to be overweight/obese and to have abdominal obesity at the age of 15 y.
Conclusions
Findings show moderate to strong tracking of anthropometric characteristics, i.e. circumferences track moderately well, while strong tracking for indices and skinfold thicknesses is observed. Moreover, strong tracking of general overweight/obesity and abdominal obesity between ages 8 y and 15 y indicates that the detection of these risk factors at the beginning of primary school should be advocated.
An Environmental Information System for the Exploration of Energy Systems
Authors: Rink Karsten , Şen Özgür Ozan , Schwanebeck Malte , Hartmann Tim , Gasanzade Firdovsi , Nordbeck Johannes , Bauer Sebastian , Kolditz Olaf
Published: November 2021

The transition to renewable energy sources requires extensive changes to the energy system infrastructure ranging from individual households to the national scale. During this transition, stakeholders must be able to make informed decisions, researchers need to investigate possible options and analyse scenarios and the public should be informed about developments and options for future infrastructure. The data and parameters required for this are manifold and it is often difficult to create an overview of the current situation for a region of interest. We propose an environmental information system for the visualisation and exploration of large collections of heterogeneous data in the scope of energy system infrastructure and subsurface geological energy storage technologies. Based on the study area of Schleswig-Holstein, a federal state in Germany, we have set up a virtual geographic environment integrating GIS data, topographical models, subsurface information, and simulation results. The resulting application allows users to explore data collection within a unified context in 3D space, interact with datasets, and watch animation of selected simulation scenarios to gain a better understanding of the complex interactions of processes and datasets. Based on the cross-platform game engine Unity, our framework can be used on regular PCs, head-mounted displays, and virtual reality environments and can support domain scientists during assessment and exploration of the data, encourages discussions and is an effective means for outreach activities and presentations for stakeholders or the interested public.
Diagnosis of Key Ecological Problems and Layout of Ecological Restoration Projects- A Case Study of the Aksu River Basin, China
Authors: Xie Ling , Wang Hongwei , Liu Suhong , Li Yudong
Published: November 2021

The sustainable development of ecological environments is the basis of the sustainable development of inland river basins in arid areas with fragile ecological environments. The aim of our study is to diagnose the ecological problems of the Aksu River basin (ARB) and explore the ecological security pattern (ESP) and the layout and implementation path of ecological protection projects for mountains, rivers, forests, farmland, lakes, grasslands and deserts (MRFFLGD) in arid areas under different security levels. The Aksu River, the largest source of the Tarim River, was selected as the case study. The equivalent factor evaluation method (EFEM) was used to estimate the ecological service value (ESV), and the InVEST model was employed to quantify the ecological function indicators. By constructing the richness index, the ESV of the study area was measured spatially, and the ecological problems in the ARB were identified and diagnosed. Using cold/hot spot detection analysis and the minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) model, the ESPs at three security levels were constructed. The layout of ecological protection measures and the implementation path for MRFFLGD were studied. The results showed that the ESV of ARB showed an upwards trend from 1990 to 2018, and the three services of water conservation, waste treatment and soil formation and retention grew fastest. The value of ecosystem services in the study area in 2018 ranged from 5,390 yuan to 131,080 yuan/hm2. The high-value areas were mainly located in the oasis and the northern mountainous area, and the low-value areas were mainly located in the desert area. The ecological source areas of high, medium and low safety levels were 1806.3 km2, 3416.8 km2 and 4804.32 km2, respectively. Based on the spatial distribution of ESV in the ARB and the preliminary diagnosis of the basic ecological problems in the study area, three kinds of ecological protection engineering models, namely, conservation, natural restoration and assisted regeneration, were proposed for the four types of ecological protection zones. To provide a decision-making basis for ecological environmental management and regional sustainable development in the ARB, the optimization patterns of points (6 key ecological protection projects), lines (ecological corridors) and polygons (ecological source areas) were constructed. The results of this study can also serve as a reference for ecological environmental protection in other arid inland river basins.
Concordance of Self- and Informant-Rated Depressive Symptoms in Nursing Home Residents with Dementia: Cross-Sectional Findings
Authors: O'Sullivan Julie Lorraine , Schweighart Roxana , Lech Sonia , Kessler Eva-Marie , Tegeler-Nonnen Christina , Teti Andrea , Nordheim Johanna , Gellert Paul
Published: November 2021

Background: Depression is highly prevalent in nursing home residents living with moderate to severe dementia. However, assessing depressive symptoms in residents with dementia can be challenging and may vary by rater perspective. We aimed to investigate the concordance of, and factors associated with self- and informant-rated depressive symptoms in nursing home residents with dementia.Methods: Cross-sectional data was collected from N=162 nursing home residents with dementia (age: 53-100; 74% women). Self-ratings were assessed with the Geriatric Depression Scale, while the Subscale D of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory was used for informant-ratings. Cohen’s Kappa was calculated to determine concordance of both measures and of each with antidepressant medication. Associations with sociodemographic variables, self- and informant-rated quality of life, dementia stage, neuropsychiatric symptoms, functional status and antidepressant medication were analysed with multivariate linear mixed models.Results: Concordance between self- and informant-rated depressive symptoms was minimal (Cohen’s Kappa=.22, p=.02). Self-reported depression was negatively associated with self-rated quality of life (β=-.37; 95%CI: -.48 to .26, p<.001), informant-rated quality of life (β=-.31; 95%CI: -51 to .10, p=.003) and functional status (β=-.15; 95%CI: -.27 to .03, p=.02), whilst informant-rated depression revealed negative associations with informant-rated quality of life (β=-.32; 95%CI: -.54 to .11, p=.003) and dementia stage (β=-.27; 95%CI: -.50 to .03, p=.028). No concordance was found with antidepressant medication.Conclusions: In line with our expectations, low agreement and unique association patterns were found for both measures. These findings indicate that both instruments address different aspects of depression und underline the need for comprehensive approaches when it comes to detecting signs of clinically relevant depressive symptoms in dementia. Trial registration: The trial was registered with the ISRCTN registry (Trial registration number: ISRCTN98947160)
Applicability of Reddish Orange Light Emitting Samarium (III) Complexes For Biomedical and Multifunctional Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Hooda Pooja , Taxak V. B. , Malik R. K. , Khatri Savita , Kumari Poonam , Khatkar S. P. , Kumar Rajesh
Published: November 2021

Six crimson samarium (III) complexes based on β-ketone carboxylic acid and ancillary ligands were synthesized by adopting grinding technique. All synthesized complexes were investigated via employing elemental analysis, infrared, UV-Vis, NMR, TG/DTG and photoluminescence studies. Optical properties of these photostimulated samarium (III) complexes exhibit reddish-orange luminescence due to 4G5/2→6H7/2 transition at 606 nm of samarium (III) ions. Further, energy band gap, color purity, CIE color coordinates, CCT and quantum yield of all complexes were determined accurately. Replacement of water molecules by ancillary ligands enriched the complexes (S2-S6) with decay time, quantum yield, luminescence, energy band gap and biological properties than parent complex (S1). Interestingly, these efficient properties of complexes may find their applications in optoelectronic and lighting systems. In addition to these the antioxidant and antimicrobial assays were also investigated to explore the application in biological assays.
Evolution of Warm Season Intense Rainfall in Yaan Against a Cold-Anomaly Background
Authors: Hu Xuelin , Yuan Weihua , Yu Rucong
Published: November 2021

This study investigates the rainfall characteristics during intense rainfall over Yaan against a cold-anomaly background, aiming to refine the understanding of different kinds of rainfall events across complex terrain. Hourly rain gauge records, ERA5 reanalysis data and the black body temperature of cloud tops derived from FY-2E were used. The results show that against a cold-anomaly background, the regional rainfall events (RREs) in Yaan exhibit west-to-east propagation, which is different from the north-to-south evolution of warm RREs. The middle and upper troposphere is dominated by a negative geopotential height anomaly corresponding to the cold anomaly. The cyclonic circulation at the higher level associated with the negative geopotential height anomaly bends the high-level jet to the south, forming a divergent zone over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) and guiding mid-level systems to move eastward. The cyclonic circulation at the mid-level produces a wind shear zone over the TP, generating anomalous vorticity that continuously moves eastward and develops to influence the rainfall over Yaan. The cold Yaan RREs are closely related to the TP low-pressure systems (both vortex and shearline). The anomalous vorticity over the TP can influence the local vortex over the eastern periphery of the TP at a distance mainly by the horizontal advection of anomalous vorticity by the mean flow and then enhance the local vortex mainly by anomalous convergence when it moves near Yaan.