bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of emotional distress in palliative care: Edmonton Symptom Assessment System-revised (ESAS-r) vs Distress Thermometer
Authors: Ascencio Huertas Leticia , Allende Pérez Silvia Rosa , Peña Nieves Adriana
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the Distress Thermometer (DT) as a screening tool for emotional distress in oncological palliative care patients and to compare the DT with the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System-revised (ESAS-r) and the gold standard to determine the most appropriate assessment method in palliative psychological care.

Methods

Data were collected from psychological screening tests (ESAS-r and DT), and clinical interviews (gold standard) were conducted by a clinical psychologist specialist in palliative oncology from January 2021 to January 2022 in an oncology palliative care service.

Results

The sample consisted of 356 first-time patients with a diagnosis of advanced cancer in palliative care. The most frequently reported oncological diagnoses were gastrointestinal tract (49.3%) and breast (18.3%). Most patients were female (n = 206; 57.9%), 60.4% were married/with a partner, 55.4% had between 6 and 9 years of schooling, and a median age of 57 (range, 46–65) years. The cutoff of the DT was 5, with a sensitivity of 75.88% and specificity of 54.3%. Emotional problems (sadness and nervousness) had a greater area under the curve (AUC) when measured using the DT than the ESAS-r; however, only in the case of the comparative sadness and discouragement was the difference between the AUC marginally significant.

Significance of results

The use of the DT as a screening tool in oncological palliative care is more effective in the evaluation of psychological needs than the ESAS-r. The DT, in addition to evaluation by an expert psychologist, allows for a more comprehensive identification of signs and symptoms to yield an accurate mental health diagnosis based on the International Classification of Diseases-11th Revision and/or Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition.
Development of nuclear microsatellite markers in Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St. Hil.) from whole-genome sequence data
Authors: Tassano Carolina , Olano Rodrigo A. , Gaiero Paola , Vaio Magdalena , Speranza Pablo R.
Published: October 2023

Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil. (yerba mate) (Aquifoliaceae Bercht. & J. Presl) is a plant species with great economic and cultural importance because its leaves are processed and ground to make infusions like mate or tereré. The species is distributed in a continuous area that includes Southern Brazil and part of Paraguay and Argentina. Uruguay represents the Southern distribution limit of the species, where small populations can be found as part of ravine forests. Although there are previous reports of molecular markers for this and other species in the genus, the available markers were not informative enough to represent the intra- and interpopulation genetic diversity in marginal Uruguayan populations. In this study, we developed highly informative polymorphic microsatellite markers to be used in genetic studies in I. paraguariensis. Markers were identified in contigs from the genome sequence of two individuals and then tested for amplification and polymorphism content in a diverse panel. Markers which passed these filters were tested on populations from Uruguay. They detected higher diversity within populations (in terms of number of alleles and heterozygosity) than previously reported, and levels of heterozygosity similar to those reported for two Brazilian populations. This subset of seven markers were successfully multiplexed, substantially reducing the costs of the analysis. Combined with previously reported nuclear and plastid markers, they can be used to evaluate the genetic diversity of rear-edge populations, identify genotypes for paternity studies and provide relevant information for the conservation and management of germplasm.
The Constructor’s Approach to the Problem
Authors: Marsh H A
Published: October 2023

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN,

Before calling on the first lecturer this afternoon, I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the Helicopter Association, of thanking the President and Council of the Royal Aeronautical Society for their courtesy, in inviting us to share to-day’s proceedings The idea of a full day’s discussion on helicopters originated with the R Ae S, but it can hardly be a coincidence that all those invited to read papers are members—I should say Founder Members—of the Helicopter Association, three of them being Council Members and one an ex-Council Member You are no doubt all aware that the Helicopter Association is of comparatively recent formation and owes a big debt of gratitude to the Royal Aeronautical Society, and other bodies for all the help and guidance they have given in the three years since the Association was incorporated
Some Speculations on the Aeroelastic Problems of Rotary Wing Systems
Authors: Collar A R
Published: October 2023

This afternoon we are about to hear a lecture entitled ‘Some Speculations on the Aeroelastic Problems of Rotary Wing Systems’ This sounds a terrifying title—rather like the sub-titles of Victorian novels—but I suggest the short title, ‘Collar on Blade Flutter’ I have the pleasant task of introducing to you the lecturer In view of Professor COLLAR’S reputation, I am really not sure whether I should introduce the lecturer to the Association or the Association to the lecturer I shall therefore do both without, I hope, imposing upon your patience

Professor COLLAR is easily introduced, because he is one of those people who hold their jobs After taking his degree in Cambridge, he served for 12 years on the staff of the N P L, and for 4 years at the R A E, before being invited to become the Sir George White Professor of Aeronautical Engineering in the University of Bristol
General Principles of the Structural Design of Helicopter Blades
Authors: Owen J B B
Published: October 2023

In designing rotor blades their strength on the ground, their torsional stiffness, their aerodynamic shape and smoothness, etc, have all to be considered, but the primary purpose of rotor blades is to sustain helicopters in controlled flight in the air, and one of the most difficult problems arising is that of assessing the bending stresses to which rotor blades are then subjected The present treatment is, therefore, largely concerned with the estimation of the bending stresses to which rotor blades are subject in flight

The loads tending to bend blades are first taken as being identical with those to which an idealised inflexible blade is subjected These loads are analysed along and perpendicular to the blade length, and equations for the bending equilibrium of flexible blades in the lift and drag planes are developed Difficulties associated with the solution of these equations are overcome by the construction of special solutions, called “Type Solutions,” which satisfy these equations and the end support conditions of the blade These type solutions give a physical picture of the problem and help in the calculation of blade stresses

The differences between the loads on an idealised inflexible blade and flexible blades are discussed In the lift plane it is demonstrated that they are, in general, small, but the possibility of dynamic amplification of higher harmonics in the loading system is brought out, and it is suggested that there may be a need for further work on this aspect of the problem, particularly for high speed helicopters
The Construction of Resin-Bonded Composite Type Rotor Blades, etc
Authors: King E P
Published: October 2023

The advantages of constructing resin-bonded composite metal/wood or metal/fibrous helicopter blades, according to the design and by the “cold” assembly process developed by the author, may be summarised as follows

It is easy to demonstrate from first principles and also from the results of many tests that metal-clad sandwiches, suitable for helicopter rotor blade faces, fuselage shells, and many other aircraft components, may be designed with a bending stiffness from 10 to 40 times the stiffness of a simple sheet of metal of the same specification, size and weight This means, of course, that for an aerodynamically loaded surface, the spacing of ribs, stringers or other substructural members may be up to about three times that for the simple sheet with equal flexural deformation A simple calculation will give the weight-saving which can be effected by the elimination of such supporting members—and this saving would be available for further stiffening of the surface if desired
The Licensing of Helicopter Maintenance Engineers
Authors: Spaull J H
Published: October 2023

I should like to commence by referring to the remarks made during the all-day discussion on Helicopter Maintenance organised by your Association in co-operation with the Society of Licensed Aircraft Engineers, which was held on 21st October, 1950 Reference was then made to the practical difficulties of drafting the requirements for helicopter licensing because of the relatively short duration of the experience which candidates would have had at that time It was said that there was no doubt that the requirements would be amended as soon as it was possible for engineers to have had the minimum experience required by the Board This stage was reached early last year and Section “L” of British Civil Airworthiness Requirements was re-issued on 1st April, 1952
Ram-Jet Motors for Helicopters
Authors: Spalding D. B.
Published: October 2023

This paper examines the problems involved in designing the combustion system of a ram-jet motor for mounting on the tips of helicopter blades. Although sufficient knowledge is not yet available for such a motor to be completely designed on the drawing-board, a principle of construction is suggested which should require the minimum of experiment and development. The principle is illustrated by consideration of a 60 h.p. motor for a tip-speed of 650 ft./sec.
microRNA profilings identify plasma biomarkers and targets associated with pediatric epilepsy patients
Authors: Wang Qi , Shi Xulai , Li Ping-Ping , Gao Li , Zhou Yueyuan , Li Luyao , Ye Hao , Fu Xiaoqin , Li Peijun
Published: October 2023

Background

Although previous studies show that microRNAs (miRNAs) can potentially be used as diagnostic markers for epilepsy, there are very few analyses of pediatric epilepsy patients.

Methods

miRNA profiles using miRNA-seq was performed on plasma samples from 14 pediatric epileptic patients and 14 healthy children. miRNA miR-27a-3p that were significantly changed between two groups were further evaluated. The potential target genes of miR-27a-3p were screened through unbiased mRNA-seq and further validated using Western blot and immunohistochemistry in HEK-293T cells and in the brains of mice with epilepsy induced by lithium chloride–pilocarpine.

Results

We found 82 upregulated and 76 downregulated miRNAs in the plasma from pediatric patients compared with controls (p < 0.01), of which miR-27a-3p exhibited a very low p value (p < 0.0001) and validated in additional plasma samples. Two genes, GOLM1 and LIMK1, whose mRNA levels were decreased (p < 0.001) with the increase of miR-27a-3p were further validated in both HEK-293T cells and in epileptic mice.

Conclusions

MiR-27a-3p exhibits potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic marker for epilepsy. We postulate that additional studies on the downstream targets of miR-27a-3p will unravel its roles in epileptogenesis or disease progression.

Impact

A total of 158 differentially expressed miRNAs were detected in plasma between epileptic and control children.

Plasma miR-27a-3p was one of the miRNAs with a low p value.

GOLM1 and LIMK1 were validated as downstream target genes of miR-27a-3p.

miR-27a-3p has potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic marker for epilepsy.
Mortality risks from a spectrum of causes associated with sand and dust storms in China
Authors: Zhang Can , Yan Meilin , Du Hang , Ban Jie , Chen Chen , Liu Yuanyuan , Li Tiantian
Published: October 2023

Sand and Dust Storms (SDS) pose considerable health risks worldwide. Previous studies only indicated risk of SDS on overall mortality. This nationwide multicenter time-series study aimed to examine SDS-associated mortality risks extensively. We analyzed 1,495,724 deaths and 2024 SDS events from 1 February to 31 May (2013–2018) in 214 Chinese counties. The excess mortality risks associated with SDS were 7.49% (95% CI: 3.12–12.05%), 5.40% (1.25–9.73%), 4.05% (0.41–7.83%), 3.45% (0.34–6.66%), 3.37% (0.28–6.55%), 3.33% (0.07–6.70%), 8.90% (4.96–12.98%), 12.51% (6.31–19.08%), and 11.55% (5.55–17.89%) for ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhagic stroke, hypertensive heart disease, myocardial infarction, acute myocardial infarction, acute ischemic heart disease, respiratory disease, chronic lower respiratory disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), respectively. SDS had significantly added effects on ischemic stroke, chronic lower respiratory disease, and COPD mortality. Our results suggest the need to implement public health policy against SDS.
Chromatinization modulates topoisomerase II processivity
Authors: Lee Jaeyoon , Wu Meiling , Inman James T. , Singh Gundeep , Park Seong ha , Lee Joyce H. , Fulbright Robert M. , Hong Yifeng , Jeong Joshua , Berger James M. , Wang Michelle D.
Published: October 2023

Type IIA topoisomerases are essential DNA processing enzymes that must robustly and reliably relax DNA torsional stress. While cellular processes constantly create varying torsional stress, how this variation impacts type IIA topoisomerase function remains obscure. Using multiple single-molecule approaches, we examined the torsional dependence of eukaryotic topoisomerase II (topo II) activity on naked DNA and chromatin. We observed that topo II is ~50-fold more processive on buckled DNA than previously estimated. We further discovered that topo II relaxes supercoiled DNA prior to plectoneme formation, but with processivity reduced by ~100-fold. This relaxation decreases with diminishing torsion, consistent with topo II capturing transient DNA loops. Topo II retains high processivity on buckled chromatin (~10,000 turns) and becomes highly processive even on chromatin under low torsional stress (~1000 turns), consistent with chromatin’s predisposition to readily form DNA crossings. This work establishes that chromatin is a major stimulant of topo II function.
Aversive stimulus-tuned responses in the CA1 of the dorsal hippocampus
Authors: Barth Albert M. , Jelitai Marta , Vasarhelyi-Nagy Maria Flora , Varga Viktor
Published: October 2023

Throughout life animals inevitably encounter unforeseen threatening events. Activity of principal cells in the hippocampus is tuned for locations and for salient stimuli in the animals’ environment thus forming a map known to be pivotal for guiding behavior. Here, we explored if a code of threatening stimuli exists in the CA1 region of the dorsal hippocampus of mice by recording neuronal response to aversive stimuli delivered at changing locations. We have discovered a rapidly emerging, location independent response to innoxious aversive stimuli composed of the coordinated activation of subgroups of pyramidal cells and connected interneurons. Activated pyramidal cells had higher basal firing rate, more probably participated in ripples, targeted more interneurons than place cells and many of them lacked place fields. We also detected aversive stimulus-coupled assemblies dominated by the activated neurons. Notably, these assemblies could be observed even before the delivery of the first aversive event. Finally, we uncovered the systematic shift of the spatial code from the aversive to, surprisingly, the reward location during the fearful stimulus. Our results uncovered components of the dorsal CA1 circuit possibly key for re-sculpting the spatial map in response to abrupt aversive events.
Realistic prediction and engineering of high-Q modes to implement stable Fano resonances in acoustic devices
Authors: Kronowetter Felix , Maeder Marcus , Chiang Yan Kei , Huang Lujun , Schmid Johannes D. , Oberst Sebastian , Powell David A. , Marburg Steffen
Published: October 2023

Quasi-bound states in the continuum (QBICs) coupling into the propagating spectrum manifest themselves as high-quality factor (Q) modes susceptible to perturbations. This poses a challenge in predicting stable Fano resonances for realistic applications. Besides, where and when the maximum field enhancement occurs in real acoustic devices remains elusive. In this work, we theoretically predict and experimentally demonstrate the existence of a Friedrich-Wintgen BIC in an open acoustic cavity. We provide direct evidence for a QBIC by mapping the pressure field inside the cavity using a Laser Doppler Vibrometer (LDV), which provides the missing field enhancement data. Furthermore, we design a symmetry-reduced BIC and achieve field enhancement by a factor of about three compared to the original cavity. LDV measurements are a promising technique for obtaining high-Q modes’ missing field enhancement data. The presented results facilitate the future applications of BICs in acoustics as high-intensity sound sources, filters, and sensors.
Detection of magnetospheric ion drift patterns at Mars
Authors: Zhang Chi , Nilsson Hans , Ebihara Yusuke , Yamauchi Masatoshi , Persson Moa , Rong Zhaojin , Zhong Jun , Dong Chuanfei , Chen Yuxi , Zhou Xuzhi , Sun Yixin , Harada Yuki , Halekas Jasper , Xu Shaosui , Futaana Yoshifumi , Shi Zhen , Yuan Chongjing , Yun Xiaotong , Fu Song , Gao Jiawei , Holmström Mats , Wei Yong , Barabash Stas
Published: October 2023

Mars lacks a global magnetic field, and instead possesses small-scale crustal magnetic fields, making its magnetic environment fundamentally different from intrinsic magnetospheres like those of Earth or Saturn. Here we report the discovery of magnetospheric ion drift patterns, typical of intrinsic magnetospheres, at Mars using measurements from Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN mission. Specifically, we observe wedge-like dispersion structures of hydrogen ions exhibiting butterfly-shaped distributions (pitch angle peaks at 22.5°−45° and 135°−157.5°) within the Martian crustal fields, a feature previously observed only in planetary-scale intrinsic magnetospheres. These dispersed structures are the results of drift motions that fundamentally resemble those observed in intrinsic magnetospheres. Our findings indicate that the Martian magnetosphere embodies an intermediate case where both the unmagnetized and magnetized ion behaviors could be observed because of the wide range of strengths and spatial scales of the crustal magnetic fields around Mars.
The practice of reaction window in an electrocatalytic on-chip microcell
Authors: Xia Hang , Sang Xiaoru , Shu Zhiwen , Shi Zude , Li Zefen , Guo Shasha , An Xiuyun , Gao Caitian , Liu Fucai , Duan Huigao , Liu Zheng , He Yongmin
Published: October 2023

To enhance the efficiency of catalysis, it is crucial to comprehend the behavior of individual nanowires/nanosheets. A developed on-chip microcell facilitates this study by creating a reaction window that exposes the catalyst region of interest. However, this technology’s potential application is limited due to frequently-observed variations in data between different cells. In this study, we identify a conductance problem in the reaction windows of non-metallic catalysts as the cause of this issue. We investigate this problem using in-situ electronic/electrochemical measurements and atom-thin nanosheets as model catalysts. Our findings show that a full-open window, which exposes the entire catalyst channel, allows for efficient modulation of conductance, which is ten times higher than a half-open window. This often-overlooked factor has the potential to significantly improve the conductivity of non-metallic catalysts during the reaction process. After examining tens of cells, we develop a vertical microcell strategy to eliminate the conductance issue and enhance measurement reproducibility. Our study offers guidelines for conducting reliable microcell measurements on non-metallic single nanowire/nanosheet catalysts.
The role of antipsychotics and other drugs on the development and progression of neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Authors: Kyotani Yoji , Zhao Jing , Nakahira Kiichi , Yoshizumi Masanori
Published: October 2023

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but serious and sometimes fatal complication in patients taking antipsychotic drugs, and its underlying mechanism still remains unclear. The pharmacotherapy for psychotic disorders is complicated and often involves a combination of two or more drugs, including drugs other than antipsychotics. In the present study, we used the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report (JADER) database to broadly investigate the drugs associated with NMS, following their related pathways, as well as the drug-drug interactions (DDIs) in NMS. All analyses were performed using data from the JADER database from April 2004 to May 2022. Single-drug signals were evaluated using the reporting odds ratio (ROR) and proportional reporting ratio (PRR), and drug pathways were investigated using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). DDIs were evaluated using the Ω shrinkage measure and Chi-square statistics models. All drugs associated with 20 or more NMS cases in the JADER database exhibited signals for NMS, including non-antipsychotics. Pathways associated with the drugs included the dopaminergic or serotonergic synapses related to antipsychotics. DDIs leading to NMS were confirmed for several drug combinations exhibiting single-drug signals. This study confirmed the significant association of various drugs, including non-psychotics, with NMS and suggested that various pathways related to these drugs may be involved in the progression of NMS. In addition, several combinations of these drugs were found to interact (DDI), increasing the risk of NMS, which suggests that appropriate caution should be taken when administering these drugs.
Preparation, characterization and in vivo pharmacokinetic study of ginsenoside Rb1-PLGA nanoparticles
Authors: Du Lixin , Lu Huiling , Xiao Yifei , Guo Zhihua , Li Ya
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to construct a Ginsenoside Rb1-PLGA nano drug delivery system, optimize its preparation process, characterize and evaluate the resulting Ginsenoside Rb1-PLGA Nanoparticles (GRb1@PLGA@NPs). GRb1@PLGA@NPs were prepared using the emulsion solvent evaporation method. The optimal preparation process was determined using Plackett–Burman design combined with Box-Behnken experiments. Physical characterization and in vitro release studies were conducted. LC–MS/MS technique was employed to investigate the pharmacokinetic characteristics of GRb1 and GRb1@PLGA@NPs in rat plasma. The optimal preparation process yielded GRb1@PLGA@NPs with a particle size of 120.63 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.172, zeta potential of − 22.67 mV, encapsulation efficiency of 75%, and drug loading of 11%. In vitro release demonstrated sustained drug release. Compared to GRb1, GRb1@PLGA@NPs exhibited a shortened time to peak concentration by approximately 0.72-fold. The area under the plasma concentration–time curve significantly increased to 4.58-fold of GRb1. GRb1@PLGA@NPs formulated using the optimal process exhibited uniform distribution and stable quality, its relative oral bioavailability was significantly improved compared to free GRb1.
Eco-sustainable paper wastewater management by water-resource recovery and concentrate minimization using a membrane oxidation reactor and membrane distillation system
Authors: Dogan Esra Can , Pişkin Elif Durna , Narci Ali Oguzhan , Kiril Mert Berna , Topçu Yakın Sevgi , Demirözlü Tugba Nur , Atasoy Mine Selin , Aydiner Coskun
Published: October 2023

We perform the treatment of paper industry raw wastewater by using Fenton or photo-Fenton reactions with a submerged UF process within a MOR, aiming to meet current discharge standards and to provide water recovery by producing industrial reuse water with MD.
Bidirectional optical response hydrogel with adjustable human comfort temperature for smart windows
Authors: Yu Zhenkun , Ma Yulin , Mao Linhan , Lian Yue , Xiao Yanwen , Chen Zhaoxia , Zhang Yuhong
Published: October 2023

A unique bidirectional optical response hydrogel with adjustable temperature for human comfort, remarkable transparency, and solar modulation is developed to contribute to the fields of anti-counterfeiting, information encryption, and smart windows.
Insight into the quantum anomalous Hall states in two-dimensional kagome Cr3Se4 and Fe3S4 monolayers
Authors: Lian Huijie , Xu Xiaokang , Han Ying , Li Jie , Zhou Wenqi , Yao Xiaojing , Lu Jinlian , Zhang Xiuyun
Published: October 2023

Quantum anomalous Hall states in two-dimensional kagome Cr3Se4 and Fe3S4 monolayers are predicted.
Rational design of ZIF-derived nanocarbon with dual metal active sites via molten salt strategy for advancing oxygen electrocatalysis
Authors: Bhardwaj Sakshi , Boruah Tribani , Dey Ramendra Sundar
Published: October 2023

This work demonstrates a versatile molten-salt-assisted pyrolysis strategy for dual metal (Fe,Co)-doped highly porous graphene nanosheets that shows promising activity with an E1/2 of 0.84 V for ORR, E10 of 1.54 V for OER, and ΔE of 0.70 V.
Engineering the glioblastoma microenvironment with bioactive nanoparticles for effective immunotherapy
Authors: Blanchard Ryan , Adjei Isaac
Published: October 2023

This review highlights recent advances in nanotherapeutics altering the tumor microenvironment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) to overcome immunosuppression.
Understanding the cation exchange affinity in modified-MMT catalysts for the conversion of glucose to lactic acid
Authors: Shikh Zahari S. M. Shahrul Nizan , Che Sam Nur Fatin Izzati , Elzaneen Kholoud M. H. , Ideris Mahfuzah Samirah , Harun Farah Wahida , Azman Hazeeq Hazwan
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the exchange affinity of Fe3+, Cu2+, and Zn2+ cations in sulfuric acid-purified montmorillonite (S-MMT) to enhance Lewis acid sites and subsequently improve the catalytic conversion of glucose to lactic acid.
Journey of micronanoplastics with blood components
Authors: Rajendran Durgalakshmi , Chandrasekaran Natarajan
Published: October 2023

Micronanoplastics (MNPs) interact with blood components, resulting in anemia, cardiovascular diseases, etc. Research gaps include toxic impacts of real-world MNPs, monomers, co-pollutants complex, and so on, emphasizing the need for more research.
Revisiting conventional noncovalent interactions towards a complete understanding: from tetrel to pnicogen, chalcogen, and halogen bond
Authors: Phan Dang Cam-Tu , Tam Nguyen Minh , Huynh Thanh-Nam , Trung Nguyen Tien
Published: October 2023

The conventional noncovalent interactions are revisited and systematically investigated using different analysis approaches to offer a step forward in the complete understanding of their nature and behaviors.
Surface modification of garnet fillers with a polymeric sacrificial agent enables compatible interfaces of composite solid-state electrolytes
Authors: Luo Bin , Wu Jintian , Zhang Ming , Zhang Zhihao , Zhang Xingwei , Fang Zixuan , Xu Ziqiang , Wu Mengqiang
Published: October 2023

The schematic illustration of surface modification of garnet filler LLZTO with a polyacrylic acid sacrificial agent.
A para-azaquinodimethane integrated quinoidal conjugated microporous polymer
Authors: K Aswani Raj , M Rajeswara Rao
Published: October 2023

Quinoidal compounds own unique properties that make them a promising platform for optoelectronic applications.
Emergency and Disaster Preparedness for Individuals Who Use Augmentative and Alternative Communication: A Pilot Study on Supported Planning Using a Toolkit
Authors: Barton-Hulsey Andrea , Boesch Miriam C. , Chung Yoosun , Caswell Tina , Sonntag Amy Miller , Quach Wendy
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

When emergencies or disasters arise, individuals who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) are particularly vulnerable. It is critical that individuals who use AAC are supported to make decisions that impact their own lives and are able to communicate during such a crisis. Preparedness efforts that include a plan around communication needs and supports are necessary for ensuring that individuals who use AAC are able to understand options that ensure personal safety and express their needs during a time of crisis.

Method:

Qualitative methods were used to identify and describe the experiences of two young adults who use AAC and their caregivers when engaging in person-centered planning intervention sessions to complete the activities of the United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (USSAAC) emergency/disaster preparedness toolkit. Pre-intervention interviews and subjective, objective, assessment, and plan (SOAP) notes taken after each intervention session were done to describe their preparedness and experiences completing the toolkit. Themes were identified to describe participant experiences and change in their perceived preparedness.

Results:

Five themes and 18 subthemes emerged from the pre-intervention interviews and the SOAP notes across 14 intervention sessions that captured each participant and their caregiver's awareness of needs, barriers in emergency situations, challenges in completing the toolkit, and actions during person-centered planning with the toolkit (e.g., personalizing communication boards, making a go bag, and scheduling visits with local emergency agencies).

Conclusions:

This study highlights the need for preparedness activities that are person-centered and account for the communication support needs of individuals who use AAC if faced with an emergency/disaster. Outcomes suggest that these methods were feasible and supported positive change in perceived preparedness in the young adults who used AAC and their caregivers.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.24415567
List Equivalency and Critical Differences of a Mandarin Bamford-Kowal-Bench Sentence in Babble Noise Test for Adults and Preschool Children With Normal Hearing
Authors: Xi Xin , Li Jia-Nan , Yuen Kevin C. P. , Chen Ai-Ting , Li Si-Qi , Hong Meng-Di , Wang Qian , Ji Fei , Dillon Harvey , Ching Teresa Y. C.
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine the speech recognition equivalence of Mandarin Bamford-Kowal-Bench (BKB) sentence lists with adults and children with normal hearing.

Method:

A total of 32 lists, each of nine sentences, were compiled from a corpus of BKB-like sentences with paired babble in Mandarin. Interlist equivalence, critical differences, and sensitivity of performance to signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) were examined. Experiment 1 included 64 native Mandarin-speaking adults with normal hearing. Experiment 2 included 54 native Mandarin-speaking children with normal hearing aged 4–6 years.

Results:

Among the 32 sentence lists, 28 lists were confirmed to be equivalent in adults, with a mean SNR required for 50% correct (SNR
50
) of −5.9 ± 0.1 dB, a mean slope of 22.3%/dB ± 1.5%/dB, and a grand 95% critical difference subsequently calculated as 27.2% for score. From the 28 equivalent lists, 27 lists were selected and observed to be equivalent in children, with a mean SNR
50
threshold of −2.0 ± 0.2 dB, a mean slope of 15.8%/dB ± 1.1%/dB, and a grand 95% critical difference of 24.6% for score.

Conclusions:

The Mandarin BKB sentences in babble noise test offers an opportunity for clinicians and researchers to assess speech understanding in adults and preschool children in an efficient manner. For comparisons of performance in different test conditions, 28 equivalent lists are available for adults and 27 equivalent lists for preschool children. The 95% critical difference values can be used for total percentage correct or SNR for 50% performance. Future work will examine the clinical utility for school-age children and children who are deaf and hard of hearing.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.24400066
A Primer on Neurodiversity-Affirming Speech and Language Services for Autistic Individuals
Authors: Gaddy Caroline , Crow Hillary
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this tutorial is to educate speech-language pathologists (SLPs) on the need for and positive outcomes associated with neurodiversity-affirming care. This primer will outline what neurodiversity is, why it is central to the provision of evidence-based practice and culturally responsive care, and introduce the reader to neurodiversity-affirming clinical practices.

Method:

This tutorial is based on a review of literature, including academic research and written works from autistic and disability activists, existence in autistic spaces, conversations within the autistic community, lived experience as autistic individuals, and clinical experience as SLPs.

Discussion:

SLPs specializing in developmental disabilities will provide services for children with a variety of diagnoses and co-occurring conditions. Consequently, SLPs are likely to work with autistic and otherwise neurodivergent individuals. In supporting autistic clients, SLPs may promote communication development, provide and support augmentative and alternative communication, teach executive functioning strategies, educate family members and/or other members of the support team, and more. As such, it is imperative that SLPs have an understanding of the neurodiversity paradigm, how it relates to providing culturally responsive care, and the positive outcomes associated with incorporating it into our practice. This tutorial provides descriptions of neurodiversity-affirming care principles and definitions of related terms through visuals, discussion, and fictitious case scenarios and examples.

Conclusion:

Clinicians may use this primer to integrate neurodiversity-affirming care principles into their practice.
Activated protein C sensitivity ratio in pregnant women at delivery
Authors: Mathonnet Florence , DeMazancourt Philippe , Bastenaire Brigitte , Morot Mireille , Benattar Norbert , BeufÉ Sylvie , Borg Jeanne‐Yvonne , Giudicelli Yves
Published: October 2023

We studied activated protein C sensitivity ratio (APC‐SR), factors V and VIII activity and von Willebrand antigen in control women, women using oral contraceptives, and pregnant women at delivery. The mean APC‐SR of 2.4 in pregnant women was significantly lower than the mean APC‐SR value of 3.5 for both the other groups and 45% of pregnant women had a ratio below the 5th percentile of the control group. None of them carried the R506→Q mutation. This decreased ratio at delivery appeared to be connected, at least in part, with increased VIII activity. Thus, APC‐SR at delivery should not be used to detect APC resistance.
The Subepithelial Formation of Immune Complexes in Membranous Glomerulonephritis may be Harmless and Secondary to Toxic or Allergic Factors
Authors: RAVNSKOV U.
Published: October 2023

Membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) is said to be caused by circulating autoantibodies against antigen(s) located to the epithelial side of the glomerular capillaries. Membranous glomerulonephritis with severe renal damage can be produced experimentally by injections of heterologous antibodies, but this model is obviously of questionable relevance. It can also be produced by immunizing the animal with antigen mixed with Freund’s adjuvant, but this model does not prove that the damage is exerted by antibodies because Freund’s adjuvant is nephrotoxic and is itself able to produce MGN. It has not yet been demonstrated experimentally that autologous antibodies alone can produce more than trace or transient proteinuria; and kidney biopsies in unselected humans have shown that MGN is a frequent finding in individuals with normal urine and normal renal function, indicating that a subepithelial formation of immune complexes is also harmless to humans. Severe glomerulonephritis without immune complex formation can easily be produced experimentally with many nephrotoxic chemicals. It is therefore suggested that the primary event in MGN, and probably other subgroups, is a toxic or allergic tubulointerstitial reaction to chemicals or drugs and that the formation of glomerular immune complexes is a later and secondary phenomenon. In agreement, renal function and the course in MGN and other glomerulonephritides are strongly correlated with the degree of tubulointerstitial damage, but totally unrelated to the degree of glomerular damage. The hypothesis explains why a large number of patients with endstage renal failure owing to glomerulonephritis have been heavily exposed to environmental pollutants.
Mucosal Immunoregulation and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: New Insights from Murine Models of Inflammation
Authors: STROBER W. , FUSS I. J , EHRHARDT R. O , NEURATH M. , BOIRIVAN M. , LÚDVÍKSSON B. R.
Published: October 2023

Membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) is said to be caused by circulating autoantibodies against antigen(s) located to the epithelial side of the glomerular capillaries. Membranous glomerulonephritis with severe renal damage can be produced experimentally by injections of heterologous antibodies, but this model is obviously of questionable relevance. It can also be produced by immunizing the animal with antigen mixed with Freund’s adjuvant, but this model does not prove that the damage is exerted by antibodies because Freund’s adjuvant is nephrotoxic and is itself able to produce MGN. It has not yet been demonstrated experimentally that autologous antibodies alone can produce more than trace or transient proteinuria; and kidney biopsies in unselected humans have shown that MGN is a frequent finding in individuals with normal urine and normal renal function, indicating that a subepithelial formation of immune complexes is also harmless to humans. Severe glomerulonephritis without immune complex formation can easily be produced experimentally with many nephrotoxic chemicals. It is therefore suggested that the primary event in MGN, and probably other subgroups, is a toxic or allergic tubulointerstitial reaction to chemicals or drugs and that the formation of glomerular immune complexes is a later and secondary phenomenon. In agreement, renal function and the course in MGN and other glomerulonephritides are strongly correlated with the degree of tubulointerstitial damage, but totally unrelated to the degree of glomerular damage. The hypothesis explains why a large number of patients with endstage renal failure owing to glomerulonephritis have been heavily exposed to environmental pollutants.
ANALYSIS of the creation of rural ecological architecture from the perspective of landscape aesthetics--the case of Diaojiao Building in Xijiang Qianhu Miaozhai
Authors: Niu Miao , Wang Luyan
Published: October 2023

In the context of rural revitalization, the establishment of eco-architecture plays a crucial role in promoting the sustainable development of rural landscapes. Eco-architecture that encompasses aesthetic features serves as an ideal option for rural development. The Xijiang Qianhu Miaozhai stands as the largest Miao settlement in China. Its Diaojiao Building, situated on the mountain, seamlessly integrates ecological, aesthetic, and ethnic cultural elements. It exemplifies the successful merging of ecological architecture and landscape aesthetics. This paper thoroughly examines the Diaojiao Building from the standpoint of landscape aesthetics and ecological architecture. Extensive exploration is conducted to uncover the aesthetic characteristics and landscape value with this unique architectural style. Through comparisons with other prevalent architectural types, this research identifies the ecological architectural attributes specific to the timber-frame building. Ultimately, the study concludes by offering insights into the methodology of rural ecological architecture, grounded in the perspective of landscape aesthetics.
Assessment of air quality and damage caused after an anthropogenic disaster in the city of Beirut
Authors: Jayalakshmi S. , Jayanthi B. , Ezhilarasi R.
Published: October 2023

Air pollution is an important cause of concern and has a significant impact on health as well as the environment. Air pollutants are released into the atmosphere by various sources, and the concentration in cities is mainly due to anthropogenic sources like emissions from industries, factories, vehicles, fossil fuel combustion, waste production, etc. But certain high episodes of air pollution can be witnessed in cities which can cause serious threats to human beings and the environment. Remote sensing is one of the sustainable measures, which allows the integration and presentation of useful information at various temporal and spatial scales. This tool can be helpful in understanding and managing natural disasters and man-made risks contributing to air pollution. Analyzing the cause of such high pollution episodes can help to take necessary steps to reduce the emissions, and damage or to take precautions to avoid man-made disasters. One such incident of an explosion of ammonium nitrate in a port had a long-lasting impact on the air quality in Beirut where the average concentration of air pollution already exceeds WHO threshold limits. This paper explores the concentration of aerosols and NO2, before and after the incident of an explosion that took place in Beirut. Assessment of the damage near the port caused by the explosion in Beirut was done using a change detection technique for which an algorithm was developed. Due to the non-availability of field data for the study area of Beirut, the algorithm was developed and validated for Chennai city and extended to Beirut. The aerosol and NO2 concentration data were extracted from sentinel-5p/TROPOMOI and validated with ground data through regression analysis. The results obtained from this study can be used as an early warning system and decision support system for mitigating loss due to the explosion.
Experimental Investigation on Geopolymer Concrete:- Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Construction Material
Authors: Rafeek Amina , Kumar S. Sundar , Susan Raj Indu
Published: October 2023

The research for the new environmental friendly construction material that will match the durability of ancient concrete has provoked interest into the study of alkali activated cementitious systems over the last two decades. It results in the development of Geopolymer Concrete. This paper represents the development of geopolymer mixes of various ratios of fly ash and GGBS and their mechanical properties were studied. aa Literature review on mechanical and durability properties of geopolymer concrete also been done. The ratio of sodium hydroxide to sodium silicate is 1:2 which is kept a constant to prepare the mix and alkaline liquid to binder ratio as 0.70, but changing the concentration of sodium hydroxide solution as 6M, 4M and 3M to prepare the mix Id. i.e. F75G25, F50G50 and F25G75, respectively (where F and G are Fly Ash and GGBS and the numerical value indicates the percentage of replacement of fly ash by GGBS) were prepared in AML laboratory, CSIR-SERC, Chennai. Ambient curing of concrete at room temperature was adopted.The compressive strength at age of 3, 7 and 28 days were determined. The strength of geopolymer concrete was increased with increase in percentage of GGBS in a mix. It was observed that the mix Id F25G75 gave maximum compressive strength for concentration of NaOH as 3M . Leaching of GPC reduces with increase in percentage of GGBS in a mix. Thus the geopolymer concrete have a relatively higher strength.
Experimental determination of pesticide processing factor during extraction of maize germ oil
Authors: Carré Patrick , Lacoste Florence , Arnaud Jean-Noël , Leitner Loïc , Roiz Julie
Published: October 2023

As there is a lack of regulations on pesticide levels in crude oils, this study aimed to evaluate transfer factors for extrapolating concentration limits established for maize kernels to the crude oils extracted from their germs. Maize kernels were spiked with 4 organophosphates insecticides (chlorpyriphos, chlorpyriphos-methyl, fenitrothion, pirimiphos-methyl), 2 pyrethroids (cypermethrin and deltamethrin) and a pyrethroid synergist, piperonyl butoxide (PB) targeting a dose of 1 mg/kg grain. The kernels were transformed in a pilot starch-mill to separate the germs (wet-milling) then these germs underwent an oil extraction process in a mini-pilot comprising a thermal conditioning stage, a mechanical extraction followed by a solvent extraction and a desolventization-toasting stage for the meal. Analyses were carried out by gas chromatography coupled to MS/MS detector. The pesticides content was measured on kernels, spiked kernels, germ, crude oil and meal. Surprisingly, a significant difference in behavior was observed between organophosphates and pyrethroids in the transition from grain to germ. For the former, the applied pesticides were recovered at levels between 48% and 81% in the germ, compared to only 9–11% for the latter and 31% for PB. It has been shown by means of acetonitrile washing on spiked seeds that the pyrethroids remained bound to the hydrophobic cuticle of the grains. On the other hand, from the germ to the oil, the initial hypothesis of an almost total transfer of the pesticides in the fat fraction of the material was confirmed. The germ to meal concentration ratios were on average 0.019, 0.065 and 0.109 for organophosphates, PB and pyrethroids respectively. In the same order, the concentration ratios between germ and crude oil were 1.87, 1.98 and 2.17. Grain to final oil transfer factors ranged from 7.4 to 12.7 for organophosphates, 4.8 for PB and 1.4 and 1.7 for cypermethrin and deltamethrin respectively.
A Rare Case of Obstructive Shock due to Cardiac Tamponade in a Term Pregnancy
Authors: Masten Megan , Kaliounji Haya , Chou Josephine , Tumolo Alexis , Hirshberg Jonathan S. , Sayres Lauren
Published: October 2023

Obstructive shock due to cardiac tamponade is a rare, life-threatening occurrence in the peripartum period. Etiologies include preeclampsia, infection, autoimmune conditions, and malignancy. Early recognition of the underlying disease process allows for multidisciplinary treatment and a favorable outcome.

A 33-year-old presented for cardiac tamponade identified in the peripartum period. She was diagnosed with preeclampsia with severe features immediately prior to her repeat cesarean delivery and received magnesium prophylaxis. Postoperatively, she developed hypotension, tachycardia, and shortness of breath and was found to have a pericardial effusion with tamponade physiology. She underwent pericardial drain placement which was initially successful. However, she had recurrent symptomatic tamponade and thus a pericardial window was performed resulting in improvement of her symptoms. Workup revealed pericardial inflammation possibly secondary to a viral source, and she was successfully treated with anti-inflammatory therapy.

We hypothesize that this patient's cardiac tamponade was caused by inflammatory pericarditis exacerbated by severe preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a disease characterized by cardiovascular remodeling and fluid shifts in other compartments and thus is theorized to have contributed to this patient's effusion. Cardiac tamponade should be considered in the differential for any parturient presenting with hypotension and shortness of breath.