bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iranian nurses’ attitudes towards the necessity and barriers to developing nurse prescribing roles
Authors: Naderi Azam , Janatolmakan Maryam , Jalali Rostam , Andayeshgar Bahare , Khatony Alireza
Published: September 2021

Background

Prescribing medication by nurses as an approach to rational drug prescription has been proposed in many countries. Nursing prescribing is an effective measure in the management of critically ill patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU). This study investigated the attitude of ICU nurses towards the necessity and the barriers to developing nursing prescribing.

Materials and methods

In this cross-sectional study, 136 ICU nurses were included by stratified random sampling. The data collection tool was the researcher-made questionnaire. Cronbach’s alpha method was used to evaluate the reliability of the instrument. The validity of the instrument was also verified by the content validity method. To collect the data, the researcher referred to the nurses’ workplace and provided them with a questionnaire and collected it after completion.The collected data were analyzed by IBM SPSS 16 using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results

It was revealed that 58.8 % of nurses were familiar with the term ‘nursing prescribing’; a majority (92.1 %) of whom considered it vital to develop this role in the ICU. Moreover, 86 % (n = 98) of the nurses assumed that it is possible to implement this role in ICU. The most potential barriers to its implementation were lack of legitimacy, disapproval of physicians, and the reluctance of nursing managers.

Conclusions

Most nurses maintained a positive attitude towards nursing prescribing; hence, its legitimacy seems vital in ICUs. For the development of the ‘nurse prescribing’ role, the Nursing System Organization may be helpful.
Viviparity and habitat restrictions may influence the evolution of male reproductive genes in tsetse fly (Glossina) species
Authors: Savini Grazia , Scolari Francesca , Ometto Lino , Rota-Stabelli Omar , Carraretto Davide , Gomulski Ludvik M. , Gasperi Giuliano , Abd-Alla Adly M. M. , Aksoy Serap , Attardo Geoffrey M. , Malacrida Anna R.
Published: September 2021

Background

Glossinaspecies (tsetse flies), the sole vectors of African trypanosomes, maintained along their long evolutionary history a unique reproductive strategy, adenotrophic viviparity. Viviparity reduces their reproductive rate and, as such, imposes strong selective pressures on males for reproductive success. These species live in sub-Saharan Africa, where the distributions of the main sub-generaFusca,Morsitans, andPalpalisare restricted to forest, savannah, and riverine habitats, respectively. Here we aim at identifying the evolutionary patterns of the male reproductive genes of six species belonging to these three main sub-genera. We then interpreted the different patterns we found across the species in the light of viviparity and the specific habitat restrictions, which are known to shape reproductive behavior.

Results

We used a comparative genomic approach to build consensus evolutionary trees that portray the selective pressure acting on the male reproductive genes in these lineages. Such trees reflect the long and divergent demographic history that led to an allopatric distribution of theFusca,Morsitans, andPalpalisspecies groups. A dataset of over 1700 male reproductive genes remained conserved over the long evolutionary time scale (estimated at 26.7 million years) across the genomes of the six species. We suggest that this conservation may result from strong functional selective pressure on the male imposed by viviparity. It is noteworthy that more than half of these conserved genes are novel sequences that are unique to theGlossinagenus and are candidates for selection in the different lineages.

Conclusions

Tsetse flies represent a model to interpret the evolution and differentiation of male reproductive biology under different, but complementary, perspectives. In the light of viviparity, we must take into account that these genes are constrained by a post-fertilization arena for genomic conflicts created by viviparity and absent in ovipositing species. This constraint implies a continuous antagonistic co-evolution between the parental genomes, thus accelerating inter-population post-zygotic isolation and, ultimately, favoring speciation. Ecological restrictions that affect reproductive behavior may further shape such antagonistic co-evolution.
Can we achieve better recruitment by providing better information? Meta-analysis of ‘studies within a trial’ (SWATs) of optimised participant information sheets
Authors: Madurasinghe Vichithranie W. , Bower Peter , Eldridge Sandra , Collier David , Graffy Jonathan , Treweek Shaun , Knapp Peter , Parker Adwoa , Rick Jo , Salisbury Chris , Man Mei See , Torgerson David , Sheridan Rebecca , Sullivan Frank , Cockayne Sarah , Dack Charlotte
Published: September 2021

Background

The information given to people considering taking part in a trial needs to be easy to understand if those people are to become, and then remain, trial participants. However, there is a tension between providing comprehensive information and providing information that is comprehensible. User-testing is one method of developing better participant information, and there is evidence that user-tested information is better at informing participants about key issues relating to trials. However, it is not clear if user-testing also leads to changes in the rates of recruitment in trials, compared to standard trial information. As part of a programme of research, we embedded ‘studies within a trial’ (SWATs) across multiple ongoing trials to see if user-tested materials led to better rates of recruitment.

Methods

Seven ‘host’ trials included a SWAT evaluation and randomised their participants to receive routine information sheets generated by the research teams, or information sheets optimised through user-testing. We collected data on trial recruitment and analysed the results across these trials using random effects meta-analysis, with the primary outcome defined as the proportion of participants randomised in a host trial following an invitation to take part.

Results

Six SWATs (n=27,805) provided data on recruitment. Optimised participant information sheets likely result in little or no difference in recruitment rates (7.2% versus 6.8%, pooled odds ratio = 1.03, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.19, p-value = 0.63, I2 = 0%).

Conclusions

Participant information sheets developed through user testing did not improve recruitment rates. The programme of work showed that co-ordinated testing of recruitment strategies using SWATs is feasible and can provide both definitive and timely evidence on the effectiveness of recruitment strategies.

Trial registration

Healthlines Depression (ISRCTN14172341)

Healthlines CVD (ISRCTN27508731)

CASPER (ISRCTN02202951)

ISDR (ISRCTN87561257)

ECLS (NCT01925625)

REFORM (ISRCTN68240461)

HeLP Diabetes (ISRCTN02123133)
Automation assisted anaerobic phenotyping for metabolic engineering
Authors: Raj Kaushik , Venayak Naveen , Diep Patrick , Golla Sai Akhil , Yakunin Alexander F. , Mahadevan Radhakrishnan
Published: September 2021

Background

Microorganisms can be metabolically engineered to produce a wide range of commercially important chemicals. Advancements in computational strategies for strain design and synthetic biological techniques to construct the designed strains have facilitated the generation of large libraries of potential candidates for chemical production. Consequently, there is a need for high-throughput laboratory scale techniques to characterize and screen these candidates to select strains for further investigation in large scale fermentation processes. Several small-scale fermentation techniques, in conjunction with laboratory automation have enhanced the throughput of enzyme and strain phenotyping experiments. However, such high throughput experimentation typically entails large operational costs and generate massive amounts of laboratory plastic waste.

Results

In this work, we develop an eco-friendly automation workflow that effectively calibrates and decontaminates fixed-tip liquid handling systems to reduce tip waste. We also investigate inexpensive methods to establish anaerobic conditions in microplates for high-throughput anaerobic phenotyping. To validate our phenotyping platform, we perform two case studies—an anaerobic enzyme screen, and a microbial phenotypic screen. We used our automation platform to investigate conditions under which several strains of E. coli exhibit the same phenotypes in 0.5 L bioreactors and in our scaled-down fermentation platform. We also propose the use of dimensionality reduction through t-distributed stochastic neighbours embedding (t-SNE) in conjunction with our phenotyping platform to effectively cluster similarly performing strains at the bioreactor scale.

Conclusions

Fixed-tip liquid handling systems can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste generated in biological laboratories and our decontamination and calibration protocols could facilitate the widespread adoption of such systems. Further, the use of t-SNE in conjunction with our automation platform could serve as an effective scale-down model for bioreactor fermentations. Finally, by integrating an in-house data-analysis pipeline, we were able to accelerate the ‘test’ phase of the design-build-test-learn cycle of metabolic engineering.
Correction to: Serum IFN-γ levels predict the therapeutic effect of mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in active rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Yang Yi , He Xiao , Zhao Rongseng , Guo Wei , Zhu Ming , Xing Wei , Jiang Dongpo , Liu Chongyang , Xu Xiang
Published: September 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Understanding abortion seeking care outside of formal health care settings in Cape Town, South Africa: a qualitative study
Authors: Harries Jane , Daskilewicz Kristen , Bessenaar Tshegofatso , Gerdts Caitlin
Published: September 2021

Background

Although abortion was legalized in South Africa in 1996, barriers to safe, legal abortion services remain, and women continue to seek abortions outside of the formal healthcare sector. This study explored the decision-making processes that women undertake when faced with an unintended pregnancy, the sources of information used to make their decisions and the factors that contribute to their seeking of informal sector abortion in Cape Town, South Africa.

Methods

We conducted 15 semi-structured in-depth interviews in English with women who had accessed an abortion outside of the formal health care sector. Women were recruited with the assistance of a community-based key informant. Data was analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.

Results

Participants were aware that abortions were legal and accessible in public clinics, however they were concerned that others would find out about their unintended pregnancy and abortion if they went to legal providers. Women were also concerned about judgment and mistreatment from providers during their care. Rather than seek care in the formal sector, women looked past concerns around the safety and effectiveness of informal sector abortions and often relied on their social networks for referrals to informal providers.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the decision-making processes employed by women when seeking abortion services in a setting where abortion is legal and demonstrate the role of institutional and societal barriers to safe abortion access. Abortion service delivery models should adapt to women’s needs to enhance the preferences and priorities of those seeking abortion care-including those who prefer facility-based care as well as those who might prefer self-managed medical abortions.
A novel murine model of multi-day moderate ethanol exposure reveals increased intestinal dysfunction and liver inflammation with age
Authors: McMahan Rachel H. , Najarro Kevin M. , Mullen Juliet E. , Paul Madison T. , Orlicky David J. , Hulsebus Holly J. , Kovacs Elizabeth J.
Published: September 2021

Background

There are currently > 600 million people over the age of 65 globally and this number is expected to double by the year 2050. Alcohol use among this population is on the rise, which is concerning as aging is associated with increased risk for a number of chronic illnesses. As most studies investigating the effects of alcohol have focused on young/middle-aged populations, there is a dearth of information regarding the consequences of alcohol use in older consumers. In addition, most murine ethanol models have concentrated on exposure to very high levels of ethanol, while the vast majority of elderly drinkers do not consume alcohol in excess; instead, they drink on average 2 alcoholic beverages a day, 3–4 days a week.

Methods

We designed a murine model of aging and moderate ethanol consumption to determine if the deleterious effects of alcohol on the gut-liver axis are exacerbated in aged, relative to younger, animals. Aged and young mice were exposed to a multi-day moderate exposure ethanol regimen for 4 weeks and changes in gut permeability along with intestinal tight junction protein and antimicrobial peptide gene expression were measured. In addition, hepatic inflammation was assessed by histological analysis, inflammatory gene expression and flow cytometric analysis of inflammatory infiltrate.

Results

Our results reveal that in aged, but not young mice, moderate ethanol exposure yielded significantly worsened intestinal permeability, including increased bacterial translocation from the gut, elevated serum iFABP and leakage of FITC-dextran from the gut. Interestingly, moderate ethanol exposure in young animals led to gut protective transcriptional changes in the ileum while this protective response was blunted in aged mice. Finally, moderate ethanol exposure in aged mice also resulted in marked inflammatory changes in the liver.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that aged mice are more susceptible to ethanol-induced gut barrier dysfunction and liver inflammation, even at moderate doses of ethanol. This increased vulnerability to ethanol’s gastrointestinal effects has important implications for alcohol use in the aging population. Future studies will explore whether improving intestinal barrier function can reverse these age-related changes.
Feasting, not fasting: winter diets of cave hibernating bats in the United States
Authors: Bernard Riley F. , Willcox Emma V. , Jackson Reilly T. , Brown Veronica A. , McCracken Gary F.
Published: September 2021

Temperate bat species use extended torpor to conserve energy when ambient temperatures are low and food resources are scarce. Previous research suggests that migratory bat species and species known to roost in thermally unstable locations, such as those that roost in trees, are more likely to remain active during winter. However, hibernating colonies of cave roosting bats in the southeastern United States may also be active and emerge from caves throughout the hibernation period. We report what bats are eating during these bouts of winter activity. We captured 2,044 bats of 10 species that emerged from six hibernacula over the course of 5 winters (October–April 2012/2013, 2013/2014, 2015/2016, 2016/2017, and 2017/2018). Using Next Generation sequencing of DNA from 284 fecal samples, we determined bats consumed at least 14 Orders of insect prey while active. Dietary composition did not vary among bat species; however, we did record variation in the dominant prey items represented in species’ diets. We recorded Lepidoptera in the diet of 72.2% of individual Corynorhinus rafinesquii and 67.4% of individual Lasiurus borealis. Diptera were recorded in 32.4% of Myotis leibii, 37.4% of M. lucifugus, 35.5% of M. sodalis and 68.8% of Perimyotis subflavus. Our study is the first to use molecular genetic techniques to identify the winter diet of North American hibernating bats. The information from this study is integral to managing the landscape around bat hibernacula for insect prey, particularly in areas where hibernating bat populations are threatened by white-nose syndrome.
Factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding practice among mothers in nine community health centres in Nanning city, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Jia , Zhao Chen , Wang Yan , Wang Yin P. , Chen Chun Y. , Huang Yue , Gao Ya Q. , Fang Jin , Zhou Hong
Published: September 2021

Background

The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is suboptimal in China. There is limited evidence of effective interventions to increase EBF in China. Therefore, it is urgent to explore the potential factors that may be effective in promoting exclusive breastfeeding. Previous studies have mainly focused on socio-demographic factors and the Han ethnic group. This study explores more modifiable influencing factors of EBF in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China.

Methods

The cross-sectional data used in this study were collected to provide baseline information on EBF prevalence for a breastfeeding promotion project. A total of 494 mothers of infants aged 0–5 months were recruited from nine community health centres in Nanning, China, in October 2019. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires. Infant feeding was measured by 24-h recall. The Chinese version of the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale–Short Form was used to examine the maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to examine the factors associated with EBF practices.

Results

In the present study, the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding was 37.0%. Higher breastfeeding self-efficacy scores (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.93; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.25, 2.98), a college degree or above (AOR 2.15; 95% CI 1.24, 3.71), and early initiation of breastfeeding (AOR 2.06; 95% CI 1.29, 3.29) were positively associated with EBF practice. However, the preparation for infant formula before childbirth (AOR 0.30; 95% CI 0.17, 0.52) and premature birth (AOR 0.30; 95% CI 0.10, 0.87) were negatively associated with EBF practice.

Conclusions

Exclusive breastfeeding practice was suboptimal and associated with various factors in the study area. The prevalence of EBF was positively associated with higher breastfeeding self-efficacy, education level of mothers, and early initiation of breastfeeding, whereas premature birth and preparation for infant formula before childbirth were barriers to exclusive breastfeeding. Future intervention projects should target mothers with premature babies, lower levels of education, and breastfeeding self-efficacy. Breastfeeding-friendly practices, such as the early initiation of breastfeeding and regulations on breastmilk substitutes, should also be encouraged.
Physical and mental growth and development in children with congenital hypothyroidism: a case–control study
Authors: Nazari Javad , Jafari Kimia , Chegini Maryam , Maleki Akram , MirShafiei Pari , Alimohammadi Ali , Kazemzadeh Yasan , Mikaeliyan Reihaneh , Amini Saeed
Published: September 2021

Introduction

The clinical complications of congenital hypothyroidism such as brain disorders are very subtle and are not recognizable in infancy period. They are recognizable when it is too late for treatment or prevention. General screening of newborns is effective in diagnosing congenital hypothyroidism and initiating initial treatment. The aim of this study is to compare the physical and mental growth pattern of children with congenital hypothyroidism with healthy ones.

Methods

This case–control study was performed on 34 patients and 68 healthy children who were matched in terms of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Children development screening test (ASQ), children development assessment test (Bayley), preschool Wechsler intelligence scale (WPPSI) and age and steps questionnaire of emotional social development (ASQ-SE) were completed by trained questioners. Data were analyzed using STATA software.

Results

The results indicated that there was no significant difference between the mean of verbal (P = 0.77), non-verbal (P = 0.81) and general (P = 0.66) IQ in permanent and transient patients and healthy individuals. Also, there was no significant difference between the mean of different ranges of ASQ test (including communication, delicate and large movements, problem solving and social) at 12 months and 42 months (P < 0.05). According to Bayley test, there was no significant difference between the cases (permanent and transient) and controls in the cognitive (P = 0.42) and expressive (P = 0.38) categories. The difference was significant in the perceptual (P = 0.011), large (P = 0.03) and delicate (P = 0.04) movements categories.

Conclusion

This study emphasized on the high effectiveness of neonate hypothyroidism screening program, so that the difference between 3.5 years old children with and without this disease has decreased significantly. Early diagnosis of the patients, while creating beneficial effects for patients and increasing quality of life, cause reduction in the long-term costs of the health system.
Age of puppies at referral to veterinary cardiology specialists for murmur investigation
Authors: Rovroy Lynn Bernadette , Szatmári Viktor
Published: September 2021

Background

Cardiac auscultation is an important screening test at the first health examination of puppies because most clinically relevant congenital cardiac anomalies cause a loud murmur from birth. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the age at which dogs with suspected congenital cardiac anomalies were referred to a veterinary cardiology specialist for murmur investigation. A secondary aim was to establish the time interval between the visit to the cardiologist and the first available murmur documentation. The digital archive of a veterinary teaching hospital was searched for dogs with congenital cardiac anomalies and puppies with innocent murmurs during a 5-year period. Dogs had to be referred because of a murmur, and they had to undergo physical examination and echocardiography by a veterinary cardiology specialist. The health certificate section of the pet passport, and the medical records from the referring veterinarian, were reviewed to identify the date when the murmur was first documented.

Results

Of the 271 included dogs, 94% had a congenital cardiac anomaly and 6% had an innocent murmur. The dogs’ median age was 190 days when they were examined by the cardiologist. Only 10% of the dogs were referred by the breeder’s veterinarian, while 90% of the dogs were referred by the new owner’s veterinarian. The median age of the first available murmur documentation by a first opinion veterinary practitioner was 95 days.

Conclusions

Only 10% of the puppies in the present study were referred to a veterinary cardiology specialist for murmur investigation before they were sold to a new owner. Referral prior to re-homing would have been feasible if the murmur had been detected and documented by the breeder’s veterinarian, if referral was offered by the breeder’s veterinarian and the referral was accepted by the breeder.
Prognostic and predictive biomarker developments in multiple myeloma
Authors: Wallington-Beddoe Craig T. , Mynott Rachel L.
Published: September 2021

New approaches to stratify multiple myeloma patients based on prognosis and therapeutic decision-making, or prediction, are needed since patients are currently managed in a similar manner regardless of individual risk factors or disease characteristics. However, despite new and improved biomarkers for determining the prognosis of patients, there is currently insufficient information to utilise biomarkers to intensify, reduce or altogether change treatment, nor to target patient-specific biology in a so-called predictive manner. The ever-increasing number and complexity of drug classes to treat multiple myeloma have improved response rates and so clinically useful biomarkers will need to be relevant in the era of such novel therapies. Therefore, the field of multiple myeloma biomarker development is rapidly progressing, spurred on by new technologies and therapeutic approaches, and underpinned by a deeper understanding of tumour biology with individualised patient management the goal. In this review, we describe the main biomarker categories in multiple myeloma and relate these to diagnostic, prognostic and predictive applications.
Galectin-1 as a predictive biomarker in ovarian cancer
Authors: Masoodi Mahak , Shah Zafar A. , Beigh Afaq H. , Ahmad Sheikh Zahoor , Mir Abdul Wahid , Yasin Besina , Rasool Roohi , Masoodi Khalid Z. , Bhat Gull Mohammad
Published: September 2021

Aim

There is an urgent need to set up a useful biomarker for ovarian cancer. Galectin-1 is a promising carbohydrate-binding protein which plays a remarkable role in various malignancies yet its clinical significance is questionable. In this study, we have tested the clinical implications of serum Galectin-1 levels in patients with ovarian tumours.

Main methods

Serum Galectin-1 levels were quantified in 84 newly diagnosed ovarian tumour patients and 20 healthy controls by Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay during the course of the disease. Therefore the samples were taken at diagnosis, after surgery and after chemotherapy.

Key findings

The Galectin-1 levels were found to be associated with various variables of Ovarian Cancer patients. The levels were found to be prominently high in postmenopausal patients. Galectin-1 levels were raised in epithelial ovarian tumours with significantly high levels in serous subtype. A decrease in Galectin-1 levels post-surgical intervention and after receiving chemotherapy was found. Galectin-1 levels evidently distinguished between normal, benign, malignant and metastatic cases as compared to CA125 levels. Galectin-1 demonstrated to be a better biomarker than CA125 according to the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Significance

The study emphasizes that serum Galectin-1 may serve as a better surrogate biomarker in Ovarian Cancer for early detection, discriminating between malignant and benign abdominal masses and monitoring the progression of the disease and response to treatment.
Cognitive and socio-emotional correlates of psychological well-being and mental health in Guatemalan adults
Authors: Ramírez-Luzuriaga María J. , Ochaeta Laura , Ramírez-Zea Manuel , DiGirolamo Ann , Waford Rachel , Wray Charlotte , Martorell Reynaldo , Stein Aryeh D.
Published: September 2021

Background

Little is known about associations of psychological and mental well-being with cognitive and socioemotional factors in low and middle-income countries, particularly among vulnerable populations born in adverse environments that may restrict developmental potential. This study aimed to examine the cognitive and socioemotional correlates of psychological well-being and mental health in a cohort of Guatemalan adults born in contexts of poverty and malnutrition.

Methods

From Dec 2017 to Apr 2019, data were collected from 704 women and 564 men ages 40–57 years living in four rural villages in eastern Guatemala and Guatemala City. We measured latent domains of psychological well-being, spirituality and religion, emotional support, and executive function using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Under a Structural Equation Modeling framework, we examined intercorrelations among latent domains and observed measures of intelligence and mental health.

Results

CFA supported the construct validity of factor structures in this population. Correlations of psychological well-being with spirituality and religion were moderate in women (r = 0.68, p < 0.001) and men (r = 0.70, p < 0.001). Executive function was weakly correlated with psychological well-being in men (r = 0.23, p < 0.001) and showed no association in women. Correlations of psychological well-being with emotional support and IQ were weak in women (r = 0.34, and r = 0.15, respectively; p < 0.001 for both) and men (r = 0.35, and r = 0.25, respectively; p < 0.001 for both). Mental health and IQ were weakly correlated in men (r = 0.09, p < 0.05) and showed no association in women. Mental health showed weak correlations with emotional support (r = 0.18, p < 0.001 in women; r = 0.09, p < 0.05 in men), psychological well-being (r = 0.32 and r = 0.35, in women and men respectively; p < 0.001 for both) and showed no association with executive function in both sexes.

Conclusions

Of all examined factors, spirituality and religion made the greatest contribution to psychological well-being. These findings support the notion that in populations experiencing difficult circumstances, religion can perhaps make a greater contribution to well-being and aid coping. More research is needed to examine mediators of this association.
Multivariate analysis and spatial distribution of suspended particulate metals of Abakaliki and Enugu in Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Ichu Bright Chigozie , Opara Alexander Iheanyichukwu , Ejike Emmanuel Nnamdi , Nkwoada Amarachi Udoka , Ibe Francis Chizoruo , Dioha Emmanuel Chuka
Published: September 2021

Background

The atmosphere is usually contaminated by heavy metals from different natural and anthropogenic sources. The levels of heavy metals in the atmosphere often become harmful and cause environmental pollution with serious health consequences to humans when their concentrations exceed certain threshold limits. The determination of the atmospherically suspended particulate matter in general and toxic trace metallic concentrations in particular, is, therefore, necessary for the evaluation of the sources and fate of atmospherically deposited suspended particulate matter. The assessment of the concentration levels of suspended particulate trace metals like Zn and Pb in the cities of Enugu and Abakaliki southeastern Nigeria was performed to assess the concentrations of atmospherically suspended metals in the area, their sources, and their pollution status.

Results

Results of the study showed that Zn concentration levels were not significant at all the sampling points, while the concentrations of Pb particulate matter which ranged from 0.11 to 0.91 µg/m3 exceeded the international revised EPA Pb standard of 0.15 µg/m3 but within the approved Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv) Nigeria, 24 h long duration of 1 µg/m3, and National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) 1 h duration (1 µg/m3). The enrichment factor (EF) showed that Pb had a dominant crustal source, while Zn was determined to be of minor to moderate crust enrichment. The multivariate analysis carried out using principal component analysis (PCA) based on varimax rotation and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) plotted in biplot and dendrogram diagrams revealed the levels of dependency and grouping, whereas Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient (PC) revealed a strong link between the two metallic pollutants

Conclusion

This study therefore which applied statistical and pollution assessment of atmospherically suspended particulate matter has revealed the importance of monitoring atmospherically suspended materials resulting from anthropogenic sources like mining, quarrying, construction, etc. Similarly, the use of statistical techniques like PCA, HCA, and Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient to the study of ambient air quality has proved to be a useful tool in the assessment of atmospheric pollution. The findings of the present study therefore will be invaluable in the monitoring of particulate matter pollution of the atmosphere and their control measures, especially in mining districts.
Does Radioactive Iodine Therapy for Hyperthyroidism Cause Cancer?
Authors: Kim Brian W
Published: September 2021

Radioactive iodine has been considered a safe and effective therapeutic option for hyperthyroidism secondary to Graves disease and autonomously functioning thyroid nodules since the mid-20th century. The question of whether I-131 at the doses used for hyperthyroidism might increase the risk of cancer has been investigated in a number of observational cohort studies over the years, with the preponderance of evidence being reassuring as to its safety. In particular, the 1998 Cooperative Thyrotoxicosis Therapy Follow-up Study (CTTFUS) has been widely cited as compelling evidence that I-131 is safe in hyperthyroidism therapy with respect to carcinogenesis. However, in 2019, a study by Kitahara and colleagues re-analyzed the CTTFUS cohort, extending the follow-up time and applying a novel dosimetric model for estimating tissue absorbed doses of radiation. This new analysis concluded that radioactive iodine was associated with an increased risk for mortality from overall cancer, breast cancer, and non-breast solid cancers. Reaction to this study was vociferous and particularly negative in the nuclear medicine literature. This mini-review was inspired by the 2019 CTTFUS controversy, and it is intended to provide the necessary context for clinicians to provide nuanced advice to their patients on the subject. To that end, the pre-2019 literature is surveyed, the 2019 CTTFUS study and a 2020 follow-up are discussed, and lessons from the literature and critical commentaries are considered.
Kinematics and hydrodynamics analyses of swimming penguins: wing bending improves propulsion performance
Authors: Harada Natsuki , Oura Takuma , Maeda Masateru , Shen Yayi , Kikuchi Dale M. , Tanaka Hiroto
Published: September 2021

Penguins are adapted to underwater life and have excellent swimming abilities. Although previous motion analyses revealed their basic swimming characteristics, the details of the 3D wing kinematics, wing deformation and thrust generation mechanism of penguins are still largely unknown. In this study, we recorded the forward and horizontal swimming of gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua) at an aquarium with multiple underwater action cameras and then performed a 3D motion analysis. We also conducted a series of water tunnel experiments with a 3D printed rigid wing to obtain lift and drag coefficients in the gliding configuration. Using these coefficients, the thrust force during flapping was calculated in a quasi-steady manner, where the following two wing models were considered: (1) an ‘original’ wing model reconstructed from 3D motion analysis including bending deformation and (2) a ‘flat’ wing model obtained by flattening the original wing model. The resultant body trajectory showed that the penguin accelerated forward during both upstroke and downstroke. The motion analysis of the two wing models revealed that considerable bending occurred in the original wing, which reduced its angle of attack during the upstroke in particular. Consequently, the calculated stroke-averaged thrust was larger for the original wing than for the flat wing during the upstroke. In addition, the propulsive efficiency for the original wing was estimated to be 1.8 times higher than that for the flat wing. Our results unveil a detailed mechanism of lift-based propulsion in penguins and underscore the importance of wing bending.
The association of socio-demographic and environmental factors on childhood diarrhea in Cambodia
Authors: Pisey Vong , Banchonhattakit Pannee , Laohasiriwong Wongsa
Published: September 2021

Background: Diarrhea diseases remain the leading cause of death among children under-five in lower and lower-middle-income countries. This study was conducted to investigate the factors related to diarrhea among children aged 12 to 35 months in Cambodia.

Methods: We analyzed cross-sectional data from the Cambodia Demographic and Health Survey 2014 using a combination of household and children’s datasets. A generalized linear mixed model was used to analyze the determinant factors of diarrhea.

Results: The survey included 2,828 children aged 12 to 35 months. The prevalence of diarrhea in the last 2 weeks was 16.44% (95% CI: 14.72%-18.31%). Factors significantly associated with childhood diarrhea were: maternal unemployment (AOR = 1.43; 95% CI: 1.14-1.78); the child being male (AOR = 1.25; 95%CI: 1.02-1.53); the presence of unimproved toilet facilities (AOR = 1.17; 95%CI: 1.05-1.31); and unhygienic disposal of children’s stools (AOR = 1.32; 95%CI: 1.06-1.64) when controlling for other covariates. Both maternal age (one year older; AOR = 0.85; 95%CI: 0.78– 0.93) and child age (one month older; AOR = 0.86; 95%CI: 0.78-0.94) had significant negative associations with the occurrence of childhood diarrhea.

Conclusion: Childhood diarrhea remains a public health concern in Cambodia. Intervention programs should focus on reducing diarrheal diseases by constructing improved toilet facilities and promoting behavior to improve hygiene, specifically targeting younger mothers.
Factors related to depression in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in two coastal regions of Peru: An analytical cross-sectional study
Authors: Quispe Sáenz Elena de Jesús , Salvador-Carrillo José Fernando , Rivera-Lozada Oriana , Bonilla-Asalde César Antonio
Published: September 2021

Background: Mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and their aggravation have been studied extensively in the general population. However, there are few studies on depression in older adults and the few existing results may be contradictory, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study is to determine the factors associated with depression in older adults in two coastal regions of Peru during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: This study uses an analytical cross-sectional design in a population of older adults, who participated in a non-governmental ambulatory social support program in Callao and Ica, two coastal regions of Peru. We administered an on-site structured questionnaire to record sociodemographic data, the Geriatric Depression Scale by Yesavage to measure depression, and the Barthel Index to assess physical function. In order to determine cognitive impairment as an exclusion criterion, the MEC-30 was used. The association between variables was assessed through contingency tables, using the odds ratio (OR) with its corresponding confidence interval (95% CI) and the X2 test. Finally, a binary logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results: Out of the 244 older adults surveyed, 39% had depressive symptoms, of which 28.3% (n=69) and 10.7% (n=26) were moderately and severely depressive, respectively. The findings significantly associated with the presence of depressive symptoms were being 76 years old or older [p=0.005, OR: 2.33, 95% CI: 1.29-4.20], not participating in weekly recreational activities [p=0.004, OR: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.31-3.99] and the presence of comorbidities [p=0.026, OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.07-3.29].

Conclusion: There are few studies exploring depression in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic; this research shows the importance of mental health care in this population and, particularly, of those who are 76 or older because they suffer from comorbid conditions and have interrupted recreational activities.
Clustering of noncommunicable disease risk factors among adolescents attending higher secondary schools in Kasaragod District, Kerala, India
Authors: Sreena Thekke Veedu , Mathews Elezebeth , Kodali Prakash Babu , Thankappan Kavumpurathu Raman
Published: September 2021

Background: Limited evidence exists on the presence of collective non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors among adolescents in Kerala, India. We aimed to assess the prevalence and factors associated with multiple NCD risk factors and the clustering of these risk factors among adolescents in Kasaragod District, Kerala.

Methods: We selected 470 adolescents (mean age 16.6 years, male 53.8%) through multi-stage cluster sampling from higher secondary schools of Kasaragod district. Self-administered questionnaires were used, and anthropometric measurements were taken using standard techniques and protocols. Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, low fruits and vegetable consumption, inadequate physical activity, extra salt intake, overweight, consumption of soft drinks and packed foods were the eight NCD risk factors included.The factors associated with one, two and three or more NCD risk factors were analysed using multinomial logistic regression and the standard errors were adjusted for the four clusters.

Results: Risk factor clusters with two risk factors (dyads) and three risk factors (triads) were observed in 163 (34.7%) and 102 (21.7%) of the sample, respectively. Adolescents residing in urban areas (odds ratio (OR) = 3.55; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.45-8.73), whose father’s education level was lower (OR = 3.54;  95% CI = 1.24-10.10), whose mother’s education was lower (OR= 4.13; 95% CI = 1.27-13.51), who had restrictions on physical activity (OR = 5.41; 95% CI = 1.20-24.30) and who did not have a kitchen garden (an area where fruits and vegetables are grown for domestic use) (OR=4.51;95%  CI = 1.44-14.12) were more likely to have three or more NCD risk factors compared to their counterparts.  

Conclusions: Clustering of NCD risk factors was prevalent in more than half of the adolescents. Efforts are warranted to reduce multiple risk factors, focussing on children of low educated parents and urban residents.
Specyfika systemu pojedynczego głosu przechodniego (PR-STV) na przykładzie wyborów samorządowych w Irlandii i udziału w nich społeczności imigranckich
Authors: Kostka Wojciech , Lesińska Magdalena
Published: September 2021

The aim of the article is a critical analysis of the electoral system of a single transferable vote on the example of local elections in Ireland and its evaluation from the point of view of key participants: voters, political parties and new players – immigrant candidates. The organization of elections, the vote counting methods and the rule of transfer of votes to seats as well as the influence of the electoral system on political parties strategies and voter behavior are presented in detail. In principle, the proportional system should be more friendly to independent candidates and small interest groups, but the case of immigrant candidates running in the elections in Ireland shows that in practice it is difficult for new players to achieve election success without the support of political parties. The analysis is based on a diverse sources, the review of academic literature and statistical data is complemented by the results of qualitative research – the in-depth interviews with Polish candidates running in the local elections in Ireland in the years 2009–2019.
Druzowie w armii izraelskiej – od braterstwa krwi do asymilacji
Authors: Mazur Przemysław
Published: September 2021

Druzowie są jedną z nielicznych, obok Beduinów i Czerkiesów, autochtonicznych mniejszości etnicznych mogących służyć w armii izraelskiej (Izraelskie Siły Obrony – IDF). Jest to ludność lojalna wobec tego państwa od jego początków. Artykuł ten ma dwa podstawowe cele. Pierwszym jest oczywiście opisanie historii, zasad i znaczenia służby Druzów, przy okazji przybliżenie historii tej mniejszości w Izraelu. Drugim jest pytanie o obecną sytuację Druzów i politykę Izraela w stosunku do swoich mniejszości narodowych, zwłaszcza po przyjęciu tzw. Nationality Bill, na przykładzie Druzów właśnie.
Węzłowe elementy relacji polsko-amerykańskich w świetle analizy ramowania
Authors: Matysek Ksymena
Published: September 2021

Celem tego artykułu jest przedstawienie tematów poruszanych w odniesieniu do relacji polsko-amerykańskich podczas debaty parlamentarnej odbywającej się po exposé ministrów spraw zagranicznych oraz porównanie jej do treści zawartych w programach wyborczych polskich partii politycznych. Podstawową metodą badawczą użytą na potrzeby tego artykułu jest analiza zawartości oraz ramowanie (framing analysis). Objęto nimi exposé ministrów spraw zagranicznych oraz programy polskich partii politycznych w odniesieniu do relacji polsko-amerykańskich. Ma ona na celu porównanie i skonfrontowanie treści i tematów poruszanych w programach partii z treścią i tematami poruszanymi przez ministra spraw zagranicznych w corocznej informacji rządu.
Ewolucja stosunków handlowych i umownych Polski z krajami EWG w latach 1960–1990
Authors: Klimiuk Zbigniew
Published: September 2021

Artykuł analizuje kolejne etapy stosunków handlowych i umownych Polski z krajami EWG od momentu powstania tej organizacji. Stosunki Polski z EWG w latach 60. i 70. XX w. pozostawały pod dużym wpływem czynników politycznych. Mniejsza rola przypadała uwarunkowaniom ekonomicznym. W handlu Wschód–Zachód występowały silne ograniczenia, m.in. strategiczne ograniczenia eksportowe, ograniczenia kredytowe oraz stosowane przez kraje EWG ograniczenia ilościowe importu z krajów socjalistycznych. Polskie kontakty z EWG, zwane w odróżnieniu od oficjalnych – technicznymi, rozpoczęły się w 1964 r. W handlu Wspólnoty Polska odgrywała historycznie niewielką rolę i nie miała dla EWG istotnego znaczenia. Udział Polski w globalnym imporcie państw Wspólnoty w 1988 r. wynosił tylko 0,23%. Po podpisaniu w 1989 r. umowy handlowej między Polską a Wspólnotą Europejską rząd polski podjął starania o nawiązanie maksymalnie szerokiej współpracy z EWG.
The Analysis of the Chlorogenic Acid in the Ethanol Fraction of Robusta Coffee Beans and Its Effect on Glucose Levels in Wistar Rats
Authors: Hasanuddin Rusman , Jasmiadi Jasmiadi , Abdillah Nurliana
Published: September 2021

Background: The metabolic disorder caused by high blood glucose levels and pancreatic beta-cell damage is known as diabetes mellitus. Indonesia itself is the 7th country in the world with the number of people with diabetes mellitus. Indonesia occupies rank 7 in the world with the number of people with diabetes mellitus. Apart from that, robusta coffee (Coffea canephora L) is one of the most popular drinks globally, including Indonesia. Chlorogenic acid in coffee beans effectively reduces cell damage due to free radicals, including minimizing excessive glucose release from the liver into the blood. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the effects of chlorogenic acid in the ethanolic fraction of robusta coffee (Coffea canephora L) beans on blood glucose levels in Wistar rats. Method: The researchers applied an experimental study with a randomized pretest-posttest control group design. The beans of robusta coffee were extracted using the Maceration method and then fractionated using a hexane and ethyl acetate solvent. The concentration of the obtained remaining fraction was measured using a spectrophotometer. Furthermore, hyperglycemia testing included 30 Wistar rats induced with 20% glucose for 3 – 4 weeks. They were then given the ethanol fraction of robusta coffee with a dose of 400 mg/kg BW and 500 mg/kg BW. Meanwhile, metformin served as a positive control, and NaCMC served as a negative control. Results: The chlorogenic acid analysis in the ethanol fraction of robusta coffee on a spectrophotometer with a concentration of 37% indicated a decrease of 16.66% on the negative control and 48.06% on the positive control. Meanwhile, the ethanol fraction of each control was 51.53% and 52.16%, respectively. Conclusion: The ethanol fraction of the robusta coffee significantly affects the decrease in blood glucose levels in Wistar rats.
Um estudo acerca do aluguel social como instrumento de acesso do direito à moradia digna diante do déficit de habitação no Brasil
Authors: Dias Daniella Maria dos Santos , Santos Juliana Coelho dos
Published: September 2021

O presente artigo objetiva analisar a política do aluguel social como forma de acesso à moradia digna, levando-se em consideração o aumento do déficit habitacional no Brasil ao longo dos últimos anos. Para tanto, realiza uma ampla análise do direito em estudo, assim como apresenta os dados atuais acerca do déficit habitacional no país. Do mesmo modo, avalia o modelo de política habitacional adotado no país, apontando suas deficiências em relação às demandas por moradia da população de baixa renda. Defende, por fim, o aluguel social como importante instrumento capaz de tornar a política de habitação social no Brasil mais justa e igualitária ao garantir o direito à moradia digna às camadas sociais mais necessitadas. A metodologia utilizada baseia-se no método dedutivo e em pesquisa bibliográfica.