bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calibration and error compensation of scanner-based robotic belt grinding system
Authors: Jiang Zhenhua , Zhou You , Wang Li
Published: December 2022

Turbine blade is one of the key components of turbomachinery, and the machining quality of its airfoil surface has an important impact on the operating efficiency, service life, and safety of the turbine. Robotic abrasive belt grinding has become an important means of blade airfoil surface machining. Based on the self-developed robot grinding system, this paper proposes a scanner-based system calibration method to determine the relationships among coordinate systems of measurement, robot base, tool, and workpiece. An accurate and efficent calibration method of workpiece coordinate system based on rapid surface segmentation of point cloud using CAD model is established. An blade error surface is constructed by B-spline interpolation to compensate system errors such as absolute positioning error of robot, calibration error, and blade shape error. The calibration process is illustrated at the end of this paper. The effectiveness of the calibration and error compensation methods proposed in this paper are verified by the simulation results.
Study on the effectiveness of modified colonoscopy nursing pads in colonoscopy
Authors: Bao Zhenfei , Hu Chunyan , Zhu Lei , Wang Weihong
Published: December 2022

Objective

To investigate the effect of modified colonoscopy nursing pads in colonoscopy.

Methods

A total of 262 subjects who underwent colonoscopy at our endoscopy center between September 1, 2021 and February 28, 2022 were selected and randomly divided into a control group and an experimental group, with 131 cases in each group. The control group used conventional nursing pads, while the experimental group used modified nursing pads. The success rate of the first correct position, the time spent by the nurse to guide the correct position, the bed unit contamination rate, the contamination rate of the operator's protective equipment, the privacy protection of the examinees and the satisfaction degree after the examination were compared between the two groups.

Results

The success rate of the first correct position of the examinees in the experimental group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05), and the time spent by the nurses to guide the correct position in the experimental group was less than that of the control group (P < 0.05). The bed unit contamination rate and operator's protective equipment contamination rate of the experimental group were lower than those of the control group, and the satisfaction degree of the examinees was higher in the experimental group than in the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The modified colonoscopy nursing pad can save the time of correct colonoscopy positioning of examinees, improve the efficiency of colonoscopy, reduce the workload of nursing staff, effectively protect the privacy of patients, reduce the bed unit contamination and protective equipment contamination, and then improve the comfort and satisfaction of patients.
Operative treatment of nonunions in the elderly: Clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients at minimum 75 years of age
Authors: van Trikt Clinton H. , Donders Johanna C. E. , Klinger Craig E. , Wellman David S. , Helfet David L. , Kloen Peter
Published: December 2022

Background

Limited information exists on nonunion treatment in the elderly. This retrospective study evaluates whether results of operative treatment of nonunion of the humerus or femur in patients aged ≥ 75 years are comparable to those in younger patients.

Methods

We identified patients age ≥ 75 years with a nonunion of humerus or femur treated with open reduction and internal fixation. The Non-Union Scoring System was calculated. Complications, clinical outcome, and radiographic findings were assessed. Primary endpoint was nonunion healing. A literature review compared time to healing of humeral and femoral nonunion in younger populations.

Results

We identified 45 patients treated for a nonunion of humerus or femur with > 12 months follow-up. Median age was 79 years (range 75–96). Median time to presentation was 12 months (range 4–127) after injury, median number of prior surgeries was 1 (range 0–4). Union rate was 100%, with median time to union 6 months (range 2–42). Six patients underwent revision for persistent nonunion and healed without further complications.

Conclusions

Using a protocol of debridement, alignment, compression, stable fixation, bone grafting and early motion, patients aged 75 years or older can reliably achieve healing when faced with a nonunion of the humerus or femur.

Level of Evidence: IV.
Evolution of burnout and psychological distress in healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: a 1-year observational study
Authors: Cyr Samuel , Marcil Marie-Joelle , Houchi Cylia , Marin Marie-France , Rosa Camille , Tardif Jean-Claude , Guay Stéphane , Guertin Marie-Claude , Genest Christine , Forest Jacques , Lavoie Patrick , Labrosse Mélanie , Vadeboncoeur Alain , Selcer Shaun , Ducharme Simon , Brouillette Judith
Published: December 2022

Background

Long-term psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers remain unknown. We aimed to determine the one-year progression of burnout and mental health since pandemic onset, and verify if protective factors against psychological distress at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic (Cyr et al. in Front Psychiatry; 2021) remained associated when assessed several months later.

Methods

We used validated questionnaires (Maslach Burnout Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression and posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD] Checklist for DSM-5 scales) to assess burnout and psychological distress in 410 healthcare workers from Quebec, Canada, at three and 12 months after pandemic onset. We then performed multivariable regression analyses to identify protective factors of burnout and mental health at 12 months. As the equivalent regression analyses at three months post-pandemic onset had already been conducted in the previous paper, we could compare the protective factors at both time points.

Results

Prevalence of burnout and anxiety were similar at three and 12 months (52% vs. 51%, p = 0.66; 23% vs. 23%, p = 0.91), while PTSD (23% vs. 11%, p < 0.0001) and depression (11% vs. 6%, p = 0.001) decreased significantly over time. Higher resilience was associated with a lower probability of all outcomes at both time points. Perceived organizational support remained significantly associated with a reduced risk of burnout at 12 months. Social support emerged as a protective factor against burnout at 12 months and persisted over time for studied PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

Conclusions

Healthcare workers’ occupational and mental health stabilized or improved between three and 12 months after the pandemic onset. The predominant protective factors against burnout remained resilience and perceived organizational support. For PTSD, anxiety and depression, resilience and social support were important factors over time.
Feasibility of conducting HIV prevention trials among key populations in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Mutisya Elizabeth Mueni , Muturi-Kioi Vincent , Abaasa Andrew , Nyasani Delvin , Kabuti Rhoda W. , Lunani Laura , Kotikot Timothy , Mundia Moses , Mutua Gaudensia , Ombati Geoffrey , Nduta Hannah , Price Matt A. , Kimani Joshua , Anzala Aggrey Omu
Published: December 2022

Objective

To assess the feasibility of conducting HIV prevention trials among key populations in Nairobi, Kenya.

Background

HIV prevention trials require the inclusion of those at high risk of HIV infection and their informed decision to take part and remain in the clinical trial to the end is crucial. In Kenya key populations including men who have sex with men (MSM) and female sex workers (FSW) are, disproportionately, at high risk of HIV infection when compared to the general population. Few trials testing biomedical prevention products against HIV have enrolled Kenyan FSW and MSM.

Methods

We performed simulated vaccine efficacy trial (SiVET) using licensed hepatitis B vaccines as substitutes for a HIV vaccine candidate and included randomization for those immune to hep B. The SiVET was an observational study designed to mimic the rigors of a clinical trial; we assessed HIV risk, provided risk counselling and prevention tools and performed HIV testing at baseline and periodically until the end of the trial. MSM and FSW were enrolled at a ratio of 4:1. Volunteers were assigned to either hepatitis B vaccine or placebo.

Results

Recruitment took approximately 24 months between Sep 2015 and Sep 2017. Of the 368 volunteers screened, 250 (200 MSM and 50 FSW) were enrolled. Reasons for exclusion at screening included: being positive for HIV (n = 7), hepatitis (n = 14), other pre-existing medical conditions (n = 41), eligible but chose not to enrol (n = 47). Most of the volunteers adhered to study procedures and attended their study visits within the study window. These include volunteers who received the second vaccination 244 (98%), the third vaccination 228 (91%) and, the final study visit 217 (87%). The reasons volunteers discontinued from the study early included: relocation and loss to follow up (n = 14). A total of 8 cases of HIV infection were observed in 174.5 Person Years at Risk (PYAR), all among MSM, including 5 seroconversions identified at the last study visit, for a HIV incidence of 4.58 cases/ 100 PYAR, among MSM enrolled in the study.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that it is possible to conduct HIV prevention trials among key populations in Nairobi with a good adherence to a vaccine efficacy trial schedule. Despite HIV prevention efforts, we also noted a high incidence of HIV infection. This demonstrates the need for effective HIV prevention products in these populations.
Anti-atherogenic and cardio-protective properties of sweet melon (Cucumis melo. L. Inodorus) seed extract on high fat diet induced obesity in male wistar rats
Authors: Adebayo-Gege G. , Alicha V. , Omayone T. O. , Nzekwe S. C. , Irozuoke C. A. , Ojo O. A. , Ajayi A. F.
Published: December 2022

Background

Cucumis melon is a medicinal plant with multiple pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and diuretic effects. An increasing body of scientific evidence established the anti-diabetic/anti-obesity effects of Cucumis melo in humans, mice, and hamster models. However, there are no tangible reports on its ability to prevent cardiovascular complications following diet-induced obesity. The anti-atherogenic and cardioprotective effects of the Methanolic extract of Cucumis melo. L. Inodorus seeds on a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats was assessed in this study. 

Methods

Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups, (n = 8/group); i.e., Normal (N), HFD, HFD + 50 mg/kg b.w. of MCMs (Methanolic extract of Cucumis melon seeds), HFD + 100 mg/Kg b.w. of MCMs and HFD + 200 mg/kg b.w. of MCMs. The experimental animals were anaesthetized and sacrificed after 10 weeks, and blood samples and heart tissue were collected for further analysis. Using the Graph Pad Prism version 5.0, the results expressed as Mean ± SD was tested using the one-way ANOVA to show intergroup differences, followed by Bonferonni ‘s post hoc test. The level of significance was determined atP ≤ 0.05.

Results

MCMs significantly (P < 0.05) reduced body weight, adiposity index, total fat mass, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), and total cholesterol (TC) compared with the HFD obese groups MCMs caused a significant reduction in the body weight, total fat mass, adiposity index, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), and total cholesterol (TC) when compared to the animals in HFD obese groups. Also, the Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), Castelli index and, malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in MCMs treated groups compared to the HFD obese group. The catalase, protein, and HDL levels were significantly increased in MCMs treated groups compared to HFD-obese animals. Expression of nitric oxide in the form of nitrite in the heart tissue significantly increased in the MCMs treated compared to the HFD-obese rats, with the majority of the positive results recorded at 100 mg/Kg b.w. of MCMs.

Conclusions

MCMs have anti-atherogenic and Cardio-protective properties on High Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Male rats via an antioxidant and nitric oxide-dependent mechanism. Further study is recommended to evaluate the molecular mechanisms to which these anti-atherogenic and cardio-protective actions can be attributed and exploit the GCMS result in the development of drug candidates.
Implementation of an antimicrobial stewardship program in the Australian private hospital system: qualitative study of attitudes to antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial stewardship
Authors: Ayton Darshini , Watson Eliza , Betts Juliana M. , Doyle Joseph , Teh Benjamin , Valoppi Glenn , Cotta Menino , Robertson Megan , Peel Trisha
Published: December 2022

Background

Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) is a key method to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In Australia, private hospitals have a higher rate of inappropriate prescribing and non-compliance with antimicrobial guidelines, yet this phenomenon is poorly described. Private hospitals make up 49% of hospitals in Australia, making it vital to understand AMS in this setting.

Methods

This study aimed to explore capabilities, opportunities and motivations for AMR and AMS with stakeholders at an Australian private hospital, and identify barriers and enablers 5 years post-implementation of an AMS program comparing with pre-implementation findings. A mixed-methods study was performed, involving three focus groups with stakeholders. All doctors, nurses and pharmacists at the hospital were invited to complete a survey on their experiences with and awareness of AMR, AMS and antimicrobial prescribing.

Results

Thirteen staff took part in the focus groups, 100 staff responded to the survey. Staff understood the importance of the AMS program, but active engagement was low. Staff felt more thorough feedback and monitoring could improve prescribing behaviour, but acknowledged difficulty in private hospitals in changing habits of staff who valued autonomy in making prescribing decisions. Half of respondents felt the current AMS restrictions should continue. Executive engagement may be needed to drive system changes across a complex network.

Conclusion

AMS awareness increased post-implementation, but staff remained sceptical of its benefits. Engagement and education of medical consultants regarding local benefits of AMS must improve. Enhanced understanding of feedback provision, methods for engagement, and advocacy from leadership will ensure success and longevity for the program.
Descriptive phenomenology study of the reasons for the low uptake of free health service package among type II diabetic patients
Authors: Amini-Rarani Mostafa , Karimi Saeed , Gharacheh Laleh
Published: December 2022

Background

Although several diabetes management and control programs are introduced in Iran, rate of using such cares in patients with Type II Diabetic in Ahvaz is low and they show no tendency for receiving free diabetes service package. The aim of this study was to identify reasons behind low uptake of free health service package among T2DM patients in Ahvaz, Iran.

Methods

This descriptive phenomenology study based on semi-structured guided interviews of patients with Type II Diabetic in Ahvaz, was carried out in the year 2021. Through purposeful sampling, 495 patients with diabetics who not received health services package more than 6 months were interviewed until the data saturation. The gathered data were analyzed through conventional content analysis.

Results

Reasons were categorized into three themes which include 13 subthemes and 57 codes. Themes included individual, accessibility, and structural factors. Besides, subthemes were lack of awareness, poor health literacy, adverse patients experience, difficulties to use services, verbal miscommunication cultural barriers, low trust, geographic barriers, time barriers, financial difficulties, lack of human resources, poor service delivery, and organizational factors were as barriers to participation.

Conclusion

Regarding individual level, there is a need for further training of diabetic patients. Besides, for accessibility and structural factors Iranian healthcare system needs a comprehensive integrated care for the management of diabetes, this underlines the collaboration for improving patients' uptake of free health service package.
Self-reported attitudes, skills and use of evidence-based practice among Swiss chiropractors: a national survey
Authors: Albisser Arlette , Schweinhardt Petra , Bussières André , Baechler Mirjam
Published: December 2022

Study Objectives

The high burden of disease associated with musculoskeletal disorders severely impacts patients’ well-being. As primary care providers, Swiss chiropractors ought to contribute towards identifying and using effective treatment strategies. An established approach is the full integration of evidence-based practice (EBP). This study aimed to investigate the attitudes, skills and use of EBP among Swiss chiropractors, as well as investigating potential facilitators and barriers for its adoption.

Methods and material

All 329 members of the Swiss Association of Chiropractic (ChiroSuisse) were invited in March 2021 to participate in this cross-sectional survey. Data were acquired anonymously online, using the Evidence-Based practice Attitude and utilization SurvEy (EBASE). The survey encompassed 55 questions measuring attitudes (n = 8, response range 1–5; total score range of 8–40), skills (n = 13, response range 1–5; total score range of range of 13–65) and use of EBP (n = 6, response range 0–4; total score range of 0–24).

Results

228 (69.3%) chiropractors returned complete EBASE questionnaires. This sample was representative of all ChiroSuisse members with respect to gender, age groups and proportion of chiropractic residents. Respondents generally held positive attitudes towards EBP, as indicated by the high mean (31.2) and median (31) attitude sub-score (range 11–40). Self-reported skills had a mean sub-score of 40.2 and median of 40 (range 13–65). Knowledge about EBP-based clinical practice had been primarily obtained in chiropractic under- or postgraduate education (33.8% and 26.3%, respectively). Use of EBP achieved a lower sub-score, with mean and median values of 7.4 and 6, respectively (range 0–24). The most commonly identified barriers preventing EBP uptake were lack of time (67.9%) and lack of clinical evidence in chiropractic/manual therapy-related health fields (45.1%).

Conclusion

Swiss chiropractors held favourable attitudes and reported moderate to moderate-high skill levels in EBP. Nevertheless, similar to chiropractors in other countries, the self-reported use of EBP was relatively low, with lack of time and lack of clinical evidence being the most named barriers.
Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes as a new therapeutic strategy in the brain tumors
Authors: Ghasempour Elham , Hesami Shilan , Movahed Elaheh , keshel Saeed Heidari , Doroudian Mohammad
Published: December 2022

Brain tumors are one of the most mortal cancers, leading to many deaths among kids and adults. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are available options for brain tumor treatment. However, these methods are not able to eradicate cancer cells. The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is one of the most important barriers to treat brain tumors that prevents adequate drug delivery to brain tissue. The connection between different brain parts is heterogeneous and causes many challenges in treatment. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) migrate to brain tumor cells and have anti-tumor effects by delivering cytotoxic compounds. They contain very high regenerative properties, as well as support the immune system. MSCs-based therapy involves cell replacement and releases various vesicles, including exosomes. Exosomes receive more attention due to their excellent stability, less immunogenicity and toxicity compare to cells. Exosomes derived from MSCs can develop a powerful therapeutic strategy for different diseases and be a hopeful candidate for cell-based and cell-free regenerative medicine. These nanoparticles contain nucleic acid, proteins, lipids, microRNAs, and other biologically active substances. Many studies show that each microRNA can prevent angiogenesis, migration, and metastasis in glioblastoma. These exosomes can—act as a suitable nanoparticle carrier for therapeutic applications of brain tumors by passing through the BBB. In this review, we discuss potential applications of MSC and their produced exosomes in the treatment of brain tumors.
Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy: challenges in clinical practice
Authors: Yang Hui , DeWan Andrew Thomas , Desai Mayur M. , Vermund Sten H.
Published: December 2022

Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) has been used widely during in vitro fertilization procedures in assisted reproductive centers throughout the world. Despite its wide use, concerns arise from the use of PGT-A technology in clinical decision-making. We address knowledge gaps in PGT-A, summarizing major challenges and current professional guidelines. First, PGT-A is a screening test and not a diagnostic test. Second, mosaicism is much higher in the blastocyst stage from PGT-A than had been recognized previously and a mosaic embryo may not accurately represent the genetic disease risk for future fetal disorders. Third, PGT-A was not validated clinically before use in patients; the best use of this technology for selected age-groups remains uncertain. Given these gaps, we believe that current professional policies relying on industry-self-regulation are insufficient. In the USA, the Food and Drug Administration may be the most appropriate agency to provide more definitive guidelines and regulations that are needed for better practice.
Molecular characterization and toxicity evaluation of indigenous Bacillus thuringiensis isolates against key lepidopteran insect pests
Authors: Gothandaraman Rajadurai , Venkatasamy Balasubramani , Thangavel Tamilnayagan , Eswaran Kokiladevi , Subbarayalu Mohankumar
Published: December 2022

Background

The indiscriminate use of synthetic insecticides is not affordable and poses collateral damage to humans, non-target organisms, and environmental health. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a cosmopolitan, antagonistic soil bacterium employed as an alternative to chemical insecticides in pest management. In this study, genetic diversity and insecticidal activity of 50 indigenous Bt isolates were investigated in order to find the effective Bt isolates with a broad spectrum of insecticidal activity against lepidopteran insects.

Results

Most of the Bt isolates investigated appeared as creamy white in colour and fried egg or mucoid-type colonies having a flat or raised elevation with entire or undulated margins. Out of 50 isolates investigated, crystal shapes varied from cuboidal (40.00%), spherical (36.00%), bipyramidal (30.00%), rectangular (10.00%), and minute crystal attached to the spores (28.00%). SDS-PAGE analysis revealed that the molecular weight of the crystal proteins of Bt isolates ranged from ~ 30 to ~ 200 kDa in size. Among the Bt isolates screened, ~ 135 kDa size representing Cry1 protein was observed in 12 isolates (24.00%) and 65 kDa representing Cry2 was observed in 14 isolates (28.00%). PCR analysis was performed for cry1, cry2, cry3, cry4, cry9, vip1, vip2, and vip3 genes, which revealed the presence of cry1 gene alone in 5 isolates, and cry2 alone in 7 isolates, whereas 7 isolates were positive for cry1, cry2, and vip3 genes together. None of the Bt isolates showed the presence of cry3, cry4, cry9, vip1, and vip2 genes. Toxicity of Bt isolates was tested against four species of lepidopteran larvae, viz. Plutella xylostella Linnaeus, Helicoverpa armigera Hubner, Spodoptera litura Fabricius, and S. frugiperda Smith. Among them, 6 isolates (T29, T30, T31, T357, T381, and T388) produced 100% larval mortality against all four species of insects.

Conclusion

The present study showed the diversity of Bt isolates and confirmed the significance of relentless exploration of Bt isolates for novel genes. Further investigations need to be carried out to disclose the hidden potential of these toxic isolates.
Predictive value of cerebral collaterals on CT angiography on the outcome of patients with acute anterior ischemic stroke receiving thrombolysis treatment
Authors: Darwish Esam Saad , Othman Mostafa H. , Youssef Ahmed Hamdy , Tawfik Ahmed Mamdouh , Tohamy Amal M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Functional outcomes of patient with acute ischemic stroke are influenced by the status of the cerebral collaterals. The study aims at evaluating the influence of cerebral collaterals on clinical and radiological outcome in patients with acute anterior ischemic stroke (AAIS) treated with IV recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (IV-rtPA).

Results

Independent predictors of good functional outcomes were in the form of low NIHSS (odds ratio = 1.23, 95%CI = 1.01–2.34, p = 0.01), ASPECT ≥ 8 (odds ratio = 4.56, 95%CI = 3.40–7.89, p < 0.001), and good collateral status by Miteff grading system (odds ratio = 1.23, 95%CI = 2.22–6.79, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Good collateral status is associated with milder stroke volume and good functional outcome. Also, low NIHSS, ASPECT score ≥ 8 and good collateral status by Miteff grading system were reliable independent predictors of favorable outcome in IV-rtPA treated patients with AAIS.
A prospective cross-sectional study assessing teaching of interventional radiology across 20 Australian medical schools, endorsed by the Australian Medical Students Association
Authors: Clements Warren , Zia Adil , Srinivas Abhishekh , Davis Jasmine , Goh Gerard S.
Published: December 2022

Background

Existing literature from around the world has shown that teaching of Interventional Radiology (IR) to medical students remains suboptimal. Despite calls for improvement at a “grass-roots” level, most IRs find that junior doctors have limited or no knowledge of IR, and thus reduced awareness of potential IR treatments for their patients or contemplating IR as a future career. The aim of this study was to survey current medical students to assess perception of whether a wider variety of medical schools are integrating IR into their curriculum, from universities all across Australia.

This was a prospective cross-sectional study of members of the Australian Medical Students Association (AMSA) from across Australia. Students were given a 14-question survey of current university teaching and students’ knowledge of the discipline of IR. The primary outcome was perception of current teaching and knowledge of IR. Secondary outcomes include awareness of technical, clinical, and other duties of IRs.

Results

Surveys were sent in a newsletter and posted on the AMSA Facebook page to their members. 82 responses were received via students from 20 out of 23 Australian medical schools. 61% of students described poor or no knowledge of IR. Teaching of IR was significantly worse than diagnostic radiology (p < 0.001), only 12% suggested that current IR teaching was adequate, and 99% suggested that IR teaching could be improved. Only 11% of students would consider a career in IR.

Conclusions

Medical student perception of exposure to IR is poor compared to diagnostic radiology. Better awareness may lead to improved referral patterns for patients and more career interest in IR.
Exploring a rhizobium to fix nitrogen in non-leguminous plants by using a tumor-formation root pathogen
Authors: Zhao Ying , Gao Lixia , Gao Zhixiao , Tian Binnian , Chen Tao , Xie Jiatao , Cheng Jiasen , Fu Yanping , Li Youguo , Xiao Shunyuan , Bisseling Ton , Jiang Daohong
Published: December 2022

Over 110 million tons of nitrogen fertilizer every year is used for crop production. Scientists have dreamed of enabling rhizobial nitrogen fixation in non-leguminous crops to mitigate the increasing demand for nitrogen fertilizer. However, despite decades of research, rhizobial nitrogen fixation in non-host plants has not been demonstrated. Here, we reported that an N-fixing rhizobium and a clubroot pathogen Plasmodiophora brassicae exhibited a synergistic effect on fixing nitrogen in cruciferous plants. Rhizobia were found to invade P. brassicae-infected rapeseed (Brassica napus) roots in the field. The colonization of rhizobium on rapeseed roots was confirmed by co-inoculating Mesorhizobium huakuii with P. brassicae under controlled laboratory conditions. M. huakuii infection could alleviate clubroot symptoms and promote the growth of diseased rapeseeds. M. huakuii could fix nitrogen in P. brassicae-infected plants based on the results of 15N isotope dilution tests. The expression of homologs of legume genes required for symbiosis and early-nodulin genes was significantly upregulated in Arabidopsis during early infection by P. brassicae. More importantly, M. huakuii could even fix nitrogen in P. brassicae-resistant rapeseed cultivar and promote plant growth when co-inoculated with P. brassicae. Our findings provide a new avenue to understand the interaction of rhizobia with non-host plants, stimulate the exploration of fixing nitrogen in non-leguminous plants by nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, and develop a strategy for both disease control and nitrogen fixation on non-host crops.
A case study of a novel summer bridge program to prepare transfer students for research in biological sciences
Authors: Zuckerman Austin L. , Juavinett Ashley L. , Macagno Eduardo R. , Bloodgood Brenda L. , Gaasterland Terry , Artis David , Lo Stanley M.
Published: December 2022

Undergraduate research experiences enculturate students into the research community by providing support networks to explore advanced professional opportunities. However, transfer students are at a considerable disadvantage for pursuing these opportunities due to the time constraints imposed by institutional structures. Here, we report a case study of a novel summer bridge program to prepare incoming transfer students for research experiences in biological sciences. During the summer, participants committed to full-time program activities, including hands-on training with laboratory techniques through research projects and designing and executing an independent project. Pre- and post-program surveys were administered, and participants reported substantial gains in research self-efficacy and knowledge of scientific career pathways. Participants also reported strong learning and social support in the program. After the program, 30 out of 32 participants secured positions in faculty laboratories, with most continuing on to positions in industry, graduate programs, or medical and health professions. In a post-program interview, participants reported many benefits from the program, such as mentorship from faculty, developing transferable skills and research interests, and an easier transition from community college to university. While descriptive, this summer bridge program could inform future design-based research and implementations in different institutional contexts.
Inspecting the corrosion state of underground reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Pfändler Patrick , Bircher Lukas , Angst Ueli
Published: December 2022

Unnoticed corrosion in underground reinforced concrete structural members – such as foundations, retaining walls, or piles – may severely threaten the integrity of structures. However, condition assessment of the ground-buried structural parts is challenging, because the areas of interest are hardly accessible for visual inspection or non-destructive testing. An example of particular practical relevance is reinforcement corrosion at the back-side of the lower end of cantilever retaining walls, near the construction joint between stem and heel of the base slab. The collapse of a cantilever retaining wall in Austria was a tragic reminder of the dangers of unnoticed corrosion. The drawback of current inspection methods is that they are laborious and costly, but still, only a tiny fraction of the structure can be inspected. Considering that the degree of corrosion can vary significantly along a structure, such local information includes a risk that corrosion elsewhere remains undetected.

A novel inspection system is proposed here, combining the well-proven half-cell potential measurement technique with steered horizontal underground drilling technologies. With this approach, a tailor-made probe is brought in proximity to the concrete surface in the soil and electrochemical measurements are performed to characterize the corrosion condition. The main advantage is that virtually the entire length of the structure can be inspected, thus overcoming the limitations of highly local inspection. Moreover, the proposed technique includes a method to constantly monitor the functionality of the potential measuring probe, based on electrical resistance measurements. The feasibility of the approach was confirmed in laboratory experiments on a mortar block in soil. These findings were confirmed in a field experiment. The results suggest that local corroding zones of practice-relevant size can be detected for a distance between the reference electrode and the steel surface of at least 25 cm. On the basis of this work, underground corrosion inspection of cantilever retaining walls is considered feasible, and the development of similar technologies as the one proposed here may in the future considerably enhance condition assessment of structures buried in the ground.
Xanthine oxidase inhibitory potentials of flavonoid aglycones of Tribulus terrestris: in vivo, in silico and in vitro studies
Authors: Ajala Olusegun Samson , Ayeleso Ayotomiwa Olubusayo , Owolabi Mbang , Akinleye Moshood Olusola , Ukpo Grace
Published: December 2022

Background

Despite the ongoing safety-driven spate of flavonoid xanthine oxidase (XOD) inhibition investigations, there is a lack of flavonoid-based uricostatic antihyperuricemic agents in clinical medicine. The poor pharmacokinetic profiles of glycosides (the natural form of existence of most flavonoids) relative to their aglycones could be largely responsible for this paradox. This investigation was aimed at providing both functional and molecular bases for the possible discovery of XOD inhibitory (or uricostatic) anti-hyperuricemic flavonoid aglycones from the leaves of a flavonoid-rich medicinal plant, Tribulus terrestris. To this end, the flavonoid aglycone fraction of T. terrestris leaf extract (FATT) was evaluated in vivo for antihyperuricemic activity in ethanol-induced hyperuricemic mice, monitoring serum and liver uric acid levels. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies were carried out on the three major flavonoid aglycones of T. terrestris (isorhamnetin, quercetin and kaempferol) against an inhibitor conformation XOD model. The three flavonoids were also subjected to in vitro XOD activity assay, comparing their IC50 to that of allopurinol, a standard uricostatic antihyperuricemic drug.

Results

FATT significantly lowered serum uric acid (p < 0.0001) and liver uric acid (p < 0.05) levels of the experimental animals, implying anti-hyperuricemic activity with uricostatic action mechanism allusions. Molecular docking studies revealed high binding affinity values (− 7.8, − 8.1, − 8.2 kcal/mol) for the aglycones (isorhamnetin, quercetin and kaempferol, respectively). Radius of gyration and RMSD analyses of the molecular dynamics simulation trajectories of the three aglycone–XOD complexes revealed substantial stability, the highest stability being demonstrated by the kaempferol–XOD complex. In vitro XOD activity assay showed kaempferol (IC50: 8.2 ± 0.9 μg/ml), quercetin (IC50: 20.4 ± 1.3 μg/ml) and isorhamnetin (IC50: 22.2 ± 2.1 μg/ml) to be more potent than allopurinol (IC50: 30.1 ± 3.0 μg/ml).

Conclusion

This work provides a scientific basis for the use of T. terrestris in the treatment of hyperuricemia-related (e.g. kidney stone and gout) disorders. It also provides the molecular basis for a focussed screening of the flavonoid aglycones chemical space for the possible discovery of flavonoid-based uricostatic anti-hyperuricemic drugs or drug templates.
Repetition and Value in Richard Wright’sMan Who Lived Underground
Authors: Jones Douglas A.
Published: December 2022

This essay considers how Richard Wright’s newly released novel, The Man Who Lived Underground (2021), offers a profound black existentialist rumination on suffering, alienation, pleasure, and aesthetic experience. Homing in on the novel’s use of figures of repetition and queries of the ontology of value, it reads how Wright makes way for modes of thought that, while scorned by normative aims and logics, produce new perspectives, habits, and, perhaps, avenues for individual fulfilment in an otherwise absurd world hostile to black life and personhood.
On (Not)Waiting for Godot: Absurdity and Action in Mississippi
Authors: McGinley Paige
Published: December 2022

This article traces the reinvention and circulation of existential thought and action through the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee in the first half of the 1960s, especially in Mississippi. Here, Fannie Lou Hamer, Bob Moses, and the founders of the Free Southern Theater, among others, immersed themselves in the existential questions of freedom and responsibility, pointing the way toward ethical action at a time when there was, as the characters of the FST’s production of Waiting for Godot put it, “nothing to be done.”
Yiddish Sexology
Authors: Weiman-Kelman Zohar
Published: December 2022

While much has been written about the pathologizing of Jewish bodies by European sexologists, and while the role of Jewish scholars in the study of deviance has been recognized, next to nothing has been written about how European Jews theorized their own sex, in their own deviant tongue. This article proposes to rectify this lack by turning to a completely neglected body of work: sexology written in Yiddish. Yiddish sexology, produced globally across the first half of the twentieth century, reveals an array of new imaginaries of corporeality and sociality, coming from diverse transnational Jewish communities and reflecting varying engagements with the emergent science of sex. This article focuses on the work of one doctor, Leonard Landis, working at the turn of the twentieth century in New York, who was by far the most prolific (and controversial) author of Yiddish sexology and yet remains entirely unstudied. Recovering his unique voice and exposing some of its intricate intertextual and cross-cultural dialogues, this article argues for the vitality of including Yiddish sexology within global histories of sexuality.
Understanding Rojava
Authors: Yesiltas Ozum
Published: December 2022

This study critically analyzes representations of Kurdish women fighters in US mainstream media from January 2014 to December 2018. The article argues that the narrative articulated through the presentation of Kurdish women in the US media as “badass” soldiers fighting against the violence and extremism of the Islamic State serves to eschew a deeper understanding of their political and ideological motivations. Although they do not fit into the stereotypical category of oppressed Muslim women in need of saving, Kurdish women too are the subject of misrepresentation in US media in ways similar to the monolithic and essentialized representations of Afghan women in the post-9/11 era or Iranian women following the 1979 Iranian Revolution. The present work questions why this misrepresentation takes place and what renders the representation of Kurdish women Orientalist despite its differences from the previous discursive constitutions of Muslim women in US media.
Child development with the D-score: tuning instruments to unity
Authors: Eekhout Iris , van Buuren Stef
Published: December 2022

The chapter familiarises the reader with an intuitive yet powerful methodology to tune instruments to a common unit, presenting a fresh approach that expresses measurements made by different instruments on the D-score scale. As a result, the reader may compare D-scores between ages, children or cohorts. It shows how to exploit common developmental milestones to bridge instruments and cohorts; presents an analysis to obtain D-scores from 16 cohorts and 14 instruments; compares D-score age-distribution across populations from four continents; suggests an indicator for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; and defines developmentally-on-track.
A single exposure to cancer misinformation may not significantly affect related behavioural intentions
Authors: Aftab Omar , Murphy Gillian
Published: December 2022

Background: In recent years, rates of online cancer misinformation have grown, with many concerned that this could lead patients to alter their daily behaviours or forego conventional treatment. However, no published study has investigated whether exposure to cancer misinformation can affect health behaviours or behavioural intentions.

Method: In this preregistered study, participants (N = 774) were exposed to cancer misinformation in the form of news stories before rating their intentions to engage in related behaviours. Each participant was randomly presented with two of four possible false cancer headlines such as “Drinking fluoridated water shown to increase cancer risk by a factor of 3”, before rating their intentions to engage in certain behaviours (such as avoiding fluoridated water). Participants were also randomly assigned to either an accuracy-nudge intervention intended to reduce susceptibility to misinformation or a control condition with no intervention.

Results: Viewing the fake cancer headlines did not significantly affect participants’ behavioural intentions – e.g., those who saw the headline regarding fluoridated water were not more likely to report intentions to reduce their fluoridated water intake. The accuracy-nudge intervention did not affect behavioural intentions.

Conclusion: Although cancer misinformation is considered a threat to public health, we conclude that once-off exposures to cancer misinformation may not be sufficient to significantly alter behavioural intentions. We note that claims about the effects of cancer misinformation on behaviour have not been adequately researched and we therefore call for more research into the behavioural effects of cancer misinformation exposure, particularly repeated exposure or information passed from trusted sources.
Nectarivore butterflies (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea) from an Urban Forest Fragment in Manaus, Amazonas
Authors: Cézar Kelve Franklimara Sousa , Vieira Rosamary Silva , Lourido Gilcélia Melo
Published: December 2022

Lepidoptera is a diverse and abundant group of insects, widely used in biodiversity and conservation studies, as it has great social appeal. From this perspective, this study was aimed to conduct a survey of flower – visiting butterfly species in Bosque da Ciência, at the Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia (INPA), an urban forest fragment open to public visitation in the State of Amazonas, Brazil. Thus, attractive plants for nectarivorous butterflies were observed, and the best location and conditions for viewing such diversity, as well as a guide for their identification was proposed. Forty-three species of flower – visiting butterflies were identified, among which Anthoptus epictetus (Fabricius), Ascia monuste (Linnaeus), Anartia jatrophae (Linnaeus), Eurema albula (Cramer) were observed to be more frequent. According to the species accumulation curve, the species richness of butterflies would be higher if greater collection effort were employed. The period of greatest flight activity and flower - visitation occurred from 9 am to 11 am. Of the six attractive plants identified, Stachytarpheta cayennensis (Rich.) and Lantana camara L. were the most visited, so we consider that these species are important for butterfly attractiveness. The butterflies of Bosque da Ciência are a representation of the nectarivores guild of the city of Manaus, Amazonas, and the establishment of an attractive butterfly garden in this place can contribute to the promotion of environmental education by stimulating the knowledge and awareness for biodiversity preservation.
Museari como recurso digital para activar el pensamiento reflexivo en estudiantado universitario.
Authors: Huerta Ricard , Soto González María Dolores
Published: December 2022

El presente trabajo es el resultado de una experiencia de aprendizaje desarrollada en el Grado de Maestro/a de Educación Primaria de la Universidad de Valencia. El objetivo es crear contextos de aprendizaje activos, dinámicos y transdisciplinares, en consonancia con el enfoque epistemológico de la formación de profesionales en el ámbito de la educación que busca la conexión entre la teoría y la práctica. Las materias de Educación Artística se crean como un proceso de aprendizaje donde la práctica se somete a una reflexión permanente, reforzada por un modelo activo de enseñanzaaprendizaje. La praxis implicada que se pone en marcha mediante Museari recalca el vínculo entre la experiencia concreta basada en la práctica y los conocimientos teóricos logrados. Con el objetivo de validar la práctica se pasa un cuestionario a 75 estudiantes. El alcance del diseño pedagógico de la actividad se convierte en un mecanismo transformador, mediante una perspectiva transdisciplinar de trabajo colaborativo. La intersección entre disciplinas proporciona la construcción de un enfoque multidimensional, necesario para aproximarse a los fenómenos y dificultades, discutiendo actitudes profesionales con el principio de integridad. Comprobamos como los estímulos que Museari ofrece al alumnado fomentan un proceso reflexivo, mediante experiencias con temáticas contemporáneas.
Las disidencias sexuales a través de filmes de animación.
Authors: Monleón Oliva Vicente
Published: December 2022

Las disidencias sexuales deben ser reconocidas como posibilidades válidas en un contexto plural en el que se insta en aceptar y respetar la diversidad. Por ello, debe generarse un discurso social que las reconozca e introduzca con normalidad en la normatividad construida. No obstante, desde las primeras edades de vida, se cuenta con la barrera del cine de animación que perdura unos cánones heteropatriarcales. Un ejemplo de ello son los productos de la compañía Disney. Partiendo de la tendencia a consumir de manera pasiva dichos filmes en las aulas de educación, se estudian de manera artística –en base a un posicionamiento queer–. Se analiza críticamente la colección “Los clásicos” (1937-2016) y parte de sus secuelas. Tras ello, los resultados se exponen de manera visual para mostrar una minoría de discursos y figuras LGTB que reconocen y que ofrecen visibilidad a dichas disidencias sexuales. Asimismo, para complementar la investigación se ofrecen otras alternativas audiovisuales como ejemplos defensores de dicha diversidad. Con todo, se comparten recursos artísticos con los que ofrecer una alfabetización audiovisual de calidad desde las primeras edades.