bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Can You Hear Me Now?” or the Need for Clear Messages
Authors: Brandfonbrener Alice G
Published: February 2021

Television viewers would agree that the level of creativity is often higher in the commercials than in the programming. My current favorite promotes Sprint by poking fun at a user of a cell phone service with a poor-quality signal, who places an order for 200 head of oxen and receives
instead 200 dachshunds, viewed stampeding around the corral. This has less to do with my admiration for Sprint and more with my personal devotion to dachshunds. The lesson on the importance of clear messages can be used in a larger context than cell phones, however. When messages are unclear,
for whatever reason, behaviors based on or motivated by them cannot be expected to have the desired results. In this editorial, I examine the importance of providing clear information to parents who are making even the first decisions concerning their children’s study of music and dance.
In a subsequent issue of MPPA, we will critique the relative clarity of communication about health and performance of a different sort, that from the many recent performing artists turned authors addressing their colleagues.
The Kinetic Characteristics of the Bow Arm During Violin Performance: An Examination of Internal Loads as a Function of Tempo
Authors: Visentin Peter , Shan Gongbing
Published: February 2021

Studies show that 43% to 66% of professional musicians need to stop performing for extended periods due to occupational injuries, often identified as overuse syndrome. Repetitive movement may be the mechanism of these injuries, but the identification of causal factors requires
quantitative research into the kinematic and kinetic characteristics of musical performance. The current study examines internal loads of the bow arm during a legato (smooth) bowing technique at a variety of tempos (speeds). Eight professional-level violinists participated in the study. A
nine-camera VICON v8i system was used to capture and synchronize upper body kinematics with sound and video. Using a 10-segment biomechanical model (head, trunk, upper arms, lower arms, hands, bow, and violin) and applying inverse dynamic analysis to the kinematic data, moments and forces
loading the joints (shoulder, elbow, and wrist) were calculated, revealing quantitative characteristics of the joint load. The results show that load can be measured in terms of quantity and quality, with quantity influenced by factors such as the string played and tempo
and quality defined in terms of the type of load (static, quasi-static, dynamic, fundamental, and impact) and psychological and physical constraints. Inverse dynamic analysis reveals that: 1) right shoulder loads vary in quantity and quality depending on the string played, whereas wrist
and elbow loads are independent of the string played; 2) loading may be divided into three discrete phases--increasing physical effort, optimization, and approaching physiologic limits; and 3) several factors contribute to impact loading, and tempo plays a dominant role. This is the first
study providing quantitative three-dimensional kinematic and kinetic information on the bow and on the bow arm, laying the foundation for further exploration of the causal factors of overuse syndrome and for the potential development of practices that might minimize these injuries.
Old Musicians Never Die: Issues of Aging in Orchestral Musicians
Authors: Brandfonbrener Alice G
Published: February 2021

Although in different contexts, many of us daily face aging-related issues that may concern ourselves, our families, or our patients, and all are complex. Issues of aging were the subject matter of three recent and very different conversations I had that were focused on a specific segment
of the aging population, symphony musicians.
Healthier music students: can medicine and music prescribe in concert?
Authors: Brandfonbrener Alice G
Published: February 2021

Understanding which musicians are most at risk for injury, how frequently injuries occur as well as why and when, and how to treat and prevent musicians’ symptoms is the bailiwick of so-called “music medicine.” Data to provide answers to these questions are limited,
although they are gradually growing in quantity, quality, and scope. As a result, there is a modest but increasing volume of data in scientific publications, along with a wider array of material in nonmedical publications. Much of the latter is written by musicians who themselves have a history
of playing-induced injuries.
Detecting Phase-Inversion Region of Surfactant-Stabilized Oil/Water Emulsions Using Differential Dielectric Sensors
Authors: Suminar Kurniawan S. , Gavrielatos I. , Dabirian R. , Mohan R. S. , Shoham O.
Published: February 2021

An experimental and theoretical investigation of surfactant-stabilized oil/water emulsion characteristics was carried out under water sweep (WS) and oil sweep (OS) conditions. Both hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfactants were used, with concentrations less than and more than the critical micelle concentration (CMC). Experimental data were acquired for detection of the phase-inversion region, which was measured simultaneously by several independent methods. These include a circular differential dielectric sensor (C-DDS), a rectangular differential dielectric sensor (R-DDS) (both sensors accurately detect the phase-inversion region), a pressure transducer, and a mass flowmeter.

The addition of an emulsifier surfactant to an oil/water mixture generated a stable emulsion, which resulted in a phase-inversion delay. For water-continuous to oil-continuous flow, a hydrophilic surfactant was a better emulsifier, while for oil-continuous to water-continuous flow, a hydrophobic surfactant was a better emulsifier for creating more stable emulsions.

The surfactant/oil/water emulsion resulted in an increase of the dispersed-phase volume fraction required for phase inversion, as compared to the case of oil/water dispersions without surfactant. For emulsions with surfactant concentrations above CMC, the presence of micelles contributed to further delay of the phase inversion, as compared to those with surfactant concentrations below CMC. The phase-inversion region exhibits a hysteresis between the OS and WS runs, below CMC and above CMC, which was due to the difference in droplet sizes caused by different breakup and coalescence processes for oil-continuous and water-continuous flow.

This research shows that the DDS is an efficient instrumentation that can be used to detect the region where the emulsion phase inversion is expected to occur. Moreover, the experimental results and the pertinent analysis and discussion provide useful insights for a more informed design of surface facilities (including emulsion separators) in oil and gas production operations.
Outcome of early stage Merkel carcinoma treated by exclusive radiation: a study of 53 patients.
Authors: DUBOIS Manon , Rached Henry Abi , Escande Alexandre , Dezoteux Frédéric , Darloy Franck , Jouin Anaïs , Kyheng Maeva , Labreuche Julien , Dziwniel Veronique , Mirabel Xavier , Mortier Laurent
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Early stage Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive primary skin cancer. The standard of care for MCC is broad excision and adjuvant external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). However, for some patients, anesthesia is contraindicated, while others run the risk of serious aesthetic sequelae. In such cases, exclusive radiotherapy is an interesting alternative to surgery. Though limited data is available, this study evaluates exclusive radiotherapy for MCC, using data from the largest retrospective study to date. Methods: All patients who were followed in our center between 1989 and 2019 for histologically proven early stage MCC were included in the study. They were treated either by surgery with a 2-cm clear margin followed by adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) or by exclusive RT. Survival rates with adjuvant and exclusive EBRT were analyzed using Cox model and Fine & Gray model depending on the type of survival. P-value < 0.05 was considered significant Results: Eighty-four patients treated for MCC were included. Fifty-three of them (63.1%) were treated by exclusive RT, and 31 (36.9%) had surgical excision followed by adjuvant RT. Local relapse rate was 13.7% (95%CI 8.0-43.7) in the RT monotherapy group (group A) and 25.8% (95%CI 10.3-56.2) in the surgery + RT group (group B) (p = 0.42). No statistical difference was found for nodal relapse (p = 0.81), metastatic relapse (p = 0.10), disease free survival (p = 0.83) or overall survival (p = 0.98). Conclusion: Our study suggests that exclusive radiotherapy for early Merkel cell carcinoma leads to a similar oncological outcome as combined treatment, with fewer aesthetic sequelae. The approach is interesting for elderly patients with comorbidities or patients for whom surgery would cause significant functional or aesthetic sequelae.
Direct and indirect evidence of efficacy and safety of rapid exercise tests for exertional desaturation in Covid-19: A rapid systematic review
Authors: Kalin Asli , Javid Babak , Knight Matthew , Inada-Kim Matt , Greenhalgh Trisha
Published: February 2021

BackgroundEven when resting pulse oximetry is normal in the patient with acute Covid-19, hypoxia can manifest on exertion. We summarise the literature on the performance of different rapid tests for exertional desaturation and draw on this evidence base to provide guidance in the context of acute COVID-19.Main research questions1. What exercise tests have been used to assess exertional hypoxia at home or in an ambulatory setting in the context of Covid-19 and to what extent have they been validated?2. What exercise tests have been used to assess exertional hypoxia in other lung conditions, to what extent have they been validated and what is the applicability of these studies to acute Covid-19?MethodAMED, CINAHL, EMBASE MEDLINE, Cochrane and PubMed using LitCovid, Scholar and Google databases were searched to September 2020. Studies where participants had Covid-19 or another lung disease and underwent any form of exercise test which was compared to a reference standard were eligible. Risk of bias was assessed using QUADAS 2. A protocol for the review was published on the Medrxiv database.ResultsOf 47 relevant papers, 15 were empirical studies, of which 11 described an attempt to validate one or more exercise desaturation tests in lung diseases other than Covid-19. In all but one of these, methodological quality was poor or impossible to fully assess. None had been designed as a formal validation study (most used simple tests of correlation). Only one validation study (comparing a 1-minute sit-to-stand test [1MSTST] with reference to the 6-minute walk test [6MWT] in 107 patients with interstitial lung disease) contained sufficient raw data for us to calculate the sensitivity (88%), specificity (81%), and positive and negative predictive value (79% and 89% respectively) of the 1MSTST. The other 4 empirical studies included two predictive studies on patients with Covid-19, and two on HIV-positive patients with suspected pneumocystis pneumonia. We found no studies on the 40-step walk test (a less demanding test that is widely used in clinical practice to assess Covid-19 patients). Heterogeneity of study design precluded meta-analysis.DiscussionExertional desaturation tests have not yet been validated in patients with (or suspected of having) Covid-19. A stronger evidence base exists for the diagnostic accuracy of the 1MSTST in chronic long term pulmonary disease, the relative intensity of this test may raise safety concerns in remote consultations or unstable patients. The less strenuous 40-step walk test should be urgently evaluated.
Genetic polymorphisms of Plasmodium falciparum isolates from Melka-Werer, North East Ethiopia based on the merozoite surface protein-2 (msp-2) gene as a molecular marker
Authors: Ali Hussein Mohammed , Assefa Ashenafi , Chernet Melkie , Wulataw Yonas , Commons Robert J
Published: February 2021

Background The characterization of parasite populations circulating in malaria endemic areas is necessary to evaluate the success of ongoing interventions and malaria control strategies. This study was designed to investigate the genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum isolates from the semi-arid area in North East Ethiopia, using the highly polymorphic merozoite surface protein-2 (msp2) gene as a molecular marker. Methods Dried blood spot isolates were collected from patients with P. falciparum infection between September 2014 and January 2015 from Melka-Werer, North East Ethiopia. Parasite DNA was extracted and genotyped using allele-specific nested polymerase chain reactions for msp2. Results 52 isolates were collected with msp2 identified in 41 (78.8%) isolates. Allele typing of the msp2 gene detected the 3D7/IC allelic family in 54% and FC27 allelic family in 46%. A total of 14 different msp2 genotypes were detected including 6 belonging to the 3D7/IC family and 8 to the FC27 family. Forty percent of isolates had multiple genotypes and the overall mean multiplicity of infections (MOI) was 1.2 (95%CI 0.96-1.42). The heterozygosity index was 0.50 for the msp2 locus. There was no difference in MOI between age groups. A negative correlation between parasite density and multiplicity of infection was found (p = 0.02).Conclusion Plasmodium falciparum isolates from the semi-arid area of North East Ethiopia are mainly monoclonal with low MOI and limited genetic diversity in the study population.
Drug resistance profile and clonality of Plasmodium falciparum parasites in Cape Verde: The 2017 malaria outbreak
Authors: Leal Silvânia da Veiga , Ward Daniel , Campino Susana , Benavente Ernest Diez , Ibrahim Amy , Andrade Tânia , Varela Isaías , Monteiro Davidson , Clark Taane G. , Gonçalves Luzia , Valdez Tomas , Lima Maria da Luz Mendonça , Silveira Henrique , Nogueira Fatima
Published: February 2021

Background Cape Verde is an archipelago located off the West African coast, and is in a pre-elimination phase of malaria control. Since 2010, less than 20 Plasmodium falciparum malaria cases have been reported annually, except in 2017, when an outbreak in Praia before the rainy season led to 423 autochthonous cases. It is important to understand the genetic diversity of circulating P. falciparum to inform on drug resistance, potential transmission networks, and sources of infection, including parasite importation.Methods Enrolled subjects involved malaria patients admitted to Dr. Agostinho Neto Hospital at Praia city, Santiago island, Cape Verde, between July and October 2017. Neighbours and family members of enrolled cases were assessed for the presence of anti-P. falciparum antibodies. Sanger sequencing and real time PCR was used to identify SNPs in genes associated with drug resistance (e.g. pfdhfr, pfdhps, pfmdr1, pfk13, pfcrt), and whole genome sequencing data was generated to investigate the population structure of P. falciparum parasites.Results We analysed 190 parasite samples, 187 indigenous and three from imported infections. Malaria cases were distributed throughout Praia city. There were no cases of severe malaria, and all patients had an adequate clinical and parasitological response after treatment. Anti-P. falciparum antibodies were not detected in the 137 neighbours and family members tested. No mutations were detected in pfdhps. The triple mutation S108N/N51I/C59R in pfdhfr and the chloroquine resistant CVIET haplotype in the pfcrt gene were detected in almost all samples. Variations in pfk13 were identified in only one sample (R645T, E668K). The haplotype NFD for pfmdr1 was detected in the majority of samples (89.7%).Conclusions Polymorphisms in pfk13 associated with ACTs tolerance in Southeast Asia were not detected, but the majority of the tested samples carried the pfmdr1 haplotype NFD and antimalarial associated mutations in the the pfcrt and pfdhfr genes. We performed the first WGS for Cape Verdean parasites that showed that the samples cluster together, have a very high level of similarity and are close to other parasites populations from West Africa.
Analysis of perovskite oxides etching using argon inductively coupled plasmas for photonics applications
Authors: Chen Guanyu , Cheung Eric Jun Hao , Cao Yu , Pan Jisheng , Danner Aaron J.
Published: February 2021

We analyzed the dry etching of perovskite oxides using argon-based inductively coupled plasmas (ICP) for photonics applications. Various chamber conditions and their effects on etching rates have been demonstrated based on Z-cut lithium niobate (LN). The measured results are predictable and repeatable and can be applied to other perovskite oxides, such as X-cut LN and barium titanium oxide (BTO). The surface roughness is better for both etched LN and BTO compared with their as-deposited counterparts as confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Both the energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) methods have been used for surface chemical component comparisons, qualitative and quantitative, and no obvious surface state changes are observed according to the measured results. An optical waveguide fabricated with the optimized argon-based ICP etching was measured to have − 3.7 dB/cm loss near 1550 nm wavelength for Z-cut LN, which validates this kind of method for perovskite oxides etching in photonics applications.
Effect of wearing a helmet on the occurrence of head injuries in motorcycle riders in Benin: a case-control study nested in a cohort
Authors: Santos Bella Adodo Hounkpe Dos , Ahanhanzo Yolaine Glele , Kpozehouen Alphonse , Daddah Donatien , Lagarde Emmanuel , Coppieters Yves
Published: February 2021

Background In Benin, motorcycles are the main means of transport for road users and are involved in more than half of crashes. This study aims to determine the effect of wearing a helmet on reducing head injuries in road crashes in Benin. Methods This case-control study nested in a cohort took place in 2020 and focused on road trauma victims. The sample, consisting of 242 cases (trauma victims with head injuries) for 484 controls (without head injuries), was drawn from a cohort of traffic crash victims recruited from five hospitals across the country from July 2019 to January 2020. Four groups of independent variables were studied: socio-demographic and economic variables, history, ²oural variables including helmet use and road-related and environmental variables. To assess the shape of the association between the independent variables and the dependent variable, a descending step-by-step binary logistic regression model was performed using an explanatory approach.. Results Fewer of the subjects with a head injury were wearing a helmet at the time of the crash 69.8% (95% CI = 63.6 - 75.6) compared to those without a head injury 90.3% (95% CI = 87.3 - 92.8). Adjusting for the other variables, subjects not wearing helmets were at greater risk of head injuries (OR = 3.8, 95% CI (2.5 - 5.7)); the head injury rating was 1.9 (95% CI = 1.2 - 3.3) times higher in subjects who were fatigued during the crash than among those who were not and 2.0 (95% CI = 1.2 - 3.3) times higher than in subjects with no medical history. Conclusion Failure to wear a helmet exposes motorcyclists to the risk of head injuries during crashes. It is important to increase awareness and better target such initiatives at the subjects most at risk.
Addressing Data and Methodological Limitations in Estimating Catastrophic Health Spending and Impoverishment in India, 2004-18
Authors: Mohanty Sanjay , Dwivedi Laxmikant
Published: February 2021

Background Estimates of catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) are counterintuitive to researchers, policy makers, and developmental partners due to data and methodological limitation. While inferences drawn from use of capacity-to-pay (CTP) and budget share (BS) approaches are inconsistent, the non-availability of data on food expenditure in the health survey in India is an added limitation. Methods Using data from the health and consumption surveys of National Sample Surveys over 14 years, we have overcome these limitations and estimated the incidence and intensity of CHE and impoverishment using the CTP approach. Results The incidence of CHE for health services in India was 12.5% in 2004, 13.4% in 2014 and 9.1% by 2018. Among those households incurring CHE, they spent 1.25 times of their capacity to pay in 2004 (intensity of CHE), 1.71 times in 2014 and 1.31 times by 2018. The impoverishment due to health spending was 4.8% in 2004, 5.1% in 2014 and 3.3% in 2018. The state variations in incidence and intensity of CHE and incidence of impoverishment is large. The concentration index (CI) of CHE was -0.16 in 2004, -0.18 in 2014 and -0.22 in 2018 suggesting increasing inequality over time. The concentration curves based on CTP approach suggests that the CHE was concentrated among poor. The odds of incurring CHE were lowest among the richest households [OR 0.22; 95% CI: 0.21, 0.24], households with elderly members [OR 1.20; 95% CI:1.12, 1.18] and households using both inpatient and outpatient services [OR 2.80, 95% CI 2.66, 2.95]. Access to health insurance reduced the chance of CHE and impoverishment among the richest households. The pattern of impoverishment was similar to that of CHE. Conclusion In the last 14 years, the CHE and impoverishment in India has declined while inequality in CHE has increased. We recommend the CTP approach when estimating CHE and impoverishment in low and middle-income countries.
Diabetic Emergencies presenting during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Case Analysis
Authors: Joseph Tobin , Crawley Eleanor , Qamar Sulmaaz , Zosmer Maya , Rayanagoudar Girish , Nethaji Chidambaram , Menon Ravi
Published: February 2021

IntroductionCOVID-19 has triggered a global pandemic and is an emerging situation. Diabetes has been associated with significant mortality in SARS and MERS- COV infections. Patients with diabetes are at risk of COVID-19 triggering diabetic emergencies due to known and unknown mechanisms. There is little evidence overviewing the clinical course of COVID19 patients who either present or have diabetic emergencies during their disease course. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective case analysis of all patients admitted to our hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. The inclusion criteria were all patients receiving treatment for COVID-19 and either presenting with a diabetic emergency on admission or developing an emergency during their admission. Data collected for the study were all routinely collected data as part of the admission. We compared this data to 9 patients with no COVID-19. Results30 patients received treatment for a diabetic emergency, of which 21 also received treatment for COVID-19. Significant differences were found between pH and bicarbonate on admission between RT-PCR positive and both RT-PCR negative and non-COVID-19 patients. Other results approaching significance include ALP and eGFR. DiscussionLittle is known about the metabolic disturbances COVID-19 has on diabetic patients. Further, prospective detailed investigation into biochemical processes is needed to elucidate underlying mechanisms that affect these patients’ outcomes.
Whole Transcriptome Analysis Resulted in the Identification of Chinese Sprangletop (Leptochloa Chinensis) Genes Involved in Cyhalofop-Butyl Resistance
Authors: Chen Ke , Peng Yajun , Zhang Liang , Wang Long , Mao Donghai , Zhao Zhenghong , Bai Lianyang , Wang Lifeng
Published: February 2021

Background
Chinese sprangletop [Leptochloa chinensis (L.) Nees] is an annual invasive weed, which can often be found in paddy fields. Cyhalofop-butyl is a specialized herbicide which is utilized to control L. chinensis. However, in many areas, L. chinensis has become resistant to this key herbicide due to its continuous long-term use.
Results
In this study, we utilized a resistant (LC18002) and a sensitive (LC17041) L. chinensis populations previously identified in our laboratory, which were divided into nine different treatment groups. We then employed whole transcriptome analysis to identify candidate genes which may be involved in cyhalofop-butyl tolerance. This analysis resulted in the identification of eight possible candidate genes, including six cytochrome P450 monooxygenase genes and two ATP-binding cassette transporter genes. We then carried out a phylogenetic analysis to identify homologs of the differentially expressed P450 genes. This phylogenetic analysis indicated that every genes have close homologs in pattern species, some of which have been implicated in non-target site resistance (NTSR).
Conclusions
This study is the first to use whole transcriptome analysis to identify herbicide non-target resistance genes in L. chinensis. The differentially expressed genes represent promising targets for better understanding herbicide tolerance in L. chinensis. The eight genes belonging to classes already associated in herbicide tolerance may play important roles in the metabolic resistance of L. chinensis to cyhalofop-butyl, although the exact mechanisms require further study.
Robust Metabolomics Approach For The Evaluation Of Human Embryos From In-Vitro Fertilization.
Authors: Figoli Cecilia , Garcea Marcelo , Bisioli Claudio , Tafintseva Valeria , Shapaval Volha , Peña Mariana Gómez , Gibbons Luz , Althabe Fernando , Yantorno Osvaldo , Horton Marcos , Schmitt Jürgen , Lasch Peter , Kohler Achim , Bosch Alejandra
Published: February 2021

The identification of the most competent embryos for transfer to the uterus constitutes the main challenge of in-vitro fertilization (IVF). We established a metabolomic-based approach applying Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) on 130 samples of 3-days embryo culture supernatants from 26 embryos that implanted and 104 that failed. Examining the internal structure of the data by unsupervised multivariate analysis, it was observed that the supernatants of nonimplanted embryos contained highly heterogeneous spectral features. These features were overlapping with metabolic-implantation fingerprints, thus demonstrating that in establishing embryo-assessment models a one-class modelling involving only the samples with positive-implantation outcomes should be applied. Analysis of variance confirmed that the women´s age (>40 years) undermined the implantation of the embryos exhibiting implantation metabolomics, and also that constituted a condition triggering embryos to express nonimplantation metabolomics. We conclude that IVF-success rates can be significantly improved if FTIR spectroscopy is used as an embryo-selection criterion.
Modeling of SARS-CoV-2 treatment effects for informed drug repurposing
Authors: Kern Charlotte , Schöning Verena , Chaccour Carlos , Hammann Felix
Published: February 2021

Several repurposed drugs are currently under investigation in the fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Candidates are often selected solely by their effective concentrations in vitro, an approach that has largely not lived up to expectations in COVID-19. Cell lines used in in vitro experiments are not necessarily representative of lung tissue. Yet, even if the proposed mode of action is indeed true, viral dynamics in vivo, host response, and concentration-time profiles must also be considered. Here we address the latter issue and describe a model of human SARS-CoV-2 viral kinetics with acquired immune response to investigate the dynamic impact of timing and dosing regimens of hydroxychloroquine, lopinavir/ritonavir, ivermectin, artemisinin, and nitazoxanide.We observed greatest benefits when treatments were given immediately at the time of diagnosis. Even interventions with minor antiviral effect may reduce host exposure if timed correctly. Ivermectin seems to be at least partially effective: given on positivity, peak viral load dropped by 0.3-0.6 log units and exposure by 8.8-22.3%. The other drugs had little to no appreciable effect. Given how well previous clinical trial results for hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir are explained by the models presented here, similar strategies should be considered in future drug candidate prioritization efforts.
Beyond Household Socioeconomic Status: Multilevel Modeling of Supply-Side Determinants of LPG Consumption among 5,500 Households in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Shupler Matthew , Mangeni Judith , Tawiah Theresa , Sang Edna , Baame Miranda , de Cuevas Rachel Anderson , Nix Emily , Betang Emmanuel , Saah Jason , Quansah Reginald , Puzzolo Elisa , Mbatchou Bertrand , Asante Kwaku Poku , Menya Diana , Pope Daniel
Published: February 2021

Household transition to cleaner cooking fuels (e.g. liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)) has historically been understood as an “energy ladder” with clean energy access resulting from improvements in household socioeconomic status (SES). Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of supply-side determinants in increasing clean cooking, yet few large-scale studies have assessed their significance quantitatively. As part of the CLEAN-Air(Africa) study, a population-based survey was conducted (N = 5,638) assessing cooking practices in peri-urban communities within Cameroon, Kenya and Ghana. Multilevel logistic and log-linear regression were used to assess socioeconomic and supply-side determinants of LPG usage (primary versus secondary fuel) and consumption (kilograms/capita/year), respectively. Supply-side factors (e.g. cylinder refill and transportation costs) and using single versus multi-burner stoves were better predictors of both the probability of primarily cooking with LPG and annual LPG consumption than household SES. These results suggest the need for policies promoting LPG access and stove equipment that meet household needs.
The Effectiveness of the Use of Augmented Reality in Anatomy Education: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bölek Kerem , Walsum Anne-Marie Van Cappellen van , De Jong Guido , Henssen Dylan
Published: February 2021

The use of Augmented Reality (AR) in anatomical education has been promoted by numerous authors. Next to financial and ethical advantages, AR has been described to decrease cognitive load while increasing student motivation and engagement. Despite these advantages, the effects of AR on learning outcome varies in different studies and an overview and aggregated outcome on learning anatomy is lacking. Therefore, a meta-analysis on the effect of AR vs. traditional anatomical teaching methods on learning outcome was performed. Systematic database searches were conducted by two independent investigators using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. This yielded five papers for meta-analysis totaling 508 participants; 240 participants in the AR-groups and 268 participants in the control groups. (306 females/ 202 males). Meta-analysis showed no significant difference in anatomic test scores between the AR group and the control group (-0.765%; P=0.732). Sub analysis on the use of AR vs. the use of traditional 2D teaching methods showed a significant disadvantage when using AR (-5.685%; P=0.024). Meta-regression analysis showed no significant co-relation between mean difference in test results and spatial abilities (as assessed by the mental rotations test scores). Student motivation and/or engagement could not be included since studies used different assessment tools. This meta-analysis showed that insufficient evidence is present to conclude AR significantly impacts learning outcome and that outcomes are significantly impacted by students’ spatial abilities. However, only few papers were suitable for meta-analysis, indicating that there is a need for more well-designed, randomized-controlled trials on AR in anatomy education research.
Facility and Resident Characteristics Associated With Variation in Nursing Home Transfers: Evidence From the OPTIMISTIC Demonstration Project
Authors: Blackburn Justin , Balio Casey P. , Carnahan Jennifer L. , Fowler Nicole R. , Hickman Susan E. , Sachs Greg A. , Tu Wanzhu , Unroe Kathleen T.
Published: February 2021

BackgroundCenters for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) funded demonstration project to evaluate financial incentives for nursing facilities providing care for 6 clinical conditions to reduce potentially avoidable hospitalizations (PAHs). The Optimizing Patient Transfers, Impacting Medical Quality, and Improving Symptoms: Transforming Institutional Care (OPTIMISTIC) site tested payment incentives alone and in combination with the successful nurse-led OPTIMISTIC clinical model. Our objective was to identify facility and resident characteristics associated with transfers, including financial incentives with or without the clinical model.MethodsThis was a longitudinal analysis from April 2017 to June 2018 of transfers among nursing home residents in 40 nursing facilities, 17 had the full clinical + payment model (1,726 residents) and 23 had payment only model (2,142 residents). Multilevel logit models estimated the likelihood of all-cause transfers and PAHs (based on CMS claims data and ICD-codes) associated wtih facility and resident characteristics using CMS claims data, the Minimum Data Set, and Nursing Home Compare. ResultsThe clinical + payment model was associated with 4.1 percentage point (pp) lower risk of all-cause transfers (95% confidence interval [CI] -6.2 to 2.1). Characteristics associated with lower PAH risk included residents aged 95+ years (-2.4 pps; 95% CI -3.8 to -1.1), dual eligible (-2.5 pps; 95% CI -3.3 to -1.7), advanced and moderate cognitive impairment (-3.3 pps; 95% CI -4.4 to -2.1; -1.2 pps; 95% CI -2.2 to -0.2). CHESS score above most stable (CHESS score 4) increased the risk of PAH by 7.3 pps (95% CI 1.5 to 13.1).ConclusionMultiple resident and facility characteristics are associated with transfers. Facilities with the clinical + payment model demonstrated lower risk of all-cause transfers compared to those with payment only, but not for PAHs.
Genomic fitness profiling of Acinetobacter baumannii reveals modes of action for common biocides and mechanisms of biocide-antibiotic antagonism
Authors: Li Liping , Short Francesca , Hassan Karl , Naidu Varsha , Pokhrel Alaska , Nagy Stephanie , Baker Stephen , Parkhill Julian , Cain Amy , Paulsen Ian
Published: February 2021

Biocides, such as antiseptics and disinfectants, are used ubiquitously for hygiene in households and for life-saving infection control in hospitals. An increasing concern is that the widespread use of biocides may contribute to the emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria. We performed transposon directed insertion site sequencing (TraDIS) to identify genes and key cellular pathways of the multidrug resistant nosocomial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii, that affect host fitness during exposure to a panel of ten structurally-diverse and clinically-relevant biocides: silver nitrate, benzalkonium, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), chlorhexidine, triclosan, chloroxylenol, polyvidone iodine, bleach, glutaraldehyde and ethanol. Multiple genes encoding proteins localised either in the cell envelope or in the cytoplasm were shown to affect biocide susceptibility. These proteins are involved in multiple processes including fatty acid biogenesis, multidrug efflux, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, cell respiration and cell division, suggesting that these biocides may have intracellular targets in addition to their known effects on the cell envelope. Based on the importance of cell respiration genes for A. baumannii fitness on biocides, we proposed and confirmed that apart from triclosan, the other 9 biocides at sub-inhibitory concentration can dissipate the membrane potential and lead to A. baumannii tolerance to antibiotics that have intracellular targets. Our results support the concern that residual biocides in clinical or community environments can promote the development of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria.
Regeneration and Genetic Transformation of Arabidopsis Pumila: An Ephemeral Plant Suitable for Investigating the Mechanisms for Adaptation to Desert Environments
Authors: Jin Yuhuan , Guo Li , Liu Danqing , Li Yongguang , Ai Hao , Huang xianzhong
Published: February 2021

Arabidopsis pumila is a type of cruciferous ephemeral plant, which in China mainly grows in the desert environments of northern Xinjiang. A. pumila not only has a short growth duration, but also has high photosynthetic efficiency, seed yield, salt tolerance, and drought resistance. It is an ideal species for the study of environmental adaptations in ephemeral plants. We induced callus tissue formation on the roots and hypocotyls of 8-day-old seedlings, and on the leaves and petioles of 4-week-old seedlings, and obtained multiple adventitious shoots on these tissues grown on Murashige and Skoog induction medium supplemented with 0.5 mg/L 6-Benzylaminopurine and 0.1 mg/L α-Naphthalene acetic acid. Young roots, hypocotyls, leaves, and petioles could all induce calluses, but the induction rate was highest on young roots. In addition, the leaves and petioles of 4-week-old seedlings were used as explants, the Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylic acid synthase gene 1 of A. pumila controlled by 35S promoter of cauliflower mosaic virus was used as target gene, and hygromycin B was used as screening antibiotic to explore Agrobacterium tumefaciens GV3101 mediated transformation. The results showed that the callus induction rate of petiole explants was the highest when they were treated with Agrobacterium suspension (OD600 = 0.6) for 10 min and thenco-cultured in dark for 2 d. The qRT-PCR results showed that the ApP5CS1.1 gene was overexpressed in the transgenic plants. These protocols provide working research methods for exploring the cellular level adaptative mechanisms of this species to desert environments.
The Untold Story of Late Effects: A Qualitative Analysis of Breast Cancer Survivors’ Emotional Responses to Late Effects
Authors: Rosenberg Jodie , Butow Phyllis , Shaw Joanne
Published: February 2021

Purpose Breast cancer survivors are at increased risk of adverse outcomes, called late effects, years after the completion of active treatment. Late effects can significantly impair physical functioning. The current study aimed to explore breast cancer survivors’ experiences, perceptions and concerns about late effects.Methods 36 women treated for breast cancer in the last 10 years participated in semi-structured telephone interviews. Participant views were sought with respect to knowledge, experience and perceived longer-term risk. A thematic analysis was conducted.Results Four themes emerged from the data: (1) late effects awareness, (2) framing and coping, (3) uncertainty and (4) management. There was a range of emotional responses to late effects however many participants reported being unaware of their risk of late effects. Participants conceptualised late effects as any long-term effect of treatment regardless of the time of onset. Women reported living with constant uncertainty and feared cancer recurrence. Many were focused on managing long-term treatment side effects, rather than late effects.Conclusion Many women undergo treatment and remain unaware of associated late effect risks. National guidelines recommend patients be informed about late effects however the results of this study suggest a gap between policy and practice. Evidence-based interventions are needed to equip women with strategies to physically and emotionally manage late effects.
Effect of Polaron Hoping on Electrical Properties of Magneto Electric Composites
Authors: Ramteke Avinash A , Chougule P.K.
Published: February 2021

Co0.7-xNixMn0.3Fe2O4 (CNMFO) ferrites with x = 0.00, 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15,PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3(PZT) ferroelectric and 30% CNMFO – 70% PZT magneto electric(ME) composites were synthesized by double sintering ceramic method. XRD confirms pure phase formation for all compositions of ferrite, ferroelectric and ME composites. All compositions of ferrites, ferroelectric and ME composites show negative temperature coefficient of resistance (NTCR) confirming the semiconducting behavior, though the conduction mechanism is quite different than known semiconductors such as, silicon and germanium. The conduction, due to electron hoping in semiconductors against polaron hoping in ferrites is explained. The effect of cation distribution on resistivity of ferrite phase is also discussed. Thus, effect of polaron hoping and cation distribution on resistivity and dielectric constant of ferroelectric and ME composites has been discussed. Effective resistance of ME composites due to combined resistance of the constituent phases has also been studied.
The Effect of Host, Habitat and Fasting Time on the Gut Microbiota of Amphibian
Authors: Tong Qing , Cui Li-yong , Hu Zong-fu , Du Xiao-peng , Wang Hong-bin
Published: February 2021

Wild animals entering captivity experience radical lifestyle changes resulting in microbiota alterations, in large part due to differences in diet. However, little is known about how external environmental factors influences the gut microbiota and the interaction of the environment-host-microbe interactions in host fasting. The gut microbiota in the early stage (amA and dyA groups) and late stage of hibernation in Rana amurensis and R. dybowskii of entering captivity (amL and dyL groups) and wild environments (amS and dyS groups) was determined, and the effects of host, environmental factors and fasting time on the gut microbiota were investigated via high-throughput Illumina sequencing. The Shannon index differed significantly between the amL and dyL groups and between the amA and amS groups. The PD index differed significantly between the dyL and dyS groups. Eight core OTUs were widely distributed between species, habitats and fasting times and were dominant in abundance. Captive and wild environments, host species, and fasting time significantly affected the composition and structure of the gut microbiota. Akaike information criterion (AIC)-based model results suggested that the environment and host were the variables that needed to be included in redundancy analysis (RDA) to explain the variance in taxa. The pairwise distances between the early and late stages of hibernation of were greater in R. amurensis and R. dybowskii entering captivity than in wild. The average of OTUs shared by early and late stages of hibernation of captive frogs was significantly lower than the average of wild frogs. These results can reveal the impact of environmental changes on the gut microbiota, thereby revealing the important interactions between environment-host-microbes, and helping to protect vertebrate hosts.
Availability and service provision of multidisciplinary diabetes foot units in Australia: A cross-sectional survey.
Authors: Vo Uyen Giao , Gilfillan Molly , Hamilton Emma Jane , Manning Laurens , Munshi Bijit , Hiew Jonathan , Norman Paul Edward , Ritter Jens Carsten
Published: February 2021

Background: With growing global prevalence of diabetes mellitus, diabetes-related foot disease (DFD) is contributing significantly to disease burden. As more healthcare resources are being dedicated to the management of DFD, service design and delivery is being scrutinised. Through a national survey, this study aims to investigate the current characteristics of services which treat patients with DFD in Australia.Methods: An online survey was distributed to all 195 Australian members of the Australian and New Zealand Society for Vascular Surgery investigating aspects of DFD management in each member’s institution.Results: From the survey, 52 responses were received (26.7%). A multidisciplinary diabetes foot unit (MDFU) was available in more than half of respondent’s institutions, most of which were tertiary hospitals. The common components of MDFU were identified as podiatrists, endocrinologists, vascular surgeons and infectious disease physicians. Majority of respondents (84.3%) identified vascular surgery as being the primary admitting specialty for DFD patients that require hospitalisation. This finding was consistent even in centres with MDFU clinics. Less than 20% of MDFUs had independent admission rights.Conclusions: Most tertiary centres in Australia provide their diabetic foot service in a multidisciplinary environment however their composition and function remain heterogeneous. The findings of this study provide an opportunity to evaluate current practice and, to initiate strategies aimed to improve outcomes of patients with DFD.
One large tree crown can be defined as a local hotspot for plant species diversity in a forest ecosystem: a case study in temperate old-growth forest
Authors: Azuma Wakana. A , Komada Natsuki , Ogawa Yuya , Ishii Hiroaki , Nakanishi Akira , Noguchi Yuiko , Kanzaki Mamoru
Published: February 2021

Large trees have survived for a long time, and their complex crown structure serves as habitat for epiphytic plants. Canopy plants are not as well studied in the temperate zones as in the tropics, because many of them are accidental epiphytes, epiphytic individuals of normally terrestrial species. We hypothesized that the canopy can serve as a refuge for terrestrial species that have difficulty establishing on the ground (e.g., insufficient light, over-browsing), promoting and conserving forest species diversity. Terrestrial species may also vary in their ability to adapt to canopy growth conditions. Here, we investigated canopy vascular plants hosted on a large Cercidiphyllum japonicum tree in a temperate old-growth forest, Japan. The canopy plant community was diverse with 39 vascular plant species, including 31 accidental epiphytes and six threatened, obligate epiphytes. High numbers of canopy plant species, including most accidental epiphytes, were found where multiple, large reiterated trunks as well as on large horizontal branches. Canopy plants leaves exhibited higher water use efficiency and higher nitrogen concentration compared to plants on the ground, but were controlled by transpirational water loss rather than by investing in leaf nitrogen with increasing height. We found at least 14 species could escape over-browsing by establishing in the canopy and may function as seed-sources for future re-colonization on the ground. Our results show one large tree crown can be defined as a local hotspot for current and future plant species diversity in a temperate old-growth forest, reinforcing its ecological value for conservation purposes.
GFRG Panels in Construction: A Potential Solution to Material Limitation
Authors: Salvi Snehal Ashok , Jadhav Vishal , Pate Nandini , Kamade Vaishali , Deshpande Janhavi , Chavan Aniruddha
Published: February 2021

There is a huge growing requirement of building materials in India due to the existing housing shortage of 24.7 million units mainly for the low-income groups in urban India. Use of rapid techniques for timely delivery of construction projects by adopting fast methodologies and alternate building materials is necessary in India, given the tremendous housing shortage. Further, the construction has to be affordable and also sustainable. The construction technique proposed in this project, by making use of Glass Fiber Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG) panels (with reinforced concrete infilled cavities) to build homes, promises such a solution for rapid affordable mass housing in India. GFRG building system is a rapid building technology composed of prefabricated wall panel load bearing system. GFRG is also an eco-friendly building material which can be manufactured out of either natural or industrial gypsum.