bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost-effectiveness of Telephone-Delivered Education and Behavioral Skills Intervention for African American Adults with Diabetes
Authors: Egede Leonard E. , Dismuke Clara E. , Eiler Christian , Williams Joni S. , Walker Rebekah J.
Published: April 2021

Purpose: Evaluate cost-effectiveness of a telephone-delivered education and behav­ioral skills intervention in reducing glycemic control (HbA1c) and decreasing risk of complications.Methods: Data from a randomized con­trolled trial, conducted from August 1, 2008 – June 30, 2010 and using a 2x2 factorial design delivered to 255 African American adults not meeting glycemic targets for dia­betes were used. Though the primary aim found no significant differences in HbA1c between groups, there was an overall drop in HbA1c across arms and differential cost. Primary clinical outcome was HbA1c measured at 12-months. Costs were esti­mated based on self-reported utilization of primary care, emergency, and other health care. Costs due to lost wages were calcu­lated based on self-reported days of work missed due to illness. The Michigan Model for Diabetes was used to estimate 10-year probability of developing congestive heart failure, cardiovascular disease, end stage renal disease, stroke, myocardial infarction, all cause death, and CVD death. Total cost per patient and clinical outcomes were used to estimate an incremental cost effective­ness ratio (ICER) using non-parametric bootstrapping.Results: ICERs indicated combined educa­tion and skills intervention was $3,630 less expensive than usual care to achieve a 0.6% decrease in HbA1c and was between $34,000 and $95,000 less expensive than usual care to reduce risk of complications. The knowledge only intervention was $661 less expensive than usual care and the behavioral skills only intervention did not indicate cost effectiveness.Conclusion: The combined intervention ICER for HbA1c is comparable to other education programs and the ICER to reduce the probability of complications falls below previously recommended long-term cut-off of $100,000, suggesting cost-effectiveness in an African American population.Ethn Dis. 2021;31(2):217-226; doi:10.18865/ed.31.2.217
Traversing Traditions: Prenatal Care and Birthing Practice Preferences Among Black Women in North Florida
Authors: Deichen Hansen Megan E. , James Brittny A. , Sakinah Inam , Brown Speights Joedrecka S. , Rust George
Published: April 2021

Objectives: Our goal was to explore prenatal practices and birthing experiences among Black women living in an urban North Florida community.Design: Non-random qualitative study.Setting: Private spaces at a convenient loca­tion selected by the participant.Participants: Eleven Black women, aged 25-36 years, who were either pregnant or had given birth at least once in the past five years in North Florida.Methods: Semi-structured interviews were completed in July 2017, followed by the­matic analysis of interview transcripts.Results: Four main themes emerged: a) decision-making strategies for employ­ing alternative childbirth preparation (ie, midwives, birthing centers, and doulas); b) having access to formal community re­sources to support their desired approaches to perinatal care; c) seeking advice from women with similar perspectives on birthing and parenting; and d) being confident in one’s decisions. Despite seeking to incorpo­rate “alternative” methods into their birth­ing plans, the majority of our participants ultimately delivered in-hospital.Conclusions: Preliminary results suggest that culturally relevant and patient-centered decision-making might enhance Black women’s perinatal experience although further research is needed to see if these findings are generalizable to a heterogenous US Black population. Implications for child­birth educators and health care profession­als include: 1) recognizing the importance of racially and professionally diverse staffing in obstetric care practices; 2) empowering patients to communicate and achieve their childbirth desires; 3) ensuring an environ­ment that is not only free of discrimination and disrespect, but that embodies respect (as perceived by patients of varied racial backgrounds) and cultural competence; and, 4) providing access to education and care outside of traditional work hours.Ethn Dis. 2021;31(2):227-234; doi:10.18865/ed.31.2.227
AZ ATTITŰDDEIXIS MŰVELETEI KÖZVETÍTETT MÉDIAESEMÉNYEK TÁRSAS VISZONYAINAK ALAKÍTÁSÁBAN
Authors: DOMONKOSI Ágnes , TOMESZ Tímea H.
Published: April 2021

A tanulmány televíziós és online közvetítésű díjátadó ünnepségek nyelvi elemzése révén annak bemutatására törekszik, hogy az attitűddeixis műveletei hogyan járulnak hozzá a társas viszonyok alakításához, a közönséghez való viszony jelzéséhez, illetve az esemény státuszának kommunikációjához. A kutatás során vizsgáltuk a megszólítások, köszöntések, bemutatások, önbemutatások változatait. Az elemzés igazolja, hogy az attitűddeixis műveleteinek összjátéka érzékenyen és dinamikusan képes érzékeltetni a helyzet formalitását, ünnepélyességét, az esemény közvetített jellegét, illetve a személyközi viszonyok bizalmasságát és a sportolói közösség összetartozását is.
MI TÖRTÉNT A JUGOSZLÁVIAI/VAJDASÁGI MAGYAR IRODALOMBAN 1918-BAN?
Authors: BENCE Erika
Published: April 2021

A kutatás a vajdasági magyar irodalomtörténeti diskurzus egyik legfontosabb, mindmáig érvényesnek tekintett alapelvét, az 1918-as kezdetekről alkotott axiómát járja körül. Az eredmények értelmezése és interpretációja számba veszi azokat az ideológiai behatásokat, történeti-poétikai hagyományokat és irodalomtudományi szemléleteket, amelyek nyomán és hatására az említett kanonizációs eljárások (a vajdasági magyar irodalomtörténeti szintézis, a jugoszláviai, majd a vajdasági magyar irodalmi lexikon létrehozása, könyvtörténetek és bibliográfiák megjelenése) a jugoszláviai/vajdasági magyar irodalom kezdeteit egy politikai konstrukció, az SZHSZ Királyság létrejöttének időpontjával kapcsolták össze.  A dolgozat bemutatja, hogy az irodalom alakulástörténetéről szóló modern felfogások milyen értelemben helyezték hatályon kívülre a jelölt történeti elképzeléseket meghatározó pozitivista és szubsztancialista módszereket, módosítva/rekonstruálva ezáltal a jugoszláviai/ vajdasági magyar irodalom létformájáról alkotott összképet. Mindeközben az értelmezés megőrzi a történeti hagyományok (például Bori Imre irodalomtörténeti víziója) kánonalkotó, előremutató és maradandó értékeit.
Historical aspects and organizational issues of deontology in dental institutions
Authors: Leonova Olga M. , Salnikov Alexander N.
Published: April 2021

A large number of works are devoted to the problem of medical ethics and deontology. They mainly consider the relationship between a medical worker and a patient, a medical worker and society. The issue of adherence to medical deontology and ethics between doctors is not often raised in the professional literature. We considered issues of relationship of the health worker and patient, the personal qualities of the doctor and moral installations defining his behavior; relations with colleagues and rationing the vocational and ethical field of medicine in the form of a vocational and ethical code. The key principles of bioethics are the following: the principle of humanism, professionalism, the scientific nature of medical interventions, self-criticism. Modern successes in the field of science and technology, the transfer of their results to medical practice have determined the relevance of the relationship between the doctor and the patient from the point of view of law, morality and religious beliefs. This problem area is the subject of biomedical ethics, the task of which is to solve ethical problems closely related to medical practice and biomedical research. We defined modern medical ethics through correlation with the bioethical model.
Sound Transmission Prediction of Sandwich Plates With Honeycomb and Foam Cores and an Emphatic Discussion on Radiation Terms
Authors: Zhang Tong , Kang Ludi , Li Xin , Zhang Hongbo , Liu Bilong
Published: April 2021

When applying the modal summation method to the sound transmission loss (STL) prediction of various plates, the assumption of the blocked sound pressure, or alternatively speaking, ignoring sound radiation terms, has obvious simplicity and is sometimes used for the single-layered panels, rib-stiffened plates or heavily damped sandwich plates. For light-weighted sandwich plates with honeycomb and foam cores, however, this assumption is somewhat in doubt and worth examining. Based on sixth-order differential equations governing the flexural vibration of sandwich plates, the prediction formula of STL is derived by the modal summation approach. Theoretical predictions were validated by measurement data. Next, the theoretical formula of STL under the assumption of the blocked sound pressure was examined. The STL discrepancies of sandwich plates caused by sound radiation terms are illustrated. It was found that the STL discrepancies of sandwich plates were closely related to frequency, reached their peak value at the coincidence frequency region. The results indicate that the sound radiation terms, or the couplings between the radiated sound pressure and the plate response, should not be ignored for the prediction of STL for sandwich plates with honeycomb and foam cores.
The addition of wine yeast Starmerella bacillaris to grape skin surface influences must fermentation and glycerol production
Authors: Nadai Chiara , Giacomini Alessio , Corich Viviana
Published: April 2021

Starmerella bacillaris is a non-Saccharomyces yeast recently proposed for grape fermentation in association with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Due to its high glycerol and moderate volatile acidity production this yeast can contribute to improving wine quality. Some strains have been demonstrated to exhibit antifungal activity against grey mould on grape, which is caused by Botrytis cinerea. The simultaneous presence of these traits in S. bacillaris is of great interest. Indeed, this yeast can be potentially used as a biocontrol agent in vineyards. Research on the ability of S. bacillaris to survive or, even to grow on the surface of grapes is a starting point in the evaluatation of its potential use in vineyards. The preliminary results of our study showed that when applied to the grape surface under laboratory condictions, inoculum sized S. bacillaris with antifungal activity developed and lasted for at least 6 days in high concentrations. In addition, it positively influenced the fermentation process by producing high concentrations of glycerol (average value 4.89 ± 0.47 g/L). Interestingly, a positive effect on wine quality was also observed when the inoculum size was 10 times higher or lower than the reference concentration. When sprayed on the vines in the vineyard and present on the grape skin surface after harvest, S. bacillaris cells can start alcoholic fermentation.
Cosmology with Variable G and Nonlinear Electrodynamics
Authors: Joseph Gabriel W. , Övgün Ali
Published: April 2021

In a bid to resolve lingering problems in cosmology, more focus is being tilted towards cosmological models in which physical constants of nature are not necessarily real constants, but varying with cosmic time. In this paper we have study cosmology in nonlinear electrodynamics with the Newton's gravitational constant $G$ not a constant but vary in form of power-law of the scale factor of the universe. The evolution of the scale factor $a (t)$ is studied in this model which depends on nonlinear electrodynamics fine tuning term of $\alpha$. Then we check the stability of the model using the speed of sound.
Dynamic Land Use Change Prediction and Analysis of Its Impacts on Streamflow for Dabus Watershed, Upper Blue Nile Basin
Authors: Mangel Neseredin Bashawal , Berhe Fitsum
Published: April 2021

Based on the recorded watershed characteristics, the future conditions on the basin system can be predicted using a different method. In this study, dynamic land-use change and its impacts on the streamflow for the Dabus watershed were predicted using ANN-CA based method. The model performance for accurate prediction of the future land-use change on the Dabus River watershed has been checked by validation of the simulated value with the actual value, hence the overall kappa value (k) = 0.83 for the simulated 2016-LULC validated with actual 2016-LULC. Then, 2026-LULC was predicted based on the 2004 and 2009-LULC. The streamflow for the case of 2004 and 2009-LULC has been simulated using the SWAT model. The value of NSE = 0.87 and 0.90 was attained during validation of simulated streamflow for 2004 and 2009-LULC data cases, respectively. The agreement of simulated value of streamflow with the observed data is indicated as R2 = 0.91 and 0.96 for 2004-LULC and 2009-LULC. The effects of the dynamic land-use change on streamflow for the predicted land use(2026-LULC) catchment were evaluated by T-test analysis. Hence, T-stat =0.04 and -0.002 in the case of simulated streamflow used 2004-LULC and 2009-LULC, respectively compared with simulated value using 2026-LULC.
Stabilization methodology in foundation soils by ERT-3D. Application in Estepona, South Spain.
Authors: Gutiérrez-Martín Alfonso , Yenes José I. , Fernández-Hernández Marta , Castedo Ricardo
Published: April 2021

The paper proposes a novel methodology for the stabilization of shallow foundations, with a simplified model combined with 3D Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT-3D) and conso- lidation injections. To determine its usefulness, the method has been applied in a case located in Estepona (southern Spain). The chosen tomography model is the dipole-dipole configuration, with an optimized distance between electrodes of 0.80 m for a better visualization of the foundation subsoil; with this parameterization, a total of 72 electrodes were installed in the analyzed case. In this work, the depth of the anomaly in the building's supporting subsoil was detected ranging from 2.00 m to 3.90 m deep. The study also delineates areas of high resistivity variations (50-1,000 Ω m) in the middle and eastern end of the field. These data have been validated and corroborated with a field campaign. The results of the ERT-3D monitoring are presented, once the investment data has been processed with the RES3DINV software, from the beginning to the end of the stabilization intervention. The novelty occurs with the interaction between the tomography and the foundation consolidation injections, until the final stabilization; very useful methodology in case of emergency consolidation, where there is a need to minimize damage to the building. Thus, people using this combined system; will be able to practically solve the initial anomalies of the subsoil that caused the damages, in a non-invasive way, considerably lowering the value of the resistivities.
The COVID-19 Pandemic: Effects on Civil Registration of Births and Deaths and on Availability and Utility of Vital Events Data
Authors: AbouZahr Carla , Bratschi Martin W. , Cercone Emily , Mangharam Anushka , Savigny Don de , Dincu Irina , Forsingdal Anette Bayer , Joos Olga , Kamal Montasser , Fat Doris Ma , Mathenge Gloria , Marinho Fatima , Mitra Raj Gautam , Montgomery Jeff , Muhwava William , Mwamba Remy , Mwanza James , Onaka Alvin , Sejersen Tanja Brøndsted , Tuoane-Nkhasi Maletela , Sferrazza Lynn , Setel Philip
Published: April 2021

The complex and evolving picture of COVID-19–related mortality highlights the need for data to guide the response. Yet many countries are struggling to maintain their data systems, including the civil registration system, which is the foundation for detailed and continuously available mortality statistics. We conducted a search of country and development agency Web sites and partner and media reports describing disruptions to the civil registration of births and deaths associated with COVID-19 related restrictions.

We found considerable intercountry variation and grouped countries according to the level of disruption to birth and particularly death registration. Only a minority of the 66 countries were able to maintain service continuity during the COVID-19 restrictions. In the majority, a combination of legal and operational challenges resulted in declines in birth and death registration. Few countries established business continuity plans or developed strategies to deal with the backlog when restrictions are lifted.

Civil registration systems and the vital statistics they generate must be strengthened as essential services during health emergencies and as core components of the response to COVID-19.
Stay-at-Home Orders, Mobility Patterns, and Spread of COVID-19
Authors: Murray Tim
Published: April 2021

Objectives. To understand how stay-at-home orders changed mobility patterns and influenced the spread of COVID-19.

Methods. I merged 2020 data from the Virginia Department of Health, Google Mobility Reports, and the US Census to estimate a series of 2-way fixed-effect event-study regression models.

Results. A stay-at-home order caused people to increase the amount of time spent at home by 12 percentage points and decrease the time the spent at work by 30 percentage points, retail and recreation venues by 40 percentage points, and grocery stores and pharmacies by 10 percentage points. People did not sustain changes in mobility and gradually returned to prepandemic levels before the stay-at-home order was lifted. In areas where people spent the most time at indoor locations, there was a large increase in COVID-19.

Conclusions. A more robust and stricter policy response coordinated at the national level combined with a strong economic response from policymakers could have increased the effectiveness of the stay-at-home order.
A Spatiotemporal Tool to Project Hospital Critical Care Capacity and Mortality From COVID-19 in US Counties
Authors: Zebrowski Alexis , Rundle Andrew , Pei Sen , Yaman Tonguc , Yang Wan , Carr Brendan G. , Sims Sarah , Doorley Ronan , Schluger Neil , Quinn James W. , Shaman Jeffrey , Branas Charles C.
Published: April 2021

Objectives. To create a tool to rapidly determine where pandemic demand for critical care overwhelms county-level surge capacity and to compare public health and medical responses.

Methods. In March 2020, COVID-19 cases requiring critical care were estimated using an adaptive metapopulation SEIR (susceptible‒exposed‒infectious‒recovered) model for all 3142 US counties for future 21-day and 42-day periods from April 2, 2020, to May 13, 2020, in 4 reactive patterns of contact reduction—0%, 20%, 30%, and 40%—and 4 surge response scenarios—very low, low, medium, and high.

Results. In areas with increased demand, surge response measures could avert 104 120 additional deaths—55% through high clearance of critical care beds and 45% through measures such as greater ventilator access. The percentages of lives saved from high levels of contact reduction were 1.9 to 4.2 times greater than high levels of hospital surge response. Differences in projected versus actual COVID-19 demands were reasonably small over time.

Conclusions. Nonpharmaceutical public health interventions had greater impact in minimizing preventable deaths during the pandemic than did hospital critical care surge response. Ready-to-go spatiotemporal supply and demand data visualization and analytics tools should be advanced for future preparedness and all-hazards disaster response.
COVID-19 and the Drug Overdose Crisis: Uncovering the Deadliest Months in the United States, January‒July 2020
Authors: Friedman Joseph , Akre Samir
Published: April 2021

Objectives. To determine the magnitude of increases in monthly drug-related overdose mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States.

Methods. We leveraged provisional records from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provided as rolling 12-month sums, which are helpful for smoothing, yet may mask pandemic-related spikes in overdose mortality. We cross-referenced these rolling aggregates with previous monthly data to estimate monthly drug-related overdose mortality for January through July 2020. We quantified historical errors stemming from reporting delays and estimated empirically derived 95% prediction intervals (PIs).

Results. We found that 9192 (95% PI = 8988, 9397) people died from drug overdose in May 2020—making it the deadliest month on record—representing a 57.7% (95% PI = 54.2%, 61.2%) increase over May 2019. Most states saw large-magnitude increases, with the highest in West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. We observed low concordance between rolling 12-month aggregates and monthly pandemic-related shocks.

Conclusions. Unprecedented increases in overdose mortality occurred during the pandemic, highlighting the value of presenting monthly values alongside smoothed aggregates for detecting shocks.

Public Health Implications. Drastic exacerbations of the US overdose crisis warrant renewed investments in overdose surveillance and prevention during the pandemic response and postpandemic recovery efforts.
Exploring the use of self-assessment to facilitate health students’ generic skills development
Authors: Sarkar Mahbub , Gibson Simone , Karim Nazmul , Rhys-Jones Dakota , Ilic Dragan
Published: April 2021

Employability skills for health graduates, and many disciplines within higher education, are considered vital to maximising their capacity to cope with the rapidly changing, uncertain and highly competitive labour market. Despite the increasing importance of developing generic skills for employability, there is a dearth of knowledge about how to support health students to develop generic skills as part of their formal education. The main objective of this two-phase study was to engage health students in the process of self-assessment of their generic skills and explore the potential of this process to facilitate their generic skills development. The first phase of this study engaged students in completing a self- assessment questionnaire, incorporating a validated set of industry-demanded skills with associated behaviours. In the second phase a subsection of respondents participated in focus group interviews that explored their perception of the self-assessment process in generic skills development. Students viewed themselves as having some capabilities to perform the generic skills, as well as their university studies contributing to the development of these skills. The qualitative data found that the self-assessment process prompted students to reflect on their abilities and further engage with developing these skills. This study supports the evidence for contextualising and embedding a process of self-assessment of generic skills into the formal curricula to help better prepare health students for their future work.
Fabrication of PDMS-based Acoustofluidic Devices for 3D Access to Single Cells and Small Organisms
Authors: Läubli Nino F. , Nelson Bradley J.
Published: April 2021

Acoustofluidic manipulation has demonstrated significant potential for the investigation and handling of small organisms. In this protocol, we describe the steps required for the fabrication of a PDMS-based device with 150 um high structures to be used for the rotational manipulation of single cells and small organisms.
Single-Chip Two Antennas for MM-Wave Self-Powering and Implantable Biomedical Devices
Authors: Elsheakh Dalia , Kayed Somaya I , Shawkey Heba
Published: April 2021

Implantable biomedical applications arise the need for multi-band sensors with a wideband frequency channel for RF energy harvesting operation. Using a separate antenna for energy harvesting can simplify device circuit complexity and reduces operation frequency bands interference. This paper demonstrates the design of single chip with two separate integrated antennas for implantable biomedical applications. The two antennas have different structures with orthogonal polarization to achieve low mutual coupling and negligible interaction between them. The first antenna is a multi-band meander line (MBML) designed for multiple channels data communication, with quad operating bands in the MM-wave range from 22-64 GHz with area 1150 × 200μm2. The second antenna is a wideband dipole antenna (WBDA) for RF energy harvesting, operates in the frequency range extend from 28 GHz to 36 GHz with area 1300×250μm2. The proposed antennas are designed by using high frequency structure simulator (HFSS) and fabricated by using UMC180nm CMOS technology with total area 0.55 mm2. The MBML frequency bands operating bandwidths can reach 2 GHz at impedance bandwidth ≤ -10 dB. While, the WBDA antenna has gain -2 dB over the operating band extend from 28 GHz up to 36 GHz. The antenna performance is simulated separately and using the human-body phantom model that describes layers of fats inside body, and shows their compatibility for in body operation. Die measurements is performed using on wafer-probing RF PICOBROBES and shows the matching between simulation and measurement values.
Identification and Development of KASP Markers for Novel Mutant BnFAD2 Alleles Associated with Elevated Oleic Acid in Brassica napus
Authors: Fu Ying , Mason Annaliese S. , Zhang Yaofeng , Yu Huasheng
Published: April 2021

The fatty acid desaturase FAD2 genes are the main contributors to oleic acid content, and different FAD2 alleles can result in different oleic acid contents in rapeseed oil. Hence, identification of allelic variation in FAD2 is an extremely desirable breeding goal. By performing QTL mapping using 190 F2:3 lines genotyped by genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers assayed by the Brassica 60 K Infinium BeadChip Array, four quantitative trait loci (QTL) for C18:1 content were mapped on chromosomes A01, A05, A09 and C05 over three years in a population segregating for oleic acid content. Two BnFAD2 genes on A05 and C05 were anchored within the QTL intervals, explaining 45–52% and 15–44% of the observed variation for C18:1 content. Sequence polymorphisms between the corresponding coding regions of the parental lines found two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in BnFAD2.A05 and BnFAD2.C05, respectively, which led to the amino acid changes (C421T and G1073E) in the corresponding proteins. The mutation sites of Bnfad2.A05 and Bnfad2.C05 alleles were located within the second H-box and near the third H-box motif of the protein, respectively, and were found to be novel mutant alleles. Lines resulting from the combination of these two alleles contained up to 88% oleic acid in their seed oil, compared with 63% in wild-type controls. Two competitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers based on these two mutation sites were successfully developed and validated in segregating F2 populations. These markers will facilitate breeding for ultra-high seed oleic acid content in oilseed rape.
Effect of self-quarantine due to COVID-19 on low back and leg symptoms in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: Hayashi Kazunori , Tanaka Toru , Ebara Tsuneyuki , Sakawa Akira , Tanaka Hidekazu , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: April 2021

The effect of self-quarantine and avoiding non-essential outings due to COVID-19 on the symptoms of patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) remains unknown. In this prospective study, patients with LSS who self-quarantined from baseline (SQ group; 80 patients) were matched to controls who did not self-quarantine (non-SQ group: 60 patients), based on age, gender, medication, activities of daily living (ADL), and low back symptoms. The change in low back symptoms, ADL, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) between baseline and follow-up (after self-quarantine periods) were compared between the groups. Compared to baseline, the NRS score for low back pain at follow-up in SQ group significantly improved, but not in non-SQ group. No significant difference was found regarding changes in leg pain or numbness. Low back pain improvement did not lead to ADL improvement. The Short Form 12 evaluation revealed the role/social component score in SQ group to be lower than that in non-SQ group at follow-up; no difference was found for the physical or mental components. This study revealed self-quarantine with conservative treatment accompanied short-term low back pain improvement in patients with LSS. It might help to understand the situation in the spine department during the COVID-19 pandemic.
An Efficient Classification of Intrusion in Bigdata based on Chaos Game Optimization and Ensemble SVM
Authors: Ponmalar A , Dhanakoti V
Published: April 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Effects of worldwide interventions and vaccination on COVID-19 between waves and countries
Authors: Ge Yong , Zhang Wenbin , Liu Haiyan , Ruktanonchai Corrine W , Hu Maogui , Wu Xilin , Song Yongze , Ruktanonchai Nick , Yan Wei , Feng Luzhao , Li Zhongjie , Yang Weizhong , Liu Mengxiao , Tatem Andrew , Lai Shengjie
Published: April 2021

Worldwide governments have rapidly deployed non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic, together with the large-scale rollout of vaccines since late 2020. However, the effect of these individual NPI and vaccination measures across space and time has not been sufficiently explored. By the decay ratio in the suppression of COVID-19 infections, we investigated the performance of different NPIs across waves in 133 countries, and their integration with vaccine rollouts in 63 countries as of 25 March 2021. The most effective NPIs were gathering restrictions (contributing 27.83% in the infection rate reductions), facial coverings (16.79%) and school closures (10.08%) in the first wave, and changed to facial coverings (30.04%), gathering restrictions (17.51%) and international travel restrictions (9.22%) in the second wave. The impact of NPIs had obvious spatiotemporal variations across countries by waves before vaccine rollouts, with facial coverings being one of the most effective measures consistently. Vaccinations had gradually contributed to the suppression of COVID-19 transmission, from 0.71% and 0.86% within 15 days and 30 days since Day 12 after vaccination, to 1.23% as of 25 March 2021, while NPIs still dominated the pandemic mitigation. Our findings have important implications for continued tailoring of integrated NPI or NPI-vaccination strategies against future COVID-19 waves or similar infectious diseases.
Outcomes of COVID-19 Patients Intubated After Failure of Non-Invasive Ventilation: A Multicenter Observational Study.
Authors: Boscolo Annalisa , Pasin Laura , Sella Nicolò , Pretto Chiara , Tocco Martina , Tamburini Enrico , Rosi Paolo , Polati Enrico , Donadello Katia , Gottin Leonardo , Vianello Andrea , Landoni Giovanni , Navalesi Paolo
Published: April 2021

IntroductionThe efficacy of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in acute respiratory failure secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection remains controversial. Current literature mainly examined efficacy, safety and potential predictors of NIV failure provided out of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). On the contrary, the outcomes of ICU patients, intubated after NIV failure, remain to be explored. The aims of the present study are: 1) investigating in-hospital mortality in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) ICU patients receiving endotracheal intubation after NIV failure and 2) assessing whether the length of NIV application affects patient survival. MethodsThis observational multicenter study included all consecutive COVID-19 adult patients, admitted into the twenty-five ICUs of the COVID-19 VENETO ICU network (February-April 2020), who underwent endotracheal intubation after NIV failure. ResultsAmong the 704 patients admitted to ICU during the study period, 280 (40%) presented the inclusion criteria and were enrolled. The median age was 69 [60-76] years; 219 patients (78%) were male. In-hospital mortality was 43%. Only the length of NIV application before ICU admission (OR 2.03 (95% CI 1.06 - 4.98), p = 0.03) and age (OR 1.18 (95% CI 1.04 - 1.33), p < 0.01) were identified as independent risk factors of in-hospital mortality; whilst the length of NIV after ICU admission did not affect patient outcome. ConclusionsIn-hospital mortality of ICU patients intubated after NIV failure was 43%. Days on NIV before ICU admission and age were assessed to be potential risk factors of greater in-hospital mortality.
Removal of chlortetracycline from water by immobilized Bacillus subtilis on honeysuckle residue derived biochar
Authors: Zhang Sinan , Wang Jihong
Published: April 2021

Biochar-immobilized microorganism technology is an effective way to remove antibiotic contamination in aqueous solutions. In this study, the effect and mechanism of immobilization of Bacillus subtilis by honeysuckle residue derived biochar for the removal of chlortetracycline(CTC) were investigated using corn straw biochar as a control. The biochar's structural characteristics and properties were determined using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometer, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, specific surface area and pore size analyzer. It was found that honeysuckle residue derived biochar had a well-developed pore structure, which provided adequate living space for microorganisms. The removal rate of CTC (50 mg/L) by honeysuckle residue biochar-microbial complex(HBCM) was 15.31% higher than that of corn straw biochar-microbial complex, indicating that HBCM was an excellent carrier. The mechanism of CTC removal by HBCM was a synergistic effect of biochar adsorption and microbial degradation. The removal process of HBCM material was carried out for 3 days at an optimum substrate concentration of 50 mg/L, ambient temperature of 35°C, solution pH of 7 and the addition of 5 g/L complexes, achieving a removal rate of 78.35%. In addition, the complex possessed high storage stability and could be reused three times continuously and efficiently. This study provides a method for preparing an efficient biochar-microbial complex using Chinese medicine residue waste substrate, which provides a new idea for removing CTC from water.
An Economic Assessment of the Contributions of 5G into the Railways and Energy Sectors
Authors: Corujo Daniel Nunes , Quevedo José , Aguiar Rui , Paixão Paulo , Martins Hugo , Gomes Álvaro
Published: April 2021

This paper presents an economical assessment of the benefits of introducing 5G technologies into pilot use cases pertaining to the railroad transportation and energy sectors. For each of the pilots, undergone by EFACEC Engenharia e Sistemas and EFACEC Energia, respectively, under the scope of the H2020 5Growth project, evaluates the expenditure and benefits expected from introducing 5G capabilities over their on-going operations. This evaluation is expressed regarding the Portugal case, and are also scaled to assess the European-wide case. The main objective of the study summarized in this paper is to understand if solutions proposed by the H2020 5Growth project, and 5G as a whole, are also advantageous from an economic point of view. The results of the techno-economic analysis reported in this paper show, on a European scale, millions of euros saved by the different stakeholders involved in the deployment of 5G solutions.
Transcutaneous or Transconjunctival Botulinum Toxin Injection for Thyroid Eye Disease Associated Upper Lid Retraction
Authors: Chow Sharon She Wan , Chow Loraine Lok Wan , Cheung Janice
Published: April 2021

BackgroundBotulinum toxin (BTA) injection has been a standard treatment for thyroid eye disease (TED) related upper lid retraction (ULR), however, currently there is no consensus regarding the method of injection. Both transcutaneous (TC) and transconjunctival (TJ) injection of BTA has been reported to be successful. The aim of this study is to compare the changes between the lid parameters, the rate of complications and the difference in pain scores between the two groups.MethodA randomized controlled trial was carried out between 09/2017- 07/2019. 22 lids were randomized into either TC and TJ injection. Patients were blinded to receive either 2.5u of TC or TJ BTA injections and were followed up at 1, 3 and 6 months post injection by a masked investigator.Results12 and 10 lids were assigned ot the TC and TJ group respectively. At 1 month, the changes of PA were significant in the TJ group (-3.6±0.9, p=0.001), while the changes of MRD1 were significant in both groups (TC group: -1.67±1.74 (p=0.02), TJ group: -2.60±0.89 (p=0.003)). At 3 months, the change of MRD2 was only significant in the TJ group (-1.00±0.71, p=0.034). However, at 6 months, all lid parameter changes from baseline and between 2 groups were statistically insignificant. TC group had a significantly lower (-1.40±1.51, p=0.016) pain score. There was 1 case of diplopia and 1 case of ptosis in the TC group, while there were 2 cases of ptosis in the TJ group. ConclusionAt 1 month, the PA in the TJ group and the MRD1 in both groups showed statistically significant changes. At 3 months, the TJ group showed statistically significant changes in MRD2. The pain scores were significantly lower in the TC group. Although at 6 months, there were statistically insignificant changes between the 2 groups, the TJ group showed more promising results in 1 and 3 months, and the TC group has less pain. Hence, we hope to draw a consensus in the treatment of TED associated ULR by recommending the transconjunctival approach for BTA injections, however, we should expect it to be a more painful procedure. Trial registrationName of registry: HKU Clinical Trial Registry (HKUCTR)Trial registration number: HKUCTR-2306Date of registration: 08 Dec 2017URL of trial registry record: http://www.hkuctr.com/Investigator/Update/876c13c77a1a429e9283423b2d412ee1
Anti-Proliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Activities of Hederacolchiside A1 On MCF-7 Cells Via ROS Regulation and JAK2/STAT3 Inactivation
Authors: Chen Aijun , Zhang Shushu , Zhang Dandan , Hu Xingjiang , Xu Nana , Li Jichen , Zhang Qiao , Lu Jincai , Wu Xia
Published: April 2021

Many studies have shown that hederacolchiside A1 (HA1) is an important anticancer saponin, although its mechanism of action and in vivo investigations are still lacking. Our previous results revealed that HA1 may have the potential to treat breast cancer. Therefore, we attempted to verify the potential anti-breast cancer effect of HA1 in vitro and in vivo. MTT, flow cytometry, DCFH-DA fluorescence microscopy, and western blotting were used to evaluate the activities and mechanisms of action of HA1. Athymic nude mice were used to demonstrate the antitumor activity of HA1 in vivo. HA1 exhibited significant cytotoxic effects on HepG2, MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, SKBr-3, HT-29, and HCT-116 cells, especially MCF-7 cells. HA1 blocked the sub-G1 and G0/G1 phases, induced apoptosis, promoted reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential of MCF-7 cells. HA1 upregulated Bax and downregulated Bcl-2 levels and activated caspase-9 and caspase-3 in MCF-7 cells Meanwhile, HA1 inhibited the phosphorylation of JAK2/STAT3 in MCF-7 cells. In addition, 50 and 100 mg/kg HA1 significantly inhibited the growth of transplanted tumors with inhibition rates of 46.95 ± 26.72% and 48.45 ± 22.36%, respectively. This preliminary study demonstrated that HA1 could inhibit proliferation and induce the apoptosis of MCF-7 cells via ROS-mediated activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and JAK2/STAT3 inactivation. HA1 may therefore be developed as a novel agent for breast cancer therapy.
Exploring Patients’ Pharmacy Stories: An Analysis of Online Feedback 
Authors: Loo Jared , Greaves Georgina , Lewis Penny
Published: April 2021

BackgroundStudies have demonstrated the potential for patient feedback to inform quality care as well as a direct relationship between patient experience and clinical outcomes. Over recent years, there has been increasing use of online patient feedback platforms, however, there has been little study of the content of patient feedback relating to pharmacy and pharmacy services.ObjectiveThis study explores the content of online feedback provided by patients from across the UK in relation to their experiences of their interaction with pharmacy staff and pharmacy services. Main outcome measureContent of patient feedback relating to pharmacyMethodPatient stories published on Care Opinion, a national online patient feedback platform, for a one-year period were searched for all content relating to patients’ pharmacy experiences. A thematic and sentiment analysis was conducted on 237 patient stories. ResultsPatient stories related to supply, staff attitudes, services, accessibility, systems, and errors. Patient sentiment depended on pharmacy setting, but staff attitudes, services, and accessibility were generally positive across all settings. Waiting time was the most common complaint in both hospital and community pharmacies with stories relaying experiences of slow discharge, stock shortages and poor communication and collaboration between pharmacies and GP surgeries. ConclusionsOnline patient feedback highlighted factors important to patients when interacting with pharmacies and their staff. Medication supply was the primary topic of patient stories with waiting times and stock shortages being clear areas for improvement; however, accessibility, pharmacy services and advice were key strengths of the profession. Further research is needed to understand how online patient feedback can be used effectively to inform improvements in pharmacy services.
Factors associated with knowledge on risk factors of sexual abuse among house girls and house boys in Singida Municipality, Central zone Tanzania: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Emily Filmon , Peter Dedius E. , Milanzi Walter C. , Joho Angelina A. , Moshi Fabiola
Published: April 2021

Background: Sexual abuse is a situation whereby any people or individual entered in any sexual malpractice or sexual contact without his/her will. Sexual abuse among house girls and house boys is among of general medical issue in our nation particularly in the urban areas and towns. The aim of the study was to examine predicators associated with knowledge on risk factors of sexual abuse among house girls and house boys in Singida Municipality.Methods: The cross section study involved a total of 252 participants from the selected house hold in Singida Municipality. A multistage sampling technique was used to obtain sample and data was collected by using self-administered structured questionnaire. Chi-square and logistic regression were used to determine the association between knowledge on risk factors and sexual abuse among house girls and house boys.Results: The large numbers of respondents with mean age of 22years old were single. Only 53.1% of house girls were knowledgeable on risk factors associated with sexual abuse compared to house boys. After control of the confounders the predictors of knowledge about risk factors on sexual abuse were educational level (AOR = 0.332, p = 0.002, 95%CI:0.167; 0.659), how did you find a job(AOR=2.412, p=0.001, 95%CI:1.433; 2.523), and type of family he/she living(AOR=4.672, p=0.002, 95%CI:0.0709; 0.719, nuclear family (AOR=4.023, p=0.023, 95%CI:0.101;0902). Conclusion: The findings depicted that the study participants have inadequate knowledge on risk factors associated with sexual abuse and it discovered that the influencing factors were education level, means of getting a job and type of family.
Methodological and Ecological Caveats in Deciphering Plant Volatile Emissions: the Case Study of Tomato Exposed to Herbivory and Resource Limitation
Authors: Kergunteuil Alan , COQUERET VICTOIRE , LARBAT ROMAIN , ADAMOWICZ STÉPHANE , BOT JACQUES LE , ROBIN CHRISTOPHE
Published: April 2021

Over recent years, major progress in experimental approaches have bring insights about the ecological functions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by plants. However, deciphering volatile emissions in a methodologically robust and ecologically relevant manner remains a challenging issue. A surge in interest is required to characterize potential blind spots in volatile sampling that could result in dramatic bias in our understanding of VOCs. In parallel, ecologists need to account for various environmental factors in order to address appropriately the sources of variations of VOCs. Here we use two common porous polymers, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and Porapak Q, to collect VOCs released by tomato exposed to herbivory in combination with nitrogen shortage. We dissect two key features of volatile blends, i.e., their composition and their diversity. Upon nitrogen limitation, Porapak Q stresses the up-regulation of a common defensive compound (methyl salicylate), while herbivory induces three terpenes involved in the recruitment of natural enemies of Tuta absoluta (2-carene, ɑ-pinene and β-phellandrene). This study suggests that the combination of resource availability and herbivory governs the differential production of generalist and specific VOCs that are active against a broad spectrum or particular herbivore species, respectively. But PDMS was found unsuitable to observe such patterns in the composition of VOC emissions. Additionally, Porapak Q was found more sensitive than PDMS to track the increase in the diversity of stress-related VOC emissions upon nitrogen limitation. This suggests that plants growing with poor resources release more information in surroundings. We discuss particular implications for tri-trophic-mediated plant defences.
Small polymeric toys placed in child-dedicated chocolate food products - do they contain harmful chemicals? Examination of quality by example of selected VOCs and SVOCs
Authors: Śmiełowska Monika , Marć Mariusz , Zabiegała Bożena
Published: April 2021

This study was focused on child-dedicated chocolate food products that contain a plastic package with a small toy inside (also known as chocolate eggs). Three types of these products that are commercially available on the Polish market, with different prices, chocolate composition, and main types of polymers used in the toy manufacturing process, were investigated. First, to fully characterise the studied polymer samples, the main types of material in the studied toys and their packaging were identified using Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis. Next, the emissions of selected toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of toy and packaging samples were identified using stationary emission micro-chamber. Total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) emissions were also estimated. Moreover, the content of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) as bioaccumulative semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) was checked in all parts of the cheapest product. The highest PBDE concentrations, which ranged from 5.32±0.79 to 1768±289 ng/g, were recorded in chocolate samples. This demonstrates the need for consumer knowledge on the safety of such products available on the Polish market to be broadened. This is one of the many examples of studies showing that products sold on the European market do not always comply with the CE declaration of conformity. Furthermore, the presence of phased-out PBDEs in toys may provide evidence of wrong recycling practices. Forward-looking considerations showed that, based on assessments of the hazard quotient (HQ) and cancer risk of BDE-209 (CRBDE-209) and assuming each child has contact with one toy and eats one of the studied chocolate products per day, there is no high risk associated with the exposure of children to PBDEs.