bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robots in Assisted Living Facilities: Scoping Review
Authors: Trainum Katie , Tunis Rachel , Xie Bo , Hauser Elliott
Published: January 2023

Background

Various technological interventions have been proposed and studied to address the growing demand for care of residents in assisted living facilities, in which a preexisting shortage of professional caregivers has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Care robots are one such intervention with the potential to improve both the care of older adults and the work life of their professional caregivers. However, concerns about efficacy, ethics, and best practices in the applications of robotic technologies in care settings remain.

Objective

This scoping review aimed to examine the literature on robots used in assisted living facilities and identify gaps in the literature to guide future research.

Methods

On February 12, 2022, following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) protocol, we searched PubMed, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, PsycINFO, IEEE Xplore digital library, and ACM Digital Library using predetermined search terms. Publications were included if they were written in English and focused on the use of robotics in assisted living facilities. Publications were excluded if they did not provide peer-reviewed empirical data, focused on user needs, or developed an instrument to study human-robot interaction. The study findings were then summarized, coded, and analyzed using the Patterns, Advances, Gaps, Evidence for practice, and Research recommendations framework.

Results

The final sample included 73 publications from 69 unique studies on the use of robots in assisted living facilities. The findings of studies on older adults were mixed, with some studies suggesting positive impacts of robots, some expressing concerns about robots and barriers to their use, and others being inconclusive. Although many therapeutic benefits of care robots have been identified, methodological limitations have weakened the internal and external validity of the findings of these studies. Few studies (18/69, 26%) considered the context of care: most studies (48/69, 70%) collected data only on recipients of care, 15 studies collected data on staff, and 3 studies collected data on relatives or visitors. Theory-driven, longitudinal, and large sample size study designs were rare. Across the authors’ disciplines, a lack of consistency in methodological quality and reporting makes it difficult to synthesize and assess research on care robotics.

Conclusions

The findings of this study call for more systematic research on the feasibility and efficacy of robots in assisted living facilities. In particular, there is a dearth of research on how robots may change geriatric care and the work environment within assisted living facilities. To maximize the benefits and minimize the consequences for older adults and caregivers, future research will require interdisciplinary collaboration among health sciences, computer science, and engineering as well as agreement on methodological standards.
Don’t Sugarcoat Diabetes: Addressing Diabetes Prevention among High School Students in South Texas (Preprint)
Authors: Krishnakumar Hari Narayan , Menon Shwetha Rajeev , Draeger Derrick , Rivas Lucas , Kaur Savreet , Momtaz David , Jabir Aaron , Pierrend Evelyn , Danet Bluhm Maria
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a significant public health issue in South Texas. Educating children from an early age can significantly impact the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the community.

OBJECTIVE

Don’t Sugarcoat Diabetes (DSD) is an interactive diabetes prevention-focused educational program designed to increase knowledge of the disease, prevention strategies, and healthy lifestyle practices among South Texas high school students.

METHODS

The hour-long interactive DSD diabetes prevention program addressing clinical progression, treatment, and prevention of T2DM was presented via Zoom™ to high school students across Bexar and Hidalgo counties (N=150). The students completed the electronically administered demographics survey and the 23-item Michigan Diabetes Research Knowledge Test (MDRKT) before and after DSD program participation. Data were analyzed for differences in pre and post-scores.

RESULTS

Most of the high school student participants were female (73%) and Hispanic (89%). The mean score on the knowledge test at baseline was 11/23 (48%) which was significantly increased to 17/23 (74%, p <0.001) after the DSD presentation. The students showed significant improvements (p <0.05) in scores for 16 items of the survey.

CONCLUSIONS

The baseline data showed a general lack of knowledge of T2DM in this high school population, which was improved following DSD program participation. These findings suggest the need to educate high schoolers on T2DM and the usefulness of the DSD program. Further dissemination of the program is recommended as well as studies on its long-term effects in the high school population.
Distribution Mapping of Children Under Five Years Malnutrition Cases using Geographic Information System in Yogyakarta City From 2017 to 2021 (Preprint)
Authors: Cahyani Riyas Shinta Rizky Harum
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

There are three indicators for calculating children’s nutritional status, which is used as parameters, namely weight for age, height for age, and weight for height in categories of stunting, wasting, underweight, and overweight. Yogyakarta has a high prevalence of cases of underweight and wasting children under five years.

OBJECTIVE

To describe malnutrition case distribution of children under five years using a geographic information system in City Yogyakarta from 2017-2021.

METHODS

This research used a quantitative descriptive method with a cross-sectional approach. The samples used were collected by total sampling. Data collection techniques were carried out using documentation studies. Data analysis used univariate analysis and spatial analysis with QGIS Dekstop 3.26.

RESULTS

The trend of the prevalence of stunting and wasting children under five years cases decrease from 2017-2021. The trend of the prevalence of underweight and overweight children under five years cases increase from 2017-2021. The highest risk areas for underweight cases occurred in Klitren Village, stunting cases in Kricak Village, wasting cases occurred in Wirogunan Village, and overweight caes occurred in Demangan Village.

CONCLUSIONS

The distribution of malnutrition in Yogyakarta City every year has a different pattern depending on the type of malnutrition. The stakeholder should maximize the use of GIS in carrying out nutritional intervention in Yogyakarta City.
Quantifying Adverse Childhood Experiences in Oklahoma With the Oklahoma Adversity Surveillance Index System (OASIS): Development and Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Beaman Jason Walter , Miner Cherie Josephine , Bolinger Cadence
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Developmental trauma depending on several factors may lead to later adult health risks and is an increasing public health concern, especially in states with predominantly rural populations. Oklahoma remains one of the states in America with the highest count of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs); therefore, more refined research methods for quantifying ACEs are vital for ensuring proper statewide interventions.

OBJECTIVE

While data sets already exist at the state level measuring specific ACEs like divorce or child abuse, the state currently lacks a single source for specific ACEs that can incorporate regions to allow for the identification of counties where ACEs are especially high. This county identification will allow for assessing trends in adversity prevalence over time to indicate where targeted interventions should be done and which counties experience amplified long-term consequences of high ACE rates. Thus, the model for the Oklahoma Adversity Surveillance Index System (OASIS) was born—a public health tool to map ACEs at the county level and grade them by severity over time.

METHODS

County-level data for 6 ACEs (mental illness, divorce, neglect, child abuse, domestic violence, and substance use) were collected from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, Oklahoma State Department of Health, and Oklahoma Community Mental Health Centers for the years 2010 to 2018. First, a potential ACEs score (PAS) was created by standardizing and summing county rates for each ACE. To examine the temporal change in the PAS, a bivariate regression analysis was conducted. Additionally, an ACEs severity index (ASI) was created as a standardized measure of ACE severity across time. This included scoring counties based on severity for each ACE individually and summing the scores to generate an overall ASI for each county, capturing the severity of all ACEs included in the analysis.

RESULTS

Mental illness and substance use showed the highest rates at the state level. Results from the regression were significant (F1,76=5.269; P=.02), showing that county PAS showed an increase over years. The ASI scores ranged from 0 to 6, and 4 Oklahoma counties (Adair, McCurtain, Muskogee, and Pittsburg) received a score of 6.

CONCLUSIONS

OASIS involves the identification of counties where ACEs are most prevalent, allowing for the prioritization of interventions in these “hot spot” counties. In addition, regression analysis showed that ACEs increased in Oklahoma from 2010 to 2018. Future efforts should center on adding additional ACEs to the ASI and correlating adverse outcome rates (such as violence and medical disorder prevalence) at the county level with high ASI scores.
Inclusive Education Scope and Challenges in 2022
Authors: Kumari Madhumala
Published: January 2023

The fundamental principle of the inclusive school is that all children should learn together, wherever possible, regardless of any difficulties or differences they may have. Inclusive schools must recognize and respond to the diverse needs of their students, accommodating both different styles and rates of learning and ensuring quality education to all through appropriate curricula, organizational arrangements, teaching strategies, resource use and partnerships with their communities. There should be a continuum of support and services to match the continuum of special needs encountered in every school. Inclusive education is a type of education where education is provided to all the students irrespective of their caste, religion, race, creed, birth place, colour, gender, and disabilities. Inclusive education provides an equal environment for all learners.
A Study on Awareness Level of Anaemia Among Young Adult Girls (18 To 25 Years), in Patna
Authors: Kumari Madhumala
Published: January 2023

In the case of anaemia, the amount of haemoglobin in the blood becomes very less than normal (5-9 grams per 100ml of blood), which reduces the ability of the body’s cells to take up oxygen. As a result, the cells do not get enough oxygen. In India, 86.0% of girls are suffering from anaemia in 2019-20 and Bihar, 63.6% of girls are suffering from anaemia according to NFHS. The main reason for the study is that India has the largest number of anaemia in girls. Anaemia is considered an important health problem because of the adverse effects on mental and physical development during a girl’s development. General information and awareness about health were substantiated by a majority (69%) of the young girls being aware of anaemia. But awareness about health consciousness and nutritional supplement is still lagging at less than half the percentage.
The Health Crisis of Marginalized Populations during COVID-19 Pandemic: Challenges and Recommendations
Authors: Kumari Madhumala
Published: January 2023

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the global population adversely. The impact is not limited to health only; rather extend to affect the global economy, transport, education and largely the social integrity. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the marginalized population more intensely. The marginalized population in the community are severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Community support and timely intervention for these population will prevent the spread of infection to these people as well as in the community. This review discusses the impact of COVID-19 in the marginalized population and some recommendations to deal with this issue. Extensive review of literature done by using the terms of marginalized population (transgender individuals, commercial sex workers, refugees, and migrant workforces, peoples living in prison, old age homes and hospice care) with COVID-19 in the electronic databases.
A Review of Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM) Aspects and Various Processes used in It
Authors: Asad Hassan , Ihsanullah Khan
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this review is to present a break-through technology named Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM), which can produce a real three-dimensional object directly from a CAD model in a matter of hours. The present paper discusses the rationale for this technology describes the LOM process and presents an overview of LOM machines currently available on the market. Software interfaces and the use of various materials are discussed as well. The laminated object manufacturing LOM process is an effective rapid prototyping technology with a variety of application possibilities. Applying LOM in rapid tooling and patternmaking is especially advantageous because of the LOM objects, robustness, their wood-like properties, and their comparably low material costs. This review paper presents an extension of the sheet lamination object manufacturing process by using a robotic cell to perform the sheet manipulation and handling as well as proposes a frozen slurry-based laminated object manufacturing (FS-LOM) for processing porous ceramics.
Applications and Prospects of 3D Printing in the Packaging Industry
Authors: Asad Hassan , Ihsanullah Khan , Javaid Muhammad
Published: January 2023

In this paper four 3D printing technologies fused deposition modeling (FDM), selective laser sintering (SLS), stereo lithography appearance (SLA), and laminated object manufacturing (LOM) were examined for their characteristics its applications. Technology for 3D printing Since the 1980s, when the field of applications first began to take off, rapid advancement has been made. Materials for 3D printing have been introduced. In order to build items with a variety of shape, size, rigidity, and color, it entails layering materials such as plastics, composites, or biomaterials. Another innovation was the use of 3D printing in the engineering of packaging. It has been noted that the benefits of 3D printing technology in the packaging business are unmatched by other comparable packaging production technologies, and that 3D printing technology has a very broad range of competitive advantage through innovation in the future packaging industry. The development of 3D printing raw material technology determines the development of 3D printing technology Development boundary. It has high requirements on the purity, sphericity, particle size distribution, bulk density, oxygen content, fluidity and other properties of metal powder materials.
Effect of Collagen Molecules and Hydroxyapatite Salt on Thermal Properties of Rib, Scapula, and Femur of Some Bovines under Normal and Decalcified Conditions
Authors: Rauf Abdul , Ahmad Syed Ismail
Published: January 2023

The study of thermal properties such as conductivity and specific heat of biomaterials is very important as most biological processes, in which biological tissues, cells, and molecules are involved are dependent on body temperature. The main source of body heat is the chemical metabolism of food. Various mechanisms are being adopted by different types of animals to maintain body temperature, such as reducing blood flow through the capillaries nearest the skin surface, body hair can be fluffed up to increase insulation, heat production by shivering, etc. The hard and soft tissues, such as the flesh and bone of animals, play a very important role in keeping the required body temperature. The thermal conductivity and specific heat of the femur, rib, and scapula of two different environment animal ox, the wetland and camel desert dry land are investigated in normal and decalcified conditions. Modified Lee’s apparatus has been used to determine the thermal conductivity, while Renault’s apparatus which is based on the principle of the method of mixtures has been employed for determining the specific heat of samples that were pelletized. A difference in conductivities and specific heat of various bones in both animals was observed due to varied calcium phosphate. The decalcified bone samples of ox and camel show higher thermal conductivity compared to normal bones, while a decrease in specific heat was observed in decalcified bones. The specific heat is affected by the variations in the molecular structure due to changes in temperature. The paper suggests that these techniques are simple, elegant, and inexpensive besides being accurate.
Kyllinga nemoralis Methanolic Roots Extract Inhibits Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Replication Cycle
Authors: Abd Wahab Noor Zarina , Mohd Saidi Syamila Izzati , A.Rahman Nor Iza , Ibrahim Nazlina
Published: January 2023

Kyllinga nemoralis also known as, whitehead spike sedge is a perennial herb which contains antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-bleeding properties. This study was designed to determine the biological activity of K. nemoralis methanolic roots extract on herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) replication cycle. The effect on HSV-1 replication phases was observed by performing time-of-addition and time removal assays. Meanwhile, the level of HSV-1 selected genes expression was analysed by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). In the time addition assay, K. nemoralis extract anti-HSV-1 activity was found to be most optimum when given at 2 hpi (>45% plaque reduction). The time removal assay showed that >80% plaque reduction was achieved when treatment of K. nemoralis extract was given until 24 hpi. K. nemoralis extract suppressed immediate early, early and late phases of HSV-1 replication cycle by altering the expression of UL54, UL27 and UL30 genes during the infection. This study showed that K. nemoralis methanolic roots extract has potential as anti HSV-1 by reducing the expression of HSV-1 genes at different phases of viral replication.
Review: Antioxidant Activity of Rose Hip
Authors: Waghmare Ishika , Bharati Ashwini
Published: January 2023

Abstract: Antioxidants are bioactive and plant-derived compounds that are mostly comprised of herbal formulation. Most bioactive substances such as flavonoid, phenolic compounds, and ascorbic acids show antioxidant activity. According to various research articles, rosehip is one of the plants considered to be providing antioxidant property
Systematic Review on Herbs with Antidandruff Property
Authors: Khandebharad Vishal , Kene Manish , More Babita , Vyawhare Pooja , Tasgaonkar Rupali
Published: January 2023

Abstract: The most common problem in teenage and adult is of dandruff which is scientifically known as ‘Malassezia’ which if ignore can further continue with secondary symptoms like Acne, itching, discomfort etc. The present review highlighted the mechanism of ‘Malassezia’ along with the available treatment for it. Though the number of synthetic formulations available, the present review focuses on alterative and safe way to treat dandruff i.e. use of herbs with their biological source and constituents responsible for effectivity to solve the problem in broad population. Due to wide range of activity phytoconstituents like anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal, these synergistic effect may increase the applicability of herbs in cosmetics and cosmeceuticals as well. Hence the considering the need of herbal formulation development an attempt has been made to discuss about formulation commonly used to treat dandruff i.e. shampoo, different parameters of evaluation and invitro method evaluation of Antidandruff activity.
PROPOSIÇÃO DE MODELO INTEGRATIVO DE INTRAEMPREENDEDORISMO
Authors: Fontes Novaes Graziela , Dai Prá Martens Cristina
Published: January 2023

Objetivo: Identificar os fatores que permeiam o comportamento intraempreendedor dos colaboradores com base na literatura sobre o tema.
Método / abordagem: Foi utilizada uma abordagem metodológica qualitativa e exploratória, por meio de uma revisão sistemática da literatura.
Principais resultados: Como principal resultado, esta pesquisa apresenta um modelo integrativo que constitui os fatores que facilitam e inibem o intraempreendedorismo, características e traços de personalidade de intraempreendedores, os aspectos do comportamento intraempreendedor, consequências individuais e organizacionais. O modelo contribui para uma melhor compreensão dos fatores que permeiam o comportamento intraempreendedor dos colaboradores.
Contribuições metodológicas / sociais / gerenciais: Esta pesquisa contribui teoricamente para ampliar e enriquecer a literatura no campo do intraempreendedorismo, consolidando os fatores que permeiam o comportamento intraempreendedor dos colaboradores. Do ponto de vista prático, fornece subsídios para auxiliar executivos, gerentes e o setor de recursos humanos na contratação, identificação, alocação e desenvolvimento de intraempreendedores dentro das organizações.
Originalidade / relevância: O modelo integrativo de intraempreendedorismo dos colaboradores contribui ao agregar antecedentes (facilitadores e inibidores), características e traços de personalidade do intraempreendedor, e consequentes (individuais e organizacionais). O intraempreendedorismo pode contribuir para sustentar uma organização em seu ambiente de negócios, por meio de mudanças, inovação, crescimento econômico, renovação de força e vigor.
Remotely Controlled Entanglement Generation
Authors: Riera-Sàbat Ferran , Sekatski Pavel , Dür Wolfgang
Published: January 2023

We consider a system of multiple qubits without any quantum control. We show that one can mediate entanglement between different subsystems in a controlled way by adding a (locally) controlled auxiliary system of the same size that couples via an always-on, distant dependent interaction to the system qubits. Solely by changing the internal state of the control system, one can selectively couple it to selected qubits, and ultimately generate different kinds of entanglement within the system. This provides an alternative way for quantum control and quantum gates that does not rely on the ability to switch interactions on and off at will, and can serve as a locally controlled quantum switch where all entanglement patterns can be created. We demonstrate that such an approach also offers an increased error tolerance w.r.t. position fluctuations.
Predictors of disease severity and outcomes in pediatric patients with croup and coronavirus disease 2019 in the pediatric emergency department
Authors: Lee En-Pei , Chun-Ting Mu , Yen Chen-Wei , Hsia Shao-Hsuan , Lin Jainn-Jim , Chan Oi-Wa , CHIU CHUN-CHE , Lai Shen-Hao , Yang Wen-Chieh , Chen Chun-Yu , Su Ya-Ting , Wu Han-Ping
Published: January 2023

Background: Croup caused by the severe acute respiratory
syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an emerging disease, and data on
the risk factors associated with disease severity are still limited. The
Westley croup score (WS) is widely used to assess croup severity. The
current study aimed to analyze biomarkers associated with the WS and
clinical outcomes in patients with croup and coronavirus disease 2019 in
the pediatric emergency department (PED). Population and
Method: Patients diagnosed with croup caused by SARS-CoV-2 were
admitted at two PEDs. Clinical data including age, WS, length of
hospital stay, initial laboratory data, and treatment were analyzed.
Clinical parameters were evaluated via multivariate logistic regression
analysis. The best cutoff values for predicting croup severity and
outcomes were identified using the receiver operating characteristic
curve. Result: In total, 250 patients were assessed. Moreover,
128 (51.2%) patients were discharged from the PED, and 122 (48.8%)
were admitted to the hospital. Mild, moderate, and severe croup
accounted for 63.6% (n = 159), 32% (n = 80), and 4.4% (n = 11) of all
cases, respectively. A high mean age (years), neutrophil count (%),
neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), ALT (U/L), procalcitonin (ng/mL),
and hemoglobin (g/dL) level, and length of hospital stay (days), and a
low lymphocyte count (%) and blood pH were associated with croup
severity and need for intensive care. Based on the multivariate logistic
regression model, the NLR remained independent factors associated with
croup severity and prognosis. Further, NLR was significantly correlated
with WS. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of
NLR for predicting a WS of ≥ 3 was 0.895 (0.842–0.948, p <
0.001), and that for predicting ICU admission was 0.795 (0.711–0.879, p
< 0.001). The best cutoff values for a WS of ≥3 and ICU
admission were 1.65 and 2.06, respectively. Conclusion: WS is
associated with the severity of croup caused by SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore,
NLR is correlated with WS and is a cost effective, easily accessible
prognostic biomarker in the PED.
Thrombocytosis - a Marker of Disease Severity in Children with Viral Respiratory Tract Infections
Authors: Elber-Dorozko Sergei , Kerem Liya , Wolf Dana , Brodie Shlomit , Berkun Yaacov , Brooks Rebecca , Breuer Oded
Published: January 2023

Background: Reactive thrombocytosis (Platelets
>500K/μl) is estimated between 3-13% in hospitalized
children and has been associated with RSV infection and younger age. We
aimed to examine the clinical significance of thrombocytosis in children
admitted to the hospital with an influenza-like illness (ILI).
Methods: We performed an analysis of a database of patients
evaluated at our Medical Centers with an ILI between 2009 and 2013. We
included pediatric patients and examined the association between
platelet count, respiratory viral infections, and admission outcomes
(hospital length of stay (LOS) and admission to the pediatric intensive
care unit (PICU() using regression models adjusting for laboratory,
clinical and demographic parameters. Results: Of 19,192 adults
and children in the database, 5,171 children met inclusion criteria
(median age 0.8 years (Interquartile range, 0.2-1.8), 58% male, median
LOS of 3 days (Interquartile range, 2-5)). Younger age and not the type
of viral infection was associated with a high platelet count
(p<0.001). Elevated platelet count independently predicted
admission outcomes, adjusted for multiple covariates (p≤0.006).
Furthermore, the presence of thrombocytosis was associated with an
increased risk for a prolonged LOS (odds ratio=1.2 (95% Confidence
interval=1.1-1.4, p=0.003)) and admission to the PICU (odds ratio=1.5
(95% Confidence interval =1.1-2.0, p=0.002)). Conclusions: In
children admitted with an ILI, a high platelet count is associated with
younger age and is an independent predictor of hospital LOS and
admission to the PICU. Our results show that platelet count may be used
to improve risk assessment and management decisions in these pediatric
patients.
What the F-POD? Comparing the F-POD and C-POD for monitoring of harbour porpoise (Phocoena phococena).
Authors: Todd Nicole , Kavanagh Ailbhe , Rogan Emer , Jessopp Mark
Published: January 2023

Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) is a cost-effective method for
monitoring cetacean populations compared to techniques such as aerial
and ship-based surveys. The C-POD (Cetacean POrpoise Detector) has
become an integral tool in monitoring programmes globally for over a
decade, providing standardised metrics of occurrence that can be
compared across time and space. However, the phasing out of C-PODs
following development of the new F-POD (Full waveform capture Pod) with
increased sensitivity, improved train detection, and reduced false
positive rates, represents an important methodological change in data
collection, particularly when being introduced into existing monitoring
programmes. Here, we compare the performance of the C-POD with that of
its successor, the F-POD, co-deployed in a field setting for 15 months,
to monitor harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). While similar temporal
trends in detections were found for both devices, the C-POD detected
only 58% of the detection positive minutes (DPM), recorded by the
F-POD. Differences in detection rates were not consistent through time
making it difficult to apply a correction factor or directly compare
results obtained from the two PODs. To test whether these differences in
detection rates would have an effect on analyses of temporal patterns
and environmental drivers of occurrence, generalised additive models
(GAMs) were applied. No differences were found in seasonal patterns or
the environmental correlates of porpoise occurrence (month, diel period,
temperature, environmental noise, and tide). However, the C-POD failed
to detect sufficient foraging buzzes to identify temporal patterns in
foraging behaviour that were clearly shown by the F-POD. Our results
suggest that the switch to F-PODs will have little effect on determining
broad-scale seasonal patterns of occurrence, but may improve our
understanding of fine-scale behaviours such as foraging. We highlight
how care must be taken interpreting F-POD results as indicative of
increased occurrence when used in time-series analysis.
Are children with sickle cell disease at particular risk from the harmful effects of air pollution? Evidence from a large, urban/peri-urban cohort.
Authors: George Paul E. , N Alexander Maillis , Zhu Yijing , Liu Yang , Lane Peter , Lam Wilbur , Lipscomb Joseph , Ebelt Stefanie
Published: January 2023

Introduction Pathophysiologic pathways of sickle cell disease (SCD) and
air pollution involve inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial
damage. It is therefore plausible that children with SCD are especially
prone to air pollution’s harmful effects. Methods Patient data were
collected from a single center, urban/peri-urban cohort of children with
confirmed SCD. Daily ambient concentrations of particulate matter (PM
) were collected via satellite-derived remote-sensing
technology, and carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO
), and ozone from local monitoring stations. We used
multivariable regression to quantify associations of pollutant levels
and daily counts of emergency department (ED) visits, accounting for
weather and time trends. For comparison, we quantified the associations
of pollutant levels with daily all-patient (non-SCD) ED visits to our
center. Results From 2010-2018, there were 17 731 ED visits by 1740
children with SCD (64.8% HbSS/HbSβ ). Vaso-occlusive
events (57.8%), respiratory illness (17.1%), and fever (16.1%) were
the most common visit diagnoses. Three-day (lags 0-2) rolling mean PM
and CO levels were associated with daily ED visits
among those with SCD (PM incident rate ratio (IRR)
1.051 (95% CI 1.010-1.094) per 9.4 µg/m increase;
CO 1.088 (1.045-1.132) per 0.5 ppm). NO showed
positive associations in secondary analyses; ozone levels were not
associated with ED visits. The comparison, all-patient ED visit analyses
showed lower IRR for all pollutants. Conclusions Our results suggest
short-term air pollution levels as triggers for SCD events and that
children with SCD may be more vulnerable to air pollution than those
without SCD. Targeted pollution-avoidance strategies could have
significant clinical benefits in this population.
Interactions between evolved pesticide resistance and pesticide exposure influence immunity against pathogens
Authors: Birnbaum Stephanie , Schulz Nora , Tate Ann
Published: January 2023

Combined exposure to stressors, including pesticides and pathogens, is
common in natural insect populations. Pesticide resistance readily
evolves in these populations and often coopts the same stress,
detoxification, and immune pathways involved in physiological responses
against primary pathogen and pesticide exposure. As a result, resistance
evolution can alter antagonism or facilitation among chemical pesticides
and pathogens in directions that remain difficult to predict. To
investigate the interactive effects of chemical pesticide resistance,
exposure, and bacterial infection on insect phenotypes, we
experimentally evolved resistance to two different classes of pesticides
(organophosphates and pyrethroids) in the red flour beetle, Tribolium
castaneum. We exposed pesticide susceptible and resistant lines to
pesticides, the entomopathogen and biocontrol agent Bacillus
thuringiensis (Bt), or both. Pesticide resistance and Bt exposure were
individually associated with slower development, indicating sub-lethal
fitness costs of resistance and infection, respectively. After
organophosphate exposure, however, beetles developed more quickly and
were more likely to survive if also exposed to Bt. We used RNAseq to
examine the interactive effects of pesticide resistance, pesticide
exposure, and Bt exposure on gene expression. Pyrethroid-resistant
insects exhibited dampened immune responses to Bt infection relative to
susceptible ones. In a similar vein, simultaneous exposure to
organophosphates and Bt resulted in muted stress-associated
transcriptional responses compared to exposure with only one factor. Our
results suggest that direct and host-mediated indirect interactions
among pathogens and pesticides may buffer the cost of exposure to host
fitness-associated traits within generations but exacerbate trade-offs
over evolutionary time.
Recent Advances in Microbial Production of Vitamin B12: Review of Optimization Strategies and High-Yielding Strains
Authors: Raza Mohsan , Khan Arif
Published: January 2023

VitaminB12 is a water soluble vitamin and plays a significant role
during metabolism. It also acts as the cofactor of many enzymes during
DNA synthesis. Moreover Vitamin B12 is involved in red blood cells
production, healthy nerve tissues and brain functions. Certain archaeon
and bacteria has the ability to synthesize the vitamin B12 and it is not
been synthesized in plants. The synthesized vitamin B12 in microbes has
the ability to be transferred and can be present in many of the plants,
mushrooms by microbial interaction also in Animal tissues so ruminant’s
meat and milk can act as source of vitamin B12. By increasing demand of
vitamin B12 Scientists have used microbes for its production at
industrial scale by giving them optimized culture conditions including
Sinorhizobium meliloti, Propionibacterium shermanii, or Pseudomonas
denitrificans. The different substrates especially agro-industrial waste
because of their low price and high content of carbon can be used for
microbial growth. Both modes of fermentation (solid and submerged
fermentation) are used for Vitamin B12 production from microbes.
Different strains grow at different culture conditions. This review is
based upon the short introduction of vitamin B12, its different sources,
different substrates for production; optimized culture conditions its
purification and extraction.
Prognostic Role of PD-L1 Expression in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Varies by Oral Compartments and Immunostaining Patterns: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Hua Xiaoguo , Li Jiong , Chen Cai , Hu Rui , Feng Xiqiu , Jiang Yong , Zhang Xiujun
Published: January 2023

Blocking the PD-L1/PD-1 pathway efficiently enhanced antitumor immunity
that reduced tumour growth and improved survival, whereas the prognostic
roles of PD-L1 positivity in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) were
controversial. This study aimed to determine the clinicopathological and
prognostic significance of PD-L1 expression in tumor cells (TCs) or
tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) of OSCC. The systematic retrieve
was performed for seeking suitable studies through PubMed, Web of
Science, the Cochrane Library and Scopus. 46 studies were ultimately
included in the meta-analysis. This study showed that the levels of
PD-L1 expression in TCs were relatively high in femal patients (P
<0.001), non-smoker (P <0.001), non-drinkers (P
=0.037), advanced stage (P =0.028), N+ status (P =0.027), and tumours
with high levels of PD-1 (P =0.024), and CD8+ (P =0.022). High PD-L1
expression in TCs had significant effect on worse LRFS (P=0.004), and
also was more likely to have worse OS in Asia (P =0.018). Both DSS (P
=0.035) and DFS (P =0.003), at a 5% cut-off of PPC, had positive
association with high PD-L1 expression. The results of OS showed that a
worse prognosis for 5H1 (P =0.032), and a favourable prognosis for
22C3(P =0.001). E1L3N was shown to be associated with an worse DSS (P
=0.014). High expressions of PD-L1 in TCs had a worse OS (P =0.023) and
DFS (P =0.003) in OSCC of the tongue. Consequently, future study should
especially consider oral compartments and methods for PD-L1
immunostaining as confounding factors when observing PD-L1 of response
to anti-PD1 therapy.
Requirements Management Processes; an insight into the RMP activities in software industry and literature (A Case Study)
Authors: Ahmed Mr. Abrar , Anwar Mehmood , Hassan Taimoor
Published: January 2023

no software development exists in industries without the proper
relevant software requirements. All the cycles of design and development
are based on it. We can say that its play as the backbone for the whole
development process. In this paper, process analysis of requirement
management in the software industry in the light of real industrial
survey through a proper questionnaire. All the results analysis based on
a given filled survey by a specific company employee. Their results are
based on the requirement life cycle (Trace, Maintain, Prioritize,
Access, Approve) that is explained in the result section.
Building the LLVM and GCC Translation Systems, with Amake
Authors: Buffenbarger Jim
Published: January 2023

This paper describes the author’s exploratory experience of porting the
build systems of two large software distributions, the LLVM and GCC
programming-language translation systems, to the Amake build tool. Amake
is an enhanced derivative of the very popular GNU Make. Amake adds
automatic language-independent dependency analysis and site-wide
heterogeneous target caching. Amake also supports GNU Make’s
parallel-build capabilities. This experience included (mostly) expected
changes to both of these build systems, but somewhat surprising changes
to Amake’s design and implementation. A description of the former
changes is hoped to encourage developers to migrate their build systems
to Amake. The latter changes showcase Amake’s most recently added
features.
Permeability and elastic properties of rocks from the northern Hikurangi margin: Implications for slow-slip events
Authors: Tisato Nicola , Bland Carolyn , Avendonk Harm Van , Bangs Nathan , Alamoudi Omar , Olsen Kelly , Gase Andrew
Published: January 2023

Fluid flow and pore-pressure cycling are often invoked as controls to
slow slip events (SSEs), such as those that frequently occur at the
northern Hikurangi margin (HM) of New Zealand. To better understand
fluid flow in the forearc system, we examined the relationship between
elastic properties, compaction, porosity, and permeability of Cretaceous
to Pliocene mudstones from the Raukumara peninsula. We found that the
permeability of the deep wedge is too low to drain fluids, but
fracturing increases permeability by orders of magnitude, making
fracturing key for fluid flow. In weeks to months, plastic deformation
and clay swelling heal the fractures restoring the initial permeability.
We conclude that overpressures at the northern HM might partly dissipate
during SSEs due to enhanced permeability near faults. However, in the
weeks to months following an SSE, healing in the prism will lower
permeability, forcing pore pressure to rise and a new SSE to occur.
Human-induced changes in South American sediment fluxes from 1984 to 2019
Authors: Fagundes Hugo de Oliveira , Fleischmann Ayan Santos , Fan Fernando Mainardi , Paiva Rodrigo Cauduro Dias de , Buarque Diogo Costa , Siqueira Vinícius Alencar , Collischonn Walter , Borrelli Pasquale
Published: January 2023

Sediment flows dynamics (erosion, transport and deposition) have been
disrupted in South America (SA), a continent with the highest erosion
and sediment transport rates globally. However, the magnitude and
spatial distribution of the main drivers of changes have been poorly
identified and explored. Here, we performed simulations using a
hydrological-hydrodynamic-sediment model to comprehensively estimate the
spatial and temporal sediment changes and trends in SA from 1984 to
2019. We found that 51% of the main SA rivers experienced significant
changes in simulated sediment transport (QST) over this period, with
36% due to Amazon deforestation and river damming and 15% due to
precipitation changes. We also estimated a 10% reduction in the average
sediment delivery to the oceans. Deforestation was responsible for QST
changes above 80% in some Amazon sites, and hydropower expansion led to
a greater reduction of sediment flows (as high as 80-100%) in the
Tocantins, Uruguay, Upper Paraná, lower São Francisco, Desaguadero, and
Negro rivers. In addition, our results suggest that reservoirs built in
the Amazon region in the last decade are also affecting sediment
transport. Our modeling outputs provide unprecedented information about
the status of sediment dynamics in SA, and a means to develop
evidence-based strategies and transboundary policies related to
continental-wide sediment dynamics and the conservation and restoration
of ecosystems.
Numerical and field investigations unveil the response of salt marshes to storm sediment input
Authors: Pannozzo Natascia , Leonardi Nicoletta , Carnacina Iacopo , Smedley Rachel K
Published: January 2023

Salt marshes are ecosystems with significant economic and environmental
value. With accelerating rate in sea-level rise, it is not clear whether
salt marshes will be able to retain their resilience. Field and
numerical investigations have shown that storms play a significant role
in marsh accretion and that they might be crucial to salt marsh survival
to sea-level rise. Here we present the results from two studies
(Pannozzo et al., 2021a,b; Pannozzo et al., 2022) that used numerical
and field investigations to quantify the impact of storm surges on the
sediment budget of salt marshes within different sea-level scenarios and
to investigate how sediment transport pathways determine marsh response
to storm sediment input. The Ribble Estuary, North-West England, was
used as a test case. The hydrodynamic model Delft3D was used to simulate
the estuary morpho-dynamics under selected storm surge and sea-level
scenarios. In addition, sediment samples collected with a monthly
frequency from different areas of the marsh were analysed with sediments
collected from possible sources to integrate field observations with the
numerical investigation of sediment transport pathways during stormy and
non-stormy conditions. Results showed that, although sea-level rise
threatens the estuary and marsh stability by promoting ebb dominance and
triggering a net export of sediment, storm surges promote flood
dominance and trigger a net import of sediment, increasing the
resilience of the estuary and salt marsh to sea-level rise, with the
highest surges having the potential to offset sea-level effects on
sediment transport and sediment budget of the system. However, although
storm sediment input resulted to be significant for the accretion of the
marsh platform and particularly for the marsh interior, data showed that
storms mainly remobilise sediments already present in the intertidal
system and only to a minor extent transport new sediment from external
sources.

References

Pannozzo N. et al., 2021. Salt marsh resilience to sea-level rise and
increased storm intensity. Geomorphology, 389 (4): 107825.

Pannozzo N. et al., 2021. Dataset of results from numerical simulations
of increased storm intensity in an estuarine salt marsh system. Data in
Brief, 38 (6): 107336.

Pannozzo N. et al., 2022. Sediment transport pathways determine the
sensitivity of salt marshes to storm sediment input. In preparation.
Ensemble-Based Data Assimilation of Significant Wave Height from Sofar Spotters and Satellite Altimeters with a Global Operational Wave Model
Authors: Houghton Isabel , Penny Stephen Gregory , Hegermiller Christie , Cesaretti Moriah , Teicheira Camille , Smit Pieter Bart
Published: January 2023

An ensemble-based method for wave data assimilation is implemented using
significant wave height observations from the globally distributed
network of Sofar Spotter buoys and satellite altimeters. The Local
Ensemble Transform Kalman Filter (LETKF) method generates skillful
analysis fields resulting in reduced forecast errors out to 2.5 days
when used as initial conditions in a cycled wave data assimilation
system. The LETKF method provides more physically realistic model state
updates that better reflect the underlying sea state dynamics and
uncertainty compared to methods such as optimal interpolation. Skill
assessment far from any included observations and inspection of specific
storm events highlight the advantages of LETKF over an optimal
interpolation method for data assimilation. This advancement has
immediate value in improving predictions of the sea state and, more
broadly, enabling future coupled data assimilation and utilization of
global surface observations across domains (atmosphere-wave-ocean).
Effects of lower troposphere vertical mixing on simulated clouds and precipitation over the Amazon during the wet season
Authors: Hu Xiao-Ming , Huang Yongjie , Xue Ming , Martin Elinor R , Hong Yang , Chen Mengye , Novoa Hector Mayol , McPherson Renee A. , Perez Andres , Morales Isaac Yanqui , Luna Auria Julieta Flores
Published: January 2023

Planetary boundary layer (PBL) schemes parameterize unresolved turbulent
mixing within the PBL and free troposphere (FT). Previous studies
reported that precipitation simulation over the Amazon in South America
is quite sensitive to PBL schemes and the exact relationship between the
turbulent mixing and precipitation processes is, however, not
disentangled. In this study, regional climate simulations over the
Amazon in January-February 2019 are examined at process level to
understand the precipitation sensitivity to PBL scheme. The focus is on
two PBL schemes, the Yonsei University (YSU) scheme, and the asymmetric
convective model v2 (ACM2) scheme, which show the largest difference in
the simulated precipitation. During daytime, while the FT clouds
simulated by YSU dissipate, clouds simulated by ACM2 maintain because of
enhanced moisture supply due to the enhanced vertical moisture relay
transport process: 1) vertical mixing within PBL transports surface
moisture to the PBL top, and 2) FT mixing feeds the moisture into the FT
cloud deck. Due to the thick cloud deck over Amazon simulated by ACM2,
surface radiative heating is reduced and consequently the convective
available potential energy (CAPE) is reduced. As a result, precipitation
is weaker from ACM2. Two key parameters dictating the vertical mixing
are identified, p, an exponent determining boundary layer mixing and λ,
a scale dictating FT mixing. Sensitivity simulations with altered p, λ,
and other treatments within YSU and ACM2 confirm the precipitation
sensitivity. The FT mixing in the presence of clouds appears most
critical to explain the sensitivity between YSU and ACM2.