bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial analysis of cardiovascular mortality and associated factors around the world
Authors: Baptista Emerson Augusto , Queiroz Bernardo Lanza
Published: August 2022

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the most serious health issues and the leading cause of death worldwide in both developed and developing countries. The risk factors for CVD include demographic, socioeconomic, behavioral, environmental, and physiological factors. However, the spatial distribution of these risk factors, as well as CVD mortality, are not uniformly distributed across countries. Therefore, the goal of this study is to compare and evaluate some models commonly used in mortality and health studies to investigate whether the CVD mortality rates in the adult population (over 30 years of age) of a country are associated with the characteristics of surrounding countries from 2013 to 2017.

Methods

We present the spatial distribution of the age-standardized crude mortality rate from cardiovascular disease, as well as conduct an exploratory data analysis (EDA) to obtain a basic understanding of the behavior of the variables of interest. Then, we apply the ordinary least squares (OLS) to the country level dataset. As OLS does not take into account the spatial dependence of the data, we apply two spatial modelling techniques, that is, spatial lag and spatial error models.

Results

Our empirical findings show that the relationship between CVD and income, as well as other socioeconomic variables, are important. In addition, we highlight the importance of understanding how changes in individual behavior across different countries might affect future trends in CVD mortality, especially related to smoking and dietary behaviors.

Conclusions

We argue that this study provides useful clues for policymakers establishing effective public health planning and measures for the prevention of deaths from cardiovascular disease. The reduction of CVD mortality can positively impact GDP growth because increasing life expectancy enables people to contribute to the economy of the country and its regions for longer.
Validation of the German eHealth impact questionnaire for online health information users affected by multiple sclerosis
Authors: Sippel Anna , Riemann-Lorenz Karin , Pöttgen Jana , Wiedemann Renate , Drixler Karin , Bitzer Eva Maria , Holmberg Christine , Lezius Susanne , Heesen Christoph
Published: August 2022

Background

Persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) are confronted by an overwhelming amount of online health information, which can be valuable but also vary in quality and aim. Therefore, it is of great importance for developers and providers of eHealth information to understand its impact on the users. The eHealth Impact Questionnaire (eHIQ) has been developed in the United Kingdom to measure the potential effects of health and experimental information websites. This contains user’s general attitudes towards using the internet to gain health information and attitudes towards a specific health related website. The self-complete questionnaire is divided into two independently administered and scored parts: the 11-item eHIQ part 1 and the 26-item eHIQ part 2. This study aimed to validate the psychometric properties of the German version of the eHealth Impact Questionnaire (eHIQ-G).

Methods

162 people with multiple sclerosis browsed one of two possible websites containing information on MS and completed an online survey. Internal consistency was assessed by Cronbach’s alpha and structural validity by Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Construct validity was examined by assessing correlations with the reference instruments eHealth Literacy Questionnaire and the General Self-Efficacy Scale measuring related, but dissimilar constructs. Moreover, we investigated the mean difference of the eHIQ-G score between the two websites. Data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS software.

Results

The eHIQ-G subscales showed high internal consistency with Cronbach’s alpha from 0.833 to 0.885. The 2-factor model of eHIQ part 1 achieved acceptable levels of goodness-of-fit indices, whereas the fit for the 3-factor model of eHIQ part 2 was poor and likewise for the alternative modified models. The correlations with the reference instruments were 0.08–0.62 and as expected. Older age was related with lower eHIQ part 1 score, whereas no significant effect was found for education on eHIQ part 1. Although not significant, the website ‘AMSEL’ reached higher mean scores on eHIQ part 2.

Conclusions

The eHIQ-G has good internal consistency, and sufficient structural and construct validity. This instrument will facilitate the measurement of the potential impact of eHealth tools.
Reducing care burden and improving adherence to health-promoting behaviors among family caregivers of patients with multiple sclerosis through a healthy lifestyle empowerment program
Authors: Homayouni Abdolsamad , Vasli Parvaneh , Estebsari Fatemeh , Nasiri Maliheh
Published: August 2022

Background and aim

The chronic, progressive nature of multiple sclerosis (MS) demands long-term family-centered care for patients. In view of that, inadequate education and support provided for the family caregivers (FCGs) of MS patients increase their care burden (CB) and affect their lifestyle. This study aimed to investigate the impact of a healthy lifestyle empowerment program (HLEP) on CB and adherence to health-promoting behaviors (HPBs) in the FCGs of patients suffering from MS.

Methods

In this experimental study with parallel groups, conducted in Iran in 2020, a total of 60 FCGs of MS patients were recruited, and then randomized into intervention (n = 30) or control (n = 30) groups. The intervention program, the HLEP, was thus implemented virtually via WhatsApp in the intervention group upon coordinating with the MS Association in the city of Yasuj, Iran, and selecting the participants. The data were collected at three stages, including baseline, follow-up 1 (immediately after the HLEP), and follow-up 2 (three months after HLEP). The research tools were a 14-item demographic survey questionnaire, the 24-item Caregiver Burden Inventory, and the 52-item Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile-II. Independent-samples t-test, repeated measures analysis of variance, and a linear mixed model were further used for statistical analyses, considering the significant level of 0.05.

Results

The study results revealed a significant decrease in the CB scores from the baseline to the follow-up 2 (77.03 ± 15.76 to 42.33 ± 12.37), and a significant increase in the values of adherence to HPBs from the baseline to the follow-up 2 (123.53 ± 14.01 to 148.06 ± 15.04) were obtained in the intervention group (p < 0.001). The linear mixed model also showed that the significant absolute changes in the scores of CB and adherence to HPBs during the follow-ups in the intervention group, compared to those in the controls, were − 8.92 and 16.47 units, respectively (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Health care managers, planners, and providers are highly recommended to start developing and implementing various HLEPs for reducing CB and improving adherence to HPBs among the FCGs of patients with MS.
Community trial evaluating the integration of Indigenous healing practices and a harm reduction approach with principles of seeking safety in an Indigenous residential treatment program in northern Ontario
Authors: Morin K. A. , Marsh T. N. , Eshakakogan C. , Eibl J. K. , Spence M. , Gauthier G. , Walker J. D. , Sayers Dean , Ozawanimke Alan , Bissaillion Brent , Marsh D. C.
Published: August 2022

Objective

Our primary objective was to evaluate how the Indigenous Healing and Seeking Safety (IHSS) model impacted residential addiction treatment program completion rates. Our secondary objective was to evaluate health service use 6 months before and 6 months after residential treatment for clients who attended the program before and after implementing IHSS.

Methods

We observed clients of the Benbowopka Residential Treatment before IHSS implementation (from April 2013 to March 31, 2016) and after IHSS implementation (from January 1, 2018 – March 31, 2020). The program data were linked to health administration data, including the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) physician billing, the Registered Persons Database (RPDB), the National Ambulatory Care Reporting System (NACRS), and the Discharge Abstract Database (DAD). Chi-square tests were used to compare patient characteristics in the no-IHSS and IHSS groups. We used logistic regression to estimate the association between IHSS and treatment completion. We used generalized estimating equation (GEE) regression model to evaluate health service use (including primary care visits, ED visits overall and for substance use, hospitalizations and mental health visits), Results: There were 266 patients in the no-IHSS group and 136 in the IHSS group. After adjusting for individual characteristics, we observed that IHSS was associated with increased program completion rates (odds ratio = 1.95, 95% CI 1.02-3.70). There was no significant association between IHSS patients’ health service use at time one or time two. Primary care visits time 1: aOR 0.55, 95%CI 0.72-1.13, time 2: aOR 1.13, 95%CI 0.79-1.23; ED visits overall time 1: aOR 0.91, 95%CI 0.67-1.23, time 2: aOR 1.06, 95%CI 0.75-1.50; ED visits for substance use time 1: aOR 0.81, 95%CI 0.47-1.39, time 2: aOR 0.79, 95%CI 0.37-1.54; Hospitalizations time 1: aOR 0.78, 95%CI 0.41-1.47, time 2: aOR 0.76, 95%CI 0.32-1.80; Mental health visits time 1: aOR 0.66, 95%CI 0.46-0.96, time 2: aOR 0.92 95%CI 0.7-1.40.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that IHSS positively influenced program completion but had no significant effect on health service use.

Trial registration

This study was registered with clinicaltrials.gov (identifier number NCT04604574). First registration 10/27/2020.
Genome-wide analysis of genes encoding core components of the ubiquitin system during cerebral cortex development
Authors: Bouron Alexandre , Fauvarque Marie-Odile
Published: August 2022

Ubiquitination involves three types of enzymes (E1, E2, and E3) that sequentially attach ubiquitin (Ub) to target proteins. This posttranslational modification controls key cellular processes, such as the degradation, endocytosis, subcellular localization and activity of proteins. Ubiquitination, which can be reversed by deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), plays important roles during brain development. Furthermore, deregulation of the Ub system is linked to the pathogenesis of various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders. We used a publicly available RNA-seq database to perform an extensive genome-wide gene expression analysis of the core components of the ubiquitination machinery, covering Ub genes as well as E1, E2, E3 and DUB genes. The ubiquitination network was governed by only Uba1 and Ube2m, the predominant E1 and E2 genes, respectively; their expression was positively regulated during cortical formation. The principal genes encoding HECT (homologous to the E6-AP carboxyl terminus), RBR (RING-in-between-RING), and RING (really interesting new gene) E3 Ub ligases were also highly regulated. Pja1, Dtx3 (RING ligases) and Stub1 (U-box RING) were the most highly expressed E3 Ub ligase genes and displayed distinct developmental expression patterns. Moreover, more than 80 DUB genes were expressed during corticogenesis, with two prominent genes, Uch-l1 and Usp22, showing highly upregulated expression. Several components of the Ub system overexpressed in cancers were also highly expressed in the cerebral cortex under conditions not related to tumour formation or progression. Altogether, this work provides an in-depth overview of transcriptomic changes during embryonic formation of the cerebral cortex. The data also offer new insight into the characterization of the Ub system and may contribute to a better understanding of its involvement in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Genome-wide profiling of 5-hydroxymethylcytosines in circulating cell-free DNA reveals population-specific pathways in the development of multiple myeloma
Authors: Chiu Brian C.-H. , Zhang Zhou , Derman Benjamin A. , Karpus Jason , Luo Liangzhi , Zhang Sheng , Langerman Spencer S. , Sukhanova Madina , Bhatti Parveen , Jakubowiak Andrzej , He Chuan , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2022

Multiple myeloma (MM) and its precursors monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and smoldering myeloma (SMM) are 2–3 times more common in African Americans (AA) than European Americans (EA). Although epigenetic changes are well recognized in the context of myeloma cell biology, the contribution of 5-hydroxymethylcytosines (5hmC) to racial disparities in MM is unknown. Using the 5hmC-Seal and next-generation sequencing, we profiled genome-wide 5hmC in circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from 342 newly diagnosed patients with MM (n = 294), SMM (n = 18), and MGUS (n = 30). We compared differential 5hmC modifications between MM and its precursors among 227 EA and 115 AA patients. The captured 5hmC modifications in cfDNA were found to be enriched in B-cell and T-cell-derived histone modifications marking enhancers. Of the top 500 gene bodies with differential 5hmC levels between MM and SMM/MGUS, the majority (94.8%) were distinct between EA and AA and enriched with population-specific pathways, including amino acid metabolism in AA and mainly cancer-related signaling pathways in EA. These findings improved our understanding of the epigenetic contribution to racial disparities in MM and suggest epigenetic pathways that could be exploited as novel preventive strategies in high-risk populations.
Serologic response and safety of COVID-19 vaccination in HSCT or CAR T-cell recipients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ge Chenghao , Du Kelei , Luo Mingjie , Shen Kaini , Zhou Yangzhong , Guo Kaiyuan , Liu Yang , Yin Chen , Li Yi , Li Guanqiao , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: August 2022

Background

Patients receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR T-cell) therapy are immunocompromised and at high risk of viral infection, including SAR2-CoV-2 infection. However, the effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 vaccines in these recipients is not well characterized. The present meta-analysis evaluated the serologic response and safety of COVID-19 vaccines in these population.

Methods

Literature databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, MedRvix and BioRvix) were searched for original studies with serologic response post COVID-19 vaccination in HSCT or CAR T-cell recipients published until July 14, 2022. The analysis included 27 observational studies with a total of 2899 patients receiving allogeneic HSCT (2506), autologous HSCT (286) or CAR T-cell therapy (107), and 683 healthy participants with serologic response data. Random effects models were used to pool the rate of serologic response to COVID-19 vaccination in HSCT or CAR T-cell recipients and odds ratio comparing with healthy controls.

Results

The pooled seropositivity rates in HSCT and CAR T-cell recipients were 0.624 [0.506–0.729] for one dose, 0.745 [0.712–0.776] for two doses. The rates were significantly lower than those in healthy controls (nearly 100%). In subgroup analysis, CAR T-cell recipients exhibited an even lower seroconversion rate (one dose: 0.204 [0.094–0.386]; two doses: 0.277 [0.190–0.386]) than HSCT counterparts (one dose: 0.779 [0.666–0.862]; two doses: 0.793 [0.762–0.821]). The rates were comparable between autologous and allogeneic HSCT recipients. Other possible impact factors related to seropositivity were time interval between therapy and vaccination, use of immunosuppressive drugs and immune cell counts. Most vaccine-related adverse effects were mild and resolvable, comparable to general population.

Conclusions

This analysis revealed a diminished response to COVID-19 vaccines in HSCT or CAR T-cell recipients. Our findings may inform regular COVID-19 vaccination at appropriate intervals after HSCT or CAR T-cell therapy.
Structure and character analysis of cotton response regulator genes family reveals that GhRR7 responses to draught stress
Authors: Zhao Lanjie , Guo Lixue , Lu Xuke , Malik Waqar Afzal , Zhang Yuexin , Wang Jing , Chen Xiugui , Wang Shuai , Wang Junjuan , Wang Delong , Ye Wuwei
Published: August 2022

Background

Cytokinin signal transduction is mediated by a two-component system (TCS). Two-component systems are utilized in plant responses to hormones as well as to biotic and abiotic environmental stimuli. In plants, response regulatory genes (RRs) are one of the main members of the two-component system (TCS).

Method

From the aspects of gene structure, evolution mode, expression type, regulatory network and gene function, the evolution process and role of RR genes in the evolution of the cotton genome were analyzed.

Result

A total of 284 RR genes in four cotton species were identified. Including 1049 orthologous/paralogous gene pairs were identified, most of which were whole genome duplication (WGD). The RR genes promoter elements contain phytohormone responses and abiotic or biotic stress-related cis-elements. Expression analysis showed that RR genes family may be negatively regulate and involved in salt stress and drought stress in plants. Protein regulatory network analysis showed that RR family proteins are involved in regulating the DNA-binding transcription factor activity (COG5641) pathway and HP kinase pathways. VIGS analysis showed that the GhRR7 gene may be in the same regulatory pathway as GhAHP5 and GhPHYB, ultimately negatively regulating cotton drought stress by regulating POD, SOD, CAT, H2O2 and other reactive oxygen removal systems.

Conclusion

This study is the first to gain insight into RR gene members in cotton. Our research lays the foundation for discovering the genes related to drought and salt tolerance and creating new cotton germplasm materials for drought and salt tolerance.
Panama in Black
Authors: Corinealdi Kaysha
Published: August 2022

In Panama in Black, Kaysha Corinealdi traces the multigenerational activism of Afro-Caribbean Panamanians as they forged diasporic communities in Panama and the United States throughout the twentieth century. Drawing on a rich array of sources including speeches, yearbooks, photographs, government reports, radio broadcasts, newspaper editorials, and oral histories, Corinealdi presents the Panamanian isthmus as a crucial site in the making of an Afro-diasporic world that linked cities and towns like Colón, Kingston, Panamá City, Brooklyn, Bridgetown, and La Boca. In Panama, Afro-Caribbean Panamanians created a diasporic worldview of the Caribbean that privileged the potential of Black innovation. Corinealdi maps this innovation by examining the longest-running Black newspaper in Central America, the rise of civic associations created to counter policies that stripped Afro-Caribbean Panamanians of citizenship, the creation of scholarship-granting organizations that supported the education of Black students, and the emergence of national conferences and organizations that linked anti-imperialism and Black liberation. By showing how Afro-Caribbean Panamanians used these methods to navigate anti-Blackness, xenophobia, and white supremacy, Corinealdi offers a new mode of understanding activism, community, and diaspora formation.
Modern Hearing Preservation Outcomes After Vestibular Schwannoma Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Authors: Berger Assaf , Alzate Juan Diego , Bernstein Kenneth , Mullen Reed , McMenomey Sean , Jethanemest Daniel , Friedmann David R. , Smouha Eric , Sulman Erik P. , Silverman Joshua S. , Roland J. Thomas , Golfinos John G. , Kondziolka Douglas
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND:

For patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has proven effective in controlling tumor growth while hearing preservation remains a key goal.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate hearing outcomes in the modern era of cochlear dose restriction.

METHODS:

During the years 2013 to 2018, 353 patients underwent Gamma knife surgery for VS at our institution. We followed 175 patients with pre-SRS serviceable hearing (Gardner–Robertson Score, GR 1 and 2). Volumetric and dosimetry data were collected, including biological effective dose, integral doses of total and intracanalicular tumor components, and hearing outcomes.

RESULTS:

The mean age was 56 years, 74 patients (42%) had a baseline GR of 2, and the mean cochlear dose was 3.5 Gy. The time to serviceable hearing loss (GR 3-4) was 38 months (95% CI 26-46), with 77% and 62% hearing preservation in the first and second years, respectively. Patients optimal for best hearing outcomes were younger than 58 years with a baseline GR of 1, free canal space ≥0.041 cc (diameter of 4.5 mm), and mean cochlear dose <3.1 Gy. For such patients, hearing preservation rates were 92% by 12 months and 81% by 2 years, staying stable for >5 years post-SRS, significantly higher than the rest of the population.

CONCLUSION:

Hearing preservation after SRS for patients with VS with serviceable hearing is correlated to the specific baseline GR score (1 or 2), age, cochlear dose, and biological effective dose. Increased tumor-free canal space correlates with better outcomes. The most durable hearing preservation correlates with factors commonly associated with smaller tumors away from the cochlea.
Collaborative Platforms in the European Union from the Standpoint of Sustainable Development
Authors: Moskal Anna
Published: August 2022

This publication addresses the issue of the collaborative economy in the European Union from the perspective of sustainable development. From the simple idea of renting, lending, reselling, or swapping underutilised resources (e.g., tools, space, time, and skills), the collaborative economy developed into a complex, novel, and innovative economic sector which has completely revolutionised traditional markets and shifted consumer preferences and lifestyles. Today’s collaborative economy consists of a wide array of business models which vary significantly in their ideological roots, values, technological resources, size, and legal forms. This multifaceted socio-economic phenomenon has become a subject of fierce debate in both media and academic discourses. While supporters of the collaborative economy firmly believe that it is a promising opportunity for individual activism, sustainable development and environmental progress, opponents call it a misleading mystification of an unruly and unjustly idealised “low cost” access economy. Whether collaborative platforms should be seen as profit-driven corporations which hide their disruptive business model under greenwashing slogans, or as pioneers in transforming commercial business models into sustainable and environmentally friendly companies, is highly disputed.
Bir Mikro Tarih Anlatısı Olarak Ahtem Seitablayev Sineması’nda Kırım Tatar Toplumunun Temsili
Authors: SÜAR ORAL Selin
Published: August 2022

1990’lardan itibaren kimlik kavramının birçok disipline etki etmesi sonucu gündelik olayların ve sıradan insanlarının hikayelerinin anlatıldığı; makro anlatıda ötekileştirilen, edilgen kılınan veya yok sayılan yerel kültürlerin ve farklı kimliklerin temsillerinin dolaşıma sokulduğu bir süreç başlamıştır. Bir iletişim biçimi ve popüler medya ürünü olarak sinema, kitlesel ve tecimsel boyutu nedeniyle makro tarih anlatısı üzerinden ilerleyerek hâkim ideolojilerin etkileriyle yapılandırılmış, ancak bağımsız sinemanın yükselişe geçmesiyle birlikte yeni temsil olanakları ortaya çıkmıştır. Bu çalışma, sinema alanyazınında alternatif bir söylem oluşturarak mikro tarih anlatısı kuran Ahtem Seitablayev’in yönetmenliğini üstlendiği Kaytarma (Khaytarma/ Хайтарма) ve Başkasının Duası (Chuzhaya Molitva/ Чужа Молитва) filmleri üzerinden Kırım-Tatar toplumunun popüler medyadaki temsiline odaklanmakta ve toplumun baskın kültürel yapısını eleştirel bir söylemle analiz etmeye çalışmaktadır. Amaçlı örnekleme olarak seçilen filmler, yönetmenin İkinci Dünya Savaşı esnasında Kırım Tatar halkının üstlendiği roller açısından resmi tarih alanında bilinmeyen öykülere ışık tutması sayesinde egemen söylemin dışında kalan mikro tarih anlatısına zemin oluşturmaktadır.
CFD Simulation of Solid and Non-Newtonian Fluid Two-Phase Flow in Anaerobic Digesters
Authors: Wu Binxin , Deng Xin , Li Weixiang , Kariyama Ibrahim Denka , Chen Long , Yu Shaoqi , Qi Rui , Zhang Hao , Li Xiaxia , Lin Jian
Published: August 2022

A CFD model is used to study solid suspension in anaerobic digesters.

Simulations of solid and non-Newtonian fluid two-phase flow are performed.

Minimum impeller speed for avoiding solid accumulation in the digester is proposed.

Major issues arising from the simulation results are discussed.

Abstract. A principal goal of solid-liquid flow modelling is to predict the minimum power consumption for avoiding solid accumulation in stirred reactors. In this study, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique was used to characterize solid suspension in anaerobic digesters with mechanical mixers where the liquid phase exhibited non-Newtonian fluid behavior. The commercial CFD code Fluent 16.0 was utilized to solve the multiphase flow. The impeller torque and cloud height as a function of impeller speed in a small tank were validated against the experimental data from the literature. The simulation results demonstrate that the impeller torques from CFD modeling match perfectly with those from measurements, and that the predicted cloud heights agree reasonably well with the measured ones. The solid-liquid flow in a large egg-shaped digester with a mechanical draft tube mixer was modeled where the impeller speed ranged from 400 to 750 rpm at 50 rpm increments. A combination of tangent line and uniformity index methods was used to predict the minimum impeller speed to maintain solid suspension in the digester. Moreover, the major issues arising from results were discussed. Keywords: Anaerobic digester, Computational fluid dynamics, Multiphase flow, Non-Newtonian fluid, Solid suspension.
Numerical study of sodalime and PDMS hemisphere photonic structures for radiative cooling of silicon solar cells
Authors: Silva-Oelker Gerardo , Jaramillo-Fernandez Juliana
Published: August 2022

This paper numerically explores the capability of an all-photonic approach to enhance radiative cooling, UV and sub-bandgap reflection, and light trapping as a path to improve solar cells efficiency. The structure is based on hemispheres and a flat surface placed on a silicon photovoltaic cell. The study considers two materials commonly used in panel covers: soda-lime glass and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). A numerical approach based on the rigorous coupled-wave analysis method and an electrical-thermal model predicts maximum power improvements of 18.1% and 19.7% when using soda-lime and PDMS hemispheres, respectively, as well as a cell’s temperature reduction of 4 °C, compared to a glass encapsulated solar cell.
Wide-range and highly sensitive pH sensor based on a figure-eight fiber structure coated with copper/polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel
Authors: Salman Ansam M. , Al-Hayali Sarah Kadhim , Al-Janabi Abdul Hadi
Published: August 2022

Construction of pH sensors based on optical fiber encapsulated copper (Cu-NPs) has been accomplished. Briefly, a length of single-mode fiber (SMF) of about 25 cm has been wrapped in two rings by twisting one side of the fiber on the other from both ends to form a figure-eight shape. To upsurge the sensitivity, the sensor configuration has been immobilized with copper nanoparticles/polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel (Cu/PVA) composite. The Cu/PVA composite was employed to shape a membrane structure on the sensing active length by laminating it using the dip-coating method. The wavelength interrogation method was employed to evaluate the sensitivity of the fabricated pH sensor. The fabricated fiber pH sensor exhibits a sigmoidal response above a wide range of pH from 1 to 14. The result displays a superior sensitivity of ∼4.8 nm/pH for a range of 1-7 pH and 3.86 nm/pH for the range of 8-14 pH with an excellent linear response. Besides the great sensitivity, the dual-parameters measurement of pH and refractive index was effectively accomplished with perfect stability. The proposed fiber sensor possesses a superior performance compared with the other sensors.
100 kW ultra high power fiber laser
Authors: Sun Jiapo , Liu Lie , Han Lianghua , Zhu Qixin , Shen Xiang , Yang Ke
Published: August 2022

Based on the self-developed non-photodarkening large mode field gain fiber and the 976 nm wavelength-locked high-power and high-brightness pump source, and using the secondary fiber power combining technology, a high-performance 100kW fiber laser in China was built, realizing high-order mode and non-linear effect suppression. The maximum output power of the laser can reach 101.65 kW, the center wavelength is 1080 ± 5 nm, the spectral bandwidth is (3dB) 5-8 nm, the output fiber core diameter is 400µm, the beam quality BPP is 19.28 mm*mrad, and the laser power instability is ±1.1%. Its laser non-destructive cladding stripping technology, distortion-free taper technology, inclined multi-die beam combining technology and circular inner cladding modification design have all reached the international advanced level.
Single-cell multiomics analyses of spindle-transferred human embryos suggest a mostly normal embryonic development
Authors: Qi Shuyue , Wang Wei , Xue Xiaohui , Lu Zhuo , Yan Jia , Li Yunfei , Zhang Yu , Shu Mingming , Song Chunlan , Wang Qihang , Chuai Yunhai , Zhai Xinyu , Han Shujie , Tang Fuchou , Shang Wei
Published: August 2022

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations are often associated with incurable diseases and lead to detectable pathogenic variants in 1 out of 200 babies. Uncoupling of the inheritance of mtDNA and the nuclear genome by spindle transfer (ST) can potentially prevent the transmission of mtDNA mutations from mother to offspring. However, no well-established studies have critically assessed the safety of this technique. Here, using single-cell triple omics sequencing method, we systematically analyzed the genome (copy number variation), DNA methylome, and transcriptome of ST and control blastocysts. The results showed that, compared to that in control embryos, the percentage of aneuploid cells in ST embryos did not significantly change. The epiblast, primitive endoderm, and trophectoderm (TE) of ST blastocysts presented RNA expression profiles that were comparable to those of control blastocysts. However, the DNA demethylation process in TE cells of ST blastocysts was slightly slower than that in the control blastocysts. Collectively, our results suggest that ST seems generally safe for embryonic development, with a relatively minor delay in the DNA demethylation process at the blastocyst stage.
Reversible data hiding with dual pixel-value-ordering and minimum prediction error expansion
Authors: Abdul Wahed Md. , Nyeem Hussain
Published: August 2022

Pixel Value Ordering (PVO) holds an impressive property for high fidelity Reversible Data Hiding (RDH). In this paper, we introduce a dual PVO (dPVO) for Prediction Error Expansion (PEE), and thereby develop a new RDH scheme to offer a better rate-distortion performance. Particularly, we propose to embed in two phases:forwardandbackward. In theforwardphase, PVO with classic PEE is applied to every non-overlapping image block of size 1 × 3. In thebackwardphase,minimum-setandmaximum-setof pixels are determined from the pixels predicted in the forward phase. Theminimumset only contains the lowest predicted pixels and themaximumset contains the largest predicted pixels of each image block. Proposed dPVO with PEE is then applied to both sets, so that the pixel values ofminimumset are increased and that of themaximumset are decreased by a unit value. Thereby, the pixels predicted in theforwardembedding can partially be restored to their original values resulting in both a better embedded image quality and a higher embedding rate. Experimental results have recorded a promising rate-distortion performance of our scheme with a significant improvement of embedded image quality at higher embedding rates compared to the popular and state-of-the-art PVO-based RDH schemes.
Global tourist flows under the Belt and Road Initiative: A complex network analysis
Authors: Shymanskyi Oleksandr , Wang Jue , Pu Yue
Published: August 2022

This study applies complex network analysis to examine global tourist flows network in the context of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Using tourist flows data between 221 countries/regions over 1995–2018, we investigate the nature and development patterns of structural properties of global network as well as factors influencing its formation. The descriptive analysis indicates that global tourist network was a sparse network with small world network characteristics. According to centrality characteristics, China showed the most influence in the BRI group, while Germany and the United States possessed key roles among non-BRI countries/regions. Exploratory analysis demonstrated significant influence of gravity variables in global, BRI and non-BRI tourist networks. This research advances existing tourism theory and provides practical implications for policymakers.
Vertical migration of Haemonchus sp. infectant larvae on Stylosanthes spp. and Brachiaria brizantha (Syn. Urochloa brizantha) cv. Marandu forage
Authors: Urzedo Mylla Christhie Costa , Manoel Eduardo Rozalino Santos  , Ligia Pinho Cuccato  , Suyanne Aparecida Silva Macedo  , Rosalinski-Moraes Fernanda
Published: August 2022

The present work aimed to evaluate the influence of Stylosanthes spp. (Campo Grande© styles) and Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu in the vertical migration of Haemonchus spp. infective larvae, in the region of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais. Seeds of Stylosanthes spp. and Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu were planted in 50 pots of five liters (20 cm diameter) evenly disposed in an area of the Capim Branco Experimental Farm, Federal University of Uberlândia. When both species reached the minimum height of 20 cm, the pots were experimentally contaminated with sheep feces coprocultures. Samplings were performed, with complete removal of the vegetal material contained in the pots, on days one, three, six, 10 and 14 after contamination. Nematoids were recovered from the plant samples by thermo and hydrotropism, counted under an optical microscope and identified. For statistical analysis, the data were analyzed in a completely randomized design (DIC) in a 2X5 factorial scheme (two fodder species X 5 collection dates). No effect of the forage species was observed on the number of L3 of Haemonchus sp. recovered in the feces (p = 0.7790), upper stratum (p = 0.1755) or lower stratum (p = 0.7883) of the forage, however, there was a significant decrease in the number of L3 found with the passing of the days. When comparing the mean L3 recovered in the upper (0.06±0.31 L3) and lower (2.94±0.39) strata, a higher number of larvae was observed in the lower stratum (p < 0.0001). Therefore, in both forage species studied, the upper stratum of the plants, preferably pastured by the animals, remained with less contamination of infective larvae and the contamination tended to decrease over the days.
Organic onion growth, yield and storage improved by foliar sprays of microalgae and fulvic acid as a natural biofertilizer
Authors: Gemin Luiz Gabriel , Mógor Átila Francisco , De Oliveira Amatussi Juliana , Bochetti de Lara Gabriel , Mógor Gilda
Published: August 2022

The use of microalgae as natural biofertilizer in horticulture has recently been reported, while the use of humic substances is widespread. However, the combined use of microalgae with humic substances applied to plant leaves is still unexploited. Thus, the objective of this work was to combine fulvic acid (FA) with the Scenedesmus subspicatus microalga biomass (SC) as a natural biofertilizer applied via leaf in two onion cultivars in organic system. Four experiments were conducted: i) bioassays to verify the bioactive effect of FA, SC and combinations using the Vigna radiata model plant; ii) greenhouse pot experiment with foliar applications of FA, SC and combination in two onion cultivars; iii) field experiment in organic system with foliar applications of FA, SC and combination in two onion cultivars; and iv) onion bulb storage experiment. The bioactive effect of SC, FA and their combinations was identified by promoting changes in root growth of V. radiata. In pots, treatments containing FA, SC and combination promoted increase in fresh and dry leaf mass. The foliar application of FA, SC and combination promoted an increase in field bulb productivity, reduced mass loss in stored bulbs and increased carbohydrate, amino acid and protein contents in onion bulbs.
Effect of oral health intervention program on the self oral care of children attending childcare facilities: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Lee Su-Jung , Jang Jong-Hwa
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to conduct a quasi-experimental study for assessing the effects of an oral health intervention program (OHIP), on the self-management of oral health in children attending childcare centers. The participants recruited were 83 children from two childcare centers, who were allocated to the intervention and control groups. The intervention group received the OHIP. At baseline, a self-reported survey of parents was conducted. In addition, the oral status of the children at baseline and at 5 weeks was evaluated. Their brushing behavior was assessed once a week and every day during the OHIP intervention period and at home, respectively. After the follow-up at 12 weeks, dental plaque index (PI) was measured and two-way repeated measures analysis of variance was performed. The PI of the intervention group significantly decreased at week 5, compared to the baseline (1.90 ± 0.53, p < 0.001). Despite a substantial increase in week 12 (2.67 ± 0.08, p < 0.001), the PI was significantly lower than that of the control group (3.37 ± 0.60). The OHIP was effective in reducing the PI and modifying the brushing behavior among children. It is necessary to develop and expand a systematic oral health education program to promote self-management of oral health in children.
Ellagic acid on the quality of the adhesive interface of class I composite resin restorations after aging
Authors: Araújo Pierote Josué Junior , Trazzi Prieto Lucia , Marques Pires Júlia , Frazão Câmara João Victor , Pimenta de Araújo Cíntia Tereza , Ferreira Barbosa Isabel , Damiana da Silveira Pereira Gisele , Monteiro Monnerat Tinoco Justine , Feres de Carvalho Vianna Renato , Fried Hana , Groisman Sonia , Maffei Sartini Paulillo Luis Alexandre
Published: August 2022

Objective: To evaluate the effect of ellagic acid on the inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase by analyzing the quality of the adhesive interface with bond strength measures in periods of 24 hours and six months of storage. Method: 40 healthy human third molars were prepared with class I cavities (5x4x3mm). The teeth were divided into four experimental groups: Group 1- without application of ellagic acid and storage time of 24 hours; Group 2- with ellagic acid/24 hours; G3- without ellagic acid/six months; Group 4- with ellagic acid/six months. Then, the cavities were restored with Single Bond Universal adhesive and Z350 composite resin, with and without the previous application of ellagic acid. Subsequently, hourglass-shaped specimens were obtained and subjected to the bond strength (BS) test (n = 10) in a universal testing machine. The bond test was performed after 24 hours and six months of storage. For the standard evaluation (n = 3) the samples were infiltrated with silver nitrate and placed in a developing solution for analysis in a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The data obtained were analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric test, showing a statistically significant difference. Results: The highest bond strength values were found for the 24-hour groups followed by the groups with six months of storage. For nano-infiltration, groups G1 and G2 showed lower infiltration than groups G3 and G4. Conclusion: The previous application of ellagic acid did not affect the BS of the adhesive interface of the adhesive system analyzed, regardless of storage time.
Pedagogía universitaria e historia en Heidegger, 1928–1930
Authors: Lythgoe Esteban
Published: August 2022

En el presente artículo abordaremos el desarrollo de la cuestión pedagógica entre en la obra de Heidegger entre 1928 y 1930. Al comparar las consideraciones pedagógicas de este período con sus textos previos, especialmente Ser y tiempo, observamos un profundo cambio en su tratamiento. Consideramos que éste se debe a la reconsideración de la relación entre la visión de mundo y la filosofía, basada en el giro metontológico que se propone al final del curso sobre lógica de 1928. Asimismo, rechazaremos la existencia de un programa pedagógico platónico en este período, y que, durante estos años, la defensa de la tradicional Bildung universitaria se apoyará en los planteos kantianos de la “arquitectónica de la razón pura.”
Literatura, capitalismo y revolución
Authors: Martínez Matías Paloma
Published: August 2022

Este trabajo analiza la relación que Walter Benjamin establece entre la crítica literaria y la política a través del estudio de los dos ensayos más relevantes que dedica a la creación literaria en Francia y en los que concede una posición destacada al surrealismo. En ambos ensayos Benjamin examina cuál es la función que los intelectuales ejercen en la sociedad capitalista adoptando una posición política que se pronuncia abiertamente por la vía revolucionaria para resolver los problemas estructurales que genera el capitalismo. Por ello, sus reflexiones sobre la novela francesa del siglo XX, así como su interpretación de la novela de André Breton, Nadja, se utilizarán como base para ofrecer una respuesta provisional a cuestiones que afectan a la visión de Benjamin sobre la presunta autonomía del arte, a los referentes teóricos que determinan su comprensión de la revolución y al modo en que concibe en este contexto el quehacer de la crítica literaria.
Las implicancias del pragmatismo para la educación
Authors: Dewey John , Campeotto Fabio , Saharrea Juan Manuel , Viale Claudio Marcelo
Published: August 2022

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Advances in novel activation methods to perform green organic synthesis using recyclable heteropolyacid catalysis
Authors: Ruiz Diego M. , Pasquale Gustavo A. , Martínez José J. , Romanelli Gustavo P.
Published: August 2022

Highly functionalized, high value added bioactive molecules are generally obtained by synthetic procedures that are highly selective, economical, with high atom economy, and environmentally friendly. Following these guidelines, the use of recoverable solid catalysts, nonpolluting substrates, or toxic organic solvent contributes greatly to these demands. In the last three decades, heteropolyacids (HPAs) and its derivatives have received great attention as recyclable solid catalysts, due to their strong Brönsted acidity, excellent oxidizing capacity under mild conditions, and various reuse cycles without appreciable loss of their catalytic activity. However, new activation methods should be investigated to improve the sustainability of a process using HPAs. In this review, we report the latest advances associated with the synthesis of potentially bioactive molecules using more energy efficient alternatives such as microwaves, ultrasound, mechanochemistry, and photochemistry to minimize the energy consumption associated with organic synthesis. The transformations studied include construction reaction, heterocycle synthesis, selective oxidation, and biomass recovery.
The investigation of the frequency of the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Afsharinasab Mehdi , Akbari Amir Hossein , Mirzaei Vahid , Mahmoodi Mehdi , Hajizadeh Mohammad Reza , Amri Jamal , Khoshdel Alireza
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) has different phenotypes. Evidence suggests that the abundance of each of these phenotypes may be associated with a disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the frequency of AAT phenotypes in patients with liver cirrhosis as well as in healthy individuals.

Methods

In this study, 42 patients with liver cirrhosis were selected. The results of the previous research done by the researcher on healthy individuals were used to construct the control group. After obtaining informed consent, 5 mL of fasting venous blood sample was taken, and phenotypes were analyzed by isoelectric focusing. Data were analyzed using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests at a significant level of 0.05.

Results

The results of this study indicated that all 42 healthy subjects had an MM allele (100%). However, among 42 patients, 35 (83.3%) had an MM allele, 5 (11.9%) had an MS allele, and 2 (4.8%) had MZ allele. The difference between the two groups was significant (p=0.02). There was no difference between men and women in the allele type (p=0.557).

Conclusions

This study revealed that MS and MZ alleles were observed only in patients with liver cirrhosis, and none of these alleles were found in healthy subjects. Therefore, MS and MZ alleles can be further investigated as risk factors for liver cirrhosis.
Decision-theoretic foundations for statistical causality: Response to Shpitser
Authors: Dawid Philip
Published: August 2022

I thank Ilya Shpitser for his comments on my article, and discuss the use of models with restricted interventions.
Tracing Maize History in Northern Iroquoia Through Radiocarbon Date Summed Probability Distributions
Authors: Hart John P.
Published: August 2022

The evolution of maize as an organism, its spread as an agricultural crop, and the evolution of Native American maize-based agricultural systems are topics of research throughout the Western Hemisphere. Maize was adopted in Northern Iroquoia, comprising portions of present-day New York, Ontario, and Québec by 300 BC. By the fourteenth-century AD, maize accounted for >50 to >70% of ancestral Iroquoian diets. Was this major commitment to maize agriculture a gradual incremental evolution, or was there a rapid increase in commitment to maize-based agriculture around AD 1000 as traditional archaeological narratives suggest? Summed probability distributions of direct radiocarbon dates on maize macrobotanical remains and cooking residues containing maize phytoliths combined with maize macrobotanical maize densities at sites and previously published stable isotope values on human bone collagen used with Bayesian dietary mixing models and cooking residues show an initial increase in maize use at AD 1200–1250 and a subsequent increase at AD 1400–1450. These results indicate maize history in Northern Iroquoia followed an exponential growth curve, consistent with Rindos’ (1984) model of agricultural evolution.
Extracellular laccase activity among Ganoderma and Coriolopsis species grown on lignocellulosic wastes
Authors: Han Mei-Ling , Yang Jing , Ma Jian-Jun , Wang Chun-Rui , Chen Si-Yu , Xu Ming-Xin , Yang Qi-Yue , Bian Lu-Sen , Yan Xun-You , An Qi
Published: August 2022

The extensive application of laccase in various fields depends on the supply of a large amount of laccase with high activity and low cost. Interest on the screening of fungal strains suitable for obtaining massive high-activity laccase in solid-state fermentation with suitable low-cost lignocellulosic wastes has increased. The present work determined the laccase secretion from different species belonging to genera Ganoderma and Coriolopsis fermented on different lignocellulosic wastes. Maximal laccase activity was obtained from Ganoderma lingzhi Han 1345 grown on rice straw for 9 days and indicated the capacity of secreting laccase of G. lingzhi Han 1345 was superior to that of Coriolopsis trogii Han 1211, C. strumosa Han 1356, and G. applanatum Han 1578. The presence of cottonseed hull was more favorable for Coriolopsis species secreting laccase, while Ganoderma species were more preferred to secrete laccase on rice straw. Further, the consistent substrate preference in laccase production of different species in the same genus was first exhibited. The results are useful to screen and obtain new species with superior capacity of secreting laccase and suitable low-cost lignocellulosic wastes as fermentation substrate for further industrial application of laccase.