bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring partnership synergy and functioning: Multi-stakeholder collaboration in primary health care
Authors: Loban Ekaterina , Scott Cathie , Lewis Virginia , Haggerty Jeannie
Published: May 2021

In primary health care, multi-stakeholder partnerships between clinicians, policy makers, academic representatives and other stakeholders to improve service delivery are becoming more common. Literature on processes and approaches that enhance partnership effectiveness is growing. However, evidence on the performance of the measures of partnership functioning and the achievement of desired outcomes is still limited, due to the field’s definitional ambiguity and the challenges inherent in measuring complex and evolving collaborative processes. Reliable measures are needed for external or self-assessment of partnership functioning, as intermediate steps in the achievement of desired outcomes. We adapted the Partnership Self-Assessment Tool (PSAT) and distributed it to multiple stakeholders within five partnerships in Canada and Australia. The instrument contained a number of partnership functioning sub-scales. New sub-scales were developed for the domains of communication and external environment. Partnership synergy was assessed using modified Partnership Synergy Processes and Partnership Synergy Outcomes sub-scales, and a combined Partnership Synergy scale. Ranking by partnership scores was compared with independent ranks based on a qualitative evaluation of the partnerships’ development. 55 (90%) questionnaires were returned. Our results indicate that the instrument was capable of discriminating between different levels of dimensions of partnership functioning and partnership synergy even in a limited sample. The sub-scales were sufficiently reliable to have the capacity to discriminate between individuals, and between partnerships. There was negligible difference in the correlations between different partnership functioning dimensions and Partnership Synergy sub-scales. The Communication and External Environment sub-scales did not perform well metrically. The adapted partnership assessment tool is suitable for assessing the achievement of partnership synergy and specific indicators of partnership functioning. Further development of Communication and External Environment sub-scales is warranted. The instrument could be applied to assess internal partnership performance on key indicators across settings, in order to determine if the collaborative process is working well.
Phylogenetic and evolutionary analysis of dengue virus serotypes circulating at the Colombian–Venezuelan border during 2015–2016 and 2018–2019
Authors: Carrillo-Hernandez Marlen Yelitza , Ruiz-Saenz Julian , Jaimes-Villamizar Lucy , Robledo-Restrepo Sara Maria , Martinez-Gutierrez Marlen
Published: May 2021

Dengue is an endemic disease in Colombia. Norte de Santander is a region on the border of Colombia and Venezuela and has reported the co-circulation and simultaneous co-infection of different serotypes of the dengue virus (DENV). This study aimed to conduct a phylogenetic analysis on the origin and genetic diversity of DENV strains circulating in this bordering region. Serum samples were collected from patients who were clinically diagnosed with febrile syndrome associated with dengue during two periods. These samples were tested for DENV and serotyping was performed using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Subsequently, positive samples were amplified and the envelope protein gene of DENV was sequenced. Phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses were performed using the sequences obtained. Basic local alignment search tool analysis confirmed that six and eight sequences belonged to DENV-1 and DENV-2, respectively. The phylogenetic analysis of DENV-1 showed that the sequences belonged to genotype V and clade I; they formed two groups: in the first group, two sequences showed a close phylogenetic relationship with strains from Ecuador and Panama, whereas the other four sequences were grouped with strains from Venezuela and Colombia. In the case of DENV-2, the analysis revealed that the sequences belonged to the Asian–American genotype and clade III. Furthermore, they formed two groups; in the first group, three sequences were grouped with strains from Colombia and Venezuela, whereas the other five were grouped with strains from Venezuela, Colombia and Honduras. This phylogenetic analysis suggests that the geographical proximity between Colombia and Venezuela is favourable for the export and import of different strains among serotypes or clades of the same DENV serotype, which could favour the spread of new outbreaks caused by new strains or genetic variants of this arbovirus. Therefore, this information highlights the importance of monitoring the transmission of DENV at border regions.
The evaluation of COVID-19 prediction precision with a Lyapunov-like exponent
Authors: Mazurek Jiří
Published: May 2021

In the field of machine learning, building models and measuring their performance are two equally important tasks. Currently, measures of precision of regression models’ predictions are usually based on the notion of mean error, where by error we mean a deviation of a prediction from an observation. However, these mean based measures of models’ performance have two drawbacks. Firstly, they ignore the length of the prediction, which is crucial when dealing with chaotic systems, where a small deviation at the beginning grows exponentially with time. Secondly, these measures are not suitable in situations where a prediction is made for a specific point in time (e.g. a date), since they average all errors from the start of the prediction to its end. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to propose a new measure of models’ prediction precision, adivergence exponent, based on the notion of theLyapunov exponentwhich overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks. The proposed approach enables the measuring and comparison of models’ prediction precision for time series with unequal length and a given target date in the framework of chaotic phenomena. Application of the divergence exponent to the evaluation of models’ accuracy is demonstrated by two examples and then a set of selected predictions of COVID-19 spread from other studies is evaluated to show its potential.
The use of telemedicine in the PICU: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Vinadé Chagas Maria Eulália , Rodrigues Moleda Constant Hilda Maria , Cristina Jacovas Vanessa , Castro da Rocha Jacqueline , Galves Crivella Steimetz Carina , Cotta Matte Maria Cristina , de Campos Moreira Taís , Cezar Cabral Felipe
Published: May 2021

The use of telemedicine in ICUs has grown and is becoming increasingly recognized. However, its impact on PICUs remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate whether telemedicine in the PICU has the potential to improve clinical and non-clinical outcomes. PubMed, Scopus, LILACS, and CINAHL electronic databases were searched to identify studies that assessed the impact of telemedicine on clinical outcomes, with no publication date restrictions. The reference lists of the selected articles were hand-searched for additional studies that had not been identified by the initial electronic search. Studies were included if they had a cohort design, used telemedicine, were conducted in PICUs or specialized PICUs, and were published in Portuguese, English, or Spanish. Two groups of reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts for inclusion. The same group of reviewers independently assessed the full-text articles for eligibility and extracted the following information: telecommunication method, intervention characteristics, patient characteristics, sample size, and main results. Studies were meta-analyzed using a random-effects model to estimate the pooled prevalence of PICU mortality and length of PICU stay. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Of 2703 studies initially identified, 2226 had their titles and abstracts screened. Of these, 53 were selected for full-text reading, of which 10 were included and analyzed. The main results of interest were length of PICU stay, number of deaths or mortality rate, and satisfaction of health professionals and family members. The results of meta-analysis show that the mortality rate reduced by 34% with an increase of the length of PICU stay in the PICUs with the use of telemedicine. Family members and health professionals were satisfied with the use of telemedicine. Telemedicine has the potential to improve PICU outcomes, such as mortality rate and family and staff satisfaction. However, it extended length of PICU stay in the studies included in this systematic review.
A marker registration method to improve joint angles computed by constrained inverse kinematics
Authors: Dunne James J. , Uchida Thomas K. , Besier Thor F. , Delp Scott L. , Seth Ajay
Published: May 2021

Accurate computation of joint angles from optical marker data using inverse kinematics methods requires that the locations of markers on a model match the locations of experimental markers on participants. Marker registration is the process of positioning the model markers so that they match the locations of the experimental markers. Markers are typically registered using a graphical user interface (GUI), but this method is subjective and may introduce errors and uncertainty to the calculated joint angles and moments. In this investigation, we use OpenSim to isolate and quantify marker registration–based error from other sources of error by analyzing the gait of a bipedal humanoid robot for which segment geometry, mass properties, and joint angles are known. We then propose a marker registration method that is informed by the orientation of anatomical reference frames derived from surface-mounted optical markers as an alternative to user registration using a GUI. The proposed orientation registration method reduced the average root-mean-square error in both joint angles and joint moments by 67% compared to the user registration method, and eliminated variability among users. Our results show that a systematic method for marker registration that reduces subjective user input can make marker registration more accurate and repeatable.
Determinants and consequences of heavy episodic drinking among female sex workers in Ethiopia: A respondent-driven sampling study
Authors: Amogne Minilik Demissie , Agardh Anette , Abate Ebba , Ahmed Jelaludin , Asamoah Benedict Oppong
Published: May 2021

Background

Female sex workers (FSW), due to their working conditions, have an increased likelihood of heavy episodic drinking (HED), which is associated with risky sexual behavior. Nevertheless the specific contribution of HED to risky sexual behavior among FSWs in Ethiopia is not well documented for prevention activities.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore the determinants and consequences of HED among FSWs in Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study using respondent-driven sampling was conducted among 4886 FSWs in 11 major towns in Ethiopia in 2014. A structured interview was performed, and data were examined using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression analyses.

Results

Most (66%) FSWs consumed alcohol, and the prevalence of HED was 29.1%. Compared to street-based FSWs, those who worked in bars/hotels and local drinking houses had 2.19 and 1.29 times higher odds of HED, respectively. FSWs who started selling sex when younger than 18 years (compared to those who started when older than 25 years) and those who were forced into selling sex had 1.48 and 2.91 times higher odds of HED, respectively. FSWs with more income from selling sex and FSWs who chewed khat reported increased odds of HED. Moreover, FSWs with experience of HED reported 1.27 and 1.44 times higher odds of physical beating and condom breakage/slippage, respectively. Furthermore, the population attributable risk fraction of HED among FSWs showed that 6.2% of physical beating and 8.9% of condom breakage/slippage could be attributed to HED.

Conclusion

In general, several factors increase the experience of HED, and HED in turn increases the likelihood of violence and condom breakage. These factors could inform programs and intervention activities among FSWs populations.
Thermographic imaging of mouse across circadian time reveals body surface temperature elevation associated with non-locomotor body movements
Authors: Shimatani Hiroyuki , Inoue Yuichi , Maekawa Yota , Miyake Takahito , Yamaguchi Yoshiaki , Doi Masao
Published: May 2021

Circadian clocks orchestrate multiple different physiological rhythms in a well-synchronized manner. However, how these separate rhythms are interconnected is not exactly understood. Here, we developed a method that allows for the real-time simultaneous measurement of locomotor activity and body temperature of mice using infrared video camera imaging. As expected from the literature, temporal profiles of body temperature and locomotor activity were positively correlated with each other. Basically, body temperatures were high when animals were in locomotion. However, interestingly, increases in body temperature were not always associated with the appearance of locomotor activity. Video imaging revealed that mice exhibit non-locomotor activities such as grooming and postural adjustments, which alone induce considerable elevation of body temperature. Noticeably, non-locomotor movements always preceded the initiation of locomotor activity. Nevertheless, non-locomotor movements were not always accompanied by locomotor movements, suggesting that non-locomotor movements provide a mechanism of thermoregulation independent of locomotor activity. In addition, in the current study, we also report the development of a machine learning-based recording method for the detection of circadian feeding and drinking behaviors of mice. Our data illustrate the potential utility of thermal video imaging in the investigation of different physiological rhythms.
A proteomic-informed view of the changes induced by loss of cellular adherence: The example of mouse macrophages
Authors: Ramirez Rios Sacnite , Torres Anaelle , Diemer Hélène , Collin-Faure Véronique , Cianférani Sarah , Lafanechère Laurence , Rabilloud Thierry
Published: May 2021

Except cells circulating in the bloodstream, most cells in vertebrates are adherent. Studying the repercussions of adherence per se in cell physiology is thus very difficult to carry out, although it plays an important role in cancer biology, e.g. in the metastasis process. In order to study how adherence impacts major cell functions, we used a murine macrophage cell line. Opposite to the monocyte/macrophage system, where adherence is associated with the acquisition of differentiated functions, these cells can be grown in both adherent or suspension conditions without altering their differentiated functions (phagocytosis and inflammation signaling). We used a proteomic approach to cover a large panel of proteins potentially modified by the adherence status. Targeted experiments were carried out to validate the proteomic results, e.g. on metabolic enzymes, mitochondrial and cytoskeletal proteins. The mitochondrial activity was increased in non-adherent cells compared with adherent cells, without differences in glucose consumption. Concerning the cytoskeleton, a rearrangement of the actin organization (filopodia vs sub-cortical network) and of the microtubule network were observed between adherent and non-adherent cells. Taken together, these data show the mechanisms at play for the modification of the cytoskeleton and also modifications of the metabolic activity between adherent and non-adherent cells.
Community led testing among people who inject drugs: A community centered model to find new cases of HIV and Hepatitis C in Nepal
Authors: Didiya Rajesh , Gyenwali Deepak , Pokhrel Tara Nath , Devkota Sudha , Rai Amrit Bikram , Shedain Purusotam Raj , Sharma Mukunda , Shrestha Madan Kumar , Imran Muhammad , Kadirov Zakir , Dahal Bhawani Prasad , K. C. Prawchan , Ojha Sabir , Pokhrel Khem Narayan
Published: May 2021

Background

People who inject drugs (PWIDs) have sub-optimal HIV and HCV testing as the available testing services are inadequate in low and middle-income countries. We examined a model of Community-Led Testing (CLT) in Nepal, exploring the feasibility of HIV and HCV testing by trained lay service providers who had similar backgrounds to those of PWIDs. We also assessed the prevalence of HIV and HCV within this study population and the associated risk factors among PWIDs.

Methods

A mix-methods cross-sectional study was conducted among 1029 PWIDs in five major districts of Nepal from July 2019 to February 2020. Trained PWID peers performed the screening for HIV and HCV using Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) kits. Acceptability and feasibility of the testing was assessed. The participants’ sociodemographic characteristics and injecting and non-injecting risk characteristics were determined. The association of risk and prevention characteristics with testing results were assessed using multiple logistic regression.

Results

PWIDs shared that the test providers were friendly and competent in counseling and testing. Of total PWIDs (n = 1,029), 20.6% were HCV-positive and 0.2% were HIV-positive. HCV positivity was associated with needle sharing (AOR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.27,2.64; p = 0.001) and reuse of syringe/needle (AOR: 2.26; 95% CI: 1.34, 3.79; p = 0.002). In addition, PWIDs were more likely to be HCV-positive who started opioid substitution therapy (OST) (AOR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.26, 2.80, p = 0.002) and attended the rehabilitation center (AOR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.10, 2.53, p = 0.017).

Conclusions

This CLT model was found to be a novel approach of testing of HIV and HCV which was acceptable to PWIDs in Nepal and showed the high prevalence of HCV and its association with injecting-related risk behaviors and being users of OST and rehabilitation. The findings highlight the need of community-led testing in hotspots, OST settings, and rehabilitation centers to screen new HIV and HCV infections.
Genetic markers of abdominal obesity and weight loss after gastric bypass surgery
Authors: Aasbrenn Martin , Svendstrup Mathilde , Schnurr Theresia M. , Lindqvist Hansen Dorte , Worm Dorte , Balslev-Harder Marie , Grarup Niels , Burgdorf Kristoffer Sølvsten , Vestergaard Henrik , Pedersen Oluf , Ängquist Lars , Fenger Mogens , Sørensen Thorkild I. A. , Madsbad Sten , Hansen Torben
Published: May 2021

Background

Weight loss after bariatric surgery varies widely between individuals, partly due to genetic differences. In addition, genetic determinants of abdominal obesity have been shown to attenuate weight loss after dietary intervention with special attention paid to the rs1358980-T risk allele in the VEGFA locus. Here we aimed to test if updated genetic risk scores (GRSs) for adiposity measures and the rs1358980-T risk allele are linked with weight loss following gastric bypass surgery.

Methods

Five hundred seventy six patients with morbid obesity underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. A GRS for BMI and a GRS for waist-hip-ratio adjusted for BMI (proxy for abdominal obesity), respectively, were constructed. All patients were genotyped for the rs1358980-T risk allele. Associations between the genetic determinants and weight loss after bariatric surgery were evaluated.

Results

The GRS for BMI was not associated with weight loss (β = -2.0 kg/100 risk alleles, 95% CI -7.5 to 3.3, p = 0.45). Even though the GRS for abdominal obesity was associated with an attenuated weight loss response adjusted for age, sex and center (β = -14.6 kg/100 risk alleles, 95% CI -25.4 to -3.8, p = 0.008), it was not significantly associated with weight loss after adjustment for baseline BMI (β = -7.9 kg/100 risk alleles, 95% CI -17.5 to 1.6, p = 0.11). Similarly, the rs1358980-T risk allele was not significantly associated with weight loss (β = -0.8 kg/risk allele, 95% CI -2.2 to 0.6, p = 0.25).

Discussion

GRSs for adiposity derived from large meta-analyses and the rs1358980-T risk allele in the VEGFA locus did not predict weight loss after gastric bypass surgery. The association between a GRS for abdominal obesity and the response to bariatric surgery may be dependent on the association between the GRS and baseline BMI.
Increased ACE2 Levels and Mortality Risk of Patients With COVID-19 on Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy
Authors: Liu Julia J. , Sloan Meredith E. , Owings Anna H. , Figgins Erika , Gauthier Josee , Gharaibeh Raad , Robinson Tanya , Williams Haley , Sindel Campbell B. , Backus Fremel , Ayyalasomayajula Krishna , Parker Adam , Senitko Michal , Abraham George E. , Claggett Brian , Horwitz Bruce H. , Jobin Christian , Adelman Robert M. , Diamond Gill , Glover Sarah C.
Published: May 2021

INTRODUCTION:

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use was recently reported to be associated with increased severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and worse clinical outcomes. The underlying mechanism(s) for this association are unclear.

METHODS:

We performed a prospective study of hospitalized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and COVID-negative controls to understand how PPI use may affect angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression and stool SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Analysis of a retrospective cohort of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 from March 15, 2020 to August 15, 2020 in 6 hospitals was performed to evaluate the association of PPI use and mortality. Covariates with clinical relevance to COVID-19 outcomes were included to determine predictors of in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS:

Control PPI users had higher salivary ACE2 mRNA levels than nonusers, 2.39 ± 1.15 vs 1.22 ± 0.92 (P = 0.02), respectively. Salivary ACE2 levels and stool SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection rates were comparable between users and nonusers of PPI. In 694 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 (age = 58 years, 46% men, and 65% black), mortality rate in PPI users and nonusers was 30% (68/227) vs 12.1% (53/439), respectively. Predictors of mortality by logistic regression were PPI use (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.72, P < 0.001), age (aOR = 1.66 per decade, P < 0.001), race (aOR = 3.03, P = 0.002), cancer (aOR = 2.22, P = 0.008), and diabetes (aOR = 1.95, P = 0.003). The PPI-associated mortality risk was higher in black patients (aOR = 4.16, 95% confidence interval: 2.28–7.59) than others (aOR = 1.62, 95% confidence interval: 0.82–3.19, P = 0.04 for interaction).

DISCUSSION:

COVID-negative PPI users had higher salivary ACE2 expression. PPI use was associated with increased mortality risk in patients with COVID-19, particularly African Americans.
Die Ökonomie des Wohlergehens
Authors: Wiggerthale Marita , Sennholz-Weinhardt Barbara
Published: May 2021

Eine neue Umfrage zeigt, dass nur wenige Menschen in Deutschland das Wirtschaftssystem für sozial gerecht halten. Wie kann eine sozial und ökologisch gerechte Wirtschaft der Zukunft aussehen? Welche Rolle spielen Wachstum, Ressourcenverbrauch, soziale Ungleichheit und Lobbymacht von Konzernen?
Die Genschere unter Kontrolle halten
Authors: Then Christoph
Published: May 2021

In der Europäischen Union werden derzeit die ersten Zulassungen für neue Gentechniken beantragt. Diese Methoden bringen nicht nur unvorhersehbare Umweltrisiken mit sich, sondern führen mit einer Patentierung von Pflanzen zu einer stärkeren Monopolisierung der Agrarindustrie.
CSRR metamaterial based BPF with wide attenuation band
Authors: Sen Sarbani , Moyra Tamasi
Published: May 2021

A bandpass filter (BPF) of 2.24 GHz centre frequency and 44.6% fractional bandwidth, with a wide attenuation band is proposed in this article. The paper is focused on the analysis of complementary split ring resonator (CSRR) as a unit section of metamaterial and its application in designing of a bandpass filter. The proposed BPF structure consists of a stepped impedance stub-loaded resonator incorporated with the CSRR to suppress the harmonics to improve the attenuation band characteristics. A brief parametric study of the CSRR cell is done to demonstrate its role while suppressing the unwanted harmonics. The structure is fabricated, and measured to show a consistency with the IE3D simulated results.
Laboratory test and numerical simulation of composite geomembrane leakage in plain reservoir
Authors: Luo Jinping , Huang Guoxiang , Shao Yanni , Liu Jian , Xie Quanyi
Published: May 2021

Plain reservoir plays an important role in alleviating water shortage in plain areas which are generally crowded with large populations. As an effective and cheap anti-seepage measure, geomembrane is widely applied in plain reservoirs. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the seepage discharge caused by composite geomembrane leakage. The laboratory test and numerical calculation are carried out in this paper to analyze the influence of three factors (i.e., water head, leakage size, and leakage location) on seepage discharge. It is found from the results of the orthogonal and single-factor analysis that the impact order of the three factors on the seepage discharge of plain reservoir is: distance from dam toe > water head > leakage size. Moreover, the seepage discharge increases as the water head, leakage size, and leakage quantity increase, in a linear relation. The opposite trend can be sawed in the seepage discharge when the distance from dam toe rises. Furthermore, a threshold distance is innovatively presented based on the results of numerical analysis. The ranking of three factors has enlightening significance for future scholars to track and study key issues of the leakage of composite geomembrane. The threshold distance presented in this paper is beneficial for engineers to manage and maintain the reservoir. Generally, the findings of this study can be beneficial to deepen the understanding of the influence of composite geomembrane leakage on the plain reservoirs.
The many facets of bile acids in the physiology and pathophysiology of the human liver
Authors: Gertzen Christoph G.W. , Gohlke Holger , Häussinger Dieter , Herebian Diran , Keitel Verena , Kubitz Ralf , Mayatepek Ertan , Schmitt Lutz
Published: May 2021

Bile acids perform vital functions in the human liver and are the essential component of bile. It is therefore not surprising that the biology of bile acids is extremely complex, regulated on different levels, and involves soluble and membrane receptors as well as transporters. Hereditary disorders of these proteins manifest in different pathophysiological processes that result in liver diseases of varying severity. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of the physiology and pathophysiology of bile acids with an emphasis on recently established analytical approaches as well as the molecular mechanisms that underlie signaling and transport of bile acids. In this review, we will focus on ABC transporters of the canalicular membrane and their associated diseases. As the G protein-coupled receptor, TGR5, receives increasing attention, we have included aspects of this receptor and its interaction with bile acids.
Suitability of electro-chemical reactor with copper electrode for sugar industry wastewater treatment: optimization of parameters, mechanism, kinetics and sludge analysis
Authors: Sahu Omprakash
Published: May 2021

The waste water generated from sugar industry contains a high degree of organic pollutant. Treating the sugar industry wastewater is thus crucial important for the environmental concern. The treated water can be reprocessed in different unit operation due to lack of fresh water. The purpose of this research work is to treat the sugarcane processing industry wastewater by electrochemical technology. The experiment was carried out with the copper electrode in batch mode. The input process parameters were optimized by using response surface methodology. At optimum condition at pH 6.79, current 4.97, electrode distance 1.41 and treatment ∼30 min, maximum 87.07% of chemical oxygen demand and 99.18% color removals was attained. A fairly high predicted value of regression coefficient for chemical oxygen demand (Pre-R2) 0.81 and color (Pre-R2) 0.851 and adjacent value for chemical oxygen demand (Adj-R2) 0.46 and color (Adj-R2) 0.589 was obtained between the experimental values and the calculate values by using a second-order regression model. The physicochemical characterizations of scum reveal less percentage of inorganic and it cane used as a micronutrient.
A Comparison of the Korean and Japanese Approaches to Foreign Family Names
Authors: Guanglin Jin
Published: May 2021

There are many foreign family names in Korean and Japanese genealogies. This paper is especially focused on the fact that out of approximately 280 Korean family names, roughly half are of foreign origin, and that out of those foreign family names, the majority trace their beginnings to China. In Japan, the Newly Edited Register of Family Names (新撰姓氏錄), published in 815, records that out of 1,182 aristocratic clans in the capital and its surroundings, 326 clans-approximately one-third-originated from China and Korea. Does the prevalence of foreign family names reflect migration from China to Korea, and from China and Korea to Japan? Or is it perhaps a result of Korean Sinophilia (慕華思想) and Japanese admiration for Korean and Chinese cultures? Or could there be an entirely distinct explanation? First I discuss premodern Korean and ancient Japanese foreign family names, and then I examine the formation and characteristics of these family names. Next I analyze how migration from China to Korea, as well as from China and Korea to Japan, occurred in their historical contexts. Through these studies, I derive answers to the above-mentioned questions.
Eurasian Transfer of Knowledge vs. Eurasian Interchange of Knowledge ―The Times Before Writing―
Authors: Labisch Alfons
Published: May 2021

Abstract /Summary

In light of the widely discussed issues on the modernization and industrialization of East Asia, it is sometimes overlooked that there has been a constant exchange of knowledge between East Asia and Europe. This “transfer of knowledge” during all known times was associated with the traffic of humans, animals and goods and had an input on skills and techniques, too. And it were not only goods, skills and knowledge, but religions, world views and cultures that were exchanged. Thus is it productive to speak of an “transfer of knowledge”? Is it not rather productive to speak of a constant exchange and thus of an “interchange of knowledge” - and so of a steadily ongoing process of giving and taking? So is the real question what separates East Asia and Europe or what they have in common? It is precisely this general problem that is to be pursued in a special question in time, for which there are no written sources. So it is about the earliest history, possibly even the origin of exchange processes between East and West, which can be achieved with most modern methods. Are the latest methods and results of archeology providing us with information on whether, as of when and in what areas, an exchange of knowledge between East and West existed before the time of writing? This question is being examined in a central region of the exchange, namely the “Oasis Silk Road” with the “bottle neck” of the Taklamakan. The present study / presentation is only a small, highly incomplete “florilegium” - a selection of flowers. Pilot studies with precise questions would be needed. Such preliminary investigations and pilot studies could also be made for other regions of knowledge exchange and cultural interaction in East Asia in general. On the methodical side, all methods of historiography and archeology have their specific advantages, but also their specific disadvantages. In the issue “Eurasian Interchange of Knowledge in Times before Writing”, the combined results of historiography, modern archeology, and recent natural scientific and (molecular) biological archaeology are the basis for our current state of knowledge. On the long run the different methods and results from a variety of different scientific areas have to be evaluated in their meaningfulness, reach and validity for the historiography of human action. On the basis of the results from historiography and archeology in the widest sense, can be assumed that there has been an exchange of materials, products, skills and creatures - animals and humans - since the beginning of the early agrarian culture in the Neolithic Age. Exchange processes in the widest sense in the later times of writing therefore seldom meet an almost untouched field. Rather, exchange processes usually build on existing cultural peculiarities, which are already an amalgam and thus an inseparable mixture of previous exchange processes.
Biological and medicinal application of Cucumis sativus Linn. – review of current status with future possibilities
Authors: Khan Anayatullah , Mishra Anuradha , Hasan Syed Misbahul , Usmani Afreen , Ubaid Mohd , Khan Naimuddin , Saidurrahman Mohd
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The increasing demand for herbal drugs for the human application is causing a growing demand for the cultivation of Medicinal Plants. This demand has developed because of cost-effective, plant-derived products rather than commercially available synthetic drugs. Cucumis sativus Linn. (Ver. Kheera) is a vegetable climber, species belongs to family Cucurbitaceae This species has a wide range of medicinal and biological applications thanks to its richness in carbohydrate, proteins, minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc) and secondary metabolites like alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic compounds These phytoconstituents may be responsible for allied therapeutic application. So, C. sativus possess wider applications for preventing certain ailments.

Content

The literature in various national and international journals and reports pertaining to the medicinal and nutritional uses were reviewed. The result revealed the current therapeutic applications of C. sativus whole plants other than the nutritional value. C. sativus pharmacological action includes antioxidant, anti-diabetic, UV protectant, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, anti-helminthic, wound healing, antimicrobial, and anticancer. So, it could be useful for both preventive and additive therapy along with modern medicine for the better management of certain disorders.

Summary and Outlook

This review furnishes updated information about the phytoconstituents and their medicinal applications so that it can pose a path for the young researchers to do future findings.
Do non-invasive prenatal tests promote discrimination against people with Down syndrome? What should be done?
Authors: Zerres Klaus , Rudnik-Schöneborn Sabine , Holzgreve Wolfgang
Published: May 2021

By implementation of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for the diagnosis of Down syndrome (DS) in maternity care, an ethical debate is newly inflamed how to deal with this information. Fears of the consequences of an increased use of NIPT are justified with the same arguments when amniocentesis and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) were introduced decades ago. It can be expected that the prevalence of people with DS would significantly increase in Western societies as a result of the increasing age of pregnant women and the improved medical care for people with DS. The net effect as to whether an increasing uptake of NIPT will result in more abortions of fetuses with trisomy 21 cannot be reliably estimated. This holds true since more and more couples will use results of NIPT for information only, but will not opt for termination of pregnancy. Although parents love their children with DS, in a society where reproductive autonomy is seen as an achievement, access to NIPT cannot be limited. On this background, comprehensive and qualified pretest counseling is vital, also to avoid possible stigmatization of people with DS and as the resulting consequence to avoid feared deterioration in their living conditions, for which, however, there is no evidence to date. The personal view of a mother of a child with DS illustrates the complexity in dealing with NIPT, which does not allow simple answers and must be understood as a challenge for society as a whole.
The materiality of theletterin Seto oral culture
Authors: Arukask Madis
Published: May 2021

This article focuses on the concept ofletterin oral folklore. The main research material is examples from the older folk songs of Seto, where a letter, a book and other items referring to literacy are mentioned. Texts under consideration are poetical and the meaning conveyed in them is not always very clear. The termlettermay be related to a message, paper, book, leaf or other material medium in the songs. The boundary between oracy and literacy is therefore thin, given that letters and writing are often imagined and conveyed in a physical context. Literacy in Seto folk songs is sometimes reflected as part of mythological knowledge and a mythological worldview. The written text or objects carrying it may have magical power. In some songs the writing can also be found on plants, which is interesting from a cross-cultural perspective. Similar motives from the folklore and beliefs of other peoples have been used comparatively to understand the content of the songs under consideration. The song of heavenly cows eating holy plants offers an opportunity to draw intercultural parallels and raises the question about the ethnogenesis of the Seto and their relatedness to different Eurasian peoples further to the east.
Plant oil-based polymers
Authors: Zhu Guoqiang , Liu Chengguo , Zhang Chaoqun
Published: May 2021

Polymer materials derived from natural resources have gained increasing attention in recent years because of the uncertainties concerning petroleum supply and prices in the future as well as their environmental pollution problems. As one of the most abundant renewable resources, plant oils are suitable starting materials for polymers because of their low cost, the rich chemistry that their triglyceride structure provides, and their potential biodegradability. This chapter covers the structure, modification of triglycerides and their derivatives as well as synthesis of polymers therefrom. The remarkable advances during the last two decades in organic synthesis using plant oils and the basic oleochemicals derived from them are selectively reported and updated. Various methods, such as condensation, radical/cationic polymerization, metathesis procedure, and living polymerization, have also been applied in constructing oil-based polymers. Based on the advance of these changes, traditional polymers such as polyamides, polyesters, and epoxy resins have been renewed. Partial oil-based polymers have already been applied in some industrial areas and recent developments in this field offer promising new opportunities.
Disruption of circadian rhythm and risk of autism spectrum disorder: role of immune-inflammatory, oxidative stress, metabolic and neurotransmitter pathways
Authors: Abdul Fazal , Sreenivas Nikhitha , Kommu John Vijay Sagar , Banerjee Moinak , Berk Michael , Maes Michael , Leboyer Marion , Debnath Monojit
Published: May 2021

Circadian rhythms in most living organisms are regulated by light and synchronized to an endogenous biological clock. The circadian clock machinery is also critically involved in regulating and fine-tuning neurodevelopmental processes. Circadian disruption during embryonic development can impair crucial phases of neurodevelopment. This can contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the offspring. Increasing evidence from studies showing abnormalities in sleep and melatonin as well as genetic and epigenetic changes in the core elements of the circadian pathway indicate a pivotal role of circadian disruption in ASD. However, the underlying mechanistic basis through which the circadian pathways influence the risk and progression of ASD are yet to be fully discerned. Well-recognized mechanistic pathways in ASD include altered immune-inflammatory, nitro oxidative stress, neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity, and metabolic pathways. Notably, all these pathways are under the control of the circadian clock. It is thus likely that a disrupted circadian clock will affect the functioning of these pathways. Herein, we highlight the possible mechanisms through which aberrations in the circadian clock might affect immune-inflammatory, nitro-oxidative, metabolic pathways, and neurotransmission, thereby driving the neurobiological sequelae leading to ASD.
Salts of octabismuth(2+) polycations crystallized from Lewis-acidic ionic liquids
Authors: Knies Maximilian , Ruck Michael
Published: May 2021

The reaction of Bi and BiCl3 with RbCl or CsCl in the Lewis-acidic ionic liquid (IL) [BMIm]Cl·4AlCl3 at T = 200 °C yielded air-sensitive, shiny black crystals. X-ray diffraction on single crystals revealed the hexagonal structures of two new salts (Bi8)M[AlCl4]3 (M = Rb, Cs), which are isostructural to the high-temperature form of (Bi8)Tl[AlCl4]3. The known (Bi8)2+ polycation is a square antiprism and can be interpreted as an arachno cluster following modified Wade rules. The crystal structure is a complex variant of the hexagonal perovskite structure type ABX
3 with A = (Bi8)2+, B = M
+ and X = [AlCl4]–. Chiral strands

∞

{

M

[

AlCl
4

]

3

}

2
−

∞
1

$\infty {}_{\infty }{}^{1}{\left\{M{\left[{\text{AlCl}}_{4}\right]}_{3}\right\}}^{2-}$

(M = Rb, Cs) run along [001]. The (Bi8)2+ polycations are only weakly coordinated inside a cage of 24 chloride ions and show dynamic rotational disorder at room temperature. Upon slow cooling to 170 K, the reorientation of the clusters was frozen, yet no long-range order was established.
Cardioprotective effects of omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil and it enhances autoimmunity in porcine cardiac myosin-induced myocarditis in the rat model
Authors: Li Ling-Yan , Wang Xu , Zhang Ting-Chuan , Liu Zong-Jun , Gao Jun-Qing
Published: May 2021

This experiment proposed to investigate the efficiency of omega 3 fatty acids from fish that improves autoimmune against myocarditis in the rat. Fish oil was extracted from fresh Tuna fish and performed FAME analysis and mice bioassay. The autoimmune myocarditis was induced by subcutaneous injection of porcine cardiac myosin (PCM) into the footpads of rats on the first and seventh day. Rats were dissected on the 21st day to analyze the histopathological, hemodynamic, echocardiographic factors, and immunohistochemistry expressions. In the study, 73.90% of total fatty acids were recorded. Histological analysis revealed that omega 3 fatty acids administrated groups showed tremendous development in the multifocal myocardia hyaline degeneration and necrosis with inflammatory changes. Moreover, omega 3 fatty acids inhabited the expressions of inflammatory cells (CD4, CD8 and CD11b) and suppressed the level of NF-κB. The echocardiographic factors such as heartbeat, SBP, DBP, levels of LVDs, LVDd, LVPW percentage of LVFS, EF, expression levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF, IL-1β, IFN-ɤ, IL-2, and IL-6) also significantly suppressed by omega 3 fatty acids. Hence, the present study proved that consuming fatty acid-enriched fish might be a successful therapy for improving the inflammatory profile, regenerates the heart tissues, and controlled the production of inflammatory cells.
Microstructural and Mechanical Characterization of 1.6-mm-Thick Nimonic-75 Superalloy Welds
Authors: Gupta R. K. , Anil Kumar V. , Kumar Ravi Ranjan , Vivek R. , Venkitakrishnan P. V.
Published: May 2021

Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) and electron beam welding (EBW) studies on thin Nimonic-75 sheets of 1.6-mm thickness have been carried out using butt-weld configuration. Manual GTAW was done using Inconel-718 filler wire with a two-pass welding and EBW was done by autogenous welding. The strength of both the weldments at ambient temperature is found to be marginally (~4%) higher than the base metal. Marginally higher strength in the case of GTAW joints was observed at ambient temperature and is attributed to the use of Inconel-718 filler wire, where the additional alloying elements (niobium, aluminum, molybdenum) and their contents in the weldment contribute to increase in strength. The microstructure of the fusion zone in EBW reveals a needle-shaped/acicular structure with fine dendrites, whereas the dendrites are coarser in the case of GTAW welds. At elevated temperatures (600°C–700°C), the strength of GTAW is similar to the base metal. However, EBW coupon exhibited higher strength (~20–45%) than GTAW coupon, indicating the beneficial role of faster heating/cooling in EBW leading to acicular microstructure.
Neoliberalization and Politics of Shaming
Authors: Ķešāne Iveta
Published: May 2021

Drawing on Norbert Elias’s writing and sociology of emotion literature, this study proposes viewing neoliberalization as a “civilizing process,” which is enabled by politics of shaming. By tracing two streams of protests triggered by neoliberal transformations—by farmers and schoolteachers—in the 1990s and how they were handled by the ruling elite publicly in the mass media, this article finds that, in post-Soviet and neoliberal Latvia, in moments of tension between the state and society, rule occurred through a politics of shaming that utilized three instruments: the neoliberal ideology of a good citizen, essentializing language, and dividing language. This article contributes to the post-Soviet studies’ scholarship, the growing body of scholarship that explores relationships between neoliberalization and emotions, as well as social movements literature.
The Rowan Hillson Inpatient Safety Award 2019 for the best perioperative pathway for people with diabetes
Authors: Dashora Umesh , Burckett-St.Laurent David , Leech Nicola , Dhatariya Ketan , Sampson Mike , Castro Erwin , Hillson Rowan , Jones Christine
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The annual National Diabetes Inpatient Audit (NaDIA) in the UK continues to show a high incidence of insulin errors in patients admitted to hospital with diabetes. New initiatives are urgently required to mitigate this risk.Method: The Joint British Diabetes Societies for Inpatient Care (JBDS-IP) organised the sixth national Rowan Hillson Inpatient Safety Award on the theme of the best perioperative pathway for people with diabetes.Result: The winner was the team from Aneurin Bevan University Health Board led by Dr David Burckett-St Laurent for their innovative re-design of the perioperative pathway by a cross-specialty working group. The main elements of the new system were standardised patient assessment, optimisation of perioperative diabetes control, personalised diabetes management plans generated from a drop-down menu with information on usual drug treatment, pre-op/day of surgery diabetes medication modification, advice on hypoglycaemia management and sick-day rules, anaesthetic review for people with HbA1c >69 mmol/mol, secondary care diabetes review for people with suboptimal diabetes control, new inpatient charts with guidance on diabetes drug management, streamlining of time and place of admission and greater engagement and education of people with diabetes and staff looking after them. This resulted in significant improvement in outcomes and reduction in risks.The Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust team led by Dr Nicola Leech and colleagues received the runners-up award for their 3-year quality improvement project involving multiple specialties. The project included development of trust-wide policies and protocols, educational initiatives, targeted diabetes specialist nurse in-reach, innovative electronic whiteboard alerts for glycaemic control and electronic hypo alerts. The result was a reduction in insulin errors and hypoglycaemia on surgical wards by over 50%, a reduction in Datix incidents and fewer patients suffering harm events.Summary and conclusion: These and similar schemes need to be developed, promoted and shared to reduce insulin errors in hospitalised patients with diabetes.