bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mycobacterium chimaera from Cardio Surgery Heating-Cooling Units and from Clinical Samples in Israel are Genetically Unrelated
Authors: Rubinstein Mor , Grossman Rona , Nissan Israel , Schwaber Mitchell , Carmeli Yehuda , Kaidar-Shwartz Hasia , Dveyrin Zeev , Rorman Efrat
Published: August 2021

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are opportunistic pathogens that cause illness primarily in the elderly, in the immunocompromised or in patients with underlying lung disease. Mycobacterium chimaera is a NTM species belonging to the M. avium Complex (MAC) group of species. Since 2013, a global outbreak of M. chimaera infection related to heater-cooler units (HCU) used in cardio-thoracic surgery has been identified. This outbreak was caused by a single strain of M. chimaera. In order to estimate the prevalence of this outbreak strain in Israel, we sampled M. chimaera from several HCU machines in Israel, as well as from patients, sequenced their genomes and compared them to the outbreak strain. The presence of mixed mycobacteria species in the samples complicated the analysis of obtained sequences. By applying a metagenomic binning strategy, we were able to obtain genomes of single strains from the mixed samples, and characterized them. M. chimaera strains were compared to each other and to previously reported genomes from other countries. The strain causing the outbreak related to the HCU machines was identified in several such machines in Israel but not in any of the clinical samples.
Can Green Credit Policy Promote Green Innovation Efficiency of Heavily Polluted Industries? Empirical Evidence from the China’s Industry
Authors: Li Su , Da Feng Tan , Cui Wei Wei , Zhao Jun
Published: August 2021

Green credit policy as an important tool to guide China's sustainable economic development, how to effectively play the function of capital deployment and improve the efficiency of industrial green innovation is an important issue facing the construction of ecological civilization. This paper uses China's Green Credit Guideline introduced in 2012 as a quasi-natural experiment , based on relevant panel data of industries from 2007 to 2018, uses the Super-SBM model including non-expected output to measure the green innovation efficiency of 35 industries in China, and constructs the PSM-DID model to explore how green credit policy impact on the green innovation efficiency of heavily polluted industries, the results show that : green credit policy significantly contributes to green innovation efficiency of heavily polluted industries with a lag. Further study finds that green credit policy pushes heavily polluted industries to improve green innovation efficiency by increasing financing cost and R&D investment; meanwhile, the heterogeneity test shows that the higher the state-owned share of industry, the greater the promoted effect of green credit policy on green innovation efficiency of heavily polluted industries. Finally, in order to accelerate the implementation of green credit policy and promote the green innovation efficiency of heavily polluted industries, relevant countermeasures are proposed from three aspects: banks, enterprises and government.
Comparative Analysis of Serial Union Patterns After Opening-Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy with and without Bone-Void Fillers
Authors: Kim Seong Chan , Kim Dong Hyun , Lee Jae Ik , Kim Tae Woo , Lee Yong Seuk
Published: August 2021

Background:

Opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy produces opening gaps; however, there is little consensus on bone graft necessity and the material that would produce a superior union. The purposes of the present study were (1) to compare the serial union patterns associated with various bone-void fillers, (2) to determine whether bone-void filler is necessary to achieve bone union of the opening gap, and (3) to determine whether bone union is different according to the correction degree during opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, 97 knees were randomly assigned to treatment with hydroxyapatite chip bone (Group A), allogenic chip bone (Group B), or no bone graft (Group C) and were analyzed after a minimum 1-year follow-up. To compare the bone union pattern, the area of callus filling located at the most medial side on an anteroposterior radiograph of the knee was recorded, and a modified van Hemert scoring system was used in the mediolaterally divided 5 zones. The correlations between the correction degree and bone union scores were evaluated.

Results:

There were no significant differences in the extent of mediolateral bone-healing at 6 weeks or 3 months postoperatively (p = 0.172 and p = 0.228). However, Group C showed more prominent progression of the gap filling to the medial side compared with Groups A and B at 6 months postoperatively (p = 0.002). Group C showed slow progression of bone union up to 6 weeks but surpassed the other groups at 6 months. The union pattern was not different between Groups A and B, and the correction degree was not correlated with bone union beyond 3 months postoperatively.

Conclusions:

Despite the different gap-healing patterns, opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy without bone graft achieved bone union comparable with allogenic and synthetic graft materials. Group C (no bone graft) showed slower progression of bone union but surpassed the other groups at around 6 months. Based on the union pattern, there was no difference depending on the correction degree and the use of bone-void fillers.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Penggunaan Media Ular Tangga Tematik (ULGATIK) untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar dan Aktivitas Siswa kelas IIA SDN 1 Landungsari
Authors: Cholifah Ida
Published: August 2021

The learning outcomes of class IIA students were many below of KKM. When studying of the theme 6, only 3 students scored above the KKM and who have sufficient attention to thematic. The aims of this study were to improve student learning outcomes and activities by using the thematic snake and ladder media. The results in the first cycle, score PPKN 76%, score Indonesian 70%, score mathematics 53%, score PJOK 72%, SBDP 62%. The students’ activities of Cycle were consisting of listening to the teacher's explanation 42%, playing snakes and ladders 59%, answering questions 45%. In the second cycle, PPKN 86%, the Indonesian language 83%, math  89%, PJOK 82%, SBDP 84%. In the Cycle II consisted of listening to the teacher's explanation 77%, playing snakes and ladders 93%, answering questions 78%. To sum up, the use of the thematic snake and ladder media can improve student learning outcomes and activities
Analisis Pengembangan Berpikir Kreatif Siswa pada Kegiatan Wirausaha di MI Amanah Kecamatan Turen
Authors: Chrisyarani Denna Delawanti , Sulistyowati Prihatin , Firdayanti Emi
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this research to describe implementation, efforts and the impact of entrepreneur's activities on the development of creative thinking students in MI Safeah Turen District. This qualitative study uses the instrument of research sheet, questionnaire and  documentation. Subject this study is the teacher, students class III and IV in MI Amanah Turen. Data analysis techniques in this study are a model of interaction analysis of data collection, reduction data, data presentation and conclusion withdrawals. The results show that the development of creative thinking of students through entrepreneur's activities is seen when students have a sense of confidence and to be brave in the delivery of ideas and promotion, the new product creations, forms, packaging with delicious, healthy, affordable prices and benign services. Entrepreneurial activities have a positive impact in the form of developing students' creative thinking which includes 4 aspects, namely fluency, flexibility, originality and detail.
Pengembangan Video Powtoon Berbasis Saintifik untuk Siswa Kelas V SD Muhammadiyah 8 Surabaya
Authors: Putra Deni Adi
Published: August 2021

This study aims to produce valid, practical, and effective scientific-based powtoon videos. The development model used in this study is a 4-D model. The results of media validation by material experts are 88%, media experts are 93% with the "Very Eligible" criteria. The practicality of the media is 79% with the “Practical” criteria. And the teacher response questionnaire was 81% with the criteria of "Very Practical". The results of the effectiveness test are 76% of students get scores that meet the KKM. The conclusion of this study is that the product developed has the criteria of being very feasible, very practical, and effective.
A alternância entre “mas” e “só que” nas variedades de português brasileiro de Nova Iguaçu e do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Santos Júnior Rogério , Vianna Juliana Barbosa de Segadas
Published: August 2021

Investiga-se a variação entre a conjunção mas e a perífrase conjuncional só que, com a finalidade de verificar qual é o estatuto desse fenômeno variável; e delimitar as motivações que favorecem a escolha de só que frente à de mas. Adotando o referencial teórico da Sociolinguística variacionista, utilizam-se amostras do Corpus Concordância (UFRJ). De acordo com a análise dos dados, foi possível propor as seguintes ilações: (a) que a variação entre as formas está, ainda, em um estágio inicial, sendo, portanto, estável; e (b) que o uso de só que está condicionado, principalmente, à função de operador discursivo, ou à função de marcador de turno conversacional; e a verbos que denotam processos materiais, processos verbais e processos mentais.
Construções condicionais insubordinadas adversativas no português brasileiro
Authors: Alves Camila Pires , Hirata-Vale Flávia Bezerra de Menezes
Published: August 2021

Considerando a emergência de estudos sobre o fenômeno da “insubordinação” (EVANS, 2007), este trabalho tem por finalidade descrever os usos de construções condicionais insubordinadas (CCI) encabeçadas por “se” com valor adversativo no português do Brasil, ainda não plenamente descritos nesta língua. Para tal, foi utilizada a abordagem funcionalista (NEVES, 2000, 2002) e a perspectiva teórica de autores como Sansiñena (2015), Schwenter (2016) e Montolío (1999). Os dados foram coletados em corpora de língua falada (Corpus do Português e Corpus C-Oral-Brasil) e analisados qualitativamente. Em termos formais, nessas construções emprega-se o do modo indicativo, motivado por seu estatuto factual. As CCIs adversativas são utilizadas em posição de réplica, por ocorrerem em contextos dialógicos. Pragmaticamente, são caracterizadas por apresentar um caráter de rispidez, decorrente da relação simétrica entre os interlocutores.
Interdiscurso, intertexto e práticas interpretativas: os processos de incorporação nas desnotícias
Authors: Rocha Campos Karina , Portela Jean Cristtus
Published: August 2021

O presente artigo, parte da pesquisa realizada acerca do site Sensacionalista e do blog The Piauí Herald, tem como objetivo descrever o funcionamento da chamada prática desnoticiosa no que se refere aos processos de incorporação de tipo intertextual e interdiscursivo em suas composições. Partindo da clássica concepção de interdiscursividade e intertextualidade, pretende-se apresentar a noção de prática interpretativa inaugurada por Jacques Fontanille (2008), responsável por complexificar a questão ao alocar esses fenômenos em outro nível de pertinência. Além disso, procura-se demonstrar, a partir de duas amostras de desnotícias, tais processos de incorporação em funcionamento, revelando as minúcias discursivas e destacando as especificidades de cada um dos veículos analisados.
Entre a saúde e a estética: a constituição de sentidos em capas de revista masculina
Authors: Alves Camila Pires , Machado Carolina de Paula
Published: August 2021

O mercado estético, como demonstram as estatísticas, está crescendo e seus discursos mostram-se mais apelativos. Historicamente, as mulheres eram o público de maior interesse desse mercado, porém, o público masculino está cada vez mais inserido nesse espaço. Considerando o fortalecimento e abrangência de tal mercado e o papel da mídia nesse processo, este trabalho tem por objetivo analisar duas capas da revista Men’s Health, destinadas ao público masculino, a fim de analisar-se quais são os sentidos de “beleza masculina” relacionados a um discurso sobre “saúde do homem”. À luz da Semântica do Acontecimento (GUIMARÃES, 2002), partindo de conceitos como “acontecimento enunciativo” e “cena enunciativa”, observamos as articulações, reescriturações e os efeitos de sentido para a interpretação dos enunciados das capas dessa revista, compreendendo-as como um texto e, assim, como uma unidade de sentido.
Design And Development of A 6-Port Optical Circulator Using Silicon Photonic Crystals
Authors: Vani Divya , Gupta Pooja , Anandan Sangeetha , Krishnan Prabu
Published: August 2021

A 6-port optical circulator using silicon photonic crystals has been designed and proposed in this paper as an essential component of an optical communication system. The proposed 6-port circulator has greater isolation loss values between the input and isolated ports and lower insertion loss values between the input and output ports. The proposed circulator achieves maximum isolation of -38.7 dB and minimum insertion loss of 0.0029dB. The proposed designs are extremely useful in the telecommunications industry, wavelength division multiplexing and photonic integrated circuits applications due to their low insertion and high isolation losses.
Improving The Subdivision Accuracy of Photoelectric Encoder Using Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Jiang jiaqi , Dai jiahai , Zhang hongbo , Mu yusong , Chang yuchun
Published: August 2021

To improve the subdivision accuracy of a photoelectric encoder and reduce the effects of sinusoidal errors in the signals on the measurement accuracy of the system, we designed an optoelectronic chip to receive grating moiré fringe signals. An amplifier circuit with a hierarchical pipelined architecture was designed, and the photodetector array was matched with the code disk before processing the received signals. Thereafter, a quantitative analysis was performed on the sinusoidal errors in the signals. From the analysis results, a sinusoidal error compensation method based on the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm was developed, and a subdivision error compensation model was established to correct the errors in the signals. Finally, a fast solution for the PSO algorithm was implemented on a field-programmable gate array, and a grating test platform was built for experimental verifications. The results showed that the peak-to-peak subdivision error of the encoder’s photoelectric signal decreased by approximately 60% from 2.98ʺ to 1.13ʺ. Therefore, the scheme proposed in this paper is expected to significantly improve the measurement accuracies of photoelectric encoders.
Dominantly acting variants in ARF3 have disruptive consequences on Golgi integrity and cause microcephaly recapitulated in zebrafish
Authors: Fasano Giulia , Muto Valentina , Radio Francesca Clementina , Venditti Martina , Ziegler Alban , Chillemi Giovanni , Vetro Annalisa , Pantaleoni Francesca , Pizzi Simone , Conti Libenzio , Petrini Stefania , Coppola Simona , Bruselles Alessandro , Prandi Ingrid Guarnetti , Chandramouli Balasubramanian , Barth Magalie , Bris Céline , Milani Donatella , Selicorni Angelo , Macchiaiolo Marina , Gonfiantini Michaela , Bartuli Andrea , Guerrini Renzo , Slavotinek Anne , Iascone Maria , Dallapiccola Bruno , Lauri Antonella , Tartaglia Marco
Published: August 2021

Vesicle biogenesis, trafficking and signaling via the ER-Golgi network support essential processes during development and their disruption can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegeneration. We report that de novo missense variants in ARF3, encoding a small GTPase regulating Golgi structure and function, cause a neurodevelopmental disease showing microcephaly and progressive cortical atrophy, with microsomia and rib anomalies in severely affected subjects, suggesting a pleiotropic effect. All microcephaly-associated variants clustered in the guanine nucleotide binding pocket and perturbed the biochemical behavior of the protein by stabilizing it in a GTP-bound state. Functional analysis proved the disruptive consequences of the variants on Golgi integrity, and brain and body plan formation. In-depth analysis in zebrafish embryos expressing ARF3 mutants traced back the developmental alterations to defective gastrulation cell movements as the earliest detectable effect. Our findings document a role of ARF3 in Golgi homeostasis and demonstrate an obligate dependence for early development.
Variation of HbA1c with Hemoglobin level: A comparative study betweenD10 Biorad (HpLC) and Nycocard (Immunochromatography) analyser.
Authors: Bhattarai Arabinda Mohan , Parajuli Sulochana , Pradhananga Salina
Published: August 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
The Low-Carbon Alternative: The Effects of The West-East Gas Pipeline Project On Energy Savings And Emission Reduction — Based On Empirical Research In Hubei Province
Authors: Wu Jian , Cui Chunying , Guo Xiaoman
Published: August 2021

The extensive use of natural gas has created new opportunities for low-carbon primary energy composition, and has eased the peak value of carbon emissions before the complete transition to clean energy. To explore the impact of natural gas access on energy conservation and emission reduction in inland areas of developing countries, this study examines the policy intervention effects of the West-East Gas Pipeline Project in Hubei Province. In this paper, the causal inference of multi-bandwidth and multi-core analysis is made with breakpoint regression, and then the core conclusion of the counterfactual analysis is proven to be robust by using the synthetic control method. The results show that the transportation of natural gas from west-to-east to Hubei Province can reduce the intensity of carbon emissions, which demonstrates that it is an effective low-carbon energy alternative. The West-East Gas Pipeline Project can meet the demands of a large number of energy shortages caused by the rise of the manufacturing industry and can solve the energy bottleneck in the development process in the central and eastern regions of China. The West-East Gas Pipeline Project has ensured the coordinated development of the western, central and eastern regions in China, has stabilized the economic growth rate, and has achieved high-quality growth. These achievements can serve as a reference for guiding the energy conservation and emission reduction work of a considerable number of gas-importing central provinces.
Factors associated with retention in HIV prevention and treatment clinical services among female sex workers enrolled in a sex workers’ outreach program (SWOP) in Nairobi, Kenya.
Authors: Eshikumo Patrick , Awuor Patrick , Blanco Natalia , Lavoie Marie-Claude , Whittington Anna , Wangusi Rebecca , Kimani Joshua , Ngunu Caroline , Omai Jesca , Obwiri Wycliffe , Mutisya Immaculate , Koech Emily
Published: August 2021

Female sex workers (FSWs) are among the key populations (KP) prioritized for comprehensive HIV programming in Kenya. Retention in the program is critical for prevention of HIV acquisition and transmission among FSWs and their sexual partners. We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of data collected from FSWs enrolled between October 2016 and September 2017 at seven drop-in centers (DICs) in Nairobi, Kenya, to examine retention in HIV prevention and treatment services and identify the associated factors. We found a 3- and 12- month retention of 24% and 17%, respectively. FSWs aged 20-34 years old were less likely to be retained compared to those 50 years or older. FSWs enrolled in a DIC located in their sub-county of residence or reporting ever using HIV pre- or post-exposure prophylaxis were more likely to be retained. Identifying predictors of FSWs disengagement from HIV services can inform the design and implementation of retention-enabling interventions.
Diagnostic test accuracy study for the detection of bovine genital campylobacteriosis of preputial scrapings from beef bulls, in Uruguay: A Bayesian latent class model approach
Authors: Mederos America Esther , Galarraga Denise , Bloois Linda van der Graaf-van , Buczinski Sebastien
Published: August 2021

The sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of three diagnostic tests for the detection of Campylobacter fetus venerealis (Cfv) using field samples were estimated using a Bayesian latent class model (BLCM), accounting for the absence of a gold standard. The tests were direct immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and real-time PCR (RT-PCR). Twelve farms from two different populations were selected and bull prepuce samples were collected. The IFAT was performed according to the OIE Manual. The conventional PCR was performed as multiplex, targeting the gene nahE for C. fetus species identification and insertion element ISCfe1 for Cfv identification. The RT-PCR was performed as uniplex one targeting the gene nahE for C. fetus and the other targeting the insertion ISCfe1 (ISC2) for Cfv. Results from the BLCM showed a median Se of 11.7% (Bayesian credibility interval (BCI): 1.93% − 29.79%), 53.7% (BCI: 23.1% − 95.0%) and 36.1% (BCI: 14.5% − 71.7%) for IFAT, PCR and RT-PCR respectively. The Sp were 94.5% (BCI: 90.1% -97.9%), 97.0% (BCI: 92.9% − 99.3%) and 98.4% (BCI: 95.3% − 99.7%) for IFAT, PCR and RT-PCR respectively. The correlation between PCR and RT-PCR was positive and low in samples from both sampled population (0.63% vs 8.47%). These results suggest that diagnostic sensitivity of the studied tests is lower using field samples than using pure Cfv strains.
A nomogram to predict stricture after endoscopic submucosal dissection for early esophageal cancer
Authors: Li Xue , Xing Jie , Li Peng , Zhu Shengtao , Zhang Qian , Zhang Shutian
Published: August 2021

Background: Risk factors of esophageal stricture after ESD are inconsistent and incomprehensive, the present study aimed to identify a robust model to predict postoperative stricture.Methods: This retrospective study included 273 individuals underwent ESD for early esophageal cancer from January 1, 2014 to October 30, 2020 in Beijing Friendship Hospital. Univariate Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate potential factors of stricture after ESD, followed by multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression to identify significant independent predictors after adjusting for covariates. Nomogram building based on multivariate Cox regression model was used to evaluate accuracy and discrimination by ROC curves and calibration curves respectively.Results: Stricture was identified in 28 patients (10%). The other patients were enrolled in non-stricture group (n=243). Multivariate Cox proportional hazard model demonstrated that operation time (HR 1.01, 95%CI: 1.00-1.01, P<0.01), upper segment of esophagus (HR 6.48, 95%CI: 2.07-20.33, P<0.01), middle segment of esophagus (HR 3.42, 95%CI: 1.36-8.64, P<0.01), >3/4 circumferential lumen of esophagus (HR 6.32, 95%CI: 2.20-18.13, P<0.01), postoperative fever (HR 6.17, 95%CI: 1.75-21.77, P<0.01), were independent predictive factors for postoperative stricture. The predictive accuracy of the nomogram was estimated by the AUC of ROC curves was 0.93, 0.87, 0.87 at 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years respectively.Conclusion: Longer operation time, >3/4 of the circumferential lumen of esophagus, located at upper and middle esophageal segment, and postoperative fever were independent risk factors of esophageal stricture after ESD.
Climate change experiences raise environmental concerns and promote green voting
Authors: Hoffmann Roman , Muttarak Raya , Peisker Jonas , Stanig Piero
Published: August 2021

Public support is fundamental in scaling up actions to limit global warming. Here, we analyze the impact of exposure to climate extremes on environmental concerns and Green voting for 29 and 24 European countries, respectively. Combining high-resolution climatological data with regionally aggregated and harmonized Eurobarometer surveys and European Parliamentary electoral data at the subnational level, we find a significant and sizeable effect of temperature anomalies, heat episodes and dry spells on environmental concern and voting. The effect sizes differ substantially and are most pronounced in regions with a cooler Continental or temperate Atlantic climate, and weaker in regions with a warmer Mediterranean climate. The relationships are moderated by regional GDP suggesting that climate change experiences increase public support for climate action but only under favorable economic conditions. The findings have important implications for the current efforts to promote climate protection in line with the Paris Agreement.
Soil Temperature Strongly Increases: Evidences From Long-term Trends (1951 – 2018) in North-rhine Westphalia, Germany
Authors: Dorau Kristof , Bamminger Chris , Koch Daniel , Mansfeldt Tim
Published: August 2021

Soil temperature (ST) is an important property of soils and driver of below ground biogeochemical processes. Global change is responsible that besides variable meteorological conditions, climate-driven shifts in ST are observed throughout the world. In this study, we examined long-term records in ST by a trend decomposition procedure from eleven stations in Western Germany starting from earliest in 1951 until 2018. Concomitantly to ST data from multiple depths (5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 cm), new snow cover (NSC), sunshine duration (SD), cloud cover (CC) and precipitation (PP) were measured and included in the multivariate statistical analysis to explain spatiotemporal trends in soil warming. A significant positive increase in temperature was more pronounced for ST (1.76 ± 0.59 °C) compared with AT (1.35 ± 0.35 °C) among all study sites. The impact of meteorological variables on trends in soil warming decreased in the order AT < PP < NSC < CD < SD. On average, soil temperatures increased by 0.29 ± 0.21 °C per decade and the trend accelerated from 1990 onwards. Especially the summer months (June to August) contributed most to the soil warming effect. Trends of ST were found up to +2.3 °C in 100 cm depth and are critical in many ways for ecosystem behavior, e.g., by enhanced mineral weathering or organic carbon decomposition rates. Spatiotemporal patterns of soil warming are embedded in a complex interplay of meteorological parameters and needs to be evaluated by trend decomposition procedures under a changing climate.
Smallholder Households’ Willingness to Pay for Conservation of Ecosystem Services of Alitash National Park, Ethiopia
Authors: Wassihun Agerie Nega , Feleke Fikeremaryam Birara , Bayeh Gebrehiwot Abebe , Nega Yitayew Malede
Published: August 2021

Background: Despite exceptional ecosystem services are provided by Altash National Park, anthropogenic activities exert immense pressures on the parks’ natural resources from the surrounding community which is eventually degrading the productivity of ecosystem services. Therefore, the aim of this study was economic valuation of ecosystem services of Altash National Park of Ethiopia. Using systematic random sampling 196 sample respondents were selected. Double bounded dichotomous choice followed by open ended format of contingent valuation method was used to state households’ willingness to pay (WTP) and their maximum WTP for conservation of ecosystem services of the park. Seemingly unrelated bivariate probit model was employed to analyse the data. Results: First and second offered bid values, Sex of respondent, Years of living in Kebele, Education status, Distance from home to park, Benefit of preservation, Distance from farm to park, Training on park conservation were found to have statistically significant influence on households’ WTP for improving conservation of ecosystem services of the park. The expected aggregate WTP from double bounded dichotomous choice and open ended format was estimated 1,511,172.96 and 1,526,194.56 birr, respectively. Conclusions: Based on the findings, since all respondents were willing to pay for the conservation of ecosystem services of the park, for every decision and formulation of policies and strategies, participation of local communities should be considered. Finally, regular training and workshop should be delivered for local communities to enhance awareness about the environmental and economic values of the park and to develop sense of ownership.
The effects of CO2 database on a localized AquaCrop model construction based on the field experiment
Authors: li fawen , song chunya , li hua
Published: August 2021

To examine whether the use of default CO2 database affected the simulation results, this paper built the AquaCrop models of winter wheat based on the measured CO2 database and the default CO2 database, respectively. The models were calibrated with data (2017–2018) and validated with the data (2018–2019) in the North China Plain. The residual coefficient method (CRM), root mean square error (RMSE), normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) and determination coefficient (R2) were used to test the model performance. The results showed that the accuracy of simulation under the two CO2 database were both good. Compared with the default CO2 database, the simulation accuracy under the measured CO2 database had higher accuracy. In order to verify the model further, the simulated values of evapotranspiration, soil water content and measured values were compared and analyzed. The results showed that there were some errors between the measured evapotranspiration and the values of simulation in the filling and waxing period of winter wheat. In general, the simulation values of evapotranspiration were consistent with the measured value at different irrigation levels. The simulated values ​​of the soil water content at the three levels of irrigation were all higher than the measured values, but the simulated results basically reflected the dynamic changes of soil water content throughout the growth period. The model adjustment value of WP*(the normalized water productivity) were a difference under the two CO2 databases, which is one of the reasons for the difference in the simulation results. The results show that in the absence of measured CO2 data, the default CO2 database can be used, which has little influence on the model construction, and the accuracy of the model constructed meets the actual demand. The research results can provide a basis for the establishment of crop models in North China Plain.
The Guiding Effect of Digital Image Based on Cone-Beam Computed Tomographic on Oval Root Canal Preparation
Authors: Wang Yiwei , Xia Wenjun , Tang Zisheng , Zou Yan , Bian Xiaohe , Qi Zhengnan , Lin Haoyi , Dong Minjun , Zhu Ling
Published: August 2021

Background: To evaluate the guiding effect of digital image based on cone-beam computed tomographic in improving the quality of single oval root canal preparation.Methods: A premolar was selected by CBCT and a 3D-printed root canal model was made. Twenty postgraduates from the Department of Stomatology of Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital were selected to perform root canal preparation on 3D printed oval root canal model teeth. They were randomly assigned to two groups(n=10) according to the guiding method received: CBCT original image (control group) and CBCT-based digital image (experimental group). CBCT scans were performed on the models before and after the guidance. The changes in root canal cleanliness, residual minimum thickness, transportation and over-preparation amount were analyzed.Results: The experimental group caused significantly more increased amount of cleanliness compared to control group(P<0.05)：6.0373% ±6.0766% in the control group and 13.7193%±6.7102% in the experimental group. There was no significant difference in the reduction of residual minimum wall thickness between the two groups (P>0.05)： 0.0154mm±0.2110mm in the control group and 0.0362±0.0444mm in the experimental group. In the control group, the transportation after second preparation was generally increased (increased 0.0084mm on average). In the experimental group, the transportation was generally reduced after second preparation (reduced 0.0081mm on average). But there was no significant difference in the transportation change between the two groups (P>0.05). After the second preparation, there was no significant difference in the amount of increased over-preparation between the two groups（P＞0.05）: 1.7029%±3.6622% in the control group and 3.5144%±4.8075% in the experimental group.Conclusions: Compared with traditional CBCT image guidance, the digital image method can significantly improve the cleaning effect of the oval root canal preparation. It didn’t result in more over-preparation and the amount of residual wall thickness was ensured. At the same time, it has a certain effect on reducing transportation after the guidance.
Patient Engagement in Decision Making and Associated Factors among Outpatients with Selected Non-Communicable Chronic Diseases in Public Hospitals of West Shoa, Ethiopia,2020
Authors: Emana Desalegn
Published: August 2021

Background: Despite the importance of patient engagement in health care decision-making in the care of patients with chronic diseases, there is limited information about it and the factors affecting it in Ethiopia in general and in the Public Hospitals of West Shoa in particular. Thus this study is designed to assess the engagement of patients with selected chronic non-communicable diseases in health care decision making and associated factors in public hospitals of West Shoa Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia.Methods: Facility-based cross-sectional study design was used. Systematic sampling was used for the selection of study participants from June 7 – July 26, 2020. Standardized, pretested, and structured Patient Activation Measure was used to measure patient engagement in healthcare decision-making. Descriptive analysis was done to determine the magnitude of patient engagement in health care decision-making. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with patients’ engagement in the health care decision-making process. Adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was calculated to measure the strength of association. Statistical significance was declared at p<0.05. The results were presented by tables and graphs.Results: A total of 406 patients with chronic diseases participated in the study yielding a response rate of 96.2%. Less than a fifth [19.5% (95% CI: 15.5, 23.6)] of participants in the study area had a high engagement in their health care decision-making. Educational level (college or above) [AOR=5.2, 95% CI (1.76-15.46)], duration of diagnosis >5 years [AOR= 1.8, 95% CI (1.03-3.2)], health literacy [AOR=1.15, 95% CI (1.06-1.24)], autonomy preference in decision making [AOR=1.35, 95% CI (1.03-1.96)] were factors significantly associated with participants’ engagement in health care decision making among patients with chronic diseases. Conclusion- Low number of respondents had a high engagement in their health care decision-making. Preference for autonomy in decision making, educational level, health literacy, duration of diagnosis with the disease were factors associated with patient engagement in health care decision making among patients with chronic diseases in the study area. Thus individualized patient-centered care and patient empowerment is essential among patients with chronic non-communicable diseases.
Proteomics Study of the Effect of Left Atrial Appendage Resection on the Energy Metabolism of Atrial Muscle in Beagle Dogs with Rapid Atrial Pacing
Authors: Chang Jing , Xing Yue , Yu Ting , Xue Xin
Published: August 2021

Aims The myocardial energy metabolism during atrial fibrillation（AF） is a research hotspot. Proteomics provides a new method for the study of atrial fibrillation; however, there are no related studies of the effect of the left atrial appendage（LAA） on the energy metabolism of the atrial muscle. We use proteomics to analyze the effect of resection of the LAA on the energy metabolism of the left atrial myocardial cells in beagle dogs with rapid atrial pacing.METHODS Nine beagle dogs were divided into three groups: the model group (rapid atrial pacing/LAA resection), the positive control group (rapid atrial pacing/LAA preservation), and the negative control group (sinus rhythm). Twelve weeks later, the atrial tissues were resected for proteomics study. Parallel Reaction Monitoring (PRM) was used for the validation of the targeted proteomics.RESULTS 55 proteins were upregulated and 68 proteins were downregulated in the experimental vs. the positive control group. Proteins related to glucose and lipid metabolism were mainly downregulated, and mitochondria-related proteins were mainly downregulated during rapid atrial pacing compared with sinus rhythm. After resection of the LAA, glucose-metabolism-related proteins showed a significant upregulation trend, lipid metabolism-related proteins were further downregulated, whereas mitochondria-related proteins were upregulated compared with rapid atrial pacing with LAA preservation. PRM confirmed the reliability of the proteomics results.CONCLUSION In the setting of AF, the resection of the LAA had a relatively large effect on the energy metabolism structure by affecting the quantity and functions of mitochondria.
What is Needed to Sustain Improvements in Hospital Practices Post-COVID-19? A Qualitative Study of Interprofessional Dissonance in Hospital Infection Prevention and Control
Authors: Gilbert Gwendolyn L , Kerridge Ian
Published: August 2021

BackgroundHospital infection prevention and control (IPC) depends on consistent practice to achieve its purpose. Standard precautions are embedded in modern healthcare policies, but not uniformly observed by all clinicians. Well-documented differences in attitudes to IPC, between doctors and nurses, contribute to suboptimal IPC practices and persistence of preventable healthcare-associated infections. The COVID-19 pandemic has seriously affected healthcare professionals’ work-practices, lives and health and increased awareness and observance of IPC. Successful transition of health services to a ‘post-COVID-19’ future, will depend on sustainable integration of lessons learnt into routine practice. MethodsThe aim of this pre-COVID-19 qualitative study was to investigate factors influencing doctors’ IPC attitudes and practices, whether they differ from those of nurses and, if so, how this affects interprofessional relationships. We hypothesised that better understanding would guide new strategies to achieve more effective IPC. We interviewed 26 senior clinicians (16 doctors and 10 nurses) from a range of specialties, at a large Australian tertiary hospital. Interview transcripts were reviewed iteratively, and themes identified inductively, using reflexive thematic analysis. ResultsParticipants from both professions painted clichéd portraits of ‘typical’ doctors and nurses and recounted unflattering anecdotes of their IPC behaviours. Doctors were described as self-directed and often unaware or disdainful of IPC rules; while nurses were portrayed as slavishly following rules, ostensibly to protect patients, irrespective of risk or evidence. Many participants believed that doctors object to being reminded of IPC requirements by nurses, despite many senior doctors having limited knowledge of correct IPC practice. Overall, participants’ comments suggested that the ‘doctor-nurse game’ - described in the 1960s, to exemplify the complex power disparity between professions - is still in play, despite changes in both professions, in the interim.Conclusions The results suggest that interprofessional differences and inconsistencies constrain IPC practice improvement. IPC inconsistencies and failures can be catastrophic, but the common threat of COVID-19 has promoted focus and unity. Appropriate implementation of IPC policies should be context-specific and respect the needs and expertise of all stakeholders. We propose an ethical framework to guide interprofessional collaboration in establishing a path towards sustained improvements in IPC and bio-preparedness.
Extracorporeal Life Support for Severely Burned Patients with Concurrent Inhalation Injury and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Experience From A Military Medical Burn Center
Authors: Huang Chih-Han , Tsai Chien-Sung , Chen Jia-Lin , Liu Hung-Hui , Tsai Yi-Ting , Lin Chih-Yuan , Ke Hung-Yen , Lai Chung-Yu , Hsu Po-Shun
Published: August 2021

Background: Both inhalation injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are risk factors that predict mortality in severely burned patients. Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is widely used to rescue these patients; however, its efficacy and safety in this critical population have not been well defined. We report our experience of using ECLS for treatment of severely burned patients with concurrent inhalation injury and ARDS. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 14 patients, including 10 males and four females, collected from a single medical burn center from 2012 to 2019. The mean age was 38.6±12.3 (range, 19-59) years. All suffered from major burns with inhalation injury. The average total body surface area of deep dermal or full thickness (DD/FT) burns was 81.6±20.0% (range, 47–99%). The average revised Baux score was 137.3 ± 22.6 (range, 107 – 172). All had developed ARDS with mean PaO2/FiO2 of 67.8±17.3. Indications for ECLS included sustained hypoxemia and unstable hemodynamics. The mean interval for initiating ECLS was 20.3 ± 40.8 days (range, 1-156 days). Results: The mean duration of ECLS was 5.0±5.6 days (range, 0.3-16.7 days). The overall survival to discharge was 42.8%. Causes of death included sepsis (n=4) and multiple organ failure (n=4). The ECLS-related complications included cannulation bleeding, catheter-related infection, and hemolysis. The predicted risk factors of mortality before ECLS included lactate>8 mmol/L and Baux score>120. Conclusions: For severely burned patients with concurrent inhalation injury and ARDS, ECLS could be a salvage treatment to improve sustained hypoxemia. However, the efficacy of hemodynamic support seemed limited. Definite ECLS indications and rigorous patient selection would contribute to better clinical outcomes.
Detection and Isolation of Selfish Nodes in MANET Using Collaborative Contact-Based Watchdog With Chimp-AODV
Authors: Sherif Bismin V , Salini P.
Published: August 2021

Mobile Ad-hoc Network (MANET) is one of the most important self-configuring and independent wireless network. Numerous intermediate nodes are used among MANET to interchange the information without the requirement of any centralized infrastructure. But some nodes act selfishly and utilize the resources only for their own purposes and do not share with the neighbors. This selfish nodes might delay or drop the packet and do not perform routing. Though watchdog is a well-known selfish node detection technique, it causes false negatives and false positives that can affect the performance in terms of precision and speed. To eliminate the drawbacks of existing approaches in selfish node detection, this paper integrates both Ad-hoc On-Demand Distance Vector (AODV) protocol incorporated with chimp optimization algorithm and Collaborative Contact based Watchdog to propose a novel technique called Chimp-CoCoWa-AODV in order to improve the performance of MANET. The main role of chimp optimization algorithm in AODV is to undergo optimal route selection process. The performance of the proposed Chimp-CoCoWa-AODV approach is compared with existing approaches in terms of average routing load, Average Packet Delivery Fraction (PDF), Average End-to-end Delay (EED), Average Throughput, Total packet drop in the application layer, and maliciously dropped packet in the routing layer. The simulation results shows that the proposed approach is effective with 82% PDF and 7.4 ms EED at 50 nodes in detection and isolation of selfish nodes in MANET even in the presence of malicious node.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Among Different Population Groups in China: a National Multi-Center Online Survey
Authors: Huang Yiman , Su Xiaoyou , Xiao Weijun , Wang Hao , Si Mingyu , Wang Wenjun , Gu Xiaofen , Ma Li , Li Li , Zhang Shaokai , Yang Chunxia , Yu Yanqin , Qiao Youlin
Published: August 2021

Background: COVID-19 vaccine has been available in China since the beginning of the 2021, however, certain numbers of people are reluctant for some reasons to vaccinate. The high vaccine coverage is crucial for controlling disease transmission. Meanwhile, the vaccine hesitancy might be a barrier to the establishment of sufficient herd immunization. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy towards the COVID-19 vaccine among different population groups, and explores the characteristics of different groups about vaccine hesitancy and common barriers and facilitators to vaccination decisions.Methods: The current survey was performed among students, public health professionals, medical workers and general population from January to March 2021 among Chinese from seven cities located in seven geographical territories of China. The questionnaire contained sociodemographic information, concerns about COVID-19 epidemic, general vaccination behavior and attitudes, the General Vaccine Hesitancy Scale, the COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Scale and other potential factors of vaccine hesitancy. Univariate analysis was conducted by chi-squared test, and variables were significant at P < 0.10 were then included in a multivariable regression model.Results: The prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was 64.1% in our study, and a higher prevalence (73.7%) was in public health professionals compared to students (58.3%), medical workers (64.9%) and general population (61.1%). The results of multivariate analysis indicated that public health professionals were more likely to be hesitant against COVID-19 vaccine than general population (OR: 1.469, 95% CI: 1.069-2.019. And participants who needed transparent information about COVID-19 vaccine development, efficacy and safety (OR: 1.609, 95% CI: 1.343-1.928) and who have received negative information of COVID-19 vaccine (OR: 1.300, 95% CI: 1.130-1.496) were more likely to have vaccine hesitancy.Conclusions: Appropriate training in knowledge and communication skills about vaccines are necessary for public health professionals to help themselves and the public to increase their willingness of vaccination. Reducing the spread of misinformation and disseminating facts in a timely and accurate way will likely reduce vaccine hesitancy. Also, to establish suitable communication strategies between the government and the public and a warning system on infodemic would be helpful to improve public’s confidence in vaccination.