bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of microphytoplankton biomass and diversity in the southern Alboran Sea
Authors: IDMOUSSI HAJAR , SOMOUE LAILA , PETERS FRANCESC , DEMARCQ HERVÉ , LAABIR MOHAMED , ESTRADA MARTA , ARIN LAURA , MAKAOUI AHMED , ETTAHIRI OMAR , BAIBAI TARIK , CHARIB SAID , HILMI KARIM , ERRHIF AHMED
Published: January 2022

The southern Alboran Sea is a highly dynamic region in the Mediterranean. However, there is few   data on microphytoplankton which is, an important component of the marine ecosystem. We therefore collected microphytoplankton samples and related the biomass and diversity patterns to ambient variability, considering cross-shore and longitudinal gradients. There was a general eastward decrease in both species richness and biomass, with Cape Three Forks as a transitional point. Diversity increased in coastal areas and decreased with depth. High chlorophyll-a concentrations corresponded to low temperature and low-salinity waters, indicating the Atlantic origin. Microphytoplankton biomass was low in comparison with total chlorophyll, suggesting a dominance of nano- and picophytoplankton. Biomass values increased in the stretch between Cape Three Forks and Al Hoceima Bay, an area highly influenced by upwelled water originating from the northern Alboran Sea. We suggest that the Western Alboran Gyre enhances the development of dinoflagellates while local upwelling enhances the development of diatoms. A statistical relationship was found between microphytoplankton biomass and diversity, especially when diversity was estimated as species richness. These results are crucial for understanding microphytoplankton dynamics and trends in an area that is undergoing climate-derived changes and biodiversity losses.
Potential crypticity within two decapod (Crustacea) genera: Galathea Fabricius, 1793 and Eualus Thallwitz, 1891 suggested by integrative taxonomic approach
Authors: CONFORTI SHEENA , COSTANTINI FEDERICA
Published: January 2022

Correct species identification and description are fundamental to understand health status of marine ecosystems. The use of a single identification tool for species distinction can lead to species misidentifications, having major consequences on ecological studies. Here, we used an integrative taxonomic approach to identify benthic decapods belonging to the genera Galathea Fabricius, 1793 and Eualus Thallwitz, 1891, collected in the Mediterranean Sea. 23 Galathea and 22 Eualus individuals were morphologically analysed and sequenced at the mitochondrial COI gene to confirm their identity using BOLD Identification Engine. Morphological identification revealed the presence of two Galathea and three Eualus species, while species delimitation based on DNA barcoding of COI sequences strongly suggested the presence of three Galathea and four Eualus species. Molecular analyses suggested the potential presence of two still undescribed species: one cryptic to Galathea squamifera and one cryptic to Galathea intermedia. Contrasting results obtained by morphological identification and BOLD Identification Engine impeded the recognition of Eualus specimens and suggested misidentifications among BOLD reference records of Eualus cranchii, Eualus occultus and Eualus pusiolus. These results demonstrated that morphological identification overlooks cryptic species and that misidentifications may occur, highlighting the importance of using an integrative approach to increase the current taxonomic knowledge of benthic invertebrates.
The yellowfin surgeonfish Acanthurus xanthopterus Valenciennes, 1835 (Actinopterygii: Perciformes: Acanthuridae) from Mediterranean Egyptian waters
Authors: ADEL MOHAMMED , NOUR OLA M. , AL MABRUK SARA A.A. , ZAVA BRUNO , DEIDUN ALAN , CORSINI-FOKA MARIA
Published: January 2022

An adult of Acanthurus xanthopterus Valenciennes, 1835 was caught in the waters off Alexandria, Egypt, in August 2021, through spearfishing. This finding documents the first occurrence of the species in the Mediterranean basin. Description of the specimen, morphometric measurements and meristic characters are given. The yellowfin surgeonfish is widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific region, absent in the Red Sea and it is a popular aquarium fish. Potential routes of introduction of the species into the Mediterranean are briefly discussed.
Working Paper 10: Accountability for better healthcare provision
Authors: Baez Camargo Claudia
Published: January 2022

Strengthening accountability in public service provision is increasingly recognized as a precondition to improve the performance of the health sector in low-income countries. However, progress in this field has been hampered to a great extent because of empirical difficulties in measuring and assessing accountability.

This article provides a clear operational definition of the concept and discusses how and why accountability in public health service provision presents distinct challenges to the institutional capabilities of most developing countries. On the basis of both elements a set of guidelines to empirically assess accountability in health services is offered.
Working Paper 12: Basel Art Trade Guidelines
Authors: Christ Thomas , Von Selle Claudia
Published: January 2022

The art trade market is global, highly fragmented and complex, involving a great variety of operators. In light of this complexity, the current level of regulation and existing compliance efforts by individual operators has proven to be insufficient. With some competitors engaged in unethical or illegal behaviour, operating profitably while acting with integrity and ethics is increasingly difficult.

As other industry sectors (e.g. the financial sector when faced with the challenge of effectively combating money laundering) have experienced, Collective Action by key market participants can be a highly effective way to systematically and comprehensively address such business practices and to ensure fair and efficient competition in a global market.
Working Paper 13: Collective Action and corruption
Authors: Pieth Mark
Published: January 2022

The working paper outlines the historical background and early experiments in the field of Collective Action. It also examines methods and challenges and depicts recent examples of Collective Action initiatives.
Working Paper 14: Using money laundering investigations to fight corruption in developing countries
Authors: Gomes Pereira Pedro , Fontana Alessandra
Published: January 2022

Anti-money laundering systems have the potential to curb the use of proceeds of corruption and other crimes by the perpetrators. An effectively implemented anti-money laundering framework limits the channels through which illicit funds can be laundered, making crime riskier and reducing the incentives for corrupt activities.

However, those who stand to benefit from corruption have strong incentives to block anti-money laundering programmes. In addition, these programmes face significant obstacles to effectiveness in most developing countries. Relevant institutions do not trust each other sufficiently to share information necessary for investigations. Counties lack qualified staff and necessary resources, and slow bureaucratic procedures are unable to keep up with the speed of financial transactions.

This paper explores these and other domestic obstacles and suggests strategies to overcome them, based on an analysis of the situations in Albania and Tanzania.
Working Paper 21: Globale Finanzflüsse und nachhaltige Entwicklung
Authors: Betz Kathrin , Pieth Mark
Published: January 2022

Im Rahmen von UNO und OECD diskutiert die internationale Gemeinschaft zurzeit intensiv, warum die meisten Entwicklungsländer nicht über ausreichend Ressourcen zur Finanzierung der für sie notwendigen Investitionen und ihrer öffentlichen Dienstleistungen verfügen. Dabei fällt das Augenmerk jeweils schnell auf die Ausgestaltung des internationalen Finanz- und Steuersystems. Mit welcher Art Investitionen kann man eine nachhaltige Entwicklung fördern? Wie kann der chronische Abfluss von finanziellen Ressourcen (namentlich aus Rohstoff-reichen Ländern) – oftmals als unlautere und illegale Finanzflüsse (illicit financial flows) umschrieben – reduziert werden? Welche Rolle spielt schliesslich die öffentliche Entwicklungshilfe in diesem Gesamtbild?
Die Direktion für Entwicklung und Zusammenarbeit (DEZA) hat am 29. Oktober 2015 mit Unterstützung des Basel Institute on Governance und unter der Leitung von Prof. Mark Pieth eine Fachtagung‚ Globale Finanzflüsse für eine nachhaltige Entwicklung – Handlungsmöglichkeiten der Schweiz aus Sicht der Entwicklungspolitik‘ durchgeführt. Das vorliegende Dokument stellt die Vorarbeiten und Resultate der Tagung zusammen.
Mit einem Vorwort von Pio Wennubst, Vizedirektor Direktion für Entwicklung und Zusammenarbeit (DEZA).
Working Paper 23: New perspectives in e-government and the prevention of corruption
Authors: Aiolfi Gemma
Published: January 2022

Does e-government have an impact in reducing corruption? Do e-government solutions sufficiently take private sector perspectives into account to maximise its potential for addressing corruption risks? 

This paper addresses these and additional questions about the dynamic between governments and the private sector with respect to harnessing e-governance tools for corruption prevention. It is written primarily from a private sector perspective and for private sector actors who are interested in a more comprehensive understanding of the scope and examples of e-government solutions to improve their anti-corruption policies, but concludes with numerous recommendations for the private sector and governments alike.
Working Paper 28: Regulating cryptocurrencies: challenges and considerations
Authors: Paesano Federico
Published: January 2022

Cryptocurrency regulations are developing fast. Across the world, authorities are reacting to the emerging threat posed by criminals using new payment methods to conceal and launder the proceeds of their crimes.

However, as the application of anti-money laundering/combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) due diligence requirements becomes stricter and more entities implement preventative measures, criminals are constantly looking elsewhere for potential havens for their illicit activities.

This Working Paper offers an insight into some potential consequences of changes in AML/CFT legislation in relation to cryptocurrency exchange services and virtual assets.
Prevalence of cancer as a comorbid in COVID-19 patients and their characteristics: a meta-analysis study
Authors: Sitanggang Johan S. , Siregar Kamal B. , Sitanggang Henry H. , Sprinse Vinolina Noverita
Published: January 2022

Background: Cancer patients are considered susceptible to coronavirus disease (COVID-19) due to an immunosuppressive state. This study determined the prevalence of cancer as a comorbid in COVID-19 patients, severe events, case fatality rate, history of anticancer therapy associated with severe events, and type of cancer in cancer patients with COVID-19 in the world.

Methods: This study used a meta-analysis study approach, sourcing studies from various countries related to cancer and COVID-19. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established to select studies. A PRISMA flowchart was presented to assess the selection process. Data from inclusion studies were analyzed using Review Manager 5.4.

Results: The prevalence of cancer as a comorbid in COVID-19 patients was 4.63% (95% CI, 3.78-5.49%) worldwide. The lowest prevalence was the Asian study group with 2.36% (95% CI, 1.86-2.87%) and the highest prevalence was the European study group with 10.93% (95% CI, 6.62-15.24%). About 43.26% (95% CI, 34.71-51.80%) of COVID-19 patients with cancer as comorbid experienced severe events of COVID-19. In total, 58.13% (95% CI, 42.79-73.48%) of COVID-19 patients with cancer as a comorbid who in the last month had a history of anticancer therapy experienced severe events. The prevalence of lung cancer in cancer patients with COVID-19 was 20.23% (95% CI, 7.67-32.78%). Forest plots are also presented related to the results of meta-analysis research.

Conclusions: High prevalence of cancer as a comorbid among COVID-19 patients indicates the susceptibility of cancer patients to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cancer as a comorbid in COVID-19 patients and use of anticancer therapy increase severe events of COVID-19.
Objects of information security audit and directions of their verification
Authors: Kashirskaya L. , Zurnadzh'yanc Yu.
Published: January 2022

Th e article is devoted to the study of information security audit objects, which include information stored and processed at the enterprise; information resources on which information is stored; information channels through which information is transmitted; soft ware used to process information; legal and technical documentation on hardware and soft ware and means of physical protection of information, as well as the characteristics of the stages of the audit of such objects. Th e article concludes that in view of the continuous and dynamic development of information objects in companies, there is a need to group such objects and form, on its basis, the main elements of information security audit.
The Budget of Russia in 2022–2024: There Has Been an Exit on the Trajectory of Economic Growth
Authors: Smirnov I.
Published: January 2022

According to analysts of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation, the federal budget of Russia for the three years 2022-2024, adopted by the State Duma, will contribute to the country's economy entering a growth trajectory corresponding to national development goals.
Malarka (nie)zwykła. Wanda Gentil-Tippenhauer i jej związki z międzywojenną Bydgoszczą
Authors: Nadolska Anna
Published: January 2022

Wanda Gentil-Tippenhauer kojarzona jest głównie z twórczością zakopiańską. Zanim ta urodzona na Haiti malarka i miłośniczka gór osiadła w stolicy Tatr, w okresie międzywojennym utrzymywała prywatne i zawodowe kontakty z Bydgoszczą. W mieście nad Brdą, gdzie mieszkała z matką i siostrą, brała udział w działalności bydgoskiego środowiska artystycznego. W jej dorobku twórczym można znaleźć prace plastyczne, do których inspirację czerpała z pięknych widoków i architektury Bydgoszczy. Z dużym powodzeniem prezentowała swoje akwarele i inne dzieła na wystawach organizowanych przez lokalne Muzeum Miejskie, z „Pierwszą wystawą artystek polskich” (1930) na czele; dzięki temu pozyskano kilka jej obrazów i chustę batikową do tutejszych zbiorów muzealnych. Gentil-Tippenhauer jest jedną z nielicznych artystek, które kreowały bydgoską plastykę w Drugiej Rzeczypospolitej, jednak bydgoszczanom związki, jakie niewątpliwie miała z miastem nad Brdą, pozostają właściwie nieznane. Warto omówić aktywność tej (nie)zwykłej artystki w życiu kulturalnym międzywojennej Bydgoszczy, jej działalność artystyczną i literacką – także na tle twórczości innych przedwojennych malarek.
Sevilla en la historia del toreo
Authors: Toro Buiza Luis
Published: January 2022

Sevilla en la Historia del Toreo, obra de Luís Toro Buiza; editada por Pedro Romero de Solís, 2002. Este trabajo fue editado por primera vez en 1947 por Luís Toro Buiza, gran erudito y conocedor en materia taurina. Libro agotado e inaccesible para muchos, tiene el papel valiosísimo de exponer su investigación sobre el origen del toreo a pie en el matadero sevillano. Se completó la reedición con una introducción de Pedro Romero de Solís y con numerosas ilustraciones de época.
A estratégia LET US Play aumenta a atividade física de crianças nas aulas de educação física escolar
Authors: Silva Igor Joaquim Oliveira , Coelho-Ravagnani Christianne de Faria , Tenório Maria Cecilia Marinho , Tassitano Rafael Miranda , Ravagnani Fabricio Cesar de Paula
Published: January 2022

O estudo objetivou comparar duas estratégias (Tradicional x LET US Play) com o intuito de aumentar o número de passos (NP) durante as aulas de educação física escolar de crianças. Trata-se de um ensaio clínico randomizado cruzado (cross over), realizado em uma escola municipal de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso. Foram aplicadas 10 aulas à 25 crianças (11 meninos e 14 meninas) do 4º ano do Ensino Fundamental. Dividida em dois momentos de 15 minutos (monitorados), com um espaço de 10 minutos entre eles para hidratação (não monitorados), a aula consistia na aplicação das atividades (estafeta, base quatro, futsal, queimada e empresta bandeira) usando a estratégia Tradicional ou LET US Play, de forma alternada e aleatória. Ao final de cada atividade, o NP foi medido por meio da pulseira inteligente Xiaomi Mi band 2. Utilizou ANOVA One Way para analisar o NP entre as estratégias, estratificada por sexo, com grau de significância de 5%. Observou-se que, o NP dados pelas crianças na intervenção LET US Play foi superior ao Tradicional em todas as atividades (estafeta, base quatro, futsal, queimada, empresta bandeira), tanto em meninos quanto em meninas, independentemente da ordem de aplicação (p < 0,01). Conclui-se que o LET US Play aumentou o NP das crianças durante as aulas de educação física e pode ser uma estratégia interessante para maximizar a atividade física nesse público.
Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma with Exclusive Leptomeningeal Involvement: The Diagnostic Challenge of a Rare Presentation of an Uncommon Disease
Authors: Santos Miguel , Pires Tatiana , Rodrigues Ana , Bandeira Adriana , Albuquerque Ana , Santos Flávia , Magalhães Miriam , Banza Maria Jesus
Published: January 2022

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare and aggressive extra-nodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). It must be confined to the brain, eyes, spinal cord or leptomeninges without systemic involvement at the time of diagnosis. Disease confined to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a rare form of presentation and poses a particular diagnostic challenge. We present the case of an 82-year-old man admitted to hospital because of an acute confusional state, later revealed to be due to PCNSL with exclusive leptomeningeal involvement. The diagnostic process was further impaired (or, perhaps, aided?) by the onset of a COVID-19 outbreak on the ward.
Intra-articular celecoxib improves knee extension regardless of surgical release in a rabbit model of arthrofibrosis
Authors: Trousdale William H. , Limberg Afton K. , Reina Nicolas , Salib Christopher G. , Thaler Roman , Dudakovic Amel , Berry Daniel J. , Morrey Mark E. , Sanchez-Sotelo Joaquin , van Wijnen Andre , Abdel Matthew P.
Published: January 2022

Aims

Outcomes of current operative treatments for arthrofibrosis after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are not consistently positive or predictable. Pharmacological in vivo studies have focused mostly on prevention of arthrofibrosis. This study used a rabbit model to evaluate intra-articular (IA) effects of celecoxib in treating contracted knees alone, or in combination with capsular release.

Methods

A total of 24 rabbits underwent contracture-forming surgery with knee immobilization followed by remobilization surgery at eight weeks. At remobilization, one cohort underwent capsular release (n = 12), while the other cohort did not (n = 12). Both groups were divided into two subcohorts (n = 6 each) – one receiving IA injections of celecoxib, and the other receiving injections of vehicle solution (injections every day for two weeks after remobilization). Passive extension angle (PEA) was assessed in live rabbits at 10, 16, and 24 weeks, and disarticulated limbs were analyzed for capsular stiffness at 24 weeks.

Results

IA celecoxib resulted in greater mean PEA at ten weeks (69.6° (SD 4.6) vs 45.2° (SD 9.6), p = 0.004), 16 weeks (109.8° (SD 24.2) vs 60.9° (SD10.9), p = 0.004), and 24 weeks (101.0° (SD 8.0) vs 66.3° (SD 5.8), p = 0.004). Capsular stiffness was significantly reduced with IA celecoxib (2.72 Newton per cm (N·cm)/° (SD 1.04), p = 0.008), capsular release (2.41 N·cm/° (SD 0.80), p = 0.008), and capsular release combined with IA celecoxib (3.56 N·cm/° (SD 0.99), p = 0.018) relative to IA vehicle (6.09 N·cm/° (SD 1.64)).

Conclusion

IA injections of a celecoxib led to significant improvements in passive extension angles, with reduced capsular stiffness, when administered to rabbit knees with established experimental contracture. Celecoxib was superior to surgical release, and the combination of celecoxib and a surgical release did not provide any additional value. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(1):32–39.
Shaping Primary Health Care Teams and Integrated Care in Québec: An Overview of Policies (2000-2020)
Authors:   Université de Sherbrooke, Wankah Paul , Breton Mylaine ,   Université de Sherbrooke, Lukey Alexandra ,   University of British Columbia, Gaboury Isabelle ,   Université de Sherbrooke, Smithman Mélanie Ann ,   Université de Sherbrooke, Malo Marie-Élaine ,   Université de Sherbrooke, Oelke Nelly ,   University of British Columbia
Published: January 2022

Primary Health Care (PHC) teams are an important component of the health system – particularly in terms of integrating care for vulnerable patients living with complex health and social needs. Over the last two decades, PHC teams have been implemented in different forms across Canadian provinces and territories. This article explores the health care policies that shaped the form and functions of PHC team-based care in Québec over the past 20 years (2002-2022). In Québec, the main model of multidisciplinary PHC teams – Family Medicine Groups or Groupe de médecine de famille (GMFs) – were created in 2002. In 2004, structural reforms led to the creation of local health networks (LHNs). LHNs promoted coordinated and collaborative activities between health and social services providers such as GMFs located in the same geographic regions. This was followed by another structural reform of the health system in 2015, leading to the creation of broader territorial health networks with the aim to heighten coordination and collaboration among provider organizations. Various policies have strengthened the PHC team-based model. For instance, the introduction of nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and social workers with extended scopes of practice shaped the configuration of GMFs while enhancing inter-professional collaborative practices. This article highlights important insights that could advance the understanding and creation of future PHC policy initiatives.
Feature homogenization strategy using optical flow for vision-related simultaneous localization and mapping in a complex environment
Authors: Meng Xiantong , Lai Zhengchao , Guo Shangwei , Li Jun , Han Shaokun
Published: January 2022

Vision-related state estimation usually extracts multiple feature points from images captured by the camera. In this paper, we propose a robust feature homogenization method for resolving the problem of feature clustering. The proposed method deduced the depth of feature points from optical flow magnitude, and the homogenization of feature points was acquired by adaptively enforcing the minimum distance between neighboring feature points. With the assistance of optical flow, the proposed method develops a preference for feature points with smaller depths in feature homogenization. Experimental results show that the proposed method improves the system’s global consistency and tracking stability by using optical flow information.
Reconfigurable hybrid silicon waveguide Bragg filter using ultralow-loss phase-change material
Authors: Zhou Ting , Gao Yixiao , Wang Guoxiang , Chen Yimin , Gu Chenjie , Bai Gongxun , Shi Yaocheng , Shen Xiang
Published: January 2022

Reconfigurable silicon photonic devices attract much research attention, and hybrid integration with tunable phase-change materials (PCMs) exhibiting large refractive index contrast between amorphous (Am) and crystalline (Cr) states is a promising way to achieve this goal. Here, we propose and numerically investigate a

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-Si hybrid waveguide Bragg filter operating in the telecom C-band on the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform. The proposed device consists of a Bragg grating (BG) with a thin top layer of ultralow-loss

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PCM interacting with evanescent field of the silicon waveguide mode. By harnessing the ultralow-loss and reversible index change of

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film, the spectral response of the hybrid BGs could be dynamically tuned. We also theoretically investigate the reversible phase transitions between Am and Cr states of

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film that could be attained by applying voltage pulses on the indium-tin-oxide (ITO) strip heater covered on

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film. Thermal simulations show that a 2 V (4.5 V) pulse with a duration of 400 ns (55 ns) applied to electric contacts would produce crystallization (or amorphization). The proposed structure may find great potential for on-chip phase tunable devices on a silicon platform.
The involvement of type IV pili and the phytochrome CphA in gliding motility, lateral motility and photophobotaxis of the cyanobacterium Phormidium lacuna
Authors: Lamparter Tilman , Babian Jennifer , Fröhlich Katrin , Mielke Marion , Weber Nora , Wunsch Nadja , Zais Finn , Schulz Kevin , Aschmann Vera , Spohrer Nina , Krauß Norbert
Published: January 2022

Phormidium lacunais a naturally competent, filamentous cyanobacterium that belongs to the order Oscillatoriales. The filaments are motile on agar and other surfaces and display rapid lateral movements in liquid culture. Furthermore, they exhibit a photophobotactic response, a phototactic response towards light that is projected vertically onto the area covered by the culture. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these phenomena are unclear. We performed the first molecular studies on the motility of an Oscillatoriales member. We generated mutants in which a kanamycin resistance cassette (KanR) was integrated in the phytochrome genecphAand in various genes of the type IV pilin apparatus.pilM,pilN,pilQandpilTmutants were defective in gliding motility, lateral movements and photophobotaxis, indicating that type IV pili are involved in all three kinds of motility.pilBmutants were only partially blocked in terms of their responses.pilBis the proposed ATPase for expelling of the filament in type IV pili. The genome reveals proteins sharing weakpilBhomology in the ATPase region, these might explain the incomplete phenotype. ThecphAmutant revealed a significantly reduced photophobotactic response towards red light. Therefore, our results imply that CphA acts as one of several photophobotaxis photoreceptors or that it could modulate the photophobotaxis response.
Prevalence of wasting and associated factors among children aged 6-59 months in Wolkite town of the Gurage zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2020. A cross-sectional study
Authors: Yeshaneh Alex , Mulu Tinsaye , Gasheneit Addisu , Adane Daniel
Published: January 2022

Background

Undernutrition among children is one of the leading major public health problems and about 49.5 million children were wasted worldwide. Asia and African countries contributed 69% and 27.2% of wasting respectively. In Ethiopia, 7% of children were wasted and 1% was severely wasted. Although Ethiopia has achieved remarkable progress in reducing under-five mortality and designed multi-dimensional approaches to address malnutrition, the data on acute malnutrition among children in the study setting is limited. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the prevalence of acute malnutrition and associated factors among 6-59-month-old children.

Methods

Community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted at Gurage Zone, Southern Ethiopia. A total of 293 study participants were selected using a systematic sampling technique. Data were collected using structured and pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaires by face-to-face interview. Data entry and analysis were made using Epi Data version 4.6 and Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 24 respectively. Descriptive statistical analysis and some of the statistical tests like the odds ratio were carried out. Both Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis with 95% confidence interval was carried out to identify associated factors and variables with P value < 0.05 were taken as statistically significant.

Results

The prevalence of wasting among children aged from 6–59 months in this study was 14.7% (95% CI: 10.9, 18.8). After controlling for all possible confounding factors, the result revealed that age of children between 6–11 months [AOR = 2.78(95% CI: 1.67, 6.19)], caregivers who were unable to read and write [AOR = 2.23 (95% CI: 1.04, 5.34)], presence of diarrheal disease in the past two weeks [AOR = 1.68 (95% CI: 1.23, 5.89)] and mothers who had a history of poor handwashing practice before food preparation and child feeding [AOR = 2.64(95% CI: 1.52, 4.88)] were found to be significantly associated with wasting.

Conclusions

The study findings indicate that respondents’ wasting was mainly affected by age of the child, educational status of caregivers, presence of diarrheal disease and hand washing practice of the mother. Providing acceptable, quality and honorable care for all children is very crucial to prevent child wasting and proper handwashing during breastfeeding and food handling is recommended and interventions aimed at improving maternal health and access to health care services for children are urgently needed.
From communities to protein complexes: A local community detection algorithm on PPI networks
Authors: Dilmaghani Saharnaz , Brust Matthias R. , Ribeiro Carlos H. C. , Kieffer Emmanuel , Danoy Grégoire , Bouvry Pascal
Published: January 2022

Identifying protein complexes in protein-protein interaction (ppi) networks is often handled as a community detection problem, with algorithms generally relying exclusively on the network topology for discovering a solution. The advancement of experimental techniques on ppi has motivated the generation of many Gene Ontology (go) databases. Incorporating the functionality extracted from go with the topological properties from the underlying ppi network yield a novel approach to identify protein complexes. Additionally, most of the existing algorithms use global measures that operate on the entire network to identify communities. The result of using global metrics are large communities that are often not correlated with the functionality of the proteins. Moreover, ppi network analysis shows that most of the biological functions possibly lie between local neighbours in ppi networks, which are not identifiable with global metrics. In this paper, we propose a local community detection algorithm, (lcda-go), that uniquely exploits information of functionality from go combined with the network topology. lcda-go identifies the community of each protein based on the topological and functional knowledge acquired solely from the local neighbour proteins within the ppi network. Experimental results using the Krogan dataset demonstrate that our algorithm outperforms in most cases state-of-the-art approaches in assessment based on Precision, Sensitivity, and particularly Composite Score. We also deployed lcda, the local-topology based precursor of lcda-go, to compare with a similar state-of-the-art approach that exclusively incorporates topological information of ppi networks for community detection. In addition to the high quality of the results, one main advantage of lcda-go is its low computational time complexity.
Mass media influences on family planning knowledge, attitudes and method choice among sexually active men in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Mutumba Massy
Published: January 2022

Men are underrepresented in family planning (FP) research, and despite the widespread promotion of FP through mass media, there is no systematic evaluation on how mass media exposure influences their FP knowledge, attitudes and behavior. Using Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data from 31 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), collected between 2010 and 2019, this paper examines the associations between three types of traditional mass media (radio, television and print) with FP knowledge, attitudes and method choices among reproductive age men in SSA, relative to other socio-cultural factors. Estimates to quantify the relative contribution of each type of mass media, relative to other evidence-based socio-cultural influences on FP outcomes, were derived using the Shorrocks-Shapley decomposition. Radio exposure had the largest impact on FP knowledge, attitudes and method choice, accounting for 26.1% of the variance in FP knowledge, followed by Television (21.4%) and education attainment (20.7%). Mass media exposure had relatively minimal impact on FP method choice, and between the three types of mass media, television (8%) had the largest influence on FP method choice. Print media had comparatively lesser impact on FP knowledge (8%), attitudes (6.2%) and method choice (3.2%). Findings suggest that mass media exposure has positive influences on FP knowledge, attitudes and method choice but its influence on FP knowledge, attitudes and method choice is smaller relative to other socio-cultural factors such as education, household wealth and marital status. As such, efforts to increase FP uptake in Sub-Saharan Africa should take into consideration the impact of these socio-cultural economic factors.
Impact of acute decompensation on the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kondo Takayuki , Koroki Keisuke , Kanzaki Hiroaki , Kobayashi Kazufumi , Kiyono Soichiro , Nakamura Masato , Kanogawa Naoya , Saito Tomoko , Ogasawara Sadahisa , Ooka Yoshihiko , Nakamoto Shingo , Chiba Tetsuhiro , Arai Makoto , Kato Jun , Kuboki Satoshi , Ohtsuka Masayuki , Kato Naoya
Published: January 2022

Background/Aims

Organ failure in patients with acute decompensation (AD) is a defining characteristic of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). However, the clinical features of AD during the long-term clinical course of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are still poorly understood. This study aimed to clarify features and impact of AD/ACLF on the prognosis of patients after treatment for HCC.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 556 consecutive patients who were initially diagnosed with HCC, and analyses were conducted taking into account HCC treatment type, HCC stage, and presence or absence of cirrhosis.

Results

During follow-up, 299 patients with AD were hospitalized. AD occurrence is closely related to prognosis, regardless of the presence or absence of cirrhosis and HCC stage, and early-onset AD (within 90 days after HCC treatment) has negative impact on prognosis. In the intermediate-advanced–stage group, surgical resection had a positive impact on AD incidence post-treatment. After systemic therapy for HCC, renal impairment was the predictive factors for AD development. The 28/90-day mortality rate was higher among 41 cases (13.7%) with AD who exhibited ACLF as compared with cases without ACLF. AD without cirrhosis had similar ACLF incidence and short-term mortality, compared to AD with cirrhosis. The prognostic model using a decision-tree–based approach, which includes ACLF, bilirubin level, HCC progression, and MELD score is useful for predicting 90- or 28-day mortality after AD diagnosis.

Conclusions

Careful management of patients with HCC who are hospitalized with AD is necessary, considering ACLF, HCC progression, and liver function.
Involvement of enhanced expression of classical complement C1q in atherosclerosis progression and plaque instability: C1q as an indicator of clinical outcome
Authors: Sasaki Shoh , Nishihira Kensaku , Yamashita Atsushi , Fujii Tomomi , Onoue Kenji , Saito Yoshihiko , Hatakeyama Kinta , Shibata Yoshisato , Asada Yujiro , Ohbayashi Chiho
Published: January 2022

Activation of the classical complement pathway plays a major role in regulating atherosclerosis progression, and it is believed to have both proatherogenic and atheroprotective effects. This study focused on C1q, the first protein in the classical pathway, and examined its potentialities of plaque progression and instability and its relationship with clinical outcomes. To assess the localization and quantity of C1q expression in various stages of atherosclerosis, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were performed using abdominal aortas from eight autopsy cases. C1q immunoreactivity in relation to plaque instability and clinical outcomes was also examined using directional coronary atherectomy (DCA) samples from 19 patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and 18 patients with stable angina pectoris (SAP) and coronary aspirated specimens from 38 patients with acute myocardial infarction. C1q immunoreactivity was localized in the extracellular matrix, necrotic cores, macrophages and smooth muscle cells in atherosclerotic lesions. Western blotting and real-time PCR illustrated that C1q protein and mRNA expression was significantly higher in advanced lesions than in early lesions. Immunohistochemical analysis using DCA specimens revealed that C1q expression was significantly higher in ACS plaques than in SAP plaques. Finally, immunohistochemical analysis using thrombus aspiration specimens demonstrated that histopathological C1q in aspirated coronary materials could be an indicator of poor medical condition. Our results indicated that C1q is significantly involved in atherosclerosis progression and plaque instability, and it could be considered as one of the indicators of cardiovascular outcomes.
Internet use and pro-environmental behavior: Evidence from China
Authors: Xiao Youzhi , Liu Xuemin , Ren Ting
Published: January 2022

Solving environmental problems relies upon cultivating pro-environmental behavior in the society. While the internet has been widely used to facilitate information transmission and communication, it’s important to understand its function in promoting pro-environmental behavior. Using the data from the China General Social Survey 2013, the relationship between the use of internet and the individual’s pro-environmental behavior is investigated, and overall positive effects are found. The results show that, the influence of internet use is more pronounced on the private pro-environmental behavior when further dividing pro-environmental behavior into private and public types. Moreover, the positive effect of internet use on pro-environmental behavior is more pronounced among low-income and female groups, compared to middle to high income and male counterparts, respectively, when considering the heterogeneity across different groups of individuals. We further explore the plausible channels of providing information, encouraging participation in pro-environmental campaigns and improving social relationships through which internet use facilitates pro-environmental behavior.
Helmet wearing behavior where people often ride motorcycle in Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Bedru Delwana , Teshome Firanbon , Kebede Yohannes , Birhanu Zewdie
Published: January 2022

Background

Road traffic accidents are a major global concern that affects all people regardless of their age, sex, wealth, and ethnicity. Injuries and deaths due to motorcycles are increasing, especially in developing countries. Wearing helmet is effective in reducing deaths and injuries caused by motorcycle accidents.

Objectives

To assess the magnitude of helmet wearing behavior and its determinants among motorcycle riders in Sawula and Bulky towns, Gofa zone, Southern Ethiopia.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April, 15 to May 25, 2020, among 422 motorcycle drivers in Sawula and Bulky towns, where people often drive motorcycles. A stratified sampling technique was used to recruit sampled drivers in a face-to-face interview. Data were entered into EPI-data version 3.1 software and exported to SPSS version 23 software to manage analysis. Descriptive analyses such as frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation were performed as necessary. Logistic regression models were fitted to identify the predictors of helmet wearing behavior. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to determine the magnitude and strength of the association.

Results

A total of 403 motorcycle drivers participated in the study which gave a 95.5% response rate. Among 403 motorcycle riders, only 12.4% (95% CI, 9.2 to 15.6%) wore helmets while driving motorcycles. Having license [AOR 3.51(95% C.I 1.56–7.89)], driving distance >10Km [AOR 2.53(95% C.I 1.08–5.91)], History of exposure to accident [AOR 2.71(95% C.I 1.32–5.55)], driving experience of ≥10 years [AOR 2.98 (95% C.I 1.25–7.09)] and high perceived susceptibility to accident [AOR 3.10(95% C.I 1.29–7.46)] had statistically significant association with helmet wearing compared to their counterparts.

Conclusions

This study found that helmet-wearing behavior was very low. Having a license, driving distance, exposure to accidents, driving experience, and accident risk perception were determinants of helmet wearing behavior. These determinants imply the need for interventions that focus on behavioral change communications such as awareness creation campaigns and mandatory helmet wearing laws.
Outcomes of patients presenting with elevated tumor marker levels but negative gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver MRI after a complete response to hepatocellular carcinoma treatment
Authors: Kim Ka Eun , Sinn Dong Hyun , Choi Moon Seok , Kim Honsoul
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients usually achieve a complete response after treatment. This study was aimed to assess the clinical outcome of HCC patients who had achieved a complete response but later presented with elevated tumor marker levels without an identifiable recurrent tumor on gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical outcome of 58 HCC treated patients who had achieved a complete response but later was referred to our institution’s multidisciplinary tumor board for a clinically suspected hidden HCC recurrence based on elevated tumor marker levels but negative gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI. The imaging studies, tumor markers, and clinical information were reviewed. The total follow-up period was at least 15 months after the initial negative gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI.

Results

Follow-up imaging studies detected an HCC lesion in 89.7% (n = 52/58) of the patients within the study period, and approximately half of the tumors (46.2%, n = 24/52) developed within 3 months. The most frequent site of recurrence was the liver (86.5%; n = 45/52), but extra-hepatic metastasis was also common (19.2%; n = 10/52). In 5.8% (n = 3/52), HCC reoccurred in the combined form of intra-hepatic and extra-hepatic recurrence. Extra-hepatic metastasis alone occurred in 13.5% (n = 7/52) of patients.

Conclusions

HCC frequently recurred within a short interval in patients who achieved a complete response to treatment in the presence of increased tumor marker levels, even if gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI was negative. Under such circumstances, we suggest a short-term follow-up including, but not limited to, gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI along with systemic evaluation.
Chronic spinal cord injury functionally repaired by direct implantation of encapsulated hair-follicle-associated pluripotent (HAP) stem cells in a mouse model: Potential for clinical regenerative medicine
Authors: Obara Koya , Shirai Kyoumi , Hamada Yuko , Arakawa Nobuko , Yamane Michiko , Takaoka Nanako , Aki Ryoichi , Hoffman Robert M. , Amoh Yasuyuki
Published: January 2022

Chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) is a highly debilitating and recalcitrant disease with limited treatment options. Although various stem cell types have shown some clinical efficacy for injury repair they have not for SCI. Hair-follicle-associated pluripotent (HAP) stem cells have been shown to differentiate into neurons, Schwan cells, beating cardiomyocytes and many other type of cells, and have effectively regenerated acute spinal cord injury in mouse models. In the present report, HAP stem cells from C57BL/6J mice, encapsulated in polyvinylidene fluoride membranes (PFM), were implanted into the severed thoracic spinal cord of C57BL/6J or athymic nude mice in the early chronic phase. After implantation, HAP stem cells differentiated to neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes in the regenerated thoracic spinal cord of C57BL/6J and nude mice. Quantitative motor function analysis, with the Basso Mouse Scale for Locomotion (BMS) score, demonstrated a significant functional improvement in the HAP-stem-cell-implanted mice, compared to non-implanted mice. HAP stem cells have critical advantages over other stem cells: they do not develop teratomas; do not loose differentiation ability when cryopreserved and thus are bankable; are autologous, readily obtained from anyone; and do not require genetic manipulation. HAP stem cells therefore have greater clinical potential for SCI repair than induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), neuronal stem cells (NSCs)/neural progenitor cells (NPCs) or embryonic stem cells (ESCs). The present report demonstrates future clinical potential of HAP-stem-cell repair of chronic spinal cord injury, currently a recalcitrant disease.
Indoor noise level measurements and subjective comfort: Feasibility of smartphone-based participatory experiments
Authors: Rozzi Carlo Andrea , Frigerio Francesco , Balletti Luca , Mattoni Silvia , Grasso Daniele , Fogola Jacopo
Published: January 2022

We designed and performed a participatory sensing initiative to explore the reliability and effectiveness of a distributed network of citizen-operated smartphones in evaluating the impact of environmental noise in residential areas. We asked participants to evaluate the comfort of their home environment in different situations and at different times, to select the most and least comfortable states and to measure noise levels with their smartphones. We then correlated comfort ratings with noise measurements and additional contextual information provided by participants. We discuss how to strengthen methods and procedures, particularly regarding the calibration of the devices, in order to make similar citizen-science efforts effective at monitoring environmental noise and planning long-term solutions to human well-being.
A model for cooperative scientific research inspired by the ant colony algorithm
Authors: He Zhuoran , Zhou Tingtao
Published: January 2022

Modern scientific research has become largely a cooperative activity in the Internet age. We build a simulation model to understand the population-level creativity based on the heuristic ant colony algorithm. Each researcher has two heuristic parameters characterizing the goodness of his own judgments and his trust on literature. We study how the distributions of contributor heuristic parameters change with the research problem scale, stage of the research problem, and computing power available. We also identify situations where path dependence and hasty research due to the pressure on productivity can significantly impede the long-term advancement of scientific research. Our work provides some preliminary understanding and guidance for the dynamical process of cooperative scientific research in various disciplines.