bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The use of optical coherence tomography angiography in comparing choriocapillaris recovery between two treatment strategies for multifocal choroiditis: a pilot clinical trial
Authors: Agarwal Aniruddha , Abhaypal Khushdeep , Aggarwal Kanika , Erckens Roel J. , Berendschot Tos T. J. M. , Webers C. A. B. , Dogra Mohit , Bansal Reema , Gupta Vishali
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To compare differences in choriocapillaris flow deficit (CC FD) in multifocal choroiditis (MFC) between two treatment arms using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Methods

In this prospective randomized clinical trial, patients were randomized to either Group 1 which received standard tapering dose of oral corticosteroids, or Group 2 which received additional dexamethasone implant (or intravitreal methotrexate). The patients were followed-up until 12 weeks using OCTA and other imaging tools. CC FD and visual acuity between the two groups were compared at each visit.

Results

Twenty-five subjects (17 males; 25 eyes) were studied (11 eyes in Group 1). There were no differences between the visual acuity or CC FD (1.12 versus 1.08 mm2; p = 0.86) at baseline between the groups. However, patients in Group 2 achieved better visual acuity (0.32 ± 0.23 versus 0.15 ± 0.11; p = 0.025) and CC FD (0.54 versus 0.15 mm2; p = 0.008) at 12 weeks.

Conclusions

OCTA is a useful tool in monitoring the CC FD recovery after treatment in MFC. Patients receiving intravitreal corticosteroid/methotrexate in addition to systemic corticosteroid showed greater resolution of CC FD on OCTA compared to those receiving only oral corticosteroids.
A comprehensive study of epitopes and immune reactivity among Plasmodium species
Authors: Kalkal Meenu , Kalkal Amit , Dhanda Sandeep Kumar , Das Emily , Pande Veena , Das Jyoti
Published: March 2022

Background

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by protozoan parasite of genusPlasmodium. Various antigenic proteins ofPlasmodiumare considered as the major targets for the development of an effective vaccine. The aim of the current study was a comprehensive analysis of the experimentally validated epitopes ofPlasmodiumobtained from various immunoassays.

Methods

Plasmodiumspecies epitopes were prefetched from Immune Epitope Database (IEDB). Species specific classification of available epitopes was done for both human and murine malaria parasites. Further, these T cell and B cell epitopes along with MHC I/II binders of differentPlasmodiumspecies were examined to find out their capability to induce IFN-γ and IL-10 using IFNepitope and IL-10 Pred, respectively.

Results

The species-specific classification of 6874 unique epitopes resulted in the selection of predominant human and murinePlasmodiumspecies. Further, the attempt was made to analyse the immune reactivity of these epitopes for their ability to induce cytokines namely IFN-γ and IL-10. Total, 2775 epitopes were predicted to possess IFN-γ inducing ability, whereas 1275 epitopes were found to be involved in the induction of IL-10.

Conclusions

This study facilitates the assessment ofPlasmodiumepitopes and associated proteins as a potential approach to design and develop an epitope-based vaccine. Moreover, the results highlight the epitope-based immunization in malaria to induce a protective immune response.
Predictive factors of postoperative fentanyl consumption in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tsuboi Sayaka , Kubota Kazumi , Mihara Takahiro , Taguri Masataka , Inagawa Gaku , Goto Takahisa
Published: March 2022

Background

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, might present difficulties in achieving postoperative analgesia. Prior studies have suggested that patients with IBD undergoing major abdominal surgery require higher doses of perioperative opioids than do patients without IBD. Considering patients with IBD potentially require high-dose opioids, identifying those requiring higher opioid doses will allow clinicians to optimize the perioperative opioid dose and avoid insufficient pain management or complications of opioid overdose. Therefore, we conducted this study to identify predictive factors that might influence postoperative opioid consumption in patients with IBD.

Methods

This single-center, historical cohort study reviewed the medical records of all patients admitted to the IBD center of our institution for surgery and who used intravenous fentanyl patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) after open abdominal surgery between June 2013 and April 2017. Ultimately, 179 patients were enrolled in the analysis. Variables expected to influence and/or represent pain, analgesia, inflammation, disease condition, and extent of surgery were selected as potential explanatory variables for predicting postoperative opioid consumption. Multivariable linear regression analysis was used to examine the effect of independent variables on postoperative fentanyl consumption.

Results

Of the nine predictive variables selected using the stepwise-selection method, eight were significant. Intraoperative fentanyl consumption, current smoking, ulcerative colitis, administration of biologics during the month before surgery, and the use of supplementary analgesics had a significant increasing effect on postoperative fentanyl consumption, whereas droperidol concentration in the PCA solution, age, and diabetes mellitus had a significant decreasing effect. Preoperative use of opioids was a non-significant variable. The adjusted coefficient of determination was 0.302.

Conclusions

Intraoperative fentanyl consumption, current smoking, ulcerative colitis, administration of biologics during the month before surgery, and the use of supplementary analgesics had a significant increasing effect, whereas droperidol concentration in the PCA solution, age, and diabetes mellitus had a significant decreasing effect on postoperative fentanyl consumption. These factors should be considered when adopting postoperative intravenous fentanyl PCA administration for patients with IBD.

Trial registration

Registry: UMIN Clinical Trials Registry.

Clinical Trial Number: UMIN000031198.

Date of registration: February 8, 2018.
Fasciculation intensity and limb dominance in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a muscle ultrasonographic study
Authors: Suzuki Yo-ichi , Shibuya Kazumoto , Misawa Sonoko , Suichi Tomoki , Tsuneyama Atsuko , Kojima Yuta , Nakamura Keigo , Kano Hiroki , Prado Mario , Kuwabara Satoshi
Published: March 2022

Background and purpose

Muscle ultrasonography has been increasingly recognized as a useful tool for detection of fasciculations. Separately, concordance between dominant hand and onset side has been reported in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The aim of this study was to reveal the distribution of fasciculations in the whole body, focusing on handedness.

Methods

In 106 consecutive patients with ALS, muscle ultrasonography was systematically performed in 11 muscles (the tongue, and bilateral biceps brachii, 1st dorsal interosseous [FDI], T10-paraspinalis, vastus lateralis and tibialis anterior muscles). The fasciculation intensity was scored from 0 to 3 for each muscle.

Results

Fasciculations were more frequently found in the limb muscles than the tongue and paraspinalis. Side and handedness analyses revealed that fasciculation intensity in FDI was significantly more prominent on the right (median [inter-quartile range] 2 [0 - 3]) than left (1.5 [0 - 3]; p = 0.016), and in the dominant hand (2 [1 - 3]) than non-dominant side (1.5 [0 - 3]; p = 0.025). The differences were greater in patients with upper limb onset. There were no side differences in the lower limb muscles. Multivariate analyses showed that male patients had more frequent fasciculations in the dominant FDI (β = 0.22, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

More intensive fasciculations are present in the FDI in the dominant hand and gender might be associated with fasciculation intensities. This distribution pattern of fasciculations might be associated with pathogenesis of ALS.
Elevated expression of RAB3B plays important roles in chemoresistance and metastatic potential of hepatoma cells
Authors: Tsunedomi Ryouichi , Yoshimura Kiyoshi , Kimura Yuta , Nishiyama Mitsuo , Fujiwara Nobuyuki , Matsukuma Satoshi , Kanekiyo Shinsuke , Matsui Hiroto , Shindo Yoshitaro , Watanabe Yusaku , Tokumitsu Yukio , Yoshida Shin , Iida Michihisa , Suzuki Nobuaki , Takeda Shigeru , Ioka Tatsuya , Hazama Shoichi , Nagano Hiroaki
Published: March 2022

Background

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to play important roles in carcinogenesis, recurrence, metastasis, and therapy-resistance. We have successfully induced cancer stem-like sphere cells (CSLCs) which possess enhanced chemoresistance and metastatic potential. To enable the development of targeted therapy against CSLCs, we identified a gene responsible for this phenotype in CSLC.

Methods

Human hepatoma cell line SK-HEP-1 was used for CSLC induction with a unique sphere inducing medium, and HuH-7 cells were used as non-sphere forming cells in the same condition. RNA-sequencing was performed followed by validation with quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting. Knockdown experiments were done by using CRISPR-Cas9 genome-editing, and the rescue experiments were performed using the expressing plasmid vector. Chemoresistance and liver metastasis of the cells, was studied following the splenic injection of cells to severely immune deficient mice and evaluated using the MTS assay. Quantification of exosomes in the medium was done using ELISA.

Results

RAB3B was identified as an up-regulated gene in both CSLCs and prognostically poor hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by RNA-sequencing. RAB3B-KD cells showed altered CSLC phenotypes such as sphere formation, chemoresistance, and metastatic potentials, and those were rescued by RAB3B complementation. Increased exosome secretion was observed in CSLCs, and it was not observed in the RAB3B-KD cells. In addition, the RAB3B expression correlated with the expression of ABCG2, APOE, LEPR, LXN, and TSPAN13.

Conclusion

The up regulation of RAB3B may play an important role in the chemoresistance and metastatic potential of CSLCs.
A modified Delphi study to identify screening items to assess neglected sexual side-effects following prostate cancer treatment
Authors: Röscher Pierre , Naidoo Kimesh , Milios Joanne E. , van Wyk Jacqueline M.
Published: March 2022

Background

Neglected sexual side effects (NSSE) are a group of less common sexual side effects that may present after Prostate Cancer (PCa) treatment. There is currently no valid and reliable tool to identify these side effects. A modified Delphi study is an effective way of developing the content of such a screening tool.

Methods

A modified Delphi study was used to obtain consensus from a multi-disciplinary group of experts over 3 rounds during a 12 week period. Ten statements were presented containing 8 closed-ended statements on individual NSSEs, and 2 open-ended statements on psychosocial impact related to NSSE. Consensus was defined as a 75% strongly agree achievement on each statement, or the final statement evolution at the end of 3 rounds. Statement support in each round was determined by mean, standard deviation and range, after a numerical value was allocated to each statement during specific rounds. All three rounds were structured and suggestions and additions were incorporated in the statement evolution of the three rounds.

Results

Thirty-five participants were invited, and 27 completed Round 1 (RD 1), 23 participants completed RD2, and 20 participants completed RD3. All 3 rounds were completed in 12 weeks. Statement 1 (sexual arousal incontinence), statement 2 (climacturia) and statement 3 (orgasm intensity) reached consensus after RD2, and statement 9 (sexual dysfunction impact) and statement 10 (experiences) were removed after RD3. Statement 4 (orgasmic pain), statement 5 (anejaculation), statement 6 (sensory disturbances), statement 7 (penile length shortening) and statement 8 (penile curvature) were finalised after the conclusion of RD3. Statements 1–3 were the most stable statements with the most support and least amount of disagreement. Statements 4–8 were less stable, but support for them improved over the 3 rounds. Statements 9–10 both had good stability, but the support indicated that they needed to be removed from the set of statements. Statement 5 had the poorest range due to an outlier opinion.

Conclusions

Consensus was reached on the items making up the NSSE screening tool. Health care practitioners will be able to use this tool to identify the evidence of NSSE after PCa treatment. Further testing will be undertaken to confirm the reliability and validly of the tool.
Morphometric study of the ventricular indexes in healthy ovine BRAIN using MRI
Authors: Trovatelli Marco , Spediacci Carlotta , Castellano Antonella , Bernardini Andrea , Dini Daniele , Malfassi Luca , Pieri Valentina , Falini Andrea , Ravasio Giuliano , Riva Marco , Bello Lorenzo , Brizzola Stefano , Zani Davide Danilo
Published: March 2022

Background

Sheep (Ovis aries) have been largely used as animal models in a multitude of specialties in biomedical research. The similarity to human brain anatomy in terms of brain size, skull features, and gyrification index, gives to ovine as a large animal model a better translational value than small animal models in neuroscience. Despite this evidence and the availability of advanced imaging techniques, morphometric brain studies are lacking. We herein present the morphometric ovine brain indexes and anatomical measures developed by two observers in a double-blinded study and validated via an intra- and inter-observer analysis.

Results

For this retrospective study, T1-weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans were performed at 1.5 T on 15 sheep, under general anaesthesia. The animals were female Ovis aries, in the age of 18-24 months. Two observers assessed the scans, twice time each. The statistical analysis of intra-observer and inter-observer agreement was obtained via the Bland-Altman plot and Spearman rank correlation test.

The results are as follows (mean ± Standard deviation):

Indexes: Bifrontal 0,338 ± 0,032 cm; Bicaudate 0,080 ± 0,012 cm; Evans’ 0,218 ± 0,035 cm; Ventricular 0,241 ± 0,039 cm; Huckman 1693 ± 0,174 cm; Cella Media 0,096 ± 0,037 cm; Third ventricle ratio 0,040 ± 0,007 cm.

Anatomical measures: Fourth ventricle length 0,295 ± 0,073 cm; Fourth ventricle width 0,344 ± 0,074 cm; Left lateral ventricle 4175 ± 0,275 cm; Right lateral ventricle 4182 ± 0,269 cm; Frontal horn length 1795 ± 0,303 cm; Interventricular foramen left 1794 ± 0,301 cm; Interventricular foramen right 1,78 ± 0,317 cm.

Conclusions

The present study provides baseline values of linear indexes of the ventricles in the ovine models. The acquisition of these data contributes to filling the knowledge void on important anatomical and morphological features of the sheep brain.
HDAC7 promotes NSCLC proliferation and metastasis via stabilization by deubiquitinase USP10 and activation of β-catenin-FGF18 pathway
Authors: Guo Kai , Ma Zhiqiang , Zhang Yujiao , Han Lu , Shao Changjian , Feng Yingtong , Gao Fei , Di Shouyin , Zhang Zhipei , Zhang Jiao , Tabbò Fabrizio , Ekman Simon , Suda Kenichi , Cappuzzo Federico , Han Jing , Li Xiaofei , Yan Xiaolong
Published: March 2022

Background

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) play crucial roles in cancers, but the role and mechanism of HDAC7 in NSCLC have not been fully understood.

Methods

A total of 319 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who underwent surgery were enrolled in this study. Immunohistochemistry and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis were performed to investigate the relationship between HDAC7, fibroblast growth factor 18 (FGF18) expression, and clinicopathologic characteristics. Cell functional experiments were implemented both in vivo and in vitro to investigate the effects on NSCLC cell proliferation and metastasis. Recombinant lentivirus–meditated in vivo gene overexpression or knockdown, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), western blotting, and coimmunoprecipitation assays were applied to clarify the underlying molecular mechanism of HDAC7 in promoting NSCLC progression.

Results

The elevated expression of HDAC7 or FGF18 was positively correlated with poor prognosis, tumor–node–metastasis (TNM) stage, and tumor differentiation of NSCLC patients. NSCLC patients with co-expressed HDAC7 and FGF18 suffered the worst prognosis. HDAC7 overexpression promoted NSCLC proliferation and metastasis by upregulating FGF18. Conversely, overexpression of FGF18 reversed the attenuated ability in tumor growth and metastasis mediated by downregulating HDAC7. In terms of mechanism, our results suggested that the interaction of HDAC7 with β-catenin caused decreased β-catenin acetylation level at Lys49 and decreased phosphorylation level at Ser45. As a consequence, the HDAC7-mediated posttranslational modification of β-catenin facilitated nuclear transfer and activated FGF18 expression via binding to TCF4. Furthermore, deubiquitinase USP10 interacted with and stabilized HDAC7. The suppression of USP10 significantly accelerated the degradation of HDAC7 and weakened NSCLC growth and migration.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal that HDAC7 promotes NSCLC progression through being stabilized by USP10 and activating the β-catenin-FGF18 pathway. Targeting this novel pathway may be a promising strategy for further developments in NSCLC therapy.
Moxidectin: heartworm disease prevention in dogs in the face of emerging macrocyclic lactone resistance
Authors: Savadelis Molly D. , McTier Tom L. , Kryda Kristina , Maeder Steven J. , Woods Debra J.
Published: March 2022

Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) disease continues to increase and spread, remaining one of the most important and pathogenic parasitic diseases of dogs, despite the regular use of macrocyclic lactones (MLs) in preventive products. Dogs harboring strains ofD. immitisresistant to MLs, the only drug class available for heartworm prevention in the United States, have been documented and proven. As no new products are available utilizing a novel drug class for the prevention of this disease, the only options for combating ML resistance include increasing the dose and/or changing the dosage regime of current MLs, or by optimizing the formulations of MLs currently available. Moxidectin provides a unique opportunity for optimization of the dose and formulation, which may provide improved efficacy against ML-resistant strains. Currently there are oral, topical, and injectable moxidectin products approved for heartworm prevention in the USA. Two new products (ProHeart®12 and Simparica Trio®), available in many countries around the world including the USA, take advantage of the unique attributes of moxidectin for providing robust heartworm prevention against the strains of heartworm to which most dogs in the USA will likely be exposed. Both products have demonstrated 100% preventive efficacy in laboratory studies against recently collected field strains of heartworm, and also in large field studies, where the majority of dogs were living in the southern USA in areas where ML resistance has been confirmed to occur, therefore under elevated heartworm challenge. Based on the data summarized here, these products offer important advances in heartworm prevention and provide additional options for veterinarians and pet owners to protect their dogs from developing heartworm disease.

Graphical Abstract
Adoption of ICT innovations in the agriculture sector in Africa: a review of the literature
Authors: Ayim Claudia , Kassahun Ayalew , Addison Chris , Tekinerdogan Bedir
Published: March 2022

According to the latest World Economic Forum report, about 70% of the African population depends on agriculture for their livelihood. This makes agriculture a critical sector within the African continent. Nonetheless, agricultural productivity is low and food insecurity is still a challenge. This has in recent years led to several initiatives in using ICT to improve agriculture productivity. However, a systematic review of the evidence categorized by the various aspects of the topic is lacking. This study investigates the state of the art of ICT innovations within the agriculture sector in Africa. To achieve this, we reviewed the literature published from 2010 to 2019 in which ICT innovations were discussed. Our search in four major literature databases yielded 779 papers, of which we selected 23 primary studies for a detailed analysis. The analysis shows that the main ICT technologies adopted are text and voice-based services targeting mobile phones. The analysis also shows that radios are still widely used in disseminating agriculture information to rural farmers, while computers are mainly used by researchers. Though the mobile-based services were aimed at improving access to accurate and timely agriculture information, the literature review indicates that the adoption of the services is constrained by poor technological infrastructure, inappropriate ICT policies, and low level of user skills, especially of farmers, in using the technologies.
Genomic patterns of homozygosity and inbreeding depression in Murciano-Granadina goats
Authors: Luigi-Sierra María Gracia , Fernández Almudena , Martínez Amparo , Guan Dailu , Delgado Juan Vicente , Álvarez Javier Fernández , Landi Vincenzo , Such Francesc Xavier , Jordana Jordi , Saura María , Amills Marcel
Published: March 2022

Background

Inbreeding depression can adversely affect traits related to fitness, reproduction and productive performance. Although current research suggests that inbreeding levels are generally low in most goat breeds, the impact of inbreeding depression on phenotypes of economic interest has only been investigated in a few studies based on genealogical data.

Results

We genotyped 1040 goats with the Goat SNP50 BeadChip. This information was used to estimate different molecular inbreeding coefficients and characterise runs of homozygosity and homozygosity patterns. We detected 38 genomic regions with increased homozygosity as well as 8 ROH hotspots mapping to chromosomes 1, 2, 4, 6, 14, 16 and 17. Eight hundred seventeen goats with available records for dairy traits were analysed to evaluate the potential consequences of inbreeding depression on milk phenotypes. Four regions on chromosomes 8 and 25 were significantly associated with inbreeding depression for the natural logarithm of the somatic cell count. Notably, these regions contain several genes related with immunity, such as SYK, IL27, CCL19 and CCL21. Moreover, one region on chromosome 2 was significantly associated with inbreeding depression for milk yield.

Conclusions

Although genomic inbreeding levels are low in Murciano-Granadina goats, significant evidence of inbreeding depression for the logarithm of the somatic cell count, a phenotype closely associated with udder health and milk yield, have been detected in this population. Minimising inbreeding would be expected to augment economic gain by increasing milk yield and reducing the incidence of mastitis, which is one of the main causes of dairy goat culling.
An exploration of cultural influencing factors on dietary diversity in Malagasy children aged 6–59 months
Authors: Ribeli Jacqueline , Pfister Franziska
Published: March 2022

Background

More than 1.7 million children in Madagascar are stunted, with low dietary diversity being a determinant. Although diverse crops are produced in the Vakinankaratra region, it registers the highest stunting prevalence rate nationally. While children’s diets may be influenced by region-specific cultural factors, little is known about this link so far. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of cultural habits on dietary diversity in children between 6 to 59 months in the Vakinankaratra region.

Methods

A mixed method design with a qualitative lead approach was used, including three transect walks, six focus group discussions and 51 semi-structured interviews with caregivers. The interviews contained a quantitative part to assess the four feeding indicators: ‘minimum meal frequency’, ‘minimum dietary diversity’, ‘minimum acceptable diet’ and the consumption of iron-rich foods. Participants were selected by convenience sampling. Data was collected in November 2019 in three communities displaying maximal possible variation.

Results

Subsistence farming with diverse crops and livestock was found to be a common practice. Minimum meal frequency was achieved by 78% of the sixty included children. In total, 45% attained minimum dietary diversity and 40% consumed a minimum acceptable diet. Across the three communities, the range of children attaining a minimum acceptable diet was 25–60%. Older, no longer breastfed children were prone to not achieving a minimum acceptable diet. Although caregivers had a basic idea of important foods for child development, these were often not available to or affordable for them. An effect of cultural events on diet, especially diversity, was found. Whilst for annual events this effect was short-term, the region-specific ceremony of reburying the dead (Famadihana) was found to have a long-term influence on the diet of certain families.

Conclusions

The dietary diversity of children under five in the Vakinankaratra region is influenced by cultural factors like agricultural practices, caregivers’ knowledge of child nutrition, food taboos and a region-specific cultural event. Cultural determinants, especially important traditions that result in significant expenditures, may thus influence the quality of children’s diet and should therefore be considered in future nutrition programmes and research on child malnutrition and stunting.
Impact of containment measures on community mobility, daily confirmed cases, and mortality in the third wave of COVID-19 epidemic in Myanmar
Authors: Htun Ye Minn , Win Tun Tun , Shan Nyan Htet , Winn Zin Thu , Thu Kaung Si , Maung Nyan Lin , Aung Pyae Phyo , Kyaw Htun Aung , Kyaw Hpone Pji , Soe Yan Naing Myint , Ko Myint Myat , Aung Zin Ko , Aung Kyaw Thiha , Lwin Yan Paing Chit , Yan Wai , Soe Phyo Tayza , Tun Kyaw Myo
Published: March 2022

In Myanmar, third wave of COVID-19 epidemic began with a surge of confirmed cases in the last week of May 2021. The laboratory-confirmed cases and deaths distinctly increased within 9 weeks. The government and the Ministry of Health adopted containment measures to flatten the peak of the epidemic and to suppress the disease transmission. The strictly containment measures: stay-at-home restrictions, school closure, and office closure have reduced the community mobility, confirmed cases and mortality. Therefore, the timely containment measures implemented by the government were important to reduce the transmission as observed in the third wave of COVID-19 epidemic in Myanmar.
Flipping the flipped class: using online collaboration to enhance EFL students’ oral learning skills
Authors: Fischer Ian Douglas , Yang Jie Chi
Published: March 2022

Extensive research on the in-class synchronous learning aspect of the flipped classroom approach (FCA) has rendered favorable results the past decade. However, less attention has been placed on the out-of-class component of the FCA, specifically the drawbacks that may occur, such as low student accountability while watching the pre-assigned video lessons, thus coming to class unprepared, and not using the latest online technological to its full potential. This study addresses these issues by examining the impact of creating a more synchronous/collaborative online out-of-class flipped-class component. Using the latest online technology, a newly proposed flipped group (PFG) was created and then compared to a regular flipped group (RFG), and a traditional class (TC) over 14 weeks. Fifty-four undergraduate business students from a university in Taiwan participated in the study. Mock International English Language Testing System (IELTS) oral pre/post-tests were given to all participants to investigate which teaching approach is more effective. The results showed the PFG significantly improved overall on average, out-preforming the RFG. Surprisingly, the TC significantly performed better than the RFG. In addition, significant differences and correlations also occurred between the PFG and RFG students’ online learning behaviors and objective performances, such as the time spent online viewing the assigned video lessons and the effects on their quiz and final grade scores. This study’s findings support creating a more synchronous/collaborative online learning environment can enhance the out-of-class component of a FCA, and therefore help improve student’s overall oral/aural EFL learning.
Prevalence and risk factors for suicide in patients with sepsis: nationwide cohort study in South Korea
Authors: Oh Tak Kyu , Park Hye Yoon , Song In-Ae
Published: March 2022

Background

Although a recent study reported that survivors of critical illness have an increased risk of suicide, the suicide rate and factors associated with suicide in patients with sepsis have not yet been investigated.

Aims

We aimed to examine the prevalence and risk factors of suicide among patients with sepsis in South Korea.

Method

All adult patients who were admitted to all hospitals in South Korea with a main diagnosis of sepsis, from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2018, were included in the study. The primary outcome was suicide within 1 year after sepsis diagnosis.

Results

A total of 251 837 adult patients with sepsis were included, of which 132 691 patients (52.7%) died within 1 year after the diagnosis of sepsis, and death by suicide was the cause in 3903 patients (1.5%). Older age, male gender, living in a rural area, higher Charlson Comorbidity Index and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index scores, invasive treatment (continuous renal replacement therapy and mechanical ventilator support) and admission to a hospital with low annual case volumes were associated with a higher risk of suicide. In addition, concurrent substance misuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, dementia and previous attempt of suicide or self-harm were associated with a higher risk of suicide.

Conclusions

During the 1-year follow-up period, 1.5% of patients died by suicide after the diagnosis of sepsis in South Korea. Knowledge of the factors associated with suicide might allow for earlier intervention to potentially reduce the number of suicide attempts in patients with sepsis.
Mental health consequences of COVID-19 in house staff physicians
Authors: Espinosa-Guerra Edward , Rodríguez-Barría Edgar , Donnelly Christl , Carrera Jean-Paul
Published: March 2022

Background: A new coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, was associated with a newly identified respiratory syndrome, COVID-19 in Wuhan, China, in early December 2019. SARS-CoV-2 rapidly spread across the globe, imposing increased working hours and workloads for healthcare workers. We have evaluated the prevalence of mental health outcomes and associated factors in house staff physicians in Panama.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken from July 23, 2020, to August 13, 2020. Snowball sampling was used to recruit participants. Then, an electronic questionnaire with scales to evaluate anxiety disorders (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9) and post-traumatic stress (IES-R) was administered. In addition, socio-demographic variables, clinical history of mental disorders and COVID-19 exposure were evaluated. Independent analyses for each mental health outcome were undertaken using a logistic regression analysis.

Results: A total of 517/1,205 (42.9%) interns and residents were recruited nationwide. The overall prevalence of depression symptoms was 25.3%, 13.7% for anxiety and 12.2% for post-traumatic stress. At least 9.3% participants reported having suicidal ideation. The most parsimonious model showed females had a higher prevalence of mental health disorders across results, and married participants were more likely to present depression (OR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.03-2.91; P = 0.039) or at least one mental health disorder (OR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.03-2.68; P = 0.039).

Conclusions: A high prevalence of mental health disorders was found, showing the need to mitigate this emotional burden among healthcare workers in the current context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Synthesis and characterization of silica xerogel from corn husk waste as cationic dyes adsorbent
Authors: Dahliyanti Ayu , Yunitama Devi Aryanihanan , Rofiqoh Iftahul Maulina , Mustapha Mazli
Published: March 2022

Background: High corn production and consumption in Indonesia have led to massive corn husk waste. To increase the economic value of corn husk waste, innovations have utilized its silica content as an alternative source for the synthesis of multifunctional silica compounds.

Methods: In this research, silica xerogel was successfully synthesized from corn husk via the sol-gel method. Its physical properties and capabilities as an adsorbent to remove cationic dyes such as crystal violet and methylene blue in wastewater were investigated for the first time.

Results: The as-synthesized silica xerogel possesses an amorphous crystal structure with an average pore diameter of 6.35 nm, a Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET) surface area of 363.72 m2/g, and particle size ranging from 80 to 250 μm. The optimum contact times of silica xerogel are 90 minutes for crystal violet and 120 minutes for methylene blue adsorptions. While at the same time, the dye removal efficiencies are as high as 98.539% and 96.184%, respectively. The adsorption of both crystal violet and methylene blue on silica xerogel follows the Langmuir isotherm model and exhibits a high monolayer capacity of 69.44 mg/g and 59.17 mg/g, respectively.

Conclusions: These findings suggest the great potential of silica xerogel synthesized from corn husk as a low-cost and effective cationic dye adsorbent.
Implementing the Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale (MPAS) in universal services: Qualitative interviews with health visitors
Authors: Bird Philippa K , Hindson Zoe , Dunn Abigail , Cronin de Chavez Anna , Dickerson Josie , Howes Joanna , Bywater Tracey
Published: March 2022

Background: A secure parent-infant relationship lays the foundations for children’s development, however there are currently no measurement tools recommended for clinical practice. We evaluate the clinical utility of a structured assessment of the parent-infant relationship (the Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale, MPAS) in a deprived, multi-ethnic urban community in England. This paper answers the question: what are health visitors’ views on the parent-infant relationship, and experiences of piloting the MPAS? It explores the barriers and facilitators to implementation, and complements the paper on psychometric properties and representativeness reported in Dunn et al (submitted).  

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 health visitors and data were analysed using thematic analysis. 

Results: Health visitors saw identification and support of the parent-infant relationship as an important part of their role, and reported benefits of the MPAS, including opening conversation, and identifying and reporting concerns. Challenges included timing and workload, the appropriateness of language, perceived intrusiveness and understanding of the questions, and the length of the tool. Suggestions for improvements to the tool were put forwards. 

Conclusions: The experiences, benefits and challenges identified help to explain results in Dunn et al, and the wide-ranging challenges identified would hinder assessment of the parent-infant relationship in routine practice. Further work with health professionals and parents has been undertaken to co-produce an acceptable, feasible and reliable tool for clinical practice.
ANALYSIS ON OHE DESIGN AND MECHANICAL PERFORMANCE OF CELLULAR AUXETIC STRUCTURES: A REVIEWADEDEJI ABDULLAHI
Authors: ABDULLAHI ADEDEJI , WANG ZHONGGANG , LIU JIEFU
Published: March 2022

Auxetic structures (also metamaterials) are those which exhibit a negative Poisson ratio (NPR) property, whereby they display the unusual property of lateral expansion in tension, as well as an equal and opposing densification when compressed. This behavior they possess has made it suitable for tailored applications in areas ranging from transportation, mechanical, medical as well as in intelligent expandable actuators. The work carried out in this paper, broadly explores and reviews various design techniques of cellular auxetic structures (planar, tubular, and arched) as well as their manufacturing techniques. Theoretical, numerical, and experimental methods have all been carried out to study the properties of these structures, these methods are discussed. Furthermore, the auxetic behavior, and mechanical properties, of these structures predominantly along their in-plane/axial direction are reviewed, although studies along the out-of-plane/lateral direction haven’t been extensively explored. Finally, some challenges and future explorable opportunities with regards to the auxetic tubes are discussed.
STUDY ON FAULT DIAGNOSIS FOR AXLEBOX BEARING OF HIGH SPEED EMU BASED ON CONVOLUTIONAL NEURAL NETWORK
Authors: HU XIAOYI , JING YUNJIAN , SONG ZHIKUN , XU LICHENG
Published: March 2022

Considering that the traditional intelligent diagnosis methods rely too much on signal processing and expert experience to extract fault features and poor model generalization ability, based on deep learning theory, a convolutional neural network algorithm combined with Softmax classifier is proposed to construct deep convolutional neural network model suitable for fault diagnosis for axlebox bearings of high speed EMU. The model convolutions layer by layer from the measured axlebox vibration signals of high speed trains to achieve adaptive feature extraction and fault recognition. The introduction of batch normalization, regularization and Dropout processing effectively improves the model's recognition accuracy and generalization ability. The experimental results show that the optimized deep learning model can accurately extract fault features, realize accurate recognition of single faults and compound faults, and can maintain better recognition performance on unbalanced data sets, and performance evaluation based on statistical indicators. The superiority of model classification performance is also proved in this paper.
RESEARCH ON ANALYSIS AND SOLUTION OF ABNORMAL VIBRATION FOR EMU CARBODY
Authors: GUANGBING LUO , JING ZENG , FENG GAN , FANSONG LI
Published: March 2022

Recently, the problem of abnormal vibration of the EMU carbody has occurred from time to time. When the carbody is abnormally vibrated, the Sperling index and ride comfort of the vehicle can be greatly reduced, which is unfavorable for its operation. The paper established and a vehicle-shake simulation model which was verified based on the measured wheel-rail profile and vibration data. Additionally, the causes and solutions of abnormal vehicle body vibration were studied. The research results illustrate that the EMU has a relatively high level of wheel-rail equivalent conicity in the shaking section, causing the secondary hunting instability. The main frequency of the instability is 9-10 Hz, which is close to the first-order diamond mode frequency of the carbody. Therefore, the elastic resonance of the carbody occurs, resulting in the shake phenomenon. Through simulation analysis, it is found that wheelset reprofiling and rail polishing can improve the operation stability of EMUs and effectively solve the shaking motion; Furthermore, increasing the first-order diamond mode frequency of the carbody and controlling the hunting phase of the front and rear bogies can also avoid the shaking motion. At the same time, the equivalent conicity management through the detection of the wheel profile can efficiently prevent the hunting instability and carbody shaking, providing a reference for wheel reprofiling and rail polishing.
O concheiro do Lisandro (Mafra, Lisboa, Portugal): novos dados sobre a exploração de recursos aquáticos no Neolítico da Península de Lisboa.
Authors: Catarina Sousa Ana , Miranda Marta , Costa Ana Maria , Tereso João , Valério Pedro , Monge Soares António
Published: March 2022

O presente artigo efectua uma primeira apresentação do concheiro neolítico do Lisandro (Mafra, Lisboa, Portugal), numa abordagem interdisciplinar. Identificado em 2017 e objecto de uma escavação de emergência em 2018, Lisandro apresenta um depósito conquífero entre dunas, evidenciando uma ocupação exclusivamente relacionada com o consumo de fauna malacológica (bivalves e gastrópodes) datada do 3º quartel do 5º milénio a.n.e. Trata-se de um sítio temporário, sendo muito escassos os materiais recolhidos, destacando-se dois fragmentos de cerâmica decorada de tradição do Neolítico antigo. Numa leitura comparativa com outros contextos regionais do Mesolítico e Neolítico antigo, regista-se em geral uma grande continuidade nos padrões de mobilidade nos concheiros desta região, do Mesolítico antigo até ao Calcolítico. Os indicadores paleoambientais, em particular os dados malacológicos e antracológicos, parecem indicar mudanças ambientais, o impacto de actividade agro-pastoril e uma menor importância dos recursos aquáticos no 5º milénio.
Implementation of Building Information Modelling in infrastructure construction projects: a study of dimensions and strategies
Authors: Ershadi Mahmoud , Jefferies Marcus , Davis Peter , Mojtahedi Mohammad
Published: March 2022

The emergence of Building Information Modelling (BIM) has revolutionized the infrastructure construction industry by introducing real-time and collaborative information management tools to be used throughout the lifecycle of projects.The importance of BIM in this industry has been emphasized in previous research. However, strategies for the implementation of this system is still less explored, which requires more elaboration and validation. The purpose of this paper is to investigate such strategies considering all necessary dimensions of the BIM system in infrastructure construction projects. The findings are based on theoretical discussion and semi-structured interviews in a case study project in New South Wales, Australia. The results revealed that BIM integrates various elements of infrastructure construction, which include but are not limited to risk, time, cost, energy, safety, and sustainability. It was found that implementation strategies should focus on improving the contribution of the BIM system to infrastructure construction in terms of improved (1) integrity and automation, (2) collaboration, and (3) optimization. Identification of seven technical and managerial implementations strategies is the core contribution of this research. These strategies provide practitioners with insight into technical and managerial measures to be taken for the successful implementation of the BIM system.
O FENÔMENO DE SEGUNDA RESIDÊNCIA COMO UM DOS INDUTORES DA EXPANSÃO URBANA DAS METRÓPOLES NO CONTEXTO DE GLOBALIZAÇÃO: UMA ANÁLISE SOBRE O RIO DE JANEIRO
Authors: Lessa da Rocha Antonio Carlos
Published: March 2022

Este artigo procura analisar o fenômeno de segunda residência como um dos indutores da expansão da urbanização em área periférica da metrópole. Para entender esse processo foi necessária uma análise dos modelos e processos clássicos desse fenômeno e sua adequação ao mundo globalizado, e como se aplicam na expansão urbana. O artigo apresenta-se estruturado em três partes: A primeira aborda algumas considerações conceituais sobre a segunda residência como fator de expansão urbana da metrópole. A segunda parte analisa os modelos e processos clássicos de segunda residência no espaço geográfico e por último como esse fenômeno se desenvolve no território fluminense. As reflexões suscitadas por este artigo apontaram que o espaço geográfico metropolitano sofreu alterações socioeconômicas que culminou na expansão da urbanização de diversas metrópoles no Brasil e no mundo.
GEOTECNOLOGIAS LIVRES NO CADASTRO IMOBILIÁRIO DE MUNICÍPIOS DO NORTE DE MINAS GERAIS
Authors: Antunes Rodrigues Hérick Lyncon , Gonçalves Borges Mariley , Esdras Leite Marcos
Published: March 2022

O cadastro técnico contribui na arrecadação municipal, que por sua vez, retorna à população por meio de serviços públicos urbanos, como na instalação de infraestrutura e na implantação de novos equipamentos urbanos. Na construção do cadastro, as geotecnologias livres são ferramentas que possibilitam a identificação, análise e correlação de dados espaciais, o que otimiza tempo e recurso financeiro. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a aplicabilidade dos produtos gerados a partir das geotecnologias livres no desenvolvimento do cadastro técnico, para os municípios de Montes Claros, Brasília de Minas e Luislândia, no Norte de Minas Gerais. Este trabalho se justifica pela importância do cadastro técnico, uma vez que, os dados gerados contribuem no planejamento e na gestão municipal, permitindo obter informações do território. A metodologia utilizada consistiu na revisão da literatura, desenvolvimento de produtos cartográficos a partir dos softwares SAS.Planet e QGIS, visita aos cadastros técnicos das cidades de Luislândia, Brasília de Minas e Montes Claros. Como resultado, constatou-se que, as prefeituras municipais possuem um cadastro técnico informatizado e sua estrutura compreende dados analógicos e digitais. Com base nas análises efetuadas, as geotecnologias livres apresentam resultados satisfatórios na construção do cadastro técnico para os municípios do Norte de Minas Gerais, independente da dimensão da área urbana e da arrecadação municipal.
ANÁLISES DA TRANSFORMAÇÃO ANTRÓPICA E MORFOMÉTRICA DA BACIA HIDROGRÁFICA DO CÓRREGO PIRAPUTANGA, MATO GROSSO, BRASIL
Authors: Rodrigues Luciene Da Costa , Neves Sandra Mara Alves da Silva , Da Silva Marqueciane Benevides , De Paiva Sophia Leitão Pastorello , Kreitlow Jesã Pereira
Published: March 2022

O estudo da Paisagem contribui no entendimento das questões de conservação e mitigação de impactos ambientais em bacias hidrográficas. Nesse sentido, este trabalho tem como objetivo realizar as análises da transformação antrópica e morfométrica da Bacia Hidrográfica do Córrego Piraputanga, no município mato-grossense e brasileiro de Cáceres. Para a geração de mapas de cobertura vegetal e usos de 1980 a 2020 e as análises de Transformação Antrópica, Lineares e Areais utilizou-se ferramentas geotecnológicas. A Pecuária aumentou nos anos pesquisados, ocasionando o desmatamento e a fragmentação da vegetação. Ainda assim, o estado de conservação da paisagem permaneceu regular nos anos investigados. A bacia apresenta formato alongado e baixa quantidade de cursos hídricos e menor capacidade de desenvolvê-los. A bacia é do tipo sinuosa e a bifurcação indica que o número de canais decresce em média 3 a 4 vezes ao passar de uma ordem inferior para uma superior, indicando um relevo colinoso. Concluiu-se que a inserção dos diferentes tipos de usos da terra, ao longo do tempo, causou a fragmentação da cobertura vegetal da bacia, que poderá futuramente implicar desfavoravelmente no estado de conservação da paisagem.
NOTAS SOBRE O MERCADO IMOBILIÁRIO URBANO E A FORMAÇÃO DE CIDADES GLOBAIS NA AMÉRICA LATINA
Authors: Fabiane Darlan , Spinelli Juçara
Published: March 2022

Este artigo tem por objetivo compreender o espaço urbano-regional a partir da ação de agentes que coordenam a produção imobiliária em metrópoles latino-americanas. A orientação procedimental seguiu a metodologia da pesquisa bibliográfica e levantamentos de dados, tendo por referência as principais revistas latino-americanas de estudos urbanos e regionais. Foram investigadas as quatro metrópoles consideradas as mais globais da América Latina a partir do critério da presença de “Oficinas Premium”, no intuito de entender como ocorreu e quais as consequências da formação do espaço global. Após breve definição de alguns termos, são apresentados os cenários que tornaram Cidade do México, São Paulo, Santiago e Buenos Aires as principais cidades globais da América Latina. O artigo finaliza com apontamentos relativos à reestruturação dos centros urbanos, à expansão horizontal da cidade, à dinâmica populacional, à ação do poder público e ao acirramento das desigualdades em consequência deste processo de globalização.