bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ÍNDICE DE ANOMALIA DE CHUVAS DO ESTADO DO TOCANTINS
Authors: Marcuzzo Francisco , Goularte Elvis Richard P.
Published: March 2017

A análise do comportamento das chuvas se torna importante uma vez que possibilita detectar tendências ou alterações no clima, em escalas locais, regionais, estaduais, nacionais e continentais. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo analisar a variação do Índice de Anomalia de Chuva (IAC) da precipitação pluvial no estado do Tocantins. Utilizaram-se dados de 43 estações pluviométricas distribuídas no estado, dados de 30 anos, 1977 a 2006, onde foram calculados os Índices de Anomalia de Chuva mensais para a classificação dos períodos secos e úmidos de acordo com a média local organizadas em médias temporais. Os resultados mostraram que a distribuição pluviométrica no estado do Tocantins apresenta uma grande variação nos índices interanuais precipitados em cada mês. No mês de janeiro, que é o mês mais úmido no estado do Tocantins, de 1977 a 2006, observou-se que o cálculo do IAC detectou 13 anos úmidos e 17 anos secos. Com a aplicação do IAC, para o período de estudo de 30 anos, pode-se concluir que houve um maior número de anos secos do que de anos úmidos, ou seja, houve uma tendência de diminuição das chuvas no estado do Tocantins para o período histórico estudado de 1977 a 2006.
CONTRIBUIÇÕES DO MÉTODO GEOSSISTÊMICO AOS ESTUDOS INTEGRADOS DA PAISAGEM
Authors: Oliveira Anizia , Melo e Souza Rosemeri
Published: March 2017

O presente artigo objetiva exprimir, com base na discussão sobre a paisagem e na reflexão sobre questões teórico-metodológicas de análise, a relevância para a Geografia Física da perspectiva geossistêmica na condução de estudos integrados. Mediante uma breve trajetória sobre o desenvolvimento do conceito de paisagem, partindo de Humboldt até os dias atuais, e tendo como base a contribuição de diversas escolas, foi possível discutir a importância da compreensão dos fenômenos geográficos a partir da uma abordagem integradora.
Domestic Electric Power Generator Usage and Residents Livability Milieu in Ogbomoso, Nigeria
Authors: Akin Akindele O. , O. Adejumobi D.
Published: March 2017

Incessant electric power failures have forced Nigerian residents into extensive use of electric power generator. This implicates a host of environmental livability glitches. This study therefore appraises the livability implications of domestic usage of electric power generators. The relative incidence of generator use was appraised. Residents’ livability was also assessed across the three recognizable residential densities of the city having 20 political wards. Out of the total 561, 56 urban blocks (10%) were sampled. A questionnaire was administered to 511 respondents using a multi stage approach. Noise dosimeter was used to measure the noise level. Likert scaling method was used in the transformation of ordinal data into ratio or interval data. Regression analysis was used to explain the relationship between the relative incidence of electric generator use (GUI) and the relative level of residents’ livability (RLI) in the study. A high level incidence of power outage (81%) was observed to have encouraged a high incidence (78.6%) of electric generator use. There was observed a reliable relationship between relative incidence of electric generator use and residents’ livability(R = -811, P = .000). Economic, health and social components (in the order of listing) are affected by the use of electric generators. The study thus recommends physical, environmental, legal and administrative resolutions to eliminate the negative effects of electric power generator use.
“All the Lonely People”: Joyce'sDubliners, Paul McCartney, and the Songbook ofThe Beatles
Authors: Connolly Martin Christopher
Published: March 2017

This paper seeks to explore what might be called intriguing commonalities or parallels between some short stories by James Joyce, from his 1914 collection Dubliners, and some songs by The Beatles. I do suggest the possibility of influence, but reserve the bulk of my observations to making connections between narratives which have never been linked in any way before. This exploration allows us to see The Beatles in a new light, yet, not only: this study can also help in the classroom, helping students to come to a better understanding of some particularly challenging areas within Joyce's narratives. I make linkage between the Beatles songs “For No One” and “She's Leaving Home” and Joyce's “Eveline,” in terms of narrative events, tone and compositional approach. I also make a connection between Joyce's “Clay” and the Beatles' “Eleanor Rigby”: these narratives share a number of thematic elements. Furthermore, this song can also be seen as containing many of the overarching themes of the 1914 book. As all of the songs under consideration are primarily written by Paul McCartney, I discuss what I see as shared artistic methods and approaches between McCartney and Joyce.
The “Negro Branch” Library in Memphis: A Case Study of Public Services in a Segregated Southern City
Authors: Knowlton Steven A.
Published: March 2017

Memphis was a pioneer among southern cities in providing segregated library services to African Americans in 1903. However, those services were unequal to services offered to white citizens, and subject to political forces aimed at perpetuating white supremacy. By the 1930s African Americans had become a crucial voting bloc that supported the political machine of “Boss” Crump, who dominated city government between 1927 and 1954. Improved library service was one of many civic amenities that were provided in African American communities as part of an unstated bargain between the Crump machine and African American voters of Memphis. The library became one of many community-building institutions that helped a generation of African American leaders in Memphis prepare for the struggles of the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s.
Lester J. Cappon and the Idea of the Public Scholar
Authors: Cox Richard James
Published: March 2017

Lester J. Cappon (1900–1981) deserves a place as a pioneer public scholar. Over six decades, he worked as an historian, archivist, documentary editor, historical administrator, and president of archival and historical associations. Drawing on Cappon's rich personal papers, especially his diary kept from 1954 to 1981, this essay explores Cappon's legitimate claim to be a public historian and, in today's parlance, his modeling of the public scholar. Cappon's interest in reaching the public about the importance of historical understanding without compromising historical scholarship permeated every aspect of his career. His career serves as a model for librarians, archivists, and others in the information professions seeking to engage with a broader public audience about their professional mission.
Studying at UCL Institute of Archaeology: Past and Present
Authors: Frearson Charlotte , Rando Carolyn
Published: March 2017

Ranked in the top 5 in the UK for archaeology, for the 10th year in a row, in The Guardian University Guide League Tables.

Ranked in the top five for student satisfaction in The Complete University Guide 2017 League Table of UK archaeology departments (published in May 2016).

Twitter: @UCLarchaeology

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UCLArchaeology_

Instagram: ucl_archaeology
‘All Museums Will Become Department Stores’: The Development and Implications of Retailing at Museums and Heritage Sites
Authors: Larkin Jamie
Published: March 2017

Museums and heritage sites have provided merchandise for visitors to purchase since their earliest incarnations as public attractions in the 18th century. Despite this longevity scant academic research has been directed towards such activities. However, retailing – formalised in the emergence of the museum shop – offers insights into a range of issues, from cultural representation and education, to economic sustainability. This paper outlines the historical development of retailing at museums and heritage sites in the UK, before offering a summary of current issues, illustrated by a case study of contemporary retailing at Whitby Abbey. The paper demonstrates how commercial spaces have made, and continue to make, important contributions to visitors’ cultural experiences and aims to frame this topic as a legitimate field of academic enquiry.
Measuring knowledge and practice in relation to breast cancer screening in mothers in Pakistan
Authors: Amin Sharmeen , Yazdani Zafeer Ahmed , Jha Ankush , Sriram Deepika , Merchant Hinozia , Parva Naveen Reddy , Mirzabekian Artur , Pascal Joana Kendra , Sikandar Sehrish , Tan Bryan E Xin , Chen Zhi Tian , Kumar Aakash , Baig Faris , Sheikh Muhammad Baseem , Imtiaz Zia
Published: March 2017

Background: Breast cancer is a major health burden mainly in the developed countries but its rates are also increasing in the developing countries. With such increasing rates of breast cancer it is imperative that the general population is aware of its risk factors, early screening methods and the preventive measures that can be undertaken before its development.Objective: To assess the awareness of breast-self-examination (BSE) & screening among the mothers belonging to different socioeconomic groups in Karachi, Pakistan. To assess the awareness of breast lump & its relation with breast cancer in mothers.Methods: This is a cross sectional research study constituting on a sample size of 284 people. The data was collected using a self administered questionnaire which was designed after detailed literature review. The date was collected from all 5 districts of Karachi, Pakistan. The duration of data collection was from April 2013 to November 2013. The data was analyzed using spss 19 with a 95% confidence interval and a 5% margin of error. A p-value of .05 or less was considered significant.Results: The results showed that most of the women (81%) have sufficient general knowledge about breast cancer and its outcomes but the awareness regarding the risk factors was limited. Only 38% were aware that old age is a risk factor, 34.9% knew that null parity is a risk factor while 57.7% believed that trauma to the breast, for example child hitting the breast, cause breast disease. The women were only partially aware of the screening methods available, only 53.2% of women knew how to self-examine their breast and 69% of them were not aware of the fact that mammography is the basic screening procedure. Results are similar for knowledge about signs and symptoms and only 46.8% were aware that bloody discharge and inward retraction of nipple may be due to breast cancer. Despite the limited current awareness about the breast diseases most women (82.4%) showed interest in learning more information about breast diseases and how might they be prevented.Conclusions: The study concluded that though the mothers were aware of breast cancer they still require sufficient knowledge regarding its risks, methods of screening and means to prevent it. In accordance with this need more initiatives should be undertaken to spread more awareness regarding this through media or other useful sources. But increasing awareness alone cannot deliver the desired results and there is a parallel need to increase the facilities and to make them accessible for all. Steps should also be undertaken to educate the women about their misconceptions regarding breast cancer and to make them free from unnecessary barriers as many women do not seek clinical advice due to these barriers.
Correlation between psychophysiological response and hospital management model for nurses involved in medication errors
Authors: Li Lin-Lin , Yin Yu-Chun , Liu Po-Erh , Ling Chen-Shu , Kuo Cheng-Yu , Kuo Hsien-Wen
Published: March 2017

Because hospitals in Taiwan now place a lot of emphasis on hospital accreditation, leading to a heavy workload for nurses, nurses are unintentional involved in patient medication errors (MEs). In this research, we explore the possible correlation between psychophysiological responses of nursing staff and a hospital management model regarding MEs. We conducted a cross-sectional study design in one hospital in central Taiwan. A total of 345 nurses at Tali Jen-Ai Hospital l were selected. A questionnaire was chosen as the study instrument. The questionnaire asked the following information: basic data, classification of MEs, frequency and severity of psychophysiological responses, and information about the hospital’s management model and support system. We found that the hospital management model had a significant negative correlation with the frequency of physiological symptoms (r = -0.14, p < .01). Likewise, the support system also had a substantial negative correlation with the scores of the physiological symptom, behavioral responses, and psychophysiological responses. Using multiple regression analysis adjusted for work duration, job title, and degree of injury, we found that the support system was significantly correlated with the nurses’ psychophysiological responses. Both the hospital management and the support system decreased the psychophysiological responses of the nurses. Therefore, we recommend that supervisors implement a management strategy to deal specifically with MEs. When nurse managers have frequently empathy and no-blame attitude to replace disrespectful or skeptical ways to nurse with ME, they will empower their enthusiasm and responsibility to improve the reduction of ME.
Urogynecological conditions associated with overactive bladder symptoms in women
Authors: Forde James C. , Davila Jonathan L. , Marks Brian K. , Epstein Matthew , Tsui Johnson F. , Weiss Jeffrey P. , Blaivas Jerry G.
Published: March 2017

Introduction: Overactive bladder symptoms (OAB) affect 9–43% of women and are associated with underlying disorders, including pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The aim of this study is to identify urogynecological conditions associated with OAB symptoms.Methods: This prospective, institutional review board-approved study included women referred to a tertiary centre with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). All women completed the selfadministered OAB questionnaire (OABSS). Those with an OABSS ≥8, the cutoff, were considered to have OAB symptoms. Patients underwent a history and physical examination (including Baden- Walker prolapse grading and stress test), 24-hour voiding diary, pad test (for urinary incontinence), urinalysis, and uroflow with post-void residual volume. Patients were classified clinically into the following: idiopathic OAB, SUI, POP, bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) neurogenic bladder (NGB), recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI), and miscellaneous.Results: In total, 148 women met the inclusion criteria with a mean age of 67 years. Only 27% had no comorbid conditions and were considered idiopathic OAB. Associated urogynecological conditions included SUI in 37%, POP in 26%, miscellaneous conditions in 18%, recurrent UTI in 11%, NGB in 9%, and BOO in 8%. Some patients met criteria for more than one category, thus the total is greater than 100%.Conclusions: In a tertiary care setting, a significant proportion of women with OAB symptoms have underlying conditions that may cause or contribute to their symptoms. Appropriate evaluation is desirable to enhance our understanding of the relationship of these conditions to the diagnosis, treatment, outcomes, and pathophysiology of OAB.
Management of pelvic fracture-associated urethral injuries: A survey of Canadian urologists
Authors: Wong Nathan Colin , Allard Christopher B. , Dason Shawn , Farrugia Patricia , Bhandari Mohit , Davies Timothy O.
Published: March 2017

Introduction: The management of pelvic fracture-associated urethral injuries (PFUI) is not standardized and optimal management is controversial. We surveyed Canadian urologists about their experiences and opinions regarding optimal management of PFUI.Methods: Canadian urologists were surveyed via an anonymous, bilingual, web-based, 12-item questionnaire. A total of 735 Canadian urologists were invited to participate via email distributed by the Canadian Urological Association.Results: Of the 146 urologists who participated (19.9% response rate), the majority practice at a trauma centre (53.2%), but manage only 1‒5 PFUI/year (71.5%). Most participants (82.6%) favour primary realignment compared to suprapubic (SP) tube with delayed repair (15.3%) and immediate reconstruction (2.1%). Compared to SP diversion and delayed repair, the majority of participants believe primary realignment is associated with equivocal incontinence (61.2%) and erectile dysfunction rates (75.8%), but has lower stricture rates (73.0%). Among respondents who perform primary realignment, 45.4% concurrently place a SP tube, while 54.6% do not. While 91% believe SP tubes do not increase the risk of pelvic hardware infections, 31.6% report that orthopedic surgeons alter their management of pelvic fractures in the presence of a SP tube.Conclusions: Most Canadian urologist respondents — even those practicing at trauma centres — manage very few PFUIs/year. There is reasonable consensus among respondents that primary realignment is favourable to delayed or immediate reconstruction, but discordance on whether or not to place concurrent SP tubes. The urological and orthopedic consequences of SP tubes in the management of traumatic urological injuries warrant further investigation.
Denture plaque microbiology in relation to removable denture hygiene methods
Authors: Majchrzak Krzysztof , Szymanek-Majchrzak Ksenia , Mierzwińska-Nastalska Elżbieta , Rolski Dariusz
Published: March 2017

Introduction. Removable dentures, which constitute a reservoir of bacterial and fungal flora, can be an etiological factor responsible for generating local and systemic diseases. Plaque removal by applying mechanical and chemical methods is a basic principle of denture hygiene, it reduces the quantity of microorganisms and can play a role in the qualitative composition of bacterial biofilm.
Aim of the study. To evaluate the impact of different denture hygiene methods on the composition of staphylococcal flora on the surface of denture base.
Materials and methods. The study involved 62 patients of the Department of General and Transplantation Surgery and the Department of Prosthodontics. Each patient had a removable prosthesis. A thorough dental history with special emphasis put on denture hygiene methods was collected, swab from impression side of denture pate was sampled. Strains of the genus Staphylococcus were isolated and identified. Statistical analysis was conducted.
Results. In the group of the examined patients, denture hygiene scheme based on toothbrush and toothpaste was most commonly used (53%). Bacterial strains of the genus Staphylococcus were found in 90% of subjects. The highest percentage of stains, including those with high pathogenicity (S.aureus, S.epidermidis, S.haemolyticus), were isolated in the subjects who used toothbrush and toothpaste and the lowest in those who regularly used mechanical and chemical denture cleaning methods.
Conclusions. From a microbiological point of view, a combination of mechanical and chemical methods in regular denture hygiene, can help reducing the number of Staphylococcal strains. Patients, who receive an organ transplant should pay special attention to denture hygiene as microorganisms present on acrylic plate can pose a threat to their health and even life.
Complete dentures supported on mini implants: A literature review
Authors: Włodarczyk-Górniak Olga , Ślusarski Piotr
Published: March 2017

Introduction. Significant loss of alveolar ridge in edentulism is clinically difficult situation that requires above-standard solutions. Overdenture supported by intraosseous implants can be distinguished among the methods of treatment.
Aim of the study. To analyze the available literaturę on the possibility of using miniscrews to improve the overall stability of the prosthesis.
Methods. The ProQuest database has been analyzed. 26 original articles were qualified for future research.
Results and conclusions. Retention and stability can be largely improved by the use of miniscrews. A simple method of implantation can be used even in cases of significant loss of alveolar bone without augmentation procedures. The authors recommend the use of miniscrews in the elderly when extensive implant surgery cannot be performed. The studies showed improvements in stability, comfort, mastication and speech. An overdenture stabilized on the mini implants is auseful solution in clinically difficult situations.
Effect of method of deduplication on estimation of differential gene expression using RNA-seq
Authors: Klepikova Anna V. , Kasianov Artem S. , Chesnokov Mikhail S. , Lazarevich Natalia L. , Penin Aleksey A. , Logacheva Maria
Published: March 2017

Background

RNA-seq is a useful tool for analysis of gene expression. However, its robustness is greatly affected by a number of artifacts. One of them is the presence of duplicated reads.

Results

To infer the influence of different methods of removal of duplicated reads on estimation of gene expression in cancer genomics, we analyzed paired samples of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and non-tumor liver tissue. Four protocols of data analysis were applied to each sample: processing without deduplication, deduplication using a method implemented in samtools, and deduplication based on one or two molecular indices (MI). We also analyzed the influence of sequencing layout (single read or paired end) and read length. We found that deduplication without MI greatly affects estimated expression values; this effect is the most pronounced for highly expressed genes.

Conclusion

The use of unique molecular identifiers greatly improves accuracy of RNA-seq analysis, especially for highly expressed genes. We developed a set of scripts that enable handling of MI and their incorporation into RNA-seq analysis pipelines. Deduplication without MI affects results of differential gene expression analysis, producing a high proportion of false negative results. The absence of duplicate read removal is biased towards false positives. In those cases where using MI is not possible, we recommend using paired-end sequencing layout.
Plant growth-promoting endophytic bacteria versus pathogenic infections: an example ofBacillus amyloliquefaciensRWL-1 andFusarium oxysporumf. sp.lycopersiciin tomato
Authors: Shahzad Raheem , Khan Abdul Latif , Bilal Saqib , Asaf Sajjad , Lee In-Jung
Published: March 2017

Fungal pathogenic attacks are one of the major threats to the growth and productivity of crop plants. Currently, instead of synthetic fungicides, the use of plant growth-promoting bacterial endophytes has been considered intriguingly eco-friendly in nature. Here, we aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo antagonistic approach by using seed-borne endophyticBacillus amyloliquefaciensRWL-1 against pathogenicFusarium oxysporumf. sp.lycopersici. The results revealed significant suppression of pathogenic fungal growth byBacillus amyloliquefaciensin vitro. Further to this, we inoculated tomato plants with RWL-1 andF. oxysporumf. sp.lycopersiciin the root zone. The results showed that the growth attributes and biomass were significantly enhanced by endophytic-inoculation during disease incidence as compared toF. oxysporumf. sp.lycopersiciinfected plants. Under pathogenic infection, the RWL-1-applied plants showed increased amino acid metabolism of cell wall related (e.g., aspartic acid, glutamic acid, serine (Ser), and proline (Pro)) as compared to diseased plants. In case of endogenous phytohormones, significantly lower amount of jasmonic acid (JA) and higher amount of salicylic acid (SA) contents was recorded in RWL-1-treated diseased plants. The phytohormones regulation in disease incidences might be correlated with the ability of RWL-1 to produce organic acids (e.g., succinic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, and citric acid) during the inoculation and infection of tomato plants. The current findings suggest that RWL-1 inoculation promoted and rescued plant growth by modulating defense hormones and regulating amino acids. This suggests that bacterial endophytes could be used for possible control ofF. oxysporumf. sp.lycopersiciin an eco-friendly way.
Developmental and loco-like effects of a swainsonine-induced inhibition ofα-mannosidase in the honey bee,Apis mellifera
Authors: Wedd Laura , Ashby Regan , Foret Sylvain , Maleszka Ryszard
Published: March 2017

Background

Deficiencies in lysosomal a-mannosidase (LAM) activity in animals, caused either by mutations or by consuming toxic alkaloids, lead to severe phenotypic and behavioural consequences. Yet, epialleles adversely affecting LAM expression exist in the honey bee population suggesting that they might be beneficial in certain contexts and cannot be eliminated by natural selection.

Methods

We have used a combination of enzymology, molecular biology and metabolomics to characterise the catalytic properties of honey bee LAM (AmLAM) and then used an indolizidine alkaloid swainsonine to inhibit its activityin vitroandin vivo.

Results

We show that AmLAM is inhibitedin vitroby swainsonine albeit at slightly higher concentrations than in other animals. Dietary exposure of growing larvae to swainsonine leads to pronounced metabolic changes affecting not only saccharides, but also amino acids, polyols and polyamines. Interestingly, the abundance of two fatty acids implicated in epigenetic regulation is significantly reduced in treated individuals. Additionally, swainsonie causes loco-like symptoms, increased mortality and a subtle decrease in the rate of larval growth resulting in a subsequent developmental delay in pupal metamorphosis.

Discussion

We consider our findings in the context of cellular LAM function, larval development, environmental toxicity and colony-level impacts. The observed developmental heterochrony in swainsonine-treated larvae with lower LAM activity offer a plausible explanation for the existence of epialleles with impaired LAM expression. Individuals carrying such epialleles provide an additional level of epigenetic diversity that could be beneficial for the functioning of a colony whereby more flexibility in timing of adult emergence might be useful for task allocation.
Bullous Pemphigoid Severity and Levels of Antibodies to BP180 and BP230
Authors: Chou Po-Yi , Yu Chia-Ling , Wen Chiao-Ni , Tu Yu-Kang , Chi Ching-Chi
Published: October 2024

Importance

The correlation between serum levels of autoantibodies against bullous pemphigoid (BP) antigens 180 (BP180) and 230 (BP230) with BP disease severity is unclear.

Objective

To investigate the correlation of anti-BP180 and anti-BP230 immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody levels with BP disease severity.

Data Sources

A search was performed of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, and PubMed databases from their respective inception to April 11, 2024.

Study Selection

Studies evaluating the correlation between serum levels of anti-BP180 or anti-BP230 IgG measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and disease severity assessed per the Autoimmune Bullous Skin Disorder Intensity Score (ABSIS) or BP Disease Area Index (BPDAI) were included. No language or geographic restrictions were imposed. Nearly 0.4% of initially identified studies met the selection criteria.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

One researcher extracted data and another researcher confirmed data. The risk of bias was independently assessed by these researchers using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 tool, with discrepancies resolved by discussion with a third researcher. A random-effects model meta-analysis and a subgroup analysis were conducted based on the ELISA kit manufacturers.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Pooled correlation coefficients of antibody levels with ABSIS and BPDAI.

Results

In all, 14 studies with 1226 participants were analyzed. The risk of bias of included studies was generally low. The meta-analysis found anti-BP180 autoantibody levels showed moderate correlation with objective BPDAI (r = 0.56; 95% CI, 0.46-0.64) at baseline, strong correlation (r = 0.63; 95% CI, 0.39-0.79) at 3-month follow-up, and moderate correlation (r = 0.53; 95% CI, 0.25-0.72) at 6-month follow-up. Anti-BP180 autoantibody levels also showed moderate correlation (r = 0.52; 95% CI, 0.39-0.62) with ABSIS at baseline, strong correlation (r = 0.62; 95% CI, 0.39-0.79) at 3-month follow-up, and moderate correlation (r = 0.53; 95% CI, 0.25-0.72) at 6-month follow-up. By contrast, anti-BP230 autoantibody levels showed no association with objective BPDAI and ABSIS at diagnosis and follow-up. The subgroup analysis found similar results when using different ELISA kits.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that anti-BP180 autoantibody levels may serve as an adjunctive tool for monitoring BP disease severity and guiding clinical care for patients with BP.
Eight-Week Supplementation With Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 and Functional Constipation
Authors: Cheng Jing , Gao Carl , Ala-Jaakkola Reeta , Forssten Sofia D. , Saarinen Markku , Hibberd Ashley , Ouwehand Arthur C. , Ibarra Alvin , Li Dingqiang , Nordlund Anders , Wang Yingxin , Shen Xizhong , Peng Haixia , Wan Xinjian , Meng Xiangjun
Published: October 2024

Importance

Probiotic supplementation may improve bowel movements. However, large, properly designed studies are lacking.

Objective

To evaluate the potential benefit of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp lactis HN019 on constipation, expressed as complete spontaneous bowel movements (CSBMs).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized triple-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial with 2 weeks of run-in and 8 weeks of intervention was conducted from December 25, 2020, to February 28, 2022, at 5 hospitals in Shanghai, China. Participants included healthy volunteers with functional constipation according to Rome III criteria, 18 to 70 years of age, and a body mass index (calculated as the weight in kilograms divided by the height in meters squared) of less than 30.0. Eligibility after the run-in phase required the randomized participants to have 3 or fewer CSBMs/wk. Data were analyzed from September 29, 2022, to March 23, 2023, and reported as intention to treat.

Intervention

Participants were randomized to receive probiotic (B lactis HN019, 7.0 × 109 colony forming units (CFU)/d in maltodextrin at the start of the study and 4.69 × 109 CFU/d at the end of the study or maltodextrin placebo once a day for 8 weeks.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary outcome was change in CSBMs. Secondary outcomes included use of rescue medication, stool consistency, degree of straining for each bowel movement, abdominal pain, and bloating. Further, dietary habits and physical activity were recorded. Fecal samples were analyzed for moisture content, short-chain fatty acids, branched-chain fatty acids, microbiota composition, and calprotectin.

Results

Of the 283 individuals assessed for eligibility, 229 were randomized to either the placebo (n = 117) or the HN019 (n = 112) group. One participant in the placebo group discontinued due to COVID-19 restrictions. The 229 participants (194 [84.7% female) had a median age of 45 (38-52) years, mean (SD) BMI of 22.8 (2.5), and a mean (SD) of 0.77 (1.0) CSBM/wk. There was no difference in the change of weekly CSBMs from baseline to the end of study between the HN019 (least-square mean change, 0.80 [95% CI, 0.54-1.05]) and placebo (least-square mean change, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.41-0.90]) groups.

Conclusions and Relevance

Although probiotics have been reported to improve bowel function, this large, well-conducted randomized clinical trial did not confirm such results. Daily consumption of B lactis HN019 at the tested dose of 4.69 × 109 CFU did not outperform placebo to increase CSBMs.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry Identifier: ChiCTR2000029215
The Psychotherapy in MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy
Authors: Cristea Ioana Alina , Cuijpers Pim , Halvorsen Joar Øveraas
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the critical yet overlooked role of the psychotherapy component in assessing the validity of the trials of midomafetamine/3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)–assisted psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder.
Evaluation of a prototype array for daily quality assurance in spot scanning proton therapy
Authors: Flatten Veronika , Devendranath Henry‐Aravinth , Kroh Janik , Witt Matthias , Baumann Kilian‐Simon , Gall Kenneth , Simon Bill , Wulff Jörg , Schoenfeld Andreas A.
Published: October 2024

Background

Quality assurance (QA) on a daily basis is an essential task in radiotherapy. In pencil beam scanning proton therapy (PBS), there is a lack of available practical QA devices for routine daily QA in comparison to conventional radiotherapy.

Purpose

The aim was to characterize and evaluate a prototype for the task of daily QA routine for PBS with parameters recommended by the AAPM TG 224, that is, the dose output constancy, the spot position and the distal range verification. Furthermore, a time efficient calibration method for fast and reliable daily QA routine was established for the prototype.

Methods

First, a calibration routine was designed and evaluated, which characterizes the array response and allows for a conversion of the measured signal to clinically needed QA parameters. Finally, a time and resource efficient daily QA routine was developed and tested.

Results

The prototype array can distinguish spot position deviations with sub‐millimeter accuracy, as well as changes in the spot size in terms of FWHM with a 2 sensitivity. The range and thus the energy can be evaluated at different depths also with sub‐millimeter precision. After some training, the setup of the prototype device took roughly two minutes and the total beamtime was about one minute on cyclotron site and five minutes for synchrotrons.

Conclusions

A prototype for daily QA in spot scanning proton therapy was evaluated, which features a fast and easy setup and allows for measuring relevant beam parameters, typically within less than a minute of beam time. All QA parameters as recommended by the AAPM TG 224 report can be analyzed with sufficient accuracy.
A Scalable Fully Printed Organic Thermoelectric Generator for Harsh Environments Enabled by a Stable n‐type Polymer
Authors: Brunetti Irene , James Pataki Nathan , Hinojosa Diego R. , Hawkey Angus , Karakaya Ozan , Rainer Christian , Khan Muhammad Irfan , Franke Leonard , Mallick Md Mofasser , Hernandez‐Sosa Gerardo , Kemerink Martijn , Caironi Mario , Lemmer Uli
Published: October 2024

Affordable and versatile power sources become crucial as miniaturized electronics and sensors become more widespread. Organic thermoelectric generators (TEGs), capable of tapping into wasted heat sustainably and economically, are viewed as key enablers for powering the sensor networks of the future. Until recently, the performance of n‐type organic thermoelectric materials has severely lagged behind their p‐type counterparts. However, reports of a stable and highly conductive n‐type polymer, poly(benzodifurandione) (PBFDO), are changing this notion. Nonetheless, validation of PBFDO as a suitable ink for scalable fabrication processes and integration of the material into a scalable organic TEG have yet to be demonstrated. This work presents the development, characterization, and optimization of a PBFDO ink for use in a scalable inkjet printing process. The n‐type ink is then integrated into a screen‐printed origami‐inspired architecture, resulting in a 21‐leg PEDOT:PSS/PBFDO organic TEG capable of delivering a record‐high normalized power density among reported polymer‐based TEGs of 0.718 nW cm−2 K−2. Moreover, the module ambient stability is demonstrated for up to 90 d, while its use for potential applications in harsh environments is validated for a temperature range of ‐8 °C to 200 °C and up to 90% relative humidity, a first for organic TEGs.
Integration of Multifunctionality in a Colloidal Self‐Repairing Catalyst for Alkaline Water Electrolysis to Achieve High Activity and Durability
Authors: Kuroda Yoshiyuki , Mizukoshi Daiji , Yadav Vinay , Taniguchi Tatsuya , Sasaki Yuta , Nishiki Yoshinori , Awaludin Zaenal , Kato Akihiro , Mitsushima Shigenori
Published: October 2024

Self‐repairing catalysts are useful for achieving alkaline water electrolyzers with long lifetimes under intermittent operation. However, rational methodologies for designing self‐repairing catalysts have not yet been established. Herein, hybrid cobalt hydroxide nanosheets (Co‐ns), with a high deposition (repairing) rate, and β‐FeOOH nanorods (Fe‐nr), with high oxygen evolution reaction (OER) ability, are electrostatically self‐assembled into composite catalysts. This strategy is developed to integrate multifunctionality in self‐repairing catalysts. Positively charged Co‐ns and negatively charged Fe‐nr form uniform composites when dispersed in an electrolyte. These composites are electrochemically deposited on a nickel electrode by electrolysis at 800 mA cm−2. Co‐ns form a conductive mesoporous assembly of CoOOH nanosheets as a support. Fe‐nr are then distributed on the CoOOH nanosheets as active sites for the OER. Because of the high deposition rate of Co‐ns, the amount of Fe‐nr deposited increases 22 times compared to when Fe‐nr is deposited alone, and the OER current density increases 14 times compared to that of Co‐ns alone. The composite self‐repair catalyst shows the highest activity and durability under an accelerated durability test (ADT), and its degradation rate decreases from 84 μV cycle−1 (Fe‐nr only) to 60 μV cycle−1 (composite catalyst) under ADT conditions without repair.
Predicting herbage biomass on small‐scale farms by combining sward height with different aggregations of weather data
Authors: Scheurer Luca , Leukel Joerg , Zimpel Tobias , Werner Jessica , Perdana‐Decker Sari , Dickhoefer Uta
Published: October 2024

Accurate predictions of herbage biomass are important for efficient grazing management. Small‐scale farms face challenges using remote sensing technologies due to insufficient resources. This limitation hinders their ability to develop machine learning‐based prediction models. An alternative is to adopt less expensive measurement methods and readily available data such as weather data. This study aimed to examine how different temporal aggregations of weather data combined with compressed sward height (CSH) affect the prediction performance. We considered weather features based on different numbers of weather variables, statistical functions, weather events, and periods. Between 2019 and 2021, data were collected from 11 organic dairy farms in Germany. Herbage biomass exhibited high variability (coefficient of variation [CV] = 0.65). Weather data were obtained from on‐farm and nearby public stations. Prediction models were learned on a training set (n = 291) and evaluated on a test set (n = 125). Random forest models performed better than models based on artificial neural networks and support vector regression. Representing weather data by a single feature for leaf wetness reduced the root mean square error (RMSE) by 12.1% (from 536 to 471 kg DM ha−1, where DM is dry matter) and increased the R2 by 0.109 (from 0.518 to 0.627). Adding features based on multiple variables, functions, events, and periods resulted in a further reduction in RMSE by 15.9% (R2 = 0.737). Overall, different aggregations of weather data enhanced the accuracy of CSH‐based models. These aggregations do not cause additional effort for data collection and, therefore, should be integrated into CSH‐based models for small‐scale farms.
Experimental and Computational Insights Into Organotellurium (IV) Complexes as Potent PfNDH2 Inhibitors: Synthesis, Characterization, and Antimalarial Evaluation
Authors: Bhardwaj Anisha , Dubey Amit , Tufail Aisha , Tufail Nasir , Jangra Kamlesh , Garg Sapana
Published: October 2024

The study examines the binding affinities and pharmacological potential of synthesized metal compounds with PfNDH2 in Plasmodium falciparum. So as to identify the combatting agent for malaria, six new organotellurium (IV) complexes (8a–8f) were prepared through a condensation reaction of 3‐methyl‐2‐thiophene carboxaldehyde and p‐nitroaniline. The synthesized compounds were inclusively characterized through physical and spectral techniques signifying a distorted octahedral geometry. The reported complexes were screened for antimalarial and antioxidant activities and analyzed using micro assays and DPPH assays, respectively. Using docking interactions, the research evaluates the binding energies, hydrogen bonds, and steric interactions of various compounds with PfNDH2, aiming to identify promising candidates for antimalarial drug development. Among the compounds, 8f showed the strongest binding affinity, with the lowest binding energy of −135.626 kcal/mol, and diverse hydrogen bonds with the target enzyme. Structure‐based pharmacophore modeling revealed critical interaction profiles and selectivity scores for the compounds, with 8f emerging as a promising candidate. Molecular electrostatic potential (MESP) analysis offered insights into the distribution of electron density within the compounds, influencing their reactivity and potential as antimalarial agents. ADMET analysis highlighted the pharmacokinetic and toxicological profiles of the compounds, revealing critical aspects for optimizing safety and efficacy. Overall, the findings provide valuable information for further development and optimization of potential antimalarial drugs.
Observer‐based control for nonlinear Hadamard fractional‐order systems via SOS approach
Authors: Gassara Hamdi , Naifar Omar , Chaabane Mohamed , Ben Makhlouf Abdellatif , Arfaoui Hassen , Aldandani Mohammed
Published: October 2024

Practical stability refers to the notion that the origin is not an equilibrium point (EP) and that the system states tend to converge toward a sphere centered at the origin. The first goal of this paper is to analyze the concept of “practical stability” in Caputo–Hadamard fractional‐order derivative (CHFOD) systems. Then, using the Lyapunov approach, a polynomial fuzzy (PF) observer‐based controller for stabilizing CHFOD PF systems is created. The observer‐based control is innovative since it was created and proven using the sum‐of‐squares (SOS) method. In conclusion, a numerical illustration is provided to corroborate the theoretical findings.
Improving trans‐cinnamic acid production in a model cyanobacterium
Authors: Hunstiger Darcy , Ma Hayley , Paton Andrew J. , Peebles Christie A. M.
Published: October 2024

trans‐Cinnamic acid (tCA) is a precursor in the synthesis of many high‐value compounds with bio‐active qualities useful in applications like medicine, polymers, and cosmetics. Currently tCA is produced by industrial chemical synthesis from fossil fuels or cost‐prohibitive isolation from terrestrial plants. Cyanobacteria, a type of photosynthetic bacteria, can be readily engineered to convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into metabolites of interest at relatively high amounts compared to terrestrial plants. The purpose of this study is to advance the industrial and commercial value of cyanobacteria as a biological factory for renewable production of tCA. Production of tCA has previously been demonstrated in the model cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 (S. 6803) via expression of non‐native phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) from various organisms. This project focuses on developing and characterizing a new high‐titer strain of S. 6803 expressing a plant PAL gene controlled by an inducible promoter. We assessed production in shake flasks under constant light, a 12 h:12 h light:dark cycle, and environmental photobioreactors (ePBRs) with a sinusoidal, rapidly fluctuating light environment. Our strain demonstrates a four‐fold increase in tCA production to ~500 mg L−1 by 14 days compared to previously reported titers in S. 6803 under shake flask cultivation and a 30–50% improved average tCA production per culture density (60 mg·L−1·OD730−1) in ePBRs over comparable previously reported culture methods. Our study progresses S. 6803 tCA bioproduction into higher culture volumes, up to 500 mL, while further validating the strength of an inducible system for tCA production in S. 6803.
How a collapsing state impacts child safeguarding: Reflecting on the challenges of implementing a hospital‐based child safeguarding program in Lebanon
Authors: Naddour Judith , Bosqui Tania , Issa Sara , El Assi Nour , Majdalani Marianne , Sawaya Rasha , Dirani Leyla Akoury
Published: October 2024

In Lebanon, a country facing multilayered crises and an increase in reported cases of child maltreatment, the availability of a unified and comprehensive child safeguarding protocol in healthcare facilities remains limited. Healthcare providers are frontline in recognizing and detecting child abuse and neglect (CAN) cases in hospital settings. Therefore, the adoption of a child protection system in healthcare settings is much needed. We attempted to establish a program for child safeguarding identification, intervention and monitoring mechanisms in Lebanese teaching hospitals. Despite high levels of need, the establishment of this program faced major challenges in the context of multiple national emergencies. The latter included fragmentation of the child protection system and the collapse of the health sector. This paper aims to share these challenges and extract lessons learned for future implementation of a unified child safeguarding protocol in Lebanese hospitals.
A new simple technique for stabilizing the guidewire position within the left ventricle during transcatheter mitral valve‐in‐valve implantation
Authors: Sivakumar Kothandam , Sagar Pramod , Thejaswi Puthiyedath , Pavithran Sreeja
Published: October 2024

Transcatheter mitral valve‐in‐valve implantation is a preferred treatment for degenerating mitral bioprosthetic valves in high‐risk surgical patients. A balloon‐expandable transcatheter heart valve delivered through a postero‐inferior transseptal puncture is deployed within the prosthesis over a guidewire secured in the left ventricle. Patients with aneurysmal left atrium and altered angulation between the planes of atrial septum and mitral prosthesis have unstable position of the guidewire that flips out of the left ventricle into the left atrium when the valve delivery system is advanced. Instead of a transapical access to snare the guidewire and create a railroad in such instances, we report a new technique of transarterial retrograde snaring of the guidewire in the left ventricle for stabilization.
One‐Step Carbonization Synthesis of N, S Co‐Doped Carbon Materials Derived from Agricultural Waste Peanut Shells for High‐Performance Symmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Cheng Xiaoyang , Zhang Lihua , Li Lingyan , Li Xinran , Wu Hao , Zheng Jinfeng , Yao Jiarong , Li Guifang
Published: October 2024

Biomass carbon has the advantages of wide source, low cost and environmental protection, and has been widely used in the field of electrochemical energy storage. In this work, N and S co‐doped carbon materials were prepared by using peanut shell as carbon source and thiourea as activator. When the peanut shell and activator were 2 g and 4 g, respectively, the prepared NSPC‐4 had the largest specific surface area and special pore structure. Elemental analysis showed that the activator introduced more N, S and O atoms to the carbon material, and more heteroatoms helped to improve the surface structure of the carbon material and provide additional pseudocapacitance. In addition, NSPC‐4 contains a short‐range ordered graphite structure, which can provide excellent electrical conductivity. The electrochemical test results show that NSPC‐4 has the largest specific capacitance. When the mass of the activator is higher than or below 4 g, the electrochemical performance of the carbon material will be reduced. The symmetric supercapacitor (SSC) assembled by NSPC‐4 has an energy density of 8.3 Wh kg−1 when the power density is 350 W kg−1. The synthesis method is not only simple, green and economical, but also has important application value.