bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Numerical Approach for Differential-Difference Equations having Layer Behaviour with Small or Large Delay using Non-Polynomial Spline
Authors: Lalu M , Phaneendra K. , Emineni Siva Prasad 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
A numerical approach is suggested for the layer behaviour differential-difference equations with small and large delays in the differentiated term. Using the non-polynomial spline, the numerical scheme is derived. The discretization equation is constructed using the first order derivative continuity at non-polynomial spline internal mesh points. A fitting parameter is introduced into the scheme with the help of the singular perturbation theory to minimize the error in the solution. The maximum errors in the solution are tabulated to verify the competence of the numerical method relative to the other methods in literature. We also focused on the impact of large delays on the layer behaviour or oscillatory behaviour of solutions using a special mesh with and without fitting parameter in the proposed scheme. Graphs show the effect of the fitting parameter on the solution layer.
The Deceleration of Radio/Light Transmission; A Collision Mechanism Dependent Radio Signal Emission, Transmission, and Reception
Authors: Zhang Jing 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The fast and slow fading of radio signal transmissions or laser beam itself and its spare light confirm the presence of two kinds of collisions --- electron-photon and photon-photon collision. Photon transmissions of radio signals are either in consecutive dense photon groups in slow fading process or widespread group pattern in fast fading form. The photon transmission shapes are irregular and dynamical changes. The radio frequency shift and the wavelength reduction by the calculation demonstrate decelerations of radio/light transmission speeds due to the gradual reduced distance between two consecutive photon groups along the transmission pathway. Photons from radio signals are able to affect electron movements in radio signal receiving process and electrons able to kick photons into space during radio signal emission. The pattern of free electron movement under the influence of local electromagnetic force in antenna is consistent with the randomly dynamic changes of radio signal in space. The fast fading is due to the collision of consecutive photon groups of signals in slow fading with free photons in space. The mathematical equation for the relationship between light/radio transmission speeds before and after photons collisions is established. The equation is confirmed by the calculations of well-known difference of light transmission speeds in different media. The gravities from Earth and Sun play little role during light/radio transmission.
Ceftolozane/tazobactam versus colistin in the treatment of ventilator-associated pneumonia due to extensively drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa: a comparative cohort study
Authors: Mogyoródi Bence , Csékó András , Hermann Csaba , Gál János , Iványi Zsolt 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background

Resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa are common pathogens in the intensive care unit (ICU), limiting available therapeutic options. We aimed to compare ceftolozane/tazobactam (C/T) with colistimethate sodium (CMS) in the treatment of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) due to extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Methods

A retrospective, observational study was performed at a tertiary care ICU. Clinical and microbiological success rate, 28-day all-cause mortality, and adverse events were compared in patients who received C/T with those treated with systemic CMS.
Results

A total of 51 patients were included (18 in the C/T and 33 in the CMS group). Clinical success rates in the C/T and CMS groups were 13 (72.2 %) and 10 (30.3 %), respectively. On multivariate regression analysis, treatment with C/T was independently associated with clinical success (odds ratio 4.47, 95% CI = 1.17–17.08). There was no difference in 28-day all-cause mortality (27.8 % and 33.3 % in the C/T and CMS group, p = 0.76). Acute kidney injury was more common in patients who received CMS (48.5 % vs 11.1 %, p = 0.01).
Conclusions

Ceftolozane/tazobactam proved to be efficient in the treatment of XDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa VAP and showed a better safety profile compared to CMS.
Understanding low-value care and associated de-implementation processes: A qualitative study of Choosing Wisely Interventions across Canadian hospitals
Authors: Parker Gillian , Kastner Monika , Born Karen , Shahid Nida , Berta Whitney 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background:Choosing Wisely (CW) is an international movement comprised of national campaigns in more than 20 countries to reduce low-value care (LVC). Hospitals and healthcare providers are examining existing practices and putting interventions in place to reduce practices that offer little to no benefit to patients or may cause them harm. De-implementation, the reduction or removal of a healthcare practice is an emerging field of research. Little is known about the factors which (i) sustain LVC; and (ii) the magnitude of the problem of LVC. In addition, little is known about the processes of de-implementation, and if and how these processes differ from implementation endeavours. The objective of this study was to explicate the myriad factors which impact the processes and outcomes of de-implementation initiatives that are designed to address national Choosing Wisely campaign recommendations.Methods:Semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals implementing Choosing Wisely Canada recommendations in healthcare settings in four provinces. The interview guide was developed using concepts from the literature and the Implementation Process Model (IPM) as a framework. All interviews were conducted virtually, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.Findings:Seventeen Choosing Wisely team members were interviewed. Participants identified numerous provider factors, most notably habit, which sustain LVC. Contrary to reporting in recent studies, the majority of LVC in the sample was not ‘patient facing’; therefore, patients were not a significant driver for the LVC, nor a barrier to reducing it. Participants detailed aspects of the magnitude of the problems of LVC, specifically the impact of harm and resources. Unique factors influencing the processes of de-implementation reported were: influence of Choosing Wisely campaigns, availability of data, lack of targets and hard-coded interventions. Conclusions: This study explicates factors ranging from those which impact the maintenance of LVC to factors that impact the success of de-implementation interventions intended to reduce them. The findings draw attention to the significance of unintentional factors, highlight the importance of understanding the impact of harm and resources to reduce LVC and illuminate the overstated impact of patients in de-implementation literature. These findings illustrate the complexities of de-implementation.
The Armey Curve Hypothesis-based Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) Hypothesis Testing Across the US States with Government Spending
Authors: Işık Cem , Ongan Serdar , Bulut Umit , Karakaya Sahir , Irfan Muhammad , Alvarado Rafael , Ahmad Munir , Rehman Abdul 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
This study re-tests the EKC hypothesis for US states with a new methodology that differs from all previous empirical studies using traditional EKC models. To this aim, this methodology, for the first time, unifies two seemingly different but strongly interrelated hypotheses (models), namely the Armey curve (AC) and traditional EKC models, into one single composite model. The rationale for creating this composite model is twofold. First, the functional propositions of these two hypotheses are depicted with inverted U-shaped curves. Second, they also have economically interrelated-causal relationships. This means that rising government spending (through the AC hypothesis) increases real GDP per capita (RGDPPC) and, consequently, increases in RGDPPC (through the EKC hypothesis) increase CO2 emissions. The composite model created may also allow US state policymakers to determine a single maximum spending level that will maximize or minimize CO2 emissions. Empirical findings indicate that the composite model is capable of testing the EKC hypothesis for 7 US states. Additionally, for 7 US states, maximum spending level was calculated to be around 15% of their RGDPPCs. Hence, with this calculated spending level, policymakers of these states may be able to determine-adjust their golden spending levels so as not to cause environmental degradation and declines in GDP.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of EASYDO ACTIVATOR Irrigation Technique in Intracanal Smear Layer and Debris Removal from Mature Permanent Teeth
Authors: Zhang Shao-Hui , Gao Zheng-Rong , Aimee Dusenge Marie , Feng Yao , Hu Jing , Zhao Jie , Zhao Ya-Qiong , Chen Yun , Liu Qiong , Ye Qin , Zhou Ying-Hui , Tan Li , Guo Yue , Feng Yun-Zhi 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
EASYDO ACTIVATOR (EA) is a continuously vibrational device for root canals irrigation, but its cleaning effectiveness has not been evaluated by any published reports. We were aiming to evaluate whether EA results in a greater intracanal smear layer and debris removal than conventional needle irrigation (NI) and passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI). Twenty-seven single-rooted teeth were used. Canals were sized to R30 and irrigated with 3% sodium hypochlorite. Species were divided into three groups: Group 1: NI; Group 2: PUI; Group 3: EA. Canal walls were subjected to scanning electron microscopy. NI- and PUI-group canal cleanliness decreased from the coronal to apical direction (P < 0.05), except for EA group in the apical third. PUI removed more smear layer from the coronal and middle thirds than EA and NI (P < 0.05). PUI and EA were superior to NI regarding debris removal (P < 0.05). The smear layer and debris from the coronal and middle thirds were effectively removed with EA and PUI. More effective removal occurred from the apical third for EA compared with PUI (P < 0.05). Both methods removed smear layer and debris better than NI, providing a theoretical basis for the clinical application of EA.
Levels of persistent organochlorine and polychlorinated biphenyls in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) from three cage aquaculture farms on the Volta Basin of Ghana: Implications for human health
Authors: Magna Emmanuel Kaboja , Koranteng Samuel Senyo , Donkor Augustine , Gordon Christopher 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Increased agrochemical based agricultural activities along the Volta Basin and aquacultural practices from the cage farms have raised concerns about the potential ecological risk to the aquatic ecosystem. To assess this, caged tilapia samples were analysed for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticide (OCP).Fish samples in acetone/hexane (2:1v/v) solvent medium were sonicated on ultrasonic bath, shaken electronically, cleaned by solid-phase extraction and analysed by GC/ECD for OCPs and GC/MS for PCBs.The levels of OCPs reported in the fish ranged; ND – 2.310 µg/kg (fish farm A), <LOD – 4.260 µg/kg (fish farm B), <LOD – 6.109 µg/kg (fish farm C) and ND – 0.878µg/kg (control). The highest concentration of 6.109 µg/kg was encountered for δ-HCH in the muscles of Tilapia from fish farm C, whiles p,p'-DDE recorded the lowest in farm A. The levels of the OCPs detected in the cage tilapia were below the MRL proposed by the EU. Six PCBs congeners; PCB 18, PCB 28, PCB 52, PCB 101, PCB153 and PCB 180 were detected in the cage tilapia. The concentrations of the indicator congeners ranged from 0.288 ng/g to 0.931 ng/g dw, 0.042 ng/g to 1.321 ng/g dw, 0.260 ng/g to 10.657 ng/g, and ND-0.298ng/g dw in fish farm A, B, C and control respectively. The highest mean concentrations of PCB 153 (8.524 ± 1.5960ng/g) was found in farm Estimation of the EDIs and HQs for the pesticides do not present potential health risk to the consumers of the cage tilapia fish from the studied farms.
Anti-Leishmania activity of mucosal-associated invariant T-cells
Authors: Peruhype-Magalhaes Vanessa , Moreira Marcela , Pascoal-Xavier Marcelo Antônio , Lopes-Ribeiro Ágata , Fernandes Luana Borges , Pereira Victória Hellena , Pediongco Troi , Araújo Márcio da Silva , Teixeira-Carvalho Andréa , de Carvalho Andrea Lucchesi , Mourão Maria Vitória Assumpção , Campos Flávia , Borges Marineide , Carneiro Mariângela , Chen Zhenjun , Saunders Eleanor , McConville Malcolm , Tsuji Moriya , McCluskey James , Martins-Filho Olindo , Eckle Sidonia , Coelho-dos-Reis Jordana Grazziela 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT)-cells are restricted by MR1 and are known to contribute to protection from bacterial and viral infections. Here we show that MAIT-cells also play an important role in protection from visceral leishmaniasis-VL, caused by protozoan parasites of the Leishmania donovani complex. In response to L. infantum, human peripheral blood MAIT-cells produced TNF and IFN-γ and this was MR1-dependent. Since Leishmania spp. lack riboflavin biosynthesis, this suggests that novel MAIT-cell antigen(s) exist in the context of Leishmania-infection. In asymptomatic individuals, MAIT-cells also produced IL-17A, dependent on MR1, a cytokine signature associated with resistance to visceral Leishmaniasis. In mice, MAIT-cells reduced parasite burden during peak infection and decreased pathology. In summary, these results broaden our understanding of MAIT-cell immunity to include protection from parasitic infections with implications for MAIT-cell based therapeutics and vaccines. Leishmania is an ancient and clinically important pathogen such that it may have contributed to shaping MAIT-cell biology.
Minimizing Sample Bias Due to Stigmatized Behaviours: the Representativeness of Participants in a Cohort Study of Alcohol in Pregnancy
Authors: Tappin David , Mackay Daniel , Reynolds Lucy , Fitzgerald Niamh 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundStigmatized behaviours are often underreported, especially in pregnancy, making them challenging to address. The Alcohol and Child Development Study (ACDS) seeks to inform prevention of foetal alcohol harm, by examining links between a maternal blood biomarker and later child developmental outcomes. In order to minimize sampling bias, samples were given by pregnant women, using passive, generic consent. This paper examines the success of this approach, by comparing characteristics of women who provided samples to those who did not.MethodsAll pregnant women in the study city were sent a Patient Information Sheet (PIS) with their first NHS obstetric appointment letter. The PIS informed them that the NHS would like to take an extra blood sample for research purposes, unless they opted out. Neither the women nor the midwives were informed that the samples might be tested for an alcohol biomarker. This paper examines the extent to which women who provided the extra sample were representative of eligible women where no sample was provided, in terms of routinely collected information: age; body mass index; area based deprivation; previous pregnancies, abortions and caesarians; smoking status and carbon monoxide level; self-reported alcohol use, gestation and birth weight of their baby. Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare groups. Results3,436 (85%) of the 4,049 pregnant women who attended their appointment provided the extra sample. Women who did not were significantly younger (p<0.001), less materially deprived (p<0.001), and less likely to be considered for intervention based on self-reported alcohol use (p<0.001). There were no significant differences between the two groups on other routine data.ConclusionsThe use of passive consent without disclosure of the specific research focus resulted in a high level of sample provision in this cohort study of alcohol use in pregnancy. There was no evidence that study blinding was breached, and women who provided a sample were more likely to report alcohol consumption. It is therefore likely that passive consent reduced sampling bias compared to asking women to give blood for an alcohol study, even if anonymity was assured in both cases.
Comparative Evaluation of Postoperative Pain and Periapical Healing After Root Canal Treatment Using Three Different Base Endodontic Sealers – A Randomized Control Clinical Trial
Authors: Khandelwal Akshay , Jose Jerry , Palanivelu Ajitha , Teja Kavalipurapu Venkata 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Backgroundː Endodontic Sealers come in direct contact with periapical tissue through the apical foramen and lateral canals, influencing the postoperative pain and periapical healing. The aim of the present study was to evaluate and compare postoperative pain and periapical healing after root canal treatment using different base endodontic sealers.Methodsː Primary root canal treatment was initiated in 63 patients diagnosed with necrotic pulp and apical periodontitis, followed by which the endodontic sealers used for obturation were selected based on the random allocation of the participants to the following groups; Tubli-Seal, AH Plus and BioRoot RCS. Postoperative pain was recorded by using 100 mm visual analog scale at 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 7 d after obturation. Digital periapical radiographic evaluation was done to assess rate of periapical healing at baseline, 1, 3 and 6 months. Statistical analysis was done using Kruskal Wallis test and one-way ANOVA and p-value of less than 0.05 was considered as significance level.Resultsː Significant reduction was seen in the size of periapical lesions in all the study groups at 3 and 6 months (p ˂ 0.05). The mean difference in the size of periapical lesions for BioRoot RCS was 4.05, 10.22, for AH Plus was 2 3.86, 9.80 and Tubli-Seal were 6.27, 13.41 at 3 months and 6 months respectively. The mean pain scores at 24 h for Tubli-Seal, AH Plus, BioRoot RCS were 17.94 ± 11.35, 11.57 ± 11.18 and 4.73 ± 7.72. At 48 h were 5.26 ± 9.04, 1.57 ± 3.74 and 1.57 ± 3.74 respectively. The mean pain score at 72 h for Tubli-Seal was 2.63 ± 7.33 whereas none of the patients had reported pain in AH Plus and BioRoot RCS group. None of the patients had pain 7 d after treatment.Conclusionsː BioRoot RCS showed less postoperative pain compared to AH Plus and Tubli-Seal. BioRoot RCS showed better periapical healing compared to AH Plus and Tubliseal at 3- and 6-months interval respectively.Trial Registration: Registration of this trial was done prospectively in Clinical trials registry – India (CTRI) with registration number (CTRI/2018/10/015919) dated 08/10/2018.
Assessing the Efficacy of Chinese Herbal Medicine for Dialysis-related Myofascial Pain in the Fistula Arm: Study Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Trial
Authors: Hsu Yung-Tang , Ng Hwee-Yeong , Lee Yan-Yuh , Huang Yu-Chuen , Tsai Ming-Yen 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundDialysis-related myofascial pain in hemodialysis (HD) patients is an important issue that is associated with many other psychosomatic problems. Effective interventions are required to alleviate pain in this group. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) may be a potential therapeutic treatment to reduce pain. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of a CHM formula intervention on pain intensity, daily function, quality of life, and safety among patients receiving HD in a dialysis center within a southern Taiwan context. MethodsThis will be a randomized, open label, cross-over trial with two parallel groups in a pre- and post-test study. Forty patients with myofascial pain related to their arteriovenous fistula in the arm during regular HD sessions will be recruited. Participants will receive 4 weeks of treatment with Juan Bi Tang (JBT) and 4 weeks of no treatment in a random order, separated by a washout period of 2 weeks. Treatment doses (3 g JBT) will be consumed thrice daily. The primary outcome measure will be the Kidney Disease Quality of Life 36-Item Short-Form Survey. Secondary outcomes will include the Fugl-Meyer Assessment–arm, Visual Analogue Scale of pain, and grip strength. Outcomes will be collected before and after each intervention, for a total of four times per participant. The safety evaluation will focus on adverse events. DiscussionThis study will be the first to use CHM to treat patients receiving HD with dialysis-related myofascial pain in their fistula arm and to perform a complete assessment of the treatment, including records of quality of life, arm function and muscle power, severity of pain, and safety. The results of the study will provide convincing evidence on the use of JBT as an adjuvant treatment for dialysis-related myofascial pain. TRIAL REGISTRATION:Clinicaltrials.gov registry (NCT04417101) registered 30 May 2020.
Should Bangladesh be Integrated with Trans-Pacific Partnership? A Dynamic Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Hossain Md. Shaddam , Kundu Nobin Khor , Sultana Habiba 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
In this research endeavor, we have tried to assess the dynamic relationships between Bangladesh's trade balances with the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) countries as well as whether Bangladesh could be benefitted if it has shown its intention to integrate with the TPP agreement. Hence, the tariff rate exporter per product is used as a proxy for economic integration variable along with conventional trade balance model. From the time span of 2005 to 2020, the simulated trade model tested for Bangladesh's merchandise trade with its TPP trading partner countries (with or without the USA). A dynamic balanced panel data analysis has used to capture the Unrestricted Error Correction Mechanism (UECM) and Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimator. The model has tested under two different scenarios (with or without integration), and a robustness check of the model has confirmed the validation of the specification. The study has shown that cointegration exists; stable long-run relationships from any short-run deviation and short-run dynamics has also shown convergence. Therefore, empirical results have indicated that, without integrating both scenarios the value of coefficient of proxy for economic integration variable in both cases is 0.21 and statistically significant as well as Bangladesh's trade balance is relatively better off without integration than integration with the TPP agreement. Thus, this study has suggested that Bangladesh should be maintained bilateral trade relationship instead of not joining the TPP mega-regional FTA (i.e., TPP without the USA).
The Effects of Stromal Vascular Fraction（SVF）Cells and Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs) in Full-Thickness Skin Grafts
Authors: Feng Zhou , Miaomiao Fei , Lunli Gong , Guobao Wang , Jun Zhang , Xiaohai Zhu , Haiyan Cui 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: To investigate the role and difference of autologous stromal vascular fraction（SVF）cells and allogeneic adipose-derived stem cells(ADSCs) in full-thickness skin graft.Methods: SVF cells and ADSCs were prepared from the inguinal fat pad of the rats, and full-thickness skin on the back of the rats were transplanted in situ. then, SVF, ADSCs and PBS were injected under the graft. Gross survival, H-E staining, Masson staining, CD31 and VEGF immunofluorescence were observed on 3d, 7d and 14d respectively.Results: the survival rate of SVF group was the best, followed by ADSCs group (p<0.05). the H-E and Masson staining structures of the SVF group were better than those of the other two groups under the microscope. CD31 and VEGF expression in SVF group at 7 days and 14 days after surgery was more obvious than that in ADSCs group and PBS group.Conclusion: Subcutaneous injection of autologous SVF or allogeneic ADSCs cells can improve the survival rate of full-thickness skin grafts. In addition, the effect of autologous SVF cells is better than that of allogeneic ADSCs.