bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel synthetic clot analogs for in-vitro stroke modelling
Authors: Guerreiro Helena , Wortmann Nadine , Andersek Thomas , Ngo Tuan N. , Frölich Andreas M. , Krause Dieter , Fiehler Jens , Kyselyova Anna A. , Flottmann Fabian
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The increased demand for training of mechanical thrombectomy in ischemic stroke and development of new recanalization devices urges the creation of new simulation models both for training and device assessment. Clots properties have shown to play a role in procedural planning and thrombectomy device effectiveness. In this study, we analyzed the characteristics and applicability of completely synthetic, animal-free clots in the setting of an in-vitro model of mechanical thrombectomy for training and device assessment.

Methods

Synthetic clots based on agarose (n = 12) and silicone (n = 11) were evaluated in an in-vitro neurointervention simulation of mechanical thrombectomy with clot extraction devices. Calcified clots of mixed nature were simulated with addition of 3D printed structures. 9 clots were excluded due to insufficient vessel occlusion and failure to integrate with clot extraction device. Synthetic thrombi were characterized and compared using a categorical score-system on vessel occlusion, elasticity, fragmentation, adherence and device integration.

Results

Both agarose-based and silicone-based clots demonstrated relevant flow arrest and a good integration with the clot extraction device. Silicone-based clots scored higher on adherence to the vessel wall and elasticity.

Conclusion

Selected synthetic clots can successfully be implemented in an in-vitro training environment of mechanical thrombectomy. The clots’ different properties might serve to mimic fibrin-rich and red blood cell-rich human thrombi.
Arsenic exposure and respiratory outcomes during childhood in the INMA study
Authors: Signes-Pastor Antonio J. , Díaz-Coto Susana , Martinez-Camblor Pablo , Carey Manus , Soler-Blasco Raquel , García-Villarino Miguel , Fernández-Somoano Ana , Julvez Jordi , Carrasco Paula , Lertxundi Aitana , Santa Marina Loreto , Casas Maribel , Meharg Andrew A. , Karagas Margaret R. , Vioque-Lopez Jesús
Published: September 2022

Ingested inorganic arsenic (iAs) is a human carcinogen that is also linked to other adverse health effects, such as respiratory outcomes. Yet, among populations consuming low-arsenic drinking water, the impact of iAs exposure on childhood respiratory health is still uncertain. For a Spanish child study cohort (INfancia y Medio Ambiente—INMA), low-arsenic drinking water is usually available and ingestion of iAs from food is considered the major source of exposure. Here, we explored the association between iAs exposure and children’s respiratory outcomes assessed at 4 and 7 years of age (n= 400). The summation of 4-year-old children’s urinary iAs, monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), and dimethylarsinic acid (DMA) was used as a biomarker of iAs exposure (∑As) (median of 4.92 μg/L). Children’s occurrence of asthma, eczema, sneeze, wheeze, and medication for asthma and wheeze at each assessment time point (i.e., 4- and 7-year) was assessed with maternal interviewer-led questionnaires. Crude and adjusted Poisson regression models using Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) were performed to account for the association between natural logarithm transformed (ln) urinary ∑As in μg/L at 4 years and repeated assessments of respiratory symptoms at 4 and 7 years of age. The covariates included in the models were child sex, maternal smoking status, maternal level of education, sub-cohort, and children’s consumption of vegetables, fruits, and fish/seafood. The GEE—splines function using Poisson regression showed an increased trend of the overall expected counts of respiratory symptoms with high urinary ∑As. The adjusted expected counts (95% confidence intervals) at ln-transformed urinary ∑As 1.57 (average concentration) and 4.00 (99thpercentile concentration) were 0.63 (0.36, 1.10) and 1.33 (0.61, 2.89), respectively. These exploratory findings suggest that even relatively low-iAs exposure levels, relevant to the Spanish and other populations, may relate to an increased number of respiratory symptoms during childhood.
Hyperbaric exposure in rodents with non-invasive imaging assessment of decompression bubbles: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Currens Joshua , Dayton Paul A. , Buzzacott Peter , Papadopoulou Virginie
Published: September 2022

Hyperbaric pressure experiments have provided researchers with valuable insights into the effects of pressure changes, using various species as subjects. Notably, extensive work has been done to observe rodents subjected to hyperbaric pressure, with differing imaging modalities used as an analytical tool. Decompression puts subjects at a greater risk for injury, which often justifies conducting such experiments using animal models. Therefore, it is important to provide a broad view of previously utilized methods for decompression research to describe imaging tools available for researchers to conduct rodent decompression experiments, to prevent duplicate experimentation, and to identify significant gaps in the literature for future researchers. Through a scoping review of published literature, we will provide an overview of decompression bubble information collected from rodent experiments using various non-invasive methods of ultrasound for decompression bubble assessment. This review will adhere to methods outlined by the Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis and be reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Literature will be obtained from the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. Extracted sources will first be sorted to a list for inclusion based on title and abstract. Two independent researchers will then conduct full-text screening to further refine included papers to those relevant to the scope. The final review manuscript will cover methods, data, and findings for each included publication relevant to non-invasive in vivo bubble imaging.
Social predictors of doctoral student mental health and well-being
Authors: Zhang Feng , Litson Kaylee , Feldon David F.
Published: September 2022

Graduate students’ mental health and well-being is a prominent concern across various disciplines. However, early predictors of mental health and well-being in graduate education, specifically doctoral education, have rarely been studied. The present study evaluated both the underlying latent classification of individuals’ mental well-being and predictors of those classifications. Results estimated two latent classes of students’ mental health and well-being: one class with generally high levels of mental well-being and one with lower levels of mental well-being. Regression analyses showed that mentoring in the second year of doctoral study, certainty of choice in the third year, and both academic development and sense of belonging in the fourth year were positive predictors of membership in the higher mental well-being class. In contrast to some prior studies, demographic variables were not related to the identified well-being classifications. Regression analyses further showed that mental well-being was negatively related to participants’ number of publications and research self-efficacy, indicating a problematic relationship between scholarly productivity and confidence and well-being. These findings may be used to identify and provide targeted support for students who are at-risk for having or developing lower levels of mental well-being in their graduate programs.
Mortality in Switzerland in 2021
Authors: Locatelli Isabella , Rousson Valentin
Published: September 2022

Objective

To analyze mortality trends in Switzerland in 2021, the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Using data from the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, we compared mortality in Switzerland in 2021 with that of previous years in terms of standardized weekly deaths, standardized (annual) mortality rates (overall and stratified by age and sex) and life expectancy. The latter is a well-known demographic concept defining the average lifespan of a hypothetical cohort living and dying according to the mortality rates of a given year.

Results

After a favorable first half of the year and a fairly standard second half in terms of mortality in Switzerland, the year 2021 ended with a wave of deaths of moderate intensity related to the 5th wave of COVID-19. Overall, and after a notable increase in mortality in 2020 (+9.2%, 95%CI: +8.0%; +10.3%, compared to 2019, and +5.1%, 95%CI: +4.3%; +6.0%, compared to 2015–19), the pre-pandemic mortality level was approximately recovered in 2021 (+0.8%, 95%CI: -0.3%; +0.8%, compared to 2019, and -2.9%, 95%CI: -3.7%; -2.2%, compared to 2015–19). Life expectancy, after declining by 10 months for men and 6 months for women in 2020 (i.e. men would have lost 10 months and women 6 months had they lived their entire lives with COVID-19 as it was in 2020), returned in 2021 to 2019 levels for women (85.6 years) and regained 2018 levels for men (81.6 years, still -0.3 years from 2019). The age group responsible for the small remaining loss for men was the 50–70 age group, which had similar mortality in 2020 and 2021.

Conclusions

The second year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Switzerland was characterized by an approximate return to pre-pandemic mortality levels, with a faster recovery for women than for men with respect to 2020.
Prenatal stress assessment using heart rate variability and salivary cortisol: A machine learning-based approach
Authors: Cao Rui , Rahmani Amir M. , Lindsay Karen L.
Published: September 2022

Objective

To develop a machine learning algorithm utilizing heart rate variability (HRV) and salivary cortisol to detect the presence of acute stress among pregnant women that may be applied to future clinical research.

Methods

ECG signals and salivary cortisol were analyzed from 29 pregnant women as part of a crossover study involving a standardized acute psychological stress exposure and a control non-stress condition. A filter-based features selection method was used to identify the importance of different features [heart rate (HR), time- and frequency-domain HRV parameters and salivary cortisol] for stress assessment and reduce the computational complexity. Five machine learning algorithms were implemented to assess the presence of stress with and without salivary cortisol values.

Results

On graphical visualization, an obvious difference in heart rate (HR), HRV parameters and cortisol were evident among 17 participants between the two visits, which helped the stress assessment model to distinguish between stress and non-stress exposures with greater accuracy. Eight participants did not display a clear difference in HR and HRV parameters but displayed a large increase in cortisol following stress compared to the non-stress conditions. The remaining four participants did not demonstrate an obvious difference in any feature. Six out of nine features emerged from the feature selection method: cortisol, three time-domain HRV parameters, and two frequency-domain parameters. Cortisol was the strongest contributing feature, increasing the assessment accuracy by 10.3% on average across all five classifiers. The highest assessment accuracy achieved was 92.3%, and the highest average assessment accuracy was 76.5%.

Conclusion

Salivary cortisol contributed a significant increase in accuracy of the assessment model compared to using a range of HRV parameters alone. Our machine learning model demonstrates acceptable accuracy in detection of acute stress among pregnant women when combining salivary cortisol with HR and HRV parameters.
Urine lactate concentration as a non-invasive screener for metabolic abnormalities: Findings in children with autism spectrum disorder and regression
Authors: Boterberg Sofie , Vantroys Elise , De Paepe Boel , Van Coster Rudy , Roeyers Herbert
Published: September 2022

There is increasing evidence that diseases caused by dysfunctional mitochondria (MD) are associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A comprehensive meta-analysis showed that developmental regression was reported in half of the children with ASD and mitochondrial dysfunction which is much higher than in the general population of ASD. The aim of the present exploratory study was to determine lactate concentrations in urine of children with ASD, as a non-invasive large-scale screening method for metabolic abnormalities including mitochondrial dysfunction and its possible association with regression. First, clinical characteristics of MD were examined in 99 children (3–11 years) with ASD. Second, clinical characteristics of MD, severity of ASD and reported regression were compared between children with the 20% lowest lactate concentrations and those with the 20% highest lactate concentrations in urine. Third, clinical characteristics of MD and lactate concentration in urine were compared in children with (n = 37) and without (n = 62) reported regression. An association of urine lactate concentrations with mitochondrial dysfunction and regression could not be demonstrated in our large ASD cohort. However, since ASD children were reported by their parents to show a broad range of phenotypic characteristics of MD (e.g., gastro-intestinal and respiratory impairments), and lactate concentrations in urine are not always increased in individuals with MD, the presence of milder mitochondrial dysfunction cannot be excluded. Development of alternative biomarkers and their implementation in prospective studies following developmental trajectories of infants at elevated likelihood for ASD will be needed in the future to further unravel the association of ASD with mitochondrial dysfunction and eventually improve early detection.
Interpretation discrepancies of abdominal imaging by on-call radiology residents: Evaluation of risk factors
Authors: Yang Su Jeong , Lim Hee Joong , Park So Hyun , Choi Seung Joon , Shim Young Sup
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the rate, important findings, and risk factors related to discrepancies between on-call residents’ and attending radiologists’ interpretations of abdominal examinations. We identified 1132 eligible patients with abdominal radiology findings that were preliminary interpreted by on-call residents between February 2016 and September 2019. The preliminary interpretations were compared with the final interpretations by abdominal attending radiologists, including clinical data. The preliminary interpretations were analyzed by three radiologists in consensus, who categorized the reports according to organs, important findings (i.e., active bleeding, bowel obstruction, organ ischemia or infarction, and organ rupture), clinical outcomes, and discrepancies with respect to final interpretations. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the risk factors for important discrepant findings. Of 1132 patients, the bowel (n = 567, 50.1%) was the most common organ interpreted by on-call residents, followed by gallbladder/bile duct/pancreas (n = 139, 12.3%) and liver (n = 116, 10.2%). Of 1132, 359 patients (31.7%) had disease with 379 important findings: active bleeding (n = 222), organ rupture (n = 77), bowel obstruction (n = 52), bowel ischemia (n = 24), and organ infarction (n = 4). Sixty-four patients (5.6%) showed discrepancies, and 30 (2.6%) showed 32 important discrepant findings comprising 14 active bleeding, 10 bowel obstructions, 6 organ ruptures, and 2 cases of bowel ischemia. Of the 64 discrepant patients, 33 underwent delayed surgery (n = 18, 28.1%) or interventional treatment (n = 15, 23.4%). In multivariable analysis, bowel obstruction (adjusted odds ratio, 2.52; p = 0.049) was an independent risk factor for determining discrepancy between preliminary and final interpretations. The rate of overall and important discrepancies between on-call residents’ and final interpretations was low. However, given that the bowel was the most frequently interpreted organ, bowel obstruction was identified as a risk factor for discrepant interpretations. The identified risk factor and findings may be useful for residents to minimize discrepancies.
Influence of pharmacists and infection control teams or antimicrobial stewardship teams on the safety and efficacy of vancomycin: A Japanese administrative claims database study
Authors: Goto Ryota , Muraki Yuichi , Inose Ryo , Kusama Yoshiki , Ono Akane , Koizumi Ryuji , Ishikane Masahiro , Ohmagari Norio
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has a high mortality and requires effective treatment with anti-MRSA agents such as vancomycin (VCM). Management of the efficacy and safety of VCM has been implemented with the assignment of pharmacists in hospital wards and the establishment of teams related to infectious diseases. However, there are no reports evaluating the association between these factors and the efficacy and safety of VCM in large populations.

Methods

This study used the Japanese administrative claims database accumulated from 2010 to 2019. The population was divided into two groups, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) group and non-TDM group, and adjusted by propensity score matching. We performed multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine the influence of pharmacists and infection control teams or antimicrobial stewardship teams on acute kidney injury (AKI) and 30-day mortality.

Results

The total number of patients was 73 478 (TDM group, n = 55 269; non-TDM group, n = 18 209). After propensity score matching, 18 196 patients were matched in each group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that pharmacological management for each patient contributed to the reduction of AKI (odds ratio [OR]: 0.812, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.723‒0.912) and 30-day mortality (OR: 0.538, 95% CI: 0.503‒0.575). However, the establishment of infectious disease associated team in facilities and the assignment of pharmacists in the hospital wards had no effect on AKI and 30-day mortality. In addition, TDM did not affect the reduction in AKI (OR: 1.061, 95% CI: 0.948‒1.187), but reduced 30-day mortality (OR: 0.873, 95% CI: 0.821‒0.929).

Conclusion

Pharmacologic management for individual patients, rather than assignment systems at facilities, is effective to reduce AKI and 30-day mortality with VCM administration.
A qualitative study of the perceptions and experiences of healthcare providers caring for critically ill patients during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic: A PsyCOVID-ICU substudy
Authors: Ecarnot Fiona , Lombion Sandrine , Pourrez Aurélie , Laurent Alexandra , Fournier Alicia , Lheureux Florent , Loiseau Mélanie , Rigaud Jean-Philippe , Binquet Christine , Meunier-Beillard Nicolas , Quenot Jean-Pierre
Published: September 2022

Background

Intensive care unit (ICU) staff have faced unprecedented levels of stress, in the context of profound upheaval of their working environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We explored the perceptions of frontline ICU staff about the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, and how this experience impacted their personal and professional lives.

Methods

In a qualitative study as part of the PsyCOVID-ICU project, we conducted semi-structured interviews with a random sample of nurses and nurses’ aides from 5 centres participating in the main PsyCOVID study. Interviews were recorded and fully transcribed, and analysed by thematic analysis.

Results

A total of 18 interviews were performed from 13 August to 6 October 2020; 13 were nurses, and 5 were nurses’ aides. Thematic analysis revealed three major themes, namely: (1) Managing the home life; (2) Conditions in the workplace; and (3) the meaning of their profession.

Conclusion

In this qualitative study investigating the experiences and perceptions of healthcare workers caring for critically ill patients during the first COVID-19 wave in France, the participants reported that the crisis had profound repercussions on both their personal and professional lives. The main factors affecting the participants were a fear of contamination, and the re-organisation of working conditions, against a background of a media “infodemic”.
Knowledge, attitude and practice towards complementary and alternative medicine and associated factors among health care professionals in public health facilities of Hadiya Zone, South Ethiopia
Authors: Erchafo Belay , Abute Lonsako , Tedesse Tegegn , Sedoro Tagesse , Mecha Aregash
Published: September 2022

Background

Even if modern medicine is becoming more widely available, a considerable portion of the world’s population continues to rely on complementary and alternative medicine. Complementary and alternative medicine is used by 80% of the population in developing countries for their health care. The study was conducted to assess Knowledge, Attitude and practice towards complementary and alternative medicine and associated factors among health care professionals in public health facilities of Hadiya Zone, South Ethiopia.

Methods

The study was conducted in Hadiya Zone from October 10 to October 30, 2019. A facility-based cross-sectional study design was employed using simple random sampling methods. Three hundred sixty six health care professionals were selected using a simple random sample method. The data were collected using a standardized self-administered and pre-tested questionnaire that was adapted from different literatures. We used descriptive statistics, as well as bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. An association was determined using P-values less than 0.05 and 95 percent confidence intervals. The results of the study were presented using texts and tables.

Results

Three hundred and fifty-five respondents were interviewed, with a 97 percent respondent rate. Two hundred thirty-two (65.4%) of the study participants have good knowledge towards complementary and alternative medicine, 216 (60.8%) have a favorable attitude toward complementary and alternative medicine, and 182 (51.3%) have utilized it in the previous two years. Some of the factors associated with knowledge, attitude, and practice towards complementary and alternative medicine were health care professionals who have contact with patients who seek complementary and alternative medicine [AOR = 1.89(95% CI; 1.18, 3.03), female health care professionals [AOR = 2.43(95% CI; 2.68, 9.74), and more than six years work experience [AOR = 1.68(95% CI; 1.04, 2.71).

Conclusion

The knowledge, attitude, and practice of complementary and alternative medicine among health care professionals were low. Creating communication lines with patients and facilitating the integration of complementary and alternative medicine with modern medicine.
Mutation screening of the CYP1B1 gene reveals thirteen novel disease-causing variants in consanguineous Pakistani families causing primary congenital glaucoma
Authors: Tehreem Raeesa , Arooj Anam , Siddiqui Sorath Noorani , Naz Shagufta , Afshan Kiran , Firasat Sabika
Published: September 2022

Background

Primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) is a heterogeneous rare recessively inherited disorder prevalent in regions with high consanguinity. Disease phenotype is associated with increased intra ocular pressure and is a major cause of childhood blindness. Sequence variations in Cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1) gene are a major cause of PCG. Current study was conducted to screen CYP1B1 gene in highly consanguineous PCG affected families from Pakistani population consistent with the autosomal recessive pattern of PCG inheritance.

Methods

For this study, patients and controls (clinically unaffected individuals of each family) from 25 consanguineous families belonging to Punjab, Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan were recruited through ophthalmologists. DNA was isolated from collected blood samples. Genetic screening of CYP1B1 gene was done for all enrolled families. In-silico analysis was performed to identify and predict the potential disease-causing variations.

Results

Pathogenicity screening revealed sequence variants segregating with disease phenotype in homozygous or compound heterozygous form in eleven out of 25 analyzed families. We identified a total of sixteen disease causing variants among which five frameshift i.e., c.629dup (p.Gly211Argfs*13), c.287dup (p.Leu97Alafs*127), c.662dup (p.Arg222Profs*2), c.758_759insA (p.Val254Glyfs*73) and c.789dup (p.Leu264Alafs*63), two silent c.1314G>A, c.771T>G and six missense variations c.457C>G (p.Arg153Gly), c.516C>A (p.Ser172Arg), c.722T>A (p.Val241Glu), c.740T>A (p.Leu247Gln), c.1263T>A (p.Phe421Leu), and c.724G>C (p.Asp242His) are previously un reported. However two frameshift c.868dup (p.Arg290Profs*37), c.247del (p.Asp83Thrfs*12) and one missense variant c.732G>A (p.Met244Ile), is previously reported. Furthermore, six polymorphisms c.1347T>C, c.2244_2245insT, c.355G>T, c.1294G>C, c.1358A>G and c.142C>G were also identified. In the intronic region, a novel silent polymorphism i.e., g.35710_35711insT was found in homozygous state. All the newly detected disease-causing variants were negative in 96 ethnically matched controls.

Conclusion

Among twenty-five screened families, eight families (PCG50, 52–54, 58, 59, 63 and 67) were segregating disease causing variants in recessive manner. Two families (PCG049 and PCG062) had compound heterozygosity. Our data confirms genetic heterogeneity of PCG in Pakistani population however we did not find molecular variants segregating with PCG in fifteen families in coding exons and intron-exon boundaries of CYP1B1 gene. Genetic counseling was provided to families to refrain from practicing consanguinity and perform premarital screening as a PCG control measure in upcoming generations.
Association between inflammatory biomarkers and cognitive aging
Authors: Fang Yuan , Doyle Margaret F. , Chen Jiachen , Alosco Michael L. , Mez Jesse , Satizabal Claudia L. , Qiu Wei Qiao , Murabito Joanne M. , Lunetta Kathryn L.
Published: September 2022

Inflammatory cytokines and chemokines related to the innate and adaptive immune system have been linked to neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease, dementia, and cognitive disorders. We examined the association of 11 plasma proteins (CD14, CD163, CD5L, CD56, CD40L, CXCL16, SDF1, DPP4, SGP130, sRAGE, and MPO) related to immune and inflammatory responses with measures of cognitive function, brain MRI and dementia risk. We identified Framingham Heart Study Offspring participants who underwent neuropsychological testing (n = 2358) or brain MRI (n = 2100) within five years of the seventh examination where a blood sample for quantifying the protein biomarkers was obtained; and who were followed for 10 years for incident all-cause dementia (n = 1616). We investigated the association of inflammatory biomarkers with neuropsychological test performance and brain MRI volumes using linear mixed effect models accounting for family relationships. We further used Cox proportional hazards models to examine the association with incident dementia. False discovery rate p-values were used to account for multiple testing. Participants included in the neuropsychological test and MRI samples were on average 61 years old and 54% female. Participants from the incident dementia sample (average 68 years old at baseline) included 124 participants with incident dementia. In addition to CD14, which has an established association, we found significant associations between higher levels of CD40L and myeloperoxidase (MPO) with executive dysfunction. Higher CD5L levels were significantly associated with smaller total brain volumes (TCBV), whereas higher levels of sRAGE were associated with larger TCBV. Associations persisted after adjustment forAPOEε4 carrier status and additional cardiovascular risk factors. None of the studied inflammatory biomarkers were significantly associated with risk of incident all-cause dementia. Higher circulating levels of soluble CD40L and MPO, markers of immune cell activation, were associated with poorer performance on neuropsychological tests, while higher CD5L, a key regulator of inflammation, was associated with smaller total brain volumes. Higher circulating soluble RAGE, a decoy receptor for the proinflammatory RAGE/AGE pathway, was associated with larger total brain volume. If confirmed in other studies, this data indicates the involvement of an activated immune system in abnormal brain aging.
The career paths of researchers in long-term employment on short-term contracts: Case study from a UK university
Authors: Menard Cecile B. , Shinton Sara
Published: September 2022

The career stage between PhD and lectureship, conventionally called “postdoctoral”, has traditionally been seen as transitional. However, with an estimated one third of university researchers in the United Kingdom having been employed on temporary contracts for more than 10 years, the transitional nature of this career stage is questionable. Despite so many research staff being in long-term employment on short-term contracts, the lack of visibility of this population, which does not have a legitimate place within the current academic career structure, means that we do not know how deliberate or accidental their career choices are. Based on semi-structured interviews with long-term researchers (LTRS) at one university in the United Kingdom, this is the first study to investigate the personal and professional circumstances behind the career path of long-term researchers on temporary contracts. Three categories of LTRS were identified: 1) the candidate, who wants to follow the traditional academic career pathway and to secure a lectureship 2) the accidental long-term researcher, who did not or could not plan their career path 3) the career researcher, who sustains a research-only career despite the precarity of such positions. Most participants had belonged successively to two categories. Some obstacles to career progression transcended the categories: inequal access to opportunities for developing one’s teaching portfolio, poor or lack of managerial support, the perceived prestige or lack thereof of one’s field, and bullying and discrimination. We argue that short-termism and lack of visibility play down considerably the contribution of long-term researchers to the financial and academic success of research institutions. We also argue that traditional–but still in place–structures in academia are ill adapted to the contemporary demographics and practices of the research community; we recommend that future studies involve HE sector stakeholders to review and to reform the academic career structure.
Transcriptome analysis of Homo sapiens and Mus musculus reveals mechanisms of CD8+ T cell exhaustion caused by different factors
Authors: Zhang Lin , Nishi Hafumi
Published: September 2022

T cell exhaustion is a state of T cell dysfunction during chronic infection and cancer. Antibody-targeting immune checkpoint inhibitors to reverse T cell exhaustion is a promising approach for cancer immunotherapy. However, molecular mechanisms of T cell exhaustion remain incompletely understood. Here, we performed a transcriptome analysis by integrating seven exhaustion datasets caused by multiple diseases in both humans and mice. In this study, an overlap of 21 upregulated and 37 downregulated genes was identified in human and mouse exhausted CD8+ T cells. These genes were significantly enriched in exhaustion response-related pathways, such as signal transduction, immune system processes, and regulation of cytokine production. Gene expression network analysis revealed that the well-documented exhaustion genes were defined as hub genes in upregulated genes. In addition, a weighted gene co-expression analysis identified 175 overlapping genes that were significantly correlated with the exhaustion trait in both humans and mice. This study found that overlapping six genes were significantly upregulated and highly related to T cell exhaustion. Finally, we revealed that CD200R1 and ADGRG1, less described previously in exhaustion, contributed to T cell exhaustion. Overall, our findings reveal the mechanisms of T cell exhaustion and provide an important reference to the immunology community.
Improving lifestyle behaviours among women in Kisantu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo: A protocol of a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Sagastume Diana , Sibongwere Deogratias Katsuva , Kidima Olivier , Kembo Diertho Mputu , N’keto José Mavuna , Dimbelolo Jean-Claude , Nkakirande Dorothée Bulemfu , Kabundi Jean Clovis Kalobu , Peñalvo José L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

As the prevalence of obesity among women of reproductive age is increasing in sub-Saharan Africa, the burden of lifestyle-related conditions is expected to rise quickly. This study aims to develop and evaluate a multi-component health promotion programme for a healthy lifestyle to ultimately prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes among adult women in Kisantu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Methods and analysis

This study is a cluster randomised controlled trial whereby two groups of three healthcare centres each, matched by population size coverage and geographical area, will be randomised to an intervention or a comparison group. Adult women of reproductive age (18–49 years), non-pregnant or first-trimester pregnant, will be recruited from the healthcare centres. 144 women in the intervention centres will follow a 24-month multi-component health promotion programme based on educational and motivational strategies whereas the comparison centres (144 participants) will be limited to a basic educational strategy. The programme will be delivered by trained peer educators and entails individualised education sessions, education and physical activity group activities, and focus groups. Topics of an optimal diet, physical activity, weight management and awareness of type 2 and gestational diabetes will be covered. The primary outcome is the adherence to a healthy lifestyle measured by a validated closed-ended questionnaire and secondary outcomes include anthropometric measurements, clinical parameters, diet diversity and the level of physical activity. Participants from both groups will be assessed at baseline and every 6 months by trained health professionals from the recruiting healthcare centres. Data will be summarised by measures of central tendency for continuous outcomes, and frequency distribution and percentages for categorical data. The primary and secondary outcomes will be quantified using statistical mixed models.

Ethics

This research was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp in Belgium (IRB/RR/AC/137) and the Ethical Committee of the University of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (ESP/CE/130/2021). Any substantial change to the study protocol must be approved by all the bodies that have approved the initial protocol, before being implemented. Also, this journal will be informed regarding any protocol modification. Written informed consent will be required and obtained for all participants. No participant may be enrolled on the study until written informed consent has been obtained.

Trial registration number

NCT05039307.
The inclusion membrane protein IncS is critical for initiation of the Chlamydia intracellular developmental cycle
Authors: Cortina María Eugenia , Bishop R. Clayton , DeVasure Brittany A. , Coppens Isabelle , Derré Isabelle
Published: September 2022

All Chlamydia species are obligate intracellular bacteria that undergo a unique biphasic developmental cycle strictly in the lumen of a membrane bound compartment, the inclusion. Chlamydia specific Type III secreted effectors, known as inclusion membrane proteins (Inc), are embedded into the inclusion membrane. Progression through the developmental cycle, in particular early events of conversion from infectious (EB) to replicative (RB) bacteria, is important for intracellular replication, but poorly understood. Here, we identified the inclusion membrane protein IncS as a critical factor for Chlamydia development. We show that a C. trachomatis conditional mutant is impaired in transition from EB to RB in human cells, and C. muridarum mutant bacteria fail to develop in a mouse model of Chlamydia infection. Thus, IncS represents a promising target for therapeutic intervention of the leading cause of sexually transmitted infections of bacterial origin.
Estimating glomerular filtration rate via cystatin C in preterm infants: a comparative analysis
Authors: Coskun Yesim , Demirel Ozlem Unay , Bayram Tevfik , Akman Ipek , Hacihamdioglu Duygu Ovunç
Published: September 2022

Background: We aimed to determine the course of serum creatinine (sCr), serum cystatin C (sCysC) and urine cystatin C (uCysC) levels and calculate estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) by using sCr- and sCysC-based formulas in preterm infants in the first 28 days of life.

Methods: A total of 52 neonates were included in this prospective study. According to gestational age (GA), the neonates were divided into three groups. Group 1 composed of neonates who were born â‰¤28 weeks (n=15), group 2 and 3 consisted of infants who were born 29-31 weeks (n=16) and 32-34 weeks (n=21), respectively. Blood and urine samples were obtained at the 24-48 hours of life and then weekly until 28th day of life. sCr- and sCysC-based formulas were applied to determine the value and course of eGFR.

Results: sCr level was negatively correlated with GA (r=-0.36, p=0.014) but not with BW (r=-0.15, p=0.31). While sCr levels showed significant variations in all study groups on day 7, day 14, and day 21 however, sCysC did not differ by GA at any time-points. All study groups had significantly different uCysC levels, except day 28. eGFR results calculated with sCr-based formula were detected to be closer to inulin.

Conclusion: In preterm infants, sCr seemed to be a more reliable marker than sCysC to calculate eGFR. Moreover, in the same population, uCysC levels may reflect renal maturation more than sCysC.
Antimicrobial activity of homemade WHO ethanol-based hand rub solution in pediatric department, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital
Authors: Putri Nina Dwi , Satari Hindra Irawan , Karyanti Mulya Rahma , Prayitno Ari , Wicaksana Pratama , Karuniawati Anis , Lestari Delly Chipta , Salma Nabila Maudy , Aprianti Shindy Claudya , Almira Amalia , Khafiyani Andi Annisa Rusyda
Published: September 2022

Background Hand hygiene is essential in reducing healthcare-associated infections. Alcohol-based hand rub solutions have been reported to have superior antimicrobial efficacy on both bacteria and lipophilic viruses compared to washing with hand soap. In low- and middle-income countries, the cost of infection control poses a challenge. Our hospital produced an ethanol-based hand rub based on a WHO formulation to reduce the infection prevention costs.

Objectives To identify the antimicrobial activity of a WHO ethanol-based hand rub solution against bacterial contamination on the hands of healthcare workers at the Department of Child Health, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital.

Methods This cross-sectional study was performed on the hands of healthcare workers (physicians and nurses) working in the Department of Child Health, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital, Jakarta. A total of 225 specimens from 75 subjects were obtained by collecting swabs on both hands before and after participants worked in the Department of Child Health, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital. Bacterial culture tests were performed to identify gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Bacteria were grouped into no-growth/Bacillus sp, Enterobacteriaceae, cocci, and non-fermenter groups.

Results The use of our WHO ethanol-based hand rub solution, generally resulted in a statistically significant decrease in bacterial growth from 84 to 54.6%, before compared to after the hand rub was performed. In more detail, there was a 72.7% decrease in Enterobacteriaceae, a 71.4% decrease in non-fermenters, an 8.6% decrease in cocci and a 44.1% increase in the number of specimens showing no growth bacteria/Bacillus sp.

Conclusion Our WHO ethanol-based hand rub has significant antimicrobial activity for common nosocomial pathogens (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, P. aeruginosa, and K. pneumoniae).
Pengetahuan, Sikap, dan Perilaku Bidan Terkait Deteksi Dini dan Tata laksana Gagal Tumbuh pada Bayi Air Susu Ibu Eksklusif
Authors: Aylicia Aylicia , Wijaya Ellen
Published: September 2022

Latar belakang. Gagal tumbuh (growth faltering) ditandai dengan perlambatan laju pertumbuhan karena ketidakseimbangan antara asupan energi dengan kebutuhan biologis untuk pertumbuhan. Bidan merupakan salah satu tenaga kesehatan lini pertama untuk menemukan kejadian gagal tumbuh sejak dini.Tujuan. Mengetahui pengaruh pengayaan materi terhadap pengetahuan, sikap, dan perilaku bidan dalam deteksi dini dan tata laksana gagal tumbuh pada bayi.Metode. Duapuluh pertanyaan berupa kuesioner diuji validitas dan reliabilitas . Kuesioner yang valid dibagikan kepada bidan yang bekerja di puskesmas wilayah Samarinda dalam studi eksperimental crossover selama bulan Juni-Oktober 2021 sebelum dan sesudah pengayaan materi. Pengetahuan dinilai melalui kuesioner, sedangkan sikap dan perilaku dinilai melalui pencatatan penimbangan dan keterangan dalam data buku kohort bayi yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi, yaitu bayi cukup bulan, berat badan lahir normal, diberikan asi eksklusif, dan usia kronologis kurang dari enam bulan. Data dianalisis dengan SPSS 22.Hasil. Terdapat 13 dari 20 pertanyaan kuesioner yang memenuhi nilai r >0,3783. Terdapat 18 bidan dibagi dalam dua kelompok. Terdapat peningkatan rerata nilai kuesioner sebesar 3,22±1,72 (IK95% 1,90-4,54) dan 2,89±1,05 (IK 95% 2,08-3,70). Keduanya menunjukkan peningkatan bermakna pada uji T berpasangan setelah dilakukan intervensi pengayaan materi. Pada hasil ketepatan tata laksana yang dinilai dari 543 data bayi yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi, diperoleh perbedaan bermakna antara kelompok A dan B pada pengambilan data kedua (sebelum crossover) dengan p=0,002. Terdapat 77/138 (55,8%) bayi dengan gagal tumbuh yang berhasil mengalami peningkatan berat badan signifikan setelah penelitian selesai dilakukan. Namun, 36/138 (26,1%) bayi tetap memiliki status gagal tumbuh sampai penelitian selesai.Kesimpulan. Pengetahuan, sikap, dan perilaku bidan berpengaruh terhadap deteksi dini dan tata laksana gagal tumbuh pada bayi ASI eksklusif. Pentingnya materi pengayaan terkait gagal tumbuh yang berfokus pada upaya tata laksana serta penanganan kendala yang ditemukan dalam praktik sehari-hari untuk menurunkan angka kejadian bayi dengan gagal tumbuh.
De Novo Diagnosis of Lymphocytic Colitis After SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination
Authors: Lee Preston , Wei Mike T. , Gubatan John , Forgó Erna , Berry Gerald J. , Verma Rahul , Friedland Shai
Published: September 2022

SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines are safe and effective for most patients. Gastrointestinal complications reported after vaccination have included gastroparesis and inflammatory bowel disease flares. In this study, we present a unique case of lymphocytic colitis that occurred in a healthy middle-aged man after Moderna SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination. This reveals an unexpected complication of a mRNA vaccine that presented as worsening diarrhea after vaccination in a dose-dependent pattern. Caregivers should be aware of lymphocytic colitis as a possible complication of the Moderna vaccine and monitor those patients closely for symptom resolution.
Fabrication of copper incorporated graphene oxide nanocomposites used for electrochemical determination of methyl parathion contaminants
Authors: Deepa V. , Kavitha B. , Aejitha S. , Aswathaman H. , Thanikaikarasan S. , Senthil Kumar N.
Published: September 2022

lectrochemical studies of methyl parathion on novel nanocomposites electrode surface systems reached distinction in recent years because of their application in trace determination. Cyclic voltammetric behaviours of methyl parathion on nanocomposites modified glassy carbon electrodes at different pH in aqueous ethanol media were carried out. Influence of pH led to the selection of pH 1.0 as the best pH for the electroanalysis of methyl parathion. Voltamogram of pesticide exhibits two cathodic and one anodic peak responding at all pH media with the novel modified electrode system. The modified electrode shows one redox couple around the potential range from 0.1 to 0.3 V and one reduction peak around at - 0.75 V with higher peak current responding to the modified electrode. The reduction peaks were selected for stripping analysis owing to their maximum current response. The experimental parameters were optimized using the differential pulse stripping mode. A calibration plot was made. The determination limit and standard deviations were arrived. The applicability of the method was also verified in a sample soil analysis.
Exploring Long-Term Impacts of Self-Regulated Learning Interventions in K-12 Contexts: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cousins Erin , Bol Linda , Luo Tian
Published: September 2022

While research illustrates the benefits of interventions designed to improve self-regulated learning (SRL) and academic achievement, far fewer studies have examined the durability of these effects. This review synthesizes research on the lasting effects of 17 comprehensive SRL interventions on variables related to metacognition, cognition, motivation, and achievement in K-12 populations. Results reveal common patterns of design, domain-specificity, intervention complexity, and style of measurement instrument. Intervention effects tend to be durable regarding achievement and SRL but were mixed when presented across multiple measures of SRL. Overall findings imply that SRL interventions can lead to enduring effects on achievement and better achievement outcomes than content-strategy instruction alone and can be implemented successfully in a variety of contexts and subjects.
Resistensi Pembangunan dan Lahan di Indonesia Demi Terwujudnya Keadilan dan Kesejahteraan Bagi Seluruh Rakyat Indonesia
Authors: Handoko Rais Firdaus
Published: September 2022

Hukum adalah pedoman untuk bersikap dan bertingkah laku.Dibentuknya hukum bertujuan untuk menciptakan kedamaian dalam kehidupan (di dalam kedamaian terdapat kesejahteraan, ketertiban, dan keadilan) masyarakat. Untuk membentuk hukum, diwajibkan menggali nilai-nilai dan norma-norma di dalam masyarakat. Jika hal tersebut dapat tercapai maka tercapailah yang disebut hukum responsif, yaitu hukum yang sesuai dengan keinginan dan substansi dalam masyarakat, sehingga hukum diciptakan untuk manusia, bukan manusia diciptakan untuk tunduk terhadap hukum. Pembentukan hukum seringkali belum berjalan seperti yang diharapkan (das sollen), karena pembentukan hukum sering dipengaruhi oleh kepentingan politik suatu kaum masyarakat.Hukumdan politik bagaikan dua sisi mata uang logam, yang mana mempunyai wajah (fisik) yang berbeda, tetapi tidak dapat dipisahkan.Dari adanya politik suatu kaum masyarakat membuat hukum tidak untuk kepentingan bersama, maka terkadang timbul aturan yang tidak pro-rakyat. Pembangunan tidak seluruhnya bersifat negatif, tetapi pembangunan yang tidak ada pembatasan, tidak akan memunculkan keadilan dalam masyarakat. Pada dasarnya manusia memiliki karakter homo homini lupus (manusia serigala untuk manusia lainnya) sehingga tidak seluruh pembangunan ditujukan untuk kemakmuran bersama, terlebih juga suatu pembangunan pasti memiliki tujuan (kepentingan). Kepentingan-kepentingan kelompok suatu kaum masyarakat memunculkan kelompok masyarakat yang kuat dan lemah.Kelompok masyarakat kuat muncul pula yang pro-rakyat dan tidak pro-rakyat. Kelompok kuat cenderung memiliki akses terhadap aparatus negara, sehingga pemilik modal yang neo-liberal tampil sebagai kekuatan sosial dominan, sehingga perlu di resistensi agar menimbulkan kepastian, evaluasi (kemanfaatan), dan keadilan.Kata kunci: Resistensi, Das Sollen, Pembangunan.