bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vers une hybridation idéologique au sein de l’armée turque ?
Authors: Kaya Sümbül
Published: October 2022

L’article porte sur les changements idéologiques en cours au sein de l’armée turque, en analysant le rôle central joué dans ce processus par les réformes organisationnelles post-2016. La mise en conformité idéologique des armées avec le gouvernement de l’AKP se traduit notamment par une institutionnalisation graduelle de l’islam au sein des Forces Armées. Nous soulignons ainsi les changements dans le quotidien des forces armées : prières, takbir, fin de certaines discriminations, place nouvelle accordée à la piété. Pour autant, cette place nouvelle de l’islam au sein de l’armée ne signifie pas une rupture totale avec l’héritage nationaliste kémaliste, qui perdure notamment dans les formations. Cette institutionnalisation, si elle est le fruit d’une pratique autoritaire du pouvoir, doit également se comprendre comme la déconstruction d’une armée jugée trop kémaliste, au profit d’une convergence vers les valeurs et les pratiques religieuses de la majorité.
Une aide alimentaire apolitique ? Formes de (dé)politisation ordinaire au sein d’épiceries sociales en France et en Belgique
Authors: Beurois Tom
Published: October 2022

À partir d’une démarche ethnographique menée dans deux épiceries sociales et solidaires implantées en quartier populaire à Molenbeek en Belgique et à Saint-Pierre-des-Corps en France, cet article cherche à analyser les formes de (dé)politisation qui s’y déploient. Ces deux associations proposent une aide sous la forme d’un magasin où des produits alimentaires sont vendus à faible coût. Ces dispositifs reposent sur le travail de salarié·es, de personnes « mises à l’emploi » dans le cadre de contrats « d’insertion » et celui de bénévoles, dont certain·es sont ou ont été catégorisé·es comme « bénéficiaires » par ces associations. Dans un premier temps, l’article montre que les espaces informels constituent des lieux de politisation des échanges et cherche à analyser les ressorts de ce processus. Les personnes rencontrées évoquent des enjeux liés à l’alimentation et à la consommation, aux rapports quotidiens avec les administrations et aux discriminations. La façon dont la mise en place de l’aide alimentaire peut aussi engager des principes ordinaires de justice chez les personnes chargées de la mettre en œuvre est ensuite analysée.
La reconfiguration des rapports de pouvoir épistémique au cœur des processus d’apprentissage de la démocratie communicative
Authors: Roy Alex
Published: October 2022

Dans une perspective interactionniste, cet article analyse la reconfiguration des rapports de pouvoir épistémique qui s’exerce dans la méthodologie du « croisement des savoirs » du mouvement de lutte contre la pauvreté ATD Quart Monde. Cette méthodologie favorise un double processus d’apprentissage de la démocratie communicative – l’ empowerment des personnes en situation de pauvreté, le disempowerment des fonctionnaires – débouchant sur un empowerment collectif.
Optimal shape for a rectangular warehouse with a lateral receive/ship dock
Authors: Di Luozzo Sebastiano , Schiraldi Massimiliano Maria
Published: October 2022

Purpose: This technical note provides the mathematical demonstration for obtaining the optimal aspect ratio for a rectangular storage area with a lateral receive/ship dock, representing the standard configuration of modern distribution centers and logistic warehouses. The proposed aspect ratio is the one that minimizes the travel times of operators, keeping the common assumption of a storage area having a uniform access probability.Design/methodology/approach: To obtain the optimal aspect ratio of the storage area we model the entry point of the uniformly distributed dock with a random variable with a continuous uniform distribution, and we consequently evaluate the average travel path of the operator as a function of the latter. Successively, we estimate and minimize the average roundtrip length of the operator, leading to the optimal aspect ratio of the storage area.Findings: We find that the optimal aspect ratio between the warehouse width (U) and length (V) equals 1.5. The obtained result shows that the operators’ travel times are minimized with a storage area where .Research limitations/implications: Warehouses with a dock on one side now represent modern distribution centers' standard configuration. However, no optimal aspect ratio for the storage area has been discussed. For this reason, the paper fills this lack of scientific literature in the warehouse optimization research field by providing indications on how to design this class of warehouses.Practical implications: Distribution managers may find here guidance for defining a proper design of logistics centers and evaluating the operators' actual travel times to perform a roundtrip within the storage area.Originality/value: Traditional warehouse shape optimization models assume a single input/output point to the storage area. To our knowledge, no formal demonstration has been proposed for a warehouse with a dock on one entire side.
Contrast allergies for neurological imaging: When to proceed
Authors: Fusco Anna , Pucci Logan , Pierre Kevin , Wolberg Adam , Small Coulter , Cerillo John , Siyanaki Mohammad Reza Hosseini , Lucke-Wold Brandon
Published: October 2022

Contrast-enhanced neuroimaging is often necessary for the diagnosis and care of patients with diseases of the central nervous system. Although contrast is generally well tolerated and allergy to contrast is rare, allergic reactions can be severe and life threatening. Therefore, physicians should take care to prevent severe contrast allergy. In this review, we will discuss contrast allergy as well as potential strategies to reduce the risk of severe reactions in patients who require neuroimaging techniques with contrast. First, we discuss the clinical presentation and pathogenesis of contrast allergy and the risk factors associated with reactions. We then review methods to reduce the risk of future contrast reactions through improved patient education and documentation strategies, use of alternate imaging modalities or contrast media, premedication, and desensitization.
On existence results of Volterra-type integral equations via $ C^* $-algebra-valued $ F $-contractions
Authors: Shagari Mohammed Shehu , Alotaibi Trad , Mohamed OM Kalthum S. K. , Mustafa Arafa O. , Bakery Awad A.
Published: October 2022

It is a fact that $ C^* $-algebra-valued metric space is more general and hence the results in this space are proper improvements of their corresponding ideas in standard metric spaces. With this motivation, this paper focuses on introducing the concepts of $ C^* $-algebra-valued $ F $-contractions and $ C^* $-algebra-valued $ F $-Suzuki contractions and then investigates novel criteria for the existence of fixed points for such mappings. It is observed that the notions examined herein harmonize and refine a number of existing fixed point results in the related literature. A few of these special cases are highlighted and analyzed as some consequences of our main ideas. Nontrivial comparative illustrations are constructed to support the hypotheses and indicate the preeminence of the obtained key concepts. From application viewpoints, one of our results is applied to discuss new conditions for solving a Volterra-type integral equation.
Temporal dynamics for areal unit-based co-occurrence COVID-19 trajectories
Authors: Owusu Gabriel , Yu Han , Huang Hong
Published: October 2022

The dynamic mechanism of the COVID-19 pandemic has been studied for disease prevention and health protection through areal unit-based log-linear Poisson processes to understand the outbreak of the virus with confirmed daily empirical cases. The predictor of the evolution is structured as a function of a short-term dependence and a long-term trend to identify the pattern of exponential growth in the main epicenters of the virus. The study provides insight into the possible pandemic path of each areal unit and a guide to drive policymaking on preventive measures that can be applied or relaxed to mitigate the spread of the virus. It is significant that knowing the trend of the virus is very helpful for institutions and organizations in terms of instituting resources and measures to help provide a safe working environment and support for all workers/staff/students.
(In)visible agents in regional development: Active individuals and their networks as a driver of regional product labelling initiatives
Authors: Fialová Magdalena , Chromý Pavel
Published: October 2022

Support for regional production along with its certification and labelling can be understood more broadly as regional development initiatives. Accordingly, the declared objectives of many certification schemes include environmental, economic, social, and cultural aspects. However, to bring benefits for the region, a certification scheme must be used efficiently. Key actor interviews combined with an assessment of the activities of thirty Czech certification schemes, all members of the Association of Regional Brands, helped us identify positive and negative factors affecting the initiatives’ success and potential for enhancing regional development. In line with current institutional approaches to regional development, the engagement and creativity of actors as well as creating networks, which help them overcome various constraints, were found to be essential.
How to Communicate SDG 12 in Social Media
Authors: Cuesta-Valiño Pedro , Penelas-Leguía Azucena , Durán-Álamo Patricia
Published: October 2022

Over recent years, companies have developed multiple corporate social responsibility (CSR) actions with the aim of being more economically, socially, and environmentally responsible with their surroundings. In this context, many of these strategies are linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) set out in the framework of Agenda 2030. As far as SDG 12 is concerned, the role of supermarkets in its achievement is evident, due to the fact that it is closely related to food, food waste, and healthy diets. Taking this into account, the objective of this research is to find out how Spanish supermarket chains are communicating their CSR strategies based on SDG 12 through their social networks. A survey of 300 people has been carried out to understand the level of importance that the Spanish population gives to supermarkets complying with and communicating their commitment to SDG 12. Thanks to the results of this research, companies will be able to carry out specific communication and social marketing strategies through social networks with which they will enhance their brand image and reputation.
Can Employee Wellbeing and Resilience Contribute to Organizational Sustainability After COVID-19?
Authors: Yastıoğlu Seher , Erhan Tugba , Uzunbacak Hasan Hüseyin
Published: October 2022

The current chapter focuses on the scope of employee happiness and resilience which will be examined in detail, and the importance of happiness and resilience for organizational sustainability in the post-COVID-19 pandemic period are discussed through research and reports. Then recommendations are provided based on the results of scientific studies to protect and increase employee happiness and resilience. This chapter aims at revealing the importance of wellbeing and resilience in the workplace highlighting the aftereffects of COVID-19 in the organizational ecosystem.
Suberinic Acid Isolation from Birch Outer Bark and their Characterization
Authors: Godina Daniela , Makars Raimonds , Abolins Arnis , Paze Aigars , Kirpluks Mikelis , Rizhikovs Janis
Published: October 2022

Global sustainability challenges prompt the world to modify their strategies and shift from a fossil-fuel-based economy to a bio-resources-based one and to the production of renewable biomass-based chemicals. Different processes exist that allow the transformation of raw biomass into desirable bio-based products and/or energy. Depolymerized suberinic acids (SA) can be considered as an alternative resource to different feedstocks for value-added product obtaining, for example to develop bio-polyols that can be further used in polymeric material production. Birch outer bark was used as a raw material for obtaining SA and was extracted with ethanol to remove extractives. Further extracted birch outer bark was depolymerized with potassium hydroxide ethanol/methanol/n-butanol/2-propanol solutions. Obtained SA suspension was dried by performing lyophilization or by drying at 100 °C. As a result, we obtained 8 SA samples, which were characterized using chemical (total phenolics content, solubility in DMSO, acid number, hydroxyl number, and saponification number) and instrumental analytical methods (GC-MS, SEC-RID, FTIR). The most suitable SA for obtaining value-added product, such as bio-polyol, were obtained by using ethanol as a solvent for depolymerization process. The corresponding SA had the best results in terms of dry matter content, yield, solubility in DMSO, epoxy groups, acid number and ash content. After GC-MS results it was concluded that the amount of diacids, hydroxyacids and extractives are dependent of the used alkanol for SA depolymerization as well as the drying method.
Cellulose Modification with Maleic Anhydride
Authors: Fridrihsone Velta , Zoldners Juris , Skute Marite , Andze Laura , Filipova Inese
Published: October 2022

Cellulose modification is a challenge due to molecules characteristics – equatorial conformation, hydrogen bonds both withing molecule and among neighboring molecules etc. Esterification of cellulose hydroxyl groups (-OH) with dicarboxylic compounds is challenging. In presented study simple modification with maleic anhydride is performed in an anhydrous environment. Scanning electron microscopy reveals clean fibers of cellulose-maleic anhydride derivatives. FTIR proves unique peak at 1735cm-1 that corresponds to ester carbonyl groups. Titration of carboxylic (-COOH) groups solidifies that one part of anhydride has bonded with cellulose and other carboxylic groups is accessible for further development.
Preparation of Inorganic Foam Glass-Ceramic with Utilization of Waste Diatomite as a Raw Material
Authors: Nguyen Martin , Sedlačík Martin , Sokolař Radomír , Opravil Tomáš
Published: October 2022

The focus of this research paper is the preparation of inorganic foam glass-ceramic with the utilization of waste diatomite as a raw material. The waste diatomite was first comprehensively characterized by the analysis of the chemical and mineralogical composition, particle size, thermal analyses, and microstructure by scanning electron microscopy. Followed by the pretreatment of the mixtures with the addition of a foaming agent which was sodium hydroxide. The mixtures were then formed by pressing them into pellets and fired by a powder sintering method. The pretreatment drying temperatures and firing temperatures of the prepared mixtures were evaluated. After firing, the resulting properties of the foam glass-ceramic were investigated with the utilization of an X-ray diffraction analysis, bulk density, and compressive strength. The possibility of utilization of waste diatomite in raw material mixtures for the preparation of inorganic foam glass-ceramic was investigated.
TO DETERMINE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DYSLIPIDEMIA AND MEIBOMIAN GLAND DYSFUNCTION
Authors: Ranjan Priya , Jha Alka
Published: October 2022

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is the leading cause of dry eye disease and loss of ocular surface homeostasis. Increasingly, several observational clinical studies suggest that dyslipidemia (elevated blood cholesterol, triglyceride or lipoprotein levels) can initiate the development of MGD. However, conclusive evidence is lacking, and an experimental approach using a suitable model is necessary to interrogate the relationship between dyslipidemia and MGD. This original article discusses current knowledge on the associations between dyslipidemia and MGD. We briefly introduce a diet-induced obesity model where mice develop dyslipidemia, which can serve as a potential tool for investigating the effects of dyslipidemia on the meibomian gland. Finally, the utility of lipidomics to examine the link between dyslipidemia and MGD is considered.
Identification of risk genes in Chinese nonobstructive azoospermia patients based on whole-exome sequencing
Authors: Liu Yu-Jun , Zhuang Xin-Jie , An Jian-Ting , Jiang Hui , Li Rong , Qiao Jie , Yan Li-Ying , Zhi Xu
Published: October 2022

Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a severe condition in infertile men, and increasing numbers of causative genes have been identified during the last few decades. Although certain causative genes can explain the presence of NOA in some patients, a proportion of NOA patients remain to be addressed. This study aimed to investigate potential high-risk genes associated with spermatogenesis in idiopathic NOA patients by whole-exome sequencing. Whole-exome sequencing was performed in 46 male patients diagnosed with NOA. First, screening was performed for 119 genes known to be related to male infertility. Next, further screening was performed to determine potential high-risk causative genes for NOA by comparisons with 68 healthy male controls. Finally, risk genes with high/specific expression in the testes were selected and their expression fluctuations during spermatogenesis were graphed. The frequency of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene pathogenic variant carriers was higher in the NOA patients compared with the healthy controls. Potential risk genes that may be causes of NOA were identified, including seven genes that were highly/specifically expressed in the testes. Four risk genes previously reported to be involved in spermatogenesis (MutS homolog 5 [MSH5], cilia- and flagella-associated protein 54 [CFAP54], MAP7 domain containing 3 [MAP7D3], and coiled-coil domain containing 33 [CCDC33]) and three novel risk genes (coiled-coil domain containing 168 [CCDC168], chromosome 16 open reading frame 96 [C16orf96], and serine protease 48 [PRSS48]) were identified to be highly or specifically expressed in the testes and significantly different in the 46 NOA patients compared with 68 healthy controls. This study on clinical NOA patients provides further evidence for the four previously reported risk genes. The present findings pave the way for further functional investigations and provide candidate risk genes for genetic diagnosis of NOA.
Effect of Room Temperature and Refrigerated Storage on Automated Complete Blood Count
Authors: Jaya Anu , Kakkar Naveen , John MJoseph
Published: October 2022

Objective:

Delay in complete blood count (CBC) analysis is likely in laboratories with very high workload or when the samples are collected off site for testing in centralized laboratories. This research was done to study the stability of blood cell parameters in automated CBC at the room temperature (20°C–24°C) storage after 24 h and refrigerated (2°C–8°C) storage after 24 and 48 h.

Materials and Methods:

Automated CBC was done initially on 500 randomly selected blood samples in a 3-part hematology analyzer. Of these, 250 samples were stored at the room temperature (20°C–24°C), and the rest were refrigerated at 2°C–8°C. Re-analysis after 24 h was done for both groups. Data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient, ANOVA, and repeated-measure ANOVA.

Results:

Refrigerated samples stored at 2°C–8°C showed good stability for all hematological parameters (P > 0.5), except for mean platelet volume (MPV) in comparison with those at the room temperature storage. MPV showed a statistically significant (P < 0.001) rise on refrigerated storage. In the room temperature storage group, hematocrit (Hct), mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, red cell distribution width, MPV, and granulocyte percentage showed significant difference compared to the initial values. In the extended 48 h refrigerated storage group, all CBC parameters except Hct showed acceptable stability.

Conclusion:

The storage of blood samples at the room temperature and on refrigeration (2°C–8°C) for 24 h has shown acceptable stability of most of the automated CBC parameters. Refrigeration retained the true values over the room temperature storage and should be recommended if a delay in testing is expected.
Determinants of interpregnancy intervals among women in rural communities in Delta State, Southern Nigeria
Authors: Ahuru Rolle Remi , Omon Iseghohi Judith , Efegbere Henry Akpojubaro
Published: October 2022

Aim:

To guarantee safe motherhood, women are advised to adequately space their deliveries. The World Health Organization advocated for a birth interval between 3 and 5 years, yet closed birth spacing continues to be a problem in Nigeria, resulting in poor infant, child, and maternal health. This study explored the determinants of three classes of birth interval (too short, adequate, and too long) among 534 women drawn from three rural communities in Delta State, Southern Nigeria.

Methods:

The study is an analytical cross-sectional household survey which used a pretested structured questionnaire to elicit information from 534 women in their homes. Extracted data were analyzed with Stata version 13.0. Frequency and simple proportion were used to describe the characteristics of the women. Bivariate analysis was undertaken to show the association between birth intervals and various sociodemographic factors. Determinants of birth interval were measured by multivariate logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results:

The mean maternal age is 35.3 years (standard deviation = 7.3 years). According to the results, 74.2% (396/354) of the women reported short birth interval (<24 months), 13.7% (73/534) reported adequate birth interval, and 12.2% (65/534) reported too long birth interval. According to the multivariate logistic regression, short birth interval is significantly influenced by education, media exposure, use of contraceptive, unmet need of contraceptive, and age at marriage. Adequate birth interval is determined by education and unmet need of contraceptive. Long birth interval is predicted by education and ideal birth spacing.

Conclusion:

In order to encourage adequate birth spacing, education and employment opportunities should be expanded for women in the study area, and the use of modern contraceptive should be encouraged.
How Do Urban Slum Women Manage Excessive Vaginal Discharge? A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sumudrika Ilankoon Ilankoon Mudiyanselage Prasanthi , Evangeline Goonewardena Christine Sampatha , Fernandopulle Rukshan Cleophas , Rasika Perera Poruthotage Pradeep
Published: October 2022

Background:

Abnormal vaginal discharge (VD), which is a recurring problem for most of the women at reproductive age, is a good predictor for many gynecological morbidities. Many women constantly neglect abnormal VD because of the prevailing “culture of silence.” Women who live in urban slum are vulnerable to many unhealthy practices and have a high prevalence of reproductive tract infection, especially sexually transmitted infections. Hence, this study aimed to describe urban slum women' understanding, attitudes, and related practices for abnormal VD.

Materials and Methods:

This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 550 women living in urban slum in the Colombo Municipal Council area, Colombo District, Sri Lanka, during September 2015–March 2016. A multistage cluster sampling technique was used. A validated, pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect information from females. Data were analyzed using descriptive and relevant inferential statistics (Chi-square test and one-way analysis of variance).

Results:

The mean age of the women was 32.51 (standard deviation [SD] ±7.94) years. The mean knowledge score was 29.18 (SD ± 8.68). Most of the women (97.1%) had inadequate level of knowledge (<50%). A significant association was observed between the knowledge score levels with the participants' educational level (P = 0.00). Major areas of knowledge deficit include causes for pathological VD and reproductive tract infections. Majority (95.9%) agreed that abnormal VD should be taken seriously but from the women who accepted (78.2%) that VD has ever been a concern to them, only 59% had consulted a general practitioner. There was a significant relationship with having accompanying symptoms such as burning sensation and lower abdominal pain and consulting a general practitioner (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Culture-specific health education intervention measures need to be targeted in order to improve their knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward VD.
Association of Hand Grip Muscle Strength and Endurance with Pulmonary Function Tests in Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Bhattacharjya Jolly
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

Modern society is creating a severe threat to the health. Such as physical inactivity leading to muscle weakness, air pollution causing respiratory distress etc. But the relationship between hand grip muscle strength (HGS) and pulmonary function is not clear. Hence, the present study was designed to investigate is there any association of handgrip muscle strength and endurance with pulmonary function test (PFT) parameters in healthy young adults.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 80 healthy volunteers of 18–21 years of age had participated. PFT was done using portable spirometer. For measurement of muscle strength and endurance, handgrip dynamometer was used. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 26 software. Mean was calculated for the general characteristics. Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated to analyze the association of handgrip muscle strength and various indices of pulmonary function.

Results:

In this study (47), 58.8% were male and (33) 41.3% were female. Muscle strength, endurance, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory flow in 1 s (FEV1), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) were significantly higher in males than females. There were significantly positive correlation of handgrip muscle strength with FVC (r = 0.522**, P = 0.000) and FEV1 (r = 0.486**, P = 0.000). Muscle endurance was significantly positively correlated with FVC (r = 0.397**, P = 0.000), FEV1 (r = 0.438**, P = 0.000) and PEFR (r = 0.221*, P = 0.049).

Conclusions:

Hence, it can be concluded that there is a positive correlation of handgrip muscle strength and endurance with pulmonary function. Hence, HGS can also be used to predict pulmonary function.
Perception and Practices of Homemakers Regarding Extra Salt Consumption in Tripura
Authors: Datta Anjan , Karmakar Nabarun , Nag Kaushik , Bhattacharjee Partha
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

India has diverse dietary culture where salt and spices are used extensively, but up-to-date figures on population salt consumption are very limited.

Objectives:

The objective of this study is to assess the perception and practices of females doing household cooking regarding extra salt consumption and to have a rural–urban comparison on a specified population.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 480 homemakers residing in a rural and urban (Madhupur, Sepahijala district and Dukli, West Tripura district, respectively) area of Tripura for a period of 6 months. A predesigned, pretested, semi-structured interview schedule divided into two parts was used to collect the required information, and scores were given for each response regarding perception and practice of the participants.

Results:

The mean age of the respondents was 38.48 ± 14.063 years and 37.30 ± 12.087 years, respectively, for rural and urban areas, and both the populations were comparable in their baseline characteristics. Majority of the participants believed recommended daily salt consumption per person daily was >5–10 g (62.9% of rural and 59.6% of the urban participants) which was too high, and significant difference (P value 0.002) was found in practice regarding extra salt consumption among rural and urban participants.

Conclusion:

This study revealed good perception and significantly better practice regarding extra salt consumption among the urban population. Social caste in the rural population and socioeconomic status in both the study groups were the factors responsible for extra salt consumption in this study.
Expert Group Opinion for Urinary Tract Infection in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients in South Asia
Authors: Gang Sishir , Rana Abhyuday , Bansal Shyam Bihari
Published: October 2022

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the common infections in solid organ transplant recipients and the most common infection in kidney transplant recipients. UTI in the early posttransplant period is associated with significant morbidity and graft dysfunction. Female gender, advanced age, presence of urinary tract abnormalities, and diabetes mellitus are some of the risk factors for UTI. The emergence of multi-drug resistant bacteria has made the treatment difficult and one needs to be aware of the local antibiotic resistance pattern when treating empirically. These patients should be treated adequately and those with recurrent UTI would need long-term prophylaxis. Asymptomatic bacteriuria should only be treated if it occurs within the first 2–3 months of transplant, otherwise, it can lead to the emergence of the resistant organism without any benefit. To reduce the risk of UTI after transplant, the Foley's catheter should be removed within 3–5 days, DJ stent should be removed within 2–3 weeks and the recipient should be kept on routine prophylaxis for 6 months.
Expert Group Opinion for Endemic Bacterial Infections in South Asia in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients - Typhoid, Paratyphoid, Leptospirosis, Scrub Typhus, and Melioidosis
Authors: Deswal Vikas , Ramasubramanian Venktasubramanian , Rana Abhyudaysingh , Bansal Shyam Bihari , Mahajan Sandeep
Published: October 2022

Typhoid, paratyphoid, leptospirosis, scrub typhus, and melioidosis are some of the common bacterial infections which are endemic in the region of South Asia. Typhoid and paratyphoid cause enteric fever which is a common cause of fever in the general population in this region. It is caused by Salmonella through contaminated food and water. Enteric fever is one of the most common causes of fever in travelers in this region. Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Leptospira and occurs due to direct contact with animals like or through abraded skin after the monsoon in the endemic area. Fever and jaundice are the most common presentations. Scrub typhus is caused by mite Orientia tsutsugamushi and it has now emerged as one of the most common causes of pyrexia in this region. Melioidosis is an uncommon infection caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomalle, which is endemic in some regions of South Asia and is usually seen in immunocompromised individuals. Melioidosis is often called great mimicker due to a variety of clinical manifestations which might confuse it with other diseases. All these infections can cause fever or other systemic complications involving various organs in transplant recipients, so they should be kept as part of differential diagnosis of pyrexia in transplant recipients. There are no recommendations to screen for these infections in transplant candidates or donors, however, transplant candidates or donors with fever should be investigated for these infections and transplant should be deferred until full recovery and for some time thereafter.
Expert Group Opinion for Respiratory Infections in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients in South Asia
Authors: Prasannakumar P. , Gadde Ashwini B , Bansal Shyam B. , Rupali Priscilla
Published: October 2022

Respiratory infections are among the most common and serious infections after solid organ transplantation (SOT). Infections within a month after transplant are usually donor-derived or bacterial infections related to surgical infections or ventilator associated. Infections between 1–6 months after SOT are mostly opportunistic due to various viruses, or fungal infections. After 6 months of transplantation usually community acquired infections predominate, however it is not uncommon to find opportunistic fungal and viral infections in this period. The signs and symptoms of these infections are often mitigated in SOT recipients, so a high index of suspicion is required along with microbiological or tissue diagnosis early in the course to timely treat these infections. Thorough screening for common infections and endemic infections is required in donor and recipients before transplantation to reduce the risk of infections in posttransplant period. Finally, a longer duration of treatment and prophylaxis is required for adequately treat these infections and prevent the relapse.
Expert Group Opinion for Diagnosis and Management Viral Hepatitis in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients in South Asia
Authors: Saraf Neeraj , Dhampalwar Swapnil , Kute Vivek , Bansal Shyam Bihari
Published: October 2022

Viral hepatitis is endemic in the South Asia region and is mainly caused by four hepatotropic viruses: hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis E virus (HEV). South Asia region consists of developing countries and HAV and HEV infections are common because of poor sanitary conditions and hygiene practices. HAV and HEV are transmitted person-to-person by fecal[FIGURE DASH]oral route. HBV and HCV are transmitted via permucosal or percutaneous exposure. It is important to know the impact of these viral infections in the setting of transplantation including evaluation and management in pre, peri, and posttransplant periods. This review summarizes the epidemiology, preventive practices, and advisory for travelers to these endemic regions. Furthermore, recommendations for screening donors and recipients in transplant settings are discussed.
Patient Activation Measure among Transfusion-Dependent Patients with Hemoglobinopathies
Authors: Badawi Maha A. , Alkhamesi Sultan M. , Alsulaimani Dana S. , Khodary Aseel , Almutairi Khulud A. , Alsolaimani Roaa S. , Al-Najjar Salwa A.
Published: October 2022

CONTEXT:

Patient's sense of control over their disease management (patient activation) is reported to be associated with better disease outcomes in many chronic conditions.

AIMS:

The aim of this study is to assess patient activation levels among adult transfusion-dependent patients with hemoglobinopathies. The secondary aims were to determine whether the level of patient activation is associated with different disease outcomes and whether an association exists between higher levels of activation and specific patient characteristics.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN:

Participants were recruited from the day-care unit in the period between November 2019 and April 2021. Patients who agreed to participate were asked to provide demographic and socioeconomic data and complete the patient activation measure (PAM-10) in Arabic. Hospital records were reviewed for the retrieval of clinical data.

RESULTS:

The total number of participants was 84. The mean PAM score was 52.90 ± 10. Of all the participants, 21 (25%) had very low levels of activation (Level 1), 38 (45.2%) were categorized as Level 2, 21 (25%) were categorized as Level 3, while 4 (4.8%) were categorized as Level 4 (highest activation level). Disease outcomes were not different among patients by level of patient activation.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results show that transfusion-dependent patients with hemoglobinopathies have low levels of activation. No association was found between patient activation and clinical disease outcomes.
Anticoagulant Status Under COVID-19
Authors: Marzoog Basheer Abdullah
Published: October 2022

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is a systematic multitropic disease. Sustaining blood homeostasis is a mission of multiple factors includes procoagulant and anticoagulant systems. Subsequently, maintaining a precise equilibrium between these antagonists' systems is crucial to prevent hemostasis. Frequently, during severe forms of COVID-19 patients, studies reported a discrepancy between the procoagulant and anticoagulant that usually results in fatal outcomes through multiorgan ischemia by thrombotic events. The proper interpreting of the anticoagulant status changes in COVID-19 patients is sufficient for effective and safe anticoagulant treatment. Our postulation is the first to address the pathophysiology of anticoagulant status under COVID-19.
Immune Tolerance Induction in a Severe Hemophilia B Child with Low Titer Inhibitors
Authors: Almulla Asia , Awan Najam , Khanani Faisl
Published: October 2022

Hemophilia B is an X-linked inherited bleeding disorder caused by either the absence or reduced biosynthesis of clotting factor IX (FIX). This disorder affects approximately 1 in 30,000 male individuals worldwide. Patients with severe form (FIX <1%) account for 30%–45% of hemophilia B cases and usually report of spontaneous bleeds. Treatment includes FIX replacement prophylactically to prevent complications. However, the patient may develop inhibitors against FIX, which is rare and a serious complication, reported to occur in 1.5%–3% of hemophilia B patients. Immune tolerance induction is a therapeutic strategy to eliminate inhibitors. We report a 14-month-old-male child with severe hemophilia B on primary prophylaxis, presented with right knee swelling. He developed anaphylactic reaction while receiving recombinant FIX concentrate. Investigation revealed that FIX inhibitor titers were 1.0 Bethesda Units. He was managed with immune tolerance induction successfully.
Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: AlFawaz Ibrahim , Alhejaili Amal , Siddiqui Khawar , Ayas Mouhab
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND:

Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare disorder leading to destruction of tissues as well as causing lesions in the body. LCH can be self-limiting to disseminated life threatening.

OBJECTIVES:

We wanted to review data on presentation and outcome of our treatment efforts on patients with LCH diagnosed and treated at our institution.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

In this retrospective study involving 75 pediatric patients with LCH diagnosed between 1998 and 2018, we evaluated clinicopathological features, laboratory findings, treatment modalities and outcome.

RESULTS:

In males median age at the time of diagnosis was 2.4 years. The median follow up was 63+/- 7.9 months. The most common presenting symptom was a bone lesion-related symptom. 57.3% were above 2 years of age at presentation while 38.7% below 2 years of age. 53% of cases had multisystem disease at diagnosis. Liver found to be most common organ involved. Treatment consisted of observation, surgery or chemotherapy. Vinblastine with steroid was the most common used chemotherapy regimen. 3 patients with progressive refractory disease underwent stem cell transplantation.

CONCLUSION:

Overall survival was significantly lower in patients with liver involvement.
Frequency of Sickle Cell Hemoglobin in High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Received in a Centralized Laboratory
Authors: Alam Hareem , Ali Natasha
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND:

Sickle cell disease and its variants result from an abnormal hemoglobin, hemoglobin S (HbS), caused by a single point mutation in the Beta-Globin gene. Hypoxia causes polymerization and distortion of Hb S containing red blood cells resulting in sickle crisis and hemolytic anemia. Common diagnostic methods include high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and hemoglobin electrophoresis. The purpose of this research is to determine the frequency of sickle cell hemoglobin in HPLC samples and its geographical distribution in Pakistan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Data was collected from the samples received from 1st February 2020 to 31st January 2021. Proforma included demography, complete blood count parameters, and variants of sickle cell disease which were extracted from hospital records. Analysis was done using the SPSS (version 26).

RESULTS:

Out of 14,740 samples, 295 (2%) revealed HbS. These patients had a mean age of 14.2 years. The male-to-female ratio was 1.5:1. The samples were received from Baluchistan (43%), followed by Sindh (32.1%), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (16%), and Punjab (8.9%). Mean hemoglobin was 8.6 ± 2.6 g/dl, lowest and highest were 2.4 g/dl and 16.9 g/dl, respectively. Sickle cell trait was found in 21.3% of the patients, homozygous HbSS in 27.7%, sickle beta thalassemia in 30.8%, 4.4% were compound heterozygotes for Hb S and Hb D, whereas 15.5% were posttransfusion samples.

CONCLUSION:

Our analysis showed that the highest frequency was of sickle beta thalassemia and other variants being low. This study also proved it to be more prevalent in Baluchistan with relatively high male preponderance.
Survival Outcomes of Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Patients Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Aljudaibi Lujain Talib , Bayoumy Mohamed Salaheldin , Altrabolsi Hassan A. , Alzaydi Abdullah M. , Aldajani Nawaf , Hammad Nadia , Alzahrani Ismail , Elhadidy Marwa , Abosoudah Ibraheem F.
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND:

Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) increases demand on Paediatric Intensive Care Units (PICU) and survival outcomes has emerged as an area of interest in HSCT research.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

The aim of this retrospective case-control study is to estimate the incidence and survival outcomes, and identify variables associated with survival amongst HSCT patients:

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Patients aged ≤15 years transplanted during January 2016 to December 2019 and requiring PICU admission(s). Statistical analysis involved calculating incidence of PICU admission, 2-year overall survival using Kaplan-Meier method; univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis performed to identify factors associated with outcomes and P-value of <0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS:

Total of 130 patients underwent 150 HSCT, 31 (24%) of patients required 50 PICU admissions, discharge following PICU admission was observed in 36 (72%) admission episodes, while 14 (28%) associated with patient demise. Two- year Overall Survival (OS) amongst HSCT patients requiring PICU admission was 58% compared to 96.6% amongst patients not requiring PICU (P<0.001). subgroup analysis of cases with malignant disorders and non-malignant disorders showed similar results (P<0.001). Univariate analysis revealed reduced intensity conditioning, no engraftment at the time of PICU admission, and sepsis associated with decreased survival, however multivariate analysis revealed sepsis as the single independent prognostic factor for decreased survival. Our study reports 24% incidence of PICU admission amongst patients undergoing HSCT with a 28% mortality rate following PICU admission.

CONCLUSION:

Sepsis identified as the single prognostic factor associated with decreased survival. Therefore, efforts to optimize early identification and management of sepsis in the high-acuity setting of pediatric HSCT is warranted
Size of data in implicit function problems and singular perturbations for nonlinear Schrödinger systems
Authors: Baldi Pietro , Haus Emanuele
Published: October 2022

We investigate a general question about the size and regularity of the data and the solutions in implicit function problems with loss of regularity. First, we give a heuristic explanation of the fact that the optimal data size found by Ekeland and Séré with their recent nonquadratic version of the Nash–Moser theorem can also be recovered, for a large class of nonlinear problems, with quadratic schemes. Then we prove that this heuristic observation applies to the singular perturbation Cauchy problem for the nonlinear Schrödinger system studied by Métivier, Rauch, Texier, Zumbrun, Ekeland, and Séré. Using a “free flow component” decomposition and applying an abstract Nash–Moser–Hörmander theorem, we improve the existing results regarding both the size of the data and the regularity of the solutions.
No evidence of delay in colorectal cancer diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic in Gwangju and Jeonnam, Korea
Authors: Kim Hye-Yeon , Kim Min-Gyeong , Kang Mi-Ran , Yang Jeong-Ho , Shin Min-Ho , Kweon Sun-Seog
Published: October 2022

OBJECTIVES: We evaluated whether the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused delays in the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) in Korea, where there have been no regional or hospital lockdowns during the pandemic period.METHODS: Data on CRC patients (n=1,445) diagnosed in Gwangju Metropolitan City and Jeonnam Province between January 2019 and December 2021 were assessed. The stage at the time of CRC diagnosis, route to diagnosis, time to initial cancer treatment, and length of hospital admission were compared before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Logistic regression was also performed to identify factors associated with the risk for diagnosis in an advanced stage.RESULTS: No negative effects indicating a higher CRC stage at diagnosis or delayed treatment during the pandemic were observed. Instead, the risk for an advanced stage at diagnosis (TNM stage III/IV) decreased in CRC patients diagnosed during the pandemic (odds ratio, 0.768; 95% confidence interval, 0.647 to 0.911). No significant differences in the interval from diagnosis to operation or chemotherapy were observed.CONCLUSIONS: No negative effects on CRC diagnosis and treatment were found until the end of 2021, which may be related to the small magnitude of the COVID-19 epidemic, the absence of a lockdown policy in Korea, and the rebound in the number of diagnostic colonoscopy procedures in 2021.
Algunos aspectos deontológicos en la cobertura de informaciones científicas Estudio de caso: “Crisis volcánica” del Teide
Authors: Pérez-Martínez Víctor Manuel
Published: October 2022

El artículo es el resultado de un trabajo de investigación enfocado en algunos aspectos deontológicos del periodismo científico. En primer lugar hace una revisión teórica sobre ciencia, periodismo, divulgación, internet y periodismo científico incluyendo algunas reflexiones sobre los principios deontológicos en el tratamiento de las fuentes informativas en las informaciones sobre ciencia y tecnología. Estos planteamientos sirven de base para la investigación en donde se plantea un análisis de la cobertura informativa sobre una presunta “crisis volcánica” en el Teide durante los ańos 2004-2005 realizada por el diario digital tinerfeńo El Día. El trabajo requirió la revisión del material publicado en este diario y el posterior análisis de contenido a partir de las categorías establecidas. Se utilizó la versión digital con la finalidad de visualizar el alcance de las informaciones publicadas, además de ser cotejadas con su versión impresa, de cobertura local pero dirigido al público más afectado por las informaciones. Los resultados ofrecen algunos cuestionamientos sobre la forma cómo se realiza la cobertura informativa en un tema de interés local, nacional e internacional por las repercusiones que en el ámbito social, económico y turístico (principal sector industrial de Tenerife) puede tener este tipo de noticias.