bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Anxiety on Readiness for COVID-19 Vaccination among Polish Nursing Undergraduate Students: Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gotlib Joanna , Jaworski Mariusz , Wawrzuta Dominik , Sobierajski Tomasz , Panczyk Mariusz
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on the mental health of people around the world, and it increased the level of fear of infection and anxiety about the consequences of the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. We examined the relationship between the level of anxiety among nursing students and their knowledge about COVID-19 vaccination. In addition, we explored the correlations among the level of anxiety, knowledge about vaccination, and the willingness to vaccinate against COVID-19. A total of 790 undergraduate nursing students participated in the study. The results demonstrated that the level of anxiety among the surveyed nursing students was low; 40% of the study participants did not report any anxiety at all, 30% reported mild anxiety, 20% reported moderate anxiety, and 9% reported severe anxiety. At the time of the study, 77.2% of the participants were already vaccinated against COVID-19. Student knowledge about vaccination against COVID-19 was high and anxiety levels were low, with no direct correlation between the knowledge of vaccination and the severity of anxiety.
Differences in COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance, Hesitancy, and Confidence between Healthcare Workers and the General Population in Japan
Authors: Hara Megumi , Ishibashi Motoki , Nakane Atsushi , Nakano Takashi , Hirota Yoshio
Published: December 2021

Little is known about the differences in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine acceptance and hesitancy between the general population and healthcare workers in Japan. To compare these differences, a nationwide web-based cross-sectional survey was conducted on 19 January 2021, shortly before the initiation of COVID-19 vaccinations in Japan. A total of 6180 men and women aged 20–69 years and 1030 healthcare workers aged 20–69 years were enrolled. Data on COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, basic characteristics, including socioeconomic factors, and confidence in immunization in general were collected. COVID-19 vaccine acceptance was also evaluated under hypothetical vaccine effectiveness and adverse event frequencies. Factors associated with vaccine hesitancy were examined using multinomial logistic regression analysis. The COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate was 48.6% among the general population and was lower among nurses (45.5%) and medical clerks (40.7%). Women and young adults had significantly higher COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy odds ratios, and current smokers had significantly lower odds ratios. The frequency of adverse events was a COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy factor. Even if these factors were adjusted, COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among nurses was 1.4 times higher than that among the general population. Thus, interventions to improve health literacy and vaccine hesitancy among the general population and healthcare workers, especially nurses, are needed.
Pneumococcal Immunization Strategies for High-Risk Pediatric Populations Worldwide: One Size Does Not Fit All
Authors: Lagousi Theano , Papadatou Ioanna , Strempas Petros , Chatzikalil Elena , Spoulou Vana
Published: December 2021

Despite the significant reduction in pneumococcal disease due to pneumococcal vaccines, protection of vulnerable high-risk individuals, especially pediatric populations, remains a great challenge. In an effort to maximize the protection of high-risk children against pneumococcal disease, a combined schedule that includes both conjugate and polysaccharide vaccines is recommended by several countries in the developed world. On the other hand, middle- and low-income countries do not have in place established policies for pneumococcal immunization of children at risk. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, despite their benefits, have several limitations, mainly associated with serotype replacement and the wide range of serotype coverage worldwide. In addition, PPV23-impaired immunogenicity and the hyporesponsiveness effect among populations at risk have been well-documented. Therefore, the added value of continuing to include PPV23 in vaccination schedules for high-risk individuals in the years to come remains to be determined by monitoring whether the replacing/remaining serotypes causing IPD are covered by PPV23 to determine whether its benefits outweigh its limitations. In this review, we aim to describe serotype distribution and vaccine efficacy data on pneumococcal disease in the pre- and post-PCV implementation era among high-risk children in both developed and developing countries, assessing the optimization of current recommendations for their vaccination against pneumococcal disease.
Directing T-Cell Immune Responses for Cancer Vaccination and Immunotherapy
Authors: Smith Peter Lawrence , Piadel Katarzyna , Dalgleish Angus George
Published: December 2021

Cancer vaccination and immunotherapy revolutionised the treatment of cancer, a result of decades of research into the immune system in health and disease. However, despite recent breakthroughs in treating otherwise terminal cancer, only a minority of patients respond to cancer immunotherapy and some cancers are largely refractive to immunotherapy treatment. This is due to numerous issues intrinsic to the tumour, its microenvironment, or the immune system. CD4+ and CD8+ αβ T-cells emerged as the primary effector cells of the anti-tumour immune response but their function in cancer patients is often compromised. This review details the mechanisms by which T-cell responses are hindered in the setting of cancer and refractive to immunotherapy, and details many of the approaches under investigation to direct T-cell function and improve the efficacy of cancer vaccination and immunotherapy.
Herpetic Keratitis Preceded by COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Li Saiqun , Jia Xiuhua , Yu Fei , Wang Qian , Zhang Tingting , Yuan Jin
Published: December 2021

The global Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has accelerated vaccine development at an unprecedented rate. A large population of people have received COVID-19 vaccines, while the vaccine safety data are limited. Here, we reported two cases of herpetic keratitis that occurred soon after receiving the inactivated COVID-19 vaccines. Case 1 was a 60-year-old woman who underwent penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) one year ago for corneal scarring caused by herpes simplex keratitis (HSK), and case 2 was a 51-year-old man with an unremarkable medical history. Both patients developed herpetic keratitis (HSK and varicella-zoster virus corneal endotheliitis, respectively) soon after receiving the inactivated COVID-19 vaccines (Sinovac). Herpetic keratitis was treated successfully with topical or plus oral antiviral ganciclovir. The short latency time in these two cases suggested that an inactivated COVID-19 vaccine may have a risk of triggering ocular herpes virus reactivation. Both clinicians and patients should be aware of this phenomenon. However, a causal relationship awaits confirmation.
Ocular Manifestations after Receiving COVID-19 Vaccine: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lee Yu-Kuei , Huang Yi-Hsun
Published: December 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had profound and lasting consequences since 2019. Although vaccines against COVID-19 have been developed and approved under emergency use authorization, various adverse events have also been reported after COVID-19 vaccination. This review was undertaken to help clinicians recognize the possible manifestations and systemic pathogenesis, especially those related to the eye, after receiving COVID-19 vaccination. A systemic search was performed on 22 August 2021 through Embase, Medline, and Cochrane Library for publications on ocular manifestations after COVID-19 vaccination. Two case-control studies/retrospective cohort studies, one cross-sectional study, three case series, sixteen case reports, two images, and seven letters were included. Ocular manifestations after receiving COVID-19 vaccines may appear on the eyelid, cornea and ocular surface, retina, uvea, nerve, and vessel. The ocular manifestations occurred up to forty-two days after vaccination, and vaccine-induced immunologic responses may be responsible. Although the incidence rate of ocular symptoms is considerably lower in the vaccinated subjects than in COVID-19 patients, physicians should be aware of the possible associations between COVID-19 vaccines and ocular symptoms for the early diagnosis and treatment of vision problems or life-threatening complications.
Role of Vaccine Hesitancy, eHealth Literacy, and Vaccine Literacy in Young Adults’ COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake Intention in a Lower-Middle-Income Country
Authors: Nath Rima , Imtiaz Asif , Nath Shobod Deba , Hasan Emran
Published: December 2021

Various control measures, including vaccination, have been taken to flatten the COVID-19 epidemic curve across the globe. However, in Bangladesh, many young adults, considered the asymptomatic transmitter of the disease, are waiting to get their first shot. Therefore, the potential predictors of the young adults’ vaccine uptake intention are significant to ensure their maximum vaccination when available to them. This study examined how vaccine hesitancy, eHealth literacy, and vaccine literacy are associated with young adults’ COVID-19 vaccine uptake intention in a lower-middle-income country. A total of 343 young adults participated in the study. Using ordinary least square and probit estimation, we examined the effect of the explanatory variables of interest on vaccine uptake intention. Vaccine hesitancy emerged as the strongest predictor of vaccine uptake intention. eHealth literacy shared a positive association with vaccine uptake intention, while vaccine literacy had no significant association. To make young adults feel more confident about the vaccine, transmitting the latest vaccine safety updates through authentic channels is essential. The government can aim to enhance the eHealth literacy of young adults as an increased level of eHealth literacy will enable young adults to extract reliable health-related information more efficiently than ever.
Evaluating Rates and Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy for Adults and Children in the Singapore Population: Strengthening Our Community’s Resilience against Threats from Emerging Infections (SOCRATEs) Cohort
Authors: Griva Konstadina , Tan Kevin Y. K. , Chan Frederick H. F. , Periakaruppan Ramanathan , Ong Brenda W. L. , Soh Alexius S. E. , Chen Mark IC.
Published: December 2021

COVID-19 vaccines are crucial for achieving sufficient immunisation coverage to manage the pandemic, but vaccine hesitancy persists. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and determinants of vaccine hesitancy in adults and in parents for vaccinating their children using an integrated social cognition model. A community-based cohort in Singapore [N = 1623] completed a survey (wave 25) between June and July 2021 which measured their risk perceptions, distress, trust, vaccination beliefs, and vaccine intentions/behaviours. Results indicated low rates of hesitancy (9.9%) for own vaccination, with most concerns citing side effects, safety, and hasty development. Remaining respondents were vaccinated (69%) or intended to vaccinate (21%). The multivariable model (non-vaccinated respondents) indicated that, living with people in poor health, subjective norm, moral norm, benefits, and necessity of vaccination were associated with lower vaccine hesitancy (R2 Cox & Snell: 51.4%; p < 0.001). Hesitancy rates were higher for children’s vaccination (15.9%), with male gender, lower perceived vaccine benefits, high COVID-19 risk perceptions, vaccination concerns, and necessity beliefs associated with higher odds of parental vaccine hesitancy (R2 Cox & Snell = 36.4%; p < 0.001). While levels of vaccine acceptance are high, more targeted messages are needed. For adults’ vaccination, more emphasis should be on benefits and social gains, while for parental hesitancy, messages related to safety should be prioritised.
“Until I Know It’s Safe for Me”: The Role of Timing in COVID-19 Vaccine Decision-Making and Vaccine Hesitancy
Authors: Kennedy Eric B. , Daoust Jean-François , Vikse Jenna , Nelson Vivian
Published: December 2021

Managing the COVID-19 pandemic—and other communicable diseases—involves broad societal uptake of vaccines. As has been demonstrated, however, vaccine uptake is often uneven and incomplete across populations. This is a substantial challenge that must be addressed by public health efforts. To this point, significant research has focused on demographic and attitudinal correlates with vaccine hesitancy to understand uptake patterns. In this study, however, we advance understandings of individual decision-making processes involved in vaccine uptake through a mixed-methods investigation of the role of timing in COVID-19 vaccine choices. In the first step, a survey experiment, we find the timing of vaccine rollout (i.e., when a vaccine becomes available to the respondent) has a significant impact on public decision-making. Not only is there a higher level of acceptance when the vaccine becomes available at a later time, but delayed availability is correlated with both lower levels of ‘desire to wait’ and ‘total rejection’ of the vaccine. In a second step, we explore associated qualitative data, finding that temporal expressions (i.e., professing a desire to wait) can serve as a proxy for underlying non-temporal rationales, like concerns around safety, efficacy, personal situations, or altruism. By identifying these patterns, as well as the complexities of underlying factors, through a mixed-methods investigation, we can inform better vaccine-related policy and public messaging, as well as enhance our understanding of how individuals make decisions about vaccines in the context of COVID-19.
Trusted Sources of COVID-19 Vaccine Information among Hesitant Adopters in the United States
Authors: Purvis Rachel S. , Hallgren Emily , Moore Ramey A. , Willis Don E. , Hall Spencer , Gurel-Headley Morgan , McElfish Pearl A.
Published: December 2021

The World Health Organization has identified vaccine hesitancy as a top health concern. Emerging research shows that those who are hesitant may still get vaccinated; however, little is known about those who say they are hesitant but still get vaccinated. Most people have high trust in several sources of COVID-19 information, and trust in certain information sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and health care providers was associated with being vaccinated. This study explored trusted information sources among hesitant adopters in the United States with a survey respondents completed while waiting after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine dose. The study included (n = 867) respondents. The majority of respondents were female (60.21%); were between the ages of 18 and 44 years old (71.97%); and were diverse, with most identifying as White (44.54%) or Hispanic/Latinx (32.55%). Hesitant adopters reported multiple trusted sources of COVID-19 vaccine information, which can be grouped into four emergent subthemes: (1) Health care/Medical science, (2) Personal relationships, (3) News and social media, and (4) Individual/Myself. Some respondents expressed a distrust of all sources of COVID-19 vaccine information, despite receiving the vaccine, describing a lack of trust in traditional sources of information such as the mainstream media or government. This study contributes to the literature by documenting trusted sources of COVID-19 vaccine information among hesitant adopters in the United States. Findings provide important insights about respondents’ trusted sources of COVID-19 vaccine information that can inform future public health messaging campaigns intended to increase vaccine uptake among hesitant adopters.
Relevance of the Ejaculate Fraction and Dilution Method on Boar Sperm Quality during Processing and Conservation of Seminal Doses
Authors: Sebastián-Abad Blanca , Llamas-López Pedro José , García-Vázquez Francisco Alberto
Published: December 2021

During boar semen processing and distribution, maximizing the work protocols in the laboratories becomes essential for the conservation of seminal doses. One of the recent implementations in the boar studs to improve efficiency has been semi-automatic semen collection systems, which do not allow to discard fractions of the ejaculate. The objective of this work was to evaluate the dilution method and vibrations (simulating delivery transport) effect on sperm quality (motility, viability, morphology, thermo-resistance test) according to the fraction of ejaculate collected. Two different fractions of the ejaculate were obtained [rich fraction (RF); total fractions (TF)] from six boars, and two dilution methods applied [pouring the extender over the semen (control; ES); pouring the semen over the extender (reverse; SE)]. The seminal doses (2000 × 106 sperm/50 mL) were preserved for 5 days. The results showed that the fraction collected affects sperm quality (better total and progressive motility, and faster sperm in TF; p < 0.05) regardless of the dilution method applied. However, these differences diminished after submitting the semen to the thermo-resistance test, with only differences in sperm viability being observed (p < 0.05). When seminal doses were subjected to vibrations, the sperm viability was more affected in the TF than in the RF group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, using the TF ejaculate leads to comparable results to the RF in sperm quality during storage regardless of the dilution method applied. However, the vibrations of seminal doses are more affected in doses prepared with TF than with RF, although more factors should be included to approach the real conditions during transport.
Prognostic Value of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Patterns by Western Blotting Immunodetection in Treated Dogs Previously Infected with Leishmania infantum
Authors: Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb , Zanet Stefania , Poggi Marco , Alsharif Khalaf F. , Lokman Maha S. , Trisciuoglio Anna , Ferroglio Ezio
Published: December 2021

Leishmaniasis is a heterogeneous group of neglected tropical diseases with various clinical syndromes, which is caused by obligate intracellular protozoa of the genus Leishmania and transmitted by the bite of a female phlebotomine sandfly. Humans and several animal species are considered as reservoirs of the disease. Among other animal species, dogs are the most important reservoirs in a domestic environment, maintaining the endemic focus of the parasite. The behavior of the disease progression and the clinical symptoms of the disease in the infected dog is mainly associated with depressed cellular immunity and strong humoral response. This study aimed to assess the role of Western blotting in the analysis of the idiotype expression of the two main immunoglobulins (IgG1 and IgG2) in dogs that are naturally infected with Leishmania infantum (L. infantum) and treated with N-methyl meglumine antimoniate. Interestingly, for the first time, our study identified several L. infantum antigen polypeptides (14, 31, 33, 49, 64, 66, 99, and 169 kDa) that more frequently stimulate an immune reaction in recovered dogs after treatment, whereas in the non-recovered group of dogs, four antigen polypeptides of L. infantum with molecular weights of 31, 49, 66, and 115 kDa with unfavorable prognosis were identified. Clearly, these interesting findings confirm the strong association between the detected immunodominant bands and the successful recovery in treated dogs that can be used for differentiating the treated dogs from the untreated dogs, as well as the markers of a favorable or unfavorable prognosis and, as a consequence, the prediction of the clinical outcome of the disease. Likewise, these data could be helpful in the implementation of novel vaccines from the detected antigens.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile of Several Bacteria Species Identified in the Peritoneal Exudate of Cows Affected by Parietal Fibrinous Peritonitis after Caesarean Section
Authors: Djebala Salem , Evrard Julien , Gregoire Fabien , Bayrou Calixte , Gille Linde , Eppe Justine , Casalta Hélène , Frisée Vincent , Moula Nassim , Sartelet Arnaud , Thiry Damien , Bossaert Philippe
Published: December 2021

The aim of this study was to identify the species and antimicrobial susceptibility of bacteria involved in parietal fibrinous peritonitis (PFP). We studied 156 peritoneal fluid samples from cows presenting PFP after caesarean section. Bacteria were cultured in selective media and their antimicrobial susceptibility was tested by disk diffusion assay. Bacteria were isolated in the majority (129/156; 83%) of samples. The majority (82/129; 63%) of positive samples contained one dominant species, while two or more species were cultured in 47/129 (36%) samples. Trueperella pyogenes (T. Pyogenes) (107 strains) was the most identified species, followed by Escherichia coli (E. coli) (38 strains), Proteus mirabilis (P. mirabilis) (6 strains), and Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) (6 strains). Several other species were sporadically identified. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested in 59/185 strains, predominantly E. coli (38 strains) and P. mirabilis (6 strains). Antibiotic resistance, including resistance to molecules of critical importance, was commonly observed; strains were classified as weakly drug resistant (22/59; 37%), multidrug resistant (24/59; 41%), extensively drug resistant (12/59; 20%), or pan-drug resistant (1/59; 2%). In conclusion, extensive antibiotic resistance in the isolated germs might contribute to treatment failure. Ideally, antimicrobial therapy of PFP should be based upon bacterial culture and susceptibility testing.
First Isolation and Molecular Characterization of Pseudorabies Virus in a Hunting Dog in Sicily (Southern Italy)
Authors: Abbate Jessica Maria , Giannetto Alessia , Iaria Carmelo , Riolo Kristian , Marruchella Giuseppe , Hattab Jasmine , Calabrò Placido , Lanteri Giovanni
Published: December 2021

Pseudorabies virus (PrV) is the etiological agent of Aujeszky’s disease, a viral infection that causes neurological lethal illness in mammals other than swine. Herein, we describe the occurrence of PrV infection in a hunting dog that had been bitten by an infected wild boar in Sicily, reporting for the first time genetic and phylogenetic data on the virus strain isolated in a dog in this Italian region. The dog was referred for severe neurological signs, respiratory distress, and intense itch around the muzzle. Death occurred within 48 h to the onset of clinical signs. On gross examination, self-induced skin lesions to the head due to intense itching and diffuse cerebral congestion were observed, whereas mild, aspecific, nonsuppurative meningitis was histologically diagnosed. Diffuse PrV positivity in neurons of the brainstem was observed by immunohistochemistry. PrV DNA was isolated and amplified from olfactory bulbs by nested PCR, targeting the viral glycoprotein G gene, and the sequence obtained matched with sequences of PrV isolates from dogs and wild boar. Isolation of PrV in the dog herein analysed denotes the spread of the virus in wild boar populations in Sicily and provides a proof of direct interspecies transmission. Thus, there is an urgent need to increase our understanding of the epidemiology of the PrV infection in wildlife to provide tools to trace possible spill over into domestic pigs or other livestock.
Milk Somatic Cell Count and Polymorphonuclear Cells in Healthy Quarters of Cows That Underwent Blanket and Selective Dry Therapy: An Italian Case Study
Authors: Costa Angela , De Marchi Massimo , Sagrafoli Daniele , Lanzi Hillary , Amatiste Simonetta , Boselli Carlo , Giacinti Giuseppina
Published: December 2021

The incidence of mastitis increases with parity in dairy cattle and multiparous cows are often treated at drying off to limit the risk of udder health issues and support mammary gland tissues recovery. Milk somatic cells count (SCC, cells/mL) comprises different white blood cells fractions and is worldwide used to monitor and genetically improve udder health. Nevertheless, only certain SCC fractions increase when an udder inflammation occurs. Considering that antibiotic use for preventive purposes will be forbidden in 2022, we compared two different dry therapy protocols, blanket (BDCT) and selective (SDCT), on different SCC fractions in healthy quarters milk. Multiparous Holstein cows were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial and SCC, neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes, polymorphonuclear cells (PMN) and differential somatic cell count (DSCC) recorded after the experimental drying off were available. Significant differences were observed between the two protocols, with more favorable parameters in BDCT than SDCT cows. Results showed that moving from BDCT to SDCT is expected to significantly increase some SCC fractions, such as PMN, in healthy quarters. The baseline SCC level at the onset of lactation was greater in cows under SDCT than BDCT. Although not significant, clinical mastitis prevalence was numerically lower in BDCT (7.32%) than SDCT (8.62%). In this study we referred to a limited number of cows, but still findings will be useful to improve the knowledge on the impact of SDCT on milk SCC fractions in healthy quarters.
The Effects of Altering the Center of Pressure in Standing Subjects Exposed to Foot-Transmitted Vibration on an Optimized Lumped-Parameter Model of the Foot
Authors: Marelli Stefano , Chadefaux Delphine , Goggins Katie , Eger Tammy , Scaccabarozzi Diego , Tarabini Marco
Published: December 2021

Many workers are exposed to foot-transmitted vibration, which can lead to the development of vibration-induced white foot: a debilitating condition with neurological, vascular and osteoarticular symptoms. To design effective prevention mechanisms (i.e., boots and insoles) for isolating workers from vibration exposure, continued model development of the foot’s biodynamic response in different positions is necessary. This study uses a previously developed model of the foot–ankle system (FAS) to investigates how altering the center of pressure (COP) location can change the biodynamic response of the FAS to standing vibration exposure. Formerly published experimental responses for apparent mass and transmissibility at five anatomical locations in three COP positions were used to optimize the model. Differences occurred with the Kelvin–Voigt elements used to represent the soft tissues of the foot sole: at the heel, the distal head of the metatarsals and distal phalanges. The stiffness increased wherever the COP was concentrated (i.e., forward over the toes or backward over the heel). The variability of the model parameters was always greatest when the COP was concentrated in the heel. This suggests future FAS models need to more clearly address how the soft tissue of the plantar fat pad is modelled.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Global Precipitation Measurement Mission (GPM) IMERG Precipitation Products over Mainland China
Authors: Nan Linjiang , Yang Mingxiang , Wang Hao , Xiang Zhenglin , Hao Shaokui
Published: December 2021

Due to the difficulty involved in obtaining and processing a large amount of data, the spatial distribution of the quality and error structure of satellite precipitation products and the climatic dependence of the error sources have not been studied sufficiently. Eight statistical and detection indicators were used to compare and evaluate the accuracy of the Integrated Multi-Satellite Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement Mission (GPM IMERG) precipitation products in China, including IMERG Early, Late, and Final Run. (1) Based on the correlation coefficient between GPM IMERG precipitation products and measured precipitation, the precipitation detection ability is good in eastern China, whereas the root-mean-square error increases from northwest to southeast. (2) Compared with the Early and Late Run, the accuracy of the detection of a light rain of the IMERG Final Run is higher, but the precipitation is overestimated. With the increase in the precipitation intensity, the detection ability weakens, and the precipitation is underestimated. (3) The Final Run has a higher estimation accuracy regarding light rain in western high-altitude areas, whereas the accuracy of the detection of moderate rain, heavy rain, and rainstorms is higher in eastern coastal low-altitude areas. This phenomenon is related to the performance and detection principles of satellites. The altitude and magnitude of the precipitation affect the detection accuracy of the satellite. This study provides guidance for the application of GPM IMERG precipitation products in hydrological research and water resource management in China.
Phenomenon Analysis and Improvement of Magnetic Shield Fringe Effect on Wireless Power Transmission of EV
Authors: Sun Yening , Wei Yao , Tian Yi
Published: December 2021

An increment of magnetic field strength inevitably appears at the shield edge if a magnetic shield is made of a soft magnetic material, and that increment becomes more serious if this shield is combined with the chassis of an electrical vehicle (EV). This phenomenon is caused by the fringe effect, which limits the transfer efficiency of the coupler for the wireless power transmission (WPT) systems of EV. This phenomenon, and its relationships with some parameters, are analyzed in this paper, and these relationships are fitted to estimate the increment for different shield structures. A magnetic shield structure to reduce the increment of the magnetic field strength and improve coupler efficiency is herein proposed. The effectiveness and correctness of the fitting curves and the advantages of the proposed shield structure are demonstrated by finite element analyses results.
Parameter Matching Method of a Battery-Supercapacitor Hybrid Energy Storage System for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Liu Fengchen , Wang Chun , Luo Yunrong
Published: December 2021

To satisfy the high-rate power demand fluctuations in the complicated driving cycle, electric vehicle (EV) energy storage systems should have both high power density and high energy density. In order to obtain better energy and power performances, a combination of battery and supercapacitor are utilized in this work to form a semi-active hybrid energy storage system (HESS). A parameter matching method of battery-supercapacitor HESS for electric vehicles (EVs) is proposed. This method can meet the performance indicators of EVs in terms of power and energy for parameter matching. The result shows that optimized parameter matching is obtained by reducing the weight and cost.
The Intricate Web of Fatigue in Women
Authors: Mathis Bryan
Published: December 2021

The modern woman has taken her rightful place in society as a worker, a caregiver, a mother, and a world citizen. However, along with the privileges of these roles comes the great cost of stress and resultant exhaustion and fatigue. Psychosocial, physical, cultural, and disease-related realms of stress act as strands of a web that serve to bind and hinder women with chronic stress. New areas of research, such as exercise intervention, improved social programs (e.g., childcare), and supplementation are constantly evaluated for effectiveness alongside traditional remedies such as exercise. This review will highlight some of the key issues regarding stress in women and explore reports of new treatment modalities in light of the specific requirements of the modern woman.
Zoonotic Diseases: A New Open Access, Multidisciplinary Journal for Those with Interests in Zoonoses
Authors: Wikel Stephen K.
Published: December 2021

Last May 2021, we launched a new open access journal called Zoonoses [...]
Modern approaches to the implementation of the concept of sustainable development of inter-organizational cooperation of agricultural organizations
Authors: Khoruzhy L. I. , Katkov Yu. N. , Gupalova T. N. , Romanova A. A.
Published: December 2021

The stability of an economic entity, as a rule, is interpreted by the authors as an opportunity to achieve an acceptable level of economic security risks through the tools. This stable position is achieved by keeping the values of the indicators within the limits set for a particular member of the partnership and cooperation as a whole for a certain period. Sustainability in the framework of this study should be understood as the state of stability of the company over a certain period. The period is determined based on the specifics of the indicator. The interest of science among domestic and foreign authors is due to the specifics of the management mechanism of providing systems and achieving a stable position of large associations of economic units. The article discusses the concepts of system stability, approaches to understanding the stability of interorganizational formation, factors affecting system stability, the foundations of the mechanism for achieving stability in
Experiences with screening for atrial fibrillation: a qualitative study in general practice
Authors: Uittenbogaart Steven B , Becker Stéphanie JE , Hoogsteyns Maartje , van Weert Henk CPM , Lucassen Wim AM
Published: December 2021

Background

Guidelines recommend screening for atrial fibrillation (AF). Currently, screening is not considered standard care among GPs.

Aim

To explore the experiences of primary care workers with different methods of screening for AF and with implementation in daily practice.

Design & setting

A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with GPs, nurses, and healthcare assistants (HCAs) who were experienced with implementing different methods of screening.

Method

Two independent researchers audio-recorded and analysed interviews using a thematic approach. They asked participants about their experiences with the different methods used for screening AF and which obstacles they faced when implementing screening in daily practice.

Results

In total 15 GPs, nurse practitioners, and HCAs from seven different practices were interviewed. The GP’s office is suited for screening for AF, which ideally should be integrated with standard care. Participants considered pulse palpation, automated sphygmomanometer with AF detection, and single-lead electrocardiography (ECG) as practical tests. Participants trusted pulse palpation over the algorithm of the devices. The follow-up of a positive test with a time-consuming 12-lead ECG hindered integration of screening. The single-lead ECG device reduced the need for immediate follow-up because it can record a rhythm strip. The extra workload of screening and lack of financial coverage form obstacles for implementation.

Conclusion

Pulse palpation, automated blood pressure measure monitors with AF detection, and single-lead ECGs might facilitate screening in a general practice setting. When implementing screening, focus should be on how to avoid disruption of consultation hours by unplanned 12-lead ECGs.
Information-seeking behaviours and uncertainty around accessing primary care in the changing landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study
Authors: Brown Lynsey Rachael , Williams Andrew James , Shaw Kevin , Ozakinci Gozde , van Beusekom Mara Myrthe
Published: December 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has had and will continue to have a disproportionate effect on the most vulnerable. Public health messaging has been vital to mitigate the impact of the pandemic, but messages intended to slow the transmission of the virus may also cause harm. Understanding the areas where public health messaging could be improved may help reduce this harm.

Aim

To explore and understand health communication issues faced by those most likely to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design & setting

A qualitative study using online surveys. The area of focus was Fife, a local authority in Scotland, UK.

Method

Two consecutive surveys were conducted. Survey 1 explored the observations of support workers and Facebook group moderators, and focused on key issues faced by service users, as well as examples of good practice (n= 19). Survey 2 was aimed at community members, and focused on issues regarding access to and communication around access to primary care (n= 34).

Results

Survey 1 found broad issues around communication and access to primary care services. Survey 2 emphasised key issues in accessing primary care, including: (a) the lengthy process of making appointments; (b) feeling like a burden for wanting to be seen; (c) a lack of confidence in remote triaging and consultations; and (d) not knowing what to expect before getting an appointment.

Conclusion

Clear issues regarding access to primary care were identified. The new understanding of these issues will inform a co-creation process designed to develop clear, actionable, and effective public health messages centred on improving access to primary care.
Percepção dos stakeholders sobre os impactos do fechamento das cavernas turísticas do PETAR em 2008
Authors: Borsanelli Francesca Antoniella , Neiman Zysman , Lobo Heros Augusto Santos
Published: December 2021

O Parque Estadual Turístico do Alto Ribeira (PETAR) é um reconhecido destino de turismo de cavernas. Em 2008, a visitação no Parque foi embargada, afetando a visitação turística e as comunidades locais. O objetivo da presente pesquisa é analisar a visão dos stakeholders sobre os impactos causados ao turismo e à comunidade local pelo fechamento temporário das cavernas turísticas. Para tanto, 50 stakeholders de diferentes grupos representativos do turismo local foram entrevistados. Nos resultados, dentre os impactos citados como positivos, destacam-se o reordenamento da visitação, o acréscimo na segurança para trabalhadores e visitantes e a maior efetividade na conservação. Quanto aos impactos negativos, ressaltam-se os prejuízos financeiros para os envolvidos com o turismo e problemas decorrentes dos novos padrões de visitação. Notou-se também uma mudança no perfil de visitantes do Parque. Entre as conclusões obtidas, destaca-se o aspecto traumático e de caráter impositivo das mudanças realizadas, gerando diversos transtornos evitáveis para a população local envolvida direta e indiretamente com o turismo.
Compras públicas da agricultura familiar para a alimentação escolar em municípios do Estado do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Dias Patrícia Camacho , Bertu Soares Kamilla Carla , Mendonça Ferreira Daniele , Silva Luiz Humberto da , Soares Daniele da Silva Bastos , Henriques Patrícia , Freitas Silvia Eliza Almeida Pereira de , Alcântara Luciene Burlandy Campos de , Barbosa Roseane Moreira Sampaio
Published: December 2021

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar o perfil de compras da agricultura familiar para o Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar em municípios do estado do Rio de Janeiro. Buscou-se compreender as características sociodemográficas dos municípios segundo o percentual de utilização do recurso repassado pelo governo federal para a compra da agricultura familiar, bem como classificar os alimentos solicitados nas chamadas públicas de 2018 conforme a extensão e propósito do processamento. Os municípios que não conseguem cumprir a legislação são aqueles que recebem mais recursos e situados em regiões urbanas. Os gêneros alimentícios mais solicitados nas chamadas públicas são in natura e/ou minimamente processados.
Educação Ambiental para o ecossistema manguezal: uma intervenção no ambiente escolar
Authors: Albuquerque Rita Maria Vasconcelos Louzada , Camargo Maia Rafaela
Published: December 2021

Diante da importância da Educação Ambiental e preservação dos recursos naturais costeiros, este trabalho teve como objetivo: estabelecer uma intervenção, no contexto da prática de Educação Ambiental, no ambiente escolar, a fim de colaborar com o processo de conservação dos manguezais. A pesquisa foi conduzida numa escola pública do município de Cruz – Ceará – Brasil e contou com a participação de professores, alunos e gestores. Os dados foram coletados via aplicação de questionários, entrevistas com os gestores e desenvolvimento de atividades lúdicas com os estudantes. Os resultados mostraram-se positivos para a disseminação do conhecimento, sobre os manguezais, numa vertente transdisciplinar e reforçaram também a necessidade de formação docente para trabalhar os conteúdos curriculares em consonância com a temática ambiental.
Políticas públicas de Educação Ambiental: História, formação e desafios
Authors: Grandisoli Edson , Curvelo Eliana Cordeiro , Neiman Zysman
Published: December 2021

O presente artigo apresenta uma retrospectiva sobre os principais documentos internacionais e políticas públicas nacionais que tratam da Educação Ambiental (EA), além de analisar algumas visões sobre a sua prática. Em especial, são abordadas as possibilidades de atuação com a Educação Ambiental crítica e a aprendizagem baseada em investigação, projetos e/ou problemas, que possuem abordagens complementares e relacionadas ao uso do método científico na busca por caminhos que suportem transformações locais e globais por meio do debate cidadão, da participação e da colaboração. Por fim, os avanços e retrocessos referentes às diretrizes curriculares que norteiam a prática pedagógica no ensino formal são apresentados, e especialmente discutidos para o caso do currículo municipal de São Paulo, com foco nos desafios aos educadores em um cenário de constantes modificações das políticas públicas no ensino formal.
Modelos literarios y fuentes mitográficas de la carta de Cánace (Heroidas 11)
Authors: Camino Plaza Laura
Published: December 2021

La historia de Cánace y Macareo se encuentra recogida en la carta número 11 de la colección ovidiana de Heroidas, siendo lugar común considerar que su modelo literario es el Eolo de Eurípides. En este trabajo se da cuenta de la ambigüedad presente en Heroidas 11 con relación a la identificación de Eolo como padre de Cánace y Macareo, ambigüedad que inevitablemente nos remonta a un problema mitográfico de mayor alcance. Por último, se analizan también las conexiones y desviaciones temáticas entre Heroidas 11 y Eolo a partir de la edición de POxy 2457.
Experiencia de lo intermedial: temporalidades y espacialidades en tensión. Una cartografía de las prácticas teatrales y performáticas de los años 80 en el Cono Sur
Authors: Suarez Micaela
Published: December 2021

Este artículo se propone estudiar cómo la utilización de la reproducción analógica genera, en el teatro y en las prácticas performáticas, irrupciones de la imágen audiovisual que crean una disyunción en el tratamiento espacio-temporal y estético-conceptual como táctica estético política (De Certeau, 1979) Esto marcaría el advenimiento de una relación singular entre la técnica y la estética inaugurada por las prácticas artísticas del primer período post-dictatorial en el Cono Sur. Bajo una perspectiva intermedial y un enfoque multidisciplinario, abordaremos la creación y reproducción de la imagen audiovisual en las prácticas teatrales de dos micropoéticas de Chile y de Argentina, para focalizar en la construcción de la memoria. Analizaremos las producciones de Ramón Griffero en el espacio El Trolley de Chile y la obra del G.T.L dirigido por Omar Pacheco de Argentina como emprendedores de la memoria.
Cuerpos fronterizos en escena, "Souvenir Asiático"
Authors: Sánchez Gutiérrez Adriana
Published: December 2021

En las últimas décadas, los conflictos globales que producen miles de desplazamientos forzados han llevado a un movimiento migratorio en todo el mundo, desde el cual emergen vulnerabilidades de grupos sociales (Butler, 2016) que cuestionan las políticas democráticas y exponen los cuerpos a una movilización deliberada de resistencia. En ese contexto, la movilización no violenta reclama espacios de igualdad en otros territorios liminales (Turner, 1986), en donde el cuerpo es desterritorializado de su identidad (Deleuze y Guattari, 1972). Estas dinámicas han penetrado la escena latinoamericana en la obra Souvenir Asiático (2018) del grupo de Teatro Los Animistas, en la cual se presentan seis relatos fragmentados de travesías migrantes que marcan el significado del cuerpo vulnerable y despojado como consecuencia de políticas que debilitan los derechos humanos dando paso a nuevas teatralidades (Diéguez, 2014; Neveux, 2013) corpo-políticas en la escena latinoamericana.
Femtosecond Laser Precision Engineering: From Micron, Submicron, to Nanoscale
Authors: Lin Zhenyuan , Hong Minghui
Published: December 2021

As a noncontact strategy with flexible tools and high efficiency, laser precision engineering is a significant advanced processing way for high-quality micro-/nanostructure fabrication, especially to achieve novel functional photoelectric structures and devices. For the microscale creation, several femtosecond laser fabrication methods, including multiphoton absorption, laser-induced plasma-assisted ablation, and incubation effect have been developed. Meanwhile, the femtosecond laser can be combined with microlens arrays and interference lithography techniques to achieve the structures in submicron scales. Down to nanoscale feature sizes, advanced processing strategies, such as near-field scanning optical microscope, atomic force microscope, and microsphere, are applied in femtosecond laser processing and the minimum nanostructure creation has been pushed down to ~25 nm due to near-field effect. The most fascinating femtosecond laser precision engineering is the possibility of large-area, high-throughput, and far-field nanofabrication. In combination with special strategies, including dual femtosecond laser beam irradiation, ~15 nm nanostructuring can be achieved directly on silicon surfaces in far field and in ambient air. The challenges and perspectives in the femtosecond laser precision engineering are also discussed.
The active lung microbiota landscape of COVID-19 patients through the metatranscriptome data analysis
Authors: Han Yang , Jia Zhilong , Shi Jinlong , Wang Weidong , He Kunlun
Published: December 2021

Introduction: With the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the interaction between the host and SARS-CoV-2 was widely studied. However, it is unclear whether and how SARS-CoV-2 infection affects lung microflora, which contribute to COVID-19 complications. Methods: Here, we analyzed the metatranscriptomic data of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of 19 COVID-19 patients and 23 healthy controls from 6 independent projects and detailed the active microbiota landscape in both healthy individuals and COVID-19 patients. Results: The infection of SARS-CoV-2 could deeply change the lung microbiota, evidenced by the α-diversity, β-diversity, and species composition analysis based on bacterial microbiota and virome. Pathogens (e.g., Klebsiella oxytoca causing pneumonia as well), immunomodulatory probiotics (e.g., lactic acid bacteria and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, a butyrate producer), and Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) were enriched in the COVID-19 group, suggesting a severe microbiota dysbiosis. The significant correlation between Rothia mucilaginosa, TMV, and SARS-CoV-2 revealed drastic inflammatory battles between the host, SARS-CoV-2, and other microbes in the lungs. Notably, TMV only existed in the COVID-19 group, while human respirovirus 3 (HRV 3) only existed in the healthy group. Our study provides insights into the active microbiota in the lungs of COVID-19 patients and would contribute to the understanding of the infection mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 and the treatment of the disease and complications. Conclusion: SARS-COV-2 infection deeply altered the lung microbiota of COVID-19 patients. The enrichment of several other pathogens, immunomodulatory probiotics (lactic acid or butyrate producers), and TMV in the COVID-19 group suggests a complex and active lung microbiota disorder.