bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary immature teratoma in the liver with growing teratoma syndrome and gliomatosis peritonei: a rare case report
Authors: Liu RenMing , Chen JianNing , Shao ChunKui , Cheng Na
Published: October 2022

Background

Primary liver immature teratoma is extremely rare and only 4 cases have been reported, let alone with growing teratoma syndrome (GTS) and/or gliomatosis peritonei (GP).

Case presentation

Here, we report a case of a 44-year-old female presenting with progressive abdominal distension and elevated serum alpha fetal protein (AFP) level. CT/MRI scans revealed a large cystic-solid mass in the right lobe of the liver, accompanied with implant or metastasis in the abdominal cavity. Pathologic examination at biopsy suggested immature teratoma. After 4 cycles of chemotherapy, an MRI showed a slight increase in tumor size. Therefore, surgical resection of the right lobe of the liver was performed. The final histological diagnosis was a mature teratoma (tumor size 28 cm × 14 cm × 13 cm), with no residual immature component, and the diagnosis of GTS was considered. The patient continued to receive 2 courses of postoperative chemotherapy. An abdominal CT scan revealed innumerable miliary nodules in bilateral adnexal areas 2 months after surgery. Histologically, large numbers of mature glia were observed, supporting the diagnosis of GP.

Conclusions

We report for the first time a case of primary liver immature teratoma with GTS and GP in an adult. Longer follow-up is needed to assess definitive efficacy.
Predictors of morbidity in revisional bariatric surgery and bariatric emergencies at an MBSAQIP-accredited community hospital
Authors: Tomey Daniel , Martinino Alessandro , Nguyen-Lee Joseph , Lopez Alfred , Shenwai Priya , Long Zhuoxin , Chai Jichong , Nayak Tapan , Wiseman James , Oviedo Rodolfo
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Bariatric surgery revisions and emergencies are associated with higher morbidity and mortality compared to primary bariatric surgery. No formal outcome benchmarks exist that distinguish MBSAQIP-accredited centers in the community from unaccredited institutions.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted on 53 bariatric surgery revisions and 61 bariatric surgical emergencies by a single surgeon at a high-volume community hospital accredited program from 2018 to 2020. Primary outcomes were complications or deaths occurring within 30-days of the index procedure. Secondary outcomes included operative time, leaks, surgical site occurrences (SSOs), and deep surgical site infections.

Results

There were no significant differences in the demographic characteristics of the study groups. Mean operative time was significantly longer for revisions as compared to emergency operations (149.5 vs. 89.4 min). Emergencies had higher surgical site infection (5.7% vs. 21.3%, p < 0.05) and surgical site occurrence (SSO) (1.9% vs. 29.5%, p < 0.05) rates compared to revisions. Logistic regression analysis identified several factors to be predictive of increased risk of morbidity: pre-operative albumin < 3.5 g/dL (p < 0.05), recent bariatric procedure within the last 30 days (p < 0.05), prior revisional bariatric surgery (p < 0.05), prior duodenal switch (p < 0.05), and pre-operative COPD (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery revisions and emergencies have similar morbidity and mortality, far exceeding those of the primary operation. Outcomes comparable to those reported by urban academic centers can be achieved in community hospital MBSAQIP-accredited centers.
Treatment of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy with an endothelin antagonist: ENDOTHELION (ENDOTHELin antagonist receptor in Ischemic Optic Neuropathy)—a multicentre randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Chiquet Christophe , Vignal Catherine , Gohier Philippe , Heron Emmanuel , Thuret Gilles , Rougier Marie Bénédicte , Lehmann Audrey , Flet Laurent , Quesada Jean-Louis , Roustit Mathieu , Milea Dan , Pepin Jean-Louis ,   For the ENDOTHELION group
Published: October 2022

Background

Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAAION) is a major cause of blindness in individuals over 50 years of age, with no available effective treatment. The oral dual endothelin receptor antagonist, bosentan, increases retinal optic nerve head blood flow in healthy humans and glaucoma patients. The objective of this trial is to assess the efficacy of bosentan administered at the acute stage in improving outcomes in NAAION patients.

Methods

ENDOTHELION (ENDOTHELin antagonist receptor in Ischemic Optic Neuropathy) is a phase III, interventional, prospective, multicentre, placebo-controlled randomised double-blind clinical trial. The primary outcome is change in the visual field mean deviation (MD) at 3 months (Humphrey 30-2 SITA standard programme). Secondary outcomes include MD and visual acuity changes up to 24 months, changes in peripapillary retinal nerve fibre and macular ganglion cell layer thickness in the affected eye, as measured by optical coherence tomography, rate of NAAION bilateralisation at 2 years, and quality-of-life. Patients over 50 years of age presenting with typical NAAION of recent onset (less than 21 days) are randomly assigned to either 125 mg oral bosentan or placebo, twice a day, during 8 weeks. Besides visits during the treatment phase, patients attend follow-up visits at 2, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. The inclusion of patients began in August 2015 at five French University hospital ophthalmology departments and two specialised ophthalmology centres. It is planned to include 86 patients in this trial. To date we have included 72 patients and 49 have completed the full follow-up process.

Discussion

An endothelin receptor antagonist is a potential approach to improving the anatomical and functional prognosis of patients with NAAION. This multicentre double-blind randomised controlled trial is an opportunity to assess (1) the effect of bosentan on the structure and function of the optic nerve in NAAION, at 3 months, (2) the effect of bosentan on the bilateralisation rate at 24 months and (3) the tolerance profile of bosentan in this population.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02377271. Registered on March 3, 2015.
Clusters in Behçet’s syndrome
Authors: İlgen Ufuk
Published: October 2022

Clustering is an important clinical feature of Behçet’s syndrome (BS) and may have pathogenetic and therapeutic implications. Recent and previous studies on BS phenotype differ substantially in terms of methodology. Correlation matrices and factor analyses were not efficient enough to uncover clusters. Clustering patterns may change according to demographic factors such as age and sex. Clustering patterns may also be profoundly influenced by the misperception of symptoms that are assumed to be secondary to BS, when, in fact, they represent manifestations of BD mimics. This can give rise to misleading conclusions and should be kept in mind when interpreting data obtained by clustering or other phenotype analyses of BS. A true geographical/racial variability in disease expression could be studied in a multinational consensus cohort. Pathogenetic studies in separate clusters of BS have still been lacking.
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on physical activity and mental health status of Iranian people
Authors: Saemi Esmaeel , Nobari Hadi , Badicu Georgian , Ghazizadeh Habibollah , Pashabadi Ali , Imani Fatemeh , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Silva Ana Filipa , Afrash Sana
Published: October 2022

Background

Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious disease caused by acute respiratory syndrome that can negatively impact physical activity as well as mental health of people in the world. Since Iran is one of the countries deeply affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on physical activity behaviours, as well as on mental health indicators among Iranian people.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 335 participants were included (155 males, mean age = 30.06 ± 14.58 years). Participants were selected through the convenience sampling from different parts of Iran mainly through virtual social networks and filled out an electronic questionnaire in the form of Google Form online survey measuring physical activity behaviours (The International Physical Activity Questionnaire; IPAQ; Short Form) and two mental health indicators–self-esteem (Rosenberg self-esteem scale) and social physical anxiety (7-items social physique anxiety scale). The questionnaires were provided to the participants in the spring of 2021 for 15 days and they were asked to answer it in two periods before the outbreak of coronavirus (winter 2020) and the period during the outbreak of coronavirus (spring 2021).

Results

The results showed that participants reported significant differences from before to during the pandemic in all three variables of physical activity (significant decreases), self-esteem (significant decreases), and social physical anxiety (significant increases) regardless of participants’ gender. The results of correlation test between changes in physical activity and changes in mental health indicators showed that COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted self-esteem and social physical anxiety. However, we have not found any significant association of physical activity’s change with social physical anxiety or self-esteem’s changes before and during the pandemic.

Conclusions

The findings of the present study indicate a detrimental effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the physical activity and mental health among Iranian people. Public policies aiming to buffer the negative impact on COVID-19 Iranians’ health are urgently needed.
Methodological quality of systematic reviews on treatments for Alzheimer’s disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhong Claire C. W. , Zhao Jinglun , Wong Charlene H. L. , Wu Irene X. Y. , Mao Chen , Yeung Jerry W. F. , Chung Vincent C. H.
Published: October 2022

Background

Carefully conducted systematic reviews (SRs) can provide reliable evidence on the effectiveness of treatment strategies for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Nevertheless, the reliability of SR results can be limited by methodological flaws. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the methodological quality of SRs on AD treatments, along with potentially relevant factors.

Methods

To identify eligible SRs on AD treatments, four databases including the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO were searched. The Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews 2 instrument was used for quality appraisal of SRs. Multivariable regression analyses were used to examine factors related to methodological quality.

Results

A total of 102 SRs were appraised. Four (3.90%) SRs were considered as high quality; 14 (13.7%), 48 (47.1%), and 36 (35.3%) were as moderate, low, and critically low quality, respectively. The following significant methodological limitations were identified: only 22.5% of SRs registered protocols a priori, 6.9% discussed the rationales of chosen study designs, 21.6% gave a list of excluded studies with reasons, and 23.5% documented funding sources of primary studies. Cochrane SRs (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 31.9, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.81–266.9) and SRs of pharmacological treatments (AOR: 3.96, 95%CI: 1.27–12.3) were related to the higher overall methodological quality of SRs.

Conclusion

Methodological quality of SRs on AD treatments is unsatisfactory, especially among non-Cochrane SRs and SRs of non-pharmacological interventions. Improvement in the following methodological domains requires particular attention due to poor performance: registering and publishing protocols a priori, justifying study design selection, providing a list of excluded studies, and reporting funding sources of primary studies.
Does neonatal ankyloglossia interfere in the growth of infants during the first 6 months of life? A case series nested in a cohort study
Authors: Batista Christyann Lima Campos , Pereira Alex Luiz Pozzobon
Published: October 2022

Background

Ankyloglossia is commonly reported as one of the major causes of breastfeeding difficulty. There is a lack of research on infant growth and latching performance with clinical measures.

Cases presentation

We describe a series of eight clinical cases (three female and five male infants) in a specialized breastfeeding center in a tertiary hospital in Northeast Brazil. The mothers were of mixed race and ranged from 13 to 41 years of age. Ankyloglossia was diagnosed within the first 48 hours after delivery. We measured the standards of growth, the mothers’ perception of breastfeeding, and a pain indicator, and performed an assessment of breastfeeding. The regularity of breastfeeding was maintained despite the early diagnosis of ankyloglossia. Growth indicators were not affected in the sixth month in any of the babies, with only one measuring below expectations in the third month, with no impact on general health.

Conclusions

In the cases reported in this paper, the infants overcame the initial difficulties in breastfeeding and maintained their normal growth course in the first 6 months of life.
The role of plasminogen activator inhibitor-2 in pneumococcal meningitis
Authors: Teske Nina C. , Engelen-Lee Joo-Yeon , Dyckhoff-Shen Susanne , Pfister Hans-Walter , Klein Matthias , van de Beek Diederik , Kirschning Carsten K. , Koedel Uwe , Brouwer Matthijs C.
Published: October 2022

Pneumococcal meningitis is associated with dysregulation of the coagulation cascade. Previously, we detected upregulation of cerebral plasminogen activator inhibitor-2 (PAI-2) mRNA expression during pneumococcal meningitis. Diverse functions have been ascribed to PAI-2, but its role remains unclear. We analyzed the function of SERPINB2 (coding for PAI-2) in patients with bacterial meningitis, in a well-established pneumococcal meningitis mouse model, usingSerpinb2knockout mice, and in vitro in wt and PAI-2-deficient bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). We measured PAI-2 in cerebrospinal fluid of patients, and performed functional, histopathological, protein and mRNA expression analyses in vivo and in vitro. We found a substantial increase of PAI-2 concentration in CSF of patients with pneumococcal meningitis, and up-regulation and increased release of PAI-2 in mice. PAI-2 deficiency was associated with increased mortality in murine pneumococcal meningitis and cerebral hemorrhages.Serpinb2−/−mice exhibited increased C5a levels, but decreased IL-10 levels in the brain during pneumococcal infection. Our in vitro experiments confirmed increased expression and release of PAI-2 by wt BMDM and decreased IL-10 liberation by PAI-2-deficient BMDM upon pneumococcal challenge. Our data show that PAI-2 is elevated during in pneumococcal meningitis in humans and mice. PAI-2 deficiency causes an inflammatory imbalance, resulting in increased brain pathology and mortality.
Short- versus long-course antibiotic therapy for sepsis: a post hoc analysis of the nationwide cohort study
Authors: Takahashi Nozomi , Imaeda Taro , Nakada Taka‑aki , Oami Takehiko , Abe Toshikazu , Yamao Yasuo , Nakagawa Satoshi , Ogura Hiroshi , Shime Nobuaki , Matsushima Asako , Fushimi Kiyohide
Published: October 2022

Background

The appropriate duration of antibiotic treatment in patients with bacterial sepsis remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association of a shorter course of antibiotics on 28-day mortality in comparison with a longer course using a national database in Japan.

Methods

We conducted a post hoc analysis from the retrospective observational study of patients with sepsis using a Japanese claims database from 2010 to 2017. The patient dataset was divided into short-course (≤ 7 days) and long-course (≥ 8 days) groups according to the duration of initial antibiotic administration. Subsequently, propensity score matching was performed to adjust the baseline imbalance between the two groups. The primary outcome was 28-day mortality. The secondary outcomes were re-initiated antibiotics at 3 and 7 days, during hospitalization, administration period, antibiotic-free days, and medical cost.

Results

After propensity score matching, 448,146 pairs were analyzed. The 28-day mortality was significantly lower in the short-course group (hazard ratio, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.92–0.95; P < 0.001), while the occurrence of re-initiated antibiotics at 3 and 7 days and during hospitalization were significantly higher in the short-course group (P < 0.001). Antibiotic-free days (median [IQR]) were significantly shorter in the long-course group (21 days [17 days, 23 days] vs. 17 days [14 days, 19 days], P < 0.001), and short-course administration contributed to a decrease in medical costs (coefficient $-212, 95% CI; − 223 to − 201, P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses showed a significant decrease in the 28-day mortality of the patients in the short-course group in patients of male sex (hazard ratio: 0.91, 95% CI; 0.89–0.93), community-onset sepsis (hazard ratio; 0.95, 95% CI; 0.93–0.98), abdominal infection (hazard ratio; 0.92, 95% CI; 0.88–0.97) and heart infection (hazard ratio; 0.74, 95% CI; 0.61–0.90), while a significant increase was observed in patients with non-community-onset sepsis (hazard ratio; 1.09, 95% CI; 1.06–1.12).

Conclusions

The 28-day mortality was significantly lower in the short-course group, even though there was a higher rate of re-initiated antibiotics in the short course.
Comparative Effectiveness of Multiple Exercise Interventions in the Treatment of Mental Health Disorders: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yu Qian , Wong Ka-Kit , Lei On-Kei , Nie Jinlei , Shi Qingde , Zou Liye , Kong Zhaowei
Published: October 2022

Background

The efficacy of exercise interventions in the treatment of mental health disorders is well known, but research is lacking on the most efficient exercise type for specific mental health disorders.

Objective

The present study aimed to compare and rank the effectiveness of various exercise types in the treatment of mental health disorders.

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL databases, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials as well as Google Scholar were searched up to December 2021. We performed pairwise and network meta-analyses as well as meta-regression analyses for mental health disorders in general and each type of mental health disorder, with alterations in symptom severity as the primary outcome.

Results

A total of 6456 participants from 117 randomized controlled trials were surveyed. The multimodal exercise (71%) had the highest probability of being the most efficient exercise for relieving depressive symptoms. While resistance exercise (60%) was more likely to be the most effective treatment for anxiety disorder, patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) benefited more from mind–body exercise (52%). Furthermore, resistance exercise (31%) and multimodal exercise (37%) had more beneficial effects in the treatment of the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, respectively. The length of intervention and exercise frequency independently moderated the effects of mind–body exercise on depressive (coefficient = 0.14,p = .03) and negative schizophrenia (coefficient = 0.96,p = .04) symptoms.

Conclusion

Multimodal exercise ranked best for treating depressive and negative schizophrenic symptoms, while resistance exercise seemed to be more beneficial for those with anxiety-related and positive schizophrenic symptoms. Mind–body exercise was recommended as the most promising exercise type in the treatment of PTSD. However, the findings should be treated with caution due to potential risk of bias in at least one dimension of assessment and low-to-moderate certainty of evidence.

Trial RegistrationThis systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO international prospective register of systematic reviews (CRD42022310237).
A modified candy-plug technique to occlude false lumen in aortic dissection
Authors: Palm Erik , Valtola Antti , Manninen Hannu , Saari Petri
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Aim of this technical note article is to introduce a modified, novel way to custom create a candy-plug (CP) device to endovascularly occlude false lumen. The technique is illustrated by a patient case with significant backflow to false lumen (FL). The patient had already undergone surgical repair of the ascending aorta, aortic arch and subsequent TEVAR procedure down to the ostium of the celiac trunk because of type A aortic dissection, but the descending thoracic aorta continued to dilate due to backflow to the FL from an uncovered tear at the level of the renal arteries.

Materials and methods

We modified a Gore Excluder 36–45 mm aortic extender (W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. Flagstaff, USA) endoprosthesis into a CP device that was subsequently positioned under local anesthesia into the FL of the distal descending thoracic aorta.

Results

In 1 month control the backflow to false lumen had ceased and the aorta had decreased in diameter from 69 to 66 mm, FL from 37 to 34 mm, true lumen (TL) remained the same 32 mm.

Conclusion

We describe a modified, effective candy-plug technique to occlude retrograde false lumen filling in aortic dissection.
A qualitative study of teachers’ and students’ experiences with a context-based curriculum unit designed in collaboration with STEM professionals and science educators
Authors: Kostøl Kristine Bakkemo , Remmen Kari Beate
Published: October 2022

Context-based science teaching aims to increase students’ motivation for science learning by demonstrating the personal and societal relevance of science knowledge and practices. However, designing and implementing context-based science teaching can be challenging for teachers. Moreover, context-based learning can be challenging for students as well. The purpose of this study is to describe the experiences of two science teachers and their 16-year-old students after implementing a context-based curriculum unit designed in collaboration with STEM professionals and facilitated by us – science educators and researchers. The research approach is informed by participatory methods involving collaboration between teachers and us as science educators, with the intention of supporting teachers in developing new teaching practices. Data were collected through three focus group interviews with two teachers and two groups of students (N = 9). The transcripts were analysed by inductive coding combined with a refined, literature-driven analysis. Besides positive influences on students’ learning, we found that the context-based curriculum provided an opportunity for the students to contribute to society, which served as another purpose for learning science than traditional science teaching. However, we discuss some challenges that may have implications for this type of collaboration between teachers, science educators, and STEM professionals: the importance of authenticity, teacher involvement in field trip planning, and misalignment between the curriculum unit and assessment.
A case of membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis associated with psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: Jabrane Marouane , Wakrim Abderrahim , Arrayhani Mohammed
Published: October 2022

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin; the hallmark of psoriasis is sustained inflammation that leads to uncontrolled keratinocyte proliferation and dysfunctional differentiation. Psoriasis shows clear autoimmune-related pathomechanisms, in which autoantigen-specific T cells contribute to the development, chronification, and overall course of the disease. Psoriasis is primarily a skin disease, but other internal organs may be involved; affliction of the joints is well established, but kidney involvement is yet to be universally agreed upon, although some recent studies have linked psoriasis to kidney disease and certain glomerular diseases including secondary renal amyloidosis, Ig A nephropathy, and membranous glomerulopathy.

Case presentation and conclusion

In this paper, we report a case of primary membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) with nephrotic impure syndrome in a psoriatic patient. The etiological investigation was negative with normal serum complement and ASO titers and were negative for HBV, HCV, HIV, and ANA. The patient improved on prednisolone and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. To our best of knowledge, cases of MPGN associated with psoriasis are rare and we would like to shed light on this association.
The incidence of enlarged vestibular aqueduct among hearing-impaired children: hospital-based tertiary care referral center
Authors: Elmoursy Mohamed Mohamed
Published: October 2022

Background

The most common radiologically detectable congenital inner ear anomaly is an enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA), which is associated with varying degrees of hearing loss and vestibular disorders. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the enlarged vestibular aqueduct incidence in hearing-impaired children sent to a tertiary care referral center, as well as to describe the audiologic pattern of EVA in those individuals.

Results

In a retrospective study of 3765 hearing-impaired children aged 1 to 10 years, 450 had EVA (11.95%). The EVA was more prevalent in female populations (54.4%). Head trauma was present in 26.7% of cases; a positive family history of EVA was present in 17.8%. The most common associated syndrome was Pendred syndrome. Progressive hearing loss was observed in 25.6% of patients, fluctuant hearing loss in 19.1%, and sudden hearing loss in 2% of the patients.

Conclusion

The most prevalent inner ear anomaly is an enlarged vestibular aqueduct, contributing to 11.9% of the research study. The most common presentation of EVA is hearing loss, which may be stationary, progressive, fluctuant, or sudden onset. CT scan is considered the gold standard radiological test to diagnose EVA in the sagittal or parasagittal plane. Head trauma should be avoided in children with EVA, and close follow-up is essential.
Slow down and frown to improve phishing detection
Authors: Nevin Patricia , Renaud Karen , Finney George
Published: October 2022

The move to ‘digital first’ has led to increasing dependence on online services, which increases susceptibility to security incidents. 1 Human behaviours can compromise organisational information security, with myriad perpetrators willing to exploit the human propensity to trust in order to achieve such compromises. 2 Phishing emails – which present recipients with an email containing a fraudulent link or a rogue attachment that can lead to the installation of malware or facilitate a ransomware attack – are a key attack vector. But encouraging users to slow down when processing emails can help combat this threat.
Special Issue: ‘North American Speculative Fiction and the Political’
Authors: Batzke Ina , Mittermeier Sabrina
Published: October 2022

Speculative fiction has always been political, showcasing diversity and interrogating both current events and larger questions of humanity and society. The articles in this Special Issue, coming out of the annual conference of the German Gesellschaft für Fantastikforschung in 2020, discuss a variety of different approaches.
Exploring racialization as technology for oppression in Stephanie Saulter’s Gemsigns (2013)
Authors: Cicholewski Alena
Published: October 2022

In Stephanie debut novel Gemsigns, a pandemic known as ‘the Syndrome’ has wiped out most of humanity. To cope with the sudden loss of most of their work force, bioengineering companies have modified human genes to create genetically altered workers, the so-called gems. For more than a hundred years, gems have been the property of the company that created them, but as the gems have become more and more advanced in their cognitive skills, calls for their emancipation arose, until gem enslavement is eventually abolished. This article reads Gemsigns as a warning against how bioengineering can be employed to reaffirm racialized hierarchies with racialization working as a technology for oppression. The enslavement of gems does not merely replace older forms of economic exploitation of oppressed groups but is firmly rooted in real-world power structures, thereby addressing the exceptional vulnerability of marginalized people to be commodified by technological progress instead of profiting from it. I further suggest that Gemsigns uses its post-abolition setting to illustrate that the struggles for equality of formerly enslaved people do not simply end with the official abolishment of enslavement.
Gender in Post-9/11 American Apocalyptic TV: Representations of Masculinity and Femininity at the End of the World, Eve Bennett (2019)
Authors: DeVries Ben
Published: October 2022

Review of: Gender in Post-9/11 American Apocalyptic TV: Representations of Masculinity and Femininity at the End of the World, Eve Bennett (2019)

New York: Bloomsbury Academic, 224 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-50133-108-4, h/bk, £110.00, p/bk, £29.99
Menace to Empire: Anticolonial Solidarities and the Transpacific Origins of the US Security State, Moon-Ho Jung (2022)
Authors: Srivastava Saloni
Published: October 2022

Review of: Menace to Empire: Anticolonial Solidarities and the Transpacific Origins of the US Security State, Moon-Ho Jung (2022)

Oakland, CA: University of California Press, 368 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-52026-748-0, h/bk, £24.00
El pensamiento social Latinoamericano sobre ciencia y tecnología: una visión ética de su trayectoria
Authors: Rodríguez Ramírez Daily
Published: October 2022

Comprender la naturaleza social de la ciencia y la tecnología resulta un elemento clave para direccionar el desarrollo científico-tecnológico de una nación en beneficio de las mayorías. Desde mediados del siglo XX científicos e intelectuales del continente latinoamericano se orientaron hacia una reflexión crítica y a la generación de conceptos adecuados localmente. La presente investigación analiza la dimensión ética implícita en el pensamiento social latinoamericano sobre ciencia y tecnología de las décadas que van de los años 60 hasta los 90 del siglo XX. En términos cronológicos se trabajan las dos etapas principales de este campo en la región: un período de sensibilización hacia los años 60 y 70 y un segundo período a partir de los 80 con la emergencia de estudios aplicados a Latinoamérica. Los principales cultores desarrollaron una reflexión y pensamiento crítico comprometido con la realidad de la región desde la defensa del papel prioritario del conocimiento, la ciencia, la tecnología y la innovación en los países del Tercer Mundo para alcanzar la liberación, la inclusión social y el bienestar de su población.
¿Razonamiento subrogativo como pensamiento basado en la representación o en la lógica?
Authors: Redmond Juan , Lopez-Orellana Rodrigo
Published: October 2022

El objetivo principal de nuestro artículo es realizar un análisis crítico de la noción de representación como fundamento de la generación de hipótesis en la modelización científica. En efecto, mostraremos las inconsistencias que genera este modo de fundamentar la generación de hipótesis en algunos de los más representativos enfoques sobre la representación científica. Dependiendo del enfoque y la definición de representación considerada, mostramos que estas inconsistencias van desde el uso de recursos no lógicos hasta cierta circularidad en las definiciones. La idea que subyace a toda está crítica es que surrogative reasoning debe encontrar sus fundamentos en la lógica misma.
Development of Technique for Vehicle Specific Off-Road Trafficability Assessment Using Soil Cone Index, Water Index, and Geospatial Data
Authors: Pundir Sunil Kumar , Garg Rahul Dev
Published: October 2022

Nowadays, the type of vehicles, either tracked or wheeled in the Army has increased considerably and every decision maker wants the current details of off-road trafficability for operation planning. Therefore, vehicle-specific trafficability maps are the need of the hour. Emphasis should
be given on soils capable of bearing the moving load of a vehicle and it is an important factor to be considered. Soil variability in spatial and temporal dimensions affects the assessment of off-road trafficability. Genetically, it is assumed that similar soil types behave similarly at a
regional scale to reduce the complexity due to its variability. Remolding Cone Index (RCI) of Soil is the indicator of its capability and for generic solution; its value can be related to gravimetric moisture of soil for getting a general idea. In this paper, a logics-based, new concept has
been introduced to rationalize the RCI values of these moist areas. Most significantly, moisture- and water-bound areas play an important role in the assessment of off-road trafficability. Therefore, to cover larger areas, a grid-based approach was taken as a base and, to get a preliminary
idea of prevailing moisture, Normalized Difference Water Index was also mapped. Every vehicle has fixed vehicle cone index based on its vehicular characteristics and can be related with RCI for trafficability purpose. This new technique will save time and field work and is immensely useful
for the trafficability assessment of any specific vehicle.
Managing Earth Hazards Using the Deep Reinforcement Learning Algorithm for the Industrial Internet of Things Network
Authors: Liu Weiwei
Published: October 2022

Wireless networks using resource management with the enormous number of Internet of Things (IoT) users is a critical problem in developing networks for the fifth generation. The primary aim of this research is to optimize the use of IoT network resources. Earth surface features can
be identified and their geo-biophysical properties estimated using radiation as the medium of interaction in remote sensing techniques (RST). Deep reinforcement learning (DRL) has significantly improved traditional resource management, which is challenging to model. The Industrial Internet
of Things (IIoT) network has to be carried out in real time with excess network resources. Conventional techniques have a significant challenge because of the extensive range and complexity of wireless networks. The DRL method has been used in several areas, including management and allocation
of resources, dynamic channel access, mobile downloading, unified edge computing, caching and communication, and fog radio access networks. DRL -IIoT is more successful than the Q-learning technique for a single agent. The design and analysis of the DRL -based approach in stationary base stations
to solve the typical assignment of resources issues have been mostly restricted. The DRL is used as a clustering technique to construct the primary model of the system with k-means. This article discusses optical and microwave sensors in RST techniques and applications, examines the areas
where there are gaps, and discusses Earth hazards. Furthermore, a comprehensive resource-based strengthening learning system is developed to ensure the best use of resources. Simulation results show that the suggested method efficiently (97.24%) allocates available spectrum, cache, and computer
resources to deep deterministic policy gradient benchmarks.
New Generation Hyperspectral Sensors DESIS and PRISMA Provide Improved Agricultural Crop Classifications
Authors: Aneece Itiya , Thenkabail Prasad S.
Published: October 2022

Using new remote sensing technology to study agricultural crops will support advances in food and water security. The recently launched, new generation spaceborne hyperspectral sensors, German DLR Earth Sensing Imaging Spectrometer (DESIS) and Italian PRecursore IperSpettrale della
Missione Applicativa (PRISMA), provide unprecedented data in hundreds of narrow spectral bands for the study of the Earth. Therefore, our overarching goal in this study was to use these data to explore advances that can be made in agricultural research. We selected PRISMA and DESIS images
during the 2020 growing season in California's Central Valley to study seven major crops. PRISMA and DESIS images were highly correlated (R 2of 0.9–0.95). Out of the 235 DESIS bands (400–1000 nm) and 238 PRISMA bands (400–2500 nm), 26 (11%) and 45 (19%) bands, respectively,
were optimal to study agricultural crops. These optimal bands provided crop type classification accuracies of 83–90%. Hyperspectral vegetation indices to estimate plant pigment content, stress, biomass, moisture, and cellulose/lignin content were also identified.
Phylogeographic patterns in attached and free-living marine macroalga Fucus vesiculosus (Fucaceae, Phaeophyceae) in the Baltic Sea
Authors: Preston Roxana , Seppä Perttu , Schagerström Ellen , Blomster Jaanika
Published: October 2022

Sequencing of a mitochondrial intergenic spacer and 23S subunit was used to investigate the phylogeographic patterns in Fucus vesiculosus. Samples originated from 21 sites spanning six subbasins of the Baltic Sea. We identify a putative ancestral mitochondrial haplotype that entered the Baltic Sea from the Atlantic, colonising extensively throughout the species’ distribution. The dominance of this haplotype is seen in the low overall haplotype diversity (H
d = 0.29). Moreover, there is indication of few spatially aggregated patterns in the deeper demographic time scales (F
ct = 0.040; F
st = 0.049). Tajima’s D (−0.685, p-value 0.297) and Fu’s F
S (0.267, p-value 0.591) showed no significant signals of extreme demographic changes. The Baltic Sea free-living Fucus is confirmed as F. vesiculosus or a closely related species. Haplotype diversities are comparable between forms (attached H
d = 0.306; free-living H
d = 0.268). The relatively short temporal scale for colonisation alongside low variance in the Fucus mitochondrial genome results in a rather panmictic structure across the Baltic Sea. Our data suggest that the mitochondrial intergenic spacer and 23S poorly describe the evolutionary dynamics of Fucus spp. in such a young, postglacial environment, yet this concatenated-barcode advances our understanding of the colonisation dynamics of F. vesiculosus over deeper demographic timescales.
Spatial and temporal variations of macroalgal vegetation in the north-western Red Sea
Authors: Rashedy Sarah H. , El-Mahdy Samia M. , El-Manawy Islam M. , Pereira Leonel
Published: October 2022

Macroalgae play a vital role in marine ecosystems, but human effects are threatening the composition and structure of algal communities. In the present investigation, the spatial and temporal variations of species composition, functional groups and percentage macroalgal cover were studied in relation to seasonal fluctuations of some physicochemical parameters, to determine the ecological status of macroalgae in coastal waters along the coast of the northwestern part of the Red Sea, from November 2020 to October 2021. Fifty-five species of macroalgae were collected and identified from the sites studied. Five functional groups of macroalgae were recognized. Among these were two turf-forming species, 34 species of upright fleshy algae, and three crustose algae. There was a large variation in the cover, as well as in the species richness and assemblage structure of the macroalgae in different sites and seasons. Seasonal changes, determined by environmental conditions, led to small changes in macroalgal cover at different sites, with the growth of some brown macroalgae suppressed by high sea temperatures, whereas some green and red macroalgae, increased in response to increasing temperature and salinity.
SYNTHESIS AND APPLICATION OF CHITOSAN HYDROXYAPATITE: A REVIEW
Authors:   Institute of Polymer Chemistry and Physics, Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences, Vokhidova Noira R. , Ergashev Kandiyor H. , Rashidova Sayyora Sh.
Published: October 2022

In this review, the research devoted to synthesising chitosan apatites, their biologically active properties, and their application in medical practice is analysed. The data are from articles published between 2001 and 2022 on the formation of calcium- and phosphorus-containing chitosan composites and the mechanism of their interaction.
HIERARCHICAL ZEOLITES MODIFIED WITH CHITOSAN – SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERISATION
Authors:   Adam Mickiewicz University, Faculty of Chemistry, Feliczak-Guzik Agnieszka , Musielak Ewelina , Nowak Izabela
Published: October 2022

This paper describes the synthesis of hierarchical zeolites based on a commercial FAU zeolite modified with chitosan. Additionally, the amount of silicon source added (tetraethyl orthosilicate) and the type of structuring agent used were modified during synthesis of the materials. The synthesised materials were characterised by the following methods: X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fouriertransform infrared spectroscopy, and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms. The obtained results confirmed the achievement of additional porosity in the synthesised materials. According to the adsorption experiments, the hierarchical zeolite-modified chitosan had a high adsorption capacity of 1.2 cm3 g-1.
EFFECT OF CHITOSAN-BASED SPRAYING ON THE QUALITY OF HIGHBUSH BLUEBERRIES (SUNRISE CULTIVAR)
Authors:   West Рomeranian Universitу of Technologу Szczecin, Deрartment of Horticulture, Figiel-Kroczyńska Monika , Ochmian Ireneusz , Krupa-Małkiewicz Marcelina
Published: October 2022

The consumption of highbush blueberries has been growing rapidly in recent years due to their taste and health-promoting qualities. Various solutions have been sought to obtain the highest quality fruit after harvest. In the era of eco-friendly products, it is important that the methods used are natural and ecological. For this purpose, chitosan (CH) was sprayed five times on highbush blueberry bushes before harvesting. Different molecular weights of CH (5, 12, 21, 50, 125, and 500 kDa) were used in this study. The physical and biochemical characteristics of the fruit were investigated. The antioxidant activity, microbial contaminants, and mycotoxins in fruit were also analysed. Application of CH affected the quality of highbush blueberries after harvest. The molecular weight of CH had a significant effect on the studied traits. The application of high-molecular-weight CH improved physical characteristics such as the average weight of 100 blueberries, firmness, and puncture. Furthermore, the blueberries had a more intense blue colour; were characterised by a higher content of l-ascorbic acid and polyphenols, especially anthocyanins; and did not contain mycotoxins. Spraying with CH can be recommended in the organic cultivation of highbush blueberries to obtain robust fruit with health-promoting qualities.
BIOLOGICAL BEHAVIOUR OF CHITOSAN ELECTROSPUN NANOFIBROUS MEMBRANES AFTER DIFFERENT NEUTRALISATION METHODS
Authors:   Biomedical Research Center, Sumy State University, Korniienko Viktoriia , Husak Yevheniia , Yanovska Anna , Altundal Şahin , Diedkova Kateryna , Samokhin Yevhen , Varava Yuliia , Holubnycha Viktoriia , Viter Roman , Pogorielov Maksym ,   Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology,   Institute of Atomic Physics and Spectroscopy, University of Latvia
Published: October 2022

Chitosan electrospun nanofibres were synthesised in two different trifluoroacetic acid (TFA)/dichloromethane (DCM) solvent ratios and then neutralised in aqueous and ethanol sodium-based solutions (NaOH and Na2CO3) to produce insoluble materials with enhanced biological properties for regenerative and tissue engineering applications. Structural, electronic, and optical properties and the swelling capacity of the prepared nanofibre membrane were studied by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and photoluminescence. Cell viability (with the U2OS cell line) and antibacterial properties (against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli) assays were used to assess the biomedical potential of the neutralised chitosan nanofibrous membranes. A 7:3 TFA/DCM ratio allows for an elaborate nanofibrous membrane with a more uniform fibre size distribution. Neutralisation in aqueous NaOH only maintains a partial fibrous structure. At the same time, neutralisation in NaOH ethanol-water maintains the structure during 1 month of degradation in phosphate-buffered saline and distilled water. All membranes demonstrate high biocompatibility, but neutralisation in ethanol solutions affects cell proliferation on materials made with 9:1 TFA/DCM. The prepared nanofibrous mats could constrain the growth of both gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms, but 7:3 TFA/DCM membranes inhibited bacterial growth more efficiently. Based on structural, degradation, and biological properties, 7:3 TFA/DCM chitosan nanofibrous membranes neutralised by 70% ethanol/30% aqueous NaOH exhibit potential for biomedical and tissue engineering applications.
EFFECT OF CHITOSAN AND META-TOPOLIN IN MICROPROPAGATION OF VACCINIUM CORYMBOSUM
Authors:   Department of Plant Genetics, Breeding and Biotechnology, West Pomeranian University of Technology Szczecin, Krupa-Małkiewicz Marcelina , Jurkiewicz Agata , Ochmian Ireneusz , Figiel-Kroczyńska Monika ,   Department of Horticulture, West Pomeranian University of Technology Szczecin
Published: October 2022

The culture medium is often optimised to improve growth and morphogenesis in vitro. The efficiency of chitosan (CH) and meta-topolin (mT) on in vitro growth of blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum) cv Liberty was investigated. The explants were grown on Woody Plant Medium (WPM) supplemented with mT at a concentration of 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 mg l-1 and WPM with chitosan with a molecular weight 3.33 kDa at 10, 20, and 40 ppm. WPM with the addition of 0.1 mg l-1 zeatin was used as a control. Among the tested combinations, the maximum mean shoot length (23.81 cm), the number of new shoots (1.34), fresh mass (42.29 g), and dry mass (14.24 g) were recorded on the control medium. The addition of lower concentrations of chitosan (10 and 20 ppm) to the WPM medium decreased shoot length (23%-24.5% of control), fresh mass (30%-40% of control), and dry mass (20%-29% of control). However, blueberries treated with 40 ppm chitosan had similar shoot lengths, but darker (112% of control) and greener (139% of control) leaves compared with the control. In contrast, mT had a negative effect on the studied traits of Liberty blueberries, regardless of the concentration.
CHITIN NANOFIBRES AS REINFORCEMENT FOR HYDROXYAPATITE-BASED COMPOSITE PREPARATION
Authors:   Institute of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology, Poznan University of Technology, Machałowski Tomasz ,   Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Materials Engineering and Technical Physics, Poznan University of Technology, Kozłowski Mikołaj , Kołodziejczak-Radzimska Agnieszka , Jakubowicz Jarosław , Jesionowski Teofil
Published: October 2022

The development and improvement of chitin applications have drawn special attention from the global scientific community due to their extraordinary features and abundance. In this study, β-chitin nanofibres were obtained using the ultrasonication treatment method. Then, hydroxyapatite/nanochitin (HAp/NCh) composites were prepared at different maturation times. In this case, mixtures of various amounts of β-chitin nanofibres (1%, 2%, and 5%) were added during the HAp precipitation approach. The prepared HAp/NCh materials were characterised with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The surface of prepared specimens was observed using scanning electron microscopy. The presence of nanofibres was confirmed by non-invasive backscattering with dynamic light scattering particle size analysis. Moreover, the synergic effect of chitin nanofibres on the mechanical resistance of HAp-based composite was investigated. The sample with 5% of chitin nanofibres exhibited about 10 times higher compression strength than the pure HAp. All these results essentially indicate that the prepared material can be a potential candidate for bone tissue engineering applications and further development.