bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Guidance Signage Design Influences Passengers’ Wayfinding Performance in Metro Stations: Case Study of a Virtual Reality Experiment
Authors: Hu Xiaojian , Xu Lurong
Published: June 2022

Well-designed guidance signage plays a significant role in the metro environment, ensuring that passengers can reach their destination quickly without anxiety and stress. At present, most metro stations in China use vertical guidance signage (hanging on the walls), which can easily cause misunderstandings in conveying information. Horizontal guidance signage (horizontally attached to the ground) with visual continuity has not yet been used. To explore the influence of different signage designs (vertical, horizontal, and mixed) on passengers’ wayfinding performance, this research utilized virtual reality (VR) technology to develop a VR environment based on a metro station in Nanjing, China. Thirty-six volunteers were randomly divided into six groups based on two variables (guidance signage design and density of passengers), and participated in the wayfinding experiment. During the experiment, three types of wayfinding performance measurements were collected and analyzed (subjective: the difference in the pressure of the wayfinding environment on the participants; objective: participants’ average speed, number of pauses, and the selection of infrastructure; systematic: ratings of affordance indicators). The results revealed that the mixed (vertical + horizontal) signage performed best, and different guidance signage designs affect passengers’ perception of environmental pressure, decision-making on the use of public infrastructures (stairs), and the number of pauses.
Ineffectiveness of carbon cap-and-trade market
Authors: Yan Yu , Lei Yiming , Tang Yuyang , Zhao Xufeng
Published: June 2022

Under neoclassical assumptions, this paper develops a model to illustrate the effects of government use of carbon allowances for carbon emission control. We find that control using the instrument of issuing long-term carbon allowances does not produce the same good results in the Decentralised Equilibrium as in the Planning Problem. Thus, while Coase's Theorem ensures that the Pareto optimum is maintained in an economy with multiple agents, it does not align the social development with the economic optimum of the planner. We believe this is due to the that the price of carbon allowances is determined by asset profiles of investors rather than externalities. The steady-state under the special pathway shows that consumption is determined by the rate of technological progress, the total amount of carbon dioxide at steady-state, the level of technology at which steady-state is reached and the total amount of carbon allowances remaining. The comparison with the optimal tax path reveals that the price of carbon allowances has increased too quickly, leading to excessive consumption of fossil fuels in the early stages.
“I would just like to see more acknowledgement, respect and services for the people who are in between, just Métis people”: recommendations by Métis women to improve access to health and social services in Victoria, Canada
Authors: Monchalin Renée , Auger Monique , Jones Carly , Paul Willow , Loppie Charlotte
Published: June 2022

This paper reports on recommendations made by Métis women, two-spirit, and gender diverse people for improving access to health and social services in Victoria, British Columbia. Expanding on research conducted in Toronto, Ontario, this study applied a conversational interview method to further explore and understand experiences of self-identifying Métis women, two-spirit, and gender diverse people ( n = 24) who access health and social services in Victoria. Participants provided wholistic and practical recommendations for improving access to health and social services, including (1) warm and inviting service spaces, (2) Métis-specific cultural safety training, (3) Indigenous specific clinic, (4) wholistic or integrative service delivery, and (5) non-judgemental service providers. This research demonstrates that Métis women, two-spirit and gender diverse community members hold practical solutions for improving access to health and social services for the larger Métis community.
The influence of alloying elements on tribological properties of Fe-Cu-C based metal matrix composite bearing materials produced by powder metallurgy
Authors: Yavuz Hasan İsmail , Eyri Büşra , Yamanoğlu Rıdvan , Feyzullahoğlu Erol
Published: June 2022

Bearing materials are used in many industrial applications such as automotive, marine, aviation and hydroelectric power plants. Powder metallurgy is preferred because it is economically more advantageous in the production of this type of material. The main requirement in bearing materials is high tribological properties at a low cost. Therefore, the lower coefficient of friction and wear rate in the bearing materials are among the desired properties. In this regard, the tribological properties and other mechanical, physical, and microstructural properties of the produced samples were investigated in this study. Copper and graphite powder with 5 wt.% Mo, Ni, Al, Cr, and W was added to the base alloy of iron. After the production, density measurements, microstructural characterizations, hardness measurements, and dry friction wear tests were carried out on the samples. Analyzing the results, it was found that the highest density value was achieved in the base alloy. Furthermore, a density of over 90% was achieved in all samples. On the other hand, predominantly ferrite and pearlite phases were observed in the microstructure. When the hardness results were examined, it was determined that the Cr added alloys had maximum hardness. In the evaluation of tribological properties, it was shown that Ni alloy had the lowest friction coefficient and Al alloy had the highest friction coefficient. Considering the wear rates, it was seen that the alloy with the lowest wear rate was Cr and the highest wear rate was the alloy with Al additives.
Capitalizing on Heritage: St. Augustine, Florida, and the Landscape of American Racial Ideology
Authors: Petersen Camille
Published: June 2022

Drawing on Black and Indigenous intellectual traditions, this article applies racial capitalism and settler colonialism as twin frameworks essential for understanding gentrification in a city whose growth is predicated on historical storytelling. Challenging the hegemony of neoliberal and colorblind urbanisms, it is argued that the longue durée world system of racism is always already structuring capitalism and the urban process. The case study of St. Augustine, Florida, shows the role of White nationalist place-making in consolidating the material and ideological structures of racial capitalism and settler colonialism, past and present. Using ethnographic and textual data, I show how what I call the “heritage industrial complex” produces and is produced by racist ideology, promoting diversity and inclusion in historical storytelling about “the oldest city” at the same time as urban processes of gentrification, redevelopment, and disenfranchisement characterize contemporary race relations in the city and the state. Although we have a firm understanding of spatialized inequalities, bringing together the sociology of race and ethnicity’s attention to ideology with urban sociology’s emphasis on the city and landscape can help us understand how race is constitutive of the capitalist project.
Gene expression profile of epithelial–mesenchymal transition in tumours of patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer: the influence of COPD
Authors: Xia Yingchen , Zha Jianhua , Curull Víctor , Sánchez-Font Albert , Guitart Maria , Rodríguez-Fuster Alberto , Aguiló Rafael , Barreiro Esther
Published: June 2022

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is involved in the pathophysiology of lung cancer (LC) and COPD, and the latter is an important risk factor for LC. We hypothesised that the EMT gene expression profile and signalling cascade may differ in LC patients with COPD from those with no respiratory diseases. In lung tumour specimens obtained through video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery from LC (n=20, control group) and LC-COPD patients (n=30), gene expression (quantitative real-time PCR amplification) of EMT markersSMAD3,SMAD4,ZEB2,TWIST1,SNAI1,ICAM1,VIM,CDH2,MMP1andMMP9was detected. In lung tumours of LC-COPD compared to LC patients, gene expression ofSMAD3,SMAD4,ZEB2andCDH2significantly declined, while no significant differences were detected for the other analysed markers. A significant correlation was found between pack-years (smoking burden) andSMAD3gene expression among LC-COPD patients. LC-COPD patients exhibited mild-to-moderate airway obstruction and a significant reduction in diffusion capacity compared to LC patients. In lung tumour samples of patients with COPD, several markers of EMT expression, namelySMAD3,SMAD4,ZEB2andCDH2, were differentially expressed suggesting that these markers are likely to play a role in the regulation of EMT in patients with this respiratory disease. Cigarette smoke did not seem to influence the expression of EMT markers in this study. These results have potential clinical implications in the management of patients with LC, particularly in those with underlying respiratory diseases.
Symptomatic smokers without COPD have physiological changes heralding the development of COPD
Authors: Bazzan Erica , Semenzato Umberto , Turato Graziella , Biondini Davide , Cubero Pablo , Marin-Oto Marta , Forner Marta , Tinè Mariaenrica , Casara Alvise , Baraldo Simonetta , Spagnolo Paolo , Marin Jose M. , Saetta Marina , Cosio Manuel G.
Published: June 2022

Background

COPD is a major health problem, mainly due to cigarette smoking. Most studies in COPD are dedicated to fully developed COPD in older subjects, even though development of COPD may start soon after smoking initiation. Therefore, there is a need to diagnose this “early disease” by detecting the initial events responsible for ultimate development of COPD.

Methods

Measurement of maximum mid expiratory flow between 25 and 75% of vital capacity (MMEF) in a routine spirometry, which detects small airways disease, was used to investigate if MMEF abnormalities in smokers without COPD (noCOPD) would relate to respiratory symptoms and identify smokers that might progress to COPD. For this purpose we studied 511 smokers, 302 COPD and 209 noCOPD, followed long term with spirometry including MMEF, diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO), 6-min walk test (6MWT), Medical Research Council Dyspnoea Scale and COPD Assessment Test. Three spirometries V1,V2 and V3 (5±2.5 and 10±4 years apart from V1) were performed to assess functional decline and development of COPD.

Results

65% of noCOPD had an abnormal MMEF (<80%) and 38% an abnormalDLCO. The NoCOPD with MMEF <80% group performed worse in the 6MWT (p=0.01), was more dyspnoeic (p=0.01) and had higher prevalence of chronic bronchitis than the noCOPD with MMEF>80% group (p=0.04). 21% of noCOPD with MMEF <80% and 2.7% with MMEF>80% developed COPD by V3 (p=0.0004).

Conclusions

The MMEF, a functional test available in a routine spirometry, can detect early lung abnormalities and identify the subset of symptomatic smokers with pathological changes that might lead to COPD.
Medical complications of obesity: heightened importance in a COVID era
Authors: Prendergast Heather , Tyo Carissa , Colbert Christopher , Kelley Morgan , Pobee Ruth
Published: June 2022

Background

Obesity is a major public health problem associated with significant medical complications.

Main body

This review examines 8 primary diseases: type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dementia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, dyslipidemia, cancer, and their manifestations in obese patients. A total of 39 articles were used for this review. The authors conducted limited review, searching PubMed and Google Scholar databases using a combination of key words “COVID-19” or “SARS-COV2”, “type 2 diabetes”, “hypertension”, “dementia”, “non-alcoholic fatty liver disease”, “polycystic ovarian syndrome”, “dyslipidemia”, “cancer”, and “obesity”. No specific date limitation was used. Obesity exacerbates many medical conditions and has recently been identified as an independent risk factor for COVID-19 severity. This sets obesity at the pinnacle of all disease complications. The long-term impact of obesity ranges from financial burden on the health system, lower life expectancy, and reduced survival rates.

Conclusion

Obesity is an important modifiable risk factor. There is the need for healthcare providers to understand the medical complications associated with obesity to optimize patient care.
Quality of surgical management of placenta accreta spectrum in a tertiary center in Sri Lanka: baseline study for quality improvement project: problems and solutions
Authors: Wijesinghe Vindya , Rishard Mohamed , Srisanjeevan Sriskanthan
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is associated with a multitude of maternal and fetal complications. Events related to its management have resulted in significant psychological morbidity, with lifelong consequences which warrant continuous support to cope with their lives. The objective of the study is to highlight the importance of multidisciplinary holistic care and explore room for improvement in the provision of care for women with PAS.

Methods

Our study was conducted on deliveries complicated with PAS from January 2019 to June 2021. 27 women were diagnosed with PAS during this period and received treatment. Impact of life event scale- revised (IES-R) and short form health survey-36(SF-36) questionnaires were administered to assess the impact of PAS on their lives. In depth interviews were conducted with the women. A multidisciplinary team meeting was later conducted to formulate a comprehensive care plan for women with PAS.

Results

The response rate was 96.2%. Mean age of the sample is 34.1 years (SD 4.3). Interval to current pregnancy varies from 0.6 years to 10 years with mean of 4.6 years. Mean gestational age of diagnosis of PAS was 25.4(SD 6.7) weeks. The care bundle provided for women with PAS was evaluated in all cases.

Surgery was conducted electively in 82% of patients. Blood transfusions were noted in 85%. Mean pre-operative stay was 9.5 days (SD 8.3) and mean post-operative stay was 8.8 days (SD 8). Total hospital stay ranged from 6 to 48 days (mean 19.5 days, SD 11.4).

IES-R scores were significant in 4/26 patients. There was no correlation with the interval from the surgery with any of the subscales or with the total scores. The lapsed time after the surgery had a significant correlation with physical functioning and pain domains of the SF-36 questionnaire.

Description of the experience, loss of femininity with loss of the uterus, concerns and fears about the future and measures to improve the quality of care were the themes identified and described.

A multidisciplinary team meeting, consisting of consultant obstetricians performing surgery for PAS, anesthetists, hematologist, transfusion medicine specialist, urologist, physiotherapist, nutritionist and nursing officers from ICU and wards, was held and their contributions helped to map out a definitive care plan.

Conclusions

PAS is associated with long term physical and psychological morbidity. Continuous support through quarterly clinic visits and telephone conversations may alleviate the psychological trauma. However, some physical disabilities may be lifelong and life changing. Importance of reducing primary caesarean section and promoting trial of labour after caesarean delivery should be promoted among patients and caregivers.
Effectiveness of a combined problem-based learning and flipped classroom teaching method in ophthalmic clinical skill training
Authors: Wang Anan , Xiao Ruihan , Zhang Chun , Yuan Lin , Lin Nana , Yan Lu , Wang Yaohua , Yu Jinhai , Huang Qin , Gan Puying , Xiong Chao , Xu Qihua , Liao Hongfei
Published: June 2022

Background

Previous studies have primarily implemented problem-based learning (PBL) or flipped classroom (FC) teaching models in different majors; however, research on the combined PBL-FC teaching method in clinical medicine is scarce. Therefore, we investigated the combined PBL-FC teaching method in teaching ocular trauma on students’ competencies.

Method

About 75 ophthalmology postgraduates were randomly divided into PBL-FC and traditional teaching groups. Students completed pre-and post-class theoretical examinations, skills evaluation, learning ability scales, and feedback questionnaires.

Results

Both groups showed significantly higher theoretical scores and improved learning ability. Feedback questionnaire scores of the PBL-FC group’s postgraduates without clinical experience were significantly higher than the traditional group’s for some items; there was no difference between groups in postgraduates with clinical experience. PBL-FC group’s pre-class preparation time was significantly longer than the traditional group’s, but the post-class review time was significantly shorter. PBL-FC group’s post-class theoretical performance was significantly higher than the traditional group’s. There was no statistical difference between the groups regarding skill operation. Among postgraduates without clinical experience, the PBL-FC group’s skill operation performance was significantly higher than the traditional group’s; for postgraduates with clinical experience, the traditional group’s skill operation performance was significantly higher than the PBL-FC group’s.

Conclusions

PBL-FC teaching is better for students without clinical experience or knowledge of ophthalmic diseases. Meanwhile, traditional teaching is a good choice for students with clinical experience who need more relevant knowledge.
Interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral perioperative care model in cardiac surgery: implementation in the setting of minimally invasive heart valve surgery (INCREASE)—study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Klotz Susanne G. R. , Ketels Gesche , Behrendt Christian A. , König Hans-Helmut , Kohlmann Sebastian , Löwe Bernd , Petersen Johannes , Stock Sina , Vettorazzi Eik , Zapf Antonia , Zastrow Inke , Zöllner Christian , Reichenspurner Hermann , Girdauskas Evaldas
Published: June 2022

Background

Valvular heart diseases are frequent and increasing in prevalence. Minimally invasive heart valve surgery embedded in an interdisciplinary enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program may have potential benefits with regard to reduced length of stay and improved patient reported outcomes. However, no prospective randomized data exist regarding the superiority of ERAS program for the patients’ outcome.

Methods

We aim to randomize (1:1) a total of 186 eligible patients with minimally invasive heart valve surgery to an ERAS program vs. standard treatment at two centers including the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany, and the University Hospital Augsburg, Germany. The intervention is composed out of pre-, peri-, and postoperative components. The preoperative protocol aims at better preparation for the operation with regard to physical activity, nutrition, and psychological preparedness. Intraoperative anesthesiologic and surgical management are trimmed to enable an early extubation. Patients will be transferred to a specialized postoperative anesthesia care unit, where first mobilization occurs 3 h after surgery. Transfer to low care ward will be at the next day and discharge at the fifth day. Participants in the control group will receive treatment as usual. Primary endpoints include functional discharge at discharge and duration of in-hospital care during the first 12 months after index surgery. Secondary outcomes include health-related quality of life, health literacy, and level of physical activity.

Discussion

This is the first randomized controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of an ERAS process after minimally invasive heart valve surgery. Interprofessional approach is the key factor of the ERAS process and includes in particular surgical, anesthesiological, physiotherapeutic, advanced nursing, and psychosocial components. A clinical implication guideline will be developed facilitating the adoption of ERAS model in other heart teams.

Trial registration

The study has been registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04977362 assigned July 27, 2021).
Extracellular matrix protein turnover markers are associated with axial spondyloarthritis—a comparison with postpartum women and other non-axial spondyloarthritis controls with or without back pain
Authors: Port Helena , Nielsen Signe Holm , Madsen Sofie Falkenløve , Bay-Jensen Anne-Christine , Karsdal Morten , Seven Sengül , Sørensen Inge Juul , Morsel-Carlsen Lone , Østergaard Mikkel , Pedersen Susanne Juhl
Published: June 2022

Background

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a common chronic inflammatory disease, associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling of the cartilage, bone, and connective tissues. The primary symptom of axSpA is back pain, caused by inflammation. However, there is a medical need to truly identify patients with axSpA from other subjects with buttock or low back pain attributable to other reasons. We aimed to investigate circulating biomarkers of ECM/inflammation (MMP-degraded type I (C1M), II (C2M, T2CM), III (C3M), IV (C4M), VI (C6M), and X (C10C, COL10NC) collagens, CRPM, PROM and VICM) and ECM formation of type II (PRO-C2), III (PRO-C3), IV (PRO-C4), and VI (PRO-C6) collagens as potential biomarkers to identify patients with axSpA.

Methods

We measured biomarkers from a cross-sectional study with 204 participants by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The study included axSpA patients (N = 41), women with postpartum buttock/pelvic pain (N = 46), disc herniation (N = 25), and a group of healthy subjects (including women without postpartum pelvic pain (N = 14), subjects with various types of physical strain (cleaning staff (N = 26) long-distance runners (N = 23)), and healthy men (N = 29)). Differences between the groups were calculated by ANCOVA and AUC, while Spearman’s correlations were performed with ECM biomarkers and clinical scores.

Results

Patients with axSpA expressed significantly higher levels of C1M, C4M, and VICM (p < 0.05-p < 0.0001) compared to all the non-axSpA control groups. Further, C6M and PRO-C4 were significantly higher in patients with axSpA (both p < 0.0001) compared to women with postpartum pelvic pain and healthy subjects, whereas PRO-C3 was significantly lower compared to healthy subjects (p = 0.01). The best ECM common biomarker to differentiate between axSpA and the non-axSpA control groups was PRO-C4 (AUC ≥ 0.75; specificity ≥ 0.79, sensitivity = 0.65). Mild correlations were observed between collagen turnover and inflammation biomarkers and CRP and MRI (ρ ≥ 0.3; p < 0.05-p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Biomarkers of type I, IV, and VI collagen and biomarkers of inflammation showed an altered turnover in patients with axSpA compared with the non-axSpA control groups. Such biomarkers may be useful in combination with MRI or independently to separate patients with axSpA from other back pain conditions.
Absence of the Z-disc protein α-actinin-3 impairs the mechanical stability of Actn3KO mouse fast-twitch muscle fibres without altering their contractile properties or twitch kinetics
Authors: Haug Michael , Reischl Barbara , Nübler Stefanie , Kiriaev Leonit , Mázala Davi A. G. , Houweling Peter J. , North Kathryn N. , Friedrich Oliver , Head Stewart I.
Published: June 2022

Background

A common polymorphism (R577X) in the ACTN3 gene results in the complete absence of the Z-disc protein α-actinin-3 from fast-twitch muscle fibres in ~ 16% of the world’s population. This single gene polymorphism has been subject to strong positive selection pressure during recent human evolution. Previously, using an Actn3KO mouse model, we have shown in fast-twitch muscles, eccentric contractions at L0 + 20% stretch did not cause eccentric damage. In contrast, L0 + 30% stretch produced a significant ~ 40% deficit in maximum force; here, we use isolated single fast-twitch skeletal muscle fibres from the Actn3KO mouse to investigate the mechanism underlying this.

Methods

Single fast-twitch fibres are separated from the intact muscle by a collagenase digest procedure. We use label-free second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging, ultra-fast video microscopy and skinned fibre measurements from our MyoRobot automated biomechatronics system to study the morphology, visco-elasticity, force production and mechanical strength of single fibres from the Actn3KO mouse. Data are presented as means ± SD and tested for significance using ANOVA.

Results

We show that the absence of α-actinin-3 does not affect the visco-elastic properties or myofibrillar force production. Eccentric contractions demonstrated that chemically skinned Actn3KO fibres are mechanically weaker being prone to breakage when eccentrically stretched. Furthermore, SHG images reveal disruptions in the myofibrillar alignment of Actn3KO fast-twitch fibres with an increase in Y-shaped myofibrillar branching.

Conclusions

The absence of α-actinin-3 from the Z-disc in fast-twitch fibres disrupts the organisation of the myofibrillar proteins, leading to structural weakness. This provides a mechanistic explanation for our earlier findings that in vitro intact Actn3KO fast-twitch muscles are significantly damaged by L0 + 30%, but not L0 + 20%, eccentric contraction strains. Our study also provides a possible mechanistic explanation as to why α-actinin-3-deficient humans have been reported to have a faster decline in muscle function with increasing age, that is, as sarcopenia reduces muscle mass and force output, the eccentric stress on the remaining functional α-actinin-3 deficient fibres will be increased, resulting in fibre breakages.
Alzheimer’s disease pattern derived from relative cerebral flow as an alternative for the metabolic pattern using SSM/PCA
Authors: Peretti Débora E. , Vállez García David , Renken Remco J. , Reesink Fransje E. , Doorduin Janine , de Jong Bauke M. , De Deyn Peter P. , Dierckx Rudi A. J. O. , Boellaard Ronald
Published: June 2022

Background

2-Deoxy-2-[18F]fluoroglucose (FDG) PET is an important tool for the identification of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients through the characteristic neurodegeneration pattern that these patients present. Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) images derived from dynamic 11C-labelled Pittsburgh Compound B (PIB) have been shown to present a similar pattern as FDG. Moreover, multivariate analysis techniques, such as scaled subprofile modelling using principal component analysis (SSM/PCA), can be used to generate disease-specific patterns (DP) that may aid in the classification of subjects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare rCBF AD-DPs with FDG AD-DP and their respective performances. Therefore, 52 subjects were included in this study. Fifteen AD and 16 healthy control subjects were used to generate four AD-DP: one based on relative cerebral trace blood (R1), two based on time-weighted average of initial frame intervals (ePIB), and one based on FDG images. Furthermore, 21 subjects diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment were tested against these AD-DPs.

Results

In general, the rCBF and FDG AD-DPs were characterized by a reduction in cortical frontal, temporal, and parietal lobes. FDG and rCBF methods presented similar score distribution.

Conclusion

rCBF images may provide an alternative for FDG PET scans for the identification of AD patients through SSM/PCA.
Gendered asymmetry of access to knowledge for brucellosis control among pastoral communities in north-west Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Babo Stephane A. Y. , Fokou Gilbert , Yapi Richard B. , Mathew Coletha , Dayoro Arnaud K. , Kazwala Rudovick R. , Bonfoh Bassirou
Published: June 2022

Brucellosis is an infectious zoonotic disease considered as a threat to public health and pastoralist livelihoods. Symptoms of the disease can lead to gender-specific ailments such as abortions in women and orchitis in men. Pastoralists and their families are at high risk of contracting the disease. Access to health information reinforces existing knowledge and contributes to disease prevention. However, in developing countries, interventions for knowledge sharing on zoonotic diseases predominantly target men. This study aimed to describe mechanisms of knowledge production and transfer on brucellosis according to gender, by assessing the way knowledge affects behaviours of pastoral communities. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among a pastoral community (PC) of the Folon region in north-west Côte d’Ivoire. The study included transhumant pastoralists, sedentary livestock owners, shepherds and their wives. By using mixed methods, 26 semi-structured interviews were conducted, and 320 questionnaires were completed. Statistical analysis with chi-square (χ2) comparison tests was performed to compare variables between men and women. Findings were interpreted through the concept of specialisation of the social exclusion theory. We found that gender influences access to information on brucellosis and transfer of knowledge on brucellosis appeared gender-biased, especially from veterinarians towards men in the community. The social labour division and interventions of veterinarians through awareness reinforce the knowledge gap on brucellosis between men and women. Men and women consume raw milk, whilst only men in general handle animal discharges with bare hands. To improve the control of brucellosis, knowledge on best practice should be shared with pastoral communities using the One Health approach that encourages mutual learning. Innovative strategies based on gender daily tasks such as safe dairy processing by women and safe animal husbandry to expand their herd for men can be the entry point for the prevention of brucellosis.
Association of infant and child health characteristics with the hazard of any medical condition or disability in Australian children
Authors: Ahmad Kabir , Keramat Syed Afroz , Sathi Nusrat Jahan , Kabir Enamul , Khanam Rasheda
Published: June 2022

Background

The incidence of any medical condition (e.g., sight, hearing, and speech problems, blackouts, chronic pain etc.) or disability (e.g., limited use of arms or fingers, legs, and feet, or other physical long-term health condition limiting everyday activities etc.) have been increasing among Australian children in recent decades.

Objectives

This study assessed whether infant or child health characteristics might be predictors of subsequent medical conditions or disabilities in children in the first 15 years of life.

Methods

Using time to event data of 5107 children, obtained from the Birth cohort of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, the study estimated the incidence of any medical condition or disability using the survival analysis technique. This study followed up the children from birth to 14 or 15 years of age (2004–2018) and assessed the association of infant and child health characteristics (birthweight, gestational age, use of intensive care unit or ventilator during their neonatal age and obesity) with hazard of any medical condition or disability using the random effect parametric survival regression model. The infant characteristics were measured in the Wave 1 while the children were aged 0/1 year and obesity characteristics were measured longitudinally over all the waves up to 14/15 years of age.

Results

The hazard rate of any medical condition or disability for all participants was 26.13 per 1000 person-years among children in Australia. This hazard incidence rate was higher among low birthweight (39.07) children compared to the children of normal birthweight (24.89) children. The hazard rate also higher among obese (34.37) children compared to the normal weight children (24.82) and among those who had received after-birth ventilation or intensive care unit emergency services (36.87) compared to those who have not received these services (24.20). The parametric panel regression model also suggests that children with low birthweight were 1.43 times (Hazard Ratio: 1.43, 95% Confidence Interval: 1.05–1.94) more likely to have any medical condition or disability than children with normal birthweight. The time to event analyses also revealed that being recipient of after-birth emergencies (HR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.23–1.75), being male children (HR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.14–1.48) or being obese (HR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.07–1.79) significantly increased the likelihood of the incidence of a medical condition or disability among children. The regression model was adjusted for socio-demographic characteristics of children and mothers..

Conclusions

The study findings suggest that infants with low birth weight, hospital emergency service use and children with obesity would benefit from additional health care monitoring to minimize the risk of any medical condition or disability.
Distinguishing delusional beliefs from overvalued ideas in Anorexia Nervosa: An exploratory pilot study
Authors: Barton Rachel , Aouad Phillip , Hay Phillipa , Buckett Geoffrey , Russell Janice , Sheridan Margaret , Brakoulias Vlasios , Touyz Stephen
Published: June 2022

Background

Characterised by the belief that more weight needs to be lost—despite emaciation, failing organs, medical instability and prospect of death—Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is a condition in which irrational, and highly-skewed, beliefs can be of delusional intensity. However, the nexus between delusion and rational awareness and how this is related to body image acceptance and perception has yet to be examined in AN. The current study aims to investigate the relationship between body dissatisfaction and beliefs of delusional intensity in an adult AN inpatient sample.

Methods

Twenty-one adults (n(women) = 20; n(men) = 1), with a mean age of 27 years old (SD = 10), presenting for inpatient treatment for AN (ranging in severity from mild to severe; M(Body Mass Index) = 17 kg/m2; M(Length of Stay) = 22 days) participated in the study. Participants’ dominant beliefs (related to AN) and level of insight (delusional; overvalued idea; or fair insight) were measured using either the Brown Assessment of Beliefs Scale (BABS) or the Nepean Beliefs Scale (NBS). The degree of body dissatisfaction was determined by examining the discrepancy between “perceived” and “ideal” body perception. To determine subjective and objective beliefs both the Contour Drawing Rating Scale (subjective) and computerised Body Image Assessment Software (objective) were used.

Results

Almost one quarter (23.7%; n = 5) of participants appeared to have beliefs of delusional intensity related to their body shape (M = 27.4; SD = 23.03). Although a positive linear trend was indicated, there were no significant differences in body dissatisfaction scores between level-of-insight. Individuals whose belief was categorised as delusional were more likely to hold a negative affective body image state based on their ratings on the body image state survey when compared to the group who had good/fair insight (95% CI [0.53, 18.19]; p = 0.03).

Conclusions

The current exploratory pilot study concurs with others in the published literature that demonstrate that approximately 25 percent of participants with AN may have delusional ideas. The implications for treatment in similar samples warrant attention. Future research should also seek to understand the clinical significance of this delusional categorisation, the benefits of its utility in this population, and its relation to the severity of AN or stage of illness.
Association between anthropometric criteria and body composition among children aged 6–59 months with severe acute malnutrition: a cross-sectional assessment from India
Authors: Sinha Rajesh Kumar , Kumar Praveen , Daniel Abner , Shah Hemang , Sriswan Raja , Kokane Arun , Mohapatra Aditya , Kashyap Vivek , Goel Anil Kumar , Kumar Virendra , Kiran Asha , Arlappa N. , Joshi Ankur , Nayak Rashmi Ranjan , Sayal Shikha , de Wagt Arjan
Published: June 2022

A multicentric study is being conducted in which children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) aged 6–59 months are identified with only weight-for-height z-score (WHZ) < − 3 criteria. The present study aimed to assess associations of anthropometric parameters and body composition parameters, to improve treatment of SAM. We conducted a cross-section assessment using the enrolment data of children who participated in a multi-centric longitudinal controlled study from five Indian states. Fat-free mass (FFM) and fat mass (FM) were determined by bio-electrical impedance analysis (BIA). Six hundred fifty-nine children were enrolled in the study using WHZ < -3 criteria. Available data shows that WHZ, WAZ and BMIZ were significantly associated with FFMI while MUACZ was significantly associated with both FMI and FFMI. Children with both severe wasting and severe stunting had significantly lower FFMI compared to those who were only severely wasted. All forms of anthropometric deficits appear to adversely impact FFM and FM.

Trial registration

The study is registered with Clinical Trial Registration of India (Registration No.: CTRI/2020/09/028013 dated 24/09/2020).
Safety and efficiency of stem cell therapy for COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Minghe , Yan Xinchun , Shi Minghui , Li Ruihang , Pi Ziwei , Ren Xiangying , Wang Yongbo , Yan Siyu , Wang Yunyun , Jin Yinghui , Wang Xinghuan
Published: June 2022

Background

With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing, various treatments have become widely practiced. Stem cells have a wide range of applications in the treatment of lung diseases and have therefore been experimentally used to treat patients with COVID-19, but whether the expanded use of stem cells is safe and reliable still lacks enough evidence. To address this issue, we systematically reviewed the safety and efficiency of stem cell therapy in COVID-19 cases.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, CNKI, WanFang, VIP and SinoMed up to January 18, 2022. The included studies were assessed using the Risk-of-bias tool 1.0 and MINORS instrument. The adverse events, mortality, length of hospital day and laboratory parameters were analyzed by meta-analysis. We adhered to PRISMA reporting guideline.

Results

We have included 17 studies meeting the inclusion data. There were no significant differences in AEs (OR = 0·39, 95% CI = 0·12 to 1·33, P = 0·13, I2 = 58%) and SAEs (OR = 0·21, 95% CI = 0·04 to 1·03, P = 0·05, I2 = 0%) between stem cell therapy group and control group. The analysis showed that stem cell treatment could significantly reduce the mortality rate(OR = 0·24, 95% CI = 0·13 to 0·45, P < 0·01, I2 = 0%), but was not able to cause changes in length of hospital stay or most laboratory parameters.

Conclusions

The present study shows that stem cell therapy for COVID-19 has a remarkable effect on efficiency without increasing risks of adverse events and length of hospital stay. It is potentially necessary to establish the criteria for COVID-19 for stem cell therapy.
Histopathological evaluation of Wallago attu (Bloch & Schneider, 1801) infested by ectoparasites
Authors: Vankara Anu prasanna , Thummala Chandrasekhar , Khateef Riazunnisa , Peddinti Rafeeq Ahammed
Published: June 2022

Background

Host-parasite interaction studies represent the dependency of the parasites on the host through various models. Gill infesting copepods, monogeneans and isopods served as excellent models to study the details of host-parasite interaction. In the present investigation,Wallago attu(Bloch & Schneider, 1801) was extensively studied for histopathological damage caused by ectoparasites like monogeneans (Thaparocleidus indicus, Thaparocleidus wallagoniusandMizelleus indicus), copepod (Ergasilus malnadensis) and an isopod (Alitropus typus) during August 2017 to February 2018. Both the control (least infested) and severely infested gills were examined through light microscope to approximate the intensity of damage caused by above ectoparasites.

Results

Pathological effects of ectoparasites displayed a fusion of secondary lamella, hyperplasia of the gill filaments and the epithelial cells, propagation of bronchial tips, thinning of the central axis, deshaping, shortening and fusion of secondary gill lamellae epithelium, severe degenerative and necrotic changes in gill filaments and secondary lamellae, curling of secondary lamellae and mucous cells proliferation.

Conclusions

Ectoparasites cause severe damage to gills ofW. attu, thereby diminishing the gill breathing capacity of the fish. Timely pathological studies can reveal the extent of damage caused by the parasites and thus various diagnostic programs and best management practices can be implemented in aquaculture for the better yield.
Case report of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis in a 24-year-old female: an uncommon presentation
Authors: Steeman Antoine , Andriescu Ionut , Sporcq Cécile , Mathieu Delphine , Meurant Virginie , Mazairac Guy
Published: June 2022

Background

Anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is a form of autoimmune encephalitis. Due to the variability of the initial symptoms, anti-NMDAR encephalitis is not only underdiagnosed but also can be misdiagnosed as viral encephalitis or other pathologies. The origin of this disease is often paraneoplastic. Anti-NMDAR encephalitis preferentially affects children and young adults, and it has a male/female ratio of 1/4. In case of clinical suspicion, electroencephalogram and brain magnetic resonance imaging are useful, but lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid analysis is used to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment for this disease includes immunosuppression and tumour resection when indicated.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 24-year-old female admitted to the emergency room following the onset of acute confusion. Due to the rapid deterioration of consciousness, swallowing disorders, respiratory failure and severe bradycardia the patient was intubated. On day 23 after presentation, brain magnetic resonance suggested autoimmune limbic encephalitis. Cerebrospinal fluid results were positive for anti-NMDA antibodies. After IV methylprednisolone and plasmapheresis and a second line therapy with corticosteroid and mycophenolic acid, the patient’s clinical condition gradually improved.

Conclusions

Anti-NMDAR encephalitis typically occurs in young patients with no history of acute psychiatric symptoms. The possibility of this pathology should be taken into account before diagnosing a patient with a psychiatric illness.
Times of the Timeless: May Sinclair, British Idealism, and the Stream of Consciousness
Authors: Prystash Justin
Published: June 2022

This article examines the relationship between British Idealist philosophy and modernist form, particularly the stream of consciousness technique. Idealism was ascendant from the 1870s to the 1920s, and the writer/philosopher May Sinclair participated in its conceptual discourse, finding the British Idealists’ contention that time is unreal an especially valuable insight for her literary agenda. For many of the idealists, time is unreal in the sense that multiple temporal series coexist within the universe or atemporal “Absolute.” This idea, which was debated in the journal Mind and elsewhere, played a significant role in the literary conception of “stream of consciousness,” a term first applied to literature by Sinclair in 1918. Considering the interplay of literature and philosophy during this period expands our understanding of the genealogy of modernist form and its effects. In particular, in evoking an experience of the timeless, for Sinclair stream of consciousness draws together authors, characters, and readers, generating among them complex investments, both ethical and ontological.
Modeling and reability assessment of rocking structures under seismic loading
Authors: Διαμαντόπουλος Σπυρίδων
Published: June 2022

Παρά την φαινομενική έλλειψη ενός μηχανισμού αντίστασης στις πλευρικές δυνάμεις, οι λικνιζόμενες κατασκευές παρουσιάζουν αξιοσημείωτη συμπεριφορά όταν υποβάλλονται σε σεισμική φόρτιση. Η Διατριβή παρουσιάζει μια νέα προσέγγιση για την προσομοίωση και για την αξιολόγηση της σεισμικής απόκρισης απλά εδραζόμενων, άκαμπτων ή εύκαμπτων, λικνιζόμενων συστημάτων. Τα προσομοιώματα που αναπτύχθηκαν και υιοθετήθηκαν χρησιμοποιούν στοιχεία δοκού, τα οποία συνδέονται με ένα μη-γραμμικό στροφικό ελατήριο αρνητικής δυσκαμψίας που περιγράφει την ροπή ευστάθειας των μελών. Η απώλεια ενέργειας κατά την κρούση αντιμετωπίζεται με μια νέα προσέγγιση που ενσωματώνει το συντελεστή αποκατάστασης. Η αποτελεσματικότητα και η ακρίβεια της προτεινόμενης μεθοδολογίας αποδεικνύεται με τη βοήθεια προσεκτικά επιλεγμένων περιπτώσεων χρησιμοποιώντας είτε απλούς παλμούς είτε σεισμικές καταγραφές. Η προτεινόμενη προσέγγιση επεκτείνεται σε λικνιζόμενα πλαίσια ενώ παρέχει τη δυνατότητα επέκτασης σε πλήθος άλλων λικνιζόμενων κατασκευών.Επιπλέον, η Διατριβή παρουσιάζει για πρώτη φορά ένα πλήρες πλαίσιο για την εκτίμηση της σεισμικής αξιοπιστίας και για την αξιολόγηση της σεισμικής διακινδύνευσης για απλά εδραζόμενα σώματα και περιεχόμενα κατασκευών που μπορούν να προσομοιωθούν ως λικνιζόμενα σώματα. Η σεισμική απόκριση περιεχομένων κατασκευών εξαρτάται από πολλές παραμέτρους όπως η γεωμετρία του αντικειμένου, τα δυναμικά χαρακτηριστικά του κτιρίου και ο όροφος που βρίσκεται εγκατεστημένο. Το κύριο ενδιαφέρον εστιάζεται στην αξιολόγηση της αξιοπιστίας συμπεριλαμβάνοντας τη σύνδεση της κατασκευής με τα περιεχόμενα. Η διαδικασία εκτίμησης της σεισμικής διακινδύνευσης και της σεισμικής τρωτότητας λαμβάνοντας συμμετρικά σώματα, επεκτείνεται σε ασύμμετρα σώματα ενώ διερευνώνται οι περιπτώσεις κιονοστοιχιών που φέρουν ένα επιστύλιο και λικνιζόμενων πλαισίων με διαφορετικού ύψους υποστυλώματα. Στην τελευταία περίπτωση εξετάζεται ένα ακόμη Μέτρο Έντασης (IM). Η προστασία της πολιτισμικής κληρονομιάς και των μουσειακών εκθεμάτων που υποβάλλονται σε σεισμική φόρτιση αποτελεί θέμα μεγάλης σπουδαιότητας. Δοκιμές σε σεισμική τράπεζα, που πραγματοποιήθηκαν στο CEA, Saclay, παρουσιάζονται στη Διατριβή. Έμφαση δόθηκε στη χρήση υπολογιστικών προσομοιωμάτων παράλληλα με τις πειραματικές διατάξεις. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, παρουσιάζεται μια εκτενής πειραματική διερεύνηση της σεισμικής απόκρισης εκθεμάτων, με έμφαση σε αγάλματα και προτομές. Στόχος είναι η κατανόηση της σεισμικής απόκρισης των αγαλμάτων και των προτομών και στη συνέχεια η ανάπτυξη νέων και οικονομικά αποδοτικών λύσεων για τη βελτίωση της σεισμικής τρωτότητας του πολύτιμου περιεχομένου των μουσείων. Εξετάστηκαν τόσο απλά εδραζόμενα όσο και σεισμικά μονωμένα εκθέματα.