bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rethinking progressive and conservative values: Spain's new economy workers and their values
Authors: Armando Fernández Steinko
Published: December 2021

Drawing on interviews carried out with workers in the new economy in Madrid, this paper argues that the dichotomy ‘individualism versus collectivism’ is inadequate to describe their value systems. It proposes instead an alternative typology based on distinctions between ‘personal’ and ‘organic’ values and ‘diversified’ and ‘non-diversified’ interests. The development of these values is placed in the context of the specific history of industralisation in southern Europe, which, along with eastern Europe, differs significantly from that of the economies of northern Europe which industrialised earlier and whose working classes developed different models of solidarity.
Quantitative analysis of formaldehyde solution based on terahertz attenuated total reflection and chemometric methods
Authors: Li Xuemin , Huang Haiqing , Zhou Wei , Li Dehua
Published: December 2021

In order to explore the possibility of using terahertz attenuated total reflection (THz-ATR) technology combined with chemometric methods to quantitatively analyze different concentrations of formaldehyde solutions, the THz-ATR was applied to measure the formaldehyde solution with a concentration of 0% to 10%, and the absorption coefficient and refractive index of the samples in the frequency range of 0.2 to 1.2 THz were calculated. Partial least squares (PLS) and back propagation (BP) neural network (BPNN) algorithms are used to establish the mathematical model to predict the relation between the absorption coefficient and the concentration as well as the refractive index and the concentration. Correlation coefficient

R

and the root-mean-square error RMSE obtained from the PLS prediction model based on the refractive index are 98.99% and 0.4604, respectively, and those based on the absorption coefficient are 99.05% and 0.4464, respectively. Meanwhile, the correlation coefficient

R

and root-mean-square error RMSE obtained from the BPNN prediction model based on the refractive index are 99.80% and 0.2407, while those based on the absorption coefficient are 99.93% and 0.1182, respectively.
Molecularization of meta-atoms for electromagnetically induced transparency resonance and quality-factor switching
Authors: He Weibao , Cheng Xiang’ai , Tong Mingyu , Hu Yuze
Published: December 2021

Electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) analogs in terahertz regimes have been actively tuned by hybridizing semiconductors into metasurfaces for effective terahertz manipulation. Although several multiple means have been adopted to modulate EIT, the active control of the EIT quality factor is less reported. Multifunctional EIT modulation should also be considered. In this study, we fabricated a terahertz metadevice by embedding Si bridges into a metasurface with optically controllable molecularization of terahertz meta-atoms and experimentally demonstrated dual-functional terahertz EIT modulation, including resonance amplitude modulation and quality-factor modulation. For a low-power pumping of 16 mW, ultrafast EIT resonance amplitude modulation can be achieved with a low-level molecularization, with a normalized amplitude modulation of up to 85%. Then, with a high-power pumping of 360 mW, we performed ultrafast EIT quality-factor switching, where the high Si-bridge conductivity altered the spatial interconnected structure and exhibited high-level molecularization. Both functions have a nanosecond-scale modulation speed. In addition, we numerically and theoretically explained the terahertz modulation and molecularization behaviors, which was consistent with the experimental results. Our proposed all-optical active terahertz metadevice with controllable molecularization provides a novel solution for multifunctional and ultrafast switchable terahertz modulators.
Highly efficient single-pixel imaging system based on the STEAM structure
Authors: Wang Guoqing , Zhao Fang , Xiao Dongrui , Shao Liyang , Zhou Yuan , Yu Feihong , Wang Weizhi , Liu Huanhuan , Wang Chao , Min Rui , Yan Zhijun , Shum Perry Ping
Published: December 2021

We propose and demonstrate a compact and highly efficient single-pixel imaging system with data compression based on the traditional serial time-encoded amplified microscopy (STEAM) structure. Our proposal solves the big data issue and low-efficiency bottleneck in the conventional STEAM systems. Also, a cascaded Mach-Zehnder interferometric (MZI) structure as the optical random pattern generator is proposed and experimentally demonstrated as the low-cost approach to achieve data compression. A 45° tilted fiber grating (TFG) is applied to increase the efficiency of the imaging system. A state-of-art experiment is performed and data compression ratios from 5% to 20% at an imaging size of 1mm*1.8mm are conducted using our proposed system for the first time to the best of our knowledge. The proposed optical imaging system mitigates the big data issue, decreases the system cost, and increases energy efficiency, and lays a solid foundation for low-cost, compact, and highly efficient ultrafast optical imaging.
Polymer-based S-band waveguide amplifier using NaYF4:Yb,Tm–PMMA nanocomposite as gain medium
Authors: Fu Yuewu , Yang Yu , Sun Tonghe , Tang Ying , Li Jun , Cui Hao , Qin Weiping , Wang Fei , Qin Guanshi , Zhao Dan
Published: December 2021

Optical waveguide amplifiers are essential to improve the performance
of integrated communication systems. Previous research has mainly
focused on C- and L-bands amplification, but there are few reports on
S-band waveguide amplifiers. Here, we introduce a polymer-based
waveguide amplifier that uses a
NaYF4:Yb3+,Tm3+ nanoparticles–PMMA
nanocomposite as gain medium, which can provide loss compensation in
the S-band. To obtain the strongest emission luminescence at 1480 nm,
we optimized the doping concentration of Yb3+ and
Tm3+ to 20% and 1%, respectively. By copolymerizing the
nanoparticles and methyl methacrylate monomers, the nanocomposite was
synthesized and used as the gain medium to fabricate S-band waveguide
amplifiers. A relative gain of 5.6 dB/cm was observed at 1480 nm under
the excitation of a 980-nm pump laser. To the best of our knowledge,
this is the first time that S-band amplification has been observed in
a polymer-based waveguide amplifier. This result is expected to extend
the waveband of polymer-based waveguide amplifiers to the S-band.
Demonstration of 3D photon correlation spectroscopy in the hard X-ray regime
Authors: Jo Wonhyuk , Rysov Rustam , Westermeier Fabian , Walther Michael , Müller Leonard , Philippi-Kobs André , Riepp Matthias , Marotzke Simon , Lokteva Irina , Sprung Michael , Grübel Gerhard , Roseker Wojciech
Published: December 2021

Three-dimensional photon correlation spectroscopy (3D PCS) is a
well-known technique developed to suppress multiple scattering
contributions in correlation functions, which are inevitably involved
when an optical laser is employed to investigate dynamics in a turbid
system. Here, we demonstrate a proof-of-principle study of 3D PCS in
the hard X-ray regime. We employ an X-ray optical cross-correlator to
measure the dynamics of silica colloidal nanoparticles dispersed in
polypropylene glycol. The obtained cross correlation functions show
very good agreement with auto-correlation measurements. This
demonstration provides the foundation for X-ray speckle-based studies
of very densely packed soft matter systems.
Numerical analysis of the coherent mechanism producing negative polarization at backscattering from systems of absorbing particles
Authors: Alhaddad Samer , Grynko Yevgen , Farheen Henna , Förstner Jens
Published: December 2021

We study a double-scattering coherent mechanism of negative polarization (NP) near opposition that is observed for powder-like surfaces. The problem is solved numerically for absorbing structures with irregular constituents, cubes, spheres, and ellipsoids larger than the wavelength of incident light. Our simulations show that double scattering between two random irregular particles shows weak NP. Adding one more particle significantly increases the relative contribution of double scattering which enhances NP. Simulations with regular shapes and controlled geometric parameters show that the interference mechanism is sensitive to the geometry of the scattering system and can also result in no polarization or even strong enhancement of positive polarization at backscattering.
High-sensitivity micro-strain sensing using a broadband wavelength-tunable thulium-doped all-fiber structured mode-locked laser
Authors: Wang Juan , Ge Siyu , Ren Hongfei , Huang Tao , Yang Peilong , Xu Peipeng , Bai Shengchuang , Dai Shixun , Du Jianke , Nie Qiuhua
Published: December 2021

We demonstrate a thulium-doped mode-locked fiber laser with ultra-broadband wavelength tunability for micro-strain sensing based on the multimode interference (MMI) effect in single-mode–multimode–single-mode (SMS) fiber configuration. The homemade SMS device with high performance is fusion spliced in the laser cavity, and the developed dispersion precisely managed the all-fiber structured mode-locked picosecond laser with a record-breaking wavelength tuning range from 1976 to 1916 nm while exerting axial strain on this SMS device. We experimentally explored the regularity between the strain and the central-wavelength shift of the mode-locked pulse, and for the first time to the best of the authors’ knowledge, achieved the precise in-line axial strain measurement from 0 to 5385 µɛ by using the tunable ultrafast-laser-based sensor, and sensitivity is up to –11.5 pm/µɛ. With high compactness and durability, this sensor has advantages in real-time dynamic measurement over other passive devices, thus will undoubtedly find various application scenarios.
Fast and simple calibration of frequency response and IQ skew for a coherent optical transmitter using a low-bandwidth photodetector
Authors: Li Hongyu , Yang Yu , Huang Chuanming , Dai Longquan , Cheng Mengfan , Xiong Xuan , Yang Qi , Tang Ming , Liu Deming , Deng Lei
Published: December 2021

A fast, precise, and low-cost coherent optical transmitter calibration scheme is proposed that uses multi-tone signals of a novel, to the best of our knowledge, design with unequal frequency intervals. With a single measurement, the proposed scheme can simultaneously calibrate the frequency response and the IQ skew of the transmitter using only a low-bandwidth photodiode. Simulation and experimental results indicate that the measurement error in the frequency response and coherent transmitter (Tx) skew is less than 0.3 dB and 0.2 ps, respectively. The feasibility of the proposed scheme is verified by an experiment involving 25 Gbaud 16-quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) signal transmission using a Kramers–Kronig (KK) receiver. With the help of this calibration method, the measured bit error ratio performance was increased from 1.77e−2 to 3.52e−3 when the received optical power was −8 dBm.
Long-term risk of a major cardiovascular event by apoB, apoA-1, and the apoB/apoA-1 ratio—Experience from the Swedish AMORIS cohort: A cohort study
Authors: Walldius Göran , de Faire Ulf , Alfredsson Lars , Leander Karin , Westerholm Peter , Malmström Håkan , Ivert Torbjörn , Hammar Niklas
Published: December 2021

Background

Elevated apolipoprotein B (apoB) and elevated apoB/apoA-1 ratio increase the risk of myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke, whereas high apoA-1 is protective. We study how these apolipoproteins are associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), whether apoA-1 contributes to this association, and whether abnormal values occur decades before such events develop.

Methods and findings

In the Swedish AMORIS (Apolipoprotein-related MOrtality RISk) cohort study, 137,100 men and women aged 25–84 years were followed an average 17.8 years. ApoB, apoA-1, and the apoB/apoA-1 ratio were analysed in relation to MACEs (non-fatal MI, stroke, and cardiovascular [CV] mortality), yielding 22,473 events. Hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated using Cox regression. Kaplan–Meier estimates were used to investigate the relationship of MACEs with increasing quintiles of the apoB/apoA-1 ratio in all age groups for both sexes. In nested case–control analyses, cases were randomly matched to age- and sex-matched controls, yielding population trajectories for apolipoproteins. Increased level of apoB and increased apoB/apoA-1 ratio were associated with risk of MACE and all clinical sub-components in both men and women across all ages (10th versus first decile in both sexes combined: HR 1.7 for MACE and 2.7 for non-fatal MI). Decreased values of apoA-1 potentiated the impact of apoB at all levels of apoB (on average across apoB range: 40% increase in HR for MACE and 72% increase in HR for non-fatal MI), indicating that the apoB/apoA-1 ratio covers a broader range of persons with dyslipidaemia at risk than apoB alone. In both men and women, MACEs occurred earlier on average for each increasing quintile of the apoB/apoA-1 ratio. Individuals with the highest levels of apoB/apoA-1 ratio experienced CV events on average several years earlier than those with lower ratios. Higher apoB/apoA-1 ratio in cases of MACE versus controls was seen already about 20 years before the event. A limitation of this study was that adjustment for tobacco smoking and hypertension was only possible in a small validation study.

Conclusions

An imbalance between apoB and apoA-1 resulting in an increased apoB/apoA-1 ratio is strongly associated with the outcome MACE and its sub-components, in both men and women of all ages. An increased apoB/apoA-1 ratio already 2 decades before events calls for early recognition and primary prevention. Simple evidence-based cut values should be considered in future cardiovascular guidelines.
Using Facebook data to predict the 2016 U.S. presidential election
Authors: Chang Keng-Chi , Chiang Chun-Fang , Lin Ming-Jen
Published: December 2021

We use 19 billion likes on the posts of top 2000 U.S. fan pages on Facebook from 2015 to 2016 to measure the dynamic ideological positions for politicians, news outlets, and users at the national and state levels. We then use these measures to derive support rates for 2016 presidential candidates in all 50 states, to predict the election, and to compare them with state-level polls and actual vote shares. We find that: (1) Assuming that users vote for candidates closer to their own ideological positions, support rates calculated using Facebook predict that Trump will win the electoral college vote while Clinton will win the popular vote. (2) State-level Facebook support rates track state-level polling averages and pass the cointegration test, showing two time series share similar trends. (3) Compared with actual vote shares, polls generally have smaller margin of errors, but polls also often overestimate Clinton’s support in right-leaning states. Overall, we provide a method to forecast elections at low cost, in real time, and based on passively revealed preference and little researcher discretion.
Seroprevalence and incidence of hepatitis A in Southeast Asia: A systematic review
Authors: Hernandez-Suarez Gustavo , Saha Debasish , Lodroño Kris , Boonmahittisut Phatu , Taniwijaya Stephanus , Saha Ashwini , Badur Selim , Poovorawan Yong
Published: December 2021

Background

A previous review on hepatitis A virus (HAV) seroprevalence in 2005 categorized Southeast Asia as a low HAV endemicity region. In 2010, the World Health Organization modified this from low to low/medium endemicity, pointing out that these estimates were based on limited evidence. Since then, there has been no attempt to review HAV epidemiology from this region. We conducted a systematic review of literature to collect information on HAV incidence and seroprevalence in select countries in the Southeast Asian region, specifically, The Association of Southeast Asian Nations over the last 20 years.

Methodology

This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. From the relevant articles, we extracted data and conducted a risk of bias assessment of individual studies.

Results

The search yielded 22 and 13 publications on HAV seroprevalence and incidence, respectively. Overall, our findings point to a very low HAV endemicity profile in Thailand and Singapore and evidence of a shift towards low HAV endemicity in Indonesia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Only Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines have existing HAV disease surveillance and reported incidence rates below 1 per 100,000. Several outbreaks with varying magnitude documented in the region provide insights into the evolving epidemiology of HAV in the region. Risk of bias assessment of studies revealed that the individual studies were of low to medium risk.

Conclusions/Significance

The available HAV endemicity profiles in Southeast Asian countries, aside from Thailand, are limited and outdated, but suggest an endemicity shift in the region that is not fully documented yet. These findings highlight the need to update information on HAV epidemiology through strengthening of disease surveillance mechanisms to confirm the shift in HAV endemicity in the region.
The transmission of drug-resistant strains of HIV in heterosexual populations based on genetic sequences
Authors: Jin Xin , Wang Zhen , Zhang Zhiyuan , Wu Hui , Ruan Yuhua , Zhang Chen , Kang Ruihua , Xing Hui , Lou Jie
Published: December 2021

Background

China’s National Free Antiretroviral Treatment Program (NFATP) has substantially reduced morbidity and HIV/AIDS incidence since 2003. However, HIV resistance to antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) has been a major challenge for the current treatment of HIV/AIDS in China.

Methods

In the current study, we established a nested dynamic model to predict the multi-drug resistance dynamics of HIV among the heterosexual population and evaluated the impact of intervention measures on the transmission of drug resistance. We obtained an effective reproductive numberRedfrom each sub-model held at different stages of the dynamic model. Meanwhile, we applied Bayesian phylogenetic methods to infer the weighted average effective reproductive numberRegfrom four HIV subtypes that sampled from 912 HIV-positive patients in China. It is an original and innovative method by fittingRedtoRegby Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) to generate unknown parameters inRed.

Results

By analyzing the HIV gene sequences, we inferred that the most recent common ancestor of CRF01AE, CRF07BC, CRF08BC, and CRFBC dated from 1994, 1990, 1993 and 1990, respectively. The weighted average effective reproductive numberRegdropped from 1.95 in 1994 to 1.73 in 2018. Considering different interventions, we used a macro dynamic model to predict the trend of HIV resistance. The results show that the number of new infections and total drug resistance under the baseline parameter (S1) are 253,422 and 213,250 in 2025, respectively. Comparing with the numbers under the target treatment rate (S2), they were 219,717 and 236,890, respectively. However, under the ideal treatment target (S3, the treatment rate reaches 90% and the treatment success rate reaches 90%), the number of new infections shows a declining trend and will decrease to 46,559 by 2025. Compared withS1andS2, the total number of resistance also decreased to 160,899 in 2025.

Conclusion

With the promotion of NFATP in China, HIV resistance to ARVs is inevitable. The strategy of increasing the treatment rate would not only ineffectively curb the epidemic, but also deteriorate drug resistance issue. Whereas, a combination of intervention strategies (the treatment rate reaches 90% and the treatment success rate reaches 90%) can greatly reduce both infection and drug resistance rate than applying one strategy alone.
Influence of nutrient status on the response of the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum to oil and dispersant
Authors: Kamalanathan Manoj , Hillhouse Jessica , Claflin Noah , Rodkey Talia , Mondragon Andrew , Prouse Alexandra , Nguyen Michelle , Quigg Antonietta
Published: December 2021

Phytoplankton play a central role in our ecosystems, they are responsible for nearly 50 percent of the global primary productivity and major drivers of macro-elemental cycles in the ocean. Phytoplankton are constantly subjected to stressors, some natural such as nutrient limitation and some manmade such as oil spills. With increasing oil exploration activities in coastal zones in the Gulf of Mexico and elsewhere, an oil spill during nutrient-limited conditions for phytoplankton growth is highly likely. We performed a multifactorial study exposing the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum (UTEX 646) to oil and/or dispersants under nitrogen and silica limitation as well as co-limitation of both nutrients. Our study found that treatments with nitrogen limitation (-N and–N-Si) showed overall lower growth and chlorophyll a, lower photosynthetic antennae size, lower maximum photosynthetic efficiency, lower protein in exopolymeric substance (EPS), but higher connectivity between photosystems compared to non-nitrogen limited treatments (-Si and +N+Si) in almost all the conditions with oil and/or dispersants. However, certain combinations of nutrient limitation and oil and/or dispersant differed from this trend indicating strong interactive effects. When analyzed for significant interactive effects, the–N treatment impact on cellular growth in oil and oil plus dispersant conditions; and oil and oil plus dispersant conditions on cellular growth in–N-Si and–N treatments were found to be significant. Overall, we demonstrate that nitrogen limitation can affect the oil resistant trait of P. tricornutum, and oil with and without dispersants can have interactive effects with nutrient limitation on this diatom.
On predictors of misconceptions about educational topics: A case of topic specificity
Authors: Asberger Jana , Thomm Eva , Bauer Johannes
Published: December 2021

A large variety of misconceptions about learning, teaching, and other educational topics is prevalent in the public but also among educational professionals. Such misconceptions may lead to ill-advised judgments and actions in private life, professional practice, and policymaking. Developing effective correction strategies for these misconceptions hinges on a better understanding of the factors that make individuals susceptible to or resilient against misconceptions. The present study surveyed students from educational and non-educational fields of study to investigate whether the endorsement of four typical educational misconceptions can be predicted by study-related variables (i.e., field of study and study progress) and by students’ cognitive ability (i.e., numeracy), epistemic orientations, general world views (i.e., conservative orientation), and education-related values (i.e., educational goals). A sample ofN= 315 undergraduates in teacher education and education- and non-education-related fields of study completed an online survey. Results from structural equation models showed that the pattern of effects strongly varied across the specific misconceptions. The two misconceptions related to teaching factors (i.e., class size and effectiveness of direct instruction as a teaching method) were the most strongly affected by the field of study and had an association with conservative orientation. In contrast, the misconception about the effectiveness of grade retention as an educational intervention was more prevalent among the students emphasizing conventional educational goals, such as discipline. None of the investigated explanatory variables proved predictive of the misconception about the “feminization” of education as an educational-equity topic. Moreover, neither numeracy nor epistemic orientation was found to have any effect on the endorsement of educational misconceptions. These findings emphasize the topic dependency of the factors that make individuals susceptible to misconceptions. Future research and intervention approaches need to consider the topic specificity of educational misconceptions.
The impact of different plant extracts on population suppression of Helicoverpa armigera (Hub.) and tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) yield under field conditions
Authors: Ali Shahbaz , Li Yunzhou , Haq Inzamam Ul , Abbas Waseem , Shabbir Muhammad Zeeshan , Khan Muhammad Musa , Mamay Mehmet , Niaz Yasir , Farooq Tahir , Skalicky Milan , Zuan Ali Tan Kee , Nasif Omaima , Ansari Mohamad Javed
Published: December 2021

Helicoverpa armigera(Hub.) is a destructive pest of the tomato (Lycopersicon esculentumMill) crop in Pakistan. Although insecticides are the primary management strategy used to controlH.armigera, most of them are not effective due to considerable toxic residual effects on the fruits. Nonetheless,H.armigerais rapidly evolving resistance against the available pesticides for its management. This situation calls upon the need of alternative management options against the pest. Different plant extracts have been suggested as a viable, environment-friendly option for plant protection with minimal side effects. Furthermore, the plant extracts could also manage the insect species evolving resistance against pesticides. This study evaluated the efficacy of different plant extracts (i.e., Neem seed, turmeric, garlic and marsh pepper) againstH.armigera. Furthermore, the impact of the plant extracts on growth and yield of tomato crop was also tested under field conditions. The results revealed that all plant extracts resulted in higher mortality ofH.armigeracompared to control. Similarly, the highest plant height was observed for the plants treated with the plant extracts compared to untreated plants. Moreover, the highest tomato yield was observed in plants treated with plant extracts, especially with neem seed (21.013 kg/plot) followed by pepper extract (19.25 kg/plot), and garlic extract 18.4 kg/plot) compared to the untreated plants (8.9 kg/plot). It is concluded that plant extracts can be used as eco-friendly approaches for improving tomato yield and resistance management ofH.armigera.
Proteomics and immunocharacterization of Asian mountain pit viper (Ovophis monticola) venom
Authors: Sitprija Siravit , Chanhome Lawan , Reamtong Onrapak , Thiangtrongjit Tipparat , Vasaruchapong Taksa , Khow Orawan , Noiphrom Jureeporn , Laoungbua Panithi , Tubtimyoy Arissara , Chaiyabutr Narongsak , Kumkate Supeecha
Published: December 2021

The venomic profile of Asian mountain pit viper Ovophis monticola is clarified in the present study. Using mass spectrometry-based proteomics, 247 different proteins were identified in crude venom of O. monticola found in Thailand. The most abundant proteins were snake venom metalloproteases (SVMP) (36.8%), snake venom serine proteases (SVSP) (31.1%), and phospholipases A2 (PLA2) (12.1%). Less abundant proteins included L-amino acid oxidase (LAAO) (5.7%), venom nerve growth factor (3.6%), nucleic acid degrading enzymes (3.2%), C-type lectins (CTL) (1.6%), cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISP) (1.2%) and disintegrin (1.2%). The immunoreactivity of this viper’s venom to a monovalent antivenom against green pit viper Trimeresurus albolabris, or to a polyvalent antivenom against hemotoxic venom was investigated by indirect ELISA and two-dimensional (2D) immunoblotting. Polyvalent antivenom showed substantially greater reactivity levels than monovalent antivenom. A titer for the monovalent antivenom was over 1:1.28x107 dilution while that of polyvalent antivenom was 1:5.12x107. Of a total of 89 spots comprising 173 proteins, 40 spots of predominantly SVMP, SVSP and PLA2 were specific antigens for antivenoms. The 49 unrecognized spots containing 72 proteins were characterized as non-reactive proteins, and included certain types of CTLs and CRISPs. These neglected venom constituents could limit the effectiveness of antivenom-based therapy currently available for victims of pit viper envenomation.
Value, transparency, and inclusion: A values-based study of patient involvement in musculoskeletal research
Authors: Bradshaw E. , Whale K. , Burston A. , Wylde V. , Gooberman-Hill R.
Published: December 2021

Background

Patient and public involvement work (PPI) is essential to good research practice. Existing research indicates that PPI offers benefits to research design, conduct, communication, and implementation of findings. Understanding how PPI works and its value helps to provide information about best practice and highlight areas for further development. This study used a values-based approach to reporting PPI at a Research Unit focused on musculoskeletal conditions within a UK medical school.

Methods

The study was conducted between October 2019 and January 2020 using Gradinger’s value system framework as a theoretical basis. The framework comprises three value systems each containing five clusters. All PPI members and researchers who had attended PPI groups were invited to participate. Participants completed a structured questionnaire based on the value system framework; PPI members also provided further information through telephone interviews. Data were deductively analysed using a framework approach with data mapped onto value systems.

Results

Twelve PPI members and 17 researchers took part. Views about PPI activity mapped onto all three value systems. PPI members felt empowered to provide their views, and that their opinions were valued by researchers. It was important to PPI members that they were able to ‘give back’ and to do something positive with their experiences. Researchers would have liked the groups to be more representative of the wider population, patients highlighted that groups could include more younger members. Researchers recognised the value of PPI, and the study highlighted areas where researchers members might benefit from further awareness.

Conclusions

Three areas for development were identified: (i) facilitating researcher engagement in training about the value and importance of PPI in research; (ii) support for researchers to reflect on the role that PPI plays in transparency of healthcare research; (iii) work to further explore and address aspects of diversity and inclusion in PPI.
Hematological malignancies in the Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Enawgaw Bamlaku , Aynalem Melak , Melku Mulugeta , Asrie Fikir , Abebe Molla , Yalew Aregawi , Bekele Tiruzer , Mesfin Nebiyu , Ayalew Mulugeta , Shiferaw Elias
Published: December 2021

Background

The effect of malignant diseases is increasing globally, particularly in developing countries as shown by recent cancer statistics from the world health organization reports. It is anticipated that with an increase in life expectancy consequent upon the improved standard of living and increasing urbanization, the burden of hematological malignancies in sub-Saharan Africa particularly in Ethiopia is likely to increase recently. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine the incidence and trend of hematological malignancy in Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based retrospective study was conducted from 2015 to 2019 at the University of Gondar and Bahir-Dar Felegehiwot comprehensive specialized hospitals. Hematological malignancy data were collected by using a data collection sheet that was consisted of patients’ socio-demography, clinical, and laboratory data. Then, data were entered into Epi-info 3.5.1 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Skewness and kurtosis were used to check data distribution. Descriptive statistics were summarized as percentages, means, and standard deviations of background variables, and the trend were analyzed.

Results

In this study, a total of 1,342 study participants were included. The mean age of study participants was 41.49 ± 16.3 years with a range of 1 to 92 years. About 58.3%, 52.2%, and 80% of the cases were observed among males, 18–45 age group, and urban residences, respectively. Of the total cases, 92.9% and 7.1% were lymphoma and leukemia, respectively. On the other hand, from lymphoma cases, 72.3% and 27.7% were HL and NHL, respectively while from leukemic cases, 61.1%, 23.2, 6.3%, 4.2%, and 5.3% were CLL, ALL, CML, AML, and other HM types, respectively. In this study, there was no trend.

Conclusion

We concluded that lymphoma was the dominant type of hematological malignancy observed in northwest Ethiopia. The study indicated that the majority of cases were observed among male, urban residents, and adult populations aged 18–45 years. Therefore, special focus should be given to the highly affected population. Further, a prospective cohort study should be conducted for a better understanding of the prevalence and associated factors to it.
The characteristics of oro-cervical necrotizing fasciitis—Comparison with severe cellulitis of oro-cervical region and necrotizing fasciitis of other body regions
Authors: Iwata Eiji , Kusumoto Junya , Takata Naoki , Furudoi Shungo , Tachibana Akira , Akashi Masaya
Published: December 2021

Background

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is an acute and life-threatening soft-tissue infection however rarely seen in oro-cervical region. Therefore, the details of oro-cervical NF (OCNF) are not well known. The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of OCNF by comparing it with severe cellulitis of oro-cervical region (OCSC) or NF of other body regions (e.g., limb, perineum, and trunk) (BNF), respectively.

Materials and methods

At first, various risk factors for OCNF in oro-cervical severe infection (OCSI; composed of OCNF and OCSC), including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) score, were investigated by univariate and multivariate analyses. Next, the differences between OCNF and BNF, including inflammatory markers and mortality, were investigated.

Results

In the present study, 14 out of 231 OCSI patients had OCNF. Multivariate analyses of OCSI patients showed that NLR ≥15.3 and LRINEC score ≥6 points were significantly related to OCNF. During the same period, 17 patients had BNF. The OCNF group had significantly higher inflammatory markers than the BNF group when diagnosis, but significantly lower clinical stages at the time and mortality as outcomes.

Conclusion

We found that compared to BNF, OCNF can be detected at lower clinical stage by using indexes, such as NLR and LRINEC score, besides clinical findings, which may help contributing to patient’s relief.
Correlates of perceived stress among community-dwelling older African Americans
Authors: Glover Crystal M. , Capuano Ana W. , Wilson Robert S. , Bennett David A. , Barnes Lisa L.
Published: December 2021

Background

The purpose of this study was to identify correlates of perceived stress among older African Americans.

Methods and findings

Guided by the National Institute on Aging’s (NIA) Health Disparities Research Framework, we grouped correlates into four levels–environmental, sociocultural, behavioral, and biological, and performed a cross-sectional analysis using ordinal logistic regression models. Participants included 722 African Americans [mean age = 73.61 years (SD = 6.33)] from the Minority Aging Research Study (MARS). Several protective correlates from environmental (e.g., larger life space), sociocultural (e.g., larger social network size), behavioral (e.g., more purpose in life), and biological (e.g., higher global cognition) levels were associated with a lower odds of having higher levels of perceived stress.

Conclusions

Perceived stress was associated with established and novel correlates from every level. Future research is needed to examine how changes in these correlates may impact perceived stress in older African Americans.
Modelling long-term COVID-19 impacts on the U.S. workforce of 2029
Authors: Shutters Shade T.
Published: December 2021

While ensuring employment opportunities is critical for global progress and stability, workers are now subject to several disruptive trends, including automation, rapid changes in technology and skill requirements, and transitions to low-carbon energy production. Yet, these trends seem almost insignificant compared to labor impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. While much has been written about the pandemic’s short-term impacts, this study analyzes anticipated long-term impacts on the labor force of 2029 by comparing original 2029 labor projections to special COVID-adjusted projections recently published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Results show that future demand for nearly every type of labor skill and knowledge will increase, while the nature of work shifts from physical to more cognitive activities. Of the nearly three million jobs projected to disappear by 2029 due to COVID, over 91% are among workers without a bachelor’s degree. Among workers with a degree demand shifts primarily from business-related degrees to computer and STEM degrees. Results further show that the socialness of labor, which is important for both innovation and productivity, increases in many more industries than it decreases. Finally, COVID will likely accelerate the adoption of teleworking and slightly decrease the rate of workforce automation. These impacts, combined with a shift to more cognitive worker activities, will likely impact the nature of workforce health and safety with less focus on physical injuries and more on illnesses related to sedentary lifestyles. Overall, results suggest that future workers will need to engage more often in training and skill acquisition, requiring life-long learning and skill maintenance strategies.
From the hobbit-hole: The Lord of the Rings fanzines of the 1960s and archival limitations
Authors: Ford Sarah
Published: December 2021

This article explores the ways in which fan archives, particularly physical archives of pre-internet fan artefacts, offer a limited perspective of fan participation based on conditions of access to fan community and production means. Using 1960s fan magazines dedicated to J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy that emerged in the early days of US-based fandom, this research demonstrates that analysis of the content of these fanzines is most significant to fan studies when it considers factors of publication such as who had access to printing materials, funding and the social conditions of the 1960s that would have privileged specific fan voices over others. I argue that archives that fail to take factors such as these into account help to perpetuate notions of acceptable fandom as practised by White fans. The fandom presented in the pages of The Lord of the Rings fanzines, as presented by their political statements or lack of, shows how fandom interests change when fandoms move from heavily concentrated spaces, fanzines, to broader and more accessible spaces such as the internet.
«¿Quién limpia los pájaros después?»
Authors: Tavares Duarte Elisa
Published: December 2021

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo comprender la fotografía en la frontera entre el arte y la ciencia, centrándose en el proyecto Belleza amenazada, desarrollado desde 2004, por el fotógrafo brasileño Tony Genérico. El referido proyecto consiste en un conjunto de fotografías de pájaros en riesgo de extinción, producidas mediante la combinación de las técnicas de alta velocidad y el splash. Para ello, el estudio tiene como fuente principal una entrevista realizada por la autoría al fotógrafo, que permite conocer su trayectoria biográfica y profesional. La idea de que el referido proyecto dialoga con el arte y la ciencia es posible desde la perspectiva de los marcos sociales de producción: las posibilidades técnicas y tecnológicas, así como las relaciones sociales que el fotógrafo ha establecido a lo largo de la construcción de su obra.
mirada antropológica de Theo Angelopoulos en Ulysses’ Gaze
Authors: Candado Alonso Agustín-Julián
Published: December 2021

La Mirada de Ulises es una película de 1995 dirigida por Theo Angelopoulos. En ella, el director griego nos invita a seguir los pasos de A. un ¿ficticio? cineasta griego que busca unas bobinas sin procesar de los Hermanos Manakis. A pesar de la simple premisa, pronto descubrimos cómo la película se convierte en un ejercicio profundamente autoconsciente de tintes antropológicos y filosóficos sobre cuestiones como la identidad, la memoria o el sentido de la experiencia.

En este trabajo evaluaremos la competencia antropológica de la cinta a través de una metodología comparativa entre el lenguaje poético y cinematográfico del director griego y el andamiaje propio de la antropología. Así, analizaremos secuencias específicas del filme que aborden temas antropológicos y reflexionaremos sobre las conclusiones o preguntas lanzadas por Angelopoulos con su película.

Como resultado, descubriremos que, no solo este ejercicio cinematográfico supone un interesante ensayo etnográfico, sino que lo que comúnmente denominados como obras de arte lleva implícito un interesante trabajo de campo antropológico.
Educomunicación, tics y prisión
Authors: De Andrés del Campo Susana , García Matilla Agustín , Merchán Bermejo José María
Published: December 2021

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación cualitativa sobre la percepción de personas internas del centro penitenciario de Topas, Salamanca (España) en torno a las oportunidades educativas y el uso de TICs que realizan en la cárcel. Valoran como un hándicap la brecha tecnológica y la falta de oportunidades para compensarla, ya que, en su opinión, frenará sus oportunidades de reinserción.

El derecho al acceso a las nuevas tecnologías de la información y la comunicación está recogido en el marco del Derecho a la Educación. Se trata de un Derecho Fundamental contemplado en el ordenamiento jurídico nacional e internacional, que parece encontrar una de sus fisuras en un modelo de cárcel en el que las penas de privación de libertad se suman a la restricción de acceso a estas tecnologías, a pesar de que la cárcel se defina por su finalidad reeducativa y resocializadora.
THE TIMECOURSE OF GLOBAL COGNITIVE GAINS FROM SUPERVISED COMPUTER-ASSISTED COGNITIVE TRAINING: A RANDOMISED, ACTIVE-CONTROLLED TRIAL IN ELDERLY WITH MULTIPLE DEMENTIA RISK FACTORS
Authors: Lampit A. , Hallock H. , Moss R. , Kwok S. , Rosser M. , Lukjanenko M. , Kohn A. , Naismith S. , Brodaty H. , Valenzuela M.
Published: December 2021

Background: Home-based computerised cognitive training (CCT) is ineffective at enhancing global cognition, a key marker of cognitive ageing. Objectives: To test the effectiveness of supervised, group-based, multidomain CCT on global cognition in older adults and to characterise the dose-response relationship during and after training. Design: A randomised, double-blind, longitudinal, active-controlled trial. Setting: Community-based training centre in Sydney, Australia Participants: Eighty nondemented community-dwelling older adults (mean age = 72.1, 68.8% females) with multiple dementia risk factors but no major neuropsychiatric or sensory disorder. Of the 80 participants admitted to the study, 65 completed post-training assessment and 55 were followed up one year after training cessation. Interventions: Thirty-six group-based sessions over three months of either CCT targeting memory, speed, attention, language and reasoning tasks, or active control training comprising audiovisual educational exercises. Measurements: Primary outcome was change from baseline in global cognition as defined by a composite score of memory, speed and executive function. Secondary outcome was 15-month change in Bayer Activities of Daily Living from baseline to one year post-training. Results: Intention-to-treat analyses revealed significant effects on global cognition in the cognitive training group compared to active control after three weeks of training (ES = 0.33, P=.039) that increased after 3 months of training (ES = 0.49, P=.003) and persisted three months after training cessation (ES = 0.30, P=0.023). Significant and durable improvements were also noted in memory and processing speed. Dose-response characteristics differed among cognitive domains. Training effects waned gradually but residual gains were noted twelve months post-training. No significant effects on activities of daily living were noted and there were no adverse effects. Conclusions: In older adults with multiple dementia risk factors, group-based CCT is a safe and effective intervention for enhancing overall cognition, memory and processing speed. Dose-response relationships vary for each cognitive domain, vital information for clinical and community implementation and further trial design.
P006 The Relationship of Histological Remission With the Duration of the Anamnesis Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Knyazev Oleg , Khomeriki Sergey , Kagramanova Anna , Lishchinskaya Albina , Noscova Karina , Li Irina , Shkurko Tatyana , Parfenov Asfold
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND:

The objectives of the treatment of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) in accordance with the STRIDE-I provision, involves endoscopic healing of the colon mucosa. Histological remission is associated with endoscopic healing, which can be a predictor of long-term results. Biological and cellular therapy is most effective in the early stages of the disease.

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the depth of histological remission with the duration of UC.

METHODS:

The biopsy material of 75 patients with total or left-sided UC of moderate severity and severe severity aged from 22 to 56 years (average age 31 ± 2.5 years), who were divided into groups depending on the therapy, was studied. The first group of patients with UC aged 22 to 51 years (Me-32) (n = 29) received anti-inflammatory therapy using mesenchymal stromal cell culture (MSCs) 2 million/kg; the second group of patients with UC (n = 27) aged 24 to 56 years (Me-38) received vedolizumab (VDB) according to the recommended scheme, the third group of patients with UC (n = 19) aged 27 to 52 years (Me-31) received MSCs+VDB. The achievement of histological remission was assessed by the score of Geboes (SG).

RESULTS:

In 1st group, patients who achieved histological remission (SG1) with a disease duration of more than 5 years - 14 (48.3%) patients, less than 5 years - 5 (17.2%) (95% CI 1.256 – 19.293; x2-7.635; p = 0.006). In the 2nd group of patients who achieved histological remission (SG1) with a disease duration of more than 5 years - 15 (55.5%) patients, less than 5 years - 4 (14.9%) (95% CI 1.262 - 20.615; x2-7.026; p = 0.009). In the 3rd group of patients who achieved histological remission (SG1) with a disease duration of more than 5 years - 4 (21.1%) patients, less than 5 years - 7 (36.8%) (95% CI 1.080 - 138.995; x2-4.968; p = 0.026).

CONCLUSION:

A statistically significant majority of patients who achieved histological remission, regardless of the therapy, had a disease duration of less than 5 years.