bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and correlates of common mental health problems and recent suicidal thoughts and behaviours among female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Beksinska Alicja , Jama Zaina , Kabuti Rhoda , Kungu Mary , Babu Hellen , Nyariki Emily , Shah Pooja ,   Maisha Fiti Study Champions, Gwala Demtilla , Oside Daisy , Kamene Ruth , Watata Agnes , Atieno Agnes , Njau Faith , Njeri Elizabeth , Orobi Evelyn , Lwingi Ibrahim , Nyabuto Chrispo , Okumu Monica , Mahero Anne , Ngurukiri Pauline , Irungu Erastus , Adhiambo Wendy , Muthoga Peter , Kaul Rupert , Seeley Janet , Beattie Tara S. , Weiss Helen A. , Kimani Joshua
Published: October 2021

Background

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), poverty, violence and harmful alcohol/substance use are associated with poor mental health outcomes, but few studies have examined these risks among Female Sex Workers (FSWs). We examine the prevalence and correlates of common mental health problems including suicidal thoughts and behaviours among FSWs in Kenya.

Methods

Maisha Fiti is a longitudinal study among FSWs randomly selected from Sex Worker Outreach Programme (SWOP) clinics across Nairobi. Baseline behavioural-biological survey (n = 1003) data were collected June–December 2019. Mental health problems were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) for depression, the Generalised Anxiety Disorder tool (GAD-7) for anxiety, the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ-17) for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and a two-item tool to measure recent suicidal thoughts/behaviours. Other measurement tools included the WHO Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) score, WHO Violence Against Women questionnaire, and the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were conducted using a hierarchical modelling approach.

Results

Of 1039 eligible FSWs, 1003 FSWs participated in the study (response rate: 96%) with mean age 33.7 years. The prevalence of moderate/severe depression was 23.2%, moderate/severe anxiety 11.0%, PTSD 14.0% and recent suicidal thoughts/behaviours 10.2% (2.6% suicide attempt, 10.0% suicidal thoughts). Depression, anxiety, PTSD and recent suicidal thoughts/behaviours were all independently associated with higher ACE scores, recent hunger (missed a meal in last week due to financial difficulties), recent sexual/physical violence and increased harmful alcohol/substance. PTSD was additionally associated with increased chlamydia prevalence and recent suicidal thoughts/behaviours with low education and low socio-economic status. Mental health problems were less prevalent among women reporting social support.

Conclusions

The high burden of mental health problems indicates a need for accessible services tailored for FSWs alongside structural interventions addressing poverty, harmful alcohol/substance use and violence. Given the high rates of ACEs, early childhood and family interventions should be considered to prevent poor mental health outcomes.
Assessment of psychometric properties of the questionnaire on supervisor-doctoral student interaction (QSDI) in Iran
Authors: Daryoushi Hooman , Jalali Amir , Karimi Ehsan , Salari Nader , Abbasi Parvin
Published: October 2021

Background

One of the main elements that help students in research projects and composing dissertations is the student-supervisor relationship. A valid and reliable tool to measure this seems essential and it is the objective of the present study to validate and assess the psychometric properties of a questionnaire on supervisor-doctoral student interaction (QSDI) in Iran.

Methods

Before starting the study, a permission from the developer of the tool was secured. Then the tool was forward-backward translated. After preparing the Farsi version of the tool, content validity was confirmed through qualitative and quantitative methods. To examine construct validity, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were conducted with participation of 218 and 410 MD, MSc, and PhD students of medical sciences, respectively. To check reliability of the tool, correlation coefficient was used. To examine internal consistency of the tool, Cronbach’s alpha was used. Data analyses were done in SPSS (v.25) and LISREL (v.8).

Results

The EFA and CFA results revealed eight factors and 39 items. The value of R-square for the model was equal to 0.99, which means 99% of changes in the dependent variable (supervisor-student interaction) is attributed to the independent variable (41 items). That is, 99% of the dependent variable changes is due to the independent variables. The main indices of the model based on factor analyses were supported (0.9<), which indicated goodness of fit of the model (χ2/df = 1.76, CFI, NFI, TLI = 0.98 GFI = 0.91, RMSEA = 0.043, R-square = 0.99). The significance level for correlation coefficient was below 0.05. Reliability of the tool was supported based on internal correlation (Cronbach’s alpha) equal to 0.943 for the whole tool and in 0.89–0.97 range for the subscales.

Conclusion

In general, the results showed that the Farsi version of QSDI (eight factors and 39 items) had acceptable and applicable indices and it can be used as a valid tool in different fields for higher education students of medical sciences.
The Annual costs of treating genital warts in the Public Healthcare Sector in Peru
Authors: Saldarriaga Enrique M , Cárcamo Cesar P. , Babigumira Joseph B. , García Patricia J.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To estimate the cost of six different techniques used to treat Genital Warts and the annual average cost of treating a typical GW patient in Peru. To estimate the annual economic burden diagnosing and treating GW in the Peruvian public healthcare system.

Methods

We developed a prevalence-based, cost-of-illness study from the provider’s perspective, the healthcare facilities under the purview of Peruvian Ministry of Health. We used an activity-based costing approach. We conducted primary data collection in three regions in Peru and supplemented it with governmental data. Uncertainty of the costing estimates was assessed via Monte Carlo simulations. We estimated the average cost and associated confidence intervals for six treatment options – three topical and three surgical – and the overall cost per patient.

Results

The average treatment cost per patient was 59.9USD (95 %CI 45.5, 77.6). Given a population of 18.4 million adults between 18 and 60 years of age and a GW prevalence of 2.28 %, the annual cost of treating GW was 25.1 million USD (uncertainty interval 16.9, 36.6).

Conclusions

This study provides the first quantification of the economic burden of treating genital warts in Peru and one of the few in Latin America. The costing data did not include other healthcare providers or out-of-pocket expenditures, and hence we present a conservative estimate of the COI of GW in Peru. Our findings bring attention to the financial burden of treating GW, a vaccine-preventable disease.
Salivary cortisol and eye temperature changes during endurance competitions
Authors: de Mira Monica C. , Lamy Elsa , Santos Rute , Williams Jane , Pinto Mafalda Vaz , Martins Pedro S. , Rodrigues Patrícia , Marlin David
Published: October 2021

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the usefulness of salivary cortisol (SC) and eye temperature measured by infrared thermography (IRTET) as biomarkers to manage competitions more effectively and monitor horse welfare in endurance competitions. Based on previous studies, it was hypothesised that pre-exercise baseline SC and IRTET would be higher in younger or less experienced horses, and that post-exercise variation from baseline would be higher in the top finishers.

Results

Salivary cortisol measured in 61 competing at qualifier 40 km and 80 km rides showed an abrupt variation (93–256% rise) of the baseline SC levels [median ± interquartile range (IQR) = 0.27 ng/dl ± 0.36] obtained at the Pre-Inspection (PI) into Vet Gate (VG)1 independently of the covered distance, but modest or even lower in the subsequent Vet Gates, e.g. VG2 or VG3. The IRTET measured concomitantly in 16 horses showed significant (p < 0.05) higher levels at the PI in less experienced horses participating in the 40 km ride (median ± IQR = 35.7 °C ± 1.4) than their counterparts in the 80 km ride (median ± IQR = 35.0 °C ± 1.5), but not SC. Baseline SC levels at the PI of horses classifying in the Top5 in the 40 km ride category were significantly (p < 0.05) higher median ± IQR = 0.90 ng/ml ±0.61) when compared to horses positioned from 10th position on (median ± IQR = 0.16 ng/ml ±0.40). A lower IRTET in the PI was correlated with better placement (p < 0.05) and those in the Top5 (median ± IQR = 33.9 °C ± 0.0) had a significantly (p < 0.5) higher variation (+ 10.65%) into the last VG.

Conclusion

Pre-exercise baseline IRTET levels, but not SC, were higher in less experienced horses in the 40 compared to their counterparts in the 80 km ride competitions. SC and IRTET showed different indications according to the competition. In the40 km ride competition, higher baseline pre-exercise SC levels seemed to be linked to a better classification outcome. In contrast, in the 80 km ride horses, the higher IRTET variation from pre-exercise into final Vet Gate was the parameter associated with a better performance. A more controlled environment and a larger sample are needed to confirm these results and monitor horse welfare in competitions.
Evaluation of deep learning-based autosegmentation in breast cancer radiotherapy
Authors: Byun Hwa Kyung , Chang Jee Suk , Choi Min Seo , Chun Jaehee , Jung Jinhong , Jeong Chiyoung , Kim Jin Sung , Chang Yongjin , Chung Seung Yeun , Lee Seungryul , Kim Yong Bae
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To study the performance of a proposed deep learning-based autocontouring system in delineating organs at risk (OARs) in breast radiotherapy with a group of experts.

Methods

Eleven experts from two institutions delineated nine OARs in 10 cases of adjuvant radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery. Autocontours were then provided to the experts for correction. Overall, 110 manual contours, 110 corrected autocontours, and 10 autocontours of each type of OAR were analyzed. The Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and Hausdorff distance (HD) were used to compare the degree of agreement between the best manual contour (chosen by an independent expert committee) and each autocontour, corrected autocontour, and manual contour. Higher DSCs and lower HDs indicated a better geometric overlap. The amount of time reduction using the autocontouring system was examined. User satisfaction was evaluated using a survey.

Results

Manual contours, corrected autocontours, and autocontours had a similar accuracy in the average DSC value (0.88 vs. 0.90 vs. 0.90). The accuracy of autocontours ranked the second place, based on DSCs, and the first place, based on HDs among the manual contours. Interphysician variations among the experts were reduced in corrected autocontours, compared to variations in manual contours (DSC: 0.89–0.90 vs. 0.87–0.90; HD: 4.3–5.8 mm vs. 5.3–7.6 mm). Among the manual delineations, the breast contours had the largest variations, which improved most significantly with the autocontouring system. The total mean times for nine OARs were 37 min for manual contours and 6 min for corrected autocontours. The results of the survey revealed good user satisfaction.

Conclusions

The autocontouring system had a similar performance in OARs as that of the experts’ manual contouring. This system can be valuable in improving the quality of breast radiotherapy and reducing interphysician variability in clinical practice.
The biomechanical effect of the relevant segments after facet-disectomy in different diameters under posterior lumbar percutaneous endoscopes: a three-dimensional finite element analysis
Authors: Shi Yin , Xie Yi-Zhou , Zhou Qun , Yu Yang , Fan Xiao-Hong
Published: October 2021

Objective

To evaluate the biomechanical influence after percutaneous endoscopic lumbar facetectomy in different diameters on segmental range of motion (ROM) and intradiscal pressure (IDP) of the relevant segments by establishing three dimensional finite element (FE) model.

Methods

An intact L3–5 model was successfully constructed from the CT of a healthy volunteer as Model A (MA). The Model B (MB), Model C (MC) and Model D (MD) were obtained through facetectomy on L4 inferior facet in diameters 7.5 mm, 10 mm and 15 mm on MA for simulation. The ROM and IDP of L3/4 and L4/5 of four models were all compared in forward flexion, backward extension, left and right bending, left and right rotation.

Results

Compared with MA, the ROM of L4/5 of MB, MC and MD all increased. MD changed more significantly than MB and MC in backward extension, right bending and right rotation. But that of MB and MC on L3/4 had no prominent change, while MD had a slight increase in backward extension. The IDP of MB and MC on L4/5 in six states was similar to MA, yet MD increased obviously in backward extension, right bending, left and right rotation. The IDP on L3/4 of MB and MC was resemble to MA in six conditions, nevertheless MD increased slightly only in backward extension.

Conclusion

Compared with the facetectomy in diameters 7.5 mm and 10 mm, the mechanical effect brought by facetectomy in diameter 15 mm on the operating segment changed more significantly, and had a corresponding effect on the adjacent segments.
Comparative effectiveness of two methods for inducing osteoarthritis in a novel animal model, the Diannan small-ear pig
Authors: Jia Di , Zhang Ruixian , He Yinghong , Cai Guofeng , Zheng Jiali , Yang Yuye , Li Yanlin
Published: October 2021

Background

Varieties of animals were used to study osteoarthritis pathogenesis. The Diannan small-ear pig, which is native to Yunnan, China, is thought to have an articular anatomy similar to that of humans and is more likely to be a source of pathological tissues than other animals. The aim of this study was to determine whether this animal can serve as a more effective osteoarthritis model and explore the role of SDF-1/CXCR4 signaling pathway in the development of Osteoarthritis in animals.

Methods

Twenty-seven adult pigs were randomly divided into three groups and underwent the Hulth procedure, papain articular injection, and conventional breeding. After 4, 8, and 12 weeks, cartilage tissues from knee joint were extracted for general and histological observation, immunofluorescence, and biochemical analysis. Synovium was taken out for stromal cell-derived factor-1 analysis.

Results

Histopathological observation showed obvious cartilage loss in two experimental groups, this cartilage loss was more severe in the chemical groups. Synovial stromal cell-derived factor1 levels increased over time in all groups. mRNA and protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase-3 were much higher in the chemical groups than in the other groups, whereas levels of collagen type II and aggrecan were significantly lower in the chemical groups than in the other groups. Immunofluorescence assays of collagen type II revealed an apparent reduction in this marker in the chemical groups compared with the other groups.

Conclusions

These results indicated that the Diannan small-ear pig can be used as an effective osteoarthritis model. In addition, it is much more convenient and much faster to induce osteoarthritis by intra-articular injection of papain, which is a method worthy of being promoted.
Comparative outcomes between all-inside arthroscopic suture anchor technique versus arthroscopic transosseous suture technique in patients with triangular fibrocartilage complex tear: a retrospective comparative study
Authors: Hung Chia-Hung , Kuo Yu-Feng , Chen Yu-Jen , Yeh Ping-Chun , Cho Hsiao-Yun , Chen Yeong-Jang
Published: October 2021

Background

Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) has become an interest over the last few decades, discovering its understanding in anatomy, pathomechanism, biomechanics, and management in treatments. Currently, TFCC does not have a golden standard procedure, and not one surgical procedure is superior to the other. This study is to evaluate the comparative outcomes in TFCC patients that underwent either in all-inside arthroscopic suture anchors or the arthroscopic transosseous suture technique.

Method

From 2017 to 2019, 30 patients were analyzed. Eight patients were in an arthroscopic transosseous group and 22 patients were in an all-inside arthroscopic group. Comparison between patients’ flexion and extension range of motion (ROM), grip strength, and visual analog pain scale (VAS) preoperative and six-month follow-up were analyzed.

Result

There were significant increases in flexion ROM, extension ROM, and VAS between preoperative and postoperative in all-inside arthroscopic and arthroscopic transosseous. Only the all-inside arthroscopic group had a significant increase in grip strength. Postoperative flexion ROM had a significant difference between all-inside arthroscopic and arthroscopic transosseous.

Conclusion

Both the all-inside arthroscopic suture anchor technique and the arthroscopic transosseous suture technique are appropriate treatments to treat patients with TFCC. Both procedures have achieved the ultimate goal of improved longevity and optimal function.

Level of evidence

Level III; retrospective comparative cohort study.
In-depth phenotyping for clinical stratification of Gaucher disease
Authors: D’Amore Simona , Page Kathleen , Donald Aimée , Taiyari Khadijeh , Tom Brian , Deegan Patrick , Tan Chong Y. , Poole Kenneth , Jones Simon A. , Mehta Atul , Hughes Derralynn , Sharma Reena , Lachmann Robin H. , Chakrapani Anupam , Geberhiwot Tarekegn , Santra Saikat , Banka Siddarth , Cox Timothy M. ,   the MRC GAUCHERITE Consortium, Cox T. M. , Platt F. M. , Banka S. , Chakrapani A. , Deegan P. B. , Geberhiwot T. , Hughes D. A. , Jones S. , Lachmann R. H. , Santra S. , Sharma R. , Vellodi A.
Published: October 2021

Background

The Gaucher Investigative Therapy Evaluation is a national clinical cohort of 250 patients aged 5–87 years with Gaucher disease in the United Kingdom—an ultra-rare genetic disorder. To inform clinical decision-making and improve pathophysiological understanding, we characterized the course of Gaucher disease and explored the influence of costly innovative medication and other interventions. Retrospective and prospective clinical, laboratory and radiological information including molecular analysis of theGBA1 gene and comprising > 2500 variables were collected systematically into a relational database with banking of collated biological samples in a central bioresource. Data for deep phenotyping and life-quality evaluation, including skeletal, visceral, haematological and neurological manifestations were recorded for a median of 17.3 years; the skeletal and neurological manifestations are the main focus of this study.

Results

At baseline, 223 of the 250 patients were classified as type 1 Gaucher disease. Skeletal manifestations occurred in most patients in the cohort (131 of 201 specifically reported bone pain). Symptomatic osteonecrosis and fragility fractures occurred respectively in 76 and 37 of all 250 patients and the first osseous events occurred significantly earlier in those with neuronopathic disease. Intensive phenotyping in a subgroup of 40 patients originally considered to have only systemic features, revealed neurological involvement in 18: two had Parkinson disease and 16 had clinical signs compatible with neuronopathic Gaucher disease—indicating a greater than expected prevalence of neurological features. Analysis of longitudinal real-world data enabled Gaucher disease to be stratified with respect to advanced therapies and splenectomy. Splenectomy was associated with an increased hazard of fragility fractures, in addition to osteonecrosis and orthopaedic surgery; there were marked gender differences in fracture risk over time since splenectomy. Skeletal disease was a heavy burden of illness, especially where access to specific therapy was delayed and in patients requiring orthopaedic surgery.

Conclusion

Gaucher disease has been explored using real-world data obtained in an era of therapeutic transformation. Introduction of advanced therapies and repeated longitudinal measures enabled this heterogeneous condition to be stratified into obvious clinical endotypes. The study reveals diverse and changing phenotypic manifestations with systemic, skeletal and neurological disease as inter-related sources of disability.
Functional mobility in walking adult population with ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay
Authors: Lessard Isabelle , St-Gelais Raphaël , Hébert Luc J. , Côté Isabelle , Mathieu Jean , Brais Bernard , Gagnon Cynthia
Published: October 2021

Background

This study aimed to describe lower limbs impairments, balance and activity limitations related to indoor mobility in adult walkers with autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS).

Results

Twenty-five participants were recruited with a mean age of 32.2 (± 10.4) years with 45.7% using a walking aid. There is a significant difference between participants with and without a walking aid in terms of lower limbs coordination, balance and mobility. Although participants who walk without a walking aid perform better than the others and they are below predictive or reference values. Despite significant mobility limitations, only mild spasticity and passive range of motion limitations were observed. However, there is a significant difference between unaffected individuals and participants with ARSACS for lower limb muscle cocontraction.

Conclusions

Results show a high level of lower limb impairments, balance and mobility limitation in adults’ participants with ARSACS that are still walking, including people not using a walking aid. One of the most original finding is the presence of excessive cocontraction and a relatively mild level of spasticity in the lower limbs muscles. Results of this study better circumscribes the impairments and activities that should be the focus of intervention including rehabilitation in ARSACS.
A global screening identifies chromatin-enriched RNA-binding proteins and the transcriptional regulatory activity of QKI5 during monocytic differentiation
Authors: Ren Yue , Huo Yue , Li Weiqian , He Manman , Liu Siqi , Yang Jiabin , Zhao Hongmei , Xu Lingjie , Guo Yuehong , Si Yanmin , Zhao Hualu , Rao Shuan , Wang Jing , Ma Yanni , Wang Xiaoshuang , Yu Jia , Wang Fang
Published: October 2021

Background

Cellular RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) have multiple roles in post-transcriptional control, and some are shown to bind DNA. However, the global localization and the general chromatin-binding ability of RBPs are not well-characterized and remain undefined in hematopoietic cells.

Results

We first provide a full view of RBPs’ distribution pattern in the nucleus and screen for chromatin-enriched RBPs (Che-RBPs) in different human cells. Subsequently, by generating ChIP-seq, CLIP-seq, and RNA-seq datasets and conducting combined analysis, the transcriptional regulatory potentials of certain hematopoietic Che-RBPs are predicted. From this analysis, quaking (QKI5) emerges as a potential transcriptional activator during monocytic differentiation. QKI5 is over-represented in gene promoter regions, independent of RNA or transcription factors. Furthermore, DNA-bound QKI5 activates the transcription of several critical monocytic differentiation-associated genes, including CXCL2, IL16, and PTPN6. Finally, we show that the differentiation-promoting activity of QKI5 is largely dependent on CXCL2, irrespective of its RNA-binding capacity.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that Che-RBPs are versatile factors that orchestrate gene expression in different cellular contexts, and identifies QKI5, a classic RBP regulating RNA processing, as a novel transcriptional activator during monocytic differentiation.
Evidence for the spread of the alien species Aedes koreicus in the Lombardy region, Italy
Authors: Negri Agata , Arnoldi Irene , Brilli Matteo , Bandi Claudio , Gabrieli Paolo , Epis Sara
Published: October 2021

Background

Aedes koreicus is a mosquito species characterized by marked anthropophilic behavior, and a potential vector of nematodes and viruses. It is native to East Asia, but its presence has recently been reported in many regions of Europe. In Italy, these mosquitoes had been detected in the northeast since 2011 and are now spreading towards the southwest of the country.

Methods

In 2020, during a surveillance program for invasive mosquito species in the district of Bergamo (Lombardy Region, Italy), about 6000 mosquito larvae were collected. Emerged adults were assigned to mosquito species according to morphological analyses, followed by amplification and sequencing of genetic markers (COI, ND4, ITS2 and D2).

Results

According to the morphological and genetic data, about 50 individuals belonged to the species Ae. koreicus.

Conclusion

We report the presence of Ae. koreicus in the district of Bergamo, which confirms the spread of this species in the north of Italy and raises concerns about its possible role as a vector of diseases in the Alpine area.

Graphical Abstract
Occurrence of juvenile Dermacentor reticulatus ticks in three regions in Poland: the final evidence of the conquest
Authors: Dwużnik-Szarek Dorota , Mierzejewska Ewa Julia , Bajer Anna
Published: October 2021

Background

Two populations of Dermacentor reticulatus ticks (Western and Eastern) in Poland are among the most dynamic tick populations in Central Europe. Expansion and settlement of ticks in new localizations depend on the presence of suitable hosts, for both adult and juvenile ticks.

Methods

The current study was planned to complement our previous studies on questing adult ticks and was focused on a collection of juvenile D. reticulatus ticks from rodents from three regions in Poland, defined by the presence/absence of adult ticks (regions of the Western and Eastern tick population and the gap area between them) to confirm the existence of stable populations. Rodent trapping was conducted in open habitats (fallow lands, wasteland and submerged meadows) in 2016–2018 in June, July and/or August to encompass seasonal peaks of larvae and nymph activity.

Results

Altogether, three tick species were collected, 2866 D. reticulatus, 2141 Ixodes ricinus and 427 Haemaphysalis concinna. Dermacentor reticulatus was the most common (72.3%) and abundant (mean 17.94 ± 2.62 ticks/rodent) tick species on rodents from the Eastern region; in the Western region infestation of rodents was only 6.8%. Ixodes ricinus was found in all three regions and was the only tick species collected from rodents from the gap area. Haemaphysalis concinna was noted only in the Western region. The highest infestation of juvenile D. reticulatus was recorded on voles (Myodes and Microtus spp.), infestation of I. ricinus was the highest on Apodemus mice, and the majority of H. concinna ticks were collected from root voles Alexandromys oeconomus.

Conclusions

Our study confirmed a stable population of D. reticulatus in Eastern and Central Poland and a lower prevalence and mean abundance of this tick species among rodents from the Western region. A lack of juvenile D. reticulatus on rodents in Niewiadów confirmed the existence of the gap area, free of D. reticulatus ticks.

Graphical abstract
Myocarditis as an immune-related adverse event following treatment with ipilimumab and nivolumab combination therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Miyauchi Yasuyuki , Naito Hirohito , Tsunemori Hiroyuki , Tani Ryosuke , Hasui Yusuke , Miyake Yuichi , Minamino Tetsuo , Ishikawa Ryo , Kushida Yoshio , Haba Reiji , Sugimoto Mikio
Published: October 2021

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are new immunotherapy drugs globally used for many malignancies, including renal cell carcinoma. Myocarditis as an immune-related adverse event is rare but highly fatal, suggesting that its frequency may be higher than reported. This paper describes a case of myocarditis that developed asymptomatically following ipilimumab and nivolumab combination therapy for renal cell carcinoma.

Case presentation

A 71-year-old Asian man who presented to hospital with fever, fatigue, and weight loss of approximately 10 kg within 2 months was diagnosed with Xp.11.2 translocation renal cell carcinoma. Computed tomography revealed multiple lung masses, mediastinal lymph node enlargement, and a level II tumor thrombus reaching the inferior vena cava (cT3bN0M1; International Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Database Consortium, poor risk). Ipilimumab/nivolumab combination therapy was started as induction therapy. The patient experienced acute interstitial nephritis as an immune-related adverse event after treatment initiation; however, a good response to steroid therapy was observed. The antitumor effect of the immunotherapy was notable. Although he experienced pulmonary embolism, it seemed asymptomatic and harmless; thus, a second infusion was introduced. From the eighth day, he demonstrated rapidly worsening cardiogenic shock with asymptomatic electrocardiographic changes and drastic drop in cardiac biomarkers, and a diagnosis of myocarditis as an immune-related adverse event was made. Although immediate methylprednisolone mini-pulse therapy followed by tapered prednisolone prevented mortality, extensive myocardial fibrosis with marked ejection fraction decline persisted as a sequela. Consequently, follow-up without treatment was instituted; however, much of the tumor response initially observed was maintained over several months.

Conclusion

Physicians treating patients with immune checkpoint inhibitors should be aware of their potentially life-threatening cardiotoxic effects. This study emphasized the importance of a high index of suspicion, prompt diagnosis, and early intervention in patients who present with cardiac abnormalities and possible myocarditis after receiving immunotherapy.
Patterns of wasting among pregnant and lactating women in Uganda, 2015–2018: analysis of Nutrition surveillance data
Authors: Kyamwine Irene Byakatonda , Namukose Samalie , Wibabara Yvette , Bulage Lilian , Kwesiga Benon , Ario Alex Riolexus , Harris Julie R.
Published: October 2021

Background

Maternal nutrition is closely linked to the survival and development of children during the first 1000 days of life. Maternal wasting, a measure of malnutrition, is measured using the mid-upper arm circumference. However, in 2019, the rate and distribution of wasting among pregnant and lactating women was not known. We described annual trends and distribution of wasting among pregnant and lactating women (PLW), Uganda, 2015–2018, to inform programming on targeted nutritional interventions.

Methods

We analyzed nutrition surveillance data from the District Health Information System for all PLW from 2015 to 2018. We used the World Health Organization standard thresholds to determine wasting among PLW by year and region, drawing choropleth maps to demonstrate the geographic distribution of wasting among PLW. We used logistic regression to assess wasting trends.

Results

During 2015–2018, 268,636 PLW were wasted (prevalence = 5.5%). Of the 15 regions of Uganda, Karamoja (prevalence = 21%) and Lango (prevalence = 17%) registered the highest prevalence while Toro (prevalence = 2.7%) and Kigezi (prevalence = 2.0%) registered the lowest prevalence. The national annual prevalence of wasting among PLW declined by 31% from 2015 to 2018 (OR = 0.69, p < 0.001). Regions in the north had increasing trends of wasting over the period [Lango (OR = 1.6, p < 0.001) and Acholi (OR = 1.2, p < 0.001)], as did regions in the east [(Bugisu (OR = 3.4, p < 0.001), Bukedi (OR = 1.4, p < 0.001), and Busoga (OR = 1.3, p < 0.001)]. The other 11 regions showed declines.

Conclusion

The trend of wasting among PLW nationally declined during the study period. Lango and Acholi regions, both of which were experiencing a nutrition state of emergency during this period, had both high and rising rates of wasting, as did the Karamoja region, which experienced the highest wasting rates. We recommended that the Ministry of Health increases its focus on nutrition monitoring for PLW and conduct an analysis to clearly identify the factors underlying malnutrition specific for PLW in these regions.
Parasitological and epidemiological studies of Wuchereria bancrofti in Imobi, Ijebu East, Local Government Area of Ogun State, South Western Nigeria
Authors: Christiana Okonofua , Bamidele Akinsanya , Taiwo Idowu Emmanuel , Olubunmi Otubanjo Adetoro
Published: October 2021

Background

Lymphatic filariasis is a mosquito-borne parasitic disease caused by Wuchereria bancrofti. It is a neglected tropical disease that constitutes a public health challenge in rural endemic communities in Nigeria. This is a debilitating disease of global concern, because of its effect on per capital income and its stigmatization on affected individuals. The Program for Elimination for Lymphatic filariasis has set a goal towards possible elimination.

Results

Communities in Imobi, in Ijedu East Local Government Area in Ogun State, have been undergoing Mass Drug Administration (MDA). However, there is need for a baseline data to assess, monitor and evaluate the progress of MDA in these communities towards eventual elimination. Systematic random sampling and cluster survey were used to gather 246 participants from six communities in Imobi to a central point at the Local Government Health Centre. Parasitological diagnosis was done using microscopy, while structured questionnaires, which probed into respondents Knowledge, Attitude and Practices, were administered. An overall prevalence of 50 (20.3%) was observed with 17 (21.5%) males being more infected than 24 (19.8%) females. Prevalence of infection was significantly higher in younger age groups 4 (28.6%) than in older age groups 20 (14.6%) at p < 0.05. Overall microfilarial density of 25.7 mf/ml was obtained among infected population. Microfilariae prevalence was not observed in people that had received treatment with both albendazole and ivermectin. Higher prevalence of infection was observed in people who did not made use of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets 45 (21.1%), than in people who did 5 (15.2%). However, it was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Most of the respondents had little or no knowledge of the disease, its cause, transmission, prevention and treatment. The prevalence level is also higher than 1% for which MDA is required.

Conclusions

It is recommended that MDA be intensified in the study area, together with vector control and awareness campaign on the disease.
Cancer Survivorship in Latin America: Current Status and Opportunities
Authors: Anampa-Guzmán Andrea , Acevedo Francisco , Partridge Ann H. , Alfano Catherine M. , Nekhlyudov Larissa
Published: October 2021

PURPOSE

The number of cancer survivors is increasing globally although the status of cancer survivorship care provision and research in developing countries is limited. This study aimed to review published literature and available guidelines and/or recommendations to inform cancer survivorship care in Latin America.

METHODS

Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and SciELO were systematically searched for articles and guidelines and/or recommendations published through December 31, 2020. Our search terms included cancer, survivors, neoplasm, cancer, survivorship, survivor, follow-up studies, and the name of the countries. We categorized the articles by country, year, cancer type(s), language, and domain of cancer survivorship care. We also searched governmental health agencies websites in all Latin American countries.

RESULTS

Our literature review found 664 articles for inclusion. The number of publications increased over time. Brazil had most of the survivorship research (n = 483, 72.7%). The most common topics included surveillance and management of psychosocial effects (n = 237, 35.7%) and physical effects (n = 230, 34.6%). Prevention and surveillance for recurrences and health promotion and disease prevention were each addressed by about 10% (n = 71) of the publications. Although close to half of the publications included more than one cancer, 28.9% (n = 192) focused solely on breast cancer. We found no guidelines and/or recommendations explicitly focusing on Latin America in the reviews of the literature or the national governmental institutions' websites.

CONCLUSION

We found a growing body of cancer survivorship publications, mainly focusing on psychosocial and physical effects, although no cancer survivorship guidance and/or recommendations focused on Latin America were identified. Expanding research across Latin American countries and covering a broader spectrum of cancer survivorship care is needed. Development of guidelines may further promote provision of quality care for this growing population of cancer survivors.
Cooperative Electric Alignment of Colloidal Graphene Oxide Particles with Liquid Crystalline Niobate Nanosheets
Authors: Nakato Teruyuki , Sirinakorn Thipwipa , Ishitobi Wataru , Mouri Emiko , Ogawa Makoto
Published: October 2021

Binary colloids of two morphologically different particle species cause phase separation containing liquid crystalline phases. Although electric alignment of colloidal nanosheets has been investigated for colloidal systems consisting of single nanosheet species, that of binary nanosheet colloids has scarcely been examined. We report herein the electric alignment of aqueous binary colloids composed of niobate (NB) nanosheets from K4Nb6O17 and commercially available graphene oxide (GO) platelets. The NB–GO binary colloids show multiphase coexistence involving liquid crystalline phases induced by the NB nanosheets, whereas the employed GO particles do not contribute to the liquid crystallinity. The NB nanosheets in the binary colloids are electrically aligned in parallel to an AC voltage (1 kV cm−1 peak to peak, 50 kHz) applied to the sample. When the concentration of GO in the binary colloids is low enough, the GO particles are also electrically aligned although they hardly respond to electric field in the absence of NB nanosheets. Combined optical microscopy of bright-field, polarized, and fluorescence observations demonstrates that isolated GO particles are dragged by the aligning motion of the NB nanosheets forming liquid crystalline domains. The results indicate that collective motions of colloidal nanosheets can induce participation of isolated particles.
Sudden perceived absence of foetal movement – a unique presentation of a vertebral haemangioma in pregnancy
Authors: Devaraj Ankitha , Raoof Jamaal , Janjua Osman , Tsang Kevin , Zamir Muhammad
Published: October 2021

Objective:

Symptomatic vertebral haemangiomas that present during pregnancy are extremely uncommon with few cases reported in literature. Epidural haemangiomas are rarer still with few documented.

Methods:

In this report, we describe the case of a 22-year-old pregnant patient who presented with apparent loss of foetal movement at 38 weeks’ gestation. Clinical review demonstrated the foetus was well but neurological examination revealed lower limb paresthesia, paresis and evident uterine hypoesthesia. An MRI scan illustrated a haemangioma in the T1 vertebral body with an epidural component causing cord compression.

Results:

The management of spinal haemangiomas that present during pregnancy is a complex clinical scenario, which requires careful multidisciplinary consideration to determine if surgical intervention is appropriate. In this case, the patient had an emergency caesarean section followed by posterior decompression and laminectomy of the T1 vertebra with excellent post-operative recovery.

Conclusion:

Gestational increase in the size of vertebral haemangiomas is well documented. We discuss a rare case in which a young pregnant patient presents with an atypical symptom of a vertebral haemangioma (uterine hypoesthesia). This case highlights the importance of prompt imaging in these scenarios and a cohesive multidisciplinary approach in order to provide optimal treatment for the patient.
The Metrics of Seto Choral Laments in the Context of Runosong Metrics
Authors: Oras Janika , Pärtlas Žanna , Sarv Mari , Kalkun Andreas
Published: October 2021

The aim of this paper is to get an overview of the lament metrics in Seto oral song tradition, which belongs to the southern border area of the Finnic song tradition, and the placement and historical development of lament metrics in the framework of the whole Seto oral song tradition. In the paper the metrical structures of two main genres of Seto choral laments – choral bridal laments and death laments – are analysed that share common features with solo laments and are similar to the structures of Seto runosongs. Metrical structures of the laments are detected based on sound recordings, taking into account the linguistic structure of the lines and the varied realization of it in a musical performance rhythm.

The analysis showed that laments’ metrics where 5-unit end structures play an important role, differs the most from the main body of runosongs and is structurally more similar to a group of runosongs with refrains and varying line length. Outlining the development patterns of the metrical system of Seto songs, the influences of local unique musical tradition with varied rhythmic structures atypical of the most runosong area, specific functions of ritual song genres, historical changes in language, as well as possible external connections to early eastern and southern song cultures are highlighted.
Collaborating with Language Community Members to Enrich Ethnographic Descriptions in a Language Archive
Authors: Burke Mary
Published: October 2021

Language archives connect users such as language communities, linguists, and other researchers, to language data. As the language archiving community develops, concerns have been raised about the ethics, ownership, accessibility, and context of archival materials. While there are no simple solutions to these questions, many language archives are seeking ways to involve language community members in these conversations as they continue. This presentation describes a pilot project undertaken at the Computational Resource for South Asian Languages (CoRSAL) which explores a collaborative archiving approach to enable language community members to tell their own stories by adding contextual information to archival materials.
Challenges in Heritage Language Documentations: BraPoRus, Spoken Corpus of Heritage Russian in Brazil
Authors: Smirnova Henriques Anna , Skorobogatova Aleksandra , Ruseishvili Svetlana , Madureira Sandra , Sekerina Irina
Published: October 2021

The Bolshevik revolution in 1917, followed by the Civil War, induced a big wave of emigration from the ex-Russian Empire. These emigrants created their “Russia Abroad”. Many Russians stayed in Europe or China, but, in the 1940s and 1950s, many of them went to the USA, Latin America and other destinations. The importance of preserving the memories and documents of the old waves of the Russian emigration is crucial. Our group is collecting a corpus of heritage Russian in Brazil, the BRAzilian POrtuguese RUSsian Corpus (BraPoRus). While the history of Russian immigration in Brazil is to some extent studied, their remarkably preserved Russian has not been described. Our current aim is to describe the BraPoRus, a corpus that consists of multiple speech samples of older Russian heritage speakers in Brazil, and to discuss the best ways to make these data available in the forms that satisfy the requirements both for the linguistic and sociological research.
Retos en el ordenamiento territorial para el abastecimiento hídrico de la aglomeración urbana-Manizales-Villamaría.
Authors: Alarcón García Sharon Johana
Published: October 2021

El presente documento se enmarca dentro de la actual problemática de desabastecimiento hídrico evidenciada por el Estudio Nacional del Agua del 2018, que señala que la Subzona Hidrográfica del río Chinchiná presenta un índice crítico de Presión Hídrica Ecosistémica, y el municipio de Villamaría es susceptible al desabastecimiento hídrico. En este sentido, el ordenamiento territorial como proyecto colectivo para el territorio, basado en los principios de sostenibilidad y gobernanza se constituye como una herramienta fundamental para garantizar el adecuado estado de ecosistemas que permita prestar servicios ecosistémicos como abastecimiento hídrico en calidad y cantidad para el bienestar social. Asimismo, es necesario reflexionar acerca de los retos en el ordenamiento territorial frente a la construcción de territorios urbano-rurales sostenibles, pues el abastecimiento hídrico, entendido como un servicio ecosistémico, dependen de la conservación y restauración de los ecosistemas y su biodiversidad.
Recortes espaciales que configuran el Oriente antioqueño: de la región a la superposición de territorialidades
Authors: Pineda Gómez Hernán Dario
Published: October 2021

El proceso de transformación del Oriente antioqueño y su configuración como espacio de la globalización permite entenderlo hoy como una suma de recortes espaciales cruzados por una superposición de territorialidades, que tensionan el uso y apropiación de dicho espacio en fun­ción de los múltiples intereses de regirlo, ordenarlo y envolverlo. El detonante de este proceso está anclado a un proyecto de regionalización funcional derivado del movimiento industrial desde la década de los 70, el cual fue forjando polígonos de borde, fragmentos subsidiarios de un proyecto de competitividad-desarrollista que se mantiene actualmente. De forma paralela, en diferentes momentos históricos han ido emergiendo territorialidades de diversa índole: unas solidarias con el proyecto económico, asociadas a una idea de intervención en diversas escalas; y otras, de la contigüidad, ligadas a un proyecto político social que reivindica la autonomía de la metrópoli, con una apuesta más horizontal. Por ello la idea de Oriente como una región administrativa homogénea, que aún es usada en procesos de planeación, carece de sustento geográfico y político.
Autonomía universitaria y capitalismo cognitivo. Una aproximación a la idea de universidad
Authors: Vargas Arbeláez Esther Juliana
Published: October 2021

Este libro aborda la idea de la universidad en tiempos del capitalismo cognitivo; trabaja el diagnóstico recurrente de la crisis de la universidad por cuenta de la mercantilización del saber, la taylorización de los procesos universitarios y la cooptación estructural de la universidad por parte del sistema productivo, y defiende que si se asume la búsqueda de autonomía universitaria como un horizonte abierto, entonces ello se dará en relación con las coacciones del mercado y abrirá la posibilidad de que se planteen alternativas a la universidad-en-los-bordes, en fuga o nómada. Así, el libro apuesta por reivindicar la reapropiación del conocimiento en el mundo universitario, es decir, por afirmar la institución universitaria, a partir de una reflexión sobre el conocimiento como horizonte de la acción política, sobre la autonomía y sobre la necesidad de la institución del conocimiento.
Teaching Systems Thinking in Higher Education
Authors: Elsawah Sondoss , Ho Allen Tim Luen , Ryan Michael J.
Published: October 2021

Systems thinking is recognized as an essential skill for understanding complex problem solving and decision making associated with many of the contemporary issues faced by individuals and communities. In this article, our goal is to contribute to the knowledge of curriculum and pedagogy of formal systems thinking teaching in higher education. We believe that accumulating this knowledge can provide a better foundation for including systems thinking in higher-educational programs. To achieve this goal, the purpose of this study is to examine whether the use of a set of systems thinking concepts and methods can effectively promote systems thinking in higher-education settings. The study shows that systems thinking skills can be promoted effectively through the delivery of a combination of systems thinking methods and concepts.