bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overview of recent cases before the European Court of Human Rights (October 2021 – February 2022)
Authors: De Becker Eleni
Published: May 2022

In this reporting period (October 2021 – February 2022), four cases before the European Court of Human Rights (hereinafter: ECtHR) will be presented. 2 The first case is Šaltinytė v. Lithuania (application no. 32934/19), dealing with a housing subsidy only available to young families of low income. The Court had to review this benefit scheme in light of the prohibition of discrimination in Article 14 European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and the right to property in Article 1 Protocol no. 1 to the ECHR (hereinafter: P1 ECHR). The second section discusses a case concerning retrospective changes in the Italian survivors’ pension scheme having an impact on ongoing procedures against the Italian Government. The Court had to review whether this change in the legislation was compatible with the right to a fair trial in Article 6 ECHR ( D’Amico v. Italy, application no. 46586/14). Hamzagić v. Croatia is the third case that will be discussed (application no. 68437/13). It concerns the refusal to grant a disability pension, where the applicant argued that no adequate legal framework was in place to review the opinions of experts concerning the applicant’s invalidity for a disability pension. Finally, this overview ends with a discussion of Botoyan v. Armenia (application no. 5766/17), where the ECtHR had to review the relevant legal framework in place in case of medical malpractice, taking into account the right to private life in Article 8 ECHR.
Socioeconomic differences in the association between maternal age and maternal obesity: a register-based study of 707,728 women in Finland
Authors: Roustaei Zahra , Räisänen Sari , Gissler Mika , Heinonen Seppo
Published: May 2022

Aims:

To examine the association between maternal age and maternal obesity across socioeconomic groups and to determine whether socioeconomic status modifies the association between maternal age and maternal obesity with a view to informing public health policies.

Methods:

Data for this register-based study were sourced from the Finnish Medical Birth Register and Statistics Finland, using the information of 707,728 women who gave birth in Finland from 2004 to 2015. We used multivariable regression models to assess the association between maternal age and maternal obesity across socioeconomic groups. We further assessed interactions on both multiplicative and additive scales.

Results:

Across all socioeconomic groups, the adjusted odds ratio for the association between maternal age and maternal obesity increased, peaking for women 35 years or older. Using women below 20 years of age in the category of upper-level employees as a single reference group, in the category of upper-level employees, the adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals among women 35 years or older was 1.92 (1.39–2.64) for maternal obesity. Equally, the adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals in the category of long-term unemployed was 4.35 (3.16–5.98). Synergistic interactions on both multiplicative and additive scales were found across age and socioeconomic groups.

Conclusions:

The association between maternal age and maternal obesity was strongest among women 35 years or older with lower socioeconomic status. Population-level interventions that address maternal risk factors from teenage years are needed alongside individual-level interventions that target high-risk mothers in areas of low socioeconomic status and maternal obesity.
Validity of self-reported educational level in the Tromsø Study
Authors: Vo Chi Q , Samuelsen Per-Jostein , Sommerseth Hilde L , Wisløff Torbjørn , Wilsgaard Tom , Eggen Anne E
Published: May 2022

Background:

Self-reported data on educational level have been collected for decades in the Tromsø Study, but their validity has yet to be established.

Aim:

To investigate the completeness and correctness of self-reported educational level in the Tromsø Study, using data from Statistics Norway. In addition, we explored the consequence of using these two data sources on educational trends in cardiometabolic diseases.

Methods:

We compared self-reported and Statistics Norway-recorded educational level (primary, upper secondary, college/university <4 years, and college/university ⩾4 years) among 20,615 participants in the seventh survey of the Tromsø Study (Tromsø7, 2015–2016). Sensitivity, positive predictive value and weighted kappa were used to measure the validity of self-reported educational level in three age groups (40–52, 53–62, 63–99 years). Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare educational trends in cardiometabolic diseases between self-reported and Statistics Norway-recorded educational level.

Results:

Sensitivity of self-reported educational level was highest among those with a college/university education of 4 years or more (⩾97% in all age groups and both sexes). Sensitivity for primary educational level ranged from 67% to 92% (all age groups and both sexes). The lowest positive predictive value was observed among women with a college/university education of 4 years or more (29–46%). Weighted kappa was substantial (0.52–0.59) among men and moderate to substantial (0.41–0.51) among women. Educational trends in the risk of cardiometabolic diseases were less pronounced when self-reported educational level was used.

Conclusions:

Self-reported educational level in Tromsø7 is adequately complete and correct. Self-reported data may produce weaker associations between educational level and cardiometabolic diseases than registry-based data.
Hot-corrosion behaviour of CNT reinforced Cr3C2-NiCr coatings working under high-temperature sprayed by HVOF method
Authors: Kuruba Manjunatha , Gaikwad Giridhara , Shivalingappa D
Published: May 2022

The thermal power plant boiler tubes experience degradation of their surfaces due to oxidation and molten salt corrosion while working at elevated temperatures. The formation of protective coating layers can overcome such surface degradation. In the current research, protective coated layers composed of Cr3C2-25% NiCr/Carbon nanotube coatings are deposited on the ASTM SA-213T12 boiler tube substrate by the High-Velocity Oxy-Fuel (HVOF) thermal method. The coating powder Cr3C2-25%NiCr is reinforced with 3, 5 and 7 wt% of Multi-Wall Carbon Nano-Tube (MWCNT) prior to deposition. The uncoated and coated specimens are evaluated for hot corrosion behaviour in the molten salt environment (Na2SO4 + 60%V2O5) for 50 cycles, constituting 1 h of heating at 600 °C. Thermogravimetric analysis is used to investigate the kinetics of hot corrosion behaviour in both coated and uncoated samples. Coatings are characterized with the help of X-ray diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscope/Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) techniques. Microstructural investigations with the help of SEM/EDS and X-ray diffraction of coated and uncoated samples revealed that 7 wt% of CNT coated samples minimized the voids and pores of the coatings, leading to better interlocking with the substrate surface. Furthermore, it is observed in the studies that the appreciable corrosion resistance of 7 wt% of CNT composite coatings is higher than 3 and 5 wt% of CNT-coated and uncoated samples.
Dynamic response analysis of functionally graded gears
Authors: Singh Bikramjit , Mulik RS , Harsha SP
Published: May 2022

In this study, dynamic response analysis of functionally graded gears (FGGs) has been performed using a 6-degree of freedom dynamic model. The pinion and gear are divided into homogeneous sub-domains of uniform thickness, conforming to the gear tooth profile. The material composition varies radially according to power-law gradation with metal at the innermost and ceramic at the outermost surface. Mesh stiffness and transmission error of FGGs have been evaluated using a finite-element-based numerical method employing contact analysis. Results show that for considered values of gradient index (GI), FGGs show a 10% to 50% reduction in mesh stiffness with a 30% to 60% reduction in weight compared to steel gears of exact specifications. Also, FGGs show a 4% to 12% reduction in dynamic factor and a 9% to 17% reduction in peak-to-peak displacement amplitude than steel gears over the selected values of GI.
The episteme(s) around Roma historiography: Genealogical fantasy reexamined
Authors: Ray Avishek
Published: May 2022

Since the 18th century, scholars have been claiming that Romani people originated from India. Folkloristists, ethnographers, linguists and demographers alike have sought to identify, classify and characterize the ‘Roma traits’ and map them onto an imagined notion of Indian-hood. Meanwhile, India has reappropriated the originary claim and started to embrace the Roma community as one of their ‘own’. This paper focuses on the epistemic and political implications of ascribing an ‘Indian origin’ to the Roma. How do scholars and savants seek to understand Roma populations with reference to their purported Indian origin and what does it entail epistemologically? To what extent is the ‘scientific’ legibility of the Roma’s origin structured around ideologies of the prevailing episteme? Here, I situate the theory of the Indian origin as a ‘field’ and argue that its foundation has revolved less around the question of ‘scientific’ methods and their validity than around reinforcing the episteme in question.
Mobility for teacher students or teacher students for mobility? Unravelling policy discourses on international student mobility in the context of teacher education
Authors: Dyred Pedersen Tea
Published: May 2022

Forming part of the efforts to internationalise European higher education, international student mobility has become a key activity strongly supported and promoted by policymakers. In particular, the mobility of teacher students has become a more prominent issue over the past decades. However, to this date there is a lack of research focussing on this specific aspect of higher education mobility policies. Drawing on the analytical framework of discursive institutionalism, this article critically explores policy discourses on teacher student mobility as they emerge in a range of historical and contemporary European and Norwegian policy texts. Subsequently, it discusses how such discourses presuppose the function of teacher education and future teachers in the political agendas on internationalisation and mobility. The study finds that mobility in the context of teacher education is legitimated and promoted with discourses of harmonisation, professionalisation and instrumentalisation, and argues that these discourses are ambiguous and obscure the purpose of both the activity of mobility itself, as well as teacher education and what it educates for, with potential implications for how mobility policies can be realised. In doing so, the article contributes to a critical discussion about the drivers behind contemporary policies for internationalisation and mobility in higher education.
Context-aware module for evaporative cooling in the outdoor built environment
Authors: Stojanovic Djordje , Vujovic Milica , Ding Yi , Katic Milan
Published: May 2022

This paper introduces modular and context-aware evaporative cooling for the outdoor urban environment as a physical structure that could be implemented at various scales and physical contexts. We propose a technique for collecting occupancy and climatic data to create a computational context and optimise its operation. We then outline a concept for developing a predictive algorithm that would further enhance its performance. The research focuses on the interaction between the proposed system and the environment and establishes an evidence-based technique to balance the temperature drop and the humidity it generates. The study combines architectural design, mechanical engineering and computer science to enable the upscaled application of evaporative cooling to help reduce local heat accumulation in cities.
The Potential Use of Propolis as an Adjunctive Therapy in Breast Cancers
Authors: Hermansyah Dedy , Zulhendri Felix , Perera Conrad O. , Firsty Naufal N. , Chandrasekaran Kavita , Abdulah Rizky , Herman Herry , Lesmana Ronny
Published: May 2022

Propolis is a resinous beehive product that has a wide range of biological activities, namely antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Propolis is collected by the bees from plant resin and exudates to protect hives and maintain hive homeostasis. The aim of the present systematic scoping review is to explore the potential and suitability of propolis as an adjunctive treatment in breast cancers, based on the latest available experimental evidence (2012-2021). After applying the exclusion criteria, a total of 83 research publications were identified and retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and Pubmed. Several relevant key themes identified from the included studies were cytotoxicity, synergistic/combination treatment, improvement in bioavailability, human clinical trials, and others. A majority of the studies identified were still in the in vitro and in vivo stages. Nonetheless, we managed to identify 4 human clinical trials that demonstrated the successful use of propolis in alleviating side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy while increasing the quality of life of breast cancer patients, with minimal adverse effects. In conclusion, propolis, as an adjunctive treatment, may have therapeutic benefits in alleviating symptoms related to breast cancers. However, further clinical trials, preferably with higher number of participants/subjects/patients, are urgently needed.
Developing Meaning: Critical Violence and Eudaimonic Entertainment in the Seventh Console Generation
Authors: Maier-Zucchino Evan Jules
Published: May 2022

Violence in videogames has been a controversial topic since the medium’s inception, but how videogames depict violence has changed dramatically over time. During the seventh console generation, several development studios implemented similar design mechanisms that allowed players to engage in ethically challenging virtual violence through morally compromised characters, contexts, and systems. Fourteen AAA games released between the years of 2007 and 2013 encouraged critical reflection on the ethical qualities of that violence, resulting in a phenomenon I term “critical violence”. Following an overview of the ethics of videogames and a brief history of changes in the industry, this paper performs a comparative analysis of four games, two that engage in critical violence and two that do not, elucidating the techniques used to generate such criticality: defamiliarization, narrative character studies, systemic design, and aesthetic style. These approaches demonstrate that violence in videogames can be a useful element for communicating meaningful experiences.
Effects of 3-Methyladenine on Microglia Autophagy and Neuronal Apoptosis After Radiation-Induced Brain Injury
Authors: Feng Huichao , Cui Yahuan , Liu Jing , Liu Meiyi , Zhou Wei , Yan Zhenyu , Zhang Haixia , Wang Yingman , Wang Xueming , Liu Xiaomin , Chen Naiyao
Published: May 2022

Objective

To determine the effect of the autophagy inhibitor, 3-methyladenine (3-MA), on cognitive function changes, microglia activity, neuronal apoptosis, and inflammation in rats following radiation-induced brain injury.

Methods

The following groups were established: control, model, and 3-MA. A rat model of radiation-induced brain injury was generated with a medium dose of X-rays. A Morris water maze was used to observe the cognitive function of the rats. H&E staining was used to observe the pathological changes in the hippocampus. The morphological and quantitative changes of neuronal nuclear (NeuN)-positive neurons and Iba-1-positive microglia in the ipsilateral hippocampus were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Western blot analysis was done to measure the changes of NeuN ionized calcium binding adapter molecule 1(Iba-1) and apoptosis-related proteins. Immunofluorescence staining of Iba-1 and Microtuble-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3) was done to evaluate the changes in microglia autophagy. TUNEL staining was used to detect apoptosis in the hippocampus. Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay was used to detect the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 as a measure of the inflammatory response in the hippocampus.

Results

After irradiation, the nucleus of the neurons in the hippocampus was constricted, the pyramidal tract structure was disordered, neuronal apoptosis was increased ( P < .001), the expression of microglia increased ( P < .01), autophagy was increased ( P < .05), and conversion of microglia to the M2 type increased ( P < .05). After 3-MA administration, the level of autophagy decreased ( P < .05), the damage to the hippocampal region was reduced, neuronal apoptosis decreased ( P < .01), and the activity of the microglia decreased ( P < .01).

Conclusion

Radiation can active the Microglia. 3-MA inhibits autophagy and excessive activity in microglia, and promotes the conversion of microglia from the M1 to the M2 type, thereby promoting the recovery of brain tissue following radiation exposure.
ANCA-associated vasculitis with abdominal aortic aneurysm : Case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Jiawei , Xu Yong , Wang Gang
Published: May 2022

Introduction

ANCA-associated vasculitis is an autoimmune disease that usually involves the small vessel walls. It is difficult to find the presence of ANCA-associated vasculitis in the great arteries, especially the thoracic and abdominal aorta.

Methods

This is an 86-year-old Chinese man with ANCA-associated vasculitis and abdominal aortic aneurysm who presented with epigastric pain. Considering his age and physical condition, the patient was treated with methylprednisolone and mycophenolate mofetil instead of surgery.

Results

The patient’s epigastric pain symptoms were relieved after 2 months of conservative treatment. Imaging at follow-up 2 years later showed signs of aneurysm enlargement because of irregular medication.

Conclusions

Patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis combined with aortic aneurysm often require surgical management. But for patients with stable disease and poor physical conditions, conservative treatment is also an effective treatment method, which can bring benefits to the patient’s survival.
The predictive value of internal carotid artery wall thickness in computed tomography angiography to avoid complications of plaque removal failure in modified eversion carotid endarterectomy
Authors: Kahraman Nail , Yümün Gündüz , Demir Deniz , Topal Dursun , Özsin Kadir Kaan , Sünbül Sadık Ahmet , Taner Temmuz , Özyaprak Buket , Göncü Mehmet Tuğrul
Published: May 2022

Aim

The benefits of computed tomography carotid angiography (CTA) in terms of evaluating the anatomical structure of the carotid arteries, surgical planning, and evaluating possible risks were reported in previous studies. This study aimed to calculate the predictive value of internal carotid wall thickness in CTA that can predict whether a modified carotid eversion endarterectomy (MCEE) will result in a successful or not.

Method

This study was designed in a retrospective cross-sectional format. Consecutive 83 symptomatic carotid surgery patients who were operated in our hospital and had CTA were included in this study. The wall thickness of the internal carotid artery (ICA) 20 mm distal from the carotid bifurcation was calculated in axial sections using a three-dimensional imaging technique. In addition, all patients’ characteristics and laboratory findings were recorded. Patients who failed MCEE and required classical carotid endarterectomy were compared with patients who had successful MCEE.

Results

MCEE technique was applied to 62 patients. In 21 patients, the MCEE technique failed and the classical endarterectomy technique was required. Preoperative clinical and laboratory characteristics were similar in both groups. The mean ICA wall thickness was 0.65 mm 20 mm distal to from the carotid bifurcation and it was lower in the group with successful MCEE (1.03 ± 0.21 mm vs. 0.56 ± 0.08 mm) ( p < 0.001). The critical ICA wall thickness was calculated as 0.76 mm in the group that MCEE failed and classical carotid endarterectomy was required. Cut-off analysis of ICA wall thickness was calculated as 0.755 mm in ROC analysis ( p < 0.001), (95% confidence interval, curve area; 0.985).

Conclusion

Successful carotid endarterectomy with the MCEE method is associated with distal ICA wall thickness and distal extension of the atheroma plate. The use of ICA wall thickness 20 mm distal to from the bifurcation as a predictive value for the success of the MCEE technique is beneficial to avoid serious complications.
Strawman argument characterises critique of Kamin blocking effect
Authors: Seraganian Peter
Published: May 2022

This commentary focuses on the robustness of the Kamin blocking effect (KBE) that Maes et al., based upon 15 failures to replicate, have questioned. This challenge to KBE robustness has not gone unaddressed. Soto outlined conceptual as well as methodological issues that cast doubt on the validity of the Maes et al. critique. Despite recognition of certain interpretive issues, Maes et al. have reaffirmed that their failures to replicate are meaningful and call out for further parametric scrutiny of KBE. Faced with such marked differences of opinion with regard to KBE robustness, the present commentary highlights certain methodological features that may have contributed to the Maes et al. failures to replicate: (a) Roles of stimulus salience and independence, (b) Multiple test trials, and (c) Reliance on a single control procedure. It is suggested that the existence of such methodological issues renders it fallacious to argue that the Maes et al. findings represent a true failure to replicate KBE. Instead, the present formulation contends that Maes et al. engaged in a strawman argument in which they have found fault with a distorted version of KBE rather than KBE itself. Although employing variations of paradigms that had earlier been seen to generate KBE, the presence of multiple methodological shortcomings was such as to effectively mask observance of KBE. In affirmation of the Soto’s critique, the replication failure reported by Maes et al. is thus seen as unsurprising. Accordingly, the Maes et al. proposal to remove KBE as a “touchstone for our theories of elementary learning” is argued to be unwarranted. In the face of this protracted dispute, the positing of a strawman argument serves to further cast doubt upon the import of the Maes et al. replication failure, and consequently, to reaffirm KBE as a core phenomenon in the learning domain.
The role of the bedside assistant in robot-assisted surgery: A critical synthesis
Authors: Britton Carolina Relvas , Francis Indu , Tay Li June , Krishnamoothy Bhuvaneswari
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Robot-assisted surgery has grown exponentially since its inception and first approval in the United States in the year 2000. The surgeon operating with the assistance of the robot sits remotely to the patient and another practitioner assists at the bedside. The role of the bedside assistant and the training that is required to undertake this role are understudied topics.

Aim:

To explore the functions, training and professional development of the bedside assistant in robot-assisted surgery and propose the necessary foundations for the safe enactment of the role in the United Kingdom.

Methods:

Through critical interpretative synthesis, relevant literature was systematically searched and analysed to inform integration of evidence.

Results:

Seventy-three studies were retrieved from the literature, across several health care disciplines and surgical specialities. These were critically analysed to inform a theoretically sound account grounded on evidence.

Conclusion:

The role, functions and skills of the bedside assistant in robot-assisted surgery vary across contexts. These were analysed and critically synthetised to produce several keys to the success of bedside assistants in robot-assisted surgery in the context of the United Kingdom and of its national regulations.
Another perspective regarding the 2020 War in Karabakh: The relationship between a frozen conflict and securitization
Authors: Kurt Selim , Tüysüzoğlu Göktürk
Published: May 2022

One of the most critical disputes in the Post-Soviet space is the long-lasting Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia. While this issue has long been regarded as a land-based dispute to a large extent, it can also be stated from the securitization perspective that it is a conflict inherent in ethnic identity. The proposed way to solve a problem in the securitization approach is the desecuritization of the issue. However, negotiations conducted by the Minsk Group on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, which were initiated within the framework of the OSCE, did not yield any results. In this context, the process of resolving the issue through negotiations, in other words, desecuritization, failed. This has led to the re-securitization of the problem and paved the way for taking extraordinary measures to come to a solution. The final military confrontation experienced in 2020 has also been triggered specifically by this approach.
Comparing blood biomarkers to clinical decision rules to select patients suspected of traumatic brain injury for head computed tomography
Authors: Li Ying , Ding Victoria Y , Chen Hui , Zhu Guangming , Jiang Bin , Boothroyd Derek , Rezaii Paymon G , Bet Anthony M , Paulino Amy D , Weber Art , Glushakova Olena Y , Hayes Ronald L , Wintermark Max
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major public health concern in the U.S. Recommendations for patients admitted in the emergency department (ED) to receive head computed tomography (CT) scan are currently guided by various clinical decision rules.

Objective

To compare how a blood biomarker approach compares with clinical decision rules in terms of predicting a positive head CT in adult patients suspected of TBI.

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients transported to our emergency department and underwent a noncontrast head CT due to suspicion of TBI and who had blood samples available. Published thresholds for serum and plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1), and serum S100β were used to make CT recommendations. These blood biomarker-based recommendations were compared to those achieved under widely used clinical head CT decision rules (Canadian, New Orleans, NEXUS II, and ACEP Clinical Policy).

Results

Our study included 463 patients, of which 122 (26.3%) had one or more abnormalities presenting on head CT. Individual blood biomarkers achieved high negative predictive value (NPV) for abnormal head CT findings (88%–98%), although positive predictive value (PPV) was consistently low (25%–42%). A composite biomarker-based decision rule (GFAP+UCH-L1)’s NPV of 100% and PPV of 29% were comparable or better than those achieved under the clinical decision rules.

Conclusion

Blood biomarkers perform at least as well as clinical rules in terms of selecting TBI patients for head CT and may be easier to implement in the clinical setting. A prospective study is necessary to validate this approach.
COVID-19-induced psoriatic arthritis: a case report
Authors: Essien Francis , Chastant Lisa , McNulty Collen , Hubbard Matthew , Lynette Luria , Carroll Matthew
Published: May 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which may lead to uncontrolled immune activation and cytokine response in some. The pattern of pro-inflammatory cytokines is similar to that which has been observed to be involved in rheumatic diseases and target treatments. Viral arthritis is common with a wide variety in spectrum ranging from arthralgia to spurious and chronic arthritis. However, recent studies have demonstrated a correlation with endemic coronaviruses and increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Cases are being identified that describe a post-COVID reactive; however, to date, no report has been published describing the onset of psoriasis and concomitant development of psoriatic arthritis after COVID-19 infection. We report an interesting case of psoriatic arthritis in a post-COVID-19 infection patient with review of the current literature.
Practices and associated factors of infection prevention of nurses working in public and private hospitals toward COVID-19 in Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia: Institution-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Eyayu Mekuanint , Motbainor Achenef , Gizachew Beselam
Published: May 2022

Objective:

To assess the levels of practices and associated factors of infection prevention of nurses working in public and private hospitals toward coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia.

Methods:

Institution-based cross-sectional study design employed in public and private hospitals in Bahir Dar city from 26 March 2021 to 8 April 2021. A total of 442 study participants were recruited using stratified followed by simple random sampling techniques. A self-administered questionnaire was prepared and pretested on 5% of the total sample. The collected data were checked for completeness and consistency, and then the data were coded, entered, and cleaned with SPSS version 25 software. Descriptive statistics were carried out to display the means and proportions of sociodemographic characteristics. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between the level of prevention practices and the independent variables. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used to report the results. A significant association was set at p-value <0.05.

Results:

Of the total 442 samples, 431 (with response rate of 97.5%) answered the questions completely. The mean (±standard deviation) age of the participants was 29.33 (±5.62) years and 217 (50.3%) were females. The proportion of good prevention practices of nurses toward COVID-19 was 39.4% (95% confidence interval: 35%–44%). Female (adjusted odds ratio = 1.77, 95% confidence interval: 1.18–2.68), have training on COVID-19 (adjusted odds ratio = 1.65, 95% confidence interval: 1.10–2.48), personal protective equipment access (adjusted odds ratio = 1.57, 95% confidence interval: 1.01–2.44), availability of infection prevention guideline (adjusted odds ratio = 1.63, 95% confidence interval: 1.06–2.49), and favorable attitude (adjusted odds ratio = 2.05, 95% confidence interval: 1.25–3.36) were factors significantly associated with good infection prevention practices.

Conclusion:

Most nurses in Bahir Dar City public and private hospitals had poor prevention practices against COVID-19. Training provision, infection prevention guidelines distribution, sustainable personal protective equipment access, and promotion to change their attitudes are intervention areas that required emphasis.
Impending spontaneous tracheal rupture due to steroid use
Authors: Koh Yi Zhe , Sewa Duu Wen , Soo Ing Xiang
Published: May 2022

A spontaneous tracheal rupture is rare and life-threatening. We postulate that long-term steroid administration is an under-reported risk factor. We present a case of an impending spontaneous tracheal rupture in a 51-year-old female with a significant medical history of systemic lupus erythematosus and interstitial lung disease, and a drug history of chronic steroid intake for 9 months. An impending tracheal rupture was diagnosed by computed tomography, which prompted surgery. A right thoracotomy, followed by a posterior tracheal repair via an intercostal muscle flap, was done, with venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support throughout the operation.
Guillain–Barré syndrome following coronavirus disease vaccine: First report from Nepal
Authors: Luitel Prajjwol , Poudel Bibek , Upadhyay Devansh , Paudel Sujan , Tiwari Nishan , Gajurel Bikram Prasad , Karn Ragesh , Rajbhandari Reema , Shrestha Aashish , Gautam Niraj , Ojha Rajeev
Published: May 2022

ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 is an effective and well-tolerated coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine. However, rare cases of serious adverse events have been reported with it. We report a patient who did not have active or prior coronavirus disease 2019 infection, who developed Guillain–Barré syndrome 7 days following the first dose of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination. He was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin, with stabilization of the disease. Proper monitoring and prompt reporting of such cases are required to ensure the safety of the vaccine.
Lyme Carditis Complicated by Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia and Cardiac Arrest: A Case Report
Authors: Esfandiari Negar , Beebe-Peat Tanesha , Quinlan Anna , Wagner Beth , Wark Tyler , Lobel Robert
Published: May 2022

Lyme disease is commonly encountered in endemic areas of the United States harboring the causal organism Borrelia burgdorferi. Lyme carditis can manifest in early disseminated infections, usually as atrioventricular nodal blockade. Timely antibiotic therapy typically suppresses myocardial inflammation and reverses cardiac conduction disturbances. We present a case of a previously healthy male who presented to the emergency department with non-prodromal syncope, multifocal annular rashes, and antecedent inflammatory knee pain and effusion, found to have positive 2-tier Lyme testing and pause-dependent polymorphic ventricular tachycardia leading to cardiac arrest. Lyme carditis occurs in early disseminated infections but rarely leads to cardiac arrest. Acute management is entrained in well-established guidelines for therapy, and together with risk stratification scoring can be considered by emergency care physicians in the workup of undifferentiated syncope with concern for Lyme disease with cardiac involvement.
Post COVID-19 Lymphocytic Hypophysitis: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Joshi Meha , Gunawardena Sanuri , Goenka Ajay , Ey Elizabeth , Kumar Gogi
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Lymphocytic hypophysitis (LH) is a rare autoimmune disorder involving the destruction of the anterior pituitary due to lymphocytic infiltration. The disease shows a female predominance, commonly affecting women during late pregnancy into the postpartum period. The etiology of LH has not been well established and is presumed to be autoimmune based on the histopathological findings of lymphocytic infiltration and postpartum cases. Lymphocytic hypophysitis has yet to be studied in the context of a patient status post-recovery from COVID-19. Since the initial outbreak, additional information regarding the symptoms and outcomes has emerged on the virus's effects on the nervous system. Case: We present a novel case of post-COVID lymphocytic hypophysitis in a pediatric patient at Dayton Children's Hospital. An 18-year-old previously healthy girl presented to the emergency department (ED) with acute onset headache and dizziness for 5 days. She had a history of symptomatic COVID-19 three weeks prior to the onset of current symptoms. Contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed diffuse thickening and enlargement of the infundibulum with homogenous contrast enhancement of the hypophyseal axis. Based on the suspicion for lymphocytic hypophysitis, she was started on Methylprednisolone 250 mg IV Q6hrs on day 1-3. Symptomatic clinical improvement was seen on day 3 with a significant decrease in the intensity of the headache. Conclusion: The case illustrates the varied presentation and neurological sequalae associated with the COVID-19 virus. The case described here is the first ever reported post-COVID manifestation of lymphocytic hypophysitis.
Revisiting Lamin Sanneh’s “Western Guilt Complex” from a Grassroots Perspective
Authors: Yu K. Kale
Published: May 2022

In his critique of the so-called Western guilt complex, the late Lamin Sanneh challenged scholars and Christians to consider the transmission of Christianity beyond the scope of Western perspectives. This article revisits Sanneh’s seminal work to discuss the ways the Western guilt complex undermines our ability to understand indigenous knowledge systems, which inform and stimulate religious sensibilities. In examining postcolonial reflections on Christian transmissions, this article considers grassroot perspectives as critical in interpreting Christianizing processes that are outside ecclesiastical authority and leadership.
Impact of Asymptomatic Flatfoot on Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of the Modified Lapidus Procedure in Patients With Hallux Valgus
Authors: Rajan Lavan , Kim Jaeyoung , Fuller Robert , Cororaton Agnes , Mizher Rami , Srikumar Syian , Ellis Scott J.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Patients with hallux valgus commonly present with concomitant flatfoot deformity. First-ray hypermobility, among other biomechanical factors, has been suggested as a potential link between these deformities. However, not all hallux valgus patients exhibit symptoms associated with flatfoot deformity, and the necessity of correcting the asymptomatic flatfoot at the time of hallux valgus correction is unclear. We aimed to investigate the relationship between asymptomatic flatfoot and patient-reported and radiographic outcomes after the Lapidus procedure.

Methods:

This study included 142 patients who underwent the Lapidus procedure for hallux valgus at a single institution. Sixty-one patients met radiographic criteria for flatfoot. No patients exhibited symptoms related to flatfoot deformity on review of clinical notes. Preoperative, minimum 1-year postoperative, and change in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores between asymptomatic flatfoot and control groups were compared. Radiographic outcomes including hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), Meary angle, talonavicular coverage angle (TNCA), and calcaneal pitch (CP) were compared.

Results:

Preoperatively, the flatfoot group had higher BMI 22.6 vs 24.6 ( P < .01) and IMA 15.32 vs 14.0 degrees ( P < .05). Both groups demonstrated preoperative to postoperative improvement in PROMIS physical function ( P < .01), pain interference ( P < .001), pain intensity ( P < .001), and global physical health ( P < .001). There were no preoperative or postoperative differences in PROMIS scores between groups. Postoperatively, there were no differences in HVA or IMA between groups; however, the flatfoot group exhibited greater deformity in Meary angle, TNCA, and CP (all P < .001).

Conclusion:

There were no significant postoperative differences in patient-reported outcomes of the Lapidus procedure between patients with and without asymptomatic flatfoot, and both groups achieved similar radiographic correction of their hallux valgus deformity. The Lapidus procedure appears to be a reasonable surgical option for hallux valgus correction in patients with asymptomatic flatfoot deformity. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Atypical Event Profiling of Intra-Arterial Chemotherapy
Authors: Bach Austin , Villegas Victor M. , Gold Aaron S. , Murray Timothy G.
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

Three cases of atypical events following intra-arterial chemotherapy for the treatment of retinoblastoma are presented.

Methods:

Case report.

Results:

One patient had acute orbital swelling with proptosis, another with extravasation of the chemotherapeutic agent, and the final with total ipsilateral hearing loss.

Conclusions:

These cases underscore the importance of maintaining close follow-up when using intra-arterial chemotherapy for treatment of retinoblastoma.
Tenecteplase for Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke and Its Outcome—An Indian Experience
Authors: Karri Madhavi , Ramasamy Balakrishnan
Published: May 2022

Background:

Stroke has been a growing concern with increasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. Tenecteplase has been approved in India as a newer thrombolytic, in acute ischemic stroke, since 2016. Very few studies have been reported to know the efficacy of Tenecteplase in AIS compared to alteplase.

Aim:

This study was done to understand the efficacy and related complications of Tenecteplase in AIS.

Methods:

In this prospective study, we took 112 people with AIS who received Tenecteplase, admitted between August 2018 and August 2020. After obtaining ethical approval, we tabulated patients’ data and did the statistical analysis using an unpaired t test, Analysis of Variance, and chi-square test. A P value of <.05 using a 2-tailed test was considered significant for all statistical analyses.

Results:

Out of 112 patients, 67.9% were male and 32.1% were female, with a mean age of 60.7 years. We classified stroke by using the TOAST classification. About 62.5% are classified as large atherosclerotic type, 14.3% cardioembolic, and 17.0% lacunar strokes. A total of 82.1% had a middle cerebral artery region stroke. The mean door to needle time was 76.7 min with a standard deviation of 33.3. The primary outcome was met in 47.3%, and the secondary result was achieved in 59.8%. Intracerebral hematoma was the most commonly observed complication. Mortality accounted for 9.8% of the total population.

Conclusions:

Tenecteplase is the newer thrombolytic agent with good efficacy. More studies are needed globally to understand regional differences and effectiveness.
Observing, recording, visualising and interpreting visitors’ movement patterns in art museums: A mixed method approach
Authors: McMurtrie Robert J
Published: May 2022

While it may seem obvious that visitors to an art museum move through exhibition space to see exhibits, understanding the corollaries of this movement is less so. Such an understanding requires using various complementary methodologies to observe, record, visualise and interpret visitors’ movement options. This paper is a systematic review of some long-standing methodologies and analytical tools developed within the field of visitor studies and spatial syntax as well as recent ones engendered from theories and concepts of wayfinding, Systemic Functional Linguistics, film and perception. The selected methodologies proved useful in a larger empirical study to account for the dynamic aspect of visitors’ movement patterns in exhibition space. While previous methodologies demonstrated that the placement of objects, particularly labels, influences movement patterns, newer methodologies elucidated that many movement options are not selected by the visitor, resulting in distorted views of artworks. The findings in this paper may have practical implications for curators, who might reconsider their curatorial designs to enable more movement choices and avoid these distortions, and for spatial discourse analysts, who may use some of the methodologies to undertake a finer-grained analysis of the built-environment, one which includes observing users’ movement patterns in relation to seeing.
Management of Complications Associated With Gorham-Stout Disease: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Zupelari Goncalves Paulo , Shelgikar Anita , Edwards Sean , Stanley Jeffrey , Aronovich Sharon
Published: May 2022

This case report describes the course of a patient diagnosed with Gorham-Stout Disease and reviews known complications and treatment options for this rare condition. An emphasis is placed on potential multi-systemic complications that may occur including surgical complications, obstructive sleep apnea, post-operative airway obstruction, respiratory failure and cardiac arrest.
BSA-Seq and Fine Linkage Mapping for the Identification of a Novel Locus (qPH9) for Mature Plant Height in Rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Xin Wei , Liu HuaLong , Yang Luomiao , Ma Tianze , Wang Jingguo , Zheng Hongliang , Liu Wenxing , Zou Detang
Published: May 2022

Background

Plant height is a key factor in the determination of rice yield since excessive height can easily cause lodging and reduce yield. Therefore, the identification and analysis of plant height-related genes to elucidate their physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms have significant implications for rice breeding and production.

Results

High-throughput quantitative trait locus (QTL) sequencing analysis of a 638-individual F2:3 mapping population resulted in the identification of a novel height-related QTL (qPH9), which was mapped to a 2.02-Mb region of Chromosome 9. Local QTL mapping, which was conducted using 13 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based Kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers for the qPH9 region, and traditional linkage analysis, facilitated the localization of qPH9 to a 126-kb region that contained 15 genes. Subsequent haplotype and sequence analyses indicated that OsPH9 was the most probable candidate gene for plant height at this locus, and functional analysis of osph9 CRISPR/Cas9-generated OsPH9 knockout mutants supported this conclusion.

Conclusion

OsPH9 was identified as a novel regulatory gene associated with plant height in rice, along with a height-reducing allele in ‘Dongfu-114’ rice, thereby representing an important molecular target for rice improvement. The findings of the present study are expected to spur the investigation of genetic mechanisms underlying rice plant height and further the improvement of rice plant height through marker-assisted selection.
Multi-omics analyses of the mechanism for the formation of soy sauce-like and soybean flavor in Bacillus subtilis BJ3-2
Authors: Wu Yongjun , Tao Yi , Jin Jing , Tong Shuoqiu , Li Sheng , Zhang Lincheng
Published: May 2022

Although soy sauce-like flavor and soybean flavor are two key contributors to the flavor of fermented foods, the key compounds of soy sauce-like flavor and soybean flavor and production mechanisms are still poorly understood and need further investigation. In the present study, we found that the Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) BJ3-2 strain has various metabolic properties at different temperatures, and the strain cultured at 37℃ increased the soybean flavor (a special flavor of ammonia-containing smelly distinct from natto) compared with culturing at 45℃ and 53℃. Interestingly, the strain cultured at 45℃ and 53℃ had a higher soy sauce-like flavor than that in 37℃. Moreover, a comparative transcriptome analysis of the strain cultured at 37℃, 45℃, and 53℃ showed transcriptional changes related to secondary metabolites and ABC transporters, which is critical for the amino acid transport and metabolism in B. subtilis. Meanwhile, proteomics and metabolomics profiling showed a marked change in amino acids transport and metabolism. In addition, the metabolic analysis revealed a significant metabolic difference (including sulfur metabolism, glutathione metabolism, nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, cysteine and methionine metabolism, and pyrimidine metabolism) in the strain cultured at 45℃ and 53℃ compared to 37℃. To sum, this study used the multi-omics profiling tool to investigate the fermentative strains B. subtilis BJ3-2, thus providing a deeper insight into the mechanism of the formation of soy sauce-like flavor and soybean flavor compounds.