bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delayed Cervical Carotid Revascularization After Missile Injury: A Technical Case Report
Authors: Housley Steven B. , Waqas Muhammad , Cappuzzo Justin M. , Metcalf-Doetsch William N. , Spiro Richard M. , Levy Elad I.
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE:

Penetrating missile injury to the carotid arteries may lead to catastrophic hemorrhagic and/or ischemic complications. The incidence of carotid injury in patients with penetrating cervical trauma (PCT) is 11% to 13%, with most cases involving the common carotid artery (73%), followed by the internal carotid artery (ICA) (22%) and external carotid artery (5%). Approximately 50% of PCT cases result in mortality, with specific injury to the carotid arteries carrying nearly a 100% mortality rate. Although historically limited because most patients do not survive these serious injuries, treatment has become more feasible with advancements in endovascular techniques and technologies.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

A young man presented to our trauma center after sustaining a gunshot wound to the right neck, leading to significant hemorrhage and ultimately a Biffl grade IV ICA injury. He was taken emergently to the operating room for cervical exploration and hemostasis. A computed tomography stroke study performed after initial stabilization revealed complete right ICA occlusion with increased time-to-peak in the right hemisphere. The patient was resuscitated to maintain sufficient cerebral perfusion pressure. Later, once hemodynamic stability was achieved, the patient underwent confirmatory angiography, followed by complete ICA revascularization using a balloon guide catheter to achieve flow arrest and placement of multiple carotid stents. He made a good neurological recovery.

CONCLUSION:

Endovascular carotid artery revascularization may be performed successfully in the subacute phase after PCT. The use of flow arrest obtained with a balloon guide catheter assists in preventing catastrophic hemorrhage in the event of rupture.
Superior Laryngeal Nerve Palsy After Anterior Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion: A Case Report and Cadaveric Description
Authors: Choy Winward , Garcia Joseph , Safaee Michael M. , Rubio Roberto R. , Loftus Patricia A. , Clark Aaron J.
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE:

Superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) injury after high cervical dissection can result in changes in vocal pitch due to cricothyroid denervation and dysphagia with aspiration risk because of decreased sensation of the supraglottic larynx.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

We describe a 69-year-old singer with cervical spondylotic myelopathy who underwent elective C3/4 and C4/5 anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion. Postoperatively, the patient reported changes in his voice, most noticeable with higher registers. A number of studies confirmed severe right superior laryngeal neuropathy. A cadaveric description included to highlight anatomic relationships critical in minimizing risk of SLN injury during an anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion approach.

CONCLUSION:

The SLN is a critical structure vulnerable to iatrogenic injury during high cervical dissections for anterior approaches to the spine. Therefore, it is critical for spine surgeons to have a firm understanding of SLN anatomy for these approaches.
CO2 Generation by Glucose and Derivatives Fuel Cells
Authors: Kaneto Keiichi , Uto Sadahito
Published: July 2022

Passive fuel cells using KOH solution of glucose and derivatives (sorbitol, gluconic, glucaric, glyoxylic and oxalic acids) substantially generated CO2. The composite of PEDOT:PSS, PtRu and SWCNT was used for the anode. CO2 volume vs released charge was evaluated after the measurement of discharge capacity. The glucose generated gaseous CO2 at 54 µL C−1. This agrees with the theoretical volume 63 µL C−1, namely, 6CO2 is effused by the 24-electron full oxidation.
Analysis of localisation of megakaryocytes in the bone marrow of the rat - possible relationship with innervations
Authors: Piątek Małgorzata , Polaniak Renata , Tabarowski Zbigniew , Staśkiewicz Wiktoria , Kiciak Agata , Grajek Mateusz
Published: July 2022

Within the bone marrow, megakaryocytes thrive in an environment rich in numerous growth factors that influences their development, maturation, and may play a role in signaling the start of platelet production. Up to now, experiments concerning localisation of various populations of cells in rat bone marrow showed their certain relationship to the blood vessels. There are strikingly few reliable sources of information available in the literature that confirm the relationship between the localisation of these cells in connection to nerve fibers. Therefore the purpose of the present study was to examine if megakaryocytes are located in a defined relation to sensory and sympathetic nerve fibers.

The study used immature 6 weeks rats of the Wistar breed of both sexes.  The animals were kept under constant lighting conditions (12 hours light-dark cycle) and temperature, and had unrestricted access to water and food (standard laboratory rodent feed).Double immunostaining method was applied with usage of secondary antibodies conjugated with fluorochromes (Cy3 and DTAF) to identify cells. The antibody against CD42d was used to immunolocalise megakaryocytes, while in order to identify the distribution of nerves, antibodies anti-NPY (for detection sympathetic nerve fibers) and anti-PGP 9.5 (sensory nerve fibers) were applied.

These findings showed the presence of megakaryocyte and megakaryoblastic cells which were distributed with a close relationship to the blood vessels but some of them were located in parenchyma. It was shown that NPY-positive and PGP 9.5-positive cells were present in the vicinity of blood cells. Furthermore, some megakaryocytes were located near PGP 9.5-labelled cells. The relationship between sympathetic nerve fibers containing neuropeptide Y and megakaryocytes was also detected.
Redes para la investigación y transferencia de conocimiento en comunicación: el caso de INTRACOM.
Authors: Loiti Rodríguez Sara , Suárez Villegas Juan Carlos
Published: July 2022

La universidad cumple con tres tareas intrínsecas que en otras organizaciones o instituciones es difícil que se desarrollen, se trata de la docencia, la investigación y la transferencia del conocimiento. Además, puesto que en pleno contexto digital se produce la democratización de la información, y la desmonopolización del conocimiento experto, se hace más evidente que nunca la necesidad de promover la divulgación a la sociedad desde las universidades. En este panorama nace el congreso-red INTRACOM con el objetivo de fomentar la investigación y transferencia en comunicación y promover la colaboración entre académicos y grupos de investigación. Este estudio busca determinar qué temas se han tratado en la primera edición del congreso, conocer el grado de influencia y relación con las funciones de investigación y transferencia –orientada a la empresa o a la sociedad– a través del análisis de las propuestas difundidas en dicho evento. Para ello, como herramienta metodológica se ha diseñado una ficha analítica con cinco variables –autoría, participación, temática, tipología y función de la ponencia–. Se evidencia una implicación por parte de la actividad académica en fomentar la divulgación y transferencia del conocimiento con propuestas, proyectos y descubrimientos de diversas disciplinas y con proyección en la sociedad. Adaptar los contenidos científicos a la comprensión general podría ayudar a combatir cuestiones como la desinformación y las fake news.
Parricidio y ley en la obra de Derrida.
Authors: Tenner Pedro
Published: July 2022

En el presente trabajo exploramos cómo la escena del parricidio de Tótem y tabú ha influido sobre la manera en que Derrida entiende el origen y preservación de la Ley. Nos remitimos al ensayo “Prejuzgados”, donde Derrida estudia el parricidio como un acontecimiento que ocurre y no ocurre a la vez, habilitando una fundación de la Ley a partir de la ficción y el simulacro. Luego, estudiaremos el seminario La pena de muerte, donde Derrida realiza una identificación entre el Padre y el condenado a muerte, y estudia la manera en que la repetición de la ejecución es constitutiva de la Ley.
Evolution of Referrals over Customers’ Life Cycle: Evidence from a Ride-Sharing Platform
Authors: Fernández-Loría Carlos , Cohen Maxime C. , Ghose Anindya
Published: July 2022

This paper addresses how referral generation and referral value evolve throughout the customer's life cycle as a function of service usage, experience level, and past referral behavior. We look at the referral behavior of 400,000 users of a large ride-sharing platform over the duration of a year. The upshot is that users make more and higher value referrals as they become more experienced with the service and when they are using the service intensively. However, as users make referrals, they are more likely to run out of friends to refer, leading to fewer (and lower value) referrals in the future. Based on these results, we suggest how digital platforms can improve their referral programs by tailoring them to how referral generation and referral value evolve over time. The richness of our data set allows us to address two shortcomings from previous studies: modeling dynamic behavior, such as the relationship between past and future referrals, and accounting for unobserved heterogeneity across users.
Design for Social Sharing: The Case of Mobile Apps
Authors: Karanam Subrahmanyam Aditya , Agarwal Ashish , Barua Anitesh
Published: July 2022

With millions of mobile apps available today, app developers find it challenging to generate consumer demand. The problem is particularly pronounced in the tail of the demand distribution, where the lack of awareness may deter a high-quality niche app from being successful. App developers can develop new features, incorporate social features to share information about their apps, and increase their relative demand. We evaluate the effect of social and nonsocial or intrinsic features on the demand for apps on the iOS platform. Our findings suggest that only niche apps can increase their demand by incorporating social features. We also find that social features that allow sharing on platforms with large audiences and stronger ties among users, such as Facebook, are most effective. Additionally, social features can increase the demand for all apps when these are introduced along with less common intrinsic features. However, low-quality niche apps should refrain from sharing information about such features on platforms with low tie strength, as this may hurt the demand. Our results demonstrate how social and intrinsic features can have a different impact on the demand of the apps based on their popularity.
Multi-parameter and multi-objective optimization of stratified OLEDs over wide field-of-view considering thickness tolerance
Authors: Chen Linya , Gu Honggang , Ke Xianhua , Zhao Xuenan , Ding Ke , Jiao Shibo , Gu Yu , Liu Shiyuan
Published: July 2022

Poor wide field-of-view (FOV) performances and low production yields are major factors that restrict the application of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) in large-size panels. In this paper, we propose an optimization and analysis method to improve optical performances of stratified OLEDs over wide FOV with consideration of the thickness tolerance in the practical production process. With key optical performance parameters defined using the angle-dependent luminescence spectra, including the external quantum efficiency (EQE), current efficiency (CE), just noticeable color difference (JNCD), and the color coordinates, the optimization of OLEDs over wide FOV is described as a multi-parameter and multi-objective optimization problem which is accomplished by the genetic algorithms (GAs). Further, the thickness tolerance is introduced to improve the structure stability considering thickness fluctuations in the practical production process. Appropriate thickness tolerances can be determined to achieve stable structures for the OLED device by defining and analyzing the distributions of preference regions of the GA output noninferior solutions and the correlation coefficients between the layer thicknesses. Based on the proposed methods, high-throughput simulations are carried out on a typical Green Bottom-emitting OLED (G-BOLED) to design a stable device structure with high-performances. Experimental results demonstrate that compared with the initial device, the performances of the optimized device have been significantly improved, with the CE improved by over 30% in the normal direction, the EQE improved by over 20%, and the JNCD reduced from 4.45 to 1.36 over the whole FOV of 0-60°. In addition, within the thickness fluctuation in the practical process, optimized devices can strictly satisfy the “Best” preferred region, indicating that the structure is more stable against thickness fluctuations in the practical production process. The proposed optimization method can simultaneously improve optical performances over wide FOV and provide a stable structure for stratified OLEDs, and it therefore can be expected to improve the production yields and promote the OLEDs applied to large-size panels.
Underwater image restoration via background light estimation and depth map optimization
Authors: Liu Dingshuo , Zhou Jingchun , Xie Xiong , Lin Zifan , Lin Yi
Published: July 2022

In underwater images, the significant sources of distortion are light attenuation and scattering. Existing underwater image restoration technologies cannot deal with the poor contrast and color distortion bias of underwater images. This work provides a new underwater image restoration approach relying on depth map optimization and background light (BL) estimation. First, we build a robust BL estimation model that relies on the prior features of blurriness, smoothness, and the difference between the intensity of the red and blue-green channels. Second, the red-light intensity, difference between light and dark channels, and disparity of red and green-blue channels by considering the hue are used to calculate the depth map. Then, the effect of artificial light sources on the underwater image is removed using the adjusted reversed saturation map. Both the subjective and objective experimental results reveal that the images produced by the proposed technology provide more remarkable visibility and superior color fidelity.
Non-invasive probing of dynamic ion migration in light-emitting electrochemical cells by an advanced nanoscale confocal microscope
Authors: Tseng Wei-Shiuan , Hsieh Chi-Sheng , Chan Ming-Che , Su Hai-Ching
Published: July 2022

In this study, we firstly propose an optical approach to investigate the ion profile of organic films in light-emitting electrochemical cells (LECs) without any invasive sputtering processes. In contrast to previous literatures, this pure optical strategy allows us to record clear and non-destructive ion profile images in the (Ru(dtb-bpy)3(PF6)2) consisted organic layer without interferences of complex collisions from the bombardment of secondary sputter induced ions in a conventional time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry. By using the advanced position sensitive detector (PSD)-based Nanoscale Confocal Microscope, ion distribution profiles were successfully acquired based on the observation of nanoscale optical path length difference by measuring the refractive-index variation while the thickness of the LEC layer was fixed. Dynamic time-dependent ion profile displayed clear ion migration process under a 100 V applied bias at two ends of the LEC. This technique opens up a new avenue towards the future investigations of ion distributions inside organic/inorganic materials, Li-ion batteries, or micro-fluid channels without damaging the materials or disturbing the device operation.
Robust single-sideband-modulated Raman light generation for atom interferometry by FBG-based optical rectangular filtration
Authors: Wang Guochao , Wang Yaning , Ying Kang , Zhang Huankai , Zhang Xu , Li Qixue , Li Xuan , Wang Enlong , Yu Xiao , Jia Aiai , Yan Shuhua , Yang Jun , Zhu Lingxiao
Published: July 2022

Low-phase-noise and pure-spectrum Raman light is vital for high-precision atom interferometry by two-photon Raman transition. A preferred and prevalent solution for Raman light generation is electro-optic phase modulation. However, phase modulation inherently brings in double sidebands, resulting in residual sideband effects of multiple laser pairs beside Raman light in atom interferometry. Based on a well-designed rectangular fiber Bragg grating and a plain electro-optic modulator, optical single-sideband modulation has been realized at 1560 nm with a stable suppression ratio better than −25 dB despite of intense temperature variations. After optical filtration and frequency doubling, a robust phase-coherent Raman light at 780 nm is generated with a stable SNR of better than −19 dB and facilitates measuring the local gravity successfully. This FBG-based all-fiber single-sideband-modulated Raman light source, proposed for the first time and characterized as robust, compact and low-priced, is practical and potential for field applications of portable atom interferometry.
GaSb surface grating distributed feedback interband cascade laser emitting at 3.25 µm
Authors: Ning Chao , Sun Rui-Xuan , Liu Shu-man , Zhang Jin-Chuan , Zhuo Ning , Liu Jun-Qi , Wang Li-Jun , Zhai Shen-qiang , Liu Feng-Qi , Wang Zahn-Guo
Published: July 2022

A second-order distributed feedback interband cascade laser emitting at 3.25 µm was designed, grown, and fabricated. By coherent epitaxy of a GaSb cap layer instead of the conventional thin InAs cap on top of the laser structure, a high-quality surface grating was made of GaSb and gold. Enough coupling strength and a significant inter-modal loss difference were predicted according to the simulation within the framework of couple-wave theory. Lasers having 2-mm-long cavities and 4.5-µm-wide ridges with high-/anti-reflection coatings were fabricated. The continuous-wave threshold current and maximum single-mode output power were 60 mA and 24 mW at 20°C, respectively. The output power of 5 mW was still kept at 55°C. Continuous tuning free from mode hopping and high single-mode suppression ratios (>20 dB) were realized at all injection currents and heat-sink temperatures, covering a spectral range of over 20 cm-1.
Explainable deep transfer learning model for disease risk prediction using high-dimensional genomic data
Authors: Liu Long , Meng Qingyu , Weng Cherry , Lu Qing , Wang Tong , Wen Yalu
Published: July 2022

Building an accurate disease risk prediction model is an essential step in the modern quest for precision medicine. While high-dimensional genomic data provides valuable data resources for the investigations of disease risk, their huge amount of noise and complex relationships between predictors and outcomes have brought tremendous analytical challenges. Deep learning model is the state-of-the-art methods for many prediction tasks, and it is a promising framework for the analysis of genomic data. However, deep learning models generally suffer from the curse of dimensionality and the lack of biological interpretability, both of which have greatly limited their applications. In this work, we have developed a deep neural network (DNN) based prediction modeling framework. We first proposed a group-wise feature importance score for feature selection, where genes harboring genetic variants with both linear and non-linear effects are efficiently detected. We then designed an explainable transfer-learning based DNN method, which can directly incorporate information from feature selection and accurately capture complex predictive effects. The proposed DNN-framework is biologically interpretable, as it is built based on the selected predictive genes. It is also computationally efficient and can be applied to genome-wide data. Through extensive simulations and real data analyses, we have demonstrated that our proposed method can not only efficiently detect predictive features, but also accurately predict disease risk, as compared to many existing methods.
Association of cytochromes P450 3A4*22 and 3A5*3 genotypes and polymorphism with response to simvastatin in hypercholesterolemia patients
Authors: Elalem Elbatool G. , Jelani Musharraf , Khedr Alaa , Ahmad Aftab , Alaama Tareef Y. , Alaama Mohamed Nabeel , Al-Kreathy Huda M. , Damanhouri Zoheir A.
Published: July 2022

Backgrounds

Inter-individual variability in response to statin was mainly due to genetic differences. This study aimed to investigate the association of CYP3A4*22 (rs35599367), CYP3A5*3 (rs776746) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) with response to simvastatin in hypercholesterolemia patients conducted at King Abdulaziz University hospital (KAUH) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Patients and methods

A total of 274 participants were registered in the current study. Hypercholesterolemic patients taking simvastatin 20 mg (n = 148) and control subjects (n = 126) were tested for rs35599367 and rs776746 genotypes using Custom Taqman ® Assay Probes. Response to simvastatin in these patients was assessed by determination of low density lipoprotein (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC) and by measuring statin plasma levels using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS).

Results

None of the participants carried a homozygous CYP3A4*22 mutant genotype, while 12 (4.4%) individuals had a heterozygous genotype and 262 (95.6%) had a wild homozygous genotype. The CYP3A5*3 allele was detected in the homozygous mutant form in 16 (5.8%) individuals, while 74 (27.0%) individuals carried the heterozygous genotype and 184 (67.2%) carried the wildtype homozygous genotype. Of the patient group, 15 (11%) were classified as intermediate metabolizers (IMs) and 133 (89%) as extensive metabolizers (EMs). Plasma simvastatin concentrations for the combined CYP3A4/5 genotypes were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the IMs group than in the EMs group. TC and plasma LDL-C levels were also significantly (P<0.05) higher in IMs than in EMs.

Conclusion

The present study showed associations between CYP3A4*22 (rs35599367) and CYP3A5*3 (rs776746) SNP combination genotypes with response to statins in hypercholesterolemia. Patients who had either a mutant homozygous allele for CYP3A5*3 or mutant homozygous and heterozygous alleles for CYP3A4*22 showed increased response to lower TC and LDL-C levels.
Coastal radar as a tool for continuous and fine-scale monitoring of vessel activities of interest in the vicinity of marine protected areas
Authors: Cope Samantha , Tougher Brendan , Morten Jessica , Pukini Cory , Zetterlind Virgil
Published: July 2022

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are widely utilized for conservation of the world’s marine resources. Yet, compliance with MPA regulations remains difficult to measure because of limits to human resources and a lack of affordable technologies to automate monitoring over time. The Marine Monitor, an autonomous vessel monitoring, recording, and reporting system leveraging commercial off-the-shelf X-band marine radar to detect and track vessels, was used to monitor five nearshore California MPAs simultaneously and continuously to identify and compare site-specific use patterns over one year. Vessel tracks were classified into two movement patterns to capture likely fishing activity, “focal” or “linear”, that corresponded with local targeted species. Some illegal fishing potentially occurred at all sites (7–17% of tracks depending on site) most frequently on weekends and at mid-day, but the majority of activity occurred just outside the MPAs and in the near vicinity suggesting both a high level of compliance with regulations and awareness of MPA boundaries. Time spent engaged in potential fishing activity compared to track counts suggests that unique vessels may spend more time fishing inside area boundaries at some sites than others. The spatial distribution of activity shows distinct concentrations near MPA boundaries at all sites which strongly suggests vessels purposefully target the narrow area at the MPA boundary or “fish the line”, a potential acknowledgement of successful spillover. This activity increased significantly during some local fishing seasons. Concentration of activity at MPA boundaries highlights the importance of continuous monitoring at a high spatial and temporal resolution. Reporting of vessel behavior at a fine-scale using radar can help resource managers target enforcement efforts and understand human use patterns near coastal MPAs.
Drivers of downloading and reasons for not downloading COVID-19 contact tracing and exposure notification apps: A national cross-sectional survey
Authors: Gao Golden , Lang Raynell , Oxoby Robert J. , Mourali Mehdi , Sheikh Hasan , Fullerton Madison M. , Tang Theresa , Manns Braden J. , Marshall Deborah A. , Hu Jia , Benham Jamie L.
Published: July 2022

Background

Bluetooth-enabled smartphone apps have been developed and implemented in different sites globally to help overcome capacity limitations of traditional interview-based COVID-19 contact tracing. Two apps are currently available in Canada: ABTraceTogether exclusively in Alberta and COVID Alert in nine other provinces and territories. This study aims to examine factors associated with downloading of these apps to inform targeted promotion and marketing to increase app uptake.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional survey with adult participants (≥18 years old) from an online national panel. Participants were asked if they had downloaded an app and, if applicable, reasons for not downloading. Logistic regression was used to identify sociodemographic factors and trusted information sources associated with downloading and reasons for not downloading.

Results

Of the included 4,503 respondents (36% response rate), 1,394 (31%) had downloaded an app. Demographic and socioeconomic factors positively associated with app download were: 1) being female, 2) higher household income, 3) higher education level attained, and 4) more liberal political views. The odds of downloading an app were higher for participants who trusted health-related information sources, and lower for those who trusted internet searches, family and friend, or Facebook. The most cited reasons for not downloading were related to data security concerns and perceived lack of benefit from the apps.

Interpretation

These findings identify sociodemographic segments with the lowest app uptake, reasons for not downloading and trusted information sources to inform targeted promotion and marketing strategies to improve uptake of apps to facilitate contact tracing.
Risk factors for HCV transmission in HIV-positive men who have sex with men in México
Authors: Mata-Marín José Antonio , de Pablos-Leal Armando Abraham , Mauss Stefan , Arroyo-Anduiza Carla Ileana , Rodríguez-Evaristo Mara Soraya , Uribe-Noguéz Luis Antonio , Berrospe-Silva María de los Ángeles , Lara-Castañeda Juan Carlos , Pérez-Barragán Edgar , Gaytán-Martínez Jesús
Published: July 2022

Purpose

In the last two decades transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in HIV positive men who have sex with men (MSM) has been reported globally. Chemsex and specific sexual practices have been identified as risk factors. Our study aimed to identify risk factors for HCV transmission in MSM living with HIV attending in Mexico.

Methods

We conducted a case-control study from April to December 2019 at the Hospital de Infectología “La Raza” National Medical Center, in Mexico City. A case was defined as an HIV-infected MSM with positive HCV-antibody test. For each case, 3 controls were included, defined as HIV infected MSM with negative HCV-antibody test. A self-questionnaire covering sexual practices and other risk factors for HCV transmission was applied. Bivariate analysis was performed to obtain odds ratio (OR) using Chi-square test. Independent risk factors were identified in a subsequent analysis performing a logistic regression model.

Results

A total of 324 patients participated in the study, 81 cases and 243 controls. Median age was 30.5 years (IQR: 18–52) and 28.8 years (IQR: 21–45) in the case and control group, respectively. Most prevalent HCV genotype was 1a (79%). In the logistic regression model, sharing straw during cocaine inhalation (OR: 9.03; 95% CI; 1.35–13.52; P = 0.003), sharing sex toys (OR: 17.53, 95% CI; 6.85–44.86; P = 0.002), and ethyl chloride use for chemsex (OR: 2.26; 95% CI; 1.29–5.56; P = 0.037) were significant risk factors for HCV infection.

Conclusion

This study identifies risk factors for HCV transmission in Mexico in HIV positive MSM in congruence with the findings of many studies performed worldwide. This is the first study that indicates a possible association between ethyl chloride use in chemsex and HCV infection. Assessment of local populations for risk factors for HCV transmission may help to develop specifically targeted behavioral interventions to reduce HCV transmission.
COVID-19 infection among vaccinated and unvaccinated: Does it make any difference?
Authors: Fatima Samar , Zafar Amara , Afzal Haris , Ejaz Taymmia , Shamim Sara , Saleemi Shayan , Subhan Butt Amna
Published: July 2022

Objective

There is a probability that vaccination may lead to reduction in the severity and complications associated with COVID-19 infection among hospitalized patients. This study aimed to determine the characteristics, clinical profiles, and outcomes of COVID-19 infection in vaccinated and non-vaccinated patients.

Design and data sources

This prospective observational cohort study was conducted at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) and recruited COVID-19 patients admitted between June 1st and September 30th, 2021. Patients’ demographics, date of admission and discharge, comorbid conditions, immunization status for COVID-19 infection, presenting complaints, lab workup and computed tomography (CT) scan findings were obtained from the medical records. The primary outcome of the study was patients’ condition at discharge and the secondary outcomes included level of care, length of stay (LOS), requirement of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and inotropic support.

Results

Among a cohort of 434 patients, 37.7% (n = 164), 6.6% (n = 29) and 55.5% (n = 241) were fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated, and unvaccinated, respectively. Around 3% and 42.9% of the patient required inotropic and NIV support respectively; however, there was no discernible difference between them in terms of vaccination status. In case of unvaccinated patients there were significantly increased number of critical care admissions (p-value 0.043). Unvaccinated patients had significantly higher median serum procalcitonin, ferritin, LDH and D-dimer levels. Around 5.3% (n = 23) of the patient required invasive ventilation and it was more common in unvaccinated patients (p-value 0.04). Overall, mortality rate was 12.2% (n = 53) and this was higher (16.2%, n = 39) in unvaccinated patients as compared to fully vaccinated patients (6.1%, n = 10, p-value 0.006).

Conclusions

Through this preliminary data, we can conclude that patient can develop severe and critical COVID-19 infection despite being vaccinated but this proportion is low as compared to unvaccinated population. So, uninterrupted endeavors need to be done to vaccinate as many individuals as possible. Furthermore, more effective vaccinations need to be developed to lessen the high death toll of COVID-19 infection.
Spatial distribution of health-risky road traffic noise pollution in Dessie City, North East Ethiopia
Authors: Bogale Getahun Gebre , Sisay Tadesse , Mekonen Asnakew Molla , Aemiro Muluken Tessema
Published: July 2022

Objective

Dessie is the trade center for northeast Ethiopia. High traffic flow plus overacting of promotion made the city noisy. There is a shortage of relevant evidence that enforces policy makers to design intervention plans. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the health-risky road traffic noise pollution in Dessie City, Ethiopia.

Methods

The study was conducted by purposive selection of the study area and sampling sites of the city from May 31, 2021 –June 6, 2021. Noise level recordings were taken by a digital Sound Meter and location data was collected by Global Positioning System. Residential, health facility, commercial, and mixed sites were identified by field observation. A total of 20 noise sampling points were included. The sampling points were selected by considering World Health Organization guideline. The measurements were taken twice a day at peak hours, between 8:00–11:00am and 4:00–7:00pm on all days of the week. The sound level meter was placed at a height of 1.5m and 2m from the curb. A total of 280 sound level records were conducted over one week.

Results

Among twenty noise recording sites, more than 50% of them registered as excessive noisy sites for all types of site categories (health facility, residential, commercial, and mixed areas). For the seven days, average noise recordings were in the range of 66–72 dB at 83% of mixed areas; 33% of health facilities; 25% of residential areas, and 86% of commercial areas. The highest levels of noise pollution were seen at the Bus-station,BuanbuawuhaSquare,Tekuam,Arada, Ethio General Hospital,Ersha-seble, andMenafeshaareas.

Conclusion

This study shows that the average noise level measurement within a week exceeded the permissible limits set by Ethiopia and the World Health Organization. It helps for policy development and timely actions against noise pollution and as baseline information for further investigation.
Definition and classification for adverse events following spinal and peripheral joint manipulation and mobilization: A scoping review
Authors: Funabashi Martha , Gorrell Lindsay M. , Pohlman Katherine A. , Bergna Andrea , Heneghan Nicola R.
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Spinal and peripheral joint manipulation and mobilization are interventions used by many healthcare providers to manage musculoskeletal conditions. Although there are many reports of adverse events (or undesirable outcomes) following such interventions, there is no common definition for an adverse event or clarity on any severity classification. This impedes advances of patient safety initiatives and practice. This scoping review mapped the evidence of adverse event definitions and classification systems following spinal and peripheral joint manipulation and mobilization for musculoskeletal conditions in adults.

Methods

An electronic search of the following databases was performed from inception to February 2021: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, AMED, ICL, PEDro, Cochrane Library, Open Grey and Open Theses and Dissertations. Studies including adults (18 to 65 years old) with a musculoskeletal condition receiving spinal or peripheral joint manipulation or mobilization and providing an adverse event definition and/or classification were included. All study designs of peer-reviewed publications were considered. Data from included studies were charted using a standardized data extraction form and synthesised using narrative analysis.

Results

From 8248 identified studies, 98 were included in the final synthesis. A direct definition for an adverse event and/or classification system was provided in 69 studies, while 29 provided an indirect definition and/or classification system. The most common descriptors to define an adverse event were causality, symptom severity, onset and duration. Twenty-three studies that provided a classification system described only the end anchors (e.g., mild/minor and/or serious) of the classification while 26 described multiple categories (e.g., moderate, severe).

Conclusion

A vast array of terms, definition and classification systems were identified. There is no one common definition or classification for adverse events following spinal and peripheral joint manipulation and mobilization. Findings support the urgent need for consensus on the terms, definition and classification system for adverse events related to these interventions.
Hepatitis C virus transmission cluster among injection drug users in Pakistan
Authors: Sahibzada Kashif Iqbal , Ganova-Raeva Lilia , Dimitrova Zoya , Ramachandran Sumathi , Lin Yulin , Longmire Garrett , Arthur Leonard , Xia Guo-liang , Khudyakov Yury , Khan Idrees , Sadaf Saima
Published: July 2022

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are public health problem across the globe, particularly in developing countries. Pakistan has the second highest prevalence of HCV infection worldwide. Limited data exist from Pakistan about persons who inject drugs (PWID) and are at significant risk of exposure to HCV infection and transmission. Serum specimens (n = 110) collected from PWID residing in four provinces were tested for molecular markers of HCV infection. Next generation sequencing (NGS) of the hypervariable region (HVR1) of HCV and Global Hepatitis Outbreak and Surveillance Technology (GHOST) were used to determine HCV genotype, genetic heterogeneity, and construct transmission networks. Among tested specimens, 47.3% were found anti-HCV positive and 34.6% were HCV RNA-positive and belonged to four genotypes, with 3a most prevalent followed by 1a, 1b and 4a. Variants sampled from five cases formed phylogenetic cluster and a transmission network. One case harbored infection with two different genotypes. High prevalence of infections and presence of various genotypes indicate frequent introduction and transmission of HCV among PWID in Pakistan. Identification of a transmission cluster across three provinces, involving 20% of all cases, suggests the existence of a countrywide transmission network among PWIDs. Understanding the structure of this network should assist in devising effective public health strategies to eliminate HCV infection in Pakistan.
Health equity and wellbeing among older people’s caregivers in New Zealand during COVID-19: Protocol for a qualitative study
Authors: Burholt Vanessa , Balmer Deborah , Frey Rosemary , Meha Pare , Parsons John , Roberts Mary , Simpson Mary Louisa , Wiles Janine , Gregorzewski Moema , Percival Teuila , Reddy Rangimahora
Published: July 2022

Background

Knowledge of the challenges unpaid caregivers faced providing care to older people during the COVID-19 pandemic is limited. Challenges may be especially pronounced for those experiencing inequitable access to health and social care. This participatory action research study, located in New Zealand, has four main objectives, (i) to understand the challenges and rewards associated with caregiving to older care recipients during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions; (ii) to map and collate resources developed (or mobilised) by organisations during the pandemic; (iii) to co-produce policy recommendations, identify useful caregiver resources and practices, prioritise unmet needs (challenges); and, (iv) to use project results in knowledge translation, in order to improve caregivers access to resources, and raise the profile and recognition of caregivers contribution to society.

Methods and analysis

Māori, Pacific and rural-dwelling caregivers to 30 older care-recipients, and 30 representatives from organisations supporting caregivers in New Zealand will be interviewed. Combining data from the interviews and caregivers letters (from an archive of older people’s pandemic experiences), framework analysis will be used to examine the interrelated systems of the human ecological model and the impact on caregiving experiences during the pandemic. Resources that service providers had created or used for caregivers and older people will be collated and categorised. Through co-production with caregivers and community partners we will produce three short films describing caregivers’ pandemic experiences; identify a suite of resources for caregivers to use in future events requiring self-isolation, and in everyday life; and generate ideas to address unresolved issues.
There is no smoke without fire: How frequency information and the experience attribution make negative online restaurant reviews more harmful
Authors: Trzebiński Wojciech , Marciniak Beata
Published: July 2022

The paper proposes and evidences that a more frequent mentioning of a service issue in an online restaurant review makes the readers blame the restaurant more for the issue. This inside attribution, in turn, may worsen the restaurant evaluation. Two experiments (Study 1 and 2) examine this mechanism using different stimuli. In both experiments, consumers exposed to high (vs. low) mentioning-frequency reviews attributed the issue more inside the restaurant and evaluated the restaurant lower. Additionally, the paper considers the role of consumer analytical processing (Study 1) and perceived review helpfulness (Study 2) in the relationships between mentioning frequency and issue attribution. The paper extends the existing literature by applying the attribution theory to the context of frequency information in online reviews. The results guide marketers dealing with negative online reviews by suggesting the way to deal with high-mentioning-frequency negative reviews.
Multiple chikungunya virus introductions in Lao PDR from 2014 to 2020
Authors: Calvez Elodie , Bounmany Phaithong , Somlor Somphavanh , Xaybounsou Thonglakhone , Viengphouthong Souksakhone , Keosenhom Sitsana , Brey Paul T. , Lacoste Vincent , Grandadam Marc
Published: July 2022

The first documented chikungunya virus (CHIKV) outbreak in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) occurred in 2012–2013. Since then, several imported and a few autochthonous cases were identified by the national arbovirus surveillance network. The present study aimed to summarize the main genetic features of the CHIKV strains detected in Lao PDR between 2014 and 2020. Samples from Lao patients presenting symptoms compatible with a CHIKV infection were centralized in Vientiane Capital city for real-time RT-PCR screening. Molecular epidemiology was performed by sequencing the E2-6K-E1 region. From 2014 to 2020, two Asian lineage isolates (e.g. French Polynesia; Indonesia), one ECSA-IOL lineage isolate (e.g. Thailand) and one unclassified (e.g. Myanmar) were imported in Vientiane Capital city. Sequences from the autochthonous cases recorded in the Central and Southern parts of the country between July and September 2020 belonged to the ECSA-IOL lineage and clustered with CHIKV strains recently detected in neighboring countries. These results demonstrate the multiple CHIKV introductions in Lao PDR since 2014 and provide evidence for sporadic and time-limited circulation of CHIKV in the country. Even if the circulation of CHIKV seems to be geographically and temporally limited in Lao PDR, the development of international tourism and trade may cause future outbreaks of CHIKV in the country and at the regional level.
Development of a droplet digital PCR assay to detect illicit glucocorticoid administration in bovine
Authors: Divari Sara , Cuccato Matteo , Fanelli Antonella , Cannizzo Francesca Tiziana
Published: July 2022

Glucocorticoids are often used illegally in food-producing animals for the growth promotion of livestock animals. In accordance to official chemical methods for glucocorticoid detection, an animal is declared as non-compliant when a residue is identified in the sample. Neverthless, growth promoting molecules can often escape identification due to their rapid elimination or due to the use of non-detectable new generation drugs. Therefore, an indirect screening method able to detect the biological effect of long-term administration of low doses of dexamethasone and prednisolone on livestock has been developed to support official methods. As already described,FKBP5(FKBP prolyl isomerase 5) expression in bovine thymus is regulated by glucocorticoids, and this specific regulation can be exploited in an indirect screening assay. In the present study, male veal calves and young bulls were considered in three different trials in which estradiol, dexamethasone, and prednisolone were administered alone or in combination with Revalor-200 subcutaneous pellets. Thoracic thymus was sampled from all animals and molecular analysis was performed. A duplex droplet digital PCR assay with EvaGreen®was employed to detect the target gene expression using absolute quantification. The developed droplet digital PCR assay was precise, showing intra- and inter-assay mean coefficient of variation values of about 6.16% and 3.17%, respectively. It was also highly specific (100%) with Youden’s index of 76.92% and 53.57% applied to veal calves and young bulls, respectively. The lowest detection limit in which the target gene expression level was kept constant, was 0.05 ng/μl of cDNA with 1 copies/μL and 0.5 copies/μL for target and reference gene, respectively. This study establishes the basis for using a digital PCR-based assay as an efficient test to identify animals illegally treated with glucocorticoids.
Managing incontinence in low-and middle income-countries: A qualitative case study from Pakistan
Authors: Ansari Zara , White Sian
Published: July 2022

Background

Incontinence is a complex health and social issue, which involves the involuntary loss of urine or faeces or both. Individuals with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to incontinence. The management of incontinence has largely been overlooked in low and middle-income settings (LMICs). This study aimed to explore the incontinence management strategies employed by disabled people with severe incontinence and their caregivers in Sindh Province, Pakistan.

Methods

Incontinence management was explored through in-depth interviews with people with incontinence (PWI) and their caregivers, photovoice, and a market survey and product attribute assessment. Data was analysed thematically through inductive coding and evaluated against existing disability and caregiver frameworks.

Results

Incontinence management affected all aspects of daily life for PWI and caregivers. Effective management of incontinence was prioritised because caregivers viewed it to be part of their familial duty and a requirement for the household to remain pure in the eyes of God. Coping strategies included strict adherence to routines, reducing food and drink intake, creative uses of locally available natural resources, and a heavy reliance on soap and water for maintaining hygiene. Products such as adult diapers were largely unavailable, costly and were not deemed suitable for regular use. There were no social or medical interventions in the region to support incontinence management. The main impacts of incontinence on the household were social isolation, stigma, role shifts within the family, the development of physical ailments among caregivers, and decreased income.

Conclusion

The complex health, psychological, social, economic, and cultural impacts of incontinence are exacerbated in LMICs due a lack of recognition of the condition, the absence of social or medical interventions and limited access to basic WASH infrastructure, and assistive devices or products. Appropriate solutions need to be developed in partnership with PWI and caregivers and need to be contextualised, affordable and sustainable.