bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wellens’ Syndrome from COVID-19 Infection Assessed by Enhanced Transthoracic Coronary Echo Doppler: A Case Report
Authors: Caiati Carlo , Desario Paolo , Tricarico Giuseppe , Iacovelli Fortunato , Pollice Paolo , Favale Stefano , Lepera Mario Erminio
Published: March 2022

Wellens’ syndrome (WS) is a preinfarction state caused by a sub-occlusion of the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD). In this case report, for the first time, we describe how this syndrome can be caused by COVID-19 infection and, most importantly, that it can be assessed bedside by enhanced transthoracic coronary echo Doppler (E-Doppler TTE). This seasoned technique allows blood flow Doppler to be recorded in the coronaries and at the stenosis site but has never been tested in an acute setting. Two weeks after clinical recovery from bronchitis allegedly caused by COVID-19 infection on the basis of epidemiologic criteria (no swab performed during the acute phase but only during recovery, at which time it was negative), our patient developed typical angina for the first time, mainly during effort but also at rest. He was admitted to our tertiary center, where pharyngeal swabs tested positive for COVID-19. A typical EKG finding supporting WS prompted an assessment of the left main coronary artery (LMCA) and the whole LAD blood flow velocity by E-Doppler TTE. Localized high velocity (transtenotic velocity) (100 cm/s) was recorded in the proximal LAD, with the reference velocity being 20 cm/s. This indicated severe stenosis with 90% area narrowing according to the continuity equation, as confirmed by coronary angiography. During follow-up after successful stenting, E-Doppler TTE showed a decrease in the transtenotic acceleration, confirming stent patency and a normal coronary flow reserve (3.2) and illustrating a normal microcirculatory function. Conclusion: COVID infection can trigger a coronary syndrome like WS. E-Doppler TTE, an ionizing radiation-free method, allows safe and rapid bedside management of the syndrome. This new strategy can be pivotal in distinguishing true WS from pseudo-WS. In cases of pseudo-WS, coronary angiography can be avoided. If E-Doppler TTE confirms the stenosis and PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) is performed, the same method can allow assessment over time of the precise residual stenosis after stenting and verify the microvasculature status by evaluating coronary flow reserve.
Towards Decolonising Research Ethics: From One-off Review Boards to Decentralised North–South Partnerships in an International Development Programme
Authors: Cascant Sempere Maria Josep , Aliyu Talatu , Bollaert Cathy
Published: March 2022

Contemporary North–South research collaborations are fraught with power relations originating in colonialism. Debates about research ethics have tended to turn around the “procedural ethics” formal model and the “everyday ethics” practical model. We build on that to suggest a second debate that scrutinises ethics and power relations not only in the researcher–researched relationship but also in the relationships within research teams and ethics review boards. The research asked: how can we shift power in research to decolonise research and build more equitable partnerships? We explored this with data obtained through collaborative autoethnography in a multi-country development research programme, Evidence and Collaboration for Inclusive Development (ECID). This included regular self-reflective meetings, visual methods, a self-evaluation survey, and blogs addressing power issues. Coordinated from London, the research had all the cards to adopt a ‘colonial’ gaze in which the North would ‘research’ the South. The case narrates the journey of the research team to decentralise power in the programme, which included sharing control over the selection of research topics, and the research design, budget, and publications. Drawing from the lessons learned from the research approach that was adopted in ECID, this paper offers an 8-step model towards decolonising research ethics.
Chemical and Kraft Pulping Properties of Young Eucalypt Trees Affected by Physiological Disorders
Authors: Rodrigues Brunela Pollastrelli , da Silva Oliveira José Tarcísio , Demuner Braz José , Mafia Reginaldo Gonçalves , Vidaurre Graziela Baptista
Published: March 2022

This study evaluated how Eucalyptus physiological disorder (EPD) affects wood quality and pulping performance. Although research advances have been made in forest management and tree improvement programs for eucalypt plantations, some areas of Brazil are still subject to abiotic stress, mainly due to atypical climatic patterns. Tree growth is affected by abiotic stress, and this can change the wood properties, which influence the pulping process. The Eucalyptus trees used in this study were three-and-a-half-year-old hybrid clones. In order to evaluate the impact of physiological growth disorder on the wood, trees were selected with higher and lower levels of symptoms caused by EPD. First, the density, chemical composition, and variables of the pulping process of each of these woods were compared. The higher levels EPD symptoms resulted in poorer wood quality for pulping. To reduce the negative impact of the pulping process, reference woodchip samples from the industrial process were mixed with these wood samples and evaluated again. The results show that EPD negatively affected the wood quality required for pulp production when trees from higher stress conditions formed wood with more extractives (60% greater) and 9% more of lignin content. Thus, the amount of reagent used was increased and the pulp yield decreased. One solution to minimize the problem is to combine the woodchips from higher EPD trees and stands (20%) with non-EPD-affected chips (80%). Thus, it appears that affected wood requires special management attention in the context of pulp production.
Morphometric Analyses of Leaf Shapes in Four Sympatric Mediterranean Oaks and Hybrids in the Algerian Kabylie Forest
Authors: Akli Amel , Lorenzo Zaida , Alía Ricardo , Rabhi Khellaf , Torres Enrique
Published: March 2022

(1) Background: local morphological variation can provide useful information to clarify the role of hybridization in Mediterranean oaks. Accordingly, we have characterized putative hybrids and oak species coexisting in a highly diversified oak forest in Algeria with four native oak species (Quercus suber L., Q. ilex L., Q. canariensis Willd., and Q. afares Pomel). (2) Methods: sixteen plots, including 89 trees from the four native species and their putative hybrids were sampled. Leaves were scanned and their geometric morphometry analyzed by using 11 landmarks on the right side on their abaxial surface. Variation within and among species, and the relationship among oak species and their hybrids were analyzed, utilizing an ANOVA and a canonical analysis using morphoJ software. (3) Results: using the geometric morphometry analysis, we observed that Q. afares shape is intermediate between Q. suber and Q. canariensis, being Q. ilex very different from the others, and that there is no overlap among them. Putative hybrids are morphologically close to Q. afares and, to a lesser extent, to Q. suber and, finally, to Q. ilex and Q. canariensis. (4) Conclusions: the study opens the field for future molecular characterization of hybrids, and for determining their role in terms of adaptation to actual and predicted future climatic conditions. The morphological proximity of hybrids to Q. afares demonstrate this species advantage in the area of study and its importance for the future evolution of the species in the Mediterranean.
Detecting IoT Attacks Using an Ensemble Machine Learning Model
Authors: Tomer Vikas , Sharma Sachin
Published: March 2022

Malicious attacks are becoming more prevalent due to the growing use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in homes, offices, transportation, healthcare, and other locations. By incorporating fog computing into IoT, attacks can be detected in a short amount of time, as the distance between IoT devices and fog devices is smaller than the distance between IoT devices and the cloud. Machine learning is frequently used for the detection of attacks due to the huge amount of data available from IoT devices. However, the problem is that fog devices may not have enough resources, such as processing power and memory, to detect attacks in a timely manner. This paper proposes an approach to offload the machine learning model selection task to the cloud and the real-time prediction task to the fog nodes. Using the proposed method, based on historical data, an ensemble machine learning model is built in the cloud, followed by the real-time detection of attacks on fog nodes. The proposed approach is tested using the NSL-KDD dataset. The results show the effectiveness of the proposed approach in terms of several performance measures, such as execution time, precision, recall, accuracy, and ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curve.
Evaluation of Contextual and Game-Based Training for Phishing Detection
Authors: Kävrestad Joakim , Hagberg Allex , Nohlberg Marcus , Rambusch Jana , Roos Robert , Furnell Steven
Published: March 2022

Cybersecurity is a pressing matter, and a lot of the responsibility for cybersecurity is put on the individual user. The individual user is expected to engage in secure behavior by selecting good passwords, identifying malicious emails, and more. Typical support for users comes from Information Security Awareness Training (ISAT), which makes the effectiveness of ISAT a key cybersecurity issue. This paper presents an evaluation of how two promising methods for ISAT support users in acheiving secure behavior using a simulated experiment with 41 participants. The methods were game-based training, where users learn by playing a game, and Context-Based Micro-Training (CBMT), where users are presented with short information in a situation where the information is of direct relevance. Participants were asked to identify phishing emails while their behavior was monitored using eye-tracking technique. The research shows that both training methods can support users towards secure behavior and that CBMT does so to a higher degree than game-based training. The research further shows that most participants were susceptible to phishing, even after training, which suggests that training alone is insufficient to make users behave securely. Consequently, future research ideas, where training is combined with other support systems, are proposed.
Encapsulation of a Desmodium intortum Protein Isolate Pickering Emulsion of β-Carotene: Stability, Bioaccesibility and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Tang Xue-Mei , Liu Pan-Dao , Chen Zhi-Jian , Li Xin-Yong , Huang Rui , Liu Guo-Dao , Dong Rong-Shu , Chen Jian
Published: March 2022

Owing to their excellent characteristics, Pickering emulsions have been widely used in the development and the application of new carriers for embedding and for delivering active compounds. In this study, β-carotene was successfully encapsulated in a Pickering emulsion stabilized using Desmodium intortum protein isolate (DIPI). The results showed that the encapsulation efficiencies of β-carotene in the control group Tween 20 emulsion (TE) and the DIPI Pickering emulsion (DIPIPE) were 46.7 ± 2.5% and 97.3 ± 0.8%, respectively. After storage for 30 days at 25 °C and 37 °C in a dark environment, approximately 79.4% and 72.1% of β-carotene in DIPIPE were retained. Compared with TE, DIPIPE can improve the stability of β-carotene during storage. In vitro digestion experiments showed that the bioaccessibility rate of β-carotene in DIPIPE was less than that in TE. Cytotoxicity experiments showed that DIPI and β-carotene micelles within a specific concentration range exerted no toxic effects on 3T3 cells. These results indicate that DIPIPE can be used as a good food-grade carrier for embedding and transporting active substances to broaden the application of the protein-based Pickering emulsion system in the development of functional foods.
Larvicidal Efficacy of Ozone and Ultrasound on Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Rat Lungworm) Third-Stage Larvae
Authors: Steel Argon , Platz Matthew S. , Riglos Alyssa-Jade , Garcia Billie Jean , Jacob John , Jarvi Susan I.
Published: March 2022

The parasitic nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis (rat lungworm) is the leading cause of human eosinophilic meningitis worldwide. Most human infections occur through the accidental consumption of A. cantonensis hidden within produce as infectious third-stage larvae (L3), yet little research has been published addressing possible methods to mitigate this means of transmission. Here, we describe our tests of ozone gas—an oxidizing agent—and ultrasound, both used for disinfection of food and municipal water supplies and in industrial cleaning. We found that exposure to ozone, produced using two different commercially available ozone generators over varying durations of time and concentrations, was capable of achieving 100% larval mortality. In addition, we evaluated the impact of different sound frequencies on A. cantonensis L3 survival using two different commercially available ultrasonic cleaners, and found that 60 s of 40 kHz produced 46% mortality within 2 h. The combined use of ultrasound and ozone gas simultaneously resulted in a minimum of 89% normalized mean percent mortality within 2 h of treatment. Our study suggests that both ozone and ultrasound show high larvicidal efficacy, both independently and together, and thus show promise as methods for reducing the risk of rat lungworm infection via accidental consumption.
Pore Structure and Fractal Characteristics of Frozen–Thawed Soft Soil
Authors: Kong Bowen , He Shao-Heng , Tao Yanli , Xia Jianzhong
Published: March 2022

Freezing action always results in great damage to the pore structure and fractal characteristics of freezing–thawing soft soil. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) can help collect data to describe the microstructure of frozen–thawed soft soil. This paper conducted a series of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) tests to interpret the effect of freezing duration, freezing–thawing pressure and freezing temperature on soil’s micro-pore structure and fractal characteristics. The pore size distributions (PSDs) of the tested materials were obtained from the NMR T2 spectra, and fractal theory was introduced to describe the fractal properties of PSD. The results demonstrate that the soil assembly with a larger pore structure tends to be a skeleton pore structure with strong fractal characteristics; the shorter the freezing duration is, the less damage caused by the freezing action; a larger pressure during freezing and thawing results in a lower fractal dimension value for thawing soil’s structure, while a lower freezing temperature causes a larger fractal dimension of frozen-thawed soil.
Numerical Investigations of the Fractional-Order Mathematical Model Underlying Immune-Chemotherapeutic Treatment for Breast Cancer Using the Neural Networks
Authors: Sabir Zulqurnain , Munawar Maham , Abdelkawy Mohamed A. , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor , Ünlü Canan , Jeelani Mdi Begum , Alnahdi Abeer S.
Published: March 2022

The aim of this work is to design a stochastic framework to solve the fractional-order differential model based on the breast cancer progression during the immune-chemotherapeutic treatment phase, including certain control parameters such as anti-cancer medications, ketogenic diet and immune boosters. The developed model considers tumor density progression throughout chemotherapy treatment, as well as an immune response during normal cell–tumor cell interaction. This study’s subject seems to be to demonstrate the implications and significance of the fractional-order breast cancer mathematical model. The goal of these studies is to improve accuracy in the breast cancer model by employing fractional derivatives. This study also includes an integer, nonlinear mathematical system with immune-chemotherapeutic treatment impacts. The mathematical system divides the fractional-order breast cancer mathematical model among four manifestations: normal cell population (N), tumor cells (T), immune response class (I), and estrogen compartment (E), i.e., (NTIE). The fractional-order NTIE mathematical system is still not published previously, nor has it ever been addressed employing the stochastic solvers’ strength. To solve a fractional-order NTIE mathematical system, stochastic solvers based on the Levenberg–Marquardt backpropagation scheme (LMBS) and neural networks (NNs), namely, LMBNNs, are been constructed. To solve the fractional-order NTIE mathematical model, three cases with varying values for this same fractional order have been supplied. The statistics used to offer the numerical solutions of the fractional-order NTIE mathematical model are divided as follows: 75% in training, 15% in testing, and 10% in the authorization. The acquired numerical findings were compared using the reference solutions to determine the accuracy of the LMBNNs using Adams–Bashforth–Moulton. The numerical performances employing error histograms (EHs), state transitions (STs), regression, correlation, including mean square error (MSE) have been further supplied to authenticate overall capability, competence, validity, consistency, as well as exactness of such LMBNNs.
Some q-Fractional Estimates of Trapezoid like Inequalities Involving Raina’s Function
Authors: Nonlaopon Kamsing , Awan Muhammad Uzair , Javed Muhammad Zakria , Budak Hüseyin , Noor Muhammad Aslam
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we derive two new identities involving q-Riemann-Liouville fractional integrals. Using these identities, as auxiliary results, we derive some new q-fractional estimates of trapezoidal-like inequalities, essentially using the class of generalized exponential convex functions.
Selection of the Reference Gene for Expression Normalization in Salsola ferganica under Abiotic Stress
Authors: Wang Shuran , Zhang Sheng
Published: March 2022

Salsola ferganica is a natural desert herbaceous plant in the arid area of western and northwestern China. Because of its salt tolerance and drought resistance, it is of great significance in desert afforestation and sand-fixing capacity. There has been much research on the genes involved in plants under desert stresses in recent years. The application of the best internal reference genes for standardization was a critical procedure in analyzing the gene expression under different types. Even so, the reference gene has not been reported in the application of gene expression normalization of S. ferganica. In this study, nine reference genes (TUA-1726, TUA-1760, TUB, GAPDH, ACT, 50S, HSC70, APT, and U-box) in S. ferganica were adopted and analyzed under six different treatments (ABA, heat, cold, NaCl, methyl viologen (MV), and PEG). The applicability of candidate genes was evaluated by statistical software, including geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and RefFinder, based on their stability values in all the treatments. These results indicated that the simultaneous selection of two stable reference genes would fully standardize the optimization of the normalization research. To verify the feasibility of the above internal reference genes, the CT values of AP2/ERF transcription factor family genes were standardized using the most (ACT) and least (GAPDH) stable reference genes in S. ferganica seedlings under six abiotic stresses. The research showed that HSC70 and U-box were the most appropriate reference genes in ABA stressed samples, and ACT and U-box genes were the optimal references for heat-stressed samples. TUA-1726 and U-box showed the smallest value in gene expression levels of cold treatment. The internal reference groups of the best applicability for the other samples were U-box and ACT under NaCl treatment, ACT and TUA-1726 under MV stress, HSC70 and TUB under PEG treatment, and ACT in all samples. ACT and U-box showed higher stability than the other genes based on the comprehensive stability ranking of RefFinder, as determined by the geometric mean in this study. These results will contribute to later gene expression studies in other closely related species and provide an important foundation for gene expression analysis in S. ferganica.
Using Sex-Linked Markers via Genotyping-by-Sequencing to Identify XX/XY Sex Chromosomes in the Spiny Frog (Quasipaa boulengeri)
Authors: Yang Xusheng , Luo Wei , Xia Yun , Zeng Xiaomao
Published: March 2022

We used genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) to identify sex-linked markers in 43 wild-collected spiny frog (Quasipaa boulengeri) adults from a single site. We identified a total of 1049 putatively sex-linked GBS-tags, 98% of which indicated an XX/XY system, and finally confirmed 574 XY-type sex-linked loci. The sex specificity of five markers was further validated by PCR amplification using a large number of additional individuals from 26 populations of this species. A total of 27 sex linkage markers matched with the Dmrt1 gene, showing a conserved role in sex determination and differentiation in different organisms from flies and nematodes to mammals. Chromosome 1, which harbors Dmrt1, was considered as the most likely candidate sex chromosome in anurans. Five sex-linked SNP makers indicated sex reversals, which are sparsely present in wild amphibian populations, in three out of the one-hundred and thirty-three explored individuals. The variety of sex-linked markers identified could be used in population genetics analyses requiring information on individual sex or in investigations aimed at drawing inferences about sex determination and sex chromosome evolution.
Implications of Dosage Deficiencies in CTCF and Cohesin on Genome Organization, Gene Expression, and Human Neurodevelopment
Authors: Cummings Christopher T. , Rowley M. Jordan
Published: March 2022

Properly organizing DNA within the nucleus is critical to ensure normal downstream nuclear functions. CTCF and cohesin act as major architectural proteins, working in concert to generate thousands of high-intensity chromatin loops. Due to their central role in loop formation, a massive research effort has been dedicated to investigating the mechanism by which CTCF and cohesin create these loops. Recent results lead to questioning the direct impact of CTCF loops on gene expression. Additionally, results of controlled depletion experiments in cell lines has indicated that genome architecture may be somewhat resistant to incomplete deficiencies in CTCF or cohesin. However, heterozygous human genetic deficiencies in CTCF and cohesin have illustrated the importance of their dosage in genome architecture, cellular processes, animal behavior, and disease phenotypes. Thus, the importance of considering CTCF or cohesin levels is especially made clear by these heterozygous germline variants that characterize genetic syndromes, which are increasingly recognized in clinical practice. Defined primarily by developmental delay and intellectual disability, the phenotypes of CTCF and cohesin deficiency illustrate the importance of architectural proteins particularly in neurodevelopment. We discuss the distinct roles of CTCF and cohesin in forming chromatin loops, highlight the major role that dosage of each protein plays in the amplitude of observed effects on gene expression, and contrast these results to heterozygous mutation phenotypes in murine models and clinical patients. Insights highlighted by this comparison have implications for future research into these newly emerging genetic syndromes.
Are miRNAs Dynamic Biomarkers in Keratoconus? A Review of the Literature
Authors: Stunf Pukl Spela
Published: March 2022

Aim: A review of miRNA (microRNA) profiling studies in keratoconus. Methods: Literature search strategy—PubMed central database, using miRNA or microRNA and keratoconus as keywords. Results: Eleven experimental or clinical studies on humans regarding miRNA and keratoconus, published in English between 2009 and 2020 were retrieved. Conclusion: The publications regarding the role of miRNAs in keratoconus are scarce and diverse but provide some valuable information about potential new mechanisms of keratoconus development and progression. The cornea expresses almost 300 different miRNAs, 18 of which are specific, and miR-184 is by far the most abundant, with expression restricted to central basal and suprabasal epithelial cells. Mutations in the seed region of MIR184 were proved to be rare and nonspecific in patients with isolated keratoconus. Overall, in keratoconus, a total of 29 miRNAs were upregulated, and 11 were downregulated. It appeared that miR-143-3p, miR-182-5p, and miR-92a-3p were highly expressed, while the miRNAs connected to cell–cell junction, cell division, and motor activity were downregulated. In less advanced forms, altered expression of four miRNAs—miR-151a-3p, miR-194-5p, miR-195-5p, miR-185-5p—was proved in the cone epithelium; in contrast, in advanced keratoconus, the expression of miR-151a-3p and miR-194-5p remained altered, changes in the expression of miR-195 and miR-185 were not reported, and the expression of miR-138-5p, miR-146b-5p, miR-28-5p, and miR-181a-2-3p was also altered in the corneal epithelium. Keratoconus is a dynamic process of corneal stromal thinning that might result from a dynamic miRNA expression in the corneal epithelium exposed to environmental and behavioral factors causing repetitive traumas. Further experimental studies are needed to prove this hypothesis.
Analysis of HVSR Data Using a Modified Centroid-Based Algorithm for Near-Surface Geological Reconstruction
Authors: Capizzi Patrizia , Martorana Raffaele
Published: March 2022

Recently, the use of microtremor techniques for subsoil investigation has increased significantly. The HVSR (Horizontal to Vertical Spectral Ratio) technique allows, in many cases, to obtain a seismo-stratigraphic reconstruction of the subsoil and to identify areas with similar seismic behavior. However, the stratigraphic interpretation of the HVSR peaks still remains a subjective choice and linked to a priori information. A non-hierarchical centroid-based algorithm was modified to group HVSR peaks of different measurements that can be attributed to the same generating seismic discontinuity. Some tests performed have shown that the proposed algorithm produces valid results even in the absence of a priori information to evaluate the choice of the optimal grouping. The results obtained for HVSR measurements acquired in the city of Modica (Italy) are presented. The cluster analysis of these data and the information on the lithologies outcropping in the area made it possible to reconstruct a 3D model of the main seismo-stratigraphic discontinuities.
Factors Affecting Hospitalization and Death of Older Patients Who Need Long-Term Care—The Necessity of the Support for Dysphagia in Home Dental Care
Authors: Wakasugi Yoko , Susa Chiaki , Murata Shino , Aida Jun , Sasaki Jun , Furuya Junichi , Tohara Haruka
Published: March 2022

The demand for home dental care is increasing, but how it should be involved in the continuation of life at home for elderly people who need care has not been examined. Therefore, we examined whether items examined by dentists can affect hospitalization and death. The study included 239 patients with oral intake. They were divided into regular and non-regular diet groups, and ages, nutritional statuses, activities of daily living (ADLs), Charlson Comorbidity Indexes (CCI) and swallowing functions were compared. The nutritional statuses and ADLs of the three groups at the first visit and after one year were compared. The groups included those with stable, declined and improved diet forms. Factors influencing hospitalization and death over three years were examined. Nutritional status, swallowing function, CCI and ADLs were worse in the non-regular diet group. The declined diet form group had lower ADL levels and nutritional statuses at the first visit. A proportional hazards analysis showed significant differences in the changes in diet form for the stable and declined groups related to hospitalization (hazard ratio (HR): 6.53) and death (HR: 3.76). Changes in diet form were thought to affect hospitalization and death, and it is worthwhile to assess swallowing function in home dental care.
Cross Sectional Study on the Association between Dental Caries and Life Habits in School Age Italian Children
Authors: Ciribè Massimiliano , Galeotti Angela , Dolci Chiara , Gargiullo Livia , Mammone Martina , Cirillo Erika , Festa Paola , La Torre Giuseppe
Published: March 2022

Dental caries is still a major public health issue and influences the overall health of children. The risk factors for caries include biological, socio-behavioral, and environmental factors. Our aim is to assess the association between dental caries and the life habits of children and their parents. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Rome (Italy) among primary school children aged 5 to 11. Parents completed the anamnestic questionnaire, and a dental clinical examination was performed on 333 children. Caries prevalence was 38.7% overall, 47% in males and 31.9% in females. The association between bottle night-time feeding and caries was statistically significant (43.2%; p = 0.013). Usage of a honeyed pacifier was also significantly associated with the presence of caries (72.7%; p = 0.027). Finally, higher caries prevalence was found among male children (47% vs. 31.9%; p = 0.005). The present study shows that the percentage of caries is still high in the paediatric population, and caries prevalence is associated with life habits. Our results highlight the importance of oral health education programs at primary school that involve teachers and parents to contribute to improving lifestyles.
Metabolic Phenotypes—The Game Changer in Quality of Life of Obese Patients?
Authors: Mitu Ivona , Preda Cristina , Dimitriu Cristina Daniela , Mitu Ovidiu , Costache Irina Iuliana , Ciocoiu Manuela
Published: March 2022

Background: The present study aimed to investigate the association of obesity phenotypes and quality of life (QoL) scales and their relationship with fat mass (FM) parameters. Methods: This study categorized 104 subjects into 4 obesity phenotypes based on BMI and metabolic syndrome status: metabolically healthy obese (MHO), metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO), metabolically healthy non-obese (MHNO), and metabolically unhealthy non-obese (MUNO). Body composition was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and metabolic profile was characterized by blood samples. All subjects completed the SF-36 item Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire. Results: Comparing the four obesity phenotypes, significant results were reported for Bodily Pain between MHNO/MUNO (p = 0.034), for Vitality between MHO/MUO (p = 0.024), and for Mental Component Score between MHO/MUO (p = 0.026) and MUO/MUNO (p = 0.003). A more thorough inside-groups analysis yielded a positive and moderate to high correlation between FM parameters and QoL scales in MHO and MHNO, while a negative and weak to moderate correlation was observed in MUO and MUNO. Conclusion: This study reported an inverse U-shaped relationship between FM and QoL in obesity phenotypes, suggesting that metabolic status is a key factor involved in modulating QoL and therefore challenging the idea of obesity as a main driver of low QoL. We recommend the inclusion of FM percentage in the definition of obesity phenotypes in future research, to better evaluate QoL of obesity phenotypes.
Saprochete capitata: Emerging Infections from Uncommon Microorganisms in Hematological Diseases
Authors: Duminuco Andrea , Vetro Calogero , Maugeri Cinzia , Mauro Elisa , Palumbo Giuseppe A. M. , Parisi Marina S. , Esposito Benedetta , Giuliano Giuseppe , Romano Alessandra , Di Raimondo Francesco
Published: March 2022

Infections occurring in immunocompromised patients after intensive chemotherapy are often difficult to eradicate and are capable of even being fatal. New emergent and dangerous drug-resistant micro-organisms are likely to appear in these specific scenarios. Clinical features mainly include progressive pneumonia, bacteriemia/fungemia, or extrapulmonary dissemination among infections. The treatment of these microorganisms is still an open challenge since there is a lack of clear treatment guidelines. Indeed, infections from these microorganisms can lead to a rapidly fatal clinical course in immunocompromised patients, especially those who have acute leukemia. We describe the case of a young patient with acute myeloid leukemia who contracted an infection from Saprochaete capitata during post-chemotherapy aplasia.
Formation and Evaluation of Complete Blood Count Proficiency Testing Program
Authors: Vu Huy Quang , Le Oanh Hoang , Truong Duan Cong , Nguyen Dung Ngoc , Van Triet Hy , Le Van Thi Kieu , Vang Linh Thi Truc
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The haematology external quality assessment (EQA) scheme is the most commonly used service of quality assurance. The provision of complete blood count (CBC) materials must meet the quality requirements at a reasonable cost. These requirements are the most significant challenges for EQA organisers in Vietnam. This study’s objective was to evaluate the homogeneity, long-term stability, and peer-group performance of 10-parameter stabilised CBC EQA samples. Methods: The CBC EQA material was prepared using the following steps, including (1) adjusting levels of stabilised erythrocyte, leukocyte, and platelet samples, (2) mixing those cells into batches at three levels, and (3) dispensing and storing them at 2–6 °C. A set of 10 and 30 specimens were randomly chosen from each batch to study the homogeneity and long-term stability following ISO 13528:2015. In total, 166 samples at two levels were randomly distributed to 40 participants, which reported 83 automatic cell counters among six automated analyser models in the CBC EQA program. Results: The 10-parameter stabilised CBC EQA materials at three levels became homogeneous and stable in 12 weeks when preserved at 2–6 °C. Meanwhile, for five parameters (RBC, Hb, MCH, MCV, and MPV), this process was prolonged for up to 16 weeks in stock condition. In terms of peer-group performance, the CV (%) values increased at the low concentration for almost all parameters, especially in platelet counts. Conclusions: The stabilised CBC EQA samples prepared using the partial fixation method with aldehyde and gutaraldehyde in this study meet the ISO 13528:2015 requirements of homogeneity and long-term stability for the CBC EQA scheme. Analytical performance evaluation should categorise participant methods into peer groups.
Flood-Pulse Variability and Climate Change Effects Increase Uncertainty in Fish Yields: Revisiting Narratives of Declining Fish Catches in India’s Ganga River
Authors: Kelkar Nachiket , Arthur Rohan , Dey Subhasis , Krishnaswamy Jagdish
Published: March 2022

River-floodplains support a significant number of small-scale capture fisheries despite having undergone degradation due to human modification of river flows by dams, pollution, and climate change. River fish production is underpinned by the annual flood-pulse and associated environmental changes that act as cues for spawning and dispersal for most species. However, studies on fish stock declines have focused more on overfishing than on hydroclimatic variability. Therefore, understanding how changes in flood-pulse variability influence fishing effort and yields is critical to inform adaptive fisheries’ management. We investigated hydroclimatic factors driving flood-pulse variability and fish catch–effort dynamics in India’s Ganga River over two decades (2000–2020). We compiled fishers’ narratives of changing fish catches through semi-structured interviews to compare them with our observed trends. Flood amplitude showed increasing variability, longer duration, and earlier rise timings, linked to La Niña and El Niño phases. Catches per unit effort were correlated with total yield and effort but did not decline as fishers thought, despite overall declines in yield over time. Hydroclimatic variability was a more significant driver of changing yields than local fishing pressure. Rising uncertainty in fisheries’ production, in response to increasing flood-pulse variability and altered flows in the Gangetic Plains, may be affecting fishing behaviour and underlying resource conflicts.
SARS-CoV-2 Transmission Risk Model in an Urban Area of Mexico, Based on GIS Analysis and Viral Load
Authors: Barajas-Carrillo Victor Wagner , Covantes-Rosales Carlos Eduardo , Zambrano-Soria Mercedes , Castillo-Pacheco Lucia Amapola , Girón-Pérez Daniel Alberto , Mercado-Salgado Ulises , Ojeda-Durán Ansonny Jhovanny , Vázquez-Pulido Erica Yolanda , Girón-Pérez Manuel Iván
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted health systems vulnerabilities, as well as thoughtlessness by governments and society. Due to the nature of this contingency, the use of geographic information systems (GIS) is essential to understand the SARS-CoV-2 distribution dynamics within a defined geographic area. This work was performed in Tepic, a medium-sized city in Mexico. The residence of 834 COVID-19 infected individuals was georeferenced and categorized by viral load (Ct). The analysis took place during the maximum contagion of the first four waves of COVID-19 in Mexico, analyzing 158, 254, 143, and 279 cases in each wave respectively. Then heatmaps were built and categorized into five areas ranging from very low to very high risk of contagion, finding that the second wave exhibited a greater number of cases with a high viral load. Additionally, a spatial analysis was performed to measure urban areas with a higher risk of contagion, during this wave this area had 19,203.08 km2 (36.11% of the city). Therefore, a kernel density spatial model integrated by meaningful variables such as the number of infected subjects, viral load, and place of residence in cities, to establish geographic zones with different degrees of infection risk, could be useful for decision-making in future epidemic events.
Influence of School Backpack Load as a Variable Affecting Gait Kinematics among Seven-Year-Old Children
Authors: Tomal Paulina , Fryzowicz Anna , Skorupska Elżbieta , Dworak Lechosław B.
Published: March 2022

This article investigates schoolchildren’s ability to carry an additional load using a backpack (BP). According to scientific research, there is no precise limit to the maximum backpack load, which varies from 10% to 15% of body weight (BW). The purpose of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the influence of an additional external load carried using a backpack on gait kinematics among seven-year-old children in Poland, including assessment of the gender differences. The study was conducted among 26 (13 boys and 13 girls) primary school children aged seven years. The children walked at their preferred speed, under four conditions: with no load (0% BW) and with 10%, 15% and 20% BW. Spatiotemporal parameters were measured using the 2 m Footscan® platform system and photocell Sectro timing system. The children walked more slowly under an additional load. Their step length and single support time decreased. Their base of support, step time and double support time increased. There was no significant effect on their stride length or gait cycle time. The gait kinematic changes were most evident between 10% BW and greater loading. The results highlight how children’s gait is affected by carrying additional external loads, which should not exceed 10% BW. That limit is appropriate for both genders.
Phase One of a Global Evaluation of Suction-Based Airway Clearance Devices in Foreign Body Airway Obstructions: A Retrospective Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Dunne Cody L. , Osman Selena , Viguers Kayla , Queiroga Ana Catarina , Szpilman David , Peden Amy E.
Published: March 2022

Background: Choking is a prevalent source of injury and mortality worldwide. Traditional choking interventions, including abdominal thrusts and back blows, have remained the standard of care for decades despite limited published data. Suction-based airway clearance devices (ACDs) are becoming increasingly popular and there is an urgent need to evaluate their role in choking intervention. The aim of this study was to describe the effectiveness (i.e., resolution of choking symptoms) and safety (i.e., adverse events) of identified airway clearance devices interventions to date. Methods: This retrospective descriptive analysis included any individual who self-identified to manufacturers as having used an ACD as a choking intervention prior to 1 July 2021. Records were included if they contained three clinical variables (patient’s age, type of foreign body, and resolution of choking symptoms). Researchers performed data extraction using a standardized form which included patient, situational, and outcome variables. Results: The analysis included 124 non-invasive (LifeVac©) and 61 minimally invasive (Dechoker©) ACD interventions. Median patient age was 40 (LifeVac©, 2–80) and 73 (Dechoker©, 5–84) with extremes of age being most common [<5 years: LifeVac© 37.1%, Dechoker© 23.0%; 80+ years: 27.4%, 37.7%]. Food was the most frequent foreign body (LifeVac© 84.7%, Dechoker© 91.8%). Abdominal thrusts (LifeVac© 37.9%, Dechoker© 31.1%) and back blows (LifeVac© 39.5%, Dechoker© 41.0%) were often co-interventions. Resolution of choking symptoms occurred following use of the ACD in 123 (LifeVac©) and 60 (Dechoker©) cases. Three adverse events (1.6%) were reported: disconnection of bellows/mask during intervention (LifeVac©), a lip laceration (Dechoker©), and an avulsed tooth (Dechoker©). Conclusion: Initial available data has shown ACDs to be promising in the treatment of choking. However, limitations in data collection methods and quality exist. The second phase of this evaluation will be an industry independent, prospective assessment in order to improve data quality, and inform future choking intervention algorithms.
Sustainability of Hiking in Combination with Coaching in Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Quality of Life
Authors: Huber Daniela , Mayr Michaela , Hartl Arnulf , Sittenthaler Sandra , Traut-Mattausch Eva , Weisböck-Erdheim Renate , Freidl Johanna
Published: March 2022

Although strong evidence shows that physical inactivity and sedentary behavior are associated with many negative health outcomes, inactive lifestyles are still increasing. Consequently, new approaches must be developed to increase adherence to an active lifestyle and hence a longer life. Green exercise and health coaching could be effective ways to induce long-lasting lifestyle changes geared towards more physical activity. In this randomized controlled trial, we investigated the effects of mountain hiking and psychological coaching on adults with a sedentary lifestyle. The coaching group (n = 26) participated in a 7-day guided hiking program with three personal coaching sessions, whereas the hiking group (n = 32) received no coaching. The effects on aerobic capacity, spirometry and quality of life were assessed at baseline (day 0), after the intervention week (day 7) and after 80 days. Fully nonparametric statistical analysis revealed a gender-based effect for aerobic capacity—the female participants of the coaching group showed a greater improvement (p = 0.03) than the hiking group. No significant effects were found for spirometry. Quality of life parameters improved in both groups. In conclusion, both green exercise and health coaching are capable of inducing improvements in health-related quality of life and cardiorespiratory fitness. No superior effects of health coaching were found.
Attitudes toward Transsexuality, Empathy, and Bullying in Young Population
Authors: Esteban Mora Jesús , Morales Rodríguez Francisco Manuel , Martínez Ramón Juan Pedro
Published: March 2022

Affective-sexual and gender diversity is an increasingly distinctive and extended reality and should be acknowledged and respected. From a psychosocial and educational point of view, it is appropriate to review young people’s attitudes and knowledge regarding this, relating them to aspects such as empathy, violence, or bullying, to implement quality education in the early stages of primary education. The main objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between empathy levels, attitudes toward transsexuality, and bullying among Spanish university students. The sample consisted of 247 students. Instruments were administered to evaluate negative attitudes toward transsexual people, gender ideology, transphobia, bullying, and empathy. Inverse relationships were found between transphobia and empathy. Regression analysis demonstrated the predictive ability of empathy on attitudes toward transsexual people. The results of this study are expected to increase awareness in society and encourage appropriate, satisfactory, or tolerable coexistence, in which all individuals can be free to live and express themselves. While the results indicated that the quality of life of transgender people has comparatively improved, there is still a long way to go.
The Impact of Recent Tobacco Regulations and COVID-19 Restrictions and Implications for Future E-Cigarette Retail: Perspectives from Vape and Vape-and-Smoke Shop Merchants
Authors: Duan Zongshuan , Romm Katelyn F. , Henriksen Lisa , Schleicher Nina C. , Johnson Trent O. , Wagener Theodore L. , Sussman Steven Y. , Schillo Barbara A. , Huang Jidong , Berg Carla J.
Published: March 2022

Background: Tobacco regulations and COVID-19 state orders have substantially impacted vape retail. This study assessed vape retailers’ perspectives regarding regulations and future retail activities. Methods: In March–June 2021, 60 owners or managers of vape or vape-and-smoke shops (n = 34 vs. n = 26) in six US metropolitan areas completed an online survey assessing: (1) current and future promotional strategies and product offerings; and (2) experiences with federal minimum legal sales age (T21) policies, the federal flavored e-cigarette ban, and COVID-19-related orders. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively; qualitative responses to open-ended questions were thematically analyzed. Results: Most participants had websites (65.0%), used social media for promotion (71.7%), offered curbside pickup (51.7%), and sold CBD (e.g., 73.3% vape products, 80.0% other); many also sold other tobacco products. Knowledge varied regarding state/local policies in effect before federal policies. Participants perceived tobacco regulations and COVID-19 orders as somewhat easy to understand/implement and perceived noncompliance consequences as somewhat severe. Qualitative themes indicated concerns regarding regulations’ negative impacts (e.g., sales/customer loss, customers switching to combustibles), insufficient evidence base, challenges explaining regulations to customers, and concerns about future regulatory actions. Conclusions: Surveillance of tobacco retail, consumer behavior, and regulatory compliance is warranted as policies regarding nicotine and cannabis continue evolving.