bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High altitude horse use and early horse transport in eastern Eurasia: New evidence from melting ice
Authors: Taylor William Timothy Treal , Hart Isaac A , Tuvshinjargal Tumurbaatar , Bayarsaikhan Jamsranjav , Jarman Nicholas L , Bittner Peter , López Calle Paula , Blakeslee Logan A , Zahir Muhammad , Chauvey Lorelei , Tressières Gaëtan , Tonasso-Calvière Laure , Schiavinato Stéphanie , Cruaud Corinne , Aury Jean-Marc , Oliveira Pedro H , Wincker Patrick , Orlando Ludovic
Published: June 2024

While few places on earth have been as deeply impacted by the human-horse relationship as the steppes of Mongolia and eastern Eurasia, gaps in the archaeological record have made it strikingly difficult to trace when and how the first domestic horses were integrated into ancient societies in this key region of the world. Recently, organic materials preserved in melting mountain ice have emerged as a key source of archaeological insight into the region’s deep past. Newly-identified artefacts recovered from melting snow and ice in the Altai Mountain range of western Mongolia (including metal artefacts, skeletal remains, and hoof fragments) provide archaeological evidence for the use of horses at high altitudes from the Bronze Age through the 20th century. Direct radiocarbon dating and genomic sequencing demonstrate the presence of Przewalski’s horse in the region during the early second millennium BCE, suggesting that this taxon may have once foraged at high altitudes frequented by human hunters. Importantly, directly-dated remains of horse hoof trimmings provide some of the oldest direct evidence of horse transport in the Eastern Steppe as early as the 14th century BCE, and suggest a role for high-mountain hunting in the innovation of reliable mounted riding.
Cognitive, affective, and behavioral engagement with science news predicted by the use of accessibility strategies in science-minded and general audiences
Authors: Zimmerman Ifat , Tal Tali , Baram-Tsabari Ayelet
Published: June 2024

Numerous studies have explored internal factors such as cultural values and acquired knowledge accounting for how people engage with science. However, it remains unclear how external factors embedded in science texts relate to audience engagement. A content analysis of 298 text-based popular science news articles and their following 5852 reader comments was conducted in two Israeli audiences, science-minded and general readers, to explore how the accessibility strategies embedded in these articles relate to cognitive, affective, and behavioral engagement. Findings indicated similar patterns of relationship between accessibility strategies and engagement expressions for both audiences; however, the relationships were more pronounced for general readers compared to science-minded readers. Using jargon and a narrative writing style increased the odds of positive emotions in reader comments, whereas addressing socio-scientific issues increased the odds of cognitive expressions. These results may contribute to a fuller understanding of ways to drive meaningful public engagement.
Causes of morbidity and mortality in wild cottontail rabbits in the eastern United States, 2013–2022
Authors: Weyna Alisia A. W. , Andreasen Victoria A. , Burrell Caitlin E. , Kunkel Melanie R. , Radisic Rebecca , Goodwin Chloe C. , Fenton Heather , Dugovich Brian S. , Poulson Rebecca L. , Ruder Mark G. , Yabsley Michael J. , Sanchez Susan , Nemeth Nicole M.
Published: June 2024

Interest in causes of mortality of free-ranging, native North American lagomorphs has grown with the emergence of rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2 (RHDV2). Over the years 2013–2022, the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study received 119 Sylvilagus spp. case submissions from the central and eastern United States, comprising 147 rabbits. Most (86%) of these submissions occurred after detecting RHDV2 in the United States in 2020. Laboratory data from these rabbits were retrospectively evaluated for major causes, contributors to mortality, and pathogen detections. Gross and histologic examination was performed for 112 rabbits. Common primary causes of death included trauma ( n = 49), bacterial disease ( n = 31), emaciation ( n = 6), and parasitism ( n = 6). Among the 32 rabbits with bacterial disease, 12 were diagnosed with tularemia and 7 with pasteurellosis. Rabbits with pasteurellosis had disseminated abscessation, septicemia, and/or polyserositis. Less commonly, cutaneous fibroma ( n = 2), notoedric mange ( n = 2), encephalitozoonosis ( n = 2), neoplasia (round-cell sarcoma; n = 1), and congenital abnormalities ( n = 1) were diagnosed. RHDV2 was not detected in 123 rabbits tested. Although RHDV2 has not been detected in wild lagomorphs in the eastern United States, detections in domestic rabbits from the region emphasize the need for continued surveillance. Furthermore, continued surveillance for Francisella tularensis informs public health risk. Overall, increased knowledge of Sylvilagus spp. health furthers our understanding of diseases affecting these important prey and game species.
Envisioning User Agency During Development of a Website for Natural Hazard Communication
Authors: Stephens Sonia H. , Altamirano Amanda
Published: June 2024

This study describes the pathways by which prospective users of a website for natural hazard communication experienced agency as user-centered design (UCD) participants. Formative interviews with residents, community managers, and outreach professionals revealed two pathways for agency during the design process—by directly influencing design changes and by indirectly affecting developers’ understanding of user needs—and previewed users’ potential agency during real-world use. Findings reveal how agential opportunities were constrained by UCD structure and choices of the development team. The authors discuss how supporting user agency during UCD can improve design and support buy-in for humanistic methods in interdisciplinary research teams.
Which Communication Skills Do I Need? A Multimethod Study of Communication Needs in Construction Engineering
Authors: Coffelt Tina A. , Madson Katherine , Raju Neha , Shane Jennifer S.
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the communication skills expected of recent construction engineering graduates as portrayed in job ads and conveyed by employers. A content analysis of 100 job ads showed that teamwork, leadership, and interpersonal communication skills were the specific categories of communication skills listed most frequently. Subsequent interviews with 11 employers showed that although they considered the written communication skills of recent college graduates as sufficient, they found that many recent graduates had insufficient skills in assertiveness, email communication, relationship building, and audience adaptation, indicating that additional coursework or assignments in oral communication skills would benefit construction engineering majors.
The Workforce Entry and Teaching Responsibilities of New Music Education Graduates: Evidence From a State Longitudinal Data System
Authors: Miller David S.
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate Maryland music teacher education program completers’ background and transition into the K–12 public school music teacher ( N = 700). Using data from the Maryland Longitudinal Data System between 2008 and 2020, I examined characteristics associated with music teacher employment in the public schools, the job responsibilities of new music teachers, the characteristics of schools in which new music teachers were employed, and how the school in which new music teachers were employed was similar or dissimilar to the high school from which they graduated. Overall, approximately 59% of music education graduates subsequently taught in Maryland K–12 public schools. Most new teachers taught in elementary (60%) or middle schools (30%). Teaching responsibilities of new teachers included general music (59%), chorus (29%), band (26%), and orchestra (22%). Implications for music teacher education and policy recommendations for music teacher shortages are discussed.
Inclusive Sourcing: Exploring Missing Links in Procurement and Contracting That Adversely Affect the Upward Mobility of Minority Businesses
Authors: Hill James A , Chu Soh Hyun , Blount Ian
Published: June 2024

While large purchasing organizations (LPOs) continue to push their supplier diversity and development efforts, disparities remain between minority- and majority-owned businesses. We examine existing disparities, investigate the factors contributing to these gaps, and discuss how LPOs may improve their engagement initiatives with minority-owned businesses, leading to mutual economic success. Through interviews with representatives of minority- and majority-owned businesses, we uncover the difficulties that minority-owned businesses face in accessing LPOs. They receive fewer development opportunities and are less upwardly mobile than their majority-owned counterparts. Trust emerged as a critical factor required for minority-owned businesses to gain access to LPOs. We explore additional factors that may influence LPO procurement decisions beyond racial biases, such as the dense networks of minority-owned businesses, the risks associated with engaging minority-owned businesses, and the complexity of LPO organizational structures. This essay contributes to the operations and supply chain literature on diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing researchers and LPOs with a pragmatic view of their buyer–supplier relationships and strategies to improve contracting practices with minority-owned businesses.
Evaluating the Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis of Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with Exon 20 Insertions
Authors: Wang Haibo , Xu Yiquan , Lin Jinlan , Huang Yunjian
Published: June 2024

Background

Epidermal growth factor receptor exon 20 insertion (EGFR ex20ins), an uncommon mutation in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), can induce poor patient response to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKI). However, the clinical features and prognosis of patients with EGFR ex20ins are not clearly understood. This study investigated the clinical characteristics and prognosis of advanced NSCLC patients with EGFR ex20ins.

Methods

Advanced NSCLC patients treated at Fujian Cancer Hospital were consecutively recruited from June 1, 2014 to December 20, 2021 and retrospectively examined. EGFR ex20ins was identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or next-generation sequencing (NGS). The clinical characteristics, treatment methods, and patient outcomes were retrieved from the hospital database. The progression-free survival (PFS)  and overall survival (OS) were assessed by Kaplan-Meier analysis.

Results

Fourteen mutation subtypes of EGFR ex20ins were identified in the 24 enrolled patients, with EGFR ex20ins mutation more prevalent in non-smoking women. A763_Y764insFQEA and A767_V769dup (12.5% for both) were the most common mutation subtypes. Notably, no significant differences in PFS and OS were found between the first-line targeted therapy group [PFS: 257 days, 95% confidence interval (CI): 116-397 days; OS: not reached] and chemotherapy-based combination therapy group (PFS: 182 days, 95% CI: 156-207 days; OS: 998 days, 95% CI: 674-1321 days). TP53 mutation was the commonest concomitant mutation (62%), followed by EGFR amplification (25%). Chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy improved the prognosis of patients with high PD-L1 expression.

Conclusion

For NSCLC patients with EGFR ex20ins, limited therapeutic benefits can be gleaned from either EGFR-TKIs or chemotherapy-based combination therapy.
Active suspension control using novel HB3C optimized LQR controller for vibration suppression and ride comfort enhancement
Authors: Haseen S. Fahira , Lakshmi P.
Published: June 2024

This article addresses the optimization of a Vehicle Active Suspension System (VASS) through the application of a Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) controller. The primary objective is to enhance ride comfort and ensure vehicle stability by addressing the divergent needs of vibration control. The research identifies key issues in existing optimization algorithms, namely, the exploration stage inefficiency in Big Bang Big Crunch Optimization (B3C) and the slow convergence rate in Coyote Optimization (CO). To overcome these challenges, a novel hybrid algorithm, Hybrid Coyote optimization based Big Bang Big Crunch (HB3C), is proposed. The research objective is to optimize the LQR weighting matrices using the HB3C algorithm, aiming for improved ride comfort and vehicle safety. The problem statement involves the inadequacies of existing algorithms in addressing the exploration and convergence issues. The motivation lies in enhancing the efficiency of VASS through optimal control, leading to better ride comfort and safety. The methodology involves integrating CO within a loop with B3C to compute the optimum reduction rate for the algorithm. Since, B3C algorithm’s success is highly dependent on selecting the ideal reduction rate. This hybrid approach is then applied to optimize the existing LQR weighting matrices. The results are evaluated in terms of time domain and frequency domain response analysis, with a focus on ride comfort based on ISO 2631-1 standards. The study demonstrates a maximum reduction of approximately 74% achieved by the optimized HB3C-LQR controllers.
Planning for Homelessness: Land Use Policy, Housing Markets, and Cities’ Homelessness Responses
Authors: Einstein Katherine Levine , Willison Charley E.
Published: June 2024

Many American cities are in the midst of a homelessness crisis. Through their control over zoning and land use policy, local governments can reduce homelessness by facilitating housing construction and improving housing affordability. Using administrative data and surveys of local public officials, this paper asks whether (and which) cities connect their homelessness and land use policies. We find that cities rarely link homelessness policies with zoning and land use. Cities in California and the Pacific region are generally more likely to make these connections, suggesting an important state role in guiding local homeless and planning policies. Cities with high and low levels of unsheltered homelessness show little difference in their propensity to connect land use and zoning policies with homelessness.
Adherence of Patients to Methods of Self-Reduction of Shoulder Dislocation Taught via Smartphones: A Medium-Term Follow-up Survey
Authors: Rabin Alon , Chechik Ofir , Maman Eran , Warschawski Yaniv , Factor Shai , Gurel Ron , Rotman Dani , Kazum Efi
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Self-reduction of a shoulder dislocation may reduce the time from injury to reduction and to the relief of patient discomfort. The purpose of this study was to assess adherence to earlier acquired self-reduction techniques during real-time recurrent shoulder dislocation.

Methods

A telephone survey was conducted among 58 patients previously taught shoulder self-reduction via an instructional video sent to their smartphones during a visit to the emergency department (ED) for the treatment of anterior shoulder dislocation. Participants were queried on recurrent dislocations, use of self-reduction methods, success rate, the effect that instruction in self-reduction had on their willingness to participate in recreational sports activities, on the decision to avoid surgery, and on the overall level of satisfaction with self-reduction methods.

Results

Forty-five patients (77.6%; average age 31.4±11.7 y, 10 females) were available for follow-up at an average 60.8±11.0 mo after the index visit to the ED. Eighteen of 23 patients (78.2%) who experienced a recurrent dislocation during the follow-up period attempted self-reduction, and 12 of them successfully achieved self-reduction. Sixteen patients (35.6%) reported that the knowledge in self-reduction increased their willingness to participate in recreational sports activities, whereas 4 (8.9%) patients reported that knowledge in self-reduction affected their decision not to undergo surgical stabilization.

Conclusions

Individuals who sustain recurrent shoulder dislocations should be educated on shoulder self-reduction with the aims of minimizing discomfort, obviating referral to the ED, and motivating participation in recreational activities.
Polar Thigh and Other Medical Observations During the Longest Solo Unsupported One-Way Polar Ski Expedition in Antarctica
Authors: Scheer Volker , Chandi Harpreet , Valero Encarna , Steinach Mathias
Published: June 2024

Antarctic expeditions are exceptional challenges for the human body, and medical issues such as nutritional deficiencies, polar anemia, cold injuries, and even death have been reported. We prospectively investigated medical issues encountered by a 33-year-old female adventurer completing the longest solo unsupported one-way polar ski expedition in Antarctica, covering 1484.53 km in 70 days and 16 h from Hercules Inlet to the Ross Ice Shelf, in temperatures estimated from −12 to −50°C and wind speeds of up to 60 mi/h. The adventurer developed a debilitating overuse musculoskeletal neck injury due to poor environmental conditions (ie, poor visibility, wind, and soft snow) while pulling a heavy sled and continuously holding the neck in a flexed position for checking directions on a mounted compass. The adventurer further developed a cold injury on the left calf (polar thigh) that gradually worsened and became ulcerated and more painful throughout the expedition. Potential risk factors included cold ambient temperatures, exposure to windy conditions, and clothing. After the expedition, this injury was treated with a skin graft. Important changes in body mass were observed (ie, reduction of body mass by 26.7% after the expedition) as well as general fatigue, muscle soreness, and sleep deterioration. This case study contributes to the body of knowledge of medical issues during Antarctic expeditions and provides the first scientific account of an adventurer with polar thigh. Further research into this condition is recommended.
Injury Prevalence Among Elite Adolescent Ballet Dancers is not Affected by Frequency of Questionnaire Administration: A 6-Month Exploratory Prospective Study
Authors: van Rijn Rogier M. , Volkova Valeriya G. , Critchley Meghan L. , Stubbe Janine H. , Kenny Sarah J.
Published: June 2024

Introduction:

The Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Questionnaire on Health Problems (OSTRC-H) is a valid and reliable registration method for self-reported injuries and is regularly used among dancer populations. Monthly questionnaire administration is acceptable in athlete populations but has not been evaluated in dancers. The aim of this exploratory study was to assess the influence of weekly versus monthly administration of the OSTRC-H on estimated injury outcomes among elite adolescent ballet dancers.

Methods:

Participants (n = 103) were prospectively followed for 6 months and completed the OSTRC-H online, evaluating perceived consequences of self-reported health problems during the previous week and the previous 4 weeks, respectively. Four definitions of dance-related injury were utilized: (1) all complaints, (2) substantial, (3) medical attention, and (4) time-loss injuries. Descriptive statistics estimated: (1) the number of injuries reported (count), (2) average injury prevalence [proportion, 95% confidence intervals (CI)], (3) average severity score (0-100), and (4) days of time loss (count) for each injury definition. The 4 outcome measures were then compared between weekly and monthly registration with paired sample t-tests ( P < .05) and overlapping 95% CI.

Results:

A significant difference between the number of all complaints injuries (weekly: 133; monthly: 94; P < .001) and substantial injuries (weekly: 64; monthly: 45; P = .012) was found. Regardless of injury definition, there were no significant differences between injury prevalence, severity scores, and days of time loss when reported weekly versus monthly.

Conclusion:

Monthly administration of the OSTRC-H is an acceptable method to estimate injury prevalence, severity scores, and days of time loss amongst elite adolescent ballet dancers.
Perfluorocarbon liquid-assisted subretinal fluid drainage via the choroid as a treatment for bullous central serous chorioretinopathy in a nanophthalmic eye
Authors: Tang Yongping , Chen Hao , Lin Wei , Wei Yong
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The report presents a modified surgical technique wherein the perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL)-assisted drainage of subretinal fluid (SRF) through the choroid was combined with partial-thickness sclerectomy (PTS) and punch sclerostomy as a treatment for bullous central serous chorioretinopathy (bCSCR) in a nanophthalmic eye.

Methods

The developed surgical approach is herein discussed together with a corresponding surgical video. Briefly, two 5 × 4 mm half-thickness sclerectomies and a punch sclerostomy (diameter: 2 mm) to the choroid were performed in the inferior quadrants. Following vitrectomy, SRF was drained through the exposed choroid in the region where the punch sclerostomy was performed, whereafter PFCL was instilled into the vitreous cavity.

Results

The complete resolution of SRF accumulation was evident at one-week post-surgery, with no evidence of recurrence over an 18-month follow-up period. No abnormal fluorescent leakage or choroidal vasodilation were evident via fundus fluorescein angiography and indocyanine green angiography examination at the patient's final follow-up visit.

Conclusion

PFCL-assisted SRF drainage through the choroid combined with PTS and punch sclerostomy may represent a viable approach to treating patients with bCSCR and nanophthalmic eyes, providing a rapid and long-lasting means of eliminating SRF accumulation.
The pediatric DAV-expert algorithm: A GAVeCeLT/GAVePed consensus for the choice of the most appropriate venous access device in children
Authors: Pittiruti Mauro , Crocoli Alessandro , Zanaboni Clelia , Annetta Maria Giuseppina , Bevilacqua Michela , Biasucci Daniele G , Celentano Davide , Cesaro Simone , Chiaretti Antonio , Disma Nicola , Mancino Aldo , Martucci Cristina , Muscheri Lidia , Pini Prato Alessio , Raffaele Alessandro , Reali Simone , Rossetti Francesca , Scoppettuolo Giancarlo , Sidro Luca , Zito Marinosci Geremia , Pepe Gilda
Published: June 2024

In pediatric patients, the choice of the venous access device currently relies upon the operator’s experience and preference and on the local availability of specific resources and technologies. Though, considering the limited options for venous access in children if compared to adults, such clinical choice has a great critical relevance and should preferably be based on the best available evidence. Though some algorithms have been published over the last 5 years, none of them seems fully satisfactory and useful in clinical practice. Thus, the GAVePed—which is the pediatric interest group of the most important Italian group on venous access, GAVeCeLT—has developed a national consensus about the choice of the venous access device in children. After a systematic review of the available evidence, the panel of the consensus (which included Italian experts with documented competence in this area) has provided structured recommendations answering 10 key questions regarding the choice of venous access both in emergency and in elective situations, both in the hospitalized and in the non-hospitalized child. Only statements reaching a complete agreement were included in the final recommendations. All recommendations were also structured as a simple visual algorithm, so as to be easily translated into clinical practice.
Association of 10 Polymorphisms in PLA2R1 and HLA DQA1 Genes with Primary Membranous Nephropathy Risk: A Meta-Analysis and a Meta-Regression
Authors: Dhaouadi Tarak , Riahi Awatef , Abdallah Taïeb Ben , Gorgi Yousr , Sfar Imen
Published: June 2024

Background:

Although, several studies have assessed the association of the phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and HLA-DQA1 SNPs with primary membranous nephropathy (PMN), results were inconsistent and between-studies heterogeneity needs to be investigated.

Objectives:

The aim of this review was to summarize existing data on the contribution of 10 SNPs in the PLA2R and HLA-DQA1 genes to PMN susceptibility and to investigate the between-studies heterogeneity by subgroup analyses and meta-regressions.

Design:

This study was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

Data sources and methods:

An electronic literature search for eligible studies among all papers published prior to January 10, 2024, was conducted through PubMed, EMBASE, Web of science and Scopus databases. Meta-analyses together with subgroup analyses and meta-regressions were performed for the 10 following SNPs: rs4664308, rs3749117, rs3749119, rs35771982, rs3828323, rs16844715, rs1511223, rs6757188, rs2715918, and rs2187668.

Results:

Combined analyses revealed a significant increase in PMN risk conferred by the following alleles: rs4664308*A, rs3749117*T, rs3749119*C, rs35771982*G, rs3828323*C, rs16844715*C, rs1511223*A, rs2715918*A, and rs2187668*A, all P-values < .001. Moreover, the PLA2R-rs4664308/HLA-DQA1-rs2187668 interaction was significantly associated with an increased PMN risk, P < .001. However, there was a substantial between-studies heterogeneity for some SNPs. Subgroup analyses by ethnicity for the 9 PLA2R SNPs did not show any cross-ethnic disparity. Inversely, the risk conferred by the HLA-DQA1 rs2187668*A allele was significantly higher in Caucasians (OR [95% CI] = 3.929 [3.251–4.748]) than in Asians (OR [95% CI] = 2.537 [1.94–3.318], P = .007. Besides, meta-regressions revealed for the majority of investigated SNPs significant correlations of the effect size with albumin, 24-hours proteinuria, serum creatinine, and eGFR levels. Hence, the influence on PMN risk conferred by the PLA2R and HLA-DQA1 SNPs was rather noted in patients with a severe disease.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis showed that 9 out of the 10 investigated SNPs in PLA2R and HLA-DQA1 genes were associated with increased PMN risk. Heterogeneity could be due to disparate patient groups in terms of disease presentation for almost all SNPs, and ethnicity for the HLA-DQA1 rs2187668 SNP.

Registration:

This review has been registered on PROSPERO: CRD42024506729. Available from: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024506729
Vulnerability Assessment and Protection Zone Delineation for Water Supply Schemes in the Upper Awash Subbasin, Ethiopia, Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Aklilu Tesfa , Sahilu Geremew , Ambelu Argaw
Published: June 2024

Water quality issues in Ethiopia necessitate the implementation of the Water Safety Plan (WSP) to safeguard drinking water. Despite its benefits, WSP implementation is underutilized, a situation exacerbated by urbanization, agriculture, pollution, and climate change. This study evaluated water supply system vulnerability and delineated protection zones in the Upper Awash River subbasin. By employing the DRASTIC model, the National WASH Inventory-2 (NWI-2), and qualitative methods, this research aims to integrate the NWI-2 with vulnerability assessments. The study revealed that, among 2864 schemes, only 14.4% had a water safety plan, while 20.7% practiced water safety, and 6% reported the occurrence of waterborne diseases. Over 39.23% of the schemes were in high vulnerability areas, 12.32% were in very high vulnerability areas, and only 8% were in low vulnerability areas. The validation revealed a 61.7% association between the vulnerability indices and nitrate concentration. The strengths of the strategy included coordination and guideline development, but challenges such as institutionalization, catchment protection, the legal framework, and climate information remain for the Water Safety Plan. To promote public health, these findings help to demonstrate and integrate the NWI-2 with vulnerability assessments to protect drinking water sources. The conclusion also calls for all concerned authorities to implement water source protection, emphasizing the use of GIS technology and the adoption of integrated watershed management practices, which encompass regulatory control and conservation strategies. Furthermore, more research on the pollutant time of travel, assimilation capacity, and land use priorities is needed to delineate specific protection zones.
High Prevalence of Antibiotic Resistance Bacteria Isolated From Bahir Dar City Municipal Solid Waste Dumpsite, North West Ethiopia
Authors: Sitotaw Baye , Ayalew Fikremariam , Girma Abayeneh , Geta Kindu , Tadesse Beselam , Birhanu Alemayehu Godana
Published: June 2024

The emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance (ABR) have been a public health challenge globally. The burden is even higher in low-income countries where there is a lack of appropriate healthcare systems, and inappropriate antibiotic disposal practices and utilization. Due to poor solid waste disposal practices in developing nations, municipal solid waste dumpsite (MSWDS) can be a reservoir for ABR bacteria. However, only a few studies demonstrated the prevalence of ABR in non-clinical environments such as MSWDS. This study assessed the prevalence of ABR bacteria at Bahir Dar City MSWDS, to understand the public health risks related to poor solid waste disposal systems. Nine soil samples were collected from the dumpsite. Bacteria were isolated, identified and tested for ABR. Seventy-one distinct colonies were isolated from all samples and identified into 10 bacterial genera based on morphological features and biochemical tests. For ABR tests, gentamicin (GN, 10 μg), streptomycin (ST, 30 μg), tetracycline (TE, 30 μg), ciprofloxacin (CIP, 5 μg), nalidixic acid (NAA, 30 μg), sulfonamide (SA, 250 μg), chloramphenicol (C, 30 μg), erythromycin (E, 15 μg), vancomycin (V, 30 μg), and amoxicillin (AMX, 25 μg) were used. The most frequently isolated bacteria were Staphylococcus (23%) followed by Escherichia species (17%). Ten isolates related to Bacillus spp. were excluded from the antibiotic sensitivity test as there is no standard regarding this genus in the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. The overall antibiotic résistance rate was 95.08%, and most isolates were found to be resistant to amoxicillin (100%), nalidixic acid (75.5%), and vancomycin (75%). Substantial proportions of the isolates were also resistant to tetracycline (55.35%), streptomycin (54.5%), and sulfonamide (50%). The overall multidrug resistance (MDR) rate was 36.06%. This high level of ABR calls for urgent intervention in waste management systems and regular surveillance programs.
Beyond Local Domains: Connective Ontology in (Post-)Cognitive Sociology
Authors: Fletcher James Rupert
Published: June 2024

Ontology in cognitive science has long been dominated by cognitivism, developing computer science metaphors to position cognition as intrinsic mind-brain information-processing. Contemporary cognitivism hypothesises localised domain-specificity, disaggregating cognition into discrete subtypes, each of which exists in a dedicated brain region. Latterly, peripheral cognitive science scholarships have contested these ideas, cultivating post-cognitivist dispositions with radical ontologies, relocating cognition in active socio-material ecologies. Nonetheless, much cognitive sociology retains cognitivist ontology, treating sociological phenomena as extrinsic constraints that influence the mind-brain’s foundational cognition. I argue that cognitive sociology could fruitfully engage with post-cognitivist science. As an example, I use connective ontology, from the sociology of personal life, to conceptualise cognition as dynamically emergent and vitally animated ecological connective energies. Doing so, I show that post-cognitivism offers routes towards genuine social ontologies of cognition as a sociological matter, moving beyond cognitivism.
Proof of cryptoasset ownership in England and Wales
Authors: Lai Jiabin
Published: June 2024

The legal status of cryptoassets as property has been widely accepted, but it remains unclear who owns a cryptoasset. This article explores the determination of the owner of a cryptoasset. It argues that under the doctrine of deemed ownership, a person in possession of a thing is deemed or presumed to be its owner unless there is evidence to the contrary. The cryptographic control of cryptoassets is equivalent or analogous to the physical possession of tangible things. Thus, a private key holder who has cryptographic control of a cryptoasset is presumed to be the owner of the cryptoasset. A person without cryptographic control can prove ownership of the cryptoasset in the hands of a different person if they can follow or trace the cryptoasset into the hands of the controller and they are entitled to claim ownership over the followed or traced cryptoasset.
The aftermath of COVID-19: Mortality impact of the pandemic on older persons in Sweden and other Nordic countries, 2020–2023
Authors: Burström Bo , Hemström Örjan , Doheny Megan , Agerholm Janne , Liljas Ann
Published: June 2024

Aims:

The COVID-19 pandemic hit Sweden harder than the other Nordic countries in the early phase, especially among older persons. We compared the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mortality especially among older persons during the period 2020–2022 in Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway, using four different outcome measures.

Methods:

We compared publicly available information on reported cases and deaths in COVID-19 from the World Health Organization COVID-19 Dashboard, age-specific mortality rates, life expectancy at age 65 years and excess mortality from Nordic Statistics database and national statistics and health agencies in Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway.

Results:

The pandemic peaked earlier in Sweden than in Denmark, Finland and Norway, where cases and deaths increased more during 2021 and 2022, also reflected in age-specific death rates among persons aged 70+ years. COVID-19 mortality was highest in Sweden, followed by Finland, Denmark and Norway. Life expectancy declined during 2020 in Sweden but more during 2021 and 2022 in Denmark, Finland and Norway. Excess mortality during 2020–2022 was nearly twice as high in Finland as in the other countries.

Conclusions:

COVID-19 mortality was higher in Sweden than in Denmark, Finland and Norway. Life expectancy declined during 2020 in Sweden, was partly regained in 2021 and 2022, while it declined during 2021 and 2022 in Denmark, Norway and Finland. However, excess mortality during 2020–2022 was similar in Sweden, Denmark and Norway and twice as high in Finland. Different mortality outcomes reflect the complexity of the mortality impact of COVID-19.
A cultural dream: Europe in the plural
Authors: Bal Mieke
Published: June 2024

This article is the English translation of the ‘inaugural lesson’ that began Professor Mieke Bal’s year as professor of the ‘European Chair’ at the Collège de France. How, asks Bal, to overcome Europe as Babel (where no one understands the other), Europe as nostalgia (regretting lost time and idealizing the past), the pessimism close to despair of Europe as apocalypse? While she refuses to offer a positive, practical answer, Bal does propose an approach to some of the major issues at stake in the ongoing invention of Europe. Here she dreams of ‘Europe in the plural’, the ongoing invention of Europe as a semiosphere that, by way of its multiple differences, encourages mutual curiosity and debate, interaction, interculturality, and sharing between cultures and languages. This is the ground, proposes Bal, for that cultural ideal of Europe in the plural. It is also the ground from which spring Bal’s lectures at the Collège de France, which are to be presented in a series of articles forthcoming in Journal of Visual Culture.
The Filipino comfort women on YouTube: Emotions, advocacy, and war memories in a transnational digital space
Authors: Candelaria John Lee , Ebro Joselito
Published: June 2024

In this article, we examine the representation and contestation of Filipino comfort women’s memories on YouTube and assess the platform’s role in public discourse and transnational activism. Our content analysis of visual and narrative elements, alongside user commentary on selected videos, reveals that YouTube acts as a crucial transnational medium, linking advocacy networks and contextualizing historical narratives. However, the videos often sensationalize the victims’ experiences, undermining the seriousness of sexual violence, which could potentially weaken advocacy efforts. Moreover, user commentary on the videos can promote counter-narratives, rumors, and hostile comments. Despite these challenges, we underscore YouTube’s significance in fostering public discourse on war memories and justice in the Philippines in light of the government’s efforts to suppress the history of Filipino comfort women. The platform encourages the sharing of corroborative postmemory, enhancing war memorialization and audience engagement, and supporting the women’s claims of abuse. Ultimately, YouTube’s role as an open forum for discussion is vital in fostering dialogues for peace and justice and countering propaganda and hate.
The Impact of Weight-bearing Exercise, Non–Weight-bearing Exercise, and Cardiovascular Stress on Biochemical Markers of Cartilage Turnover in Patients With Mild to Moderate Knee Osteoarthritis: A Sequential, Cross-Over, Clinical Study
Authors: Bjerre-Bastos Jonathan J. , Sejersen Casper , Nielsen Henning Bay , Boesen Mikael , Secher Niels H. , Distajo Gregorio , Flood Vincent , Henrotin Yves , Uebelhoer Melanie , Krustrup Peter , Kitchen Carl-Christian , Thudium Christian S. , Andersen Jeppe R. , Bihlet Asger R.
Published: June 2024

Objective

To investigate how running, cycling, and sedentary cardiovascular stress impact biomarkers of cartilage turnover acutely in subjects with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Design

This was a sequential, cross-over, clinical study. Forty subjects with primary knee OA underwent moderate-to-high-intensity cycling, running, and adrenaline infusion on separate days. Blood was sampled before, during, and at 6-time points after intervention. On a control day, similar samples were taken. Biomarkers of type II collagen degradation (C2M, T2CM, Coll2-1, Coll2-1NO2), formation (PRO-C2), and aggrecan degradation (ARGS) were measured.

Results

Mean age was 60.4 years, 40% were male, 45% had cumulated Kellgren-Lawrence (KL)-grade (Right + Left knee) of 2 to 3 and 55% had 4 to 6. Analyzing overall changes, area under the curve was significantly lower compared with resting values for ARGS and C2M after cycling and for ARGS after running. Considering individual time points, peak changes in biomarker levels showed reduction in C2M shortly following cycling (T20min = −12.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −19.3% to −5.2%). PRO-C2 increased during cycling (T10min = 14.0%, 95% CI = 4.1% to 23.8%) and running (T20min = 16.5%, 95% CI = 4.3% to 28.6%). T2CM decreased after cycling (T50min = −19.9%, 95% CI = −29.2% to −10.6%), running (T50min = −22.8%, 95% CI = −32.1% to −13.5%), and infusion of adrenaline (peak, T50min = −9.8%, 95% CI = −20.0% to 0.4%). A latent increase was seen in Coll2-1 240 minutes after running (T260min = 21.7%, 95% CI = −1.6% to 45.1%).

Conclusion

Exercise had an impact on cartilage markers, but it did not suggest any detrimental effect on cartilage. Changes following adrenaline infusion suggest a sympathomimetic influence on the serological composition of biomarkers.
An extremely rare complication during carotid artery stenting using a Wallstent: Migration of a stent holder of a Carotid Wallstent
Authors: Chihara Hideo , Maki Yoshinori , Hatano Taketo
Published: June 2024

Background

Carotid artery stenting (CAS) is an established treatment for internal carotid artery stenosis (ICS). The Carotid Wallstent is commonly used as a stent device in CAS procedures. Rare complications associated with the use of the Carotid Wallstent in CAS procedures include delayed shortening and incomplete stent expansion due to displacement of a marker ring. However, there have been no previous reports of a stent holder becoming unpredictably detached from a Carotid Wallstent during a procedure, requiring the additional deployment of another Carotid Wallstent.

Case presentation

The case of a 72-year-old man with progressive ICS is described. Since the ICS was resistant to medical treatment, CAS was planned to prevent ischemic events. During the procedure, a Mo.Ma Ultra and a carotid guardwire were used for proximal and distal protection, respectively. Following the introduction of those protective devices, a Carotid Wallstent was deployed at the stenotic lesion of the ICS. After the deployment of the Carotid Wallstent, a stent holder unpredictably detached was identified in the lumen of the Carotid Wallstent. Since it was impossible to mechanically retrieve the detached stent holder, another Carotid Wallstent was deployed to trap the substance. Postoperatively, the substance was identified as a stent holder of the first Carotid Wallstent.

Conclusion

This is the first report of an extremely rare complication concerning a Carotid Wallstent in CAS.
Continued elevation of creatinine and uric acid in a male athlete: A case report
Authors: Alaseem Ali M
Published: June 2024

Whey protein and other protein-fortified supplements are frequently consumed as nutritional supplements to aid in muscle hypertrophy and myogenesis. This case presents a 36-year-old athletic male with elevated creatinine and uric acid levels during routine laboratory evaluation. The patient had no history of kidney disease, diabetes, or hypertension. It was revealed that the patient had been regularly consuming whey protein as a dietary supplement for 2 months. Given the potential association between the elevated creatinine and uric acid levels and the use of whey protein, the patient was advised to discontinue the supplement. The patient then switched to protein-fortified milk to mitigate the possible harmful connection between the dietary intake and the laboratory findings. However, despite the dietary change, the increased levels of creatinine and uric acid persisted. This observation suggests that the elevated levels may be attributed to chronic whey protein consumption along with high-protein dietary consumption.
Radiotherapy for aseptic granulomatous dermatitis: A case report
Authors: Sabharwal Kennedy , Guenzel Rachael , Miller Robert C , Lester Scott
Published: June 2024

Granulomatous dermatitis is a common tissue reaction pattern seen in the skin or systematically in various presentations. Granulomatous dermatitis can be subclassified into infectious and non-infectious categories. This article focuses on a patient with non-infectious granulomatous dermatitis followed for many years. Past medical history included bilateral total shoulder arthroplasty complicated by prosthetic joint infections. In its early stages, the axillary rash was painful and had many fluid-filled blisters. Ultimately, the histology of the rash deemed the lesion non-infectious and mostly due to an inflammatory process. Specifically, ionizing radiation was used for this patient. The category of granulomatous processes is broad and there are many subtypes. Other treatment options for non-infectious granulomatous processes may include corticosteroids, phototherapy, and interferon-gamma injections. The differential for granulomatous processes is extensive and treatment should be decided on a case-by-case basis.
The link between human population dynamics and energy consumption during the Anthropocene
Authors: Lima Mauricio
Published: June 2024

Our present world is the consequence of the size of the human population and its domination of the biosphere through the combustion of fossil fuels. Since ~1950, there has been a sudden increase in the rate of human global energy consumption, economic productivity, and population growth. This abrupt departure of the system dynamics has been defined as the “Great Acceleration.” The accelerated population and economic expansion during the past 70 years would have been impossible without using fossil fuels. However, no studies have made an explicit connection between human population dynamics on a global scale and historical changes in energy consumption growth rates, economic growth, and the energy return on investment of fossil fuels (EROI). In this study, I apply a simple population dynamic model of cooperation/competition to decipher the effects of changes in these factors on the dynamics of the human population during the period (1800–2020).
Association of Glomerular Filtration Rate Decline With Clinical Outcomes in a Population With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Klarenbach Scott W. , Collister David , Wiebe Natasha , Bello Aminu , Thompson Stephanie , Pannu Neesh
Published: June 2024

Background:

While historical rate of decline in kidney function is informally used by clinicians to estimate risk of future adverse clinical outcomes especially kidney failure, in people with type 2 diabetes the epidemiology and independent association of historical eGFR slope on risk is not well described.

Objective:

Determine the association of eGFR slope and risk of clinically important outcomes.

Design Setting and Patients:

Observational population-based cohort with type 2 diabetes in Alberta.

Measurement and Methods:

An Alberta population-based cohort with type 2 diabetes was assembled, characterized, and observed over 1 year (2018) for clinical outcomes of ESKD, first myocardial infarction, first stroke, heart failure, and disease-specific and all-cause hospitalization and mortality. Kidney function was defined using KDIGO criteria using the most recent eGFR and albuminuria measured in the preceding 18 months; annual eGFR slope utilized measurements in the 3 years prior and was parameterized using three methods (percentiles, and linear term with and without missingness indicator). Demographics, laboratory results, medications, and comorbid conditions using validated definitions were described. In addition to descriptive analysis, odds ratios from fully adjusted logistic models regressing outcomes on eGFR slope are reported; the marginal risk of clinical outcomes was also determined.

Results:

Among 336 376 participants with type 2 diabetes, the median annual eGFR slope was −0.41 mL/min/1.73 m2 (IQR −1.67, 0.62). In fully adjusted models, eGFR slope was independently associated with many adverse clinical outcomes; among those with ≤10th percentile of slope (median −4.71 mL/min/1.73 m2) the OR of kidney failure was 2.22 (95% CI 1.75, 2.82), new stroke 1.23 (1.08, 1.40), heart failure 1.42 (1.27, 1.59), MI 0.98 (0.77, 1.23) all-cause hospitalization 1.31 (1.26, 1.36) and all-cause mortality 1.56 (1.44, 1.68). For every −1 mL/min/1.73 m2 in eGFR slope, the OR of outcomes ranged from 1.01 (0.98, 1.05 for new MI) to 1.09 (1.08, 1.10 for all-cause mortality); findings were significant for 10 of the 13 outcomes considered.

Limitations:

Causality cannot be established with this study design.

Conclusions:

These findings support consideration of the rate of eGFR decline in risk stratification and may inform clinicians and policymakers to optimize treatment and inform health care system planning.