bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased adverse events following third dose of BNT162b2/Pfizer vaccine in those with previous COVID-19, but not with concurrent influenza vaccine
Authors: Raw Rachael K. , Rees Jon , Chadwick David R.
Published: February 2023

Prior studies suggest that adverse events (AEs) following doses one and two of BNT162b2/Pfizer vaccine are worse in those with a prior history of COVID-19. To establish whether this outcome applies to a third/booster dose, we conducted a survey with 534 healthcare workers (HCW) in Northeast England, who reported AEs following all three doses of BNT162b2/Pfizer vaccine. We also explored AEs associated with concurrent seasonal influenza immunisation, in a subset of 492 HCWs. For all doses of BNT162b2/Pfizer vaccine there was a cluster of systemic AEs that were consistently worse in HCWs with a prior history of COVID-19. AEs were no worse in HCWs who received their third/booster dose within 7 days of the influenza jab, rather than further apart. Gender and the presence of ongoing COVID-19 symptoms (OCS) had no effect on AEs associated with COVID-19 or influenza vaccination, though younger HCWs experienced more AEs overall. Our findings have implications for vaccine hesitancy and immunisation protocols.
Possible biased virulence attenuation in the Senegal strain of Ehrlichia ruminantium by ntrX gene conversion from an inverted segmental duplication
Authors: Gordon Jonathan L. , Oliva Chavez Adela S. , Martinez Dominique , Vachiery Nathalie , Meyer Damien F.
Published: February 2023

Ehrlichia ruminantium is a tick-borne intracellular pathogen of ruminants that causes heartwater, a disease present in Sub-saharan Africa, islands in the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean, inducing significant economic losses. At present, three avirulent strains of E. ruminantium (Gardel, Welgevonden and Senegal isolates) have been produced by a process of serial passaging in mammalian cells in vitro, but unfortunately their use as vaccines do not offer a large range of protection against other strains, possibly due to the genetic diversity present within the species. So far no genetic basis for virulence attenuation has been identified in any E. ruminantium strain that could offer targets to facilitate vaccine production. Virulence attenuated Senegal strains have been produced twice independently, and require many fewer passages to attenuate than the other strains. We compared the genomes of a virulent and attenuated Senegal strain and identified a likely attenuator gene, ntrX, a global transcription regulator and member of a two-component system that is linked to environmental sensing. This gene has an inverted partial duplicate close to the parental gene that shows evidence of gene conversion in different E. ruminantium strains. The pseudogenisation of the gene in the avirulent Senegal strain occurred by gene conversion from the duplicate to the parent, transferring a 4 bp deletion which is unique to the Senegal strain partial duplicate amongst the wild isolates. We confirmed that the ntrX gene is not expressed in the avirulent Senegal strain by RT-PCR. The inverted duplicate structure combined with the 4 bp deletion in the Senegal strain can explain both the attenuation and the faster speed of attenuation in the Senegal strain relative to other strains of E. ruminantium. Our results identify nrtX as a promising target for the generation of attenuated strains of E. ruminantium by random or directed mutagenesis that could be used for vaccine production.
The relationship between radiation dose and bevacizumab-related imaging abnormality in patients with brain tumors: A voxel-wise normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) analysis
Authors: Salans Mia , Houri Jordan , Karunamuni Roshan , Hopper Austin , Delfanti Rachel , Seibert Tyler M. , Bahrami Naeim , Sharifzadeh Yasamin , McDonald Carrie , Dale Anders , Moiseenko Vitali , Farid Nikdokht , Hattangadi-Gluth Jona A.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Bevacizumab-related imaging abnormality (BRIA), appearing as areas of restricted diffusion on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and representing atypical coagulative necrosis pathologically, has been observed in patients with brain tumors receiving radiotherapy and bevacizumab. We investigated the role of cumulative radiation dose in BRIA development in a voxel-wise analysis.

Methods

Patients (n = 18) with BRIA were identified. All had high-grade gliomas or brain metastases treated with radiotherapy and bevacizumab. Areas of BRIA were segmented semi-automatically on diffusion-weighted MRI with apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) images. To avoid confounding by possible tumor, hypoperfusion was confirmed with perfusion imaging. ADC images and radiation dose maps were co-registered to a high-resolution T1-weighted MRI and registration accuracy was verified. Voxel-wise normal tissue complication probability analyses were performed using a logistic model analyzing the relationship between cumulative voxel equivalent total dose in 2 Gy fractions (EQD2) and BRIA development at each voxel. Confidence intervals for regression model predictions were estimated with bootstrapping.

Results

Among 18 patients, 39 brain tumors were treated. Patients received a median of 4.5 cycles of bevacizumab and 1–4 radiation courses prior to BRIA appearance. Most (64%) treated tumors overlapped with areas of BRIA. The median proportion of each BRIA region of interest volume overlapping with tumor was 98%. We found a dose-dependent association between cumulative voxel EQD2 and the relative probability of BRIA (β0 = -5.1, β1 = 0.03 Gy-1, γ = 1.3).

Conclusions

BRIA is likely a radiation dose-dependent phenomenon in patients with brain tumors receiving bevacizumab and radiotherapy. The combination of radiation effects and tumor microenvironmental factors in potentiating BRIA in this population should be further investigated.
Cow dung putrefaction via vermicomposting using Eisenia fetida and its influence on seed sprouting and vegetative growth of Viola wittrockiana (pansy)
Authors: Shafique Irsa , Andleeb Saiqa , Naeem Farrukh , Ali Shaukat , Tabassam Tauseef , Sultan Tariq , Almas Abbasi Mohammad
Published: February 2023

The current research was conducted at Vermi-tech Unit, Muzaffarabad in 2018 to evaluate the efficacy of cow dung and vermicompost on seed sprouting, seedlings, and vegetative developmental parameters of Viola x wittrokiana (pansy). In the current study, vermicompost was produced using Eisenia fetida. Physicochemical parameters of vermicompost and organic manure were recorded before each experimentation. The potting experiment was designed and comprised of eight germination mediums containing different combinations of soil, sand, cow dung, and various concentrations of vermicompost such as 10% VC, 15% VC, 20% VC, 25% VC, 30% VC, and 35% VC. Seed sprouting and seedling developmental parameters were observed for 28 days while vegetative plant growth parameters were recorded after 10 weeks of transplantation in various vermicompost amended germination media. Pre and post-physicochemical analysis of germination media were also recorded to check their quality and permanency. The current findings showed that 30% VC germination media was an effective dose for early seed germination initiation and all seed germination parameters. However, the significant vegetative plant growth and flowering parameters of pansy occurred at 35% VC. Findings revealed that vermicompost not only enhanced the seed germination and growth of pansy but also improved soil health. These results indicate that vermicompost can be exploited as a potent bio-fertilizer for ornamental plant production.
Imiquimod induces skin inflammation in humanized BRGSF mice with limited human immune cell activity
Authors: Christensen Pernille Kristine Fisker , Hansen Axel Kornerup , Skov Søren , Martel Britta Cathrina , Larsen Jesper , Høyer-Hansen Maria Helena , Koch Janne
Published: February 2023

Human immune system (HIS) mouse models can be valuable when cross-reactivity of drug candidates to mouse systems is missing. However, no HIS mouse models of psoriasis have been established. In this study, it was investigated if imiquimod (IMQ) induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation was driven by human immune cells in human FMS-related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (hFlt3L) boosted (BRGSF-HIS mice). BRGSF-HIS mice were boosted with hFlt3L prior to two or three topical applications of IMQ. Despite clinical skin inflammation, increased epidermal thickness and influx of human immune cells, a human derived response was not pronounced in IMQ treated mice. However, the number of murine neutrophils and murine cytokines and chemokines were increased in the skin and systemically after IMQ application. In conclusion, IMQ did induce skin inflammation in hFlt3L boosted BRGSF-HIS mice, although, a limited human immune response suggest that the main driving cellular mechanisms were of murine origin.
Direct liquid transmission of sound has little impact on fermentation performance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Benitez Rachel , Harris Alastair , Mansfield Evie , Silcock Pat , Eyres Graham , Villas-Bôas Silas G. , Jeffs Andrew , Ganley Austen R. D.
Published: February 2023

Sound is a physical stimulus that has the potential to affect various growth parameters of microorganisms. However, the effects of audible sound on microbes reported in the literature are inconsistent. Most published studies involve transmitting sound from external speakers through air toward liquid cultures of the microorganisms. However, the density differential between air and liquid culture could greatly alter the sound characteristics to which the microorganisms are exposed. In this study we apply white noise sound in a highly controlled experimental system that we previously established for transmitting sound underwater directly into liquid cultures to examine the effects of two key sound parameters, frequency and intensity, on the fermentation performance of a commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae ale yeast growing in a maltose minimal medium. We performed these experiments in an anechoic chamber to minimise extraneous sound, and find little consistent effect of either sound frequency or intensity on the growth rate, maltose consumption, or ethanol production of this yeast strain. These results, while in contrast to those reported in most published studies, are consistent with our previous study showing that direct underwater exposure to white noise sound has little impact on S. cerevisiae volatile production and sugar utilization in beer medium. Thus, our results suggest the possibility that reported microorganism responses to sound may be an artefact associated with applying sound to cultures externally via transmission through air.
Association between the proportion of laparoscopic approaches for digestive surgeries and the incidence of consequent surgical site infections, 2009–2019: A retrospective observational study based on national surveillance data in Japan
Authors: Kajihara Toshiki , Yahara Koji , Hirabayashi Aki , Hosaka Yumiko , Kitamura Norikazu , Sugai Motoyuki , Shibayama Keigo
Published: February 2023

Background

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are among the most common healthcare-associated infections. Laparoscopy is increasingly being used in various surgical procedures. However, no study has examined the association between the proportion of laparoscopic procedures and the incidence of SSIs in digestive surgery using nationwide surveillance data.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated national SSI surveillance data from the Japan Nosocomial Infections Surveillance between 2009 and 2019. The annual trend of the SSI rate and the proportion of laparoscopic procedures were assessed, focusing on five major digestive surgeries. This was based on data from 109,544 (appendix surgery), 206,459 (gallbladder surgery), 60,225 (small bowel surgery), 363,677 (colon surgery), and 134,695 (rectal surgery) procedures. The effect of a 10% increase in the proportion of laparoscopic procedures on the reduction of the SSI rate was estimated using mixed-effect logistic regression.

Findings

The average SSI rate of the five digestive surgeries decreased from 11.8% in 2009 to 8.1% in 2019. The proportion of laparoscopic procedures in each of the five digestive surgeries increased continuously (p<0.001). The SSI rate for laparoscopic procedures was always lower than that for open procedures. The results were consistent between all and core hospitals participating in the surveillance. The odds ratios of the 10% increase in the proportion of laparoscopic procedures for five digestive surgeries were always <0.950 (p<0.001).

Conclusion

An increase in the proportion of laparoscopic procedures was associated with a reduction in the SSI rate in digestive surgeries.
Reported rates of all-cause serious adverse events following immunization with BNT-162b in 5–17-year-old children in the United States
Authors: Mangat Halinder S. , Rippon Brady , Reddy Nikita T. , Syed Akheel A. , Maruthanal Joel M. , Luedtke Susanne , Puthumana Jyothy J. , Srivatsa Abhinash , Bosman Arnold , Kostkova Patty
Published: February 2023

Vaccine development against COVID-19 has mitigated severe disease. However, reports of rare but serious adverse events following immunization (sAEFI) in the young populations are fuelling parental anxiety and vaccine hesitancy. With a very early season of viral illnesses including COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, metapneumovirus and several others, children are facing a winter with significant respiratory illness burdens. Yet, COVID-19 vaccine and booster uptake remain sluggish due to the mistaken beliefs that children have low rates of severe COVID-19 illness as well as rare but severe complications from COVID-19 vaccine are common. In this study we examined composite sAEFI reported in association with COVID-19 vaccines in the United States (US) amongst 5-17-year-old children, to ascertain the composite reported risk associated with vaccination. Between December 13, 2020, and April 13, 2022, a total of 467,890,599 COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered to individuals aged 5–65 years in the US, of which 180 million people received at least 2 doses. In association with these, a total of 177,679 AEFI were reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event reporting System (VAERS) of which 31,797 (17.9%) were serious. The rates of ED visits per 100,000 recipients were 2.56 (95% CI: 2.70–3.47) amongst 5-11-year-olds, 18.25 (17.57–18.95) amongst 12-17-year-olds and 33.74 (33.36–34.13) amongst 18-65-year olds; hospitalizations were 1.07 (95% CI 0.87–1.32) per 100,000 in 5-11-year-olds, 6.83 (6.42–7.26) in 12-17-year olds and 8.15 (7.96–8.35) in 18–65 years; life-threatening events were 0.14 (95% CI: 0.08–0.25) per 100,000 in 5-11-year olds, 1.22 (1.05–1.41) in 12-17-year-olds and 2.96 (2.85–3.08) in 18–65 year olds; and death 0.03 (95% CI 0.01–0.10) per 100,000 in 5–11 year olds, 0.08 (0.05–0.14) amongst 12-17-year olds and 0.76 (0.71–0.82) in 18–65 years age group. The results of our study from national population surveillance data demonstrate rates of reported serious AEFIs amongst 5–17-year-olds which appear to be significantly lower than in 18-65-year-olds. These low risks must be taken into account in overall recommendation of COVID-19 vaccination amongst children.
Recovery and prognostic values of myocardial strain in acute anterior and non-anterior wall myocardial infarction
Authors: Wang Jiali , Kong Ying , Xi Jianning , Zhang Min , Lu Yuan , Hu Chunfeng , Xu Kai
Published: February 2023

Background

To assess the recovery and prognostic values of myocardial strain using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR)- feature tracking (FT) in acute anterior and non-anterior wall myocardial infarction.

Methods

103 reperfused patients after STEMI who underwent CMR at about 4 days (baseline) and 4 months (follow-up) were included, including 48 and 55 patients with anterior wall myocardial infarction (AWMI) and non-anterior wall myocardial infarction(NAWMI). CMR-FT analysis was performed using cine images to measure LV global radial, circumferential, and longitudinal peak strains (GRS, GCS, and GLS, respectively). Infarct size (IS) and microvascular obstruction (MVO) were estimated by late-gadolinium enhancement imaging. The primary clinical endpoint was the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) after infarction.

Results

Patients with AWMI had higher IS, higher MVO, lower ejection fraction, and more significantly impaired CMR-FT strain values than patients with NAWMI (all p<0.05). Global strain significantly improved at 4 months (all p<0.01), especial in NAWMI. GLS was an independent predictor (odds ratio = 2.08, 95% confidence interval = 1.032–4.227, p = 0.04] even after adjustment for IS and MVO. The optimal cutoff of GLS was -7.9%, with sensitivity and specificity were 73.3% and 75.0%, respectively. In receiver operating characteristic analysis, IS remained the strongest predictor (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.83, p<0.01), followed by MVO (AUC = 0.81, p<0.01) and GLS (AUC = 0.78, p<0.01).

Conclusion

CMR-FT-derived global myocardial strains significantly improved over time, especial in NAWMI. GLS measurement independently predicted the occurrence of medium-term MACE.
Machine learning estimation of crude oil viscosity as function of API, temperature, and oil composition: Model optimization and design space
Authors: Li Daihong , Zhang Xiaoyu , Kang Qian
Published: February 2023

Measurement of viscosity of crude oil is critical for reservoir simulators. Computational modeling is a useful tool for correlation of crude oil viscosity to reservoir conditions such as pressure, temperature, and fluid compositions. In this work, multiple distinct models are applied to the available dataset to predict heavy-oil viscosity as function of a variety of process parameters and oil properties. The computational techniques utilized in this work are Decision Tree (DT), MLP, and GRNN which were utilized in estimation of heavy crude oil samples collected from middle eastern oil fields. For the estimation of viscosity, the firefly algorithm (FA) was employed to optimize the hyper-parameters of the machine learning models. The RMSE error rates for the final models of DT, MLP, and GRNN are 40.52, 25.08, and 30.83, respectively. Also, the R2-scores are 0.921, 0. 978, and 0.933, respectively. Based on this and other criteria, MLP is chosen as the best model for this study in estimating the values of crude oil viscosity.
Editorial
Authors: King Andrew
Published: February 2023

This double issue of JMTE includes articles about composing with technology, music teacher self-efficacity, the use of technology in the classroom, novel musical instrument design linked to composing and critical listening skills. There is a clear focus on continuing professional development and teacher training in the articles in this issue.
The impact of the use of technology on student engagement and motivation in the music classroom
Authors: Serra-Marín Laura , Berbel-Gómez Noemy
Published: February 2023

This article explores the use of a technological tool, the Makey Makey, in the music classroom, to support student engagement and motivation. An experimental, descriptive and correlational quantitative design was designed and done over a sample of 104 students at high school level. Pre- and post- measures of engagement and motivation indicators were collected and compared to a control group to explore and compare the impact of the use of the Makey Makey over these indicators. The research findings indicate a significant difference between the experimental and control group in relation to their levels of engagement and motivation, suggesting that the use of technological tools in the music classroom can have potential benefits over these indicators. The results also show that are the affective and emotional dimensions that have more incidence over the student engagement, suggesting that educational interventions aimed at improving student engagement and motivation should focus on nurturing their emotional engagement. However, the results from this study cannot be generalized due to the study’s limitations, which make evident the need for more experimental studies and further exploration of the impact of technology in student engagement and motivation indicators.
Adapting language learning strategies to critical listening education in sound engineering
Authors: Elmosnino Stephane
Published: February 2023

This article presents educational strategies for critical listening in sound engineering. Derived from listening within the context of language learning as an arguably more mature discipline that uses similar modes of communication, it aims to provide pedagogical methods transferable to a range of teaching and learning situations. Framed within embodied cognition as theoretical perspective, the strategies’ effectiveness is qualitatively assessed using learning journals and focus group interviews of 51 audio engineering students. This evaluation cements the validity of two educational strategies mapped from language learning to sound engineering. First, a communicative approach to critical listening education joins the identification of sound causality with its embodied interpretation to create more meaningful learning experiences. Second, a metacognitive approach to attention regulation and vigilance promotes autonomy in critical listening, enabling learners to continue developing their skills beyond the classroom.
Impact of the Core System on Local Community Disaster Resilience
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Jo Yeong Seok , Lee Jae Eun
Published: February 2023

When modern societies face disasters, the goal of restoring to a pre-disaster state is minimal and disaster management is essential. However, a society that has faced and overcome disasters is a more developed society that prepares for new disasters and dreams of a safer and more sustainable social capacity. Disaster resilience, which is social resilience against new, inexperienced, and unpredictable complex and diverse disasters, lies in the organic connection of human, institutional, material, and social capital in the local community and in the disaster management system. The need for research on the core system, which is a key inspection system leading in a desirable direction, is becoming more important. Exploring how the values, institutions, leadership, followership, and capacity of the core system affect the strengthening of community disaster resilience is ultimately a disaster that focuses community capacity on disaster management, resulting in recovery, adaptation, and development. It will be a major way to evaluate the management system and judge its usefulness.
A Study on the Perceptions and Needs of Blind People for Disaster Response
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Choi Bog Cheon
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to explore in depth the perceptions and special needs of blind people regarding disaster response through their lived experiences. A qualitative study was conducted using in-depth interviews with four groups of social workers or organization practitioners, who were visually impaired and had disaster-related experiences. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis, through which the following five main themes were derived: (1) disaster perception and meaning from the perspective of blind people; (2) characteristics and difficulties that the blind face in disaster response; (3) the necessity of and considerations in developing a disaster response manual; (4) the expansion of disaster response education and training; and (5) social support needs such as accessible disaster information. The implications of this study and practical suggestions for establishing a disaster response system for the blind are discussed, and suggestions for future research are presented. This study is meaningful in providing essential information for the development of support services and policies for the blind.
Alpha-Gal Sensitization in a US Screening Population Is Not Associated With a Decreased Meat Intake or Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Authors: McGill Sarah K. , Commins Scott P. , Peery Anne F. , Galanko Joseph , Keku Temitope O. , Shaheen Nicholas J. , Anderson Chelsea , Sandler Robert S.
Published: February 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Patients with alpha-gal syndrome, a delayed reaction to mammalian meat, can present with isolated gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. We aimed to estimate the frequency of alpha-gal sensitization in a Southeastern US population and determine the association between sensitization and mammalian product dietary intake or GI symptoms.

METHODS:

We performed a cross-sectional study of participants who underwent a screening colonoscopy at our center between 2013 and 2015. We quantified serum alpha-gal immunoglobulin E antibodies in participants who were prospectively enrolled at screening colonoscopy and compared diet intake and lower GI symptoms reported in standardized questionnaires among those with elevated versus no alpha-gal IgE antibodies.

RESULTS:

Alpha-gal IgE antibodies were common—31.4% of screening colonoscopy participants (127 of 404) had elevated serum alpha-gal IgE >0.1 kU/L. Alpha-gal–sensitized participants endorsed similar rates of abdominal pain compared with those without alpha-gal antibodies (33% vs 38%, adjusted odds ratio 0.9, 95% confidence interval 0.7–1.3). Mammalian meat consumption did not differ based on alpha-gal sensitization status (average 1.43 servings/d in sensitized subjects vs 1.50 in alpha-gal IgE–negative subjects, P = 0.9). Alpha-gal–sensitized participants with levels ≥10 (n = 21) were overrepresented in the lowest quartiles of mammalian meat consumption, but not among those with GI symptoms in general. Participants with high alpha-gal antibody levels >2 kU/L (n = 45) or ≥10 U/L (n = 21) did not have a reduced mean daily mammalian meat intake compared with seronegative people.

DISCUSSION:

Elevated alpha-gal IgE antibodies were common and not associated with a reduced mammalian meat intake, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. Seropositivity did not predict symptomatic alpha-gal sensitization in this general screening population. Other host factors likely contribute to the phenotypic expression of alpha-gal syndrome.
Axial spondyloarthritis and COVID-19: course, interactions, outcomes, and the role of vaccination
Authors: Erdes Sh. F. , Belov B. S.
Published: February 2023

The review analyzes data on the course and outcomes of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) accumulated over the previous 2.5 years of the COVID-19 pandemic. The issues of clinical and immunological efficacy of vaccination against COVID-19 in this disease are considered. It was noted that the presence of axSpA, as well as treatment with tumor necrosis factor-á inhibitors and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, did not significantly increase the risk of COVID-19 infection and did not worsen its outcomes, apart from an increase in the incidence of venous thromboembolism. At the same time, it is assumed that anticytokine therapy for SpA may protect against severe COVID-19 course.The data presented suggest that the benefits of vaccination in SpA far outweigh the potential harms associated with the development of adverse events. It has been shown that in patients with SpA, vaccination does not affect the activity of the inflammatory process, and biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs have almost no significant effect on the post-vaccination response.
Features of medical and social expertise in ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Dubinina T. V. , Korotayeva T. V. , Lila A. M.
Published: February 2023

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are the two most common diseases from the group of spondyloarthritis (SpA), which are often accompanied by permanent disability. Maintaining an acceptable quality of life, preventing the development and progression of structural changes in the musculoskeletal system, maintaining/normalizing functional and social activity are the main goals of their therapy. Over the past decades, the introduction of biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs has made it possible to achieve significant success in the sustainable control of AS and PsA activity. However, the high cost of treatment significantly limits access to innovative drugs. Specifics of drug supply call for prescription of these drugs in the presence of the status of "disabled", which is assigned on the basis of the results of the medical and social examination (MSE). Execution of the necessary medical documentation for the implementation of the MSE is one of the functions of a rheumatologist.The lecture analyzes the main regulatory legal acts of the Russian Federation regulating the issues of establishing disability and discusses peculiarities of medical reports processing when referring patients with AS and PsA to the MSE.
Psoriatic Arthritis Quality of Life Questionnaire: results of translation, cultural adaptation and validation in Russian language
Authors: Fairushina I. F. , Abdulganieva D. I. , McKenna S. P. , Сoffey A.
Published: February 2023

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic progressive disease from the pondyloarthritis group of diseases. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the incidence of PsA and cases of its severe course, with significant influence on the quality of life (QoL) of patients and early disability. Psoriatic Arthritis Quality of Life Questionnaire (PsAQoL) is the first quality of life questionnaire designed specifically for PsA that has not been previously validated in Russia.Objective: to translate the original PsAQoL questionnaire into Russian and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Russian version.Material and methods. The original PsAQoL was translated into Russian using two translational panels. In all, 12 local residents were included in the translation stage of the study. The external and logical validity of the questionnaire was assessed. Further, Russian-speaking patients with an established diagnosis of PsA (n=10) tested the questionnaire. A separate cohort of patients with PsA (n=50) was enrolled in a postal test retest study on 2 occasions, 2 weeks apart. Clinical data and the Medical Outcomes Study-Short Form (SF-36) questionnaire were used to assess convergent validity.Results and discussion. The Russian version of PsAQoL was relevant, clear, and easy to complete (6.1 minutes on average). PsAQoL had high internal consistency (Cronbach's á=0.87) and excellent retest validity (r>0.85). PsAQoL scores correlated most strongly with the SF-36 General Health Scale (r=-0.68, p<0.01). PsAQoL score did not depend on sex and age (p>0.05). The PsAQoL could distinguish between groups of patients defined by self-reported general health status and self-reported severity of PsA.Conclusion. The Russian version of PsAQoL proved to be understandable and easy to complete, as well as a reliable and valid tool for assessing the quality of life of patients with PsA.
Trinidad y misión: el cuerpo del envío
Authors: Duque João Manuel
Published: February 2023

Como intento de comprender la fundamentación trinitaria de la misión, se propone una reinterpretación de la teología trinitaria misma, con base en las categorías de responsividad y de responsabilidad, comprendiendo las procesiones trinitarias como procesos de envío o de llamada hacia la responsabilidad. Utilizando la categoría de mediación, se plantea además una interpretación de la dinámica trinitaria como dinámica histórica, en el cuerpo eclesial o incluso en la historia cotidiana del ser humano. Ser llamado/a hacia la responsabilidad del otro en una respuesta situada es la encarnación de las relaciones trinitarias mismas.
Information management role in logistics operations
Authors: Adebayo Adedugba , Olaleke Ogunnaike O.  , Busola Kehinde E.  , Inegbedion Daniel
Published: February 2023

Goal: Information management frameworks, models, and software’s have the capacity to enhance the competitiveness of logistics operations by maximizing information management. The study objectively examined information management role in logistics operations in medical supply stores.
Methodology: The methodology utilized in this review includes; quantitative philosophy such as smart partial least square(PLS).An aggregate of five hundred and twenty-eight (528) questionnaires were duly completed of the six hundred and fifty-nine (659) administered to various participants.
Results: The Findings based on the statistical outcome shows that maximal product tracking, optimal information transfer, expanded echelons, prompt distribution, and delivery are the indicating roles of information management in logistics operations. It is suggested that medical supply stores utilize information management models, frameworks, and software to aid effective distribution and flow in logistics operations echelons.
Limitations: The limitations to this study is the coverage of post-utilization stage by comparing the expected outcome to the actual outcome after enhancing the information management procedures.
Originality: The study demonstrates its novelty and pertinency by introducing a framework fixated on a comprehensive methodology, as it gives a viewpoint of information management in logistics operations. Thus, information management frameworks in logistics operations are optimized and analysed from the source to the destination. Finally, the development of medical supply stores and their capacity to survive depends on the proficiency of information management.
The effect of organizational culture on employees’ performance in research institutes
Authors: Elifneh Yohannes , Embilo Takele
Published: February 2023

Goal: This paper presents a case study, which examined the effect of organizational culture (clan culture, adhocracy culture, market culture, and hierarchy culture) on employees’ performance in a developing country context taking the case of Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR).
Design / Methodology / Approach: Using survey questionnaire and convenience sampling techniques, 302 complete questionnaires were returned after being filled by respondents (employees) and considered for descriptive and inferential analysis. Based on their willingness to participate in the study, four research centers within Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) were included in the study.
Results: This study found out that all organizational culture types (clan culture, adhocracy culture, market culture, and hierarchy culture) have statistically significant results and have positive relationship with employees’ performance. And, of all, the regression analysis result showed that the clan culture is the most dominant culture type.
Limitations of the investigation: The findings of the study depended on a single case study, and this limitation could be taken as an avenue for future researchers to examine other research institutes in similar contexts.
Practical implications: The presented result sheds light regarding the effect of organizational culture on employees’ performance in agricultural research institutes; the research’s outcome provides a useful input for agricultural research institutes and policy makers in the study setting concerning the effect of organizational culture on employees’ performance.
Originality/Value: this study adds to the current body of knowledge in the area of organizational culture and its effect on employees’ performance. Besides, not much earlier studies have been done on the subject of the study in the context of agricultural institutes in the developing world.
DAVRANIŞSAL FİNANS EĞİLİMLERİ İLE KİTLE FONLAMA YATIRIM KARARLARI VE TEKRAR YATIRIM YAPMA NİYETİ ARASINDAKİ İLİŞKİNİN İNCELENMESİ: AMPİRİK BİR UYGULAMA
Authors: TİRYAKİOĞLU Muhammed Ali , KOY Ayben
Published: February 2023

Davranışsal finansın son otuz yıldaki yükselişi finans ve ekonomi çevrelerinde hissedilmiş ve eldeki belirli

uygulamalar ile araştırmacıların insan davranışlarının rasyonel veya irrasyonel yönlerinin sonuçlarını değerlendirilmiştir.

Bununla birlikte de, bireys 1el piyasa katılımcılarının psikolojik durumu ve bu durumun likit piyasalardaki

fiyatları nasıl belirlediği hakkında teoriler ortaya çıkmıştır. Finans alanının modern anlayışı, psikolojik

olduğu kadar rasyonel yaklaşımlara da dayanmayı gerektirir. Çalışmada davranışsal finans eğilimleri ile kitle

fonlama yatırım kararları ve tekrar yatırım yapma niyeti arasındaki ilişkinin incelenmesi amaçlanmaktadır. Bu

kapsamda anket yöntemi ile elde edilen veriler IBM SPSS Statistics 24.00 programı kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir.

Analiz sonuçlarına göre; Davranışsal finans eğilimleri ile kitle fonlama yatırım kararları arasında anlamlı bir

ilişki vardır. Ayrıca kitle fonlama platformların 2a üyelik süresine göre tekrar yatırım yapma niyet puanları arasında

anlamlı bir farklılık vardır.
Upregulation of SPINK2 in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Gezer Sümbül , Emrence Zeliha , Elverdi Tuğrul , Ar Muhlis Cem , Salman Yaylaz Burcu , Paçal Ferda , Ünüvar Ayşegül , Sarıman Melda , Eşkazan Ahmet Emre , Karaman Serap , Salihoğlu Ayşe , Karakaş Zeynep , Abacı Neslihan , Sırma-Ekmekci Sema
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a highly heterogeneous disease. Although patients can be classified into risk groups based on their genetic changes, the prognosis of disease within these categories varies widely. This situation raises the need to search for new molecular markers related to AML. Serine peptidase inhibitor Kazal type 2 (SPINK2) has recently been reported to be upregulated in AML and associated with poor outcomes by meta-analysis and in a limited number of AML patients.

Methods

We analyzed SPINK2 mRNA expression in 62 patients (45 adult and 17 pediatric) with AML and 11 cell lines using quantitative Real-Time PCR (qRT-PCR). SPINK2 protein level was determined using ELISA in cell lines.

Results

We found that the expression of SPINK2 mRNA and protein levels in AML cell lines (HL60 and NB4) have increased compared to other cell lines (K562, Jurkat and NALM6, MCF7, HeLa, HUVEC, hFOB, 293T, U87). SPINK2 mRNA expression was upregulated in patients with AML compared to controls (p=0.004) and significantly lower in t(8;21)-positive patients compared to negative patients (p=0.0006).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that SPINK2 serves an important role in AML development. Further studies are needed to evaluate SPINK2 expression in AML patients with t(8.21) and investigate to clarify its prognostic value in various subgroups of AML.
Periodic and quasi-periodic solutions of a four-dimensional singular differential system describing the motion of vortices
Authors: Liang Zaitao , Li Shengjun , Li Xin
Published: February 2023

In this article, we consider a four-dimensional singular differential system that can describe the dynamics of configurations bearing a small number of vortices in atomic Bose-Einstein condensates. On the basis of the topological degree theory and some analysis methods, we prove that such a system has two distinct families of periodic solutions and two distinct families of quasi-periodic solutions. Some results in the literature are generalized and improved.
Pre-analytical considerations in the development of a prototype SARS-CoV-2 antigen ARCHITECT automated immunoassay
Authors: Hemken Philip M. , Israeli Eitan , Taylor Russell , Jacobson Chris , Datwyler Maria , Geissler Rene , Hadji Abbas , Jeanblanc Nicolette , Pandya Kinnari , Marcinkus Marilee , Piktel Ryan , Bogdan M. Felicia , Rodgers Mary , Anderson Mark , Ziemann Robert , Tieman Bryan C. , Hawksworth David , Moore Jeffrey , Otis Kathy S. , Marohnic Christopher C. , Corby Josie , Tu Bailin , Lin Zhihong , Kar Alak , Hartnett James , Strobel Carolyn , Gregory Svetoslava , Rae Tracey , Muerhoff A. Scott , Brophy Susan , Hackett John R. , Daghfal David , Faron Matthew L. , Cruz Amorina , Mohr Phaedre , Sokoll Lori , Davis Gerard J.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To evaluate pre-analytical challenges related to high-volume central laboratory SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing with a prototype qualitative SARS-CoV-2 antigen immunoassay run on the automated Abbott ARCHITECT instrument.

Methods

Contrived positive and negative specimens and de-identified nasal and nasopharyngeal specimens in transport media were used to evaluate specimen and reagent on-board stability, assay analytical performance and interference, and clinical performance.

Results

TCID50/mL values were similar for specimens in various transport media. Inactivated positive clinical specimens and viral lysate (USA-WA1/2020) were positive on the prototype immunoassay. Within-laboratory imprecision was ≤0.10 SD (<1.00 S/C) with a ≤10% CV (≥1.00 S/C). Assay reagents were stable on board the instrument for 14 days. No high-dose hook effect was observed with a SARS-CoV-2 stock of Ct 13.0 (RLU>1.0 × 106). No interference was observed from mucin, whole blood, 12 drugs, and more than 20 cross-reactants. While specimen stability was limited at room temperature for specimens with or without viral inactivation, a single freeze/thaw cycle or long-term storage (>30 days) at −20 °C did not adversely impact specimen stability or assay performance. Specificity of the prototype SARS-CoV-2 antigen immunoassay was ≥98.5% and sensitivity was ≥89.5% across two ARCHITECT instruments. Assay sensitivity was inversely correlated with Ct and was similar to that reported for the Roche Elecsys® SARS-CoV-2 Ag immunoassay.

Conclusions

The prototype SARS-CoV-2 antigen ARCHITECT immunoassay is sensitive and specific for detection of SARS-CoV-2 in nasal and nasopharyngeal specimens. Endogenous proteases in mucus may degrade the target antigen, which limits specimen storage and transport times and complicates assay workflow.
Analytical validation of the modified Westergren method on the automated erythrocyte sedimentation rate analyzer CUBE 30 touch
Authors: Lapić Ivana , Rade Anamarija , Kraljević Anđela , Miloš Marija , Coen Herak Désirée , Daskijević Lucija , Cerovac Paula , Rogić Dunja
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Analytical validation of automated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) analyzers is necessary prior to their implementation into routine practice. Our aim was to perform the analytical validation of the modified Westergren method applied on the CUBE 30 touch analyzer (Diesse, Siena, Italy).

Methods

Validation included determination of within-run and between-run precision following the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute EP15-A3 protocol, comparison with the reference Westergren method, sample stability assessment at both room temperature and 4 °C, after 4, 8 and 24-h storage, and checking the extent of hemolysis and lipemia interference.

Results

Coefficients of variation (CVs) for within-run precision were 5.2% for the normal and 2.6% for the abnormal range, while between-run CVs were 9.4 and 2.2%, respectively. Comparison with the Westergren method (n=191) yielded Spearman’s correlation coefficient of 0.93, no constant nor proportional difference [y=0.4 (95% CI: −1.7–1.0) + 1.06 (95% CI: 1.00–1.14)x] and a non-significant mean absolute bias of −2.6 mm (95% CI: −5.3–0.2). Lower comparability was evidenced with increasing ESR values, with both constant and proportional differences for ESR values between 40 and 80 mm, and above 80 mm. Sample stability was not compromised up to 8-h storage both at room temperature (p=0.054) and 4 °C (p=0.421). Hemolysis did not affect ESR measurement up to 1.0 g/L of free hemoglobin (p=0.089), while lipemia index above 5.0 g/L affects the ESR result (p=0.004).

Conclusions

This study proved that CUBE 30 touch provides reliable ESR measurement and satisfactory comparability with the reference Westergren methods, with minor variation related to methodological differences.
Construction of fluorescence system of felodipine–tetracyanovinyl–2,2′-bipyridine complex
Authors: Lang Yan , Zeng Yuanjun , Zhang Chunbin , Lv Kuilin
Published: February 2023

Felodipine (FEL)–tetracyanoethylene (TCNE)–2,2′-bipyridine (Bpy) complex was prepared with FEL, TCNE–Bpy and characterized by fluorescence, ultraviolet, and infrared. By exploring the concentration and dosage of Bpy, it was found that 1 mL 2 × 10−3 mol‧L−1 of Bpy had the best effect. The sequence of reagent addition was determined to be followed by FEL, then by TCNE, and then followed by Bpy. The concentration of FEL was 2.5 × 10−4 to 9.0 × 10−3 mol‧L−1, which had a good linear relationship with fluorescence intensity. The compound had good accuracy, precision, and specificity, and could be used for the determination of phelodipine content in FEL sustained-release tablets.
Synthesis of RGO/γ-Fe2O3 nanocomposite for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous solutions
Authors: Dung Mai Duc , Hue Bui Thi , Phuong Luong Thi Kim , Giang Le Thi , Bau Le Viet , Lan Nguyen Thi
Published: February 2023

Reduced graphene oxide/maghemite (RGO/γ-Fe2O3) material was successfully synthesized by combining the modified Hummers method with co-precipitation (RGO 10 wt.%). γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles with a particle size of ∼14.8 nm were distributed on the surface of RGO sheets. Results of Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis showed that RGO/γ-Fe2O3 had a mesoporous structure and a narrow capillary size distribution curve at about 13 nm. The specific surface area of the RGO/γ-Fe2O3 was 168 m2·g−1. The RGO/γ-Fe2O3 nanocomposite was used to adsorb arsenic As(V) and a mixture of heavy metals (As(V), Cr(VI), Pb(II), and Fe(III)) in water. The maximum adsorption efficiency of As(V) reached 98.9% after 45 min with an adsorption capacity of 5.93 mg·g−1, higher than the simultaneous adsorption of the four metal ions. Competitive adsorption decreased in the order As(V), Cr(VI), Pb(II), and Fe(III). Therefore, RGO/γ-Fe2O3 could be used as an effective adsorbent to remove heavy metals from aqueous solutions.
Linear mode conversion of terahertz radiation into terahertz surface plasmon wave over a graphene-free space interface
Authors: Srivastav Rohit Kumar , Panwar Anuraj
Published: February 2023

We analyzed the linear mode conversion of incident terahertz (THz) radiation into THz surface plasmon waves (SPWs) over a surface of graphene deposited on the rippled dielectric substrate. Obliquely incident p-polarized laser light imparts oscillatory velocity to the electrons in ripple layer regime. Electron oscillatory velocity beats with ripple surface density to produce a linear current density. We examine the tunable response of mode conversion of incident terahertz radiation with respect to change in Fermi energy of graphene and incident angle. A suitable surface ripple wave number resonantly drives the THz SPW. We observe the THz SPW generation tunability with respect to Fermi energy of graphene and incident angle. The amplitude of THz SPW is increased by lowering the Fermi energy of the graphene sheet.