bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Casting Without Reduction Versus Closed Reduction With or Without Fixation in the Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures in Children: Protocol for a Randomized Noninferiority Trial
Authors: Garcia-Rueda Maria Fernanda , Bohorquez-Penaranda Adriana Patricia , Gil-Laverde Jacky Fabian Armando , Aguilar-Sierra Francisco Javier , Mendoza-Pulido Camilo
Published: April 2022

Background

Acute treatment for distal radius fractures, the most frequent fractures in the pediatric population, represents a challenge to the orthopedic surgeon. Deciding on surgical restoration of the alignment or cast immobilization without reducing the fracture is a complex concern given the remodeling potential of bones in children. In addition, the lack of evidence-based safe boundaries of shortening and angulation, that will not jeopardize upper-extremity functionality in the future, further complicates this decision.

Objective

The authors aim to measure functional outcomes, assessed using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pediatric Physical Function v2.0 instrument. The authors hypothesize that outcomes will not be worse in children treated with cast immobilization in situ compared with those treated with closed reduction with or without percutaneous fixation. The authors also aim to compare the following as secondary outcomes: ulnar variance and fracture alignment in the sagittal and coronal planes, range of motion, pressure ulcers, pain control, radius osteotomy due to deformity, pseudoarthrosis cure, and remanipulation.

Methods

This is the protocol of a randomized noninferiority trial comparing upper-extremity functionality in children aged 5 to 10 years, after sustaining a distal radius fracture, treated with either cast immobilization in situ or closed reduction with or without fixation in a single orthopedic hospital. Functional follow-up is projected at 6 months, while clinical and radiographic follow-up will occur at 2 weeks, 3 months, and 9 months.

Results

Recruitment commenced in July 2021. As of January 2022, 23 children have been randomized. Authors expect an average of 5 patients to be recruited monthly; therefore, recruitment and analysis should be complete by October 2024.

Conclusions

This experimental design that addresses upper-extremity functionality after cast immobilization in situ in children who have sustained a distal fracture of the radius may yield compelling information that could aid the clinician in deciding on the most suitable orthopedic treatment.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05008029; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05008029

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/34576
The Use of Electronic Consultations in Outpatient Surgery Clinics: Synthesized Narrative Review
Authors: Payne Thomas , Kevric Jasmina , Stelmach Wanda , To Henry
Published: April 2022

Background

Electronic consultations (eConsults) are an increasingly used form of telemedicine that allows a nonspecialist clinician to seek specialist advice remotely without direct patient-specialist communication. Surgical clinics may see benefits from such forms of communication but face challenges with the need for intervention planning.

Objective

We aimed to use the Quadruple Aim Framework to integrate published knowledge of surgical outpatient eConsults with regard to efficacy, safety, limitations, and evolving use in the era of COVID-19.

Methods

We systematically searched for relevant studies across four databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science) on November 4, 2021, with the following inclusion criteria: English language, published in the past 10 years, and data on the outcomes of outpatient surgical eConsults.

Results

A total of 363 studies were screened for eligibility, of which 33 (9.1%) were included. Most of the included studies were from the United States (23/33, 70%) and Canada (7/33, 21%), with a predominant multidisciplinary focus (9/33, 27%). Most were retrospective audits (16/33, 48%), with 15% (5/33) of the studies having a prospective component.

Conclusions

The surgical eConsult studies indicated a possible benefit for population health, promising safety results, enhanced patient and clinician experience, and cost savings compared with the traditional face-to-face surgical referral pathway. Their use appeared to be more favorable in some surgical subspecialties, and the overall efficacy was similar to that of medical subspecialties. Limited data on their long-term safety and use during the COVID-19 pandemic were identified, and this should be the focus of future research.
Cognitive Function, Mental Health, and Quality of Life in Siblings of Preterm Born Children: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Silva Wnurinham , Virtanen Eeva , Kajantie Eero , Sebert Sylvain
Published: April 2022

Background

Children and adults born preterm are at increased risk of cognitive impairments, mental health disorders, and poorer quality of life. Epidemiological studies have shown that the impact of preterm birth extends to the immediate family members; however, existing research have focused on parents, and little attention has been given to siblings.

Objective

The aim of the systematic review described in this protocol is to synthesize currently available evidence on the impact of exposure to preterm birth (ie, having a sibling born preterm) on cognition, mental health, and quality of life of term born siblings (index child) of preterm born children, and to critically appraise the evidence.

Methods

This protocol outlines a systematic review designed in accordance with the PRISMA-P (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols) checklist. We will include all studies that assess outcomes in siblings of children born preterm. Quantitative and qualitative studies will be eligible for the systematic review, and only studies in English will be included. Firstly, search will be conducted electronically on PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Mednar, and opengrey.eu databases and, secondly, manually in Google Scholar and reference lists. The search strategy will include keywords and synonyms, Boolean operators, and text words (ie, within title and abstract). The team of reviewers will screen the search results, extract data from eligible studies, and critically appraise the studies. Analysis will involve both descriptive and quantitative approaches. Meta-analysis will be conducted if appropriate.

Results

This systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) on December 18, 2020, and it is currently in progress. The findings will be synthesized to determine the effect of preterm birth on full-term siblings and the quality of the available evidence.

Conclusions

The evidence derived from this study will shed light on gaps and limitations in the field of preterm birth, more specifically, the effect of preterm birth on full-term siblings. In addition, we hope that understanding the impact of preterm birth on family members will inform targeted interventions and policies for those identified at high risk and how to mitigate health risks.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42021222887; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021222887

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/34987
Innovative Technology–Based Interventions to Reduce Stigma Toward People With Mental Illness: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Rodríguez-Rivas Matías E , Cangas Adolfo J , Cariola Laura A , Varela Jorge J , Valdebenito Sara
Published: April 2022

Background

Stigma toward people with mental illness presents serious consequences for the impacted individuals, such as social exclusion and increased difficulties in the recovery process. Recently, several interventions have been developed to mitigate public stigma, based on the use of innovative technologies, such as virtual reality and video games.

Objective

This review aims to systematically review, synthesize, measure, and critically discuss experimental studies that measure the effect of technological interventions on stigmatization levels.

Methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis was based on PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines and included studies in English and Spanish published between 2016 and 2021. Searches were run in 5 different databases (ie, PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect). Only randomized controlled trials were included. Two independent reviewers determined the eligibility, extracted data, and rated methodological quality of the studies. Meta-analyses were performed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software.

Results

Based on the 1158 articles screened, 72 articles were evaluated as full text, of which 9 were included in the qualitative and quantitative syntheses. A diversity of interventions was observed, including video games, audiovisual simulation of hallucinations, virtual reality, and electronic contact with mental health services users. The meta-analysis (n=1832 participants) demonstrated that these interventions had a consistent medium effect on reducing the level of public stigma (d=–0.64; 95% CI 0.31-0.96; P<.001).

Conclusions

Innovative interventions involving the use of technologies are an effective tool in stigma reduction, therefore new challenges are proposed and discussed for the demonstration of their adaptability to different contexts and countries, thus leading to their massification.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42021261935; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021261935
A Photography-based, Social Media Walking Intervention Targeting Autonomous Motivations for Physical Activity: Semistructured Interviews With Older Women
Authors: Robertson Michael C , Swartz Maria Chang , Christopherson Ursela , Bentley Jason R , Basen-Engquist Karen M , Thompson Debbe , Volpi Elena , Lyons Elizabeth J
Published: April 2022

Background

Older adult women are at risk for negative health outcomes that engaging in sustained physical activity can help prevent. However, promoting long-term maintenance of physical activity in this population has proven to be a challenge. Increasing autonomous motivations (ie, intrinsic, integrated, and identified regulations) for physical activity may facilitate enduring behavior change. Digitally delivered games for health that take a celebratory technology approach, that is, using technology to create new ways to experience valued behaviors and express valued beliefs, may be a useful way to target autonomous motivations for physical activity. Formative research with the target population is needed to design compelling intervention content.

Objective

The objective of this study is to investigate older adult women’s reactions to and thoughts about a photography-based, social media walking game targeting autonomous motivations for physical activity.

Methods

During an individual semistructured interview, a moderator solicited feedback from 20 older adult women (age range 65-74 years) as part of formative research to develop a social media game featuring weekly walking challenges. The challenges were designed to target autonomous motivations for physical activity. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Two reviewers conducted thematic content analysis on interview transcripts.

Results

We identified 3 overarching themes in qualitative data analysis. These reflected the playful experiences, value, and acceptability associated with the intervention challenges. Generally, participants understood what the challenges were asking them to do, proffered appropriate example responses, and indicated that the challenges would be enjoyable. Participants reported that the intervention content afforded many and varied playful experiences (eg, competition, discovery, exploration, expression, fellowship, humor, nurture, sensation). Further, participants indicated that the intervention increased their motivation for physical activity, occasioned meaningful shifts in perspective, increased their knowledge of various topics of interest, provided an opportunity to create valued connection with others, and provided health-related benefits. Participants suggested the intervention emphasize local history, nature, and cultural events.

Conclusions

The photography-based, social media walking game with relatively simple game mechanics was well received and judged to be apt to bring about a wide variety of emotive experiences. A clear, geographically specific identity emerged as a key driver of interest for intervention content. Taking a celebratory technology approach holds promise for targeting autonomous motivations for physical activity in older adult women.
Characterization of False or Misleading Fluoride Content on Instagram: Infodemiology Study
Authors: Lotto Matheus , Sá Menezes Tamires , Zakir Hussain Irfhana , Tsao Shu-Feng , Ahmad Butt Zahid , P Morita Plinio , Cruvinel Thiago
Published: April 2022

Background

Online false or misleading oral health–related content has been propagated on social media to deceive people against fluoride’s economic and health benefits to prevent dental caries.

Objective

The aim of this study was to characterize the false or misleading fluoride-related content on Instagram.

Methods

A total of 3863 posts ranked by users’ total interaction and published between August 2016 and August 2021 were retrieved by CrowdTangle, of which 641 were screened to obtain 500 final posts. Subsequently, two independent investigators analyzed posts qualitatively to define their authors’ interests, profile characteristics, content type, and sentiment. Latent Dirichlet allocation analysis topic modeling was then applied to find salient terms and topics related to false or misleading content, and their similarity was calculated through an intertopic distance map. Data were evaluated by descriptive analysis, the Mann-Whitney U test, the Cramer V test, and multiple logistic regression models.

Results

Most of the posts were categorized as misinformation and political misinformation. The overperforming score was positively associated with older messages (odds ratio [OR]=3.293, P<.001) and professional/political misinformation (OR=1.944, P=.05). In this context, time from publication, negative/neutral sentiment, author’s profile linked to business/dental office/news agency, and social and political interests were related to the increment of performance of messages. Although political misinformation with negative/neutral sentiments was typically published by regular users, misinformation was linked to positive commercial posts. Overall messages focused on improving oral health habits, side effects, dentifrice containing natural ingredients, and fluoride-free products propaganda.

Conclusions

False or misleading fluoride-related content found on Instagram was predominantly produced by regular users motivated by social, psychological, and/or financial interests. However, higher engagement and spreading metrics were associated with political misinformation. Most of the posts were related to the toxicity of fluoridated water and products frequently motivated by financial interests.
The Virtual Mind Study: Virtual Reality (VR) Guided Mindfulness for Chronic Pain in Cancer Survivors: Protocol for a Single-group Feasibility Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Baydoun Mohamad , Gajtani Zen , Birnie Kathryn A. , Patton Michaela , Green Craig , Szewczyk Paulina , McLennan Andrew , Cartwright Stephen , Carlson Linda E.
Published: April 2022

UNSTRUCTURED

Introduction: Chronic cancer-related pain (CRP) has a significant negative impact on quality of life. Mindfulness is hypothesized to mitigate chronic CRP by regulating both physical and emotional resistance to pain. In recent years, there has been an interest in the use of virtual reality (VR) to deliver mindfulness meditation. Virtual reality provides an immersive and engaging environment which may enhance one’s focused attention to present moment experiences, potentially making mindfulness less effortful and more efficacious for individuals with chronic pain. There has been little research in this area for people with a history of cancer. The aim of this mixed-methods study is to evaluate the feasibility of a virtual reality guided mindfulness (VRGM) intervention offered to adult cancer survivors with chronic CRP.

Methods and analysis: This mixed-methods feasibility study will employ a single-arm, pretest–posttest design with semi-structured interviews. Fifteen cancer survivors will be enrolled in a 6-week, home-based intervention that consists of 10-15 minutes of daily VRGM practice. The primary outcome is feasibility as assessed by accrual rates, retention in the study, intervention adherence, questionnaire completion and side-effect rates. Participants will be assessed on psychosocial outcome measures (i.e., pain, sleep, depressive and anxiety symptoms, fatigue, quality of life, mindfulness) before and after the intervention, and 6 weeks post-intervention (follow-up). Factors with possible moderation or mediation effects (i.e., levels of immersion and presence in the virtual environment, trait mindfulness, amount of VRGM practice) will be assessed in relation to changes in pain. Qualitative information will provide subjective detail on participants’ experience with VRGM to complement quantitative data.

Ethics and dissemination: This study has been approved by the Health Research Ethics Board of Alberta Cancer Committee [HREBA.CC-20-0411]. Study findings will be disseminated through open access publications, traditional conference presentations, professional cancer organizations, and social media platforms.
Understanding the Public’s Attitudes Toward COVID-19 Vaccines in Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom: Qualitative Social Media Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Jones Leah Ffion , Bonfield Stefanie , Farrell Jade , Weston Dale
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 vaccines remain central to the UK government’s plan for tackling the COVID-19 pandemic. Average uptake of 3 doses in the United Kingdom stood at 66.7% as of March 2022; however, this rate varies across localities. Understanding the views of groups who have low vaccine uptake is crucial to guide efforts to improve vaccine uptake.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to understand the public’s attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccines in Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom.

METHODS

A qualitative thematic analysis of social media posts from Nottinghamshire-based profiles and data sources was conducted. A manual search strategy was used to search the Nottingham Post website and local Facebook and Twitter accounts from September 2021 to October 2021. Only comments in the public domain and in English were included in the analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 3508 comments from 1238 users on COVID-19 vaccine posts by 10 different local organizations were analyzed, and 6 overarching themes were identified: trust in the vaccines, often characterized by a lack of trust in vaccine information, information sources including the media, and the government; beliefs about safety including doubts about the speed of development and approval process, the severity of side effects, and belief that the ingredients are harmful; belief that the vaccines are not effective as people can still become infected and spread the virus and that the vaccines may increase transmission through shedding; belief that the vaccines are not necessary due to low perceived risk of death and severe outcomes and use of other protective measures such as natural immunity, ventilation, testing, face coverings, and self-isolation; individual rights and freedoms to be able to choose to be vaccinated or not without judgement or discrimination; and barriers to physical access.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings revealed a wide range of beliefs and attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination. Implications for the vaccine program in Nottinghamshire include communication strategies delivered by trusted sources to address the gaps in knowledge identified while acknowledging some negatives such as side effects alongside emphasizing the benefits. These strategies should avoid perpetuating myths and avoid using scare tactics when addressing risk perceptions. Accessibility should also be considered with a review of current vaccination site locations, opening hours, and transport links. Additional research may benefit from using qualitative interviews or focus groups to further probe on the themes identified and explore the acceptability of the recommended interventions.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF LIPSTICK USING IXORA COCCINEA FLOWER EXTRACT AS A NATURAL COLORING AGENT
Authors: PUJARI VIJAYANAND , SAWANT RESHMA , SHIVATHAYA NEHA , SURVE RASHMI , SUNAGAR NANDINI , SAWANT VIJAYA , PATIL SHUBHAM
Published: April 2022

Objective: The objective of the present research work was to formulate and evaluate lipstick using fresh flowers of Ixora coccinea extract as a coloring agent.
Methods: Fresh flowers of I. coccinea were collected, and coloring pigment was extracted by cold maceration technique using ethanol as solvent. Lipstick formulations (F1-F4) were prepared using beeswax, cocoa butter, carnauba wax, white petroleum jelly, coconut oil, and other excipients. The prepared formulations were evaluated for various evaluation parameters such as color, texture, pH, melting point, breaking point, hardness, spreadability, and aging stability.
Results: The results of different evaluation parameters of prepared lipstick formulations were within the standard range. Formulation (F3) was good enough to meet the general characteristics for ideal lipstick as all the evaluation parameters met the standard values of lipsticks.
Conclusion: The natural dye obtained from the petals of the I. coccinea flower plant was successfully used as a coloring agent in the formulation of lipstick in this study. Results of the study confirmed that this color pigment obtained from fresh flowers of I. coccinea may prove to be a useful choice in the formulation of lipstick. Natural coloring agents are safer options and are a better choice compared to their synthetic counterparts in cosmetic formulations.
Чтобы продолжать развитие, нужно усиливать продвижение своей продукции и услуг
Authors: Мангушева Р.
Published: April 2022

В прошлом году крупнейшие в России выставки электронных компонентов, модулей
и комплектующих ExpoElectronica и технологий, оборудования и материалов для производства полупроводников, электронных компонентов и систем ElectronTechExpo прошли после перерыва, связанного с пандемией новой
коронавирусной инфекции. В то время активно обсуждался вопрос, насколько офлайн-мероприятия будут востребованы после снятия ограничений и, более того, смогут ли они в принципе пережить этот период. Как мы видим сегодня, выставки
ExpoElectronica и ElectronTechExpo не только сохранились в отраслевом календаре, но продолжают развиваться. О том, как повлияла пандемия на данные мероприятия, какими будут выставки этого года, в каких направлениях планируется их дальнейшее развитие, а также о том, на что стоит обратить внимание отечественным производителям при продвижении своей продукции и услуг в текущих условиях, мы поговорили с директором выставок ExpoElectronica и ElectronTechExpo Риммой Мидхадовной Мангушевой.
АСОНИКА – РОССИЙСКАЯ САПР ЭЛЕКТРОНИКИ В ЧАСТИ ВИРТУАЛЬНЫХ ИСПЫТАНИЙ
Authors: Шалумов А.
Published: April 2022

Рассмотрена САПР электроники АСОНИКА. Перечислены задачи, для решения которых предназначена данная САПР, и представлены примеры виртуальных испытаний электроники в ней.
Generate Detailed Captions of an Image using Deep Learning
Authors: Shakeel Khan Shayaan , Shabbir Masalawala Murtaza , Ahmed Qazi Faizan , Mapari Nafisa
Published: April 2022

Abstract: This paper shows the implementation of image caption generation using deep learning algorithm. The project is one of the primary example of computer vision. The main aim of computer vision is scene undertanding. The algorithms used in this model are CNN and LSTM. This model is an extension of the model based on CNN - RNN Model which suffers from the drawback of vanishing gradient. Xception model is used for image feature extraction and is a CNN model that is trained using ImageNet dataset. Extracted features from the Xception model is fed as the input to the LSTM model which in turn generates the caption for the image. The dataset used for training and testing is Flickr_8k dataset.
Performance Analysis of Stock Price Prediction Model using LSTM and BiLSTM
Authors: Chaudhari Minal , Mayekar Hrutik , Mishra Abhishek , Bhave Diksha
Published: April 2022

Abstract: In the world of market price prediction, price prediction plays an important role in terms of providing investors with an opportunity to reduce risk while making a profit. A successful prediction model has the potential to have a significant impact on industry. For prediction, researchers use a variety of methods. We used two recurrent neural network models in our research: long short term memory and bidirectional long short term memory network model. This model can assist in determining the first accurate stock price with high accuracy. Keywords: LSTM, Bi-LSTM, RNN, Deep learning, Stock price prediction
The relationship between male testosterone hormone and some female hormones in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Authors: Kadium Dalal Abdul Hussain , Kaem Ghsoon Ghanem , Al Saeq Zaineb Mehdi , Al Safar Zaineb Assim
Published: April 2022

Objectives This study was designed to determine the levels of hormones insulin, testosterone and some female hormones in some male and female hormones in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and find the relationship between the male testosterone hormone and female hormones in patients with PCOS and to know the reasons for these changes in view of the prevalence of PCOS and its importance as a major problem affecting the health of women and her fertility.Methods The hormones included LH, FSH, PRL, estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4) and LH/FSH ratio in patients with PCOS compared with control group, and to find the relationship between male testosterone hormone and female hormones under the study in patients with PCOS. Fifty-five female patients with PCOS in reproductive age with body mass index (BMI) (25.01 ± 1.70 kg/m2), aged 15-46 years old and who recalculated fertility centre of teaching Al-Sadr hospital in Al-Najaf Al-Ashraf Governorate from 1/9/2013 to 1/10/2014, compared with 20 non-patients women with PCOS with BMI (23.87 ± 2.66 kg/m2) and age 17-47 years old as control group.Results The results showed that there was a significant increasing (p < 0.05) in insulin, testosterone, LH, PRL and LH/FSH ratio in patients with PCOS compared with control group, while there was a significant decreasing (p < 0.05) in FSH, E2 and P4 in patients with PCOS compared with non-patients women.Conclusion As the results have shown that there was a positive significant relationship between testosterone and LH, PRL and LH/FSH ratio while the relationship was negative significant between testosterone and FSH, E2 and P4 in patients with PCOS.
BREAST IMAGING
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: April 2022

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IMAGING OF THE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: April 2022

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IMAGING IN UROLOGY
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: April 2022

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INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: April 2022

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ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSTICS
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: April 2022

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DIGITAL IMAGING, TELERADIOLOGY
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: April 2022

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Integral transforms of the Hilfer-type fractional derivatives
Authors: Costa Felix , Soares Junior Cesar Alves , Jarosz Stefânia
Published: April 2022

In this paper, some important properties concerning the Hilfer-type fractional derivatives are discussed. Integral transforms for these operators are derived as particular cases of the Jafari transform. These integral transforms are used to derive a fractional version of the fundamental theorem of calculus.

Keywords: Integral transforms, Jafari transform, κ-gamma function, κ-beta function, κ-Hilfer fractional derivative, κ-Riesz fractional derivative, κ-fractional operators, (κ,ρ)-Hilfer fractional derivative.
Quão big o seu data deve ser?
Authors: Baltar Ronaldo , Baltar Claudia Siqueira
Published: April 2022

Esse conteúdo digital foi criado como parte da atividade de capacitação
”Introdução ao R e RStudio para ciência social computacional”. É uma
iniciativa de formação e difusão científica
do Observatório de Populações e
Políticas Púbicas (ObPPP) e do
Programa de Formação
Complementar de Graduação em Pesquisa Social Computacional (InfoSoc),
ambos vinculados ao Dept.º C.
Soc. / CLCH, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Paraná - Brasil
Transgenerational exposure to marine heatwaves ameliorates the lethal effect on tropical copepods regardless of predation stress
Authors: Truong Kiem , Vu Ngoc-Anh , Doan Nam , Bui Canh , Le Minh Hoang , Vu Minh , Dinh Khuong
Published: April 2022

Marine heatwaves (MHWs) emerge as a severe stressor in marine
ecosystems. Extreme warm sea surface temperatures during MHWs are often
beyond the optimal thermal range and beyond one generation of tropical
coastal zooplankton. However, it is relatively unknown whether
transgenerational MHW effect may shape the offspring fitness,
particularly in an ecologically relevant context with biotic
interactions such as predation stress. We addressed these novel research
questions by quantifying the reproductive success, grazing, and survival
of copepod Pseudodiaptomus incisus exposed to MHW and fish predator cues
(FPC) for two generations (F1 and F2). There were four F1 treatments
[(control or F1-MHW) × (no FPC or F1-FPC)] and 16 F2 treatments
[(control or F1-MHW) × (no F1-FPC or F1-FPC)] × [(control or
F2-MHW × no F2-FPC or F2-FPC)]. In both generations, P. incisus
performance was substantially lowered in MHW, but slightly higher in
FPC, particularly in control temperature. F2 reproductive success and
cumulative faecals were reduced by 20-30% in F1-MHW, but increased by
~2% in F1-FPC. Strikingly, direct MHW exposure strongly
reduced survival, but transgenerational MHW exposure ameliorated its
lethal effect and was independent of FPC. The increased survival came
with a cost of reduced reproductive success, constrained by reduced
grazing. The rapid transgenerational MHW acclimation and its associated
costs are likely widespread and crucial mechanisms underlying the
resilience of coastal tropical zooplankton to MHWs under high predation
pressure in the tropical coastal marine ecosystems.
Rapid visual detection of Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei by recombinase polymerase amplification combined with a lateral flow dipstick
Authors: Pang Jianhu , Zhao Caiyuan , Liu Zhongcheng , Lu Qiang , He Xinyi , Weng Shaoping , Jianguo *
Published: April 2022

Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) is a high-impact pathogen in
shrimp farming, causing huge economic losses to the global shrimp
farming industry every year. However, current EHP detection methods are
primarily based on the development of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
techniques that rely on sophisticated and expensive instruments.
Consequently, a rapid, practical, and sensitive protocol for the
detection of EHP is necessary. Recombinase polymerase amplification
combined with a lateral flow dipstick (LFD-RPA) assay was developed
using a pair of primers and nfo-probe targeting the conserved region of
the spore wall protein gene. Under optimized reaction conditions, the
LFD-RPA assay can detect 10 copies/μL of standard plasmid within 20 min
at 40°C. Furthermore, this assay cannot amplify DNA from other shrimp
pathogens. Thirty-nine samples of Litopenaeus vannamei were
collected in shrimp farms and detected using LFD-RPA and nested PCR.
Thirty-two positive samples were detected by LFD-RPA. Compared with
those of nested PCR (32/39), the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity
of LFD-RPA were 100% and 100%, respectively. These results indicated
the great application potential of the newly developed LFD-RPA assay for
point-of-care diagnosis, epidemic surveillance, and epidemiological
investigation of EHP.
Menopausal symptoms: prediction of quality of marital relationship among couples
Authors: Zaman Noshi , Shakoor Sundas , Yusuf Shazia
Published: April 2022

Objective. The current study determined the association between menopausal symptoms and marital quality of life, and explored the role of several demographic variables (education, occupation, and income) on these symptoms. Materials and Methods. The purposive sample included 180 married couples. Wives experiencing premenopause, perimenopause, and postmenopause 35 to 60 years old (M=45.21 & SD=7.47) were recruited from Islamabad and Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Two assessment instruments were used: Menopause Rating Scale- MRS for menopausal symptoms, and ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale- EMS for quality of marital relationship. Results. Wives’ quality of marital relationship was not significantly predicted by menopausal symptoms whereas husbands’ quality of marital relationship was significantly predicted by psychological (but not physical) symptoms of menopause. Also, several differences in menopausal symptoms and quality of marital relationship were found in relation to demographic variables. Conclusions. Clinicians should consider the relevance of psychological symptoms of menopause, and not just physical symptoms, in relationship assessment, a result that has research, practice, education and public health implications. Furthermore, possible cultural differences in the perception of menopausal effects should be addressed in greater depth.
Erratum to: Teachers’ Views on Preparation for Employment of Young Autistic People
Authors: Thavapalan Biranavan , Merlo Emanuele
Published: April 2022

Background. Contemporary literature indicates that there is significant support and assistance provided by schools for young autistic people, with a positive impact on the accessibility of jobs. Nevertheless, the employment rate of autistic people is unacceptably low in the UK. The current study investigated teachers’ views on the preparation for employment of young autistic people in the UK. Methods. Interviews were conducted with individuals from the educational field and thematic analysis was used to explore the teachers’ views regarding the factors that could have an impact on the preparation for employment of young autistic people. Results. Four main themes emerged from the analysis of this study. These themes included awareness, funding and government support, action plans and motivation. Conclusion. The results obtained appear to have critical implications for the educational field and future research, being presented in this paper.
Diagnostic dilemma in a patient presenting with thrombotic microangiopathy in the setting of pregnancy
Authors:   Department of Internal Medicine, Danbury Hospital, Danbury, CT, USA, Mohamed Jiffry Mohamed Zakee , Ahmed-khan Mohammad Aimal ,   Department of Internal Medicine, Danbury Hospital, Danbury, CT, USA, Carmona Pires Felipe ,   Department of Internal Medicine, Danbury Hospital, Danbury, CT, USA
Published: April 2022

We report a case of thrombotic microangiopathy in a postpartum female for which considerable diagnostic uncertainty existed initially regarding the etiology. This case highlights the limitations surrounding PLASMIC scoring criteria for the diagnosis of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). A 32-year-old woman presented to maternofetal medicine in her third trimester of pregnancy at 32 weeks for a routine follow up and was subsequently found to have elevated blood pressures with proteinuria, and was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia. Worsening anemia and thrombocytopenia prompted a blood smear which showed schistocytes, concerning for a thrombotic microangiopathy. Creatinine was also elevated with normal liver enzymes being noted. A PLASMIC score of 4 placed her in the low-risk category for severe ADAMTS13 deficiency whilst she fulfilled criteria for partial HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets) syndrome per Tennessee classification. Despite delivery, her symptoms persisted with subsequent ADAMTS13 assay confirming acquired TTP, subsequently requiring repeated plasmapheresis and rituximab to achieve disease control. Thrombotic microangiopathy remains a diagnostic challenge especially in the peripartum population, and scoring systems such as PLASMIC score and Tennessee classification may be of limited utility.
Successful outcome using Tocilizumab in COVID-19 pneumonia with respiratory failure on a ward level
Authors:   Department of Internal Medicine and Toxicology, ", Morărașu Bianca Codrina ,   Sf. Spiridon",   Clinical Emergency Hospital, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ",   Grigore T. Popa",   Iasi, Romania,   Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tallaght University Hospital, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland, Basirat Ahmad ,   Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tallaght University Hospital, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland, Kooblall Minesh ,   Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tallaght University Hospital, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
Published: April 2022

We describe the case of a 40-year-old man of Asian ethnicity, who presented with one week history of shortness of breath, productive cough, intermittent hemoptysis, temperature, and systemic symptoms. He had a positive nasopharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2, standard COVID panel admission blood tests, a chest X-ray and a CT Pulmonary Angiogram. Significant bilateral infiltrates and no pulmonary embolism were identified. The patient received standard COVID-19 treatment. After 36 hours, he deteriorated requiring initiation of non-invasive ventilatory (NIV) support. In the context of worsening clinical status, the patient received Tocilizumab as a single dose with good clinical response. Early Tocilizumab intervention in appropriately selected patients should improve the outcome and length of hospitalization in COVID-19 pneumonia. It can be used as an intensive therapy unit sparing agent allowing management of critically ill patients on a ward-based level. This may further contribute to prevention of intensive therapy unit related complications and increased mortality.
Advanced dye removal by multifunctional layered double hydroxide based materials: Adsorption and kinetic studies
Authors: Hadnadjev-Kostic Milica , Vulic Tatjana , Karanovic Djurdjica , Milanovic Marija
Published: April 2022

Due to favourable properties layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have been widely investigated for organic dye removal processes. In order to study the adsorption of methyl orange, bimetal (ZnAl and MgAl) and trimetal (ZnCuAl and MgCuAl) adsorbents were synthesized and thermally treated. The influence of adsorbent metal nature and content on structural (X-ray diffraction, Raman analysis), textural (low temperature nitrogen adsorption) and adsorption properties was investigated. Adsorption behaviour, mechanisms, and stability of synthesized LDHs and their calcined mixed oxides were studied with the aim to elucidate the adsorbent-dye interactions, enabling optimization of experimental design. All LDH adsorbents and LDH derived mixed oxide adsorbents had high removal efficiency rate, especially Zn-containing mixed oxides where complete decolourization (100 % of dye removal) was achieved almost instantly due to super-fast adsorbent-adsorbate interaction. Two possible adsorption mechanisms initiated by interfacial phenomena were in correlation with the structural and textural properties, as well as with the ?memory effect? reconstruction phenomenon. These results present a solid base for further investigation and design of LDH-based adsorbents for the Methyl orange removal, considering their favourable structural and textural properties and excellent adsorption capacities.
Tracking Tangible Asset Ownership and Provenance with Blockchain
Authors: Sheldon Mark D.
Published: April 2022

Blockchain transactions are recorded in a shared and append-only repository that multiple parties verify, validate, and agree upon. While initially used to keep track of digital assets, blockchains now track the ownership and provenance of tangible assets. An inherent challenge in using blockchain for this task involves keeping the status of a tangible asset in the physical world in sync with its non-fungible token on a blockchain. While several blockchains are already being used in this manner, specific implementation details are fragmented. In response, this study examines four stages of tracking tangible assets using a consortium's permissioned blockchain, including: design and governance of a blockchain, asset creation, asset transfer, and asset retirement. Based on this analysis, this study proposes a framework of risk considerations and control objectives to evaluate the extent to which a unique blockchain serves as a reliable transaction repository for tracking the ownership and provenance of tangible assets.
Weight Change During the Postintervention Follow-up of Look AHEAD
Authors: Wing Rena R. , Neiberg Rebecca H. , Bahnson Judy L. , Clark Jeanne M. , Espeland Mark A. , Hill James O. , Johnson Karen C. , Knowler William C. , Olson KayLoni , Steinburg Helmut , Pi-Sunyer Xavier , Wadden Thomas A. , Wyatt Holly , Group the Look AHEAD Research
Published: April 2022

Objective. Patients with type 2
diabetes are encouraged to lose weight, but excessive weight loss in older
adults may be a marker of poor health and subsequent mortality. We examined weight
changes during the post-intervention
period of Look AHEAD, a randomized trial comparing intensive lifestyle
intervention (ILI) and diabetes support and education (DSE; control) in
individuals with overweight/obesity and type 2 diabetes and sought to identify predictors of excessive
post-intervention weight loss and its association
with mortality.

Research Design and Methods. These secondary analyses compared post-intervention
weight change (year-8 to final visit [median 16 years]) in ILI and DSE in 3999
Look AHEAD participants. Using empirically derived trajectory categories, we
compared four subgroups: Weight Gainers (N= 307), Weight Stable (N=1561),
Steady Losers (N=1731) and Steep Losers (N=380) on post-intervention mortality,
demographic variables and health status at randomization and year-8.

Results. Post-intervention weight change averaged -3.7 ±9.5%, with
greater weight loss in DSE than ILI. The steep weight loss trajectory subgroup
lost on average 17.7 + 6.6%.; 30% of Steep Losers died during post-intervention
follow-up vs 10-18% in other trajectories (p<. 0001). The following
variables distinguished Steep Losers from Weight Stable: Baseline -
older; longer diabetes duration; higher BMI; greater multimorbidity; Intervention
– randomization to control group; less weight loss in years 1-8; Year 8 -
higher prevalence of frailty, multimorbidity and depressive symptoms; lower use
of weight control strategies.

Conclusion. Steep weight losses post-intervention were associated
with increased risk of mortality. Older individuals with longer duration
diabetes and multi-morbidity should be monitored for excessive, unintentional weight
loss.
SELF-ASSESSMENT OF STUDENTS OF THE HUMANITARIAN INSTITUTE AS A REGULATOR OF THEIR PROGRESS
Authors: Великова Светлана Анатольевна
Published: April 2022

Самооценка, являясь компонентом структуры личности, оказывает влияние на всю деятельность субъекта как на процесс, так и на ее результат, в том числе и на учебно-воспитательный процесс в высшем учебном заведении. Несмотря на различие подходов к пониманию ее определения, структуры, ученые сходятся в одном, что, выполняя различные функции, будь то регулирующая либо оценочная, контрольная, стимулирующая и др., самооценка мобилизует и раскрывает интеллектуальные, творческие возможности студента гуманитарного института как будущего специалиста, причем конкурентоспособного и инициативного на рынке труда с адекватновысокой самооценкой.На основании применения трех методик по исследованию самооценки личности И. О. Будасси «Тест на самооценку личности», Т. В. Дембо – С. Я. Рубинштейн «Диагностика самооценки», В. А. Зобкова «Мотивационно-оценочный опросник», анализа результатов деятельности осуществлено эмпирическое исследование, где сделан ряд выводов по заявленной проблеме.Анализ полученных результатов показал, что студенты разных курсов и направлений гуманитарного института имеют значимо отличную компониальную выраженность самооценки, а также взаимосвязи ее параметров с текущей успеваемостью.

Self-esteem, being a component of the personality structure, influences the entire activity of the subject, both the process and its result. The educational process in a higher educational institution is no exception. Despite the difference in approaches to understanding its definition, structure, presented in the theoretical part of the article, scientists agree on one thing. Performing various functions – evaluative, control, stimulating, blocking and protective, etc., self-esteem mobilizes and reveals the intellectual and creative potential of a person. Consequently, a person with an adequately high self-esteem will be proactive and competitive in the labor market. They develop spontaneously, due to the study of information and interaction with the reference group. However, since self-esteem influences the activity, then it will also influence the activity of students, the result of which is the current performance of students of the Humanities Institute (GumI). In the process of mastering a profession, under the influence of learning to use mental operations, features characteristic of students begin to appear. They develop spontaneously, due to the study of information and interaction with the reference group. However, since self-esteem influences the activity, then it will also influence the activity of students, the result of which is the current performance of students of the Humanities Institute (GumI).An analysis of the results obtained using several methods showed that students of different courses and directions of the humanitarian institute have significantly excellent component expression of selfesteem, as well as the relationship of its parameters with current academic performance.