bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supramolecular Nanostructures Based on Perylene Diimide Bioconjugates: From Self-Assembly to Applications
Authors: Kihal Nadjib , Nazemi Ali , Bourgault Steve
Published: April 2022

Self-assembling π-conjugated systems constitute efficient building blocks for the construction of supramolecular structures with tailored functional properties. In this context, perylene diimide (PDI) has attracted attention owing to its chemical robustness, thermal and photo-stability, and outstanding optical and electronic properties. Recently, the conjugation of PDI derivatives to biological molecules, including oligonucleotides and peptides, has opened new avenues for the design of nanoassemblies with unique structures and functionalities. In the present review, we offer a comprehensive summary of supramolecular bio-assemblies based on PDI. After briefly presenting the physicochemical, structural, and optical properties of PDI derivatives, we discuss the synthesis, self-assembly, and applications of PDI bioconjugates.
Association between Mother’s Education and Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices in South Asia
Authors: Tariqujjaman Md. , Hasan Md. Mehedi , Mahfuz Mustafa , Hossain Muttaquina , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: April 2022

The association between mother’s education and the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) eight Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) core indicators has yet to be explored in South Asia (SA). This study aimed to explore the association between mother’s education and the WHO’s eight IYCF core indicators in SA. We analyzed data from the most recent nationally representative Demographic and Health Surveys of six South Asian Countries (SACs)—Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Pakistan. We found significantly higher odds (adjusted odds ratio, AOR, 1.13 to 1.47) among mothers who completed secondary or higher education than among mothers with education levels below secondary for the following seven IYCF indicators: early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF), exclusive breastfeeding under 6 months (EBF), the introduction of solid, semisolid or soft foods (ISSSF), minimum dietary diversity (MDD), minimum meal frequency (MMF), minimum acceptable diet (MAD), and consumption of iron-rich or iron-fortified foods (CIRF); the exception was for the indicator of continued breastfeeding at one year. Country-specific analyses revealed significantly higher odds in EIBF (AOR 1.14; 95% CI: 1.11, 1.18) and EBF (AOR 1.27; 95% CI: 1.19, 1.34) among mothers with secondary or higher education levels in India. In contrast, the odds were lower for EIBF in Bangladesh and for EBF in Pakistan among mothers with secondary or higher education levels. For country-specific analyses for complementary feeding indicators such as ISSSF, MDD, MMF, MAD, and CIRF, significantly higher odds (AOR, 1.15 to 2.34) were also observed among mothers with secondary or higher education levels. These findings demonstrate a strong positive association between mother’s education and IYCF indicators. Strengthening national policies to educate women at least to the secondary level in SACs might be a cost-effective intervention for improving IYCF practices.
Modelling the Impact of Reducing Ultra-Processed Foods Based on the NOVA Classification in Australian Women of Reproductive Age
Authors: Habibi Nahal , Leemaqz Shalem Yiner-Lee , Grieger Jessica Anne
Published: April 2022

Women of reproductive age have a high proportion of overweight/obesity and an overall poor nutritional intake and diet quality. Nutritional modelling is a method to forecast potential changes in nutrition composition that may offer feasible and realistic changes to dietary intake. This study uses simulation modelling to estimate feasible population improvements in dietary profile by reducing ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption in Australian women of reproductive age. The simulation used weighted data from the most recent 2011–2012 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey. A total of 2749 women aged 19–50 years was included, and 5740 foods were examined. The highest daily energy, saturated fat, and added sugar and sodium came from UPF. Reducing UPF by 50% decreased energy intake by 22%, and saturated fat, added sugar, sodium, and alcohol by 10–39%. Reducing UPF by 50% and increasing unprocessed or minimally processed foods by 25% led to a lower estimated reduction in energy and greater estimated reductions in saturated fat and sodium. Replacement of 50% UPF with 75% of unprocessed or minimally processed foods led to smaller estimated reductions in energy and nutrients. Our results provide insight as to the potential impact of population reductions in UPF, but also increasing intake of unprocessed or minimally processed foods, which may be the most feasible strategy for improved nutritional intake.
Physical Health and Work Ability among Healthcare Workers. A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Garzaro Giacomo , Clari Marco , Ciocan Catalina , Albanesi Beatrice , Guidetti Gloria , Dimonte Valerio , Sottimano Ilaria
Published: April 2022

Healthcare workers’ age is increasingly rising, negatively affecting their physical health. In particular, workability is an emerging phenomenon that predominantly affects healthcare workers. This study aims to assess physical health status and workability among ageing healthcare workers. A cross-sectional study using the Work Ability Index (WAI) was performed. Data were collected in a university hospital in northern Italy. Data were collected voluntary through a questionnaire. Healthcare workers participating in the survey were contacted personally by two resident physicians. Thus, the total number of study participants was 220 among nursing aides, nurses, and physicians. Data were analyzed by performing ANOVA and regression to assess the differences between the healthcare workers and age groups. A generalized linear model was tested to evaluate the effect of age and task on workability. The majority of healthcare workers had good WAI values. Physicians’ workability was higher than nursing aides. Nursing aides suffered more from cardiovascular disorders, while physicians and nurses had more musculoskeletal disorders. However, the distribution was statistically different (χ2 = 24.03, p = 0.00), as most of the physicians’ workability values were good and good, while those of nursing aides and nurses were good and medium. In line with previous studies, the decrease in WAI with ageing is strictly dependent on the type of task assigned. Due to heavy physical tasks, nurses and nurses’ aides showed a greater WAI than physicians. This study highlights the critical issues faced by ageing healthcare professionals. In the near future, it is necessary to find solutions to cope with these changes and devise possible interventions aimed at ameliorating workability.
Daunorubicin and Its Active Metabolite Pharmacokinetic Profiles in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia Patients: A Pharmacokinetic Ancillary Study of the BIG-1 Trial
Authors: Drevin Guillaume , Briet Marie , Bazzoli Caroline , Gyan Emmanuel , Schmidt Aline , Dombret Hervé , Orvain Corentin , Giltat Aurelien , Recher Christian , Ifrah Norbert , Guardiola Philippe , Hunault-Berger Mathilde , Abbara Chadi
Published: April 2022

Daunorubicin pharmacokinetics (PK) are characterised by an important inter-individual variability, which raises questions about the optimal dose regimen in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia. The aim of the study is to assess the joint daunorubicin/daunorubicinol PK profile and to define an optimal population PK study design. Fourteen patients were enrolled in the PK ancillary study of the BIG-1 trial and 6–8 samples were taken up to 24 h after administration of the first dose of daunorubicin (90 mg/m2/day). Daunorubicin and daunorubicinol quantifications were assessed using a validated liquid chromatography technique coupled with a fluorescence detector method. Data were analysed using a non-compartmental approach and non-linear mixed effects modelling. Optimal sampling strategy was proposed using the R function PFIM. The median daunorubicin and daunorubicinol AUC0-tlast were 577 ng/mL·hr (Range: 375–1167) and 2200 ng/mL·hr (range: 933–4683), respectively. The median metabolic ratio was 0.32 (range: 0.1–0.44). Daunorubicin PK was best described by a three-compartment parent, two-compartment metabolite model, with a double first-order transformation of daunorubicin to metabolite. Body surface area and plasma creatinine had a significant impact on the daunorubicin and daunorubicinol PK. A practical optimal population design has been derived from this model with five sampling times per subject (0.5, 0.75, 2, 9, 24 h) and this can be used for a future population PK study.
Prediction of the Damage Effect on Fiberglass-Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites for Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Stanciu Mariana Domnica , Nastac Silviu Marian , Tesula Ionut
Published: April 2022

The structure of wind turbine blades (WTBs) is characterized by complex geometry and materials that must resist various loading over a long period. Because of the components’ exposure to highly aggressive environmental conditions, the blade material suffers cracks, delamination, or even ruptures. The prediction of the damage effects on the mechanical behavior of WTBs, using finite element analysis, is very useful for design optimization, manufacturing processes, and for monitoring the health integrity of WTBs. This paper focuses on the sensitivity analysis of the effects of the delamination degree of fiberglass-reinforced polymer composites in the structure of wind turbine blades. Using finite element analysis, the composite was modeled as a laminated structure with five plies (0/45/90/45/0) and investigated regarding the stress states around the damaged areas. Thus, the normal and shear stresses corresponding to each element of delaminated areas were extracted from each ply of the composites. It was observed that the maximum values of normal and shear stresses occurred in relation to the orientation of the composite layer. Tensile stresses were developed along the WTB with maximum values in the upper and lower plies (Ply 1 and Ply 5), while the maximum tensile stresses were reached in the perpendicular direction (on the thickness of the composite), in the median area of the thickness, compared to the outer layers where compression stresses were obtained. Taking into account the delamination cases, there was a sinuous-type fluctuation of the shear stress distribution in relation to the thickness of the composite and the orientation of the layer.
Synthetic Sulfated Polymers Control Amyloid Aggregation of Ovine Prion Protein and Decrease Its Toxicity
Authors: Semenyuk Pavel , Evstafyeva Diana , Izumrudov Vladimir , Muronetz Vladimir
Published: April 2022

Amyloid aggregation, including aggregation and propagation of prion protein, is a key factor in numerous human diseases, so-called amyloidosis, with a very poor ability for treatment or prevention. The present work describes the effect of sulfated or sulfonated polymers (sodium dextran sulfate, polystyrene sulfonate, polyanethole sulfonate, and polyvinyl sulfate) on different stages of amyloidogenic conversion and aggregation of the prion protein, which is associated with prionopathies in humans and animals. All tested polymers turned out to induce amyloid conversion of the ovine prion protein. As suggested from molecular dynamics simulations, this effect probably arises from destabilization of the native prion protein structure by the polymers. Short polymers enhanced its further aggregation, whereas addition of high-molecular poly(styrene sulfonate) inhibited amyloid fibrils formation. According to the seeding experiments, the protein–polymer complexes formed after incubation with poly(styrene sulfonate) exhibited significantly lower amyloidogenic capacity compared with the control fibrils of the free prion protein. The cytotoxicity of soluble oligomers was completely inhibited by treatment with poly(styrene sulfonate). To summarize, sulfonated polymers are a promising platform for the formulation of a new class of anti-prion and anti-amyloidosis therapeutics.
Use of a Hybrid Porous Carbon Material Derived from Expired Polysaccharides Snack/Iron Salt Exhibiting Magnetic Properties, for Hexavalent Chromium Removal
Authors: Baikousi Maria , Moustaklis Konstantinos , Karakassides Angeliki , Asimakopoulos Georgios , Moschovas Dimitrios , Avgeropoulos Apostolos , Bourlinos Athanasios B. , Douvalis Alexios P. , Salmas Constantinos E. , Karakassides Michael A.
Published: April 2022

Nowadays, the scientific interest is focused more and more on the development of new strategies in recycling of waste products as well as on the development of clean technologies due to the increased environmental pollution. In this work we studied the valorization of an expired cheese-tomato flavor corn snack, which is polysaccharide food product, by producing advanced hybrid magnetic materials for environmental remediation purposes. The carbonization-chemical activation of this snack using potassium hydroxide leads to a microporous activated carbon with high surface area (SgBET ~800 m2/g). The magnetic hybrid material was synthesized via an in-situ technique using iron acetate complex as the precursor to produce iron based magnetic nanoparticles. The resulting material retains a fraction of the microporous structure with surface area SgBET ~500 m2/g. Such material consists, of homogenously dispersed magnetic isolated zero valent iron nanoparticles and of iron carbides (Fe3C), into the carbon matrix. The magnetic carbon exhibited high adsorption capacity in Cr(VI) removal applications following a pseudosecond order kinetic model. The maximum adsorption capacity was 88.382 mgCr(VI)/gAC at pH = 3. Finally, oxidation experiments, in combination with FT-IR, Mössbauer, and VSM measurements indicated that the possible Cr6+ removal mechanism involves oxidation of iron phases and reduction of Cr6+ to Cr3+.
Differences in Pre-Service Teacher Attitude Change about Family Involvement across Four Universities
Authors: Nathans Laura , Brown Amber
Published: April 2022

This study explored item-level change in pre-service teachers’ attitudes toward teacher- and parent-initiated parent involvement across four diverse universities. Pre-service teacher (N = 1658) attitudes toward parent involvement were measured before and after exposure to the online Parent Teacher Education Connection (PTEC) curriculum which provides information about Epstein’s six types of parent involvement. The four universities infused this curriculum differently into their coursework. Results showed that items demonstrated change related to how the four universities infused parent involvement curriculum into coursework. Overall, teacher-initiated involvement items showed more changes than parent-initiated items. Across the whole sample, there was change in items related to all six types of parent involvement. Results highlighted the importance of infusing parent involvement into the curriculum or teaching a full course, including activities placing pre-service teachers in the role of the parent, including service learning, and focusing on cultural diversity.
Forecasting the Volatility of European Union Allowance Futures with Climate Policy Uncertainty Using the EGARCH-MIDAS Model
Authors: Wu Xinyu , Yin Xuebao , Mei Xueting
Published: April 2022

We propose the EGARCH-MIDAS-CPU model, which incorporates the leverage effect and climate policy uncertainty (CPU) to model and forecast European Union allowance futures’ (EUAF) volatility. An empirical analysis based on the daily data of the EUAF price index and the monthly data of the CPU index using the EGARCH-MIDAS-CPU model shows that the EUAF’s volatility exhibits a leverage effect, and the CPU has a significantly negative impact on the EUAF’s volatility. Furthermore, out-of-sample analysis based on three loss functions and the Model Confidence Set (MCS) test suggests that EGARCH-MIDAS-CPU model yields more accurate out-of-sample volatility forecasting results than various competing models. There is room for further application of the model, such as this model could be applied to price carbon futures, so as to improve the liquidity of the carbon market and achieve carbon peak and carbon neutrality as soon as possible.
Meningioma in shape
Authors: Cucu A.I. , Cosman Mihaela , Dobrovat B. , Dascalu Cristina , Jitaru Ioana , Sandu R.B. , Tudor A. , Costea Claudia , Turliuc Mihaela , Dumitrescu Gabriela , Sava Anca , Poeata I.
Published: April 2022

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible relationship between the appearance of tumour margins of atypical meningiomas and the risk of tumour recurrence, as well as progression-free survival. We also evaluated the correlations between the tumour margins and the neuroimaging characteristics (e.g. brain oedema and contrast enhancement) along with pathological features (e.g. brain invasion and mean value of Ki-67 LI).

Material and methods: In our study, we included 81 patients diagnosed with atypical meningioma (grade II meningioma), who have undergone surgery at the "Prof. Dr N. Oblu" Emergency Clinical Hospital Iasi, between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2019. We followed the MRI imaging characteristics (e.g. tumour margins patterns, contrast enhancement, oedema grading and tumour volume), but also the pathological characteristics such as brain invasion and the mean value of the Ki-67 labelling index. The assessment of tumour recurrence was made using MRI imaging (T1+ contrast), over a follow-up period of 5 years after the surgery.

Results: In our study, we observed that 59.3% (n=48) of meningiomas had an irregular appearance. The irregular margins predominated in the male population (65.1%) and were statistically significantly correlated with brain oedema (p<0.001), contrast enhancement (p<0.01), anatomical location (p<0.014) and the mean value of the Ki-67 labelling index (p<0.01). The tumour margins were not correlated with brain invasion or volume of meningiomas.

Conclusion: In our series of patients we found that the irregular margin was not a prognostic factor for tumour recurrence over a period of 5 years or for progression-free survival.
Endovascular treatment options for carotid-cavernous fistulae
Authors: Codreanu Roxana , Filep Rares Cristian , Marginean Lucian
Published: April 2022

A carotid-cavernous fistula is a pathological shunt between the internal or external carotid arteries and the cavernous sinus (CS). The arteriovenous shunt can be direct, between the internal carotid artery and the CS, or indirect, between meningeal branches from the carotid arteries and the dural coverings of the CS. Direct fistulas occur most commonly after craniofacial trauma, while indirect shunts result from various chronic diseases. Signs and symptoms depend on the venous drainage routes. Exophthalmos, chemosis, and diplopia are caused by venous drainage through the superior and inferior ophthalmic veins. If venous egress is mainly through the inferior petrosal sinus, patients complain of pulsatile tinnitus. Cortical venous drainage is the most dangerous route because it can lead to focal neurological deficits and intracerebral haemorrhage. Treatment of carotid-cavernous fistulae can be achieved through different endovascular techniques, using detachable balloons, coils, liquid embolic agents, covered stents, and flow-diverters. This paper aims to report three cases with carotid-cavernous fistulae, which were successfully cured using different transarterial and transvenous modalities.
A solitary case of gliosarcoma an indication for TP53 mutation analysis: a non-concordant finding
Authors: Abdulla Ebtesam , Hameed Nabeel , Arora Roopa
Published: April 2022

Background: Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) is a hereditary, autosomal dominant malignancy predisposition induced by a mutant TP53. Here, we describe a gliosarcoma (GS) case with a clinical family history impressive for an LFS case in the absence of inherited germline TP53 mutations. 
Case description: We present a 44-year-old female with a right high parietal mass.  The mass proved pathologically to be GS with an isocitrate dehydrogenase-1 (IDH1) mutation. Pedigree analysis identified five first-degree and second-degree relatives with LFS spectrum malignancies. The patient tested positive for TP53 mutation; however, her family tested negative.
Conclusion: Of all the tumours, GSs are the least described entity with LFS. We are highlighting the need to do a genetic survey in family members of the patient who has been diagnosed to have gliosarcoma and other tumours consistent with LFS.
Burr-hole craniostomy versus mini-craniotomy in the treatment of chronic subdural hematomas
Authors: Tokpa André , Diallo Moussa , Derou Louis Kéabléon , Dongo Yves Soress , Fionko Bernard , Haïdara Adéréhime
Published: April 2022

Although cases of spontaneous recovery or under medical treatment have been reported, the treatment of chronic subdural hematoma is mainly surgical. The optimal surgical technique for the treatment of chronic subdural hematomas is still open to debate. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes between burr-hole craniostomy and craniotomy in patients with chronic subdural hematoma. Materials and methods: we have performed a retrospective study in patients operated for chronic subdural hematoma in the neurosurgery department of the teaching hospital of Bouaké between July 1, 2016, and June 30, 2020. We compared the data of patients operated by a single burr-hole craniostomy (group A) and those operated by minicraniotomy (group B). Demographic parameters, clinical signs, complications and neurological findings were analyzed. Fisher’s exact test, Chi-squared, and student’s t-test were performed. Results: group A included 46 patients and group B 55 patients. There was no significant difference between the two groups about age (59.5 years vs 59.8 years p = 0.89), sex (man: 74% vs 78.2%, P = 0.645), comorbidities, clinical signs on admission and location of the hematoma. There was also no significant difference between recurrence rates (4.3% vs 3.6% p = 0.55), postoperative complications (15.21% vs 7.27% p = 0.172) and neurological findings between the two groups. Conclusion: patient outcomes are similar in the treatment of chronic subdural hematomas by craniostomy and minicraniotomy.
Possibilities of endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery in treatment of growth-hormone pituitary adenomas
Authors: Aksyonov Ruslan V. , Palamar Orest I. , Huk Andriy P. , Teslenko Dmytro S. , Okonskyi Dmytro I.
Published: April 2022

Pituitary adenomas are one of the most common primary central nervous system tumours and have an estimated prevalence of 17%.  Management of hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas involves a multidisciplinary approach that can incorporate surgical, medical, and/or radiation therapies. Acromegaly is a rare, chronic disorder that mostly results from growth hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary adenoma. We analyzed the outcomes of surgical treatment for growth hormone (GH) pituitary adenomas based on 28 cases and determine factors that lead to biochemical remission.
Letter to the editor
Authors: Agrawal Amit , Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael , Janjua Tariq
Published: April 2022

Endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms has become one of the most important preclinical research arenas. This influential progress is due to the incredible development of new devices and catheters technologies. One of the main outcomes for intraluminal devices used for treatment is the rate of occlusion of the aneurysm.
Particular management strategy for intraprocedural coil migration during endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysm
Authors: Chiriac A. , Dobrin N. , Ion Georgiana , Faiyad Z. , Poeata I.
Published: April 2022

Migration of coils represents one of the most challenging complications of endovascular management of cerebral aneurysms with a potentially catastrophic result. In this article, we present the successful management of a coil migration during the endovascular occlusion of an anterior communicating artery aneurysm. A stent fixation technique was used with good vascular repermeabilisation. The reported frequency, risk factors and management strategies are also discussed.
Talk and Die Syndrome
Authors: Lozada-Martínez I.D. , Galeano-Buelvas A. , Pearson-Arrieta A.C. , Diaz-Castillo O.J. , Ortega-Sierra M.G. , Robledo-Arias J.S. , Serna-Trejos Juan Santiago , Mantilla-Pardo Julio César , Betancourt-Cundar D.A. , Frias-Bechara Randy Eliecer , Mendez-Martinez Harold Yesid , Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael
Published: April 2022

The "Talk and Die" Syndrome is described as the clinical deterioration following a mild to moderate traumatic brain injury. In the face of this event, individuals are able to articulate recognizable words and then deteriorate within 48 hours of the injury. This syndrome represents a major public health challenge due to its high morbidity and mortality rate; it develops from an intracranial haemorrhage causing an increase in intracranial pressure and leading the person to a neurological crisis with focal signs, coma and later death.
Possible predictive markers in surgical decision making in patients with degenerative or isthmic lumbar spondylolisthesis
Authors: Yüksel Ulaş , Ogden Mustafa , Karagedik Mustafa Ilker , Kultur Turgut , Bakar Bulent
Published: April 2022

Background: Although age, comorbidity, duration and severity of symptoms, slippage degree, and flexion-extension slipping stability during X-ray imaging are effective in making a surgical decision in patients with spondylolisthesis, these factors are rarely based on definitive evidence. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of clinical, radiological and biochemical findings in surgical decision making in these patients.
Materials and Methods: Patients’ data including age, gender, degree and type (i.e. degenerative or isthmic) of the spondylolisthesis, urinary incontinence, neurogenic claudication were recorded. Radiological imaging studies (lumbar dynamic X-ray, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging), serum glucose, C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate values of the patients obtained during hospital admissions were evaluated.
Results: Forty patients were followed conservatively and 12 patients were treated surgically. Degenerative spondylolisthesis was seen in 22 patients. Nine patients had neurogenic urinary incontinence and 19 patients had neurogenic claudication. When the patients were divided into two groups with and without surgical treatment, the presence of the pars defect, slipping distance in a neutral position and slipping distance in flexion position was significantly different between groups. A positive correlation was found between pars defect and surgical treatment. Likelihood ratio test results revealed that the presence of pars defect, neurogenic claudication and neurogenic urinary incontinence could be the best parameters in decision making the surgical treatment.
Conclusion: The presence of pars defect, neurogenic claudication and urinary incontinence could be the best parameters that may help the surgeon to make the surgical treatment decision.
Indirect revascularization in an Iraqi child with Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Hoz Samer S. , Al-Khafaji Aktham O. , Al-Sharshahi Zahraa F. , Alrawi Mohammed A.
Published: April 2022

Background: Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare cerebrovascular disease characterized by bilateral stenosis starting at the supraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA), with the development of a collateral network of vessels. It is an established cause of stroke in the pediatric age group. Despite its increasing prevalence in various parts of the world, it remains largely underrecognized in the Middle East, particularly in Iraq. This is the first case of MMD in an Iraqi patient undergoing surgery.

Case description: A 12-year-old boy presents with a 3-months history of progressive behavioural changes. MRI revealed diffuse infarcts of different ages. MRA and CT angiography revealed extensive asymmetrical steno-occlusive changes of the supraclinoid ICAs extending into the anterior and middle cerebral arteries, with the development of a collateral network in the basal ganglia. Indirect revascularization of the right side by encephaloduroarteriomyosynangiosis (EDAMS) was performed. The clinical status of the patient improved during the follow-up and the MRA showed a re-establishment of the blood flow to the MCA.

Conclusion: MMD should be recognized as a cause of stroke or recurrent TIAs in the Iraqi population, particularly in pediatric patients. EDAMS is an effective revascularization procedure with good results in pediatric patients.
Gastroparesis as a complication in the patient with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Mass-Ramirez Sandra Marcela , Lozada Marintez Ivan David , Bohorquez-Rivero José , Garcia-Ballestas Ezequiel , Bustos Diego , Poveda-Castillo Ingrith Tatiana , Delgado-Marrugo Raúl David , Daza-Martínez Víctor Julián , Sastre-Martínez Andrés David , Ortega-Sierra Michael Gregorio , Janjua Tariq , Bolaño-Romero María Paz , Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael
Published: April 2022

Patients with acute neurological diseases (traumatic brain injury, hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke, spinal cord injury or tumour) may present with various systemic alterations such as changes in cardiovascular and respiratory response, gastrointestinal function disorders, metabolic and endocrinological abnormalities, coagulopathies, among others. Head injury increases the risk of malnutrition due to multiple factors related to nutrient intake, abnormalities in energy expenditure, eating behaviour disorders, gastrointestinal changes, and medication side effects. Gastrointestinal conditions include gastroparesis, which is defined as a delay in gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction. These patients often report nausea, vomiting, pain, postprandial fullness and abdominal swelling. Although the exact mechanism by which it occurs in traumatic brain injury is not known, it is related to complications such as intracranial hypertension, so it is most often seen in cases of severe trauma. Therefore, the objective of this review is to expose basic and practical concepts about gastroparesis and its approach.
Giant, primary, hydatid cyst of the gluteal region
Authors: Iacob G. , Rosiu R. , Luchian Mihaela , Simion G.
Published: April 2022

Background: Primary hydatid disease in the muscle is extremely rare, resulting in either the spread of cysts spontaneously or after operations for hydatidosis in distant regions.

Methods: Report of an unusual case of primary hydatid cyst in the gluteus muscle, behaving as enlarging soft-tissue tumour, with a review of the literature.

Results: Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intramuscular cyst in the gluteus muscle; and no cyst existed in any other location. The cyst was excised totally, and the diagnosis of muscular cystic hydatidosis was confirmed by histopathologic examination. In follow-up of two years after the operation, there has been no recurrence in either patient.

Conclusion: The involvement of the gluteus maximus muscle without the evidence of hepatic or pulmonary disease is rare, characterized by slow development, but a major local extension must be considered in the differential diagnosis of a cystic mass with well-defined margins in the extremities of individuals from endemic regions. Physical examination, serology results and radiological findings should be interpreted with care, especially in hydatid cyst endemic countries. Surgery is still the treatment of choice, with total cyst excision.
Important controversies in lumbar spine surgery: which patients benefit from lumbar spinal fusion and who should be fused?
Authors: Urian F. , Iacob G. , Ciurea A.V.
Published: April 2022

Considering the rising tendency in the application of lumbar spine devices, a rigorous selection of candidates for lumbar spinal fusion must follow the benefit of the patient in terms of a better outcome than classical techniques or conservatory treatment. We pulled essential information from scientific sources regarding the clinical results of patients who underwent fusion surgery to sift patients who do better from fusion.

We found out that imagistic proof of instability such as spondylolisthesis associated with lumbar spinal stenosis and refractory pain takes the most from spinal fusion procedures. Oswestry disability index improvement along with restoring the function and reduction of pain remained the postoperative desires of a successful fusion. Clinical amelioration with bracing test prior to intervention was a predictor of better results after fusion. Exclusion criteria like psychiatric disorders and prior lumbar spine surgery were highlighted since studies demonstrated that they are bad predictors of outcome in spinal fusion surgery.

Laminectomy was nowhere implemented in the literature as to be urgently fused since only about 20% of patients manifest instability after this classical procedure. Iatrogenic segmental instability after laminectomy, radiologically proven should be a candidate for spinal fusion. These procedures have high costs and high rates of complications putting the patient’s functional status and quality of life at uncertainty since there is still a lot of debate in this area of spinal neurosurgery.
Ferrans and powers quality of life index for spinal cord injury
Authors: Divyalasya T.V.S , Kumar A. Kiran , Bhat N.R. Sahana , Jahnavi M. , Jena Ranjan Kumar , Lakhan Ram , Subrahmanyam B. V. , Agrawal Amit
Published: April 2022

Objective: To translate and culturally adapt the Telugu version of Quality-of-Life tool among Spinal Cord Injury patients.
Method: It’s a prospective cross-sectional study conducted at a tertiary neuro centre care hospital. The English version was translated into Telugu by two expert medical professionals and cross-checked by three experts in Telugu vocabulary. Nursing students who had good proficiency in reading and writing in English and Telugu languages were chosen for checking tool reliability. Initially English language was administered on the satisfaction domain followed by the importance domain one month apart. After two months Telugu version was administered in the same way as the English version. The reliability analysis was done.      
Results: The tool was administered to 50 nursing students. The Cronbach’s alpha for the satisfaction domain was 0.97 and the importance domain was 0.91, indicating excellent reliability.    
Conclusion: The Telugu version of the QOL tool had excellent reliability. Therefore it can be administered in the Telugu language for evaluating the quality of life of people with spinal cord injury.
Postoperative complications in endoscopic frontal transcortical surgery of lateral and third ventricle tumours
Authors: Palamar Orest I. , Huk Andriy P. , Aksyonov Ruslan V. , Teslenko Dmytro S. , Okonskyi Dmytro I. , Lazko Nazarii
Published: April 2022

Neurosurgical approaches to lesions of the lateral and the third ventricles are divided into two fundamentally different groups: transcortical neurosurgical approaches, including - endoscopic and interhemispheric transcallosal microneurosurgical approaches. Complications in surgery of lateral and third ventricle tumours are often associated with the specific approach technique and could be transient. We analyzed postoperative neurological complications and the approach criteria on MRI or CT scans in postoperative period such as localization of corticotomy, distance from corticotomy to coronal suture, “angle of attack” after the frontal transcortical approach to the lateral and third ventricle based on 54 cases and presume transient nature of specific to approach complications and approaches’ factors that have role in postoperative mutism.
Padrões de distribuição espacial da regeneração natural de Mimosa scabrella e Ocotea puberula em áreas sob restauração passiva no planalto sul do Brasil
Authors: Almeida Andrade Josiana , Zangalli Charline , Fockink Guilherme Diego , Dal Pizol Juliane , Fonseca Rech Lúcio , Kanieski Maria Raquel
Published: April 2022

A avaliação dos padrões espaciais de espécies nativas em áreas sob restauração é importante para compreensão da ecologia populacional e da influência da degradação sobre a distribuição das espécies. O objetivo do estudo foi analisar os padrões de distribuição espacial da regeneração natural de Mimosa scabrella e Ocotea puberula em áreas sob restauração passiva pós-colheita de Pinus taeda em diferentes idades. A regeneração natural foi contabilizada em 16 parcelas, nas idades de quatro e 10 anos de restauração. Foram calculadas a abundância, densidade e frequência absoluta. Os padrões de distribuição espacial das espécies foram obtidos a partir dos índices de Payandeh, Hazen e Morisita. Os resultados obtidos para cada índice foram comparados qualitativamente para verificar distinções em função dos índices testados e da idade de restauração. A densidade de regenerantes foi submetida ao teste de Kruskal-Wallis (p<0,05). Para densidade, não se obteve diferenças entre as idades de restauração, para ambas as espécies. M. scabrella apresentou distribuição espacial agregada aos quatro anos e aleatória aos 10 anos de restauração. O. puberula apresentou o padrão agregado em ambas as idades. Os índices apresentaram a mesma tendência de distribuição para as espécies, variando apenas na nomenclatura utilizada. A variação de densidade foi o principal aspecto que contribuiu para os diferentes padrões observados para as espécies. Ambas as espécies apresentam boa capacidade de regeneração em áreas pós-colheita de P. taeda, apresentando respostas distintas quanto ao status de distribuição espacial em função da idade de restauração.
Dinâmica entre espécies naturais e Ligustrum lucidum W.T. Aiton em fragmento de Floresta Atlântica aluvial
Authors: Silva Richeliel Albert Rodrigues , Pedroso Beatriz Cristina , Augustinho Mazon Joelmir , Farinha Watzlawick Luciano
Published: April 2022

A introdução de espécies arbóreas exóticas invasoras é uma ameaça aos ecossistemas naturais. Neste sentido, o presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar a dinâmica e o crescimento das espécies arbóreas nativas em razão da coexistência com L. lucidum, em fragmento urbano de Floresta Ombrófila Mista Aluvial (FOMA), no município de Guarapuava, Paraná, Brasil. Para isso, foi avaliada a dinâmica dos indivíduos arbóreos entre os anos de 2013 e 2018. Em relação à florística, nas duas avaliações foram registradas 14 famílias, 15 gêneros e 15 espécies, com 727 indivíduos em 2013 e 634 indivíduos em 2018. As taxas de ingresso e mortalidade foram de 6,74% e 19,53%. O Incremento Periódico (IP) foi de 8,90 cm, sendo as espécies que apresentaram maiores incrementos: Gymnanthes klotzschiana (4,13 cm) e L. lucidum (3,93 cm). O Incremento Periódico Anual (IPA) foi de 1,75 cm. Avaliando a probabilidade de transição diamétrica, considerando todos os indivíduos das espécies avaliadas, a taxa de probabilidade de permanência dos indivíduos na classe de menor DAP (5 cm) foi de 60%, sendo a probabilidade destes indivíduos migrarem para a próxima classe de 20%. Quanto aos indivíduos de L. lucidum, foi verificada que a transição dos indivíduos não ocorre nas classes superiores a 35 cm, onde a taxa de mortalidade é zero. A espécie L. lucidum apresenta elevada presença no ambiente, indicando o poder de adaptação da espécie exótica invasora neste fragmento de FOMA.
Litter dynamics in a seasonally dry forest fragment
Authors: Ribeiro Andressa , Bento de Oliveira Huga Géssica , Bezerra Zanella Ana Claudia , Ferraz Filho Antonio Carlos
Published: April 2022

Litter decomposition makes possible the nutrient cycling and is a link between vegetation and soil, vital for a healthy forest ecosystem. Although several studies on litter decomposition have been carried out in different regions of Brazil, there are few studies for transitional zones between Cerrado and Caatinga, particularly in the state of Piauí. Therefore, the objective of this work was to evaluate the litterfall production, litter composition and decomposition rate in a tropical dry forest fragment located in the southeast region of Piauí, Brazil. Monthly litterfall dynamics were evaluated for one year, by placing litter traps in the center of six forest inventory permanent sample plots, and the decomposition rate was determined by the litterbag technique. Litterfall production was estimated at 4,401.7 kg ha-1 year-1, similar to Caatinga environment values, with the leaves fraction contributing with the highest percentage (64%). On the other hand, litter decomposition rate was estimated at 0.003 g day-1, similar to rates found in Cerrado environments, highlighting the importance to better understand this ecozone litter dynamics. Wind speed had significative correlation with litterfall production. The number of species in the sample plot had highest correlation with the decomposition rate, and the diameter growth rate was the dendrometric variable most correlated to litterfall production.
Investigation of COVID-19 vaccine hesitation in Turkey with YouTube analysis method
Authors: ALKAN Sevil , AKKAYA Bülent , ÖNTÜRK AKYÜZ Hatice
Published: April 2022

Aim: Nowadays many people search the internet to gain health information including Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines. YouTube™ is one of the most widely used websites. However, the quality and accuracy of health-related YouTube™ videos are still controversial. In this study we aimed to research the COVID-19 vaccine hesitation in Turkey by using YouTube analyses method.

Material and Method: In this study, “COVID 19’’ OR “coronavirus’’ OR “SARSCOV 2’’ ‘and “vaccine’’ OR “vaccination’’ and “vaccine hesitancy’’ OR “vaccine hesitation’’ keywords were used to search videos on YouTube™. Firstly, non-Turkish videos and duplicate videos were excluded. Some details about videos such as duration (seconds), view count, number of comments, total likes/ dislikes were recorded. DISCERN (Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information), JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) scores, and Video Power Index (VPI) values of the videos were calculated.

Results: Most of the videos were uploaded by news agencies (48%). DISCERN scores of the videos were ranged between very poor and good. The mean JAMA score was found 2.9 that is accepted as a high score. There was a statistically significant difference in the VPI and JAMA scores among videos’ sources (p < 0,05).

Conclusion: Vaccine hesitation can be reduced by increasing the quality of the video content prepared by academic and govermental organizations. The correct use of YouTube videos in community vaccination behaviors can play an important role in the spread of COVID 19 among the community and help control the pandemic.
Dissociative symptoms in generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder and its relationship with temperament-character features
Authors: SEVİNDİK Muhammet , NAZLI Şerif Bora , KOÇAK Orhan Murat
Published: April 2022

Introduction: The relationship between anxiety and dissociative symptoms is frequently mentioned, but dissociative symptoms are not seen in all patients with anxiety disorder. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between dissociative symptoms and temperament-character features in patients with anxiety disorders.

Methods: The study sample consisted of 75 patients diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder (PD) according to DSM-5 and 75 healthy individuals for the control group (HC). The severity of their complaints were assessed using Hamilton Anxiety and Depression Rating Scales (HAM-A, HAM-D). Sociodemographic data form, Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), Dissociation Scale (DIS-Q) and Temperament-Character Inventory (TCI) were filled for every participant.

Results: There was a significant difference between the groups in terms of HAM-A, HAM-D, DES and DIS-Q scores (PD> GAD> HC). The factors affecting DES and DIS-Q scores were high HAM-A scores, diagnosis, low self-directedness(SD) and high self-transcendence(ST) scores, and when the diagnosis was checked, DES and DIS-Q scores continued to be affected by HAM-A, SD and ST scores.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of dissociative symptoms was confirmed in patients with anxiety disorder. It was observed that character traits of low SD and high ST may be predisposing for the development of dissociative symptoms, while temperament traits were not influential on dissociative symptoms. These results may suggest that dissociation is not only related to trauma.
Biopolitics and Im/Possible Citizenship: Gender, Epidemiology and ‘Panoptic Citizenship’ in India
Authors: Roy Ahonaa
Published: April 2022

This essay proposes to advance the discussion on the political implications of gender and its transgressive imperative, highlighting, further, the discursive and unsettled gendered positions. Proposing references with the entanglement of the epidemiological knowledge around gender(ed) politics in India, this work emphasizes the niche around claiming citizenship that is strengthened around health system paradigm. The globalisation of the identarian categories as a form of political identity as tied to the orthodoxy around the neoliberal norms of accountability. This essay thus foregrounds a subversive imagery in building theorisation around biopolitics and bio-citizenry, with a critique to the neocolonial allegory of the State, global health and International activism. Also, by bringing in the critical perspective on ‘sexuality’ and ‘equality’, this text debates the thematics of citizenship, that resides on a non-sovereign position -that is to say, the corporeal politics within biopolitical articulation. Also, the essay critically examines the biopolitics of citizenship with an analytical lens that is viable, de-medicalised as allowing the possibility to de-embrace technocratic and depoliticised sense of belonging.
Utopias for the impoverished: The Islamicate in the creation of utopias
Authors: Yousuf Iram
Published: April 2022

This paper considers impoverishment and its link to the notion of utopia. It proposes that a utopia can only exist in relation to a dystopia, and it considers how ‘poverty’ is the dystopic outcome in a capitalist quest for the utopia. It then proposes the waqf as a means of addressing impoverishment.
The Writer’s Café: Foregrounding ubuntu, decolonisation and deconstruction
Authors: Matebeni Zintombizethu , Obuaku-Igwe Chinwe
Published: April 2022

This paper offers a critical reflection on the experiences of facilitating postgraduate and undergraduate seminars in the field of sociology through a decolonial forum we term the Writer’s Café. The paper represents our attempt at grappling with issues of power by negotiating, distinguishing and finding our collective and acceptable regimes of truth through this forum. The frameworks of ubuntu and decolonisation became integral in the conceptualisation of the Writer’s Café, as well as its implementation. As researchers in the fields of sociology of health and sexualities and gender studies, the Writer’s Café offers opportunities to unpack the social and cultural bases of the subjects of both fields of study. Key to this analysis of the Writer’s Café is the emphasis on agency, inequality, change, and understanding connections between epistemologies. As an African philosophy and practice, ubuntu offers the student in sociology an integrated experience of two fields of study that are deeply embedded in the experience of everyday life while addressing African realities. We use critical reflection as a method of inquiry by situating ourselves as research participants, using examples from the Writer’s Café, as well as a selective review of literature on critical pedagogy and ubuntu to draw out the interconnectedness of both fields and their implications for decolonisation and a responsive pedagogy.