bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between vitamin D and cancer: A narrative review
Authors: Alves Luciana L. , Torres-Nunes Luiza , De Lucena-Machado Marcella , De Azevedo Yanca Maiara A. , De Sá-Caputo Danúbia Da C. , Bernardo-Filho Mario
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Vitamin D is involved in several human metabolismpathways, both in classic pathway, which involvesthe calcium and phosphorus metabolism, and in non-classicpathways, which are related to several types of diseases, includingdiseases related to muscles; kidneys; cardiovascular system;immune system; some types of cancer; diabetes; and pregnancy.Objectives: As cancer is one of the main health problems inthe world and knowing that it is one of the non-classic effectsrelated to vitamin D, the current narrative review aimed toverify the relevance of vitamin D has on the types of cancer.Methods: The bibliographic research was performed in databasesPubmed, Scopus and PEDro on June 16, 2020, using thekeywords “vitamin D”, “cancer” and “non-classic”. Only articlessince the year 2000 were included. Thirty-one articles wereanalyzed relating vitamin D to colon/rectum cancer, breastcancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, melanomaand other types of skin cancer, and gastric cancer. Results: Allstudies have shown a relationship between vitamin D and theincidence of cancer in the human body, however, there arepeculiarities regarding the concentration levels in each organ.Even with conflicting results, in general, vitamin D has shownto be promise in the prevention of several types of cancer.
O shopping popular e a nova configuração urbana do Centro de Abastecimento da cidade de Feira de Santana/BA
Authors: Azevedo Guimarães Dias Ângelo
Published: February 2022

No processo de produção do espaço, o homem produz sua ação para o alcance de um propósito pré-estabelecido, sendo assim “através do trabalho, o homem exerce ação sobre a natureza, isto é, sobre o meio, ele muda a si mesmo, sua natureza íntima, ao mesmo tempo em que modifica a natureza externa” (SANTOS, p.53, 2006), logo o espaço geográfico produzido pelo ser humano está em constante dinâmica para atender as necessidades da vida em sociedade e em especifico também do capital.
CONSTRUÇÃO DE APLICAÇÕES WEB PARA VISUALIZAÇÃO DE EXPERIMENTO DE CONTAGEM DE PARTÍCULAS
Authors: Da Silva Lima Matos Melissa Evelyn
Published: February 2022

Na sociedade atual, vive-se uma era de tecnologia, de facilidade de acesso às informações e comunicação.
COMPARAÇÃO ENTRE ESTRATÉGIAS LINGUÍSTICAS DE CRIANÇAS DE 6 A 8 ANOS COM AS DE CRIANÇAS DE 9 A 11 ANOS EM TAREFAS DE CONSCIÊNCIA FONOLÓGICA
Authors: Knoth Silva João Vitor
Published: February 2022

Este trabalho objetiva comparar estratégias linguísticas utilizadas por sujeitos de dois grupos etários, G1 (6 a 8 anos) e G2 (9 a 11 anos), quando os mesmos realizam tarefas de consciência fonológica, doravante CF, nos níveis da sílaba e do fonema.
Partner’s violence during the COVID-19 lockdown and women’s fear: a study involving anti-violence centres in Italy
Authors: Romito Patrizia , Marchand-Martin Laetitia , Pellegrini Martina , Saurel-Cubizolles Marie-Josèphe
Published: February 2022

This study explores how women’s fear is related to violence by a partner during the COVID-19 lockdown in Italy. Data come from a sample of 238 women, attending five anti-violence centres in June–September 2020, 44 per cent were cohabiting and 56 per cent not cohabiting with the perpetrator. A questionnaire administered by the advocates allowed us to collect information about several types of violence and their evolution during the lockdown, the feeling of fear, the impossibility of going out alone and help-seeking strategies.

Most of these women lived with the fear of their aggressor, more often if they cohabited with him, 76 per cent instead of 57 per cent if not. Despite this high prevalence, the main determinants of not going out alone or help-seeking were the intensity of violence and its increase during the lockdown more than the women’s fear, even if the cohabitation status is considered.

Fear strongly impairs the quality of daily life. In the context of this pandemic, it was an addition to the various damages exerted by the violence, coupled for some women with difficult social conditions. Professionals working with these women should consider fear but keep in mind that the factor to suppress is the violence.
Are phase change materials ideal for programmable photonics?: opinion
Authors: Simpson Robert E. , Yang Joel K. W. , Hu Juejun
Published: February 2022

The objective of this Opinion is to stimulate new research into materials that can meet the needs of tomorrow’s programmable photonics components. Herein, we argue that the inherent property portfolios of the common telluride phase change materials, which have been successfully applied in data storage technologies, are unsuitable for most emerging programmable photonics applications. We believe that newer PCMs with wider bandgaps, such as Sb2S3, Sb2Se3, and Ge2Sb2Se4Te (GSST), can be optimized to meet the demands of holographic displays, optical neural network memories, and beam steering devices.
sFlt-1/PlGF ratio for prediction of preeclampsia in clinical routine: A pragmatic real-world analysis of healthcare resource utilisation
Authors: Dathan-Stumpf Anne , Rieger Anna , Verlohren Stefan , Wolf Cyrill , Stepan Holger
Published: February 2022

Background

We investigated the impact of the soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1)/placental growth factor (PlGF) ratio to predict short-term risk of preeclampsia on clinical utility and healthcare resource utilisation using real-world data (RWD), and compared findings with health economic modelling from previous studies.

Methods and findings

This retrospective analysis compared data from the German population of a multicentre clinical study (PROGNOSIS, n = 203; sFlt-1/PlGF ratio blinded and unavailable for decision-making) with RWD from University Hospital Leipzig, Germany (n = 281; sFlt-1/PlGF ratio used to guide clinical decision-making). A subgroup of the RWD cohort with the same inclusion criteria as the PROGNOSIS trial (RWD prediction only, n = 99) was also included. sFlt-1/PlGF ratio was measured using fully automated Elecsys® sFlt-1 and PlGF immunoassays (cobas e analyser; Roche Diagnostics).

A similar proportion of women in the RWD and PROGNOSIS cohorts experienced preeclampsia (14.95% vs. 13.79%; p = 0.7938); a smaller proportion of women in the RWD prediction only cohort experienced preeclampsia versus PROGNOSIS (6.06%; p = 0.0526). In women with preeclampsia, median gestational age at delivery (weeks) was comparable in the RWD and PROGNOSIS cohorts (34.0 vs. 34.3, p = 0.5895), but significantly reduced in the RWD prediction only cohort versus PROGNOSIS (27.1, p = 0.0038). sFlt-1/PlGF ratio at baseline visit was not statistically significantly different for the RWD and PROGNOSIS cohorts, irrespective of preeclampsia outcome. Hospitalisations for confirmed preeclampsia were significantly shorter in the RWD cohort versus PROGNOSIS (median 1 vs. 4 days, p = 0.0093); there was no significant difference between RWD prediction only and PROGNOSIS (3 days, p = 0.9638). All-cause hospitalisations were significantly shorter in the RWD (median 1 day; p<0.0001) and RWD prediction only (1 day; p<0.0001) cohorts versus PROGNOSIS (3 days).

Conclusions

This study supports the findings of previous studies, showing that routine clinical use of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio may result in shorter duration of hospitalisations, with potential economic benefits.
Does speech rate influence intertemporal decisions? an experimental investigation
Authors: Chen Josie I. , He Tai-Sen , Liao Hsin-Ya
Published: February 2022

This paper experimentally examines the effect of speech rate on intertemporal decisions. In a delay-discounting task, subjects made a series of intertemporal choices between smaller-sooner and larger-delayed rewards and were asked to listen to a voice recording verbalizing the information for payoff options. We manipulated the speech rate of the voice recordings and administered two treatment conditions: Slow and Fast. We did not find an overall treatment effect in the acoustic manipulation.
The basic reproduction number of COVID-19 across Africa
Authors: Iyaniwura Sarafa A. , Rabiu Musa , David Jummy F. , Kong Jude D.
Published: February 2022

The pandemic of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) took the world by surprise. Following the first outbreak of COVID-19 in December 2019, several models have been developed to study and understand its transmission dynamics. Although the spread of COVID-19 is being slowed down by vaccination and other interventions, there is still a need to have a clear understanding of the evolution of the pandemic across countries, states and communities. To this end, there is a need to have a clearer picture of the initial spread of the disease in different regions. In this project, we used a simple SEIR model and a Bayesian inference framework to estimate the basic reproduction number of COVID-19 across Africa. Our estimates vary between 1.98 (Sudan) and 9.66 (Mauritius), with a median of 3.67 (90% CrI: 3.31–4.12). The estimates provided in this paper will help to inform COVID-19 modeling in the respective countries/regions.
A content analysis of muscularity research, part 1: Research strategy and participants’ demographics
Authors: Lennon Sharron J. , Johnson Kim K. P.
Published: February 2022

This research provides a comprehensive descriptive content analysis of empirical research focused on muscularity and published in refereed journals from 2000 through 2019. This article presents the first part of a two-part series. In this part, the research aims were to characterize the research on muscularity with respect to the methods of inquiry and participant demographics. Specific research questions were: what methods of inquiry (e.g. research strategy, data analyses, sampling, use of hypotheses) describe this research? And what demographics describe the participants in this research? Multiple databases were searched to locate relevant research. This search resulted in 176 empirical articles published in English that contained 203 studies. The descriptive content analysis revealed that researchers primarily conducted cross-sectional research using survey methodology and intermediate levels of statistical analysis. Research questions/hypotheses were often absent. About three times as many males participated as females. Participants were primarily college students of White/Caucasian ethnicity selected through nonprobability sampling. Although age, body mass index, ethnicity and sexuality are the types of demographic information known to be related to muscularity, body satisfaction and the cultural ideal of beauty, they were often not reported.
Galliano: Spectacular Fashion, Kerry Taylor (ed.) (2020)
Authors: Bolton Kendel R.
Published: February 2022

Review of: Galliano: Spectacular Fashion, Kerry Taylor (ed.) (2020)

London: Bloomsbury Visual Arts, 395 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-47427-784-6, h/bk, $65.00
Beyond pretty: The evocative and respective work of Michael-Birch Pierce seen through a collaboration with Levi Strauss
Authors: Arrington Deidra W.
Published: February 2022

Michael-Birch Pierce’s unique artistry and ability to create portraits with a sewing machine has afforded them opportunities to create portraiture all over the world. Likewise, their adeptness with hand and machine embroidery has enthralled many, including the 3D Art Director of Global Brand Creative Services at Levi’s who enlisted Pierce in a collaboration. Using the iconic Levi’s trucker jacket as the canvas, Pierce created one-of-a-kind art pieces, which were sold on the Levi’s website.
Toda la sangre formando un río:1 Contributions to the histories of metal music studies from the Spanish-speaking world
Authors: Varas-Díaz Nelson , Hickam Brian , González-Martínez Susana , Castañeda Mario , Galicia Poblet Fernando , Nieves Molina Alfredo , Scaricaciottoli Emiliano
Published: February 2022

The field of metal music and culture studies is rapidly growing throughout the world. Efforts to document its history and development have emerged via publications in academic journals and edited books. Although this historical documentation of the emergence of an area of study is valuable, it has been geographically laden towards the Global North, and written by English-speaking scholars there. In this article, we aim to inform and balance that history-telling process through an exploration of contributions made from Spanish-speaking scholarly epicentres in the Global South. In doing so, we propose and implement a strategy that (1) surpasses the limitations of universalist approaches towards history by including contributions from epicentres of research in both the Global North and the Global South, (2) engages in a self-critical examination of the field of metal music studies, and asks scholars to examine why, and understand how, the disconnections between metal scholars in the Global North and the Global South come into existence and (3) recognizes that knowledge is developed through many mechanisms that bypass academic journals, monographs and traditional modes of academic writing. In order to understand how these three tenants are manifested in the Spanish-speaking world we present examples from Spain, Puerto Rico, Argentina, México, Guatemala and Perú. We recommend that future efforts to document the histories (in plural) of this area of study take into consideration scholarly efforts outside the Global North as a way to decolonize metal studies.
Effect of vitamin E supplementation on chicken sperm quality: A meta-analysis
Authors: Hayanti Sari Yanti , Hidayat Cecep , Jayanegara Anuraga , Sholikin Mohammad Miftakhus , Rusdiana Supardi , Widyaningrum Yeni , Masito Masito , Yusriani Yenni , Qomariyah Novia , Anggraeny Yenny Nur
Published: February 2022

Background and Aim: Among several factors, the sperm quality of poultry is affected by the rooster's body size and the availability of antioxidants like vitamin E. This study aimed to determine the effect of dietary vitamin E supplementation on rooster sperm quality through a meta-analysis.

Materials and Methods: After verification and evaluation, a total of 19 articles were included in this study. Data, including dietary vitamin E, semen volume, concentration, total sperm cells, pH, motility, viability, percentage of dead and abnormal sperm, vitamin E sperm content, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and testosterone levels, were tabulated in a database; these were subsequently analyzed using mixed modeling with vitamin E dose as a fixed effect and study identity as a random effect.

Results: Dietary supplementation level of vitamin E significantly (p<0.001) affected sperm concentration, significantly affected motility (p<0.001), significantly affected sperm vitamin E (p<0.001), significantly affected viability (p<0.001), and significantly affected chicken sperm fertility (p=0.001). Vitamin E administration also significantly reduced the number of sperm cell deaths (p<0.001); however, increased dietary levels of vitamin E did not affect semen volume (p=0.853), pH (p=0.951), MDA (p=0.542), the percentage of abnormal sperm cells (p=0.343), nor testosterone levels (p=0.063).

Conclusion: Dietary vitamin E supplementation is recommended for male chickens since it generally enhances the quality of their sperm.
Collagen Analysis in Incisional Hernias
Authors: V. Asha Jose
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND Incisional hernia is defined as an abnormal protrusion of a viscus through the musculo-aponecrotic layer of a surgical scar and occurs in 5 – 15 % of laparotomy closures. Mostly they are iatrogenic. Postoperative infection is the most common cause. Collagen is responsible for most of the strength of the wound. There are 13 types of collagen with 25 different polypeptide chains. The fiber forming collagen are type 1,2,3,5 and 11. Synthesis of collagen is complex. METHODS 63 patients undergoing repair for Incisional hernias were studied for their by demographic details such as age, gender, social status and nutritional status after taking informed consent. A small bit of non-scarred skin was taken located away from the site of previous surgery and scar tissue. A small piece of transversalis fascia also taken under direct vision away from any scar, hernia defects, or other pathology. The two bits were fixed in 20 % formaldehyde. They were sectioned and examined after staining with Hematoxylene and eosin stain for abnormal collagen patterns and discontinuity in collagen bundles. RESULTS Total cases studies – 50. 26 (52 %) patients were in the age group of 30 to 40 years, followed by 12 (24 %) in the age group of 40 to 50 years. 09 (18 %) were in the age group of 20 to 30 years. The risk factors noted in the 50 subjects in the study were tabulated in Table 6 showed 20 (40 %) had lax abdominal wall, 12 (24 %) had Diabetes Mellitus, 09 (18 %) had Anaemia, 05 (10 % had malignancy and 04 (08 %) had jaundice. Among the 50 patients 31 (62 %) were found to have abnormal collagen tissues and 19 (38 %) had normal collagen tissues. CONCLUSIONS Defective collagen tissue formation was the cause for Incisional hernia especially in the elderly female patients. Emergency surgeries, lower abdominal incisions were more prone to Incisional hernias. Wound infection, malnutrition, Anemia, associated malignancy, pulmonary infections and co-morbidity played an important role in its causation. KEY WORDS Wound Healing, Collagen, Incision and Hernia
Gait Kinematics in Spastic Hemiplegic Patients - A Descriptive Study
Authors: Karunakaran Vipin Kumar , Kalathummarathu Sreejith , P.C. Muralidharan
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND Gait impairment in stroke has a significant impact on the quality of life of stroke survivors. Instrumental gait analysis helps to identify gait impairments and determine appropriate treatment strategies and monitor the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. The objective of the study was to determine the gait kinematics in spastic hemiplegic patients using the Instrumental Gait Analysis (IGA) system. METHODS The present descriptive study was done in the Gait Laboratory of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Medical College Kottayam. A sample size of 100 subjects was obtained fulfilling the inclusion criteria. Gait analysis was carried out in the gait laboratory using the iSen3.08 system and STT-IWS sensors and kinematic data collected. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed to find out the mean and standard deviation for the quantitative data and qualitative data was expressed as frequency and percentage. RESULTS Reduction in peak hip extension in the late stance phase and peak hip flexion in the swing phase was observed. There was reduced knee flexion during the loading response phase and knee hyperextension at midstance. Knee flexion was reduced during the late stance phase and swing phase. In the majority of subjects, the ankle remained in plantar flexion at initial contact and there was reduced ankle plantar flexion during terminal stance and reduced ankle dorsiflexion in the swing phase. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of hemiplegic gait helps to plan efficient treatment strategies and provides appropriate interventions. The analysis of gait provides insight into the need for various interventional strategies like therapeutic exercises, medical management, neurolysis, orthotic assistances and surgical interventions. This enhances ambulation potential and provides better quality of life. KEY WORDS Stroke, Hemiplegia, Gait, Kinematics.
A Comprehensive Review of Sustainability in Isolated Colombian Microgrids
Authors: Rodriguez Zabala Alejandra , López-García Dahiana , Carvajal-Quintero Sandra Ximena , Arango Manrique Adriana
Published: February 2022

Context: The increase in rural electrification projects has led to the emergence of technologies that allow operating local distribution networks such as isolated microgrids. However, the successful implementation of these isolated microgrids requires that their planning, operation, monitoring, and control consider a framework that allows maintaining technical, economic, and environmental sustainability over an extended time horizon. Therefore, this paper proposes a model that allows identifying the main technical, economic, regulatory, and environmental variables that should be considered for the successful planning of Colombian rural electrification solutions.
Methodology: This paper proposes the use of System Dynamics to create a model that allows describing the causal relationships between the different variables essential for the design and operation of isolated microgrids. To this effect, the identification of the related variables and their corresponding classification are presented, together with a model of theoretical expectations about their relationships.
Results: A model that integrates and describes the behavior of the main variables involved in the operation of microgrids was formulated to analyze the possible implementation of policies that guarantee the sustainability of these solutions and enhance the use of renewable energy resources while improving the continuity of the electric energy supply.
Conclusions: It was possible to show that operation by means of isolated microgrids with the integration of Distributed Energy Resources is a sustainable solution for rural electrification in Colombia, given that it enhances the use of generation resources with a reduced carbon footprint that are present in the territories under study. These microgrids have the potential to improve the living conditions of users by reducing unsatisfied basic needs.
Funding: Universidad Nacional de Colombia – Sede Manizales.
Engels @ 200
Authors: Jacob Frank
Published: February 2022

Friedrich Engels was one of the most important German thinkers of the 19th century and his writings are still important today. Addressing the pressing issues of his time, the broadly interested scholar Engels would write about many different topics, and thereby not only pave the way for a science-based socialism, but also for further studies in sociology, history, and philosophy. To highlight the value and impact of Engels’ work as well as emphasize its relevance for major issues that will determine the 21st century, the present anthology assembles scholars from different countries and research fields to discuss how to read and gain insights from reading his works in our time. It also attempts to stimulate further research about Engels, who 200 years after his birth deserves to be fully brought out of the shadow of his friend and colleague Karl Marx.
In Vitro Cancer Cells Therapy with Nano-gold Depending on its Optical Properties
Authors: Ali Saif M. , Al-Karam Logean Qadri , Alhammer Ali
Published: February 2022

This present study aims to use gold as agent for cancer photo-thermal therapy depending on its optical properties of absorption of light and generation heat due to of local plasmon resonance. In this study we used gold Nano sphere with three different diameters 31 nm, 36 nm and 79 nm which its peak wavelength absorbance at range 532 nm, 535 nm and 546 nm respectively. Then in vitro prepare MDA-MB-231 tumor cell line for exposure to 450nm continuous wavelength laser for 1 minutes with different powers in this procedure MDA-MB-231 cultured divided into 4 groups, group1 incubated with media only and didn’t exposure to laser group2 incubated with media only and exposure to laser group 3 incubated with Nano gold and didn’t exposure to laser group 4 incubated with Nano gold and exposure to laser. Our results show that it could use Nano gold without cause cytotoxicity to cells and it could use as a good agent for cancer photo-thermal therapy.
Optical Properties and Dispersion Parameters of PAAm-PEG Polymer Blend Doped with Antimony (III) Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Zbala Ahed Ali Kadhim , Al-Ogaili Abdulazeez O. Mousa , Abass Khalid Haneen
Published: February 2022

Oxide of antimony (III) (Sb2O3) is a type of amphoteric oxide, is used in a variety of applications is a pacifying agent for glasses, ceramics, enamels, catalyst, production of plastic, and the vulcanization of rubber. Polymer blend films were prepared by mixing polyacrylamide (PAAm) and polyethylene glycol (PEG4000), with different contents of Sb2O3 nanoparticles by casting method. The diffusions of Sb2O3 nanoparticles within the mixture were examined using optical microscopy. The optical microscopic images showed that good diffusions of nanoparticles with some agglomerations. The optical characteristics were studied by the Spectrophotometer for ultraviolet and visible light in the range of (200-1100) nm. Most optical properties increased with the increasing of wavelength except for transmittance and energy gaps. The analysis of optical properties is the focus of this paper of (PAAm-PEG-Sb2O3) nanocomposite polymer films and study the (Dispersion energy)Ed, (single oscillator energy)Eo, (static refraction index)n(0), and (Moments) M-1 and M-3 are examples of dispersion parameters.
Elimination of Biofilm Produced by Klebsiella Pneumonia Using Strontium Radioactive Sources (Sr90)
Authors: Sabaa Hanaa Salih
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was conducted to elimination biofilm production from K. pneumonia by Sr90 radiosources inorder to removal biofilm that contained with K. pneumonia infection by beta ray. Study design and study populations of 100 isolates of K. pneumonia that identified by Vitek2GN, results of identification for all isolates approve are K. pneumonia. Study production of biofilm achieved by Congo red agar test, positive results by formation black colony on Congo red agar and negative results with red colony on Congo red agar. Influence Strontium Sr90 on K. pneumonia with dose D*(1hr.) 0.73251*10-2 msV; D*(2hr.) 1.46502*10-2 msV; D*(3hr.) 2.19753*10-2 msV; D*(4hr.) 2.93004*10-2 msV in different hours percentage of killing for this bacteria reach to 90% with control 300 colony, elimination of biofilm production from this bacteria by all doses in different time with formation pink color of colony compared with control formation black colony on Congo red agar, this results of affect by Strontium cause lost production biofilm by turn off into pink color when exposed to different doses of beta rays emitted from Strontium compared with control with black color.
Rising syphilis rates in Canada, 2011–2020
Authors: Aho Josephine , Lybeck Cassandra , Tetteh Ashorkor , Issa Carmen , Kouyoumdjian Fiona , Wong Jason , Anderson Alexandrea , Popovic Nashira
Published: February 2022

Background: Syphilis rates are of public health concern in Canada, with multiple jurisdictions reporting outbreaks over the past five years. The objective of this article is to describe trends in infectious and congenital syphilis in Canada 2011–2020. Methods: Routine surveillance of syphilis is conducted through the Canadian Notifiable Disease Surveillance System (CNDSS). In response to rising rates of syphilis, all provinces and territories (P/Ts) have also submitted enhanced surveillance data on infectious syphilis to the Public Health Agency of Canada through the Syphilis Outbreak Investigation Coordinating Committee (SOICC) starting in 2018. Descriptive analyses of CNDSS and SOICC surveillance data 2011–2020 by age, sex, pregnancy status, male sexual orientation and P/Ts were performed. Results: The national rate of infectious syphilis increased from 5.1 per 100,000 population in 2011 to 24.7 per 100,000 population in 2020.The rates increased in almost all P/Ts, with the Prairie provinces reporting the greatest relative increases from 2016 to 2020 (more than 400%). Rates in males were consistently higher than rates in females over the past 10 years; however, from 2016 to 2020, rates among females increased by 773%, compared with 73% among males. Although the proportion of cases who self-identify as gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men decreased from 54% to 38% between 2018 and 2020, they still represent a high proportion of cases (according to data from eight P/Ts). From 2016 to 2020, rates of infectious syphilis increased in every age group, especially in females aged 15–39 years. Confirmed early congenital syphilis cases for 2020 increased considerably from prior years, with 50 cases reported in 2020, compared with 4 cases in 2016. Conclusion: Infectious and congenital syphilis rates are a growing concern in Canada and the nature of the syphilis epidemics across Canada appears to be evolving, as evidenced by recent trends. More data and research are needed to better understand the drivers associated with the recent changes in the epidemiology of syphilis in Canada.
Évaluation en laboratoire de deux trousses de test au point de service pour le dépistage de la syphilis infectieuse
Authors: Tsang Raymond SW , Shuel Michelle , Hayden Kristy , Van Caeseele Paul , Stein Derek
Published: February 2022

Contexte : La syphilis est une maladie sexuellement transmissible dont le tableau clinique peut être atypique. Les tests de laboratoire classiques pour confirmer le diagnostic ne sont pas assez rapides pour influencer la décision clinique sur le traitement et le dépistage des contacts. Des trousses de test rapide au point de service (TRPS) peuvent s’avérer utiles pour le contrôle des maladies infectieuses. Néanmoins, au Canada, il n’existe pas encore de TRPS pour la syphilis. L’objectif de la présente étude est d’évaluer deux TRPS (test RevealMD Rapid de détection d’anticorps dirigés contre le tréponème [Treponema pallidum] et test de dépistage et de confirmation de la syphilis DPP®) pour la détection de la syphilis infectieuse. Méthodes : Une centaine de prélèvements sériques ayant un statut sérologique de syphilis connu, d’après les résultats des tests tréponémique et non tréponémique, ont été analysés en laboratoire à l’aveugle, avec deux TRPS par deux opérateurs indépendants. Les résultats des TRPS ont été analysés dans le but d’évaluer la capacité de ces derniers à détecter la syphilis infectieuse. Résultats : Le TRPS RevealMD Rapid TP a montré une sensibilité globale de 95,0 % et une spécificité de 83,3 %, tandis que le TRPS DPP Syphilis Screen and Confirm Assay a montré une sensibilité de 87,5 % et une spécificité de 98,3 %. Les deux TRPS ont donné une sensibilité de 100 % sur les prélèvements de syphilis active avec des titres de plus de 1:4 sur le test du Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL), mais leur sensibilité a diminué pour les prélèvements avec des titres de VDRL faibles. Les deux TRPS ont donné des résultats faiblement ou très faiblement réactifs sur 11,3 % à 25,0 % des prélèvements positifs à la présence d’anticorps dirigés contre les antigènes du tréponème. Conclusion : Cette évaluation en laboratoire a montré des résultats prometteurs pour la détection de la syphilis infectieuse par les deux TRPS. D’autres évaluations sur le terrain seront nécessaires pour confirmer ces résultats préliminaires.
Congenital syphilis re-emergence in Winnipeg, Manitoba
Authors: Benoit Peter , Tennenhouse Lana , Lapple Alicia , Hill-Carroll Gillian , Shaw Souradet , Bullard Jared , Plourde Pierre
Published: February 2022

Background: Infectious syphilis rates have been increasing in Winnipeg, Manitoba among individuals during their childbearing years. Untreated or inadequately treated prenatal infection often results in congenital syphilis, with devastating consequences to fetal health and survival. The objective of this study was to review public health surveillance data regarding congenital syphilis incidence and birthing parent risk factors in Winnipeg from 2018 to 2020. Methods: Data extracted from a population-based surveillance database maintained by the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority Public Health investigations for all 2018–2020 probable or confirmed cases of early congenital syphilis or syphilitic stillbirth were reviewed. Rates of congenital syphilis were calculated per 1,000 live births. Descriptive analyses were performed to describe birthing parent age, neighbourhood of residence, intravenous substance use, Child and Family Services involvement, access to prenatal care and obtainment of adequate prenatal treatment. Results: There were eight cases of confirmed/probable congenital syphilis in 2018, 22 cases in 2019 and 30 cases in 2020. Average birthing parent age was 26.5–27.0 years. The majority (66.7%) of birthing parents lived in inner city neighbourhoods with known infectious syphilis outbreaks. Over 50% of birthing parents did not receive any prenatal care, or the care received consisted of inadequate treatment or follow-up. Reinfection among birthing parents who did receive prenatal care was suspected in an additional 23.3% of cases. Conclusion: Congenital syphilis rates in Winnipeg have increased dramatically. Public health and healthcare provider efforts to address the needs of the community are vital for promoting access to safe and effective prenatal care.
Note on structural properties of graphs
Authors: Arreola-Bautista Luis D. , Reyna Gerardo , Romero-Valencia Jesús , Sigarreta José M.
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we establish sufficient and necessary conditions for the existence of abelian subgroups of maximal order of a finite group

G

G

, by means of its commuting graph. The order of these subgroups attains the bound

c
=
∣

[

x

1

]

∣

+
⋯
+

∣

[

x

m

]

∣

c=| \left[{x}_{1}]| \hspace{-0.25em}+\cdots +\hspace{-0.25em}\hspace{0.33em}| \left[{x}_{m}]|

, where

[

x

i

]

\left[{x}_{i}]

denotes the conjugacy class of

x

i

{x}_{i}

in

G

G

and

m

m

is the smallest integer

j

j

such that

∣

[

x

1

]

∣

+
⋯
+
∣

[

x

j

]

∣
≥
∣

C

G

(

x

j

)

∣

| \left[{x}_{1}]| \hspace{-0.25em}+\cdots +| \left[{x}_{j}]| \ge | {C}_{G}\left({x}_{j})|

, where

C

G

(

x

j

)

{C}_{G}\left({x}_{j})

is the centralizer of

x

j

{x}_{j}

in

G

G

.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[{μ2-3-carboxy-2,3-bis((4-methylbenzoyl)oxy)propanoato-κ2
O:O′}tris(methanol-κ1
O)lanthanum(III)], C63H63LaO27
Authors: Han Yingying , Feng Sisi , Lu Liping
Published: February 2022

C63H63LaO27, trigonal, R3 (no. 146), a = 27.5427(11) Å, c = 7.7330(4) Å, V = 5080.3(5) Å3, Z = 3, R

gt
(F) = 0.037, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.096, T = 100 K.
Impacts of adopting specialized agricultural programs relying on “good practice” – Empirical evidence from fruit growers in Vietnam
Authors: Thanh Truc Ngo Thi , Thuc Le Vinh
Published: February 2022

Vietnamese Good Agricultural Practice (VietGAP) has been introduced in many provinces in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam to enhance the competitive advantage to fruit growers, including Idor longan (Dimocarpus longanLour.) growers, to explore the stricter domestic and export markets and increase the income of the fruit growers in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. This article presents a case study on the impacts of adopting VietGAP on the income of fruit growers (Idor longan) in the Mekong Delta by applying bothT-test and Propensity Score Matching of 180 VietGAP and non-VietGAP adopters. The results show that applying VietGAP can reduce production cost, increase revenue, and profit to fruit growers. This is evidence to prove the benefits of adopting VietGAP and encourage the expansion of VietGAP to many fruits and other agricultural sectors in Vietnam.
Spectroscopic Investigation of the System TeCl4/[NEt4]PF6 in Solution and the Crystal Structure of [NEt4]2[Te2Cl10]
Authors: Fleischer Holger , Schollmeyer Dieter
Published: February 2022

Solutions containing TeCl4and [NEt4][PF6] in CH2Cl2 were investigated by means of UV/vis and NMR spectroscopy in order to study the complex chemistry of TeCl4 with the [PF6]− anion. The results show formation of [TeCl5]− and strong interactions of [PF6]− with a tellurium containing species, presumably [TeCl3]+. The life time of the TeIV-PF6 complex is long enough to give different signals in the 19F NMR spectrum of a solution containing excess [PF6]−. Even a fivefold excess of Cl− ions over [PF6]− does hardly lead to a dissociation of [TeCl3・ ・ ・PF6]. Crystals of [NEt4]2[Te2Cl10] were obtained from a 4:1 solution of [NEt4]PF6 and TeCl4 in CH2Cl2. The compound crystallizes in the triclinic space group P1, a = 0.82626(7), b = 1.04260(8), c=1.9915(3) nm, α = 84.641(9), β = 84.891(9), γ = 75.208(6)◦ (T = 295 K). Slight variations in the molecular environment can have a substantial influence on the interatomic distances within the Te2Cl2 bridge of the [Te2Cl10]2− ion. This conclusion is confirmed by ab initio calculations.
Crystal Structure and Thermal Solid-State Reactivity of Ammonium Cyanoureate NH4[H2NC(=O)NCN]
Authors: Lotsch Bettina V. , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: February 2022

The ammonium salt of cyanourea NH4[H2NC(=O)NCN] has been synthesised via an acid-base route from the parent acid and characterized by single-crystal and powder X-ray diffraction,NMR and vibrational spectroscopy, mass spectrometry as well as thermal analysis. The molecular salt (P21/c, a = 388.95(8), b = 1121.0(2), c = 1096.4(2) pm, β = 92.57(3)◦, V = 477.5(2)・106 pm3, Z = 4, T = 140 K) which may formally be derived from the related compound ammonium dicyanamide NH4[N(CN)2] by addition of one molecule water, consists of isolated ammonium and cyanoureate ions which are assembled via H・ ・ ・N and H・ ・ ・O hydrogen bonds, forming a three-dimensional arrangement. At elevated temperatures, ammonium cyanoureate undergoes a complex transformation affording the formation of urea and cyanoguanylurea H2NC(=O)NHC(NH2)=NCN or the isomeric ammeline (C3N3)(NH2)2(OH) as the main products, depending on the reaction conditions. The transformation is accompanied by consecutive reactions such as proton transfer and the dis- and reassembly of molecular fragments, yielding a macroscopic segregation of the reaction products. The conversion represents yet another example of a complex reaction proceeding in the solid-state.
Anatomical, physical, and mechanical properties of thirteen Malaysian bamboo species
Authors: Siam Nordahlia Abdullah , Uyup Mohd Khairun Anwar , Husain Hamdan , Mohmod Abd Latif , Awalludin Mohd Fahmi
Published: February 2022

The anatomical, physical, and mechanical properties of 13 Malaysian bamboos and the trend of these properties along the bamboo culms’ height were examined. The results showed that these properties varied between the 13 species and they were also affected by the culm height. From the results obtained, the fibre morphology, as well as radial, longitudinal, and tangential shrinkage from green to oven-dry decreased from the basal to the top of the bamboo culm. In contrast, the opposite trend was observed for the density, modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, and percentage of the vascular bundle. The potential usage of 13 bamboo species is also considered.
Changes of the structures and properties of corn stover during acid sulfite pretreatment for improved enzymatic hydrolysis
Authors: Tan Liping , Liu Zhongyang , Liu Tongjun , Wang Tengfei
Published: February 2022

Acid sulfite pretreatment has been shown to be an effective and practical method for improving the enzymatic hydrolysis of corn stover (CS) for bioethanol production. In the present study, the changes in the structures and properties of CS during the acid sulfite pretreatment process were investigated. The results showed that the crystallinity of cellulose in CS was increased by the pretreatment. The recalcitrant structure of untreated CS was destroyed by the acid sulfite pretreatment, which led to an increase in surface area being exposed. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the temperature for the maximum mass loss rate of the acid sulfite-pretreated CS shifted by 40 °C compared to that of the untreated CS. Large amounts of gas species, such as CO2, CO, CH4, and H2O, were released during the pyrolysis process. This work provides a theoretical reference to the determination of the optimal pretreatment parameters for the conversion of CS into bioethanol.
Konsistensi Partai Keadilan Sejahtera di Luar Pemerintahan Joko Widodo pada Periode 2014-2019 dan 2019-2024
Authors: Soraya Sarah
Published: February 2022

Abstract. In 2019 Partai Keadilan Sejahtera (PKS) chose to be in another carriage of opposition, although other major parties tried to make friends with the government. Referring to the vote in the 2014-2019 elections, the number of PKS voters increased sharply by 36% to a difference of 3,013,459 votes, from 2019 to 2014. Therefore, this article will examine what factors made the Prosperous Justice Party choose to remain in opposition during the two periods of Joko Widodo's leadership as well as the impacts obtained both internally and governmently. This research uses qualitative method. The results showed that when compared to most other parties that voted to join the coalition, they chose to be consistent. This was done to attract new voters. On the other hand, they are is trying to defend its base of voters. The opposition is doing it in the legislative sector while still providing constructive inputs. The impact of the decision is to get a positive response with the increase in votes and flexibility in expressing opinions in parliament. Keywords: Opposition, PKS, political parties, base voters, vote increase. Abstrak. Pada tahun 2019 PKS memilih untuk berada di gerbong lain yaitu oposisi, meskipun partai besar yang lain beramai-ramai berusaha untuk berkawan dengan pemerintah. Mengacu pada perolehan suara pada pemilu 2014-2019, jumlah pemilih PKS mengalami kenaikan yang cukup tajam sebanyak 36%. Sehubungan dengan itu artikel ini akan mengkaji faktor yang membuat PKS memilih beroposisi selama dua periode Joko Widodo serta dampak yang didapatkan baik internal maupun pemerintah. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa jika dibandingkan dengan kebanyakan partai lain yang memilih untuk bergabung dengan koalisi, PKS memilih untuk konsisten. Hal tersebut dilakukan untuk menarik minat pemilih baru, sekaligus berusaha mempertahankan para base voters. Oposisi dilakukan dalam sektor legislatif dengan tetap memberikan masukan-masukan konstruktif. Dampak dari keputusan beroposi yaitu mendapatkan respon positif dengan adanya kenaikan suara dan keleluasaan berpendapat dalam parlemen.Kata Kunci: Oposisi, PKS, partai politik, base voters, kenaikan suara.
Late-Career Pediatric Hospitalists: Programmatic Accommodations and Supports
Authors: Weiss Jeffrey , Gage Sandra , Kusma Jared , Mirea Lucia
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

As the number of late-career pediatric hospitalists increases, issues regarding aging and retirement will require more attention. Long shifts and overnight clinical responsibilities may be challenging for older physicians. Our study objectives include investigation of the current state of practice regarding work hours, night call responsibilities, productivity requirements, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) exposure modifications, and division chief knowledge about retirement supports for late-career pediatric hospitalists.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study used a web survey, distributed in spring of 2020 on the American Academy of Pediatrics, Section on Hospital Medicine, Division Chief listserv. The questionnaire asked about (1) program demographics, (2) overnight call responsibilities, (3) clinical schedules, (4) modifications for COVID-19, and (5) retirement benefits and supports. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics and the Fisher exact test.

RESULTS

The 47 responding programs employ 982 hospitalists in 728 full-time equivalent positions. Division chiefs estimated 117 (12%) individuals were aged 50 to 64 years and 16 (1.6%) were 65 years or older. Most programs (91%) had at least 1 member 50 to 64 years of age; 13 programs (28%) had a member aged 65 or older. Larger programs were more likely to allow older physicians to opt out of some night call responsibilities. Most programs made some accommodations for COVID-19 exposure. Other than financial counseling and academic benefits, most programs did not provide retirement counseling or other supports for retiring physicians.

CONCLUSION

Although limited by a low response rate, we found most programs had older faculty. Substantial variation exists in how programs make accommodations and offer support for older members.
Priorities for Safer In-Person School for Children With Medical Complexity During COVID-19
Authors: Kelly Michelle M. , DeMuri Gregory P. , Barton Hanna J. , Nacht Carrie L. , Butteris Sabrina M. , Katz Barbara , Burns Rebecca , Koval Shawn , Ehlenbach Mary L. , Stanley Julia , Wald Ellen R. , Warner Gemma , Wilson Louise F. , Myrah Gary E. , Parker Daniel E. , Coller Ryan J.
Published: February 2022

OBJECTIVES

To establish statewide consensus priorities for safer in-person school for children with medical complexity (CMC) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic using a rapid, replicable, and transparent priority-setting method.

METHODS

We adapted the Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative Method, which allows for crowdsourcing ideas from diverse stakeholders and engages technical experts in prioritizing these ideas using predefined scoring criteria. Crowdsourcing surveys solicited ideas from CMC families, school staff, clinicians and administrators through statewide distribution groups/listservs using the prompt: “It is safe for children with complex health issues and those around them (families, teachers, classmates, etc.) to go to school in-person during the COVID-19 pandemic if/when…” Ideas were aggregated and synthesized into a unique list of candidate priorities. Thirty-four experts then scored each candidate priority against 5 criteria (equity, impact on COVID-19, practicality, sustainability, and cost) using a 5-point Likert scale. Scores were weighted and predefined thresholds applied to identify consensus priorities.

RESULTS

From May to June 2021, 460 stakeholders contributed 1166 ideas resulting in 87 candidate priorities. After applying weighted expert scores, 10 consensus CMC-specific priorities exceeded predetermined thresholds. These priorities centered on integrating COVID-19 safety and respiratory action planning into individualized education plans, educating school communities about CMC’s unique COVID-19 risks, using medical equipment safely, maintaining curricular flexibility, ensuring masking and vaccination, assigning seats during transportation, and availability of testing and medical staff at school.

CONCLUSIONS

Priorities for CMC, identified by statewide stakeholders, complement and extend existing recommendations. These priorities can guide implementation efforts to support safer in-person education for CMC.