bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyvinyl alcohol coating releasing fungal blastospores improves kill effect of attract-and-kill beads
Authors: Hermann Katharina M. , Grünberger Alexander , Patel Anant V.
Published: July 2023

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a biodegradable, water-soluble polymer with excellent film forming properties, commonly studied or used as tablet coating, food packaging or controlled release fertilizers. Attract-and-kill (AK) beads are sustainable, microbial alternatives to synthetic soil insecticides, whose onset of lethal effect largely depend on how fast the encapsulated entomopathogenic fungus forms virulent conidia. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a water-soluble coating accelerating the kill effect of AK beads by immediately releasing virulent Metarhizium brunneum CB15-III blastospores. We assessed three PVA types (PVA 4-88, 8-88, 10-98) which differed in their degree of hydrolysis or molecular weight for their ability to release viable blastospores from thin films after drying at 60–40 °C, and examined how polyethylene glycol and soy-lecithin impact the blastospore survival. Finally, we evaluated the effectiveness of coated AK beads in a bioassay against Tenebrio molitor larvae. The blastospore release rate quadrupled within the first 5 min with decreasing molecular weight and degree of hydrolysis, with PVA 4-88 releasing 79 ± 19% blastospores. Polyethylene glycol and soy-lecithin significantly increased the blastospore survival to 18–28% for all three PVA types. Coated beads exhibited a uniform, 22.4 ± 7.3 µm thin coating layer, with embedded blastospores, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. The blastospore coating increased the mortality rate of T. molitor larvae over uncoated AK beads, decreasing the median lethal time from 10 to 6 days. Consequently, the blastospore coating accelerated the kill effect of regular AK beads. These findings pave the way to enhanced pest control efficacy from coated systems such as beads or seeds.

Graphical Abstract
Can routinely collected administrative data effectively be used to evaluate and validate endpoints used in breast cancer clinical trials? Protocol for a scoping review of the literature
Authors: Shah Hely , Wolfe Dianna , Clemons Mark , Liu Michelle , Thavorn Kednapa , Veroniki Areti-Angeliki , Lunny Carole , Pond Greg , McGee Sharon , Skidmore Becky , Arnaout Angel , Hutton Brian
Published: July 2023

Background

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are a critical component of evidence-based medicine and the evolution of patient care. However, the costs of conducting a RCT can be prohibitive. A promising approach toward reduction of costs and lessening of the burden of intensive and lengthy patient follow-up is the use of routinely collected healthcare data (RCHD), commonly called real-world data. We propose a scoping review to identify existing RCHD case definitions of breast cancer progression and survival and their diagnostic performance.

Methods

We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL to identify primary studies of women with either early-stage or metastatic breast cancer, managed with established therapies, that evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of one or more RCHD-based case definitions or algorithms of disease progression (i.e., recurrence, progression-free survival, disease-free survival, or invasive disease-free survival) or survival (i.e., breast-cancer-free survival or overall survival) compared with a reference standard measure (e.g., chart review or a clinical trial dataset). Study characteristics and descriptions of algorithms will be extracted along with measures of the diagnostic accuracy of each algorithm (e.g., sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value), which will be summarized both descriptively and in structured figures/tables.

Discussion

Findings from this scoping review will be clinically meaningful for breast cancer researchers globally. Identification of feasible and accurate strategies to measure patient-important outcomes will potentially reduce RCT budgets as well as lessen the burden of intensive trial follow-up on patients.

Systematic review registration

Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/6D9RS)
An ECC-based mutual data access control protocol for next-generation public cloud
Authors: Khan Naveed , Jianbiao Zhang , Lim Huhnkuk , Ali Jehad , Ullah Intikhab , Salman Pathan Muhammad , Chaudhry Shehzad Ashraf
Published: July 2023

Through the broad usage of cloud computing and the extensive utilization of next-generation public clouds, people can share valuable information worldwide via a wireless medium. Public cloud computing is used in various domains where thousands of applications are connected and generate numerous amounts of data stored on the cloud servers via an open network channel. However, open transmission is vulnerable to several threats, and its security and privacy are still a big challenge. Some proposed security solutions for protecting next-generation public cloud environments are in the literature. However, these methods may not be suitable for a wide range of applications in a next-generation public cloud environment due to their high computing and communication overheads because if security protocol is strengthened, it inversely impacts performance and vice versa. Furthermore, these security frameworks are vulnerable to several attacks, such as replay, denial-of-service (DoS), insider, server spoofing, and masquerade, and also lack strong user anonymity and privacy protection for the end user. Therefore, this study aims to design an elliptic curve cryptographic (ECC) based data access control protocol for a public cloud environment. The security mechanism of the proposed protocol can be verified using BAN (Burrows-Abadi-Needham) logic and ProVerif 2.03, as well as informally using assumptions and pragmatic illustration. In contrast, in the performance analysis section, we have considered the parameters such as the complexity of storage overheads, communication, and computation time. As per the numerical results obtained in the performance analysis section, the proposed protocol is lightweight, robust, and easily implemented in a practical next-generation cloud computing environment.
High risk of bloodstream infection of carbapenem-resistant enterobacteriaceae carriers in neutropenic children with hematological diseases
Authors: Liu Li-Peng , Lin Qing-Song , Yang Wen-Yu , Chen Xiao-Juan , Liu Fang , Chen Xia , Ren Yuan-Yuan , Ruan Min , Chen Yu-Mei , Zhang Li , Zou Yao , Guo Ye , Zhu Xiao-Fan
Published: July 2023

Background

Neutropenic children with hematological diseases were associated with higher morbidity of carbapenem-resistant enterobacteriaceae (CRE) blood-stream infection (BSI) or colonization. But it was still murky regarding clinical characteristics, antimicrobial susceptibility, and outcomes of CRE-BSI in these patients. We aimed to identify the potential risk factors for subsequent bacteremia and clinical outcome caused by CRE-BSI.

Methods

Between 2008 and 2020, 2,465 consecutive neutropenic children were enrolled. The incidence and characteristics of CRE-BSI were explored in CRE-colonizers versus non-colonizers. Survival analysis was performed and risk factors for CRE-BSI and 30-day mortality were evaluated.

Results

CRE-carriers were identified in 59/2465 (2.39%) neutropenic children and19/59 (32.2%) developed CRE-BSI, while 12/2406 (0.5%) of non-carriers developed CRE-BSI (P < 0.001). The 30-day survival probability was significantly lower in patients with CRE-BSI than in non-BSI (73.9% vs. 94.9%, P = 0.050). Moreover, the 30-day survival probability of patients with CRE-BSI was also poorer in CRE-carriers versus non-carriers (49.7% vs. 91.7%, P = 0.048). Tigecycline and amikacin exhibited satisfactory antimicrobial activity against all isolated strains. Fluoroquinolone sensitivity was lower in E. coli (26.3%) strains versus satisfactory susceptibility of E. cloacae and other CRE-strains (91.2%). CRE-BSI accompanying intestinal mucosal damage were independent risk factors for 30-day survival probability (both P < 0.05), while combined antibiotic therapy and longer duration of neutropenia were more prone to developed CRE-BSI (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

CRE-colonizers were prone to subsequent BSI and CRE-BSI was regarded as an independent predictor predisposing to high mortality in neutropenic children. Moreover, individualized antimicrobial therapy should be adopted due to different features of patients with separate CRE strains.
Anterior mediastinal tracheostomy for severe tracheal stenosis in a child with severe motor and intellectual disabilities: a case report
Authors: Iwanaka Tsuyoshi , Shiraishi Takeshi , Hirose Ryuichiro , Sato Toshihiko
Published: July 2023

Background

Owing to recurrent aspiration pneumonia and airway stenosis secondary to thoracic deformities, tracheostomy or laryngotracheal separation are often necessary in children with severe motor and intellectual disabilities. However, these procedures are associated with the risks of tracheal stenosis due to tracheal granulation and tracheoinnominate artery fistula formation. We report a case of a child with severe motor and intellectual disabilities treated with an anterior mediastinal tracheostomy.

Case presentation

The patient was a 15-year-old boy with severe motor and intellectual disabilities due to intractable epilepsy. Due to thoracic deformity and tracheomalacia, the patient had a flattened and narrowed trachea. Accordingly, laryngotracheal separation was performed 4 months before admission to avoid aspiration pneumonia. Due to a common cold, the patient required frequent sputum suctioning, which exacerbated the tracheal stenosis. Bronchoscopy revealed tracheal stenosis 4–5 cm caudal to the tracheostomy site, tracheal mucosal ulcers, and pulsation of the innominate artery on the anterior wall of the trachea. We performed an anterior mediastinum tracheostomy to release the tracheal stenosis and prevent tracheoinnominate artery fistula formation.

Conclusions

Anterior mediastinal tracheostomy has several advantages. Including sufficient release of bony compression, release of tracheal hyperextension, and relief of tracheal and innominate artery contact ensures a cannula-free tracheostomy, and there is no need to dissect the brachiocephalic artery. It is the procedure of choice in cases of head and neck malignancies requiring extensive tracheal resection and could be a good surgical option for severe tracheal stenosis and tracheoinnominate artery fistula in children with severe motor and intellectual disabilities.
Protocol for a multi-site randomised controlled feasibility study investigating intermittently scanned blood continuous glucose monitoring use for gestational diabetes: the RECOGNISE study
Authors: Davies Anna , Lenguerrand Erik , Scott Eleanor , Kandiyali Rebecca , Douek Isabelle , Norman Jane , Loose Abi , Sawyer Lynn , Timlin Laura , Burden Christy
Published: July 2023

Background

Incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is increasing and is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes including macrosomia, pre-eclampsia, and pre-term delivery. Optimum glycaemic control can reduce these adverse perinatal outcomes. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) informs users about interstitial glucose levels allowing early detection of glycaemic excursions and pharmacological or behavioural intervention. Few adequately powered RCTs to evaluate the impact of using CGM in women with GDM on perinatal outcomes have been undertaken.

We aim to establish the feasibility of a multi-site RCT to evaluate the clinical- and cost-effectiveness of an intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitor (isCGM) compared with self-monitored blood glucose (SMBG) in women with GDM for reducing fetal macrosomia and improving maternal and fetal outcomes. We will evaluate recruitment and retention rates, adherence to device requirements, adequacy of data capture and acceptability of trial design and isCGM devices.

Methods

Open-label multicentre randomised controlled feasibility trial. Inclusion criteria: pregnant women, singleton pregnancy, recent diagnosis of GDM (within 14 days of commencing medication, up to 34 weeks gestation) prescribed metformin and/or insulin. Women will be consecutively recruited and randomised to isCGM (FreestyleLibre2) or SMBG. At every antenatal visit, glucose measurements will be evaluated. The SMBG group will use blinded isCGM for 14 days at baseline (~ 12–32 weeks) and ~ 34–36 weeks. The primary outcome is the recruitment rate and absolute number of women participating. Clinical assessments of maternal and fetal/infant health will be undertaken at baseline, birth, up to ~ 13 weeks post-natal. Psychological, behavioural and health economic measures will be assessed at baseline and ~ 34–36 weeks gestation. Qualitative interviews will be undertaken with study decliners, participants, and professionals to explore trial acceptability, of using isCGM and SMBG.

Discussion

GDM can be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. isCGM could offer a timely, easy-to-engage-with intervention, to improve glycaemic control, potentially reducing adverse pregnancy, birth and long-term health outcomes for mother and child. This study will determine the feasibility of conducting a large-scale multisite RCT of isCGM in women with GDM.

Trial registration

This study has been registered with the ISRCTN (reference:ISRCTN42125256, Date registered: 07/11/2022).
Patient and public involvement in health research in Norway: a survey among researchers and patient organisations
Authors: Aas Sigve Nyvik , Distefano Marita Borg , Pettersen Ingvild , Gravrok Berit , Nordvoll Laila Yvonne , Bjaastad Jon Fauskanger , Grimsgaard Sameline
Published: July 2023

Background

Patient and public involvement (PPI) in health research may improve both the relevance and quality of the research. There is however a lack of research investigating the experiences, attitudes and barriers towards PPI in clinical research in Norway. The Norwegian Clinical Research Infrastructure Network therefore conducted a survey among researchers and PPI contributors aiming to investigate experiences with PPI and identify current challenges for successful involvement.

Methods

Two survey questionnaires were developed and distributed in October and November 2021. The survey targeting 1185 researchers was distributed from the research administrative system in the Regional Health Trusts. The survey targeting PPI contributors was distributed through Norwegian patient organisations, regional and national competence centers.

Results

The response rate was 30% among researchers and was unobtainable from PPI contributors due to the survey distribution strategy. PPI was most frequently used in the planning and conduct of the studies, and less utilized in dissemination and implementation of results. Both researchers and user representatives were generally positive to PPI, and agreed that PPI might be more useful in clinical research than in underpinning research. Researchers and PPI contributors who reported that roles and expectations were clarified in advance, were more likely to experience a common understanding of roles and responsibilities in the research project. Both groups pointed to the importance of earmarked funding for PPI activities. There was a demand for a closer collaboration between researchers and patient organisations to develop accessible tools and effective models for PPI in health research.

Conclusions

Surveys among clinical researchers and PPI contributors indicate overall positive attitudes towards PPI in clinical research. However, more resources, such as budget, time, and accessible tools, are needed. Clarifying roles and expectations, and creating new PPI models under resource constraints can enhance its effectiveness. PPI is underutilized in disseminating and implementing research results, presenting an opportunity for improving healthcare outcomes.
Neutralizing Antibody Validation Testing and Reporting Harmonization
Authors: Myler Heather , Pedras-Vasconcelos João , Lester Todd , Civoli Francesca , Xu Weifeng , Wu Bonnie , Vainshtein Inna , Luo Linlin , Hassanein Mohamed , Liu Susana , Ramaswamy Swarna Suba , Mora Johanna , Pennucci Jason , McCush Fred , Lavelle Amy , Jani Darshana , Ambakhutwala Angela , Baltrukonis Daniel , Barker Breann , Carmean Rebecca , Chung Shan , Dai Sheng , DeWall Stephen , Dholakiya Sanjay L. , Dodge Robert , Finco Deborah , Yan Haoheng , Hays Amanda , Hu Zheng , Inzano Cynthia , Kamen Lynn , Lai Ching-Ha , Meyer Erik , Nelson Robert , Paudel Amrit , Phillips Kelli , Poupart Marie-Eve , Qu Qiang , Abhari Mohsen Rajabi , Ryding Janka , Sheldon Curtis , Spriggs Franklin , Warrino Dominic , Wu Yuling , Yang Lin , Pasas-Farmer Stephanie
Published: July 2023

Evolving immunogenicity assay performance expectations and a lack of harmonized neutralizing antibody validation testing and reporting tools have resulted in significant time spent by health authorities and sponsors on resolving filing queries. A team of experts within the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists’ Therapeutic Product Immunogenicity Community across industry and the Food and Drug Administration addressed challenges unique to cell-based and non-cell-based neutralizing antibody assays. Harmonization of validation expectations and data reporting will facilitate filings to health authorities and are described in this manuscript. This team provides validation testing and reporting strategies and tools for the following assessments: (1) format selection; (2) cut point; (3) assay acceptance criteria; (4) control precision; (5) sensitivity including positive control selection and performance tracking; (6) negative control selection; (7) selectivity/specificity including matrix interference, hemolysis, lipemia, bilirubin, concomitant medications, and structurally similar analytes; (8) drug tolerance; (9) target tolerance; (10) sample stability; and (11) assay robustness.

Graphical Abstract
Contemporary Techniques and Potential Transungual Drug Delivery Nanosystems for The Treatment of Onychomycosis
Authors: Abd-Elsalam Wessam H. , Abouelatta Samar M.
Published: July 2023

The humanoid nail is considered an exceptional protective barrier that is formed mainly from keratin. Onychomycosis is the cause of 50% of nail infections that is generally caused by dermatophytes. Firstly, the infection was regarded as a cosmetic problem but because of the tenacious nature of onychomycosis and its relapses, these infections have attracted medical attention. The first line of therapy was the oral antifungal agents which were proven to be effective; nevertheless, they exhibited hepato-toxic side effects, alongside drug interactions. Following, the opportunity was shifted to the topical remedies, as onychomycosis is rather superficial, yet this route is hindered by the keratinized layers in the nail plate. A potential alternative to overcome the obstacle was applying different mechanical, physical, and chemical methods to boost the penetration of drugs through the nail plate. Unfortunately, these methods might be expensive, require an expert to be completed, or even be followed by pain or more serious side effects. Furthermore, topical formulations such as nail lacquers and patches do not provide enough sustaining effects. Recently, newer therapies such as nanovesicles, nanoparticles, and nanoemulsions have emerged for the treatment of onychomycosis that provided effective treatment with possibly no side effects. This review states the treatment strategies such as mechanical, physical, and chemical methods, and highlights various innovative dosage forms and nanosystems developed in the last 10 years with a focus on advanced findings regarding formulation systems. Furthermore, it demonstrates the natural bioactives and their formulation as nanosystems, and the most relevant clinical outcomes.

Graphical Abstract
Frequency-dependent avoidance movement of glass catfish in response to sinusoidal electrical stimulation and associated spiking patterns of electroreceptors
Authors: Adachi Yu , Tateno Katsumi
Published: July 2023

The glass catfish is a freshwater fish with electroreceptors on its body surface. In this study, we investigated its behavioral response to sinusoidal electrical stimulation with a dipole wider than its body length and the spiking patterns of its electroreceptors. We observed that sinusoidal electric stimulation with a large dipole distance elicited in the glass catfish an avoidance movement whose frequency range is frequency-dependent. The movements were prominent in the frequency range between 10–20 Hz. When the stimulation strength increased, the movements were also found in the low-frequency range. In electrophysiological experiments, periodic interspike intervals of the electroreceptors were modulated by sinusoidal electrical stimuli. The stimulation introduced irregularity in the spiking patterns. The local variability of the spike modulations was significantly higher in the frequency range of 4–40 Hz and was particularly sensitive at 20 Hz. The avoidance movements and an increase in the local variability in the spike patterns were found around 20 Hz. Our results indicate that the glass catfish avoids sinusoidal electrical stimulation in a frequency-dependent manner, and this is associated with local modulations in the spiking patterns of the electroreceptors.
FRS2-independent GRB2 interaction with FGFR2 is not required for embryonic development
Authors: Clark James F. , Soriano Philippe
Published: July 2023

FGF activation is known to engage canonical signals, including ERK/MAPK and PI3K/AKT, through various effectors including FRS2 and GRB2. Fgfr2FCPG/FCPG mutants that abrogate canonical intracellular signaling exhibit a range of mild phenotypes but are viable, in contrast to embryonic lethal Fgfr2−/− mutants. GRB2 has been reported to interact with FGFR2 through a non-traditional mechanism, by binding to the C-terminus of FGFR2 independently of FRS2 recruitment. To investigate whether this interaction provides functionality beyond canonical signaling, we generated mutant mice harboring a C-terminal truncation (T). We found that Fgfr2T/T mice are viable and have no distinguishable phenotype, indicating that GRB2 binding to the C-terminal end of FGFR2 is not required for development or adult homeostasis. We further introduced the T mutation on the sensitized FCPG background but found that Fgfr2FCPGT/FCPGT mutants did not exhibit significantly more severe phenotypes. We therefore conclude that, although GRB2 can bind to FGFR2 independently of FRS2, this binding does not have a critical role in development or homeostasis.
Postural fall in systolic blood pressure is a useful warning sign in dengue fever
Authors: Mahabala Chakrapani , Boloor Archith , Upadhya Sushmita , Nimmagadda Satya Sudish , Lakshmikeshava Tejaswini , Anand Raghav
Published: July 2023

Background: Capillary leak is the hallmark of development of severe dengue. A rise in haematocrit has been a major warning sign in WHO guidelines. Postural hypotension, which could reflect the intravascular volume reduction in capillary leak has been noted as warning sign in CDC and Pan American Health Organisation guidelines. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of postural hypotension as a marker of development of severe dengue.

Methods: 150 patients admitted with dengue fever were recruited in this prospective observational study. Diagnostic accuracy of conventional warning signs (abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fluid accumulation, mucosal bleeding, lethargy, liver enlargement, increasing hematocrit with decreasing platelets) and postural hypotension was evaluated.

Results: 23 (15.3%) subjects developed severe dengue. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that ascites/pleural effusion and postural fall in systolic blood pressure of >10.33% had odds ratio of 5.024(95%CI:1.11 – 22.75) and 11.369 (95% CI:2.27 – 56.87), respectively. Other parameters did not reach statistical significance. Sensitivity and specificity of ascites/pleural effusion were 82.6% and 88.2% for development of severe dengue whereas postural fall in systolic blood pressure had sensitivity and specificity of 87% and 82.7%.

Conclusions: These findings present a strong case for including postural hypotension as a warning sign in patients with dengue fever, especially in resource limited settings.
Investigating the link between frontal sinus morphology and craniofacial characteristics with sex: A 3D CBCT study on the South Indian population
Authors: Denny Ceena , Bhoraskar Mohana , Abdul Aziz Shaikh Sabiha , T S Bastian , Sujir Nanditha , Natarajan Srikant
Published: July 2023

Background: Measurement of craniofacial parameters plays an important role in sex determination in forensic science. The present study was done using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans to evaluate the morphologic structure of the frontal sinuses and compare it with the width of nasal, cranial, maxillary and mandibular width which might help us in sex determination.

Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted using 142 full field of view (FOV) scans of patients archived from the department. The width of the nose, cranium, maxilla, and mandibular width was measured and compared with the frontal sinus between the two sexes.

Results: A paired t-test was done to compare the linear measurements for both sexes' right and left frontal sinuses. The measurements were higher in males when compared to females. There was a statistically significant asymmetry (larger dimension on the left side) of the anterioposterior (p-value of 0.012) and superior-inferior dimensions in males (p-value of 0.135). Spearman's correlation showed that frontal sinus correlated with other craniofacial parameters like nasal, cranial, maxillary and mandibular width among both sexes. The frontal sinus, nasal, cranial, maxillary and mandibular widths were higher in males when compared to females (independent t-test). Discriminant function scores showed 66-68% accuracy to discriminate sex, using the anteroposterior dimension and mandibular width.

Conclusions: The measurement of craniofacial parameters using CBCT can aid in determining the sex of unidentified and decomposed bodies.
Attrition of methylnaltrexone treatment-emergent adverse events in patients with chronic noncancer pain and opioid-induced constipation: a post hoc pooled analysis of two clinical trials
Authors: Mehta Neel , Slatkin Neal E. , Israel Robert J. , Stambler Nancy
Published: July 2023

Background: Opioids prescribed for the management of chronic noncancer pain are associated with nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Methylnaltrexone, a peripherally acting µ-opioid receptor antagonist, has demonstrated robust efficacy and was well-tolerated in treating opioid-induced constipation without affecting central analgesia. Our objective was to assess changes in the frequency of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) after the first or second dose of methylnaltrexone or placebo.

Methods: This post hoc analysis pooled data from two randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials assessing methylnaltrexone for opioid-induced constipation in the outpatient setting. Patients received subcutaneous methylnaltrexone (12 mg once daily or 12 mg once every other day), oral methylnaltrexone (150, 300, or 450 mg daily), or placebo. TEAEs, opioid withdrawal symptoms, pain intensity, and rescue-free bowel movements (RFBMs) within 4 hours of the first dose (i.e., RFBM responders) were assessed. Associations between TEAE frequencies and RFBM response were also evaluated.

Results: The analysis included 1263 adult patients with chronic noncancer pain. TEAE rates declined from treatment day 1 to 2 (methylnaltrexone: 16.2%–5.3%; placebo: 6.6%−5.4%). Among methylnaltrexone-treated patients, significantly greater proportions of RFBM responders versus nonresponders reported gastrointestinal TEAEs on day 1. No associations between RFBM response and the frequency of TEAEs were observed in the placebo group. No meaningful changes in opioid withdrawal symptoms or pain intensity were observed.

Conclusions: Early-onset TEAEs following methylnaltrexone treatment, particularly gastrointestinal TEAEs, are at least partially due to laxation. Methylnaltrexone treatment effectively relieves opioid-induced constipation without affecting the central analgesic effects of opioids.
Characterizing antibody responses to mosquito salivary antigens of the Southeast Asian vectors of malaria and dengue with a human challenge model of controlled exposure: a protocol
Authors: Sawasdichai Sunisa , Chaumeau Victor , Kearney Ellen , Wasisakun Praphan , Simpson Julie A. , Price David J. , Chotirat Sadudee , Rénia Laurent , Bergmann-Leitner Elke , Fowkes Freya , Nosten François
Published: July 2023

Background: Measurement of antibody titers directed against mosquito salivary antigens in blood samples has been proposed as an outcome measure to assess human exposure to vector bites. However, only a handful of antigens have been identified and the specificity and longitudinal dynamics of antibody responses are not well known. We report the protocol of a clinical trial of controlled exposure to mosquito bites that aims to identify and validate biomarkers of exposure to bites of mosquito vector species that transmit malaria and dengue in Southeast Asia and some other parts of the world.

Methods: This study is an exploratory factorial randomized control trial of controlled exposure to mosquito bites with 10 arms corresponding to different species (Aedes aegypti, Ae. albopictus, Anopheles dirus, An. maculatus and An. minimus) and numbers of bites (35 or 305 bites in total over 6 weeks). Blood samples will be collected from study participants before, during and after mosquito biting challenges. Candidate peptides will be identified from published literature with antigen prediction algorithms using mosquito DNA sequence data and with immunoblotting assays carried out using protein extracts of dissected mosquito salivary glands and participants samples. Antibody titers against candidate peptides will be determined in participants samples with high-throughput cutting-edge immuno-assays. Quantification of the antibody response profile over time (including an estimate of the decay rate) and the effect of the number of bites on the antibody response will be determined using linear and logistic mixed-effects models for the continuous and the binary response, respectively.

Conclusion: This research is expected to generate important knowledge for vector sero-surveillance and evaluation of vector-control interventions against malaria and dengue in the Greater Mekong Subregion.

Registration: This study is registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04478370) on July 20th, 2020.
A construção da práxis pedagógica de Anni Albers no ensino de arte e design: da Bauhaus ao Black Mountain College
Authors: Carvalho João Victor Brito dos Santos , Kanamaru Antonio Takao
Published: July 2023

Este artigo tem como objetivo realizar uma leitura crítica acerca da práxis pedagógica de Anni Albers durante os períodos em que lecionou na Bauhaus, no Black Mountain College, e de forma autônoma como professora particular. Para isso, foca em debater a construção gradual de sua pedagogia a partir de rupturas com pedagogias tradicionais no ensino da arte e do design, às quais ela fora exposta anteriormente, e da influência das culturas pré-colombianas, frequentemente referenciadas em sua prática projetual, nesse processo. O texto articula reflexões sobre tais práticas a conhecimentos sobre o próprio processo de ensino-aprendizagem e sua interferência na realidade sócio-histórico-cultural, tais como se apresentam na práxis de Albers.
DESERTIFICAÇÃO E DINÂMICA DA COBERTURA VEGETAL: conhecimentos acumulados e desafios vigentes
Authors: Souza Bartolomeu Israel
Published: July 2023

Desertificação é um tipo de degradação intensa passível de ocorrer em zonas de clima seco. Este trabalho teve o objetivo de fazer um levantamento sobre o estado da arte até o momento existente sobre essa questão ambiental, destacando como ela tem se processado especialmente no bioma Caatinga, a partir das relações dinâmicas entre a vegetação, os solos e a forma como esses recursos são utilizados pela população. A metodologia foi baseada na análise de diversos trabalhos científicos, considerados os mais relevantes pelo autor da pesquisa. Os resultados identificaram que a desertificação é o resultado, em parte, da falta de conhecimento de formas sustentáveis de usos dos recursos naturais, passando por questões relacionadas às demandas nacional e mundial por determinadas commodities, assim como a diversos problemas das estruturas sociais e econômicas históricas ainda hoje persistentes entre os habitantes da Caatinga, agravados por intervenções governamentais que, no geral, tem intensificado muitos efeitos ambientais negativos, com possibilidade de piora dessa situação, em virtude das mudanças climáticas previstas. Como solução, recomenda-se a elevação do investimento em Ciência para melhorar a compreensão do funcionamento desse bioma, subsidiando as formas de intervenção nessas terras, e de um amplo debate político nacional entre os gestores e a sociedade civil organizada, capaz de trazer resultados positivos e sustentáveis de uso dos recursos naturais para essa parte do país.
A Study on Multicultural Mothers’ Comprehension and Satisfaction with Language Screening Test Applications by Type of Information Provision
Authors: Lee Eun Jin , Jeon Ji-Hye , Hong Ki-Hyung , Kim Young Tae
Published: July 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to find out whether there is a significant difference in comprehension and satisfaction with language screening test application according to the information provision type (text, video). Methods: This study examined the difference in comprehension and satisfaction with Language Screening test Applications according to the type of information provision for 20 Vietnamese mothers (10 in the text group and 10 in the video group) who have lived in Korea for more than 5 years, and raised children in pre-school age. Results: First, there was no statistically significant difference in the interaction between the information provision type and the pre- and post-evaluation, but there was a statistically significant difference in the pre- and post-comprehension and satisfaction according to the type of information provision. Second, as a result of the pre-post-statistics of the subcategory of the comprehension questionnaire, the text group showed significant differences in 2 out of 6 categories and the video group in 5 out of 6 categories. Third, as a result of the pre-post-statistics of the subcategory of the satisfaction questionnaire, the text group showed significant differences in 4 out of 5 categories and the video group in 4 out of 5 categories. Conclusion: It was found that the type of information provision had a positive effect on comprehension and satisfaction. Furthermore, this study suggests that by increasing the accessibility of the screening test application, the possibility of early screening and early intervention for children from multicultural families can be increased.
Text Comprehension of Korean 3rd to 4th Graders of Typical Development and with Developmental Dyslexia Considering Semantic Knowledge
Authors: Lee Cho Young , Kim Sodam , Won Hyoeun , Pae Soyeong
Published: July 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to examine text comprehension ability according to text comprehension modes and question types for typical developing (TD), developmental dyslexic without poor semantic knowledge (DD), and developmental dyslexic with poor semantic knowledge (DD-PS) groups in 3rd to 4th graders. Methods: Thirty-nine children participated, with 13 children in each group. To assess text comprehensive ability; narrative text with topics familiar to 3rd and 4th graders were provided at a decodable level for students with dyslexia. Text comprehension ability was examined according to text comprehension modes (oral reading, silent reading, listening) and question types (literal informative, inferential informative). Results: In the groups, there were no significant differences between TD and DD, but DD-PS showed lower performance than TD. In the text comprehension modes, oral reading resulted in a higher performance than silent reading and listening. According to the groups and question types, TD and DD-PS showed significant differences in literal informative questions. However, in inferential informative questions, all the groups showed significant differences. Conclusion: These results showed the possibility that developmental dyslexic children may have similar performance to typical developing children in literal informative questions if they are provided decodable and controlled texts. It seems that dyslexic children are in need of linguistic support as well as literacy support. Lastly, the importance of oral reading extends to 3rd and 4th graders with difficulty in reading as it aids in the efficient use of limited cognitive resources not only for reading but also for comprehending inferring information.
Predicting Reading Fluency Groups Using Decision Trees in 6-Year-Old Children: Focusing on Language, Early Literacy, Speech Sound Ability, Gender, Age, and SES
Authors: Lee Eun Ju
Published: July 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the level of Korean reading fluency and individual variables related to reading in children before the age of 6, and whether it is useful for the model to which individual variables are applied to predict the level of reading fluency. Methods: In this study, 343 6-year-old subjects of PSKC (Panel Study on Korean Children) in this study, DTA was conducted using the CHAID algorithm. Results: As a result of examining individual variables for general (gender, monthly age), SES, speech, and cognitive language measurement variables (level of speech sound disorder, word error index in sentence repetition), academic and cognitive skill (language and literacy, attention deficit); the measurement variables showed significant differences depending on the reading fluency group. In addition, seven variables significantly affected reading fluency (Reads first-grade books independently when evaluated by a mother, age, gender, word error index in sentence repetition, level of speech sound disorder, and reading all the consonants and vowels of Hangul when evaluated by a homeroom teacher, making rhyme words when evaluated by a homeroom teacher). Conclusion: The reading fluency DTA model can be applied as a model for selecting subjects who need additional reading guidance by classifying the reading fluency of those who are scheduled to enter elementary school. In addition to reading and phonological recognition of children’s individual and environmental factors already known in previous studies; the maternal educational level, gender, and age, consonants & vowels, reading ability, and word error index in sentence repetition were included.
Evaluation of a new method for metal artifact reducing in computed tomographic images
Authors:   Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand., Oonsiri Sornjarod , Krisanachinda Anchali ,   Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand., Auethavekiat Supatana ,   Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand., Kanongchaiyos Pizzanu ,   Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand., Sutton David ,   Medical Physics, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Ninewells Avenue, Dundee, UK.
Published: July 2023

Background: The common streak artifacts in computed tomographic (CT) images result from metal implants in patients. Metal artifact suppresses and obstructs diagnosis or misdiagnoses as it occurred in ten percent of the patients’ tomographic images. Objectives: To develop the method for metal artifact reduction in CT images using MATLAB software and implement it in phantoms with the metal artifact as well as in patients with the metal artifact in the head and neck region. Materials and methods: The new method of metal artifact reduction in CT images using MATLAB software. The homogeneous polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) phantom, the Alderson Rando phantom, and patients with a metal implant in the head and neck region were scanned by the Philips Brilliance Big Bore CT system. Commercial orthopedic metal artifact reduction (OMAR) software and a new method software were applied to the CT images of phantoms and patients. The quantitative analysis of image quality on a metal artifact of the head and neck region was evaluated in the percent noise. The qualitative analysis in clinical imaging was evaluated in scoring by two radiologists with the same experience. Results: In the Alderson Rando phantom, the new algorithm indicated higher efficiency in metal artifact reduction than OMAR software. In contrast, for the patient at head and neck CT images with metal artifact reduction, OMAR, and the new method showed comparable results. The new method suppressed the artifact in homogeneous PMMA, Alderson Rando phantoms, and patients with a metal implant in the head and neck region with approximately 40%, 40%, and 60% percentage of noise reduction, respectively. The qualitative analysis by two radiologists showed comparable results of OMAR and the new method. Conclusion: The efficiency of metal artifact reduction of the new method is better than no correction and OMAR in homogeneous PMMA phantom and Alderson Rando phantom. However, the efficiency of OMAR is better than the new method, and no correction regarding the percent noise.
PERIFERIZAÇÃO SOCIOESPACIAL EM SALVADOR: ANÁLISE DO CABULA, UMA ÁREA REPRESENTATIVA
Authors: Braga Fernandes Rosali
Published: July 2023

Tratamos do processo de expulsão residencial dos pobres, dos centros urbanos para áreas distantes, ocorrido em Salvador e em outras grandes cidades do mundo subdesenvolvido. Destacamos a periferização num contexto amplo até chegarmos a Salvador onde o processo, iniciado em 1950, se concretiza, primordialmente, no miolo da cidade. Nessa área efetuamos um reconhecimento empírico e escolhemos o Cabula, por considerá-lo o bairro mais representativo, e com o objetivo de realizar uma análise mais detalhada.
PAPEL DO PROFESSOR NA SOCIEDADE CONTEMPORÂNEA
Authors: Hyang Park Kil
Published: July 2023

Qualquer reflexão sobre a teoria ou a prática de ensinoimplica considerar a questão do aprendizado tendo em vista sua extensãoe importância na dinâmica da vida social. Na nossa experiênciaacadêmica com alunos de terceiro grau, uma expectativa sempre presenteé da expectativa do saber legitimado pela instituição de ensino. Emfunção desse saber legitimado e da expectativa de seu alcance é quesomos procurados. Aliado a isso, um questionamento sincero do papel doprofessor na sociedade contemporânea, com suas dificuldades e frustrações,pode facilitar o desenvolvimento do trabalho analítico conjuntovisando aumentar a capacidade do aluno para aprender.
REFLEXOS DA GLOBALIZAÇÃO: UMAANÁLISE DAS FORMAS DE INSERÇÃO NO MERCADO INTERNACIONAL
Authors: Lúcia Vasconcelos Yumara
Published: July 2023

As mudanças globais, seja de ordem tecnológica ou organizacional, têmcomo principais conseqüências a interferência nos padrões de competitividade,a desregulamentação e a redução progressiva das fronteiras nacionais.A vantagem competitiva depende da maneira como as empresas organizamestrategicamente suas atividades, especialmente quando competem emnível internacional porque a estrutura do negócio influencia sua rentabilidade.A pesquisa de que trata o presente ensaio ocupou-se das questões: De queforma a competição globalizada tem influenciado o desempenho estratégicoe atuação das organizações? As empresas conseguem identificar a aproveitaras oportunidades oriundas de uma economia internacional cada vez maisintegrada? Estas oportunidades existem? Quais as conseqüências daglobalização? Se, de um lado, a globalização fortalece relações, incrementaa produtividade e os padrões de competitividade, de outro, gera exclusãoinvoluntária. Como reflexo, o sistema produtivo tem sido induzido a umaconstante reestruturação tecnológica, provocando rupturas continuadasde paradigmas técnico-científicos.
ARRANJOS PRODUTIVOS LOCAIS COMO ESTRATÉGIA PARA O DESENVOLVIMENTO LOCAL: O CASO DE MARACÁS
Authors: Maria Cerqueira da Silva Mattos Sandra
Published: July 2023

O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar os arranjos produtivoscomo uma nova estratégia de gestão voltada para o desenvolvimentolocal. Partimos do pressuposto que a descentralização, ao permitir maiorautonomia aos municípios, abriu espaço para formas inovadoras de gestão,inclusive na escala supramunicipal. A partir da promulgação da ConstituiçãoFederal Brasileira de 1988, houve uma reconfiguração da arena decisória,concedendo maior autonomia política, administrativa e financeira aosmunicípios. Esses, por sua vez, passaram a representar um ente federadono conjunto da organização política e territorial do Estado, inclusivecom capacidade de auto-organização, decidindo sobre estratégias institucionaisem favor do desenvolvimento socioeconômico local, promovendo, ainda,a inclusão de novas escalas de gestão. Todo esse movimento ocorre numcontexto marcado pela incerteza, pelo aumento da concorrência nosmercados e pelas reformas institucionais que apontam para alteraçõesno trâmite decisório local. Assim, o artigo pretende provocar reflexõesacerca do desenvolvimento local, tendo como base a produção de floresno município de Maracás (Bahia).
CIDADES “ILEGÍVEIS” E A LEITURA DOS POETAS CONTEMPORÂNEOS
Authors: Fonseca Aleilton
Published: July 2023

As metrópoles contemporâneas se confundem com a imagemmítica de Babel. Diante da cidade em constante movimentação, os acenosda poesia não viriam mais da recordação e do apelo anímico pessoal,mas dos ruídos da rua, como matéria viva captada sobretudo pelo olhar.Este artigo aborda aspectos dessa questão, demonstrando como a cidade“ilegível” é o grande desafio para o poeta contemporâneo, que, paradoxalmente,tenta traduzir e reinscrever sua condição lírica atravésde palavras e imagens urbanas.
BÉLGICA EM FOCO
Authors: Scheinowitz Celina
Published: July 2023

Objetivando fornecer dados para uma maior compreensãoda Bélgica, país em que se instituiu há alguns anos o federalismo, quepermite a cada grupo cultural afirmar sua identidade e cuidar de seusinteresses públicos, analisam-se três livros: Les racines de la Belgique,de Jean Stengers (2000), Belgique requiem, de René Swennen (1999) eAlbert et Élisabeth de Belgique, da princesa Marie José (2000, novaedição) .
TUDO QUE EU NUNCA TE DISSE: O ESPAÇO DA INTIMIDADE EM CAIO F. E ANA C.
Authors: Leilla Állex
Published: July 2023

Estudo das particularidades da abordagem, poetização epolitização do mito do amor em trechos de cartas, narrativas de encontrose textos de Caio Fernando Abreu e Ana Cristina Cesar, através deum recorte dos escritos que melhor explicitaram as relações poéticasentre trajetória pessoal, olhar crítico e sociabilidade dos afetos.
FRASEAMENTO PROSÓDICO E PERCEPÇÃO NO PORTUGUÊS DO BRASIL: PARA O ESTUDO DOS ESTILOS DE FALA
Authors: Serra Carolina Ribeiro
Published: July 2023

Neste artigo, estuda-se o fraseamento prosódico no Portuguêsdo Brasil com dois objetivos principais: (1) relacionar os limitesdos constituintes prosódicos e a percepção (e produção) de rupturas nafala espontânea e na leitura e (2) descrever a pista mais relevante paraa percepção de fronteiras prosódicas em cada estilo de fala. Os resultadosindicam que as rupturas prosódicas são predominantemente percebidasem fronteira de sintagma entoacional (I), independentemente doestilo de fala (FE 91%; LE 99%). Entretanto, em LE, 64% das fronteirasde I foram percebidas como ruptura, enquanto em FE, somente 37% delasforam percebidas. A principal pista para a percepção de uma ruptura éa pausa, em todos os falantes e em ambos os estilos (92%), fator este quesozinho explica 87% dos resultados perceptivos, de acordo com o testeestatístico. Com este estudo pudemos concluir que LE e FE apresentama mesma gramática prosódica realizada pelos mesmos tipos de pistasfonéticas; todavia, estas são usadas de modo mais consistente em LE e demodo mais disperso em FE, contribuindo para a maior dificuldade napercepção sistemática de fronteiras prosódicas em FE relativamente aLE.