bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonspecific protection of heat-inactivated Mycobacterium bovis against Salmonella Choleraesuis infection in pigs
Authors: Vaz-Rodrigues Rita , Ferreras-Colino Elisa , Ugarte-Ruíz María , Pesciaroli Michele , Thomas Jobin , García-Seco Teresa , Sevilla Iker A. , Pérez-Sancho Marta , Mateo Rafael , Domínguez Lucas , Gortazar Christian , Risalde María A.
Published: April 2022

Trained immunity is the capacity of innate immune cells to produce an improved response against a secondary infection after a previous unrelated infection. Salmonellosis represents a public health issue and affects the pig farming industry. In general, vaccination against salmonellosis is still facing problems regarding the control of distinct serovars. Therefore, we hypothesized that an immunostimulant based on heat inactivated Mycobacterium bovis (HIMB) could have an immune training effect in pigs challenged with Salmonella enterica serovar Choleraesuis (S. Choleraesuis) and decided to explore the amplitude of this non-specific immune response. For this purpose, twenty-four 10 days-old female piglets were randomly separated in three groups: immunized group (n = 10) received orally two doses of HIMB prior to the intratracheal S. Choleraesuis-challenge, positive control group (n = 9) that was only challenged with S. Choleraesuis, and negative control group (n = 5) that was neither immunized nor infected. All individuals were necropsied 21 days post-challenge. HIMB improved weight gain and reduced respiratory symptoms and pulmonary lesions caused by S. Choleraesuis in pigs. Pigs immunized with HIMB showed higher cytokine production, especially of serum TNFα and lung CCL28, an important mediator of mucosal trained immunity. Moreover, immunized pigs showed lower levels of the biomarker of lipid oxidation malondialdehyde and higher activity of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase than untreated challenged pigs. However, the excretion and tissue colonization of S. Choleraesuis remained unaffected. This proof-of-concept study suggests beneficial clinical, pathological, and heterologous immunological effects against bacterial pathogens within the concept of trained immunity, opening avenues for further research.
Mesenchymal stromal/stem cell therapy for radiation-induced salivary gland hypofunction in animal models: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jansson Per Marcus , Lynggaard Charlotte Duch , Carlander Amanda Fenger , Jensen Siri Beier , Follin Bjarke , Hoeeg Cecilie , Kousholt Birgitte Saima , Larsen Rasmus Tolstrup , Grønhøj Christian , Jakobsen Kathrine Kronberg , Rimborg Susie , Fischer-Nielsen Anne , Menon Julia M. L. , von Buchwald Christian
Published: April 2022

Background

Salivary gland (SG) hypofunction (objectively reduced saliva flow rate) and xerostomia (subjective sensation of dry mouth) are common and burdensome side effects of radiotherapy to the head and neck region. Currently, only sparse symptomatic treatment is available to ease the discomfort of xerostomia. The objective of this study is to assess the effect of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy on SG function after radiation-induced injury.

Methods

This systematic review will include animal intervention studies assessing efficacy and safety of MSCs in treating radiation-induced SG hypofunction. The primary outcome is the effect of MSC administration on salivary flow rates (SFR), by comparing treated groups to control groups when available. Secondary outcomes are morphological and immunohistochemical effects as well as safety of MSC treatment. Electronic searches in MEDLINE (PubMed) and Embase databases will be constructed and validated according to the peer review of electronic search strategies (PRESS) and assessed by two independent researchers. Data from eligible studies will be extracted, pooled, and analyzed using random-effects models. Risk of bias will be evaluated with the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) risk of bias tool.

Discussion

Thus far, critical appraisal of MSC therapy as an effective treatment for SG hypofunction caused solely by radiation injury has not been conducted. A summary of the existing literature on preclinical studies concerning this issue can provide valuable information about effectiveness, mode of action, and safety, allowing further optimization of preclinical and clinical trials.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42021227336
Quadruple fixed-point techniques for solving integral equations involved with matrices and the Markov process in generalized metric spaces
Authors: Hammad Hasanen A. , Abdeljawad Thabet
Published: April 2022

The goal of this manuscript is to establish quadruple fixed-point and coincidence-point consequences in the setting of generalized metric spaces equipped with vector-valued metrics and matrix equations. Moreover, some supportive examples and corollaries are presented here to support the theoretical results. Ultimately, the theoretical results are presented here to discuss some applications to support our study.
Existence and stability results for nonlocal boundary value problems of fractional order
Authors: Ertürk Vedat Suat , Ali Amjad , Shah Kamal , Kumar Pushpendra , Abdeljawad Thabet
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we prove the existence and uniqueness of solutions for the nonlocal boundary value problem (BVP) using Caputo fractional derivative (CFD). We derive Green’s function and give some estimation for it to derive our main results. The main principles applied to investigate our results are based on the Banach contraction fixed point theorem and Schauder fixed point approach. We dwell in detail on some results concerning the Hyers-Ulam (H-U) type and generalized H-U (g-H-U) type stability also for problem we are considering. We justify our results with an illustrative example.
Investigation of a time-fractional COVID-19 mathematical model with singular kernel
Authors: Adnan  , Ali Amir , ur Rahmamn Mati , Shah Zahir , Kumam Poom
Published: April 2022

We investigate the fractional dynamics of a coronavirus mathematical model under a Caputo derivative. The Laplace–Adomian decomposition and Homotopy perturbation techniques are applied to attain the approximate series solutions of the considered system. The existence and uniqueness solution of the system are presented by using the Banach fixed-point theorem. Ulam–Hyers-type stability is investigated for the proposed model. The obtained approximations are compared with numerical simulations of the proposed model as well as associated real data for numerous fractional-orders. The results reveal a good comparison between the numerical simulations versus approximations of the considered model. Further, one can see good agreements are obtained as compared to the classical integer order.
Complete controllability of nonlinear fractional neutral functional differential equations
Authors: Wen Yanhua , Xi Xuan-Xuan
Published: April 2022

This paper is concerned with the complete controllability of a nonlinear fractional neutral functional differential equation. Some sufficient conditions are established for the complete controllability of the nonlinear fractional system. The conditions are established based on the fractional power of operators and the fixed-point theorem under the assumption that the associated linear system is completely controllable. Finally, an example is presented to illustrate our main result.
Stakeholder interdependencies in a collaborative innovation project
Authors: Khan Iqra Sadaf , Kauppila Osmo , Fatima Noureen , Majava Jukka
Published: April 2022

Industry 4.0—also known as the modern industrial revolution—nurtures close collaboration between various organizations so that they can come together for innovation. While aiming for digital transformation through such innovation, these organizations form certain interdependencies due to the pool of resources and tasks they agree to share to reach both common and independent goals. To understand those interdependencies, we studied a national innovation project in Finland called “Reboot IoT Factory,” which leveraged several resources, processes, and practices to successfully combine modern technologies in manufacturing in a competitive and sustainable way. The participants included in the project were factories, research organizations, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). An actor dependency model was used to analyze the observed interdependencies through survey and interview data. The results showed strong goal, task, and resource dependencies between the participants. A conventional understanding of advantages and opportunities, such as increased experience sharing and possible long-term synergies, is elaborated; moreover, an analysis of the disadvantages and risks caused by interdependencies, such as delays in tasks and possible inefficiency through unnecessary complexity, is also conducted.
Effect of Silica Fume on the Volume Expansion of Metakaolin-Based Geopolymer Considering the Silicon-to-Aluminum Molar Ratio
Authors: Park Sungwoo , Yu Juan , Oh Jae Eun , Pyo Sukhoon
Published: April 2022

This paper investigates the effect of silica fume on the mechanical properties of metakaolin-based geopolymers with different silicon-to-aluminum molar (S/A) ratios. Geopolymer has been extensively studied as an alternative to traditional cementitious material because of its low CO2 emissions. Previous studies revealed that the application of silica fume can improve the compressive strength of geopolymer, however, the optimum dosages are different. To examine the reason for the different optimum dosages of silica fume, this study prepares geopolymer specimens of which variables are the S/A ratio and silica fume dosage, and conducts compressive strength and initial setting time tests. To examine whether the strength degradation is caused by the expansion due to the added silica fume in geopolymer, the volume and dynamic modulus are also measured. The results show that a part of silica fume dissolves and changes the S/A ratio of geopolymer, and that a part of silica fume remains in the geopolymer matrix. These combined effects of silica fume result in an irregular compressive strength trend, and, thus, an optimum dosage of silica fume can vary depending on the S/A ratio. Furthermore, the volume expansion of geopolymer with silica fume is observed, however, no sign of damage on the compressive strength is found.
Carbendazim shapes microbiome and enhances resistome in the earthworm gut
Authors: Song Jiajin , Li Tongxin , Zheng Zhiruo , Fu Wenjie , Long Zhengnan , Shi Nan , Han Yuling , Zhang Luqing , Yu Yunlong , Fang Hua
Published: April 2022

Background

It is worrisome that several pollutants can enhance the abundance of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment, including agricultural fungicides. As an important bioindicator for environmental risk assessment, earthworm is still a neglected focus that the effects of the fungicide carbendazim (CBD) residues on the gut microbiome and resistome are largely unknown. In this study,Eisenia fetidawas selected to investigate the effects of CBD in the soil-earthworm systems using shotgun metagenomics and qPCR methods.

Results

CBD could significantly perturb bacterial community and enrich specific bacteria mainly belonging to the phylum Actinobacteria. More importantly, CBD could serve as a co-selective agent to elevate the abundance and diversity of ARGs, particularly for some specific types (e.g., multidrug, glycopeptide, tetracycline, and rifamycin resistance genes) in the earthworm gut. Additionally, host tracking analysis suggested that ARGs were mainly carried in some genera of the phyla Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria. Meanwhile, the level of ARGs was positively relevant to the abundance of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) and some representative co-occurrence patterns of ARGs and MGEs (e.g.,cmx-transposase andsul1-integrase) were further found on the metagenome-assembled contigs in the CBD treatments.

Conclusions

It can be concluded that the enhancement effect of CBD on the resistome in the earthworm gut may be attributed to its stress on the gut microbiome and facilitation on the ARGs dissemination mediated by MGEs, which may provide a novel insight into the neglected ecotoxicological risk of the widely used agrochemicals on the gut resistome of earthworm dwelling in soil.

Graphical Abstract
Prompt and precise identification of various sources of infection in response to the prevention of malaria re-establishment in China
Authors: Yin Jianhai , Yan He , Li Mei
Published: April 2022

Prompt and precise diagnosis of patients is an essential component of malaria control and elimination strategies, it is even more vital for the prevention of malaria re-establishment in the post elimination phase. After eliminating malaria in China, the strategy for prevention of malaria re-establishment was updated in a timely manner from the elimination strategy focusing on each case/focus to the prevention of re-establishment focusing on timely identification of the source of infection. However, there are numerous challenges, such as the persistent large number of imported malaria cases, the long-term threat of border malaria, unknown levels of asymptomatic infections and Plasmodium falciparum HRP2/3 gene deletions, and the continuous spreading of antimalarial drug resistance. Meanwhile, the detection capacity also need to be further improved to meet the timely detection of all sources of infection, otherwise it is bound to occur introduced malaria cases and malaria re-establishment in the presence of malaria vector mosquitoes. Therefore, it is necessary to continuously strengthen the malaria detection competency at all levels, promote the research and development on the malaria parasitological testing technologies, thus improving the timely detection of various sources of infection, and preventing the re-establishment of malaria.

Graphical abstract
Sintilimab for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Lin , Lin Weihao , Tan Fengwei , Li Ning , Xue Qi , Gao Shugeng , Gao Yibo , He Jie
Published: April 2022

Anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) immunotherapy has dramatically changed the therapeutic landscape of inoperable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and has been included in first-line treatments. Sintilimab is a domestic anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody in China that has received approvals from the National Medical Products Administration to treat classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and squamous and non-squamous NSCLC. In a prospective clinical study we led, neoadjuvant sintilimab has led to major and complete pathologic responses, which are recommended as surrogate endpoints for neoadjuvant immunotherapy; however, its effect remains inconclusive in pulmonary ground glass nodules. Meanwhile, combination plans seem more likely to be satisfying therapeutic options. Specifically, sintilimab plus platinum-based chemotherapy plans conferred better anti-tumor efficacy and clinical benefits compared to chemotherapy alone, which led to their approval in China and the acceptance of a biological license application in the US. Besides, the combination with other plans, such as docetaxel, cytokine-induced killer cell immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and anlotinib have also shown promising anti-tumor efficacy, with acceptable toxicities, and are therefore worth further exploration. In addition, several clinical trials on NSCLC at our center are ongoing. In general, sintilimab and its combinatorial plans were effective and well tolerated, but the treatment requires appropriate timing; pathologic responses can be surrogate endpoints for neoadjuvant immunotherapy, while more effective biomarkers are warranted. This study provides an overview of sintilimab-based clinical trials on NSCLC, and may support further investigation of sintilimab in future clinical trials.
Imaging diagnosis and treatment selection for brain tumors in the era of molecular therapeutics
Authors: Vagvala Saivenkat , Guenette Jeffrey P. , Jaimes Camilo , Huang Raymond Y.
Published: April 2022

Currently, most CNS tumors require tissue sampling to discern their molecular/genomic landscape. However, growing research has shown the powerful role imaging can play in non-invasively and accurately detecting the molecular signature of these tumors. The overarching theme of this review article is to provide neuroradiologists and neurooncologists with a framework of several important molecular markers, their associated imaging features and the accuracy of those features. A particular emphasis is placed on those tumors and mutations that have specific or promising imaging correlates as well as their respective therapeutic potentials.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Blended Physical Literacy Intervention to Support Physical Activity and Health of Primary School Children
Authors: Li Ming Hui , Rudd James , Chow Jia Yi , Sit Cindy Hui Ping , Wong Stephen Heung Sang , Sum Raymond Kim Wai
Published: April 2022

Background

The concept of physical literacy (PL) has been advocated as the need to create environments fostering sustainable engagement in PA. This study adopted ecological approach to evaluate the effectiveness of a blended PL intervention embedded into the school day to support children’s PA and health.

Method

Designed as a three-arm randomized controlled trial, a total of 79 participants (59.5% girls) were randomly assigned to: the “Quantity + Quality” blended PL group combining sit–stand desks and play-based recess (SSPlay), the “Quality” group with play-based recess only (Play) or the control group. The intervention lasted for 13 weeks, and all the variables were collected at baseline, post-intervention and 3-month follow-up.

Results

SSPlay and Play group significantly improved on two of the embodied PL domains, Physical Competence (− 2.96 vs − 5.15, p < 0.05) and Knowledge and Understanding (− 2.35 vs − 2.00, p < 0.05), total errors of cognitive flexibility (24.00 vs 12.92, p < 0.05), and this difference was maintained at follow-up (p < 0.05). Whilst there was no interaction effect between groups, and time effects were found for PA and planning from baseline to post-intervention.

Conclusion

This was the first to adopt an ecological approach as an innovative strategy to provide the emergence of PA for children in Hong Kong. The blended intervention design that embedded both quantity and quality of PA into children’s school day has shown promise in supporting children’s all round development. PL intervention where environments are designed to increase the “Quantity + Quality” of children’s everyday interactions has led to improvements in PA and health outcomes, which may provide insights for future studies to adopt cost-friendly and feasible measures for promoting children’s PA in the school settings.

Trial Registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR2000035038. Registered 29 July 2020—Retrospectively registered. http://www.chictr.org.cn/hvshowproject.aspx?id=46038.
Struggles for democracy: strategies and resources of initiatives for non-citizen voting rights at local levels in Europe
Authors: Sontag Katrin , Herzog Metka , Lässer Silva
Published: April 2022

This paper deals with non-citizen voting rights from the perspective of grassroots initiatives that campaign for more inclusive local voting rights for migrants. It looks at three initiatives in three European cities with a growing foreign population: in Basel (Switzerland), Brussels (Belgium), and Freiburg (Germany). All three initiatives address authorities with the need to increase options for migrant political participation at the local level, encourage political engagement, and raise awareness of the topic. The initiatives use different strategies, which include the performance and appropriation of rights in symbolic elections or parliamentary sessions. We interpret these activities as “acts of citizenship” and observe that these acts are not only responses to available political opportunity structures, but rather mobilize external and internal networks and invest considerable resources to make this kind of engagement possible in a specific “resource environment”.
Utilization of provider-initiated HIV testing and counselling in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Atlaw Daniel , Sahiledengle Biniyam , Degno Sisay , Mamo Ayele , Gudisa Zewudie , Zenbaba Demisu , Shiferaw Zerihun , Gezahegn Habtamu
Published: April 2022

Background

Provider-initiated HIV testing, and counseling (PITC) is a service in which health professionals provide HIV testing to all patients in health facilities. Provider-initiated HIV testing, and counseling is an important opportunity for early screening of individuals, and it is fundamental for both HIV treatment and prevention. Although there are studies conducted in different parts of Ethiopia, their findings are variable. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize the pooled utilization of PITC in Ethiopia.

Method

All studies conducted on utilization of provider-initiated HIV testing and counseling at outpatient departments (OPD), inpatient departments (IPD), antenatal clinic care (ANC), and tuberculosis (TB) clinics in Ethiopia are eligible for these meta-analyses. A systematic search of the literature was conducted by the authors to identify all relevant primary studies. The databases used to search for studies were PubMed, Science Direct, POPLINE, HENARI, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The extracted data were imported into STATA version 14 software for statistical analysis. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joana Briggs Institute (JBI) criteria for prevalence studies. The heterogeneity among all included studies was assessed by I2 statistics and the Cochran’s Q test. Pooled utilization along with its corresponding 95% CI was presented using a forest plot.

Result

About 1738 studies were retrieved from initial electronic searches using international databases and Google, and a total of 10,676 individual clients were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled utilization of PITC in Ethiopia using the random effects model was estimated to be 78.9% (95% CI 73.87–83.85) with a significant level of heterogeneity (I2 = 98.5%; P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis conducted on PITC showed the highest percentage among studies conducted in Addis Ababa (93.5%), while lower utilization was identified from a study conducted in the Tigray Region (35%).

Limitation of the study

The drawbacks of this review and meta-analysis were being reported with significant heterogeneity, and the protocol was not registered.

Conclusion

About 21% of health facility clients missed opportunities for PITC in Ethiopia.
Suspicious cold thyroid nodule with intense focal 68Ga-DOTATATE uptake: a case report
Authors: Manta Ringo , Delbart Wendy , Duran Derijckere Ivan , Quiriny Marie , Demetter Pieter , Flamen Patrick , Karfis Ioannis
Published: April 2022

A 51-year-old male was found with bilateral thyroid nodules on ultrasonography neck imaging. The largest nodule, measuring 23 × 26 × 35 mm, was located in the left lobe and was classified as EU-TIRADS 4. Thyroid function tests were normal, as were serum levels of parathormone, Chromogranin A, carcinoembryonic antigen and calcitonin. The nodule was cold on thyroid scintigraphy. Fine-needle aspiration of the nodule did not demonstrate cellular atypia. High focal uptake was found on both 111In-DTPA-octreotide scintigraphy and 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT. Histopathological analysis showed a microfollicular adenoma without malignancy. Immunohistochemical staining did not suggest neuroendocrine neoplasia or C cell hyperplasia. However, high expression of somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2) was observed in the microfollicular adenoma compared to the surrounding healthy tissue, with predominant localization in the endothelial cells and at the secretory pole of the thyroid epithelial cells in contact with blood vessels. High focal thyroid uptake on 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT can be observed in benign thyroid nodules due to an overexpression of SSTR by endothelial cells. However, incidental focal thyroid uptake on SSTR imaging requires further investigations to rule out thyroid malignancy.
Refractory portal hypertension complications successfully managed by parallel transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS): a case report
Authors: Weeratunga Senali , Nambiar Mithun , Handley Charles , Florescu Cosmin , Lyon Stuart M. , Le Suong , De Boo Diederick W.
Published: April 2022

Background

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an established intervention to treat complicated portal hypertension refractory to medical or endoscopic management. TIPS dysfunction results in the recurrence of portal hypertension symptoms. In cases of TIPS dysfunction or persistent portal hypertension despite a patent primary TIPS, the creation of parallel TIPS may be the only intervention to effectively reduce portal pressure. Since the introduction of dedicated TIPS stents (Viatorr®) the incidence of TIPS dysfunction has reduced profoundly. Nevertheless, the creation of a parallel TIPS can still be necessary in the current dedicated TIPS stent era.

Case presentation

We report one such patient who experienced ongoing portal hypertension induced upper gastro-intestinal haemorrhage despite multiple TIPS revisions and a patent primary TIPS.

Conclusion

Following creation of a parallel TIPS, the patient remains in clinical remission with no further bleeding.
E-government and logistical health services during Hajj season
Authors: Aljohani Alhanouf , Nejaim Shatha , Khayyat Mashael , Aboulola Omar
Published: April 2022

Background

Every year millions of Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia to perform the fifth pillar of Islam, the Hajj pilgrimage Aligned with the Kingdom's 2030 vision, the Ministry of Health works to provide advanced free medical services to pilgrims by implementing digital transformation. Hajj service providing companies are concerned with offering high-quality logistical services and removing obstacles that may face the pilgrims including those related to health and safety. In order to integrate healthcare applications with effectiveness, there is a need to have a unified electronic platform.

Results

This paper uses both primary and secondary data. The primary data collection has been done through an electronic survey and interviews with a number of employees working for Hajj and Umrah companies and an interview an employee in the health sector to support logistics health services. The secondary data have been collected through analyzing the official website of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that there is a lack of an integrating electronic interface of different applications that are provided by the companies involved and it is recommend that a unified medical database established as this could provide several benefits including informed decision-making, tracking of pilgrim’s health status, and increased user satisfaction.
Influence of mode of breathing on pharyngeal airway space and dento facial parameters in children: a short clinical study
Authors: Thribhuvanan Lakshmi , Saravanakumar M. S.
Published: April 2022

Background

Mouth breathing is considered as a mode of breathing modality that presents as a replacement to normal nasal breathing. This persistent pattern of mouth breathing have considerable influence on the development of dentofacial structures. This altered pattern of breathing have resulted in exhibiting considerable changes in pharyngeal airway space in children thereby hampering the child’s normal respiration which influences the developing occlusion in the child. Hundred subjects were selected following responses obtained from a provided questionnaire detailing the breathing modalities. They were divided into two groups of fifty each namely nasal breathers and mouth breathers and subjected to adequate clinical and cephalometric evaluation and their study casts were obtained for carrying out definitive conclusion. This study was undertaken to evaluate the influence of mouth breathing on dentofacial growth and pharyngeal airway space in children.

Results

The values showed positive correlation between mouth breathers with increase in palatal height (P < 0.05), narrowing of the intermolar width (P < 0.05), reduction in pharyngeal airway space (< 0.05) and subsequently an increased incidence of Class II malocclusion.

Conclusions

Mouth breathing have undeniable influence on the growth of pharyngeal airway space and associated dental and skeletal structures in children.
Characterization of suicidal depression: A 1 year prospective study
Authors: Nobile Bénédicte , Olié Emilie , Dubois Jonathan , Benramdane Myriam , Guillaume Sébastien , Courtet Philippe
Published: April 2022

Background

Suicidal ideation (SI) is an important risk factor of death by suicide. Recent data suggest that suicidal depression (i.e., moderate to severe depression with SI) could be a specific depression subtype with worse clinical outcomes than nonsuicidal depression (i.e., without SI).

Methods

Among 898 French adult inpatients (67% women, mean age: 41.23 [SD: 14.33]) with unipolar depression, 71.94% had moderate to severe depression (defined using the cut-offs of validated scales: beck depression inventory, clinician-rated 30-item inventory depression symptomatology, and quick inventory of depressive symptomatology) and among them, 63.6% had SI according to the suicidal item (score ≥ 2) of the depression scale they filled in. Clinical features (anxiety, psychological pain, and hopelessness) were assessed at baseline. The occurrence of a suicide attempt (SA) or a suicide event (SE) (i.e., actual, aborted or interrupted SA, or hospitalization for SI) was recorded during the 1-year follow-up. The risk of actual SA and SE was compared between groups with adjusted Cox regression models.

Results

The risk of actual SA and SE during the follow-up was 2- and 1.8-fold higher, respectively, in patients with suicidal depression, independently of potential cofounders such as history of lifetime SA, age, sex, and baseline depression severity.

Conclusions

Suicidal depression is associated with poorer prognosis in terms of actual SA/SE, despite optimal care (i.e., care in a hospital department specialized in the management of suicidal crisis). Specific therapeutic strategies might be needed for these patients.
Humoral Responses Against SARS-CoV-2 and Variants of Concern After mRNA Vaccines in Patients With Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Chang Andres , Akhtar Akil , Linderman Susanne L. , Lai Lilin , Orellana-Noia Victor M. , Valanparambil Rajesh , Ahmed Hasan , Zarnitsyna Veronika I. , McCook-Veal Ashley A. , Switchenko Jeffrey M. , Koff Jean L. , Blum Kristie A. , Ayers Amy A. , O'Leary Colin B. , Churnetski Michael C. , Sulaiman Shahana , Kives Melissa , Sheng Preston , Davis Carl W. , Nooka Ajay K. , Antia Rustom , Dhodapkar Madhav V. , Suthar Mehul S. , Cohen Jonathon B. , Ahmed Rafi
Published: April 2022

PURPOSE

Patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (NHL/CLL) are at higher risk of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. We investigated vaccine-induced antibody responses in patients with NHL/CLL against the original SARS-CoV-2 strain and variants of concern including B.1.167.2 (Delta) and B.1.1.529 (Omicron).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Blood from 121 patients with NHL/CLL receiving two doses of vaccine were collected longitudinally. Antibody binding against the full-length spike protein, the receptor-binding, and N-terminal domains of the original strain and of variants was measured using a multiplex assay. Live-virus neutralization against Delta, Omicron, and the early WA1/2020 strains was measured using a focus reduction neutralization test. B cells were measured by flow cytometry. Correlation between vaccine response and clinical factors was determined.

RESULTS

Mean anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike immunoglobulin G–binding titers were 85-fold lower in patients with NHL/CLL compared with healthy controls, with seroconversion occurring in only 67% of patients. Neutralization titers were also lower and correlated with binding titers ( P < .0001). Treatment with anti-CD20-directed therapies within 1 year resulted in 136-fold lower binding titers. Peripheral blood B-cell count also correlated with vaccine response. At 3 months from last anti-CD20-directed therapy, B-cell count ≥ 4.31/μL blood around the time of vaccination predicted response (OR 7.46, P = .04). Antibody responses also correlated with age. Importantly, neutralization titers against Delta and Omicron were reduced six- and 42-fold, respectively, with 67% of patients seropositive for WA1/2020 exhibiting seronegativity for Omicron.

CONCLUSION

Antibody binding and live-virus neutralization against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants of concern including Delta and Omicron were substantially lower in patients with NHL/CLL compared with healthy vaccinees. Anti-CD20-directed therapy < 1 year before vaccination and number of circulating B cells strongly predict vaccine response.
Sociodemographic and Facility-Related Disparities in the Delivery of Guideline-Concordant Therapy Among Patients With Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: da Costa Wilson L. , Camp E. Ramsay , Thrift Aaron P.
Published: April 2022

PURPOSE:

Evidence on health disparities among patients treated with multimodality therapy protocols is still limited. We aimed to evaluate the associations between patient-level and system-level factors and the receipt of guideline-concordant therapy among patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA).

METHODS:

This is a national cohort study of patients with stage I-III EA in the National Cancer Database (2006-2018) treated with either upfront resection or neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery. Clinical and pathologic staging data were used for defining guideline-concordant therapy. Logistic regression models were built to identify independent associations between deviations from treatment guidelines and clinical, sociodemographic, and hospital-related factors.

RESULTS:

Among 18,803 patients with EA treated at 1,049 hospitals, 4,511 had an endoscopic resection, 4,866 had upfront resection, and 9,426 had neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery. A total of 16,002 patients (85.1%) received guideline-concordant therapy. Patients who were age 70 years or older (odds ratio [OR] 1.35; 95% CI, 1.14 to 1.60), had a Charlson-Deyo modified score of ≥ 1, and were treated at hospitals with a safety-net burden of ≥ 10% (OR 1.13; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.25) had higher risk of deviations from guidelines, whereas treatment at high-volume facilities (OR 0.84; 95% CI, 0.74 to 0.95) and diagnosis after 2011 decreased this risk. Relative to cT0-1N0 patients, those with cT2N0 disease had the highest risk of deviations from guideline-concordant therapy (OR 3.76; 95% CI, 3.30 to 4.29). Among patients treated at high-volume facilities, safety-net burden over 10% increased the risk of deviations (OR 1.26; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.57).

CONCLUSION:

The delivery of guideline-concordant therapy among patients with EA varies significantly across clinical stage groups and is associated with several sociodemographic disparities. This knowledge should be a resource for future quality improvement strategies intended to address inequitable care within vulnerable populations.
Inactivation of Prefrontal Cortex Attenuates Behavioral Arousal Induced by Stimulation of Basal Forebrain During Sevoflurane Anesthesia
Authors: Dean Jon G. , Fields Christopher W. , Brito Michael A. , Silverstein Brian H. , Rybicki-Kler Chloe , Fryzel Anna M. , Groenhout Trent , Liu Tiecheng , Mashour George A. , Pal Dinesh
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND:

Cholinergic stimulation of prefrontal cortex (PFC) can reverse anesthesia. Conversely, inactivation of PFC can delay emergence from anesthesia. PFC receives cholinergic projections from basal forebrain, which contains wake-promoting neurons. However, the role of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons in arousal from the anesthetized state requires refinement, and it is currently unknown whether the arousal-promoting effect of basal forebrain is mediated through PFC. To address these gaps in knowledge, we implemented a novel approach to the use of chemogenetic stimulation and tested the role of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons in behavioral arousal during sevoflurane anesthesia. Next, we investigated the effect of tetrodotoxin-mediated inactivation of PFC on behavioral arousal produced by electrical stimulation of basal forebrain during sevoflurane anesthesia.

METHODS:

Adult male and female transgenic rats (Long-Evans-Tg [ChAT-Cre]5.1 Deis; n = 22) were surgically prepared for expression of excitatory hM3D(Gq) receptors or mCherry in basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, and activation of these neurons by local delivery of compound 21, an agonist for hM3D(Gq) receptors. The transgenic rats were fitted with microdialysis probes for agonist delivery into basal forebrain and simultaneous prefrontal acetylcholine measurement. Adult male and female Sprague Dawley rats were surgically prepared for bilateral electrical stimulation of basal forebrain and tetrodotoxin infusion (156 μM and 500 nL) into PFC (n = 9) or bilateral electrical stimulation of piriform cortex (n = 9) as an anatomical control. All rats were implanted with electrodes to monitor the electroencephalogram. Heart and respiration rates were monitored using noninvasive sensors. A 6-point scale was used to score behavioral arousal (0 = no arousal and 5 = return of righting reflex).

RESULTS:

Compound 21 delivery into basal forebrain of rats with hM3D(Gq) receptors during sevoflurane anesthesia produced increases in arousal score (P < .001; confidence interval [CI], 1.80–4.35), heart rate (P < .001; CI, 36.19–85.32), respiration rate (P < .001; CI, 22.81–58.78), theta/delta ratio (P = .008; CI, 0.028–0.16), and prefrontal acetylcholine (P < .001; CI, 1.73–7.46). Electrical stimulation of basal forebrain also produced increases in arousal score (P < .001; CI, 1.85–4.08), heart rate (P = .018; CI, 9.38–98.04), respiration rate (P < .001; CI, 24.15–53.82), and theta/delta ratio (P = .020; CI, 0.019–0.22), which were attenuated by tetrodotoxin-mediated inactivation of PFC.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study validates the role of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons in behavioral arousal and demonstrates that the arousal-promoting effects of basal forebrain are mediated in part through PFC.
Constructing Planar C–N Bond-Linked Bi-Triazole High-Energy Explosives via the Formation of Salts
Authors: Wang Yu , Zheng Wanwan , Zhang Lingfeng , Ma Haixia , Zhang Yazhou , Guo Zhaoqi
Published: April 2022

Energy and safety are the two most concerning properties of energetic materials (EMs). Design and synthesis of planar molecules is considered to be an effective way to obtain high-energy low-sensitivity EMs. In this study, a new C–N bond-linked energetic bi-triazole compound, 3,4′,5-triamine-1,3′-bi(1,2,4-triazole) (1), and its nitrate (1a) and perchlorate salt (1b), as well as a nitrification product, 5-amino-3,4′-dinitramide-1,3′-bi(1,2,4-triazole) (2), and corresponding sodium (2a) and potassium salt (2b) were designed and synthesized. All compounds were fully characterized. The molecular structures of 1, 1a, 1b, 2a, and 2b were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray structure analyses. It was found that 1 exhibits non-planar loose molecular stacking, while 1a, 1b, and 2b exhibit compact face-to-face layered molecular packing structures, and salt 2a exhibits compact wave-like stacking. The physicochemical properties of all compounds, such as density, thermal stability, and mechanical sensitivity, were studied. 1, 1a, 1b, 2a, and 2b have low impact and friction sensitivity and good thermal stability. In addition, Hirshfeld surfaces (HS), independent gradient model (IGM) analyses combined with single-crystal analyses revealed intermolecular interactions in 1, 1a, 1b, 2a, and 2b and clarified the relationship between the structures and molecular properties. The sophisticated hydrogen bonds between the bi-triazole molecules and nitrate/perchlorate ions are the driving force of formation of planar structures. Detonation properties calculated with the professional software package EXPLO5 showed that nitrate 1a (D = 8872 m·s−1, P = 34.8 GPa) and perchlorate 1b (D = 8956 m·s−1, P = 35.1 GPa) exhibit good detonation performance.
INTERNACIONALIZAÇÃO DE EMPRESAS E GOVERNANÇA CORPORATIVA: UMA ANÁLISE DE DESEMPENHO DE EMPRESAS DE CAPITAL ABERTO NO BRASIL
Authors: Oliveira Priscila De , Tizziotti Catarine Palmieri Pitangui , Peixoto Fernanda Maciel , Araújo Aracy
Published: April 2022

Este trabalho tem por objetivo realizar uma análise comparativa entre as empresas de capital aberto internacionalizadas e não internacionalizadas e seus desempenhos, considerando o ROA e ROE dentro dos segmentos de listagem de governança corporativa que ocupam na B3 para o ano de 2017. Para isso, confrontaram-se as médias e os desvios padrões de 152 instituições não financeiras brasileiras por setor, pertencentes a base de dados da Economática (2017). Esta pesquisa pode ser classificada como descritiva, de natureza quantitativa com a utilização de métodos e técnicas estatísticas. Como variáveis de internacionalização das empresas, utilizaram-se a exportação sobre a receita total e a comercialização de ADRs. Já para a governança corporativa, seguiu-se a classificação dos segmentos de listagem de GC da B3. Os resultados evidenciaram que a maioria dos setores mostra relação positiva para empresas com alta governança e que são internacionalizadas, indicando que empresas com este perfil tendem a ter melhor desempenho, considerando as variáveis estudadas: ROA e ROE. Sugerem-se, como futuras pesquisas, a inclusão de outras variáveis de desempenho, aumentar o período de análise e utilizar outros testes estatísticos.
Χρηματοδότηση των Ινστιτούτων Επαγγελματικής Κατάρτισης (Ι.Ε.Κ.). Η περίπτωση της Ελληνικής Βιοτεχνικής Εταιρείας - Διπλαρείου Σχολής.
Authors: Μπίτης Αθανάσιος Κωνσταντίνος
Published: April 2022

Το παρόν άρθρο εντάσσεται στο πλαίσιο Χρηματοδότηση της Διά Βίου Μάθησης. Η Ελληνική Βιοτεχνική Εταιρεία - Διπλάρειος Σχολή από την ίδρυσή της το 1892, ως ιδιωτικός κοινωφελές μη κερδοσκοπικός οργανισμός που προσφέρει δωρεάν εκπαίδευση, εμφανίζει πολλές ιδιαιτερότητες, σε βαθμό που την καθιστούν μοναδική περίπτωση στον ελλαδικό χώρο. Εδώ και 126 χρόνια αποτελεί έναν σπουδαίο πυλώνα εκπαίδευσης και κατάρτισης με μεγάλη κοινωνική και οικονομική προσφορά. Με την παρούσα εργασία, «Χρηματοδότηση των Ινστιτούτων Επαγγελματικής Κατάρτισης (Ι.Ε.Κ.). Η περίπτωση της Ελληνικής Βιοτεχνικής Εταιρείας - Διπλαρείου Σχολής», εστιάζουμε την προσοχή μας στην χρηματοδότηση των Ινστιτούτων Επαγγελματικής Κατάρτισης (Ι.Ε.Κ.) για τη χώρα μας. Μεγάλη βαρύτητα δίνεται στην παρουσίαση και ανάλυση κόστους της εκπαίδευσης του Ι.Ε.Κ. της Ελληνικής Βιοτεχνικής Εταιρείας - Διπλαρείου Σχολής. Θέση του παρόντος άρθρου είναι ότι σε μια εποχή, με ιδιαίτερα κοινωνικοοικονομικά χαρακτηριστικά που αλλάζουν με γρήγορους ρυθμούς, καθίσταται αναγκαία η ανεύρεση νέων πόρων χρηματοδότησης για τη Δια βίου Μάθηση. Καλές πρακτικές όπως η περίπτωση της Ελληνικής Βιοτεχνικής Εταιρείας - Διπλαρείου Σχολής  μπορούν να βοηθήσουν προς την κατεύθυνση αυτή.
Η εισαγωγή του e-mentoring ως θεσμού υποδοχής-υποστήριξης των νεοεισερχόμενων εκπαιδευτικών στην πρωτοβάθμια εκπαίδευση: Μια μελέτη περίπτωσης
Authors: Γιάνναρου Γεωργία , Αλεξανδρόπουλος Γεώργιος
Published: April 2022

H παρούσα ποσοτική μελέτη περίπτωσης διερευνά τις απόψεις για το e-mentoring, σε σχέση με το πρόσωπο-με-πρόσωπο, στην υποδοχή και υποστήριξη των νεοεισερχομένων εκπαιδευτικών στο πλαίσιο της δημόσιας διοίκησης. Το δείγμα ήταν 155 άτομα με βολική δειγματοληψία από τον υπό μελέτη πληθυσμό των περίπου 350 νεοεισερχομένων στην πρωτοβάθμια εκπαίδευση της Ηλείας (2014-2017). Χρησιμοποιήθηκαν τα τεστ Pearson's chi-squared (χ²) και Spearman's rho σε επίπεδο στατιστικής σημαντικότητας α = 0,05. Όπως φαίνεται: α) οι περισσότεροι έχουν συγκεχυμένη εικόνα για την υποστήριξη-αξιολόγησή τους, β) υπάρχουν σε μεγαλύτερο βαθμό οι τεχνικές δυνατότητες σε σχέση με τις διοικητικές για την εισαγωγή του e-mentoring, γ) διαφωνούν με τον νέο θεσμό, δ) δεν θα τον επέλεγαν ως αποτελεσματικότερο και ε) το δείγμα είναι εξαιρετικά ομοιογενές. Προτείνεται η πιλοτική εφαρμογή του θεσμού, καθώς και να αναπτυχθεί περαιτέρω ο προβληματισμός για την ανοικτότητα στον δημόσιο τομέα.
Επιτυχής σχεδιασμός, υλοποίηση και χρήση πληροφοριακών συστημάτων στα Ακαδημαϊκά Ιδρύματα της Ελλάδας
Authors: Φραγκόπουλος Διονύσιος Γ. , Δημάκης Χρήστος Ε.
Published: April 2022

Η εισαγωγή συστημάτων ICT (πληροφοριακών και επικοινωνιακών) στις εκπαιδευτικές και στις οργανωσιακές δομές των ΑΕΙ είναι από τα καθοριστικά στοιχεία της σύγχρονης εξέλιξής τους. Η παρούσα έρευνα εξετάζει 44 παράγοντες επιτυχίας σχεδιασμού, υλοποίησης και χρήσης των πληροφοριακών συστημάτων στο χώρο των Ακαδημαϊκών Ιδρυμάτων της Ελλάδας μέσω της χρήσης ερωτηματολογίου. Η κατασκευή του ερωτηματολογίου έγινε μέσω ομαδοποίησης 229 παραγόντων από τη σχετική ακαδημαϊκή βιβλιογραφία, μεταξύ αυτών και παράγοντες επιτυχούς υλοποίησης έργων Σύμπραξης Δημοσίου – Ιδιωτικού Τομέα (ΣΔΙΤ). Η έρευνα έλαβε χώρα σε όλα τα Ακαδημαϊκά Ιδρύματα και Ερευνητικούς Φορείς της χώρας με χρήση της ειδικής τεχνικής διεξαγωγής των Δομικών Ελλιπών Δεδομένων (Planned Missing Data). Από την ανάλυση του δείγματος των 1.369 συμμετεχόντων, προκύπτει ένα ενιαίο μοντέλο κατανόησης καθώς και ποικίλα συμπεράσματα για τις εσωτερικές σχέσεις των παραγόντων. Το προτεινόμενο μοντέλο μπορεί να αποτελέσει βάση για την διαμόρφωση ενός εξειδικευμένου καταλόγου οδηγιών για τη σχεδίαση, ανάπτυξη και διαχείριση έργων πληροφορικής του Υπουργείου Παιδείας, Έρευνας και Θρησκευμάτων.
The Size of Schools affects the Public Annual Average Cost? Empirical Evidence from Second Chance Schools in Greece
Authors: Chanis Stefanos , Kravvariti Illiana , Tsamadias Constantinos
Published: April 2022

Ένα από τα προβλήματα που αντιμετωπίζουν οι οικονομολόγοι στον χώρο της εκπαίδευσης και οι υπεύθυνοι για τη λήψης αποφάσεων για τα συστήματα της εκπαίδευσης και της διά βίου μάθησης είναι το κατά πόσον το μέγεθος των μονάδων εκπαίδευσης και δια βίου μάθησης επηρεάζει το ετήσιο δημόσιο μέσο κόστος, καθώς και την προσέγγιση του βέλτιστου μεγέθους των εκπαιδευτικών μονάδων. Η εργασία εξετάζει το παραπάνω πρόβλημα στην περίπτωση των σχολείων δεύτερης ευκαιρίας στην Ελλάδα. Τα σχολεία δεύτερης ευκαιρίας αποτελούν μια δομή της δια βίου μάθησης. Η εργασία βασίζεται στη θεωρία του κόστους και χρησιμοποιεί δεδομένα που προέρχονται από το Υπουργείο Παιδείας, Έρευνας και Θρησκευμάτων και από έρευνα που διεξήχθη το έτος 2015. Τα δεδομένα καλύπτουν το εκπαιδευτικό έτος 2014-2015. Η εμπειρική ανάλυση αποκαλύπτει ότι όταν αυξάνεται το μέγεθος των μονάδων δια βίου μάθησης, το ετήσιο δημόσιο μέσο κόστος μειώνεται στο ελάχιστο και στη συνέχεια αυξάνεται. Το βέλτιστο μέγεθος των μονάδων δια βίου μάθησης είναι μεγαλύτερο από το μέγεθος των υφιστάμενων μονάδων. Μια νέα δομή του συστήματος με την προσαρμογή των μονάδων στο βέλτιστο μέγεθος, θα μειώσει το ετήσιο δημόσιο μέσο κόστος.
Η επίδραση του Δημόσιου και Ιδιωτικού Κεφαλαίου σε Έρευνα & Ανάπτυξη στην Παραγωγικότητα της Οικονομίας: Εμπειρική απόδειξη από πέντε χώρες της Περιφέρειας της Ευρωζώνης.
Authors: Πέγκας Παναγιώτης , Σταϊκούρας Χρήστος , Τσαμαδιάς Κωνσταντίνος
Published: April 2022

Η εργασία διερευνά εμπειρικά την επίδραση του δημόσιου και ιδιωτικού κεφαλαίου σε έρευνα και ανάπτυξη (Ε&Α) στη συνολική παραγωγικότητα, σε μια ομάδα πέντε κρατών – μελών της Ευρωζώνης (Ελλάδα, Ιρλανδία, Ισπανία, Ιταλία και Πορτογαλία), κατά την περίοδο 1995-2015. Η εμπειρική ανάλυση χρησιμοποιεί πάνελ δεδομένα. Τα αποτελέσματα της εμπειρικής ανάλυσης καταδεικνύουν ότι μακροχρονίως το δημόσιο και ιδιωτικό κεφάλαιο σε R&D, είχαν θετική και στατιστικά σημαντική επίδραση στη συνολική παραγωγικότητα των ερευνώμενων οικονομιών. Μεγαλύτερη υπήρξε η επίδραση του δημοσίου κεφαλαίου, συγκριτικά με την επίδραση του ιδιωτικού κεφαλαίου. Επίσης, τα αποτελέσματα δείχνουν μακροχρόνια αμφίδρομη σχέση αιτιότητας κατά Granger, για όλα τα ζεύγη των εξεταζόμενων μεταβλητών. Συμπερασματικά, τα αποτελέσματα επαληθεύουν τη θεωρία και συνακόλουθα υποστηρίζουν πολιτικές για προώθηση του R&D στο δημόσιο και στο ιδιωτικό πεδίο, στις πέντε χώρες της «περιφέρειας» της ευρωζώνης.