bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and neighborhood-level opportunity of assault-injured children in Milwaukee
Authors: Georgeades Christina , Farazi Manzur , Bergner Carisa , Bowder Alexis , Cassidy Laura , Levas Michael N. , Nimmer Mark , Flynn-O’Brien Katherine T.
Published: August 2023

Background

Multiple studies have explored demographic characteristics and social determinants of health in relation to the risk of pediatric assault-related injuries and reinjury. However, few have explored protective factors. The Child Opportunity Index (COI) uses neighborhood-level indicators to measure ‘opportunity’ based on factors such as education, social environment, and economic resources. We hypothesized that higher ‘opportunity’ would be associated with less risk of reinjury in assault-injured youth.

Methods

This was a single-institution, retrospective study at a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center. Trauma registry and electronic medical record data were queried for children ≤ 18 years old with assault-related injuries from 1/1/2016 to 5/31/2021. Reinjured children, defined as any child who sustained more than one assault injury, were compared to non-reinjured children. Area Deprivation Index (ADI), a marker of socioeconomic status, and COI were determined through census block and tract data, respectively. A post-hoc analysis examined COI between all assault-injured children, unintentionally injured children, and a state-based normative cohort representative of non-injured children.

Results

There were 55,862 traumatic injury encounters during the study period. Of those, 1224 (2.3%) assault injured children were identified, with 52 (4.2%) reinjured children and 1172 (95.8%) non-reinjured children. Reinjured children were significantly more likely to be older (median age 15.0 [IQR 13.8–17.0] vs. median age 14.0 [IQR 8.8–16.0], p < 0.001) and female (55.8% vs. 37.5%, p = 0.01) than non-reinjured children. COI was not associated with reinjury. There were also no significant differences in race, ethnicity, insurance status, ADI, or mechanism and severity of injury between cohorts. Post-hoc analysis revealed that assault-injured children were more likely to live in areas of lower COI than the other cohorts.

Conclusions

Compared to children who sustained only one assault during the study period, children who experienced more than one assault were more likely to be older and female. Furthermore, living in an area with more or less opportunity did not influence the risk of reinjury. However, all assault-injured children were more likely to live in areas of lower COI compared to unintentionally injured and a state-based normative cohort. Identification of factors on a social or environmental level that leads to assaultive injury warrants further exploration.
Effects of turning frequency on fermentation efficiency and microbial community metabolic function of sheep manure composting on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Cai Rui , Zuo Sasa , Cao Xiaohui , Jiang Xin , Xu Chuncheng
Published: August 2023

This study explored the effects of turning frequency on fermentation efficiency and microbial metabolic function of sheep manure composting on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP). Five treatments with different turning frequencies were set up in this study: turning every 1 day (T1), 2 days (T2), 4 days (T3), 6 days (T4), and 8 days (T5). Results showed that the high temperature period for T1 and T5 lasted only 4 days, while that for T2–T4 lasted more than 8 days. The germination index of T1 and T5 was lower than 80%, while that of T2–T4 was 100.6%, 97.8%, and 88.6%, respectively. This study further predicted the microbial metabolic function of T2–T4 using the bioinformatics tool PICRUSt2 (Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States) and determining the activities of various functional enzymes. The results showed that carbohydrate metabolism, protein metabolism, and nucleotide metabolism were the main metabolic pathways of microorganisms, and that T2 increased the abundance of functional genes of these metabolic pathways. The activities of protease, cellulase, and peroxidase in T2 and T3 were higher than those in T4, and the effect of T2 was more significant. In conclusion, turning once every 2 days can improve the quality of sheep manure compost on the QTP.

Graphical Abstract
Successful long-term management for postoperative sternal infection with multiple disseminated lymphadenitis caused by Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Yanagihara Takahiro , Kawamura Tomoyuki , Minagi Kenji , Sekine Yasuharu , Sugai Kazuto , Ichimura Hideo , Sato Yukio
Published: August 2023

Background

Postoperative sternal infection caused by Mycobacterium abscessus (M. abscessus) is rare, but associated with a high 2-year mortality rate of 40%. Decision-making around treatment strategy is challenging. Here, we present a successfully treated case of postoperative M. abscessus sternal infection with multiple disseminated lymphadenitis.

Case presentation

The patient, an 80-year-old woman with anterior mediastinal tumor and myasthenia gravis, underwent extended thymectomy under median sternotomy. Redness appeared around the scar two months after the operation. Sternal wires were removed, debridement was performed, and the wound was kept open. Mycobacterium abscessus was isolated from the wound culture. The disseminated lesions in the right axillary, parasternal, and bilateral supraclavicular lymph nodes, rendered surgical options for infection control difficult; therefore, she was treated conservatively with antibiotics and negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). The wound diminished but infectious granulation tissue remained after NPWT. Two disseminated lesions were percutaneously punctured and drained of pus, which resulted in negative cultures. Additional debridement and wound closure were performed. She was discharged after switching to oral antibiotics. No recurrence was observed five months after the antibiotics were completed (total sensitive antibiotics use: 366 days).

Conclusions

Repeated culture assessment of disseminated lesions is recommended to facilitate the development of appropriate therapeutic strategies. Localized procedures may be an option for patients with controlled disseminated lesions evidenced by negative cultures.
Influencing factors associated with maternal delivery at home in urban areas: a cross-sectional analysis of the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017–2018 data
Authors: Ahmed Khandaker Tanveer , Karimuzzaman Md. , Mahmud Shohel , Rahman Labiba , Hossain Md. Moyazzem , Rahman Azizur
Published: August 2023

Background

The associated factors and patterns of giving birth in home settings of rural areas have been extensively studied in Bangladeshi literature. However, urban areas still need to be explored, particularly with recent data. Therefore, the authors aimed to investigate the influential determinants of delivery at home in urban areas of Bangladesh.

Materials and methods

In this study, 1699 urban-dwelling women who had given birth within the previous 60 months of the survey and lived in urban areas were used. The secondary data were extracted from the latest Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017–2018. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were applied along with the association among selected variables were examined by the Chi-square test.

Results

Findings depict that 36.49% of women who lived in urban areas of Bangladesh delivered at home, whereas, 63.51% delivered at different govt. and private health care facilities. Women who lived in Chittagong [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.11, 95% CI 1.24–3.60], Barisal [AOR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.16–3.64] and Sylhet [AOR = 1.92, 95% CI 1.08–3.43] divisions have more likelihood to deliver at home (36.85%). Urban women following Christian religion [AOR = 10.71, 95% CI 1.32–86.68] have higher odds of delivering child at home (0.47%). Urban women having three or more children before her latest delivery (22.37%) and who are employed (29.37%) have more likelihood to deliver at home. However, women aged between 25 and 34 years (43.50%), who have higher education (25.90%), play the role of household head (9.06%), have parity of more than two births (2.24%), and read daily newspapers (68.69%) had a lower chance of delivery at home. Furthermore, women from wealthier families (89.12%) and more antenatal care (ANC) visits (94.93%) were less likely to have a delivery at home.

Conclusion

Despite significant progress in women and reproductive health in Bangladesh, the proportion of delivery in the home in urban areas is alarming and should be emphasized more. The authors believe the identified factors will help design interventions and policy development on this issue.
Bio-green synthesis of calcium acetate from oyster shell waste at low cost and reducing the emission of greenhouse gases
Authors: Seesanong Somkiat , Seangarun Chaowared , Boonchom Banjong , Laohavisuti Nongnuch , Thompho Somphob , Boonmee Wimonmat , Mongkol Sorakit , Rungrojchaipon Pesak
Published: August 2023

Biological wastes obtained from food, oyster shells, were recycled to calcium carbonate and then used as bio-green raw material to replace limestone/carbonate stone for calcium acetate (Ca(CH3COO)2·H2O) production. The conditions (ambient temperature occurred in an exothermic reaction, drying time, yield, and solubility) of the reaction between the bio-green CaCO3 and three different acetic (CH3COOH) concentrations (8, 10, and 12 M) were investigated. The product's maximum yield (93%) with a shorter drying time (18 h) was obtained from the reaction between the bio-green CaCO3 with 12 M acetic acid revealing a lower cost. The chemical compositions without any toxic metal impurity revealed by the X-ray fluorescence technique would be useful to suggest use in the specific application. The X-ray diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared, and Thermogravimetric analysis data of Ca(CH3COO)2·H2O prepared by the bio-green CaCO3 obtained from oyster shell wastes in this work and those in previous works used other calcium sources were consistent. The morphologies with different sizes of the obtained Ca(CH3COO)2·H2O depend on the CH3COOH concentrations reported in this work and were different from those reported in previous works because of different calcium sources. According to the observation, it can be concluded that the low-cost and bio-green technique without the environmental effects was successfully applied to produce cheap Ca(CH3COO)2·H2O and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which can be used in the specific industry.
Prognostic value of S100A4 and Glypican-3 in hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic HCV patients
Authors: El-Bendary Mahmoud , Farid Khaled , Arafa Mohammad , Elkashef Wagdi , Abdullah Talaat , El-Mesery Ahmed
Published: August 2023

Aims

Both S100A4 and Glypican-3 have been known to be engaged in HCC development and progression. This study aimed to evaluate both S100A4 and GPC3 expression in HCC tissues as a prognostic markers.

Methods

Tissues from 70 patients of HCC in cirrhotic HCV patients were evaluated by immunohistochemistry using antibodies against SA100A4 and GPC3 and compared with tumor-adjacent tissue (controls). All cases were followed for 40 months.

Results

GPC3 was more expressed in HCC (79%) than S100A4 (21%). S100A4 was more significantly expressed in cases showing metastasis, microscopic vascular emboli, necrosis, and grade III tumors. There was no relationship between overall survival and both S100A4 and GPC3. The only significant independent predictor for recurrence was decompensation (OR 3.037), while metastasis was significantly predicted by S100A4 expression (OR 9.63) and necrosis (OR 8.33).

Conclusion

S100A4 might be used as a prognostic marker for HCC, while GPC3 is a reliable marker of HCC diagnosis.
Voltage-controlled oscillator based analog-to-digital converter in 130-nm CMOS for biomedical applications
Authors: Ellaithy Dina M.
Published: August 2023

Medical implants and portable wireless sensors are the most serious of biomedical applications due to the dependence on limited battery lifetime. Consequently, energy efficiency integrated circuits designs must be put to higher attention. A particular distinguishing contribution of this paper is its focus on the power consumption that affects battery life and the heat dissipated for biomedical applications. This paper demonstrates a power-efficient implementation of analog-to-digital converter (ADC) based on voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) to convert the collected analog vital signs into digital data for digital signal processing. The current-starved scheme is employed to implement the VCO efficiently with five-stage which leads to high savings in power and area. D-flip flop (D-FF) scheme is proposed to simplify the hardware architecture of the proposed reset counter. The proposed architecture is implemented with 130 nm CMOS technology and it can perform conversion of analog input signal to digital output using a straightforward hardware structure. The proposed VCO-based ADC achieves improvement in energy saving. Simulation results confirm that this work attains a power dissipation of 0.257 mW and active area of 0.007 mm2, and a very good Walden FOMW of 125 dB. The proposed methodology can implement any number of bits of the ADC by using the appropriate voltage-controlled oscillator with the convenient reset counter.
Endoscopic approach to hyperplastic laryngeal lesions: a literature review and personal experience
Authors: Gurău Petru
Published: August 2023

Background

Presently, there is a lot of confusion in the identification and classification and no consensus regarding the management of hyperplastic laryngeal lesions (HLL). Conventional transoral microsurgery has some drawbacks and is not always possible. The purpose of the study was to identify criteria for preoperative detection of HLL with high malignant potential and to assess the effectiveness of flexible endoscopic surgery (FES) in the management of HLL.

Methods

A review of relevant English literature and a retrospective review of medical records of 37 patients with HLL, treated by FES, was performed.

Results

Endoscopic and histologic features of HLL are discussed. An endoscopic classification of HLL is proposed: chronic hyperplastic laryngitis (CHL), chronic hyperplastic laryngitis with keratosis (CHLK), leukoplakia, pachydermia, and verrucous neoplasia. The role of FES using different tools in the diagnosis and management of HLL is presented.

We applied flexible endoscopic laryngeal surgery (FELS) for 37 patients (ages, from 20 to 77 years, men 34, women 3) with the following types of HLL: CHLK 5, leukoplakia 18, pachydermia 12, verrucous neoplasia 2. Tracheostomy was offered in 1 case of obstructive verrucous neoplasia with subsequent decanulation after successful endoscopic management.

According to the data from the literature and our own observations, the following criteria seem to point to a HLL with high malignant potential: verrucous neoplasia, pachydermia, a lesion affecting more than a half of the vocal fold, mucosal hyperemia, high-grade dysplasia in biopsy samples.

The expected result (total eradication of the visible lesion) was obtained in all of our cases (mean follow-up period 76 months). Invasive carcinoma developed subsequently in 2 patients that continued to smoke after surgery. All the patients that could be followed-up stated an improvement of their voice after surgery.

Conclusion

The following criteria can be used for preoperative detection of HLL with high malignant potential: verrucous neoplasia, pachydermia, a lesion affecting more than a half of the vocal fold, mucosal hyperemia, high-grade dysplasia in biopsy samples. Flexible endoscopic surgery, preceded by large flexible forceps biopsy, is a good alternative for HLL management. Diathermy snare is a useful tool for the diagnosis and first-line treatment in selected patients.
First evidence of sex-specific responses to chemical cues in tardigrade mate searching behaviour
Authors: Chartrain Justine , Knott K. Emily , Michalczyk Łukasz , Calhim Sara
Published: August 2023

Chemical cues are widely used in intraspecific and interspecific communication, either as substances deposited in the substrate or as molecules diffused in water or air. In tardigrades, an emerging microscopic study system, chemical communication and its role in reproduction are poorly known. Here, we assessed sex differences in the detection of (a) short-range diffusing signals and (b) deposited cue trails during the mate-searching behaviour of freely moving virgin male and female Macrobiotus polonicus. We tracked individual behaviour (a) in simultaneous double-choice chambers, where live conspecifics of each sex were presented in water and (b) of freely moving pairs on agar without water. We found that males, but not females, preferentially associated with opposite-sex individuals in trials conducted in water. In contrast, neither sex detected nor followed cues deposited on agar. In conclusion, our study suggests that mate discrimination and approach are male-specific traits and are limited to waterborne chemical cues. These results support the existence of Darwinian sex roles in pre-mating behaviour in an animal group with virtually non-existing sex differences in morphology or ecology.
Preparation of Nitrogen-Doped Glucose-Derived Activated Carbon and Its Application for the Efficient Removal of Phosphate Ions from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Wang Jing , Matsuzawa Fumiya , Sato Natsuho , Amano Yoshimasa , Machida Motoi
Published: August 2023

In this study, aiming to address the issue of phosphate contamination in water, a novel activated carbon adsorbent with excellent adsorption performance for phosphate ions was designed and synthesized through a nitrogen-doped surface modification method. The adsorption experiment results revealed that the sample obtained after the second activation at 600 °C (MeUrGlu-6.0Z0.5-2nd) exhibited a high adsorption capacity of up to 0.42 mmol/g for phosphate ions. The surface modification method using nitrogen-doping significantly enhanced the adsorption capacity of the adsorbent for phosphate anions. The surface characteristics of the sample were analyzed by Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method, elemental analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The characterization results indicated that the increase in adsorption capacity primarily attributed to the successful introduction of quaternary nitrogen (N-Q) onto the activated carbon surface. Additionally, the adsorbent demonstrated high adsorption capacity for phosphate ions in acidic solution (pH <4.5), overcoming the limitation of commercial anion exchange resin HP555 which cannot be used effectively in acidic environment. The Langmuir isotherm model was found to accurately describe the adsorption process which is a monolayer adsorption. Finally, the regenerability of MeUrGlu-6.0Z0.5-2nd and the recovery of phosphate ions were investigated in a continuous flow adsorption mode.
Effect of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta-associated G15U mutation on the s2m element dimerization and its interactions with miR-1307-3p
Authors: Cunningham Caylee L. , Frye Caleb J. , Makowski Joseph A. , Kensinger Adam H. , Shine Morgan , Milback Ella J. , Lackey Patrick E. , Evanseck Jeffrey D. , Mihailescu Mihaela-Rita
Published: August 2023

The s2m, a highly conserved 41-nt hairpin structure in the SARS-CoV-2 genome, serves as an attractive therapeutic target that may have important roles in the virus life cycle or interactions with the host. However, the conserved s2m in Delta SARS-CoV-2, a previously dominant variant characterized by high infectivity and disease severity, has received relatively less attention than that of the original SARS-CoV-2 virus. The focus of this work is to identify and define the s2m changes between Delta and SARS-CoV-2 and the subsequent impact of those changes upon the s2m dimerization and interactions with the host microRNA miR-1307-3p. Bioinformatics analysis of the GISAID database targeting the s2m element reveals a >99% correlation of a single nucleotide mutation at the 15th position (G15U) in Delta SARS-CoV-2. Based on1H NMR spectroscopy assignments comparing the imino proton resonance region of s2m and the s2m G15U at 19°C, we show that the U15–A29 base pair closes, resulting in a stabilization of the upper stem without overall secondary structure deviation. Increased stability of the upper stem did not affect the chaperone activity of the viral N protein, as it was still able to convert the kissing dimers formed by s2m G15U into a stable duplex conformation, consistent with the s2m reference. However, we show that the s2m G15U mutation drastically impacts the binding of host miR-1307-3p. These findings demonstrate that the observed G15U mutation alters the secondary structure of s2m with subsequent impact on viral binding of host miR-1307-3p, with potential consequences on immune responses.
Ανάπτυξη και βελτιστοποίηση καινοτόμων τεχνολογιών με ενεργειακά και περιβαλλοντικά οφέλη
Authors: Καρλέση Θεώνη
Published: August 2023

Αντικείμενο της παρούσας διδακτορικής διατριβής αποτελεί η ανάπτυξη, εφαρμογή, αξιολόγηση και βελτιστοποίηση καινοτόμων υλικών, τα οποία ανταποκρίνονται και προσαρμόζονται στις εξωτερικές συνθήκες και στις αντίστοιχες ενεργειακές και περιβαλλοντικές απαιτήσεις: τα θερμοχρωμικά υλικά και τα υλικά αλλαγής φάσης (Phase Change Materials- PCM). Οι καινοτόμες τεχνολογίες των υλικών βασίστηκαν στην αξιοποίηση των μεταβαλλόμενων εγγενών φυσικών και χημικών ιδιοτήτων τους με στόχο i. την εξοικονόμηση ενέργειας, ii. την ανάσχεση του φαινομένου της αστικής θερμικής νησίδας και iii. τη βελτίωση των εσωτερικών και εξωτερικών θερμικών συνθηκων για τον χρήστη, τόσο σε επίπεδο κτιρίου, όσο και σε επίπεδο πόλης αντίστοιχα. Στο πλαίσιο αυτό η παρούσα Διδακτορική Διατριβή θέτει τους ακόλουθους βασικούς στόχους στην έρευνα των υλικών νέας τεχνολογίας:- Μείωση των θερμικών απαιτήσεων λόγω χαμηλής απορρόφησης κατά την χειμερινή περίοδο, διατηρώντας ταυτόχρονα την ιδιότητα της υψηλής ανακλαστικότητας των ανακλαστικών στο υπέρυθρο ψυχρών υλικών κατά τη θερινή περίοδο. Με αυτόν τον τρόπο επιτυγχάνεται η διαχειρίση των ηλιακων κερδών ανάλογα με τις απαιτήσεις: εκμετάλλευση της ηλιακής ακτινοβολίας κατά τη χειμερινή περίοδο κατά την οποία είναι επιθυμητή και αποβολή της κατά την θερινή περίοδο κατά την οποία είναι ανεπιθύμητη.- Επιπλέον μείωση των επιφανειακών θερμοκρασιών κατά τη θερινή περίοδο με ταυτόχρονη μείωση των θερμοκρασιακών διακυμάνσεων στο εσωτερικό των κτιρίων και μετατόπιση των φορτίων αιχμής. Για την υλοποίηση του πρώτου στόχου, αναπτύχθηκαν, ελέγθηκαν, εφαρμόστηκαν και βελτιστοποιήθηκαν θερμοχρωμικές επικαλύψεις για χρήση στον αστικό ιστό, με την ενσωμάτωση θερμοχρωμικών υλικών που μεταβάλλουν τις οπτικές και θερμικές ιδιότητες ανάλογα με τη θερμοκρασία. Έτσι, οι επικαλύψεις αυτές εμφανίζονται ανοιχτόχρωμες και ανακλαστικές με την αύξηση της θερμοκρασίας περιορίζοντας τα θερμικά κέρδη κατά τη θερινή περίοδο, ενώ όταν η θερμοκρασία μειωθεί κάτω από τη συγκεκριμένη θερμοκρασία αλλαγής χρώματος του υλικού, γίνονται σκουρόχρωμες και απορροφητικές αυξάνοντας τα θερμικά κέρδη όταν αυτό απαιτείται, δηλαδή κατά τη χειμερινή περίοδο. Για την υλοποίηση του δεύτερου στόχου,οι ψυχρές επικαλύψεις ενισχύθηκαν με προσμίξεις υλικών αλλαγής φάσης (PCM), υλικών δηλαδή που έχουν την ικανότητα να αποθηκεύουν θερμότητα υπό λανθάνουσα μορφή και να την αποδίδουν με χρονική υστέρηση μειώνοντας έτσι το φορτίο αιχμής και περιορίζοντας τις θερμοκρασιακές διακυμάνσεις στο εσωτερικό των κτιρίων. Ταυτόχρονα βελτιώθηκαν οι ιδιότητες του ψυχρού υλικού αυξάνοντας περαιτέρω την ανακλαστικότητά του.
The first released available genome of the common ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.) extended the research region on salt tolerance, C3-CAM photosynthetic conversion, and halophilism
Authors: Sato Ryoma , Kondo Yuri , Agarie Sakae
Published: August 2023

Background: The common ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.) is an annual herb belonging to the genus Mesembryanthemum of the family Aizoaceae, native to Southern Africa.

Methods: We performed shotgun genome paired-end sequencing using the Illumina platform to determine the genome sequence of the ice plants. We assembled the whole genome sequences using the genome assembler “ALGA” and “Redundans”, then released them as available genomic information. Finally, we mainly estimated the potential genomic function by the homology search method.

Results: A draft genome was generated with a total length of 286 Mb corresponding to 79.2% of the estimated genome size (361 Mb), consisting of 49,782 contigs. It encompassed 93.49% of the genes of terrestrial higher plants, 99.5% of the ice plant transcriptome, and 100% of known DNA sequences. In addition, 110.9 Mb (38.8%) of repetitive sequences and untranslated regions, 971 tRNA, and 100 miRNA loci were identified, and their effects on stress tolerance and photosynthesis were investigated. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on ribosomal DNA among 26 kinds of plant species revealed genetic similarity between the ice plant and poplar, which have salt tolerance. Overall, 35,702 protein-coding regions were identified in the genome, of which 56.05% to 82.59% were annotated and submitted to domain searches and gene ontology (GO) analyses, which found that eighteen GO terms stood out among five plant species. These terms were related to biological defense, growth, reproduction, transcription, post-transcription, and intermembrane transportation, regarded as one of the fundamental results of using the utilized ice plant genome.

Conclusions: The information that we characterized is useful for elucidation of the mechanism of growth promotion under salinity and reversible conversion of the photosynthetic type from C3 to Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM).
Case Report: Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Khan Samiha Jameel Ahmed , Gawande Madhuri , Hande Alka , Patil Swati , Sonone Archana , Pakhale Aayushi
Published: August 2023

The upper aerodigestive tract is where basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC), a rare variation of conventional SCC, is most frequently found. The hypopharynx, tonsil, supraglottic larynx, tongue (base), and head-neck regions are particularly susceptible to BSCC. Clinically, the presentation of BSCC is similar to that of conventional SCC, but it has a poorer prognosis than traditional SCC. BSCC is distinguished histopathologically by a dimorphic pattern, a distinctive basal cell component paired with a squamous component, and a squamous component. However, its similar features to conventional SCC make it difficult to diagnose. Therefore, histopathology and immunohistochemistry play a crucial role in diagnosing such tumors. Here we present the case of a 70-year-old male diagnosed with BSCC involving the tongue.
Assessing the awareness regarding cervical cancer in Vidarbha: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: joshi Dhanshree , Mude Gaurav
Published: August 2023

Cervical cancer is a tangible disease nowadays, many people are unaware of the signs and symptoms of the same and thus it has a poor prognosis. Prior to cervical cancer developing, the tissue of the cervix goes through changes known as aplasia, during which the tissue starts to develop aberrant cells. The unusual cells could potentially turn into cancer cells, grow deeper into the cervix, and spread to neighboring tissue if unchecked or untreated. Every year, 5 lakh new instances of cervical cancer are identified worldwide. A 20- year-old woman at moderate chance has a 250/10,000 of adopting invasive cervical cancer throughout her lifetime and a 118/10,000 chance of dying from it in the absence of screening. Between the ages of 20 - 75, screening at least every three years will reduce these risks by roughly 215/10,000 and 107/10,000, respectively, which eventually prolongs the life expectancy of a woman in her 20s by around 96 days. According to the previous data, 26.1 percent of people are apprised of cervical cancer in the year 2020 in India. The cross-sectional study will be performed for assessing the awareness of cervical cancer through a digital questionnaire format in the year 2023 and expecting the result of awareness between 40% - 60% in the general population in Vidarbha.
Demographic change and urban health: Towards a novel agenda for delivering sustainable and healthy cities for all
Authors: Duminy James , Ezeh Alex , Galea Sandro , Harpham Trudy , Montgomery Mark R. , Salas J. M. Ian , Weber Daniela , Weimann Amy , You Danzhen
Published: August 2023

The focus is on the demographic drivers and demographic implications of urban health and wellbeing in towns and cities across the globe. The aim is to identify key linkages between demographic change and urban health – subjects of two largely disparate fields of research and practice – with a view to informing arguments and advocacy for urban health while identifying research gaps and priorities. The core arguments are threefold. First, urban health advocates should express a globalized perspective on demographic processes, encompassing age-structural shifts in addition to population growth and decrease, and acknowledging their uneven spatial distributions within and between urban settings in different contexts. Second, advocates should recognize the dynamic and transformational effects that demographic forces will exert on economic and political systems in all urban settings. While demographic forces underpin the production of (intra)urban inequities in health, they also present opportunities to address those inequities. Third, a demographic perspective may help to extend urban health thinking and intervention beyond a biomedical model of disease, highlighting the need for a multi-generational view of the changing societal bases for urban health, and enjoining significant advances in how interested parties collect, manage, analyse, and use demographic data. Accordingly, opportunities are identified to increase the availability of granular and accurate data to enable evidence-informed action on the demographic/health nexus.
Case Report: Post herpes zoster comedones: A new entity under Wolf’s isotopic response
Authors: Gupta Kunal , Khan Arshiya , Kashikar Yash , Jawade Sugat , Madke Bhushan
Published: August 2023

The emergence of a completely new skin condition at the precise location of a different, unrelated and previously healed skin disease is referred to as a "Wolf's isotopic response". It is also referred as post-herpetic isotopic response because it typically manifests after contracting the varicella-zoster virus causing herpes zoster. Wolf’s isotopic response is a rare, unique and widely accepted phenomenon. In this study, we discuss the various theories proposed behind its etiology. Further studies can help us understand the pathomechanism behind the localization of skin diseases thereby, helping us manage the condition effectively. Here, we describe a case of a 36-year-old male who presented in the outpatient department with multiple open and closed comedones distributed along the site of T2 dermatome previously infected by herpes zoster infection. Dermoscopic examination revealed multiple, round, brown-colored follicular keratinous plugs with peri-lesional erythema. Histopathological analysis showed a large dilated follicular canal containing orthokeratotic stratum corneum consistent with closed comedone formation. The patient was diagnosed with post-herpetic zosteriform comedones and was prescribed oral isotretinoin 20 mg, topical tretinoin 0.05% cream with a moisturizer and asked to follow up regularly. The lesions gradually healed over a five-month period. In our case, timely medical intervention helped preventing the further progression of the disease. However, further studies involving large sample sizes can help us identify the underlying mechanism behind this phenomenon.
Prostitutes, sailors and professionals - lived experiences of medical school students and staff with tattoos
Authors: McConville Kevin , Agwan Shubham
Published: August 2023

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of medical school students and staff to uncover gaps in policy and its effects on those with tattoos. Methods: Adopting a phenomenological design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten medical teaching staff and students who had tattoos, within one university medical school. Five key themes emerged: tattoo motives, tattoo content, positive and negative views on tattoos and challenges for establishing policy. Results: Findings suggested that no existing stigma towards staff or students exists, however, there is an absence in existing policy regarding tattoos. Participants’ motivations for obtaining tattoos mirrored those of the public, most commonly being artistic expression. Images of tattoos related to nature were common. Views on tattoos suggested the need for a full reform of ‘dress code’ policy for the profession. Several ethically laden scenarios were espoused, highlighting the need for an official stance on tattoos. Policy discussions flagged challenges for those who construct such documents; cultural and generational differences being commonly identified by participants. Conclusions: Universally there was uncertainty on current policy, with no individual able to recount specific guidance. The existence of a hidden curriculum surrounding tattoos within medical school further increases the need for guidance reform.
Can we find the missing men in clinics? Clinic attendance by sex and HIV status in rural South Africa
Authors: Randera-Rees Safiyya , Clarence Safari Wende , Gareta Dickman , Herbst Kobus , Baisley Kathy , Grant Alison D.
Published: August 2023

Background: HIV-negative men are over-represented in tuberculosis (TB) prevalence surveys including the first South African national TB prevalence survey in 2018. Traditionally, TB screening is focused in clinics. We aimed to determine the frequency of primary healthcare clinic (PHC) attendance among HIV-negative men in a TB-prevalent setting.

Methods: Since January 2017, PHC attendees in a rural South African demographic surveillance area (DSA) were asked their reason for attendance. HIV status was defined as positive if tested positive in a DSA sero-survey or attended clinic for HIV care; negative if tested negative between January 2014—December 2017 and no HIV-related visits; and HIV-unknown otherwise.

Results: Among 67124 DSA residents (≥15 years), 27038 (40.3%) were men; 14196 (21.2%) were classified HIV-positive, 18892 (28.1%) HIV-negative and 34036 (50.7%) HIV-unknown. Between April 2017 and March 2018, 24382/67124 (36.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 36.0–36.7) adults made ≥1 PHC visit, comprising 9805/40086 (24.5%, 95%CI 23.6–25.3) of HIV-negative or unknown women and 3440/27038 (12.7%, 95%CI 11.6–13.8) of HIV-negative or unknown men. Overall, HIV care accounted for 37556/88109 (42.6%) of adult PHC visits.

Conclusion: In this rural population, HIV-negative and -unknown men rarely attend PHCs. Improving TB screening in clinics may not reach a key population with respect to undiagnosed TB. Additional strategies are needed to diagnose and treat TB earlier.
Development of a System for Semi-Automatic Modeling of Three-Dimensional Images
Authors: Slavin R. , Kargin N. , Slavin Boris
Published: August 2023

Descriptive geometry is one of the main disciplines of the general engineering cycle. It presents methods of accurate representation of spatial objects on a plane, as well as the identification of geometric shapes of figures from given images. That is, this discipline is designed to give future engineers the knowledge and skills to build and read drawings.

By causing the intensive work of students' spatial thinking, descriptive geometry contributes to the development of spatial representation. In descriptive geometry, a flat image of a spatial object is called a plot (drawing).

Students studying descriptive geometry get acquainted with examples of practical use of the theoretical provisions of descriptive geometry in course and diploma design.

However, it is much easier to perceive drawings in volume if they can be rotated and viewed from different sides. For these purposes, you can not do without third-party software. Visualization of objects in the presence of a three-dimensional model is provided by Unity. But to create a three–dimensional model according to the drawing, other software is required - for example, Blender. Therefore, the authors set a goal: to create a semi-automatic visualization system for two-dimensional drawings in space based on Blender software and to develop comprehensive and simple documentation that will allow even people far from programming to use the program.

It is known that Blender is a powerful program for creating three-dimensional graphics that allows you to create various objects, scenes, animations, as well as edit them. Blender is a free and open source program available to anyone interested in three-dimensional modeling and computer graphics creation.

Among the Blender tools for creating three-dimensional models are powerful tools for modeling, sculpting, animation and visualization of objects and scenes. In Blender, you can also draw textures and create 3D animations using animation tools such as key frames.
The Political Game of the Roe v. Wade Overturn
Authors: Maszniew Zuzanna
Published: August 2023

The fall of Roe v. Wade reverts the U.S. to the pre-Roe status when the stateshad freedom of legislation on abortion. Consequently, the political aspect ofRoe v. Wade’s overturn shapes even deeper polarization of American society.The Supreme Court’s decision of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organizationwas widely discussed regarding the 2022 midterms as well as future presidentialelections and the balance of power in Congress. Once again, law andpolitics intertwine in the creation of American reality, as the Supreme Court’sdecision became a soft power game. Even the definition of abortion was putup for debate by Republicans before the midterms. The fall of Roe v. Wadedeveloped into a tool in the hands of politicians fighting for votes and power,whereas women’s bodies became an instrument in the pursuit of political aims.
Self-identification v. Sport Neutrality: Indigenous Athletes and the Olympic Games
Authors: Drabek Agata
Published: August 2023

The following article examines the 2021 controversy surrounding the OlympicCharter, specifically Charter Rule 50, and how it relates to Indigenousathletes. It cites various examples of Indigenous athletes who have representedAustralia and Canada at the Olympics, highlighting the ways inwhich they have tried to show their identity. It explains why showing tribalaffiliation is important for Indigenous athletes and communities. Finally,it argues that in the case of indigenous athletes, the ban on showing theiridentity is a manifestation of the ongoing oppression that colonized peoplesare subjected to.
Skoczny taniec nad przepaścią? Kontrowersje wokół działań USA wobec Chin w latach 2017-2022
Authors: Frejlich Michał
Published: August 2023

The years 2017-2022 appeared to be unusually groundbreaking and controversial in terms of the foreign policy of the USA. The article aims at presenting and analysing selected activities of the United States of America against the People’s Republic of China, connected with the rivarly of these powers. The author draws particular attention to the aspect of security and controversies caused by particular decisions.
Pricing Strategy of Competing Media Platforms
Authors: Amaldoss Wilfred , Du Jinzhao , Shin Woochoel
Published: August 2023

Competing media platforms’ equilibrium pricing strategies in the presence of cross-side externalities between consumers and advertisers and their endogenous homing decisions.
Bioindicadores y murciélagos: las batiseñales de la naturaleza
Authors: Sánchez-Pérez Ricardo , Aranda-Coello Manuel , Rico Chávez Oscar
Published: August 2023

Los bioindicadores brindan información sobre la composición y función de los ecosistemas, permitiendo conocer y evaluar su estado de perturbación, conservación y resiliencia. En este sentido, la simple presencia o ausencia de los murciélagos, puede resultar sumamente valiosa.
Cafetales: un hogar alternativo para los murciélagos
Authors: López-Flores Nohema A. , Morales-Mávil Jorge E. , Bello-Sánchez Edgar Ahmed
Published: August 2023

Los cafetales bajo sombra, por su diseño y estructura, brindan a los animales silvestres beneficios similares a los bosques originales. Los murciélagos son uno de los grupos que más se han beneficiado de este cultivo al ofrecerles refugio y alimento.
Assessing the risk of re-fracture related to the percentage of partial union in scaphoid waist fractures
Authors: Martin James , Johnson Nick A. , Shepherd Jenny , Dias Joseph
Published: August 2023

Aims

There is ambiguity surrounding the degree of scaphoid union required to safely allow mobilization following scaphoid waist fracture. Premature mobilization could lead to refracture, but late mobilization may cause stiffness and delay return to normal function. This study aims to explore the risk of refracture at different stages of scaphoid waist fracture union in three common fracture patterns, using a novel finite element method.

Methods

The most common anatomical variant of the scaphoid was modelled from a CT scan of a healthy hand and wrist using 3D Slicer freeware. This model was uploaded into COMSOL Multiphysics software to enable the application of physiological enhancements. Three common waist fracture patterns were produced following the Russe classification. Each fracture had differing stages of healing, ranging from 10% to 90% partial union, with increments of 10% union assessed. A physiological force of 100 N acting on the distal pole was applied, with the risk of refracture assessed using the Von Mises stress.

Results

Overall, 90% to 30% fracture unions demonstrated a small, gradual increase in the Von Mises stress of all fracture patterns (16.0 MPa to 240.5 MPa). All fracture patterns showed a greater increase in Von Mises stress from 30% to 10% partial union (680.8 MPa to 6,288.6 MPa).

Conclusion

Previous studies have suggested 25%, 50%, and 75% partial union as sufficient for resuming hand and wrist mobilization. This study shows that 30% union is sufficient to return to normal hand and wrist function in all three fracture patterns. Both 50% and 75% union are unnecessary and increase the risk of post-fracture stiffness. This study has also demonstrated the feasibility of finite element analysis (FEA) in scaphoid waist fracture research. FEA is a sustainable method which does not require the use of finite scaphoid cadavers, hence increasing accessibility into future scaphoid waist fracture-related research.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(8):612–620.
Wood Vinegars: Production Processes, Properties, and Valorization
Authors: Ouattara Hakim Abdel Aziz , Niamké Florence Bobelé , Yao Jean Claude , Amusant Nadine , Garnier Benjamin
Published: August 2023

Pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass is widely used for the production of charcoal, pyroligneous liquid, and noncondensable gases. All three are value-added products that are exploited in several fields. However, this review focuses on three main areas: wood vinegar production methods, its physicochemical properties, and the use of wood vinegar or pyroligneous acid in agriculture and the environment. Wood vinegar is a liquid derived from wood by the condensation of gases and vapors released during the carbonization process, which is the transformation of wood into charcoal. It is mainly composed of aliphatic, aromatic, and naphthenic hydrocarbons and other oxygenated compounds such as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, furans, acids, phenols, and ethers. Wood vinegar has antioxidant and free-radical-scavenging properties and is used in agriculture as an antimicrobial, antifungal, insecticide, and plant germination and growth agent. It is also used in food preservation, in medicine, and in the ecological preservation of wood. This review also examines the state of the art in pyroligneous liquid production techniques and factors that could potentially affect its quality.
You never can say ‘goodbye’: valuing and enhancing episodic re-volunteering
Authors: Rey-Garcia Marta , Mato-Santiso Vanessa , Meijs Lucas C.P.M. , Krasnopolskaya Irina
Published: August 2023

Research on evidence-based volunteer management, especially regarding episodic volunteering, is limited. Thus, we examine the influence of individual traits of event volunteers and the management practices employed by non-profit organisations on their likelihood to engage in future events. First, we revisit the value of episodic volunteering within the framework of regenerative volunteer management. We then compare factors affecting the inclination of event volunteers to re-volunteer for the same or for a different organisation based on a path analysis of 10,148 survey responses from event volunteers in 19 countries. Previous episodic volunteer experience, responsiveness, appreciation from supervisors and satisfaction with the event experience increase the probability that event volunteers will re-volunteer for both the same and different organisations. Moreover, assistance, service quality and comfort contribute indirectly by enhancing satisfaction with the volunteer experience. Effective management of event volunteering replenishes a valuable volunteer resource for both event organisers and other non-profit organisations.
Explaining sex discrepancies in sterilization rates in the United States: An evidence‐informed commentary
Authors: Mock K. Olivia , Moyer Anne , Lobel Marci
Published: August 2023

Context

With abortion no longer deemed a constitutional right in the United States (US), the importance of effective contraceptive methods cannot be overstated. Both male sterilization (vasectomy) and female sterilization (tubal ligation) have the lowest failure rates of available means of contraception. Despite the less invasive and reversible nature of vasectomy compared to tubal ligation procedures and even though some healthcare professionals dissuade certain women, especially those who are white and/or economically advantaged, from undergoing a sterilization procedure, female sterilization is approximately three times more prevalent than male sterilization in the US.

Purpose

We suggest that the discrepancy in sterilization rates is attributable to the burdens of pregnancy and birth experienced by women, beliefs that pregnancy prevention is a woman's responsibility, a dearth of sex education that results in lack of knowledge and poor understanding of contraception, perceptions of masculinity in which contraception is viewed as feminizing, and the increase in long‐term singlehood that shapes the desire of individuals to avoid unwanted pregnancy that may result in single parenting.

Implications

Recent reports suggest that court rulings restricting abortion access and looming threats to contraceptive legality and accessibility may be prompting a national increase in male sterilization.