bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemically Deposited Molecularly Imprinted Polymer-Based Sensors
Authors: Ramanavičius Simonas , Morkvėnaitė-Vilkončienė Inga , Samukaitė-Bubnienė Urtė , Ratautaitė Vilma , Plikusienė Ieva , Viter Roman , Ramanavičius Arūnas
Published: February 2022

This review is dedicated to the development of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) and the application of MIPs in sensor design. MIP-based biological recognition parts can replace receptors or antibodies, which are rather expensive. Conducting polymers show unique properties that are applicable in sensor design. Therefore, MIP-based conducting polymers, including polypyrrole, polythiophene, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), polyaniline and ortho-phenylenediamine are frequently applied in sensor design. Some other materials that can be molecularly imprinted are also overviewed in this review. Among many imprintable materials conducting polymer, polypyrrole is one of the most suitable for molecular imprinting of various targets ranging from small organics up to rather large proteins. Some attention in this review is dedicated to overview methods applied to design MIP-based sensing structures. Some attention is dedicated to the physicochemical methods applied for the transduction of analytical signals. Expected new trends and horizons in the application of MIP-based structures are also discussed.
Acoustic Dual-Function Communication and Echo-Location in Inaudible Band
Authors: Allegro Gabriele , Fascista Alessio , Coluccia Angelo
Published: February 2022

Acoustic communications are experiencing renewed interest as alternative solutions to traditional RF communications, not only in RF-denied environments (such as underwater) but also in areas where the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum is heavily shared among several wireless systems. By introducing additional dedicated channels, independent from the EM ones, acoustic systems can be used to ensure the continuity of some critical services such as communication, localization, detection, and sensing. In this paper, we design and implement a novel acoustic system that uses only low-cost off-the-shelf hardware and the transmission of a single, suitably designed signal in the inaudible band (18–22 kHz) to perform integrated sensing (ranging) and communication. The experimental testbed consists of a common home speaker transmitting acoustic signals to a smartphone, which receives them through the integrated microphone, and of an additional receiver exploiting the same signals to estimate distance information from a physical obstacle in the environment. The performance of the proposed dual-function system in terms of noise, data rate, and accuracy in distance estimation is experimentally evaluated in a real operational environment.
Fracture Detection in Wrist X-ray Images Using Deep Learning-Based Object Detection Models
Authors: Hardalaç Fırat , Uysal Fatih , Peker Ozan , Çiçeklidağ Murat , Tolunay Tolga , Tokgöz Nil , Kutbay Uğurhan , Demirciler Boran , Mert Fatih
Published: February 2022

Hospitals, especially their emergency services, receive a high number of wrist fracture cases. For correct diagnosis and proper treatment of these, images obtained from various medical equipment must be viewed by physicians, along with the patient’s medical records and physical examination. The aim of this study is to perform fracture detection by use of deep-learning on wrist X-ray images to support physicians in the diagnosis of these fractures, particularly in the emergency services. Using SABL, RegNet, RetinaNet, PAA, Libra R-CNN, FSAF, Faster R-CNN, Dynamic R-CNN and DCN deep-learning-based object detection models with various backbones, 20 different fracture detection procedures were performed on Gazi University Hospital’s dataset of wrist X-ray images. To further improve these procedures, five different ensemble models were developed and then used to reform an ensemble model to develop a unique detection model, ‘wrist fracture detection-combo (WFD-C)’. From 26 different models for fracture detection, the highest detection result obtained was 0.8639 average precision (AP50) in the WFD-C model. Huawei Turkey R&D Center supports this study within the scope of the ongoing cooperation project coded 071813 between Gazi University, Huawei and Medskor.
A Compact Fiber-Coupled NIR/MIR Laser Absorption Instrument for the Simultaneous Measurement of Gas-Phase Temperature and CO, CO2, and H2O Concentration
Authors: Shi Lin , Endres Torsten , Jeffries Jay B. , Dreier Thomas , Schulz Christof
Published: February 2022

A fiber-coupled, compact, remotely operated laser absorption instrument is developed for CO, CO2, and H2O measurements in reactive flows at the elevated temperatures and pressures expected in gas turbine combustor test rigs with target pressures from 1–25 bar and temperatures of up to 2000 K. The optical engineering for solutions of the significant challenges from the ambient acoustic noise (~120 dB) and ambient test rig temperatures (60 °C) are discussed in detail. The sensor delivers wavelength-multiplexed light in a single optical fiber from a set of solid-state lasers ranging from diodes in the near-infrared (~1300 nm) to quantum cascade lasers in the mid-infrared (~4900 nm). Wavelength-multiplexing systems using a single optical fiber have not previously spanned such a wide range of laser wavelengths. Gas temperature is inferred from the ratio of two water vapor transitions. Here, the design of the sensor, the optical engineering required for simultaneous fiber delivery of a wide range of laser wavelengths on a single optical line-of-sight, the engineering required for sensor survival in the harsh ambient environment, and laboratory testing of sensor performance in the exhaust gas of a flat flame burner are presented.
People-Centred Development of a Smart Waste Bin
Authors: Guna Jože , Horvat Katarina Polajnar , Podjed Dan
Published: February 2022

The study presented in this article focuses on the role of a smart waste bin (waste container) designed for waste management and explores what types of interventions people consider more appropriate in promoting environmentally responsible behaviour—based on norms or on an individual’s emotions. The smart waste bin development process was people-centred and paid particular attention to human experiences, allowing for various interaction modalities. By incorporating various sensors for waste volume and weight measurement in conjunction with presence and user identification capabilities, the experience was personalised. User feedback was collected by an extensive survey, consisting of four systematic sections, where values, attitudes, norms, perceived behavioural control, behavioural intention and actual behaviour were examined. The survey was completed by 194 respondents. The results showed that participants at the declarative level show a high level of environmental awareness and are very much willing to handle waste appropriately. Additionally, the results of the R&D process indicated that relatively cheap and efficient technological solutions can be developed to support waste management and sustainable lifestyles if the human-centred approach is taken into account.
Monitoring Particulate Matter with Wearable Sensors and the Influence on Student Environmental Attitudes
Authors: Kane Frances , Abbate Joseph , Landahl Eric C. , Potosnak Mark J.
Published: February 2022

The mobile monitoring of air pollution is a growing field, prospectively filling in spatial gaps while personalizing air-quality-based risk assessment. We developed wearable sensors to record particulate matter (PM), and through a community science approach, students of partnering Chicago high schools monitored PM concentrations during their commutes over a five- and thirteen-day period. Our main objective was to investigate how mobile monitoring influenced students’ environmental attitudes and we did this by having the students explore the relationship between PM concentrations and urban vegetation. Urban vegetation was approximated with a normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) using Landsat 8 satellite imagery. While the linear regression for one partner school indicated a negative correlation between PM and vegetation, the other indicated a positive correlation, contrary to our expectations. Survey responses were scored on the basis of their environmental affinity and knowledge. There were no significant differences between cumulative pre- and post-experiment survey responses at Josephinum Academy, and only one weakly significant difference in survey results at DePaul Prep in the Knowledge category. However, changes within certain attitudinal subscales may possibly suggest that students were inclined to practice more sustainable behaviors, but perhaps lacked the resources to do so.
Synthesis, Structural Characterization, and Biological Activities of Organically Templated Cobalt Phosphite (H2DAB)[Co(H2PO3)4]·2H2O
Authors: Hamdi Najlaa , Chaouch Souad , da Silva Ivan , Ezahri Mohamed , Lachkar Mohammed , Alhasan Rama , Abdin Ahmad Yaman , Jacob Claus , Bali Brahim El
Published: February 2022

A novel hybrid cobalt phosphite, (H2DAB)[Co(H2PO3)4] 2H2O, was synthesized by using a slow evaporation method in the presence of cobalt nitrate, phosphorous acid, and 1,4-diaminobutane (DAB = 1,4-diaminobutane) as a structure-directing agent. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the compound crystallizes in the triclinic system (space group P-1(n.2)) with the following unit cell parameters (Å, °) a = 5.4814 (3), b = 7.5515 (4), c = 10.8548 (6), α = 88.001 (4), β = 88.707 (5), γ = 85.126 (5), and V = 447.33 (4) Å3. The crystal structure is built up from corner-sharing [CoO6] octahedra, forming chains parallel to [001], which are interconnected by H2PO3− pseudo-tetrahedral units. The diprotonated cations, residing between the parallel chains, interact with the inorganic moiety via hydrogen bonds, thus leading to the formation of the 3D crystal structure. The Fourier transform infrared spectrum showed characteristic bands corresponding to the phosphite group and the organic amine. The thermal behavior of the compound mainly consisted of the loss of its organic moiety and the water molecules. The biological tests exhibited significant activity against Candida albicans and Escherichia coli strains at different concentrations, while less inhibitory activity was pronounced against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and in the case of multi-cellular organisms, no activity against the nematode model Steinernema feltiae was detected.
Proof-of-Concept Preclinical Use of Drosophila melanogaster in the Initial Screening of Immunomodulators
Authors: Nainu Firzan , Bahar Muh. Akbar , Sartini Sartini , Rosa Reski Amalia , Rahmah Nur , Kamri Reski Amelia , Rumata Nur Rahma , Yulianty Risfah , Wahyudin Elly
Published: February 2022

Drug discovery is a complex process, and the use of a comprehensive approach is deemed necessary to discover new chemical entities with novel mechanisms of action. This research was carried out to determine whether Drosophila melanogaster can serve as an appropriate model organism in the initial screening of drug candidates with immunomodulatory activities. To test this, we performed phenotypic assay and molecular analysis to investigate the immunomodulatory activities of aspirin, dexamethasone, curcumin, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), that have been reported to yield such effects in the mammalian model system. In vivo survival analysis demonstrated that all drugs/compounds were relatively safe at the tested concentrations. In the infection assay, curcumin and EGCG showed a protective signature to bacterial infection in flies lacking Toll-mediated immune responses. Furthermore, dexamethasone and aspirin, drugs with immunosuppressive activity, could improve the survival of PGRP-LBΔ mutant flies with hyperactivated immune system. These phenotypes were supported by RT-qPCR-based molecular analysis, revealing that drugs/compounds used in this study could modulate the expression level of genes related to the immune system. In conclusion, while curcumin and EGCG could promote the improvement of fly survival against infection, aspirin and dexamethasone were able to suppress overactivation of immune responses in D. melanogaster. These results are in line with the ones observed in the mammalian model system, further emphasizing the notion that flies would serve as a prospective model organism in the initial screening of drug candidates for their immunomodulatory activities prior to further checking in the mammalian animal models. In the end, this will reduce the use of mammalian animal models for preliminary experiments in an effort to discover/repurpose drugs with immunomodulatory activity.
Comparing and Predicting Inconsistency on Positive and Negative Life Experiences Reports: Which Variables Matter?
Authors: Azevedo Vanessa , Martins Carla , Maia Ângela
Published: February 2022

Most studies about life experiences and their long-term impact have relied on retrospective assessments and cross-sectional designs. However, there are concerns about the inconsistency of reports, which have been addressed in a limited scope. This study aimed to compare differences on inconsistency between positive and negative experiences to describe potential patterns and to identify sociodemographic, experiences-related and design-related predictors of inconsistency. Adults from community (N = 171) reported their life experiences twice, through self-report or interview. An overall trend of overreporting was found for positive and negative experiences. Additionally, inconsistency on positive experiences was higher than on negative although both variables were correlated. Regarding predictors of inconsistency, the model explained greater variance for negative experiences than for the positive ones. Nevertheless, most variables did not predict inconsistency, with few exceptions: impact for positive experiences, total of experiences for negative experiences, and time interval was marginally significant for both. Available data comparing inconsistency on positive and negative experiences as well as associated predictors are incipient. Overall, it seems that we know more about variables not involved in inconsistency than those that matter. Due to its relevancy, this issue should be further examined.
The Effect of Cultural Intelligence, Conflict, and Transformational Leadership on Decision-Making Processes in Virtual Teams
Authors: Davidaviciene Vida , Al Majzoub Khaled
Published: February 2022

The rapid development of information and communication technology (ICT) has resulted in several improvements in diverse aspects of the organizational structures, including the introduction of virtual teams (VTs). Organizations rely on VTs since they bring a lot of benefits, such as the enhancement of organizational performance. However, effective VTs cannot exist without the proper implementation of decision-making processes. There is a lack of scientific research that attempts to understand the factors affecting decision-making processes in VTs. Studies in this area have only been conducted in the United States and Europe. However, such research has not been conducted in the Middle East, where specific scientific solutions are still required to improve the performance of VTs. Therefore, this study is conducted in the Middle East to gain scientific knowledge on this region’s specificity. Thus, the objective of this study is to identify the factors that affect VT decision-making processes. An online survey was used to collect data (Google forms) from companies in the IT industry in UAE, which are engaged in VTs. A literature review, survey methods, and structural equation modeling were used. The results showed that culture intelligence (CQ), transformational leadership (TL), and task conflict have a positive effect on VT decision-making processes, and relationship conflict has a negative impact on VT decision-making processes, which provides the management teams with a guideline on what to concentrate on in the measuring and enhancement of the effectiveness of VT decision making.
Upscaling via a Prospective LCA: A Case Study on Tomato Homogenate Using a Near-to-Market Pasteurisation Technology
Authors: Calero Maria , Clemente Gabriela , Fartdinov Dinar , Bañón Sancho , Muñoz Israel , Sanjuán Neus
Published: February 2022

Thanks to food technology, the production of cold tomato soups such as salmorejo, a traditional Spanish dish, has become industrialised. Thermal treatments play an important role in ready-to-eat meals, prolonging their shelf-life. Radiofrequency (RF) heating is less energy-intensive than conventional heat exchangers and has been successfully used to pasteurise food; novel applications, however, provide results at laboratory or pilot scale, so conclusions might not be translatable to industry. In this study, a prospective Life-Cycle Assessment of salmorejo pasteurised using RF was performed to highlight the relevance of upscaling and to compare its environmental impacts with those of conventional pasteurisation. “Gate-to-gate” results show that the pilot has greater environmental impacts due to its greater energy consumption, as thermal energy is not recovered. The packing and landfill of organic waste exhibit the highest impacts at industrial scale. RF technology does not imply significant environmental improvements versus conventional pasteurisation. Potential changes in the energy background of future scenarios have relevant consequences in the environmental impacts. “Farm-to-factory-gate” analysis highlights ingredients and tomato valorisation as the most impacting stages. The prospective LCA of scaled up scenarios constitutes a tool for environmental screening in food ecodesign, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 12.
Relying on Technology for Countering Academic Dishonesty: The Impact of Online Tutorial on Students’ Perception of Academic Misconduct
Authors: Djokovic Rajka , Janinovic Jovana , Pekovic Sanja , Vuckovic Dijana , Blecic Marijana
Published: February 2022

Over the last several decades, the issue of academic integrity has emerged as one of the major concerns of higher education institutions throughout the world. Amongst different strategies for combating academic dishonesty, educational interventions in the form of online tutorials are becoming increasingly popular. In this paper, we empirically examine, using a sample of Montenegrin students and the matching method, the relation between online tutorials and four forms of student misconduct, namely cheating, plagiarism, fabrication or falsification, and aiding and abetting academic dishonesty. In addition, we examine whether students that received the certificate after passing an academic integrity test in online tutorial perceived different forms of academic misconduct more seriously than students who participated in the online tutorial but did not receive the certificate. Our results indicate that online tutorial can be useful for enhancing students’ awareness of certain types of academic dishonesty (cheating, fabricating/falsifying, and aiding/abetting), while for others (plagiarism), it remains ineffective. Similarly, we found that getting a certificate after completing tutorial did not amplify students’ attitudes towards certain dishonest behaviors (cheating or fabrication/falsification), but it enhanced students’ perceived seriousness of plagiarism and aiding/abetting dishonesty. The result of this analysis may have important implications for university managers and policy makers when designing strategies for combating particular types of dishonesty in academia.
Boosting Sustainability through Digital Transformation’s Domains and Resilience
Authors: Hajishirzi Reihaneh , Costa Carlos J. , Aparicio Manuela
Published: February 2022

Sustainability is a must for all businesses in all industries. It can boost company image and productivity while being aligned with customer needs. On the other hand, digital transformation (DT) is vital for business environments, and organizations need to be resilient in the face of crises such as COVID-19. The main objective of our study is to figure out how DT and organizational resilience might help businesses become more sustainable. This study presents a model that explains social, environmental, and economic sustainability considering the domains of DT and organizational resilience. Our model is evaluated on the data gathered by 208 c-suite leaders from various Iranian companies. The model was empirically validated through a quantitative method of Partial Least Squares/Structural Equation Modeling (PLS/SEM) technique. The findings reveal that the five studied factors have substantial impact on the sustainability of Iranian organizations including data-driven, business process innovation, customer engagement, organizational resilience, and competitive advantages.
Shared Logistic Service for Resilient Agri-Food System: Study of E-Commerce for Local and B2B Markets in Japan
Authors: Lin Kaiyuan , Ishihara Hiroe , Tsai Chialin , Hung Shihhan , Mizoguchi Masaru
Published: February 2022

Escalating intensification and homogenization occurring throughout the supply chain poses serious challenges to the global food supply. Several approaches have been developed to shift the food systems to a more resilient path; however, the high unit costs of shipping impede its development. This paper proposes a shared logistic service supported by E-commerce as a solution to this problem. It analyzes the shared logistic system developed by Vegibus Ins. in Japan which has unique features, such as fixed routes. It argues that the logistic service has the ability to connect different scales while supporting flexible transactions leading to the construction of a resilient agri-food system. At the same time, the paper points out the need for subsidies from the governments to facilitate this kind of shared logistic service at the initial stage as one limitation to this approach.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Sustainability in 2021
Authors:   Sustainability Editorial Office
Published: February 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Research on Reliability of Structural Members Subjected to Snow or Wind Load for Design Working Life of 100 Years in China
Authors: Cheng Kaikai , Yao Jitao , Lv Gao , Liu Naifei , Zhang Yuwei
Published: February 2022

Various national and international standards for building structures and other common structures specify a design working life of 50 years. Therefore, the statistical parameters of loads and the design expressions in current design codes are also based on a design reference period of 50 years. When the design working life is not 50 years, the variable load adjustment factor for the design working life needs to be considered. The corresponding load adjustment factors of office building live load, residential live load, snow load, and wind load are given in (GB50153-2008), (GB50009-2012), and (GB50068-2018) with different design working life (5, 10, 20, 30, 75 and 100 years), respectively. However, the recommended values presented in these documents are inconsistent and no provisions are found in those specifications for the selection of load design parameters in the design expression, which will result in designers having doubts in choosing design parameters, especially for building structures designed for a working life of 100 years. Using different design parameters in the design expression, the implied reliability level of the members with a design working life of 100 years was clarified in the paper. Furthermore, guidance for the specification in actual design is provided. For structural members designed for working life of 100 years, 14 representative structural members were selected to calculate their partial factors of resistance. Considering two simple combinations (dead load and wind load, dead load and snow load) and common load effect ratios, the reliability analysis of each member are carried out according to the load partial factors in China’s old and new codes. The study indicated that the structural importance coefficient of 1.1 needs to be taken in the design expression to increase all the load effects on the structural members designed for 100 years. The basic wind pressure and snow pressure should be taken with a return period of 100 years and the variable load adjustment factor for the design working life should not be considered.
Geopolymer Concrete Performance Study for High-Temperature Thermal Energy Storage (TES) Applications
Authors: Rahjoo Mohammad , Goracci Guido , Martauz Pavel , Rojas Esther , Dolado Jorge S.
Published: February 2022

Solar energy is an energy intermittent source that faces a substantial challenge for its power dispatchability. Hence, concentrating solar power (CSP) plants and solar process heat (SPH) applications employ thermal energy storage (TES) technologies as a link between power generation and optimal load distribution. Ordinary Portland cement (OPC)-based materials are widely used in sensible TES, but their use is limited to operation temperatures below 400 to 500 °C because of thermal degradation processes. This work proposes a geopolymer (GEO)-based concrete as a suitable alternative to OPC concrete for TES that withstands high running temperatures, higher than 500 °C. To this end, thermophysical properties of a geopolymer-based concrete sample were initially measured experimentally; later, energy storage capacity and thermal behavior of the GEO sample were modeled numerically. In fact, different thermal scenarios were modeled, revealing that GEO-based concrete can be a sound choice due to its thermal energy storage capacity, high thermal diffusivity and capability to work at high temperature regimes.
A Software Reliability Model with Dependent Failure and Optimal Release Time
Authors: Kim Youn Su , Song Kwang Yoon , Pham Hoang , Chang In Hong
Published: February 2022

In the past, because computer programs were restricted to perform only simple functions, the dependence on software was not large, resulting in relatively small losses after a failure. However, with the development of the software market, the dependence on software has increased considerably, and software failures can cause significant social and economic losses. Software reliability studies were previously conducted under the assumption that software failures occur independently. However, as software systems become more complex and extremely large, software failures are becoming frequently interdependent. Therefore, in this study, a software reliability model is developed under the assumption that software failures occur in a dependent manner. We derive the software reliability model through the number of software failure and fault detection rate assuming point symmetry. The proposed model proves good performance compared with 21 previously developed software reliability models using three datasets and 11 criteria. In addition, to find the optimal release time, a cost model using the developed software reliability model was presented. To determine this release time, four parameters constituting the software reliability model were changed by 10%. By comparing the change in the cost model and the optimal release time, it was found that parameter b had the greatest influence.
Review of Fiber- or Yarn-Based Wearable Resistive Strain Sensors: Structural Design, Fabrication Technologies and Applications
Authors: Huang Fei , Hu Jiyong , Yan Xiong
Published: February 2022

Flexible textile strain sensors that can be directly integrated into clothing have attracted much attention due to their great potential in wearable human health monitoring systems and human–computer interactions. Fiber- or yarn-based strain sensors are promising candidate materials for flexible and wearable electronics due to their light weights, good stretchability, high intrinsic and structural flexibility, and flexible integrability. This article investigates representative conductive materials, traditional and novel preparation methods and the structural design of fiber- or yarn-based resistive strain sensors as well as the interconnection and encapsulation of sensing fibers or yarns. In addition, this review summarizes the effects of the conductive materials, preparation strategy and structures on the crucial sensing performance. Discussions will be presented regarding the applications of fiber- or yarn-based resistive strain sensors. Finally, this article summarizes the bottleneck of current fiber- or yarn-based resistive strain sensors in terms of conductive materials, fabrication techniques, integration and performance, as well as scientific understanding, and proposes future research directions.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Urban Science in 2021
Authors:   Urban Science Editorial Office
Published: February 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Molecular Characterization and Pathogenicity of a Novel Soybean-Infecting Monopartite Geminivirus in China
Authors: Du Min , Wang Yongzhi , Chen Cheng , Li Xiaoyu , Feng Runzi , Zhou Xueping , Yang Xiuling
Published: February 2022

Soybean is a major legume crop that plays an important role in food production, industrial production, and animal husbandry. Here, we characterize a novel soybean-infecting monopartite geminivirus identified in China. Analysis of the contigs de novo assembled from sequenced small interfering RNAs, followed by PCR, cloning, and sequencing, the complete viral genome was determined to be 2782 nucleotides. The genome contains the conserved nonanucleotide sequence, TAATATTAC and other sequence features typical of the family Geminiviridae, and encodes two and four open reading frames in the virion-sense and the complementary-sense strands, respectively. Genome-wide pairwise identity analysis revealed that the novel virus shares less than 65.6% identity with previously characterized geminiviruses. Phylogenetic and recombination analysis indicated that this virus was placed in a unique taxon within the family Geminiviridae and potentially arose from recombination. An infectious clone of this virus was further constructed and its infectivity was tested in different species of plants. Successful infection and characteristic symptoms were observed in Glycine max, Nicotiana benthamiana, N. tabacum, N. glutinosa, and N. tabacum cv. Samsun plants. Taken together, this virus represents a member of an unclassified genus of the family Geminiviridae, for which the name soybean yellow leaf curl virus is proposed.
Known Cellular and Receptor Interactions of Animal and Human Coronaviruses: A Review
Authors: Everest Holly , Stevenson-Leggett Phoebe , Bailey Dalan , Bickerton Erica , Keep Sarah
Published: February 2022

This article aims to review all currently known interactions between animal and human coronaviruses and their cellular receptors. Over the past 20 years, three novel coronaviruses have emerged that have caused severe disease in humans, including SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome virus 2); therefore, a deeper understanding of coronavirus host–cell interactions is essential. Receptor-binding is the first stage in coronavirus entry prior to replication and can be altered by minor changes within the spike protein—the coronavirus surface glycoprotein responsible for the recognition of cell-surface receptors. The recognition of receptors by coronaviruses is also a major determinant in infection, tropism, and pathogenesis and acts as a key target for host-immune surveillance and other potential intervention strategies. We aim to highlight the need for a continued in-depth understanding of this subject area following on from the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, with the possibility for more zoonotic transmission events. We also acknowledge the need for more targeted research towards glycan–coronavirus interactions as zoonotic spillover events from animals to humans, following an alteration in glycan-binding capability, have been well-documented for other viruses such as Influenza A.
Cytomegalovirus Diseases of the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Yeh Pai-Jui , Wu Ren-Chin , Chiu Cheng-Tang , Lai Ming-Wei , Chen Chien-Ming , Pan Yu-Bin , Su Ming-Yao , Kuo Chia-Jung , Lin Wey-Ran , Le Puo-Hsien
Published: February 2022

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can be fatal. However, very few studies have provided comprehensive analyses and specified the differences in symptoms observed in different parts of the GI tract. This study aimed to comprehensively analyze clinical manifestations and management of GI CMV disease. This retrospective cohort study enrolled the patients who had CMV diseases of the GI tract proved by CMV immunohistochemistry stain from the pathology database in a 4000-bed tertiary medical center between January 2000 and May 2021. The patient characteristics, clinical manifestations, endoscopic features, treatments, outcomes, and prognostic factors were analyzed. A total of 356 patients were enrolled, including 46 infected in the esophagus, 76 in the stomach, 30 in the small intestine, and 204 in the colon. In total, 49.4% patients were immunocompromised. The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 20.8%: CMV enteritis had the highest rate (23.3%). Sixty percent of patients received antiviral treatment and 16% were administered both intravenous and oral anti-viral drugs (Combo therapy, minimal and mean treatment duration were 14 and 39.9 ± 25 days). Prognostic factors of in-hospital mortality included age, immune status, albumin level, platelet count, GI bleeding, time-to-diagnosis, and Combo therapy. In the survival analysis, immunocompetent patients receiving Combo therapy had the best survival curve, and immunocompromised patients receiving non-Combo therapy had the worst survival curve. Combo therapy ≥14 days resulted in a better outcome for both immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients. In conclusion, CMV GI diseases affect both immunocompromised and immunocompetent hosts, and a complete treatment course should be considered for patients with poor prognostic factors.
The potential of general practice to support young people who self-harm: a narrative review
Authors: Mughal Faraz , Dikomitis Lisa , Babatunde Opeyemi O , Chew-Graham Carolyn A
Published: February 2022

Background

Self-harm in young people is a growing public health concern. Young people commonly present to their GP for help with self-harm, and thus general practice may be a key setting to support young people who have self-harmed.

Aim

To examine the potential of general practice to support young people aged 10–25 years who have harmed themselves.

Design & setting

A narrative review of published and grey literature.

Method

The Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles (SANRA) was used to guide a narrative review to examine the potential of general practice to support young people who have self-harmed. The evidence is presented textually.

Results

The included evidence showed that GPs have a key role in supporting young people, and they sometimes relied on gut feeling when handling uncertainty on how to help young people who had self-harmed. Young people described the importance of initial clinician responses after disclosing self-harm, and if they were perceived to be negative, the self-harm could become worse.

Conclusion

In context of the evidence included, this review found that general practice is a key setting for the identification and management of self-harm in young people; but improvements are needed to enhance general practice care for young people to fulfil its potential.
Monitoramento a usuários pós-AVC na Atenção Primária: uma revisão sistemática
Authors: Braz Cinthya Heloisa , Gonçalves Laura Faustino , Rech Cassiano Ricardo , Haas Patricia , Paiva Karina Mary
Published: February 2022

Introdução. Aproximadamente 60% dos pacientes ficam com sequelas motoras, cognitivas e distúrbios de comunicação. Objetivo. Apresentar evidências científicas com base em revisão sistemática da literatura achados referentes ao monitoramento de usuários pós-AVC na atenção primária. Método. Para a seleção dos estudos foi utilizada a combinação baseada no Medical Subject Heading Terms (MeSH). Foram utilizadas as bases de dados MEDLINE (Pubmed), LILACS, SciELO, SCOPUS, WEB OF SCIENCE e BIREME. Sem restrição de idioma, período e localização. Resultados. Foram identificados 88 artigos inicialmente, dos quais 25 foram para a avaliação de resumos. Desses, 22 foram excluídos por não responderem a pergunta norteadora. Procedeu-se a leitura na íntegra dos 2 artigos e após a aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade, no qual foram inclusos na pesquisa. Conclusão. Os estudos mostraram uma evolução significativa dos pacientes que realizaram acompanhamento na atenção primária pós-AVC, demonstrando assim a sua importância de continuidade de intervenção após a alta hospitalar.
Features of the Ultrastructural Organization of a Placenta Previa
Authors: Лакатош П.В. , Стеченко Л.А. , Венцковский Б.М. , Лакатош В.П. , Поладич И.В. , Антонюк М.И.
Published: February 2022

Введение. Предлежание плаценты является одной из важных проблем в современном акушерстве, так как аномалии ее расположения в нетипичном месте являются основной причиной массивных акушерских кровотечений. Кровотечения, возникающие во время беременности или в родах, характеризуются высоким риском материнской и перинатальной смертности. Цель исследования - оценить морфофункциональные изменения в плаценте у беременных с предлежанием плаценты. Материалы и методы. Обследовано 122 беременных с предлежанием плаценты, которые в течение 2005-2020 гг. были госпитализированы в Перинатальный центр г. Киева и родоразрешены в сроке гестации 36+6 недель и 38-39 недель беременности. 10 пациентам с предлежанием плаценты было произведено электронно-микроскопическое исследование плаценты. Результаты. Установили, что при предлежании плаценты в нижнем сегменте матки четко отслеживаются изменения в элементах гемохориального (плацентарного) барьера. Прежде всего, наблюдаются обтурация просветов кровеносных капилляров и отек эндотелиального выстеленных эндотелиоцитов и окружающей их соединительной ткани, в которой отмечаются пузыри с жидкостью отека, истончение выстеленных лимфатических сосудов. В венулярных сосудах определяется сладж-феномен, характеризующийся адгезией и агрегацией форменных элементов крови, что приводит к нарушению микроциркуляции и гипоксии.

Introduction. Placenta previa is one of the important problems in modern obstetrics, as abnormalities in the location of the placenta in an atypical location are the main cause of massive obstetric bleeding. Bleeding occurring during pregnancy or childbirth is characterized by a high risk of maternal and perinatal mortality. The purpose of the study was to evaluate morphofunctional changes in the placenta in pregnant women with placenta previa. Materials and methods. We examined 122 pregnant women who were hospitalized and delivered at the Perinatal Center of Kyiv during 2005-2020 of the gestation period of 36 + 6 weeks and 38- 39 weeks of pregnancy. Electron microscopic examination of the placenta was performed in 10 patients with placenta previa. Results. It was found that in the placenta in the conditions of presentation in the lower pole of the uterus clearly observed changes in the elements of the hemochorionic (placental) barrier. First of all, there is obstruction of the lumens of blood capillaries and edema of the endothelial lining. In venular vessels the sludge phenomenon characterized by adhesion and aggregation of uniform elements of blood is defined, leads to disturbance of microcirculation and hypoxia.
Anxiety and Aggression in the Context of COVID-19: Sex and Cultural Differences (on the Example of Minsk and Moscow)
Authors: Буркова В.Н. , Каспарова Е.Н. , Бутовская М.Л.
Published: February 2022

В статье представлены на примере двух крупных городов (столиц) – Москвы (Россия) и Минска (Беларусь) – результаты исследования культурных и половых различий уровня тревожности и агрессии во время первой волны пандемии COVID-19 в зависимости от принятых мер в каждой стране.Материалы и методы. В Минске опрошены 239 человек (110 мужчин и 129 женщин, средний возраст 19,47±3,27), в Москве – 233 человека (67 мужчин и 166 женщин, средний возраст 23,41±7,19). Для оценки уровня тревожности были использованы шкала ГТР-7 и опросник ситуативной тревожности Ч. Спилбергера, уровня агрессивного поведения – опросник Басса – Перри.Результаты. Полученные по обоим опросникам тревожности результаты указывают на больший уровень тревожности женщин по сравнению с мужчинами как в минской, так и в московской выборках. При этом кросс-культурное сравнение данных показало, что уровень тревожности, равно как и агрессии, выше у русских респондентов из Москвы по сравнению с беларусами из Минска. На повышение уровня тревоги значимо влияют такие факторы, как агрессивная реакция на официальные сообщения в России и Беларуси, а также изменения дохода на фоне пандемии в Беларуси.Выводы. При сравнении уровня тревоги и агрессии в двух выборках можно заключить, что москвичи, по сравнению с минчанами, были более стрессированы и агрессивны в период первой волны распространения коронавируса.

The article presents the results of the study of cultural and sex differences in the level of anxiety and aggression during the “first” wave of the COVID-19 pandemic depending on the restrictions taken in each country, using two major cities (capitals) – Moscow (Russia) and Minsk (Belarus) as examples. Materials and methods. In Minsk, 239 people (110 men and 129 women; mean age – 19.47±3.27), in Moscow, 233 people (67 men and 166 women; mean age – 23.41±7.19) were interviewed. The GAD-7 scale and the Spielberger Situational Anxiety Inventory were used to assess the level of anxiety; the Bass – Perry questionnaire was used to assess the level of aggressive behavior.Results. There was demonstrated a higher level of anxiety among women if compared to men in both samples (Minsk and Moscow). A cross-cultural comparison of the data revealed that the levels of anxiety and aggression were higher among Russian respondents from Moscow if compared to the Belarusians from Minsk. The factors of aggressive reactions to official prescriptions in Russia and Belarus and change of income during the pandemic in Belarus had a significant influence on the increased level of anxiety.Conclusion. Comparing of the level of anxiety and aggression in the two samples showed that Moscow respondents were more stressed and aggressive during the first wave of coronavirus spread.
Evidence Base for the Use of Alpha-Interferon Preparations for ARVI
Authors: Жильцов И.В. , Голубев С.А. , Брухнов А.В. , Шнипов А.С.
Published: February 2022

В настоящее время клиническая эффективность препаратов рекомбинантных альфа-интерферонов при острых респираторных вирусных инфекциях (ОРВИ) является предметом интенсивных дискуссий медицинских специалистов. Мы проанализировали опубликованные результаты и качество клинических исследований, посвященных оценке клинической эффективности и безопасности препаратов альфа-интерферонов для применения при ОРВИ, и в частности при COVID-19. Показано, что данные лекарственные средства, применяемые интраназально, могут быть эффективны в постконтактной профилактике ОРВИ (прежде всего риновирусной инфекции, в меньшей степени - других ОРВИ, включая сезонный грипп). Интраназальное применение ИФН-α2 также несколько облегчает течение случаев ОРВИ, развившихся на фоне подобной профилактики. Профилактическая и терапевтическая эффективность препаратов интерферонов при COVID-19 возможна, однако нуждается в дальнейшем подтверждении в клинических исследованиях. При этом местное применение препаратов ИФН-α2 для профилактики и лечения различных ОРВИ является достаточно безопасным.

Currently, the clinical efficacy of recombinant alpha-interferon preparations in acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) is a subject for intense discussion among medical specialists. We have analyzed the published results of clinical trials defined by satisfactory methodological quality and devoted to assessing the clinical efficacy and safety of alpha-interferon preparations for local administration in ARVI and, in particular, in COVID-19. It was showed that these drugs administered intranasally can be effective in post-exposure ARVI prevention (primarily the rhinovirus infection, to a lesser extent - other ARVI, including seasonal influenza). Besides, intranasal administration of IFN-α2 facilitates the course of ARVI cases following such prevention. The prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy of interferon preparations in COVID-19 is possible, but needs further confirmation in clinical trials. At the same time, the local use of IFN-α2 preparations for the prevention and treatment of ARVI is sufficiently safe for patients.
Acute Urticaria in Children: Key Issues in Clinical Practice
Authors: Наконечна А.А. , Банадыга Н.В.
Published: February 2022

Острая крапивница у детей является довольно частым неотложным состоянием, с которым встречаются медицинские работники различных специальностей. Обращает на себя внимание не столько тяжесть состояния, сколько высокая частота обращений за неотложной помощью и госпитализаций. В мире используются Британские, Американские, Канадские, Австралийские рекомендации по ведению острой крапивницы, которые в своей основе имеют идентичные подходы к диагностике и лечению. Однако отсутствие отечественных протоколов впедиатрии сопряжено с рядом неоднозначных подходов к проблеме. В частности, требуется определение четких показаний к госпитализации, объему, составу, последовательности неотложной медикаментозной терапии, выявление группы риска больных - склонных к развитию хронической крапивницы. В настоящее время обращается внимание на роль инфекционных возбудителей при острой крапивнице в детском возрасте, что требует углубленного исследования. Необходимо четко определить роль врача первичного звена в случае крапивницы у ребенка не только в отношении неотложной помощи, но и в последующем наблюдении за пациентом, дифференцированном и обоснованном направлении к аллергологу. Именно сложным практическим вопросам ведения и лечения пациента посвящена эта дискуссионная статья.

Acute urticaria in children is a common emergency condition encountered by healthcare professionals of various specialties. Attention should be paid not only to the condition severity, but also to the high frequency of emergency department attendances and hospitalizations. The British, American, Canadian, Australian recommendations on the management of acute urticaria that basically have identical approaches to diagnosis and treatment are used worldwide. However, the absence of domestic protocols in pediatrics is associated with a number of ambiguous approaches to the problem. It is required to determine clear indications for hospitalization, combination, sequence of emergency medications, and identification of the risk group patients that are prone to development of chronic urticaria. Currently, attention is paid to the role of infectious agents in acute urticaria in childhood, which requires in-depth research. It is necessary to clearly define the primary care role in management and treatment of urticaria in children, not only with regard to emergency care, but also in the subsequent patient’s observation and justified referral to allergist. This discussion article is devoted to the complex practical issues of patient management and treatment.
ICTERÍCIA: DA MANIFESTAÇÃO AO MANEJO CLÍNICO-TERAPÊUTICO
Authors: Gaia de Sousa Felipe , Baracat de Araújo Roberto
Published: February 2022

A icterícia é considerada como a pigmentação amarelada de regiões corpóreas como esclera, pele e mucosas. É uma manifestação presente em variadas doenças e pode ser classificada em icterícia pré-hepática, hepática ou pós-hepática. A categorização dos tipos de icterícia e suas identificações são fundamentais para que haja um maior conhecimento acerca do seu local de ocorrência, da sua gravidade e progressão. A condição pode ser observada em cães e gatos, e cada tipo pode estar associado a doenças distintas como processos hemolíticos, doenças hepatocelulares, obstruções de fluxo biliar, dentre outros. O diagnóstico da manifestação pode ser determinado por meio dos dados coletados através da anamnese, exame clínico e/ou complementar, este último mediante necessidade. O tratamento varia e depende da causa base que esteja associada como terapias medicamentosas a intervenções cirúrgicas.