bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of COVID-19 Pandemic in Bangladesh: Dual Application of Susceptible-Infective-Recovered (SIR) and Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Haq Iqramul , Hossain Md. Ismail , Saleheen Ahmed Abdus Saleh , Nayan Md. Iqbal Hossain , Mila Mafruha Sultana
Published: April 2022

The outbreak of COVID-19 is a global problem today, and, to reduce infectious cases and increase recovered cases, it is relevant to estimate the future movement and pattern of the disease. To identify the hotspot for COVID-19 in Bangladesh, we performed a cluster analysis based on the hierarchical k-means approach. A well-known epidemiological model named “susceptible-infectious-recovered (SIR)” and an additive regression model named “Facebook PROPHET Procedure” were used to predict the future direction of COVID-19 using data from IEDCR. Here we compare the results of the optimized SIR model and a well-known machine learning algorithm (PROPHET algorithm) for the forecasting trend of the COVID-19 pandemic. The result of the cluster analysis demonstrates that Dhaka city is now a hotspot for the COVID-19 pandemic. The basic reproduction ratio value was 2.1, which indicates that the infection rate would be greater than the recovery rate. In terms of the SIR model, the result showed that the virus might be slightly under control only after August 2022. Furthermore, the PROPHET algorithm observed an altered result from SIR, implying that all confirmed, death, and recovered cases in Bangladesh are increasing on a daily basis. As a result, it appears that the PROPHET algorithm is appropriate for pandemic data with a growing trend. Based on the findings, the study recommended that the pandemic is not under control and ensured that if Bangladesh continues the current pattern of infectious rate, the spread of the pandemic in Bangladesh next year will increase.
Coming of Age: Human Genomics and the Cancer–Immune Set Point
Authors: Hammer Christian , Mellman Ira
Published: April 2022

Cancer is largely a disease of the tumor cell genome. As a result, the majority of genetics research in oncology has concentrated on the role of tumor somatic mutations, as well as inherited risk variants, in disease susceptibility and response to targeted treatments. The advent and success of cancer immunotherapies, however, have opened new perspectives for the investigation of the role of inherited genetic variation in codetermining outcome and safety. It is increasingly likely that the entirety of germline genetic variation involved in regulating immune responses accounts for a significant fraction of the observed variability in responses to cancer immunotherapies. Although germline genetic data from patients treated with cancer immunotherapies are still scarce, this line of research benefits from a vast body of knowledge derived from studies into autoimmune and infectious disease phenotypes, thus not requiring a start from a blank slate. Here, we discuss how a thorough investigation of genomic variation relevant for individuals’ variability in (auto)immune responses can contribute to the discovery of novel treatment approaches and drug targets, and yield predictive biomarkers to stratify cancer patient populations in precision and personalized medicine settings.
Neoantigen Presentation and IFNγ Signaling on the Same Tumor-associated Macrophage are Necessary for CD4 T Cell–mediated Antitumor Activity in Mice
Authors: Perez-Diez Ainhoa , Liu Xiangdong , Matzinger Polly
Published: April 2022

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) promote tumor survival, angiogenesis, and metastases. Although they express MHC class II molecules, little is known about their ability to present tumor antigens to tumor-infiltrating CD4 T cells, and the consequences of such presentation. To answer these questions, we used a C57/BL10 mouse tumor model where we subcutaneously implant a bladder carcinoma cell line naturally expressing the H-Y male antigen into female mice, making the H-Y antigen a de facto neoantigen. We found that TAMs indeed present tumor antigens to effector CD4 T cells and that such presentation is necessary for tumor rejection. As a consequence of this interaction, TAMs are reeducated to produce lower amounts of tumor-promoting proteins and greater amounts of inflammatory proteins. The reeducation process of the TAMs is transcriptionally characterized by an IFNγ signature, including genes of known antiviral and antibacterial functions. CD4 production of IFNγ, and not TNFα or CD40L, is required for the reeducation process and tumor rejection. Furthermore, IFNγ signaling on antigen-presenting TAMs and not on bystander TAMs, is necessary for the antitumor effect. These data identify critical mechanisms of tumor rejection by CD4 T cells and underscores the importance of effector CD4 T cell–tissue macrophage interactions not only at the tumors site but potentially in other tissues.

Significance:

In the tumor microenvironment, TAMs are capable of presenting tumor antigens to effector CD4 T cells. Upon antigen recognition, the CD4 cells transform transcriptionally, phenotypically, and functionally the TAMs inducing tumor rejection. This reeducation process requires both cognate interaction and IFNγ signaling on the same macrophage.
Urolithin A Nanoparticle Therapy for Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Kumar M.N.V. Ravi
Published: April 2022

Cisplatin continues to be one of the frontline cytotoxic drugs. However, cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) remains a major unmet medical need without any approved pharmacological interventions. The involvement of reactive oxygen species generation and activation of inflammatory and apoptotic pathways in the pathogenesis of cisplatin-induced AKI prompts the use of natural anti-inflammatory compounds. In this context, resolution of inflammation using natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory such as urolithin A (UA) could prove beneficial. In the end, testing such combinations in models to eliminate the possibility that UA stimulates tumor growth or compromises the potency of cisplatin could prove useful for clinical translation of adjuvant therapies.
Classe média brasileira: novas fachadas, velhos hábitos
Authors: Queiroz Lucas Porto de , Barros Camila
Published: April 2022

Neste artigo procuramos mostrar de que modo dados aparentemente tão despretensiosos quanto os nomes de condomínios residenciais de uma grande cidade brasileira podem ser reveladores da maneira excludente como, segundo o que tem defendido Souza (2019), nossa classe média historicamente se comporta. Para ecoar esse pano de fundo sociológico, utilizamos, num primeiro momento, as categorias metodológicas da semiótica tensiva (ZILBERBERG, 2011) e, numa segunda etapa, convocamos para a análise categorias do design (LUPTON; PHILLIPS, 2014; SILVA; FARIAS, 2005). Nosso corpus é composto por 12 nomes de condomínios de Fortaleza-CE, seis deles localizados num bairro de perfil socioeconômico mais modesto, Passaré, e seis num bairro mais rico da capital cearense, Engenheiro Luciano Cavalcante.
Semiótica do discurso filosófico: a palavra pensada, o ato de escrita e o sentido
Authors: Bittar Eduardo Carlos Bianca
Published: April 2022

Este artigo desenvolve, na perspectiva da semiótica francesa, uma análise do discurso filosófico, identificando no texto filosófico um laboratório de ideias. O artigo confere destaque à perspectiva teórica aberta pela analyse du discours, sem prescindir das contribuições advindas da semiótica do conhecimento, da semiótica dos objetos e da sociossemiótica. O pensamento é visto e discutido, ao longo da análise, enquanto palavra pensada, na medida da relação de intimidade que mantém com a linguagem. Na história da filosofia, não importa a tradição ou a linha de pensamento, a palavra é um ponto em comum dos sistemas filosóficos, pois permite operar a conversão do sentido convencional ao sentido filosófico. O discurso filosófico é também analisado por ser um discurso constituinte (discours constituant), exercido na base de uma enunciação debreada, que opera generalizações através de conceitos, buscando o efeito de verdade. O ato de pensamento não se separa do ato de escrita, e ambos se inscrevem dentro de uma comunidade discursiva, dos jogos polêmicos e de estereótipos acerca da vida intelectual.
Georg Friedrich Meier e os paraísos artificiais de Immanuel Kant
Authors: Suzuki Márcio
Published: April 2022

Este texto procura mostrar como G. F. Meier e Immanuel Kant veem a diversão e a distração como parte essencial do método filosófico.
El tiempo subjetivo como producto de la doctrina kantiana de la auto-afección
Authors: Orono Matías
Published: April 2022

El objetivo de este trabajo es demostrar que la doctrina kantiana de la auto-afección da lugar a la consciencia de un tiempo meramente subjetivo. En primer lugar, analizaremos los §§ 8 y 24 de la Crítica de la Razón Pura con el fin de comprender la distinción entre un nivel a priori y otro empírico de auto-afección. En segundo lugar, compararemos la doctrina de la auto-afección y el esquematismo trascendental, con el fin de señalar que la temporalidad a priori de la auto-afección no se identifica con el tiempo objetivo del esquematismo.
Resenha de A Imaginação Crítica, Hume no século das Luzes, de Pedro Paulo Pimenta
Authors: Limongi Maria Isabel
Published: April 2022

Resenha de A Imaginação Crítica, Hume no século das Luzes, de Pedro Paulo Pimenta (Rio de Janeiro: Azougue/ Pensamento Brasileiro, 2013)
Ser uma pessoa, ser alguém. Os limites do institucionalismo hegeliano
Authors: Colliot-Thélène Catherine
Published: April 2022

É geralmente aceito que a filosofia política de Hegel é institucionalista no sentido de que ela não se contenta em justificar a necessidade do organismo político, mas que ela expõe suas articulações complexas com esmero de precisão. Enquanto para alguns, como para Axel Honneth, por exemplo, o institucionalismo de Hegel seria excessivo, tenho, inversamente, a tendência de considerar que o interesse de Hegel pelo concreto das instituições é aquilo que constitui a força de sua filosofia política. Parece-me que encontramos nos Princípios da Filosofia do Direito os traços de uma reflexão (discreta) sobre os limites do institucionalizável. São esses traços que eu pretendo identificar, em dois níveis, nesta exposição: aquele do direito abstrato, que será objeto da primeira parte, e aquele da eticidade, ao qual consagrarei a segunda parte da exposição.
Cecília Meireles e a revista Presença: a tradição como herança
Authors: Mendes Karla Renata
Published: April 2022

Cecília Meireles manteve uma profícua conexão com Portugal, atuando, por exemplo, em revistas portuguesas entre 1930 e 1950. Entre tais publicações, encontra-se Presença, surgida em Coimbra, em 1927. Embora inserida no contexto modernista, a revista defendia um aproveitamento da tradição e um modernismo continuador. Assim, a autora acabou encontrando ali um espaço favorável à recepção e divulgação de sua poesia, alinhada aos ideais defendidos pela revista. Dez de seus poemas foram publicados em dois números da revista. O presente artigo procura, portanto, evidenciar a participação de Cecília na Presença, perfazendo um panorama de suas contribuições e de seu diálogo com a publicação portuguesa.
Cytotaxonomy and palynology study of some weed species from the state of Punjab, India
Authors: Rai Singh  , M.C. Sidhu
Published: April 2022

The present study was conducted in Malwa region of Punjab, India in 2019–2020. A total of 10 weed species belonging to seven genera and four families were recorded from different crops. Meiotic analysis has revealed the chromosome numbers in different weed species as Datura innoxia (n= 12), Erigeron bonariensis (n= 13), Nicotiana plumbaginifolia (n= 10), Physalis angulata (n= 24), Sesbania bispinosa (n= 6), Sida cordifolia (n= 8), Solanum americanum (n= 12), Solanum nigrum (n= 36), Solanum villosum (n= 24), and Solanum virginianum (n= 12). Chromosome numbers of Solanum americanum and S. villosum have been worked out for the first time from the state of Punjab, India. Morphological features along with the chromosome numbers have authenticated the identity of weed species. Similarly, pollen fertility analysis has suggested the potential of seed production by the weed species and their subsequent invasiveness.
An abandoned nest of Vespa affinis (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)
Authors: Sultana Shanjida , Akter Sharmin
Published: April 2022

During a survey of hymenopteran species at Barishal Sadar Thana of Barishal metropolitan area in Bangladesh, a nest of Vespa affinis was discovered; it was later abandoned by the wasps prior to the arrival of winter. As no records of studies have been found on wasp nests in Bangladesh, some features of the collected abandoned nest are discussed here.
A report on the butterfly (Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera) diversity of the Upper Ganga River Ramsar site in Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: De Kritish , Kumar Keshav , Singh Amar Paul , Uniyal Virendra Prasad , Hussain Syed Ainul
Published: April 2022

This study provides a primary inventory of the butterfly diversity of the Upper Ganga River Ramsar site in Uttar Pradesh, India. The study was carried out in two phases, first in March 2019 and then in November 2019. A total of 44 species of butterflies belonging to 34 genera and five families were seen in the area. The species observed in the study site belonged to the families Hesperiidae (4 genera, 4 species), Lycaenidae (4 genera, 4 species), Nymphalidae (18 genera, 24 species), Papilionidae (2 genera, 4 species), and Pieridae (6 genera, 8 species). Three of these species are legally protected under various schedules of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act (1972).
Stent Optimization Using Optical Coherence Tomography and Its Prognostic Implications After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Rai Himanshu , Harzer Fiona , Otsuka Tatsuhiko , Abdelwahed Youssef S. , Antuña Paula , Blachutzik Florian , Koppara Tobias , Räber Lorenz , Leistner David M. , Alfonso Fernando , Nef Holger , Seguchi Masaru , Aytekin Alp , Xhepa Erion , Kufner Sebastian , Cassese Salvatore , Laugwitz Karl‐Ludwig , Byrne Robert A. , Kastrati Adnan , Joner Michael
Published: April 2022

Background

Stent underexpansion has been known to be associated with worse outcomes. We sought to define optical coherence tomography assessed optimal stent expansion index (SEI), which associates with lower incidence of follow‐up major adverse cardiac events (MACEs).

Methods and Results

A total of 315 patients (involving 370 lesions) who underwent optical coherence tomography–aided coronary stenting were retrospectively included. SEI was calculated separately for equal halves of each stented segment using minimum stent area/mean reference lumen area ([proximal reference area+distal reference area]/2). The smaller of the 2 was considered to be the SEI of that case. Follow‐up MACE was defined as a composite of all‐cause death, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, and target lesion revascularization. Average minimum stent area was 6.02 (interquartile range, 4.65–7.92) mm
2
, while SEI was 0.79 (interquartile range, 0.71–0.86). Forty‐seven (12.7%) incidences of MACE were recorded for 370 included lesions during a median follow‐up duration of 557 (interquartile range, 323–1103) days. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis identified 0.85 as the best SEI cutoff (<0.85) to predict follow‐up MACE (area under the curve, 0.60; sensitivity, 0.85; specificity, 0.34). MACE was observed in 40 of 260 (15.4%) lesions with SEI <0.85 and in 7 of 110 (6.4%) lesions with SEI ≥0.85 (
P
=0.02). Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression identified SEI <0.85 (odds ratio, 3.55; 95% CI, 1.40–9.05;
P
<0.01) and coronary calcification (odds ratio, 2.47; 95% CI, 1.00–6.10;
P
=0.05) as independent predictors of follow‐up MACE.

Conclusions

The present study identified SEI <0.85, associated with increased incidence of MACE, as the optimal cutoff in daily practice. Along with suboptimal SEI (<0.85), coronary calcification was also found to be a significant predictor of follow‐up MACE.
Sex‐Related Differences in Genetic Cardiomyopathies
Authors: Argirò Alessia , Ho Carolyn , Day Sharlene M. , van der Velden Jolanda , Cerbai Elisabetta , Saberi Sara , Tardiff Jil C. , Lakdawala Neal K. , Olivotto Iacopo
Published: April 2022

Cardiomyopathies are a heterogeneous collection of diseases that have in common primary functional and structural abnormalities of the heart muscle, often genetically determined. The most effective categorization of cardiomyopathies is based on the presenting phenotype, with hypertrophic, dilated, arrhythmogenic, and restrictive cardiomyopathy as the prototypes. Sex modulates the prevalence, morpho‐functional manifestations and clinical course of cardiomyopathies. Aspects as diverse as ion channel expression and left ventricular remodeling differ in male and female patients with myocardial disease, although the reasons for this are poorly understood. Moreover, clinical differences may also result from complex societal/environmental discrepancies between sexes that may disadvantage women. This review provides a state‐of‐the‐art appraisal of the influence of sex on cardiomyopathies, highlighting the many gaps in knowledge and open research questions.
A new species and a new record of the genus Otostigmus Porat, 1876 (Chilopoda: Scolopendromorpha: Scolopendridae) in Vietnam
Authors: VU HA T. , EGUCHI KATSUYUKI , LE SON X. , NGUYEN THU-ANH T. , NGUYEN ANH D.
Published: April 2022

Otostigmus consonensis sp. nov. was described from Vietnam, and O. sulcipes Verhoeff, 1937 was recorded for the first time in this country. The new species can be recognized by having 18 antennomeres including 2.3–2.5 glabrous basal ones, three coxosternal teeth, tergites 5–20 with complete paramedia sutures, sternites with incomplete paramedian sutures, and the ultimate leg with 11–15 prefemoral spines. The fragment of the COI gene was extracted for each species; thus, a new species and a record of O. sulcipes were supported by the COI genetic distances and the corresponding phylogenetic analysis.
Understanding Uncertainties in Tropical Cyclone Rainfall Hazard Modeling Using Synthetic Storms
Authors: Xi Dazhi , Lin Ning
Published: April 2022

Tropical cyclone (TC) rainfall hazard assessment is subject to the bias in TC climatology estimation from climate simulations or synthetic downscaling. In this study, we investigate the uncertainty in TC rainfall hazard assessment induced by this bias using both rain gauge and radar observations and synthetic-storm-model-coupled TC rainfall simulations. We identify the storm’s maximum intensity, impact duration, and minimal distance to the site to be the three most important storm parameters for TC rainfall hazard, and the relationship between the important storm parameters and TC rainfall can be well captured by a physics-based TC rainfall model. The uncertainty in the synthetic rainfall hazard induced by the bias in TC climatology can be largely explained by the bias in the important storm parameters simulated by the synthetic storm model. Correcting the distribution of the most biased parameter may significantly improve rainfall hazard estimation. Bias correction based on the joint distribution of the important parameters may render more accurate rainfall hazard estimations; however, the general technical difficulties in resampling from high-dimensional joint probability distributions prevent more accurate estimations in some cases. The results of the study also support future investigation of the impact of climate change on TC rainfall hazards through the lens of future changes in the identified important storm parameters.
Additional Evaluation of the Spatiotemporal Evolution of Rotation during Tornadogenesis Using Rapid-Scan Mobile Radar Observations
Authors: Houser Jana Lesak , Bluestein Howard B. , Thiem Kyle , Snyder Jeffrey , Reif Dylan , Wienhoff Zachary
Published: April 2022

This study builds upon recent rapid-scan radar observations of mesocyclonic tornadogenesis in supercells by investigating the formation of seven tornadoes (four from a single cyclic supercell), most of which include samples at heights < 100 m above radar level. The spatiotemporal evolution of the tornadic vortex signatures (TVSs), maximum velocity differentials across the vortex couplet, and pseudovorticity are analyzed. In general, the tornadoes formed following a non-descending pattern of evolution, although one case was descending over time scales O(<60) s and the evolution of another case was dependent upon the criteria used to define a tornado, and may have been associated with a rapidly occurring top-down process. Thus, it was determined that the vertical sense of evolution of a tornado can be sensitive to the criteria employed to define a TVS. Furthermore, multiple instances were found in which TVSs terminated at heights below 1.5 km, although vertical sampling above this height was often limited.

Significance Statement

It is generally well understood that tornadoes form over short time scales [i.e., O(∼60) s]. Despite this fact, detailed scientific measurements of tornado evolution during and just prior to genesis remains limited, particularly very near the ground and on time and space scales sufficient to observe tornado processes. Multiple recent studies have supported a non-descending evolution of rotation in supercell tornadoes, but the small number of analyzed cases is still insufficient for generalization. This study investigates seven new cases of tornadogenesis using high spatiotemporal resolution radar data that include near-ground level observations to examine the evolution of rotation with time and height. For the time scales observable by the radar platform [i.e., O(∼30) s], genesis occurred predominately following a non-descending manner in five out of the seven tornadoes studied, while the vertical evolution of two tornadoes were sensitive to the criterion used to define a “tornadic” vortex signature.
Video- and Robotic-Assisted Thoracoscopic Truncal Vagotomy
Authors: Yu Lumeng J. , Maxfield Mark W. , Chow Oliver S. , Whyte Richard I. , Wilson Jennifer L. , Kent Michael S. , Gangadharan Sidhu P.
Published: April 2022

A subset of patients with marginal ulcers after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RNYGB) is refractory to medical management. Here we report a retrospective review of a single institution cohort (N = 10) of video- or robotic-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS or RATS) truncal vagotomies performed between 2013 and 2018. All patients had recurrent marginal ulcers following RNYGB complicated by bleeding or perforation, refractory to medical management for a median of 3.5 months prior to undergoing truncal vagotomy. With a median of 23 months’ follow-up, only three patients had continued symptoms (70% symptom resolution) post-operatively. Only one patient who had repeat endoscopy after the procedure had documented endoscopic evidence of recurrent marginal ulcer (83% endoscopic resolution). VATS or RATS truncal vagotomy is a safe and effective method to treat complicated marginal ulceration after RNYGB. After an average duration of unsuccessful medical treatment lasting three months, vagotomy led to successful resolution in 70-83% of patients.
Stigma and Exclusion: Challenges of Re-Integration of Human Trafficked Survivors in Assam
Authors: Niumai Ajailiu , Rajesh M. N.
Published: April 2022

This article attempts to examine the lived experiences of trafficked survivors and understand the utilisation of cultural resources to generate positive attitudes towards trafficked survivors while they present themselves as responsible citizens of society in Assam. It focuses on the enabling narrative of de-stigmatisation, challenges to cope up in everyday life and re-integration of the trafficked victims. This article attempts to examine human trafficking in Assam from the lens of Erving Goffman’s theory of stigma. There is an anguish in the process of rehabilitation as the trafficked survivors require emotional and socio-economic stability or else as they have a propensity to be re-trafficked. These survivors have been bruised internally and they take time to overcome their stigma, shame and gain self-esteem. This article will conclude by trying to propose meaningful strategies for the re-integration of victims with their families.
Design, preparation and characterization of three-dimensional auxetic warp and weft backed weave fabrics based on origami tessellation structures
Authors: Xu Qiaoli , Gu Longxin , Liu Zhuoran , Zhang Lei , Yuan Jie , Lu Chunhong , Lei Kaiqiang , Du Zhaoqun
Published: April 2022

Materials with a negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) are also called auxetic materials, which as a branch of mechanical metamaterials have drawn a great deal of attention in many areas. Origami tessellation structures (OTSs) exhibit an in-plane NPR; meanwhile, they may also show an out-of-plane NPR, which may be called three-dimensional (3D) auxetic structures. In the crease pattern of OTSs, there are folding lines in perpendicular directions. Contractions in the warp direction need warp backed weave structures. Herein, warp and weft backed weaves are used together and three OTS Jacquard fabrics are designed. From the physical map, we can see that the elastic warp yarns and elastic weft yarns can form floats in the warp and weft directions, and the flat fabrics can be folded in to 3D OTSs according to the crease patterns designed. The in-plane and out-of-plane Poisson’s ratios of OTSs have been predicted and, subsequently, compared with the experimental results. All OTS fabrics can show an in-plane NPR, two fabrics show out-of-plane NPRs and one shows an out-of-plane positive Poisson’s ratio. A parametric analysis about the interior angle has revealed the interplay between the geometrical parameters of OTSs and the Poisson’s ratio. In various design fields, elastic yarns combined with warp and weft backed weave textile technology can pave the way for realizing new crease pattern fabrics focused on 3D auxetic materials. Theoretical results can provide methodological guidance and technical support for the design and manufacture of OTS fabrics with optimum functional performance or desired aesthetics.
Early Detection of Prostate Cancer: Self-Reported Knowledge and Attitude of Physicians in Jordan
Authors: Alqudah Mohammad A. Y. , Al-Samman Raneem , Matalgah Obada , Abu Farhah Rana
Published: April 2022

Prostate cancer (PC) screening aims to detect PC in early stages, amenable to curative treatment and reduction in disease morbidity and mortality. However, PC screening may be associated with overdiagnosis and complications of unnecessary treatment for indolent disease. Therefore, careful patient selection for PC screening is critical to avoid overestimation and missed diagnosis. The aim of this study was to assess physicians’ knowledge and attitude towards early detection of PC in Jordan and whether their knowledge is an important predictor of their attitude. An electronic, self-reported questionnaire was used to collect data on demographics, knowledge, and attitude of physicians regarding early detection of PC. The participants’ responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. Around 296 physicians agreed to participate in this study. Most respondents were males (75.7%), residents (34%), practiced medicine more than 15 years (29%) and graduated (81.4%) from local universities. Surprisingly, only 28.4% recognized PC as a non-self-detected disease and less than one-half (48.6%) were aware that PC screening tests are not enough to exclude a diagnosis of PC. The median knowledge Percent of Maximum Possible (POMP) score was 59%. Around two-thirds of participants showed a positive attitude towards early detection of PC (median attitude POMP score was 66%). Higher attitude scores were significantly associated with younger age, those working in private hospitals, and those having higher knowledge POMP score ( P < .05). This study highlighted that most physicians demonstrated a positive attitude towards PC screening but with moderate level of knowledge that is considered an important predictor of their attitude towards PC early detection. Thus, improving knowledge and awareness of physicians should be considered as a strategy to improve their attitude towards prostate screening practices and informing men of the importance of regular screening.
Indonesian students’ religiousness, comfort, and anger toward God during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Aditya Yonathan , Martoyo Ihan , Adi Nurcahyo Firmanto , Ariela Jessica , Amir Yulmaida , Pramono Rudy
Published: April 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many religious college students have found comfort in God, while others may have developed anger toward God; however, no studies have systematically compared the multidimensional effects of religiousness on how Muslim and Christian students react to stressors such as COVID-19. This study addressed this gap in the literature by investigating which of the Four Basic Dimensions of Religiousness Scale (4-BDRS: believing, bonding, behaving, and belonging) were significant predictors for both taking comfort in and feeling anger toward God among Muslim ( n = 550) and Christian ( n = 334) college students in Indonesia, while also controlling for the influence of neuroticism, a known predictor for attitudes toward God. Muslims reported that all dimensions of the 4-BDRS were significant predictors of comfort, with bonding as a negative predictor (β = –.09, p = .04), while Christians reported that belonging (β = .07, p = .34) was the only insignificant predictor. Muslims reported that believing (β = –.22, p ⩽ .001) and behaving (β = –.19, p = .002) were negative predictors of anger, while Christians reported negative effects only for bonding (β = –.17, p = .04); however, bonding did not significantly predict anger when analyzed separately for men and women. Therefore, to decrease their anger toward and increase the comfort they find in God, Muslims must focus on their beliefs and exercise the commandments of Islam. Christians, though, must focus on increasing cognitive, affective, and behavioral aspects of religiousness to find comfort, while having better personal relationships with God could be key in reducing anger toward God.
Improved Prognosis in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Experience of 62 Cases over 2-Year Period
Authors: Marshall Alistair , Sumner Edward
Published: April 2022

During 1979 and 1980, 62 babies with congenital diaphragmatic hernia were admitted to the Hospitals for Sick Children. All 62 babies underwent surgical closure of the anatomical defect. There were 44 survivors and 18 deaths, a survival rate of 71%. Both the number treated and the overall survival rate were greater than any series reported for a similar period. The number of admissions may reflect earlier diagnosis and improved resuscitation, with safer and more rapid transfer to our units. The improved survival must be mainly attributed to our experience over the past few years which has consolidated understanding and methods of management and led to a close cooperation between surgeon and anaesthetist both in immediate management and in postoperative care.
Psychiatric Consultations in Clinical Haematology
Authors: Clarke M G , Hutchinson R M , Wood J K
Published: April 2022

A psychiatrist's role in the management of patients with malignant blood disorders being treated by clinical haematologists is described. Twenty-seven patients were seen, the majority (21) for an initial assessment only, and many (21) within three months of diagnosis or their death. Seventeen were referred for assessment of abnormal mood or behaviour and the others for a variety of problems which affected their management. A small group (4) had organic psychosyndromes; the majority (15) were suffering from understandable adjustment reactions, with another 5 having morbid neurotic or depressive reactions. Family and hospital factors were important and a description of these is included in an account of the consultation process.
‘Lost in the marketplace of ideas: Towards a new constitution for free speech after Trump and Twitter?’
Authors: Macedo Stephen
Published: April 2022

Democracy is in crisis and one core feature is a communications crisis: a failure of institutions to reliably generate and curate the circulation of information and communications. Capitalism, the internet and Covid have all been unkind to journalism: newspapers and their reporters have been decimated. Newer media – such as Facebook, Twitter and Google – have amassed enormous power in a remarkably short time. They are the new gatekeepers of free expression, as witnessed by the Twitter ban of Donald Trump. Social media platforms are also the bullhorns of disinformation: they seem to exacerbate polarization, sow distrust, speed the spread of misinformation and encourage conspiracist thinking. Can the media companies be trusted to self-regulate? What alternatives do we have? I argue in the end that the Facebook Oversight Board offers a hopeful model.
A few Weeks in Dirt City: Sport-Related Gentrification, Mobilizing Resistance, and the Art of Failure in Edmonton, Alberta
Authors: Scherer Jay , Kafara Rylan , Davidson Judy
Published: April 2022

There is no shortage of sociological research that explores the successes and failures of various sport-related social movements. However, a more capacious approach to understanding the significance of sport-related social movements, their imaginative actions and collective labor, and their impacts on social change, is one that shifts its focus away from binary categories of “success” and “failure”. In this paper, we explore the formation of the short-lived Edmonton Community Benefits Coalition, which emerged in 2016 to oppose the lack of a legally binding Community Benefits Agreement associated with a new publicly financed National Hockey League arena in Edmonton’s gentrifying city center, an area of spatially concentrated racialized poverty. Drawing from our ethnographic research, we examine how coalition members engaged in the collective labor of building solidarity, including the collaborative development of political strategies, while recognizing that the odds of successfully penetrating neoliberal capital and municipal governance were virtually impossible. Finally, given that the coalition ultimately “failed” to secure more significant institutional impacts, we offer an analysis of how this failure engendered several effects, including the cultivation of new relationships and political strategies in the ongoing struggle against gentrification and its related displacements in Edmonton, Alberta.
Navigating multiple pandemics: A critical analysis of the impact of COVID-19 policy responses on gender-based violence services
Authors: Mantler Tara , Wathen C. Nadine , Burd Caitlin , MacGregor Jennifer C. D. , McLean Isobel , Veenendaal Jill
Published: April 2022

COVID-19 illustrated what governments can do to mobilise against a global threat. Despite the strong governmental response to COVID-19 in Canada, another ‘pandemic’, gender-based violence (GBV), has been causing grave harm with generally insufficient policy responses. Using interpretive description methodology, 26 interviews were conducted with shelter staff and 5 focus groups with 24 executive directors (EDs) from GBV service organizations in Ontario, Canada. Five main themes were identified and explored, namely that: (1) there are in fact four pandemics at play; (2) the interplay of pandemics amplified existing systemic weaknesses; (3) the key role of informal partnerships and community support, (4) temporary changes in patterns of funding allocation; and (5) exhaustion as a consequence of addressing multiple and concurrent pandemics. Implications and recommendations for researchers, policy makers, and the GBV sector are discussed.
Contractual controls and pragmatic professionalism: A qualitative study on contracting social services in China
Authors: Lei Jie , Cai Tian , Chan Chak Kwan
Published: April 2022

This study used the contracting projects of a district branch of the Women's Federation in Guangzhou as case examples to demonstrate both the Chinese state's contractual controls over social work organisations (SWOs) and the pragmatic response strategies of SWOs and professionals. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seventeen participants, including local officials of the Women's Federation and social workers from contracted SWOs. It was found that with the ultimate goal of consolidating the legitimacy of the Communist Party of China, the Women's Federation's dual role in politics and service provision had led to normative, managerial, technical and relational controls over SWOs. SWOs and professionals were generally submissive to these controls, but they employed diverse coping strategies, including compliance, bargaining, transformation and investment in personal relationships. The interactions within the contractual relationship created a pragmatic professionalism that embraced dominant political ideologies, employed de-politicising techniques, and personally depended on individual officials.
Effects of dual-task training on gait and balance in stroke patients: A meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Xueyi , Xu Feng , Shi Huijuan , Liu Ruijiao , Wan Xianglin
Published: April 2022

Objective

To assess the effects of dual-task training on gait and balance in stroke patients. Data sources: A systematic review of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane Library from their inception through 20 August 2021.

Review methods

The bibliography was screened to identify randomized controlled trials that applied dual-task training to rehabilitation function training in stroke patients. Two reviewers independently screened references, selected relevant studies, extracted data and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane tool of bias. The primary outcome was the gait and balance parameters.

Results

A total of 1992 studies were identified and 15 randomized controlled trials were finally included (512 individuals) were analyzed. A meta-analysis was performed and a beneficial effect on rehabilitation training was found. Compared to patients who received conventional rehabilitation therapy, those who received dual-task training showed greater improvement in step length (MD = 3.46, 95% CI [1.01, 5.92], P = 0.006), cadence (MD = 4.92, 95% CI [3.10, 6.74], P < 0.001) and berg balance scale score (MD = 3.10, 95% CI [0.11, 6.09], P = 0.040). There were no differences in the improvements in gait speed (MD = 2.89, 95% CI [ − 2.02, 7.80], P = 0.250) and timed up and go test (MD = −2.62, 95% CI [ − 7.94, 2.71], P = 0.340) between dual-task and control groups.

Conclusion

Dual-task training is an effective training for rehabilitation of stroke patients in step length and cadence, however, the superiority of dual-task training for improving balance function needs further discussion.
How COVID-19 changed clinical research strategies: a global survey
Authors: Bauer Annina , Eskat Anja , Ntekim Atara , Wong Creany , Eberle Deborah , Hedayati Elham , Tay Fabian , Yau Henry , Stockley Louise , de Medina Redondo María , Şen Selçuk , Egert-Schwender Silvia , Üresin Yağız , Grossmann Regina
Published: April 2022

Objective

Clinical research has faced new challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to excessive operational demands affecting all stakeholders. We evaluated the impact of COVID-19 on clinical research strategies and compared different adaptations by regulatory bodies and academic research institutions in a global context, exploring what can be learned for possible future pandemics.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional online survey and identified and assessed different COVID-19-specific adaptation strategies used by academic research institutions and regulatory bodies.

Results

All 19 participating academic research institutions developed and followed similar strategies, including preventive measures, manpower recruitment, and prioritisation of COVID-19 projects. In contrast, measures for centralised management or coordination of COVID-19 projects, project preselection, and funding were handled differently amongst institutions. Regulatory bodies responded similarly to the pandemic by implementing fast-track authorisation procedures for COVID-19 projects and developing guidance documents. Quality and consistency of the information and advice provided was rated differently amongst institutions.

Conclusion

Both academic research institutions and regulatory bodies worldwide were able to cope with challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic by developing similar strategies. We identified some unique approaches to ensure fast and efficient responses to a pandemic. Ethical concerns should be addressed in any new decision-making process.
What elicits music-evoked nostalgia? An exploratory study among college students
Authors: Sterenberg Mahon Alycia J , Roth Edward A
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study was to further explore how song (a) familiarity, (b) enjoyment, (c) autobiographical salience, and (d) emotional arousal as well as a person’s (e) current mood state and (f) nostalgia proneness predicted music-evoked nostalgia. This study also measured the strength of the relationship between self-reports of arousal and electrodermal activity (EDA). Thirty people were recruited from a sample of university students using a multilevel model with repeated measures design. Procedures included listening to personalized playlists to elicit feelings of nostalgia while EDA collected changes in emotional arousal. Participants then answered questions about song familiarity, enjoyment, autobiographical salience, and arousal. Results indicated autobiographical salience was the best predictor of music-evoked nostalgia while holding all other variables constant. Mean skin conductance level ([Formula: see text]) did not correlate with self-reports of arousal. Therefore, this study supports the hypothesis that autobiographical salience predicted music-evoked nostalgia; however, this study did not support the hypothesis of a relationship between self-reports of arousal and EDA. Future research should continue to explore the influence of arousal on nostalgia.
Randomised controlled trials of occupational therapy interventions for adults with a mental health condition or dementia: A systematic review of study methods and outcome measurement
Authors: Birken Mary , Wenborn Jennifer , Connell Catriona
Published: April 2022

Introduction

High-quality randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of interventions are essential for determining whether an intervention is effective. However, many RCTs that examine the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for adults with mental health conditions or dementia have methodological limitations that reduce confidence in their results. We aimed to systematically review the quality of methods and outcome measures used in RCTs of occupational therapy interventions for adults with a mental health condition or dementia. This will inform future research in this area and enable practitioners to appraise the evidence when selecting interventions.

Method

We searched peer-reviewed English language publications from 2000 to 2021 in MEDLINE, PsycINFO, ASSIA, CINAHL and e-thos, and hand-searched 12 journals. We included papers that met pre-specified inclusion criteria, appraised quality using a validated tool and extracted data. We conducted a narrative synthesis.

Results

Of thirty-three included papers, 26 reported full or pilot RCTs, two reported secondary analysis or secondary outcomes of included RCTs, three reported process evaluations and two reported economic evaluations. Methodological limitations were found in many studies and outcome measures varied in their psychometric quality.

Conclusion

High-quality RCTs of occupational therapy interventions are needed for adults with mental health conditions and dementia. Researchers should follow international guidelines for rigorously developing and evaluating interventions and reporting studies. Practitioners should critically apply RCT evidence when selecting occupational therapy interventions.
Transorbital sonography: A non-invasive bedside screening tool for detection of pseudotumor cerebri syndrome
Authors: Korsbæk Johanne Juhl , Hagen Snorre Malm , Schytz Henrik W , Vukovic-Cvetkovic Vlasta , Wibroe Elisabeth Arnberg , Hamann Steffen , Jensen Rigmor H
Published: April 2022

Background

Our objective was to assess optic nerve sheath diameter (a marker of elevated intracranial pressure) and optic disc elevation (a marker of papilledema) in pseudotumor cerebri syndrome using transorbital sonography.

Methods

The study was a prospective case-control study. We included patients with new-onset pseudotumor cerebri syndrome and matched healthy controls. All had fundoscopy, lumbar puncture with opening pressure and transorbital sonography. Sonography was assessed by a blinded observer.

Results

We evaluated 45 patients and included 23 cases. We recruited 35 controls. Optic nerve sheath diameter was larger in pseudotumor cerebri syndrome compared to controls (6.3 ± 0.9 mm versus 5.0 ± 0.5 mm, p < 0.001) and so was optic disc elevation (0.9 ± 0.4 mm versus 0.4 ± 0.1 mm, p < 0.001). The optimal cut-off point for optic nerve sheath diameter was 6 mm with a sensitivity of 74% for prediction of pseudotumor cerebri syndrome and 68% for prediction of elevated opening pressure. Specificity was 94%. The optimal cut-off point for optic disc elevation was 0.6 mm. Sensitivity was 100% and specificity 83% for prediction of pseudotumor cerebri syndrome.

Conclusion

Optic disc elevation and optic nerve sheath diameter are increased in new-onset pseudotumor cerebri syndrome. Optic disc elevation achieved high specificity and excellent sensitivity for diagnosis of pseudotumor cerebri syndrome. Transorbital sonography (TOS) is a potential, non-invasive screening tool for pseudotumor cerebri syndrome in headache clinics.
Palliative Care Consultation in the Intensive Care Unit Reduces Hospital Costs: A Cost-Analysis
Authors: Chung Tong Han , Nguyen Linh K. , Lal Lincy S. , Swint J. Michael , Le Yen-Chi L. , Hanley Kathleen R. , Siller Efrain , Chanaud Cheryl M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Palliative care aims to improve or maintain quality of life for patients with life-limiting or life-threatening diseases. Limited research shows that palliative care is associated with reduced intensive care unit length of stay and use of high-cost resources.

Methods

This was an observational, non-experimental comparison group study on all patients 18 years or older admitted to any intensive care unit (ICU) at Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center for 7 to 30 days from August 2013 to December 2015. Length of stay (LOS) and hospital costs were compared between the treatment group of patients with palliative care in the ICU and the control group of patients with usual care in the ICU. To adjust for confounding of the palliative care consultation on LOS and hospital cost, an inverse probability of treatment weighted method was conducted. Generalized linear models using gamma distribution and log link were estimated. All costs were converted to 2015 US dollars.

Results

Mean LOS was 13 days and mean total hospital costs were USD 58,378. In adjusted and weighted analysis, LOS for the treatment group was 8% longer compared to the control group. The mean total hospital cost was estimated to decrease by 21% for the treatment group versus the control group. We found a reduction of USD 33,783 in hospital costs per patient who died in the hospital and reduction of USD 9113 per patient discharged alive.

Conclusion

Palliative care consultation was associated with a reduction in the total cost of hospital care for patients with life-limiting or life-threatening diseases.