bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delayed-Onset Losartan-Induced Pancreatitis Secondary to an Overdose: A Case Report
Authors: Khatri Shivam , Chacko Steven , Chamay Salomon , Kashfi Simon , Sharma Shorabh
Published: April 2023

Acute pancreatitis is defined as inflammation of the pancreas and is most commonly caused by gallstones and alcohol use. Less commonly, acute pancreatitis can be drug induced from medications that are divided into 5 subgroups (classes Ia-V). The subgroups are determined based on the cases reported, reaction with rechallenge and a consistent period of latency. We describe a case of a 34-year-old female who overdosed on losartan pills in a suicide attempt but developed symptoms of drug-induced acute pancreatitis nearly a week later without gallstones, alcohol involvement, or other drug toxicity.
Primary and Secondary Risk Factors Associated With Concussion Symptom Clusters in Collegiate Athletes: Results From the NCAA-DoD Grand Alliance CARE Consortium
Authors: Nolan Kate E. , Caccese Jaclyn B. , Kontos Anthony P. , Buckley Thomas A. , Garcia Gian-Gabriel P. , Port Nicholas , Broglio Steven P. , McAllister Thomas W. , McCrea Michael , Pasquina Paul F. , Hayes Jasmeet P. ,   on behalf of the CARE Consortium Investigators
Published: April 2023

Background:

There is a broad and diverse range of symptoms after a concussion, from irritability to nausea. This heterogeneity of symptoms is a challenge for clinicians managing the different presentations among injuries. Prior research has investigated the structure of postconcussive symptoms to determine if they can be grouped into clusters of related symptoms.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to identify symptom clusters during the acute phase after a sports-related concussion using exploratory factor analysis and to understand the relationship between risk factors for postconcussion symptoms (ie, demographics, injury characteristics, mental health, and sleep qualities) and different symptom clusters. We hypothesized that certain factors would be predictive of specific symptom clusters.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Collegiate athletes (N = 1104) from the Concussion, Assessment, Research, and Education (CARE) Consortium completed the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool–Third Edition symptom assessment tool 24 to 48 hours after concussion. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the symptom evaluation to determine symptom clusters 24 to 48 hours after concussion. Regression analysis was used to examine the effects of pre- and postinjury characteristics.

Results:

Exploratory factor analysis revealed a 4-cluster structure for acute postconcussive symptoms that explained 62% of the variance in symptom reporting: vestibular-cognitive, migrainous, cognitive fatigue, and affective. Delayed reporting, less sleep before assessment, female sex, and being hurt outside of competition (during practice/training) was correlated with increased symptoms for 4 symptom clusters. Depression predicted higher vestibular-cognitive and affective symptoms. Amnesia was correlated with higher vestibular-cognitive and migrainous symptoms, whereas migraine history was associated with more migrainous and affective symptoms.

Conclusion:

Symptoms can be grouped into 1 of 4 distinct clusters. Certain variables were associated with increased symptoms across multiple clusters and may be indicative of greater injury severity. Other factors (ie, migraine history, depression, amnesia) were associated with a more specific symptom presentation and may be mechanistically related to concussion outcomes and biological markers.
Subversion of Casteism in Sajitha Madathil’s Kali Natakam: A Dalit Feminist Study
Authors: James Sinu
Published: April 2023

The feminist play Kali Natakam by Sajitha Madathil explores the injustices encountered by women in a ‘progressive society’ through Mudiyettu, a ritual dance performed in Kali Temples in Central Kerala. But is gender inequality the only visible problem in the play? Do mainstream feminist studies overshadow the issue of caste discrimination? Madathil’s play, Kali Natakam, is studied using the framework of Dalit feminism to understand the triple oppression Dalit women experience based on their caste, gender and race differences. Through an amalgamation of the myth of Kali and Darika, and a portrayal of contemporary society, the play complicates the notion of gender and caste discrimination. This article uses the concept of ‘intersectionality,’ introduced by Kimberlé Crenshaw in 1989, to understand the play in the dimensions of gender, caste and race. The basis of Dalit feminism is the testimonies given by Dalit women revealing how their everyday lives differed from those of non-Dalit women. First-person narratives lead in building the canvas of feminist thought in connection with caste identity. And how monopolizing gender by sideling race and caste differences ends in shunning some of the significant concerns and problems of women of different communities, especially Dalits. Considering the gender and caste element, a Dalit feminist analysis becomes the most appropriate way to study the play instead of doing separate studies. Recognizing the intersectionality in the play leads to comprehending the complexities of discrimination operating at multiple levels.
Mapping the catastrophic imaginary: The organisation of environmental politics through climate change
Authors: Beuret Nicholas
Published: April 2023

Stories about the end of the world continue to pile up daily. There isn’t any sense of respite from the litany of horrors we are presented with. The eerie atmosphere of ecological catastrophe colonises our political imaginations. Understanding how we collectively imagine the end of the world, and thus how we understand what is happening, why and how, as well as what we must and can do, is politically crucial. The vast tapestry of environmental crises makes the role of the imagination central; not only in terms of being able to know the crises, but in setting out what is concretely possible and what is cruel fantasy. This paper sets out to map the imaginary of ecological catastrophe as drawn from the body of non-fiction literature that fuels much contemporary environmental activism in the Global North. Taking up the work of a series of environmental writer-activists in order to outline the various refrains that comprise the core of the eco-catastrophic imaginary, I aim to sketch how the slow violence of the present is being narrated as a political event, and what possibilities for averting disaster appear possible. It is the argument of this paper that how we collectively imagine the cacophony of environmental disasters presently unfolding shapes the field of political action.
Epidemiological profile of microbial keratitis in Alexandria-Egypt a 5 years retrospective study
Authors: Sakr Suzan Ibrahim , Nayel Amira Ahmed , Habeel Christeena Saeed , Elkhabiry Hala Kamal , Ibrahim Ghada Mahmoud , Tolba Mona Mohamed , Ghaith Alaa Atef
Published: April 2023

Objective

To evaluate the epidemiologic profile of microbial keratitis in Alexandria- Egypt, with special emphasis on risk factors, visual outcome and microbiological results.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed files of patients treated for microbial keratitis during a period of 5 years at Alexandria Ophthalmology Hospital Cornea Clinic, Alexandria- Egypt, between February 2017 and June 2022. The patients were evaluated for the risk factors e.g., trauma, eyelid disorders, co-morbidities, and contact lens use. They were also evaluated for their clinical picture, the identified microorganisms, visual outcomes, and complications. Non-microbial keratitis and incomplete files were excluded from the study.

Results

A total of 284 patients were diagnosed as microbial keratitis in our study. Viral keratitis was the most common cause of microbial keratitis (n = 118 (41.55%)), followed by bacterial keratitis (n = 77 (27.11%)), mixed keratitis (n = 51 (17.96%)), acanthamoeba keratitis (n = 22 (7.75%)) and the least cause was fungal keratitis (n = 16 (5.63%)). Trauma was the most common risk factor for microbial keratitis (29.2%). Fungal keratitis had a statistically significant association with trauma (p < 0.001), while the use of contact lenses had a statistically significant association withAcanthamoebakeratitis (p < 0.001). The percentage of culture-positive results in our study was 76.8%. Gram-positive bacteria were the most frequently isolated bacterial isolate (n = 25 (36.2%)), while filamentous fungi were the most frequently isolated fungi (n = 13(18.8%)). After treatment, there was a significant increase in the mean visual acuity among all groups; it was significantly higher inAcanthamoebakeratitis group with a mean difference of 0.262 ± 0.161 (p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Viral keratitis followed by bacterial keratitis were the most frequent etiologic agents causing microbial keratitis found in our study. Although trauma was the most frequent risk factor for microbial keratitis, contact lens wear was found an important preventable risk factor for microbial keratitis in young patients. Performing culture properly whenever indicated before starting antimicrobial treatment increased the cultures’ positive results.
Effect of low-magnitude, variable-frequency vibration therapy on pain threshold levels and mobility in adults with moderate knee osteoarthritis—randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pasterczyk-Szczurek Alicja , Golec Joanna , Golec Edward
Published: April 2023

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most commonly recorded diseases in clinical practice. Vibration therapy has been suggested for the treatment of knee OA. The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of vibrations of variable frequency and low amplitude on pain perception and mobility in patients suffering from knee OA.

Methods

Thirty-two participants were allocated into two groups – Group 1 (oscillatory cycloidal vibrotherapy-OCV) and Group 2—control (sham therapy). The participants were diagnosed with moderate degenerative changes in the knee (grade II based on the Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) Grading Scale). Subjects received 15 sessions of vibration therapy and sham therapy respectively. Pain, range of motion, and functional disability were assessed through Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Laitinen questionnaire, goniometer (ROM – range of motion), timed up and go test (TUG) and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Measurements were taken at baseline, after the last session and four weeks after the last session (follow up). T-test and U-Mann Whitney test compare baseline characteristics. The Wilcoxon and ANOVA tests compared mean VAS, Laitinen, ROM, TUG and KOOS. The significantP-value was less than 0.05.

Results

After 3 weeks (15 sessions) of vibration therapy, reduced the sensation of pain and improved mobility was recorded. There was a more significant improvement in the vibration therapy group than the control group in pain alleviation on VAS scale (p < 0.001), on Laitinen scale (p < 0.001), knee ROMs flexions (p < 0.001) and TUG (p < 0.001) at the last session. KOOS score with pain indicator, symptoms, activities of daily living, function in sport and recreation and knee related quality of life improved more in the vibration therapy group than the control group. Effects maintained up to 4 weeks in vibration group. No adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrated that the use of vibrations of variable frequency and low amplitude in patients with the knee OA is a safe and effective therapy. It is recommended to increase the number of treatments performed, primarily in patients with degeneration II° according to the KL classification.

Trial registration

Prospectively registered on ANZCTR (ACTRN12619000832178). Registered on 11 June 2019.
The role of co-occurring insomnia and mental distress in the association between lumbar disc degeneration and low back pain related disability
Authors: Mertimo Teija , Heikkala Eveliina , Niinimäki Jaakko , Blanco Sequeiros Roberto , Määttä Juhani , Kankaanpää Markku , Oura Petteri , Karppinen Jaro
Published: April 2023

Background

Lumbar disc degeneration (LDD) is associated with low back pain (LBP). Although both insomnia and mental distress appear to influence the pain experience, their role in the association between LDD and LBP is uncertain. Our objective was to investigate the role of co-occurring insomnia and mental distress in the association between LDD and LBP-related disability.

Methods

A total of 1080 individuals who had experienced LBP during the previous year underwent 1.5-T lumbar magnetic resonance imaging, responded to questionnaires, and participated in a clinical examination at the age of 47. Full data was available for 843 individuals. The presence of LBP and LBP-related disability (numerical rating scale, range 0–10) were assessed using a questionnaire. LDD was assessed by a Pfirrmann-based sum score (range 0–15, higher values indicating higher LDD). The role of insomnia (according to the five-item Athens Insomnia Scale) and mental distress (according to the Hopkins Symptom Check List-25) in the association between the LDD sum score and LBP-related disability was analyzed using linear regression with adjustments for sex, smoking, body mass index, education, leisure-time physical activity, occupational physical exposure, Modic changes, and disc herniations.

Results

A positive association between LDD and LBP-related disability was observed among those with absence of both mental distress and insomnia (adjusted B = 0.132, 95% CI = 0.028–0.236, p = 0.013), and among those with either isolated mental distress (B = 0.345 CI = 0.039﻿–0.650, p = 0.028) or isolated insomnia (B = 0.207, CI = 0.040–0.373, p = 0.015). However, among individuals with co-occurring insomnia and mental distress, the association was not significant (B = -0.093, CI = -0.346-0.161, p = 0.470).

Conclusions

LDD does not associate with LBP-related disability when insomnia and mental distress co-occur. This finding may be useful when planning treatment and rehabilitation that aim to reduce disability among individuals with LDD and LBP. Future prospective research is warranted.
Effects of intraoperative fluid balance during pancreatoduodenectomy on postoperative pancreatic fistula: an observational cohort study
Authors: Zhang Le , Zhang Yuelun , Shen Le
Published: April 2023

Background

Perioperative fluid management during major abdominal surgery has been controversial. Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is a critical complication of pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). We conducted a retrospective cohort study to analyze the impact of intraoperative fluid balance on the development of POPF.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study enrolled 567 patients who underwent open pancreaticoduodenectomy, and the demographic, laboratory, and medical data were recorded. All patients were categorized into four groups according to quartiles of intraoperative fluid balance. Multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic splines (RCSs) were used to analyze the relationship between intraoperative fluid balance and POPF.

Results

The intraoperative fluid balance of all patients ranged from -8.47 to 13.56 mL/kg/h. A total of 108 patients reported POPF, and the incidence was 19.0%. After adjusting for potential confounders and using restricted cubic splines, the dose‒response relationship between intraoperative fluid balance and POPF was found to be statistically insignificant. The incidences of bile leakage, postpancreatectomy hemorrhage, and delayed gastric emptying were 4.4%, 20.8%, and 14.8%, respectively. Intraoperative fluid balance was not associated with these abdominal complications. BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, preoperative blood glucose < 6 mmol/L, long surgery time, and lesions not located in the pancreas were independent risk factors for POPF.

Conclusion

The study did not find a significant association between intraoperative fluid balance and POPF. Well-designed multicenter studies are necessary to explore the association between intraoperative fluid balance and POPF.
Practice of the training program for ophthalmic specialist nurses in Zhejiang Province of China
Authors: Jiang Dandan , Chen Huarong , Zhang Mengyue , Zhang Saijin , Xu Jingjing , Chen Yanyan , Shi Yinghui
Published: April 2023

Aims

To explore the effects of training programs for ophthalmic specialist nurses in Zhejiang Province of China.

Methods

The training program included one month of theoretical training and three months of practical clinical training. The Two-Tutor system was used in training. The training contents were mainly set up around four modules: specialty knowledge and clinical skills, management, clinical teaching, and nursing research. We used theoretical examination, clinical practice assessment and trainee evaluation to assess the effectiveness of the training program. Before and after the training, the trainees’ core competence was assessed by a homemade questionnaire.

Results

In total, 48 trainees from 7 provinces (municipalities) in China participated in the training program. All trainees passed theoretical and clinical practice examinations and trainee evaluations. Their core competencies were significantly improved after training (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This training program for ophthalmic specialist nurses is scientific and effective in improving nurses’ ability to provide ophthalmic specialist nursing care.
An action-oriented public health framework to reduce financial strain and promote financial wellbeing in high-income countries
Authors: Nykiforuk Candace I. J. , Belon Ana Paula , de Leeuw Evelyne , Harris Patrick , Allen-Scott Lisa , Atkey Kayla , Glenn Nicole M. , Hyshka Elaine , Jaques Karla , Kongats Krystyna , Montesanti Stephanie , Nieuwendyk Laura M. , Pabayo Roman , Springett Jane , Yashadhana Aryati
Published: April 2023

Background

Perceived financial security impacts physical, mental, and social health and overall wellbeing at community and population levels. Public health action on this dynamic is even more critical now that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated financial strain and reduced financial wellbeing. Yet, public health literature on this topic is limited. Initiatives targeting financial strain and financial wellbeing and their deterministic effects on equity in health and living conditions are missing. Our research-practice collaborative project addresses this gap in knowledge and intervention through an action-oriented public health framework for initiatives targeting financial strain and wellbeing.

Methods

The Framework was developed using a multi-step methodology that involved review of theoretical and empirical evidence alongside input from a panel of experts from Australia and Canada. In an integrated knowledge translation approach, academics (n = 14) and a diverse group of experts from government and non-profit sectors (n = 22) were engaged throughout the project via workshops, one-on-one dialogues, and questionnaires.

Results

The validated Framework provides organizations and governments with guidance for the design, implementation, and assessment of diverse financial wellbeing- and financial strain-related initiatives. It presents 17 priority actionable areas (i.e., entry points for action) likely to have long-lasting, positive effects on people’s financial circumstances, contributing to improved financial wellbeing and health. The 17 entry points relate to five domains: Government (All Levels), Organizational & Political Culture, Socioeconomic & Political Context, Social & Cultural Circumstances, and Life Circumstances.

Conclusions

The Framework reveals the intersectionality of root causes and consequences of financial strain and poor financial wellbeing, while also reinforcing the need for tailored actions to promote socioeconomic and health equity for all people. The dynamic, systemic interplay of the entry points illustrated in the Framework suggest opportunities for multi-sectoral, collaborative action across government and organizations towards systems change and the prevention of unintended negative impacts of initiatives.
Caffeine activates HOG-signalling and inhibits pseudohyphal growth in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Elhasi Tarek , Blomberg Anders
Published: April 2023

Objective

Caffeine has a wide range of effects in humans and other organisms. Caffeine activates p38 MAPK, the human homolog to the Hog1 protein that orchestrates the high-osmolarity glycerol (HOG) response to osmotic stress in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Caffeine has also been used as an inducer of cell-wall stress in yeast via its activation of the Pkc1-mediated cell wall integrity (CWI) pathway. In this study, using immunodetection of phosphorylated Hog1, microscopy to score nuclear localisation of GFP-tagged Hog1 and a pseudohyphal growth assays, the effect of caffeine on the HOG-pathway and filamentous growth in yeast was studied.

Results

It was found that caffeine causes rapid, strong and transient Hog1 dual phosphorylation with statistically significant increases at 20, 30 and 40 mM caffeine. In response to caffeine treatment Hog1 was also rapidly localized to the nucleus, supporting the caffeine-induced phosphorylation and activation of Hog1. We also found that caffeine inhibited the pseudohyphal/filamentous growth in diploid cells, but had no effect on invasive growth in haploids. Our data thus highlights that the HOG signalling pathway is activated by caffeine, which has implications for interpreting caffeine responses in yeast and fungi.
Use of disease assessment tools to increase the value of case reports on Susac syndrome: two case reports
Authors: Bullock Danielle R. , Spencer Robert T. , Vehe Richard K. , Srivastava Sunil , Rennebohm Robert M.
Published: April 2023

Background

Susac syndrome is an immune-mediated, ischemia-producing, occlusive microvascular endotheliopathy that threatens the brain, retina, and inner ear. There is a need for disease assessment tools that can help clinicians and patients to more easily, accurately, and uniformly track the clinical course and outcome of Susac syndrome. Ideally, such tools should simultaneously facilitate the clinical care and study of Susac syndrome and improve the value of future case reports. To meet this need, two novel clinical assessment tools were developed: the Susac Symptoms Form and the Susac Disease Damage Score. The former is a comprehensive self-report form that is completed by patients/families to serially document the clinical status of a patient. The latter documents the extent of damage perceived by individual patients/families and their physicians. Both forms were initially trialed with two particularly representative and instructive patients. The results of this trial are shared in this report.

Case presentation

Patient 1 is a 21-year-old Caucasian female who presented with an acute onset of headache, paresthesias, cognitive dysfunction, and emotional lability. Patient 2 is a 14-year-old Caucasian female who presented with an acute onset of headache, cognitive dysfunction, urinary incontinence, ataxia, and personality change. Both patients fulfilled criteria for a definite diagnosis of Susac syndrome: both eventually developed brain, retinal, and inner ear involvement, and both had typical “snowball lesions” on magnetic resonance imaging. The Susac Symptoms Form documented initial improvement in both patients, was sufficiently sensitive in detecting a subsequent relapse in the second patient, and succinctly documented the long-term clinical course in both patients. The Disease Damage Score documented minimal disease damage in the first patient and more significant damage in the second.

Conclusions

The Susac Symptoms Form and the Disease Damage Score are useful disease assessment tools, both for clinical care and research purposes. Their use could enhance the value of future case reports on Susac syndrome and could improve opportunities to learn from a series of such reports.
A cross-sectional study on the relationship between electronic cigarette and combustible cigarette use with obstructive sleep apnea among U.S. adults: result from NHANES 2015–2018
Authors: Zhu Hong , Wu Meng
Published: April 2023

Background

To explore whether the use of e-cigarettes and conventional cigarettes affects the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults.

Methods

Complete records of smoking and sleep about OSA from the 2015–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The adults were divided into four groups: noncurrent smokers, current electronic cigarettes (e-cigarette) users only, current conventional cigarettes (c-cigarette) users only, and dual users. OSA was assessed by three main signs and symptoms from the questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression after adjusting for covariates was conducted to investigate the association of OSA with different smoking patterns.

Results

Among the 11,248 participants, the prevalence of OSA was higher among smokers compared to non-smokers (P < 0.0001). In a stratified analysis of smoke manners, the results showed that an increased prevalence of OSA with c-cigarette use alone (OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.17–1.63) and dual-use (OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.37–2.32) compared to non-smoking participants, while there was no significant difference with e-cigarette use (OR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.52–1.37). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed the prevalence of OSA is highest in dual users (OR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.39–2.69) than non-smokers.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate the prevalence of OSA was higher in c-cigarette smokers than in non-smokers, while there was no significant difference in the prevalence of OSA between e-cigarette smokers and non-smokers. Dual users had the highest prevalence for OSA compared to c-cigarette smokers, e-cigarette smokers and non-smokers.
The D-model for GDP nowcasting
Authors: Degiannakis Stavros
Published: April 2023

The paper provides a disaggregated mixed-frequency framework for the estimation of GDP. The GDP is disaggregated into components that can be forecasted based on information available at higher sampling frequency, i.e., monthly, weekly, or daily. The model framework is applied for Greek GDP nowcasting. The results provide evidence that the more accurate nowcasting estimations require (i) the disaggregation of GDP, (ii) the use of a multilayer mixed-frequency framework, and (iii) the inclusion of financial information on a daily frequency. The simulation study provides evidence in favor of the disaggregation into components despite the inclusion of multiple sources of forecast errors.
Moving from assessments to implementation: promising practices for strengthening multisectoral antimicrobial resistance containment capacity
Authors: Joshi Mohan P. , Alombah Fozo , Konduri Niranjan , Ndiaye Antoine , Kusu Ndinda , Kiggundu Reuben , Lusaya Edgar Peter , Tuala Tuala Robert , Embrey Martha , Hafner Tamara , Traore Ousmane , Mbaye Mame , Akinola Babatunde , Namburete Denylson , Acho Alphonse , Hema Yacouba , Getahun Workineh , Sayem Md Abu , Nfor Emmanuel
Published: April 2023

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global threat to human, animal, and environmental health. AMR is a technical area in the Global Health Security Agenda initiative which uses the Joint External Evaluation tool to evaluate national AMR containment capacity. This paper describes four promising practices for strengthening national antimicrobial resistance containment capacity based on the experiences of the US Agency for International Development’s Medicines, Technologies, and Pharmaceutical Services Program work with 13 countries to implement their national action plans on AMR in the areas of multisectoral coordination, infection prevention and control, and antimicrobial stewardship.

Methods

We use the World Health Organization (WHO) Benchmarks on International Health Regulations Capacities (2019) to guide national, subnational, and facility actions that advance Joint External Evaluation capacity levels from 1 (no capacity) to 5 (sustainable capacity). Our technical approach is based on scoping visits, baseline Joint External Evaluation scores, benchmarks tool guidance, and country resources and priorities.

Results

We gleaned four promising practices to achieve AMR containment objectives: (1) implement appropriate actions using the WHO benchmarks tool, which prioritizes actions, making it easier for countries to incrementally increase their Joint External Evaluation capacity from level 1 to 5; (2) integrate AMR into national and global agendas. Ongoing agendas and programs at international, regional, and national levels provide opportunities to mainstream and interlink AMR containment efforts; (3) improve governance through multisectoral coordination on AMR. Strengthening multisectoral bodies’ and their technical working groups’ governance improved functioning, which led to better engagement with animal/agricultural sectors and a more coordinated COVID-19 pandemic response; and (4) mobilize and diversify funding for AMR containment. Long-term funding from diversified funding streams is vital for advancing and sustaining countries’ Joint External Evaluation capacities.

Conclusions

The Global Health Security Agenda work has provided practical support to countries to frame and conduct AMR containment actions in terms of pandemic preparedness and health security. The WHO benchmarks tool that Global Health Security Agenda uses serves as a standardized organizing framework to prioritize capacity-appropriate AMR containment actions and transfer skills to help operationalize national action plans on AMR.
The Impact of a National Cyberattack Affecting Clinical Trials: The Cancer Trials Ireland Experience
Authors: Harvey Harry , Carroll Hailey , Murphy Verena , Ballot Jo , O'Grady Maureen , O'Hare Debra , Lawler Gavin , Bennett Erica , Connolly Michelle , Noone Emma , Kelly Mary Grace , Bazin Ashley , Daly Ailish , Mulroe Eibhlin , McDermott Ray , O'Reilly Seamus
Published: April 2023

PURPOSE

Cyberattacks are increasing in health care and cause immediate disruption to patient care, have a lasting impact, and compromise scientific integrity of affected clinical trials. On the May 14, 2021, the Irish health service was the victim of a nationwide ransomware attack. Patient care was disrupted across 4,000 locations, including 18 cancer clinical trials units associated with Cancer Trials Ireland (CTI). This report analyses the impact of the cyberattack on the organization and proposes steps to mitigate the impact of future cyberattacks.

METHODS

A questionnaire was distributed to the units within the CTI group; this examined key performance indicators for a period of 4 weeks before, during, and after the attack, and was supplemented by minutes of weekly conference call with CTI units to facilitate information sharing, accelerate mitigation, and support affected units. A total of 10 responses were returned, from three private and seven public hospitals.

RESULTS

The effect of the attack on referrals and enrollment to trials was marked, resulting in a drop of 85% in referrals and 55% in recruitment before recovery. Radiology, radiotherapy, and laboratory systems are heavily reliant on information technology systems. Access to all was affected. Lack of preparedness was highlighted as a significant issue. Of the sites surveyed, two had a preparedness plan in place before the attack, both of these being private institutions. Of the eight institutions where no plan was in place, three now have or are putting a plan in place, whereas no plan is in place at the five remaining sites.

CONCLUSION

The cyberattack had a dramatic and sustained impact on trial conduct and accrual. Increased cybermaturity needs to be embedded in clinical trial logistics and the units conducting them.
A CARREIRA ESPORTIVA DE ALTO RENDIMENTO E O EQUILÍBRIO ENTRE TRABALHO E VIDA PRIVADA
Authors: Teixeira Thatiana Stacanelli , Cappelle Mônica Carvalho Alves
Published: April 2023

Objetivo foi analisar o equilíbrio na relação trabalho e vida privada de ex-atletas durante o tempo de atuação no esporte profissional. Adotou-se uma orientação epistemológica interpretativa, optando pela análise de conteúdo, sendo investigadas as influências do contexto social na decisão da carreira e interferências da vida privada na carreira esportiva. Os resultados demonstram que a relação entre trabalho e vida privada de ex-atletas é marcada por instabilidades que fazem que os indivíduos abandonem ou mudem de profissão, visto que há uma série de interferências negativas, como insatisfação de retorno financeiro e ausência de equilíbrio entre trabalho e vida pessoal, quando se vive como atleta profissional. Constata-se que eles optam por continuar sua progressão na carreira esportiva como educadores, treinadores e membros de associações atléticas, não rompendo seus vínculos com a modalidade praticada.
Μελέτη των πολυμορφισμών Xbal και Pvull του οιστρογονικού υποδοχέα τύπου α σε κορίτσια με πρώιμη ήβη
Authors: Θεοδωροπούλου Σοφία
Published: April 2023

Στόχος: Οι μελέτες που εξετάζουν τη συσχέτιση των πολυμορφισμών του υποδοχέα των οιστρογόνων άλφα (ERα) με την πρώιμη εφηβεία είναι σπάνιες και τα αποτελέσματα είναι αμφιλεγόμενα, ενώ λείπουν τα δεδομένα σε καυκάσια κορίτσια. Κύριος στόχος ήταν να προσδιοριστεί η συσχέτιση των πολυμορφισμών XbaI (A/G rs9340799) και PvuII (T/C rs2234693) του οιστρογονικού υποδοχέα τύπου α µε την εκδήλωση ιδιοπαθούς πρώιµης ήβης σε κορίτσια ελληνικής καταγωγής. Υλικό και µέθοδος: Συνολικά µελετήθηκαν 107 κορίτσια που παρακολουθούνται στο εξωτερικό παιδοενδοκρινολογικό ιατρείο του ΠΓΝΑ «Αττικόν» λόγω πρώιµης ήβης, και 87 ακόµη νεαρές γυναίκες µε φυσιολογική ηλικία έναρξης της ήβης, οι οποίες χρησίµευσαν ως µάρτυρες. Στον πληθυσµό της µελέτης ελήφθη λεπτοµερές ατοµικό αναµνηστικό και κληρονοµικό ιστορικό. Το στάδιο της ήβης, το ύψος SDS (HSDS) και το BMI z-score προσδιορίστηκαν στις ασθενείς. Στους μάρτυρες μετρήθηκε το ύψος και η ηλικία εμμηναρχής δηλώθηκε από τις ίδιες. Για ολους τους συμμετέχοντες στη μελέτη εγινε ανιχνευση των γονότυπων των 2 πολυμορφισμων.Αποτελέσματα: Δεν υπήρχε στατιστικά σημαντική διαφορά στους πολυμορφισμούς XbaI και PvuII μεταξύ ασθενών και μαρτύρων. Τα ομόζυγα, xx και pp, κορίτσια είχαν πρωιμότερη έναρξη της ήβης, αν και μη στατιστικα σημαντική, από τα ετερόζυγα ή χωρίς πολυμορφισμούς p = 0,9. Στα κορίτσια με έναρξη της ήβης <7 ετών, η συσχέτιση έτεινε να γίνει σημαντική, p = 0,09. Τα κορίτσια με γονότυπο xxpp ήταν σημαντικά ψηλότερα, HSDS 1,63, p = 0,014. Στους μάρτυρες , η ομοζυγωτία για Xbal (xx) και PvuII (pp) συσχετίστηκε με σημαντικά νωρίτερη εμμηναρχή από ό,τι σε γυναίκες χωρίς πολυμορφισμό, p = 0,013 και p = 0,026, αντίστοιχα, και ο γονότυπος xxpp συσχετίστηκε με ψηλότερο ύψος ενηλίκων, p = 0,017. Συμπέρασμα: Οι πολυμορφισμοί XbaI και PvuII δεν σχετίζονται με την ιδιοπαθή πρώιμη ήβη. Τα κορίτσια με πρώιμη ήβη που ήταν ομόζυγα και για τους δύο πολυμορφισμούς παρουσίασαν νωρίτερη έναρξη της ήβης, αν και στατιστικά μη σημαντική, και ψηλότερο ύψος από τα κορίτσια που ήταν ετερόζυγα ή χωρίς αυτούς τους πολυμορφισμούς. Η ομοζυγωτία και για τους δύο πολυμορφισμούς σχετίζεται με πρωιμότερη εμμηναρχή και υψηλότερο ύψος ενηλίκων.
GRAPE: genomic relatedness detection pipeline
Authors: Medvedev Alexander , Lebedev Mikhail , Ponomarev Andrew , Kosaretskiy Mikhail , Osipenko Dmitriy , Tischenko Alexander , Kosaretskiy Egor , Wang Hui , Kolobkov Dmitry , Chamberlain-Evans Vitalina , Vakhitov Ruslan , Nikonorov Pavel
Published: April 2023

Classifying the degree of relatedness between pairs of individuals has both scientific and commercial applications. As an example, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) may suffer from high rates of false positive results due to unrecognized population structure. This problem becomes especially relevant with recent increases in large-cohort studies. Accurate relationship classification is also required for genetic linkage analysis to identify disease-associated loci. Additionally, DNA relatives matching service is one of the leading drivers for the direct-to-consumer genetic testing market. Despite the availability of scientific and research information on the methods for determining kinship and the accessibility of relevant tools, the assembly of the pipeline, which stably operates on a real-world genotypic data, requires significant research and development resources. Currently, there is no open source end-to-end solution for relatedness detection in genomic data, that is fast, reliable and accurate for both close and distant degrees of kinship, combines all the necessary processing steps to work on a real data, and is ready for production integration. To address this, we developed GRAPE: Genomic RelAtedness detection PipelinE. It combines data preprocessing, identity-by-descent (IBD) segments detection, and accurate relationship estimation. The project uses software development best practices, as well as Global Alliance for Genomics and Health (GA4GH) standards and tools. Pipeline efficiency is demonstrated on both simulated and real-world datasets. GRAPE is available from: https://github.com/genxnetwork/grape.
Microplastic content of over-the-counter toothpastes - a systematic review
Authors: Chengappa S Kavery , Rao Ashwini , K S Aparna , Jodalli Praveen S , Shenoy Kudpi Ramya
Published: April 2023

Background: Microplastic particles are used as ingredients in personal care products such as face washes, shower gels and toothpastes and form one of the main sources of microplastic pollution, especially in the marine environment. In addition to being a potential pollutant to the environment, the transfer of microplastics to humans can become a severe threat to public health. This systematic review was conceptualized to identify evidence for the presence of and characteristics of microplastics in toothpaste formulations.

Methods: The PICOS Criteria was used for including studies for the review. Electronic databases of Scopus, Embase, Springer Link, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar were searched, as well as hand and reference searching of the articles was carried out. The articles were screened using the software application, Covidence® and data was extracted.

Results: This systematic review showed that toothpastes from China, Vietnam, Myanmar and the UAE, reported no evidence of microplastics and those from Malaysia, Turkey and India reported the presence of microplastics. The shape of the microplastics present in these toothpastes were found to be granular, irregular with opaque appearance and also in the form of fragments and fibers and the percentage weight in grams ranged from 0.2 to 7.24%.

Malaysia releases 0.199 trillion microbeads annually from personal care products into the environment and toothpastes in Turkey release an average of 871 million grams of microplastics annually. Similarly, in India, it has been reported that 1.4 billion grams of microplastic particles are emitted annually from toothpaste.

Conclusions: The findings of this systematic review provide evidence that toothpastes, at least in some parts of the world, do contain microplastics and that there is a great risk of increase in the addition of microplastics to the environment by the use of toothpaste.
The identification of high-performing antibodies for Superoxide dismutase [Cu-Zn] 1 (SOD1) for use in Western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence
Authors: Ayoubi Riham , Alshafie Walaa , You Zhipeng , Southern Kathleen , McPherson Peter S. , Laflamme Carl
Published: April 2023

Superoxide dismutase [Cu-Zn] 1 (SOD1), is an antioxidant enzyme encoded by the gene SOD1, responsible for regulating oxidative stress levels by sequestering free radicals. Identified as the first gene with mutations in Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), SOD1 is a determinant for studying diseases of aging and neurodegeneration. With guidance on well-characterized anti-SOD1 antibodies, the reproducibility of SOD1 research would be enhanced. In this study, we characterized eleven SOD1 commercial antibodies for Western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence using a standardized experimental protocol based on comparing read-outs in knockout cell lines and isogenic parental controls. We identified many high-performing antibodies and encourage readers to use this report as a guide to select the most appropriate antibody for their specific needs.
Hesitancy towards the COVID-19 vaccine among health care practitioners in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Almojaibel Abdullah A. , Ansari Khalid , Alzahrani Yahya A. , Alessy Saleh A. , Farooqi Faraz A. , Alqurashi Yousef D.
Published: April 2023

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a major public health crisis worldwide. In less than 12 months since the World Health Organization declared the outbreak, several different COVID-19 vaccines have been approved and deployed mostly in developed countries since January 2021. However, hesitancy to accept the newly developed vaccines is a well-known public health challenge that needs to be addressed. The aim of this study was to measure willingness and hesitancy toward COVID-19 vaccines among health care practitioners' (HCPs) in Saudi Arabia.  

Methods: A cross-sectional study using an online self-reported survey was conducted among HCPs in Saudi Arabia between April 4th to April 25th 2021 using snowball sampling. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify the possible factors affecting HCPs’ willingness and hesitancy to receive COVID-19 vaccines.  

Results: Out of 776 participants who started the survey, 505 (65%) completed it and were included in the results. Among all HCPs, 47 (9.3%) either said “no” to receive the vaccine [20 (4%)] or were hesitant to receive it [27 (5.3%)]. Of the total number of the HCPs, 376 (74.5%) already received the COVID-19 vaccine, and 48 (9.50%) were registered to receive it. The main reason of agreement to receive the COVID-19 vaccine was “wanting to protect self and others from getting the infection” (24%).  

Conclusion: Our findings have shown that hesitancy toward receiving COVID-19 vaccines among HCPs in Saudi Arabia is limited and therefore may not be a serious issue. The outcomes of this study may help to understand factors that lead to vaccine hesitancy in Saudi Arabia and help public health authorities to design targeted health education interventions aiming to increase uptake of these vaccines.
Foreign language acquisition of perceptually similar segments: evidence from Lower Sorbian
Authors: Howson Phil J.
Published: April 2023

Lower Sorbian is a moribund language spoken in Eastern Germany that features a three-way sibilant contrast, /s, ʂ, ɕ/. The vast majority of L1 speakers are above eighty years of age and virtually no young Sorbians learn Lower Sorbian as their first language. There are language revitalization programs in place, but this means that virtually all Lower Sorbian speakers are L2 learners whose first language is German. German, as opposed to Lower Sorbian, has a two-way sibilant contrast, /s, ʃ/. So, Lower Sorbian learners need to acquire a perceptually similar sibilant contrast, /ʂ, ɕ/, that commonly assimilates with a single L1 segment, /ʃ/. The two-to-one assimilation makes acquisition difficult. In this project, I examine the acquisition of the three-way sibilant contrast using ultrasound technology. The findings are put into the context of models of L2 acquisition and generalized implications for foreign language acquisition are discussed.
Biblia Jakuba Wujka i Justusa Rabba. Postylla katolicka mniejsza z 1590 roku jako świadek tekstowy przekładu Nowego Testamentu sprzed pierwszej cenzury (1591–1592)
Authors: Rubik Tadeusz
Published: April 2023

Autor argumentuje na rzecz tezy, że specyficzne cechy przekładu Nowego Testamentu Jakuba Wujka z 1593 r. (brak literalizmu) stanowią wynik współpracy tłumacza z Justusem Rabbem w latach 1591–1592. W kolejnych podrozdziałach autor opisuje metodę przyjętą w niniejszej pracy, przedstawia wyniki analizy przekładu perykop ewangelicznych w poszczególnych wydaniach Postylli katolickiej Wujka i Nowym Testamencie z 1593 r., a także omawia materiał źródłowy dotyczący przedmiotu badań (korespondencja jezuitów, biogramy z epoki).
Listy Tomasza Tretera do biskupa Szymona Rudnickiego w sprawie introligatorów i księgarzy braniewskich Hansa i Tobiasa Bretnerów (1606, 1609)
Authors: Kiliańczyk-Zięba Justyna
Published: April 2023

Najważniejszą część artykułu stanowi edycja dwóch listów napisanych przez Tomasza Tretera do biskupa warmińskiego Szymona Rudnickiego. Listy te są godne uwagi jako przyczynek do dziejów książki na Warmii, Treter wstawiał się w nich bowiem za księgarzami i introligatorami z Braniewa. Listy ujawniają zakulisowe mechanizmy regulacji handlu książką na Warmii, pokazują, że ścierały się na tych terenach interesy miejscowych księgarzy i kupców przybywających z większych ośrodków, wspominają też rodzaje książek, o handel którymi konkurowano.
Kursy wojskowe, kształcenie zawodowe oraz praktyka rzemieślnicza uczestników emigracji polistopadowej we Francji w latach 1831–1834
Authors: Kuzicki Jerzy
Published: April 2023

Artykuł ukazuje problematykę związaną z przygotowaniem zawodowym, edukacją pozaszkolną oraz praktyką w przedsiębiorstwach francuskich uczestników Wielkiej Emigracji we Francji. Opisano kursy wojskowe, naukę języka francuskiego oraz praktykę w zakładach zbrojeniowych i rzemieślniczych. W artykule podjęto analizę indywidualnych przypadków byłych żołnierzy, podoficerów i oficerów powstańczych. Na podstawie kwerendy źródłowej stwierdzono, że wybierano profesje, które dawały nadzieję długoletniego zatrudnienia, jak zegarmistrzostwo, szewstwo, krawiectwo, farbiarstwo, cukrownictwo, drukarstwo i zecerstwo.
Likwidacja państwowych gospodarstw rolnych i pierwszy etap przekształceń własnościowych państwowego sektora rolnego. Przyczynek do badań
Authors: Machałek Małgorzata
Published: April 2023

Artykuł przedstawia uwarunkowania i przebieg likwidacji państwowych gospodarstw rolnych w latach 1991–1996 oraz początek przekształceń własnościowych w państwowym sektorze rolnym. Zostały omówione wybrane konsekwencje gospodarcze i społeczne tego procesu oraz zasygnalizowane główne pola kontrowersji związanych z oceną celów, strategii i skutków transformacji własnościowej państwowych gospodarstw rolnych. Tekst jest wprowadzeniem do dalszych badań.