bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous sclerotherapy with OK-432 for lymphocele after pelvic or para-aortic lymphadenectomy: preliminary results
Authors: Kashiwagi Eiji , Ono Yusuke , Yano Hiroki , Kosai Shinya , Nagai Keisuke , Tanaka Kaishu , Higashihara Hiroki , Tomiyama Noriyuki
Published: October 2022

Background

Lymphoceles can result from disruption of lymphatic vessels after surgical procedures in areas with extensive lymphatic networks. Percutaneous catheter drainage with sclerotherapy can be performed for the treatment of lymphoceles. OK-432 has been used to treat benign cysts, such as lymphangioma and ranula. Therefore, we aimed to report the efficacy and safety of sclerotherapy using OK-432 for postoperative lymphoceles. This study retrospectively analyzed 16 patients who underwent sclerotherapy using OK-432 for postoperative pelvic and para-aortic lymphoceles between April 1, 2012, and March 31, 2020. All the patients underwent percutaneous drainage before sclerotherapy. The indications for sclerotherapy were persistent drainage tube output of greater than 50 mL per day and recurrent lymphoceles after percutaneous drainage. If less than 20 mL per day was drained after sclerotherapy, the tube was removed. When the drainage tube output did not decrease to less than 20 mL per day after the first sclerotherapy, the second sclerotherapy was performed 1 week later. Technical success was defined as the completion of drainage and sclerotherapy procedures. Clinical success was defined as the resolution of the patient’s symptoms resulting from lymphoceles without surgical intervention. This study also evaluated the complications of sclerotherapy and their progress after sclerotherapy.

Results

The mean initial lymphocele size and drainage duration after sclerotherapy were 616 mL and 7.1 days, respectively. The technical success rate and clinical success rate were 100% and 93%, respectively. Thirteen patients were treated by one-session sclerotherapy and three patients were treated by two-session sclerotherapy. Minor complications (fever) were observed in eight patients (50%). A major complication (small bowel fistula) was observed in one patient (7%). No recurrence of lymphoceles was observed during the mean follow-up period of 17 months.

Conclusion

Sclerotherapy with OK-432 is an effective therapeutic method for postoperative lymphoceles. Although most complications are minor, a small bowel fistula was observed in one patient.
Microstructural, mechanical, and electrochemical analysis of carbon doped AISI carbon steels
Authors: Ishtiaq Muhammad , Inam Aqil , Tiwari Saurabh , Seol Jae Bok
Published: October 2022

The effect of carbon doping contents on the microstructure, hardness, and corrosion properties of heat-treated AISI steel grades of plain carbon steel was investigated in this study. Various microstructures including coarse ferrite-pearlite, fine ferrite-pearlite, martensite, and bainite were developed by different heat treatments i.e. annealing, normalizing, quenching, and austempering, respectively. The developed microstructures, micro-hardness, and corrosion properties were investigated by a light optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, electromechanical (Vickers Hardness tester), and electrochemical (Gamry Potentiostat) equipment, respectively. The highest corrosion rates were observed in bainitic microstructures (2.68–12.12 mpy), whereas the lowest were found in the fine ferritic-pearlitic microstructures (1.57–6.36 mpy). A direct correlation has been observed between carbon concentration and corrosion rate, i.e. carbon content resulted in an increase in corrosion rate (2.37 mpy for AISI 1020 to 9.67 mpy for AISI 1050 in annealed condition).
J. K. Rowling and the Echo Chamber of Secrets
Authors: Gwenffrewi Gina
Published: October 2022

This autoethnographic article attempts to capture the distress of a trans woman in Scotland at the transphobia in the legacy media's coverage of the J. K. Rowling furore in June 2020. Through the use of a frame narrative, the article analyses some of the transphobic elements of Rowling's essay published on June 10, 2020, originally titled “TERF Wars,” which prompted an online backlash and a subsequent cycle of negative legacy media coverage against trans people. The article deconstructs two opinion pieces in the Scotsman and the National that depict Rowling as a victim and trans women as abusive and/or delusional, with an accompanying association of trans women with virtual spaces, set against cis women inhabiting real-world spaces. The newspapers' subsequent, respective refusal to publish counter articles criticizing the opinion pieces is then described, with reference to the legacy media's more general cancel-culture narrative, described by Sara Ahmed as a “mechanism of power.” Concluding on the experience of having no personal voice or access to the kind of influence enjoyed by a transphobic legacy media, the article refers to Andrew Anastasia's conception of three modes of transgender voice to identify how only collective action can allow trans voices to be heard and effect change.
Feltness
Authors: Springgay Stephanie
Published: October 2022

Stephanie Springgay’s concept of feltness—which emerges from affect theory, queer and feminist theory, and feminist conceptions of more-than-human entanglements—is a set of intimate practices of creating art based on touch, affect, relationality, love, and responsibility. In this book, she explores how feltness is a radical pedagogy that can be practiced with diverse publics, including children, who are often left out of conversations about who can learn in radical ways. Springgay examines the results of a decade-long project in which researchers, artists, students, and teachers participated in events in North American elementary, secondary, and postsecondary institutions. In projects that ranged from children learning to be critics and artists to university students experimenting with building “a public” through art, participants blended participatory art creation with academic research to address social justice issues. Springgay shows how feltness can redefine who is imagined to be capable of complex feeling, experiential learning, embodied practice, social engagement, and intimate care. In this way, feltness fosters learning that disrupts and defamiliarizes schools and institutions, knowledge systems, values, and the legibility of art and research.
Returning to work at school during the COVID -19 pandemic, is it stressful for schoolteachers? Assessment of immediate psychological effects: a cross sectional study
Authors: Kamath Sowmini Padmanabh , Mithra Prasanna , K Jayashree , Kulkarni Vaman , Joshi Jayateertha , Kamath Padmanabh , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Pai Keshava
Published: October 2022

Background: The adoption of remote classes for students has been in vogue since the onset of the pandemic. Schools reopened in a phased manner after the second wave of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in India. Reverting to the regular face-to-face teaching for students became a challenge to the teachers and students, especially at times when there was an impending third wave on the way. The study aimed to assess the presence of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in teachers who attended reopened schools in the scenario of face-to-face classes. In addition, we studied the association of psychological symptoms with teachers' age groups, gender, school boards, and school institution type.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between October to December 2021 after schools had reopened. Data was collected using Google Form questionnaires in 124 schoolteachers. The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale - 21 Items (DASS-21) questionnaire assessed the psychological symptoms.

Results: Of 124 schoolteachers, 108(87.1%) were female, 112 (90.3%) were from private institutions, and 70(56.5%) were from Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) school boards. The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress in teachers was 30.6%, 45.2%, and 20.2%, respectively. Nearly 80% of the female teachers expressed depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms. Amongst all the age groups, symptoms were higher in 40-49 group. We found anxiety to be statistically significant when compared with gender (p-0.042). We found no statistically significant differences concerning age groups, school boards, or school institutions with any psychological symptoms.

Conclusions: The prevalence of psychological symptoms was high among schoolteachers after schools reopened for regular face-to-face teaching. Gender was associated with anxiety in teachers. We agree that identifying teachers' symptoms and providing adequate psychological counseling/support would improve their mental health status and thereby the quality of teaching to students.
Green campus universities: case studies on problems and prospects
Authors: Mahdee Junainah , Abu Bakar Normazalila , Oh Kim Seng Vincent
Published: October 2022

Background: Sustainability is a crucial social issue. In recent years, many scholars have suggested that the issue should be tackled at universities because they act as leaders in education, research and innovation. Universities are in a good position to foster progressive action towards global issues within current and future generations. As universities seek to create sustainable campuses, the green campus approach can create opportunities for a cultural paradigm shift, where universities become global leaders in sustainability. There have been various studies related to sustainability issues that include how universities can seek to create sustainable campuses. However, there are some gaps in the research on the “green campus approach” as a way to create sustainable campuses. This paper intends to examine the problems and prospects of creating a green campus university.  

Methods: Data collection was conducted using the qualitative method. Structured interviews and observations were conducted via visits to the selected case-study universities as well as panels and discussions with experts in respective ministry and government agencies. All collected data were transcribed before being analysed using the NVivo software and thematic coding. 

Results: Most universities in Malaysia have plans toward sustainability and the green campus approach. The awareness of going green and creating sustainability on university campuses has gradually increased. A strategic framework is needed as a guideline for creating green campuses in the higher education setting of Malaysia. 

Conclusions: This study offers new insights into creating green campus universities in Malaysia as a means to create sustainability in higher education settings. The study involved three of the oldest universities in Malaysia. Future research may expand into other universities in Malaysia or internationally.
Fate of Plastics in Cattle Digestive Systems
Authors: Sheehan Kate Lyn , Lawson Paige , Emerson Bart
Published: October 2022

Highlights

Two herds of cattle at a university teaching farm had plastic fibers in their fecal matter.

The source was confirmed to be mineral supplements.

When consumed, supplements caused some degradation or fragmentation of plastics.

Abstract.Plastic products are a ubiquitous part of contemporary consumer products and can contain chemicals like plasticizers, colorings, flame retardants, and antimicrobials. When eaten, these substances can leech from plastics during digestion, and consequently, impact the health of the organisms that consume them. Here, we document plastic contaminants in the form of microfibers (0.5 to 15 mm), that we detected in the fecal matter of two herds of cattle on a college campus. Plastic incidence was similar (41%) for both herds, with a mean of 1 polyethylene microfiber occurring in every 2 g of feces. We confirmed the source of these plastic fibers was the mineral supplements that the cattle have access to year-round and detected the particles in two independent sources of mineral supplements. Despite minor visual changes in the plastic fibers (dulling of the surface) after being exposed to the digestive system of the cows, we were able to chemically confirm (using infrared spectroscopy) that the plastic found in the feces and mineral supplements were identical. To quantify degradation of consumed plastic particles, we performed a digestion study of plastics of similar composition (nylon used to tie square hay bales and polyethylene used to wrap round/rolled bales – not microplastics) used in the farm operations of the university. Following a 54-day exposure to the digestive system of a cannulated bull, we found that the weight of plastics did not change, but significant fragmentation (fraying) occurred. While the physiological consequences of microplastic degradation and potential inclusion among gut tissues are largely unknown, increased surface areas of microplastics from fraying and the leeching of toxic compounds accumulated over long periods of time should be considered as they could influence the safety of beef and dairy products intended for human consumption. Keywords: Livestock, Microfiber, Mineral supplement, Particle degradation, Plastic consumption.
Using beam-offset optical coherence tomography to reconstruct backscattered photon profiles in scattering media
Authors: Xu Weiming , Wang Hui
Published: October 2022

Raster scanning imaging technologies capture least scattered photons (LSPs) and reject multiple scattered photons (MSPs) in backscattered photons to image the underlying structures of a scattering medium. However, MSPs can still squeeze into the images, resulting in limited imaging depth, degraded contrast, and significantly reduced lateral resolution. Great efforts have been made to understand how MSPs affect imaging performance through modeling, but the techniques for visualizing the backscattered photon profile (BSPP) in scattering media during imaging are unavailable. Here, a method of reconstructing BSPP is demonstrated using beam-offset optical coherence tomography (OCT), in which OCT images are acquired at offset positions from the illumination beam. The separation of LSPs and MSPs based on the BSPP enables quantification of imaging depth, contrast, and lateral resolution, as well as access to the depth-resolved modulated transfer function (MTF). This approach presents great opportunities for better retrieving tissue optical properties, correctly interpreting images, or directly using MTF as the feedback for adaptive optical imaging.
Self-supervised deep-learning two-photon microscopy
Authors: He Yuezhi , Yao Jing , Liu Lina , Gao Yufeng , Yu Jia , Ye Shiwei , Li Hui , Zheng Wei
Published: October 2022

Artificial neural networks have shown great proficiency in transforming low-resolution microscopic images into high-resolution images. However, training data remains a challenge, as large-scale open-source databases of microscopic images are rare, particularly 3D data. Moreover, the long training times and the need for expensive computational resources have become a burden to the research community. We introduced a deep-learning-based self-supervised volumetric imaging approach, which we termed “Self-Vision.” The self-supervised approach requires no training data, apart from the input image itself. The lightweight network takes just minutes to train and has demonstrated resolution-enhancing power on par with or better than that of a number of recent microscopy-based models. Moreover, the high throughput power of the network enables large image inference with less postprocessing, facilitating a large field-of-view (

2.45
  
mm
×
2.45
  
mm

) using a home-built two-photon microscopy system. Self-Vision can recover images from fourfold undersampled inputs in the lateral and axial dimensions, dramatically reducing the acquisition time. Self-Vision facilitates the use of a deep neural network for 3D microscopy imaging, easing the demanding process of image acquisition and network training for current resolution-enhancing networks.
Effects of propofol and inhaled anesthetics on postoperative complications for the patients undergoing one lung ventilation: A meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Jing , Huang Qinghua , Cao Rong , Cui Yu
Published: October 2022

Introduction

With the widespread use of one-lung ventilation (OLV) in thoracic surgery, it is unclear whether maintenance anesthetics such as propofol and inhaled anesthetics are associated with postoperative complications. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of propofol and inhaled anesthetics on postoperative complications in OLV patients.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, and Cochrane Library were searched for relevant randomized controlled trials until 09/2021. All randomized controlled trials comparing the effect of propofol versus inhaled anesthetics on postoperative complications in OLV patients were included. All randomized controlled trials comparing:(a) major complications (b) postoperative pulmonary complications (c) postoperative cognitive function (MMSE score) (d) length of hospital stay (e) 30-day mortality, were included.

Results

Thirteen randomized controlled trials involving 2522 patients were included in the analysis. Overall, there was no significant difference in major postoperative complications between the inhaled anesthetic and propofol groups (OR 0.78, 95%CI 0.54 to 1.13, p = 0.19; I2 = 0%). However, more PPCs were detected in the propofol group compared to the inhalation anesthesia group (OR 0.62, 95%CI 0.44 to 0.87, p = 0.005; I2 = 37%). Both postoperative MMSE score (SMD -1.94, 95%CI -4.87 to 0.99, p = 0.19; I2 = 100%) and hospital stay (SMD 0.05, 95%CI -0.29 to 0.39, p = 0.76; I2 = 73%) were similar between the two groups. The 30-day mortality rate was also not significantly different between groups (OR 0.79, 95%CI 0.03 to 18, p = 0.88; I2 = 63%).

Conclusions

In patients undergoing OLV, general anesthesia with inhaled anesthetics reduced PPC compared to propofol, but did not provide clear benefits on other major complications, cognitive function, length of hospital stay, or mortality.
Cost of cardiovascular diseases and renal complications in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A retrospective analysis of claims database
Authors: Al-Jedai Ahmed Hamden , Almudaiheem Hajer Yousef , Alissa Dema Abdulrahman , Al-Enazy Hadi Saeed , Korayem Ghazwa B. , Alghamdi Ahlam , Alghamdi Shabab
Published: October 2022

Background

The burden of macro- and microvascular complications in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is substantial in Middle East countries. The current study assessed the healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) and costs related to cardiovascular and renal complications among patients with T2DM.

Methodology

This non-interventional, longitudinal, retrospective, cohort study collected secondary data from three insurance claims databases across Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) of patients diagnosed with T2DM. The study included adult patients aged ≥18 years diagnosed with first cardiovascular disease (CVD) during index time period and at least one T2DM claim anytime during the study time period. The primary analyses were conducted per database, stratified by three cohorts; patients with at least one claim every six months during the 1-year pre-index and 1-year post-index period (cohort 1), patients with at least one claim every six months during the 1-year pre-index, and two years post-index period (cohort 2) and patients with at least one claim every six months during the 1-year pre-index and 3-year post-index period (cohort 3). For each Payer database, demographics, CVD subgroups, HCRU, and costs were analysed. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data.

Results

The study sample comprised of 72–78% male and 22–28% female T2DM patients with CVD and renal complications. Patients in the age group of 35–65 years or above contributed to the significant disease burden. Nearly 68 to 80% of T2DM patients developed one CVD event, and 19 to 31% of patients developed multiple CVD events during the follow-up period. For most patients with comorbid CVD and renal disease, the average HCRU cost for post‑index periods was higher compared to 1-year pre-index period across the different visit types and activities.

Conclusion

The study findings elucidates the need for early initiation of therapies that would reduce the long-term cardiovascular and renal outcomes and the associated costs in patients with T2DM.
African American English speaking 2nd graders, verbal–s, and educational achievement: Event related potential and math study findings
Authors: Terry J. Michael , Thomas Erik R. , Jackson Sandra C. , Hirotani Masako
Published: October 2022

A number of influential linguistic analyses hold that African American English (AAE) has no verbal–s, the–sthat, for example, turnsdrinkintodrinksin more mainstream English varieties.On such accounts, sentences likeMary drinks coffeeare ungrammatical in AAE. Previous behavioral studies suggest that in addition to being ungrammatical, AAE speaking children find these sentences cognitively demanding, and that their presence in mathematical reasoning tests can depress scores. Until now, however, no online sentence processing study nor investigation of neurophysiological markers has been done to support these findings. Aimed at addressing this gap in the literature, the auditory ERP experiment described herein revealed two different processes associated with AAE speaking 2nd graders listening to this type of sentence: a morphosyntactic structure building problem, reflected in a bilateral early anterior-central negativity; and an increase in working memory load, indicated by a bilateral late long-lasting anterior-central negativity. Study participants also took an orally administered test of math word problems. Consistent with previous findings, results showed they answered fewer questions correctly when those questions contained verbal–sthan when they did not.
Autoantibody profile in sarcoidosis, analysis from the GRADS sarcoidosis cohort
Authors: Khassawneh Basheer , Zhu Chengsong , Barkes Briana , Vestal Brian , Shrock Sarah , Gillespie May , Pacheco Karin , Deane Kevin D. , Maier Lisa A. , Li Quan-Zhen , Hamzeh Nabeel ,   GRADS investigators
Published: October 2022

Background

Sarcoidosis, a multi-systemic granulomatous disease, is a predominantly T-cell disease but evidence for a role for humoral immunity in disease pathogenesis is growing. Utilizing samples from the Genomic Research in Alpha-1 anti-trypsin Deficiency and Sarcoidosis (GRADS) study, we examined the prevalence of autoantibodies in sarcoidosis patients with pulmonary-only and extra-pulmonary organ involvement compared to normal controls.

Study design and methods

We analyzed serum samples from sarcoidosis patients who participated in the GRADS study utilizing an autoantigen microarray platform for both IgM and IgG antibodies. The cohort included sarcoidosis patients with pulmonary-only disease (POS, n = 106), sarcoidosis patients with extra-pulmonary disease (EPS, n = 120) and a normal control cohort (NC, n = 101). Organ involvement was assessed following a standardized format across all GRADS participating centers.

Results

Sarcoidosis patients overall had increased levels of IgM and IgG autoantibodies compared to normal controls. In addition, several autoantibodies were elevated in the POS and EPS cohorts compared to the NC cohort. Differences in autoantibody levels were also noted between the POS and the EPS cohorts. When comparing organ involvement with sarcoidosis, bone, spleen and ear, nose and throat involvement had higher IgM expression than other organs.

Conclusion

Sarcoidosis patients have elevated IgM and IgG autoantibody levels compared to normal controls. In addition, individuals with pulmonary as well as additional organ involvement had higher IgM expression. Further research is needed focusing on specific organ-autoantibody pairs and role of autoantibodies in disease pathogenesis.
Automatic extraction of upper-limb kinematic activity using deep learning-based markerless tracking during deep brain stimulation implantation for Parkinson’s disease: A proof of concept study
Authors: Baker Sunderland , Tekriwal Anand , Felsen Gidon , Christensen Elijah , Hirt Lisa , Ojemann Steven G. , Kramer Daniel R. , Kern Drew S. , Thompson John A.
Published: October 2022

Optimal placement of deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy for treating movement disorders routinely relies on intraoperative motor testing for target determination. However, in current practice, motor testing relies on subjective interpretation and correlation of motor and neural information. Recent advances in computer vision could improve assessment accuracy. We describe our application of deep learning-based computer vision to conduct markerless tracking for measuring motor behaviors of patients undergoing DBS surgery for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Video recordings were acquired during intraoperative kinematic testing (N = 5 patients), as part of standard of care for accurate implantation of the DBS electrode. Kinematic data were extracted from videos post-hoc using the Python-based computer vision suite DeepLabCut. Both manual and automated (80.00% accuracy) approaches were used to extract kinematic episodes from threshold derived kinematic fluctuations. Active motor epochs were compressed by modeling upper limb deflections with a parabolic fit. A semi-supervised classification model, support vector machine (SVM), trained on the parameters defined by the parabolic fit reliably predicted movement type. Across all cases, tracking was well calibrated (i.e., reprojection pixel errors 0.016–0.041; accuracies >95%). SVM predicted classification demonstrated high accuracy (85.70%) including for two common upper limb movements, arm chain pulls (92.30%) and hand clenches (76.20%), with accuracy validated using a leave-one-out process for each patient. These results demonstrate successful capture and categorization of motor behaviors critical for assessing the optimal brain target for DBS surgery. Conventional motor testing procedures have proven informative and contributory to targeting but have largely remained subjective and inaccessible to non-Western and rural DBS centers with limited resources. This approach could automate the process and improve accuracy for neuro-motor mapping, to improve surgical targeting, optimize DBS therapy, provide accessible avenues for neuro-motor mapping and DBS implantation, and advance our understanding of the function of different brain areas.
Stability analysis with general fuzzy measure: An application to social security organizations
Authors: Arabjazi Nasim , Rostamy-Malkhalifeh Mohsen , Lotfi Farhad Hosseinzadeh , Behzadi Mohammad Hasan
Published: October 2022

An effective method for evaluating the efficiency of peer decision-making units (DMUs) is data envelope analysis (DEA). In engineering sciences and real-world management problems, uncertainty in input and output data always exists. To achieve reliable results, uncertainties must be taken into account. In this research, a General Fuzzy (GF) approach is designed to cope with uncertainty in the presence of fuzzy observations for categorizing and specifying stability radius and alterations ranges of efficient and inefficient DMUs, which is applicable to real-world decision-making problems. For this purpose, a DEA sensitivity analysis model is presented, which will be modeled by fuzzy sets. Then, by applying the General Fuzzy (GF) approach, the fuzzy DEA sensitivity analysis model is transformed into the equivalent crisp form of fuzzy chance constraints according to specific confidence levels. Finally, a numerical example and a case study of branches of the social security organization are presented to illustrate sensitivity and stability analysis in the presence of fuzzy data. The obtained results provide the input and output changes of the evaluated units according to the attitude and preference of the decision maker with different confidence levels so that the data changes in the fuzzy environment do not change the units’ classification from efficient to inefficient and vice versa.
Acceptance and hesitancy of COVID-19 vaccine among Nepalese population: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Dahal Suresh , Pokhrel Srishti , Mehta Subash , Karki Supriya , Bist Harish Chandra , Sahu Dikesh Kumar , Lageju Nimesh , Panthi Sagar , Neupane Durga , Shrestha Ashish , Bhagat Tarakant , Agrawal Santosh Kumari , Gautam Ujwal
Published: October 2022

Introduction

COVID-19 is an emerging infectious disease with a high transmission rate and substantial deaths. Various vaccines have been developed to combat it. This study is aimed to assess COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among the Nepalese population through a web-based survey.

Materials and methods

This is a web-based cross-sectional descriptive study of Nepalese people 18 years and above from different regions of Nepal who use social media (Facebook, Twitter, Reddit) as well as instant messaging applications (Messenger, Viber, WhatsApp). The duration of the study was 3 months from 1st June 2021 to 31st August 2021. The sampling technique used was self-selected non-probability sampling. A validated questionnaire had been taken to record the data.

Results

A total of 307 participants were included in the study. About three-fourths of participants 231 (75.2%) had not been vaccinated while 76 (24.8%) had been vaccinated with COVID -19 vaccine. Out of 231 non-vaccinated participants, most of participants 213 (92.2%) had shown acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine. More than two-thirds of participants believed that the vaccine would protect them, their family members, and the community from having COVID-19 in the future. Very few participants 18 (7.2%) were hesitant to receive the vaccine against COVID-19. About two-thirds of participants were being afraid of adverse effects of the COVID-19 vaccine while more than half of participants hesitated due to lack of enough information regarding COVID-19 vaccine.

Conclusion

This study can aid in the planning of vaccination campaigns and the direction of future public health efforts aimed at increasing COVID-19 vaccine uptake.
Pyrolysis-GCMS of Spirulina platensis: Evaluation of biomasses cultivated under autotrophic and mixotrophic conditions
Authors: Paula Sueilha F. A. , Chagas Bruna M. E. , Pereira Maria I. B. , Rangel Adriano H. N. , Sassi Cristiane F. C. , Borba Luiz H. F. , Santos Everaldo S. , Asevedo Estefani A. , Câmara Fabiana R. A. , Araújo Renata M.
Published: October 2022

Microalgae are autotrophs and CO2 fixers with great potential to produce biofuels in a sustainable way, however the high cost of biomass production is a challenge. Mixotrophic growth of microalgae has been presented as a great alternative to achieve economic sustainability. Thus, the present work reports the energetic characterization of S. platensis biomasses cultivated under autotrophic (A) and mixotrophic conditions using cheese whey waste at different concentrations, 2.5 (M2.5), 5.0 (M5) and 10.0% (M10), in order to analyze the potential production of valuable chemicals and bio-oil by TGA/DTG and Py-GC/MS. The biochemical compositions of the studied biomasses were different due to the influence of different culture mediums. As the whey concentration increased, there was an increase in the carbohydrate content and a decrease in the protein content, which influenced the elemental composition, calorific value, TGA and volatile compounds evaluated by Py-GC/MS at 450°C, 550°C and 650°C. Sample M10 had lower protein content and formed a smaller amount of nitrogenates compounds by pyrolysis at all temperatures evaluated. There was a reduction of 43.8% (450º), 45.6% (550ºC) and 23.8% (650ºC) in the formation of nitrogenates compounds in relation to sample A. Moreover, the temperature also showed a considerable effect in the formation of volatile compounds. The highest yields of nitrogenates compounds, phenols and aromatic and non-aromatic hydrocarbons were observed at 650ºC. The oxygenated, and N and O containing compounds decreased as the temperature increased. Hydrocarbons such as toluene, heptadecane and heneicosane were produced by S.platensis pyrolysis, which makes this biomass attractive for production of high quality bio-oil and valuable chemicals. Therefore, the results showed that it is possible to decrease the formation of nitrogen compounds via manipulation of growth conditions and temperature.
BNT162b2 against COVID-19 in Brazil using a test-negative design: Study protocol and statistical analysis plan
Authors: Goulart Rosa Regis , Spinardi Julia , Allen Kristen E. , Manfio Josélia , de Araujo Cintia Laura Pereira , Cohen Mírian , Robinson Caroline Cabral , Sganzerla Daniel , Ferreira Diogo , de Souza Emanuel Maltempi , de Oliveira Jaqueline Carvalho , Gradia Daniela Fiori , Brandalize Ana Paula Carneiro , Kucharski Gabriela Almeida , Pedrotti Fernando , Rodrigues Cristina de Oliveira , Kyaw Moe H. , Castillo Graciela del Carmen Morales , Srivastava Amit , McLaughlin John M. , Falavigna Maicon
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Real-world data on COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness are needed to validate evidence from randomized clinical trials. Accordingly, this study aims to evaluate, in a real-world setting in Brazil, the effectiveness of Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 against symptomatic COVID-19 and COVID-19-related complications across diverse populations.

Materials and methods

A test-negative case-control study with follow-up of cases is currently being conducted in Toledo, a city in southern Brazil, following a mass COVID-19 vaccination campaign with BNT162b2. The study is being conducted among patients aged 12 years or older seeking care in the public health system with acute respiratory symptoms and tested for SARS-CoV-2 on reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Cases are RT-PCR positive and controls RT-PCR negative. Test-positive cases are prospectively followed through structured telephone interviews performed at 15 days post-enrollment, and at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Baseline demographic, clinical, and vaccination data are being collected by means of structured interviews and medical registry records reviews at the time of enrollment. All RT-PCR-positive samples are screened for mutations to identify SARS-CoV-2 variants.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been approved by the research ethics committee of all participant sites. Study findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Trail registration

Clinicatrials.gov: NCT05052307.
Re-assessing the role of culture on the visual orientation perception of the rod and frame test
Authors: Willey Chéla R. , Liu Zili
Published: October 2022

In recent research of culture and ethnicity in visual perception, some researchers have found support for the hypothesis that more collectivistic cultures tend to be more influenced by surrounding contextual visual information than more individualistic cultures. This hypothesis suggests that even low-level visual perception may not be universal and has great implications on how vision research should be conducted. The current study reexamines this hypothesis in the rod and frame task, which tests the influence of a tilted contextual frame on orientation perception of the rod. We found no difference between participants of East Asian and Western European descent in this task. Despite not finding the cultural effect, we found a well-reported gender effect in which women were more influenced by the tilt of the frame than men, helping to ensure the quality of the data collected. Our results suggest that contextual influence on visual perception does not affect East Asians and white Western Europeans differently.
Trends and determinants of taking tetanus toxoid vaccine among women during last pregnancy in Bangladesh: Country representative survey from 2006 to 2019
Authors: Amin Md. Bony , Roy Nitai , Meem Amatul Elah , Hossain Ekhtear , Aktarujjaman Md
Published: October 2022

Background

Tetanus occurring during pregnancy is still an important cause of maternal and neonatal mortality in developing countries. This study estimated the trend of tetanus toxoid (TT) immunization coverage from 2006 to 2019 in Bangladesh, considering socio-demographic, socio-economic, and geospatial characteristics.

Methods

The dataset used in this study was extracted from Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (2006, 2012–13, and 2019) including 28,734 women aged between 15–49 years. Data analysis was performed using cross-tabulation and logistic regression methods. Further, the spatial distribution of TT immunization coverage was also depicted.

Results

The trend of TT immunization (81.8% in 2006 to 49.3% in 2019) and that of taking adequate doses of TT (67.1% in 2006 to 49.9% in 2019) has gradually decreased throughout the study period. Among the administrative districts, North and South-West regions had lower coverage, and South and West regions had relatively higher coverage of both TT immunization and that of adequate doses. Antenatal TT immunization (any dosage, inadequate or adequate) was significantly associated with lower age (AOR = 3.13, 1.55–6.34), higher education (AOR = 1.20, 1.03–1.40), living in urban areas (AOR = 1.17, 1.03–1.34), having immunization card (AOR = 5.19, 4.50–5.98), using government facilities for birth (AOR = 1.41, 1.06–1.88), and receiving antenatal care (ANC) (AOR = 1.51, 1.35–1.69). In addition, living in urban areas (AOR = 1.31, 1.10–1.55), having immunization cards (AOR = 1.62, 1.36–1.92), and choosing others’ homes for birth (AOR = 1.37, 1.07–1.74) were significantly associated with adequate TT immunization. However, higher education (AOR = 0.57, 0.44–0.74), having poor wealth index (AOR = 0.65, 0.50–0.83), and receiving ANC (AOR = 0.76, 0.63–0.92) had lower likelihood of taking adequate TT immunization.

Conclusions

The gradual decline in the TT immunization rate in the present study suggests the presence of variable rates and unequal access to TT immunization, demanding more effective public health programs focusing on high-risk groups to ensure adequate TT immunization.
Physicians’ awareness of oral-systemic links and its association with physician-reported patient referral to dentists
Authors: Al-Habib Fatimah , Al Abdulbaqi Fatimah , Alibrahim Hala , Alhamdan Yasmin , Nazir Muhammad Ashraf , AlHumaid Jehan
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Physicians promote oral health by screening for oral pathologies, providing emergency help, and referring patients to dentists. The literature consistently reports a robust association between periodontal disease and systemic diseases. However, it is not fully known if physicians in Saudi Arabia are aware of the oral-systemic disease links. Therefore, the study aimed to evaluate physicians’ awareness of the oral-systemic disease links and their association with patients’ referral to dentists and patients’ access to oral care.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted (June 2019-January 2020) on physicians working in private and public hospitals in the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia. The physicians (n = 333) responded to a paper-based self-administered and pilot-tested questionnaire which inquired about their awareness of oral-systemic disease links and patient referral to dentists. The reliability of items of oral-systemic disease links was evaluated by calculating Cronbach’s alpha (0.84).

Results

Most participants (92.8%) agreed/strongly agreed that oral health is associated with systemic health. Half of the sample (50.8%) referred patients to dentists during the last month. Almost 80.5% believed that more patients will be referred to the dentists because of their awareness of the oral-systemic disease links and 84% believed that more patients will access oral care services if patients were aware of the oral-systemic disease links. The participants who referred patients to the dentists during the last month (P = 0.038), believed that more patients will be referred (P = 0.001), and believed that more patients will access oral care (P = 0.003) demonstrated significantly higher oral-systemic disease links awareness score. The adjusted model showed patients’ referral to dentist (OR = 1.96.10, P = 0.006) and believing in more patients accessing oral care (OR = 2.05, P = 0.044) were associated with significantly increased awareness of the oral-systemic disease links.

Conclusion

Most physicians in the study were aware of the oral-systemic disease links. Increased awareness of the oral-systemic disease links was significantly associated with the referral of patients to dentists and belief in improved patients’ access to oral care services.
Neighbourhood-level socio-demographic characteristics and risk of COVID-19 incidence and mortality in Ontario, Canada: A population-based study
Authors: van Ingen Trevor , Brown Kevin A. , Buchan Sarah A. , Akingbola Samantha , Daneman Nick , Warren Christine M. , Smith Brendan T.
Published: October 2022

Objectives

We aimed to estimate associations between COVID-19 incidence and mortality with neighbourhood-level immigration, race, housing, and socio-economic characteristics.

Methods

We conducted a population-based study of 28,808 COVID-19 cases in the provincial reportable infectious disease surveillance systems (Public Health Case and Contact Management System) which includes all known COVID-19 infections and deaths from Ontario, Canada reported between January 23, 2020 and July 28, 2020. Residents of congregate settings, Indigenous communities living on reserves or small neighbourhoods with populations <1,000 were excluded. Comparing neighbourhoods in the 90th to the 10th percentiles of socio-demographic characteristics, we estimated the associations between 18 neighbourhood-level measures of immigration, race, housing and socio-economic characteristics and COVID-19 incidence and mortality using Poisson generalized linear mixed models.

Results

Neighbourhoods with the highest proportion of immigrants (relative risk (RR): 4.0, 95%CI:3.5–4.5) and visible minority residents (RR: 3.3, 95%CI:2.9–3.7) showed the strongest association with COVID-19 incidence in adjusted models. Among individual race groups, COVID-19 incidence was highest among neighbourhoods with the high proportions of Black (RR: 2.4, 95%CI:2.2–2.6), South Asian (RR: 1.9, 95%CI:1.8–2.1), Latin American (RR: 1.8, 95%CI:1.6–2.0) and Middle Eastern (RR: 1.2, 95%CI:1.1–1.3) residents. Neighbourhoods with the highest average household size (RR: 1.9, 95%CI:1.7–2.1), proportion of multigenerational families (RR: 1.8, 95%CI:1.7–2.0) and unsuitably crowded housing (RR: 2.1, 95%CI:2.0–2.3) were associated with COVID-19 incidence. Neighbourhoods with the highest proportion of residents with less than high school education (RR: 1.6, 95%CI:1.4–1.8), low income (RR: 1.4, 95%CI:1.2–1.5) and unaffordable housing (RR: 1.6, 95%CI:1.4–1.8) were associated with COVID-19 incidence. Similar inequities were observed across neighbourhood-level sociodemographic characteristics and COVID-19 mortality.

Conclusions

Neighbourhood-level inequities in COVID-19 incidence and mortality were observed in Ontario, with excess burden experienced in neighbourhoods with a higher proportion of immigrants, racialized populations, large households and low socio-economic status.
A positive feedback loop mediates crosstalk between calcium, cyclic nucleotide and lipid signalling in calcium-induced Toxoplasma gondii egress
Authors: Nofal Stephanie D. , Dominicus Caia , Broncel Malgorzata , Katris Nicholas J. , Flynn Helen R. , Arrizabalaga Gustavo , Botté Cyrille Y. , Invergo Brandon M. , Treeck Moritz
Published: October 2022

Fundamental processes that govern the lytic cycle of the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii are regulated by several signalling pathways. However, how these pathways are connected remains largely unknown. Here, we compare the phospho-signalling networks during Toxoplasma egress from its host cell by artificially raising cGMP or calcium levels. We show that both egress inducers trigger indistinguishable signalling responses and provide evidence for a positive feedback loop linking calcium and cyclic nucleotide signalling. Using WT and conditional knockout parasites of the non-essential calcium-dependent protein kinase 3 (CDPK3), which display a delay in calcium inonophore-mediated egress, we explore changes in phosphorylation and lipid signalling in sub-minute timecourses after inducing Ca2+ release. These studies indicate that cAMP and lipid metabolism are central to the feedback loop, which is partly dependent on CDPK3 and allows the parasite to respond faster to inducers of egress. Biochemical analysis of 4 phosphodiesterases (PDEs) identified in our phosphoproteomes establishes PDE2 as a cAMP-specific PDE which regulates Ca2+ induced egress in a CDPK3-independent manner. The other PDEs display dual hydrolytic activity and play no role in Ca2+ induced egress. In summary, we uncover a positive feedback loop that enhances signalling during egress, thereby linking several signalling pathways.
Sewing history: Consuming culture
Authors: Hackett Lisa J.
Published: October 2022

The resurgence of home-sewing has led to renewed academic interest in the area. Current research has found that home-sewing is a substitute for purchasing ill-fitting, poor-quality and unsustainable fast fashion. Home-sewers report that they find the practice a creative leisure activity and that home-sewing is an empowering activity. What has been less examined are reasons why sewers make historical clothing, as opposed to making modern designs. This article examines home-sewing via the lens of historical material culture. That is, is seeks to understand the reasons why people sew and wear anachronistic clothing. It does so via an international survey of over 200 participants. A range of complex social and historical factors emerge in this research, which posit that there exist broad cultural phenomena to explain this contemporary trend. Of the recent research conducted into the reasons and motivations of home-sewers, the focus is on the sewing of contemporary clothing. Conversely, this research examines the motivations for sewing and wearing anachronistic clothing. Leading home dressmaking pattern company Simplicity claims that for many home-sewers it is vintage patterns that lead them to undertake home-sewing. This suggests that there are different types of home dressmakers who are motivated by considerations beyond that uncovered by previous research.
Analgesics in rheumatic diseases – a necessary component of therapy aimed at improving the quality of life
Authors: Karateev A. E.
Published: October 2022

Control of chronic pain is one of the main elements of the complex therapy of rheumatic diseases (RD). The use of analgesics is of fundamental importance for the management of patients with osteoarthritis (OA), since a unified system of pathogenetic therapy has not yet been developed for this disease. In immunoinflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRDs), such as rheumatoid arthritis, effective pathogenetic therapy can successfully control inflammatory activity. However, in many cases, in patients with IRDs, unpleasant symptoms (pain, fatigue, poor general well-being, etc.) persist even during remission and low inflammatory activity. This is associated with persistent structural changes, “secondary” OA, central sensitization, and concomitant fibromyalgia. Therefore, approximately 50% of patients with IRDs receiving modern pathogenetic therapy require additional use of analgesics. Therapy for musculoskeletal pain in RD should be complex, include drugs with different mechanisms of action and non-drug methods. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the first line therapy, they have good analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential. The choice of a specific NSAID should be based on an individual assessment of the clinical situation and the presence of risk factors for possible complications. Among NSAIDs, aceclofenac should be singled out – an effective drug with a favorable safety profile, which is confirmed by a large number of clinical studies and real clinical practice.