bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of LncRNA H19 on Human Dental Pulp Cells Through Tumor Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad Signaling Pathway
Authors: Huang Li , Sun Chuankong , Peng Ruobing , Liu Zhiming
Published: March 2022

The pulp tissue is located in the pulp cavity of tooth and has the ability of nutrition, feeling, and defense. Human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) are the main cells of pulp with the ability to self-renew and multi-directional differentiation. LncRNA H19 is involved in the regulation of
human dental pulp stem cells, but the specific mechanism has not been elucidated. hDPCs were isolated and cultured in vitro to measure vimentin expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC). hDPCs were randomly assigned into control group, negative control (NC) group and lncRNA H19 overexpression
group followed by measuring lncRNA H19, DSPP, and DMP-1 mRNA expression, cell proliferation, ALP activity, BMP-2 expression by ELISA, TGF-β1, Smad2, and Smad4 expression by Western blot. hDPCs were positive for vimentin staining and confirmed to be derived from mesenchymal. Transfection
of pcDNA3.1-LncRNA H19 plasmid significantly increased LncRNA H19 expression, promoted cell proliferation, enhanced ALP activity, upregulated DSPP and DMP-1, elevated BMP-2 expression in cell supernatant, as well as promoted TGF-β1, Smad2, and Smad4 expressions compared with control
(P < 0.05). In conclusion, lncRNA H19 facilitates hDPCs differentiation into odontoblasts by promoting cell proliferation and increasing BMP-2 secretion via regulating TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.
Estrogen Facilitates the Healing of Diabetic Wounds via Ameliorating the Function of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Jiang Yan , Luo Heng , Zhao Zhengke , Feng Lei
Published: March 2022

We inted to elucidate the impacts of estrogen on the bone marrow-originated endothelial progenitor cells (BM-EPC) and mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) as well as on diabetic wound healing. The skin injury models were established using the diabetic mice (db+/db+) and non-diabetic vector
mice and then treated with estrogen-based or placebo-based cream. On the 5th day following injury, BM cells were collected for quantification of EPCs and MSCs and colony-forming units along with analysis of wound healing rate and densities of blood vessels and scars following whole-body perfusion.
EPCs were identified through staining of VEGFR1 and CD34 by immunohistochemistrical analyses. In contrast to placebo, treatment with estrogen significantly intensified the colony formation of EPC and MSC, and further promoted the viability and proliferation potential of cells. Meanwhile, estrogen-treated
mice exhibited increased recruitment of EPC to the diabetic wounds along with increased vascular density. Additionally, on day 6 after injury, estrogen significantly accelerated wound healing, which was mediated by the enhanced collagen deposition through boosting MSC activation and differentiation,
resulting in elevated scar density. In conclusion, estrogen prompts wound healing of diabetic mice via ameliorating the function of BM-derived EPC and MSC, so as to accelerate the neovascularization at the sites of wounds in diabetic mice.
Keep it Simple, Laboratory Parameters to Predict Complicated Acute Appendicitis in Children Younger Than Five Years
Authors: Hazan Danny , Goldstein Adam Lee , Keidar Sergey , Dayan Katia , Shimonov Mordechai
Published: March 2022

Background

The clinical presentation of acute appendicitis in the youngest age lacks specific signs and symptoms, and it is difficult to obtain an accurate clinical diagnosis. Once the diagnosis is made, it is necessary to determine if the appendicitis is simple and able to be managed non-surgically, or complicated, therefore requiring surgery. Together with the clinical picture and imaging, routine laboratory values play a vital role in this decision. The aim of this study is to evaluate routine blood in their ability to differentiate between complicated and uncomplicated acute appendicitis.

Method

A retrospective analysis was conducted from a single pediatric surgery department of all children 5 years of age or younger who underwent surgery for acute appendicitis between the years 2010-2020.

Results

728 children were diagnosed with acute appendicitis, and 42 children were under the age of 5 years. There was a significant difference in the C-reactive protein, white blood cell count, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, and platelet/lymphocyte ratio in the complicated group versus the uncomplicated group. The value of these together for prediction complicated appendicitis were 84.8% sensitivity, 80.9% specificity, 82.8% positive predictive value, and 72.8% negative predictive value. These values were all higher than both the Alvarado score and the PAS ( P  <  .05).

Conclusions

C-reactive protein, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, and platelet/lymphocyte ratio are simple laboratory parameters that can help identify complicated versus uncomplicated appendicitis in children 5 years old or younger. These universal parameters may help guide the treatment and decision to operate on a difficult to diagnose population.
Quality of Public Services in the Era of Guaranteed Public Service Delivery
Authors: Pareek Urvashi , Sole Nagendra Ambedkar
Published: March 2022

The provision of public services is one of the important functions performed by a government as it ensures the growth of a nation and promotes welfare and justice in society. Public services are characterised by timeliness, quality and grievance redressal in the course of service delivery. Quality is an important component of public service delivery and determines citizens’ satisfaction and trust in the government. The debates on governance during the 1990s were focused on service delivery as the most important component in the governance process. Public services were seen as a medium for interaction between the citizens and the government through street-level agents of the state to promote the welfare and wellbeing of the people. Developments like the Citizen’s Charter formulation and implementation, social audit, e-Governance programme, Public Service Guarantee Act, and so on have shaped the governance discourse in India.

This essay highlights the significance of quality in public service delivery in India, its need the quality-satisfaction-trust triad, barriers to quality in public service delivery, tools to ensure the quality of public services in India and international best practices.
The formation of the eucharistic prayer in the Apostolic Tradition
Authors: Bradshaw Paul F.
Published: March 2022

What was thought to be a third-century eucharistic prayer from Rome exercised great influence on twentieth-century liturgical revision, but recent scholarship shows that in its finished form it belongs to West Syria, and its roots are even older, in the second century.
Variations in mortality in Medicare recipients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Agbafe Victor , Fugett James , Gall Ashley , Dhamija Ankit , Asad Fatima , Abbas Kamil , Hayanga Jeremiah A
Published: March 2022

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a rescue modality against severe cardiac and pulmonary compromise. We sought to assess variation in mortality and associated environmental and infrastructural predictors among Medicare beneficiaries on ECMO.

Methods

We used Medicare claims data to evaluate hospitalizations between 2017 and 2019 during which beneficiaries required ECMO. The primary outcome of interest was mortality. We evaluated the influence on mortality of Medicare Case Mix Index (CMI), Medicare Wage Index, hospital size, ECMO cannulations, cardiology volume, region, and gender and modeled necessity and sufficiency relations involving ECMO volume, hospital size, cardiology volume, US region, and the mortality index through qualitative comparative analysis (QCA).

Results

5368 ECMO cases were performed at 306 hospitals. Compared to institutions with a mortality index equal to or below 2, those above this threshold had statistically significant higher number of beds, cardiology volumes, and lower survival percentages ( p < 0.05). Moreover, we observed a smaller proportion of institutions with an ECMO volume < 20 (78.3% vs 63.4%), which had mortality index > 2. The QCA analysis indicated that low cardiology volume and central/east location are necessary but not sufficient conditions for a mortality index above 2.

Conclusion

Trends in mortality are influenced by prevailing socioeconomic, utilization, infrastructural characteristics, and volume. As such, ECMO mortality may be more accurately predicted by models that account for more factors than clinical parameters alone.
Reoperation rate of ductal carcinoma in situ: impact of tomosynthesis (3D) and spot magnification
Authors: Arlan Kirill , Meretoja Tuomo J , Hukkinen Katja
Published: March 2022

Background

Surgical planning depends on precise preoperative assessment of the radiological extent of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Despite different modalities used, reoperation rates for DCIS due to involved margins are high.

Purpose

To evaluate the impact of additional imaging views (spot magnification, tomosynthesis) on surgical reoperation rate of DCIS.

Material and Methods

The retrospective single institute study includes 157 patients with biopsy-proven pure DCIS seen on mammogram as microcalcifications and treated with breast-conserving surgery. Patients have been divided into three groups according to additional imaging performed: spot magnification, tomosynthesis, and none. All breast images (mammograms, spot magnification, tomosynthesis) were reviewed and the maximum extent of pathological microcalcifications was recorded. Radiological size was compared to final histopathological size. Reoperation rate due to inadequate margins was recorded.

Results

Reoperation rates (25%) due to inadequate margins were as follows: spot (18%), tomosynthesis (27%), none (31%); P = 0.488. Spot magnification, tomosynthesis, and digital zoom of full-field digital mammography predicted similarly the final histopathological size. Reoperation group had a significantly greater preoperative radiological median size (26 mm vs. 20 mm; P = 0.014) as well as median size of disease on final histopathological report (29 mm vs. 14 mm; P < 0.001). Discrepancy between radiological and final histopathological size became greater with increasing DCIS extent.

Conclusion

The main factors for reoperations are DCIS size and discordance between radiological and histopathological sizes. The use of additional imaging views (spot magnification, tomosynthesis) did not reduce reoperation rate.
Intrathyroidal Bronchogenic Cysts: A report of two cases
Authors: Gui Zhengwei , Cai Tao , Tian Yao , Liu Shiyang , Zhang Lin
Published: March 2022

Bronchogenic cysts are rare congenital anomalies arising from an abnormal budding of the primitive foregut or tracheobronchial tree. They are most commonly identified in the mediastinum though they can be found in the lung. Ectopic bronchogenic cysts are uncommon in clinical practice, and even rarer when located in the thyroid gland. We report here two cases of intrathyroidal bronchogenic cysts and discuss the patients’ outcomes.
Damping behaviour and self-healing performance evaluation of microcapsules reinforced epoxy composites by impulse excitation technique
Authors: Pittala Raj Kumar , Dhanaraju Goteti , Beera Satish Ben , Beera Avinash Ben
Published: March 2022

Micro cracks developed in the composite structures can be repaired autonomously by incorporating microcapsules-based self-healing approach into the composites. In the current study, in order to employ self-healing composites in different structural applications, damping behaviour and self-healing performance of the composites were evaluated. CY230 epoxy and HY951 hardener were chosen as two different self-healing agents and encapsulated in polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) shell material. Dual microcapsules reinforced carbon fibre epoxy composites were fabricated by employing 15wt% of microcapsules at 1:1 weight ratio and 0.5:0.5 weight fractions of matrix reinforcement. Influence of microcapsules addition and induced damages on the damping behaviour and self-healing performance of the pure epoxy and pure carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites were investigated by impulse excitation technique (IET). It was noticed that with the addition of respective optimized 7.5 wt%, 15 wt% microcapsules to pure epoxy and pure CFRP, damping factor of both the composites increased whereas elastic modulus decreased. Compared to capsules reinforced virgin composites, damping factor of damaged composites was higher in both types of composites. Self-healing efficiency of capsules reinforced pure epoxy and carbon fibre epoxy composites were calculated based on the recovery in stiffness of the composites and noticed respective healing efficiencies of 72.05% and 53.72% at optimized healing conditions and microcapsules concentration.
Promotion of dermal tissue engineering in a rat model using a composite 3D-printed scaffold with electrospun nanofibers and recipient-site preconditioning with an external volume expansion device
Authors: Choi Hae Woon , Hong Jamin , Kim Junhyung , Jeong Woonhyeok , Jo Taehee , Lee Hyoun Wook , Park Sang Woo , Choi Jaehoon
Published: March 2022

We hypothesized that use of a composite three-dimensionally (3D) printed scaffold with electrospun nanofibers in conjunction with recipient-site preconditioning with an external volume expansion (EVE) device would enable successful dermal tissue regeneration of a synthetic polymer scaffold. Cell viability, cell infiltration, extracellular matrix deposition, scaffold contraction, and mRNA expression by dermal fibroblasts cultured on three different scaffolds, namely, 3D-printed scaffold with a collagen coating, 3D-printed scaffold with an electrospun polycaprolactone nanofiber and collagen coating, and 3D-printed scaffold with an electrospun polycaprolactone/collagen nanofiber, were measured. Before scaffold implantation, rats were treated for 2 h with an EVE device to evaluate the effect of this device on the recipient site. Cell proliferation rates were significantly higher on the 3D-printed scaffold with electrospun polycaprolactone nanofiber and collagen coating than on the other scaffolds. In cell invasion studies, the 3D-printed scaffold with electrospun polycaprolactone nanofiber and collagen coating showed better cell integration than the other scaffolds. Under stereomicroscopy, fibroblasts adhered tightly to the electrospun area, and the fibroblasts effectively produced both collagen and elastin. Rat skin treated with an EVE device exhibited increased HIF-1α protein expression and capillary neoformation compared with control skin. Invasion of CD8+ cytotoxic lymphocytes surrounding the scaffold decreased when the recipient site was preconditioned with the EVE device. The composite 3D printed scaffold with electrospun nanofibers provided a favorable environment for proliferation, migration, and extracellular matrix synthesis by fibroblasts. Recipient-site preconditioning with an EVE device allowed for scaffold incorporation with less inflammation due to improved angiogenesis.
“He’s Agonal”: An Insider’s Look into the Impact of Moral Injury Suffered While Policing on the Westside of Chicago
Authors: Burke Patrick J.
Published: March 2022

In this study, I seek to contribute to the literature on self-change and moral injury by providing an autoethnographic account of the processes through which I incurred “moral injury” while giving first aid to gunshot victims as a police officer on the Westside of Chicago. In particular, I aim to address the causes and consequences of failing to find a new identity that would allow me to adjust to repeated trauma. The second aim focuses on illustrating why many police officers working in extremely violent neighborhoods tend to disassociate from victims and potential victims. The analysis of the narratives I present on providing first aid to shooting victims shows that my religiously based moral norms were particularly transgressed by several key mechanisms. In the conclusion, I discuss how future research on moral injury can benefit from incorporating the theory of self-change. I also encourage future research on moral injury to focus on police officers working in extremely violent neighborhoods and consider using autoethnographic methods to pursue such research.
Esoterica Iudaica Antiqua: Some reflections
Authors: Stone Michael E
Published: March 2022

In this paper, I seek to isolate and seek out criteria for understanding the social functioning of esotericism in the period of the Second Temple. In addition to clarifying what is meant by “esoteric,” several other terms are considered: mystery and secret being the chief among them. The understanding of the terminology in studies of Western esotericism is investigated from a comparative perspective. The outcome of this research is then confronted with some esoteric groups of the Second Temple Period such as Therapeutai and Essenes. For the Essenes, the advantage of having both insider and outsider reports of their activity is stressed.
Views of Nurses, Obstetricians, and Mothers Regarding Independent Nurse-Midwifery Practitioner: A Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Yadav Raksha , Jelly Prasuna , Sharma Suresh K. , Sharma Rakesh
Published: March 2022

Background:

The maternal and neonatal health indicators in India are not getting better despite various national schemes and interventional programs. The main reason is nonaccess to the primary care services by the people at the grass-root level, mainly due to lack of trained health-care resources.

Objective:

Therefore, this study aimed to explore the perception, scope of practice, and perceived barriers of independent nurse midwifery practitioner (INMP) among nurses, obstetricians, and postnatal mothers.

Materials and Methods:

A convergent parallel, mixed-method design was used in this study. Quantitative data were collected by using a self-structured, 5-point Likert scale to assess perception and perceived barriers; and a structured opinionnaire to explore the perceived scope of practice of INMP from 260 nurses, obstetricians, and mothers. A semi-structured interview was conducted for qualitative data from 48 study participants. Quantitative data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics (Kruskal Wallis test), and RQDA software was used for qualitative data analysis.

Results:

The results show that the participants have favorable perceptions about INMP. The majority believed that INMPs could do most of the tasks as per recommendations about their scope of practice with few limitations. Though, there might be collaboration issues and role conflicts between obstetricians and INMPs initially. Participants also identified various ways to overcome the barriers for INMP.

Conclusion:

This study revealed that there is a dire need for INMPs in developing countries like India. Overall, participants felt that INMPs would be successful to practice in India if the government comes up with such cadre in the future.
Caregiver Distress in Home Palliative Care
Authors: Mercadante Sebastiano , Piccione Tania , Spinnato Francesca , Scordi Maria Concetta , Perricone Concetta , Pumilia Ughetta , Casuccio Alessandra
Published: March 2022

Aim: This study aims to determine the symptom burden of caregivers who were following their loved ones at home and factors associated with this burden. Methods: From a consecutive number of patients followed at home by a specialistic palliative care team, a sample of 46 couples of patients-caregivers was screened. Epidemiological data of both patients and caregivers were collected, also including some variables, such as the level of religiousness, education, economic conditions, and financial distress. The Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) was measured in both patients and caregivers. Caregivers were asked to provide a comment in a semi-structured interview, about “what do you think of your loved one’s suffering?” They were also invited to release any further comment. Results: Caregivers’ symptom burden was relevant. Sleep disturbances were even more relevant in caregivers. Caregivers with a lower level of education and financial distress experienced more global symptom burden. Caregivers manifested a deep sense of injustice and gripes regarding previous hospitalizations. Conclusion: There is an association between patient-reported severity of symptoms and caregiver symptoms. These data suggest delivering support to those caregivers who express higher levels of symptoms. There is a need for further research to explore the possible interventions to mitigate caregivers’ symptom burden.
Enablers and barriers for successful completion of study identified by Māori students on a postgraduate programme for in-service teachers
Authors: Thorn Rochelle , Komene Te Mihinga , Roberts Justin , Parsons David
Published: March 2022

This article reports on a study that was undertaken into enablers and barriers to Māori student success on a postgraduate programme for in-service teachers. The study was led by Māori researchers and followed a Kaupapa Māori research philosophy—research by Māori, for Māori, and with Māori. Data were gathered via a series of hui (meetings) to which former students were invited, including both those who had completed the programme and those who had not. Thematic analysis was applied to student voice from the hui to identify the key themes that emerged, describing the student experience in terms of what impacted on their progress throughout the programme. The data revealed several areas where the tertiary institution could change its processes and practices to improve outcomes for Māori students. The article concludes by outlining some specific areas where the institution has already implemented changes in response to this study.
Tattoo my mouth: Samoan language survival in Australia
Authors: Enari Dion , Taula Lorayma
Published: March 2022

Indigenous people experience their worlds simultaneously through and because of language itself. To examine the relationship between language and place, we evaluate the current discourse and state of gagana Sāmoa (Samoan language) in Australia. As Samoan researchers, we situate ourselves accordingly by drawing on our language accounts and those of others in the diaspora. By focusing on these talanoaga—stories, sharing, and discussions across Queensland and Victoria, Australia, the role and value of gagana Sāmoa is reinforced through maintaining, developing and ensuring its survival for present and future generations. In this article, language survival is framed in how (re)connection is mobilised and articulated among this community. Our article shows the value this cohort place on their language, and the need for it to be sustained and passed on to the next generation.
Colchicine May Interfere With the Efficacy of the Adenoviral Vector–Based Vaccine for COVID-19
Authors: Lin Cheng-Wei
Published: March 2022

Under the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, vaccines have become the crucial players to reduce the spread of the infection. Among them, the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine is an adenoviral vector vaccine with an overall efficacy of 70.4% in protection. The engineered adenovirus contains the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein gene and pushes its DNA into the vaccinated cell’s nucleus and subsequently, the spike protein can be made. During vaccination, the genome transition of adenovirus is influenced by the architecture and dynamics of the microtubule. Colchicine can alter microtubule dynamics by suppressing microtubule dynamics at lower concentrations and inducing depolymerization of microtubules at higher concentrations. Accordingly, the delivery of the genome to the vaccinated cell’s nucleus by the adenoviral vector could be hindered under the presence of colchicine. Nevertheless, colchicine is a common medication for gout therapy worldwide, and though not recommended by guidelines, colchicine has even been taken into consideration as a possible therapeutic option for COVID-19 infection. Given the above reasons and the worldwide use of colchicine, the impact of colchicine on the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine via adenoviral vector should be viewed cautiously.
Effect of Prophylactic Dose of Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole on Serum Creatinine in Japanese Patients With Connective Tissue Diseases
Authors: Kawato Rui , Rokutanda Ryo , Okada Masato , Matsushita Masakazu , Yamaji Ken , Tamura Naoto
Published: March 2022

Objectives:

At normal doses of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX), trimethoprim inhibits tubular creatinine secretion, leading to a rapid but reversible increase in serum creatinine (SCr). Although patients with connective tissue diseases are often in the state of immunosuppression and TMP/SMX is an important prophylactic drug, clinicians often have to stop or reduce the dosage due to concerns regarding its effect on renal function. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a prophylactic dose of TMP/SMX on SCr in Japanese patients with connective tissue diseases, the extent of SCr level elevation and the independent risk factors for creatinine elevation.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken. Participants included patients with connective tissue diseases who were treated with a prophylactic dose of TMP/SMX between 2004 and 2018. Using single and multiple regression analyses, the risk factors that affected SCr elevation were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 262 patients, females, n = 181; age, median (range) = 59 (19-89) years, were included. The median baseline SCr level before treatment was 0.62 (0.16-2.1) mg/dL. The median SCr elevation value was 0.07 (−0.54 to 0.84) mg/dL in 4 weeks after TMP/SMX initiation. Five (2%) participants had ⩾0.3 mg/dL SCr elevation. Multiple regression analyses, including age, baseline SCr, diuretic use, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use and diabetes mellitus, indicated that baseline SCr and advanced age were independent risk factors of SCr elevation.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrated that baseline SCr and advanced age were associated with SCr elevation by a prophylactic dose of TMP/SMX. However, a prophylactic dose of TMP/SMX rarely elevated the SCr level significantly. Therefore, other causes can be considered if patients show an SCr elevation ⩾0.3 mg/dL.
Exploring the Process of Transformative Learning in Executive Coaching
Authors: Mbokota Dr Gloria , Myres Prof Kerrin , Stout-Rostron Dr Sunny
Published: March 2022

Problem

The important role played by executive coaching in the development of leaders is well established in the literature. While some scholars suggest that executive coaching fosters transformative learning (TL), there is insufficient empirical evidence to support this.

Solution

This study set out to investigate the process of TL in executive coaching from the coachee’s perspective. A longitudinal multiple case study was adopted to examine how three key transformative learning elements—disorienting dilemma, critical reflection, and rational dialogue—occurred in an executive coaching engagement and the learning outcomes that emerged. A key finding was that, in addition to the three accepted elements, there is a fourth element (acceptance) that precedes the rational dialogue. The results of this study informed the development of a transformative learning model, which could guide future research, theory, and practice in the field of human resource development (HRD).

Stakeholders

The study will benefit scholars and practitioners in the fields of human resource development, executive coaching and leadership development.
Differences in Hospitals’ Workplace Violence Incident Reporting Practices: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Odes Rachel , Chapman Susan , Ackerman Sara , Harrison Robert , Hong OiSaeng
Published: March 2022

Workplace violence (WV) is a significant and growing problem for health care workers. Increased recognition of the need for improved protections has led to policy initiatives at the state and federal levels, including national Joint Commission requirements that went into effect January 2022. California’s WV prevention legislation was phased in during 2017-2018 and requires hospitals to use a new incident reporting system, the Workplace Violent Incident Reporting System (WVIRS) for Hospitals. We analyzed WVIRS data collected during the first three years of its implementation, July 1, 2017 – June 30, 2020. In addition, we collected qualitative data from six California hospitals/hospital systems during 2019-2020 to better understand reporting practices. Over the three-year period, the 413 hospitals using the WVIRS reported between zero and six incidents per staffed bed. Sixteen hospitals (3.9%) reported two or more incidents per staffed bed while the rest reported fewer than two incidents. Qualitative analysis identified that reporting procedures vary considerably among hospitals. Several organizations rely on workers to complete incident reports electronically while others assign managers or security personnel to data collection. Some hospitals appear to report only those incidents involving physical harm to the worker. Regulatory guidance for reporting practices and hospitals’ commitment to thorough data collection may improve consistency. As hospitals throughout the U.S. consider practice changes to comply with new WV standards, those engaged in implementation efforts should look closely at reporting practices. Greater consistency in reporting across facilities can help to build evidence for best practices and lead to safety improvements.
Soft news in soft war: Maximum pressure, Voice of America, and outrage media in Iran
Authors: Modjtahedi Gilda , Szpunar Piotr M.
Published: March 2022

The US Maximum Pressure campaign, a conglomeration of diplomatic, economic, and military sticks, was ostensibly designed to force Iran into renegotiating the 2015 nuclear deal; critics say the real aim is regime change. The auxiliary media efforts in support of the policy are part of an ongoing soft war. One dimension of these efforts is the export of a popular American media format, the outrage genre or cable news magazine, to Iran via Voice of America. Last Page (safhe-ye akhar) is an attempt, like much international propaganda, to reinforce rather than change opinions. This paper examines how the program attempts to reinforce anti-regime sentiment not by informing its audience but by providing a space of mediated belonging in which the host ‘gets you,’ feels the news with you, and feels for you. The paper concludes with a discussion about the potential uses and limitations of outrage media in international propaganda.
Making the leap: From experimental psychopathology to clinical trials
Authors: Blackwell Simon E , Woud Marcella L
Published: March 2022

One important aim of experimental psychopathology research is to inform development of new interventions derived from basic science. However, testing whether a newly developed intervention is in fact effective requires moving from experimental studies to clinical trials, and this transition can pose many problems. These problems stem not only from the inherent complexity of even the simplest clinical trial but also from differences between experimental psychopathology and clinical trial research that may not always be obvious to researchers immersed in only one of these specialist areas. In this paper, we explore some of these complexities and discuss when a clinical trial may, or may not, be the best next step in the translational process. We then consider some of the ins and outs of clinical trials methodology, from design and planning through to reporting, with the aim of providing a guide for experimental psychopathology researchers thinking of making the leap from their experimental studies of mechanisms to clinical trials of novel interventions. We hope that this can help increase the chance of successful clinical translation and novel treatment development from basic science.
Cesarean section rate and outcomes during and before the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Eleje George Uchenna , Ugwu Emmanuel Onyebuchi , Enebe Joseph Tochukwu , Okoro Chukwuemeka Chukwubuikem , Okpala Boniface Chukwuneme , Ezeora Nnanyelugo Chima , Iloghalu Emeka Ifeanyi , Anikwe Chidebe Christian , Okafor Chigozie Geoffrey , Agu Polycarp Uchenna , Igbodike Emeka Philip , Ake Iffiyeosuo Dennis , Ekwuazi Kingsley Emeka , Onwuegbuna Arinze Anthony , Umeononihu Osita Samuel , Anaedu Onyedika Promise , Ikwuka David Chibuike , Nwaolisa Henry Ifeanyi , Njoku Chukwuemeka Chidindu , Nwankwo Chidinma Patricia , Emeka Ekene Agatha , Eleje Lydia Ijeoma , Adinnu Kenechi Miracle , Okoye Chinelo Onuegbuna , Ugwu Angela Ogechukwu , Nwachukwu Ethel Oluchukwu , Mba Sunday Gabriel , Ezenkwele Eziamaka Pauline , Okoye Uchenna Elizabeth , Ofiaeli Chika Ifeoma , Ikpeze Golibe Christian , Onah Livinus Nnanyere , Ikpeze Odigonma Zinobia , Ejikeme Toochukwu Benjamin , Udigwe Gerald Okanandu , Ikechebelu Joseph Ifeanyichukwu
Published: March 2022

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to assess how the current COVID-19 pandemic has affected cesarean section (C-section) rates, indications, and peripartum outcomes.

Methods:

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study that compared a 3-month rates of and indications for C-sections at three tertiary health care institutions in Nigeria before (October 2019–December 2019) and during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020–May 2020). Primary outcomes were C-section rate and indications between the two periods. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 IBM Corporation. Rates and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used to quantify indications and peripartum outcomes and statistical significance was accepted when p value was <0.05.

Results:

The baseline characteristics of the two groups were similar. The C-section rate during the COVID-19 period was significantly less than the period prior to the pandemic (237/580, 40.0% vs 390/833, 46.8%; p = 0.027). The rates of postdatism (odds ratio = 1.47, 95% confidence interval = 1.05–2.05, p = 0.022), fetal distress (odds ratio = 3.06, 95% confidence interval = 1.55–6.06, p = 0.017), emergency C-section (odds ratio = 1.43, 95% confidence interval = 1.01–2.05, p = 0.042), and anemia (odds ratio = 1.84, 95% confidence interval = 1.12–3.03, p = 0.016) were significantly higher during the pandemic than prepandemic.

Conclusion:

The overall C-section rate during the first wave of COVID-19 was significantly lower than the prepandemic period. There were higher rates of postdatism, fetal distress, emergency C-section, and postpartum anemia. Further studies on this changing C-section trend during the pandemic are needed.
Binge Watching and the Role of Social Media Virality towards promoting Netflix’s Squid Game
Authors: Ahmed Wasim , Fenton Alex , Hardey Mariann , Das Ronnie
Published: March 2022

The management literature has extensively studied viral marketing in the last decade; however, there is a lack of research in understanding network structures and the role of influencers within popular cultural consumption, such as on-demand digital media and binge-watching. In this article, we investigate the role of social media in popularising the East Asian dystopian cultural drama Squid Game. We studied this phenomenon by analysing social network structures, dynamics and influencer characteristics that transformed Squid Game into a popular global digital cultural consumption sensation. Stemming from the foundational theories of popular culture binge-watching, network theory and the social media echo chamber effect, we demonstrate how careful ‘seeding’ and ‘broadcasting’ behaviour adopted by Netflix and key influencers helped the ‘reciprocal merging’ of creative media content within the broader social media space. Our study found that 13,727 Twitter users were tweeting or mentioned on the day show was released. Our research findings further present the characteristic of individual group-based echo chambers and their role in value co-creation towards expanding the network boundary through e-WOM. This phenomenon led to the show’s unprecedented popularity amongst a global audience within a short period. Contributions of our work expand viral marketing and echo-chamber concepts into the binge-watching and popular digital culture realm, where the interplay between dramatized Asian and Western dystopian social norms provided the very fabric of user-led promotion and value co-creation.
Historic Legacy of Untouchability and Caste Enslavement: A Case of Reparative Justice
Authors: Thorat Amit , Aquil Mohammad
Published: March 2022

The historic legacy of being treated as untouchables and as caste-enslaved is seen to manifest itself in the present, when one observes the development indicators for the Scheduled Caste that seems to improve ever so slowly, without ever reaching the national average or at par with the best. An acknowledgement and assessment of these historic injustices and an understanding that their down the stream implications continue to create disadvantage and the perpetuation of a developmental gap for the scheduled population is essential for correcting historic wrongs and charting a meaningful future growth trajectory.
Quantitative assessment of retinal fluid in neovascular age-related macular degeneration under anti-VEGF therapy
Authors: Reiter Gregor S. , Schmidt-Erfurth Ursula
Published: March 2022

The retinal world has been revolutionized by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy. The numbers of intravitreal injections are on a constant rise and management in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is mainly driven by the qualitative assessment of macular fluid as detected on OCT scans. The presence of macular fluid, particularly subretinal fluid (SRF) and intraretinal fluid (IRF), has been used to trigger re-treatments in clinical trials and the real world. However, large discrepancies can be found between the evaluations of different readers or experts and especially small amounts of macular fluid might be missed during this process. Pixel-wise detection of macular fluid uses an entire OCT volume to calculate exact volumes of retinal fluid. While manual annotations of such pixel-wise fluid detection are unfeasible in a clinical setting, artificial intelligence (AI) is able to overcome this hurdle by providing real-time results of macular fluid in different retinal compartments. Quantitative fluid assessments have been used for various post hoc analyses of randomized controlled trials, providing novel insights into anti-VEGF treatment regimens. Nonetheless, the application of AI-algorithms in a prospective patient care setting is still limited. In this review, we discuss the use of quantitative fluid assessment in nAMD during anti-VEGF therapy and provide an outlook to novel forms of patient care with the support of AI quantifications.
Aged Return Migrants and the Challenges of Reintegration in Rural Nigeria: Implications for Social Work Practice
Authors: Odii Aloysius , Atama Chiemezie S. , Agbawodikeizu Uju Patricia , Igwe Ijeoma
Published: March 2022

This study examined the reintegration challenges encountered by aged migrants who returned from urban to rural areas in Enugu, Southeastern Nigeria. Qualitative research method and the phenomenological approach was used. In-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with 20 aged returnees, and the data was analysed thematically. Findings revealed that the participants returned from six major cities in Nigeria and had spent an average of 25 years in their host communities before the decision to return. They returned because they could no longer cope with the city life. Health challenges, low economic base and poor infrastructure in rural areas made adjusting to life difficult and was compounded by high expectations and poor treatment from community members. However, aged returnees who coped better with these challenges were those who had access to informal care and financial support. While informal care is acknowledged as an important coping mechanism, social workers could provide enduring support to help aged returnees cope better. The study recommends that social workers create robust community-based supports such as localised skill acquisition, education, counselling, connections with institutions and community resources, and advocacy to help aged returnees adjust to rural life. Programmes that bridge the gap between the youth and the returnees may be instituted to improving cross-generation learning and understanding. These findings may be useful to other countries in similar contexts.
The Ethics of Commission in Fundraising: A Defence
Authors: Hanson Craig
Published: March 2022

A long-standing moral injunction in fundraising is that the fundraiser should not be compensated via commission. But this rule, while well intended, tends to disadvantage small not-for-profits. This article defends the ethics of commission in fundraising, especially proposal writing, and proposes a model for compensation via commission, which is no more objectionable than other remunerative methods. The arguments developed in the article raise further questions about approaches to mobilising funds for not-for-profit and non-governmental organisations.
Wild-type Caenorhabditis elegans isolates exhibit distinct gene expression profiles in response to microbial infection
Authors: Lansdon Patrick , Carlson Maci , Ackley Brian D.
Published: March 2022

The soil-dwelling nematode Caenorhabditis elegans serves as a model system to study innate immunity against microbial pathogens. C. elegans have been collected from around the world, where they, presumably, adapted to regional microbial ecologies. Here we use survival assays and RNA-sequencing to better understand how two isolates from disparate climates respond to pathogenic bacteria. We found that, relative to N2 (originally isolated in Bristol, UK), CB4856 (isolated in Hawaii), was more susceptible to the Gram-positive microbe, Staphylococcus epidermidis, but equally susceptible to Staphylococcus aureus as well as two Gram-negative microbes, Providencia rettgeri and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We performed transcriptome analysis of infected worms and found gene-expression profiles were considerably different in an isolate-specific and microbe-specific manner. We performed GO term analysis to categorize differential gene expression in response to S. epidermidis. In N2, genes that encoded detoxification enzymes and extracellular matrix proteins were significantly enriched, while in CB4856, genes that encoded detoxification enzymes, C-type lectins, and lipid metabolism proteins were enriched, suggesting they have different responses to S. epidermidis, despite being the same species. Overall, discerning gene expression signatures in an isolate by pathogen manner can help us to understand the different possibilities for the evolution of immune responses within organisms.
Comparative transcriptome analysis of heat stress responses of Clematis lanuginosa and Clematis crassifolia
Authors: Qian Renjuan , Hu Qingdi , Ma Xiaohua , Zhang Xule , Ye Youju , Liu Hongjian , Gao Handong , Zheng Jian
Published: March 2022

Background

Clematisspecies are attractive ornamental plants with a variety of flower colors and patterns. Heat stress is one of the main factors restricting the growth, development, and ornamental value ofClematis.Clematis lanuginosaandClematis crassifoliaare large-flowered and evergreenClematisspecies, respectively, that show different tolerance to heat stress. We compared and analyzed the transcriptome ofC. lanuginoseandC. crassifoliaunder heat stress to determine the regulatory mechanism(s) of resistance.

Results

A total of 1720 and 6178 differentially expressed genes were identified fromC. lanuginoseandC. crassifolia, respectively. The photosynthesis and oxidation–reduction processes ofC. crassifoliawere more sensitive thanC. lanuginoseunder heat stress. Glycine/serine/threonine metabolism, glyoxylic metabolism, and thiamine metabolism were important pathways in response to heat stress inC. lanuginose, and flavonoid biosynthesis, phenylalanine metabolism, and arginine/proline metabolism were the key pathways inC. crassifolia. SixsHSPs (c176964_g1, c200771_g1, c204924_g1, c199407_g2, c201522_g2, c192936_g1),POD1(c200317_g1),POD3(c210145_g2),DREB2(c182557_g1), andHSFA2(c206233_g2) may be key genes in the response to heat stress inC. lanuginoseandC. crassifolia.

Conclusions

We compared important metabolic pathways and differentially expressed genes in response to heat stress betweenC. lanuginoseandC. crassifolia. The results increase our understanding of the response mechanism and candidate genes ofClematisunder heat stress. These data may contribute to the development of newClematisvarieties with greater heat tolerance.
Bacteriological analysis based on disease severity and clinical characteristics in patients with deep neck space abscess
Authors: Gao Wenxiang , Lin Yu , Yue Huijun , Chen Weixiong , Liu Tianrun , Ye Jin , Cai Qian , Ye Fei , He Long , Xie Xingqiang , Xiong Guoping , Wu Jianhui , Wang Bin , Wen Weiping , Lei Wenbin
Published: March 2022

Background

Deep neck space abscess (DNSA) is a serious infection in the head and neck. Antibiotic therapy is an important treatment in patients with DNSA. However, the results of bacterial culture need at least 48 h, and the positive rate is only 30–50%, indicating that the use of empiric antibiotic treatment for most patients with DNSA should at least 48 h or even throughout the whole course of treatment. Thus, how to use empiric antibiotics has always been a problem for clinicians. This study analyzed the distribution of bacteria based on disease severity and clinical characteristics of DNSA patients, and provides bacteriological guidance for the empiric use of antibiotics.

Methods

We analyzed 433 patients with DNSA who were diagnosed and treated at nine medical centers in Guangdong Province between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2020. A nomogram for disease severity (mild/severe) was constructed using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator–logistic regression analysis. Clinical characteristics for the Gram reaction of the strain were identified using multivariate analyses.

Results

92 (21.2%) patients developed life-threatening complications. The nomogram for disease severity comprised of seven predictors. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves of the nomogram in the training and validation cohorts were 0.951 and 0.931, respectively. In the mild cases, 43.2% (101/234) had positive culture results (49% for Gram-positive and 51% for Gram-negative strains). The positive rate of cultures in the patients with severe disease was 63% (58/92, 37.9% for Gram-positive, and 62.1% for Gram-negative strains). Diabetes mellitus was an independent predictor of Gram-negative strains in the mild disease group, whereas gas formation and trismus were independent predictors of Gram-positive strains in the severe disease group. The positivity rate of multidrug-resistant strains was higher in the severe disease group (12.1%) than in the mild disease group (1.0%) (P < 0.001). Metagenomic sequencing was helpful for the bacteriological diagnosis of DNSA by identifying anaerobic strains (83.3%).

Conclusion

We established a DNSA clinical severity prediction model and found some predictors for the type of Gram-staining strains in different disease severity cases. These results can help clinicians in effectively choosing an empiric antibiotic treatment.