bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BH4 Increases nNOS Activity and Preserves Left Ventricular Function in Diabetes
Authors: Carnicer Ricardo , Duglan Drew , Ziberna Klemen , Recalde Alice , Reilly Svetlana , Simon Jillian N. , Mafrici Simona , Arya Ritu , Roselló-Lletí Esther , Chuaiphichai Surawee , Tyler Damian , Lygate Craig A. , Channon Keith M. , Casadei Barbara
Published: January 2021

Rationale:

In diabetic patients, heart failure with predominant left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction is a common complication for which there is no effective treatment. Oxidation of the NOS (nitric oxide synthase) cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) and dysfunctional NOS activity have been implicated in the pathogenesis of the diabetic vascular and cardiomyopathic phenotype.

Objective:

Using mice models and human myocardial samples, we evaluated whether and by which mechanism increasing myocardial BH4 availability prevented or reversed LV dysfunction induced by diabetes.

Methods and Results:

In contrast to the vascular endothelium, BH4 levels, superoxide production, and NOS activity (by liquid chromatography) did not differ in the LV myocardium of diabetic mice or in atrial tissue from diabetic patients. Nevertheless, the impairment in both cardiomyocyte relaxation and [Ca
2+
]i (intracellular calcium) decay and in vivo LV function (echocardiography and tissue Doppler) that developed in wild-type mice 12 weeks post–diabetes induction (streptozotocin, 42–45 mg/kg) was prevented in mGCH1-Tg (mice with elevated myocardial BH4 content secondary to trangenic overexpression of GTP-cyclohydrolase 1) and reversed in wild-type mice receiving oral BH4 supplementation from the 12th to the 18th week after diabetes induction. The protective effect of BH4 was abolished by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of nNOS (the neuronal NOS isoform) in mGCH1-Tg. In HEK (human embryonic kidney) cells, S-nitrosoglutathione led to a PKG (protein kinase G)-dependent increase in plasmalemmal density of the insulin-independent glucose transporter GLUT-1 (glucose transporter-1). In cardiomyocytes, mGCH1 overexpression induced a NO/sGC (soluble guanylate cyclase)/PKG–dependent increase in glucose uptake via GLUT-1, which was instrumental in preserving mitochondrial creatine kinase activity, oxygen consumption rate, LV energetics (by
31
phosphorous magnetic resonance spectroscopy), and myocardial function.

Conclusions:

We uncovered a novel mechanism whereby myocardial BH4 prevents and reverses LV diastolic and systolic dysfunction associated with diabetes via an nNOS-mediated increase in insulin-independent myocardial glucose uptake and utilization. These findings highlight the potential of GCH1/BH4–based therapeutics in human diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Graphic Abstract:

A
graphic abstract
is available for this article.
Achieving Optimal Medical Therapy: Insights From the ORBITA Trial
Authors: Foley Michael , Rajkumar Christopher A. , Shun‐Shin Matthew , Ganesananthan Sashiananthan , Seligman Henry , Howard James , Nowbar Alexandra N. , Keeble Thomas R. , Davies John R. , Tang Kare H. , Gerber Robert , O’Kane Peter , Sharp Andrew S. P. , Petraco Ricardo , Malik Iqbal S. , Nijjer Sukhjinder , Sen Sayan , Francis Darrel P. , Al‐Lamee Rasha
Published: January 2021

Background

In stable coronary artery disease, medications are used for 2 purposes: cardiovascular risk reduction and symptom improvement. In clinical trials and clinical practice, medication use is often not optimal. The ORBITA (Objective Randomised Blinded Investigation With Optimal Medical Therapy of Angioplasty in Stable Angina) trial was the first placebo‐controlled trial of percutaneous coronary intervention. A key component of the ORBITA trial design was the inclusion of a medical optimization phase, aimed at ensuring that all patients were treated with guideline‐directed truly optimal medical therapy. In this study, we report the medical therapy that was achieved.

Methods and Results

After enrollment into the ORBITA trial, all 200 patients entered a 6‐week period of intensive medical therapy optimization, with initiation and uptitration of risk reduction and antianginal therapy. At the prerandomization stage, the median number of antianginals established was 3 (interquartile range, 2–4). A total of 195 patients (97.5%) reached the prespecified target of ≥2 antianginals; 136 (68.0%) did not stop any antianginals because of adverse effects, and the median number of antianginals stopped for adverse effects per patient was 0 (interquartile range, 0–1). Amlodipine and bisoprolol were well tolerated (stopped for adverse effects in 4/175 [2.3%] and 9/167 [5.4%], respectively). Ranolazine and ivabradine were also well tolerated (stopped for adverse effects in 1/20 [5.0%] and 1/18 [5.6%], respectively). Isosorbide mononitrate and nicorandil were stopped for adverse effects in 36 of 172 (20.9%) and 32 of 141 (22.7%) of patients, respectively. Statins were well tolerated and taken by 191 of 200 (95.5%) patients.

Conclusions

In the 12‐week ORBITA trial period, medical therapy was successfully optimized and well tolerated, with few drug adverse effects leading to therapy cessation. Truly optimal medical therapy can be achieved in clinical trials, and translating this into longer‐term clinical practice should be a focus of future study.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02062593.
Endovascular Thrombectomy Versus Bridging Thrombolysis: Real‐World Efficacy and Safety Analysis Based on a Nationwide Registry Study
Authors: Geng Chang , Li Sheng‐De , Zhang Ding‐Ding , Ma Lin , Liu Guo‐Wei , Jiao Li‐Qun , Liu Jian‐Min , Chen Wen‐Huo , Zhu Wu‐Sheng , Wen Chang‐Ming , Peng Bin
Published: January 2021

Background

It was uncertain if direct endovascular thrombectomy (ET) was superior to bridging thrombolysis (BT) for patients with acute ischemic stroke caused by large‐vessel occlusions. We aimed to examine real‐world clinical outcomes of ET using nationwide registry data in China and to compare the efficacy and safety between BT and direct ET.

Methods and Results

Patients treated with ET from a nationwide registry study in China were included. Rapid neurological improvement, intracranial hemorrhage, and in‐hospital mortality were compared between the 2 groups using multivariate logistic models and propensity‐score matching analyses. A total of 7674 patients from 592 stroke centers were included. The median onset‐to‐puncture time, onset‐to‐door time, and door to puncture time were 290, 170, and 99 minutes, respectively. A total of 2069 (27.0%) patients received BT treatment. Patients in the BT group had a significantly shorter onset‐to‐puncture time (235 versus 323 minutes;
P
<0.001) and onset‐to‐door time (90 versus 222 minutes;
P
<0.001) compared with the direct ET group. The prior use of intravenous thrombolysis was associated with a higher rate of rapid neurological improvement (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 0.83; 95% CI, 0.71–0.96) and higher risk of intracranial hemorrhage (adjusted OR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.18–1.80) in multivariate analyses and propensity‐score matching analyses.

Conclusions

This study reflects the current application of ET in China. More patients received direct ET than BT. Our results suggested that favorable short‐term outcomes could be achieved with BT compared with direct ET. Higher risk of intracranial hemorrhage was observed in the BT group.
Papillary Muscles Abnormalities in Athletes With Otherwise Unexplained T‐Wave Inversion in the ECG Lateral Leads
Authors: De Lazzari Manuel , Zorzi Alessandro , Bettella Natascia , Cipriani Alberto , Pilichou Kalliopi , Cason Marco , Vessella Teresina , Sarto Patrizio , Gualea Maria Rita , Chianura Francesca , Tardini Lucia , Ricci Giuseppe , Mazzanti Ilaria , Ricci Fabrizio , Motta Raffaella , Perazzolo Marra Martina , Corrado Domenico
Published: January 2021

Background

Papillary muscles (PMs) abnormalities may be associated with ECG repolarization abnormalities. We aimed to evaluate the relation between lateral T‐wave inversion (TWI) and PMs characteristics in a cohort of athletes with no clinically demonstrable cardiac disease.

Methods and Results

We included 53 athletes (median age, 20 years; 87% men) with lateral TWI and no evidence of heart disease on clinical and cardiac magnetic resonance evaluation. A group of healthy athletes with normal ECG served as controls. We evaluated the PMs dimensions, such as diameters, area, volume, mass, and ratio between PMs and left ventricular mass, and the prevalence of PMs apical displacement. Compared with controls, athletes with TWI showed PMs hypertrophy with significantly increased PMs diameters, area, volume, and mass. The ratio between PMs and left ventricular mass was 4.4% in athletes with TWI and 3.0% in controls (
P
<0.001). A PMs/left ventricular mass ratio >3.5% showed 85% sensitivity and 76% specificity for differentiating between athletes with TWI and controls. Apical displacement of PMs was found in 25 (47%) athletes with TWI versus 9 (17%) controls (
P
=0.001). At multivariable analysis, PMs/left ventricular mass ratio and apical displacement remained independent predictors of TWI. Clinical outcome of the athletes with TWI and PMs abnormalities was uneventful despite continuation of their sports activity.

Conclusions

PMs hypertrophy and apical displacement may underlie otherwise unexplained lateral TWI in the athlete. Lateral TWI associated with PMs abnormalities appears as a distinct anatomo‐clinical condition characterized by a favorable outcome.
Treatment and Outcome in Stroke Patients With Acute M2 Occlusion and Minor Neurological Deficits
Authors: Dobrocky Tomas , Piechowiak Eike I. , Volbers Bastian , Slavova Nedelina , Kaesmacher Johannes , Meinel Thomas R. , Arnold Marcel , Fischer Urs , Jung Simon , Gralla Jan , Mordasini Pasquale , Heldner Mirjam R.
Published: January 2021

Background and Purpose:

Treatment in stroke patients with M2 segment occlusion of the middle cerebral artery presenting with mild neurological deficits is a matter of debate. The main purpose was to compare the outcome in patients with a minor stroke and a M2 occlusion.

Methods:

Consecutive intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) eligible patients admitted to the Bernese stroke center between January 2005 and January 2020 with acute occlusion of the M2 segment and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≤5 were included. Outcome was compared between IVT only versus endovascular therapy (EVT) including intra-arterial thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy (MT; ±IVT) and between IVT only versus MT only.

Results:

Among 169 patients (38.5% women, median age 70.2 years), 84 (49.7%) received IVT only and 85 (50.3%) EVT (±IVT), the latter including 39 (45.9%) treated with MT only. Groups were similar in sex, age, vascular risk factors, event cause, or preevent independency. Compared with IVT only, there was no difference in favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale score, 0−2) for EVT (adjusted odds ratio, 0.96; adjusted
P
=0.935) or for MT only (adjusted odds ratio, 1.12; adjusted
P
=0.547) groups. Considering only patients treated after 2015, there was a significantly better 3-month modified Rankin Scale shift (adjusted
P
=0.032) in the EVT compared with the IVT only group.

Conclusions:

Our study demonstrates similar effectiveness of IVT only versus EVT (±IVT), and of IVT only versus MT only in patients with peripheral middle cerebral artery occlusions and minor neurological deficits and indicates a possible benefit of EVT considering only patients treated after 2015. There is an unmet need for randomized controlled trials in this stroke field, including imaging parameters, and more sophisticated evaluation of National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score subitems, neurocognition, and quality of life neglected by the standard outcome scales such as modified Rankin Scale and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score.
A new species of the genus Paranthrenella Strand, 1916 (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) from China
Authors: YU TIANTIAN , GAO LEI , KALLIES AXEL , ARITA YUTAKA , WANG MIN
Published: January 2021

A new clearwing moth, Paranthrenella cinnamoma sp. nov., is described from southern China. Adults and genitalia are illustrated, DNA barcodes provided, and potential damage to Cinnamomum trees (Lauraceae) is described. Paranthrenella mushana (Matsumura, 1931) comb. nov. is transferred from Synanthedon Hübner, [1819]. A checklist of the species of Paranthrenella Strand, 1916 of China is provided.
Identities in and around organizations: Towards an identity work perspective
Authors: Brown Andrew D
Published: January 2021

There is an emergent identity work perspective that draws on multiple intertwined streams of established identities theorizing and identities-related research. This perspective is characterized loosely by five broad sets of assumptions: (i) selves are reflexive and identities actively worked on, both in soliloquy and social interaction; (ii) identities are multiple, fluid and rarely fully coherent; (iii) identities are constructed within relations of power; (iv) identities are not helpfully described as either positive or authentic; and (v) identities are both interesting per se and integral to processes of organizing. Recognition of an emergent identity work perspective is valuable in part because this may act as a counterbalance to centrifugal tendencies – fed by myopia, insularity and ethnocentrism – which might otherwise lead to blinkered research and fragmentation. The contribution of this article is to provide a baseline for identity work scholars, and to promote collective critical reflection on identities in and around organizations.
Distance learning in engineering education: Challenges and opportunities during COVID-19 pandemic crisis in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Zeashan H , Abid Muhammad I
Published: January 2021

This paper analyzes the impact of remote classrooms and labs as an outcome of “social distancing” during COVID-19 outbreak. It is important to analyze the emergence of web technologies and tools available for online learning and its impact on engineering education. The intended focus is to find a way out to address the issues regarding continued teaching and learning during long academic breaks due to this unpredicted pandemic. Some challenges in developing economies include the unavailability of internet services all over the country and limited resources accessible to large community to earn and learn during such epidemics. This study outlines various policy guidelines for online delivery of engineering courses and assessment techniques as experienced during this global pandemic. These guidelines will provide a roadmap for quality teaching and evaluation of online engineering courses.
Listeners’ Perceptions of Choral Performances With Static and Expressive Movement
Authors: Nápoles Jessica , Geringer John M. , Adams Kari , Springer D. Gregory
Published: January 2021

We examined how movement impacted listeners’ perceptions of choral performances. Participants ( N = 115; n = 60 nonmusic majors, n = 55 music majors) viewed excerpts of Moses Hogan’s “Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel” under four conditions: good tone/expressive movement (GT/EM), good tone/static movement (GT/SM), poor tone/expressive movement (PT/EM), and poor tone/static movement (PT/SM). They rated tone quality and overall expressivity for each excerpt. We found a significant multivariate main effect for the examples. For both tone quality and expressivity, participants rated the examples in the following order from highest to lowest: GT/EM, GT/SM, PT/SM, and PT/EM. There was a significant interaction between the examples and participants’ major. Music majors rated the GT/EM example higher than the nonmusic majors but rated the other three examples lower than the nonmajors. Expressive movement seemed to enhance ratings of expressivity when performed with good tone but detracted when the tone was poor. In written responses, majors distinguished between expressive movement and tone consistently, while nonmajors could not consistently separate what they were seeing from what they were hearing.
The Editor’s Note: Let the children persuade
Authors: Heller Rafael
Published: January 2021

Many Americans think that schools have no business asking children to debate controversial topics and come to their own conclusions. Yet times of political crisis show that such debates, and the skills students build be engaging in them, are essential to democracy. Kappan editor Rafael Heller notes that past crises have led schools to spend time teaching students about propaganda and rhetoric and to encourage them to analyze and participate in public persuasion.
An eternal monkey trial? Evolution and creationism in U.S. schools
Authors: Laats Adam
Published: January 2021

When it comes to creationism, it might seem as if the United States is trapped in a century-long culture-war rut. In a sense, the Scopes Trial of 1925 put science itself on trial, and it can seem as if every new dispute over teaching evolution is only a repetition of that famous trial. In truth, however, the power of creationism has ebbed dramatically over the past 100 years. Adam Laats examines the history of creationist activism and describes the radical diminution in the power of creationism in America’s public schools.
Backtalk: An opportunity framework for career pathway programs
Authors: Manno Bruno V.
Published: January 2021

Traditional career development programs have focused on developing the skills students need to become qualified and competent in the career of their choice. But, as Bruno Manno explains, students need more than specific job skills to succeed in careers. They need the habits of mind that will enable them to set a goal and pursue it and the habits of association that will connect them to people who can help them succeed. By adopting an opportunity equation framework, career pathways can work with community partners to help students practice these habits in real workplaces.
Preteen Behaviors and Sexual Orientation of High School Students Who Report Depressive Symptoms, United States, 2015-2017
Authors: D’Agati Douglas , Kahn Geoffrey D. , Swartz Karen L.
Published: January 2021

Unhealthy preteen behaviors are associated with adolescent depression. However, little is known about preteen factors among sexual minority young people, a group at increased risk for teen depression and suicide. We completed weighted multivariate logistic regression analyses on data from the national 2015 and 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Survey of 30 389 high school students in the United States. Preteen sex, cigarette smoking, and alcohol and marijuana use were significantly more prevalent among lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) and questioning students who reported depressive symptoms than among their heterosexual peers (adjusted prevalence ratio [APR] range, 1.33-2.34; all significant at P < .05). The only exception was that marijuana use among questioning students was not significantly different from use among heterosexual peers (APR = 1.34; P = .11). Assessment of preteen sex and substance use—especially among LGB and questioning young people, who are more prone to depressive symptoms and more likely to initiate risky preteen behaviors than their heterosexual counterparts—will facilitate a life course approach to sexual minority mental health that should begin by early adolescence.
Study on frequency selective/absorption/reflection multilayer composite flexible electromagnetic wave absorbing fabric
Authors: Zhang Hengyu , Chen Jianying , Wang Yan , Ji Hui , Wang Ni , Xiao Hong
Published: January 2021

In order to realize wide-band, high-efficiency and flexible electromagnetic wave absorption, an effective method is the combination of different electromagnetic functional materials. How to use and make the multilayer materials with individual absorption, reflection and selective transmission characteristics is very important. In this work, multilayer composite flexible absorbing fabrics made of a frequency selective surface (FSS), carbonyl iron coated fabrics (CIFs) and copper-nickel plated conductive woven fabrics (CWFs) were prepared. The layered composite materials have a thin thickness, good flexibility and adjustable absorption band, which provide a reference for the development of lightweight and efficient electromagnetic wave absorbing materials. The influence of the resonance point, wave absorbent content and conductive layer on the absorbing properties were studied. CIF-3 with a surface density of 2046.9 g/m2 has the best absorption performance with a minimum reflectivity of –20.52 dB at 12.56 GHz. A one-layer FSS can broaden the absorption bandwidth; the broadening degree varies with the resonance point of the FSS, which also makes the absorption band adjustable. The bandwidth of f12/CIF-3 with reflectivity of less than –10 dB can reach 5.68 GHz. Besides, CWF is beneficial to increase the absorption intensity, and the best reflectivity of CIF-3/CWF can reach –27.73 dB. Furthermore, three-layer composites can improve the absorption strength and bandwidth of CIF at low frequency. Compared with CIF-3, the reflectivity of f14/CIF-3/CWF decreases 8.06 dB at 11.28 GHz, and the bandwidth is 4.72 GHz, which widens by 0.32 GHz.
Auxetic behavior of warp knitted fabric under repeating tension
Authors: Shuaiquan Zhao , Yuping Chang , Yadie Yang , Minglonghai Zhang , Kamrul Hasan , Hong Hu
Published: January 2021

In our previous study, a novel class of auxetic warp knitted fabrics were developed and their auxetic behaviors were studied under a single tensile test. However, during daily use, the fabrics are usually subjected to repeating tension rather than single tension. Therefore, the durability of the fabrics’ auxetic performance is of great importance. So far, the auxetic behavior of fabrics under repeating tension has not systematically been investigated. In this paper, we report a study on the auxetic behavior of warp knitted fabrics under repeating tension. All the fabric samples were subjected to a repeating tensile test within a tensile strain of 25% until 100 tensile cycles. The results show that the fabrics can keep their auxetic effect in both course and wale testing directions after 100 tensile cycles, and the auxetic effect in the wale direction is retained longer under higher tensile strains than that under lower tensile strains with the increase of tensile cycles. The results also indicate that auxetic stability in the course direction is much better than that in the wale direction. We hope that this study can offer useful information to improve the auxetic stability of auxetic fabrics for practical use.
Integrating Authenticity, Well-being, and Memorability in Heritage Tourism: A Two-Site Investigation
Authors: Yi Xiaoli , Fu Xiaoxiao , Lin Vera Shanshan , Xiao Honggen
Published: January 2021

Authenticity, well-being, and memorability are essential to understanding tourist experience, yet little is known about the mechanism underlying these interrelated concepts. This study explores how tourists’ perceived authenticity influences memorability through their existential authenticity and well-being in the context of heritage tourism. Using data from visitors to two world heritage sites in China (West Lake and Lijiang), the effects of existential authenticity on tourists’ psychological and subjective well-being are empirically tested. Findings from cross-regional surveys reveal that existential authenticity, triggered by tourists’ perceived authenticity of local cultural heritage, is significantly associated with memorability and psychological and subjective well-being. Results further show that perceived authenticity of local cultural heritage contributes to memorability through existential authenticity and well-being. Elucidation of these conceptual relationships has theoretical and practical implications for heritage tourism studies and management.
The role of identity in chronic pain cognitions and pain-related disability within a clinical chronic pain population
Authors: Reed David E , Cobos Briana , Nagpal Ameet S , Eckmann Max , McGeary Donald D
Published: January 2021

Objective

Chronic pain has a significant impact on functioning and results in the disruption of one’s assumed life trajectory, potentially altering their self-perceived identity. The present research is designed to determine whether identity-related issues are associated with common chronic pain cognitions and pain-related disability, which may help inform understanding of clinical chronic pain populations.

Method

Ninety-eight adult chronic pain patients were assessed at a local pain clinic during a regularly scheduled appointment focusing on pain management. Multivariate hierarchal regression was used to determine whether issues related to identity and death anxiety were associated with pain catastrophizing, pain acceptance, and pain-related disability, above and beyond pain severity, fear-avoidance, and age.

Results

Self-concept clarity was significantly related to pain catastrophizing and pain acceptance, above and beyond death anxiety, pain severity, fear-avoidance, and age. Death anxiety was associated with pain catastrophizing, pain acceptance, and pain-related disability above and beyond pain severity, fear-avoidance, and age.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first examination of self-concept clarity and death anxiety as they relate to pain catastrophizing, pain acceptance, and pain-related disability. These descriptive results support the inclusion of identity and death anxiety within the pain experience and could serve as a foundation for future directions relevant to clinical applications.
Impact of Treatment on Vestibular Schwannoma–Associated Symptoms: A Prospective Study Comparing Treatment Modalities
Authors: Barnes Jason H. , Patel Neil S. , Lohse Christine M. , Tombers Nicole M. , Link Michael J. , Carlson Matthew L.
Published: January 2021

Objective

The degree to which various treatment modalities modify vestibular schwannoma (VS)–associated symptoms has received limited attention. The purpose of this study was to determine how different treatment modalities affect subjective symptoms in those presenting with VS.

Study Design

Prospective survey.

Setting

Tertiary neurotology referral center.

Methods

Patients with sporadic VS who received treatment at our institution were prospectively surveyed with a VS symptom questionnaire. Those who completed a baseline survey prior to treatment and at least 1 posttreatment survey were included. The prospective survey evaluated the severity of self‐reported symptoms (Likert scale, 1‐10), including tinnitus, dizziness or imbalance, headaches, and hearing loss.

Results

A total of 244 patients were included (mean age, 57 years). The mean duration of follow‐up was 2.1 years, and the median number of surveys completed was 2 (interquartile range, 1‐3). Seventy‐eight (32%) cases were managed with observation, 118 (48%) with microsurgery, and 48 (20%) with radiosurgery. Multivariable analyses revealed no statistically significant difference in the change in tinnitus (P =. 15), dizziness or imbalance (P = 0.66), or headaches (P =. 24) among treatment groups. Evaluation of clinically important differences demonstrated that microsurgery leads to significant bidirectional changes in headaches.

Conclusions

Limited prospective data exist regarding the progression or resolution of subjective symptoms in those presenting with VS. This study suggests that tinnitus, dizziness or imbalance, and headaches are unlikely to be significantly modified by treatment modality and generally should not be used to direct treatment choice.
Indigenous language newspapers and the digital media conundrum in Africa
Authors: Onyenankeya Kevin
Published: January 2021

The future of journalism is being shaped by the convergence of technology and societal shifts. For indigenous language press in Africa battling to stay afloat amidst stiff competition from traditional media, the pervasive and rapidly encroaching digital transformation holds both opportunities and potential threats. Using a qualitative approach, this paper examined the implication of the shift to digital media for the future of the indigenous language newspaper in Africa and identifies opportunities for its sustainability within the framework of the theories of technological determinism and alternative media. The analysis indicates poor funding, shrinking patronage, and competition from traditional and social media as the major factors facing indigenous newspapers. It emerged that for indigenous language newspapers to thrive in the rapidly changing and technology-driven world they need to not only adapt to the digital revolution but also explore a business model that combines a futuristic outlook with a practical approach.
Correspondence between patterns of cerebral blood flow and structure in adolescents with and without bipolar disorder
Authors: Luciw Nicholas J , Toma Simina , Goldstein Benjamin I , MacIntosh Bradley J
Published: January 2021

Adolescence is a period of rapid development of the brain’s inherent functional and structural networks; however, little is known about the region-to-region organization of adolescent cerebral blood flow (CBF) or its relationship to neuroanatomy. Here, we investigate both the regional covariation of CBF MRI and the covariation of structural MRI, in adolescents with and without bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a disease with increased onset during adolescence, putative vascular underpinnings, and evidence of anomalous CBF and brain structure. In both groups, through hierarchical clustering, we found CBF covariance was principally described by clusters of regions circumscribed to the left hemisphere, right hemisphere, and the inferior brain; these clusters were spatially reminiscent of cerebral vascular territories. CBF covariance was associated with structural covariance in both the healthy group (n = 56; r = 0.20, p < 0.0001) and in the bipolar disorder group (n = 68; r = 0.36, p < 0.0001), and this CBF-structure correspondence was higher in bipolar disorder ( p = 0.0028). There was lower CBF covariance in bipolar disorder compared to controls between the left angular gyrus and pre- and post-central gyri. Altogether, CBF covariance revealed distinct brain organization, had modest correspondence to structural covariance, and revealed evidence of differences in bipolar disorder.
Differential diagnosis of renal oncocytoma and chromophobe renal cell carcinoma using CT features: a central scar-matched retrospective study
Authors: Li Xiaoli , Nie Pei , Zhang Jing , Hou Feng , Ma Qianli , Cui Jiufa
Published: January 2021

Background

Renal oncocytoma (RO) and chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (chRCC) have a common cellular origin and different clinical management and prognosis.

Purpose

To explore the utility of computed tomography (CT) in the differentiation of RO and chRCC.

Material and Methods

Twenty-five patients with RO and 73 patients with chRCC presenting with the central scar were included retrospectively. Two experienced radiologists independently reviewed the CT imaging features, including location, tumor size, relative density ratio, segmental enhancement inversion (SEI), necrosis, and perirenal fascia thickening, among others. Interclass correlation coefficient (ICC, for continuous variables) or Kappa coefficient test (for categorical variables) was used to determine intra-observer and inter-observer bias between the two radiologists.

Results

The inter- and intra-reader reproducibility of the other CT imaging parameters were nearly perfect (>0.81) except for the measurements of fat (0.662). RO differed from chRCC in the cortical or medullary side ( P = 0.005), relative density ratio ( P = 0.020), SEI ( P < 0.001), and necrosis ( P = 0.045). The logistic regression model showed that location (right kidney), hypo-density on non-enhanced CT, SEI, and perirenal fascia thickening were highly predictive of RO. The combined indicators from logistic regression model were used for ROC analysis. The area under the ROC curve was 0.923 ( P < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of the four factors combined for diagnosing RO were 88% and 86.3%, respectively. The correlation coefficient between necrosis and tumor size in all tumors including both of RO and chRCC was 0.584, indicating a positive correlation ( P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The CT imaging features of location (right kidney), hypo-density on non-enhanced CT, SEI, and perirenal fascia thickening were valuable indicators in distinguishing RO from chRCC.
Extensive cutaneous iatrogenic Kaposi’s sarcoma after bullous pemphigoid treatment with oral methylprednisolone: a rare Chinese case report
Authors: Chen Sheng-An , Wang Lan-Ting , Chen Zi-Hua , Yang Fan-Ping , Zhu Qin-Yuan , Chen Hu-Yan , Luo Xiao-Qun
Published: January 2021

Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is an autoimmune disease that requires immunosuppressive therapy. Systemic corticosteroids are considered the standard treatment for moderate-to-severe BP. Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) is a rare multifocal endothelial tumour that affects the skin, mucosa and viscera. As an angioproliferative disease of obscure aetiopathogenesis and histogenesis, KS is associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). This current case report describes a rare occurrence of extensive cutaneous KS in a 60-year-old Chinese male patient after oral methylprednisolone treatment for BP with an emphasis on its pathological characterization. A total of more than 40 nodules were found on his trunk and lower limbs covering more than 20% of his body surface area. Immunohistochemical staining of biopsy samples from the lesion showed the patient was positive for HHV-8, CD31, CD34, XIIIa, ERG and Ki-67. The Epstein–Barr virus test showed the patient tested negative for immunoglobulin (Ig)A and IgM, but was positive for IgG. Immunosuppression associated with the treatment for BP may activate a latent HHV-8 infection and induce the development of KS.
Co-production, multiplied: Enactments of sex as a biological variable in US biomedicine
Authors: Pape Madeleine
Published: January 2021

In 2016 the US National Institutes of Health introduced a policy mandating consideration of Sex as a Biological Variable (SABV) in preclinical research. In this article, I ask what, precisely, is meant by the designation of sex as a ‘biological variable’, and how has its inclusion come to take the form of a policy mandate? Given the well documented complexity of ‘sex’ and the degree to which it is politically and scientifically contested, its enactment via policy as a biological variable is not a given. I explore how sex is multiply enacted in efforts to legitimate and realize the SABV policy and consider how the analytical lens of co-production sheds light on how and why this occurs. I show that the policy works to reassert scientific and political order by addressing two institutional concerns: the so-called reproducibility crisis in preclinical research, and pervasive gender inequality across the institution of biomedicine. From here, the entity that underpins this effort – sex as a biological variable – becomes more than one thing, with enactments ranging from an assigned category, to an outcome, to a causal biological force in its own right. Sex emerges as simultaneously entangled with yet distinct from gender, and binary (female/male) yet complex in its variation. I suggest that it is in the very attempt to delineate natural from social order, and in the process create the conditions to privilege a particular kind of science and account of embodied difference, that ontological multiplicity becomes readily visible. That this multiplicity goes unrecognized points to the unifying role of an overarching ideological commitment to sex as a presumed binary and biological scientific object, the institutional dominance of which is never guaranteed.
Introduction
Authors: Bhatia Monish , Bruce-Jones Eddie
Published: January 2021

This introduction to the special issue of Race & Class on Race, Mental Health and State Violence by its guest-editors sets out the main themes and scope of the issue, and its genesis, together with a brief account of the contributions included.
Substance use disorder in anaesthetists: A personal perspective
Authors: Baird Colin RW
Published: January 2021

In this article, I present a firsthand account as an anaesthetist with substance use disorder who has been through rehabilitation and returned to clinical anaesthesia, followed by an overview of substance use disorder in anaesthesia. Substance use disorder is prevalent within the anaesthesia community and can result in tragic consequences, including death in many cases. The incidence is around one to two per 1000 anaesthetist years and this appears to be rising, perhaps mirroring the population-wide increase in substance use disorder as a result of the opioid epidemic. Recognising substance use disorder in a colleague and intervening to try and help them and protect patients can be immensely challenging. Carrying out a successful intervention requires careful planning and coordination in order to protect the affected individual, their colleagues and patients. Returning to clinical anaesthesia following a diagnosis of substance use disorder is also contentious, with the high abstinence rate (relative to the wider substance use disorder population) having to be balanced against the risk of death following relapse. Any return to practice must be well planned and supported, and include appropriate toxicology screening. With such measures, rehabilitation and a return to clinical anaesthesia is possible in certain cases. For the affected individual regaining, then maintaining, their professional identity can be a powerful motivator to remain abstinent. Drug diversion and substance use disorder in anaesthesia is unlikely ever to be fully preventable, but strategies such as biometric dispensing, analysis of unused drugs, random toxicology and ongoing education may help to keep it to a minimum.
Library services and indigenous peoples in Latin America: Reviewing concepts, gathering experiences
Authors: Civallero Edgardo
Published: January 2021

There have been library services for indigenous peoples in Latin America since at least the 1980s; they are small-scale, very specific experiences that, until recent times, have been poorly systematized and scarcely discussed. Throughout their brief but intense history – a story that has been replicated in many other countries around the world, from Canada to New Zealand – these services have faced a series of crossroads, contradictions and conflicts that they have not always been able to resolve, from the controversial label ‘indigenous libraries’ to their scope and the categories and methodologies they use. From a first-person perspective (the author was among the first library and information science professionals to work with this topic in Latin America and has been active in the field for the last 20 years), this article briefly reviews the state of affairs in South America, pointing out the main milestones in the history of these services in the region. It identifies some concepts and ideas that require urgent discussion from both a library and information science and interdisciplinary framework, and suggests some paths to explore in the near future.
Acrylamide treatment alters the level of Ca2+ and Ca2+-related protein kinase in spinal cords of rats
Authors: Zheng Yunhe , Yang Chen , Zheng Xiu’e , Guan Qiangdong , Yu Sufang
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to analyze the neurological changes induced by acrylamide (ACR) poisoning and their underlying mechanisms within the spinal cords of male adult Wistar rats. The rats were randomly divided into three groups ( n = 9 rats per group). ACR was intraperitoneally injected to produce axonopathy according to the daily dosing schedules of 20 or 40 mg/kg/day of ACR for eight continuous weeks (three times per week). During the exposure period, body weights and gait scores were assessed, and the concentration of Ca2+ was calculated in 27 mice. Protein kinase A (PKA), protein kinase C (PKC), cyclin-dependent protein kinase 5 (CDK5), and P35 were assessed by electrophoretic resolution and Western blotting. The contents of 3′-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and calmodulin (CaM) were determined using ELISA kits, and the activities of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), PKA, and PKC were determined using the commercial Signa TECTPKAassay kits. Compared with control rats, treatment with 20 and 40 mg/kg of ACR decreased body weight and increased gait scores at 8 weeks. Intracellular Ca2+ levels increased significantly in treated rats; CaM, PKC, CDK5, and P35 levels were significantly decreased; and PKA and cAMP levels remained unchanged. CaMKII, PKA, and PKC activities increased significantly. The results indicated that ACR can damage neurofilaments by affecting the contents and activities of CaM, CaMKII, PKA, cAMP, PKC, CDK5, and P35, which could result in ACR toxic neuropathy.
Lidocaine-loaded reduced graphene oxide hydrogel for prolongation of effects of local anesthesia: In vitro and in vivo analyses
Authors: Li Weifan , Zhang Guangqi , Wei Xiaoxia
Published: January 2021

Lidocaine is widely used as a local anesthetic for alleviation of post-operative pain and for management of acute and chronic painful conditions. Although several approaches are currently used to prolong the duration of action, an effective strategy to achieve neural blockage for several hours remains to be identified. In this study, a lidocaine-loaded Pluronic® F68-reduced graphene oxide hydrogel was developed to achieve sustained release of lidocaine. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the synthesis of Pluronic® F68-reduced graphene oxide. Transmission electron microscopy showed wrinkled, flat nanosheets with micelles attached. The developed hydrogel showed desirable pH, viscosity, adhesiveness, hardness, and cohesiveness for topical application. The ex vivo release study demonstrated the ability of the Pluronic® F68-reduced graphene oxide hydrogel to prolong release up to 10 h, owing to the strong π–π interactions between the graphene oxide and the lidocaine. In comparison with a commercial lidocaine ointment, the developed graphene oxide hydrogel showed sustained anesthetic effect in the radiant heat tail flick test and sciatic nerve block model. Thus, this study demonstrates the potential of using Pluronic® F68-reduced graphene oxide nanocarriers to realize prolonged effects of local anesthesia for effective pain management.
Comparison of incremental sheet metal forming process using newly designed multipoint tool with the existing single point tool by optimization and characterization methods on austenite stainless steel 202
Authors: Kathalingam Ramkumar , Neelakandan Baskar , Krishnan Elangovan , Chinnayan Sathiya Narayanan , Arangulavan Selvarajan , Muthukrishnan Varatharajulu
Published: January 2021

Incremental Sheet metal Forming (ISF) is a reliable process of converting a blank to work piece with better outputs compared to conventional forming process. The flexibility of ISF in producing the rapid prototype based on the customer needs is increased which is also desirable in the industry. But Single Point Incremental Forming (SPIF) process takes more time to form a product and hence the longer time is a barrier in implementing this process in industries. In this research work, the ISF process was made on sheet metal SS 202 using a newly designed multi-point tool and the obtained outputs were compared with the same material of sheet metal formed by traditionally available single point tool. This Multi Point Incremental Forming (MPIF) process takes lesser process time to give better formability, improved wall angle and good surface roughness. The input process parameters selected for the process are type of tool, speed, feed, Vertical Step Depth (VSD), and lubrication. They are arranged by using the taguchi Design of Experiments (DOE) approach. The responses considered are wall angle, formability, surface roughness, spring back and forming time. The multiple outputs obtained were optimized by Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) to predict the superior parameter. Confirmation test was also made to validate the output result. Fractography analysis was carried out to predict the fracture mechanism obtained during the forming process. The surface topography was also made on the surface of the formed area of the sheet metal. This research work concludes that newly designed MPIF outperforms SPIF.
Research on power coupling characteristics and acceleration strategy of electro-hydrostatic hydraulic hybrid power system
Authors: Liu Huanlong , Li Dafa , Chen Guanpeng , Xie Chixin , Wang Jiawei , Feng Lei
Published: January 2021

Aiming at the adverse effect of the peak power of the electric motor of the battery-powered rail vehicles on the battery life and the driving range when starting or accelerating, a new type of electro-hydrostatic hydraulic hybrid powertrain is designed. This article proposes a novel power form that assists the vehicle to start or accelerate through two power coupling methods: torque coupling circuit and flow rate coupling circuit which have good power performance and energy-saving performance. A mathematical model for power coupling of hybrid power system is constructed, and the effects of key parameters of the system and different power coupling ratios on electric power consumption and power coupling characteristics are studied. Based on the simulation and test platform, the power coupling characteristics of the electro-hydrostatic hydraulic hybrid powertrain are simulated and experimentally researched. The results show that compared with the traditional electro-hydrostatic series system, the novel electro-hydrostatic hydraulic hybrid powertrain can effectively avoid the impact of electric motor power and reduce the power consumption. Based on the characteristics of power coupling, the acceleration strategy of minimum peak power is studied to control the key components of the power coupling process. Simulation and experimental results show that under the control of the new acceleration strategy, the electro-hydrostatic hydraulic hybrid powertrain has good electro-hydraulic power coupling characteristics. The electric power of the power system is greatly reduced during acceleration, which has better energy-saving characteristics and value for engineering applications.
Legionella pneumophila as a cause of cavitary lung disease in systemic lupus erythematous
Authors: Khokher Waleed , Kesireddy Nithin , Adunse Josephine , Mudiyanselage Prabath Herath , Iftikhar Saffa , Assaly Ragheb
Published: January 2021

Legionnaire’s disease (LD) is most commonly caused by Legionella pneumophila (L. pneumophila). In immunocompromised patients LD can cause necrosis of the lung parenchyma with abscess formation and cavitation. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder with features of both primary and secondary immunodeficiency. SLE patients often develop pulmonary abnormalities, but rarely develop lung cavitations. We report a case of cavitary pneumonia caused by L. pneumophila in a 64-year-old female patient with SLE. We also highlight reasons why SLE patients are more prone to L. pneumophila infections. The importance of using correct diagnostic methods for recognizing and treating such infections is also discussed, as mistreatment of cavitary lesions in SLE patients with steroid therapy can have fatal outcomes as the infectious process can significantly worsen.