bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emergency Department Management of Acute Venous Thromboembolism in Patients With Obesity With Intravenous Unfractionated Heparin and Anti-Xa Monitoring
Authors: Tyler Dion J. , Caruso Kelsea A. , Lyden Abbie E. , Karpowitsch Katrina M.
Published: February 2022

Background: Unfractionated heparin (UFH) remains a frequently utilized agent in the emergency department (ED) for management of acute venous thromboembolism (VTE). While various protocols of UFH dosing have been proposed for patients with obesity, the optimal dosing and monitoring strategy is unclear. Objective: This study aims to compare the time to the first therapeutic anti-Xa level in obese acute VTE patients following the use of either total body weight (TBW) or adjusted body weight-based (AdjBW) dosing of UFH in the ED, and to analyze the impact of different dosing strategies on patient outcomes. Methods: Inclusion criteria included adult patients with a BMI > 30 kg/m2, and suspected VTE managed with UFH per institutional protocol utilizing a bolus dose followed by maintenance infusion and anti-Xa monitoring. The primary outcome was time to the first therapeutic anti-Xa level in the group dosed per TBW compared with the group dosed per AdjBW. Safety outcomes included incidence of bleeding events, protamine administration, and mortality. Results: There were 32 patients included in the study. Patients dosed per TBW achieved a median time to first therapeutic anti-Xa level of 14.5 hours compared with 15 hours in the AdjBW group ( P = .613). The median therapeutic UFH infusion rate was 16 units/kg/hr in the TBW group compared with 13.5 units/kg/hr in the AdjBW group ( P < .001). Safety outcomes were not significantly different between groups. Conclusion: Patients presenting to the ED with acute VTE may be managed with UFH using either a TBW or AdjBW dosing strategy.
Utilization of Recommended Preventive Health Screenings Between Transgender and Cisgender Older Adults in Sexual and Gender Minority Communities
Authors: Hoy-Ellis Charles P. , Fredriksen-Goldsen Karen I. , Kim Hyun-Jun
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Transgender older adults are among the most health disparate populations in the United States; they also face some of the most significant barriers in accessing high quality, affordable, preventive healthcare services. We compare utilization rates of eight recommended preventive health screenings for adults aged 50 and older, by gender identity. Methods: We analyzed data from 2514 lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender adults aged 50 and older, testing associations between gender identities and screening service utilizations by applying a series of multivariate logistic regression analyses, controlling for sociodemographics. Results: Compared to cisgender LGB participants, transgender participants had significantly lower odds to have met four of the recommended screenings. Transgender men had significantly lower odds than transgender women to have met two of the recommended screenings. Discussion: Increasing transgender older adults’ access to preventative health screening tests is critical to reduce the health burden in this aging population.
Piperlongumine inhibits diethylnitrosamine induced hepatocellular carcinoma in rats
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Naithani Manisha , Kumar Nitesh , Singh Neha , Agrawal Shruti , Sharma Ambika , Thapliyal Surabhi , Singh Jagjit , Handu Shailendra
Published: February 2022

Background:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Piperlongumine (PL) has been claimed to have cytotoxic and HCC inhibitory effects in various cancer cell lines and xenograft models, but the chemopreventive potential of PL has not been studied in experimentally induced HCC yet.

Research Design:

Twenty-four Wistar male rats were divided into four groups of six each, Group A: untreated control; Group B: Diethylnitrosamine (DEN) control (200 mg/kg), Group C: DEN + PL 10 mg/kg; and Group D: DEN + PL 20 mg/kg. Rats from all groups were assessed for liver cancer progression or inhibition by evaluating biochemical, cytokines, tumor markers, lipid peroxidation, and histological profiles. 

Results:

The liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, and lipid peroxidation were significantly decreased in Group C and Group D compared to Group B. Upregulation in the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1B, TNF-α, inflammatory mediator (NF-κB) and tumour marker alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in Group B were brought down upon treatment with piperlongumine in a dose-dependent manner. Antitumor cytokine (IL-12) was upregulated in PL-treated rats compared to DEN control rats. DEN treated group (Group B) showed histological features of HCC, and in rats treated with PL (Groups C, D) partial to complete reversal to normal liver histoarchitecture was observed.

Conclusions:

The potential chemopreventive actions of piperlongumine may be due to its free radical scavenging and antiproliferative effect. Therefore, piperlongumine may serve as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Preliminary safety assessment of CIGB-210, an investigational peptide for HIV infection
Authors: Ramírez-Suárez Anna C , Paneque-Guerrero Taimi , Casillas-Casanova Dionne , Cosme Karelia , Bacardí Dania , Duarte Carlos A , Ancízar Julio , Brown Emma , Castro Jorge , Suárez-Alba José , Garay Hilda , Pereira Karla , Fernández-Ortega Celia
Published: February 2022

Current human immunodeficiency virus treatments need to be periodically administered lifelong. In this study we assess the effect of repeated doses of an anti-HIV peptide drug candidate in C57BL6 strain. Two schemes of up to 15 administrations and one of 30, daily dosing for 5 days per week, all by the subcutaneous route were evaluated. Different dose concentrations of the peptide were assayed. CIGB-210 treated animals showed no symptoms or abnormal behavior as compared with placebo. All the animals gained weight during the study. Macroscopic evaluation showed no alterations in any of the organs studied. Microscopic analysis of the tissues did not show morphological changes in thymus, stomach, small and large intestines, kidney, brain, or cerebellum. The proliferative response of splenocytes and their capacity to secrete gamma interferon were not compromised by the repeated administration of CIGB-210. There were not statistically significant differences for any of the parameters evaluated during the study among treated and non-treated groups. We can conclude that CIGB-210 is well tolerated in C57BL6 mice in the dose concentration range explored and merits subsequent toxicological studies.
Mechanical properties of an epoxy-based coating reinforced with silica aerogel and ammonium polyphosphate additives
Authors: Riahipour Ramin , Nemati Mohammad Saber , Zadehmohamad Mehdi , Abadyan Mohammad reza , Tehrani Mehran , Baniassadi Majid
Published: February 2022

Flame retardant (FR) additives may degrade polymers’ mechanical performance. In this work, FR epoxy composites fabricated based on two popular FR agents of ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and silica aerogel (SAG) are investigated. Several mechanical properties of these composites, including compressive, micro-hardness, and Izod impact, were investigated for different filler loadings. Although the addition of 10 vol.% APP improved compressive modulus, yield strength, and micro-hardness, it degraded the impact strength. The incorporation of SAG made the composites more ductile, improved the impact strength, but deteriorated their compressive properties. Samples containing both SAG and APP demonstrated synergetic effects evident by their enhanced compressive properties and hardness. The findings of this study can guide the design of epoxies with both exceptional FR and mechanical performance.
Efficacy of Non-contact BallistocardiographySystem to Determine Heart Rate Variability
Authors: Parchani Gaurav , Kumar Gulshan , Rao Raghavendra , Udupa Kaviraja , Saran Vibhor
Published: February 2022

Background:

Functions of the autonomic nervous system have cardinal importance in day-to-day life. Heart rate variability (HRV) has been shown to estimate the functioning of the autonomic nervous system. Imbalance in the functioning of the autonomic nervous system is seen to be associated with chronic conditions such as chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and so on.

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy of a non-contact ballistocardiography (BCG) system to calculate HRV parameters by comparing them to the parameters derived from a standard commercial software that uses an electrocardiogram (ECG).

Methods:

Current study captured an ECG signal using a three-channel ECG Holter machine, whereas the BCG signal was captured using a BCG sensor sheet consisting of vibroacoustic sensors placed under the mattress of the participants of the study.

Results:

The study was conducted on 24 subjects for a total of 54 overnight recordings. The proposed method covered 97.92% epochs of the standard deviation of NN intervals (SDNN) and 99.27% epochs of root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) within 20 ms and 30 ms tolerance, respectively, whereas 98.84% of two-min intervals for low-frequency (LF) to high-frequency (HF) ratio was covered within a tolerance of 1. Kendall’s coefficient of concordance was also calculated, giving a P < .001 for all the three parameters and coefficients 0.66, 0.55, and 0.44 for SDNN, RMSSD, and LF/HF, respectively.

Conclusion:

The results show that HRV parameters captured using unobtrusive and non-invasive BCG sensors are comparable to HRV calculated using ECG.
Integrating Psychological Resilience, Stress, and Coping in Entrepreneurship: A Critical Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Ahmed Ali E. , Ucbasaran Deniz , Cacciotti Gabriella , Williams Trenton A.
Published: February 2022

Despite the increasing interest in studying the concept of resilience in entrepreneurship, existing research often fails to account for stressors that induce entrepreneurs’ need for resilience and coping efforts. By arguing the need to study stress, resilience, and coping together to understand how entrepreneurs build resilience in the face of adversities, we systematically review the entrepreneurship scholarship (125 articles) on these three concepts. By critically appraising these three literatures in light of current thinking in psychology, we then develop a model of the process of building psychological resilience in entrepreneurship and offer a clear pathway for future research.
Adoption of Education Technologies for Learning During COVID-19 Pandemic: The Experiences of Marginalized and Vulnerable Learner Populations in Kenya
Authors: Ochieng Vollan Okoth , Waithanji Ngware Moses
Published: February 2022

The onset of COVID-19 made governments and other education actors prioritize distance learning, particularly through education technologies (EdTechs). Most sub-Saharan African countries adopted and adapted this approach. This paper examines the extent of EdTechs’ deployment in Kenya during the COVID-19 pandemic among marginalized and vulnerable populations. A cross-sectional study design was adopted for the study from which this paper drew its data, with both secondary and primary data utilized. The findings show that marginalized/vulnerable learner populations are still left out on EdTech supported learning. This article proposes salient recommendations that could help advance inclusive education discussion and related EdTechs’ discourse.
Tazarotene 0.045% Lotion: A Novel Retinoid Formulation
Authors: Mohney Lindsey A. , Singh Rohan , Feldman Steven R.
Published: February 2022

Objective

The aim of this study is to review the available data on efficacy and tolerability of tazarotene 0.045% lotion.

Data Sources

A literature search of MEDLINE (PubMed) and EMBASE databases was completed in November 2021.

Study Selection and Data Extraction

Articles that discussed efficacy, tolerability, and pharmacology of tazarotene 0.045% lotion, written in English and published before mid-November 2021, were assessed.

Data Synthesis

In two, 12-week phase III clinical trials, tazarotene 0.045% lotion had higher rates of treatment success (study 1: 25.5% and study 2: 29.6%) than individuals who received the vehicle (study 1: 13.0% and study 2: 17.3%) (both Ps < 0.001). Participants treated with tazarotene 0.045% lotion had greater least squares mean reduction in inflammatory (study 1: 55.5% and study 2: 59.5%) and noninflammatory (study 1: 51.4% and study 2: 60%) acne lesions when compared with vehicle (inflammatory acne lesions, study 1: 45.7% and study 2:49%; noninflammatory acne lesions, study 1: 41.5% and study 2: 41.6%) ( P < 0.001 for studies 1 and 2). Tazarotene 0.045% lotion was well tolerated.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice

Retinoids are first-line therapy in the treatment of acne vulgaris. However, many patients experience cutaneous irritation, which can decrease patient adherence and efficacy. Tazarotene 0.045% lotion is the first retinoid to utilize polymeric emulsion technology (PET) to efficiently distribute the medication across the skin, decreasing adverse effects while maintaining efficacy.

Conclusions

Tazarotene 0.045% lotion is an effective and well-tolerated retinoid recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating acne vulgaris in individuals 9 years of age and older.
Preservation of cognitive function after brain irradiation
Authors: Surendran Haripriya Parapparambil , Narmadha M P , Kalavagunta Sruthi , Sasidharan Ajay , Dutta Debnarayan
Published: February 2022

Objective

Approximately 50–90% of brain metastatic patients who receive radiation therapy (RT) exhibit cognitive decline which may affects the quality of life of cancer survivors. Hence preservation of cognitive functions in brain metastatic patients becomes important. This review aims to evaluates the pathology or mechanism of cognitive function impairment after brain irradiation and strategies available to preserve cognitive function after radiation therapy.

Data Sources

Published articles evaluating the pathology behind radiation induced cognitive impairment and strategies to resolve or preserve cognitive impairment were searched for in scientific databases (eg: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane database, Google scholar) using keywords including memantine, brain metastases, radiation therapy, pathophysiology, pathogenesis, mechanism and prevention

Data Summary

Several hypotheses have been offered to explain the mechanism of radiation induced cognitive decline. Among them, vascular hypotheses play a significant role. Some pharmacological agents have been also tested in patients receiving radiotherapy, memantine was found beneficial based with the reference to existing data.

Conclusion

Future studies are required to evaluate the impact of memantine in different types of radiation therapy procedures and its effects on quality of life of brain metastatic survivors.
Poor tolerability of lenvatinib in elderly patients ≥80 years old with hepatocellular carcinoma: A multicenter observational study
Authors: Kinoshita Akiyoshi , Hagiwara Noriko , Osawa Akiyuki , Akasu Takafumi , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Ueda Kaoru , Saeki Chisato , Oikawa Tsunekazu , Koike Kazuhiko , Saruta Masayuki
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Management of elderly patients with cancer has become a global issue. We investigated the safety and tolerability of lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients ≥80 years old.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 61 HCC patients and divided them into 2 groups: an elderly group (n = 13, ≥80 years old) and a younger group (n = 48, <80 years old). We compared the adverse events (AEs), administration period, dose intensity, objective response, and progression-free survival (PFS) between the two groups.

Results

The discontinuation of lenvatinib due to AEs was more frequent in the elderly group (8/13, 61.5%) than in the younger group (10/48, 20.8%) (P = 0.0043). Fatigue and appetite loss accounted for half of the cases discontinued due to AEs in the elderly group. The elderly group had a significantly lower 8-week-delivered dose intensity/body surface area ratio (147.2) and 8-week-relative dose intensity (50.0%) than those in the younger group (267.4, 67%) (P = 0.003, 0.029). The objective response rate was significantly lower in the elderly group (15.4%) than in the younger group (61.5%) (P = 0.021). The PFS in the elderly group tended to be shorter than that in the younger group (P = 0.058, hazard ratio [HR] 1.98). The modified albumin-bilirubin (mALBI) grade (hepatic function) (HR, 2.60; P = 0.01) and objective response (HR, 0.41; P = 0.011) were independently associated with the PFS in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

The management of AEs is crucial for adherence and maintaining the dose intensity of lenvatinib in elderly HCC patients.
Reversible Cardiomyopathy after Rituximab Treatment in a Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patient
Authors: Girkar Nishat , Zaki Saba , Pawar Sunita , Dhande Priti
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody that has shown efficacy in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), both as a single agent and in combination with traditional chemotherapies.

Case report

Here, we present a case wherein a 56-year-old man developed dilated cardiomyopathy following one cycle of rituximab and bendamustine chemotherapy protocol used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia. On the fifth day the patient developed hypotensive shock followed closely by the development of cough after two days.

Management and outcome

The patient was started on carvedilol 3.125 mg, ramipril 2.5 mg, and torsemide 5 mg for treatment of cardiomyopathy. Blood transfusion was necessary for hypotensive shock. Antibiotic regimen was started for sepsis and progressive cough. The patient recovered fully from all the symptoms.

Discussion

This case illustrates the potential for cardiomyopathy with rituximab, particularly in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and its proposed mechanisms and treatment. The expanding utility of rituximab impels us to increase monitoring and awareness of this serious cardiovascular adverse effect.
A cost analysis of sorafenib for desmoid tumors
Authors: Johns Michael S , Merritt William T , Rhodes Lori , Ford Candice N , Thompson Mark , Lee William M , Sheldon Yarrow , Petrelli Nicholas J , Tiesi Gregory J
Published: February 2022

Introduction

A recent randomized trial demonstrated that sorafenib improved progression free survival (PFS) in patients with desmoid tumors despite many patients experiencing stable disease or spontaneous regression without treatment. Utilizing these trial data, we performed a cost analysis of sorafenib efficacy through two years of treatment.

Methods

Current Medicare Part D rates for sorafenib were utilized (dose 400 mg/day, cost $309/day). Annual costs per progression and objective response were calculated. Radiologic progression and response were defined using RECIST criteria. Patients with disease progression were separately analyzed in two groups: both clinical and radiologic (CAR), and radiologic alone.

Results

84 previously randomized patients were analyzed (placebo: 35, sorafenib: 49). At one year, sorafenib was associated with a 43% absolute risk reduction (ARR) of CAR progression and number-needed-to-treat (NNT) of 2.3 patients/year, costing $259,406. At two years, ARR was 48% and NNT of 2.1 patients/year, costing $473,697. When evaluating only patients with RECIST defined radiologic progression, sorafenib patients experienced ARR of 13.9% with NNT 7.2 and estimated costs of $812,052 at one year. Two-year ARR was 17.5% with NNT 5.7 and estimated costs $1,285,052. Sorafenib patients experienced improved RECIST partial response rates at 1 and 2 years of 14.7% and 14.3%, with NNT 6.8 and 6.9, and costs of $766,938 and $1,556,433; respectively.

Conclusion

For the treatment of desmoid tumors, Sorafenib led to improved PFS, but at a significant cost per patient. Favorable RECIST outcomes were less likely and costlier. Patients should be informed of possible benefits of treatment versus potential financial burden.
Parenthood as a Window of Opportunity for Dietary Changes: Perspectives From Uruguayan Parents
Authors: Moura Andreia Ferreira , Vidal Leticia , Girona Alejandra , Ares Gastón
Published: February 2022

Research on behavioral and social science has demonstrated that transitions throughout a person’s life course, as the life event of becoming a parent, represent an opportunity for dietary changes. However, research in this area has been mostly restricted to developed European and North American countries and has shown ambiguous results. The present work aimed to gain an in-depth understanding on the changes in eating habits caused by the transition to parenthood and to explore factors influencing those changes in Uruguay, a Latin American country. Forty-two in-depth interviews with Uruguayan parents from diverse social-economic backgrounds were conducted. The narrations by the interviewees evidenced mostly positive changes during three stages in the transition: pregnancy, the first months with the baby, and the beginning of complementary feeding. Most informants perceived changes mainly in terms of increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, and pulses; increased consumption of homemade meals; and decreased consumption of ultra-processed foods, fast foods, and fried foods. Reasons for these changes included adaptation of meals to the child’s needs and schedule, feeling of responsibility for the child’s health, and willingness to be a good role model. Factors influencing changes in eating habits were identified in some levels of the socioecological model and included socioeconomic status; price of fruits, vegetables, and fish; low accessibility of good quality fish; perceived time pressure; father’s low interest on healthy eating; social support; and access to nutrition information. Findings suggest that parenthood represents a window of opportunity for favorable changes in eating habits. However, barriers constraining those changes should be addressed by stakeholders.
Cross-sectional survey of non-invasive indirect blood pressure measurement practices in cats by veterinarians
Authors: Navarro Iliana , Summers Stacie , Rishniw Mark , Quimby Jessica
Published: February 2022

Objectives

This survey of small animal veterinarians endeavored to: (1) determine current methods of indirect blood pressure measurement; (2) detail techniques used to reduce situational hypertension; and (3) better understand the obstacles to performing blood pressure measurement in cats.

Methods

An online survey was produced and circulated to members of the Veterinary Information Network. A total of 733 veterinarians who saw cats in their practice and had access to at least one indirect blood pressure device completed the entirety of the survey.

Results

Ninety-six percent (703/733) of veterinarians who completed the survey reported measuring indirect blood pressure in cats in their practice, with veterinary technicians conducting most (600/703; 85.3%) of these measurements. Few veterinarians (30/733; 4.1%) did not measure blood pressure, with these veterinarians citing several obstacles including: difficulty interpreting results with the occurrence of fear, anxiety and stress in cats (20/30; 66.7%); difficulty performing measurements in cats (17/30; 56.7%); and technical staff being uncomfortable performing measurements (12/30; 40.0%). Most veterinarians (300/435; 69.0%) in this survey preferred an ultrasonic Doppler flow detector with sphygmomanometry, with many (272/300; 90.7%) perceiving that the results obtained with this device were more trustworthy compared with results obtained with oscillometry. Ninety percent (633/703) of veterinarians employed techniques to reduce situational hypertension in cats. Techniques perceived to be most helpful among veterinarians included: using a quiet location (454/633; 71.7%); minimizing restraint (316/633; 49.9%); performing blood pressure prior to other procedures (eg, phlebotomy, cystocentesis) (302/633; 47.7%); avoiding other animals (219/633; 34.6%); and allowing time for acclimation (167/633; 26.4%).

Conclusions and relevance

This survey study of veterinarians helps clarify obstacles to routine blood pressure measurement in conscious cats. Veterinarians reported several strategies that they felt reduced situational hypertension in cats. The data inform modifications of techniques to increase the frequency and perceived reliability of blood pressure measurement in at-risk cats.
Complete recovery of the retinal pigment epithelium layer after spontaneous large serous retinal pigment epithelial tear
Authors: Zhu Zhe , Xiao Jun , Luo Lifu , Yang Bo , Zou He , Zhang Chenchen
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The objective of this study is to report a case of complete recovery of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) layer after spontaneous large serous RPE tear and explore the possible RPE repair mechanism.

Case description

A 63-year-old male patient developed serous detachment of the RPE in the macula of his left eye. During the follow-up period, an oval-shaped RPE tear spontaneously occurred in the macular area, and fundus autofluorescence showed that the torn area was 6.59 mm2. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed that the subretinal fluid had been absorbed and that the continuity of the RPE layer was gradually restored from the periphery to the center over the course of 9 months. Moreover, visual acuity (VA) in the left eye was restored to 20/20, and there was no significant difference in macular function between the two eyes, as measured by multifocal electroretinography, at the last follow-up. In addition, the patient received no special treatment during the entire follow-up period.

Conclusion

The integrity of the RPE layer can be restored completely after extensive RPE tear, and recovered RPE may allow the recovery of macular function.
Determinants of Organic Fertilizers Utilization Among Smallholder Farmers in South Gondar Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Muluneh Mitiku Wale , Talema Getaneh Abebe , Abebe Koyachew Bitew , Dejen Tsegaw Belete , Kassaw Mahider Abere , Teka Mebrat Aschalew
Published: February 2022

Background:

Adoption of organic fertilization is low among farmers in rural areas of Ethiopia, affecting yields and general food security in the region. This study aimed to identify the determinants of the utilization of organic fertilizers among smallholder farmers in the South Gondar Zone, Amhara National Regional State (ANRS), Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was used among smallholder farmers in the South Gondar Zone, ANRS, Northwest Ethiopia. Primary data were collected from 420 sample respondents using multistage sampling with a combination of both simple random and cluster sampling techniques. The binary logistic regression model was used to assess the use of organic fertilizers among smallholder farmers in the South Gondar Zone. The results are presented as adjusted odds ratios (AOR) together with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals.

Results:

head of household age (AOR = 1.099, 95% CI 1.018-1.187), married marital status (AOR = 10.506, 95% CI 1.355-81.427), literate head of household (AOR = 3.323, 95% CI 1.571-7.029), number of laborers (AOR = 1.442, 95% CI 1.060-1.962), farming experience (AOR = 1.132, 95% CI 1.041-1.232), farm size (AOR = 1.063, 95% CI 1.008-1.121), and number of livestock (AOR = 1.368, 95% CI 1.115-1.677) were positively associated with the utilization of organic fertilizer while single marital status (AOR = 0.062, 95% CI 0.004-0.851), cost of laborer (AOR = 0.965, 95% CI 0.951-0.978), household income (AOR = 0.880, 95% CI 0.824-0.939), medium soil fertility (AOR = 0.039, 95% CI 0.007-0.229), fertile soil (AOR = 0.020, 95% CI 0.003-0.120), and home to farm distance (AOR = 0.219, 95% CI 0.067-0.717) were negatively associated with the utilization of organic fertilizer.

Conclusions:

This finding showed that multiple variables have an effect to determining the use of organic fertilizer by smallholder farmers. Therefore, the finding is important to adopt programs to encourage the use of organic fertilizer, implement policies in an attempt to adapt the use of organic fertilizer among the South Gondar Zone, and critically consider these factors. Furthermore, extension workers should focus on raising awareness about the importance of organic fertilizers to encourage or expand their use among smallholder farmers.
The warm expert—A warm teacher? Learning about digital media in intergenerational interaction
Authors: Martínez Carolina , Olsson Tobias
Published: February 2022

The concept warm experts originally referred to people who helped their friends and family to come to terms with home-based computers and Internet connections. As digital technologies have continuously come to permeate our everyday lives, the tasks for warm experts have grown in kinds and character. The present study contributes to our understanding of warm experts by exploring the learning process involving the warm expert and the less knowledgeable other(s). Drawing on interviews with older adults (70 to 94 years of age), the study specifically explores older users’ experiences of learning about digital media with children and grandchildren. The results reveal how interaction with warm experts constituted important learning opportunities for the older adults, in which they developed their skills in using digital media. However, establishing potential learning situations and learning from warm experts was not a straightforward matter, but surrounded by a multitude of barriers structuring the possibilities for learning. This shows how the role of the warm expert is fluid and materializes in different ways in different situations. The warm expert can take the position (or be positioned) as one who solves technical issues. The warm expert can be one who fails in teaching, or one who adopts the position as a warm teacher and contributes to learning among the less knowledgeable user. In order to also be a warm teacher, the warm expert needs to understand the specific learning needs and styles of the less knowledgeable other and adapt to these needs.
When did biopolitics begin? Actuality and potentiality in historical events
Authors: Prozorov Sergei
Published: February 2022

The article addresses the ongoing debate about the origins of biopolitics. While Foucault’s analysis of biopolitics approached it as a modern rationality of government, Agamben’s Homo Sacer series presented biopolitics as having a longer provenance, dating back to the antiquity. These polar positions are not mutually exclusive but coexist in these and other theories of biopolitics, which approach its object as both modern and ancient, having its chronological origin in the eighteenth to nineteenth centuries yet also possessing a prehistory of precursors. The article interprets this dual origin in terms of Paolo Virno’s theory of historical temporality, which distinguishes between the chronological past of historical events and their potential past, which accompanies and is negated in them. Coexisting with its own unrealized potential, every historical event remains incomplete and extends itself both backwards and forwards, positing its precursors and prefiguring its future outcomes. While modern in the chronological sense, biopolitics is retrospectively inscribed in a longer historical lineage, its antecedents easily identifiable in the history of political thought. Finally, we apply this approach to Virno’s own account of the history of biopolitics, questioning his identification of past potential with labour-power.
‘Endorsing a dictatorship and getting paid for it’: Discursive struggles over intimacy and authenticity in the politicisation of influencer collaborations
Authors: Arnesson Johanna
Published: February 2022

Politically motivated criticism of influencer collaborations with certain brands or organisations is a recurring feature on social media today. This article is based on a case study of followers’ reactions to collaborations between two popular Swedish influencers and Visit Dubai, the governmental tourism agency of the United Arab Emirates. Drawing on critical discourse analysis, the article takes a sociocultural approach to influencer marketing and examines how and why politicisation happens in comments to sponsored posts. The analysis focuses on discursive struggles over the construction of political issues and the role of influencers, as well as expressions of perceived interconnectedness and authenticity work among followers. It offers a qualitative understanding of audience perceptions of influencers’ political power and responsibilities, and argues that this is connected to how the role of influencers is constructed – as a friend or as promotional professional.
Innovative technology-enhanced social work service during COVID-19: How ‘Garden on the Balcony’ promoted resilience, community bonds and a green lifestyle
Authors: Wang Yixuan , Gao Qin , Pei Fei , Wang Yi , Cheng Zhen , Zhang Ji , Wu Yang
Published: February 2022

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has motivated social workers to reckon with and transform traditions in service delivery. The development, application, and evaluation of technology-enhanced practices have become more vital than ever. Garden on the Balcony (GOB) was an innovative internet-based social work service designed to respond rapidly to the COVID-19 outbreak in Beijing. This paper introduces the underlying perspectives and design of GOB and reports participants’ reflections on the program to understand its mechanisms and implications. Interview data from GOB participants were collected 4 months after the program ended. Thematic analysis generated three major themes, suggesting that GOB had (a) promoted individual resilience and family cohesion; (b) built online and offline community bonds; and (c) cultivated a green lifestyle and spiritual reflection on life. This study demonstrates a practical example of the effective use of technology-enhanced practice.
Examining early power dynamics within societies to protect children from cruelty
Authors: Zanti Sharon , Cusack Meagan , Choi Hyeri , Stern Mark J
Published: February 2022

This work examines power dynamics at play in the early child-saving movement as illuminated in the case records and annual reports of the Pennsylvania Society to Protect Children from Cruelty (SPCC) from 1878 to 1881 and triangulated with other historical records. 1 We draw on ecological systems theory and urban ecology to examine social and spatial relationships between child-saving institutions, communities, and individuals and families. The paper adapts template analysis for archival research as a replicable approach for studying historical power dynamics embedded in social welfare institutions. This approach highlights the changing role of community members in identifying and responding to neglect and abuse and uncovers common themes that continue to impact the modern child welfare system.
Void of Ethics No More: The Gospel of Mark and New Testament Ethics
Authors: O'Connor John-Patrick
Published: February 2022

The following article offers an overview of studies on the ethics of Mark in the last four decades. A longstanding tradition in biblical studies has been to render the second Evangelist void or nearly void of all ethical interest. Such disparaging conclusions in regard to the apparently ethically vacuous Gospel are representative in the comment by James Leslie Houlden: ‘For [Mark], as for John, it appears that facing and settling moral problems, in the everyday sense, was not a primary concern’ (Houlden, J.L. 1973 Ethics and the New Testament [Harmondsworth: Penguin]: 45). Scholarship on the Gospel of Mark has since turned a corner: a foray of studies has overturned the conclusion by James Houlden and countless others. The following article offers a summary of ethically sensitive studies of the Gospel of Mark with suggestions for further inquiry.
Meaning Making Mechanisms in Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse: A Scoping Review
Authors: van der Westhuizen Monique , Walker-Williams Hayley J. , Fouché Ansie
Published: February 2022

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a complex and prevalent problem with devastating long-term consequences for survivors. Despite these consequences, some survivors seem to find a source of meaning and fulfillment throughout their recovery process, which may facilitate resilience and posttraumatic growth (PTG). However, little is known from the literature about the specific meaning making mechanisms that CSA survivors experience. A scoping review was conducted by searching relevant journals and several online databases such as EbscoHost, Scopus, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Studies published in English and that discussed meaning making as a topic of recovery from CSA in the context of women survivors’ experiences were included, where a total of 57 articles were selected including qualitative ( n = 32), quantitative ( n = 9), mixed method ( n = 9), and review ( n = 7) articles. Using thematic analysis, the results of the scoping review found four mechanisms of meaning making and seven sources of meaning describing the meaning making processes of women survivors of CSA. The mechanisms were identified as being benevolent; restoring and empowering the inner self; mobilizing external and social resources; and lastly actively integrating the trauma narrative. This study contributes toward the global knowledge base on meaning making mechanisms of women survivors of CSA by providing the first known summary of studies to date. Future research is recommended to further confirm these findings to inform treatment interventions for women survivors of CSA.
Isolated Compression of the Recurrent Motor Branch of the Median Nerve: A Case Report
Authors: Vieira de Pádua Maia Maurício , Rosifini Alves Rezende Luis Guilherme
Published: February 2022

Isolated compression of the recurrent motor branch of the median nerve is an uncommon condition encontered in the daily life of the hand surgeon. Its early identification and correction can optimize functional outcomes. Among the few causes described, there are only 2 case reports of compression by fascial bands. We present a case of isolated compression of the recurrent motor branch of the median nerve secondary to anomalous fascial bands in a 34-year-old male patient, with significant atrophy of the thenar musculature of the right hand. Electroneuromyography showed isolated involvement of abductor pollicis brevis, with no sensory changes. The patient underwent exploration and decompression, recovering opposition and thumb function in 6 months.
Long term safety and effectiveness of LVIS Jr for treatment of intracranial aneurysms- a Canadian Multicenter registry
Authors: McEachern James , Iancu Daniela , van Adel Brian , Drake Brian , Kaderali Zul , Spirou Michael , Lesiuk Howard , Weill Alain , Roy Daniel , Raymond Jean , Hadziomerovic Isabel S , Shankar Jai
Published: February 2022

Background

The Low-profile Visible Intraluminal Support device (LVIS Jr) has become a commonly used intracranial stent for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. However long-term stability and effectiveness remains to be seen. The purpose of the study was to assess the long-term efficacy, safety and durability of LVIS Jr. in a retrospective multicenter registry.

Methods

Patients with saccular aneurysms treated at centers across Canada using LVIS Jr for intracranial aneurysms were included in this retrospective registry between the dates of January 2013 and April 2019. Self reported outcomes were collected and used to assess both perioperative and long term safety and effectiveness. Both univariate and multivariate analysis were performed.

Results

Total of 196 patients (132 Women; mean age of 57.6 years) underwent endovascular aneurysm treatment with at least 1 LVIS Jr. stent. Mean aneurysm dome size was 7.4 mm, and mean neck size of 4.3 mm. Mean clinical and imaging follow up were 950 and 899 days respectively. Class I/II was achieved in 85% on long term follow up. Periprocedural morbidity and mortality was 4.6% and 2% and additional delayed morbidity and mortality was 3% and 2.5%. Aneurysm size >10 mm was independent predictor of periprocedural complication (OR 2.59, p = 0.048) while an increased dome to neck ratio >1.5 was independent predictor of increased delayed complications (OR 3.99, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

The LVIS Jr. intracranial stent is an effective device in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Satisfactory long term occlusion rates can be achieved safely with stent-assisted coil embolization.
Mechanical parts picking through geometric properties determination using deep learning
Authors: Lee YJ , Lee SH , Kim DH
Published: February 2022

In this study, a system for automatically picking mechanical parts required in the industrial automation field was proposed. In particular, using deep learning, bolts and nuts were recognized and geometric information of these parts was extracted. By applying YOLOv3 specialized in high recognition rate and fast processing speed, the recognition of target object, location, and postural information were obtained. The geometric information for the bolt can be obtained by creating two bounding boxes and calculating the orientation vector formed by these center values of two bounding boxes after successfully detecting two individual bounding boxes. Moreover, to obtain more precise geometric information on bolts and nuts, image distortion compensation on the detected object was done after detecting the center value of the bolt and nut through YOLOv3. Based on this result, it was proven that an automatic picking of the mechanical parts using a five-axis robot was successfully implemented.
Reporting and discoverability of “Tweets” quoted in published scholarship: current practice and ethical implications
Authors: Mason Shannon , Singh Lenandlar
Published: February 2022

Twitter is an increasingly common source of rich, personalized qualitative data, as millions of people daily share their thoughts on myriad topics. However, questions remain unclear concerning if and how to quote publicly available social media data ethically. In this study, focusing on 136 education manuscripts quoting 2667 Tweets, we look to investigate the ways in which Tweets are quoted, the ethical discussions forwarded and actions taken, and the extent to which quoted Tweets are “discoverable.” A concerning result is that in almost all manuscripts, and for around half of all quoted Tweets, the original author could be identified. Drawing on our findings we share some ethical dilemmas, including those that arise from an apparent lack of understanding of the technical aspects of the platform, and offer suggestions for promoting ethically-informed practice.
Giving medical evidence in court
Authors: Doye Aidan , Metcalfe Neil , Hudson QC Chloe
Published: February 2022

Doctors provide an invaluable role in the justice system. Acting as a witness can be both a beneficial experience for the individual and of importance in representing the profession. This article will explore the different roles doctors play in court and the challenges involved, as well as reviewing current guidance for giving evidence in the courts. Doctors are not only being sued more often, but are also called on more often as expert witnesses in court, and GPs should be aware of this role and the responsibilities involved.
Assessment of Clinical, Tissue, and Cell-Level Metrics Identify Four Biologically Distinct Knee Osteoarthritis Patient Phenotypes
Authors: Mantripragada Venkata P. , Csorba Alexander , Bova Wesley , Boehm Cynthia , Piuzzi Nicolas S. , Bullen Jennifer , Midura Ronald J. , Muschler George F.
Published: February 2022

Objective

Clinical heterogeneity of primary osteoarthritis (OA) is a major challenge in understanding pathogenesis and development of targeted therapeutic strategies. This study aims to (1) identify OA patient subgroups phenotypes and (2) determine predictors of OA severity and cartilage-derived stem/progenitor concentration using clinical-, tissue-, and cell- level metrics.

Design

Cartilage, synovium (SYN) and infrapatellar fatpad (IPFP) were collected from 90 total knee arthroplasty patients. Clinical metrics (patient demographics, radiograph-based joint space width (JSW), Kellgren and Lawrence score (KL)), tissue metrics (cartilage histopathology grade, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)) and cell-based metrics (cartilage-, SYN-, and IPFP-derived cell concentration ([Cell], cells/mg), connective tissue progenitor (CTP) prevalence (PCTP, CTPs/million cells plated), CTP concentration, [CTP], CTPs/mg)) were assessed using k-mean clustering and linear regression model.

Results

Four patient subgroups were identified. Clusters 1 and 2 comprised of younger, high body mass index (BMI) patients with healthier cartilage, where Cluster 1 had high CTP in cartilage, SYN, and IPFP, and Cluster 2 had low [CTP] in cartilage, SYN, and IPFP. Clusters 3 and 4 comprised of older, low BMI patients with diseased cartilage where Cluster 3 had low [CTP] in SYN, IPFP but high [CTP] in cartilage, and Cluster 4 had high [CTP] in SYN, IPFP but low [CTP] in cartilage. Age ( r = 0.23, P = 0.026), JSW ( r = 0.28, P = 0.007), KL ( r = 0.26, P = 0.012), GAG/mg cartilage tissue ( r = −0.31, P = 0.007), and SYN-derived [Cell] ( r = 0.25, P = 0.049) were weak but significant predictors of OA severity. Cartilage-derived [Cell] ( r = 0.38, P < 0.001) and PCTP ( r = 0.9, P < 0.001) were moderate/strong predictors of cartilage-derived [CTP].

Conclusion

Initial findings suggests the presence of OA patient subgroups that could define opportunities for more targeted patient-specific approaches to prevention and treatment.
Automatic Detection of Medial and Lateral Compartments from Histological Sections of Mouse Knee Joints Using the Single-Shot Multibox Detector Algorithm
Authors: Mori Yoshifumi , Oichi Takeshi , Enomoto-Iwamoto Motomi , Saito Taku
Published: February 2022

Objective

Although mouse osteoarthritis (OA) models are widely used, their histological analysis may be susceptible to arbitrariness and inter-examiner variability in conventional methods. Therefore, a method for the unbiased scoring of OA histology is needed. In this study, as the first step for establishing this system, we developed a computer-vision algorithm that automatically detects the medial and lateral compartments of mouse knee sections in a rigorous and unbiased manner.

Design

A total of 706 images of coronal sections of mouse knee joints stained by hematoxylin and eosin, safranin O, or toluidine blue were randomly divided into training and validation images at a ratio of 80:20. A model to detect both compartments automatically was built by machine learning using a single-shot multibox detector (SSD) algorithm with training images. The model was tested to determine whether it could accurately detect both compartments by analyzing the validation images and 52 images of sections stained with Picrosirius red, a method not used for the training images.

Results

The trained model accurately detected both medial and lateral compartments of all 140 validation images regardless of the staining method employed, severity of articular cartilage defects, and the anatomical positions and conditions of the sections. Our model also correctly detected both compartments of 50 of 52 Picrosirius red–stained images.

Conclusions

By applying deep learning based on the SSD algorithm, we successfully developed a model that detects the locations of the medial and lateral compartments of tissue sections of mouse knee joints with high accuracy.