bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Match High-Speed Running Distances Are Often Suppressed After Return From Hamstring Strain Injury in Professional Footballers
Authors: Whiteley Rodney , Massey Andrew , Gabbett Tim , Blanch Peter , Cameron Matthew , Conlan Greta , Ford Matthew , Williams Morgan
Published: November 2020

Background:

High-speed running is commonly implicated in the genesis of hamstring injury. The success of hamstring injury management is typically quantified by the duration of time loss or reinjury rate. These metrics do not consider any loss in performance after returning to play from hamstring injury. It is not known to what extent high-speed running is altered on return to play after such injury.

Hypothesis:

Match high-speed running distance will change after returning from hamstring injury.

Study Design:

Non-randomized cohort.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Match high-speed running distance in highest level professional football (soccer, Rugby League, Rugby Union, and Australian Rules) were examined for a minimum of 5 games prior and subsequent to hamstring strain injury for individual differences using a linear regression models approach. A total of 22 injuries in 15 players were available for analysis.

Results:

Preinjury cumulative high-speed running distances were strongly correlated for each individual ( r2 = 0.92-1.0; P < 0.0001). Pre- and postinjury high-speed running data were available for a median of 15 matches (range, 6-15). Variance from the preinjury high-speed running distance was significantly less ( P = 0.0005) than the post injury values suggesting a suppression of high-speed running distance after returning from injury. On return to play, 7 of the 15 players showed a sustained absolute reduction in preinjury high-speed running distance, 7 showed no change, and 1 player (only) showed an increase. Analysis of subsequent (second and third injury) return to play showed no differences to return from the index injury.

Conclusion:

Return to play was not associated with return to high-speed running performance for nearly half of the players examined, although the same number showed no difference. Persisting deficits in match high-speed running may exist for many players after hamstring strain injury.

Clinical Relevance:

Returning to play does not mean returning to (high-speed running) performance for nearly half of the high-level professional football players examined in this study. This suggests that successful return to play metrics should be expanded from simple time taken and recurrence to include performance.
Neue Produktionskonzepte in einem antiquierten Arbeitsrecht. Wie sich Betriebsräte informell arrangieren
Authors: Oechsler Walter A.
Published: November 2020

Auf der Grundlage des strategischen Human Resource Management-Ansatzes läßt sich die Tendenz zu teamorientierter Produktion erklären, die prägend ist für unsere neue Arbeitswelt. Die damit verbundenen neuen Management- und Produktionskonzepte werden allerdings in einem arbeitsrechtlichen Regelungsrahmen angewandt, der aus der Epoche der stabilen Industriegesellschaft stammt und damit für eine andere Arbeitswelt konzipiert war. Betriebsräte arrangieren sich deshalb informell über neue Partizipationsmuster. Dies sind Ergebnisse aus einem Verbundprojekt „Zur Rolle des mittleren/unteren Management bei neuen Organisations- und Produktionskonzepten”, das vom Bundesministerium für Wissenschaft, Bildung, Forschung und Technologie im Schwerpunkt „Arbeit und Technik” gefördert wurde. Diese Befunde weisen auf eine schleichende Veränderung des arbeitsrechtlichen Regelungsrahmens hin und belegen die Reformbedürftigkeit dieses Regelungsrahmens.
Pathophysiology and potential future therapeutic targets using preclinical models of COVID-19
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Lee Michael H. , Mickael Claudia , Kassa Biruk , Pasha Qadar , Tuder Rubin , Graham Brian
Published: November 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) gains entry into the lung epithelial cells by binding to the surface protein angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. Severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, also known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), can lead to death due to acute respiratory distress syndrome mediated by inflammatory immune cells and cytokines. In this review, we discuss the molecular and biochemical bases of the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and human cells, and in doing so we highlight knowledge gaps currently precluding development of new effective therapies. In particular, discovery of novel treatment targets in COVID-19 will start from understanding pathologic changes based on a large number of autopsy lung tissue samples. Pathogenetic roles of potential molecular targets identified in human lung tissues must be validated in established animal models. Overall, this stepwise approach will enable appropriate selection of candidate therapeutic modalities targeting SARS-CoV2 and the host inflammatory response.
Sex disparities in cystic fibrosis: review on the effect of female sex hormones on lung pathophysiology and outcomes
Authors: Lam Grace Y. , Goodwin Jodi , Wilcox Pearce G. , Quon Bradley S.
Published: November 2020

Sex differences in morbidity and mortality have been reported in the cystic fibrosis (CF) population worldwide. However, it is unclear why CF women have worse clinical outcomes than men. In this review, we focus on the influence of female sex hormones on CF pulmonary outcomes and summarise data fromin vitroandin vivoexperiments on how oestrogen and progesterone might modify mucociliary clearance, immunity and infection in the CF airways. The potential for novel sex hormone-related therapeutic interventions is also discussed.
Predictors of pulmonary rehabilitation completion in the UK
Authors: Stone Philip W. , Hickman Katherine , Steiner Michael C. , Roberts C. Michael , Quint Jennifer K. , Singh Sally J.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Pulmonary rehabilitation has been shown to improve dyspnoea, fatigue, quality of life and exercise capacity in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Our aim was to determine the characteristics of people with COPD associated with completion of pulmonary rehabilitation.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional analysis of 7060 people with COPD enrolled in pulmonary rehabilitation between January 1, 2017 and March 31, 2017. Data were from a UK national audit of COPD care. Factors associated with pulmonary rehabilitation completion were determined using mixed effects logistic regression with a random intercept for pulmonary rehabilitation service. Factors chosen for assessment based on clinical judgement and data availability were age, sex, country, socioeconomic status, body mass index, referral location, programme type, start within 90 days, smoking status, oxygen therapy, Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stage, Medical Research Council (MRC) dyspnoea grade, any exercise test and any health status questionnaire.

Results

4635 (66%) people with COPD completed a pulmonary rehabilitation programme. People that were aged ≥60 years, resident in Wales, referred within 90 days, an ex- or never-smoker, received an exercise test, or received a health status questionnaire had significantly greater odds of completing pulmonary rehabilitation. People that were in the most deprived quintile, underweight or very severely obese, enrolled in a rolling rather than a cohort programme, had a higher GOLD stage and had a higher MRC grade had significantly lower odds of completing pulmonary rehabilitation.

Conclusions

People with COPD were more likely to complete pulmonary rehabilitation when best practice guidelines were followed. People with more severe COPD symptoms and those enrolled in rolling rather than cohort programmes were less likely to complete pulmonary rehabilitation. Referring people with COPD in the earlier stages of disease, ensuring programmes follow best practice guidelines and favouring cohort over rolling programmes could improve rates of pulmonary rehabilitation completion.
Research priorities in α1-antitrypsin deficiency: results of a patients' and healthcare providers' international survey from the EARCO Clinical Research Collaboration
Authors: Barrecheguren Miriam , O'Hara Karen , Wilkens Marion , Boyd Jeanette , Kolda Ewa , Lara Beatriz , Chorostowska-Wynimko Joanna , Ferrarotti Ilaria , Chlumský Jan , Clarenbach Christian , Greulich Timm , Miravitlles Marc , Sucena Maria
Published: November 2020

α1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a rare and under-recognised genetic condition. Owing to its low prevalence, international initiatives are key for conducting high-quality research in the field.

From July 2018 to December 2019, the European Alpha-1 Research Collaboration (EARCO) developed and conducted two surveys, one for healthcare providers and one for patients and caregivers, aiming to identify research priorities and barriers in access to treatment for AATD.

A survey on 164 research questions was electronically sent to 230 AATD experts in Europe, and 94 completed surveys from 24 countries were received. The top research areas identified by healthcare providers were causes of variable progression and poor outcomes, improvement in diagnosis, initiation and optimal dosing of augmentation therapy and effectiveness of self-management interventions. During the same period, 438 surveys were completed by patients and caregivers from 26 countries. The top research areas identified were improving knowledge about AATD, in particular among general practitioners, access to AATD specialised centres and access to reliable, easy to understand information about living with AATD. Regarding barriers to treatment, participants from countries where augmentation therapy was reimbursed prioritised improving knowledge in AATD, while respondents in non-reimbursed countries regarded access to AATD augmentation therapy and to specialised centres as the most relevant.

The main research and management priorities identified by healthcare providers and patients included understanding the natural history of AATD, improving information to physicians, improving access to specialised reference centres, personalising treatment and having equal opportunities for access to existing therapies.
Validity and reliability of the Multidimensional Dyspnoea Profile in older adults
Authors: Hegendörfer Eralda , Doukhopelnikoff Alexander , Degryse Jean-Marie
Published: November 2020

Breathlessness is a common and distressing symptom in older adults and an independent predictor of adverse outcomes and yet its multidimensional assessment has not been validated in older adults. We apply and validate the Multidimensional Dyspnoea Profile (MDP) in a sample of adults 75 years and older in Belgium.

Breathlessness was rated with the MDP, the modified Borg Dyspnoea Scale (mBDS), the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB, a numerical rating scale for intensity and unpleasantness both before and after exertion), as well as with the Medical Research Council (MRC) Dyspnoea Scale. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) assessed the affective status. Factor structure was analysed with exploratory principal components analysis, internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha and concurrent validity with Spearman's correlation coefficients with other breathlessness scales, HADS and SPPB scores.

In 96 participants (mean age 85 years; 34% men) who rated breathlessness at both assessment points, exploratory principal components analysis identified two components: Immediate Perception (IP) and Emotional Reaction (ER), explaining most of the MDP item variance (65.37% before and 71.32% after exertion). Internal consistency was moderate to high for MDP-IP (Cronbach's alpha = 0.86 before and 0.89 after exertion) and MDP-ER (Cronbach's alpha = 0.89 before and 0.91 after exertion). The correlation patterns of MDP-IP and MDP-ER with other tests confirmed concurrent validity.

The domain structure, reliability and concurrent validity of MDP for breathlessness before and after exertion were confirmed in a sample of adults 75 years and older, supporting its use and further research for the multidimensional profiling of breathlessness in older adults.
RICE ACYL-COA-BINDING PROTEIN6 Affects Acyl-CoA Homeostasis and Growth in Rice
Authors: Meng Wei , Xu Lijian , Du Zhi-Yan , Wang Fang , Zhang Rui , Song Xingshun , Lam Sin Man , Shui Guanghou , Li Yuhua , Chye Mee-Len
Published: November 2020

Backgrounds

Acyl-coenzyme A (CoA) esters are important intermediates in lipid metabolism with regulatory properties. Acyl-CoA-binding proteins bind and transport acyl-CoAs to fulfill these functions. RICE ACYL-COA-BINDING PROTEIN6 (OsACBP6) is currently the only one peroxisome-localized plant ACBP that has been proposed to be involved inβ-oxidation in transgenic Arabidopsis. The role of the peroxisomal ACBP (OsACBP6) in rice (Oryza sativa) was investigated.

Results

Here, we report on the function of OsACBP6 in rice. Theosacbp6mutant showed diminished growth with reduction in root meristem activity and leaf growth. Acyl-CoA profiling and lipidomic analysis revealed an increase in acyl-CoA content and a slight triacylglycerol accumulation caused by the loss of OsACBP6. Comparative transcriptomic analysis discerned the biological processes arising from the loss ofOsACBP6. Reduced response to oxidative stress was represented by a decline in gene expression of a group of peroxidases and peroxidase activities. An elevation in hydrogen peroxide was observed in both roots and shoots/leaves ofosacbp6. Taken together, loss of OsACBP6 not only resulted in a disruption of the acyl-CoA homeostasis but also peroxidase-dependent reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis. In contrast,osacbp6-complemented transgenic rice displayed similar phenotype to the wild type rice, supporting a role for OsACBP6 in the maintenance of the acyl-CoA pool and ROS homeostasis. Furthermore, quantification of plant hormones supported the findings observed in the transcriptome and an increase in jasmonic acid level occurred inosacbp6.

Conclusions

In summary, OsACBP6 appears to be required for the efficient utilization of acyl-CoAs. Disruption of OsACBP6 compromises growth and led to provoked defense response, suggesting a correlation of enhanced acyl-CoAs content with defense responses.
Natural food intake patterns have little synchronizing effect on peripheral circadian clocks
Authors: Xie Xiaobin , Kukino Ayaka , Calcagno Haley E. , Berman Alec M. , Garner Joseph P. , Butler Matthew P.
Published: November 2020

Background

Circadian rhythms across mammalian tissues are coordinated by a master clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) that is principally entrained by light-dark cycles. Prior investigations have shown, however, that time-restricted feeding (TRF)—daily alternation of fasting and food availability—synchronizes peripheral clocks independent of the light-dark cycle and of the SCN. This has led to the idea that downstream peripheral clocks are entrained indirectly by food intake rhythms. However, TRF is not a normal eating pattern, and it imposes non-physiologic long fasts that rodents do not typically experience. Therefore, we tested whether normal feeding patterns can phase-shift or entrain peripheral tissues by measuring circadian rhythms of the liver, kidney, and submandibular gland inmPer2Lucmice under different food schedules.

Results

We employed home cage feeders to first measure ad libitum food intake and then to dispense 20-mg pellets on a schedule mimicking that pattern. In both conditions, PER2::LUC bioluminescence peaked during the night as expected. Surprisingly, shifting the scheduled feeding by 12 h advanced peripheral clocks by only 0–3 h, much less than predicted from TRF protocols. To isolate the effects of feeding from the light-dark cycle, clock phase was then measured in mice acclimated to scheduled feeding over the course of 3 months in constant darkness. In these conditions, peripheral clock phases were better predicted by the rest-activity cycle than by the food schedule, contrary to expectation based on TRF studies. At the end of both experiments, mice were exposed to a modified TRF with food provided in eight equally sized meals over 12 h. In the light-dark cycle, this advanced the phase of the liver and kidney, though less so than in TRF with ad libitum access; in darkness, this entrained the liver and kidney but had little effect on the submandibular gland or the rest-activity cycle.

Conclusions

These data suggest that natural feeding patterns can only weakly affect circadian clocks. Instead, in normally feeding mice, the central pacemaker in the brain may set the phase of peripheral organs via pathways that are independent of feeding behavior.
Long-term experimental evolution reveals purifying selection on piRNA-mediated control of transposable element expression
Authors: Bergthorsson Ulfar , Sheeba Caroline J. , Konrad Anke , Belicard Tony , Beltran Toni , Katju Vaishali , Sarkies Peter
Published: November 2020

Background

Transposable elements (TEs) are an almost universal constituent of eukaryotic genomes. In animals, Piwi-interacting small RNAs (piRNAs) and repressive chromatin often play crucial roles in preventing TE transcription and thus restricting TE activity. Nevertheless, TE content varies widely across eukaryotes and the dynamics of TE activity and TE silencing across evolutionary time is poorly understood.

Results

Here, we used experimentally evolved populations ofC. elegansto study the dynamics of TE expression over 409 generations. The experimental populations were evolved at population sizes of 1, 10 and 100 individuals to manipulate the efficiency of natural selection versus genetic drift. We demonstrate increased TE expression relative to the ancestral population, with the largest increases occurring in the smallest populations. We show that the transcriptional activation of TEs within active regions of the genome is associated with failure of piRNA-mediated silencing, whilst desilenced TEs in repressed chromatin domains retain small RNAs. Additionally, we find that the sequence context of the surrounding region influences the propensity of TEs to lose silencing through failure of small RNA-mediated silencing.

Conclusions

Our results show that natural selection inC. elegansis responsible for maintaining low levels of TE expression, and provide new insights into the epigenomic features responsible.
Correction to: “We can’t carry the weight of the whole world”: Illness experiences among Peruvian older adults with symptoms of depression and anxiety
Authors: Flores-Flores Oscar , Zevallos-Morales Alejandro , Carrión Ivonne , Pawer Dalia , Rey Lorena , Checkley William , Hurst John R. , Siddharthan Trishul , Parodi Jose F. , Gallo Joseph J. , Pollard Suzanne L.
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
On the weighted fractional Pólya–Szegö and Chebyshev-types integral inequalities concerning another function
Authors: Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Rahman Gauhar , Baleanu Dumitru , Samraiz Muhammad , Iqbal Sajid
Published: November 2020

The primary objective of this present paper is to establish certain new weighted fractional Pólya–Szegö and Chebyshev type integral inequalities by employing the generalized weighted fractional integral involving another function Ψ in the kernel. The inequalities presented in this paper cover some new inequalities involving all other type weighted fractional integrals by applying certain conditions on$\omega (\theta )$ω(θ)and$\Psi (\theta )$Ψ(θ). Also, the Pólya–Szegö and Chebyshev type integral inequalities for all other type fractional integrals, such as the Katugampola fractional integrals, generalized Riemann–Liouville fractional integral, conformable fractional integral, and Hadamard fractional integral, are the special cases of our main results with certain choices of$\omega (\theta )$ω(θ)and$\Psi (\theta )$Ψ(θ). Additionally, examples of constructing bounded functions are also presented in the paper.
Infection Prevalence in Adolescents and Adults With Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treated in an Indian Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Jain Hasmukh , Rengaraj Karthik , Sharma Vibhor , Bonda Avinash , Chanana Raajit , Thorat Jayashree , Ronghe Ashwini , Biswas Sanjay , Nayak Lingaraj , Tembhare Prashant , Subramnian Papagudi , Shetty Dhanalaxmi , Patkar Nikhil , Bagal Bhausaheb , Sengar Manju
Published: November 2020

PURPOSE

Infections remain a major challenge in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Induction-related mortality reported in the literature is approximately < 5% in clinical trials. However, the real-world scenario is different, especially in developing countries, given the high incidence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms, high incidence of fungal pneumonia at baseline, and significant delay before initiation of chemotherapy. We aimed to look at contemporary infections and infection-related mortality and analyze the patterns of infections.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted at a large tertiary care oncology center in India. Patients with newly diagnosed AML who were older than age 15 years, considered fit for intensive therapy, and treated in the general wards of the adult hematolymphoid unit from March 1, 2014, until December 31, 2015, were included.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-one patients were treated during the study period. The most common presenting complaint was fever (85%). The focus of infection at presentation was found in 63% of patients, with respiratory infection being the most common (47%). MDR organisms were isolated in 55% of patients during induction from various foci. Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common blood culture isolate (42.9%). Fungal pneumonia was diagnosed in 55% of patients during induction despite antifungal prophylaxis. Treatment-related mortality was 10.7% in all phases, with an induction mortality rate of 7.4%. Complete remission was attained in 69% of patients. Of all patients who received induction chemotherapy, 74% completed all three consolidation cycles. The 121 patients were followed up for a median period of 53 months. Four-year event-free survival was 35.8%, and 4-year overall survival was 41.5%.

CONCLUSION

Infections and infection-related mortality are major challenges during AML induction. Gram-negative MDR and fungal infections are particularly common in our region.
Educational Status, Cancer Stage, and Survival in South India: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Mathew Aleyamma , George Preethi Sara , Kunnambath Ramadas , Mathew Beela Sarah , Kumar Aswin , Syampramod Roshni , Booth Christopher M.
Published: November 2020

PURPOSE

Lower socioeconomic status is associated with more advanced cancer at the time of cancer diagnosis. It is unknown whether this leads to inferior survival in low- and middle-income countries. Here, we explore the association between educational level and survival in South India.

METHODS

The Trivandrum Cancer Registry (3.3 million population) was used to identify all cases of breast and cervical cancer (women) and oral cavity (OC) and lung cancer (men) diagnosed during 2012-2014. Educational level was classified as illiterate/primary school, middle school, and secondary school and above. Survival was measured from date of diagnosis using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox proportional hazards regression modeling was used to describe the associations among education, stage of cancer at diagnosis, and survival.

RESULTS

The study population included 3,640 patients with breast (n = 1,727), cervical (n = 425), OC (n = 702), and lung (n = 786) cancer. Educational level was 27%, 23%, and 32% for illiterate/primary, middle, and secondary school and above, respectively. The 5-year survival rate for breast cancer was 59%, 68%, and 73% ( P = .001); for cervical cancer, 51%, 52%, and 60% ( P = .146); and for OC cancer, 42%, 35%, and 48% ( P = .012) for illiterate/primary, middle school, and secondary school and above, respectively. The survival gradient across social groups was substantially attenuated when stage was added to the multivariable model. There was no observed difference in survival across educational groups for lung cancer (2%, 4%, and 3%; P = .224).

CONCLUSION

Data from this population-based study in South India demonstrate that patients from a lower educational background have inferior survival and that this is at least partially explained by having more advanced disease at the time of diagnosis. Public health efforts are needed to facilitate timely diagnosis and reduce disparities in cancer outcomes.
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Analogue Stimulation Test Versus Venous Sampling in Postmenopausal Hyperandrogenism
Authors: Tng Eng-Loon , Tan Jeanne May May
Published: November 2020

Postmenopausal hyperandrogenism can be due to excessive androgen secretion from adrenal or ovarian virilizing tumors or nonneoplastic conditions. The etiology of postmenopausal hyperandrogenism can be difficult to discern because of limited accuracy of current diagnostic tests. This systematic review compares the diagnostic accuracy of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue stimulation test against selective ovarian and adrenal vein sampling of androgens in distinguishing neoplastic from nonneoplastic causes of postmenopausal hyperandrogenism. Diagnostic test accuracy studies on these index tests in postmenopausal women were selected based on preestablished criteria. The true positive, false positive, false negative, and true negative values were extracted and meta-analysis was conducted using the hierarchical summary receiver operator characteristics curve method. The summary sensitivity of the GnRH analogue stimulation test is 10% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1%-46.7%) and that for selective venous sampling is 100% (95% CI, 0%-100%). Both tests have 100% specificity. There is limited evidence for the use of either test in identifying virilizing tumors in postmenopausal hyperandrogenism.
The second pharyngeal pouch is generated by dynamic remodeling of endodermal epithelium in zebrafish
Authors: Okada Kazunori , Takada Shinji
Published: November 2020

Pharyngeal arches (PAs) are segmented by endodermal outpocketings called pharyngeal pouches (PPs). Anterior and posterior PAs appear to be generated by different mechanisms, but it is unclear how the anterior and posterior PAs combine. Here, we addressed this issue with precise live imaging of PP development and cell tracing of pharyngeal endoderm in zebrafish embryos. We found that two endodermal bulges are initially generated in the future second PP (PP2) region, which separates anterior and posterior PAs. Subsequently, epithelial remodeling causes contact between these two bulges, resulting in the formation of mature PP2 with a bilayered morphology. The rostral and caudal bulges develop into the operculum and gill, respectively. Development of the caudal PP2 and more posterior PPs is affected by impaired retinoic acid signaling or pax1a/b dysfunction, suggesting that the rostral front of posterior PA development corresponds to the caudal PP2. Our study clarifies an aspect of PA development that is essential for generation of a seamless array of PAs in zebrafish.
3D quantification of changes in pancreatic islets in mouse models of diabetes type I and II
Authors: Roostalu Urmas , Lercke Skytte Jacob , Gravesen Salinas Casper , Klein Thomas , Vrang Niels , Jelsing Jacob , Hecksher-Sørensen Jacob
Published: November 2020

Diabetes is characterized by rising levels of blood glucose and is often associated with a progressive loss of insulin-producing beta cells. Recent studies have demonstrated that it is possible to regenerate new beta cells through proliferation of existing beta cells or trans-differentiation of other cell types into beta cells, raising hope that diabetes can be cured through restoration of functional beta cell mass. Efficient quantification of beta cell mass and islet characteristics is needed to enhance drug discovery for diabetes. Here, we report a 3D quantitative imaging platform for unbiased evaluation of changes in islets in mouse models of type I and II diabetes. To determine whether the method can detect pharmacologically induced changes in beta cell volume, mice were treated for 14 days with either vehicle or the insulin receptor antagonist S961 (2.4 nmol/day) using osmotic minipumps. Mice treated with S961 displayed increased blood glucose and insulin levels. Light-sheet imaging of insulin and Ki67 (also known as Mki67)-immunostained pancreata revealed a 43% increase in beta cell volume and 21% increase in islet number. S961 treatment resulted in an increase in islets positive for the cell proliferation marker Ki67, suggesting that proliferation of existing beta cells underlies the expansion of total beta cell volume. Using light-sheet imaging of a non-obese diabetic mouse model of type I diabetes, we also characterized the infiltration of CD45 (also known as PTPRC)-labeled leukocytes in islets. At 14 weeks, 40% of the small islets, but more than 80% of large islets, showed leukocyte infiltration. These results demonstrate how quantitative light-sheet imaging can capture changes in individual islets to help pharmacological research in diabetes.
Modification of the ZnO(0001) Surface by Adsorption of Hydrogen Atoms
Authors: Roy Probir Chandra , Khan Sher Ali , Kim Chang Min
Published: November 2020

The electronic and chemical properties of ZnO surfaces are greatly affected by the adsorption of H atoms. The interaction of H atoms with ZnO(0001) and ZnO(000-1) surfaces has been investigated by temperature programmed desorption (TPD) methods. When the ZnO(000-1) surface is exposed to atomic H at 200 K, one desorption peak of H2 is observed at 455 K (α-peak). In the case of ZnO(0001), two desorption peaks of H2 are observed at 255 K (γ-peak) and 455 K (α-peak). As H exposure increases, the intensity of the γ-peak increases as the α-peak is attenuated. The α-peak is assigned as the hydrogen adsorbed on O-sites and the γ-peak is attributed to hydrogen adsorbed on Zn clusters on ZnO. Zn clusters are produced only on the ZnO(0001) surface as surface O-H bonds are formed.
Traumatic Primary Anterior Glenohumeral Joint Dislocation in Sports: A Systematic Review of Operative versus Nonoperative Management
Authors: Kraeutler Matthew J. , Belk John Wilson , Carver Trevor J. , McCarty Eric C. , Khodaee Morteza
Published: November 2020

Anterior shoulder (glenohumeral joint [GHJ]) dislocations are relatively common injuries in sports. Previous studies have evaluated clinical outcomes of operative and nonoperative management for primary traumatic anterior GHJ dislocations. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature in an effort to provide a thorough analysis of patients after undergoing closed reduction of a traumatic anterior GHJ dislocation, particularly among the athletic population. Two independent reviewers performed a comprehensive search of PubMed and the Cochrane Library through February 23, 2020. Unfortunately, the quantity and quality of published articles on this subject is very limited. In many studies, younger age (between 21 and 30 years) was associated with greater risk for recurrence of GHJ dislocations. Twelve studies (totalN= 753) directly compared outcomes of operative versus nonoperative management. It seems that operative management significantly reduces recurrence rates with patients treated operatively among the young and active population. Operative management should be considered as a treatment option for young and athletic patients presenting with a first-time anterior GHJ dislocation.
Enthesopathy—An Underappreciated Role in Osteoarthritis?
Authors: Greif Dylan N. , Emerson Christopher P. , Jose Jean , Toumi Hechmi , Best Thomas M.
Published: November 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) continues to be a debilitating disease worldwide, to date, no therapies have been definitely proven to modify disease progression or moderate symptom relief long term other than joint replacement. A contributing factor may be the lack of attention to the potential role of the periarticular enthesis and development and progression of OA. The enthesis is the site of attachment for a tendon, ligament, or joint capsule to the bony skeleton, thereby allowing centralized transmission and dissipation of mechanical loads. Because of this design, the enthesis is a site of stress concentration subject to inflammation during sports-related activities or spondyloarthropathies, which may lead to long-term degeneration. Our hypothesis is that functional incompetence of the enthesis resulting from either degenerative or inflammatory changes could be an initiating factor for OA and may thus provide a novel basis for the development of future disease management in this phenotype of patients.
Interim Guidance on the Preparticipation Physical Examination for Athletes During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic
Authors: Diamond Alex B. , Narducci Dusty Marie , Roberts William O. , Bernhardt David T. , LaBella Cynthia R. , Moffatt Kody A. , Nuti Rathna , Powell Amy P. , Rooks Yvette L. , Zaremski Jason L.
Published: November 2020

The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) convened a writing group to address the current evidence and knowledge gaps regarding preparticipation evaluation of athletes during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The writing group held a series of meetings beginning in April 2020. The task force reviewed the available literature and used an iterative process and expert consensus to finalize this guidance statement that is intended to provide clinicians with a clinical framework to return athletes of all levels to training and competition during the pandemic. The statement is not intended to address treatment, infection control principles, or public health issues related to SARS-CoV-2. The AMSSM task force acknowledges the clinical uncertainty, evolving public health objectives, and the limited data currently available to create this guidance statement.
Incidental findings associated with magnetic resonance imaging of the brachial plexus
Authors: Perumal Antonia R , Anyamele Ugonna Angel , Bhogal Rayna K , McCauley Gordon , Teh Irvin , Bourke Grainne , Rankine James J , Wade Ryckie George
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The identification and management of incidental findings is becoming increasingly problematic, particularly in relation to brachial plexus imaging because the prevalence is unknown. Therefore, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of incidental findings in symptomatic patients undergoing MRI of the brachial plexus.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study included all children and adults who underwent MRI over a 12-year period, in a tertiary care centre in the UK. An incidental finding was any abnormality which was not a direct injury to or disease-process of the brachial plexus. An “incidentaloma” was defined by the need for further investigation or treatment. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) of an “incidentaloma”. To estimate which factors were associated with the incident rate ratio (IRR) of incidental findings, multivariable Poisson regression was used.

Results:

Overall, 502 scans (72%) reported incidental anomalies. Although the number of MRIs performed per annum increased by 23%, the prevalence of “incidentalomas” remained static (p = 0.766). Musculoskeletal incidental findings were the most prevalent (63%) and when identified, there were a median of 3 incidental anomalies per patient. Overall, 125 (18%) anomalies were “incidentalomas” which required further investigation or treatment. The odds of having further investigation or treatment was strongly related to the frequency of incidental findings [adjusted OR 1.16 (95% CI 1.08, 1.24)] and when a tumour was identified [adjusted OR 2.86 (95% CI 1.81, 4.53)]. The number of incidental findings recorded per scan increased when trainees co-reported with consultants [adjusted IRR 0.36 (95% CI 0.05, 0.67)] and in the presence of a tumour [adjusted IRR 0.39 (95% CI 0.28, 0.49)]

Conclusions:

The prevalence of clinically important incidental findings on brachial plexus MRI is lower than organ-specific imaging, but still 18% of scans identified an ‘incidentaloma’ which required further investigation or treatment.

Advances in knowledge:

This cohort study shows that approximately 1 in 5 symptomatic patients undergoing a brachial plexus MRI had a clinically important incidental findings, which required further investigation or treatment. This information can be used to inform patients consenting to clinical or research imaging.
Byzantine families in Venetian context: The Gavalas and Ialinas family in Venetian Crete (XIIIth-XIVth centuries)
Authors: ΓΑΣΠΑΡΗΣ Χαράλαμπος
Published: November 2020

Βυζαντινές οικογένειες σε βενετικό περιβάλλον: Οι οικογένειες Γαβαλά και Γιαλινά στη βενετική Κρήτη (13ος-14ος αι.)Οι στρατηγικές των μεγάλων βυζαντινών/ελληνικών οικογενειών στη βενετική Κρήτη κατά τον 13ο και 14ο αι. είχαν ως πρωταρχικό στόχο τη διατήρηση ή και την ισχυροποίησή τους στο νέο πολιτικό, κοινωνικό και οικονομικό περιβάλλον. Αν εξαιρέσουμε τον πλέον δυναμικό τρόπο επίτευξης του στόχου αυτού, δηλαδή τις επαναστάσεις, τότε οι κύριες στρατηγικές ήταν από τη μια οι επιγαμίες τόσο μεταξύ των οικογενειών αυτών όσο και με τις νέες βενετικές οικογένειες, και από την άλλη η αστική οικονομική δραστηριότητα. Με τον τρόπο αυτό κατόρθωσαν να διατηρήσουν ή και να ενισχύσουν την έγγειο ιδιοκτησία τους, καθώς και να αυξήσουν τον πλούτο τους. Οι ελληνικές οικογένειες επέδειξαν την απαραίτητη προσαρμοστικότητα, αν και όχι όλες στον ίδιο βαθμό. Έτσι, δεν μπορούμε να μιλάμε για ενιαία στρατηγική των μεγάλων ελληνικών οικογενειών, αλλά για στρατηγικές που υιοθετούνται από κάθε ελληνική οικογένεια ξεχωριστά, ή ακόμη και από έναν κλάδο της ίδιας οικογένειας.
Of false philosophers and inept teachers: Theodore Prodromos’ satirical writings (with a translation of the poem Against the old man with a long beard).
Authors: MARCINIAK Przemyslaw T.
Published: November 2020

Ψευδοφιλόσοφοι και Αδαείς Δάσκαλοι:Τα Σατιρικά Κείμενα του Θεοδώρου ΠροδρόμουΟρισμένα από τα σατιρικά κείμενα του Θεοδώρου Προδρόμου (όπωςο Φιλοπλάτων, ο Αμαθής, ή το ποίημα κατά μακρογενείου γέροντος)μπορούν να θεωρηθούν ως οι διδακτικές του προγραμματικές δηλώσεις.Επιπλέον δείχνουν πώς αντιλαμβανόταν ο Πρόδρομος την «ὑπόκρισιν»,να προσποιείται δηλαδή κάποιος ότι είναι ένας άλλος.
Condicionantes da desigualdade no acesso ao mercado laboral e remuneração em profissionais da saúde do Peru
Authors: Pacovilca Alejo Olga Vicentina , Zea Montesinos César Cipriano , Reginaldo Huamaní Rafael , Guerra Olivares Tula Susana , Ordóñez Ccora Gabriela , Pacovilca Alejo Gelber Sebasti , Quispe Ilanzo Melisa Pamela , Oyola García Alfredo Enrique
Published: November 2020

Introdução: O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar os fatores condicionantes da desigualdade no acesso ao mercado laboral e remuneração nos profissionais da saúde do Peru. Materiais e métodos: se realizou um estudo observacional baseado na análise secundária dos principais resultados do Inquérito Nacional de Graduados Universitários e Universidades, 2014 com uma amostra de 1974 profissionais da saúde submetida a expansão para realizar o cálculo de qui-quadrado, odds ratio cru (ORC) e odds ratio ajustado (ORA) mediante regressão logística, com seus intervalos de confiança ao 95%. Resultados: existiu maior risco de desocupação em mulheres (ORA: 1,574; IC95%: 1,456-1,702), de universidades públicas (ORA: 1,137; ic95%: 1,068-1,210) oo localizadas em províncias diferentes a Lima e Callao (ORA: 1,552; IC95%: 1,452-1,661). A auto-identificação como mestiços (ORA: 0,704; IC95%: 0,621-0,798), quéchuas (ORA: 0,653; IC95%: 0,556-0,767), aymaras (ORA: 0,679; IC95%: 0,511-0,902) e outros (ORA: 0,549; ic95%: 0,432-0,698) teve um efeito protetor frente ao desemprego. As mulheres (ORA: 1,580; IC95%: 1,484-1,682), os quéchuas (ORA: 1,259; IC95%: 1,092-1,451) e os graduados de universidades localizadas fora de Lima e Callao (ORA: 2,601; IC95%: 2,455-2,756) apresentaram maior risco de remuneração inferior aos 1000 soles; em contraste, a graduação de uma universidade pública (ORA: 0,784; IC95%: 0,744-0,828) diminuiu a probabilidade de remuneração menor a 1000 soles. Conclusões: o sexo, a etnia, o centralismo e o nível socioeconômico estariam condicionando a desigualdade no mercado laboral apesar do maior nível de instrução obtido pelos profissionais de saúde.
Mental health nurses' confidence in applying pharmacological knowledge: a survey
Authors: Sanjeevi Sujatha , Cocoman Angela
Published: November 2020

Background/Aims

The literature highlights gaps on how nurses apply pharmacology knowledge to their medication management, particularly in relation to knowledge on the mechanism of action and drug interactions. The aim of this study was to research a sample of mental health nurses to explore their confidence, knowledge and skills in applying their pharmacological knowledge.

Methods

A paper-based survey questionnaire was distributed to 209 mental health nurses working in direct patient care in Ireland. A total of 129 completed the questionnaire with a response rate of 61.7%.

Results

The vast majority of mental health nurses were confident in their knowledge of pharmacological principles to medication management, in relation to dosage, formulation, adverse effects, and predictable side effects, including patient education and medication information. Nurses were less confident in their knowledge of pharmacodynamics related to their knowledge on the mechanism of action, and on the pharmacokinetics of drug clearance. This may negatively impact on their ability to educate patients about their medications.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that there is need for an increased focus on continuing education on pharmacology for nurses at service level, particularly on the mechanism of action and clearance of commonly used medications in order for nurses to more effectively support patients to manage their medications.
Understanding aggressive behaviour in patients with schizophrenia through social cognitive theory: a narrative literature review
Authors: Ndoro Samuel
Published: November 2020

Background/Aims

Studies have shown that some people diagnosed with schizophrenia are more predisposed to distress than others because of positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, leading to aggressive and violent behaviour. Moreover, there is no conclusive evidence to substantiate the reasons for the causes of aggression and what suitable interventions can be used. The aim of this study was to explore evidence-based literature through social cognitive theory to find effective strategies to manage aggression among patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Methods

A background literature review search was conducted from the following databases: Medline, Cinhal and PsychInfo. The Boolean operator OR was used to search for Aggression OR Violence OR Cognitive theory OR Interventions OR Mental illness OR Schizophrenia OR Self-control OR Self-efficacy OR Social learning theory. Suitable papers were hand searched and seven papers were selected.

Results

Research studies are in favour of social cognitive interventions to manage aggression in patients with schizophrenia as they have fewer side effects and can be used alongside other pharmacological interventions as the second line of treatment. However, findings from these studies should be viewed with caution, resulting from the contradiction that still exists in whether psychotic symptoms are correlated to aggression and violent behaviours among patients with schizophrenia.

Conclusions

Social cognitive models can enable health care professionals to explore the causes of aggression from a broad perspective, using appropriate risk assessment tools to design appropriate strategies.
The Great War: letters from mental nurses
Authors: Nolan Peter
Published: November 2020

Peter Nolan delves into the past and highlights letters sent to and from various staff members at the York Retreat during the First World War
Developing a successful marketing plan: making a real difference in a care home setting
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: November 2020

One of the impacts of COVID-19 has been a negative shift in public opinion towards residential and care home settings. Adrian Ashurst discusses the importance of implementing an excellent marketing plan during these difficult times.
Supporting residents at risk of self-harm and suicide
Authors: Mendes Aysha
Published: November 2020

Maintaining good mental health has become a high-priority topic of discussion, but guidance around an emergency situation is still lacking. Continuing her column on mental health in care homes, Aysha Mendes offers some effective and practical solutions to help care professionals and residents.
Electronic care planning and care worker engagement
Authors: Brittain Graham
Published: November 2020

In the wider context of the advancement of digital technologies in healthcare, electronic care planning and recording systems are becoming increasingly prevalent in social care settings in the UK. At the same time, the engagement of employees is an important concern for senior managers of these services, where turnover rates are high and human resources are often scarce. This study researches the impact upon employees of the implementation of electronic care planning in two organisations running multiple social care services. Following a review of technology acceptance and engagement literature, hypothesised developments of technology enhanced engagement and concomitant increases in motivation, empowerment and productivity are researched. An exploratory sequential mixed methods approach is utilised, bringing together qualitative and quantitative data for analysis.

Findings suggest that care planning technology produces a positive engagement impact, broadly confirming the hypotheses. Overall workforce engagement of both organisations studied is shown to be very high. Correlation analysis shows that, while not all employees recognise the engagement impact of the care planning technology, those who do also demonstrate the highest levels of motivation, empowerment and productivity. Demographic differences are evaluated as moderating influences, but are not found to be highly significant in this study.

This is a cross-sectional short-range study, and recommendations for future longer-range and broader research are considered. In the light of the indicated engagement benefit of electronic care planning technology, implications for managers of services, application developers and social care workers are considered.
Investigating In-service Science Teachers Conceptions of Astronomy, and Determine the Obstacles in Teaching Astronomy in Thailand
Authors: Jansri Sopita , Ketpichainarong Watcharee
Published: November 2020

Astronomy concept is regarded as one difficult topic in both teachers’ and students’ perspective even though it strongly appeals to the human mind. This concept requires imagination and the ability to use various skills and knowledge, for example, actual motion, relative position, and coordination of views from several points on the Earth to generate an explanation.  As mentioned in the literature, the teacher plays a vital role in the teaching and learning process. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate 45 in-service science teachers’ understanding of astronomy concepts in a professional development program and to diagnose the misconceptions regarding astronomy concepts. A two-tier test, open-ended questions, and a semi-structured interview were used to gather information on the understanding and misconceptions, particularly on celestial motion concepts. The data were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. The results pointed out that after the four-day professional development program, in-service science teachers gained significantly higher two-tier test scores. The highest progression was in the topic of the Sun’s apparent motion. However, most in-service science teachers still held some misconceptions relating to the concept of the seasons. The obstacles in teaching astronomy were also discussed. The study’s findings lead to the improvement of the professional development program for in-service science teachers required to teach astronomy concepts nationwide.