bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The roles of life stress and preventive health behaviors on parent mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Liu Cindy H , Smiley Patricia A , Vicman Jessica M , Wong Ga Tin Finneas , Doan Stacey N
Published: June 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted millions of lives, with life stress and daily hassles having a potential impact on parent mental health. This study examined whether preventive health behaviors (e.g. social distancing, mask wearing) and social support relate to parent mental health. In a cross-sectional analysis of parents ( N = 176, May–September 2020), life events and daily hassles were positively associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms. Preventive health behaviors moderated the association between daily hassles and depressive symptoms. Preventive health behaviors may protect those with high levels of daily hassles from moderate levels of depression.
Emancipatory struggles and their political organisation: How political parties and social movements respond to changing notions of emancipation
Authors: Butzlaff Felix
Published: June 2021

In this article, I address the ways in which debates in liberal, (post)Marxist and postmodernist social theory have remoulded readings of emancipation – and how these reformulations have affected the organisation of emancipatory struggles by and in political parties and social movements. I focus on three conceptual ambiguities that have spurred theoretical disputes and restructured organisational imaginations of emancipation: who might struggle for liberation, to what end and in which ways. In all three respects, understandings of emancipation have become increasingly individualised, contingent and process-oriented – both in theory and in its political-organisational correspondents. As a consequence, effective collective struggles for autonomy may become ever more difficult to organise. While occurring in the name of further liberation, the ongoing reinterpretation of emancipation and its impact on the political organisation of emancipatory struggles might in the end hamper or even undermine the very liberation and autonomy they had aimed to promote.
Emancipation in the Anthropocene: Taking the dialectic seriously
Authors: Dobson Andrew
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this article is to articulate a conception of emancipation for the Anthropocene. First, the Kantian roots of emancipation understood as the capacity of rational beings to act according to self-chosen ends are explained. It is shown that this conception of emancipation sets the realm of autonomous beings humans over the realm of heteronomous beings. Accounts of the ‘humanisation of nature’ are analysed as incomplete attempts to overcome this dualism. It is argued that the root of this incompleteness lies in the application of analytical rather than dialectical reason to the human–nature interaction. The Anthropocene is presented as the geological–historical moment when at the same time as nature is being humanised, humans are being made aware of themselves as animal. This gives way to a conception of Anthropocene emancipation which will be described in a fourth section. The article concludes with reflections on COVID-19 as a ‘disease of the Anthropocene’ and as an opportunity reflexively, and at unprecedented scale, to internalise our heteronomy and to live an emancipation fit for a terraforming species.
Information sources about face-to-face meetings with people from the Internet: Gendered influence on adolescents’ risk perception and behavior
Authors: Mýlek Vojtěch , Dedkova Lenka , Smahel David
Published: June 2021

Adolescents commonly make new social connections online that sometimes result in face-to-face meetings. Despite potential benefits, risk-focused discourse dominates public debates and shapes information shared by sources important for adolescents—news media, preventive programs, peers, parents, and teachers. Our study examines how information about face-to-face meetings from these sources relates to adolescents’ risk perception and engagement in such meetings. Using a sample of 707 Czech adolescents (aged 11–16 years, 46% male), we analyzed these effects for male and female adolescents to reflect the gendered nature of the risk-focused discourse. Male adolescents’ risk perception was not affected by information from any source. Female adolescents’ risk perception was negatively affected by information peers with prior experience with face-to-face meetings but not by other information sources. Female adolescents also perceived face-to-face meetings as riskier in general. We discuss gender differences and the limited impact of information sources on risk perception and provide practical recommendations.
Esparto crafting under empire: Local technology and imperial industry in Roman Iberia
Authors: Gosner Linda R
Published: June 2021

Drawing on scholarship in postcolonial archaeology that emphasizes the place of indigenous technology in colonial and imperial contexts, this article explores the role of local communities in esparto grass weaving and basketry in the southeast Iberian Peninsula in antiquity. Esparto crafting became essential to Phoenician and Carthaginian colonial economies of the 1st millennium BCE and, later, to the production equipment for mining and other industries under Roman imperial rule. This paper uses ethnographic studies alongside archaeological evidence of esparto objects, particularly esparto mining equipment, to reconstruct the chaîne opératoire of ancient esparto crafting. It argues that local communities developed landscape learning and tactile technical knowledge surrounding esparto crafting over many generations. In supplying equipment essential to Roman mining, these communities used their technical knowledge to maintain agency and construct their identities under imperial rule. Ultimately, understanding esparto crafting helps elucidate the relationship between resources, technology, and imperial or colonial encounters.
The use of a bespoke website developed for people with dementia and carers: Users’ experiences, perceptions and support needs
Authors: Wolverson Emma , White Caroline , Dunn Rosie , Cunnah Katie , Howe David , Paulson Kevin , Platt Rebecca , Thorpe Jonathan
Published: June 2021

Background: Current policy emphasises the role of digital technologies in facilitating the management of long-term conditions. While digital resources have been developed for carers, there has been little attention to their development for people with dementia. The Caregiverspro-MMD website was developed as a joint resource for people with dementia and carers, delivering access to information, informal content, games and peer support. Research Design and Methods: This study explored the experiences of dyads consisting of people with dementia and carers of using the website. Interviews and focus groups were conducted with 43 participants. Findings: Thematic analysis identified 10 subthemes grouped under three superordinate themes which highlight participants’ experiences of and responses to the website functions; important aspects of the website design and delivery; and barriers to use. Discussion: Findings highlight the value of a credible information source which negated the need for arduous online searches, the pleasure associated with playing games and interacting with others online. However, participants were reluctant to share personal information online, preferring to create ‘informal content’ which celebrated everyday life, and were reluctant to ‘friend’ people online who they had not met in person. The importance of training and support to use the website was highlighted. Health problems, lack of interest or difficulties using technology, and time were all identified as barriers to use.
Investigating the influence of carbon nanotube on the performance of asphalt binder
Authors: Shah Peerzada Mosir , Mir Mohammad Shafi
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study aims at investigating the impact of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT’s) on the properties of low viscosity grade asphalt binder. Asphalt binder with viscosity grade-10 is selected as the control binder and later it is modified with different percentages of MWCNT’s (0.5–2.5%). Penetration, softening point, ductility and rotational viscosity test were employed for evaluating the effect of MWCNT’s on basic physical properties of modified asphalt binder. Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) is used for evaluating the rheological properties of the base and modified bitumen, for both aged and unaged bitumen. Based on the conventional and basic rheological tests, it was seen that the addition of MWCNT’s improved the high-temperature performance of modified bitumen. Multiple Stress Creep and Recovery (MSCR) test results revealed that the addition of MWCNT’s improved the creep and recovery of modified binders for both stress intensities (0.1 kPa and 3.2 kPa) which confirms that the modified binder is more rut resistant. Moreover, it was observed that there was a significant improvement in the aging resistance of the asphalt binder due to addition of MWCNTs. However low temperature performance of MWCNTs was not encouraging. Also, MWCNTs addition to asphalt binder was found to be stable under high-temperature storage condition. Overall, there is a significant amount of improvement using MWCNTs in the base asphalt binder.
Back-Table Modified Stent-Graft for Endovascular Repair of Ascending Aorta
Authors: Shi Juan , Liu Ligang , Wei Xiang , Ma Mingjia
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To investigate the effectiveness of modified stent-grafts (SGs) for the management of ascending aortic pathologies.

Materials and Methods

From January 2015 to December 2019, 31 individuals were treated by ascending aortic endovascular repair with a back-table modified SG for acute (n=4) or chronic (n=1) type A aortic dissections, penetrating aortic ulcers (n=18), pseudoaneurysms (n=2), anastomotic fistula (n=1), and endoleaks after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) (n=5). The commercially available thoracic aortic SGs were modified with a fenestration or truncation technique on the back-table according to aortography during the operation.

Results

The 30-day mortality and aorta-related mortality rates were 12.9% and 6.5%, respectively. There were 2 strokes, 3 respiratory insufficiencies, and 6 endoleaks during hospitalization. During a mean follow-up of 28.8±16.6 months, the overall survival rates at 1 year and 3 years were both 80.6%. Free from adverse event rates at 1 year and 3 years were 88.9% and 84.7%, respectively. There were 2 deaths during follow-up: One patient died of cachexia 1 month after discharge, and the other patient died of acute myocardial infarction 3 months after discharge. One patient with a pseudoaneurysm underwent open ascending aorta replacement 3 months after discharge for a type Ia endoleak. Another patient suffered from cerebellar infarction 17 months after discharge.

Conclusion

The modified SG for endovascular repair of the ascending aorta is a practicable alternative and presents acceptable outcomes in high-risk patients.
Predictive Value of a Prognostic Model Based on Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte Ratio Before Radioiodine Therapy for Recurrence of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Chunyan , Duan Dong , Liu Shuang
Published: June 2021

Background:

The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive value of a prognostic model based on the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) before radioiodine treatment for the recurrence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).

Methods:

Clinicopathological data of 441 patients with papillary thyroid cancer were collected retrospectively. The Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was used to determine the optimal cut-off value for predicting PTC recurrence by LMR before radioiodine treatment. Recurrence was the endpoint of the study, and survival was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method, and any differences in survival were evaluated with a stratified log-rank test. Univariate and multifactorial analyses were performed using Cox proportional-hazards models to identify risk factors associated with PTC recurrence.

Results:

The ROC curve showed that the best cut-off value of LMR before radioiodine treatment to predict recurrence in patients with PTC was 6.61, with a sensitivity of 54.1%, a specificity of 73%, and an area under the curve of 0.628. The recurrence rate was significantly higher in the low LMR group (16%) than in the high LMR group (5%) ( P = 0.001, χ2 = 12.005). Multifactorial analysis showed that LMR < 6.61 ( P = 0.006; HR = 2.508) and risk stratification (high risk) ( P = 0.000; HR = 5.076) before radioiodine treatment were independent risk factors predicting recurrence in patients with PTC. Patients with preoperative LMR < 6.61 and high risk stratification had the lowest recurrence-free survival rate and the shortest recurrence-free survival time.

Conclusions:

The LMR-based prognostic model before radioactive iodine treatment is valuable for early prediction of PTC recurrence and it can be used in clinical practice as a supplement to risk stratification and applied in combination to help screen out patients with poorer prognosis early.
Internet Addiction Among Male Adolescents in Indonesia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Rakhmawati Windy , Kosasih Cecep Eli , Widiasih Restuning , Suryani Suryani , Arifin Hidayat
Published: June 2021

Internet has become an important part of the daily life of adolescents. Easy access to internet and its social appeal among adolescent males render them at an increased risk of internet addiction and the associated adverse physical and psychosocial effects. We conducted a qualitative study using a phenomenological approach. A purposive sample of nine male adolescents was recruited in West Java, Indonesia. Semistructured interviews were conducted until data saturation was achieved. Data were subjected to thematic analysis. We identified four main themes from the experiences of adolescents with internet addition: reasons for internet addiction, unmet social need without the internet, effects of internet addiction, and self-control over internet usage. Internet addiction among male adolescents is a major public health problem that should be addressed. The findings of this study may be useful for health professionals and families to help male adolescents manage their internet addiction.
Effect of variable speed motion curve of electric actuator on ball valve performance and internal flow field
Authors: Ma Guangfei , Lin Zhe , Zhu Zuchao , Fang Yong
Published: June 2021

Ball valve is an important control component in the pipeline transportation system. It is widely used in pipeline transportation systems to control the pressure and flow parameters of the conveying medium. Based on the user-defined UDF technology and the standard k-[Formula: see text] turbulence model using computational fluid dynamics techniques, the transient numerical simulation of the internal flow field of the ball valve under the variable speed law and different opening degrees is carried out, and the flow coefficient characteristics, resistance coefficient characteristics, inlet and outlet pressure drop, and internal flow field distribution of the ball valve are analyzed and studied. The results show that by designing the curve function of the ball valve actuator movement process with different structure forms, different types of ball valve flow coefficient and resistance coefficient curve can be obtained, which makes the ball valve as a flow regulating valve more widely used; Modifying the motion law of ball valve electric actuator has little influence on the distribution of ball valve flow field. As long as the motion law of ball valve actuator is optimized within a reasonable range, the purpose of pipeline flow control can be achieved, the inconvenience of valve replacement can be reduced, and the economic cost can be saved.
An intern-sufficient cloud for large-scale multi-robot systems and its application in multitarget navigation
Authors: Zhang Jingtao , Zheng Jun , Zhang Xiaodong , Zhang Kun , Xu Pengjie , Tang Qirong
Published: June 2021

Due to generally limited computing capability of an individual robot, cloud-based robotic systems are increasingly used. However, applications in large-scale multi-robot systems will be hindered by communication congestion and consequent lack of computing resources. In this study, an intern-sufficient cloud is investigated to alleviate the burden of communication and thus support more robots. At the same time, it enables heterogeneously idle computing resources of robots inside the system to be shared on demand, instead of relying on cloud servers and communication infrastructures, to make the scope of application wider. To this end, a hierarchical communication mechanism and a resource schedule algorithm are proposed. In the mechanism, the transmission power, signal-to-noise ratio, available bandwidth, and other relevant features are taken into account to estimate link quality for data transmission. Then, the constrained communication conditions and heterogeneous computing resources are balanced by the resource scheduling algorithm, so that the most appropriate computing resources of the robots are contributed to the mobile cloud. Furthermore, a multitarget navigation task is applied on the cloud to validate the work. Thereby, simulations and experiments are performed. The results show that the proposed intern-sufficient cloud can provide stable resources of communication and computation for a multi-robot system with 20 physical robots while achieving more effective multitarget navigation.
Collision-free and dynamically feasible trajectory planning for omnidirectional mobile robots using a novel B-spline based rapidly exploring random tree
Authors: Sun Yuxi , Zhang Chengrui , Liu Chang
Published: June 2021

Generating a collision-free and dynamically feasible trajectory with a better clearance in a cluttered environment is still a challenge. We propose two dynamically feasible B-spline based rapidly exploring random tree (RRT) approaches, which are named DB-RRT and FMDB-RRT, to achieve path planning and trajectory planning simultaneously for omnidirectional mobile robots. DB-RRT combines the convex hull property of the B-spline and RRT’s rapid expansion capability to generate a safe and dynamically feasible trajectory. Firstly, we analyze the tree’s sustainable growth ability and put forward the dynamically feasible region. A geometric method is proposed to judge whether finding a dynamically feasible trajectory quickly. Secondly, we design two steer functions to guide the tree’s growth, improve efficiency, and decrease the number of iterations. To further increase the clearance and reduce the randomness of the trajectory, we propose FMDB-RRT, which uses the path of fast marching to guide the rapid growth of DB-RRT. Then, assuming that the number of sampled points is sufficient to represent the dynamically feasible region, the DB-RRT is proved to be probabilistically complete. Finally, by conducting experimental comparisons with other algorithms in different environments and deploying the proposed algorithm to an omnidirectional mobile robot, the effectiveness and good performance of the algorithm have been verified.
What is the median volume of intracerebral hemorrhage and is it changing?
Authors: Robinson David , Van Sanford Carson , Kwon Soo Young , Coleman Elisheva , Sekar Padmini , Murphy Ryan , Flaherty Matthew L , Demel Stacie L , Aziz Yasmin , Moomaw Charles J , Haverbusch Mary , Khoury Jane , Adeoye Opeolu , Walsh Kyle B , Broderick Joseph P , Woo Daniel
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Population-level estimates of the median intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) volume would allow for the evaluation of clinical trial external validity and determination of temporal trends. We previously reported the median ICH volume in 1988. However, differences in risk factor management, neuroimaging, and demographics may have affected ICH volumes. The goal of this study is to determine the median volume of ICH within a population-based cross-sectional study, including whether it has changed over time.

Methods

The Genetic and Environmental Risk Factors for Hemorrhagic Stroke study was a population-based study of ICH among residents of the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region from 2008 through 2012. This study utilizes those data and compares with ICH cases from the same region in 1988. Initial computed tomography images of the head were reviewed, and ICH volumes were calculated using consistent methodology.

Results

From 2008 through 2012, we identified 1117 cases of ICH. The median volume of ICH was 14.0 mL and was lower in black (11.6) than in white (15.5) patients. Median volumes of lobar and deep ICH were 28.8 mL and 9.8 mL, respectively. Median ICH volume changed significantly from 1988 to 2008–2012, with age-and-race-adjusted volume decreasing from 18.3 mL to 13.76 mL (p = 0.025).

Conclusions

Median volume of ICH was 13.76 mL, and this should be considered in clinical trial design. Median ICH volume has apparently decreased from 1988 to 2008–2012.
A base-free Chan–Lam reaction catalyzed by an easily assembled Cu(II)-carboxylate metal-organic framework
Authors: Zhang Xinhai , Qin Jianhua , Ma Ruixuan , Shi Lei
Published: June 2021

A new copper(II) metal-organic framework is constructed as a sustainable copper heterogeneous catalyst. Cu-DPTCA, with high catalytic activity, can effectively promote the Chan–Lam coupling reaction of arylboronic acids and amines without adding any base or additive.
Low glycemic CHO ingestion minimizes cognitive function decline during a simulated soccer match
Authors: Quinones Manuel D , Lemon Peter WR
Published: June 2021

Often cognitive function is affected adversely during prolonged, high intensity exercise. We assessed whether hydrothermally modified corn starch (HMS) ingestion minimizes cognitive decline with soccer play. 11 men (177.7 ± 6.8 cm, 77.3 ± 7.9 kg, 22 ± 3 y, 12.8 ± 4.9% body fat, [Formula: see text]O2max = 57.1 ± 3.9 ml•kg BM−1•min−1; mean ± SD) completed 60 min simulated soccer matches with HMS (8% CHO; 0.7 g•kg BM−1•h−1; 2.8 kcal·kg BM−1•h−1) vs isoenergetic dextrose (DEX) consumed 30 min prior to the match and at half time. Compared to DEX, blood glucose was lower (p < 0.001) with HMS at 15 (5.3 ± 0.6 vs 7.7 ± 1.4 mmol•L−1) and 30 min post ingestion (5.6 ± 0.6 vs 8.3 ± 1.0 mmol•L−1), and greater (p = 0.004) after 15 min of play (5.8 ± 0.5 vs 5.1 ± 0.6 mmol•L−1). With HMS, perceived exertion ratings were reduced throughout the match (p = 0.025 at 15 min). Flanker test incongruent trial reaction time (p = 0.040) and conflict cost (p = 0.019) were both better with HMS. These data suggest that HMS ingestion minimizes cognitive decline during soccer play. More study is warranted to elucidate fully the cognition benefits of HMS ingestion for sport performance.
Virtual reality may reduce anxiety and enhance surgical experience during wide-awake local anaesthesia no tourniquet surgery: A report of two cases
Authors: Krish Goutam , Immerman Igor , Kinjo Sakura
Published: June 2021

Virtual reality is an immersive experience that has been gaining acceptance in the field of medicine as a tool for reducing patient anxiety. We recently observed the effectiveness of this technology in wide-awake local anaesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) surgeries. Here we report two cases of patients who used a virtual reality device during hand surgery using the WALANT technique. Both patients reported that the use of VR technology reduced their anxiety and improved their overall experience during surgery. This case report highlights the novel use of virtual reality during hand surgeries where the patients were awake. Based on these two cases, virtual reality may have the potential to reduce anxiety during the perioperative period and enhance a patient’s overall experience in WALANT surgeries.
A propensity-matched comparison of long-term disability worsening in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with dimethyl fumarate or fingolimod
Authors: Salter Amber , Lancia Samantha , Cutter Gary , Marrie Ruth Ann , Mendoza Jason P. , Lewin James B. , Fox Robert J.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Although the aggregate of data among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) have shown similar efficacy between dimethyl fumarate (DMF) and fingolimod (FTY), most studies have not assessed long-term worsening of disability. We compared long-term disability worsening over 5 years, as assessed by the Patient-Determined Disease Steps (PDDS), among participants with MS treated with DMF or FTY.

Methods:

We identified individuals in the North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS) registry who had relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), residing in the United States (Spring 2011 to Spring 2018), who initiated treatment with DMF ( n = 689) or FTY ( n = 565) and had ⩾1 year follow-up on index treatment. Participants receiving DMF who were previously treated with FTY and those on FTY previously treated with DMF were excluded. Propensity score matching at baseline was used to match FTY-treated to DMF-treated participants. Time to 6-month confirmed disability worsening (⩾1-point increase on PDDS, sustained for ⩾6 months) was estimated using Cox regression. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to account for differences in the duration of index exposure between DMF and FTY groups.

Results:

After propensity score matching, 468 DMF-treated participants were matched with 468 FTY-treated participants. Median treatment duration was 3.0 years for DMF and 4.0 years for FTY. At 5 years, 68.3% [95% confidence interval (CI): 62.4–73.5] of DMF-treated participants and 63.3% (95% CI: 59.6–70.1) treated with FTY were free from 6-month confirmed PDDS worsening [hazard ratio (HR) 1.01 (95% CI: 0.79–1.28); p = 0.95]. Results were similar in the sensitivity analysis: 70.5% (95% CI: 61.8–77.6) of DMF-treated participants and 72.7% (95% CI: 65.4–78.6) of FTY-treated participants were free from 6-month confirmed PDDS worsening [HR: 1.04 (95% CI: 0.71–1.51); p = 0.84].

Conclusions:

In participants with MS from the NARCOMS registry, there was no significant difference in confirmed disability (PDDS) worsening over 5 years between those treated with DMF versus FTY.
Impact of geography on prognostic outcomes of 21,509 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer enrolled in clinical trials: an ARCAD database analysis
Authors: Yin Jun , Dawood Shaheenah , Cohen Romain , Meyers Jeff , Zalcberg John , Yoshino Takayuki , Seymour Matthew , Maughan Tim , Saltz Leonard , Van Cutsem Eric , Venook Alan , Schmoll Hans-Joachim , Goldberg Richard , Hoff Paulo , Hecht J. Randolph , Hurwitz Herbert , Punt Cornelis , Diaz Rubio Eduard , Koopman Miriam , Cremolini Chiara , Heinemann Volker , Tournigard Christophe , Bokemeyer Carsten , Fuchs Charles , Tebbutt Niall , Souglakos John , Doulliard Jean-Yves , Kabbinavar Fairooz , Chibaudel Benoist , de Gramont Aimery , Shi Qian , Grothey Axel , Adams Richard
Published: June 2021

Background:

Benchmarking international cancer survival differences is necessary to evaluate and improve healthcare systems. Our aim was to assess the potential regional differences in outcomes among patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) participating in international randomized clinical trials (RCTs).

Design:

Countries were grouped into 11 regions according to the World Health Organization and the EUROCARE model. Meta-analyses based on individual patient data were used to synthesize data across studies and regions and to conduct comparisons for outcomes in a two-stage random-effects model after adjusting for age, sex, performance status, and time period. We used mCRC patients enrolled in the first-line RCTs from the ARCAD database, which provided enrolling country information. There were 21,509 patients in 27 RCTs included across the 11 regions.

Results:

Main outcomes were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Compared with other regions, patients from the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland were proportionaly over-represented, older, with higher performance status, more frequently male, and more commonly not treated with biological therapies. Cohorts from central Europe and the United States (USA) had significantly longer OS compared with those from UK and Ireland ( p = 0.0034 and p < 0.001, respectively), with median difference of 3–4 months. The survival deficits in the UK and Ireland cohorts were, at most, 15% at 1 year. No evidence of a regional disparity was observed for PFS. Among those treated without biological therapies, patients from the UK and Ireland had shorter OS than central Europe patients ( p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Significant international disparities in the OS of cohorts of mCRC patients enrolled in RCTs were found. Survival of mCRC patients included in RCTs was consistently lower in the UK and Ireland regions than in central Europe, southern Europe, and the USA, potentially attributed to greater overall population representation, delayed diagnosis, and reduced availability of therapies.
Gastrointestinal involvement and its association with the risk for nephritis in IgA vasculitis
Authors: Sestan Mario , Kifer Nastasia , Frkovic Marijan , Sapina Matej , Srsen Sasa , Batnozic Varga Mateja , Ovuka Aleksandar , Held Martina , Gudelj Gracanin Ana , Kozmar Ana , Bulimbasic Stela , Coric Marijana , Laskarin Gordana , Gagro Alenka , Jelusic Marija
Published: June 2021

Background:

We analysed clinical and biochemical parameters in predicting severe gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations in childhood IgA vasculitis (IgAV) and the risk of developing renal complications.

Methods:

A national multicentric retrospective study included children with IgAV reviewed in five Croatian University Centres for paediatric rheumatology in the period 2009–2019.

Results:

Out of 611 children, 281 (45.99%) had at least one GI manifestation, while 42 of 281 (14.95%) had the most severe GI manifestations. Using logistic regression several clinical risk factors for the severe GI manifestations were identified: generalized rash [odds ratio (OR) 2.09 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09–4.01)], rash extended on upper extremities (OR 2.77 (95% CI 1.43–5.34)] or face [OR 3.69 (95% CI 1.42–9.43)] and nephritis (IgAVN) [OR 4.35 (95% CI 2.23–8.50)], as well as lower values of prothrombin time (OR 0.05 (95% CI 0.01–0.62)], fibrinogen [OR 0.45 (95% CI 0.29–0.70)] and IgM [OR 0.10 (95% I 0.03–0.35)]] among the laboratory parameters. Patients with severe GI involvement more frequently had relapse of the disease [OR 2.14 (CI 1.04–4.39)] and recurrent rash [OR 2.61 (CI 1.27–5.38)]. Multivariate logistic regression found that the combination of age, GI symptoms at the beginning of IgAV and severity of GI symptoms were statistically significant predictors of IgAVN. Patients in whom IgAV has started with GI symptoms [OR 6.60 (95% CI 1.67–26.06)], older children [OR 1.22 (95% CI 1.02–1.46)] with severe GI form of IgAV (OR 5.90 (95% CI 1.12–31.15)] were particularly high-risk for developing IgAVN.

Conclusion:

We detected a group of older children with the onset of GI symptoms before other IgAV symptoms and severe GI form of the IgAV, with significantly higher risk for acute and chronic complications of IgAV.
Virtual Screening and Biological Evaluation of Anti-Biofilm Agents Targeting LuxS in the Quorum Sensing System
Authors: Liu Zheng , Zhang Lihua , Wang Jincai , Li Yanping , Chang Yiqun , Huang Xiaoling , Duan Jun , Ai Yilong , Zeng Xuxin , Guo Jialiang
Published: June 2021

Biofilm formation is considered as a crucial factor in various oral diseases, such as dental caries. The quorum sensing (QS) signaling system was proved to have a crucial role in the microbial dental plaque biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans ( S. mutans). LuxS was critical to regulating the QS system and survival of the bacterium, and, therefore, compounds which target LuxS may be a potential therapy for dental caries. The binding activities of 37,170 natural compounds to LuxS were virtually screened in this study. Baicalein and paeonol were chosen for further research of the binding mode and ΔG values with LuxS. Both baicalein and paeonol inhibited the biofilm formation without influence on the growth of S. mutans. Baicalein also distinctly reduced the production of both rhamnolipids and acids. The results provide us with a new approach to combat dental caries instead of the traditional use of antibacterial chemicals.
Structural Recovery of Logged Forests in the Solomon Islands: Implications for Conservation and Management
Authors: Katovai Eric , Katovai Dawnie D. , Campbell Mason , Laurance Susan G. , Edwards Will , Laurance William F.
Published: June 2021

Much of the lowland tropical forests in the Solomon Islands have been heavily logged. However, little is known about the recovery status of these forests. We examined factors that influenced the recovery of forest structural attributes within 50 years after selective logging on Kolombangara Island in the western Solomon Islands. Twelve study sites—six logged and six unlogged—were identified across the Island, with two logged sites in each of three recovery-time classes: 10, 30, and 50 years after logging. Within each study site, 12 0.1-ha plots were randomly established, and a series of forest attributes measured in each plot. Our results revealed that local logging intensity and soil attributes have stronger influence on forest-structural recovery than do site attributes such as local topography or tree architecture. Furthermore, half a century of regeneration following logging is insufficient to permit full recovery of forest structure. We conclude that logged forests on Kolombangara and possibly across the Solomon Islands may not fully recover structurally before the next logging cycle, in the absence of a policy on re-entry harvesting. The development of such a policy coupled with robust forest-management measures is pivotal to facilitating sustainable logging while supporting biodiversity conservation in the Solomon Islands. This may be the last best hope for saving lowland forests and their biodiversity on this unique tropical archipelago.
The First Thing We Do, Let’s Kill All the Lawyers…Workplace Discipline and Legal Representation
Authors: Doherty Michael
Published: June 2021

The Irish Supreme Court’s decision in McKelvey v Iarnród Éireann/ Irish Rail enters into the ongoing discussion of the ‘legalisation’ of workplace dispute resolution.
Breast erythema and nodular skin metastasis as the first manifestation of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma
Authors: Ducastel Noellie , Cimpean Ioana-Mariana , Theate Ivan , Vanhooteghem Olivier
Published: June 2021

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) associated with rough textured breast implants was first reported in 1997. It is a non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma originating from a T lymphocyte which occurs on average 10.9 years after placement of the breast implant. BIA-ALCL mainly manifests as a periprosthetic seroma or a mass adjacent to the implant. To our knowledge, we describe the first case of BIA-ALCL with initial presentation by indurate erythematous plates located in both breasts and the progressive appearance of several asymptomatic metastatic nodular lesions that have been appearing on the right arm some weeks later.
Impaired muscle capacity of the hip and knee in individuals with isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Carvalho Cristiano , Serrão Fábio Viadanna , Mancini Letícia , Serrão Paula Regina Mendes da Silva
Published: June 2021

Aims:

The aims of this study were to compare the capacity of the knee and hip muscles between individuals with and without isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) and to evaluate the impact of PFOA on pain, stiffness, and physical function.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study evaluated muscle capacity of the hip and knee using an isokinetic dynamometer. The isokinetic variables used in the statistical analysis were peak torque, total work, and average power. Pain, stiffness, and physical function were assessed using questionnaires.

Results:

A total of 26 individuals participated in the study (13 with PFOA and 13 controls). The PFOA group exhibited lower peak torque, total work, and average power for knee extension and flexion in the concentric mode ( p ⩽ 0.01) as well as lower peak torque and total work for knee extension ( p ⩽ 0.005) and lower total work for knee flexion ( p = 0.05) in the eccentric mode. The PFOA group exhibited lower peak torque of the extensor, abductor, adductor, and internal rotator muscles of the hip ( p ⩽ 0.05), less total work of the abductor and adductor muscles ( p ⩽ 0.04), and lower average power of eccentric adduction of the hip ( p = 0.01) compared with the healthy controls. Compared with the control group, the PFOA group had a higher level of pain, stiffness, and compromised physical functioning self-reported ( p ⩽ 0.005).

Conclusion:

Participants with PFOA exhibited impairments regarding muscle capacity of the hip and knee, higher level of pain and stiffness as well as compromised physical functioning in comparison with healthy controls.
Bodies, borders, babies: Birthing in liminal spaces
Authors: Mountz Alison
Published: June 2021

This commentary responds to Bagelman and Gitome’s (2021) ‘Birthing Across Borders’. I discuss some of the many contributions and insights of their article and address new lines of inquiry and potential gaps that remain to be addressed, including the need to attend to the material realities of birthing bodies, to conduct research on birthing in other liminal spaces across borders, and to understand the subsequent lives of babies birthed in these spaces.
COVID-19 and dysnatremia: A comparison between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 respiratory illness
Authors: Voets Philip JGM , Frölke Sophie C , Vogtländer Nils PJ , Kaasjager Karin AH
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To investigate the occurrence of disorders of water and sodium balance in COVID-19 in our clinic.

Methods:

In this retrospective chart review, patients were included if a polymerase chain test result for SARS-CoV-2 was obtained and if at least one plasma sodium concentration measurement was obtained during the period from March to June 2020. The occurrences of hyponatremia and hypernatremia were compared between 193 SARS-CoV-2-positive and 138 SARS-CoV-2-negative patients. A χ² test was used to determine statistical significance, and the corresponding p-values were calculated.

Results:

Hypernatremia was significantly more frequently observed in COVID-19 patients, in 38% (74 of 193), versus only 8% in SARS-CoV-2-negative patients (11 of 138) ( p < 0.01). Hyponatremia was observed in 34% of the included COVID-19 patients (65 of 193) versus 24% of SARS-CoV-2-negative patients (33 of 138). In 12% of all COVID-19 patients (23 of 193), both hyponatremia and hypernatremia were observed at some point during their admission. Among the non-COVID-19 patients, only 4% showed these plasma sodium concentration fluctuations (5 of 138). The mortality rate among the hospitalized COVID-19 patients was 23% (45 of 193). Correcting for double-counting, more than 71% (32 of 45) of the deceased COVID-19 patients developed dysnatremia (hyponatremia, hypernatremia or both) versus 57% (84 out of 148) of the surviving COVID-19 patients.

Conclusion:

Disorders of water and sodium balance—and especially hypernatremia—seem to be a common occurrence in COVID-19 patients. This has important implications for the treatment of COVID-19 patients.
Weathering the storm: A qualitative study of social prescribing in urban and rural Scotland during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Fixsen Alison , Barrett Simon , Shimonovich Michal
Published: June 2021

Objectives:

The non-clinical approach known as social prescribing aims to tackle multi-morbidity, reduce general practitioner (GP) workload and promote wellbeing by directing patients to community services. Usual in-person modes of delivery of social prescribing have been virtually impossible under social distancing rules. This study qualitatively examined and compared the responses of three social prescribing schemes in Scotland to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

We interviewed a theoretical sample of 23 stakeholders in urban and rural social prescribing schemes at the start of COVID-19 pandemic. Follow-up interviews with a representative sample were conducted around 10 months later. Interviewees included social prescribing coordinators (SPCs) GPs, managers, researchers and representatives of third sector organizations. Interview transcripts were analysed in stages and an inductive approach to coding was supported by NVivo.

Results:

Findings revealed a complex social prescribing landscape in Scotland with schemes funded, structured and delivering services in diverse ways. Across all schemes, working effectively during the pandemic and shifting to online delivery had been challenging and demanding; however, their priorities in response to the pandemic had differed. With GP time and services stretched to limits, GP practice-attached ‘Link Workers’ had taken on counselling and advocacy roles, sometimes for serious mental health cases. Community-based SPCs had mostly assumed a health education role, and those on the Western Isles of Scotland a digital support role. In both rural or urban areas, combatting loneliness and isolation – especially given social distancing – remained a pivotal aspect of the SPC role.

Conclusion:

This study highlights significant challenges and shifts in focus in social prescribing in response to the pandemic. The use of multiple digital technologies has assumed a central role in social prescribing, and this situation seems likely to remain. With statutory and non-statutory services stretched to their limits, there is a danger of SPCs assuming new tasks without adequate training or support.
Intravenous immunoglobulin as adjuvant therapy for COVID-19: A case report and literature review
Authors: Flores-Oria Carlos A , Saturno Emilio , Ramanathan Supriya , Martinez Castillo Diana J , Kumar Roshni , Ferrer Nelson , Mossaad Afnan , Tellez Maria E , Jon Cindy , Waters Sara C , Mosquera Ricardo A
Published: June 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has infected and caused the death of an alarming number of individuals worldwide. No specific treatment has been internationally standardized for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); however, in some cases, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been used as adjuvant treatment in critically ill patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. We report a case of a 50-year-old man with severe COVID-19 pneumonia who received 5 days course of IVIG as adjuvant therapy. Invasive respiratory support was avoided. The patient had a successful recovery and was discharged without supplemental oxygen. A high dose of IVIG may improve survival in patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. In the current report, we reviewed literature on how IVIG use may improve the early stages of the disease.
Sirolimus is effective in autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome-type III: A pedigree case report with homozygous variation PRKCD
Authors: Gu Hao , Chen Zhenping , Ma Jie , Wang Jing , Zhang Rui , Wu Runhui , Wang Tianyou
Published: June 2021

Autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) usually presents in childhood with fever, nonmalignant splenomegaly, and lymphadenopathy along with cytopenia, which is caused by mutations in the FAS apoptotic pathway. The TCRαβ + CD4/CD8 double-negative T cells (DNT), one of required criteria of ALPS, will rise markedly in ALPS. Human Protein kinase C delta (PRKCD) deficiency (OMIM # 615559) was recently identified to be causative for an ALPS-type III with significant B-cell proliferation particularly of immature B cells. We report a pedigree homozygous variation of PRKCD gene (c.36T>G, p. Y12X) which presented with refractory cytopenia, splenomegaly, and polarization of DNT/regulatory T cells (Treg) axis. After repeated recurrence, the patient was treated with mTOR inhibitor sirolimus, which had a safety mechanism and specifically rebalance the DNT/Treg axis. The patient’s hemoglobin and clinical condition improved gradually by the application of sirolimus (1.5 mg/m2, actual blood concentration 4.27–10.3 ng/l). Homozygous variation in PRKCD may lead to typical ALPS clinical manifestations. Targeting DNT/Treg axis, use of sirolimus in such patients may help to achieve good clinical control.
C16, a novel sinomenine derivatives, promoted macrophage reprogramming toward M2-like phenotype and protected mice from endotoxemia
Authors: Ni Ping , Liu Yue-Qin , Man Jin-Yu , Li Wang , Xue Shan-Shan , Lu Tao-Hong , Su Zhao-Liang , Zhou Cheng-Lin
Published: June 2021

Macrophage plays a critical part in host defense, tissue repair, and anti-inflammation; Macrophage reprogramming is responsible for disease development or regression. We aimed to clarify the effect of sinomenine-4-hydroxy-palmitate (C16), on macrophage reprogramming and anti-inflammatory in endotoxemia model. According to a structure modification of SIN (Sinomenine), C16 was found. Then, based on the endotoxin model, the mice liver and kidney toxicity was evaluated and serum cytokines level of IL-6 (Interleukin-6), TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor-α), and IL-1β (Interleukin-1β) were measured by ELISA (Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay). Then, we confirmed the effect of C16 on macrophages reprogramming, we used the flow cytometry to test the effect of C16 on macrophages apoptosis in vitro. Then, iNOS (Inducible nitric oxide synthase), M1-type related cytokines, such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and M2-type related cytokines, such as Arg-1 (Arginase-1), CD206, Fizz1, and Ym1 was detected, which expressed in ANA-1 and primary peritoneal macrophages. To further explore the molecular mechanism of C16 in reprogramming of macrophages from M1 toward M2 phenotype, the expression of STAT1 (signal transducer and activator of Transcription 1), STAT3, ERK1/2 (extracellular signal regulated kinase1/2), AKT, p38, and its corresponding phosphorylation were determined by western blot. Our results demonstrated that C16 improved the survival rate of LPS- (lipopolysaccharide) challenged mice and decreased the inflammatory cytokines expression; After C16 treatment, the expression of M1 phenotype correlation factors decreased significantly, while the expression of M2 phenotype correlation factors increased significantly at different levels compared with normal group. It indicated that C16 reprogram macrophages phenotype from M1 toward M2 following LPS stimulus. Furthermore, the results also showed that C16 showed anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting LPS-induced p38, AKT and STAT1 phosphorylation and contributing ERK1/2 activation. C16 promoted macrophage reprogramming toward M2-like phenotype via p-p38/p-AKT or STAT1 signals pathway and C16 might be a valid candidate for inflammatory disease.