bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of olive oil and cholesterol enriched diets on aortic fatty streak development and lipid peroxidation in rabbits
Authors: Paknahad Zamzam , Moosavian Seyedeh Parisa , Mahdavi Reza , Rajabi Parvin
Published: June 2021

Background and aim:

High plasma cholesterol levels, mainly low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL) is a widely recognized major risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD). According to epidemiologic studies’ findings, people from the Mediterranean countries have lower CHD rates than other countries; in these countries the usual diet is high in olive oil. The present study compares the effects of a cholesterol-enriched diet with or without adding olive oil on serum lipoproteins, lipid peroxidation, and atherosclerosis development.

Methods:

Twenty Dutch male rabbits were categorized into four groups (one group as control, and others as experimental). They received one of control (CON), olive oil-rich (OIL), cholesterol-rich (CHOL), and cholesterol + olive oil (COIL) diet for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples from the heart were collected at the beginning and the end of the experimental period.

Results:

Means of serum lipids were not significantly different at the beginning of the experimental period. After the intervention, significant differences were shown in total cholesterol (TC) (CON: 27.75 ± 4.83, OIL: 19.75 ± 2.62, CHOL: 1757.20 ± 149.62, COIL: 2906.40 ± 421.01; P < 0.001), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) (CON: 16 ± 1.47, OIL: 10.25 ± 1.70, CHOL: 22.2 ± 3.83, COIL: 28.60 ± 6.27; P = 0.04), triglyceride (CON: 65 ± 12.21, OIL: 71.75 ± 6.23, CHOL: 244.2 ± 44.45, COIL: 775.6 ± 105.07; P < 0.001), and MDA between groups (CON: 0.57 ± 0.10, OIL: 0.63 ± 0.15, CHOL: 5.62 ± 0.18, COIL: 2.06 ± 0.64; P < 0.001). The comparison of CHOL and the COIL groups showed a higher mean of malondialdehyde (MDA) in group CHOL (4.47 ± 0.28 vs 1.1 ± 0.6; P < 0.001). Aortic lesion was not observed in CON and OIL groups. Aortic lesion degree was significantly lower in the COIL group compared to the CHOL (2.4 ± 0.6 vs 3.66 ± 0.33; P = 0.02).

Conclusions:

These findings showed the preventive effect of olive oil on atherosclerosis development. However, it is independent of the plasma lipoprotein effect, and olive oil probably acts on arteries directly.
Populism and new radical-right parties: The case of VOX
Authors: Marcos-Marne Hugo , Plaza-Colodro Carolina , O’Flynn Ciaran
Published: June 2021

The populist radical-right label brings together parties characterised by their adherence to populism, nativism, and authoritarianism. While the relevance of the label to the family is unquestioned, its popularity, combined with the theoretical affinity between the three core elements, may cause radical-right parties to be systematically considered populist without further examination. This article posits that whether a radical-right party is populist is an open empirical question, and to demonstrate this, we test the importance of populism in the discourse and electoral success of a new radical-right party, Spain’s VOX. Our empirical strategy is based on the holistic grading of core political discourses, and the analysis of innovative survey data that includes populist attitudes and voting intention. Our results indicate that, despite the existence of certain populist elements in both the supply and demand sides of the electoral competition, these should be considered supplemental and subordinate to nationalist and traditionalist elements, which are central to explaining both the discourse and electoral success of VOX. We believe that our findings are a cautionary note against assuming that all radical-right parties are populist, and an invitation to improve empirical techniques able to separate populism, nativism, and authoritarianism in political discourses.
Clinical characteristics of fast and slow progressors of infarct growth in anterior circulation large vessel occlusion stroke
Authors: Rocha Marcelo , Desai Shashvat , Son Jiyeon , Tonetti Daniel A , Jovin Tudor , Jadhav Ashutosh P
Published: June 2021

Fast and slow progressor phenotypes of infarct growth due to anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (ACLVO) remain poorly understood. We aimed to define clinical predictors of fast and slow progressors in a retrospective study of patients with ACLVO who underwent baseline advanced imaging within 24 hours of stroke onset. Fast progressors (ischemic core > 70 ml, < 6 hours after onset) and slow progressors (ischemic core ≤ 30 ml, 6 to 24 hours after onset) were identified amongst 185 patients. Clinical and laboratory variables were tested for association with fast or slow progressor status. In the early epoch, no significant differences were found between fast progressors and controls. In the delayed epoch, slow progressors had a median NIHSS of 14 versus 20 (p < 0.01) and MCA occlusion in 80% versus 63% (p < 0.05) relative to controls. In multivariate analyses, NIHSS (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.73-0.95), hyperlipidemia (OR 4.24, 95% CI 1.01 – 19.3) and hemoglobin concentration (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.57 – 0.99) were independently associated with slow progressor status. This study indicates that lower initial stroke symptom severity, a history of hyperlipidemia and mild anemia are associated with individual tolerance to ACLVO stroke.
Sorafenib plus partial splenic embolism for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma Barcelona stage C combined with hypersplenism: a case series
Authors: Zeng Jianting , Wang Chunmei , Wang Yu , Luo Zhenhua , Zhang Yanlin , Luo Xianzhang
Published: June 2021

Background

Sorafenib is mainly used to treat patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage C, many of whom also have severe cirrhosis. However, hypersplenism and digestive tract hemorrhage are common complications of cirrhosis, which increase the risk and difficulty of treatment.

Methods

Nineteen patients with HCC BCLC stage C with hypersplenism were treated with sorafenib plus partial splenic embolism at Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China, between January 2015 and June 2018. We analyzed the therapeutic effect and clinical safety of this treatment in these patients.

Result

Hypersplenism was rectified in all patients. The incidence rates of hemorrhage and myelosuppression were 0%, and the mean survival time was 11.2 months.

Conclusion

Sorafenib plus partial splenic embolism could relieve hypersplenism and prolong survival in patients with BCLC stage C HCC.
Multidimensional mechanisms of metformin in cancer treatment
Authors: Singh-Makkar Sarabjot , Pandav Krunal , Hathaway Donald , Paul Trissa , Youssef Pamela
Published: June 2021

Metformin has been in clinical use for more than half a century, yet its molecular mechanism of action is not entirely understood. Metformin has been shown to have antiproliferative and synergistic effects on various types of cancers. The anticancer effects of metformin are potentially applicable to both diabetic and nondiabetic patients. Areas of ongoing investigation focus on metformin’s ability to activate adenosine monophosphate kinase (AMPK), in addition to its effect on Myc mRNA, monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1), hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Additional anticancer effects are exhibited by acting on liver kinase B1 (LKB1), CREB-regulated transcription coactivator 2 (CRTC2), nitric oxide, and reactive oxygen species. Further investigation will be focused on elucidating metformin’s metal-binding properties and how they may be harnessed for their anticancer effect. The acquired knowledge about metformin properties has expanded the number of targets for drug discovery such as microRNA, hexokinase, adenylate cyclase, transcription factors, various cyclins, and copper. In order to design anticancer drugs that mimic metformin’s mechanism of action, binding assay studies must be conducted to fully understand and utilize the AMPK-dependent and independent mechanisms. Metformin’s complex mechanisms that can potentially make this drug a multifaceted therapy targeting tumorigenesis in addition to information from ongoing clinical trials implicate that metformin can be a potential chemotherapeutic drug or adjuvant that could prove to be vital to future strategies against several types of cancer.
Perception of Tactile Distance on the Back
Authors: Nicula Anabela , Longo Matthew R.
Published: June 2021

The perceived distance between two touches is anisotropic on many parts of the body. Generally, tactile distances oriented across body width are perceived as larger than distances oriented along body length, though the magnitude of such biases differs substantially across the body. In this study, we investigated tactile distance perception on the back. Participants made verbal estimates of the perceived distance between pairs of touches oriented either across body width or along body length on (a) the left hand, (b) the left upper back, and (c) the left lower back. There were clear tactile distance anisotropies on the hand and upper back, with distances oriented across body width overestimated relative to those along body length/height, consistent with previous results. On the lower back, however, an anisotropy in exactly the opposite direction was found. These results provide further evidence that tactile distance anisotropies vary systematically across the body and suggest that the spatial representation of touch on the lower back may differ qualitatively from that on other regions of the body.
Biographical research through the looking glass of social distancing: Reflections on biographical interviewing and online technologies in pandemic times
Authors: Moran Lisa , Caetano Ana
Published: June 2021

This paper asks critical questions about biographical interviewing during the coronavirus disease 2019 era and the age of social distancing. How do we ‘do’ biographical research when we are more physically distant from interview participants than ever before? What kinds of challenges and issues emerge when doing biographical research in online spaces? How do we form rapport and strong trusting bonds with interviewees in the current context? This paper provides a critical commentary on these questions, focusing on the limitations and possibilities of online interviewing during pandemic times.
The eggshell membrane: A potential biomaterial for corneal wound healing
Authors: Mensah Rosemond A , Jo Seung Bin , Kim Hoon , Park Sung-Min , Patel Kapil D , Cho Kyong J , Cook Michael T , Kirton Stewart B , Hutter Victoria , Sidney Laura E , Alves-Lima Decio , Lin Hungyen , Lee Jung-Hwan , Kim Hae-Won , Chau David YS
Published: June 2021

The eggshell membrane (ESM) is an abundant resource with innate complex structure and composition provided by nature. With at least 60 million tonnes of hen eggs produced globally per annum, utilisation of this waste resource is highly attractive in positively impacting sustainability worldwide. Given the morphology and mechanical properties of this membrane, it has great potential as a biomaterials for wound dressing. However, to date, no studies have demonstrated nor reported this application. As such, the objective of this investigation was to identify and optimise a reproducible extraction protocol of the ESM and to assess the physical, chemical, mechanical and biological properties of the substrate with a view to use as a wound dressing. ESM samples were isolated by either manual peeling (ESM-strip) or via extraction using acetic acid [ESM-A0.5] or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, EDTA [ESM-E0.9]. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) confirmed that there were no traces of calcium residues from the extraction process. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed that the extraction method (acetic acid and EDTA) did not alter the chemical structures of the ESM and also clarified the composition of the fibrous proteins of the ESM. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses revealed a three-layer composite structure of the ESM: an inner layer as continuous, dense and non-fibrous (limiting membrane), a middle layer with a network of fibres (inner shell membrane) and the outer layer (outer shell membrane) of larger fibres. Material properties including optical transparency, porosity, fluid absorption/uptake, thermal stability, mechanical profiling of the ESM samples were performed and demonstrated suitable profiles for translational applications. Biological in vitro studies using SV40 immortalised corneal epithelial cells (ihCEC) and corneal mesenchymal stromal cells (C-MSC) demonstrated excellent biocompatibility. Taken together, these results document the development of a novel sustainable biomaterial that may be used for ophthalmic wounds and/or other biomedical therapies.
Investigations of strain rate, size, and crack length effects on the mechanical response of polycaprolactone electrospun membranes
Authors: Bayram Ferdi C , Kapçı Mehmet F , Yuruk Adile , Isoglu Ismail A , Bal Burak
Published: June 2021

The effects of strain rate, size (height × width), and pre-existing crack length on the mechanical response of polycaprolactone electrospun membranes were investigated by tension tests conducted at room temperature. In particular, tensile tests were performed with three different strain rates for strain rate effect tests, seven different geometries for elucidating the size effect, and three different initial notch lengths for crack growth experiments. The electrospun membranes were produced by the electrospinning technique using a polycaprolactone solution prepared in 1, 1, 1, 3, 3, 3-hexafluoro-2-propanol as the solvent. Scanning electron microscopy was utilized to show the continuous fiber structure without bead formation. The average fiber diameter was calculated as 1.113 ± 0.270 μm by using scanning electron microscopy images of the membranes. The chemical structure of polycaprolactone was analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and the toxicity and cell viability of the electrospun membranes were shown by CellTiter 96® Aqueous One Solution Cell Proliferation Assay (MTS test). It was observed that the ultimate tensile strength and Young’s modulus decreased, and the elongation at failure value increased as the strain rate decreased from 10−1 to 10−3 s−1. Besides, positive strain rate sensitivity was observed on the mechanical response of electrospun polycaprolactone membranes. Moreover, the dependency of mechanical response on the size geometry has been well studied, and the optimum height and width combinations were specified. Also, crack growth was studied in terms of both macroscopic and microstructural deformation mechanisms and it is observed that individual fiber deformations and interactions are highly effective on the mechanical behavior and also propagation of the crack. Consequently, in this study, the size and strain rate effects and crack growth on the mechanical response of electrospun polycaprolactone membranes have been investigated extensively, and the results presented herein constitute an essential guideline for the usage of polycaprolactone electrospun membranes at different loading scenarios.
Numerical investigation of the effect of triangular cavity on the unsteady aerodynamics of NACA 0012 at a low Reynolds number
Authors: Yadav Rajesh , Bodavula Aslesha
Published: June 2021

Time accurate numerical simulations were conducted to investigate the effect of triangular cavities on the unsteady aerodynamic characteristics of NACA 0012 airfoil at a Reynolds number of 50,000. Right-angled triangular cavities are placed at 10%, 25% and 50% chord location on the suction and have depths of 0.025c and 0.05c, measured normal to the surface of the airfoil. The second-order accurate solution to the RANS equations is obtained using a pressure-based finite volume solver with a four-equation transition turbulence model, γ–Re θt, to model the effect of turbulence. The two-dimensional results suggest that the cavity of depth 0.025c at 10% chord improves the aerodynamic efficiency ( l/d ratio) by 52%, at an angle of attack of α = 8°, wherein the flow is steady. The shallower triangular cavity when placed at 25%c and 50%c enhances the l/d ratio by only 10% and 17%, respectively, in the steady-state regime of angles of attack between α = 6° and 10°. The deeper cavity also enhances the l/d ratio by up to 13%, 22% and 14% at angles of attack between α = 6° and 10°. Even in the unsteady vortex shedding regime, at α =12° and higher, significant improvements in the time-averaged l/d ratios are observed for both cavity depths. The improvements in l/d ratio in the steady-state, pre-stall regime are primarily because of drag reduction while in the post-stall, unsteady regime, the improvements are because of enhancements in time-averaged C l values. The current finding can thus be used to enhance the aerodynamic performance of MAVs and UAVs that fly at low Reynolds numbers.
The Major Health Implications of Social Connection
Authors: Holt-Lunstad Julianne
Published: June 2021

The influence of social relationships extends beyond emotional well-being to influence long-term physical-health outcomes, including mortality risk. Despite the varied measurement approaches used to examine social relationships within the health literature, the data can be synthesized using social connection as an organizing framework. This review discusses cumulative scientific evidence of links between various aspects of social connection and mortality, as well as supporting evidence for links with morbidity and plausible mechanisms. This evidence fulfills the criteria outlined in the Bradford Hill guidelines for establishing causality. Despite strong evidence currently available, several gaps remain and will need to be addressed if society is to rise to the challenge of developing effective interventions to reduce risk associated with social disconnection. This evidence has important broader implications for medical practice and public health.
Effect of fibre content on the mechanical properties of hemp fibre woven fabrics/polypropylene composite laminates
Authors: Antony Sheedev , Cherouat Abel , Montay Guillaume
Published: June 2021

Nowadays natural fibre composites have gained great significance as reinforcements in polymer matrix composites. Composite material based on a polymer matrix reinforced with natural fibres is extensively used in industry due to their biodegradability, recyclability, low density and high specific properties. A study has been carried out here to investigate the fibre volume fraction effect of hemp fibre woven fabrics/PolyPropylene (PP) composite laminates on the tensile properties and impact hammer impact test. Initially, composite sheets were fabricated by the thermal-compression process with desired number of fabric layers to obtain composite laminates with different fibre volume fraction. Uniaxial, shear and biaxial tensile tests were performed and mechanical properties were calculated. Impact hammer test was also carried out to estimate the frequency and damping parameters of stratified composite plates. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis was performed to observe the matrix and fibre constituent defects. Hemp fabrics/PP composite laminates exhibits viscoelastic behaviour and as the fibre volume fraction increases, the viscoelastic behaviour decreases to elastic behaviour. Due to this, the tensile strength increases as the fibre content increases. On the other hand, the natural frequency increases and damping ratio decrease as the fibre volume fraction increases.
Condom Decision Making Among Latino and Black Adolescent Males: Social Neurobiological and Paternal Influences
Authors: Guilamo-Ramos Vincent , Benzekri Adam , Thimm-Kaiser Marco , Rivera Margarita , Fuller Taleria R. , Warner Lee , Koumans Emilia H. A.
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

We explored mechanisms of paternal influence associated with adolescent male condom decision making and behavior within an integrated framework of social neurobiological and behavioral theories of condom use.

Method:

Self-administered surveys from Latino and Black adolescent males aged 15–19 years ( n = 191) and their fathers were obtained. Dyads were recruited using area sampling methodology. Analyses included multivariable logistic and ordinary least squares regression examining direct and indirect associations of adolescent decision-analytic and paternal influence factors with adolescent condomless sex in the past 3 months.

Results:

Notions of masculinity, low-risk perception, partner approval of, and self-efficacy for condomless sex were associated with engaging in unprotected sex. Adolescent males reported reduced odds of engaging in condomless sex when indicating greater levels of father–son communication, relationship satisfaction, and paternal monitoring.

Conclusion:

Father-based interventions grounded in integrated theoretical frameworks of behavioral decision making and neuroscience have the potential to promote condom use among adolescent males.
The Individualization of the Little Talks Intervention: Implications for Modular Treatment Designs
Authors: Carr Diamond S. , Manz Patricia H.
Published: June 2021

Modular treatment designs enable interventionists to adapt intervention content to individual clients, a process referred to as individualization. Little is known about individualization processes and its effects on outcomes in early childhood services. This exploratory study investigated individualization processes undertaken by Early Head Start home visitors as they provided Little Talks, a modularized book-sharing intervention for families. It also examined the effect of individualization on parent involvement in early learning activities. Two indicators of individualization were calculated in this study: (a) the proportion of change in the Little Talks’ lessons sequence and (b) the pace of delivery. Findings showed that most home visitors individualized Little Talks, with the most frequent change being the repetition of lessons. Exploratory regression analysis showed an inverse relationship between home visitors’ individualization behavior and parent involvement, highlighting the need to examine the quality of individualization. Implications for advancing the implementation and study of individualization processes in home visiting are discussed.
Beware of Histiocytes: Whipple Adenopathy and its Mimics
Authors: Pizzi Marco , Sbaraglia Marta , De Bartolo Debora , Dal Santo Luca , Santoro Luisa , Faedo Alessandra , Cecchetto Melissa , Dei Tos Angelo Paolo
Published: June 2021

Histiocytic proliferations are heterogeneous lesions with distinct pathogenic and clinical-pathological features. While many of these conditions are nonspecific immune responses to variable causes, a minority of them is associated with specific etiological factors and unique clinical-pathological pictures. By presenting a rare case of Whipple adenopathy, we address the peculiar histological features of this condition and the differential diagnosis of nodal histiocytosis in general.
Primary Intracerebral Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Caporalini Chiara , Giordano Flavio , Moscardi Selene , Di Stefano Gioia , Lenge Matteo , Di Giacomo Giampiero , Basile Massimo , Zin Angelica , Mura Regina , Scagnet Mirko , Alaggio Rita , Sardi Iacopo , Genitori Lorenzo , Buccoliero Anna Maria
Published: June 2021

Alveolar soft part sarcomas (ASPSs) are rare malignant tumors representing ∼1% of all soft tissue sarcomas. Most ASPS occurring in the central nervous system are metastases. In contrast, primary intracranial ASPSs are extremely rare and only 8 cases have been previously reported in English literature. Here, we report a case of primary alveolar soft part sarcoma in a 16-year-old female patient with no evidence of primary extracranial tumors. Histologically this case fulfilled the criteria of ASPS, and a molecular confirmation has been archived. To date, only 9 primary intracranial ASPS cases, including ours, have been reported in the literature. This report highlights the clinical and pathological characteristics, differential diagnosis, and molecular analysis of primary ASPS of the central nervous system.
Adaptation of the Steen Happiness Index (SHI) to Brazil: A Comparison of the Psychometric Properties of the SHI and the Subjective Happiness Scale
Authors: Zanon Cristian , Fabretti Rodrigo Rodrigues , Martins Jucimara Zacarias , Heath Patrick J.
Published: June 2021

This study examined the psychometric properties of the Steen Happiness Index (SHI)—a measure of authentic happiness designed for intervention research—in a sample of Brazilian security workers. The SHI has yet to be used in a Brazilian sample and has the potential to assess both eudaimonic and hedonic happiness in Brazil. The psychometric properties of the SHI were also compared with those of the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), a widely used happiness measure, using classical test theory and item response theory. Military police officers, civilian police officers, and military firefighters ( N = 435) completed the SHI, SHS, and measures of well-being, optimism, and psychopathological symptoms. Exploratory factor analysis provided support for a one-factor SHI—rather than the three-factor structure found in previous research. The unidimensional SHI also better discriminated between low, medium, and high levels of happiness, and did not demonstrate a ceiling effect when compared with the SHS. Advantages and disadvantages of both scales are discussed.
The Experience of Caregiving for an Adult Sibling with Down Syndrome
Authors: Sciscione Patricia
Published: June 2021

Adults with Down syndrome are living longer than ever before and are likely to outlive their parents. Adult siblings have been identified as future caregivers, yet little is known about this experience. The prominent caregiving literature focuses on the anticipation of caregiving rather than on the experience of being a caregiver. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experience of being a caregiver to an adult sibling with Down syndrome. A descriptive phenomenological approach was used to interview seven siblings who were partial and full caregivers for an adult sibling with Down syndrome. The participants fulfilled multiple roles in the lives of their siblings throughout their adult lives, but felt unprepared to fulfill the duties of being full-time caregivers upon the death of their parents. Navigation of the social service system was complex and frustrating with no support or guidance. Everyday tasks of caregiving were time consuming and managing the medical and social service needs of their siblings was viewed as a huge responsibility. Participants felt the responsibilities of caregiving put limitations on their personal lives. Despite the challenges, participants felt caregiving had benefits also. The transition to being caregivers was difficult because of the lack of planning by their parents, yet participants have not made plans for the future succession of caregiving. Implications are identified for healthcare and social service professionals to aid families in the care of adults with Down syndrome and in planning for the future transition of caregiving in families.
Electronic Cigarette Cessation in Youth and Young Adults: A Case Series
Authors: Sikka Gautam , Oluyinka MopeninuJesu , Schreiber Raiza , Galiatsatos Panagis
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) usage use has increased exponentially, especially in youth and young adults. For many, the usage of these products results in a severe addiction, one that is difficult to discontinue. Further, e-cigarette cessation is challenging as there are no specific guidelines directing such medical management for patients and their respective clinicians. Here, we report a case series of patients who we are attempting to wean from e-cigarettes with medical guidance.

Methods:

Six patients who self-reported daily e-cigarette usage and were enrolled in our Tobacco Treatment Clinic (TTC) were followed for 12-months. An inventory of the e-cigarette product and usage was captured, along with responses to identify when the patients experienced majority of their cravings. Co-morbidities, if present, were documented. Documentation of interventions, counseling with or without pharmacological therapies, were captured. Primary outcome was cessation at 6-months.

Results:

The 6 patients enrolled in clinic ranged in age from 17 to 31 years, with 4 of the patients identifying as males and 2 as females. Patients were using e-cigarettes for 1 to 6 years prior to enrolling into the TTC. As for interventions, all patients received counseling and pharmacological interventions in the form of nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs). Three of the 6 patients were weaned off e-cigarettes by 6-months, with a fourth patient weaned off at the 8-month mark. Variables identified as barriers to cessation included non-compliance with medical regimen and peer influence.

Discussion:

Here we present a case series of attempting to wean persons from electronic cigarettes use. Given the lack of international guidelines in e-cigarette addiction management, we believe this case series will be of value for clinicians and their patients. Further studies are warranted to help patients with e-cigarette addiction in their attempt at cessation.
Tumour Seeding After a Thoracic Biopsy for Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Dionese Michele , Basso Umberto , Ramondo Gaetano , Pierantoni Francesco , Bimbatti Davide , Caumo Francesca , Zagonel Vittorina , Maruzzo Marco
Published: June 2021

The role of percutaneous tumour biopsies had gain importance in the management of renal cell carcinoma to provide diagnostic specimen for the patients with metastatic disease that could benefit a systemic treatment. Among the possible complications of this procedure, however, there is the risk of tumoral cells seeding along the biopsy’s tract; this complication, albeit being reported as anecdotal, could have devastating effects. Here we report a case of a young male who developed subcutaneous chest metastasis of renal cell carcinoma after a biopsy of a lung nodule. We subsequently reviewed other cases reported in literature
Prognostic Nomogram for Patients With Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma of Pancreatic Head After Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Zhuang Hongkai , Zhou Zixuan , Ma Zuyi , Huang Shanzhou , Gong Yuanfeng , Li Zhenchong , Liu Chunsheng , Wang Shujie , Chen Bo , Zhang Chuanzhao , Hou Baohua
Published: June 2021

Background:

The prognosis of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) of pancreatic head remains poor, even after potentially curative R0 resection. The aim of this study was to develop an accurate model to predict patients’ prognosis for PDAC of pancreatic head following pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 112 patients with PDAC of pancreatic head after pancreaticoduodenectomy in Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital between 2014 and 2018.

Results:

Five prognostic factors were identified using univariate Cox regression analysis, including age, histologic grade, American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Stage 8th, total bilirubin (TBIL), CA19-9. Using all subset analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis, we developed a nomogram consisted of age, AJCC Stage 8th, perineural invasion, TBIL, and CA19-9, which had higher C-indexes for OS (0.73) and RFS (0.69) compared with AJCC Stage 8th alone (OS: 0.66; RFS: 0.67). The area under the curve (AUC) values of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for the nomogram for OS and RFS were significantly higher than other single parameter, which are AJCC Stage 8th, age, perineural invasion, TBIL, and CA19-9. Importantly, our nomogram displayed higher C-index for OS than previous reported models, indicating a better predictive value of our model.

Conclusions:

A simple and practical nomogram for patient prognosis in PDAC of pancreatic head following pancreaticoduodenectomy was established, which shows satisfactory predictive efficacy and deserves further evaluation in the future.
The effect of the Sport Education Model on basic needs, intrinsic motivation and prosocial attitudes: A systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis
Authors: Manninen Mika , Campbell Sara
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to provide a quantitative synthesis on the effect of the Sport Education Model (SEM) on basic need satisfaction, intrinsic motivation, and prosocial attitudes in physical education (PE). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on experimental studies conducted before August 2020. The initial search yielded 6061 articles, with 25 articles ( n = 2937) meeting the inclusion criteria. The articles were analyzed using five separate analyses using two- and three-level random-effects models and Hedges’ g effect size. The study showed the SEM to have a positive heterogeneous medium effect on autonomy ( g = 0.43; CI 95% [0.12, 0.74]), competence ( g = 0.42; CI 95% [0.17, 0.67]) and relatedness ( g = 0.57; CI 95% [0.28, 0.85]) need satisfaction, intrinsic motivation ( g = 0.63; CI 95% [0.37, 0.89]), and prosocial attitudes ( g = 0.46; CI 95% [0.09, 0.83]). All a priori categorical moderators were statistically insignificant. The analyses indicate that the SEM is more need-supportive and promotes intrinsic motivation and prosocial attitudes more compared to the skill-drill, direct, and traditional instructional styles used in PE. However, high-quality experimental and comparative trials testing the efficacy of the SEM on broad outcomes are needed. Specifically, the concept of novelty, potential negative outcomes, and essential behavioral outcomes, such as physical activity, should be included in the future. Further, the fidelity of the interventions should be measured and reported with more transparency and detail.
Telerehabilitation-based trunk exercise training for motor symptoms of individuals with Parkinson’s disease: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Vasconcellos Liliane S de , Silva Raquel S , Pachêco Thaiana BF , Nagem Danilo AP , Sousa Catarina de O , Ribeiro Tatiana S
Published: June 2021

Background

Poor gait and static balance performance may be associated with trunk muscles in individuals with Parkinson's disease.

Aim

The study aims at evaluating the effects of a home-based trunk exercise program on gait and balance performance in Parkinson's disease.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 28 individuals with Parkinson's disease with Hoehn & Yahr stage II–IV. The control group ( n = 14) performed upper and lower limb exercises, while the experimental group ( n = 14) engaged in a trunk exercise program. Both groups performed home-based exercises three times daily for 3 weeks. At the end of interventions (post-training) and 4 weeks after post-training (follow-up), static balance (force plate) and gait (motion capture system) were evaluated. Mixed analysis of variance compared time × group interaction ( α = 5%).

Results

No time × group interaction was observed in the center of pressure displacement, center of pressure mean velocity, and anteroposterior and mediolateral center of pressure range during bipedal support with eyes opened and closed; and gait speed, hip, knee, and ankle range of motion during gait analysis. No intragroup differences were found.

Conclusion

Trunk strengthening exercises did not improve gait and balance compared with upper and lower limb exercises. The non-adherence rate (33%) to the remote intervention may have also hindered our results.
Patient preferences for specialist outpatient video consultations: A discrete choice experiment
Authors: Snoswell Centaine L , Smith Anthony C , Page Matthew , Caffery Liam J
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Telehealth has been shown to improve access to care, reduce personal expenses and reduce the need for travel. Despite these benefits, patients may be less inclined to seek a telehealth service, if they consider it inferior to an in-person encounter. The aims of this study were to identify patient preferences for attributes of a healthcare service and to quantify the value of these attributes.

Methods

We surveyed patients who had taken an outpatient telehealth consult in the previous year using a survey that included a discrete choice experiment. We investigated patient preferences for attributes of healthcare delivery and their willingness to pay for out-of-pocket costs.

Results

Patients ( n = 62) preferred to have a consultation, regardless of type, than no consultation at all. Patients preferred healthcare services with lower out-of-pocket costs, higher levels of perceived benefit and less time away from usual activities ( p < 0.008). Most patients preferred specialist care over in-person general practitioner care. Their order of preference to obtain specialist care was a videoconsultation into the patient’s local general practitioner practice or hospital ( p < 0.003), a videoconsultation into the home, and finally travelling for in-person appointment. Patients were willing to pay out-of-pocket costs for attributes they valued: to be seen by a specialist over videoconference ($129) and to reduce time away from usual activities ($160).

Conclusion

Patients value specialist care, lower out-of-pocket costs and less time away from usual activities. Telehealth is more likely than in-person care to cater to these preferences in many instances.
Danish cannabis policy revisited: Multiple framings of cannabis use in policy discourse
Authors: Søgaard Thomas Friis , Nygaard-Christensen Maj , Frank Vibeke Asmussen
Published: June 2021

Aim:

This article traces recent developments in Danish cannabis policy, by exploring how “cannabis use” is problematised and governed within different co-existing policy areas.

Background:

Recently, many countries have changed their cannabis policy by introducing medical cannabis and/or by moving toward legalisation or decriminalisation. Researchers have thus argued that traditional notions of cannabis as a singular and coherent object, are being replaced by perspectives that highlight the multiple ontological character of cannabis. At the same time, there is growing recognition that drug policy is not a unitary phenomenon, but rather composed by multiple “policy areas”, each defined by particular notions of what constitutes the relevant policy “problem”.

Design:

We draw on existing research, government reports, policy papers and media accounts of policy and policing developments.

Results:

We demonstrate how Danish cannabis policy is composed of different co-existing framings of cannabis use; as respectively a social problem, a problem of deviance, an organised crime problem, a health- and risk problem and as a medical problem.

Conclusion:

While the international trend seems to be that law-and-order approaches are increasingly being replaced by more liberal approaches, Denmark, on an overall level, seems to be moving in the opposite direction: Away from a lenient decriminalisation policy and towards more repressive approaches. We conclude that the prominence of discursive framings of cannabis use as a “problem of deviance” and as “a driver of organised crime”, has been key to this process.
Public knowledge of alternative media in times of algorithmically personalized news
Authors: Klawier Tilman , Prochazka Fabian , Schweiger Wolfgang
Published: June 2021

Citizens are likely to encounter various types of alternative media online, especially on algorithmically personalized news channels (APNC) like social network sites or search engines. It is unclear, however, to what degree they are aware of these outlets and familiar with the concept of alternative media. This study investigates the relation between exposure to alternative media and knowledge of them, taking the role of APNC into account. Analyzing representative survey data of German Internet users, we find a gap: While many individuals report to use alternative media, few of them are able to name alternative media titles matching scholarly conceptions. Although the use of APNC increases self-reported exposure to alternative media, it does not improve actual knowledge of them. All in all, many Internet users have little awareness of alternative media and do not clearly distinguish between different types of sources they come across online.
A novel adaptive lane change method in transient dynamic traffic conditions for highly automated vehicles
Authors: Rafat Mohsen , Azadi Shahram
Published: June 2021

Trajectory planning with consideration of surrounding vehicles and decision-making in the middle of complicated manoeuvres are some of the most important challenges regarding the implementation of automated driving. Since transient dynamic traffic conditions was limited to the start of the manoeuvre in previous research, no solution was provided for the surrounding vehicles’ transient changes during the manoeuvre. The algorithm presented in this paper is able to adapt to unstable variable traffic conditions and it is robust to changes in the surrounding vehicles’ conditions, even during the lane change manoeuvre. The Adaptive Lane Change algorithm provides all possible safe trajectories for any moment of manoeuvre via applying DE optimization method on a fifth-order polynomial equation. In this way, it is able to make a new decision and plan safe trajectories according to the new conditions of surrounding vehicles during the manoeuvre. Also, it guarantees collision avoidance at all-time via simultaneous longitudinal and lateral vehicle control. Improving the trajectory during a lane change manoeuvre regarding the surrounding vehicles’ conditions is considered as one of the main contributions of the presented algorithm. A second main contribution is the collision avoidance considering the vehicle’s dynamic via returning to the initial lane when there is no safe trajectory in the target lane, even during the lane change manoeuvre. The decision-making unit is evaluated by real driving tests. Then, the whole structure is simulated with MATLAB in complex transient dynamic traffic conditions via various scenarios and its performance is tested with IPG CarMaker in the presence of simulated surrounding vehicles.
Becoming equals: the meaning and practice of gender equality in an Islamic feminist movement in India
Authors: Dutta Sagnik
Published: June 2021

Building upon an ethnographic exploration of the pedagogy and alternative dispute resolution activities of an Islamic feminist movement in India called the Indian Muslim Women’s Movement (Bharatiya Muslim Mahila Andolan), this article speaks to the tension between Saba Mahmood’s influential account of religion and gendered agency, and a liberal feminist conception of gender equality. Anthropological explorations of Muslim women’s pious commitments as well as liberal feminist engagements with religion and culture are premised upon a presumed dichotomy between ethical engagements with religion, and a commitment to gender equality. Yet there is little analysis in existing scholarship of how gender equality is constituted by social movements premised on a religious identity, such as Islamic feminist movements. This article moves beyond thinking about gender equality merely as an abstract liberal normative good to explore how the discourse of gender equality is constituted in a movement that brings together everyday ethical commitments inspired by notions of piety and concerted everyday struggles against social and legal inequality. The ethnographic vignettes show how gender equality ( barabari) connotes social and legal equality between men and women premised on their equal spiritual status as God’s creations, their equal pious obligations irrespective of gender and the equal imperative of ethical conduct on both men and women based on Quranic values of compassion ( raham) and justice ( insaf). The pursuit of gender equality also entails reinterpretation of social norms in the light of ethical conduct, and an ethical commitment to collective struggle against gender discrimination in state and non-state forums.
Indigenous ethnic languages in Bangladesh: Paradoxes of the multilingual ecology
Authors: Sultana Shaila
Published: June 2021

Languages are at the centre of nationalistic discourses across South Asia since they have played a historically and politically significant role in defining nationhood and both uniting and dividing countries throughout the British Empire. Despite multilingualism and multiculturalism, and vast differences in individual access to, and command of, mother tongue, national and official languages, paradoxically a collective language is always considered as an important imagined marker of ‘national’ identity. It is this latter point I explore by drawing on ethnographic fieldwork amongst Bangladeshi youths from indigenous ethnic communities who are designated as ethnic minority groups in Bangladesh. Positioning the paper at the nexus of multilingual ecology, I thereby investigate how youths from the indigenous ethnic communities perceive themselves with reference to their mother tongue, national language, and foreign language, and what impact their relationships, their preferences, and use have on the maintenance and sustainability of their mother tongue in the multilingual ecology. A qualitative content analysis of the data demonstrates that it is only by taking the varying potential scopes of language into account that we can fully appreciate these complex Asian multilingual ecologies, where the mother tongues, indigenous ethnic languages, national languages, and English have specific historical, political, and sociocultural significances. The discursive claims of Bangladeshi ethnic youth participants indicate that the presence of the ‘mother-tongue’ and ‘national language’ in these contexts is ideologically infused, layered, value-laden, relational, and paradoxical at the microlevel – as these languages are practiced and nurtured by the linguistically minoritized subjects themselves. They negotiate their relationship with these languages, strictly keeping in consideration the existence of other languages and their social, cultural, economic significance in the multilingual ecology. It is via the paradoxical role of these languages in contexts that the paper aims to identify the socio-psychological reasons behind language loss in Bangladesh.
Physiotherapy service provision in a specialist adult cystic fibrosis service: A pre-post design study with the inclusion of an allied health assistant
Authors: Hall Kathleen , Maxwell Lyndal , Cobb Robyn , Steele Michael , Chambers Rebecca , Roll Mark , Bell Scott Cameron , Kuys Suzanne
Published: June 2021

What is the impact of including an allied health assistant (AHA) role on physiotherapy service delivery in an acute respiratory service? A pragmatic pre-post design study examined physiotherapy services across two 3-month periods: current service delivery [P1] and current service delivery plus AHA [P2]. Clinical and non-clinical activity quantified as number, type and duration (per day) of all staff activity categorised for skill level (AHA, junior, senior). Physiotherapy service delivery increased in P2 compared to P1 (n = 4730 vs n = 3048). Physiotherapists undertook fewer respiratory (p < 0.001) and exercise treatments (p < 0.001) but increased reviews for inpatients (p < 0.001) and at multidisciplinary clinics in P2 (56% vs 76%, p < 0.01). The AHA accounted for 20% of all service provision. AHA activity comprised mainly non-direct clinical care including oversight of respiratory equipment use (e.g. supply, set-up, cleaning, loan audits) and other patient-related administrative tasks associated with delegation handovers, supervision and clinical documentation (72%), delegated supervision of established respiratory (5%) and exercise treatments (10%) and delegated exercise tests (3%). The AHA completed most of the exercise tests (n = 25). AHA non-direct clinical tasks included departmental management activities (11%). No adverse events were reported. AHA inclusion in an acute respiratory care service changed physiotherapy service provision. The AHA completed delegated routine clinical and non-clinical tasks. Physiotherapists increased clinic activity and annual reviews. Including an AHA role offers sustainable options for enhancing physiotherapy service provision in acute respiratory care.