bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Correction Method of Shooting Action Based on Computer Vision
Authors: Li Bo , Wang Lei , Feng Hao
Published: July 2022

Aiming at the problem that the students’ long-term use of nonstandard shooting action leads to poor basketball teaching effect, an intelligent correction method of shooting action based on computer vision is proposed. Combined with the principle of computer vision, the image acquisition model of basketball shooting action is constructed. The edge contour and adaptive feature segmentation of basketball images are detected, and abnormal shooting movements are recognized. The intelligent correction model of shooting action is constructed, and the intelligent correction of shooting action is realized. Finally, through experiments, it is proved that the visual analysis and intelligent correction effect of basketball shooting action are obviously better, and it can correct shooting action in real time and accurately.
Human Colon Cancer–Derived Clostridioides difficile Strains Drive Colonic Tumorigenesis in Mice
Authors: Drewes Julia L. , Chen Jie , Markham Nicholas O. , Knippel Reece J. , Domingue Jada C. , Tam Ada J. , Chan June L. , Kim Lana , McMann Madison , Stevens Courtney , Dejea Christine M. , Tomkovich Sarah , Michel John , White James R. , Mohammad Fuad , Campodónico Victoria L. , Heiser Cody N. , Wu Xinqun , Wu Shaoguang , Ding Hua , Simner Patricia , Carroll Karen , Shrubsole Martha J. , Anders Robert A. , Walk Seth T. , Jobin Christian , Wan Fengyi , Coffey Robert J. , Housseau Franck , Lau Ken S. , Sears Cynthia L.
Published: July 2022

Defining the complex role of the microbiome in colorectal cancer and the discovery of novel, protumorigenic microbes are areas of active investigation. In the present study, culturing and reassociation experiments revealed that toxigenic strains of Clostridioides difficile drove the tumorigenic phenotype of a subset of colorectal cancer patient–derived mucosal slurries in germ-free ApcMin/+ mice. Tumorigenesis was dependent on the C. difficile toxin TcdB and was associated with induction of Wnt signaling, reactive oxygen species, and protumorigenic mucosal immune responses marked by the infiltration of activated myeloid cells and IL17-producing lymphoid and innate lymphoid cell subsets. These findings suggest that chronic colonization with toxigenic C. difficile is a potential driver of colorectal cancer in patients.

Significance:

Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths worldwide, with a multifactorial etiology that likely includes procarcinogenic bacteria. Using human colon cancer specimens, culturing, and murine models, we demonstrate that chronic infection with the enteric pathogen C. difficile is a previously unrecognized contributor to colonic tumorigenesis.

See related commentary by Jain and Dudeja, p. 1838.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1825
Heterogeneity in Estimates of Incidence and Prevalence of Narcolepsy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis
Authors: Wang Yiping , Chen Yinzi , Tong Yixin , Li Chenshu , Li Jing , Wang Xiling
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder. The diagnostic criteria of narcolepsy evolve from clinical symptoms to molecular biomarkers, along with the understanding of its clinical nature and pathogenesis. Estimates of incidence and prevalence of narcolepsy vary between studies, while the contribution of changing diagnostic criteria to the variation remains unclear. We aimed to explore sources of heterogeneity in estimates of incidence and prevalence, with a particular focus on diagnostic criteria. Methods: We searched 5 databases for observational studies on the incidence or prevalence of narcolepsy published before October 14, 2021. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were used to assess the impact of diagnostic criteria on incidence/prevalence of narcolepsy after adjusting for age-group, region, study period, vaccination status, index date, and type of narcolepsy. Results: Thirty-five studies were selected from 2,833 articles. The estimates of incidence and prevalence were wide-ranging with high heterogeneity (incidence I2 = 99.8%; prevalence I2 = 99.7%), from 0.06 to 6.56 per 100,000 person-years for incidence and from 1.05 to 79.40 per 100,000 population for prevalence, respectively. Totally 10 diagnostic criteria were used, including the 1st revised edition of International Classification of Diseases (ICSD-1), ICSD-2, ICSD-3, the 8th revision of International Classification of Diseases (ICD-8), ICD-9, ICD-10, Brighton collaboration case definition (Brighton), Mayo classification, the Ullanlinna Narcolepsy Scale, and clinical symptoms with the multiple sleep latency test. ICD tended to provide higher estimates of incidence/prevalence than Brighton (incidence odds ratio [OR] 1.38, [95% CI: 1.02, 1.86]; prevalence OR 1.50, [95% CI: 1.04, 2.39]). No significant difference was found in estimates of two rates between ICSD and Brighton. The incidence was higher for children than adults (OR 1.61, [95% CI: 1.25, 2.07]) and for individuals vaccinated with Pandemrix than those unvaccinated (OR 6.49, [95% CI: 3.86, 10.91]). Conclusions: Estimates of incidence/prevalence of narcolepsy could not be pooled reliably with substantial heterogeneity. Incidence/prevalence studies using ICSD and Brighton provided lower estimates than studies using ICD and other criteria. Diagnostic criteria should be standardized when comparing or pooling the incidence/prevalence to understand the epidemiology of narcolepsy. Future studies are needed to focus on the at-risk population for the etiology investigation of narcolepsy.
Incidence and Outcomes of Acute Cerebrovascular Events: Methodology of the Population-Based Normandy Stroke Study
Authors: Schneckenburger Romain , Boulanger Marion , Watrin Marguerite , Le Du Gwendoline , Morello Rémy , Touzé Emmanuel
Published: July 2022

Background: The number of strokes has been steadily increasing due to the aging of the population, and its management has changed dramatically in recent years. Nevertheless, there are few unbiased epidemiological studies to investigate the incidence of strokes and their long-term prognosis. Methods: The Normandy Stroke Study (NSS) is a prospective population-based study of all strokes and transient ischemic attacks in a large urban, suburban, and rural area in the Northwest of France. It was designed to meet the current gold standard in stroke epidemiological study by using multiple overlapping sources for case identification. It also aimed to assess the impact of socioeconomic disparities and long-term prognosis of stroke through an additional follow-up up to 3 years after the event to better understand the functional and cognitive prognostic of stroke as well as the quality of life in patients after stroke. Conclusion: NSS will provide important data on the epidemiology and long-term consequences of stroke at the population level and will help care providers adapt resource allocation.
Small Airways: Not Just Air Ducts – Pathophysiological Aspects and Clinical Implications
Authors: Frizzelli Annalisa , Nicolini Gabriele , Chetta Alfredo
Published: July 2022

The airways smaller than 2 mm diameter are named small airways. They are essential for the transport and exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide and at the same time play a relevant role in pulmonary mechanics, contributing to the subdivision of lung volumes. Measurement of small airway function is, therefore, crucial in patients with respiratory disease. This overview focuses on the physiological aspects of the small airways, considered as air ducts as well as determinants of pulmonary mechanics, the most common tools for evaluating their function and treatment implications.
Impact of a Population Genomic Screening Program on Health Behaviors Related to Familial Hypercholesterolemia Risk Reduction
Authors: Jones Laney K. , Chen Nan , Hassen Dina A. , Betts Megan N. , Klinger Tracey , Hartzel Dustin N. , Veenstra David L. , Spencer Scott J. , Snyder Susan R. , Peterson Josh F. , Schlieder Victoria , Sturm Amy C. , Gidding Samuel S. , Williams Marc S. , Hao Jing
Published: July 2022

Background:

Limited information is available regarding clinician and participant behaviors after disclosure of genomic risk variants for familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) from a population genomic screening program.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of MyCode participants with an FH risk variant beginning 2 years before disclosure until January 16, 2019. We analyzed lipid-lowering prescriptions (clinician behavior), medication adherence (participant behavior), and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels (health outcome impact) pre- and post-disclosure. Data were collected from electronic health records and claims.

Results:

The cohort included 96 participants of mean age 57 (22–90) years with median follow-up of 14 (range, 3–39) months. Most (90%) had a hypercholesterolemia diagnosis but no specific FH diagnosis before disclosure; 29% had an FH diagnosis post-disclosure. After disclosure, clinicians made 36 prescription changes in 38% of participants, mostly in participants who did not achieve LDL cholesterol goals pre-disclosure (81%). However, clinicians wrote prescriptions for fewer participants post-disclosure (71/96, 74.0%) compared with pre-disclosure (81/96, 84.4%); side effects were documented for most discontinued prescriptions (23/25, 92%). Among the 16 participants with claims data, medication adherence improved (proportion of days covered pre-disclosure of 70% [SD, 24.7%] to post-disclosure of 79.1% [SD, 27.3%];
P
=0.05). Among the 52 (54%) participants with LDL cholesterol values both before and after disclosure, average LDL cholesterol decreased from 147 to 132 mg/dL (
P
=0.003).

Conclusions:

Despite disclosure of an FH risk variant, nonprescribing and nonadherence to lipid-lowering therapy remained high. However, when clinicians intensified medication regimens and participants adhered to medications, lipid levels decreased.
Biological attributes of Salibro™, a novel sulfonamide nematicide. Part 3: biocompatibility with beneficial soil fungi
Authors: Thoden Tim C. , Alkader Mariam A. , Markakis Emmanouil A. , Yum Man Y. , Wiles John A.
Published: July 2022

Over the last few years, novel synthetic nematicides, such as Salibro™ nematicide (a.s. fluazaindolizine - Reklemel™ active), Velum Prime® (a.s. fluopyram) or Nimitz® (a.s. fluensulfone), have been commercialised in various regions around the world. Whilst considerable scientific information exists on their field efficacy against plant-parasitic nematodes, very little has been published on their bio-compatibility with beneficial soil fungi. In this paper in vitro studies are presented with various nematophagous (Athrobotrys, Monacrosporium, Harposporium, Purpureocillium), entomoparasitic (Beauveria, Isaria) and disease-suppressive (Trichoderma) fungi that were exposed to these nematicides under laboratory conditions. Assessments were made on their impact on radial growth and sporulation of those fungi. Clear differences in sensitivity to the nematicides were seen between the different fungi. Intrinsically, fluopyram showed the strongest adverse effects on the tested fungi that often became already visible at a concentration of 5 ppm (a.s.). Negative effects were significant at higher concentrations of 50 ppm. Fluensulfone showed limited adverse impacts on the tested fungi at 5 ppm (a.s.) but clearly inhibited most of the fungi at 50 ppm (a.s.). Fluazaindolizine had the least impact of the novel nematicides, with no adverse effects recorded on any species at 5 ppm (a.s.), and very minor growth reductions at 50 ppm (a.s.). Even when tested at 250 ppm (a.s.) fluazaindolizine still showed no impact on Purpureocillium lilacinum, as well as only a weak impact on some Trichoderma species. Vydate (a.s. oxamyl), which was often included as a traditional carbamate nematicide in the test, also showed excellent bio-compatibility with the tested fungi at concentrations of from 5 to 50 ppm (a.s.). Overall, the studies showed that beneficial soil fungi differ in their intrinsic sensitivity to these modern nematicides. These interactions may be considered when designing integrated nematode management programmes that leverage endemic or introduced biocontrol agents. However, it should be noted that additional studies under field conditions with recommended label rates of the products are needed to confirm the trends seen in these laboratory data.
East Syriac Scribal Poetry in Paratextual Manuscript Parts
Authors: Pritula Anton
Published: July 2022

The present paper discusses various kinds of poetry represented in scribal paratextual parts of East Syriac manuscripts, such as introductions and colophons. In the current article, we have attempted to develop a general typology of this kind of verse pieces and to discuss the details of their transmission in diachronic scope, starting with the Mongol period and focusing on the Ottoman time, when this type of texts obtained a large popularity.
Riccia sarieae (Ricciaceae: Marchantiophyta)—a new species from a fragmented hillock of the Western Ghats, India
Authors: DANIELS A.E.D. , DANIELS D.T.T.
Published: July 2022

Riccia sarieae, a new species of Riccia, is described from Marunthuvazhmalai, a fragmented hillock of the Southern Western Ghats. The distinctive features of the species are quadrate to rounded-quadrate epidermal cells, ovoid to roughly tetrahedral spores lacking an equatorial wing, crenulate, 9–11 areolae, with ridged areolations.
COVID-19 Diagnosis in Patients With Acute Abdominal Pain Without Respiratory Symptoms: A UK Emergency General Surgical Unit Experience
Authors: Zuberi Sharukh , Mushtaq Yusuf , Patel Krashna , Vickramarajah Saranya , Askari Alan , Rashid Farhan , Gurprashad Roy
Published: July 2022

Background

Recent evidence has emerged reporting atypical clinical symptoms of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). There is a sparsity of existing studies examining COVID-19-related abdominal pain and the role of investigative imaging for the virus in these patients. Study aims were to determine COVID-19 incidence in those with acute abdominal pain in the absence of respiratory symptoms and to assess the diagnostic performance of CT thoracic imaging in such patients.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of all consecutive patients admitted to our emergency general surgical unit between 1st March 2020 and 31st May 2020 was performed. In adherence with national guidelines, all patients underwent nasal and oro-pharyngeal COVID-19 RT-PCR swabs as well as thoracic and abdominal computed tomography (CT) on admission.

Results

From 112 patients admitted with acute abdominal pain in the absence of respiratory symptoms, 16 (14.3%) tested positive for COVID-19 on RT-PCR swab testing. Overall, 50% (8/16) of these patients had no intra-abdominal pathology on CT. The sensitivity and specificity of CT thoracic imaging for diagnosing COVID-19 was 43.8% and 91.7%, respectively. Patients with positive COVID-19 swabs had higher C-reactive protein levels, lower potassium levels and a higher proportion of those with a low lymphocyte count.

Discussion

One in seven patients with abdominal pain without any respiratory symptoms tested positive for COVID-19. Half of these patients represented COVID-19 manifesting primarily as acute abdominal pain. Combined swab testing and CT imaging should be performed in all abdominal pain presentations due to the varying diagnostic performance of thoracic CT in diagnosing COVID-19.
Comparing Outcomes of Appendectomy Versus Non-operative Antibiotic Therapy for Acute Appendicitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Zagales Israel , Sauder Matthew , Selvakumar Sruthi , Spardy Jeffrey , Santos Radleigh. G. , Cruz Jozef , Bilski Tracy , Elkbuli Adel
Published: July 2022

Background

Acute appendicitis is one of the most common etiologies of an acute abdomen in the emergency department and first-line standard surgical care for the condition has recently been reconsidered. We aim to evaluate the effectiveness and outcomes of surgical intervention versus non-operative antibiotic therapy in the treatment of acute appendicitis in adult and pediatric patients.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and EMBASE. The search included all studies until January 15th, 2022. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed for abstracting data and assessing data quality and validity. Data were independently extracted by the authors of the study. Meta-analysis was performed and Cohen’s Q test for heterogeneous effects was performed to determine if fixed or random-effects models were appropriate for use.

Results

Twelve randomized controlled trials investigating a total of 3703 acute appendicitis patients met inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. In the systematic review, eleven RCTs demonstrated that appendectomy had improved effectiveness compared to non-operative antibiotic management. The meta-analysis demonstrated that patients undergoing appendectomy had significantly higher treatment effectiveness compared with antibiotics-only treatment (98.4% vs. 73.3%, P < .0001). The meta-analysis did demonstrate a significant .54-day reduction in hospital length of stay for the appendectomy group compared to the non-operative antibiotic therapy group.

Conclusions

Surgical intervention is associated with increased effectiveness of treatment and reduced in-hospital length of stay among patients with acute appendicitis. Guidelines established by institutions and surgical organizations should indicate appendectomy as the standard and superior treatment option for patients presenting with acute appendicitis.
Non-destructive acoustic screening of pineapple ripeness by unsupervised machine learning and Wavelet Kernel methods
Authors: Chen Yenming J. , Liou Yeong-Cheng , Ho Wen-Hsien , Tsai Jinn-Tsong , Liu Chia-Chuan , Hwang Kao-Shing
Published: July 2022

In a pineapple exporting factory, manual lines are usually built to screen fruits of non-ripen hitting sounds from millions of undecided fruits for long-haul transportation. However, human workers cannot concentratedly listen and make consistent judgments over long hours. Pineapple screening becomes arbitrary after approximately an hour. We developed a non-destructive screening device aside from the conveyor sorter to classify pineapples automatically. The device makes intelligent judgments by tapping a sound source to the skin of pineapples and analyzing the penetrated sounds by wavelet kernel decomposition and unsupervised machine learning (ML). The sound tapping relies on the well-touch of the skin. We also design several acoustic couplers to adapt the vibrator to the skin and pick high-quality penetrated sounds. A Taguchi experiment design was used to determine the most suitable coupler. We found that our unsupervised ML method achieves 98.56% accuracy and 0.93 F1-score by using a specially designed thorn-board for assisting tapping sound to fruit skin.
Beyond the Dotted Line: Empowering Parents From Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Families to Participate
Authors: Chang Ya-Chih , Avila Mariela , Rodriguez Hannah
Published: July 2022

Parent participation in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process is a critical factor in improving the effectiveness of children’s special education programs and services. However, many families, particularly those from culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) backgrounds, are unfamiliar with the IEP process and their rights under Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). For families with young children with special needs in preschool, this process may be even more daunting when they may have just transitioned from early intervention services to the school system. The article will focus on the critical need for early childhood special education (ECSE) teachers to support and empower families to become active participants in their child’s IEP. The article will 1) examine the importance of cultural self-awareness in developing collaborative relationships with families, 2) discuss supports for CLD families, and 3) provide an easy-to-follow checklist for ECSE teachers as they support and empower CLD families to become active participants in their children’s IEP.
The 2021 Zika outbreak in Uttar Pradesh state of India: Tackling the emerging public health threat
Authors: Khan Efa , Jindal Himanshu , Mishra Priya , Suvvari Tarun Kumar , Jonna Sadhana
Published: July 2022

Zika virus is an RNA virus belonging to the Flavivirus family that is chiefly transmitted by the female Aedes mosquito. The Zika virus first infected humans in Uganda and Tanzania in 1952. Since, it has spread to several parts of the world causing outbreaks of variable extent. In India, these outbreaks have been reported from Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Maharashtra. The most recent outbreak is from the most populous state of India, Uttar Pradesh, where the climate is conducive to the breeding and transmission of other arboviral infections such as Dengue, Chikungunya, and Malaria. These infections also happen to share similar incubation periods and overlapping clinical manifestations with Zika virus (ZIKV) infection, leading to misdiagnoses or delayed diagnosis. We aim to provide an account of the outbreak, its repercussions, errors made in attempting to contain the spread of the disease, and, measures to be taken in the future.
Brazilian Students in the United States: A Forgotten Chapter of the Cultural Cold War during the Rebel Years
Authors: Ridenti Marcelo
Published: July 2022

From 1962 to 1971 the Associação Universitária Interamericana (Inter-American University Association—AUI) conducted a program of internships at Harvard University for Brazilian students. The goal of these internships was for Brazilian students to gain an understanding of the American way of life. The students were mostly recruited among leftists. It was their hearts and minds that the university wanted to win over to the side of the "free world" during the Cold War. These students took advantage of the situation and used the internships for their own purposes. This had implications not only for their personal careers but also for the construction of institutional and political ideas. This process took place within a complex game that involved the interests of the United States and the entrepreneurs who helped finance the AUI. Created during the Kennedy administration, the AUI ended its activities as a result of a conservative offensive launched by the Nixon administration in the United States and the Médici dictatorship in Brazil.

Desde 1962 a 1971 a Associação Universitária Interamericana (Interamerican University Association—AUI) promoveu o intercâmbio universitário de estudantes brasileiros selecionados para fazer um estágio em Harvard e conhecer o modo de vida americano. Os universitários eram recrutados em sua maioria entre simpatizantes de ideias de esquerda, cujos corações e mentes se buscava conquistar para o lado do “mundo livre” na Guerra Fria. Eles aproveitaram as circunstâncias conforme suas próprias conveniências, não apenas de carreira pessoal, mas também na construção institucional e política, num jogo de mão dupla com os interesses dos Estados Unidos e dos empresários que, juntos, financiaram a entidade. Criada durante o governo Kennedy, a AUI encerrou as atividades de intercâmbio diante da ofensiva conservadora do governo Nixon nos Estados Unidos e da ditadura no Brasil do presidente Medici.
Clinical characteristics of patients with dizziness/vertigo showing a dissociation between caloric and video head impulse test results
Authors: Li Xiang , Ling Xia , Li Zheyuan , Song Ning , Ba Xiahong , Yang Bo , Yang Xu , Sui Rubo
Published: July 2022

Objective

To explore the clinical characteristics of patients with dizziness/vertigo who showed a dissociation between the results of the caloric test and video head impulse test (vHIT).

Methods

A total of 327 patients who complained of dizziness/vertigo were continuously included. All patients underwent both the horizontal vHIT (h-vHIT) and caloric tests. Of the 327 patients, 69 patients showed a dissociation between the results of the two tests, 4 patients were excluded because the interval between the two tests exceeded 7 days. Finally, 65 patients were included in the analysis.

Results

Among the 65 patients, 55 (84.6%) patients showed a positive caloric test (+) with a negative h-vHIT (−), and 10 (15.4%) patients showed a negative caloric test (−) with a positive h-vHIT (+). Peripheral and central lesions were identified in 50 (90.9%) and 5 (9.1%) patients, respectively, in the caloric test (+)/h-vHIT (−) group; and central lesions were found in 6 (60%) patients in caloric test (−)/h-vHIT (+) group. The etiologies were unilateral peripheral vestibular dysfunction (n = 25), Meniere’s disease (MD, n = 10), sudden hearing loss with vertigo (SHLV, n = 7), benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (n = 5), vestibular neuritis (n = 2), autoimmune inner ear disease (n = 1), vestibular migraine (VM, n = 3), multiple sclerosis (n = 1), and multiple system atrophy (n = 1) in the caloric test (+)/h-vHIT (−) group, which were SHLV (n = 3), MD (n = 1), VM (n = 1), episodic ataxia type 2 (n = 1), cerebellopontine angle tumor (N = 1), Parkinson’s disease (n = 1), Persistent postural perceptual dizziness (n = 1), and posterior circulation ischemia (n = 1) in the caloric test (−)/h-vHIT (+) group.

Conclusion

Dissociation between the results of caloric test and h-vHIT is not uncommon. A positive caloric test with a negative h-vHIT occurred more frequently, and these patients mostly had peripheral vestibular lesions; while a negative caloric test with a positive h-vHIT was unusual, these patients had both peripheral and central lesions.
China’s policy similarity evaluation using LDA model: An experimental analysis in Hebei province
Authors: Zhang Junhuan , Gui Wanbing , Wen Jiaqi
Published: July 2022

This article proposes a combination model, which is composed of latent Dirichlet allocation model, TF-IDF feature extraction algorithm and Euclidean distance measurement method, to identify and judge whether the similarities between multiple policy texts exist or not. With the help of actual data result, this will drive the relevant government agencies to figure out problems in a timely manner and provide a decision-making basis for them to formulate and optimise appropriate economic policies. To this end, this article analyses and studies the four types of economic texts that are classified as Insurance, Banking, Tax and Finance from the Central Government of Hebei province and Shijiazhuang city levels. Also, we consider Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong. Experimental results show that (1) the combination model can quickly and effectively recognise and determine whether there are similarities between multiple economic policy texts; (2) similarities exist or not between the central, provincial and municipal level policy texts depending on the comparison of the distance values across them; (3) the smaller the distance value between economic policy texts of the same kind, the higher the similarity in them; and (4) the distance values between the six policy texts in Finance, Insurance, Bank and Tax categories are ranked from low to high. In terms of similarity, the Finance category is the highest, followed by Insurance and Bank, and the Tax category is the lowest.
Protocol: The effects of nutrient- vs food- vs food-substitution-based dietary recommendations for reducing free sugar intakes, on free sugar intakes, dietary profiles and sweet taste outcomes: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Boxall Lucy R. , Arden-Close Emily , James Janet , Appleton Katherine M.
Published: July 2022

Background

Dietary guidelines are intended to inform and aid the general public, with the aim of improving healthy diets and reducing health risk. The effectiveness of these guidelines, however, is rarely investigated.

Aim

This work investigates the effects of three different types of dietary recommendations for reducing free sugars, on free sugar intakes over 12 weeks. Secondary aims will also investigate how these different recommendations affect secondary outcomes, outcomes in subsets of the trial population, and identify barriers and facilitators to dietary change.

Methods

Using a randomised controlled parallel-group trial with three intervention and one control arms, 240 individuals consuming >5% total energy intake from free sugars will be randomized to receive: nutrient-based, nutrient- and food-based, nutrient-, food- and food-substitution-based recommendations or no recommendations, with outcomes assessed for the following 12 weeks. Our primary outcomes are free sugar intakes and adherence to the recommendations. Secondary outcomes are daily energy intake, dietary composition, anthropometry, sweet food perceptions and preferences, sweet food choice, attitudes towards sweet foods, eating behaviour and food choice, knowledge and lifestyle variables, quality of life, adverse events, and barriers and facilitators towards intervention adherence.

Results

Data will contribute to three distinct analyses: 1) Analyses to investigate the effects of the three different dietary recommendations versus control; 2) Analyses of the effects of the dietary recommendations in different population subgroups, and 3) Investigation of the barriers and facilitators to success.

Conclusion

This work offers new perspectives on the effects of different dietary recommendations to enact behaviour change.
Pre-hospital caloric deficits in surgical patients
Authors: Sadeghi John K , Hollis Russell J , Cerise Jane E , Li Leo T , Cal Matthew , Patel Vihas M , Coppa Gene F , Barrera Rafael
Published: July 2022

Background

The timing, route, and amount of nutrition for surgical patients with substantial caloric deficits remain active areas of study. Current guidelines are based on in-hospital days NPO after admission to the hospital. This historic process neglects the multiple days of caloric deficit patients experience prior to hospital admission.

Aim

To determine the impact of pre-hospital caloric deficit (PHCD) for surgical patients on their outcomes.

Methods

313 patients admitted with a diagnosis of small bowel obstruction, pancreatitis, or diverticulitis were analyzed for their PHCD's. PHCD's were estimated using patient-reported days with significant emesis, and absent oral intake. Patients with PHCD's were compared to patients with no PHCD for length of stay, status on discharge, disposition, and 30-day readmission rate.

Results

There were 313 patients and 42% of the patients were male. The median age was 65 years. Median number of days sick prior to hospital admission was 1 (IQR: 1 to 2). Median PHCD was 1882 kcal (IQR: 1355 to 3650). Median number of days NPO while in-hospital was 3 (IQR: 2 to 5). Median in-hospital caloric deficit was 4268 kcal (IQR: 2825 to 6610). No significant association was observed between discharge disposition, complication rate, ambulatory status, 30-day readmission rate and PHCD. In-hospital caloric deficit was associated with complications after surgery (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Small PHCD's in patients with SBO's, pancreatitis, or diverticulitis do not negatively affect their outcomes. Further research of patients with large PHCD's is needed to best treat surgical patients at risk for malnutrition.
Planning-Level Crash Prediction Models in Southern California
Authors: Hamilton Ian , Himes Scott , Wang Yang , Tanzen Riana , Zhou Yuying
Published: July 2022

Macro- or planning-level crash prediction models (CPMs) differ from traditional predictive safety models in that they predict crashes for a geographic area rather than at a specific segment or intersection site. These models lend themselves to traditional planning-level activities, particularly when the exact design or dimensions of a road facility have yet to be determined. This paper describes a research effort conducted by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) to develop a series of models to support safety analyses as part of the agency’s quantitative planning approach. The models were found to support SCAG’s planning at two scales: one series of models addressed annual performance measure target setting for the entire SCAG region by predicting severe injuries per year (i.e., annual fatalities, serious injuries, and nonmotorized fatalities and serious injuries), and a second series of models predicted crashes that contribute to agencywide performance measures, but at a community- or neighborhood level. These latter community models predicted crashes at a scale that will assist in evaluating scenarios for future projects or local community growth. The models developed through this research were consistent with previous research and display a promising ability to accurately predict crashes and injuries that are key benchmarks for regional safety planning.
Exploration of the molecular mechanisms, shared gene signatures, and MicroRNAs between systemic lupus erythematosus and diffuse large B cell lymphoma by bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Peng Zhishen , Liang Xiaofeng , Lin Xiaobing , Lin Weiyi , Lin Zien , Wei Shanshan
Published: July 2022

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex heterogeneous systemic autoimmune disease. Previous studies have shown that SLE may be related to diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL), but the mechanism of their relationship is still unclear. The present study aimed to explore the common genetic molecular mechanisms, core shared genes, and miRNAs between SLE and DLBCL as well as to investigate the diagnostic markers of DLBCL.

Methods

The SLE and DLBCL microarray data were downloaded from the comprehensive Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify co-expression modules. Four core shared genes were screened out by various algorithms and validated in other cohorts. Finally, we constructed a common core gene-miRNA network using the human microRNA disease database (HMDD) and TarBase.

Results

Using WGCNA, four modules were identified as important modules for SLE and DLBCL. Enrichment analysis of the shared genes showed that the highly activated NF-κB pathway was a common feature of the pathophysiology. Four core shared genes, namely, PSMB10, PSMB4, TAF10, and NFΚBIA, were screened out. These core shared genes were significantly upregulated in both diseases, and they may be potential diagnostic markers of DLBCL. The core gene-miRNA network showed that miR-155–5p, regulating the shared NF-κB pathway, may play an important role in the susceptibility of SLE patients to DLBCL.

Conclusion

The present study revealed that NF-κB pathway in SLE may be a crucial susceptible factor for DLBCL. In addition, we identified PSMB10, PSMB4, TAF10, NFΚBIA and miR-155 involved in the common pathogenesis as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for DLBCL.
Functional outcomes of residual varus alignment versus mechanical alignment in total knee arthroplasty for varus osteoarthritis: A preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses-compliant meta-analysis
Authors: Han Seung-Beom , Jang Ki-Mo , Kim Jun-Hyun , Kim Sang-Bum , Shin Kyun-Ho
Published: July 2022

Background

One in five patients with mechanical alignment (MA) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was reportedly dissatisfied. As constitutional varus knees are common, restoring the patients’ natural residual varus (RV) alignment is as an appealing alternative to neutral MA. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of RV alignment on the functional outcomes compared with those of MA in TKA for the knees with varus osteoarthritis.

Methods

The MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases were comprehensively searched for papers comparing the effects of RV alignment and MA on the functional outcomes from the time of inception of the databases to July 2020. Studies comparing the functional outcomes in the knees subjected to TKA with RV alignment (case group) and MA (control group) were included. The Knee Society knee and functional scores (KSKS and KSFS, respectively), Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Oxford knee score (OKS), and forgotten joint score (FJS) were compared.

Results

Seven studies were finally included; all studies showed a low risk of selection bias and provided detailed demographic data. The pooled mean difference in the KSKS (0.06, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.14 to 0.27; p = 0.55) and KSFS (0.08, 95% CI: −0.08 to 0.35; p = 0.56) between RV alignment and MA did not significantly differ. The pooled mean differences in the WOMAC (−0.25, 95% CI: −0.57 to 0.07; p = 0.12), OKS (0.06, 95% CI: −0.15 to 0.27; p = 0.56), and FJS (0.41, 95% CI: −0.18 to 1.00; p = 0.18) between the groups were not significant.

Conclusion

The beneficial effects of RV alignment on the functional outcomes are limited compared to those of MA in TKA for varus osteoarthritis to date. Currently, TKA with neutral MA should be considered as the gold standard.
Improving Environmental Outcomes With Games: An Exploration of Behavioural and Technological Design and Evaluation Approaches
Authors: de Salas Kristy , Ashbarry Louise , Seabourne Mikaela , Lewis Ian , Wells Lindsay , Dermoudy Julian , Roehrer Erin , Springer Matthew , Sauer James D. , Scott Jenn
Published: July 2022

Background

To overcome the high failure rate of gameful interventions, we need to better understand their design and evaluation strategies to build an evidence-base for best-practice approaches that bring about meaningful change. This systematic review asks: ‘What behavioural and technological design and evaluation theories and approaches are applied in games developed to bring about positive environmental outcomes?’.

Method

We reviewed 52 papers published between 2015 and 2020 that used gameful interventions to improve behaviour related to environmental outcomes. These papers were analysed to review the behavioural and technical design, and the assessment and evaluation approaches, employed by the intervention designers.

Results

We found that these publications report on simple aspects of the behavioural and technical design behind the intervention but fail to justify their design choices in terms of theory and evidence. Furthermore, variability across their evaluation approaches and outcomes exists.

Discussion

This review highlights several systemic flaws in the literature that limit our understanding of gameful interventions in the pro-environmental context. First, based on this review, we cannot be convinced that these interventions were designed according to best practice for intervention design or for technology development. Second, the justification for proposing a gameful intervention is not always clear. Finally, it is unclear whether these interventions are being evaluated based on best practice. Thus, it is not clear that we can draw confident conclusions about evidence-based outcomes of short-term engagement (in structural gamification interventions) or long-term behaviour change (in content gamification and serious game interventions).
Interventions for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Arousal and Reactivity Symptoms in Adults with a History of Childhood Adversity: Scoping Review
Authors: Velasquez Jose E. , Dosanjh Laura H. , Franklin Cynthia
Published: July 2022

Purpose: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) predispose individuals to adult-onset posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with amplified arousal and reactivity symptoms (A&R). This review aimed to identify interventions for reducing A&R symptoms in adults diagnosed with PTSD and a history of ACEs. Method: Systematic scoping review of RCT and quasi-experimental studies in peer-reviewed journals using Arksey and O’Malley’s 5-Stage Framework. Extracted data were analyzed descriptively and thematically. Results: Five articles met inclusion criteria. Skills training in affect and interpersonal regulation (STAIR) with exposure, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-PE), Interpersonal Processing Group Therapy (IPG), and Trauma-informed yoga interventions were identified. STAIR ( d = −1.45, 95% CI [−2.10, −0.80), CBT-PE ( d = −1.21, 95% CI [−1.92, −0.51]), and IPG ( d = −1.33, 95% CI [−2.07, −0.58]) had large effects on A&R symptoms. Discussion: CBT exposure-based treatments were supported interventions for reducing A&R symptoms in adults diagnosed with PTSD and a history of ACEs.
Atypical presentation of juvenile multiple sclerosis in a patient with COVID-19
Authors: Carta Arturo , Bellucci Carlo , Tagliavini Viola , Turco Emanuela Claudia , Farci Roberta , Cerasti Davide , Bozzetti Francesca , Mora Paolo
Published: July 2022

Purpose

To report our experience with a case of a very atypical clinical onset of multiple sclerosis in a young boy during a COVID-19 infection.

Case report

A 16-year-old boy was referred to our ophthalmology clinic with a complete isolated bilateral horizontal gaze palsy. The condition had onset suddenly 2 weeks prior and he had no associated symptoms, as well as no significant medical history. His corrected visual acuity was 0.0 logMAR in both eyes. While hospitalized, he was found infected with COVID-19. Subsequent brain MRI showed multiple lesions typical of a yet undiagnosed MS, as well as an active pontine plaque which was highly probable the cause of the horizontal gaze palsy. High-dose steroid treatment was initiated 1 week later, after the patient exhibited negative COVID-19 test results.

Conclusion

Clinical manifestations of MS are rarely seen in male teenagers and only a few cases of isolated bilateral horizontal gaze palsy have been reported as the initial manifestation, but never during concomitant COVID-19 infection. We presume that the presence of COVID-19 may have been a neuroinflammatory trigger of underlying MS.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Computer Vision Syndrome Among Academic Staff in the University of Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia: An Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tesfaye Amensisa Hailu , Alemayehu Mekuriaw , Abere Giziew , Mekonnen Tesfaye Hambisa
Published: July 2022

Introduction:

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is the leading occupational hazard of the 21st century, which causes the critical public health issues in the present era. In developing countries, including Ethiopia, data on the proportion and the causes of CVS are scarce among academic staff for policy conclusions. Accordingly, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence and factors associated with CVS among academic staff at the University of Gondar.

Methods:

Institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from March to April, 2021. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 525 study participants. Data were collected using a pre-tested self-administered structured questionnaire. The collected data were then entered into EpiData version 4.6 and analyzed using STATA version 14 software. The association between dependent and independent variables was computed with a binary logistic regression.

Results:

The prevalence of CVS was found to be 78.8% out of a total of 500 participants [95% CI (74.95, 82.30)], of which the majority (71.60%) of them were males. Using a computer for more than 9 years [AOR = 1.65, 95% CI (1.01, 2.71)], using visual display terminals [AOR = 2.63, 95% CI (1.60, 4.32)], and working in improper illumination levels (300 and >500 lux) [AOR = 2.47, 95% CI (1.47, 4.33)] increased the risk of CVS, whereas, Using eye droplets [AOR = 0.30, 95% CI (0.15, 0.58)] and taking rest breaks [AOR = 0.55, 95% CI (0.34-0.92)] were protective factors.

Conclusion:

This study disclosed that CVS was common among academicians. In the current study, the manifestation of CVS was affected by years of computer use, visual display terminals use, workplace illumination level, rest breaks, and eye droplets. Taking rest breaks in between the work, reducing exposure to display screens, use of eye drops, and optimizing workplace illumination levels are recommended to reduce the problem.
Therapeutic Strategies for Resectable Stage-IIIA N2 Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shen Ziyang , Lu Ya , Sui Ying , Feng Sitong , Feng Jifeng , Zhou Jinrong
Published: July 2022

Background:

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines did not give an explicit comparison of the efficacy between surgery and radiotherapy in treating Stage-III N2 non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, leaving a paucity for clinical reference. Through this study, we try to locate the optimum treatment strategy including surgical type for these patients.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was performed from PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Google Scholars. The endpoints were overall survival (OS), mean OS, and progression-free survival (PFS). The treatments comprised radiotherapy, lobectomy, and pneumonectomy. Network meta-analysis was carried out for calculating the odds ratio (OR) for binary variants. All the analyses implemented Stata 17.0 MP.

Results:

Eight clinical trials reporting 1756 patients met the inclusion criteria. Radiotherapy and surgery were equivalent in improving patients’ OS (OR = 0.842, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.645, 1.099]). The mean OS of patients were similar in terms of radiotherapy, lobectomy, and pneumonectomy. Besides, radiotherapy and surgery had equivalent effects in improving PFS (OR = 0.896, 95% CI: [0.718, 1.117]).

Conclusions:

Since lobectomy and pneumonectomy following neoadjuvant treatments had equivalent efficacy in prolonging OS for patients with stage-IIIA N2 NSCLC compared with definitive radiotherapy, young patients with favorable performance status (0) should try surgery to pursue better prognosis while elderly patients with unfavorable PS or radiosensitive pathology types should accept definitive radiotherapy. More high-quality clinical trials are needed to support our findings.
Affect and queer intimate entanglements in national-neoliberal Estonia
Authors: Marling Raili , Põldsam Rebeka
Published: July 2022

This article examines the affective entanglements and queer/ed intimacies in post-Soviet Estonia by analyzing ethnographic fieldwork. To build an intersectionally engaged analysis, the article employs Karen Barad’s agential realist model of intra-actions to show how intimate relationships are tied to socio-economic status and cultural setting. In Estonia, intimacy is framed by a homophobic discourse that erases anything but heteronormativity. This public erasure produces, on the one hand, moral panics and, on the other hand, affectively complex intimate entanglements among queer/ed subjects. The empirical analysis discusses conversations with five straight and queer women that contain rich affective narratives. It investigates how a person’s economic situation relates to their intimate relationship choice in a social sphere that is dominated by nationalist discourse and neoliberal rationality. This has created contradictory affective responses that are unpacked and contextualized in the article.