bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Follow up of Renal and Other Acute Organ Failure in Survivors of Critical Illness Due to Covid-19
Authors: Chand Sudham , Kapoor Sumit , Naqvi Ali , Thakkar Jyotsana , Fazzari Melissa J. , Orsi Deborah , Dieiev Vladyslav , Lewandowski David C. , Dicpinigaitis Peter V.
Published: December 2021

Background

Little is known about the long-term health sequelae and outcomes of various organ failures in ICU survivors of Covid-19. The aim of our research was to study the characteristics of 120-day ICU survivors of the initial pandemic surge and report their long term (>6 months) outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a telephone questionnaire-based follow up study of 120- day survivors of Covid-19 admitted to ICUs at Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY from 3/10/2020 to 4/11/2020. The study period was 2 months (11/1/2020-12/31/2020).

Results

126 out of 300 (42%) survived to 120-days post-hospital discharge. The median age of survivors was 54 (47-61) years. Seventy-eight (62%) patients developed acute kidney injury (AKI); thirty-five (44.9%) of them required renal replacement therapy (RRT). One hundred-five (83.3%) required invasive mechanical ventilation; ten of them required tracheotomy. 103 (81.7%) completed the telephone questionnaire-based study, at a median (IQR) of 216.5 (200-234.5) days after hospital discharge. 29 (28.2%) patients reported persistent shortness of breath, 24, (23.3%) complained of persistent cough, and persistent anosmia in 9 (8.8%). AKI resolved completely in 58 (74.4%) patients. Of 35 AKI patients who required initiation of RRT during hospitalization, 27 (77%) were liberated from RRT and 20 (57%) had resolution of AKI. Of 20 patients without AKI resolution, 12 developed chronic kidney disease, whereas 8 still require RRT. Thirty-three (32.4%) patients developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and 10 (11.8%) reported major depression. Many of the patients (68%) regained baseline functional status. Readmissions occurred in 22.3% patients within first 6 months after discharge.

Conclusion

Persistent symptoms of long Covid have been reported in ICU survivors of Covid-19 for extended durations. Outcomes of Covid-19 associated acute kidney injury are excellent. There is a high incidence of PTSD and depression in COVID-19 ICU survivors. Functional outcomes are good, but these patients remain at increased risk of hospital readmission.
On the Construct-Related Validity of Implicit Trait Policies
Authors: Freudenstein Jan-Philipp , Mussel Patrick , Krumm Stefan
Published: December 2021

In response to recent calls to incorporate Implicit Trait Policies (ITPs) into personality research, the current study examined the construct-related validity of ITP measures. ITPs are defined as implicit beliefs about the effectiveness of behaviors that reflect a certain trait. They are assessed by utilizing the methodology of Situational Judgment Tests. We empirically examined ( N = 339) several underlying key assumptions of ITP theory, including trait-specificity, the relation to personality traits, their context-independence, and the relation to general domain knowledge. Overall, our results showed little support for these assumptions. Although we found some confirmation for expected correlations between ITPs and personality traits, most of the observed variance in ITP measures was either method-specific or due to measurement error. We conclude that the herein examined ITP measures lack construct-related validity and discuss implications for ITP theory and assessment.
COVID-19 and antiphospholipid antibodies: A position statement and management guidance from AntiPhospholipid Syndrome Alliance for Clinical Trials and InternatiOnal Networking (APS ACTION)
Authors: Wang Xin , Gkrouzman Elena , Andrade Danieli Castro Oliveira , Andreoli Laura , Barbhaiya Medha , Belmont H Michael , Branch David Ware , de Jesús Guilherme R , Efthymiou Maria , Ríos-Garcés Roberto , Gerosa Maria , El Hasbani Georges , Knight Jason , Meroni Pier Luigi , Pazzola Giulia , Petri Michelle , Rand Jacob , Salmon Jane , Tektonidou Maria , Tincani Angela , Uthman Imad W , Zuily Stephane , Zuo Yu , Lockshin Michael , Cohen Hannah , Erkan Doruk ,   on Behalf of APS ACTION
Published: December 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with a high rate of thrombosis. Prolonged activated partial thromboplastin times (aPTT) and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are reported in COVID-19 patients. The majority of publications have not reported whether patients develop clinically relevant persistent aPL, and the clinical significance of new aPL-positivity in COVID-19 is currently unknown. However, the reports of aPL-positivity in COVID-19 raised the question whether common mechanisms exist in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). In both conditions, thrombotic microangiopathy resulting in microvascular injury and thrombosis is hypothesized to occur through multiple pathways, including endothelial damage, complement activation, and release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETosis). APS-ACTION, an international APS research network, created a COVID-19 working group that reviewed common mechanisms, positive aPL tests in COVID-19 patients, and implications of COVID-19 infection for patients with known aPL positivity or APS, with the goals of proposing guidance for clinical management and monitoring of aPL-positive COVID-19 patients. This guidance also serves as a call and focus for clinical and basic scientific research.
Studying effects of joint characteristics on the performance of a cantilever beam shaped piezoelectric energy harvester through joint identification
Authors: Dehnad Masoud , Jahani Kamal , Sadeghi Morteza , Afagh Fred F
Published: December 2021

In energy harvesting systems, specifications of the generated electrical energy depend on the structure’s dynamics. This dependence can be used to identify the system’s joint characteristics. To this end, an innovative frequency-response-function (FRF) based identification method is presented. The investigated system is a cantilever beam shaped structure with an embedded bimorph piezoelectric bender, connected to a base via bolted joint as a depiction for wing of a UAV connected to fuselage. The implemented FRF is ratio of the piezoelectric output voltage to the base input displacement. The joint identification procedure consists of analytical modeling of the system with joint, experimental testing of the system and a real-coded Genetic Algorithm (GA) method. The joint is modeled as a combination of longitudinal and torsional springs, whose stiffnesses are obtained using the GA method. The obtained results indicate that the analytical model has good correlation with the experimental data. Then, effects of the joint characteristics on the energy harvester’s performance are investigated by comparison of the system with two different joint assumptions, namely, rigid and realistic joint. Finally, the effects of various joint characteristics on the energy harvester’s performance are presented and approaches to achieve the maximum performance of the system are suggested.
Accuracy and precision: A new view on kinematic assessment of solid-state hinges and compliant mechanisms
Authors: Campanile Lucio Flavio , Kirmse Stephanie , Hasse Alexander
Published: December 2021

Compliant mechanisms are alternatives to conventional mechanisms which exploit elastic strain to produce desired deformations instead of using moveable parts. They are designed for a kinematic task (providing desired deformations) but do not possess a kinematics in the strict sense. This leads to difficulties while assessing the quality of a compliant mechanism’s design. The kinematics of a compliant mechanism can be seen as a fuzzy property. There is no unique kinematics, since every deformation need a particular force system to act; however, certain deformations are easier to obtain than others. A parallel can be made with measurement theory: the measured value of a quantity is not unique, but exists as statistic distribution of measures. A representative measure of this distribution can be chosen to evaluate how far the measures divert from a reference value. Based on this analogy, the concept of accuracy and precision of compliant systems are introduced and discussed in this paper. A quantitative determination of these qualities based on the eigenvalue analysis of the hinge’s stiffness is proposed. This new approach is capable of removing most of the ambiguities included in the state-of-the-art assessment criteria (usually based on the concepts of path deviation and parasitic motion).
American Indian Behavioral Health Treatment Preferences as Perceived by Urban Indian Health Program Providers
Authors: Pomerville Andrew , Kawennison Fetter Anna , Gone Joseph P.
Published: December 2021

Behavioral health services specifically targeted for ethnoracial clients are typically tailored to the specific needs and preferences of these populations; however, little research has been done with American Indian clients specifically. To better understand how clinicians handle provision of treatment to this population, we interviewed 28 behavioral health staff at six Urban Indian Health Programs in the United States and conducted focus groups with 23 staff at five such programs. Thematic analysis of transcripts from these interviews and focus groups suggests that these staff attempt to blend and tailor empirically supported treatments with American Indian cultural values and practices where possible. Simultaneously, staff try to honor the client’s specific preferences and needs and to encourage clients to seek cultural practices and connection outside of the therapy room. In so doing staff members were acutely aware of the limitations of the evidence base and the lack of research with American Indian clients.
Signaling News Outlet Credibility in a Google Search
Authors: Masullo Gina M. , Lee Taeyoung , Riedl Martin J.
Published: December 2021

This study extends the literature on how transparency influences news credibility perceptions by examining trust signals at the news outlet level, rather than at the story level, as earlier research has done. Experiments in the United States ( n = 1,037) and Germany ( n = 1,000) found that exposure to trust signals in a Google search about a known news brand, rather than an unknown brand, and the German cultural context increased news credibility perceptions. Participants were more likely to click on trust signals that gave background about the news brand or offered ways to engage with a news outlet.
Local Government's Resource Commitment to Environmental Sustainability: Capacity, Conservatism, and Contractual Dynamics
Authors: Cho Wonhyuk , Kim Daewook , Y. S. Park Angela
Published: December 2021

Local governments are leading sustainability efforts through a range of initiatives, often voluntarily. While a spate of research exists to explain what drives these voluntary decisions, we are still limited in understanding how localities follow through with the resources to implement their adopted plans. This is particularly the case for environment and climate protection programs that are transboundary in nature and thus require more innovative and longer-term approaches than those that are relatively low-cost and easier to implement with future savings. This research examines local investment in promoting three of these program areas: air quality, biodiversity preservation, and ecological restoration. It investigates how local governments vary according to resource commitment and what factors explain those variations. We find several factors significant, including community capacity, political ideology, and institutional arrangements for service production and delivery. Variations are, however, found across different types of resource commitment, suggesting a more complex picture of local resource availability for advancing sustainability efforts.
Ovarian and uterine two-dimensional and Doppler ultrasonographic changes in the feline peri-estrus period
Authors: Vercellini Rosario , Blanco Paula G , Arizmendi Analía , Diez Marisa , Rodríguez Raúl , Gobello Cristina
Published: December 2021

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate two-dimensional and Doppler ultrasonographic changes of the ovary and uterus during estrus and the early post-estrus period in domestic cats.

Methods

Two-dimensional and Doppler ultrasonographic evaluations of the ovaries and uterus were performed in seven queens on days 1, 3 and 5 of estrus, and 5 days after estrus (AE5).

Results

On day 1, 5.4 ± 0.5 follicles of 2.1 ± 0.1 mm were detected progressively increasing in number and size up to day 5 and then decreased on AE5 ( P <0.05). A maximum follicular diameter of 4.1 ± 0.1 mm was achieved on day 5. Both during and after estrus, the uterus was generally hypoechoic compared with the surrounding tissues and delineated by a thin hyperechoic line corresponding to the serosa. In some animals, the uterine layers were distinguished during and after estrus. The blood flow waveforms of the intraovarian and uterine arteries were characterized by a systolic peak and diastolic flow extending throughout the remainder of the cardiac cycle to the next systole. In the uterine artery waveforms, the early diastolic notch was mild or absent during most estrous observations. The resistance index of the intraovarian arteries decreased up to day 5, and then increased on AE5 ( P <0.05). The resistance index of the uterine arteries was lower during estrus than in the post-estrus period ( P <0.05).

Conclusions and relevance

It is concluded that in the domestic cat, follicular number and diameter as well as ovarian and uterine blood flow changed during and immediately after estrus. Doppler ultrasound proved suitable to evaluate the hemodynamic changes involved in the cyclic remodeling of ovarian and uterine tissues that occurs during and after follicular growth in domestic cats.
The Batwa Trail: developing agency and cultural self-determination in Uganda through Indigenous tourism and cultural performance
Authors: Kagumba Andrew Kalyowa
Published: December 2021

This article examines how Batwa—the Indigenous peoples of Southwestern Uganda—negotiate agency and cultural self-determination through touristic cultural performances held during the Batwa Trail, an Indigenous tourist attraction in Mgahinga Forest, Southwestern Uganda. I take a theoretical model that approaches Indigenous tourism and touristic cultural performances as a site of social interaction where identity and representation are negotiated. The touristic performances are crucial in articulating Batwa performance culture and as a forum where counter-narratives against the stereotypes and marginalities associated with Batwa culture are constructed. I argue that touristic performances are a strategic form of experiential and embodied practice through which Batwa identity is negotiated and expressed.
Perspective changes through transcultural mediation training: A qualitative study of trainees, instructors, and experts
Authors: Ogrizek Anaïs , Moro Marie Rose , Bouznah Serge , Lachal Jonathan
Published: December 2021

To deal with cultural misunderstandings in health care due to increased migration, the Babel Centre—a training and mediation center—developed “transcultural mediation”: a service meant to help health-care professionals encountering difficulties with migrant patients and their families. One of the center's health-care professionals, trained as a mediator, and a cultural broker jointly conduct the mediation session. In 2017, the center initiated a specialized training program to teach health-care professionals the skills needed to serve as transcultural mediators. We conducted a study to evaluate, through the trainees’ and instructors’ subjective experiences, the quality of this innovative training. We used semi-structured interviews and focus groups to question seven trainees, three instructors, and three experts in transcultural psychology at different stages of the 10-month program (before, at midpoint, and afterwards). We used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to explore the data. The themes are organized around the central concept of the transmission of knowledge from instructors to trainees and vice versa. Trainees were globally satisfied with this program by its end but did not feel able to lead a mediation by then, due to insufficient anthropology knowledge and practical training. Training in transcultural mediation resembles that for resolving situational problems. It cannot be taught by an approach based on reasoning by the inverse problem method, used for teaching medical sciences. Pedagogical tools more suited to problem solving, such as role-playing or use of senior-assisted mediations, should be used to improve the quality of this training.
‘Four walls and a garden’: Exploring the experiences of families affected by dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Cousins Emily , de Vries Kay , Harrison Dening Karen
Published: December 2021

Introduction

When the first national COVID-19 lockdown came into effect in the UK in March 2020, life changed significantly. Some services and social contacts for people with dementia and their families stopped, while others, for example, peer support, moved online. This research explored the experiences of families affected by dementia during the pandemic, specifically those living in the community.

Aims

In partnership with a community dementia charity, this study sought to gain an understanding of the experiences of people with dementia and family carers during the COVID-19 pandemic and explore the impact and implications of lockdown on people with dementia and family carers.

Methods

This was a qualitative study that used semi-structured interviews to collect data from people with dementia and family carers. Interviews were conducted online via video call, individually or within caring dyads. Initially, data were coded, analysed and themed inductively. Additionally, social disruption and social division theories were used to deductively identify patterns in the data to enhance understanding.

Findings

Six distinct themes were identified from the inductive analysis: Routine: ‘busy life before lockdown’; Isolation: ‘ four walls and a garden’; Living with restrictions: ‘ treading on eggshells’; Discovering positives: ‘you are in the same boat’; Easing lockdown: ‘ raring to go’; Heightened uncertainty: ‘ things have changed’. Illustrative examples of symptoms of social disruption and division were identified within the data: frustration, democratic disconnection, fragmentation, polarisation and escalation.

Conclusion

Experiences of people with dementia and family carers during the pandemic were mixed, resulting in hopes and worries for the future. Social disruption and social division are relevant frameworks for analysing experiences of COVID-19.
Economy and emission characteristics of the optimal dilution strategy in lean combustion based on GDI gasoline engine equipped with prechamber
Authors: Wang Li , Huang Zhaoming , Tao Wang , Shen Kai , Chen Weiguo
Published: December 2021

EGR and excess-air dilution have been investigated in a 1.5 L four cylinders gasoline direct injection (GDI) turbocharged engine equipped with prechamber. The influences of the two different dilution technologies on the engine performance are explored. The results show that at 2400 rpm and 12 bar, EGR dilution can adopt more aggressive ignition advanced angle to achieve optimal combustion phasing. However, excess-air dilution has greater fuel economy than that of EGR dilution owing to larger in-cylinder polytropic exponent. As for prechamber, when dilution ratio is greater than 37.1%, the combustion phase is advanced, resulting in fuel economy improving. Meanwhile, only when the dilution ratio is under 36.2%, the HC emissions of excess-air dilution are lower than the original engine. With the increase of dilution ratio, the CO emissions decrease continuously. The NOX emissions of both dilution technologies are 11% of those of the original engine. Excess-air dilution has better fuel economy and very low CO emissions. EGR dilution can effectively reduce NOX emissions, but increase HC emissions. Compared with spark plug ignition, the pre chamber ignition has lower HC, CO emissions, and higher NO emissions. At part load, the pre-chamber ignition reduces NOX emissions to 49 ppm.
Impacts of various shaped Cu-nanomaterial on the heat transfer over a bilateral stretchable surface: Numerical investigation
Authors: Adnan  , Khan Umar , Ahmed Naveed , Manzoor Raheela , Mohyud-Din Syed Tauseef
Published: December 2021

The heat transport in the nanofluids attained much interest of the researchers and engineers due to broad uses in medical sciences, paint industries, aerodynamics, wheel alignment and manufacturing of aircraft parts. Therefore, keeping in mind the paramount significance of the heat transfer, the study of Cu-nanomaterials based nanofluid is conducted. The governing nanofluid model transformed in dimensionless version via similarity transformations. For numerical simulation of the dynamics of Cu-H2O, RK technique with shooting algorithm is employed and presented behavior of the fluid motion, temperature, wall shear stresses and local thermal performance rate via graphical aid. It is noted that the heat transfer augmented promptly by increasing [Formula: see text] and volumetric fraction of Cu nanomaterial. Further, graphical and tabular comparison is also provided under certain assumptions which authenticate the study.
Inhibiting spinal secretory phospholipase A2 after painful nerve root injury attenuates established pain and spinal neuronal hyperexcitability by altering spinal glutamatergic signaling
Authors: Kartha Sonia , Ghimire Prabesh , Winkelstein Beth A
Published: December 2021

Neuropathic injury is accompanied by chronic inflammation contributing to the onset and maintenance of pain after an initial insult. In addition to their roles in promoting immune cell activation, inflammatory mediators like secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) modulate nociceptive and excitatory neuronal signaling during the initiation of pain through hydrolytic activity. Despite having a known role in glial activation and cytokine release, it is unknown if sPLA2 contributes to the maintenance of painful neuropathy and spinal hyperexcitability later after neural injury. Using a well-established model of painful nerve root compression, this study investigated if inhibiting spinal sPLA2 7 days after painful injury modulates the behavioral sensitivity and/or spinal dorsal horn excitability that is typically evident. The effects of sPLA2 inhibition on altered spinal glutamatergic signaling was also probed by measuring spinal intracellular glutamate levels and spinal glutamate transporter (GLAST and GLT1) and receptor (mGluR5, GluR1, and NR1) expression. Spinal sPLA2 inhibition at day 7 abolishes behavioral sensitivity, reduces both evoked and spontaneous neuronal firing in the spinal cord, and restores the distribution of neuronal phenotypes to those of control conditions. Inhibiting spinal sPLA2 also increases intracellular glutamate concentrations and restores spinal expression of GLAST, GLT1, mGluR5, and GluR1 to uninjured expression with no effect on NR1. These findings establish a role for spinal sPLA2 in maintaining pain and central sensitization after neural injury and suggest this may be via exacerbating glutamate excitotoxicity in the spinal cord.
The video feedback viewing in novice weightlifters: Total control strategy improves snatch technique during learning
Authors: Souissi Mohamed Abdelkader , Trabelsi Omar , Souissi Hichem , Elghoul Yousri , Ammar Achraf , Chamari Karim , Souissi Nizar
Published: December 2021

This study aimed at comparing the efficiency of two viewing control strategies, total control versus partial control, in correcting the snatch technique in school-aged boys (10–12 years old). Thirty-nine participants, with 2 months of weightlifting training experience, were divided into three groups: total control, partial control, or a control group. The Kinovea version 0.8.15 software was used to measure the kinematic parameters of the snatch technique before (T0) and after six learning sessions (T1). Following the learning sessions, total control group showed greater improvements for all kinematic parameters compared with the partial control and control group (e.g., the horizontal displacement (i) in the first pull (Δ Dx2: 18.17 ± 26.75%, p < 0.01, d = 0.83), (ii) between the first and the second pulls (Δ DxV: 25.97 ± 18.02%, p < 0.001, d = 1.52) and from the most forward position to the catch position (Δ DxL: 19.98 ± 21.60%, p < 0.01, d = 1.36), while the partial group improved only on the Dx2 (Δ Dx2 = 21.53 ± 20.40%, p < 0.01, d = 0.86). The present results indicate that the intensive use of the interactive features (e.g. pause, play, forward, and backward) and the asked questions during the first learning phase were essential for the improvement of the snatch technique. These findings have potential practical implications for coaching and physical education teaching.
Large segmental defects in midshaft clavicle nonunion treated with autologous tricortical iliac crest bone graft
Authors: van der Burg Fleur AE , Baltes Thomas PA , Kloen Peter
Published: December 2021

Background

To evaluate the use of intercalary iliac crest bone graft in the treatment of clavicle nonunion with a large segmental bone defect (3–6 cm).

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated patients with large segmental bone defects (3–6 cm) after clavicle nonunion, treated with open reposition internal fixation and iliac crest bone graft between February 2003 and March 2021. At follow-up the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire was administered. A literature search was performed to provide an overview of commonly used graft types per defect size.

Results

We included five patients treated with open reposition internal fixation and iliac crest bone graft for clavicle nonunion with a median defect size of 3.3 cm (range 3–6 cm). Union was achieved in all five, and all pre-operative symptoms resolved. The median DASH score was 23 out of 100 (IQR 8–24). An extensive literature search revealed that there are no studies describing the use of an used iliac crest graft for defects larger than 3 cm. Instead, a vascularized graft was typically used to treat defects sizes between 2.5 and 8 cm.

Discussion

An autologous non-vascularized iliac crest bone graft can be safely used and is reproducible to treat a midshaft clavicle non-union with a bone defect between 3 and 6 cm.
Acid Orange-7 uptake on spherical-shaped nanocarbons
Authors: Krishnappa Bhavya , Mannekote Shivanna Jyothi , Naik Maya , Padova Paola De , Hegde Gurumurthy
Published: December 2021

Acid-dyes, typically used in textile productions, could infer poisoning harmful effects on the environment as well as on human health, if not properly treated during their disposal. Henceforth, there is an absolute necessity to achieve new efficient low-cost techniques to remove these dyes from industrial chemical waste. Here, the leaves of oil palm, which are abundant in tropical countries, were used as precursor in the development of carbon nanospheres (adsorbent) to remove hazardous acid Orange-7 (AO-7) dye (C16H11N2NaO4S). The removal efficacy of spherical-shaped nanocarbons was investigated as a function of contact period, by varying their dose (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5 mg), pH (acidic, native and basic), and initial AO-7 concentration (10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 μM). Amazingly, the oil palm leaves–based carbon nanospheres removed acid-dye up to an efficiency of about 99%. Pseudo second-order kinetics governs the adsorption mechanism and the Redlich–Peterson isotherm model fits well to the adsorption results, with regression co-efficient close to unity. This study suggests the importance of natural biowaste-based carbon nanoparticles in sustainable recycling, within the worldwide demanded circular economy.
Association between aryl hydrocarbon receptor and 4-hydroxynonenal in oxidative stress-mediated chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Kvarantan Aigerim , Balta Vedran , Zarkovic Neven , Horvat Tea , Vukovic Tea , Zarkovic Kamelija , Kalogjera Livije
Published: December 2021

Objective

Сhronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNPs) is a distinct entity within the chronic rhinosinusitis group of diseases, which are chronic upper airway diseases with several pheno- and endotypes. Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of CRSwNPs. The aim was to assess the association between expression of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) in patients with CRSwNPs.

Methods

The study included 26 patients who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery: Fourteen patients with CRSwNPs, and 12 controls with healthy sinus mucosa. Expression of AhR and 4-HNE was assessed in tissue samples using immunohistochemistry. The level of 4-HNE in serum samples was measured using the ELISA assay. Total oxidative capacity (TOC) was assessed by measuring the peroxidase activity.

Results

Higher levels of 4-HNE expression were observed in tissues (3, range 1–3 vs. 0, range 0–0 p<0.001) and serum (27.7±11.5 vs 9.8±7.7 pmol/mg, p < 0.001) samples of CRSwNPs patients, as compared to healthy controls. Higher expression of AhR was found in inflammatory cells (plasma cells, lymphocytes, eosinopholes) of CRSwNPs patients, compared to controls (3, range 1–3 vs. 2, range 1–2, p = 0.001). There were no differences in TOC across groups (0.0285±0.0207 vs 0.02, 978±0.0197 µM H2O2 eq., p = 0.848). Patients with bronchial asthma (57%) had abundant eosinophil in tissue samples. Patients with recalcitrant CRSwNPs had higher 4-HNE serum levels, compared to non-recalcitrant cases (27.3 vs 24.2 pmol/mg, p = 0.339).

Conclusion

Patients suffering from CRSwNPs have oxidative stress–mediated overexpression of AhR, which is linked to a chronic inflammatory response in the paranasal sinus tissues.
Resuscitation 2020: Proceedings From the NeoHeart 2020 International Conference
Authors: Wyckoff Myra H. , Sawyer Taylor , Lakshminrusimha Satyan , Collins Amélie , Ohls Robin K. , Leone Tina A.
Published: December 2021

Resuscitation guidelines are developed and revised by medical societies throughout the world. These guidelines are increasingly based on evidence from preclinical and clinical research. The International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation reviews evidence for each resuscitation practice and provides summary consensus statements that inform resuscitation guideline committees. A similar process is used for different populations including neonatal, pediatric, and adult resuscitation. The NeoHeart 2020 Conference brought together experts in resuscitation to discuss recent evidence and guidelines for resuscitation practices. This review summarizes the main focus of discussion from this symposium.
Factors Associated With an Abnormal Blood Pressure Response During Exercise After Coarctation Repair
Authors: Pivirotto Mia , Swartz Michael F. , McGreevy Megan B. , Atallah-Yunes Nader , Cholette Jill M. , Lipshultz Steven E. , Alfieris George M.
Published: December 2021

Background

Although resting blood pressures following aortic arch repair or the extended end-to-end anastomosis (EEA) repair for coarctation can be physiologic, factors associated with an abnormal blood pressure response after exercise are unknown. We measured blood pressure gradients following exercise in children who had undergone previous repair in accordance with a surgical selection algorithm and sought to identify factors associated with an abnormal blood pressure response.

Methods

In accordance with our practice's surgical algorithm for repair of coarctation, infants were stratified to aortic arch repair when the distal transverse arch-to-left carotid artery ratio (DTA:LCA) ≤ 1.0, or when a brachiocephalic trunk or intra-cardiac lesion requiring repair was present. A thoracotomy and EEA were otherwise used. A follow-up exercise stress test (EST) measured the arm:leg blood pressure gradient after exercise, and a gradient ≥ 20 mm Hg was defined as an abnormal blood pressure response.

Results

Thirty-seven infants who had previously undergone coarctation repair (aortic arch repair-19, EEA-18) completed an EST at 12.3 ± 2.2 years of age. Thirteen (35%) children (aortic arch repair-5, EEA-8; p = .3) exhibited an abnormal blood pressure response. Factors associated with an abnormal blood pressure response included: smaller DTA:LCA ratios prior to repair (1.0 ± .2 vs. 1.2 ± .3; p = .04) and greater body weight at the time of EST (57.5 ± 19.1 vs. 40.9 ± 15.6 kg; p = .03).

Conclusion

An abnormal blood pressure response following exercise is associated with smaller DTA:LCA ratios at the time of repair and increased weight during follow-up suggesting that patients with these factors warrant close observation.
Choanal Atresia Repair With Stents and Flaps: A Systematic Review Article
Authors: Alsubaie Hemail M. , Almosa Wedyan H. , Al-Qahtani Ali S , Margalani Osama
Published: December 2021

Background

Choanal Atresia is an obliteration by an atretic plate of the posterior choanae due to a failure of the bucconasal membrane to rupture. The insertion of stents post choanal atresia repair is familiar. Still, there are limited studies in the literature that specify the time to remove it, the best materials, and the effectiveness of each kind.

Objective

Our study aims to compare different types of choanal atresia stents and flaps and the outcome of different kinds of stents and flaps that use post-operatively. Also, to assess the risk of restenosis post-operatively with varying types of Stent and flaps.

Methods

A systematic review via databases for different types of stents and flaps used in choanal atresia, including 31 studies with precise technique, variety of stents, restenosis rates, and risk factors (unilaterality, the component of the atretic plate). And about 10 different approaches to flaps reconstruction were mentioned.

Results

According to the data, we observed a successful rate of choanal atresia repair by using the ordinary ETT post-operatively ranged from 28 to 94.2%, which could be explained due to many factors. Post-operative Instructions on care and suctioning provided a good impact. Other types of stents found in case series like steroid eluting stents, Nelaton catheters, Silastic stents, or modified ETT have a promising future during 26 to 39 weeks follow-up. Still, they need further studies with randomization and more data. Flaps with different approaches and techniques showed promising results and fewer complication rates with or without stents, also now have been used in practice providing suitable alternatives for stents.

Conclusion

The original types of choanal atresia stents were shown to have a wide variety of results, while innovative materials of stents showed promising results, however, in relatively small case studies. Flaps were now used in practice giving other choices for stents with fewer complications, better healing, and new choana formation.
The Moderating Role of Attachment in the Associations Between Group Variables and OCB
Authors: Reizer Abira , Oren Lior , Hornik Yonadav
Published: December 2021

The current study expands previous knowledge by investigating the moderating role of attachment styles in the associations between perceived group cohesion, perceived collective efficacy, and changes in the individual report of organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). Data were collected from 180 employees, who took part in a 9-week organizational training course. Upon start of training, participants completed questionnaires assessing their attachment orientations and their individual-level OCB. Upon conclusion, participants completed questionnaires assessing their perceived group cohesion, perceived group efficacy, and OCB. Using hierarchical linear modeling, both group cohesion and efficacy explained the changes in the individual OCB. In addition, attachment anxiety moderated the associations between group efficacy, group cohesion and the changes in OCB. The results emphasize the joint effects of group-and individual-level variables in predicting OCB in a longitudinal design. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Sexual Dimorphisms in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: A Current Concepts Review
Authors: Ellison Tayt M. , Flagstaff Ilexa , Johnson Anthony E.
Published: December 2021

Background:

Although most anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries occur in male athletes, female athletes are consistently observed to be at a higher risk for sports-specific ACL injury.

Purpose:

To provide a thorough review of what is known about the sexual dimorphisms in ACL injury to guide treatment and prevention strategies and future research.

Study Design:

Narrative review.

Methods:

We conducted a comprehensive literature search for ACL-related studies published between January 1982 and September 2017 to identify pertinent studies regarding ACL injury epidemiology, prevention strategies, treatment outcomes, and dimorphisms. By performing a broad ACL injury search, we initially identified 11,453 articles. After applying additional qualifiers, we retained articles if they were published in English after 1980 and focused on sex-specific differences in any of 8 different topics: sex-specific reporting, difference in sports, selective training, hormonal effects, genetics, neuromuscular and kinematic control, anatomic differences, and outcomes.

Results:

A total of 122 articles met the inclusion criteria. In sum, the literature review indicated that female athletes are at significantly higher risk for ACL injuries than are their male counterparts, but the exact reasons for this were not clear. Initial studies focused on intrinsic differences between the sexes, whereas recent studies have shifted to focus on extrinsic factors to explain the increased risk. It is likely both intrinsic and extrinsic factors contribute to this increased risk, but further study is needed. In addition to female patients having an increased risk for ACL injuries, they are less likely than are male patients to undergo reconstructive surgery, and they experience worse postsurgical outcomes. Despite this, reconstructive surgery remains the gold standard when knee stability, return to sports, and high functional outcome scores are the goal, but further research is needed to determine why there is disparity in surgical rates and what surgical techniques optimize postsurgical outcomes for female patients.

Conclusion:

Male athletes often predominated the research concerning ACL injury and treatment, and although sex-specific reporting is progressing, it has historically been deficient. ACL injuries, prevention techniques, and ACL reconstruction require further research to maximize the health potential of at-risk female athletes.
The day 100 score predicts moderate to severe cGVHD, transplant mortality, and survival after hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Metafuni Elisabetta , Cavattoni Irene Maria , Lamparelli Teresa , Raiola Anna Maria , Ghiso Anna , Galaverna Federica , Gualandi Francesca , Di Grazia Carmen , Dominietto Alida , Varaldo Riccardo , Signori Alessio , Chiusolo Patrizia , Sora’ Federica , Giammarco Sabrina , Laurenti Luca , Sica Simona , Angelucci Emanuele , Bacigalupo Andrea
Published: December 2021

The aim of this study was to develop a predictive score for moderate-severe chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) on day +100 after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We studied 1292 patients allografted between 1990 and 2016, alive on day +100 after transplant, without cGVHD, and with full biochemistry laboratory values available. Patients were randomly assigned to a training and a validation cohort (ratio 1:1). In the training cohort, a multivariate analysis identified 4 independent predictors of moderate-severe cGVHD: gamma-glutamyl transferase ≥75 UI/l, creatinine ≥1 mg/dl, cholinesterase ≤4576 UI/l, and albumin ≤4 g/dl. A score of 1 was assigned to each variable, producing a low (0 to 1), intermediate (2 to 3), and high (4) score. The cumulative incidence of moderate-severe cGVHD was 12%, 20%, and 52% (P < .0001) in the training cohort, and 13%, 24%, and 33% (P = .002) in the validation cohort, respectively. The 5-year cumulative incidence of transplant-related mortality (TRM) was 5%, 14%, 27% (P < .0001) and 5%, 16%, 31% (P < .0001), respectively. The 5-year survival was 64%, 57%, 54% (P = .009) and 70%, 59%, 42% (P = .0008) in the 2 cohorts, respectively. In conclusion, Day100 score predicts cGVHD, TRM, and survival and, if validated in a separate group of patients, could be considered for trials of preemptive therapy.
Identification of germline monoallelic mutations in IKZF2 in patients with immune dysregulation
Authors: Shahin Tala , Mayr Daniel , Shoeb Mohamed R. , Kuehn Hye Sun , Hoeger Birgit , Giuliani Sarah , Gawriyski Lisa M. , Petronczki Özlem Yüce , Hadjadj Jérôme , Bal Sevgi Köstel , Zoghi Samaneh , Haimel Matthias , Jimenez Heredia Raul , Boutboul David , Triebwasser Michael P. , Rialland-Battisti Fanny , Costedoat Chalumeau Nathalie , Quartier Pierre , Tangye Stuart G. , Fleisher Thomas A. , Rezaei Nima , Romberg Neil , Latour Sylvain , Varjosalo Markku , Halbritter Florian , Rieux-Laucat Frédéric , Castanon Irinka , Rosenzweig Sergio D. , Boztug Kaan
Published: December 2021

Helios, encoded by IKZF2, is a member of the Ikaros family of transcription factors with pivotal roles in T-follicular helper, NK- and T-regulatory cell physiology. Somatic IKZF2 mutations are frequently found in lymphoid malignancies. Although germline mutations in IKZF1 and IKZF3 encoding Ikaros and Aiolos have recently been identified in patients with phenotypically similar immunodeficiency syndromes, the effect of germline mutations in IKZF2 on human hematopoiesis and immunity remains enigmatic. We identified germline IKZF2 mutations (one nonsense (p.R291X)- and 4 distinct missense variants) in six patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, immune thrombocytopenia or EBV-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Patients exhibited hypogammaglobulinemia, decreased number of T-follicular helper and NK cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing of PBMCs from the patient carrying the R291X variant revealed upregulation of proinflammatory genes associated with T-cell receptor activation and T-cell exhaustion. Functional assays revealed the inability of HeliosR291X to homodimerize and bind target DNA as dimers. Moreover, proteomic analysis by proximity-dependent Biotin Identification revealed aberrant interaction of 3/5 Helios mutants with core components of the NuRD complex conveying HELIOS-mediated epigenetic and transcriptional dysregulation.
Intravesical ichthyosis: a rare case report
Authors: Hermans T. , grosse Siemer R. , von Rundstedt F. C.
Published: December 2021

Background

Ichthyosis is a rare skin disorder, in which the shedding of squamous cells is altered. Intravesical ichthyosis is an extremely rare condition. There is evidence for an association with intravesical condylomata accuminata, caused by urogenital infections of the human papilloma virus. These lesions are generally benign but known to be of a carcinogenic potential and therefore should be treated immediately and followed-up closely.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 39-year-old woman who presented with recurrent urinary tract infections. During cystoscopy diffuse black pigmented flat bladder tumours were visualized. After transurethral resection the pathological report diagnosed an ichthyosis vesicae.

Conclusion

We recommend a complete resection with frequent clinical and cystoscopic follow-up. Furthermore, testing for the human papilloma virus should be performed and a vaccination should be offered to the patient. As ichthyosis vesicae is a rare phenomenon, there is an evident lack of clinical data regarding therapy, prognosis and follow-up. With our report, we want to emphasize the need for further research.
Denonvilliers’ fascia acts as the fulcrum and hammock for continence after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Lu Xuwei , He Chang , Zhang Sihong , Yang Fan , Guo Zhuifeng , Huang Jiaqi , He Minke , Wu Jiawen , Sheng Xia , Lin Wenyao , Cheng Jie , Guo Jianming , Wang Hang
Published: December 2021

Background

Radical prostatectomy (RP) is the primary treatment of localized prostate cancer. Immediate urinary incontinence post-RP was still common and depressing without specific reason.

Methods

A multicenter cohort of 154 consecutive patients from 2018 to 2020, who was diagnosed with localized prostate cancer underwent either modified mini-incision retropubic radical prostatectomy (Mmi-RRP) or laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) or robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Seventy-two patients with Denonvilliers’ fascia (DF) spared were included in DFS (Denonvilliers’ fascia sparing) group. Whereas eighty-two patients with DF completely or partially dissected were set as Group Control. The primary outcome was immediate continence (ImC). Continuous data and categorical data were analyzed with t-test and Chi-square test, respectively. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated with logistic regression.

Results

Urinary continence of Group DFS was significantly better than that of Group Control at each time point within one year after operation. Incidence rate of continence in Group DFS and Group Control were 83.3% vs 13.4% (P < 0.01) for ImC, 90.3% vs 30.5% (P < 0.01) at 3 months, 91.7% vs 64.6% (P < 0.01) at 6 months, and 93.1% vs 80.5% (P = 0.02) at 1 year after operation, respectively. Positive surgical margin (PSM) showed no significant difference (20.8% vs 20.7%, P = 1.0). In multivariate analysis, DFS showed importance for ImC post RP (OR = 26.4, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Denonvilliers’ fascia acted as the fulcrum and hammock for continence post RP. Preservation of DF contributed to better continence after RP without increase of PSM.

Trail registration Our research was conducted retrospectively and approved by the ethical committees of Minhang Hospital, but not registered.
Translation and validation of modified dental anxiety scale based on adult Taiwan population
Authors: Lin Chia-Shu , Lee Chen-Yi , Wu Shih-Yun , Chen Li-Ling , Lee Kun-Tsung , Wang Min-Ching , Wang Tze-Fang
Published: December 2021

Background

Dental anxiety is associated with negative experiences of dental treatment and dental-visiting behavior. The Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) is widely used for assessing dental anxiety. The study aims to establish the psychometric properties of a Chinese version of the MDAS based on the Taiwan sample (i.e., T-MDAS).

Methods

The T-MDAS and dental-visiting behavior and experience were assessed for 402 adult subjects recruited from community and clinical sites. The following psychometric properties were assessed: (a) internal consistency, (b) temporal stability, (c) criterion-related validity (i.e., the association with the score of Index of Dental Anxiety and Fear, IDAF-4C), (d) discrimination validity (i.e., the difference in scores between the subjects with and without a habit of a regular dental visit, and (e) the construct validity from a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Results. The T-MDAS showed good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.88) and temporal stability (ρ = 0.69, p < 0.001). The score was significantly correlated with the score of the IDAF-4C (ρ = 0.76, p < 0.001) and differed between subjects who regularly visited a dentist or not, supporting good criterion-related validity and discrimination validity. Results from CFA supports good construct validity. Furthermore, higher dental anxiety was related to the lack of a regular dental visit, feeling pain during treatment, and feeling insufficient skills and empathy of dentists. A higher proportion of high-dental anxiety subjects in female subjects (8.5%), compared to male subjects (5.0%), was noted.

Conclusions

The T-MDAS is a valid tool for assessing adult dental anxiety. The score is highly associated with dental-visiting behavior and experience of dental patients.