bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profiling of Immunomodulatory Genes and Quantification of CD25+ Cells in Different Types of Early Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Ozer Erdener , Kanit Naz , Cevizci Mustafa Cuneyt , Cagliyan Erkan , Mifsud William
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

Maternal regulatory T (Treg) cells play a pivotal role in establishing general immune homeostasis in the decidua for maintenance of pregnancy. We aimed in this study to investigate the relationship between mRNA expression of immunomodulatory genes and CD25+ Treg cells with early pregnancy losses.

Methods:

Our study included 3 groups of early pregnancy losses including sporadic spontaneous abortions, recurrent spontaneous abortions, sporadic spontaneous abortions post IVF treatment and the control group. We performed RT-PCR for analyzing mRNA expression levels of 6 immunomodulatory genes and CD25 immunohistochemistry for quantification of Treg cells.

Results:

Only FOXP3, CD274 (PDL1), and TGFβ1 mRNA expression levels were significantly decreased in the miscarriage groups in comparison to the control group, whereas there was no significant mRNA expression change of CD4, IL2RA, and IL10. We also found significantly lower number of CD25+ cells in the miscarriages.

Conclusion:

We conclude that decreased expression of FOXP3 and PD-L1 may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of spontaneous abortion cases whereas decreased expression of TGFβ1 gene may be associated with the occurrence of early loss in IVF-treated pregnancies. Additional immunoprofiling of Treg cell population is needed to quantify Treg cells in early pregnancy losses.
Evolving Landscape of Partnerships of U.S. Destination Marketing Websites: External Hyperlinks From 1999 to 2018
Authors: Zach Florian J. , Baggio Rodolfo , Xiang Zheng
Published: March 2023

Hyperlinks to external websites are a reflection of partnerships of destination marketing organizations (DMOs). This longitudinal study investigates the external hyperlinks placed on the home page of U.S. state tourism websites from 1999 to 2018. Our analysis shows that the landscape of DMO partnerships underwent considerable growth; however, the growth was distributed unevenly among categories of partners, particularly as social media became increasingly dominant. State DMOs appeared to be changing their external partnerships quite often, while their strategy was likely influenced by technological innovation, policy, and destination-specific issues. Based on these findings, the authors discuss the study implications and provide suggestions for future research.
A Dialectic of Vulnerability and Resilience: Nonresidential Fathers Living in Poverty in Israel
Authors: Yona Lital , Nadan Yochay
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of poverty-stricken Israeli nonresidential fathers raising their children in a disadvantaged neighborhood characterized by poverty and hardship. Using a case study design, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 nonresidential fathers living in poverty. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed, and two themes emerged. The first focuses on the challenges and barriers to the fathers’ involvement in their children’s lives. The second focuses on the elements that create support networks in the neighborhood context. Our findings suggest the importance of adopting an intersectional perspective on manhood and fatherhood. This could facilitate a better understanding of the complex experience of nonresidential fathers living in poverty by exploring issues of power relations and oppression while remaining sensitive to differences both within and among social groups.
Trabeculectomy in first trimester of pregnancy: A case report
Authors: Kumar Harsh , Singh Swati , Taneja Surbi
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Glaucoma management in pregnancy is a challenging task for the ophthalmologist. With limited studies due to ethical concerns, the exact management protocols are not well established. Surgery has been mentioned as an option in 2nd trimester and is avoided in 1st trimester due to the detrimental effect on organogenesis of fetus and the harmful effects of anaesthesia.

Methods

A 26 year old woman with advanced glaucomatous damage underwent trabeculectomy without antifibrotic agent in first trimester of pregnancy.

Results

The intraocular pressures (IOP) were well controlled during pregnancy with no need of addiitional antiglaucoma medications. She delivered a healthy baby at term with no congenital abnormality.

Conclusion

Trabeculectomy without antifibrotic agents can be done in first trimester of pregnancy in cases where IOP cannot be controlled with topical antiglaucoma drugs that are considered safe during this period. This is the first report in literature on trabeculectomy in first trimester of pregnancy.
Prevalence of significant pathology on MRI of brain and orbits in patients presenting with visual disturbance
Authors: Whitlow S. , Haughey A. , O’Connor J. , Killeen RP.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The aim of our study was to determine the frequency and variety of abnormalities detected on MRI studies of the brain and orbits (MRBO), in patients referred for investigation of visual disturbance from a tertiary ophthalmology centre in Ireland. A secondary objective was to assess the various imaging pathologies identified in this cohort of patients.

Methods

The inclusion criteria were patients who underwent an Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain or MRI brain and orbits over a 12-month period for investigation of first episode of visual disturbance, who were over 18 years of age, with visual disturbance of unknown aetiology. Statistical analysis was performed to calculate the percentage of abnormalities and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). Additionally, logistic regression was used to investigate any association between age, gender and the pathologies which presented.

Results

135 MRI brain and orbit examinations fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Abnormalities were identified on 86 of the 135 examinations (63.7%; 95% CI: 55.3% to 71.3%). Nonspecific T2 hyperintensities were identified on 28 (20.7%) of the examinations, 13 (9.6%) examinations showed images suggestive of demyelination and 11 (8.1%) showed optic neuropathy. The logistic regression analysis showed no evidence of an association between age (p = 0.223), gender (p = 0.307) and abnormalities in this study.

Conclusion

This represents a relatively high detection rate of abnormalities on MRBO when compared with similar studies and shows the important role MRI has in patients with a visual disturbance.
Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Factors Among Elderly in Ethiopia
Authors: Wolde Asrat
Published: March 2023

Background:

The aim of this study was to investigate the magnitude and associated factors of alcohol use disorder among the elderly living in 3 towns in South West Ethiopia.

Method:

Cross-sectional community-based study was done among 382 elderly people aged 60 or more from February to March 2022 in South West Ethiopia. The participants were selected by a systematic random sampling method. Alcohol use disorder, quality of sleep, cognitive impairment, and depression were assessed by using AUDIT, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Standardized Mini Mental State Examination, and geriatric depression scale, respectively. Also, suicidal behavior, elder abuse, and other clinical and environmental factors were assessed. The data was entered into Epi Data Manager Version 4.0.2 before being exported to SPSS Version 25 for analysis. A logistic regression model was used, and variables with a P-value less than .05 in the final fitting model were stated as independent predictors of alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Result:

The magnitude of alcohol use disorder, current alcohol use, and life-time alcohol use among the elderly was 27.5%, 52.4%, and 89.3%, respectively. Also, 7%, 23%, 8.9%, and none of the elderly had nicotine, khat, inhalants, and cannabis use disorder, respectively. Furthermore, AUD was associated with cognitive impairment (AOR, 95% CI; 2.79 (1.47-5.30)), poor sleep quality (AOR, 95% CI; 3.27 (1.23-8.69)), chronic medical illness (AOR, 95% CI; 2.12 (1.20-3.74)), and suicidal ideation (AOR, 95% CI; 5.27 (2.21-12.60)).

Conclusion:

Problematic alcohol use was higher among the elderly, and cognitive impairment, poor sleep quality, having chronic medical illness, and suicidal ideation were risk factors for AUD. Therefore, community level screening for AUD and comorbid risk factors among this particular age group and managing them is crucial to prevent further complications due to AUD.
Indigenous Cartographies: Pervasive Games and Place-Based Storytelling
Authors: Guntarik Olivia , Davies Hugh , Innocent Troy
Published: March 2023

With the rise of pervasive games in the last two decades, peaking with Pokémon GO, questions surrounding the perceptions, use, and ownership of public space have rapidly emerged. Beyond commercial and public uses of city spaces, how are such experiences attentive to local, regional, cross-cultural, ancient, and persistent notions of place? How can locative and pervasive experiences respond to local and Indigenous understandings of place? Perhaps most decisively, what is the compatibility of ancient and Indigenous stories of sustainability set within rapidly obsolete frameworks of the latest mobile devices? In considering these questions, this article reviews the current literature on Indigenous pervasive games and discusses an augmented reality audio-game that features Australian First Nations’ stories of land, river, and sky. Players of the game are transformed into wayfarers as they move across the landscape to uncover alternate and pre-settlement cartographies bringing new insights to familiar territory.
Mapping issue salience divergence in Europe from 1945 to the present
Authors: Gunderson Jacob R
Published: March 2023

Issue salience is a fundamental component of party competition, yet we know little about when, where, or why parties’ issue emphases converge or diverge. I propose an original operationalization of issue salience divergence, the extent to which parties’ issue emphases differ from each other in an election, that generates values at the party-election and country-election levels. I leverage data from party manifestos to calculate scores for 2,308 party-election combinations of 381 unique parties in 426 elections across thirty European countries, the most comprehensive dataset to date. I find that issue salience divergence is generally low and has starkly decreased over time, but countries and parties differ substantially. As an initial step in understanding these differences, I propose and test initial expectations of how party and democracy age, electoral systems, and party type alter the incentives for divergent issue salience.
Durability evaluation of binary and ternary concrete mixtures by corrosion resistance approach
Authors: Ghanbari Mohammad Ali , Amirabdollahian Ali , Asayesh Shahram , Nasri Mohsen , Mehri Benyamin , Shirzadi Javid Ali Akbar
Published: March 2023

The use of pozzolans as cement substitutes has become widespread in concrete technology in recent years. This is due to the improvement of concrete properties as well as from the perspective of sustainable development and reduction of cement consumption. In this study, the effect of 45% ground granulated blast furnace slag, 7% silica fume, 35% fly ash, and 15% zeolite as binary and ternary mixtures on durability and corrosion resistance of Self-compacting concrete specimens were investigated. The studied parameters included compressive strength, electrical resistivity, water absorption, rapid chloride ion penetration Test and corrosion test also scanning electron microscopy images were used to analyze the microstructure of the concrete samples. Results showed that replacement cement with slag, silica fume, fly ash, and zeolite is generally increased the durability parameters and corrosion resistance of concrete. In all experiments, silica fume has shown better behavior in terms of durability, so that its electrical resistance after 90 days is more than 3.3 times that of the control specimen and other parameters such as water absorption and chloride ion penetration showed approximately 37% And 74% less than conventional concrete respectively. Also, corrosion results indicated that samples containing silica fume had the highest corrosion resistance and reduced the corrosion rate by more than 6 times after 15 test cycles.
An imperious, closed sandbox? A rejoinder to Van Dijk’s critique of the framing perspective on social movement mobilization
Authors: Snow David A , Vliegenthart Rens
Published: March 2023

In this article, we provide a response to Teun van Dijk’s criticism of the framing perspective on social movements, as expressed in his article ‘Analyzing Frame Analysis. A Critical Review of Framing Studies in Social Movement Research’. We argue that a more constructive tone is warranted and explain how his criticism is largely based on a selective reading and misinterpretation of the vast literature on framing and social movements. We provide a more detailed explanation of how discourse and related concepts such as schema and ideology are discussed by social movement scholars and critically reflect on his claim that framing as a concept can rather be replaced by discourse and/or various other cognitive/psychological constructs. Finally, we suggest how a discourse perspective and insights from social movement framing can be complementary in increasing our understanding of how movements (and other actors) communicate and with what consequences.
Creating books and sustaining Indigenous languages with two Atayal communities
Authors: Hsin Ching-Ting , Compton-Lilly Catherine , Hsieh Ming-Fang , Luu Di Tam
Published: March 2023

This article explores a collaboration designed to support two Indigenous Taiwanese communities to combat language loss and promote Indigenous language literacy. Rather than relying on expert knowledge of literacy and language scholars, we have intentionally sought local knowledge to design and create books that introduce young children to simple phrases and basic conversational vocabulary in Atayal language. To do this, we engaged in a series of conversations with Tribal Leaders from two Indigenous Atayal communities. The full ethnographic study addresses designing, planning and creating bi/trilingual books with Atayal communities; instructional uses of bilingual/trilingual books; assessment of children’s language learning; and reflections from Atayal leaders, teachers, and parents. In this article, we examine the lessons we learned in designing and creating the books, as well as Tribal Leader, parent, caregiver, and teacher responses to the books.
Who benefits more from mindfulness? A preliminary study exploring moderating effect of personality traits on competition anxiety in athletes
Authors: Gan Youteng , Wang Ruohang , Wang Xueyu , Li Jiangang , Fan Hongying
Published: March 2023

Objective

Mindfulness can help athletes better regulate their emotions, and analyzing personality traits may help identify those who would benefit more from psychological intervention activities to optimize subsequent training effects. This study sought to examine the effects of mindfulness training on athletes’ competition anxiety and to consider the role of personality traits.

Methods

Fifty athletes (mean age = 21.87 years, SD = 1.62; 23 females and 27 males) were randomly assigned to a mindfulness group (n = 23), which received 8 weeks of mindfulness training, and a control group (n = 27) receiving no intervention. The athletes’ personality traits, mindfulness level, and competition anxiety were measured according to the study plan before and after mindfulness training, and at an 8-week follow up.

Results

Compared with the control group, mindfulness training had a positive effect on the level of mindfulness and self-confidence in the mindfulness group, as well as a greater improvement in cognitive/somatic state anxiety. Improvements remained stable from the end of training to follow up. Additionally, athletes with high activity and high extraversion had more improvement in mindfulness levels and cognitive/somatic state anxiety, respectively, while athletes with low neuroticism demonstrated greater improvement in self-confidence.

Conclusions

Mindfulness training helps to reduce athletes’ competition anxieties, and personality traits might affect the improvement effect to a certain extent, which provided a reference for optimizing mindfulness training and developing more personalized psychological training for athletes who display certain personality traits.
Cultures of Cultural Globalization: How National Repertoires and Political Ideologies Affect Literary and Artistic Circulation
Authors: Levitt Peggy , Siliunas Andreja
Published: March 2023

While prior research foregrounds the economic and political conditions that shape cultural globalization, we focus on the effects of culture. We argue that diffusion itself is a cultural practice, and that two types of cultural schemas – ways of conceptualizing national belonging, on the one hand, and geopolitical ideologies, on the other – shape the people, policies, and infrastructures actors deploy to insert their cultural products into the global art and literary worlds. Based on fieldwork in Argentina, South Korea, and Lebanon, we show how two forms of trans-border nationalism – those that incorporate the diaspora based on ethnic or ancestral similarity, and those that incorporate regional neighbors based on common civic norms – are mobilized to circulate art and literature internationally. Who participates in these diasporic and regional networks, however, depends on diffusers’ ideological commitments. We identify two types of aspirational visions for a global (art) world order, which influence which people and institutions cultural makers and managers draw on to diffuse art and literature: a reformative vision, in which the core institutions in traditional centers of power maintain their centrality but become more inclusive of creators from historically underrepresented countries, and a transformative vision, in which the global art and literary world are restructured and power redistributed via new nodes and circuits that circumvent these traditional centers.
Future therapeutic strategies in the treatment of extrapulmonary neuroendocrine carcinoma: a review
Authors: Robinson Matthew D. , Livesey Daniel , Hubner Richard A. , Valle Juan W. , McNamara Mairéad G.
Published: March 2023

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are rare malignancies arising most commonly in the gastrointestinal and bronchopulmonary systems. Neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are a subgroup of NENs characterised by aggressive tumour biology, poor differentiation and dismal prognosis. Most NEC primary lesions arise in the pulmonary system. However, a small proportion arise outside of the lung and are termed extrapulmonary (EP)-, poorly differentiated (PD)-NECs. Patients with local or locoregional disease may benefit from surgical excision; however, this is often not an option, due to late presentation. To date, treatment has mirrored that of small-cell lung cancer, with platinum–etoposide forming the basis of first-line treatment. There is a lack of consensus in relation to the most effective second-line treatment option. Low incidence, an absence of representative preclinical models and a lack of understanding of the tumour microenvironment all present challenges to drug development in this disease group. However, progress made in elucidating the mutational landscape of EP-PD-NEC and the observations made in several clinical trials are paving the way towards improving outcomes for these patients. The optimisation and strategic delivery of chemotherapeutic interventions according to tumour characteristics and the utilisation of targeted and immune therapies in clinical studies have yielded mixed results. Targeted therapies that complement specific genetic aberrations are under investigation, including AURKA inhibitors in those with MYCN amplifications, BRAF inhibitors in those with BRAFV600E mutations and EGFR suppression, and Ataxia Telangiectasia and Rad3-related inhibitors in patients with ATM mutations. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have conferred promising results in several clinical trials, particularly with dual ICIs and in combination with targeted therapy or chemotherapy. However, further prospective investigations are required to elucidate the impact of programmed cell death ligand 1 expression, tumour mutational burden and microsatellite instability on response. This review aims to explore the most recent developments in the treatment of EP-PD-NEC and contribute towards the requirement for clinical guidance founded on prospective evidence.
Disability data and its situational and contextual irrationalities in the Global South
Authors: Rohman Abdul , Pitaloka Dyah , Erlina Erlina , Dang Duy , Prastyani Ade
Published: March 2023

The inconsistent implementation of disability rights in crisis responses such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic has illuminated the double difficulty that persons with disabilities (PwD) must face. Ableism remains the basis for pandemic responses, leading to a range of irrationalities in collecting and using disability data during critical times. This commentary identifies situational and contextual rationalities in disability data collection and use in Global South. Through vignettes from Indonesia and Vietnam, this commentary illuminates the socio-technical and cultural infrastructure that perpetuates the obscurity of disability rights in the pandemic responses in, respectively, the largest democratic and socialist-communist countries in Southeast Asia. In addition to better listening to the voice of PwD, stronger engagement of organizations of PwD in policy making and programming is advocated for enabling more equitable pandemic preparedness, response, and recovery plans to manifest in future.
Defining Computational Thinking as an Evident Tool in Problem-Solving: Comparative Research on Chinese and Canadian Mathematics Textbooks
Authors: Zhang (张艺美) Yimei , Savard Annie
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To analyze mathematics problem-solving (PS) procedures in Chinese (CH) and Canadian (CA) elementary mathematics textbooks that leverage computational thinking (CT) as a cognitive tool, which have evidently existed and been implemented.

Design/Approach/Methods

In this study, an analysis framework was developed to investigate the characteristics of CT tools for three PS steps—understand the problem, devise and conduct plans, and look back into textbooks—in four contexts: data practices, modeling and simulation practices, computational tools practices, and systemic thinking practices.

Findings

Our results demonstrate the tools (CT) employed in the PS process in CH and CA mathematics textbooks. The strong connections between the “look back” stage and CT tools were explored. During the “look back” stage, both countries required students to transfer their knowledge and perform generalization. In addition, CT is regarded as a basic skill analysis for students in mathematics education and has received significant attention at every stage of the PS process.

Originality/Value

This study brings a new perspective to CT research in education by regarding CT as a cognitive tool for students in mathematics PS.
The Improvement Policy Design of Public Procurement Process for the Public Management Innovation in South Korea
Authors: Yoon Donghun
Published: March 2023

We introduce and study in this paper the policy design improvement regarding the public procurement process for public management innovation. Public procurement is obtained transparently and efficiently at the exact cost of goods, constructions, services, among others. In addition, it has decreased the national budget and supported the national economic development. Most of the major contributions of public procurement included support for small businesses, jobs, and balanced regional development. Nevertheless, a lot of issues have become apparent during the public procurement process, thus requiring preventive measures. The aim of this study is to demonstrate an enhanced public procurement process and develop efficient policies in the future. For this reason, we investigated the issues regarding South Korea’s public procurement process, and concentrated on policy improvement. It is our intention to provide a highly efficient global public procurement process that can be used as an academic paper that will help in developing South Korea’s public procurement process and policy direction.
HIV Patients’ Satisfaction with Pharmaceutical Care at a Nigerian Tertiary Healthcare Facility During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ahmad Dalhatu Muhammad , Abonyi Emmanuel Ebuka , Chukwudi Ugwuonah Joseph , Okon Peter Esin , Aliyu Shuaibu , Uzairue, BMLS, MSc Leonard Ighodalo , Lucero-Prisno Don Eliseo
Published: March 2023

Background: Patients’ satisfaction is an important indicator of determining the quality of pharmaceutical care (PC). This study investigated Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) patients’ satisfaction with PC at Federal Medical Centre, Keffi-Nigeria and determined the statistical correlation between the respondents’ socio-demographic variables and their satisfaction with PC. Methods: This cross-sectional survey study involved 351 randomly selected HIV-positive patients receiving PC in the facility. A Likert-type questionnaire was used for the data collection. Results: The Cronbach's alpha of the questionnaire was .916. The “overall perception of pharmacists’ care or service” had a mean satisfaction score of 4.24 ± 0.749 and “the amount of time spent with the pharmacists” had a mean score of 3.94 ± 0.791. No significant association was found between socio-demographic variables and overall patients’ satisfaction with PC. Conclusion: The reliability of the questionnaire was high and the HIV patients had a good satisfaction with the PC they received in the facility.
Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease in a 4-Year-Old Female Child: “A Rare Case Report”
Authors: Gagan Devesh , Kumar Sudesh , Bhattacharya Piyali , Kaur Simranjit
Published: March 2023

Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease, a rare X-linked recessive disease occurring predominantly in males, is a disorder of proteolipid protein expression in myelin formation in the central nervous system. The disease is clinically manifested by neurodevelopmental delay, ataxia, hypotonia, and pendular eye movement. It is best confirmed by genetic study. A 4-year female child presented with ataxia, neuroregression, decreased scholastic performance, slurred speech, loss of bladder and bowel control, and hypotonia. MRI brain showed generalized hypomyelination and atrophy of the cerebrum and cerebellum. This case highlights that Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease can be considered even in a female child who presented with neurodevelopmental delay and neuro regression, ataxia, and decreased scholastic performance and further confirmed by MRI showing diffuse demyelination along with cerebral and cerebellar atrophy.
Tanzanian Nursing Students’ Experiences of Student Exchange in Sweden—A Qualitative Case Study
Authors: Aldén-Joyce Tara , Mattson Janet , Scheers-Andersson Elina , Kidayi Paulo , Rogathi Jane , Cadstedt Jenny , Björling Gunilla
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Needs within healthcare are changing and nurses require new skills and knowledge in global nursing. Student exchange programs in global contexts provide an opportunity to develop the necessary skills.

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe Tanzanian nursing students’ experiences of student exchange in Sweden.

Methods

A qualitative design was used for this empirical study. Semistructured interviews were conducted with six Tanzanian nursing students who had participated in student exchange in Sweden. The participants were recruited by purposeful sampling. Inductive reasoning and qualitative content analysis were applied.

Results

Four main themes were formed; new roles, experience a new culture, establish new competencies, and global work ambitions. The findings revealed that the students experienced new approaches in Sweden, giving them new competencies and understanding. Furthermore, they increased their global perspectives on nursing and interest in working with global health issues, but they also experienced challenges in the new environment.

Conclusion

The present study showed that Tanzanian nursing students benefitted from their student exchange, both personally, as well as for their future careers as nurses. More research is needed in examining nursing students from low-income countries participating in student exchange in high-income countries.
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate With Two-Staged-Revision ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Vadhera Amar S. , Wolfson Theodore S. , Lee Jonathan S. , Singh Harsh , Gursoy Safa , Verma Nikhil N. , Chahla Jorge
Published: March 2023

Background:

The incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, reconstructions, and re-ruptures has rapidly increased. Patients with failed ACL reconstructions have been reported to suffer from far worse outcomes as compared with those with primary reconstructions, prompting the advancement of surgical and biologic techniques. Effective treatment of re-tears has been shown to be achieved either utilizing a 1-stage or 2-staged approach, with the latter preferred if the patient presents with significant bone loss, previously malpositioned tunnels, or unacceptable tunnel expansion. Recent literature has shown the efficacy of bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) in improving clinical outcomes and graft integration as well as accelerated ligamentization.

Indication:

Patients are indicated for surgery when presenting with chronic ACL graft failure and objective insufficiency as well as concerns regarding tunnel overlap, enlargement, or interference. Contraindications for revision involve influences of concurrent injuries that may be secondary causes of the ACL injury.

Technique Description:

After bone marrow aspiration is performed, the tibial and femoral tunnel apertures are debrided of fibrous tissue with a combination of a shaver and curettes. A threaded guide wire is passed and the interference screws are removed, revealing the residual ruptured graft. A shaver and radiofrequency ablation device are utilized to clean off remaining graft remnants. Sequential debridement and reaming are performed to remove any residual fibrous tissue or sclerotic bone from the tunnel. The demineralized bone matrix is then combined with the prepared BMAC in a syringe with a cannula extension and subsequently injected into the tunnels. A freer elevate is used to tamp and smooth the graft to match the surrounding contour. A 12-mm cannulated allograft bone dowel is then passed up into the tibial tunnel and gently tamped into place.

Results:

Within 2 years postoperatively, patients are expected to have improved overall knee-specific quality of life, reduced pain, and a successful return to activities. No differences in outcomes have been noted in the literature between 1-staged and 2-staged ACL reconstructions.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Recent advancements in our understanding of the effects of BMAC in the setting of an ACL reconstruction should prompt surgeons to consider such treatments in indicated patients.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Health benefits of compact cities for Chinese older adults: Nation-level study of Chinese cities
Authors: Sun Feixiang , Zhou Yu
Published: March 2023

Studies in North American and European cities since the 2000s have found that living in compact cities led to health gains for urban residents, although the benefits can be small and nuanced. Studies in China have shown mixed results, and higher urban density can be associated with adverse health outcomes due to heavier air pollution and overcrowding in Chinese cities. This paper examines the relationship between urban compactness and the self-rated health of older adults in 278 Chinese prefectural and up-level cities based on China’s 2010 census. We use a composite urban compact index incorporating population density, land use, and transportation patterns—salient characteristics according to the compact city and health literature. Our results show that living in compact cities in China is associated with significant statistical gain in self-evaluations of health for older adults, controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, and environmental variables, but the extents of the benefit vary among cities in Eastern, Central, and Western Regions of China, confirming the nonlinear relationship suggested by other studies on individual Chinese cities. The research calls for greater attention to the role of compact cities in supporting the healthy aging processes for older adults in urban China and the potential damage to their physical and mental well-being due to rapidly declining urban compactness in recent decades. The model also identifies other distinctive contributing factors for the self-rated health of older adults in three geographical zones and policy implications.
Phase II clinical trial evaluating Abatacept in patients with steroid-refractory chronic graft versus host disease
Authors: Koshy Anita G. , Kim Haesook T. , Liegel Jessica , Arnason Jon E. , Ho Vincent T. , Antin Joseph H. , Joyce Robin , Cutler Corey S. , Gooptu Mahasweta , Nikiforow Sarah , Logan Emma K. , Elavalakanar Pavania , Narcis Michele , Stroopinsky Dina , Avigan Zachary M. , Boussi Leora , Stephenson Susan L , El Banna Hassan , Bindal Poorva , Cheloni Giulia , Avigan David E. , Soiffer Robert J. , Rosenblatt Jacalyn
Published: March 2023

Steroid-refractory chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality following allogeneic transplantation. Abatacept is a selective co-stimulation modulator, used for the treatment of rheumatologic disease, and was recently the first drug to be approved by the FDA for the prophylaxis of acute graft versus host disease. We conducted a Phase II study to evaluate the efficacy of Abatacept in steroid-refractory cGVHD (clinicaltrials.gov #NCT01954979). The overall response rate was 58%, with all responders achieving a partial response. Abatacept was well-tolerated with few serious infectious complications. Immune correlative studies showed a decrease in IL-1-alpha, IL-21, and TNF-alpha as well as decreased PD-1 expression by CD4+ T cells in all patients after treatment with Abatacept, demonstrating the effect of this drug on the immune microenvironment. The results demonstrate that Abatacept is a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cGVHD.
Intra-ring radial cracks in Sakhalin spruce (Picea glehnii) from artificial forest
Authors: Murakami Satoru , Ohsaki Hisashi , Sato Mayumi , Sano Yuzou
Published: March 2023

The occurrence of radial cracks in Sakhalin spruce (Picea glehnii), differences in the degree of cracking among five habitats, and the relationship between cracks and wood density were investigated in a total of 79 logs collected from five sites in Hokkaido, Japan. The cracks were divided into two types: intra-ring radial cracks that were restricted to cracks within an annual ring and larger radial cracks that extended beyond a single annual ring. The number and the longitudinal length of cracks in log varied depending on habitat, and it was considered that the cold temperature conditions in winter might affect the incidence and length of cracks. The results of soft X-ray densitometry showed that the annual ring density with cracks was lower than the annual ring density without cracks. It is considered that this low wood density affected the occurrence of cracks.
Transcriptome analysis of the endangered dung beetle Copris tripartitus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) and characterization of genes associated to immunity, growth, and reproduction
Authors: Hwang Hee Ju , Patnaik Bharat Bhusan , Baliarsingh Snigdha , Patnaik Hongray Howrelia , Sang Min Kyu , Park Jie eun , Cho Hang Chul , Song Dae Kwon , Jeong Jun Yang , Hong Chan Eui , Kim Yong Tae , Sin Hyeon Jun , Ziwei Liu , Park So Young , Kang Se Won , Jeong Heon Cheon , Park Hong Seog , Han Yeon Soo , Lee Yong Seok
Published: March 2023

Background

Dung beetles recycle organic matter through the decomposition of feces and support ecological balance. However, these insects are threatened by the indiscriminate use of agrochemicals and habitat destruction. Copris tripartitus Waterhouse (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), a dung beetle, is listed as a class-II Korean endangered species. Although the genetic diversity of C. tripartitus populations has been investigated through analysis of mitochondrial genes, genomic resources for this species remain limited. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptome of C. tripartitus to elucidate functions related to growth, immunity and reproduction for the purpose of informed conservation planning.

Results

The transcriptome of C. tripartitus was generated using next-generation Illumina sequencing and assembled de novo using a Trinity-based platform. In total, 98.59% of the raw sequence reads were processed as clean reads. These reads were assembled into 151,177 contigs, 101,352 transcripts, and 25,106 unigenes. A total of 23,450 unigenes (93.40%) were annotated to at least one database. The largest proportion of unigenes (92.76%) were annotated to the locally curated PANM-DB. A maximum of 5,512 unigenes had homologous sequences in Tribolium castaneum. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis revealed a maximum of 5,174 unigenes in the Molecular function category. Further, in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis, a total of 462 enzymes were associated with established biological pathways. Based on sequence homology to known proteins in PANM-DB, representative immunity, growth, and reproduction-related genes were screened. Potential immunity-related genes were categorized into pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, the MyD88- dependent pathway, endogenous ligands, immune effectors, antimicrobial peptides, apoptosis, and adaptation-related transcripts. Among PRRs, we conducted detailed in silico characterization of TLR-2, CTL, and PGRP_SC2-like. Repetitive elements such as long terminal repeats, short interspersed nuclear elements, long interspersed nuclear elements and DNA elements were enriched in the unigene sequences. A total of 1,493 SSRs were identified among all unigenes of C. tripartitus.

Conclusions

This study provides a comprehensive resource for analysis of the genomic topography of the beetle C. tripartitus. The data presented here clarify the fitness phenotypes of this species in the wild and provide insight to support informed conservation planning.
Estimating the combining ability and genetic parameters for growth habit, yield, and fiber quality traits in some Egyptian cotton crosses
Authors: Abdel-Aty M.S. , Sorour F. A. , Yehia W. M. B. , Kotb H. M. K. , Abdelghany Ahmed M. , Lamlom Sobhi F. , Shah Adnan Noor , Abdelsalam Nader R.
Published: March 2023

It is crucial to understand how targeted traits in a hybrid breeding program are influenced by gene activity and combining ability. During the three growing seasons of 2015, 2016, and 2017, a field study was conducted with twelve cotton genotypes, comprised of four testers and eight lines. Thirty-two F1 crosses were produced in the 2015 breeding season using the line x tester mating design. The twelve genotypes and their thirty-two F1 crosses were then evaluated in 2016 and 2017. The results demonstrated highly significant differences among cotton genotypes for all the studied traits, showing a wide range of genetic diversity in the parent genotypes. Additionally, the line-x-tester interaction was highly significant for all traits, suggesting the impact of both additive and non-additive variations in gene expression. Furthermore, the thirty-two cotton crosses showed high seed cotton output, lint cotton yield, and fiber quality, such as fiber length values exceeding 31 mm and a fiber strength above 10 g/tex. Accordingly, selecting lines and testers with high GCA effects and crosses with high SCA effects would be an effective approach to improve the desired traits in cotton and develop new varieties with excellent yield and fiber quality.
The factors associated with cognitive function among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan
Authors: Lor You-Chen Mary , Tsou Meng-Ting , Tsai Li-Wei , Tsai Szu-Ying
Published: March 2023

Background

This research aimed to investigate the associations of anthropometric measurements, physiological parameters, chronic disease comorbidities, and social and lifestyle factors with cognitive function amongst community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan.

Methods

This was an observational, cross-sectional study involving 4,578 participants at least 65 years old, recruited between January 2008 and December 2018 from the Annual Geriatric Health Examinations Program. Cognitive function was assessed using the short portable mental state questionnaire (SPMSQ). Multivariable logistic regression was done to analyze the factors associated with cognitive impairment.

Results

Among the 4,578 participants, 103 people (2.3%) with cognitive impairment were identified. Associated factors were age (odds ratio (OR) = 1.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.13,1.20), male gender (OR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.21,0.72), diabetes mellitus (DM) (OR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.03, 2.82), hyperlipidemia (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.25, 0.89), exercise (OR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.34, 0.56), albumin (OR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.15, 0.88), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.97, 1.00). Whereas waistline, alcohol intake in recent six months, and hemoglobin was not significantly associated with cognitive impairment (all p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Our findings suggested that people with older age and a history of DM had a higher risk of cognitive impairment. Male gender, a history of hyperlipidemia, exercise, a high albumin level, and a high HDL level seemed to be associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment amongst older adults.
Association between hyperCKemia and axonal degeneration in Guillain–Barré syndrome
Authors: Lee Eun Kyoung , Kim Sooyoung , Jo Nathan , Sohn Eunhee
Published: March 2023

Background

Elevated serum creatine kinase (CK) levels have been reported in patients with Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS), more frequently in patients with acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN) than in those with acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP). However, some patients with AMAN show reversible conduction failure (RCF), characterized by rapid recovery without axonal degeneration. The present study tested the hypothesis that hyperCKemia is associated with axonal degeneration in GBS, regardless of the subtype.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 54 patients with AIDP or AMAN whose serum CK levels were measured within 4 weeks from symptom onset between January 2011 and January 2021. We divided them into hyperCKemia (serum CK ≥ 200 IU/L) and normal CK (serum CK < 200 IU/L) groups. Patients were further classified into axonal degeneration and RCF groups based on more than two nerve conduction studies. The clinical features and frequency of axonal degeneration and RCF were compared between groups.

Results

Clinical characteristics were similar in the hyperCKemia and normal CK groups. Compared with that in the RCF subgroup, the frequency of hyperCKemia was significantly higher in the axonal degeneration group (p = 0.007). Patients with normal serum CK levels showed better clinical prognosis, evaluated by the Hughes score at 6 months from admission (p = 0.037).

Conclusion

HyperCKemia is associated with axonal degeneration in GBS, regardless of the electrophysiological subtype. HyperCKemia within 4 weeks from symptom onset might be a marker of axonal degeneration and poor prognosis in GBS. Serial nerve conduction studies and serum CK measurements will help clinicians understand the pathophysiology of GBS.
Value of electrophysiological indicators in differential diagnosis of parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy
Authors: Hu Wangwang , Cheng Yifan , Pan Jie , Wang Xun , Li Shaojing , Fan Zijian , Shao Bei , Niu Xiaoting
Published: March 2023

Background

We evaluated the value of electrophysiological indicators by external anal sphincter electromyography (EAS-EMG), sympathetic skin response (SSR), R-R interval variation (RRIV), and Bulbocavernosus Reflex (BCR) in differential diagnosis of multiple system atrophy (MSA) and Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods

A total of 41 patients with MSA and 32 patients with PD were enrolled. The electrophysiological changes of autonomic dysfunction were assessed with BCR, EAS-EMG, SSR, and RRIV, and the abnormal rate of each indicator was calculated. The diagnostic value of each indicator was analyzed with ROC curve.

Results

The incidence rate of autonomic dysfunction in MSA group was significantly higher than that in PD group (p < 0.05). The abnormal rates of BCR and EAS-EMG indicators in MSA group were higher than those in PD group (p < 0.05). The abnormal rates of SSR and RRIV indicators in MSA group and PD group were high; however, there was no significant difference between MSA and PD groups (p > 0.05). The sensitivity of BCR combined with EAS-EMG indicators in differential diagnosis of MSA and PD were 92.3% in males and 86.7% in females, respectively, and the specificity was 72.7% in males and 90% in females, respectively.

Conclusions

Combined analysis of BCR and EAS-EMG has high sensitivity and specificity for differential diagnosis of MSA and PD.
Treatment of spinal muscular atrophy with Onasemnogene Abeparvovec in Switzerland: a prospective observational case series study
Authors: Stettner Georg M. , Hasselmann Oswald , Tscherter Anne , Galiart Elea , Jacquier David , Klein Andrea
Published: March 2023

Background

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare neuromuscular disorder leading to early death in the majority of affected individuals without treatment. Recently, targeted treatment approaches including Onasemnogene Abeparvovec (OA) were introduced. This study describes the first real-world experience with OA in Switzerland.

Methods

Prospective observational case series study using data collected within the Swiss Registry for Neuromuscular Disorders from SMA patients treated with OA. Development of motor, bulbar and respiratory function, appearance of scoliosis, and safety data (platelet count, liver function, and cardiotoxicity) were analyzed.

Results

Nine individuals were treated with OA and followed for 383 ± 126 days: six SMA type 1 (of which two with nusinersen pretreatment), one SMA type 2, and two pre-symptomatic individuals. In SMA type 1, CHOP Intend score increased by 28.1 from a mean score of 20.5 ± 7.6 at baseline. At end of follow-up, 50% of SMA type 1 patients required nutritional support and 17% night-time ventilation; 67% developed scoliosis. The SMA type 2 patient and two pre-symptomatically treated individuals reached maximum CHOP Intend scores. No patient required adaptation of the concomitant prednisolone treatment, although transient decrease of platelet count and increase of transaminases were observed in all patients. Troponin-T was elevated prior to OA treatment in 100% and showed fluctuations in 57% thereafter.

Conclusions

OA is a potent treatment for SMA leading to significant motor function improvements. However, the need for respiratory and especially nutritional support as well as the development of scoliosis must be thoroughly evaluated in SMA type 1 patients even in the short term after OA treatment.