bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arthroscopic Superior Capsular Reconstruction for Older Patients With Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: A Comparative Study With Younger Patients
Authors: Kholinne Erica , Kwak Jae-Man , Cho Chang-Ho , AlSomali Khalid , Van Nguyen Thanh , Kim Hyojune , Koh Kyoung-Hwan , Jeon In-Ho
Published: July 2021

Background:

Arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) is a method for treating irreparable chronic rotator cuff tears. However, the extent to which ASCR can be performed with regard to the patient’s age has yet to be determined.

Purpose:

To compare the surgical outcomes of ASCR for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears (IRCTs) in patients aged <65 years versus patients aged ≥65 years.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Of 105 patients with IRCTs who underwent ASCR between March 2013 and June 2020, 73 patients were enrolled in this study based on the selection criteria. Polypropylene mesh augmentation to the graft was used in 18 of 36 patients in the younger adults group (age, <65 years) and 20 of 37 patients in the older adults group (age, ≥65 years). The clinical and radiological outcomes were evaluated preoperatively and at the final clinical follow-up. The graft integrity status was evaluated using serial magnetic resonance imaging and set as the primary endpoint. Furthermore, subgroup analysis was performed based on age group and graft type.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 59.2 ± 3.8 years in the younger adults group and 70.5 ± 4.1 years in the older adults group. Both groups showed improvement based on the clinical and radiological outcomes at the final follow-up. The mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores improved from 52.3 ± 15.4 to 77.3 ± 13.5 in the younger adults group ( P < .001) and from 45.7 ± 16.1 to 76.6 ± 11.4 in the older adults group ( P < .001). The mean visual analog scale for pain scores improved from 5.5 ± 1.2 to 2.1 ± 0.9 in the younger adults group ( P < .001) and from 5.5 ± 1.4 to 2.1 ± 1.2 in the older adults group ( P < .001). The graft healing rate was significantly higher in the younger adults group (81%) than in the older adults group (65%) ( P = .049). Subgroup analysis showed that after mesh augmentation, the healing rate in the younger adults group (84%) was similar to that in the older adults group (85%) ( P = .299).

Conclusion:

ASCR resulted in a favorable surgical outcome for both younger and older adult patients with IRCT. The younger patients had lower graft failure rates and superior surgical outcomes. In older patients, ASCR using polypropylene mesh augmentation may reduce graft failure and result in surgical outcomes similar to those in younger patients.
And Who Will Revere the Black Girl
Authors: Hill Dominique C.
Published: July 2021

While the mainstream media continues to narrowly define justice and reduce the site of its presence or absence to murder scenes and court cases, justice is often foreclosed long before someone is murdered and we must #SayHerName. To expand the project of Black mattering beyond race and physical death, this essay animates how body policing through school dress code policy sanctions racial-sexual violence and provide girls with an ultimatum: either abandon body sovereignty and self-expression, or accept the consequences of being read as a distraction, a problem. (Re)membering classic Black feminist theory and the 2013 case of Vanessa Van Dyke, this essay locates these underrecognized facets of state violence as an extension of the #SayHerName project. Through a Black girlhood studies framework, the author underscores embodiment as an essential measure of justice and reframes mattering through the importance of Black girls’ crowns.
ʿAṣfūriyyeh: A History of Madness, Modernity, and War in the Middle East
Authors: Abi-Rached Joelle M
Published: July 2021

My book, published in 2020, reconstructs the history of ʿAṣfūriyyeh, one of the first ‘modern’ mental hospitals in the Middle East. It uses the rise and fall of this institution as a lens through which to examine the development of modern psychiatric theory and practice in the region as well as the socio-political history of modern Lebanon. ʿAṣfūriyyeh becomes a window into social-policy questions relating to dependency and welfare, definitions of deviance, the relation of mission to empire, state-building processes, and the relation of medical authority to religion. The book also examines the impact of war on health and healthcare infrastructures. Reflecting on the afterlife of this and other institutions, the book calls for a new ‘ethics of memory.’
A Risky Object? How Microplastics Are Represented in the German Media
Authors: Schönbauer Sarah , Müller Ruth
Published: July 2021

Microplastics are increasingly populating the environment and human and nonhuman bodies. Their presence has invoked concerns about potential environmental and health effects, resulting in increasing research and media reporting. Here, we explore how the German print media reported on microplastics between 2004 and 2018. We find three distinct phases of reporting in which microplastics are introduced, stabilized, and destabilized as a “risk object.” We show that different attributions of risk go hand in hand with divergent assessments of who is responsible for risk management and argue that media cycles of affirming and contesting risk might undermine public trust in scientific findings.
Clinical and Social Characteristics of Deliberately Intoxicated Minors Treated in Pediatric Intensive Care
Authors: Odeta Kinciniene , Auge Lesinskaite , Rokas Sambaras , Vankeviciene Ramune , Dervinyte-Bongarzoni Asta , Sigita Lesinskiene
Published: July 2021

Background:

The aim of the study was to determine and compare the clinical and social characteristics of minors using alcohol and drugs for inebriation, and the same for those using them for suicide.

Methods:

This study includes an analysis of case histories of adolescents hospitalized in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit because of acute alcohol or/and drug intoxication in 2015 to 2017. Two groups (group I: inebriation, and group II: suicide) were compared on age, sex, severity of intoxication, used substances, presence of other self-harm evidence, and social status.

Results:

A total of 390 cases were registered: 78.21% in Group I and 21.79% in Group II. The Glasgow-Coma-Scale scores showed that patients from Group I were more severely intoxicated, with an average score of 11.47, whereas patients from Group II averaged 13.45 ( P < .001). Self-harm was more prominent among minors from Group II, with an incidence of up to 65.09%. The most common substance used to become inebriated was alcohol (72.79%), and for committing suicide was medication (88.24%). Patients who were living in children’s care homes composed 13.33% of all cases included into the study, despite the low frequency of these minors in Lithuania (0.8%).

Conclusions:

The substance used for deliberate intoxication was mostly alcohol. Minors experiencing inebriation were hospitalized in worse clinical condition in comparison to those who had attempted suicide. Other signs of self-harm were significantly more common among suicidal minors. Living in children’s care homes is a possible risk factor for deliberate intoxication among young people in Lithuania.
Recombinant DNA and Genome-editing Technologies: Embodied Utopias and Heterotopias
Authors: Šlesingerová Eva
Published: July 2021

Recombinant DNA technology is an essential area of life engineering. The main aim of research in this field is to experimentally explore the possibilities of repairing damaged human DNA, healing or enhancing future human bodies. Based on ethnographic research in a Czech biochemical laboratory, the article explores biotechnological corporealities and their specific ontology through dealings with bio-objects, the bodywork of scientists. Using the complementary concepts of utopia and heterotopia, the text addresses the situation of bodies and bio-objects in a laboratory. Embodied utopias are analyzed as material semiotic phenomena that are embodied by scientists in their visions and emotions and that are related to potential bodies and to future, not-yet-actualized embodiments. As a counterpart to this, the text explores embodied heterotopias, which are always the other spaces, like biotechnological bio-objects that are simulated in computers or stored in special solutions.
Language and counterfactual reasoning in Chinese, English and ChineseL1-EnglishL2 reasoners
Authors: Bassetti Bene
Published: July 2021

Aims:

No recent studies have investigated language effects on counterfactual reasoning in bilinguals. This paper investigates the impact of bilinguals’ native language and language of testing on counterfactual reasoning, addressing two questions: (1) Do older Chinese reasoners, educated before English became a school subject, draw different inferences, or use different cues to draw inferences, compared with English peers and younger ChineseL1 reasoners? Does knowing English affect their reasoning? and (2) Do Chinese reasoners draw different inferences, or use different cues, when tested in Chinese and when tested in English?

Design:

Experiment 1: The explanatory variables are first language (between-group: Chinese, English), age cohort (between-group: young, older), inferential chain length (within-group: short, long). Experiment 2: The explanatory variables are language of testing (between-group: Chinese, English) and inferential chain length (within-group: short, long). The outcome is the consequent probability rating. Open questions investigate cues used to draw inferences.

Analysis:

The sample comprised 188 participants. Generalised linear mixed-effects models were used for quantitative data, thematic analysis for qualitative data.

Findings:

Older Chinese speakers rate long-chain consequents as more probable than English peers. Chinese and English reasoners use different cues to make inferences, as do Chinese reasoners tested in Chinese L1 or English L2.

Originality:

This is the first paper to compare Chinese reasoners educated before and after English entered the school curriculum, and to investigate inferential chain length effects on Chinese counterfactual reasoning. It introduces a novel task (consequent evaluation), and adopts a mixed-method approach to investigate both the product and process of reasoning, using quantitative and qualitative data respectively.

Significance:

The study provides new evidence and interpretation for the old debate about language effects on counterfactual reasoning in cognitive psychology; shows that conditional reasoning is a fruitful topic for linguistic relativity and bilingual cognition research; and testifies that qualitative data allows detection of differences in thinking processes.
Brillouin scattering spectrum-based crack measurement using distributed fiber optic sensing
Authors: Ou Ruonan , Luo Linqing , Soga Kenichi
Published: July 2021

Brillouin scattering-based distributed fiber optic sensing (Brillouin-DFOS) technology is widely used in health monitoring of large-scale structures with the aim to provide early warning of structural degradation and timely maintenance and renewal. Material cracking is one of the key mechanisms that contribute to structural failure. However, the conventional strain measurement using the Brillouin-DFOS system has a decimeter-order spatial resolution, and therefore it is difficult to measure the highly localized strain generated by a sub-millimeter crack. In this study, a new crack analysis method based on Brillouin scattering spectrum (BSS) data is proposed to overcome this spatial resolution-induced measurement limitation. By taking the derivative of the BSS data and tracking their local minimums, the method can extract the maximum strain within the spatial resolution around the measurement points. By comparing the variation of the maximum strain within the spatial resolution around different measurement points along the fiber, cracks can be located. The performance of the method is demonstrated and verified by locating and quantifying a small gap created between two wood boards when one of the wood boards is pushed away from the other. The test result verifies the accuracy of the crack strain quantification of the method and proves its capability to measure a sub-millimeter crack. The method is also applied to a thin bonded concrete overlay of asphalt pavement field experiment, in which the growth of a transverse joint penetrating through the concrete–asphalt interface was monitored. The method successfully locates the position, traces the strain variation, and estimates the width of a crack less than [Formula: see text] wide using a Brillouin-DFOS system with [Formula: see text] spatial resolution.
Smoking Cessation Mobile Interventions in Latin America: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cartujano-Barrera Francisco , Rodríguez-Bolaños Rosibel , Arana-Chicas Evelyn , Allaham Fatema , Sandoval Lizbeth , Rubado Michelle , Gallegos-Carrillo Katia , Colugnati Fernando Antonio Basile , Galil Arise G. , Mejia Raul M. , Cupertino Ana Paula
Published: July 2021

Objective:

To systematically review published articles reporting the use of smoking cessation mobile health (mHealth) interventions in Latin America.

Methods:

Five different databases were searched from database inception to 2020. Criteria: (1) the research was a smoking cessation randomized controlled trial (RCT), quasi-experimental research, or single-arm study; (2) the intervention used at least one type of mHealth intervention; (3) the research was conducted in Latin American; and (4) the research reported the cessation rate.

Results:

Of the seven selected studies, four were conducted in Brazil, two in Mexico, and one in Peru. Only one study was an adequately powered RCT. Interventions relied on text messages ( n = 3), web-based tools ( n = 2), and telephone calls ( n = 3). Some studies ( n = 4) provided pharmacotherapy support. Smoking cessation outcomes included self-reported ( n = 5) and biochemically verified ( n = 2) abstinence. Follow-ups were conducted at Month 6 ( n = 2), Week 12 ( n = 4), and Day 30 ( n = 1). Cessation rates varied from 9.4% at Week 12 to 55.5% at Day 30.

Conclusion:

Despite the promising cessation rates of mHealth interventions in Brazil, Mexico, and Peru, there is a need to rigorously evaluate these interventions in different Latin American countries with RCTs that are long-term, adequately powered, and use biochemical verification of cessation.
The Accuracy and Clinical Success of Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Nickel Brian T. , Carroll Kaitlin M. , Pearle Andrew D. , Kleeblad Laura J. , Burger Joost , Mayman David J. , Westrich Geoffrey , Jerabek Seth A.
Published: July 2021

Background: Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) has emerged as a patient-specific customizable tool that enables 3-dimensional preoperative planning, intraoperative adjustment, robotic-assisted bone preparation, and soft-tissue protection. Haptic rTKA may enhance component positioning, but only a few small studies have examined patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes after haptic rTKA. Purpose: In patients who underwent haptic rTKA, we sought to evaluate (1) the discrepancy in alignment between the executed surgical plan and implanted alignment in the coronal and sagittal planes 1 year postoperatively and (2) patient-reported outcomes 2 years postoperatively. Methods: From a prospectively collected database, we reviewed 105 patients who underwent haptic rTKA from August 2016 to May 2017. Two fellowship-trained arthroplasty surgeons independently reviewed hip-to-ankle standing biplanar radiographs to measure overall limb alignment and individual tibial and femoral component alignment relative to the mechanical axis and compared this to the executed surgical plan. Patient-reported outcomes were collected preoperatively and at 2 years postoperatively using the Lower Activity Extremity Score (LEAS), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Junior (KOOS Jr.), and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Results: Mean patient age was 62.4 years, and mean body mass index was 30.6 kg/m2. Interobserver reliability was significant with a κ of 0.89. Absolute mean deviations in postoperative coronal alignment compared to intraoperative alignment were 0.625° ± 0.70° and 0.45° ± 0.50° for the tibia and femur, respectively. Absolute mean deviations in postoperative tibial sagittal alignment were 0.47° ± 0.76°. Overall mechanical alignment was 0.97° ± 1.79°. Outcomes in LEAS, KOOS Jr., and NPRS changed from 8 to 10, 78 to 88.3, and 8 to 1, respectively. Conclusions: Haptic rTKA demonstrated high reliability and accuracy (less than 1°) of tibial coronal, femoral coronal, and tibial sagittal component alignment postoperatively compared to the surgical plan. Patient-reported outcomes improved, as well. A more rigorous study on long-term outcomes is warranted.
Fansidar drug induces cytotoxicity in some vital tissues in a rat model: combination defensive effect of selenium and zinc capsules
Authors: Akintunde J. K , Ajiboye J. A , Siemuri E. O , Olabisi O. O.
Published: July 2021

Aim:

Fansidar (FAN) is widely used as an antimalarial drug, but it may cause hepatoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and neurotoxicity. Hence, the study examines the cytoprotection of selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) tablets against FAN induced toxicity.

Method:

Group I was given distilled water. Groups II, III, IV, and V received 50 mg/kg FAN by gavage. Group III was co-treated with a 50 mg/kg Se tablet. Group IV was co-treated with a 50 mg/kg Zn tablet. Group V was co-treated with a 50 mg/kg Se tablet + 50 mg/kg Zn tablet. The exposure lasted for 7 days (sub-acute exposure).

Result:

FAN causes cytotoxicity through significant ( p < 0.05) alteration of antioxidant molecules and hepatic enzymes. It also significantly ( p < 0.05) induces renal, hepatocyte, and purkinje cell damage, but no visible lesion on testicular cells. The FAN induced cytotoxicity was significantly ( p < 0.05) reversed on treatment with both single and combined antioxidant tablets.

Conclusion:

Our study supports the view that antioxidant micronutrient (Se and Zn) tablets may be a useful modulator in alleviating FAN induced oxidative stress and cytotoxicity in male rats.

Plain language summary

Combined selenium and zinc capsules: better therapy against cytotoxicity Fansidar was approved by United States’ Food and Drug Administration as an anti-malarial drug to treat acute and complicated malaria fever among patients in West Africa; however, its usage elicits toxicity to several organs of the body. It was elucidated that the combination of selenium and zinc capsules promotes organ wellness on co-treatment with Fansidar.
COVID-19: a review of current knowledge regarding exposure, quarantine, isolation and other preventive measures
Authors: Rosolanka Robert , Henao-Martinez Andres F. , Pisney Larissa , Franco-Paredes Carlos , Krsak Martin
Published: July 2021

Deeper understanding of the spread, morbidity, fatality, and development of immune response associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, is necessary in order to establish an appropriate epidemiological and clinical response. Exposure control represents a key part of the combat against COVID-19, as the effectiveness of current therapeutic options remains partial. Since the preventive measures have not been sufficiently able to slow down this pandemic, in this article we explore some of the pertinent knowledge gaps, while overall looking to effective vaccination strategies as a way out. Early on, such strategies may need to rely on counting the convalescents as protected in order to speed up the immunization of the whole population.
A People’s Green New Deal: Obstacles and Prospects
Authors: Ajl Max
Published: July 2021

Within the past years, the Green New Deal (GND) became the common language for Northern climate politics, offering a seeming exit path from Northern social and ecological crises while erasing an older Northern climate discourse tied to Southern demands for climate reparations and rights to development. This Eurocentric GND has become the environmental program for an equally Eurocentric social democratic renewal. This article situates the GND in world-systemic shifts, and Northern reactions to such shifts. It situates the GND as one of three possible Eurocentric solutions to the climate crisis: a great elite transformation from above; a left-liberal “reformist” resolution; a social democratic resolution. It then elaborates a possible “People’s Green New Deal,” a revolutionary transformation focused on state sovereignty, climate debt, auto-centered development, and agriculture. Within each proposed resolution, it traces the role of the land, agriculture, and peasants.
Arthroscopic Repair of Humeral Avulsion of Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions: Outcomes at 2-Year Follow-up
Authors: Grundshtein Alon , Kazum Efi , Chechik Ofir , Dolkart Oleg , Rath Ehud , Bivas Assaf , Maman Eran
Published: July 2021

Background:

Humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) is an uncommon condition but a major contributor to shoulder instability and functional decline.

Purpose:

To describe the pre- and postoperative HAGL lesion presentations of instability, pain, and functionality and the return-to-sports activities in patients managed arthroscopically for anterior and posterior HAGL lesions.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Data on patients with HAGL lesions treated with arthroscopic repair between 2009 and 2018 were retrospectively retrieved from medical charts, and the patients were interviewed to assess their level of postoperative functionality. The Rowe; Constant; University of California, Los Angeles; Oxford; and pain visual analog scale (VAS) scores were obtained for both pre- and postoperative status. Return-to-sports activities and level of activities after surgery were compared with the preinjury state, and complications, reoperations, and recurrent instability were recorded and evaluated.

Results:

There were 23 study patients (12 females and 11 males; mean age, 24 years). The mean follow-up duration was 24.4 months (range, 7-99 months; median, 17 months). In 7 (30.4%) of the patients, HAGL lesions were diagnosed only intraoperatively. A significant improvement was seen in all examined postoperative functional scores and VAS. At the last follow-up visit, 2 patients (8.7%) reported residual instability with no improvement in pain levels and declined any further treatment, and 3 others (13.0%) required revision surgeries for additional shoulder pathologies (reoperations were performed 18-36 months after the index procedure). The remaining 18 patients (78.3%) were free of pain and symptoms. There was a mean of 0.65 coexisting pathologies per patient, mostly superior labral anterior-posterior, Bankart, and rotator cuff lesions.

Conclusion:

HAGL lesions are often missed during routine workup in patients with symptoms of instability, and a high level of suspicion is essential during history acquisition, clinical examination, magnetic resonance imaging arthrogram interpretation, and arthroscopic evaluation. Arthroscopic repair yields good pain and stability results; however, some high-level athletes may not return to their preinjury level of activity.
Comparing the Predictors of Functional Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Modified Frailty Index, Clinical Frailty Scale, and Charlson Comorbidity Index
Authors: Moorthy Vikaesh , Lee Merrill , Ang Benjamin Fu Hong , Chen Jerry Yongqiang , Lie Denny Tjiauw Tjoen
Published: July 2021

Background:

The incidence of rotator cuff tears increases with age, and operative management is usually required in patients with persistent symptoms. Although several studies have analyzed the effect of age and comorbidities on outcomes after rotator cuff repair, no study has specifically examined the consequence of frailty.

Purpose:

To determine the best frailty/comorbidity index for predicting functional outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The authors conducted a retrospective cohort study of 340 consecutive patients who underwent unilateral arthroscopic rotator cuff repair at a tertiary hospital between April 2016 and April 2018. All patients had undergone arthroscopic double-row rotator cuff repair with subacromial decompression by a single fellowship-trained shoulder surgeon. Patient frailty was measured using the Modified Frailty Index (MFI), Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), calculated through retrospective chart review based on case notes made just before surgery; patient age and sex were also noted preoperatively. Functional outcomes using the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), Constant Shoulder Score (CSS), University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score, and visual analog scale for pain were measured preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively.

Results:

The MFI was a consistent significant predictor in all functional outcome scores up to 24 months postoperatively ( P < .05), unlike the CFS and CCI. Sex was also a significant predictor of postoperative OSS, CSS, and UCLA Shoulder Score, with male sex being associated with better functional outcomes. Patients with higher MFI scores had slower functional improvement postoperatively, but they eventually attained functional outcome scores comparable with those of their counterparts with lower MFI scores at 24 months postoperatively.

Conclusion:

The MFI was found to be a better tool for predicting postoperative function than was the CFS or CCI in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. The study findings suggest that a multidimensional assessment of frailty (including both functional status and comorbidities) is important in determining functional outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.
A commentary on drug safety and genomics: Promising new agents may require expansion of guidelines for subject screening in clinical trials
Authors: Pressman Peter , Clemens Roger , Blackburn Thomas , Hayes A Wallace
Published: July 2021

The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors likely represent a novel therapeutic yet complex target with the potential to impact various disease processes that present significant unmet medical needs. Despite a history of significant adverse events and still ill-defined risks associated with FAAH inactivation, potential clinical results of FAAH inhibitors for the management of human diseases suggest strongly that the research not be abandoned. In the present commentary we argue that the way to move forward safely and effectively may lie in universal expansion of clinical trials guidelines and toxicology protocols to include targeted genomic screening of clinical trial subjects. Generalization to the safety testing of many new pharmaceutical agents may be the silver lining of an otherwise dark cloud.
Clinical And Plantar Fascial Morphologic Changes After Proximal Medial Gastrocnemius Release Treatment of Recalcitrant Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Ginés-Cespedosa Alberto , Ugarte Ignacio Wormull , Ares-Vidal Jesus , Solano-Lopez Alberto , Adames Daniel Bianco , Gamba Carlo
Published: July 2021

Background:

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used as a diagnostic and prognostic instrument to evaluate the results of conservative treatment for plantar fasciitis. However, there are scarce data available relative to changes in the plantar fascia after operative treatment. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the imaging changes in patients with recalcitrant plantar fasciitis treated operatively by means of proximal medial gastrocnemius release.

Methods:

Thirteen patients with recalcitrant plantar fasciitis were studied with MRI preoperatively and 1 year after operative treatment. Quantitative (plantar fascia thickness) and qualitative variables (hyperintensity in the plantar fascia, insertional calcaneus bone edema, a plantar fascia tear, and the presence of perifascial collections) were assessed by 2 musculoskeletal radiologists. Clinical results were also measured with American Orthopaedic Ankle & Society (AOFAS), visual analog scale (VAS) pain, and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) scales.

Results:

The mean plantar fascia thickness was 6.59 mm preoperatively and 6.37 mm postoperatively ( P = .972). No statistically significant differences were found in any of the qualitative variables on comparing the pre- and postoperative periods. Patients reported clinical improvements in pain VAS, AOFAS measurement, and the physical subdomains of the SF-36 scale.

Conclusion:

Quantitative and qualitative variables assessed for the plantar fascia on MRI did not show any significant change after medial gastrocnemius release despite clear clinical improvement.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, perspective cohort study.
Assessing Entrepreneurial Types and Goals With Diverse Student Groups
Authors: Bendickson Josh , Matherne Curtis F. , Credo Keith R. , Franques Mary Catherine O. , Sheats Lewis
Published: July 2021

Students should clearly understand that different types of entrepreneurship exist. It is effective to connect the diversity of entrepreneurial form with students from a multidisciplinary scope of knowledge in the form of engaged learning. This learning innovation exercise helps diverse student bodies such as science, technology, engineering, arts, and math students (STEAM), to apply their knowledge of entrepreneurship basics and each entrepreneurship type and to be prepared to verbally defend their decisions in the presence of other future entrepreneurs. Although this exercise follows Steve Blank’s categorization of entrepreneurship types (i.e., small business entrepreneurship, scalable startup entrepreneurship, large company entrepreneurship, and social entrepreneurship), educators adopting this exercise can readily replace or add other entrepreneurship types that are more relevant to a specific course or that (s)he wishes for students to more fully understand. This learning innovation is intended for implementation at the undergraduate level in medium sized introduction to entrepreneurship courses that includes students from STEAM. Students will gain experience in analyzing and problem solving related to the different types of entrepreneurship. Students will also be provided the space for group discussion and personal decision making thus fostering the development of crucial entrepreneurial skills necessary after graduation.
Interdisciplinary Skills for STEAM Entrepreneurship Education
Authors: Stenard Briana Sell
Published: July 2021

This research seeks to understand which skills entrepreneurs in the different STEAM disciplines are using in their careers and if these skills differ from those being used by workers who major in STEAM fields but do not become entrepreneurs. The empirical analysis uses a large sample of more than 99,000 people from the restricted use National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Scientists and Engineers Statistical Data System (SESTAT). This work investigates the skills actually being used by entrepreneurs with undergraduate degrees in the STEAM disciplines to better inform what is being taught in the undergraduate classroom and to make sure learning objectives are in line with student career goals. This paper argues the need for more interdisciplinary skills to be taught in STEAM entrepreneurship curriculums.
Counter-terrorism measures and perceptions of police legitimacy: The importance Muslims place on procedural justice, representative bureaucracy, and bounded-authority concerns
Authors: Ali Mohammed M. , Murphy Kristina , Cherney Adrian
Published: July 2021

Engaging Muslims in counter-terrorism (CT) has proved challenging for police worldwide. Some research has focussed on the utility of police being procedurally just in their CT strategies to enhance their legitimacy and subsequent cooperation from Muslims. Despite the efficacy of procedural justice, however, some have argued that procedural justice scholarship is too narrowly focussed on how police treat citizens. Citizens’ concerns about police acting within the limits of appropriate power (i.e., “bounded-authority” concerns), as well as representativeness in policing (i.e., “representative bureaucracy”), can also influence citizens’ judgments of police legitimacy. This study explores how, when, and why procedural justice, bounded authority, and representation concerns shape Muslims’ perceptions of police CT measures and police legitimacy. Using focus group data from 104 Australian-Muslims, results revealed that CT measures that include Muslims as partners in terrorism prevention and those that draw on principles of procedural justice were perceived most favourably, and were seen to promote police legitimacy. Measures that were condemned were perceived as bounded-authority violations and damaged police legitimacy. Implications for theory and police practice are discussed.
CD63 is regulated by iron via the IRE-IRP system and is important for ferritin secretion by extracellular vesicles
Authors: Yanatori Izumi , Richardson Des R. , Dhekne Herschel S. , Toyokuni Shinya , Kishi Fumio
Published: July 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) transfer functional molecules between cells. CD63 is a widely recognized EV marker that contributes to EV secretion from cells. However, the regulation of its expression remains largely unknown. Ferritin is a cellular iron storage protein that can also be secreted by the exosome pathway, and serum ferritin levels classically reflect body iron stores. Iron metabolism–associated proteins such as ferritin are intricately regulated by cellular iron levels via the iron responsive element-iron regulatory protein (IRE-IRP) system. Herein, we present a novel mechanism demonstrating that the expression of the EV-associated protein CD63 is under the regulation of the IRE-IRP system. We discovered a canonical IRE in the 5′ untranslated region of CD63 messenger RNA that is responsible for regulating its expression in response to increased iron. Cellular iron loading caused a marked increase in CD63 expression and the secretion of CD63+ EVs from cells, which were shown to contain ferritin-H and ferritin-L. Our results demonstrate that under iron loading, intracellular ferritin is transferred via nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4) to CD63+ EVs that are then secreted. Such iron-regulated secretion of the major iron storage protein ferritin via CD63+ EVs, is significant for understanding the local cell-to-cell exchange of ferritin and iron.
Environmental risk assessment of veterinary medicinal products intended for use in aquaculture in Europe: the need for developing a harmonised approach
Authors: de la Casa-Resino Irene , Empl Michael T. , Villa Sara , Kolar Boris , Fabrega Julia , Lillicrap Adam D. , Karamanlis Xanthippos N. , Carapeto-García Ricardo
Published: July 2021

The current and future expansion of aquaculture production appears to be only manageable by using veterinary medicinal products (VMPs) to prevent and reduce disease outbreaks. However, only a very low number of VMPs are available for use in aquaculture systems. In addition, the environmental risk potentially emanating from the use of these products has gained increased attention in the last years. In this context, the present review represents an in-depth analysis of the current two-tiered (phase I and phase II) approach for the environmental risk assessment (ERA) of VMPs mandatory in the European Union and the European Economic Area (EU/EEA), and its applicability to medicinal products intended for use in aquaculture. The following conclusions are drawn: (i) the current regulatory guidance documents detailing the phase I and II ERA procedure should be updated and harmonised across Member States and simple approach(es) applicable to the assessment of the environmental exposure of VMPs intended for use in aquaculture facilities should be devised; (ii) current and future regulatory guidance documents detailing the phase II ERA procedure for VMPs intended for use in aquaculture should comprise advanced mathematical models suitable for addressing different exposure scenarios relevant across the whole EU/EEA (including scenarios addressing the exposure of VMPs to agricultural soils from fish sludge); and (iii) it is recommended that any updates of relevant ERA guidelines clearly detail the types of studies needed to determine potential adverse effects of VMPs used in aquaculture on non-target organisms. Furthermore, the application of risk mitigation measures tailored to the reduction of the environmental exposure of VMPs on an individual aquaculture farm level should be considered in any future or updated guideline. Finally, it is anticipated that the present analysis of the main drawbacks surrounding the current ERA regulatory framework will help competent authorities to harmonise and facilitate the approval process for VMPs intended for use in aquaculture.
SPLICE-q: a Python tool for genome-wide quantification of splicing efficiency
Authors: de Melo Costa Verônica R. , Pfeuffer Julianus , Louloupi Annita , Ørom Ulf A. V. , Piro Rosario M.
Published: July 2021

Background

Introns are generally removed from primary transcripts to form mature RNA molecules in a post-transcriptional process called splicing. An efficient splicing of primary transcripts is an essential step in gene expression and its misregulation is related to numerous human diseases. Thus, to better understand the dynamics of this process and the perturbations that might be caused by aberrant transcript processing it is important to quantify splicing efficiency.

Results

Here, we introduce SPLICE-q, a fast and user-friendly Python tool for genome-wide SPLICing Efficiency quantification. It supports studies focusing on the implications of splicing efficiency in transcript processing dynamics. SPLICE-q uses aligned reads from strand-specific RNA-seq to quantify splicing efficiency for each intron individually and allows the user to select different levels of restrictiveness concerning the introns’ overlap with other genomic elements such as exons of other genes. We applied SPLICE-q to globally assess the dynamics of intron excision in yeast and human nascent RNA-seq. We also show its application using total RNA-seq from a patient-matched prostate cancer sample.

Conclusions

Our analyses illustrate that SPLICE-q is suitable to detect a progressive increase of splicing efficiency throughout a time course of nascent RNA-seq and it might be useful when it comes to understanding cancer progression beyond mere gene expression levels. SPLICE-q is available at: https://github.com/vrmelo/SPLICE-q
The DUB family in Populus: identification, characterization, evolution and expression patterns
Authors: Zheng Wenqing , Du Liang
Published: July 2021

Background

The deubiquitinase (DUB) family constitutes a group of proteases that regulate the stability or reverse the ubiquitination of many proteins in the cell. These enzymes participate in cell-cycle regulation, cell division and differentiation, diverse physiological activities such as DNA damage repair, growth and development, and response to stress. However, limited information is available on this family of genes in woody plants.

Results

In the present study, 88 DUB family genes were identified in the woody model plant Populus trichocarpa, comprising 44 PtrUBP, 3 PtrUCH, 23 PtrOTU, 4 PtrMJD, and 14 PtrJAMM genes with similar domains. According to phylogenetic analysis, the PtrUBP genes were classified into 16 groups, the PtrUCH genes into two, the PtrOTU genes into eight, the PtrMJD genes into two, and the PtrJAMM genes into seven. Members of same subfamily had similar gene structure and motif distribution characteristics. Synteny analysis of the DUB family genes from P. thrchocarpa and four other plant species provided insight into the evolutionary traits of DUB genes. Expression profiles derived from previously published transcriptome data revealed distinct expression patterns of DUB genes in various tissues. On the basis of the results of analysis of promoter cis-regulatory elements, we selected 16 representative PtrUBP genes to treatment with abscisic acid, methyl jasmonate, or salicylic acid applied as a foliar spray. The majority of PtrUBP genes were upregulated in response to the phytohormone treatments, which implied that the genes play potential roles in abiotic stress response in Populus.

Conclusions

The results of this study broaden our understanding of the DUB family in plants. Analysis of the gene structure, conserved elements, and expression patterns of the DUB family provides a solid foundation for exploration of their specific functions in Populus and to elucidate the potential role of PtrUBP gene in abiotic stress response.
Global analysis of protein lysine 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation (Khib) profiles in Chinese herb rhubarb (Dahuang)
Authors: Qi Tong , Li Jinping , Wang Huifang , Han Xiaofan , Li Junrong , Du Jinzhe
Published: July 2021

Background

Lysine 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation (Khib) is a newly discovered protein posttranslational modification (PTM) and is involved in the broad-spectrum regulation of cellular processes that are found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including in plants. The Chinese herb rhubarb (Dahuang) is one of the most widely used traditional Chinese medicines in clinical applications. To better understand the physiological activities and mechanism of treating diseases with the herb, it is necessary to conduct intensive research on rhubarb. However, Khib modification has not been reported thus far in rhubarb.

Results

In this study, we performed the first global analysis of Khib-modified proteins in rhubarb by using sensitive affinity enrichment combined with high-accuracy HPLC-MS/MS tandem spectrometry. A total of 4333 overlapping Khib modification peptides matched on 1525 Khib-containing proteins were identified in three independent tests. Bioinformatics analysis showed that these Khib-containing proteins are involved in a wide range of cellular processes, particularly in protein biosynthesis and central carbon metabolism and are distributed mainly in chloroplasts, cytoplasm, nucleus and mitochondria. In addition, the amino acid sequence motif analysis showed that a negatively charged side chain residue (E), a positively charged residue (K), and an uncharged residue with the smallest side chain (G) were strongly preferred around the Khib site, and a total of 13 Khib modification motifs were identified. These identified motifs can be classified into three motif patterns, and some motif patterns are unique to rhubarb and have not been identified in other plants to date.

Conclusions

A total of 4333 Khib-modified peptides on 1525 proteins were identified. The Khib-modified proteins are mainly distributed in the chloroplast, cytoplasm, nucleus and mitochondria, and involved in a wide range of cellular processes. Moreover, three types of amino acid sequence motif patterns, including EKhib/KhibE, GKhib and k.kkk….Khib….kkkkk, were extracted from a total of 13 Khib-modified peptides. This study provides comprehensive Khib-proteome resource of rhubarb. The findings from the study contribute to a better understanding of the physiological roles of Khib modification, and the Khib proteome data will facilitate further investigations of the roles and mechanisms of Khib modification in rhubarb.
Benzylpenicillin-producing Trichophyton erinacei and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus carrying the mecC gene on European hedgehogs – A pilot-study
Authors: Dube Faruk , Söderlund Robert , Lampinen Salomonsson Matilda , Troell Karin , Börjesson Stefan
Published: July 2021

Background

A high carriage rate of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus with the mecC gene (mecC-MRSA) has been described among Wild European hedgehogs (Europeaus erineaus). Due to this frequent occurrence, it has been suggested that hedgehogs could be a natural reservoir for mecC-MRSA. However, the reason why hedgehogs carry mecC-MRSA remains unknown, but it has been hypothesized that mecC-MRSA could have evolved on the skin of hedgehogs due to the co-occurrence with antibiotic producing dermatophytes. The aim of this pilot-study was therefore to investigate if hedgehogs in Sweden carry Trichophyton spp. and to provide evidence that these dermatophytes are able to produce penicillin or similar substances. In addition, the study aimed to identify if dermatophytes co-occurred with mecC-MRSA.

Methods

Samples were collected from hedgehogs (Europeaus erineaus) that were euthanized or died of natural causes. All samples were screened for dermatophytes and mecC-MRSA using selective cultivation methods. Suspected isolates were characterized using PCR-based methods, genome sequencing and bioinformatic analyses. Identification of penicillin was performed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

In total 23 hedgehogs were investigated, and it was shown that two carried Trichophyton erinacei producing benzyl-penicillin, and that these hedgehogs also carried mecC-MRSA. The study also showed that 60% of the hedgehogs carried mecC-MRSA.

Conclusion

The pilot-study demonstrated that Trichophyton erinacei, isolated from Swedish hedgehogs, can produce benzylpenicillin and that these benzylpenicillin-producing T. erinacei co-occurred with mecC-MRSA. The study also reconfirmed the high occurrence of mecC-MRSA among hedgehogs.
Normal values for high-resolution anorectal manometry in healthy young adults: evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Cuong Le Manh , Van Quyet Ha , Hung Tran Manh , Anh Nguyen Ngoc , Ha Tran Thu , Van Du Vu , Van Loi Do , Khai Ha Huu Hoang , Kien Vu Duy
Published: July 2021

Background

High-resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM) has been developed to improve measurement of anorectal functions. This study aims to identify normal HRAM values in healthy young Vietnamese adults.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study at the National Hospital of Traditional Medicine (Hanoi, Vietnam) from July through December 2014. Healthy young adults were invited to participate in the study. All anorectal measurement values were performed using the ISOLAB high-resolution manometry system. Differences between groups were analyzed using Student’s t-tests.

Results

Thirty healthy young adults, including 15 males and 15 females aged 19–26 years, were recruited. Mean functional anal canal length was 3.4 ± 0.5 cm (range: 2.4–4.8 mm). Mean maximum resting pressure, mean maximum squeezing pressure, mean maximum coughing pressure, and mean maximum strain pressure were 65.5, 168.0, 125.9, and 84.2 mm Hg, respectively. All anal pressure values were significantly different between males and females. For rectal sensation measurements, only the volume at first sensation was significantly higher in males than in females.

Conclusions

This study provides normal HRAM value for healthy young adults in Vietnam. Sex may influence anal pressure and first rectal sensation values in this cohort. Further studies should be conducted in order to improve the quality of HRAM normal values and to confirm the effects of sex.