bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What makes an optimal delivery for PrEP against HIV: A qualitative study in MSM
Authors: Lau Janice Y. C. , Wong Ngai-Sze , Lee Krystal C. K. , Kwan Tsz-Ho , Lui Grace C. Y. , Chan Denise P. C. , Lee Shui-Shan
Published: January 2022

Background

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective means of HIV prevention for men who have sex with men (MSM), a key population whose engagement is crucial for achieving effective public health outcomes. An optimal service model would be important in planning the implementation of PrEP in places where such service has not been established.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted to delineate the attributes of an optimal PrEP service model for MSM in Hong Kong, a city where no formal PrEP programs existed. Twenty purposively sampled MSM who were enrollees of two pilot PrEP projects participated in the semi-structured interviews promoting story-telling. The coded data were thematically analyzed following Grounded Theory approach, focusing on uncovering a typology of the essential attributes of an optimal PrEP service model, and the reasons for such preferences.

Results

Participating MSM were all ethnic Chinese and aged 26 to 52 years. All had received PrEP from pilot projects in conjunction with periodic screening of sexually transmitted infections (STI), HIV antibody, and plasma creatinine. Four major themes emerged as regards the attributes of a preferred PrEP service: (i) comprehensiveness of HIV/STI and safety monitoring; (ii) convenient unitary service; (iii) stigma-free PrEP access and protecting confidentiality; and (iv) affordable price. Whereas regular provision of PrEP was acceptable to MSM, unaffordability and related stigma were the anticipated challenges for potential service providers.

Conclusions

The qualitative assessment of MSM’s preference for PrEP service delivery has yielded important information on the many facets of a desirable service model.
The potential use of serum interleukin-21 as biomarker for lupus nephritis activity compared to cytokines of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family
Authors: Shater Hend , Fawzy Mary , Farid Alyaa , El-Amir Azza , Fouad Salwa , Madbouly Neveen
Published: January 2022

Objective

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a significant consequence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that focuses on evaluation of serum interleukin (IL-) 21 as a diagnostic biomarker of LN activity, compared to B lymphocyte stimulator (BlyS), tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 13 (TNF-SF13), and traditional techniques of active LN attempting to compare their diagnostic usefulness.

Methods

Serum levels of IL-21, BlyS, and TNF-SF13 during LN were investigated. Twenty-five biopsy-proven, active LN female patients and 15 SLE patients without active LN and 20 healthy controls (HCs) joined this work.

Results

Serum IL-21 level was significantly higher in active LN group than in inactive LN group. Correlation analysis showed that serum IL-21 levels were significantly correlated with total SLEDAI (r = 0.41, p = 0.03), renal-SLEDAI (r = 0.48, p = 0.04), renal activity index (AI) (r = 0.93; p < 0.001), and 24-h proteinuria (r = 0.51; p > 0.008). Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) revealed the ability of serum IL-21 to discriminate between active and inactive LN with 70% sensitivity at >240 pg/ml cutoff point (AUC 0.809).

Conclusion

For Egyptian SLE patients, serum levels of IL-21 were superior to TNF-SF13 and BlyS and correlated significantly with the activity indexes of LN, indicating a promising role as a potential biomarker of active LN.
Prenatal predisposing factors associated with neonatal lupus erythematosus
Authors: Anuwutnavin Sanitra , Chuenchitkultavorn Varisa , Nitiyarom Rattanavalai , Rekhawasin Thanapa , Kanjanauthai Supaluck , Sompagdee Nalat
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To identify the prenatal predisposing factors related to neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE).

Materials and Methods

A retrospective case-control study was made of 131 pregnant women with positive anti-Ro or anti-La autoantibodies and known neonatal outcomes between January 2002 and December 2019 at Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand. There were 101 unaffected neonates and 30 NLE cases confirmed postnatally. Demographic and clinical data of the mothers and neonates with and without NLE were statistically compared.

Results

NLE was diagnosed in 30 out of 131 cases. A multivariate analysis identified the following significant factors for NLE: maternal anti-La antibodies (odds ratio (OR), 3.591; p = 0.030); and maternal treatment with either hydroxychloroquine (OR, 0.082; p = 0.001) or prednisolone (OR, 0.136; p = 0.017). Of the significant variables examined in the multivariate analysis models, high levels of maternal anti-La antibodies were found to be the strongest predictor of noncardiac NLE (OR, 4.558; p = 0.032), while a female baby was significantly higher in pregnancies complicated by cardiac NLE (OR, 5.374; p = 0.046). Hydroxychloroquine still provided a protective effect for both cardiac and noncardiac NLE ( p = 0.039 and 0.032, respectively).

Conclusions

The maternal anti-La antibodies were a beneficial predictor for NLE, especially as their high titers were influentially associated with noncardiac features. A female fetus seemed to present an increased risk for developing a congenital heart block. Nevertheless, the treatment with hydroxychloroquine during the pregnancies demonstrated a potentially protective factor against both cardiac and noncardiac manifestations.
Are the Average Effects of Foster Care Placement Really Close to Zero?
Authors: Wakefield Sara , Wildeman Christopher
Published: January 2022

In their provocative article, Barth and colleagues interrogate existing research on a series of claims about the child welfare system. In this reply, we focus on just one of their conclusions: that foster care placement does little, on average, to cause the poor outcomes of children who are ever placed in care. Our argument proceeds in three stages. In the first, we dispute the claim that the average effects of foster care placement on children are “settled” in any scientific sense. In the second, we note that the lack of agreement about what constitutes the appropriate counterfactual makes the idea of average effects of foster care placement in this area problematic. In the third, we problematize the idea that near-zero average effects equate to unimportant effects by showing how different types of effect heterogeneity may lead us to think differently about how the system is working.
“They Didn’t Ask.” Rural Women With Disabilities and Experiences of Violence Describe Interactions With the Healthcare System
Authors: Aguillard Kimberly , Hughes Rosemary , Gemeinhardt Gretchen L. , Schick Vanessa , McCurdy Sheryl
Published: January 2022

Women with disabilities are at risk of experiencing multiple forms of severe and prolonged violence, yet guidelines for screening this population are unclear, screening rates are historically low, and screening tools may be inadequate to capture disability-related aspects of abuse. We conducted qualitative in-depth interviews with 33 rural women in the United States with diverse disabilities and experiences of violence. They described overarching healthcare provider and system factors that influenced their trust and confidence in healthcare delivery as an avenue to support their safety. Women described interactions with the healthcare system during their experience of violence as a missed opportunity for identifying and responding to their abuse and connecting them with resources. We conclude with policy and practice recommendations based on women with disabilities’ perspectives and insights.
Smart control of functionally graded sandwich plates by incorporating Murakami zig-zag function
Authors: Khan Nuruzzama M , Kumar R Suresh
Published: January 2022

This study is aimed at incorporating the zig-zag effect by Murakami zig-zag function in the development of a finite element model for active constraining layer damping treatment of functionally graded sandwich plates. The present sandwich construction consists of functionally graded facings distanced by a ceramic core. The substrate functionally graded plate is subjected to active constraining layer damping treatment, which in itself is a two-layered material system comprised of a viscoelastic layer and a 1–3 piezoelectric composite layer. The deformation kinematics of the functionally graded sandwich plate active constraining layer damping system is shaped using Murakami zig-zag function , and the finite element model is obtained by the virtual work principle. A standard feedback control system has been implemented, and a MATLAB subroutine has been developed to present the open- and closed-loop responses. Substrate plates with functionally graded configurations 1-1-1, 1-2-1, and 2-1-2 are considered to evaluate the effect of active constraining layer damping on damping the frequency responses of these plates. Investigation on damping performance has been carried out, bearing in mind the change in power-law index with top and bottom ceramic-/metal-rich surfaces. Also, the effect of variation in fiber orientation angle (obliquely reinforced) of the piezoelectric composite material on the active constraining layer damping performance has been examined thoroughly.
Evaluating the Prognostic Implication of the Collins Histology Scoring System in a Pediatric Eastern Ontario Population With Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Authors: El Demellawy Dina , Oltean Irina , Hayawi Lamia , Agarwal Amisha , Webster Richard , de Nanassy Joseph , Chernetsova Elizaveta
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Collins et al developed a histology scoring system (EoE HSS) to assess multiple pathologic features. The aim of this study is to identify if the EoE HSS can better detect endoscopic and symptom improvement vs the Peak Eosinophilic Count (PEC). Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed for patients during 2014–2016. All patients ≤18 years old with a diagnosis of EoE and whose records included initial and follow-up upper gastrointestinal endoscopies were included. Severity and extent of endoscopic features were scored using 8 parameters, from normal to maximum change for each location of the esophageal biopsy. Results: Forty patients with EoE were included in the study, of which 35 (87.5%) patients demonstrated symptom and 25 (62.5%) endoscopic improvement at the time of follow-up. In the proximal esophagus, the EoE HSS outperformed the change in eosinophil count of the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) practice in predicting endoscopic improvement by 16.8% when examining the change in grade and 17.1% when examining the change in stage scores. Conclusions: At our institution, adoption of the EoE HSS in assessing biopsies of EoE patients might be warranted, compared to the traditional practice. However, a bigger sample size may give a more robust difference in all locations.
The Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Functional Polymorphism and Hand Grip Strength Impact the Association between Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels and Cognition in Older Adults in the United States
Authors: Liu Tingting , Li Hongjin , Conley Yvette P. , Primack Brian A. , Wang Jing , Li Changwei
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Aging is associated with subtle cognitive decline in attention, memory, executive function, processing speed, and reasoning. Although lower brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been linked to cognitive decline among older adults, it is not known if the association differs among individuals with various BDNF Val66Met (rs6265) genotypes. In addition, it is not clear whether these associations vary by hand grip strength or physical activity (PA).

Methods

A total of 2904 older adults were included in this study using data from the Health and Retirement Study. Associations between serum BDNF and measures of cognitive function were evaluated using multivariable linear regression models stratified by Met allele status. PA and hand grip strength were added to the model to evaluate whether including these variables altered associations between serum BDNF and cognition.

Results

Mean age was 71.4 years old, and mean body mass index was 28.3 kg/m2. Serum BDNF levels were positively associated with higher total cognitive score (beta = 0.34, p = .07), mental status (beta = 0.16, p = .07), and word recall (beta = 0.22, p =.04) among Met carriers, while serum BDNF levels were negatively associated with mental status (beta = −0.09, p = .07) among non-Met carriers. Furthermore, associations changed when hand grip strength was added to the model but not when PA was added to the model.

Conclusions

The BDNF Val66Met variant may moderate the association between serum BDNF levels and cognitive function in older adults. Furthermore, such associations differ according to hand grip strength but not PA.
Dietary Sodium, Potassium, and Sodium to Potassium Ratio in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Correa-Rodríguez María , DelOlmo-Romero Sara , Pocovi-Gerardino Gabriela , Callejas-Rubio José-Luis , Ríos-Fernández Raquel , Ortego-Centeno Norberto , Rueda-Medina Blanca
Published: January 2022

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between dietary sodium, potassium, and sodium:potassium ratio and clinical disease activity parameters, damage accrual, and cardiovascular disease risk factors in a population of patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE). Research design and study sample: A cross-sectional study including a total of 280 patients was conducted (90.4% females; mean age 46.9 ± 12.85 years). Data collection: The SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI-2K) and the SDI Damage Index were used to assess disease activity and disease-related damage, respectively. A 24-hour diet recall was used to estimate dietary intake of sodium and potassium. Results: Dietary sodium intake was significantly associated with anti-dsDNA ( β  =  −.005; 95% CI [.002 .008]; p = .001) and complement C4 level ( β  =  −.002; 95% CI [−.003, .000]; p = .039). Dietary potassium intake was also significantly associated with complement C3 level ( β  =  −.004; 95% CI [−.007, −.001]; p = .021). Multiple logistic regression models revealed a positive association between dietary sodium intake and the risk of having hsCRP > 3 ( p = .005) and an inverse association between dietary potassium intake and the risk of having hsCRP > 3 ( p = .004). Conclusions: SLE patients with higher dietary sodium and lower dietary potassium intakes had an increased risk of higher hsCRP. Dietary sodium intake was significantly associated with anti-dsDNA and complement C4 level, while dietary potassium intake was associated with complement C3 level, supporting that dietary sodium and potassium intakes might play a key role in markers related to disease activity in SLE patients.
Higher risk of 2-year cup revision of ceramic-on-ceramic versus ceramic-on-polyethylene bearing: analysis of 33,454 primary press-fit total hip arthroplasties registered in the Dutch Arthroplasty Register (LROI)
Authors: van Loon Justin , Sierevelt Inger N , Spekenbrink-Spooren Anneke , Opdam Kim TM , Poolman Rudolf W , Kerkhoffs Gino MMJ , Haverkamp Daniël
Published: January 2022

Background and purpose:

The influence of bearing on short-term revision in press-fit total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains under-reported. The aim of this study was to describe 2-year cup revision rates of ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) and ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoPE).

Patients and methods:

Primary press-fit THAs with one of the three most used cups available with both CoC or CoPE bearing recorded in the Dutch Arthroplasty Register (LROI) were included (2007–2019). Primary outcome was 2-year cup revision for all reasons. Secondary outcomes were: reasons for revision, incidence of different revision procedures and use of both bearings over time.

Results:

2-year Kaplan-Meier cup revision rate in 33,454 THAs (12,535 CoC; 20,919 CoPE) showed a higher rate in CoC (0.67% [95% CI, 0.54–0.81]) compared to CoPE (0.44% [95% CI, 0.34–0.54]) ( p = 0.004). Correction for confounders (age, gender, cup type, head size) resulted in a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.64 [95%CI, 0.48–0.87] ( p = 0.019). Reasons for cup revision differed only by more cup revision due to loosening in CoC (26.2% vs.1 3.2%) ( p = 0.030). For aseptic loosening a revision rate of 0.153% [95% CI, 0.075–0.231] was seen in CoC and 0.058% [95%CI 0.019–0.097] in CoPE ( p = 0.007). Correction for head size resulted in a HR of 0.475 [95% CI, 0.197–1.141] ( p = 0.096). Incidence of different revision procedures did not differ between bearings. Over time the use of CoPE has increased and CoC decreased.

Conclusions:

A higher 2-year cup revision rate in press-fit THA was observed in CoC compared to CoPE. Cup loosening was the only significantly different reason for revision and seen more often in CoC and mostly aseptic. Future randomised controlled trials need to confirm causality, since the early cup revision data provided has the potential to be useful when choosing the bearing in press-fit THA, when combined with other factors like bone quality and patient and implant characteristics.
Proportional ranking in primary elections: A case study
Authors: Rosenfeld Ariel , Shapiro Ehud , Talmon Nimrod
Published: January 2022

Many democratic political parties hold primary elections, which nicely reflects their democratic nature and promotes, among other things, the democratic value of inclusiveness. However, the methods currently used for holding such primary elections may not be the most suitable, especially if some form of proportional ranking is desired. In this paper, we compare different algorithmic methods for holding primaries (i.e., different aggregation methods for voters’ ballots) by evaluating the degree of proportional ranking that is achieved by each of them using real-world data. In particular, we compare six different algorithms by analyzing real-world data from a recent primary election conducted by the Israeli Democratit party. Technically, we analyze unique voter data and evaluate the proportionality achieved by means of cluster analysis, aiming at pinpointing the representation that is granted to different voter groups under each of the algorithmic methods considered. Our findings suggest that, contrary to the most-prominent primaries algorithm used (i.e., Approval), other methods such as Sequential Proportional Approval or Phragmen can bring about better proportional ranking and thus may be better suited for primary elections in practice.
Eccentric compression behaviour of rectangular concrete-filled steel tube columns with self-compacting lower expansion concrete
Authors: Qu XiuShu , Deng Yuxiang , Sun GuoJun , Liu Qingwen , Liu Qi
Published: January 2022

The use of a self-compacting lower expansion concrete in a concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) structure not only promotes the quality of concrete pouring but also improves the bond behaviour between the steel and the concrete. In combination with the actual stress state of the columns in the engineering structure, it is necessary to study the eccentric compression behaviour of the column. In this study, experimental studies involving both uniaxial and biaxial bending tests of rectangular self-compacting lower expansion CFST columns were carried out. The variation laws of the load–displacement curves, the lateral deflection curves and the stress–strain curves during the loading phase were analysed. Furthermore, the failure modes and the mechanical properties of the specimens under eccentric compression loads were investigated. Subsequently, the numerical models of CFST columns with self-compacting lower expansion concrete were considered and established. In order to verify the rationality of the finite element modelling, the numerical calculation results were compared with test results. Then, a parametric analysis of the compression and the bending bearing capacities of each column was carried out by changing the eccentricity of the load, and the N–M curves or N-Mx-My surfaces describing the ultimate bearing capacity of the column were obtained. Finally, by the parametric finite element analysis of the rectangular CFST columns regarding to the bearing capacity under the same eccentricity, a conclusion was obtained: when the expansion agent content γ of a specimen increased from 0% to 10%, the bearing capacity of the columns increases significantly, but when continue increasing the expansive agent content, the expansion agent content has little effect on the compression–bending bearing capacity.
Measurement of indoor environmental parameters and analysis of the condensation phenomenon in urban utility tunnels
Authors: Tai Chuanmin , Tian Guansan , Lei Wenjun
Published: January 2022

Condensation is a major issue in the safe operation of utility tunnels. To address the condensation problem, the indoor air temperature, relative humidity (RH) and surface temperature in an urban utility tunnel in Jining were continuously measured, and the condensation conditions were surveyed and analysed. The results indicated that under natural ventilation conditions, the air temperature in the comprehensive cabin varied from 23.4°C to 24.5°C, the RH fluctuated between 86.4% and 95.3%, and the corresponding air dew point temperature (DPT) remained in the range of 22.2°C–22.9°C. The surface temperature of the water supply pipeline ranged from 17.8°C to 18.5°C, which was far lower than the DPT in the tunnel, resulting in serious condensation. A water supply pipeline with an anti-condensation design was developed based on environmental test data. A 25-mm-thick rubber plastic sponge insulation layer was used to thermally insulate the water supply pipeline, preventing further dew condensation. Furthermore, mechanical ventilation had little effect on reducing the RH in the tunnel and may actually cause dew condensation; therefore, a ventilation control mode was proposed in this study. These results are expected to provide basic data for further research and reference for the safe management of utility tunnels.
Healthcare Professionals’ Own Experiences of Domestic Violence and Abuse: A Meta-Analysis of Prevalence and Systematic Review of Risk Markers and Consequences
Authors: Dheensa Sandi , McLindon Elizabeth , Spencer Chelsea , Pereira Stephanie , Shrestha Satya , Emsley Elizabeth , Gregory Alison
Published: January 2022

Background: Globally, healthcare professionals (HCPs) are increasingly asked to identify and respond to domestic violence and abuse (DVA) among patients. However, their own experiences of DVA have been largely ignored.

Aim: To determine the prevalence of current and lifetime DVA victimisation among HCPs globally, and identify risk markers, consequences and support-seeking for DVA.

Method: PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL ASSIA and ProQuest were searched. Studies about HCPs’ personal experience of any type of DVA from any health service/country were included. Meta-analysis and narrative synthesis were adopted.

Results: Fifty-one reports were included. Pooled lifetime prevalence was 31.3% (95% CI [24.7%, 38.7%] p < .001)) and past-year prevalence was 10.4% (95% CI [5.8%, 17.9%] p <.001). Pooled lifetime prevalence significantly differed (Qb=6.96, p < .01) between men (14.8%) and women (41.8%), and between HCPs in low-middle income (64.0%) and high-income countries (20.7%) (Qb = 31.41, p <.001). Risk markers were similar to those in the general population, but aspects of the HCP role posed additional and unique risks/vulnerabilities. Direct and indirect consequences of DVA meant HCP-survivors were less able to work to their best ability. While HCP-survivors were more likely than other HCPs to identify and respond to DVA among patients, doing so could be distressing. HCP-survivors faced unique barriers to seeking support. Being unable to access support – which is crucial for leaving or ending relationships with abusive people – leaves HCP-survivors entrapped.

Conclusion: Specialised DVA interventions for HCPs are urgently needed, with adaptations for different groups and country settings. Future research should focus on developing interventions with HCP-survivors.
Development and assessment of a knitted shape memory alloy-based multifunctional elbow brace
Authors: Jung Woo-Kyun , Lee Soo-Min , Ahn Sung-Hoon , Park Juyeon
Published: January 2022

Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease that affects joint cartilage and can cause severe pain and disability. Minor neglected injuries may also result in other diseases that affect daily life. Various attempts have been made to develop wearable auxiliary devices using functional fabrics, but few have simultaneously provided both heat and pressure. Using knitted shape memory alloy (SMA) fabric, a module was manufactured that achieved bending and contraction during operation. An elbow brace that simultaneously provided heat and pressure was developed using this module. Subjective evaluation and measurements of the range of motion (ROM), changes in skin temperature ( T sk ), clothing pressure ( P c), and blood flow ( F b) were conducted on the elbow brace while being worn by 10 participants. The multifunctional elbow brace (MFEB) developed in this study generated pressure and heat that increased T sk and P c, ultimately increasing F b. In addition, the ROM of the elbow joint was increased after actuating the elbow brace. Subjective evaluation of the heat and pressure sensation demonstrated its applicability to the human body. We confirmed that the elbow brace had a positive effect on F b and increased the ROM of the joint. These results show the applicability of smart textiles to the development of various wearable devices.
Beyond Services and Prescriptions: Reimagining Healthy Lifestyle Centers as Cooperative Enterprises
Authors: Ellery Jane , Ellery Peter J.
Published: January 2022

While the health-enhancing benefits of exercise and good nutrition have been well documented, the ability of health professionals to encourage healthier lifestyle behaviors among those they serve continues to prove challenging. Creating the conditions where healthier living can both occur and be sustained requires thinking beyond the traditional provision of services and prescriptions that occur in healthcare settings. Healthy Lifestyle Centers are emerging as a way of deploying lifestyle medicine practices. Turning these centers into cooperative businesses has the potential to make them more effective. Cooperative business principles are well established, and they enable individuals to become makers and producers of their own healthy lifestyles, providing a greater opportunity for sustained lifestyles changes. The purpose of this article is to further examine the role of engagement practices and coproduction as they relate to cooperative business models and to propose a framework for a Cooperative Healthy Lifestyle Center.
A novel endovascular method of atherectomy for calcified common femoral and popliteal disease using the crosser system: Crossbow and Rambow techniques
Authors: Sato Yusuke , Urasawa Kazushi , Tan Michinao , Hayashi Taichi , Miwa Takashi
Published: January 2022

Objectives

This study aims to report the efficacy and safety of new atherectomy methods using the Crosser system for calcified lesions in the common femoral and popliteal artery: the Crosser system supported by bended 0.014 wire (Crossbow) technique and retrograde approach of sheathless Crosser system supported by bended 0.014 wire (Rambow) technique.

Materials and Methods

This report describes a single-center, retrospective study. A total of 23 patients (mean ± SD age, 73 ± 10 years; 19 men) with symptomatic peripheral artery disease received the Crossbow technique and Rambow technique for treatment of calcified common femoral and popliteal disease; these patients were enrolled between October 2013 and October 2015. The primary efficacy outcome was acute technical success, defined as achievement of residual stenosis < 30% for stenting and < 50% for angioplasty or atherectomy. The primary safety outcome was assessed on the basis of angiographic complications.

Results

The Crossbow and Rambow techniques were undertaken in 100% and 17% of the patients, respectively. Acute technical success was achieved in 96% of the patients. There were two embolic events.

Conclusion

Crossbow and Rambow techniques could be effective atherectomy methods of calcified common femoral and popliteal disease. Regarding safety, embolic protection devices may be needed for our atherectomy methods.
Pets, People, and the Enduring ‘Dogaturgy’ of Nineteenth-Century Dog Dramas
Authors: Hughes Amy E.
Published: January 2022

Dogs began playing new roles as emotional companions in Eurowestern households during the mid-1800s; by the 1880s, dogs were widely considered ‘family members’ in middle-class homes. The nineteenth-century ‘dog drama’, a type of melodrama, helps illuminate how, when, and why this attitudinal change occurred. The transatlantic appeal of dog dramas (such as René-Charles Guilbert de Pixérécourt's 1814 melodrama The Dog of Montargis) and performers who specialised in the genre (such as U.S. actor-entrepreneur Edwin Blanchard) suggest that sentimental stories about dogs appealed to working-class people as well. These plays reflected, and perhaps contributed to, changing views about dogs during the nineteenth century. The dog drama and its afterlives (in film, television, and social media) shed light on both the good intentions and troubling contradictions inherent in humans’ relationships with nonhuman animals, especially pets.
5-Fluorouracil Neurotoxicity in the Absence of Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase Deficiency Case Report
Authors: Jules Rebecca , Thaper Arushi , Foster Ryan , Ameli Pouya , Robinson Christopher , Pizzi Michael , Babi Marc-Alain , Maciel Carolina B. , Busl Katharina M. , Reddy Raju , Roth William
Published: January 2022

5 fluorouracil (5-FU)-related neurotoxicity is a rare and severe complication of 5-FU administration. Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency is associated with an increased risk of serious adverse reactions due to its role in 5-FU metabolism. We report a case of acute reversible neurotoxicity with global areas of diffusion restriction in a patient with colorectal adenocarcinoma being treated with leucovorin calcium, 5-fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) without DPD deficiency following uridine triacetate administration.
Organophosphate poisoning from inappropriate topical use of malathion pesticide: A case report
Authors: Chua Joe Jia-Liang , Kuan Kaibin K.
Published: January 2022

A 43-year-old male with no past medical history presented to our emergency department with vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain of 3 h’ duration. Upon further questioning, he revealed that he had been applying malathion pesticide over his body for the past 3 days for self-diagnosed scabies. He was otherwise afebrile and hemodynamically stable, and the physical examination was unremarkable. The patient was diagnosed with organophosphate poisoning and treated symptomatically due to the lack of worrying cardiorespiratory or neurologic sequelae. He was subsequently admitted to the general ward, where his symptoms abated within 4 h. Serum and red blood cell cholinesterase tests sent on admission returned on day three and were significantly decreased (serum cholinesterase 2131 U/L, reference range 4700–12000 U/L; red blood cell cholinesterase 3365 U/L, reference range 7700–14600 U/L). He was discharged home well and stable on day 5 of admission, with outpatient psychiatric follow-up for likely delusional parasitosis.
On-Field Tests for Patients After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Scoping Review
Authors: Welling Wouter , Frik Laurens
Published: January 2022

Background:

After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), a patient’s physical capacities, such as (repeated) sprint performance, agility performance, and intermittent endurance performance, are often reduced because of detraining effects. Monitoring the progression of these physical capacities is essential for specific training goals before patients return to complex team sports.

Purpose:

To map the existing literature regarding on-field tests for (repeated) sprint performance, agility performance, and intermittent endurance performance in patients after ACLR.

Study Design:

Scoping review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A search was performed in 4 electronic databases, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycInfo, following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for scoping reviews.

Results:

There were 11 studies that met the inclusion criteria and described a total of 14 on-field tests for patients after ACLR. Overall, 2 tests were described for sprint performance, 11 tests were related to agility performance, and 1 test was performed for intermittent endurance performance.

Conclusion:

The results of this scoping review provide an overview of on-field tests to monitor sport-specific progression and to set performance-specific training goals for patients after ACLR before returning to complex team sports.
Restoration of Native Leg Length After Opening-Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy: An Intraindividual Analysis
Authors: Ackermann Jakob , Waltenspül Manuel , Germann Christoph , Vlachopoulos Lazaros , Fucentese Sandro F.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) has been shown to significantly increase leg length, especially in patients with large varus deformity. Thus, the current literature recommends closing-wedge high tibial osteotomy to correct malalignment in these patients to prevent postoperative leg length discrepancy. However, potential preoperative leg length discrepancy has not been considered yet.

Hypothesis:

It was hypothesized that patients have a decreased preoperative length of the involved leg compared with the contralateral side and that OWHTO would subsequently restore native leg length.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Included were 67 patients who underwent OWHTO for unilateral medial compartment knee osteoarthritis and who received full leg length assessment pre- and postoperatively. Patients with varus or valgus deformity (>3°) of the contralateral side were excluded. A musculoskeletal radiologist assessed imaging for the mechanical axis, full leg length, and tibial length of the involved and contralateral lower extremity. Statistical analysis determined the pre- and postoperative leg length discrepancy and the influence of the mechanical axis.

Results:

Most patients (62.7%) had a decreased length of the involved leg, with a mean preoperative mechanical axis of 5.0° ± 2.9°. Length discrepancy averaged –2.2 ± 5.8 mm, indicating a shortened involved extremity ( P = .003). OWHTO significantly increased the mean lengths of the tibia and lower limb by 3.6 ± 2.9 and 4.4 ± 4.7 mm ( P < .001), leading to a postoperative tibial and full leg length discrepancy of 2.8 ± 4.3 mm and 2.2 ± 7.3 mm ( P < .001 and P = .017, respectively). Preoperative leg length discrepancy was significantly correlated with the preoperative mechanical axis of the involved limb ( r = 0.292; P = .016), and the amount of correction was significantly associated with leg lengthening after OWHTO ( r = 0.319; P = .009). Patients with a varus deformity of ≥6.5° (n = 14) had a preoperative length discrepancy of –4.5 ± 1.6 mm ( P < .001) that was reduced to 1.8 ± 3.5 mm ( P = .08).

Conclusion:

Patients undergoing OWHTO have a preoperative leg length discrepancy that is directly associated with the varus deformity of the involved extremity. As OWHTO significantly increases leg length, restoration of native leg length can be achieved particularly in patients with large varus deformity.
Arabic Version of the Short Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Return to Sport After Injury Scale: Translation, Cross-cultural Adaptation, and Validation
Authors: Alzhrani Msaad , Alzahrani Hosam , Alshehri Yasir S.
Published: January 2022

Background:

The short version of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Return to Sport After Injury (ACL-RSI) scale is a self-reported questionnaire developed to assess the psychological readiness of patients to return to sports after ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Purpose:

To translate, cross-culturally adapt, and validate the short version of the ACL-RSI scale into the Arabic language (ACL-RSI-Ar).

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

The original short version of the ACL-RSI scale was forward and backward translated, cross-culturally adapted, and validated following international standardized guidelines. Sixty patients who participated in sports activities and underwent ACLR completed the ACL-RSI-Ar, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Evaluation Form, and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) scales. To assess test-retest reliability, 34 participants completed the ACL-RSI-Ar scale twice. Statistical tests were conducted to test the internal consistency, reliability, and construct and discriminant validity of the ACL-RSI-Ar scale.

Results:

The ACL-RSI-Ar showed adequate internal consistency (Cronbach alpha = 0.734) and excellent test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.871). The ACL-RSI-Ar was strongly correlated with the IKDC (Spearman ρ = 0.515, P < .001) and weakly to strongly correlated with all KOOS subscales (Spearman ρ = 0.247-0.590, P < .05). Patients who returned to sports had significantly higher scores on the ACL-RSI-Ar scale when compared with those who did not return to sports ( P = .001).

Conclusion:

The short ACL-RSI-Ar scale, as translated, was internally consistent, reliable, and valid for evaluating psychological readiness to return to sports after ACLR in Arabic-speaking patients.
Alexey Navalny: A hero of the new time
Authors: Etkind Alexander
Published: January 2022

Russian leaders first tried to poison him, then unlawfully imprisoned him, and now are publicly torturing him. His enemies see him as an illegitimate pretender to the Russian throne. His fans are captivated by his ability to survive assassinations and withstand torture. I was among those who nominated Alexey Navalny for the Nobel Peace Prize. Though he has not received it, this failure exposes meaningful though underappreciated truths about Russia and about the world. My story will leap back and forward between Navalny’s individual actions, the peculiarities of Putinism, and global issues of neoliberal governance.
Issues Facing Female Band Directors at the High School and College Levels: A Review of Literature
Authors: Brimhall Kathryn D.
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this review of literature was to investigate the unique issues facing female band directors at the high school and college levels. A search of 5 different databases was conducted, and 39 studies met the inclusion criteria for this study. Results of this review of literature are presented according to the following themes: (a) historical background, (b) underrepresentation and lack of female mentors, (c) motherhood, and (d) discrimination. Although the number of female high school and college band directors continues to increase, there are many different issues that women may face professionally. Despite these issues, women continue to persevere as they fight for their place on the podium. Recommendations for female music educators are provided, as well as suggestions for future research.
SORT1/LAMP2-mediated extracellular vesicle secretion and cell adhesion are linked to lenalidomide resistance in multiple myeloma
Authors: Yamamoto Tomofumi , Nakayama Jun , Yamamoto Yusuke , Kuroda Masahiko , Hattori Yutaka , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: January 2022

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematopoietic malignancy whose prognosis has improved with the development of new agents such as lenalidomide over the last decade. However, long-term exposure to drugs induces the acquisition of resistance by MM cells and leads to treatment failure and poor prognosis. Here, we show the molecular and cellular mechanisms of lenalidomide resistance in MM. In a comparison between lenalidomide-resistant cell lines and the parental cell lines, extracellular vesicle (EV) secretion and adherence abilities were significantly elevated in the resistant cells. Whole-transcriptome analysis revealed that the SORT1 and LAMP2 genes were key regulators of EV secretion. Silencing of these genes caused decreased EV secretion and loss of cell adhesion in the resistant cells, resulting in increased sensitivity to lenalidomide. Analysis of publicly available transcriptome data confirmed the relationship between genes related to EV secretion and cell adhesion and patient prognosis. Together, our findings reveal a novel mechanism of lenalidomide resistance in MM mediated by EV secretion and cell adhesion via SORT1 and LAMP2.
Ketogenic diet ameliorates lipid dysregulation in type 2 diabetic mice by downregulating hepatic pescadillo 1
Authors: Zhou Jielin , Lu Yao , Jia Yajing , Lu Jing , Jiang Zhengxuan , Chen Keyang
Published: January 2022

Background

Previous reports implied a possible link between PES1 and lipid metabolism. However, the role of PES1 in regulating T2DM related lipid metabolism and the effect of ketogenic diet (KD) on PES1 have not been reported. The aim of present study is to explore the role of PES1 in effects of KD on diabetic mice and its mediated mechanism.

Methods

Male C57BL/6J and KKAy mice were fed with standard diet (SD) and KD, respectively. Simultaneously, McArdle 7777 cells were treated by β-hydroxybutyric acid (β-HB), Pes1 siRNA or Pes1 overexpression plasmid, respectively. Additionally, liver-conditional knockout (CKO) of Pes1 in vivo was applied.

Results

Hepatic PES1 expression in diabetic mice was markedly increased, which was suppressed by KD feeding with an accompanying reduction of hepatic and plasma triglycerides (TG). In mice with CKO of Pes1, the protein levels of p300, SREBP1c, FASN, SCD1, Caspase1, NLRP3 and GSDMD were dramatically downregulated in livers, and the plasma and hepatic TG, IL-1β and IL-18 were decreased as well. The similar outcomes were also observed in β-HB and Pes1 knockdown treated hepatocytes. By contrast, Pes1 overexpression in cultured hepatocytes showed that these levels were significantly enhanced, which were, however reduced under β-HB treatment. Mechanistically, we discovered that β-HB decreased CHOP binding to the Pes1 promoters, resulting in the downregulation of PES1, thereby reducing PES1 binding to p300 and Caspase1 promoters. The inhibition of p300 and Caspase1 expression elicited the dramatic suppression of acetylation of SREBP1c via its interaction with p300, and the decreased GSDMD levels. Besides, knockdown of Caspase1 also alleviated the TG levels in cultured hepatocytes.

Conclusion

KD may improve lipid dysregulation in type 2 diabetic mice by downregulating hepatic PES1 expression.
Headache, anosmia, ageusia and other neurological symptoms in COVID-19: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sampaio Rocha-Filho Pedro Augusto , Albuquerque Pedro Mota , Carvalho Larissa Clementino Leite Sá , Dandara Pereira Gama Mylana , Magalhães João Eudes
Published: January 2022

Background

Neurological symptoms are frequent among patients with COVID-19. Little is known regarding the repercussions of neurological symptoms for patients and how these symptoms are related to one another.

Objectives

To determine whether there is an association between the neurological symptoms in patients with COVID-19, and to characterize the headache.

Method

This was a cross-sectional study. All hospital inpatients and health workers at the Hospital Universitario Oswaldo Cruz with a PCR-confirmed COVID-19 infection between March and June 2020 were considered for the study and were interviewed by telephone at least 2-months after the acute phase of the disease. These patients were identified by the hospital epidemiological surveillance department. A semi-structured questionnaire was used containing sociodemographic and clinical data and the ID-Migraine.

Results

A total of 288 patients was interviewed; 53.1% were male; with a median age of 49.9 (41.5–60.5) years; 91.7% presented some neurological symptom; 22.2% reported some neurological symptom as the symptom that troubled them most during COVID-19. Neurological symptoms were: ageusia (69.8%), headache (69.1%), anosmia (67%), myalgia (44.4%), drowsiness (37.2%), agitation (20.8%); mental confusion (14.9%), syncope (4.9%) and epileptic seizures (2.8%). Females, those who presented with fever, sore throat, anosmia/ageusia and myalgia also presented significantly more with headache (logistic regression). The most frequent headache phenotype was a non-migraine phenotype, was of severe intensity and differed from previous headaches. This persisted for more than 30 days in 18% and for more than 90 days in 10% of patients. Thirteen percent of those with anosmia and 11% with ageusia continued with these complaints after more than 90 days of the acute phase of the disease. Aged over 50 years, agitation and epileptic seizures were significantly associated with mental confusion (logistic regression).

Conclusion

Headache is frequent in COVID-19, is associated with other symptoms such as fever, sore throat, anosmia, ageusia, and myalgia, and may persist beyond the acute phase of the disease.
The functions and roles of sestrins in regulating human diseases
Authors: Chen Yitong , Huang Tingben , Yu Zhou , Yu Qiong , Wang Ying , Hu Ji’an , Shi Jiejun , Yang Guoli
Published: January 2022

Sestrins (Sesns), highly conserved stress-inducible metabolic proteins, are known to protect organisms against various noxious stimuli including DNA damage, oxidative stress, starvation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and hypoxia. Sesns regulate metabolism mainly through activation of the key energy sensor AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) and inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). Sesns also play pivotal roles in autophagy activation and apoptosis inhibition in normal cells, while conversely promoting apoptosis in cancer cells. The functions of Sesns in diseases such as metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer have been broadly investigated in the past decades. However, there is a limited number of reviews that have summarized the functions of Sesns in the pathophysiological processes of human diseases, especially musculoskeletal system diseases. One aim of this review is to discuss the biological functions of Sesns in the pathophysiological process and phenotype of diseases. More significantly, we include some new evidence about the musculoskeletal system. Another purpose is to explore whether Sesns could be potential biomarkers or targets in the future diagnostic and therapeutic process.
Effect of a Rubidium Chloride Carrier Confinement Layer on the Characteristics of CsPbBr3 Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Li Chi-Ta , Lee Kuan-Lin , Wang Sea-Fue , Chen Lung-Chien
Published: January 2022

This work describes the effect of a rubidium chloride (RbCl) interlayer in CsPbBr3 perovskite light-emitting diode (LED) structures. RbCl crystallites exhibited polyhedral structures and lattice parameters similar to those of CsPbBr3 perovskite crystallites. The lattice mismatch between the RbCl interlayer and CsPbBr3 active layer was only approximately 2%. The devices exhibited the best quality and performance when RbCl was used as the nucleation and carrier confinement layer. The crystallite sizes of CsPbBr3 with 0.2-, 0.5-, and 1-nm-thick RbCl bottom layers were 55.1, 65.4, and 55.1 nm, respectively. The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the photoluminescence (PL) emission peak for CsPbBr3 with the RbCl bottom layer was 0.096 eV.