bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Method for Prediction the Trajectory of Table Tennis in Multirotation State Based on Binocular Vision
Authors: Cai Guan Lan
Published: April 2022

The research on the space trajectory of high-speed moving and flying objects has very important research significance and application value in the fields of sports, military, aerospace, and industry. Table tennis has the characteristics of small size, fast flight speed, and complex motion model. It is very suitable as an experimental object for the study of flying object trajectory. This study takes table tennis as the research object to carry out research on the trajectory prediction of flying objects and builds a trajectory prediction system based on the trajectory prediction model, combining the constraints of the simple physical motion model and the deviation correction of the double LSTM neural network. Aiming at the problem of trajectory extraction of flying table tennis balls, a high-speed industrial camera was used to build a table tennis trajectory extraction system based on binocular vision. A multicamera information fusion method based on dynamic weights is proposed for the prediction of the trajectory of flying table tennis. In order to solve the problems that some model parameters are difficult to measure and the model is too complicated in the traditional physical motion model of table tennis trajectory, a method combining simple physics is proposed. This paper proposes a trajectory prediction model with motion model constraints and dual LSTM neural network bias correction. Experiments show that the proposed method can greatly improve the accuracy of the trajectory extraction and prediction system and can achieve a certain success rate of hitting.
Application of Wearable Sensors in the Treatment of Cervical Spondylosis Radiculopathy with Acupuncture
Authors: Chi Lei , Zhang Qian
Published: April 2022

Research shows that cervical spondylosis radiculopathy (CSR) is the most common type of cervical spondylosis in clinic, and Chinese medicine treatment has obvious advantages, among which acupuncture therapy has received increasing attention. CSR has the characteristics of high incidence, long treatment time, and easy recurrence after treatment. In order to meet the different needs of different patients, this paper uses wearable sensors to collect patient dynamic data, extracts the action features of cervical spondylosis to design a scoring system, analyzes the input feature scores through a convolutional neural network (CNN) model, and then outputs personalized acupuncture treatment plan. The development status of wearable sensors at home and abroad is introduced, and the modules and functions of the wearable sensors are designed. The CNN network is used as the network model for classification and recognition. The experimental results show that the CNN model used in this paper has a high classification accuracy, achieving an accuracy of up to 97%, and can help produce an effective treatment plan. In order to determine whether the treatment plan output by the model is effective, each group of data is handed over to two cervical spondylosis experts for scoring, and then the final treatment plan is determined from 10 acupuncture plans. In our experiments, 9 out of 10 plans generated by the CNN model were the same as generated by the experts, which shows the effectiveness of the model.
A Rare Case of Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma of the Uterine Cervix
Authors: Bahall Vishal , De Barry Lance , Sankar Steven
Published: April 2022

Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) of the uterine cervix is an exceedingly rare mesenchymal tumor that accounts for less than 1% of all cervical cancers. This highly malignant tumor primarily affects adolescents and young adults. Due to the paucity of publications on this clinical entity, there are no clearly established treatment protocols. However, a multimodal approach to treatment that involves surgical intervention combined with adjuvant chemoradiotherapy appears to improve patient outcomes. Herein, we report a case of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the uterine cervix in a 24-year-old female, who presented with an exophytic cervical mass and vaginal bleeding. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the uterine cervix with extension into the lower uterine segment. This patient was successfully managed with a combination of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, a total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy.
Security Performance Analysis of Relay Networks Based on
κ
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μ
Shadowed Channels with RHIs and CEEs
Authors: Sun Jiangfeng , Wang Xiaohong , Fang Yiwei , Tian Xinji , Zhu Mingfu , Ou Jiangtao , Fan Chengyuan
Published: April 2022

This paper mainly describes the transmission reliability and physical layer security of multiantenna decode-and-forward relay networks over the

κ

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μ

shadowed fading distribution. We consider the existence of residual hardware impairments (RHIs) and channel estimation errors (CEEs) at the same time. Firstly, we give the network model. On this basis, we analyze the reliability and security by deriving the exact expressions of outage probability (OP) and intercept probability (IP). To further verify and investigate the theoretical derivation, the approximate analysis of OP is obtained under the high signal-to-noise ratio. In addition, we also use an optimized antenna selection technology at the transmitter to improve the security performance. Finally, through the comparative study of theoretical simulation and Monte Carlo simulation results, the factors affecting network transmission and security are acquired. The interesting conclusion is that both RHIs and CEEs can increase OP and decrease IP; that is to say, the existence of RHIs and CEEs can reduce reliability and enhance security.
Nonspatial Proximity and Project Team Resilience: The Role of Knowledge Sharing and Team Cohesion
Authors: Wei Meng , Hao Shengyue , Ren Xu
Published: April 2022

Project teams often work in a turbulent and uncertain environment, which tends to bring various dilemmas to them over the projects’ duration. Resilience makes it possible for project teams to minimize, manage, and mend the damage caused by adversities. The research on project team resilience is emerging, but not fully developed. Many inputs of project team resilience including team composition have attracted less or even no attention. We explored the influence of team composition on project team resilience from the perspective of proximity and discussed the role of knowledge sharing and team cohesion in their relationship. An analysis of 256 responses from Chinese construction project teams shows that (a) cognitive proximity has a U‐shaped effect on project team resilience, knowledge sharing, and team cohesion; (b) value and social proximity positively affect project team resilience, knowledge sharing, and team cohesion; (c) knowledge sharing and team cohesion have a positive influence on project team resilience and mediate the relationship between cognitive, value, social proximity, and project team resilience. This study enriches the empirical literature on team resilience, broadens the boundary of project management, team resilience, proximity, and conservation of resources theory, and provides practical suggestions and future direction.
Site Injection Reaction, Maculopapular Rash, and Rosacea Exacerbation after COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Benyamna Younes , Marraha Farah , Al Faker Ibtissam , Chahoub Hanane , Rahmani Najlae , Rkiek Yasmine , Kabbou Soukayna , Soussi Tanani Driss , Gallouj Salim
Published: April 2022

To date, the occurrence of adverse events following immunization after COVID-19 vaccine is rare, and their report is still very poor; however, causality assessment is conducted to identify the associated cause, if they occur. In this case report, we present a case of an association of three cutaneous manifestations (maculopapular exanthem with enanthem, site injection reaction, and rosacea exacerbation) occurring three days after taking the first dose of AstraZeneca AZD1222 vaccine.
Clinical Management of Atypical Endometrial Cells of Undetermined Significance Followed by Negative Cytology
Authors: Nomura Hidetaka , Sugiyama Yuko , Nishino Shogo , Ikki Ai , Murakami Atsushi , Matsumoto Tsuyoshi , Fusegi Atsushi , Omi Makiko , Aoki Yoichi , Abe Akiko , Tanigawa Terumi , Netsu Sachiho , Okamoto Sanshiro , Omatsu Kohei , Yunokawa Mayu , Kanao Hiroyuki
Published: April 2022

Introduction: In Japan, endometrial cytology is widely performed to evaluate the status of the endometrium in women with suspected endometrial cancer. A new classification system for endometrial cytology has recently been used: the Yokohama system, based on a descriptive reporting format. This study aimed to clarify the triage for patients with atypical endometrial cells of undetermined significance (ATEC-US) when followed by negative endometrial cytology. Methods: We enrolled patients diagnosed with ATEC-US at the Cancer Institute Hospital between January 2016 and December 2017, based on the following inclusion criteria: (1) ATEC-US diagnosed by office endometrial cytology, with or without office endometrial biopsy; (2) follow-up endometrial cytology was performed 3–6 months after initial sampling, with a negative result for malignancy; and (3) no prior history of conservative treatment with progestin for endometrial cancer or atypical endometrial hyperplasia (ATEC-A). Among eligible patients, we analyzed those later diagnosed by endometrial biopsy with ATEC-A or carcinoma. Results: Among 187 patients, 65 met the inclusion criteria. Forty-two patients (64.6%) were observed for more than 24 months. Two patients (3.1%) developed ATEC-A during a median observation time of 26.5 months; the times to diagnosis were 32 months and 22 months. Discussion/Conclusion: No patient developed ATEC-A or worse within 1 year. For patients with ATEC-US, if negative cytology is obtained at the next examination, a close follow-up is not necessary.
Niche Regulation of Hematopoiesis: The Environment Is “Micro,” but the Influence Is Large
Authors: Rasheed Adil
Published: April 2022

Immune cell production is governed by a process known as hematopoiesis, where hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) differentiate through progenitor cells and ultimately to the mature blood and immune cells found in circulation. While HSCs are capable of cell-autonomous regulation, they also rely on extrinsic factors to balance their state of quiescence and activation. These cues can, in part, be derived from the niche in which HSCs are found. Under steady-state conditions, HSCs are found in the bone marrow. This niche is designed to support HSCs but also to respond to external factors, which allows hematopoiesis to be a finely tuned and coordinated process. However, the niche, and its regulation, can become dysregulated to potentiate inflammation during disease. This review will highlight the architecture of the bone marrow and key regulators of hematopoiesis within this niche. Emphasis will be placed on how these mechanisms go awry to exacerbate hematopoietic contributions that drive cardiovascular disease.
Atonement and Action Theory
Authors: Woznicki Christopher , Vidu Adonis
Published: April 2022

We argue that a better understanding of the nature of action descriptions can provide a more appropriate framework for relating metaphors and models of atonement than other frameworks that are on offer today. We begin by describing a problem that arises with the framework employed by what we call pluralist and hierarchalist approaches, namely, that the approaches operate with an understanding of metaphors best suited for inanimate objects. On the other hand, action theory—a philosophical subject that has for the most part been ignored by theologians—and more specifically, action descriptions, are better suited to describe the actions of agents. By shifting our attention to action descriptions, we will be able to retain both what pluralists are after—a notion of the multiple perspectives on atonement—and what hierarchalists are after—a nuanced and differentiated way to account for their metaphors and models of atonement.
Improving Opioid Prescribing Post-Discharge for Trauma Patients With Rib Fractures: Factors in Prevention of Prolonged Use and Dependency
Authors: King Sarah A , Harper Christopher , Smith Lou M , Crismon David , Heidel Robert E , Hall Genevieve , Beam Zachary , Daley Brian J
Published: April 2022

Background

Rib fracture (RF) pain management provides analgesia while reducing opioids. We postulated: (1) Prescriber factors affect opiate duration, and (2) lidocaine infusion curtails dependency.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective study of RF patients undergoing multimodal analgesia at ACS-verified Level 1 Trauma Center April 2018-February 2020. Exclusions: age<18 y/o, GCS < 14, hospital length of stay (LOS) <3 d, <3 RF, ventilator support, injury-related mortality, disclosed/discoverable, acute/chronic opiate Rx within 90 days preadmission, substance abuse, patient inaccessible via Controlled Substance Monitoring Database (CSMD), and/or not using opioids in-/post-hospitalization. CSMD queried regarding opioid prescriptions filled by cohort. Cohort variable analysis performed on SPSS Version 27sf (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp).

Results

153 patients included – 113 (74%) stopped opiates by 30 days post-discharge (NORx30), 40 (26%) continued beyond 30 days (Rx+). No significant differences in age, gender, ISS, number of RF, bilaterality, flail chest, and discharge disposition. Significant differences included hospital LOS (7.62 NORx30 vs. 10.22 Rx+, p = .02), number of prescribers (1.73 NORx30 vs. 2.98 Rx+, p < .01), average MME/day during initial 30 days post-discharge (36.7 ± 17 NORx30 vs. 45.4 ± 30.2 Rx+, p = .03), and number of pills (49 ± 38 NORx30 vs. 120 ± 85 Rx+, p < .01). Patients who received lidocaine infusion (LIDO+) had lower MME/day prescribed (32.24 ± 19.9, p = .03), were younger (61.2 vs. 65.6, p < .01), had more RFs (7.1 vs. 6.05, p = .03), and shorter LOS (7.71 vs 10.2, p = .01).

Discussion

Prescriber attention to MME/day and number of pills dispensed affects opioid dependency. We recommend 35–40 MME/day with 50 pill/month limit prescribed by a single provider monitoring patient and CSMD. Early LI offers post-discharge opioid cessation advantage.
Effects of a Short Video Physical Activity Program on Physical Fitness Among Physical Education Students
Authors: Bulca Yeşim , Bilgin Emre , Altay Figen , Demirhan Gıyasettin
Published: April 2022

The Brain Break (BB) short video program is designed to improve physical activity (PA), motor skills, and fitness in children. In this study, we examined the effects of an 8-week short video-based Brain Break (HOPSports Company) PA program within physical education (PE) lessons on fitness and fitness knowledge among students. We studied 62 fifth-grade students (experimental group = 28; control group = 34) in the Ankara, Turkey school district. The experimental group received PE lessons once per week for eight weeks with the BB PA program, with extra videos viewed at home three days per week, while the control group received routine PE lessons during this period. We collected student responses to the Fitness Knowledge Test for Children and the Fitnessgram Test Battery before and after the experimental BB program. Results revealed that the experimental group showed increased fitness and fitness knowledge compared to the control group, showing that the BB PA videos can increase fitness and fitness knowledge in students.
Does Convenience Come with a Price? The Impact of Remote Testimony on Perceptions of Expert Credibility
Authors: Jones Ashley C. T. , Batastini Ashley B. , Patel Meera B. , Sacco Donald F. , Warlick Craig A.
Published: April 2022

The purpose of the present study was to experimentally examine whether testimony modality leads to differences in perceptions of expert witnesses and their opinions. We hypothesized that simulated testimony delivered via phone would be perceived as less credible, efficacious, and assigned less weight than testimony delivered via videoconference or in-court. We recruited a sample of 275 U.S. men and women via Amazon Mechanical Turk. After viewing a videotaped mock court scenario depicting testimony by a forensic psychological expert witness, participants completed measures of expert credibility, efficacy, and expert social presence. A simple contrast multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) revealed perceptions did not differ between in-court, videoconferencing, and phone testimony conditions. Higher social presence scores predicted more favorable perceptions of the expert. These findings provide clearer support for the continued implementation of remote videoconference testimony in courts. We offer recommendations on how to optimize the use of remote testimony based on the present study and previous findings.
Computerized Adaptive Testing for Ipsative Tests with Multidimensional Pairwise-Comparison Items: Algorithm Development and Applications
Authors: Qiu Xue-Lan , de la Torre Jimmy , Ro Sage , Wang Wen-Chung
Published: April 2022

A computerized adaptive testing (CAT) solution for tests with multidimensional pairwise-comparison (MPC) items, aiming to measure career interest, value, and personality, is rare. This paper proposes new item selection and exposure control methods for CAT with dichotomous and polytomous MPC items and present simulation study results. The results show that the procedures are effective in selecting items and controlling within-person statement exposure with no loss of efficiency. Implications are discussed in two applications of the proposed CAT procedures: a work attitude test with dichotomous MPC items and a career interest assessment with polytomous MPC items.
Freedom of speech in liberal and non-liberal traditions
Authors: Kaul Volker
Published: April 2022

The article presents different theories and comparative analyses of freedom of speech in both liberal and non-liberal traditions. Whereas freedom of speech is not an absolute right, the question is if this right should depend wholly on the truth of the respective opinion or statement. Theories that justify free speech on the grounds of autonomy, tend to make truth a moral requirement of speech. Theories based on civility and public reason do restrict freedom of speech even further, often making a form of recognition a precondition of free speech. This reveals to be particularly relevant in multicultural contexts and discussions about blasphemy. From this overview of contemporary, global comparative debates on free speech, the article draws some conclusions. First, there should be the absolute primacy of free speech regarding governments and the powerful: Speak truth to power. Second, free speech should underlie no constraints where important individual rights are at stake. Third, academic freedom has a special status and should not be subject to the same limits as freedom of expression more generally. Forth, in civil society and the public sphere a more moderate approach to free speech should be adopted based on civility, public reason and recognition. Yet, any limits should be of moral and not legal nature.
The US rate of profit 1964–2017 and the turnover of fixed and circulating capital
Authors: Jefferies William
Published: April 2022

This article addresses how Marxist economists have estimated the quantity of fixed and circulating capital advanced in the denominator of the rate of profit calculation. Generally, Marxist economists have used neoclassical fixed capital estimates of opportunity cost, as applied most notably, in the US system of national accounts. These Hulten and Wyckoff measures aggregate the lifetime revenues (both costs and profits) of fixed assets and so grossly over estimate the value of the fixed capital stock. This article applies the Internal Revenue Service Depreciable Assets less Depreciation for a more accurate estimate of the actual quantity of fixed capital advanced. Furthermore, it criticises the absence of a convincing measure of the rate of turnover of Marx’s circuit of capital accumulation M . . . C . . . P . . . C’ . . . M’ in most rate of profit estimates. Developing the work of Bertrand and Fauqueur, this article demonstrates that the cash conversion cycle or net operating cycle mirrors Marx’s circuit. This article applies the cash conversion cycle to Internal Revenue Service Total Corporations data 1964–2017 to estimate the rate of turnover. The article addresses the distinction between unproductive and productive output and develops an estimation of those respective quantities based on Internal Revenue Service data. It combines these elements together to estimate the US rate of profit from 1964 to 2017. It finds that the US rate of profit rose strongly, albeit with dramatic fluctuations, after 2001.
Parent and Teacher Assessments of Social-Emotional Competence in Three-Year-Old Children: Does Sibling Status Matter?
Authors: Schönmoser Carina , Karwath Claudia , Gnambs Timo
Published: April 2022

Valid information on early social-emotional competence is essential to diagnose, treat, and prevent behavioral problems in children and adolescents. Particularly in young children, social-emotional competence is frequently measured using parent and teacher ratings that frequently exhibit low agreement. Therefore, the present study on n = 532 three-year-olds (47% girls) examined whether sibling status might explain discrepancies between the two informant groups. First, multi-trait multi-informant analyses explored the construct validity of a short measure of three facets of social-emotional competence. Then, group comparisons evaluated the size of the observed method effects for only children and children with siblings. Results showed low convergent validity between parent and teacher ratings for aggressive behavior, cooperative behavior, and emotional self-regulation. Sibling status in the family contributed little to the observed discrepancies between parents and teachers. Thus, a comprehensive assessment of social-emotional competence in children requires a multi-informant approach to capture the construct breadth.
Food and Nutrition Education Using Intuitive Method and NOVA Food Classification: Implications for Food Practices of Children and Adolescents Intuitive Method in Food and Nutrition Education
Authors: Inácio Monique Louise Cassimiro , Pereira Fernanda Costa , Fernandes Lidiane Batista , Oliveira Izabela Regina Cardoso de , Pereira Rafaela Corrêa , de Angelis-Pereira Michel Cardoso
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the impact of food and nutrition education interventions based on the intuitive method (IM) proposed by Johaan Henrich Pestalozzi (1746–1827) at different time periods on the food practices of children and adolescents.

Design

This was a prospective comparative intervention program assessed by a pre–post survey at shorter term (3 months) and longer term (6 months).

Setting

Two institutions that provide extracurricular social support for children and adolescents with social and economic vulnerabilities in the city of Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The shorter-term intervention was conducted in Institution A and the longer term one conducted in Institution B.

Subjects

The sample consisted of 245 students aged between 5 and 14 years who attended the institutions. For each institution, they were divided into two groups (control and IM).

Intervention

We compared the effectiveness of the interventions performed by the IM or by expository actions (control) in both institutions. Interventions were focused on the guidelines of the Food Guide for the Brazilian Population and dealt with food choices, meal preparation, commensality, and obstacles to healthy eating.

Measures

The assessed outcomes were food consumption according to NOVA food classification, cooking self-efficacy, and knowledge about food and nutrition.

Analysis

Paired t-tests were used to compare food consumption before and after interventions. Adjusted logistic regression models were used to analyze the outcomes on food and nutrition knowledge and cooking self-efficacy.

Results

Subjects receiving IM interventions decreased mean intake of ultra-processed food (3.56 to 1.50 portions; P< .001) and had greater odds of increasing self-efficacy with cooking (OR = 2,33–4,17). Both methods were effective regarding teaching about food and nutrition. Intervention period did not homogeneously impact these outcomes.

Conclusions

The use of food and nutrition education interventions presented positive outcomes on the food practices of the participants. The IM is an alternative method to educate children and adolescents about healthy eating practices.
A review of mode I dominant interfacial fracture toughness test methods of skin-core bonding for thermoplastic composite sandwich structures
Authors: Weidmann Felix , Ziegmann Gerhard , Wieser Jürgen
Published: April 2022

Increased lightweight design via composite sandwich structures is a promising approach due to their exceptionally high weight-specific mechanical properties. The involved high cost when using sandwich composite structures has hindered applications in cost-sensitive markets up to now. However, full thermoplastic composite sandwich structures enable a cost reduction using novel processing routes based on fusion bonding of core and facesheet. In order to optimize such full thermoplastic composite sandwich structures and to ensure proper bonding of facesheet and core after manufacture, valid test methods for the quantification of skin-core interfacial bonding are required. This paper reviews existing test methods for the determination of Mode I dominant interfacial fracture toughness of sandwich structures. The main focus is set on cantilever beam tests as well as on peel tests. Based on a definition of requirements for suitable test methods, their applicability for full thermoplastic composite sandwich structures is evaluated. The Mandrel Peel Test results as most promising test method for thermoplastic sandwich structures, especially with thin facesheets.
Institutions, Occupations and Connectivity: The Embeddedness of Gig Work and Platform-Mediated Labour Market in Hong Kong
Authors: Au-Yeung Tat Chor , Qiu Jack
Published: April 2022

Informed by the economic sociology of work, this qualitative study employs a dynamic and multi-dimensional notion of embeddedness to critique the social bases of gig work and the platform-mediated labour market, with a series of embedding, disembedding and re-embedding forces. Conducting in-depth interviews with 24 gig workers, the findings reveal how gig work is incorporated into Hong Kong’s labour market and the ways in which gig work is reshaping the power of workers via digital platforms. First, gig work is institutionally embedded in a policy framework centred on weak regulation and protection, resulting in platforms’ expandable and retractable control over labour. Second, gig work is embedded in occupational norms and professional practices, in which workers practise multi-platforming and marketplace resistance when defending their interests. Finally, the embedded connectivity of gig work boosts the scalability of labour market competition but engenders algorithmic opacity. The marketplace bargaining power of gig workers is twofold: workers’ dependence on platforms and their working status. Hence, the embeddedness of gig work and platforms is far from stable but involves new tensions that challenge the gigification and platformisation of work.
Simulation-Based Training to Improve Clinical Pharmacist Self-Efficacy in the Management of a Rapidly Decompensating Patient
Authors: Salimnejad Shane , Schultheis Jennifer M. , Wolcott Michael D. , Mando-Vandrick Jennifer D. , Yang Siyun , Lee Hui-Jie , Kram Bridgette L.
Published: April 2022

Background: The optimal training method to prepare pharmacists as an integral rapid response team or cardiopulmonary arrest responders is poorly described. This study assessed the utility of simulation-based training (SBT) as a training technique for clinical pharmacists. Objective: This study aimed to determine if attending SBT is associated with an improvement in self-efficacy. Methods: This single-center, prospective, interventional cohort study offered three simulations to clinical pharmacists over the course of seven months at a 957-bed quaternary care academic medical center. Pharmacists who participated in at least one simulation were categorized in the intervention group and were compared to pharmacists who did not attend a simulation. All participants were asked to complete a 19-question self-efficacy survey in the form of a 100-point scale, a 15-question multiple-choice knowledge assessment, and a perception survey in the form of 4-point Likert scale administered at baseline and following the conclusion of the SBT. Results: Forty-four clinical pharmacists participated; 20 in the intervention group and 24 in the control group. Median change in self-efficacy score improved significantly in the intervention group compared to the control group (14.3 vs 2.3, P = .009). Median change in perception score improved significantly (2 vs 0, P = .046). Knowledge score did not change significantly from baseline. Conclusion: Simulation-based training improved clinical pharmacist self-efficacy and perceptions in the care of rapidly decompensating patients. These findings support SBT as a viable modality of training clinical pharmacists for the management of rapidly decompensating patients.
The Relationship Between Financial Decision-Making and Financial Exploitation in Older Black Adults
Authors: Hall LaToya , Moray Juno , Gross Evan , Lichtenberg Peter A
Published: April 2022

Objectives: This study examined the relationship between contextual measure of financial decision-making and the financial exploitation experiences of older Blacks, and the convergent validity of mental health measures of contextual decision-making items. Methods: This cross-sectional study of 104 older Black adults included 52 cases of confirmed financial exploitation. Participants were matched on age and gender. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to examine these relationships. Results: The contextual measure of financial decision-making was significantly associated with financial exploitation, above and beyond the relationship of demographic measures. Further, there was strong evidence for convergent validity between the contextual measure and mental health measures. Discussion: Results underscore the significant relationship of the contextual factors involved in financial decision-making and financial exploitation. This study provides a conceptually driven approach to understanding the experiences of older Black adult victims of financial exploitation.
Racial and Ethnic Differences in Major and Everyday Discrimination Among Older Adults: African Americans, Black Caribbeans, and Non-Latino Whites
Authors: Sylvers Dominque , Taylor Robert Joseph , Barnes Lisa , Ifatunji Mosi Adesina , Chatters Linda M.
Published: April 2022

Objectives

This study examined differences in major and everyday discrimination between African Americans, Black Caribbeans, and non-Latino White older adults.

Methods

Data are taken from the National Survey of American Life. Measures of major (e.g., unfairly fired and harassed by police) and everyday (e.g., treated with less courtesy, insulted, and followed in stores) discrimination were examined.

Results

Both African Americans and Black Caribbeans reported more major and everyday discrimination than non-Latino Whites. However, there were no significant differences between African Americans and Whites with regards to being fired, neighbors making life difficult and receiving poor service. There were no significant differences between African Americans and Black Caribbeans in major or everyday discrimination.

Discussion

The discussion notes the importance of examining racial as well as within group ethnic differences within the Black American population in the types of discrimination. It also notes the importance of examining indicators of both major and everyday discrimination.
Quality of Life of Retired Pensioners in Madurai District
Authors: Charles S. , Arockiam K.
Published: April 2022

The employees working in the government sector retire from the service once they cross the age of superannuation and generally remain as the elderly population in society with the privilege of availing benefits of social security such as provident fund, gratuity and pension. There is a tendency among the people in our society that economic privileges of the retired elderly community enjoy better social support, enhanced psychological wellbeing and greater quality of life rather than a common elder who is not a retired pensioner from government service. Many studies have been conducted among the elderly population but very few among retired pensioners. Apart from the economic privileges, the retired pensioners also remain as generic elders. This study attempts to examine the possible relationships between social support, psychological well-being and the quality of life of pensioners. The study included 150 retired pensioners from a pensioner’s association in Madurai by using descriptive research design and self-structured tool. The results reveal that there exists a strong positive relationship among social support, psychological well-being and quality of life of retired pensioners. The developed model, which examined the relationship and influence among perceived social support, psychological well-being and quality of life, resulted in a good fit model. The study also disproves the notion that economic variables such as a monthly pension, employment engagement activities after retirement and secondary income sources apart from the pension are not the contributing factors of quality of life of the retired pensioner.
Oral Oseltamivir in Human Experimental Influenza B Infection
Authors: Hayden Frederick G , Jennings Lance , Robson Richard , Schiff Gilbert , Jackson Helen , Rana Brinderjeet , McClelland Graham , Ipe David , Roberts Noel , Ward Penelope
Published: April 2022

Oseltamivir is the prodrug of Ro64-0802 (GS4071), a potent and selective inhibitor of influenza A and B virus neuraminidases. Three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group studies evaluated oral oseltamivir for early treatment (75 or 150 mg twice daily for 5 days) or prevention (75 mg once or twice daily for 7 days) of experimental influenza B virus infection in healthy susceptible adults. Treatment study A ( n=60) demonstrated similar trends to treatment study B ( n=117), in which 75 mg doses of oseltamivir introduced 24 h after inoculation reduced median area under curve (AUC) virus titre (oseltamivir, 22.7; placebo, 131.1 log10 TCID50 x h/ml; P=0.002) and duration of viral shedding (oseltamivir, 23.9 h; placebo, 95.8 h; P=0.0005). In prevention study C ( n=58), oseltamivir did not reduce infection rates (85 versus 84%) but significantly reduced median AUC virus titre (10.0 versus 66.9 log10 TCID50 x h/ml; P=0.03) and duration of viral shedding (36 versus 84 h; P=0.03) compared with placebo. Oseltamivir was well tolerated. No emergence of drug-resistant variants was detected by testing last-day isolates ( n=112) in neuraminidase inhibition assays. These results indicate that oseltamivir has significant antiviral activity in experimental human influenza B virus infection when used for prophylaxis or early treatment.
Amprenavir in Combination with Lamivudine and Zidovudine versus Lamivudine and Zidovudine Alone in HIV-1-Infected Antiretroviral-Naive Adults
Authors: Goodgame Jeffery C , Pottage John C , Jablonowski Helmut , Hardy W David , Stein Allan , Fischl Margaret , Morrow Patrick , Feinberg Judith , Brothers Cynthia Hanson , Vafidis Imogen , Nacci Pantaleo , Yeo Jane , Pedneault Louise ,   for the Amprenavir PROAB3001 International Study Team
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To compare the antiviral activity and safety of a new protease inhibitor, amprenavir (141W94) in combination with lamivudine and zidovudine, versus lamivudine and zidovudine alone in HIV-1 infected, antiretroviral-naive subjects.

Design

Subjects ( n=232) with a CD4 T cell count of ≥200 cells/mm3, plasma HIV-1 RNA levels of ≥10000 copies/ml, and ≤4 weeks of prior nucleoside antiretroviral therapy, were stratified according to baseline plasma HIV-1 RNA level (10000–30000; 30000–100000; or >100000 copies/ml). Subjects received double-blind treatment with either 1200 mg amprenavir twice daily in combination with lamivudine (150 mg twice daily) and zidovudine (300 mg twice daily) (amprenavir/lamivudine/zidovudine) or matched placebo, lamivudine and zidovudine for 16 weeks. Thereafter, subjects with confirmed plasma HIV-1 RNA levels of ≥400 copies/ml could add open-label amprenavir or switch to other antiretrovirals and continue treatment for up to a minimum of 48 weeks. The primary endpoint of the study was defined as the proportion of subjects with plasma HIV-1 RNA of <400 copies/ml at 48 weeks.

Results

At 48 weeks, a significantly greater proportion of amprenavir/lamivudine/zidovudine subjects had plasma HIV-1 RNA levels <400 copies/ml than lamivudine/ zidovudine subjects in the overall population: 41 versus 3% (intent-to-treat missing equals failure analysis) ( P<0.001); 93 versus 42% (as-treated analysis) ( P<0.001); and within each of the three randomization strata ( P<0.001). Subjects on amprenavir/lamivudine/ zidovudine experienced longer time to event (permanent discontinuation of randomized therapy or viral rebound) than those on lamivudine/ zidovudine (median of 33 versus 13 weeks; P<0.001). A significantly greater incidence of drug-related nausea, vomiting, rash and oral/perioral paresthesia was observed with amprenavir/lamivudine/zidovudine than with lamivudine/zidovudine.

Conclusions

Amprenavir, in combination with lamivudine and zidovudine, has potent and durable antiviral activity in antiretroviral-naive subjects over 48 weeks. Amprenavir was safe and generally well tolerated.
Virological Response in Multidrug-Experienced HIV-1-Infected Subjects Failing Highly Active Combination Regimens after Shifting from Lamivudine to Didanosine
Authors: Rusconi Stefano , La Seta Catamancio Simona , Citterio Paola , Bulgheroni Elisabetta , Kurtagic Semir , Galazzi Morena , Croce Francesco , Moroni Mauro , Galli Massimo
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study (the RESCUE trial) was to verify the effect of a shift from a lamivudine-containing to a didanosine-containing regimen on viral replication in HIV-1-infected subjects who had experienced prior treatment failure. Sixteen patients (didanosine-experienced in 14/16 cases) were consecutively enrolled: eight patients shifted from lamivudine to didanosine without other changes in their drug regimen. The other eight shifted from lamivudine to didanosine and changed one or more of their other drugs according to their physician's judgement. At the time of the regimen shift, all the subjects exhibited a high-level phenotypic resistance to both zidovudine and lamivudine with changes at codons 70–219 in 100% of cases, at codon 215 in 13 of 16 patients, and the M184V substitution in 13/16 patients. Phenotypic susceptibility to didanosine was maintained in the majority of cases (14/16) despite the high prevalence of changes at codon 184. A statistically significant decrease in viral load ( P<0.005) without a significant increase in CD4 lymphocytes ( P=0.514) was observed after 3 and 6 months from the introduction of the didanosine-containing regimen. These findings suggest the possibility of achieving a viral load response to didanosine-containing regimens in patients with reverse transcriptase (RT) M184V mutations who were previously treated with this drug and its possible use in salvage combinations.
The Emergence and Epidemiology of Resistance in the Nucleoside-Experienced HIV-Infected Population
Authors: Pillay Deenan
Published: April 2022

HIV drug resistance remains one of the most important influences on long-term therapeutic prospects. Resistance and therapeutic failure arises out of the selection and preservation of randomly generated genomic mutations that confer a replicative advantage in the presence of one or more antiretrovirals. The primary correlate to the time to emergence of a drug-resistant HIV variant is the extent of residual replication under selecting drug pressure, emphasizing the importance of full virological suppression to long-term therapy. Further contributions to the time to emergence are the degree of selective pressure exerted by a given drug, whereby greater potency forces earlier selection of mutant strains in balance with the extent of residual replication, and the degree of reduced drug susceptibility afforded by a particular mutation. Once evolved, drug-resistant strains can persist indefinitely as minority viral populations or archived genomes in latently infected CD4 cells, despite long-term withdrawal of the selecting drugs, to re-emerge rapidly on rechallenge with those or any cross-resistant drug. Variable adherence to medication in the routine clinical setting has given rise to resistance mutations being observed in some 50–60% of those with detectable viral loads on therapy in countries where anti-retroviral therapy has been widely available. Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-associated mutations form the majority of these, and the long and almost universal use of zidovudine and stavudine has led to mutations selected by these drugs being the most common observed, along with the primary lamivudine resistance mutation M184V. Transmission of drug-resistant HIV in cases of new infection has also been widely studied, and although the extent is considerably lower than that in the treated population (typically 4–10% outside certain geographic areas), early data suggest that it is rising over time as the infected source population becomes more therapy-experienced. Once again, mutations from zidovudine or, to a lesser extent, stavudine exposure form the majority of mutations observed in cases of primary transmission. These data are a cause for concern, and imply that, as things stand, the use of a drug resistance test may become as important to the design of an effective first-line highly active antiretroviral therapy regimen as they have become for selecting new drugs on therapeutic failure.
Genotypic Correlates of Resistance to HIV-1 Protease Inhibitors on Longitudinal Data: The Role of Secondary Mutations
Authors: Servais Jean , Plesséria Jean-Marc , Lambert Christine , Fontaine Elodie , Robert Isabelle , Arendt Vic , Staub Thérèse , Schneider François , Hemmer Robert , Schmit Jean-Claude
Published: April 2022

Direct sequencing of the pol gene was assessed retrospectively with protease inhibitor susceptibility in a longitudinal study. A total of 134 samples from 26 patients were analysed at regular intervals up to 2 years. Patients were included in virological failure despite indinavir, ritonavir or saquinavir based triple-drug therapy. Both the type and number of certain secondary protease mutations modulated the effect of primary mutations on phenotypic resistance. This was notably applicable to L10I/V, and to lesser extents to A71V/T. However, combinations of primary mutations, including I54V could predict resistance to the drug used and nelfinavir in more than 80%. In contrast, in vitro cross-resistance to amprenavir was rarely encountered. In addition, there was a relationship between a higher number of key mutations and poorer virological and clinical outcomes, respectively, from 6 and 3 months on. The key mutations were the protease mutations independently conferring phenotypic resistance and/or the reverse transcriptase mutations predicting treatment outcome. This relationship was independent from drug history, viral load and CD4 cell count measurements. In summary, even on a small sample size, sequence-based genotyping seems to be a good prognostic marker when performed longitudinally. In the context of primary resistance mutations, including additional secondary mutations, it may be useful in the prediction of phenotypic and clinical resistance. This should be assessed to optimize treatment monitoring before emergence of broadly cross-resistant virus.
Prevalence and Response to Antiretroviral Therapy of Non-B Subtypes of HIV in Antiretroviral-Naive Individuals in British Columbia
Authors: Alexander Christopher S , Montessori Valentina , Wynhoven Brian , Dong Winnie , Chan Keith , O'Shaughnessy Michael V , Mo Theresa , Piaseczny Magda , Montaner Julio SG , Harrigan P Richard
Published: April 2022

In North America, the B subtype of the major group (M) of HIV-1 predominates. Phylogenetic analysis of HIV reverse transcriptase and protease sequences isolated from 479 therapy-naive patients, first seeking treatment in British Columbia between June 1997 and August 1998, revealed a prevalence of 4.4% non-B virus. A range of different subtypes was identified, including one subtype A, 11 C, two D, five CRF01_AE, and one sample that could not be reliably subtyped. Baseline CD4 counts were significantly lower in individuals harbouring the non-B subtypes ( P=0.02), but baseline viral loads were similar ( P=0.80). In this study, individuals infected with non-B variants did not have a significantly different virological response to therapy after up to 18 months.
Oral Pleconaril Treatment of Picornavirus-Associated Viral Respiratory Illness in Adults: Efficacy and Tolerability in Phase II Clinical Trials
Authors: Hayden Frederick G , Coats Teresa , Kim Kenneth , Hassman Howard A , Blatter Mark M , Zhang Bing , Liu Siyu
Published: April 2022

We evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of oral pleconaril, an anti-picornavirus agent, in treating acute viral respiratory illness (VRI) in two double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. Otherwise healthy subjects, 14 years of age or older, who presented within 36 h of VRI symptom onset, were randomized to pleconaril 400 mg or matching placebo in liquid (first trial) or tablet (second trial) formulations twice-daily (first trial only) or three-times daily for 7 days. The infected subjects from the corresponding active and placebo groups (three-times daily dosing regimens) were combined for analysis. Among the subset of subjects with proven picornaviral infection in both studies (42% of total enrolled), pleconaril 400 mg three-times daily ( n=323) reduced the time to alleviation of illness (no rhinorrhoea and other symptoms mild or absent for ≥48 h) compared with placebo ( n=264) (median: 10.0 days for placebo and 8.5 days for pleconaril; P=0.029). In addition, pleconaril reduced the time to a ≥50% reduction from baseline in total symptom severity score (median: 4.5 days for placebo and 3.5 days for pleconaril; P=0.038). Significant reductions in the number of tissues used for nose-blowing (20% reduction) and in nights of disturbed sleep (16% reduction) were also observed. Pleconaril was generally well tolerated; the liquid formulation caused gastrointestinal disturbance in all groups (diarrhoea 10–14%, nausea 5–9%, abdominal discomfort 6–8%), and tablets were associated with a greater incidence of nausea (3% for placebo versus 7% for pleconaril, P=0.003). Pleconaril 400 mg administered three-times daily reduced the duration and severity of picornaviral VRI in adolescents and adults.