bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Black lives matter, police violence, and the Kenosha murders: Materializing race in “Law-and-Order” assemblages
Authors: Avery-Natale Edward , Vila Pablo
Published: April 2022

We use the 2020 incident of the police shooting of Jacob Blake followed by Black Lives Matter protests and the subsequent murder of several activists by Kyle Rittenhouse as a case study to update the Althusserian theory of interpellation using Deleuzian concepts and the idea of “identitarian articulations.” Specifically, we aim to think more about the capacity to accept or reject an interpellation, and who has those capacities, and why. Here, the “who” above is not the individual ontological subject, but the immanent Deleuzian subject emerging in articulation. We will show, for example, that subordinated subjects will often have less access to the capacity to resist interpellation. This is, in part, because it is difficult for some people to “add” or “subtract” identifications or capacities from their identitarian articulations because of the overdetermining power of hegemonic discourses, such as white supremacy. We will also show that different objects, technologies, and emotions when affecting an identitarian articulation, actualize different capacities, or different intensities of the same capacity, in a given encounter. Most importantly, for the purposes of this article, will be the capacity to manifest an emotion like “fear” or “threatened.” We show that an object like a gun may not appear threatening in particular encounters and in association with certain identitarian articulations even while another object, such as a cell phone, will be imbued with the capacity to induce “fear” or “threat” in another. As we show, unavoidably, in the United States, these capacities are deeply entangled with the racialization of the subject holding the object.
Incidence of Procedure-Related Complications in Patients Treated With Atherectomy in the Femoropopliteal and Tibial Vessels in the Vascular Quality Initiative
Authors: Sanon Omar , Carnevale Matthew , Indes Jeffrey , Gao Qi , Lipsitz Evan , Koleilat Issam
Published: April 2022

Purpose:

To compare procedural complications in patients undergoing atherectomy plus angioplasty (A+A) and plain balloon angioplasty (POBA).

Materials and Methods:

Patients in the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) registry undergoing first-time peripheral vascular intervention (PVI) were included. Those undergoing aortoiliac or pedal interventions, primary stenting, or hybrid procedures were excluded. Patients were stratified by lesion location (femoropopliteal [FP] or tibial [TIB]). The primary outcomes were target vessel dissection, distal embolization, and provisional stent placement. Secondary outcomes included postoperative complications and the need for subsequent interventions.

Results:

12 499 patients undergoing FP (49.6% A+A) and 6736 patients undergoing TIB (17.0% A+A) interventions were identified. In the FP group, A+A was associated with greater intraoperative target vessel dissection (4.5% vs 2.6%, p<0.001), distal embolization (1.5% vs 0.7%, p =0.001), and provisional stent placement (1.5% vs 0%, p<0.001); and greater postoperative target vessel dissection (4.2% vs 2.0%, p<0.001) and distal embolization (0.9% vs 0.4%, p=0.034). In the TIB group, A+A was associated with fewer intraoperative vessel dissection (0.8% vs 2.3%, p=0.011) but greater provisional stent placement (0.3% vs 0%, p<0.001). TIB A+A was also associated with higher rates of technical success (97.6% vs 95.1%, p<0.001).

Conclusions:

Atherectomy was associated with increased procedural-related complications in femoropopliteal, but not in tibial vessels. Future studies addressing lesion morphology, device design, and technique may help define its role in peripheral vascular interventions.
Occupational Therapy Interventions for Poststroke Fatigue: A Scoping Review
Authors: Smetheram Tatyana , Amiama Maria Emilia , Hébert Debbie , Law Geoff , Dawson Deirdre R.
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

Fatigue after stroke can negatively affect the survivors’ well-being. Despite the high prevalence and consequences of poststroke fatigue (PSF), there is no specific guidance for occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) to address this symptom.

Objectives:

The objectives of the study were to identify and describe the research on potential occupational therapy (OT) interventions for PSF.

Method:

Three databases were searched using scoping review methodology. Two authors completed a title and abstract and full-text review. Study characteristics, participant characteristics, qualities of interventions, and outcome measures were extracted and synthesized.

Results:

Eight studies met selection criteria. Studies were conducted with stroke and traumatic brain injury patients in outpatient, inpatient, and community settings. Interventions included psychoeducation and behavior change, multicomponent programs, and mindfulness-based stress reduction therapies. The Fatigue Severity Scale and the Mental Fatigue Scale were commonly used.

Conclusion:

Evidence for OT interventions targeting PSF is limited. Recommendations for future research are provided.
Neural plasticity of the uterus: New targets for endometrial cancer?
Authors: Español Pia , Luna Rocio , Soler Cristina , Caruana Pablo , Altés-Arranz Amanda , Rodríguez Francisco , Porta Oriol , Sanchez Olga , Llurba Elisa , Rovira Ramón , Céspedes María Virtudes
Published: April 2022

Endometrial carcinoma is the most common gynecological malignancy in Western countries and is expected to increase in the following years because of the high index of obesity in the population. Recently, neural signaling has been recognized as part of the tumor microenvironment, playing an active role in tumor progression and invasion of different solid tumor types. The uterus stands out for the physiological plasticity of its peripheral nerves due to cyclic remodeling brought on by estrogen and progesterone hormones throughout the reproductive cycle. Therefore, a precise understanding of nerve-cancer crosstalk and the contribution of the organ-intrinsic neuroplasticity, mediated by estrogen and progesterone, of the uterine is urgently needed. The development of new and innovative medicines for patients with endometrial cancer would increase their quality of life and health. This review compiles information on the architecture and function of autonomous uterine neural innervations and the influence of hormone-dependent nerves in normal uterus and tumor progression. It also explores new therapeutic possibilities for endometrial cancer using these endocrine and neural advantages.
Obesity negatively affects outcomes following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair at four-year follow-up
Authors: Parnes Nata , Scanaliato John P , Dunn John C , Fink Walter A , Sandler Alexis , Fares Austin B
Published: April 2022

Introduction

The purpose is to evaluate the influence of obesity (BMI 30 to 39.9 kg/m 2 ) on surgical outcomes following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective review was performed examining the outcomes of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in both a normal weight (BMI 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2) and an obese (BMI 30 to 39.9 kg/m2) patient population, specifically looking at functional outcomes and range of motion. Secondary variables analyzed were surgical time, complications, and medical comorbidities.

Results

52 normal weight patients (mean BMI 23.7 ± 2.1) and 59 obese patients (mean BMI 34.0 ± 2.4) were included. Both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements in VAS, SANE and ASES scores (P < 0.0001), however there were significantly better outcomes in the normal weight group in VAS (0.56 ± 0.96 vs 1.42 ± 2.22; P = 0.0108), ASES (96.1 ± 5.8 vs 90.6 ± 15.6; P = 0.0192), and internal rotation (9.2 ± 3.0 vs 10.9 ± 2.3; P = 0.0010). Additionally, the obese cohort had more complications, longer surgical times, and a greater comorbid background.

Conclusions

Obesity is associated with significantly more comorbid conditions, surgical complications, longer surgical time, and worse patient reported outcomes than normal weight patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.
Long-Term Prediction of Blood Glucose Levels in Type 1 Diabetes Using a CNN-LSTM-Based Deep Neural Network
Authors: Jaloli Mehrad , Cescon Marzia
Published: April 2022

Background:

In this work, we leverage state-of-the-art deep learning–based algorithms for blood glucose (BG) forecasting in people with type 1 diabetes.

Methods:

We propose stacks of convolutional neural network and long short-term memory units to predict BG level for 30-, 60-, and 90-minute prediction horizon (PH), given historical glucose measurements, meal information, and insulin intakes. The evaluation was performed on two data sets, Replace-BG and DIAdvisor, representative of free-living conditions and in-hospital setting, respectively.

Results:

For 90-minute PH, our model obtained mean absolute error of 17.30 ± 2.07 and 18.23 ± 2.97 mg/dL, root mean square error of 23.45 ± 3.18 and 25.12 ± 4.65 mg/dL, coefficient of determination of 84.13 ± 4.22% and 82.34 ± 4.54%, and in terms of the continuous glucose-error grid analysis 94.71 ± 3.89% and 91.71 ± 4.32% accurate predictions, 1.81 ± 1.06% and 2.51 ± 0.86% benign errors, and 3.47 ± 1.12% and 5.78 ± 1.72% erroneous predictions, for Replace-BG and DIAdvisor data sets, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our investigation demonstrated that our method achieved superior glucose forecasting compared with existing approaches in the literature, and thanks to its generalizability showed potential for real-life applications.
Decellularization of tumours: A new frontier in tissue engineering
Authors: García-Gareta Elena , Pérez María Ángeles , García-Aznar José Manuel
Published: April 2022

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The tumour extracellular matrix (ECM) has unique features in terms of composition and mechanical properties, resulting in a structurally and chemically different ECM to that of native, healthy tissues. This paper reviews to date the efforts into decellularization of tumours, which in the authors’ view represents a new frontier in the ever evolving field of tumour tissue engineering. An overview of the ECM and its importance in cancer is given, ending with examples of research using decellularized tumours, which has already indicated potential therapeutic targets, unravelled malignancy mechanisms or response to chemotherapy agents. The review highlights that more research is needed in this area, which can answer important questions related to tumour formation and progression to ultimately identify new and effective therapeutic targets. Within the near-future of personalized medicine, this research can create patient-specific tumour models and therapeutic regimes.
Digital contact tracing in the pandemic cities: Problematizing the regime of traceability in South Korea
Authors: Yang Chamee
Published: April 2022

Since 2020, many countries worldwide have deployed digital contact tracing programs that rely on a range of digital sensors in the city to locate and map the routes of viral spread. Many critical commentaries have raised concerns about the privacy risks and trustworthiness of these programs. Extending these analyses, this paper opens up a different line of questioning that goes beyond privacy-centered single-axis critique of surveillance by considering digital contact tracing symptomatic of the broader changes in modes of urban governance that renders our cities traceable, knowable, and governable through data. Based on archival and real-time analysis of South Korean national and local COVID-19 dashboards, online forums, and interviews with South Korean public health practitioners, this paper offers a sociotechnical analysis of digital contact tracing that looks at the various intersections of state-political, bio-political, and techno-political power dynamics. In contrast to popular narratives that attributed the success of the Korean approach to digital contact tracing to its collectivist culture and smart city infrastructures, this paper suggests that the case can be better understood by looking at both the macro-level shift in the forms of governance that takes on a spatialized and networked character and the micro-level formation of moral responsibility that shape one's conduct as a health and safety-conscious citizens. As the latest realization of the expanding regime of traceability in digital/urban governance, the development of digital contract tracing is seen to parallel with concurrent changes occurring in multiple domains of life including knowledge production, cultural memory, and individual subjectivity.
Smartphone movement sensors for the remote monitoring of respiratory rates: Technical validation
Authors: Valentine Sophie , Cunningham Adam C. , Klasmer Benjamin , Dabbah Mohammad , Balabanovic Marko , Aral Mert , Vahdat Dan , Plans David
Published: April 2022

Background

Mobile health (mHealth) offers potential benefits to both patients and healthcare systems. Existing remote technologies to measure respiratory rates have limitations such as cost, accessibility and reliability. Using smartphone sensors to measure respiratory rates may offer a potential solution to these issues.

Objective

The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive assessment of a novel mHealth smartphone application designed to measure respiratory rates using movement sensors.

Methods

In Study 1, 15 participants simultaneously measured their respiratory rates with the app and a Food and Drug Administration-cleared reference device. A novel reference analysis method to allow the app to be evaluated ‘in the wild’ was also developed. In Study 2, 165 participants measured their respiratory rates using the app, and these measures were compared to the novel reference. The usability of the app was also assessed in both studies.

Results

The app, when compared to the Food and Drug Administration-cleared and novel references, respectively, showed a mean absolute error of 1.65 ( SD  =  1.49) and 1.14 (1.44), relative mean absolute error of 12.2 (9.23) and 9.5 (18.70) and bias of 0.81 (limits of agreement = –3.27 to 4.89) and 0.08 (–3.68 to 3.51). Pearson correlation coefficients were 0.700 and 0.885. Ninety-three percent of participants successfully operated the app on their first use.

Conclusions

The accuracy and usability of the app demonstrated here in individuals with a normal respiratory rate range show promise for the use of mHealth solutions employing smartphone sensors to remotely monitor respiratory rates. Further research should validate the benefits that this technology may offer patients and healthcare systems.
Can digital engagement improve outcomes for total joint replacements?
Authors: Milliren Carly E , Lindsay Bill , Biernat Lisa , Smith Todd A , Weaver Betsy
Published: April 2022

Background

Patient activation and engagement can improve outcomes of medical and surgical care by increasing involvement of patients in their care plan. We designed a digital engagement tool to improve surgical cancellation and post-surgical outcomes for adult patients undergoing total joint replacements by providing patient education materials via email or text, in small increments throughout the perioperative period.

Methods

We assessed the tool's impact using a quasi-experimental design comparing patients scheduled for surgery January–June 2017 (pre-intervention) versus January–June 2018 (post-intervention). Post-intervention patients with digital contact information in the medical record were automatically enrolled. We extracted de-identified administrative data for all patients during both time periods and utilized an intent-to-treat approach including all post-intervention patients regardless of enrollment. Surgical cancellation and post-surgical outcomes (length of stay, discharge to home and revisits and readmissions) were compared between periods using adjusted regression models. We also examined associations between measures of engagement with the intervention and outcomes.

Results

A total of 2027 joint replacement patients were included (720 hip replacements; 1307 knee replacements). Adjusting for gender, age and insurance type, both hip and knee patients in the post-intervention group were more likely to have a cancelled surgery, but cancellations were less likely to be on the day of surgery compared to pre-intervention patients. Post-intervention patients were also less likely to have length of stay >2 days. Forty- three per cent of hip and 47% of knee patients in the post-period received the intervention and most were highly engaged. Higher engagement was associated with lower odds of surgical cancellation, shorter stays and higher odds of discharge home.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that utilization of a digital patient engagement tool translates into improved hospital efficiency and patient outcomes, particularly for those highly engaged.
Early vs. late treatment initiation in multiple sclerosis and its impact on cost of illness: A register-based prospective cohort study in Sweden
Authors: Karampampa Korinna , Gyllensten Hanna , Murley Chantelle , Alexanderson Kristina , Kavaliunas Andrius , Olsson Tomas , Manouchehrinia Ali , Hillert Jan , Friberg Emilie
Published: April 2022

Background

Early treatment with disease modifying therapies (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS) has been associated with lower disability progression; the aim was to explore its association with cost of illness (COI) in MS.

Methods

All people with relapsing-remitting MS in the Swedish MS register, aged 20–57 years and receiving their first MS DMT in 2006–2009, were followed in nationwide registers for 8 years. Healthcare costs (in- and outpatient healthcare, DMTs and other prescribed drugs), and productivity losses (sickness absence and disability pension) of individuals receiving therapy in ≤6 months after diagnosis (early treatment group) were compared to those receiving therapy >6 months (late treatment group). Using Poisson regressions, the mean COI per patient per year, and per group, was estimated, adjusted for disability progression.

Results

The early treatment group comprised 74% of the 1562 individuals included in the study. The early treatment group had lower productivity losses over time. Both groups had similar healthcare costs, which first increased and then decreased over time.

Conclusions

Early DMT in MS could result in lower productivity losses possibly through maintained work capacity. COI serves as an objective measure showing the advantage of early vs. late treatment initiation in MS.
Autonomous Spinal Robotic System for Transforaminal Lumbar Epidural Injections: A Proof of Concept of Study
Authors: Margalit Adam , Phalen Henry , Gao Cong , Ma Justin , Suresh Krishna V. , Jain Punya , Farvardin Amirhossein , Taylor Russell H. , Armand Mehran , Chattre Akhil , Jain Amit
Published: April 2022

Study Design

Phantom study

Objective

The aim of our study is to demonstrate in a proof-of-concept model whether the use of a marker less autonomous robotic controlled injection delivery system will increase accuracy in the lumbar spine.

Methods

Ideal transforaminal epidural injection trajectories (bilateral L2/3, L3/4, L4/5, L5/S1 and S1) were planned out on a virtual pre-operative planning software by 1 experienced provider. Twenty transforaminal epidural injections were administered in a lumbar spine phantom model, 10 using a freehand procedure, and 10 using a marker less autonomous spinal robotic system. Procedural accuracy, defined as the difference between pre-operative planning and actual post-operative needle tip distance (mm) and angular orientation (degrees), were assessed between the freehand and robotic procedures.

Results

Procedural accuracy for robotically placed transforaminal epidural injections was significantly higher with the difference in pre- and post-operative needle tip distance being 20.1 (±5.0) mm in the freehand procedure and 11.4 (±3.9) mm in the robotically placed procedure ( P < .001). Needle tip precision for the freehand technique was 15.6 mm (26.3 – 10.7) compared to 10.1 mm (16.3 – 6.1) for the robotic technique. Differences in needle angular orientation deviation were 5.6 (±3.3) degrees in the robotically placed procedure and 12.0 (±4.8) degrees in the freehand procedure ( P = .003).

Conclusion

The robotic system allowed for comparable placement of transforaminal epidural injections as a freehand technique by an experienced provider, with additional benefits of improved accuracy and precision.
Validity and reliability test of ENDOCARE questionnaire adoption on endometriosis patients in Indonesia
Authors: Harzif Achmad Kemal , Pradana Agatha , Muharam Raden , Maidarti Mila , Pratama Gita , Sumapraja Kanadi , Charilda Fistyanisa Elya , Andyra Azizah Fitriayu
Published: April 2022

Background:

Endometriosis is a health problem that causes various biological, psychological, and social problems. Patient-centered care is the best standard of care in endometriosis cases. ENDOCARE is an questionnaire assessing all dimensions of patient-centered endometriosis care. However, there has been no adoption of this questionnaire in Indonesia.

Aim:

To determine the validity and reliability of the Indonesian version of the ENDOCARE questionnaire.

Method:

This study is a cross-sectional study conducted on patients with endometriosis on Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo, Jakarta, Indonesia from July 2020 to December 2020. Patients with communication problems were excluded from the study. The English version of the ENDOCARE questionnaire was translated into Indonesian and back into English by sworn translators and specialists in obstetrics and gynecology. Analysis of the validity and reliability of ENDOCARE was carried out.

Result:

There were 108 respondents who were included in the study. Percentage of negative experience (PNP), mean important score (MIS), and patient-centered care (PCS) score were analyzed. Validity and reliability tests were performed. There were 38 questions covering 10 dimensions in the Indonesian version of the ENDOCARE questionnaire

Conclusion:

The Indonesian version of the ENDOCARE questionnaire is a valid and reliable questionnaire in assessing patient-centered care of endometriosis.
An Indicator of environmental enrichment to measure physical, social and cognitive activities in human daily life
Authors: Flores-Ramos Mónica , Yoldi-Negrete María , Guiza-Zayas Rodrigo , Ramírez-Rodríguez Gerardo-Bernabé , Montes-Castrejón Adolfo , Fresán Ana
Published: April 2022

Background

The concept of environmental enrichment (EE) encompasses complex physical, social, cognitive, motor, and somatosensory stimuli to which individuals are differentially exposed. An indicator of EE comprising these elements would facilitate the study of the impact of EE in diverse clinical settings by allowing an easy and comparable measurement. This study aimed to create and test such an EE indicator based on the Florida Cognitive Activities Scale (FCAS), the Multidimensional Social Integration in Later Life Scale (SILLS), and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ).

Methods

Participants with major depression and control subjects were recruited in this cross-sectional comparative study. Depressive symptom severity was assessed with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D). The EE indicator was used to evaluate cognitive, social, and physical activity. We divided the sample into three levels of cognitive and social activities to construct an EE indicator and compared the obtained scores between participants with major depression and control subjects.

Results: 40 patients suffering from major depression and 50 control subjects were included. Higher HAM-D scores were associated with lower EE levels. Cognitive and social items exhibited adequate reliability. Control subjects reported higher scores in all three activities evaluated, except for some items of physical activities. This indicator of EE clearly differentiated between participants with major depression from control subjects.

Conclusions

FCAS, SILLS, and IPAQ used together are valid to evaluate EE. This EE indicator may be a useful tool during clinical practice. The cross-sectional design and the small sample size are limitations of the present study.
A tool for early estimation of influenza vaccination coverage in Spanish general population and healthcare workers in the 2018–19 season: the Gripómetro
Authors: Díez-Domingo Javier , Redondo Margüello Esther , Ortiz de Lejarazu Leonardo Raúl , Gil de Miguel Ángel , Guillén Ortega José María , Rincón Mora Jesús , Martinón-Torres Federico
Published: April 2022

Asbtract

Background

Electronic vaccine registries are not yet widely established. There is a need to real-time monitor influenza vaccine coverage, which may raise awareness to risk groups and professionals, and eventually allow to adopt tailored measures during the vaccination campaign. To evaluate the utility of the “Gripómetro”, a demographic study designed to monitor national and regional influenza vaccine coverage on a weekly basis in Spain.

Methods

Quantitative study based on surveys of the Spanish population between 18–80 years and a sample of primary care doctors and nurses randomly selected. Pre-proportional fixation has been established by Autonomous Communities and age group to guarantee the representativeness of all the autonomies.

Results

Interviews were conducted in 3400 households of general population and 807 respondents among health care professionals. We found that the results of influenza vaccination coverage in the population ≥ 65 years obtained by the Gripómetro for 2018–2019 season were mostly comparable with the official data presented by the Ministry of Health after the end of the vaccination campaign.

Conclusions

The Gripómetro is a robust research method that provides real-time data and trends for influenza vaccine coverage along with other useful information related to vaccination such as intention to vaccinate, motivation and barriers to vaccination.
Impact of chronic co-infection in pulmonary Mycobacterium avium complex disease after treatment initiation
Authors: Urabe Naohisa , Sakamoto Susumu , Shimanuki Yui , Kanokogi Takumi , Motohashi Takumi , Anzai Nanami , Kato Chiaki , Yamaguchi Asuka , Tokita Nozomi , Homma Sakae , Kishi Kazuma
Published: April 2022

Background

The impact of co-infection with other pathogenic microorganisms after initiation of treatment for Mycobacterium avium complex pulmonary disease (MAC-PD) has not been clearly described. This study sought to clarify the clinical outcomes of co-infection with MAC after antimycobacterial therapy for MAC.

Methods

Co-infection status was defined as the detection of pathogenic microorganisms other than MAC in at least two consecutive sputum cultures 6–24 months after initiation of treatment. Chest computed tomography (CT) findings and culture results were compared between co-infection and MAC alone groups.

Results

The co-infection and MAC alone groups comprised 12 and 36 patients, respectively. The proportion of patients with sputum culture positive for MAC after 24 months of therapy did not differ significantly between the two groups [25% (3/12) vs. 16.7% (6/36); p = 0.671]. The proportion of patients with improved chest CT score after 24 months of starting treatment compared to baseline was significantly lower for the co-infection group than for the MAC alone group [16.7% (2/12) vs. 79.4% (27/34); p < 0.001]. In the co-infection group, median CT score values at 12 and 24 months did not differ from baseline. However, the MAC alone group showed significant improvement at 12 and 24 months compared with baseline.

Conclusions

In the patient group with co-infection of other pathogenic microorganisms after treatment initiation for MAC there was no impact on therapeutic efficacy compared to the MAC alone group. However, therapeutic intervention interfered with improvement in chest CT findings such as nodule formation, bronchiectasis, infiltration, and cavitary lesions.
Postural control during single leg stance in individuals with clinical indication for combined reconstruction of the anterior cruciate and the anterolateral ligaments of the knee: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Novaes Marilia , Carvalho Adriana , Sauer Juliana F. , Brech Guilherme C. , Helito Camilo P. , João Silvia M. A.
Published: April 2022

Background

Several studies have shown persistent postural control deficits and rotatory instability in patients after isolated Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction. There is evidence to support that the Anterolateral Ligament (ALL) plays an important role in the remaining anterolateral rotatory laxity of the knee. There are no further evidences in order to understand how patients with a combined ACL + ALL reconstruction surgery indication behave regarding postural control. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess if patients with a clinical indication for the combined ACL + ALL surgery showed a deficient postural control in single leg stance compared to subjects with a regular ACL reconstruction indication and to a control group.

Methods

An assessment of static postural control on single leg stance was performed on a force plate, with eyes open and closed, and the center of pressure (COP) displacement variables were analyzed: maximum and mean amplitude in anteroposterior (AP) and in mediolateral (ML) direction; mean velocity of displacement and area of displacement. Eighty-nine male individuals participated and were divided into 3 groups: ACL Group, ACL + ALL Group and Control Group.

Results

The ACL+ ALL Group showed significantly greater COP displacement in most variables in the injured leg for the eyes closed test, compared to the ACL Group, as detailed: Total ML displacement (9.8 ± 6.77 vs. 13.98 ± 6.64, p < 0.001); Mean ML displacement (2.58 ± 2.02 vs. 3.72 ± 1.99, p < 0.001); Total AP displacement (9.5 ± 3.97 vs. 11.7 ± 3.66, p = 0.001); Mean AP displacement (1.77 ± 0.87 vs. 2.27 ± 0.86, p = 0.001); Area of displacement (111.44 ± 127.3 vs. 183.69 ± 131.48, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Subjects with a clinical indication for ACL + ALL combined reconstruction surgery showed increased COP displacement compared to patients with indication for an ACL isolated reconstruction surgery.
Collective efficacy measures for women and girls in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Dehingia Nabamallika , Dixit Anvita , Heskett Karen , Raj Anita
Published: April 2022

Background

Prior research has shown collective efficacy to be a key determinant of women’s well-being. However, much of the work around measuring this construct has been done in high-income geographies, with very little representation from low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). To fill this gap, and guide future research in low resource settings, we aim to summarize best evidence measures of collective efficacy for women and girls from LMICs.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched five databases for English language peer-reviewed literature on measures of collective efficacy, published between 1 January 2009 and 25 August 2020. In addition, we sought expert input for relevant papers in this area. Research staff screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles in a double-blind review. Inclusion criteria were: (i) original quantitative analysis, and (ii) sample limited to women/girls only (≥ 100), residing in LMICs.

Results

We identified 786 unique articles, 14 of which met inclusion criteria. Eligible studies captured a diversity of population groups, including pregnant women, recent mothers, adolescent girls, and female sex workers, from across national settings. Two broad constructs of collective efficacy were captured by the measures: (i) group dynamics, and (ii) collective action. All 14 studies included items on group dynamics in their measures, whereas seven studies included items on collective action. Four studies validated new measures of collective efficacy, and seven provided evidence supporting the relationship between collective efficacy and outcomes related to women’s well-being. Overall, measures demonstrated good reliability and validity when tested, and those testing for associations or effects found a positive relationship of collective efficacy with women’s health behaviors.

Conclusion

The past decade has resulted in a number of new collective efficacy measures demonstrating good validity in terms of their associations with key health outcomes among women and girls from across LMIC settings, but there remains no standard measure in the field. Those that exist focus on group dynamics, but less often on collective action. A standard measure of collective efficacy inclusive of group dynamics and collective action can support better understanding of the value of women’s collectives across national settings and populations.
Peer support in an outpatient clinic for people living with human immunodeficiency virus: a qualitative study of service users’ experiences
Authors: Øgård-Repål Anita , Berg Rigmor C. , Skogen Vegard , Fossum Mariann
Published: April 2022

Background

Although human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has become a manageable condition with increasing life expectancy, people living with HIV (PLHIV) are still often isolated from society due to stigma and discrimination. Peer support provides one avenue for increased social support. Given the limited research on peer support from the perspective of PLHIV, this study explored their experiences of peer support organised by healthcare professionals in an outpatient clinical setting.

Methods

The study used a qualitative, descriptive research design for an in-depth understanding of peer support provided to PLHIV in the context of outpatient clinics. Healthcare professionals contributed to the recruitment of 16 participants. We conducted in-depth interviews about participants’ experiences of peer support, and performed a directed content analysis of the data. Further, we sorted the data into pre-determined categories.

Results

The pre-determined categories constituted attachment, social integration, an opportunity for nurturance, reassurance of worth, reliable alliance, and guidance. The identified themes were:gained emotional support,disclosure behaviour allowed garnering of emotional support,non-disclosure promoted the need to meet a peer,experienced a sense of belonging,activated an opportunity for mutual support,means to re-establish belief in one’s own worth,perceived a positive affirmation of disease management,facilitated dialogue about disease management, the outpatient clinic asa safe place,and a setting for flexible, individualised support.

Conclusions

This study highlights the peer support experiences of PLHIV in the context of outpatient clinics. The participants’ experiences align with previous findings, showing that peer support contributes to mutual emotional support between peers. This is particularly important in cultures of non-disclosure where PLHIV experience intersectional stigma. Additionally, our results show outpatient clinics to be supportive surroundings for facilitating peer support, ensuring confidentiality in peer support outreach. Therefore, peer support contributes positively to individualising outpatient clinic services to meet the changing needs of PLHIV.
Improving astaxanthin production in Escherichia coli by co-utilizing CrtZ enzymes with different substrate preference
Authors: Zhang Meng , Gong Zhongkuo , Tang Jinlei , Lu Fuping , Li QingYan , Zhang XueLi
Published: April 2022

Background

The bifunctional enzyme β-carotene hydroxylase (CrtZ) catalyzes the hydroxylation of carotenoid β-ionone rings at the 3, 3’ position regardless of the presence of keto group at 4, 4’ position, which is an important step in the synthesis of astaxanthin. The level and substrate preference of CrtZ may have great effect on the amount of astaxanthin and the accumulation of intermediates.

Results

In this study, the substrate preference of PCcrtZ from Paracoccus sp. PC1 and PAcrtZ from Pantoea Agglomerans were certified and were combined utilization for increase astaxanthin production. Firstly, PCcrtZ from Paracoccus sp. PC1 and PAcrtZ from P. Agglomerans were expressed in platform strains CAR032 (β-carotene producing strain) and Can004 (canthaxanthin producing strain) separately to identify their substrate preference for carotenoids with keto groups at 4,4’ position or not. The results showed that PCcrtZ led to a lower zeaxanthin yield in CAR032 compared to that of PAcrtZ. On the contrary, higher astaxanthin production was obtained in Can004 by PCcrtZ than that of PAcrtZ. This demonstrated that PCCrtZ has higher canthaxanthin to astaxanthin conversion ability than PACrtZ, while PACrtZ prefer using β-carotene as substrate. Finally, Ast010, which has two copies of PAcrtZ and one copy of PCcrtZ produced 1.82 g/L of astaxanthin after 70 h of fed-batch fermentation.

Conclusions

Combined utilization of crtZ genes, which have β-carotene and canthaxanthin substrate preference respectively, can greatly enhance the production of astaxanthin and increase the ratio of astaxanthin among total carotenoids.
The role of interleukin (IL)-23 in regulating pain in arthritis
Authors: Lee Kevin M.-C. , Sherlock Jonathan P. , Hamilton John A.
Published: April 2022

Current understanding of IL-23 biology, with its link to other pro-inflammatory cytokines, for example, IL-17 and granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), is primarily focused on T lymphocyte-mediated inflammation/autoimmunity. Pain is a significant symptom associated with many musculoskeletal conditions leading to functional impairment and poor quality of life. While the role of IL-23 in arthritis has been studied in mouse models of adaptive immune-mediated arthritis using targeted approaches (e.g., monoclonal antibody (mAb) neutralization), the literature on IL-23 and arthritis pain is limited. Encouragingly, the anti-IL-23p19 mAb, guselkumab, reduces pain in psoriatic arthritis patients. Recent evidence has suggested a new biology for IL-23, whereby IL-23 is required in models of innate immune-mediated arthritis and its associated pain with its action being linked to a GM-CSF-dependent pathway (the so-called GM-CSF➔CCL17 pathway). This Commentary discusses the current understanding of potential cytokine networks involving IL-23 in arthritis pain and provides a rationale for future clinical studies targeting IL-23p19 in arthritis pain.
MLL-AF4 and a murinized pSer-variant thereof are turning on the nucleolar stress pathway
Authors: Siemund Anna Lena , Hanewald Thomas , Kowarz Eric , Marschalek Rolf
Published: April 2022

Background

Recent pathomolecular studies on the MLL-AF4 fusion protein revealed that the murinized version of MLL-AF4, the MLL-Af4 fusion protein, was able to induce leukemia when expressed in murine or human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (Lin et al. in Cancer Cell 30:737–749, 2016). In parallel, a group from Japan demonstrated that the pSer domain of the AF4 protein, as well as the pSer domain of the MLL-AF4 fusion is able to bind the Pol I transcription factor complex SL1 (Okuda et al. in Nat Commun 6:8869, 2015). Here, we investigated the human MLL-AF4 and a pSer-murinized version thereof for their functional properties in mammalian cells. Gene expression profiling studies were complemented by intracellular localization studies and functional experiments concerning their biological activities in the nucleolus.

Results

Based on our results, we have to conclude that MLL-AF4 is predominantly localizing inside the nucleolus, thereby interfering with Pol I transcription and ribosome biogenesis. The murinized pSer-variant is localizing more to the nucleus, which may suggest a different biological behavior. Of note, AF4-MLL seems to cooperate at the molecular level with MLL-AF4 to steer target gene transcription, but not with the pSer-murinized version of it.

Conclusion

This study provides new insights and a molecular explanation for the described differences between hMLL-hAF4 (not leukemogenic) and hMLL-mAf4 (leukemogenic). While the human pSer domain is able to efficiently recruit the SL1 transcription factor complex, the murine counterpart seems to be not. This has several consequences for our understanding of t(4;11) leukemia which is the most frequent leukemia in infants, childhood and adults suffering from MLL-r acute leukemia.
Image analysis of Moroccan carob seeds (Ceratonia siliqua L.) revealed substantial intraspecific variations depending on climate and geographic origin
Authors: Kassout Jalal , Hmimsa Younes , El Fatehi Salama , El Ouahrani Abdeltif , Kadaoui Khalil , Chakkour Soufian , Ariza-Mateos David , Palacios-Rodríguez Guillermo , Navarro-Cerrillo Rafael , Ater Mohammed
Published: April 2022

Background

The carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is one of the most iconic tree species of the Mediterranean region, with valuable economic, ecological and cultural value. Carob has been exploited around the Mediterranean region since antiquity and has been regarded as an important component of natural habitats and traditional agroecosystems. Several studies have focused on its morphological, biochemical, and genetic diversity. However, less is known about the intraspecific variation of seed traits. In this regard, and as an overall objective, we intend to evaluate the amplitude and the expression of intraspecific variations of carob seed traits at different ecological scales ranging from individual trees to different geographical landscapes. In addition, we investigated how the climate along the study area affects the extent of carob seed variability. Using image analysis techniques, we measured seven traits related to the size and the shape of 1740 seeds collected from 18 populations of spontaneous C. siliqua distributed along a latitudinal transect in Morocco under different bioclimatic conditions.

Results

The morphometric analysis of carob seed showed the effectiveness of adopted approach to highlight the amount and the amplitude of intraspecific variation according to geographic and climatic factors. Seed trait analysis revealed high intraspecific variability, explained by differences between and among carob populations and geographic zones. Seed area, perimeter, length, and width showed the largest variability between geographic zones. However, circularity, aspect ratio, and seed roundness showed higher variability at the tree level. Finally, our results show that seed traits vary depending on altitude and climate condition.

Conclusions

Revealing the amount and the structure of intraspecific traits variability of carob seed provides interesting insights to understand the mechanisms underlying trees adaptation to various environmental and ecological conditions. Therefore, intraspecific variation of seed traits should be integrated into trait-based functional ecology to assess plant species responses to environmental changes.
Experiences of parents and patients hospitalised in a child psychiatric unit for anorexia nervosa after reorganisation of care imposed by the COVID-19 Pandemic in France: a qualitative study—The QUALICOVID study
Authors: Sourlier Pauline , Bozzi Sophie , Kabuth Bernard , Lamourette Marilou , Ligier Fabienne
Published: April 2022

Background

Anorexia nervosa is a serious, albeit common mental illness that generally occurs during adolescence. Although outpatient care is recommended, hospitalisation is sometimes required. There is a dedicated hospitalisation unit caring for children and adolescents presenting with anorexia nervosa in Nancy, France. However, on 16 March 2020, a national lockdown was declared by the French government as the COVID-19 pandemic escalated in France. This resulted in the adjustment of hospital admissions accompanied by premature discharge and an intensive outpatient care programme. In the light of such changes, consideration should be given to the potential impact of changes in the care pattern for anorexic patients and their parents. The purpose of our study was to explore the experiences of anorexia nervosa patients hospitalised in the unit, and their parents, following changes in the care strategy.

Methods

The study was conducted between weeks four and eight after lockdown was announced. The study cohort included all the patients treated for anorexia nervosa and hospitalised in the treatment unit before 16 March 2020 and their parents. A qualitative method was used and every subject was offered a semi-structured interview. Data were analysed by means of inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Seven superordinate themes were identified: positive aspects, concerns, preparation, loss of landmarks and hospital security, gradual return to a “normal” life, relational aspects and the likelihood of disease progression. Moreover, all the parents and patients were satisfied with the intensive outpatient care offered on discharge.

Conclusion

Despite initial ambivalence, all patients and their parents viewed this unexpected hospital discharge positively in these exceptional conditions. This suggests that restructuring the care programme could prove beneficial with increasing use of outpatient management, thereby reducing the length of the hospital stay and adjusting the return to school.

Trial registration: ID-RCB 2020-A01101-38—This project was approved by the Comité de Protection des Personnes (CPP) Sud Méditerranée IV [South Mediterranean IV Ethics Committee (EC)] on 5 May 2020.
Analytical validation and initial clinical testing of quantitative microscopic evaluation for PD-L1 and HLA I expression on circulating tumor cells from patients with non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Schehr Jennifer L. , Sethakorn Nan , Schultz Zachery D. , Hernandez Camila I. , Bade Rory M. , Eyzaguirre Diego , Singh Anupama , Niles David J. , Henderson Leslie , Warrick Jay W. , Berry Scott M. , Sundling Kaitlin E. , Beebe David J. , Leal Ticiana A. , Lang Joshua M.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

PD-L1 expression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) predicts response to immune checkpoint blockade, however is an imperfect biomarker given tumor heterogeneity, and the antigen presentation pathway requiring other components including HLA I expression. HLA I downregulation may contribute to resistance, warranting its evaluation in attempts to guide patient selection. In addition, earlier detection of acquired resistance could prompt earlier change in treatment and prolong patient survival. Analysis of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) captures heterogeneity across multiple sites of metastases, enables detection of changes in tumor burden that precede radiographic response, and can be obtained in serial fashion.

Methods

To quantify the expression of both PD-L1 and HLA I on CTCs, we developed exclusion-based sample preparation technology, achieving high-yield with gentle magnetic movement of antibody-labeled cells through virtual barriers of surface tension. To achieve clinical-grade quantification of rare cells, we employ high quality fluorescence microscopy image acquisition and automated image analysis together termed quantitative microscopy.

Results

In preparation for clinical laboratory implementation, we demonstrate high precision and accuracy of these methodologies using a diverse set of control materials. Preliminary testing of CTCs isolated from patients with NSCLC demonstrate heterogeneity in PD-L1 and HLA I expression and promising clinical value in predicting PFS in response to PD-L1 targeted therapies.

Conclusions

By confirming high performance, we ensure compatibility for clinical laboratory implementation and future application to better predict and detect resistance to PD-L1 targeted therapy in patients with NSCLC.