bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Giving back and the moral logics of economic relations
Authors: Russell Ian
Published: September 2022

This paper uses David Graeber’s work on the moral grounds of economic relations as a vantage point from which to reflect on the ethics of giving back in field research, drawing on my own fieldwork experiences in Sierra Leone and Sri Lanka as well as examples from existing literature. I argue that Graeber’s exposition of different moral logics for economic relations – hierarchy, exchange and communism – provides a valuable set of conceptual distinctions for thinking through what is owed by, and to, researchers in different research interactions. In addition to a recognition of the incommensurability of what is often being exchanged, this approach responds to the danger of researchers setting the terms of ethical interaction, through distant institutional processes and practices built on logics of exchange, in ways that might constrain the ability of interlocutors to meaningfully articulate their own positions in fieldwork relations.
Internal damage localization for large-scale hollow cylinders based on helical sensor network
Authors: Zhu Yanping , Hu Yue , Li Fucai , Abbas Saqlain , Bao Wenjie , Su Wensheng
Published: September 2022

The hollow cylinder with a large diameter is the typical shell structure in major engineering applications such as aviation, aerospace, ocean, and so on. Unlike the geometric properties of transportation pipe, the shell structure has a large size and short length. It is relatively difficult to detect damage globally. According to the abovementioned characteristics, a damage localization method based on helical sensor network is proposed in the current research work to locate the internal damage in large-scale hollow cylinder in which the sensors are arranged on the outer surface of the structure. The wavefront theory about flexural modes is fully explored to determine helical sensor network which is suitable for the full frequency spectrum and avoids the approximate estimation to the wave in plate. The flexible sensing paths and single mode excitation in helical sensor network also provide more possibilities for the damage localization in hollow cylinder. The verification method of circumferential orders based on the Fourier transform is developed by the normal mode expansion approach. To apply the helical sensor network of flexural mode in damage localization, the effective loading length of flexural modes is investigated using simulation. And the simulation and experiment both are conducted to locate the internal damage in hollow cylinders and verify the credibility of proposed localization method. The scale parameter and sensing path number are further investigated to determine the effect on location accuracy.
Transcarotid Revascularization Results in Patients Over 70 Years of Age
Authors: Dias Christina G. , Fajardo Andres , Martin Gordon H. , Tanaka Akiko , Motaganahalli Raghu L. , Keyhani Arash , Keyhani Kourosh , Wang S. Keisin
Published: September 2022

Objective

Carotid endarterectomy is associated with fewer procedure-related strokes than transfemoral carotid artery stenting in older populations, based on the results from previous quality randomized controlled studies. Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) is a hybrid procedure completed in the setting of cerebral flow reversal to deploy a stent, making it an appealing choice for older patients. This study was completed to elicit any age-related differences in outcomes after undergoing TCAR in patients 70 years of age and older.

Methods

A retrospective review was completed of a dual institutional database between December 2015 and April 2022 to capture demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative results. The geriatric cohort was defined at a cutoff of 70 years. Univariate statistical testing between groups were completed with Student’s T-test or Fisher’s exact test at an α of .05 for continuous and categorical variables, respectively.

Results

851 procedures were captured for statistical analysis. With age cutoff of 70 years, we generated 567 geriatric (78.4 ± 5.7 years) and 284 young (63.2 ± 5.7 years) patients. The older patients tended to have more baseline illness, as measured by a higher rate Charlson Comorbidity Index (4.4 ± 2.2 vs 6.0 ± 2.1, P < .01). Younger patients tended to be actively smoking (42.3% vs 17.6%, P < .01). Intraoperative variables were grossly similar by age, including blood loss (43.0 ± 45.0 vs 45.7 ± 50.3 mLs, P = .45), reverse flow time (9.0 ± 7.4 vs 9.0 ± 6.7 mins, P = .98), and technical success (98.9% vs 98.6%, P = .76). While we observed an increased rate of stroke in the older patients, this did not reach statistical significance (1.4% vs 2.6%, P = .33). There were no differences between age groups with respect to myocardial infarction (0% vs .5%, P = .55) and death (1.1% vs 1.1%, P > .99) in the 30-day perioperative period.

Conclusion

We found that TCAR was not associated with age-related increases in adverse outcomes and can be considered a viable option when treating carotid artery stenosis in patients older than 70 years of age.
Photogrammetry as an Access Tool: A Case Study of Small Collections From the Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science
Authors: Matheny Rachel , Hagseth Meg , Schendel Tory L.
Published: September 2022

Museums throughout the United States house undocumented collections with variable access. With the technological developments over the past twenty years, digital documentation, particularly photogrammetry, has become more accessible and affordable which can bring these collections to a wider audience. This tool can help enable collaboration among researchers, institutions, and museum professionals, contribute to the stewardship of these collections, and overcome the physical and financial barriers that hinder open-access, allowing museum professionals to display their artifacts in new, engaging ways and make them more accessible to the public and other scholars. With the goal of using digital documentation to make archaeology and anthropology collections more accessible, five small artifacts from disparate collections in the Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science were recorded, drawn, and modeled: a Jerash type oil lamp, a Samaritan type oil lamp, a Roman oil lamp from Meidum, Egypt, an Ottoman ceramic smoking pipe, and a ceramic sherd. This case study illustrates how small to medium size institutions can construct a photogrammetry toolkit with minimal financial and staff resources.
Will I See Faces Like Mine?: Exploring Perceived Constraints to Outdoor Recreation Experiences at an HBCU
Authors: Dorwart Catherine E. , Patterson Anthony F. , Smith Cameron
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore perceived constraints of structured outdoor recreation experiences for students attending a Historically Black College/University (HBCU). Data were collected from four focus group sessions. Grounded Theory was used to analyze the data and from an analysis of data, four themes emerged: 1. Family impact, 2. Companionship, 3. Social media and technology, and 4. HBCU and Black American cultures. This study confirmed the importance of social companionship and the need for relevant marketing strategies as motivators for Black student participation in outdoor recreation activities at this HBCU. A common thread among the groups, was the perception of Whiteness in outdoor spaces and its negative impact on outdoor recreation involvement.
Surgical Complexity and Physician Compensation: An Analysis of Relative Under-Valuation for Pediatric Brachial Plexus Surgery
Authors: McCullough Meghan C. , Wlodarczyk Jordan , Jacob Laya , Hershenhouse Korri , Seruya Mitchel
Published: September 2022

Background:

Brachial plexus reconstruction (BPR) is a rapidly advancing field within hand surgery. BPR procedures are complex, time-intensive, and require microsurgical expertise. As physician reimbursement rates for BPR are poorly defined, relative to more common hand procedures, we sought to analyze compensation for BPR across different payor groups and understand the factors contributing to their reimbursement.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed of surgeries by a single senior staff member in a 4-year period to evaluate Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes from BPR cases. For comparison, all finger fracture fixations and skin graft reconstructions performed by the same surgeon over the same time period were analyzed as well.

Results:

A total of 57 BPR cases, 94 finger fracture fixation cases, and 69 skin grafting cases met inclusion criteria. Among the top 5 insurance providers, average work relative value unit (wRVU)/hour was 6.55, 3.49, and 12.67 for BPR, fracture fixation, and skin grafts, respectively. Reimbursements were an average $685.76/hour for BPR, compared to $590.10/hour for fracture fixation and $1,197.94/hour for skin grafts.

Conclusions:

BPR demonstrates a relative undervaluation, in terms of reimbursement per hour, given the time and surgical skill required for such cases, particularly compared to shorter, less complex cases such as skin grafting and fracture fixation. We find that this discrepancy is amplified across multiple levels of coding, billing, and reimbursement. We suggest specific strategies for physician leadership to more directly participate in the financial decisions that affect themselves, their patients, and their specialty.
Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthroplasty Using a Silicone Implant: A Comparison Between Integra and NeuFlex in 72 Cases
Authors: Weistra Kelly , Kan Hester J. , van Alebeek Veerle A. H. J. , Ritt Marco J. P. F.
Published: September 2022

Background:

Osteoarthritis of the hand can lead to pain, stiffness, and deformation, and thus to functional disability. The purpose of this study was to compare short-term clinical outcomes of 2 silicone proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint implants, NeuFlex and Integra, in patients with primary osteoarthritis.

Methods:

We included 72 PIP joints, of which 40 were replaced by a NeuFlex implant and 32 by an Integra implant. The average follow-up was 12 months for the Integra group and 16 months for the NeuFlex group.

Results:

There was no change in active flexion preoperatively and postoperatively. Extension lag and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score decreased substantially in both groups, whereas grip strength and Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) score increased. All patients were satisfied. Between groups, there was a significant difference in the PSFS score, in favor of the Integra group.

Conclusions:

Both implants have excellent results, but more research is needed with more patients to prevent bias and to determine the long-term outcome of these implants.
Single Centre Initial Experience with the Scepter Mini Balloon Microcatheter
Authors: Jeremic Philip Alexander , do Nascimento Vinicius Carraro , Rice Hal , Villiers Laetitia de
Published: September 2022

Background

The use of balloon microcatheters in interventional neuroradiology is well documented. However, their use is sometimes limited by the small diameter and excessive tortuosity of the vasculature. The Scepter Mini dual-lumen balloon microcatheter (SMBM) (Microvention, Aliso Viejo, CA) has been designed to address these challenges by decreasing the distal catheter profile, allowing distal access to the target vessel.

Methods

This is a single-centre retrospective analysis of the initial cases performed using the Scepter Mini balloon microcatheter. The targeted conditions were vascular malformations. Patient clinical data, angiographic features of the vascular abnormalities and operation reports were reviewed and the procedural parameters, radiation doses, occlusion rates and complications were assessed.

Results

A total of 15 SMBM were used in 11 cases. In all cases the procedure performed was balloon inflation and antegrade delivery of precipitating hydrophobic injectable liquid (PHIL) (Microvention, Aliso Viejo, CA) for embolisation of a targeted feeding vessel and cranial and spinal vascular malformations. Successful feeding vessel distal access and antegrade liquid embolisation was achieved in 100% of the cases. One of the 11 cases was an emergency procedure. One procedural target vessel rupture, likely due to overinflation, and three minor post-procedure complications were observed.

Conclusion

The SMBM represents a significant advance in the treatment of cerebrospinal vascular malformations, allowing balloon catheter access into tortuous and small calibre vessels.
An analysis method for fatigue life of rail vehicle axles considering rotation effect of wheelset
Authors: Guo Hanfei , Li Xiangwei , Liu Xiaoxue
Published: September 2022

In this paper, the discrepancy between the calculated and actual fatigue life distribution trend of the axles of railway vehicle structures is corrected. The calculations were made using the traditional fixed-axle model in which the wheelset rotation is neglected in random vibration analysis. A correction method is proposed, which is based on the original methods of fatigue life analysis of the axle structure of railway vehicles (i.e. the pseudo-excitation method and finite element model) and according to the characteristics of the symmetrical axle structure and the actual rotational operation state of the railway vehicle wheelset. Taking a locomotive system as an example, the minimum fatigue life calculated by the fixed-axle model is only 0.81 million km. In contrast, the minimum fatigue life calculated by the proposed method is 5.85 million km, which is consistent with the actual fatigue life of the axle. The position of the minimum fatigue life is also consistent with the actual position. The reliability of the proposed method for calculating the random fatigue life of the axle structure is illustrated. The influence and contribution of the prestress generated by axle press-fitting and vehicle serving weight of the railway vehicle acting on the axle on the axle fatigue life were studied. The results show that the prestress has a different influence on the fatigue life reduction of the wheelset. The minimum fatigue life reduction can reach 16.68% when all the prestresses are considered. Therefore, the influence of prestress should be considered in the design of railway vehicle axle structures. The idea of considering prestress should be proposed when revising axle standards.
Life-courses, social change and politics: Evidence for the role of politically motivated structural-level influences on individual criminal careers
Authors: Farrall Stephen , Gray Emily , Jones Philip Mike
Published: September 2022

Criminal careers research is one of the largest fields of research in modern criminology. However, it has almost exclusively focussed on individual-level explanations of onset, maintenance and desistance. In this article, and in part inspired by recent work by John Braithwaite (and others), we argue that criminal careers research needs to attend in greater detail to the macro-logical processes which shape offending careers. Herein, we outline key conceptual elements, which, when incorporated with life-course theorising, may offer a way to include specific social, economic, cultural, historical, and political influences on criminal careers. Our aim is to examine a key knowledge gap within developmental and life-course criminology (namely, the role of politically motivated policy choices) and to propose a possible solution to this. In so doing, we summarise our recent research exploring the role of political processes on criminal careers using birth cohort data. We highlight the need for life-course and developmental criminology to explore the detailed role of structural-level processes in the explanation of individual-level offending careers. As such, our article presents new directions for examination and empirical research.
Role of advanced (magnetic resonance) neuroimaging and clinical outcomes in neonatal strokes: Experience from tertiary care center
Authors: Sarjare Sandhya , Nedunchelian Meena , Ravichandran Srivijayalakshmi , Rajaiah Balakrishnan , Karupanan Rajendran , Abiramalatha Thangaraj , Gunasekaran Kannan , Ramakrishnan Srinivas , Varadharajan Shriram
Published: September 2022

Neonatal strokes constitute a major cause of pediatric mortality and morbidity. Neuroimaging helps in its diagnosis as well as prognostication. However, advanced imaging, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), carries multiple challenges. Limited data exists in the literature on imaging-based predictors of neurological outcomes in neonatal stroke in the Indian population. In this study, we reviewed our available data on neonatal stroke patients between 2015 and 2020 for clinico-radiological patterns. During this period, 17 neonatal strokes were admitted and the majority were term births with a slight male preponderance. Seizures and encephalopathy were the most common presentation. Multiple maternal risk factors such as gestational diabetes, meconium-stained liquor, APLA syndrome, fever, deranged coagulation profile, oligohydramnios, cord prolapse, and non-progressive labor were seen. Cardiac abnormalities were seen in only less than half of these patients with the most common finding being atrial septal defects (ASD). Transcranial ultrasound was performed in eight neonates and the pick-up rate of ultrasound was poor. MR imaging showed large infarcts in 11 patients. The MCA territory was most commonly involved. Interestingly, five neonates had venous thrombosis with three showing it in addition to arterial thrombosis. Associated ictal, as well as Wallerian changes, were noted in 10. Although large territorial infarcts were the most common pattern, non-contrast MR angiography did not show major vessel occlusion in these cases. Outcomes were fairly good and only three patients had a residual motor deficit at 1 year. No recurrence of stroke was seen in any of the neonates.
Pharyngeal dermoid cyst causing partial upper airway obstruction in a cat
Authors: Koch Lydia , Csebi Peter , Lipnik Karoline , Gradner Gabriele
Published: September 2022

Case summary

A 2-year-old cat was presented with nasopharyngeal stridor and stertor. Radiographs of the upper neck region showed a mass lesion in the nasopharynx. A nasopharyngeal polyp was suspected, but an attempt at endoscopic removal failed, owing to fragmentation of the mass and excessive haemorrhage. A sample was taken and histology confirmed a dermoid cyst. CT was performed and the lesion was described as most likely to be a dermoid cyst, consistent with the histopathological findings. Surgical exploration and subsequent complete removal of the mass led to a full recovery.

Relevance and novel information

The nasopharyngeal location represents a previously unreported location of a dermoid cyst. This report raises awareness of dermoid cysts as a potential differential diagnosis within the nasopharyngeal region and highlights the importance of pre-interventional diagnostic imaging.
Seafood safety: A need for greater awareness
Authors: Choudhury Samira , Medina-Lara Antonieta , Daniel Nicholas , Smith Richard
Published: September 2022

Although seafood consumption is recommended as part of a healthy diet, several marine biotoxins are present in seafood, which are associated with adverse health effects such as gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms and, therefore, pose unique food safety concerns. Given that global seafood consumption has increased and is expected to increase further along with increasing interest in reducing meat consumption also as part of commitments to climate change, oversight of seafood quality should be a priority to prevent future contamination. In this editorial, several measures are recommended that should be taken to ensure consumer seafood safety.
Effect of 3-Dimensional Versus Single-Plane Changes in Pelvic Dynamics on Range of Motion in Hips With Femoroacetabular Impingement: A Computer Simulation Analysis
Authors: Honda Hideki , Kobayashi Naomi , Kamono Emi , Yukizawa Yohei , Higashihira Shota , Takagawa Shu , Choe Hyonmin , Ike Hiroyuki , Tezuka Taro , Inaba Yutaka
Published: September 2022

Background:

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is primarily caused by bony impingement between the acetabulum and femoral neck during hip motion. Increasing posterior pelvic tilt improves hip range of motion in patients with FAI.

Purpose:

To use computer simulation analysis to compare the effects of 3-dimensional (3D) changes in pelvic tilt (sagittal tilt [St], axial rotation, and coronal tilt) with changes in a single plane (St), with the aim of improving range of motion in patients with FAI.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

We evaluated 43 patients with FAI treated by arthroscopic cam resection. A 3D simulation was used to construct the following pelvic models: a 5° and 10° increase posteriorly in St (St5° and St10°) and a combined 5° change in St, axial rotation, and coronal tilt (Complex5°) from the baseline of the anterior pelvic plane. Improvements in maximum internal rotation (MIR) at 45°, 70°, and 90° of hip flexion and improvements in maximum flexion with no internal rotation were compared among the St5°, St10°, and Complex5° models. The pelvic models of each single-plane change of 5° and 10° were evaluated in the same simulation.

Results:

At 90° and 70°, there was a significant difference between the Complex5° and St10° models with respect to improvement in MIR ( P = .004 at 90° of flexion; P = .017 at 70° of flexion). There was no significant difference in MIR at 45° of flexion ( P = .71) or in maximum flexion ( P = .42).

Conclusion:

At 70° and 90° of hip flexion, a combined change in 3D pelvic alignment of 5° (ie, St, axial rotation, and coronal tilt) was more effective in improving hip MIR than a 10° change in St only.

Clinical Relevance:

Effective physical therapy for FAI should address pelvic motion in all 3 planes rather than in a single plane.
Outcomes of Arthroscopic Lysis of Adhesions for the Treatment of Postoperative Knee Arthrofibrosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fackler Nathan , Chin Garwin , Karasavvidis Theofilos , Bohlen Hunter , Smith Eric , Amirhekmat Arya , Wang Dean
Published: September 2022

Background:

Postoperative knee arthrofibrosis is a common and potentially detrimental complication affecting knee function and gait. Several cohort studies have reported good outcomes after arthroscopic lysis of adhesions (LOA) with manipulation under anesthesia (MUA).

Purpose:

To review the literature assessing the efficacy and complications of arthroscopic LOA and MUA for postoperative arthrofibrosis of the knee and evaluate whether any relevant subgroups are associated with different clinical presentation and outcomes.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This review was performed according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Eligible studies published from January 1, 1990, to April 1, 2021, were identified through a search of the US National Library of Medicine (PubMed/MEDLINE), EMBASE, and Cochrane databases. All studies included in this analysis included pre- and postoperative range of motion measurements for their treated patients. Studies reporting outcomes for patients with isolated cyclops lesions after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were excluded.

Results:

Eight studies comprising 240 patients were included. The mean time from index surgery to arthroscopic LOA and MUA was 8.4 months, and the mean postoperative follow-up was at 31.2 months. All studies demonstrated a significant improvement (41.6°) in arc of motion after arthroscopic LOA. Clinically significant improvements in outcome measures, including the International Knee Documentation Committee, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, were reported after arthroscopic LOA across all applicable studies. Of 240 patients, a single complication (synovial fistula) occurred after LOA and MUA, which resolved without intervention.

Conclusion:

The results of this review indicated that arthroscopic LOA and MUA is a safe and efficacious treatment for postoperative arthrofibrosis of the knee.
Charitable Legal Immigration Programs and the US Undocumented Population: A Study in Access to Justice in an Era of Political Dysfunction
Authors: Kerwin Donald , Millet Evin
Published: September 2022

This study examines the legal capacity available to low-income immigrants on national, state and sub-state levels. Legal professionals working in charitable immigration service programs serve as the study's rough proxy for legal capacity, and undocumented immigrants its proxy for legal need. The Center for Migration Studies of New York (CMS) compiled data on charitable immigration programs and their legal professionals from the: US Department of Justice's (DOJ's) “Recognized Organizations and Accredited Representatives Roster by State and City,” which is maintained by the Executive Office for Immigration Review's (EOIR's) Office of Legal Access Programs (OLAP). Directories of two leading, legal support agencies for charitable immigration legal programs, the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc. (CLINIC) and the Immigrant Advocates Network (IAN). CMS supplemented and updated these sources with information from the websites of charitable immigration programs. It also added legal programs to its dataset that did not appear in any of these lists. It counted as legal professionals, attorneys, federally accredited non-attorneys, paralegals and legal assistants. The paper finds that there are 1,413 undocumented persons in the United States for every charitable legal professional, and far less capacity than the national average in: States such as Alabama (6,656 undocumented per legal professional), Hawaii (4,506), Kansas (3,010), Georgia (2,853), New Jersey (2,687), Florida (2,681), North Carolina (2,671), Virginia (2,634) and Arizona (2,561). Metropolitan areas (MAs) such as Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario (5,307), Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (4,436), Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale (3,439) and Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land (3,099). San Bernardino County (6,178), Clark County (4,747), Riverside County (4,625), Tarrant County (3,955) and Dallas County (3,939). The study's introduction summarizes its top-line findings. Its first section describes the importance of charitable immigration legal programs to immigrants, families and communities. Its second details the study's findings on charitable legal capacity and immigrant need. Its third compares the legal capacity of 1,803 charitable legal programs and their 7,322 legal professionals, with the US undocumented population by state and for the 15 largest MAs and counties. Its fourth describes CMS's research methodology and data sources. The paper ends with policy recommendations on how to expand legal capacity for low-income immigrants and better assess legal capacity and need moving forward.
The Burden and Quality of life of Caregivers of Stroke Survivors with Cognitive Impairment in Selected Healthcare Facilities in Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Okonkwo Uchenna Prosper , Agbo Chukwuebuka Fortune , Ibeneme Sam Chidi , Igwe Emeka Sylvester , Akosile Christopher Olusanjo , Onwuakagba Ifeoma Uchenna , Okoye Emmanuel Chiebuka , Maduagwu Stanley Monday , Ezenwankwo Elochukwu Fortune , Ekechukwu Echezona Nelson
Published: September 2022

Objective:

To determine the burden and quality of life of caregivers of stroke survivors with cognitive impairment in selected healthcare facilities in Anambra State, Nigeria.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional survey using the World Health Organization QOL-BREF and Caregiver Strain Index (CSI) as instruments. Descriptive statistics of frequency, percentage counts, mean and standard deviation were used to summarize the socio-demographics. Spearman’s ranked order correlation; Mann–Whitney U test assessed the correlation and gender and age difference in QoL and caregiver’s burden. Alpha level was set at 0.05.

Results:

Physical health domain of QOL was slightly moderate (53.29 ± 15.19), psychological health was low (46.33 ± 16.96), social relationship was slightly moderate (51.16 ± 0.31), environmental health was slightly moderate (51.22 ± 15.88), the burden of caregivers was high (6.35 ± 1.29).

Conclusion:

The quality of life of the caregivers of stroke survivors with cognitive impairment was moderate, and the caregivers’ stress was high in the sample of the population studied.
The political conditions of the rise of real-estate developers in French housing policies
Authors: Pollard Julie
Published: September 2022

Over the last two decades, real estate developers have become key players in the housing sector in France. This evolution has several dimensions: developers’ share of the housing construction market has increased, their geographical areas of intervention have expanded and their weight in social housing construction has soared. Since privatization and financialization are not adequate frameworks to account for the rise of these actors in the French housing context, other explanations are here explored. This article shows that the rise of real estate developers is mostly the result of changes led by national and local governments to gain capacity for action in a constrained budgetary context. More precisely, it investigates two policy instruments that have favored the developers’ expansion. First, tax expenditures for rental investment and, second, VEFA-HLM – a regulatory tool enabling the construction of social housing by real estate developers. Both instruments seek to enroll real estate developers in implementation, while political actors try to maintain control over decisions, and more broadly over the main orientations of housing policies. This article thus contributes to analyzing how, i.e. by which instruments, public actors can foster the rise of private economic actors in the development of urban policies.
Introduction: Uneven geographies of electricity capital
Authors: Luke Nikki , Huber Matthew T.
Published: September 2022

This special issue considers the relationship between energy, capitalism, and space through the lens of electricity capital. Electricity capital is the nexus of state, regulatory, and financial relationships that shape private accumulation through electricity provision. Although electricity provision is marked by immense historical and geographical diversity, the papers in this special issue work to theorize it as a core fraction of capital to draw into focus continuities and disruptions in capital flows amid the transition from fossil fuels to a diversity of clean sources. This special issue bridges debates in critical energy studies, economic geography, and political ecology on the possibilities of economic transformation through clean energy infrastructure by examining the dialectic between private accumulation through electrification and labor, environmental, and environmental justice organizing for “energy justice.” This special issue sheds light on the contradictory social relations that shape electrical power provision. We understand that electricity is seen not only as an energy source but also as an investment opportunity, a climate change mitigation strategy, an employment prospect, a component of economic development, and a site of democratic, community organizing. In so doing, we analyze the regulatory, financial, and infrastructural impediments to energy justice and international struggles to decarbonize the power sector to address climate change and to achieve universal and equitable electricity service.
Promotion in the Clearance of Aggregated Aβ In Vivo Using Amyloid Selective Photo-Oxygenation Technology
Authors: Hori Yukiko , Sohma Youhei , Kanai Motomu , Tomita Taisuke
Published: September 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by the aggregation and deposition of 2 amyloid proteins: amyloid β peptide (Aβ) and tau protein. Immunotherapies using anti-Aβ antibodies to promote the clearance of aggregated Aβ have recently been highlighted as a promising disease-modifying approach against AD. However, immunotherapy has still some problems, such as low efficiency of delivery into the brain and high costs. We have developed the “amyloid selective photo-oxygenation technology” as a comparable to immunotherapy for amyloids. The photo-oxygenation can artificially attach the oxygen atoms to specific amino acids in amyloid proteins using photocatalyst and light irradiation. We revealed that in vivo photo-oxygenation for living AD model mice reduced the aggregated Aβ in the brain. Moreover, we also showed that microglia were responsible for this promoted clearance of photo-oxygenated Aβ from the brain. These results indicated that our photo-oxygenation technology has the potential as a disease-modifying therapy against AD to promote the degradation of amyloids, resulting in being comparable to immunotherapy. Here, we introduce our technology and its effects in vivo that we showed previously in Ozawa et al., Brain, 2021, as well as a further improvement towards non-invasive in vivo photo-oxygenation described in another publication Nagashima et al., Sci. Adv., 2021, as expanded discussion.
Isophthalate:coenzyme A ligase initiates anaerobic degradation of xenobiotic isophthalate
Authors: Junghare Madan , Frey Jasmin , Naji Khalid M. , Spiteller Dieter , Vaaje-Kolstad Gustav , Schink Bernhard
Published: September 2022

Background

Environmental contamination from synthetic plastics and their additives is a widespread problem. Phthalate esters are a class of refractory synthetic organic compounds which are widely used in plastics, coatings, and for several industrial applications such as packaging, pharmaceuticals, and/or paints. They are released into the environment during production, use and disposal, and some of them are potential mutagens and carcinogens. Isophthalate (1,3-benzenedicarboxylic acid) is a synthetic chemical that is globally produced at a million-ton scale for industrial applications and is considered a priority pollutant. Here we describe the biochemical characterization of an enzyme involved in anaerobic degradation of isophthalate by the syntrophically fermenting bacterium Syntrophorhabdus aromaticivorans strain UI that activate isophthalate to isophthalyl-CoA followed by its decarboxylation to benzoyl-CoA.

Results

Isophthalate:Coenzyme A ligase (IPCL, AMP-forming) that activates isophthalate to isophthalyl-CoA was heterologously expressed in E. coli (49.6 kDa) for biochemical characterization. IPCL is homologous to phenylacetate-CoA ligase that belongs to the family of ligases that form carbon-sulfur bonds. In the presence of coenzyme A, Mg2+ and ATP, IPCL converts isophthalate to isophthalyl-CoA, AMP and pyrophosphate (PPi). The enzyme was specifically induced after anaerobic growth of S. aromaticivorans in a medium containing isophthalate as the sole carbon source. Therefore, IPCL exhibited high substrate specificity and affinity towards isophthalate. Only substrates that are structurally related to isophthalate, such as glutarate and 3-hydroxybenzoate, could be partially converted to the respective coenzyme A esters. Notably, no activity could be measured with substrates such as phthalate, terephthalate and benzoate. Acetyl-CoA or succinyl-CoA did not serve as CoA donors. The enzyme has a theoretical pI of 6.8 and exhibited optimal activity between pH 7.0 to 7.5. The optimal temperature was between 25 °C and 37 °C. Denaturation temperature (Tm) of IPCL was found to be at about 63 °C. The apparent KM values for isophthalate, CoA, and ATP were 409 μM, 642 μM, and 3580 μM, respectively. Although S. aromaticivorans is a strictly anaerobic bacterium, the enzyme was found to be oxygen-insensitive and catalysed isophthalyl-CoA formation under both anoxic and oxic conditions.

Conclusion

We have successfully cloned the ipcl gene, expressed and characterized the corresponding IPCL enzyme, which plays a key role in isophthalate activation that initiates its activation and further degradation by S. aromaticivorans. Its biochemical characterization represents an important step in the elucidation of the complete degradation pathway of isophthalate.
Risk factors for bloodstream infection (BSI) in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) supported by veno–venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV–ECMO)
Authors: Yang Liuting , Li Min , Gu Sichao , Feng Yingying , Huang Xu , Zhang Yi , Tian Ye , Wu Xiaojing , Zhan Qingyuan , Huang Linna
Published: September 2022

Background

There were relatively few studies about the incidence and risk factors for bloodstream infection (BSI) in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) supported by veno–venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV–ECMO).

Methods

Patients who were diagnosed with severe ARDS and received VV–ECMO treatment in the medical intensive care unit of China–Japan Friendship Hospital from August 2013 to March 2019 were retrospectively studied. The pathogens isolated from blood culture (BC) were identified and analyzed for drug sensitivity. The risk factors for BSI were analyzed by logistic regression.

Results

A total of 105 patients were included in this single–center retrospective cohort study. Among them, 23 patients (22%) had BSIs. 19 cases were identified as primary BSI; while the other 4 cases were as secondary BSI. A total of 23 pathogenic strains were isolated from BCs, including gram–negative (G–) bacilli in 21 (91%) cases, gram–positive (G+) cocci in 1 case, fungus in 1 case, and multidrug–resistant (MDR) organisms in 8 cases. Compared with patients without BSI, patients with BSI had a higher Murray score (odds ratio = 6.29, P = 0.01) and more blood transfusion (odds ratio = 1.27, P = 0.03) during ECMO.

Conclusions

The incidence of BSI in patients with severe ARDS supported by VV–ECMO was 22%. G– bacilli was the main pathogen, and most of them were MDR–G– bacilli (MDR–GNB). Higher Murray score and more blood transfusion may be the independent risk factors for BSI.
Students’ learning experiences of three-dimensional printed models and plastinated specimens: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Radzi Shairah , Chandrasekaran Ramya , Peh Zhen Kai , Rajalingam Preman , Yeong Wai Yee , Mogali Sreenivasulu Reddy
Published: September 2022

Background

Traditional cadaveric dissection is declining whilst plastinated and three-dimensional printed (3DP) models are increasingly popular as substitutes to the conventional anatomy teaching and learning methods. It is unclear about the pros and cons of these new tools and how they impact students’ learning experiences of anatomy including humanistic values such as respect, care and empathy. 

Methods

Ninety-six students’ views were sought immediately after a randomized cross-over study. Pragmatic design was used to investigate the learning experiences of using plastinated and 3DP models of cardiac (in Phase 1,n = 63) and neck (in Phase 2,n = 33) anatomy. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted based on 278 free text comments (related to strengths, weaknesses, things to improve), and focus group (n = 8) transcriptions in full verbatim about learning anatomy with these tools.

Results

Four themes were found: perceived authenticity, basic understanding versus complexity, attitudes towards respect and care, and multimodality and guidance.

Conclusions

Overall, students perceived plastinated specimens as more real and authentic, thus perceived more respect and care than 3DP models; whereas 3DP models were easy to use and prefered for learning basic anatomy.
Validation of an automated immunoturbidimetric assay for feline serum amyloid A
Authors: Waugh Elspeth M. , Haining Hayley , Harvie James , Ridyard Alison E. , Eckersall P. David
Published: September 2022

Background

Serum Amyloid A (SAA) is a major acute phase protein in cats, increasing rapidly in response to various inflammatory diseases. An automated latex-enhanced immunoturbidimetric assay for human SAA (LZ-SAA, Eiken), previously validated for use in cats, has had further major modification (VET-SAA, Eiken) for specific use in veterinary diagnostic laboratories but has yet to be validated in cats.

Results

Intra-assay and inter-assay CVs for the VET-SAA assay ranged from 1.88–3.57% and 3.98–6.74%, respectively. Linearity under dilution was acceptable with no prozone effect observed. Limit of detection was 1.65 mg/L and limit of quantification was 6 mg/L. Haemoglobin and triglyceride showed no adverse interference, but bilirubin produced positive bias in samples with low SAA. Comparison with the LZ-SAA assay showed significant correlation with proportional bias increasing as SAA concentration increased, likely related to differing calibration standards. SAA was significantly higher in patients with inflammatory disease compared with non-inflammatory disease, and in patients with moderate to highly elevated α1-AGP compared with patients with normal α1-AGP. Improvement of the assay range may be required to fully evaluate differences between disease groups at low SAA levels. Based on ROC curve analysis, at a cut-off point of 20.1 mg/L the VET-SAA assay discriminated between inflammatory and non-inflammatory disease with sensitivity of 0.93 and specificity of 0.99.

Conclusions

The automated VET-SAA assay is a robust, precise, and accurate method for measurement of feline SAA which can clearly identify patients with inflammatory disease. It should be a valuable biomarker for use in feline medicine.
Injection of amyloid-β to lateral ventricle induces gut microbiota dysbiosis in association with inhibition of cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathways in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Qian Xiao-hang , Liu Xiao-li , Chen Guang , Chen Sheng-di , Tang Hui-dong
Published: September 2022

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease and its pathogenesis is still unclear. There is dysbiosis of gut microbiota in AD patients. More importantly, dysbiosis of the gut microbiota has been observed not only in AD patients, but also in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, the mechanism of gut microbiota dysbiosis in AD is poorly understood. Cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway is an important pathway for the central nervous system (CNS) regulation of peripheral immune homeostasis, especially in the gut. Therefore, we speculated that dysfunction of cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway is a potential pathway for dysbiosis of the gut microbiota in AD.

Methods

In this study, we constructed AD model mice by injecting Aβ1–42 into the lateral ventricle, and detected the cognitive level of mice by the Morris water maze test. In addition, 16S rDNA high-throughput analysis was used to detect the gut microbiota abundance of each group at baseline, 2 weeks and 4 weeks after surgery. Furthermore, immunofluorescence and western blot were used to detect alteration of intestinal structure of mice, cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, and APP process of brain and colon in each group.

Results

Aβ1–42 i.c.v induced cognitive impairment and neuron damage in the brain of  mice. At the same time, Aβ1–42 i.c.v induced alteration of gut microbiota at 4 weeks after surgery, while there was no difference at the baseline and 2 weeks after surgery. In addition, changes in colon structure and increased levels of pro-inflammatory factors were detected in Aβ1–42 treatment group, accompanied by inhibition of cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathways. Amyloidogenic pathways in both the brain and colon were accelerated in Aβ1–42 treatment group.

Conclusions

The present findings suggested that Aβ in the CNS can induce gut microbiota dysbiosis, alter intestinal structure and accelerate the amyloidogenic pathways, which were related to inhibiting cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathways.
The effect of A1 and A2 reactive astrocyte expression on hydrocephalus shunt failure
Authors: Khodadadei Fatemeh , Arshad Rooshan , Morales Diego M. , Gluski Jacob , Marupudi Neena I. , McAllister James P. , Limbrick David D. , Harris Carolyn A.
Published: September 2022

Background

The composition of tissue obstructing neuroprosthetic devices is largely composed of inflammatory cells with a significant astrocyte component. In a first-of-its-kind study, we profile the astrocyte phenotypes present on hydrocephalus shunts.

Methods

qPCR and RNA in-situ hybridization were used to quantify pro-inflammatory (A1) and anti-inflammatory (A2) reactive astrocyte phenotypes by analyzing C3 and EMP1 genes, respectively. Additionally, CSF cytokine levels were quantified using ELISA. In an in vitro model of astrocyte growth on shunts, different cytokines were used to prevent the activation of resting astrocytes into the A1 and A2 phenotypes. Obstructed and non-obstructed shunts were characterized based on the degree of actual tissue blockage on the shunt surface instead of clinical diagnosis.

Results

The results showed a heterogeneous population of A1 and A2 reactive astrocytes on the shunts with obstructed shunts having a significantly higher proportion of A2 astrocytes compared to non-obstructed shunts. In addition, the pro-A2 cytokine IL-6 inducing proliferation of astrocytes was found at higher concentrations among CSF from obstructed samples. Consequently, in the in vitro model of astrocyte growth on shunts, cytokine neutralizing antibodies were used to prevent activation of resting astrocytes into the A1 and A2 phenotypes which resulted in a significant reduction in both A1 and A2 growth.

Conclusions

Therefore, targeting cytokines involved with astrocyte A1 and A2 activation is a promising intervention aimed to prevent shunt obstruction.
DNA barcoding: an efficient technology to authenticate plant species of traditional Chinese medicine and recent advances
Authors: Zhu Shuang , Liu Qiaozhen , Qiu Simin , Dai Jiangpeng , Gao Xiaoxia
Published: September 2022

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) plays an important role in the global traditional health systems. However, adulterated and counterfeit TCM is on the rise. DNA barcoding is an effective, rapid, and accurate technique for identifying plant species. In this study, we collected manuscripts on DNA barcoding published in the last decade and summarized the use of this technique in identifying 50 common Chinese herbs listed in the Chinese pharmacopoeia. Based on the dataset of the major seven DNA barcodes of plants in the NCBI database, the strengths and limitations of the barcodes and their derivative barcoding technology, including single-locus barcode, multi-locus barcoding, super-barcoding, meta-barcoding, and mini-barcoding, were illustrated. In addition, the advances in DNA barcoding, particularly identifying plant species for TCM using machine learning technology, are also reviewed. Finally, the selection process of an ideal DNA barcoding technique for accurate identification of a given TCM plant species was also outlined.
Variational approach to instantaneous and noninstantaneous impulsive system of differential equations
Authors: Yao Wangjin
Published: September 2022

In this paper, the existence and multiplicity of solutions for a coupled system of differential equations with instantaneous and noninstantaneous impulses are studied. By the virtue of variational methods, some new existence theorems of solutions are obtained. In addition, two examples are given to demonstrate our main results.