bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Journey of Material From Clinic to Pathology Laboratory: How Much Do Clinical Residents Know About This Process?
Authors: Çalım-Gürbüz Begüm , Güvendir İrem , Söylemez-Akkurt Tuçe , Gürbüz Gökhan , Erdoğan-Durmuş Şenay
Published: July 2023

Introduction. Pathology plays a major role in the management of patients. Specimen delivery to a pathology laboratory is the first step in the process. Sending materials to the pathology laboratory should be included as part of residency training. The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge and daily practice of residents who send materials to pathology laboratory. Methods. A 34-item questionnaire asking questions about biopsy/resection and cytology material handling and transportation was answered by 154 residents. Likert scaling and multiple-choice questions with a single answer were used to evaluate the responses. Their daily routines and levels of knowledge were statistically analyzed. Results. The mean age of the respondents was 29.1 ± 3.04 (range: 24-42 years), and 63% of the residents were male. The residents of the university hospital claimed that the clinical information they had learned about transferring material to the pathology laboratory was “sufficient” or “very sufficient” (statistically significant, P = .04). Correct answers about the process of sending biopsy/resection materials of experienced residents were statistically higher, while there was no statistical significance for questions about cytology materials ( P = .005, P = .24, respectively). Conclusion. The pathway to correct diagnosis builds on an understanding of the significance of pathology material. In residency training, knowledge about delivering biopsy/resection material to pathology laboratory is mostly acquired through experience. Experienced residents seem to be less familiar with cytology materials. Clinicopathological meetings may solve the main problems, but both clinics and pathology departments need to emphasize this process.
“Connecting the Dots”: Developing a Doctoral Qualitative Community of Practice
Authors: Costas Batlle Ioannis , Banks Kia , Rodohan Josie , Clift Bryan C , Bekker Sheree
Published: July 2023

This article focuses on the development of a community of practice (CoP) for qualitative doctoral researchers at the University of Bath (UK). Although the sources of support that qualitative doctoral researchers can access have grown substantially across the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, and South Africa (e.g., supervisor meetings, discrete courses, and standalone workshops), they generally remain “disjointed,” forcing qualitative doctoral researchers to individually navigate these “siloed” sources. In this article, we describe our solution to the problem—creating a doctoral CoP capable of “connecting the dots”—by drawing on 3 years of experience leading the CoP. We focus and reflect on our facilitation approach, session design, and challenges faced with the goal of sharing “best practice.”
Expression of early growth responsive gene-1 in the lateral geniculate body of kittens with amblyopia caused by monocular form deprivation
Authors: Wang Ying , Fan Haobo , Zou Yunchun , Song Weiqi , Li Lan , Xie Juan , Chen Siyu
Published: July 2023

Objective

The expression of early growth responsive gene-1 (Egr-1) in the lateral geniculate body in the normal kittens and those affected with amblyopia caused by monocular visual deprivation was compared to explore the potential significance of Egr-1 in the pathogenesis of amblyopia.

Methods

A total of 30 healthy kittens were equally and randomly divided into the control ( n = 15) and the deprivation group ( n = 15). The kittens were raised in natural light and the right eyes of the deprived kittens were covered with a black opaque covering. Pattern visual evoked potential (PVEP) was measured before and 1, 3, and 5 weeks after covering. Five kittens from each group were randomly selected and euthanized with 2% sodium pentobarbital (100 mg/kg) during the 1st, 3rd and 5th week after covering. The expression of Egr-1 in the lateral geniculate body in the two groups was compared by performing immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization.

Results

After three weeks of covering, PVEP detection indicated that the P100 wave latency in the deprivation group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05), whereas the amplitude decreased markedly (P < 0.05). The number of the positive cells (P < 0.05) and mean optical density (P < 0.05) of Egr-1 protein expression in the lateral geniculate body of the deprivation group were found to be substantially lower in comparison to the normal group, as well as the number (P < 0.05) and mean optical density of Egr-1 mRNA-positive cells (P < 0.05). However, with increase of age, positive expression of Egr-1 in the control group showed an upward trend (P < 0.05), but this trend was not noted in the deprivation group (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Monocular form deprivation can lead to substantially decreased expressions of Egr-1 protein and mRNA in the lateral geniculate body, which in turn can affect the normal expression of neuronal functions in the lateral geniculate body, thereby promoting the occurrence and development of amblyopia.
The selection of the suitable long peripheral catheter in DIVA patients: The significance of ultrasonography
Authors: Lisova Katerina , Pavelkova Katerina , Šimkova Petra , Mokra Dana , Palova Sabina , Charvat Jiri
Published: July 2023

Background:

There are several types of LPC (long peripheral catheters) that vary in length, size, insertion method, and cost. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether ultrasonography can be useful for the selection of the suitable LPC in DIVA (difficult intravenous access) patients.

Methods:

Based on the ultrasonographic examination, a long peripheral catheter was selected. A 6.4 cm LPC into a vein at a depth of up to 0.5 cm, a 8.5 cm LPC into a vein at a depth up to 1.5 cm, and a 9.8 cm catheter at a depth up to 2 cm using the cannula over needle method. A 12 cm catheter was inserted into the deeper veins using the direct Seldinger method. The catheter diameter was no more than 33% vein diameter. Dwell time and the number of complications of four vascular devices were recorded and compared.

Results:

One thousand one hundred fifty-six patients, average age 76 years (19–102), 501 men and 655 women, were included in the study. Average dwelling time was 10 days (1–30), there were 136 complications (11.7%). A catheter 6.4 cm long was inserted in 346 (29.8%), 8.5 cm in 140 (12.1%), 9.8 cm in 320 (27, 5%), and 12 cm in 356 (30.6%) patients. There were no significant differences in dwelling time, rate, and type of complications among the four catheters used.

Conclusion:

Our results confirm that ultrasound examination can be useful for the selection of the suitable long peripheral catheter in DIVA patients.
Social determinants of health and disparate disability accumulation in a cohort of Black, Hispanic, and White patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Orlando Christopher M , Pérez Carlos A , Agyei Paunel , Elsehety Marwah , Singh Sonia Kaur , Thomas Joseph , Alaina Omar , Lincoln John A
Published: July 2023

Background:

Black and Hispanic patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) have been shown to accumulate greater multiple sclerosis–associated disability (MSAD) than White patients. Disparities in social determinants of health (SDOH) among these groups have also been reported.

Objective:

To determine the extent to which associations of race and ethnicity with MSAD may be attributable to differences in SDOH.

Methods:

Retrospective chart analysis of patients at an academic MS center grouped by self-identified Black ( n = 95), Hispanic ( n = 93), and White ( n = 98) race/ethnicity. Individual patient addresses were geocoded and matched with neighborhood-level area deprivation index (ADI) and social vulnerability index (SVI).

Results:

Average Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores at last-recorded evaluations of White patients (1.7 ± 2.0) were significantly lower than Black (2.8 ± 2.4, p = 0.001) and Hispanic (2.6 ± 2.6, p = 0.020) patients. Neither Black race nor Hispanic ethnicity was significantly associated with EDSS in multivariable linear regression models that included individual-level SDOH indicators and either ADI or SVI.

Conclusion:

Black race and Hispanic ethnicity are not significantly associated with EDSS in models that include individual and neighborhood-level SDOH indicators. Further research should elucidate mechanisms by which structural inequities affect MS disease course.
The familial risk and heritability of multiple sclerosis and its onset phenotypes: A case–control study
Authors: Boles Graysen Steele , Hillert Jan , Ramanujam Ryan , Westerlind Helga , Olsson Tomas , Kockum Ingrid , Manouchehrinia Ali
Published: July 2023

Background:

The two main phenotypes of multiple sclerosis (MS), primary progressive (PPMS) and relapsing Onset (ROMS), show clinical and demographic differences suggesting possible differential risk mechanisms. Understanding the heritable features of these phenotypes could provide aetiological insight.

Objectives:

To evaluate the magnitude of familial components in PPMS and ROMS and to estimate the heritability of disease phenotypes.

Methods:

We used data from 25,186 MS patients of Nordic ancestry from the Swedish MS Registry between 1987 and 2019 with known disease phenotype (1593 PPMS and 16,718 ROMS) and 251,881 matched population-based controls and 3,364,646 relatives of cases and controls. Heritability was calculated using threshold–liability models. For familial odds ratios (ORs), logistic regression with robust sandwich estimator was utilized.

Results:

The OR of MS diagnosis in those with a first-degree family member with ROMS was 7.00 and 8.06 in those with PPMS. The corresponding ORs for having a second-degree family member with ROMS was 2.16 and 2.18 in PPMS. The additive genetic effect in ROMS was 0.54 and 0.22 in PPMS.

Conclusion:

Risk of MS increases by several folds in those with a relative with MS. The likelihood of developing either disease phenotype appears independent of genetic predisposition.
Practice without prospect: The imaginary response to the recording and investigations of sexual assault in prison
Authors: Wilkinson Joanne , Fleming Jenny
Published: July 2023

This article draws on Incident Reporting System data from the National Offender Management Service over a ten-year period (2004–2014) and limited, small-scale interviews with four custodial managers. Pat Carlen's work (2008) on imaginary penalities provides the theoretical framework for an assessment of the reporting, recording and initial response to sexual assaults in prisons in England and Wales. The article argues that the recording of sexual assaults became part of a response to new management systems that emphasised compliance, process and audit rather than realising safety in custody. Although the data shows substantial levels of initial activity among staff it is, in essence, practice without prospect. The article suggests that outcomes generally for sexual assaults in prisons in England and Wales are uncertain. Incident reporting has become a bureaucratic process ‘or paper shadow’, which Goffman described as showing ‘what has been done by whom, what is to be done, and who last had responsibility for it’ (Goffman 1961: 73).
Theorising political legitimisation: From stasis to processes
Authors: Dolan Paddy , Vertigans Stephen , Connolly John
Published: July 2023

Legitimacy remains a key concept in political sociology, and perhaps even more so in lay understandings of political processes and structures, as evidenced by conflict over territories and regimes around the world. However, the concept suffers from a rather static representation, and even when addressed in processual form, in terms of specific moments in the process, such as conditions favouring legitimacy or its effects. Building from an Eliasian perspective, we argue for a more processual concept of legitimisation to encompass the dynamic social networks (figurations) that constitute the more unintentional context for deliberate legitimation claims. As networks expand and intensify, processes of legitimisation incorporate changing and more diverse bases for legitimacy claims, as well as a greater variety of such claims and counterclaims. As the power relations between contending groups change, legitimation practices become part of the integrating functions of the state, shaping figurations and the social habitus.
Full-field displacement and strain reconstruction for beam structures based on the extended inverse finite element method
Authors: Zhu Haiming , Du Zunfeng , Tang Yougang
Published: July 2023

The inverse finite element method (iFEM) is a superior shape sensing methodology in the field of structural health monitoring. However, the standard iFEM for beams yields only displacements at iFEM nodes whose spatial resolution is limited by the number of strain measurements. This study presented an extended iFEM that renders high-quality full-field displacement and strain fields by interpolating the displacements and strains at all locations on the beam using elemental shape functions. A series of numerical studies were implemented to verify the extended iFEM algorithm for various sensor and mesh configurations under different boundary and loading conditions. It showed that the extended iFEM gives smoother and more accurate results using far fewer inverse elements than the standard iFEM.
Communication between grandparents and young grandchildren over distance: Establishing contact with constitutive nonhumans
Authors: Nouwen Marije , Beuthel Janne Mascha , Fuchsberger Verena , Zaman Bieke
Published: July 2023

Physical items are often taken for granted in mediated communication between grandparents (GP) and young grandchildren (GC). This article puts “constitutive nonhumans” at the center of inquiry to understand the potential of physical items and communication technologies to communicate over distance. The notion of phaticity operationalizes the role of constitutive nonhumans to establish and maintain contact over distance, which might have pleasurable or unpleasurable outcomes. A relational view on agency supports the entanglement of humans and nonhumans when they cooperate to communicate over distance. The article reports on a two-phase qualitative study that was conducted in two European countries with 10 GP (aged 60–75 years) and 10 GC (aged 6–11 years). The results identify how the entanglement between constitutive nonhumans conflates emotional connection and contact. Furthermore, the results suggest that the condition of familiarity can direct contact to pleasant or unpleasant outcomes that might differ across mediated and co-located communication.
Intraprocedural, Intra-Arterial CT Foot Perfusion Examination for Assessment of Endovascular Therapy in Patients With Critical Limb Ischemia: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Urlings Thijs , Gogna Apoorva , Burgmans Mark C. , Hiong Tay Kiang , Wei Too Chow , Patel Ankur , Ju Min Chan Shaun X. , Sum Leong , Venkatanarasimah Nanda , Soo Tan Bien , Chandramohan Sivanathan , Gutierrez Cornelio , Irani Farah
Published: July 2023

Background:

Current techniques to evaluate computed tomography (CT) foot perfusion in patients with critical limb ischemia use high contrast doses and cannot be used during endovascular procedures. CT perfusion of the foot with intra-arterial contrast injection during endovascular treatment in a hybrid angiography CT suite might solve these problems.

Purpose:

The main objective of this study was to evaluate whether intra-arterial CT foot perfusion using a hybrid CT angiosystem is feasible during endovascular treatment for critical limb ischemia.

Material and Methods:

This prospective pilot study investigated intraprocedural, intra-arterial CT perfusion of the foot using a hybrid CT angiosystem in 12 patients before and after endovascular treatment for critical limb ischemia. Time to peak (TTP) and arterial blood flow were measured before and after treatment and compared using a paired t test.

Results:

All 24 CT perfusion maps could be calculated adequately. The contrast volume used for one perfusion CT scan was 4.8 ml. The mean TTP before treatment was 12.8 seconds (standard deviation [SD] 2.8) and the mean TTP posttreatment was 8.4 seconds (SD 1.7), this difference being statistically significant ( p=.001). Tendency toward increased blood flow after treatment, 340 ml/min/100 ml (SD 174) vs 514 ml/min/100 ml (SD 366) was noticed ( p=.104). The mean effective radiation dose was 0.145 mSv per scan.

Conclusion:

Computed tomography perfusion of the foot with low contrast dose intra-arterial contrast injection during endovascular treatment in a hybrid angiography CT suite is a feasible technique.

Clinical Impact

Intra-arterial CT foot perfusion using a hybrid CT-angiography system is a feasible new technique during endovascular therapy for critical limb ischemia to assess the results of the treament. Future research is necessary in defining endpoints of endovascular treatment and establishing its role in limb salvage prognostication.
Experiences and perceptions of everyday decision-making in the lives of adults with intellectual disabilities, their care partners and direct care support workers
Authors: Casey Hannah , Trayer Áine , Desmond Deirdre , Coffey Laura
Published: July 2023

Background: Decisional support is important to people with intellectual disabilities. This review explores: i) how everyday decision-making is perceived and/or experienced by adults with intellectual disability, their care partners and direct care support workers (DCSWs); ii) techniques/approaches used to support everyday decision-making; and iii) barriers/facilitators encountered. Method: PRISMA systematic review methodology using PsycInfo, PubMED, Web of Science, CINAHL and Scopus. Results: Eighty-one papers were included [qualitative ( n = 69), quantitative ( n = 7), mixed methods ( n = 5)]. Adults with intellectual disability reported wanting to make decisions and needing support. Care partner support was affected by concerns about safety and decisional capacity. DCSWs reported difficulty balancing client decisions and care partner concerns when providing support. Supported Decision-Making (SDM) was identified as a key method of support. Barriers and facilitators were interconnected and impacted by stressors. Conclusion: This topic is under-researched and ill-defined. Supported decision-making is an increasingly popular approach whose application requires further exploration.
Updated survival outcomes with ivosidenib in patients with previously treated IDH1-mutated intrahepatic-cholangiocarcinoma: an Italian real-world experience
Authors: Rimini Margherita , Burgio Valentina , Antonuzzo Lorenzo , Rimassa Lorenza , Oneda Ester , Soldà Caterina , Cito Pasqua , Nasti Guglielmo , Lavacchi Daniele , Zanuso Valentina , Rizzato Mario Domenico , Zaniboni Alberto , Ottaiano Alessandro , Persano Mara , Cornara Noemi , Scartozzi Mario , Cascinu Stefano , Casadei-Gardini Andrea
Published: July 2023

Background:

The results of the phase III ClarIDHy trial led to the FDA approval of ivosidenib as a therapeutic option for patients with locally advanced or metastatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) harboring isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutations. We recently published the first data on the use of ivosidenib in a real-world setting.

Objective:

Here we report the updated survival results of 11 patients with locally advanced or metastatic IDH1-mutated CCA who received ivosidenib in clinical practice.

Patients and methods:

Patients treated with ivosidenib as second- and third-line treatments for advanced CCA have been collected with the aim to evaluate the survival outcomes. A molecular study has been performed by next generation sequencing essay.

Results:

Overall, 11 patients were included. After a median follow-up of 13.7 months, median progression-free survival from the start of treatment with ivosidenib was 4.4 months (95% CI: 2.0–5.8), whereas median overall survival was 15 months (95% CI: 6.6–15.0) regardless of treatment line. Disease control rate was 63%, with two patients achieving a partial response (18%). Eighteen percent of patients experienced at least one treatment-related adverse events (AEs), but no grade ⩾3 was reported. The most frequently observed grade 2 AEs were prolonged QT interval and hypomagnesemia. A molecular profiling was performed on 8 out of 11 patients, highlighting TP53, BAP1, CDKN2A, and CDKN2B as the most common co-altered genes in these patients.

Conclusion:

The present update confirms the results of our previous real-world experience on the use of ivosidenib in IDH1-mutated CCA. Real-world evidence on larger numbers of patients is needed to confirm our findings.
Restriction of oxycodone in the emergency department (ROXY-ED): A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mitra Biswadev , Roman Cristina , Wu Bertha , Luckhoff Carl , Goubrial Diana , Amos Timothy , Bannon-Murphy Holly , Huynh Ronald , Dooley Michael , Smit De Villiers , Cameron Peter A.
Published: July 2023

Background

The prescription of opioids in emergency care has been associated with harm, including overdose and dependence. The aim of this trial was to assess restriction of access to oxycodone (ROXY), in combination with education and guideline modifications, versus education and guideline modifications alone (standard care) to reduce oxycodone administration in the Emergency Department (ED).

Methods

An unblinded, active control, randomised controlled trial was conducted in an adult tertiary ED. Participants were patients aged 18–75 years who had analgesics administered in the ED. The primary intervention was ROXY, through removal of all oxycodone immediate release tablets from the ED imprest, with availability of a small supply after senior clinician approval. The intervention did not restrict prescription of discharge medications. The primary outcome measure was oxycodone administration rates. Secondary outcomes were administration rates of other analgesic medications, time to initial analgesics and oxycodone prescription on discharge.

Results

There were 2258 patients eligible for analysis. Oxycodone was administered to 80 (6.1%) patients in the ROXY group and 221 (23.3%) patients in the standard care group (relative risk (RR) 0.26; 95% CI: 0.21 to 0.33; p < .001). Tapentadol was prescribed more frequently in the ROXY group (RR 2.17; 95% CI: 1.71–2.74), while there were no differences in prescription of other analgesic medications. On discharge, significantly fewer patients were prescribed oxycodone (RR 0.51; 95% CI: 0.39–0.66) and no differences were observed in prescription rates of other analgesic medications. There was no difference in time to first analgesic (HR 0.94; 95% CI: 0.86–1.02).

Conclusions

Restricted access to oxycodone was superior to education and guideline modifications alone for reducing oxycodone use in the ED and reducing discharge prescriptions of oxycodone from the ED. The addition of simple restrictive interventions is recommended to enable rapid changes to clinician behaviour to reduce the potential harm associated with the prescribing of oxycodone in the ED.
Risk Factors and Outcomes for Preoperative Stiffness Requiring Intervention Before Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Lemme Nicholas J. , Yang Daniel S. , Talley-Bruns Rachel , Alsoof Daniel , Daniels Alan H. , Petit Logan , Fadale Paul D.
Published: July 2023

Background:

To date, there is a scarcity of literature related to the incidence of prolonged stiffness after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear that requires manipulation under anesthesia/lysis of adhesions (MUA/LOA) in the preoperative period before ACL reconstruction (ACLR) and how preoperative stiffness influences outcomes after ACLR.

Hypothesis:

Preoperative stiffness requiring MUA/LOA would increase the risk for postoperative stiffness, postoperative complications, and the need for subsequent procedures after ACLR.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The PearlDiver Research Program was used to identify patients who sustained an ACL tear and underwent ACLR using their respective International Classification of Diseases, 9th or 10th Revision, and Current Procedure Terminology (CPT) codes. Within this group, patients with preoperative stiffness were identified using the CPT codes for MUA or LOA. Significant risk factors for preoperative stiffness were identified through univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Outcomes after ACLR were analyzed between patients with and without preoperative stiffness using multivariate logistic regression, controlling for age, sex, and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index.

Results:

Between 2008 and 2018, 187,071 patients who underwent ACLR were identified. Of these patients, 241 (0.13%) underwent MUA/LOA before ACLR. Patients with preoperative stiffness began preoperative physical therapy significantly later than patients without stiffness ( P = .0478) and had a delay in time to ACLR ( P = .0003). Univariate logistic regression demonstrated that female sex, older age, anxiety/depression, obesity, and anticoagulation use were significant risk factors for preoperative stiffness ( P < .05 for all). After multivariate regression, anticoagulation use was the only independent risk factor deemed significant (odds ratio, 6.69 [95% CI, 4.01-10.51]; P < .001). Patients with preoperative stiffness were at an increased risk of experiencing postoperative stiffness, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, surgical-site infection, and septic knee arthritis after ACLR ( P < .05 for all).

Conclusion:

Although the risk of preoperative stiffness requiring an MUA/LOA before ACLR is low, the study findings indicated that patients with preoperative stiffness were at increased risk for postoperative complications compared with patients with no stiffness before ACLR.
What Makes a 5-Star Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeon? An Analysis of Positive Online Patient Reviews
Authors: Noel Morgan E. , Kuttner Nicolas P. , Lebaron Zachary , Richman Evan H. , Tummala Sailesh , Brinkman Joseph C. , Chhabra Anikar
Published: July 2023

Background:

The increased focus on patient satisfaction has led to growth in the use of physician rating websites.

Purpose:

To analyze the factors associated with online 5-star patient reviews for orthopaedic sports medicine surgeons.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Methods:

A total of 70 orthopaedic sports medicine surgeons were randomly selected from the AOSSM website. A search was performed for these surgeons on Yelp.com. All reviews other than 5 stars (of a possible 5 stars) were excluded from the study. Each review was categorized as referring to a surgical or nonsurgical aspect of care, and each comment within the review was categorized as being clinically or nonclinically related. Comments were further subcategorized by specific features such as bedside manner, clinical outcomes, and patient education. Categorical variables were analyzed using the chi-square test.

Results:

Overall, 400 five-star reviews were included in the study, comprising 1225 total positive comments. Of the 400 five-star reviews, 200 (50%) were from surgically treated patients, and 200 (50%) were from nonsurgically treated patients. Of the 1225 positive comments, 505 (41%) were clinically related, and 720 (59%) were nonclinical. The most common positive clinical comments were for clear treatment plans (191 reviews [48%]), good outcomes (173 reviews [43%]), and providing alternative treatment plans (55 reviews [14%]). The most common positive nonclinical comments were for good physician bedside manner (287 reviews [72%]), friendly/professional staff (194 reviews [49%]), and ease of scheduling (68 reviews [17%]).

Conclusion:

The majority of 5-star patient reviews left positive comments regarding nonclinical aspects of care such as physician bedside manner and friendly staff. The most common positive comments regarding clinical aspects concerned good outcomes and clear treatment plans. The overall most common positive comment, in both surgically and nonsurgically treated patients, referred to good bedside manner.
Robert R. King and Gi-Wook Shin (Eds.), The North Korean Conundrum: Balancing Human Rights and Nuclear Security
Authors: Chang Hyo Joon
Published: July 2023

Robert R. King and Gi-Wook Shin (Eds.), The North Korean Conundrum: Balancing Human Rights and Nuclear Security. Stanford: Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center, 2022, xviii + 250 pp. (paperback). ISBN: 978-1-931368-65-0.
Bridge-Like Lipid Transfer Proteins (BLTPs) in C. elegans: From Genetics to Structures and Functions
Authors: Pandey Taruna , Zhang Jianxiu , Wang Bingying , Ma Dengke K.
Published: July 2023

In eukaryotic cells, lipid transfer can occur at membrane contact sites (MCS) to facilitate the exchange of various lipids between two adjacent cellular organelle membranes. Lipid transfer proteins (LTPs), including shuttle LTP or bridge-like LTP (BLTP), transport lipids at MCS and are critical for diverse cellular processes, including lipid metabolism, membrane trafficking, and cell signaling. BLTPs (BLTP1-5, including the ATG2 and VPS13 family proteins) contain lipid-accommodating hydrophobic repeating β-groove (RBG) domains that allow the bulk transfer of lipids through MCS. Compared with vesicular lipid transfer and shuttle LTP, BLTPs have been only recently identified. Their functions and regulatory mechanisms are currently being unraveled in various model organisms and by diverse approaches. In this review, we summarize the genetics, structural features, and biological functions of BLTP in the genetically tractable model organism C. elegans. We discuss our recent studies and findings on C. elegans LPD-3, a prototypical megaprotein ortholog of BLTP1, with identified lipid transfer functions that are evolutionarily conserved in multicellular organisms and in human cells. We also highlight areas for future research of BLTP using C. elegans and complementary model systems and approaches. Given the emerging links of BLTP to several human diseases, including Parkinson's disease and Alkuraya-Kučinskas syndrome, discovering evolutionarily conserved roles of BLTPs and their mechanisms of regulation and action should contribute to new advances in basic cell biology and potential therapeutic development for related human disorders.
Headache frequency and neck pain are associated with trapezius muscle T2 in tension-type headache among young adults
Authors: Sollmann Nico , Schandelmaier Paul , Weidlich Dominik , Stelter Jonathan , Joseph Gabby B. , Börner Corinna , Schramm Severin , Beer Meinrad , Zimmer Claus , Landgraf Mirjam N. , Heinen Florian , Karampinos Dimitrios C. , Baum Thomas , Bonfert Michaela V.
Published: July 2023

Background

Tension-type headache (TTH) is the most prevalent primary headache disorder. Neck pain is commonly associated with primary headaches and the trigemino-cervical complex (TCC) refers to the convergence of trigeminal and cervical afferents onto neurons of the brainstem, thus conceptualizes the emergence of headache in relation to neck pain. However, no objective biomarkers exist for the myofascial involvement in primary headaches. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of the trapezius muscles in primary headache disorders by quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and to explore associations between muscle T2 values and headache frequency and neck pain.

Methods

This cohort study prospectively enrolled fifty participants (41 females, age range 20–31 years): 16 subjects with TTH only (TTH-), 12 with mixed-type TTH plus migraine (TTH+), and 22 healthy controls (HC). The participants completed fat-suppressed T2‐prepared three-dimensional turbo spin-echo MRI, a headache diary (over 30 days prior to MRI), manual palpation (two weeks before MRI), and evaluation of neck pain (on the day of MRI). The bilateral trapezius muscles were manually segmented, followed by muscle T2 extraction. Associations between muscle T2 and the presence of neck pain as well as the number of days with headache (considering the 30 days prior to imaging using the headache calendar) were analyzed using regression models (adjusting for age, sex, and body mass index).

Results

The TTH+ group demonstrated the highest muscle T2 values (right side: 31.4 ± 1.2 ms, left side: 31.4 ± 0.8 ms) as compared to the TTH- group or HC group (p = 0.011). Muscle T2 was significantly associated with the number of headache days (β-coefficient: 2.04, p = 0.04) and the presence of neck pain (odds ratio: 2.26, p = 0.04). With muscle T2 as the predictor, the area under the curve for differentiating between HC and the TTH+ group was 0.82.

Conclusions

Increased T2 of trapezius muscles may represent an objective imaging biomarker for myofascial involvement in primary headache disorders, which could help to improve patient phenotyping and therapy evaluation. Pathophysiologically, the increased muscle T2 values could be interpreted as a surrogate of neurogenic inflammation and peripheral sensitization within myofascial tissues.
Plasma vaspin levels and clinical outcome in incident peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Than Win Hlaing , Chan Gordon Chun-Kau , Kwan Bonnie Ching-Ha , Lai Ka-Bik , Chan Ronald Cheong-Kin , Teoh Jeromy Yuen Chun , Ng Jack Kit-Chung , Fung Winston Wing-Shing , Chow Kai-Ming , Cheng Phyllis Mei-Shan , Li Philip Kam-Tao , Szeto Cheuk-Chun
Published: July 2023

Background

Vaspin is an adipokine that regulates glucose and lipid metabolism. Plasma vaspin level is increased in chronic kidney disease but decreased in hemodialysis patients. However, plasma vaspin level in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, as well as its prognostic role, has not been studied.

Methods

We recruited 146 incident PD patients. Their baseline plasma vaspin levels, body anthropometry, the profile of insulin resistance, bioimpedance spectroscopy parameters, dialysis adequacy, and nutritional indices were measured. They were followed for up to 5 years for survival analysis.

Results

The average age was 58.4 ± 11.8 years; 96 patients (65.8%) were men, and 90 (61.6%) had diabetes. The median vaspin level was 0.18 ng/dL (interquartile range [IQR] 0.11 to 0.30 ng/dL). Plasma vaspin level did not have a significant correlation with adipose tissue mass or baseline insulin level. However, plasma vaspin level had a modest correlation with the change in insulin resistance, as represented by the HOMA-IR index, in non-diabetic patients (r = -0.358, p = 0.048). Although the plasma vaspin level quartile did not have a significant association with patient survival in the entire cohort, it had a significant interaction with diabetic status (p < 0.001). In nondiabetic patients, plasma vaspin level quartile was an independent predictor of patient survival after adjusting for confounding clinical factors (adjusted hazard ratio 2.038, 95% confidence interval 1.191–3.487, p = 0.009), while the result for diabetic patients was not significant.

Conclusions

Plasma vaspin level quartile had a significant association with patient survival in non-diabetic PD patients. Baseline plasma vaspin level also had a modest inverse correlation with the subsequent change in the severity of insulin resistance, but the exact biological role of vaspin deserves further studies.
Vasoreactivity of the optic nerve head, nailfold, and facial skin in response to cold provocation in normal-tension glaucoma patients
Authors: Takahashi Nana , Kiyota Naoki , Kunikata Hiroshi , Yamazaki Mai , Nishimura Takayuki , Shiga Yukihiro , Aoyagi Hisae , Shidomi Miwako , Tsuda Tomohiro , Ohtsuka Toshihiko , Tomida Takahiro , Nakazawa Toru
Published: July 2023

Background

The dysfunction of optic nerve head (ONH) hemodynamics has been suggested to be involved in the pathogenesis of normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). The aim of this study was to compare vasoreactivity in the ONH, nailfold, and facial skin in response to cold-water provocation in NTG patients and healthy controls.

Methods

We performed cold-water provocation in 14 eyes of 14 NTG patients and 15 eyes of 15 age-matched control subjects. Laser speckle flowgraphy-derived tissue-area mean blur rate (MT), skin blood flowmetry-derived pulse wave amplitude (PA), nailfold capillaroscopy-derived nailfold capillary diameter, and other clinical parameters were recorded at baseline and 4 and 6 min after the cold stimulus. We compared changes (as percentages) in these variables in the NTG and control subjects with a linear mixed-effects model and evaluated correlations between these changes with Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient.

Results

The interaction term between the NTG group (reference, control group) and the 4-min protocol step (reference, baseline) significantly affected the changes in MT, nailfold capillary diameter and PA (β = -9.51%, P = 0.017, β = -20.32%, P = 0.002; β =  + 18.06%, P = 0.017, respectively). The change in MT was positively correlated with the change in nailfold capillary diameter, and negatively correlated with the change in PA (r = 0.39, P = 0.036; r = -0.40, P = 0.031, respectively).

Conclusion

NTG patients showed abnormal vasoconstriction in the ONH and nailfold and vasodilation in the facial skin in response to cold-water provocation.
Evaluating the long-term portrayal of antibiotic resistance in major U.S. newspapers
Authors: Way Allison , Bond Maria , Nanna Bradley , Wright Erik S.
Published: July 2023

Background

Popular media play a critical role in informing the public about antibiotic resistance, which has remained a health concern for over seven decades. Media attention increases the notoriety of antibiotic resistance and shapes the public’s perception of its severity, causes, and solutions. Therefore, it is critical the media accurately portray scientific knowledge that may shape personal and policy responses to antibiotic resistance.

Methods

We analyzed articles from two major U.S. newspapers, The New York Times and Los Angeles Times, from 1940 to 2019 to assess trends in sentiment and lexicon surrounding antibiotic and antimicrobial resistance.

Results

We observed a gradual increase in the number of relevant articles about resistance, although far fewer than other topics with comparable mortality rates. We found a consistently threatening portrayal of antibiotic resistance as a crisis, reflected in the usage of terms such as “superbug” to refer to some pathogens. Governmental agencies responsible for determining antibiotic usage policies were infrequently mentioned in articles. Blame for resistance was almost exclusively attributed to inappropriate antibiotic use, mainly in animals, rather than appropriate uses of antibiotics.

Conclusions

Collectively, our results provide insights into how popular media can more accurately inform the public about antibiotic resistance. Potential changes include increasing news coverage, avoiding fear-mongering, and adequately conveying the multiple uses of antibiotics that can potentiate resistance.
Catheter-directed thrombolysis versus systemic anticoagulation in the treatment of symptomatic splanchnic venous thrombosis secondary to acute pancreatitis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang Zongwen , Gao Lin , Liu Zirui , Li Gang , Ye Bo , Zhou Jing , Ke Lu , Tong Zhihui , Li Weiqin
Published: July 2023

Background

Catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) has been an important therapy and seems effective in patients with splanchnic venous thrombosis (SVT) secondary to some diseases, but this intervention hasn’t been formally evaluated in the setting of acute pancreatitis (AP).

Methods

This was a retrospective study enrolled patients between January 2013 and December 2018. AP patients who developed SVT-induced symptoms, including intractable ascites and/or enteral nutrition intolerance, were included. Demographics, SVT associated parameters, clinical features and outcomes, long-term quality of life evaluated by using SF-36 questionnaire were compared between CDT group and systemic anticoagulation (SAC) group.

Results

6 patients underwent CDT and 17 received SAC. Patients in CDT group had a higher recanalization rate (100% versus 35.3%; p = 0.014) and shorter time to symptoms resolution (median 8 days versus. 31.5 days, p = 0.004). Mortality and length of hospital stay were comparable between two groups. The association analysis indicated that CDT use exerted a significantly beneficial effect on recanalization rate (risk ratio, 2.833; 95% CI, 1.489 to 5.393; p = 0.002) and time to symptoms resolution (mean difference, -33.333; 95% CI, -64.612 to -2.055; p = 0.038). No SVT-related symptoms recurrence was recorded in survivors at six-month follow-up. There was no statistical difference in either item of SF-36 questionnaire between two groups.

Conclusions

Compared with SAC, CDT may facilitate vascular recanalization and shorten symptom resolution for symptomatic SVT.
Management of penile post-circumcision ischemia by pentoxifylline infusion and hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Authors: Fahmy Mohamed A Baky , Sabra Tarek Abdelazeem , Abdelmohsen Sarah Magdy
Published: July 2023

Background

Post-circumcision penile ischemia is a devastating complication. We will present our experience in managing children with various forms of penile ischemia.

Materials and methods

This cohort prospective observational and interventional study was performed on all male children with post-circumcision penile ischemia between April 2017 and October 2021. A designed and approved protocol includes a combination of early pentoxifylline infusion, hyperbaric oxygen inhalation, early catheterization, and appropriate surgical debridement were applied for patients with deep ischemia 11/23, mainly the necrotic skin and subcutaneous tissues. Data of patient age, anesthesia method, monopolar diathermy usage, early presentation and positive wound culture were collected and analyzed statistically.

Results

During the study period 3,382 children were circumcised for non-medical reasons; 23 children were diagnosed with penile ischemia (0.7%), among other complications (9%). Most of the penile ischemia is associated with the use of monopolar diathermy (74%). The use of compressive wound dressing to control post-circumcision bleeding and infections is also responsible for ischemia in 52.2% and 43.5% of the cases. Inexperienced physicians were commonly responsible for ischemia (73.9%). Patients managed at first 24 h had better outcomes than those who were presented later (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

In children with post-circumcision penile ischemia, a combination of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and pentoxifylline is especially effective for patients with skin and facial necrosis, this management reduces penile tissue loss.
Vitamin D is inversely associated with Monocyte to HDL-C ratio among medical staff in Chengdu, China
Authors: Tang Lei , Zeng Honglian , Yang Bo , Dong Chaohui , Li Mao , Zhang Xiaoli , Pan Jia
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The primary objective of this study was to explore the association of vitamin D with the monocyte to HDL-C ratio (MHR) among medical staff in Chengdu, China.

Materials and methods

This cross-sectional study involved 538 medical staff, including 393 females and 145 males, and included data on gender, age, body mass index, and laboratory parameters (including complete blood count, vitamin D levels, lipid, etc.). According to serum 25 (OH)D < 20 ng/ml as vitamin D deficiency, subjects were divided into two groups based on serum 25 (OH)D levels: a vitamin D deficiency group with serum 25 (OH)D < 20 ng/ml and a vitamin D sufficiency group with serum 25 (OH)D ≥ 20 ng/ml. When considering vitamin D as a categorical variable, a multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the risk factors associated with vitamin D deficiency. On the other hand, when examining the factors influencing vitamin D levels as a continuous variable, a multiple linear regression model was utilized.

Results

The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 86.25% among all the participants. Males exhibited a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency compared to females (β=0.383, P = 0.026). Vitamin D deficiency risk decreased with age (β = 0.910, P < 0.001). Additionally, elevated values of MHR were associated with an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency (β = 1.530, P = 0.019). When treating vitamin D as a continuous variable, the results of multiple linear regression revealed that age (β = 0.342, P < 0.001), and TG (β=-1.327, P = 0.010) were independent influencing factors for vitamin D levels, indicating that vitamin D levels increase with age. A reverse association between MHR and vitamin D levels demonstrated a marginal trend toward significance (β=-0.581, P = 0.052).

Conclusions

Vitamin D is inversely associated with MHR among young medical staff in Chengdu, China.
“Family and society empowerment”: a content analysis of the needs of Iranian women who experience domestic violence during pregnancy: a qualitative study
Authors: Amel Barez Malikeh , Mirzaii Najmabadi Khadijeh , Latifnejad Roudsari Robab , Mosavi Bazaz Mojtaba , Babazadeh Raheleh
Published: July 2023

Background

Domestic violence threatens maternal physical, psychological and emotional safety. Victim/survivor pregnant women required interventions based on their actual needs with the purpose of reducing domestic violence and its negative consequences. The present study aimed to explore the experiences of victimized Iranian pregnant women and identify their neglected needs.

Methods

This qualitative descriptive study was performed from September 2019 to August 2021 in Mashhad, Iran. Semi-structured interviews with 14 women (8 pregnant and 6 after birth) who were the victims of domestic violence, and 11 key informants with various discipline specialties until the data saturation was achieved. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Qualitative data were analyzed based on the conventional content analysis adopted by Graneheim & Lundman.

Findings

The main theme emerging from the data analysis was “family and society empowerment” that implied the necessity of family, health system, legal, social and inter sectoral empowerment to reduce domestic violence during pregnancy. “Family and society empowerment” was comprised of three categories such as “need to empower couples to reduce domestic violence during pregnancy”, “demand for improved health care services”, and “need to strengthen inter-sectoral, legal and social supports”.

Conclusion

Victim/survivor pregnant women experienced individual, interpersonal and inter sectoral needs. Family and society empowerment constituted the actual needs of victimized pregnant women. Awareness of policymakers and health system managers of these needs could be the basis for designing a supportive care program according to victim/survivor women’s actual needs. In addition to the educational and skill empowerment of couples, it is essential that supportive organizations cooperate with each other to provide integrated and coordinated services to victim/survivor pregnant women and strengthen and facilitate their access to supportive resources.