bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medium-Term Failure of Descemet's Stripping Only and Fuchs’ Dystrophy With Pancorneal Guttae
Authors: Arsiwalla Tasneem , Trinh Tanya , Goolam Saadiah , Benito-Pascual Blanca , Devasahayam Raj N. , Moloney Gregory
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to report the medium-term outcome of our index case of Descemet stripping only (DSO) in the clinical setting of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy with pancorneal guttae.

Methods:

This was a retrospective case report.

Results:

A 44-year-old woman with bilateral Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy was referred for consideration of DSO. At initial slit-lamp examination, widespread guttae were observed with no clear zone visible. Confocal microscopic examination also failed to isolate a population of undisturbed endothelial cells. DSO with supplemental ripasudil was performed with corneal clearance achieved at 2.5 months. A stable result was obtained for 18 months with a subsequent slow decline in vision and return of diurnal fluctuation. At 3.5 years after DSO, DMEK was performed with resolution of symptoms.

Conclusions:

Medium-term failure in this clinical setting is further evidence that DSO is likely best offered to patients with central guttae but a clear corneal periphery, indicative of a healthy cell reservoir.
Infectious Keratitis Isolates and Susceptibility in Southern California
Authors: Gupta Kishan , Unhale Rutuja , Garner Omai B. , Deng Sophie X. , M Fung Simon S.
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine longitudinal trends in prevalence and resistance profiles for infectious keratitis at referral centers in Southern California.

Methods:

Cultured infectious keratitis cases from January 1, 2006, through December 31, 2009, and January 1, 2016, through December 31, 2019, at the University of California, Los Angeles, were evaluated. Outcome measures included microbial isolate prevalence and antibiotic/antifungal susceptibility and resistance patterns.

Results:

One hundred thirty-nine and 315 culture-positive isolates were obtained between 2006–2009 and 2016–2019, respectively. Gram-positive organisms accounted for 65% (2006–2009) and 74% (2016–2019) of bacterial isolates (P = 0.076). Staphylococcus infections, the most common gram-positive and bacterial isolate in both study epochs, demonstrated increased prevalence from 2006–2009 to 2016–2019 (41% vs. 53%, P = 0.019). Although coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CoNS) increased from 40% to 58% (P = 0.0012), the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was unchanged (28% vs. 28%, P = 0.99). Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the most common gram-negative organism, demonstrated decreased prevalence from 18% to 10% (P = 0.027). Candida species comprised 3.5% of culture-positive isolates in both epochs. All gram-positive isolates were susceptible to vancomycin, and all Staphylococcus isolates were susceptible to linezolid. Pseudomonas aeruginosa remained susceptible to tested fluoroquinolones (>93%) and aminoglycosides (100%) over time.

Conclusions:

In southern California between 2006 and 2019, there was a shift toward Staphylococcus species, with increased CoNS, decreased methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, and decreased prevalence of P. aeruginosa. Empiric therapy of vancomycin and a fluoroquinolone or aminoglycoside provides effective antibacterial coverage for predominant bacterial species when culture sensitivities are pending.
Fungal Infectious Interface Keratitis Presenting 2 Years After Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty
Authors: Vaidya Neel S. , Epstein Rachel H. , Majmudar Parag A.
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to describe infectious interface keratitis after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) more than 2 years after surgery.

Methods:

A case study.

Results:

In this study, we report a case of fungal infectious interface keratitis occurring 2 years after uncomplicated Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty. The donor corneal rim culture at the time of surgery grew a single colony of Candida albicans/dubliniensis, but the patient was not treated with antifungals at that time. At the onset of clinical infection, more than 2 years postoperatively, the patient was treated with systemic antifungals and adjuvant intrastromal amphotericin-B injection. The patient subsequently required penetrating keratoplasty with ultimately well-preserved visual acuity.

Conclusions:

Fungal infectious interface keratitis (IIK) is a rare complication associated with lamellar keratoplasty. Although most common in the early postoperative period, this complication can occur several years after successful transplantation. Management may require a combination of systemic and stromal antifungal therapy. However, some patients may eventually require penetrating keratoplasty for definitive treatment.
Corneal Biometric Parameters and Refractive Properties in Microcornea With Normal Axial Length
Authors: Jiang Zhaoxin , Wang Fangyu , Chen Zidong , Fan Yanmei , Xu Jiangang , Yu Minbin
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the features of and relationships among corneal diameter, central corneal thickness (CCT), endothelial cell density (ECD), and corneal refractive properties in cases of microcornea (MC) with normal axial length.

Methods:

We included 22 patients (35 eyes) with MC and cataracts and 41 patients (48 eyes) with isolated cataracts as age-matched controls. They were divided into patients with MC younger than 18 years (MC-child), patients with MC 18 years or older (MC-adult), children with congenital cataracts (CCs), and adults with senile cataracts (SCs). Corneal diameter, axial and anterior chamber length, and keratometry were measured; central corneal endothelial cell imaging was performed.

Results:

The mean horizontal corneal diameter was 7.71 ± 1.51 and 8.78 ± 0.52 mm in MC-child and MC-adult groups, respectively, and 11.89 ± 0.59 and 11.52 ± 2.42 mm in child and adult controls, respectively. The mean CCT was 641.26 ± 63.37 (MC-child) and 617.38 ± 45.40 mm (MC-adult), and 554.92 ± 34.64 (CC) and 551.58 ± 28.47 mm (SC). The mean ECD was 2898.47 ± 443.90 (MC-child) and 2825.81 ± 484.65 cells/mm2 (MC-adult), and 3155.13 ± 372.67 (CC) and 2749.33 ± 399.63 cells/mm2 (SC). The average keratometry was 44.22 ± 3.14 D (MC-child) and 43.86 ± 2.59 D (MC-adult), and 44.19 ± 1.44 D (CC) and 43.94 ± 1.34 D (SC).

Conclusions:

Patients with MC and normal axial length possess specific parameters, including significantly smaller corneal diameter and thicker CCT than the patients in the control groups. There were no significant differences in ECD and average keratometry. These parameters should be taken into account in the follow-up and treatment.
Evaluation and quality improvement of Doctor of Nursing Practice-Family Nurse Practitioner scholarly projects
Authors: Donovan Erin C. , Holvoet Janice A. , Hall Kathleen N.
Published: October 2021

Background:

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education's accreditation standards require nursing programs to demonstrate that students acquire doctoral-level knowledge and competencies beyond that expected at the baccalaureate and/or masters levels. The purpose of this article was to describe a quality improvement (QI) project for Doctor of Nursing Practice-Family Nurse Practitioner (NP) scholarly projects.

Local problem:

Nurse practitioner faculty inquired about whether students' scholarly projects were of the quality and rigor expected at the doctoral, rather than masters, level.

Methods:

This project was conducted as a QI initiative and was designated as such by the institutional review board. Methods were based on Deming Plan-Do-Study-Act QI process model.

Interventions:

Two doctorally prepared nursing faculty evaluated nine doctoral scholarly projects using the Roush DNP-PCAT instrument. This instrument evaluates 16 components, and key elements within each component, for completeness. The DNP-PCAT tool was evaluated for interrater reliability and content validity in an earlier study.

Results:

Strengths and weaknesses were identified using quantitative and qualitative data analyses. Floor effects were seen in strategic planning, ethical concerns, data collection, results, discussion, and limitations. Qualitative findings identified weaknesses across all 16 components. Findings were similar to the results reported in a prior study. Results were reviewed and action plans were developed to improve the rigor of scholarly projects.

Conclusions:

The nursing faculty plan to incorporate routine evaluation of scholarly projects into their program evaluation. Other NP programs may benefit from instituting a similar process.
Clinical efficacy of Danzhi Xiaoyao Powder in the treatment of post-stroke depression
Authors: Ding ChunQin , Xu MingYang , Gao Li , Wang XiaoRong , Xu Wu , Guo MinWang , Yao Jun
Published: October 2021

Background:

Depression is a common complication after stroke and is closely related to the poor prognosis of stroke. Antidepressants are the priority drug in the treatment of post-stroke depression (PSD), but there are dependence and adverse reactions. Danzhi Xiaoyao Powder has a good effect on depression without obvious adverse reactions. At present, there is a lack of rigorous randomized controlled trials to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Danzhi Xiaoyao Powder in the treatment of PSD.

Methods:

This is a prospective, randomized, double-blind, parallel controlled trial to explore the efficacy and safety of Danzhi Xiaoyao Powder in the treatment of PSD. The participants were randomly divided into treatment group and control group. The treatment group used Danzhi Xiaoyao Powder combined with escitalopram oxalate, and the control group used Danzhi Xiaoyao Powder simulant combined with citalopram oxalate. The two groups were both treated for 8 weeks and followed up for 3 months. Observational index includes: Total response rate, Hamilton depression scale, Barthel index, national institutes of health stroke scale, the modified Edinburgh-Scandinavian stroke scale, Incidence of adverse reactions. Finally, SPASS 22.0 software was used for statistical analysis of the data.

Discussion:

This study will evaluate the clinical efficacy of Danzhi Xiaoyao Powder in the treatment of PSD. The results of this study will provide reliable evidence for the clinical use of Xiaoyao Powder in the treatment of PSD.

Trial registration:

Open Science Framework Registration number: DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/5V926
Factors associated with liver cancer prognosis after hepatectomy
Authors: Yuan Yutao , Yang Fangnian , Wang Yuanyuan , Guo Yusong
Published: October 2021

This article was to investigate risk factors influencing liver cancer prognosis after hepatectomy.

Patients undergoing hepatectomy after being diagnosed with liver cancer in Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Xiamen University were collected in the retrospective cohort study between January 2012 and December 2017, and divided into disease progression and non-progression groups based on their prognostic status. Univariate analysis was performed on the patients’ baseline and laboratory test data, with multivariate logistic regression further conducted to investigate the independent risk factors for liver cancer progression after hepatectomy.

Among the 288 subjects, 159 had adverse outcomes (death or cancer recurrence). Hepatitis B and high levels of aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), direct bilirubin, and total bilirubin as well as low level of lymphocyte (LYM) were found to be associated with disease progression in the univariate analysis, and were introduced into the multivariate logistic regression. The results indicated that patients with high ALP level (odds ratio [OR] = 1.004, 95%CI: 1.002–1.007, P = .003) and with a history of hepatitis B (OR = 2.182, 95%CI: 1.165–4.086, P = .015) had a higher risk of liver cancer progression compared with those of lower ALP level and those without hepatitis B respectively, whereas the elevated level of LYM (OR = 0.710, 95%CI: 0.516–0.978, P = .034) had favorable progression.

The elevated ALP level and a history of hepatitis B may increase the risk of death or cancer recurrence, whereas high LYM level may decrease poor progression among liver cancer patients after hepatectomy. More importance should be attached to the improvement of the liver function and treatment of hepatitis B to enable a better outcome for the patients.
The validation of oxygen uptake efficiency slope in patients with stroke
Authors: Han Sheng-Chieh , Fu Tieh-Cheng , Hsu Chih-Chin , Huang Shu-Chun , Lin Hsin-Yu , Wang Jong-Shyan
Published: October 2021

To evaluate the real aerobic capacity is difficult due to impaired limbs function in stroke patients. Oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES) could represent the aerobic capacity in submaximal exercise test. Hence, we designed this observational study to investigate the application of the OUES for evaluating aerobic capacity in these patients.

Thirty-seven stroke patients were classified into 2 groups according to their Brunnstrom stage of affected lower limbs. Patients underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing to assess cardiorespiratory fitness. Minute ventilation and oxygen consumption were measured, and OUES was calculated, compared with healthy reference values, and correlated with the peak oxygen consumption. The predictive validity of submaximal OUES was derived.

Study participants’ OUES (median 566.2 [IQR, 470.0-711.6]) was 60% of healthy reference values and correlated positively with the peak oxygen consumption (r = 0.835) (P < .01). The predictive validity of oxygen uptake efficiency slope at 50% of maximal exercise duration (OUES50) and oxygen uptake efficiency slope at 75% of maximal exercise duration (OUES75) for oxygen uptake efficiency slope at 100% of maximal exercise duration (OUES100) was 0.877 and 0.973, respectively (P < .01). The OUES50, OUES75, and OUES100 groups were not significantly different; agreement of submaximal and maximal OUES values was strong.

OUES is a valuable submaximal index for evaluating cardiorespiratory fitness in stroke patients. Moderate-to-high concurrent validity of this parameter with peak oxygen consumption and the high predictive validity of OUES50 and OUES75 for OUES100 suggest maximal exercise testing in stroke patients who cannot reach maximal exercise is unnecessary.
Influence of ketamine versus fentanyl on pain relief for pediatric orthopedic emergencies
Authors: Qiu Jin , Xie Mian
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

The comparison of ketamine with fentanyl for pain control of pediatric orthopedic emergencies remains controversial. We conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the influence of ketamine versus fentanyl on pain management among pediatric orthopedic emergencies.

Methods:

We have searched PubMed, EMbase, Web of science, EBSCO, and Cochrane library databases through September 2020 for randomized controlled trials assessing the effect of ketamine versus fentanyl on pain management for pediatric orthopedic emergencies.

Results:

Five randomized controlled trials are included in the meta-analysis. Overall, compared with fentanyl for pediatric orthopedic emergencies, ketamine led to similar change in pain scores at 15 to 20 minutes (standard mean difference = -0.05; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.38 to 0.28; P = .77) and 30 minutes (standard mean difference = 0.11; 95% CI = -0.20 to 0.42; P = .49), as well as rescue analgesia (RR = 0.90; 95% CI = 0.54 to 1.51; P = .69), but revealed the increase in nausea/vomiting (RR = 2.65; 95% CI = 1.13 to 6.18; P = .02) and dizziness (RR = 3.83; 95% CI = 1.38 to 10.60; P = .01).

Conclusions:

Ketamine may be similar to fentanyl in terms of the analgesic efficacy for pediatric orthopedic emergencies.
Phase 1b dose-escalation, safety, and pharmacokinetic study of IC14, a monoclonal antibody against CD14, for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Henderson Robert D. , Agosti Jan M. , McCombe Pamela A. , Thorpe Kathryn , Heggie Susan , Heshmat Saman , Appleby Mark W. , Ziegelaar Brian W. , Crowe David T. , Redlich Garry L.
Published: October 2021

Background:

The primary objective was to demonstrate the safety and tolerability of monoclonal antibody against CD14 (IC14) (atibuclimab) in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. The secondary objectives were pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and preliminary effects on disease status and biomarkers.

Methods:

In this open-label, dose-escalation trial, IC14 was administered at 2 mg/kg intravenous (IV) followed by 1 mg/kg/d IV × 3 (n = 3) and in subsequent patients at 4 mg/kg IV followed by 2 mg/kg/d IV × 3 (n = 7) (NCT03487263). Disease status was measured using the Revised Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale, forced vital capacity, sniff nasal pressure, Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioural ALS Screen, and Revised ALS-Specific Quality-of-Life Score. Disease biomarkers included cerebrospinal fluid and serum levels of neurofilament light chain (NfL) and urinary p75 neurotrophin receptor.

Results:

IC14 was safe and well tolerated. No antidrug antibodies were detected. The drug target saturation of monocyte CD14 receptors was rapid and sustained through day 8. There was no significant change in Revised Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale, forced vital capacity, sniff nasal pressure, or Revised ALS-Specific Quality-of-Life Score following a single cycle of treatment. Cerebrospinal fluid NfL levels decreased in 6 of 9 patients sampled with declines of 15% to 40% between baseline (not significant [ns]) and day 8 in 3 patients. Serum NfL modestly decreased in 5 of 10 patients (ns) at day 8 and was sustained in 4 (4%-37%, ns) over 33 days of follow up.

Conclusion:

IC14 quickly and durably saturated its target in all patients. This study demonstrated safety and tolerability in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Even though only a single cycle of treatment was given, there were promising beneficial trends in the neurofilament light chain, a disease biomarker. The emerging understanding of the role of systemic inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases, and the potential for IC14 to serve as a safe, potent, and broad-spectrum inhibitor of immune dysregulation merits further clinical study.

Clinical Trial Registration:

NCT03487263
Bioinformatics analysis revealing prognostic significance of TIMP2 gene in breast cancer
Authors: Chen Wen-Quan , Yang Su-Jin , Xu Wen-Xiu , Deng Fei , Wang Dan-Dan , Tang Jin-Hai
Published: October 2021

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 (TIMP2) is a member of the TIMP gene family. Accumulated evidence indicates that TIMP2 plays a significant role in various tumor processes including cell growth, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. However, the expression patterns and exact roles of TIMP2 had not been elucidated in breast cancer. In our research, we evaluated the expression and prognostic value of TIMP2 in breast cancer through analyzing various databases including Oncomine, bc-GenExMiner, PrognoScan, UCSC Xena, Kaplan–Meier Plotter, and PPI network. The results showed that TIMP2 was down-regulated in various breast cancer subtypes. Additionally, TIMP2 was significantly associated with age, estrogen receptor status, basal-like group, triple-negative breast cancer, PAM50 subtypes, and RSSPC subtypes. Also, the expression of TIMP2 was related to overall survival with different clinical characteristics. We analyzed the co-expressed genes with TIMP2 and interaction information with other proteins. These results disclosed that TIMP2 might serve as a potential target and prognostic biomarker in breast cancer. However, additional research is required to demonstrate our findings and motivate the clinical importance of TIMP2 in breast cancer.
Radiological and clinical findings of idiopathic myointimal hyperplasia of mesenteric veins
Authors: Xie Huanhuan , Xu Xiaopei
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Idiopathic myointimal hyperplasia of mesenteric veins (IMHMV) is an uncommon cause of ischemic bowel disease resulting from the proliferation of smooth muscles in the venous intima. Delayed diagnosis could only be made following the surgical resection due to lack of imaging data, which may lead to bowel severe bleeding, perforation, necrosis, infection, or shock. In previous reports, few cases have provided the detailed pre-operative radiological characteristics of IMHMV. Herein, we are the first to provide the complete clinical course and comprehensive pre-operative radiological data of a 21-year-old female diagnosed with IMHMV.

Patient concerns:

A 21-year-old female was admitted to our hospital with bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Physical examination revealed tenderness localized to the left lower abdomen. The patient had no prior history of similar symptoms. A computed tomography scan was performed and showed diffuse wall thickening from the rectum to sigmoid colon with poor mural enhancement, multiple ulcers, fat stranding, and free fluid. The arterial phase images demonstrated many tortuous pericolic arteries and submucosal pseudoaneurysm.

Intervention:

Conservative treatment including empirical antibiotics, Mesalazine, and methylprednisolone sodium succinate were administrated to relief the symptoms. However, the diarrhea and abdominal pain worsened. An emergency surgery was arranged and total proctocolectomy with ileal pouchanal anastomosis with ileostomy was performed.

Diagnosis:

Macroscopic and histopathological examinations of the excised specimen showed ischemic colitis. Elastica van Gieson staining revealed extensive myointimal hyperplasia and confirmed the diagnosis of IMHMV.

Outcomes:

During the 2-year follow-up period, no additional medical management was needed. The patient was well and surveillance colonoscopy showed normal colon and anastomosis.

Conclusion:

Pre-operative computed tomography with imaging features including pronounced continuous concentric thickening colonic wall with poor enhancement and enlarged tortuous pericolic arteries could specifically facilitate the speedy diagnosis of IMHMV.
Effects of supervised exercise on aerobic capacity and quality of life in patients with chronic liver disease and patients who underwent liver transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Choo Yoo Jin , Cho Chan Woo , Chang Min Cheol
Published: October 2021

Chronic liver disease and liver transplantation are risk factors for poor physical health and quality of life. This meta-analysis aimed to examine whether supervised exercise improves the physical health and quality of life in patients with chronic liver disease and liver transplant. Articles were searched in four databases (MEDLINE, Cochrane, Embase, and the Web of Science) from 1 January 1990 to 6 July 2021. Studies that assessed the change in aerobic capacity and quality of life following supervised exercise in patients with chronic liver disease or in those who had undergone liver transplantation were included in this meta-analysis. The two independent reviewers extracted data and the methodological quality of the included studies was assessed by the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. The extracted data were statistically analyzed using review management software (RevMan 5.3). The meta-analysis included 11 studies, comprising 159 patients. We observed that aerobic capacity measured as VO2 peak and 6-min walking test improved in patients with chronic liver disease and liver transplant after supervised exercise. Among the parameters of Short-form-36 (SF-36) used for measuring the quality of life, only physical functioning improved after supervised exercise. The other parameters of SF-36 including role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health were not significantly improved after supervised exercise. Supervised exercise seems essential for patients with chronic liver disease and liver transplant. It was found to be helpful in enhancing the aerobic capacity and physical function in these patients.
Impact of long-acting therapies on the global HIV epidemic
Authors: Chandiwana Nomathemba C. , Serenata Celicia M. , Owen Andrew , Rannard Steve , Pérez Casas Carmen , Scott Cherise , Hill Andrew , Clayden Polly , Flexner Charles
Published: October 2021

Long-acting antiretroviral drugs have emerged as exciting treatment and preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) options for people with HIV and at risk of HIV. Long-acting regimens may improve dosing convenience, tolerability and cost compared with current daily-based oral therapy. They can also circumvent stigma associated with oral therapy for both treatment and PrEP, thereby improving adherence and outcomes. Yet, multiple challenges remain, many specific to low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), where the epidemic is most concentrated and HIV prevention and treatment options are limited. To optimize the use of long-acting formulations, key outstanding questions must be addressed. Uncertain costing, scale-up manufacturing, complex delivery systems and implementation challenges are potential barriers when considering the scalability of long-acting ARVs for global use.
Association of elevated plasma inflammatory biomarker levels with age-related macular degeneration but not cataract in persons with AIDS
Authors: Jabs Douglas A. , Van Natta Mark L. , Schneider Michael F. , Pak Jeong Won , Trang Garrett , Jones Norman G. , Milush Jeffrey , Hunt Peter W.
Published: October 2021

Objective:

To evaluate the relationship between plasma biomarkers of systemic inflammation and incident age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in persons with the AIDS.

Design:

Case–control study.

Methods:

Participants with incident intermediate-stage AMD (N = 26) in the Longitudinal Study of the Ocular Complications of AIDS (LSOCA) and controls (N = 60) without AMD. Cryopreserved baseline plasma specimens were assayed for biomarkers of inflammation, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-6, interferon-γ inducible protein (IP)-10, soluble CD14 (sCD14), soluble CD163 (sCD163), and intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP).

Results:

After adjustment for age, sex, and race/ethnicity, baseline mean ± standard deviation (SD) log10(mg/ml) plasma levels of CRP (0.52 ± 0.60 vs. 0.20 ± 0.43; P = 0.01) and mean ± SD log10(pg/ml) plasma levels of sCD14 (6.31 ± 0.11 vs. 6.23 ± 0.14; P = 0.008) were significantly higher among cases (incident AMD) than among controls (no AMD). There was a suggestion that mean ± SD baseline log10(pg/ml) plasma IL-6 levels (0.24 ± 0.33 vs. 0.11 ± 0.29; P = 0.10) might be higher among cases than controls. In a separate analysis of 548 participants in LSOCA, elevated baseline levels of plasma inflammatory biomarkers were associated with a greater risk of mortality but not with an increased risk of incident cataract.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that systemic inflammatory biomarkers are associated with incident AMD but not incident cataract in persons with AIDS, and that systemic inflammation may play a role in the pathogenesis of AMD.
Distinct effects of treatment with two different interferon-alpha subtypes on HIV-1-associated T-cell activation and dysfunction in humanized mice
Authors: Rout Saurav S. , Di Yunyun , Dittmer Ulf , Sutter Kathrin , Lavender Kerry J.
Published: October 2021

Objective:

Interferon-alpha (IFN-α) has been associated with excessive immune activation and dysfunction during HIV-1 infection. However, evidence suggests specific IFN-α subtypes may be beneficial rather than detrimental. This study compared the effects of treatment with two different IFN-α subtypes on indicators of T-cell activation and dysfunction during HIV-1 infection.

Design:

Humanized mice were infected with HIV-1 for 5 weeks and then treated with two different IFN-α subtypes for an additional 3 weeks. Splenic T cells were assessed both immediately posttreatment and again 6 weeks after treatment cessation.

Methods:

HIV-1 infected triple-knockout bone marrow-liver-thymus mice received daily intraperitoneal injections of either IFN-α14 or the clinically approved subtype, IFN-α2. T cells were analysed directly ex vivo for indicators of activation and dysfunction or stimulated to determine their proliferative capacity and ability to produce functional mediators.

Results:

Unlike IFN-α2, IFN-α14 treatment reduced viremia and resulted in less activated CD4+ T cells and a lower naïve to effector CD8+ T-cell ratio. Despite exhibiting a reduced proliferative response, the frequency of CD8+ T cells from IFN-α14 treated mice that produced functional mediators and expressed markers of dysfunction was more similar to healthy controls than untreated and IFN-α2 treated mice. Frequencies of exhaustion marker expression remained higher in untreated and IFN-α2 treated mice 6 weeks posttreatment despite similar viral loads between groups at this timepoint.

Conclusions:

Treatment with different IFN-α subtypes had distinctive effects on T cells during HIV-1 infection. IFN-α14 was associated with fewer indicators of T-cell dysfunction whereas IFN-α2 treatment had little impact.
Robotic vs. Open Approach for Older Adults Undergoing Retromuscular Ventral Hernia Repair
Authors: Collins Courtney E. , Renshaw Savannah , Huang Li-Ching , Phillips Sharon , Gure Tanya R. , Poulose Benjamin
Published: October 2021

Objective:

To describe 30-day outcomes including post-operative complications, readmissions, and quality of life score changes for older adults undergoing elective ventral hernia repair with retromuscular mesh placement and to compare rates of these outcomes for individuals undergoing robotic versus open approaches.

Summary of Background Data:

Over one third of patients presenting for elective ventral hernia repair are over the age of 65 and many have complex surgical histories that warrant intricate hernia repairs. Robotic ventral hernia repairs have gained increasing popularity in the US and in some studies have demonstrated decreased rates of postoperative complications, and less pain resulting in shorter hospital stays. However, the robotic approach has several downsides including prolonged operative times as well as the use of pneumo-peritoneum which may be risky in older patients.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective review of prospectively collected data in a national hernia specific registry (the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative) and identified patients over the age of 65 undergoing either an open or robotic retromuscular ventral hernia repair. After propensity score matching adjusting for demographic, clinical, and hernia related factors, logistic regression was used to compare 30-day complications, readmission, and quality of life (QoL) scores as captured by the HerQLes scale for patients undergoing each approach.

Results:

Of 2128 patients who met inclusion criteria, 1695 (79.7%) underwent open ventral hernia repair while 433 (20.3%) underwent robotic repair. After propensity score matching, there were 350 robotic cases and 759 open cases for analysis. Patients undergoing robotic repairs demonstrated significantly shorter length of stays (1 vs 4 days, P < 0.01) and had equivalent odds of both 30-day post-operative complications (odds ratio [OR] 1.15 95% confidence interval 0.92–1.44) and readmission (OR 1.09 95% confidence interval 0.74–1.6) compared to the open approach. QoL scores were similar between groups at 30 days but were slightly better for robotic patients at 1 year (92 vs 84 P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Robotic ventral hernia repair is an option for appropriately selected older patients undergoing retromuscular ventral hernia repair, demonstrating shorter hospital stays and equivalent rates of complications and readmissions in the post-operative period. However, more data is needed regarding QoL outcomes and long-term function, especially as it relates to recurrence rates, between the two approaches.
Gait Alterations in Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Pollet Joel , Buraschi Riccardo
Published: October 2021

Objective:

People with knee osteoarthritis suffer from many different symptoms and signs, including gait deviations. Studying in deep these alterations through precise instruments like optoelectronic systems allows clinicians to identify alterations on the different body planes during gait.

Methods:

This study highlights the different alterations found by literature, analyzing them according to the single gait phase.

Results:

The spatiotemporal parameters are among the most altered parameters; with stride length and speed reduction, on the kinetic and kinematic level, the knee range of motion is reduced while the moments affecting the knee, hip, and ankle joint are altered in the different phases of stance.

Conclusions:

Preliminary studies have been developed on the possible quantification of these alterations through scoring systems like the Gait Deviation Index. Further studies should use this scoring system also to solve the issue between the possible correlation of pain and gait deviation that literature is still trying to solve.
Application of a Multicomponent Exercise Program on Functional Capacity in Hip Fractures in Hospitalized Older Adults
Authors: Cuenca Zaldívar Juan Nicolas , Acevedo Alvaro Monroy , Caballero Nahúm María , Fernández-Carnero Josué
Published: October 2021

Background:

To evaluate the effects of multicomponent exercise program (Vivifrail) in patients with hip fracture after surgery over the gait pattern, balance, and muscle strength in the lower body.

Methods:

Thirty-seven patients operated of hip fracture were enrolled between 2017 and 2018.

Results:

There were significant improvements (P < .05) in the Short Physical Performance Battery, Tinetti balance, and gait scales, improving the independence measured with the Barthel Index and reducing the risk of falls.

Conclusions:

The multicomponent exercise improved with minimally obnoxious changes and the ability to balance and walk in older people who have undergone surgery for hip fracture, and also the number of responders who meet the minimally detectable changes is 70.27%.
Effect of a Proprioceptive Exercise Program on Force Sense for Carpometacarpal Joint Osteoarthritis
Authors: Cantero-Tellez Raquel , García-Orza Santiago , Sánchez Romero Eleuterio A. , Battaglino Andrea , Cruz-Gambero Leire , Cuadros-Romero Miguel
Published: October 2021

Background:

Force sense is described as the ability to reproduce a desired level of strength. An adequate sensation of the muscular thumb effort allows us to be able to carry out activities of daily life.

Objective:

The primary objective of the present study was to evaluate the impact of a proprioceptive exercise program on the force sense for carpometacarpal joint.

Methods:

A total of 17 elderly women with a diagnosis of carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis in their dominant hand participated in the study. Mean pinch force errors were measured at basal, 4, and 12 weeks of treatment.

Results:

Statistically significant differences in force sense testing scores after the proprioceptive exercise program were observed.

Conclusion:

The proprioceptive exercise program could improve precision on force sense of the thumb in patients with carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis.
Post-traumatic stress disorder and childhood emotional abuse are markers of subthreshold bipolarity and worse treatment outcome in major depressive disorder
Authors: Olgiati Paolo , Serretti Alessandro
Published: October 2021

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and childhood maltreatment (CMT: parental neglect; emotional, physical and sexual abuse) have been linked to bipolar disorder but they are also common in major depressive disorder (MDD). Our objective was to investigate their association with the bipolar spectrum and antidepressant treatment outcome in 482 outpatients with DSM-IV MDD treated in the Combining Medications to Enhance Depression Outcomes trial for 28 weeks Bipolar spectrum score included age of onset <21 years, subthreshold hypomania (a period of elated or irritable mood with at least two concurrent hypomanic symptoms, which did not fulfill DSM criteria for hypomanic/manic episode) and depressive mixed state (DMX). PTSD subjects (n = 107; 22%) had more severe depression (P < 0.0001), work and social impairment (P = 0.0031), comorbid anxiety disorders (P < 0.0001) and increased suicidality (P = 0.0003). Bipolar spectrum score was higher with PTSD comorbidity (P = 0.0063) and childhood emotional abuse (P = 0.0001). PTSD comorbidity was associated with residual suicidality (P = 0.0218) after 6 weeks of antidepressant use whereas childhood emotional abuse [odds ratio (OR), 1.01–2.22], subthreshold hypomania (OR, 1.04–4.09) and DMX (OR, 1.00–4.19) were predictors of mood switch. These results corroborate the role of PTSD and childhood emotional abuse as markers of bipolar spectrum and prognostic factors during antidepressant treatment.
Collateral positives of COVID-19 for culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Western Sydney, Australia
Authors: Cornell S , Ayre J , Mac O , Kapoor R , Pickles K , Batcup C , Dolan H , Bonner C , Cvejic E , Mouwad D , Zachariah D , Turalic U , Santalucia Y , Chen T , Vasic G , McCaffery K , Muscat DM
Published: October 2021

Issues addressed

To investigate whether culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Western Sydney have experienced any positive effects during the COVID-19 pandemic, and if so, what these were.

Methods

A cross–sectional survey with ten language groups was conducted from 21stMarch to 9thJuly 2021 in Sydney, Australia. Participants were recruited through bilingual multicultural health staff and health care interpreter service staff and answered a question, ‘In your life, have you experienced any positive effects from the COVID-19 pandemic?’ Differences were explored by demographic variables. Free–text responses were thematically coded using the Content Analysis method.

Results

707 people completed the survey, aged 18 to >70, 49% males and 51% females. Only 161 (23%) of those surveyed reported any positive impacts. There were significant differences in the proportion of those who reported positives based on age (p=0.004), gender (p=0.013), language (p=0.003), health literacy (p=0.014), English language proficiency (p=0.003), education (p=<0.001) and whether participants had children less than 18 years at home (p=0.001). Reporting of positive impacts ranged from 12% for people aged seventy years or older to 30% for the 30–49-year age group. Reporting of positive impacts for different language groups ranged from 9% to 42%. 18% of men reported positive impacts compared to 27% of women, and 18% of people with inadequate health literacy reported positive impacts compared to 26% with adequate health literacy. Content Analysis of open-ended responses showed that, of those that did report positives, the top themes were ‘Family time’ (44%), ‘Improved self-care’ (31%) and, ‘Greater connection with others’ (17%).

Conclusions

From 21st March to July 9th, 2021, few surveyed participants reported finding any positives because of the COVID–19 pandemic. This finding is in stark contrast to related research in Australia in a population dominated by adults with English as their first language, carried out in June 2020, in which many more people experienced positives.

So what

The needs of people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds must inform future responses to community crises to facilitate an equitable effect of any collateral positives that may arise.
Motor processivity and speed determine structure and dynamics of microtubule-motor assemblies
Authors: Banks Rachel A. , Galstyan Vahe , Lee Heun Jin , Hirokawa Soichi , Ierokomos Athena , Ross Tyler D , Bryant Zev , Thomson Matt , Phillips Robert
Published: October 2021

Active matter systems can generate highly ordered structures, avoiding equilibrium through the consumption of energy by individual constituents. How the microscopic parameters that characterize the active agents are translated to the observed mesoscopic properties of the assembly has remained an open question. These active systems are prevalent in living matter; for example, in cells, the cytoskeleton is organized into structures such as the mitotic spindle through the coordinated activity of many motor proteins walking along microtubules. Here, we investigate how the microscopic motor-microtubule interactions affect the coherent structures formed in a reconstituted motor-microtubule system. This question is of deeper evolutionary significance as we suspect motor and microtubule type contribute to the shape and size of resulting structures. We explore key parameters experimentally and theoretically, using a variety of motors with different speeds, processivities, and directionalities. We demonstrate that aster size depends on the motor used to create the aster, and develop a model for the distribution of motors and microtubules in steady-state asters that depends on parameters related to motor speed and processivity. Further, we show that network contraction rates scale linearly with the single-motor speed in quasi one-dimensional contraction experiments. In all, this theoretical and experimental work helps elucidate how microscopic motor properties are translated to the much larger scale of collective motor-microtubule assemblies.
Single-particle tracking of dynein identifies PP2A B55/SUR-6 as a cell cycle regulator of cortical force generation
Authors: Edwards Alan , Linehan John B. , Boudreau Vincent , Maddox Paul S.
Published: October 2021

Convergence and positioning of the pronuclei and mitotic spindle of many zygotes aids efficient division and is essential for early embryonic patterning. In the C. elegans zygote, interactions between microtubules and cortically anchored dynein are key to early development. However, how cortical microtubule pulling forces are controlled through the cell cycle is less well understood. We used single-molecule imaging and a windowed mean squared displacement analysis to uncover the behavior of dynein during cortical force generation, and provide a regulatory role for protein phosphatase PP2A-B55/SUR6 via NuMA-like protein LIN-5 in this process. Previous findings and our results suggest that PP2A regulates cortical microtubule pulling forces by increasing dynein binding and unbinding to the cortical force generation complex. Our data also suggests that cortical occupancy of dynein is abrogated to vary force generation. Our approach will be broadly applicable to classify the force generation behavior of single molecules in living organisms.
The role of competitive environment and strategy in the supply chain's agility, adaptability and alignment capabilities
Authors: Garrido-Vega Pedro , Sacristán-Díaz Macarena , Moyano-Fuentes José , Alfalla-Luque Rafaela
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper analyses the way that the industry's competitive environment and the company's strategy influence the implementation of the supply chain's (SC’s) triple-A capabilities (agility, adaptability and alignment). Two competitive environment variables are analysed: competitive intensity of the industry and complexity of the SC. Two opposing competitive strategies are also considered: cost and differentiation.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses have been tested using data gathered via a questionnaire given to 277 Spanish manufacturing companies, and structural equation modelling has been used for the analysis.

Findings

The results show that competitive intensity is the most influential factor followed by business strategy. SC complexity does not seem to affect agility. Moreover, although the competitive environment variables affect the business strategy, the latter has no mediating effects between the competitive environment and SC agility, adaptability and alignment capabilities.

Originality/value

This study presents new insights into the environmental and strategic drivers linked to the implementation of SC agility, adaptability and alignment capabilities and offers guidelines to managers involved in SC management.
The positive and negative impacts of social and personal self-categorizations on sport fans' experience
Authors: Toder Alon Anat , Shuv-Ami Avichai , Bareket-Bojmel Liad
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The current study postulated that fans' social identities (derived from the team sport clubs of which they perceive themselves to be members) coexist with their personal identities (derived from views of themselves as unique, individual sport fans). The study examined the relationship between identity salience and both positive and negative aspects of fans' attitudes, emotions and behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach

Seven hundred and twelve (712) Israeli professional football fans participated in this study. The study employed a survey drawn from an Internet panel with more than fifty thousand members.

Findings

Utilizing structural equation modelling (SEM), the authors demonstrated that while social identity salience is related to positive aspects of being a sport fan (love of a favourite team and loyalty), it is also related to negative aspects of being a sport fan (hatred and perceptions of the appropriateness of fan aggression). Personal identity salience was found to be related to the decrease in negative outcomes of being a fan (hatred and perceptions of the appropriateness of fan aggression).

Research limitations/implications

Marketers and sport organizations will benefit from stimulating sport fans' personal identity salience to mitigate possible negative consequences of team affiliation.

Originality/value

The current study expands upon past sport management studies by demonstrating the existence of relationships between sport fans' identity salience and their emotions, attitudes and behaviours. The identity salience of fans is relevant from both academic and applicative perspectives.
The economics of the Manila Galleon
Authors: Mejia Javier , Mejia Javier
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to offer a unified economic interpretation of the existing evidence on the Manila Galleon. It intends to be an introduction to the Manila Galleon for economists curious about long-term patterns in global trade, but who are not experts on economic history.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper jointly presents quantitative and qualitative data to analyze in a critical way the existing work on the Manila Galleon. It proposes a conceptual model from the world-systems approach to reflect on the impact of this trade route. Evidence from two case studies, New Granada and Korea, accompany the model.

Findings

The paper finds that the Manila Galleon was only possible because of the temporary coincidence of a quite singular set of international circumstances and favorable local market conditions. The paper also finds that, despite its large effects on the global integration of silver markets, the Manila Galleon was a profoundly asymmetric activity that brought minor consequences to most of the world.

Research limitations/implications

This paper shows the importance of additional studies providing systematic quantitative evidence on the Manila Galleon. The long tradition of an archival collection developed by historians offers a huge potential to this line of research. In addition, studies in regions different from Mexico, the Philippines, Spain and China would contribute to a better understanding of the Manila Galleon’s global consequences.

Practical implications

This paper provides a series of reflections useful to think about the future challenges of global trade. These challenges require understanding the transformations that will come from profound technological change, massive reconfigurations of the geopolitical order and transitions in the long-term cycles of commodities. Because of their rare occurrence, these are forces hardly visible in recent history, making it necessary for the existence of long-term points of reference such as the Manila Galleon.

Originality/value

This paper brings together widespread evidence on the Manila Galleon and provides a unified interpretation of it. This opens the door for audiences who are not experts on the economic history of the period to discuss the topic, allowing them to reflect on its lessons for the modern world.