bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active/Passive, ‘Diminished’/‘Beautiful’, ‘Light’ from Above and Below: Rereading Shekhinah’s Sexual Desire in Zohar al Shir ha-Shirim (Song of Songs)
Authors: Devine Luke
Published: May 2020

In Zohar al Shir ha-Shirim, the Zohar’s reading of Song of Songs, Shekhinah, echoing themes associated with the Shulamite of the biblical text, consistently initiates cosmic union. Sexual desire in the zoharic texts is a form of capital necessary to facilitate sefirotic intercourse, although scholarly readings of the zoharic corpus often identify Shekhinah as a passive receptacle. This, however, is only true if the endemic contradictions within the texts are glossed over. In Song of Songs, the Shulamite’s sexual ‘initiative’ is core. This was not lost on the author(s) of Zohar al Shir ha-Shirim, who, in struggling to explain Shekhinah’s sefirotic role in line with the erotics of Song of Songs, inescapably echoed the ‘depatriarchalizing’ themes of the biblical text. As this article demonstrates, in Zohar al Shir ha-Shirim, Shekhinah is active and repeatedly encourages and frustrates cosmic sexual intercourse. Zohar al Shir ha-Shirim shows that it is possible to reread Shekhinah’s role beyond the androcentrism of the authors as well as scholarly assumptions about her passivity.
IndiGo Airlines Brand Crisis: Assault on Passenger Goes Viral
Authors: Sharma Ruppal Walia
Published: May 2020

IndiGo Airlines, India’s largest domestic airlines, faced a serious backlash from customers when a video showing its staff manhandling a passenger went viral. The brand crisis gathered momentum as it was amplified across social media with customers expressing outrage and taking potshots at the Airline. IndiGo tried to control the damage by apologising and by sharing their version of the incident. Was their response adequate and was the timing right? How is the IndiGo brand likely to be impacted, and what steps can the Airline take to minimise damage to their brand? How can brands minimise damage in times of crisis, particularly in the context of social media?
Healing Interpersonal and Racial Trauma: Integrating Racial Socialization Into Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for African American Youth
Authors: Metzger Isha W. , Anderson Riana Elyse , Are Funlola , Ritchwood Tiarney
Published: May 2020

African American youth are more likely than their peers from other racial and ethnic groups to experience interpersonal traumas and traumatic racist and discriminatory encounters. Unfortunately, evidence-based trauma treatments have been less effective among these youth likely due to these treatments not being culturally tailored to address both interpersonal and racial trauma. In this article, we utilize the racial encounter coping appraisal and socialization theory to propose suggestions for adapting trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy—an evidence-based trauma treatment for children and adolescents—to include racial socialization or the process of transmitting culture, attitudes, and values to help youth overcome stressors associated with ethnic minority status. We conclude by discussing implications for the research and clinical community to best promote healing from both interpersonal and racial trauma for African American youth.
Effects of Far-Infrared Therapy on Foot Circulation Among Hemodialysis Patients With Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wang Yu-Hung , Cheng Fang-Yu , Chao Yann-Fen C. , Liu Chieh-Yu , Chang Yuanmay
Published: May 2020

Background:

Far-infrared radiation (FIR) therapy improves vessel dilation, circulation, vessel endothelial function, and angiogenesis and reduces atherosclerosis. However, evidence of FIR therapy’s effects on foot circulation among diabetic patients undergoing hemodialysis is scarce.

Aim:

To determine whether FIR therapy improves foot circulation in diabetic patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Design:

Quasi-experimental.

Methods:

In June to November 2017, diabetic patients undergoing hemodialysis ( N = 58) at a hemodialysis center in northern Taiwan were divided into two groups: the experimental group ( n = 31) received FIR therapy to the bilateral dorsalis pedis artery (40 min/session, 3 times/week for 6 months) and the control group ( n = 27) received conventional dialysis care. Paired t test, independent samples t test, two-proportion Z test, and repeated-measures analysis of covariance were performed to compare changes from baseline to the end of the 6-month intervention between the groups.

Results:

Significant positive effects of FIR therapy on temperature, pulse, and blood flow of the dorsalis pedis artery were observed. Sensitivity to pain, tactility, and pressure also improved significantly in the experimental group. The Edinburgh Claudication Questionnaire revealed that the experimental group had reductions in subjective experiences of soreness, tingling, and coldness in the feet.

Conclusion:

The findings of significant improvements to objective and subjective measures of blood flow and neural function in the experimental group indicate that FIR therapy improves blood circulation to the feet. This therapy thus has great potential to be an effective adjuvant treatment for patients with diabetes mellitus undergoing hemodialysis.
Hip muscle and joint contact forces before, 6 and 12 months after minimally invasive periacetabular osteotomy
Authors: Sørensen Henrik , Skalshøi Ole , Nielsen Dennis Brandborg , Jacobsen Julie Sandell , Søballe Kjeld , Mechlenburg Inger
Published: May 2020

Background:

Previous studies on different periacetabular osteotomy approaches for correction of hip dysplasia disagree on the time course of normalisation of muscle function postoperatively, some stating that especially hip flexor function is not fully normalised after 12 months.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate hip function during walking before, and 6 and 12 months after minimally invasive periacetabular osteotomy.

Methods:

Using conventional 3D inverse dynamics followed by static optimisation, we calculated hip net joint moment and angular impulse, as well as individual muscle forces and hip joint contact force, during walking for 32 patients with hip dysplasia and 32 matched controls.

Results:

None of the extensor and abductor measures were significantly different between controls and patients tested preoperatively, nor between any of the 3 time points patients were tested. For all of the flexor measures, patients’ preoperative values were lower than controls’, but had increased to values above the controls 6 months postoperatively.

Conclusion:

Hip muscle function during walking seemed normalised after 6 months after minimally invasive periacetabular osteotomy, while joint contact force did not fully normalise until 12 months postoperatively, perhaps because the hip joint structures need a longer time to heal than the muscles and a potential pain alleviating strategy was still in effect.

Trial registry:

Movement pattern in patients with hip dysplasia https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01344421 , NCT01344421.
Transnational hair (and turban): Sikh masculinity, embodied practices, and politics of representation in an era of global travel
Authors: Gill Harjant S
Published: May 2020

This article explores what it means to be a Punjabi Sikh man in an era of transnational migration. I look at how Sikh men from India access global migrant flows and negotiate the formal and informal sets of requirements for moving across national boundaries. Upon learning that different travel itineraries necessitate different embodied practices, what kinds of transformations do migrant men undergo? In anticipation of transnational travel, Sikh migrants often cut their hair. Yet, many continue wearing their turbans from time to time, especially when returning to their familial homes in rural Punjab. Detached from its traditional association with Kesh (unshorn hair), the turban as mobilized by Sikh migrant men no longer simply represents an emblem of Sikh identity. Rather it operates as a flexible symbol of cultural citizenship and gendered belonging, an integral part of the process by which these migrants reincorporate themselves into the landscape of their homeland.
Finding a path to anti-racism: Pivotal childhood experiences of White helping professionals
Authors: Bussey Sarah R
Published: May 2020

In a time of heightened bigotry and racialized violence, it is critical for social workers to engage in anti-racism practice. What leads White individuals to embrace this framework is less explored in scholarship. This paper presents data from an exploratory narrative inquiry with 10 White helping professionals in the Northeastern US who adopted an overtly anti-racism approach in their work. Narrative is a “cultural tool” through which individuals make sense of themselves and circumstances within context (Dauite et al., 2015: 48). Narrative inquiry involves uncovering the stories embedded within the overt stories told. With focus on pivotal childhood experiences, the themes taken up in this paper include the influence of family of origin values about race, exposure to racial difference, and experiences leading to the adoption of anti-racism tenets. The themes emerged as participants reflected on the self-discovery of racialization; initial exposure to racial inequity; and the impetus for them to become active in efforts to counter White supremacy. The paper aims to add to research on the engagement of White individuals in anti-racism efforts, an essential task for US social work as a predominantly White profession.
Hearing their voices: Youths’ experiences of unstable housing and homelessness post-care
Authors: Lalonde Jocelyne , Thomson Andrea E , Duncan Karen , Roger Kerstin
Published: May 2020

Youths who age out of care face adverse health outcomes and high rates of homelessness. This study used content analysis to explore: “What are the post-care housing experiences of youth who have transitioned from care through an independent support program?” Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 youths who had aged out of care. Six service providers who worked with youth in care in various capacities were also interviewed. Data analysis revealed themes including: the experience of unstable housing and homelessness, lack of formal supports, and youth leaving care then wishing they could return. Another theme to emerge, I take responsibility for where I am now, adds new information to the literature. The research findings support that child welfare services should place greater emphasis on developing youths’ life skills while they are in care. In addition, allowing youths the option to return to care after discharge may reduce experiences of unstable housing and homelessness post-care.
Academic Reality Check: A Fast, Free, Practical Tool for Freshmen Retention
Authors: Anderson Darcie L. , Hooks Tisha
Published: May 2020

With limited budgets and increasing enrollment demands, colleges need fast, free, and practical solutions supporting academic success and retention. The Academic Reality Check (ARC) tool helps to predict traditional freshmen awareness of their own academic expectations in college quickly, supporting the financial investment being made by all stakeholders. Similar inventories exist but they are costly, complicated, or both. The ARC tool is a valid, reliable, fast, free, and practical option. The ARC tool is available on a free website, so students, advisors, and faculty can access it easily. Students can complete the ARC tool in approximately 10 minutes and get an immediate academic success indicator score related to class attendance, attention, and note taking; time management and organization; study expectations and learning strategies; resources; and reading, writing, and homework.
Association Between Subjective Cognitive Decline and Social and Emotional Support in US Adults
Authors: Weng Xingran , George Daniel R. , Jiang Bibo , Wang Li
Published: May 2020

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) has been linked to Alzheimer’s Disease in the literature. However, little is known about whether SCD is associated with social/emotional support (SES). To investigate this association, this study utilized the 2015 and 2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data. A study population of 17206 participants aged 45 years and older who responded to both the Emotional Support and Life Satisfaction survey module and the Cognition Decline survey module were included. Of this study population, 11.22% had SCD, and 21.83% reported insufficient SES. A much higher percentage of those with insufficient SES experienced SCD compared to those with sufficient SES (21.15% vs 8.45%, P < .0001). Insufficient SES was significantly associated with SCD (odds ratio = 1.68, 95% confidence interval: 1.37-2.06), after controlling for other factors. Furthermore, this study found certain demographic groups such as female, white, or married groups were more likely to receive sufficient SES.
Radiation Exposure Associated With Computed Tomography in Childhood and the Subsequent Risk of Cancer: A Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Huang Ruixue , Liu Xiaodan , He Li , Zhou Ping-Kun
Published: May 2020

Background:

Computed tomography (CT) is used worldwide; however, recent studies suggest that CT radiation exposure during childhood may be a risk factor for cancer, although the data are inconsistent.

Methods:

A comprehensive search of electronic databases including PubMed, SpringerLink, Embase, Cochrane Library, Elsevier/ScienceDirect, Medline, Orbis, and Web of Science databases from January 1990 to November 2018 for observational epidemiologic studies reporting associations between radiation exposure from CT in childhood and the subsequent risk of cancer was conducted. A linear model was used to explore the dose–response relationship.

Results:

Seven studies with 1180 987 children enrolled were included. The risk of later cancer was 1.32-fold higher for children exposed to CT than those without exposure. Compared to those not exposed to pediatric CT, the relative risk (RRs) were larger for the higher doses but with wider CIs (RR for 5-10 mGy: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.69-1.12; RR for 10-15 mGy: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.86-1.18; RR for >15 mGy: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.97-1.30), the leukemia risk was higher in exposed children (RR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.10-1.36), and brain cancer risk was higher in exposed children (RR: 1.54, 95% CI: 0.84-2.45).

Conclusions:

Our analysis suggested that radiation exposure from CT during childhood is associated with a subsequently elevated risk of cancer. However, caution is needed when interpreting these results because of the heterogeneity among the studies. The findings should be confirmed in further studies with longer follow-up periods.
Reflective insulation assemblies for above-ceiling applications
Authors: Yam Kah Wei , Teh Khar San , Loi Patrick , Yarbrough David W
Published: May 2020

Previously published hot-box data have been used to construct equations for the thermal resistance of enclosed reflective air spaces (reflective insulation assemblies) for a wide range of temperatures, air gap dimensions, thermal emittances, and heat flow directions. The thermal resistances or R-values (RSI) calculated with the equations compare favorably with previously published thermal resistances. Significant differences from RSI values (m2 K/W) calculated using ISO 6946 were observed. Equations for calculating heat transfer coefficients for conduction–convection with constants for the heat flow directions up, 45° up, horizontal, 45° down, and down are contained in this article. The conduction–convection coefficient for planar air spaces oriented at any angle and heated above can be obtained by interpolation between heat flow down and heat flow at a downward angle of 45° or heat flow down at an angle of 45° and horizontal heat flow. The overall heat transfer coefficient is obtained by adding the thermal radiation contribution to the conduction–convection contribution. The RSI of enclosed reflective air spaces is the reciprocal of the overall heat transfer coefficient for the air space. This air space RSI is especially useful as input for the calculation of U-values for ceiling–roof assemblies located in hot climates.
Assessment of the Learning Curve for Virtual Surgical Planning in Orbital Fractures
Authors: Hsieh Tsung-yen , Said Mena , Dedhia Raj D. , Timbang Mary Roz , Steele Toby O. , Strong Edward Bradley
Published: May 2020

Virtual surgical planning (VSP) is becoming more widely used in maxillofacial reconstruction and can be surgeon-based or industry-based. Surgeon-based models require software training but allow surgeon autonomy. We evaluate the learning curve for VSP through a prospective cohort study in which planning times and accuracy of 7 otolaryngology residents with no prior VSP experience were compared to that of a proficient user after a single training protocol and 6 planning sessions for orbital fractures. The average planning time for the first session was 21 minutes 41 seconds ± 6 minutes 11 seconds with an average maximum deviation of 2.5 ± 0.8 mm in the lateral orbit and 2.3 ± 0.6 mm in the superior orbit. The average planning time for the last session was 13 minutes 5 seconds ± 10 minutes and 7 seconds with an average maximum deviation of 1.4 ± 0.5 mm in the lateral orbit and 1.3 ± 0.4 mm in the superior orbit. Novice users reduced planning time by 40% and decreased maximum deviation of plans by 44% and 43% in the lateral and superior orbits, respectively, approaching that of the proficient user. Virtual surgical planning has a quick learning curve and may be incorporated into surgical training.
Project Tango: Building a team, laying ground rules and managing communications with stakeholders
Authors: Hassandoust Farkhondeh , Díaz Andrade Antonio
Published: May 2020

Project management is a mix of both science and art. It is a science because project managers need to estimate and manage time and cost. It is an art because they should ensure that all team members are in sync, while stakeholders are efficiently projecting the point across without communication gaps. It has been long recognised that developing nontechnical (i.e. ‘soft’) skills of project managers and team members plays a critical role in the success of any project regardless of industry. Such skills reflect the leadership skills of project managers, which typically fall under the knowledge areas of project resource management, project communications management and project stakeholder management. Even though there are many strategies for improving soft skills in a project team, the challenges in implementing these strategies are not often discussed. Recognition of the significance of these aspects is not novel, yet most project management studies are focused on the technical (i.e. ‘hard’) skills of project management. This teaching case aims to bridge this gap by inviting students to reflect on how soft skills can make a difference throughout the project lifecycle. The case is about a mobile telecommunication network upgrade project in New Zealand. Despite being completed on time, on budget and at the agreed scope, the project was never implemented due to the acquisition of the client by a larger telecommunications company, which had other strategic priorities. The focus of the teaching case is on leadership skills and communication management in projects.
Teachers’ and Administrators’ Perceptions of Police-to-Student Encounters: The Impact of Student Race, Police Legitimacy, and Legal Authoritarianism
Authors: Watson Ar’Reon A. , Stevenson Margaret C.
Published: May 2020

The present study reflects an exploration of student race and attitudes toward the legal system as predictors of teachers’ and administrators’ support for police-to-student physical intervention. We experimentally manipulated student race (Black vs. White) in a hypothetical scenario depicting physical police intervention stemming from a student’s misbehavior. Teachers and administrators were significantly more punitive (i.e., requested juvenile detention and expulsion) toward the Black student than the White student. Moreover, endorsement of police legitimacy and legal authoritarianism (LA) predicted increased punitive attitudes toward the student, the belief that the student is dangerous, perceived likelihood that the student would recidivate, and perceived appropriateness of police officer behavior. Finally, the relationships between police legitimacy, LA, and perceived police behavior appropriateness were stronger when the student was portrayed as Black than White.
Associations between midlife chronic conditions and medication use with anxiety and depression: A cross-sectional analysis of the PREVENT Dementia study
Authors: Stirland Lucy E , Gregory Sarah , Russ Tom C , Ritchie Craig W , Muniz-Terrera Graciela
Published: May 2020

Background:

Multimorbidity including physical and mental illness is increasing in prevalence. We aimed to investigate the associations between physical conditions and medication use with anxiety and depression in midlife.

Methods:

We conducted an observational cross-sectional study of volunteers in the PREVENT Dementia study. Using logistic and linear regression, we investigated the association between increasing numbers of self-reported chronic physical conditions and medications with self-reported depression and anxiety disorder, and scores on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale and Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) state subtest.

Results:

Of the 210 participants, 148 (71%) were women and 188 (90%) Caucasian. The mean age was 52 (standard deviation (SD) = 5.5) years. The mean number of physical conditions was 2.2 (SD = 1.9) and medications 1.7 (SD = 2.2). Each additional physical condition was associated with increased odds of self-reported depression (odds ratio (OR) 1.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11–1.80; p = 0.004, adjusted for age and gender) and anxiety disorder (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.30–2.37; p < 0.001). Increasing medication use was associated with self-reported depression (adjusted OR per additional medication 1.35, 95% CI 1.08–1.71; p = 0.008) but not anxiety disorder. For each additional condition, CES-D scores increased by 0.72 (95% CI 0.11–1.33; p = 0.020) and for each extra medication, by 0.88 (95% CI 0.32–1.44; p = 0.002). There was no significant association between increasing conditions and medications with STAI scores. In models accounting for antidepressant use, all associations were attenuated.

Conclusions:

Having more physical conditions is associated with anxiety and depression in midlife, and taking more medications is associated with depression but not anxiety.
LncRNA SNHG7 promotes the proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma by miR-514a-5p/ELAVL1 axis
Authors: Hu Weiqun , Li Haolin , Wang Shaozhong
Published: May 2020

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), with distinct geographical distribution, has gathered public attention. Despite that radiotherapy and chemotherapy are applied to treat NPC, cell metastasis still cannot be avoided. Numerous works have elucidated that lncRNAs are essential players in the development of multiple cancers. LncRNA SNHG7 has been reported as a contributing factor in the occurrence of certain cancers, but its mechanism in NPC deserves further investigation. The purpose of the study is to figure out the role and molecular regulation mechanism of SNHG7 in NPC.

Methods

The role of SNHG7 in NPC was verified by CCK-8, colony formation, EdU staining, western blot and capase-3 assays. The interactions between SNHG7/ELAVL1 and miR-514a-5p were confirmed by RNA pull down, RT-qPCR, RIP and luciferase reporter assays.

Results

SNHG7 was upregulated in NPC cells, and absence of SNHG7 suppressed cell proliferation as well as promoted cell apoptosis in NPC. Furthermore, SNHG7 was confirmed to bind with miR-514a-5p and negatively modulate miR-514a-5p expression. Besides, miR-514a-5p was found to be able to bind with ELAVL1 and negatively regulate ELAVL1 mRNA and protein expressions. In the end, rescue assays demonstrated that the miR-514a-5p deficiency restored the NPC progression inhibited by SNHG7 silence, and ELAVL1 partly counteracted the restoration caused by miR-514a-5p inhibitor in HNE1 cells.

Conclusions

LncRNA SNHG7 promotes the proliferation and migration of nasopharyngeal carcinoma by miR-514a-5p/ ELAVL1 axis.
Cisplatin-based chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab for Chinese postmenopausal women with advanced cervical cancer: a retrospective observational study
Authors: He Xiaoli , Liu Jun , Xiao Li , Zhao Mingdong , Su Tingting , Liu Tiejian , Han Guowei , Wang Yue
Published: May 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of cisplatin-based chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab (BEV) in Chinese women with advanced cervical cancer (ACC).

Methods

For this observational study, we analysed the data of 316 Chinese women with ACC who were treated at the Henan provincial people’s hospital between Jan 1, 2014, and Dec 31, 2018, with cisplatin-based chemotherapy plus BEV (CB) or cisplatin-based chemotherapy alone (CA) until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or death. The co-primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS); the secondary endpoint was the occurrence of adverse events (AEs).

Results

A total of 264 patients with ACC were included in the assessment (CB, n = 130 and CA, n = 134). At a median follow-up of 38 months (IQR 36–40), the median OS in the CB cohort was significantly longer than that in the CA cohort (hazard ratio [HR] 1.21, 95% confidence interval[CI] 1.14–1.73; p = 0.002); additionally, the median PFS was 345 days (95% CI, 318–372) for CB and 261 days (95% CI, 165–357) for CA(HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.12–2.17; p = 0.000). Significant differences were noted between groups in terms of thrombosis/embolism, neutropenia, and febrile neutropenia.

Conclusions

In Chinese women with ACC, cisplatin-based chemotherapy plus BEV is associated with improved survival compared to cisplatin-based chemotherapy alone. This finding suggests a positive survival benefit of anti-angiogenesis therapy in this population.
A meta-analytic evaluation of the correlation between event-free survival and overall survival in randomized controlled trials of newly diagnosed Ewing sarcoma
Authors: Tanaka Kazuhiro , Kawano Masanori , Iwasaki Tatsuya , Itonaga Ichiro , Tsumura Hiroshi
Published: May 2020

Background

In randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of adjuvant treatment for malignant tumors, event-free survival (EFS) is considered the most acceptable surrogate for overall survival (OS). However, even though EFS has repeatedly been selected as a primary endpoint in RCTs of Ewing sarcoma (ES), the surrogacy of EFS for OS has not been investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between EFS and OS in RCTs of chemotherapy for newly diagnosed ES using a meta-analytic approach.

Methods

We identified seven RCTs of newly diagnosed ES through a systematic review, and a meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy and adverse events associated with chemotherapy for previously untreated ES. The correlation between EFS and OS was investigated using weighted linear regression analysis and Spearman rank correlation coefficients (ρ). The strength of the correlation was evaluated using the coefficient of determination (R2).

Results

A total of 3612 patients were randomly assigned to 17 treatment arms in the eligible RCTs. The meta-analysis revealed that the hazard ratios for OS and EFS showed significantly better results in the experimental treatment groups with increasing toxicities. The correlation between the hazard ratios for EFS and OS was good (R2 = 0.747, ρ = 0.683), and the correlation tended to be more favorable in cases of localized ES (R2 = 0.818, ρ = 0.929).

Conclusions

Overall, the trial-level correlation between EFS and OS was good for newly diagnosed ES and was very good in cases of localized disease. EFS may be a useful endpoint in RCTs of ES chemotherapy, and it is worth verifying using individual patient data.
The prevalence of domestic violence and its association with family factors: a cross-sectional study among pregnant women in urban communities of Hengyang City, China
Authors: Zheng Baohua , Zhu Xidi , Hu Zhao , Zhou Wensu , Yu Yunhan , Yin Shilin , Xu Huilan
Published: May 2020

Background

With the increased vulnerability during pregnancy, domestic violence (DV) is a serious threat to the physical and mental health of pregnant women, making it a significant issue in public health initiatives. In China, family is of great significance to pregnant women, but few scholars have focused specifically on the relationship between the family factors of pregnant women and DV. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and association between family factors and DV among women in late pregnancy, to provide evidence for the prevention of domestic violence during pregnancy.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from July–October, 2019 among pregnant women in urban communities of Hengyang City, Hunan Province, China. A total of 813 participants were included by a multi-staged cluster random sampling method. DV was assessed by the Abuse Assessment Screen Questionnaire (AAS). A multivariate binary logistic regression model was used to evaluate the relationship between family factors and DV.

Results

Ultimately, 127 (15.62%) participants were identified as victims of DV. After adjustment, the potential risk factors of DV were tensions between their mother-in-law and other family members (OR: 2.85; 95% CI: 1.29 to 6.30 and OR: 3.30; 95% CI: 1.57 to 6.93), medium household debt (OR: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.18 to 4.00), middle and low family APGARI (OR: 2.01; 95% CI: 1.30 to 3.13 and OR: 4.01; 95% CI: 2.09 to 7.69).

Conclusions

In summary, women in late pregnancy were at higher risk of DV in the family with tensions, medium household debt and family dysfunction, which may help medical personnel intervene in cases of domestic violence against pregnant women in a reasonable and timely manner.
The effect of prenatal counseling on breastfeeding self-efficacy and frequency of breastfeeding problems in mothers with previous unsuccessful breastfeeding: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Shafaei Fahimeh Sehhatie , Mirghafourvand Mojgan , Havizari Shiva
Published: May 2020

Background

Breastfeeding is one of the most important interfering factors in infants’ health. Monitoring mothers’ performance and providing them with the feedback helps to increase their self-efficacy, interest in learning, and level of performance. The present research evaluates the effect of prenatal counseling on the breastfeeding self-efficacy and frequency of breastfeeding problems in mothers with previous unsuccessful breastfeeding.

Methods

This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 108 pregnant women with unsuccessful breastfeeding in Tabriz health centers during 2017–2018. The participants were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group had four prenatal counseling sessions and the controls only received routine care. Then, the mothers who gave birth to their children received a counseling session up to 4 months after the delivery. The Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy (BSES) questionnaire and the frequency of breast feeding problems checklist on the 15th day, and 2nd and 4th month were completed both by the intervention and control groups.

Results

The mean (SD) of breastfeeding self-efficacy was 119.3 (10.5), 128.3 (8.3) and 133.8 (10.3) in the intervention group and 105.3 (16.1), 105.7 (19.7) and 109.4 (24.7) in the control group on the 15th day, 2nd and 4th month after the delivery, respectively. There was a significant difference in terms of breastfeeding self-efficacy between intervention and control group on the 15th day (p <  0.001), and 2nd (p <  0.001) and 4th (p <  0.001) month after the delivery. The frequency of breastfeeding problems on the 15th (p = 0.008), 2nd (p <  0.001) and 4th (p <  0.001) after the delivery was significantly different in most cases of the intervention group when compared to the controls.

Conclusion

The results indicated that prenatal counseling can increase mothers’ breastfeeding self-efficacy and solves most breastfeeding problems during postpartum period.

Trial registration

IRCT20100109003027N19.
Long non-coding RNA LINC01419 mediates miR-519a-3p/PDRG1 axis to promote cell progression in osteosarcoma
Authors: Gu Zhiqian , Wu Shaokun , Wang Jingnan , Zhao Shoujun
Published: May 2020

Background

Osteosarcoma (OS) is one of the most aggressive malignancies with mortality rate worldwide. Accumulating evidence has revealed that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert important functions in regulation of cancer initiation and progression. Recently, long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 1419 (LINC01419) has been reported to function as an oncogene in several cancers. However, its role in OS has not been explored yet.

Methods

qRT-PCR and western blot analyses were implemented to determine the expression of genes. The function of OS cells was assessed through colony formation, EdU, JC-1, TUNEL, transwell, and immunofluorescence (IF) assays. FISH and subcellular fractionation assays were conducted to estimate the localization of LINC01419 in OS cells. The interaction between genes was validated through luciferase reporter and RNA pull down assays.

Results

LINC01419 expression was elevated in OS tissues and cells. Functionally, LINC01419 accelerated OS cell proliferation, motility and EMT. In vivo assay showed that silencing LINC01419 hindered the growth of OS tumors. Mechanistic investigation unveiled that LINC01419 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to augment PDRG1 expression by miR-519a-3p sequestration. Rescue assays verified the oncogenic effect of LINC01419/miR-519a-3p/PDRG1 axis on OS development.

Conclusion

LINC01419 mediates malignant phenotypes in OS by targeting miR-519a-3p/PDRG1 axis.
Informing the measurement of wellbeing among young people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa for policy evaluations: a mixed-methods systematic review
Authors: Govindasamy Darshini , Seeley Janet , Olaru Ioana D. , Wiyeh Alison , Mathews Catherine , Ferrari Giulia
Published: May 2020

Young people living with HIV (YPLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are at high risk of having a poor quality of life. Addressing wellbeing explicitly within HIV/AIDS policies could assist mitigation efforts. However, guidance on wellbeing measures to evaluate policies for YPLHIV is scarce. The aims of this mixed-methods review were to identify: i) key dimensions of wellbeing and ii) wellbeing measures that align to these dimensions among YPLHIV (15–24 years) in SSA. We searched six social science and medical databases, including grey literature. We included studies that examined correlates and lived experiences of wellbeing, among YPLHIV in SSA, from January 2000 to May 2019. Two reviewers independently screened abstracts and full texts and assessed methodological quality of included articles. We analysed quantitative and qualitative data using descriptive and meta-ethnographic approaches, respectively. Thereafter, we integrated findings using a framework approach. We identified 6527 citations. Of these, 10 quantitative and 30 qualitative studies were included. Being male, higher educational status, less stigma and more social support were likely correlates of wellbeing. Themes that shaped experiences suggestive of wellbeing were: 1) acceptance and belonging— stigma, social support; 2) coping; 3) standard of living. Our final synthesis found that the following dimensions potentially characterise wellbeing: self-acceptance, belonging, autonomy; positive relations, environmental mastery, purpose in life. Wellbeing for YPLHIV is multi-dimensional and relational. Relevant measures include the Personal Wellbeing Index, Ryff’s Psychological Wellbeing Scale and Mental Health Continuum Short Form. However, psychometric evaluations of these scales among YPLHIV in SSA are needed.
Is the Patient Activation Measure a valid measure of osteoarthritis self-management attitudes and capabilities? Results of a Rasch analysis
Authors: Eyles J. P. , Ferreira M. , Mills K. , Lucas B. R. , Robbins S. R. , Williams M. , Lee H. , Appleton S. , Hunter D. J.
Published: May 2020

Background

The Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13) was developed using Rasch analysis to assess knowledge, skills and confidence in the management of one’s health. Previous studies report positive relationships between PAM-13 scores, self-management behaviours and longitudinal health outcomes in adults with chronic disease. There is little extant measurement property evidence for the use of PAM-13 in specific osteoarthritis (OA) populations. This study tested measurement properties of the PAM-13 in people living with hip and knee OA.

Methods

Item response frequency analysis was conducted. Rasch analysis evaluated the fit of the PAM-13 data to the Rasch model. Model-data fit was evaluated using infit and outfit statistics; person/item reliability and person separation indices were computed. Unidimensionality was evaluated using Principal Components Analysis of Rasch residuals and the data were assessed for item redundancy. Differential Item Functioning (DIF) examined bias in respondent subgroups and correlations tested relationships between PAM-13 and other patient-reported outcomes.

Results

Two-hundred-and-seventeen PAM-13 surveys were completed; there were no missing responses, floor or ceiling effects. Person and item reliability were acceptable (0.98 and 0.87 respectively) with good separation (person separation index 2.58). Unidimensionality was evaluated, with 49.4% of the variance explained by the first eigenvector. There was evidence of potential local response-dependence. The Rasch fit statistics were acceptable (except for item-2). There were some issues identified with targeting of the PAM-13 items to people with higher ability and the item difficulty order was different to that proposed in original cohorts. Significant DIF was identified for sex and educational level for a small number of items. PAM-13 scores were moderately correlated with depressive symptoms on the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale and Assessment of Quality of Life-6D. There were small correlations between PAM-13 and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score pain and activities of daily living scores.

Conclusions

This study provides some evidence of adequate person and item reliability, unidimensionality, and construct validity to support the use of PAM-13 to measure patient activation in people living with hip and knee OA. Possible limitations regarding targeting, different item difficulty order, DIF and local response dependence should be investigated in future research.
Comparison of breast cancer patients who underwent partial mastectomy (PM) with mini latissimus dorsi flap (MLDF) and subcutaneous mastectomy with implant (M + I) regarding quality of life (QOL), cosmetic outcome and survival rates
Authors: Ozmen Vahit , Ilgun Serkan , Celet Ozden Burcu , Ozturk Alper , Aktepe Fatma , Agacayak Filiz , Elbuken Filiz , Alco Gul , Ordu Cetin , Erdogan Iyigun Zeynep , Emre Hocaoglu , Pilancı Kezban , Soybir Gursel , Ozmen Tolga
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The latissimus dorsi muscle has long been used in breast cancer (BC) patients for reconstruction. This study aimed to compare early stage BC patients who had partial mastectomy (PM) with mini latissimus dorsi flap (MLDF) and subcutaneous mastectomy with implant (MI) with respect to quality of life (QoL), cosmetic outcome (CO), and survival rates.

Patients and methods

The data of patients who underwent PM + MLDF (Group 1) and M + I (Group 2) between January 2010 and January 2018 were evaluated. Both groups were compared in terms of demographics, clinical and pathological characteristics, surgical morbidity, survival, quality of life, and cosmetic results. The EORTC-QLQ C30 and EORTC-QLO BR23 questionnaires and the Japanese Breast Cancer Society (JBCS) Cosmetic Evaluation Scale were used to assess the quality of life and the cosmetic outcome, respectively.

Results

A total of 317 patients were included in the study, 242 (76.3%) of them in group 1 and 75 (23.6%) of them in group 2. Median follow-up time was 56 (14–116) months. There were no differences identified between the groups in terms of tumor histology, hormonal receptors and HER-2 positivity, surgical morbidity, and 5-year overall and disease-free survival. Group 2 patients were significantly younger than group 1 (p = 0.003). The multifocality/multicentricity rate was higher in group 2 (p ≤ 0.001), whereas tumor size (p = 0.009), body mass index (BMI, p = 0.006), histological grade (p ≤ 0.001), lymph node positivity (p = 0.002), axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) rate (p = 0.005), and presence of lympho-vascular invasion (LVI, p = 0.013) were significantly higher in group 1. When the quality of life was assessed by using the EORTC QLQ C30 and BR23 questionnaires, it was seen that the body image perception (p < 0.001) and nausea/vomiting score (p = 0.024) were significantly better in PM + MLDF group whereas physical function score was significantly better in M + I group (p = 0.012). When both groups were examined in terms of cosmesis with JBCS Cosmetic Evaluation Scale, good cosmetic evaluation score was significantly higher in patients in MLDF group (p = 0.01).

Discussion

The results of this study indicate that in comparison to M + I procedure, the PM + MLDF procedure provides significantly superior results in terms of body image and cosmetic result with similar morbidity and oncologic outcomes. In selected patients with small breasts and a high tumor/breast ratio, PM + MLDF may be an alternative to subcutaneous mastectomy and implant.
First report of Lihan Tick virus (Phlebovirus, Phenuiviridae) in ticks, Colombia
Authors: López Yesica , Miranda Jorge , Mattar Salim , Gonzalez Marco , Rovnak Joel
Published: May 2020

Background

Tick-borne phenuivirus (TBPVs) comprise human and animal viruses that can cause a variety of clinical syndromes ranging from self-limiting febrile illness to fatal haemorrhagic fevers.

Objective

Detect Phlebovirus (Family Phenuiviridae) in ticks collected from domestic animals in Córdoba, Colombia.

Methods

We collected 2365 ticks from domestic animals in three municipalities of the Department of Cordoba, Colombia in 2016. Ticks were identified and pooled by species for RNA extraction. A nested real-time PCR with specific primers for Phlebovirus and a specific probe for Heartland virus (HRTV) formerly a Phlebovirus, now a Banyangvirus were performed. Also, a conventional nested PCR, with the same specific primers was used to detect other Phleboviruses, with positive reactions indicated by an amplified cDNA fragment of approximately 244 bp determined by gel electrophoresis. These bands were gel-purified and sequenced by the Sanger method.

Results

Using real-time RT-PCR, no positive results for HRTV were found. However, using conventional nested PCR 2.2% (5/229 pools) yielded a product of 244 bp. One positive sample was detected in a pool of Dermacentor nitens ticks collected from a horse, and the four remaining positive pools were from Rhipicephalus microplus collected from cattle. The five positive nucleotide sequences had identities of 93 to 96% compared to a section of the L-segment of Lihan Tick virus, a Phlebovirus originally detected in R. microplus ticks in China. The strongest identity (96–99%) was with Lihan Tick virus detected in R. microplus ticks from Brazil.

Conclusions

This is the first report of viral detection in ticks in Colombia. We detected a Colombian strain of Lihan Tick virus. We recommend expanding the sampling area and carrying out more eco-epidemiological studies related to epidemiological surveillance of viruses on ticks in Colombia.
Performance of pre-hospital evaluations in ruling out invasive chest stab wounds
Authors: Augustin Pascal , Guivarch Elise , Pellenc Quentin , Castier Yves , Boudinet Sandrine , Tanaka Sebastien , Montravers Philippe , Tran-Dinh Alexy
Published: May 2020

Background

Some guidelines advocate for managing patients with penetrating thoracic wounds in trauma centres with cardiothoracic surgery. This systematic approach is questionable. Only 15% of these patients require surgery. It is known that clinical examination fails to detect hemopneumothorax in penetrating trauma. However, no studies have evaluated the combined diagnostic performance of vital signs and the clinical evaluation of wounds. The clinical characteristics of wounds have not been investigated. We aimed to evaluate the ability of combinations of pre-hospital signs to rule out invasive chest stab trauma.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study. All consecutive adult patients hospitalized in the perioperative acute care unit of a tertiary university hospital were included. Injury diagnoses were provided by exploratory surgery and imaging tests. Patients with a final diagnosis of invasive wounds (IWs) and patients with only superficial wounds were compared. Data regarding management and outcome were analysed.

Results

A total of 153 patients were included. After imaging or surgery, 58 (38%) patients were diagnosed with only superficial wounds, and 95 (62%) were diagnosed with thoracic or abdominal IWs. The false-negative rate of pre-hospital evaluations in the diagnosis of IWs was 42% [31–51]IQR25–75. In stable patients, pre-hospital data could not rule out IWs, with a negative predictive value of 58% and a positive predictive value of 70%. Twenty-nine (19%) patients required early emergent cardiothoracic surgery. Among these patients, 8 (28%) had no evidence of IWs in the pre-hospital period. Among the 59 patients without pre-hospital signs of IWs, 19 (33%) underwent at least one emergent procedure.

Conclusions

The combination of pre-hospital vital signs, visual evaluation of wounds, and physical examination failed to rule out IWs in patients with chest stab wounds. This implies that caution is needed in triage decision-making.
Prevalence of adolescent deliveries and its complications in Cameroon: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Njim Tsi , Tanyitiku Bayee Swiri , Babila Carlson Sama
Published: May 2020

Background

Adolescent deliveries (10–19 years) carry a high risk of adverse outcomes due to the biological and physiological immaturity of these mothers. They pose a significant health burden in Cameroon, as it is reported that a high proportion of women attending delivery services are teenagers. We therefore sought to systematically assess the prevalence of adolescent deliveries in the country and its maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Methods

This was a systematic review of literature and a meta-analysis. We searched MEDLINE, CINAHL and Global Health online databases for all studies that reported the proportion of adolescent women who presented for delivery in health facilities in Cameroon. All observational studies published up to 10th July 2019, were included.

Results

A total of 47 articles were identified by the search. After removal of duplicates and screening of the titles and abstracts, 11 eligible studies were retained with ten articles meeting the inclusion criteria. These ten studies finally retained reported on nine different cohorts with a total of 99,653 women. The pooled prevalence of adolescent deliveries from the nine cohorts in Cameroon was 14.4% (95% CI: 10.7–18.6%), the prevalence for early adolescent deliveries was 2.8% (95% CI: 0.4–7.2%), meanwhile that for late adolescent deliveries was 12.5% (95% CI: 6.7–19.8%). The prevalence of adolescent deliveries in urban areas – 13.1% (95% CI: 7.8–19.6%) was similar to that in semi-urban areas– 14.1% (95% CI: 6.7–23.5%). Adolescents were more likely than adults (> 19 years) to have low birth weight babies (OR: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.6, 2.1); babies born with asphyxia (OR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.3, 2.1); babies born before term (OR: 1.5; 95% CI: 1.1, 1.9) and babies who die in the neonatal period (OR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.2, 3.8).

Conclusion

The prevalence of adolescent deliveries in Cameroon is high. Implementation of adolescent-friendly policies is necessary to reduce the proportion of adolescents who become pregnant in Cameroon.