bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WHAT IS RADICAL? BÜCHNER AND BRECHT READ LENZ
Authors: Curran Veronica Rose
Published: December 2022

This article asks why the radical authors Georg Büchner (1813–37) and Bertolt Brecht (1898–1956) were particularly interested in the life and works of Jakob Michael Reinhold Lenz (1751–92). The enquiry proceeds by reading Lenz's theoretical and literary works, such as his treatise Anmerkungen übers Theater (1774) and his plays Die Soldaten (1776) and Der Hofmeister (1774), through the later authors’ various writings. This article particularly focuses on all three authors’ use and analysis of observational writing for a radical, social purpose. It begins with a discussion of Lenz's stance on the imitation of nature in his writings on the theatre and how this affects his social commentary through realistic social depiction. This is followed by an examination of Büchner's use of Lenz's writings, particularly in the ‘Kunstgespräch’ section of the narrative fragment Lenz and in his play Woyzeck (1836), and then by Brecht's theoretical writing on the ‘realistic style’ (‘realistische Schreibweise’) in the history of German dramaturgy and his new approach in the adaptation of Der Hofmeister. The article concludes that Lenz's realistic style was taken up by his successors but that, especially in his depiction of and commentary on individuality, it maintains unique value in itself.
Significant association between HLA‐B*35:01 and onset of drug‐induced liver injury caused by Kampo medicines in Japanese patients
Authors: Nakamura Ryosuke , Arakawa Noriaki , Tanaka Yoichi , Uchiyama Nahoko , Sekine Akihiro , Mashimo Yoichi , Tsuji Keiji , Kagawa Tatehiro , Sato Ken , Watanabe Masaaki , Aiso Mitsuhiko , Hiasa Yoichi , Takei Yoshiyuki , Ohira Hiromasa , Ayada Minoru , Tsukagoshi Eri , Maekawa Keiko , Tohkin Masahiro , Saito Yoshiro , Takikawa Hajime
Published: December 2022

Aim

Drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) is a severe and life‐threatening immune‐mediated adverse effect, occurring rarely among treated patients. We examined genomic biomarkers in the Japanese population that predict the onset of DILI after using a certain class of drugs, such as Kampo products (Japanese traditional medicines).

Methods

A total of 287 patients diagnosed as DILI by hepatology specialists were recruited after written informed consent was obtained. A genome‐wide association analysis and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing in four digits were performed.

Results

We found a significant association (p = 9.41 × 10−10) of rs146644517 (G > A) with Kampo product–related DILI. As this polymorphism is located in the HLA region, we evaluated the association of HLA types and found that 12 (63.2%) of 19 Kampo‐DILI patients contained HLA‐B*35:01, whereas only 15.2% were positive for this HLA among healthy volunteers. The odds ratio was 9.56 (95% confidence interval 3.75–24.46; p = 2.98 × 10−6, corrected p = 4.17 × 10−5), and it increased to 13.55 compared with the DILI patients not exposed to Kampo products. The individual crude drug components in the Kampo products, including Scutellaria root (ougon in Japanese), rhubarb (daiou), Gardenia fruit (sanshishi), and Glycyrrhiza (kanzou), were significantly associated with HLA‐B*35:01.

Conclusions

HLA‐B*35:01 is a genetic risk factor and a potential predictive biomarker for Kampo‐induced DILI in the Japanese population.
Long‐term oxidation and ablation behavior of Cf/ZrB2–SiC composites at 1500, 2000, and 2200°C
Authors: Cheng Yehong , Zhang Fan , Ma Denghao , Zhang Yixin , Liu Yaxiong , An Yumin , Wang Anzhe , Hu Ning , Zhao Libin , Han Wenbo
Published: December 2022

Although Cf/ZrB2–SiC composites prepared via direct ink writing combined with low‐temperature hot‐pressing were shown to exhibit high relative density, high preparation efficiency, and excellent flexural strength and fracture toughness in our previous work, their oxidation and ablation resistance at high and ultrahigh temperatures had not been investigated. In this work, the oxidation and ablation resistance of Cf/ZrB2–SiC composites were evaluated via static oxidation at high temperature (1500°C) and oxyacetylene ablation at ultrahigh temperatures (2080 and 2270°C), respectively. The thickness of the oxide layer of the Cf/ZrB2–SiC composites is <40 μm after oxidizing at 1500°C for 1 h. The Cf/ZrB2–SiC composites exhibit non‐ablative properties after oxyacetylene ablation at 2080 and 2270°C for >600 s, with mass ablation rates of 3.77 × 10−3 and 5.53 × 10−3 mg/(cm2 s), and linear ablation rates of −4.5 × 10−4 and −5.8 × 10−4 mm/s, respectively. Upon an increase in the ablation temperature from 2080 to 2270°C, the thickness of the total oxide layer increases from 360 to 570 μm, and the carbon fibers remain intact in the unaffected region. Moreover, the oxidation and ablation process of Cf/ZrB2–SiC at various temperatures was analyzed and discussed.
The layered development of mouse B and T Cells
Authors: Montecino‐Rodriguez Encarnacion , Dorshkind Kenneth
Published: December 2022

Traditional models of lymphopoiesis present B and T cell development as a linear process that initiates in the fetus and continues after birth in the bone marrow and thymus, respectively. However, this view of lymphocyte development is not in accord with reports, dating back several decades, indicating that the types of lymphocytes generated before and after birth differ. In this regard, selected γδ T cells, and those that utilize the Vγ3 receptor in particular, and innate‐like B‐1 B cells preferentially arise during fetal blood cell development. This review synthesizes data from multiple laboratories, with an emphasis on our own work using mouse models, demonstrating that innate and conventional B and T cells emerge in hematopoietic stem cell independent and dependent waves of development that are differentially regulated. This layering of lymphocyte development has implications for understanding the composition of the adult immune system and may provide insights into the origin of various lymphocytic leukemias.
LncRNA TCF7 contributes to high glucose‐induced damage in human podocytes by up‐regulating SEMA3Avia sponging miR‐16‐5p
Authors: Jiang Zhenzhen , Qian Lijie , Yang Ruifeng , Wu Yan , Guo Yongping , Chen Tingfang
Published: December 2022

Aims/Introduction

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert essential functions in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). LncRNA T‐cell factor 7 (TCF7) and semaphorin‐3A (SEMA3A) have been found to be involved in the progression of diabetic nephropathy. However, whether the effect of TCF7 on the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy is mediated by SEMA3A remains unclear.

Materials and Methods

TCF7, miR‐16‐5p, and SEMA3A were quantified by a qRT‐PCR or immunoblotting method. A CCK‐8 assay gauged the cell viability. Measurement of cell apoptosis was done using flow cytometry. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), dual‐luciferase reporter, and RNA pull‐down assays were utilized to assay the targeted interactions among the variables.

Results

The TCF7 and SEMA3A levels were elevated in serum from patients with diabetic nephropathy. TCF7 silencing or SEMA3A depletion ameliorated high glucose (HG)‐induced podocyte injury. Moreover, TCF7 silencing protected against HG‐induced podocyte injury by down‐regulating SEMA3A. TCF7 targeted miR‐16‐5p, and miR‐16‐5p targeted SEMA3A. Furthermore, TCF7 affected the expression of SEMA3A by competing specifically for shared miR‐16‐5p.

Conclusions

These findings suggested that TCF7 silencing attenuated high glucose‐induced podocyte damage partially through the miR‐16‐5p/SEMA3A regulation cascade.
State of research in MFT: Thoughts from the Editor's Chair
Authors: Harris Steven M.
Published: December 2022

The Editor of JMFT discusses the state of research in systemic family therapy.
The overlooked functions of trichomes: Water absorption and metal detoxication
Authors: Li Cui , Mo Yingying , Wang Nina , Xing Longyi , Qu Yang , Chen Yanlong , Yuan Zuoqiang , Ali Arshad , Qi Jiyan , Fernández Victoria , Wang Yuheng , Kopittke Peter M.
Published: December 2022

Trichomes are epidermal outgrowths on plant shoots. Their roles in protecting plants against herbivores and in the biosynthesis of specialized metabolites have long been recognized. Recently, studies are increasingly showing that trichomes also play important roles in water absorption and metal detoxication, with these roles having important implications for ecology, the environment, and agriculture. However, these two functions of trichomes have been largely overlooked and much remains unknown. In this review, we show that the trichomes of 37 plant species belonging to 14 plant families are involved in water absorption, while the trichomes of 33 species from 13 families are capable of sequestering metals within their trichomes. The ability of trichomes to absorb water results from their decreased hydrophobicity compared to the remainder of the leaf surface as well as the presence of special structures for collecting and absorbing water. In contrast, the metal detoxication function of trichomes results not only from the good connection of their basal cells to the underlying vascular tissues, but also from the presence of metal‐chelating ligands and transporters within the trichomes themselves. Knowledge gaps and critical future research questions regarding these two trichome functions are highlighted. This review improves our understanding on trichomes.
Mucocutaneous manifestations of congenital syphilis in the neonate: A review of a surging disease
Authors: Newton Jazmin , Silence Channi , Boetes Jared , Cohen Bernard A.
Published: December 2022

Syphilis is an infection caused by Treponema pallidum. It is most commonly acquired through sexual transmission, although it can also be transmitted vertically across the placenta, resulting in congenital syphilis. Even with improved public health measures, testing, and treatment capabilities, primary, secondary, and congenital syphilis have all surged since 2012. Given this marked increase in both incidence and prevalence, here we present a comprehensive review of the clinical presentation, treatment, and management of congenital syphilis, with particular consideration given to the mucocutaneous manifestations of the disease in neonates.
Noninvasive testing for mycophenolate exposure in children with renal transplant using urinary metabolomics
Authors: Taha Khalid , Sharma Atul , Kroeker Kristine , Ross Colin , Carleton Bruce , Wishart David , Medeiros Mara , Blydt‐Hansen Tom D.
Published: December 2022

Background

Despite the common use of mycophenolate in pediatric renal transplantation, lack of effective therapeuic drug monitoring increases uncertainty over optimal drug exposure and risk for adverse reactions. This study aims to develop a novel urine test to estimate MPA exposure based using metabolomics.

Methods

Urine samples obtained on the same day of MPA pharmacokinetic testing from two prospective cohorts of pediatric kidney transplant recipients were assayed for 133 unique metabolites by mass spectrometry. Partial least squares (PLS) discriminate analysis was used to develop a top 10 urinary metabolite classifier that estimates MPA exposure. An independent cohort was used to test pharmacodynamic validity for allograft inflammation (urinary CXCL10 levels) and eGFR ratio (12mo/1mo eGFR) at 1 year.

Results

Fifty‐two urine samples from separate children (36.5% female, 12.0 ± 5.3 years at transplant) were evaluated at 1.6 ± 2.5 years post‐transplant. Using all detected metabolites (n = 90), the classifier exhibited strong association with MPA AUC by principal component regression (r = 0.56, p < .001) and PLS (r = 0.75, p < .001). A practical classifier (top 10 metabolites; r = 0.64, p < .001) retained similar accuracy after cross‐validation (LOOCV; r = 0.52, p < .001). When applied to an independent cohort (n = 97 patients, 1053 samples), estimated mean MPA exposure over Year 1 was inversely associated with mean urinary CXCL10:Cr (r = −0.28, 95% CI −0.45, −0.08) and exhibited a trend for association with eGFR ratio (r = 0.35, p = .07), over the same time period.

Conclusions

This urinary metabolite classifier can estimate MPA exposure and correlates with allograft inflammation. Future studies with larger samples are required to validate and evaluate its clinical application.
Combined transrectal and vaginal manual detorsion of pre‐cervical uterine torsion in cows
Authors: Đuričić Dražen , Samardžija Marko
Published: December 2022

The pre‐cervical uterine torsion is a rotation of a pregnant uterine horn on its longitudinal axis with the point of rotation located cranial to the cervix. After diagnosis based on vaginal and rectal examination, uterine detorsion was first transrectal approached because the cervix was not open and blocked. Five cases are described. The direction of rotation in all 5 cows was clockwise. The head of the calf was manually caught with the left hand per rectum and the entire uterus swayed several times in a left–right direction. During left–right swinging of the pregnant uterus and fetus, manually through the rectum, when the right swing tip reached, then abruptly tried to turn anti‐clockwise. The procedure was repeated several times. After partial transrectal detorsion, we could access the calf, vaginally, and detorsion with the right hand and the same procedure of swinging the calf were started, but vaginally. Even if the uterus was restored to the normal position, sometimes the calf remained in an unfavourable position; therefore, it was corrected in the dorsal position and prepared for a forced extraction. This is the first report of a successful combination of transrectal and vaginal manual detorsion of a rare pre‐cervical uterine torsion in cows.
Budget support to the health sector—The right choice for strong institutions? Evidence from panel data
Authors: Röthel Tim
Published: December 2022

This article examines the relationship of sector budget support to the health sector and the infant mortality rate for developing countries. Project‐type interventions have been widely used in developing countries in the past decades. These smaller‐scale interventions often did not bring the results that the donors would have wanted, at least on a macro level. At the beginning of the millennium, forums on aid effectiveness proposed new principles to increase the effectiveness of aid. Many scholars agreed that one of the answers would be budget support. This article tries to answer whether budget support is the efficient aid modality in countries with strong institutions. In the baseline scenario, a panel data analysis is applied, which includes 113 countries between 2010 and 2018. This dynamic linear panel model is estimated by using ordinary least squares (OLS) and system generalized method of moments (GMM). Health sector aid, in general, has a significant and negative effect on the infant mortality rate in the average country. Sector budget support is insignificant in the baseline estimation and when interacted with a governance variable. In contrast, project‐type interventions exhibit significant and negative effects on the outcome variable. The results indicate that sector budget support might not be the superior choice among the aid modalities in the health sector, even in countries with good governance.
Case of clinically mild encephalitis/encephalopathy with a reversible splenial lesion (MERS) due toLegionellapneumonia
Authors: Kageyama Satoko , Hayashi Ruiko , Uchida Haruhito A
Published: December 2022

Clinically mild encephalitis/encephalopathy with a reversible splenial lesion (MERS) is a clinicoradiologic syndrome diagnosed by temporary hyperintense lesion in the area, including the splenium of the corpus callosum, on diffusion-weighted imaging and neuropsychiatric symptoms that recover without sequelae. MERS is rare in adults, especially elderly people. We herein report a man in his 60s diagnosed with MERS caused byLegionellapneumonia. He completely recovered with only the administration of levofloxacin and azithromycin despite the risk factors of an advanced age, medical history of untreated hypertension, bilateral spontaneous pneumothoraxes, smoking and drinking habits and pulmonary emphysema. To our knowledge, this is the oldest case of MERS due toLegionellapneumonia and extremely old among total MERS cases. Our research revealed thatLegionellaspecies are the most common pathogens of adult-onset MERS, while viruses are the main causative factors in children. This case helps clarify the features of MERS in high-risk adults.
Governing a pandemic: biopower and the COVID-19 response in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mhazo Alison T , Maponga Charles Chiedza
Published: December 2022

Introduction

The extraordinary explosion of state power towards the COVID-19 response has attracted scholarly and policy attention in relation to pandemic politics. This paper relies on Foucault’s theoretical differentiation of the political management of epidemics to understand how governmental framing of COVID-19 reflects biopolitical powers and how power was mobilised to control the pandemic in Zimbabwe.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review of published literature, cabinet resolutions and statutory instruments related to COVID-19 in Zimbabwe.

Results

The COVID-19 response in Zimbabwe was shaped by four discursive frames: ignorance, denialism, securitisation and state sovereignty. A slew of COVID-19-related regulations and decrees were promulgated, including use of special presidential powers, typical of the leprosy model (sovereign power), a protracted and heavily policed lockdown was effected, typical of the plague model (disciplinary power) and throughout the pandemic, there was reference to statistical data to justify the response measures whilst vaccination emerged as a flagship strategy to control the pandemic, typical of the smallpox model (biopower). The securitisation frame had a large influence on the overall pandemic response, leading to an overly punitive application of disciplinary power and cases of infidelity to scientific evidence. On the other hand, a securitised, geopolitically oriented sovereignty model positively shaped a strong, generally well execucted, domestically financed vaccination (biopower) programme.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 response in Zimbabwe was not just an exercise in biomedical science, rather it invoked wider governmentality aspects shaped by the country’s own history, (geo) politics and various mechanisms of power. The study concludes that whilst epidemic securitisation by norm-setting institutions such as WHO is critical to stimulate international political action, the transnational diffusion of such charged frames needs to be viewed in relation to how policy makers filter the policy and political consequences of securitisation through the lenses of their ideological stances and its potential to hamper rather than bolster political action.
Indirect effects of COVID-19 on child and adolescent mental health: an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Harrison Leila , Carducci Bianca , Klein Jonathan D , Bhutta Zulfiqar Ahmed
Published: December 2022

Introduction

To control the spread of COVID-19, mitigation strategies have been implemented globally, which may have unintended harmful effects on child and adolescent mental health. This study aims to synthesise the indirect mental health impacts on children and adolescents globally due to COVID-19 mitigation strategies.

Methods

We included relevant reviews from MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, LILACS, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library and Web of Science until January 2022 that examined the impact of COVID-19-related lockdown and stay-at-home measures on the mental health of children and adolescents. Data extraction and quality assessments were completed independently and in duplicate by BC and LH. A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews-2 was used to assess the methodological quality.

Results

Eighteen systematic reviews, comprising 366 primary studies, found a pooled prevalence of 32% for depression (95% CI: 27 to 38, n=161 673) and 32% for anxiety (95% CI: 27 to 37, n=143 928) in children and adolescents globally following COVID-19 mitigation measures. Subgroup analyses also uncovered important differences for both depression and anxiety by World Health Organization regions with few studies from Africa and relative high burden of anxiety and depression in the Eastern Mediterranean region.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal a high prevalence of depression and anxiety in children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic, globally, compared with prepandemic estimates. These findings highlight the urgency for governments and policymakers to strengthen mental health systems in the COVID-19 recovery, especially in low-and middle-income countries where compounding psychological stress, access and affordability of care and discrepant reporting of mental health in this population remains a challenge. We also provide insight into how to alter mitigation strategies to reduce the unintended negative consequences for the health and well-being of children and adolescents in future pandemics.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022309348.
Concept analysis of patient safety in home care: a hybrid model
Authors: Keyvanloo Shahrestanaki Sahar , Rafii Forough , Najafi Ghezeljeh Tahereh , Ashghali Farahani Mansoureh , Amrollah Majdabadi Kohne Zahra
Published: December 2022

Background

Patient safety in home care is a fundamental and complex concept in nursing. This concept includes a number of challenges in patient care. Studies have shown that there is no clear and uniform definition for this concept.

Objective

The objective of the present study was to analyse patient safety in home care in Iran.

Methods

The study was done using a hybrid model at three phases, including theoretical, field work and the final analysis. We searched valid databases including MEDLIN and CINHAL; electronic references including Web of Science, Scopus, Ovid, ProQuest, PubMed and Persian databases including Magiran, IranDoc and SID during 2008–2022, using these Persian and English keywords: Patient Safety, Safety, Home Care Service, Domiciliary Care, Home Care and Home Health Care. A total of 16 articles were searched in the theoretical phase and then analysed by content analysis. In field work phase, nine participants were interviewed (nurse, family and patient) and then the interviews were analysed by the content analysis method. In the final analysis phase, a general analysis of the previous two phases was performed and after determining the attributes, antecedents and consequences, a final definition of patient safety in home care in Iran was presented.

Findings

Based on different studies, patient safety in home care is a multifaceted concept, which encompasses physical, mental, social and practical dimensions. Evaluation, prevention, participation and commitment to the safety culture are the core features of this concept. The patient care concept depends on the commitment of the involved participants, adequate resources, environmental conditions, support of the involved centres (home care agency, hospital and the insurance), self-efficacy and the ability of the caregivers (nurses).

Conclusion

Defining the concept of patient safety in home care provides a basis for the development of a safe patient care system at home. This concept analysis for patient safety in home care could be a guide for future studies.
Structural and functional correlates of the response to deep brain stimulation at ventral capsule/ventral striatum region for treatment-resistant depression
Authors: Lai Yijie , Dai Lulin , Wang Tao , Zhang Yingying , Zhao Yijie , Wang Fengting , Liu Qimin , Zhan Shikun , Li Dianyou , Jin Haiyan , Fang Yiru , Voon Valerie , Sun Bomin
Published: December 2022

Background

Though deep brain stimulation (DBS) shows increasing potential in treatment-resistant depression (TRD), the underlying neural mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we investigated functional and structural connectivities related to and predictive of clinical effectiveness of DBS at ventral capsule/ventral striatum region for TRD.

Methods

Stimulation effects of 71 stimulation settings in 10 TRD patients were assessed. The electric fields were estimated and combined with normative functional and structural connectomes to identify connections as well as fibre tracts beneficial for outcome. We calculated stimulation-dependent optimal connectivity and constructed models to predict outcome. Leave-one-out cross-validation was used to validate the prediction value.

Results

Successful prediction of antidepressant effectiveness in out-of-sample patients was achieved by the optimal connectivity profiles constructed with both the functional connectivity (R=0.49 at p<10-4; deviated by 14.4±10.9% from actual, p<0.001) and structural connectivity (R=0.51 at p<10-5; deviated by 15.2±11.5% from actual, p<10-5). Frontothalamic pathways and cortical projections were delineated for optimal clinical outcome. Similarity estimates between optimal connectivity profile from one modality (functional/structural) and individual brain connectivity in the other modality (structural/functional) significantly cross-predicted the outcome of DBS. The optimal structural and functional connectivity mainly converged at the ventral and dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex and orbitofrontal cortex.

Conclusions

Connectivity profiles and fibre tracts following frontothalamic streamlines appear to predict outcome of DBS for TRD. The findings shed light on the neural pathways in depression and may be used to guide both presurgical planning and postsurgical programming after further validation.
Holistic strategy for promoting effective handoffs
Authors: Keebler Joseph Roland , Lazzara Elizabeth , Griggs Andrew , Tannenbaum Scott , Fernandez Rosemarie , Greilich Philip , Salas Eduardo
Published: December 2022

Background

Handoffs are ubiquitous in modern healthcare practice, and they can be a point of resilience and care continuity. However, they are prone to a variety of issues. Handoffs are linked to 80% of serious medical errors and are implicated in one of three malpractice suits. Furthermore, poorly performed handoffs can lead to information loss, duplication of efforts, diagnosis changes and increased mortality.

Methods

This article proposes a holistic approach for healthcare organisations to achieve effective handoffs within their units and departments.

Results

We examine the organisational considerations (ie, the facets controlled by higher-level leadership) and local drivers (ie, the aspects controlled by the individuals working in the units and providing patient care).

Conclusion

We propose advice for leaders to best enact the processes and cultural change necessary to see positive outcomes associated with handoffs and care transitions within their units and hospitals.
Differential lifespan impacts on veterans by war exposure in the First World War
Authors: Wilson Nick , Clement C , Summers J A , Thomson G , Harper G
Published: December 2022

Introduction

There remains uncertainty around the impact of war on the lifespan of First World War (WW1) veterans. In particular, study comparison groups do not typically consider the ‘healthy soldier effect’.

Methods

We obtained lifespan data on a random sample of 857 war-exposed New Zealand WW1 veterans and compared this with lifespans of a non-war military cohort (n=1039). This comparison was possible as the non-war-cohort arrived in Europe too late to participate in the war, allowing a ‘natural experiment’ that avoided the ‘healthy solider effect’.

Results

The lifespan comparisons indicated lower mean lifespan in the war-exposed veteran cohort compared with the non-war veteran cohort (69.7 vs 71.1 years; p=0.0405). This gap persisted (range: 0.8–1.1 years) but was no longer statistically significant when only considering the non-Māori ethnic grouping (nearly all European/Pākehā personnel), when excluding additional deaths in the immediate postwar period up to 31 December 1923, and when excluding participation in any other wars. This was the case in both analysis of variance and Cox proportional hazards regression adjusting for year of birth and occupational status. Within the war-exposed cohort, there were suggestive patterns of increasing lifespan with increasing occupational status and military rank (eg, 69.5, 70.0 and 70.7 mean years as group-level occupational status progressively increased). There were also stark differences in lifespan of 8.3 years between Māori (Indigenous) and non-Māori veterans (p=0.0083).

Conclusions

The pattern of reduced lifespan in war-exposed versus non-war-exposed veterans was compatible with a smaller previous New Zealand study with comparable methodology. Veterans who were Māori had significantly lower lifespans than non-Māori veterans. There are a number of feasible avenues to further improve this type of work with existing data sources.
Median effective dose of ropivacaine for prophylactic cervical cerclage in Chinese women: a dose-finding study
Authors: Liu Kun , Zhao Ping , Ding Mengmeng , Ji Haiyin , Tao Bingdong
Published: December 2022

Background

Although intrathecal ropivacaine has been widely used for caesarean delivery, there are limited data for the use of ropivacaine for prophylactic cervical cerclage. We sought to determine the median effective dose of intrathecal ropivacaine for prophylactic cervical cerclage in 50% of patients (ED50) and the calculated dose required for successful block in 95% of patients (ED95).

Methods

We included Chinese women scheduled for prophylactic cervical cerclage under combined spinal-epidural (CSE) anaesthesia in the first or second trimester. A predetermined dose of intrathecal isobaric ropivacaine was administered. If this determined dose achieved an effective block at a level not lower than T12, the next dose was decreased by 0.5 mg. Otherwise, the next dose was increased by 0.5 mg. The primary outcome was the ED50 of intrathecal ropivacaine. Secondary outcomes included the calculated ED95, time from CSE to the start of surgery and so on.

Results

Forty patients were included in the study, 23 (57.5%) of 40 received an effective block only with intrathecal ropivacaine, while 17 (42.5%) patients needed extra epidural lidocaine to achieve a successful block. The ED50 of intrathecal ropivacaine confirmed by isotonic regression was 6.9 mg (95% CI, 6.68 to 7.12 mg), and the calculated ED95 was 7.8 mg (95% CI, 7.69 to 10.05 mg). When an effective block was achieved with intrathecal ropivacaine alone, the time to resolution of the sensory and motor blocks was 90 (75–100) min and 90 (60–100) min, respectively.

Conclusions

The ED50 of intrathecal ropivacaine for prophylactic cervical cerclage was 6.9 mg. Intrathecal ropivacaine (7.8 mg) is likely to produce successful anaesthesia in 95% of patients undergoing prophylactic cervical cerclage.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2100051418.
Baseline serum levels of cross-linked carboxy-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen predict abatacept treatment response in methotrexate-naive, anticitrullinated protein antibody-positive patients with early rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wu Chun , Hu Yanhua , Schafer Peter , Connolly Sean E , Wong Robert , Nielsen Signe Holm , Bay-Jensen Anne-Christine , Emery Paul , Tanaka Yoshiya , Bykerk Vivian P , Bingham Clifton O , Huizinga Thomas WJ , Fleischmann Roy , Liu Jinqi
Published: December 2022

Objective

To investigate correlations between biomarkers of bone remodelling and extracellular matrix turnover with baseline disease activity and treatment response in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

AssessingVeryEarlyRheumatoid arthritisTreatment-2 (AVERT-2;NCT02504268) included disease-modifying antirheumatic drug-naive, anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA)-positive patients randomised to weekly subcutaneous abatacept+methotrexate (MTX) or abatacept placebo+MTX for 56 weeks. This post hoc exploratory subanalysis assessed the association between baseline disease activity and eight biomarkers (Spearman’s correlation coefficient), and whether baseline biomarkers (continuous or categorical variables) could predict treatment response at weeks 24 and 52 (logistic regression).

Results

Patient characteristics were similar between overall (n=752) and biomarker subgroup (n=535) populations and across treatments. At baseline, neoepitopes of matrix metalloproteinase-mediated degradation products of types III and IV collagen and of C reactive protein (CRP) showed the greatest correlations with disease activity; cross-linked carboxy-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) showed weak correlation. Only CTX-I predicted treatment response; baseline CTX-I levels were significantly associated with achieving Simplified Disease Activity Index remission and Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28 (CRP)) <2.6 (weeks 24 and 52), and American College of Rheumatology 70 response (week 52), in patients treated with abatacept+MTX but not abatacept placebo+MTX. CTX-I predicted significant differential response between arms for DAS28 (CRP) <2.6 (week 24). Treatment differences were greater for abatacept+MTX in patients with medium/high versus low baseline CTX-I.

Conclusion

In MTX-naive, ACPA-positive patients with early RA, baseline CTX-I predicted treatment response to abatacept+MTX but not abatacept placebo+MTX.
Comparison of official reporting on assisted suicide and euthanasia across jurisdictions
Authors: Worthington Ana , Regnard Claud , Sleeman Katherine E , Finlay Ilora
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Official data reports from countries where assisted suicide and euthanasia is legal are an important resource for discerning participation rates, patient safety and transparency in the way that assisted dying is legal. We aimed to identify what information is published in official data reports on assisted suicide and euthanasia across jurisdictions.

Methods

We searched for official data reports from every jurisdiction where assisted suicide or euthanasia is legal. Searches were conducted on these countries’ official health authority websites as well as on mainstream search engines. The data measures included within each report were described in four categories: participation data, patient characteristics, clinician characteristics, and drugs and dying process.

Results

We found that 16 jurisdictions where assisted suicide or euthanasia is currently legal regularly publish data reports regarding its practice. The information included within these official reports varies greatly, with few measures published across all or most jurisdictions.

Conclusions

Differences in the kinds of information published within official reports on assisted suicide and euthanasia makes comparing the practice of assisted suicide and euthanasia across jurisdictions challenging. Many jurisdictions fail to report data measures, which could be valuable to the understanding of assisted suicide and euthanasia practices within that country. Improving data reporting across jurisdictions where assisted suicide and euthanasia is legal, for example, through establishing minimum requirements for data collection and reporting, is an important step towards ensuring patient safety and the transparent practice of assisted suicide and euthanasia.
Buprenorphine
Authors: Davis Mellar P , Behm Bertrand , Fernandez Carlos
Published: December 2022

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Arteriolosclerosis differs from venular collagenosis in relation to cerebrovascular parenchymal damages: an autopsy-based study
Authors: Cao Yuan , Huang Mei-Ying , Mao Chen-Hui , Wang Xue , Xu Yuan-Yuan , Qian Xiao-Jing , Ma Chao , Qiu Wen-Ying , Zhu Yi-Cheng
Published: December 2022

Background and purpose

Cerebrovascular parenchymal damage is prevalent in ageing brains; however, its vascular aetiology has not been fully elucidated. In addition to the underlying role of sclerotic arterioles, the correlation between collagenised venules has not been clarified. Here, we aimed to investigate the associations between microvascular injuries, including arteriolosclerosis and venular collagenosis, and related parenchymal damages in ageing brains, to investigate the underlying correlations.

Methods

We evaluated arteriolosclerosis and venular collagenosis in 7 regions from 27 autopsy cases with no history of stroke or brain tumour. The correlations between the ratio of arteriolosclerosis, venular collagenosis and the severity of cerebrovascular parenchymal damage, including lacunes, microinfarcts, myelin loss, and parenchymal and perivascular haemosiderin deposits, were assessed.

Results

Arteriolosclerosis and venular collagenosis became more evident with age. Arteriolosclerosis was associated with lacunes (p=0.004) and brain parenchymal haemosiderin deposits in the superior frontal cortex (p=0.024) but not with leukoaraiosis severity. Venular collagenosis was not associated with the number of lacunes or haemosiderin, while white matter generally became paler with severe venular collagenosis in the periventricular (β=−0.430, p=0.028) and deep white matter (β=−0.437, p=0.025).

Conclusion

Our findings imply an important role for venular lesions in relation to microvessel-related parenchymal damage which is different from that for arteriolosclerosis. Different underlying mechanisms of both cerebral arterioles and venules require further investigation.
Neutrino spin oscillations in gravitational fields in higher dimensions
Authors: Alavi S. A. , Serish T. Fallahi
Published: December 2022

Neutrino physics is one of the most active fields of research with important implications for particle physics, cosmology and astrophysics. On the other hand, motivated by some theories including string theory, formulation of physical theories in more than four spacetime dimensions has been the subject of increasing attention in recent years. Interaction of neutrinos with gravitational fields is one of the interesting phenomena which can lead to transition between different helicity states (spin oscillations). We study neutrino spin oscillations in Schwarzschild and RN backgrounds in higher-dimensional gravitational fields. We calculate the transition probability as a function of time and also study the dependence of the oscillation frequency on the orbital radius. The results help us to better understand the behavior of gravity and neutrinos in higher dimensions.
Efficient Reformulation of Linear and Nonlinear Solid-Phase Diffusion in Lithium-ion Battery Models using Symmetric Polynomials: Mass Conservation and Computational Efficiency
Authors: Thiagarajan Raghav Sai , Subramaniam Akshay , Kolluri Suryanarayana , Garrick Taylor R. , Preger Yuliya , De Angelis Valerio , Lim Jin-hyung , Subramanian Venkat R.
Published: December 2022

Lithium-ion batteries are typically modeled using porous electrode theory coupled with various transport and reaction mechanisms, along with suitable discretization or approximations for the solid-phase diffusion equation. The solid-phase diffusion equation represents the main computational burden for typical pseudo-2-dimensional (p2D) models since these equations in the pseudo r-dimension must be solved at each point in the computational grid. This substantially increases the complexity of the model as well as the computational time. Traditional approaches towards simplifying solid-phase diffusion possess certain significant limitations, especially in modeling emerging electrode materials which involve phase changes and variable diffusivities. A computationally efficient representation for solid-phase diffusion is discussed in this paper based on symmetric polynomials using Orthogonal Collocation and Galerkin formulation (weak form). A systematic approach is provided to increase the accuracy of the approximation (p form in finite element methods) to enable efficient simulation with a minimal number of semi-discretized equations, ensuring mass conservation even for non-linear diffusion problems involving variable diffusivities. These methods are then demonstrated by incorporation into the full p2D model, illustrating their advantages in simulating high C-rates and short-time dynamic operation of Lithium-ion batteries.
Identification of Redox Shuttle Generated in LFP/Graphite and NMC811/Graphite Cells
Authors: Buechele Sebastian , Adamson Anu , Eldesoky Ahmed , Boetticher Tom , Hartmann Louis , Boulanger Thomas , Azam Saad , Johnson Michel B. , Taskovic Tina , Logan Eric , Metzger Michael
Published: December 2022

Unwanted self-discharge of LFP/AG and NMC811/AG cells can be caused by in situ generation of a redox shuttle molecule after formation at elevated temperature with common alkyl carbonate electrolyte. This study investigates the redox shuttle generation for several electrolyte additives, e.g., vinylene carbonate and lithium difluorophosphate, by measuring the additive reduction onset potential, first cycle inefficiency and gas evolution during formation at temperatures between 25 and 70 °C. After formation, electrolyte is extracted from pouch cells for visual inspection and quantification of redox shuttle activity in coin cells by cyclic voltammetry. The redox shuttle molecule is identified by GC-MS and NMR as dimethyl terephthalate. It is generated in the absence of an effective SEI-forming additive, according to a proposed formation mechanism that requires residual water in the electrolyte, catalytic quantities of lithium methoxide generated at the negative electrode and, surprisingly, polyethylene terephthalate tape within the cell.
Stress Characteristics near Wellbore and Prevention Casing Deformation for Fracturing Horizontal Wells
Authors: Zhang Peng , Wu Zhenghua , Hu Shuying , Wei Jikai , Zhang Manlai , Ye Zhengqin , Pu Chunsheng , Pu Jingyang
Published: December 2022

Aiming at the problem that casing deformation can easily occur in tight oil horizontal well fracturing, based on the rock mechanics experiments and probability statistics, the distribution characteristics and law of the near-wellbore stress field of the reservoir in STH M56 were solved and analyzed by using the finite element modeling numerical method. The research shows that (1) the max/min horizontal stress ratio of the M56 tight oil reservoir is 1.2, the difference is less than 8 MPa, and this characteristic condition is more conducive to the formation of complex fracturing network in the reservoir during fracturing. (2) In M56, the Mises stress isoline near the borehole is symmetrically distributed. Stress concentration has four dangerous points (30°, 150°, 210° and 330°); a sector-shaped high dangerous stress zone is formed along the four dangerous points. As the pumping pressure increases, the vertical Mises stress first increases and then decreases, while the horizontal Mises stress first decreases and then increases. The max-Mises stress at the casing wall is linearly and positively correlated with the stress uniformity coefficient. When the pumping pressure is 80 MPa, the Mises stress exceeds the safe pressure limit of the casing. A pumping pressure of 70 MPa fracturing is the safe pumping pressure for the reservoir casing. (3) It is found that the 90° and 270° horizontal fixed plane perforations can avoid the dangerous stress zone, increasing and decreasing the injection flow rate of the fracturing pump step by step (

step
 
pressure
≤
5
 
MPa

) at the start and stop stages of fracturing; the control of the pump pressure during the whole process of fracturing is within 70 MPa, which can prevent the casing deformation.
Study on the Microstructure of Vanadium-Modified Tungsten High-Speed Steel-Coded SAE-AISI T1 Steel
Authors: Halfa Hossam , Seikh Asiful H. , Abdo Hany S. , Alnaser Ibrahim A. , Soliman Mahmoud S. , Ragab Sameh M.
Published: December 2022

The essential goal of this research is to evaluate the modification process on phase transformation, matrix chemical composition, and precipitated carbide types for modified SAE-AISI T1 steel and their effects on the hardness values after optimum heat treatment conditions. This research adopts the alloying design strategy to enhance one of the most important tools steel coded SAE-AISI T1 (T12001). Therefore, two alloying enhancement processes took place through partial or total tungsten replacement. Investigated steel was modified first through the addition of vanadium and then through the addition of vanadium and carbon. Substitute 5 wt modified SAE-AISI T1 steel. % tungsten with 1 wt. % vanadium, in addition to carbon content, varied from 0 to 1 wt. %. Therefore, to fulfill the goals of this work, Thermo-Calc software was utilized to get the following: (i) thermodynamic equilibrium information, (ii) the expected microstructure, (iii) the constituent volume fraction, and (iv) carbide chemical composition. The chemical composition of the expected phases was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX). In addition, volume fractions of different constituents were estimated by using Thermo-Calc software and authenticated by the imaging analysis process. The experimental findings for the variations in the chemical composition of the matrix and eutectic carbides precipitated, e.g., MC and M6C carbides, agree well with the calculated findings. Tungsten replacement by vanadium with and without extra carbon at traditional SAE-AISI T1 steel encourages MC carbide formation instead of M6C, M23C6, and M7C3 carbides. MC carbide precipitated in vanadium with extra carbon-modified steel contains more carbon, chromium, and tungsten but less vanadium compared with vanadium-modified steel. Vanadium with extra carbon-modified steel precipitated more M6C carbide and gamma-austenite. Hardness measurements emphasized that modified steel is a promising material for its use as a tooling material with low tungsten content and, in turn, produces cutting-tool materials with economical cost.
Management of Psychosis Associated with Graves’ Disease: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Williams Ozge Ceren Amuk , Abdulrahim Mouad , Davis Victoria , Jenson Charles , Anand Ayush , Bachu Anil Krishna
Published: December 2022

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease in which patients can rarely present with psychiatric symptoms. In these patients, detailed history with psychiatric evaluation using a mental status examination is crucial for the early identification of psychiatric manifestations. Early intervention with medical and surgical therapy can help effectively treat the condition and prevent adverse outcomes such as catatonia. We reported the case of a 25-year-old African American female with Graves’ disease who had significant stressors and presented with auditory hallucinations. She was diagnosed with psychosis secondary to Graves’ disease and was managed medically using antithyroid drugs and beta-blockers. On failure of medical therapy, a surgical approach was employed. The patient was managed successfully, and her condition improved. Our case highlights that the importance of early intervention in these cases can lead to successful outcomes in patients with Graves’ disease-induced psychosis.