bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Differences between Ocular and Nasal Instillation of Carteolol on Intraocular Pressure and Heart Rate in Japanese Men with High CYP2D6 Activity
Authors: Ishii Yoko , Nakamura Koichi , Matsuki Shunji , Uemura Naoto , Muraguchi Ryoko , Nakagawa Mikiko , Nakano Shigeyuki , Nakatsuka Kazuo
Published: September 2022

Sublingual administration of carteolol or instillation into one eye reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) in both eyes. This suggests that carteolol absorbed systemically can reduce IOP and that the extra‐ophthalmic route (e.g., the nasal route) can be an alternative method of drug administration. The authors compared the differences between ocular and nasal instillation relating to the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of a carteolol‐ophthalmic solution on IOP and heart rate (HE) in a randomized, double‐blind, crossover, placebocontrolled design in 11 healthy young extensive metabolizers for CYP2D6. The tmax' Cmax' and AUCo‐t of carteolol (0.8 mg) instilled into the nostril were significantly higher than those into the eye (p < 0.05): tmax (h)= 0.25 (0.17‐5.0), 1.0 (0.17‐5.0) (median value with range in the parenthesis, ocular vs. nasal); Cmax (ng/ml) = 1.33 ± 1.57, 2.29 ± 2.09; and AUCo‐t (ng•h/ml) = 9.36 ± 2.04, 21.13 ± 1.58 (geometric mean ± SD, ocular vs. nasal). The reduction of IOP after ocular instillation persisted significantly longer than that of nasal instillation (p < 0.05). The HR was significantly reduced after both ocular and nasal instillation (p < 0.05), although there were no significant differences between them. In conclusion, ocular instillation of a carteolol‐ophthalmic solution has advantages over nasal instillation in controlling IOP and the potential to decrease adverse reactions due to lower plasma concentrations.
Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of a New Squalene Synthase Inhibitor, BMS‐188494, in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Sharma Amarnath , Slugg Peter H. , Hammett Janis L. , Jusko William J.
Published: September 2022

A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group, ascending, multiple‐dose study was completed in 45 healthy male volunteers to assess the maximum tolerated dose, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of BMS‐187745, a squalene synthase inhibitor, administered as multiple oral doses of its prodrug BMS‐188494. Participants received a daily oral dose of 10 mg for 2 weeks, or a daily oral dose of 25, 50, 100, or 200 mg for 4 weeks. The absorption rate constant (ka) and bioavailability (F) values were estimated by fitting the plasma BMS‐187745 concentration‐time data to a biexponential function with a first‐order ka. Values for F were similar for all five dose levels, and thus were independent of dose. The ka values also were similar for all dose groups except the 50‐mg group, for which ka values were somewhat higher. The change in urinary excretion rate of farnesyl pyrophosphate metabolite (dioic acid) was determined to be a pharmacodynamic measure. There was no significant change in dioic acid excretion at doses of less than 100 mg given for 4 weeks. An indirect pharmacodynamic response model with threshold concentration (CT) and based on inhibition of squalene synthase was proposed to describe the effect versus time data. The pharmacodynamic data from all dose levels were fitted simultaneously to the proposed model and the fitted parameters estimated as CT = 3.9 μg/mL, kout = 0.47 hr−1, IC50 = 4.1 μg/mL, and Imax = 1.0. The proposed indirect response model requiring a threshold concentration provides a useful means of quantitating responses for a new type of therapeutic agent.
Genetics of Asthma: From Chicken Soup to Napoleon to Toronto
Authors: Slutsky Arthur S.
Published: September 2022

For a number of reasons, genetics has always been thought to be involved in asthma. It is only now, with several approaches and tools to make population genetic studies possible, that studies are intensified. Using both the candidate gene and the positional cloning approaches, there is evidence that predisposing factors, if not the disease itself, are genetically transferred. In addition, studies on inbred island populations have further demonstrated a high probability of a genetically transferable link. If the genes can be identified, diagnostic tests or predictions regarding the response to specific therapy are advances that would follow.
Menstrual Cycle Variability in Midazolam Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Kharasch Evan D. , Mautz Douglas , Senn Tauri , Lentz Gretchen , Cox Kathy
Published: September 2022

Activity of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), the most abundant human P450 isoform and responsible for metabolizing approximately half of all therapeutic agents, has been speculated to vary during the menstrual cycle. This investigation evaluated CYP3A4 activity during the menstrual cycle, using midazolam clearance as a metabolic probe. Midazolam (1 mg IV) was administered to nonsmoking, nonpregnant female volunteers (N = 11, age 26 ± 5 years) with normal menstrual cycles on three separate occasions during the same cycle: days 2 (menstrual phase), 13 (estradiol peak), and 21 (progesterone peak). Venous plasma midazolam concentrations were determined by gas chromatography—mass spectrometry. Midazolam clearance was determined by noncompartmental and compartmental analysis. Midazolam plasma disposition did not differ between phases of the menstrual cycle. There was no significant difference in any measure of midazolam clearance. Noncompartmental clearances (mean ± SD) were 7.36 ± 2.73, 6.34 ± 3.59, and 6.23 ± 2.04 ml/kg/min, respectively, on days 2, 13, and 21 of the menstrual cycle. These results suggest no difference in hepatic CYP3A4 activity on menstrual cycle days 2, 13, and 21. Consideration of menstrual cycle variability in the metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates does not appear indicated in the dosing or design of clinical trials.
Effect of Venlafaxine on the Pharmacokinetics of Risperidone
Authors: Amchin Jess , Zarycranski William , Taylor Karen P. , Albano Dominick , Klockowski Patricia M.
Published: September 2022

An open‐label study evaluated the effect of steady‐state venlafaxine on the single‐dose pharmacokinetic profile of risperidone, a CYP2D6 substrate; its active metabolite, 9‐hydroxyrisperidone; and the total active moiety (risperidone plus 9‐hydroxyrisperidone). Thirty healthy subjects received a 1 mg oral dose of risperidone before and after venlafaxine dosing to steady state. No significant changes occurred between treatments in the area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC) for 9‐hydroxyrisperidone or the total active moiety. However, venlafaxine weakly altered the pharmacokinetics of risperidone. Oral clearance decreased 38%, and the volume of distribution decreased 17%, resulting in a 32% increase in the AUC for risperidone. Renal clearance of 9‐hydroxyrisperidone also decreased by 20% in the presence of venlafaxine. Safety profiles of both drugs were not altered. This study demonstrated that venlafaxine did not affect the pharmacokinetic profile of 9‐hydroxyrisperidone or the total active moiety, although it weakly inhibited the metabolism of risperidone. These results show that venlafaxine is unlikely to be involved in a pharmacokinetic interaction with concomitant risperidone.
Pharmacokinetics of S‐ and R‐Enantiomers of Aminoglutethimide following Oral Administration of Racemic Drug in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Alshowaier Ibrahim A. , El‐Yazigi Adnan , Ezzat Adnan , El‐Warith Ahmad Abd , Nicholls IP. J.
Published: September 2022

This study was undertaken to examine the pharmacokinetics of both enantiomers of AG—that is, (R‐AG) and (S‐AG) and respective acetyl metabolites, R‐AcAG and S‐AcAG—in breast cancer patients. Six patients received a single dose (500 mg) of the racemic drug, and serial plasma samples and urine were collected over a 48‐hour period. R‐AG, S‐AG, R‐AcAG, and S‐AcAg were measured simultaneously by high‐performance liquid chromatography using two serial chiral separation columns with ultraviolet detection. The plasma concentrations of R‐AG were about 1.5 times higher than those of S‐AG, and the data for both enantiomers exhibited the characteristics of the one‐compartment open model. There were no significant differences between R‐ and S‐AG in ka, tmax, V/F, and t1/2. The formation of R‐ and S‐AcAG was rapid, and no correlation was found between the t1/2 values of the AG enantiomers with that of their acetylated metabolites. Overall, 41% of the dose was excreted in urine as AG (15% R‐AG and 26% S‐AG) and 5.1% as AcAG (2.9% R‐AcAG and 2.2% S‐AcAG). Renal clearance of S‐AG was significantly greater (i.e., 2.3‐fold) than that of R‐AG and appears to be most likely the cause for the other pharmacokinetic differences observed. Both enantiomers had low renal extraction ratios, suggesting extensive tubular reabsorption of the compounds. However, based on the data obtained, it was concluded that the main factor contributing to the therapeutic effectiveness of racemic AG is the large potency difference between the R‐ and S‐ forms (R > S). The pharmacokinetic differences between R‐AG and S‐AG appear to contribute only marginally to the activity of this drug as an aromatase inhibitor.
Lack of Effect of Cimetidine on the Pharmacokinetics of Sustained‐Release Bupropion
Authors: Kustra Robert , Corrigan Brian , Dunn John , Duncan Benjamin , Hsyu Poe‐Hirr
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to assess whether cimetidine affects the pharmacokinetics of sustained‐release (SR) bupropion hydrochloride and the active metabolite, hydroxybupropion. This randomized, open‐label, two‐period crossover study was conducted in 24 healthy volunteers 18 to 45 years of age. ANOVA showed that administration of two 150 mg bupropion SR tablets with one 800 mg cimetidine tablet following an overnight fast did not change values for AUC∞, Cmax, tmax, t1/2, and CL/F (CL/F calculated for bupropion only) for either bupropion or hydroxybupropion as compared with two 150 mg bupropion SR tablets alone. In this study, it appears that there is no effect of cimetidine on the pharmacokinetics of bupropion SR.
Patient Safety/Quality Improvement Primer, Part IV: Psychological Safety—Drivers to Outcomes and Well‐being
Authors: Jamal Nausheen , Young VyVy N. , Shapiro Jo , Brenner Michael J. , Schmalbach Cecelia E.
Published: September 2022

Psychological safety is the concept that an individual feels comfortable asking questions, voicing ideas or concerns, and taking risks without undue fear of humiliation or criticism. In health care, psychological safety is associated with improved patient safety outcomes, increased clinician engagement, and greater creativity. A culture of psychological safety is imperative for physician well‐being and satisfaction, which in turn directly affect delivery of care. For health care professionals, psychological safety creates an environment conducive to trust and openness, enabling the team to focus on high‐quality care. In contrast, unprofessional behavior reduces psychological safety and threatens the culture of the organization. This patient safety/quality improvement primer considers the barriers and facilitators to psychological safety in health care; outlines principles for creating a psychologically safe environment; and presents strategies for managing conflict, microaggressions, and lapses in professionalism. Individuals and organizations share the responsibility of promoting psychological safety through proactive policies, conflict management, interventions for microaggressions, and cultivation of emotional intelligence.
Assessment and Correlation of Dactyloscopy, Cheiloscopy, and Rugoscopy Among Individuals With Different Skeletal Malocclusion—A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sapasetty Sirisha , Gandikota Chandrasekhar
Published: September 2022

Background and Objectives

A probable association between dermatoglyphics and malocclusions related to skeletal discrepancy may exist as dermal ridges, and craniofacial structures develop from the same embryonic tissues during the same embryonic period. The study aims to assess and correlate the pattern of fingerprints, lip prints, and palatal rugae in individuals with malocclusions related to skeletal discrepancy.

Materials and Methods

The 180 samples collected in the study were divided into 3 groups based on cephalometric analysis into class I, II, and III malocclusion. The fingerprints, lip prints, and palatal rugae patterns were obtained for each participant and pattern analysis was done.

Results

Class I malocclusion with no skeletal discrepancy showed a statistically significant difference in the loop fingerprint patterns on all fingers except the first finger on the right and left hand, branched lip pattern, and straight palatal rugae pattern in primary rugae 1 and 4. Class II malocclusion related to skeletal discrepancy showed a statistically significant difference in the loop pattern on all fingers except in the fourth finger of the right hand which showed a whorl pattern, branched lip pattern, and straight palatal rugae pattern in primary rugae 1, 4, and 5. Class III malocclusion related to skeletal discrepancy showed a statistically significant difference in the loop pattern on all fingers except in the fourth finger of the right hand which showed an absence of arch pattern, vertical lip print pattern, and straight palatal rugae pattern in primary rugae 1.

Conclusion

Dermatoglyphics analysis can be used to indicate developing malocclusions related to skeletal discrepancies. at an early age, thereby aiding the development of treatment aiming to establish favorable occlusion. Prospective and various ethnic and racial-based studies would be valuable for the establishment of dermatoglyphic markers of malocclusion.
Probabilistic Prediction of Collisions between Cyclists and Vehicles Based on Uncertainty of Cyclists’ Movements
Authors: Pan Di , Han Yong , Jin Qianqian , Kan Jin , Huang Hongwu , Mizuno Koji , Thomson Robert
Published: September 2022

The uncertainty of cyclists’ movements has a significant impact on predicting the risk of collisions between cyclists and vehicles. The purpose of this study was to provide a method for assessing collision risk using probability, taking into account the uncertainty of cyclists’ movements. A cyclist model was first developed using a first-order Markov model. Then, based on Monte Carlo sampling, the distribution characteristics of the minimum distance and the time-to-collision (TTC) between the vehicle and the cyclist were extracted. By fitting these features, the probability density functions of the collision distance and TTC were estimated to derive the collision probabilities. The effectiveness of the collision probability prediction model was benchmarked against a deterministic crash risk prediction model (autonomous emergency braking [AEB] system) applied to three real-world cases previously reconstructed in an in-depth crash database. The results show that the collision probability prediction model can effectively predict the risk of collisions between cyclists and vehicles with better accuracy than AEB systems using a fixed trigger threshold. This study is a valuable reference for the development of advanced vehicle collision avoidance systems to protect cyclists and other vulnerable road users.
Meta-Analysis of Soil Property Relationships and Construction Platform Design
Authors: Lea Jeremy D. , Wu Rongzong , Harvey John T.
Published: September 2022

This paper introduces the concept of using an existing low-volume road design method to design the lower granular layers within a mechanistic-empirical design to ensure an adequate construction platform. The DCP-DN design method was chosen because it has advantages over other cover-based empirical methods in this context, including utilizing a full-depth measurement and requiring a balanced layer profile. To implement the DCP-DN method and use field Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) data in the mechanistic-empirical design, a relationship to convert between stiffness and DCP penetration index was required. A new set of internally consistent relationships between various soil strength and stiffness parameters was thus developed, using a meta-analysis of 126 models published since the 1960s. These were used to develop a new nomograph for estimating the properties of various soils.
Optimal design of broadband radar-absorbing composite structures based on different compositions, processing, and geometric parameters
Authors: Danesh Mohammad , Beheshti Hamid , Heidari-Rarani Mohammad
Published: September 2022

The main challenge in the design of radar-absorbing composite structures (RASs) is that there is a variety of different parameters affecting the absorbing performance. In this study, these parameters are categorized into: (1) reinforcing materials including fabric types (i.e., glass fabric, carbon fabric, and 3D fabric) and filler types (i.e., carbon black, carbonyl iron, and polyaniline); (2) geometric parameters including layer thickness and stacking sequences; and (3) manufacturing methods. Up to now, the effect of all these parameters has not been simultaneously investigated and optimized on the X-band radar-absorbing feature of composite structures. Therefore, the influence of all these parameters is first experimentally investigated using waveguide tests; then, a new multi-objective optimization algorithm based on NSGA II technique is developed to simultaneously optimize the effective parameters for high-performance RAS with maximum average reflection loss and minimum weight, while considering structural limitations. Finally, the proposed algorithm is evaluated by experimental results.
Association of Pectus Excavatum With Ventricular Remodelling and Mitral Valve Abnormalities in Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Abdulmonem L Hashem Dalia , Chan Victor Siang Hua , Hanneman Kate , Wald Rachel M. , Thavendiranathan Paaladinesh , Ouzounian Maral , Oechslin Erwin , Karur Gauri R.
Published: September 2022

Background: Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an inherited connective tissue disorder. Pectus excavatum (PEX) is common in MFS. The purpose was to evaluate the association of PEX with cardiovascular manifestations of MFS, biventricular size and function. Methods: MFS adults undergoing cardiac MRI were retrospectively evaluated. Exclusion criteria were incomplete cardiac MRI, significant artifacts, co-existent ischaemic or congenital heart disease. Haller Index (HI) ≥3.25 classified patients as PEX positive (PEX+) and PEX negative (PEX−). Cardiac MRI analysis included assessment of mitral valve prolapse (MVP), mitral annular disjunction (MAD), biventricular volumetry and aortic dimensions. Results: 212 MFS patients were included, 76 PEX+ and 136 PEX− (HI 8.3 ± 15.2 vs 2.3 ± 0.5, P < .001). PEX+ were younger (33.4 ± 12.0 vs 38.1 ± 14.3 years, P = .02) and similar in sex distribution (55% vs 63% male, P = .26) compared to PEX−. MVP and MAD were more frequent in PEX+ vs PEX− (43/76 [57%] vs 37/136 [27%], P < .001; 44/76 [58%] vs 50/136[37%], P = .003, respectively). PEX+ had higher right ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes (RVEDVi 92 ± 17mL/m2 vs 84 ± 22mL/m2, P = .04; RVESVi 44 ± 10 mL/m2 vs 39 ± 14 mL/m2, P = .02), lower RV ejection fraction (RVEF 52 ± 5% vs 55 ± 6%, P = .01) compared to PEX−. Left ventricular (LV) volumes, LVEF and aortic dimensions were similar. Conclusion: MFS adults with PEX have higher frequency of cardiac manifestations including MV abnormalities, increased RV volumes and lower RVEF compared to those without PEX. Awareness of this association is important for all radiologists who interpret aortic CT or MRI, where HI can be easily measured. PEX in MFS may suggest more severe disease expression necessitating careful screening for MV abnormalities and outcomes surveillance.
Historic Precepts and Analysis of Mental Health Legislation in India: Implications for Health Management during Pandemic and Beyond
Authors: Nigam Siddhi
Published: September 2022

Mental health has become one of the growing concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic in almost all age groups. Further, the awareness and the facilities in regard to mental health issues stays limited to the privileged class of the society. It has further raised concerns to look for ways to effectively and equitably implement mental health legislation in India, where social stigma in approaching mental health services is also very high. This article analyses the historical precepts of mental health services in India and explores the implementation status of mental health legislation 2017 across different states. It also explores some of the issues related to social stigma which acts as a challenge in utilisation of mental health services. It recommends a need for expansion in mental health professionals’ numbers along with adequate infrastructure, especially in rural and remote areas, to make mental health services equitably accessible to all. Mental health awareness generation and therapeutic services for underprivileged class and for COVID-19 affected families should qualify as eligible initiative under corporate social responsibility funding. In this manner, corporates can supplement government efforts to ensure the implementation of mental health legislation in letter and spirit for the benefit of all the citizens.
Antecedents of Nurse Burnout During a Pandemic: Managerial Way Out
Authors: Basar Ufuk , Dogan Aysun , Ertugrul Bekir
Published: September 2022

The aim of this research is to uncover whether nurses’ fear of contracting Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in stress-related presenteeism and burnout, and whether perceived organisational support is effective in dealing with both nurses’ fear of contracting COVID-19 and its undesired consequences. For this purpose, a cross-sectional and descriptive research has been conducted. The data are collected from 513 nurses working in Ankara, Turkey, through a questionnaire survey. Independent samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance test and partial least squares structural equation modelling technique are employed to analyse the data. Findings indicate that nurses fear infection and experience stress-related presenteeism and burnout considerably. However, they perceive slightly inadequate level of organisational support. Fear of infection has resulted in stress-related presenteeism and burnout. Stress-related presenteeism has mediated the relationship between fear of infection and burnout. Perceived organisational support has negatively related to fear of infection and its negative consequences. In this research, to our knowledge, for the first time, the burnout, stress-related presenteeism, fear of infection and perceived organisational support levels of nurses are compared according to the pandemic-related criteria. Besides, the mediating role of nurses’ stress-related presenteeism between their fear of contracting COVID-19 and burnout is discovered.
Corporate Social Responsibility Towards Purchase Intention Across Regional Identity: A Comparison Between South Asia and Southeast Asia During COVID-19
Authors: Arachchi H. A. D. M. , Samarasinghe G. D.
Published: September 2022

The study attempted to explain the role of regional identity on the relationship between perceived corporate social responsibility (PCSR) and purchase intention through customer satisfaction and brand loyalty in South and Southeast Asian regions during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A quantitative research was conducted with a survey including a sample of 3,870 regular retail customers from six countries in South and Southeast Asia. The data were analysed to test the hypotheses using SmartPLS. It found a significant and positive chain relationship between PCSR, satisfaction, brand loyalty and purchase intention in all six countries. In a comparative analysis, regional identity significantly, strongly and positively moderated the relationship in India and Pakistan except Sri Lanka while regional identity significantly and positively but weakly moderated the relationship in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. The study is the first investigation to discover dynamic role of customers’ regional identity in making impactful CSR in a pandemic. It also made several theoretical and managerial implications with future research insights on retail consumer behaviour.
Carlevale intraocular lens opacification after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty
Authors: Coco Giulia , Ferrara Mariantonia , Borgia Alfredo , Romano Davide , Romano Vito
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To report a case of sutureless scleral-fixated (SSF) Carlevale intraocular lens (IOL) opacification following Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) surgery.

Methods

An 82-year-old man underwent combined SSF Carlevale IOL implant and DSAEK surgery for aphakic endothelial decompensation. Surgery was uneventful, while the postoperative period was complicated by multiple graft detachments requiring re-bubbling. After four re-bubbling procedures, the corneal graft attached and cleared over time.

Results

29 months after combined SSF IOL implant and DSAEK surgery, the patient presented with decreased vision due to IOL opacification affecting the visual axis.

Conclusion

Although combined SSF IOL and DSAEK surgery is an overall safe and effective procedure for aphakic endothelial decompensation, risk of IOL opacification due to anterior chamber air injection is higher when using hydrophilic IOLs and in cases requiring multiple re-bubbling, therefore, intraocular lens material should be chosen after considering the risks and benefits.
Party system institutionalization, partisan affect, and satisfaction with democracy
Authors: Ridge Hannah M.
Published: September 2022

Citizens’ attitudes about the political parties in their countries have been linked to their overall satisfaction with their democracy, with those feeling great love (hate) for parties feeling more (less) satisfied with the democracy. Such strong positive and negative emotions require time and clear targets to form. This study demonstrates that the influence of interparty affect is greater where the party system has institutionalized. Where the public can be familiar with the parties, their positions, and their relative status in the party system, citizens’ attitudes toward the democracy are more informed by their feelings about the parties in the system. This article draws on 20 years of surveys from the Comparative Study of Electoral Systems. It demonstrates that the positive effect of positive party affect is greater in institutionalized party systems, while the negative effect of negative party affect is not. This article thus contributes to political science’s understanding of affective polarization, the benefits of party system institutionalization, and popular democratic commitment.
Children’s understanding and consent to heart surgery: Multidisciplinary teamwork and moral experiences
Authors: Alderson Priscilla , Bellsham-Revell Hannah , Dedieu Nathalie , King Liz , Mendizabal Rosa , Sutcliffe Katy
Published: September 2022

Mainstream law and ethics literature on consent to children’s surgery contrasts with moral experiences of children and adults observed in two heart surgery centres. Research interviews were conducted with 45 practitioners and related experts, and with 16 families of children aged 6 to 15, admitted for non-urgent surgery, as well as an online survey. Thematic data analysis was informed by critical realism and childhood studies.

Impersonal adult-centric mainstream literature assumes young children cannot consent. It is based on dichotomies: adult/child, competent/incompetent, respect or protect children, inform or distract them, use time swiftly or flexibly, verbal/non-verbal communication, respect or control children and reason/emotion.

Through their moral experiences, adults and children resolve these seeming dichotomies. Through understanding young children’s reasoning and emotions about complex distressing decisions related to heart surgery, adults share knowledge, control, trust and respect with them. They see children’s consent or refusal before non-urgent surgery as a shared personal moral experience within the child’s life course, beyond mere legal compliance. Adults help children to understand and ‘want’ the surgery that offers things they value: better health or to ‘be more like their friends’. If children are not convinced, sometimes surgery is postponed or occasionally cancelled.
Oxidation performance of particle-reinforced Ti750 matrix composites
Authors: Tabie Vitus Mwinteribo , Xu Xiaojing , Osman Majeed Koranteng , Li Jianwei
Published: September 2022

This study used SiCp, SiCw, B4C, and GPLs as reinforcements for Ti750 matrix alloy and composites synthesized by spark plasma sintering. The oxidation performances of the composites were then evaluated at 800 °C. 5 vol.% SiCp reinforced Ti750 composite recorded the least oxidation weight gain of 3.80 mg.cm−2, about 41.8% of the base alloy. The average oxidation rates K + of the five materials at 800 °C were less than 1 g.m−2.h−1, indicating all materials were within the anti-oxidation grade with excellent anti-oxidation performance. The oxidation products of the samples contained TiO2, Al2O3, and SiO2. 5 vol.% SiCp reinforced Ti750 composite had significantly flatter and denser oxide film, which was well bonded with the matrix thus having a better protective effect than the matrix material. With the addition of SiCp, the thickness of the oxide film decreased, and the resistance of the material significantly improved its high-temperature oxidation performance.
The influence of plasma nitriding hardness treatment on the dynamic compressive behavior of the Hardox 400 at a wide temperature range
Authors: Hedjeres Salah , Tria Djalel Eddine , Boudiaf Achraf , Kruszka Leopold , Hassani Salim , Alim Mohamed Mounes
Published: September 2022

This paper aims to study the effect of hardness nitriding treatment on the overall mechanical behavior of Hardox 400 steel. A Plasma Immersion Ion Implantation (PIII) technique was used for material nitriding while a split Hopkinson pressure bar equipped with an electromagnetic heating system was used for the thermomechanical characterization of the studied steel. The collected data are analyzed to identify the combined effect of the high strain rates and elevated temperatures on the flow stress and ductility. The microstructure and the physical properties of the nitrided Hardox 400 were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction, and nano-indentation tests. Although the increase of the surface hardness by 37%, the quasistatic and dynamic compression tests showed a decrease in the flow stress due to the microstructure modification caused by the increase of the temperature during the plasma nitriding process. For a better assessment of the experimental results, reduction factors for the main mechanical properties are reported. The test data from SHPB indicated a dependency of the strain rate to the temperature of untreated un-nitrided Hardox 400. Finally, a critical review of the well-known Johnson-Cook constitutive model is highlighted, where material parameters are calibrated with special attention to the thermal softening parameter. The obtained results could be of great interest for the assessment of structural components’ robustness where the combined strain rate and temperature for Hardox 400 are met.
Differentiation in the European Union and beyond
Authors: Hooghe Liesbet , Marks Gary
Published: September 2022

This forum article analyzes differentiation among states in the European Union and among regions within states as a single phenomenon, an arrangement in which one or more constituent units opt out of a common policy. By examining differentiation in a variety of contexts, we seek to shed light on its basic features.
Research methods for a fragile world: A personal reflection and actionable recommendations
Authors: Rashid Lubna
Published: September 2022

There remains a dearth of knowledge on research approaches and methodologies that are well-suited for contexts of violence and fragility, specifically in management research. Well-intentioned researchers often fall into the same traps over and over again, where objectification, silencing of voices, and violence normalization may prevail ( Abdelnour and Abu Moghli, 2021 ), leading to inadvertently causing harm and perpetuating damaging power dynamics and stereotypes. In this piece, I reflect upon my autobiographical research journey and practical experiences to provide concrete examples and recommendations to other fellow scholars that may enable them to enhance the value of research in fragile environments for all those involved, particularly those most in need. I conclude with a simple guideline for research design, data acquisition, and result dissemination, that may serve as a reference and starting point when embarking on such endeavors.
Conservative Treatment in Two Patients With Spontaneous Hepatic Artery Dissection
Authors: Bang Jun Hyung , Choi Jung Bum , Lee Byoung Chul , Kim Dae Hwan , Jung Hyuk Jae
Published: September 2022

Background

Spontaneous dissection of the hepatic artery is a rare finding for which there is no specific treatment algorithm. Even though endovascular treatment and surgery have been used to treat other visceral artery dissections, these approaches can be challenging in the case of hepatic artery dissection because it is difficult to access the hepatic artery.

Case summary

2 patients with spontaneous dissection of the hepatic artery were admitted due to epigastric pain. Although the liver function test results were normal, and there were no complications such as bleeding, shock, or ischemia in other organs, a subsequent computed tomography scan directly revealed the spontaneous dissection of the hepatic artery in both patients. The patients were treated with anticoagulants without surgery. Because it is difficult to perform surgery or endovascular treatment on the hepatic artery, we focused on preventing the progression of hepatic artery dissection and the formation of a new thrombus in the dissection.

Conclusion

Considering the risk of surgical treatment for the hepatic artery and the condition of the patients, medical treatment with anticoagulants may be considered as an initial treatment and provide more benefits than surgical treatment.
At Home with the Mavericks: Student and Teacher Perspectives of the Transformative Potential of Glasser’s Choice Theory at an Alternative Secondary School
Authors: Lyngstad Michael
Published: September 2022

This study uses a framework of transformative learning theory to explore fourteen participants’ experiences with learning William Glasser’s Choice Theory. The researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with students, staff and alumni of an alternative secondary school in order to explore their perspectives on the transformative potential of a local option course based on Choice Theory. Findings point to Choice Theory having a positive influence on experiences of personal transformation and increased empathy among participants including changes to habits of mind, frames of reference and reworking of meaning schemes and perspectives. Participants also communicated the importance of learning the language of Choice Theory and of being embedded within a shared community of practice around the techniques and theory of Choice Theory to achieving and maintaining a mindset of transformation.
The Continuation of Civil War by Other Means? Post-Conflict Peacebuilding in Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Prakash , Hansen Wendy L.
Published: September 2022

When countries emerge from a civil war, accountability and compensation for harms done are crucial for peacebuilding. However, post-civil war governments face uncertain political contexts, delegation problems, difficulties building trust among former combatants, deficits of central administrative capacity, and incentives to reward supporters. Given these challenges, they are unlikely to be able to fairly distribute financial compensation. In Nepal, the awarding of internationally funded compensation for conflict-related losses provides a very tangible test regarding whether factional opportunism or broader public interest considerations guide post-conflict allocations. We hypothesize that without effective institutions, compensation will be skewed in favour of those in power and not proportional to harms suffered. Using individual-level data, we analyse who benefited from the post-conflict settlement, showing those killed by Maoist perpetrators, those sympathetic to the state and members of the state armed forces were more likely to be compensated, a biased, hence unfavourable, outcome for peacebuilding.
T-type Ca2+ channels play a dual role in modulating the excitability of dorsal root ganglia neurons
Authors: Zhu Tong , Wang Yuying
Published: September 2022

A subgroup of low-threshold dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons discharge action potentials (APs) with an afterdepolarizing potential (ADP). The ADP is formed by T-type Ca2+ currents. It is known that T-type Ca2+ currents contribute to neuropathic pain. However, the change in ADP-firing of injured DRG neurons has not been widely studied yet. Here we applied patch clamp to record ADP-firing and T-type Ca2+ currents in intact and chronically compressed DRG (CCD) neurons and examined T-type Ca2+ channel proteins expression with western blotting. After CCD injury, the incidences of both ADP firing and non-ADP burst firing increased, and T-type Ca2+ channels contributed to both of these firing patterns. The neurons discharging large-amplitude-ADP firing were TTX-insensitive, implying that high-density T-type Ca2+ channels might cooperate with TTX-insensitive Na+ channels to reduce the AP threshold. By contrast, the neurons displaying non-ADP burst firing were TTX-sensitive, implying that low density T-type Ca2+ channels may cooperate with TTX-sensitive Na+ channels to increase AP number. In DRG neurons, T-type Ca2+ currents density varied widely, ranging between 100 pA/pF and 5 pA/pF. After injury, the proportion of DRG neurons with large T-type Ca2+ currents increased in parallel with the increase in the incidence of large-amplitude-ADP firing. And in addition to Cav3.2, Cav3.3 channels are also likely to contribute to low-threshold firing. The data revealed that T-type Ca2+ channels may play a dual role in modulating the injured neurons’ high excitability through a cooperative process with Na+ channels, thereby contributing to neuropathic pain.
What makes them thrive? Protective factors for the academic success of Roma university students: A case study
Authors: Gallego-Noche Beatriz , Goenechea-Permisán Cristina
Published: September 2022

The situation of oppression and discrimination of Roma people is a fact that can be observed in many research studies. This is in conjunction with segregation and unequal educational conditions for Roma students, which do not seem to improve despite economic investment and specific intervention programmes. We understand that these situations are ever-present and structural in our society and that they segregate and exclude and become cultural, social and educational barriers for Roma students to successfully continue their academic careers until they reach university. The aim of this study was to understand the views of Roma students at a university in the south of Spain regarding the factors that had enabled them to overcome the initial difficulties they had faced during primary and secondary education, and which had acted as protective factors against educational exclusion. We have included quantitative data through the use of questionnaires, and qualitative data through the use of interviews. The results suggest that these factors are diverse, intersecting and are not mutually exclusive. Family and teacher support and the presence of a non-segregated environment, as well as personal motivation and self-awareness, are key factors. A relevant finding has been the flexibility of cultural reference models that have allowed them to navigate the exclusionary structures of the school.
Icariin: A Potential Lipid Metabolism Regulator in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Li Yusheng , Zhang Juntao , Liu Aifeng , Zhang Chao , Li Qi , Fan Fangyang , Zhang Chenglong , Liu Qi , Yang Cheng
Published: September 2022

Background: Icariin is a small molecule drug capable of treating osteoarthritis. Additionally, icariin is known to have an excellent ability to regulate lipid metabolism. A growing number of studies have demonstrated that lipid metabolism is related to the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis. Therefore, by regulating lipid metabolism, icariin may have a significant role in osteoarthritis. However, the molecular mechanism by which icariin regulates lipid metabolism in osteoarthritis is currently unknown. Understanding the molecular mechanism would be helpful in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Objective: This study aimed to explore the mechanism of icariin that regulated lipid metabolism in the treatment of osteoarthritis through a combination of molecular docking and network pharmacology. Methods: Firstly, potential targets for icariin were collected from the TCMSP database, Pharm Mapper, and Swiss Target Prediction Server. Targets for osteoarthritis and lipid metabolism were obtained in OMIM, DrugBank, and GeneCards databases. Common targets of icariin, osteoarthritis, and lipid metabolism were acquired by clusterProfiler R package software. We then constructed the drug-target-signaling pathway-disease network after performing GO and KEGG enrichment analyses of common targets. Finally, we performed molecular docking validation. To support our findings, a search of PubMed was performed to find relevant literature published within the last 5 years. Results: We obtained 12 targets that may be important in the regulation of lipid metabolism in osteoarthritis by icariin. Through PPI network analysis, it was determined that 5 core targets, including TNF, PTGS2, CCND1, MMP2, and ESR1, participated in this process. Molecular docking results showed that the icariin had a high affinity to the core target proteins. Relevant studies in the literature suggest that TNF, PTGS2, MMP2, and ESR1 are the core targets. Conclusion: Icariin is a potential modulator of lipid metabolism in osteoarthritis, and the molecular mechanism may be related to core targets such as TNF, PTGS2, MMP2, and ESR1.
Looking after our menopausal workforce: A model for NHS staff
Authors: Rymer Janice , Holloway Debra , Bruce Deborah , Bowen Joan
Published: September 2022

Objective

To determine whether a staff menopause clinic would benefit our peri/postmenopausal hospital workforce.

Methods

The three menopause consultants, with OH administration assistance, set up a virtual clinic for staff members to address the unanswered need for access to good menopause care. Feedback was gathered from the attendees and the staff who ran the clinic.

Results

The clinic was an overwhelming success and has now become an established clinic at a major London teaching hospital.

Conclusions

We hope that this model can be used in other trusts, and other companies to provide good menopause care to our senior female workforce to retain them. Acknowledgements: We would like to thank the OH staff who ensured the clinics ran so smoothly.
Perceptions of Immigrants as a Criminal Threat: The Role of Negative Affect and Ethnocentrism
Authors: Baranauskas Andrew J. , Stowell Jacob I.
Published: September 2022

A popular political narrative in the United States depicts immigrants as posing a criminal threat to the nation. This perception persists despite research showing that immigrants do not increase crime rates and may actually contribute to lower crime rates. This study seeks to examine the sources of the perception that immigrants increase crime in the United States. Drawing from research in cognitive psychology, this paper examines the affect heuristic and ethnocentrism as cognitive mechanisms through which personal feelings towards particular ethnic and religious groups shape the perception that immigrants pose a criminal threat. Using data from a nationally representative election study, findings reveal that negative feelings towards illegal immigrants, Hispanics, and Muslims are associated with the perception that immigrants increase crime rates in the U.S. Among white respondents, ethnocentrism is also associated with the perception that immigrants pose a criminal threat, even when controlling for feelings towards Hispanics and Muslims specifically. Implications for theory and research are discussed.
Hemivertebra Resection in Small Children. A Literature Review
Authors: Frank Sofía , Piantoni Lucas , Tello Carlos A , Remondino Rodrigo G , Galaretto Eduardo , Falconi Boris A , Noel Mariano A
Published: September 2022

Study design

Systematic review.

Objective

To evaluate the lowest possible age to resect an HV in very young patients with a congenital deformity.

Methods

We sought to retrieve all studies reporting age at HV excision in patients with congenital scoliosis. Studies written in English were included. No publication date restrictions were imposed. A search of the PubMed and LiLacs databases was conducted. Additionally, a hand search was performed to supplement the database search.

Results

We found 140 articles. Twenty two studies were included into the final assessment. There was considerable heterogeneity in the included studies, both regarding age and the surgical techniques used. There was also a broad spectrum of recommendations regarding suggested age for treatment. The youngest patient undergoing resection and fusion was 3 months of life at the time of surgery.

Conclusion

How young a patient could and should be submitted to HV resection surgery is still a matter of debate in the literature. Prophylactic surgery might be a proper treatment for young children with congenital scoliosis before malformation becomes a deformity, adding no additional neurological, vascular, or anesthesia-related complications. The defect can be treated early while the deformity is treated late.
Polysplenia Syndrome With Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Salma El Houss , Najwa Amsiguine , Mehdi Tantaoui , Nazik Allali , Latifa Chat , Siham El Haddad
Published: September 2022

Polysplenia syndrome is an uncommon condition associating several splenic nodules (sometimes polylobed spleen and cases of normal spleen have been described) with a number of malformations that appear between the fourth and sixth week of embryonic development. Although it has been suggested that genetic, teratogenic, and embryogenic factors may be at fault, the exact etiology remains unclear. Clinically, it is generally asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic. The authors report the case of an 11-months-old infant from a poorly monitored pregnancy. He was admitted to the emergency room for respiratory discomfort in a context of apyrexia. A thoraco-abdominal CT scanner revealed a polysplenia syndrome.