bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemosis as an Initial Presentation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Luceno Carvy Floyd , Yu Minho , Kim Daniel I. , Sandhu Vaneet K
Published: February 2022

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can present in a multitude of ways, which can be confounding and misleading for a clinician. Chemosis as an initial presentation is rare and has only been documented on a few case reports. However, when present, simultaneous involvement of other organs is likely. We present a previously healthy 29-year-old male who presented with severe bilateral chemosis and was subsequently diagnosed with SLE and antiphospholipid syndrome. Complications included multiple acute cerebral infarcts, lupus psychosis, lupus pleuritis, and lupus nephritis. The patient recovered well with appropriate treatment and chemosis ultimately resolved. Recognizing chemosis as an initial presentation of SLE is vital for appropriate evaluation and timely treatment to prevent disease progression.
Towards Induction of Angiogenesis in Dental Pulp Stem Cells Using Chitosan‐Based Hydrogels Releasing Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor
Authors: Divband Baharak , Pouya Bahareh , Hassanpour Mehdi , Alipour Mahdieh , Salehi Roya , Rahbarghazi Reza , Shahi Sahriar , Aghazadeh Zahra , Aghazadeh Marziyeh
Published: February 2022

Introduction. Chitosan is a natural biopolymer that attracted enormous attention in biomedical fields. The main components of regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs), as well as tissue engineering, are scaffolds, stem cells, and growth factors. As one of the basic factors in the REPs is maintaining vascularization, this study was aimed at developing basic fibroblast growth factor‐ (bFGF‐) loaded scaffolds and investigating their effects on the angiogenic induction in human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). Methods. Poly (ε‐caprolactone) (PCL)/chitosan‐ (CS‐) based highly porous scaffold (PCL/CS) was prepared and evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. The adhesion and survival potency of seeded cells were assessed by SEM and MTT assays, respectively. The amount of angiogenic markers was investigated in gene and protein levels by real‐time PCR and western blotting assays, respectively. Results. Based on our findings, the SEM and FTIR tests confirmed the appropriate structure of synthesized scaffolds. Besides, the adhesion and survival rate of cells and the levels of VEGFR‐2, Tie2, and Angiopoietin‐1 genes were increased significantly in the PCL/CS/bFGF group. Also, the western blotting results showed the upregulation of these markers at protein levels, which were considerably higher at the PCL/CS/bFGF group (P < 0.05). Conclusions. On a more general note, this study demonstrates that the bFGF‐loaded PCL/CS scaffolds have the potential to promote angiogenesis of hDPSCs, which could provide vitality of dentin‐pulp complex as the initial required factor for regenerative endodontic procedures.
The Minimum Size of Digraphs Satisfying Directed Cut Conditions
Authors: Ma Huawen
Published: February 2022

A directed graph (digraph)

D

of order

n

satisfies directed cut condition

D
C
C

if there are at least

S

arcs from any set

S
⊆
V

D

,

S

≤

n
/
2

to its complement

S
¯

=
V

D

/
S

. We show that a digraph

D

of even order

n

has at least

2
n
−
3

arcs if

D

satisfies

D
C
C

.
Blue Nevus of the Hard Palate: The Importance of a Careful Examination in an Emergency Setting
Authors: Tavares Ana Teresa , Pereira André , Pimentel João , Prates Marcelo , Fonseca Luís , Marques Maria Rosário , Proença Francisco
Published: February 2022

Oral common blue nevus is an asymptomatic, benign, rare, pigmented lesion and sometimes clinically indistinguishable from other pigmented lesions such as the cellular blue nevus or early-stage malignant melanoma. Since it shows clinical similarities with a malignant lesion and with cellular blue nevus that can itself suffer malignant transformation, the decisive diagnosis is crucial for adequate treatment, follow-up, and prognosis. Diagnosis confirmation is given by histological analysis, the reason why most oral pigmented lesions are excised. The following case presents an asymptomatic oral pigmented lesion of the hard palate discovered during observation in an emergency setting due to an abscess of dental origin. The lesion was fully excised, and histological examination reported a “common blue nevus.” In this case, we intend to present a rare lesion of the oral cavity and the importance of performing a routine oral examination when given a chance as a preventive approach.
Analysis of Harmonious Development of Eco‐Economic System in the Second Green Isolation Area in Beijing
Authors: Cao Shan , Zhai Qiming
Published: February 2022

The construction of green isolation areas is an important means to prevent the sprawl of central urban areas, guide the rational layout of urban green spaces, and protect the ecological environment. However, with the continuous construction advancement of green isolation areas in Beijing, the problems of mutual restriction between ecology and economy are increasingly prominent, but few studies are devoted to such problems. Taking the second green isolation area of Beijing in 2000, 2010, and 2020 as the research objects, the kilometer grids were taken as the basic research units, and the land cover data and GDP data were placed in the unified spatial coordinate system by GIS software; also, the equivalent factor method was adopted to calculate the ecological service value (ESV) of the research region, and the eco‐economic harmony degree (EEH) was calculated using the ratio of ESPpr to GDPpr. This research innovatively used the kilometer grid as the basic research unit to study the second green isolation area in Beijing and compared the harmony degree between the second green isolation area and the overall ecological, economic system of Beijing, so as to dynamically compare the ecological environment changes in the second green isolation area during the study period and the degree of mutual influence in the process of economic development. The study found that the construction of the second green isolation area improved the harmony of the eco‐economic system in a certain area, but it failed to effectively curb the spread of construction land in the urban area of Beijing. The research results can provide scientific guidance for the coordinated planning of the ecological economy in the second green isolation area.
IDH1 Mutation Induces HIF-1α and Confers Angiogenic Properties in Chondrosarcoma JJ012 Cells
Authors: Hu Xiaoyu , Li Luyuan , Eid Josiane E. , Liu Chao , Yu Jinming , Yue Jinbo , Trent Jonathan C.
Published: February 2022

Chondrosarcoma is a group of primary bone cancers that arise from transformed cells of chondrocytic lineage. Tumor recurrence and metastasis are devastating for patients with chondrosarcoma since there are no effective treatment options. IDH mutations occur in over 50% of tumors from patients with conventional or dedifferentiated chondrosarcomas and represent an attractive target for therapy. However, their role in the pathogenesis of chondrosarcoma remains largely unknown. In this study, we sought to determine the association of IDH mutation and HIF-1α in chondrosarcoma. We used the chondrosarcoma JJ012 cell line and its derived CRISPR/Cas9 mutant IDH1 (IDH1mut) knockout (KO) cells. RNA-Seq data analysis revealed downregulation of several HIF-1α target genes upon loss of IDH1mut. This was associated with reduced HIF-1α levels in the IDH1mut KO cells and tumors. Loss of IDH1mut also attenuated the expression of angiogenic markers in tumor tissues and abrogated the angiogenic capacity of JJ012 cells. Moreover, we observed that exogenous expression of HIF-1α significantly promoted anchorage-independent colony-formation by IDH1mut KO cells. These results suggest IDH1 mutation confers angiogenic and tumorigenic properties of JJ012 cells by inducing HIF-1α. Thus, the HIF pathway represents a promising candidate for combinatorial regimens to target IDH1 mutated chondrosarcomas.
Retinal Blood Vessels and Optic Disc Segmentation Using U-Net
Authors: David S. Alex , Mahesh C. , Kumar V. Dhilip , Polat Kemal , Alhudhaif Adi , Nour Majid
Published: February 2022

A color fundus image is a photograph obtained using a fundus camera of the inner wall of the eyeball. In the image, doctors may see changes in the retinal vessels, which can be used to diagnose various dangerous disorders such as arteriosclerosis, some macular degeneration related to age, and glaucoma. To diagnose certain disorders as early as possible, automatic segmentation of retinal arteries is used to help the doctors. Also, it is a challenge for the medical community to analyze the image with the right procedure to diagnose the disorders with high accuracy. Furthermore, this will help the doctor to make the right decision on effective treatment. Hence, the authors have implemented an enhanced architecture called U-Net to segment retinal vessels in this paper. The proposed conventional U-Net permits using all the accessible spatial setting information by adding the multiscale input layer and a thick square to the conventional U-Net in terms of improving the accuracy level of image segmentation. It achieved 95.6% accuracy with a comparatively traditional U-Net model. Moreover, the segmentation results have proved that the proposed approach outperformed in detecting most complex low-contrast blood vessels even when they are very thin. The task of segmenting vessels in retinal images is known as retinal vessel segmentation. Blood vessel density can be assessed using dense pixel values. Data augmentation and analytics play a major role in building the true value of eye blood vessels for medical diagnosis. The proposed method is very promising in the automatic segmentation of retinal arteries.
Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang Decoction Alleviates Ulcerative Colitis Partly by Regulating TLR4-Mediated PI3K/Akt and NF-κB Pathways
Authors: Chen Liping , Zhang Chunyu , Cao Jingjing , Bei Ge , Wang Xiaoyu , Miao Zhiwei
Published: February 2022

Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang Decoction (YFBD), an ancient prescription developed by the ancient Chinese physician, Zhang Zhongjing, has shown remarkable effects in treating ulcerative colitis (UC). However, there are few studies on its mechanism. This study was designed to explore the potential mechanism of YFBD in treating UC. The principal ingredients of YFBD were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Dextran sulfate sodium- (DSS-) induced mice and lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated RAW264.7 cells were used in the study. The body weight and disease activity index (DAI) of mice were recorded and analyzed for 10 days. After sacrifice, the colonic tissues were harvested. The colon length was measured, and the histopathological changes were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The levels of inflammatory cytokines in mice colons and RAW246.7 cells were determined by real-time quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence. The effects of YFBD on the TLR4-mediated PI3K/Akt and NF-κB pathways were determined by western blot analysis. HPLC identified five compounds in YFBD: chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, benzoylmesaconine, benzoyl aconitine, and quercetin. YFBD alleviated weight loss, colon shortening, and colonic histopathological lesion in mice. Meanwhile, it decreased the DAI and histological score of mice with UC. In addition, YFBD remarkably decreased the levels of interleukin- (IL-) 6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in the colons of DSS-induced mice and LPS-stimulated RAW246.7 cells. Furthermore, the expression of key proteins in TLR4-mediated PI3K/Akt and NF-κB pathways significantly decreased with YFBD treatment. In conclusion, YFBD had protective effects on mice with UC, which was in part related to its anti-inflammatory effects and downregulation of TLR4-mediated PI3K/Akt and NF-κB pathways.
A Classification Tree Model with Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Variables to Screen Early-Stage Diabetic Retinopathy in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Yao Hongyan , Wu Shanjun , Zhan Zongyi , Li Zijing
Published: February 2022

Aim. To establish a classification tree model in DR screening and to compare the DR screening accuracy between the classification tree model and the logistic regression model in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients based on OCTA variables. Methods. Two hundred forty-one eyes of 241 T2DM patients were included and divided into two groups: the development cohort and the validation cohort. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) images were acquired in these patients. The data of foveal avascular zone area, superficial capillary plexus (SCP) density, and deep capillary plexus (DCP) density were exported after automatically analyzing the macular 6 × 6 mm OCTA images, while the data of radial peripapillary capillary plexus (RPCP) density was exported after automatically analyzing the optic nerve head 4.5 × 4.5 mm OCTA images. These OCTA variables were adopted to establish and validate the logistic regression model and the classification tree model. The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and statistical power for receiver operating characteristic curves of two models were calculated. Results. In the logistic regression model, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (LogMAR) and SCP density were entered (BVCA : OR= 60.30, 95% CI= [2.40, 1513.82],

p

 = 0.013; SCP density: OR= 0.86, 95% CI= [0.78, 0.96],

p

 = 0.006). The AUC, sensitivity, and specificity for detecting early-stage DR (mild to moderate NPDR) in the development cohort were 0.75 (95% CI: [0.66, 0.85]), 63%, and 83%, respectively. The AUC, sensitivity, and specificity in the validation cohort were 0.75 (95% CI: [0.66, 0.84]), 79%, and 72%, respectively. In the classification tree model, BVCA (LogMAR), DM duration, SCP density, and DCP density were entered. The AUC, sensitivity, and specificity for detecting early-stage DR were 0.72 (95% CI: [0.60, 0.84]), 66%, and 76%, respectively. The AUC, sensitivity, and specificity in the validation cohort were 0.74 (95% CI: [0.65, 0.83]), 74%, and 72%, respectively. The statistical power of the development and validation cohorts in two models was all more than 99%. Conclusions. Compared to the logistic regression model, the classification tree model has similar accuracy in predicting early-stage DR. The classification tree model with OCTA variables may be a simple tool for clinical practitioners to identify early-stage DR in T2DM patients. Moreover, SCP density is significantly reduced in mild-to-moderate NPDR eyes and might be a biomarker in early-stage DR detection. Further improvement and validation of the DR diagnostic model are awaiting to be performed.
Clinical Effects of Acupuncture for Stroke Patients Recovery
Authors: Guo Xia , Cheng Bingjie
Published: February 2022

Stroke is assumed as one of the common cerebrovascular diseases that endangers human health and life. Its incidence and mortality rates are high, while survivors (50% to 70%) suffer from different degrees of disability. Hemiplegia is a common disability after stroke, mainly manifested as muscle weakness of the affected side, limb spasm, and limited activity, which severely impacts a patient’s daily life. There are various rehabilitation methods for stroke hemiplegia, including modern rehabilitation medicine, motor therapy, acupuncture, and rehabilitation robot. The cost and effect of different rehabilitation methods are not the same. It is the focus to find an economical and effective rehabilitation method. In this paper, 128 stroke patients aged 41 to 73 hospitalized between January 2019 and January 2021 were analyzed. The intervention group used standard physical therapy and traditional acupuncture therapy, and the control group only used standard physical therapy. We used RStudio 1.1.419 (RStudio Corporation) for analysis. Experimental results show that the short-term efficacy of the intervention group is better than that of the control group. The intervention group was better than the control group in recovery from injury during rehabilitation, degree of muscle spasm, self-care ability in daily life, and overall degree of damage. In the long-term efficacy analysis, we can see that with the increase in the number of acupuncture, the efficacy of the intervention group is still better than that of the control group. Compared with physical rehabilitation alone, acupuncture has better short-term, and long-term clinical effects for stroke patients improves motor dysfunction and improves the quality of life and independence of stroke patients. With the increase in the number of acupuncture treatments, the patient’s rehabilitation effect will be better.
Case Report: Pediatric Posterior Wall Acetabulum with Piriformis Entrapment
Authors: Beyer Sean , Klassen Matthew , Perry Samuel , Endres Terrence
Published: February 2022

Pediatric acetabular fractures are rare, accounting for only a small percent of pelvic injuries in children. This is a case of a 12-year-old healthy male who sustained a displaced, right posterior acetabular wall fracture following a ground-level fall. It was ultimately determined to be treated through operative management. Intraoperatively, it was noted that the displaced fragment had become trapped posterior to the piriformis muscle. This prompted the surgical release of the piriformis to mobilize the fragment. Afterward, a quarter tubular plate serving as a buttress and multiple cortical screws were placed to secure the fracture. An additional cortical screw and washer were placed for further compression and rotational stabilization. The piriformis was then repaired. The patient was made nonweight bearing for 6 weeks and seen at routine postoperative visits. At 10 weeks postoperatively, the patient had no complaints of pain or difficulty with ambulation and tolerated full range of motion within his right hip. The patient did not return for follow-up, but the mother was contacted at 1 year postoperatively, and she denied any gait or hip range of motion abnormalities within the patient. Unfortunately, no further follow-up was successfully obtained. While most pediatric pelvic injuries can be treated nonoperatively, it has been shown that nonoperative treatment has increased risk of long-term complications. Therefore, surgical consideration remains important as it presents an opportunity for fewer long-term sequelae.
Objective Response by mRECIST to Initial Lenvatinib Therapy Is an Independent Factor Contributing to Deep Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with Lenvatinib-Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization Sequential Therapy
Authors: Kuroda Hidekatsu , Oikawa Takayoshi , Ninomiya Masashi , Fujita Masashi , Abe Kazumichi , Okumoto Kazuo , Katsumi Tomohiro , Sato Wataru , Igarashi Go , Iino Chikara , Endo Tetsu , Tanabe Nobukazu , Numao Hiroshi , Fukuda Shinsaku , Iijima Katsunori , Masamune Atsushi , Ohira Hiromasa , Ueno Yoshiyuki , Takikawa Yasuhiro
Published: February 2022

Objective: There is limited information regarding the benefits of Lenvatinib-transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (LEN-TACE) sequential therapy for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (u-HCC). We compared the efficacy and safety of LEN-TACE sequential therapy to LEN monotherapy and investigated the factors contributing to the LEN-TACE sequential therapy deep response. Methods: We enrolled a multicenter cohort of 247 patients with u-HCC treated with LEN between 2018 and 2020. Propensity score matching identified 63 matching pairs of patients with well-balanced characteristics. We retrospectively compared the clinical outcomes, including overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and incidence of adverse events (AEs), between the LEN-TACE and LEN monotherapy groups. Additionally, we evaluated the tumor response, change in albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) score, factors affecting PFS and OS, and independent predictors contributing to the LEN-TACE sequential therapy deep response. In this study, at eight weeks after resumption of LEN after initial TACE, “deep response” was defined as achieving complete response or partial response (PR) on modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST), and at least a 30% decrease in the sum of diameters of target lesions, taking the baseline sum diameters as the reference. Results: The OS and PFS in the LEN-TACE group were significantly higher than those in the LEN monotherapy group (p = 0.002 and p = 0.037, respectively). The incidence of AEs related to LEN was not significantly different between the two groups. In LEN-TACE sequential therapy, the objective response rate was 61.9%, and the disease control rate was 74.6%, according to the mRECIST criteria. No significant change in the ALBI score was observed during sequential LEN-TACE therapy. Multivariable analyses revealed that deep response was independently associated with the outcome of the initial response to LEN by mRECIST: PR (odds ratio: 5.176, 95% confidence interval: 1.528–17.537, p < 0.001). Conclusions: LEN-TACE sequential therapy may provide more clinical benefits than LEN monotherapy in u-HCC patients who responded to initial LEN treatment. Objective response according to mRECIST to initial LEN is an independent factor contributing to LEN-TACE sequential therapy deep response.
Sequential Treatment Strategy Using Fluoropyrimidine plus Bevacizumab Followed by Oxaliplatin for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Phase II Study (OGSG 1107)
Authors: Yamaguchi Toshifumi , Yoshida Motoki , Kawakami Hisato , Kii Takayuki , Hasegawa Hiroko , Miyamoto Takahiro , Terazawa Tetsuji , Shimamoto Fukutaro , Yasui Masayoshi , Sakai Daisuke , Shimokawa Toshio , Kurokawa Yukinori , Goto Masahiro , Satoh Taroh
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Previous prospective studies suggest that the sequential use of cytotoxic agents, such as oxaliplatin, in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) has the potential to improve prognosis and maintain quality of life than combination chemotherapy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of a sequential treatment strategy consisting of an initial therapy (capecitabine, S-1, or 5-fluorouracil with leucovorin [LV/5-FU] plus bevacizumab) and subsequent therapy (i.e., initial therapy plus oxaliplatin) for mCRC. Methods: The primary endpoint was second progression-free survival (2nd PFS) between the start of initial therapy and tumor progression after sequential therapy; secondary endpoints were PFS after initial treatment, overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), and safety. Results: Sixty-six patients were planned to be recruited. However, owing to a slow accrual rate, recruitment was terminated when only 19 patients were enrolled between 2011 and 2015; 4, 10, and 5 patients were administered capecitabine plus bevacizumab, S-1 plus bevacizumab, and LV/5-FU plus bevacizumab, respectively. The proportions of those with a KRAS status (wild-type/mutant/unknown) were 26%, 21%, and 53%, respectively. The median 2nd PFS and OS were 19.1 months and not reached, respectively. The ORR was 45.5% in the initial therapy and 16.7% in the subsequent therapy. Grade 3/4 toxicities included neutropenia (5%), proteinuria (5%), and hypertension (47%). Conclusion: Although our data are limited and preliminary, the sequential treatment strategy may provide a survival benefit in patients with mCRC. Further investigation of this treatment approach is warranted.
Recurrent Intracranial Hypertension in a Toddler with Graves’ Disease
Authors: Vuijk Floris A. , de Bruin Christiaan , Peeters-Scholte Cacha M.P.C.D. , Notting Irene C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is characterized by increased intracranial pressure without an evident cause. Obesity and the female sex have been recognized as risk factors for the development of this syndrome. Until now, Graves’ disease has only been described in the literature as the probable cause of IIH in 7 patients. This report describes the case of a young girl with Graves’ disease presenting with symptoms of intracranial hypertension (IH). Case Presentation: A 21-month-old girl presented with progressive symptoms of poor weight gain and bilateral exophthalmos. She also experienced difficulty sleeping, diarrhea multiple times per day, irritability, and heat intolerance. Laboratory investigation showed elevated free T4, fully suppressed TSH, and elevated anti-TSH antibodies, consistent with a diagnosis of new-onset Graves’ disease. She was successfully treated with monotherapy thiamazole, titrated to the lowest possible dose of 1.25 mg once daily with normalization of thyroid function tests within 3 months of treatment initiation. After 18 months of treatment, her condition unexpectedly deteriorated as papilledema and slight esotropia were found at a routine checkup. An MRI and lumbar puncture showed increased intracranial pressure, but no underlying anatomical cause for the IH was found. Acetazolamide therapy was started, and papilledema in both eyes resolved within weeks. Unfortunately, papilledema has recurred several times over the following 2 years when attempts were made to decrease the acetazolamide dose. Discussion/Conclusion: This case report is the first to describe a very young patient who developed significant IIH in the chronic stage of Graves’ disease. IIH development seemed to be related to the progression of the Graves’ ophthalmopathy, rather than initiation of thiamazole therapy or fluctuations in serum fT4 levels.
Severity of COVID-19 Symptoms among University of Belgrade Students during the July–September 2021 Pandemic Wave: Implications for Vaccination
Authors: Paunic Mila , Filipovic Simona , Nieuwenhuis Max , Paunic Aleksandar , Pesic Marijana , Tomasevic Milena , Obradović Marija , Zikic Zorica , Laketic Vesna , Mihajlovic Mirjana , Gazibara Tatjana
Published: February 2022

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the intensity of COVID-19 symptoms during the pandemic wave during July–September 2021 and to identify factors associated with having moderate and severe symptoms of COVID-19 among affected students in the University of Belgrade. Material and Methods: This study was carried out at the Institute for Students’ Health (ISH) in Belgrade, Serbia. The ISH is the referral institution for health care delivery at primary and secondary levels. This analysis includes students who presented from July 1 until September 30, 2021, when the latest pandemic wave of COVID-19 was observed among university students. Data were extracted from students’ electronic medical records. Three levels of COVID-19 symptom intensity were defined: mild, moderate, and severe. Results: Of students seeking medical care at the ISH who were diagnosed with COVID-19, 27.3% had mild disease and the majority, 59.3%, had moderate disease, and 13.4% had severe symptoms. Of all students, 124 (21.8%) were fully vaccinated with 2 doses of Sinopharm (81, 60.9%), Pfizer-BioNTech (38, 28.6%), Sputnik V (7, 5.3%), or the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine (7, 5.3%). The multiple multinomial regression model suggests that students who were vaccinated against COVID-19 were 78% less likely to develop moderate symptoms and 96% less likely to develop severe symptoms of COVID-19. Conclusion: Students who are vaccinated against COVID-19 are at lower risk of developing moderate and severe symptoms of the disease.
An in vitro Study on the Contractility of Epileptic Myometrium and Effects of Antiepileptic Agents on Oxytocin-Induced Contractions of Myometrium Isolated from Absence Epileptic WAG/Rij Rats
Authors: Kurt Aysegul , Salihoglu Arif Kamil , Ayar Ahmet
Published: February 2022

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to determine whether spontaneous and stimulated contractile activity of myometrium in epileptic rats is different from healthy ones, and whether antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have any direct influence on myometrial contractility. Methods: Myometrial strips from nonpregnant and pregnant adult epileptic WAG/Rij and Wistar rats were suspended in organ bath containing physiological salt solution (37°C and pH 7.4, aerated with 95% oxygen-5% CO2), and isometric contractions were recorded. Effects of cumulative concentrations of selected AEDs including phenytoin, levetiracetam, and valproic acid alone and in combination on oxytocin-induced contractions was examined. Contractile parameters assessed included the area under curve, amplitude, and frequency of contractions, evaluated by 10-min periods. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey HSD test. Results: Spontaneous myometrial contractility and responses to oxytocin showed species difference. Compared with that of control Wistar rats, spontaneous contractions of myometrium from nonpregnant epileptic WAG/Rij rats were significantly higher while being significantly lower in pregnant preparations. Upon stimulation with oxytocin, WAG/Rij myometrium showed significantly lower contractile response compared with preparations from healthy control Wistars (p < 0.01). Phenytoin and valproate caused concentration-dependent significant attenuation (p < 0.05) of spontaneous and oxytocin-induced contractions of myometrium from WAG/Rij and Wistar rats, both nonpregnant and pregnant. Conclusion: Myometrial smooth muscle from epileptic rats showed different spontaneous and oxytocin-induced contractility, and AEDs showed contractile modulatory actions, phenytoin being the most and levetiracetam the least effective. Although in vitro, our findings may be of clinical implications with regard to obstetric complications in epileptics and use of AEDs during pregnancy, and warrants further investigations.
Does the Stoic Body Have a Head?
Authors: Niles T.R.
Published: February 2022

The interpretation of the Christology of Colossians in modern scholarship has depended to a certain extent upon an analysis of Stoic philosophy as a potential conceptual background for the affirmation in Col 1:18a that Christ is “the head of the body.” If the “body” spoken of here is the body of the cosmos as the Stoics understood it, then Christ must be its “cosmic head.” This article examines whether this works on Stoicism’s own terms; that is, would a Stoic have advanced the notion that the cosmic body has a head?
First ecological assessment of the endangered Lichtenfelder’s Tiger Gecko (Goniurosaurus lichtenfelderi) from northern Vietnam: micro-habitat and macro-climatic niche comparisons between island and mainland populations
Authors: Ngo Hai Ngoc , Nguyen Huy Quoc , Phan Tien Quang , Rödder Dennis , Gewiss Laurenz R. , Nguyen Truong Quang , Ziegler Thomas
Published: February 2022

The Lichtenfelder’s Tiger Gecko, Goniurosaurus lichtenfelderi is currently known only from northern Vietnam and southern China. Because of its restricted distribution, the species is potentially threatened by extinction due to anthropogenic impacts. Recently, the species has been listed in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as “Vulnerable” and included in CITES Appendix II and the Vietnam Governmental Decree – Group IIB. However, conservation activities to safeguard wild populations of G. lichtenfelderi have not yet been implemented due to a lack of detailed information about the population status and its ecological requirements. In this study, the micro-habitat use of G. lichtenfelderi was assessed. As a result of our field surveys, we found this species in evergreen forest areas with a high percentage of vegetation coverage and in close proximity to medium or small stream sections with rocky shelters on granitic formations. Canopy coverage, three micro-climatic variables (air, substrate temperature and humidity), weather condition and substrate type were the most important characteristics explaining the variation in the micro-habitat use of G. lichtenfelderi. Coupled with a macro-ecological (climate niche) approach, the complex niches of G. lichtenfelderi were defined by comparing them between two geographically distant populations in island and mainland sites. We found high similarities in macro-climatic and micro-habitat niches between the island and mainland populations of G. lichtenfelderi. Based on the ecological information, we recommend conservation actions to protect the core refugia of G. lichtenfelderi and reduce negative influences of anthropogenic impacts on wild populations in the future.
Global Capitalism and Transnational Class Conflict
Authors: Harris Jerry
Published: February 2022

Integrated global capitalism has emerged over the past forty years as the dominant economic system. This world system was constructed by the transnational capitalist class, which established hegemonic political and cultural power in both the Global North and South. Nevertheless, competition and contradictions characterize global capitalism, within and between classes as well as nation states.
Macro-regional Sovereignty? China, the USA, the EU
Authors: Hrubec Marek
Published: February 2022

This article deals with a new practical philosophy of interactions between the West and China. It explains a new reconfiguration of three kinds of strategic relations: competition, adversary, and cooperation. It analyzes the concept of strategic sovereignty as self-reliance of major powers in key activities, which is expected to be an appropriate ultimate framework of their interactions. The article deals with the process of development of economic connections and interdependence of China and the West since the 1970s, and with its recent partial fragmentation. It explains the current approaches of the US, the EU, and China and also their prospects for the next years. Finally, the article considers the transformation of the world towards a larger sovereignty of macro-regions (the US, the EU, China) within the framework of global interactions.
Competition with Egyptian Religious Ideas in the Letter of Aristeas
Authors: Honigman Sylvie
Published: February 2022

The article examines afresh statements defining the divine persona of the god of the Judeans in Let. Aris. 9–34 and 128–171. They are interpreted not simply as instances of positive competition with Greek literature and philosophy, but as the product of a triangulated cultural dynamic that also included Egyptian and Greco-Egyptian religious tenets about major Egyptian deities, first and foremost Isis. The said passages in Aristeas are compared with Isidorus’ hymns to Isis Nermouthis in Narmouthis, the archives of Ḥor, and the Isis aretalogies. It is claimed that Aristeas illustrates how Alexandrian Judean authors competed with Egyptian priests and Greco-Egyptian authors in their respective pursuit of cultural acknowledgment by the socially and culturally dominant group, namely the Greeks. Aristeas replicates the Ptolemies’ “double-faced” dynastic identity, but aims to replace the Egyptian half of this double face with a Judean one.
About the identity of Cnicus firmus (Asteraceae, Cardueae)
Authors: GUACCHIO EMANUELE DEL , CAPUTO PAOLO , IAMONICO DUILIO
Published: February 2022

N/A
Validation of Panus bambusinus and P. roseus (Panaceae, Polyporales)
Authors: VINJUSHA N.  , KUMAR T.K. ARUN
Published: February 2022

N/A
Three new species of pagurid hermit crabs (Decapoda: Anomura: Paguroidea) from the Northern Mariana Islands, Micronesia
Authors: KOMAI TOMOYUKI , MILLER ALLISON K. , MALAY MARIA CELIA D.
Published: February 2022

We describe three new species of hermit crab of the pagurid genera, Catapagurus A. Milne-Edwards, 1880, Nematopagurus A. Milne-Edwards & Bouvier, 1892 and Pagurixus Melin, 1939, on the basis of material collected during the scientific cruise to the Northern Mariana Islands conducted by the U.S. National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in 2015. Catapagurus tenuilamina n. sp., referred to the C. ensifer Henderson, 1893 species group, appears close to C. granulatus Edmondson, 1951, but differs from the latter in the more slender ultimate article of the antennular peduncle, more slender dactyli of pereopods 2 and 3, and the possession of two dorsal subdistal spines in the meri of the pereopods. Nematopagurus marianicus n. sp. resembles N. gardineri Alcock, 1905 and N. lewinsohni Türkay, 1986, but is distinguished from the latter two by the characteristic dense setation on the upper part of the left cheliped carpus and by the elongate dactyli of pereopods 2 and 3 that lack a row of bristle-like setae on the dorsal margins. Pagurixus eminens n. sp. is referred to the P. boninensis Melin, 1939 species group and appears closest to P. annulus Komai & Poupin, 2013, but is differentiated from the latter in the shape and ornamentation of the right coxa of pereopod 5 in the male as well as details of the colour pattern on the chelipeds and ambulatory legs. Partial sequences of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene from the three new species were sequenced and deposited in the GenBank database for future genetic and phylogenetic study.
Preoperative Statin Use is Associated With Lower Incidence of Limb Loss After Lower Extremity Endovascular Interventions
Authors: Zil-E-Ali Ahsan , Medina Daniela , Orozco David , Yang Qian , Aziz Faisal
Published: February 2022

Background

Statin therapy is the primary lipid-lowering agent used in peripheral artery disease (PAD) patients. Although the benefits of statins have been described in the literature, most studies have focused on postoperative statin use and outcomes in major upper body vasculature. Our study aimed to assess the impact of statin therapy on postoperative outcomes of lower extremity endovascular interventions including mortality and amputation rates.

Methods

American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database from 2012 to 2019 was utilized for this study. Patients were divided into 2 groups: those on preoperative statins (Group I) and those not on statins (Group II). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess statin’s effect on postoperative outcomes.

Results

A total of 12,217 patients (72.7%) were in Group I and 4599 patients (27.3%) were in Group II. The distribution of primary outcomes was as follows: Amputation (Group I: 3% vs Group II: 3.9%, P <.05) and Mortality (Group I: 1.6% vs Group II: 1.9%, P = .086). Statin use was associated with decreased amputation rates. Patients with tissue loss were 5 times more likely to undergo amputations (AOR: 5.58 [CI 2.29-13.63] P < .01) within 30-days postoperatively as compared to those whose presenting symptoms were claudication.

Conclusion

Statin therapy was associated with a decreased limb loss within 30-days after intervention at the time of lower extremity endovascular intervention. Patients presenting with rest pain and tissue loss had a higher incidence of limb loss than claudicants.
Do Natural Resources Really Cause Civil Conflict? Evidence from the New Global Resources Dataset
Authors: Denly Michael , Findley Michael G. , Hall Joelean , Stravers Andrew , Walsh James Igoe
Published: February 2022

Scholars have long examined the relationship between natural resources and conflict at the country level. More recently, researchers have turned to subnational analyses, using either individual countries or subnational data for a small number of resources in sub-Saharan Africa. We introduce a new sub-national dataset of [Formula: see text] resources that adds many resource types, locations, and countries from Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Latin America, and Europe. To demonstrate the value of the new dataset, we examine how conflict incidence varies with the value of the collective set of resources in a given location using world prices. We then introduce new country-specific price data, which are more relevant for conflict dynamics. Since country-specific prices can be endogenous to conflict, we instrument country-specific prices using U.S. and world prices. We find that sub-national resource wealth is associated with higher levels of conflict using some specifications, though the results vary widely by data source and world region. Using an instrumental variables strategy lends the strongest support to this positive relationship, but only for African countries. Notably, across all of our models, we find that resources are negatively associated with conflict in Latin America, suggesting heterogeneity of effects worth future exploration.
Does Language Foster Reconciliation? Evidence From the Former Yugoslavia
Authors: Kumove Michael
Published: February 2022

Despite a surge in research on post-conflict reconciliation, the specific factors which promote reconciliation remain a subject of debate. In particular, the possible role of shared language in fostering reconciliation has received little scholarly attention. This paper examines two possible channels through which shared language may facilitate reconciliation, and tests these using a new survey dataset of 446 individuals from Serbia. As expected, the results indicated that shared language reduces the negative effect of conflict on intergroup trust and friendship, two crucial components of reconciliation. Furthermore, the results suggest that in the former Yugoslavia this effect is generated by the communication-enabling aspects of a shared language, rather than its other properties such as acting as a marker of ethnic or cultural identity.
A case of Weil's disease presenting as Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Authors: Payra Biswajit , Aggarwal Ramesh , Ghotekar L H , Islam Sheikh Yasir , Kumar Pradeep , Sidharth S
Published: February 2022

Leptospirosis presents in a biphasic manner: an early leptospiraemic phase and a late immune phase. In its severe form, it presents with multi-organ failure, also known as Weil's disease. Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is an autoimmune hypersensitive reaction leading to diffuse fluid filled vesicle formation with detachment of skin and mucous membrane. Though SJS is triggered by different infections and drugs, its association with leptospirosis is not frequently reported. Here we present such a case.
Jeong and Han: The Clinical Implications of Postcolonial Theology on Suffering and Oppression
Authors: Pak Jenny H.
Published: February 2022

The new wave of Asian/Asian American postcolonial, feminist scholarship provides a route to engage in critical dialogue, raising awareness that essentialist notions of race, class, ethnicity, gender, and religion fail to account for the complex and dynamic social reality individuals with bicultural/hybrid identity face. Because American psychology in general and integration of theology and psychology in particular has traditionally taken a detached stance toward the culture of the “other,” for this article Joh’s (2006) seminal work, Heart of the Cross: A Postcolonial Christology, was selected to amplify a much-needed perspective and cultural sensibility. Grounded in feminist theology, the Korean concept of jeong, a complex, multidimensional meaning of relationality, is used to dismantle the divide between self and other, love and hate, oppressed and oppressor; in this way, the traditional atonement theory and the cross is reconceptualized so that Christ fully embodies radical, inclusive love that offers a new vision of wholeness and life for those suffering from individual and collective oppression. As theology holds potential for the integration necessary in therapy for healing and restoration, this article offers a resource for clinicians interested in expanding the language and horizon of integration—not just with Korean clients, but more broadly beyond white, normative borders.
Political authority and resistance to injustice: A Confucian perspective
Authors: Ip Kevin K W
Published: February 2022

Those who bear the burdens of injustice and oppression are entitled to act in ways contrary to existing laws and institutions to secure their own entitlements and those of others. This article aims to articulate a Confucian perspective on resistance against injustice. There are reasons for thinking that the notion of resistance is fundamentally at odds with Confucian political thought. In this article, I move beyond this simple conflict/compatibility model and explore the complex relationships between resistance and Confucianism. On one hand, some of Confucianism’s core commitments can be better attained in contemporary societies by allowing resistance; on the other, a Confucian perspective can offer insights into current discussions on the ethics of resistance.
Management of noncerebral malperfusion complicating acute type A dissection
Authors: Shiiya Norihiko
Published: February 2022

Vital organ malperfusion in acute type A aortic dissection is associated with worse outcomes, especially when multiple organ systems are involved, and when coronary or mesenteric malperfusion is present. To achieve the two goals of central aortic repair and adequate and timely reperfusion, mechanism and organ-specific strategy in the methods and sequence of repair should be considered. For dynamic aortic malperfusion, reperfusion can be quickly achieved by femoral artery perfusion, and the fenestrated frozen elephant trunk operation, in which the proximal end of device is secured to zone 1 or 2 and distal 1 or 2 supra-aortic vessels are preserved by fenestration of the fabric, seems optimal as a method of central aortic repair. For coronary malperfusion, percutaneous coronary intervention before central aortic repair may have a role. However, it should be kept in mind that the door-to-unloading time is also important to reduce the area of myocardial infarction, and retrograde cardioplegia is not distributed to most of the right ventricle, which can be critical when right coronary malperfusion is present. Static mesenteric malperfusion should be addressed first, and second-look laparotomy should not be hesitated after central aortic repair. The use of a hybrid operating room may be an optimal solution to achieve both goals.
Effectiveness of a bandage to prevent re-dislocation after total hip arthroplasty in patients with a previous hip dislocation. A randomized controlled trial with 12-week follow-up
Authors: Mechlenburg Inger , Knak Jens , Mosegaard Sebastian Breddam , Axelsen Mette , Krarup Jensen Niels , Hansen Torben Bæk , Stilling Maiken
Published: February 2022

Objective

To investigate if using a hip bandage is more effective than standard care in the prevention of total hip arthroplasty re-dislocation in patients with a previous total hip arthroplasty dislocation.

Design

randomized controlled trial

Setting

Holstebro Regional Hospital and Viborg Regional Hospital

Subjects

A total of 99 patients, 51 women, mean 70.7 (SD 9.9) years were enrolled in an un-blinded, clinical randomized controlled trial.

Interventions

Participants with at least one previous total hip arthroplasty dislocation were randomized to either wearing a bandage reducing flexion, adduction, and internal rotation of the hip (intervention group) or to standard care (control group). The participants were followed for 12 weeks. Main follow-up measures were as follows: number of re-dislocations (primary outcome), hip disability measured with the Oxford Hip Score (0–48, 48 best), quality of life measured with the 36-Item Short Form Survey (0–100, 100 best), satisfaction with treatment and serious adverse events. Statistical analyses followed the intention-to-treat principle.

Results

No significant group differences were observed for the primary outcome re-dislocations (9 versus 15, P = 0.143) or for disability (11.3 versus 14.4, P = 0.161), quality of life (57.7 versus 48.3, P = 0.050) or satisfaction with treatment ( P = 0.562). There were 3 serious adverse events leading to total hip arthroplasty revision in the intervention group and 4 in the control group.

Conclusion

We found that a hip bandage is not superior to standard care in the prevention of total hip arthroplasty re-dislocation in those with a previous total hip arthroplasty dislocation.