bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Efficacy and Mechanism of Qinghua Jianpi Recipe in Inhibiting Canceration of Colorectal Adenoma Based on Inflammatory Cancer Transformation
Authors: Liu Ting , You Juping , Gao Qingjian , Zhang Yufeng , Xu Wei , Kong Desong , Chen Li , Yuan Bao , Hua Haibing
Published: February 2023

Objective. This study is aimed at exploring the effect of Qinghua Jianpi Recipe on preventing colon polyp recurrence and inhibiting the progress of “inflammatory cancer transformation.” And another goal is to explore the changes of intestinal flora structure and intestinal inflammatory (immune) microenvironment of mice with colon polyps treated by Qinghua Jianpi Recipe and to clarify its mechanism. Methods. Clinical trials were conducted to confirm the therapeutic effect of Qinghua Jianpi Recipe on patients with inflammatory bowel disease. The inhibitory effect of Qinghua Jianpi Recipe on “inflammatory cancer transformation” of colon cancer was confirmed by an adenoma canceration mouse model. Histopathological examination was used to evaluate the effects of Qinghua Jianpi Recipe on intestinal inflammatory state, adenoma number, and pathological changes of adenoma model mice. The changes of inflammatory indexes in intestinal tissue were tested by ELISA. Intestinal flora was detected by 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing. Short-chain fatty acid metabolism in the intestine was analyzed by targeted metabolomics. Network pharmacology analysis of possible mechanism of Qinghua Jianpi Recipe on colorectal cancer was performed. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of the related signaling pathways. Results. Qinghua Jianpi Recipe can significantly improve intestinal inflammation status and function in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Qinghua Jianpi Recipe could significantly improve the intestinal inflammatory activity and pathological damage of adenoma model mice and reduce the number of adenoma. Qinghua Jianpi Recipe significantly increased the levels of Peptostreptococcales_Tissierellales, NK4A214_group, Romboutsia, and other intestinal flora after intervention. Meanwhile, the treatment group of Qinghua Jianpi Recipe could reverse the changes of short-chain fatty acids. Network pharmacology analysis and experimental studies showed that Qinghua Jianpi Recipe inhibited the “inflammatory cancer transformation” of colon cancer by regulating intestinal barrier function-related proteins, inflammatory and immune-related signaling pathways, and free fatty acid receptor 2 (FFAR2). Conclusion. Qinghua Jianpi Recipe can improve the intestinal inflammatory activity and pathological damage of patient and adenoma cancer model mice. And its mechanism is related to the regulation of intestinal flora structure and abundance, short-chain fatty acid metabolism, intestinal barrier function, and inflammatory pathways.
Production and Sensory Evaluation of Mixed Spices from Selected Local Spices Retailed in Ede, Nigeria
Authors: Dawodu Olufunke , Abibu Moshood , Ajayi Josephine , Elias Teslimah
Published: February 2023

Spices are essential group of agricultural products used to enrich taste and enhance nutritional contents of foods and beverages. Spices for various types of food were produced naturally from local available plant materials which have been used since the Middle Ages for flavoring, food additives and preservation, supplement, and/or medicinal purposes. Six spices, namely, Capsicum annuum (yellow pepper), Piper nigrum (black pepper), Zingiber officinale (ginger), Ocimum gratssimum (scent leaf), castor seed (ogiri), and Murraya koenigii (curry leaf), were selected in their natural forms for the production single spices and mixed spices. These spices were used to determine sensory evaluation on suggested staple food like rice, spaghetti, and Indomie pasta, on a nine-point hedonic scale comprising of taste, texture, aroma, saltiness, mouthfeel, and general acceptability. The results for the sensory evaluation for single and mixed spices were tabulated with value range from least to highest and showed that the mixed spice combinations were preferred to the single spice.
Association of Androgen-Receptor Gene Mutations with the Copy Number of Androgen-Receptor Silk Protein A Complex and Glutathione-S-Transferases T1 and M1 in Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Zhang Yan , Meng Xiangdi , Ma Zhaosen , Sun Zhou , Wang Zhixin
Published: February 2023

Objective. The purpose of our work was to explore the association of mutations in the androgen receptor gene and copy numbers of the androgen-receptor silk protein A complex with glutathione-S-transferases T1 and M1 in prostate cancer patients. Materials and Methods. Eighty-five patients with PC and 85 healthy controls were included in the study. Fasting peripheral venous blood was collected, whole blood genomic DNA was extracted, and AR gene-receptor genotype was detected by a high-resolution melting curve analysis detection technology. Expression levels of androgen receptor (AR) and filamin protein A (FlnA) were detected by Western blotting. RT-PCR was used to detect the copy number of T1 and M1 glutathione-S-transferases. Results. The wild-type androgen receptor gene rs5918762 is of TT type. The frequencies of CC and TC genes in the prostate cancer group were significantly higher than those in the normal control group

P
<
0.05

. Compared with TT-type PC patients, PC patients with TC-type and CC-type had higher expression levels of sex hormone receptor silk protein A complex and higher copy numbers of GSTT1 and GSTM1

P
<
0.05

. Androgen-receptor gene mutation (T ⟶ C) was significantly positively correlated with the expression level of androgen-receptor silk protein A complex and the copy number of GSTT1 and GSTM1. Conclusion. Androgen-receptor gene polymorphisms were significantly associated with expression levels of androgen receptor complex A and silk proteins, and copy numbers of T1 and M1 glutathione-S-transferases. A combination of four factors can be used to identify prostate cancer susceptibility and disease progression.
Floristic Composition and Structural Analysis of Woody Plant Species in Jib Godo Natural Forest, Farta District, South Gonder Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Wubu Kassaw Awoke , Matavan Ramaraj Elango , Anteneh Endale Adamu
Published: February 2023

Afromontane forests are crucial for maintaining plant diversity and reducing climate change. Even though the Jib Godo Natural Forest is subject to anthropogenic impacts such as cutting and farming, it lacks long-term conservation practices. The researchers conducted fieldwork in Jib Godo Natural Forest to investigate the floristic composition and structural analyses of woody plant species in Ethiopia. The vegetation and environmental data were collected from 50 (20 m × 20 m) sample plots established for woody species at every 100 m along seven transect lines and 5 m × 5 m in five subplots for saplings and seedlings using a systematic sampling procedure. In each sample plot, soil samples were obtained from 0–20 cm and mixed to generate a composite sample. A vegetative structural analysis of DBH, height, and stem IVI was computed. There were 65 species of woody plant identified, belonging to 58 genera and 41 families, with 34 species (52.30 percent) being trees, 23 species (35.38 percent) being shrubs, and 8 species (12.30 percent) being lianas. Outside of the sample plot, four other species were identified. Only eleven environmental characteristics were significant at

p

 < 0.05, according to the results of canonical correspondence analysis (CCA). In conclusion, the distribution of plant communities and the composition of the species depend on altitude and topographic aspects. The forest’s population structure and regeneration condition suggested that the area had experienced forest degradation and severe anthropogenic disturbances; therefore, the conservation of species and sustainable use of forest genetic resources are advocated as a result of this study’s findings.
The Cut-Off Value of Serum Anti-Müllerian Hormone Levels for the Diagnosis of Turner Syndrome with Spontaneous Puberty
Authors: Wang Jin , Lan Tian , Dai Xiang , Yang Luhong , Hu Xijiang , Yao Hui
Published: February 2023

Objective. Preservation of fertility in Turner syndrome (TS) patients may be feasible through cryopreservation of ovarian tissue before follicles begin to disappear. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is said to be a predictive factor of spontaneous pubertal development in TS. We aimed to determine the cut-off values of AMH for the diagnosis of TS girls with spontaneous puberty. Design and methods: A total of 95 TS patients between 4 and 17 years were evaluated at the Department of Pediatric Genetic Metabolism and Endocrinology from July 2017 to March 2022. Serum AMH, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were analyzed according to age, karyotype, pubertal development, and ultrasound ovarian visualization. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyzes were used to test the utility of AMH for the diagnosis of TS girls with spontaneous puberty. Results. One-fourth of TS girls aged 8–17 years had spontaneous breast development, with the ratios as follows: 45, X (6/28, 21.4%), mosaicism (7/12, 58.3%), and mosaicism with structural X chromosome abnormalities (SCA) (2/13, 15.4%), SCA (1/13, 7.7%), and Y chromosome (1/3, 33.3%). The AMH cut-off value for the prediction of spontaneous puberty in TS patients was 0.07 ng/ml, with sensitivity and specificity both at 88%. FSH, LH levels, and Karyotypes could not be considered as markers of spontaneous puberty in TS (

P
>
0.05

). A strong relationship was observed between serum AMH levels and spontaneous puberty or ultrasound bilateral ovarian visualization. Conclusions. The AMH cut-off value for the prediction of spontaneous puberty in TS girls aged 8–17 years was 0.07 ng/ml, with sensitivity and specificity both at 88%. However, spontaneous puberty in these patients is not predictable based on karyotype or FSH or LH levels.
Motivations and Limitations of Pursuing a Career in Psychiatry: A Cross-Sectional Study from the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Javaid Syed Fahad , Al Mugaddam Fadwa , Ahmed Hind Mohd , Alkharoossi Amani , Amiri Leena
Published: February 2023

Background. The global burden of mental disorders continues to grow with significant health, social, and economic consequences. Unfortunately, the gap between the need for mental healthcare and its provision remains wide all over the world. The recruitment and retention of psychiatrists is a long-standing concern in the United Arab Emirates, with social stigma playing a potential role. This study is aimed at investigating the factors that affect psychiatrists’ choice of psychiatry as an area of practice in the United Arab Emirates. Methods. This cross-sectional study was undertaken using an anonymized 30-item online questionnaire. Ethical approval was obtained from the United Arab Emirates University Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee prior to participant recruitment. We recruited qualified psychiatrists currently working in the United Arab Emirates. The structured questionnaire assessed the participants’ sociodemographic factors and reasons for choosing psychiatry. Statistical analysis, including Pearson correlations and chi-square tests, was performed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 26. Results. We found that the doctors trained in the United Arab Emirates were statistically more likely to face opposition to specializing in psychiatry (

p

value < 0.001). Participants with a family member or friend as a psychiatrist were more likely to choose psychiatry as a first-choice specialty (

p

value 0.01). Psychiatrists below the age of 35 were more statistically likely to face opposition to their decision to specialize in psychiatry (

p

value 0.006). Psychiatrists who regretted their decision to specialize in psychiatry were statistically more likely to feel this way in their first year of residency (

p

value < 0.001). Conclusions. Multiple sociodemographic factors influence responses to the decision to specialize in psychiatry in the United Arab Emirates. Younger people and people who studied in or were a citizen of the United Arab Emirates were more likely to face opposition to their decision to specialize in psychiatry, indicating why there are such high rates of psychiatrists from overseas in the United Arab Emirates and shortages in the profession.
Genomic Biomarkers Associated with Response to Induction Chemotherapy in Patients with Localized Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ecker Brett L. , Tao Alice J. , Janssen Quisette P. , Walch Henry S. , Court Colin M. , Balachandran Vinod P. , Crane Christopher H. , D'Angelica Michael I. , Drebin Jeffrey A. , Kingham T. Peter , Soares Kevin C. , Iacobuzio-Donahue Christine A. , Vakiani Efsevia , Gonen Mithat , O'Reilly Eileen M. , Varghese Anna M. , Jarnagin William R. , Wei Alice C.
Published: February 2023

Purpose:

There is increasing use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the management of localized pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), yet there are few validated biomarkers to guide therapy selection. We aimed to determine whether somatic genomic biomarkers predict response to induction FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel.

Experimental Design:

This single-institution cohort study included consecutive patients (N = 322) with localized PDAC (2011–2020) who received at least one cycle of FOLFIRINOX (N = 271) or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel (N = 51) as initial treatment. We assessed somatic alterations in four driver genes (KRAS, TP53, CDKN2A, and SMAD4) by targeted next-generation sequencing, and determined associations between these alterations and (1) rate of metastatic progression during induction chemotherapy, (2) surgical resection, and (3) complete/major pathologic response.

Results:

The alteration rates in driver genes KRAS, TP53, CDKN2A, and SMAD4 were 87.0%, 65.5%, 26.7%, and 19.9%, respectively. For patients receiving first-line FOLFIRINOX, SMAD4 alterations were uniquely associated with metastatic progression (30.0% vs. 14.5%; P = 0.009) and decreased rate of surgical resection (37.1% vs. 66.7%; P < 0.001). For patients receiving induction gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel, alterations in SMAD4 were not associated with metastatic progression (14.3% vs. 16.2%; P = 0.866) nor decreased rate of surgical resection (33.3% vs. 41.9%; P = 0.605). Major pathologic response was rare (6.3%) and not associated with type of chemotherapy regimen.

Conclusions:

SMAD4 alterations were associated with more frequent development of metastasis and lower probability of reaching surgical resection during neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX but not gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel. Confirmation in a larger, diverse patient cohort will be important before prospective evaluation of SMAD4 as a genomic biomarker to guide treatment selection.
CD8
+
T Cells Promote Pathological Angiogenesis in Ocular Neovascular Disease
Authors: Deliyanti Devy , Figgett William A. , Gebhardt Thomas , Trapani Joseph A. , Mackay Fabienne , Wilkinson-Berka Jennifer L.
Published: February 2023

Background:

CD4
+
(cluster of differentation) and CD8
+
T cells are increased in the ocular fluids of patients with neovascular retinopathy, yet their role in the disease process is unknown.

Methods:

We describe how CD8
+
T cells migrate into the retina and contribute to pathological angiogenesis by releasing cytokines and cytotoxic factors.

Results:

In oxygen-induced retinopathy, flow cytometry revealed the numbers of CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cells were increased in blood, lymphoid organs, and retina throughout the development of neovascular retinopathy. Interestingly, the depletion of CD8
+
T cells but not CD4
+
T cells reduced retinal neovascularization and vascular leakage. Using reporter mice expressing gfp (green fluorescence protein) in CD8
+
T cells, these cells were localized near neovascular tufts in the retina, confirming that CD8
+
T cells contribute to the disease. Furthermore, the adoptive transfer of CD8
+
T cells deficient in TNF (tumor necrosis factor), IFNγ (interferon gamma), Prf (perforin), or GzmA/B (granzymes A/B) into immunocompetent

Rag1
−/−

mice revealed that CD8
+
T cells mediate retinal vascular disease via these factors, with TNF influencing all aspects of vascular pathology. The pathway by which CD8
+
T cells migrate into the retina was identified as CXCR3 (C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 3) with the CXCR3 blockade reducing the number of CD8
+
T cells within the retina and retinal vascular disease.

Conclusions:

We discovered that CXCR3 is central to the migration of CD8
+
T cells into the retina as the CXCR3 blockade reduced the number of CD8
+
T cells within the retina and vasculopathy. This research identified an unappreciated role for CD8
+
T cells in retinal inflammation and vascular disease. Reducing CD8
+
T cells via their inflammatory and recruitment pathways is a potential treatment for neovascular retinopathies.
Optimal Scheduling of Multi-Source Combined System with Pumped Storage Based on Improved Black Hole Algorithm
Authors: Li Zheng , Zheng Yongqiang , Wang Wenbin , Fan Zeng
Published: February 2023

With the high-penetration and large-scale renewable energy sources access to the grid, the supply and demand imbalance caused by their uncertainty is becoming increasingly serious, so a wind-pv-hydropower-thermal-pumped storage joint optimal dispatch model is established to alleviate
this problem. The output power of each unit is optimized with the minimum cost of power generation, pollutant treatment and renewable energy abandonment as the optimization objectives. An improved black hole algorithm (IBHA) is proposed by introducing cross operation, mutation operation and
inertia parameters into the black hole algorithm (BHA), which is used to obtain the optimal solution and coordinate various energy and energy storage devices. The operation results illustrate that the optimization strategy can effectively reduce the power abandonment rate, the operation cost,
and the influence of seasonal variation on the system while suppressing the power fluctuation. Comparing the results of the two cases, the renewable energy abandonment rate of the system has been effectively reduced after adding pumped storage energy, which is kept below 4%, the improved algorithm
improves the solution accuracy and shortens the solution time.
A New Photonic Scheme for Precoding-Free Vector Millimeter Wave Signal Generation Based on a Dual Parallel Phase Modulator
Authors: Hu Haifeng , Liu Baoju , Wang Dongfei
Published: February 2023

We proposed and verified a simple precoding-less scheme to generate quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) modulated vector millimeter-wave signal based on a dual parallel phase modulators (PM). The electrical vector data was first up-converted to achieve a 12 GHz radio frequency (RF)
vector signal, then the RF vector signal was added with the other unmodulated RF source at 18 GHz, of which the generations were enabled by a digital signal processing (DSP). Next, the coupled RF source drove a PM to generate multi-frequency optical sidebands. A wavelength selective switch
was adopted to pick out two optical sidebands at different frequencies which would beat frequency in the photodetector (PD). In this scheme, we set up a simulation platform to generate 48 GHz QPSK modulated vector millimeter-wave signals and analyzed the performance. The results showed when
the input power for the generated 1-Gbaud/s vector millimeter-wave into PD is not less than −18 dBm, the bit-error ratio could be below 3.8×10−3, which demonstrated that the generated vector millimeter-wave signal enabled by our proposed scheme could work well.
Fabrication of Au Nanoparticles Coated Metal Fiber for the Solid-Phase Microextraction and Determination of Lamotrigine in Complex Matrixes
Authors: Feng Zufei , Wang Haixiu , Hu Yangfan , Yang Qian , Zou Yiming , Zhao Yingjuan , Yang Rong
Published: February 2023

A solid phase microextraction fiber (SPME) with gold nanoparticles coatings (AuNPs) was prepared based on stainless-steel fiber by chemical deposition. In order to greatly increase the specific surface area of the stainless-steel fiber, the porous fiber were formed by hydrofluoric acid
treatment and aqua regia-dopamine treatment after AuNPs coating. Thus, the porous gold coated SPME with large specific surface area, strong bonding and controllable thickness were prepared. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and elements analysis were used to characterize. Under the optimized
conditions, the prepared fibers exhibited good precision, wide linear ranges, acceptable recoveries, and low limits of detection for lamotrigine. The results verified that this novel coating was a promising sorbent for extraction and trace analysis of lamotrigine in complex matrixes.
Preparation and Characterization of Novel Organic–Inorganic Hydroxyapatite (PAM-HA) Composites and Its Adsorption Properties
Authors: Bi Yong-guang , Guo Juan , Tang Li , Liu Xue-mei , Chen Jin-ping , Zhou Shao-qi
Published: February 2023

Hydroxyapatite/PAM was synthesized from Ca(NO3)2 · 4H2O and H3PO4 by an ultrasonic-assisted chemical precipitation method, and was used to remove Cu2+. The structure, morphology and size of the product were characterized
by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and so on. The effects of pH, reaction time, temperature, initial concentration of Cu2+, and adsorbent dosage on the adsorption reaction were also investigated, the results
showed that the maximum adsorption capacity was 105.05 mg/g with 2.0 g/L adsorbent under stirring at 35 °C for 60 min with an initial concentration of Cu2+ of 300 mg/L. In addition, the removal rate reached 90.39%. Desorption experiments also indicated that PAM-HA had strong
adsorption capacity. Quasi-first-order and quasi-second-order kinetics models were established to explore the adsorption mechanism, founding that adsorption mechanism was ion exchange which conformed to pseudo-second-order kinetics. Therefore, the PAM-HA can be used as a high-efficiency adsorbent
for Cu2+.
Whole Blood Resuscitation is Safe in Pediatric Trauma Patients: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Perea Lindsey L. , Moore Kate , Docherty Courtney , Nguyen Uyen , Seamon Mark J. , Byrne James P. , Jenkins Donald H. , Braverman Maxwell A. , Porter John M. , Armento Isabella G. , Mentzer Caleb , Leonard Guy C. , Luis Alejandro J. , Noorbakhsh Matthew R. , Babowice James E. , Kaafarani Haytham M. A. , Mokhtari Ava , Martin Matthew J. , Badiee Jayraan , Mains Charles , Madayag Robert M. , Moore Sarah A. , Madden Kathleen , Hazelton Joshua P.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Whole blood (WB) resuscitation has been associated with a mortality benefit in trauma patients. Several small series report the safe use of WB in the pediatric trauma population. We performed a subgroup analysis of the pediatric patients from a large prospective multicenter trial comparing patients receiving WB or blood component therapy (BCT) during trauma resuscitation. We hypothesized that WB resuscitation would be safe compared to BCT resuscitation in pediatric trauma patients.

Methods

This study included pediatric trauma patients (0-17 y), from ten level-I trauma centers, who received any blood transfusion during initial resuscitation. Patients were included in the WB group if they received at least one unit of WB during their resuscitation, and the BCT group was composed of patients receiving traditional blood product resuscitation. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality with secondary outcomes being complications. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to assess for mortality and complications in those treated with WB vs BCT.

Results

Ninety patients, with both penetrating and blunt mechanisms of injury (MOI), were enrolled in the study (WB: 62 (69%), BCT: 28 (21%)). Whole blood patients were more likely to be male. There were no differences in age, MOI, shock index, or injury severity score between groups. On logistic regression, there was no difference in complications. Mortality was not different between the groups ( P = .983).

Conclusion

Our data suggest WB resuscitation is safe when compared to BCT resuscitation in the care of critically injured pediatric trauma patients.
A semi-automatic methodology for tire’s wear evaluation
Authors: Castriota Alessandro , De Giorgi Marta , Manco Fabio , Morabito Anna , Nobile Riccardo
Published: February 2023

In this work, the authors aim at developing a reliable and fast methodology to evaluate the wear evolution in tire starting from a complete optical 3D scanning. Starting from a data cloud, a semi-automatic methodology was implemented in MATLAB to extract mean tread radial profiles in correspondence of the desired angular position of the tire. These profiles could be numerically evaluated to establish the presence of irregular wear and the characteristic parameter of the groove depth. The reliability and the robustness of this methodology was firstly tested by applying it to several synthetic case studies modeled in CATIA V5®, where ovalization and presence of defects were also simulated. The groove depth was determined with an error lower than 1% for the ideal model, while the introduction of ovalization and defects leaded to an error of 2.6% in the worst condition. In a second time, the methodology has been successfully applied to experimental measurements carried out in two different wear life of the tire, allowing the tracking of the wear phenomena through the evaluation of the progressive lowering of tread radial profiles.
Pleomorphic Adenoma of the External Auditory Canal From Ceruminous Gland Adenoma: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Nishimura Koji , Nagahara Kana , Hakuba Nobuhiro
Published: February 2023

We describe a right external auditory canal (EAC) recurrent ceruminous pleomorphic adenoma (CPA) accompanied by itching and review the clinical features and histopathology of this disease. A female in her 70s presented with a right EAC mass accompanied by itching. We initially diagnosed the mass as a ceruminous gland adenoma (CGA) following excisional biopsy. Two years and nine months later, the tumor recurred at the same site. A preoperative computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrated no bone destruction, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a 1 × 1 cm mass with a clearly defined margin in the right EAC. We completely excised the recurrent tumor using a transmeatal approach under general anesthesia. Histopathology demonstrated haphazard proliferation of tubule-glandular structures lined by two layers of the epithelium in the hypocellular stroma composed of a mucoid matrix. The recurring tumor was diagnosed as a CPA. Here, an EAC tumor—originally diagnosed as a CGA following excisional biopsy—recurred and was subsequently diagnosed as a CPA. CPA can be considered an unusual variant of CGA.
“Bringing Our Small, Imperfect Stones to the Pile”: The Everyday Work of Building a More Just World
Authors: Battle Brittany Pearl , Nopper Tamara K , Randolph Antonia
Published: February 2023

In this conversation between Brittany Pearl Battle and Tamara K. Nopper (facilitated by Antonia Randolph), two sociologists who have been involved in a variety of social justice struggles (e.g. prison abolition, worker’s rights, Asian American rights), describe the everyday practices that make up struggles for social justice. They identify a spectrum of practices that individuals can do to bring about a more just world, while arguing that all practices towards justice do not constitute organizing or activism. Moreover, they describe the salience of their status as workers and women of color as structuring the ways they have pursued social change at different points in their lives. In so doing, they identify academia as a workplace rather than being an academic as a status as the salient force that shapes how they work to build a more just world. Ultimately, the article questions the usefulness of the designation scholar-activist, opting to recognize the unique role of activists in social change while affirming that we all bring what we can to struggles for justice.
Estimation of Vehicular Collision Force on Bridge Piers in the Presence of Sub-Standard Intervening Concrete Barriers
Authors: Salahat Fahed H. , Jones Christopher A. , Rasheed Hayder A.
Published: February 2023

Critical infrastructures such as bridges should be resilient to extreme loading events. Among the potential hazardous events, vehicle collisions are becoming increasingly common. Modern American Association for State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) bridge design specifications consider a limit state to account for vehicular Collision Force (VCF) and require addressing it when bridge piers are within the clear zone defined by AASHTO’s Roadside Design Guide. AASHTO specifies two methods to address this limit state: either by providing an intervening structure that is capable of absorbing the VCF and/or redirecting the colliding vehicle, or designing the piers to resist a lateral load equivalent to 2,670 kN (600 kips). Many old bridges that were designed before recognizing the VCF as a limit state fail to meet the modern specifications because either the piers were designed to resist a lower lateral load than the specified limit or the installed intervening concrete barrier is not a standard one that qualifies to solely protect the piers against VCF. This paper introduces a new approach to address the requirements of the modern standards. The approach is based on blended contribution between the available sub-standard barrier and the under-designed bridge pier. The proposed approach is based on a matrix of dynamic simulations using LS-DYNA and considering different crash scenarios. The results showed that in the presence of the sub-standard barrier, the estimated VCF can be at least reduced by about 25%, leaving 75% to be resisted by the existing pier.
Symptom Management and Support in Dying Patients with Cancer and Coronavirus Disease-19—A Register-Based Study
Authors: Hedman Christel , Strang Peter , Lundström Staffan , Martinsson Lisa
Published: February 2023

Objective

Little is known to what extent access to specialist palliative care (SPC) for cancer patients dying with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) affects the occurrence of breakthrough symptoms, symptom relief, and overall care, compared to hospital deaths. Our aim was to include patients with both COVID-19 and cancer and compare those dying in hospitals with those dying in SPC with reference to the quality of end-of-life care.

Methods

Patients with both cancer and COVID-19 who died in hospitals ( n = 430) and within SPC ( n = 384) were identified from the Swedish Register of Palliative Care. The hospital and SPC groups were compared regarding the quality of end-of-life care, including the occurrence of 6 breakthrough symptoms during the last week in life, symptom relief, end-of-life care decisions, information, support, and human presence at death.

Results

Breakthrough of breathlessness was more common in the hospital patients compared to the SPC patients (61% and 39%, respectively; p < .001), while pain was less common (65% and 78%, respectively; p < .001). Breakthrough of nausea, anxiety, respiratory secretions, or confusion did not differ. All 6 symptoms, except for confusion, were more often completely relieved in SPC ( p = .014 to p < .001 in different comparisons). In SPC, a documented decision about the goal being end-of-life care and information about this were more common than in hospitals ( p < .001). Also, to have family members present at the time of death and for family members to be offered a follow-up talk afterward was more common in SPC ( p < .001).

Conclusion

More systematic palliative care routines may be an important factor for better symptom control and higher quality of end-of-life care in hospitals.
Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse Draw and Describe Their Experiences of Dissociation
Authors: Lev-Wiesel Rachel , Goldner Limor , Malishkevich Haas Roni , Hait Ariel , Frid Gangersky Neta , Lahav Lee , Weinger Susan , Binson Bussakorn
Published: February 2023

The paper examined how dissociation is experienced and manifested in the drawings and narratives of female survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder. Fifteen Israeli women filled out a self-report questionnaire consisting of demographics, traumatic events, and dissociation severity. Then, they were asked to draw a dissociation experience and provide a narrative. The results indicated that experiencing CSA was highly correlated with indicators such as the level of fragmentation, the figurative style, as well as with the narrative. Two main themes emerged: a constant movement between internal and external worlds, and distorted perceptions of time and space.
Exhausting the Home Interior: A Perecquian Methodology for the Study of Temporary Homemaking
Authors: Eghbali Arshia
Published: February 2023

Bringing into dialogue the common themes and approaches in the research on student homemaking, a discussion of the relevance of Georges Perec’s works to spatial research, and an experimental empirical study carried out on student homes in Copenhagen, Denmark, this article proposes a Perecquian methodology for the study of the multiscalar phenomenon of temporary homemaking. This methodology revolves around three main empirical reference points: (1) a focus on the infra-ordinary and the everyday, (2) a keen eye for materialities, and (3) the interplays between the domestic and the urban scales. By defining and adopting a detailed set of Perecquian constraints as to how the fieldwork is carried out, recorded, and analyzed, this article broadens the horizon for more multidisciplinary perspectives on creative research and experimental fieldwork within home studies.
Ranking of candidates on slates: Evidence from 20,000 electoral slates
Authors: Svitáková Klára , Šoltés Michal
Published: February 2023

Using over 20,000 electoral slates from municipal elections in the Czech Republic, we document that in proportional representation electoral systems political parties rank candidates on the slates systematically according to their valence, measured by educational attainment, and intra-party value, measured by political donations and membership. The observed patterns are consistent with market mechanisms where the party leaders benefit from the valence and intra-party value of candidates and offer slate positions (i.e. the probability of winning a mandate) in exchange. We show that candidates with high valence and those who possess more intra-party value are placed in better-ranked positions, despite the fact that candidates with more intra-party value, conditional on observables, tend to receive relatively fewer votes than candidates with low intra-party value. We further show that as a party expects to hold more council seats, the share of their candidates with higher intra-party value increases.
Rapid triage and transition to telehealth for heart transplant patients in the COVID-19 pandemic setting
Authors: Bart Nicole K , Emmanuel Sam , Friits-Lamora Rodrigo , Larkins Emily , Kotlyar Eugene , Muthiah Kavitha , Jabbour Andrew , Hayward Christopher , Jansz Paul C , Keogh Anne M , Thomas Emma E , Macdonald Peter S
Published: February 2023

Background

In the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic, a rapid uptake of telehealth services was instituted with the aim of reducing the spread of disease to vulnerable patient populations including heart transplant recipients.

Methods

Single-center, cohort study of all heart transplant patients seen by our institution's transplant program during the first 6 weeks of transition from in-person consultation to telehealth (23 March – 5 June 2020).

Results

Face-to-face consultation allocation strongly favored patients in the early post-operative period (34 vs. 242 weeks post-transplant; p < 0.001). Telehealth consultation dramatically reduced patient travel and wait times (80 min per visit saved in telehealth patients). No apparent excess re-hospitalization or mortality was seen in telehealth patients.

Conclusions

With appropriate triage, telehealth was feasible in heart transplant recipients, with videoconferencing being the preferred modality. Patients seen face-to-face were those triaged to be higher acuity based on time since transplant and overall clinical status. These patients have the expected higher rates of hospital re-admission, and therefore should continue to be seen in person.
Remote cognitive behavioral therapy for older adults with anxiety symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ando Mariko , Kao Ying-Chia , Lee Yu-Chien , Tai Sung-An , Mendez Samuel R , Sasaki Kosuke , Tang Wenze , Papatheodorou Stefania
Published: February 2023

Introduction

In-person cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can reduce self-reported anxiety in older adults. However, studies are limited for remote CBT. We assessed the effectiveness of remote CBT in mitigating self-reported anxiety in older adults.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis based on a literature search of PubMed, Embase, PsycInfo, and Cochrane databases up to March 31, 2021, for randomized controlled clinical trials comparing the effectiveness of remote CBT versus non-CBT controls on mitigating self-reported anxiety in older adults. We calculated within-group pre-to-post-treatment standardized mean difference using Cohen's d, obtained the difference between a remote CBT group and a non-CBT control group as our effect size for cross-study comparison, and conducted a random-effects meta-analysis. Changes in scores on self-reported anxiety symptoms (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 item Scale, Penn State Worry Questionnaire, or Penn State Worry Questionnaire – Abbreviated), and self-reported depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 item Scale or Beck Depression Inventory) were primary and secondary outcomes, respectively.

Results

Six eligible studies, containing 633 participants with a pooled mean age of 66.6 years, were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. There was a significant mitigating effect of intervention on self-reported anxiety, favoring remote CBT over non-CBT controls (between-group effect size: −0.63; 95% CI: −0.99 to −0.28). We also found a significant mitigating effect of intervention on self-reported depressive symptoms (between-group effect size: −0.74; 95% CI: −1.24 to −0.25).

Discussion

Remote CBT is more effective in reducing self-reported anxiety and depressive symptoms than non-CBT control in older adults.
Design and Performance Evaluation of a Novel Automatic Stapling Device for Knotless Barbed Suture in Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Zhou Qing , Li Zheng , Zhu Mingyue , Ding Bo , Xu Jingyun , Shen Yang
Published: February 2023

Need

This study developed a novel automatic stapling device for improving the speed and stability of suturing in laparoscopic surgery.

Technical Solution

The stapling device included 3 components: driver module, actuator module, and transmission module.

Proof of concept

A negative water leakage test of the in vitro intestinal defect model preliminarily demonstrated the safety of the new automatic stapling device. The suturing time for skin and peritoneal defects through the automatic stapling device was significantly shorter than that through the ordinary needle-holder suture ( P < .05). These 2 suture methods had good tissue alignment. The automatic suture showed less inflammatory cell infiltration and lower inflammatory response scores at the tissue incision on days 3 and 7 after surgery compared with the ordinary needle-holder suture, with statistically significant differences ( P < .05).

Next steps

In the future, the device needs to be further optimized and the experimental needs to be supplemented to provide some evidence for clinical use.

Conclusion

This novel automatic stapling device for knotless barbed suture designed in this study has advantages of shorter suturing time and milder inflammatory responses than the ordinary needle-holder suture, safe and feasible in laparoscopic surgery.
The Feasibility and Efficacy of a Novel Nano Filter in Reducing the Hazards of Surgical Smoke Exposure During Gynecological Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Feng Xiaoxiao , Ding Bo , Shen Yang
Published: February 2023

Need

This study developed a nano-filter to reduce the concentration of hazardous substances in surgical smoke.

Methodology and device description

The nano-filter consists of nanomaterials and hydrophilic materials. Smoke was collected before and after using the new nano-filter during the surgery.

Preliminary results

The concentration of PM2.5 and PAHs produced by the monopolar device was the highest ( P < .05). The concentration of PM2.5 and PAHs after using a nano-filter was less than the non-filter group ( P < .05).

Current status

Surgical smoke generated by monopolar and bipolar devices pose a potential cancer risk to health staff in the operational room. The concentration of PM and PAHs were reduced and the cancer risk was not obvious by using the nano-filter.
Exploring the well-being of community pharmacy professionals, turnover intention and patient safety: Time to include operational responsibility
Authors: Etezad Seyedehsan , Fleming Mark , Weigand Heidi A. , Hartt Christopher M. , Dutton Daniel J. , Barker James R. , Brunt Keith R.
Published: February 2023

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic added significant occupational pressures on community pharmacists. The objective of this research project was to investigate the level of distress and burnout among community pharmacy professionals and its association with their retention within their occupation as well as patient safety outcomes.

Method:

We conducted a cross-sectional study on 722 community pharmacy professionals from all Canadian provinces using an online survey, including scientifically validated measures. The data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis.

Results:

In Canada, 85% of community pharmacy professionals reported their mental health had suffered since the COVID-19 pandemic. Younger pharmacy professionals and those paid hourly reported a worsening level of mental health and an increasing level of turnover intention. Pharmacists with more dynamic/disrupted work schedules and those working for a large pharmacy chain (more than 25 pharmacies in Canada) reported lower levels of mental health quality. Pharmacy professionals working in pharmacies that are open more than 70 hours a week reported a lower level of patient safety culture. Pharmacists’ mental health was the significant predictor of their turnover intention, implying a heightened risk to professional effectiveness and retention. Compassion satisfaction was positively associated with patient safety culture and safety behaviour, while compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress were significantly associated with pharmacists’ level of risk-taking behaviours.

Conclusion:

This study emphasized the importance of prioritizing the mental health and well-being of community pharmacy professionals and demonstrated individual and systemic factors predicting the well-being and turnover intention of community pharmacists, as well as patient safety culture within their pharmacy. This research makes a case to consider actions to shift the monitoring focus from community pharmacists (also known as “individual responsibility”) to community pharmacies (also known as “operational responsibility”) for managing patient safety. Additionally, community pharmacists should be provided with the professional autonomy to affect their working conditions and alleviate the stress that has the potential to negatively affect the delivery of care.
Update on Measuring Ketones
Authors: Huang Jingtong , Yeung Andrea M. , Bergenstal Richard M. , Castorino Kristin , Cengiz Eda , Dhatariya Ketan , Niu Isabella , Sherr Jennifer L. , Umpierrez Guillermo E. , Klonoff David C.
Published: February 2023

Ketone bodies are an energy substrate produced by the liver and used during states of low carbohydrate availability, such as fasting or prolonged exercise. High ketone concentrations can be present with insulin insufficiency and are a key finding in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). During states of insulin deficiency, lipolysis increases and a flood of circulating free fatty acids is converted in the liver into ketone bodies—mainly beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate. During DKA, beta-hydroxybutyrate is the predominant ketone in blood. As DKA resolves, beta-hydroxybutyrate is oxidized to acetoacetate, which is the predominant ketone in the urine. Because of this lag, a urine ketone test might be increasing even as DKA is resolving. Point-of-care tests are available for self-testing of blood ketones and urine ketones through measurement of beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate and are cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Acetone forms through spontaneous decarboxylation of acetoacetate and can be measured in exhaled breath, but currently no device is FDA-cleared for this purpose. Recently, technology has been announced for measuring beta-hydroxybutyrate in interstitial fluid. Measurement of ketones can be helpful to assess compliance with low carbohydrate diets; assessment of acidosis associated with alcohol use, in conjunction with SGLT2 inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, both of which can increase the risk of DKA; and to identify DKA due to insulin deficiency. This article reviews the challenges and shortcomings of ketone testing in diabetes treatment and summarizes emerging trends in the measurement of ketones in the blood, urine, breath, and interstitial fluid.
Glycemia Risk Index Assessment in a Pediatric and Adult Patient Cohort With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Díaz-Soto Gonzalo , Pérez-López Paloma , Férnandez-Velasco Pablo , Nieto de la Marca María de la O , Delgado Esther , del Amo Sofia , de Luis Daniel , Bahillo-Curieses Pilar
Published: February 2023

Background:

To evaluate the glycemia risk index (GRI) as a new glucometry in pediatric and adult populations with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in clinical practice.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study of 202 patients with T1D receiving intensive treatment with insulin (25.2% continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion [CSII]) and intermittent scanning (flash) glucose monitoring (isCGM). Clinical and glucometric isCGM data were collected, as well as the component of hypoglycemia (CHypo) and component of hyperglycemia (CHyper) of the GRI.

Results:

A total of 202 patients (53% males and 67.8% adults) with a mean age of 28.6 ± 15.7 years and 12.5 ± 10.9 years of T1D evolution were evaluated. Adult patients (>19 years) presented higher glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (7.4 ± 1.1 vs 6.7 ± 0.6%; P < .01) and lower time in range (TIR) (55.4 ± 17.5 vs 66.5 ± 13.1%; P < .01) values than the pediatric population, with lower coefficient of variation (CV) (38.6 ± 7.2 vs 42.4 ± 8.9%; P < .05). The GRI was significantly lower in pediatric patients (48.0 ± 22.2 vs 56.8 ± 23.4; P < .05) associated with higher CHypo (7.1 ± 5.1 vs 5.0 ± 4.5; P < .01) and lower CHyper (16.8 ± 9.8 vs 26.5 ± 15.1; P < .01) than in adults. When analyzing treatment with CSII compared with multiple doses of insulin (MDI), a nonsignificant trend to a lower GRI was observed in CSII (51.0 ± 15.3 vs 55.0 ± 25.4; P= .162), with higher levels of CHypo (6.5 ± 4.1 vs 5.4 ± 5.0; P < .01) and lower CHyper (19.6 ± 10.6 vs 24.6 ± 15.2; P < .05) compared with MDI.

Conclusions:

In pediatric patients and in those with CSII treatment, despite a better control by classical and GRI parameters, higher overall CHypo was observed than in adults and MDI, respectively. The present study supports the usefulness of the GRI as a new glucometric parameter to evaluate the global risk of hypoglycemia-hyperglycemia in both pediatric and adult patients with T1D.