bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Febuxostat Alleviates Allergic Rhinitis by Inhibiting Inflammation and Monocyte Adhesion in Human Nasal Epithelial Cells via Regulating KLF6
Authors: Yao Yuting , Wei Ran , Jiang Hui
Published: September 2022

Introduction. Febuxostat is a novel inhibitor of xanthine oxidase that suppresses cell adhesion molecules-mediated (CAMs) inflammation by activating KLF6. In this study, we explored the therapeutic function and potential mechanisms of febuxostat against allergic rhinitis (AR). Methods. We investigated the role of febuxostat through in vitro cell and in vivo animal experiments. Human nasal epithelial cells (hNECs) were cultured with histamine as an in vitro model. To establish the AR animal model, rats were exposed to ovalbumin. Rats were randomly grouped into control, model, 7.5 mg/kg febuxostat, and 15 mg/kg febuxostat groups. Results. In the in vitro study, we found significantly increased release of lactate dehydrogenase, elevated production of inflammatory factors and chemokines, and upregulated CAMs in histamine-treated hNECs. However, these results were significantly reversed for the 10 and 20 μM febuxostat treatments. The enhanced adhesion between hNECs and monocytes induced by histamine was dramatically repressed by febuxostat. In the vivo experiments, we observed that febuxostat ameliorated the increased sneezing times, the number of nose scratching episodes, and elevated HE pathological scores as well as alleviated the inflammation in nasal mucous tissues of AR mice. We found that KLF6, which was downregulated in histamine-treated hNECs, was significantly upregulated by febuxostat. The inhibitory effects of febuxostat on the expression levels of CAMs and adhesion between histamine-treated hNECs and monocytes were significantly abolished by the knockdown of KLF6. Conclusion. Febuxostat alleviates AR by inhibiting inflammation and monocyte adhesion in human nasal epithelial cells through the regulation of KLF6.
Development of Physical Education Network Course Resources Based on Intelligent Sensor Network
Authors: Li Moutao , Song Ditao , Hu Xiaoyong
Published: September 2022

Judging from the current online teaching practice of higher physical education basic theory courses, there are many problems such as lagging theory, unclear models, confusing mechanisms, outdated methods, and lack of resources, resulting in the low interest of students. Basic theory courses are studied. The phenomenon of skipping class and being late is common, which seriously affects the improvement of the comprehensive quality of physical education students. Therefore, it has become an urgent problem for the majority of higher sports workers to develop learning resources for basic physical education courses and realize the innovation and application of the teaching mode of higher sports online courses. Compared with the traditional teaching method, the students’ physical education teaching performance is improved by about 30%, and their personality is fully developed. Linking teacher performance to changes in student performance parameters can effectively improve teacher motivation. This shows that under the background of intelligent sensor network, the physical education network course can effectively improve the teaching efficiency.
A Phase II Study Investigating Cabozantinib in Patients with Refractory Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (AGICC 17CRC01)
Authors: Scott Aaron J. , Basu Mallick Atrayee , Dotan Efrat , Cohen Steven J. , Gold Philip J. , Hochster Howard S. , Subramaniam Somasundaram , Barzi Afsaneh , Watts George S. , Blatchford Patrick J. , Messersmith Wells A.
Published: September 2022

Purpose:

Multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) have shown clinical activity in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Cabozantinib, a multi-TKI, exhibited potent antitumor activity superior to regorafenib in preclinical colorectal cancer patient-derived tumor xenograft models. This phase II study aimed to investigate cabozantinib, a multi-TKI, in patients with refractory, metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

Experimental Design:

A nonrandomized, two-stage, phase II clinical trial evaluating 12-week progression-free survival (PFS) was conducted in eight cancer centers across the United States between May 2018 and July 2020.

Results:

A total of 44 patients were enrolled between May 2018 and May 2019, 40 of which were response evaluable. Of the total 769 reported adverse events (AE), 93 (12%) were ≥ grade 3. Five grade 5 AEs were reported of which four were unrelated to study drug and one was reported as possibly related due to bowel perforation. Eighteen patients (45%) achieved 12-week PFS with stable disease or better (confidence interval, 0.29–0.62; P < 0.001). One patient (3%) had a partial response, and 27 other patients achieved stable disease as best response per RECISTv1.1. Median PFS was 3.0 months, and median overall survival was 8.3 months. Of the 18 patients who achieved 12-week PFS, 12 had left-sided primary tumors, 11 were RAS wild type, 11 were PIK3CA wild type, and 6 had previous regorafenib therapy. The 12-week PFS rate was higher in RAS wild-type tumors compared with RAS mutant tumors (0.61 vs. 0.32; P = 0.11).

Conclusions:

This phase II study demonstrated clinical activity of cabozantinib in heavily pretreated, patients with refractory mCRC, and supports further investigation.

Significance:

Targeting angiogenesis through VEGF axis blockade provides incremental survival benefit in patients with mCRC. The hepatocyte growth factor/MET signal transduction pathway has been observed as a mechanism for acquired resistance. Dual inhibition of VEGF plus MET is an attractive therapeutic strategy. This phase II trial demonstrated clinical activity with cabozantinib, a multi-TKI targeting VEGFR2 and MET, in patients with refractory, mCRC.
O desencanto republicano e a reinterpretação da Independência
Authors: Nascimento José Leonardo do
Published: September 2022

A geração de republicanos brasileiros foi culturalmente formada pelas filosofias da história dos diversos cientificismos europeus do século XIX. Entendia que a forma de governo republicana correspondia, mais do que a monárquica, aos estágios evolutivos superiores. Julgava que as nações passavam pelas mesmas fases da evolução histórica e que, portanto, a história das nações europeias prefigurava as etapas da evolução brasileira. Conhecer o Brasil pressupunha, pois, compará-lo com a história e com os movimentos sociais realizados por outras nações. Alguns republicanos procuraram guiar-se pelo exemplo da Revolução Francesa e acreditaram no caráter verdadeiramente revolucionário do regime republicano no Brasil. Como a institucionalização do regime negou os seus projetos iniciais, “desiludidos”, formularam numerosas críticas às formas políticas instituídas pela proclamação da República e pela Independência do Brasil.
Questão nacional e Independência do Brasil: um problema de 200 anos
Authors: Pimenta João Paulo
Published: September 2022

Este artigo discute as origens da chamada “questão nacional” no Brasil em meio ao processo de Independência e de algumas das características históricas mais marcantes de tal processo. A questão nacional é aqui definida e abordada a partir de quatro elementos centrais, a saber: um Estado, uma nação, uma identidade nacional e um tipo de nacionalismo. Finalmente, procura-se indicar a atualidade de tais elementos no cenário brasileiro.
Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation in Adult Congenital Heart Disease: An International Multicenter Registry Study
Authors: Griffiths Jack R. , Nussinovitch Udi , Liang Jackson J. , Sims Richard , Yoneda Zachary T. , Bernstein Hannah M. , Viswanathan Mohan N. , Khairy Paul , Srivatsa Uma N. , Frankel David S. , Marchlinski Francis E. , Sandhu Amneet , Shoemaker M. Benjamin , Mohanty Sanghamitra , Burkhardt John D. , Natale Andrea , Lakireddy Dhanunjaya , De Groot Natasja M.S. , Gerstenfeld Edward P. , Moore Jeremy P. , Ávila Pablo , Ernst Sabine , Nguyen Duy T.
Published: September 2022

Background:

Data on atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation and outcomes are limited in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). We aimed to investigate the characteristics of patients with CHD presenting for AF ablation and their outcomes.

Methods:

A multicenter, retrospective analysis was performed of patients with CHD undergoing AF ablation between 2004 and 2020 at 13 participating centers. The severity of CHD was classified using 2014 Pediatric and Congenital Electrophysiology Society/Heart Rhythm Society guidelines. Clinical data were collected. One-year complete procedural success was defined as freedom from atrial tachycardia or AF in the absence of antiarrhythmic drugs or including previously failed antiarrhythmic drugs (partial success).

Results:

Of 240 patients, 127 (53.4%) had persistent AF, 62.5% were male, and mean age was 55.2±13.3 years. CHD complexity categories included 147 (61.3%) simple, 68 (28.3%) intermediate, and 25 (10.4%) severe. The most common CHD type was atrial septal defect (n=78). More complex CHD conditions included transposition of the great arteries (n=14), anomalous pulmonary veins (n=13), tetralogy of Fallot (n=8), cor triatriatum (n=7), single ventricle physiology (n=2), among others. The majority (71.3%) of patients had trialed at least one antiarrhythmic drug. Forty-six patients (22.1%) had reduced systemic ventricular ejection fraction <50%, and mean left atrial diameter was 44.1±8.2 mm. Pulmonary vein isolation was performed in 227 patients (94.6%); additional ablation included left atrial linear ablations (40%), complex fractionated atrial electrogram (19.2%), and cavotricuspid isthmus ablation (40.8%). One-year complete and partial success rates were 45.0% and 20.5%, respectively, with no significant difference in the rate of complete success between complexity groups. Overall, 38 patients (15.8%) required more than one ablation procedure. There were 3 (1.3%) major and 13 (5.4%) minor procedural complications.

Conclusions:

AF ablation in CHD was safe and resulted in AF control in a majority of patients, regardless of complexity. Future work should address the most appropriate ablation targets in this challenging population.
Stereotactic Radioablation for Ventricular Tachycardia in the Setting of Electrical Storm
Authors: Ninni Sandro , Gallot-Lavallée Thomas , Klein Cédric , Longère Benjamin , Brigadeau François , Potelle Charlotte , Crop Frederik , Rault Erwann , Decoene Camille , Lacornerie Thomas , Lals Séverine , Kouakam Claude , Pontana François , Lacroix Dominique , Klug Didier , Mirabel Xavier
Published: September 2022

Background:

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has been reported as a safe and efficient therapy for treating refractory ventricular tachycardia (VT) despite optimal medical treatment and catheter ablation. However, data on the use of SBRT in patients with electrical storm (ES) is lacking. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical outcomes associated with SBRT in the context of ES.

Methods:

This retrospective study included patients who underwent SBRT in the context of ES from March 2020 to March 2021 in one tertiary center (CHU Lille). The target volume was delineated according to a predefined workflow. The efficacy was assessed with the following end points: sustained VT recurrence, VT reduced with antitachycardia pacing, and implantable cardioverter defibrillator shock.

Results:

Seventeen patients underwent SBRT to treat refractory VT in the context of ES (mean 67±12.8 age, 59% presenting ischemic heart disease, mean left ventricular ejection fraction: 33.7± 9.7%). Five patients presented with ES related to incessant VT. Among these 5 patients, the time to effectiveness ranged from 1 to 7 weeks after SBRT. In the 12 remaining patients, VT recurrences occurred in 7 patients during the first 6 weeks following SBRT. After a median 12.5 (10.5–17.8) months follow-up, a significant reduction of the VT burden was observed beyond 6 weeks (−91% [95% CI, 78–103]),
P
<0.0001). The incidence of implantable cardioverter defibrillator shock and antitachycardia pacing was 36% at 1 year.

Conclusions:

SBRT is associated with a significant reduction of the VT burden in the event of an ES; however, prospective randomized control trials are needed. In patients without incessant VT, recurrences are observed in half of patients during the first 6 weeks. VT tolerance and implantable cardioverter defibrillator programming adjustments should be integrated as part of an action plan defined before SBRT for each patient.
ANGPTL3 and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome and Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Lv Qianwen , Jiao Xiaolu , Yu Huahui , Sun Qiuju , Li Fan , Wang Yu , Sun Haili , Du Zhiyong , Li Linyi , Hu Chaowei , Zhang Ming , Nie Shaoping , Qin Yanwen
Published: September 2022

Background

The aim of this prospective study was to determine the impact of elevated ANGPTL3 (angiopoietin‐like protein 3) on cardiovascular events (CVEs) following acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in patients with or without obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Methods and Results

A total of 1174 patients with ACS underwent successful percutaneous coronary intervention were included in this prospective cohort study (NCT03362385). Patients were categorized according to the apnea–hypopnea index (≥15 events/h, OSA) and further classified by ANGPTL3 levels. We analyzed the incidence of CVEs in patients with ACS according to the status of OSA and ANGPTL3. During a median of 3.1 years of follow‐up, 217 (18.48%) CVEs occurred. The patients with ACS with OSA had higher ANGPTL3 levels than those without OSA (30.4 [20.9–43.2] versus 27.80 [19.1–41.5] ng/mL;
P
<0.001). In all patients with ACS, 29≤ANGPTL3<42 mg/dL and ANGPTL3≥42 mg/dL were associated with an increased risk of CVEs with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.555 (95% CI, 1.010–2.498) and 2.489 (95% CI 1.613–3.840), respectively. When the status of OSA or not was incorporated in stratifying factors, 29≤ANGPTL3<42 mg/dL and ANGPTL3≥42 mg/dL were associated with a significantly higher risk of CVEs in patients with ACS with OSA (HR, 1.916 [95% CI, 1.019–3.601] and HR, 2.692 [95% CI, 1.379–4.503]) but not without OSA. Moreover, adding ANGPTL3 to the Cox model increased C‐statistic values by 0.035 and 0.029 in the OSA group and all patients with ACS, respectively, but was not statistically improved in patients with ACS without OSA.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our study demonstrates a predictive impact of plasma ANGPTL3 on cardiovascular risk in patients with ACS, especially in patients with ACS with OSA. It might be of clinical value in refining risk stratification and tailoring treatment of patients with ACS and OSA.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03362385.
Review Article: J. W. Mealy After the Thousand Years
Authors: Beale Greg K.
Published: September 2022

The main contention of J. W. Mealy in his book After the Thousand Years is that the nations which Satan deceives at the conclusion of the millennium have been literally resurrected. Immediately following their resurrection, they undergo a second satanic deception and rebel against Christ a second time (20:5a, 7–9). His view that the final onslaught of the evil nations in vv 7–9 is the fulfillment of the prediction of v 5a (‘the rest of dead did not come to life until the thousand years were completed’) is contrary to almost all commentators of different millennial persuasions who instead see 20:12–15 as the fulfillment of 20:5a.

Mealy's identification of vv 8–9 as the fulfillment of v 5a has one strong prima facie argument in its favor (see pp. 124–126): the phrase ‘when the thousand years were completed' of v 7 is almost identical to the phrases ‘until the thousand years were completed' of vv 3b and 5a, which respectively prophesy Satan’s release from his prison and the resurrection of all unbelievers. Therefore, it is natural to identify all three verses as discussing events which are to happen at precisely the same time. Accordingly, w 7-9 appear to develop w 3b and 5a by indicating their fulfillment. If at the end of the thousand years Satan will be loosed ( v 3b ), and if at the end of the same period the rest of the dead are to rise (v 6a), then w 7–9 must be viewed as fulfilling vv 3b and 5a. In this light it is natural to take the phrase 'they ascended' in v 9 as synonymous with ‘they came to life’ of v 5a.

Beale evaluates the exegetical underpinnings of this prima facie argument and raises a number of questions about the viability of the thesis.
Four new species of Physaraia (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Braconinae) from Thailand
Authors: CHANSRI KITTIPUM , QUICKE DONALD L. J. , BUTCHER BUNTIKA A.
Published: September 2022

Four new species of the genus Physaraia Shenefelt, 1978 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) from Thailand are described and illustrated based on female specimens collected from the Malaise traps and aerial net, increasing the total number of Physaraia species of Indo-Australian region to six species; P. nanensis Chansri, Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov., P. panhai Chansri, Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov., P. sakaeratensis Chansri, Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov., P. sinensis Quicke et al., 1997, P. sumatrana, Enderlein, 1905 and P. tigeri Chansri, Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov. A checklist to the species known of Physaraia with their distribution and dichotomous key to accommodate the new species are provided.
Adjustment of Solid Precipitation during the Filomena Extreme Snowfall Event in Spain: From Observations to “True Precipitation”
Authors: Buisán Samuel T. , Serrano-Notivoli Roberto , Kochendorfer John , Bello-Millán Francisco J.
Published: September 2022

On January 2021, the heaviest snowfall in five decades hit central Spain, especially affecting Madrid. The city’s Barajas International Airport closed, along with a number of roads, and all trains to and from Madrid were cancelled. This storm was named Filomena by the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET), and produced continuous snowfall in Spain on 7–10 January. The observed snow depth was around 50 cm in 24 h in Madrid, and even higher in other areas of Spain. However, the measured accumulation of national precipitation gauges was not consistent with the observed accumulated snow on the ground and with the modeled weather forecast. The undercatch of solid precipitation was the primary reason for this inconsistency. This undercatch was quantified using transfer functions developed from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Solid Precipitation Intercomparison Experiment (SPICE). Results show that an underestimation of 20%–30% of solid precipitation in large areas of Spain was observed, with some areas experiencing even larger differences. Without adjustments, it was impossible to accurately validate the model forecast. The adjusted precipitation was also more realistically distributed, and it was more consistent with all the damage that occurred. The same methods can be applied to other snowfall events occurring anywhere in the world, and also using different precipitation gauges and/or models. This an example of the type of extreme events that modelers, forecasters, and climatologists should be aware of to avoid misinterpreting differences between modeled precipitation, observed precipitation, and nowcasting.
Research on robust control of continuous rotary electro-hydraulic servo motor based on AdaBoost prediction
Authors: Wang Xiaojing , Shi Guangqiang , Liu Meizhen , Feng Yaming
Published: September 2022

A robust control strategy based on Adaboost prediction was proposed for the effects of dynamic uncertainty, parameter perturbation and nonlinear factors such as friction and leakage on the robustness and low-speed performance of the electro-hydraulic servo system. Based on the establishment of the Pol-Ind friction model, according to the mathematical model of the continuous rotary electro-hydraulic servo motor, the structural uncertainty model of the system under parameter perturbation and external perturbation and the generalized state equation of the system are established. The robust controller is designed according to the [Formula: see text] control theory. The system feedback mechanism is designed by using the AdaBoost based on the RBF neural network algorithm. The real-time input and output of the system are used as the training sample set for repeated training, and the multiple weak neural network predictors obtained by training are used to form a strong predictor to calculate the forecast output and error of the electro-hydraulic servo system, and the robust controller was used for real-time control. Simulation and experiment show that: compared with the wavelet neural network control, the robust controller based on AdaBoost prediction has a good tracking performance to the slope signal with an input signal of 0.001°/s, and has a high response speed to sinusoidal signal. Under the condition of satisfying the requirement of double 10 index, the maximum response frequency reaches 15 Hz. It can effectively improve the low-speed performance and anti-interference ability of the electro-hydraulic servo system, greatly improve the robustness of the system and expand the frequency band of the system.
Methods to increase the mechanical performance of composite adhesive joints: An overview with focus on joints with natural fibre composite adherends
Authors: de Queiroz Henrique F.M , Banea Mariana D.
Published: September 2022

This paper presents an overview of the recent developments in the main methods used to increase the mechanical performance of composite adhesive joints with focus on joints with natural fibre reinforced composite (NFRC) adherends. First, the main factors that affect the performance of composite adhesive joints were briefly discussed. Further, the main methods used to increase the mechanical performance of natural fibre-reinforced composite adhesive joints are presented. Since, the literature regarding these methods applied to NFRC adherends is relatively scarce, in addition, promising techniques applied to synthetic fibre-reinforced composite joints, which behave in a similar manner and whose results can be extrapolated with a great deal of confidence to NFRCs are also briefly discussed. Finally, some conclusions and an outlook on critical challenges and future perspectives are summarized. The application of sustainable green composites may further increase in many structural and non-structural applications if their joining behaviour is well-known and established.
Negotiating an Illicit Economy in the Time of COVID-19: Selling and Buying Dilemmas in the Lives of People Who Use Drugs in Scotland
Authors: Bancroft Angus , Parkes Tessa , Galip Idil , Matheson Catriona , Crawshaw Emma , Craik Vicki , Dumbrell Joshua , Schofield Joe
Published: September 2022

The impact of COVID-19 itself and societal responses to it have affected people who use drugs and the illicit drug economy. This paper is part of a project investigating the health impacts of COVID-19 related control measures on people who use drugs in Scotland. It examines their roles and decisions as economically situated actors. It does this within a moral economy perspective that places economic decisions and calculations within a context of the network of social obligations and moral decisions. The paper uses a mixed methods approach, reporting on a drug trend survey and in-depth interviews with people who use drugs. It finds they were affected by restrictions in the drug consumption context and changes in the supply context, both in terms of what was supplied and changes in the relationship between sellers and buyers. Face to face selling became more fraught. Participants in more economically precarious circumstances were faced with dilemmas about whether to move into drug selling. The double impact of loss of income and reduced access to support networks were particularly difficult for them. Despite the perception that the pandemic had increased the power of sellers in relation to their customers, many full-time sellers were reported to be keeping their prices stable in order to maintain their relationships with customers, instead extending credit or adulterating their products. The effect of spatial controls on movement during the pandemic also meant that the digital divide became more apparent. People with good access to digital markets and easy drug delivery through apps were in a better position to manage disruption to drug sales contexts. We make recommendations in relation to how policy can respond to the interests of people who use drugs in a pandemic.
Platelet-Rich Plasma, an Innovative and Noninvasive Technique for Closure of Tracheoesophageal Fistula After Laryngectomy, Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Damien Maxime , Leclercq Celine , Steffens Younès , Dequanter Didier , Rodriguez Alexandra
Published: September 2022

An innovative and noninvasive technique for closure of persistent tracheoesophageal fistula after total laryngectomy is described. In our preliminary study, two patients were included. No clinical and radiological signs of locoregional recurrence prior to treatment were diagnosed. We performed local injections of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) according to our protocol. Complete closure of the fistula was observed in both patients who were able to take normal feeding. No side effects associated with the procedure were observed. These preliminary results are encouraging to consider PRP injection before more invasive surgical techniques in the treatment of persistent tracheoesophageal fistulas after total laryngectomy.
Equity Efforts as Boundary Work: How Symbolic and Social Boundaries Shape Access and Inclusion in Graduate Education
Authors: Posselt Julie , Reyes Kimberly A. , Slay Kelly E. , Kamimura Aurora , Porter Kamaria B.
Published: September 2022

Background/Context

Education scholars have examined how state policy and informal practice can widen or reproduce racial and gender inequalities in graduate education. Just one empirical study, which focused on psychology programs, has identified organizational practice that supports recruitment and retention of graduate students of color.

Focus of Study

To identify organizational conditions and specific activities that support diversity in STEM graduate programs, the authors conducted a yearlong case study of a physics program that, for the last decade, has trained about 10% of the Black Ph.D.s in physics, nationally. They identified and described concrete efforts to enhance access and inclusion, and sought to understand how this program distinguished itself from a traditional physics department.

Participants

Study participants consisted of 16 faculty, administrators, administrative staff, and students affiliated with the Applied Physics program at the University of Michigan.

Research Design

Data for this qualitative case study was collected through eighteen interviews, two student focus groups, observations of everyday life and special events in the program, and a large amount of documentary data. Guided by the constant comparative method, the analysis assessed convergence and divergence across types of data and across faculty, administrator, staff, and student perspectives. Major findings represent four areas of consensus across participant roles.

Findings/Results

Four themes explain how Applied Physics has increased access to and inclusion in a field known for its inequality. The program institutionalized a flexible, interdisciplinary intellectual paradigm; they reconceputalized their vision of the ideal student and reformed admissions accordingly; they empowered administrative staff to serve as cultural translators across racial and faculty-student boundaries; and they worked to create a familylike climate that gave them a competitive advantage over other physics programs.

Conclusions/Recommendations

We interpret the findings from the perspective of Charles Tilly's boundary change mechanisms, and conclude that the common thread among the four themes was the program's willingness to erase, relocate, and/or deactivate boundaries that had implicitly created barriers to access and inclusion for underrepresented students. The paper recommends specific steps that graduate programs can take to analyze the symbolic boundaries operating in their own programs, and invites scholars to utilize the boundaries perspective in future research on educational inequality.
Rare sigmoid abdominal wall fistula after appendectomy: a case report
Authors: Lei Hongjun , Yan Feiyu , Wang Jiwei , Li Jianguo
Published: September 2022

An extraintestinal fistula is a rare complication after appendectomy. To our knowledge, this study is the first to report a case of sigmoid abdominal wall fistula after appendectomy in a 45-year-old male patient who underwent appendectomy due to acute appendicitis. Purulent discharge was noted at the abdominal wall incision wound for more than 1 year postoperatively. The patient's clinical manifestation, medical history, physical examination, and auxiliary examination all suggested the formation of an abdominal sinus. After exploratory laparotomy at the Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, a diagnosis of sigmoid abdominal wall fistula was confirmed, and the fistula was cured after complete fistula resection. The reporting of this rare and atypical case may provide useful reference information for diagnosing and treating future cases of enterocutaneous fistula.
Price Determinants of Collectable U.S. Commemorative Stamps: An Examination of Philatelic Demand
Authors: Grimes Paul W. , Woodward Larry R. , Clark Myles
Published: September 2022

Philately, the collecting of postage stamps, is a popular hobby throughout the world. Stamp collectors’ motivations vary from the simple pursuit of leisure and recreation to financial investment and speculation. This study explores the demand for vintage U.S. commemorative stamps by examining the determinates of retail prices across alternative categories of sellers. Using regression analysis and a cross-sectional sample of the first 250 commemorative stamps issued by U.S. postal authorities, we estimate price equations for representative national dealers, regional dealers, and for electronic auction sites. The results indicate that production quantities, age, and specific attributes of individual stamp issues are the primary determinants of retail price. However, the pricing structures across categories of sellers are significantly different in a hierarchical manner indicating that dealers may successfully segment the collectable stamp market across different types of collectors but alternative explanations for our conclusions cannot be excluded without additional research.
Investigation on the effect of ventilation on string cavitation patterns in diesel nozzles
Authors: Cao Tianyi , He Zhixia , Wang Jianquan
Published: September 2022

Aiming at the complicated vortex problem that affects the flow stability of diesel engine nozzles, this paper focuses on the effect of ventilation on the string cavitation patterns in the nozzle hole with a self-built scale-up test bench. Hole-to-hole string cavitation is not stable without bubbles, and the ventilation can improve the situation. Relatively speaking, the position of hole-to-hole string cavitation in the SAC volume changes significantly with the bubble content. In contrast, the needle-originated string cavitation is stable in the vortex channel. Only if there are many bubbles, the cavitation pattern changes to hole-to-hole string cavitation or string cavitation originating from the upper wall of the hole inlet. At this point, the corresponding atomization morphology changes, and the spray angle decreases significantly. It is verified that there is a one-to-one correspondence between the cavitating pattern and the spray angle near the hole.
Weight changes after first-line antiretroviral initiation in a cohort of HIV-positive patients in Southern Spain (CAPOTA study)
Authors: Gómez-Ayerbe Cristina , Palacios Rosario , Mayorga Marisa , Navarrete Miguel Nicolas , Ferra Sergio , Ruiz Inmaculada , Garcia Coral , Castaño Manuel , Merino Dolores , Collado Antonio , Hidalgo-Tenorio Carmen , Delgado Marcial , Rivero Antonio , Santos Jesús
Published: September 2022

Background

Obesity among persons living with HIV (PLWH) has increased and weight gain after antiretroviral therapy (ART) can lead to metabolic disorders and impact survival. Our objective was to analyze weight and metabolic changes in HIV näive patients after 48 weeks of ART.

Methods

Observational, retrospective, multicentered cohort study comprising naïve-patients who started tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine/elvitegravir/cobicistat (TAF/FTC/EVG/c) or abacavir/lamivudine/dolutegravir (ABC/3TC/DTG), with no change in treatment for 48 weeks. Clinical and metabolic parameters were collected at baseline and week-48. Statistical program used was SPSS 21.0.0.

Results

The study included 329 participants from 6 hospitals. Participants were 89% male and 10% had AIDS diagnosis. Median age was 35 (IQR 27–43) years. Median baseline CD4 count was 417 (IQR 250–569) cell/mm3 and HIV viral load 4.65 (IQR 4.21–5.18) log10 copies/ml. Baseline median weight was 70 (IQR 62–79) kg, body mass index 23.4 (IQR 21.2–26.0) kg/m2; 22.7% overweight and 6.4% obese. ART regimens: ABC/3TC/DTG (196), TAF/FTC/EVG/c (133). Baseline characteristics were similar in both ART groups. Average weight gain at week-48 was 2.9 (SD 5.5) kg ( p < 0.0001) with no differences between both groups. There was an increase in obesity (6.4%–8%; p < 0.003) and overweight (22.7%–28.9%; p < 0.0001). Weight increase was associated with AIDS: OR 3.05 (95%; CI 1.009–9.22), p = 0.048; and lower baseline weight: OR 1.032 (95% CI 1.009–1.05), p = 0.006.

Conclusions

After ART initiation patients gain weight regardless of the regimen they take. Weight gain is associated with AIDS and the use of TAF/FTC/EVG/c.
Testing Deprivation and Threat: A Preregistered Network Analysis of the Dimensions of Early Adversity
Authors: Carozza Sofia , Holmes Joni , Astle Duncan E.
Published: September 2022

Despite abundant evidence of the detrimental effects of childhood adversity, its nature and underlying mechanisms remain contested. One influential theory, the dimensional model of adversity and psychopathology, proposes deprivation and threat as distinct dimensions of early experience. In this preregistered analysis of data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), we used a network and clustering approach to assess the dimensionality of relationships between childhood adversity and adolescent cognition and emotional functioning, and we used recursive partitioning to identify timing effects. We found evidence that deprivation and threat are separate dimensions of adversity and that early experiences of deprivation cluster with later measures of cognition and emotional functioning. This cluster varies by age of exposure; it includes fewer forms of deprivation as children grow from infancy to middle childhood. Our measures did not form a specific cluster linking threat to emotional functioning.
Are Schools a Bucket of “Crabs”? A Mixed Method Study at High Schools in Turkey
Authors: Çavuş Barış , Sarpkaya Ruhi
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this research was to examine the perceptions of teachers working in public and private high schools regarding the “crabs in a bucket” phenomenon and determine the views of teachers in terms of the phenomenon. In order to achieve this aim, the research was designed with the mixed method, and an explanatory sequential design was used as the mixed method design. In accordance with the results of the research, suggestions were developed for practitioners and for researchers. The quantitative data of the study were analyzed by SPSS 22.0 and LISREL 8.80, and the qualitative data were analyzed by NVivo 11.
Cultural Drivers of Health Engagement
Authors: Alkire Linda , Myrden Susan , Köcher Sören , O’Connor Genevieve E.
Published: September 2022

Given the well-documented relationship between lifestyle, disease burden, and health care costs, there is a greater need to investigate individual factors in health-related attitudes and behaviors. This research extends the rich knowledge developed around engagement, in particular customer engagement, to a new, understudied setting—namely, public health—and establishes the concept of health engagement, defined as individuals’ cognitive, emotional, and behavioral investments in health-related interactions centered around managing and taking care of their health. In addition, the current work investigates cultural drivers of the health engagement construct. A multinational survey of 1,208 participants reveals that uncertainty avoidance, long-term orientation, and indulgence are positively related to the salience of one's health, which, in turn, motivates health engagement and, by extension, improves physical and psychological health outcomes. Finally, the authors provide actionable insights for policy makers, public health actors, and business managers who seek to develop health engagement to improve overall public health.
Katy transforms storytime: Culturally sustaining pedagogy in the community
Authors: Wang Wenjie , Thomas Rhianna , Cahill Betsy
Published: September 2022

The increasingly diverse population of young children in the U.S. requires innovative culturally and linguistically sustaining literacy practices in early childhood education. Through parent-child ethnography, we share two stories of a multilingual and multicultural mother and daughter who created and enacted new storytelling practices in the context of community storytime. We analyze the stories through the dual lenses of sociocultural theory and culturally sustaining pedagogy and find powerful opportunities for culturally sustaining pedagogy when a child and parent are invited to share stories from their heritage cultures and encouraged to take leadership in developing and enacting multilingual pedagogies in educational spaces. We offer implications for future research for a deeper understanding of culturally sustaining pedagogy through sociocultural theory in the field of early childhood education.
Conversation analysis in social work research: a scoping review
Authors: Flinkfeldt Marie , Iversen Clara , Jørgensen Sabine Ellung , Monteiro David , Wilkins David
Published: September 2022

Given the emphasis on communication in social work, the empirical study of social work interactions is an important area for research. By examining recordings of naturally occurring social interaction and analysing participants’ practices in close detail, conversation analysis (CA) provides rigorous resources for understanding the practical challenges and opportunities of professional intervention. Since the origins of CA in the 1970s, this approach has been used for investigating interactions in a wide range of institutional domains. Based on articles published in peer-reviewed journals in English, this scoping review maps the development of CA in social work research. The review gives an overview of the institutional contexts, professional groups and client groups that have been investigated using CA methods, as well as how their interactional practices have been examined. We show contributions of CA to understanding social work in terms of specific interactional practices, how practitioners accomplish challenging institutional activities in interactions and how theories and ideals about interactions relate to social work practice. The review highlights research gaps concerning clients’ resources for pursuing agendas, embodied conduct in social work, contributions to the cumulative body of CA research and implications for practice. We discuss these findings in relation to CA as a relatively new approach in social work research and the challenges which CA may need to address to become a more integrated part of social work research and practice.
Outbreaks of COVID-19 in indoor places of worship: a systematic review
Authors: Bert F , Lo Moro G , Peano A , Previti C , Siliquini R
Published: September 2022

Aims:

This review aimed to describe what has been published on COVID-19 outbreaks originating from indoor places of worship.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist by searching PubMed, Scopus and Embase from 1 January 2020 to 29 March 2021. Citation chasing was also performed. Studies with information about COVID-19 outbreaks originating in indoor places of worship of any religion were included.

Results:

A total of 9729 records were identified and 36 were selected. The articles reported 119 descriptions of outbreaks linked to churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples, referring to approximately 52–74 unique outbreaks. The outbreaks were mostly located in three major areas: East and Southeast Asia (46%), the USA (27%), Europe (22%). All the outbreaks began in 2020. Mainly, there were no restrictive measures, or such measures were not followed at the time of the outbreak. Choir practices presented the highest attack rate (up to 0.867).

Conclusions:

The lack of preventive measures and the role of singing practices were highlighted. Reports were often lacking contact tracing and sometimes did not report the date of outbreak extinction. Moreover, reports came from few geographical areas. Thus, the impact of transmission in places of worship may be largely underestimated.
Fingolimod versus interferon beta 1-a: Benefit–harm assessment approach based on TRANSFORMS individual patient data
Authors: Spanu Alessandra , Aschmann Hélène E , Kesselring Jürg , Puhan Milo A
Published: September 2022

Background

Fingolimod is a disease-modifying drug approved for multiple sclerosis but its benefit–harm balance has never been assessed compared to other active treatments.

Objectives

Our aim was to compare the benefits and harms of fingolimod with interferon beta-1a using individual patient data from TRial Assessing injectable interferon versus FTY720 Oral in RRMS trial.

Methods

We modelled the health status of patients over time including Expanded Disability Status Scale measurements, relapses and any adverse events. We assessed the mean health status between arms and the proportion of patients whose health deteriorated or improved relatively to baseline, using a prespecified minimal important difference of 4.6. We performed sensitivity analyses to test our assumptions.

Results

Main and sensitivity analyses favoured fingolimod 0.5 mg over interferon beta-1a. The average health status difference was 1.01 (95% CI 0.93–1.08). Patients on fingolimod 0.5 mg were 0.47 (95% CI: 0.35–0.63, p < 0.001) times less likely to experience a relevant decline in health status compared to interferon beta-1a patients, with a number needed to treat of 7.10 [5.18, 11.23].

Conclusions

Fingolimod's net benefit over interferon beta-1a did not reach the clinical relevance over 1 year, but the decreased risk for health status deterioration may be more pronounced more long term and patients may prefer less treatment burden associated with fingolimod. [Formula: see text]
Evaluation of ASEAN–India Free Trade Regime: A General Equilibrium Approach
Authors: Srivastava Archana , Mathur Rachna , Mathur Somesh K.
Published: September 2022

The study uses ex-ante simulations of the general equilibrium model to analyze deeper integration and forward looking liberalization measures undertaken by the ASEAN and India to assess the Indo-ASEAN trade in its present dispensation and its futuristic goals. In the first scenario, complete trade liberalisation takes place including both tariff and non-tariff barriers among the ASEAN countries itself. Although the tariffs are quite low among the ASEAN countries, yet there is need to go for complete tariff and non-tariff liberalisation as it constitutes an important part of the trade barriers. The deeper integration measures across ASEAN and India include not only tariff and non-tariff liberalisation but also movement of capital, introduction to output-oriented technologies in sectors like transport and communication, light manufacturing and meat, and meat products with input oriented technological progress in land and natural resources. We use the GTAP-10 to analyse the same and the results reveal huge gains for India and ASEAN nations in the deeper integration simulation scenario. If ASEAN nations liberalize unilaterally on its own as a standalone liberalization, then there would be negative welfare returns for India while it would turn positive for India in case of deeper integration.

JEL Classification: F13, F15
Exploring healthcare provider and patient perspectives on current outpatient care of venous leg ulcers and potential interventions to improve their treatment: a mixed methods study in the ulcus cruris care project
Authors: Poß-Doering Regina , Anders Carolin , Fleischhauer Thomas , Szecsenyi Joachim , Senft Jonas.D.
Published: September 2022

Background

The project "Ulcus Cruris Care" aims to improve primary care for patients with venous leg ulcer (VLU) in General Practitioner (GP) practices using a complex intervention comprised of educational components, standardized treatment recommendations, computer-assisted documentation, and case management by non-physician medical assistants (MAs). Prior to implementing and testing the intervention components in general practices, in-depth exploration of current outpatient treatment of VLU patients and relevant implementation determinants was pursued.

Methods

A mixed-methods study explored views of GPs, MAs, and patients regarding current VLU outpatient care and the planned intervention components to identify potential implementation determinants. Data were collected through semi-structured guide-based telephone interviews (n = 29) and a survey questionnaire (n = 28). Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Analysis was inductive initially and finalized in a deductive-inductive approach based on domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework to support structuring of relevant implementation determinants. Survey data were analyzed descriptively.

Results

Current VLU outpatient care was described as frequently tailored to individual wounds and gradient. In general, workload was shared by GPs (diagnostics, counselling) and MAs (wound care). All care providers were aware of compression therapy, yet not all of them considered it essential for VLU care. Standardized operating procedures and educational components including e-learning were considered supportive. Stronger involvement of non-physician assistants was seen as opportunity to optimize VLU care. Concerns were identified regarding integration of software-supported case management into daily practice routines and regarding potential limitations in decision-making autonomy when using standard operating procedures.

Conclusions

Findings in this study emphasize a need for educational interventions addressing VLU care providers as well as patients, particularly with regards to compression therapy. The conception of the planned intervention appears to be adequate and a structured guideline-based case management might be a promising approach for optimization of VLU treatment.