bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors in the treatment landscape of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)
Authors: El Gazzar Walaa Bayoumie , Albakri Khaled Anwer , Hasan Hanan , Badr Amira M , Farag Amina A , Saleh Othman Mohammad
Published: August 2023

Objective

Chemotherapy is the mainstay for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients. Over the years, the use of chemotherapy for these patients has demonstrated many adversities, including toxicity and resistance, which suggested the need to develop novel alternative therapeutic options, such as poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi). Herein, we provide an overview on PARPi, mechanisms of action and the role of biomarkers in PARPi sensitivity trials, clinical advances in PARPi therapy for TNBC patients based on the most recent studies and findings of clinical trials, and challenges that prevent PARP inhibitors from achieving high efficacy such as resistance and overlapping toxicities with other chemotherapies.

Data sources

Searching for relevant articles was done using PubMed and Cochrane Library databases by using the keywords including TNBC; chemotherapy; PARPi; BRCA; homologous recombination repair (HRR). Studies had to be published in full-text in English in order to be considered.

Data summary

Although PARPi have been used in the treatment of local/metastatic breast malignancies that are HER2 negative and has a germline BRCA mutation, several questions are still to be answered in order to maximize the clinical benefit of PARP inhibitors in TNBC treatment, such as questions related to the optimal use in the neoadjuvant and metastatic settings as well as the best combinations with various chemotherapies.

Conclusions

PARPi are emerging treatment options for patients with gBRCA1/2 mutations. Determining patients that are most likely to benefit from PARPi and identifying the optimal treatment combinations with high efficacy and fewer side effects are currently ongoing.
DPD deficiency in an Irish oncology centre: Prevalence and clinical implications
Authors: Kieran Ruth , Mitchell Taylor , Fazari Afrah Al , Chinoy Aleena , Moloney Carolyn , McCaffrey John
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Fluorouracil (5FU) and capecitabine are metabolised by dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD). Up to 9% of people have low levels of a working DPD enzyme and are at risk of severe toxicity from 5FU/capecitabine. In April 2020, the EMEA recommended patients undergo prospective screening for DPD deficiency before starting treatment, and this was introduced in our hospital.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed records of all patients receiving 5FU/capecitabine in a tertiary Irish cancer centre from May 2020 to April 2021 ( n = 197), and those starting first-line treatment in May 2019–April 2020 ( n = 97). Our primary outcome was to estimate the prevalence of DPYD variant genes by prospective genotypic screening, with secondary outcomes including variant prevalence by prospective and reactive screening in patients receiving first-line treatment, and 5FU toxicity/tolerability in those with detected variants.

Results

In those treated 2020–2021, cancer subtypes included colorectal ( n = 120, 61%), breast ( n = 34, 17%), and biliary/pancreatic cancers ( n = 21, 11%). Median patient age was 62 (range 25–86 years); 40% ( n = 79) of patients were screened overall, with a prospective-screening deficiency prevalence of 6.8% ( n = 3 of 44). Three patients had pathogenic DPYD-variants detected by prospective screening and tolerated treatment with 50% up-front dose reduction of 5FU, two had variants of uncertain significance detected by reactive screening.

Discussion

Other Irish studies estimated prevalence at 11–12%. As the number of variants detected was small, and screening rates were incomplete, our study may have underestimated prevalence.

Conclusions

Approximately 6.8% of Irish patients may carry DPD deficiencies, prospective screening is essential to reduce the risk of life-threatening toxicity in these patients.
Partisan Politics and Excise Tax Rates in the United States
Authors: Hankins William B.
Published: August 2023

The literature on excise tax rates has provided mixed evidence concerning how partisan ideology affects tax changes. Using a regression discontinuity design and a panel of U.S. states over the period 1970–2019 I find no significant difference in cigarette, distilled spirits, or gasoline excise tax rates between Democratic governors and Republican governors elected by a similar margin. This result is found regardless of whether the governor can run for an additional term or faces a binding term limit. These results are robust to an analysis of the post-southern realignment period, when controlling for southern Democrats, or when analyzing open elections without an incumbent in the running. An implication of this result is that interstate tax competition and the mobility of the tax base dwarfs any ideological differences with respect to excise tax policy.
Broken (Again) – Making Sense of Ankle Fracture, Hospitalisation, and Early Recovery: An Autoethnography
Authors: Dowling Sally
Published: August 2023

There is little research on the experience of recovering from acute injury, with most first person accounts of illness about chronic ill health. Ankle fracture is a common, distressing injury with short- and long-term life-altering impacts. In this article, an autoethnographic approach is used to tell a story of ankle fracture, surgery, and subsequent early recovery. The story is told and examined from one person’s multiple perspectives – as a patient, healthcare worker, and healthcare educator – and thus reflects on both the delivery and organisation of healthcare, and the personal experience of receiving care. The impacts of ankle fracture and recovery are considered and related to other research on the experience. Common factors include pain, loss of independence, isolation, loneliness and depression, changed personal and social identities and engagement, and lack of understanding of the trajectory of recovery. Illness and injury narratives can provide valuable contributions to healthcare education and the delivery of care, as well as being used to support those living through similar experiences. This article argues that the combination of sociological thinking and patient experience has a valuable contribution to make to healthcare education.
Narrative media interventions influence efficacy beliefs, social norms, and choice of behavioral options: A field experiment in Burkina Faso
Authors: Bilali Rezarta
Published: August 2023

Narrative media interventions in the form of edutainment are increasingly used to change behaviors, social norms, and attitudes. The present study examines the effects of a narrative intervention using role models on efficacy beliefs, behavioral options, social norms, and attitudes. I utilize data from a cluster randomized controlled trial with two arms (treatment vs. control) conducted in 132 villages in Burkina Faso ( N = 2,904 participants). Randomly selected participants in intervention villages participated in group listening sessions of a radio drama over 3 months. Compared to a business-as-usual control, the narrative intervention increased self- and collective efficacy beliefs to bring about social change, and influenced endorsement of behavioral options to fight corruption. The intervention also reduced the perception that reporting corruption is viewed as dangerous by the community. The findings contribute to the literature on narrative media interventions and social modeling of action.
Managing neolocalism outside the locale in real ale and craft beer entrepreneurship: The case of Ben Lui Brewery
Authors: Brown David M
Published: August 2023

This case focuses on the role played by place and neolocalism in real ale and craft beer entrepreneurship, and the dilemma of how to manage neolocalism when a firm extends into markets beyond its established locale. It examines how a sense of belonging and ‘locatedness’ underpins a small, entrepreneurial brewery's vision, mission and market differentiation, contributing to the firm's brand equity amongst its core audiences. The owner-director, Duncan, is currently considering the brand implications of a possible expansion of sales activities into England and Wales. He expects that English and Welsh stakeholders will derive different meanings from the place-oriented aspects of the firm's brand when compared with his established Scottish stakeholders but is unsure how and to what effect. The case considers the extent to which perceptions of neolocalism and place-specificity can differ between local and non-local stakeholders. The concept is explored in the context of rural entrepreneurship, and in the strategic decision making of a small, independent brewery in rural Scotland.
Multi-type damage localization using the scattering coefficient-based RAPID algorithm with damage indexes separation and imaging fusion
Authors: Bao Qiao , Xie Tian , Hu Weiwei , Tao Kai , Wang Qiang
Published: August 2023

Guided waves-based structural health monitoring (SHM) methods have potential for practical applications, since they are sensitive to small damages and are able to realize large area monitoring. Among these methods, the Reconstruction Algorithm for Probabilistic Inspection (RAPID), using a Piezoelectric transducer (PZT) sensor array, is one of the most widely used imaging algorithms to perform active damage monitoring and localization. However, since the sensing paths are distributed inside the sensor array with the non-uniform density, the RAPID algorithm can only localize damage when it is occurring inside of the array. If the damage occurs outside of the array or both inside and outside of the array, that is, multi-type damage, the performance of RAPID algorithm would not be satisfactory. In this paper, a scattering coefficient-based RAPID algorithm with damage indexes separation and imaging fusion is proposed. The amplitude of damage scattered signal at the corresponding time of fight is adopted as the weight in the probability distribution function, and damage indexes are then classified into two categories in the RAPID algorithm for the inside and outside damage localization respectively. Finally, an experiment on the complex composite plate, with the center large hole and surrounding bolt holes, is carried out to verify this proposed method. Experimental results show that this method can realize multi-type damage localization with errors less than 40 mm.
Progress in recycling and reutilization of waste polyethylene terephthalate
Authors: Chen Ruixin , Deng Sai , Cui Tongyan , Duan Shiyu , Jia Qingxiu , Zhang Liqun
Published: August 2023

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a versatile material with a wide range of applications, and the demand for PET products has been steadily increasing in recent years. This has generated large quantities of non-biodegradable PET waste. To reduce environmental pollution, recycling and reuse of waste PET is an economical solution. Different PET products vary greatly in their impurity contents, processing technology, and performance, which poses certain challenges for the recovery, purification, and reuse of PET waste in a high value-added manner. Various recycling and reutilization methods are compared, potential issues with different PET products in the recycling process are analyzed, and viscosity enhancement modification techniques and applications of recycled PET are introduced. This paper provides a reference for the recycling of various waste PET products.
Speech-Language Pathologists’ Perception of Telepractice at the Start of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Jordan
Authors: Bani Hani Hanady A. , Aljazi Aya B. , Alkhamra Rana , Alomari Hala M.
Published: August 2023

This study explored how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in Jordan perceived and implemented telepractice at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, from April to June 2020. Eighty-five SLPs who provided telepractice and 57 SLPs, who did not, completed an online survey sharing their perceptions related to the delivery and barriers of telepractice. The results showed a significant increase of telepractice use in response to the pandemic. However, the SLPs identified several barriers to telepractice, including environmental distractions at the client’s end, limited computer knowledge, technological issues, internet connectivity problems, and platform availability. There was general agreement among the SLPs regarding the need for professional training and governmental guidelines to regulate the use of telepractice. The study’s findings demonstrate how SLPs in Jordan adapted to the sudden shift toward telepractice, and identify potential implementation obstacles, which could assist in establishing telepractice as a reliable model for speech-language therapy services in the future.
The Association Between Subjective Mental Impairment and Objective Cognitive Performance in Non-Demented, Very Mild and Mild Demented Individuals
Authors: Huang Ling-Chun , Yang Yuan-Han
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Explore associations between subjective mental impairment, objective cognitive performance, and subsequent decline in older individuals with different cognitive statuses in Taiwan.

Methods

Use self-reported questionnaire and cognitive abilities screening instrument to assess subjective and objective cognitive function. Categorize participants as reporters or non-reporters based on subjective reports. Conduct t-tests and regression analysis.

Results

206 participants were assessed: 99 cognitively intact (CI), 44 very mild dementia, and 63 mild dementia. In the CI group, reporters in memory, orientation, daily life, community affairs, and judgement domains performed worse than non-reporters. In very mild dementia group, reporters in memory and personality domains performed better than non-reporters. No association found between subjective reports and 1-year cognitive decline in dementia groups.

Conclusion

Association between subjective impairment and objective performance differs in CI and very mild dementia groups. Subjective reports do not predict 1-year cognitive decline in dementia patients. Longer follow-up studies needed.
Revealing a Natural Model of Pre-Osteoarthritis of the Hip Through Study of Femoroacetabular Impingement
Authors: Pascual-Garrido Cecilia , Kikuchi Kenichi , Clohisy John C. , O’Keefe Regis J. , Kamenaga Tomoyuki
Published: August 2023

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is considered the mechanical cause of hip osteoarthritis (OA). Surgical intervention involves labrum repair and osteochondroplasty to remove the impingement, alleviating symptoms. Nevertheless, some patients progress to hip OA after surgery, indicating that factors other than mechanical abnormality are contributing to hip OA progression. This review article discusses our laboratory’s studies on hip FAI and OA, undertaken to identify key molecular players in the progression of hip OA. Transcriptome analysis identified peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) as a crucial molecule in early hip OA. PPARγ, widely expressed in chondrocytes, has a protective role in preventing OA, but its true mechanism remains unknown. We observed a dysregulation of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) in the progression of hip OA, with high expression of DNMT1 and 3A and downregulation of DNMT3B. Moreover, we established that DNMT3A is the main molecule that is binding to PPARγ promoter CpG area, and hypermethylation of this area occurs during disease progression. This suggests that epigenetic changes are a main mechanism that regulates PPARγ expression. Finally, we developed a novel rabbit model of hip FAI and OA and are currently performing studies to validate our small-animal model to human FAI.
Boggs Bills: Contrast agents in the art market and in law, or, how to make money as an artist
Authors: Steinberg Monica
Published: August 2023

Much has been written on the intertwined histories of art and money, from trompe-l’œil depictions of banknotes to so-called money art to the elements of trust and authenticity undergirding these arenas. Yet, what happens when an artwork representing paper money is inserted into the financial system itself? What mechanisms of monetary production and regulation are activated and revealed? In the 1980s and 1990s, artist JSG Boggs realized Boggs Bills — representations of banknotes that pulled the financial system and the laws regulating money into art, and likewise, pulled art into the machinery of finance and its governance. Alongside the more widely discussed modes of creative engagement such as intervention, culture jamming, and semiotic disobedience, I propose the term contrast agent to discuss the operations of Boggs Bills within the systems of art and law. This conceptualisation allows for a consideration of the laboratory-like mapping of the vectors of exchange performed by Boggs Bills as they weave through various bureaucratic systems. These works of art were injected into and circulated through different arenas of exchange, animating the bureaucracy that both constructs and regulates money.
The Evolution of Developmental Theories Since Piaget: A Metaview
Authors: Rochat Philippe
Published: August 2023

History counts and cannot be overlooked. As a case in point, the origins of major theoretical tensions in the field of developmental psychology are traced back to Piaget (1896–1980), who paved the way to major discoveries regarding the origins and development of cognition. His theory framed much of the new ideas on early cognitive development that emerged in the 1970s, in the footsteps of the 1960s’ cognitive revolution. Here, I retrace major conceptual changes since Piaget and provide a metaview on empirical findings that may have triggered the call for such changes. Nine theoretical views and intuitions are identified, all in strong reaction to some or all of the four cornerstone assumptions of Piaget’s developmental account (i.e., action realism, domain generality, stages, and late representation). As a result, new and more extreme stances are now taken in the nature-versus-nurture debate. These stances rest on profoundly different, often clashing theoretical intuitions that keep shaping developmental research since Piaget.
Efficacy of Sublingual Immunotherapy in Allergic Rhinitis Patients with Asthma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ma Dijiang , Zheng Qiling , Sun Jianing , Tang Shenjun , He Wudan
Published: August 2023

Objective

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) has been widely applied to treat patients with allergic rhinitis (AR). However, meta-analyses on the efficacy of SLIT in AR patients with asthma are still limited.

Methods

Literature without language limitation published before October 28, 2022, were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library. STATA 16.0 software was used for the meta-analysis of the extracted data. The results reported were symptom scores, drug scores, adverse effects rates, and cost of treatment.

Results

Ten studies involving 1722 patients met the inclusion criteria. The total rhinitis score (TRSS) (weighted mean difference [WMD] = −1.23, 95% CI: −1.39-−1.06, P < .001) and total asthma symptom score (TASS) (WMD = −1.00, 95% CI: −1.12–0.89, P < .001) were significantly lower in the SLIT group than the placebo group. The SLIT group had higher rates of treatment-related adverse events (relative risk [RR] = 2.82, 95% CI: 1.77-4.48, P < .001) and total costs of treatment (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.45-0.97, P < .001). There was no significant difference in inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) dose ( P = .195), fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) ( P = .158), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) ( P = .237), and direct costs of treatment ( P = .630) between the SLIT and placebo groups.

Conclusion

SLIT may be a therapeutic method for improving rhinitis symptoms and asthma symptoms in AR patients with asthma. However, as there was significant heterogeneity in results, more high-quality and well-designed studies are needed in the future to elucidate the efficacy of SLIT.
The cultural politics of race in Chinese cinema: Nationalism and the changing representation of whiteness in Big Shot’s Funeral and Crazy Alien
Authors: Ma Ke
Published: August 2023

Research on whiteness in Western cinema has effectively revealed how cinematic representation contributes to formulating, perpetuating, normalizing, and contesting white superiority in Western cultural discourses. However, little research considers how Chinese cinema imagines and negotiates whiteness. Using the visual-textual analysis method, this article examines the representations of white identities in Big Shot’s Funeral (2001, dir. Feng Xiaogang) and Crazy Alien (2019, dir. Ning Hao). These are two well-received post-socialist Chinese dark comedy films depicting encounters between Chinese people and Westerners in contemporary China. Approaching racial identity as a form of social positioning, I analyze how various meanings are ascribed to white identities in the films, and how these meanings articulate Chineseness and Chinese nationalist sentiments. I show that white superiority is simultaneously reinforced and contested in the two films. While doing so, I will also highlight Western cultural theories’ lack of analytical power in explaining how white superiority in cultural discourse transforms across different geographical locations.
Enhancing Family Life Quality of Nurses Amid COVID-19 Pandemic: The Mediating Role of Organization-Based Self-Esteem in the Relationship Between Mentoring Quality and Family Satisfaction
Authors: Adil Kamran , Mahmood Asif
Published: August 2023

It is challenging to be a nurse because you have to deal with patients’ unstable states on the spot, especially during pandemics. There has been an escalation in the situation as a result of the spread of a novel Coronavirus, COVID-19, across the globe. The mental health and personal lives of nursing staff suffered as a result of overload and stress during this contagion. In this context, the current study aims to hinge on improving the family satisfaction and family life quality of frontline soldiers by mentoring quality through the mediating role of organization-based self-esteem. Against this backdrop, a sample of 450 nurse-family dyads was collected in a three-wave field survey to investigate the hypotheses concerning the subjects working in hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. Data were analyzed through structural equation modeling using AMOS 26. The study results indicate that high mentoring quality positively impacts family satisfaction and family life quality. In light of the study findings, hospital administration has practical implications for improving the quality of mentoring in order to enhance the personal and professional lives of nurses.
Allograft Use in Hand Surgery – ‘Off the Shelf’ Tendon Reconstruction: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hagiga Ahmed , Chiew Daphne Le Min , Radhi Mohamed A. , Mistry Rikki , Dheansa Baljit
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Tendon grafting is standard for treating tendon defects. Allografts are popular in cruciate ligament reconstruction but not yet in upper limb tendon reconstruction. A scoping review was conducted to map the existing practice of allograft use in hand surgery for tendon reconstruction and identify gaps in knowledge for future research. Methods: Two independent reviewers searched MEDLINE and SCOPUS databases for studies on upper limb tendon reconstruction using tendon allografts until June 2022. Eligible studies included controlled randomised clinical trials, cohort, case-control, cross-sectional, or case report and series studies conducted in English and enrolling patients who underwent tendon allograft reconstruction in the upper limb. Screening for eligibility was done by both reviewers, who reached a consensus through discussion, with no exclusion based on poor methodological quality. Data charting included study title, patients’ demographics and outcomes, complications, and follow-up period. Results: The database search found 6 eligible articles with a total of 116 patients and 148 allografts used for reconstruction. Of the studies that looked at functional outcomes, 72.9% of patients had ‘good’ or ‘fair’ results, while 25.8% were classed as ‘poor’. All of the patients assessed for subjective outcomes were at least partially/fairly satisfied with the allograft. Conclusion: This scoping review has indicated that the utilisation of tendon allografts in the upper limb can potentially be a promising approach for tendon reconstruction, especially in cases of severe trauma or salvage. However, further research is needed to comprehensively assess efficacy, long-term outcomes, complications, postoperative rehabilitation protocols, and comparative effectiveness against autograft tendon reconstruction.
A Data-driven Distance Metric for Evaluating the effects of Dynamic Range Compression in Adverse Conditions
Authors: Overby Niels , Dau Torsten , May Tobias
Published: August 2023

Dynamic range compression is a crucial component in hearing aids, aiming to restore audibility for hearing-impaired listeners. However, determining suitable compression parameters, such as the time constants for the level estimation stage, remains a topic of debate, as the perceptual benefit of different parameter configurations varies depending on the acoustic conditions. In this study, a data-driven distance metric based on physical metrics was developed to evaluate and compare the performance of various compression systems. This analysis encompassed fast-acting and slow-acting compression, as well as a “scene-aware” compression that dynamically adjusted the release time constant based on the presence of the target. A reference system called “source-independent compression” was also considered, which had access to individual speech and noise signals. Multiple physical metrics were employed to assess the effects of these different compression systems under diverse acoustic conditions, including varying levels of interfering noise and degrees of room reverberation. Factor analysis was applied to derive a concise set of interpretable features representing the impact of compression, expressed as linear combinations of carefully selected objective metrics. The reduced dimensional representation enabled the use of the Manhattan distance to measure the similarity between the compression systems. Results demonstrated that the scene-aware compressor generally exhibited a smaller distance to the reference system compared to both the fast-acting and slow-acting compressors. This finding suggests that an adaptive compression system holds potential benefits across a range of acoustic conditions.
Home Care Nurses’ Experiences of the Use and Introduction of the Subacute Functional Decline in the Elderly Instrument
Authors: Wesseltoft-Rao Nima , Pajalic Zada , Hamre Annabel , Abudayya Abdallah
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Registered nurses are crucial in home care nursing for elderly patients, as detecting geriatric conditions can be difficult due to age-related changes or communication barriers. Disability is often overlooked in elderly care, requiring different assessment tools to determine patient status and necessary nursing interventions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the subacute functional decline in the elderly (SAFE) instrument was implemented in some Oslo districts to detect early signs of sub acute functional decline in hospital and home care settings. However, the nurses’ perception of this new assessment tool and its effectiveness has not been evaluated.

Objectives

This study aims to explore home care nurses’ experiences and perceptions regarding the introduction and use of the new assessment tool, SAFE. Objectives were to conduct focus group interviews and perform qualitative analysis.

Method

The study followed Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines, had a qualitative design, and included 15 out of 60 permanently employed RNs at Oslo municipality's home care service in Frogner district. Data was collected via three focus group interviews and analyzed thematically.

Results

The study identified three themes: (1) Nurses learned to use SAFE through direct experience due to a lack of standard introduction or training. (2) SAFE supported patient-centred care by enabling communication, preventive work, and identifying patients’ needs. (3) Integrating SAFE into electronic databases and daily clinical work could improve nursing efficiency.

Conclusion

Overall, using SAFE can improve patient outcomes and care quality in home care, but clear guidelines, ongoing support, and standardized procedures are crucial for its effectiveness. Regular updates and complete management support are also necessary. The study's findings align with previous research and can guide the development and implementation of tools in home care to enhance patient outcomes and the quality of care delivered.
Perspectival Kinaesthetic Imaging
Authors: Malafouris Lambros , Carnegie Rory , Creswell Miranda , Iliopoulos Antonis , Koukouti Maria-Danae , Ross Wendy
Published: August 2023

Perspectival Kinaesthetic Imaging is being proposed as a method designed to facilitate the heightened sensitivity needed for the anthropological study of the relationship between making and thinking, during the creative engagement with form-generating materials. Technically, this objective is achieved through the juxtaposition of perspectival view points on the process of making. We follow the ways of the hand using a combination of multimodal visual captures (i.e., photography, video, observational drawing and mobile eye-tracking). Each of these multimodal visual captures affords a specific spatio-temporal perspective from which to identify and observe morphogenetic events of interest (e.g. creative gestures and modes of enactive signification). The basic idea is that the juxtaposition of different media affects how we observe and what can be observed by enabling the discovery of connections and material relations that are often obscured when seen from a single perspectival point.
Application of the bulge test combined with 3D-DIC for biaxial characterization of PLA films and defect detection
Authors: Kharrat F , Khlif M , Hilliou L , Covas JA , Haboussi M , Bradai C
Published: August 2023

The bulge test is a versatile mechanical testing technique widely applied in materials science, engineering, and biomedical research to understand the mechanical behavior of materials and structures. In this study, PLA blown films were characterized through the bulge test, and the corresponding properties were compared to those obtained from uniaxial t!esting. To achieve more accurate and precise deformation measurements, 3D digital image correlation (3D-DIC) was used, offering superior capabilities in terms of accuracy, precision, and non-destructive testing. This technique can detect defects such as cracks, voids, and delamination in materials and structures. During the bulge testing, 3D-DIC was utilized to analyze the strain field evolution within the test sample and identify regions of reduced film thickness. Notably, the results indicated zones with strain concentration aligned parallel to the film machine direction, suggesting localized thickness reduction in those areas.
The trajectory of prognostication and risk stratification for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: DeZern Amy E. , Greenberg Peter L.
Published: August 2023

Risk stratification and prognostication are crucial for the appropriate management of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) or myelodysplastic neoplasms, for whom the expected survival can vary from a few months to >10 years. For the past 5 decades, patients with MDS have been classified into higher-risk vs lower-risk disease phenotypes using sequentially developed clinical prognostic scoring systems. Factors such as morphologic dysplasia, clinical hematologic parameters, cytogenetics, and, more recently, mutational information have been captured in prognostic scoring systems that refine risk stratification and guide therapeutic management in patients with MDS. This review describes the progressive evolution and improvement of these systems which has led to the current Molecular International Prognostic Scoring System.
Burden of influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 infection among tuberculosis patients: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Umbreen Gulshan , Rehman Abdul , Avais Muhammad , Jabeen Chanda , Sadiq Shakera , Maqsood Rubab , Rashid Hamad Bin , Afzal Saira , Chaudhry Mamoona
Published: August 2023

Background

Influenza and tuberculosis both cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the burden of influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 virus infection among human tuberculosis patients and the general population.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted among a cohort group (TB positive patients) as exposed and a comparison group (general population) as non-exposed. A total of 304 participants were recruited in both groups and followed for a period of 12 weeks. Of the 304 concurrently enrolled individuals, 152 were TB-positive patients (cohort group) and 152 were from the general population (comparison group).To calculate the sample size, the power of study was kept at 80% for detecting a difference at 5% alpha level assuming the 25% prevalence of respiratory viruses in cohort group compared to 12.5% in general population. An oropharyngeal swab was taken from a participant with symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI). Samples were tested by conventional reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for the detection of influenza A (H1N1)pdm09. All statistical analyses were conducted using R software.

Results

A total of 95 participants developed influenza-like illness (ILI) symptoms. Among these, 64 tested positive for influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, of which 39 were from the exposed group and 25 were from the non-exposed group. During the 12-week period of follow-up, the influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 incidence rate was 20 per 1000 people. The risk of testing positive for influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 was 1.66 times higher in the exposed group compared to the non-exposed group. The cumulative incidence indicated that 25% of the TB cohort and 16% of the comparison group were at risk of getting influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 during the 12 weeks of follow-up.

Conclusion

Participants from the TB cohort had a higher incidence of influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 than the general population suggesting that they should be prioritized for influenza vaccination.
Characteristics and treatment outcomes of co-infected tuberculosis patients with human immunodeficiency virus in Southeast China, 2012–2021
Authors: Zhou Yinfa , Li Tao , Lin Shufang , Chen Daiquan , Du Yongcheng , Chen Jiangfeng , Chen Kun , Dai Zhisong
Published: August 2023

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic respiratory infection. Co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been a significant obstacle to TB control. Insufficient attention has been given to TB/HIV, and more information is needed to address this issue. We conducted an observational study to investigate the epidemiological characteristics, treatment outcomes and its associated factors of HIV-positive TB patients in Southeast China.

Methods

An observational study was conducted based on data collected directly from China National TB Surveillance System during 2012–2021. Epidemiological characteristics, drug resistance and outcomes were described as frequency (n) and percentage (%). Risk factors for unsuccessful outcomes were determined using univariate (chi-squared) and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 347 TB/HIV cases were included, and the proportion of HIV-positive cases among all TB cases increased significantly from 0.06% to 2012 to 0.40% in 2021. The majority of cases were males (86.5%), non-local household registers (139, 40.1%), farmers or workers (179, 51.6%), and aged 40–59 (142, 40.9%). Of 347 cases, 290 (83.6%) had pulmonary TB (PTB), 10 (2.9%) had extra pulmonary TB (EPTB) and 47(13.5%) had both PTB and EPTB. A total A total of 258 (74.4%) were HIV positive prior to TB diagnosis. 8.0% (4/50) of cases were resistant to rifampicin (RIF) and 274 patients (83.8%) had successful outcomes. Being non-local (AOR = 2.193, 95% CI = 1.196–4.022, P = 0.011) and diagnosed HIV infection after TB (AOR = 2.365, 95% CI = 1.263–4.430, P = 0.007) were independent risk factors for unsuccessful outcomes of anti-TB treatment.

Conclusion

During 2012–2021, the proportion of HIV-positive cases among all TB cases increased significantly in Southeast China. HIV-positive TB patients were significantly more likely to develop resistance to RIF and INH and unsuccessful anti-TB treatment. Non-local registration and becoming HIV positive after TB diagnosis were independent risk factors associated with unsuccessful outcomes.
Length of stay and determinants of early discharge after facility-based childbirth in Cameroon: analysis of the 2018 Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Fouogue Jovanny Tsuala , Semaan Aline , Smekens Tom , Day Louise-Tina , Filippi Veronique , Mitsuaki Matsui , Fouelifack Florent Ymele , Kenfack Bruno , Fouedjio Jeanne Hortence , Delvaux Thérèse , Beňová Lenka
Published: August 2023

Background

A minimum length of stay following facility birth is a prerequisite for women and newborns to receive the recommended monitoring and package of postnatal care. The first postnatal care guidelines in Cameroon were issued in 1998 but adherence to minimum length of stay has not been assessed thus far. The objective of this study was to estimate the average length of stay and identify determinants of early discharge after facility birth.

Methods

We analyzed the Cameroon 2018 Demographic and Health Survey. We included 4,567 women who had a live birth in a heath facility between 2013 and 2018. We calculated their median length of stay in hours by mode of birth and the proportion discharged early (length of stay < 24 h after vaginal birth or < 5 days after caesarean section). We assessed the association between sociodemographic, context-related, facility-related, obstetric and need-related factors and early discharge using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

The median length of stay (inter quartile range) was 36 (9–84) hours after vaginal birth (n = 4,290) and 252 (132–300) hours after caesarean section (n = 277). We found that 28.8% of all women who gave birth in health facilities were discharged too early (29.7% of women with vaginal birth and 15.1% after a caesarean section). Factors which significantly predicted early discharge in multivariable regression were: maternal age < 20 years (compared to 20–29 years, aOR: 1.44; 95%CI 1.13–1.82), unemployment (aOR: 0.78; 95%CI: 0.63–0.96), non-Christian religions (aOR: 1.65; 95CI: 1.21–2.24), and region of residence—Northern zone aOR:9.95 (95%CI:6.53–15.17) and Forest zone aOR:2.51 (95%CI:1.79–3.53) compared to the country’s capital cities (Douala or Yaounde). None of the obstetric characteristics was associated with early discharge.

Conclusions

More than 1 in 4 women who gave birth in facilities in Cameroon were discharged too early; this mostly affected women following vaginal birth. The reasons leading to lack of adherence to postnatal care guidelines should be better understood and addressed to reduce preventable complications and provide better support to women and newborns during this critical period.
Maternal mental health after infant discharge: a quasi-experimental clinical trial of family integrated care versus family-centered care for preterm infants in U.S. NICUs
Authors: Franck Linda S. , Gay Caryl L. , Hoffmann Thomas J. , Kriz Rebecca M. , Bisgaard Robin , Cormier Diana M. , Joe Priscilla , Lothe Brittany , Sun Yao
Published: August 2023

Background

Involvement in caregiving and tailored support services may reduce the risk of mental health symptoms for mothers after their preterm infant’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) discharge. We aimed to compare Family-Centered Care (FCC) with mobile-enhanced Family-Integrated Care (mFICare) on post-discharge maternal mental health symptoms.

Method

This quasi-experimental study enrolled preterm infant (≤ 33 weeks)/parent dyads from three NICUs into sequential cohorts: FCC or mFICare. We analyzed post-discharge symptoms of perinatal post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression using intention-to-treat and per protocol approaches.

Results

178 mothers (89 FCC; 89 mFICare) completed measures. We found no main effect of group assignment. We found an interaction between group and stress, indicating fewer PTSD and depression symptoms among mothers who had higher NICU-related stress and received mFICare, compared with mothers who had high stress and received FCC (PTSD: interaction β=-1.18, 95% CI: -2.10, -0.26; depression: interaction β=-0.76, 95% CI: -1.53, 0.006). Per protocol analyses of mFICare components suggested fewer PTSD and depression symptoms among mothers who had higher NICU stress scores and participated in clinical team rounds and/or group classes, compared with mothers who had high stress and did not participate in rounds or classes.

Conclusion

Overall, post-discharge maternal mental health symptoms did not differ between the mFICare and FCC groups. However, for mothers with high levels of stress during the NICU stay, mFICare was associated with fewer post-discharge PTSD and depression symptoms.
Perception of risk of relapse among patients with first episode and recurrent schizophrenia: a descriptive phenomenological study
Authors: Yu Hong , Sun Yu-jing , Qin Meng-nan , Ren Jia-xin , Yu Kai , Song Jin , Zhou Yu-qiu , Liu Li
Published: August 2023

Background

Patients suffering from schizophrenia are at a higher risk of relapse. The perception of the risk of relapse in patients is critical for relapse prevention. In the field of psychiatry, the study of risk perception of relapse has been neglected.

Methods

We carried out a qualitative study using a descriptive phenomenological approach. Data were collected at two psychiatric hospitals in China. In total, 22 patients with schizophrenia were recruited through purposive sampling. Face to face semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted. Interview recordings were transcribed by the research team, and transcripts were analysed by two independent coders with Colaizzi’s descriptive analysis framework. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research checklist were used for reporting.

Results

The data of first-episode patients yielded three themes: (i) lack of knowledge about disease recognition and medical treatment; (ii) overoptimistic estimation of the risk of relapse; (iii) perceived importance of treatment. For first-relapse patients : (i) initial awareness of relapse warning signs; (ii) lack of systematic and accurate assessment of disease information; (iii) the perception that drug withdrawal is related to relapse. Patients with multiple relapses: (i) susceptibility to relapse: confusion and powerlessness; (ii) the severity of relapse: suicidal thoughts and behavior; (iii) effects of perceived benefits and barriers of medication behaviour.

Conclusions

In schizophrenic patients with first-episode, first-relapse, and multiple relapses, there were dynamic changes in the perception of disease relapse risk and medication behaviour. Medical workers must improve risk awareness education. They should provide patients with scientific, accurate, and timely communication channels, and dynamically assess and manage the risk of relapse in various patients.
The effectiveness of biophysical agents in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome- an umbrella review
Authors: Dabbagh Armaghan , Ziebart Christina , MacDermid Joy C , Packham Tara , Grewal Ruby
Published: August 2023

Background

Our objective was to summarize, synthesize, and integrate the evidence evaluating the effectiveness of biophysical agents compared to other conservative treatments, for the management of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Methods

This was an overview of systematic reviews (SRs). We searched several online databases and obtained SRs relating to managing CTS using biophysical agents. Two independent researchers screened and appraised the quality of the SRs using the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews-2 appraisal tool. We extracted information related to study characteristics as well as the effectiveness of biophysical agents for CTS, the effect sizes, and between-group significances. We categorized the information based on the type of biophysical agent. We also performed a citation mapping and calculated the corrected covered area index.

Results

We found 17 SRs addressing 12 different biophysical agents. The quality of the SRs was mainly critically low (n = 16) or low (n = 1). The evidence was inconclusive for the effectiveness of Low-level Laser therapy and favorable for the short-term efficacy of non-thermal ultrasound in improving symptom severity, function, pain, global rating of improvement, satisfaction with treatment, and other electrophysiological measures compared to manual therapy or placebo. Evidence was inconclusive for Extracorporeal Shockwave therapy, and favorable for the short-term effectiveness of Shortwave and Microwave Diathermy on pain and hand function. The corrected covered area index was lower than 35% indicating a low overlap of the SRs.

Conclusions

The findings were based on low-quality primary studies, with an unclear or high risk of bias, small sample sizes, and short follow-ups. Therefore, no recommendations can be made for the long-term effectiveness of any biophysical agents. High-quality evidence is needed to support evidence-based recommendations on the use of biophysical agents in the management of CTS.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022319002, registered on 17/04/2022
Stevioside reduces inflammation in periodontitis by changing the oral bacterial composition and inhibiting P. gingivalis in mice
Authors: Han Wenrui , Jiao Yao , Mi Sicong , Han Shu , Xu Junji , Li Song , Liu Yi , Guo Lijia
Published: August 2023

Background

Excessive sugar intake has become a major challenge in modern societies. Stevioside is a promising non-calorie sweetener with anti-inflammatory effects; however, its effects on the oral environment and periodontitis remain unclear. Therefore, this study explores the effect of stevioside on periodontitis in mice.

Methods

Mice were divided into four groups, namely, control, treated with water, and periodontitis models, established using 5 − 0 silk sutures ligation around the second molar then infected the oral cavity with Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) viscous suspension, divided into three groups treated with 0.1% stevioside (P + S), 10% glucose (P + G), or water (P). Micro-CT scanning was used to assess alveolar bone resorption, while RT-PCR was used to evaluate the inflammatory factors expression and P. gingivalis invasion in the gingiva. The composition of the oral bacteria was analysed using 16 S rRNA sequence in the saliva. In addition, P. gingivalis was co-cultured with stevioside at different concentrations in vitro, and bacterial activity was detected via optical density values and live/dead staining. The virulence was detected using RT-PCR, while biofilm formation was detected using scanning electron microscopy.

Results

Compared with 10% glucose, treatment with 0.1% stevioside reduced alveolar bone absorption and osteoclasts while decreasing IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, and P. gingivalis in the gingiva of periodontitis mice. The CEJ-ABC distance in the P + S group was significantly lower than that in the P and P + G groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the composition of the oral bacteria in the P + S group was similar to that of the control. In vitro stevioside treatment also reduced the bacterial activity and toxicity of P. gingivalis in a dose-dependent manner and affected its biofilm composition.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that, compared with 10% glucose, 0.1% stevioside intake can reduce alveolar bone resorption and inflammation in periodontal tissues in mice; the bacterial composition following 0.1% stevioside intake was similar to that of a healthy environment. In vitro, high concentrations of stevioside reduced P. gingivalis activity, biofilm formation, and virulence expression. Therefore, stevioside is a potential alternative to glucose for patients with periodontitis.