bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body mass index, waist circumference, insulin, and leptin plasma levels differentiate between clozapine-responsive and clozapine-resistant schizophrenia
Authors: Hönig Guillermo , Daray Federico M , Rodante Demián , Drucaroff Lucas , Gutiérrez María Laura , Lenze Mariela , García Bournissen Facundo , Wikinski Silvia
Published: June 2023

Background:

Between 25% and 50% of patients suffering from treatment-resistant schizophrenia fail to achieve a clinical response with clozapine. The rapid identification and treatment of this subgroup of patients represents a challenge for healthcare practice.

Aims:

To evaluate the relationship between metabolic alterations and the clinical response to clozapine.

Methods:

A multicenter, observational, case–control study was performed. Patients diagnosed with schizophrenia treated with clozapine were eligible (minimum dose 400 mg/d for at least 8 weeks and/or clozapine plasma levels ⩾ 350 µg/mL). According to the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total score, patients were classified as clozapine-responsive (CR) (<80 points) or clozapine non-responsive (CNR) (⩾80 points). Groups were compared based on demographic and treatment-related characteristics, together with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, insulin, leptin, and C-reactive protein plasma levels. Plasma levels of clozapine and its main metabolite, nor-clozapine, were measured in all the participants. In addition, the potential relationship between PANSS scores and leptin or insulin plasma levels was assessed.

Results:

A total of 46 patients were included: 25 CR and 21 CNR. BMI and waist circumference, fasting insulin and leptin plasma levels were lower in the CNR group, while C-reactive protein was not different. Moreover, significant negative correlations were observed between PANSS positive and general psychopathology subscores, on one hand, and insulin and leptin plasma levels, on the other hand, as well as between PANSS negative subscores and leptin plasma levels.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that the lack of metabolic effect induced by clozapine is associated with the lack of clinical response.
Detection and diagnosis of Panulirus argus virus 1 in captive spiny lobsters using qPCR in conjunction with histopathology and transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Elliott Jacqueline E. , Torres Jamie M. , Bauer Rudy W. , Del Piero Fabio , Sokolova Yuliya Y. , Hawke John P.
Published: June 2023

Panulirus argus virus 1 (PaV1) is the first and only naturally occurring pathogenic virus described in the Caribbean spiny lobster, Panulirus argus. PaV1 infection in decapod species that commonly co-occur with P. argus, including the spotted spiny lobster Panulirus guttatus, has not been previously described. In 2016, 14 Caribbean and 5 spotted spiny lobsters were collected near Summerland Key, Florida, to supplement the resident population of the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas in New Orleans, Louisiana. After 5 months in quarantine, Caribbean and spotted spiny lobsters began to exhibit clinical signs of lethargy and dying in the molt. Initial histologic evaluation revealed intranuclear inclusion bodies in circulating hemocytes in the spongy connective tissue of the epidermis, suggesting a viral infection. Samples of hepatopancreas and hemolymph from deceased Caribbean and spotted spiny lobsters tested negative for white spot syndrome virus and positive for PaV1 using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Intranuclear, eosinophilic to amphophilic, Cowdry type A inclusion bodies observed primarily within fixed phagocytes and circulating hemocytes in the hepatopancreas of freshly euthanized Caribbean spiny lobsters were consistent with PaV1 infection. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that hemocytes associated with hepatopancreatic tubules contained viral inclusions with location, size, and morphology consistent with previously described PaV1 infection. These findings highlight the significance of using molecular diagnostics in conjunction with histopathology and electron microscopy in the investigation and diagnosis of PaV1 in spiny lobsters. Further study is required to investigate the relationship of PaV1-associated mortality events and microscopic lesions in the spotted spiny lobster.
Citrobacter freundii-associated lesions in stranded loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)
Authors: Inurria Alicia , Suárez-Pérez Alejandro , Calabuig Pascual , Orós Jorge
Published: June 2023

Citrobacter freundii, an opportunistic bacterial pathogen belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae, has been sporadically reported in sea turtles. Here, the authors describe 3 unusual lesions associated with C. freundii infection in 3 loggerhead sea turtles stranded on the coast of Gran Canaria Island, Spain. It is possible that these 3 distinct lesions played a major role in the death of these turtles. The first turtle had caseous cholecystitis, a lesion not previously described in sea turtles. The second turtle had large intestinal diverticulitis, a rare condition in loggerheads. The third turtle had bilateral caseous salt gland adenitis. Histologically, numerous gram-negative bacilli were observed at the deepest edge of inflammation in all cases. Pure cultures of C. freundii were obtained from these 3 lesions. Molecular detection of C. freundii DNA in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples from the lesions of the 3 turtles confirmed the microbiological isolation. These cases, in addition to expanding the limited body of knowledge on bacterial infections in sea turtles, highlight the potential pathogenic role of C. freundii in loggerhead turtles.
Contested values of development: Experiencing commodification of livelihoods through displacement and resettlement in Mozambique
Authors: Otsuki Kei
Published: June 2023

This article examines how and why values are created and contested in the process of development, using an example of development-induced displacement and resettlement in Mozambique. It pays particular attention to the social-material effects of compensation, provided as cash, resettlement housing, replacement land, and basic infrastructure. Drawing from field research on an urban resettlement project of the Limpopo National Park in Massingir district, the article shows that the compensation leads to commodification of livelihoods by reducing the original, largely social and cultural meaning of the livelihood to predominantly an economic one. This is because the provided housing and land for cultivation are standardised and infrastructure incurs cash payments and new labour arrangements. At the same time, the study elucidates processes by which experiencing displacement and resettlement – and cash and in-kind compensation given in this process and commodification that ensued – led the resettled people to reshape their livelihoods in such a way as to re-establish the familiar houses and organise a collective. Outcomes of this process are ambivalent, as they may accelerate uneven development. Yet, the article expounds that recognising this ambivalence at least opens space for deliberations about addressing the contested values of development.
Cannabidiol as a Harm Reduction Strategy for People Who Use Drugs: A Rapid Review
Authors: Lo Lindsay A. , MacCallum Caroline A. , Nanson Kate , Koehn Michael , Mitchell Ian , Milloy Michael-John , Walsh Zach , Fehr Florriann
Published: June 2023

Objective

The drug poisoning crisis throughout North America necessitates novel harm reduction approaches. Emerging evidence suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) may have some utility as a harm reduction modality for those with problematic substance use. This rapid review aimed to synthesize available evidence on CBD as a potential harm reduction tool for people who use drugs while providing clinical and research insights.

Method

A systematic search in EMBASE, MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and CINAHL was completed in July 2022. For inclusion, studies had to meet the following criteria: (1) drawn from an adult population of people who use drugs; (2) investigates CBD as an intervention for problematic substance use or harm reduction–related outcomes; (3) be published after the year 2000 and in English; and (4) be primary research or a review article. A narrative synthesis was used to group outcomes relevant to harm reduction and provide clinical and research insights.

Results

We screened 3,134 records, of which 27 studies (5 randomized trials) were included. The evidence remains limited, but available studies support the potential utility of CBD to reduce drug-induced craving and anxiety in opioid use disorder. There were low-quality studies suggesting that CBD may improve mood and general well-being of people who use drugs. Evidence suggests that CBD monotherapy may not be an adequate harm reduction strategy for problematic substance use but rather an adjunct to the standard of care.

Conclusion

Low-quality evidence suggests that CBD may reduce drug cravings and other addiction-related symptoms and that CBD may have utility as an adjunct harm reduction strategy for people who use drugs. However, there is a significant need for more research that accurately reflects CBD dosing and administration regimens used in a real-world context.
Factors Influencing the Development of Household Emergency Plans Among Latinos: A Study of Latinos in the United States
Authors: Rivera Jason D.
Published: June 2023

Although the development of a household emergency plan is perceived to be a common way to reduce disaster vulnerability and enhance recovery, many individuals do not participate in this activity. Along these lines, there is a lack of understanding on what influences people to generally engage in this activity, especially among Latinos. As such, this study specifically sought to investigate what influences Latinos in the United States to develop and discuss a household emergency plan. Using the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMAs) 2018 National Household Survey, this study finds that experience with previous disasters, gender, and income all have statistically significant influences on the odds of Latinos developing and discussing a household emergency plan.
A twin-disc study of the role of the surface quality achieved by grinding on the wear resistance and rolling contact fatigue behavior of wheel/rail pairs
Authors: Cuervo PA , Toro A , Meza JM , Santa JF , Lewis R
Published: June 2023

The tribological behavior of wheel and rail material twin-disc samples prepared under laboratory-controlled grinding operations was studied. A laboratory grinding device was designed and validated to produce similar results to those found in the field in terms of surface quality and presence of white etching layer (WEL). The test samples were evaluated in a twin-disc machine under dry and lubricated conditions. The results showed that the surface finishing parameters and the microstructure change greatly depending on the surface preparation procedure, and that such changes affect the tribological response of the samples. The wear rates of the tribological tests for the different rail surface qualities showed a reduction of 47.4% for the lubricated tests and 7.3% for the dry tests when the surfaces of the rail specimens were finished by grinding. This is only applied when the WEL thickness was less than 4 μm.
Robust stabilization and adaptive H∞ control of nonlinear singular systems via static output feedback
Authors: He Kaiqiang , Sun Liying , Yang Renming
Published: June 2023

This article studies robust stabilization and adaptive [Formula: see text] control problems for a class of continuous-time nonlinear singular systems by static output feedback. First, under sufficient conditions which the system is impulse controllable, the static output feedback controller is designed, and the stabilization problem of the system is discussed. Second, the [Formula: see text] and adaptive [Formula: see text] controllers are designed for the continuous-time nonlinear singular systems with external disturbances. Compared with the existing conclusions, the controller can be designed for more nonlinear singular systems. Finally, an example of a nonlinear singular circuit is given, and the simulation results verify the validity of the proposed controllers.
Book review: Colin Beck, Mlada Bukovansky, Erica Chenoweth, George Lawson, Sharon Nepstad and Daniel Ritter, On Revolutions: Unruly Politics in the Contemporary World
Authors: Tantray Bilal Ahmad
Published: June 2023

Colin Beck, Mlada Bukovansky, Erica Chenoweth, George Lawson, Sharon Nepstad and Daniel Ritter, On Revolutions: Unruly Politics in the Contemporary World. Oxford University Press, 2022, pp. 246, ₹2106. ISBN 978-0-19-763836-1 (paperback).
Book review: Sergey Marochkin and Yury Bezborodov (eds), The Shanghai Cooperation Organization: Exploring New Horizons
Authors: Joshi Nirmala
Published: June 2023

Sergey Marochkin and Yury Bezborodov (eds), The Shanghai Cooperation Organization: Exploring New Horizons. Routledge, 2022, pp. x–xx, 1–236, ₹9169 (hardcover), ₹4061 (Kindle), ISBN: 9780367772802.
The Belt and Road Initiative: Issues and Future Trends
Authors: Upadhyay Shreya
Published: June 2023

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a China-led plan that involves infrastructure and construction projects in more than 140 countries, out of which 65 countries account for 30% of the world’s gross domestic product, 35% of the world’s trade, 39% of the global land, 64% of the world’s population, 54% of the world’s CO2 emissions and 50% of the world’s energy consumption (Du & Zhang, 2018, China Economic Review, 47, 189–205). The project announced in 2013 is often considered Chinese Premier Xi Jinping’s dream. It quickly grew in sectoral and geographical complexity from the Arctic to deep oceans, to Latin American countries, Africa and even collaborations in maritime and outer space. Nine years into the making, the project suffered disruption in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Travel restrictions and lockdowns led to suspension and slowdown in the project. However, the Chinese leadership continues to remain optimistic regarding the BRI and is opting for digital, health and sustainability models to keep the initiative running. The article analyses the strategic and economic significance of the BRI from its inception to now. It focuses on the impact of the pandemic on the BRI and stakeholders’ responses to the project, and looks into attempts by China to make it a success in the post-pandemic world.
Presumptive hepatogenous photosensitization in beef cattle winter grazing a cover crop containing Brassica spp. turnips
Authors: Hille Matthew M. , Fritz Scott A. , Brown Breanna C.
Published: June 2023

Over a period of ~2 wk, 5 adult beef cows developed severe necrotizing skin lesions on the face and neck shortly after being moved to a field with a cover crop of Brassica spp. turnips. We describe here the clinical signs, hematology, and serum chemistry results, as well as gross and histopathologic findings, from this outbreak. We made a presumptive diagnosis of Brassica-associated liver disease (BALD) based on the similarities in the history and diagnostic findings observed with previously reported cases of BALD from elsewhere in the world. BALD has not been reported previously in cattle in North America, to our knowledge, despite the increasing usage of cover crops to improve soil conditions and provide forage for livestock. After the presumptive diagnosis of BALD was made, the cattle were removed from the turnip field and no additional cases were noted by the producer. BALD is well known in other parts of the world, and veterinarians and diagnosticians should be aware of this condition given that the usage of cover crops is likely to continue to increase.
Profiles of Parental Burnout Around the Globe: Similarities and Differences Across 36 Countries
Authors: Matias Marisa , Aguiar Joyce , Fontaine Anne Marie , Akgun Ege , Arikan Gizem , Aunola Kaisa , Barham Elizabeth , Beyers Wim , Boujut Emilie , Brytek-Matera Anna , Carbonneau Noémie , César Filipa , Chen Bin-Bin , Dorard Géraldine , Dunsmuir Sandra , Egorova Natalia , Elias Luciana , Favez Nicolas , Foran Heather M. , Furutani Kaichiro , Gannagé Myrna , Gaspar Maria , Godbout Lucie , Gross James , Hatta Ogma , Huynh Mai-Trang , Kellou Nassima , Knezevic Goran , Lazarevic Ljiljana , Le Vigouroux Sarah , Leme Vanessa , Manrique-Millones Denisse , Millones Rivalles Rosa , Miranda-Orrego María Isabel , Miscioscia Marina , Morgades-Bamba Clara I. , Mousavi Seyyedeh Fatemeh , Moutassem-Mimouni Badra , Muntean Ana , Murphy Hugh , Tenkue Josué Ngnombouowo , Osman Fatumo , Oyarce Cadiz Daniela , Pérez-Díaz Pablo A. , Petrides Konstantinos , Scola Céline , Simonelli Alessandra , Soenens Bart , Sorbring Emma , Sorkkila Matilda , Stănculescu Elena , Starchenkova Elena , Szczygiel Dorota , Tremblay Mélissa , Ustundag-Budak A. Meltem , van Bakel Hedwig , Verhofstadt Lesley , Wendland Jaqueline , Mikolajczak Moira , Roskam Isabelle
Published: June 2023

Parental burnout (PB) is a pervasive phenomenon. Parenting is embedded in cultural values, and previous research has shown the role of individualism in PB. In this paper, we reanalyze previously collected data to identify profiles based on the four dimensions of PB, and explore whether these profiles vary across countries’ levels of collectivistic-individualistic (COL-IND) values. Our sample comprised 16,885 individuals from 36 countries (73% women; 27% men), and we used a latent profile approach to uncover PB profiles. The findings showed five profiles: Fulfilled, Not in PB, Low risk of PB, High risk of PB and Burned out. The profiles pointed to climbing levels of PB in the total sample and in each of the three country groups (High COL/Low IND, Medium COL-IND, Low COL/High IND). Exploratory analyses revealed that distinct dimensions of PB had the most prominent roles in the climbing pattern, depending on the countries’ levels of COL/IND. In particular, we found contrast to be a hallmark dimension and an indicator of severe burnout for individualistic countries. Contrary to our predictions, emotional distance and saturation did not allow a clear differentiation across collectivistic countries. Our findings support several research avenues regarding PB measurement and intervention.
Association Between Opioid Use Disorder and Seizure Incidents Among Alcohol Use Disorder Patients
Authors: Furo Hiroko , Podichetty Ankita , Whitted Marisa , Zhou Yi Yuan , Torres Francis , Brimhall Bradley B.
Published: June 2023

Many previous studies have discussed an association between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and seizure incidents. There are also case reports of seizures during opioid withdrawals. Therefore, it is possible that AUD patients may have a higher risk of seizures if they also have opioid use disorder (OUD). However, it remains unproven whether AUD patients with a dual diagnosis of OUD have higher seizure incidents, to our knowledge. This study explored seizure incidents among the patients with a dual diagnosis of AUD and OUD as well as seizures among AUD only or OUD only patients. This study utilized de-identified data from 30 777 928 hospital inpatient encounters at 948 healthcare systems over 4 years (9/1/2018-8/31/2022) from the Vizient® Clinical Database for this study. Applying the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10) diagnostic codes, AUD (1 953 575), OUD (768 982), and seizure (1 209 471) encounters were retrieved from the database to examine the effects of OUD on seizure incidence among AUD patients. This study also stratified patient encounters for demographic factors such as gender, age, and race, as well as the Vizient-categorized primary payer. Greatest gender differences were identified among AUD followed by OUD, and seizure patient groups. The mean age for seizure incidents was 57.6 years, while that of AUD was 54.7 years, and OUD 48.9 years. The greatest proportion of patients in all 3 groups were White, followed by Black, with Medicare being the most common primary payer in all 3 categories. Seizure incidents were statistically more common ( P < .001, chi-square) in patients with a dual diagnosis of AUD and OUD (8.07%) compared to those with AUD only (7.55%). The patients with the dual diagnosis had a higher odd ratio than those with AUD only or OUD only. These findings across more than 900 health systems provide a greater understanding of seizure risks. Consequently, this information may help in triaging AUD and OUD patients in certain higher-risk demographic groups.
Third-Sector Advocacy: An Exploration of the Work of Community Food Providers
Authors: Gordon Katy , Tonner Andrea , Wilson Juliette
Published: June 2023

This article explores advocative work of third-sector community food providers in Scotland. The article argues these organisations can contribute to tackling household food insecurity through their advocative work, recognising that state-led policy on household income is needed. Capturing the advocacy of these organisations, rather than focussing solely on their service provision can provide insight that is largely missing from existing community food scholarships. The research adopts a quasi-ethnographic qualitative approach with 16 grassroots community food providers and 5 meso-level support organisations. The findings identify advocacy practices undertaken, targeted at political and public audiences and national and local institutional layers. It highlights the tensions of this work, including fears of exacerbating a failing system. The findings also evidence a complementary, symbiotic, and reciprocally strengthening relationship between service provision and advocacy by third-sector organisations. These contributions demonstrate the potential of this sector to contribute to social change required to address the root causes of household food insecurity.
Seismic design of buckling-restrained knee-braced frames considering cumulative damage
Authors: Naiyana Natakan , Leelataviwat Sutat , Limkatanyu Suchart
Published: June 2023

A buckling-restrained knee-braced frame (BRKBF) is an efficient structural system utilizing short buckling-restrained braces (BRBs) as knee bracing elements. Because of the shorter yielding core length compared to those of conventional BRBs, one of the key parameters concerning the performance of this system is the low cycle fatigue cumulative damage of the BRBs. This paper presents a seismic design method considering the cumulative damage, performance evaluation, and collapse assessment of 3-story, 6-story, and 9-story archetype BRKBFs. An energy-based plastic design method was utilized to design the example frames. The frames were then evaluated by nonlinear static analysis and multiple-stripe analysis (MSA). The results indicated that BRKBs were able to accommodate seismic motions with limited damage. The validity of the design methodology considering cumulative damage was also confirmed.
Development and validation of a simple microwave-assisted digestion sample preparation technique for the estimation of aluminium and magnesium in a few pharmaceutical dosage forms by an inductively coupled-mass spectrometer (ICP-MS)
Authors: Pal Ashish Kumar , Sundararajan Raja
Published: June 2023

Rationale: A simple, sensitive, reliable, validated, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric method for the determination of aluminium and magnesium using a simple common microwave-assisted digestion sample preparation technique for a few commonly used formulations was developed and validated according to International Conference on Harmonization Q3D and the United States Pharmacopeia general chapter <232> and <233>. The following pharmaceutical dosage forms were considered for estimation of aluminium and magnesium: Alumina, magnesia simethicone oral suspension, Alumina, magnesia simethicone chewable tablets, alumina and magnesia oral suspension, alumina and magnesium carbonate oral suspension. Methods: The methodology included optimizing a common microwave assisted digestion method, selecting the isotopes, choosing the measurement technique, and designating internal standards. The finalized microwave assisted procedure was a two-step program where in the first step the samples were ramped for 10 min to a temperature of 180 °C and hold for 5 min followed by ramping for 10 min to a temperature of 200 °C and hold for 10 min. Magnesium (24Mg) and aluminium (27Al) isotopes were finalized, internal standard assigned for both the isotopes was yttrium (89Y) with Helium (kinetic energy discrimination-KED) as the measuring mode. System suitability was run before initiating analysis to ensure that system performance was consistent. Results: Analytical validation parameters like specificity, linearity (from 25% to 200% of sample concentration), the detection limit and the limit of quantification were established. For all these dosage forms, the method's precision was demonstrated by analyzing the percentage relative standard deviation for six injections. Accuracy was established from 50% to 150% of instrument working concentration (J-levels) for aluminium and magnesium for all the formulations and was found to be within the range of 90–120%. Conclusion: This common analysis method, along with the common microwave-digestion technique applies to numerous types of matrices for a finished dosage form with aluminium and magnesium.
Getting a Foothold on Diabetic Foot Disease—Outcomes of a Multidisciplinary Clinical Pathway for Inpatient Diabetic Foot Care: A 17-Year Institutional Review
Authors: Yong Enming , Gong Haiqing , Liew Huiling , Chan Yam Meng , Neo Shufen , Pan Ying , Pua Uei , Lo Zhiwen Joseph , Zhang Li , Mak Malcolm , Chong Lester , Hong Qiantai , Tan Glenn Wei Leong , Chua Min Jia , Bin Mohd Fadil Muhammad Farhan , Chandrasekar Sadhana
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Diabetes foot disease (DFD) contributes to poor quality of life, clinical and economic burden. Multidisciplinary diabetes foot teams provide prompt access to specialist teams thereby improving limb salvage. We present a 17-year review of an inpatient multidisciplinary clinical care path (MCCP) for DFD in Singapore.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients admitted for DFD and enrolled in our MCCP to a 1700-bed university hospital from 2005 to 2021.

Results

There were 9279 patients admitted with DFD with a mean of 545 (±119) admissions per year. The mean age was 64 (±13.3) years, 61% were Chinese, 18% Malay and 17% Indian. There was a higher proportion of Malay (18%) and Indian (17%) patients compared to the country's ethnic composition. A third of the patients had end stage renal disease and prior contralateral minor amputation. There was a reduction in inpatient major lower extremity amputation (LEA) from 18.2% in 2005 to 5.4% in 2021 (odds ratio 0.26, 95% confidence interval 0.16-0.40, P < .001) which was the lowest since pathway inception. Mean time from admission to first surgical intervention was 2.8 days and mean time from decision for revascularization to procedure was 4.8 days. The major-to-minor amputation rate reduced from 1.09 in 2005 to 0.18 in 2021, reflecting diabetic limb salvage efforts. Mean and median length of stay (LOS) for patients in the pathway was 8.2 (±14.9) and 5 (IQR = 3) days, respectively. There was a gradual trend of increase in the mean LOS from 2005 to 2021. Inpatient mortality and readmission rate was stable at 1% and 11%.

Conclusion

Since the institution of a MCCP, there was a significant improvement in major LEA rate. An inpatient multidisciplinary diabetic foot care path helped to improve care for patients with DFD.
N-acetylcysteine improves autism-like behavior by recovering autophagic deficiency and decreasing Notch-1/Hes-1 pathway activity
Authors: Zhang Ying-Hua , Wang Ting , Li Yan-Fang , Deng Ya-Nan , He Xue-Ling , Wang Li-Jun
Published: June 2023

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has been reported to improve social interaction behavior, irritability, self-injury, and anxiety-like behavior in autism. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the therapeutic roles of NAC in autism remains unknown. This study mainly aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of NAC on valproic acid (VPA)-induced autism model and the underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that NAC ameliorated the deficits in sociability and the anxiety- and repetitive-like behaviors displayed by VPA-exposed rats. In addition, VPA exposure induced autophagic deficiency and enhanced Notch-1/Hes-1 pathway activity based on lowered Beclin-1 and LC3B levels, while increased expression of p62, Notch-1, and Hes-1 expression at the protein level. However, NAC recovered VPA-induced autophagic deficiency and reduced Notch-1/Hes-1 pathway activity in a VPA-exposed autism rat model and SH-SY5Y neural cells. The present results demonstrated that NAC improves autism-like behavioral abnormalities by inactivating Notch-1/Hes-1 signaling pathway and recovering autophagic deficiency. Taken together, this study helps to elucidate a novel molecular mechanism that underlies the therapeutic actions of NAC in autism and suggests its potential to ameliorate behavioral abnormalities in neurodevelopmental disorders.
Angiolymphoid Hyperplasia With Temporal Artery Eosinophilia: A Case Report
Authors: Carvalho Lujan Ricardo Augusto , de Melo Mascarenhas Diego Antonio , de Amorim Aquino Maurício , Costa Menezes Aline , Pereira de Souza Filho Marcelo Luis , Costa Sampaio Silva Fernanda , Godeiro Fernandez Miguel , Silveira Alves Carlos Alberto , Aras Júnior Roque
Published: June 2023

Angiolymphoid Hyperplasia with Eosinophilia (ALHE) is a benign vascular proliferative disorder with uncertain etiology and pathogenesis. The aim of this paper is to report a case of ALHE in the temporal artery and discuss the general aspects of this pathology. A 29-year-old female black patient sought the Vascular Surgery Outpatient Service, complaining of bulging in the right temporal region, associated with pain and local discomfort. Physical examination revealed pulsatile bulging in the right temporal region measuring approximately 2.5 × 1.5 cm. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance showed an expansive fusiform lesion in the superficial soft parts of the right temporal region, measuring 2.9 cm in the longest longitudinal axis. Surgical excision proved to be the best therapeutic option for the patient in this case. Histopathological sections showed the proliferation of vessels of different sizes, covered by swollen endothelium, prominent inflammatory infiltrate composed of lymphocytes, plasma cells, eosinophils, and scarce histiocytes. Immunohistochemical analysis of the lesion showed positivity for CD31, corroborating the diagnosis of ALHE.
Measuring women’s sexual autonomy: Development and preliminary validation of the women’s sexual autonomy scale
Authors: Willie Tiara C , Callands Tamora , Alexander Kamila A , Kershaw Trace
Published: June 2023

Background:

Sexual autonomy is an influential component of sexual health risk reduction frameworks, but a universal assessment of sexual autonomy is currently lacking.

Objectives:

This study develops and validates the Women’s Sexual Autonomy scale (WSA), a comprehensive measure that captures women’s perception of their sexual autonomy.

Design:

Forty-one items were initially created based on current research and in consultation with sexual health experts. In Phase I, a cross-sectional study with 127 women was conducted to finalize the scale. In Phase II, a cross-sectional study with 218 women was conducted to test the stability and validity of the scale. A confirmatory factor analysis was conducted with an independent sample of 218 participants.

Methods:

In Phase I, principal component analysis with promax rotation was conducted to examine the factor structure for the sexual autonomy scale. Cronbach’s alphas were conducted to assess the internal consistency of the sexual autonomy scale. In Phase II, confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to confirm the factor structure of the scale. Logistic and linear regressions were used to assess validity of the scale. Unwanted condomless sex and coercive sexual risk were used to test construct validity. Intimate partner violence was used to test predictive validity.

Results:

Exploratory factor analysis identified four factors across 17 items: 4 items on sexual cultural scripting (Factor 1), 5 items on sexual communication (Factor 2), 4 items on sexual empowerment (Factor 3), and 4 items on sexual assertiveness (Factor 4). Internal consistency for the total scale and subscales were adequate. The WSA scale showed construct validity by negatively relating to unwanted condomless sex and coercive sexual risk, and predictive validity by negatively relating to partner violence.

Conclusion:

The results of this study suggest the WSA scale provides a valid, reliable assessment of sexual autonomy for women. This measure can be incorporated into future studies investigating sexual health.
Servicewomen’s experiences of managing pelvic health in occupational settings
Authors: Freire Kate , O’Shea Simone , Pope Rod , Orr Rob
Published: June 2023

Background:

Despite increasing numbers of women serving in defence forces worldwide, little is currently known about how servicewomen manage their pelvic health in the traditionally male environment of the military.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to explore the impacts of pelvic health issues on Australian Defence Force servicewomen and their experiences of managing their pelvic health in occupational settings.

Design:

A qualitative hermeneutic design.

Methods:

Telephone interviews were conducted on six currently serving female members of the Australian Defence Force located Australia-wide. A semi-structured interview guide, based on the study objectives, was used to guide the audio-recorded interviews. Data were analysed thematically.

Results:

Nine themes were identified. The first six themes explored the experiences of servicewomen in maintaining their pelvic health, including suppressing the urge to go, adjusting hydration depending on toilet access, managing menstruation, regaining ‘full’ fitness postpartum, awareness and prevention of pelvic health conditions, and inhibiting conversations about women’s health. The last three themes explored how servicewomen coped with pelvic health conditions, including self-managing symptoms, diagnosing and treating pelvic conditions, and support for servicewomen’s pelvic health.

Conclusion:

This study suggests workplace culture, low levels of insight into pelvic health norms, and limited healthcare strategies within the Australian Defence Force to support female pelvic health have contributed to servicewomen self-managing pelvic health issues using approaches that may have had significant impacts on their health and well-being.
Diagnosis and treatment of “medial to lateral diagonal injury of the elbow” in children: Concomitant medial epicondylar and radial neck fractures
Authors: Lu Yunan , Canavese Federico , Xia Yongjie , Lin Ran , Huang Dianhua , Chen Tianlai , Chen Shunyou
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

The simultaneous and ipsilateral occurrence of medial epicondylar and radial neck fractures is rare. This study evaluated the clinical and radiological outcomes of medial to lateral diagonal injury of the elbow (MELAINE).

Methods:

Six males and 6 females were diagnosed with MELAINE (left: 10, 83.3%; right: 2, 16.7%). Medial epicondylar and radial neck fractures were classified according to Papavasiliou’s classification (seven type II, two type III, three type IV) and Judet’s classification (three type I, four type II and five type III), respectively. All patients underwent surgery. The carrying angle, range of motion, and Kim et al. Elbow Performance Score were used to evaluate clinical and functional outcomes; related complications were recorded.

Results:

Mean age at injury and mean follow-up were 11.1 ± 2.5 (range, 6–14) and 40 ± 25.6 months (range, 13–90), respectively. All fractures consolidated in 6.3 ± 1.2 weeks on average (4–9). Outcomes were good (n = 1; 8.3%) to excellent (n = 11; 91.7%). The carrying angle of the injured and uninjured side was 15.5°± 2.6° and 14.7°± 2°, respectively (p = 0.218). The range of motion of elbow flexion-extension and forearm pronation-supination of the injured side was 144.2°± 10.4°, 4.6°± 5.4°, 76.7°± 9.1°, 80.4°± 9.2°, respectively, with no significant differences from the healthy side (p > 0.05). The Elbow Performance Score of the injured and uninjured side was 96.3 ± 5.3 and 98.8 ± 2.3, respectively (p = 0.139). No cases of infection, cubitus valgus, stiffness, or instability were recorded.

Conclusion:

Although uncommon, MELAINE should not be neglected. Surgery aims to stabilize the elbow and avoid valgus deformity. If diagnosed and treated, clinical and radiological results are excellent in most cases.
Clicks and particulates: Value, alienation, and attunement as unifying themes in big data studies
Authors: Ottinger Gwen , Bronson Kelly , Nafus Dawn
Published: June 2023

Critiques of data colonialism and surveillance capitalism focus on data collected from online behavior. We propose that analytical concepts from these critiques—namely, regimes of value and patterns of alienation and attunement—could be applied more widely to better understand the threats that datafication poses to equity and democracy in the social and environmental realms. Regimes of value, which include the institutions and technologies that make data meaningful and render them selectively available for appropriation, are relevant both to for-profit companies’ data practices and to states’ participation in the datafication of the environment; examining regimes of value raises questions about how data are exploited and how they are neglected. Patterns of alienation associated with datafication include the potential for alienation from the environment; however, at least in some value regimes, alienation may be accompanied by possibilities for attunement to natural and social phenomena that might otherwise have escaped notice.
An information channel under technological blockade: The science and technology information system in China (1956–1966)
Authors: Cao Qi
Published: June 2023

In the 1950s, aided by the Soviet Union, the Chinese government established a multilevel science and technology (S&T) information system covering many regions and professional departments across the country. The system's primary objective was to improve scientific research conditions and promote information exchange. With the deterioration of the Western technological blockade in the 1960s, the system's primary focus shifted to the acquisition of foreign S&T information. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the set-up, growth and activities of China's S&T information system between 1956 and 1966, with particular emphasis on the Institute of Scientific and Technical Information, its core establishment. The article examines how China facilitated S&T exchanges, despite the challenging international environment, and the role of the S&T information system as a crucial information pathway during China's early years under the People's Republic.
Ineffective breastfeeding techniques and associated factors among breastfeeding mothers who gave birth in the last 6 months in Sinan Woreda, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Alemie Kelemu , Eshete Tewodros , Ashebir Wassachew , Gedif Getnet , Desta Melaku , Ayenew Temesgen , Alamneh Alehegn Aderaw , Ketema Daniel Bekele , Tsega Tilahun Degu , Telayneh Animut Takele
Published: June 2023

Background:

Optimal infant feeding is critical for children’s growth and development during their first years of life. Plenty of evidence on ineffective breastfeeding techniques, yet the problem is still deep-rooted and requires further research in Ethiopia.

Objective:

To determine the proportion of ineffective breastfeeding techniques and associated factors among breastfeeding mothers who gave birth in the last 6 months in Sinan Woreda.

Design and methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 10 to April 8, 2021 with a total of 389 samples. A computer-generated simple random sampling was used to select mothers. An observational checklist and interviewer-administered questionnaires were used. EpiData 4.2 for data entry and SPSS 25 for cleaning and analysis were used. Variables with a p-value < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval (CI) corresponding adjusted odds ratio (AOR) were used to identify factors of ineffective breastfeeding techniques.

Results:

The proportion of ineffective breastfeeding techniques was 66.8%. The mean (SD) age of mothers was 29.4 ± 5.95 years. No formal education [AOR: 5.88 (95% CI: (2.97, 11.65)], primipara [AOR: 4.34 (95% CI: 2.25, 8.36)], home delivery [AOR: 3.02 (95% CI: 1.12, 8.14)], not received breastfeeding counseling during antenatal care [AOR: 4.94 (95% CI: 1.83, 13.36)], breast problem [AOR: 2.62 (95% CI: 1.25, 5.48)], and breastfeeding experience [AOR: 1.82 (95% CI: 1.01, 3.28)] were statistically significant factors.

Conclusions:

The proportion of ineffective breastfeeding techniques 66.8% was unacceptable. Socio-demographic and maternal health care services were identified factors. Strengthening maternal care, improving health education and promotions, and designing appropriate strategies were required.
“Writing Right”: A Workshop Approach to Improving Nursing Students’ Writing
Authors: Hutchinson Jennifer C. , Pederson JoEllen
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Effective communication is an essential skill for the professional nurse. Previous research demonstrates that nursing students lack skills in written communication, and there is limited time in the nursing curriculum to provide needed instruction. To address this issue, a writing workshop was provided for students at a regional state university.

Methods

Nursing faculty developed and led four identical in-person sessions of the workshop over the course of one semester. Before and after each workshop, students completed the same quantitative survey.

Results

Data indicate that students’ knowledge and confidence of American Psychological Association (APA) format increased significantly as a result of the workshop.

Conclusion

A workshop approach is a useful strategy to address the writing needs of nursing students.
Does Emergency Medical Services Blood Collection Shorten Time to Tissue Plasminogen Activator in Ischemic Stroke?
Authors: Hulsizer Abigail L. , Davis Sondra , Gibson Caitlin M.
Published: June 2023

Background: Ischemic stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States. To reduce the likelihood of debilitating outcomes, early treatment with fibrinolytics is necessary; however, many struggle to identify strategies that limit time to treatment. The purpose of this study is to identify if implementing a process for obtaining laboratory blood draws by emergency medical services (EMS) prior to patient arrival at the hospital will reduce the door-to-needle time for patients arriving with acute ischemic stroke. Objectives: To compare the door-to-needle time for patients with acute ischemic stroke who had blood drawn via EMS versus in hospital. Methods: This single-center, retrospective cohort study was conducted from 2015 to 2017 at a 433-bed designated Level II Trauma Center and Comprehensive Stroke Center community hospital. A comprehensive chart review was done via stroke coordinator binders and electronic medical record. Adult patients ≥18 years of age with an acute ischemic stroke diagnosis who met criteria for and received alteplase were included in the study. Patients were excluded if they did not arrive via EMS. The primary end point assessed time to fibrinolytic treatment via door-to-needle times. Results: A total of 66 patients were included with 28 in the EMS laboratory drawn group and 38 in the usual group. Median door-to-needle time was 57.5 ± 19.0 minutes in the EMS group and 55.0 ± 31.9 minutes in the usual care group ( p = 0.818). Conclusions: Collection of blood for laboratories by EMS personnel did not significantly shorten door-to-needle time.
Off-the-shelf CAR–engineered natural killer cells targeting FLT3 enhance killing of acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Mansour Anthony G. , Teng Kun-Yu , Li Zhiyao , Zhu Zheng , Chen Hanyu , Tian Lei , Ali Aliya , Zhang Jianying , Lu Ting , Ma Shoubao , Lin Chih-Min , Caligiuri Michael A. , Yu Jianhua
Published: June 2023

The majority of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) succumb to the disease or its complications, especially among older patients. Natural killer (NK) cells have been shown to have antileukemic activity in patients with AML; however, to our knowledge, primary NK cells armed with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting antigens associated with AML as an “off-the-shelf” product for disease control have not been explored. We developed frozen, off-the-shelf allogeneic human NK cells engineered with a CAR recognizing FLT3 and secreting soluble interleukin-15 (IL-15) (FLT3 CAR_sIL-15 NK) to improve in vivo NK cell persistence and T-cell activation. FLT3 CAR_sIL-15 NK cells had higher cytotoxicity and interferon gamma secretion against FLT3+ AML cell lines when compared with activated NK cells lacking an FLT3 CAR or soluble IL-15. Frozen and thawed allogeneic FLT3 CAR_sIL-15 NK cells prolonged survival of both the MOLM-13 AML model as well as an orthotopic patient-derived xenograft AML model when compared with control NK cells. FLT3 CAR_sIL-15 NK cells showed no cytotoxicity against healthy blood mononuclear cells or hematopoietic stem cells. Collectively, our data suggest that FLT3 is an AML-associated antigen that can be targeted by frozen, allogeneic, off-the-shelf FLT3 CAR_sIL-15 NK cells that may provide a novel approach for the treatment of AML.
Association between busulfan exposure and survival in patients undergoing a CD34+ selected stem cell transplantation
Authors: Tamari Roni , Scordo Michael , Kunvarjee Binni M. , Proli Anthony , Lin Andrew , Flynn Jessica , Cho Christina , Devlin Sean , Klein Elizabeth , Boulad Farid , Cancio Maria I. , Curran Kevin J. , Jakubowski Ann A. , Kernan Nancy A. , Kung Andrew L. , O’Reilly Richard J. , Papadopoulos Esperanza B. , Prockop Susan , Scaradavou Andromachi , Shaffer Brian C. , Shah Gunjan , Spitzer Barbara , Gyurkocza Boglarka , Giralt Sergio A. , Perales Miguel-Angel , Boelens Jaap Jan
Published: June 2023

Busulfan is an alkylating drug routinely used in conditioning regimens for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). A myeloablative conditioning regimen, including busulfan, is commonly used in patients undergoing T-cell depletion (TCD) and allo-HCT, but data on optimal busulfan pharmacokinetic (PK) exposure in this setting are limited. Between 2012 and 2019, busulfan PK was performed to target an area under the curve exposure between 55 and 66 mg × h/L over 3 days using a noncompartmental analysis model. We retrospectively re-estimated busulfan exposure following the published population PK (popPK) model (2021) and correlated it with outcomes. To define optimal exposure, univariable models were performed with P splines, wherein hazard ratio (HR) plots were drawn, and thresholds were found graphically as the points at which the confidence interval crossed 1. Cox proportional hazard and competing risk models were used for analyses. 176 patients were included, with a median age of 59 years (range, 2-71). Using the popPK model, the median cumulative busulfan exposure was 63.4 mg × h/L (range, 46.3-90.7). The optimal threshold was at the upper limit of the lowest quartile (59.5 mg × h/L). 5-year overall survival (OS) with busulfan exposure ≥59.5 vs <59.5 mg × h/L was 67% (95% CI, 59-76) vs 40% (95% CI, 53-68), respectively (P = .02), and this association remained in a multivariate analyses (HR, 0.5; 95% CI, 0.29; 0.88; P = .02). In patients undergoing TCD allo-HCT, busulfan exposure is significantly associated with OS. The use of a published popPK model to optimize exposure may significantly improve the OS.