bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agonising over industrial relations: Bringing agonism and dissensus to the pluralist frames of reference
Authors: Van Buren Harry J , Greenwood Michelle , Donaghey Jimmy , Reinecke Juliane
Published: October 2020

The construct of pluralism has allowed us to see a world where parties could pursue divergent interests, sometimes to the point of conflict, and still work together to realise goals. In response to changing models of employment that are threatening many of the values and interests core to workers and society, new readings of pluralism have emerged that we will argue oscillate between antagonism and consensus. In response, we proffer the concepts of agonism and dissensus as bridging different schools of pluralist thought. Our article commences with a review of affordances and limitations of new pluralism. We then introduce the political philosophy of Chantal Mouffe – in particular her conceptualisations of agonism and dissensus – and discuss how these have been employed in consideration of the employment relationship. Next we describe a case salient to our argument, the ready-made garment industry’s stakeholder engagement responses to the Rana Plaza tragedy in Bangladesh, into which we bring an understanding of agonism with the possibilities of dissensual engagement. We conclude with our contribution, the development of a nuanced view of pluralism based on dissensus and agonism, which better accounts for the co-existence of cooperation and conflict.
Unexpected death due to a biventricular thrombosis: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Barranco Rosario , Caputo Fiorella , Gaggero Gabriele , Ventura Francesco
Published: October 2020

Cardiac thrombosis is an unusual condition characterised by the formation of a clot in the heart chambers. Biventricular thrombosis with obstruction of blood flow and fatal cardiogenic shock is anecdotal. This report describes a rare biventricular thrombosis in an elderly woman without known risk factors which was diagnosed at autopsy. A complete autopsy is essential to ascertain the cause of death, especially in complex cases with little medical history. We suggest a possible explanation for the pathophysiological mechanism.
Pacifism, Coercion, and Progress
Authors: Huang Luping
Published: October 2020

As one of the most influential and controversial Christian leaders in contemporary China, Y. T. Wu was deeply indebted to Reinhold Niebuhr. This article focuses on Wu’s application of Niebuhr’s thoughts and compares the two thinkers. It notes their similarities and differences on issues including pacifism, human nature, and social transformation. The article analyzes the many outcomes that occurred from the collision of their ideas. Such efforts aim to get a grip on the undertones of Wu’s thinking and expand the understanding of contextualization of Niebuhr’s theology in China.
The Mallah and Ram Charana in the United Provinces
Authors: Duncan Ian
Published: October 2020

During the 1920s and 1930s, Ram Charana, of the Mallah caste and a resident of Lucknow, led the campaign for his caste to secure a place in the plans for constitutional and electoral reform being drawn up by the colonial authorities. His objective was to ensure the inclusion of the caste within the administrative category of the Depressed Classes and subsequently as a Scheduled Caste even though it was labelled and stigmatised as a caste defined primarily by its criminality. Ram Charana was appointed to the United Provinces Legislative Council as the sole nominee to represent the Depressed Class population, and he participated in all of the investigations of the time into constitutional reform. Although he personally achieved a leading role in the reform proceedings, he was unable to secure any recognition for the Mallah.

This article examines the criminalisation of the Mallah particularly in the light of police sources not consulted previously. It describes Ram Charana’s role and analyses the reasons for his failure, despite his personal prominence and official promotion, to gain a more advantageous position for the Mallah.
Premchand’s shifting portrayals of womanhood in colonial North India: Between conformity and resistance
Authors: Singh Shailendra Kumar
Published: October 2020

This article examines the nuanced and open-ended representations of women in the fictional works of Premchand, one of the most versatile and popular Urdu-Hindi writers of the 1920s and 1930s. By looking into a wide range of his writings, it argues that Premchand’s literary engagement with the women’s question cannot be summarily understood through such binaries as ‘conservative’ or ‘liberal/radical’. While the virtuous and compliant woman is valorised as an ideal within the domestic sphere in certain stories, Premchand’s narratives in the nationalist mode foreground an alternative set of ideals for the urban, educated and middle-class Hindu woman. Far from being formulaic, Premchand’s portrayals of womanhood seem to be shifting, tentative and thematically contingent.
Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 in the Cerumen of COVID-19-Positive Patients
Authors: Islamoglu Yuce , Bercin Sami , Aydogan Sibel , Sener Alp , Tanriverdi Fatih , Gunaydin Gul Pamukcu , Dinc Bedia
Published: October 2020

Objective:

To evaluate the presence of SARS-CoV-2 virus in the cerumen of patients with COVID-19.

Methods:

A prospective study was conducted in a tertiary care pandemic hospital. Sixty COVID-19 patients with cerumen in their external auditory canals were included in the study. Swabs were taken from the external auditory canal of the patients by an experienced otolaryngologist with the test swab. Sampling was done by rotating the sample swab 360° 10 times in each external auditory canal for a total of 20 times. After collection, swabs were placed into 2 mL of the sterile viral transport medium (various manufacturers), then transported and tested as soon as possible after collection.

Results:

SARS-CoV-2 was not detected in the cerumen polymerase chain reaction (PCR) samples of any of the 60 patients with positive nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal swabs.

Conclusion:

Cerumen cleaning is one of the most common procedures performed by otolaryngologists, and care should be taken during the procedure or due to the possibility of infection from the resulting contaminants. The cerumen contains the secretions of the glands in the external auditory canal and may contain certain pathogens that are actively found in the body. The presence of hepatitis B virus in the cerumen was examined and isolated in the cerumen. In our study, the presence of SARS-CoV-2 virus in the cerumen was evaluated in SARS-CoV-2 PCR-positive patients. SARS-CoV-2 virus was not detected in the cerumen samples of any of the patients.
COVID-19, the Church, and the Challenge to Ecumenism
Authors: Plüss Jean-Daniel
Published: October 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic raises questions how churches respond to an extraordinary situation where not only health and economic issues are at stake, but also the understanding of what church is all about and how ecclesial life is practised. Furthermore, do the current experiences have any bearing about the way churches of different traditions relate to each other? This article introduces the issues raised by first reviewing how Christians in past centuries have faced pandemics. Second, the text will look at current responses by large church bodies and organizations. Thirdly, a small survey will focus on the responses by local churches across the globe as to the benefits and challenges associated with the present coronavirus crisis. Finally, the paper addresses what the various reactions tell us about a reassessment of the nature of the church, both in the local context and with regard to the wider Body of Christ.
Adult attachment, sacrifice, and emotional wellbeing of couples: A cross-cultural comparison between the U.S. and China
Authors: Zhu Wenzhen , Wang Chiachih D.C. , Jin Ling , Lu Ting
Published: October 2020

This study examined the effects of romantic partners’ adult attachment on sacrifice in relationships and each partner’s corresponding emotional reactions using the strain-test situation protocol. Because the general values and expectations related to romantic relationship embedded in cultural norms might be different, this study also investigated potential cultural differences in this phenomenon, using a cross-cultural sample (115 dating couples in U.S. and 99 dating couples in China). Results showed a similar pattern across the groups that individuals tend to make less sacrifice when they or their partner were avoidantly attached; however, the actor effect of attachment anxiety on sacrifice only occurred in the US sample. In addition, the positive impact of sacrifice on both the individual’s and recipient’s emotional wellbeing was observed across cultures, although this impact seemed to be stronger in the Chinese sample. When asked to sacrifice, American participants with high attachment avoidance reported less negative affect whereas it was the anxiously attached Chinese participants who experienced less negative emotion. Findings of this study confirm the significant impact of adult attachment on sacrifice and corresponding emotional reactions, and also highlight the possible cross-cultural differences in the magnitude of these effects.
Tools to help healthcare professionals recognize palliative care needs in patients with advanced heart failure: A systematic review
Authors: Ament Stephanie MC , Couwenberg Inge ME , Boyne Josiane JJ , Kleijnen Jos , Stoffers Henri EJH , van den Beuken Marieke HJ , Engels Yvonne , Bellersen Louise , Janssen Daisy JA
Published: October 2020

Background:

The delivery of palliative care interventions is not widely integrated in chronic heart failure care as the recognition of palliative care needs is perceived as difficult. Tools may facilitate healthcare professionals to identify patients with palliative care needs in advanced chronic heart failure.

Aim:

To identify tools to help healthcare professionals recognize palliative care needs in patients with advanced chronic heart failure.

Design:

This systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42019131896). Evidence of tools’ development, evaluation, feasibility, and implementation was sought and described.

Data sources:

Electronic searches to identify references of tools published until June 2019 were conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and EMBASE. Hand-searching of references and citations was undertaken. Based on the identified tools, a second electronic search until September 2019 was performed to check whether all evidence about these tools in the context of chronic heart failure was included.

Results:

Nineteen studies described a total of seven tools. The tools varied in purpose, intended user and properties. The tools have been validated to a limited extent in the context of chronic heart failure and palliative care. Different health care professionals applied the tools in various settings at different moments of the care process. Guidance and instruction about how to apply the tool revealed to be relevant but may be not enough for uptake. Spiritual care needs were perceived as difficult to assess.

Conclusion:

Seven tools were identified which showed different and limited levels of validity in the context of palliative care and chronic heart failure.
What Helps and Hinders Students’ Intervening in Incidents of Dating Violence On Campus? an Exploratory Study Using Focus Groups
Authors: Cusano Julia , Wood Leila , O’Connor Julia , McMahon Sarah
Published: October 2020

Dating violence is a problem occurring on college campuses that requires unique prevention and intervention needs. Despite the widespread prevalence and pervasive impact of dating violence victimization, formal disclosure and utilization of on-campus support services for student survivors remain low and often survivors who do tell someone disclose to an informal source of support, most often a friend. Many current educational efforts on college campuses regarding dating violence, including bystander intervention programming, fail to increase students’ understanding of how to safely address a situation where a peer is experiencing an abusive relationship or to provide students with information about their role as potential responders to disclosures of violence from friends. In the present exploratory study, a series of qualitative focus groups were conducted to better understand students’ perspectives on dating violence on campus. Data were analyzed according to processes of thematic analysis to examine how students’ understanding and knowledge of dating violence impact their decision about whether to intervene as prosocial bystanders within their social networks using focus groups. Emergent findings reveal that students undergo a multistage process of intervening that relies heavily on their existing knowledge and attitudes toward dating violence. The findings from this article are consistent with Banyard’s Action Coils model. Suggestions for future research are also discussed.
Unintended Short- and Longer-Term Consequences of Assignment to College Readiness Courses: Evidence from Florida
Authors: Leeds Daniel M. , Mokher Christine G.
Published: October 2020

High school course selection can affect student outcomes in high school, college, and beyond. Policymakers therefore must consider whether policies affecting course selection may have unintended consequences for students with different levels of preparation. We use regression discontinuity analysis to examine the impact of Florida’s College and Career Readiness Initiative on high school coursetaking and subsequent success in college-level courses. To determine which students were most likely to comply with and benefit from the FCCRI, we run subgroup analyses based on students’ course-taking histories, finding that the initiative was beneficial for some students but may have had inadvertently harmed others.
Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis Caused by Curvularia in a Patient With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Case Report
Authors: Marinucci Victoria , Chahine Elias B. , Bush Larry M.
Published: October 2020

Invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (IFRS) is a serious illness requiring early diagnosis, surgical debridement, and administration of antifungals. We report a case of an acute IFRS caused by Curvularia in a patient with diabetes mellitus. An 18-year-old female presented to the emergency department with an acute onset of fever, headache, facial discomfort, and a blood glucose reading of 500 mg/dL. The patient was admitted for the management of hyperosmolar hyperglycemia. Her past medical history includes uncontrolled type 1 diabetes mellitus and a recent toothache. A computed tomography scan of the facial maxillary region revealed sinus disease with bony erosion. Empiric therapy with liposomal amphotericin B 400 mg i.v. every 24 hours, piperacillin/tazobactam 4.5 g i.v. every 6 hours and vancomycin 1 g i.v. every 12 hours was started. A functional endoscopic sinus surgery revealed invasive rhinosinusitis and cultures were positive for fungal elements. The patient was discharged on liposomal amphotericin B 400 mg i.v. daily and cefuroxime 500 mg orally twice daily. However, she was readmitted for the management of acute kidney injury and was discharged on itraconazole capsules 200 mg orally twice daily. Sinus cultures grew Curvularia and itraconazole was prescribed for 6 weeks, but the patient discontinued treatment after 3 weeks and had no signs or symptoms of rhinosinusitis when she was last seen in the clinic. The possibility of IFRS should be explored in patients with diabetes and signs and symptoms of rhinosinusitis.
Discourses of poverty across genres: Competing representations of the poor in the transitional context of Serbia
Authors: Kleut Jelena , Drašković Brankica
Published: October 2020

This article examines representations of the poor across three genres – the government’s Bulletin on Social Inclusion and Poverty Reduction, online news and online user comments – during the period that immediately followed the expiration of the first Serbian Poverty Reduction Strategy (2010–2012). The results show differences in the actors’ representation, and in attribution of causal and treatment responsibility. The Bulletin is characterised by the discourse of social inclusion, activation and responsibilisation of the poor. This discourse does not reach the news, which portrays the poor as passive beneficiaries of the government actions, as individuals in extreme poverty, and as the agentic working poor protesting for wages. In the online user comments, poverty is articulated as the personal experience of the commenters. The news discourse of state responsibility is echoed in the comments sections and further recontextualised into the discourse of political responsibility.
Using Day and Night – Scheduling Retrieval Practice and Sleep
Authors: Kroneisen Meike , Kuepper-Tetzel Carolina E.
Published: October 2020

Sleep right after studying new material is more conducive to memory than a period of wakefulness. Another way to counteract forgetting is to practice retrieval: taking a test strengthens memory more effectively than restudying the material. The current work aims at investigating the interaction between sleep and testing by asking if testing adds to, neutralizes, or decreases the effect of sleep on memory? We tested this in one pilot and one experiment by manipulating the timing of the practice test as well as whether practice was followed by sleep or wakefulness when learning foreign language vocabulary. Taking a delayed practice test significantly reduces forgetting for both the sleep and the wakefulness group. An immediate practice test, in contrast, had no such effect; here we find the standard beneficial sleep effect. However, the immediate practice test leads to higher recall in the final test in comparison to a delayed practice test, but only for the sleep group. Practical recommendations imply two things: first, if students study in the evening, they should test themselves immediately after learning. Second, if students study during the day the practice test should be delayed in order to reinforce memory and reduce forgetting of the material.
Endovascular Repair of Symptomatic Right Subclavian and Innominate Artery Aneurysms Arising From a “Bovine Arch” in a Patient With a “Hostile” Chest
Authors: Mukherjee Dipankar , Lewis Elizabeth , Ryan Liam
Published: October 2020

Symptomatic aneurysms of the innominate and subclavian arteries are rare and pose unique challenges for endovascular repair particularly in a patient with a “bovine” arch. Previous publications have described back table modifications of standard iliac endografts to conform to the innominate artery for exclusion of the lesion. Others have proposed extra-anatomic bypass or carotid-subclavian transposition with occlusion of the innominate artery. We were unable to find a report of repair when aneurysms of the innominate and subclavian arteries were in continuity. We present such a case of endovascular repair using commercially available endografts without compromise of the left common carotid artery origin as this patient had a “bovine” arch. Surgeons will benefit from adding this endovascular option to their “tool box” when confronted with such a challenging clinical scenario.
Use of the ORBEYETM Exoscope in General Surgery: The Advent of Video-Assisted Open Surgery
Authors: Corcione Francesco , Silvestri Vania , Merola Giovanni , Dambra Michele , Lionetti Ruggero , Pirozzi Nello , Peltrini Roberto , Pontecorvi Emanuele , Bracale Umberto
Published: October 2020

Background. Microsurgery has quickly become the “gold standard” approach for vascular surgical steps during neurosurgery. However, despite its advantages, the microscope has not been widely adopted in general surgery. A new 3D‐surgical exoscope, the ORBEYETM, has been developed and introduced to some surgical specialties. Herein, we present our preliminary experience with the ORBEYETM exoscope as applied to a number of general surgical procedures. Method. Throughout February 2020, 7 patients had undergone varying surgical procedures at our institute utilizing the ORBEYETM in some of specific procedural steps where the surgeons felt that the surgery would benefit from more enhanced magnification. Upon completion, all the surgeons who had taken part in the procedure were asked if they had experienced any nausea, dizziness, or eyestrain during its use. Results. The ORBEYETM was employed in a number of surgical steps for the following procedures: throughout an inguinal hernia repair, during a duodeno-cephalo-pancreatectomy, for a subtotal gastrectomy, during para-aortic mass dissection, and during Ivor Lewis procedure. None of the surgeons involved in the procedures reported experiencing any nausea, dizziness nor eyestrain, nor any other physical discomforts. Conclusion. To the best of our knowledge, ours is the very first report on the employment of the ORBEYE exoscope during general surgery. Our experience assures us that this highly ergonomic technology with its high-resolution 4K 3D optical system allows the surgeon to perform safe and precise surgery in several dedicated steps in which adequate magnification is required with no adverse effects to the surgeon or the surgical procedure itself.
Health Literacy in Male-Dominated Occupations
Authors: Milner Allison , Shields Marissa , Scovelle Anna J. , Sutherland Georgina , King Tania L.
Published: October 2020

Low levels of health literacy are associated with poorer health outcomes. Both individual- and social-level factors have been identified as predictors of low health literacy, and men are known to have lower health literacy than women. Previous research has reported that men working in male-dominated occupations are at higher risk of accidents, injury, and suicide than other population groups, yet no study to date has examined the effect of gendered occupational contexts on men’s health literacy. The current article examined the association between occupational gender ratio and health literacy among Australian males. The Australian Longitudinal Study on Male Health (Ten to Men) was used to examine associations between occupational gender ratio (measured in Wave 1) and health literacy (measured in Wave 2) across three subscales of the Health Literacy Questionnaire. Multivariable linear regression analyses were used and showed that the more male dominated an occupational group became, the lower the scores of health literacy were. Results for the different subscales of health literacy for the most male-dominated occupational group, compared to the non-male-dominated group were: ability to find good health information, (Coef. −0.80, 95% CI [−1.05, −0.54], p < .001); ability to actively engage with health-care providers, (Coef. −0.35, 95% CI [−0.62, −0.07], p = .013); and feeling understood and supported by health-care providers, (Coef. −0.48, 95% CI [−0.71, −0.26], p = < .001). The results suggest the need for workplace interventions to address occupation-level factors as an influence on health literacy among Australian men, particularly among the most male-dominated occupational groups.
“You Think Differently After Playing This Sport”: Experiences of Collegiate Goalball Players
Authors: MacDonald Cathy , Bryan Rebecca , Lieberman Lauren J. , Foley John T.
Published: October 2020

The inclusion of athletes with and without disabilities in disability sport, known as reverse integration, has received limited attention in the literature. The purpose of this study was to understand players’ experiences in collegiate goalball. One-on-one semistructured interviews were conducted with two males (one with visual impairment, one without impairment) and four females (one with visual impairment, three without impairment) who participated in collegiate goalball programs. Interpretative thematic analysis helped uncover the meaning in participants’ goalball experiences. Reverse integration was used as a conceptual framework to guide the interpretation of participant experiences. Four main themes were extracted from the data: (a) the disability advantage, (b) the building of team cohesion, (c) the disappearing disability, and (d) enjoyment and pride. Participation in collegiate goalball allowed students to see disability as an asset and question assumptions regarding teammates’ abilities. This study highlights the potential value of providing opportunities for people with and without a disability to participate in sport together.
Breaking the breach in Latin America. A pilot study of mechanical thrombectomy in the public healthcare system in Chile
Authors: Lemme Plaghos Luis A
Published: October 2020

Brief commentary about implications of the Pilot Study of Mechanical Thrombectomy in the Public Healthcare System of Chile.
The prevalence and management of diabetes among Vietnamese Americans: A population-based survey of an understudied ethnic group
Authors: De Souza Leanne R , Chan Keith T , Kobayashi Karen , Karasiuk Alexis , Fuller-Thomson Esme
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Although obesity remains relatively rare among Vietnamese Americans, the prevalence of diabetes has increased in this population. This study aims to:  1. Estimate the prevalence of diabetes among non-obese Vietnamese American adults compared to non-obese non-Hispanic whites (NHW).  2. Identify factors associated with diabetes among non-obese Vietnamese Americans.  3. Examine whether Vietnamese Americans and NHW with diabetes are equally as likely to receive optimal frequency of diabetes care (i.e., hemoglobin A1C monitoring, foot care, eye care).

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of non-obese adult Vietnamese Americans using pooled data from the 2007, 2009, 2011 and 2013–2016 waves of the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS).

Results

Only 9% of Vietnamese Americans with diabetes are obese. Non-obese Vietnamese Americans have 60% higher adjusted odds of diabetes compared to non-obese NHW. Among non-obese Vietnamese Americans, those who were older, ever smokers and born outside US had a higher prevalence of diabetes. We found both Vietnamese Americans and NHW with diabetes received similar levels of care.

Discussion

Non-obese Vietnamese Americans have much higher odds of diabetes than NHW. Health professionals can effectively minimize disparities between Vietnamese Americans and NHW with diabetes through appropriate monitoring of foot care, eye care and A1C levels.
An Evidence-Based Framework for Implementation of a School–Community Partnership
Authors: McCabe Ellen M. , Kaskoun Jeannine R. , Murphy Eleanor L. , Polkinghorn Madeline , Elkind Jaclynn A.
Published: October 2020

School–community partnerships (SCPs) are collaborative efforts between schools and community organizations geared toward improving the health of school-age children through care coordination. These partnerships are ideal for youth with acute and chronic illness because they can implement evidence-based interventions and offer skills and education to support youth self-management and academic success. Utilizing the chronic condition of asthma as an exemplar, this article highlights several successful SCPs and how they are mutually beneficial to both the school and community. Additionally, this article offers strategies for stakeholders, including school nurses, to establish an SCP. SCPs lay the foundation for supporting community- and school-based health and lend themselves to a healthier future for youth.
Changes in substance use among young adults during a respiratory disease pandemic
Authors: Sharma Pravesh , Ebbert Jon O , Rosedahl Jordan K , Philpot Lindsey M
Published: October 2020

Background:

News articles, commentaries, and opinion articles have suggested that ongoing social distancing measures coupled with economic challenges during COVID-19 may worsen stress, affective state, and substance use across the globe. We sought to advance our understanding of the differences between individuals who change their substance use patterns during a public health crisis and those who do not.

Methods:

Cross-sectional survey of young adults (18–25 years of age) assessing respondent characteristics and vaping, tobacco, alcohol, and/or marijuana use. We calculated prevalence estimates, prevalence changes, and prevalence ratios with associated 95% confidence intervals and looked for differences with the chi-square test.

Results:

Of the total sample, 53.2% ( n = 542/1018) young adults reported vaping or using tobacco, alcohol, and/or marijuana. Among the 542 respondents reporting use, 34.3% reported a change in their use patterns. Among respondents reporting changes in substance use patterns during the pandemic ( n = 186), 68.8% reported an increase in alcohol use, 44.0% reported a decrease in vaping product use, and 47.3% reported a decrease in tobacco product use due to COVID-19. Substance use changed significantly for respondents with increasing degree of loneliness (continuous loneliness score: prevalence ratio = 1.12, 95% confidence interval = 1.01–1.25), anxiety (prevalence ratio = 1.45, 95% confidence interval = 1.14–1.85), and depression (prevalence ratio = 1.44, 95% confidence interval = 1.13–1.82).

Conclusion:

Self-reported substance use among young adults was observed to change during a pandemic, and the degree of loneliness appears to impact these changes. Innovative strategies are needed to address loneliness, anxiety, depression, and substance use during global health crises that impact social contact.
Have We Just Scratched the Surface? A Narrative Review of Uremic Pruritus in 2020
Authors: Martin Claire E. , Clotet-Freixas Sergi , Farragher Janine F. , Hundemer Gregory L.
Published: October 2020

Purpose of review:

Uremic pruritus is a highly prevalent and debilitating symptom in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). The purpose of this review is to examine current evidence on the mechanisms and treatments of pruritus in CKD and highlight promising areas for future research.

Sources of information:

Published literature, including randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case reports, and review articles, was searched for evidence pertaining to the pathophysiology and treatment of uremic pruritus.

Methods:

A comprehensive narrative review was conducted to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying uremic pruritus, as well as the evidence (or lack thereof) supporting pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments for uremic pruritus. The potential role of patient sex in the pathophysiology and management of uremic pruritus is also discussed.

Key findings:

The pathophysiology of uremic pruritus involves a complex interplay of uremic toxins, systemic inflammation, mast cell activation, and imbalance of opioid receptors. Classic treatment strategies for uremic pruritus include optimization of dialysis parameters, amelioration of CKD-related mineral and bone disease, topical emollients and analgesics, antihistamines, the anticonvulsant medications gabapentin and pregabalin, and ultraviolet light B (UV-B) phototherapy. Strong data to support many of these classical treatments for uremic pruritus are limited. Newly evolving treatment approaches for uremic pruritus include opioid receptor modulators, neurokinin-1 inhibitors, and cannabinoids. Further studies regarding their efficacy, pharmacodynamics, and safety in the CKD and ESKD population are needed before these agents are accepted into widespread use. Additional nonpharmacological strategies aimed at treating uremic pruritus include psychotherapy, acupuncture, omega-3 fatty acids, and exercise. Finally, sex differences may exist regarding uremic pruritus, but studies directly addressing sex-specific mechanisms of uremic pruritus remain absent.

Limitations:

High-quality evidence in the management of uremic pruritus remains lacking. Most recommendations are based on expert opinion or studies involving small numbers of patients. In addition, our understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms behind uremic pruritus is incomplete and continues to evolve over time.

Implications:

Uremic pruritus is a common symptom which reduces quality of life in CKD and ESKD. The identification of novel targeted treatment approaches may ease the burden of uremic pruritus in the future.
Long-term follow-up of a cat with an undetermined osteoporotic bone disease managed with multiple intramedullary pins
Authors: Kim Dongwook , Oh Hyejong , Na Ki-Jeong , Chang Dongwoo , Kim Gonhyung
Published: October 2020

Case summary

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is an inherited disorder related to the synthesis of type 1 collagen. Clinical signs of pain from the fracture of fragile bones are common. A 3-month-old male Chinchilla cat was presented for lameness and pain from a right femoral fracture. After surgical repair using intramedullary pins, and since repeated fractures occurred and there is little information about genes causing OI in cats, various examinations were performed to discriminate other diseases that could cause the pathological fracture. Primary hyperparathyroidism and nutritional or renal secondary hyperparathyroidism were ruled out through blood tests and ultrasonography. Quantitative CT confirmed low trabecular bone mineral density compared with normal cats. Radiography and histopathological examination revealed thin cortical bone. OI was tentatively diagnosed and long-term follow-up of the surgical repair was reviewed. Fractures were treated using intramedullary Kirschner wires. The same method of intramedullary pinning was then applied preventively to protect several other long bones by improving stress distribution and bending resistance. Follow-up was performed for 3 years until the patient’s death due to undetermined reasons.

Relevance and novel information

Although the patient underwent repeated fractures and bone unions, and needed medication for pain management sometimes, it was generally able to live as a companion cat. Therefore, palliative preventive intramedullary pinning could be used for long-term management of patients suspected of OI.
Development of Simple Devices for Control of Temperature above and below Ambient on Simple Pipetting Stations
Authors: Mifflin Theodore E. , Felder Robin A.
Published: October 2020

Robotic pipetting stations are becoming increasingly popular to perform a variety of different laboratory analyses, including use of biochemical, chemical, and molecular biology reactions. As molecular diagnostic (MDx) analyses are adapted to pipetting stations, their need for additional resources on the pipetting stations such as heating and cooling will also grow.

We designed and constructed small (< 150 cm2) accessories for use on a popular pipetting station. Both have small footprints and were built using readily available components. The microplate heater could achieve set point temperature within 10 minutes of activation and exhibited minimal temperature variation. The cooler was designed to be a passively cooled resource that could contain up to 15 Eppendorf tubes and maintain the temperature at least 20 degrees below ambient for at least two hours. Both units have been used to automate a coupled series of molecular biology reactions that yield RNA aptamers.

We believe these two devices can be widely utilized with minor modifications of any pipetting station that requires heating or cooling capabilities on the pipetting station's deck.
MipTec Proceedings: Transcriptional Assay Screens Using Renilla Luciferase as an Internal Control
Authors: Hannah Rita R. , Jennens-Clough Martha L. , Wood Keith V.
Published: October 2020

In cell biology research and pharmaceutical discovery, physiological responses of mammalian cells are commonly screened using transcriptional assays. Although firefly luciferase is widely used because of its rapid and simple assay, greater precision can be achieved using a second reporter as an internal control. Renilla luciferase serves as an efficient internal control because it can be measured as easily and rapidly using the same instrument. The Dual-Luciferase™ Reporter (DLR™) Assay developed at Promega measures both reporters sequentially within each sample, which eliminates the need to separate the test sample into aliquots for each assay. The expression of each reporter is independently quantitated using selective assay conditions based on their distinctive chemical characteristics. The firefly luciferase is initiated first by the addition of LAR II to the sample or cell lysate. Following measurement of the luminescent output, the firefly reaction is rapidly quenched and the Renilla reaction is simultaneously activated by addition of Stop & Glo™ Reagent, and the luminescence is measured a second time. The DLR™ Assay allows quantitation of both reporters within 4 seconds per well using a 96-well luminometer equipped with two reagent injectors. Multi-well plates may be processed even more rapidly using a CCD-based imaging system.
Massive Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding Following LAMS (Lumen-Apposing Metal Stent) Placement
Authors: Gajjar Bhavesh , Aasen Tyler , Goenka Puneet , Gayam Vijay
Published: October 2020

Pancreatic pseudocyst is a common complication of pancreatitis. Pseudocysts may require decompression when they become painful, infected, or start compressing surrounding organs. Decompression is achieved by endoscopic cystogastrostomy. Recently, the use of lumen-apposing metal stent (LAMS) for cystogastrostomy has gained popularity due to ease of use and high technical success. LAMS has a wider lumen, which allows for direct endoscopic necrosectomy in the cases of walled-off necrosis. Our patient is a 30-year-old male who presented with massive hematemesis and dizziness. He had a history of chronic alcohol-induced pancreatitis. Three weeks before the presentation, he underwent a cystogastrostomy with LAMS placement to treat a 10-cm walled-off necrosis. Urgent computed tomography (CT) scan did not reveal any acute finding suggestive of bleeding. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed blood protruding from the LAMS with a large clot formation. Attempts to stop bleeding were unsuccessful. He underwent CT angiography of the abdomen. CT angiography showed a bleeding pseudoaneurysm (PA) believed to be a complication of the LAMS. Subsequently, multiple coils were placed in the splenic artery near the PA. The patient continued to improve without a further drop in hemoglobin and was eventually discharged. PA formation and subsequent rupture is a rare delayed complication of LAMS. It may lead to massive gastrointestinal bleeding with a high mortality rate. Diagnostic delays have resulted in increased mortality by 60%. In this article, we present a case of massive gastrointestinal bleeding due to a ruptured splenic artery PA presenting as a delayed complication of LAMS.
Enhancing Success of Medicare’s Shared Decision Making Mandates Using Implementation Science: Examples Applying the Pragmatic Robust Implementation and Sustainability Model (PRISM)
Authors: Matlock Daniel D. , Fukunaga Mayuko Ito , Tan Andy , Knoepke Chris , McNeal Demetria M. , Mazor Kathleen M. , Glasgow Russell E.
Published: October 2020

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has mandated shared decision making (SDM) using patient decision aids for three conditions (lung cancer screening, atrial fibrillation, and implantable defibrillators). These forward-thinking approaches are in response to a wealth of efficacy data demonstrating that decision aids can improve patient decision making. However, there has been little focus on how to implement these approaches in real-world practice. This article demonstrates how using an implementation science framework may help programs understand multilevel challenges and opportunities to improve adherence to the CMS mandates. Using the PRISM (Pragmatic Robust Implementation and Sustainability Model) framework, we discuss general challenges to implementation of SDM, issues specific to each mandate, and how to plan for, enhance, and assess SDM implementation outcomes. Notably, a theme of this discussion is that successful implementation is context-specific and to truly have successful and sustainable changes in practice, context variability, and adaptation to context must be considered and addressed.
Analysis of the lubrication approximation theory in the calendering/sheeting process of upper convected Jeffery’s material
Authors: Zahid M , Khan NZ , Siddiqui AM , Iqbal S , Muhammad A , Tlili Iskander
Published: October 2020

This paper analyses an isothermal calendering for an upper convected Jeffery’s Material. Lubrication Approximation Theory (LAT) is applied to simplify the flow equations. Analytical solutions of velocity, flow rate, and pressure gradient are carried out. Outcomes of sheet thickness, detachment point, roll separating force, power input to the roll, and pressure distribution are obtained. The effects of some involved parameters are displayed through graphs and tables. It is noted that the material parameter is a controlling device for sheet thickness, flow rate, detachment point, roll separating force, power input, and the pressure distribution. We observed that as the material parameter increases, the detachment point increases which results in increased sheet thickness.
The effect of exercise-based interventions on health-related quality of life and physical function in older patients with cancer receiving medical antineoplastic treatments: a systematic review
Authors: Mikkelsen Marta Kramer , Juhl Carsten Bogh , Lund Cecilia Margareta , Jarden Mary , Vinther Anders , Nielsen Dorte Lisbet
Published: October 2020

Older patients with cancer are underrepresented in trials investigating the effect of exercise therapy. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the effect of exercise therapy during medical antineoplastic treatment in older patients (≥ 65 years) with cancer. A systematic review following the Cochrane guidelines was performed. Randomized controlled trials were identified through a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and CINAHL up to December 2019. Study selection was performed independently by two reviewers. Four randomized controlled trials published between 2014 and 2019 were included comprising a total of 412 participants. Most participants were diagnosed with breast, prostate or colorectal cancer. The studies were characterized by large differences in design, interventions and outcomes, which prevented meta-analyses. The interventions ranged from 4 weeks to 12 months and involved both supervised and unsupervised exercise programs. Some evidence of beneficial effects from the interventions were documented on physical function, muscle strength, physical activity and cognitive function. No evidence of effects was found for health-related quality of life, aerobic capacity, body composition, cancer-related symptoms and side effects, or for any clinical outcomes. No adverse events were reported. Exercise therapy seems to be safe and feasible in older patients with cancer. However, due to a limited number of studies, small sample sizes and heterogeneity across study design, the effects of exercise in older patients with cancer receiving medical antineoplastic treatment are inconclusive.
Early changes in tear film protein profiles after femtosecond LASIK surgery
Authors: Nättinen Janika , Mäkinen Petri , Aapola Ulla , Orsila Lasse , Pietilä Juhani , Uusitalo Hannu
Published: October 2020

Background

Femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) has proven to be an efficacious, predictable, and safe procedure for the correction of refractive errors. We examined the early tear protein changes of patients undergoing LASIK surgery in order to better understand the mechanisms and proteins related to laser corneal surgery and initial recovery.

Methods

Corneal flaps were created with Ziemer FEMTO LDV Z6 I femtosecond laser and stroma was ablated using Wavelight EX500 excimer laser. Tear samples were collected preoperatively as well as 1.5 h and 1 month after LASIK treatment using glass microcapillary tubes. Relative quantification of tear proteins was performed with sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion spectra mass spectrometry (SWATH-MS).

Results

SWATH-MS revealed that 158 proteins had altered expression levels 1.5 h after the operation. Two-thirds of these proteins, mostly connected to migration and inflammation response, returned to preoperative levels within the first postoperative month. The other proteins, which did not return to baseline levels, included proteins connected to for example epithelial barrier function. We also identified several proteins, which correlated with surgical variables, such as the amount of correction, flap thickness and flap diameter.

Conclusions

The present study showed that an uneventful femtosecond LASIK refractive surgery induced a significant immune cell migration and inflammation-associated changes in tear proteomics profile quickly after the operation, but the expression of most proteins recovered almost completely to the preoperative levels within the first month. The individual proteins identified in our study are potential targets for the follow-up and modification of LASIK-induced biochemical processes.
Frequent birth-and-death events throughout perforin-1 evolution
Authors: Araujo-Voces Miguel , Quesada Víctor
Published: October 2020

Background

Through its ability to open pores in cell membranes, perforin-1 plays a key role in the immune system. Consistent with this role, the gene encoding perforin shows hallmarks of complex evolutionary events, including amplification and pseudogenization, in multiple species. A large proportion of these events occurred in phyla for which scarce genomic data were available. However, recent large-scale genomics projects have added a wealth of information on those phyla. Using this input, we annotated perforin-1 homologs in more than eighty species including mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians and fishes.

Results

We have annotated more than 400 perforin genes in all groups studied. Most mammalian species only have one perforin locus, which may contain a related pseudogene. However, we found four independent small expansions in unrelated members of this class. We could reconstruct the full-length coding sequences of only a few avian perforin genes, although we found incomplete and truncated forms of these gene in other birds. In the rest of reptilia, perforin-like genes can be found in at least three different loci containing up to twelve copies. Notably, mammals, non-avian reptiles, amphibians, and possibly teleosts share at least one perforin-1 locus as assessed by flanking genes. Finally, fish genomes contain multiple perforin loci with varying copy numbers and diverse exon/intron patterns. We have also found evidence for shorter genes with high similarity to the C2 domain of perforin in several teleosts. A preliminary analysis suggests that these genes arose at least twice during evolution from perforin-1 homologs.

Conclusions

The assisted annotation of new genomic assemblies shows complex patterns of birth-and-death events in the evolution of perforin. These events include duplication/pseudogenization in mammals, multiple amplifications and losses in reptiles and fishes and at least one case of partial duplication with a novel start codon in fishes.