bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenolic degradation by catechol dioxygenases is associated with pathogenic fungi with a necrotrophic lifestyle in the Ceratocystidaceae
Authors: Soal Nicole C , Coetzee Martin P A , van der Nest Magriet A , Hammerbacher Almuth , Wingfield Brenda D
Published: January 2022

Fungal species of the Ceratocystidaceae grow on their host plants using a variety of different lifestyles, from saprophytic to highly pathogenic. Although many genomes of fungi in the Ceratocystidaceae are publicly available, it is not known how the genes that encode catechol dioxygenases (CDOs), enzymes involved in the degradation of phenolic plant defense compounds, differ among members of the Ceratocystidaceae. The aim of this study was therefore to identify and characterize the genes encoding CDOs in the genomes of Ceratocystidaceae representatives. We found that genes encoding CDOs are more abundant in pathogenic necrotrophic species of the Ceratocystidaceae and less abundant in saprophytic species. The loss of the CDO genes and the associated 3-oxoadipate catabolic pathway appears to have occurred in a lineage-specific manner. Taken together, this study revealed a positive association between CDO gene copy number and fungal lifestyle in Ceratocystidaceae representatives.
Associations of genetic variation in E3 SUMO-protein ligase CBX4 with noise-induced hearing loss
Authors: Wang Boshen , Wan Liu , Sun Peng , Zhang Ludi , Han Lei , Zhang Hengdong , Zhang Juan , Pu Yuepu , Zhu Baoli
Published: January 2022

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a multifactorial disease caused by environmental, genetic and epigenetic variables. SUMOylation is a post-translational modification that regulates biological processes. The objective of this study was to determine the link between genetic variation in the chromobox 4 (CBX4) and the risk of NIHL. This study applied a case–control design with 588 cases and 582 controls, and the sample was predominantly male (93.76%). The T allele of CBX4 rs1285250 was found to be significantly linked with NIHL (P = 0.002) and showed strong associations in both the codominant and recessive models (TT versus CC, P = 0.005; TT/TC versus CC, P = 0.009). By constructing a mouse model of hearing loss because of noise exposure, changes in hearing thresholds were observed in noise-exposed mice, along with a decrease in the number of cochlear hair cells. Furthermore, noise promotes cochlear hair cell apoptosis by inducing SP1/CBX4 pathway activation. Further functional studies demonstrated that SP1 has an influence on the promoter activity of the CBX4 rs1285250 intron, with the promoter activity of the T allele being higher than that of the C allele. Knockdown of transcription factor SP1 reduced the expression of CBX4 expression and simultaneously reduced apoptosis in HEI-OC1 cells. Together, our findings have shown that CBX4 genetic polymorphism rs1285250 T-allele was associated with increased risk of NIHL and might be used as biomarkers for male workers exposed to noise. Furthermore, we speculate that the CBX4 of rs1285250 T-allele leads to a stronger potential enhancer activity from a predicted gain of stronger SP1 binding.
Reevaluating Constructivist Norm Theory: A Three-Dimensional Norms Research Program
Authors: Lantis Jeffrey S , Wunderlich Carmen
Published: January 2022

Constructivist theories of norm dynamics offer a variety of analytical tools to understand the complex processes of norm emergence, diffusion, and evolution over time. As the literature has developed, though, it lacks a general framing of the interconnections between norms, norm clusters or configurations, and principles or “normativity.” This article advances a new three-dimensional model of constructivist theories of norms that emphasizes the spatial dimensions of norm meanings, legitimacy, and impact and identifies promising avenues for research progress. First, individual norms represent a primary intersubjective structural component that is both developed and contested. Second, theories of norm interrelations or norm clusters provide additional critical dimensions of structuration that may promote resiliency in the face of contestation. Third, norms exist within a larger constellation of norm structures, representing the broadest dimension in world politics. Collisions can occur in this environment, but broader normativity and institutionalization often become activated in the face of serious challenges. As demonstrated using the illustration of international responses to the Syrian civil war (2011 till present), only by attending to all three dimensions of norms can we gain a more accurate understanding of real-world circumstances of norm connections, norm collisions, and the variable effects of norm contestation. The article concludes by identifying promising research avenues building from the three-dimensional framework.
Cleaner, greener data centres
Authors: Booth John
Published: January 2022

John Booth MBCS, Data Centre Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Consultant at Carbon3IT, explores the detrimental trajectory of data centre energy use, against a backdrop of COP26, climate change and proposed EU directives.
UK government embraces green tech strategy
Authors: Howes Chris
Published: January 2022

How is Defra progressing its sustainability ambitions ahead of COP26? Chris Howes, Defra’s Chief Digital & Information Offcer and Senior Responsible Owner (SRO) for sustainable technology across government, explains.
Introducing Web in a Telephone Employee Survey: Effects on Nonresponse and Costs
Authors: Mackeben Jan , Sakshaug Joseph W
Published: January 2022

Policy decisions in business and economic fields are often informed by surveys of employees. Many employee surveys use costly interviewer-administered modes to reach this special population. However, certain employee subgroups may be especially hard to reach using these modes. Thus, besides high administration costs, nonresponse bias is a concern. To reduce costs and potential nonresponse bias, some employee surveys have introduced web as part of a sequential mixed-mode design. However, the impact of introducing web on response rates, nonresponse bias, and costs in employee surveys is understudied. The present study addresses this research gap by analyzing a mode design experiment in which employees selected for a national survey in Germany were randomly assigned to a single-mode telephone design or a sequential web-telephone mixed-mode design. The study revealed four main findings. First, introducing the web mode significantly increased the response rate compared to the single-mode design. Second, despite the higher response rate, aggregate nonresponse bias was higher in the mixed-mode design than in the single-mode design. Third, the likelihood of web participation varied across certain employee subgroups, including occupation type and employment contract. Lastly, potential cost savings were evident under the mixed-mode design.
‘Her body is Divided From Her Head’: Beheading and Biblical Intertextuality in Elizabeth Cary’s The Tragedy of Mariam
Authors: Cadman Daniel
Published: January 2022

Elizabeth Cary’s play, The Tragedy of Mariam (1613), culminates with the execution by beheading of the play’s protagonist on the orders of her husband, the tyrannical Herod the Great. By executing Mariam, Herod attempts to re-establish his authority in Jerusalem after a rumour of his death has unleashed a wave of resistance and instability across his state. This article focuses upon the choice of beheading as the mode of execution and argues that the play’s biblical setting invites comparisons with Old Testament representations of beheading (including those in the stories of David and Judith). These beheadings occur as part of narratives of resistance against tyranny and overbearing patriarchs. The article argues that Herod’s attempts to harness beheading as a means of stabilising his state, as well as the broader cultural recognition of headlessness as a symbol of feminine disorder, are offset by the anti-tyrannical and anti-patriarchal properties of biblical beheading.
Quasar feedback survey: multiphase outflows, turbulence, and evidence for feedback caused by low power radio jets inclined into the galaxy disc
Authors: Girdhar A , Harrison C M , Mainieri V , Bittner A , Costa T , Kharb P , Mukherjee D , Arrigoni Battaia F , Alexander D M , Calistro Rivera G , Circosta C , De Breuck C , Edge A C , Farina E P , Kakkad D , Lansbury G B , Molyneux S J , Mullaney J R , S Silpa , Thomson A P , Ward S R
Published: January 2022

We present a study of a luminous, $z\, =\, 0.15$, type-2 quasar ($L_{[\rm O III]}$ = 1042.8 erg s−1) from the Quasar Feedback Survey. It is classified as ‘radio-quiet’ ($L_{\mathrm{1.4\, GHz}}$ = 1023.8 W Hz−1); however, radio imaging reveals ∼ 1 kpc low-power radio jets (Pjet = 1044 erg s−1) inclined into the plane of the galaxy disc. We combine MUSE and ALMA observations to map stellar kinematics and ionized and molecular gas properties. The jets are seen to drive galaxy-wide bi-conical turbulent outflows, reaching W80  = 1000 – 1300 km s−1, in the ionized phase (traced via optical emission lines), which also have increased electron densities compared to the quiescent gas. The turbulent gas is driven perpendicular to the jet axis and is escaping along the galaxy minor axis, reaching 7.5 kpc on both sides. Traced via CO(3–2) emission, the turbulent material in molecular gas phase is one-third as spatially extended and has three times lower velocity-dispersion as compared to ionized gas. The jets are seen to be strongly interacting with the interstellar medium (ISM) through enhanced ionized emission and disturbed/depleted molecular gas at the jet termini. We see further evidence for jet-induced feedback through significantly higher stellar velocity-dispersion aligned, and co-spatial with, the jet axis ($\lt 5\, ^{\circ }$). We discuss possible negative and positive feedback scenarios arising due to the interaction of the low-power jets with the ISM in the context of recent jet–ISM interaction simulations, which qualitatively agree with our observations. We discuss how jet-induced feedback could be an important feedback mechanism even in bolometrically luminous ‘radio-quiet’ quasars.
A train of shocks at 3000-au scale? Exploring the clash of an expanding bubble into the NGC 1333 IRAS 4 region. SOLIS XIV
Authors: De Simone Marta , Codella Claudio , Ceccarelli Cecilia , López-Sepulcre Ana , Neri Roberto , Rivera-Ortiz Pedro Ruben , Busquet Gemma , Caselli Paola , Bianchi Eleonora , Fontani Francesco , Lefloch Bertrand , Oya Yoko , Pineda Jaime E
Published: January 2022

There is evidence that the star formation process is linked to the intricate net of filaments in molecular clouds, which may be also due to gas compression from external triggers. We studied the southern region of the Perseus NGC 1333 molecular cloud, known to be heavily shaped by similar external triggers, to shed light on the process that perturbed the filament where the Class 0 IRAS4 protostars lie. We use new IRAM-NOEMA observations of SiO and CH3OH, both known to trace violent events as shocks, towards IRAS 4A as part of the Large Program Seeds Of Life In Space (SOLIS). We detected three parallel elongated (>6000 au) structures, called fingers, with narrow-line profiles (∼1.5 km s−1) peaked at the cloud systemic velocity, tracing gas with high density ((5–20) × 105 cm−3) and high temperature (80–160 K). They are chemically different, with the northern finger traced by both SiO and CH3OH ([CH3OH]/[SiO] ∼ 160–300), while the other two only by SiO ([CH3OH]/[SiO] ≤ 40). Among various possibilities, a train of three shocks, distanced by ≥5000 yr, would be consistent with the observations if a substantial fraction of silicon, frozen on to the grain mantles, is released by the shocks. We suggest that the shock train is due to an expanding gas bubble, coming behind NGC 1333 from the south-west and clashing against the filament where IRAS 4A lies. Finally, we propose a solution to the two-decades-long debate on the nature and origin of the widespread narrow SiO emission observed in the south part of NGC 1333, namely that it is due to unresolved trains of shocks.
Effects of charge exchange on the evaporative wind of HD 209458b
Authors: Debrecht Alex , Carroll-Nellenback Jonathan , Frank Adam , Blackman Eric G , Fossati Luca , Murray-Clay Ruth , McCann John
Published: January 2022

The role of charge exchange in shaping exoplanet photoevaporation remains a topic of contention. Exchange of electrons between stellar wind protons from the exoplanet’s host star and neutral hydrogen from the planet’s wind has been proposed as a mechanism to create ‘energetic neutral atoms’ (ENAs), which could explain the high absorption line velocities observed in systems where mass-loss is occurring. In this paper, we present results from three-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations of the mass-loss of a planet similar to HD 209458b. We self-consistently launch a planetary wind by calculating the ionization and heating resulting from incident high-energy radiation, inject a stellar wind into the simulation, and allow electron exchange between the stellar and planetary winds. We predict the potential production of ENAs by the wind–wind interaction analytically, and then present the results of our simulations, which confirm the analytic limits. Within the limits of our hydrodynamic simulation, we find that charge exchange with the stellar wind properties examined here is unable to explain the absorption observed at high Doppler velocities.
FGC 1287 and its enigmatic 250 kpc long HI tail in the outskirts of Abell 1367
Authors: Scott T C , Cortese L , Lagos P , Brinks E , Finoguenov A , Coccato L
Published: January 2022

We present H i and radio continuum, narrow-band Hα imaging, IFU spectroscopy, and X-ray observations of the FGC 1287 triplet projected ∼1.8 Mpc west of the galaxy cluster Abell 1367. One triplet member, FGC 1287, displays an exceptionally long, 250 kpc H i tail and an unperturbed stellar disc which are the typical signatures of ram pressure stripping (RPS). To generate detectable RPS signatures the presence of an Intracluster medium ICM or intragroup medium IGM with sufficient density to produce RPS at a realistic velocity relative to the ICM or IGM is a prerequisite. However, XMM–Newton observations were not able to detect X-ray emission from the triplet, implying that if a hot ICM/IGM is present, its density, ne, is less than 2.6 × 10−5 cm−3. Higher resolution VLA H i data presented here show FGC 1287’s H i disc is truncated and significantly warped, whereas the H i tail is clumpy. TNG Hα imaging identified three star-forming clumps projected within 20 kpc of FGC 1287’s disc, with VIMOS–IFU data confirming two of these are counterparts to H i clumps in the tail. The triplet’s H i kinematics, together with Hα and radio continuum imaging suggests an interaction may have enhanced star formation in FGC 1287’s disc, but cannot readily account for the origin of the long H i tail. We consider several scenarios which might reconcile RPS with the non-detection of ICM or IGM X-ray emission but none of these unambiguously explains the origin of the long H i tail.
Phylogenetic relationship and habitat both impact the gut microbiome in two microendemic gastropods
Authors: Walters Ashley D , Arp Alex , Cerbie Gina M , Trujillo Daniel A , Kiss Andor J , Berg David J
Published: January 2022

Bacterial communities associated with eukaryotes play important roles in the physiology, development and health of their hosts. Additionally, the composition of microbes associated with eukaryotes can be indicative of evolutionary history, environment and life history. Here, we investigated the microbial ecology of two sympatric caenogastropod taxa belonging to the family Hydrobiidae, Juturnia kosteri and Pyrgulopsis roswellensis. The diversity and composition of the microbiota were described based on high-throughput Illumina sequencing targeting the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. The observed bacterial diversity was distributed over 16 phyla, with the greatest number of 16S rRNA gene sequences derived from Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Tenericutes and Planctomycetes. These results document the presence of highly diverse gut bacterial communities in the two hydrobiid species. While alpha-diversity measures were consistent across species and sites, beta-diversity measures revealed significant differences in species, collection site and the interaction of both variables. These results indicate a mixed interaction, with both species and site impacting the microbiome. However, principal coordinate analysis indicated no separation between snail species at site BLU7 (Bitter Lake Unit 7). The high impact of site on microbial communities implies that although these species have different phylogenetic histories, they show similarities in their microbiomes when occupying overlapping habitats. Further investigation into biotic and abiotic factors is necessary to elucidate differences in microbial communities between sympatric snail species.
Successful use of tofacitinib in reactive arthritis refractory to conventional therapies – a case series
Authors: Maikap Debashis , Padhan Prasanta
Published: January 2022

Reactive arthritis is an immune-mediated aseptic arthritis resulting from either genitourinary or gastrointestinal tract in a genetically susceptible host. It commonly presents as oligoarthritis of the lower limbs with or without extra-articular features such as urethritis and non-purulent conjunctivitis. Therapies include non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), conventional disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and, rarely, biologics in severe cases. We report the successful use of tofacitinib in four cases of reactive arthritis who failed to respond to conventional therapies.
Exoplanets, extraterrestrial life and beyond: an interview with Douglas Lin
Authors: Xin (辛玲) Ling
Published: January 2022

In a survey released by the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine in November 2021, the search for Earth-like planets outside our solar system was identified as a major goal for astronomy over the next 10 years. National Science Review invites Douglas N.C. Lin (林潮), emeritus professor of astrophysics from the University of California, Santa Cruz, who has studied planet formation, evolution and solar system dynamics for almost five decades, to look back on exoplanet research, a field that has expanded exponentially in the past 30 years, and to envision the opportunities and challenges in our search for habitable worlds. As the founding director of the Kavli Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics at Peking University, Lin offers his insights on how China's astronomical community can benefit more from collaboration, and what young scientists could do to seize the opportunities offered by what he calls ‘a golden era of exoplanet research’.
Ultrasound-Guided Suprazygomatic Nerve Blocks to the Pterygopalatine Fossa: A Safe Procedure
Authors: Smith Cameron R , Dickinson Katie J , Carrazana Gabriela , Beyer Astrid , Spana Jessica C , Teixeira Fernanda J P , Zamajtuk Kyle , Maciel Carolina B , Busl Katharina M
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Large-scale procedural safety data on pterygopalatine fossa nerve blocks (PPFBs) performed via a suprazygomatic, ultrasound-guided approach are lacking, leading to hesitancy surrounding this technique. The aim of this study was to characterize the safety of PPFB.

Methods

This retrospective chart review examined the records of adults who received an ultrasound-guided PPFB between January 1, 2016, and August 30, 2020, at the University of Florida. Indications included surgical procedures and nonsurgical pain. Clinical data describing PPFB were extracted from medical records. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables, and quantitative variables were analyzed with the paired t test to detect differences between before and after the procedure.

Results

A total of 833 distinct PPFBs were performed on 411 subjects (59% female, mean age 48.5 years). Minor oozing from the injection site was the only reported side effect, in a single subject. Although systolic blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation were significantly different before and after the procedure (132.3 vs 136.4 mm Hg, P < 0.0001; 78.2 vs 80.8, P = 0.0003; and 97.8% vs 96.3%, P < 0.0001; respectively), mean arterial pressure and diastolic blood pressure were not significantly different (96.2 vs 97.1 mm Hg, P = 0.1545, and 78.2 vs 77.4 mm Hg, P = 0.1314, respectively). Similar results were found within subgroups, including subgroups by sex, race, and indication for PPFB.

Discussion

We have not identified clinically significant adverse effects from PPFB performed with an ultrasound-guided suprazygomatic approach in a large cohort in the hospital setting. PPFBs are a safe and well-tolerated pain management strategy; however, prospective multicenter studies are needed.
Culture, Lending Relationships, and the Cost of Credit
Authors: Albareto Giorgio , Galardo Maddalena , Mistrulli Paolo Emilio , Sorvillo Bianca
Published: January 2022

We provide evidence on how cultural differences affect loan pricing by using a unique data set from the Italian Credit Register. We show that immigrants pay more for credit compared with natives and that this difference is smaller for immigrants who have Italian parents and for those belonging to the Christian religion. Furthermore, we find that the gap between immigrants and natives narrows as the amount of information shared among lenders through the credit register increases. This suggests that most of the higher cost of credit paid by immigrants is due to statistical discrimination rather than taste-based discrimination. (JEL G21, J15, J71)
Utility of the breath-holding test in patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Yeo Jina , Kim Ju Yeon , Kim Mi Hyeon , Park Jun Won , Park Jin Kyun , Lee Eun Bong
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Cardiopulmonary involvement is a major cause of death in patients with SSc. This study evaluated the clinical utility and reliability of breath-holding test (BHT) in evaluating cardiopulmonary function in patients with SSc.

Methods

Seventy-two prospectively enrolled patients with SSc underwent BHT and the 6 min walk test (6MWT), along with measurements of the Borg dyspnoea scale and Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire (SHAQ). Data on pulmonary function test and echocardiography were also collected. Validity was assessed based on the correlations between the best BHT and relevant clinical parameters. To assess the reliability of BHT, an additional 31 patients with SSc underwent BHTs twice within 2 week intervals.

Results

Mean (s.d.) best BHT time was 38.4 (15.7) s, and 6MWT distance was 473.5 (95.5) m. BHT showed significant correlations with the Borg dyspnoea scale before (r = −0.367, P < 0.001) and after (r = −0.285, P = 0.016) testing, whereas 6MWT were correlated with the Borg dyspnoea scale after (r = −0.351, P = 0.002) but not before (r = −0.113, P = 0.343) testing. BHT time was correlated with diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (%, r = 0.426, P < 0.001), forced vital capacity (litres, r = 0.373, P = 0.001), pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (mmHg, r = −0.272, P = 0.031) and SHAQ score (r = −0.470, P < 0.001), but not with left ventricular ejection fraction (%, r = −0.135, P = 0.263). BHT showed excellent reliability, with an intraclass correlation coefficient (2, 1) of 0.943 (95% CI: 0.88, 0.97).

Conclusion

BHT, a simple and less time-consuming test, shows excellent reliability and significant correlation with the Borg scale, SHAQ and pulmonary parameters. These results suggest that BHT might be a useful surrogate marker of pulmonary capacity in SSc patients.

Trial registration number

NCT04484948.
Large body movements on video polysomnography are associated with daytime dysfunction in children with restless sleep disorder
Authors: Liu Wei K , Dye Thomas J , Horn Paul , Patterson Connor , Garner David , Simakajornboon Narong
Published: January 2022

Restless sleep disorder (RSD) is a newly defined sleep-related movement disorder characterized by large muscle movements (LMM) in sleep. We examined the sleep study, clinical characteristics, and daytime functioning in children with RSD and compared them to children with periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) or restless legs syndrome (RLS). Video polysomnography from 47 children with restless sleep was retrospectively reviewed for LMM and age- and sex-matched to 34 children with PLMD and 12 children with RLS. Data examined included PSG characteristics, ferritin, Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL), and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Fourteen children met the clinical criteria for RSD with an LMM index of 5 or more per hour of sleep. Mean ESS was elevated in patients with RSD compared to either the PLMD or RLS groups though the result did not reach statistical significance (RSD = 10.20 ± 6.81, PLMD = 6.19 ± 4.14, RLS = 6.25 ± 4.90). The PedsQL score was significantly decreased in the RLS group compared to RSD and was reduced overall in all three groups (PedsQL Total RSD = 70.76 ± 18.05, PLMD = 57.05 ± 20.33, RLS = 53.24 ± 16.97). Serum ferritin values were similar in all three groups (RSD = 26.89 ± 10.29, PLMD = 33.91 ± 20.31, RLS = 23.69 ± 12.94 ng/mL, p = ns). Children with RSD demonstrate increased daytime sleepiness compared to PLMD or RLS and all three disease groups showed decreased quality of life. Further studies are needed to examine long-term consequences of RSD.
Perceived Parental Support in Teen Dating Violence
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jessica M
Published: January 2022

This qualitative study explores heterosexual teen girls’ perceptions of parental support in abusive dating relationships during high school. Teen girls are at high risk for dating violence. Symbolic interaction theory asserts that meaning is assigned through our interactions, and these assigned meanings then influence our behavior. Findings demonstrate that teen girls assign meaning to dating and abuse, which is often reflective of traditional gender stereotypes, through their interactions with their boyfriends. However, due to the life course, parents of teens are in a unique position to provide different meanings that foster healthier dating relationships. Analysis of semistructured retrospective interviews found that, like adults, teen victims perceived parents’ support to be inconsistent. Parents who provided support, such as ensuring safety, giving advice, and involving other professionals, played an instrumental role in helping teen girls end abusive dating relationships. Social workers should engage parents, schools, and peers in prevention education efforts that challenge gender norms and provide training on how to effectively intervene and provide support to teens that are experiencing abuse in their dating relationships.
Women and Incarceration: Introducing a Gendered Lens into Smart Decarceration
Authors: Gottlieb Aaron , Mahabir Melissa
Published: January 2022

Given the scope of mass incarceration, it is quite appropriate that promote smart decarceration (PSD) has been identified as one of the 13 Grand Challenges for Social Work. The aims of PSD are both ambitious and critical but do not address women explicitly. The authors argue that PSD should incorporate a gendered lens because a gender-responsive framework is critical for these three reasons: (1) women’s pathways to incarceration are different than men's and are shaped by their social status and multiple forms of marginalization based on race, socioeconomic status, gender, and other factors; (2) women face gender-specific needs behind bars (especially those related to reproductive health) and have higher rates of behavioral health needs (e.g., mental health disorders, substance use issues) than men; and (3) although men and women face similar reentry challenges (e.g., housing, parenting, economic hardship, behavioral health), women experience many of these risk factors at higher rates, and their social status shapes how these needs impact their reentry. Until social workers and other advocates consider all the various and intersecting identities of all those impacted by the criminal legal system, they will be never be successful in ending mass incarceration.
Predicting mortality in elderly trauma patients: a review of the current literature
Authors: Chow Jarva , Kuza Catherine M.
Published: January 2022

Purpose of review

Advances in medical care allow patients to live longer, translating into a larger geriatric patient population. Adverse outcomes increase with older age, regardless of injury severity. Age, comorbidities, and physiologic deterioration have been associated with the increased mortality seen in geriatric trauma patients. As such, outcome prediction models are critical to guide clinical decision making and goals of care discussions for this population. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the various outcome prediction models for geriatric trauma patients.

Recent findings

There are several prediction models used for predicting mortality in elderly trauma patients. The Geriatric Trauma Outcome Score (GTOS) is a validated and accurate predictor of mortality in geriatric trauma patients and performs equally if not better to traditional scores such as the Trauma and Injury Severity Score. However, studies recommend medical comorbidities be included in outcome prediction models for geriatric patients to further improve performance.

The ideal outcome prediction model for geriatric trauma patients has not been identified. The GTOS demonstrates accurate predictive ability in elderly trauma patients. The addition of medical comorbidities as a variable in outcome prediction tools may result in superior performance; however, additional research is warranted.
Inhalational Versus Propofol-based Intravenous Maintenance of Anesthesia for Emergence Delirium in Adults: A Meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Yang Yong , Feng Lin , Ji Chengcheng , Lu Kaizhi , Chen Yang , Chen Bing
Published: January 2022

Emergence delirium (ED) is a severe postoperative complication that increases the risk for injury, self-extubation, and hemorrhage. Inhalational maintenance of anesthesia is a risk factor for ED in pediatric patients, but its impact in adults is undefined. This meta-analysis compares the incidence of ED between inhalational and propofol-based intravenous maintenance of anesthesia. Following a search of the PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases, 12 high-quality randomized controlled trials including 1440 patients, were identified for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Compared with propofol-based intravenous maintenance of anesthesia, inhalational maintenance increased the incidence of ED in adults (risk ratio [RR], 2.02; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.30-3.14; P=0.002). This was confirmed by sensitivity analysis, trial sequential analysis, and subgroup analyses of studies that assessed ED via Aono’s four-point scale (RR, 3.72; 95% CI: 1.48-9.31; P=0.005) and the Ricker Sedation Agitation Scale (RR, 3.48; 95% CI: 1.66-7.32; P=0.001), studies that included sevoflurane for maintenance of anesthesia (RR, 1.87; 95% CI: 1.13-3.09; P=0.02), studies that reported ED as the primary outcome (RR, 2.73; 95% CI: 1.53-4.86; P=0.0007), and studies that investigated ocular (RR, 2.98; 95% CI: 1.10-8.10; P=0.03), nasal (RR; 95% CI: 1.27-6.50; P=0.01), and abdominal (RR, 3.25; 95% CI: 1.12-9.40; P=0.03) surgeries, but not intracranial surgery (RR, 0.72; 95% CI: 0.34-1.54; P=0.40). In summary, inhalational maintenance of sevoflurane was a risk factor for ED compared with propofol-based intravenous maintenance in adults who underwent ocular, nasal, and abdominal surgeries but not intracranial surgery.
Associations between cancer family history and esophageal cancer and precancerous lesions in high-risk areas of China
Authors: Zhou Jiachen , Sun Kexin , Wang Shaoming , Chen Ru , Li Minjuan , Gu Jianhua , Fan Zhiyuan , Zhuang Guihua , Wei Wenqiang
Published: January 2022

Background:

Family clustering of esophageal cancer (EC) has been found in high-risk areas of China. However, the relationships between cancer family history and esophageal cancer and precancerous lesions (ECPL) have not been comprehensively reported in recent years. This study aimed to provide evidence for identification of high-risk populations.

Methods:

This study was conducted in five high-risk areas in China from 2017 to 2019, based on the National Cohort of Esophageal Cancer. The permanent residents aged 40 to 69 years were examined by endoscopy, and pathological examination was performed for suspicious lesions. Information on demographic characteristics, environmental factors, and cancer family history was collected. Unconditional logistic regression was applied to evaluate odds ratios between family history related factors and ECPL.

Results:

Among 33,008 participants, 6143 (18.61%) reported positive family history of EC. The proportion of positive family history varied significantly among high-risk areas. After adjusting for risk factors, participants with a family history of positive cancer, gastric and esophageal cancer or EC had 1.49-fold (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.36–1.62), 1.52-fold (95% CI: 1.38–1.67), or 1.66-fold (95% CI: 1.50–1.84) higher risks of ECPL, respectively. Participants with single or multiple first-degree relatives (FDR) of positive EC history had 1.65-fold (95% CI: 1.47–1.84) or 1.93-fold (95% CI: 1.46–2.54) higher risks of ECPL. Participants with FDRs who developed EC before 35, 45, and 50 years of age had 4.05-fold (95% CI: 1.30–12.65), 2.11-fold (95% CI: 1.37–3.25), and 1.91-fold (95% CI: 1.44–2.54) higher risks of ECPL, respectively.

Conclusions:

Participants with positive family history of EC had significantly higher risk of ECPL. This risk increased with the number of EC positive FDRs and EC family history of early onset. Distinctive genetic risk factors of the population in high-risk areas of China require further investigation.

Trial registration:

ChiCTR-EOC-17010553.
Risk of tuberculosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with biological and targeted drugs: meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Ji Xiaojian , Hu Lidong , Wang Yiwen , Man Siliang , Liu Xingkang , Song Chuan , Zhang Jiaxin , Zhu Jian , Zhang Jianglin , Huang Feng
Published: January 2022

Background:

Concerns exist regarding the potential development of tuberculosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with biological and targeted drugs. We assessed systematically whether biological therapy increased the risk of tuberculosis in patients with RA by meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and China Biology Medicine disc for RCTs evaluating biological therapy in patients with RA from inception through August 2021. Traditional meta-analysis and network meta-analysis were performed to compare the risk of tuberculosis for each biologics class in patients with RA. Peto odds ratio (Peto OR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated as the primary effect measure.

Results:

In total, 39 studies with 20,354 patients were included in this meta-analysis, and 82 patients developed tuberculosis. The risk of tuberculosis was increased in patients treated with biologics compared with non-biologics (Peto OR: 3.86, 95% CI: 2.36–6.32, P < 0.001). Also, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) inhibitors had a higher probability of developing tuberculosis than placebo (Peto OR: 3.98, 95% CI: 2.30–6.88, P < 0.001). However, network meta-analysis demonstrated that there was no significant difference in the risk of tuberculosis for each biologics class in patients with RA. Noticeably, tuberculosis was significantly more common in patients treated with a high dose compared with patients receiving a low dose of tofacitinib (Peto OR: 7.39, 95% CI: 2.00–27.31, P = 0.003).

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis demonstrates the evidence of an elevated risk of tuberculosis in patients with RA treated with TNF-α inhibitors, and a dose-dependent elevated risk of tuberculosis in patients treated with tofacitinib.
Inhibition of cathepsin B protects pancreatic acinar cells against apoptosis in early pancreatic trauma in rats
Authors: Feng Cong , Wang Lili , Peng Jingyang , Cui Xiang , Zhou Xuan
Published: January 2022

Objectives:

To observe the protective effect of cathepsin B inhibition against apoptosis of acinar cells in the early management of pancreatic contusion and laceration in rats, which would provide evidence of a potential early therapeutic for pancreatic contusion and laceration.

Methods:

Twenty-four rats were assigned to 2 groups: 1) Model (n = 12) with an induced pancreatic injury of severity I–II and 2) CA074-V (n = 12): an induced pancreatic injury, severity I–II treated with the cathepsin B inhibitor CA074-me (0.01 mg/g) by intravenous administration through the caudal vein at 5 minutes post model establishment. The mice in these two groups were further randomly divided into 4 subgroups containing 3 rats each that were sacrificed for quantitation of apoptosis, immunohistochemistry of cathepsin B, and serum amylase and lipase measurements at different time points after model establishment (0, 3, 6, and 12 hours).

Results:

The percentage of apoptotic pancreatic acinar cells collected from the injured tissues were much lower in the CA074-V group than the Model group at 3 hours [9.25 ± 3.94% vs. 64.76 ± 26.47%, P < 0.10] and 6 hours [14.71 ± 8.22% vs. 66.60 ± 13.54%, P < 0.10] post model establishment. The percentage of cathepsin B-positive pancreatic acinar cells were much lower in the CA074-V group than in the Model group at 3 hours [31.07 ± 12.02% vs. 69.16 ± 5.71%, P < 0.10], 6 hours [24.84 ± 0.93% vs. 47.06 ± 0.91%, P < 0.10], and 12 hours [28.33 ± 9.14% vs. 52.72 ± 1.25%, P < 0.10] post model establishment.

Conclusions:

Early cathepsin B inhibition effectively blocked acinar cell apoptosis in an experimental rat model of pancreatic contusion and laceration.
Facial Nerve Revascularization Strategies in Facial Restoration
Authors: Khajuria Ankur , Bisase Brian , Norris Paul , Dhanda Jag , Koshima Isao , Nduka Charles , Kannan Ruben Y.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Facial transplants represent the current exemplar in the reconstruction of severely damaged faces, whereas conventional free flap reconstruction has its limitations in restoring both function and surface cover.

Methods:

In a retrospective study over 6 years (2014–2020), 5 cases (n = 5) of vascularized nerve flaps (VNFs) were performed by our team. These involved three acute and two late reconstructions. The mean age was 41 years with a maximum of 6-year follow-up. To objectify the different permutations and combinations, we categorized composite, chimeric, and hybrid VNFs into types I, IIa-c, and III, each with a unique characteristic. Postoperative function was evaluated using the validated Sunnybrook and Terzis scores for facial nerve palsy; masticatory function was assessed using dental impression studies.

Results:

There was a 100% flap survival rate, with no instances of flap necrosis and only one complication: hematoma at 24 hours postoperative. Sunnybrook and Terzis scores showed a statistically significant improvement postoperatively, indicating both improved repose and facial expressions (paired student t test, P < 0.05). Given that each VNF was specifically customized for a particular patient, each type of VNF in this cohort was unique, thereby illustrating each type succinctly.

Conclusions:

VNFs are separate entities from standard free flaps, as they require extensive preoperative planning to allow the deconstructing of composite blocks of tissue into separate vascularized entities and amalgamating them into a new conglomerate. This allows VNFs to fill a niche area in facial reconstructive surgery between face transplants and conventional free tissue transfers, with enormous potential.
A Retrospective Review of Psychosocial Outcomes After Microprocessor Knee Prescription
Authors: Dunlop Fraser , Aranceta-Garza Alejandra , Munjal Ramesh , McGarry Anthony , Murray Laura
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Microprocessor knees have been shown to improve gait biomechanics and to reduce the frequency of falls, but evidence of their influence on psychosocial health is limited.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the change in psychosocial outcome measures when prosthetic users change from a non–microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee (NMPK) to a microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee (MPK).

Methods

Using validated outcome measures, physical and psychological attributes of 26 MPK users were analyzed using data collected at routine appointments. Baseline data were collected using NMPK limbs first, then compared with data collected 4 weeks and 6 months after initial MPK fitting.

Results

A significant improvement of 13.7% in Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI) scores was observed after 6 months (P = 0.001). The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) demonstrated a 64.6% significant reduction in the presence of depression-like symptoms after 6 months of MPK use (P < 0.001), including four participants who previously scored highly enough to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Frequency of falls reduced significantly as well (P < 0.001). Increases in self-selected walking speed were seen in both the 2-minute walk and 6-minute walk tests.

Conclusions

Significant improvements were seen in all psychosocial outcome measures, indicating participants' psychosocial health improved with the prescription of an MPK despite a lack of clinically important improvements in parallel performance-based outcome measures.

Clinical Relevance

MPKs are well documented to reduce trips and falls, which is corroborated by this research. However, the psychosocial benefits of MPKs are not documented extensively; this study provides evidence of an improvement in psychological wellbeing in this cohort.
Influencing Factors of Hope Among Chinese Patients With Hematological Malignancies From the Perspective of Positive Psychology
Authors: Yu Junye , Dong Huan , Song Yuanyuan , Zhu Fengying
Published: January 2022

Background

Hope is an important resource and reserve for patients with hematological malignancies to cope with stress. Through analyzing hope levels and its influencing factors, this study provides evidence for developing psychological interventions for this population.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the influencing factors of hope in patients with hematological malignancies.

Methods

A cross-sectional study including 165 participants with hematological malignancies was performed from November 2019 through June 2020 in a tertiary hospital in Beijing, China. The Adult Dispositional Hope Scale, UCLA Loneliness Scale, Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire, Self-esteem Scale, and Big Five Short-Form Scale were used to evaluate each variable. Regression analysis was conducted to explore the influencing factors of hope.

Results

The total mean hope level (40.39 ± 4.32) was significantly lower than the national norm. Multiple stepwise regression analysis indicated that openness (β = .38, P < .001), neuroticism (β = −0.25, P < .001), rigor (β = −0.15, P = .043), self-esteem (β = .33, P < .001), positive response (β = .22, P < .001), negative response (β = .12, P = .039), and residential region (β = .17, P = .002) were significantly associated with the total hope level among patients with hematological malignancies. Self-esteem and openness were positively correlated with the total mean hope score and its 3 subdimensions.

Conclusion

The hope level was relatively low in patients with hematological malignancies. Hope level was affected by individual personality traits, coping styles, self-esteem, and loneliness.

Implication for Practice

Attention should be drawn to the relationship between the hope level and positive psychological characteristics among patients with hematological malignancies. Our study supports the need to develop tailored and effective interventions to improve the level of hope among this patient population.
Assessing Physical and Cognitive Function in Individuals With Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Visovatti Moira A. , Jung Mi Sook , Mason Heidi , DeRubeis Mary Beth , Worden Francis P. , Barton Debra L.
Published: January 2022

Background

Head and neck cancer (HNC) and associated treatments have significant long-term and late adverse effects that can impair function. Therefore, there is a need for reliable common metrics to assess function in HNC that limit participant burden and are cost-effective and easy to use in clinical settings.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of using the Fitbit Zip, NIH Toolbox, and REDCap electronic data collection tool to measure function and symptoms in individuals with HNC and to explore preliminary findings.

Methods

A prospective descriptive design with a total of 16 participants was used to assess function and symptoms pretreatment to 3 months post treatment initiation.

Results

The enrollment rate was 49%, the retention rate was 81%, and the Fitbit Zip adherence rate was 86%. Exploratory analyses suggested a possible decline in physical activity and worsening symptom burden alongside improved attention and cognitive flexibility abilities (P ≤ .05). There were no differences in strength, functional mobility, information processing, or perceived attentional function.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that use of the Fitbit Zip, NIH Toolbox, and REDCap data collection tool in HNC is feasible. Exploratory analyses suggest that the Fitbit Zip may be a sensitive measure of physical activity in HNC.

Implications for Practice

This study provides preliminary evidence for metrics that could be used in the clinical settings to assess function and symptom distress in HNC. Integration of these measures, upon further validation, could help providers better identify patients in need of intervention.
Effectiveness of Pharmacological and Nonpharmacological Interventions for Managing the Fatigue–Sleep Disturbance–Depression Symptom Cluster in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Authors: Wong Wai Man , Chan Dorothy N.S. , He Xiaole , So Winnie K.W.
Published: January 2022

Background

The symptom cluster of cancer-related fatigue–sleep disturbance–depression (F-S-D) is common among breast cancer (BC) patients undergoing chemotherapy. Given the coexisting nature and synergistic effect of this symptom cluster, interventions for managing it are expected to benefit patient outcomes.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to examine the effectiveness and identify the essential components of interventions used to manage the F-S-D and quality of life (QOL) in BC patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Methods

A systematic review was performed in March 2020 through 7 electronic databases. Relevant studies were assessed using the inclusion criteria. The level of evidence was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. The results were summarized and synthesized in narrative forms.

Results

Sixteen randomized controlled trials were included. Results showed that bright light therapy, acupressure, and psychological nursing interventions were useful in managing F-S-D in BC patients. Exercise and diet counseling alleviated F-D, whereas stress management and a health promotion program alleviated S-D. Bright light therapy, exercise, diet counseling, and psychological nursing interventions enhanced the QOL of these patients.

Conclusion

Interventions that could alleviate F-S, F-D, S-D, and F-S-D in BC patients and enhance their QOL were identified. Future studies should investigate the effects of evidence-based multimodal interventions that integrate psychological support, education on the management of chemotherapy side effects, and diet counseling and exercise on F-S-D in and reduced QOL of BC patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Implications for Practice

Nurses act as patient advocates, and the development of evidence-based interventions for managing F-S-D and QOL is significant to nursing practice.