bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3-Allylsalicylaldehyde and 3-Allylsalicylic Acid Derivatives: Synthesis and Conversion to Allyl-crown Compounds as New Potential Precursors for Polymer Supported Crown Compounds
Authors: Ibrahim Yehia A. , Elwahy Ahmed H. M. , Abbas Ashraf A. , Kassab Refaie M.
Published: June 2021

3-Allylsalicylaldehyde and methyl 3-allylsalicylate are converted in moderate to good yields into the new diallyl substituted 14–16, 23–25-membered macrocyclic crown diamides 8a–h, 10a–c, 15a,b and the 21–23-membered dithiatetraaza-crown compounds 17a–g, 18a–c.
Experimental Study of the Oxidation of Gaseous Monomethylhydrazine in a Strictly Monophasic Medium
Authors: Molinet Josiane , Marchand Alain , Delalu Henri , Counioux Jean-Jacques
Published: June 2021

Intermediate and final products of the oxidation of monomethylhydrazine by dioxygen are studied using an original device which allows analysis of the gaseous medium under strictly monophasic conditions.
Ab initio Study of Nucleophilic Aromatic Substitution of Polyfluorobenzene
Authors: Tanaka Kiyoshi , Deguchi Makoto , Iwata Satoru
Published: June 2021

Calculations at ab initio levels of theory of the nucleophilic aromatic substitution of pentafluoronitrobenzene with amines demonstrate an addition–elimination mechanism (SNAr), with the rate-determining step at the second transition state involving C–F bond breaking, and support the ortho-selectivity of the reactions based on the stability of the second transition states.
Novel 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition of Quinoxalinium N-Ylide to Alkene promoted by MnO2: A New Approach to Synthesis of Pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines
Authors: Zhou Jian , Zhang Lande , Hu Yuefei , Hu Hongwen
Published: June 2021

A novel approach to synthesize pyrrolo[1,2- a]quinoxalines was developed successfully by 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of a quinoxalinium N-ylide to alkenes in the presence of MnO2 under very convenient conditions and with moderate yields (40–52%).
A Minor Acylated Triterpenoid Saponin from the Seeds of Pithecellobium dulce
Authors: Sahu Niranjan P. , Koike Kazuo , Jia Zhonghua , Banerjee Sukdeb , Achari Basudeb , Nikaido Tamotsu
Published: June 2021

A novel acylated triterpenoid saponin, designated pithecelloside, is isolated from the seeds of Pithecellobium dulce and characterised as 3- O-[α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]-21β- O-[(2' E)-6'-hydroxy-2’,6'-dimethylocta-2’,7'-dienoyl]acacic acid 1.
Microwave-assisted Rapid Ketalization/Acetalization of Aromatic Aldehydes and Ketones in Aqueous Media
Authors: Pourjavadi Ali , Mirjalili Bibi Fatemeh
Published: June 2021

Aromatic aldehydes and ketones are readily acetalized or ketalized under microwave irradiation in the presence of water as a solvent.
Preparation of β-Substituted α-(Acetoxymethyl)cyclohex-2-en-1-ones
Authors: Rezgui F. , El Gaïed M. M.
Published: June 2021

An effective three-step sequence for the preparation of β-substituted 2-(acetoxymethyl)cyclohex-2-en-1-ones 4, via oxydative allylic transposition of the corresponding allylic alcohols 3, is reported.
[1 + 4]Cycloaddition of Isocyanides with 2-Acetyl-1,4-benzoquinone; a Convenient Synthesis of Isobenzofuran-4,7-quinones
Authors: Shaabani Ahmad , Ajabi Shahram , Farrokhzad Farhad , Bijanzadeh Hamid Reza
Published: June 2021

Isocyanides undergo formal [1 + 4]cycloaddition with 2-acetyl-1,4-benzoquinone to afford isobenzofuran-4,7-quinone derivatives.
Benzodiazepine Analogues. Part 20. Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Benzoxathiepine Derivatives
Authors: Gelebe Aifheli C. , Kaye Perry T.
Published: June 2021

Fragmentation patterns in the electron-impact (El) mass spectra of benzoxathiepine derivatives are elucidated using a combination of high-resolution and comparative low-resolution mass spectrometric analysis.
Improved, Acid-catalyzed Iodinating Procedures for Activated Aromatics with (Diacetoxyiodo)benzene as the Oxidant
Authors: Kryska Anna , Skulski Lech
Published: June 2021

Activated aromatics are effectively converted, at room temperature and within 15min, into the corresponding mono-, di- or tri-iodinated products in anhydrous l2-Phl(OAc)2-AcOH-Ac2O systems, acidified with catalytic amounts of conc. H2SO4.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Flavonoids. Part 8. Free Phenolic Flavan-3-ol Diastereoisomers
Authors: Nel Reinier J. J. , van Rensburg Hendrik , van Heerden Pieter S. , Ferreira Daneel
Published: June 2021

Asymmetric dihydroxylation of a series of poly- O-methoxymethyl-1,3-diarylpropenes with AD-mix-α or AD-mix-β and subsequent acid-catalyzed cyclization of the intermediate syn-diols permits the first synthetic access to all four diastereoisomers of free phenolic flavan-3-ols in high enantiomeric excess and yield.
1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition of Dipolar Reagents to Bifunctional Olefins in the Presence of Chloramine-T (CAT)
Authors: Padmavathi V. , Sumathi R. P. , Babu N. Chandrasekhar , Reddy D. Bhaskar
Published: June 2021

2-Pyrazolines and 2-isoxazolines are prepared by the reaction of araldehyde hydrazones and araldoximes with bifunctional olefins in the presence of chloramine-T, which also functions as a reagent for aromatization of the former.
Formation of a Stabilised Phospholane Salt
Authors: Lewis Andrew L. , Stokes Howard C. K.
Published: June 2021

N,N′-Substituted amines (as illustrated using TMEDA) will react with a short chain 2-alkoxy-2-oxo-1,3,2-dioxaphospholane, to form a stabilised phospholane salt and not the corresponding phosphobetaine as anticipated.
Thionyl Chloride-induced Conversion of 1-Ethyl-1,4-dihydro-2-methyl-4-oxoquinoline-3-carboxylic Acids to Highly Functionalised Thieno[3,4-b]quinoline Derivatives
Authors: Levendis Demetrius C. , Moffit Jeffrey , Staskun Benjamin , van Es Theodorus
Published: June 2021

Warming a title acid with SOCl2 gives the corresponding 3,3,9-trichlorothieno[3,4- b]quinolin-1 (3 H)-one whereas reaction at room temperature leads to the intermediate 3,3-dichloro-4-ethylthieno[3,4- b]quinoline-1(3 H),9(4 H)-dione product as established from the respective X-ray crystallographic determinations.
The Autocatalytic Oxidation of Aniline by Persulfate and Permanganate as a Means for the Deposition of a Thin Polyaniline Film
Authors: Mažeikienė R. , Malinauskas A.
Published: June 2021

The autocatalytic oxidation of aniline in an acidic solution with persulfate and permanganate, followed by the use of UV-Vis spectroscopy, leads to the deposition of a thin layer of the reaction product polyaniline onto glass and platinum.
A Simple Route to β-Ferrocenylpyridine Derivatives
Authors: Liu Chao-min , Xu Qi-hai , Liang Yong-min , Ma Yong-xiang
Published: June 2021

A convenient method for the synthesis of β-ferrocenylpyridine derivatives, using [Pd]-catalyzed Stille across-coupling reaction, is described.
Solvolysis of 3,4-Dihalogeno-3,4-dihydro-2H-naphtho[1,2-b]pyrans and 1,2-Dihalogeno-2,3-dihydro-1H-naphtho[2,1 -b]pyrans
Authors: Derrick Ian A. R. , Livingstone Robert , McGreevy Bruce J.
Published: June 2021

Rates and activation parameters are obtained for the hydrolysis of trans-3 ax,4 ax-dihalogeno-3,4-dihydro-2 H-naphtho[1;2- b]pyrans and trans-1 ax,2 ax-dihalogeno-2,3-dihydro-1 H-naphtho[2,1-,6]pyrans1 and the methanolysis of the latter compounds in acetone–water and acetone–methanol, respectively.
Neutral and Cationic Rhodium(III) Complexes with Tridentate Bis(benzimidazole)amine Ligands
Authors: Moszner Monika , Kwaskowska-Chęć Ewa , Wołowiec Stanisław , Jerzykiewicz Lucjan B. , Ziółkowski Józef J.
Published: June 2021

The X-ray crystal structures of bis(benzimidazol-2-ylmethyl)methylamine (L) and N,N-bis(1-methylbenzimidazol-2-ylmethyl)methylamine (Me2L) are described; mono- and bis-ligand rhodium(III) complexes of L and Me2L are prepared and characterized by elemental analysis, conductometric measurements, NMR and IR spectroscopy.
Preparation of (±)-[1,2-13C2]Abscisic Acid for Use as a Stable and Pure Internal Standard
Authors: Asami Tadao , Sekimata Katsuhiko , Wang Jing Ming , Yoneyama Koichi , Takeuchi Yasutomo , Yoshida Shigeo
Published: June 2021

[1,2-13C2]ABA, which is designed as a stable and pure internal standard for GC/MS analysis, is synthesized through the Witting reaction of 1-hydroxy-4-keto-α-ionone with carbomethoxymethylenetriphenylphosphorane prepared from [1,2-13C2]bromoacetic acid followed by saponification of the product methyl [1,2-13C2]ABA.
Chemistry of Indoles carrying a Basic Function. Part 5.1 Some Observations while Constructing an Ergoline Ring by Stobbe Reaction
Authors: Moldvai István , Temesvári-Major Eszter , Balázs Mihály , Gács-Baitz Eszter , Egyed Orsolya , Szántay Csaba
Published: June 2021

Tricyclic indole derivative 11 affords the imide 12 under Stobbe reaction conditions rather than the expected intermediate containing an ergoline ring.
Evidence for Equilibrium between N-Substituted 3-Phosphorylidenepyrrolidine-2,5-diones and N-Substituted Maleimides and Phosphines: Thermal Instability of the N-Substituted Phosphoranes
Authors: Koszytkowska-Stawińska Mariola , Sas Wojciech
Published: June 2021

The formation of N-substituted 3-phosphorylidenepyrrolidine-2,5-diones from N-substituted maleimides and phosphines is reversible and at elevated temperature the phosphoranes behave as a source of maleimide derivatives which give the corresponding cycloadducts with nitrones and 1,3-dienes; a consequence of this equilibrium is the thermal instability of the ylides.
Iodine-Methanol-promoted Oxidation of 2-Aryl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-4-quinolones to 2-Aryl-4-methoxyquinolines
Authors: Mphahlele Malose J. , Mogamisi Fidelia K. , Tsanwani Mutshutshu , Hlatshwayo Sebayitseng M. , Mampa Richard M.
Published: June 2021

2-Aryl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-4-quinolones are converted in high yields to the corresponding 2-aryl-4-methoxyquinolines using molecular iodine in refluxing methanol; the structures of the quinoline derivatives are determined using 1H and 13CNMR spectroscopic techniques.
Microwave-assisted 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition Reactions of Nitrilimines and Nitrile Oxides
Authors: Kaddar Hafida , Hamelin Jack , Benhaoua Hadj
Published: June 2021

The 1,3-dipolar activity of hydrazonoyl chlorides and oxime chlorides over alumina with various alkenes and alkynes under microwave irradiation is studied; a comparative study between dry media conditions and the procedure in homogeneous solution under microwave and classical heating is described.
Mild and Efficient Alkene Epoxidation and Alkane Hydroxylation by Manganese(III) Porphyrin Supported on IRA-400 Ion-exchange Resin
Authors: Mirkhani Valiollah , Tangestaninejad Shahram , Moghadam Majid
Published: June 2021

Sulfonated manganese(III) tetraphenylporphyrin supported on Amberlite IRA-400 ion-exchange resin (MnTPPS-Ad), can act as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for alkene epoxidation and alkane hydroxylation by sodium periodate in the presence of imadazole.
Medium-sized Cyclophanes. Part 49.1O-Alkylation of 8,16-Dihydroxy[2.2]-metacyclophane
Authors: Yamato Takehiko , Yamada Yuta , Hirahara Mai
Published: June 2021

O-Alkylation of 8,16-dihydroxy[2.2]metacyclophane 1 with alkyl halides in the presence of K2CO3 affords the mono- O-alkylated product 2; similar reaction in the presence of Cs2CO3 or NaH affords dialkylated product 3 in almost quantitative yield.
Microwave Enhanced Deuteriations in the Solid State using Alumina Doped Sodium Borodeuteride
Authors: Erb Wouter Th. , Jones John R. , Lu Shui-Yu
Published: June 2021

A number of deuteriated alcohols are rapidly ( ca. 1 min) synthesised through the microwave enhanced solid state reduction of the corresponding aldehydes and ketones using alumina doped sodium borodeuteride (NaBD4).
Synthesis and Structure of 1,3-[5,5'-(1,2-Phenylenedimethylenedithio)bis-(2,3-dihydro-2-oxo-1,3,4-thiadiazol-3-yl]propane
Authors: Cho Nam Sook , Park Chang Kown , Hwang Hye Jeong , Hong Soon , Kim Jin-gyu , Sun Hwan
Published: June 2021

1,3-[5,5'-(1,2-Phenylenedimethylenedithio)bis(2,3-dihydro-2-oxo-1,3,4-thiadiazol-3-yl]propane is prepared and its structure clearly established from spectroscopic data (IR, 1H and 13C NMR, and mass spectrometry) and X-ray crystallography.
Nonverbal expressions of soccer coaches during the game and their potential effects on observers
Authors: Thrien Fanny , Furley Philip
Published: June 2021

This study aims to investigate the communicative content of nonverbal (emotion) expressions of soccer coaches during a game and how these provide information about the current situation and how this information might impact players’ self-confidence during a game. In Studies 1 ( N = 137) and 2 ( N = 102) we investigated if soccer coaches are estimated to be happier and are rated higher on dimensions related to social status when their team is leading compared to when it is trailing. Results showed that observers rated coaches as happier, more dominant, more proud, and more confident when their team was leading. In Study 3 ( N = 152), participants watched short videos depicting the coach's NVB during a game and rated whether the coach's team was trailing or leading. The results showed that observers could clearly distinguish between leading and trailing coaches. In the fourth study, 72 soccer players were asked to watch the same videos from the first three studies and rate their own level of confidence in reaction to the coach's NVB in a hypothetical scenario. The results indicate that a coach's NVB can influence his athletes' self-confidence during a game. The practical implications of the findings regarding the body language of coaches are discussed.
Malignant middle cerebral artery syndrome with thrombotic thrombocytopenia following vaccination against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Jacob Carmen , Rani Khairil Amir , Holton Patrick James , Boyce Sara Rosalind , Weir Nicolas Ulrick , Griffith Colin Roderick , Eynon Colin Andrew
Published: June 2021

Cases of thromboses at unusual sites with thrombocytopenia have been reported following vaccination against Sars-CoV-2. This new syndrome, christened vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), mainly results in venous thromboses. We report the case of a young woman with a right middle cerebral artery stroke following vaccination with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19. A diagnosis of VITT was made and platelet counts began to recover shortly after commencing treatment with argatroban, intravenous immunoglobulins and corticosteroids. On day 6 following admission, the patient deteriorated neurologically and decision made to proceed with decompressive hemicraniectomy. There were no perioperative complications and anticoagulation with argatroban was reinitiated on the first postoperative day.

VITT is a rare condition resembling auto-immune heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. All critical care staff should be aware of the rare link between vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 and VITT and the need to rapidly commence both anticoagulation, using heparin alternatives, and immunomodulation.
Neurotoxic snake bite in pregnancy
Authors: Wium Lizemarie
Published: June 2021

Neurotoxic snake bites may cause paralysis within 1–8 h. Appropriate management includes early and adequate volumes of antivenom as well as ventilatory support. This case study describes the management of a pregnant woman who was bitten on a farm in rural South Africa and transferred to an academic hospital, 300 km away. An approach to the management of snake bites in pregnancy is discussed as well as a review of the current known literature of venomous snakes and the use of antivenom in pregnancy. This report aims to encourage further reporting of snake bites in pregnancy.
Successful treatment with eculizumab in a patient with pregnancy-associated atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome
Authors: Duran Mehmet Nuri , Beyazit Fatma , Erbaş Mesut , Özkavak Onur , Acar Celal , Bakirdogen Serkan
Published: June 2021

Pregnancy‐associated atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome is a rare and potentially lethal complement-mediated disorder. It can mimic preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets syndrome. Thus, it can be hard to distinguish pregnancy‐associated atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome from other causes in peri/post-partum women presenting with features of microangiopathic haemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia and acute kidney injury. We present a case of a 35-year-old woman in her third pregnancy at 32 weeks’ gestation who underwent caesarean section due to fetal distress. She developed severe renal impairment, thrombocytopenia and neurologic symptoms within 24 hours after delivery. A diagnosis of pregnancy‐associated atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome was provided, and treatment with plasma therapy followed by eculizumab was initiated. A rapid improvement of both clinical and laboratory parameters was observed. This case demonstrates the significance of early initiation of anti-complement therapy to prevent irreversible renal damage and possible death in women with pregnancy‐associated atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome.
Evaluation of the short-term efficacy of local analgesic (lidocaine) and opioid analgesic (sufentanil) on patients with centrally mediated abdominal pain syndrome: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yang Hang , Chen Honglin , Hu Bing
Published: June 2021

Background:

Centrally mediated abdominal pain syndrome (CAPS) is characterized by continuous or frequently recurring abdominal pain and can result in functional loss across several life domains. The efficacy of the present management methods has not been established yet. We performed a prospective randomized controlled trial to explore the short-term efficacy of local analgesic (lidocaine) and opioid analgesic (sufentanil) in patients with CAPS.

Methods:

We consecutively enrolled 130 patients who met the Rome IV CAPS criteria and divided them into the sufentanil + lidocaine (S + L) group and sufentanil (S) group. Patients completed the pain rating scales, including the numeric rating scale (NRS) and verbal rating scale (VRS), 60 min before colonoscopy. All the patients were initially administered sufentanil. In the S + L group, we sprayed a 5 ml solution of lidocaine on the surface of ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid colon during colonoscope withdrawal, while 5 ml saline was sprayed in the S group. Follow up was performed 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months after colonoscopy, to complete the pain scaling.

Results:

A comparison of the NRS and VRS showed that there were no significant differences between the S + L and S groups and within each group ( p > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Local analgesic lidocaine and opioid analgesic sufentanil showed negative efficacy during short-term observation. The opioid receptor blocker sufentanil did not worsen symptoms in patients with CAPS after colonoscopy under general anesthesia in the short term. [chictr.org.cn, Chinese Clinical Trial Identifier, ChiCTR-IOR-16008187]
Diverse Applications of Sociological Imagination: A Qualitative Study of Service-Learning Mentoring
Authors: Atkins Laura C. , Grant Shelley B.
Published: June 2021

This project expands discussions regarding critical ways that students’ diverse backgrounds and experiences intertwine with service-learning and social justice. Educators need to empower the next generation to explore their views, apply their skills, and engage with social issues. The research intersects with complex conversations about students’ perspectives regarding media representations, justice system responses, and views of at-risk youth. The project spanned four semesters of a sociology of media and crime course with service-learning mentoring. Qualitative reflection data drawn from 104 participating student mentors provided insights into how service-learners’ unique personal histories and sociological imaginations inform their views of youth, the mentoring experience, and social justice. The findings focus attention upon diversity within classrooms and expand the conversation about social justice praxis and service-learning pedagogy. Through reflexivity, the researchers consider their own social justice and service-learning practices, and add to the call for greater reflexivity within community-engaged sociology classrooms.
Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV) Encephalitis Mimicking Acute Stroke in Michigan: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Rameez Fnu , Walsh Meggen , Wees Nabil , Ali Rushna , Min Jiangyong , Tank Evan , Khan Muhib
Published: June 2021

Jamestown canyon virus (JCV) is an arbovirus and is an under-recognized cause of mosquito-borne viral encephalitis. In this report we present a patient who presented with focal neurological deficits. Patient was initially evaluated for stroke. However, leptomeningeal enhancement on MRI and CSF studies were concerning for viral encephalitis. Brain biopsy and CSF sample from surgical site was positive for JCV IgM antibodies. Patients presenting with concern for viral encephalitis in endemic areas should undergo antibody testing for JCV to guide appropriate treatment.
Controversies and Contemporary Management of Orbital Floor Fractures
Authors: Patel Shivam , Shokri Tom , Ziai Kasra , Lighthall Jessyka G.
Published: June 2021

Substantial controversy exists regarding the timing of intervention and management of patients with orbital floor fractures. Recent advances in computer-aided technology, including the use of 3-dimensional printing, intraoperative navigational imaging, and the use of novel implants, have allowed for improvement in prospective management modalities. As such, this article aims to review the indications and timing of repair, surgical approaches, materials used for repair, and contemporary adjuncts to repair. Indications for orbital floor fracture repair remain controversial as many of these fractures heal without intervention or adverse sequelae. Intraoperative navigation and imaging, as well as endoscopic guidance, can improve visualization of defects mitigating implant positioning errors, thereby reducing the need for secondary corrective procedures. Patient-specific implants may be constructed to fit the individual patient’s anatomy using the preoperative CT dataset and mirroring the contralateral unaffected side and have been shown to improve pre-operative efficiency and minimize postoperative complications. With increased data, we can hope to form evidence-based indications for using particular biomaterials and the criteria for orbital defect characteristics, which may be best addressed by a specific surgical approach.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Ankle Osteoarthritis: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Paget Liam D.A. , Tol Johannes L. , Kerkhoffs Gino M.M.J. , Reurink Gustaaf
Published: June 2021

Objective

Ankle osteoarthritis (OA) has a prevalence of 3.4% in the general population of which 70% to 78% is posttraumatic, affecting younger patients with a longer projected life span compared with hip and knee OA. The current literature reports the physical and mental quality of life (QoL) of patients with ankle OA, to be similar to end-stage hip OA, end-stage kidney disease and digestive heart failure. However, the QoL of ankle OA patients has not yet been determined compared with a matched control group representing the general population. Our aim is to determine the physical and mental QoL compared with a matched control group.

Design

The Physical and Mental Component Summaries of the Short Form–36 of 100 patients with ankle OA were compared with 91 age- and gender-matched controls. This case-control study is a substudy of the PRIMA trial, in which the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma injections for ankle OA is determined.

Results

A clinically relevant difference was found for both the Physical ( P=0.003; 95% CI −6.7 to −1.3) and Mental Component Summary scores ( P < 0.001; 95% CI −10 to −6). Patients with ankle OA had a median of 45 points (matched controls 52 points) and 43 points (matched controls 53 points) for the Physical and Mental Component summary scores, respectively.

Conclusions

Patients with ankle OA had a clinically relevant poorer mental and physical QoL compared with matched controls from the general population. Furthermore, the physical QoL of patients with ankle OA from younger age categories was affected more than those in older age categories.
A case of chronic cough due to sarcoidosis
Authors: Low Qin Jian , Misni Mohd Nadzri Bin , Cheo Seng Wee , Ng Khai Lip , Muhammad Noorul Afidza
Published: June 2021

Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic, chronic granulomatous disease of unknown aetiology that often affects the lungs. Diagnosis and treatment of sarcoidosis can be strenuous. Patients may be asymptomatic or experience cough, dyspnoea, fatigue, unintentional weight loss or night sweats. Computed tomography is valuable in the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. The typical histopathological lesion of sarcoidosis is granuloma without caseous necrosis in the involved organs. As tuberculosis is endemic in our region, clinicians should not forget this great mimicker. The cornerstone of treatment of sarcoidosis is corticosteroids but newer agents such as steroid-sparing agents and biological agents are available. We report a case of pulmonary sarcoidosis presenting with chronic cough.
Neglected cardiovascular risk factors: Relationship of anxiety and depression with percutaneous coronary angioplasty
Authors: Hadi Mohd Firdaus bin , Siew Kelvin Shenq Woei , Mohd Firdaus Mohd Al-Baqlish , Mohammad Aidid Edre bin , Kong Sylvia Wei Wei , Zainal Abidin Imran Bin
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of mortality in Malaysia. Psychological risk factors are associated with detrimental outcomes in CAD. Our study aimed to evaluate procedural anxiety and depression levels among subjects who underwent coronary angioplasty.

Methods:

A single-centre prospective cohort study was conducted on patients electively admitted to a tertiary hospital in Malaysia for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) over a half-year period. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ5D) Health Questionnaire were used to evaluate subjects’ psychological statuses. The EQ Visual Analogue Scale was used for the global assessment of their health.

Results:

The analysis included 65 patients with a mean age of 63 years from a predominately educated population ( n=54; 83.1%). Before the PCI procedure, female sex was found to be protective against depression, with an odds ratio (ORs) of 0.29 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.08–1.03). A high level of education was protective against anxiety (OR=0.21; 95% CI 0.06–0.83). After the PCI, females were more likely to be depressed (OR=3.89; 95% CI 1.13–13.37), and those of Malay ethnicity were more likely to be anxious (OR=4.2; 95% CI 1.03–17.07). Using the HADS, subjects were significantly less anxious and depressed (pre-PCI: median (IQR) score=4 (7.0)); post-PCI: median (IQR) score=3 (5.0), p=0.02), measured by the HADS. Using the EQ5D, subjects had an improved mean VAS score (post-PCI: 75±14.9; pre-PCI: 68±12.6; p<0.05).

Conclusions:

PCI may predispose patients with CAD to psychological stressors. Female patients and those of Malay ethnicity are more likely to experience psychological stress. Being highly educated is protective against such stress.
Induction of osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells on 3D polyester-based scaffolds solely by subphysiological fluidic stimulation in a laminar flow bioreactor
Authors: Yamada Shuntaro , Yassin Mohammed Ahmed , Schwarz Thomas , Hansmann Jan , Mustafa Kamal
Published: June 2021

The fatal determination of bone marrow mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (BMSC) is closely associated with mechano-environmental factors in addition to biochemical clues. The aim of this study was to induce osteogenesis in the absence of chemical stimuli using a custom-designed laminar flow bioreactor. BMSC were seeded onto synthetic microporous scaffolds and subjected to the subphysiological level of fluid flow for up to 21 days. During the perfusion, cell proliferation was significantly inhibited. There were also morphological changes, with F-actin polymerisation and upregulation of ROCK1. Notably, in BMSC subjected to flow, mRNA expression of osteogenic markers was significantly upregulated and RUNX2 was localised in the nuclei. Further, under perfusion, there was greater deposition of collagen type 1 and calcium onto the scaffolds. The results confirm that an appropriate level of fluid stimuli preconditions BMSC towards the osteoblastic lineage on 3D scaffolds in the absence of chemical stimulation, which highlights the utility of flow bioreactors in bone tissue engineering.
Forearm muscle mitochondrial capacity and resting oxygen uptake: Relationship to symptomatic fatigue in persons with multiple sclerosis
Authors: DePauw Elizabeth M , Rouhani Mitra , Flanagan Aidan M , Ng Alexander V
Published: June 2021

Background

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Whether mitochondrial alterations are a function of ambulatory dysfunction or are of a non-ambulatory systemic nature is unclear.

Objective

To compare oxidative capacity, and rest muscle oxygen consumption (mVO2) in the upper limb of persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) to a control group (CON), whereby an upper limb would be comparatively independent of ambulation or deconditioning.

Methods

Near infra-red spectroscopy was used to measure oxidative capacity of the wrist flexors in PwMS (n = 16) and CON (n = 13). Oxidative capacity was indicated by the time constant (TC) of mVO2 recovery following brief wrist flexion contractions. Measurements included well-being, depression, symptomatic fatigue, disability, handgrip strength, cognition, and functional endurance. Analysis was by T-tests and Pearson correlations with p ≤ 0.05. Data are mean (SD).

Results

TC of mVO2 recovery was slower in PwMS (MS = 47(14) sec, CON = 36(11) sec; p = 0.03). No significant correlations were found between oxidative capacity and any other measures. Rest mVO2 was not different between groups, but correlated with symptomatic fatigue (r = 0.694, p = 0.003) and strength (0.585, p = 0.017) in PwMS.

Conclusion

Oxidative capacity was lower in the wrist flexors of PwMS, possibly indicating a systemic component of the disease. Within PwMS, rest mVO2 was associated with symptomatic fatigue.
Community contexts, socioeconomic status, and meritocratic beliefs and perceptions in China
Authors: Li Angran , Hu Anning
Published: June 2021

Prior empirical research on the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and meritocratic attitudes has yielded inconsistent findings. This study contributes to the existing literature by examining the heterogeneous relationship between SES and meritocratic beliefs and perceptions across community socioeconomic contexts in China. Using nationally representative data from the China Family Panel Studies, the results show that individual SES is positively related to support for meritocratic beliefs, but negatively associated with perceptions of meritocracy. Moreover, SES disparities in meritocratic beliefs are more salient in socioeconomically disadvantaged and unequal communities, where residents with relatively higher SES are more likely to hold meritocratic beliefs. In contrast, SES gaps in meritocratic perceptions are more significant in socioeconomically advantaged and homogeneous communities, where individuals with relatively lower SES are more likely to perceive the allocation of resources as meritocratic. These findings provide theoretical insights for understanding how self-interest and system justification theories may jointly explain social origin disparities in public attitudes about meritocracy.
Clinical features and corresponding immune function status of recurrent viral polymerase chain reaction positivity in patients with COVID-19 : A meta- analysis and systematic review
Authors: Ren Xingxiang , Wang Xiankun , Ge Ziruo , Cui Shuping , Chen Zhihai
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was declared a global pandemic in March 2020. Since then, several studies have found COVID-19 patients with recurrent viral polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positivity.

Methods:

On May 6, 2021, an exhaustive literature search of the Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure databases, Embase, Wan Fang Data, VIP database, Sinomed database, BioRxiv, MedRxiv, and Research Square was conducted to find describing the laboratory indicators of recurrent and non-recurrent viral PCR positivity in patients with COVID-19. The data were statistically analyzed using STATA version 15.0.

Results:

In total, 22 studies—comprising 5154 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases—were included in the analyses. Patients with less severe COVID-19 illness (i.e. those clinically classified as mild or common-type) seemed to exhibit recurrent PCR positivity more commonly than patients with more severe illness (i.e. those classified as severe or critical). There were also significant differences between the two groups in terms of the rates of headaches and dizziness, in addition to the levels of aspartate aminotransferase, C reactive protein, interleukin-6, and lactate dehydrogenase. Further, there were variations in the ratio of CD4+ T cells/CD8+ T cells on admission to the hospital.

Conclusion:

In comparison to COVID-19 patients with non-recurrent viral PCR positivity, patients with recurrent virus PCR positivity seem to experience more severe immune function suppression upon hospital admission.
Mental Stress, Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms and Interleuken-6 Level among Healthcare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Amer Shaimaa A. A. M. , Fouad Ahmed Mahmoud , El-Samahy Mohamed , Hashem Asmaa A. , saati Abdullah A. , Sarhan Anas A. , Anani Maha
Published: June 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and its relationship to stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms among healthcare workers (HCWs) compared to controls during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A total of 80 HCWs in Suez Canal University Hospital in Ismailia, Egypt, and 80 controls were analyzed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS 21) questionnaire was used, and serum IL-6 level was determined in both groups.

Results

IL-6 levels were high in 81.2% (65) of HCWs compared to 36% (45) of controls ( P < .05). The DASS score was higher in participants with high IL-6 levels (>3 ng/mL) than in those with mild to moderate levels ( P < .05). The regression model revealed that the type of work as a healthcare staff, irregular or night shift, and stress were predictors of increased IL-6 levels among the studied sample ( P < .05) (odds ratio = 20.30, 2.44, and 2.04, respectively).

Conclusion

The IL-6 level and DASS score were higher in HCWs compared to those in controls during the COVID-19 pandemic. The type of work as a healthcare staff, stress, and irregular or night shift were predictors of increased IL-6 levels.
No differences in clinical outcomes and cartilage repair between opening wedge and closed wedge high tibial osteotomies at short-term follow-up: A retrospective case series analysis
Authors: Akamatsu Tomotaka , Kumagai Ken , Yamada Shunsuke , Nejima Shuntaro , Sotozawa Masaichi , Ogino Takahiro , Inaba Yutaka
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to assess differences in clinical outcomes and postoperative cartilage repair between opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) and closed wedge HTO (CWHTO) for medial osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee.

Methods:

A total of 90 knees of 76 patients who underwent OWHTO (45 knees of 40 patients) and CWHTO (45 knees of 36 patients) was followed-up for 2 years. Cartilage repair at the medial compartment was arthroscopically classified into the following stages: Stage 1 (no reparative change); Stage 2 (partial coverage with white cartilaginous tissue); and Stage 3 (full coverage with white cartilaginous tissue). Clinical outcomes were assessed using Knee Society scores, and radiographic assessment was carried out by anatomical femorotibial angle (aFTA).

Results:

Regarding preoperative OA grade, varus alignment, and function score, CWHTO patients showed more advanced OA status than OWHTO patients. Knee scores and function scores were significantly improved after surgery with both HTO procedures (P < 0.05), with no significant difference between the two procedures. Cartilage repair of stage 2 or 3 was found in more than 80% of the subjects in the medial femoral condyle and more than 60% in the medial tibial condyle. However, there were no significant differences between the two HTO procedures. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that preoperative International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grade was the only factor affecting cartilage repair.

Conclusions:

CWHTO improved clinical outcomes and cartilage status as much as OWHTO. Although the effects of cartilage repair on clinical outcomes are unknown, HTO is an effective treatment option even for severe medial OA of the knee.
Do Share Repurchases Distort Stock Prices? Evidence from the United States and Malaysia
Authors: Chee Chong-Meng , Razak Nazrul Hisyam bin Ab , Noordin Bany Ariffin bin Amin
Published: June 2021

Heavy share buyback years after the global finance crisis 2008–2009 drew criticism from scholars and financial press that share repurchases were being used by firms to manipulate their stock prices. This paper examines whether a greater firm’s repurchase intensity distorts stock prices reflecting to information. We analyse 2 sets of unbalanced panel data that contain a sample of 337 US and another sample of 167 Malaysian repurchasing firms between 2012 and 2016. Contrary to the criticism, we find that a greater firms’ share buyback intensity in the USA stimulates faster incorporation of information in price and results in more efficient stock prices. The main findings hold true and are robust when an alternative measure of share repurchase intensity was used. The findings of US sample support the notion that share repurchase serves as a signalling tool and price support to promote more efficient stock prices. We also find no strong evidence supporting the notion that shares repurchased by Malaysian firms distort stock prices.

JEL Classifications: G10, G14, G35
Management of Vertical Sternal Fracture Nonunion in Elite-Level Athletes
Authors: Bardos Andrea , Sabhrawal Sanjeeve , Tytherleigh-Strong Graham
Published: June 2021

Background:

Sternal fractures are rare, and they can be treated nonoperatively. Vertical sternal fractures have rarely been reported.

Purpose:

To describe the management and surgical treatment of a series of elite-level athletes who presented with symptomatic nonunions of a vertical sternal fracture.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Patients with an established symptomatic nonunion of a vertical sternal fracture, as diagnosed by computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), underwent open reduction and internal fixation using autologous bone graft and cannulated lag screws. The patients were assessed preoperatively and at the final follow-up using the Rockwood sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) score; Constant score; and shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) scores. Bony union was confirmed on postoperative CT scan.

Results:

Five patients (4 men and 1 woman) were included; all were national- or international-level athletes (rugby, judo, show-jumping, and MotoGP). The mean age at surgery was 23.4 years (range, 19-27 years), the mean time from injury to referral was 13.6 months (range, 10-17 months), and the mean time from injury to surgery was 15.8 months (range, 11-20 months). The mean follow-up was 99.4 months (range, 25-168 months). There was a significant improvement after surgery in the mean Rockwood SCJ score (from 12.6 to 14.8 [ P < .05]), Constant score (from 84 to 96.4 [ P < .05]; 80% met the minimal clinically important difference [MCID] of 10.4 points), and QuickDASH (from 6.8 to 0.98 [ P < .05]; 0% met the MCID of 15.9 points). Four of the patients were able to return to sport at their preinjury level, and 1 patient retired for nonmedical reasons. All of the fractures had united on the postoperative CT scan. There were no postoperative complications.

Conclusion:

Vertical fractures of the sternum are very rare and tend to behave clinically like an avulsion fracture injury to the capsuloligamentous structure of the inferior SCJ. The requirement of advanced imaging to diagnose this injury means that the actual incidence and natural history are not known. For high-demand athletes, early identification, surgical reduction, and fixation are likely to achieve the best outcome.
Who Are America’s Teachers of the Year?
Authors: Redding Christopher , Myers Ted
Published: June 2021

The Teacher of the Year (TOY) program is the longest-standing teacher recognition program in the United States. The purpose of this study is to describe the characteristics of state and national TOY awardees and the schools in which they teach. To accomplish this aim, we develop a new data set including the characteristics of all TOY awardees and their schools from 1988 to 2019. Using descriptive and regression analysis, we find that TOY awardees are most likely to teach at the high school level, while the most common subjects taught were elementary education, English language arts, natural sciences, and, for National TOY awardees, social studies. They also have a greater probability of being selected from schools with a smaller fraction of students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, and higher student enrollments. We discuss how these differences may impede the TOY program’s efforts to amplify teachers’ voice in education policymaking.
“Can Someone as Young as You Really Feel That Much Pain?” – A Survey on How People With Fibromyalgia Experience Healthcare in Sweden
Authors: Hasselroth Rebecka , Björling Gunilla , Faag Carina , Bose Catarina Nahlén
Published: June 2021

Background

Research show that fibromyalgia has low credibility in healthcare, leading to poor treatment, lack of knowledge and disinterest. Therefore, people with fibromyalgia feel frustration, fear, anxiety and disappointment. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of people with fibromyalgia in their encounters with healthcare personnel in Sweden. Method: A cross-sectional design, where 409 people with fibromyalgia answered an anonymous online patient-reported experience measure, developed specific for the study, with six closed questions and one open-ended question. Descriptive statistics were analysed by response frequencies. Correlation analysis were performed between demographic and clinical variables with the answers from the closed questions. Free-text answers were analysed with content analysis. Results: A third experienced the treatment as bad (34%) and that they were not being taken seriously (30.5%). Almost half (47%) always or mostly felt fear of seeking healthcare related to fibromyalgia and that the health care personnel did not understand their diagnosis (46%). The majority (54%) experienced that the health care personnel did not understand how fibromyalgia affected them or how they could help them. The findings were confirmed in the free-text answers that were categorized into: Scepticism and disregard, Ignorance and disinterest and Professionalism and empathy. There were positive significant correlations between age and five of the questions (ρ = .105–.181, p < .05–p < .01), indicating that lower age is correlated with a worse experience. Furthermore, the duration of fibromyalgia showed a significant correlation with feeling afraid of seeking healthcare because of fibromyalgia (ρ = .144, p < .01), the shorter duration, the greater was the fear of seeking healthcare. Conclusion: As a third of patients with fibromyalgia had bad experiences with healthcare, especially younger patients, knowledge about fibromyalgia needs to be increased and the patients should be taken seriously and treated respectfully, as well as given adequate support.
Personalpolitik im Lichte der Arbeitsmarkttheorie und -politik — Einführung
Authors: Wächter Hartmut
Published: June 2021

Die wissenschaftliche Beschäftigung mit Problemen des Personalwesens (oder der Personalwirtschaft) ist an den deutschen Hochschulen einhergegangen mit der verhaltenswissenschaftlichen Öffnung der Betriebswirtschaftslehre. Diese Orientierung bleibt sicherlich auch in Zukunft für eine praxisbezogene Ausbildung und für die Forschung ein unverzichtbarer Bezug. Die Hinwendung zur und Bevorzugung der verhaltenswissenschaftlichen Ausrichtung des Personalwesens enthält sicherlich auch Elemente der Enttäuschung über die ökonomische Theorie, sei es die Mikroökonomie allgemein, sei es die Gutenberg'sche Rezeption.
Segmentationstendenzen im Management?
Authors: Schirmer Frank
Published: June 2021

Das “Management” als Vertreter von Kapitalinteressen auf betrieblicher Ebene der industriellen Beziehungen wird in weiten Teilen der Organisationstheorie, betriebswirtschaftlichen Organisationslehre und Industriesoziologie - meist implizit - als Interessenblock konzeptualisiert, der einheitlich an Kapitalinteressen orientiert ist. Die Realitätsnähe dieser Vorstellung ist allerdings zu bezweifeln.

Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird in Analogie zum Konzept der Arbeitsmarktsegmentation das Konzept der “Managementsegmentation” eingeführt und als gedankliches Modell fruchtbar gemacht, um Interessendifferenzierungen im Management zu verorten, von denen angenommen wird, daß sie relativ stabil sind und/oder zunehmend an Stabilität gewinnen (etwa durch die Einführung von Sprecherausschüssen für leitende Angestellte) und das Gefüge betrieblicher Arbeitsbeziehungen berühren bzw. verändern.

Der konzeptionelle und vor allem der empirische Forschungsstand zu dieser Fragestellung müssen insgesamt als sehr rudimentär eingestuft werden.
Personal-Controlling - Ein Ansatz zur Effizienzsteigerung im Personal-Management
Authors: Lurse Klaus
Published: June 2021

Nach einer Erläuterung des Begriffs Personal-Controlling wird seine Bedeutung für ein effizientes Personal-Management herausgestellt. In einem dritten Teil werden Ansatzpunkte eines konsequenten Personal-Controllings skizziert. Ein personalwirtschaftliches Ziel- und Indikatorensystem bildet das Kernstück des vorliegenden Aufsatzes. Im Anschluß daran werden ein Zeitraster von Controlling-Aktivitäten sowie Instrumente des Personal-Controllings kurz vorgestellt. Der Artikel schließt mit Überlegungen zur organisatorischen einbindung und zur Frühwarnfunktion des Personal-Controllings.
Personal-Controlling und strategisches Personalmanagement
Authors: Elšik Wolfgang
Published: June 2021

Nach einer kurzen Darstellung der beiden Konzepte Personal-Controlling und strategisches Personalmanagement (Kap.1) beginnt die Analyse des Verhältnisses von Personal-Controlling und strategischem Personalmanagement mit der Grundfrage, welche(s) Problem(e) durch diese beiden Konzepte bearbeitet werden soll(en) (Kap. 2.1). Damit eng verbunden ist der Zielaspekt (Kap. 12). Als weitere Vergleichskriterien werden die zu erfüllenden Auf gaben (funktionaler Aspekt, Kap. 2.3), die dabei eingesetzten Instrumente (instrumentaler Aspekt, Kap. 2.4) sowie Fragen der Implementierung (Kap. 15) herangezogen. In einer Schlußbetrachtung werden die Ergebnisse zusammengefaßt (Kap.3).
Simultane Strategie- und Personalentwicklung
Authors: Staehle Wolfgang H.
Published: June 2021

Präskriptive Strategiekonzepte mit linearen Phaseneinteilungen von der Zielformulierung bis hin zur Strategieimplementation und Personalanpassung folgen dem Entscheidungsmodell rationaler Wahl Sowohl empirische Untersuchungen über das faktische unternehmerische Verhalten als auch neuere planungstheoretische Arbeiten berichten dagegen von einem eher beschränktrationalen, inkrementalen Entscheidungsverhalten und einem wechselseitig vernetzten Beziehungsgeflecht zwischen Strategieformulierung und -implementation. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt ein Plädoyer dar für eine simultane und interaktive Entwicklung von Strategie, Struktur und Personal.