bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Distal Fascicle of the Anterior Inferior Tibiofibular Ligament: A Potential Landmark for Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Wang Anhong , Zhao Feng , Shi Weili , Lian Chenyu , Xie Xing , Jing Lizhong , Liu Ziming , Zhang Keying , Jiang Dong , Guo Qinwei
Published: October 2023

Background:

A reliable landmark and precise distances from the ligament attachments are needed for lateral ankle stabilization surgery. The distal fascicle of the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) has been used to locate the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) or calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) centers on the fibula. However, there is no anatomic study to validate the distal fascicle of the AITFL as a landmark of lateral ankle ligament stabilization, and more importantly, the exact distances from the ATFL or CFL attachments to the distal fascicle of the AITFL are unknown.

Methods:

Sixteen frozen cadaveric specimens (8 paired specimens) with no previous history of ankle injury were used in this study. Whether the distal fascicle of AITFL was present in each specimen was confirmed. Then, the distances from the most distal insertion of the AITFL’s distal fascicle to the footprint centers of the ATFL and CFL on the fibula were measured. All measurements were performed by 2 observers, and the intraobserver and interobserver reliabilities were analyzed by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results:

The distal fascicle of the AITFL was found in all specimens (100%). The mean distance from the most distal insertion of the AITFL’s distal fascicle to the footprint centers of the ATFL, CFL, and the intersection center of the 2 ligaments on the fibula was 6.0 to 7.1 mm, 11.5 to 13.2 mm, and 9.0 to 10.0 mm, respectively. Excellent interobserver and intraobserver agreement (all ICCs > 0.9, P < .01) was shown in the anatomic measurements of these distances.

Conclusion:

In this cadaveric study, we found that the distal fascicle was a constant structure of the AITFL in the lateral ankle. The distances from the most distal insertion of the AITFL’s distal fascicle to the ligamentous footprint centers were reliable and may be used to identify the origins of the ATFL and CFL for lateral ankle ligament reconstruction.

Clinical Relevance:

This anatomic study validates the AITFL’s distal fascicle as a potential landmark and, more importantly, determines the range of distances from AITFL’s distal fascicle to the attachment centers of lateral ankle ligaments by anatomic measurements. The data may be used to identify the ATFL and CFL for lateral ankle stabilization surgery and become particularly valuable for endoscopic or arthroscopic techniques.
Nicotine Dependence and Rates of Postoperative Complications in Achilles Tendon Repair
Authors: DeShazo Sterling , Pescatore Sabrina M. , Panchbhavi Vinod K.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Nicotine is a modifiable risk factor that is well demonstrated to cause deleterious effects on tendon healing and overall health. Individuals that have a dependence on nicotine may be at an elevated risk for numerous postoperative complications when compared to nondependent patients. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the complications postoperatively between nicotine- and non–nicotine-dependent Achilles tendon repairs.

Methods:

The global health network database, TriNetX, was used to access and analyze deidentified patient information. Two cohorts were identified for the purposes of this study. Cohort A was defined as patients who had an Achilles tendon repair ( Current Procedural Terminology [ CPT]: 27650 or CPT: 27654) and had a dependence to nicotine ( International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, code: F17). Cohort B was defined as patients who had an Achilles tendon repair but did not have a dependence to nicotine. Data were gathered from health care organizations from August 21, 2000, to August 21, 2023. All postoperative complications were analyzed between 1 and 90 days after the Achilles tendon repair.

Results:

A total of 2117 nicotine-dependent patients were matched with 18 102 non–nicotine-dependent patients. After propensity matching for age at event, ethnicity, race, sex, and type 2 diabetes mellitus, nicotine-dependent patients who underwent Achilles tendon repair experienced higher associated risk for numerous postoperative complications. When compared to nondependent patients, nicotine-dependent patients had increased risk for wound disruption (risk ratio [RR] 1.55, 95% CI 1.11-2.16) and infection following a procedure (RR 1.64, 95% CI 1.09-2.47) within 90 days post Achilles tendon repair.

Conclusion:

In this database study using propensity matching, nicotine-dependent patients who underwent Achilles tendon repair were correlated with an increased associated risk for wound disruption and infection after a procedure than their non–nicotine-dependent counterpart.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Outcomes After Proximal Medial Gastrocnemius Recession and Stretching vs Stretching as Treatment of Chronic Plantar Fasciitis at 6-Year Follow-up
Authors: Riiser Martin Okelsrud , Husebye Elisabeth Ellingsen , Hellesnes Jan , Molund Marius
Published: October 2023

Background:

Evidence from prospective short-term studies suggest that proximal medial gastrocnemius recession is a safe and efficient procedure to treat chronic plantar fasciitis resistant to nonoperative treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes of proximal medial gastrocnemius recession and stretching compared to a stretching exercise protocol for patients with chronic plantar fasciitis and an isolated gastrocnemius contracture (IGC).

Methods:

Forty patients with plantar fasciitis lasting more than 1 year were prospectively randomized to a home stretching exercise program only, or to proximal medial gastrocnemius recession in addition to the stretching program. Clinical and functional data in this study were obtained at baseline and 6-year follow-up. The main outcome was the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score. Secondary outcomes were the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, the Manchester Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOxFQ), ankle dorsiflexion, and Achilles complex performance.

Results:

Thirty-three of 40 patients completed the 6-year follow-up. Seven patients had crossed over from nonoperative treatment to operative treatment. At 6 years, the operative group demonstrated significantly better outcomes with AOFAS (88.9 vs 78.6, P = .012), for pain measured by VAS (2.5 vs 5.5, P < .001) and with the MOxFQ total score (24.4 vs 45.9, P = .05) (per protocol analysis excluding crossovers). No between-group differences were observed for ankle dorsiflexion or Achilles complex performance at 6 years.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates that the improved function and reduced level of pain by proximal medial gastrocnemius recession and stretching is better compared to stretching alone after 6 years of follow-up for patients with chronic plantar fasciitis and a concomitant isolated gastrocnemius contracture.

Level of Evidence:

Level I, randomized controlled trial.
Vibration of protein microtubules within the elastic medium along with electromagnetic and gravitational forces by using orthotropic elastic shell model
Authors: Safeer Muhammad , Taj Muhammad , Iqbal Muhammad Asad
Published: October 2023

In the present study, author analyses the vibration of protein microtubules and its interaction with the surrounding elastic medium and electromagnetic and gravitational forces. Protein microtubules are dynamic Nano fibers found inside the cell’s cytoplasm, strengthening the cytoskeleton and gives shape to the cell. When the cell undergoes deformation microtubules vibrate. Understanding the vibration of these Nano fibers within the elastic medium and along with the body forces as electromagnetic and gravitational forces is crucial. The main purpose of this study is to explore the effects of surrounding elastic medium and electromagnetic and gravitational forces on the vibration of protein microtubules. The findings reveal that the effects of surrounding medium and the external influences on the vibration of these Nano fibers are significant. The study presents the numerical values in the form of table associated with microtubules in various conditions: free, embedded, and in the presence of electromagnetic and gravitational forces.
An Evaluation of Zebrafish, an Emerging Model Analyzing the Effects of Toxicants on Cognitive and Neuromuscular Function
Authors: Clevenger Truth , Paz Jakob , Stafford Andrew , Amos Deborah , Hayes A. Wallace
Published: October 2023

An emerging alternative to conventional animal models in toxicology research is the zebrafish. Their accelerated development, regenerative capacity, transparent physical appearance, ability to be genetically manipulated, and ease of housing and care make them feasible and efficient experimental models. Nonetheless, their most esteemed asset is their 70% (+) genetic similarity with the human genome, which allows the model to be used in a variety of clinically relevant studies. With these attributes, we propose the zebrafish is an excellent model for analyzing cognitive and neuromuscular responses when exposed to toxicants. Neurocognition can be readily analyzed using visual discrimination, memory and learning, and social behavior testing. Neuromuscular function can be analyzed using techniques such as the startle response, assessment of activity level, and evaluation of critical swimming speed. Furthermore, selectively mutated zebrafish is another novel application of this species in behavioral and pharmacological studies, which can be exploited in toxicological studies. There is a critical need in biomedical research to discover ethical and cost-effective methods to develop new products, including drugs. Through mutagenesis, zebrafish models have become key in meeting this need by advancing the field in numerous areas of biomedical research.
CLPB Deficiency Associated Neonatal Cavitating Leukoencephalopathy: A Potential Pathomechanism Underlying Neurologic Disorder
Authors: Darouich Sihem , Darouich Samia , Gtari Dorsaf , Bellamine Houda
Published: October 2023

Caseinolytic peptidase B homolog (CLPB) is a mitochondrial protein which is highly expressed in brain. Its deficiency may be associated with severe neonatal encephalopathy. This report describes a case of fatal neonatal encephalopathy associated with biallelic stop-gain mutation in CLPB (NM_001258392.3:c.1159C>T/p.Arg387*). Neurologic disorder encompasses pre- and post-natal features including polyhydramnios, intrauterine growth restriction, respiratory insufficiency, lethargy, excessive startle reflex, generalized hypertonia, and epileptic seizures. Brain macroscopic examination demonstrates frontal severe periventricular cystic leukoencephalopathy, along with mild ex-vacuo tri-ventricular dilatation. The most striking immunohistopathologic features are striato-thalamic neurodegeneration and deep white matter loss associated with strong reactive astrogliosis. This report supports that CLPB deficiency should be considered among the neurometabolic disorders associated with severe prenatal-onset neurologic impairment that may result from cystic leukoencephalopathy.
Immediate effect of anti-VEGF injections on optic nerve head: Correlation between intraocular pressure and anatomical peripapillary changes
Authors: Viggiano Pasquale , Buonamassa Rosa , Grassi Maria Oliva , Boscia Giacomo , Borrelli Enrico , Landini Luca , Evangelista Federica , Malerba Maria Giovanna , Alessio Giovanni , Boscia Francesco
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study was designed to investigate retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and radial peripapillary capillaries (RPC) changes on optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography and OCT thickness alterations associated with acutely increased intraocular pressure after intravitreal injections.

Methods

This observational clinical study was conducted on 35 eyes (35 patients) with treatment-naïve age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and type 1 or type 2 MNV were enrolled. All patients underwent anti-vascular endothelial grow factor (VEGF) intravitreal injections with 0.05-mL aflibercept (2 mg) between January 2022 and October 2022. Peripapillary OCT angiography perfusion density, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, and intraocular pressure (IOP) were measured before and immediately after intravitreal injections. In particular, the analysis was performed at the following visits: (T0) 5 to 15 min before the injection of aflibercept; (T1) 2 to 5 min after the injection of aflibercept. Paired t-test was used to compare pre-injection and post-injection values.

Results

The mean baseline IOP (T0) value was 17.26 ± 2.4 mmHg and the immediate post-injection IOP (T1) mean value was 34.7 ± 11.50 mmHg (P < 0.01). The mean global RNFL thickness before and immediately after the injection was 100.9 ± 18.8 m and 98.6 ± 17.4 m (P = 0.001). Furthermore, the topographical RNFL analysis showed significant thickness reduction of the nasal and inferior sectors after the procedure when compared to T0 (P = 0.046 and P = 0.001). On the contrary, the mean RCP density changes at T1 did not reach statistically significant (P = 0.636). Furthermore, we found a significant negative correlation between the retinal nerve fiber layer global thickness and the IOP changes (Pearson's correlation = −0.126; P = 0.031). In particular, the nasal RNFL region showed a significant negative correlations with IOP values (Pearson's correlation = −0.198, P = 0,046).

Conclusions

We reported acute IOP changes that are associated with reduced RNFL thickness in a group of patients undergoing intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF drugs for neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Moreover, topographical sub-analysis revealed that the nasal RNFL region is most prone to IOP fluctuations. This finding may explain the sudden visual acuity change in patients immediately after injection and may sustain injuries to optic nerve head structures producing glaucomatous damage.
Assessment and safety of the new esthesiometer BRILL: Comparison with the Cochet-Bonnet Esthesiometer
Authors: Merayo-Lloves Jesús , Gómez Martín Carmen , Lozano-Sanroma Javier , Renedo Laguna Concepción
Published: October 2023

Background

Corneal sensitivity can decrease by several ocular conditions, such as dry eye or refractive surgery, which favor ocular epithelial lesions and is measured using an esthesiometer. The study's primary objective was to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of the non-contact esthesiometer BRILL, which delivers air pulses to the corneal surface to assess corneal sensitivity.

Methods

A single-center, prospective, controlled pilot study was carried out in adult patients with healthy eyes and or with pathology. Corneal sensitivity measurements were made in triplicate for both eyes at three consecutive visits. The esthesiometer BRILL was used in all visits, and on the last visit, the contact esthesiometer Cochet-Bonnet was also used. The results of both devices were compared by transforming them into force values.

Results

54 subjects with a mean age of 50.43 (SD 16.55, interval 18–87), 77.78% women, were included. Comparing the forces applied by both esthesiometers in the healthy eyes, in the eyes with pathology in all the groups, and in the dry eyes showed significant differences, p = 0.03603, p = 0.00614, and p = 0.0001, respectively.

Conclusion

The BRILL esthesiometer proved to be an effective and safe tool for non-contact assessment of corneal sensitivity with operator-independent repeatability. The measurements had a good agreement and comparable range with the Cochet-Bonet aesthesiometer measurements in healthy and dry eyes but with no interchangeable values. This portable device can help ophthalmologists and optometrists to diagnose eye pathologies that cause decreased corneal sensitivity and to assess the efficacy of therapy and disease progression.
The transformation of ball games as pedagogic discourse within physical education teacher education
Authors: Mustell Jan , Geidne Susanna , Barker Dean
Published: October 2023

Scholars have long questioned the impact of teacher education programmes. Persistent claims are that pre-service teachers have fixed ideas about pedagogy when they enter training and that they become enculturated once in the profession. Within physical education (PE), similar concerns have been raised with respect to ball games. Research suggests that pre-service PE teachers typically have substantial experience of ball sports and find it difficult to implement non-traditional ball games pedagogies when they enter schools. Against this background, the aim of the study is to explore how pre-service teachers recontextualise ball games as pedagogic discourse in their transitions from university to school placement. Bernstein's pedagogic device and pedagogic discourse are employed as the theoretical framework. The investigation focuses on a Swedish PETE programme and the participants are six pre-service teachers. The empirical material consists of written assessments, observations of the pre-service teachers’ lessons during school placements, and individual interviews. Findings suggest that the pedagogic discourse of ball games at the university was aligned with course learning outcomes and included the need to communicate goals, adapt and modify teaching, and combine different approaches. The pedagogic discourse at school placement involved traditional ball games, minimal curriculum references, progression in two or three lessons, and inclusive, enjoyable lessons. Factors that regulated the discourse were: familiarity with the pupils; the conceptualizing of inclusive teaching; norms regarding ball games in PE; expectations of the pre-service teachers; and the framing of ball games education in PETE. Recontextualising rules highlight challenges in transitions related to ball games.
A systematic account of probabilistic fallacies in legal fact-finding
Authors: Dahlman Christian
Published: October 2023

Evidence scholars have observed probabilistic fallacies in legal fact-finding and given them names since the 1980s (for example ‘Prosecutor's Fallacy’ and ‘Defense Attorney's Fallacy’). This has produced a rather un-organised list of over a dozen different probabilistic fallacies. In this article, the author proposes a systematic account where the observed probabilistic fallacies are organised in categories. Hierarchical relations between probabilistic fallacies are highlighted, and some fallacies are re-named to reflect the category they belong to and their relation to other fallacies in that category. All fallacies are precisely defined and illustrated with examples from real cases where they are committed by fact-finders. The result is a list of 12 probabilistic fallacies organised into 7 categories.
Modeling the impact of the fuel injection strategy on the combustion and performance characteristics of a heavy-duty GCI engine
Authors: Addepalli Srinivasa Krishna , Pamminger Michael , Scarcelli Riccardo , Wallner Thomas
Published: October 2023

Gasoline compression ignition (GCI) is a promising strategy to achieve high thermal efficiency and low emissions with limited modifications to the conventional diesel engine hardware. It is a partially premixed concept, which derives its superiority from higher volatility and longer ignition delay of gasoline-like fuels combined with higher compression ratio typical of diesel engines. The present study investigates the combustion process in a GCI engine operating with different injection strategies using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Simulations are carried out on a single cylinder of a multi cylinder heavy-duty compression ignition engine, which operates at a compression ratio of 17:1 and an engine speed of 1038 rev/min. Two different injection strategies viz., late injection (LI), and early pilot injection (EP) are investigated to understand their impact on combustion and performance of the engine. Renormalized group (RNG) k-ε model is used to describe in-cylinder turbulence and KH RT model is used to simulate the fuel spray breakup. The developed CFD methodology is validated against relevant experimental data under a wide range of operating conditions for each injection strategy. The developed CFD methodology was found to capture the engine combustion behavior quite well. Based on the validated CFD model, the differences in the progress of combustion event for the two injection strategies is highlighted. It was found that a larger pilot fuel mass fraction results in a steeper rise in the initial heat release rate which in turn influences the transition to mixing controlled combustion. In line with the experimental data, the study showed that the late pilot injection strategy with three injection pulses, results in higher performance compared to the other conditions.
Research from an active-involved critical stance: Insights from extended ethnography
Authors: Malka Menny
Published: October 2023

In the field of critical research, there is significant interest about the extent and forms of the researcher's proactive engagement with marginalized and excluded communities being researched. However, it is not always clear what makes this involvement part of the research, or how much it serves as a moral position located in the process of building relationships with the community being researched. Based on a retrospective and reflexive observation of extended ethnographic fieldwork, between 2005 and 2016, with Israel's Mountain Jewish Community, this paper presents an analysis of Research from an Active-Involved Critical Stance (RAICS). In the conceptual-theoretical dimension, this position is anchored in the theory of intersubjective relationships, critical ethnography, and community-based participatory research. With respect to the structural aspect, RAICS will be explicated through the various positions taken up by the researcher within the field, and across three stages in the development of the relationship with the community during the study, namely: the store-windows; behind the scenes; and onstage. Eight principles of RAICS will be presented. Finally, RAICS will be discussed in the context of developments in the critical research field.
Latent morphologies: Encoding architectural features and decoding their structure through artificial intelligence
Authors: Kim Dongyun
Published: October 2023

This article explores the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the architectural discipline, focusing on generative models and their controllability. While generative models have revolutionized the design process by freeing designers from specific tasks and allowing them to focus on desired results, the reliance on randomness frequently hinders controllability and meaningful experimentation. To address this challenge, the article proposes the construction of an encyclopedic architectural dataset, encompassing various architectural projects and combining images with text for multimodal applications and two methodologies, multi-class StyleGAN and multimodal StyleGAN+CLIP to enhance controllability. Utilizing specific conditions, multi-class StyleGAN enables designers to navigate latent space and identify hidden patterns, while StyleGAN+CLIP integrates text to achieve specific controllability and generate diverse architectural features. Through experimentation, the research showcases the potential of generative models to create structured designs that incorporate existing architectural styles.
Transfemoral Access to Implant Iliac Branch Devices After Previous Aortic Grafts
Authors: Torrealba Jose , Grandi Alessandro , Nana Petroula , Panuccio Giuseppe , Rohlffs Fiona , Kölbel Tilo
Published: October 2023

Objective:

To report on the outcomes of patients undergoing an iliac branch device implantation after previous open or endovascular aorto-biliac repair, using exclusively femoral access for catheterization and delivery of the covering stent to the hypogastric artery.

Methods:

Single-center retrospective study in which all patients in whom an iliac branch device was implanted after previous open or endovascular aorto-biliac repair were identified. Patients in whom the hypogastric artery catheterization and delivery of the bridging cover stent were achieved via exclusive femoral access were included. Different techniques were used based on surgeon preference. Technical success and access-related complications, as well as iliac branch device endoleak or occlusions during follow-up, were evaluated.

Results:

From 2015 to 2021, 28 patients with a prior open or endovascular aorto-biliac repair underwent 34 iliac branch device implantations. Most (71%) had juxtarenal or thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms, 82% had common iliac artery aneurysms, and 25% had hypogastric artery aneurysms. Bilateral iliac branch device implantations were performed in 21% of the patients, and in 26% of cases, landing in the superior gluteal artery was obtained. An “up-and-over” technique from the contralateral groin was used in 65% of the cases, and a steerable sheath in 35%. Technical success was 94%, with no complications related to access or technique to catheterize and deliver the stents in the hypogastric artery. The cohort had 20% of major complications, with 3 perioperative deaths. Kaplan–Meier estimated an iliac branch device freedom from occlusion and endoleak was 92% and 83% at 2 years.

Conclusions:

The implantation of an iliac branch device over previous aortic or open endografts involving the aortic bifurcation is feasible and safe. We suggest using a femoral approach as the primary access of choice.

Clinical Impact

In this study we present 28 patients with previous aortoiliac grafts in which iliac branch devices were performed as a subsequent step.We demonstrated the feasibility of the technique despite the difficulty of crossing a neobifurcation, with a steep angle, without complications associated with the technique. Based on our experience, we recommend transfemoral access as the first option for bypassing the hypogastric artery stent, preserving upper extremity access and its possible complications.
Mapping actuating performance of knitted shape memory alloys and proposing design guidelines for assistive wearable applications
Authors: Lee Soo-Min , Jung Woo-Kyun , Park Juyeon
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study was to map the actuating performance of knitted SMA modules, and propose design guidelines for developing optimal SMA actuators, to be used in wearable assistive devices, suitable to be worn on the human body. To validate the findings of this study in the real world, we adopted an assistive rehabilitation glove for hemiplegic patients as a particular design case. To characterize the bending and contractile properties of knitted SMA modules, we conducted actuating performance tests with 720 knitted SMA samples under various conditions in actuation force, bending angle, contraction, electric power, and surface temperature. Based on the results, we proposed design guidelines by aligning the actuating performance of knitted SMA modules with joint mobility of hemiplegic patients for a smart rehabilitation glove. We anticipate that the outcomes of this study will serve as a practical yardstick for researchers in determining the desired actuating performance of a knitted SMA module that can support and assist the joint motion of the human body, when designing a wearable assistive device.
Fatigue as an Understudied Barrier to Participation in Life Roles
Authors: Poole Janet L. , Murphy Susan L. , Foster Erin R. , Sleight Alix G. , Van Denend Toni , Asher Arash , Carandang Kristine , Finlayson Marcia , Fogelberg Donald , Jim Heather S. L. , Ledingham Aileen , Packer Tanya , Plow Matthew , Preissner Katherine , Wechsler Stephen , Whibley Daniel
Published: October 2023

Fatigue is one of the most burdensome and disabling symptoms in numerous acute and chronic conditions and is associated with reduced participation in all aspects of daily life, for example, parenting, employment, and socialization. Historically, occupational practitioners played key roles in fatigue management by creating and implementing interventions. The American Occupational Therapy Foundation convened a Planning Grant Collective workshop with the goal to develop collaborative research ideas and proposals to advance the understanding and management of fatigue. Participants from occupational therapy and other disciplines, with expertise with fatigue or who were conducting research on fatigue, participated in a 3-day virtual workshop. Four main topics emerged: implementation science, treatment taxonomy, trial design and comparative effectiveness, and phenotyping. This white paper describes the proceedings, summarizes the discussions, and outlines recommendations from the PGC workshop on fatigue.
Reflection on the Role of a Hospital Chaplain as a Resource for Ethical Concerns
Authors: Yoon Paul
Published: October 2023

As I take a legal approach to religion and spirituality, I reflect on how a chaplain can be beneficial as a resource to ethical concerns with which medical teams and patients/caregivers are confronted. This rather new approach can help medical professionals to understand the scope of a chaplain's work and to distinguish the work of a chaplain from that of clergy in organized religion.
Adaptive design of bus chassis using a design structure matrix to facilitate integration of new power sources
Authors: Peng Qian , Meng Xiangchao , Liu Sheng , Han Fenggang , Robinson Mark
Published: October 2023

To meet the various demands for bus platforms tailored for the emerging new power sources, an adaptive design method is proposed for a bus chassis development using a design structure matrix. The structural feature parameters of the product modules are extracted and the corresponding design structure matrix is established to analyze structural correlations between modules. An adaptive design method process model is constructed following quantification of the design structure matrix. A digital matrix of the module interface is then built to characterize integration and interchangeability of functional modules. Reconfiguration of modules is conducted using the parent-child relationship premise so that the interface matrixes are well integrated. The adaptability of these products is subsequently improved by sharing dominant modules and replacement of local modules. Finally, the implementation of the proposed methodology is illustrated for a current bus chassis.
Assessment of pain-related behaviors in HIV-1 transgenic rats as a model of HIV-associated chronic pain
Authors: E Gryshyna Anastasiia , Chatterjee Tanima , J DeBerry Jennifer , Aggarwal Saurabh
Published: October 2023

Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV)-associated chronic pain is a debilitating comorbid condition that affects 25–85% of people with HIV. The use of opioids to alleviate pain has given rise to opioid dependency in this cohort. Therefore, there is an urgent need to understand mechanisms and identify novel therapeutics for HIV-associated chronic pain. Several animal models have been developed to study HIV-related comorbidities. HIV-1 transgenic (Tg) rats have been shown to serve as a reliable model that mimic the deficits observed in people with HIV, such as neurological and immune system alterations. However, pain-related behavior in these animals has not been extensively evaluated. In this study, we measured evoked and spontaneous behavior in HIV-1Tg male and female rats. The results indicated that HIV-1Tg rats exhibit similar behavior to those with HIV-1-related neuropathy, specifically, cold sensitivity. Consequently, HIV-1Tg rats can serve as a model of neuropathy to study pain-related mechanisms and therapeutics targeted toward individuals living with HIV-1.
Corneal immune cells as a biomarker of inflammation in multiple sclerosis: a longitudinal study
Authors: Petropoulos Ioannis N. , John Karen , Al-Shibani Fatima , Ponirakis Georgios , Khan Adnan , Gad Hoda , Mahfoud Ziyad R. , Altarawneh Heba , Rehman Muhammad Hassan , Al-Merekhi Dhabia , George Pooja , Ibrahim Faiza , Francis Reny , Canibano Beatriz , Deleu Dirk , El-Sotouhy Ahmed , Vattoth Surjith , Stettner Mark , Own Ahmed , Shuaib Ashfaq , Akhtar Naveed , Kamran Saadat , Malik Rayaz A.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Corneal immune cells (ICs) are antigen-presenting cells that are known to increase ocular and systemic inflammatory conditions.

Objective:

We aimed to assess longitudinal changes in corneal IC in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and relation to disability and ongoing treatment.

Design:

Prospective observational study conducted between September 2016 and February 2020.

Methods:

Patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) ( n = 45) or secondary progressive MS (SPMS) ( n = 15) underwent corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) at baseline and 2-year follow-up for estimation of corneal IC density [dendritic cells with (DCF) (cells/mm2) or without nerve fiber contact (DCP); and non-dendritic cells with (NCF) or without nerve fiber contact (NCP)]. Optical coherence tomography, neuroimaging, and disability assessments were additionally performed. Healthy controls ( n = 20) were assessed at baseline.

Results:

In both RRMS and SPMS compared to controls, DCP ( p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) and DCF ( p < 0.001 and p = 0.005) were higher and NCF ( p = 0.007 and p = 0.02) was lower at baseline. DCP showed excellent performance in identifying patients with MS (sensitivity/specificity = 0.88/0.90) followed by DCF (0.80/0.75) and NCF (0.80/0.85). At follow-up compared to baseline, DCP ( p = 0.01) was significantly reduced, and NCP ( p = 0.004) and NCF ( p = 0.04) were increased. Subgroup analysis showed that baseline NCP and NCF were significantly higher ( p = 0.04–0.05) in patients who switched disease-modifying treatment, and baseline NCP ( p = 0.05) was higher in patients on interferon.

Conclusion:

Baseline and change in corneal IC were related to axonal degeneration and treatment status. Evaluation of corneal IC using CCM may allow an assessment of ongoing inflammation, disease progression, and the effect of treatment in MS.
Bowed, Bent, & Broken: Duterte's Assaults on Civil Society in the Philippines
Authors: Arugay Aries A , Baquisal Justin Keith A
Published: October 2023

The Philippines has historically been known to have one of the most robust and politically active civil societies in the world. With a deep affinity with democracy, civil society became a reliable bulwark against abuses of power and endemic corruption. However, it came under attack under the populist, illiberal Duterte administration (2016–2022) through intimidation, persecution, massive disinformation, and even outright violence. This article examines why Philippine civil society – despite its attempted pushback against democratic erosion – was generally neutralized by Duterte. Apart from its weakened state given polarizing elite conflicts in the 2000s, Duterte engaged in executive assaults against civil society through the four strategies of exploiting divisions within civil society; securitizing public; regulating civic space to weed out opposition voices; and controlling the media environment. This article concludes by examining the implications of a weakened civil society and prospects for its reinvigoration under a restored Marcos dynasty, which won the 2022 Philippine presidential elections.
Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim: A Review of Its Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Yan Han , Zhou Fen , Liu Ying , Zhang Yawen , Xu Huan , Zhang Jingmin , Wang Jing , Jiang Shujuan , Qin Daogang , Wang Ting
Published: October 2023

Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim (ZBM) belongs to Rutaceae family and has been used as traditional spice and herb for hundreds of years in China. Accumulating evidence suggests a series of pharmacological effects associated with ZBM. This review aims to provide a systematic analysis of the composition, structural properties, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics of ZBM. Chemical composition analysis of ZBM showed that the main compositions were volatile oil, amide compounds, flavonoids, alkaloids, coumarins, lignans, and phenylpropanoids. Interestingly, ZBM exhibits a wide range of significant biological activities including anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, anesthetic effect, neuroprotective effect, antiobesity activity, antineoplastic activity, antibacterial, and other activities. However, there is currently no comprehensive review available on ZBM. Therefore, an up-to-date research was accomplished through systematic searching of multiple electronic databases. In a word, this review summarizes the recent researches investigating the chemical composition and biological properties which will provide a better understanding about the health benefits and preclinical assessment of novel application of ZBM.
How social roles shape interpersonal affect regulation at work
Authors: Groth Markus , Bindl Uta K. , Wang Karyn , van Kleef Gerben A.
Published: October 2023

Individuals often attempt to influence the affective states of others in the workplace. Such interpersonal affect regulation (IAR) occurs across social settings that are characterized by distinct roles and relationships between actors and targets. However, it is unclear whether and how IAR processes and outcomes differ across settings as pertinent research has developed in separate organizational literatures with different research traditions that have thus far not been compared or integrated. In addition, despite the social nature of IAR, the types of relationships between the actor engaging in IAR and the target of IAR have rarely been considered in prior research. Here, we present an integrative framework to establish why and how social roles at work shape motivation, strategies, and affective outcomes of IAR across three core actor-target configurations in organizations. Specifically, we theorize how internal-vertical, internal-horizontal, and external social role configurations influence IAR. We provide integrative insights into the nature and implications of IAR in organizations and generate a comprehensive agenda for future research on IAR.
Pheochromocytoma: a changing perspective and current concepts
Authors: Kiriakopoulos Andreas , Giannakis Periklis , Menenakos Evangelos
Published: October 2023

This article aims to review current concepts in diagnosing and managing pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL). Personalized genetic testing is vital, as 40–60% of tumors are linked to a known mutation. Tumor DNA should be sampled first. Next-generation sequencing is the best and most cost-effective choice and also helps with the expansion of current knowledge. Recent advancements have also led to the increased incorporation of regulatory RNA, metabolome markers, and the NETest in PPGL workup. PPGL presentation is highly volatile and nonspecific due to its multifactorial etiology. Symptoms mainly derive from catecholamine (CMN) excess or mass effect, primarily affecting the cardiovascular system. However, paroxysmal nature, hypertension, and the classic triad are no longer perceived as telltale signs. Identifying high-risk subjects and diagnosing patients at the correct time by using appropriate personalized methods are essential. Free plasma/urine catecholamine metabolites must be first-line examinations using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry as the gold standard analytical method. Reference intervals should be personalized according to demographics and comorbidity. The same applies to result interpretation. Threefold increase from the upper limit is highly suggestive of PPGL. Computed tomography (CT) is preferred for pheochromocytoma due to better cost-effectiveness and spatial resolution. Unenhanced attenuation of >10HU in non-contrast CT is indicative. The choice of extra-adrenal tumor imaging is based on location. Functional imaging with positron emission tomography/computed tomography and radionuclide administration improves diagnostic accuracy, especially in extra-adrenal/malignant or familial cases. Surgery is the mainstay treatment when feasible. Preoperative α-adrenergic blockade reduces surgical morbidity. Aggressive metastatic PPGL benefits from systemic chemotherapy, while milder cases can be managed with radionuclides. Short-term postoperative follow-up evaluates the adequacy of resection. Long-term follow-up assesses the risk of recurrence or metastasis. Asymptomatic carriers and their families can benefit from surveillance, with intervals depending on the specific gene mutation. Trials primarily focusing on targeted therapy and radionuclides are currently active. A multidisciplinary approach, correct timing, and personalization are key for successful PPGL management.
Efficacy of intraoperative subanesthetic dose of ketamine/esketamine in preventing postoperative cognitive dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Na , Chen Chengchuan , Liu Yubei , Yu Zhaolan , Chen Yanhua
Published: October 2023

Background:

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common complication after anesthesia surgery, especially in older people, that can persist weeks or months after surgery as a short-term impairment of cognitive abilities, or even for a prolonged duration over years, potentially progressing into permanent cognitive dysfunction. However, the pathogenesis of POCD is not fully understood, and therefore an optimal solution for preventing POCD has yet to be established. Some studies have shown that intraoperative ketamine/esketamine reduces the incidence of POCD, but this remains controversial.

Objectives:

We evaluated the effect of intraoperative subanesthetic doses of ketamine/esketamine versus no intervention in adults undergoing general anesthesia surgery on the incidence of POCD.

Data Sources:

We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and searched the PubMed, Embase, Ovid, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for the MeSH terms ‘ketamine’, ‘esketamine’, and ‘Postoperative Cognitive Complications’ from database inception to 25 June 2023.

Results:

We found no statistically significant difference in the incidence of POCD within 7 days for intraoperative subanesthetic dose of ketamine/esketamine compared with the control group [relative risk (RR) = 0.57, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.32, 1.01], and the results from the subgroup analysis based on age (>60 years) also revealed that the difference was not statistically significant (RR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.23, 1.04).

Conclusion:

Compared with controls, intraoperative subanesthetic dose of ketamine/esketamine has no advantage in preventing POCD in patients, or in elderly patients. This study provides reference data for POCD research and clinical drug intervention strategies.

Registration:

Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; registration number CRD42023401159).
Recent and past toxoplasmosis infections, associated factors, and awareness among pregnant women in Nigeria
Authors: Onyinye Nnemelu Perpetua , Ikechukwu Mbachu , Chinedu Ndukwe , Chukwuanugo N Ogbuagu , Nnamdi C Onyenyili Ikemefuna , Nne Akujobi Comfort
Published: October 2023

Objectives:

The study determined the rate of recent and past Toxoplasma gondii infections, associated factors, and awareness among expectant mothers assessing antenatal care in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria.

Methods:

This prospective cohort study was conducted among pregnant women. A questionnaire was used to gather information on socio-demographics, infection risk factors, and awareness of the infection. Using an ELISA kit, the IgG and IgM antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii were assessed in blood samples from these women. For samples that tested positive for IgM, a real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to amplify the DNA. SPSS version 23 was used for data entry and analysis. The p-value < 0.05 was adjudged to be significant.

Results:

A total of 250 pregnant women participated in the study. The rate of recent infection (IgM antibody positivity) was 3.6% (9/250), while past infection (IgG antibody positivity) was 68.4% (171/250). Polymerase chain reaction confirmed 5/9 recent infections as positive. Factors significantly associated with toxoplasmosis were gardening ( p = 0.037) and undercooked meat ( p = 0.023). Only 27 out of 250 pregnant women in this research had heard of toxoplasmosis, which translates to a low awareness rate of 10.8%.

Conclusions:

The recent infection among pregnant women in this study indicates the possibility of mother-to-child transmission with attendant sequelae. There was a significant association between past Toxoplasmosis gondii infections and stillbirth. Routine screening for toxoplasmosis should be incorporated into the antenatal program since none of the symptoms could significantly predict illness. In addition, regular antennal care instruction should cover toxoplasmosis education.
Ifood: Development and usability study of a social media-based applet for dietary monitoring
Authors: Lan Yushan , Xu Xiaowei , Guo Zhen , Sun Lianglong , Lai Jianqiang , Li Jiao
Published: October 2023

Background

Dietary monitoring is critical to maintaining human health. Social media platforms are widely used for daily recording and communication for individuals’ diets and activities. The textual content shared on social media offers valuable resources for dietary monitoring.

Objective

This study aims to describe the development of iFood, an applet providing personal dietary monitoring based on social media content, and validate its usability, which will enable efficient personal dietary monitoring.

Methods

The process of the development and validation of iFood is divided into four steps: Diet datasets construction, diet record and analysis, diet monitoring applet design, and diet monitoring applet usability assessment. The diet datasets were constructed with the data collected from Weibo, Meishijie, and diet guidelines, which will be used as the basic knowledge for further model training in the phase of diet record and analysis. Then, the friendly user interface was designed to link users with backend functions. Finally, the applet was deployed as a WeChat applet and 10 users from the Beijing Union Medical College have been recruited to validate the usability of iFood.

Results

Three dietary datasets, including User Visual-Textual Dataset, Dietary Information Expansion Dataset, and Diet Recipe Dataset have been constructed. The performance of 4 models for recognizing diet and fusing unimodality data was 40.43%(dictionary-based model), 18.45%(rule-based model), 59.95%(Inception-ResNet-v2), and 51.38% (K-nearest neighbor), respectively. Furthermore, we have designed a user-friendly interface for the iFood applet and conducted a usability assessment, which resulted in an above-average usability score.

Conclusions

iFood is effective for managing individual dietary behaviors through its seamless integration with social media data. This study suggests that future products could utilize social media data to promote healthy lifestyles.