bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arqueologia, História e Memória: um ensaio sobre a circularidade e as sobreposições destas três práticas de relação com o passado
Authors: Rodrigues Sofia Helena Cardoso
Published: August 2022

O ensaio aqui proposto contempla a atuação da História e da Arqueologia, duas disciplinas consolidadas de contato com o passado, e sua relação com o uso da Memória, conceito abstrato que é utilizado por ambas as áreas, e que ainda existe por si fora dos campos acadêmicos de investigação, como mecanismo orgânico cerebral. Arqueologia e História têm, além de um histórico comum de uso pela academia, uma retrospectiva de discussão, ora afastando-se, ora aproximando-se, ou ainda, reduzindo a individualidade uma das outras; ações as quais refletem na sociedade. Memória, uma das principais ferramentas de uso destas, entra também como poder social. Desta forma, temos por objetivo, no presente texto, a realização de um breve panorama do surgimento e percebimento delas enquanto disciplinas e conceito, respectivamente; bem como sua relação entre si e com a prática milenar humana de contato com tempos precedentes. Sintetizamos e comparamos algumas teorias acadêmicas dos dias de hoje que discorrem sobre o assunto, na busca por trazer reflexões sobre afinidades da prática das mesmas. Le Goff (1990) e Pierre Nora (1993), enquanto historiadores e teóricos do uso da memória, assim como Gordon Childe (1977), Bruce Trigger (2004) e Alain Schnapp (1996), em seus lugares de arqueólogos de diferentes eras, são os estudos que, comparados com demais fontes historiográficas chave, forneceram nosso suporte de análise. Almejamos refletir sobre a significância individual delas ao mesmo tempo em que atuam de modo conjunto na construção de narrativas sobre o passado.
Notas sobre Roda Viva: 1968-2018
Authors: Graziani Vitor Morais
Published: August 2022

O presente ensaio possui como objetivo uma análise comparada das encenações de 1968 e 2018 da peça-musical Roda Viva, de Chico Buarque de Hollanda, montada e dirigida, em ambas as ocasiões, pelo Teatro Oficina e José Celso Martinez Corrêa. Com cinquenta anos de intervalo entre uma e outra, denota-se uma alteração na forma da montagem: a agressão da primeira versão, na esteira do golpe civil-militar de 1964 e da ditadura instalada, dá lugar a um rito coletivo de resistência, agora na esteira do golpe parlamentar de 2016 e do pleito presidencial de 2018. A indústria cultural, cerne dos problemas na primeira montagem, é expandida – e a tropicália do Oficina, conhecida por sua radicalidade formal, dá lugar a uma roupagem esvaziada do resistir.
Association of In‐Hospital Hemoglobin Drop With Decreased Myocardial Salvage and Increased Long‐Term Mortality in Patients With Acute ST‐Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Dutsch Alexander , Graesser Christian , Voll Felix , Novacek Sophie , Eggerstedt Robert , Armbruster Nicolás López , Laugwitz Karl‐Ludwig , Cassese Salvatore , Schunkert Heribert , Ndrepepa Gjin , Kastrati Adnan , Kessler Thorsten , Sager Hendrik B.
Published: August 2022

Background

Anemia and blood loss occur often in patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). In‐hospital hemoglobin drop is associated with 1‐year mortality in patients with acute coronary syndrome. However, data on the effect of hemoglobin reduction on myocardial salvage and long‐term outcomes are scarce. We investigated the impact of in‐hospital hemoglobin drop on myocardial salvage and 5‐year mortality in patients with STEMI treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results

In‐hospital hemoglobin drop was defined as a decrease in hemoglobin levels from admission and nadir hemoglobin values. Patients were categorized as having the following: no drop, minimal drop (<3 g/dL), minor drop (≥3 to <5 g/dL), and major drop (≥5 g/dL). Myocardial area at risk and infarct size were measured using serial single‐photon emission computerized tomography imaging. The co‐primary outcomes were myocardial salvage and 5‐year all‐cause mortality. Of 1204 patients, 1169 (97.1%) showed a hemoglobin drop during hospitalization: minimal, minor, and major drop occurred in 894 (74.3%), 214 (17.8%), and 61 (5.1%) patients, respectively. Myocardial salvage was reduced in patients with minimal (median, 0.53 [interquartile range, 0.27–0.83]), minor (median, 0.40 [interquartile range, 0.18–0.62]), and major (median, 0.40 [interquartile range, 0.14–0.77]) drop compared with patients without drop (median, 0.70 [interquartile range, 0.44–1.0],
P
<0.001). After adjusting for covariates, hemoglobin drop remained an independent correlate of poor myocardial salvage. A drop of ≥3 g/dL was associated with reduced left ventricular function at 6 months and with increased mortality at 5‐year follow‐up after STEMI.

Conclusions

In patients with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention, in‐hospital hemoglobin drop was associated with reduced myocardial salvage, left ventricular function, and increased long‐term mortality.
A review of Iranian Eucharitidae (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea), with description of four new species and discussion on Western Palaearctic species
Authors: Lotfalizadeh Hossein , Moghaddam Mostafa Ghafouri , Rasplus Jean-Yves
Published: August 2022

Nine species of Eucharitidae belonging to three genera, namely Eucharis (Eucharis) adscendens (Fabricius, 1787); E. (E.) carinifera Gussakovskij, 1940; E. (E.) caspicus Lotfalizadeh & Rasplus sp. nov.; E. (E.) shajariani Lotfalizadeh & Ghafouri Moghaddam sp. nov.; Eucharis (E.) vashicus Lotfalizadeh & Ghafouri Moghaddam, sp. nov.; E. (Psilogastrellus) acuminata Ruschka, 1924 rec. nov.; E. (P.) punctata Förster, 1859; Hydrorhoa johnheratyi Lotfalizadeh & Rasplus, sp. nov. and Stilbula cf. cyniformis (Rossi, 1792) are described and illustrated from Iran. Types of all related species have been examined and compared to the Iranian individuals. To stabilize existing nomenclature, we designated lectotypes and paralectotypes for E. (E.) adscendens and E. (E.) carinifera. The genus Hydrorhoa Kieffer, 1904 is confirmed to occur in the Palaearctic region. A key to the genera and species of Eucharitidae occurring in Iran, as well as their distribution maps, are provided.
The Birth of Time and Hesiod’s “Emotional Cosmos”. A Multiverse Approach amid Philosophical Instances and Philological Roots
Authors: Coco Emanuele
Published: August 2022

In his essay From Logos to Mythos, I republished on the twentieth anniversary of its first publication, Most saw in the release of Creuzer’s Symbolik und Mythologie the moment when philology distanced itself from philosophy “refraining strictly from any discussion of what the Greek myths could mean for us, and instead concentrating […] into what the Greek myths could have meant for the Greeks”. This essay analyses the case study offered by the mythological dyad Kronos (Κρόνος) and Chronos (Χρόνος). It highlights some elements that place these two figures at a distance on the philological level but closer on the philosophical one. The essay encourages a dialogue between philological rigour and philosophical use of myth: myth, in its prolificity, is eloquent in every age and a careful understanding of what it meant to the Greeks in its time does not necessarily imply giving up understanding what it may mean to us today.
Tale of two species of Stylissa (Porifera: Demospongiae: Scopalinida) from the west and east coasts of India
Authors: GEORGE ANITA M
Published: August 2022

Recent collections from the western and southern coasts of India recorded two species of Stylissa Hallmann (Scopalinida, Scopalinidae). Stylissa soestii sp. nov. was collected from St. George Island in Goa, Hare Island in the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Bay. It has six distinct different morphologies and sizes of styles, in addition to the typical gently curved stout and thin styles characteristic of Stylissa, and two different morphologies of strongyloxeas and rare strongyles. Stylissa carteri (Dendy, 1889) was reported previously from India (Gulf of Mannar and Pearl Banks of Tuticorin) and is redescribed here from populations in Palk Bay, east coast of India, in addition to Muttom, Vizhinjam and Lakshadweep islands, which are the first records of S. carteri from the west coast of India.
A deep learning neural network approach for predicting the factors influencing heavy-metal adsorption by clay minerals
Authors: Liu Rui , Zuo Lei , Zhang Peng , Zhao Jiajia , Tao Dongping
Published: August 2022

The treatment of water containing heavy metals has attracted increasing attention because the ingestion of such water poses risks to human health. Due to their relatively large specific surface areas and surface charges, clay minerals play a significant role in the adsorption of heavy metals in water. However, the major factors that influence the adsorption rates of clay minerals are not well understood, and thus methods to predict the sorption of heavy metals by clay minerals are lacking. A method that can identify the most appropriate clay minerals for removal of a given heavy metal, based on the predicted sorption of the clay minerals, is required. This paper presents a widely applicable deep learning neural network approach that yielded excellent predictions of the influence of the sorption ratio on the adsorption of heavy metals by clay minerals. The neural network model was based on datasets of heavy-metal parameters that are available generally. It yielded highly accurate predictions of the adsorption rate based on training data from the dataset and was able to account for a wide range of input parameters. A Pearson sensitivity analysis was used to determine the contributions of individual input parameters to the adsorption rates predicted by the neural network. This newly developed method can predict the major factors influencing heavy-metal adsorption rates. The model described here could be applied in a wide range of scenarios.
DRASTIC, GOD, and SI approaches for assessing groundwater vulnerability to pollution: a review
Authors: Fannakh Abdelouahed , Farsang Andrea
Published: August 2022

Over the last three to four decades, several methods for assessing groundwater vulnerability to anthropogenic pollution have been developed. Researchers and policymakers have widely used these methods for preventing groundwater pollution through knowledge about particularly vulnerable areas. This systematic review presents different and significant methods for assessing the vulnerability of aquifers for the protection of the resource. Previous studies mentioned that formulating a single technique for assessing groundwater vulnerability is difficult; thus, different methods and techniques have been proposed. Therefore, this paper presents three methods, namely, DRASTIC, GOD, and susceptibility index (SI), which will be discussed in detail, and highlights their advantages and limitations. In doing so, the study introduces the concept of aquifer vulnerability, and further discussion will be devoted to the three methods. Lastly, the study outlines the major challenges to the assessment of aquifer vulnerability. The review concludes the importance of groundwater vulnerability and strategies for preserving its quality.
Reducing costs for DNA and RNA sequencing by sample pooling using a metagenomic approach
Authors: Teufel Marc , Sobetzko Patrick
Published: August 2022

DNA and RNA sequencing are widely used techniques to investigate genomic modifications and gene expression. The costs for sequencing dropped dramatically in the last decade. However, due to material and labor intense steps, the sample preparation costs could not keep up with that pace. About 80% of the total costs occur prior to sequencing during DNA/RNA extraction, enrichment steps and subsequent library preparation. In this study, we investigate the potential of pooling different organisms samples prior to DNA/RNA extraction to significantly reduce costs in preparative steps. Similar to the common procedure of ligated DNA tags to pool (c)DNA samples, sequence diversity of different organisms intrinsically provide unique sequences that allow separation of reads after sequencing. With this approach, sample pooling can occur before DNA/RNA isolation and library preparation. We show that pooled sequencing of three related bacterial organisms is possible without loss of data quality at a cost reduction of approx. 50% in DNA- and RNA-seq approaches. Furthermore, we show that this approach is highly efficient down to the level of a shared genus and is, therefore, widely applicable in sequencing facilities and companies with diverse sample pools.
Effects of visual scanning exercises in addition to task specific approach on balance and activities of daily livings in post stroke patients with eye movement disorders: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Batool Sana , Zafar Hamayun , Gilani Syed Amir , Ahmad Ashfaq , Hanif Asif
Published: August 2022

Background

Impaired vision is one of the commonest and most disabling consequence following stroke. Among all visual impairments, eye movement disorders are found in 70% of stroke patients which include nystagmus, strabismus, gaze palsies, disconjugate eye movements and cranial nerve palsies. They have a wide ranging impact on balance and activities of daily livings by creating difficulties in maintaining normal alignment and appropriate movement of eyes. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of visual scanning exercises in addition to task specific approach on balance and activities of daily livings in post stroke patients with eye movement disorders.

Methods

This study is a randomized controlled trial and was conducted in the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital from May 2019 to October 2020. A sample of 64 patients was recruited and randomly allocated into experimental and control group. 32 patients in experimental group were treated with visual scanning exercises along with task specific approach and 32 patients in control group were treated with task specific approach alone. Pre and post assessment of balance and activities of daily livings was assessed on BERG BALANCE SCALE and BARTHEL INDEX SCALE at baseline and at 4th week.

Results

Intra-group analysis of BERG BALANCE SCALE in experimental group showed statistically significant result (p < 0.05) in all items except in items 4, 13 and 14 respectively. Intra-group analysis of BERG BALANCE SCALE in control group showed statistically significant result (p < 0.05) in items 3, 5, 8 and 12 respectively, whereas remaining all items showed statistically insignificant result. Intra-group analysis of BARTHEL INDEX SCALE in experimental group showed statistically significant result in all items (p < 0.05) except in items 9 and 10 respectively. Intra-group analysis of BARTHEL INDEX in control group showed statistically significant result (p < 0.05) in items 1, 3, 4 and 8 respectively whereas remaining all items showed statistically insignificant result. Inter-group analysis showed statistically significant result in total scores of BERG BALANCE SCALE (p = 0.000) and BARTHEL INEX SCALE (p = 0.033).

Conclusion

Visual scanning exercises along with task specific approach were found to be more effective in comparison to task specific approach alone.

Trial registration

Trial registration number: [IRCT20190717044237N1], trial registration date: 10/11/2019,
Perceived general, mental, and physical health of Latinos in the United States following adoption of immigrant-inclusive state-level driver’s license policies: a time-series analysis
Authors: Escalera Cristian , Strassle Paula D. , Quintero Stephanie M. , Maldonado Ana I. , Withrow Diana , Alhomsi Alia , Bonilla Jackie , Santana-Ufret Veronica , Nápoles Anna María
Published: August 2022

Background

In the United States (U.S.), several states have laws that allow individuals to obtain driver’s licenses regardless of their immigration status. Possession of a driver’s license can improve an individual’s access to social programs, healthcare services, and employment opportunities, which could lead to improvements in perceived mental and physical health among Latinos living in the U.S.

Methods

Using Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data (2011–2019) for Latinos living in the U.S. overall (immigration status was not available), we compared the average number of self-reported perceived poor mental and physical health days/month, and general health status (single-item measures) before (January 2011-June 2013) and after implementation (July 2015-December 2019) of immigrant-inclusive license policies using interrupted time-series analyses and segmented linear regression, and a control group of states in which such policies were not implemented. We also compared the average number of adults reporting any perceived poor mental or physical health days (≥ 1 day/month) using a similar approach.

Results

One hundred twenty-three thousand eight hundred seven Latino adults were included; 66,805 lived in states that adopted immigrant-inclusive license policies. After implementation, average number of perceived poor physical health days significantly decreased from 4.30 to 3.80 days/month (immediate change = -0.64, 95% CI = -1.10 to -0.19). The proportion reporting ≥ 1 perceived poor physical and mental health day significantly decreased from 41 to 34% (OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.80–1.00) and from 40 to 33% (OR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.74–0.94), respectively.

Conclusions

Among all Latinos living in the U.S., immigrant-inclusive license policies were associated with fewer perceived poor physical health days per month and fewer adults experiencing poor physical and mental health. Because anti-immigrant policies can harm Latino communities regardless of immigration status and further widen health inequities, implementing state policies that do not restrict access to driver licenses based on immigrant status documentation could help address upstream drivers of such inequities.
Definitive surgery and intraoperative photodynamic therapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a case report
Authors: Jung Hee Suk , Kim Hyun Jung
Published: August 2022

Background

There are no guidelines for straightforwardly managing advanced lung cancer (T3 or T4). Although surgery has traditionally been regarded as the mainstay treatment and the only curative modality, it has limited relevance for patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a clinically approved cancer therapy; it is an established treatment modality with curative intent for early-stage and superficial endobronchial lesions. However, the efficacy of PDT in advanced lung cancer is controversial, and it has primarily been used in palliative care.

Case presentation

This case report describes a 70-year-old male who had right upper lung cancer and an endobronchial lesion that extended into the distal trachea. A biopsy specimen was obtained upon bronchoscopy, and the result confirmed squamous cell carcinoma. We performed a definitive sleeve lobectomy and intraoperative PDT. Gross total resection of the tumor was achieved, but the presence of microscopic residual tumors was inevitable. Complete anatomical resection of the primary tumor by pneumonectomy was not possible due to poor lung function and endobronchial extension to the distal trachea. We decided to apply intraoperative PDT to the lumen and outer wall of the bronchi and distal trachea for local tumor control. The patient is alive with no evidence of disease after 13 months of follow-up.

Conclusions

This is the first report to describe the feasibility and efficacy of intraoperative PDT as part of multimodal therapy for locally advanced NSCLC.
Psychological stress induces depressive-like behavior associated with bone marrow-derived monocyte infiltration into the hippocampus independent of blood–brain barrier disruption
Authors: Hu Huiling , Yang Xue , He Yuqing , Duan Chaohui , Sun Nannan
Published: August 2022

Background

Psychological stress is one of the most important factors that trigger emotional disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Emerging evidence suggests that neuroinflammation exacerbated by bidirectional communication between the peripheral immune system and the central nervous system facilitates abnormal psychiatric symptoms. This study aimed to investigate the hippocampal migration of bone marrow (BM)-derived monocytes and its role in regulating depressive-like behaviors using the chronic psychological stress (CPS) mouse model. More importantly, whether the central migration of these peripheral BM-derived cells depend on the disruption of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) was also investigated.

Methods and findings

Green fluorescent protein-positive (GFP+) BM chimeric mice were used to distinguish BM-derived monocytes within the brain. A CPS mouse model was established to explore the effect of CPS on hippocampal migration of BM-derived monocytes and its role in the regulation of depressive-like behaviors. The results revealed that BM-derived GFP+cells accumulated in the hippocampus and differentiated into microglia-like cells after exposure to CPS. Interestingly, this migration was not associated with BBB disruption. Furthermore, treatment with C–C chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) antagonist (RS102895) suppressed the recruitment of BM-derived monocytes to the hippocampus and alleviated depressive-like symptoms.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that monocyte recruitment to the hippocampus in response to psychological stress may represent a novel cellular mechanism that contributes to the development of depression.
New-onset hallucinations with amiodarone: a case report
Authors: Molinaro Jessica , DeVries Peter , Ha Jennifer , Knight Jennifer M.
Published: August 2022

Background

Amiodarone is a commonly used antiarrhythmic for the treatment of atrial fibrillation with a unique pharmacokinetic profile. While general side effects can be frequently associated with amiodarone, psychiatric adverse reactions to this medication are uncommon. The relationship between amiodarone and hallucinations independent of delirium has been rarely reported in the literature.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 63-year-old female with a history of estrogen and progesterone receptor positive invasive ductal carcinoma with osseous metastases to the ribs and skull, major depressive disorder, and unspecified anxiety. She was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma 12 years prior and underwent a lumpectomy with axillary lymph node dissection and radiation, currently maintained on anastrozole and trastuzumab for the past 11 years. Her symptoms of major depressive disorder and anxiety have remained in remission on a regimen of bupropion extended release, duloxetine, and trazodone without recent dose changes. This patient presented to the emergency department with dyspnea and was admitted to the general medical floor with new-onset atrial fibrillation. She was subsequently started on amiodarone for rhythm control. Shortly after its initiation, the patient developed new onset auditory and visual hallucinations with an unremarkable extensive medical evaluation. Auditory hallucinations consisted of music and unintelligible conversations, while visual hallucinations were of a family member crying on the floor and a man carrying a gun. The differential diagnoses included depression with psychotic features, delirium, and amiodarone-induced hallucinations. Given the lack of current depressive symptoms, absence of altered cognition, and the temporal relationship between the initiation of amiodarone and the onset of hallucinations, amiodarone was suspected to be probable etiology of her hallucinations. For this reason, amiodarone was replaced with dronedarone. Visual and auditory hallucinations ceased within less than 3 days after the discontinuation of amiodarone.

Conclusions

Psychiatric adverse events from amiodarone are uncommon, and associated isolated hallucinations have only been rarely reported in the literature. While the risk of visual and auditory hallucinations appears to be low with amiodarone initiation, clinicians should be aware of this potential side effect.
How does nursing-sensitive indicator feedback with nursing or interprofessional teams work and shape nursing performance improvement systems? A rapid realist review
Authors: Rapin Joachim , Pellet Joanie , Mabire Cédric , Gendron Sylvie , Dubois Carl-Ardy
Published: August 2022

Background

Care quality varies between organizations and even units within an organization. Inadequate care can have harmful financial and social consequences, e.g. nosocomial infection, lengthened hospital stays or death. Experts recommend the implementation of nursing performance improvement systems to assess team performance and monitor patient outcomes as well as service efficiency. In practice, these systems provide nursing or interprofessional teams with nursing-sensitive indicator feedback. Feedback is essential since it commits teams to improve their practice, although it appears somewhat haphazard and, at times, overlooked. Research findings suggest that contextual dynamics, initial system performance and feedback modes interact in unknown ways. This rapid review aims to produce a theorization to explain what works in which contexts, and how feedback to nursing or interprofessional teams shape nursing performance improvement systems.

Methods

Based on theory-driven realist methodology, with reference to an innovative combination of Actor-Network Theory and Critical Realist philosophy principles, this realist rapid review entailed an iterative procedure: 8766 documents in French and English, published between 2010 and 2018, were identified via 5 databases, and 23 were selected and analysed. Two expert panels (scientific and clinical) were consulted to improve the synthesis and systemic modelling of an original feedback theorization.

Results

We identified three hypotheses, subdivided into twelve generative configurations to explain how feedback mobilizes nursing or interprofessional teams. Empirically founded and actionable, these propositions are supported by expert panels. Each configuration specifies contextualized mechanisms that explain feedback and team outcomes. Socially mediated mechanisms are particularly generative of action and agency.

Conclusions

This rapid realist review provides an informative theoretical proposition to embrace the complexity of nursing-sensitive indicator feedback with nursing or interdisciplinary teams. Building on general explanations previously observed, this review provides insight into a deep explanation of feedback mechanisms.

Systematic review registration

Prospero CRD42018110128.
Binge-eating behaviors in adolescents and young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Freizinger Melissa , Jhe Grace B. , Dahlberg Suzanne E. , Pluhar Emily , Raffoul Amanda , Slater Wallis , Shrier Lydia A.
Published: August 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent public health measures have resulted in a worsening of eating disorder symptoms and an increase in psychological distress. The present study examined symptoms and behaviors in adolescents and young adults with emotional eating, bingeing behaviors and binge eating disorder during the pandemic. Additionally, the study explored if individuals who experienced pandemic-related food availability and food affordability issues experienced increased binge-eating symptoms and negative feelings.

Method

Participants (n = 39) were a convenience sample who participated between November 2020 and January 2021 in a weight and lifestyle management program at an urban New England pediatric hospital. Participants completed online surveys that assessed (1) participant’s exposure to COVID-19 related stress and binge-eating behaviors using the COVID-19 Exposure and Family Impact Survey-Adolescent and Young Adult Version (CEFIS-AYA) and the Binge Eating Scale (BES) respectively, (2) participants’ and their families’ ability to attain and afford food and its association with bingeing behaviors, and (3) the relationship between food availability and affordability and negative emotions.

Results

Nearly half of all participants (48.7%) reported moderate to severe bingeing during the COVID-19 pandemic; those who experienced greater COVID-related stress reported more binge-eating behaviors (p = 0.03). There were no associations between indicators of food availability and affordability and binge eating or between food availability and affordability and negative feelings.

Conclusions

Higher pandemic-related stress was associated with more binge-eating behaviors among adolescents and young adults. These results underscore the need to monitor symptoms and provide treatment for these patients despite barriers to care imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Research and clinical care for adolescents and young adults with EDs must recognize and respond to pandemic effects across the weight and disordered eating spectrum.
Effects of combinational use of controlled atmosphere, cold storage and edible coating applications on shelf life and quality attributes of fresh-cut persimmon fruit
Authors: Sortino Giuseppe , Allegra Alessio , Gallotta Alessandra , Saletta Filippo , Passafiume Roberta , Gaglio Raimondo , Inglese Paolo , Farina Vittorio
Published: August 2022

Background

Persimmon fruits are cherished for their unique flavor and high nutrient content. In the present study, the effects of Aloe vera-based edible coatings (EC) added with 1% ascorbic acid, 1% citric acid and 5% calcium chloride in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and their impact on shelf-life quality of fresh-cut persimmon fruit, were investigated. The experimental design consisted of four treatments 1) Aloe vera edible coating + modified atmosphere packaging (EC + MAP), 2) untreated fruit packaged with MAP (CTR + MAP); 3) Aloe vera-based edible coating in passive atmosphere (EC PASSIVE); 4) untreated fruit in passive atmosphere (CTR PASSIVE). Persimmon fruit were stored at 5 °C for 3, 6 and 9 days. At each storage time, firmness, weight loss, sugar content, organic acids, polyphenol oxidase (PPO), browning index respiration rate, sensory and microbiological analysis, were investigated.

Results

Our results were confirmed also by the sensory analysis in which both EC-treated fruit scored the highest values for positive descriptors.EC + MAP treatment showed the most effective result in maintaining total carotenoids, ascorbic acid, glucose and CO2 inside packaging reducing the PPO activity and the flesh browning of persimmon slices. EC + MAP treatment controlled the growth of total mesophilic microorganisms, pseudomonads, Enterobacteriaceae, yeasts and molds.

Conclusions

The obtained results confirmed the importance of coating composition in controlling post-harvest decay and maintaining fruit quality.
Evolution of a research team: the patient partner perspective
Authors: Madison Suzanne , Colon-Moya Alex D. , Morales-Cosme Wilfredo , Lorenzi Margie , Diaz Aracelis , Hickson Bridget , Monteiro Kathy , Muniz Ruiz Alexander , Perez Addie , Redondo Richard , Reid Dennis , Robles Janet , Santiago Marsha , Thompson Opal , Wade Joyce , White Mary , Castillo Graciela , Valenzuela Cristian
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Despite a movement toward the inclusion of patient partners or advisors as part of the research team in all funded studies, few publications have discussed patient engagement from the patient partners’ perspective.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were conducted by independent qualitative researchers to collect and summarize the experiences and perspectives of the 16 Patient Partners (PPs) on the study team for PeRson EmPowered Asthma RElief (PREPARE), a large, pragmatic study of 1200 African American/Black (AA/B) and Hispanic/Latinx (H/L) adults with asthma. This study was funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

Results

This paper, authored by the PPs themselves, summarizes qualitative interview findings. The journey of the PREPARE PPs began with a desire to learn more about asthma and advocate for other individuals with asthma. Many challenges, including intimidation and lack of trust, were overcome as the research team prioritized building a comfortable environment in which PPs’ lived experiences, opinions, and cultural beliefs are valued, and in which PP voices are centered and respected. Over time, the PPs gained confidence in expressing ideas and feedback, and in taking ownership of their role as valued members of the research team. The PP experience has had tremendous personal and professional impact on the PPs themselves, while also modeling a change in the way researchers and PPs relate to and partner with each other.

Conclusion

The partnership between PPs and researchers in the PREPARE study has elevated the PP role from external advisors to integral and empowered members of a collective research team, and the partnership developed and evolved over time.
Exhaustion disorder: scoping review of research on a recently introduced stress-related diagnosis
Authors: Lindsäter Elin , Svärdman Frank , Wallert John , Ivanova Ekaterina , Söderholm Anna , Fondberg Robin , Nilsonne Gustav , Cervenka Simon , Lekander Mats , Rück Christian
Published: August 2022

Background

Symptoms related to chronic stress are prevalent and entail high societal costs, yet there is a lack of international consensus regarding diagnostics and treatment. A new stress-related diagnosis, exhaustion disorder, was introduced into the Swedish version of ICD-10 in 2005. Since then, use of the diagnosis has increased rapidly.

Aims

To create the first comprehensive synthesis of research on exhaustion disorder to report on the current state of knowledge. Preregistration: Open Science Framework (osf.io), doi 10.17605/OSF.IO/VFDKW.

Method

A PRISMA-guided scoping review of all empirical studies of exhaustion disorder was conducted. Searches were run in the MEDLINE, PsycInfo and Web of Science databases. Data were systematically charted and thematically categorised based on primary area of investigation.

Results

Eighty-nine included studies were sorted into six themes relating to lived experience of exhaustion disorder (n = 9), symptom presentation and course (n = 13), cognitive functioning (n = 10), biological measures (n = 24), symptom measurement scales (n = 4) and treatment (n = 29). Several studies indicated that individuals with exhaustion disorder experience a range of psychiatric and somatic symptoms beyond fatigue, but robust findings within most thematic categories were scarce. The limited number of studies, lack of replication of findings and methodological limitations (e.g. small samples and scarcity of specified primary outcomes) preclude firm conclusions about the diagnostic construct.

Conclusions

More research is needed to build a solid knowledge base for exhaustion disorder. International collaboration regarding the conceptualisation of chronic stress and fatigue is warranted to accelerate the growth of evidence.
Adaptation, acceptability and feasibility of Problem Management Plus (PM+) intervention to promote the mental health of young people living with HIV in Kenya: formative mixed-methods research
Authors: Nyongesa Moses Kachama , Mwangome Eva , Mwangi Paul , Nasambu Carophine , Mbuthia Judy Wanjiru , Koot Hans M. , Cuijpers Pim , Newton Charles R. J. C. , Abubakar Amina
Published: August 2022

Background

Problem Management Plus (PM+) is a psychological intervention that seeks to address common mental disorders among individuals exposed to adversity. Thus far, the potential for delivering PM+ by mobile phones has not been evaluated.

Aims

To adapt PM+ for telephone delivery (ten weekly sessions of about 45 min each) and preliminarily evaluate its acceptability and feasibility with young people living with HIV (YLWH) in coastal Kenya.

Method

This was a mixed-method formative research. Qualitative data collection included consultations with stakeholders, conducting key informant interviews with HIV care providers and focus group discussions with potential end-users, i.e. YLWH. Moreover, brief exit interviews with recipients of the adapted PM+ were conducted. Quantitative acceptability and feasibility indicators and outcome measures were tracked/assessed during PM+ preliminary implementation involving 70 YLWH.

Results

From the qualitative inquiries, the adapted PM+ emerged as contextually appropriate, acceptable and feasible for mobile phone delivery, despite some concerns around missing nonverbal cues and poor network connectivity. High recruitment (85%) and fair programme retention (69%) were observed. Intervention sessions over the telephone lasted 46 min on average (range 42–55 min). Preliminary feasibility data indicated that the adapted PM+ has the potential of reducing common mental disorders among YLWH from the Kenyan coast.

Conclusions

PM+ is acceptable and can feasibly be delivered via mobile phone to YLWH in coastal Kenya. This study sets the stage for a future fully powered, randomised controlled trial assessing the efficacy of the adapted PM+ in this or a similar setting.
Bayesian Sample Size Planning Tool for Phase I Dose-Finding Trials
Authors: Lin Xiaolei , Lyu Jiaying , Yuan Shijie , Bi Dehua , Wang Sue-Jane , Ji Yuan
Published: August 2022

PURPOSE

Through Bayesian inference, we propose a method called BayeSize as a reference tool for investigators to assess the sample size and its associated scientific property for phase I clinical trials.

METHODS

BayeSize applies the concept of effect size in dose finding, assuming that the maximum tolerated dose can be identified on the basis of an interval surrounding its true value because of statistical uncertainty. Leveraging a decision framework that involves composite hypotheses, BayeSize uses two types of priors, the fitting prior (for model fitting) and sampling prior (for data generation), to conduct sample size calculation under the constraints of statistical power and type I error.

RESULTS

Simulation results showed that BayeSize can provide reliable sample size estimation under the constraints of type I/II error rates.

CONCLUSION

BayeSize could facilitate phase I trial planning by providing appropriate sample size estimation. Look-up tables and R Shiny app are provided for practical applications.
Refining Prognosis in Localized Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: Clinical Significance of Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog Low Expression and Gene Loss
Authors: Feng Xiaolan , Li Haocheng , Fourquet Joanna , Brahmi Mehdi , Dufresne Armelle , Meurgey Alexandra , Ray-Coquard Isabelle , Wang Qing , Bollard Julien , Ducimetiere Francoise , Chibon Frederic , Blay Jean-Yves
Published: August 2022

PURPOSE

To investigate the use of PTEN biomarker to improve prognostic stratification in patients with localized gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST).

METHODS

PTEN expression and genomic analysis were performed on two independent GIST-60 (n = 60) and GIST-100 (n = 100) cohorts, respectively.

RESULTS

PTEN expression was significantly lower in patients with local and metastatic recurrent tumor compared with those with no recurrence ( P = .004). PTEN low expression was significantly associated with poor disease-free survival (DFS) compared with PTEN high expression (43.73 v 117.95 months; P = .0084) and distant metastatic-free survival (DMFS; 57.95 v 117.95 months; P = .0032). PTEN heterozygous loss was observed in approximately 10% of the patients in each cohort and was associated with poor DFS compared with patients with PTEN normal status (27.56 months v not reached [NR]; P < .001) and DMFS (27.56 months v NR; P < .001). Multivariate analysis revealed that PTEN expression was an independent clinical prognosis factor besides tumor size, mitosis index, and location (hazard ratio for DFS: 3.8; P = .033; hazard ratio for DMFS 5.7, P = .01). Furthermore, PTEN low expression was independently associated with poor DMFS in clinically high-risk patients (mDMFS: 42.28 v 65.61 months; P = .0166). In addition, PTEN heterozygous loss was independently associated with poor DMFS in patients at either low/intermediate risk (mDMFS: 18.05 months for PTEN loss v NR for PTEN normal status; P < .001) or at high risk (mDMFS: 27.19 months for PTEN loss v 105.36 months for PTEN normal status; P = .044).

CONCLUSION

PTEN low expression/gene loss is an independent significant prognostic factor and a promising component to strengthen the clinical prognostic tools in patients with localized GIST.
The Morphology of Handel's Operas
Authors: Hume Robert D.
Published: August 2022

Little scholarly attention has been devoted to the dramaturgy of Handel's operas, which seems secondary to musical and circumstantial matters of venue and performers. This article argues that important things can be learned by attempting to categorize, analyze, and assess the librettos in strictly dramaturgical terms. We need to ask whether there is coherence or development, and what Handel wanted in the librettos he set. Handel's operas have generally been categorized by date and/or venue. Winton Dean categorized them by “dominant temper,” characterized as “heroic or dynastic,” “magic operas,” and “antiheroic.” By implication, Handel approached each opera on a case-by-case basis, not much concerned with generic form. Ellen T. Harris critiqued Dean and offered a dialectical model, dividing the operas into “pastoral” and “heroic” groups. But if we ask “What is the ‘source of action’ within each plot?,” we find four largely distinct groups: (1) villain or villainess; (2) intrigue complexities; (3) situational donné; and (4) character display. After nearly fifteen years of plot structures driven by villains, Handel began to experiment with quite different plot designs (though he did not change librettists). Handel's operas comprise, structurally, a series of mostly static scenes in which intense feelings (ambition, lust, hope, fear, doubt, pain, remorse, etc.) are expressed. The happy-ending convention in opera seria renders plot resolution secondary. Handel's operas are essentially situational rather than plot driven. They use dramatic situations over and over (e.g., supplication, deliverance, abduction, remorse, enmity of kinsmen, self-sacrifice). Handel is far more concerned with intense expression of emotion than with telling a story. In all four types of Handelian opera, quasi-ideal heroes or heroines are featured. In (1) they are threatened by the machinations of a villain; in (2) they find themselves entangled in intrigue; in (3) they are caught in the toils of fate or circumstances; and in (4) the aim is mostly just display of heroic character. Handel's bent was for situation and emotion rather than narrative and resolution. Great and stageable as the best of Handel's operas are, the English oratorio offered him a genre ultimately more congenial to his talents and inclinations.
Breaks in the Air
Authors: Klaess John
Published: August 2022

In Breaks in the Air John Klaess tells the story of rap’s emergence on New York City’s airwaves by examining how artists and broadcasters adapted hip hop’s performance culture to radio. Initially, artists and DJs brought their live practice to radio by buying time on low-bandwidth community stations and building new communities around their shows. Later, stations owned by New York’s African American elite, such as WBLS, reluctantly began airing rap even as they pursued a sound rooted in respectability, urban sophistication, and polish. At the same time, large commercial stations like WRKS programmed rap once it became clear that the music attracted a demographic that was valuable to advertisers. Moving between intimate portraits of single radio shows and broader examinations of the legal, financial, cultural, and political forces that indelibly shaped the sound of rap radio, Klaess shows how early rap radio provides a lens through which to better understand the development of rap music as well as the intertwined histories of sounds, institutions, communities, and legal formations that converged in the post-Civil Rights era.
Resection of the Cavernous Sinus Medial Wall Improves Remission Rate in Functioning Pituitary Tumors: Retrospective Analysis of 248 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Ishida Atsushi , Shiramizu Hideki , Yoshimoto Haruko , Kato Masataka , Inoshita Naoko , Miki Nobuhiro , Ono Masami , Yamada Shozo
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND:

The purpose of transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for a functioning pituitary tumor (FPT) is to achieve endocrinological remission. The biggest challenge is aggressive tumor resection invading the cavernous sinus (CS).

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the effects of the medial wall of CS (MWCS) resection during FPT surgery.

METHODS:

Consecutive FPTs were reviewed for CS invasion (CSI) between April 2018 and December 2021. We operated on more than 250 FPTs, including 134 somatotroph tumors, 70 corticotroph tumors, 35 lactotroph tumors, and 9 thyrotroph tumors.

RESULTS:

The patients were classified into 3 groups based on the relationship between the tumor and the CS: group A (no clear wall invasion), in which MWCS was not removed because of no tumorous direct contact with MWCS (N = 92) and group B (possible wall invasion), where MWCS was removed because we were not confident of MWCS invasion (N = 102). Among these 102 patients, histological tumor invasion was confirmed in 45 of 79 patients (57%) for whom histology findings were available. Tumors invading the CS clearly during surgery were classified into the “clear CS invasion” (group C: N = 55) group. The overall complete remission rate in group B was 94%, which was as high as that in group A (87%). Moreover, we clarified that microscopic invasion of MWCS could not always be predicted from Knosp grading.

CONCLUSION:

MWCS invasion occurred in 57% of cases confirmed histologically where it was unclear during surgery, and its resection can improve the overall complete remission rate in FPT cases.
Multiple-parameter MRI after neoadjuvant systemic therapy combining clinicopathologic features in evaluating axillary pathologic complete response in patients with clinically node-positive breast cancer
Authors: Chen Minglei , Xu Zeyan , Zhu Chao , Liu Yulin , Ye Yunrui , Liu Chen , Liu Zaiyi , Liang Changhong , Liu Chunling
Published: August 2022

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate axillary pathologic complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST) in clinically node-positive breast cancer (BC) patients based on post-NST multiple-parameter MRI and clinicopathological characteristics.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, females with clinically node-positive BC who received NST and followed by surgery between January 2017 and September 2021 were included. All axillary lymph nodes (ALNs) on MRI were matched with pathology by ALN markers or sizes. MRI morphological parameters, signal intensity curve (TIC) patterns and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of post-NST ALNs were measured. The clinicopathological characteristics was also collected and analyzed. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the independent predictors of axillary pCR.

Results:

Pathologically confirmed 137 non-pCR ALNs in 71 patients and 87 pCR ALNs in 87 patients were included in this study. Cortical thickness, fatty hilum, and TIC patterns of ALNs, hormone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status were significantly different between the two groups (all, p < 0.05). There was no significant difference for ADC values (p = 0.875). On multivariable analysis, TIC patterns (odds ratio [OR], 2.67, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.33, 5.34, p = 0.006), fatty hilum (OR, 2.88, 95% CI:1.39, 5.98, p = 0.004), hormone receptor (OR, 8.40, 95% CI: 2.48, 28.38, p = 0.001) and HER2 status (OR, 8.57, 95% CI: 3.85, 19.08, p < 0.001) were identified as independent predictors associated with axillary pCR. The area under the curve of the multivariate analysis using these predictors was 0.85 (95% CI: 0.79, 0.91).

Conclusion:

Combining post-NST multiple-parameter MRI and clinicopathological characteristics allowed more accurate identification of BC patients who had received axillary pCR after NST.

Advances in knowledge:

A combined model incorporated multiple-parameter MRI and clinicopathologic features demonstrated good performance in evaluating axillary pCR preoperatively and non-invasively.