bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The experimental study on the vibration of membrane structure under impact load
Authors: Liu Ping , Yang Xin-Feng , Li Dan
Published: January 2022

The present paper investigated the characteristic of the vibration of a membrane structure under impact load based on a series of experiments. Eight cases with different pretension forces by varying the pretension load in the lateral direction were carried out. The impact loads were applied on the center position of the membrane. The results of frequency, vibration amplitude, and damping ratio were discussed. It is shown that there is a main vibration mode with different main frequencies in the vibrations and the duration is the same under the different impact loads. The frequency is linear to the pretension force, and the amplitude of the vibration decreases by an exponential function determined by the parameter of the damping ratio. When the pretension force exceeded a threshold (6.2% of strength), the maximum amplitude and vibration duration tend to be a fixed value.
Personality Change Through Digital-Coaching Interventions
Authors: Allemand Mathias , Flückiger Christoph
Published: January 2022

A highly relevant but provocative research question is whether and how one can intentionally change personality traits through psychological interventions, given that traits are relatively stable by definition. Recently, research has begun to investigate personality change through intervention in nonclinical populations. One attractive and innovative interventional avenue may lie in using digital applications to guide and support people in their desire to change their personality and trigger change processes. This article provides a rationale for nonclinical personality-change interventions and discusses motivations to change, the potential of using digital applications for intervention efforts, key studies that illustrate this emerging field of research, and future directions.
Understanding Poverty and Survival Strategy among Ethiopian Pastoralists: The Boorana Pastoralists Perspectives
Authors: Dika Galgalo , Tolossa Degefa , Eyana Shiferaw Muleta
Published: January 2022

Poverty is often assessed using rigorous economic methods in the extant literature. Nonetheless, understanding poverty through supposedly rigorous economic methods per se is not sufficient. This study argues that Boorana pastoralist’s knowledge of poverty and its survival strategy provides foundations to understand poverty. The article was based on a dominantly qualitative mixed research approach to understand poverty from the perspectives of pastoralists in an African context (Ethiopia). Different participatory poverty assessment methods, like focus group discussions and interviews were used. The interviews were conducted with case study households and key informants. The data were analysed by descriptions of responses and narrations of cases. The results showed that pastoralists perceive poverty as a lack of livestock, low health, lack of money, lack of education and jobs. The findings also showed that climate change and variability, deterioration of pasture and water resources, lack of education and overutilisation of resources were the main causes of poverty. Boorana pastoralists perceive that diversification of income sources, crop cultivation, improvements to pastoral education, destocking and returning to forefathers’ cultural practices can be the main survival strategy of pastoralists against poverty. Therefore, there is a need to understand the dynamics of pastoral poverty for appropriate policy interventions.
A Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Dietary Fiber Intake and Breast Cancer Risk
Authors: Xu Kedi , Sun Qiuyu , Shi Ziang , Zou Yuanlin , Jiang Xiaoru , Wang Yanli , Chong Feifei , Song Chunhua
Published: January 2022

Whether dietary fiber intake could reduce the risk of breast cancer (BC) is still controversial. The articles related to breast cancer and dietary fiber were retrieved through PubMed and Web of Science database. Summary relative risk (RR) and attributable risk percentage (ARP) for dietary fiber intake on the development of breast cancer were calculated. Dose-response meta-analysis modeled the relationship between dietary fiber intake and breast cancer risk. A total of 10 studies were included in this study. Meta-analysis showed that dietary fiber intake was negatively associated with breast cancer (RR = 0.83). In dose-response analysis, the risk of breast cancer showed a statistically significant linear trend with increasing dietary fiber dose: when adding 10 g per day, the risk decreased by 4.7% (RR = 0.95). The ARP results demonstrated that the breast cancer dietary fiber–attributed percentage was 33.33% in Asia, which was higher than 16.28% in North America and 9.89% in Europe. In conclusion, dietary fiber intake may have a positive effect on reducing breast cancer risk, especially in high doses.
The Influence of Palliative Care in Hospital Length of Stay and the Timing of Consultation
Authors: Davis Mellar P. , Van Enkevort Erin A. , Elder Alexander , Young Amanda , Correa Ordonez Irina D. , Wojtowicz Mark J , Ellison Halle , Fernandez Carlos , Mehta Zankhana
Published: January 2022

Background

Inpatient palliative care may reduce length-of-stay, costs, mortality, and prevent readmissions. Timing of consultation may influence outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore the timing of consultation and its influences patient outcomes.

Method

This retrospective study of hospital consultations between July 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019 compared patients seen within 72 hours of admission with those seen after 72 hours. Outcomes length of stay and mortality. Chi-square analyses for categorical variables and independent t-tests for continuous normally distributed variables were done. For nonparametrically distributed outcome variables, Wilcoxon rank sum test was used. For mortality, a time-to-event analysis was used. 30-day readmissions were assessed using the Fine-Gray sub-distribution hazard model. Multiple regression models were used, controlling for other variables.

Results

696 patients were seen, 424 within 72 hours of admission. The average age was 73 and 50.6% were female. Consultation within 72 hours was not associated with a shorter stay for cancer but was for patients with non-cancer illnesses. Inpatient mortality and 30-days mortality were reduced but there was a higher 30-day readmission rate.

Discussion

Palliative consultations within 72 hours of admission was associated with lower hospital stays and inpatient mortality but increased the risk of readmission. Benefits were largely observed in patients followed in continuity.

Conclusion

Early inpatient palliative care consultation was associated with reduced hospital mortality, 30-day mortality and length of stay particularly if patients were seen by palliative care prior to hospitalization.
Understanding Relationships Between Fetal Health Locus of Control (FHLC) and Maternal Marijuana Use During Pregnancy
Authors: Murnan Aaron , Keim Sarah , Klebanoff Mark
Published: January 2022

The objective of this study was to examine relationships between maternal perceptions of Fetal Health Locus of Control (FHLC) and perceived risk/benefit related to prenatal marijuana use with maternal marijuana use behaviors during pregnancy. The sample included women seeking prenatal care at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (OSUWMC, Columbus OH) between 2010 and 2015, who participated in a follow-up study (2019–2020). Logistic regression models were run to estimate associations between maternal perceptions and prenatal marijuana use behaviors. Higher perceived benefit to mother (AOR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.08–2.17) and lower perceived risk to children (AOR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.45–0.78) were related to increased prenatal marijuana use, adjusted for confounders. In contrast, FHLC perceptions were not associated with maternal marijuana use; however, FHLC predicted women’s perceptions of risk and benefit which in turn was associated with marijuana use during pregnancy. Understanding how maternal perceptions influence health-related risk behaviors during pregnancy is important because perceptions are feasible intervention targets.
Association of Normal vs Abnormal Meary Angle With Hindfoot Malalignment and First Metatarsal Rotation: A Short Report
Authors: Steadman Jesse , Bakshi Neil , Philippi Matthew , Arena Christopher , Leake Richard , Barg Alexej , Saltzman Charles L.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Recent work has reported a significant association between first metatarsal (M1) rotation and hindfoot alignment, with the finding of a moderate association between the calcaneal moment arm (CMA) and 2 M1 pronation angular measures: Saltzman ( r = 0.641, P < .01) and Kim ( r = 0.615, P < .01). The aim of the current post hoc investigation was to determine if this association is related with Meary angle.

Methods:

We reanalyzed previously published data set separating patients into 2 groups: (1) those with normal Meary angle (n = 128) and (2) those with abnormal Meary angle (n = 147). Hindfoot alignment and M1 rotation were measured on weightbearing computed tomography. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate for association between these variables among the groups.

Results:

The correlation between CMA and M1 rotation of the entire cohort was r = 0.577 (Saltzman ankle) and r = 0.540 (Kim angle). For the subset with a normal Meary angle, this association was negligible (Saltzman and Kim angles, r = 0.194 and 0.240, respectively). Conversely, for the abnormal Meary angle subset, the association was substantial (Saltzman and Kim angles, r = 0.733 and 0.675, respectively).

Conclusion:

Patients presenting with an abnormal Meary angle and hindfoot deformity have a high likelihood of manifesting a proportionate degree of M1 rotation.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, Retrospective Cohort Study.
Breaking the Cycle of Intergenerational Childhood Maltreatment: Effects on Offspring Mental Health
Authors: Islam Samiha , Jaffee Sara R. , Widom Cathy S.
Published: January 2022

This study evaluated how continuities and discontinuities in the intergenerational transmission of maltreatment affect offspring psychopathology. Data from a multigenerational prospective, longitudinal study were used to compare the severity of offspring psychopathology in families with no history of maltreatment ( controls) and those in which parents, offspring, or both experienced childhood maltreatment ( cycle breakers, initiators, and maintainers, respectively). Participants included 454 parents ( M age = 47.1, SDage = 3.4) and their 697 offspring ( M age = 22.3, SDage = 6.3). Offspring of cycle breakers reported less psychopathology than offspring of cycle maintainers and did not report more psychopathology than offspring of controls. Offspring of cycle initiators and maintainers reported comparable levels of psychopathology. Results suggest that breaking the cycle of maltreatment buffers offspring from risk for psychopathology associated with parental maltreatment, with no enduring or additive effects of maltreatment across generations. Our findings highlight the need for maltreatment prevention programs and further research to identify conditions and characteristics that reduce the probability of intergenerational transmission.
Accelerating Cancer Patient Recruitment Through a Mobile Application (Clinical Trial Finder)
Authors: Mudaranthakam Dinesh Pal , Alsup Alexander M , Murakonda Vinay , Lin Tara , Thompson Jeffrey , Gajewski Byron , Mayo Matthew S
Published: January 2022

Objective:

Participant recruitment is a challenge for any clinical trial but is especially complex in cancer specifically due to the need to initiate treatment urgently. Most participants enrolled in oncology clinical trials are identified as potential participants by the oncologist or other referring provider. Optimal clinical care for patients with cancer includes consideration of participation in a clinical trial. However, the process of finding a clinical trial that is appropriate the patient can be cumbersome and time consuming.

Material and Methods:

The University of Kansas Cancer Center has developed a mobile application (app) which streamlines the clinical trial search process for physicians, patients, and caregivers by cohesively integrating all clinical trials currently recruiting in the center and making them easy to browse.

Results:

Key aspects of the app include simple filtering options, the ability to search for trials by name, easily accessible assistance, and in-app referral by phone or email. Initial feedback on the app has been very positive, with several suggestions already being implemented in future development. The app was designed to be used both by physicians to find trials, as well as patients in collaboration with their physicians.

Conclusion:

While long-term results will be crucial to understanding how the app can best serve our patient population, our initial results suggest that health system specific clinical trial apps can address a currently unmet need in the clinical trial recruitment process.
Mutual-radiation efficiency estimation of vibration modes by finite element method and boundary element method software
Authors: Wei Lai , Li Sheng
Published: January 2022

When the structure is forced to vibrate and multiple modes exist simultaneously, each vibration mode contributes to the total acoustic power radiated by the structure. Moreover, the acoustic radiation of each vibration mode is not independent of each other, and the coupling between them will also have an impact on the total radiated power. Mutual-radiation efficiency is an important metric to measure the ability of the coupling of different modes to radiate. In this note, for both real and complex modes, a method to calculate the mutual-radiation efficiencies by finite element method and boundary element method software is presented. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate and validate the approach.
Antibacterial effect of electrospun polyurethane-gelatin loaded with honey and ZnO nanoparticles as potential wound dressing
Authors: Abolhassani Sareh , Alipour Hamed , Alizadeh Aliakbar , Nemati Mohammad Mehdi , Najafi Hanieh , Alavi Omid
Published: January 2022

Damage to the skin makes the body vulnerable to microorganisms; wound dressings with desirable properties such as antibacterial activity is used in order to accelerate the healing of the injury. An available natural substance investigated for its antibacterial property is honey; also, zinc-oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have shown great antibacterial activities. This study investigated some properties of PU-Gel nanofibrous membranes, loaded with honey and ZnO-NPs, including antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis, mechanical properties and cell proliferation. The results indicate that PU/Gel/ZnO and PU/Gel/ZnO/H are suitable in inhibiting bacterial growth compared with PU/Gel/H and control membranes. Moreover, PU/Gel/H membranes had considerable antibacterial effect on E-coli. The addition of ZnO-NPs improved the mechanical properties. Cell culture studies (MTT test) proved the biocompatibility of the developed nanofibrous membranes. The obtained nanofibrous membrane PU/Gel/ZnO/H is a promising candidate for the development of improved bandage materials.
A hybrid cooperative navigation method for UAV swarm based on factor graph and Kalman filter
Authors: Chen Mingxing , Xiong Zhi , Xiong Jun , Wang Rong
Published: January 2022

Navigation plays an important role in the task execution of the micro-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarm. The Cooperative Navigation (CN) method that fuses the observation of onboard sensors and relative information between UAVs is a research hotspot. Aiming at the efficiency and accuracy problems of previous studies, this article proposes a hybrid-CN method for UAV swarm based on Factor Graph and Kalman filter. A global Factor Graph is used to combine Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and ranging information to provide position estimations for modifying the distributed Kalman filter; distributed Kalman filter is established on each UAV to fuse inertial information and optimized position estimation to modify the navigation states. In order to provide time-consistent GNSS position information for the Factor Graph, a time synchronization filter is designed. The proposed method is tested and verified using standard Monte Carlo simulations, simulation results show that it can provide a more precise and efficient CN solution than traditional CN methods.
Extraction, Isolation and Characterization by HPLC-ESI-MS and Evaluating Chemical Constituents of Hydroalcoholic Extracts of the Invasive Weed Cleome viscosa L.
Authors: Gholamalipour Alamdari Ebrahim , Avarseji Zeinab , Taleghani Akram
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to extract, identify and isolate the chemical constituents of the root and leaves of Cleome viscosa by liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS). The antioxidant activity and content of associated secondary metabolites in the extracts from different parts of the plant were also measured. The free radical scavenging activity of the methanol extracts of different parts of C viscosa was determined using DPPH assays. A wide range of polar and non- polar compounds were characterized by LC-ESI-MS. Based on the obtained results, 22 and 21 compounds were characterized in the extracts of leaf and root of C viscosa, respectively. Among these compounds, cleomeolide and 57,4′.trihydroxy-6,3.5-trimethoxyflavone, in the leaf extract, and nevirapine and vincetoxicoside A, in the root extract, were considered as main compounds. Phytochemical analysis also showed that the content of bioactive compounds varied remarkably in the extract of different parts of C viscosa. The leaf ethanol extract contained higher amounts of secondary metabolites, namely total phenols and flavonoids. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was also dependent on the plant parts, which was significantly correlated with the content of bioactive compounds studied. A strong free radical scavenging activity was observed for the methanol extract of the leaf (50.3%), followed by the flower (35.2%). In general, this study confirmed a wide range of compounds in different parts of the invasive weed C viscosa, especially in the leaf, with a high free radical scavenging activity.
The Role of Homeless Shelter Workers: A Study of Staff Serving Homeless Veterans
Authors: Yamada Mieko
Published: January 2022

This study examines how shelter workers who serve formerly homeless veterans perceive their experiences and performances related to their workplace. Previous research shows that perceived social support is strongly related to self-efficacy, work morale, and job satisfaction among workers. Interviews administered to homeless shelter workers reveal how they engage in daily tasks and recognize support systems at work. Results show that homeless shelter workers experience positive outcomes associated with their profession while they feel significant challenges and confrontations posed by clients. Acknowledging the critical role of the homeless shelter workforce in addressing veteran homelessness, this study emphasizes the importance of offering effective staff trainings. To support the homeless shelter workforce and develop its capacity, organizational effort should focus on promoting social support and protecting staff well-being.
Hypothermically Stored Amniotic Membrane for the Treatment of Cartilage Lesions: A Single-Arm Prospective Study with 2-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Tabet Samuel K. , Kimmerling Kelly A. , Hale Galen J. , Munson Natalie R. , Mowry Katie C.
Published: January 2022

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of hypothermically stored amniotic membrane (HSAM) for the treatment of cartilage lesions of the knee using imaging, patient-reported outcomes (PROs), second-look arthroscopy, and histology. Patients were treated with HSAM and followed for 2 years.

Design

Subjects with focal chondral lesions of the femur (International Cartilage Repair Society grade 3-4) were enrolled in this single-arm prospective study. Standard of care imaging was completed. PROs, including the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Marx Activity Scale, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS), were collected at baseline and at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Three subjects underwent an optional arthroscopy and biopsy of the repair at 24 months.

Results

Ten subjects were enrolled and completed the study. At 24 months, KOOS Sports & Recreation improved 173.3% and Quality of Life improved 195.3% from baseline. Marx Activity Scale increased 266.8% from 12 to 24 months. VAS scores improved 84.8% and 81.0% from baseline to 24 months for average and maximum pain. Modified Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) scoring showed that 7 of 10 subjects had complete defect repair and filling by 24 months. Biopsy staining for collagen II revealed integration and remodeling of HSAM into a mix of hyaline-like cartilage and fibrocartilage matrix.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of HSAM for treating symptomatic cartilage lesions. Subjects showed a high degree of defect fill and integration with the native cartilage and reported improvements in pain and function post-treatment. Results provide important original data for future clinical trials.
Cross Cultural Adaptation and Cognitive Testing of a Psycho-Social-Spiritual Healing Measure, the NIH Healing Experiences in All Life Stressors-NIH-HEALS
Authors: Namisango Eve , Luyirika Emmanuel B. K. , Berger Ann
Published: January 2022

Background

Cancer is associated with trauma and stress which impacts the physical, psychological, and spiritual/existential well-being of patients. Psychological/behavioral healing may help alleviate this distress and the associated health-related suffering. Psycho-Social-Spiritual healing outcome measures are thus needed to stimulate service development. The NIH Healing Experiences in All Life Stressors (NIH-HEALS), is a novel 35-item measure of psycho-social-spiritual healing, developed in USA and is yet to be validated and adapted for use in African countries.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the face and content validity of the NIH-HEALS in the population of cancer patients in Uganda and to culturally adapt this measure.

Methods

Cross-sectional study using cognitive interviewing alongside standard piloting. We recruited adult (18 years and above) patients with advanced cancer from Hospice Africa Uganda. Interviews were conducted in two phases, using the think aloud technique and concurrent probing and were audio recorded. Phase 1 was used to identify initial concerns around clarity of the statements, and phase 2 further explored whether the issues of clarity had been addressed, alongside the standard cognitive interview parameters. The transcripts were imported into NVivo-12 analyzed using the content analysis technique and categorized using Tourengeau’s information processing model.

Results

We recruited thirty-five (35) patients: phase one (n = 5) two (n = 30). The median completion time was 20 minutes. Problems identified included comprehension of some statements, words, and phrases, suggestions to include local examples, highlighting of potentially sensitive statements that lean towards difficult conversations, and some cultural differences in the construction of the “Trust and Acceptance” construct, our sample showed less emphasis on family/friend relations. This feedback was used to adapt the NIH-HEALS for the local context.

Conclusion

The NIH-HEALS has sufficient face and content validity properties to be used among palliative cancer patients in Uganda. We propose some changes to inform the adaptation of this measure for the local context.
Ethical leadership, ethical dilemmas and decision making among school administrators
Authors: Arar Khalid , Saiti Anna
Published: January 2022

Ethical dilemmas are an inevitable element in decision making. For school organizations, the emergence of an ethical dilemma in decision making is almost a daily occurrence. The purpose of this research is to reveal the impact of ethical leadership on leaders’ decision making by comparing two samples of school administrators in the Israeli education system using the Ethical Leadership Questionnaire. The research questions were about the factors that influence ethical decision making. They were used to investigate whether or not personal characteristics have any influential role on ethical decision making and whether there are any differences between the two cultures that affect ethical decision making and the dimensions of ethical leadership. The results of this study revealed that ethical leadership and the moral behavior of school members have only positive effects on the evaluation and interpretation of social values, the better treatment of moral dilemmas and the enhancement of ethical decision making. Moreover, in both cases, high positive correlations were found with the variables ethic critique, sensitivity and culture, and the ethic of care. The dimensions of ethical leadership, and hence the ways ethical dilemmas are handled, present similarities between the two cultures.
Gastric ultrasound for feeding intolerance in the ICU: close but not quite right
Authors: Vernieuwe Lynn , Wallyn An , Van Dyck Lisa , Van de Putte Peter
Published: January 2022

In the January 2021 issue of BMC Gastroenterology, Elmokadem et al. report their findings on the use of gastric ultrasound (GUS) for the evaluation of feeding intolerance—defined as high gastric residual volume—in critically ill patients. We voice in this correspondence our concerns regarding certain methodological flaws and believe the study results should be interpreted with caution. The authors applied a model unvalidated for non-clear fluids as enteral feeding, the scanning protocol was not clearly described and essential anatomical landmarks required for correct interpretation are not visible in the presented images. Additionally, since GUS was not compared to a gold standard, we believe the authors’ conclusion may be overoptimistic and does not undoubtedly answer the primary outcome.
Effects of family relationship and social support on the mental health of Chinese postpartum women
Authors: Qi Weijing , Liu Yan , Lv Huicong , Ge Jun , Meng Yucui , Zhao Nan , Zhao Fuqing , Guo Qing , Hu Jie
Published: January 2022

Background

Numerous studies suggest that interpersonal relationships and social support influence the development of postpartum depression and sleep quality for women. However, the effect of support from the husband or the mother-in-law has not been thoroughly validated. The current study examined the relative contribution of marital satisfaction, perceived caring of the mother-in-law, and social support on postpartum depression and sleep quality simultaneously in a path model.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2017 in Hebei, China, using a self-report questionnaire. A total of 817 women participated at 6 weeks postpartum. Sociodemographics and information about marital satisfaction, perceived caring of the mother-in-law, social support, postpartum depression, and sleep were collected. Path analysis was used to analyze the cross-sectional data.

Results

The final model had a highly satisfactory fit. Marital satisfaction and perceived caring of mother-in-law had both direct and indirect effects on postpartum depression through social support, but these two variables had only an indirect effect on sleep quality through social support and postpartum depression. Sleep quality is a consequence of postpartum depression at 6 weeks after delivery. The prevalence of minor and major postpartum depressive symptoms at 6 weeks postpartum was 41.49 and 23.13%, respectively. A total of 371 (45.41%) women experienced sleep disturbance at 6 weeks postpartum.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that interpersonal relationships with family members play important roles in postpartum depression and sleep quality through social support in Chinese women. Improving the relationship between new mothers and their husbands or mothers-in-law and then enhancing social support might reduce postpartum depression and sleep disturbance.
The influence of docetaxel schedule on treatment tolerability and efficacy in patients with metastatic breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: van Eijk Maarten , Vermunt Marit A. C. , van Werkhoven Erik , Wilthagen Erica A. , Huitema Alwin D. R. , Beijnen Jos H.
Published: January 2022

Background

Administration of single-agent docetaxel in a weekly schedule may offer similar efficacy, with a more favorable toxicity profile, compared to a three-weekly schedule in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Methods

The original search of Medline, Embase, and Scopus was performed in September 2018 and references were updated with additional searches up to January 2021. Two reviewers independently screened the identified literature based on a predefined set of criteria.

Randomized controlled trials investigating the use of weekly versus three-weekly docetaxel in metastatic breast cancer patients were included.

Results

Four randomized controlled trials (N = 459 patients) were included in the final analyses. No significant differences were found in terms of objective response rate (risk ratio (RR) 0.75, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.54 – 1.05), progression-free survival (hazard ratio (HR) 0.95, 95% CI: 0.71 – 1.26) or overall survival (HR 0.95, 95% CI: 0.70 – 1.29) between weekly and three-weekly docetaxel, respectively. Weekly docetaxel was associated with a significantly lower risk of grade 3/4 neutropenia (RR 0.16, 95% CI: 0.10 – 0.27), febrile neutropenia (RR 0.21, 95% CI: 0.08 – 0.55), and neuropathy (RR 0.29, 95% CI: 0.11 – 0.78). Although the risk of epiphora (≥ grade 3/leading to treatment withdrawal, RR 3.62, 95% CI: 1.07–12.22) and onycholysis (≥ grade 2/leading to treatment withdrawal, RR 3.90, 95% CI: 1.34 – 11.32) was increased.

Conclusions

Weekly docetaxel is associated with a lower risk of neutropenia, febrile neutropenia and neuropathy than the three-weekly docetaxel schedule in metastatic breast cancer patients. However, the risk of onycholysis, epiphora, and treatment discontinuation seems increased with weekly administration. No significant differences in efficacy outcomes were found. Weekly docetaxel might be an alternative for patients at risk for developing neutropenia.
Correction to: The disposable bandage soft contact lenses therapy and anterior segment optical coherence tomography for management of ocular graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Sun Yi-Chen , Inamoto Yoshihiro , Wang Ruikang K. , Lee Stephanie J. , Hung Kai-Feng , Shen Tueng T.
Published: January 2022

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Effect of ambient temperature on outpatient admission for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in a subtropical Chinese city
Authors: Zhao Desheng , Cheng Jian , Bao Ping , Zhang Yanwu , Liang Fengjuan , Wang Hao , Wang Xu , Fang Shiyuan , Su Hong
Published: January 2022

Background

Current findings on the impact of weather conditions on osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are sparse and not conclusive. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between temperature change and OA/RA admission.

Methods

Daily OA/RA admission, meteorological data and pollutants from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2017 in Hefei, China, were collected. We quantified the relationship between ambient temperature and OA/RA admission using a distributed lag nonlinear model (DLNM). Stratified analyses by gender and age were also examined.

Results

Temperature decrease was significantly associated with RA admission (25th percentile of temperature versus 50th percentile of temperature), with the acute and largest effect at current days lag (RR: 1.057, 95%CI: 1.005–1.111). However, no significant association between temperature and OA admission was observed. When conducting subgroup analyses by individual characteristics, we found that females and patients aged 41–65 years were more vulnerable to temperature decrease than males, patients aged 0–40 and ≧66 years, respectively.

Conclusions

This study suggested that temperature decrease was a risk factor for increases in RA admission. Females and patients aged 41–65 years were particularly vulnerable to the effect of temperature decrease.
Anemia prevalence, severity, types, and correlates among adult women and men in a multiethnic Iranian population: the Khuzestan Comprehensive Health Study (KCHS)
Authors: Akbarpour Elham , Paridar Yousef , Mohammadi Zahra , Mard Ali , Danehchin Leila , Abolnezhadian Farhad , Azadpour Shima , Rahimi Zahra , Zamani Mohammad , Cheraghian Bahman , Poustchi Hossein , Shayesteh Ali-Akbar
Published: January 2022

Background

Despite all recent health-related improvements, anemia remains an extensive global public health issue affecting the lives of about one-fourth of the world population in a geographically heterogeneous pattern. We, therefore, aimed to illustrate the prevalence, severity, most common types, and major determinants of anemia among adults in Khuzestan, Iran, from 2016 to 2019.

Methods

In a large population-based cross-sectional study comprising of a diverse population, each participant underwent a questionnaire-based interview and laboratory testing for hematological analysis. A hemoglobin (HGB) concentration of < 12 g/dL in non-pregnant women and < 13 g/dL in men were defined anemic. The multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the association between anemia and its potential determinants.

Results

Data on 29,550 (96.87%) males and non-pregnant females between 20–65 years of age (mean age: 41.90 ± 11.88 years; female sex: 63.58%; Arab ethnicity: 48.65%), whose HGB level was available, were included in the study. The mean ± SD HGB concentration was 13.75 ± 1.65 g/dL. The age- and sex-standardized prevalence rate of anemia was 10.86% (95% CI: 10.51–11.23%). The most prevalent degree was mild anemia (7.71%, 95% CI: 7.40–8.03%) and only 0.17% were severely anemic. Of those considered anemic, the highest proportion was related to normochromic/microcytic (50.65%), followed by hypochromic/microcytic (30.29%).

In the multiple logistic regression, the parameters of female gender (OR: 3.17, 95% CI: 2.68–3.76), age group of 35–49 years (OR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.52–1.82), being underweight (OR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.29–1.93), being unemployed or retired (OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.33–1.81), and living in urban areas (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.09–1.29) were major determinants of anemia. Additionally, we observed a minor but significant positive association between anemia status and CKD, older ages, increased night sleep duration, being a housewife and married, as well as a negative association between anemia and factors including hookah smoking, presence of metabolic syndrome, and overweight and obesity.

Conclusions

Taken together, the anemia prevalence in this study population was of mild public health significance. The major suspected causes might be iron deficiency and chronic disease anemias. Comparably higher rates of anemia were observed amongst women, individuals aged 35–49 years, underweights, unemployed or retired subjects, and urban residents.
Non-linear associations between healthy Nordic foods and all-cause mortality in the NOWAC study: a prospective study
Authors: Enget Jensen Torill M. , Braaten Tonje , Jacobsen Bjarne K. , Skeie Guri
Published: January 2022

Background

The shape of the associations between intake of foods basic in a healthy Nordic diet and long-term health is not well known. Therefore, we have examined all-cause mortality in a large, prospective cohort of women in Norway in relation to intake of: Nordic fruits and vegetables, fatty fish, lean fish, wholegrain products, and low-fat dairy products.

Methods

A total of 83 669 women who completed a food frequency questionnaire between 1996 and 2004 were followed up for mortality until the end of 2018. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to examine the associations between consumption of the Nordic food groups and all-cause mortality. The Nordic food groups were examined as categorical exposures, and all but wholegrain products also as continuous exposures in restricted cubic spline models.

Results

A total of 8 507 women died during the 20-year follow-up period. Nordic fruits and vegetables, fatty fish and low-fat dairy products were observed to be non-linearly associated with all-cause mortality, while higher intake of lean fish and wholegrain products reduced all-cause mortality. Intake levels and hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) associated with lowest mortality were approximately 200 g/day of Nordic fruits and vegetables (HR 0.83 (95% CI: 0.77–0.91)), 10–20 g/day of fatty fish (10 g/day: HR 0.98 (95% CI: 0.94–1.02)) and 200 g/day of low-fat dairy products (HR 0.96 (95% CI: 0.81–1.01)) compared to no consumption. Consumption of fatty fish ≥ 60 g/day compared to no intake statistically significantly increased the mortality (60 g/day: HR 1.08 (95% CI: 1.01–1.16)), as did consumption of low-fat dairy products ≥ 800 g/day compared to no intake (800 g/day: HR 1.10 (95% CI: 1.02–1.20)). After stratification by smoking status, the observed association between Nordic fruits and vegetables and all-cause mortality was stronger in ever smokers.

Conclusion

The associations between intake of foods basic in healthy Nordic diets and all-cause mortality may be non-linear. Therefore, assumptions of linear associations between traditional Nordic food groups and health outcomes could lead to wrong conclusions in analyses of healthy Nordic diets.
Efficacy of the SOAR knee health program: protocol for a two-arm stepped-wedge randomized delayed-controlled trial
Authors: Whittaker Jackie L. , Truong Linda K. , Losciale Justin M. , Silvester-Lee Trish , Miciak Maxi , Pajkic Andrea , Le Christina Y. , Hoens Alison M. , Mosewich Amber , Hunt Michael A. , Li Linda C. , Roos Ewa M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Knee trauma permanently elevates one’s risk for knee osteoarthritis. Despite this, people at-risk of post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis rarely seek or receive care, and accessible and efficacious interventions to promote knee health after injury are lacking. Exercise can ameliorate some mechanisms and independent risk factors for osteoarthritis and, education and action-planning improve adherence to exercise and promote healthy behaviours.

Methods

To assess the efficacy of a virtually-delivered, physiotherapist-guided exercise-based program (SOAR) to improve knee health in persons discharged from care after an activity-related knee injury, 70 people (16–35 years of age, 12–48 months post-injury) in Vancouver Canada will be recruited for a two-arm step-wedged assessor-blinded delayed-control randomized trial. Participants will be randomly allocated to receive the intervention immediately or after a 10-week delay. The program consists of 1) one-time Knee Camp (group education, 1:1 individualized exercise and activity goal-setting); 2) weekly individualized home-based exercise and activity program with tracking, and; 3) weekly 1:1 physiotherapy-guided action-planning with optional group exercise class. Outcomes will be measured at baseline, 9- (primary endpoint), and 18-weeks. The primary outcome is 9-week change in knee extension strength (normalized peak concentric torque; isokinetic dynamometer). Secondary outcomes include 9-week change in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (accelerometer) and self-reported knee-related quality-of-life (Knee injury and OA Outcome Score subscale) and self-efficacy (Knee Self Efficacy Scale). Exploratory outcomes include 18-week change in primary and secondary outcomes, and 9- and 18- week change in other components of knee extensor and flexor muscle function, hop function, and self-reported symptoms, function, physical activity, social support, perceived self-care and kinesiophobia. Secondary study objectives will assess the feasibility of a future hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial protocol, determine the optimal intervention length, and explore stakeholder experiences.

Discussion

This study will assess the efficacy of a novel, virtually-delivered, physiotherapist-guided exercise-based program to optimize knee health in persons at increased risk of osteoarthritis due to a past knee injury. Findings will provide valuable information to inform the management of osteoarthritis risk after knee trauma and the conduct of a future effectiveness-implementation trial.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov reference: NTC04956393. Registered August 5, 2021,https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04956393?term=SOAR&cond=osteoarthritis&cntry=CA&city=Vancouver&draw=2&rank=1
Weightbearing after combined medial and lateral plate fixation of AO/OTA 41-C2 bicondylar tibial plateau fractures: a biomechanical study
Authors: Thamyongkit Sorawut , Abbasi Pooyan , Parks Brent G. , Shafiq Babar , Hasenboehler Erik A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Combined medial and lateral plate fixation is recommended for complex tibial plateau fractures with medial fragments or no cortical bone contact. Although such fixation is adequate to resist forces during range of motion, it may be insufficient to support immediate postoperative weightbearing. Here, we analyzed displacement, stiffness, and fixation failure during simulated full weightbearing of bicondylar tibial plateau fractures treated with combined medial and lateral locking plate fixation.

Methods

We used 10 fresh-frozen adult human cadaveric tibias and mated femurs. Osteotomies were performed with an oscillating saw and cutting template to simulate an AO Foundation and Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) 41-C2 fracture (simple articular, multifragmentary metaphyseal fracture). Specimens were anatomically reduced and stabilized with combined medial and lateral locking plates (AxSOS, Stryker, Mahwah, NJ). Specimens were loaded axially to simulate 4 weeks of walking in a person weighing 70 kg. The specimens were cyclically loaded from 200 N to a maximum of 2800 N. Then, if no failure, loading continued for 200,000 cycles. We measured displacement of each bone fragment and defined fixation failure as ≥5 mm of displacement. Construct stiffness and load at failure were calculated. Categorical and continuous data were analyzed using Chi-squared and unpaired t-tests, respectively.

Results

Mean total displacement values after 10,000 loading cycles were as follows: lateral, 0.4 ± 0.8 mm; proximal medial, 0.3 ± 0.7 mm; distal medial, 0.3 ± 0.6 mm; and central 0.4 ± 0.5 mm. Mean stiffness of the construct was 562 ± 164 N/mm. Fixation failure occurred in 6 of 10 specimens that reached 5 mm of plastic deformation before test completion. In the failure group, the mean load at failure was 2467 ± 532 N, and the mean number of cycles before failure was 53,155. After test completion, the greatest displacement was found at the distal medial fracture site (2.3 ± 1.4 mm) and lateral fracture site (2.2 ± 1.7 mm).

Conclusions

Although combined medial and lateral plate fixation of complex tibial plateau fractures provides adequate stability to allow early range of motion, immediate full weightbearing is not recommended.
Correlations of external social capital in social organizations providing integrated eldercare services with medical care in China
Authors: Tang Ling , Bai Zhongliang , Ji Kai , Zhu Ying , Chen Ren
Published: January 2022

Background

This study aimed to explore the external social capital of social organizations (SOs) providing integrated eldercare services with medical care in Anhui Province, China. Specifically, we studied the current situation and influencing factors of external social capital and its six dimensions.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in Anhui Province, China using a multi-stage stratified random sampling method. We employed Pearson correlation analysis and a binary logistic regression model.

Results

The final analysis included 49 SOs. Most organizations had a high score in norm dimension (81.6%), participation (61.2%), trust (65.3%), common language (65.3%), and social capital (63.3%). After adjusting for all covariate variables, integrated eldercare services with medical care SOs which served more than 65 elderly people were likely to report lower score in social capital.

Conclusions

By examining the current situation of integrated eldercare services with medical care SOs in China, this study enriched the relevant evidence of integrated medical and nursing SOs and provides a certain reference value for relevant management departments when formulating policies.
The velvet worm brain unveils homologies and evolutionary novelties across panarthropods
Authors: Martin Christine , Jahn Henry , Klein Mercedes , Hammel Jörg U. , Stevenson Paul A. , Homberg Uwe , Mayer Georg
Published: January 2022

Background

The evolution of the brain and its major neuropils in Panarthropoda (comprising Arthropoda, Tardigrada and Onychophora) remains enigmatic. As one of the closest relatives of arthropods, onychophorans are regarded as indispensable for a broad understanding of the evolution of panarthropod organ systems, including the brain, whose anatomical and functional organisation is often used to gain insights into evolutionary relations. However, while numerous recent studies have clarified the organisation of many arthropod nervous systems, a detailed investigation of the onychophoran brain with current state-of-the-art approaches is lacking, and further inconsistencies in nomenclature and interpretation hamper its understanding. To clarify the origins and homology of cerebral structures across panarthropods, we analysed the brain architecture in the onychophoran Euperipatoides rowelli by combining X-ray micro-computed tomography, histology, immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, and three-dimensional reconstruction.

Results

Here, we use this detailed information to generate a consistent glossary for neuroanatomical studies of Onychophora. In addition, we report novel cerebral structures, provide novel details on previously known brain areas, and characterise further structures and neuropils in order to improve the reproducibility of neuroanatomical observations. Our findings support homology of mushroom bodies and central bodies in onychophorans and arthropods. Their antennal nerve cords and olfactory lobes most likely evolved independently. In contrast to previous reports, we found no evidence for second-order visual neuropils, or a frontal ganglion in the velvet worm brain.

Conclusion

We imaged the velvet worm nervous system at an unprecedented level of detail and compiled a comprehensive glossary of known and previously uncharacterised neuroanatomical structures to provide an in-depth characterisation of the onychophoran brain architecture. We expect that our data will improve the reproducibility and comparability of future neuroanatomical studies.