bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co-production before, during, and after the first COVID-19 lockdown: The case of developmental services for youth with disabilities
Authors: Carminati Monica , Cavenago Dario , Mariani Laura
Published: November 2022

Co-production was vital to support public services provision during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic, and one of the main challenges for service providers is to make co-production sustainable. There are few empirical studies on the sustainability of co-production from a long-term perspective. This study aims to contribute to this topic by exploring the micro-level foundations of co-production persistence through a longitudinal qualitative study in three public service organizations providing developmental services for youth with disabilities. Co-production is analyzed along the service provision process before, during and after the first COVID-19 lockdown, with specific attention on exploring how the conditions for sustainable co-production – mutual commitment, complementarities and institutional arrangements – occur and reinforce one another after an external shock. The findings suggest that the persistence of co-production is a result of a process in which experimentation with new complementarities can enhance previous co-production experiences and generate a context of mutual commitment that facilitates future co-production initiatives and their institutionalization.

Points for practitioners

This article suggests how service providers can activate a potential virtuous cycle of co-production by increasing the opportunities that foster and sustain users and families' self-efficacy and reciprocal trust, and the contributions from wider social support networks of the most vulnerable people.
Carrying Europe’s ‘White Burden’, Sustaining Racial Capitalism: Young Post-Soviet Migrant Workers in Helsinki and Warsaw
Authors: Krivonos Daria
Published: November 2022

The opening up of sociology to postcolonial and critical race thinking has been predominantly animated by the relations between western metropoles and their (post)colonies. ‘Eastern Europe’ seems to be an uneasy fit in this discussion, being excluded from the idea of ‘Europe’; at the same time, it is not grouped together with non-European Others in terms of colonial histories. Drawing on fieldwork among young Russian and Ukrainian migrant workers in Helsinki (2014–2016) and Warsaw (2020), the article examines global connections that tie the North/West, South and East in these migrants’ imaginaries and material lives after migration. I demonstrate that Eastern European subjects are not outsiders to global racial capitalist orders but participate in sustaining a colonial project of Europe, whiteness and labour. The article argues for the importance of articulating postcoloniality of Eastern Europe vis-a-vis the West together with race to show the complicity of semi-peripheries with the global structures of racial capitalism.
The Unhomely of Homeschooling
Authors: Myers Martin
Published: November 2022

Despite increasing global popularity perceptions of homeschooling remain problematic. It resists trends towards mass compulsory education and the promotion of children’s rights; it challenges the state’s authority to educate citizens; and raises concerns about child protection issues and educational outcomes. Contemporaneously many homeschoolers identify their fears of risks and failings in mainstream schooling as the reason they homeschool. This article explores how discomfort and fear is ingrained within meanings associated with homeschooling often related to its domestic practice. It develops Freud’s account of unheimlich (the unhomely) as a useful addition to the sociological analysis of the multiple renditions of meaning attached to homeschooling. These include the conflation of homely and unhomely accounts; the significance of anecdotal accounts as a means of restating class biases and racisms; and the ambiguous relationship between family and state. It argues both policymakers and homeschoolers need to acknowledge these ambiguities.
Intra-articular delivery of antioxidative polymer-based nanospheres reduces intracellular reactive oxygen species in macrophages and alleviates cartilage damage in a rat model
Authors: Zhang Guihua , Qi Chaopeng , Rong Lingyan , Ju Chuanbao
Published: November 2022

Cartilage damage is frequent in various joint diseases, mainly manifested by the loss of type II collagen and the degradation of proteoglycans. Diclofenac sodium is a commonly used drug for the treatment of joint diseases, but simple administration is often affected by drug clearance and rapid metabolism. Intra-articular drug delivery is an effective method for local enrichment of high concentration of drugs. However, due to the short half-life of diclofenac sodium, prolonging the stability and duration of the drug can alleviate the disadvantages of direct intra-articular application. Nanospheres for delivering drugs to treat joint diseases could be a remedy for cartilage damage. In addition, excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by macrophages activated in damaged cartilage would aggravate cartilage damage. Therefore, this study intends to use poly lactic-co-glycolic acid nanospheres to load and deliver diclofenac sodium to inhibit chondrocyte death while regulating the generation of ROS, thereby promoting the treatment of cartilage damage.
Play with a purpose: Intensive parenting, educational desires and shifting notions of childhood and learning in twenty-first century Singapore
Authors: Göransson Kristina
Published: November 2022

This article examines how Singaporean parents negotiate complex expectations in relation to current reforms aimed at raising creative and problem-solving children. Based on ethnographic fieldwork, the article explores how ideas of brain-claiming, resilience, and natural exposure shape parenting practices around young children’s learning. The findings suggest that parents’ sentiments of uncertainty and guilt in relation to their children’s future are entwined with and fueled by a deep-rooted narrative of national survival, reproduced in the form of 21st century skills.
A Review on the Pharmacological Importance of PDE5 and Its Inhibition to Manage Biomedical Conditions
Authors: Saikia Queen , Hazarika Ajit , Mishra Ritu
Published: November 2022

Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) is a cyclic GMP (cGMP) specific protein. It hydrolyzes the phosphodiesterase linkage and catalyzes the conversion of cGMP to 5’ GMP, which controls different physiological activities of the body. PDE5 is associated with biomedical conditions like neurological disorders, pulmonary arterial hypertension, cardiomyopathy, cancer, erectile dysfunction, and lower urinary tract syndrome. Inhibition of PDE5 has now been proven pharmaceutically effective in a variety of therapeutic conditions. Avanafil, tadalafil, sildenafil, and vardenafil are the most commonly used PDE5 inhibitors (PDE5i) today which are often used for the management of erectile dysfunction, lower urinary tract syndromes, malignancy, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. However, these synthetic PDE5i come with a slew of negative effects. Some of the most common side effects include mild headaches, flushing, dyspepsia, altered color vision, back discomfort, priapism, melanoma, hypotension and dizziness, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), and hearing loss. In light of the potential negative effects of this class of medications, there is a lot of room for new, selective PDE5 inhibitors to be discovered. We have found 25 plant botanical compounds effectively inhibiting PDE5 which might be useful in treating a variety of disorders with minimal or no adverse effects.
Employee Welfare, Social Capital, and IPO Firm Survival
Authors: Amini Shima , Johan Sofia , Pour Eilnaz Kashefi , Mohamed Abdulkadir
Published: November 2022

We examine the impact of employee welfare and social capital on the prospect of firms remaining quoted on a stock exchange. We analyze a panel sample of US-listed firms from 2000 to 2016 and track the outcome to the end of 2021. We find that entrepreneurial firms remain listed longer when employee welfare is better, and firms are located in a better social capital region. We also find that employee welfare positively complements the impact of social capital on prolonging the likelihood of remaining quoted. Our results are robust to endogeneity, effects of financial crises and COVID-19, and various model specifications.
Voces de la Gente: Spanish-Speaking Families’ Perspectives on Early Childhood Special Education
Authors: Durán Lillian , Cycyk Lauren M. , Batz Ruby
Published: November 2022

The Individual with Disabilities Education Act specifies that families should be include in the special education process and they must provide informed consent. However, families from Spanish-speaking backgrounds, often report barriers to participation. In this study, we provided a forum for Spanish-speaking families to tell their stories using multiple methods to uncover the experiences of 39 Latine caregivers of young children with disabilities. Family experiences reported on a survey and during focus groups are summarized in three areas: evaluation, eligibility determination, and service provision. While most families agreed on surveys that they were satisfied with EI/ECSE practices in their child’s case, during focus groups families frequently described reduced access to information about EI/ECSE, lack of support for the home language, feeling excluded from their child’s educational planning, and, in some cases, delays in services. Families also shared the importance of self-advocacy in EI/ECSE and the value of support from community advocates, including EI/ECSE professionals. Implications for policy and practice are presented.
Adaptation of the PEERS for Young Adults Social Skills Curriculum for College Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Ridgely Natalie C. , Pallathra Ashley A. , Raffaele C. Teal , Rothwell Caitlin , Rich Brendan A.
Published: November 2022

Young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience a variety of unique challenges that may be compounded for individuals pursuing postsecondary education. Particular difficulties identified for college students with ASD include variability in social skills, social isolation, and reduced access to appropriate support and services. Research on effective interventions supporting college students with ASD is considerably lacking. This pilot study sought to address this area of need by modifying the Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS) for Young Adults, a social skills training program for young adults with autism, for use on a college campus. Following the intervention, participants showed improvements in areas of social functioning that are particularly important for college students with ASD, including overall social functioning, social awareness, social motivation, social cognition, and knowledge of social skills. This study is an important step toward the development of effective interventions that address social competence specifically for young adults with autism in postsecondary educational environments.
Young People’s Aspirations in an Uncertain World: Taking Control of the Future?
Authors: Ansell Nicola , Froerer Peggy , Huijsmans Roy
Published: November 2022

The future for young people worldwide is characterised by multiple uncertainties, particularly perhaps in countries of the Global South. There is a growing and pervasive expectation that these uncertainties need to be responded to, both by institutions and individuals, so that young people are prepared for an unpredictable and changing world. ‘Raising aspirations’ is expected to play an instrumental role in preparing young people to confront a constantly changing world. Of the four articles that constitute this special section, two explore institutional efforts to shape young people’s aspirations to build new kinds of (national and individual) future, while the other two focus on the messier, more fluid ways in which young people reorient themselves in relation to unpredictable events. Together, they highlight how interventions designed to produce flexible creative individuals largely ignore how young people already live their lives in responsive and creative ways.
Mechanical performance of high-strength steel tube confined self-stressing concrete short columns
Authors: Zhu Xiao-Long , Zheng Yu-Zhou , Chen Li , Liu Xin , Xiang Heng-Bo , Fang Qin
Published: November 2022

In this paper, eleven high-strength steel tube confined self-stressing concrete (HSTCSC) short columns were tested to study their strengthening mechanism and axial compression performance. The effects of different material strengths, cross-section types, and hollow ratios on the axial mechanical properties of the HSTCSC short columns were investigated using the finite element analysis method. Experimental results highlighted that the HSTCSC short columns presented the waist drum-type failure mode significantly, with a higher axial load-bearing capacity and deformation performance, and possess a large safety reserve. It was also found that the axial compression property of the HSTCSC short column could be improved significantly due to the joint action of the micro-expansion of the self-stressing concrete and the hoop constraint of the high-strength steel tube. Moreover, the circular cross-section HSTCSC short columns were found to result in better mechanical performance after yielding of the high-strength steel tubes, especially entering the strengthening section. Under the condition of equal steel content ratio and cross-section area, the single-layer circular HSTCSC short columns were found to have the largest load-bearing capacities after yielding the high-strength steel tubes, followed by the double-layer circular HSTCSC short columns, and then the double-layer square HSTCSC short columns. The hollow rate of the cross-section could also decrease the load-bearing capacity of the HSTCSC short column with both circular and square sections, although increasing the hollow rate could save material and reduce the weight of the structure. The finite element analysis results showed that the proposed finite element model could be employed to simulate the compressive behavior of HSTCSC short columns with high calculation accuracy.
Validity of the Finnish Care Register for Social Welfare in a nationwide cohort of people with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Hyttinen Virva , Selander Kirsikka , Tolppanen Anna-Maija , Väyrynen Riikka , Mielikäinen Lasse , Linnosmaa Ismo , Hartikainen Sirpa
Published: November 2022

Aims:

To assess the validity and completeness of the Care Register for Social Welfare among community-dwelling people with Alzheimer’s disease in Finland.

Methods:

The study was carried out in the Medication Use and Alzheimer’s disease (MEDALZ) study population, which includes 70,719 people who received a clinically verified diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease between 2005 and 2011 and the people matched with them for comparison ( n=282,862). The data were linked to the Care Register for Social Welfare, which contains data on care periods for nursing homes and sheltered housing with 24-h assistance during the time period 1994–2015. The validity of the Care Register for Social Welfare was analysed in relation to the Prescription Register among people with Alzheimer’s disease aged >65 years ( n=25,640) who fulfilled the definitions of long-term care in certain inpatient care units (nursing homes, institutional care for people with dementia and rehabilitation institutions), although, in Finland, drug purchases should not be recorded in the register during long-term care.

Results:

The required level of assistance at discharge was recorded for 99.7% of people, diagnoses for 5.1% of the care periods and the discharge date for 100% of the completed care periods. Depending on the definition of long-term care, 6–10% of all long-term care periods included drug purchases during the study period.

Conclusions:

The validity of the Care Register for Social Welfare is high, but some limitations should be considered when using the data. Combining health and social care registers provides a potentially more comprehensive database on the utilisation and costs of services.
Acoustic radiation performance investigation of a double-walled cylindrical shell equipped with annular plates and porous foam media
Authors: Zheng Zengquan , Li Bin , Yan Shilin , Qi Menghui , Wang Ning , Kuang Wenjian , Wen Jian , Ma Yane
Published: November 2022

Acoustic radiation through a system of double-walled shells, lined with porous foams, and stiffened by annular plates simultaneously is studied. Based on modeling, the porous foams as absorbent fluid property, acoustic characteristics of structure are presented for various sandwich construction by means of vibro-acoustic finite element method with automatic matching layer technology. It is noted that equipping porous foams and annular plates simultaneously enhances the acoustic insulation of structure in the entire frequency domain. The overall sound power level is modified by the density of shell. Moreover, the increase of structural stiffness is shown to effectively reduce the acoustic radiation via rising the thickness of inner shell and the number of annular plates. The foam cores decrease the peak value of structural sound power level through using polyurethane foam cores and increasing filling ratio.
Design and repair: from object conservation to material transformation
Authors: Scardifield Kate , Hall Megan
Published: November 2022

This visual essay utilizes a series of images from Make Do and Mend, a participatory workshop that brought together designers, a museum conservator and the general public to explore design for repair as part of Sydney Craft Week in 2019. The photographs capture objects and materials in various states of transformation, bringing to light the aesthetic politics at play that often underpin acts of repair. The essay is a visual re-framing of repair as a form of design practice, revealing objects in various states of transformation and our changing attitudes towards them over time. As a visual narrative, the essay demonstrates the value of material knowledge exchange in shaping new aesthetic registers for object conservation and approaches to repair.
Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair After a Migrated EVAR Bypassing a Severely Kinked Previous Endograft
Authors: Torrealba Jose I. , Kölbel Tilo , Rohlffs Fiona , Spanos Konstantinos , Panuccio Giuseppe
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

To describe a novel technique to repair a juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (JAAA) after failed endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) with severely kinked anatomy.

Technique:

We present a patient who underwent an EVAR with a Medtronic Talent device 15 years ago and a proximal cuff extension 3 years earlier for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Computed tomography (CT) done for a known gastritis showed a 12 cm JAAA, with a migrated endograft and a type Ia endoleak (EL). Endovascular repair was performed, accessing and navigating the aneurysmal sac outside the previous graft. The type I EL was reached and the suprarenal aorta catheterized. A 4-vessel inner-branched EVAR device was deployed in the distal thoracic aorta and their target vessels bridged through femoral access. A distal bifurcated component was deployed and both iliac limbs were extended to the native distal iliac arteries. Completion angiogram as well as early and 12-month CT showed a fully patent straight course branched EVAR with no ELs.

Conclusion:

Complex aortic reinterventions in the presence of previous EVAR can be performed by choosing a straighter course along and parallel to the previous endograft. Several technical aspects must be considered to successfully perform this type of reinterventions.

Clinical Impact

We present a technique of a complex endovascular aortic repair in a failed EVAR with kinked anatomy, navigating through the thrombosed aneurysmal sac, outside the previously placed endograft and thus obtaining a straighter path for a new branched endograft. The novelty lies in a different approach to repair a failed EVAR with a branched graft through an uncommon access on the side of the previous endograft, avoiding repeated displacement or occlusion of the new endograft. We exemplify the feasibility of such a complex procedure and highlight important steps to perform it, whether in the abdominal or even thoracic Aorta.
Astrocyte-microglia interaction through C3/C3aR pathway modulates neuropathic pain in rats model of chronic constriction injury
Authors: Mou Wanying , Ma Lulu , Zhu Afang , Cui Huan , Huang Yuguang
Published: November 2022

Neuropathic pain (NP) is the cardinal symptom of neural injury, and its underlying molecular mechanism needs further investigation. Complements, especially complement 3 (C3), are involved in the pathophysiology of many neurological disorders, while the specific role of C3 in NP is still obscure. In this study, we found that both C3 and its receptor C3aR were upregulated in the spinal dorsal horn in a rat chronic constriction injury (CCI) model. In addition, C3 was mainly detected in astrocytes, while C3aR was expressed in microglia and neuron. Intrathecal injection of C3 antibody and C3aR antagonist alleviated NP in CCI model together with reduced M1 polarization of microglia. Our finding suggested that blockade of the C3/C3aR pathway might be a novel strategy for NP.
Between universes: Fan positionalities in the transnational circulation of K-pop
Authors: Yoon Kyong
Published: November 2022

Transnational fans of South Korean pop music (K-pop) are known for their cosmopolitan sense of belonging and community beyond geocultural boundaries. Academics who are also fans (i.e. aca-fans) and who have conducted recent ethnographic studies have developed a favorable perspective on the potential of global K-pop fandom. While acknowledging the alternative force generated by the grassroots K-pop universe, this article suggests that transnational fans do not constitute a homogeneous group; rather, they inevitably have to negotiate their own positionalities, such as race and gender, when engaging with K-pop’s virtual fan universe. Drawing on qualitative interviews with K-pop fans in Canada, this study comparatively analyzes how young people of White and Asian backgrounds experience K-pop as an emerging cultural genre whose meaning is not yet clearly situated in their local contexts. The study suggests that transnational fans’ experiences reveal the gap between the socially divided real universe and the cosmopolitan virtual K-pop universe.
Analysis of spatial form and structure of commercial pedestrian blocks based on Isovist and big data
Authors: Sun Ye , Lu Wei , Gu Zongchao
Published: November 2022

Commercial pedestrian blocks play an indispensable role in urban life. With the development of urban commercial intensification, the construction of commercial pedestrian blocks has ushered in a period of rapid development. To explore the spatial form and structural features of commercial pedestrian blocks, we examined the Qingniwa-Tianjin Street commercial pedestrian block in Dalian, China. We developed a new quantitative research method, using Isovist-App software simulation, big data statistics and Arc GIS analysis methods to explore the spatial morphological structure characteristics of commercial districts. The results show that Tianjin Street’s pedestrian axis has low spatial permeability and monotonous browsing routes. This suggests that the outdoor pedestrian space design does not attract crowds to wander around and stroll. The overall centrality of the space was relatively high, and the spatial accessibility was good. The walking route provided a wide field of vision, stimulating people’s desire for exploration. The space is highly guided, and people can visit according to the designed route. There is a big difference in the spatial aggregation and dispersion of POI facilities. Transportation, sports, and leisure facilities are the most evenly distributed, while shopping and life service street facilities vary considerably. During holidays, the intensity and duration of crowd activities are the largest, followed by working days and weekends. The people in the block mainly gather in the western and southern commercial complexes, and the attractiveness of outdoor pedestrian streets is lower than that of commercial complexes. Node space B has pedestrian streets with varying spatial interfaces and inconsistent visual appeal. The results can be used to support the spatial form and structural renewal design of commercial pedestrian blocks. The methods presented in this study provide a quantitative approach for the spatial analysis of other functional areas in the city.
Choroidal thickness in patients with systemic arterial hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Papathanasiou Konstantinos A. , Kazantzis Dimitrios , Vrachatis Dimitrios A. , Giotaki Sotiria G. , Papaconstantinou Eva , Kanakis Menelaos , Avramides Dimitrios , Deftereos Spyridon , Chatziralli Irini , Georgalas Ilias
Published: November 2022

Background:

The global burden of hypertension is constantly increasing with adverse cardiovascular and ocular sequelae. The association between elevated blood pressure and choroidal thickness (CT), as assessed via optical coherence tomography (OCT), is poorly understood.

Objectives and Design:

Studies including hypertensive adults and normotensive controls undergoing OCT were evaluated for inclusion in this meta-analysis. The primary endpoint was CT difference between hypertensive and normotensive adults.

Data Sources and Methods:

We conducted a systematic review and after searching 1011 results from MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov, medRxiv and Cochrane Library, six studies were deemed eligible and were pooled according to a random-effect model.

Results:

A statistically significant reduction in choroidal thickness was found in hypertensive adults ( n = 454) as compared with normotensive controls ( n = 365) [mean difference: −0.77; 95% confidence intervals: (−1.20, −0.34); p = 0.0004]. The main limitations of this meta-analysis are the relatively small population included and the high statistical heterogeneity ( I2 = 87%) among the various studies. Of note, after excluding one study the heterogeneity was markedly reduced.

Conclusion:

Choroidal thickness is reduced among hypertensive subjects compared with normotensive controls. This finding mandates further examination in the context of long-term clinical outcomes.
Passivation and Interlayer Effect of Zr(i-PrO)4 on Green CuGaS2/ZnS/Zr(i-PrO)4@Al2O3 and Red CuInS2/ZnS/Zr(i-PrO)4@Al2O3 QD Hybrid Powders
Authors: Ko Minji , Yoon Soyeon , Eo Yun Jae , Lee Keyong Nam , Do Young Rag
Published: November 2022

Broadband emissive I–III–VI quantum dots (QDs) are synthesized as efficient and stable I–III–VI QDs to be used as eco-friendly luminescent materials in various applications. Here, we introduce the additional passivation of zirconium isopropoxide (Zr(i-PrO)4) to improve the optical properties and environmental stability of green-emitting CuGaS2/ZnS (G-CGS/ZnS) and red-emitting CuInS2/ZnS (R-CIS/ZnS) QDs. The photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of both resultant Zr(i-PrO)4-coated G-CGS/ZnS and R-CIS/ZnS QDs reaches similar values of ~ 95%. In addition, the photostability and thermal-stability of G-CGS/ZnS/Zr(i-PrO)4 and R-CIS/ZnS/Zr(i-PrO)4 QDs are improved by reducing the ligand loss via encapsulation of the ligand-coated QD surface with Zr(i-PrO)4. It is also proved that the Zr(i-PrO)4-passivated interlayer mitigates the further degradation of I-III-V QDs from ligand loss even under harsh conditions during additional hydrolysis reaction of aluminum tri-sec-butoxide (Al(sec-BuO)3), forming easy-to-handle G-CGS/ZnS and R-CIS/ZnS QD-embedded Al2O3 powders. Therefore, the introduction of a Zr(i-PrO)4 complex layer potentially provides a strong interlayer to mitigate degradation of I–III–VI QD-embedded Al2O3 hybrid powders as well as passivation layer for protecting I–III–VI QD.
Uveitic glaucoma in children: a systematic review on surgical outcomes
Authors: van Meerwijk Charlotte L. L. I. , Jansonius Nomdo M. , Los Leonoor I.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

To compare the outcomes and complications of different surgical interventions for secondary glaucoma in pediatric uveitis.

Methods

Systematic review following the PRISMA standards. Main inclusion criteria were surgery for secondary glaucoma in pediatric uveitis at a mean age of 16 years or below, a mean follow-up period of at least 1 year after surgery, and at least 10 eyes per surgical intervention per study. We used the GRADE approach to assess study quality. Primary outcomes were intraocular pressure (IOP) and number of IOP lowering medications before and after surgery. Secondary outcomes were success rate and complications.

Results

Fourteen studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria, in which one (n = 11) or more (n = 3) surgical interventions were described, comprising in total six different procedures. According to the GRADE criteria, the quality of the studies was low to very low, in particular because of the small size and the applied study designs. All surgical interventions provided a significant decrease in IOP and number of IOP lowering medications. The success rates during follow-up varied widely, with the lowest rates of success after cyclophotocoagulation. The most frequently reported complications were ocular hypertension, hypotony, and hyphema, with an indication for a reoperation in more than one-third of the cases. Permanent vision loss was infrequently seen and was attributed to prolonged hypotony.

Conclusions

The described surgical interventions are able to prevent blindness by lowering a medically uncontrolled IOP to an acceptable level. Therefore, there is a crucial role for surgical intervention in these children. Based on the present studies, no preferences can be made. Given the reported complications, more research with larger sample sizes and direct comparisons is needed to determine the most successful glaucoma treatment in children with uveitis.
Comparative study of dexmedetomidine versus fentanyl as adjuvants to bupivacaine in ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block in patients undergoing radical cystectomy: a prospective randomised study
Authors: Kassim Dina Yehia , Mahmoud Hatem ElMoutaz , Fakhry Dina Mahmoud , Mansour Mariana AbdElSayed
Published: November 2022

Background

Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is beneficial for pain management after conducting abdominal surgery.

Objective

To compare the outcomes of dexmedetomidine and fentanyl, as adjuvants to bupivacaine, for ultrasound-guided TAP block analgesia among patients undergoing radical cystectomy for postoperative pain management.

Methods

This prospective, randomised, comparative study included a total of 60 patients, who underwent radical cystectomy. Participants were randomly divided into three categories with 20 subjects each; group B had patients who received a single shot US-guided TAP block on each side with 20 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine + 2 ml normal saline; group BF had patients who received a single shot US-guided TAP block on each side with 20 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine + 1 µg/kg fentanyl dissolved in 2 ml normal saline and group BD had patients who received a single shot US-guided TAP block on each side with 20 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine + 1 µg/kg dexmedetomidine dissolved in 2 ml normal saline.The researchers recorded the time taken for first rescue analgesia, total analgesic dose in the first 24 h after surgery, patient satisfaction, sedation score, and postoperative complications.

Results

The time taken for first rescue analgesia was significantly lengthier in group (BD) (8.90 ± 2.47) than (BF) (6.50 ± 1.43) and (B) (4.40 ± 1.05) groups. The total nalbuphine consumption, during the first 24 h, was significantly lower in (BD) (0.15 ± 0.00) group compared to (BF) (0.20 ± 0.07) and (B) (0.24 ± 0.08) groups.

Conclusion

In comparison with fentanyl, as an adjuvant to bupivacaine, dexmedetomidine was found to be associated with prolonged postoperative analgesia, less postoperative pain scores and low opioid consumption.

Trial registration

This study was registered at Clinical Trials.gov on 23 March 2020 (registration number: NCT04318158).
Development of a novel immune-related lncRNA prognostic signature for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Rui , Jin Chen , Zhao Weiheng , Liang Rui , Xiong Huihua
Published: November 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common neoplasm and the major cause of cancer-associated death worldwide. The high mortality rate of HCC is mainly attributed to its widespread prevalence and the lack of effective treatment. Immunotherapy as a promising, innovative approach has revolutionised the treatment of solid tumours. However, owing to the heterogeneity and complex tumour microenvironment of HCC, an efficient biomarker for immunotherapy has yet to be identified. We investigated the role of immune-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as prognostic biomarkers in patients with HCC from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Spearman correlation, univariate and multivariate Cox, and lasso regression analyses were utilised to screen lncRNAs associated with prognosis. Four lncRNAs were filtered out to develop an immune-associated lncRNA prognostic signature in TCGA training as well as validation cohorts. Patients with HCC were then categorised into low- and high-risk groups according to the median value of the risk scores to evaluate the ability of the prognostic model between training and validation cohorts. A nomogram (based on risk score and stage) was constructed to appraise the general overall survival (OS) of patients with HCC. Differences in immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment response, gene mutation, and drug sensitivity were observed between the two groups. Thus, the lncRNA prognostic signature can serve as a sensitive prognostic biomarker with potential in individualised immunotherapy for HCC patients.
Prognostic nomogram for acute pancreatitis after percutaneous biliary stent insertion in patients with malignant obstruction
Authors: Xu Chen , Gu Yiming , Zhou Weizhong , Xu Guoxiong , Liu Sheng , Shi Haibin
Published: November 2022

Objective

This study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram to predict the risk of pancreatitis after percutaneous transhepatic biliary stent insertion (PTBS) in patients with malignant biliary obstruction (MBO).

Materials and methods

We enrolled 314 patients who underwent PTBS for MBO from March 2016 to July 2021 in this retrospective study. We used univariate analysis to identify potential risk factors, while a multivariate logistic regression model was employed to establish a nomogram for predicting the risk of pancreatitis. The discrimination and calibration of the nomogram were evaluated by estimating the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) and by bootstrap resampling and visual inspection of the calibration curve. The clinical utility of the nomogram was assessed using decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

After the procedure, 41 (13.1%) patients developed pancreatitis. Based on multivariate logistic regression analysis, young age (OR = 2.57, 95% CI 1.16 to 5.69), stent insertion across the papilla (OR = 6.47, 95% CI 2.66 to 15.70), and visualization of the pancreatic duct (OR = 15.40, 95% CI 6.07 to 39.03) were associated with an elevated risk of pancreatitis. Importantly, the performance of the nomogram was satisfactory, with an identical AUC (0.807, 95% CI 0.730 to 0.883) and high-level agreement between predicted and observed probabilities as suggested in calibration curves. The DCA curve subsequently confirmed the clinical utility.

Conclusion

A predictive nomogram for pancreatitis after PTBS in patients with MBO was successfully established in the present study.
Magnetic resonance imaging of parotid gland tumors: a pictorial essay
Authors: Kim Soung Yung , Borner Urs , Lee Jung-Hyun , Wagner Franca , Tshering Vogel Dechen W.
Published: November 2022

Imaging of parotid gland tumors is challenging due to the wide variety of differential diagnoses. Malignant parotid tumors can have very similar features to benign ones, such as slow growth and displacement instead of infiltration of neighboring structures. Malignant and benign tumors may therefore not be clinically distinguishable. Correct characterization of parotid tumors (i.e., benign or malignant) determines preoperative treatment planning and is important in optimizing the individualized surgical plan. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the imaging modality of choice for evaluation of suspected parotid gland lesions and differentiation between benign and malignant lesions. Certain conventional MRI features can suggest whether a mass is more likely to be a benign or low-grade malignancy or a high-grade malignancy and adding diffusion-weighted imaging or advanced MRI techniques like perfusion can aid in this distinction. Morphological features seen on MRI, such as low signal on T2-w, infiltrative changes or ill-defined margins, change over time and diffusion restriction can point to the malignant nature of the lesion. MRI is useful for detection and localization of the lesion(s), and associated findings like perineural spread of tumor, lymph node involvement and infiltrative changes of the surrounding tissues. In this pictorial essay, we present selected images of a variety of benign and malignant parotid tumors and emphasize the MRI features that may be useful in their characterization.
LncRNA MEG3 promotes cisplatin sensitivity of cervical cancer cells by regulating the miR-21/PTEN axis
Authors: Du Ying , Geng Gang , Zhao Chunquan , Gao Tian , Wei Bin
Published: November 2022

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is a common gynecological malignancy worldwide. Some patients perform serious resistance after chemotherapy, and long-stranded non-coding RNA MEG3 is reported to be involved in the regulation of chemoresistance in many solid tumors. However, its involvement in cervical adenocarcinoma has not been reported.

Methods

Hela cell lines, cisplatin-resistant cell lines (Hela-CR) and nude mice were used in this study. After MEG3 was overexpressed or knocked down in cells by the lentivirus vector, cell growth was detected by the CCK-8 assay, and cell migration was evaluated using Transwell assay. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to examine the expression of MEG3, miR-21 and PTEN mRNA. Apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The targeting relationship between mRNAs was predicted and verified using dual-luciferase reporter gene experiments. Western blot was executed to examine Bax, cleaved-caspase 3, Bcl-2, PTEN and GAPDH expression. Cells were injected into the mice to form xenograft tumors to compare tumorigenesis capacity.

Results

We demonstrated that MEG3 was down-regulated in cervical cancer by analyzing the TCGA database. Moreover, knockdown of MEG3 promoted CC cell proliferation, migration and inhibited the apoptosis. These changes of CC cells were more pronounced under cisplatin treatment. Further studies showed that the MEG3/miR-21/PTEN axis affected cisplatin sensitivity in cervical cancer cells, and these results of recue assay were used to confirm this conclusion.

Conclusions

MEG3 performing as ceRNA promotes cisplatin sensitivity in CC cells through the miR-21/PTEN axis.
Prevalence and patterns of mutations in RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK/MAPK signaling pathway in colorectal cancer in North Africa
Authors: Jafari Meryem , Laraqui Abdelilah , Baba Walid , Benmokhtar Soukaina , Zaitouni Sara El , Ali Abdelmounaim Ait , Bounaim Ahmed , Moujahid Mountassir , Tanz Rachid , Mahfoud Tarik , Sbitti Yassir , Annaz Hicham El , Abi Rachid , Tagajdid Mohamed Rida , Kochri Safae El , Lahlou Idriss Amine , Hsaini Houda El , Belayachi Lamiae , Benjouad Abdelaziz , Ichou Mohammed , En-Nya Amina , Ennibi Khalid
Published: November 2022

Background

Our review discuss (i) the findings from analyzed data that have examined KRAS, NRAS and BRAF mutations in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) in North Africa and to compare its prevalence with that shown in other populations and (ii) the possible role of dietary and lifestyle factors with CRC risk. 

Methods

Using electronic databases, a systematic literature search was performed for the KRAS, NRAS, and BRAF mutations in CRC patients from Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Lybia. 

Results

Seventeen studies were identified through electronic searches with six studies conducted in Morocco, eight in Tunisia, two in Algeria, and one in Libya. A total of 1843 CRC patients were included 576 (31.3%) in Morocco, 641 (34.8%) in Tunisia, 592 (32.1%) in Algeria, and 34 (1.8%) in Libya. Overall, the average age of patients was 52.7 years old. Patients were predominantly male (56.6%). The mutation rates of KRAS, NRAS and BRAF were 46.4%, 3.2% and 3.5% of all patients, respectively. A broad range of reported KRAS mutation frequencies have been reported in North Africa countries. The KRAS mutation frequency was 23.9% to 51% in Morocco, 23.1% to 68.2% in Tunisia, 31.4% to 50% in Algeria, and 38.2% in Libya. The G12D was the most frequently identified KRAS exon 2 mutations (31.6%), followed by G12V (25.4%), G13D (15.5%), G12C (10.2%), G12A (6.9%), and G12S (6.4%). G12R, G13V, G13C and G13R are less than 5%. There are important differences among North Africa countries. In Morocco and Tunisia, there is a higher prevalence of G12D mutation in KRAS exon 2 (≈50%). The most frequently mutation type in KRAS exon 3 was Q61L (40%). A59T and Q61E mutations were also found. In KRAS exon 4, the most common mutation was A146T (50%), followed by K117N (33.3%), A146P (8.3%) and A146V (8.3%).

Conclusion

KRAS mutated CRC patients in North Africa have been identified with incidence closer to the European figures. Beside established anti-CRC treatment, better understanding of the causality of CRC can be established by combining epidemiology and genetic/epigenetic on CRC etiology. This approach may be able to significantly reduce the burden of CRC in North Africa.
Retinal telangiectasia-like lesions in a 15-year-old female with Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia – a case report
Authors: Ala Ardiana , Sørensen Torben Lykke , Laugesen Caroline Schmidt
Published: November 2022

Background

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), also known as Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome is a bleeding disorder that can affect all parts of the body including the eyes. Different ocular abnormalities have been described in relation to HHT, but the pathogenesis of retinal involvement is still unknown. A few cases have described chorioretinal abnormalities primarily occurring in elderly patients. In this study, we present a unique case of a young female with known HHT and a series of retinal fundus images including optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) with macular telangiectasia-like lesions.

Case presentation

A young female genetically diagnosed with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), is regularly attending retinal screening since she is diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. At one visit, abnormal retinal telangiectasia-like lesions in the macula, are observed. These abnormalities are monitored over an extended period of time with fundus imaging, and further investigated with OCT and OCTA. The patient has no visual complaints at any time and best-corrected visual acuity is 20/20 Snellen equivalent in both eyes.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case to describe the occurrence of telangiectasia-like lesions in macula with secondary choriocapillaris atrophy in a patient diagnosed with HHT in such a young age.
The association between self-reported mobile phone usage with blood pressure and heart rate: evidence from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Amiri Fatemeh , Moradinazar Mehdi , Moludi Jalal , Pasdar Yahya , Najafi Farid , Shakiba Ebrahim , Hamzeh Behrooz , Saber Amir
Published: November 2022

Background

With the advancement of technology, the rate of access and use of mobile phones in different communities has increased significantly. Mobile phones emit electromagnetic waves and therefore excessive use of them may have harmful effects on physical and mental health and especially on the cardiovascular system. This study aimed to investigate the association between self-reported mobile phone use duration and blood pressure and heart rate (HR) using data from Ravansar non-communicable diseases (RaNCD) cohort study.

Methods

The present cross-sectional study was performed using the data of 8905 out of 10,065 participants in the RaNCD study in Iran. According to the mean self-reported duration of mobile phone usage (min/day) over the previous 12 months, all users were divided into four groups. The first and fourth groups had the least and most time using mobile phones respectively. The relationship between blood pressure and the duration of mobile phone use was determined using univariate and multiple linear regression.

Results

Of 8905 participants aged 35–65 years, 1515 (17.0%) of them didn't use mobile phones. The minimum, maximum, and mean duration of self-reported mobile phone use between users were 3.4, 50.4, and 19.5 min/day, respectively. A decrease in women's systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) and HR was observed by increasing the duration of mobile phone use. With adjustment for effective confounding factors, there was a significant negative association between SBP [-2.52 (-4.11, -0.94)], DBP [-1.86 (-2.83, -0.89)], and duration of mobile use.

Conclusion

In this study, a significant decreasing trend was found between SBP, DBP, and HR and higher mobile phone usage in women. Based on regression analysis, SBP, DBP, and duration of mobile phone use were associated negatively in those who used their phones for at least 8 h.
Nomogram for prediction of severe community-acquired pneumonia development in diabetic patients: a multicenter study
Authors: Tan Ruoming , Liu Bing , Zhao Chunliu , Yan Junhai , Pan Tingting , Zhou Min , Qu Hongping
Published: November 2022

Background

Diabetic patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) have an increased risk of progressing to severe CAP. It is essential to develop predictive tools at the onset of the disease for early identification and intervention. This study aimed to develop and validate a clinical feature-based nomogram to identify diabetic patients with CAP at risk of developing severe CAP.

Method

A retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 2019 to December 2020. 1026 patients with CAP admitted in 48 hospitals in Shanghai were enrolled. All included patients were randomly divided into the training and validation samples with a ratio of 7:3. The nomogram for the prediction of severe CAP development was established based on the results of the multivariate logistic regression analysis and other predictors with clinical relevance. The nomogram was then assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

Multivariate analysis showed that chronic kidney dysfunction, malignant tumor, abnormal neutrophil count, abnormal lymphocyte count, decreased serum albumin level, and increased HbA1c level at admission was independently associated with progression to severe CAP in diabetic patients. A nomogram was established based on these above risk factors and other predictors with clinical relevance. The area under the curve (AUC) of the nomogram was 0.87 (95% CI 0.83–0.90) in the training set and 0.84 (95% CI 0.78–0.90). The calibration curve showed excellent agreement between the predicted possibility by the nomogram and the actual observation. The decision curve analysis indicated that the nomogram was applicable with a wide range of threshold probabilities due to the net benefit.

Conclusion

Our nomogram can be applied to estimate early the probabilities of severe CAP development in diabetic patients with CAP, which has good prediction accuracy and discrimination abilities. Since included biomarkers are common, our findings may be performed well in clinical practice and improve the early management of diabetic patients with CAP.