bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ageing in Urban Neighbourhoods: Exploring Place Insideness Amongst Older Adults in India, Brazil and the United Kingdom
Authors: Woolrych Ryan , Duvurru Jamuna , Portella Adriana , Sixsmith Judith , Menezes Deborah , Fisher Jenny , Lawthom Rebecca , Reddy Srikanth , Datta Anupama , Chakravarty Indrani , Khan Abdul Majeed , Murray Michael , Makita Meiko , Zubair Maria , Pereira Gisele
Published: August 2020

The ageing in place agenda emphasises the importance of supporting older adults to age in their communities surrounded by the personal resources to age well. In exploring the relationship between older people and their environment, the concept of place insideness is seen as central to constructing feelings of identity, belonging and attachment in old age. Yet there has been little research exploring how older adults experience place insideness across different urban, social and cultural contexts which is an impediment to identifying effective interventions for age-friendly cities and communities. This article explores how place insideness is experienced amongst older adults across India, Brazil and the United Kingdom. The article presents qualitative findings from 294 semi-structured interviews collected across 9 cities and 27 neighbourhoods. The findings reveal that older adults cultivate their sense of place insideness in old age through dimensions of physical insideness (i.e., environmental competence in navigating and engaging in the community), social insideness (i.e., knowing others) and autobiographical insideness (i.e., shared place histories). In drawing on older people’s understanding of their communities, this article explores the opportunities and challenges in developing a sense of place insideness to support ageing well. We identify implications for policy and practice in terms of how we can better design urban environments as age-friendly communities which support a greater sense of place for older people.
Shared social identity transforms social relations in imaginary crowds
Authors: Neville Fergus G. , Novelli David , Drury John , Reicher Stephen D.
Published: August 2020

In this paper we present three studies that address the difference between physical and psychological groups, the conditions that create a transformation from the one into the other, and the psychological processes underlying this transformation. In Study 1 we demonstrate correlations between shared social identity, desired physical proximity to others, and positive emotions in the company of others. Study 2, employing a between-subjects design, finds that an event that creates shared fate, such as the breakdown of a train, leads to greater comfort in social interactions (e.g., ease of conversation) and comfort in sensual interactions (e.g., tolerance of physical touch) with other passengers, and that this occurs through an increase in shared social identity but not through social identification. Study 3 obtains similar findings using a within-subjects design. In combination, these studies provide consistent evidence for the role of shared social identity in the emergence of psychological groups from physical groups.
Transmission and exposure of kitchen particles: A case study in an apartment
Authors: Sun Jingnan , Liu Wei , Long Zhengwei , Zhang Hao , Pan Wuxuan
Published: August 2020

Particles emitted from the kitchen have been proven as one of the major indoor particulate pollutants which could pose serious risk on human health. Thus, it is critical to study the migration of kitchen particles and the impact of kitchen particles on non-kitchen zones. Since Chinese domestic kitchens are equipped with exhaust hoods, the capture efficiency of an exhaust hood in real residence was first measured. The capture efficiency was about 48% with the air flow rate of 0.125 m3/s. Second, the relative occupant exposure was calculated to quantify migration characteristics of kitchen particles under different ventilation models. Results show that the meteorological environment had little effect on migration by infiltration but significant by natural ventilation. In the dwelling layout of this study, relative occupant exposures showed an upward trend in windward and a downward trend in leeward. When the wind direction was 225°, wind speed had the greatest impact on particle migration. Finally, the effect of the opening and closing situation of kitchen door on air quality was analysed. Results show that closing the kitchen door increased the exposure in the kitchen by 30–58%, while the exposure in the study dropped to 43% of the door open status.
E-VOLUTION: A Text Messaging–Powered Intervention—Connection, Support, and HIV Eradication
Authors: Gerke Donald R. , Glotfelty Jeff , Schlueter Julia , Freshman Maria , Plax Katie
Published: August 2020

This longitudinal, nonexperimental, quantitative study examined the acceptability, feasibility, and efficacy of a texting intervention that was added to medical case management for youth and young adults at high risk for poor HIV outcomes. The intervention, E-VOLUTION, sent automated text messages to youth participants living with HIV that reminded them to take prescribed medication and attend medical visits. Automated texts also asked clients about mood, housing, and ability to pay bills. Client responses to automated texts that indicated challenges triggered alerts for their medical case manager, who then followed up to address the issue. Participants (N = 100) were an average age between 22 and 23 years and most were Black (95%) and men who have sex with men (82%). Over a period of 26 months 89,681 automated texts were sent, resulting in 450 alerts. Additionally, clients and medical case managers exchanged more than 17,000 texts. Results of Spearman correlations indicated significant associations between greater frequency of alerts triggered and greater likelihood of kept medical appointments (p < .05). Findings also showed significant associations between greater frequency of texting with a medical case manager and greater likelihood of viral load suppression and kept medical visits at 12-month follow-up (p < .01). More frequent substance use was associated with more alerts triggered (p < .01). Use of text messaging was acceptable to the participants and is a culturally responsive way to engage youth participants living with HIV in care. Future research may examine the use of structured behavioral health assessments in the automated texting framework, as well as compare outcomes between automated and two-way texting groups.
Preliminary and Comparative Experiment Study Between 18F-Flurpiridaz and 13N-NH3·H2O Myocardial Perfusion Imaging With PET/CT in Miniature Pigs
Authors: Wang Jiao , Mpharm Shuai Li , Liu Tian-wen , Zhang Jie-min , Chen Yue , Li Jian-ming , Xu Wen-gui
Published: August 2020

Objectves:

To comparatively explore the differences between 18F-Flurpiridaz and 13N-NH3·H2O PET/CT myocardial perfusion imaging in miniature pigs.

Methods:

Ten Bama minipigs were divided into normal group and myocardial infarction group. The changes of the ratio of left ventricular myocardium to main organs with time were calculated and the best imaging time was confirmed for 18F-Flurpiridaz imaging in normal group. The image quality score, summed rest score(SRS), Extend, total perfusion deficit(TPD) and left ventricle ejection fraction(LVEF) were respectively compared for 18F-Flurpiridaz and 13N-NH3·H2O in infarction group.

Results:

18F-Flurpiridaz was rapid distributed in myocardium, and the background counts of cardiac cavity were very low, and no obvious interference extracardiac radioactivity was observed. The radioactive ratio of the left ventricular myocardium to cardiac blood pool and adjacent liver were high. Compared with 13N-NH3·H2O, there were no significant differences in functional parameters, including SRS, Extend, TPD and LVEF.

Conclusion:

The results preliminaryly show that 18F-FIurpiridaz is a promising positron MPI agent with good image quality, ability of accurately evaluating cardiac function, and also convenience for application.
Considerations for Measurement of Sodium Intake
Authors: Almeida Vanessa , Seto Todd , Banna Jinan
Published: August 2020

Current salt consumption is the major risk factor for hypertension and consequently cardiovascular disease (CVD). Accurate measurement of Na intake is an important component of developing dietary interventions to treat hypertension and lower CVD risk. Given that existing methods have a large subject burden, quick and practical ways to assess Na intake in individuals, particularly in hypertensive subjects, are needed. Such tools may be used for motivation to quantify salt intake and to set targets for lifestyle changes for prevention of CVD within a clinic setting. Patients at high risk of development of CVD may be identified and targeted for motivational interviewing. They may also be used as part of cardiac rehabilitation programs and will allow individuals to measure their own intake and to see the results of their individual action.
Support for Censorship of Online and Offline Media: The Partisan Divide in Turkey
Authors: Çarkoğlu Ali , Andı Simge
Published: August 2020

The increasing popularity of online news and social media sites has made it more difficult than ever to control the flow of information. However, governments across the world are successfully continuing to restrict access to content that adversely affects their interests. This study examines the determinants of public support for censorship, as public support is likely to influence governments’ ability to regulate information. Using the Balance Theory and nationally representative survey data from Turkey, we analyze the support for censorship of both online and offline media. Our results suggest that pro-censorship attitudes are positively associated with peoples’ sympathy for the censor.
Opioid Use in Athletes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ekhtiari Seper , Yusuf Ibrahim , AlMakadma Yosra , MacDonald Austin , Leroux Timothy , Khan Moin
Published: August 2020

Context:

The opioid epidemic has been well-documented in the general population, but the literature pertaining to opioid use and misuse in the athletic population remains limited.

Objectives:

The objectives of this study were to seek answers to the following questions: (1) what are the rates of opioid use and misuse among athletes, (2) do these rates differ compared with the nonathletic population, and (3) are there specific subgroups of the athletic population (eg, based on sport, level of play) who may be at higher risk?

Data Sources:

The Embase, MEDLINE, and PubMed were used for the literature search.

Study Selection:

Records were screened in duplicate for studies reporting rates of opioid use among athletes. All study designs were included.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Data Extraction:

Data regarding rates of opioid use, medication types, prescription patterns, and predictors of future opioid use were collected. Study quality was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria for clinical studies and 5 key domains previously identified for survey studies.

Results:

A total of 11 studies were eligible for inclusion (N = 226,256 athletes). Studies included survey studies and retrospective observational designs. Opioid use among professional athletes at any given time, as reported in 2 different studies, ranged from 4.4% to 4.7%, while opioid use over a National Football League career was 52%. High school athletes had lifetime opioid use rates of 28% to 46%. Risk factors associated with opioid use included Caucasian race, contact sports (hockey, football, wrestling), postretirement unemployment, and undiagnosed concussion. Use of opioids while playing predicted use of opioids in retirement.

Conclusion:

Overall, opioid use is prevalent among athletes, and use during a playing career predicts postretirement use. This issue exists even at the high school level, with similar rates to professional athletes. Further higher quality observational studies are needed to better define patterns of opioid use in athletes.
Investigating the Association of Metabolic Biomarkers With Knee Cartilage Composition and Structural Abnormalities Using MRI: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ashmeik Walid , Baal Joe D. , Foreman Sarah C. , Joseph Gabby B. , Bahroos Emma , Han Misung , Krug Roland , Link Thomas M.
Published: August 2020

Objective

The goal of this study was to explore the metabolic syndrome–associated phenotype of osteoarthritis by investigating the cross-sectional associations of glycemic markers and serum lipids with knee cartilage composition and structural abnormalities in middle-aged adults.

Design

Twenty participants between 40 to 70 years of age with Kellgren-Lawrence score 0-1 in at least one knee were recruited at a single center. Knee cartilage composition was assessed using 3.0 T cartilage T2 and T1ρ mapping. Evaluation of structural knee abnormalities was performed using the modified Whole-Organ Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score (WORMS). Linear regression was used to assess the associations of standardized fasting glucose (FG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), insulin, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), non-HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides with cartilage T2 and T1ρ as well as WORMS subscores, adjusting for body mass index.

Results

Higher FG and higher HbA1c were associated with higher WORMS meniscus sum (beta coefficient 1.31 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.57, 2.05], P = 0.002 per standard deviation [SD] increase in FG; beta coefficient 0.90 [95% CI: 0.07, 1.73], P = 0.035 per SD increase in HbA1c). Also, higher total cholesterol and higher non-HDL cholesterol were associated with higher WORMS cartilage sum (beta coefficient 0.94 [95% CI: 0.01, 1.86], P = 0.048 per SD increase in total cholesterol; beta coefficient 1.05 [95% CI: 0.14, 1.96], P = 0.03 per SD increase in non-HDL cholesterol).

Conclusions

Higher FG and HbA1c were associated with increased meniscal degeneration while higher total and non-HDL cholesterol were associated with increased cartilage degeneration.
Addressing Public Mental Health Challenges: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Problem-Based Learning
Authors: Biello Shannon , Yoss Sarah , Walker Elizabeth Reisinger , Druss Benjamin , Lang Delia L.
Published: August 2020

Problem-based learning (PBL) is a pedagogical framework that centers on a problem of interest and structures classroom tasks around teams formulating practical, evidence-based solutions. This approach is particularly well-suited for public health curricula, as it prepares students for a dynamic, interdisciplinary, professional environment. This study explores the piloting of a PBL approach with three student cohorts in a graduate-level public mental health course. Biweekly, interdisciplinary student teams were presented with a public mental health case provided by an expert in the field and asked to develop and present evidence-based solutions through a process grounded in knowledge acquisition, critical thinking, and faculty guidance. A mixed-methods evaluation was completed to examine student perceptions of PBL components and the benefits of PBL and to gather recommendations to enhance this approach. Among 37 students who completed self-administered surveys, more than 70% found case analysis, reviewing additional literature to support case solutions, and discussions with an expert to be the components “Most Helpful” to their learning. Four focus groups with 21 students were conducted to further examine perceived course benefits and suggested changes. Participants appreciated real-world simulations of public health issues and interdisciplinary teams and offered recommendations for future improvements, such as adding a culminating project. Findings support the benefits of a PBL approach in equipping graduate students with the knowledge and skills to successfully pursue professional public health work. Recommendations inform future efforts to implement this approach in other public health curricula as well as for other courses and settings.
The corneal effects of intravitreal dexamethasone implantation
Authors: Bayat Alper Halil , Karataş Gamze , Kurt Muhammet Mustafa , Elçioğlu Mustafa Nuri
Published: August 2020

Objectives:

To evaluate the corneal effects of the intravitreal dexamethasone implantation using corneal topography and specular microscopy.

Material and methods:

27 eyes of the 27 patients who received a single intravitreal dexamethasone implantation dose for diabetic macular edema were enrolled in this study. Sirius topography and EM-3000 specular microscopic examinations were performed at the initial examination (baseline), and then on the first day, during the first week, and 1 month after IDI. Changes in corneal parameters were investigated.

Results:

The mean age was 58.66 ± 6.59 years. 15 patients were men, and 12 were women. The mean disease duration was 12.2 ± 2.4 months, and mean glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was 7.2 ± 1.1. After dexamethasone injection, the mean central corneal thickness, endothelial cell density, and coefficient variation of cell area presented a statistically significant decrease ( p < 0.05). Anterior segment parameters, such as anterior chamber depth, iridocorneal angle, sim K1 and K2 keratometry, pupillary diameter, horizontal visible iris diameter, and corneal astigmatism did not change ( p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Intravitreal dexamethasone implantation affects corneal endothelial cell structure but does not appear to affect corneal topography parameters.
The Role of Growth Directors in Controlling the Morphology of Hematite Nanorods
Authors: Allender Christopher J. , Bowen Jenna L. , Celorrio Veronica , Davies-Jones Josh A. , Davies Philip R. , Guan Shaoliang , O’Reilly Padraic , Sankar Meenakshisundaram
Published: August 2020

The control of the growth of hematite nanoparticles from iron chloride solutions under hydrothermal conditions in the presence of two different structure promoters has been studied using a range of both structural and spectroscopic techniques including the first report of photo induced force microscopy (PiFM) to map the topographic distribution of the structure-directing agents on the developing nanoparticles. We show that the shape of the nanoparticles can be controlled using the concentration of phosphate ions up to a limit determined to be ~6 × 10−3 mol. Akaganéite (β-FeOOH) is a major component of the nanoparticles formed in the absence of structure directors but only present in the very early stages (< 8 h) of particle growth when phosphate is present. The PiFM data suggest a correlation between the areas in which phosphate ions are adsorbed and areas where akaganéite persists on the surface. In contrast, goethite (α-FeOOH) is a directly observed precursor of the hematite nanorods when 1,2-diamino propane is present. The PiFM data shows goethite in the center of the developing particles consistent with a mechanism in which the iron hydroxide re-dissolves and precipitates at the nanorod ends as hematite.
Assessment of left ventricular energy loss using vector flow mapping in patients with stages 1–3 chronic kidney disease
Authors: Chen Xiaoxue , Wang Yueheng , Wang Wei , Yuan Lijun , Qi Zhengqin , Song Degang
Published: August 2020

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) experience abnormality of intracardiac blood flow status during early-stages of disease. Left ventricular energy loss (EL) derived from vector flow mapping (VFM) represents fluid energy lost as heat in left ventricle and had been used to detect intracardiac blood flow efficiency. We aimed to evaluate the left ventricular EL in stage 1–3 CKD patients, and explored whether hypertension, a main cardiovascular risk, deteriorate the abnormality of intracardiac blood flow status.

Methods

Transthoracic echocardiography was performed in 41 controls and 48 patients with stages 1–3 CKD. CKD patients consisted a subgroup with no hypertension, a subgroup with well-controlled hypertension and a subgroup with poorly controlled hypertension. The EL were calculated in the left ventricle using VFM analysis from the apical 3-chamber view. Furthermore, the correlation and stepwise multiple regression analysis were used to explore the potential independent predictors of left ventricular EL.

Results

Compared with controls, stage 1–3 CKD patients showed increased left ventricular EL during total diastole, late diastole, total systole, isovolumic contraction and ejection. CKD patients with poorly controlled hypertension had higher left ventricular EL compared to the other CKD subgroups. Additionally, the ratio of mitral early filling wave peak velocity and early mitral annular peak velocity on septal side, mitral early filling wave peak velocity, and left ventricular mass index were independent predictors of the diastolic EL; whereas systolic blood pressure and left ventricular mass index were independent predictors of the systolic EL.

Conclusions

Left ventricular EL was a useful echocardiographic parameter to evaluate the impaired intracardiac blood flow efficiency in patients with stages 1–3 CKD. Hypertension was a crucial contributor for intracardiac blood flow abnormality. This study might provide valuable clinical data to discern cardiac dysfunction and reduce the cardiovascular risk in early-stage CKD.
Changing relative risk of clinical factors for hospital-acquired acute kidney injury across age groups: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wu Lijuan , Hu Yong , Zhang Xiangzhou , Chen Weiqi , Yu Alan S. L. , Kellum John A. , Waitman Lemuel R. , Liu Mei
Published: August 2020

Background

Likelihood of developing acute kidney injury (AKI) increases with age. We aimed to explore whether the predictability of AKI varies between age groups and assess the volatility of risk factors using electronic medical records (EMR).

Methods

We constructed a retrospective cohort of adult patients from all inpatient units of a tertiary care academic hospital and stratified it into four age groups: 18–35, 36–55, 56–65, and > 65. Potential risk factors collected from EMR for the study cohort included demographics, vital signs, medications, laboratory values, past medical diagnoses, and admission diagnoses. AKI was defined based on the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) serum creatinine criteria. We analyzed relative importance of the risk factors in predicting AKI using Gradient Boosting Machine algorithm and explored the predictability of AKI across age groups using multiple machine learning models.

Results

In our cohort, older patients showed a significantly higher incidence of AKI than younger adults: 18–35 (7.29%), 36–55 (8.82%), 56–65 (10.53%), and > 65 (10.55%) (p < 0.001). However, the predictability of AKI decreased with age, where the best cross-validated area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) achieved for age groups 18–35, 36–55, 56–65, and > 65 were 0.784 (95% CI, 0.769–0.800), 0.766 (95% CI, 0.754–0.777), 0.754 (95% CI, 0.741–0.768), and 0.725 (95% CI, 0.709–0.737), respectively. We also observed that the relative risk of AKI predictors fluctuated between age groups.

Conclusions

As complexity of the cases increases with age, it is more difficult to quantify AKI risk for older adults in inpatient population.
Does hypothyroidism increase the risk of breast cancer: evidence from a meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Bolin , Lu Zhong , Huang Yan , Li Ruobao , Lin Tao
Published: August 2020

Purpose

At present, the relationship between hypothyroidism and the risk of breast cancer is still inconclusive. This meta-analysis was used to systematically assess the relationship between hypothyroidism and breast cancer risk, and to assess whether thyroid hormone replacement therapy can increase breast cancer risk.

Methods

The relevant articles about hypothyroidism and the risk of breast cancer were obtained on the electronic database platform. Relevant data were extracted, and odd ratios (OR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were merged using Stata SE 12.0 software.

Results

A total of 19 related studies were included in the meta-analysis, including 6 cohort studies and 13 case-control studies. The results show that hypothyroidism was not related to the risk of breast cancer (odd ratios = 0.90, 95% CI 0.77–1.03). In the European subgroup, we observed that patients with hypothyroidism have a lower risk of breast cancer(odd ratios = 0.93, 95% CI 0.88–0.99). Furthermore, no significant correlation was observed between thyroid hormone replacement therapy and the risk of breast cancer. (odd ratios = 0.87, 95% CI 0.65–1.09).

Conclusion

Hypothyroidism may reduce the risk of breast cancer in the European population, and no significant correlation was observed between hypothyroidism and breast cancer risk in non-European populations. Due to the limited number of studies included, more large-scale, high-quality, long-term prospective cohort studies are needed.
The value of bronchial and cavity contraction rates in differentiating benign and malignant pulmonary cavities
Authors: Zhang Hua , Qian Xia , Liu Zheng-Hua , Gong Yi
Published: August 2020

Background

The present study aimed to assess the value of bronchial and cavity contraction percentages in differentiating benign and malignant pulmonary cavities.

Methods

Forty-two patients with pulmonary cavities were scanned by dual-phase computed tomography (CT). Then, the cavity and bronchial contraction percentages were respectively measured, the differences between the benign and malignant cavities were compared, and the best diagnostic critical point for differentiating benign and malignant cavities was obtained through the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve of the diagnostic test.

Results

The contraction percentage of the bronchial end with benign cavities was significantly higher than that of the bronchial end with malignant cavities (P < 0.001). The contraction percentage was significantly higher in the benign group than in the malignant group (P < 0.001). The ROC analysis revealed that the sensitivity and specificity of the bronchial contraction percentage was 90.50 and 86.40%, respectively, while the sensitivity and specificity of the cavity contraction percentage was 90.50 and 90.90%, respectively.

Conclusion

The dual-phase CT scanning of the bronchial and cavity contraction percentage can distinguish between benign and malignant cavities.
Can clinical and urodynamic parameters predict the occurrence of neutralizing antibodies in therapy failure of intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxin A injections in patients with spinal cord injury?
Authors: Tiburtius Christian , Böthig Ralf , Kowald Birgitt , Hirschfeld Sven , Thietje Roland
Published: August 2020

Background

The aim of the study was to clarify whether clinical and/or urodynamic parameters could be used to infer the probability of neutralizing antibody (NAb) formation as a possible cause of therapy failure (non-response, NR) in patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) due to acquired spinal cord injury/disease (SCI/D) treated with intradetrusor botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) injections.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed of all patients with SCI/D who underwent both intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxin A injections and the determination of neutralizing antibodies against BoNT-A between January 1, 2002, and December 31, 2018. NR was defined as urodynamically confirmed persistent or reappearing NDO.

Results

A total of 2700 BoNT-A injections in 414 patients were ascertained. In 69 patients with primary NR after the first BoNT-A injection (n = 6) or with secondary NR after more than one BoNT-A injection (n = 63), an antibody analysis was performed. Antibody examination showed 36 (52.2%) negative, 5 (7.2%) borderline and 14 (each 20.3%) each of positive and highly positive values. Subgroup analysis indicated a correlation between NAb formation and the duration of BoNT-A therapy (p = 0.015), the mean number of BoNT-A injections (p = 0.011) and the time interval between BoNT-A applications (< 7 months, p = 0.022). Urodynamic data analysis indicate significant differences with cut-off values of MCC (< 225 ml, p = 0.038) and MDP (> 45 cmH2O, p = 0.040). However, in the regression analysis models, the predictive value for the occurrence of NAb was too low (MCC: ROC AUC 0.62, MDP: ROC AUC 0.52) to distinguish with sufficient certainty between NAb-positive and NAb-negative NR patients.

Conclusions

Despite significant correlations, clinical and urodynamic parameters are only partially suitable for predicting antibody formation against BoNT-A.
Evaluation of vacuum phenomenon in dogs with coxofemoral degenerative joint disease using computed tomography
Authors: Kanthavichit Kanokporn , Klaengkaew Auraiwan , Srisowanna Naparee , Chaivoravitsakul Nardtiwa , Horoongruang Kongthit , Thanaboonnipat Chutimon , Soontornvipart Kumpanart , Choisunirachon Nan
Published: August 2020

Background

Degenerative joint disease (DJD) is a common orthopedic lesion in the coxofemoral joint of canine patients. Concurrent with the sign of degeneration, the vacuum phenomenon (VP), or intra-articular gas, has been observed in several locations in both human and canine patients. A cadaveric study described VP in small breed dogs without DJD but with hip laxity. However, none of the canine VP reports mentioned coxofemoral DJD. Therefore, the aim of this retrospective study was to describe the distribution of coxofemoral VP revealed on computed tomography (CT) imaging in canine patients with DJD.

Results

A total of 282 dogs (564 coxofemoral joints), comprising 142 small, 85 large, and 55 medium breeds, were included in the present study. DJD was found in 31.02% of all dogs. The incidence of DJD was highest in large breed dogs (50%), followed by medium (31.81%) and small (19.36%) breed dogs. In addition, VP was detected with CT using the pulmonary window in 31 joints of 25 dogs that received a diagnosis of hip degenerative disease. VP was found most frequently at the laterodorsal area of the acetabulum. The incidences of VP in large, small, and medium breed dogs were 35.94%, 17.14% and 8.33%, respectively. The presence of coxofemoral VP was significantly and positively correlated with DJD (odds ratio = 17.58, 95% CI 2.32–133.42).

Conclusions

The presence of coxofemoral joint DJD and VP was more likely to be detected in large breed dogs, especially in those with established DJD. CT is an advanced diagnostic imaging modality that can be used to reveal VP lesions, most of which are reported at the laterodorsal acetabulum. Further studies, including comparisons of different patient positions, may reveal more information regarding coxofemoral VP.
Investigating the association between physicians self-efficacy regarding communication skills and risk of “burnout”
Authors: Messerotti Andrea , Banchelli Federico , Ferrari Silvia , Barbieri Emiliano , Bettelli Francesca , Bandieri Elena , Giusti Davide , Catellani Hillary , Borelli Eleonora , Colaci Elisabetta , Pioli Valeria , Morselli Monica , Forghieri Fabio , Galeazzi Gian Maria , Marasca Roberto , Bigi Sarah , D’Amico Roberto , Martin Peter , Efficace Fabio , Luppi Mario , Potenza Leonardo
Published: August 2020

Background

Breaking bad news (BBN) may be associated with increasing risk of burnout in practising physicians. However, there is little research on the association between the way bad news is broken and burnout. We investigated the association between physicians’ self-efficacy regarding communication to patients and risk of burnout.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional study by proposing an ad-hoc survey exploring attitudes and practice regarding BBN and the Maslach Burnout Inventory - Human Service Survey to 379 physicians from two University Hospitals in Italy. Associations were assessed by multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

Two-hundred twenty-six (60%) physicians returned the questionnaires. 76% of physicians acquired communication skills by observing mentors or colleagues, 64% considered BBN as discussing a poor prognosis, 56% reported discussing prognosis as the most difficult task, 38 and 37% did not plan a BBN encounter and considered it stressful. The overall burnout rate was 59%. Considering BBN a stressful task was independently associated with high risk of burnout (OR 3.01; p = 0.013). Planning the encounter (OR = 0.43, p = 0.037), mastering communication skills (OR = 0.19, p = 0.034) and the self-evaluation as good or very good at BBN (OR 0.32; 0.15 to 0.71; p = 0.0) were associated with low risk of burnout.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that some physicians’ BBN attitudes and knowledge of conceptual frameworks may influence the risk of burnout and support the notion that increasing knowledge about communication skills may protect clinicians from burnout. Further research is needed in this area.
Influence of human chorionic gonadotrophin during ovarian stimulation: an overview
Authors: Smitz Johan , Platteau Peter
Published: August 2020

It is widely known that luteinising hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) are integral in the female reproductive lifecycle. Due to the common binding site and similarity in molecular structure, they were previously thought to have overlapping roles. However, with the development of both purified urinary-derived and recombinant gonadotrophins, the individual characteristics of these molecules have begun to be defined. There is evidence to suggest that LH and hCG preferentially activate different signalling cascades and display different receptor-binding kinetics. The data generated on the two molecules have led to an improved understanding of their distinct physiological functions, resulting in a debate among clinicians regarding the most beneficial use of LH- and hCG-containing products for ovarian stimulation (OS) in assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Over the past few decades, a number of trials have generated data supporting the use of hCG for OS in ART. Indeed, the data indicated that hCG plays an important role in folliculogenesis, leads to improved endometrial receptivity and is associated with a higher quality of embryos, while presenting a favourable safety profile. These observations support the increased use of hCG as a method to provide LH bioactivity during OS. This review summarises the molecular and functional differences between hCG and LH, and provides an overview of the clinical trial data surrounding the use of products for OS that contain LH bioactivity, examining their individual effect on outcomes such as endometrial receptivity, oocyte yield and embryo quality, as well as key pregnancy outcomes.
Meta-analysis of serum and/or plasma D-dimer in the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection
Authors: Li Cheng , Margaryan Donara , Ojeda-Thies Cristina , Perka Carsten , Trampuz Andrej
Published: August 2020

Background

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the diagnostic value of D-dimer in detecting periprosthetic joint infection (PJI).

Methods

A systematic search and screening of relevant studies was performed in the databases PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase using the following medical subject headings (MeSH) or keywords: “arthroplasty or joint prosthesis or joint replacement or periprosthetic joint or prosthetic joint”, “infection or infectious or infected”, and “D-dimer or serum D-dimer or plasma D-dimer or fibrin degradation products”. Data were subsequently analysed and processed using Meta-Disc.

Results

Seven studies with 1285 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, and diagnostic odds ratio were 0.75 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.70–0.79), 0.69 (95% CI 0.66–0.72), 3.01 (95% CI 1.84–4.93), 0.32 (95% CI 0.19–0.53), and 10.20 (95% CI 3.63–28.64), respectively. Subgroup analyses showed that the use of serum D-dimer had better sensitivity and specificity than plasma D-dimer for the diagnosis of PJI.

Conclusions

Serum D-dimer was shown to have a better diagnostic value than plasma D-dimer for the diagnosis of PJI. Further research is required for clarification.
Characterization of tracheobronchomalacia in infants with hypophosphatasia
Authors: Padidela Raja , Yates Robert , Benscoter Dan , McPhail Gary , Chan Elaine , Nichani Jaya , Mughal M. Zulf , Myer Charles , Narayan Omendra , Nissenbaum Claire , Wilkinson Stuart , Zhou Shanggen , Saal Howard M.
Published: August 2020

Background

Perinatal and infantile hypophosphatasia (HPP) are associated with respiratory failure and respiratory complications. Effective management of such complications is of key clinical importance. In some infants with HPP, severe tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) contributes to respiratory difficulties. The objective of this study is to characterize the clinical features, investigations and management in these patients.

Methods

We report a case series of five infants with perinatal HPP, with confirmed TBM, who were treated with asfotase alfa and observed for 3–7 years. Additionally, we reviewed respiratory function data in a subgroup of patients with perinatal and infantile HPP included in the clinical trials of asfotase alfa, who required high-pressure respiratory support (positive end-expiratory pressure [PEEP] ≥6 cm H2O and/or peak inspiratory pressure ≥18 cm H2O) during the studies.

Results

The case series showed that TBM contributed significantly to respiratory morbidity, and prolonged respiratory support with high PEEP was required. However, TBM improved over time, allowing weaning of all patients from ventilator use. The review of clinical trial data included 20 patients and found a high degree of heterogeneity in PEEP requirements across the cohort; median PEEP was 8 cm H2O at any time and some patients presented with high PEEP (≥8 cm H2O) over periods of more than 6 months.

Conclusion

In infants with HPP presenting with persistent respiratory complications, it is important to screen for TBM and initiate appropriate respiratory support and treatment with asfotase alfa at an early stage.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov numbers: NCT00744042, registered 27 August 2008; NCT01205152, registered 17 September 2010; NCT01176266, registered 29 July 2010.
The SLC36 transporter Pathetic is required for neural stem cell proliferation and for brain growth under nutrition restriction
Authors: Feng Shiyun , Zacharioudaki Evanthia , Millen Kat , Bray Sarah J.
Published: August 2020

Background

Drosophila neuroblasts (NBs) are neural stem cells whose maintenance relies on Notch activity. NBs proliferate throughout larval stages to generate a large number of adult neurons. Their proliferation is protected under conditions of nutrition restriction but the mechanisms responsible are not fully understood. As amino acid transporters (Solute Carrier transporters, SLCs), such as SLC36, have important roles in coupling nutrition inputs to growth pathways, they may have a role in this process. For example, an SLC36 family transporter Pathetic (Path) that supports body size and neural dendrite growth in Drosophila, was identified as a putative Notch target in genome-wide studies. However, its role in sustaining stem cell proliferation and maintenance has not been investigated. This study aimed to investigate the function of Path in the larval NBs and to determine whether it is involved in protecting them from nutrient deprivation.

Methods

The expression and regulation of Path in the Drosophila larval brain was analysed using a GFP knock-in allele and reporter genes containing putative Notch regulated enhancers. Path function in NB proliferation and overall brain growth was investigated under different nutrition conditions by depleting it from specific cell types in the CNS, using mitotic recombination to generate mutant clones or by directed RNA-interference.

Results

Path is expressed in both NBs and glial cells in the Drosophila CNS. In NBs, path is directly targeted by Notch signalling via Su(H) binding at an intronic enhancer, PathNRE. This enhancer is responsive to Notch regulation both in cell lines and in vivo. Loss of path in neural stem cells delayed proliferation, consistent with it having a role in NB maintenance. Expression from pathNRE was compromised in conditions of amino acid deprivation although other Notch regulated enhancers are unaffected. However, NB-expressed Path was not required for brain sparing under amino acid deprivation. Instead, it appears that Path is important in glial cells to help protect brain growth under conditions of nutrient restriction.

Conclusions

We identify a novel Notch target gene path that is required in NBs for neural stem cell proliferation, while in glia it protects brain growth under nutrition restriction.
Evaluation of different storage times and preservation methods on phlebotomine sand fly DNA concentration and purity
Authors: Sales Kamila Gaudêncio da Silva , Miranda Débora Elienai de Oliveira , da Silva Fernando José , Otranto Domenico , Figueredo Luciana Aguiar , Dantas-Torres Filipe
Published: August 2020

Background

Different methods have been used to preserve phlebotomine sand flies for research purposes, including for taxonomic studies and detection ofLeishmaniaspp. Here, we evaluated the effect of various preservation methods at different storage times on phlebotomine sand fly DNA concentration and purity.

Methods

Field-collected phlebotomine sand flies were individually stored in 70% ethanol (G1) and 95% ethanol (G2) at room temperature, 70% ethanol (G3) and 95% ethanol (G4) at 8 °C or frozen dry (i.e. no preservation solution) at − 20 °C (G5). DNA concentration and purity were assessed at various storage times (T1, ≤ 12 h; T2, 3 months; T3, 6 months; T4, 9 months; and T5, 12 months). Fragments of the cytochromecoxidase subunit 1 (cox1) and cacophony (CAC) genes of phlebotomine sand flies were also amplified.

Results

Mean DNA concentration (P = 0.178) and 260/280 purity ratios (P = 0.584) did not vary significantly among various preservation methods and storage times. Within each group, DNA concentration varied in G1 (Kruskal-Wallis H-test,P = 0.009) for T3vsT4 (Dunn’spost-hoc,P < 0.05), and in G2 (Kruskal-Wallis H-test,P = 0.004) for T1vsT2 and T1vsT4 (Dunn’spost-hoc,P < 0.05). For 260/280 purity ratios, the only statistically significant difference was found for G5 (Kruskal-Wallis H-test,P = 0.020) between T1vsT4 (Dunn’spost-hoctest,P < 0.05). Thecox1 andCACgenes were successfully amplified, regardless of the preservation method and storage time; except in one sample from G2 at T1, for which theCACgene failed to amplify.

Conclusions

The preservation methods and storage times herein evaluated did not affect the concentration and purity of DNA samples obtained from field-collected phlebotomine sand flies, for up to 12 months. Furthermore, these preservation methods did not interfere with PCR amplification ofCACandcox1 genes, being suitable for molecular analyses under the conditions studied herein.
Influence of Initial Damage Degree on the Degradation of Concrete Under Sulfate Attack and Wetting–Drying Cycles
Authors: Lv Yujing , Zhang Wenhua , Wu Fan , Li Huang , Zhang Yunsheng , Xu Guodong
Published: August 2020

The previous researches on the degradation process of concrete under sulfate attack mainly focus on non-damaged concrete. It may lead to an excessive evaluation of the durability of the structure, which is detrimental to the safety of the structure. In this paper, three different damage degrees of concrete specimens with non-damaged (D0) and initial damage of 10% (D1) and 20% (D2) were prefabricated and subjected to sulfate attack and wetting–drying cycles. With the increase of sulfate attack cycles (0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 cycles), the changes in mass loss, relative dynamic modulus of elasticity, and the stress–strain curve were studied. The results show that the mass of the D0 specimen had been increasing continuously before 150 sulfate attack cycles. The mass of D1 and D2 had been increasing before 60 cycles, and decreasing after 60 cycles. At 150 cycles, the mass loss of D0, D1, D2 were − 1.054%, 0.29% and 3.20%, respectively. The relative dynamic modulus of elasticity (RDME) of D0 specimen increases continuously before 90 sulfate attack cycles. After 90 cycles, the RDME gradually decreases. However, for D1 and D2 specimens, the RDME began to decrease after 30 cycles. The damage degree has an obvious influence on the compressive strength and elastic modulus. For the D0 specimen, the compressive strength and elastic modulus increased continuously before 90 cycles and decreased after 90 cycles. The compressive strength and elastic modulus of D1 and D2 specimens began to decrease after 30 cycles. The stress–strain curves of concrete with different initial damage degrees were established, and the fitting results were good. Finally, based on the analysis of experimental data, the degradation mechanism of concrete with initial damage under the sulfate wetting–drying cycle was discussed.
Role of platelet biomarkers in inflammatory response
Authors: Chen Yufei , Zhong Haoxuan , Zhao Yikai , Luo Xinping , Gao Wen
Published: August 2020

Beyond hemostasis, thrombosis and wound healing, it is becoming increasingly clear that platelets play an integral role in inflammatory response and immune regulation. Platelets recognize pathogenic microorganisms and secrete various immunoregulatory cytokines and chemokines, thus facilitating a variety of immune effects and regulatory functions. In this review, we discuss recent advances in signaling of platelet activation-related biomarkers in inflammatory settings and application prospects to apply for disease diagnosis and treatment.
An investigation of novice ESL writers’ cognitive processes and strategy use of paraphrasing
Authors: Di Zhang Emily
Published: August 2020

Source use competence is becoming increasingly important in English-medium universities, and inability to appropriately use reading sources leads to plagiarism which has serious punishable consequences. As one effective strategy to help academic writers to avoid plagiarism, paraphrasing is highly recommended for students to master. However, studies on paraphrasing are product-oriented, and few examined the processes and strategies of paraphrasing. The elusive construct of paraphrasing exerted a negative influence on the instruction and assessment of paraphrasing. Only specific paraphrasing strategies were examined in prior studies, and little has been done on more general strategies like cognitive and metacognitive strategies. Moreover, as for the studies of learner strategy and language performance, no consensus has been reached about the relationship between strategy use and language performance. Prior studies mainly adopted Purpura’s questionnaire (1997) with cognitive and metacognitive strategies excluding other important learner strategies, and prior studies mainly examined language performance in non-integrated tasks. Questionnaire and interview were employed in previous studies, but few has adopted think-aloud protocols to capture test takers’ online cognitive processes. To address the research gap, the present study purports to shed light on the cognitive processes and strategy use in the paraphrasing task with the method of think-aloud protocols and strategy use questionnaire. A total of 212 first-year non-English-major college students were recruited to respond to a seven-item paraphrasing task. Think-aloud protocol was conducted to capture test takers’ thinking processes while responding to the task. In addition, test takers’ strategy use in paraphrasing was elicited by a paraphrasing strategy use inventory. Findings of the study are as follows: test takers employed numerous strategies including cognitive, metacognitive, compensation, and affective strategies with a variety of sub-strategies; metacognitive strategies are significantly correlated with cognitive strategies; more proficient test takers used a smaller number of strategies and more metacognitive strategies. However, structural equation modeling analysis reported that all those strategies exert a negligible effect on participants’ paraphrasing performance. Other factors which might contribute to the language performance were analyzed, including language knowledge, test methods, personal attributes, and errors of measurement.