bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction to the Special Issue “Canonizing and Contesting Communist-Era Dissent in Eastern Europe: Actors, Representations, and Impacts since 1989”
Authors: Laczó Ferenc
Published: November 2024

This special issue in historical and memory studies analyzes two interrelated processes. It explores how the dissident past has been negotiated, contested, or reclaimed since 1989 and how key post-dissident actors have employed their own pasts as a moral and political resource after 1989, with what consequences. The issue approaches post-dissident history and the memory of dissent after 1989 in a regional-comparative frame while paying ample attention to transnational dynamics, such as interactions between Western recognition and national contestation. The issue thus analyzes the varied meanings east Europeans have assigned to dissident pasts and post-dissident presents and how the contests over such meanings have come to shape their politics and culture. Individual contributions focus on post-dissident actors, their representations, or their impact. A focus on actors enables in-depth exploration of post-dissident politics across the Visegrád countries and how the dissident experience was translated, via a politics of consensus, into liberal politics during the early years of “transition.” This focus also yields studies that analyze how post-dissidents have drawn on the intellectual authority and moral credibility they derived from their dissident pasts. Other studies in the collection trace transformation in the representation of forms of dissent in the decades since 1989 and the changing political and cultural values such representations have conveyed. Still other studies explore and reflect on the reasons behind the backlash against the post-dissident canon and its leading representatives while also considering ways in which “dissident heroes” have been posthumously reclaimed.
Walking the Orientalism Tightrope: How Muslim Americans Construct their Gender Ideologies
Authors: Abdelhadi Eman , Fox Anna
Published: November 2024

Political and popular tropes portray Muslims as monolithically, uniquely, and inherently patriarchal and misogynistic—a phenomenon of which Muslims are acutely aware. This study asks whether and how Islamophobic tropes influence Muslims’ gender ideologies. Using life history interviews with Muslim Americans, we find a diversity of gender beliefs, challenging the discourses that frame Muslims’ gender ideologies as monolithic. Four major typologies emerge in our data: Loyalist Complementarians, Patriarchal Reactionaries, Critical Egalitarians, and Reformist Egalitarians. These beliefs are multifaceted and are composed of a dialogic exchange between beliefs toward gender relations, perceptions of Islamic doctrine, and negotiation with what we call the Orientalist gaze. Each group navigates how their ideas about gender fit into or challenge a broader society that is scrutinizing Muslims, and each group articulates their gender beliefs through and against Islamophobic discourse, a process akin to walking an Orientalism tightrope.
Plasma exosomes may mediate the development of lupus nephritis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Liu Jie , Liu Yuanju , Xu Yinde , Ye Jianjun , Zhu Yun , Li Xiaolan
Published: November 2024

Background

Lupus nephritis (LN) is the most serious complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and plasma exosomes may serve as a bridge. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are abundant in exosomes, so this study aimed to explore the role of exosome-derived miRNA in the development of LN.

Methods

The publicly available data containing plasma exosomal miRNAs in SLE patients and healthy controls were researched, and differential expression and functional enrichment analysis of exosomal miRNA was conducted. Then, plasma exosomes from SLE patients were extracted, and the accuracy of differential expression and functional enrichment analysis was preliminarily verified. PKH26 dye was used to label exosomes to detect whether exosomes can enter HK2 cells. Evaluation of plasma exosomes impact on cell viability was done by utilizing CCK-8 assay. Flow cytometry was used to measure cell apoptosis.

Results

Plasma exosomes were successfully extracted and identified. Through differential expression analysis of the pulbilic data and subsequent qPCR validation, we observed that miR-20b-5p is overexpressed in plasma exosomes of SLE patients, whereas miR-181a-2-3p is downregulated. Then functional enrichment analysis revealed that these differential miRNAs primarily regulate processes such as apoptosis, autophagy, and inflammation. Then, flow cytometry analysis conducted after co-incubation of plasma exosomes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells confirmed that exosomes can indeed regulate apoptosis. And plasma exosomes can successfully enter HK2 cells without affecting cell activity. In addition, plasma exosomes promote HK2 cell apoptosis and autophagy. Overexpression of miR-181a-2-3p could inhibit HK2 cells apoptosis and upregulate the expression of bcl2, and beclin1. At the same time, a trend towards increased apoptosis rates was observed in HK2 overexpressed miR-20b-5p, although the difference did not reach statistical significance. And miR-20b-5p can enhance the expression of caspase3 and becin1 while suppressing the expression of bcl2 and LC3β.

Conclusion

Our research indicates that the abundant presence of miR-20b-5p and the depletion of miR-181a-2-3p in plasma exosomes of SLE patients may mediate the promotion of apoptosis and autophagy in HK2 cells, thereby causing kidney damage and the development of LN.
Extraction and In Vitro and In Vivo Antioxidant Activity Evaluation of Polyphenols from Lychee Pericarp
Authors: Wang Ying , Deng Hong , Yu Chuqin , Ban Junfeng , Zhang Shu
Published: October 2024

Background

Finding a new promising plant antioxidant to combat or prevent cardiovascular disease remains a major challenge for researchers. Lychee pericarp, which includes a variety of polyphenols, is a prospective source of botanical antioxidants.

Purpose

In response to this issue, we assessed the effect of lychee bark extract on oxygen radical scavenging capacity and separate vascular protective ability in vivo.

Methods

In the current study, the lychee pericarp enrichment product (RLP) was obtained by optimizing an extraction method and separated using modern separation methods. The structure of the isolated compounds was assessed using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry, and the content of polyphenols obtained from the extract was quantified using the area normalization method. In addition, the capacity of RLP to scavenge oxygen radicals in vitro was assessed using the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and T-AOC (total antioxidant capacity) techniques. Furthermore, an isoprenaline hydrochloride (ISO)-induced rat model of acute myocardial ischemia was established, and four biochemical indicators were used to assess the effect of lychee bark extract on oxygen radical scavenging capacity and cardiovascular protective ability in vivo.

Results

RLP extraction produced 11 chemicals, 6 of which were structurally assessed. Quantitative analysis revealed that epicatechin, PC-C(epicatechin-(4β↓8,2β↓O↓7)-epicatechin-(4β↓8)-epicatechin), type A proanthocyanidin trimer, proanthocyanidin A2, and type B proanthocyanidin dimer were the most abundant polyphenols. The in vitro DPPH and T-AOC findings revealed that RLP exhibited strong free radical scavenging activity, approximately 1.5-fold that of vitamin C. The four biochemical indicators confirmed the antioxidant activity and cardiovascular protective ability of RLP in vivo.

Conclusion

RLP has good in vivo and in vitro antioxidant activity, confirming lychee pericarp as a prospective source of botanical antioxidants.
Evaluation of the results of closed kinetic chain exercises applied in the conservative treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome by means of shear wave elastography: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kultur Yigit , Harbiyeli Emir , Botanlioglu Huseyin , Ozsahin Mahmut K , Ozturhalli Sude , Aydingoz Onder , Erginer Mehmet R
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Non-selective closed kinetic chain exercises (NSKCE) and or selective closed kinetic chain exercises (SCKCE) has been shown to increase Vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) muscle power in patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). However, the superiority of the exercises to each other has not been shown. This study aimed to evaluating the effects of different exercises on the stiffness of the VMO and vastus lateralis (VL) muscles, pain management, functional scores, and thigh circumferences.

Methods

One hundred 60 knees of 80 patients followed up in our outpatient clinic between December 2016 and February 2018 were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups as 40 patients with single-sided PFPS (20 male and 20 female patients) and 40 healthy controls (20 male and 20 female patients). The patients in each group were divided into subgroups according to NSCKCE or SCKCE. VMO and VL muscles were measured by shear wave elastography (SWE) before and after a 6-weeks therapy.

Results

There was a significant decrease in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score while a significant increase was found in Lysholm Knee Scale (LKS), however, no statistically difference was found between the two exercise groups in PFPS patients. The effect of both exercises on pain and functional improvement was similar.

Conclusion

Decrease in VAS scores, increase in LKS scores, increase in thigh circumference measurements, and increase in the stiffness of VMO and VL muscles were observed in both groups who received SCKCE and NSCKCE on PFPS patients.

Trial Registration

Study registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (registration number: NCT05427357).

Design

Randomized controlled trial.
Healthcare Professionals’ Perspective on Supporting Patients and Family Caregivers in End-Of-Life Care Decision-Making: A Qualitative Study in Specialist Palliative Care
Authors: Featherstone Hannah J. , McQuillan Regina , Foley Geraldine
Published: November 2024

Background

Healthcare professionals in specialist palliative care have a key role in conducting end-of-life care discussions with patients and their family caregivers. We aimed to identify key barriers and facilitators for healthcare professionals in specialist palliative care to support patients and their family caregivers in decision-making for patient end-of-life care.

Methods

Twenty-two healthcare professionals from different healthcare professions were recruited from a large regional specialist palliative care service in Ireland comprising 2 hospice sites. Five focus groups were conducted with participants. Data were member checked and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Open communication and trusting relationships with patients and family caregivers combined with sufficient time for early and phased exploration of the patient’s preferences for end-of-life care, were key facilitators for participants. Family caregivers keeping information from the patient, family misunderstanding about who is responsible for decision-making, and a lack of involvement of other specialties in end-of-life care discussions were perceived by participants as key barriers. Although participants indicated they had sufficient expertise to support patients in end-of-life care decision-making, they felt that end-of-life care discussions were not solely the responsibility of specialist palliative care services.

Conclusion

Open communication with patients in end-of-life care decision-making can be of central importance for healthcare professionals in specialist palliative care. Further research is needed to understand the role of healthcare professionals outside of specialist palliative care in end-of-life care discussions and decision-making.
Expressive Epistemic Injustice: Definition, Measurement, and Deliberative Cure
Authors: Dryzek John S. , Niemeyer Simon J.
Published: November 2024

Epistemic injustice means that knowledge relevant to collective decisions gets discounted, thus inflicting harm on disadvantaged groups. The most familiar kinds (established by Fricker 2007) are testimonial (dismissing arguments because of the social characteristics of the speaker) and hermeneutical (lack of collective interpretive resources to make sense of oppression). We develop the idea of expressive epistemic justice, which exists when social forces induce a systematic failure for an individual or group’s values and beliefs to be reflected in what the individual or group expresses as its wants. Expressive epistemic injustice can persist even if testimonial and hermeneutic injustice were to be eliminated. The degree of failure can be quantified, enabling us in an empirical analysis of multiple cases to locate the source of expressive epistemic injustice in the conditions of discourse in a public sphere awash in symbolic manipulations by relatively powerful actors. We then show how citizen deliberation can remedy expressive epistemic justice. Our analysis adds to existing epistemic arguments for deliberative democracy, for it shows that deliberation increases the likelihood that collective decisions will respond to the values and beliefs that define these decisions as good to begin with.
Anesthetic Considerations for Endovascular Repair of the Thoracic Aorta
Authors: Valencia Olivia M. , Powell Thomas , Khalifa Ali , Orozco-Sevilla Vicente , Tolpin Daniel A.
Published: November 2024

Thoracic aorta pathologies, especially those of the ascending aorta and aortic arch, were traditionally approached via open surgical repair. This carries risk of ischemic end-organ damage and other complications. Endovascular repair of ascending aorta and aortic arch pathologies is becoming more successful and widespread, thereby posing numerous challenges to the anesthesiologist. This article reviews the anesthesia-pertinent pathophysiology, repair techniques, preoperative evaluation, intraoperative management, and postoperative care of patients presenting for endovascular repair of thoracic aorta pathologies.
The Effects of Nanoplastics on the Dopamine System of Cerebrocortical Neurons
Authors: Kim Na-Hyun , Lee Young-A
Published: November 2024

Nanoplastics (NPx) can enter living organisms, including humans, through ecosystems, inhalation, and dermal contact and can be found from the intestine to the brain. However, it is unclear whether NPx accumulates and affects the dopamine system. In this study, we investigated the effects of NPx on the dopamine system in cultured murine cerebral cortex neurons. Cultured cerebrocortical neurons were treated with 100 nm NPx at the following concentrations for 24 h: 1.896 × 105, 3.791 × 106, 7.583 × 107, 1.571 × 109, 3.033 × 1010, and 3.033 × 1011 particles/mL. Dopamine-associated proteins were analyzed using immunofluorescence staining. NPx treatment induced its accumulation in neurons in a dose-dependent manner and increased the levels of dopamine receptors D1 and D2 and their co-expression. However, NPx treatment did not affect the levels of other dopamine receptors, dopamine transporters, tyrosine hydroxylase, and microtubule-associated protein 2, or synaptophysin in neuronal structures. This study demonstrated that NPx is a potential modulator of the dopamine system via its receptors rather than its synthesis and reuptake in neurons and may be associated with dopamine-based psychiatric disorders.
Doxycycline with or without famciclovir for infectious ophthalmic and respiratory disease: a prospective, randomized, masked, placebo-controlled trial in 373 kittens
Authors: Vernau Karen M , Kim Soohyun , Thomasy Sara M , Lucyshyn Danica R , Purpura Jordyn , Montgomery Elizabeth , Surmick Jennifer D , Dubelko Ariana R , Moussavi Ardalan , Kass Philip H , Maggs David J
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate in a randomized, triple-masked, placebo-controlled trial, outcomes for kittens with ocular manifestations of infectious upper respiratory disease (IURD) treated with an ophthalmic and oral antibiotic only vs those also treated with famciclovir.

Methods

Kittens were stratified into three age (1 to <4, 4 to <8 or 8–12 weeks) and two disease severity (‘mild’ [total disease score 1–11] or ‘severe’ [total disease score 12–23]) groups and randomized to receive approximately 5 mg/kg doxycycline either with placebo (group D) or with approximately 90 mg/kg famciclovir (group DF) PO q12h. Caregivers scored clinical signs once daily for 21 days. Ophthalmic examinations and scoring by veterinarians were completed on days 1 and 21. Ophthalmic and clinical resolution were defined as scores of zero for all ocular signs and all ocular and respiratory signs, respectively. Ophthalmic and clinical recovery were defined by absence of active inflammation.

Results

For kittens with mild disease, those in group D were slower than those in group DF to achieve clinical recovery ( P = 0.049) and clinical resolution ( P = 0.030), but not ophthalmic recovery ( P = 0.064) or ophthalmic resolution ( P = 0.089). Kittens with mild disease and receiving famciclovir achieved predicted 75% clinical resolution 4–5 days earlier than kittens with mild disease and receiving doxycycline alone, and kittens with severe disease (regardless of treatment group). Significantly fewer kittens in group DF developed corneal disease than in group D ( P = 0.016). All five kittens whose clinical signs worsened sufficiently to be removed from the study were in group D.

Conclusions and relevance

The addition of famciclovir to standard antibiotic treatment may reduce corneal disease, length of stay and time to adoption for shelters and rescue groups, thereby increasing capacity for care. Early administration of famciclovir in kittens exhibiting mild ocular manifestations of IURD may be preferable to delaying this treatment until the disease progresses to a severe stage.
Commentary on “Large-Scale Pancreatic Cancer Detection via Non-Contrast CT and Deep Learning”
Authors: Alshybani Ibrahem
Published: November 2024

Cao et al. introduce PANDA, an AI model designed for the early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) using non-contrast CT scans. While the model shows great promise, it faces several challenges. Notably, its training predominantly on East Asian datasets raises concerns about generalizability across diverse populations. Additionally, PANDA’s ability to detect rare lesions, such as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs), could be improved by integrating other imaging modalities. High specificity is a strength, but it also poses risks of false positives, which may lead to unnecessary procedures and increased healthcare costs. Implementing a tiered diagnostic approach and expanding training data to include a wider demographic are essential steps for enhancing PANDA’s clinical utility and ensuring its successful global implementation, ultimately shifting the focus from late diagnosis to proactive early detection.
‘Face consciousness’ and ‘culture of embarrassment’ as stimulators to consumption: Exploring consumption decisions in the Jordanian context.
Authors: Khair Nadine , Al-Twal Arwa , Gammoh Leen
Published: November 2024

Culture impacts individuals in various ways as it sets guidelines in social situations and behavioural justifications. Fear of judgement and protecting ‘face’ are outcomes of collective cultures and this may impact consumption decisions. This research investigates the influence of ‘face-consciousness’ on consumption decisions in a collective culture, the Kingdom of Jordan. An investigative and flexible methodology was adopted to explore consumption habits over two stages, by which 18 participants were divided into three focus groups in the first stage and individual responsive interviews for stage two. The generation of themes is simultaneously done with the process of data generation to clarify meanings and interpretation throughout the hermeneutic spiral. Results reveal an original concept that tends to impact consumptions decisions as participants describe ‘culture of embarrassment’ as a primary stimulator to consumption. Future studies would be to specifically explore ‘Face Consciousness’ and ‘Culture of embarrassment’ on decision-making styles amongst individuals of collectivist and individualistic countries. Such an effort will definitely expand the set of cultural dimensions and will enhance the understanding of consumer decision behavior across cultural contexts.
Social media affordances of LGBTQIA+ expression and community formation
Authors: Are Carolina , Talbot Catherine , Briggs Pam
Published: November 2024

Faced with offline discrimination, LGBTQIA+ users frequently turn to social media to find role models, build social networks and test out new forms of self-expression. Each platform has its own affordances and governance processes which can, in turn, facilitate or impede self-expression and community growth. Through a survey of 120 LGBTQIA+ participants, this paper considers which social media affordances facilitate the creation and development of LGBTQIA+ identities, support online and offline community formation and peer-to-peer learning, whilst limiting opportunities for online abuse. While previous research has so far largely focused on younger LGBTQIA+ users' experiences on SM, we found that broadening our sample to include older participants can lead to novel reflections on platforms' potential and/or challenges towards expressing one’s queerness online. For example, while users young and old found the visibility of other LGBTQIA+ accounts inspiring, entertaining and reassuring, particularly within previously stigmatised expressions of bisexuality, we found that older participants preferred to be selective about their outness, or sometimes to not be out at all, not simply for fear of harassment or context collapse, but also because of historical factors around family and friend relationships or because their identity experimentation had already happened offline. We also identified contrasting views about outness and the use and visibility of pronouns, reminding us that the online LGBTQIA+ community is not a monolith in its beliefs and practices, particularly when different life stages are considered.
Human control and ‘management’ of nonhuman animals: New research directions for green criminology
Authors: Di Ronco Anna
Published: November 2024

This article enriches and invigorates the green criminological scholarship concerned with nonhuman animals by proposing two research directions centred around the critical analysis of human control and ‘management’ of wild animals. While the first of these directions considers the control of animals in the city, the second draws on green cultural criminology to deconstruct and unravel cultural, mediated and political dynamics surrounding nonhuman animal ‘management’. The article concludes by contending that, following these lines of research, green criminologists can contribute to reducing human-animal conflicts in the city and beyond, while also offering new ways of imagining human living alongside other species, rather than in spite of them.
Effects of Palliative Surgical Treatment for Spinal Metastases on the Patient’s Quality of Life With a Focus on the Segment of the Metastasis: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Segi Naoki , Nakashima Hiroaki , Ito Sadayuki , Ouchida Jun , Shiratani Yuki , Shimizu Takaki , Suzuki Akinobu , Terai Hidetomi , Kakutani Kenichiro , Kanda Yutaro , Tominaga Hiroyuki , Kawamura Ichiro , Ishihara Masayuki , Paku Masaaki , Takahashi Yohei , Funaba Masahiro , Funayama Toru , Nakajima Hideaki , Akeda Koji , Hirai Takashi , Inoue Hirokazu , Nakanishi Kazuo , Funao Haruki , Oshigiri Tsutomu , Otsuki Bungo , Kobayakawa Kazu , Tanishima Shinji , Hashimoto Ko , Iimura Takuya , Sawada Hirokatsu , Uotani Koji , Manabe Hiroaki , Iwai Chizuo , Yamabe Daisuke , Hiyama Akihiko , Seki Shoji , Goto Yuta , Miyazaki Masashi , Watanabe Kazuyuki , Nakamae Toshio , Kaito Takashi , Nagoshi Narihito , Kato Satoshi , Watanabe Kota , Imagama Shiro , Inoue Gen , Furuya Takeo
Published: November 2024

Study Design

Prospective multicenter study.

Objectives

Palliative surgery is crucial for maintaining the quality of life (QOL) in patients with spinal metastases. This study aimed to compare the short-term outcomes of QOL after palliative surgery between patients with metastatic spinal tumors at different segments.

Methods

We prospectively compared the data of 203 patients with spinal metastases at 2-3 consecutive segments who were divided into the following three groups: cervical, patients with cervical spine lesions; thoracic, patients with upper–middle thoracic spine lesions; and TL/L/S, patients with lesions at the thoracolumbar junction and lumbar and sacral regions. Preoperative and postoperative EuroQol 5-dimension (EQ5D) 5-level were compared.

Results

All groups exhibited improvement in the Frankel grade, performance status, pain, Barthel index, EQ5D health state utility value (HSUV), and EQ5D visual analog scale (VAS) postoperatively. Although preoperative EQ5D HSUVs did not significantly differ between the groups (cervical, 0.461 ± 0.291; thoracic, 0.321 ± 0.292; and TL/L/S, 0.376 ± 0.272), the thoracic group exhibited significantly lower postoperative EQ5D HSUVs than the other two groups (cervical, 0.653 ± 0.233; thoracic, 0.513 ± 0.252; and TL/L/S, 0.624 ± 0.232). However, postoperative EQ5D VAS was not significantly different between the groups (cervical, 63.4 ± 25.8; thoracic, 54.7 ± 24.5; and TL/L/S, 61.7 ± 21.9).

Conclusions

Palliative surgery for metastatic spinal tumors provided comparable QOL improvement, irrespective of the spinal segment involved. Patients with upper and middle thoracic spinal metastases had poorer QOL outcomes than those with metastases in other segments; however, sufficient QOL improvement was achieved.
Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies of Meniscus Root Tears: A Scoping Review
Authors: Garcia Jose Rafael , Ayala Salvador Gonzalez , Allende Felicitas , Mameri Enzo , Haynes Monique , Familiari Filippo , Geeslin Andrew G. , Murray Iain , Moatshe Gilbert , Verma Nikhil N. , LaPrade Robert F. , Chahla Jorge
Published: November 2024

Background:

Meniscus root tears comprise 10% to 21% of all meniscal tears. These tears alter knee biomechanics, elevating contact pressure, akin to a meniscectomy. Consequently, they are linked to advanced joint degeneration and cartilage damage in the affected compartment.

Purpose:

To systematically evaluate and relate the current literature describing the diagnosis and treatment strategies for meniscus root tears.

Study Design:

Scoping review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This review was conducted following the guidelines of the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) extension for scoping reviews. Inclusion criteria encompassed English-language clinical and preclinical research, technical notes, and narrative reviews on meniscus root tears. Exclusion criteria were studies on patellar tendon rupture, studies on medial patellofemoral ligament rupture with additional knee joint ligament injuries, studies of patients <16 years old, and studies involving open fractures. The data were summarized using a descriptive analysis and a thematic analysis.

Results:

After 1425 articles were identified, 461 studies were included; 17% (n = 78) were case reports or case series, 15% (n = 71) were technical notes, 9% (n = 41) addressed aspects of diagnosis, 7% (n = 32 ) were narrative reviews, and 5% (n = 21) were systematic reviews or meta-analyses. Studies presenting original data comprised 57% (n = 262) of all included studies, and 97% of the studies were of evidence levels 3 to 5. Contributions were mainly from the United States (n = 123; 27%), Republic of Korea (n = 102; 22%), and Japan (n = 99; 21%). Many studies (n = 216; 47%) focused on the treatment and outcomes of meniscus root tears. A significant chronological surge in the quantity of studies addressing the diagnosis and treatment of meniscus root tears was evident, particularly over the past 3 years. Consensus was found regarding the definition of meniscus root tears, the advantages of early repair, and postoperative rehabilitation protocols. The variations in surgical techniques and operative strategies created the greatest amount of contention, along with clinical assessment and imaging modalities.

Conclusion:

High-level evidence studies for diagnosing and managing meniscus root tears were scarce. A consensus has yet to be reached regarding the role of concomitant osteotomy, comparison of repair techniques, the use of a centralization stitch, patient factors affecting outcomes, and long-term outcomes of nonoperative management.
Magnetohydrodynamic mixed convection of nanofluid flow in a split lid driven cavity using finite element method
Authors: Dubey Ankita , Vasu Buddakkagari , Gorla Rama Subba Reddy , Borbora Mustaque H , Chamkha Ali J
Published: November 2024

A computational study on the effect of magnetohydrodynamic mixed convection of nanofluid flow in a square split lid driven cavity with a block placed near the bottom wall is undertaken. Two different nanoparticles gold and alumina are considered for the study. The observations for the study are obtained by solving the non-dimensionalized governing equations by Finite Element Method with variational approach as accessible with the FreeFEM++ software. The results for different Prandtl numbers ( Pr), Richardson number ( Ri), volume fractions of nanoparticles [Formula: see text], Reynolds number (Re), and MHD parameters (M) are displayed through graphs and figures. It has been observed that the pressure distribution significantly increases with the increment in Reynolds number but both the nanoparticles behave differently. The magnetic field enhancement ( M = 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 0.9) decreases the velocity within the cavity. The convective heat transfer is faster in the case of Reynolds number ( Re) = 100 than in the case of Reynolds number ( Re) = 14 or 21. And also increasing the Richardson Number from 0.1 to 1.0, the average Nusselt number shows increment of ∼9.5% and with Ri = 1.0 to 10.0, an increment of ∼3% whereas decrement with higher Reynolds Number ( Re = 21, 100) for Gold and Allumina nanoparticles respectively. The present simulations have various applications for the study of natural phenomenon like climate control, meteorological and geophysical activities and industrial applications like cooling of electronics equipment, heat exchanger.
Can we trust that CBT-based batterer intervention programmes are effective?—Use of evidence for the treatment of IPV offenders in the prison and probation service
Authors: Jansson Peter M.
Published: November 2024

Despite systematic reviews calling for more research to determine which batterer intervention programs (BIPs) work, the Swedish Prison and Probation Service (SPPS) officially claims that their CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy)-based programs are successful. In order to find a plausible explanation for the discrepancy between what the service claims and what is reasonable to claim, a qualitative content analysis of the SPPSs’ use of evidence in the accreditation of BIPs and the treatment with these programs is conducted. The study first addresses the manifest content, which refers to the SPPS claims of scientific evidence that BIPs have a positive effect and the internal application of Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) for the accreditation of their programs. The results show that despite the SPPSs’ efforts to keep up to date with research and public claims that treatment programs reduce recidivism, there is no independent scientific evidence that the treatment methods used are effective. The interpretative analysis of the latent content indicates that the concept of evidence is used rhetorically to convince the public that the activities are conducted successfully, scientifically and cost-effectively. The state of knowledge is uncertain, and a more realistic approach is required as the public has a right to know that treatment of IPV offenders is often based on uncertainty.
On the role of variation in measures, the worth of underpowered studies, and the need for tolerance among researchers: Some more reflections on Leising et al. from a methodological, statistical, and social-psychological perspective
Authors: Zitzmann Steffen , Wagner Wolfgang , Lavelle-Hill Rosa , Jung Alexander J. , Jach Hayley , Loreth Lukas , Lindner Christoph , Schmidt Fabian T. C. , Edelsbrunner Peter A. , Schaefer Christoph D. , Deutschländer Robert , Schauber Stefan K. , Krammer Georg , Wolff Fabian , Hui Bronson , Fischer Christian , Bardach Lisa , Nagengast Benjamin , Hecht Martin
Published: November 2024

We point out potential drawbacks of some of Leising et al.’s (2022a) proposed ways how personality science can be improved. We argue that it is ill-advised to use only one measure for a concept. Also, we argue that researchers should not refrain from conducting a study when a high level of statistical power is precluded. Then, we go one step further and formulate additional ideas of how to improve research. Specifically, we argue that it is a good thing to use different methods rather than only one when attempting to generalize across these methods. Moreover, we argue for a more theory-driven strategy for specifying factor analytic models, and we emphasize that high-quality research is often interdisciplinary. Finally, we point to a particular risk associated with any formal reward system.
Putting the Bar to the Test: An Examination of the Predictive Validity of Bar Exam Outcomes on Lawyering Effectiveness
Authors: Scott Jason M. , Goggin Stephen N. , Trachok Rick , Kwon Jenny S. , Gordon Sara , Gould Dean , Hiigel Fletcher S. , Grinvald Leah Chan , Faigman David
Published: November 2024

How well does bar exam performance predict lawyering effectiveness? Is performance on some components of the bar exam more predictive? The current study, the first of its kind to measure the relationship between bar exam scores and a new lawyer’s effectiveness, evaluates these questions by combining three unique datasets—bar results from the State Bar of Nevada, a survey of recently admitted lawyers, and a survey of supervisors, peers, and judges who were asked to evaluate the effectiveness of recently-admitted lawyers. We find that performance on both the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE) and essay components of the Nevada Bar have little relationship with the assessed lawyering effectiveness of new lawyers, calling into question the usefulness of these tests.
Safety and efficacy of pegcetacoplan treatment for cold agglutinin disease and warm antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia
Authors: Roman Eloy , Fattizzo Bruno , Shum Merrill , Hanna Wahid , Lentz Steven R. , Araujo Sergio Schusterschitz S. , Al-Adhami Mohammed , Grossi Federico V. , Gertz Morie A.
Published: November 2024

Cold agglutinin disease (CAD) and warm antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) are rare autoimmune hemolytic anemias characterized by red blood cell destruction, largely attributable to complement activation resulting in intravascular and extravascular hemolysis. Pegcetacoplan is a subcutaneously administered C3-targeted therapy, which may be suitable for treating CAD and wAIHA. In this open-label phase 2 study, analyses were conducted in 2 cohorts, 1 for patients with CAD and the other for those with wAIHA. In each cohort, patients were randomly assigned to receive pegcetacoplan 270 mg/d or 360 mg/d for up to 48 weeks. Safety end points included the incidence and severity of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and adverse events of special interest (AESI). Efficacy end points included change from baseline in hemoglobin (Hb), lactate dehydrogenase, absolute reticulocyte count, haptoglobin, indirect bilirubin, and functional assessment of chronic illness therapy (FACIT)-fatigue scale. Thirteen of 13 (100%) and 10 of 11 (91%) patients with CAD and wAIHA, respectively, experienced at least 1 TEAE. Ten patients had at least 1 serious AE; none were considered related to pegcetacoplan. The only treatment-related AESIs were injection site reactions. Pegcetacoplan increased Hb levels, reduced hemolysis, and increased FACIT-fatigue scale scores in the first weeks; at week 48 the median (interquartile range) change from baseline Hb for the CAD and wAIHA total groups was 2.4 (0.90-3.00) and 1.7 g/dL (−1.40 to 2.90), respectively, and improvements in hemolysis and FACIT-fatigue scale scores were maintained. This study demonstrated that pegcetacoplan is generally well tolerated and suggests it can be effective for patients with CAD and wAIHA. This trial was registered at www.ClinicalTrials.gov as #NCT03226678.
Long-term outcomes of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Guilhot François , Hehlmann Rüdiger
Published: November 2024

Long-term outcomes with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) show that their impact on chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is sustained as shown by 13 studies with 5- to 14-year-follow-up, and numerous shorter-term studies of newly diagnosed chronic-phase CML. Twenty-five years of imatinib (IM) treatment confirm its beneficial effect on survival and possible cure of CML. Large, randomized, academic, treatment-optimization studies have confirmed and extended the pivotal International Randomized Study on Interferon and STI571. The 3 academic trials in Germany, France, and the United Kingdom did not show benefit of the IM-interferon (IFN) combination, despite the immunomodulatory properties of IFN. Second-generation (2G) TKIs induce responses faster than IM and recognize IM-resistance mutations but do not prolong survival compared with IM. Adverse drug-related reactions (ADRs) limit the general use of 2GTKIs despite frequent but mostly mild IM-ADRs. Molecular monitoring of treatment efficacy has been established serving as an example for other neoplasms. Comorbidities, transcript type, and the negative impact of high-risk additional chromosomal abnormalities were addressed. A new prognostic score (European Treatment and Outcome Study long-term survival score) accounts for the fact that the majority of patients with CML die of other causes. Non-CML determinants of survival have been identified. Large and long-term observational studies demonstrate that progress with CML management has also reached routine care in most but not all instances. Despite merits of 2GTKIs, IM remains the preferred treatment option for CML because of its efficacy and superior safety.
Investigating genotype by environment interaction for beef cattle fertility traits in commercial herds in northern Australia with multi-trait analysis
Authors: Copley James P. , Hayes Benjamin J. , Ross Elizabeth M. , Speight Shannon , Fordyce Geoffry , Wood Benjamin J. , Engle Bailey N.
Published: October 2024

Background

Genotype by environment interactions (GxE) affect a range of production traits in beef cattle. Quantifying the effect of GxE in commercial and multi-breed herds is challenging due to unknown genetic linkage between animals across environment levels. The primary aim of this study was to use multi-trait models to investigate GxE for three heifer fertility traits, corpus luteum (CL) presence, first pregnancy and second pregnancy, in a large tropical beef multibreed dataset (n = 21,037). Environmental levels were defined by two different descriptors, burden of heat load (temperature humidity index, THI) and nutritional availability (based on mean average daily gain for the herd, ADWG). To separate the effects of genetic linkage and real GxE across the environments, 1000 replicates of a simulated phenotype were generated by simulating QTL effects with no GxE onto real marker genotypes from the population, to determine the genetic correlations that could be expected across environments due to the existing genetic linkage only. Correlations from the real phenotypes were then compared to the empirical distribution under the null hypothesis from the simulated data. By adopting this approach, this study attempted to establish if low genetic correlations between environmental levels were due to GxE or insufficient genetic linkage between animals in each environmental level.

Results

The correlations (being less than <0.8) for the real phenotypes were indicative of GxE for CL presence between ADWG environmental levels and in pregnancy traits. However, none of the correlations for CL presence or first pregnancy between ADWG levels were below the 5th percentile value for the empirical distribution under the null hypothesis from the simulated data. Only one statistically significant (P < 0.05) indication of GxE for first pregnancy was found between THI environmental levels, where rg = 0.28 and 5th percentile value = 0.29, and this result was marginal.

Conclusions

Only one case of statistically significant GxE for fertility traits was detected for first pregnancy between THI environmental levels 2 and 3. Other initial indications of GxE that were observed from the real phenotypes did not prove significant when compared to an empirical null distribution from simulated phenotypes. The lack of compelling evidence of GxE indicates that direct selection for fertility traits can be made accurately, using a single evaluation, regardless of environment.
Sex differences in the impact of lower respiratory tract infections on older adults’ health trajectories: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Abbadi Ahmad , Beridze Giorgi , Tsoumani Eleana , Brandtmüller Agnes , Hendel Merle K , Salomonsson Stina , Calderón-Larrañaga Amaia , Vetrano Davide L.
Published: November 2024

Background

Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are a major global health concern, particularly among older adults, who have an increased risk of poorer health outcomes that persist beyond the acute infectious episode. We aimed to investigate the mid-term (up to 7 years) and long-term (up to 12 years) effects of LRTIs on the objective health status trajectories of older adults, while also considering potential sex differences.

Methods

Cohort data of adults aged ≥ 60 years from the Swedish National study of Aging and Care in Kungsholmen (SNAC-K) collected between 2001 and 2016 was analyzed. Information on LRTIs was obtained from the Swedish National Patient Register, and objective health status was assessed using the Health Assessment Tool (HAT) which incorporates indicators of mild and severe disability, cognitive and physical functioning, and multimorbidity. The LRTI-exposed and -unexposed participants were matched using propensity score matching based on an expansive list of potential confounders. Mixed linear models were used to analyze the association between LRTIs and changes in HAT scores.

Results

The study included 2796 participants, 567 of whom were diagnosed with a LRTI. LRTIs were independently associated with an excess annual decline of 0.060 (95% CI: -0.107, -0.013) in the HAT score over a 7-year period. The associations were stronger among males, who experienced an excess annual decline of 0.108 (95% CI: -0.177, -0.039) in up to 7-years follow-up, and 0.097 (95% CI: -0.173, -0.021) in up to 12-years follow-up. The associations were not statistically significant among females in either follow-up period.

Conclusion

LRTIs, even years after the acute infectious period, seem to have a prolonged negative effect on the health of older adults, particularly among males. Preventative public health measures aimed at decreasing LRTI cases among older adults could help in preserving good health and functioning in old age.
Socio-cultural and economic determinants of Latrine ownership and utilisation: a community-based survey in Bole district of Ghana
Authors: Nanyim Jonathan K. , Mutaru Abdul-Manaf , Gbeti Collins , Issahaku Abdul Rahaman , Abubakari Abdulai , Wumbei Abukari
Published: October 2024

Latrine ownership and utilization is an integral part of the Community-Led Total Sanitation concept. This study assessed ownership and utilization of latrines in selected Open Defecation and Open Defecation-Free communities within the Bole district. A cross-sectional survey design and quantitative approach were employed in this study. Simple random sampling was used to select 166 households from 15 Open Defecation and 5 Open Defecation-Free communities. Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and binary logistic regression. The proportion of latrine ownership and utilization were 22.3% and 6.6% respectively. Educational qualification, tertiary education (aOR: 6.1; 95% CI: 1.05–35.56), household subjective norms (OR: 0.19; 95% CI: 0.04–1.01), and awareness of Community-Led Total Sanitation (aOR: 13.3; 95% CI: 2.95–60.24) were determinants of latrine ownership and or utilisation. In conclusion, latrine ownership and use were generally low with education, awareness of community-led total sanitation, residential status, and household subjective norms as factors associated with ownership and or utilization. Education or sensitization should target cultural norms impeding latrine construction and usage. Again, implementable by-laws/community regulations must be implemented to propel latrine ownership and utilization.
A scoping review, novel taxonomy and catalogue of implementation frameworks for clinical decision support systems
Authors: Wohlgemut Jared M. , Pisirir Erhan , Stoner Rebecca S. , Perkins Zane B. , Marsh William , Tai Nigel R.M. , Kyrimi Evangelia
Published: November 2024

Background

The primary aim of this scoping review was to synthesise key domains and sub-domains described in existing clinical decision support systems (CDSS) implementation frameworks into a novel taxonomy and demonstrate most-studied and least-studied areas. Secondary objectives were to evaluate the frequency and manner of use of each framework, and catalogue frameworks by implementation stage.

Methods

A scoping review of Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsychInfo and Embase was conducted on 12/01/2022, limited to English language, including 2000–2021. Each framework was categorised as addressing one or multiple stages of implementation: design and development, evaluation, acceptance and integration, and adoption and maintenance. Key parts of each framework were grouped into domains and sub-domains.

Results

Of 3550 titles identified, 58 papers were included. The most-studied implementation stage was acceptance and integration, while the least-studied was design and development. The three main framework uses were: for evaluating adoption, for understanding attitudes toward implementation, and for framework validation. The most frequently used framework was the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

Conclusions

Many frameworks have been published to overcome barriers to CDSS implementation and offer guidance towards successful adoption. However, for co-developers, choosing relevant frameworks may be a challenge. A taxonomy of domains addressed by CDSS implementation frameworks is provided, as well as a description of their use, and a catalogue of frameworks listed by the implementation stages they address. Future work should ensure best practices for CDSS design are adequately described, and existing frameworks are well-validated. An emphasis on collaboration between clinician and non-clinician affected parties may help advance the field.