bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronisch spontane Urtikaria: Serologische Autoimmunmarker können Hinweise auf das Therapieansprechen geben
Authors: Adler Sabine
Published: January 2022

In dieser retrospektiven multizentrischen Studie wurden Daten von 1199 Patienten mit chronischer spontaner Urtikaria (CSU) analysiert, um die Assoziation zu autoimmunen Komorbiditäten und das therapeutische Ansprechen auf Omalizumab zu untersuchen. Die Diagnose Typ IIb autoimmune CSU (aiCSU) wurde gestellt, wenn folgende 3 Tests positiv ausfielen: autologer Serum-Haut-Test, Basophilen-Histamin-Freisetzungs- und/oder Basophilenaktivierungstest und IgG-Autoantikörpertest gegen spezifische IgE-Rezeptoren. 28% der CSU-Patienten hatten mindestens eine Autoimmunerkrankung, 2% der Patienten zwei oder mehr. Außerdem zeigte sich, dass Patienten, bei denen Marker für Autoimmunerkrankungen, antinukleäre Antikörper und/oder IgG für Anti-TPO-Antikörper vorlagen, gehäuft nicht auf die Therapie mit Omalizumab ansprachen.
Detethering of MRI-Demonstrated Tethered Cord Syndrome
Authors: Howells Madeleine , Hamby Tyler , Honeycutt John , Donahue David J.
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Recognition of tethered cord syndrome (TCS) in children is important because as the child grows, the spinal cord is stretched, leading to ischemia and subsequent neurological deficits, including bowel or bladder dysfunction, back and leg pain, or lower extremity weakness. Imaging findings raising concerns for tethering include presence of a fatty and/or thickened filum or a conus medullaris located caudal to L2. Objectives: The objective of this study was to describe the symptomatic presentation of TCS in our institution, detect demographic and diagnostic predictors of signs and symptoms, assess changes in symptoms over time, and examine whether demographic and diagnostic variables affect changes in symptoms over time. Methods: Using a retrospective chart review from patients who underwent detethering at our institution between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2019, we report on the signs and symptoms of patients undergoing detethering surgery at presentation and examine possible demographic and diagnostic predictors of those symptoms and changes in symptoms over time. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine whether symptoms at presentation were related to demographic and diagnostic predictors and to assess a change in symptoms over time. Results: A total of 273 patients underwent detethering and were analyzed. Of these, 144 (53%) were <5 years of age, 151 (55%) were male, 233 (85%) had a fatty filum, 179 (66%) had a thickened filum, and 106 (39%) had a low-lying conus. Patients <5 years of age were less likely to have urological, gastrointestinal, and neurological or orthopedic symptoms; patients with thickened fila (i.e., greater than 2 mm in diameter regardless of fat-infiltration) were less likely to have urological symptoms; and patients with low-lying coni were less likely to have gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients exhibiting symptoms at presentation had reduced rates of symptoms at the follow-up, but a reduction in rates of symptoms over time was unrelated to demographic or diagnostic variables. Surprisingly, 123 (45%) patients presented with intractable constipation. Conclusion: In the population studied, several presenting symptoms, particularly constipation, were commonly reported. Children <5 years old were less likely to manifest clinically evident neurological/orthopedic, urological, and gastrointestinal symptoms than the older cohorts. Patients were less likely to report symptoms at both their first and second postoperative visit compared to presentation.
Triglyceride Glucose Index Was Associated With the Risk of Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Liu Yihai , Chang Lei , Wu Mingyue , Xu Biao , Kang Lina
Published: January 2022

This study aims to investigate the relationship between the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index and peripheral artery disease (PAD). A total of 3125 participants with completed TyG and ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) records were enrolled from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cycle of 1999–2004. The TyG index was calculated as ln [triglycerides (mg/dL) × glucose (mg/dL)/2], and the presence of PAD was defined as ABPI ≤.9. The participants were 59.9 ± 12.9 years old and 51.5% (1608) were male. The prevalence of PAD was 7.2% (225). Compared with the reference lowest quartile of TyG index, the highest quartile was associated with 1.27-fold increased (odds ratio [OR] 2.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.53-3.41; P < .001) risk of PAD. After adjusting for sociodemographic, lifestyles, and cardiometabolic factors, the multivariate-adjusted OR and 95% CI were 1.74 (1.02–3.01; P = .044) in participants within the highest quartile. Subgroup analysis showed that the association between TyG index and the risk of PAD was still consistent across subgroups. In conclusion, higher TyG index was significantly associated with the higher risk of PAD, which could be a marker of PAD.
Developing Situated Measures of Science Instruction Through an Innovative Electronic Portfolio App for Mobile Devices: Reliability, Validity, and Feasibility
Authors: Martínez José Felipe , Kloser Matt , Srinivasan Jayashri , Stecher Brian , Edelman Amanda
Published: January 2022

Adoption of new instructional standards in science demands high-quality information about classroom practice. Teacher portfolios can be used to assess instructional practice and support teacher self-reflection anchored in authentic evidence from classrooms. This study investigated a new type of electronic portfolio tool that allows efficient capture of classroom artifacts in multimedia formats using mobile devices. We assess the psychometric properties of measures of quality instruction in middle school science classrooms derived from the contents of portfolios collected using this novel tool—with instruction operationalized through dimensions aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards. Results reflect low rater error and adequate reliability for several dimensions, a dominant underlying factor, and significant relations to some relevant concurrent indicators. Although no relation was found to student standardized test scores or course grades, portfolio ratings did relate to student self-efficacy perceptions and enjoyment of science. We examine factors influencing measurement error, and consider the broader implications of the results for assessing the validity of portfolio score interpretations, and the feasibility and potential value of this type of tool for summative and formative uses, in the context of large-scale instructional improvement efforts.
Dynamic risk assessment of slope stability of homogeneous earth-rock dam under action of multiple hazards
Authors: Su Zhengyang , Zhang Kai , Liu Chengdong
Published: January 2022

During actual service of the reservoir dam, there always appears a combination of water level fluctuations, rainfalls, and other hazard factors. During these times, the safety state of the dam is a dynamic process, and the dynamic risk assessment of dam slope stability which considers the time scale is of great importance. Therefore, in this study, the dynamical stability of the earth-rock dam under the combined action of multiple hazards is studied by using the Monte Carlo method, considering the spatial variability of the soil of dam and the coupling effect of the seepage field and the stress field. The failure probability and reliability index of dam under each working condition are calculated to determine the most dangerous working condition during the disaster-causing process. For the upstream slope, the most dangerous condition appears at the moment when the water level drops at a rate of 2 m/d with a 40 mm/d rainfall intensity, while the most dangerous condition of the downstream slope is that when the water level rises at a rate of 2 m/d with a 40 mm/d rainfall intensity. The influence of various disaster factors on the stability of dam is revealed and corresponding engineering early warning measures are proposed. This study realizes the dynamic risk assessment of dam slope stability under multiple hazards, avoids the limitation of evaluating the dam slope stability with a single safety factor, and provides a reference for risk analysis and emergency management of reservoir dams under the action of multiple hazards.
Relevant, Irrelevant, or Ambiguous? Toward a New Interpretation of QCA’s Solution Types
Authors: Haesebrouck Tim
Published: January 2022

The field of qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) is witnessing a heated debate on which one of the QCA’s main solution types should be at the center of substantive interpretation. This article argues that the different QCA solutions have complementary strengths. Therefore, researchers should interpret the three solution types in an integrated way, in order to get as much information as possible on the causal structure behind the phenomenon under investigation. The parsimonious solution is capable of identifying causally relevant conditions, the conservative solution of identifying contextually irrelevant conditions. In addition to conditions for which the data provide evidence that they are causally relevant or contextually irrelevant, there will be conditions for which the data neither suggest that they are relevant nor contextually irrelevant. In line with the procedure for crafting the intermediate solution, it is possible to make clear for which of these ambiguous conditions it is not plausible that they are relevant in the context of the research.
Delphi Method Consensus on Priority Global Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Conditions and Procedures
Authors: Nuss Sarah , Patterson Rolvix H. , Cahill Gabrielle L. , Alkire Blake , Jue Xu Mary , Salano Valerie , Wiedermann Josh , Okerosi Samuel
Published: January 2022

Objective

The objective of this study was to develop an international expert consensus on priority otolaryngology–head and neck surgery conditions and procedures globally for which national health systems should be capable of caring.

Study Design

The Delphi method was employed via a multiround online survey administered to attending otolaryngologists in an international research collaborative of >180 otolaryngologists in >40 countries.

Setting

International online survey.

Methods

In round 1, participants listed the top 15 otolaryngologic conditions and top 15 otolaryngology procedures for their World Bank regions. In round 2, participants ranked round 1 responses in order of global importance on a 5‐point Likert scale. In round 3, participants reranked conditions and procedures that did not achieve consensus, defined as 50% of the round 2 Likert responses being ranked as “important” or “very important.” Descriptive statistics were calculated for each round.

Results

The survey was distributed to 53 experts globally, with a response rate of 38% (n = 20). Fifty percent (n = 10) of participants were from low‐ and middle‐income countries, with at least 1 participant from each World Bank region. Ten consensus surgical procedures and 10 consensus conditions were identified.

Conclusion

This study identified a list of priority otolaryngology–head and neck surgery conditions and surgical procedures for which all national health systems around the world should be capable of managing. Acute and infectious conditions with preventative and emergent procedures were highlighted. These findings can direct future research and guide international collaborations.
Maternal exposure to silicon dioxide nanoparticles reduces hippocampal neurogenesis and synaptogenesis and induces neurodegeneration in rat offspring hippocampus
Authors: Mahdipour Ramin , Ebrahimi Vahid , Hosseini Mahmoud , Soukhtanloo Mohammad , Rastegar-moghaddam Seyed HamidReza , Malvandi Amir Mohammad , Mohammadipour Abbas
Published: January 2022

Silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2-NPs) are among the most widely used nanoparticles because of their chemical-physical properties. Since most brain maturation occurs in the neonatal period in humans and many mammals, it is important to understand how NPs may affect this process. This study tested the hypothesis that SiO2-NPs from treated dams could affect the hippocampus of neonatal rats during lactation. Twenty-four pregnant rats, after delivery, were divided into three groups of control, SiO2-NPs (25 mg/kg) and SiO2-NPs (100 mg/kg). The rats were treated from 2nd to 21st days post-delivery by gavage and the effects of these NPs were evaluated in the offspring’s hippocampi to reveal the effects of maternal exposure to SiO2-NPs during lactation on the offspring’s hippocampi. The offspring in the SiO2-NPs groups had higher malondialdehyde concentration and lower antioxidant activity in the hippocampi than the non-treated control group. The mean number of doublecortin positive (DCX+) cells and synaptophysin expression in the hippocampi of the SiO2-NPs groups were significantly lower than the control group, whereas the mean number of dark neurons was significantly higher. Also, animals in the SiO2-NPs groups had a weak cognitive performance in adulthood. In conclusion, maternal exposure to SiO2-NPs via breastfeeding could affect offspring’s hippocampal neurogenesis and synaptogenesis, leading to impaired cognitive performance.
Comparative study of titanium alloys machinability used for medical applications
Authors: Festas A. J. , Carvalho S. , Horovistiz A. , Ramos A. , Davim J. P.
Published: January 2022

CNC machining manufacturing is critical to the development of biomedical industries, especially orthopaedic implants. Understanding a material's machinability under different cutting conditions is essential for component design as well as for optimizing the machining process. Despite their widespread use in the biomedical industry, α + β-type titanium (Ti) alloys, such as Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-7Nb, are being replaced by β or near β-type Ti alloys like Ti-13Nb-13Zr Ti alloy due to issues associated with Vanadium and Aluminium toxicity and lower modulus of elasticity. By simulating the machining of a functional cone of the hip prosthesis femoral component, this work aims to investigate some aspects of the machinability of titanium alloys: Ti-6Al-4V, Ti-6Al-7Nb, and Ti-13Nb-alloy 13Zr. Cutting forces values were registered during the tests. Using correlative microscopy, machined surfaces were examined by measuring roughness and topographic examination. According to the results obtained, the new titanium alloy Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy presents lower cutting forces and a worse surface finish for a lower feed rate. However, when the feed rate was increased to double the initial value, this alloy had the smallest increase in Ra, compared with the other alloys under test The effect of federate is highly significant in cutting forces and surface finish, with increases in cutting forces of 35%, 45% and 66% on cutting forces for Ti-13Nb-13Zr, Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-7Nb, respectively.
Numerical studies on modeling the near- and far-field wake vortex of a quadrotor in forward flight
Authors: Nathanael Joshua C , Wang Chung-Hung John , Low Kin Huat
Published: January 2022

The operation of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) is expected to keep increasing in the future with its rapid advancement and ever-expanding applications. One of the safety measures that need to be put into place for safe UAS operations is separation requirements. This article presents the results from flow simulations of quadrotor propellers using the Overset method in ANSYS Fluent 19.2 and the Virtual Blade Model (VBM) method in OpenFOAM as part of ongoing work to establish a wake vortex–based safe separation distance for UAS operations. The near-field flow simulation using the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes turbulence model was validated with mesh convergence and turbulence model studies and verified with simulation and experimental data in the literature to ensure that the propeller simulation methods could generate a realistic near-field flow of multi-rotor UAS in forward flight. The far-field flow simulation using the Large Eddy Simulation turbulence model was validated with a mesh convergence study by calculating and comparing the circulation strength of the vortices in the far-field flow of each mesh setup but not verified due to a lack of existing experimental data.
Graphene/sol–gel modified polyurethane coating for wind turbine blade leading edge protection: Properties and performance
Authors: Dashtkar Arash , Johansen Nicolai Frost-Jensen , Mishnaevsky Leon , Williams Neil A , Hasan Shadi W , Wadi Vijay S , Silvello Alessio , Hadavinia Homayoun
Published: January 2022

The development of two novel elastomeric erosion resistant coatings for the protection of wind turbine blades is presented. The coatings are prepared by modifying polyurethane (PU) with (i) hydroxyl functionalised graphene nanoparticles (f-GNP) and (ii) f-GNP and a hydrophobic silica-based sol–gel (SG). Tensile, monotonic and cyclic compression and tearing tests have been conducted on the neat PU and the two newly developed elastomeric PU nanocomposites (PU + GNP and PU + GNP + SG) to allow their properties to be compared. The test results showed that the mechanical properties of PU and the modified PUs have strong dependency on temperature, strain rate and nanoparticles loading and addition of GNP and SG to PU improved the mechanical properties. Compared to PU, Young’s modulus and modulus of toughness of PU + GNP + SG increased 95% and 124%, respectively. The PU + GNP nanocomposite displayed the highest tearing strength and the PU + GNP + SG nanocomposite showed the highest elongation at break. An investigation of the microstructures of the modified PUs by FTIR, field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) are discussed. Hydrophobicity of the PU and developed PU nanocomposites are reported by measuring their water droplet contact angles and their free surface energies.
Book review: Saurabh Kirpal (Ed.), Sex and the Supreme Court: How the Law is Upholding the Dignity of the Indian Citizen
Authors: Sen Prashanto Chandra
Published: January 2022

Saurabh Kirpal (Ed.), Sex and the Supreme Court: How the Law is Upholding the Dignity of the Indian Citizen. Hachette India, 2020, 346 pages, ₹533 (Paperback). ISBN: 9789389253009.
Book review: L. Somi Roy, Maharaj Kumari Binodini, The Princess and the Political Agent
Authors: Thoudam Natasa
Published: January 2022

L. Somi Roy, Maharaj Kumari Binodini, The Princess and the Political Agent (translated from the Manipuri [Meiteilon]). Penguin Random House, 2020, e-book: Kindle edition, 255 pages, ₹188.33. e-ISBN: 9789353058234.
Book review: S. Irudaya Rajan and N. Neetha (Eds.), Migration, Gender and Care Economy
Authors: Roy Satyaki
Published: January 2022

S. Irudaya Rajan and N. Neetha (Eds.), Migration, Gender and Care Economy. Routledge (South Asia Edition), 2019, 206 pages, ₹995 (Hardback). ISBN: 9780367247331.
Book review: Gaby Zipfel et al. (Eds.), In Plain Sight: Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict
Authors: Manchanda Rita
Published: January 2022

Gaby Zipfel et al. (Eds.), In Plain Sight: Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict. Zubaan Academic, 2019, 472 pages, ₹850/$35 (Hardback). ISBN: 97893 85932816.
Effects of the Quality of Life on the Adaptation of People With An Intestinal Stoma
Authors: Diniz Iraktania Vitorino , Pereira da Silva Isabelle , Silva Renan Alves , Garcia Lira Neto José Claudio , do Nascimento João Agnaldo , Costa Isabelle Katherinne Fernandes , Mendonça Ana Elza Oliveira de , Oliveira Simone Helena dos Santos , Soares Maria Julia Guimaraes Oliveira
Published: January 2022

The study aimed to examine the effects of the quality of life on the adaptation of people with an intestinal stoma. Cross-sectional study with 152 people with an ostomy. Three instruments were used: the sociodemographic and clinical characterization, Scale for the Level of Adaptation of Ostomy Patients, and City of Hope Quality of Life - Ostomy Questionnaire. The multiple linear regression model, multivariate technique, and cluster were used. The determination coefficient showed that 94.1% of the variability of the Adaptation scores is explained by the dimensions of quality of life. It can be seen that the highest standardized coefficients are the psychological dimension (β = .386) and the social dimension (β = .365), in which they produce the greatest changes in the average adaptation scores. The psychological and social well-being dimensions are the ones that most contribute to raising the levels of adaptation.
Short Breastfeeding Duration is Associated With Premature Onset of Female Breast Cancer
Authors: Fernández-Aparicio Ángel , Schmidt-RioValle Jacqueline , García Pedro A. , González-Jiménez Emilio
Published: January 2022

Currently, there is controversy concerning potential factors that contribute to the development of breast cancer. Our study analyzed the possible association between weight status, cigarette consumption, lactation period, serum estrogen levels, family history of breast cancer, and age at breast cancer diagnosis. We conducted a retrospective study at a University Hospital in Granada (Spain) by consulting the medical records of 524 women aged 19 to 91 years, all of them diagnosed and treated for breast cancer from 2011 to 2019. Our findings indicated that in non-morbidly obese females who were also non-smokers, a maternal lactation period of more than 3 months ( p = .013) and the absence of family antecedents of cancer ( p = .025) were statistically significant factors that led to a more advanced age at breast cancer diagnosis. Thus, maternal lactation seems to have a potential protective effect on breast cancer.
CT Scan Assessment and Functional Outcome of Periprosthetic Bone Grafting After Total Ankle Arthroplasty at Medium-term Follow-up
Authors: Naude Jaco J. , Saragas Nikiforos P. , Ferrao Paulo N. F.
Published: January 2022

Background

Periprosthetic cysts can occur in up to 95% of total ankle arthroplasties (TAA) and have been correlated with implant failure. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical and radiologic outcomes, using computed tomographic (CT) scan, after periprosthetic cyst bone grafting and assess for the minimum cyst size that should be grafted.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all TAA procedures performed between 2007 and 2014 (n=93). A CT scan was done to assess cyst size and operative planning. Eight patients with 9 periprosthetic cysts larger than 1.75 cm3 were grafted and specimens sent for histology. The mean time to bone grafting was 7.3 (3.8-9.5) years. Functional outcome was assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society ankle score, visual analog scale, and Self-reported Foot and Ankle Score. A CT scan was performed at follow-up to assess graft incorporation and cyst size progression. The mean time to CT scan post grafting was 3.0 (0.7-4.7) years.

Results

There was no implant malalignment identified and no differences in the pre- and postoperative functional scores. Preoperatively cysts had a mean volume of 8.16 (2.04-14.03) cm3. The mean percentage incorporation was 89% (69%-100%). Eight of the grafted cysts were considered successful on CT, with the ninth having 69% incorporation. Five cysts were not grafted, as they were below 1.75 cm3, and remained the same size or had minimal enlargement.

Conclusion

The satisfactory results in this small cohort suggests that prophylactic bone grafting may extend implant survival. We recommend that periprosthetic cysts greater than 1.75 cm3 be prophylactically bone grafted, and that cysts smaller than 1.75 cm3 be monitored for progression in size.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, Case Series.
Computed Tomography-Guided Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation in Older Adults With Early-Stage Peripheral Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lu Yanda , Lu Caiwei , Xu Danni , Huang Fen , He Zhihui , Lei Junhua , Sun Huamao , Zeng Jiangzheng
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of computed tomography(CT)-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in medically inoperable older adults with clinical stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of medically inoperable older adults (≥70 years) with clinical stage I NSCLC who underwent percutaneous multi-tined electrode RFA at our institution between January 2014 and December 2018. We analyzed the patients’ characteristics, therapy response, survival, as well as the procedure-related complications.

Results

Eighteen patients (10 men and 8 women) with a mean age of 75.9 (71−85) years were treated in during the study period. The median tumor size was 25 mm (range, 19−43 mm); 10 and 8 cases involved stage T1 and T2a disease, respectively. The median follow-up duration was 25 (11–45) months. RFA was technically successful for all 18 lesions, with no treatment-related mortality. The disease control rate was 83.3% (15/18 lesions). There were 6 cases of pneumothorax: one symptomatic case requiring thoracic drainage, and five requiring no treatment. Minor complications, including pulmonary infection, chest pain, fever, and cough, were treated within 4 days (range, 1−4 days). The progression-free survival rates were 83.3%, 64.9%, and 51.9% 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. The corresponding overall survival rates were 92.2%, 81.5%, and 54.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

CT-guided percutaneous RFA is safe and effective in medically inoperable patients with stage I NSCLC and could be an alternative therapeutic strategy, particularly in older adults with early-stage peripheral lung cancer.
Recent Insights on Glutamatergic Dysfunction in Alzheimer’s Disease and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Pinky Priyanka D. , Pfitzer Jeremiah C. , Senfeld Jared , Hong Hao , Bhattacharya Subhrajit , Suppiramaniam Vishnu , Qureshi Irfan , Reed Miranda N.
Published: January 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) poses a critical public health challenge, and there is an urgent need for novel treatment options. Glutamate, the principal excitatory neurotransmitter in the human brain, plays a critical role in mediating cognitive and behavioral functions; and clinical symptoms in AD patients are highly correlated with the loss of glutamatergic synapses. In this review, we highlight how dysregulated glutamatergic mechanisms can underpin cognitive and behavioral impairments and contribute to the progression of AD via complex interactions with neuronal and neural network hyperactivity, Aβ, tau, glial dysfunction, and other disease-associated factors. We focus on the tripartite synapse, where glutamatergic neurotransmission occurs, and evidence elucidating how the tripartite synapse can be pathologically altered in AD. We also discuss promising therapeutic approaches that have the potential to rescue these deficits. These emerging data support the development of novel glutamatergic drug candidates as compelling approaches for treating AD.
Gene Drives in the U.K., U.S., and Australian Press (2015–2019): How a New Focus on Responsibility Is Shaping Science Communication
Authors: Stelmach Aleksandra , Nerlich Brigitte , Hartley Sarah
Published: January 2022

Gene drive is a controversial biotechnology for pest control. Despite a commitment from gene drive researchers to responsibility and the key role of the media in debates about science and technology, little research has been conducted on media reporting of gene drive. We employ metaphor and discourse analysis to explore how responsibility is reflected in the coverage of this technology in the U.S., U.K., and Australian press. The findings reveal a rhetorical strategy of trust-building by evoking the moral attributes of gene drive researchers. We discuss the implications of these findings for the communication of new technologies.
Skin toxicity after Filgrastim treatment for an Ewing's sarcoma patient
Authors: Nefzi Issad , Yahyaoui Yosra , Letaief Feriel , Ghammem Nour , Gabsi Azza , Ayadi Mouna , Mezlini Amel
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Filgrastim is a granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GSCF) used in some chemotherapy regimen to prevent febrile neutropenia. Most common reaction of filgrastim are aches and pain including headaches, nausea and skin rash.

Case report

We report the case of a patient who developed unusual, non-commonly reported adverse toxidermy to filgrastim. At first the eruption was limited to the lower members and genetics organs. Then it slowly spread across the whole body presenting as a polymorphic exanthematous-pustulosis lesions.

Management & Outcome

A cutaneous biopsy was done, identifying a toxidermy modified by systemic treatment. A pharmacological study linked the role of filgrastim to these lesions. After switching from filgrastim to lénograstim, his lesions are completely gone and haven't flared up again. Thus, clearly imputing the use of filgrastim.

Discussion

The cutaneous reaction that has reported with use of GSCF are sweet syndrome, erythema nodosum, pyoderma nodosum and pyoderma gangrenosum. As far as we know, no acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis due to GSCF has been reported.
Step It Up: Increasing Physical Activity for Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability Using Supported Self-Management and Fitbit Technology
Authors: Savage Melissa N. , Tomaszewski Brianne T. , Hume Kara A.
Published: January 2022

Adults with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability often do not engage in healthy levels of physical activity despite its many benefits. We conducted a randomized control trial to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of the Step It Up program, which used supported self-management strategies, on daily step counts, health measures, and perceived quality of life for adults with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability. Forty participants, ages 18 to 57, were randomly assigned to a control or intervention group. Males accounted for 70.6% of participant gender. Both groups received Fitbits and Fitbit training, and they participated in pre- and post-assessments. The intervention group participated in the Step It Up program. Participants in the intervention group had significantly higher step counts and lost more weight. Feasibility and acceptability were also high. This study provides valuable data on using a supported self-managed exercise program as well as insight into its feasibility in home settings.
Assessment of intravitreal anti-VEGF drugs and dexamethasone for retinal diseases in real world setting: A multi-centre prospective study from Southern Italy
Authors: Scondotto Giulia , Sultana Janet , Vadalà Maria , Avitabile Teresio , Cillino Salvatore , Foti Saveria Serena , Labbate Luca , Longo Antonio , Mirabelli Eliana , Puzo Maria Rosalia , Rapisarda Carlo , Ibanez Toro Patricia , Trombetta Costantino J. , Trifirò Gianluca , Virgili Gianni ,   for ITACA (Intravitreal Therapy Administrative and Clinical Accrue) Network
Published: January 2022

Describe drug utilisation and clinical outcomes of intravitreal anti-VEGF drug and dexamethasone use in the real-world setting in Southern Italy using data from multi-centre study of retinal disease. Clinical data of retinal disease patients treated with anti-VEGF drugs and dexamethasone implant in 6 out-patient ophthalmology centres from Southern Italy were collected by means of an electronic case report form. Patients receiving at least one intravitreal injection/implant of the study drugs were followed for up to two years and described in terms of demographics and clinical characteristics. Drug utilisation patterns were described. A sign-rank test was used to compare clinical data on visual acuity and other ophthalmic parameters from baseline at different follow-up times for each indication. Data from 1327 patients was collected. Most patients were diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (660, 49.7%), followed by diabetic macular oedema (423, 31.9%), retinal vein occlusion (164, 12.3%), and myopic choroidal neovascularization (80, 6.0%). Patients were followed for a median of 10.3 months (interquartile range: 3.6 – 24.7 months). Mean patient age was 69.7 (±10.9) years and 54.2% were males. Ranibizumab (55.4%) and aflibercept (27.5%) were the most commonly used drugs. Baseline visual acuity significantly improved by about 0.05 to 0.1 logMAR at all follow-up times for AMD and RVO but less consistently for the other diseases. Intravitreal ranibizumab use accounted for half of all treatment for retinal diseases in a Southern Italian out-patient setting. Patients treated with anti-VEGF drugs for AMD and RVO in Southern Italy experienced significant improvement in VA.
Differences in antibiotic prescribing rates for telemedicine encounters for acute respiratory infections
Authors: Li Kathleen Y , Ngai Ka Ming , Genes Nicholas
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Health systems are increasingly implementing direct-to-consumer telemedicine for unscheduled acute care, however quality of care may be variable. Acute respiratory infection antibiotic prescribing rates in telemedicine visits performed by emergency physicians affiliated with medical centers has not been compared to care by unaffiliated, vendor-supplied physicians (a heterogeneous group). We hypothesized that, in virtual visits for acute respiratory infection, affiliated physicians would prescribe antibiotics at a lower rate than unaffiliated physicians.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of on-demand telemedicine visits available to health system employees and dependents at a large urban academic health system from March 2018 to July 2019. We performed multivariable logistic regression to determine the effect of physician affiliation on antibiotic prescribing patterns for acute respiratory infection, adjusting for patient age, visit weekday, and overnight visits.

Results

Of 257 telemedicine encounters related to acute respiratory infection, affiliated physicians prescribed antibiotics in 18% of visits, compared to 37% of visits by vendor physicians. In multivariable analysis, patients seen by a vendor physician for acute respiratory infection had 2.3 higher odds (95%CI 1.1–4.5, p < 0.01) of being prescribed antibiotics, an average marginal effect of 15% (95%CI 2–29%).

Discussion

In this study of virtual visits for unscheduled acute care in a single health system, vendor-supplied physicians were predicted to prescribe an antibiotic in 15% more acute respiratory infection visits compared to system-employed emergency physicians (35% vs 19%). Physician affiliation and familiarity with a health system, in addition to other factors, may be important in guideline adherence and antibiotic stewardship in direct-to-consumer telemedicine encounters.
Migrant children in a Chilean school: Habitus, discourses and otherness
Authors: Cortés Saavedra Andrea
Published: January 2022

Drawing on data from ethnographic fieldwork in a diverse school located in the north of Chile, this article explores the ways of narrating and producing otherness, through the analysis of school staff discourses. The article identifies and describes how the discourses on migrant children are produced in a school context, and the sources and references used by teachers. Utilising a focused ethnographic method and based on a critical realist and Bourdieusian approach, this article argues that there are surrounding discourses and pre-existing sets of social relations (state–school relations, socio-spatial relations, intergenerational relations), which are reflexively integrated into the habitus of teachers and the institutional habitus of the school, in order to understand the conviviality with migrant children and to produce social differences.
Underutilization of Drug-Eluting Stents in Infrapopliteal Intervention for Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia
Authors: Zuzek Zachary , Arora Shilpkumar , Helmy Irfan , Jani Chinmay , Jaswaney Rahul , Patel Kirtenkumar , Patel Harsh P. , Patel Mohini , Osman Mohammed Najeeb , Li Jun , Shishehbor Mehdi H.
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

Multiple randomized clinical trials have shown superiority of drug-eluting stents (DES) over bare-metal stents (BMS) for infrapopliteal disease. However, real-world data on DES utilization and outcomes in infrapopliteal chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) patients are unknown.

Materials and Methods:

We utilized the Nationwide Readmission Database (NRD) from 2016 to 2017 to extract patients undergoing infrapopliteal intervention with stents (BMS and DES) for CLTI using appropriate ICD-10 codes. Multilevel logistic regression with hospital ID as random effect was used to assess DES utilization. Primary outcome was the composite of target limb major amputation (TLmajA) and target limb revascularization (TLR). Multivariate Cox-proportional hazard regression was used to adjust for confounders.

Results:

Our study included a total of 1817 patients. Of these patients, 1056 patients (58.1%) received DES; DES utilization was stable (relative change: +2.5%, p-trend: 0.867) between 2016 and 2017 and was higher in teaching hospitals (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.03–1.61, p=0.029] and medium (aOR = 3.13, 95% CI = 2.17–4.55, p≤0.001) and large (aOR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.14–2.17, p=0.005) bed–sized hospitals. Inter-class correlation was 0.44 suggesting ~44% variation in DES utilization between any 2 random hospitals; DES was associated with lower rate of the primary composite outcome (aHR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.62–0.92, p=0.004) compared with BMS.

Conclusion:

In patients undergoing infrapopliteal intervention for CLTI, DES demonstrated significant underutilization despite supportive evidence of their superiority compared with BMS; DES was associated with improvement in the primary composite outcome compared with BMS.
A software-defined multi-modal wireless sensor network for ocean monitoring
Authors: Luo Hanjiang , Wang Xu , Xu Ziyang , Liu Chao , Pan Jeng-Shyang
Published: January 2022

The software-defined networking paradigm enables wireless sensor networks as a programmable and reconfigurable network to improve network management and efficiency. However, several challenges arise when implementing the concept of software-defined networking in maritime wireless sensor networks, as the networks operate in harsh ocean environments, and the dominant underwater acoustic systems are with limited bandwidth and high latency, which render the implementation of software-defined networking central-control difficult. To cope with the problems and meet demand for high-speed data transmission, we propose a radio frequency–acoustic software-defined networking-based multi-modal wireless sensor network which leverages benefits of both radio frequency and acoustic communication systems for ocean monitoring. We first present the software-defined networking-based multi-modal network architecture, and then explore two examples of applications with this architecture: network deployment and coverage for intrusion detection with both grid-based and random deployment scenarios, and a novel underwater testbed design by incorporating radio frequency–acoustic multi-modal techniques to facilitate marine sensor network experiments. Finally, we evaluate the performance of deployment and coverage of software-defined networking-based multi-modal wireless sensor network through simulations with several scenarios to verify the effectiveness of the network.
More than Humor: Memes as Bonding Icons for Belonging in Donor-Conceived People
Authors: Newton Giselle , Zappavigna Michele , Drysdale Kerryn , Newman Christy E.
Published: January 2022

Memes are a key feature of participatory digital cultures and have been found to play an important role in collective identity formation. Limited scholarship has explored the role of memes within closed communities, where perceived privacy and trust may impact the ways users demarcate the in-group (us) and out-group (them) through humor. This article draws on analysis of semi-structured interviews with Australian donor-conceived people (people conceived with donor sperm or eggs) and a collection of memes they shared. We take an interdisciplinary approach to analysis, combining reflexive thematic analysis informed by interpretive traditions within sociology with an analysis that applies the iconization framework from social semiotics. Our findings explore how donor-conceived people view memes as: texts that “only we get,” that are “light and fun” and that provide “a way to deal with emotions.” We conceptualize memes as bonding icons: semiotic artifacts which foreground shared feelings and invite alignment around a collective identity. More broadly, we argue that “getting” a meme requires alignment with the values construed, a process which reinforces ties to the community. In doing so, we explore how everyday social and linguistic practices contribute to individuals’ sense of belonging.
The roles of Christian schools in mitigating ethno-religious violence in Indonesia
Authors: Lo Sarinah
Published: January 2022

Ethnic and religious violence in Indonesia has been rampant, especially during the last three decades. In addition, many educational institutions have become hotbeds for radicalizing young minds. Amid these conditions, what role can Christian schools play to mitigate ethno-religious violence? I argue that Christian schools will have a significant place in and make an important contribution to the nation if they are willing to broaden their purpose from merely focusing on evangelism to educating for shalom, renewing their identity by adopting dual citizenship in Christ, and changing their pedagogical approaches from a banking model to hospitable teaching and learning practices.
What's in a Video: Believe it or Not
Authors: Thomas Billy
Published: January 2022

Dating back to the purchase of the first African slaves America has struggled with and failed to attain its ideal goal of racial, economic and social equity. Today, much of what we are as a society can be attributed to a binary system that was created and continues to exists along racial lines. This manuscript is a brief overview of post-reconstruction America and the events leading up to the civil rights era and passage of the Civil Right Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act in 1965. The author briefly examines America's past as it relates to the fundamental issue of human rights and the continued suppression and marginalization of targeted populations. The current level of police and civilian aggression towards people of color, the increasing number of states adopting legislation aimed at voter suppression and the recent siege of the Nation's capital by insurrectionists are alarming events and suggest the growing danger and possibility of a return to post-reconstruction America. If we are to reverse this trend we must first acknowledge and accept our transgressions and flaws, engage in self-examination and intentionally commit to change. America is only as good as the sum of its parts.
Using Curiosity to Improve Learning Outcomes in Schools
Authors: Singh Aditya , Manjaly Jaison A.
Published: January 2022

Despite a high primary school enrollment in India, the overall learning levels have been low, and the dropout level in secondary school and beyond has been high. One reason for low learning levels and high drop-out rates is the student’s lack of motivation to learn in the classroom. We suggest that curiosity may be a useful tool to improve student motivation. We look at some important variables that have been found to affect curiosity in the classroom: self-determination needs, information relevance, coherence, concreteness, ease of comprehension, fantasy, belief about interest malleability, and information gap. Finally, we suggest ways to incorporate them in the classroom to improve student motivation.
Closed Incision Negative Pressure Therapy Versus Traditional Dressings for Low Transverse Abdominal Incisions Healing by Primary Closure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gallo Lucas , Gallo Matteo , Chin Brian , Copeland Andrea , Avram Ronen , McRae Mark , McRae Matthew , Thoma Achilleas , Coroneos Christopher J. , Voineskos Sophocles H.
Published: January 2022

Background: Closed incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT) devices may reduce wound healing complications when applied to closed surgical incisions. The aim of this review was to assess the effects of ciNPT versus standard dressings in patients undergoing primary closure of high tension, lower transverse abdominal incisions. Methods: This review was registered a priori on PROSPERO (CRD42021252048). A search of the following databases was performed in February 2021: Medline, EMBASE, and CENTRAL. Unpublished trials were searched using clinicaltrials.gov. All randomized and nonrandomized studies comparing ciNPT to standard dressings were included. Two independent reviewers performed screening and data extraction. Outcomes evaluated the incidence of wound dehiscence, surgical site infection, total abdominal complications, time to drain removal, and seroma formation. Main Results: Ten studies were included in quantitative and narrative synthesis. Observational study evidence suggests ciNPT likely reduces the incidence of wound dehiscence (odds ratio [OR] 0.57 [0.44-0.96], P = .03) and total abdominal complications (OR 0.34 [0.21-0.54], P < .01). Decreased incidence of seroma formation favored ciNPT (OR 0.65 [0.24-1.76], P = .40); however, this did not achieve significance. Randomized and non-randomized study evidence was very uncertain about the effect of ciNPT on the remaining outcomes. Conclusions: The current best randomized study evidence is very uncertain about the effect of ciNPT on these outcomes. Observational study evidence suggests ciNPT likely results in a statistically significant reduction in abdominal wound dehiscence and total abdominal complications. Additional randomized trials are warranted to limit the impact of bias on the overall certainty of the evidence.