bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Scientific Shortcomings of Postcolonial Theory
Authors: Felsch Maximilian
Published: January 2023

In the social sciences, there is a trend towards normative, identity based and activist understanding of science. This trend is particularly evident in the rise of postcolonial theory. This paper critically engages with its impact in International Relations. Postcolonial theory aims to challenge established methodologies and arguments in all social science disciplines but shows little interest in rigorous research and the production of scientific knowledge. This paper highlights the most fundamental flaws of postcolonial theory, such as ideological bias, the application of blurred and one-sided concepts, the preference for anecdotal evidence over empirical evidence and ignorance of the major social and political trends of our time. Subsequently, it is argued that postcolonial theory contributes to a distorted perception of reality. Perhaps, this article can stimulate a debate about the function and scientific nature of social sciences at a time when feelings and emotions, not facts, increasingly dominate academia.
Interlaminar properties of carbon nanotubes modified carbon fibre fabric reinforced polyimide composites
Authors: Liu Yue , Li Jikang , Kuang Yue , Zhao Yongzhong , Wang Min , Wang Hongtao , Chen Xu
Published: January 2023

Carbon fibre reinforced polymers are widely used in industrial applications due to their excellent properties. However, the weak matrix-dominated interlaminar properties limit its further application. With their unique properties, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have great potential to improve the mechanical properties of composite materials. In this paper, carbon nanotube-modified carbon fibre/polyimide (CF/CNTs/PI) multi-scale composites were prepared by introducing amino-functionalized multi-walled CNTs into a PI resin matrix using an ultrasonic dispersion method. The interlaminar properties of the prepared composites were comprehensively evaluated by double cantilever beam (DCB), end-notched flexure (ENF), and short seam shear (SBS) tests. It is shown that the addition of 0.5wt.% CNTs increased the Mode I and Mode II interlaminar fracture toughness of the material by 50.21% and 61.74%, respectively, and the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) by 42.85%. The CNTs bridging the crack tip and enhancing the fibre/matrix interface bonding ability were the dominating mechanisms for the improvement of interlaminar properties.
How Does the Presence of Others Influence Control Inhibition? Contradictory Evidence Using an Antisaccade and Stop Signal Task
Authors: Garcia-Marques Teresa , Fernandes Alexandre
Published: January 2023

Inhibitory control (IC) is defined as the (in)ability to change, suppress, or delay a response that is no longer required under the current circumstances. This ability was previously argued to increase in social contexts, based on Stroop’s performance, showing that participants performed the Stroop task better in others’ presence than alone. In this paper, we extend the testing of this same hypothesis to the use of two other tasks that Mitake et al. (2000) show to grasp the same IC ability; the Antisaccade and Stop signal tasks. If Stroop’s performance was capturing the impact of the presence of others on CI abilities, the effect would generalize to performance on these tasks. This hypothesis was only generally supported by stop signal task performance; those in the presence condition were significantly more efficient than those in the alone conditions. For the Antisaccade tasks, evidence shows that higher levels of interference occurs in the presence of others condition for participants' fastest responses We discuss how this evidence contributes to the literature suggesting that the two tasks may index different constructs.
Successful management of an unstable paediatric laryngeal injury in a low-resource setting
Authors: Watts E , Little L , Bewick J , Chin JWE , Jonas N
Published: January 2023

Laryngeal injury is rare but has a very high mortality rate. Compared to adults, laryngeal injury in children is more uncommon due to both behavioural and anatomical reasons. Severe laryngeal injury may require surgical repair, intensive care support and tracheostomy care, all of which are difficult to achieve in a low resource setting. We report a case of successful management of laryngeal trauma in a child involving an emergency tracheostomy insertion, open repair of thyroid cartilage fracture, tracheal stenting and successful decannulation after 8 weeks post-injury with full recovery.
Frequency of abnormal Pap smear in patients presenting with postcoital bleeding in Tertiary Care Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Rasool Sehrish , Naz Farah , Abdul Wahab Tooba , Khidri Feriha Fatima , Riaz Hina , Abbasi Noureen
Published: January 2023

Postcoital bleeding increases the chance of detecting cervical dysplasia and cancer; and the Pap smear is the recommended screening test in these patients. We conducted a cross-sectional study that included 110 women to find out the frequency of abnormal Pap smear in such patients. Their age range was 15–65 years with a mean age of 31.2 ± 11.2 years. Abnormal Pap smear was found in 54 (49%) women. Atypical squamous cells of unknown significance (ASCUS) were found in 13.6%, low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) in 20.9%, high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) in 11.8% and carcinoma in 2.7% of those. Because of the high frequency of abnormal Pap smear associated with postcoital bleeding in our population, cervical screening and strict monitoring are suggested as the important screening indications.
The Impact of Transition Intervention in High School on Pathways Through College
Authors: Xu Zeyu , Backes Ben , Goldhaber Dan
Published: January 2023

Objective: In 2009, the Kentucky General Assembly found unacceptable and costly the ongoing high numbers of high school students requiring remediation once they enter higher education. The state passed legislation to better align secondary and college education, establishing a diagnostic cycle that would become its Targeted Interventions (TI) program. Using 11 years of panel data, this study tracked college progression of seven cohorts of students in order to estimate the impacts of this program. Method: Using student-level administrative data from the state of Kentucky that tracks students from high school through college, a difference-in-regression-discontinuity design was used to compare how students just below college readiness benchmarks fared relative to those just above once TI was implemented. Results: The TI program significantly increased the likelihood that students took at least 15 credits during their first term, a key predictive measure for college completion. However, these early effects did not translate into detectable impacts on the likelihood of earning enough credits to graduate from college or likelihood of transfers from a 2-year to a 4-year college. One possible explanation for this pattern is that TI appears to have crowded out other core courses in high school, especially in math, without increasing total instructional time. Findings suggest that the standards used by high schools to judge student progress toward college readiness may be consistent with the skills needed to place out of developmental courses, but not sufficient to better prepare students for college-level instruction. Contributions: To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore how TI shapes longer term college outcomes. The transition curriculum, while helping students avoid the need for college developmental courses, did not help a measurable share of students develop necessary skills to progress through college relative to what they would have otherwise taken. A possible explanation for these findings is that high school-to-college transition interventions that do not increase total instruction time do not sufficiently move the needle on the college preparedness among high school graduates. For states concerned with the number of students entering college deemed not college ready, it appears that high school-to-college transition interventions that supplant instead of supplement regular high school curriculum have a limited scope for impact on long-run college success.
To pay, heal, and repair Mother Earth in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: Experiences of indigenous women’s reparation in the implementation of the Colombian Peace Accord
Authors: Santamaria Angela , Cáceres Paula , D’amico Morgana , Sefair Roxana , Rosas Fabián , Restrepo Laura , Carianil Laura , Moreno Gabriel
Published: January 2023

This paper describes collaborative research with Wiwa and Arhuaco women concerning local reparations with an intersectional perspective on the Colombian post-conflict agreement. Our central argument is that indigenous women’s processes, experiences, and expectations of reparation reflect a wish to engage in a dialogue with the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) through its Works, Projects or Activities (TOAR) so that their perspectives on and complex conceptions of harm and reparation, as well as their relationship with social orders, bodies, and territory, can be recognized and considered in managing the risks of the revitalization of patriarchy during the post-accord period.
The challenges of conducting systematic evidence reviews: A case study of factors shaping children’s digital skills
Authors: Haddon Leslie , Cino Davide , Doyle Mary-Alice
Published: January 2023

Systematic evidence reviews draw together findings from multiple studies, helping researchers and decision makers to understand patterns of research and findings across varying contexts and research methodologies. They have become more popular over the last twenty years, with various guides discussing the different ways in which they can be conducted and the issues arising in this process. This case study of a systematic review of the factors shaping children’s digital skills explores the challenges, risks and potential strategies in this process, as those involved in that review reflect upon the various judgements involved in choosing inclusion criteria, filtering and coding studies and synthesising the material collected.
Human papillomavirus vaccination coverage among sexually active young adults aged 18 to 26 at a sexually transmitted infections clinic
Authors: Tao Jun , Kapadia Jhanavi , Fenn Natalie , Almonte Alexi A , Toma Emily , Murphy Matthew , Nunn Amy , Su L Joseph , Chan Philip A
Published: January 2023

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is the most effective biomedical intervention for HPV infections. HPV vaccination rate among sexually active young adults is largely unknown.

Methods

Patients aged 18–26 years, who attended the Rhode Island Sexually Transmitted Infections Clinic between 2013–2018, were included in the study. We extracted demographics, behavioral characteristics, and HPV vaccination status from electronic medical records. Exploratory logistic regressions were conducted to identify factors associated with vaccination status.

Results

Among 2729 eligible individuals, the median age was 23 years (interquartile range: 22–25). Only 8.1% of males and 24.8% of females received at least one dose of HPV vaccine. Females were 144% (crude odds ratio [cOR]: 2.44, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.03, 2.94) more likely to receive at least one dose of HPV vaccine than males. Being Black/African American (B/AA) or Hispanic/Latino (H/L) was associated with a 21% (cOR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.62, 1.00) and 34% (cOR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.53, 0.81) decrease in the odds of vaccination, respectively.

Conclusions

HPV vaccination rate was low among sexually active young adults. Gender and racial/ethnic disparities existed in HPV vaccination. Interventions are needed to promote HPV vaccination among sexually active young adults, especially B/AA and H/L communities.
Gendered labour market patterns across Europe: Does family policy mitigate feminization of outsiders?
Authors: Seo Hyojin
Published: January 2023

Studies have shown positive impact of family policies on women’s labour market participation over the last decades. How, then, does it influence the types of jobs women obtain when they (re-)enter the labour market? Using multi-level modelling, this study examines how different work–family balance policies (that is, leave policies, childcare services) shape gendered labour market patterns and whether or not it mitigates women’s overrepresentation among the labour market Outsiders across Europe. I use European Working Conditions Survey 2015 data and cover 30 European countries. Specifically focusing on women’s relative likelihood of being labour market Outsiders compared to men, I find that certain policies help women avoid being Outsiders, while the others may reinforce the existing gender inequality in the labour market. This resonates with the welfare state paradox and family policy trade-off literature that the policies that do not disrupt the gender norms may in turn maintain or enhance them.
Unit information prior for incorporating real-world evidence into randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhang Hengtao , Yin Guosheng
Published: January 2023

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been widely recognized as the gold standard to infer the treatment effect in clinical research. Recently, there has been growing interest in enhancing and complementing the result in an RCT by integrating real-world evidence from observational studies. The unit information prior (UIP) is a newly proposed technique that can effectively borrow information from multiple historical datasets. We extend this generic approach to synthesize the non-randomized evidence into a current RCT. Not only does the UIP only require summary statistics published from observational studies for ease of implementation, but it also has clear interpretations and can alleviate the potential bias in the real-world evidence via weighting schemes. Extensive numerical experiments show that the UIP can improve the statistical efficiency in estimating the treatment effect for various types of outcome variables. The practical potential of our UIP approach is further illustrated with a real trial of hydroxychloroquine for treating COVID-19 patients.
Validation for Multidimensional Measure of Reentry Well-Being Among Individuals Who Are Incarcerated
Authors: Veeh Christopher A. , Renn Tanya , Pettus Carrie , Petscher Yaacov
Published: January 2023

Purpose: Thousands release from imprisonment every day but no specialized measures of progress during reentry exist beyond criminal risk. This study investigates a new measure of well-being during the transition to the community called the Reentry Well-Being Assessment Tool (RWAT). The RWAT is designed as an alternative to measures of risk while responding to the challenges of individualizing program services and evaluating effectiveness. Method: Confirmatory factor analysis informed by item response theory was undertaken to identify a parsimonious set of RWAT items. Results: Analysis identified 13 unidimensional factors. Multidimensional modeling supported a second-order factor to assess reentry well-being with minor modifications, ( x2(3,724) = 12,564.27, p <.001; root mean square error of approximation = 0.04 [0.039–0.040]; comparative fit index = 0.91; Tucker-Lewis index = 0.91). Discussion: The final RWAT is composed of seven measures with 89 items. Further research is needed to investigate the RWAT in populations disproportionately impacted by mass incarceration, particularly women of color.
Does the balloon-assisted maturation procedure offer comparable results for AVF created with a smaller vein?
Authors: Huang Hsuan-Chiao , Hsu Chiann-Yi , Kang Ming-Yuan
Published: January 2023

Background:

Traditionally, a venous diameter of less than 3 mm was not considered for creation of AVF. Some studies have reported smaller venous size could be used for operation. AVF created with a smaller vein may have a lower maturation rate. Currently, percutaneous angioplasty is also used to enhance the maturation of AVF. This study aimed to establish whether the BAM procedure could offer comparable results for AVF created with a smaller vein.

Methods:

From January 2016 to July 2021, 290 patients who received native AVF operation were enrolled in this study. All of the preoperative venous sizes were measured by Duplex ultrasonography under tourniquet enhancement. The study cohort was categorized into two groups based on the pre-operative venous diameter: smaller vein group (SVG, 2.5 < size < 3 mm, 53.1%) and normal vein group (NVG, size ⩾ 3 mm, 46.9%).

Results:

The mean age was 64 ± 12.9 years, and 58.6% of patients were male. Hypertension and DM were the most common comorbidities. Most patients underwent operation of radio-cephalic fistula (71.4%). The overall primary maturation rate was 79%. The primary maturation rate was significantly higher in the NVG (86% vs 72.7%, p = 0.009). However, after the BAM procedure, the secondary maturation rate was similar in both groups (94.1% vs 90.3%, p = 0.319).

Conclusions:

According to our study, the BAM procedure can significantly increase the maturation rate, and the secondary maturation rate was similar in both groups. Thus, more patients can be given the opportunity to undergo creation of an AVF for long-term hemodialysis.
A Statistical Investigation into the COVID-19 Outbreak Spread
Authors: Parvin Rehana
Published: January 2023

Objective:

Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) outbreaks have been reported in a range of climates worldwide, including Bangladesh. There is less evidence of a link between the COVID-19 pandemic and climatic variables. This research article’s purpose is to examine the relationship between COVID-19 outbreaks and climatic factors in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Methods:

The daily time series COVID-19 data used in this study span from May 1, 2020, to April 14, 2021, for the study area, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The Climatic factors included in this study were average temperature, particulate matter ([Formula: see text]), humidity, carbon emissions, and wind speed within the same timeframe and location. The strength and direction of the relationship between meteorological factors and COVID-19 positive cases are examined using the Spearman correlation. This study examines the asymmetric effect of climatic factors on the COVID-19 pandemic in Dhaka, Bangladesh, using the Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model.

Results:

COVID-19 widespread has a substantial positive association with wind speed ( r = .781), temperature ( r = .599), and carbon emissions ( r = .309), whereas [Formula: see text] ( r = −.178) has a negative relationship at the 1% level of significance. Furthermore, with a 1% change in temperature, the incidence of COVID-19 increased by 1.23% in the short run and 1.53% in the long run, with the remaining variables remaining constant. Similarly, in the short-term, humidity was not significantly related to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in the long term, it increased 1.13% because of a 1% change in humidity. The changes in PM2.5 level and wind speed are significantly associated with COVID-19 new cases after adjusting population density and the human development index.
Mediatisation, digital spaces and live performance: Understanding Indian stand-up comedy and evolving performance landscapes
Authors: Shivaprasad Madhavi
Published: January 2023

This paper is a reflection on the points of convergence between live performance and the media within Indian stand-up comedy. Traditionally, live performance has been seen in opposition to the media. While the former is defined by spatial and temporal co-presence of the audience and spectators, the latter has neither (Auslander, 2012). While stand-up comedy is primarily live, digital and mass media are used extensively by comedians to build a professional reputation for themselves through their presence and participation on social media. However, after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, much of performance art – including stand-up comedy – has moved online. That is, comedians are experimenting with the online media: Zoom, Instagram Live, Facebook Live and so on, to put up live performances that would otherwise have been performed within a comedy club or café. This paper derives its theoretical basis from Philip Auslander’s postulation of liveness in a mediatised culture and digital liveness which ‘results from our conscious act of grasping virtual entities as live in response to the claims [technology makes] on us’ (2012: 13). The paper attempts a theoretical reflection on how to ‘read’ a stand-up comedy performance for pedagogical purposes in these different contexts as the idea of liveness, mediatisation and our experience of the live evolves with time and context.
Disinformation and weaponized communication: The spread of ideological hate about the Macedonian name in Greece
Authors: Karyotakis Minos-Athanasios
Published: January 2023

The study examined through ideological discourse analysis (IDA) 38 widely spread disinformation-laced news stories (or “fake news”) regarding the Macedonian Name Dispute (MND) and the “Prespes Agreement” in the years 2018 and 2019. The paper explores the ideological narratives and constructions disseminated through the disinformation-laced news stories during these 2 years. Therefore, the study expands the relevant literature regarding democracy, disinformation, and hate campaigns by examining the ideological narratives and constructions disseminated through the disinformation-laced news stories during that two-years-period. The findings showed that those news stories were successfully weaponized and resulted in empowering identity characteristics and ideological narratives through the distancing method (us vs them), the alienation with elements of dramatization (e.g. territorial loss of the Greek Macedonia due to the “Prespes Agreement”), and the sense of victimization and dehumanization that demanded emergency actions to protect the ingroup (Greece) from the outgroup (North Macedonia and its Greek assistants).
The Time to Act Is Now: Investing in LGBTQIA2S+ Student Mental Health in K-12 Schools With a Youth-Centered Approach
Authors: Cikara lauren , Gatto Amy , Hill Ashley , Hobson Annie
Published: January 2023

Compared to youth a decade ago, today’s youth experience increased rates of mental health concerns as well as greater severity of mental health issues. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, over a third of youth reported feeling sad and hopeless and one in five reported having seriously considered suicide. With this grim reality, schools and communities are no longer able to ignore how mental health affects the daily lives, social and emotional development, and identify formation of their youth. When schools implement mental health promotion programs and policies, they not only promote academic success but also increase protective factors that establish an environment supportive of help-seeking behaviors. Active Minds is committed to improving mental health outcomes for youth, specifically LGBTQIA2S+ students, enrolled in K-12 schools across the United States. These recommendations, grounded in evidence-based best practices, provide support for schools as they work to improve student mental health. These recommendations include the following: Implementing the Whole School, Whole Child, Whole Community (WSCC) model; Centering youth voices in mental health promotion; Participating in surveillance efforts; Ensuring mental health support for students with diverse identities and needs; Providing space to address individual biases and stigma; Developing and aligning policies and culture to support youth mental health.
3D printing on freeform surface: Real-time and accurate 3D dynamic dense surface reconstruction with HoloLens and displacement measurement sensors
Authors: Sheng Yu-Ting , Liong Sze-Teng , Wang Shih-Yuan , Gan Yee-Siang
Published: January 2023

This paper attempts to print irregular 3D objects on a freeform surface. Notably, it is inevitable to cause errors when creating a specific object shape in simulated and real-life scenarios. This is mainly attributed to the unique characteristics of the materials adopted, which tend to develop different deformations properties. Nevertheless, since the simulated model provides a clue regarding the coordinates of the deformed shape, it is adopted as an essential indicator in estimating accurate real-world coordinates. Concretely, this paper presents a complete system that is capable of reconstructing the detailed surface coordinates in real-time conditions. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, a metal board is used as the primary material to create different curvatures physically and virtually. In particular, the real-time performance of the overall 3D surface reconstruction has been experimentally evaluated using several tools, such as KUKA KR90 R3100 robots, HoloLens 2, displacement sensor, and ArUco markers. Consequently, both the quantitative and qualitative results are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method. Furthermore, the experimental data obtained manifest that there are significant differences between the simulated and the real-world coordinates. Thus, the findings of this study provide an insightful outlook and lay down several important implications for future practice.
Good collaterals and better outcomes after EVT for basilar artery occlusion: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Yuying , Tian Xuan , Leung Thomas W , Liu Liping , Liebeskind David S , Leng Xinyi
Published: January 2023

Background:

Stroke caused by acute basilar artery occlusion (BAO) is devastating with high dependency and mortality. Recent trials have demonstrated the efficacy of endovascular treatment (EVT) for acute BAO, while pretreatment collaterals may be a valuable prognostic indicator for post-EVT outcomes.

Aims:

To systematically review and synthesize evidence on the associations between pretreatment collateral status and outcomes after EVT in acute BAO.

Methods:

We retrieved relevant full-text articles published in English since 1 January 2010, reporting associations between pretreatment collateral status and outcomes after EVT for BAO, by searching MEDLINE and Embase. The primary outcome was favorable or good 90-day functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] 0–2 or 0–3); secondary outcomes included successful recanalization, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, final infarct volume, and 90-day mortality. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for good versus poor collaterals on the outcomes were synthesized using random-effects models. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted for the primary outcome.

Results:

Overall, 29 primary studies (2995 participants) were included in qualitative review, among which 16 studies (1447 participants) were meta-analyzed. With different imaging modalities and methods to grade the collateral status, good collaterals were found in 33–85% of patients in the individual primary studies (I2 = 95.2%, p < 0.001), with a pooled proportion of 51% (95% CI: 40–62%) across all studies. Good pretreatment collaterals were associated with a doubled rate of favorable/good 90-day functional outcome (RR = 2.03, 95% CI: 1.63–2.51, p < 0.001), a higher rate of successful recanalization (RR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.04–1.45, p = 0.015), and reduced 90-day mortality (RR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.43–0.81, p = 0.001) after EVT for BAO. None of the primary studies reported the associations of good collaterals with the other secondary outcomes. Subgroup analyses revealed possibly more prominent protective effect of good pretreatment collaterals over the primary outcome, in studies with longer time windows in patient eligibility criteria for EVT (p = 0.028 for between-subgroup heterogeneity).

Conclusions:

In patients with BAO receiving EVT, good pretreatment collateral status was associated with a higher chance of favorable 90-day functional outcome, despite the various methods in grading the collateral circulation. Efforts are needed for more standardized collateral assessment in BAO, for more reliable and generalizable investigations of its clinical implications.
Patient online access to general practice medical records: A qualitative study on patients’ needs and expectations
Authors: Thielmann Rosa RLC , Hoving Ciska , Schutgens-Kok Esther , Cals Jochen WL , Crutzen Rik
Published: January 2023

Background

Patient online access to medical records is assumed to foster patient empowerment and advance patient-centred healthcare. Since July 2020, patients in the Netherlands have been legally entitled to electronically access their medical record in general practice. Experience from pioneering countries has shown that despite high patient interest, user rates often remain low. How to best support implementation depends on individual needs and expectations of patient populations, which are as yet unknown in the Dutch context.

Objective

To understand Dutch patients’ needs and expectations with regard to online access to their medical record in general practice.

Method

Twenty participants completed semi-structured individual interviews via video or telephone call. Transcripts of interviews underwent template analysis combining deductive and inductive coding using Atlas.ti software.

Results

Patients’ needs and expectations ranged across three overlapping areas: (i) prerequisites for getting online access; (ii) using online access; and (iii) the impact on interaction with healthcare providers. Patients expected benefits from online access such as better overview, empowerment and improved communication with their general practitioner but identified needs regarding technological difficulties, data privacy and complex medical language in their record.

Conclusion

The concerns and obstacles participants identified point towards the need for organisational changes in general practice, for example, adjusted documentation practices, and the key role of the general practitioner and staff in promoting and facilitating online access.

Implications

Implementation strategies addressing needs identified in this study may help to unlock the full potential of online access to achieve desired outcomes of patient involvement and satisfaction.
PARP inhibition utilized in combination therapy with Olaparib‐Temozolomide to achieve disease stabilization in a rare case of BRCA1‐mutant, metastatic myxopapillary ependymoma
Authors: Mahalingam Preethika , Smith Sam , Lopez Juanita , Sharma Rajaei K , Millard Thomas , Thway Khin , Fisher Cyril , Reardon David A , Jones Robin , Nicholson Andrew G , Cunningham David , Welsh Liam , Sharma Bhupinder
Published: January 2023

Myxopapillary ependymoma (MPE) is a primary tumor of the central nervous system (CNS), characteristically an indolent malignancy involving the spinal conus medullaris, Filum terminale or cauda equina. We present a rare case of MPE, recurrent in the pelvic soft tissue with eventual pleural and intra-pulmonary metastasis. Refractory to repeated gross resection, adjuvant radiotherapy, platinum-based chemotherapy and temozolomide exploitation of mutant somatic BRCA1 status with the addition of a poly (ADP-ribose); polymerase inhibitor (PARPi) in a novel combination regimen with olaparib-temozolomide (OT) has achieved stable radiological disease after 10 cycles.
A Trauma-informed Consultation Model for Treating Survivors of Child Labour
Authors: Chatterjee Purabi , Bhandari Vinni , Gelaye Bizu , Harrison Alexandra , Aboelghar Aya , Levey Elizabeth J.
Published: January 2023

Child labour is a global problem that affects children’s lives. Children engage in work that is physically, mentally, and emotionally harmful. Previous studies have found that exposure to work as a child is associated with adverse mental health outcomes, and severity is related to the intensity and type of work. India is ranked highest in terms of children in labour in South Asia, according to ILO estimates. The Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation (KSCF) is a non-profit organization focused on addressing the problem of child labour in India.

It works to rescue children from bonded labour and return them to their families or place them in rehabilitation centres. KSCF partnered with the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health and Medical Aid Films to create a consultation program that aims to support the children and the caregivers at the rehabilitation centres. The program includes a series of short animated films, a trauma training curriculum, and ongoing case consultation with the caregivers.
Step-by-Step Stereotactic Radiotherapy Planning of Glomus Jugulare: A Guide to Radiation Oncologists—Dr Kanhu’s ROSE (Radiation Oncology from Simulation to Execution)
Authors: Patro Kanhu Charan , Avinash Ajitesh , Kundu Chittaranjan , Bhattacharyya Partha Sarathi , Pilaka Venkata Krishna Reddy , Rao Mrutyunjayarao Muvvala , Prabu Arunachalam Chithambara , Kumar Ayyalasomayajula Anil , Aketi Srinu , Prasad Parasa , Atchaiyalingam Mohanapriya , Karthikeyan Keerthiga , Radhakrishnan Kaviya Lakshmi
Published: January 2023

Background

Glomus jugulare is a rare, slow-growing tumor that arise within the jugular foramen of the temporal bone. In the past, surgery was the primary modality of treatment for glomus Jugulare, but it leads to many complications and increased mortality. Radiotherapy was indicated in adjuvant setting in post-operative residual disease. But, with the advent of highly conformal radiation planning, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), is now one of the main modalities of radiation treatment in glomus jugulare.

Objective

To describe the procedural steps for radiation planning of SRS of glomus jugulare.

Methods

The step-by-step procedure for stereotactic planning of glomus jugulare has been described using a clinical scenario of glomus jugulare.

Results

The stereotactic radiation planning of glomus jugulare starts with the basic history and relevant clinical evaluation, that is, visual testing. Computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain is the imaging modality of choice. The radiation planning of glomus jugulare starts with CT simulation. MRI of brain should be done in the prescribed format to achieve uniformity in radiation planning. After CT and MRI image fusion, contouring of target, organs at risk (OAR) and radiation planning should be done. The plan evaluation includes target and OAR coverage index, conformity, homogeneity and gradient index, and beam arrangement. After radiation plan evaluation, treatment is delivered after quality assurance and dry run.

Conclusion

The paper highlights the sequential process of radiation planning for SRS in glomus jugulare—starting from simulation, planning, evaluation of plan, and treatment.
Photobiomodulation promotes spinal cord injury repair by inhibiting macrophage polarization through lncRNA TUG1-miR-1192/TLR3 axis
Authors: Ju Cheng , Ma Yangguang , Zuo Xiaoshuang , Wang Xuankang , Song Zhiwen , Zhang Zhihao , Zhu Zhijie , Li Xin , Liang Zhuowen , Ding Tan , Hu Xueyu , Wang Zhe
Published: January 2023

Background

Secondary spinal cord injury (SCI) often causes the aggravation of inflammatory reaction and nerve injury, which affects the recovery of motor function. Bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were recruited to the injured area after SCI, and the M1 polarization is the key process for inducing inflammatory response and neuronal apoptosis. We previously showed that photobiomodulation (PBM) can inhibit the polarization of M1 phenotype of BMDMs and reduce inflammation, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. The purpose of this study is to explore the potential target and mechanism of PBM in treating SCI.

Methods

Transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis showed that long noncoding RNA taurine upregulated gene 1 (lncRNA TUG1) was a potential target of PBM. The expression and specific mechanism of lncRNA TUG1 were detected by qPCR, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, western blotting, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and luciferase assay. The Basso mouse scale (BMS) and gait analysis were used to evaluate the recovery of motor function in mice.

Results

Results showed that lncRNA TUG1 may be a potential target of PBM, regulating the polarization of BMDMs, inflammatory response, and the axial growth of DRG. Mechanistically, TUG1 competed with TLR3 for binding to miR-1192 and attenuated the inhibitory effect of miR-1192 on TLR3. This effect protected TLR3 from degradation, enabling the high expression of TLR3, which promoted the activation of downstream NF-κB signal and the release of inflammatory cytokines. In vivo, PBM treatment could reduce the expression of TUG1, TLR3, and inflammatory cytokines and promoted nerve survival and motor function recovery in SCI mice.

Conclusions

Our study clarified that the lncRNA TUG1/miR-1192/TLR3 axis is an important pathway for PBM to inhibit M1 macrophage polarization and inflammation, which provides theoretical support for its clinical application in patients with SCI.
Semen quality changes during infection and recovery phases of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in reproductive-aged patients: a prospective case series
Authors: Mohammed Nasreldin , Kamel Mostafa , Gadelkareem Rabea Ahmed , Zarzour Mohammed Ali , Kurkar Adel , Abdel-Moniem Ahmed Mohammed , Behnsawy Hosny
Published: January 2023

Background

Despite the documented effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on spermatogenesis, the reversibility of these effects is uncertain. We aimed to assess the changes of sperm quality between the infection and recovery phases of COVID-19 in reproductive-aged men. The semen quality of men with mild-to-moderated COVID-19 (defined by the degrees of symptoms and chest involvement on computed tomography) was studied during October, 2020–May, 2021 at our hospital. Two semen samples were analyzed at timings estimated to represent spermatogenic cycles during the infection and recovery phases of COVID-19.

Results

A total of 100 patients were included with mean ± SD (range) age of 24.6 ± 3.3 (21–35) years. During infection, 33% of patients had abnormal semen quality. However, a significant reduction was found in this abnormality from 33 to 11% (P < 0.001) after recovery from infection. In a comparison of the two semen analyses, there were significant improvements in the mean values of sperm progressive motility (P =0.043) and normal morphology (P < 0.001). However, the mean sperm concentration showed a statistically insignificant increase (P = 0.844).

Conclusions

In reproductive-aged patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19, the effects on seminal quality were recoverable, represented by significant improvements in the means of progressive sperm motility and normal morphology between the infection and recovery phases of COVID-19.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials, NCT04595240.
Tolerance to dietary linalool primarily involves co-expression of cytochrome P450s and cuticular proteins in Pagiophloeus tsushimanus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) larvae using SMRT sequencing and RNA-seq
Authors: Li Shouyin , Li Hui , Chen Cong , Hao Dejun
Published: January 2023

Background

Pagiophloeus tsushimanus(Coleoptera: Curculionidae), an emerging forest pest exclusively infesting camphor trees, has recently caused severe ecological and economic damage in localized areas in China. Its population outbreak depends largely on the capacity to overcome the pressure of terpenoid-derived metabolites (e.g. linalool) from camphor trees. At present, the molecular basis of physiological adaptation ofP. tsushimanusto dietary linalool is poorly understood, and there is no available reference genome or transcriptome.

Results

Herein, we constructed the transcriptome profiling ofP. tsushimanuslarvae reared on linalool-infused diets using RNA sequencing and single-molecule real-time sequencing. A total of 20,325 high-quality full-length transcripts were identified as a reference transcriptome, of which 14,492 protein-coding transcripts including 130 transcription factors (TFs), and 5561 long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were detected. Also, 30 alternative splicing events and 8049 simple sequence repeats were captured. Gene ontology enrichment of differential expressed transcripts revealed that overall up-regulation of both cytochrome P450s (CYP450s) and cuticular proteins (CPs), was the primary response characteristic against dietary linalool. Other physiological effects possibly caused by linalool exposure, such as increase in Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and hormetic stimulation, were compensated by a handful of induced genes encoding antioxidases, heat shock proteins (HSPs), juvenile hormone (JH) epoxide hydrolases, and digestive enzymes. Additionally, based on co-expression networks analysis, a diverse array of hub lncRNAs and TFs co-expressed with CYP450s and CPs were screened as the potential gene regulators. Temporal expression of candidate transcripts determined by quantitative real-time PCR also indicated a cooperative relationship between the inductions of CYP450s and CPs upon exposure to linalool.

Conclusions

Our present study provides an important transcriptome resource ofP. tsushimanus, and lays a valuable foundation for understanding how this specialist pest copes with chemical challenges in its specific host environments.
The vaginal microbiota of women living with HIV on suppressive antiretroviral therapy and its relation to high-risk human papillomavirus infection
Authors: Chávez-Torres Monserrat , Gómez-Palacio-Schjetnan Maria , Reyes-Terán Gustavo , Briceño Olivia , Ávila-Ríos Santiago , Romero-Mora Karla Alejandra , Pinto-Cardoso Sandra
Published: January 2023

Background

Few studies have investigated the vaginal microbiota (VM) in women living with HIV (WLWH) in the context of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection, even though WLWH are at an increased risk of HPV-related malignancies, including cervical cancer. To explore the impact of HIV and HPV infection on the VM in WLWH, we determined the prevalence of HR-HPV infection and cervical cytologic abnormalities in a cohort of 44 WLWH and 39 seronegative-women (SNW), characterized the vaginal microbiota by 16S sequencing, assessed genital inflammation and systemic immune activation by multiplex bead assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Finally, we explored relationships between bacterial richness and diversity, the top 20 bacterial genera, genital inflammation and systemic immune activation.

Results

We found that HR-HPV prevalence was similar between WLWH and SNW. High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) were only detected in WLWH negative for HR-HPV infection. In regression analyses, no risk factors were identified. Women co-infected with HIV and HR-HPV had the highest level of systemic immune activation, and these levels were significantly different compared with SNW without HR-HPV infection. Lactobacillus iners was the dominant Lactobacillus species in WLWH and SNW alike.

Conclusion

We found no evidence of differences in vaginal microbial richness and diversity, microbial community structure, and genital inflammation by HIV, HPV, or HIV and HPV status.
Modulation of the microbiota across different intestinal segments by Rifaximin in PI-IBS mice
Authors: Zhang Shengyan , Hong Gaichao , Li Gangping , Qian Wei , Jin Yu , Hou Xiaohua
Published: January 2023

Background

Rifaximin has been increasingly applied in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treatment. Whether there were differences in the effects of rifaximin on microbiota from different intestinal segments, especially the small intestine where rifaximin predominantly acted, has not been confirmed.

Methods

In this study, we usedTrichinella spiralisinfection to induce post infectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS) and measured visceral sensitivity of mice by means of abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) tests to colorectal distention (CRD). We compared the effects of rifaximin on the composition of ileal, colonic mucosal and fecal microbiota in PI-IBS mice.

Results

Rifaximin significantly reduced AWR scores and increased pain threshold in PI-IBS mice, and this effect was associated with the change in the relative abundance of ileal mucosal microbiota. Rifaximin could obviously decrease ileum mucosal microbiota alpha diversity assessed by Shannon microbial diversity index. Meanwhile, the analysis of beta diversity and relative abundance of microbiota at phylum, family and genus levels showed that rifaximin could improve the microbiota structure of ileal mucosa. However, for colonic mucosal and fecal microbiota, this effect of rifaximin was not obvious. Rifaximin could reshape the correlation of genera between different intestinal segments.

Conclusion

Rifaximin improved visceral hypersensitivity in PI-IBS mice. Rifaximin mainly affected ileal mucosal microbiota, and its improvement effect on IBS might be closely related to the improvement of ileal microbiota structure.
Primary care team and its association with quality of care for people with multimorbidity: a systematic review
Authors: Li Mingyue , Tang Haoqing , Liu Xiaoyun
Published: January 2023

Background

Multimorbidity is posing an enormous burden to health systems, especially for primary healthcare system. While primary care teams (PCTs) are believed to have potentials to improve quality of primary health care (PHC), less is known about their impact on the quality of care for people with multimorbidity. We assessed the characteristics of PCTs and their impact on the quality of care for people with multimorbidity and the mechanisms. 

Methods

We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, ProQuest for published studies from January 2000 to October 2021 for studies in English. Following through PRISMA guidelines, two reviewers independently abstracted data and reconciled by consensus with a third reviewer. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were evaluated to identify relevant studies. Studies were categorized by types of interventions, the impact of interventions on outcome measures, and mechanisms of interventions. 

Results

Seventeen studies (13 RCT, 3 cohort studies, and 1 non-randomized trial) were identified. PCTs were summarized into three types—upward PCTs, downward PCTs and traditional PCTs according to the skill mix. The upward PCTs included primary care workers and specialists from upper-level hospitals, downward PCTs involving primary care workers and lay health workers, and traditional PCTs involving physicians and care managers. PCTs improved patients’ mental and psychological health outcomes greatly, and also improved patients’ perceptions towards care including satisfaction with care, sense of improvement, and patient-centeredness. PCTs also improved the process of care and changed providers’ behaviors. However, PCTs showed mixed effects on clinical outcome measures.

Conclusions

PCTs have improved mental and psychological health outcomes, the process of care, patients’ care experiences, and satisfaction towards care for patients with multimorbidity. The effect of PCTs on clinical outcomes and changes in patient behaviors need to be further explored.