bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting S100A9–ALDH1A1–Retinoic Acid Signaling to Suppress Brain Relapse inEGFR-Mutant Lung Cancer
Authors: Biswas Anup Kumar , Han Seoyoung , Tai Yifan , Ma Wanchao , Coker Courtney , Quinn S. Aidan , Shakri Ahmad Rushdi , Zhong Timothy James , Scholze Hanna , Lagos Galina G. , Mela Angeliki , Manova-Todorova Katia , de Stanchina Elisa , Ferrando Adolfo A. , Mendelsohn Cathy , Canoll Peter , Yu Helena A. , Paik Paul K. , Saqi Anjali , Shu Catherine A. , Kris Mark G. , Massague Joan , Acharyya Swarnali
Published: January 2022

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) osimertinib has significantly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with EGFR-mutant lung cancer, including those with brain metastases. However, despite striking initial responses, osimertinib-treated patients eventually develop lethal metastatic relapse, often to the brain. Although osimertinib-refractory brain relapse is a major clinical challenge, its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Using metastatic models of EGFR-mutant lung cancer, we show that cancer cells expressing high intracellular S100A9 escape osimertinib and initiate brain relapses. Mechanistically, S100A9 upregulates ALDH1A1 expression and activates the retinoic acid (RA) signaling pathway in osimertinib-refractory cancer cells. We demonstrate that the genetic repression of S100A9, ALDH1A1, or RA receptors (RAR) in cancer cells, or treatment with a pan-RAR antagonist, dramatically reduces brain metastasis. Importantly, S100A9 expression in cancer cells correlates with poor PFS in osimertinib-treated patients. Our study, therefore, identifies a novel, therapeutically targetable S100A9–ALDH1A1–RA axis that drives brain relapse.

Significance:

Treatment with the EGFR TKI osimertinib prolongs the survival of patients with EGFR-mutant lung cancer; however, patients develop metastatic relapses, often to the brain. We identified a novel intracellular S100A9–ALDH1A1–RA signaling pathway that drives lethal brain relapse and can be targeted by pan-RAR antagonists to prevent cancer progression and prolong patient survival.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 873
Exploiting Natural Killer Cell Engagers to Control Pediatric B-cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Colomar-Carando Natalia , Gauthier Laurent , Merli Pietro , Loiacono Fabrizio , Canevali Paolo , Falco Michela , Galaverna Federica , Rossi Benjamin , Bosco Frédéric , Caratini Mélody , Mingari Maria Cristina , Locatelli Franco , Vivier Eric , Meazza Raffaella , Pende Daniela
Published: January 2022

Natural killer (NK) cells represent a promising cell type in antitumor immunotherapy for efficacy and safety, particularly in the treatment of hematologic malignancies. NK cells have been shown to exert antileukemia activity in the context of haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT). Products have been developed to boost the activation of NK cells only when cross-linked by tumor cells, avoiding any off-target effect. Here, we tested the in vitro effect of different NK-cell engagers (NKCE), which trigger either NKp46 or NKp30 together with CD16A, and target either CD19 or CD20 to induce killing of pediatric B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL). Target cells were NALM-16 and MHH-CALL-4 cell lines and four primary leukemias, while effector cells were resting NK cells derived from healthy donors and pediatric patients with leukemia after αβT/B-depleted haplo-HSCT. The NK cell–resistant MHH-CALL-4 was efficiently killed using all NKCEs. Boosting of NK activity against MHH-CALL-4 was also evident by degranulation and IFNγ production. Because of the lack of CD20 and high expression of CD19 on primary BCP-ALL, we focused on NKCEs targeting CD19. NKp46- and NKp30-based NKCEs displayed similar potency at inducing NK-cell activity, even when challenged with primary BCP-ALL blasts. Their efficacy was shown also using NK cells derived from transplanted patients. NKCE-induced activation against BCP-ALL can override HLA-specific inhibitory interactions, although the strongest response was observed by the alloreactive NK-cell subset. These data support the therapeutic use of NKp46/CD16A/CD19-NKCE to fight refractory/relapsed leukemia in pretransplantation or posttransplantation settings.
Translational Science, DNA Commercialization, and Informed Consent: The Need for Specific Terminology, Insights from a Review of H3Africa Projects
Authors: Marshall Patricia , Royal Charmaine D.M. , Chadwick Ruth
Published: January 2022

In the past decade, there has been an acceleration in genomic research, its applications, and its translation into healthcare products and services for the benefit of public health. These advances are critical to realizing the potential of genomic research for facilitating improved health and disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Despite its tremendous opportunities, the dynamic and increasingly global landscape of genomic research commercialization has been accompanied by a variety of ethical challenges and concerns. The potential for unauthorized use of DNA samples from African people to develop a DNA chip amplifies discussion on the meanings, implications, and impacts of commercialization, benefit sharing, and appropriate consent in genomic research. Leadership of the Human Heredity and Health in Africa (H3Africa) Consortium convened a panel of experts to review research ethics practices employed in H3Africa Consortium projects and make recommendations regarding commercialization. Eighteen investigators submitted documents for projects involving data sharing and use of genetic information. A total of 39 informed consent documents associated with the 18 projects were reviewed. All 18 projects specified that samples would be used in future research. Less than half of the projects included language noting that samples could be used in drug or product development, that DNA samples would not be sold, and that profits would not be shared with participants. Four projects referred to commercialization. Analysis of information included in consent documents contributed to the development of a Commercialization Typology. The Typology identifies factors to consider regarding acceptability of particular instances of commercialization. DNA samples for translational research in product development require a transparent commercialization framework to inform the consent process.
Malaysian Version of the Sniffin’ Sticks Identification Smell Test: Cutoff Points of Hyposmia
Authors: Husain Salina , Hamid Irfan Affandi , Zahedi Farah Dayana , Wan Hamizan Aneeza Khairiyah
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Cultural backgrounds can influence the smell test because of the unfamiliarity of different populations with a number of odorants. The study aims to determine the cutoff points for hyposmia using the cultural adaptation of the Malaysian version of the Sniffin’ Sticks identification smell test among different age groups. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, healthy participants were recruited from a hospital, senior citizen homes, and schools from 2019 until 2021. Participants were divided into 5 different age groups (A: children, B: adolescents, C: young adults, D: middle-aged adults, and E: older adults) and underwent the identification smell test. Scores below the 10th percentile in these age groups were used to determine the cutoff points for hyposmia. Results: The cutoff points for the smell identification scores for hyposmia at the 10th percentile in children, adolescents, and adults (young, middle-aged, and older) were less than 6, 9, and 11, respectively. Pairwise comparisons were made using the Bonferroni post hoc test, with p < 0.001. Scores showed a significant difference between males (mean [SD]: 11.43 [2.42]) and females (12.01 [1.98]); p = 0.005. Conclusion: Our study found that the cutoff points of the identification smell test for hyposmia were lower than those of other studies. It is important to use these cutoff points in our population to establish the correct integrity of olfaction function in the clinic setting and in future research.
Therapeutic Anticoagulation in the Presence of a High-Grade Abdominal Solid Organ Injury: A Challenging Case to Manage – Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Alabboudi Yousif Habib , Salman Alaa Haitham , El Tayeb Yousif Hussein , Yammahi Ali Khammas
Published: January 2022

There are well-established protocols for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in many patients with a variety of medical and surgical conditions. However, no studies have been published regarding therapeutic anticoagulation in polytrauma patients, who usually present with multiple injuries including vascular injuries and solid organ injuries, which would require therapeutic anticoagulation that increases the risk of bleeding from abdominal solid organ injuries. Here, we present the case of a 45-year-old male, who had a motor vehicle collision and was found to have a grade III splenic injury and had to be started on therapeutic anticoagulation due to popliteal artery injury repair. Our patient was anticoagulated with low-molecular-weight heparin. He had no bleeding complications, and his splenic injury was successfully managed nonoperatively.
Foi lá no Candeal que plantei a minha mata. Um culto familiar a Ogum. Salvador c. 1813-c.1970
Authors: Castillo Lisa Earl
Published: January 2022

No Candeal Pequeno, bairro popular da cidade do Salvador, há um altar dedicado ao orixá Ogum, que, segundo a memória oral, foi estabelecido por um próspero casal de africanos, senhores de muitas terras e fundadores do bairro. O presente texto reconstrói a trajetória da família e do seu envolvimento no culto a Ogum, identificando influências étnicas heterogêneas que variaram ao longo do tempo. Depois, o texto discute o papel desse orixá entre diferentes povos da região do Golfo do Benim e sua importância para lavradores, atividade principal do casal e de várias gerações de seus descendentes. O caso individual da família fornece insumos importantes sobre o envolvimento de africanos libertos na lavoura e sobre as influências mútuas entre grupos étnicos africanos no âmbito religioso no Brasil e na África.
De aldeias a engenhos: aforamentos em terras indígenas nos Campos dos Goytacazes (1770-1800)
Authors: Machado Marina Monteiro , Motta Marcia Maria Menendes
Published: January 2022

Nos últimos vinte anos, uma nova geração de investigadores tem se dedicado a discutir as escalas de direitos de propriedades que configuraram a ocupação colonial nas Américas. Desde os estudos produzidos nos anos 1990, as pesquisas têm procurado deslindar a dinâmica de apropriação territorial, a partir de um conceito-chave do direito civil luso-brasileiro. Nesse sentido, o presente artigo analisa o instituto enfitêutico ou os aforamentos das terras, em sua relação com os problemas de percepção da concentração fundiária em Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, em fins do século XVIII. Para tanto, analisa-se o conturbado processo histórico de desparecimento dos direitos dos grupos indígenas sobre aquelas terras e a operacionalização da enfiteuse e seus foros como forma de constituir um direito de propriedade do detentor do domínio direto.
Os poemas homéricos nos manuais de História Antiga: autoria, autoridade sobre o passado e o mito das origens da sociedade grega antiga
Authors: Oliveira Gustavo Junqueira Duarte
Published: January 2022

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar como os poemas homéricos são abordados como fontes históricas nos manuais de História Antiga. Inicialmente, apresenta-se um contexto de transformações da maneira como se compreendem os processos de composição poética oral. Em seguida, discute-se as transformações ligadas à compreensão da noção de autoria. Em cada um dos manuais selecionados, a repercussão dessas ideias nas interpretações sobre o papel dos poemas como fontes para a História da Grécia é investigada, constatando-se uma grande diversidade de propostas de datação dos poemas. Por fim, pretende-se demonstrar como há uma tendência de tomar Homero não apenas como o autor da Ilíada e da Odisseia, mas como uma autoridade sobre uma temporalidade quase mítica, que estaria na origem da sociedade grega histórica.
Alegorias de uma guerra poética: figuras da autoridade na França do século XVII
Authors: Sá Luiz César de
Published: January 2022

Na França do século XVII, consolida-se o entendimento de que as “querelas” são o mecanismo privilegiado de instituição da autoridade letrada. Escritos propondo disputas galantes, que enalteciam a violência verbal em contraposição aos horrores da guerra, disseminam-se até fundamentar um gênero discursivo específico. Este artigo se volta para a análise das relações entre autoridade e controvérsia assim fundamentadas a partir do estudo da Nouvelle Allégorique (1658), texto que alegoriza os conflitos letrados de seu tempo com o objetivo principal de arquivar o próprio ato de querelar.
Nomes antigos, caracteres modernos: tradição retórico-poética e modernidade literária em Machado de Assis
Authors: Salomon Raquel Machado Gonçalves Campos
Published: January 2022

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar o modo como Machado de Assis se apropriou da tradição retórico-poética, reescreveu e atualizou gêneros poéticos tradicionais – em particular, a tragédia clássica – por meio do emprego da antonomásia. O escritor lançou mão desse procedimento retórico, que produz uma dupla nomeação da personagem, ao longo de toda a carreira, nos mais diversos gêneros que praticou. Analisando sua ocorrência em três contos – “Virginius: narrativa de um advogado” (1864), “O que são as moças” (1866) e “Pílades e Orestes” (1903), pretendo demonstrar as modificações por que passou a relação contraditória entre tradição retórico-poética e modernidade literária em Machado de Assis. Na segunda fase de sua obra, diferentemente do que ocorrera na primeira, os caracteres modernos foram tomados como herdeiros legítimos dos nomes antigos. Servindo-se dos nomes da tragédia para traduzir a história de personagens contemporâneas, Machado de Assis rompeu com a separação dos estilos, própria do regime retórico-poético, e demonstrou sua plena adesão ao conceito moderno de literatura.
Dossiê autoria e autoridade entre antigos e modernos - Apresentação
Authors: Sá Luiz César de , Condilo Camila
Published: January 2022

O tema deste dossiê sugere uma série de questões voltadas para os processos de escrita e o papel dos que escrevem, sobretudo as inscritas nas relações entre autoria e autoridade. São exemplos disso a discussão sobre uma possível dimensão transcendental, legitimadora e incontestável de autoridade ou o debate acerca da existência de uma genialidade criativa inata, apenas dois dos variados problemas que permitem explorar a perspectiva de que atribuir um texto a uma identidade individual não é o suficiente para que se forme autoria, não sendo igualmente possível admitir a categoria “autor” em chave essencialista, pois são muitos os resíduos semânticos depositados nela.
Identifying scientific publications countrywide and measuring their open access: The case of the French Open Science Barometer (BSO)
Authors: Chaignon Lauranne , Egret Daniel
Published: January 2022

We use several sources to collect and evaluate academic scientific publication on a country-wide scale, and we apply it to the case of France for the years 2015–2020, while presenting a more detailed analysis focused on the reference year 2019. These sources are diverse: databases available by subscription (Scopus, Web of Science) or open to the scientific community (Microsoft Academic Graph), the national open archive HAL, and databases serving thematic communities (ADS and PubMed). We show the contribution of the different sources to the final corpus. These results are then compared to those obtained with another approach, that of the French Open Science Barometer for monitoring open access at the national level. We show that both approaches provide a convergent estimate of the open access rate. We also present and discuss the definitions of the concepts used, and list the main difficulties encountered in processing the data. The results of this study contribute to a better understanding of the respective contributions of the main databases and their complementarity in the broad framework of a countrywide corpus. They also shed light on the calculation of open access rates and thus contribute to a better understanding of current developments in the field of open science.
Morphological and molecular evidence of eight new species of the genus Scaptodrosophila Duda (Diptera, Drosophilidae) from China
Authors: PENG HONGEN , LIN YONG , CHEN HONGWEI
Published: January 2022

By integrating morphological and molecular evidences, seven new species of the Scaptodrosophila coracina species group and one new species of uncertain affinity to this genus from China are recognized and described: S. angustifolia sp. nov., S. apunctata sp. nov., S. latifoliacea sp. nov., S. longiciliata sp. nov., S. melanovittata sp. nov., S. polytricapillum sp. nov., S. undulata sp. nov. and S. curvata sp. nov. A key to the examined species is provided. Intra- and interspecific, pairwise p-distances with DNA barcodes (partial sequences of the mitochondrial COI, i.e., cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene) are calculated and summarized. In addition, S. zebrina Liu & Chen, 2018 from Yunnan, China is recognized as junior homonym of S. zebrina (Bezzi, 1928) and renamed as S. zebromyia nom. nov.
Two axiidean ghost shrimps (Crustacea: Decapoda) from India, Guyanacaris keralam sp. nov. (Axiidae) and Paragourretia galathea (K. Sakai, 2017) (Ctenochelidae)
Authors: PADATE VINAY P. , CUBELIO SHERINE SONIA , TAKEDA MASATSUNE
Published: January 2022

Ghost shrimps collected from the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone by the Fishery Oceanographic Research Vessel Sagar Sampada during two cruises in the eastern (105 metres depth) and southeastern Arabian Sea (101 and 326 metres depth) were studied. One male, identified as Guyanacaris keralam sp. nov. of the Axiidae, differs from its congeners in the unique armature of the rostrum, gastric region of carapace, pleonal pleural margins, dorsal margins of cheliped fingers, ventral margin of second pereopod merus, and lateral margins of telson; the presence of corneous spines on the propodi and dactyli of third and fourth pereopods, and the relative sizes of the ocular peduncles, antennular peduncle, scaphocerite and cheliped fingers. Guyanacaris K. Sakai, 2011 is re-diagnosed based on the presence of short supraocular spine and post-cervical carina on carapace, dentate margins of first two pleonal pleura, third to fifth pleura with angular to straight posterior margins, antennal scaphocerite with mesial spine at base, and presence of male first pleopod 1. Bruceaxius thailandensis K. Sakai, 2015 is tentatively retained in Bruceaxius K. Sakai, 2011, owing to absence of mesial spine at the base of scaphocerite, tuberculate upper margins of carpus, propodus and dactylus of major cheliped, and tri-segmented appendix masculina on male second pleopod. In addition, two males, diagnosed herein as Paragourretia galathea (K. Sakai, 2017) of the Ctenochelidae, differ from the holotype female only in the relative length of the terminal antennular article and the presence of a distomedian spinule on the telson, of all the features.
A new species of the genus Claassenia (Plecoptera: Perlidae) from China
Authors: XIANG YA-NAN , HUO QING-BO , DU YU-ZHOU
Published: January 2022

A new species, Claassenia qingzanga Xiang, Huo & Du, sp. nov. is described from Tibet and Qinghai Province of western China, this is the first record of Claassenia in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Males of the new species are brachypterous, the apex of the aedeagus with tiny spines dorsally and with dense protrusion laterally. The new species is compared to all regional Claassenia.
Climatic Effects of the Indian Ocean Tripole on the Western United States in Boreal Summer
Authors: Zhang Yazhou , Li Jianping , Hou Zhaolu , Zuo Bin , Xu Yidan , Tang Xinxin , Wang Hao
Published: January 2022

The Indian Ocean tripole (IOT) is an independent mode of ocean–atmosphere circulation centered on the tropical Indian Ocean. This study explores the physical mechanisms of the IOT affecting the western United States climate variation during the boreal summer. We find that the IOT is significantly correlated with both western United States summer surface temperature and precipitation anomalies. During positive IOT events, the westerly wind anomalies over the northern Indian Ocean are intensified by two cross-equator airflows over the tropical eastern Indian Ocean and the east coast of Africa. The resulting convergence of air over the northern Bay of Bengal–Indochina Peninsula–northern South China Sea (NBB–IP–NSCS) region (15°–25°N, 80°–125°E) exacerbates the surplus precipitation there. Serving as a heat source, these NBB–IP–NSCS precipitation anomalies can excite a circumglobal teleconnection (CGT)-like pattern that propagates eastward from west-central Asia toward North America along the Asia subtropical westerly jet, further influencing local circulation anomalies. Development of strong anticyclonic circulation over the western United States enhances descending motion and divergence there, resulting in negative precipitation anomalies. This circulation anomaly also induces the diabatic heating anomalies through allowing more solar radiation to reach the ground surface, further increasing the surface temperature anomalies. Meanwhile, the increased tropospheric temperature also raises local surface temperatures by modulating the adiabatic air expansion and compression. Ultimately, the CGT-like pattern associated with NBB–IP–NSCS precipitation anomalies sets up an atmospheric bridge by which the IOT can impact summer climate in the western United States.
Quantifying the Effect of Rainfall and Visibility Conditions on Road Traffic Travel Time Reliability
Authors: Mathew Sonu , Pulugurtha Srinivas S.
Published: January 2022

This research explores a data-driven methodological framework to quantify the effect of rainfall and visibility on travel time reliability (TTR) by considering selected road segments in North Carolina. The framework includes capturing, processing, and integrating weather-related information and travel time data for the selected road segments. Various TTR indices were computed for the selected road segments under different rainfall and visibility ranges by day of the week (DOW) and time of the day (TOD). The TTR indices were computed for one week before and after (same DOW and TOD) under the normal weather condition and compared with those obtained under different intensities of rainfall and visibility. The variability in travel time patterns due to other events is expected to be marginal when considering the same DOW and TOD for comparison purposes. The results indicate that poor visibility with different rainfall intensities has the maximum adverse effect on the TTR. The outcomes from the data-driven methodological framework help the transportation planners in developing weather-responsive traffic management strategies and assessing their effectiveness using TTR indices.

Significance Statement

Travel time reliability (TTR) generally refers to the level of consistency or dependability in transportation service. It is considered as a measure of road operational performance. Ensuring higher levels of reliability is critical for efficient transportation system management along with mobility and accessibility needs. However, factors such as weather condition have a negative effect on the TTR. A data-driven methodological framework is proposed by integrating weather information and travel time data to quantify the effect of common weather conditions like rainfall and visibility on the TTR. The results indicated that heavy rain and poor visibility have an adverse effect on the TTR. These results are useful for agencies to better manage the traffic under different weather conditions.
The Prognostic Value of C-Reactive Protein/Albumin Ratio in Acute Mesenteric Ischemia
Authors: Kaçer İlker , Çağlar Ahmet , Akıllı Nazire Belgin
Published: January 2022

Background

Diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) in its early stages is important for reversing ischemic damage. The CRP to albumin (CRP/Alb) ratio has been defined as an inflammatory indicator and is associated with the severity of inflammation and mortality rates. However, the prognostic value of CRP/Alb has not been evaluated in patients with AMI. Here, we aimed to examine the prognostic significance of CRP/Alb and compare it with other inflammatory markers.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective, case-control study, we included patients diagnosed with AMI at the emergency department between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2020. In addition to demographic characteristics, lactate, D-dimer, white blood cell (WBC), CRP/Alb, and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were recorded. Testing characteristics of CRP/Alb in predicting in-hospital mortality were studied.

Results

The mean age of 132 patients was 66.48 ± 15.95 years and 71 (53.8%) of them were male. The cut-off value obtained using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for in-hospital mortality was a CRP/Alb ratio of >1.32 (sensitivity, 93.65%; specificity, 69.57%; +LR, 3.08; −LR, .091; AUC, .782; 95% CI, .70-.85; P < .0001). The comparison of ROC curves between CRP/Alb and WBC, NLR, and lactate revealed a statistically significant difference ( P < .05), whereas there was not any statistically significant difference between the ROC curves of CRP/Alb and D-dimer ( P = .47).

Conclusion

C-reactive protein/albumin ratio is a powerful predictor of in-hospital mortality for AMI patients. It was superior to WBC, NLR, and lactate. It could be used to determine low-risk patients and help clinicians with treatment options.
The Impact of Hyperuricemia on Patients With Low Body Mass Index After Endovascular Treatments: Data From the I-PAD Registry
Authors: Nagae Ayumu , Ebisawa Soichiro , Saigusa Tatsuya , Nishikawa Ken , Fujimori Koki , Yui Hisanori , Maruyama Shusaku , Nakamura Chie , Kashiwagi Daisuke , Kobayashi Hideki , Sakai Takahiro , Senda Keisuke , Kato Tamon , Miura Takashi , Okada Ayako , Motoki Hirohiko , Kuwahara Koichiro
Published: January 2022

We investigated the prognostic effects of hyperuricemia and high or low body mass index (BMI) in peripheral artery disease (PAD) after endovascular therapy (EVT). Between July 2015–2016, 357 consecutive patients with PAD who underwent EVT were enrolled. Patients were divided into 2 groups: BMI < 25 kg/m2 (low BMI) and ≥ 25 kg/m2 (high BMI); they were also divided into 2 more groups based on the presence/absence of hyperuricemia. The primary and secondary endpoints were major adverse cardiovascular and limb events (MACLE), and all-cause death at 3 years post-EVT. Patients with hyperuricemia had significantly lower freedom from MACLE than patients without hyperuricemia at 3 years (57.0 vs 71.9%, p = .0068). The overall survival of patients with hyperuricemia was significantly lower than that of patients without hyperuricemia (63.9 vs 81.7%, p = .0012). Patients with hyperuricemia who had low BMI experienced significantly lower freedom from MACLE than those without hyperuricemia who had low BMI (48.2 vs 69.9%, p = .002). The overall survival of patients with hyperuricemia who had low BMI was significantly lower than that of patients without hyperuricemia who had low BMI (55.2 vs 77.1%, p = .003). Patients with hyperuricemia had significantly more MACLE and a lower survival at 3 years than patients without hyperuricemia, even if they had a low BMI.
The Politics of Infrastructure in Inner-City Communities in Kingston, Jamaica, From 1962 to 2020
Authors: Altink Henrice
Published: January 2022

The “politics of infrastructure” reproduces inequality, leaving many urban residents without access to water, sanitation, and other basic services. Inner-city residents in Kingston, the capital of Jamaica, have long coped with poor drainage and waste collection that increases flood and health risks. Drawing upon a wide range of sources, this study examines how a system of patronage and partisan politics in Jamaica has helped to (re)produce this infrastructural deficit that has harmful effects on many inner-city residents, from independence in 1962 to the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season, the busiest on record. In doing so, it will enhance understanding of the nature of Jamaican politics at the local level, highlighting that politics of the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation (KSAC)—the municipal council—was marked by a continuous interaction between citizens, councilors, MPs, and civil servants, and that short-term jobs and contracts were the most important avenues of patronage
Efficacy of pulsed electromagnetic field on pain and physical function in patients with low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sun Xin , Huang Liyi , Wang Lu , Fu Chenying , Zhang Qing , Cheng Hongxin , Pei Gaiqin , Wang Yang , He Chengqi , Wei Quan
Published: January 2022

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) on pain and physical function in patients with low back pain.

Data sources

A search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science was conducted up to December 2021.

Methods

We included randomized controlled trials that investigated the effectiveness of PEMF in patients with low back pain. The primary outcome was pain intensity and the secondary outcome was physical function, both were evaluated by assessment scales. Standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for the summary statistics analysis. The registration number of this systematic review in PROSPERO is CRD42020213829.

Results

Fourteen trials involving 618 participants were included. The PEMF treatment showed more significant pain alleviation than placebo or other therapy alone in patients with low back pain (SMD = −1.01, 95% CI −1.42 to −0.6, P < 0.001, I2 = 31%; SMD = −0.36, 95% CI −0.62 to −0.11, P = 0.005, I2 = 37%, respectively.) In addition, a significant difference in pain alleviation was observed in patients with chronic low back pain (SMD = −0.6, 95%CI − 0.94 to −0.25, p < 0.001, I2 = 67%), whereas no significant difference was observed in patients with acute low back pain (SMD = −0.46, 95%CI − 0.99 to 0.07, p = 0.09, I2 = 0%). PEMF did not improve physical function compared with the control treatment (SMD = −0.45, 95% CI − 0.98 to 0.07, p = 0.09, I2 = 86%).

Conclusion

PEMF is beneficial for alleviating pain in patients with chronic low back pain despite having no advantage in improving physical function.
Effects of the timing and intensity of treatment on septic shock patients treated with CytoSorb®: Clinical experience
Authors: Berlot Giorgio , Samola Valentina , Barbaresco Ilaria , Tomasini Ariella , di Maso Vittorio , Bianco Francesco , Gerini Ugo
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

A group of adult septic shock patients treated with hemoperfusion (HA) with the Cytosorb® associated with CVVHD were studied to determine (a) the effects of this technique on different clinical variables; and (b) the impact of the pre CytoSorb® interval and its intensity on the outcome.

Methods:

The catecholamine index (CI) and the pressure-catecholamine Index (PCAI) were used to assess the amount of catecholamine administered at baseline and during the procedure, respectively. The pre-treatment time was calculated since the onset of the septic-shock related hypotension and the initiation of the first session and the intensity was assessed considering either the total volume of blood processed and the duration of the HA.

Results:

Overall, 51 patients with septic shock (30 m, 21 f), age 68 years (IQR 59–76) were retrospectively enrolled in the study; 26 were discharged alive form the ICU (S) and 25 died in ICU (NS); in the S group either CI and PCAI decreased significantly but in NS the CI increased and the PCAI remained stable in NS. In S, the time elapsing from the onset of symptoms and the start of Cytosorb® was shorter than in NS; the duration of the treatment and the volume of blood processed were significantly higher in S than in NS.

Conclusions:

In this group of septic shock patients, the earlier initiation of Cytosorb®, its longer duration and the higher volume of blood processed were associated with a better survival.
CAR Peer Learning Guide
Authors: Torres Felipe Soares , Costa Andreu F. , Kagoma Yoan K. , Arrigan Martin , Scott Malcolm , Yemen Brian , Hurrell Casey , Kielar Ania
Published: January 2022

Peer learning is a quality initiative used to identify potential areas of practice improvement, both on a patient level and on a systemic level. Opportunities for peer learning include review of prior imaging studies, evaluation of cases from multidisciplinary case conferences, and review of radiology trainees’ call cases. Peer learning is non-punitive and focuses on promoting life-long learning. It seeks to identify and disseminate learning opportunities and areas for systems improvement compared to traditional peer review. Learning opportunities arise from peer learning through both individual communication of cases reviewed for routine work, as well as through anonymous presentation of aggregate cases in an educational format. In conjunction with other tools such as root cause analysis, peer learning can be used to guide future practice improvement opportunities. This guide provides definitions of terms and a synthetic evidence review regarding peer review and peer learning, as well as medicolegal and jurisdictional considerations. Important aspects of what makes an effective peer learning program and best practices for implementing such a program are presented. The guide is intended to be a living document that will be updated regularly as new data emerges and peer learning continues to evolve in radiology practices.
Investigation of crack detection properties of elastomer-based nanocomposites under cyclic strain loading with graphene and carbon black interaction filler
Authors: Kasim Hasan , Boztoprak Yalçın , Yazici Murat
Published: January 2022

In this study, the synergistic effect created by adding Graphene (GE) nanoplatelets and carbon black (CB) fillers to the rubber matrix was used to determine the high stretchable sensor properties. GE and CB-filled rubber nanocomposite (HcN) strain sensors have been shown to detect and trace crack initiation and crack propagation of different sizes under cyclic loading. Tests were performed with four different crack sizes (0, 2.5, 5, and 10 mm) at five different strain levels (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) to determine the strain sensing performance of the specimens. The electrical response of HcNs under loading was measured with the four-point probe technique and recorded with a high-performance data acquisition system. The progression of external cracks created by scalpel on HcNs was examined by measuring electrical resistance changes caused by cyclic strain loading between 0% and 20%. The electrical response of 4 phr and 8 phr filled HcNs behaved qualitatively similar to each other, while 1 phr filled HcNs showed a significantly different response in terms of quality and quantity. In 4 phr GE-filled specimens, the resistance increase was changed steadily depending on the crack length, and unstable conditions occurred at 5 and 10 mm crack lengths at 1 and 8 phr GE filler ratios. The flexible and stretchable elastomer-based conductive strain sensing sensors, developed with the synergistic interaction of well-dispersed carbon-based fillers in the matrix, can detect and record damaged conditions caused by cyclic loading in many application areas.
Thermal behavior of a double cone synchronizer with carbon friction lining – verification and validation of 2D thermo-mechanical simulations by temperature measurements
Authors: Stockinger Ulrich , Pflaum Hermann , Voelkel Katharina , Stahl Karsten
Published: January 2022

Synchronizers are important machine elements in gearboxes used in cars and trucks. A continuous demand for higher power density in transmissions increases the load requirements on these components. Modern Carbon friction linings can significantly improve the performance of synchronizers, but the low thermal conductivity of these materials results in high friction surface temperatures that can both damage the friction lining and lubricant. Using double cone synchronizers can further increase the power density, but the thermal loads as well. Understanding the thermal behavior of a synchronizer is important in order to improve its performance. This paper presents a 2D thermo-mechanical FEM model to calculate the temperature distribution in a double cone synchronizer. Extensive temperature measurements verify and validate the model. Practical guidelines for measuring temperatures in synchronizers are provided. The simulated temperatures correlate well with the measurements. Several parameters that influence the maximum temperature are analyzed, such as load parameters, different simulation approaches, position of temperature sensors, sensor time delay, and the influence of material properties. Measurements in combination with simulations demonstrate that cooling during the engagements and the friction of sliding blocks influence the temperature increase during an engagement.
Acceptability of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in China: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yuan Defu , Yin Yueqi , Chen Jianshuang , Lu Jing , Zhou Ying , Fu Gengfeng , Wang Bei
Published: January 2022

Using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the prevention of HIV infection is a popular, contemporary research topic. We retrieved PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Wanfang, CNKI, and Sinomed databases, and related websites to identify studies both in Chinese and English, which reported the acceptability of PrEP in China. A total of 3203 citations were retrieved, of which 54 were included. We found that the acceptability varied widely across the country, ranging from 19.1% to 94.6%, and the pooled estimate was 66.8% (95% CI: 62.0%–71.3%). Higher acceptability of PrEP was associated with the following factors: individuals with a lower educational degree, higher income, non-discriminatory attitude towards AIDS or AIDS patients, self-perceived high HIV risk, feeling that PrEP should be promoted, familiarity with PrEP, history of HIV testing, history of anal intercourse, consistent condom use, higher number of sexual partners. The main reasons for not using PrEP are doubting its validity, fear of potential side effects and financial burden, and fear of stigma for using PrEP. This review found that the acceptance in China was moderate.
Medication adherence in systemic lupus erythematosus during Brazilian COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Albuquerque Emmanuele S , Pinto Larissa dS , Neto Valfrido LdM , Fragoso Thiago S
Published: January 2022

Background

Patients with chronic diseases are potential candidates for inadequate follow-up of drug therapy, tending to incur damage to the intended results. This deserves greater attention in the pandemic period, as they are in the considered risk group.

Methods

We aim to assess Treatment Adherence Measure and analyze associations with characteristics related to the patient, treatment, disease, health professionals and service, and sociodemographic issues in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). W conducted a cross-sectional study with a sample of 116 participants, whose data were collected through individual interviews and review of medical records, during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Adherence was measured using the Treatment Adherence Measure, and associations were evidenced through described and inferential statistics.

Results

The percentage of adherent patients was 55.2%. An association was found between MTA (Medication Treatment Adherence) and physical exercise practice ( p = 0.032), and difficulties with treatment ( p = 0.002). Conclusion: Participants who did not practice physical exercise were 3.71 times more likely to not adhere to the treatment. Individuals who identified difficulties in the treatment were 3.43 times more likely to not adhere to the treatment; we believe that the pandemic may have influenced this result. More targeted studies are needed to measure the impact on MTA in these patients.
The Approach of SMEs Towards Environmental Sustainability: A Case Study
Authors: Reza Ruhena , Azmi Feza Tabassum
Published: January 2022

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play an important role in the development of the country. The study explores environmental Practices in the import- export sector in Moradabad and highlights the potential avenues for achieving environmental sustainability. Academic emphasis is needed in this field to help practitioners with guiding implementation. It is an effort to gather information about the level of responsiveness in the manufacturing sector in Moradabad based on the longitudinal field study from July 2015 through November 2016. Further, to gain an in-depth understanding, a qualitative study was conducted in the form of semi-structured interviews with HR managers responsible for environmental management in manufacturing units. The research is more objective in nature because of field observation and is not based on perception or experience. Furthermore, the research is original in nature and is undertaken to explore the role of HRM in SMEs towards environmental sustainability. The key finding as quoted by managers was that they see their firm at an awareness level and discussed that not all workers are aware of the health benefits of environmental sustainable practices in the firm, thus posing a threat to implementation. Rewards and compensation were not reported to be linked to pro-environmental behaviour or even wastage reduction done by employees, but were found to be directly linked to the revenue generated by the respective teams on an annual basis. It was further observed that environmental initiatives were a result of pressure from buyers of different countries and were not implemented categorically under Environmental HRM. Recommendations and implications for HR managers are discussed at the end of the study, which rationalises the purpose behind conducting research.
Micro-Entrepreneurship: Examining the Factors Affecting the Success of Women Street Food Vendors
Authors: Tuffour Joseph Kwadwo , Oppong Michael , Nyanyofio Joseph Gerald Tetteh , Abukari Monney Forziatu , Addo Mavis Narkwor , Brako David
Published: January 2022

Previous studies on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have concentrated on their contribution to the economy, treating such businesses as aggregate and homogeneous. What is lacking is studies on micro-enterprises, especially women’s street food vending, and the factors that influence their success. This study aims to examine the context-specific factors that influence the success of women-owned street food vending businesses in the Accra Metropolis. An informal sector success framework is built to derive appropriate factors based on theoretical and empirical literature. A cross-sectional survey design is used, involving quantitative primary data collected from a sample of 300 women street food vendors. The findings of the study indicate key success determining factors such as business experience, difficulty in food preparation, difficulty in obtaining key raw material and the age of the respondents. From the results, the business characteristics of women’s experience indicate that those with longer periods of engagement in business have a greater likelihood of success. There is evidence that, the difficulty in obtaining key raw materials due to seasonal changes and limited access to storage facilities, however, translates into limited opportunities for the success of these women-owned street food businesses. Capital constraints do not seem important in determining the success of food vending micro-enterprises, thus not supporting the resource-based theory of business growth. In terms of individual socio-cultural characteristics, the study again revealed that married street food vendors are constrained by family and community responsibilities, hindering the full realization of business growth. The results show that the age of the women in the business is a relevant success factor. This is the first study in Ghana to show that the individual, family and community features of women influence the success of micro-enterprises. The findings of this study provide useful information for policymakers to address the relevant constraints faced by these women vendors by minimizing the difficulty in getting key raw materials, which is sometimes due to financial and seasonal factors.
Deletion in Exon-20 of ABCA12 Gene Causing Harlequin Ichthyosis
Authors: Ankur Kumar , Prasad Aparna , Bhardwaj Ramji , Rahmani Manazir Hasan
Published: January 2022

Harlequin ichthyosis is a rare form of congenital ichthyosis and affects 1 in 300,000 live births. Both antenatal sonography and early molecular diagnosis are essential for precise genetic counseling and prognostication. Moreover, this information will also help parents to understand the need for prenatal genetic testing for future pregnancies.
An unusual outbreak of erysipelas on a goat farm in Pennsylvania
Authors: Palm Heather A. , Thirumalapura Nagaraja R. , Boger Lore A. , Ringler Stephanie R.
Published: January 2022

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae infection and septicemia occurred in a 5-d old Boer goat found dead on a farm in western Pennsylvania. On autopsy, there was moderate, focally extensive hemorrhage along the remnants of the urachus and umbilical arteries and the apex of the urinary bladder. Microscopic examination of immunohistochemical stained tissues revealed abundant intracellular and extracellular E. rhusiopathiae antigen–positive bacilli in all tissues stained, including lung, heart, liver, skeletal muscle, kidney, and thymus. Bacteria isolated from liver and urachus were identified as E. rhusiopathiae by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and further confirmed by a PCR assay. An epidemiologic investigation was conducted via an on-farm questionnaire after the owners noted a 70% mortality rate from the 2019 kidding season. The epidemiologic investigation showed that E. rhusiopathiae, an opportunistic zoonotic organism, was introduced to the farm through a breach in biosecurity and was likely perpetuated among the resident poultry species.
Isolation of a multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli pathotype Stx2:Cnf1:Cnf2:Eae as a potential cause of hemorrhagic diarrhea and secondary septicemia in a dog
Authors: Jonker Annelize , Gouws Johan , Kapp Erick R. , Henning Alischa
Published: January 2022

Escherichia coli is a member of the family Enterobacteriaceae and is a commensal in the intestine of many animals as well as humans. Most strains are of low virulence. A dog developed vomiting and hemorrhagic diarrhea after surgery and died despite treatment. Postmortem examination revealed hemorrhagic gastroenteritis and colitis. A multidrug-resistant E. coli, with virulence factors Shiga-toxin–producing gene, stx2, eae gene, and cytotoxic necrotic factors CNF-1 and CNF-2, was isolated from internal organs. E. coli can easily acquire new genes for virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance as demonstrated by this isolate with characteristics of both enterohemorrhagic E. coli and necrotoxigenic E. coli. In addition, the isolate was resistant to all beta-lactam antibiotics tested, as well as to enrofloxacin by a disk diffusion methodology. Broth-based minimum inhibitory concentration analysis confirmed resistance to amoxicillin (>32 μg/mL), enrofloxacin (>32 μg/mL), fosfomycin (>128 μg/mL), and neomycin (>32 μg/mL). The discovery of such strains is a cause for concern given that E. coli can be shared by companion animals and their human owners.