bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photobiomodulation with low-level laser therapy for treating Achilles tendinopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Martimbianco Ana Luiza Cabrera , Ferreira Raphael Einsfeld Simões , Latorraca Carolina de Oliveira Cruz , Bussadori Sandra Kalil , Pacheco Rafael Leite , Riera Rachel
Published: March 2020

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine the benefits and harms of low-level laser therapy for Achilles tendinopathy.

Data sources:

Search strategies were conducted (from inception to February 2020) in Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Literatura Latino Americana em Ciências da Saúde e do Caribe (LILACS), Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), SPORTDiscus, ClinicalTrials.gov, World Health Organization (WHO)-ICTRP and OpenGrey databases, to retrieve all randomized controlled trials that compared laser therapy with inactive/active interventions.

Review methods:

This study was reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of bias table. Meta-analyses were performed on dependence of homogeneity, otherwise results were reported narratively. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

Results:

Four trials (119 participants) were analyzed. Laser therapy associated to eccentric exercises when compared to eccentric exercises and sham had very low to low certainty of evidence in pain and function assessment. Despite one trial favored laser therapy at two months (mean difference (MD) −2.55, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) −3.87 to −1.23), the CIs did not include important differences between groups at 3 and 13 months. The function assessment showed an improvement favoring the placebo group at one month (MD 9.19, 95% CI −16.16 to −2.23) and non-significant difference between groups at 3 and 13 months. Adverse events were poorly reported but restricted to minor events related to the exercises.

Conclusion:

The certainty of evidence was low to very low, and the results are insufficient to support the routine use laser therapy for Achilles tendinopathy.
(Re)Constructing Expertise on Resistance: What We Can Learn from Youth Mobilizing against Social Inequality
Authors: Hice Fromille Theresa , Ruiz Karina , Villalobos Roxanna , Martinez Ibañez Lesly , Mena Valeria
Published: March 2020

Historically, critical dialogue has excluded low-income communities of color and youth voices, and today academic spaces remain geographically, structurally, and intellectually inaccessible to non-academic members of our communities. Omitting the voices of young people in academic spaces reifies the assumption that expertise on resistance is legitimate only when it is taken up by credentialed actors working within educational institutions. In this article, we reflect on two feminist decolonial methods that we believe are necessary for conducting youth-centered research: (1) locating youth, or critically contextualizing demonstrations of youth agency within particular global, local, and institutional settings and (2) confronting our own insider-outsider positionalities in the research process. Theresa Hice Fromille, Roxanna Villalobos, and Valeria Mena critically analyze the community-engaged and participatory action research they have conducted in solidarity with Black and Latinx youth. Karina Ruiz and Lesly Martinez Ibañez discuss three undergraduate research programs offered in three different Hispanic Serving Institutions. Collectively, we aim to de/re-construct what it means to be a knowledge-producer in sociological research, and we advocate for scholars to recognize the political and epistemological significance of making space for youth expertise in academic spaces.
Anemia in Critically Ill Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Posthospitalization Physical Outcomes
Authors: Warner Matthew A. , Kor Daryl J. , Frank Ryan D. , Dinglas Victor D. , Mendez-Tellez Pedro , Himmelfarb Cheryl R. Dennison , Shanholtz Carl B. , Storlie Curtis B. , Needham Dale M.
Published: March 2020

Objective:

Anemia is common during critical illness and often persists after hospital discharge; however, its potential association with physical outcomes after critical illness is unclear. Our objective was to assess the associations between hemoglobin at intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital discharge with physical status at 3-month follow-up in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) survivors.

Methods:

This is a secondary analysis of a multisite prospective cohort study of 195 mechanically ventilated ARDS survivors from 13 ICUs at 4 teaching hospitals in Baltimore, Maryland. Multivariable regression was utilized to assess the relationships between ICU and hospital discharge hemoglobin concentrations with measures of physical status at 3 months, including muscle strength (Medical Research Council sumscore), exercise capacity (6-minute walk distance [6MWD]), and self-reported physical functioning (36-Item Short-Form Health Survey [SF-36v2] Physical Function score and Activities of Daily Living [ADL] dependencies).

Results:

Median (interquartile range) hemoglobin concentrations at ICU and hospital discharge were 9.5 (8.5-10.7) and 10.0 (9.0-11.2) g/dL, respectively. In multivariable regression analyses, higher ICU discharge hemoglobin concentrations (per 1 g/dL) were associated with greater 3-month 6MWD mean percent of predicted (3.7% [95% confidence interval 0.8%-6.5%]; P = .01) and fewer ADL dependencies (−0.2 [−0.4 to −0.1]; P = .02), but not with percentage of maximal muscle strength (0.7% [−0.9 to 2.3]; P = .37) or SF-36v2 normalized Physical Function scores (0.8 [−0.3 to 1.9]; P = .15). The associations of physical outcomes and hospital discharge hemoglobin concentrations were qualitatively similar, but none were statistically significant.

Conclusions:

In ARDS survivors, higher hemoglobin concentrations at ICU discharge, but not hospital discharge, were significantly associated with improved exercise capacity and fewer ADL dependencies. Future studies are warranted to further assess these relationships.
Oronasal and Oroantral Fistulas Secondary to Periodontal Disease: A Retrospective Study Comparing the Prevalence Within Dachshunds and a Control Group
Authors: Sauvé Christopher P. , MacGee Scott E. , Crowder Susan E. , Schultz Loren
Published: March 2020

The prevalence of oronasal and oroantral fistulas (ONF/OAF) was retrospectively identified in a population of dachshund patients (dachshund group) and was compared to a population of small breed dogs of significantly similar age and weight (control group). When compared with the control group, the dachshund group was significantly more likely to have an ONF/OAF ( P < .0001). The odds ratio indicates that dachshunds were 3.3 times more likely to have an ONF/OAF than individuals within the control group. This study statistically confirms previous reports and clinical observations that dachshunds are predisposed to ONF/OAFs. When ONF/OAFs are present, the maxillary canines are the most commonly affected dentition in both study groups.
Effect of chronic exposure to monocrotophos on white adipose tissue in rats and its association with metabolic dyshomeostasis
Authors: Nagaraju R , Joshi AKR , Vamadeva S , Rajini PS
Published: March 2020

Earlier, we demonstrated that chronic exposure to monocrotophos (MCP) elicits insulin resistance in rats along with increased white adipose tissue (WAT) weights. This study was carried out to delineate the biochemical and molecular changes in adipose tissues of rats subjected to chronic exposure to MCP (0.9 and 1.8 mg/kg bw/d for 180 days). Pesticide-treated rats exhibited increased fasting glucose and hyperinsulinemia as well as dyslipidemia. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha and leptin levels were elevated, while adiponectin level was suppressed in plasma of treated rats. MCP treatment caused discernable increase in the weights of perirenal and epididymal WAT. Acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase, fatty acid synthase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, lipin-1, and lipolytic activities were elevated in the WAT of MCP-treated rats. Corroborative changes were observed in the expression profile of proteins that are involved in lipogenesis and adipose tissue differentiation. Our results clearly demonstrate that long-term exposure to organophosphorus insecticides (OPIs) such as MCP has far-reaching consequences on metabolic health as evidenced by the association of adipogenic outcomes with insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, endocrine dysregulations, and dyslipidemia. Taken together, our results suggest that long-term exposure to OPI may be a risk factor for metabolic dysregulations.
Comorbid Suffering: Breast Cancer Survivors in South Africa
Authors: Bosire Edna N. , Mendenhall Emily , Weaver Lesley Jo
Published: March 2020

Cycles of chronic illness are unpredictable, especially when multiple conditions are involved, and that instability can transform “normal” everyday life for individuals and their families. This article employs a theory of “comorbid suffering” to interpret how multiple concurrent diagnoses produce webs of remarkable suffering. We collected 50 life stories from breast cancer survivors enrolled in the South Africa Breast Cancer Study. We present three women’s narratives who grapple with comorbid suffering and illness-related work, which arise interpersonally when comorbid illnesses affects social interactions. We found that women strive to create a balance between living with comorbid suffering and continuously performing routine activities amid treatment. Discrimination and isolation were underpinned by women’s fear of being rejected by their families or how their illnesses created social distance between family members and the wider community. This study therefore illustrates how comorbid suffering requires intensive family commitments amid and beyond illness.
Relationships among Self-Care Competency, Presence of Depressive Symptom, and Health-Related Quality of Life of Korean Stroke Patients
Authors: Sok Sohyune R. , Yim Eunji , Sim Hyebeen , Sim Hyun Jin
Published: March 2020

This study was to examine the self-care competency, the presence of depressive symptom, and health-related quality of life and to evaluate the correlation of these measures among 146 stroke patients in South Korea. The analyses showed that mean score of self-care competency indicates a slightly lower level of self-care competency. There showed lower levels of self-care competency in patients with no occupation, hemorrhage or infarction stroke type, both attack area and with risk-factors or other diseases such as hypertension and/or diabetes. Self-care competency had a significant, negative relation with presence of depressive symptom, while self-care competency had a significant, positive relation with health-related quality of life. In the nursing practice, nurses need to pay attention self-care competency and the related factors for better qualitive care of stroke patients. Concrete interventions and strategies to improve the self-care competency of stroke patients are needed.
My Poetic Inquiry
Authors: Wu Botao
Published: March 2020

Poetic Inquiry incorporates original poetry in academic writing, which ancient poets and scholars had been doing for thousands of years. However, it is not merely a repetition of the old tradition, but uses creative poetry in academic research in a systematic and diverse way. Poetic Inquiry is an umbrella concept to describe the various possibilities for using poetry in research. But, Poetic Inquiry is not any piece of writing with poetry in it. Poetic Inquiry harmonizes scientific research and the philosophical knowledge creation. Poetic Inquiry highlights the importance of individual expression, and generally involves poetic truth-seeking and poetical examination of inner and outer experience.
Rape Myth Acceptance Reflects Perceptions of Media Portrayals as Similar to Others, but Not the Self
Authors: Elmore Kristen C. , Scull Tracy M. , Malik Christina V. , Kupersmidt Janis B.
Published: March 2020

Understanding the antecedents and consequences of rape myths is important for sexual assault prevention programming. We investigated whether general perceptions of media predict rape myth endorsement among community college students, a group with elevated sexual assault risk. Students who perceived greater similarity between people they know and people in media reported higher endorsement of rape myths that blame the victim and exonerate the accused. This relationship did not emerge for perceptions of one’s personal similarity to people in media, with the exception of men’s endorsement of myths exonerating male perpetrators.
Genetic Variation in the TP53 Gene and Patient Outcomes Following Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Mellett Kaleigh , Ren Dianxu , Alexander Sheila , Osier Nicole , Beers Sue R. , Okonkwo David O. , Puccio Ava M. , Conley Yvette P.
Published: March 2020

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability, with more than 5 million people in the United States living with long-term complications related to TBI. This study examined the relationship between TP53, the gene that codes for the protein p53, and outcome variability following severe TBI. The p53 protein impacts neuronal apoptosis following TBI, thus investigation into TP53 genetic variability as a prognosticator for TBI outcomes (mortality, Glasgow Outcome Scale [GOS], Neurobehavioral Rating Scale [NRS], and Disability Rating Scale [DRS]) is warranted. Participants ( N = 429) with severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤8) were enrolled into a prospective study with outcomes assessed over 24 months following injury. The single-nucleotide polymorphism Arg72Pro (rs1042522), a functional missense polymorphism for which the CC homozygous genotype is most efficient at inducing apoptosis, was investigated. Individuals with the CC genotype (arginine homozygotes) were more likely to have poorer outcomes at 24 months following TBI compared to individuals with CG/GG genotypes (GOS: p = .048, DRS: p = .022). These findings add to preliminary evidence that p53 plays a role in recovery following TBI and, if further replicated, could support investigations into p53-based therapies for treating TBI.
Integrated Optical Fiber Force Myography Sensor as Pervasive Predictor of Hand Postures
Authors: Wu Yu Tzu , Gomes Matheus K , da Silva Willian HA , Lazari Pedro M , Fujiwara Eric
Published: March 2020

Force myography (FMG) is an appealing alternative to traditional electromyography in biomedical applications, mainly due to its simpler signal pattern and immunity to electrical interference. Most FMG sensors, however, send data to a computer for further processing, which reduces the user mobility and, thus, the chances for practical application. In this sense, this work proposes to remodel a typical optical fiber FMG sensor with smaller portable components. Moreover, all data acquisition and processing routines were migrated to a Raspberry Pi 3 Model B microprocessor, ensuring the comfort of use and portability. The sensor was successfully demonstrated for 2 input channels and 9 postures classification with an average precision and accuracy of ~99.5% and ~99.8%, respectively, using a feedforward artificial neural network of 2 hidden layers and a competitive output layer.
Amoral realism or just war morality? Disentangling different conceptions of necessity
Authors: Matsumoto Masakazu
Published: March 2020

This paper addresses a misconception in the popular contrast between amoral realism and just war theory and clarifies the linguistic source of the misconception by disentangling the two interpretations of necessity. First, we can, and should, distinguish the Thucydidean “causal” conception of necessity, which is the basis for just war thinkers when they attack realist thought, from the Machiavellian “telic” conception. The paper, then, proceeds to reconsider the relationship between realism and morality through a textual analysis of representative contemporary realist theories and clarifies that their necessity judgments contain both causal and telic meanings. According to those supporting the moral view, the pursuit of national interest and security can be interpreted as emerging from their sense of moral duty. Realists are, even if partially, in line with just war theorists in evaluating the moral appropriateness of a war in itself and its methods. Finally, the paper explores the substantive disagreement between the two camps regarding the principle of discrimination, to demonstrate why they should still be assumed to have separate theories. In conclusion, their difference lies in not whether they place importance on the necessity judgment, among other considerations on the morality of war, but the extent to which they do so.
Shaming the working class in post-socialist Reality Television
Authors: Reifová Irena
Published: March 2020

This article examines the ways in which working class participants are shamed in Czech Reality TV programmes. Previous research demonstrates that everyday Reality TV is an exercise in neoliberal governmentality and respective technology of the self, which advances the idea of the entrepreneurial self as a capital investment project and a brand. The article seeks to illuminate the process of stigmatisation of those who do not comply with these norms in the cultural setting of post-socialist neoliberalism. It builds on the arguments contending that neoliberal capitalism was implemented in the post-socialist part of Europe with higher momentum and stronger hegemonic power than in the West. The research looks at the acts of shaming working classes in three different Reality TV programmes as the dynamics through which class positions are moulded in a culture with a yet emerging class structure. The qualitative analysis of shaming interactions reveals that a working class position in the post-socialist cultural setting is articulated predominantly to excessive preservation of habits dating back to the period of socialism or, however, insufficient employment of the innovations and opportunities brought about by capitalism. Qualitative clustering of the targets of shaming resulted in four different types of self – marketised self, depaternalised self, unclassed self and (desperately) inegalitarian self – which the analysed Reality TV programmes endorse as the ideal facets of post-socialist personhood. The master homology between the genre of makeover reality show and post-socialism is detected as both systems are entrenched in the values of a complete overhaul of an individual or society.
Prevalence of Childhood Sexual Abuse Among Women Using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire: A Worldwide Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pan Yuli , Lin Xiujin , Liu Jianbo , Zhang Shengjie , Zeng Xuan , Chen Fenglan , Wu Junduan
Published: March 2020

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a common form of childhood maltreatment. Several studies have shown that CSA adversely affects the physical and mental health. Numerous studies have evaluated the prevalence of CSA among females using various instruments. In this meta-analysis, we estimated the rate of CSA among women using the short form of the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire for the first time. Four databases (PsycINFO, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase) were systematically searched for studies published as of April 2, 2018. Forty-eight articles (53 groups of samples) covering 22,224 individuals, including women, from 16 countries were selected. Using the random-effects model, the pooled overall rate of CSA was 24% (95% confidence interval [21%, 27%]). On subgroup analyses, the rate of female CSA in people with mental illness was higher than that in the general group; this result showed variability among different geographical regions.
Examining the Link Between Corporate Social Responsibility and Human Resources: Implications for HRD Research and Practice
Authors: Jang Soebin , Ardichvili Alexandre
Published: March 2020

This integrative literature review examines the links between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and human resources (HR). We review and closely examine three bodies of literature that discuss the CSR-HR link: (a) the CSR literature, (b) the human resource management (HRM) literature, and (c) the human resource development (HRD) literature. Our review suggests that although CSR and HR are closely interrelated, there is currently a lack of developmental perspectives underlying the CSR-HR link. Thus, based on our review of theoretical and empirical research, we point to four main areas in which HRD may play an important role in promoting CSR in organizations, including leadership development, education and training, culture change, and fostering critical reflection. Our findings underline the increasing relevance of CSR to the field of HR including HRM and HRD, and provide implications for HRD research and practice, along with recommendations for future research.
Conducting sensitivity analysis for unmeasured confounding in observational studies using E-values: The evalue package
Authors: Linden Ariel , Mathur Maya B. , VanderWeele Tyler J.
Published: March 2020

In this article, we introduce the evalue package, which performs sensitivity analyses for unmeasured confounding in observational studies using the methodology proposed by VanderWeele and Ding (2017, Annals of Internal Medicine 167: 268–274). evalue reports E-values, defined as the minimum strength of association on the risk-ratio scale that an unmeasured confounder would need to have with both the treatment assignment and the outcome to fully explain away a specific treatment-outcome association, conditional on the measured covariates. evalue computes E-values for point estimates (and optionally, confidence limits) for several common outcome types, including risk and rate ratios, odds ratios with common or rare outcomes, hazard ratios with common or rare outcomes, standardized mean differences in outcomes, and risk differences.
Potential Role of the Micro-Immunotherapy Medicine 2LALERG in the Treatment of Pollen-Induced Allergic Inflammation
Authors: Floris Ilaria , Chenuet Pauline , Togbe Dieudonnée , Volteau Christelle , Lejeune Beatrice
Published: March 2020

In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of a micro-immunotherapy medicine (MIM), 2LALERG, in a preclinical model of allergic respiratory disease sensitized with birch pollen extract (BPE). BALB/c mice were immunized with BPE, or saline solution, and were then challenged. Micro-immunotherapy medicine pillules were diluted in water, and 3 doses (0.75; 1.5; 3 mg/mouse) were tested and compared to vehicle control (3 mg/mouse). Treatments and vehicle were orally administered by gavage for 10 days. Micro-immunotherapy medicine (0.75 mg/mouse) reduced the number of total cells as well as the levels of interleukin (IL)-13 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) compared to vehicle control. Eosinophils in BALF tended to be lower compared to vehicle group, and the difference is close to significance. Histological analysis in the lungs confirms a moderate effect of MIM (0.75 mg/mice) on inflammatory infiltration and mucus production. Serum levels of IL-5 in MIM (0.75 mg/mouse)-treated mice were lower compared to vehicle; IL-4 levels tended to be lower too. Total immunoglobulin E (IgE) decreased in serum of MIM (1.5 and 0.75 mg/mouse) groups compared to vehicle control. Micro-immunotherapy medicine exerted the highest effect at the lowest dose tested. Micro-immunotherapy medicine resolved the local and systemic inflammation, even if partially, in a model of pollen-induced, IgE-mediated inflammation.
Indigeneity and the State in Indonesia: The Local Turn in the Dialectic of Recognition
Authors: Tamma Sukri , Duile Timo
Published: March 2020

When the indigenous peoples’ movement emerged in the 1990s and grew stronger in the wake of reformasi, people formally termed “backward” and “primitive” suddenly emerged as political actors. This article traces the relationship between the state and the idea of the original, sometimes referred to as the autochthonous, sometimes as the indigenous, in Indonesian history and analyses how these relationships are reflected in legislation on land issues, the major concern of recent indigenous movements. In a second step, the article deals with current political strategies of the indigenous movement (AMAN), concluding that the movement is shifting its efforts from the “centre” (national legislation), to the provinces and the margins, a process we term the “local turn” in the indigenous people’s movement in Indonesia. By drawing on the example of Enrekang, South Sulawesi, the contribution shows how peraturan dearah (local regulations) provide a basis for recognition within the margins of the Indonesian nation state.
Laminarin From Salicornia herbacea Stimulates Glucose Uptake Through AMPK-p38 MAPK Pathways in L6 Muscle Cells
Authors: Kim Ji H. , Lee Jung O. , Moon Ji W. , Kang Min J. , Byun Won S. , Han Jeong A. , Kim Su J. , Park Sun H. , Kim Hyeon S.
Published: March 2020

Laminarin is a component of brown seaweed, especially isolated from Salicornia herbacea. Laminarin was known to have various physiological functions, however, the molecular mechanism is still unclear. In this study, we report that laminarin stimulates an activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and increases glucose uptake in rat L6 myotubes. Laminarin also increases an intracellular calcium release. Inhibition of Ca2+ release, using with CaMKK inhibitor, STO-609, blocked laminarin-induced AMPK activity, indicating that laminarin stimulated AMPK activity via calcium. In addition, laminarin activates p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways depending on AMPK activity. Moreover, the inhibition of either AMPK or p38 MAPK blocked laminarin-induced glucose uptake in rat L6 myotubes. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the hypoglycemic effect of laminarin is caused by its ability to activate AMPK-p38 MAPK pathways in skeletal muscles.
α-Glucosidase Inhibitory and Glucose Uptake Stimulatory Effects of Phenolic Compounds From Dendrobium christyanum
Authors: San Htoo Tint , Boonsnongcheep Panitch , Putalun Waraporn , Mekboonsonglarp Wanwimon , Sritularak Boonchoo , Likhitwitayawuid Kittisak
Published: March 2020

A methanolic extract from the dried root of Dendrobium christyanum Rchb.f. (Orchidaceae) exhibited α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and glucose uptake stimulatory effect. Chromatographic separation of the extract led to the isolation of 13 phenolic compounds (1-13). Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis. The isolates were then evaluated for in vitro α-glucosidase inhibitory and glucose uptake stimulatory activities. Methyl haematommate (1), methyl 2,4-dihydroxy-3,6-dimethylbenzoate (3), n-docosyl 4-hydroxy- trans-cinnamate (4), coniferyl aldehyde (6), 4,5-dihydroxy-2-methoxy-9,10-dihydrophenanthrene (7), gigantol (10), and diorcinolic acid (13) showed higher α-glucosidase inhibitory activity than the drug acarbose. Moreover, n-docosyl 4-hydroxyl- trans-cinnamate (4), vanillin (5), and coniferyl aldehyde (6) could enhance glucose uptake by L6 myotubes. Compounds 4 and 6 appear to be potential hypoglycemic agents since they possess both α-glucosidase inhibitory and glucose uptake stimulatory activities. This study is the first report on the chemical constituents and antidiabetic activity of D. christyanum.
Anti-Inflammatory Constituents From Chaenomeles speciosa
Authors: Yao Liangliang , Zhu Suyou , Hu Ziyi , Chen Lin , Nisar Muhammad Farrukh , Wan Chunpeng
Published: March 2020

Phytochemical investigation of fruits of Chaenomeles speciosa Lindley (Rosaceae) led to the isolation of 20 compounds including 5 flavonoids (1-5), 5 phenylpropanoids (6-10), 3 benzoic acid derivatives (11-13), 2 phloroglucinols (14 and 15), 2 purines (16 and 17), and 3 terpenoids (18–20). Their structures were elucidated by nuclear magnetic resonance analyses and from mass spectrometry data. These compounds were confirmed as catechin (1), epicatechin (2), catechin-5- O-β-d-glucoside (3), procyanidin B1 (4), quercetin-3- O-β-d-glucoside (5), p-coumaric acid (6), ferulic acid (7), caffeic alcohol (8), 1- O-p-coumaroyl-β-d-glucose (9), 1- O-cinnamoyl-β-d-glucose (10), p-hydroxybenzonic acid (11), protocatechuic acid (12), benzoic acid-β-d-gentiobioside (13), phloracetophenone 4′-glucoside (14), 3,5-dihydroxyphenyl β-d-glucopyranoside (15), adenine (16), adenosine (17), betulalbuside A (18), vomifoliol (19), and roseoside (20). Compounds 3-5, 8, 10, and 13-18 were isolated from the genus Chaenomeles and C. speciosa for the first time. Out of all these, compound 17 showed the best anti-inflammatory properties, comparable with those of the already known minocycline.
Using the Importance for Survival Scale to Identify Preferred Nature Scenes With Restorative Potential: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Thake Carol L. , Bambling Matthew , Edirippulige Sisira , Marx Eric
Published: March 2020

Background:

Evidence supports the use of images of nature scenes in healthcare settings to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. However, the literature is diverse and provides no integrated system to identify nature scenes that provide most therapeutic benefit.

Objective:

The current study aimed to validate and extend results of a correlational study that found the Importance for Survival Scale (IFSS) useful for selecting generally preferred nature scenes with therapeutic potential.

Methods:

The correlational study that tested the usefulness of the IFSS and the current qualitative study were components of a larger mixed-methods study. For the current study, general community participants ( N = 20 males, 20 females; mean age = 48 years) provided verbal responses to questions about thoughts and feelings associated with a selection of photographs of nature scenes. Data were analyzed using a content analysis approach.

Results:

Themes and detailed descriptors associated with preference for, and emotional response to, most- and least-liked nature scenes were produced. A proportion of those themes is directly related to the construct of Importance for Survival (IFS), whereas other themes are better explained by alternative theoretical perspectives.

Conclusions:

Results uphold the IFSS as an effective tool for identifying generally preferred nature scenes with restorative potential, and provide information about the relative importance of IFSS subscales that may be used to further develop and refine the IFSS, as well as guide selection of restorative nature scenes. Results also provide fine-scaled descriptive information about preference for and emotional response to nature scenes.
Life expectancy after pulmonary endarterectomy for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: a Swedish single‐center study
Authors: Kallonen Janica , Glaser Natalie , Bredin Fredrik , Corbascio Matthias , Sartipy Ulrik
Published: March 2020

Pulmonary endarterectomy is the guideline recommended treatment for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, in addition to life‐long anticoagulation therapy. The aim was to analyze long‐term relative survival after pulmonary endarterectomy for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. We included all patients who underwent pulmonary endarterectomy for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension at Karolinska University Hospital between 1997 and 2018 (n = 100). We obtained baseline characteristics and vital status from patient charts and national health‐data registers. The expected survival from the general Swedish population matched by age, sex, and year of surgery was obtained from the Human Mortality Database. The relative survival was used as an estimate of cause‐specific mortality. The mean age of the patients was 62 years and 39% were women. Most patients were severely symptomatic (95% in New York Heart Association functional class III–IV), and mean preoperative systolic/diastolic (mean) pulmonary artery pressure was 78/27 (45) mmHg. The mean and maximum follow‐up time was 7.2 and 22.1 years, respectively. Early (30‐day) mortality was 7%. The 15‐year observed, expected, and relative survival was 55% (95% confidence interval, 40%–68%), 71%, and 77% (95% confidence interval, 56%–95%), respectively. The 15‐year relative survival conditional on 30‐day survival was 83% (95% confidence interval, 60%–100%). Although the life expectancy following pulmonary endarterectomy was shorter compared to the general population, the difference was small in those who survived the operation and the early postoperative period. Patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension who are surgical candidates should undergo pulmonary endarterectomy to improve prognosis.
Family Demographic Transition in Saudi Arabia: Emerging Issues and Concerns
Authors: Al-Khraif Rshood , Abdul Salam Asharaf , Abdul Rashid Mohd Fadzil
Published: March 2020

A profound reduction in Saudi Arabia’s fertility rate has influenced household size and family composition, slowly and steadily. Moreover, the increasing number of never married women, marital dissolutions, women entering into the labor force, and so on has also influenced changes in Saudi Arabian families. Family demographics influence values, norms, and filial responsibilities of not only family members but also of society. Families are changing globally as a result of transitions in marriage, fertility, and livelihoods. In Islamic countries such as Saudi Arabia, studies of family demography aim to understand the emerging issues and at the same time to preserve and strengthen traditional family values. This article examines changes in fertility patterns and extends into the structure, distribution, composition, roles, and responsibility of families, taking into account changes in size, composition and distribution, and median age of families. It has found that the analyses and interpretations, in this article, need to be endorsed where those indicators discussed help identify the emerging issues of family demographic transition and changes in the family values and traditions and thus facilitate policy formulation. This study makes use of two sets of data: censuses (i.e., 1992, 2004, and 2010) and demographic surveys (i.e., 2000, 2007, and 2016).
The chaukidari force: Watchmen, police and Dalits from the 1860s to the 1920s in United Provinces
Authors: Kumar Vijay
Published: March 2020

Recruitment in the chaukidari forces under colonial police administration was an alternative to the colonial army for Dalits to get socio-political status, consciousness, ‘economic freedom’ (cash salary, rewards, lands and concessions), education and ‘civic equality’. Therefore, the chaukidari in the colonial police administration was a positive source of support for a section of Dalits, despite the limitation of numbers.
Humanistic Orientation in Firm–Stakeholder Technology-based Interaction and Its Impact on Stakeholder Satisfaction
Authors: Bhattacharyya Som Sekhar
Published: March 2020

The advent of Web 2.0-based Internet technologies coupled with mobile digital telecommunication devices have altered the landscape of interaction between a firm and its stakeholders. Increasingly firms are interacting with their stakeholders through electronic means such as group e-mails, batch Short Messaging Services (SMSs), short text posts, social networking sites, and others. This is ushering a rich era in firm–stakeholder communication occurring on real-time basis (24×7) and from anywhere. Technology-based interactions are viewed as lacking the humanistic perspective. This is especially true for such stakeholders who are differently abled, illiterate, elderly, and others who are not able to adapt to the new realities in technology-based firm–stakeholder communication. In this research, the author explored the effect of inclusion of humanistic orientation in technology-based interaction between a firm and its stakeholders. One hundred and fifty two CSR managers’ responses were considered for scale development to measure the variables, firm management engagement (FME), firm technology medium deployed (FTMD), stakeholder interaction (SI), humanistic orientation in interaction (HOI), and interactional stakeholder satisfaction (ISS) with the help of a structured questionnaire survey instrument. Furthermore, a model on ISS was developed. In the model, FME and FTMD were the antecedent variables; SI was the mediating variable; and HOI was the moderating variable with ISS as the dependent variable.
Increased mTOR activation in idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease
Authors: Arenas Daniel J. , Floess Katherine , Kobrin Dale , Pai Ruth-Anne Langan , Srkalovic Maya B. , Tamakloe Mark-Avery , Rasheed Rozena , Ziglar Jasira , Khor Johnson , Parente Sophia A. T. , Pierson Sheila K. , Martinez Daniel , Wertheim Gerald B. , Kambayashi Taku , Baur Joseph , Teachey David T. , Fajgenbaum David C.
Published: March 2020

Idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease (iMCD) is a rare and poorly understood hematologic disorder characterized by lymphadenopathy, systemic inflammation, cytopenias, and life-threatening multiorgan dysfunction. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) inhibition effectively treats approximately one-third of patients. Limited options exist for nonresponders, because the etiology, dysregulated cell types, and signaling pathways are unknown. We previously reported 3 anti-IL-6 nonresponders with increased mTOR activation who responded to mTOR inhibition with sirolimus. We investigated mTOR signaling in tissue and serum proteomes from iMCD patients and controls. mTOR activation was increased in the interfollicular space of iMCD lymph nodes (N = 26) compared with control lymph nodes by immunohistochemistry (IHC) for pS6, p4EBP1, and p70S6K, known effectors and readouts of mTORC1 activation. IHC for pS6 also revealed increased mTOR activation in iMCD compared with Hodgkin lymphoma, systemic lupus erythematosus, and reactive lymph nodes, suggesting that the mTOR activation in iMCD is not just a product of lymphoproliferation/inflammatory lymphadenopathy. Further, the degree of mTOR activation in iMCD was comparable to autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome, a disease driven by mTOR hyperactivation that responds to sirolimus treatment. Gene set enrichment analysis of serum proteomic data from iMCD patients (n = 88) and controls (n = 42) showed significantly enriched mTORC1 signaling. Finally, functional studies revealed increased baseline mTOR pathway activation in peripheral monocytes and T cells from iMCD remission samples compared with healthy controls. IL-6 stimulation augmented mTOR activation in iMCD patients, which was abrogated with JAK1/2 inhibition. These findings support mTOR activation as a novel therapeutic target for iMCD, which is being investigated through a trial of sirolimus (NCT03933904).
Assessment of ureteric diameter using contrast-enhanced helical abdominal computed tomography
Authors: Itanyi Ukamaka Dorothy , Aiyekomogbon Joshua Oluwafemi , Uduma Felix Uduma , Evinemi Matthew Abodunde
Published: March 2020

Background

Assessment of ureteric size is imperative for diagnosis of urinary tract abnormalities especially with regard to obstructive pathologies. The ureteric opacification and distension obtained from contrast-enhanced computed tomography allows for differentiation from surrounding soft tissue and better assessment of ureteric diameter. Abdominal computed tomographic scans are commonly requested for the evaluation of the urinary tract, and we therefore aim to establish a normal reference value of the ureteral diameter using contrast-enhanced computed tomographic scans of the abdomen.

Method

With the purpose of establishing our local normogram of ureteric diameter, we did a retrospective study of archived images of 170 patients referred to the radiology department of a tertiary hospital for contrast-enhanced abdominal CT from January 2016 to June 2018. The largest transverse dimension along the course of the ureter beginning 1–2 cm below the ureteropelvic junction was measured at the delayed phase and obtained data subjected to analysis using SAS software version 9.3 with statistical level of significance set at 0.05.

Result

A total number of 340 ureters in 170 patients were analyzed with the mean age of 47.9 years (range 1.0–94.0 years) and male-to-female ratio of 1.2:1. The mean left ureteric diameter of all patients was 4.3 mm (range 1.7–8.0 mm) while the mean right ureteric diameter of all patients was 4.4 mm (range 1.5–8.0 mm). Ninety-five percent of ureters in our study measured 6.9 mm and less with no significant difference in ureteric sizes across gender and ages.

Conclusion

The mean CT normogram for ureteric caliber is 4.3–4.4 mm with no significant age and gender difference and 7 mm proposed as upper limit of normal.
Human herpesvirus 8-associated colonic Kaposi’s sarcoma during vedolizumab treatment in ulcerative colitis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Papa Valerio , Giustiniani Maria Cristina , Lopetuso Loris Riccardo , Papa Alfredo
Published: March 2020

Background

Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) is a rare vascular tumor associated with human herpesvirus (HHV)-8 infection. One of the variants of KS is defined iatrogenic and is overall reported in transplanted patient but also, although less frequently, in patients treated with long-standing immunosuppressive therapy, such as in inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Case presentation

Herein, we report the first case of KS in a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative 47-year old male with UC after treatment with the α4-β7 integrin inhibitor vedolizumab (VDZ). The patient underwent to colectomy for a medical refractory disease and the histological examination of the surgical specimen showed the typical findings of KS together with the HHV-8 positivity. The patient achieved a good health status, without any sign of disease recurrence.

Conclusions

In the present case, we can assume that VDZ may have promoted the reactivation of a latent HHV-8 infection endowed with oncogenic potentialities and, in turn, the onset of KS. We also briefly reviewed all the cases of KS in HIV-negative patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
Diagnostic performance of nucleic acid tests in tuberculous pleurisy
Authors: Han Min , Xiao Heping , Yan Liping
Published: March 2020

Background

Tuberculous pleurisy (TBP) is the most common form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TB). However, rapid diagnostic methods with high accuracy for tuberculous pleurisy are urgently needed. In the present study, we evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of Xpert MTB/RIF, LAMP and SAT-TB assay with pleural fluids from culture-positive TBP patients.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 300 patients with exudative pleural effusions used as the samples for Xpert MTB/RIF, LAMP and SAT-TB assay. Of these, 265 including 223 patients diagnosed with TBP and 42 non-TBP patients used as controls were analyzed.

Results

The sensitivities of Xpert MTB/RIF (27.4%), LAMP (26.5%) and SAT-TB assay (32.3%) were significantly higher than that of pleural effusion smear (14.3%, X2 = 20.65, P <  0.001), whereas they were much lower than expected for the analysis of pleural effusion samples. Both SAT-TB assay and Xpert MTB/RIF demonstrated high specificities (100%) and PPVs (100%), but the NPVs of all of the tests were < 22%. The area under ROC curve of pleural effusion smear, LAMP, Xpert MTB/RIF and SAT-TB assays was 0.524 (95% CI 0.431–0.617), 0.632 (95% CI 0.553–0.71), 0.637 (95% CI 0.56–0.714) and 0.673 (95% CI 0.6–0.745). SAT-TB assays had the highest AUC.

Conclusion

Nucleic acid amplification tests are not the first choice in the diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy. In this type of test, SAT-TB is recommended because of its low cost, relatively more accurate compared with the other two tests. This prospective study was approved by The Ethics Committee of the Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital (approval number: K19–148).

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: ChiCTR1900026234 (Retrospectively registered). The registration date is September 28, 2019.
European women’s perceptions of the implementation and organisation of risk-based breast cancer screening and prevention: a qualitative study
Authors: Rainey Linda , van der Waal Daniëlle , Jervaeus Anna , Donnelly Louise S. , Evans D. Gareth , Hammarström Mattias , Hall Per , Wengström Yvonne , Broeders Mireille J. M.
Published: March 2020

Background

Increased knowledge of breast cancer risk factors has meant that we are currently exploring risk-based screening, i.e. determining screening strategies based on women’s varying levels of risk. This also enables risk management through primary prevention strategies, e.g. a lifestyle programme or risk-reducing medication. However, future implementation of risk-based screening and prevention will warrant significant changes in current practice and policy. The present study explores women’s perceptions of the implementation and organisation of risk-based breast cancer screening and prevention to optimise acceptability and uptake.

Methods

A total of 143 women eligible for breast cancer screening in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Sweden participated in focus group discussions. The focus group discussions were transcribed verbatim and the qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Women from all three countries generally agreed on the overall proceedings, e.g. a risk assessment after which the risk estimate is communicated via letter (for below average and average risk) or consultation (for moderate and high risk). However, discrepancies in information needs, preferred risk communication format and risk counselling professional were identified between countries. Additionally, a need to educate healthcare professionals on all aspects of the risk-based screening and prevention programme was established.

Conclusion

Women’s insights identified the need for country-specific standardised protocols regarding the assessment and communication of risk, and the provision of heterogeneous screening and prevention recommendations, monitoring the principle of solidarity in healthcare policy.
Longitudinal trajectory patterns of plasma albumin and C-reactive protein levels around diagnosis, relapse, bacteraemia, and death of acute myeloid leukaemia patients
Authors: Gradel Kim Oren , Póvoa Pedro , Garvik Olav Sivertsen , Vinholt Pernille Just , Nielsen Stig Lønberg , Jensen Thøger Gorm , Chen Ming , Dessau Ram Benny , Møller Jens Kjølseth , Coia John Eugenio , Ljungdalh Pernille Sanberg , Lassen Annmarie Touborg , Frederiksen Henrik
Published: March 2020

Background

No study has evaluated C-reactive protein (CRP) and plasma albumin (PA) levels longitudinally in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).

Methods

We studied defined events in 818 adult patients with AML in relation to 60,209 CRP and PA measures. We investigated correlations between CRP and PA levels and daily CRP and PA levels in relation to AML diagnosis, AML relapse, or bacteraemia (all ±30 days), and death (─30–0 days).

Results

On the AML diagnosis date (D0), CRP levels increased with higher WHO performance score (PS), e.g. patients with PS 3/4 had 68.1 mg/L higher CRP compared to patients with PS 0, adjusted for relevant covariates. On D0, the PA level declined with increasing PS, e.g. PS 3/4 had 7.54 g/L lower adjusted PA compared to PS 0. CRP and PA levels were inversely correlated for the PA interval 25–55 g/L (R = − 0.51, p < 10–5), but not for ≤24 g/L (R = 0.01, p = 0.57). CRP increases and PA decreases were seen prior to bacteraemia and death, whereas no changes occurred up to AML diagnosis or relapse. CRP increases and PA decreases were also found frequently in individuals, unrelated to a pre-specified event.

Conclusions

PA decrease is an important biomarker for imminent bacteraemia in adult patients with AML.