bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kickboxing with Bourdieu: Heterodoxy, hysteresis and the disruption of “race thinking”
Authors: Singh Amit
Published: February 2022

This article deploys Bourdieu’s conceptualization of habitus to examine how fighters at a Muay Thai/Kickboxing gym in East London challenge their taken-for-granted thinking about race (their racial doxa). I argue that through training to fight, people experience “hysteresis” as they find themselves within situations where their habitus – and relatedly their doxa – no longer adequately guides them. This results in a questioning of racial doxa that previously went unquestioned, which Bourdieu refers to as ‘heterodoxy’; an alternative to doxa. This article subsequently offers empirically informed theoretical insights by establishing a relationship between habitus, race and racism. It argues that the reproduction of racist thought and action is not inevitable, as people find ways to break habitual practices in their everyday life.
Meanings and expressions of co-responsibility: A small qualitative study based on the reflections from Chilean social workers involved in public-private child welfare
Authors: Andrade-Guzmán Carlos , Lombe Margaret
Published: February 2022

The study critically explores the meanings and expressions of co-responsibility based on the experience of Chilean social workers involved in public-private child welfare. It draws upon critical institutionalism to frame thematic analysis of interviews with practitioners participating in these arrangements. Results show that meanings and expressions of co-responsibility are diverse and co-exist in intervention. Some meanings are that co-responsibility is the responsibility assumed by the State as the first guarantor of rights with a private that takes responsibility for clients. It also means collaboration in a neoliberal system. Regarding expressions, it takes the form of a programmatic execution that operationalizes the rights approach. Another one is that co-responsibility expresses in individualistic performance that neglects the other colleague. Implications for critical social work practice, policy, and scholarship are discussed, based on the diversity of meanings and expressions of co-responsibility identified.
Temporal Work: The Strategic Organization of Time
Authors: Bansal Pratima (Tima) , Reinecke Juliane , Suddaby Roy , Langley Ann
Published: February 2022

Time and temporality are central to strategy and strategic management. Yet, relatively little attention has been paid to what organizational members do to shape temporal phenomena that are important for strategic outcomes. In this essay, we define temporal work as any individual, collective, or organizational effort to influence, sustain or redirect the temporal assumptions and patterns that shape strategic action, and we introduce the seven articles in this special issue that explore this concept. Building on the rich insights emerging from these articles, we show how temporal work acts on temporal assumptions by shaping perceptions and interpretations, reorients patterns through temporal structures underpinning action, and influences the value associated with time. This is achieved through various combinations of temporal talk, temporal practices and temporal objects. By focusing on the role of human agency in shaping temporal phenomena, the notion of temporal work opens up exciting opportunities for research on issues that are critical for the future of organizations and society.
Efficient reinforcement of jute fiber/epoxy composite with Nanosilica@Graphene hybrid filler
Authors: Amirabadi-Zadeh Mahnaz , Khosravi Hamed , Tohidlou Esmaeil
Published: February 2022

This study is primarily focused on the fabrication of nanosilica-decorated graphene oxide (SiO2@GNs) and its role in improving the mechanical behavior of Jute fiber/epoxy laminates. To decorate the GNs surfaces with the silica nanoparticles, tetraethyl-orthosilicate (TEOS) was used, and the successful synthesis of the SiO2@GNs nanohybrid was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). Further, the influence of adding 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 wt.% GNs or SiO2@GNs on the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and dry-sliding wear behavior of the jute fiber/epoxy composites were explored. The specimens were fabricated using the hand lay-up route. Resultantly, the 3 wt.% SiO2@GNs/jute fiber/epoxy sample showed the highest ILSS and wear resistance. The addition of 3 wt.% SiO2@GNs improved the ILSS of the jute fiber/epoxy by 62%. Besides, reductions of 50% and 78% in the wear rate and coefficient of friction, respectively, were obtained for the sample enhanced with 3 wt.% SiO2@GNs. Interestingly, the mechanical properties of the composites were found to improve significantly through the SiO2-decoration of the GNs. Finally, to find the dominant mechanisms, the fractured and worn surfaces of the composites were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
The War for Women’s Peace Archives at the New York Public Library: An Examination of Conflict in Curation and Stewardship
Authors: Stephan Weatherly A.
Published: February 2022

Archivists and donors often experience conflict when promises made during the acquisition process are vaguely defined or do not match expectations. What is the long-term impact of this conflict? And what are the best ways of navigating such conflict? This article takes as a case study the acquisition and stewardship of the Schwimmer-Lloyd Collection at the New York Public Library’s Manuscripts and Archives Division, beginning in 1940. This article explores how promises made by NYPL and expectations set by donors and upheld by collection consultant Edith Wynner impacted researcher access to the Schwimmer-Lloyd Collection both before and after its opening. Struggles over the Schwimmer-Lloyd Collection provided many lessons to NYPL archivists and administrators, and in the present day these lessons serve as poignant reminders about the importance of professional ethics and core values, namely responsible stewardship.
Snail Meat Consumption in Buea, Cameroon: The Methodological Challenges in Exploring Its Public Health Risks
Authors: Tanyitiku Mary Nkongho , Nicholas Graeme , Sullivan Jon J. , Njombissie Petcheu Igor C. , On Stephen L.W.
Published: February 2022

This paper discusses the methodological challenges in studying health risks that could arise from consuming terrestrial snails infested with pathogenic microorganisms. In Cameroon, snails remain an inexpensive protein source and are collected from free-living environments termed “farms.” Our focus has been on understanding health risks due to the handling and consumption of snails collected from locations that include decaying vegetation and untreated human and household wastes. To complement preliminary field observations and get more in-depth understanding of the existing situation, we adopted a qualitative approach using lived experiences, participant observation, in-depth interviews, and a focus group. We made use of informal settings where snail vendors and consumers narrated their routines and experiences from snail harvesting to consumption and the strategies they use to keep their families safe from foodborne illnesses. The study adopted two frameworks: Soft Systems Methodology to explore and model the “messy” nature of the social system and Social Practice Theory to explore the local practices identified through systemic model. The challenges discussed are set in the context of conducting social research in a developing world situation in a time of social and political tension and a global pandemic (COVID-19). With this in mind, the methodological decisions discussed include the type of enquiry and selection of frameworks, selection of field sites, recruitment and engagement with participants, design of interview instruments, interpretation, and trustworthiness of the study findings. We also discuss the strengths and limitations of using our approach.
Relational Agency and Identity Navigation in Life Stories on Addiction: Developing Narrative Tools to Analyze the Interplay Between Multiple Selves
Authors: Törrönen Jukka
Published: February 2022

In life stories on addiction, in which dependence is experienced as an antagonistic force, agency manifests as enigmatic. As narrators in these stories usually describe how they lost their agency to a substance, we may ask who then takes over the agency and is the actor. Can material things act with agency? By taking influences from actor–network theory, Bambergs’ narrative positioning theory, Greimas’ narrative semiotics, symbolic interactionism, and critical discourse studies, I propose that addiction stories can be productively approached with an ontology that conceptualizes actors’ agency as relational. According to this ontology, individuals develop addiction in relation to heterogeneous attachments that form an enabling assemblage. Moreover, I propose that life stories on addiction are narratives in which narrators navigate their addiction by negotiating with multiple selves. These selves can be productively identified and analyzed from the perspectives of “story,” “interaction,” and “identity claim.” As a story, in which actors are positioned vis-à-vis one another, life stories on addiction can be approached as narratives that describe the confrontation between the trajectory of the self that is driven by addiction and the trajectory of the self that seeks mastery over one’s life. As an interaction between narrators and interlocutors, life stories on addiction can be examined as performances of interactive selves who do positive face-work to neutralize, rationalize, and justify their “deviant” behavior. And as identity claims, life stories on addiction can be considered embodiments of ideal or normative selves that are articulated in relation to the dominant discourses and master narratives of surrounding culture. By using examples from life stories on addiction, the article aims to clarify with what kinds of concepts and narrative tools we can analyze the interplay between multiple selves in addiction stories.
Association of wound, ischemia, and foot infection clinical stage with frailty and malnutrition in chronic limb-threatening ischemia patients undergoing endovascular intervention
Authors: Otsuji Hideaki , Kanda Daisuke , Takumi Takuro , Tokushige Akihiro , Sonoda Takeshi , Arikawa Ryo , Anzaki Kazuhiro , Ikeda Yoshiyuki , Ohishi Mitsuru
Published: February 2022

Objective

The Wound, Ischemia, and foot Infection (WIfI) clinical stage has been thought to have a prognostic value in Chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) patients, and frailty and nutritional status appear to represent pivotal factor affecting prognosis among CLTI patients. The purpose of this study was to examine clinical factors (including frailty and nutritional status) relevant to WIfI clinical stage.

Methods

This retrospective study investigated 200 consecutive CLTI patients. We individually assessed WIfI clinical stage, frailty according to the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) score, and malnutrition according to Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI). We then compared mortality after endovascular intervention between a WIfI stage 1, 2 group and a stage 3, 4 group, and investigated associations between baseline characteristics (including CFS and GNRI) and WIfI clinical stage.

Results

Among 200 patients, 123 patients (62%) showed WIfI stage 1 or 2, and the remaining 77 patients (38%) had WIfI stage 3 or 4. CFS score was significantly higher in the WIfI stage 3, 4 group [median 6.0, interquartile range (IQR) 5.5–7.0] compared with the WIfI stage 1, 2 group (median 5.0, IQR 4.0–6.0, p < 0.001), and GNRI was significantly lower in the WIfI stage 3, 4 group (median 88, IQR 80–97) than in the WIfI stage 1, 2 (median 103, IQR 94–111, p < 0.001). Forty patients (20%) died after endovascular intervention. Incidences of all-cause and cardiac deaths were higher in the WIfI stage 3, 4 group than in the WIfI stage 1, 2 group (27% vs. 15%, p = 0.047 and 12% vs. 3%, p = 0.040, respectively). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed a significantly lower survival rate in the WIfI stage 3, 4 group than in the WIfI stage 1, 2 group ( p = 0.002 by log-rank test). Multivariate logistic regression analysis using relevant factors from univariate analysis showed CFS score [odds ratio (OR) 2.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41–3.13, p < 0.001), diabetes mellitus (OR 3.17, 95%CI 1.17–8.61, p = 0.023) and GNRI (OR 0.93, 95%CI 0.89–0.97, p = 0.002) significantly associated with WIfI stage 3 or 4. In addition, multivariate ordinal logistic regression analysis for WIfI clinical stage showed CFS score (OR 1.43, 95%CI 1.09–1.89, p = 0.011), diabetes mellitus (OR 1.77, 95%CI 1.26–2.54, p < 0.001), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (OR 1.14, 95%CI 1.02–1.28, p = 0.041) were positively associated with WIfI clinical stage, and GNRI correlated negatively with WIfI clinical stage (OR 0.95, 95%CI 0.91–0.97, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

These results indicate that CLTI patients with high WIfI clinical stage may be more frail and malnourished, and be associated with poor prognosis after endovascular intervention.
Economic knowledge among pupils in Austria, India and China: Empirical evidence and cross-country comparison
Authors: Pilz Matthias , Chen Pujun , Mies Rebecca , Rumpold Herwig , Greimel-Fuhrmann Bettina
Published: February 2022

Knowledge of economics is becoming essential for citizens to adapt to economic life. Against this backdrop, the economic education of young people in the general education system has, in recent years, assumed greater importance at the level of education policy in many countries. For this reason, an empirical study was conducted in Austria, India and China. The survey tool examines the economic knowledge, self-assessment, personal interest, and attitude towards economic topics among pupils who are about to finish lower secondary school. The findings are presented and compared based on the respective education system and cultural background. The results demonstrate the feasibility of measuring economic knowledge in a standardised way across three different countries. From a comparative perspective, the results indicate the differences in implementing economic education in compulsory education in these countries and that it is critical to exchange good practices and cooperate for innovation to improve the economic education.
A stepwise lactol carbocyclisation to bridged ethers via a keto–acetal cascade
Authors: McCarthy Sean , Marson Charles M
Published: February 2022

Lactol carbocyclisations provide a succinct method of constructing the oxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane scaffold, a motif present in various natural products of medicinal interest. Lactols containing an unsaturated ketone or ester were prepared by olefin cross-metathesis; an electrophilic alkene derived from methyl vinyl ketone underwent concomitant terminal α-methylenation and oxa-Michael addition to give a bridged lactol which then underwent oxygen-to-carbon transposition in the presence of titanium (IV) chloride giving the desired unsaturated carbocyclic seven-membered bridged ether via a novel dehydrative cascade considered to involve titanium enolates.
Biodiversity communication at the UN Summit 2020: Blending business and nature
Authors: Drury Matt , Fuller Janet , Keijzer Merel
Published: February 2022

Biodiverse ecosystems play a key role in maintaining life on earth. In response to rapid declines in biodiversity throughout the world, the UN Biodiversity Summit 2020 brought together world leaders to discuss potential solutions. We draw on cognitive linguistics, critical discourse analysis and ecolinguistics in analysing the summit contributions. All speakers blended vocabulary from the fields of BUSINESS and NATURE; in doing so, they were able to advocate solving biodiversity loss by implementing approaches commonly found in business. In addition, three main ‘moves’ were employed in these speeches: (i) the state of nature was lamented, (ii) the interdependent relationship between humans and nature was mentioned and (iii) a call to action was given. It is argued that relying on the BUSINESS–NATURE blend for solutions to environmental problems serves to maintain the status quo and may obscure pathways to transformational change. Linguistic strategies for more effective environmental communication are suggested.
Carbapenems consumption and Klebsiella resistance in intensive care units in Egypt: A study to evaluate the effect of an antimicrobial stewardship program
Authors: Elsawah Hozaifa , Samir Ahmed , Elrazzaz Mahmoud , Ramadan Abdallah , Elnaggar Amr , Taema Khaled
Published: February 2022

Background

The high prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella imposes optimizing antibiotic consumption. We aimed to evaluate the impact of antibiotic stewardship program on carbapenem consumption and the Klebsiella resistance.

Method

We retrospectively evaluated critically ill patients with isolated Klebsiella species from Elaraby hospital, Egypt during the period from April 2017 to January 2019. We collected data related to carbapenems consumption and Klebsiella clinical isolates with their antimicrobial susceptibility. Based on susceptibility, Klebsiella isolates were classified into sensitive, extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producer, and carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella (CRK), respectively. Our primary outcome was the change in carbapenems consumption after implementing the program, while the secondary outcomes were the changes in the incidence of CRK.

Results

The study included 205 patients with isolated Klebsiella species during the study period. The antibiotic stewardship program started in March 2018. Out of the 205 patients, 61 patients (29.8%) represented the pre-intervention sample, and 144 patients (70.2%) represented the post-intervention sample. Applying the antibiotic stewardship program was associated with a significant decrease in the carbapenems consumption from 38.9 to 26.6 defined daily dose/1000 patient-days ( p = 0.02). The incidence of CRK was decreased from 85.25% of total Klebsiella isolates to 48.6% ( p < 0.001). Klebsiella species were more likely to be in a lower category of resistance after applying the program with an odds ratio of 6.3 (2.88–13.73) using ordinal logistic regression.

Conclusion

Applying the antibiotic stewardship program could reduce the unnecessary carbapenems use in the ICU with a subsequent decrease in the emergence of the Klebsiella-resistant strains.
Correlation between work productivity loss and EORTC QLQ-C30 and -BR23 domains from the MONALEESA-7 trial of premenopausal women with HR+/HER2− advanced breast cancer
Authors: Tripathy Debu , Curteis Tristan , Hurvitz Sara , Yardley Denise , Franke Fabio , Babu K. Govind , Wheatley-Price Paul , Im Young-Hyuck , Pencheva Radost , Eddowes Lucy A. , Dionne Pierre-Alexandre , Chandiwana David , Pathak Purnima , Lanoue Brad , Harbeck Nadia
Published: February 2022

Background:

The phase III MONALEESA-7 trial (NCT02278120) assessed ribociclib + endocrine therapy (ET) versus ET in premenopausal women with HR+/HER2− advanced breast cancer (ABC). The relationship between work productivity loss (WPL) and domains of European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life (EORTC QLQ-C30) and the breast cancer (BC)-specific module (QLQ-BR23) has not been explored in ABC. In this post hoc analysis (data cutoff, November 30, 2018), we assessed the correlation between the WPL component of the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment: General Health (WPAI:GH) questionnaire and EORTC QLQ-C30/BR23 domains.

Methods:

We analyzed EORTC and WPAI:GH data from 329 patients in both treatment arms of MONALEESA-7 who were employed during the trial. Separate univariable mixed-model repeated measures (MMRM) regression models were fitted for each domain, with WPL as dependent variable and each EORTC domain score as a single fixed-effect covariate. Linear and quadratic relationships were considered based on the Akaike information criterion. Next, two separate multivariable MMRM regression models were fitted with WPL a dependent variable and all QLQ-C30/BR23 domain scores as fixed-effect covariates. The strength of correlation between WPL and EORTC domains was assessed in terms of minimally important differences for the QLQ-C30/BR23 modules.

Results:

Our univariable analysis showed that greater WPL was statistically significantly associated with lower levels of overall quality of life (QoL) and other functional domains and with higher levels of all symptomatic domains of the QLQ-C30/BR23 modules. Our multivariable analysis determined that this correlation was primarily driven by changes in QoL; physical, role, social, and future perspective domains; and BC-specific symptomatic domains.

Conclusion:

This analysis determined the QoL domains that correlate with WPL in premenopausal patients with HR+/HER2− ABC. These results may inform prognostic tools to identify and characterize patients with greater risk for WPL and help design interventional strategies to minimize WPL.
The hybrid strategy on the basis of Miles and Snow and Porter’s strategies: An overview of the current state-of-the-art of research
Authors: Alnoor Alhamzah , Khaw Khai Wah , Al-Abrrow Hadi , Alharbi Raed Khamis
Published: February 2022

The fact pure strategy leads to superior performance was widely criticized. Academics have argued there has been a shift in emphasis from pure strategy to hybrid (integrating a set of strategies). This transformation is constantly increasing. Therefore, from now on, the hybrid strategy based on Miles and Snow and Porter’s strategies is a vital concept to successful performance. Researchers investigated different cases of adoption of Miles and Snow or Porter strategies. Regardless of the prevalence and value of Miles and Snow and Porter’s strategies, they often lead to disappointing performances. The disappointing results of Miles and Snow and Porter’s strategies are due to several firms adopting the hybrid strategy. A holistic view of prior research is needed to understand the importance of a hybrid strategy on performance based on Miles and Snow and Porter. Accordingly, this study provides a comprehensive review of hybrid strategies based on Miles and Snow and Porter’s strategies. The reviewed literature regarding hybrid strategy based on Miles and Snow and Porter’s strategies is categorized and discussed in two directions. Firstly, Miles and Snow’s strategies. Secondly, Porter’s strategies. We analyze the essential characteristics of the emerging field for the hybrid strategy along with the issues, challenges, advantages of a hybrid strategy, theoretical, and practical implications.
Virtual Screening and in Vitro Evaluation to Identify a Potential Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitor Isolated from Vietnamese Uvaria cordata
Authors: Tran Linh Thuy Thi , Le Trong Nhan , Ho Duc Viet , Nguyen Thi Hoai , Pham Vinh Phu Tran , Van Pham Kim Thuong , Nguyen Tan Khanh , Tran Manh Hung
Published: February 2022

Xanthine oxidase (XO) is a potential target for gout disease experiments on animals and humans. Using a molecular docking technique to search for anti-XO compounds from Vietnamese medicinal plants, we discovered that numerous compounds from Uvaria cordata (Dunal) Alston (Annonaceae family) showed this activity. Among these, cordauvarin A exhibited the strongest binding affinity (−8.8 kcal/mol) to XO through a binding interaction with 5 amino acids (eg Gln-1194, Ala-1079, Ser-1080, Met-1038, and Arg-912) of XO protein. Lipinski's rule of five was used to predict the druglikeness of this compound. To confirm the inhibitory activity, an in vitro assay was performed, and the results demonstrated that cordauvarin A significantly inhibited XO, with an IC50 of 124.5 ± 10.12 μM. This study reveals that cordauvarin A is a possible natural therapeutic agent for gout treatment and that this genus should be explored more extensively. However, further investigations are necessary to develop possible natural therapeutic medicines for clinical usage.
Judging Value in a Time of Information Cacophony: Young Adults, Social media, and the Messiness of do-it-Yourself Expertise
Authors: Cotter Kelley , Thorson Kjerstin
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we explore U.S. young adults’ strategies for evaluating news and information value within the rapidly changing, increasingly digitalized media environment. We draw on interviews with U.S. young adults conducted between April and November 2020. Based on our findings, we develop the concept of information cacophony to characterize young adults’ experience of the contemporary information environment. Information cacophony is characterized by the jarring noise of many, discordant voices offering up information, under conditions of low media trust and an absence of a pre-defined epistemic hierarchy of sources. We illustrate how the volume and discordance of voices circulating content online makes it difficult for young adults to know what to believe, and show that young peoples’ strategies for evaluating information are deeply entangled with the sociality and emotionality of the experience of information cacophony. We argue that existing theory is not yet well-developed to account for content evaluations and effects resulting from the novel complexities of navigating information cacophony. Existing work remains focused primarily on news exposure and effects, which misses the broader informational context within which young adults find themselves, and evolving strategies for evaluating information.
Ultrasonographic Changes of the Knee Joint Reflect Symptoms of Early Knee Osteoarthritis in General Population; The Nagahama Study
Authors: Saito Motoo , Ito Hiromu , Okahata Akinori , Furu Moritoshi , Nishitani Kohei , Kuriyama Shinichi , Nakamura Shinichiro , Kawata Tomotoshi , Ikezoe Tome , Tsuboyama Tadao , Ichihashi Noriaki , Tabara Yasuharu , Matsuda Fumihiko , Matsuda Shuichi
Published: February 2022

Objective

Radiographic changes in knee osteoarthritis (OA) are not always associated with symptoms, especially in its early stages. Ultrasonography (US) can detect early changes in the knee joint, but the changes that reflect symptoms have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to identify US-detectable changes in the knee that are often associated with knee symptoms and demonstrate the feasibility of early diagnosis in symptomatic knee OA using US.

Design

In this cross-sectional community-based study, 1,667 participants aged ≥60 years (1,103 women [66%]) were included. All participants concurrently underwent US and radiography of the knee and completed the Knee Society Knee Scoring System (KSS) questionnaire. Simple and multiple regression analyses were used to examine the associations between US findings and KSS symptom subscales.

Results

Among all participants, medial meniscus protrusion and medial osteophytes, age, and body mass index showed significant associations with KSS symptom scores. Among 894 participants with Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grade ≤1, medial osteophytes and age were significantly associated with KSS symptom score. US measures were more related to KSS symptoms than KL grades.

Conclusions

Among the knee US-detectable changes, medial osteophytes were strongly associated with knee symptoms. Osteophytes are reliable predictors of symptomatic early knee OA, even in participants with few radiographic OA changes.
Subclavian steal phenomena in right-sided aortic arch with isolated left subclavian artery as demonstrated by quantitative-MRA
Authors: Ballout Ahmad A , Schneider Julia R , Patel Anand V , Patsalides Athos
Published: February 2022

Right-sided aortic arch with an isolated left subclavian artery is a very rare congenital anatomical variant that can lead to subclavian steal syndrome. We present a case of an asymptomatic patient who was incidentally found to have this variant on CT angiography with QMRA evidence of retrograde flow in the left vertebral artery consistent with subclavian steal phenomena. Since patients often remain asymptomatic until their compensatory mechanisms become compromised later in life, serial monitoring using non-invasive hemodynamic studies such as QMRA may guide treatment.
Treatment failure and its associated factors among children receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Getaneh Temesgen , Negesse Ayenew , Dessie Getenet , Desta Melaku , Assemie Moges Agazhe , Tigabu Agimasie , Gelaye Kihinetu , Alemu Addisu Alehegn , Lebu Sarah
Published: February 2022

Objectives:

Over the last decades, large number of children living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been successfully enrolled in care and initiated treatment. However, treatment failure is still a major challenge in the track, missing far too many children. National-level evidence on antiretroviral therapy failure and its associated factors among children receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy is required to alleviate this challenge.

Methods:

PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane library, Google, and Google Scholar databases were used to access eligible studies. This meta-analysis was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. In addition, Newcastle–Ottawa Scale quality assessment was applied for critical appraisal. Cochran’s Q statistic, funnel asymmetry plot, and Egger’s test were used to assess heterogeneity and publication bias. Random effect model was computed to explore the pooled burden of treatment failure and its associated factors among children living with HIV. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was considered to identify associated factors.

Result:

The overall pooled prevalence of treatment failure among children living with HIV was 16.6%. Whereas virological, immunological, and clinical failure were 4.49%, 5.41%, and 5.71% respectively, where either of parent is deceased (odds ratio = 2.13, 95% confidence interval: 1.4–3.3), opportunistic infection (odds ratio = 1.67, 95% confidence interval: 1.1–2.5), absence of disclosure of status (odds ratio = 1.6, 95% confidence interval: 1.0–2.5), advanced World Health Organization stage (odds ratio = 4.2, 95% confidence interval: 1.6–10.5), and drug substitution (odds ratio = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.5–2.7) were significantly associated factors.

Conclusion:

The pooled prevalence of treatment failure among children living with HIV in Ethiopia was lower when compared to most African countries. Accordingly, either prevention or early treatment of opportunistic infection and advanced World Health Organization clinical stages, special care for children whose either parents are deceased, advocating disclosure of status, and avoiding drug substitution as much as possible were still needed to prevent treatment failure.
Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of group B streptococci among pregnant women in Ethiopia: A systemic review and meta-analysis study
Authors: Lemma Dereje , Huluka Tufa Kolola , Chelkeba Legese
Published: February 2022

Objective:

Maternal colonization or infection with drug-resistant Group B streptococcus is a serious disease that affects mother, fetus, and infant. The knowledge of maternal colonization and antimicrobial susceptibility test is substantially needed for a nation to formulate a policy or change the already existing one to reduce maternal, fetus, and infant mortality. As a result, the goal of this review was to determine the pooled prevalence Group B streptococcus colonization and antimicrobial susceptibility among Ethiopian pregnant women.

Methods:

Literature searches were carried out in the electronic biomedical databases and indexing services such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Original records of research articles, available online from 2014 to December 2020, addressing prevalence and antimicrobial-resistance pattern of Group B streptococcus in pregnant women were identified and screened. Endnote citation manager software version X9 for windows was utilized to collect and organize search outcomes and for removal of duplicate articles. The relevant data were extracted from included studies using a format prepared in Microsoft Excel and exported to STATA 14.0 software for the outcome measures analyses and subgrouping. The I2 index was used to measure heterogeneity between studies and median, and interquartile (25%, 75%) was used to assess antimicrobial susceptibility rate.

Results and conclusion:

Sixteen original articles were found in both qualitative and quantitative analyses. Group B streptococcus colonization was recorded in 979 of the 5743 pregnant women, resulting in a 16% overall frequency (95% confidence interval: 13%−20%). The estimated prevalence varied significantly between studies with significant heterogeneity (χ2 = 154.31, p = 0.001, I2 = 90.28). Ampicillin (97.8%; interquartile range = 89.5%−100%), penicillin G (95.5%; interquartile range = 89.5%−100%), and vancomycin (100%; interquartile range = 89.5%−100%) susceptibility were all high in Group B streptococcus, whereas tetracycline (29%; interquartile range = 89.5%−100%) susceptibility was low. Group B streptococcus colonization rates in Ethiopian women during pregnancy were virtually similar to those in many underdeveloped countries, and Group B streptococcus isolates were highly sensitive to ampicillin, penicillin G, and vancomycin.
Presumed oculomotor nerve palsy following COVID-19 vaccination
Authors: Kerbage Anthony , Haddad Sara F. , Haddad Fady
Published: February 2022

We herein report the case of an 84-year-old female who presented to the outpatient clinic one day following her first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine with mydriasis, ptosis, and a “down and out” gaze. She was subsequently diagnosed with oculomotor nerve palsy, and treated with corticosteroids and valacyclovir for a total of 7 days, with no clear improvement. On subsequent visits, ophthalmic examination improved steadily and showed complete resolution after 8 weeks. This article aims to report this unusual incidence that occurred following vaccination with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. It is important for physicians to identify and report abnormal occurrences which may potentially be related to the COVID-19 vaccines, in order to reach a complete understanding of their possible side effects.
Rostral mandibulectomy for the management of trismus in a cat
Authors: Parsons Kevin , Langley-Hobbs Sorrel , Warren-Smith Christopher , Southerden Peter , Granger Nicolas , Meakin Lee
Published: February 2022

Case summary

A 5-year-old domestic shorthair cat was evaluated for weight loss and poor coat condition due to an inability to open its mouth (trismus) following head trauma 2 months previously. Contrast CT, electromyography and temporal muscle biopsy identified findings consistent with muscle atrophy, denervation and degeneration. Conservative treatment failed to improve the trismus so a rostral mandibulectomy was performed. Following surgery, the patient resumed normal grooming behaviour and was able to eat soft food unaided. The cat re-presented 5 months postoperatively at which time its body condition had improved; however, episodes of sneezing had been noted. An oronasal fistula was diagnosed and treated successfully with a silicon nasal septum button. Follow-up at 30 months reported an excellent outcome.

Relevance and novel information

Management of trismus with rostral mandibulectomy may be associated with a good return to function, including prehension and ingestion of food, and restoration of normal grooming activity. Rostral mandibulectomy could be considered for animals with trismus for other aetiologies such as masticatory myositis where other management options are not available.
Joint Distribution Promotion by Interactive Factor Analysis using an Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach
Authors: Zhou Fuli , He Yandong , Chan Felix T. S. , Ma Panpan , Schiavone Francesco
Published: February 2022

With the increasing demand of individual customption and awareness of cost reduction in express delivery organizations, the Chinese express industry faced with serious challenges especially under the background of government’s strict restrictions on environment and transportation. Therefore, a new service mode called joint distruction (JD) is being tried by the logistics industry, which is expected to address the challenges on online shopping. However, the insufficient understanding of JD adoption factors and their complicated interactions blocks the effectively implementation of the joint distribution. This study aims at identifying potential factors for JD adoption and promoting an effective joint distribution by discovering the interactive relationships among addressed factors. Firstly, potential ingredients for the adoption and implementation of JD are summarized from the literature and industrial interviews. Then, 23 variables are selected and classified into as objectives, drivers, barriers and affected operations. The Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) approach is then employed to analyze the crucial factors and the mutual influences amongst 23 variables. Finally, a case study is performed to construct the hierarchical structure of factors toward joint distribution adoption using the proposed ISM-modeling steps. The perplex hierarchical co-relationships are also identified by categorizing the driving variables and dependent variables. Results can assist express enterprises to promote the novel joint distribution mode and acheive higher efficiency of logistics operation by better understanding on crucial factors of JD adoption and implementation.
Intellectual Potential, Personality Traits, and Physical Fitness at Recruitment: Relationship with Academic Success in Police Studies
Authors: Koropanovski Nenad , Kukić Filip , Janković Radivoje , Kolarević Dag , Subošić Dane , Orr Robin M.
Published: February 2022

This study investigated whether intellectual potential, personality, and physical fitness at recruitment predicted study success in police students (future officers), and whether biological sex influenced these factors. The intellectual potential (high school success and Serbian language test), personality traits (Big Five), and physical abilities (standing long jump, push-ups in 10-seconds, 30-seconds sit-ups, 12-min Cooper running test, and a whole body contract-extend test) of 115 students were assessed on their day of recruitment. Academic success (time-to-graduate and grade point average) were collected at graduation. An independent sample t-test and linear regression were used to determine between-sex differences and predict academic success. Between-sex differences occurred in Serbian language test, the extraversion personality trait, standing long jump, 10-second push-ups, 30-second sit-ups, running, and grade point average. Recruitment measures significantly predicted ( p < .05) grade point average in male ( R2 = 0.344) and female ( R2 = 0.636) students. High school success was the most significant predictor in males, while high school success, Serbian language test, and 10-seconds push-ups were significant predictors in females. Personality traits and physical abilities may differ between male and female police students, but individually they do not significantly predict the academic success, regardless of sex. However, higher prediction power in academic success in female students may reduce the cost of training and improve workforce employment, while higher levels in physical abilities may reduce the dropout rate, improve health, and provide the potential their ability to complete physically demanding tasks.
Use of a High-Fidelity Training Simulator for Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression Increases Working Knowledge and Technical Skills Among Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Trainees
Authors: Melcher Carolin , Hussain Ibrahim , Kirnaz Sertac , Goldberg Jacob L. , Sommer Fabian , Navarro-Ramirez Rodrigo , Medary Branden , Härtl Roger
Published: February 2022

Study Design

Prospective comparative study.

Objective

To quantify the educational benefit to surgical trainees of using a high-fidelity simulator to perform minimally invasive (MIS) unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (ULBD) for lumbar stenosis.

Methods

Twelve orthopedic and neurologic surgery residents performed three MIS ULBD procedures over 2 weeks on a simulator guided by established AO Spine metrics. Video recording of each surgery was rated by three blinded, independent experts using a global rating scale. The learning curve was evaluated with attention to technical skills, skipped steps, occurrence of errors, and timing. A knowledge gap analysis evaluating participants’ current vs desired ability was performed after each trial.

Results

From trial 1 to 3, there was a decrease in average procedural time by 31.7 minutes. The cumulative number of skipped steps and surgical errors decreased from 25 to 6 and 24 to 6, respectively. Overall surgical proficiency improved as indicated by video rating of efficiency and smoothness of surgical maneuvers, most notably with knowledge and handling of instruments. The greatest changes were noted in junior rather than senior residents. Average knowledge gap analysis significantly decreased by 30% from the first to last trial (P = .001), signifying trainees performed closer to their desired technical goal.

Conclusion

Procedural metrics for minimally invasive ULBD in combination with a realistic surgical simulator can be used to improve the skills and confidence of trainees. Surgical simulation may offer an important educational complement to traditional methods of skill acquisition and should be explored further with other MIS techniques.
The Clinical Characteristics, Risk Classification System, and Web-Based Nomogram for Primary Spinal Ewing Sarcoma: A Large Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Zhangheng , Tong Yuexin , Kong Qingquan
Published: February 2022

Background

The goal of this study was to determine the clinical characteristics of patients with primary spinal Ewing sarcoma (PSES) and to create a prognostic nomogram.

Methods

Clinical information related to patients diagnosed with PSES between 2004 and 2015 was extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Independent prognostic factors were identified using univariate and multivariate Cox analyses to construct nomograms predicting overall survival in patients with PSES. Calibration curves and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the model’s prediction accuracy, while decision curve analysis was used to assess the model’s clinical utility.

Results

The overall number of 314 patients with PSES were screened from the SEER database between 2004 and 2015. Race, chemotherapy, age, and disease stage were found to be independent predictive factors for overall survival in both univariate and multivariate Cox analyses. The training and validation cohorts’ calibration curves, receiver operating characteristic curves, and decision curve analysis showed that the nomogram has strong discrimination and clinical value. Furthermore, a new risk classification system has been constructed that can divide all patients into 2 risk groups.

Conclusions

Based on a broad population, the research demonstrates statistical evidence for the clinical features and prognostic variables of patients with PSES. The constructed prognostic nomogram provides a more precise prediction of prognosis for PSES patients.
Superior Divisional Palsy of the Oculomotor Nerve as a Presenting Sign of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)
Authors: Prajwal Shrestha , Ikechukwu Achebe , Bharosa Sharma , Benjamin Mba
Published: February 2022

Although COVID is a predominantly respiratory disease, recent studies demonstrate variable and atypical presentations with multiorgan involvement. Neurological manifestations involving cranial nerves and the peripheral nervous system are more frequently being described. Although mechanisms are still under investigation, several studies demonstrate the neuroinvasive potential of COVID via angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor interactions and postulate this mechanism to be the route of COVID central nervous system (CNS) infection. We present the rare case of a purely superior divisional palsy of the left oculomotor nerve in a 46-year-old woman with no medical history in the setting of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of asymmetrical thickening and enhancement of the left oculomotor nerve. With this report, we hope to increase clinical suspicion for oculomotor nerve palsies as a manifestation of SARS-CoV-2 infection and also to inspire further studies investigating neurological manifestations of COVID.
A Case Of Entamoeba Histolytica Infection Among Men Who Have Sex With Men
Authors: Farraj Kristen , Diaz-Marty Cristina , Lannom Madison , Delshad Jonah , Koumas Panayiotis , Smielewski Mitchell , Schneider Zachary , Verley Janice , Rankov Leonid
Published: February 2022

Entamoeba histolytica is a parasite responsible for intestinal amebiasis and possible extraintestinal manifestations, such as liver abscesses. India, Africa, Mexico, and Central and South America have some of the highest rates of infection due to poor socioeconomic and environmental conditions. The infection has become more common in the United States due to an increase in emigration. There has been a rising incidence of sexual transmission of the infection, most commonly seen in men who have sex with men. Here, we present a case of a symptomatic extraintestinal E histolytica infection in a young Hispanic bisexual man.
Effect of Surgeon Experience on Long-Term Patient Outcomes in Surgical Repair of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture
Authors: Saarensilta Annukka , Juthberg Robin , Edman Gunnar , Ackermann Paul W.
Published: February 2022

Background:

The effect of surgeon experience on patient outcomes after surgical Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) repair has so far been unknown.

Purpose:

To examine whether patient-reported and functional outcomes as well as adverse events after surgical ATR repair differ between orthopaedic specialist surgeons and resident surgeons.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed data from 295 patients treated with surgical ATR repair with standardized techniques. The level of surgeon experience (specialist vs resident) and number of adverse events (rerupture, infection, and deep venous thrombosis) were recorded. Patient-reported and functional outcomes were assessed 12 months postoperatively using the validated Achilles tendon total rupture score (ATRS) and the heel-rise test, respectively. Analysis of covariance was used to compare differences in outcomes between specialist surgeons and resident surgeons. Pearson chi-square or Fisher exact test was used for analysis of adverse events.

Results:

The mean ATRS at 12 months for patients operated on by resident surgeons was significantly higher compared with specialist surgeons (85.9 [95% CI, 80.3-91.5] vs 77.8 [95% CI, 73.8-81.9]; P = .028). In addition, the lateral difference (operated vs unoperated side) in mean total concentric work and number of heel-rise repetitions at 12 months was smaller in patients operated on by resident surgeons ( P = .011 and 0.015, respectively). The number of adverse events did not differ significantly between the 2 groups.

Conclusion:

Resident surgeons achieved patient-reported and functional outcomes at least as good as those of specialist surgeons in surgical ATR repair, with a similar risk of adverse events.