bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HPV18 L1 and long control region sequences variation and E6/E7 differential expression in nasopharyngeal and cervical cancers: a comparative study
Authors: Santa Sheila , Brown Charles A. , Akakpo Patrick K. , Edusei Lawrence , Quaye Osbourne , Tagoe Emmanuel A.
Published: December 2023

Background

The role of high-risk human papillomaviruses (hr-HPVs) in cervical cancer (CC) pathogenesis has long been established. Knowledge about the involvement of hr-HPVs in the etiology of nasopharyngeal cancers (NPC) was not well appreciated until the early 2000s when a clear link began to emerge. However, it is not clear whether HPV oncogenesis in the different epithelial cancers is associated with L1 gene and long-control region (LCR) sequences variation. This study aimed to investigate the HPV18 L1 gene and LCR sequences variation in cervical and nasopharyngeal biopsies, and assessed E6 and E7 genes expression level in both cancers.

Method

Four-hundred and three (403) formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues originating from nasopharyngeal (NPC) (279) and cervical (CC) (124) sites were collected from a pathology laboratory, Pathologist Without Borders, Accra, Ghana. Haematoxylin and eosin staining was carried out to confirm the presence of cancer on prepared biopsy sections. DNA was extracted from the confirmed cancer biopsies, followed by PCR using MY09/GP5+ /6+ primers to detect the presence of HPV and specific primers for the amplification of L1 gene and LCR. Sanger sequencing was carried out to determine HPV genotypes, and L1 and LCR sequences variant of HPV18s in CC and NPC biopsies. The HPV18 E6/E7 mRNA expression pattern in both cancers was determined using RT-qPCR.

Results

Most of the NPC (45%) and CC (55%) biopsies were HPV18 positive. Comparison of HPV18 L1 sequences obtained from cervical and nasopharyngeal cancer tissues, the L1 sequences from the NPC were highly dissimilar with a 59–100% variation among themselves, and in relation to the reference strains. However, the L1 sequences from the CC were more similar with a 91.0–100% variation among the amplified sequences. Also, the LCR sequences from CC were quite different relative to that of NPC. Results for the differential expression of E6/E7 in the two cancers showed a higher fold change in E6 expression in the CC tissues than the NPC tissues while a reverse expression pattern was found for E7 gene.

Conclusion

The current study reports for the first-time variations in HPV18 L1 and LCR sequences, and differential expression of E6/E7 genes in NPC compared to CC, suggesting a possible adaptation mechanism of the virus at different cancer sites.
Factors influencing the time to ethics and governance approvals for clinical trials: a retrospective cross-sectional survey
Authors: Crosby Sam , Malavisi Adriana , Huang Liping , Jan Stephen , Holden Richard , Neal Bruce
Published: December 2023

Background

The findings from multi-centre trials are central to the practice of evidence-based medicine, enabling the development and implementation of new treatments. The time it takes to commence clinical trials at sites can be long, and ethics and governance approvals are key steps on the pathway to site activation. The goal of this study was to explore factors influencing the times to ethics approval, governance approval and site activation for multi-centre clinical trials.

Methods

This paper assessed the associations of trial characteristics (disease area and trial phase), site characteristics (government or private ownership, country) and characteristics of the ethics and governance processes (scope guidelines, mutual acceptance requirements and triage of projects by risk) with times to approvals and activation. Median times were compared between site initiations that were and were not exposed to each characteristic using non-parametric tests in univariable and multivariable regressions.

Results

There were data from 150 site activations done across 91 sites, 16 trials and 5 countries from November 2013 to November 2021. The overall median time to activation was 234 days (range 74 to 657), with ethics approval taking a median of 48 days (0 to 369) and governance approval a median of 34 days (0 to 489). Both the univariable and multivariable analyses identified associations of disease area, particularly oncology (p univariable = 0.012, p multivariable = 0.044), use of scope guidelines (p < 0.001, p = 0.020) and use of a triage process (p < 0.001, 0.043) with shorter median times for governance approval. These characteristics (all p < 0.001) plus early trial phase (p = 0.028) were also predictive of shorter median times for ethics approval in univariable analyses, but none remained predictive in multivariable models (all p > 0.054). The only factors associated with reduced overall time to site activation in both univariable and multivariable analyses were the early trial phase (p < 0.001, p = 0.013) and mutual acceptance of ethics approvals (p = 0.031, p = 0.030).

Interpretation

Times to ethics and governance approvals were only one third of total trial start-up time. Factors influencing times to approval and activation were somewhat inconsistent across analyses, but it seems likely that the introduction of selected governance and ethics processes can reduce approval times.
Effectiveness of m-health-based core strengthening exercise and health education for public safety workers with chronic non-specific low back pain: study protocol for a superiority randomized controlled trial (SAFEBACK)
Authors: Marins Eduardo F. , Caputo Eduardo L. , Krüger Vitor L. , Junior Dirceu M. , Scaglioni Fabrício G. , Del Vecchio Fabricio B. , Primo Tiago T. , Alberton Cristine L.
Published: December 2023

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is the leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide. Public safety workers are highly exposed to physically demanding activities and inappropriate postures, increasing the risk of experiencing LBP. Smartphone app-based self-managed interventions may be an alternative for chronic non-specific LBP (CNSLBP) treatment. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a smartphone app-based self-managed exercise program plus health education, compared to a health education program alone, on neuromuscular and perceptual outcomes in police officers and firefighters with CNSLBP.

Methods

This is a parallel, two-armed, blinded evaluator randomized clinical trial. Police officers and firefighters (from public safety institutions in the Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil) will be randomly assigned to a m-health self-managed exercise program (twice a week) plus health education or health education alone. Self-management exercise program components are mobility and core resistance exercises, available on the app. Follow-ups will be conducted post-treatment (8 weeks) and 16 weeks after randomization. The co-primary outcomes will be pain intensity and disability post-treatment (8 weeks). Secondary outcomes will be biopsychosocial factors related to CNSLBP.

Discussion

We hypothesize that the effects of a smartphone app-based self-managed exercise program on co-primary and secondary outcomes will be superior, compared to the health education only in public safety workers with CNSLBP.

Trial registration

The study was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05481996. Registered on August 01, 2022).
Recognizing sports activities from video frames using deformable convolution and adaptive multiscale features
Authors: Xiao Lei , Cao Yang , Gai Yihe , Khezri Edris , Liu Juntong , Yang Mingzhu
Published: December 2023

Automated techniques for evaluating sports activities inside dynamic frames are highly dependent on advanced sports analysis by smart machines. The monitoring of individuals and the discerning of athletic pursuits has several potential applications. Monitoring individuals, detecting unusual behavior, identifying medical issues, and tracking patients within healthcare facilities are examples of these applications. An assessment of the feasibility of integrating smart real-time monitoring systems across a variety of athletic environments is provided in this study. Motion and activity detection for recording sporting events has advanced due to the need for a large amount of both real-time and offline data. Through the use of deformable learning approaches, we extend conventional deep learning models to accurately detect and analyze human behavior in sports. Due to its robustness, efficiency, and statistical analysis, the system is a highly suitable option for advanced sports recording detection frameworks. It is essential for sports identification and administration to have a comprehensive understanding of action recognition. An accurate classification of human activities and athletic events can be achieved through the use of a hybrid deep learning framework presented in this study. Using innovative methodologies, we conduct cutting-edge research on action recognition that prioritizes users’ preferences and needs. It is possible to reduce the error rate to less than 3% by using the recommended structure and the three datasets mentioned above. It is 97.84% accurate for UCF-Sport, 97.75% accurate for UCF50, and 98.91% accurate for YouTube. The recommended optimized networks have been tested extensively compared to other models for recognizing athletic actions.
The role of diabetes distress in Diabulimia
Authors: Poos Stephen , Faerovitch Misha , Pinto Celeste , Jamalkhani Nima , Chaudhri Fahad , Khan Satara , Lo David F. , McGowan Kaitlin , Martin Ashaki
Published: December 2023

Importance

Diabulimia is a disordered eating behavior in which a person with type 1 diabetes withholds insulin injections to lose weight. It is thought that the psychosocial stress of managing this chronic disease, which is termed diabetes distress, may contribute to developing diabulimia.

Objective

This paper explores links between diabetes distress and diabulimia and their relevance to the diagnosis and treatment of diabulimia by assessing whether people with diabulimia report measurable evidence of diabetes distress. Evidence Review: We evaluated studies examining the qualitative experiences of people with disordered eating behaviors in the setting of type 1 diabetes for themes of diabetes distress by identifying aspects of the patients’ stories that matched the criteria in the Diabetes Distress Scale. Selected studies recorded primary data, analyzed qualitative data, examined lived experiences of individuals with diabulimia, and were made available in English-language peer-reviewed journals between January 1, 2000 and August 31, 2022. Exclusion criteria included partial articles, editorials, reviews, and abstracts along with studies of patients with type 2 diabetes.

Findings.

Over forty individual participants across twelve studies were found to have aspects of their experiences that met one or more criteria from the Diabetes Distress Scale. Participants reported experiences that matched criteria items from each of the seven subscales of the Diabetes Distress Scale. Participants in the twelve studies included 185 individuals with type 1 diabetes experiencing diabulimia, including 164 females (88.6%), 20 males (10.8%), and 1 non-reported gender (0.54%).

Conclusion

We believe this discovery warrants further research probing the prevalence of diabetes distress among people with diabulimia as well as other links between the two conditions. We advocate for a diabetes distress-informed approach to diabulimia treatment and for diabetes distress screening in every patient with type 1 diabetes.
Social networking and fear of missing out (FOMO) among medical students at University of Khartoum, Sudan 2021
Authors: Mohammed Abdalla Abbas Abdalla , Osman Mohammedahmed M. , Ali Mohammednour Mukhtar Mohammednour , Adam Mohammed O. , Mustafa Mohamed Esameldeen Elsayed , Babikir Anab M. , Abdulsamad Ahmed M. I. , Abo Mohamed Elhadi Abdelrahim , Yasein Yasein Abdelmoneim Mohamed , Abdelgader Mohamed Sati Shampool , Hasabo Elfatih A. , Ibrahim Mohammed Elsir
Published: December 2023

Background

With students becoming more involved in the internet and social networking sites, they become more prone to their consequences. This study focuses on measuring the social networking intensity and the fear of missing out among the medical students of University of Khartoum, then examining the association between them.

Methods

Facility-based, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at Faculty of Medicine, Khartoum University between January and March 2021. A total of 333 students were selected by simple random sampling. Data was collected from the participants using a structured self-administered questionnaire that involved the social networking intensity (SNI) scale and fear of missing out (FOMO) scale. The data was analyzed by the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software version 26.

Results

Moderate positive correlation between social networking intensity and fear of missing out was found (p-value < 0.01). Of the total participants; 51 participants (15.4%) experienced low SNI and low FOMO. Another 78 participants (23.6%) had moderate SNI and moderate FOMO and only 16 Participants (4.8%) showed high SNI and high FOMO. There were no significant differences in SNI or FOMO scores among the different socio-demographic variables, except for the SNI score which was positively correlated to the monthly income.

Conclusion

An association between SNI and FOMO was found. SNI was not affected by socio-demographic factors except for the monthly income.
Cancer patients’ needs for volunteer services during Covid-19: a mixed-method exploratory study
Authors: Alfieri Sara , Gangeri Laura , Sborea Simonetta , Borreani Claudia
Published: December 2023

Introduction

To date, there are no known studies that have investigated the new need for volunteer services among cancer patients during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, it is essential for volunteer associations to heighten such knowledge to best guide their offer in this challenging period.

Aim

The present study aims to provide a mapping of the cancer patients’ needs for volunteer services followed at Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori in Milan (Italy) during the Covid-19 pandemic. Since there are no specific questionnaires for this purpose, we created an ad hoc tool for which we report the preliminary result.

Method

We used a mixed-method multiphase approach. Phase I: in April-May 2020 40 ad hoc paper questionnaires were distributed at the entrance of the aforementioned hospital, with the aim of investigating patients’ needs through two open-ended questions then analyzed through thematic analysis. Phase II: the contents that emerged from Phase I were transformed into items and submitted to the judgment of a small group of “peers” (patients) and “experts” (professionals) in November-December 2020 to evaluate their comprehensiveness, representativeness and intrusiveness. Phase III: in January-February 2021 paper questionnaires, containing the items reviewed in Phase II, were distributed within the hospital to a representative sample of cancer patients. We applied descriptive statistics, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Cronbach’s Alpha.

Results

32 patients completed Phase I, 3 “peers” and 9 “experts” participated in Phase II, 214 patients completed the questionnaire in Phase III. EFA highlights five kinds of needs during the Covid-19 pandemic, in order of priority: (1) need to be supported at the hospital; (2) need for emotional support; (3) need for daily errands; (4) need for practical support to family members; (5) need to share free time. Preliminary results on the tool are encouraging, although further studies are needed. These results will allow local volunteer associations to adapt their services during the pandemic.
Efficacy and safety of thrombopoietin receptor agonists in solid tumors with chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia: a meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Wen , Liu Yubingxue , Li Luchun , Zeng Xianghua
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RAs) in solid tumors with chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia (CIT).

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, FMRS, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EMBASE, and ClinicalTrials.gov for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting the efficacy and safety of TPO-RAs in solid tumors with CIT. The search was limited to articles published before April 30, 2022. Primary outcomes included chemotherapy dose reduction or delays, platelet transfusion, the incidence of grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia, and bleeding events. Secondary outcomes encompassed the incidence of platelet count > 400 × 109/L, adverse events (AEs), serious AEs, thrombosis, and mortality.

Results

Our analysis encompassed six studies: five rigorous RCTs and one unique study comparing romiplostim to an observation group, involving a total of 489 patients. For primary outcomes, TPO-RAs significantly reduced the incidence of grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia (RR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.52–0.91). After applying the Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons, the significance of the reduction in grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia incidence persisted (P = 0.008). TPO-RAs showed no significant impact on chemotherapy dose reduction or delays (RR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.65–1.01), platelet transfusion (RR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.48–2.27), or bleeding events (RR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.23–1.10). In terms of safety, there were no significant difference in the incidence of any AEs (RR = 0.98, 95% CI:0.92–1.04), serious AEs (RR = 0.79, 95% CI:0.45–1.40), thrombotic events (RR = 1.20, 95% CI:0.51–2.84) and mortality (RR = 1.15, 95% CI:0.55–2.41).

Conclusions

This meta-analysis suggests that TPO-RAs are generally well-tolerated. However, their efficacy in solid tumors with CIT appears limited, as they only demonstrate a reduction in the incidence of grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia.
Reply to: Letter to the Editor of Journal of Otolaryngology Regarding “Risk of Diabetes in Patients with Sleep Apnea: Comparison of Surgery Versus CPAP in a Long-Term Follow-up Study”
Authors: O'Connor Reina Carlos , Rodriguez Alcala Laura , Ignacio Jose Maria , Garcia Iriarte María Teresa , Carrasco Llatas Marina , Casado Morente Juan Carlos , Perez del Rey David , Marbán Alvarez Irene , Marbán Ibarburu Gema , Baptista Peter , Plaza Guillermo
Published: December 2023

A recent Letter published, in the Journal of Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery in response to our original article “Risk of diabetes in patients with sleep apnea: comparison of surgery versus Continous Positive Airway Pressure in a long-term follow-up study” raised some issues we would like to address here. However, we thank the authors for their effort and time in analyzing our manuscript and we want to facilitate a balanced discussion on this topic with our reply.
Neural correlates of social exclusion and overinclusion in patients with borderline personality disorder: an fMRI study
Authors: Látalová Adéla , Radimecká Monika , Lamoš Martin , Jáni Martin , Damborská Alena , Theiner Pavel , Bartečková Eliška , Bartys Patrik , Vlčková Helena , Školiaková Katarína , Kašpárek Tomáš , Linhartová Pavla
Published: December 2023

Background

Interpersonal difficulties of patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) are closely related to rejection sensitivity. The aim of the present study was to gain further insight into the experience and cerebral processing of social interactions in patients with BPD by using fMRI during experimentally induced experiences of social exclusion, inclusion, and overinclusion.

Methods

The study involved 30 participants diagnosed with BPD (29 female and 1 male; age: M = 24.22, SD = 5.22) and 30 healthy controls (29 female and 1 male; age: M = 24.66, SD = 5.28) with no current or lifetime psychiatric diagnoses. In the fMRI session, all participants were asked to complete a Cyberball task that consisted of an alternating sequence of inclusion, exclusion, and overinclusion conditions.

Results

Compared to healthy controls, participants with BPD reported higher levels of inner tension and more unpleasant emotions across all experimental conditions. At the neural level, the participants with BPD showed lower recruitment of the left hippocampus in response to social exclusion (relative to the inclusion condition) than the healthy controls did. Lower recruitment of the left hippocampus in this contrast was associated with childhood maltreatment in patients with BPD. However, this difference was no longer significant when we added the covariate of hippocampal volume to the analysis. During social overinclusion (relative to the inclusion condition), we observed no significant differences in a group comparison of neural activation.

Conclusions

The results of our study suggest that patients with BPD experience more discomfort than do healthy controls during social interactions. Compared to healthy participants, patients with BPD reported more inner tension and unpleasant emotions, irrespective of the extent to which others included them in social interactions. At a neural level, the participants with BPD showed a lower recruitment of the left hippocampus in response to social exclusion than the healthy controls did. The reduced activation of this neural structure could be related to a history of childhood maltreatment and smaller hippocampal volume in patients with BPD.
Innovative flexible thermal storage textile using nanocomposite shape-stabilized phase change materials
Authors: Zeighampour Farideh , Khoddami Akbar , Dolez Patricia I.
Published: December 2023

A novel flexible thermal storage system based on organic phase change materials (PCMs) deposited on a non-woven polyester (PET) substrate is described in this article. Thermally regulating effects were created via encapsulation of polyethylene glycol (PEG) in carbon nanofibers (CNFs) to manufacture a shape-stable phase change material (SSPCM). Improvement in the thermal conductivity (TC) of the system was obtained by incorporating reduced graphite oxide nanoparticles (rGONP) into the CNFs. A new method was applied to load and secure the manufactured SSPCMs on the fibrous substrate so that an acceptable level of flexibility was preserved (change in bending length less than 30%). The sample performance was evaluated by measuring its thermal properties. The physical properties, wash fastness, abrasion resistance, morphology, and PCM leakage of the samples were also assessed. The results point to a good thermal storage ability of the samples with characteristic phase change temperature ranges of 30.1–31.4 °C and 19.2–24.3 °C for melting and freezing, respectively, and a latent heat of 8.9–22.9 J g−1 for meting and 11.2–21.4 J g−1 for freezing. The use of the CNF-rGONP for PEG enhanced the TC of the system by 454%, thus providing a rapid thermal response, and efficiently prevented the leakage of PEG. Finally, the loading and fixation method on the non-woven substrate allowed an acceptable level of durability with less than 4% of weight loss during washing and abrasion tests. This system provides a promising solution for rapid response, flexible thermal storage wearables.
Canakinumab Versus Placebo in Combination With First-Line Pembrolizumab Plus Chemotherapy for Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Results From the CANOPY-1 Trial
Authors: Tan Daniel S.W. , Felip Enriqueta , de Castro Gilberto , Solomon Benjamin J. , Greystoke Alastair , Cho Byoung Chul , Cobo Manuel , Kim Tae Min , Ganguly Sandip , Carcereny Enric , Paz-Ares Luis , Bennouna Jaafar , Garassino Marina Chiara , Schenker Michael , Kim Sang-We , Brase Jan C. , Bury-Maynard Denise , Passos Vanessa Q. , Deudon Stéphanie , Dharan Bharani , Song Yuanbo , Caparica Rafael , Johnson Bruce E.
Published: December 2023

PURPOSE

The addition of checkpoint inhibitors to first-line treatment has prolonged survival of patients with non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but prognosis remains poor, with new treatment options needed. Canakinumab, a human, monoclonal anti–interleukin (IL)-1β antibody, has potential to enhance the activity of PD-L1 inhibitors and chemotherapy (CT) by inhibiting protumor inflammation.

METHODS

CANOPY-1 was a phase III, randomized, double-blind study comparing canakinumab (200 mg subcutaneously once every 3 weeks) versus placebo, both combined with pembrolizumab (200 mg intravenously once every 3 weeks) and platinum-based doublet CT, as first-line treatment for advanced/metastatic NSCLC without EGFR or ALK mutations. The primary end points were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The secondary endpoints included overall response rate, safety, and patient-reported outcomes.

RESULTS

Overall, 643 patients were randomly assigned to canakinumab (n = 320) or placebo (n = 323). With a median study follow-up of 6.5 months, the median PFS was 6.8 months with canakinumab versus 6.8 months with placebo (hazard ratio [HR], 0.85; 95% CI, 0.67 to 1.09; P = .102). With a median study follow-up of 21.2 months, the median OS was 20.8 months with canakinumab versus 20.2 months with placebo (HR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.70 to 1.10; P = .123). No unexpected safety signals were observed for canakinumab combination. Infection rates were comparable between treatment and control arms. A higher frequency of neutropenia and ALT increase (grade ≤2) were reported in the treatment arm. Higher baseline C-reactive protein and IL-6 levels were associated with shorter PFS and OS. Patients treated with canakinumab had clinically meaningful delays in deterioration of lung cancer symptoms, including chest pain and coughing per LC13 and dyspnea per LC13 and C30.

CONCLUSION

The addition of canakinumab to first-line pembrolizumab and CT did not prolong PFS or OS in patients with NSCLC.
What Is Carcinoid Syndrome? A Critical Appraisal of Its Proposed Mediators
Authors: Mulders Merijn C F , de Herder Wouter W , Hofland Johannes
Published: December 2023

Carcinoid syndrome (CS) is a debilitating disease that affects approximately 20% of patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN). Due to the increasing incidence and improved overall survival of patients with NEN over recent decades, patients are increasingly suffering from chronic and refractory CS symptoms. At present, symptom control is hampered by an incomplete understanding of the pathophysiology of this syndrome. This systematic review is the first to critically appraise the available evidence for the various hormonal mediators considered to play a causative role in CS. Overall, evidence for the putative mediators of CS was scarce and often of poor quality. Based on the available literature, data are only sufficient to agree on the role of serotonin as a mediator of CS-associated diarrhea and fibrosis. A direct role for tachykinins and an indirect role of catecholamines in the pathogenesis of CS is suggested by several studies. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to link histamine, bradykinin, kallikrein, prostaglandins, or motilin to CS. To summarize, available literature only sufficiently appoints serotonin and suggests a role for tachykinins and catecholamines as mediators of CS, with insufficient evidence for other putative mediators. Descriptions of CS should be revised to focus on these proven hormonal associations to be more accurate, and further research is needed into other potential mediators.
Protecting the Musulman Children
Authors: Kind Kevin
Published: December 2023

This article draws on archival materials from late Qing Turpan Prefecture to explore Qing colonialism within the context of mass vaccination efforts in Xinjiang from 1880 to 1911. Following the reconquest of the region in 1877, Xiang Army leaders established official vaccination bureaus across Xinjiang—a colonial administration that encompassed all of East Turkestan—to combat smallpox outbreaks within Musulman (Uyghur) communities and the Qing army garrison. The vaccination bureau in Turpan, although led by Han vaccinators from Inner China, depended heavily on the labor of Musulman graduates from the region's assimilationist Confucian schools. The Turpan Vaccination Bureau reinforced the Xiang Army's broader project of colonial assimilation by training Musulman apprentices in various Chinese medical texts and using them to disseminate these ideas across the prefecture through the medium of vaccination. However, Turpan's Musulmans possessed their own sophisticated body of knowledge regarding epidemics and healing and routinely resisted the imposition of normative Qing/Chinese medical behavior.
A Generalization of mg-closed sets in Hereditary m-spaces
Authors: Al-Omari Ahmad , Noiri Takashi
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we introduce the notion of mgH-closed sets in a hereditary m-space (X, m, H) and obtain a further generalization of mg-closed sets. We investigate basic properties, characterizations and preservation properties of mgH-closed sets.
Second cohomology group and quadratic extensions of metric Hom-Jacobi–Jordan algebras
Authors: Saadaoui Nejib
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we introduce and study the low dimensional cohomology of metric Hom-Jacobi–Jordan algebras. We establish one-to-one correspondence between the equivalence classes of abelian quadraticextensions of a Hom-Jacobi–Jordan algebra and its second cohomology group.
Violence in the workplace: how to protect staff
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: December 2023

Adam Bernstein discusses injuries obtained at work and what duties the employer has to undertake to protect its staff.
Prevalence and associated factors of dyslipidemia among university students in Central Thailand: a cross-sectional study
Authors:   Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani Province, Thailand., Pootong Anek , Kittiteerasack Priyoth ,   Department of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani Province, Thailand., Pattarapanitchai Parichart ,   Department of Statistics, Faculty of Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand., Choomean Sirinart ,   Thammasat University Research Unit in Medical Technology and Precision Medicine Innovation, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani Province, Thailand.
Published: December 2023

Background: Dyslipidemia is regarded as a significant risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs). Currently, there is limited data regarding dyslipidemia among Thai university students. Objective: This study aimed to examine the prevalence of dyslipidemia and its related factors among university students in the central region of Thailand. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 434 students aged 18-25 years at Thammasat University and Kasetsart University were recruited using simple random sampling. Fasting venous blood samples were obtained, and plasma lipid profiles were assessed by an automated analyzer. Dyslipidemia was formally characterized according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP-ATP III) guidelines. Demographic information, dietary behavior, and physical activity were collected using questionnaires. Anthropometric measures were also performed according to a standard protocol. Results: The prevalence of elevated total cholesterol, high-risk HDL-C, elevated LDL-C, and elevated triglycerides was 30.4, 18.2, 20.0, and 11.8%, respectively. The most common adverse lipid parameter was total cholesterol in both genders. Obesity and high fat intake were significantly associated with dyslipidemia (p<0.05). Conclusion: This research revealed a significant occurrence of dyslipidemia, primarily driven by elevated total cholesterol, among university students in Thailand. Obesity and high fat intake are significant risk contributors to dyslipidemia. These findings emphasize the need for awareness, prevention, and management strategies targeting this population.
A MEDIUM-TERM REVIEW OF THE OUTCOMES OF TALAR OSTEOCHONDRAL LESIONS TREATED WITH MATRIX-ASSOCIATED STEM CELL TRANSPLANTATION
Authors: Faustino A , Murphy E , Curran M , Kearns S
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Osteochondral lesions (OCLs) of the talus are a challenging and increasingly recognized problem in chronic ankle pain. Many novel techniques exist to attempt to treat this challenging entity. Difficulties associated with treating OCLs include lesion location, size, chronicity, and problems associated with potential graft harvest sites. Matrix associated stem cell transplantation (MAST) is one such treatment described for larger lesions >15mm2 or failed alternative therapies. This cohort study describes a medium-term review of the outcomes of talar lesions treated with MAST.

Methods

A review of all patients treated with MAST by a single surgeon was conducted. Preoperative radiographs, MRIs and FAOS outcome questionnaire scores were conducted. Intraoperative classification was undertaken to correlate with imaging. Postoperative outcomes included FAOS scores, return to sport, revision surgery/failure of treatment and progression to arthritis/fusion surgery.

Results

58 MAST procedures in 57 patients were identified in this cohort. The mean follow up was 5 years. There were 20 females and37males, with a mean age of 37 years (SD 9.1). 22 patients had lateral OCLS were and 35 patients had medial OCLs. Of this cohort 32patients had previous surgery and 25 had this procedure as a primary event. 15 patients had one failed previous surgery, 9 patients had two, four patients had three previous surgeries and three patients had four previous surgeries. 12 patients had corrective or realignment procedures at the time of surgery. In terms of complications 3 patients of this cohort went on to have an ankle fusion and two of these had medial malleolar metal work taken out prior to this, 5 patients had additional procedures for arthrofibrotic debridements, 1 patient had a repeat MAST procedure, 1 additional patients had removal of medial malleolar osteotomy screws for pain at the osteotomy site, there were 2 wound complications one related to the ankle and one related to pain at the iliac crest donor site.

Conclusion

MAST has demonstrated positive results in lesions which prove challenging to treat, even in a “ failed microfracture” cohort.

RCT still lacking in field of orthobiologics for MAST. Longer term follow up required to evaluate durability.
QUADRICEPS AUTOGRAFT FOR MPFL RECONSTRUCTION IN PAEDIATRIC PATELLOFEMORAL INSTABILITY: EXPERIENCE FROM A TERTIARY CHILDREN'S KNEE UNIT
Authors: Basheer S , Ali F , Nicolaou N
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Patellofemoral instability is one of the most common presentations to a children's orthopaedic clinic. Recurrent patellar dislocations and instability episodes are painful, disabling and increase the risk of irreversible chondral damage. The medial patellofemoral ligament is the primary static stabiliser to prevent lateral dislocation of the patella and is almost always torn or attenuated in these cases. Reconstruction of this ligament is commonly performed using autologous hamstring tendon however there has been some interest recently in use of quadriceps tendon as a graft. Children with patellar instability also present unique challenges due to the small size of the patella and the presence of open growth plates which may require adaptations to the common techniques.

Methods

Patients undergoing medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction using quadriceps tendon autograft were identified using electronic theatre records. Prospectively collected clinical records and imaging findings were reviewed and underlying pathology, additional procedures at time of MPFL reconstruction, current function and need for further revision surgery determined.

Results

Between January 2019 and August 2023, 50 MPFL reconstructions were performed in 37 children using partial thickness quadriceps autograft. Patient age at time of surgery ranged from 5 to 17 years (median age 13 years). The technique was utilised for a variety of indications including recurrent traumatic and habitual patellofemoral instability, fixed dislocations, and revision MPFL reconstruction.

Conclusion

Partial thickness quadriceps tendon autograft can be used safely to primarily reconstruct the medial patellofemoral ligament in paediatric population, including those children with open growth plates. It also has utility in revision cases following previous failed hamstring MPFL reconstruction. We have noted that the younger the child, the more distal to the physis lies the femoral point of isometricity, rendering this a safe and reproducible treatment in this age group. Use of this technique has increased in our unit as we have observed that patients seem to be satisfied with their clinical and functional outcomes with a low incidence of short- and medium-term complications.
LONG-TERM CLINICAL OUTCOMES AFTER SINGLE- VERSUS DOUBLE-BUNDLE ACL RECONSTRUCTION: A MATCHED-PAIR ANALYSIS FROM THE SANTI STUDY GROUP
Authors: Hems A , Hopper G , An JS , Lahsika M , Giurazza G , Vieira T Dutra , Sonnery-Cottet B
Published: December 2023

Introduction

It has been contentious whether an anatomic double-bundle technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR)is superior to that of a single-bundle technique. It has been hypothesized in the literature that the double-bundle technique could provide function closer to that of the anatomical knee joint. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term clinical outcomes after single-bundle ACLR versus double-bundle ACLR. We hypothesized that the double-bundle technique would not be superior to the single-bundle technique.

Methods

A retrospective, non-randomized, matched-paired comparative study was performed. Patients undergoing primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, using either a double-bundle or single-bundle technique, between 2003 and 2008 were included and matched 1:1. Matching included age, sex, BMI, time from injury to surgery, side of injury and type of sport. Patients who underwent revision procedures, multiligament reconstruction or other ACLR techniques were excluded. Patients were subsequently followed up, noting occurrence of graft rupture and any other complications.

Results

A total of 1377 ACLRs were performed during the study period. Seven hundred and fifty-six patients were excluded, leaving 396patients to be included in the matching (198 matched pairs). Mean follow-up time was 176.7 +/− 7.7 months (range, 166–211 months). Overall, 40 patients (10.1%) suffered from a graft rupture which consisted of 22 patients (11.1%) in the single-bundle group and 18patients (9.1%) in the double-bundle group. A multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox model and demonstrated that graft failure had no significant association with the surgical technique (hazard ratio (HR), 0.857(0.457;1.609), p=0.6313). (Figure 1) Five patients (2.5%) in the single-bundle group and 7 patients (3.5%) in the double-bundle group underwent secondary surgery for cyclops syndrome(p=0.5637). Three patients (1.5%) in the single-bundle group and 2 patients (1.0%) in the double-bundle group underwent arthrolysis(p=0.6547). Seven patients (3.5%) in the single-bundle group underwent secondary meniscectomy compared to 6 patients (3.0%) in the double-bundle group (p=0.7630).

Conclusion

Double-bundle ACLR is not superior to single-bundle ACLR at long-term follow up. Therefore, orthopaedic surgeons do not need to use a double-bundle technique when performing ACL reconstruction.

For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly.
PERSPECTIVAS E INQUIETAÇÕES DE BOLSISTAS ID´S DO SUBPROJETO DE EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA DO PIBID NO CONTEXTO DA PANDEMIA DE COVID-19
Authors: Silva Barreto Isis Ludmila , Araujo Santos Railane , Cardoso Coutinho Taís Miranda , Oliveira Ramos Evódio Maurício
Published: December 2023

O presente artigo caracteriza-se como um relato de experiências vivenciadas no Programa Institucional de Bolsas de Iniciação à Docência (PIBID), do subprojeto de Educação Física, que visa inserir discentes de licenciaturas no cotidiano escolar, aprimorando assim a formação inicial e habituando-os à realidade docente recheada de possibilidades e desafios, como o ensino remoto neste contexto pandêmico, que para além da aquisição de novos conhecimentos referentes à educação e suas facetas tecnológicas, abrange dificuldades e limitações impostas por este atual cenário.
PRODUÇÃO ACADÊMICA DO CURSO DE EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA DE ALAGOINHAS: REFLEXÕES A PARTIR DA ORGANIZAÇÃO DO BANCO DE DADOS DOS TRABALHOS DE CONCLUSÃO DE CURSO – TCC’S
Authors: Rocha Luiz , Ferreira Geovana Keylla S.
Published: December 2023

Trata-se de um trabalho realizado pelo Observatório e Centro de Documentação de Educação Física - OBCDEF, do grupo de pesquisa Lazer, Esporte, Midia e Meio Ambiente – LEMMA, do Departamento de Educação – DEDC II, da Universidade do Estado da Bahia – UNEB, que buscou refletir sobre a produção cientifica, a partir da análise dos Trabalhos de Conclusão de Curso – TCC’s, no período 2009 a 2023. Buscou, ainda, compreender as relações entre a produção, o Projeto Político Pedagógico e seus desdobramentos na formação dos discentes. Para tanto, utilizou-se uma abordagem quali-quanti, descritiva e explicativa, a partir dos dados coletados nas secretarias acadêmicas do Departamento e do Curso, que viabilizaram a elaboração do banco de dados. Este foi organizado por áreas temáticas, conforme subdivisão proposta pelo Colégio Brasileiro de Ciências do Esporte – CBCE. Entre os resultados destaca-se: 309 trabalhos defendidos, maior produção de discentes mulheres, diversidade de áreas temáticas, maior concentração de trabalhos nos campos da: Escola e Atividade física e saúde e, ainda, a importância dos projetos de ensino, extensão e pesquisa, como espaços de estímulo à produção discente. Por fim, constatou-se a necessidade da continuidade de acompanhamento desse processo para qualificar as políticas acadêmicas do curso.
CONDIÇÕES DE INFRAESTRUTURA DAS ESCOLAS PÚBLICAS DE EDUCAÇÃO BÁSICA DO TERRITÓRIO DO PIEMONTE DA DIAMANTINA-BAHIA:
Authors: Pacheco Ramos Michael Daian , Neto de Sousa Jeovana , De Jesus Santos Jaqueline , Ribeiro dos Santos Nathalya
Published: December 2023

Este artigo analisa a configuração da infraestrutura das escolas públicas do Território de Identidade Piemonte da Diamantina-Bahia, especialmente sobre os espaços externos que envolvem área verde, pátios, parque infantil, quadra de esportes e terreiros nos municípios de Caém, Jacobina, Miguel Calmon, Saúde e Serrolândia. Utilizamos a base de dados do Censo Escolar da Educação Básica 2021 que possibilitou verificar a existência ou não de desigualdades entre as características da infraestrutura das escolas. No Brasil, as condições de oferta educacional são marcadamente diferentes de acordo com a localização da escola, da etapa de atendimento, conforme seja ela rural ou urbana. Diferentes estudos, revelam diferenças significativas entre a infraestrutura das escolas urbanas e rurais, apontando um maior precariedade e insuficiência nos estabelecimentos de ensino em contextos rurais, alertando para a ausência de diferentes insumos como: salas de aula, sala de professores, banheiros, bibliotecas, área de recreação, cozinha, equipamentos didáticos, serviços básicos dentre outros. Compreendemos que a infraestrutura escolar tem potencial para influenciar significativamente a qualidade da educação, portanto a presença de pátios e quadras de esportes nas unidades educacionais é um fator que impacta diretamente na qualidade do processo de ensino e aprendizagem das aulas de Educação Física.
DIGITAL WELL-BEING - a concern for the quality of life
Authors: Laki Ildiko , Florek Iwona
Published: December 2023

The monograph titled "DIGITAL WELL-BEING - a concern for the quality of life" is the result of a scientific debate held during a conference of the same title that took place on June 9, 2023 at the University of Aldo Moro in Bari. The authors attempt to determine the position of humans in a digitized world and the extent to which their rights remain the same as in the real world, as well as how digital technologies will change people's lives. In today's dynamic world, dominated by technological advancements and increasing digitization, it becomes inevitable to immerse oneself in a subject that combines the fields of law, ethics, and technological innovation. This monograph provides an in-depth look at the challenges, dilemmas, and opportunities brought about by the modern digital era. By focusing on various aspects, from privacy protection to the use of artificial intelligence, from the right to education to ethical issues related to internet usage, this book is a collection of deeply rooted analyses prepared by experts from various fields. The digitization of most (if not all) spheres of human life, from education, legislation, and judiciary to entrepreneurship and private life, will irreversibly change the realization of human rights guaranteed by international and domestic law. Digital well-being involves creating and maintaining a healthy approach to technology. It is an emphasis on development and reaping the benefits rather than just usage, which can be distracting and hinder the achievement of goals. More mindful use of technology will allow for enjoying all the associated benefits: increased focus and engagement, establishing and maintaining connections with the people around us. Starting from reflections on fundamental social values such as freedom of information, personal data protection, and the right to access the internet, the monograph discusses those rights that undergo evolution as a result of digitization and will have disproportionate impact on future law and society. It also examines how technological innovations affect education, both in the context of local social consultations and in relation to remote learning. Each chapter of this monograph contributes to understanding the growing complexity of the relationship between law and technology, showing that technological progress requires simultaneous development of appropriate legal and ethical frameworks.
On the Divide: Reading Cather Against the Binary
Authors: Rohy Valerie
Published: December 2023

Abstract: This essay argues that Willa Cather’s 1896 short story, “Tommy, the Unsentimental,” paradoxically complicates gender binaries by proliferating binary relations—between East and West, weak and strong, sentimental and unsentimental. In so doing, Cather creates a world in which almost everyone’s gender is non-binary to some extent. Drawing on the work of Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick, Jay Prosser, Jack Halberstam, and Chris Coffman, I contend that Cather anticipates current debates in queer theory by showing how thinking about transgender subjects and sexuality together alters how we understand fundamental terms like “homosexuality.” Finally, I show where the text reaches its limit, unable to shed its rigid taxonomy of “kinds” of people. Instead, we would do well to promote a discourse of “unkindness,” in which changes in gender identity and presentation, like those in Cather’s own life, can be acknowledged.