bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leber Mitochondrial Optic Neuropathy in Pediatric Females With Focus on Very Early Onset Cases
Authors: Tagliani Sara , Malaventura Cristina , Ceccato Chiara , Parmeggiani Francesco , Suppiej Agnese
Published: January 2023

The aim of this study was to describe the phenotype of Leber hereditary optic neuropathy occurring in pediatric females. This disease generally affects young adult males, but it can occur also in females, and research data in this population is lacking. The very early onset can challenge the diagnosis and delay treatment. We searched PubMed through February 2021 and identified 226 pediatric females with genetically confirmed Leber hereditary optic neuropathy and added a new case of a 3-year-old female. The male-female ratio was 1.8:1; the mean onset age in females was 11 years with the onset at 3 years of age occurring in 3 females only. Acute onset with mild visual impairment was the most common presentation, associated with optic disc edema in 16%. Differential diagnoses are pseudotumor cerebri, optic nerve drusen and optic neuritis. The outcome is poor with partial recovery in 50%, despite some receiving Idebenone therapy.
Core temperature measurement using ultrasound for high precision manufacturing processes
Authors: Olabode Olaide F. , Fletcher Simon , Longstaff Andrew P. , Bell Andrew
Published: January 2023

During machining processes, the temperature of the workpiece may vary due to different factors. One of such factors is the heat generated due to tool/workpiece friction. Temperature may also vary due to environmental conditions. These temperature variations can affect the dimensional accuracy of the manufactured workpiece. It is known that the expansion of a part is related to a change in its average temperature, which is influenced more by the internal, core temperature than the surface temperature. The surface temperature of the part being manufactured can vary significantly from the core temperature, especially during dry cutting processes. Therefore, to effectively control or compensate for the effects of temperature variation as it relates to material expansion, there is a need to measure the core temperature of the workpiece accurately. In this article, a novel ultrasonic phase-shift method for temperature measurement is used to measure the core temperature of a workpiece on a computer numerical control machine (CNC). The results show that the phase-shift ultrasonic thermometry method measures steel workpiece temperature during subtractive manufacturing processes with deviations of less than ±1°C when compared to the reference PT100 readings. This novel temperature measurement method can be used in different manufacturing processes as part of a temperature control or thermal error compensation system.
Study on optimization of process parameters in dressing of bonnet polishing tool
Authors: Pan Ri , Hu Chunfu , Xie Yinhui , Fan Jinwei , Wang Zhenzhong , Liu Zuhui
Published: January 2023

The surface quality of the polishing tool is of great importance to the polishing performance, and it is usually maintained by a dressing process. The dressing parameters, which ultimately influence the effectiveness of dressing, are difficult to determine because the dressing process involves complex multiaxis motion control. To improve the machining efficiency and quality of the polishing tool, this study investigated the optimization of the process parameters. First, the grain on the grinding wheel was regarded as the research object. The trajectory model of the grain was established using multi-body theory. Subsequently, based on the above model, an optimization method was developed to optimize the process parameters. The experimental results showed that the average initial contour error of the surface of the polishing tools was 267.46 µm. When polishing tools were dressed using the worst process parameters, the surface quality was improved by an average of 67.82% to 86.06 µm. When polishing tools were dressed using the best process parameters, the surface quality of the polishing tools improved by 86.57% to 35.92 µm on average. This paper demonstrated the accuracy of the model and effectiveness of the proposed optimization method.
Design of autonomous vehicle trajectory tracking controller based on Neural Network Predictive Control
Authors: Geng Guoqing , Lu Sinan , Duan Chen , Jiang Haobin , Xiang Huarong
Published: January 2023

When the linear Model Predictive Control (MPC) algorithm is used for trajectory tracking control of autonomous vehicles in high-speed turning conditions, the tracking accuracy is usually decreased due to the low fidelity of the predictive model. To deal with this problem, a trajectory tracking controller based on Neural Network Predictive Control (NNPC) is designed in this paper. The data collected from driving simulation experiments is used for the Back Propagation Neural Network (BPNN) training process to obtain the vehicle state predictive models. To reduce the iteration times of the rolling optimization module of NNPC, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) with Fitness Allocating Inertia Weights (PSO-FAIW) algorithm is proposed, which can allocate inertia weights in light of the distance between each particle’s fitness and the best fitness of the swarm. Finally, the performance of the controller designed in this paper is verified based on MATLAB /Simulink. The simulation results demonstrate that the controller proposed in this paper can give consideration to tracking accuracy and real-time performance.
Optimisation of flow and fluid properties of nanofluids to enhance the performance of solar flat plate collector using MCDM technique
Authors: Ramasamy Dharmalingam , R Ranjith , T Ramachandran , S Murugapoopathi , S Surendarnath
Published: January 2023

In this research work, aluminium oxide (Al2O3), copper oxide (CuO) and gold (Au) nanofluids are prepared with the volume concentrations of 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3% and 0.4% nanoparticles and tested in solar flat plate collector to estimate the heat transfer characteristics and collector efficiency. The influence of the input variable such as material (type of nanofluid), nanoparticle concentration and the mass flow rate (such as 0.016 kg/s, 0.033 kg/s and 0.05 kg/s) are studied experimentally. With the aim of determining the best possible heat transfer and the collector efficiency with minimum pressure drop, the parameters were optimised using multi-criterion decision-making (MCDM) optimisation techniques. Considering the rate of heat transfer, collector efficiency and drop in pressure are the objective functions, the prime ranks of the optimised variables were obtained using TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) and MOORA (Multi-Objective Optimization on the basis of Ratio Analysis) techniques. Finally, the prediction accuracy of the models and the confidence levels were evaluated and analysed through ELECTRE (ELimination Et Choix Traduisant la REalite) method to create the hypothesis of the experiment. Al2O3 nanofluid with 0.1% and 0.2% volume concentrations of nanoparticle at 0.05kg/s mass flow rate was obtained as best alternatives from others and it shows good agreement between experimental analysis and optimisation techniques. While using, when compared to water, Al2O3 nanofluid with 0.05kg/s containing 0.1% and 0.2% nanoparticle concentrations, the enhancements were found to be 11.25% and 14.45%, respectively, for heat transfer rate; 11.16% and 14.34%, respectively, for collector efficiency; and 22.7% and 37.7%, respectively, for pressure drop across the collector.
A novel hybrid consensus-based variational Bayesian filter with position uncertainty in multi-agent system
Authors: Wang Yu , Chen Siyang , Ma Cheng , Tao Jiuliang , Yu Yifan , Shan Wenzhao , Zhao Bo
Published: January 2023

Most existing distributed state estimation approaches assume that the position of agent in multi-agent system (MAS) is precisely known. However, in target tracking applications, the position of agent is noisy, which makes traditional distributed state estimation methods suffer from accuracy reduction. This paper focuses on developing a novel hybrid consensus-based variational Bayesian filter (HCVB) for target tracking with position uncertainty in nonlinear MAS. To improve the nonlinear approximation accuracy, high-degree cubature information filter framework is used. To cope with agent position uncertainty, the measurement update is derived by using variational Bayesian (VB) method to approximate the joint posterior distribution of the target state and agent position, which can estimate the state and agent position jointly. To decrease the required consensus iterations, a hybrid consensus method is proposed, which can achieve global consistency of all agents with a few consensus iterations. Simulations on UAV tracking in MAS verify the superiority of the proposed method.
Securitizing mobility: Profiling ‘non-core’ Europeans
Authors: van der Woude Maartje
Published: January 2023

By combining securitization literature and literature from the field of border criminologies, this article reflects upon the ongoing securitization of intra-EU East–West mobility. The European Union is built on the inherent tension between the (economic) benefits and risks of one of its core principles: the principle of free movement. The two enlargements of the EU that led to the inclusion of several countries located in Central and Eastern Europe further increased this tension and led countries in Western Europe to officially reconstruct intra-Schengen borders. By looking into recent practices of (border) policing in the Netherlands, this article illustrates how CEE nationals are subjected not only to a securitized discourse around their mobility but also to securitized policing practices that aim to create a division between ‘core’ and ‘non-core’ Europeans while at the same time distinguishing between possible ‘crimmigrant’ others and bona fide travellers.
Behavioural Theories and Purchase Intention of Renewable Energy Technologies—A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gangakhedkar Rajesh , Karthik M.
Published: January 2023

Theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and technology acceptance model (TAM) are two behavioural theories that have been widely applied to understand the association between their constructs and purchase intention (PI) of renewable energy technologies (RETs). There is a need to synthesise these studies to understand the overall strength of association between their constructs and PI of RETs. With this objective in view, we conducted a meta-analysis of 41 studies that applied TPB and TAM or both to understand the PI of RETs. The results showed that all the constructs of TPB and TAM have a medium to large association, with perceived utility and attitude showing the strongest relationship with r = 0.536 and 0.487, respectively. To explore the reasons for heterogeneity in studies, moderator analysis was done by considering Hofstede’s cultural dimension of individualism, the economic development level of the countries, and sample-related moderators such as the educational qualifications of the respondents. Moderator analysis gave mixed results.
Complementing Intersectionality Pedagogy With a Missing Component—Positionality
Authors: Nelson Terry A.
Published: January 2023

Teaching about race as an African American female instructor at a predominantly white university has its challenges, especially regarding classroom power and privilege dynamics. I use the concepts of intersectionality and positionality as frameworks to explain the experiences that I encountered in the classroom, usually as the only African American in the room. I share two scenarios that initiated my inquisitiveness to discover more about why the incidents occurred. At the conclusion of the paper, I reveal how the complementary value of intersectionality and positionality benefits all educators who desire to comprehend the hierarchical power and privilege that may interplay in the learning environment.
Applying Item Response Theory Analysis to the SAVRY in Justice-Involved Youth
Authors: Li Nan , Hein Sascha , Cavitt Joslyn , Chapman John , Foley Geib Catherine , Grigorenko Elena L.
Published: January 2023

This study investigated item- and test-level functioning of the Structured Assessment of Violence Risk in Youth (SAVRY) and differential item functioning (DIF) across gender and race/ethnicity in justice-involved youth (JIY) using item response theory analysis. Participants were 868 JIY (23.7% female; 26.9% White, 50.9% Black, and 22.2% Hispanic) in pre-trial detention centers in Connecticut. Results obtained from the application of the graded response model showed that the SAVRY items were not equally discriminating JIY with varying levels of the latent trait, with “Poor compliance” as the most discriminating item and “History of self-harm or suicide attempts” as the least discriminating item. At the test level, the SAVRY provided precise (reliable) information about the latent trait for the majority of JIY whose latent trait between two standard deviations below and above the mean. Results of DIF revealed that six items operated inconsistently between White, Black, and Hispanic JIY, among which two items also functioned differentially across gender.
Will Boys Always Be Boys? The Criminalization of Street Harassment in Portugal
Authors: Ribeiro Beatriz
Published: January 2023

Albeit one of the most pervasive forms of gender violence, street harassment tends to be either not considered a crime or to be faulty criminalized. This investigation contributes to better understand the overall inefficiency of existing laws through an analysis of the criminalization of street harassment in Portugal. Particularly, it searches for obstacles to implementation among those responsible for the process—the street-level bureaucrats of the Portuguese Public Security Police. Through 14 semi-structured interviews, three groups of obstacles to implementation were identified: perceptions of the legislation's content, a masculinist institutional culture, and personal characteristics. These are new findings that contribute to an understanding of the perpetuation of gender violence through state's institutions and workers.
Exploring the Role of Psycho-Social Factors on the Recidivism of Homicide Offenders
Authors: Reid Jonathan C. , Oliveira Raquel V. , Collier Nicole
Published: January 2023

Research on criminal recidivism is extensive. However, little is known about how cumulative risk factors influence recidivism, specifically among homicide offenders. The current study examines the effect of cumulative psychological and social risk factors on recidivism patterns for homicide offenders released in Florida between 2004 and 2011. Analyses of 4,323 homicide offenders indicate that the influence of cumulative psycho-social risk factors varies depending on the measure of recidivism and the statistical method used. The implications of these findings for theory and research are considered.
Impact of COVID-19 lockdown on patient-provider electronic communications
Authors: Hansen Michael A. , Chen Rebecca , Hirth Jacqueline , Langabeer James , Zoorob Roger
Published: January 2023

Background

SARS CoV-2 virus (COVID-19) impacted the practice of healthcare in the United States, with technology being used to facilitate access to care and reduce iatrogenic spread. Since then, patient message volume to primary care providers has increased. However, the volume and trend of electronic communications after lockdown remain poorly described in the literature.

Methods

All incoming inbox items (telephone calls, refill requests, and electronic messages) sent to providers from patients amongst four primary care clinics were collected. Inbox item rates were calculated as a ratio of items per patient encountered each week. Trends in inbox rates were assessed during 12 months before and after lockdown (March 1st, 2020). Logistic regression was utilized to examine the effects of the lockdown on inbox item rate post-COVID-19 lockdown as compared to the pre-lockdown period.

Results

Before COVID-19 lockdown, 2.07 new inbox items per encounter were received, which increased to 2.83 items after lockdown. However, only patient-initiated electronic messages increased after lockdown and stabilized at a rate higher than the pre-COVID-19 period (aRR 1.27, p-value < 0.001). In contrast, prescription refill requests and telephone calls quickly spiked, then returned to pre-lockdown levels.

Conclusion

Based on our observations, providers experienced a quick increase in all inbox items. However, only electronic messages had a sustained increase, exacerbating the workload of administrators, staff, and clinical providers. This study directly correlates healthcare technology adoption to a significant disruptive event but also shows additional challenges to the healthcare system that must be considered with these changes.
The 5R Guidelines for a strengths-based approach to co-design with customers experiencing vulnerability
Authors: Russell-Bennett Rebekah , Kelly Nick , Letheren Kate , Chell Kathleen
Published: January 2023

This research note addresses a significant gap in the literature in researching marginalised customers who may potentially experience vulnerability: the need to use a strengths-based approach in designing social marketing research. There has been a (positive) trend in recent decades towards greater inclusion of stakeholders in social marketing research, design and evaluation through the adoption of co-design methods. However, a theoretical issue that has not been adequately addressed within social marketing research (with some exceptions) is that it is possible to use co-design methods in such a way that the language and approaches that are employed serve to further disempower these groups through a deficit-based discourse. This research note uses reflexivity to propose a set of guidelines for how to implement a strengths-based approach when co-designing with customers experiencing vulnerability, specifically from a social marketing perspective. A real-world program in the context of empowering mature women to maintain secure housing is used to illustrate the guidelines.
Exploring young voter engagement and journey mapping across political events
Authors: Poorrezaei Mojtaba , Pich Christopher , Armannsdottir Guja , Branco-Illodo Ines , Harvey John
Published: January 2023

This interdisciplinary study aims to explore the lived experiences and engagement of young voters from a customer journey perspective. To achieve this, the present study investigates voter engagement journey with various political events (2015 UK General Election, 2016 UK-EU Referendum, 2017 UK General Election and future elections). The authors collected data via phenomenological in-depth interviews with young voters 18–24 years. The results show different engagement journeys and touchpoints. In particular, the findings reveal that (1) young voters were not apathetic of politics as long as they could identify the personal impact of political issues-policies (i.e., sticky customer journey); (2) the ‘voter journey’ is dynamic resulting in stronger engagement yet limited long-term party loyalty; and (3) voters used multiple touchpoints to engage with the political process combining media, voter-led research and interactions with personal networks and political stakeholders (online and off-line). This study puts forward the voter engagement and journey mapping framework which represents a mechanism for researchers and practitioners to gain access into the hidden world of the voter journey and periodically explore levels of engagement across political events. To our knowledge, this is the first study examining customer journeys in a political context and provides insights for political campaign managers to effectively improve voters’ engagement.
Effect of fibrillation degree of empty fruit bunch fiber on sandwich composite incorporate with spent mushroom substrate
Authors: Shakir Mohammad A , Ahmad Mardiana I , Yusup Yusri , Wabaidur Saikh M , Siddiqui Masoom R , Alam Mahboob , Rafatullah Mohd
Published: January 2023

Sandwich composite panel for heat insulation application were fabricated from two types of agricultural biomass waste, the oil palm empty fruit bunch and spent mushroom substrate. These agricultural biomasses are abundant, renewable, and without proper disposal management, might cause massive environmental pollution. This study investigated the effect of fibrillation degree on EFB fiber through the morphology modification to enhance the properties and thermal characteristic of the sandwich composite panel. Fibrillation is a physical changes that occurred on the surface and internal structure of fiber after undergo excessive physical modification by using refiner machine. Higher fibrillation degree could be achieve by narrowing the space area between two disks of refiner which also known as refining gap. In this research, a composite panel was developed from (SMS) and (EFB) fiber via sandwich hot pressing method. One composite sample using raw EFB fiber and three composite sample at fibrillation degree 191.40%, 211.70% and 271.68% were made at density 0.8 g/cm3. Based on result, the morphological structure of EFB fiber improved in term of formation of small fibril formation, larger surface area, optimum fiber length, optimum fiber diameter and better fiber distribution in composite panel. The mechanical properties of composite was obtained at range 2.77–7.21 MPa for tensile strength, 16.61–18.59 MPa for flexural strength, 2.06–3.18 MPa for internal bond and 4.35–15.79 kJ/m2 for impact strength. For physical properties, value of water absorption and thickness swelling were obtained at range 90.34–142.61% and 18.01–44.80%, respectively. Last but not least, the thermal conductivity value of sandwich composite was obtained at range 0.234–0.282 W/m.K. Overall result found that increasing fibrillation degree on EFB fiber at 211.70% able to contribute in improving the mechanical properties, physical properties and thermal characteristic of sandwich composite panel. This research finding suggested that enhancement of fiber morphology using fibrillation degree approach is considered as an alternative eco-friendly method that could be implemented to improve the properties and thermal characteristic of sandwich composite panel.
Axillary Downstaging and the Impact of Clinical Axillary Status on Efficacy of Neoadjuvant Therapy for HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Luo Yunzhao , Jiang Hongchuan , Liu Chengjiang , Zhang Chao
Published: January 2023

Background: Lymph node downstaging and the achievement of total-pCR (ypT0/is ypN0) after neoadjuvant therapy are of great importance in HER-2 positive breast cancer. We aim to provide an overall review of neoadjuvant regimens for lymph node downstaging and to indirectly compare the total-pCR by various neoadjuvant regimens with network meta-analysis in HER2-positive patients according to their clinical lymph node status. Methods: Five English databases were searched comprehensively and systematically for relevant RCTs and case-control studies. The data extracted from the included studies were analyzed with the use of Review Manager 5.3 or STATA 15.0 software. Results: A total of 1508 published manuscripts were identified, and 17 studies including 4747 patients were finally included in our analysis. The network meta-analysis of total-pCR showed that dual-target therapy is significantly better than single-target therapy in clinically node-positive patients, and carboplatin performed significantly better than anthracycline in single-target condition. Lapatinib performed poorly in clinically node-positive patients. However, lapatinib in combination with trastuzumab was ranked at the top in the clinically node-negative group, and pertuzumab showed dissatisfied performance in contrast to the primacy of pertuzumab in clinically node-positive groups. Conclusion: In summary, different lymph node statuses led to the diverse first choice of neoadjuvant regimen. We highly recommended TCbHP as the first choice for the neoadjuvant treatment in clinically node-positive HER-2 positive breast cancer. Since lapatinib with trastuzumab ranked top in the clinically node-negative group, we looked forward to discovering the potential value of TKI in clinically node-negative patients, which needs further analysis in the future.
A trajectory simulation model to analyse the factors influencing the descent of a Skeleton athlete
Authors: Vracas N.S. , Short D. , Banks J. , Taunton D.J. , Turnock S.R.
Published: January 2023

Subtle differences in aerodynamic drag, ice friction and sprint start, all influenced by the skill and physique of athletes, determine the descent time and hence competitive success in the sport of Skeleton. A trajectory based simulation was created by parameterising the geometry of the Altenberg Ice Track in Saxony, Germany to find the physically realistic descent time that captures the physics of the aerodynamic drag, ice friction and sprint start. A sensitivity study was used to analyse the influence of each factor on the overall performance down a fixed mid-line trajectory. Comparisons are made to the actual descent times to confirm applicability for a set of male and female sliders. It was found that the combined mass of the athlete and sled should be maximised within the rules, the initial velocity from the push should be as fast as possible, the aerodynamic drag should be optimised for each athlete and the ice friction of the runners reduced to their lowest limit. If each variable is optimum, then the final race standings will depend solely on the skill of the athlete traversing the ice track by finding the ‘best’ trajectory.
Clinical significance of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced colorectal cancer patients with deficient mismatch repair: possibly residual value in the era of immunotherapy
Authors: Chen Mian , Chen Junguo , Huang Jun , Liu Huashan , Cao Wuteng , Luo Shuangling , Liu Zhanzhen , Hu Huanxin , Lai Sicong , Hou Yujie , Kang Liang , Huang Liang
Published: January 2023

Background:

Deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) or microsatellite instability is one of the well-established molecular biomarkers in colorectal cancer (CRC). The efficiency of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in locally advanced colorectal cancer (LACC) patients with dMMR is unclear.

Objectives:

We assessed the tumor response and clinical outcome in LACC patients with dMMR received NAC.

Design:

Retrospective, single-center analysis.

Methods:

From 2013 to 2018, a total of 577 LACC patients with dMMR who underwent radical surgery were identified. Among them, 109 patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy were further screened out for analysis. According to whether receiving NAC or not, 109 patients were divided into two groups with the purpose of retrospectively analyzing their characteristics, treatment, and survival results, especially the 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) and 5-year overall survival.

Results:

Baseline characteristics were matched between the two groups. One of 40 patients in NAC group recurred, while 13 of 69 patients in non-NAC group recurred. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that NAC (hazard ratio: 0.115; 95% confidence interval: 0.015–0.897; p = 0.039) was independent influence factor for DFS. In NAC group, there were 13/40 (32.5%) patients for tumor regression grade 1 and 27/40 (67.5%) patients converted clinical positive N-stage into negative N-stage.

Conclusion:

In this study, NAC was associated with better tumor downstaging and longer 5-year DFS in LACC patients with dMMR. Consequently, NAC might be an additional treatment choice when it comes to such patients in the future.
Sedation as an alternative anesthetic technique for frail patients in transurethral resection of the prostate
Authors: Ayoub Christian Habib , Chalhoub Viviane , El-Achkar Adnan , Abou Heidar Nassib , Tamim Hani , Maroun-Aouad Marie , El Hajj Albert
Published: January 2023

Background:

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) under Monitored Anesthesia Care MAC/Sedation (macTURP), as compared with TURP under general (genTURP) or spinal (spTURP) anesthesia, is a safer and infrequently used technique reserved for high-risk patients.

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to compare 30-day postoperative outcomes of TURP using the three types of anesthesia techniques.

Design and methods:

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for patients who underwent TURP between 2008 and 2019. Demographics, lab values, medical history, and 30-day outcomes were compared. Univariate and multivariate regression models for postoperative complications were constructed. A propensity score–matched analysis was then performed for genTURP and macTURP and for spTURP and macTURP as a sensitivity analysis.

Results:

A total of 53,182 patients underwent TURP. Older patients (>80) with diabetes requiring insulin (7.9%), leukocytosis (7.4%), history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (7.8%), dyspnea (7.2%), and of ASA > 2 (58.8%) were more likely to undergo macTURP as compared with genTURP ( p < 0.013). SpTURP showed lower rates of urinary tract infection (UTI) [odds ratio (OR) = 0.869] as compared with genTURP ( p = 0.049), whereas macTURP showed higher rates of major adverse cardiovascular events (OR = 2.179) as compared with genTURP ( p = 0.005). All other postoperative complications showed similar rates between the three procedures. The propensity-matched cohorts demonstrated that no differences in postoperative complication rates were noted between macTURP and genTURP and between macTURP and spTURP.

Conclusion:

MacTURP was found to be feasible with a good safety profile as compared with genTURP and spTURP. MacTURP could be used in elderly, frail, and co-morbid patients with a similar safety profile as compared with more invasive anesthetic techniques.
Return to Pivoting Sports after Cartilage Repair Surgery of the Knee: A Scoping Review
Authors: Toyooka Seikai , Moatshe Gilbert , Persson Andreas , Engebretsen Lars
Published: January 2023

Objective

To perform a scoping literature review evaluating and reporting on outcomes and return to pivoting sports after cartilage procedures. For this review, the following cartilage procedures were evaluated: microfracture, osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT), osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA), and autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI).

Design

The scoping review incorporated articles identified using PubMed (MEDLINE), CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Screening of reference lists of included studies and forward citation tracking were performed to identify additional studies. Reported on return to pivoting sports after cartilage surgery written in English language.

Results

Sixteen studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The return to sports (RTS) rates after microfracture ranged from 44% to 83%, and to preinjury level from 25% to 75%. The RTS rates after OAT ranged from 87% to 100%, and to preinjury level from 67% to 93%. The RTS rates after OCA ranged from 77% to 80%, and to preinjury level 64%. The RTS rates after ACI ranged from 33% to 96%, and to preinjury level from 26% to 67%.

Conclusions

There was a high heterogeneity and range in rates of RTS in athletes participating in pivoting sports. Most studies reported high rates of RTS; however, return to preinjury level was lower. These data may be important to clinicians in shared decision making on the type of procedure to be performed and counseling pivoting sports athletes on prognosis and expected RTS rates.
Improved Understanding of the Inflammatory Response in Synovial Fluid and Serum after Traumatic Knee Injury, Excluding Fractures of the Knee: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nieboer Michael F. , Reijman Max , Wesdorp Marinus A. , Bastiaansen-Jenniskens Yvonne M. , Meuffels Duncan E.
Published: January 2023

Background

Traumatic knee injury results in a 4- to 10-fold increased risk of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Currently, there are no successful interventions for preventing PTOA after knee injury. The aim of this study is to identify inflammatory proteins that are increased in serum and synovial fluid after acute knee injury, excluding intra-articular fractures.

Methods

A literature search was done according to the PRISMA guidelines. Articles reporting about inflammatory proteins after knee injury, except fractures, up to December 8, 2021 were collected. Inclusion criteria were as follows: patients younger than 45 years, no radiographic signs of knee osteoarthritis at baseline, and inflammatory protein measurement within 1 year after trauma. Risk of bias was assessed of the included studies. The level of evidence was determined by the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy.

Results

Ten studies were included. All included studies used a healthy control group or the contralateral knee as healthy control. Strong evidence for interleukin 6 (IL-6) and limited evidence for CCL4 show elevated concentrations of these proteins in synovial fluid (SF) after acute knee injury; no upregulation in SF for IL-2, IL-10, CCL3, CCL5, CCL11, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) was found. Limited evidence was found for no difference in serum concentration of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, CCL2, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) after knee injury.

Conclusion

Interleukin 6 and CCL4 are elevated in SF after acute knee injury. Included studies failed to demonstrate increased concentration of inflammatory proteins in SF samples taken 6 weeks after trauma. Future research should focus on SF inflammatory protein measurements taken less than 6 weeks after injury.
Optimal guiding catheter position during advancement of the guiding catheter into the carotid artery from the aortic arch via transfemoral approach
Authors: Ryu Bikei , Mochizuki Tatsuki , Kushi Kazuki , Ishikawa Tomomi , Shima Shogo , Sato Shinske , Inoue Tatsuya , Kawamata Takakazu , Niimi Yasunari
Published: January 2023

Background

Guiding catheter (GC) advancement into the target carotid artery is a crucial step in neuroendovascular therapy. In difficult anatomies, alternative methods have been reported to overcome difficult carotid access for swift GC advancement. However, studies focusing on the positional relationship between the GC and inner catheter (IC) at the aortic arch are lacking.

Methods

We evaluated the impact of the positional relationship between the GC and IC on whether the GC position affects catheter support or system straightening. We retrospectively reviewed 89 patients who underwent neuroendovascular therapy. We assessed the time to carotid access across difficult arch anatomies. The GC position was divided into Position 1, descending aorta level; Position 2, aortic arch level; and Position 3, origin of the left common carotid artery or innominate artery. We also evaluated the GC support and straightening effects in an in vitro vascular model study.

Results

The coaxial catheter flexion angle at the aortic arch was significantly larger when the GC was set to Position 3 ( p < 0.0001). A significantly shorter time to carotid access was observed with Positions 2 and 3 than with Position 1 in the difficult arch anatomy group. In the in vitro vascular model evaluation, the catheter support effect significantly increased as the GC position became closer to the IC tip ( p < 0.0001) and straightening effect significantly increased as the GC moved to Position 2 from Position 1 ( p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

During GC advancement, the GC positional relationship changed the support of the coaxial system with system straightening. The optimal GC position, Position 3, facilitated swift GC advancement.
Do lifestyle factors influence pain prognosis? A 1-year follow-up study
Authors: Louis Marc-Henri , Berquin Anne , Steyaert Arnaud
Published: January 2023

Objective

The aim of this observational longitudinal study was to investigate the impact of lifestyle factors on the prognosis of patients with pain.

Methods

This study was part of a large prospective longitudinal study conducted in general practice (GP). Participants completed questionnaires at baseline (T0) and one year later (T1). Outcomes analysed were the EQ-5D index, presence of pain and the ability to perform a light work for 1 hour without difficulty.

Results

Among 377 individuals with pain at T0, 294 still reported pain at T1. This subgroup had a significantly higher BMI, more painful sites, higher pain intensity, more sleep problems, poorer general self-rated health (GSRH) and higher Örebro Musculoskeletal Pain Screening Questionnaire (ÖMPSQ) score at T0 than pain-free individuals at T1. There were no differences in age, sex, physical activity and smoking. In multivariable analyses, the number of painful sites, GSRH, sleep problems, pain duration, pain intensity and 2 short-form 10-item Örebro musculoskeletal pain questionnaire (SF-ÖMPSQ) items were independently associated with at least one outcome 1 year later. Only GSRH was strongly associated with all outcomes. The accuracy of GSRH at T0 to classify participants according to dichotomous outcomes was overall moderate (0.7 < AUC <0.8).

Conclusions

Lifestyle factors appear to have little influence on the outcome of patients with pain in GP. Conversely, poorer GSRH – which probably integrates the subjects’ perception of several factors – could be considered a negative prognostic factor in patients with pain.
Prevalence of inappropriate drug dose adjustment and associated factors among inpatients with renal impairment in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dale Debalke , Asmamaw Getahun , Etiso Teshale , Bussa Zebenay
Published: January 2023

Objective:

There is a high prevalence of inadequate dose adjustment among inpatients with renal insufficiency worldwide. There is, however, a paucity of studies that summarizes the topic in the African context. Therefore, this study aims to summarize the prevalence of inappropriate drug dose adjustment (IDDA) and associated factors among inpatients with renal impairment in Africa.

Methods:

A literature search for English-language articles was conducted using reputable databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. The search was carried out between 3 February and 3 March of 2022. All published articles that were online at the time of data collection were considered. Observational studies that examined the prevalence of IDDA for any type of drug in renal impairment as a primary or secondary outcome were included in our analysis. Statistical software such as Open Meta Analyst and Review Manager were used to examine outcome measures. I2 statistics, Logit event rate, and Der Simonian and Laird’s random effect models were also used.

Results:

Seven articles were qualified for the systematic review and meta-analysis. All included studies comprised a total of 1918 patients. A total of 5072 prescriptions were assessed, and 1879 (37%) of them had at least one drug that required a dose adjustment. The pooled prevalence of IDDA among adult patients with renal impairment was 13.7% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 7.9%–19.5%) in Africa. Based on the number of prescriptions containing medications that required dose adjustment, the pooled prevalence accounts for 39.3% (95% CI = 24.1%–54.4%) (932/1879). Factors associated with inappropriate drug prescribing and usage concerning renal function were the number/types of prescribed medicines (most common), age, stage of renal impairment, comorbidity, and unemployment.

Conclusions:

In this study, IDDA practice appears to be a common challenge among inpatients with renal insufficiency in Africa. The number and type of medications prescribed, age, stage of renal impairment, comorbidity, and unemployment were factors associated with inappropriate drug prescribing and use. In addition to expanding such studies, hospitals across Africa must conduct research on the clinical outcomes of IDDA practices in patients with renal impairment.
Surface and Sublevel Hate
Authors: Munn Luke
Published: January 2023

On the face of it, contemporary “alt-tech” platforms appear more moderate than legacy hate havens. Yet it's also clear that virulent hate in the form of misogyny, white supremacy, and xenophobia has not disappeared. Probing this tension, this article conceptualizes two forms of hate: Surface “Hate” (moderate content that is highly visible and easily accessible) and Sublevel Hate (explicit content that is more marginal and less discernible). These terms are illustrated by examining several viral videos on Rumble. This twinned mechanism explains how alt-tech platforms can be both accessible and extreme at the same time. Stratified hate is strategic, heightening the appeal and durability of online communities. Recognizing this dangerous dynamic is key for interventions seeking to counter it.
Living Donor Kidney Transplantation in Quebec: A Qualitative Case Study of Health System Barriers and Facilitators
Authors: Horton Anna , Loban Katya , Fortin Marie-Chantal , Charbonneau Sylvie , Nugus Peter , Pâquet Michel R. , Chaudhury Prosanto , Cantarovich Marcelo , Sandal Shaifali
Published: January 2023

Background:

Patients with kidney failure represent a major public health burden, and living donor kidney transplantation (LDKT) is the best treatment option for these patients. Current work to optimize LDKT delivery to patients has focused on microlevel interventions and has not addressed interdependencies with meso and macro levels of practice.

Objective:

We aimed to learn from a health system with historically low LDKT performance to identify facilitators and barriers to LDKT. Our specific aims were to understand how LDKT delivery is organized through interacting macro, meso, and micro levels of practice and identify what attributes and processes of this health system facilitate the delivery of LDKT to patients with kidney failure and what creates barriers.

Design:

We conducted a qualitative case study, applying a complex adaptive systems approach to LDKT delivery, that recognizes health systems as being made up of dynamic, nested, and interconnected levels, with the patient at its core.

Setting:

The setting for this case study was the province of Quebec, Canada.

Participants:

Thirty-two key stakeholders from all levels of the health system. This included health care professionals, leaders in LDKT governance, living kidney donors, and kidney recipients.

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews with 32 key stakeholders and a document review were undertaken between February 2021 and December 2021. Inductive thematic analysis was used to generate themes.

Results:

Overall, we identified strong links between system attributes and processes and LDKT delivery, and more barriers than facilitators were discerned. Barriers that undermined access to LDKT included fragmented LDKT governance and expertise, disconnected care practices, limited resources, and regional inequities. Some were mitigated to an extent by the intervention of a program launched in 2018 to increase LDKT. Facilitators driven by the program included advocacy for LDKT from individual member(s) of the care team, dedicated resources, increased collaboration, and training opportunities that targeted LDKT delivery at multiple levels of practice.

Limitations:

Delineating the borders of a “case” is a challenge in case study research, and it is possible that some perspectives may have been missed. Participants may have produced socially desirable answers.

Conclusions:

Our study systematically investigated real-world practices as they operate throughout a health system. This novel approach has cross-disciplinary methodological relevance, and our findings have policy implications that can help inform multilevel interventions to improve LDKT.
Adult congenital horseshoe lung with bilateral pulmonary sequestration: A case report
Authors: Ren Guoli , Wang Bo , Liu Daliang
Published: January 2023

Horseshoe lung (HL) is an infrequent congenital lung anomaly. Its main feature is that the lower lungs on both sides extend behind the pericardium and fuse across the midline, usually accompanied by pulmonary dysplasia. It is reported that 80% of HL is relevant to the abnormal return of some pulmonary veins from the right lung to the inferior vena cava or right atrium (scimitar syndrome). Most patients are within 5 years old, most commonly within 1 year old, but HL may also have no apparent clinical symptoms or mild symptoms. This case is a 36-years-old adult female who developed left chest pain more than a month ago and continued to worsen for 10 days. The patient also had repeated pulmonary infection with cough and expectoration.
Adenomyosis with cavitation and infection after uterine artery embolization: A case report
Authors: Liaw Victor , Kim Man-Deuk , Kim Sunghoon
Published: January 2023

Other than the expected abdominal pain post-embolization, only few complications occur after uterine artery embolization (UAE). Necrotic cavitation of adenomyosis is a particularly rare complication. Here, we describe a patient with adenomyosis who experienced persistent fever after UAE, which ultimately resolved with the spontaneous expulsion of adenomyosis.
Minority Women Incarcerated: The Vulnerabilities of Traveller Women in the Irish Criminal Justice System
Authors: Kennedy Patricia , Pierce Maria
Published: January 2023

Women comprise a minority of the prison population, representing 10.6% of the prison population in Ireland in 2020. An issue of pressing concern is the over-representation of minority ethnic women among female prisoners. In Ireland, Irish Traveller women are 22 times more likely to be imprisoned than non-Traveller women. Their risk of imprisonment is greater than Traveller men who are over-represented among male prisoners. Traveller women in contact with the criminal justice system are likely to have experienced extreme deprivation, social exclusion, and current and historical/intergenerational discrimination. This article draws on evidence from published literature and a qualitative study undertaken by the authors to examine the vulnerabilities of Traveller women in prison in Ireland and the multiple and complex reasons for their over-representation in prison. To improve the situation of Traveller women in prison, the UN Bangkok Rules can be used to guide the development of relevant legislation, procedures, policy, and action plans. Traveller women in prison must not be overlooked in the implementation of the Public Sector Equality and Human Rights Duty, which places a legal obligation in Ireland on prison authorities to promote equality, prevent discrimination, and protect the human rights of all affected by their policies and plans.