bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unraveling the physiology of the autonomic nervous system: An unlikely collaboration between Arturo Rosenblueth and Walter Cannon
Authors: Schwerdtfeger Luke A
Published: March 2024

This article details the collaboration between Dr Walter B. Cannon (1871–1945) and Dr Arturo Rosenblueth (1900–1970) at the Department of Physiology at Harvard Medical School (HMS) in the 1930s–1940s. Cannon was a renowned physiologist whose Department of Physiology was home to scientists from around the globe. Rosenblueth joined the Department as a Research Fellow in 1930. Over the following 15 years, Rosenblueth and Cannon co-authored over 20 papers and one book. Rosenblueth ended his tenure at HMS as an assistant professor before returning to Mexico to head a newly created institute of physiology. This article draws from personal and professional correspondences between Cannon and Rosenblueth at HMS in the 1930s and early 40s. These letters, along with others from those at the Department of Physiology and the greater Harvard community paint a picture of the feeling towards Latin American scientists at that time. Finally, this brief survey illuminates some of the contributions of the many Latin American scholars who worked in the department during these years. The diverse backgrounds of these talented young scientists coupled with immense support from Cannon and Rosenblueth enabled remarkable discoveries and innovations in neurophysiology throughout the first half of the 20th century.
Developing an evidence-and ethics-informed intervention for moral distress
Authors: Deschenes Sadie , Kunyk Diane , Scott Shannon D
Published: March 2024

The global pandemic has intensified the risk of moral distress due to increased demands on already limited human resources and uncertainty of the pandemic’s trajectory. Nurses commonly experience moral distress: a conflict between the morally correct action and what they are required or capable of doing. Effective moral distress interventions are rare. For this reason, our team conducted a multi-phase research study to develop a moral distress intervention for pediatric critical care nurses. In this article, we discuss our multi-phase approach to develop a moral distress intervention—proactive, interdisciplinary meeting. Our proposed intervention is a sequential compilation of empirical work couched within a relational ethics lens thus should point to enhanced potential for intervention effectiveness.
Do the Prevalent Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Factors Drive the Choice of Business Models? A Mixed-methods Study Involving Social Entrepreneurs in India
Authors: H Nidhisha , Ramaprasad Badrinarayan Srirangam , Sankaran K. , Prabhu K. P. Nandan , Phadke Ravi
Published: March 2024

While social entrepreneurship scholars in the past have focused much on the building blocks of robust social entrepreneurship business models and sustainability factors including supportive ecosystem elements, it is not clear ‘what’ categories of the interactive ecosystem in which social entrepreneurs are located influence the choice of business models even before they operationalize their social ventures. Accordingly, this study espouses a mixed-method research design to address this issue. The authors collected data from 24 and 112 social entrepreneurs in two study phases, respectively. Four support factors—business, market, financial and policy were considered important by social entrepreneurs in India that they believe influenced their choice of business models. While policy and financial support factors were considered most important by social entrepreneurs with a pure social mission/impact orientation, market and business support were considered significant influential factors by social entrepreneurs with a profit orientation. Social entrepreneurs who sought a balance between social and economic missions, however, considered the presence of financial and market support to be crucial for choosing a relevant business model. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that investigates the inherent priori influence of prevalent ecosystem factors on social business model selection. It uniquely brings out an empirical association between ecosystem factors and business model preferences, affirming that factors pivotal to choice also underpin sustainability. Moreover, this study also unveils an interactive framework encompassing entrepreneur traits and their orientations, ecosystem factors, feedback and performance. Offering multiple actionable implications, this study offers key insights for policy decision-makers and practitioners.
Measurement of Nuchal Translucency Thickness in First Trimester Ultrasound Foetal Images Using Markov Random Field
Authors: Chaudhari Kalyani , Oza Shruti
Published: March 2024

Background

The first-trimester ultrasound assessment of nuchal translucency (NT) thickness has lately been recommended as the most helpful sign in early screening for prenatal chromosomal disorders. Increased foetal NT thickness between 11 and 13+6 weeks of gestation is a frequent phenotypic manifestation of chromosomal abnormalities as well as a variety of foetal deformities and genetic disorders.

Purpose

At the moment, clinicians conduct the measurement manually. The measurement may take a long time to complete, requires highly competent operators, and is susceptible to mistakes. So, an automatic method is required for NT measurement.

Materials and Methods

This study proposes a Markov random Field-based approach for contextually segmenting the NT area from foetal pictures and offering a quick and inexpensive diagnostic even during the early stages of pregnancy.

Results

Proposed method gives maximum NT thickness error 0.03 and minimum NT thickness error 0.04.

Conclusion

The proposed research work developed a prototype for an automated NT thickness measuring system. This study proposes an MRF-based model for segmentation and detection of NT area from foetal pictures which gives error is less than other methods.
Physicochemical properties and sensory profile of some breeds of rabbits in Algeria
Authors: Sanah Ibtissem , Kahina Hafid , Fairouz Djeghim , Romeila Bader , Ghania Zitouni , Zakaria Khalfaoui , Abdelghani Boudjellal , Miguel Angel Sentandreu , Samira Becila
Published: March 2024

The objective of this study was to compare physicochemical traits and sensory profile of meat from rabbits of both sexes belonging to two genotypes, local population and new line (ITELV 2006) which exhibited better characteristics due to its genetic potential. A total of 60 rabbits at 90 days of age were used in the experiment. At slaughter, meat physicochemical and sensory characteristics were measured on Longissimus lumborum muscle. Differences related to genotype were found in most of the physicochemical characteristics studied like Cooking Losses ( P < 0.001), Percentage of Released Water ( P < 0.001), Myofibril Fragmentation Index ( P < 0.001) and a* value ( P < 0.001). However, in some of the traits, the differences were related to interaction of sex and genotype (S*G) as in the case of Cooking Losses ( P < 0.001) and b* value ( P < 0.01). Regarding SDS-PAGE analysis results, the comparison between two breeds has not shown any particular distinction in the myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic protein profiles in relation to the number and the intensity of bands. No significant differences in the sensory characteristics of the meat were noted ( P > 0.05). Interestingly, no relevant differences were found between meat from male and female rabbits in all the variables studied ( P > 0.05). It was concluded that meat quality was mainly affected by genotype. Thus, the new line exhibited good physicochemical characteristics compared to the local one. This study is the first to analyse and compare the physicochemical and sensory properties of Algerian rabbit meat.
PICC insertion and veins of the arm size variation during dialysis treatment: A prospective observational study
Authors: Ajello Elena , Arresta Antonio , Rutili Riccardo , Aronica Salvatore , Lorenzo Rigo , Monti Elia , Galletti Martina , Cannizzo Luigi , Giannini Luciano , Lucchini Alberto , Pieruzzi Federico , Elli Stefano
Published: March 2024

Background:

Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters play an increasingly important role in Central Venous Access Devices. However, the use of these devices should be carefully considered in specific situations such as central catheterisation in patients with chronic kidney disease. When evaluating the feasibility of placement for a patient undergoing dialysis, the relationship between changes in circulating volume before and after dialysis treatment, and potential variations in the size of deep veins in the upper limbs, should be considered.

Materials:

Upper limb veins, specifically the basilic or brachial veins, were identified and measured before and after dialysis treatment. Patient data and weight loss data during dialysis treatment were also collected. Linear regression analysis was performed to assess the correlation between the variables.

Results:

The average variation in vein size for the entire sample was +0.17 ± 0.43 mm. The mean volume removed was 2.2 ± 0.8 l. In subgroup 1 (fluid volume loss <2000 ml), the population experienced a decrease in the measured vein size after dialysis. In subgroup 2 (fluid volume loss ⩾2000 ml), the population experienced an increase in the measured vein size after dialysis.

Conclusions:

Upper arm vascular access placement in dialysed patients with fluid removal of less than 2000 ml should be performed after the dialysis session. Conversely, in dialysed patients with fluid removal of more than 2000 ml, where a significant increase in vein size was observed, vascular access placement should be performed before the dialysis session when the veins are smaller. Additionally, it should be noted that in patients with chronic kidney disease, the venous system of the upper limbs should be preserved as much as possible to prevent thrombosis and stenosis in potential arteriovenous fistula creation.
Post-creep residual tensile properties of multi-walled carbon nanotube/epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Kordzangeneh Danial , Khoramishad Hadi , Fatolahi Amir Reza
Published: March 2024

Epoxy resin as a thermoset polymer is vulnerable to creep loading even at room temperature due to its viscoelastic nature. This study investigated the effect of reinforcing epoxy resin with different functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) contents on the creep response and post-creep residual tensile properties of nanocomposites. The creep tests were performed on the nanocomposite specimens containing different filler contents and the neat epoxy specimen at 40°C under a constant load level of 200 N. It was found that the nanocomposites containing 0.3 wt% MWCNTs experienced 29.6%, 69.1%, and 74.1% decreases in the elastic strain, creep strain, and steady-state creep strain rate, respectively, compared to the neat epoxy. Furthermore, the tensile strength and stiffness of the neat epoxy and nanocomposite specimens were evaluated before and after a partial creep test (at a load level of 200 N for 150 min) by conducting tensile tests. The nanocomposites containing 0.3 wt% MWCNTs demonstrated considerable improvements of 35.9%, 41.2%, 27.9%, and 28.1% in strength, residual strength, stiffness, and residual stiffness, respectively, compared to the neat epoxy. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy assessment was utilized to investigate the fracture surfaces of the nanocomposite specimens.
Adult refugees and asylum seekers’ basic need satisfaction and educational success in pre-study programmes in Germany
Authors: Grüttner Michael
Published: March 2024

Host country education can be crucial for the social integration as well as labour market outcomes of refugees and asylum seekers. To meet the same admission criteria for studying at German higher education institutions (HEI) as other international student applicants, refugees and asylum seekers can attend pre-study programmes at preparatory colleges or language centres of HEI. According to the self-determination theory, the satisfaction of basic psychological needs is relevant to learning motivation and success in educational contexts. This paper examines the differences in the satisfaction of basic needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness) and learning motivation between refugees and other international student applicants, and the extent to which these differences explain inequalities in the probability of success in pre-study programmes. Data from participants in pre-study programmes at 18 HEI show no significant differences in basic need satisfaction and learning motivation between the respective groups of learners. While basic need satisfaction and motivation make only a small contribution to the explanation of success in pre-study programmes, the biographical and social situation manifested in previous study experiences, age, and social resources seem to be of significance. Implications for further research and practice are discussed.
Examining Experiences of Campus Recreation Staff Who Serve College Students With Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (IDD): A Special Olympics Unified Sports® Study
Authors: Oakes Lindsey Ryan , Milroy Jeffrey , George Scott , Smith Ashlyn
Published: March 2024

Recreation and sports participation can produce social health benefits for college students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD). Despite growing numbers of college students with IDD on college campuses, literature exploring inclusion within campus recreation is limited. To understand the inclusion, or lack thereof, of college students with IDD in campus recreation, experiences and attitudes of campus recreation staff ( N = 24) were examined. A mixed methods study design, including web-based surveys and semi-structured interviews was used to collect data from participants at three North American universities. Results of Multivariate Analysis of Variance and thematic analysis revealed successes, challenges, and barriers among campus recreation staff for implementing inclusion. A significant difference in perception of campus as being more inclusive between the university with Unified Sports affiliated with Special Olympics club and the university with Unified Sports affiliated with the university was also identified. Lastly, resources and strategies for inclusion were revealed as a need.
Comparison of Fusion Rates/Complications Between Different Types of Thumb Metacarpophalangeal Fusion Techniques
Authors: Finger Logan E. , Hamaker Max C. , Singh-Varma Anya , Goitz Robert J. , Kaufmann Robert A. , Fowler John R.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Thumb metacarpophalangeal (MP) fusion is generally successful; however, complications have been reported to occur in 0% to 30% of cases, whereas nonunion rates vary by method but, overall, are reported to occur in 0% to 15% of cases. Many fixation techniques have been described, but there is no consensus on the optimal fusion technique. Our goal was to compare complication and union rates of different thumb MP arthrodesis techniques.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent primary thumb MP fusion between 2000 and 2022. Patients who underwent revision fusion, fusion for infection, or amputation were excluded. Fusions of MP joints of other fingers were also excluded. Data collection consisted of demographic data, complications, time to fusion, rate of delayed union and rate of nonunion. Five different fusion constructs were evaluated during our study period: staples, Kirschner wires (K-wires), cerclage, K-wires with cerclage, and intramedullary screw.

Results:

Forty-seven patients underwent fusion with staples, 16 with K-wires, 14 with cerclage, 9 with K-wires and cerclage, and 6 with an intramedullary screw. The individual complication and nonunion rates differed significantly among the groups with the intramedullary screw group having a statistically higher rate of nonunion ( P = .004). Furthermore, smoking, diabetes, and being overweight were associated with nonunions.

Conclusion:

Union rates were significantly lower in patients treated with an intramedullary screw and those who are smokers, diabetics, and/or overweight. Caution should be exercised when using intramedullary screw fixation for MP fusion, especially in patients with these comorbidities.
RapidpulseTM cyclic aspiration system for acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusions
Authors: Bajrami Arsida , Geyik Serdar , Ertugrul Ozgur , Erdem Eren , Gallego Leon Jose I , Barbieri Giorgio , Dominguez Rodriguez Carlos , Rayón-Aledo Jose Carlos , Barra Antonio I Sagredo , Blanco Fernando S Sanchez , Candel Carmen Serna , Montalverne Francisco Jose , Andrade Lidemarcks I , Bandeira Diego , Bezerra Jose , Carm Hellen , Silva Henrique Coelho , Braga Cruz Guedes de Morais Alessandra , de Lucena Adson Freitas , Lima Fabricio O , Mendes George , Rocha Felipe A , Kupcs Karlis , Kidikas Helmuts , Vetra Janis , Gal Gyula , Diaz Anabel , Nogueira Raul G
Published: March 2024

Background

The best strategy to achieve optimal reperfusion outcomes during mechanical thrombectomy remains to be defined. The RapidPulseTM Cyclic Aspiration System is a novel technology, delivering high-frequency pulsed vacuum forces to increase the efficiency of aspiration thrombectomy.

Methods

Prospective, multicenter, open-label, core lab-adjudicated, two-arm study comparing safety and efficacy of a feasibility version of the RapidPulseTM system compared with contemporary controls. Primary endpoint was the rate of mTICI ≥ 2c after first-pass effect (FPE). Additional efficacy endpoints were the rates of mTICI [Formula: see text] 2b after first pass (modified FPE (mFPE)), last pass with study device defined as frontline technical success, and after all passes including rescue therapy. The primary safety endpoints included symptomatic ICH (sICH) within 24 h post-procedure.

Results

Between February 2022 to December 2022, 80 subjects were consented and enrolled in the study (n = 40 treatment arm, n = 40 control arm). In the intent to treat (ITT) population, mean age was 67.8 ± 11.5 years; 19 (47.5%) were male. Median NIHSS score was 16 (IQR: 13–22). Median ASPECTS score was 9 (IQR: 8–10). The rate of mTICI ≥ 2c after first pass was 53.9% in ITT population (60.0% in per-protocol population) versus 38.5% in the corresponding control population. Functional independence (mRS 0-2) at 90 days was achieved in 61.1% (22/36) in the RapidPulseTM arm and 52.8% (19/36) in the control arm. In the RapidPulseTM arm, no sICH within 24 h and no device-related morbidity or mortality occurred.

Conclusion

Preliminary data suggests RapidPulseTM Aspiration System is highly effective and safe for recanalization of large vessel occlusions.
Exploring and Understanding the ‘Experience’ in Experience-Based Codesign: A State-of-The-Art Review
Authors: Francis-Auton Emilie , Cheek Colleen , Austin Elizabeth , Ransolin Natalia , Richardson Lieke , Safi Mariam , Hayba Nematullah , Testa Luke , Harrison Reema , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Clay-Williams Robyn
Published: March 2024

Enhancing user and provider experience are central tenets of value-based healthcare. Gaining access to personal and distinct experiential knowledge is the first stage of an experience-based codesign (EBCD) approach, underpinning the second stage of codesigned improvement: the codesign itself. This state-of-the-art review synthesised the evolving scope and nature of methods to gather experiential knowledge reported in the EBCD literature. Fifty-three of 64 (83%) scholarly EBCD articles reviewed were published since 2017. Methods are evolving to promote inclusivity of diverse user groups and move more rapidly to codesign. However, omitted steps in the methodology undermined fulfilment of core principles of the EBCD approach which may diminish its value as an accepted form of codesign. Experiential knowledge is crucial for designing user-centred health care. The challenge lies in making healthcare experience methods accessible. This review provides guidance on key steps in the first stage of the EBCD approach and modifications that may overcome barriers while upholding core principles and meeting the objectives of the inquiry.
Jingfang Granules May Improve Early Pancreatic Cancer by Modulating Immune Response Through RUNX3
Authors: Ge Weiping , Li Yuting , Pan Sina , Ma Fenghui , Li Min , Yan Lei , Meng Xue , Ma Huiying , Li Guangyan , Yao Jingchun , Li Tao
Published: March 2024

Objective: Jingfang granule (JFG) is a modified formulation of Jingfang Baidu Power for the treatment of influenza and infectious diseases. Recent studies show that JFG may inhibit the development of cancer but the effect of JFG on methylation in early pancreatic cancer has remained unclear. In this study, we aim to investigate the potential effect of JFG on gene methylation of early pancreatic cancer. Methods: We treated golden hamsters with N-Nitrosobis(2-oxopropyl)amine (BOP) to induce early pancreatic cancer and detected the gene methylation of pancreatic cancer tissue. The gene ontology (GO) analysis and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome (KEGG) analysis were performed in this study. Results: The GO analysis demonstrated that there was no significantly correlated GO term enrichment from differentially methylated genes. And the KEGG analysis found that the top enriched term was the Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation pathway. Four differentially methylated genes were discovered in the Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation pathway of which RUNX3 was associated with pancreatic cancer development. Conclusion: The results investigate that JFG may improve early pancreatic cancer by activating the immune response by inhibiting RUNX3 methylation. This research provides a theoretical basis for the prevention and improvement of early pancreatic cancer in clinical treatment with traditional Chinese medicine.
Studies on Differentially Expressed Genes of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum and Its Antitumor Activity
Authors: Chen Guanping , Li Jing , Lu Yingyan , Cao Jili , Lai Liqin
Published: March 2024

Objective: To analyze highly expressed genes in Tetrastigma hemsleyanum roots and the in vitro antitumor effects of extracts from different parts of this plant. Methods: The expression profiles of the roots, stems, and leaves of T hemsleyanum were analyzed via high-throughput sequencing technology with the Illumina Genome Analyzer platform. Then, gene ontology (GO) functional and pathway enrichment analyses of the significantly differentially expressed genes were performed. The inhibition rates of the extracts from different plant parts were determined through the CCK-8 method. Results: Genes related to catalytic activity and cytochrome P450 were upregulated in roots compared with leaves. The genes that we screened that were expressed at high levels in the roots may play an important role in the accumulation of active ingredients. GO functional enrichment analysis revealed that there were substantial differences in genes related to metabolic processes in roots compared with those in stems, and KEGG analysis revealed significant differences in genes related to the zeatin biosynthesis and diterpenoid biosynthesis pathways. Moreover, the expression of genes related to catalytic activity, ion binding, and hydrolase activity differed significantly between the roots and leaves, and KEGG analysis revealed significant differences in the expression of genes related to terpenoid biosynthesis and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways. Quantitative PCR indicated that Thhg was highly expressed in roots. The total triterpene content was also high in the tissue. The CCK-8 assays showed that the root ethanol extract had the highest antitumor activity. Conclusion: The genes we screened that were expressed at high levels in the roots may play an important role in the accumulation of active ingredients. Importantly, stem and leaf ethanol extracts also showed certain antitumor effects on human HCC Huh-7 and Hep3B cells in vitro and may also have medicinal value.
Social media performance in school: Youth practice of humor and resistance through TikTok trends
Authors: Berwick Carly
Published: March 2024

Youth representations of school on social media offer critical glimpses of student conceptions of their roles and agency within the institution. Current research on youth public performances on social media applications such as TikTok describe them primarily as reflections of how social media use acts on youth and, less often, as ways that youth can develop agency through social media. Much less examined is how youth use social media to practice resistance to dominant narratives. Using literary scholar Mikhail Bakhtin’s concept of the carnivalesque as a lens into youth social media performances in and about school, this investigation asks to what extent do public social media videos in and about school allow for youth practice of resistance to dominant narratives of control. Focusing on two different samples of TikTok videos taken in school, the first a time sample of seven videos and the second a close reading of six videos of a hashtag-based search, this analysis examines humor and parody as a space of resistance in youth expression and emphasizes the need to consider how educators and systems create and uphold official hierarchies that necessitate a vibrant second world of youth-created play.
The Effects of Institutional Supports on Farm Entrepreneurial Performance: Exploring the Mediating Role of Entrepreneurial Orientation
Authors: Osei Charles Dwumfour , Zhuang Jincai
Published: March 2024

Despite the numerous contributions from farm entrepreneurship to economic development, including food security and rural poverty alleviation, most farm enterprises often fail due to institutional challenges in developing countries. Based on this perspective, the study investigates the effect of different institutional contexts, such as regulatory, normative, and cognitive institutions, on the performance of farm enterprises. The study further evaluates the mediating role of farm Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) in the Institution-Venture performance relationship. We employ the PLS-SEM technique to analyze data collected from 371 farm enterprises in Ghana. The findings from the study emphasize that Regulatory, Normative, and Cognitive institutions have positive and significant indirect effects on farm business performance through the partial mediating role of EO. While regulatory and normative institutions have a negative direct effect on farm venture performance, the results show that cognitive institutions have positive and significant effects on farm business performance. The study confirms the positive and significant impacts of institutions on farm-level EO. The findings imply that farm entrepreneurship can be improved by strengthening regulatory, normative, and cognitive institutions to offer conducive support for farm businesses in developing countries.
Responsiveness of the Various Short-Form Versions of the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Between 2 and 5 Years After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Webster Kate E. , Klemm Haydn J. , Whitehead Timothy S. , Norsworthy Cameron J. , Feller Julian A.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Various short-form versions of the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) have been developed in an attempt to minimize responder burden. However, the responsiveness of these short-form measures in patients who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction has not been compared at midterm follow-up.

Purpose:

To determine the responsiveness of 3 short-form versions of the KOOS (KOOS-12, KOOS-Global, and KOOS-ACL) in patients who have undergone ACL reconstruction.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

In 276 patients (149 male, 127 female), we administered the KOOS and a measure of overall knee function at both 2 and 5 years after ACL reconstruction. From the full KOOS, the following short-form versions were calculated: KOOS-12, KOOS-Global, and KOOS-ACL. Responsiveness was assessed using several distribution and anchor-based methods for each of the short-form versions. From distribution statistics the standardized response mean (SRM) and smallest detectable change (SDC) were calculated. Using the anchor-based method, the minimally important change (MIC) that was associated with an improvement in knee function was determined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results:

High ceiling effects were present for all measures. KOOS-Global scores increased significantly over time, whereas KOOS-12 and KOOS-ACL did not change. The KOOS-Quality of Life (QOL) subscale, which can be derived from both KOOS-Global and KOOS-12, also increased significantly between assessments. Both these increases were associated with a small (0.2-0.3) SRM. The MIC was smallest for KOOS-Global (3.2 points) and largest for KOOS-QOL (9.4 points), and, for all measures, the MIC was larger than the SDC at a group level. KOOS-Global was the only measure for which the mean difference between the 2- and 5-year assessments exceeded both the SDC (group level) and the MIC.

Conclusion:

Of the 3 short-form versions of the KOOS currently available, the KOOS-Global had the greatest responsiveness to change between the 2- and 5-year assessments after ACL reconstruction. High ceiling effects were present for all versions.
Measuring Lineage: Implications for Family Violence Research in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Tenkorang Eric Y. , Owusu Adobea Y.
Published: March 2024

Previous research on family violence in sub-Saharan Africa highlighted the importance of lineage to women’s experiences of intimate partner violence (IPV). The findings suggest women in patrilineal societies face a greater risk of experiencing IPV than those in matrilineal societies. However, a major critique of this body of work is the operationalization of lineage with ethnicity. This study highlights the weaknesses/strengths of using ethnicity as a proxy for lineage by comparing it to direct measures of lineage. Specifically, we tested the validity of lumping ethnic groups together to create lineage categories against measures that directly ask respondents to self-identify their lineage. We also explored the effects of lineage on different types of IPV. We used representative cross-sectional data collected between May and August 2022 from 1,624 ever-married Ghanaian women aged 18 years and older and residing in three major ecological zones—Coastal, Middle, and Northern Zones—that reflect differences in ecology, culture, and modernity in Ghana. Descriptive and multivariate statistical techniques were used to analyze the data. The findings suggest significant differences in direct (self-identified) and indirect (ethnic) measures of lineage. The majority of respondents who were classified as matrilineal or patrilineal based on their ethnic backgrounds self-reported as belonging to these lineage categories. Both direct and indirect measures of lineage were significantly associated with IPV. However, given the limited operationalization of lineage based on ethnicity, self-identified measures were more useful. While ethnicity remains an important proxy for lineage, self-identified measures of the construct are better if available.
Alternative Payment Models and Patient-Reported Quality of Preparation for Discharge: A Retrospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Lin Sunny C. , Adler-Milstein Julia , Hollingsworth John M. , Ryan Andrew
Published: March 2024

Preparing patients for posthospital care may improve readmission risk. Alternative payment models (APMs) incent hospitals to reduce readmissions by tying payment to outcomes. The impact of APMs on preparation for discharge is not well understood. We assessed whether patient-reported preparation for posthospital care was associated with reduced readmissions, and whether APM participation was associated with improved preparation for posthospital care. We used mixed-effects regression on retrospective (2013–2017) observational data for 2685 U.S. hospitals. We measured patient-reported preparation for posthospital care using the 3-Item Care Transition Measure and readmission using 30-day all-cause risk-adjusted readmissions from Hospital Compare. Participation in accountable care organizations (ACOs), Medical Homes, and Medicare's Bundled Payments for Care Improvement program was obtained from Medicare, the American Hospital Association's Annual Survey, and Leavitt Partner's ACO database. We found that APMs are not associated with improved preparation for posthospital care, even though it was associated with reduced readmissions (Marginal Effect: −0.012 percentage points). This may be because hospitals are not investing in patient engagement. This study has limited insight into causality and reduced generalizability among smaller, rural, and non-teaching hospitals.
American Society of Retina Specialists Clinical Practice Guidelines on Multimodal Imaging for Retinal Disease
Authors: Ramakrishnan Meera S. , Kovach Jaclyn L. , Wykoff Charlie C. , Berrocal Audina M. , Modi Yasha S.
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Advancements in retinal imaging have augmented our understanding of the pathology and structure–function relationships of retinal disease. No single diagnostic test is sufficient; rather, diagnostic and management strategies increasingly involve the synthesis of multiple imaging modalities. Methods: This literature review and editorial offer practical clinical guidelines for how the retina specialist can use multimodal imaging to manage retinal conditions. Results: Various imaging modalities offer information on different aspects of retinal structure and function. For example, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and B-scan ultrasonography can provide insights into the microstructural anatomy; fluorescein angiography (FA), indocyanine green angiography (ICGA), and OCT angiography (OCTA) can reveal vascular integrity and perfusion status; and near-infrared reflectance and fundus autofluorescence (FAF) can characterize molecular components within tissues. Managing retinal vascular diseases often includes fundus photography, OCT, OCTA, and FA to evaluate for macular edema, retinal ischemia, and the secondary complications of neovascularization (NV). OCT and FAF play a key role in diagnosing and treating maculopathies. FA, OCTA, and ICGA can help identify macular NV, posterior uveitis, and choroidal venous insufficiency, which guides treatment strategies. Finally, OCT and B-scan ultrasonography can help with preoperative planning and prognostication in vitreoretinal surgical conditions. Conclusions: Today, the retina specialist has access to numerous retinal imaging modalities that can augment the clinical examination to help diagnose and manage retinal conditions. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of each modality is critical to maximizing its clinical utility.
Effectiveness and Safety of Sacubitril/Valsartan in Heart Failure in India: A Retrospective Real-world (SAVE) Study
Authors: Sachdeva Abhishek , Shukla Ankit , Mayabhate Mayur , Kapure Nitin
Published: March 2024

Background

Sacubitril/Valsartan is one of the pillars of heart failure (HF) management. Little is known about its uses or impact in real-world practice in the Indian population. We evaluated the effectiveness and Safety of Sacubitril/Valsartan in Heart Failure in India.

Methods

This retrospective analysis involved newly diagnosed adult patients of HF (class I–IV, per physician clinical assessment and discretion), treated in a tertiary care hospital during period of February–April 2023 and received Sacubitril/Valsartan. N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels were measured in addition to demographics, clinical symptoms, comorbidities, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Following three months of Sacubitril/Valsartan medication, changes in LVEF, NT-proBNP levels, and clinical symptoms (graded from 1 to 10, with 10 being the maximum severity) were assessed.

Results

Out of 60 patients eligible for the study, 57% were males and 43% were females. Mean body weight was 60.26 ± 7.00 kg, while mean BP was 130/81 mmHg. 60% patients had both type 2 diabetes and hypertension as comorbidity. There was 23% improvement in LVEF (from mean LVEF of 34 to 42, P < .0001), with a significant decrease in NT-proBNP levels (mean 1220.5 pg/mL to 118.1 pg/mL, P < .0001) after treatment with Sacubitril/Valsartan for 3 months, resulted in marked improvement in clinical symptoms of breathlessness (mean score decreased from 6 to 2, P < .05), edema (mean score decreased from 5.5 to 1.8, P < .05) and palpitations (mean score decreased from 2.4 to 1.1, P < .05. 50 mg BD was the most commonly used dose of Sacubitril/Valsartan (70% patients), followed by 100 mg BD (25% patients) and rest (5%) with 200 mg BD dose. Treatment with Sacubitril/Valsartan was well tolerated, with <5% patients reporting hypotension.

Conclusion

The findings of this real-world study suggest Sacubitril/Valsartan was associated with an increase in ejection fraction translating into symptomatic improvement in Indian patients of HF.
Mathematics teaching for migrant students in German schools—How do teachers respond to their students’ diverse needs?
Authors: Lüssenhop Maike , Kaiser Gabriele
Published: March 2024

The increase in international migration and the global number of students learning mathematics through a language other than their home language makes migrants’ educational pathways a particularly urgent issue. The current paper focuses on the German context as Germany is currently one of the major immigration countries in the Western context. Because German is widely perceived as the language of opportunity for migrants in the German school system, it is overwhelmingly the selected language of learning and teaching in the broader school system and within migrant classes. The article is based on qualitative interviews with mathematics teachers teaching migrant classes; and the data analysis followed the Grounded theory tradition. The central phenomenon that seemed to preoccupy all teachers was how to adapt mathematics teaching to the language- and mathematics-related diversity of their students while simultaneously helping them to transfer smoothly to the mainstream classes or pass the final examinations successfully. Due to the lack of institutional support for teaching in migrant classes and problems in dealing with multilingualism and mathematics-related diversity in mathematics lessons, they were generally frustrated with the situation despite being strongly motivated at first. Using three examples from the data, we illustrate teachers' strategies in relation to multilingualism and mathematics-related diversity. Overall, the study points to the necessity of supporting teachers in their mathematical practices in migrant classes to contribute to more inclusive mathematics education.
Connecting Chronic Pain and Opioid Use Disorder Clinical Trials Through Data Harmonization: Wake Forest IMPOWR Dissemination, Education, and Coordination Center (IDEA-CC)
Authors: Adams Meredith C. B. , Hurley Robert W. , Topaloglu Umit
Published: March 2024

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has developed the NIH HEAL Integrative Management of chronic Pain and OUD for Whole Recovery (IMPOWR) network to address the interconnected nature of chronic pain (CP) and opioid use disorder (OUD), which are influenced by mental health. The network aims to develop integrated treatment pathways across multiple sites in the United States. The IMPOWR Dissemination, Education, and Coordination Center (IDEA-CC) is proposed to support the NIH HEAL IMPOWR network by developing a CP- and OUD-focused infrastructure that includes measures of stigma, trauma, and quality of life. This includes deploying a data framework to link clinical sites, developing an educational infrastructure to address stigma and health disparities, and disseminating research findings. The IDEA-CC will standardize data collection processes, develop web-based data commons, and facilitate data sharing opportunities. The IDEA-CC will support the development and validation of composite CP and OUD measures and will develop educational materials to address stigma and health disparities. Overall, the IDEA-CC will create a research community and data commons that connect NIH HEAL IMPOWR centers to translate findings and develop a key CP-OUD research data, and education infrastructure.
An oral carbon monoxide–releasing molecule protects against acute hyperhemolysis in sickle cell disease
Authors: Nguyen Kim Anh , Matte Alessandro , Foresti Roberta , Federti Enrica , Kiger Laurent , Lefebvre Cécile , Hocini Hakim , Pelinski Yanis , Kitagishi Hiroaki , Bencheikh Laura , Pirenne France , de Franceschi Lucia , Motterlini Roberto , Bartolucci Pablo
Published: March 2024

Acute hyperhemolysis is a severe life-threatening complication in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) that may occur during delayed hemolytic transfusion reaction (DHTR), or vaso-occlusive crises associated with multiorgan failure. Here, we developed in vitro and in vivo animal models to mimic endothelial damage during the early phase of hyperhemolysis in SCD. We then used the carbon monoxide (CO)–releasing molecule CORM-401 and examined its effects against endothelial activation, damage, and inflammation inflicted by hemolysates containing red blood cell membrane–derived particles. The in vitro results revealed that CORM-401: (1) prevented the upregulation of relevant proinflammatory and proadhesion markers controlled by the NF-κB enhancer of activated B cells, and (2) abolished the expression of the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) that regulates the inducible antioxidant cell machinery. We also show in SCD mice that CORM-401 protects against hemolysate-induced acute damage of target organs such as the lung, liver, and kidney through modulation of NF-κB proinflammatory and Nrf2 antioxidant pathways. Our data demonstrate the efficacy of CORM-401 as a novel therapeutic agent to counteract hemolysate-induced organ damage during hyperhemolysis in SCD. This approach might be considered as possible preventive treatment in high-risk situations such as patients with SCD with history of DHTR.
Mild hyperthermia via gold nanoparticles and visible light irradiation for enhanced siRNA and ASO delivery in 2D and 3D tumour spheroids
Authors: Ferreira Daniela , Fernandes Alexandra R. , Baptista Pedro V.
Published: March 2024

Background

The delivery of therapeutic nucleic acids, such as small interfering RNA (siRNA) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) into cells, is widely used in gene therapy. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have proved to be effective in delivering silencing moieties with high efficacy. Moreover, AuNPs offer the possibility of spatial–temporal triggering of cell uptake through light irradiation due to their unique optical properties. Our study focuses on the use of AuNPs as improved vectorisation agents through mild photothermy triggered by visible light irradiation. This method promotes the transfection of oligonucleotides for gene silencing in 2D cells and more complex 3D spheroids.

Results

Improving gene silencing strategies in 3D cell cultures is crucial since it provides more effective in vitro models to study cellular responses that closely resemble the in vivo tumour microenvironment. We demonstrate the potential of mild photothermy by effectively silencing the GFP gene in 2D cell cultures: HCT116 and MCF-7. Then we showed that mild photothermy could be effectively used for silencing the c-MYC oncogene transcript, which is greatly overexpressed in cancer cells. A decrease of 25% and 30% in c-MYC expression was observed in HCT116 2D cells and 7-day 3D spheroids, respectively.

Conclusions

In summary, our findings offer a novel transfection approach for gene therapy applications in 2D and 3D tumour models. This approach is based on the use of mild photothermy mediated by AuNPs combined with visible laser irradiation that might pave the way for the spatial–temporal control of gene modulation.
Exploring the ageing methylome in the model insect, Nasonia vitripennis
Authors: Brink K. , Thomas C. L. , Jones A. , Chan T. W. , Mallon E. B.
Published: March 2024

Background

The ageing process is a multifaceted phenomenon marked by the gradual deterioration of cellular and organismal functions, accompanied by an elevated susceptibility to diseases. The intricate interplay between genetic and environmental factors complicates research, particularly in complex mammalian models. In this context, simple invertebrate organisms have been pivotal, but the current models lack detectable DNA methylation limiting the exploration of this critical epigenetic ageing mechanism.

This study introduces Nasonia vitripennis, the jewel wasp, as an innovative invertebrate model for investigating the epigenetics of ageing. Leveraging its advantages as a model organism and possessing a functional DNA methylation system, Nasonia emerges as a valuable addition to ageing research.

Results

Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing unveiled dynamic alterations in DNA methylation, with differentially methylated CpGs between distinct time points in both male and female wasps. These changes were associated with numerous genes, enriching for functions related to telomere maintenance, histone methylation, and mRNA catabolic processes. Additionally, other CpGs were found to be variably methylated at each timepoint. Sex-specific effects on epigenetic entropy were observed, indicating differential patterns in the loss of epigenetic stability over time. Constructing an epigenetic clock containing 19 CpGs revealed a robust correlation between epigenetic age and chronological age.

Conclusions

Nasonia vitripennis emerges as a promising model for investigating the epigenetics of ageing, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of DNA methylation and their implications for age-related processes. This research not only expands the repertoire of ageing models but also opens avenues for deeper exploration of epigenetic mechanisms in the context of ageing.
Lyme borreliosis and medical wandering: what do patients think about multidisciplinary management? A qualitative study in the context of scientific and social controversy
Authors: Raffetin Alice , Puppo Costanza , Chahour Amal , Belkasmi Assia , Baux Elisabeth , Patrat-Delon Solène , Caraux-Paz Pauline , Rivière Julie , Gallien Sébastien
Published: March 2024

Introduction

To answer to patients’ medical wandering, often due to “unexplained symptoms” of “unexplained diseases” and to misinformation, multidisciplinary care centers for suspected Lyme borreliosis (LB), such as the 5 Tick-Borne Diseases (TBDs) Reference Centers (TBD-RC), were created a few years ago in France, the Netherlands and Denmark. Our study consisted of a comprehensive analysis of the satisfaction of the patients managed at a TBD-RC for suspected LB in the context of scientific and social controversy.

Methods

We included all adults who were admitted to one of the TBD-RC from 2017 to 2020. A telephone satisfaction survey was conducted 12 months after their first consultation. It consisted of 5 domains, including 2 free-text items: “What points did you enjoy?” and “What would you like us to change or to improve?”. In the current study, the 2 free-items were analyzed with a qualitative method called reflexive thematic analysis within a semantic and latent approach.

Results

The answer rate was 61.3% (349/569) and 97 distinctive codes from the 2-free-text items were identified and classified into five themes: (1) multidisciplinarity makes it possible to set up quality time dedicated to patients; (2) multidisciplinarity enables seamless carepaths despite the public hospital crisis compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic; (3) multidisciplinarity is defined as trust in the team’s competences; (4) an ambivalent opinion and uncertainty are barriers to acceptance of the diagnosis, reflecting the strong influence of the controversy around LB; and (5) a lack of adapted communication about TBDs, their management, and ongoing research is present.

Conclusion

The multidisciplinary management for suspected LB seemed an answer to medical wandering for the majority of patients and helped avoid misinformation, enabling better patient-centered shared information and satisfaction, despite the context of controversy.