bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supervising Local Cadres in China: The Quest for Authoritarian Accountability
Authors: Zhuang Meixi
Published: September 2023

This article examines the compatibility of authoritarianism and accountability through groundbreaking research on citizen supervision of local state agents, a novel form of accountability politics that has been underway in China for a decade. Based on an in-depth political ethnography of the Citizen Monitoring Organization in Wenzhou, this article examines how the authoritarian instrument that produces relations of domination can be turned into a bonanza for public accountability. The article demonstrates that local leaders may encourage citizens to help restrain the exercise of power in the lower state echelons when agent malfeasance is considered a threat to local leaders' career advancement. This opportunity structure leads to the mechanism of “state-backed supervision”: enlisted citizen participants draw on the delegated and entitled authority of the state to demand accountability from local state agents. Examining the logic, dynamics, limitations, and outcomes of state-backed supervision, this article identifies a novel pathway to accountability in authoritarianism.
Evaluation of a new magnetically suspended centrifugal neonatal pump in healthy animals using a veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation configuration
Authors: Di Nardo Matteo , Moreau Anthony , Annoni Filippo , Su Fuhong , Belliato Mirko , Broman Lars Mikael , Malfertheiner Maximilian , Lorusso Roberto , Taccone Fabio Silvio
Published: September 2023

Background

The objective of this animal study was to evaluate the hemodynamic performance of a new centrifugal pump for extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support in neonates.

Methods

Six healthy swines were supported with veno-venous ECMO with the New Born ECMOLife centrifugal pump (Eurosets, Medolla, Italy) at different flow rates: 0.25, 0.5, 0.6, and 0.8 L/min; three animals were evaluated at low-flows (0.25 and 0.5 L/min) and three at high-flows (0.6 and 0.8 L/min). Each flow was maintained for 4 hours. Blood samples were collected at different time-points. Hematological and biochemical parameters and ECMO parameters [flow, revolutions per minute (RPM), drainage pressure, and the oxygenator pressure drop] were evaluated.

Results

The increase of the pump flow from 0.25 to 0.5 L/min or from 0.6 to 0.8 L/min required significantly higher RPM and produced significantly higher pump pressures [from 0.25 to 0.5 L/min: 1470 (1253–1569) versus 2652 (2589–2750) RPM and 40 (26–57) versus 125 (113–139) mmHg, respectively; p < .0001 for both - from 0.60 to 0.8 L/min: 1950 (1901–2271) versus 2428 (2400–2518) RPM and 66 (62–86) versus 106 (101–113) mmHg, respectively; p < .0001 for both]. Median drainage pressure significantly decreased from −18 (−22; −16) mmHg to −55 (−63; −48) mmHg when the pump flow was increased from 0.25 to 0.5 L/min ( p < .0001). When pump flow increased from 0.6 to 0.8 L/min, drainage pressure decreased from −32 (−39; −24) mmHg to −50 (−52; −43) mmHg, ( p < .0001). Compared to pre-ECMO values, the median levels of lactate dehydrogenase, d-dimer, hematocrit, and platelet count decreased after ECMO start at all flow rates, probably due to hemodilution. Plasma-free hemoglobin, instead, showed a modest increase compared to pre-ECMO values during all experiments at different pump flow rates. However, these changes were not clinically relevant.

Conclusions

In this animal study, the “New Born ECMOLife” centrifugal pump showed good hemodynamic performance. Long-term studies are needed to evaluate biocompatibility of this new ECMO pump.
Macromarketing Pedagogy at the 2023 Conference
Authors: Stanton Julie V.
Published: September 2023

This commentary summarizes the presentations made during two sessions at the 2023 Macromarketing Conference held in Seattle in June. The two sessions were focused on macromarketing pedagogy, and offer examples of how we can further macromarketing understanding in our students.
The Association Between Self-Reported Anxiety and Retention in Opioid Agonist Therapy: Findings From a Canadian Pragmatic Trial
Authors: Bahji Anees , Bastien Gabriel , Bach Paxton , Choi JinCheol , Le Foll Bernard , Lim Ron , Jutras-Aswad Didier , Socias M. Eugenia
Published: September 2023

Background

Prescription-type opioid use disorder (POUD) is often accompanied by comorbid anxiety, yet the impact of anxiety on retention in opioid agonist therapy (OAT) is unclear. Therefore, this study investigated whether baseline anxiety severity affects retention in OAT and whether this effect differs by OAT type (methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) vs. buprenorphine/naloxone (BNX)).

Methods

This secondary analysis used data from a pan-Canadian randomized trial comparing flexible take-home dosing BNX and standard supervised MMT for 24 weeks. The study included 268 adults with POUD. Baseline anxiety was assessed using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), with BAI ≥ 16 indicating moderate-to-severe anxiety. The primary outcomes were retention in assigned and any OAT at week 24. In addition, the impact of anxiety severity on retention was examined, and assigned OAT was considered an effect modifier.

Results

Of the participants, 176 (65%) reported moderate-to-severe baseline anxiety. In adjusted analyses, there was no significant difference in retention between those with BAI ≥ 16 and those with BAI < 16 assigned (29% vs. 28%; odds ratio (OR) = 2.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.94–4.40; P = 0.07) or any OAT (35% vs. 34%; OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 0.77–3.21; P = 0.21). In addition, there was no significant effect modification by OAT type for retention in assigned ( P = 0.41) or any OAT ( P = 0.71). In adjusted analyses, greater retention in treatment was associated with BNX (vs. MMT), male gender identity (vs. female, transgender, or other), enrolment in the Quebec study site (vs. other sites), and absence of a positive urine drug screen for stimulants at baseline.

Conclusions

Baseline anxiety severity did not significantly impact retention in OAT for adults with POUD, and there was no significant effect modification by OAT type. However, the overall retention rates were low, highlighting the need to develop new strategies to minimize the risk of attrition from treatment.

Clinical Trial Registration

This study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03033732).
An experimentally validated anisotropic visco-hyperelastic constitutive model for knitted fabric-reinforced elastomer composites
Authors: Li Rui , Zhang Dianyun
Published: September 2023

A new anisotropic visco-hyperelastic constitutive model has been developed to predict the time-dependent deformation response of flexible, knitted fabric-reinforced elastomer composites. These composites exhibit a time-dependent response due to the viscoelastic behavior of the elastomer, while the anisotropic reinforcement effect is attributed to the knitted fabrics. The proposed modeling approach features an invariant-based strain energy density function that incorporates the architecture of knitted fabrics and the hyper-viscoelastic behavior of elastomers. In this study, the elastomer is considered as a viscous neo-Hookean material, and the knitted fabrics are modeled as cords with negligible stiffness in bending. The proposed material model is implemented in commercial Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software, Abaqus (version 2017), through a user-defined material subroutine, UMAT. This approach enables the determination of the constitutive behavior of the composite based on the constituent elastomer, fiber properties, and fabric architectures. The proposed model is verified through a discrete 3D FEA model, in which the elastomer and fabric reinforcement are modeled explicitly. The approach is further validated through physical testing including uniaxial tension, torsion, and three-point bending. Since the proposed strain energy-based constitutive model can predict the deformation response of knitted fabric-reinforced elastomer composites based on the fabric architecture, it can be employed as an efficient modeling tool to aid the design of knitting pattern for target mechanical properties.
Sweden – a nation of seafarers or peasants? Swedish naval officers and national identity as revealed in the magazine Vår Flotta, 1905–1939
Authors: Linderoth Andreas
Published: September 2023

Swedish national identity reflects a tradition of independent freeholding peasants, even though the majority of the population lives along the coasts. The sea has often been neglected in studies analysing Swedish national identity. This article analyses one of many Swedish narratives of national identity – namely, that found in the monthly magazine Vår Flotta: Tidskrift för Sjövapnet (Our Fleet: Magazine for the Navy). The narrative of the magazine strongly emphasized the importance of the sea to Sweden. The sea, with its strong symbolism, was a vital part of the magazine's national narrative. According to Vår Flotta, the sea and its control would determine Sweden's fate as it had historically. The navy had saved Sweden from being dragged into a war or being invaded by foreign powers. A close connection to the sea, facing its dangers, would also allow the true Swedish national qualities to develop: bravery, calmness, confidence, cleanliness and a willingness to make sacrifices for the greater good. The national-identity narrative in the magazine remained fairly constant across the 35 years studied in this article.
Theoretical statements on life projects: A scoping review
Authors: Coscioni Vinicius , Portugal Marc Antoine , Teixeira Marco Antônio Pereira , Paixão Maria Paula
Published: September 2023

This scoping review identified and synthesized the theoretical statements on life projects contained in articles indexed in databases of psychology and related fields. Six online databases were searched for articles using the term life project in their titles, abstracts, or keywords. Only articles that contained theoretical statements on life projects were included, yielding 93 manuscripts. A total of 15 theoretical approaches from diverse fields were identified. A thematic analysis with the articles’ theoretical statements resulted in six themes describing different properties and correlates of life projects. Another thematic analysis, based on the articles’ explicit life project definitions, resulted in four defining features. The findings reveal that the theoretical approaches and life project definitions conflict with each other. However, the theoretical dimensions and defining features enabled the identification of commonalities across the theories. Future studies need to integrate these distinct theoretical dimensions and defining features to form a comprehensive theory of the life project.
Risk factors of pulmonary arterial hypertension in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Yuqi , Cheng Zhen , Zha Bowen , Chen Xiaodong , Gong Zhiyu , Ji Lang , Wei Lingling
Published: September 2023

Objective

To determine the risk factors of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) related to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) through systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

Methods

We undertook electronic search strategies using Medline via PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library up to April 11, 2023. Study selection and data extraction were performed by 2 authors independently. We made risk of bias judgments based on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Pooled risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the overall effect sizes of potential risk factors for PAH in SLE patients. Univariate and multivariate meta-regression models were used to assess the independent effects of each risk factor on PAH. Sensitivity analyses were also conducted to explore potential sources of heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 19 articles were included in this meta-analysis, and the results showed that gender (female) [RR = 1.04, 95% CI (1.02, 1.06), p = .0001], interstitial lung disease [RR = 4.36, 95% CI (2.42, 7.85), p = .0001], alopecia [RR = 1.39, 95% CI (1.06, 1.83), p = .017], Raynaud’s phenomenon [RR = 1.83, 95% CI (1.41, 2.37), p = .0001], systemic hypertension [RR = 1.30, 95% CI (1.07, 1.58), p = .007], serositis [RR = 2.29, 95% CI (1.89, 2.77), p = .0001], pericardial effusion [RR = 3.33, 95% CI (2.20, 5.05), p = .0001], anti-RNP [RR = 1.86, 95% CI (1.19, 2.91), p = .006], anti-SSA [RR = 1.28, 95% CI (1.01, 1.62), p = .041], anti-SSB [RR = 1.38, 95% CI (1.19, 1.60), p = .0001], anti-U1RNP [RR = 1.58, 95% CI (1.07, 2.34), p = .023], thrombocytopenia [RR = 1.38, 95% CI (1.14, 1.68), p = .001], and current smokers [RR = 2.20, 95% CI (1.19, 4.06), p = .012] were all risk factors for PAH related to SLE.

Conclusion

PAH is a serious complication of SLE. Since prognosis of SLE patients after the occurrence of PAH is poor, routine examination should be conducted for SLE patients with PAH risk factors.
Coating-Free Culture Medium for Establishing and Maintaining Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Lin Chih-Yao , Ching Yu-Yun , Wu Shih-Fang , Lee Yi-Ko , Fan Hueng-Chuen , Su Liang-Yu , Tsai Su-Yi , Chen Yu-Ching , Shen Ching-I , Su Hong-Lin
Published: September 2023

Cell expansion of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) commonly depends on Matrigel as a coating matrix on two-dimensional (2D) culture plates and 3D microcarriers. However, the xenogenic Matrigel requires sophisticated quality-assurance processes to meet clinical requirements. In this study, we develop an innovative coating-free medium for expanding hPSCs. The xenofree medium supports the weekend-free culture and competitive growth of hPSCs on several cell culture plastics without an additional pre-coating process. The pluripotent stemness of the expanded cells is stably sustained for more than 10 passages, featured with high pluripotent marker expressions, normal karyotyping, and differentiating capacity for three germ layers. The expression levels of some integrins are reduced, compared with those of the hPSCs on Matrigel. This medium also successfully supports the clonal expansion and induced pluripotent stem cell establishment from mitochondrial-defective MELAS (mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes) patient’s peripheral blood mononuclear cells. This innovative hPSC medium provides a straightforward scale-up process for producing clinical-orientated hPSCs by excluding the conventional coating procedure.
Entrepreneurial Practices and Employment Development in India: An Empirical Analysis of Post-COVID
Authors: Sahu Praveen , Pandey Shubham
Published: September 2023

Entrepreneurship in India is a catalyst for a nation’s growth and development. Other countries, like Japan, Russia, the USA, have remarkable growth in entrepreneurial practices, which also leads to their country’s growth and prosperity. Their economies are much more robust and self-dependent. It contributes considerably to production, and this sector creates nearly one-third of total export. The study explores the impact of entrepreneurial registrations on the country’s economic development, especially employment. Unemployment in the country is a major problem that needs to be tackled. A country’s growth and development have a robust positive relationship with the number of its population’s employment. A country with colossal work has excellent development chances as the economy’s demand and supply side is balanced. The study aims to find the statistical relationship between entrepreneurial rolls and employment generation. It has used the existing literature as a secondary source to fulfil this purpose. Some statistical tools are employed to check the trend and relationship between the variable and concludes that entrepreneurship has a vast potential to solve various economic problems. Still, it needs proper guidelines, assistance and support (financial, technical and legal) to boost economic condition.
American Psychiatric Nurses Association Position: Staffing Inpatient Psychiatric Units
Authors: Johnson Celeste , Delaney Kathleen R. , Cirpili Avni , Marriott Suzie , O’Connor Janette
Published: September 2023

OBJECTIVE:

An American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA) task force reviewed current staffing research to revise and update the 2011 APNA “Staffing inpatient psychiatric units” position paper and provide recommendations to the APNA Board of Directors on how psychiatric mental health (PMH) nurses might champion the staffing needs of inpatient psychiatric units.

METHODS:

Current research on staffing and nursing practice in inpatient psychiatric units was reviewed as well as variables believed to influence staffing and nursing practice, such as consumer needs and workplace culture. Since current nurse staffing principles emphasize nursing value and how that value is connected to outcomes, the literature search included a focus on staffing and related patient outcomes.

RESULTS:

PMH nurses are critical to the safety and quality of care in inpatient psychiatric units. However, there are little existing data on the relationship between staffing levels and even common adverse events such as staff injury and restraint of patients. Furthermore, there is scant research conducted on inpatient psychiatric units that informs optimal staffing models or establishes links between staffing and patient outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS:

Consistent with current evidence, the universal use of a single method or model of determining staffing needs (e.g., nursing hours per, case mix index, or mandatory ratios) is not recommended. PMH nurses should champion systematic evaluation of staffing on their inpatient units against select patient, nurse, and system outcomes. A data repository of PMH nurse-sensitive outcomes is necessary to benchmark unit performance and staffing.
Demographics of referrals to a specialist gender identity service in the UK between 2017 and 2020
Authors: Masala Bibi , Love Amy , Carmichael Polly , Masic Una
Published: September 2023

Trends in clinical referrals to specialist gender services historically comprised more assigned male at birth young people. In the last decade, this has shifted in adolescent samples to more assigned female young people. An updated review of the current patterns of referrals is important to better understand the potential changing needs of clinically referred gender-diverse children and adolescents. We assessed the demographics of referrals to the Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) and their attendance patterns from 2017 to 2020. During this period, 9555 referrals were received in total, most were in adolescence ( n = 7901, 82.7%), and more assigned female (age range = 1–18 years; M = 14.05; SD = 2.5) were referred than assigned male young people overall ( n = 6823, 71.4%). A larger proportion of assigned female adolescents (assigned female: n = 5835, 62.3%, assigned male: n = 1897, 20.3%) and assigned female children ( n = 988, 10.6%, assigned male: n = 640, 6.8%) were referred. For 2%, sex assigned at birth was unrecorded, 83.4% were White British and 36.6% had an unidentified ethnicity. Only 4% did not attend a first appointment, indicating the need for care from this specialist service. With more young people presenting to gender services, understanding the demographics of young people seeking gender care is vital for service provision. Future research should explore how to increase access to gender care for ethnic minorities, and how to support those accessing services.
Internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy for adolescents with insomnia: Feasibility and preliminary efficacy
Authors: Åslund Li , Jernelöv Susanna , Serlachius Eva , Vigerland Sarah , Wicksell Rikard K , Henje Eva , Lekander Mats
Published: September 2023

Background

Insomnia is common in adolescents. This study evaluated feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a six-week internet-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (ICBT-I) in adolescents.

Methods

In this uncontrolled pilot study, participants ( n = 27, 78% female) completed assessments pre- and post intervention. Data on recruitment, adherence to treatment, treatment activity, satisfaction and credibility was collected to assess feasibility. Self-reported insomnia symptoms, sleep parameters as well as depression, anxiety and daytime function were also assessed.

Results

Participants showed good adherence to treatment and found the intervention overall credible and satisfactory. From pre- to post-assessment, statistically significant improvements were found for insomnia symptoms ( p < .001; d = 1.02), sleep onset latency ( p < .001; d = .39), wake after sleep onset ( p = .001; d = .34), sleep efficiency ( p < .001; d = .5) and depression ( p = .01, d = .37). Changes in scores of total sleep time, generalized anxiety, daytime sleepiness and functional disability were not significant.

Conclusions

The present study indicates that ICBT-I is well accepted by adolescents, that insomnia symptoms and sleep parameters can improve following the intervention, and that co-morbid symptoms of depression can be reduced. Due to the limited sample size and the uncontrolled design, the suggested results need to be replicated in well-powered controlled clinical trials.
Connection Points: The Dynamics of Recruitment to Packaging-Free Shopping
Authors: Müller Anne
Published: September 2023

Practice theorists have indicated the importance of understanding everyday life – how it changes and stays the same – in responding to current environmental problems, including the proliferation of food packaging waste. Focusing on individuals as carriers of practices who carry them out is essential for the diffusion of sustainable practices because the more carriers are recruited by less wasteful food consumption, such as packaging-free shopping, the more they are likely to spread. Thus far, however, insights regarding the dynamics of how practices recruit their carriers have been limited. Based on a focused ethnography in a recently opened packaging-free shop and its customers’ homes in Germany, this study specifies the dynamics of recruitment by introducing the concept of connection points. The presence of connection points enables a practice to recruit carriers, allowing them to maintain daily routines to a certain degree, while in the process of adopting a new practice that entails changing their everyday life. This reveals a paradoxical dynamic: continuity, in very diverse ways, seems to pave the way towards change.
Outcomes of Academic Tracking Among Young Adults in the United States: A Longitudinal Survey Analysis
Authors: Oh Hyunsu , Vang Houa
Published: September 2023

Using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997, we assess the relationship between track placement in high school and long-term postsecondary and occupational outcomes among young adults in the United States. We find that young adults in the college-prep track are most likely to earn a college degree. Young adults in the vocational are more likely than those in the college-prep track to have a vocational premium for short-term earning levels. Otherwise, those in the vocational premium in earnings are eventually eclipsed by the academic premium. We also find that some personal characteristics, such as race, gender, and social class, intersect with the relationship between track placement and our outcome variables. Our findings have theoretical and practical implications for academic tracking and long-term educational and labor market outcomes.
Stories from third space — A case and considerations of design research education from a Swedish vantage point
Authors: Hellström Reimer Maria , Mazé Ramia
Published: September 2023

Debates continue about the positioning of design within research-driven universities. While the idea of autonomy has had a strong appeal, it is the bridging across established academic cultures that has proved especially effective for legitimizing design research and research education. Revisiting a conception of design as a ‘Third Space’ and drawing on a case – the Swedish Faculty for Design Research and Research Education (2008–2015) – we discuss what ‘thirdness’ can entail in context. Our account of this case reveals the unsettled dynamics of navigating in, between and across academic cultures. Design research education, we argue, has prospects to cultivate a critical space within academia, in which its ‘thirdness’ entails sensitization and agitation of the territorial conditions of knowledge. There is a need for a reconsideration of design – and academia more generally – not as a static disciplinary order but as a contested archipelago that opens for alternative orientations.
A future without homophobia? Gay men and personal responsibility in the Chilean telenovela Casa de Muñecos
Authors: Ramírez Ricardo
Published: September 2023

The inclusion of four gay characters in the telenovela Casa de Muñecos (2018-9) was an event that, until then, had not taken place in any other Chilean telenovela. Through a qualitative textual analysis of these figures, this article argues that the programme has strengthened a neoliberal discourse of personal responsibility that makes gay men not only accountable for their own well-being but also for the well-being of others, as they are singled out as responsible for making the ‘right’ decisions that will contribute to the process of articulating a non-homophobic future in the country.
Discontinuation of infliximab treatment in patients with inflammatory bowel disease who retransitioned to originator and those who remained on biosimilar
Authors: Meijboom Rosanne W. , Gardarsdottir Helga , Becker Matthijs L. , Movig Kris L. L. , Kuijvenhoven Johan , Egberts Toine C. G. , Giezen Thijs J.
Published: September 2023

Background:

Many patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have transitioned from an infliximab originator to a biosimilar. However, some patients retransition to the originator (i.e. stop biosimilar and reinitiate the originator). Whether this sign of potential unsatisfactory treatment response is specifically related to the infliximab biosimilar or the patient and/or the disease including patients’ beliefs on the biosimilar is unclear.

Objectives:

We aimed to compare the risk of and reasons for infliximab discontinuation between retransitioned patients and those remaining on biosimilar.

Design:

Non-interventional, multicentre cohort study.

Methods:

IBD patients who transitioned from infliximab originator to biosimilar between January 2015 and September 2019 in two Dutch hospitals were eligible for this study. Retransitioned patients (retransitioning cohort) were matched with patients remaining on biosimilar (biosimilar remainder cohort). Reasons for discontinuation were categorised as the unwanted response (i.e. loss of effect or adverse events) or remission. Risk of unwanted discontinuation was compared using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results:

Patients in the retransitioning cohort ( n = 44) were younger (median age 39.9 versus 44.0 years), more often female (65.9% versus 48.9%) and had shorter dosing intervals (median 48.5 versus 56.0 days) than in the biosimilar remainder cohort ( n = 127). Infliximab discontinuation due to unwanted response was 22.7% in the retransitioning and 13.4% in the biosimilar remainder cohort, and due to remission was 2.3% and 9.4%, respectively. Retransitioned patients are at increased risk of discontinuing due to unwanted response compared with biosimilar remainder patients (adjusted HR 3.7, 95% CI: 1.0–13.9). Patients who retransitioned due to an increase in objective disease markers had higher discontinuation rates than patients who retransitioned due to symptoms only (66.7% versus 23.7%).

Conclusion:

Retransitioned patients are at increased risk of infliximab discontinuation due to unwanted response. Retransitioning appeared related to the patient and/or disease and not the product. Clinicians might switch patients opting for retransitioning to other treatment regimens.
Osteochondral Repair with Autologous Cartilage Transplantation with or without Bone Grafting: A Short Pilot Study in Mini-Pigs
Authors: Shim Dong Woo , Lee Kyoung-Mi , Lee Donghyun , Kim Jun Sik , Jung Yeon Seop , Oh Sung Suk , Lee Si Wook , Lee Jin Woo , Kim Bom Soo
Published: September 2023

Objective

Treatment strategies for osteochondral defects, for which particulated autologous cartilage transplantation (PACT) is an emerging treatment strategy, aim to restore the structure and function of the hyaline cartilage. Herein, we compared the efficacy of PACT with control or human transforming growth factor-β (rhTGF-β), and clarified the necessity of bone graft (BG) with PACT to treat shallow osteochondral defects in a porcine model.

Design

Two skeletally mature male micropigs received 4 osteochondral defects in each knee. The 16 defects were randomized to (1) empty control, (2) PACT, (3) PACT with BG, or (4) rhTGF-β. Animals were euthanized after 2 months and histomorphometry, immunofluorescence analysis, semiquantitative evaluation (O’Driscoll score), and magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) score were performed.

Results

Hyaline cartilages, glycosaminoglycan synthesis, and collagen type II staining were more abundant in the PACT than in the control and rhTGF-β groups. The O’Driscoll score was significantly different between groups ( P < 0.001), with both PACT groups showing superiority ( P = 0.002). PACT had the highest score ( P = 0.002), with improved restoration of subchondral bone compared with PACT with BG. The MOCART score showed significant differences between groups ( P = 0.021); MOCART and O’Driscoll scores showed high correlation (r = 0.847, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Treatment of osteochondral defects with PACT improved tissue quality compared with that with control or rhTGF-β in a porcine model. BG, in addition to PACT, may be unnecessary for shallow osteochondral defects. Clinical Relevance. BG may not be necessary while performing PACT.
The Fear of Personal Death and the Willingness to Commit to Organ Donation
Authors: Kogut Tehila , Pittarello Andrea , Slovic Paul
Published: September 2023

In three studies, with samples from different countries (the United States and Israel) and religions (Christians and Jews), we found that individual levels of fear of death significantly predicted lower willingness to register as organ donors (Studies 1 and 2). Moreover, after being asked about their organ donation status (i.e., whether they are registered as donors), fear of death significantly increased among unregistered people. This did not occur among registered people, who had already faced the decision to become donors in the past (Study 2). Finally, providing non-registered (non-religious) people with a defense strategy to manage their fear of death increased their willingness to sign an organ donation commitment, partially by increasing their feelings of hopefulness. The implications of these findings for increasing organ donation registration are discussed.
Topical capsaicin 8% patch in peripheral neuropathic pain: Efficacy and quality of life
Authors: Santos Márcia Pitrez , Lemos Francisco , Gomes Joana , Romão José Manuel , Veiga Dalila
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP) is one of the most challenging diseases to treat with a significant negative impact on the patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Capsaicin 8% patch has arisen in the last decades as an alternative to oral drugs in the treatment of PNP with fewer side effects and promising results in efficacy.

Objectives

This work aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the topical application of capsaicin in PNP and its impact on patients’ HRQoL based on the use of capsaicin in a tertiary hospital of Oporto.

Methods

This study included 100 patients with localized PNP with poor pain control and without improvement with previous treatments that were treated at least once with an 8% capsaicin patch. Effectiveness on pain relief, number of treatments needed, safety and impact on HRQoL were assessed through a set of questionnaires.

Results

Regarding the aetiology of PNP, 67.6% ( N = 46) have post-surgery or trauma induced PNP with 64.7% ( N = 44) of patients reporting pain in the lower limb. After the treatment, 30.9% ( N = 21) felt minimally improved, 22.1 ( N = 15) felt much improved and 13.2 ( N = 9) felt very much improved. On a scale from 1 to 10, in the week prior to the survey, the median intensity of pain was 6 and the median interference in quality of life was 7. The majority of patients still report limitations in mobility and daily activities and moderate pain.

Conclusion

Capsaicin 8% patch is effective in PNP treatment at least in the short term. Repeated applications may be important for long-term analgesia. The low systemic dose and few side effects mean that the treatment is generally well tolerated by patients. Due to the analgesic effect, capsaicin can improve the HRQoL of patients with PNP.
Crossing complex infrapopliteal lesions utilizing a front-end cutting technique: A report of two cases with a novel rotational atherectomy device
Authors: Rao Siddhartha , Hnatov Anton , Tarra Trisha , Amparo Amber , Bhargava Mallika
Published: September 2023

Critical limb ischemia represents the most severe stage of peripheral vascular disease and patients often present with complex, calcified infrapopliteal lesions. Atherectomy is an endovascular treatment modality that can be used to debulk otherwise uncrossable lesions. We performed a retrospective, single-center, case report of two patients who presented with critical limb ischemia and whose complex and calcified infrapopliteal lesions were treated with the 1.5 mm Phoenix Atherectomy System after prior failed angioplasty attempts. The 1.5 mm Phoenix Atherectomy System successfully debulked each infrapopliteal lesion, and each patient achieved thrombolysis in myocardial infarction grade 3 flow of the target lesion. There were no device-related procedural complications or deaths. These cases demonstrate that the Phoenix Atherectomy System can be used to debulk complex, calcified infrapopliteal lesions to optimize endovascular treatment and improve outcomes for patients with critical limb ischemia. Further studies are warranted to validate the long-term safety and efficacy rates of the Phoenix Atherectomy System in a larger critical limb ischemia population.
A Possible Role of VPS13B in the Formation of Golgi-Lipid Droplet Contacts Associating with the ER
Authors: Du Yuanjiao , Hu Xuewen , Chang Weiping , Deng Lin , Ji Wei-Ke , Xiong Juan
Published: September 2023

While the physical interactions between the Golgi apparatus (Golgi) and lipid droplets (LDs) have been suggested through system-level imaging, the Golgi-LD membrane contact sites (MCSs) remain largely uncharacterized. Here, we show evidence to support the existence of Golgi-LD MCSs in HEK293 cells. We further suggest that vacuolar protein sorting-associated protein 13B (VPS13B) localizes to and promotes the formation of Golgi-LD contacts upon oleic acid (OA) stimulation using 3D high-resolution microscopy. Depletion of VPS13B moderately affects the formation of Golgi-LD contacts upon OA treatment in addition to the fragmentation of the Golgi. Although cellular functions of VPS13B-mediated contacts are still elusive, these findings may provide a new insight into related diseases caused by loss-of-function mutations of VPS13B.
Identification and analysis of RNA-5-methylcytosine-related key genes in osteoarthritis
Authors: Yu Yang , Lu Shitao , Liu Xiaoming , Li Yu , Xu Jianzhong
Published: September 2023

Background

5-methylcytosine (m5C) modification is widely associated with many biological and pathological processes. However, knowledge of m5C modification in osteoarthritis (OA) remains lacking. Thus, our study aimed to identify common m5C features in OA.

Results

In the present study, we identified 1395 differentially methylated genes (DMGs) and 1673 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation next-generation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) and RNA-sequencing. A co-expression analysis of DMGs and DEGs showed that the expression of 133 genes was significantly affected by m5C methylation. A protein–protein interaction network of the 133 genes was constructed using the STRING database, and the cytoHubba plug-in of Cytoscape was used to hub genes were screen out 11 hub genes, including MMP14, VTN, COL15A1, COL6A2, SPARC, COL5A1, COL6A3, COL6A1, COL8A2, ADAMTS2 and COL7A1. The Pathway enrichment analysis by the ClueGO and CluePedia plugins in Cytoscape showed that the hub genes were significantly enriched in collagen degradation and extracellular matrix degradation.

Conclusions

Our study indicated that m5C modification might play an important role in OA pathogenesis, and the present study provides worthwhile insight into identifying m5C-related therapeutic targets in OA.
International survey among hepatologists and pulmonologists on the hepatic hydrothorax: plea for recommendations
Authors: Cadranel Jean-François David , Ollivier-Hourmand Isabelle , Cadranel Jacques , Thevenot Thierry , Zougmore Honoré , Nguyen-Khac Eric , Bureau Christophe , Allaire Manon , Nousbaum Jean-Baptiste , Loustaud-Ratti Véronique , Causse Xavier , Sogni Philippe , Hanslik Bertrand , Bourliere Marc , Peron Jean-Marie , Ganne-Carrie Nathalie , Dao Thong , Thabut Dominique , Maitre Bernard. , Debzi Nabil , Smadhi Ryad , Sombie Roger , Kpossou Raimi , Nouel Olivier , Bissonnette Julien , Ruiz Isaac , Medmoun Mourad , Dastis Sergio Negrin , Deltenre Pierre , Artru Florent , Raherison Chantal , Elkrief Laure , Lemagoarou Tristan
Published: September 2023

Background

The Hepatic hydrothorax is a pleural effusion related to portal hypertension; its diagnosis and therapeutic management may be difficult. The aims of this article are which follows: To gather the practices of hepatogastroenterologists or pulmonologists practitioners regarding the diagnosis and management of the hepatic hydrothorax.

Methods

Practitioners from 13 French- speaking countries were invited to answer an online questionnaire on the hepatic hydrothorax diagnosis and its management.

Results

Five hundred twenty-eight practitioners (80% from France) responded to this survey. 75% were hepatogastroenterologists, 20% pulmonologists and the remaining 5% belonged to other specialities. The Hepatic hydrothorax can be located on the left lung for 64% of the responders (66% hepatogastroenterologists vs 57% pulmonologists; p = 0.25); The Hepatic hydrothorax can exist in the absence of clinical ascites for 91% of the responders (93% hepatogastroenterologists vs 88% pulmonologists; p = 0.27). An Ultrasound pleural scanning was systematically performed before a puncture for 43% of the responders (36% hepatogastroenterologists vs 70% pulmonologists; p < 0.001). A chest X-ray was performed before a puncture for 73% of the respondeurs (79% hepatogastroenterologists vs 54% pulmonologists; p < 0.001). In case of a spontaneous bacterial empyema, an albumin infusion was used by 73% hepatogastroenterologists and 20% pulmonologists (p < 0.001). A drain was used by 37% of the responders (37% hepatogastroenterologists vs 31% pulmonologists; p = 0.26).An Indwelling pleural catheter was used by 50% pulmonologists and 22% hepatogastroenterologists (p < 0.01). TIPS was recommended by 78% of the responders (85% hepatogastroenterologists vs 52% pulmonologists; p < 0.001) and a liver transplantation, by 76% of the responders (86% hepatogastroenterologists vs 44% pulmonologists; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The results of this large study provide important data on practices of French speaking hepatogastroenterologists and pulmonologists; it appears that recommendations are warranted.
Assessing physical activity promotion in different settings and how its associated with public participation during COVID-19 epidemic: evidence from national policy evaluation
Authors: Wongsingha Narakorn , Widyastari Dyah Anantalia , Chokthananukoon Burathep , Rasri Niramon , Katewongsa Piyawat
Published: September 2023

Background

Various interventions, programs and policies have been implemented to improve physical activity (PA) levels worldwide. However, countries continue to face barriers and challenges in achieving their targets. To date, there is a lack of study on the evaluation of physical activity (PA) promotion and how it’s associated with public participation.

Methods

This study assessed PA promotion in eight different settings in terms of policy availability, policy implementation, and public participation in PA programs. Policy availability was assessed by reviewing 384 policy and strategy documents, rules, regulations, legislation, and guidelines on PA. We scored the documents by using the Comprehensive Analysis of Policy on Physical Activity (CAPPA) framework. Data to assess policy implementation and public participation were taken from the Thailand Report Card Survey 2021 (TRC2021), and the Thailand Surveillance on Physical Activity (SPA) 2021. Both surveys comprised over 5,000 nationally-representative samples from on-screen, face-to-face interviews, and an online self-administered survey. We scored the policy implementation and public participation based on respondents’ response towards policy implementation and participation indicators. A grading scheme was applied to indicate how successful an investment has been made.

Results

Public education and mass media received the highest average score in policy availability, implementation and public participation in PA program (67.9%, grade B), followed by active urban design (66.1%, grade B-) and active transport (63.7%, grade B-). Workplace, whole-of-school, and community-wide initiatives were the investments with the lowest scores, implying low availability, limited implementation, and less accessibility to public. Females were less likely to participate in active transport, active urban design, sports/recreation for all, workplace activity, and community-wide initiatives. Age and educational attainment were consistent predictors of utilization in all investments.

Conclusions

With varying degrees of policy availability and accessibility, public participation in PA investments is likely to be constrained by biological and socioeconomic inequality. Future investments should aim at providing generalized or tailored interventions to ensure equal access and participation for all segments of the population.
Investigating the intentions and reasons of senior high school students in registering for nursing education in China
Authors: Zhang Zhong , Yang Chaoqun , Wang Ying , Deng Guoying , Chang Jian
Published: September 2023

Background

A shortage of qualified nurses and their low level of educational qualifications hinders the development of global health services. Studies have proven the role of nursing education in addressing these problems. However, no related studies have focused on senior high school students in China. This study aimed to explore senior high school students’ intentions to learn nursing and identify the factors influencing their decision-making processes.

Methods

An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to 8050 senior high school students, which included questions regarding their demographic characteristics, obtaining nursing specialty information, cognition of the nursing occupation and the impact of the COVID-19 on the nursing profession. Descriptive calculation, the chi-square test and logistic regression were used for the analysis.

Results

Only 0.73% of the participants had a clear intention to study nursing. Academic performance and family support were significant predictors of students’ intentions to pursue nursing education. Students’ interest in nursing specialties was associated with their choice. There was a positive correlation between cognition of nursing occupation and students’ choice of nursing. Students’ experience of the COVID-19 pandemic also had a positive impact on their nursing career choice.

Conclusion

This survey to some extent reflects the problem of nurses shortage in China. In addition, these findings may also provide a new perspective for predictors of nursing shortage and potential interventions.
Modulating the transcriptomic profile of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae biofilm formation by antibiotics in combination with zinc sulfate
Authors: Shebl Rania I. , Elkhatib Walid F. , Badawy Mona Shaban E. M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a significant healthcare-associated pathogen. We investigated the antimicrobial interaction pattern between zinc sulfate and antibiotics against K. pneumoniae biofilm on the phenotypic and genotypic levels.

Methods

Determining the minimum biofilm inhibitory concentrations and the transcriptomic profile of K. pneumoniae biofilm formation genes post-treatment were carried out to evaluate the effect on the phenotypic and genotypic levels, respectively.

Results

Zinc enhanced the antibiofilm potentials of cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, and ertapenem, whereas it antagonizes the effectiveness of fluoroquinolones and meropenem on the phenotypic level. On the molecular level, zinc enhanced the anti-biofilm efficacies of cephalosporins (cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, ceftazidime, cefpirome, and cefepime) via down-regulating the expression of biofilm-related genes by 18-, 38-, 5-, 77- and 2-folds, respectively. Zinc in combination with aminoglycosides (kanamycin, gentamicin, and amikacin) reduced the expression of biofilm-related genes by 40-, 2602- and 20-folds, respectively, and by 2-folds in combination with ertapenem. However, a reduction in the down-regulatory potentials of fluoroquinolones was recorded following combination with zinc by 2-, 2-, 15- and 14-folds, respectively, and an up-regulation in the expression levels of the tested genes by 2-folds in the case of zinc/meropenem combination.

Conclusions

Results revealed variable interaction patterns between different antibiotics in combination with zinc. Current findings also shed light on the antibiofilm potentials of zinc/antibiotics combinations especially when combining zinc with fluoroquinolones or meropenem to avoid their antagonistic effects.