bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast Track Surgery as the Latest Multimodal Strategy of Enhanced Recovery after Urethroplasty
Authors: Beloborodov Vladimir , Vorobev Vladimir , Hovalyg Temirlan , Seminskiy Igor , Sokolova Svetlana , Lapteva Ekaterina , Mankov Aleksandr
Published: May 2023

Fast track surgery (FTS), as well as ERAS (enhanced recovery after surgery/rapid recovery programs), is the latest multimodal treatment strategy, designed to reduce the disability period and improve the medical care quality. The study aims to analyze the enhanced recovery protocol effectiveness in a comparative study of elective urethral stricture surgery. A prospective study included 54 patients with an established diagnosis of urethral stricture in 2019-2020 in the urological hospital of the Irkutsk City Clinical Hospital No. 1. All 54 patients have completed the study. There were two groups of patients FTS-group (group II, n = 25) and standard group (group I, n = 29). In terms of preoperative parameters, the comparison groups have statistical homogeneity. The comparative intergroup efficacy analysis of the treatment based on the criteria established in the study demonstrated good treatment results for 5 (17.2%) patients of group I and 20 (80%) patients of group II (

p
=
0.004

). The overall efficacy of urethroplasty surgeries, regardless of the treatment protocol, was comparable (86.2% vs 92%;

p
=
0.870

), as well as the likelihood of relapse within two years (

p
=
0.512

). The predictors of recurrence were technical complications and urethral suture failure (OR 4.36; 95% CI 1.6; 7.11;

p
=
0.002

). The FTS protocol reduced the treatment period (

p
<
0.001

) and decreased the severity of postoperative pain (

p
<
0.001

). The use of the “fast track surgery” protocol in urethroplasty with generally similar treatment results makes it possible to achieve a better functional and objective condition of patients in the postoperative period due to less pain, shorter catheterization, and hospitalization.
Perceived Change in Quality of Life Related to Treatment of Hepatitis C Infection among People with Substance Use Disorder: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Carlsen Siv-Elin L. , Fadnes Lars Thore , Napsholm Birthe Unneland , Lorås Lennart
Published: May 2023

Background. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is often associated with people who inject drugs, and with a reduction in quality of life. While earlier forms of HCV treatment had low treatment uptake, newer HCV treatment integrated with opioid maintenance treatment appears to increase treatment uptake among those who inject drugs. The aim was to explore how people who inject drugs perceive changes in quality of life after treatment of HCV infection. Methods. Four focus group discussions, and 19 individual interviews were conducted with people who inject drugs or who had previously injected drugs and received opioid agonist therapy. All participants were successfully treated for and “cured” for HCV. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results. The HCV treatment helped participants to let go of negative thoughts and break destructive patterns of interaction. This facilitated the restoration of social relationships with family and others. Furthermore, some participants reported a general improvement in their health. Feeling healthy meant fewer worries such as infecting others. Also, interactions with health professionals were experienced as less stigmatizing. These physical, social, and psychological improvements led to a form of “awakening” and being treated for HCV gave participants hope for the future. Conclusion. HCV treatment improves the mental and physical health in addition to play an important social function. Successful HCV treatment was associated with a greater sense of hope for the future, reconnection with significant others, and reduced feeling of stigma. Overall, improved health and social relationships contributed to improved quality of life.
Trauma-Informed Approaches in Primary Healthcare and Community Mental Healthcare: A Mixed Methods Systematic Review of Organisational Change Interventions
Authors: Lewis Natalia V. , Bierce Angel , Feder Gene S. , Macleod John , Turner Katrina M. , Zammit Stan , Dawson Shoba
Published: May 2023

A trauma-informed approach is a framework for organisational (synonym system) change interventions that address the universal prevalence and impact of trauma. This mixed methods systematic review assessed the effects of trauma-informed approaches on psychological, behavioural, and health outcomes in health-care providers and adult patients in primary care and community mental healthcare. We searched five databases and grey literature and consulted experts for reports published in January 1990 to June 2021. The quantitative descriptive and qualitative framework syntheses were integrated through a line of argument and mapped onto a logic model. We included six nonrandomised studies that evaluated eight interventions with varied theoretical developments, components, and outcomes. The most common components were budget allocation, workforce development, identification/response to violence and trauma, and evaluation. Evidence for intervention effects was limited and conflicting. Four studies reported improvement in provider readiness and sense of community, while three reported conflicting effects on provider behaviour regarding delivery of trauma-informed care. Four studies reported some improvement in patient readiness for disease management and access to services; however, the evidence for patient satisfaction was conflicting. Two studies found that patients and providers felt safe. While one study reported improvement in patient quality of life and chronic pain, another found no effect on substance use, and three studies reported conflicting effects on mental health. Intervention mechanisms included a package of varied components, tailoring to the organisational needs, capacities and preferences, staff education and self-care, creating safe environments, and shared decision-making. Intervention effects were moderated by contextual (health system values, policies, governance, business models, trauma-informed movement, organisational culture, and social determinants of health) and intervention factors (buy-in from all staff, collective learning through conversations, equal attention to staff and patient well-being, and sustainable funding). No studies measured adverse events/harm, cost effectiveness, or providers’ health. We need more methodologically robust evaluations of trauma-informed organisational change interventions.
In Silico Identification and Analysis of Potentially Bioactive Antiviral Phytochemicals against SARS‐CoV‐2: A Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulation Approach
Authors: Halder Sajal Kumar , Sultana Ive , Shuvo Md Nazmussakib , Shil Aparna , Himel Mahbubul Kabir , Hasan Md. Ashraful , Shawan Mohammad Mahfuz Ali Khan
Published: May 2023

SARS‐CoV‐2, a deadly coronavirus sparked COVID‐19 pandemic around the globe. With an increased mutation rate, this infectious agent is highly transmissible inducing an escalated rate of infections and death everywhere. Hence, the discovery of a viable antiviral therapy option is urgent. Computational approaches have offered a revolutionary framework to identify novel antimicrobial treatment regimens and allow a quicker, cost‐effective, and productive conversion into the health center by evaluating preliminary and safety investigations. The primary purpose of this research was to find plausible plant‐derived antiviral small molecules to halt the viral entrance into individuals by clogging the adherence of Spike protein with human ACE2 receptor and to suppress their genome replication by obstructing the activity of Nsp3 (Nonstructural protein 3) and 3CLpro (main protease). An in‐house library of 1163 phytochemicals were selected from the NPASS and PubChem databases for downstream analysis. Preliminary analysis with SwissADME and pkCSM revealed 149 finest small molecules from the large dataset. Virtual screening using the molecular docking scoring and the MM‐GBSA data analysis revealed that three candidate ligands CHEMBL503 (Lovastatin), CHEMBL490355 (Sulfuretin), and CHEMBL4216332 (Grayanoside A) successfully formed docked complex within the active site of human ACE2 receptor, Nsp3, and 3CLpro, respectively. Dual method molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and post‐MD MM‐GBSA further confirmed efficient binding and stable interaction between the ligands and target proteins. Furthermore, biological activity spectra and molecular target analysis revealed that all three preselected phytochemicals were biologically active and safe for human use. Throughout the adopted methodology, all three therapeutic candidates significantly outperformed the control drugs (Molnupiravir and Paxlovid). Finally, our research implies that these SARS‐CoV‐2 protein antagonists might be viable therapeutic options. At the same time, enough wet lab evaluations would be needed to ensure the therapeutic potency of the recommended drug candidates for SARS‐CoV‐2.
Vector Field-Based Guidance for Planar Smooth Path Following of a Small Unmanned Helicopter
Authors: Chen Yang , Zeng Wei , Wu Yongliang
Published: May 2023

This study investigates a guidance method that will allow the small unmanned helicopter to follow the predefined horizontal smooth path. A stable nonlinear guidance law, which needs the information of the inertial position and groundspeed of the helicopter and the implicit function of the desired path, is designed to generate the reference course rate command based on the concept of the vector field. The asymptotic approximation to the desired path with bounded following errors has also been demonstrated by using the Lyapunov stability arguments. Some conditions for guaranteeing the stability have been extended. Simulations on following four types of planar paths, i.e., the square, circular, elliptic, and cubic curve paths, have verified the effectiveness of the proposed method. The predefined square path following performance of the proposed vector field-based method is compared with another two guidance laws, which are based on the PD-like and fuzzy logic control. The comparison shows that the proposed method can guide the helicopter to follow the predefined path most smoothly. The maximum overshoot by using the proposed method is less than 0.016 meters, while those by using the other two methods are all larger than 0.80 meters. Moreover, the vector field-based method will cost the least time for the vehicle to converge to the predefined path.
Clinical Significance of Decreased TIPE2 Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Patients with Psoriasis Vulgaris
Authors: Hu Hua , Fu Xiuyu , Fu Dandan , Li Jialin , Zhang Xinyu , Cheng Sai , Song Xiangfeng , Tian Zhongwei
Published: May 2023

Psoriasis is an immune system disorder induced by the interaction of the polygenic background and environmental factors. Tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)‐induced protein 8‐like 2 (TNFAIP8L2, TIPE2), a regulator of immunity, is differentially expressed in tumors, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases. However, to our knowledge, no study has evaluated TIPE2 expression in patients with psoriasis vulgaris. The present case‐control study aimed to determine the expression levels of TIPE2 mRNA in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with psoriasis vulgaris and analyze the correlation between TIPE2 and other inflammatory cytokine variations in the pathogenesis of psoriasis vulgaris. Thirty‐three patients with psoriasis vulgaris and thirty‐one healthy volunteers were enrolled from October 2021 to March 2022. The mRNA expression levels of TIPE2, RELA (NF‐κb p65), TNF‐α, IL‐10, IL‐6, and IL‐1β in PBMCs were determined using qPCR. The severity of psoriasis vulgaris was determined according to the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores. TIPE2 mRNA expression significantly decreased, while the expression of RELA, TNF‐α, IL‐10, IL‐6, and IL‐1β increased in patients with psoriasis vulgaris compared with that in the healthy control group. In addition, the expression levels of TIPE2, RELA, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β positively correlated with the PASI score. TIPE2 mRNA expression negatively correlated with IL‐6 and positively correlated with TNF‐α. Moreover, TIPE2 mRNA expression was higher in the active stage than that in the stationary stage. Notably, TNF‐α expression levels were higher in patients with psoriasis vulgaris combined with a history of respiratory infection. TIPE2 may contribute to the pathogenesis of psoriasis and be a potential biomarker of psoriasis vulgaris.
Fibrotic Plaque and Microvascular Dysfunction Predict Early Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy Progression After Heart Transplantation: The Early Post Transplant Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy Study
Authors: Chih Sharon , Chong Aun Yeong , Džavík Vladimír , So Derek Y. , Aleksova Natasha , Wells George A. , Bernick Jordan , Overgaard Christopher B. , Stadnick Ellamae , Mielniczuk Lisa M. , Beanlands Rob S.B. , Ross Heather J.
Published: May 2023

Background:

Early cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) prognostication is needed to improve long-term outcomes after heart transplantation. We characterized first year posttransplant coronary anatomic-physiologic alterations to determine predictors of early CAV progression.

Methods:

Heart transplant recipients at 2 institutions (enrolled January 2018 to March 2021) underwent prospective evaluation 3 and 12-month posttransplant with angiography and left anterior descending artery intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, fractional flow reserve, coronary flow reserve, and index of microcirculatory resistance measurements. CAV progression was assessed by intravascular ultrasound change in percentage intimal volume from baseline to 12-month follow-up.

Results:

Eighty-two patients (mean age, 51 years; 60% men) completed evaluation at mean 13.8 and 56.3 weeks posttransplant. Donor atherosclerosis (baseline intravascular ultrasound maximal intimal thickness, ≥0.5 mm) was evident in 50%. De novo (follow-up maximal intimal thickness, ≥0.5 mm) and rapidly progressive CAV (maximal intimal thickness, ≥0.5-mm increase from baseline) developed in 24% and 13%, respectively. On optical coherence tomography, baseline to follow-up median intimal volume increased 42% (0.58 mm
3
/mm), percentage intimal volume increased 44% (4.6%), vessel volume decreased 4% (−0.50 mm
3
/mm) and lumen volume decreased 9% (−1.02 mm
3
/mm);
P
<0.05 for all. Fibrotic plaque was the predominant morphology: baseline, 29% and follow-up, 50%. Coronary physiology was abnormal in 41% at baseline and 45% at follow-up, with 1 in 5 patients having microvascular dysfunction (index of microcirculatory resistance, ≥25). On multivariable linear regression analysis, recipient male sex, fibrotic plaque, and index of microcirculatory resistance were independent predictors of coronary disease progression.

Conclusions:

Fibrotic plaque on optical coherence tomography and index of microcirculatory resistance early posttransplant predict CAV progression in the first year of transplantation.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03217786.
Shared Heritability of Blood Pressure and Pulse Wave Velocity: Insights From the STANISLAS Cohort
Authors: Xhaard Constance , de Villemereuil Pierre , Benetos Athanase , Bozec Erwan , Dandine-Roulland Claire , Le Floch Edith , Regnault Véronique , Lacolley Patrick , Zannad Faiez , Rossignol Patrick , Girerd Nicolas
Published: May 2023

Background:

Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a marker of arterial stiffness, which is intrinsically highly correlated with blood pressure (BP). However, the interplay of PWV and BP heritability has not been extensively studied. This study aimed to estimate the heritability of PWV and BP and determine the genetic correlation between PWV and BP.

Methods:

The heritability of PWV and BP was estimated in 1080 subjects from the STANISLAS (Suivi Temporaire Annuel Non-Invasif de la Santé des Lorrains Assurés Sociaux) cohort with at least one relative using a linear mixed model within one frequentist and one Bayesian framework implemented, respectively, in the Gaston and MCMCglmm R packages. Then their genetic correlations were also estimated.

Results:

The heritability estimations for PWV were within the same range of the heritability of systolic BP and diastolic BP (23%, 19%, and 27%, respectively). Daytime heritability of BP was higher than nighttime BP. In addition, phenotypic correlations between PWV and systolic BP/diastolic BP were, respectively, 0.34 and 0.23, whereas nonsignificant genetic correlations were 0.08 and 0.22 respectively, indicating that PWV and diastolic BP shared more polygenic codeterminants than PWV and systolic BP.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that the heritability of PWV is >20% and within the same range as BP heritability. It also suggests that the link between PWV and BP goes beyond phenotypic association: PWV and BP (in particular diastolic BP) share common genetic determinants. This genetic interdependence of PWV and BP appears largely polygenic.
Poliziano Correcting Poliziano
Authors: Verreth Louis
Published: May 2023

The present article offers the first comprehensive examination of the handwritten corrections attested in copies of Angelo Poliziano’s most important scholarly work, the Miscellaneorum centuria prima (1489). Based on a collation of 32 copies, this study identifies the corrections made by Poliziano’s assistants in Antonio Miscomini’s Florentine printing house. The first part of the article furnishes an overview of the handwritten corrections and indicates their relevance to our knowledge of the work’s textual genesis. The contribution then moves to an in-depth discussion of some specific corrections that reflect, amongst other things, Poliziano’s changing ideas on Latin prosody in some of his Greek-to-Latin translations, as well as on his interpretation of classical texts.
The Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty for Core Crimes
Authors: Bisset Alison
Published: May 2023

The Mutual Legal Assistance Initiative (mlai) was established to fill the widely acknowledged gap that currently exists within the international legal framework on inter-state cooperation in the prosecution of international crimes. Recent drafts of the mla Convention are concerned not only with mutual legal assistance and extradition, but a series of wider obligations for states on criminalisation in domestic law, exercise of jurisdiction and protection and reparations regimes for victims. It has become much more than a judicial cooperation treaty. This article analyses the developments and directional changes in the mlai, questioning whether the current draft Convention aligns with the Initiative’s original objectives and enables it to fulfil its aims.
Social Protest in Latin America: Democratic Crisis
Authors: Páez Bimos Pedro Martín
Published: May 2023

Social protest is not only a controversial issue, but should also be viewed within the social scenarios it has undergone, particularly when there are several manifestations that reveal severe conflicts in Latin America. This essay will explore the problems of the democratic and economic system that indicate the lack of equity in society, illustrating the need to modify the democratic model in a way that allows for the achievement of the fundamental rights of the people.
Sulzbacheromyces leucodontium (Basidiomycota, Lepidostromataceae), a new species of basidiolichen widely distributed in the Neotropics
Authors: COCA LUIS FERNANDO , GÓMEZ GÓMEZ SALOMÉ , GUZMÁN GUILLERMO JORGE , TRUJILLO TRUJILLO EDWIN , CLAVIJO LAURA , ZULUAGA ALEJANDRO , DAL FORNO MANUELA , LUMBSCH H. THORSTEN
Published: May 2023

As a result of botanical and lichenological expeditions in the Colombian Andean-Amazonian Piedmont, in the Brazilian Amazon, and in Veracruz, Mexico, a new species of Sulzbacheromyces was discovered and is here described based on morphological, anatomical, and molecular characters. S. leucodontium differs from other neotropical species in the genus by having white basidiomata and colonial algae in the thallus and represents the species with the widest distribution of the genus in the Americas, from Mexico to Brazil. In addition, the most complete phylogenetic reconstruction of the genus to date is presented as well as a key to the known species of Sulzbacheromyces in the Neotropics.
A new species of the genus Ceriodaphnia Dana, 1853 (Cladocera: Daphnidae) from Eastern Siberia (Russia) that combines morphological features of two species groups
Authors: GARIBIAN PETR G. , ANDREEVA LENA V. , KOTOV ALEXEY A.
Published: May 2023

Taxa of the genus Ceriodaphnia Dana, 1853 (Cladocera: Daphniidae) are ubiquitous in temperate and tropical lakes, and the taxonomy of the genus is confused. Moreover, present keys are often regional and insufficient for the taxonomic assignment of species at a global scale. This communication is aimed at improving our understanding of the C. dubia s.l. species group. We redescribe C. dubia s.l. from Northern Eurasia and describe a new species from Central Yakutia (Eastern Siberia, Russia). In contrast to typical members of the C. dubia group, C. nikolaii sp.nov. has the postabdomen of the parthenogenetic female with preanal margin slightly or strongly projecting and angulated. Moreover, adult males have a pronounced preanal angle and sensory seta of antenna I which is shorter than the longest easthetasc. Our finding challenges current definitions of species groups in Ceriodaphnia. Indeed, a postabdomen shape with a strongly projected preanal angle is characterstic of another group of this genus, namely the C. laticaudata-group. We found a taxon that combines the diagnostic morphological characters of two species groups. Further development of the genus taxonomy must be accompanied by redescriptions of all well-accepted and dubious taxa from their type localities and revisions of populations from other localities of the world.
Three new Chinese species of Palpifer Hampson from the collection of Franz Daniel (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae)
Authors: IGNATEV NIKOLAI , GREHAN JOHN R. , MIELKE CARLOS G.C. , SHIH LI-CHENG , MÜLLER GÜNTER C.
Published: May 2023

New Chinese Palpifer species are described from Yunnan and Fujian provinces. The male of Palpifer nielseni sp. n. is described from specimens housed at the Witt Museum Weiden and the Zoologisches Forschungsmuseum Alexander Koenig, while a male of P. chui sp. n. and a male and female of Palpifer climoi sp. n., are described from specimens in the latter collection only. Specimens were originally part of the Franz Daniel collection, collected in 1934–1935 from elevations of 2,300 and 3,000 m. The new species are diagnosed primarily by differences in the male genitalia. The female genitalia of P. climoi sp. n. represent the second published description for Palpifer. Four unique features of the forewing supporting monophyly of Palpifer are discussed.
Descriptions of three new species of Dicopomorpha Ogloblin (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Mymaridae) from India, with one new country record and a revised key to Indian species
Authors: ATHITHYA AYYAVU , MANICKAVASAGAM SAGADAI
Published: May 2023

Three new species of Dicopomorpha Ogloblin (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae), D. lathae Manickavasagam and Athithya sp. n., D. manickavasagami Athithya sp. n., and D. mohani Manickavasagam and Athithya sp. n., are described from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, Manipur and Assam states, respectively. Dicopomorpha koreana Triapitsyn and Berezovskiy is reported for the first time from India and a revised key to all 10 Indian species of the genus is provided.
Cost-Effectiveness of Cell Salvage in Trauma Blood Transfusions
Authors: Beeton George , Zagales Israel , Ngatuvai Micah , Atoa Andrew , Wajeeh Hassaan , Hoops Heather , Smith Chadwick P. , Elkbuli Adel
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Despite the increasing amount of evidence supporting its use, cell salvage (CS) remains an underutilized resource in operative trauma care in many hospitals. We aim to evaluate the utilization of CS in adult trauma patients and associated outcomes to provide evidence-based recommendations.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and CINAHL. Articles evaluating clinical outcomes and the cost-effectiveness of trauma patients utilizing CS were included. The primary study outcome was mortality rates. The secondary outcomes included complication rates (sepsis and infection) and ICU-LOS. The tertiary outcome was the cost-effectiveness of CS.

Results

This systematic review included 9 studies that accounted for a total of 1119 patients that received both CS and allogeneic transfusion (n = 519), vs allogeneic blood transfusions only (n = 601). In-hospital mortality rates ranged from 13% to 67% in patients where CS was used vs 6%-65% in those receiving allogeneic transfusions only; however, these findings were not significantly different ( P = .21-.56). Similarly, no significant differences were found between sepsis and infection rates or ICU-LOS in those patients where CS usage was compared to allogeneic transfusions alone. Of the 4 studies that provided comparisons on cost, 3 found the use of CS to be significantly more cost-effective.

Conclusions

Cell salvage can be used as an effective method of blood transfusion for trauma patients without compromising patient outcomes, in addition to its possible cost advantages. Future studies are needed to further investigate the long-term effects of cell salvage utilization in trauma patients.
Evaluating the use of PTSD Assessment Tools Within the U.S. Prison Setting: An Exploratory Analysis
Authors: Dulisse Brandon C. , Logan Matthew W. , Hazelwood Andrea R.
Published: May 2023

The identification and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in carceral settings remain a fundamental concern for practitioners, policy-makers, and incarcerated persons (IPs) alike. In recent years, PTSD assessment tools designed for the general population have been adopted for use in prisons upon intake, sometimes side-by-side with other assessment tools. This study attempts to provide insight into how these tools are used for a majority of IPs within the United States. Based on results from six U.S. states and the federal prison system, we find that PTSD assessment would benefit from newer tools designed for the specific challenges in the prison environment.
Sleep Time and Depression Symptoms as Predictors of Cognitive Development Among Adolescents: A Cross-Lagged Study From China
Authors: Cao Xiaojie
Published: May 2023

Sleep time and depression symptoms are important factors affecting cognitive development in adolescents. Based on the China Education Panel Survey (CEPS) database, this study used a two-wave cross-lagged model to examine the bidirectional relationship between sleep time, depression symptoms, and cognitive development. Descriptive statistics showed that Chinese adolescents’ cognitive development increased significantly from 7th to 8th grade in junior high school, but unfortunately, their depression level and average sleep time per night demonstrated a slightly deteriorating trend. Correlation analysis showed that there was a relatively stable negative correlation between cognitive development, sleep time, and depression symptoms. Moreover, the cross-lagged model revealed that there was a bidirectional relationship between cognitive development and sleep time, a bidirectional relationship between depression symptoms and sleep time, and a unidirectional relationship between depression symptoms and cognitive development. Male adolescents in the subgroup were consistent with the total sample. Among female adolescents, only cognitive development and sleep time have a bidirectional relationship, while depression symptoms and cognitive development, and depression symptoms and sleep time have a unidirectional relationship. Therefore, it is of significance to take targeted action to promote cognitive development and healthy growth in adolescents worldwide.
Multivariate Small Area Estimation of Social Indicators: The Case of Continuous and Binary Variables
Authors: Moretti Angelo
Published: May 2023

Large-scale sample surveys are not designed to produce reliable estimates for small areas. Here, small area estimation methods can be applied to estimate population parameters of target variables to detailed geographic scales. Small area estimation for noncontinuous variables is a topic of great interest in the social sciences where such variables can be found. Generalized linear mixed models are widely adopted in the literature. Interestingly, the small area estimation literature shows that multivariate small area estimators, where correlations among outcome variables are taken into account, produce more efficient estimates than do the traditional univariate techniques. In this article, the author evaluate a multivariate small area estimator on the basis of a joint mixed model in which a small area proportion and mean of a continuous variable are estimated simultaneously. Using this method, the author “borrows strength” across response variables. The author carried out a design-based simulation study to evaluate the approach where the indicators object of study are the income and a monetary poverty (binary) indicator. The author found that the multivariate approach produces more efficient small area estimates than does the univariate modeling approach. The method can be extended to a large variety of indicators on the basis of social surveys.
Unpacking the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA): Internationalisation of capital, imperial rivalry and cooperation, and regional power agency
Authors: Valadbaygi Kayhan
Published: May 2023

The existing accounts of the Iranian nuclear programme and the JCPOA suffer from ontological exteriority, in conjunction with the problematic conception of the state and unpersuasive assessments of future outcomes. Grounded on the philosophy of internal relations, which challenges the artificial detachment between political economy and military-security concerns, this article contends that grasping the Iranian nuclear programme and the JCPOA requires unpacking their internal links with neoliberal global capitalism. The article thus presents a three-part argument. First, it asserts that the Iranian nuclear programme and economic sanctions should be viewed as part of the great powers’ efforts, particularly those of the United States and the European Union, to shape neoliberalism in the Middle East and North Africa. Second, it delves into the post-2008 global economy’s imperial rivalry and cooperation, suggesting that the nuclear deal was a result of the US pivot to the East, China’s Belt and Road Initiative in West Asia, and the need for multinational companies to find new avenues for capital accumulation following the financial crisis. Finally, it connects the JCPOA to Iranian neoliberalisation, which gives rise to two competing capital fractions (the internationally oriented capital fraction and the military–bonyad complex) to emphasise the crucial role played by the former in reaching the nuclear deal.
Sub-anesthetic doses of ketamine increase single cell entrainment in the rat auditory cortex during auditory steady-state response
Authors: Munch Anders Sonne , Amat-Foraster Maria , Agerskov Claus , Bastlund Jesper Frank , Herrik Kjartan Frisch , Richter Ulrike
Published: May 2023

Background:

Understanding the effects of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA-R) antagonist ketamine on brain function is of considerable interest due to the discovery of its fast-acting antidepressant properties. It is well known that gamma oscillations are increased when ketamine is administered to rodents and humans, and increases in the auditory steady-state response (ASSR) have also been observed.

Aims:

To elucidate the cellular substrate of the increase in network activity and synchrony observed by sub-anesthetic doses of ketamine, the aim was to investigate spike timing and regularity and determine how this is affected by the animal’s motor state.

Methods:

Single unit activity and local field potentials from the auditory cortex of awake, freely moving rats were recorded with microelectrode arrays during an ASSR paradigm.

Results:

Ketamine administration yielded a significant increase in ASSR power and phase locking, both significantly modulated by motor activity. Before drug administration, putative fast-spiking interneurons (FSIs) were significantly more entrained to the stimulus than putative pyramidal neurons (PYRs). The degree of entrainment significantly increased at lower doses of ketamine (3 and 10 mg/kg for FSIs, 10 mg/kg for PYRs). At the highest dose (30 mg/kg), a strong increase in tonic firing of PYRs was observed.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest an involvement of FSIs in the increased network synchrony and provide a possible cellular explanation for the well-documented effects of ketamine-induced increase in power and synchronicity during ASSR. The results support the importance to evaluate different motor states separately for more translational preclinical research.
Characterizing opioid use in a Dutch cohort with migraine
Authors: van Welie Rein F , van Welie Floor C , de Vries Lentsch Simone , Dahan Albert , van Velzen Monique , Terwindt Gisela M
Published: May 2023

Background

There is lack of data on opioid (over)use for migraine in Europe.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional study in a large Dutch cohort using a web-based questionnaire to assess opioid use in individuals with migraine. Primary outcome was to assess opioid use for the treatment of migraine attacks. As secondary outcomes we specified use of opioids (duration of use, type of opioids, prescriber) and compared between persons with episodic migraine versus chronic migraine. Descriptive statistics, unpaired T-tests, Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests were used.

Results

In total n = 3712 patients participated, 13% ever used opioids for headache. In opioid users, 27% did this for >1 month, and 11% for >1 year, and 2% without prescription. The majority of prescribing physicians were general practitioners (46%), followed by neurologists (35%), other specialists (9%), or emergency room doctors (8%). Opioids were used as acute treatment in 63%, in 16% as preventive treatment, and in 21% for both indications. Chronic migraine patients reported more opioid use compared with episodic migraine (22% versus 12%, p < 0.001), with also more prolonged use (>1 month: 34% chronic migraine versus 24% episodic migraine, p < 0.003).

Conclusion

Opioid use is more frequent and prolonged in chronic migraine patients. Further education for both doctors and migraine subjects and providing multimodal pain management strategies are needed to reduce opioid use in persons with migraine.
Quantifier la confiance et le consentement durant la crise épidémique
Authors: Maudet Marion , Spire Alexis
Published: May 2023

Cet article propose de revenir sur les manières d’étudier quantitativement les rapports envers les institutions durant la crise épidémique de Covid-19, en distinguant la confiance symbolique à l’égard des pouvoirs publics et le consentement à se conformer à certaines recommandations. Les deux premières passations de l’enquête statistique Epicov, l’une en mai 2020 et l’autre en novembre 2020, permettent de confronter la confiance exprimée à l’égard des pouvoirs publics avec les attitudes adoptées face aux contraintes du confinement et face à l’obligation du port du masque. Après avoir exposé les conditions et les indicateurs d’une mesure statistique des rapports aux institutions dans le cadre d’une enquête pluridisciplinaire, l’article explicite les déterminants sociaux de la confiance institutionnelle et montre qu’il n’existe pas de corrélation mécanique entre le rapport de confiance dans les institutions étatiques et la propension à se conformer aux règles qu’elles édictent. Alors que le respect des règles lors du premier confinement n’est pas lié à la confiance dans les pouvoirs publics, le respect du port du masque l’est davantage, dans la rue comme dans la sphère privée. L’article plaide donc pour une attention fine portée à la mise en catégorie statistique de la confiance, et met partiellement en cause la relation de causalité entre confiance dans les institutions et respect des injonctions.
Out-of-pocket Expenditure on Medicines and Financial Risk Protection in India: Is the Sustainable Development Goal in Sight?
Authors: Goyanka Roopali , Garg Charu C.
Published: May 2023

Out-of-pocket expenditures on medicines (ME) form a large share of the total out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) and pose financial risks for Indian households. Using repeated cross-section analysis of national health surveys for 2014 and 2017–2018, change in financial risk due to ME is examined. Logit regression is used to look at the factors associated with financial risk due to medicine expenditure. Households incurring ME declined by 7%. Per capita monthly ME declined to ₹80 (US$1.25, 95% CI: 78–82) from ₹111 (US$1.74, 95% CI: 108–114). Catastrophic headcount declined to 8.6% from 13.5%, but the mean positive overshoot remained constant at ₹9.5 at the 10% threshold. Impoverishment headcount also declined to 1.4% from 2.2%, and 6.1% persons were immiserated in 2017–2018. Distribution of ME and catastrophe continued to be pro-rich, but impoverishment was greater in poorer households. Among states, the headcount of catastrophe was highest in Kerala, and Odisha had the greatest impoverishment in 2017–2018. Cancer patients faced the largest catastrophe, and tuberculosis patients faced the largest impoverishment due to ME. The odds ratio of financial vulnerability was 2.91 (95% CI: 2.5–3.3) for households with more than one member incurring ME, 1.82 (95% CI: 1.6–2.1) for households with chronic disease patients, and 1.6 (95% CI: 1.4–1.8) for private care utilisation. We conclude that declining OOPE led to a decline in financial risk due to ME.
‘To see or not to see, that is the question’ – A commentary on patient Selection for the RANZCP psychotherapy written case
Authors: Yeates Steven
Published: May 2023

Objective

This paper aims to redress the shortage of published guidance for registrars on selecting suitable patients for the RANZCP Psychotherapy Written Case Summative Assessment.

Conclusions

This article offers a common-sense approach to patient selection using psychiatric nomenclature and organises patients into proposed categories of likely suitable, possibly suitable, and unsuitable. A flowchart tool is offered for screening patients stressing a Global Assessment of Function (GAF) and the premorbid capacity to adhere to social frames such as school, university, employment, and relationships.
Factors Affecting Recanalization in Femoropopliteal Deep Vein Thrombosis
Authors: Erol Mehmet Emir , Özyalçın Sertan , Tekin Kudret Atakan , Diken Adem İlkay , Yalçınkaya Adnan , Ünal Ertekin Utku
Published: May 2023

Effects of warfarin and new-generation direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) on thrombus resolution after the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are still unknown. The study aimed to investigate the effects of warfarin and DOACs on thrombus resolution after DVT treatment. Methods: The study included 666 patients who were diagnosed with femoropopliteal DVT between January 2016 and January 2022 and had complete medical records without missing data. Patients with and without recanalization were added to groups 1 (n = 396) and 2 (n = 270), respectively. Ultrasonography/venous Doppler examinations of the patients during follow-up were performed by 3 radiologists. Recanalization was defined as the presence of complete flow in the femoral and popliteal veins and the absence of residual venous thrombus. Results: Among the included patients, recanalization was observed in 59.5% patients. The mean follow-up period was 23.6 ± 17.8 (range 1-72; median 17) months. There was no difference between the 2 groups in terms of the types of drugs used in the treatment ( P = .208). Cox regression models were used to investigate the factors affecting recanalization. Analysis of the variables having significant differences between both groups revealed the low rate of recanalization in patients with coronary artery disease (odds ratio [OR], 2.3%; 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.6-3.4; P < .001) and diabetes mellitus (OR, 1.5; 95% CI: 1.1-1.9; P = .009). Conclusion: Thrombus resolution after femoropopliteal DVT is not affected by the drugs used in the treatment.
Changes in Retail Tobacco Product Availability Following a Chicago City Ordinance Restricting Sales of Menthol and Other Flavored Tobacco Products Near Schools
Authors: Slater Sandy , Pugach Oksana , Rogers Todd , Barker Dianne C. , Ross Ashley , Tworek Cindy , Ridgeway William , Dart Leah , Engstrom Martha C.
Published: May 2023

Background

In April 2016, the City of Chicago implemented an ordinance restricting the sale of all flavored (including menthol) tobacco products (FTPs), including electronic cigarettes, at retailers located within 500 feet of any public, private, or alternative elementary, middle (“primary”), or high (“secondary”) school. We examined changes in retail availability of FTPs from before to after policy implementation among policy-affected retailers compared with retailers not subject to the policy.

Method

Observational data were collected in June to September 2015 (Wave 1; pre-policy) and November to December 2016 (Wave 2; post-policy) from a panel of 194 randomly selected policy-area stores (located within 500 feet of a school), and a panel of 199 randomly selected comparison-area stores (located more than 500 feet from a school). Using generalized estimation equation regression, we assessed differences in FTP availability changes across study areas.

Results

We observed a statistically significant policy effect on FTP availability (Area × Wave interaction, p < .05); however, more than half of policy-area retailers continued to display at least one FTP after policy implementation (87.11% at Wave 1, 57.73% at Wave 2, p < .05). Similar reductions were seen for the availability of flavored cigarillos/little cigars and menthol cigarettes, while policy effects varied across store types.

Discussion

FTP availability reductions appear to be associated with policy implementation, but FTPs remained readily available at retailers subject to the policy. This study contributes to the evidence base indicating that policies with exclusions or exemptions for certain flavors, products, store types, or retailer locations have a limited effect on retail availability of FTPs.
Current Utilization of Electron Microscopy in the Pediatric Pathology Setting: A Survey by the SPP Practice Committee
Authors: Warren Mikako , Reed Robyn C. , Prasad Vinay , Rajaram Veena , Roberts Drucilla , Kreiger Portia A. , Darrisaw Lora , Besmer Sherri , Church Alanna J. , Keisling Matthew , Craver Randall D. , Cole Bonnie L. , Robers James , Lopez-Terrada Dolores
Published: May 2023

Background:

Electron microscopy (EM), once an important component in diagnosing pediatric diseases, has experienced a decline in its use. To assess the impact of this, pediatric pathology practices were surveyed regarding EM services.

Methods:

The Society of Pediatric Pathology Practice Committee surveyed 113 society members from 74 hospitals. Settings included 36 academic tertiary, 32 free-standing children’s, and 6 community hospitals.

Results:

Over 60% maintained in-house EM services and had more than 2 pathologists interpreting EM while reporting a shortage of EM technologists. Freestanding children’s hospitals had the most specimens (100-200 per year) and more diverse specimen types. Hospitals with fewer than 50 yearly specimens often used reference laboratories. Seventeen had terminated all in-house EM services. Challenges included decreasing caseloads due to alternative diagnostic methods, high operating costs, and shortages of EM technologists and EM-proficient pathologists. Kidney, liver, cilia, heart, and muscle biopsies most often required EM. Lung/bronchoalveolar lavage, tumor, skin, gastrointestinal, nerve, platelet, and autopsy samples less commonly needed EM.

Conclusions:

The survey revealed challenges in maintaining EM services but demonstrated its sustained value in pediatric pathology. Pediatric pathologists may need to address the centralization of services and training to preserve EM diagnostic proficiency among pathologists who perform ultrastructural interpretations.
Effect of intralenticular dexamethasone implant: A case report
Authors: Carnevali Adriano , Taloni Andrea , Gatti Valentina , Lamonica Luca , Oliverio Flavia , Randazzo Giorgio , Scorcia Vincenzo
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Intravitreal dexamethasone (DEX) implant is indicated for the treatment of macular oedema due to diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion and uveitis. The most common complications are cataract and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Accidental injection of DEX implant into the lens is a rare complication and only few papers presented it.

Case Presentation

A 40-year-old man was treated with DEX implant for diabetic macular oedema in both eyes. At 1 week follow-up visit, slit lamp examination showed the DEX implant was located in the crystalline lens of the right eye (RE) without any sign of inflammation, cataract or elevated IOP, so we decided to plan a normal follow-up schedule. Macular oedema relapsed 5 months after the injection in the left eye (LE), whereas the RE did not show any sing of intraretinal or subretinal fluid. Six months after DEX implantation an uneventful phacoemulsification and intraocular lens placement were performed in the RE because of IOP elevation.

Conclusions

The therapeutic effect of DEX implant can be maintained for a longer period of time than intravitreal implant, determining complete reabsorption of macular oedema. Intralenticular implant can be maintained inside the lens until either IOP increases, cataract progresses, or other complications occur.
The High Re-Ulceration Rate in Lower Extremity Amputation Intervention in Type 2 Diabetic Vietnamese Patients After 24-Month Follow-Up at Cho Ray Hospital, Vietnam
Authors: Tan Dat Huynh , Chi Thanh Tran , Le An Pham , Thy Khue Nguyen
Published: May 2023

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are a prevalent and severe disease with vascular and/or neurological complications, and if not diagnosed and treated promptly, it may rapidly deteriorate. Despite amputation or nonamputation treatment, there is still a high rate of re-ulceration. Previous studies have shown that the recurrence rate varies from 43% to 59% after 2 years. Currently, there is still a high rate of lower extremity amputation intervention, particularly above-the-ankle amputation, at Cho Ray Hospital in Vietnam, reaching 50%. The effectiveness of this intervention in the long term based on re-ulceration has not been evaluated in Vietnamese diabetic patients (DPs). This study aims to describe the long-term outcomes of amputation intervention in Type 2 DPs after 24 months and identify factors related to DFU recurrence in order to improve DFU management in low-middle-income countries like Vietnam. From January to June 2022, archived clinical and direct visit or phone follow-up data were collected and analyzed from diabetic foot ulcer patients with low extremity amputation who were treated at Cho Ray hospital from 2018 to 2020. The high re-ulceration rate in the 24th month was 29.8% (17/57), and the factor related to this outcome was “late diagnosis and care” (32.4 days vs 26.9 days with P = .03). Other potential factors (higher rates but no significant statistical difference with P > .05) included failure of HbA1c control greater than 9% (82.5% vs 67.5%), the severity of foot ulcers with TEXAS 3B (82% vs 60%), the number of years having diabetes (8.7 years vs 6.7 years), loss of monofilament sensation (82.5% vs 70.6%), and a history of diabetic foot ulcer (17.6% vs 10%). The re-ulceration after 24 months might depend on various clinical factors. Therefore, early diagnosis and care for diabetic foot ulcers could help reduce amputation rates and the risk of re-ulceration.