bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical Windows: Exploring the Association Between Perinatal Trauma, Epigenetics, and Chronic Pain
Authors: Kodila Zoe N. , Shultz Sandy R. , Yamakawa Glenn R. , Mychasiuk Richelle
Published: May 2023

Chronic pain is highly prevalent and burdensome, affecting millions of people worldwide. Although it emerges at any point in life, it often manifests in adolescence. Given that adolescence is a unique developmental period, additional strains associated with persistent and often idiopathic pain lead to significant long-term consequences. While there is no singular cause for the chronification of pain, epigenetic modifications that lead to neural reorganization may underpin central sensitization and subsequent manifestation of pain hypersensitivity. Epigenetic processes are particularly active during the prenatal and early postnatal years. We demonstrate how exposure to various traumas, such as intimate partner violence while in utero or adverse childhood experiences, can significantly influence epigenetic regulation within the brain and in turn modify pain-related processes. We provide compelling evidence that the burden of chronic pain is likely initiated early in life, often being transmitted from mother to offspring. We also highlight two promising prophylactic strategies, oxytocin administration and probiotic use, that have the potential to attenuate the epigenetic consequences of early adversity. Overall, we advance understanding of the causal relationship between trauma and adolescent chronic pain by highlighting epigenetic mechanisms that underlie this transmission of risk, ultimately informing how to prevent this rising epidemic.
Fault diagnosis of plunger pump based on audio signal combined with meta-transfer learning
Authors: Liu Yu , Dai Yongshou , Li Ligang
Published: May 2023

To solve the problems of insufficient samples and weak fault features of audio signals in the fault diagnosis of plunger pump, this paper proposes a fault diagnosis method of plunger pump based on audio signal combined with meta-transfer learning (MTL-PAFD). The method takes the audio signals of the plunger pump as samples, which are acquired by a single sensor. Through the Gammatone filter bank processing, the representation ability of the audio signal under strong noise interference is effectively improved. Then combined with meta-transfer learning, the few-shot fault diagnosis of plunger pump is realized. In addition, according to the actual needs of fault diagnosis of plunger pump, the test method of meta-transfer learning in fault diagnosis application is improved, which can process unknown fault classes adaptively. Experimental results show that MTL-PAFD has a fault diagnosis accuracy of 91.41% for seen classes. After fast adaptive learning, it can achieve an accuracy of 89.64% when identifying unseen fault classes.
Bacterial colonisation and the effect of a cleaning regime on iPad patient side electronic devices used in a veterinary healthcare setting
Authors: Zurita Maria , Garland Matthew , Ryan Tony
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of clinically relevant bacteria on the surface of hospital-issued iPads and to assess the effectiveness and residual effect of a new cleaning regime using 70% alcohol and 2% chlorhexidine wipes.

Methods

Hospital-issued iPads were swabbed to determine the presence of clinically relevant organisms. The iPads were wiped using 70% alcohol and 2% chlorhexidine. Further samples were taken 5 mins, 6 h and 12 h after implementation of the cleaning regime. Cultured bacteria were tested for antimicrobial resistance.

Results

A total of 25 hospital-issued iPads were analysed. Seventeen iPads (68%) sampled in this study were contaminated. Bacillus species (21%) were the most predominant, followed by Pasteurella species (14%), Acinetobacter species (11%), Eikenella species (11%), beta-haemolytic streptococci (11%), coagulase-positive staphylococci (7%), Escherichia coli (7%), coagulase-negative staphylococci (7%), alpha-haemolytic streptococci (3%), Enterococcus species (4%) and Pseudomonas species (4%). Of the isolated bacteria, 89% were resistant to at least one of the tested antibiotics. Of our isolates, 24 (75%) were resistant to clindamycin. After the cleaning regime, there was no bacterial growth from any of the devices at 5 mins, 6 h and 12 h despite repetitive use within the hospital.

Conclusions and relevance

A variety of nosocomial pathogens, including antibiotic resistant pathogens, were isolated from the iPads. Cleaning with 70% alcohol and 2% chlorhexidine wipes is recommended every 12 h during use, between patient contacts and after witnessed contamination. A variety of nosocomial pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant pathogens with potential devastating effects on both human and animal health, were isolated from the iPads. Infection prevention strategies related to the devices should be employed in a hospital setting.
Factors for Consideration When Setting Prices for Private Healthcare Providers Operating in Public Systems: A Comparison of France and Japan
Authors: Honda Ayako , Cartailler Julie , Cailhol Johann , Noda Shinichiro , Or Zeynep
Published: May 2023

Background:

Most publicly-funded health systems purchase healthcare from private providers, but the optimal purchasing arrangements between public purchasers and private healthcare providers are yet to be determined.

Objective:

This study compares the healthcare purchasing arrangements made with private providers in 2 social health insurance (SHI)-based systems to identify factors that influence the prices paid for private healthcare service provision.

Results:

France and Japan use different approaches to determine the payment arrangements with public and private providers. The presence of for-profit healthcare providers in the French health system explains the different payment rates for public and private healthcare providers in that country. In both France and Japan, in addition to payment rates, several policy tools are used to assure the provision of public good services and the availability of necessary healthcare for all, which public providers are required to deliver but private providers can choose to deliver.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the importance of considering the profit-making status of the private healthcare providers operating in the healthcare market, and clarity in the roles and responsibilities of the public, for-profit and not-for-profit providers when determining healthcare purchasing arrangements. Regulatory policy instruments, used alongside payment rates, are essential to influence efficiency, equity, and quality in mixed (public-private) health systems.
#TeamAlienadas: Anti-feminist ideologic work in the Spanish manosphere
Authors: Díaz Fernández Silvia , García Mingo Elisa , Fuentes Anita
Published: May 2023

‘Manosphere’ has become a popular term used to make sense of the growth of online masculinist subcultures and the rise in misogynistic discourses in digital environments. In this emergent field of research, a twofold gap exists: first, in exploring the local Spanish manosphere, as the majority of studies on the manosphere are set in Anglo-Saxon contexts, and second, in understanding women who also inhabit these spaces. In this article, we address this gap by carrying out a digital ethnography focusing on a group of women who partake in the Spanish manosphere organised under the hashtag #TeamAlienadas. We understand #TeamAlienadas as producing an affective anti-feminist ideology that enables women to legitimise men’s claims to victimhood under feminism and construct themselves as carers of men through specific digital practices. We argue that this affective anti-feminist ideology leads to the production of specifically anti-feminist gender knowledge, underpinned by a postfeminist sense-making, which mobilises ideas of empowerment. Drawing on Foucault’s theorisation of ‘regimes of truth’, we argue that #TeamAlienadas’ development of an affective anti-feminist ideology works to produce a kind of truth, which delegitimises feminism and aims to dismantle feminist politics in ways that could lead to accentuated female subjugation to patriarchy.
Investigations on the shearing performance of composite beams with group studs
Authors: Jun Chen , Shaoqian Wang , Xuebing Zhang , Hui Xu , Fu Xu , Yuqing Liu , Caiqian Yang , Qing Xia , Huaping Wang , Faxing Ding , Ping Xiang
Published: May 2023

Steel-concrete composite beams are widely used in building structures due to the excellent mechanical performances. In the application of steel-concrete composite beam, the problem exists in the coordination between concrete slab and steel beam. In this work, based on the Eurocode-4, a series of four 1:1 full-size push-out specimens were designed to study the influence of different napping arrangement styles on the shear performance of the napping joints in the cast-in-place specimens and prefabricated specimens. Based on the test results, finite element analysis was finished for parametric analysis. The test results show that the final failure modes of the specimens include concrete failure and bolt shear. Increasing the concrete grade of the precast specimen can improve the shear resistance of the bolt group. The uniformly arranged specimens show higher shear stiffness and ductility compared to the non-uniformly arranged specimens. The results of finite element analysis showed that the shear capacity of the group nails was increased with the increase of the compressive strength grade of the post-pouring material and the longitudinal spacing of the bolts, and the increase of the spacing of the bolts was more effective in improving the shear capacity of the group nails.
Teaching Myanmar students under the Gaokao policy in a borderland school: Teachers’ challenges and agency
Authors: Li Jia , Ai Bin
Published: May 2023

This study examines the classroom interactions and agentive practices of a cohort of Chinese teachers when teaching Myanmar students under the Gaokao policy at a borderland high school in China. The complexities of teaching Myanmar students of diverse backgrounds are manifested in the context of the constraints of professional accountability and working conditions. The study reveals these teachers’ classroom norms and interactions are an outcome of negotiations between their agency and structural power. The teachers’ expectations of the international students’ abilities and prospects are constrained by the limitations of the current curriculum. The paper argues that internal and external conditions contribute to restricting the students’ access to educational resources and employment prospects. This paper draws attention to tensions and dilemmas of pedagogic practice in a borderland setting and calls for setting up a hybrid, inclusive third space for students and teachers in international education.
Co-creation of food tourism experiences: Tourists’ perspectives of a Lisbon food tour
Authors: Carvalho Mariana , Kastenholz Elisabeth , Carneiro Maria João , Souza Luís
Published: May 2023

Gastronomy has become a distinctive tourism product with the potential of contributing to visitors’ engaged immersion in destinations. Few studies have reflected on visitors’ perceptions of participation in food tour experiences, and research on co-creation in food tours is even more scarce. This study analyses co-creative tourism experience dimensions, previously identified in the literature, through a passive netnography, involving 658 online tourist reviews on TripAdvisor of a food tour experience in Lisbon, to understand how value was co-created by comparing the perceptions of visitors and the service provider. Interview-based data were subject to content analysis. Results showed that “aesthetics/sense,” “feel,” “thinking/education,” “relate,” and “personalization” were the most reported dimensions in tourists’ discourse, which was confirmed by the service provider. The present study provides insights to destination management organizations, marketers and entrepreneurs in creating opportunities for and designing appealing co-creative food experiences.
The student voice for social justice pedagogical method: Learning outcomes and challenges
Authors: Wong Koon Lin , Briffett-Aktaş Carla , Kong Wing Fun Oliver , Ho Choi Pat
Published: May 2023

To create a socially just teaching method in higher education (HE), we used Fraser’s social justice framework to create a new pedagogical method called student voice for social justice (SVSJ). SVSJ emphasizes student voice and empowerment by developing a co-constructed learning space where students can influence the procedure and content of the class. Applying a participatory action research (PAR) methodology, we explore the skill development of students engaged in SVSJ. Students highlighted five primary learning outcomes (self-learning, critical thinking, knowledge generation, cognitive development, and expression of voice) in the interviews as well as challenges in implementing the model. By employing SVSJ, students’ recognition and representation of their identity groups are enhanced, and the knowledge held by them is redistributed to peers and the lecturer through active participation. In addition, they are equipped with skills that can empower them in their education and future life.
The impact of a pilot telehealth coaching intervention to improve caregiver stress and well-being and to increase dietary protein intake of caregivers and their family members with dementia – Interrupted by COVID-19
Authors: D’Avolio Deborah , Gropper Sareen S , Appelbaum Megan , Thiengtham Supavadee , Holt Janet , Newman David
Published: May 2023

The prevalence of dementia is growing as the population and longevity increase. Caregivers of adults with dementia report stress and fatigue and often neglect their health. They also indicate the need for information to address health-related issues, including nutritional problems, of their family members with dementia (FMWD). This study examined the impact of coaching to improve family caregiver (FCG) stress and well-being and to increase the protein intake of both FCGs and their FMWD. All participants received nutrition education including a protein prescription (1.2 g/kg body weight/day) and FCGs received stress-reduction materials. Coached-group randomized participants also received weekly diet coaching and stress-reduction coaching. At baseline and 8 weeks, anthropometrics, a mini-nutritional assessment questionnaire, and diet (protein intake) were assessed in FCGs and FMWD; well-being, fatigue and strain were assessed in FCGs. Repeated two words measures analysis of variance and Fisher’s exact tests examined within group and intervention effects. Twenty-five FCGs (13 coached group, 12 not-coached group) and 23 FMWD (12 coached group, 11 not-coached group) completed the study. No significant differences were found between coached and not-coached FCGs and FMWD at baseline. After 8- weeks, FCGs’ protein intake significantly increased from 1.00 ± 0.17 to 1.35 ± 0.23 g/kg/body weight in the coached group and from 0.91 ± 0.19 to 1.01 ± 0.33 g/kg/body weight in the not-coached group; there was also an intervention effect (p=.01, η2 = .24). The percentage of FCGs with baseline protein intake less than prescription guidelines and with an end-of-study protein intake meeting/exceeding the prescription significantly differed, with 60% of coached FCGs versus 10% of not coached FCGs meeting the prescription. No intervention effects were shown for protein intake in FMWD or for well-being, fatigue or strain among FCGs. Diet coaching with nutrition education successfully assisted FCGs with improving their protein intake versus nutrition education alone.
KIF4 Gene Variant’s Disruption of PARP1 Signaling Increases Anxiety and Seizure Susceptibility
Authors: Bordey Angelique
Published: May 2023

[Box: see text]
Angiographic analysis of ophthalmic artery flow direction in children undergoing chemosurgery for retinoblastoma compared to age-matched controls
Authors: Feldman Michael , Grimaudo Heather , Roth Steven , Mummareddy Nishit , Vance Haley , Daniels Anthony B , Froehler Michael T
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Catheter-based intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) has revolutionized the treatment of retinoblastoma (RB). Variability in ophthalmic artery (OA) flow, either retrograde from external carotid artery branches, or anterograde from the internal carotid artery, necessitates multiple IAC techniques. We evaluated the direction of OA flow and identify OA flow reversal events over the course of IAC treatment as well in comparison to OA flow direction in non-RB children.

Materials and Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of OA flow direction in all RB patients treated with IAC, along with an age-matched control group who underwent cerebral angiography at our center from 2014 to 2020.

Results

IAC was administered to a total of 18 eyes (15 patients). Initial anterograde OA flow was demonstrated in 66% ( n  =  12) of eyes. Five OA reversal events were identified (3/5 anterograde-to-retrograde). All five events were in patients receiving multiagent chemotherapy. No correlation was found between OA flow reversal events and the initial IAC technique. A control group of 88 angiograms representing 82 eyes (41 patients) was utilized. The anterograde flow was observed in 76 eyes (86.4%). Our control group included 19 patients with sequential angiograms. One OA flow reversal event was identified.

Conclusion

OA flow direction is dynamic in IAC patients. Anterograde and retrograde OA directional switches do occur and may necessitate delivery technique variation. In our analysis, all OA flow reversal events were associated with multiagent chemotherapy regimens. Both anterograde and retrograde OA flow patterns were observed in our control cohort, suggesting bidirectional flow can occur in non-RB children.
Cost-effectiveness of trastuzumab deruxtecan in previously treated human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-low metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Yang Jiangping , Han Jiaqi , Zeng Ni , Yan Xi
Published: May 2023

Background:

Results from DESTINY-Breast04 trial revealed that trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) improved both progression-free survival and overall survival for patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-low metastatic breast cancer (mBC). However, the economic impact of this practice remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of T-DXd on HER2-low mBC from the viewpoint of U.S. payers.

Methods:

Using the clinical data from the DESTINY-Breast04 trial, a three-state Markov model was created to assess the economic and health effects of T-DXd versus chemotherapy. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) and willingness-to-pay threshold were determined and compared. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were used to measure parameter uncertainty.

Results:

In the overall HER2-low population, T-DXd provided additional 0.47 quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) at an increased cost of $149,222 compared with chemotherapy, yielding an ICER of $317,494/QALY. The ICER was $353,903/QALY in the hormone receptor (HR)-positive subgroup, which decreased to $259,825/QALY in the HR-negative subgroup. The sensitivity analysis found that T-DXd would not be cost-effective in the base-case. The expected cost of T-DXd will be less than $4,281/cycle ($11.33/mg) or $1,903/cycle ($5.03/mg) to achieve a 50 or 90% cost–benefit probability, respectively.

Conclusions:

T-DXd provides significant health benefit for patients with HER2-low mBC compared with chemotherapy but is unlikely to be cost-effective in the United States.
Are Guilt-Prone Power-Holders Less Corrupt? Evidence From Two Online Experiments
Authors: Hu Yang , Qiu Shiwei , Wang Gaotong , Liu Kui , Li Weijian , Yu Hongbo , Zhou Xiaolin
Published: May 2023

Bribery is ubiquitous in human society. Yet it remains unknown how bribe-taking behaviors of power-holders and underlying psychological processes are affected by guilt-proneness, a crucial moral-related personality trait, and how this trait–behavior association depends on harm salience brought by bribery. To address these questions, we conducted two online experiments ( Ntotal = 2, 082) combining economic games with personality measures. Experiment 1 showed that highly guilt-prone individuals were less willing to take bribes, especially when higher harm salience was involved. Leveraging a parametric design with computational modeling, Experiment 2 confirmed the moderation effect of harm salience, and revealed a mediation role of the concern for others’ suffering, a key psychological construct in the trait–behavior association. Together, these findings demonstrate a critical function of guilt-proneness in curbing bribe-taking behaviors and suggest the concern for others’ suffering as an underlying psychological mechanism.
The proximal balloon occlusion together with direct thrombus aspiration (protect plus) technique: Experience at a tertiary comprehensive stroke center
Authors: Parra-Fariñas Carmen , Diestro Jose Danilo Bengzon , Dmytriw Adam A , Almusalam Noora , Rajendram Phavalan , Phillips Rebecca , Alqabbani Abdullah , Qazi Emmad , Hui Nicholas , Li Yangmei , Montanera Walter , Sarma Dipanka , Spears Julian , Marotta Thomas R , Bharatha Aditya
Published: May 2023

Background

Timely restoration of cerebral blood flow using reperfusion therapy is the most effective maneuver for salvaging penumbra. We re-evaluated the previously described PROTECT (PRoximal balloon Occlusion TogEther with direCt Thrombus aspiration during stent retriever thrombectomy) Plus technique at a tertiary comprehensive stroke center.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed all patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy with stentrievers between May 2011 and April 2020. Patients were divided between those who underwent PROTECT Plus and those who did not (proximal balloon occlusion with stent retriever only). We compared the groups in terms of reperfusion, groin to reperfusion time, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at discharge.

Results

Within the study period, 167 (71.4%) PROTECT Plus and 67 (28.6%) non-PROTECT patients which met our inclusion criteria. There was no statistically significant difference in the number of patients with successful reperfusion (mTICI >2b) between the techniques (85.0% vs 82.1%; p = 0.58). The PROTECT Plus group had lower rates of mRS ≤2 at discharge (40.1% vs 57.6%; p = 0.016). The rate of sICH was comparable ( p = 0.35) between the PROTECT Plus group (7.2%) and the non-PROTECT group (3.0%).

Conclusion

The PROTECT Plus technique using a BGC, a distal reperfusion catheter and stent retriever is feasible for recanalization of large vessel occlusions. Successful recanalization, first-pass recanalization and complication rates are similar between PROTECT Plus and non-PROTECT stent retriever techniques. This study adds to an existing body of literature detailing techniques that use both a stent retriever and a distal reperfusion catheter to maximize recanalization for patients with large vessel occlusions.
MR imaging differentiating features between lytic and degenerative lumbosacral spondylolisthesis
Authors: Vilanilam George K , Kumar Shruti , Vattoth Surjith
Published: May 2023

Spondylolisthesis is characterized by the displacement of one vertebral body in relation to the adjacent vertebra. It is commonly observed in the lower lumbar region and can be caused by a variety of factors, including spondylolysis (a fracture in the pars interarticularis) or degenerative disease. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is becoming increasingly popular as the primary modality for evaluation of low back pain and is often used in the absence of radiographs or Computed Tomography. However, it can be challenging for radiologists to differentiate between the two types of spondylolisthesis based on MRI alone. The goal of this article is to identify key imaging features on MRI that can aid radiologists in differentiating between spondylolysis and degenerative spondylolisthesis on MRI. Five key concepts are discussed: the “step-off” sign, the “wide canal” sign, T2 cortical bone signal on MRI, epidural fat interposition, and fluid in the facet joints. The utility, limitations and potential pitfalls of these concepts are also discussed to provide a comprehensive understanding of their use in differentiating between the two types of spondylolisthesis on MRI.
Identification of early symptoms of endometriosis through the analysis of online social networks: A social media study
Authors: Fruchart Mathilde , El Idrissi Fatima , Lamer Antoine , Belarbi Karim , Lemdani Mohamed , Zitouni Djamel , Guinhouya Benjamin C
Published: May 2023

Objective

Endometriosis is a complex full-body inflammation disease with an average time to diagnosis of 7–10 years. Social networks give opportunity to patient to openly discuss about their condition, share experiences, and seek advice. Thus, data from social media may provide insightful data about patient's experience. This study aimed at applying a text-mining approach to online social networks in order to identify early signs associated with endometriosis.

Methods

An automated exploration technique of online forums was performed to extract posts. After a cleaning step of the built corpus, we retrieved all symptoms evoked by women, and connected them to the MedDRA dictionary. Then, temporal markers allowed targeting only the earliest symptoms. The latter were those evoked near a marker of precocity. A co-occurrence approach was further applied to better account for the context of evocations.

Results

Results were visualised using the graph-oriented database Neo4j. We collected 7148 discussions threads and 78,905 posts from 10 French forums. We extracted 41 groups of contextualised symptoms, including 20 groups of early symptoms associated with endometriosis. Among these groups of early symptoms, 13 were found to portray already known signs of endometriosis. The remaining 7 clusters of early symptoms were limb oedema, muscle pain, neuralgia, haematuria, vaginal itching, altered general condition (i.e. dizziness, fatigue, nausea) and hot flush.

Conclusion

We pointed out some additional symptoms of endometriosis qualified as early symptoms, which can serve as a screening tool for prevention and/or treatment purpose. The present findings offer an opportunity for further exploration of early biological processes triggering this disease.
The Relationship Between Music-Related Types of Synesthesia and Mental Imagery in Synesthete Musicians
Authors: Glasser Solange
Published: May 2023

Synesthesia is a perceptual and conceptual phenomenon that has been linked to a heightened capacity for mental imagery. However, our understanding of music-related types of synesthesia and mental imagery is still in its infancy. This study therefore aims to examine the relationship between music-related types of synesthesia and mental imagery in a sample of synesthete musicians. Four forms of data collection were employed: an online survey, a synesthesia test battery, an absolute pitch test, and a semi-structured interview. This article focuses on results obtained in response to open-ended questions relating to synesthete musicians’ mental imagery. An analysis of the interview data revealed heightened vividness of auditory imagery (AI), including the ability to control the speed, dynamics, and intensity of the imagery. A bidirectional analysis of the functional relationship between AI and synesthesia ascertained that multimodal mental imagery (MMI) could be triggered by AI, thus bypassing the need for sensory stimulation. Furthermore, cases of complex visual imagery (CVI) were confirmed to meet the synesthetic criteria of being automatic and involuntary, as well as being consistent and stable mappings between specific musical stimuli and CVI. These findings are noteworthy as they call into question the general assumption that synesthetic percepts are generic and simple in nature. Together, these findings contribute to our understanding of music-related types of synesthesia and mental imagery, challenge contemporary understanding of certain categorical aspects of music-related synesthetic percepts, and provide us with a deeper understanding of the nature of cross-modal associations in general.
Serial Changes in Clinical Outcomes After Arthroscopic Osteocapsular Arthroplasty for Primary Elbow Osteoarthritis: A Medium-term Follow-up Study
Authors: So Sang-Pil , Kwak Jae-Man , Lee Jun-Bum , Ben Hui , Kim Keun Ho , Koh Kyoung-Hwan , Jeon In-Ho
Published: May 2023

Background:

Arthroscopic osteocapsular arthroplasty (OCA) shows promising short-term outcomes for primary elbow osteoarthritis (OA). However, serial changes in clinical outcomes for medium-term follow-up are not well known.

Purpose:

To evaluate clinical outcomes after arthroscopic OCA in primary elbow OA from preoperative to short- and medium-term follow-up and to analyze the correlation between the time from short- to medium-term follow-up and the changes in clinical outcomes between the periods.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Patients with primary elbow OA who were treated with arthroscopic OCA between January 2010 and April 2020 were evaluated. Elbow range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) were assessed preoperatively and at short-term (3-12 months) and medium-term (≥2 years) follow-up. The correlation between the time from short- to medium-term follow-up and the changes in clinical outcomes was analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results:

Included were 56 patients who underwent short-term follow-up (mean [range], 5.9 [3-12] months) and medium-term follow-up (62.2 [24-129] months) after arthroscopic OCA. When compared with preoperative values, significant improvements were seen at short-term follow-up: ROM (from 89.4° to 111.7°; P < .001), VAS for pain (from 4.9 to 2.0; P < .001), and MEPS (from 62.3 to 83.7; P < .001). From short- to medium-term follow-up, ROM decreased (from 111.7° to 105.4°; P = .001) while VAS for pain (from 2.0 to 1.4; P = .031) and MEPS (from 83.7 to 87.8; P = .016) improved. All outcomes improved significantly at medium-term follow-up as compared with preoperative values ( P < .001 for all). The time between short- and medium-term follow-up had a significant positive correlation with decreased ROM ( r = 0.290; P = .030) and a significant negative correlation with improvement in MEPS ( r = –0.274; P = .041).

Conclusion:

Serial assessment of patients with primary elbow OA who underwent arthroscopic OCA showed that the clinical outcomes improved from preoperative assessment to short- and medium-term follow-up, although ROM decreased between short- and medium-term follow-up. VAS for pain and MEPS showed continued improvement until medium-term follow-up.
Bilateral Humeral Retrotorsion Angle Measured Using an Ultrasound-Assisted Technique in Asian Baseball Players
Authors: Ike Shota , Momma Daisuke , Numaguchi Kyosuke , Matsui Yuki , Yokota Masashi , Oohinata Jun , Kondo Eiji , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: May 2023

Background:

Repetitive pitching is thought to restrict the physiological derotation process of the humeral head. Some studies have reported that side-to-side differences in the humeral retrotorsion angle (ΔHRA) occur between the ages of 9 and 11 years in baseball players. However, it remains unclear whether the ΔHRA in Asian baseball players depends on pitching skill or competitive level.

Purpose:

To evaluate the ΔHRA in Asian collegiate and professional baseball players and to determine the effects of pitching activity on the physiological derotation process of the humeral head.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

We evaluated 128 shoulders in 64 Asian baseball players who were stratified into 4 groups as follows: 13 professional pitchers; 9 professional fielders; 8 collegiate pitchers; and 34 collegiate fielders. The throwing and nonthrowing side HRA was assessed using an ultrasound-assisted technique, and the ΔHRA was compared among the 4 groups. In addition, Pearson correlation analysis was used to assess the relationship between ΔHRA and glenohumeral range of motion, baseball starting age, and fastball velocity in pitchers.

Results:

The HRA was significantly greater in the throwing arm than in the nonthrowing arm in each group, with no significant differences among the groups. There was no correlation between ΔHRA and range of motion or fastball velocity. There was a significant negative correlation between baseball starting age and ΔHRA in professional fielders ( r = –0.633; P = .036).

Conclusion:

The findings of the present study provide evidence that in Asian baseball players, the HRA was significantly greater in the throwing arm than in the nonthrowing arm. There were no clear associations between HRA and pitching ability or competitive level.
Trochlear Shape and Patient-Reported Outcomes After Arthroscopic Deepening Trochleoplasty and Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction: A Retrospective Cohort Study Including MRI Assessments of the Trochlear Groove
Authors: Blønd Lars , Barfod Kristoffer Weisskirchner
Published: May 2023

Background:

Sparse objective data are available documenting changes of trochlear shape after trochleoplasty.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose was to investigate whether standardized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements that characterize trochlear dysplasia (TD) change significantly after arthroscopic deepening trochleoplasty (ADT) combined with medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction. It was hypothesized that MRI measurements would approximate normal values.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Patients who underwent ADT between October 2014 and December 2017 were considered for this study. The preoperative inclusion criteria for ADT surgery were patellar instability, a dynamic patellar apprehension sign at 45° of flexion, a lateral trochlear inclination (LTI) angle of <11°, and failed physical therapy. MRI was performed pre- and postoperatively, and standardized MRI measurements were calculated: LTI angle, trochlear depth, trochlear facet asymmetry, cartilage thickness, and trochlear height. The Banff Patella Instability Instrument 2.0 (BPII) score, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and Kujala score were obtained pre- and postoperatively.

Results:

A total of 16 knees in 15 patients (12 female and 3 male; median age, 20.9 years; range, 14.1-51.3 years) were evaluated. The mean follow-up time was 63.6 months (range, 23-97 months). The median LTI angle improved from 1.25° (range, –25.1° to 10.6°) preoperatively to 10.7° (range, –17.7° to 25.8°) postoperatively ( P < .001), trochlear depth increased from 0.0 mm (range, –4.2 to 1.8 mm) to 3.23 mm (range, 0.25-5.3 mm) ( P < .001), and trochlear facet asymmetry improved from 4.55% (range, 0.0%-28.6%) to 17.8% (range, 0.0%-55.6%) ( P < .003). Cartilage thickness was unchanged: 4.5 mm (range, 1.9-7.4 mm) preoperatively and 4.9 mm (range, 0.6-8.3 mm) postoperatively ( P = .796). BPII, KOOS, and Kujala scores improved significantly ( P < .0034 for all).

Conclusion:

Combined ADT and MPFL reconstruction led to statistically significant and clinically relevant improvements in patient-reported outcomes and standardized MRI measurements that characterize TD. The improvements corresponded to those obtained by open trochleoplasty. No significant reduction in cartilage thickness was seen.
Nailfold capillaroscopy and candidate-biomarker levels in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary hypertension: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Lemmers Jacqueline MJ , van Caam Arjan PM , Kersten Brigit , van den Ende Cornelia HM , Knaapen Hanneke , van Dijk Arie PJ , Hagmolen of ten Have Wanda , van den Hoogen Frank HJ , Koenen Hans , van Leuven Sander I , Alkema Wynand , Smeets Ruben L , Vonk Madelon C
Published: May 2023

Objectives:

Pulmonary hypertension is one of the leading causes of death in systemic sclerosis. Early detection and treatment of pulmonary hypertension in systemic sclerosis is crucial. Nailfold capillaroscopy microscopy, vascular autoantibodies AT1R and ETAR, and several candidate-biomarkers have the potential to serve as noninvasive tools to identify systemic sclerosis patients at risk for developing pulmonary hypertension. Here, we explore the classifying potential of nailfold capillaroscopy microscopy characteristics and serum levels of selected candidate-biomarkers in a sample of systemic sclerosis patients with and without different forms of pulmonary hypertension.

Methods:

A total of 81 consecutive systemic sclerosis patients were included, 40 with systemic sclerosis pulmonary hypertension and 41 with no pulmonary hypertension. In each group, quantitative and qualitative nailfold capillaroscopy microscopy characteristics, vascular autoantibodies AT1R and ETAR, and serum levels of 24 soluble serum factors were determined. For evaluation of the nailfold capillaroscopy microscopy characteristics, linear regression analysis accounting for age, sex, and diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide percentage predicted was used. Autoantibodies and soluble serum factor levels were compared using two-sample t test with equal variances.

Results:

No statistically significant differences were observed in quantitative or qualitative nailfold capillaroscopy microscopy characteristics, or vascular autoantibody ETAR and AT1R titer between systemic sclerosis–pulmonary hypertension and systemic sclerosis–no pulmonary hypertension. In contrast, several serum levels of soluble factors differed between groups: Endostatin, sVCAM, and VEGFD were increased, and CXCL4, sVEGFR2, and PDGF-AB/BB were decreased in systemic sclerosis–pulmonary hypertension. Random forest classification identified Endostatin and CXCL4 as the most predictive classifiers to distinguish systemic sclerosispulmonary hypertension from systemic sclerosis-no pulmonary hypertension.

Conclusion:

This study shows the potential for several soluble serum factors to distinguish systemic sclerosis-pulmonary hypertension from systemic sclerosis-no pulmonary hypertension. We found no classifying potential for qualitative or quantitative nailfold capillaroscopy microscopy characteristics, or vascular autoantibodies.
ASCE/SEI 41 assessment of reinforced concrete buildings: Benchmarking linear procedures and FEMA P-2018 with empirical damage observations
Authors: Sen Andrew , Cook Dustin , Liel Abbie , Basnet Tarbin , Creagh Ariel , Khodadadi Koodiani Hamid , Berkowitz Russell , Ghannoum Wassim , Hortacsu Ayse , Kim Insung , Lehman Dawn , Lowes Laura , Matamoros Adolfo , Naeim Farzad , Sattar Siamak , Smith Rob
Published: May 2023

The US consensus standard for seismic evaluation and retrofit of existing buildings, ASCE/SEI 41, establishes provisions for seismic analysis procedures that vary in complexity and fidelity. Although ASCE/SEI 41 provides detailed nonlinear dynamic procedures, most engineers rely on simpler methods to evaluate building seismic performance and retrofit, particularly the ASCE/SEI 41 linear procedures and, more recently, the FEMA P-2018 methodology for evaluating collapse potential. Under ideal conditions, these procedures identify similar structural deficiencies. However, evaluation outcomes in practice may differ due to the complexity of real building response, approximations used in modeling and analysis, and level of intentional conservativism that reflects the limitations of the procedures. To quantify these differences, this study considers six reinforced concrete buildings that sustained damage in real earthquakes or in shake table tests and compares the performance assessed by the ASCE/SEI 41 linear and nonlinear dynamic procedures, as well as the FEMA P-2018 seismic evaluation methodology. The results show that for these highly damaged buildings, the overall performance level estimated from the ASCE/SEI 41 linear procedures is consistent with observed damage. In general, the procedures also correctly identify the story with the most damage and the component failure mode. However, the ASCE/SEI 41 linear procedure generally underpredicts drift response and greatly overpredicts peak floor accelerations. Though these are not directly used to evaluate structural performance, they are related to component deformation and force demands, respectively. Moreover, the linear procedures predict damage in components that would be precluded by yielding or failure of other components in the load path. Results from the FEMA P-2018 methodology for the six buildings provide more distinction between buildings than the ASCE/SEI 41 Collapse Prevention performance level. The results also suggest the FEMA P-2018 limit-state mechanism analysis can provide supplemental information to support and improve the ASCE/SEI 41 linear procedures.
Vemurafenib combined with cladribine and cytarabine results in durable remission of pediatric BRAF V600E–positive LCH
Authors: Evseev Dmitry , Osipova Daria , Kalinina Irina , Raykina Elena , Ignatova Anna , Lyudovskikh Evelina , Baidildina Dina , Popov Alexander , Zhogov Vladimir , Semchenkova Alexandra , Litvin Eugeny , Kotskaya Natalia , Cherniak Ekaterina , Voronin Kirill , Burtsev Eugeny , Bronin Gleb , Vlasova Irina , Purbueva Bazarma , Fink Olesya , Pristanskova Ekaterina , Dzhukaeva Irina , Erega Elena , Novichkova Galina , Maschan Alexey , Maschan Michael
Published: May 2023

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a disorder with a variety of clinical signs. The most severe forms affect risk organs (RO). The established role of the BRAF V600E mutation in LCH led to a targeted approach. However, targeted therapy cannot cure the disease, and cessation leads to quick relapses. Here, we combined cytosine-arabinoside (Ara-C) and 2'-chlorodeoxyadenosine (2-CdA) with targeted therapy to achieve stable remission. Nineteen children were enrolled in the study: 13 were RO-positive (RO+) and 6 RO-negative (RO–). Five patients received the therapy upfront, whereas the other 14 received it as a second or third line. The protocol starts with 28 days of vemurafenib (20 mg/kg), which is followed by 3 courses of Ara-C and 2-CdA (100 mg/m2 every 12 h, 6 mg/m2 per day, days 1-5) with concomitant vemurafenib therapy. After that, vemurafenib therapy was stopped, and 3 courses of mono 2-CdA followed. All patients rapidly responded to vemurafenib: the median disease activity score decreased from 13 to 2 points in the RO+ group and from 4.5 to 0 points in the RO– group on day 28. All patients except 1 received complete protocol treatment, and 15 of them did not have disease progression. The 2-year reactivation/progression-free survival (RFS) for RO+ was 76.9% with a median follow-up of 21 months and 83.3% with a median follow-up of 29 months for RO–. Overall survival is 100%. Importantly, 1 patient experienced secondary myelodysplastic syndrome after 14 months from vemurafenib cessation. Our study demonstrates that combined vemurafenib plus 2-CdA and Ara-C is effective in a cohort of children with LCH, and the toxicity is manageable. This trial is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03585686.
Cytokine release syndrome in haploidentical stem cell transplant may impact T-cell recovery and relapse
Authors: Shapiro Roman M. , Kim Haesook T. , Ansuinelli Michela , Guleria Indira , Cutler Corey S. , Koreth John , Gooptu Mahasweta , Antin Joseph H. , Kelkar Amar , Ritz Jerome , Wu Catherine J. , Soiffer Robert J. , Ho Vincent T. , Nikiforow Sarah , Romee Rizwan
Published: May 2023

Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) following haploidentical hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) resembles CRS after chimeric antigen receptor-T therapy. We conducted this single-center retrospective study to evaluate the association of posthaploidentical HCT CRS with clinical outcomes and immune reconstitution. One hundred sixty-nine patients who underwent haploidentical HCT between 2011 and 2020 were identified. Of these, 98 patients (58%) developed CRS after HCT. CRS was diagnosed based on the presence of fever within the first 5 days after HCT without evidence of infection or infusion reaction and was graded according to established criteria. The development of posthaploidentical HCT CRS was associated with a lower incidence of disease relapse (P = .024) but with an increased risk of chronic graft-versus-host disease GVHD (P = .01). The association of CRS with a lower incidence of relapse was not confounded by graft source or disease diagnosis. Neither CD34 nor total nucleated cell dose was associated with CRS independently of graft type. In patients developing CRS, CD4+ Treg (P < .0005), CD4+ Tcon (P < .005), and CD8+ T cells (P < .005) increased 1 month after HCT compared with those who did not develop CRS, but not at later time points. The increase in CD4+ regulatory T cells 1 month after HCT was most notable among patients with CRS who received a bone marrow graft (P < .005). The development of posthaploidentical HCT CRS is associated with a reduced incidence of disease relapse and a transient effect on post-HCT immune reconstitution of T cells and their subsets. Therefore, the validation of these observations in a multicenter cohort is required.
S100 proteins in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Zhou Yue , Zha Yiwen , Yang Yongqi , Ma Tan , Li Hongliang , Liang Jingyan
Published: May 2023

Cardiovascular diseases have become a serious threat to human health and life worldwide and have the highest fatality rate. Therefore, the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases have become a focus for public health experts. The expression of S100 proteins is cell- and tissue-specific; they are implicated in cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and inflammatory diseases and cancer. This review article discusses the progress in the research on the role of S100 protein family members in cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the mechanisms by which these proteins exert their biological function may provide novel concepts for preventing, treating, and predicting cardiovascular diseases.
Cancer-associated fibroblasts and its derived exosomes: a new perspective for reshaping the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Peng Zhiwei , Tong Zhiwei , Ren Zihao , Ye Manping , Hu Kongwang
Published: May 2023

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most abundant stromal cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). They extensively communicate with the other cells. Exosome-packed bioactive molecules derived from CAFs can reshape the TME by interacting with other cells and the extracellular matrix, which adds a new perspective for their clinical application in tumor targeted therapy. An in-depth understanding of the biological characteristics of CAF-derived exosomes (CDEs) is critical for depicting the detailed landscape of the TME and developing tailored therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. In this review, we have summarized the functional roles of CAFs in the TME, particularly focusing on the extensive communication mediated by CDEs that contain biological molecules such as miRNAs, proteins, metabolites, and other components. In addition, we have also highlighted the prospects for diagnostic and therapeutic applications based on CDEs, which could guide the future development of exosome-targeted anti-tumor drugs.