bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluctuations in Oxygen Saturation during Synchronized Nasal Intermittent Positive Pressure Ventilation and Nasal High-Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation in Very Low Birth Weight Infants: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Atanasov Svilen , Dippel Constanze , Takoulegha Dupleix , Windhorst Anita , Schuler Rahel , Strodthoff Claas , Frerichs Inéz , Dreyhaupt Jens , Waitz Markus , Sohrabi Keywan , Ehrhardt Harald
Published: July 2023

Background: Very low birth weight (VLBW) infants on noninvasive ventilation (NIV) experience frequent fluctuations in oxygen saturation (SpO2) that are associated with an increased risk for mortality and severe morbidities. Methods: In this randomized crossover trial, VLBW infants (n = 22) born 22+3 to 28+0 weeks on NIV with supplemental oxygen were allocated on two consecutive days in random order to synchronized nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (sNIPPV) and nasal high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (nHFOV) for 8 h. nHFOV and sNIPPV were set to equivalent mean airway pressure and transcutaneous pCO2. Primary outcome was the time spent within the SpO2 target (88–95%). Results: During sNIPPV, VLBW infants spent significantly more time within the SpO2 target (59.9%) than during nHFOV (54.6%). The proportion of time spent in hypoxemia (22.3% vs. 27.1%) and the mean fraction of supplemental oxygen (FiO2) (29.4% vs. 32.8%) were significantly reduced during sNIPPV, while the respiratory rate (50.1 vs. 42.6) was significantly higher. Mean SpO2, SpO2 above the target, number of prolonged (>1 min) and severe (SpO2 <80%) hypoxemic episodes, parameters of cerebral tissue oxygenation using NIRS, number of FiO2 adjustments, heart rate, number of bradycardias, abdominal distension and transcutaneous pCO2 did not differ between both interventions. Conclusions: In VLBW infants with frequent fluctuations in SpO2, sNIPPV is more efficient than nHFOV to retain the SpO2 target and to reduce FiO2 exposure. These results demand more detailed investigations into cumulative oxygen toxicities during different modes of NIV over the weaning period, particularly with regard to consequences for long-term outcomes.
A Clinical Learning Curve Study of Polydimethylsiloxane Urolastic for Stress Urinary Incontinence: Does Safety Improve when Expertise Grow?
Authors: Casteleijn Fenne , Latul Yani , van Eekelen Rik , Roovers Jan-Paul
Published: July 2023

Objectives: The aim of the study was to characterize the learning curve of bulk injection therapy polydimethylsiloxane Urolastic (PDMS-U) for stress urinary incontinence. Design: Secondary analysis from three clinical studies on efficacy and safety outcomes of PDMS-U was performed. Participants/Materials, Setting, Methods: PDMS-U-certified physicians who performed ≥4 procedures were included. The primary outcome was the number of PDMS-U procedures needed to achieve acceptable failure rates for “complications overall,” “urinary retention,” and “excision,” using the LC-CUSUM method. For the primary outcome, physicians who performed ≥20 procedures were used. For the secondary outcome, logistic and linear regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between number of procedures, complications (complications overall, urinary retention, pain, exposure, excision of PDSM-U), and duration of treatment. Results: In total, 203 PDMS-U procedures were performed by nine physicians. Five physicians were used for the primary outcome. For “complications overall,” “urinary retention,” and “excision,” two physicians reached a level of competence: one at procedure 20 and one at procedure 40. The secondary outcome showed no statistically significant association between procedure number and complications. There was a statistically significant increase in the duration of treatment with more physician experience (mean difference 0.83 min per 10 additional procedures, 95% CI: 0.16–1.48). Limitations: One limitation is that retrospectively collected data might have underreported the number of complications. Secondly, there was variation in the way the technique was applied between physicians. Conclusions: Physicians’ experience in the PDMS-U procedure did not influence safety outcomes. There was large inter-physician variability and most physicians did not reach acceptable failure rates. There was no relationship between PDMS-U complications and the number of performed procedures.
The Top 100 Cited Articles on Acupuncture in the Last 20 Years: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Ma Yuping , Li Bo , Cui Ying , Zhang Zixing , Jiang Shiyi , Yan Xiong , He Junpeng , Du Yuzheng
Published: July 2023

Background: Acupuncture has gained increasing international attention in recent decades. The act of incorporating acupuncture treatment into the routine treatment of COVID-19 in China drove us to review the 100 most influential articles of the last 20 years to learn about the current status and trends of acupuncture. Method: Articles related to acupuncture from January 1, 2001, to July 4, 2022, were searched in the Clarivate Analytics Web of Science Core Collection database. The top 100 most cited publications were selected, and information was extracted. Software such as VOSviewer, GraphPad Prism, Scimago Graphica, and CiteSpace were used to visualize and analyze the extracted data. Result: The 100 most cited articles were identified, with an average of 218 citations (range: 131–625). The majority of the top 100 articles were from the USA (n = 53). The institution that published the most highly cited papers was Harvard University (n = 16). The most influential team was Klaus Linde’s group. Pain was the top-ranked journal in terms of the number of publications. The largest clusters for co-occurrence keyword analysis focused on acupuncture and electroacupuncture analgesia and brain imaging responses to acupuncture stimulation via functional MRI. The two highest strength burst keywords were “randomized controlled trials” and “osteoarthritis,” with “randomized controlled trials” being a consistent burst keyword from 2011 to the present. Conclusion: This study provides insight into articles of historical significance in the field of acupuncture through bibliometric analysis. These data should provide clinicians and researchers with insight into future directions related to acupuncture.
Hypersensitivity Reaction and Rapid Drug Desensitization with Chemotherapeutics: A Tertiary Reference Center Experiences
Authors: Bulut İsmet , Yegin Katran Zeynep
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Chemotherapy drugs have been in our lives for a long time, and all agents have the potential to develop hypersensitivity. Rapid drug desensitization is an option when hypersensitivity develops. The aim of this study was to examine the characteristics, diagnostic processes, and treatment results of patients with chemotherapeutic agent hypersensitivity who applied to our tertiary reference center. Methods: Patients who applied to our tertiary allergy outpatient clinic between January 2016 and September 2022 due to chemotherapy-induced drug hypersensitivity were examined. Demographic data of the patients, cancer diagnoses, chemotherapy regimens, skin tests, premedication scheme, desensitization cycle were evaluated. We applied a 16-step desensitization in patients with index reaction anaphylaxis or positive skin tests. If the index reaction was not anaphylaxis or skin tests were negative, we applied a 12-step desensitization. If the prick test with chemotherapeutic drugs was negative especially with taxanes, premedication was administered. We used the montelukast, cetirizine, and methylprednisolone for premedication. Results: Fifty-one patients were evaluated; 35 (68.6%) were female. The most common malignancy was colorectal cancer in 17 (33.3%) patients. The most common agent responsible for hypersensitivity was oxaliplatin in 17 (33.3%) patients, followed by paclitaxel in 13 (25.4%). When the symptoms of immediate reaction to chemotherapeutic drugs were analyzed as described in the EAACI position paper, only skin and mucosal involvement was seen in 24 (46.8%) patients; only respiratory system involvement or back pain was seen in 3 (6.2%) patients; multisystem involvement meeting the criteria for anaphylaxis was seen in 24 (47%) patients. Skin test was positive in 17 (56.6%) of 30 patients who developed a reaction with platin. Prolonged anaphylaxis was developed in 1 patient, and desensitization was not performed again. Fifty of 51 patients were able to receive the target chemotherapy dose by desensitization. In total, a 172-step desensitization was applied to 51 patients. Conclusion: If completing the cycle is considered a treatment success, this was achieved in 98% (50/51) patients with rapid drug desensitization. This gives us the opportunity to use first-line chemotherapy agents.
Exhaled Breath Condensate and Respiratory Sequelae in Children Post-COVID-19
Authors: Fireman Klein Einat , Yaacoby-Bianu Karin , Orlin Ido , Zetser Anna , Purits Nona , Livnat Galit
Published: July 2023

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes an acute respiratory illness. A substantial proportion of adults experience persistent symptoms. There is a paucity of data on respiratory sequelae in children. Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) is a non-invasive tool used to assess airway inflammation. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate EBC parameters, respiratory, mental and physical ability among children post COVID-19 infection. Methods: Observational study of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection cases among children, aged 5–18 years, evaluated once, 1–6 months post positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing. All subjects performed spirometry, 6-min walk test (6MWT), EBC (pH, interleukin-6), and completed medical history questionnaires, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and physical activity scores. Severity of COVID-19 disease was classified according to WHO criteria. Results: Fifty-eight children were included and classified asymptomatic (n = 14), mild (n = 37), and moderate (n = 7) disease. The asymptomatic group included younger patients compared to the mild and moderate groups (8.9 ± 2.5y vs. 12.3 ± 3.6y and 14.6 ± 2.5y, respectively, p = 0.001), as well as lower DASS-21 total scores (3.4 ± 4 vs. 8.7 ± 9.4 and 8.7 ± 0.6 respectively, p = 0.056), with higher scores in proximity to positive PCR (p = 0.011). No differences were found between the 3 groups regarding EBC, 6MWT, spirometry, body mass index percentile, and activity scores. Conclusions: COVID-19 is an asymptomatic-mild disease in most young healthy children, with gradually diminishing emotional symptoms. Children without prolonged respiratory symptoms revealed no significant pulmonary sequelae as evaluated by EBC markers, spirometry, 6MWT, and activity scores. Larger studies are required to assess long-term pediatric consequences of post SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, to assess the need for pulmonology surveillance.
Metachronous Multiple Gastric Cancer Discovered as Endoscopic Curability C2 during Regular Follow-Up after Gastric Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection
Authors: Nomura Kosuke , Hoteya Shu , Kikuchi Daisuke , Kawai Yusuke , Ochiai Yorinari , Okamura Takayuki , Suzuki Yugo , Hayasaka Junnosuke , Mitsunaga Yutaka , Tanaka Masami , Fuchinoue Kazuhiro , Odagiri Hiroyuki , Yamashita Satoshi , Matsui Akira
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The objective of this study was to clarify characteristics of metachronous endoscopic curability C2 (eCura C2) cancer during post-endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) follow-up. Methods: Of 4,355 gastric lesions treated by ESD at our hospital during 2005–2021, 657 were metachronous. After excluding lesions found ≥2 years since the prior examination or in the gastric remnant, the remaining 515 were analyzed. Study 1: We compared 35 eCura C2 cancers and 480 eCura A-C1 cancers. Study 2: Endoscopic findings of the 35 lesions were examined to determine why they had been missed. Results: Mean tumor size was larger (34.0 mm vs. 12.1 mm, p < 0.01) and the proportions of mixed-type and poorly differentiated cancers were higher (highly:mixed:poorly, 34.3:57.1:8.6 vs. 94.2:5.0:0.8, p < 0.01) in the eCura C2 group. Study 2: At the prior examination, 4 lesions were noticed but considered benign, 2 lacked sufficient imaging, 19 were detectable on imaging but missed, and 10 were not detectable on imaging. Over half the lesions that were detectable but missed at the prior examination were in the lesser curvature, many being type IIa–IIb lesions with color similar to the background mucosa. All lesions not detectable on imaging at the prior examination were mixed-type or poorly differentiated type. Discussion: Metachronous cancer detected as eCura C2 cancers was significantly larger, and a significantly higher proportion was mixed-type or poorly differentiated cancers, compared with eCura A-C1 cancers. Possible reasons why these lesions were missed include rapid progression of mixed-type and poorly differentiated cancers, and poor recognition that lesions showing only slight color changes may be present at the lesser curvature.
Oogenesis in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Davis Gregory M. , Hipwell Hayleigh , Boag Peter R.
Published: July 2023

Background: The nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans has proven itself as a valuable model for investigating metazoan biology. C. elegans have a transparent body, an invariant cell lineage, and a high level of genetic conservation which makes it a desirable model organism. Although used to elucidate many aspects of somatic biology, a distinct advantage of C. elegans is its well annotated germline which allows all aspects of oogenesis to be observed in real time within a single animal. C. elegans hermaphrodites have two U-shaped gonad arms which produce their own sperm that is later stored to fertilise their own oocytes. These two germlines take up much of the internal space of each animal and germ cells are therefore the most abundant cell present within each animal. This feature and the genetic phenotypes observed for mutant worm gonads have allowed many novel findings that established our early understanding of germ cell dynamics. The mutant phenotypes also allowed key features of meiosis and germ cell maturation to be unveiled. Summary: This review will focus on the key aspects that make C. elegans an outstanding model for exploring each feature of oogenesis. This will include the fundamental steps associated with germline function and germ cell maturation and will be of use for those interested in exploring reproductive metazoan biology. Key Messages: Since germ cell biology is highly conserved in animals, much can be gained from study of a simple metazoan like C. elegans. Past findings have enhanced understanding on topics that would be more laborious or challenging in more complex animal models.
Spinal Cord Stimulation for Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Pain and Motor Outcomes
Authors: Sarica Can , Zemmar Ajmal , Yousefi Omid , Yang Andrew C. , Uzuner Ayse , Sheng Zhiyuan , Santyr Brendan , Samuel Nardin , Colditz Michael , Vetkas Artur , Germann Jürgen , Cheyuo Cletus , Sabahi Mohammadmahdi , Jani Raja Niranjan , Darmani Ghazaleh , Yamamoto Kazuaki , Aguirre-Padilla David H. , Neimat Joseph S , Kalia Suneil K. , Chen Robert , Fasano Alfonso A. , Lozano Andres M.
Published: July 2023

Background: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been investigated as a potential therapeutic option for managing refractory symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of SCS in PD. Method: A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed and Web of Science to identify SCS studies reporting Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale-III (UPDRS-III) or Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score changes in PD cohorts with at least 3 patients and a follow-up period of at least 1 month. Treatment effect was measured as the mean change in outcome scores and analyzed using an inverse variance random-effects model. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and funnel plots. Results: A total of 11 studies comprising 76 patients were included. Nine studies involving 72 patients reported an estimated decrease of 4.43 points (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.11; 6.75, p < 0.01) in UPDRS-III score, equivalent to a 14% reduction. The axial subscores in 48 patients decreased by 2.35 points (95% CI: 1.26; 3.45, p < 0.01, 20% reduction). The pooled effect size of five studies on back and leg pain VAS scores was calculated as 4.38 (95% CI: 2.67; 6.09, p < 0.001), equivalent to a 59% reduction. Conclusions: Our analysis suggests that SCS may provide significant motor and pain benefits for patients with PD, although the results should be interpreted with caution due to several potential limitations including study heterogeneity, open-label designs, small sample sizes, and the possibility of publication bias. Further research using larger sample sizes and placebo-/sham-controlled designs is needed to confirm effectiveness.
Neonatal Thrombocytopenia as a Presenting Finding in de novo Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency
Authors: Dulmovits Brian M. , Wild K. Taylor , Flibotte John , Lambert Michele P. , Kwiatkowski Janet , Thom Christopher S.
Published: July 2023

Thrombocytopenia is a common laboratory abnormality encountered in critically ill neonates. The broad differential for thrombocytopenia, and its association with potentially severe neonatal pathology, often presents a diagnostic dilemma prompting extensive evaluation. Hemolysis due to red cell enzymopathies is a rare cause of neonatal thrombocytopenia that is typically brief and self-limiting. Here, we present a case of thrombocytopenia, refractory to transfusion, associated with anemia and hyperbilirubinemia in a neonate with pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD) arising from compound heterozygous PKLR mutations. The nature of the thrombocytopenia in this patient created considerable diagnostic uncertainty, which was ultimately resolved by whole-exome sequencing. This case emphasizes that inherited red cell defects, such as PKD, are important to consider in cases of neonatal thrombocytopenia.
Identification of PDK4 as Hub Gene for Diabetic Nephropathy Using Co-Expression Network Analysis
Authors: Han Yuanyuan , Jin Liangzi , Wang Liangzhi , Wei Lan , Tu Chao
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is related to type 1 and type 2 diabetes. They are the leading cause of end-stage renal disease, but the underling specific pathogenesis of DN is not yet clear. Our study was conducted to explore how DN changed the transcriptome profiles in the kidney. Methods: The gene expression profile of microdissected glomeruli of 41 type 2 DN patients and 20 healthy controls were included. The sample dataset GSE96804 was obtained from the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed in R with the limma package and the important modules were found by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) clustering. The modules were then analyzed based on Gene Ontology (GO) gene set enrichment analysis, and the hub genes were found out. We next validated the hub gene, PDK4, in a cell model of DN. We also constructed the PDK4-related PPI network to investigate the correlation between PDK4 expression and other genes. Results: Heatmap and volcano map were drawn to illustrate the mRNA expression profile of 1,204 DEGs in both samples of DN patients and the control group. Using WGCNA, we selected the blue module in which genes showed the strongest correlation with the phenotype and the smallest p value. We also identified PDK4 as a hub gene. PDK4 expression was upregulated in human diabetic kidney tissue. Moreover, PDK4 was speculated to play a role in glomerular basement membrane development and kidney development according to the enrichment of functions and signaling pathways. Furthermore, PDK4 and two key genes GSTA2 and G6PC protein expression were verified highly expressed in the cell model of DN. Conclusion: During the pathogenesis of DN, many genes may change expression in a coordinated manner. The discovery of PDK4 as key gene using WGCNA is of great significance for the development of new treatment strategies to block the development of DN.
The Influence of the Learning Curve on Clinical Outcomes in Balloon-Expandable versus Self-Expandable Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Authors: Istrate Mihnea , Dregoesc Mihaela Ioana , Bolboaca Sorana D. , Solomonean Aurelia G. , Botis Catalin , Stef Adrian , Hagiu Radu , Moț Ștefan D.C. , Bindea Dan I. , Oprea Alexandru , Trifan Cătălin A. , Iancu Adrian C.
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Balloon-expandable (BE) and self-expandable (SE) prostheses are the main types of devices currently used in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Despite the different designs, clinical practice guidelines do not make any specific recommendation on the selection of one device over the other. Most operators are trained in using both BE and SE prostheses, but operator experience with each of the two designs might influence patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to compare the immediate and mid-term clinical outcomes during the learning curve in BE versus SE TAVI. Methods: The transfemoral TAVI procedures performed in a single center between July 2017 and March 2021 were grouped according to the type of implanted prosthesis. The procedures in each group were ordered according to the case sequence number. For each patient, a minimum follow-up time of 12 months was required for inclusion in the analysis. The outcomes of the BE TAVI procedures were compared with the outcomes of the SE TAVI procedures. Clinical endpoints were defined according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium 3 (VARC-3). Results: The median follow-up time was 28 months. Each device group included 128 patients. In the BE group, case sequence number predicted mid-term all-cause mortality at an optimal cutoff value ≤58 procedures (AUC 0.730; 95% CI: 0.644–0.805; p < 0.001), while in the SE group, the cutoff value was ≤85 procedures (AUC 0.625; 95% CI: 0.535–0.710; p = 0.04). A direct comparison of the AUC showed that case sequence number was equally adequate in predicting mid-term mortality, irrespective of prosthesis type (p = 0.11). A low case sequence number was associated with an increased rate of VARC-3 major cardiac and vascular complications (OR 0.98 95% CI: 0.96–0.99; p = 0.03) in the BE device group, and with an increased rate of post-TAVI aortic regurgitation ≥ grade II (OR 0.98; 95% CI: 0.97–0.99; p = 0.03) in the SE device group. Conclusions: In transfemoral TAVI, case sequence number influenced mid-term mortality irrespective of prosthesis type, but the learning curve was longer in the case of SE devices.
Observed Emotional Availability (EA) in the Early Months and Adolescence and Self-Reported EA at Any Age: A Narrative Review
Authors: Biringen Zeynep , Sandoval Karen , Flykt Marjo
Published: July 2023

Emotional availability (EA) is a relational construct that encompasses the ability of a dyad to share an emotionally connected, safe relationship. EA is operationalized by the multidimensional framework, which includes the observational EA Scales, the observational emotional attachment zones (EA-Z), as well as the EA Self-Report (EA-SR). The observational EA Scales measure the mutual interactive influences a child and parent may have on one another through observation of their affect and behavior and consist of 4 adult dimensions (sensitivity, structuring, nonintrusiveness, and nonhostility) and 2 child dimensions (responsiveness and involvement of the adult). The EA-Z refers to “emotional attachment styles” and is based on the summary of the observational EA Scales, assigned separately to adult and child (Emotionally Available, Complicated, Detached, Problematic/Disturbed/Traumatized or Traumatizing), with the potential that the emotional attachment perspective of the adult and child may not be the same. The EA-SR is about parental perceptions rather than observations, which should be taken into account in interpreting its findings. Collectively, these different measurements are referred to as the EA System. In this review, we focus on the EA-SR at any age, as well as EA observations, in the earliest months and adolescence.
Relationship between Plasma IP-10/CXCL10 Levels and the Initial Therapeutic Response in Patients Treated with Atezolizumab plus Bevacizumab for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Takada Hitomi , Yamashita Koji , Osawa Leona , Komiyama Yasuyuki , Nakakuki Natsuko , Muraoka Masaru , Suzuki Yuichiro , Sato Mitsuaki , Kobayashi Shoji , Yoshida Takashi , Takano Shinichi , Maekawa Shinya , Enomoto Nobuyuki
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab combination therapy (AB) was the first-line treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (u-HCC). IFN-γ-induced protein 10 (IP-10/CXCL10) is a chemokine to inhibit HCC proliferation by promoting the migration of cytotoxic T cells. We focused on the relationship between plasma IP-10/CXCL10 levels and the initial therapeutic response in patients receiving AB therapy. Methods: Forty-six patients receiving AB therapy were enrolled. Plasma IP-10/CXCL10 levels were measured at baseline, 3–7 days, 3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 8–12 weeks after the start of AB therapy. The initial therapeutic response was evaluated at 8–12 weeks. Results: The baseline IP-10/CXCL10 levels of partial response (PR) group was higher than that of stable disease (SD) or progressive disease (PD) group. Patients with the baseline IP-10/CXCL10 of 84 pg/mL or higher were likely to present PR than patients below (71 vs. 35%, p = 0.031), but prediction of PD using the baseline IP-10/CXCL10 levels was difficult. In contrast, IP-10/CXCL10 ratio of the PR group was lower than that of the SD/PD group at 3, 6, and 8–12 weeks. Patients with the 3, 6, and 8–12 weeks IP-10/CXCL10 ratio of 1.3, 0.4, and 0.4 or lower were likely to present PR than patients with ≥1.3, 0.4, and 0.4 (88, 35, 35 vs. 30, 3.8, 0%, p < 0.001, 0.011, 0.002). In other hand, the 3, 6, and 8–12 weeks IP-10/CXCL10 ratio for PD group was higher than that for non-PD group. Patients with the 3, 6, and 8–12 weeks IP-10/CXCL10 ratio of 1.3, 1.7, and 1.9 or higher were likely to present PD than patients below (85, 62, 57 vs. 32, 23, 14%, p = 0.002, 0.034, 0.009). Conclusion: High baseline IP-10/CXCL10 levels may be associated with better outcome, and high IP-10/CXCL10 ratio after 3–12 weeks may be associated with worse outcome in u-HCC patients receiving AB therapy.
Dupilumab for Chronic Prurigo: Case Series on Effectiveness, Safety, and Quality of Life
Authors: Richter Clara , Hafner Jürg , Schuermann Manuel , Tanadini Matteo , Trisconi Nisia , Schmid-Grendelmeier Peter , Kündig Thomas , Nägeli Mirjam , Brüggen Marie-Charlotte , Guillet Carole
Published: July 2023

Background: Chronic prurigo (CPG) is a pruritic skin disease, characterized by an itch-scratch cycle and scarring. It reduces patients’ quality of life (QoL). Dupilumab is a monoclonal human IgG antibody that inhibits signaling of the interleukin 4 (IL-4) and interleukin 13 (IL-13) pathways through blockade of the IL-4 receptor. Patients with CPG who receive dupilumab often report great improvement in itch and overall QoL. We therefore reviewed our experience in order to follow up on QoL, safety, and treatment response in patients with CPG who received dupilumab. Methods: We conducted a real-world retrospective single-center case series. Outcomes were assessed by phone interviews and photographs using validated questionnaires and scores. Demographic data were obtained from the hospital files. Follow-up was up to 2 years. We assessed QoL with the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and the Itchy quality of life questionnaire (ItchyQoL). Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) was used to assess itch. Prurigo lesions were documented with the Prurigo activity and severity score (PAS). Results: Ten patients were included in this study. Results were reported up to 2 years after treatment with dupilumab. The response variables for DLQI, ItchyQoL, NRS, and PAS analyses showed a statistically significant decrease over time (DLQI: p ≤ 0.0001 [−0.84; −1.27], ItchyQoL: p ≤ 0.0001 [−9.89; −18.69], NRS maximum and average: p ≤ 0.0001 [−0.52; −0.86] and p ≤ 0.0001 [−0.55; −0.94], and PAS number of lesions: p = 0.0005 [−1.70; −5.28]). The percent decrease after 1 year of treatment (this estimate is based on model estimates) ranges from −42% to −82%. Four (40%) patients reported mild side effects. No serious side effects were reported. Conclusion: Dupilumab treatment of CGP for up to 2 years is associated with improved QoL and less itching.
Patient Perspectives on Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Infertility: A Survey Study
Authors: Masson Rahul , Shih Terri , Park Sarah , De Devea R. , Gierbolini Athena , Alavi Afsaneh , Garg Amit , Micheletti Robert G. , Shi Vivian Y. , Hsiao Jennifer L.
Published: July 2023

Background: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an inflammatory skin condition which predominantly affects women of childbearing age in the USA. There is a lack of research on the association between HS and fertility. Objectives: The aim of this study was to understand the perspectives of females with HS regarding the impact of their disease on reproductive health, the impact of fertility treatments on HS, and the impact of HS treatments on fertility. Methods: An anonymous, online survey was disseminated through HS support groups from June to July 2022. Respondents aged 18–50 who were assigned female sex at birth were eligible for participation. Comparative statistics were performed using t tests/χ2 tests to assess associations between respondents’ demographics and survey responses. Results: Among the 312 respondents (80.8% White, mean age 35.7 ± 7.4 [range 18–50]), two-thirds of respondents (66.6%, 207/311) had been pregnant before and 79.5% (248/312) had ever tried to conceive. 41.5% (103/248) had unsuccessfully tried to conceive for 12 months or more. Of the 59 respondents who had never attempted to conceive, 39% reported that HS had impacted this decision. Amongst respondents who experienced fertility challenges but did not pursue fertility treatments, top barriers to fertility treatments include concerns about financial support/insurance coverage (47.5%, 29/61) and fertility treatments worsening HS (21.3%, 13/61). Most respondents who used fertility treatments reported either no change (73.7%, 28/38 or 77.8%, 14/18) or improvement (15.8%, 6/38 or 11.1%, 2/18) in their HS symptoms with oral or injectable medications. Respondents were most concerned about the effects of oral antibiotics (44.9%, 140/312), followed by hormonal medications (38.8%, 121/312) and biologics (35.9%, 112/312) on fertility. Conclusion: Females with HS reported high rates of infertility compared to the general population. The majority reported no change in HS symptoms with fertility treatments, and clinicians can use this finding to help counsel patients during family planning discussions. Further research in the field of HS and fertility is needed.
8. Marie Olympe Gouze [Olympe de Gouges]
Authors: Isbell John Claiborne
Published: July 2023

Destins de femmes is the first comprehensive overview of French women writers during the turbulent period of 1750-1850. John Isbell provides an essential collection that illuminates the impact women writers had on French literature and politics during a time marked by three revolutions, the influx of Romantic art, and rapid technological change.

Each of the book’s thirty chapters introduces a prominent work by a different female author writing in French during the period, from Germaine de Staël to George Sand, from the admired salon libertine Marie du Deffand to Flora Tristan, tireless campaigner for socialism and women’s rights. Isbell draws from multi-genre writers working in prose, poetry and correspondence and addresses the breadth of women’s contribution to the literature of the age. Isbell also details the important events which shaped the writers’ lives and contextualises their work amidst the liberties both given and taken away from women during the period.

This anthology fills a significant gap in the secondary literature on this transformative century, which often overlooks women who were working and active. It invites a further gendered investigation of the impact of revolution and Romanticism on the content and nature of French women’s writing, and will therefore be appropriate for both general readers, students, and academics analysing history and literature through a feminist lens.
24. Flore Célestine Thérèse Henriette Tristán y Moscoso [Flora Tristan]
Authors: Isbell John Claiborne
Published: July 2023

Destins de femmes is the first comprehensive overview of French women writers during the turbulent period of 1750-1850. John Isbell provides an essential collection that illuminates the impact women writers had on French literature and politics during a time marked by three revolutions, the influx of Romantic art, and rapid technological change.

Each of the book’s thirty chapters introduces a prominent work by a different female author writing in French during the period, from Germaine de Staël to George Sand, from the admired salon libertine Marie du Deffand to Flora Tristan, tireless campaigner for socialism and women’s rights. Isbell draws from multi-genre writers working in prose, poetry and correspondence and addresses the breadth of women’s contribution to the literature of the age. Isbell also details the important events which shaped the writers’ lives and contextualises their work amidst the liberties both given and taken away from women during the period.

This anthology fills a significant gap in the secondary literature on this transformative century, which often overlooks women who were working and active. It invites a further gendered investigation of the impact of revolution and Romanticism on the content and nature of French women’s writing, and will therefore be appropriate for both general readers, students, and academics analysing history and literature through a feminist lens.
25. Delphine Gay de Girardin [Vicomte de Launay]
Authors: Isbell John Claiborne
Published: July 2023

Destins de femmes is the first comprehensive overview of French women writers during the turbulent period of 1750-1850. John Isbell provides an essential collection that illuminates the impact women writers had on French literature and politics during a time marked by three revolutions, the influx of Romantic art, and rapid technological change.

Each of the book’s thirty chapters introduces a prominent work by a different female author writing in French during the period, from Germaine de Staël to George Sand, from the admired salon libertine Marie du Deffand to Flora Tristan, tireless campaigner for socialism and women’s rights. Isbell draws from multi-genre writers working in prose, poetry and correspondence and addresses the breadth of women’s contribution to the literature of the age. Isbell also details the important events which shaped the writers’ lives and contextualises their work amidst the liberties both given and taken away from women during the period.

This anthology fills a significant gap in the secondary literature on this transformative century, which often overlooks women who were working and active. It invites a further gendered investigation of the impact of revolution and Romanticism on the content and nature of French women’s writing, and will therefore be appropriate for both general readers, students, and academics analysing history and literature through a feminist lens.
26. Amantine Lucile Aurore Dupin, Baronne Dudevant[George Sand]
Authors: Isbell John Claiborne
Published: July 2023

Destins de femmes is the first comprehensive overview of French women writers during the turbulent period of 1750-1850. John Isbell provides an essential collection that illuminates the impact women writers had on French literature and politics during a time marked by three revolutions, the influx of Romantic art, and rapid technological change.

Each of the book’s thirty chapters introduces a prominent work by a different female author writing in French during the period, from Germaine de Staël to George Sand, from the admired salon libertine Marie du Deffand to Flora Tristan, tireless campaigner for socialism and women’s rights. Isbell draws from multi-genre writers working in prose, poetry and correspondence and addresses the breadth of women’s contribution to the literature of the age. Isbell also details the important events which shaped the writers’ lives and contextualises their work amidst the liberties both given and taken away from women during the period.

This anthology fills a significant gap in the secondary literature on this transformative century, which often overlooks women who were working and active. It invites a further gendered investigation of the impact of revolution and Romanticism on the content and nature of French women’s writing, and will therefore be appropriate for both general readers, students, and academics analysing history and literature through a feminist lens.
30. Louise Colet
Authors: Isbell John Claiborne
Published: July 2023

Destins de femmes is the first comprehensive overview of French women writers during the turbulent period of 1750-1850. John Isbell provides an essential collection that illuminates the impact women writers had on French literature and politics during a time marked by three revolutions, the influx of Romantic art, and rapid technological change.

Each of the book’s thirty chapters introduces a prominent work by a different female author writing in French during the period, from Germaine de Staël to George Sand, from the admired salon libertine Marie du Deffand to Flora Tristan, tireless campaigner for socialism and women’s rights. Isbell draws from multi-genre writers working in prose, poetry and correspondence and addresses the breadth of women’s contribution to the literature of the age. Isbell also details the important events which shaped the writers’ lives and contextualises their work amidst the liberties both given and taken away from women during the period.

This anthology fills a significant gap in the secondary literature on this transformative century, which often overlooks women who were working and active. It invites a further gendered investigation of the impact of revolution and Romanticism on the content and nature of French women’s writing, and will therefore be appropriate for both general readers, students, and academics analysing history and literature through a feminist lens.
A multiplicative effect of Education and Wealth associated with HIV-related knowledge and attitudes among Ghanaian women
Authors: Nutakor Jonathan Aseye , Zhou Lulin , Larnyo Ebenezer , Addai-Dansoh Stephen , Cui Yupeng , Kissi Jonathan , Danso Nana Ama Asi , Gavu Alexander Kwame
Published: July 2023

Background

Knowledge and attitudes regarding HIV play a crucial role in prevention and control efforts. Understanding the factors influencing HIV-related knowledge and attitudes is essential for formulating effective interventions and policies. This study aims to investigate the possibility of an interaction between education and wealth in influencing HIV-related knowledge and attitudes among women in Ghana.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from the Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), a nationally representative sample, were analyzed. Statistical summaries were computed using place of residence, marital status, education level, wealth index quintile, use of insurance, functional difficulties, and exposure to modern media. Furthermore, a three-model Logistic regression analysis was conducted; Model 1 with main effects only, Model 2 with the interaction between education and wealth, and Model 3 with additional covariates. To account for the complexity of the survey data, the svyset command was executed in STATA.

Results

Although most interaction terms between wealth index quintiles and education levels did not show statistical significance, a few exceptions were observed. Notably, women with primary education in the second, middle, and fourth wealth quintiles, along with those with secondary education in the second wealth quintile, exhibited a negative significant association with HIV-related attitude level. However, no significant associations were found between other factors, including age, place of residence, marital status, and health insurance, and HIV-related attitude. The study also found significant associations between socioeconomic variables and HIV-related knowledge. There was a significant positive association between higher levels of education and HIV-related knowledge level. Women in wealthier quintiles had a significant positive association with HIV-related knowledge level. Factors such as place of residence and media exposure, including radio and television were also observed to be associated with HIV-related knowledge level.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of socioeconomic status and media exposure in shaping HIV-related knowledge and attitudes among women in Ghana. Policy interventions should focus on reducing socioeconomic disparities, ensuring equitable access to education and healthcare services, and utilizing media platforms for effective HIV information dissemination.
Reversing food preference through multisensory exposure
Authors: Chatterjee Avishek , Mazumder Satyaki , Das Koel
Published: July 2023

Experiencing food craving is nearly ubiquitous and has several negative pathological impacts prompting an increase in recent craving-related research. Food cue-reactivity tasks are often used to study craving, but most paradigms ignore the individual food preferences of participants, which could confound the findings. We explored the neuropsychological correlates of food craving preference using psychophysical tasks on human participants considering their individual food preferences in a multisensory food exposure set-up. Participants were grouped into Liked Food Exposure (LFE), Disliked Food Exposure (DFE), and Neutral Control (NEC) based on their preference for sweet and savory items. Participants reported their momentary craving for the displayed food stimuli through the desire scale and bidding scale (willingness to pay) pre and post multisensory exposure. Participants were exposed to food items they either liked or disliked. Our results asserted the effect of the multisensory food exposure showing a statistically significant increase in food craving for DFE participants postexposure to disliked food items. Using computational models and statistical methods, we also show that the desire for food does not necessarily translate to a willingness to pay every time, and instantaneous subjective valuation of food craving is an important parameter for subsequent action. Our results further demonstrate the role of parietal N200 and centro-parietal P300 in reversing food preference and possibly point to the decrease of inhibitory control in up-regulating craving for disliked food.
Introdução à história do direito privado alemão
Authors: Zanini Leonardo Estevam de Assis
Published: July 2023

Através do presente artigo realiza-se um estudo panorâmico da evolução histórica do direito privado alemão, com destaque à sua relevância para o direito brasileiro. Para tanto, utiliza-se de metodologia descritiva e dedutiva, baseada fundamentalmente na investigação bibliográfica e legislativa. O trabalho parte da recepção do direito romano pelos estados germânicos, passando pelo período influenciado pelo Iluminismo, pelo surgimento da Escola Histórica e da Ciência das Pandectas, bem como pela Jurisprudência dos Interesses. O artigo analisa o movimento de codificação que culminou com a criação do BGB e os desenvolvimentos do direito privado ocorridos durante a República de Weimar, na ditadura nacional-socialista, bem como após a Segunda Guerra até os dias atuais. Examina-se brevemente a situação do direito privado na Alemanha Ocidental, na Alemanha Oriental e após a reunificação do país. Por fim, a pesquisa aborda a europeização do direito privado.
Exploration of dielectric spectra of variously synthesized epoxy/ZnO nanocomposites
Authors: Velani Mihir N. , Patel Ritesh R.
Published: July 2023

Polymeric epoxy-based nanocomposites have rapidly developed in high energy density and power industry components. The composite insulation undergoes harsh extreme temperature conditions and a high electric field with varying frequencies. This paper dissects the components of complex permittivity in epoxy/ZnO nano and micro composites that were synthesized using different methods, utilizing dielectric spectroscopy as per ASTM D150. The performance of the composites was studied by analyzing the spectra over a frequency range spanning from 1 mHz to 1 kHz. We presume interfacial polarization arises in the composites due to particle clustering. Furthermore, we evaluated the effect of varying filler concentration at 25, 50, 70, and 90 °C. The real permittivity positions the α-steps at 70 and 90 °C. The real and imaginary permittivities remain largely unpretentious by the synthesis method over the entire frequency range.
ESTIMATION OF MAXIMUM WAVE CHARACTERISTICS IN THE VAN PHONG BAY AREA, KHANH HOA PROVINCE
Authors: Mau Le Dinh
Published: July 2023

Estimation of maximum wave characteristics in a particular nearshore area have an important role of economic, tourism developments and environmental protection such as design of marine structures, transportation, fisheries and mari-culture, recreation, etc., for sustainable exploitation of the coastal zone.  This paper presents the distribution of calculated wave characteristics in the Van Phong bay area for typical maximum wind fields, which were taken from Nha Trang Meteorological Station during 1986 to 2000.  Typical Tubong wind fields were taken from the investigation report of the Mete-Hydrological Service in Nha Trang. Dolphin and SWAN models estimated wave characteristics in the offshore and nearshore regions, respectively. Study results show that the Van Phong bay area was strongest affected by wave action  in case of maximum incoming winds in the sector from NW to E directions, and slightly affected by the  remaining incoming wind directions. Maximum wind field (V = 28 m/s, Direction = NE) genemted significant wave height of greater than 2 m which covered the most parts of Van Phong bay area, the  coastline from Hon Khoi Cape to Ban Thang Cape was subjected to wave action with significant wave height of 3 - 6 m. Typical Tubong windfield (V = 20 m/s. Direction = NW) genemted significant wave height of 0.5 - 1.5 m Ben Goi and 1.5 - 2.5 m in Van Phong bay areas.
İç Hastalıkları Yoğun Bakım Ünitesinde Gelişen Enfeksiyonlar ve Mortalitenin Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: ULKER Gulsen , YILDIZ Pinar , BİLGİN Muzaffer , ŞAHİN TEKİN Melisa , ANDIÇ Neslihan
Published: July 2023

Bu çalışmada İç Hastalıkları Yoğun Bakım Ünitesine çeşitli tanılarla yatırılmış hastalarda gelişen enfeksiyonları, etki eden faktörleri ve mortaliteyle ilişkisini değerlendirmeyi amaçladık. 605 hastanın 232’sinin ex olduğu, 373’ünün ise sağ kaldığı saptandı, genel mortalite oranı %38, 3 idi. Kan kültüründe üreme olan 126 (%20.8) hastanın 80(%63.4)’inin ex olduğu görüldü. Enfeksiyon gelişme riskini, yoğun bakımda kalış süresi, entübasyon süresi, vazopressör tedavi uygulanması, invaziv ve non-invaziv destek ihtiyacının etkilediği belirlendi (sırasıyla p = 0.02, p = 0.05, p = 0.03, p = 0.03). Yoğun bakım enfeksiyonları, etki eden faktörler ve önleyici tedbirlerin belirlenmesi morbidite, mortalitenin azaltılması için çok önemlidir. Hastaların yoğun bakım ihtiyacının ortadan kalktığı en erken sürede yoğun bakımdan çıkarılması ve gereksiz invaziv prosedürlerden kaçınılması daha az sekelle iyileşmelerini sağlayabilecektir.