bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer-Related Decision-Making Among Adolescents, Young Adults, Caregivers, and Oncology Providers
Authors: Darabos Katie , Berger Allison J. , Barakat Lamia P. , Schwartz Lisa A.
Published: August 2021

Decision-making among adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYA) is often complex, ongoing, and multifaceted, involving caregiver and oncology provider perspectives. Engagement in decision-making against the backdrop of normative developmental processes of acquiring autonomy and gaining independence contributes to the complexity of decision-making. Semi-structured qualitative interviews from 11 AYA and caregiver dyads and eight oncology providers examined decision-making processes with specific attention to the role of shared decision-making, cognitive and emotional processes, and coping with the decision-making experience. Five decision-making patterns were identified, with collaborative decision-making and AYA-driven decisions most commonly described. Utilizing hypothesis coding, AYA and caregivers explained how cognitive (i.e., pros/cons) and emotional (i.e., shock and fear of missing out) processes influenced cancer-related decisions. Coping strategies provided clarity and respite when engaged in decision-making. Our findings illuminate important implications for how to best support decision-making among AYA and caregivers, including the role oncology providers can play during decision-making.
Symptomatic Thyroglossal Duct Cyst Presenting With Synchronous and Localized Tongue Base Extranodal Mantle Cell Lymphoma. A Unique Case Report Demonstrating Lymphoma Colonization of Cyst Wall, Potentially Relating to a Persistent Embryological Foramen Cecum Remnant
Authors: Lau Edward Y.M. , Reddy Venkat , Rock Benjamin , Furtado Michelle , Bracey Tim
Published: August 2021

A 77-year-old male presented with a progressively enlarging midline neck mass. On further investigation he was found to have synchronous thyroglossal duct cyst and extranodal mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) localized to the base of tongue. Both pathologies were managed simultaneously with a surgical approach and the patient remained in clinical remission at the time of publication without indication for systemic oncological treatment. Histology revealed primary extranodal nonblastoid MCL forming a base of tongue mass, with colonization of the thyroglossal duct cyst. Lymphoma was also found in the epithelium of a crypt-like tract traversing one of the tongue base tumor sections. This tract was anatomically and histologically consistent with documented descriptions of the foramen cecum. This case report illustrates a previously undescribed temporal, clinical, and histological association between a base of tongue MCL and symptomatic thyroglossal duct cyst. We provide evidence for a potential causal relationship for the presentation of the thyroglossal duct cyst as a result of oropharyngeal MCL, in the absence of clinical and histological evidence of disseminated disease, directly infiltrating from its tongue base origin to the infrahyoid neck region, potentially via an embryologic foramen cecum remnant. We also highlight the crucial role of the histopathologist in multidisciplinary clinicopathological discussion in demonstrating how fundamental embryological and microanatomical relationships can unite apparently separate diseases.
Parricide in Thailand: Its Causes, Characteristics, and Factors
Authors: Manujantarat Thitipun , Kanyajit Sunee , Rujipark Veenunkarn , Unmarerng Noppawan , Sokantat Natthapon
Published: August 2021

To date, studies as to parricide have mostly pertained to Western contexts. This study is the first exploratory research to consider parricide in Thailand alongside its patterns, causes and factors within this specific socio-cultural context. In-depth interviews were employed with 21 male perpetrators of parricide serving sentences in three prisons in Thailand. These interviews found that the victims had abused and committed domestic violence against the perpetrator prior to the parricide. Furthermore, the act of parricide in each case derived from the anger of, and unplanned use of weapons (i.e., sticks, kitchen tools and farming tools) by, a sole perpetrator.
Where Are the Self-Correcting Mechanisms in Science?
Authors: Vazire Simine , Holcombe Alex O.
Published: August 2021

It is often said that science is self-correcting, but the replication crisis suggests that self-correction mechanisms have fallen short. How can we know whether a particular scientific field has effective self-correction mechanisms, that is, whether its findings are credible? The usual processes that supposedly provide mechanisms for scientific self-correction, such as journal-based peer review and institutional committees, have been inadequate. We describe more verifiable indicators of a field’s commitment to self-correction. These fall under the broad headings of 1) transparency, which is already the subject of many reform efforts and 2) critical appraisal, which has received less attention and which we focus on here. Only by obtaining Observable Self-Correction Indicators (OSCIs) can we begin to evaluate the claim that “science is self-correcting.” We expect that the veracity of this claim varies across fields and subfields, and suggest that some fields, such as psychology and biomedicine, fall far short of an appropriate level of transparency and, especially, critical appraisal. Fields without robust, verifiable mechanisms for transparency and critical appraisal cannot reasonably be said to be self-correcting, and thus do not warrant the credibility often imputed to science as a whole.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Postnatal Mothers on Ophthalmia Neonatorum in the Central Region, Ghana
Authors: Boadi-Kusi Samuel Bert , Holdbrook Selina , Kyei Samuel , Abu Emmanuel Kwasi
Published: August 2021

Health education is key in the prevention of Ophthalmia Neonatorum (ON). However, health education in relation to eye care in Ghana is very low. To determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) of mothers on Ophthalmia Neonatorum (eye infection in newborns), a descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, using a standardised interviewer-administered questionnaire to collect data. Using a consecutive sampling technique, we enrolled 407 mothers to participate in the study. The overall KAPs of the study participants were assessed using the sum score of each outcome based on Bloom’s cut-off point. Completed data was then analysed using descriptive statistics with SPSS version 22.0 at the level of P < .05. Out of the 407 participants, 321 (78.9%) had not heard about Ophthalmia Neonatorum with nearly 93% having low levels of knowledge on the neonatal infection. We found a significant association between formal education ( P = .001), skilled occupation ( P = .008) and a high level of knowledge on Ophthalmia Neonatorum. The study highlights the need to find improved and alternative methods of educating mothers on Ophthalmia Neonatorum in the bid to reduce blindness attributed to the condition.
Treatment and help services for gambling during COVID-19: Experiences of gamblers and their concerned significant others
Authors: Marionneau Virve , Järvinen-Tassopoulos Johanna
Published: August 2021

Aims:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many treatment or help services for gambling were closed or moved online. At the same time, closures of gambling opportunities impacted gambling availability and practices. This study investigates gamblers’ and their concerned significant others’ (CSOs) experiences and views on treatment and help services during this exceptional time and perceptions on how to develop services further after the pandemic.

Design:

Three online questionnaires to elicit gambler and CSO experiences were conducted during the spring 2020 in Finland. In total, 847 respondents answered and shared experiences on how the situation had impacted their gambling behaviour and service needs, how service closures or the moving of services online had impacted them, and how they thought the prevention and treatment of gambling harms should be organised during and after COVID-19.

Results:

Changed gambling practices reduced overall service needs. Service closures had negative impacts, but online services were considered positively, as these provided a low-threshold option. Respondents also shared insights into how the service provision for gamblers should further be developed during and after COVID-19.
An analytical approach to the nonlinear buckling behavior of axially compressed auxetic-core cylindrical shells with carbon nanotube-reinforced coatings
Authors: Ly Le Ngoc , Duc Vu Minh , Trung Nguyen-Thoi , Phuong Nguyen Thi , Dong Dang Thuy , Minh Tran Quang , Tien Nguyen Van , Hung Vu Tho
Published: August 2021

Auxetic materials are usually designed as cores for structures subject to high impulse loads. Furthermore, the lightweight and high load capacity of the auxetic core construction is also an important advantage even for structures subjected to static loads. The combination of auxetic core and face sheets made by the advanced composite materials is a solution to dramatically increase the load-carrying capacity of the structure. In this paper, a new design of auxetic-core cylindrical shells with carbon nanotube-reinforced coatings is presented. Additionally, the nonlinear buckling behaviors of auxetic-core cylindrical shells with carbon nanotube-reinforced coatings under axially compressive loads are investigated. Three distributed types of functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced coatings and the honeycomb lattice form of the auxetic core are investigated. The homogenization model for auxetic lattice structures is considered to constitute the formulations of stiffnesses of the core layer. The nonlinear basic formulations are formulated by using the geometrically nonlinear Donnell shell theory considering Pasternak’s foundation. The Galerkin procedure can be applied three times for three states of buckling behaviors, and the expressions of the compressive load-maximal deflection and compressive load-average end shortening postbuckling curves are achieved. The numerically obtained investigations present the significant effects of auxetic core, volume fraction, direction arrangement and distributed law of carbon nanotube, foundation stiffnesses, geometrical parameters of auxetic core and shell on the critical buckling load and postbuckling behavior of structures.
Relationships between prolonged physical and social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced physical activity and disability in activities of daily living among people with advanced respiratory disease
Authors: Fettes Lucy , Bayly Joanne , de Bruin Leonora Michelle , Patel Malini , Ashford Stephen , Higginson Irene J , Maddocks Matthew
Published: August 2021

In people with advanced respiratory disease, we examined (i) the impact of COVID-19–related physical and social isolation on physical activity and (ii) relationships between time spent in isolation and disability in activities of daily living. Cross-sectional analysis was conducted in adults with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, chronic obstructive lung disease or interstitial lung disease. Measures included change in physical activity since physically and socially isolating (Likert scale) and disability (Barthel Index and Lawton–Brody IADL scale) or difficulty (World Health Organisation Disability Assessment Schedule-2.0) in daily activities. Multiple logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with disability in daily activities. 194/201 participants were isolating for a median [IQR] 5 [3–8]-month period, often leading to lower levels of physical activity at home ( n = 94, 47%), and outside home ( n = 129, 65%). 104 (52%) and 142 (71%) were not fully independent in basic and instrumental activities of daily living, respectively. 96% reported some degree of difficulty in undertaking daily activities. Prolonged physical and social isolation related to increased disability in basic (r = −0.28, p < 0.001) and instrumental (r = −0.24, p < 0.001) activities of daily living, and greater difficulty in daily activities (r = 0.22, p = 0.002). Each month spent in physical or social isolation was independently related to disability in basic activities of daily living (odds ratio [OR], 1.17 [95% CI: 1.03–1.33], p = 0.013). These findings suggest disability in daily activities is associated with prolonged physical or social isolation, which may present as difficulty in people who are fully independent. Post-isolation recovery and rehabilitation needs should be considered for all people deemed extremely clinically vulnerable.
Intravascular Lithotripsy for Treatment of Calcified Infrapopliteal Lesions: Results from the Disrupt PAD III Observational Study
Authors: Adams George , Soukas Peter A. , Mehrle Anderson , Bertolet Barry , Armstrong Ehrin J.
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the Shockwave S4 intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) catheter in an “all-comers” cohort of patients with calcified infrapopliteal lesions.

Materials and Methods:

The Disrupt PAD III Observational Study (NCT02923193) is a prospective, nonrandomized, multicenter single-arm study designed to assess the “real-world” acute safety and effectiveness of the Shockwave Peripheral IVL System for the treatment of de novo calcified, stenotic peripheral arteries. Patients were eligible for enrollment if they had claudication or critical limb ischemia (CLI) and at least moderate calcification as assessed by angiography. This subanalysis includes consecutive patients enrolled with angiographic core lab-assessed treatment of infrapopliteal arteries using the Shockwave S4 IVL catheter.

Results

From July 2018 to August 2020, 101 patients with 114 calcified infrapopliteal arteries treated with the S4 IVL catheter were enrolled at 15 sites in 3 countries. CLI was present in 69.3% of patients. The anterior tibial and tiboperoneal trunk were the most commonly treated vessels with an overall mean reference vessel diameter (RVD) of 3.1±0.8 mm, minimum lumen diameter (MLD) of 0.5±0.6 mm, and a corresponding diameter stenosis of 83.4%±15.8% by core lab assessment. Mean lesion length was 64.7±54.7 mm with moderate to severe calcification in 69.3% of lesions by the Peripheral Academic Research Consortium (PARC) criteria. Adjunctive calcium-modifying technology, defined as scoring or cutting balloon and/or atherectomy, was used in 22.7% of procedures. The average acute gain at the end of the procedure was 2.0±0.7 mm with a residual stenosis <50% achieved in 99.0% of lesions and a mean residual stenosis of 23.3±12.5%. There were no flow-limiting dissection, embolization, slow flow/no-reflow, or abrupt closure events at the end of the procedure.

Conclusion

This subanalysis of the PAD III Observational Study represents the largest report to-date of IVL treatment of heavily calcified below-the-knee (BTK) lesions in a “real-world” patient cohort. The use of S4 IVL demonstrated consistent acute safety and effectiveness outcomes consistent with prior IVL peripheral studies. These consistent outcomes were achieved with the initial use of the S4 IVL catheter for treatment of complex BTK lesions.
Are You Ready for Some Football? Estimating the Effect of American Football Season on Labor Supply in the United States
Authors: Petach Luke , Rumbaugh Dustin
Published: August 2021

American football season reduces the Monday labor hours of employed men by two-thirds of an hour. A similar effect is found for Friday labor hours. We term these effects the “hangover effect” and “happy hour effect.” Consistent with a wide class of labor market models, the labor supply effect varies over the business cycle, increasing in expansions. The hangover effect implies an intertemporal elasticity of labor supply on the order of 0.014. Evaluated at the median hourly wage, our estimates imply an annual economic cost of foregone earnings associated with football season in the neighborhood of $5.06 billion.
Nationality Effects on the Allocation of Playing Time in the Chinese Basketball Association: Xenophilia or Xenophobia?
Authors: Berri David J. , Burdekin Richard C. K. , Deutscher Christian
Published: August 2021

This paper uses 2011–2019 data from the Chinese Basketball Association to assess the determinants of playing time with a focus on the effects of players’ national origin. Playing time is explained by an array of standard performance variables as well as each player's characteristics (such as age, height, and weight). Controlling for these factors, we test for whether there is any evidence of preferential treatment for foreign players over Chinese players. Our findings, using both a fixed effects model and the Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition approach, offer consistent support for discrimination in favor of U.S. players and other foreign nationals. Intriguingly, Chinese coaches discriminate against Chinese players even more than non-Chinese coaches. We argue that foreign players draw attendance and hence receive more playing time than is justified by their performance alone.
Introduction to the Special Issue—Deleuze and Intimacy: Of Ontologies, Politics, and the Untamed
Authors: Murray Fiona , Wyatt Jonathan
Published: August 2021

This brief article traces the intersecting lines and stories of this special issue on Deleuze and intimacy. It offers a take how it found its way onto these pages after nearly 2 years and through two conference symposia, and outlines how the contributions—variously and differently—make a case for intimacy, through Deleuze, as an approach to, a subject of, and/or a necessary and vital affective force in, research—and beyond.
A Novel Nomogram for Predicting Cancer-Specific Survival in Patients With Spinal Chordoma: A Population-Based Analysis
Authors: Huang Zhangheng , Fan Zhiyi , Zhao Chengliang , Sun He
Published: August 2021

Background:

Chordoma is a rare malignant bone tumor, and the survival prediction for patients with chordoma is difficult. The objective of this study was to construct and validate a nomogram for predicting cancer-specific survival (CSS) in patients with spinal chordoma.

Methods:

A total of 316 patients with spinal chordoma were identified from the SEER database between 1998 and 2015. The independent prognostic factors for patients with spinal chordoma were determined by univariate and multivariate Cox analyses. The prognostic nomogram was established for patients with spinal chordoma based on independent prognostic factors. Furthermore, we performed internal and external validations for this nomogram.

Results:

Primary site, disease stage, histological type, surgery, and age were identified as independent prognostic factors for patients with spinal chordoma. A nomogram for predicting CSS in patients with spinal chordoma was constructed based on the above 5 variables. In the training cohort, the area under the curve for predicting 1-, 3-, and 5-year CSS were 0.821, 0.856, and 0.920, respectively. The corresponding area under the curve in the validation cohort were 0.728, 0.804, and 0.839, respectively. The calibration curves of the nomogram showed a high degree of agreement between the predicted and the actual results, and the decision curve analysis further demonstrated the satisfactory clinical utility of the nomogram.

Conclusions:

The prognostic nomogram provides a considerably more accurate prediction of prognosis for patients with spinal chordoma. Clinicians can use it to categorize patients into different risk groups and make personalized treatment methods.
Microbiological Pattern, Antimicrobial Resistance and Prevalence of MDR/XDR Organisms in Patients With Diabetic Foot Infection in an Indian Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Dawaiwala Idris , Awaghade Snehal , Kolhatkar Pranjali , Pawar Sunita , Barsode Supriya
Published: August 2021

Foot infections are the most prevalent problem in persons with diabetes. The burden of multidrug resistant (MDR) microorganisms in diabetic foot infections (DFIs) is rising day by day. Given that, the present study aims to determine the variety of microorganisms isolated from the diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), and their antibiotic sensitivity pattern. This prospective observational study was conducted for 1 year at Bharati Hospital and Research Centre, Pune, India. Clinically infected patients with DFU admitted to the surgery ward were included in this study. The specimen for microbiological studies is obtained from the wound swabs, soft tissue, and bone tissue as a part of routine clinical care. All demographic, clinical data, microbial culture results were collected, and evaluated for each case. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing to different agents was carried out using the VITEK-2® machine. A total of 110 microorganisms were isolated from 76 specimens, with an average of 1.4 organisms per lesion. Staphylococcus aureus (n = 27, 24.5%) and Escherichia coli (n = 17, 15.4%) were the most prevalent Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms isolated, respectively. MDR organisms constituted up to 52 (47.2%), while 6 (5.4%) of the samples were extensively drug resistant (XDR). Methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) accounted for up to 19 (70.3%) of the S aureus isolates, likewise extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producing microorganisms constituted 16 (14.5%) of total isolates in this study. Oxacillin and benzyl penicillin exhibited least susceptibility against Gram-positive bacteria, among Gram-negative organisms; cefuroxime, ceftriaxone, and ciprofloxacin were least sensitive. As most of the S aureus isolate in our study was MRSA, empirical antimicrobial therapy may include coverage for MRSA in a patient with risk factors associated with this pathogen. A crucial observation is the presence of XDR strains of Proteus mirabilis in DFIs, which is resistant to almost all the antimicrobials, tested. Appropriate antimicrobial selection may reduce the morbidity and the emergence of MDR organisms in DFIs.
Mitigating Medication-Related Fall Risk Through Pharmacist–Prescriber Collaboration
Authors: White Nicole D.
Published: August 2021

Medications are known to increase the risk for fall in older adults, and pharmacists can contribute to fall risk prevention through medication therapy management services. STEADI-Rx is an initiative developed to facilitate fall risk reduction through pharmacist–prescriber collaboration. Key components of the STEADI-Rx algorithm are described as well as evidence supporting its integration in practice.
Does body mass index have an effect on clinical and pain after endovenous therapy? A retrospective study
Authors: Donbaloğlu Mehmet O
Published: August 2021

Objectives:

The study aims to investigate the change in postoperative clinic, pain, and general quality of life of patients who were operated on due to chronic venous disease (CVD), according to their body mass index (BMI).

Materials and methods:

150 patients (30–45 years) who were treated with cyanoacrylate embolization for CVD between January 2017 and February 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. The clinical (C) category of clinical, etiology, anatomy, and pathophysiology (CEAP) classification venous clinical severity score (VCSS) and visual analog scale (VAS) questionnaires were applied to the patients before and after the operation periodically. The patients were surveyed preoperatively and postoperatively at 1st, 6th, 12th, and 24th months.

Results:

The patients were divided into three groups according to their BMI. In the comparison between normal and overweight participants, venous reflux, CEAP C categories, and VAS scores were not statistically significantly different in preoperative and postoperative periods. In the comparison between normal and obese participants, CEAP C categories, VCSS, and VAS scores were statistically significantly different in postoperative periods. There was no statistically significant difference in terms of venous reflux preoperatively and postoperatively in all three groups.

Conclusions:

The study showed that the increase in BMI had negative effects on the CEAP C categories, pain, and quality of life independently of the venous reflux of CVD.
The Effect of Readers Theater on EFL Seventh-Graders’ Reading and Listening Comprehension
Authors: Lo Chih-Cheng , Wen Hsifu , Lin Yi-Shuang
Published: August 2021

While the effect of Readers Theater (RT) on English oral reading fluency has been extensively investigated, research on the effect of RT on adolescents’ English reading and listening comprehension was scant and yielded different results. This research aimed to explore how RT instruction influenced English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students, especially adolescents, in English reading and listening comprehension. This article conducted a 10-week quasi-experimental design involving two intact classes of 68 seventh-grade students from central Taiwan. The instruments included pretests and posttests of English reading and listening comprehension and nine students were interviewed for an in-depth analysis. The results revealed that the experimental group statistically significantly outperformed the control group on reading comprehension, but not on listening comprehension. Consequently, despite the advantages of RT instruction on reading comprehension stated in the article, interaction among learners in terms of listening comprehension is needed to be emphasized in the course when adopting the RT instruction.
The US–South Korea alliance: How the patron benefits from the protégé
Authors: Lee Sojeong , Prins Brandon , Wiegand Krista E.
Published: August 2021

Since the end of World War II, the US military has continuously deployed troops to South Korea. The alliance works as an asymmetrical alliance, where the US is a patron and South Korea is a protégé. While it is argued that this deployment has significant political, economic, and military effects on South Korea and the region, few studies have examined how the presence of US forces there enhances US military and economic power as well as national security interests. In this paper, we examine the costs and benefits of the US–South Korea alliance, specifically focusing on US troop deployment on the Korean Peninsula. In particular, we argue that the US military alliance with South Korea has significant benefits to both partners, but particularly for the sake of US national security interests. In this sense, the protégé state provides significant benefits to the patron state. We discuss the strategic importance of South Korea in US foreign policy in the region and emphasize the benefits of the US–South Korea alliance at the various levels.
Damage control surgery (DCS) in the management of maxillofacial bomb blast patients during the Yemen civil conflict. Neighboring Level 1 trauma hospital experience
Authors: Daniels John Spencer , Albakry Ibrahim , Braimah Ramat Oyebunmi , Samara Mohammed Ismail , Albalasi Rabea Arafa , Al Rayshan Saleh Mana Mohammed
Published: August 2021

Study design:

Application of Damage Control Surgery (DCS) in Oral and maxillofacial surgery is still evolving, therefore, the current study hopes to share our experience in the management of bomb blast patients.

Objectives:

The objectives of the current study is to share our experience in the management of maxillofacial bomb blast injuries emphasizing on DCS.

Methods:

This was a retrospective study of combatant Yemeni war patients who were transported across the border from Yemen and treated in Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from December 2015 to December 2019. Information such as etiology of injury, age, zone of injury and mechanisms of bomb blast associated injuries, treatment protocol and complications. The treatment protocols adopted include; DCS in which exploration to control soft tissue bleeding was done and when bone bleeding could not be controlled, immediate reduction and osteosynthesis of bone fractures was carried out. Early Definitive Surgery (EDS) was done in patients that were hemodynamically stable with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of all facial bone fractures. Closed reduction and fixation were done with the use of arch bars while in conservative approach, patients were placed only on soft diet. Data was stored and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for IOS Version 25 (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp).

Results:

A total of 235 (57.6%) patients sustained bomb blast injuries from the 408 war casualties. Other patients (42.4%) sustained other types of injuries. All the patients were males. Their ages ranged from 21 to 53 years with mean (SD) at 27.3 (5.6) years. DCS was carried out in a large proportion of the patients totaling 78 (33.2%) patients, while EDS was carried out in 58 (24.7%) hemodynamically stable patients. ORIF was the main treatment modality for the fractures in 136 (57.9%) of the patients.

Conclusion:

The result of the study showed a large proportion of the patients were managed with DCS. DCS should be seen as a strategy in stabilizing the patients before definitive surgery is performed.
Surface finishing requirements on various internal cylindrical components: A review
Authors: Bedi Talwinder Singh , Rana Ajay Singh
Published: August 2021

Modern technology requires producing of a sustainable product with a high surface accuracy. In applications where the surface quality is highly considerable in various internal cylindrical components requires technology to manufacture an ultrafine surface finish. There is, in general, a probability of inducing errors into products by the traditional finishing processes (such as grinding/honing), which lead to failure. Preferably with some evidence in the main text. Further, the advanced finishing processes are developed, where the finishing forces can be controlled by varying the power output. Instead of a solid abrasive tool, the smart polishing fluid is used, which gets activated under the magnetic fields. In this manuscript, the material removal under different internal surface finishing processes is elaborated, which helps in improving the surface quality of various industrial components. Also, the surface quality produced on various industrial components after traditional as well as advanced finishing processes are discussed.
Mass spectrometry-based proteomics in basic and translational research of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and its emerging mutants
Authors: Rais Yasmine , Fu Zhiqiang , Drabovich Andrei P.
Published: August 2021

Molecular diagnostics of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) now mainly relies on the measurements of viral RNA by RT-PCR, or detection of anti-viral antibodies by immunoassays. In this review, we discussed the perspectives of mass spectrometry-based proteomics as an analytical technique to identify and quantify proteins of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and to enable basic research and clinical studies on COVID-19. While RT-PCR and RNA sequencing are indisputably powerful techniques for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 and identification of the emerging mutations, proteomics may provide confirmatory diagnostic information and complimentary biological knowledge on protein abundance, post-translational modifications, protein–protein interactions, and the functional impact of the emerging mutations. Pending advances in sensitivity and throughput of mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography, shotgun and targeted proteomic assays may find their niche for the differential quantification of viral proteins in clinical and environmental samples. Targeted proteomic assays in combination with immunoaffinity enrichments also provide orthogonal tools to evaluate cross-reactivity of serology tests and facilitate development of tests with the nearly perfect diagnostic specificity, this enabling reliable testing of broader populations for the acquired immunity. The coronavirus pandemic of 2019–2021 is another reminder that the future global pandemics may be inevitable, but their impact could be mitigated with the novel tools and assays, such as mass spectrometry-based proteomics, to enable continuous monitoring of emerging viruses, and to facilitate rapid response to novel infectious diseases.
Sustainability in quality improvement (SusQI): a case-study in undergraduate medical education
Authors: Clery Philippa , d’Arch Smith Stuart , Marsden Oliver , Leedham-Green Kathleen
Published: August 2021

Background

There is a pressing need for more sustainable healthcare. UK medical graduates are required to apply social, economic, and environmental principles of sustainability to their practice. The Centre for Sustainable Healthcare has developed a sustainability in quality improvement (SusQI) framework and educator’s toolkit to address these challenges. We aimed to develop and evaluate SusQI teaching using this toolkit at Bristol Medical School.

Methods

We facilitated a SusQI workshop for all third-year Bristol Medical School students. We used mixed methods including questionnaires, exit interviews and follow-up focus groups to evaluate the outcomes and processes of learning.

Results

Students reported: improvements in knowledge, confidence, and attitudes in both sustainable healthcare and quality improvement; increased self-rated likelihood to engage in SusQI projects; and willingness to change practices to reduce environmental impact in their healthcare roles. Factors for successful teaching included: interactivity; collaboration and participation; and real-life, relevant and tangible examples of projects delivered by credible role models.

Conclusions

Students reported that SusQI education supported by the toolkit was effective at building knowledge and skills, and reframed their thinking on sustainability in quality improvement. Combining the two topics provided enhanced motivation for and engagement in both. Further research is needed on the clinical impacts of SusQI learning.
Human papillomavirus vaccination in adults: impact, opportunities and challenges – a meeting report
Authors: Waheed Dur-e-Nayab , Schiller John , Stanley Margaret , Franco Eduardo L. , Poljak Mario , Kjaer Susanne K. , del Pino Marta , van der Klis Fiona , Schim van der Loeff Maarten F. , Baay Marc , Van Damme Pierre , Vorsters Alex
Published: August 2021

For more than a decade human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine have been implemented in most high-income countries, and more recently also in several low- and middle-income countries. The vaccines are safe and their impact and effectiveness in preventing HPV vaccine type infection and associated diseases has been thoroughly established. Currently, the primary recommended cohorts for immunisation are adolescents, 9–15 years of age but HPV is an ubiquitous infection that is mainly (but not exclusively) sexually transmitted. Sexually active adults remain susceptible to infection and continued transmission of the virus, representing a reservoir of infection in the population. A recent meeting, conducted by the HPV Prevention and Control Board (HPV-PCB), reviewed the current status of HPV vaccination of adults, discussed limitations, challenges and benefits of HPV vaccination of adults, evaluated the effectiveness of HPV vaccination after treatment of post cervical cancer and precancerous lesions, and discussed the potential impact of adult vaccination on cervical cancer elimination strategies in light of the current and future HPV vaccine shortage. HPV-PCB is an independent multidisciplinary board of international experts that disseminates relevant information on HPV to a broad array of stakeholders and provides guidance on strategic, technical and policy issues in the implementation of HPV prevention and control programs. The HPV-PCB concluded that, given the current data available on adult HPV vaccination and the ongoing vaccine supply constraints, it is too early to implement routine vaccination of adults. Many research gaps need to be filled before we have a better understanding of the efficacy and broader public health impact of HPV vaccination in adult women.
Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) in patients with major trauma and uncontrolled haemorrhagic shock: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Castellini Greta , Gianola Silvia , Biffi Annalisa , Porcu Gloria , Fabbri Andrea , Ruggieri Maria Pia , Coniglio Carlo , Napoletano Antonello , Coclite Daniela , D’Angelo Daniela , Fauci Alice Josephine , Iacorossi Laura , Latina Roberto , Salomone Katia , Gupta Shailvi , Iannone Primiano , Chiara Osvaldo ,   the Italian National Institute of Health guideline working group on Major Trauma, Stocchetti Nino , De Blasio Elvio , Flego Gaddo , Geraci Massimo , Maccauro Giulio , Rampoldi Antonio , Santolini Federico , Tacconi Claudio , Tugnoli Gregorio
Published: August 2021

Background

Multiple studies regarding the use of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) in patients with non-compressible torso injuries and uncontrolled haemorrhagic shock were recently published. To date, the clinical evidence of the efficacy of REBOA is still debated. We aimed to conduct a systematic review assessing the clinical efficacy and safety of REBOA in patients with major trauma and uncontrolled haemorrhagic shock.

Methods

We systematically searched MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE and CENTRAL up to June 2020. All randomized controlled trials and observational studies that investigated the use of REBOA compared to resuscitative thoracotomy (RT) with/without REBOA or no-REBOA were eligible.

We followed the PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. Two authors independently extracted data and appraised the risk of bias of included studies. Effect sizes were pooled in a meta-analysis using random-effects models. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology. Primary outcomes were mortality, volume of infused blood components, health-related quality of life, time to haemorrhage control and any adverse effects. Secondary outcomes were improvement in haemodynamic status and failure/success of REBOA technique.

Results

We included 11 studies (5866 participants) ranging from fair to good quality. REBOA was associated with lower mortality when compared to RT (aOR 0.38; 95% CI 0.20–0.74), whereas no difference was observed when REBOA was compared to no-REBOA (aOR 1.40; 95% CI 0.79–2.46). No significant difference in health-related quality of life between REBOA and RT (p= 0.766). The most commonly reported complications were amputation, haematoma and pseudoaneurysm. Sparse data and heterogeneity of reporting for all other outcomes prevented any estimate.

Conclusions

Our findings on overall mortality suggest a positive effect of REBOA among non-compressible torso injuries when compared to RT but no differences compared to no-REBOA. Variability in indications and patient characteristics prevents any conclusion deserving further investigation. REBOA should be promoted in specific training programs in an experimental setting in order to test its effectiveness and a randomized trial should be planned.
Preoperative characteristics and intraoperative factors do not correlate with accomplishments of active straight-leg raising, standing up, and walking after primary total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Ishii Yoshinori , Noguchi Hideo , Sato Junko , Takahashi Ikuko , Ishii Hana , Ishii Ryo , Ishii Kei , Toyabe Shin-Ichi
Published: August 2021

Background

The correlations between patient characteristics and early postoperative functional performances after total knee arthroplasty have not been adequately studied. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effects of preoperative characteristics (sex, age, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, hospital for special surgery score) and intraoperative factors (duration of surgery and tourniquet use) on the time required to accomplish active straight-leg-raising, standing up, and walking as the objective performances for the initiation of early postoperative rehabilitation.

Methods

This cross-sectional retrospective study included 307 patients (384 primary total knee arthroplasties). Postoperative times required until each activity was accomplished were measured. Various preoperative characteristics and intraoperative factors that might affect three objective performances were evaluated.

Results

The postoperative times required before each activity was accomplished were 1.5 ± 0.5 days for active straight-leg-raising, 1.2 ± 0.5 days for standing up, and 1.4 ± 0.7 days for walking. There were no significant correlations between any factor (age, body mass index, hospital for special surgery score, duration of surgery, and tourniquet use) and the three objective performances using Spearman’s correlation coefficient. There were no differences in sex or American Society of Anesthesiologists grade for three objective functional assessments by Wilcoxon rank sum test.

Conclusions

Differences in patient preoperative characteristics and intraoperative factors are unlikely to affect three objective functional performances in the early postoperative period. Therefore, there is no need to consider differences between patients when initiating early postoperative rehabilitation.
MicroRNAs involve in bicuspid aortic aneurysm: pathogenesis and biomarkers
Authors: Jia Hao , Kang Le , Ma Zhen , Lu Shuyang , Huang Ben , Wang Chunsheng , Zou Yunzeng , Sun Yongxin
Published: August 2021

The incidence of bicuspid aortic valves (BAV) is high in the whole population, BAV-related thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is accompanied by many adverse vascular events. So far, there are two key points in dealing with BAV-related TAA. First is fully understanding on its pathogenesis. Second is optimizing surgical intervention time. This review aims to illustrate the potential role of miRNAs in both aspects, that is, how miRNAs are involved in the occurrence and progression of BAV-related TAA, and the feasibilities of miRNAs as biomarkers.
Altered hippocampal transcriptome dynamics following sleep deprivation
Authors: Gaine Marie E. , Bahl Ethan , Chatterjee Snehajyoti , Michaelson Jacob J. , Abel Ted , Lyons Lisa C.
Published: August 2021

Widespread sleep deprivation is a continuing public health problem in the United States and worldwide affecting adolescents and adults. Acute sleep deprivation results in decrements in spatial memory and cognitive impairments. The hippocampus is vulnerable to acute sleep deprivation with changes in gene expression, cell signaling, and protein synthesis. Sleep deprivation also has long lasting effects on memory and performance that persist after recovery sleep, as seen in behavioral studies from invertebrates to humans. Although previous research has shown that acute sleep deprivation impacts gene expression, the extent to which sleep deprivation affects gene regulation remains unknown. Using an unbiased deep RNA sequencing approach, we investigated the effects of acute sleep deprivation on gene expression in the hippocampus. We identified 1,146 genes that were significantly dysregulated following sleep deprivation with 507 genes upregulated and 639 genes downregulated, including protein coding genes and long non-coding RNAs not previously identified as impacted by sleep deprivation. Notably, genes significantly upregulated after sleep deprivation were associated with RNA splicing and the nucleus. In contrast, downregulated genes were associated with cell adhesion, dendritic localization, the synapse, and postsynaptic membrane. Furthermore, we found through independent experiments analyzing a subset of genes that three hours of recovery sleep following acute sleep deprivation was sufficient to normalize mRNA abundance for most genes, although exceptions occurred for some genes that may affect RNA splicing or transcription. These results clearly demonstrate that sleep deprivation differentially regulates gene expression on multiple transcriptomic levels to impact hippocampal function.
Kidney cancer biomarkers and targets for therapeutics: survivin (BIRC5), XIAP, MCL-1, HIF1α, HIF2α, NRF2, MDM2, MDM4, p53, KRAS and AKT in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Fengzhi , Aljahdali Ieman A. M. , Zhang Renyuan , Nastiuk Kent L. , Krolewski John J. , Ling Xiang
Published: August 2021

The incidence of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is increasing worldwide with an approximate 20% mortality rate. The challenge in RCC is the therapy-resistance. Cancer resistance to treatment employs multiple mechanisms due to cancer heterogeneity with multiple genetic and epigenetic alterations. These changes include aberrant overexpression of (1) anticancer cell death proteins (e.g., survivin/BIRC5), (2) DNA repair regulators (e.g., ERCC6) and (3) efflux pump proteins (e.g., ABCG2/BCRP); mutations and/or deregulation of key (4) oncogenes (e.g., MDM2, KRAS) and/or (5) tumor suppressor genes (e.g., TP5/p53); and (6) deregulation of redox-sensitive regulators (e.g., HIF, NRF2). Foci of tumor cells that have these genetic alterations and/or deregulation possess survival advantages and are selected for survival during treatment. We will review the significance of survivin (BIRC5), XIAP, MCL-1, HIF1α, HIF2α, NRF2, MDM2, MDM4, TP5/p53, KRAS and AKT in treatment resistance as the potential therapeutic biomarkers and/or targets in RCC in parallel with our analized RCC-relevant TCGA genetic results from each of these gene/protein molecules. We then present our data to show the anticancer drug FL118 modulation of these protein targets and RCC cell/tumor growth. Finally, we include additional data to show a promising FL118 analogue (FL496) for treating the specialized type 2 papillary RCC.
Early detection and persistent positivity of anti-Leishmania antibodies using a recombinant protein-based ELISA in naturally infected dogs in Brazil
Authors: de Jesus Matheus Silva , Cruz João Victor Andrade , Coelho Lívia Brito , Borja Lairton Souza , da Silva Edmilson Domingos , Solcà Manuela da Silva , Brodskyn Claudia Ida , Fraga Deborah Bittencourt Mothé
Published: August 2021

Background

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a zoonotic disease caused byLeishmania infantum, for which dogs constitute the main urban parasite reservoir. Control measures and the treatment of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) are essential to reduce VL cases. Early and accurate detection ofL. infantum-infected dogs is crucial to the success of VL control. To improve the serological detection ofL. infantum-exposed dogs, we evaluated the early diagnosis capacity of a recombinant protein (rLci5) in an immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect naturally infected dogs. Additionally, we evaluated the persistence of the positive results obtained by rLci5 ELISA in comparison to other conventional diagnostic test methods.

Methods

Serum samples obtained from 48L. infantum-infected dogs involved in a cohort study were evaluated using different diagnostic methods (qPCR, EIE-LVC, DPP-LVC and splenic culture). The results were compared to rLci5 ELISA to determine its capacity to diagnoseL. infantuminfection at earlier infection time points. The persistence of positive diagnostic test results was also compared for each dog evaluated.

Results

rLci5 ELISA presented higher rates of positive results at early time points compared to the other diagnostic tests employed in the cohort study, as early as 24 months prior to detection by other tests. rLci5 ELISA positivity was 52.1% (25/48) at baseline, while qPCR was 35.4% (17/48), DPP-LVC 27.1% (13/48), EIE-LVC 22.9% (11/48) and culture only 4.2% (2/48). In at least one of the time points of the 24-month cohort study, rLci5 ELISA was positive in 100% (48/48) of the dogs, versus 83% (40/48) for qPCR, 75% (36/48) for DPP-LVC, 65% (31/48) for EIE-LVC and 31% (15/48) for culture. Investigating clinical signs in association with diagnostic test positivity, rLci5 ELISA successfully detected CVL in 62.9% (95/151) of the clinical evaluations with a score of 0–3, 64.3% (45/70) with scores between 4 and 7, and 73.7% (14/19) with scores > 7, providing higher rates of positivity than all other methods evaluated. Moreover, rLci5 ELISA presented the greatest persistence with respect to test positivity: 45.8% of the dogs evaluated.

Conclusion

Four diagnostic tests were compared to rLci5 ELISA, which presented earlier infection diagnosis and a greater persistence of positive test results. Accordingly, the use of the rLci5 ELISA can improve CVL diagnostic performance by detecting infected dogs sooner than other testing methods, with enhanced persistence of positive results over the course of the infection.

Graphic abstract