bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paraneoplastic pemphigus associated with rapidly progressing endophthalmitis caused by Morganella Morganii: A case report
Authors: Almater Abdullah I , Abusayf Mohammed M , Alshahrani Saeed , Alfawaz Abdullah M , Alkatan Hind M , Al-Faky Yasser H
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

The ocular presentation of paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP) has rarely been reported in the literature. In this report, we describe a 61-year-old male presenting with eruptive skin lesions associated with underlying non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma who had rapid progressive corneal perforation with secondary endophthalmitis in the setting of PNP.

Case description:

A 61-year-old male presented to the emergency department complaining of skin eruption mimicking Stevens–Johnson syndrome, which was later found to be related to PNP. Initially, the patient complained of progressive ocular surface dryness in both eyes. Meanwhile, he developed mild pain in the right eye associated with blurry vision in both eyes and was managed with lubricants and topical antibiotics. A few days later, he was found to have corneal perforation with features suggestive of left endophthalmitis with possible early panophthalmitis. Intravenous antibiotic was administered, and primary evisceration of the left globe was performed. Histopathology revealed acute necrotizing keratitis and endophthalmitis. Vitreous analysis showed numerous gram-negative bacilli and a positive culture of Morganella morganii. The patient continued to be managed with frequent lubrications and punctual plugs in the fellow eye during the follow-up period.

Conclusion:

We describe the first case of endophthalmitis developing secondary to PNP-induced corneal melting and perforation. Anticipating unusual infectious sequelae in the setting of PNP might be warranted to actively detect and successfully manage dry eye disease before devastating complications develop.
Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease in Spain
Authors: Arriola-Villalobos Pedro , Moll-Udina Aina , Carrasco-López-Brea Mario , Sacristan Cristina , Capella Maria Jose , Peiteado Diana , Garrote-Llordén Ana , Albert Fort Mara , Jódar Márquez Margarita , Jacobo Gonzalez Guijarro Juan , Demetrio-Pablo Rosalia , Luis Sánchez Sevilla Juan , Carreño Ester , González-López Julio , Miguel-Escuder Lucia , Cuadros Carlos , Díaz-Valle David , Adan Alfredo ,   Contributors: VKH Spanish Study Group, Benítez del Castillo José M , Fonollosa Alejandro , Cordero Miguel , Martínez Costa Lucia , Blanco-Alonso Ricardo
Published: July 2021

Purpose:

To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease in Spain.

Methods:

This was a retrospective multicenter analysis of data from VKH patients followed for at least 6 months. The data collected were related to demographics, clinical manifestations, treatments, and complications.

Results:

Participants were 112 patients (224 eyes), from 13 tertiary referral centers, of mean age 37.5 ± 14.7 years; 83.9% were women. Ethnicities were 61.6% Caucasian and 30.4% Hispanic. The disease was classified as complete in 16.1%, incomplete in 55.4%, and probable in 28.6%. When seen for the first time, the clinical course was acute in 69.6%, recurrent chronic in 15.2%, and chronic in 14.3%. The most frequent treatment was corticosteroids (acute stage 42.2%, maintenance stage 55.6%). The most common complications were cataract (41.1%) and ocular hypertension (16.1%). In most eyes, visual acuity was improved (96.7%) or remained stable at the end of follow up.

Conclusion:

VKH in Spain mostly affects women and presents as incomplete acute stage disease. Visual prognosis is good. Cataract and glaucoma are the two most frequent complications.
Optical coherence tomography angiography application to pigmented iris: Could a new index quantify blood flow?
Authors: Lucentini Stefano , Ikesugi Kengo , Bonsignore Francesco , Acuti Martellucci Cecilia , Sugimoto Masahiko , Matsubara Hisashi , Matsui Yoshitsugu , Luccarelli Saverio Vincenzo , Nucci Paolo , Kondo Mineo
Published: July 2021

Purpose:

To assess the blood flow and vascular visibility of irises in relation to pigmentation and pupil size, using an anterior segment optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Materials and methods:

This is a cross-sectional study. OCTA images were acquired in the nasal and temporal quadrants from a cohort of 30 healthy subjects in photopic (miosis) and scotopic (mydriasis) conditions. Patients were divided according to iris color (less pigmented: group L vs more pigmented: group D). Vascular parameters (vessel density (VD), vessel length density (VLD), fractal dimension (FD)) were applied and compared among groups L and D, location and different pupil status. A novel vascular index called Luminance Index (LI) was developed and applied in order to quantify vascular flow and evaluate its variation in photopic and scotopic conditions. Multivariable analyses were performed to evaluate possible predictors of VD and LI.

Results:

No differences were found for all vascular measurements (VD, VDL, FD, LI) between nasal and temporal quadrants. All vascular measurements were higher in group L than in group D ( p < 0.05), except for LI and FD in photopic condition. In group L, all vascular parameters increased ( p < 0.001) after dark adaptation. In group D, only LI increased after dark adaptation ( p < 0.001). Pigmentation and iris thickness were significantly associated with VD in scotopic and photopic conditions, and with LI only in scotopic condition.

Conclusions:

Pigmentation still remains a major issue for vascular visibility. Quantitative and qualitative vascular changes follow pupil size variation. LI could be a new surrogate to quantify blood flow.
Changes in Alcohol Habits Among Workers During the Confinement of COVID-19: Results of a Canadian Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Mongeau-Pérusse Violaine , Rizkallah Elie , Bruneau Julie , Chênevert Denis , Menvielle Loick , Jutras-Aswad Didier
Published: July 2021

Background:

The restrictions implemented around the world to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) impact workers. Emotional distress and maladaptive behaviors such as alcohol misuse are expected, particularly in vulnerable groups such as front-line health workers. In the present study, we examined if alcohol consumption behaviors in Quebec workers changed during confinement of the COVID-19 pandemic, and whether healthcare workers reported specific patterns of changes.

Methods:

Data were obtained from an anonymous online survey conducted among adult workers aged ⩾18 years in the province of Quebec, Canada, between May 25, 2020 and June 26, 2020. Participants provided self-reported data regarding sociodemographic including field of work, as well as mental health disorders, alcohol use, alcohol craving, and type of alcohol consumed. Changes in alcohol behaviors were assessed using Wilcoxon signed rank test for categorial variables and paired- t tests for continuous variables.

Results:

The survey was completed by 847 participants (77.8% women), with 42.5% healthcare workers. Participants reported increased daily alcohol use ( Z = −10.60; P < .001, r = −.372) and alcohol craving ( P < .001, d = 0.485) during the confinement. Only the type of alcohol consumed during the confinement differed between health care workers and other workers (OR = 0.45, P = .003). Health care workers used less high alcohol products during the confinement.

Conclusion:

Our results show a significant increase in daily alcohol consumption and in alcohol craving during the confinement in the Quebec working population.
The limits of transactional identity: Whiteness and embodiment in digital facial replacement
Authors: Ayers Drew
Published: July 2021

Focusing on a series of YouTube creators, this essay interrogates the persistence of the hegemonic power of the white male hardbody, arguing that digital facial replacements – in particular those of 1980s action stars – produce a mode of white, masculine identity that is essentially exchangeable and transactional. These bodies are capitalist commodities, fundamentally interchangable and asserting the same bundle of ideological traits. The technology of digital facial replacement allows creators to visualize this exchange value. As opposed to the pornographic, invasive, and misogynistic face swap videos originally posted on reddit.com by user ‘deepfakes’ in 2017, the facial replacement videos found on YouTube are more playful in nature, imagining alternate histories and using face swapping as a mode of comedy. This case study of 1980s action stars opens up to a broader examination of issues of identity in digital facial replacement. In the videos under analysis, gender swaps are relatively common, but ethnic swaps are scarce. The reluctance of the YouTubers to ‘blindcast’ their revisionist videos reveals a subtle critique of the fantasy of a post-racial world. Racial difference – and, perhaps, cultural specificity – remains intact, and the creators take a seemingly apolitical, comical, ‘safe’ approach to identity rather than an explicitly critical stance. By denuding the more threatening and destructive aspects of deepfakes, these YouTube videos produce a more palatable version of facial replacement. This version, however, is no less ideologically complex than its more explicitly political and misogynistic counterparts. These contemporary facial substitutions not only continue to ‘reboot’ white male hegemony, but they also function as an ideological reclamation of masculine power in the present through modified images of the (revisionist) past.
The social dynamics of group offending
Authors: Weaver Beth , Fraser Alistair
Published: July 2021

Theoretical explanations of group offending have been hindered by a focus on rational actor models of social relationships. One consequence of this has been a neglect of the dynamics of social relations and their role in group offending and desistance. Drawing illustratively on two studies conducted in the West of Scotland, this article advances an integrated theoretical framework for the comparative study of group offending that moves beyond either individualizing or ‘gang’ frames dominating existing discourse, towards a thick understanding of situated social relations. By integrating Bourdieu’s concept of habitus with Donati’s relational realist framework, this article theoretically and empirically examines the dynamics of group offending relationships, what shapes them and the way they can, in turn, shape and affect offending and desistance trajectories.
Spanish gay male subjectivity, body, intimacy, and affect on Instagram
Authors: Gras-Velázquez Adrián , Maestre-Brotons Antoni
Published: July 2021

This article analyzes how a neoliberal understanding of identity shapes gay subjectivity, body, affect, and intimacy in digital environments, particularly Instagram. This social media has become one of the most relevant elements of gay subculture in Western countries, including Spain. Neoliberalism usually reduces gayness to a sort of global marketable brand which is understood as an individual attribute rather than a collective identity that provides common ground to fight for LGBT rights and against homophobia. Drawing on previous research on online self-representation and gay subjectivity, we specifically explore this global pattern in Spanish gay users of Instagram. To this end, we examine posts containing the tag #gaySpain uploaded between April and May 2020. In general, our research shows that the profiles tend to provide narratives of successful personal self-engineering and self-promotion, rather than activism and collective empowerment. These narratives present the gay body as a commercial product or something to be admired and consumed, whilst affect is part of an online highly ritualized performance and communication, and by no means a force for social change. As part of self-representation in social media, intimacy is constructed on Instagram for a large audience as an attractive example of a thriving gay life; in simple terms, Instagram has become gay show business like other manifestations of this subculture such as the Pride march.
Microstructural and mechanical characterization of novel AA7075 composites reinforced with rice husk ash and carbonized eggshells
Authors: Gupta Vivudh , Singh Balbir , Mishra RK
Published: July 2021

This paper investigates microstructural and mechanical characteristics of novel AA7075 composites supplemented with agricultural waste, i.e. rice husk ash and poultry waste, i.e. carbonized eggshells. Both these wastes possess important constituents which make them potential reinforcement material for composites, and their utilization also reduces the problem of disposal to a certain extent. AA7075 composites with varying weight percentages of rice husk ash and carbonized eggshells were prepared through stir casting route. The sum of weight percentages of both reinforcements was kept constant at 5 wt.%. Composites were tested for density and different mechanical properties. Prior to these tests, composites were examined through scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy techniques, wherein uniform distribution of reinforcements was observed. Inclusion of light weight reinforcements decreased the density of composites. Among these composites, highest hardness value was shown by composite having 5 wt.% of rice husk ash with 24.47% enhancement over unreinforced AA7075. Maximum tensile strength and compression strength were exhibited by hybrid composite with 3.75 wt.% rice husk ash and 1.25 wt.% carbonized eggshells. This increment is 28.20% and 16%, respectively, over base composition. Impact strength decreased as the weight percentage of CES increased, thereby indicating brittleness in behaviour. Fractography analysis of tensile and impact test specimens was done through scanning electron microscopy to determine failure mode wherein presence of cracks, voids, dimples, debonding, etc. was observed. Hence, these light weight and low cost green AA7075 composites showed improved properties making them as an alternative as well as sustainable material for automotive and aerospace applications.
Gang members and extremists in Switzerland: Similarities and differences
Authors: Haymoz Sandrine , Baier Dirk , Jacot Cédric , Manzoni Patrik , Kamenowski Maria , Isenhardt Anna
Published: July 2021

Scholars rarely compare youth gangs members and extremists. Yet, studies of gangs can yield relevant information on extremist groups, and vice versa. This article compares youth gang members with left-wing, right-wing and Islamist extremists. The aims of this article are to determine the prevalence of gang members and extremists among young people in Switzerland, to determine the overlap, if any, between gang members and extremists, and to analyse the differences and similarities of individual characteristics among the gang members and extremists, their delinquency and victimization. Comparisons of such groups may provide important insights into the individual members of these groups. The similarities between gang members and extremists could give us information for the prevention programmes. The study was based on a self-report survey completed by 8317 students of non-compulsory school age (about 17 years old) and living in Switzerland. The results show greater numbers of young people affiliated with gangs (6.6 percent) and left-wing extremism (6.2 percent), and more similarities between the members of gangs and left-wing extremists, compared with the other forms of extremism.
Newspaper Coverage of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Toxic Stress in the United States, 2014–2020: Consequences, Causes, and Solutions
Authors: Purtle Jonathan , Bowler Sarah , Boughter-Dornfeld Maura , Nelson Katherine L. , Gollust Sarah E.
Published: July 2021

News media can shape public opinion about child adversity and influence the translation of research into public policy. Research about adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress has increased dramatically in recent years, but little is known about how these concepts are covered in news media. We reviewed how newspapers in the United States have portrayed the consequences of, causes of, and solutions to address ACEs and toxic stress, examined trends in newspaper coverage, and assessed differences in coverage of ACEs versus toxic stress. Quantitative content analysis was conducted of 746 newspaper articles mentioning “adverse childhood experience(s)” and/or “toxic stress” published in 25 U.S. newspapers between January 1, 2014, and May 30, 2020. κ statistics of interrater reliability were calculated, and variables with κ ≥ .60 were retained for quantitative analysis. We found that newspaper coverage of ACEs and toxic stress increased dramatically between 2014 and 2018 and then sharply declined. Only 13.3% of articles mentioned both ACEs and toxic stress. There were many statistically significant ( p < .05) differences in the causes, consequences, and solutions identified in articles focused on ACEs versus toxic stress. Coverage of both concepts predominantly focused on consequences for individuals, not society. However, 54.6% of articles identified a structural cause of ACEs and/or toxic stress. Increased volume in newspaper coverage about ACEs and toxic stress could increase public awareness about the relationship between childhood adversity and adult outcomes. There is a need to portray ACEs and toxic stress as complementary concepts more coherently in news media.
Downregulation of LEF1 Impairs Myeloma Cell Growth Through Modulating CYLD/NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Zhang Guihua , Miao Faan , Liu Kaige , Wu Jinyan , Xu Jinge
Published: July 2021

Aberrant expression of lymphoid enhancer-binding factor-1 (LEF1) has been identified in various hematological malignancies including multiple myeloma (MM). However, the exact role of LEF1 in MM remains largely unknown. Here, we showed that knockdown of LEF1 could apparently impair the proliferation, induce apoptosis and promote the ROS production in MM cell lines, suggesting that LEF1 might be involved in maintaining MM cell growth and survival. Moreover, we observed that the mRNA level of the deubiquitinase cylindromatosis (CYLD), a well-recognized tumor suppressor in MM, was significantly increased following LEF1 depletion in myeloma cells. Further study showed that LEF1 could directly associate with the promoter of CYLD gene and thus repress its transcription in MM cells. Intriguingly, LEF1 depletion-mediated CYLD upregulation was sufficient to negatively modulate NF-κB signaling pathway in MM cells. Moreover, the decrease in NF-κB activity following LEF1 knockdown could be largely rescued when CYLD was silenced in MM cells. Taken together, our study provided the compelling evidence to show that LEF1 may augment the proliferation and survival of MM cells through direct repression of CYLD transcription and subsequent activation of NF-κB signaling pathway, corroborating that LEF1 may become a potential therapeutic target against MM.
A Ruler for Abdominoplasty Preoperative Markings: The Potential of Best Scar Symmetry
Authors: Horta Ricardo , Domingues Cátia S. , Dias Cláudia C. , Barreiro Diogo
Published: July 2021

Background. Scar appearance is an important outcome in abdominoplasty surgery, and its asymmetry can have a significant impact on patient and surgeon satisfaction. Here, we compared the scar symmetry reached with a ruler specially designed for the preoperative marking in abdominoplasty to the classic preoperative incision marking. Methods. In this randomized, uni-blind study, 42 patients were allocated to 2 different groups. Group 1 patients had their preoperative marking made by a group of surgeons that used the classic technique as described by Baroudi (n = 21), and Group 2 patients received their preoperative marking by another group of surgeons, using a ruler specially designed to fit the abdominal contour (n = 21). Patients were evaluated using a standard questionnaire that collected information about general patient’s characteristics. On the follow-up period, we evaluated the presence of late surgical complications, need for revision surgery, patient’s satisfaction concerning the postoperative scar, and 4 distances were measured in both groups to assess symmetry. Statistical analysis was made. Results. A total of 42 patients underwent abdominoplasty and were evaluated on the follow-up period (mean time: 4 months). The mean difference of corresponding measures on each side (A-B vs. A-B’ and A-C vs. A-C’) was higher in Group 1 comparing to Group 2. The level of correlation between corresponding measurements was higher in Group 2. Better satisfaction regarding the scar symmetry was achieved in Group 2, being this result statistically significant ( P = .004). Conclusions. The use of the specialized ruler may help surgeons achieve a better scar symmetry with higher patient satisfaction.
Beyond culture: Advancing the understanding of political and technological contexts in crisis communication
Authors: Zhao Hui
Published: July 2021

This study aims to theoretically advance the context-oriented tradition in crisis communication by highlighting the political and technological contexts for understanding organisational crises. Using China as a case, the study proposes a broader analytical framework that investigates the societal contexts’ impact on crisis communication from political and technological domains. The analytical framework includes, first, the examination of the authoritarian regime with a divided power structure as the political context in China. Assessing political ideology, political structure, and political history as political contexts allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of political contexts on crisis communication temporally and structurally; second, the investigation of internet users’ voices in a government-regulated commercial space as the technological context in China. Online participation and internet language thereby emerge as prominent parts of the technological contexts for understanding crisis communication in China. The implications and directions of research are also discussed.
‘Let me move to another level’: career advancement desires and opportunities for community health nurses in Ghana
Authors: Bellerose Meghan , Awoonor-Williams Koku , Alva Soumya , Magalona Sophia , Sacks Emma
Published: July 2021

Career advancement and continued education are critical components of health worker motivation and retention. Continuous advancement also builds health system capacity by ensuring that leaders are those with experience and strong performance records. To understand more about the satisfaction, desires, and career opportunities available to community health nurses (CHNs) in Ghana, we conducted 29 in-depth interviews and four focus group discussions across five predominantly rural districts. Interview transcripts and summary notes were coded in NVivo based on pre-defined and emergent codes using thematic content analysis. Frustration with existing opportunities for career advancement and continued education emerged as key themes. Overall, the CHNs desired greater opportunities for career development, as most aspired to return to school to pursue higher-level health positions. While workshops were available to improve CHNs knowledge and skills, they were infrequent and irregular. CHNs wanted greater recognition for their work experience in the form of respect from leaders within the Ghana Health System and credit towards future degree programs. CHNs are part of a rapidly expanding cadre of salaried community-based workers in sub-Saharan Africa, and information about their experiences and needs can be used to shape future health policy and program planning.
Traumatic elbow dislocation in a patient with congenital radioulnar synostosis
Authors: Barclay Alexander , Esfandiari Alireza , Nixon Matthew
Published: July 2021

This case report describes a traumatic elbow dislocation in a patient with congenital radioulnar synostosis. It discusses the difficulties and potential complications of managing this complicated injury. Congenital radioulnar synostosis (CRUS) is a rare elbow pathology that is characterised by the abnormal fusion of the proximal radius and ulna bones at the elbow. This case report describes a traumatic posterior elbow dislocation in a 30 year old patient with CRUS. Patients with CRUS are more susceptible to elbow dislocation due to laxity of stabilising ligaments and increased stiffness of the forearm leading to greater force transfer to the elbow. CRUS should be considered in patients with difficult to reduce elbow dislocations.
Oral vinorelbine and cisplatin as first-line therapy for advanced squamous NSCLC patients: a prospective randomized international phase II study (NAVoTrial 03)
Authors: Grossi Francesco , Jaśkiewicz Piotr , Ferreira Marion , Czyżewicz Grzegorz , Kowalski Dariusz , Ciuffreda Libero , Garcia-Gomez Ramon , Caruso Salvatore , Bosch-Barrera Joaquim , Gautier Stéphanie , Ta Thanh Minh Christine , Henriet Sébastien , de Castro Gilberto
Published: July 2021

Objective:

The study investigated the efficacy and safety of oral vinorelbine-cisplatin (OV-CDDP) and gemcitabine-cisplatin (GEM-CDDP) in patients with squamous non-small cell lung cancer (sq-NSCLC).

Patients and methods:

This was an open-label, prospective, multicenter, international phase II study that enrolled untreated patients with advanced sq-NSCLC. Patients were randomized to receive 3-week cycles of either 60–80 mg/m2 OV days 1 and 8 in combination with 80 mg/m2 CDDP day 1 (arm A) or 1250 mg/m2 GEM days 1 and 8 in combination with 75 mg/m2 CDDP day 1 (arm B). After four cycles, patients without disease progression continued maintenance dose of OV or GEM until progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary objective was disease control rate (DCR). Secondary objectives included progression-free survival (PFS), time to treatment failure (TTF), overall survival (OS), safety, and quality of life (QoL).

Results:

A total of 114 patients with sq-NSCLC were randomized, and 113 were treated (57 in arm A and 56 in arm B). DCR was high in both arms: 73.7% (95%CI: 62.4–100.0) in arm A and 75.0% (95%CI: 63.7–100.0) in arm B. Median PFS and TTF were similar in arm A and B 4.2 and 2.8 months, and 4.3 and 3.1 months, respectively. Even though the difference was not significant, the OS was 10.2 for arm A and 8.4 months for arm B. The safety profiles were consistent with the current knowledge of adverse events. QoL results revealed an improvement in patients under OV treatment.

Conclusion:

The OV-CDDP combination showed comparable efficacy to GEM-CDDP with acceptable safety profile and enhanced patients’ QoL.

Trial registration:

The study was registered under EudraCT number 2012-003531-40.
Teaching Futures Studies From Disciplinary And Student Perspectives
Authors: Klay William E. , Campos Portia D.
Published: July 2021

Concepts from the Enlightenment and the historical origins of modern social sciences are used to discuss how futures studies deserves recognition as a social science in its own right and as a needed component of the curricula of other disciplines as well, especially in public administration. In focus groups, undergraduate students who had just completed a course in futures studies identified what they would emphasize if they become teachers of our field. They would emphasize critical thinking, individual relevance and empowerment, interrelatedness, technology as a two-sided agent of change, a risk management approach to understanding crises and opportunities, past efforts to anticipate possible futures, developing scenarios using the Societal, Technological, Economic, Environmental, and Political framework, environmental scanning and backcasting, and especially the importance of Enlightenment values in framing preferred futures. As teachers, they would use technology extensively but were sharply divided on whether futures studies should be taught in an online only format.
The Association of Matrix Metalloproteinases With Acute Kidney Injury Following CPB-Supported Cardiac Surgery
Authors: McNair Erick D. , Bezaire Jennifer , Moser Michael , Mondal Prosanta , Conacher Josie , Franczak Aleksandra , Sawicki Greg , Reid David , Khani-Hanjani Abass
Published: July 2021

Background:

Cardiac surgery–associated acute kidney injury (AKI) is an adverse outcome that increases morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing cardiac surgical procedures. To date, the use of serum creatinine levels as an early indicator of AKI has limitations because of its slow rise and poor predictive accuracy for renal injury. This delay in diagnosis may lead to prolonged initiation in treatment and increased risk for adverse outcomes.

Objective:

This pilot study explores serum and urine matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)-2 and MMP-9 and their association, and potentially earlier detection of AKI in patients following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB)–supported cardiac surgery. We hypothesize that increased activity of serum and urine levels MMP-2 and/ or MMP-9 are associated with AKI. Furthermore, MMP-2 and/ or MMP-9 may provide earlier identification of AKI as compared with serum levels of creatinine.

Methods:

During the study period, there were 150 CPB-supported surgeries, 21 of which developed AKI according to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes criteria. We then selected a sample of 21 matched cases from those patients who went through the surgery without developing AKI. Primary outcomes were the measurement via gel zymography of the serum and urine activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 drawn at the following intervals: pre-CPB; 10-minute post-CPB; and 4-hour post-CPB time points. Secondary variables were the measurement of serum creatinine, intensive care unit (ICU) fluid balance, and length of ICU stay.

Results:

At the 10-minute and 4-hour post-CPB time points, the serum MMP-2 activity of AKI patients were significantly higher as compared with non-AKI patients ( P < .001 and P = .004), respectively. Similarly, at the 10-minute and 4-hour post-CPB time points, the serum MMP-9 activity of AKI patients was significantly higher as compared with non-AKI patients ( P = .001 and P = .014), respectively. The activity of urine MMP-2 and MMP-9 of AKI patients was significantly higher as compared with non-AKI patients at all 3 time points ( P = .004, P < .001, P < .001), respectively.

Conclusion:

Although the pilot study may have limitations, it has demonstrated that the serum and urine levels of activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 are associated with the clinical endpoint of AKI and appear to have earlier rising levels as compared with those of serum creatinine. Furthermore, in depth, exploration is underway with a larger sample size to attempt validation of the analytical performance and reproducibility of the assay for MMP-2 and MMP-9 to aid in earlier diagnosis of AKI following CPB-supported cardiac surgery.
Effects of Noise Pollution on Residential Property Value in Enugu Urban, Nigeria
Authors: Egbenta Idu R. , Uchegbu Smart N. , Ubani Ejike , Akalemeaku Okwuchi Juliet
Published: July 2021

One of the persistent environmental issues today is high noise levels in residential areas especially in the developing countries. There are several unorganized informal sector activities such as recreational, road traffic, household and religious activities, operation of power generating sets, incompatible uses in space among others that are the sources of noise pollution in residential areas. A number of empirical studies have been carried out on the impact of noise on residential property values. However, one finds it very difficult to ascertain whether noise pollution affects residential property value in Enugu Urban. The aim of this study is to ascertain whether noise pollution has significant influence on residential rental values in the study area. The study has discovered that residential properties affected by noise pollution have lower rental value compared to those unaffected by 3.1% of its rental value. The study has provided some insight to guide property buyers or users, investors, property managers, and valuers as regards property transactions. The study has suggested that property value spatial index of noise pollution in the study area can be built and use as a guide for urban management strategy to achieve sustainable development.
Impact of Entrepreneurship Extracurricular Activities and Inspiration on Entrepreneurial Intention: Mediator and Moderator Effect
Authors: Nguyen Thuy Thu , Nguyen Linh Thi Phuong , Phan Hoa Thi Thanh , Vu Anh Trong
Published: July 2021

This empirical study proposed a comprehensive model testing the direct and indirect impacts of entrepreneurship extracurricular activities and entrepreneurship inspiration on students’ entrepreneurial intention. With the sample consisting of 640 students from 11 universities in Vietnam, the study used structural equation modeling analysis approach. The results revealed that entrepreneurship extracurricular activities and entrepreneurship inspiration are significantly related to students’ entrepreneurial intention, and entrepreneurship self-efficacy partially mediates these relations. The impact of entrepreneurship education on entrepreneurial intention differs across the field of study. Technical students generally get more benefits from entrepreneurship educational activities than business and economics students do. The research findings recommended some implications for fostering graduates’ entrepreneurship in emerging countries.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship Websites
Authors: Pagan-Rosado Robert , Hurdle Mark Friedrich , Jimenez Claudia , Cheville Andrea , Rosario-Concepcion Raul A
Published: July 2021

Objective:

To evaluate the comprehensiveness of primary care sports medicine fellowship websites and identify potential areas of improvement.

Design:

Cross-sectional analysis of fellowship program websites using quantitative and descriptive statistics.

Setting:

Internet.

Participants:

A total of 192 primary care sports medicine fellowship websites listed on the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) website.

Independent Variables:

Program Specialty and Program Region.

Main Outcome Measures:

The presence or absence of 19 predetermined criteria on primary care sports medicine fellowship websites.

Results:

The average number of criteria that was included on each website was 9.8 (SD 3.5) (51.6%) of the possible 19. Programs had as few as 2 of the 19 (10.5%) criteria included on their website, and others had as many as 17 of the 19 (89.4%) criteria. Of the 192 primary care sports medicine fellowships, only 5 (2.6%) addressed at least 80% of the 19 different criteria. No primary care sports medicine fellowship website included all 19 criteria.

Conclusions:

Most primary care sports medicine fellowship websites do not offer comprehensive information about their programs for prospective applicants.
ManyClasses 1: Assessing the Generalizable Effect of Immediate Feedback Versus Delayed Feedback Across Many College Classes
Authors: Fyfe Emily R. , de Leeuw Joshua R. , Carvalho Paulo F. , Goldstone Robert L. , Sherman Janelle , Admiraal David , Alford Laura K. , Bonner Alison , Brassil Chad E. , Brooks Christopher A. , Carbonetto Tracey , Chang Sau Hou , Cruz Laura , Czymoniewicz-Klippel Melina , Daniel Frances , Driessen Michelle , Habashy Noel , Hanson-Bradley Carrie L. , Hirt Edward R. , Carbonell Virginia Hojas , Jackson Daniel K. , Jones Shay , Keagy Jennifer L. , Keith Brandi , Malmquist Sarah J. , McQuarrie Barry , Metzger Kelsey J. , Min Maung K. , Patil Sameer , Patrick Ryan S. , Pelaprat Etienne , Petrunich-Rutherford Maureen L. , Porter Meghan R. , Prescott Kristina , Reck Cathrine , Renner Terri , Robbins Eric , Smith Adam R. , Stuczynski Phil , Thompson Jaye , Tsotakos Nikolaos , Turk Judith K. , Unruh Kyle , Webb Jennifer D. , Whitehead Stephanie N. , Wisniewski Elaine C. , Zhang Ke Anne , Motz Benjamin A.
Published: July 2021

Psychology researchers have long attempted to identify educational practices that improve student learning. However, experimental research on these practices is often conducted in laboratory contexts or in a single course, which threatens the external validity of the results. In this article, we establish an experimental paradigm for evaluating the benefits of recommended practices across a variety of authentic educational contexts—a model we call ManyClasses. The core feature is that researchers examine the same research question and measure the same experimental effect across many classes spanning a range of topics, institutions, teacher implementations, and student populations. We report the first ManyClasses study, in which we examined how the timing of feedback on class assignments, either immediate or delayed by a few days, affected subsequent performance on class assessments. Across 38 classes, the overall estimate for the effect of feedback timing was 0.002 (95% highest density interval = [−0.05, 0.05]), which indicates that there was no effect of immediate feedback compared with delayed feedback on student learning that generalizes across classes. Furthermore, there were no credibly nonzero effects for 40 preregistered moderators related to class-level and student-level characteristics. Yet our results provide hints that in certain kinds of classes, which were undersampled in the current study, there may be modest advantages for delayed feedback. More broadly, these findings provide insights regarding the feasibility of conducting within-class randomized experiments across a range of naturally occurring learning environments.
Perceived Complexity of a Project’s Optimal Work Plan Influences Its Likelihood of Adoption by Project Managers
Authors: Brokman-Meltzer Mor , Perez Dikla , Gelbard Roy
Published: July 2021

Project managers commonly adopt suboptimal work plans, even when optimal plans are readily accessible. This research identifies a factor that elicits this seemingly irrational behavior: the perceived complexity of the optimal work plan, as reflected in the plan’s Gantt chart representation. Four controlled experiments show that among experienced project managers presented with a work plan explicitly stated to be optimal, those who view a low-complexity plan are more likely to adopt the plan compared with project managers who view a high-complexity plan. Work-related stress triggered by exposure to the work plan is shown to mediate the effect.
Continuous-infusion von Willebrand factor concentrate is effective for the management of acquired von Willebrand disease
Authors: Dane Kathryn E. , Lindsley John P. , Kickler Thomas , Streiff Michael B. , Moliterno Alison , Yui Jennifer , Naik Rakhi , Chaturvedi Shruti
Published: July 2021

Acquired von Willebrand disease (aVWD) is a rare disorder associated with a reduction in von Willebrand factor (VWF) activity, leading to increased bleeding risk. Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is the most common cause of lymphoproliferative disorder-associated aVWD and is caused by accelerated clearance of circulating VWF. Standard VWF replacement protocols for congenital VWD based on intermittent bolus dosing are typically less effective for aVWD because of antibody-mediated clearance. Intermittent bolus dosing of VWF concentrates often leads to inadequate peak response and profoundly shortened VWF half-life in aVWD. Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) has demonstrated efficacy in aVWD; however, treatment effect is delayed up to 4 days, limiting its efficacy in acutely bleeding patients. We report the successful use of continuous-infusion VWF concentrate (with or without concomitant IVIG) in 3 patients with MGUS-associated aVWD who had demonstrated an inadequate response to bolus dosing. VWF concentrate doses required in this cohort were higher than typical doses for bleeding treatment in congenital VWD. This report illustrates that continuous-infusion VWF concentrate administration with or without intravenous immunoglobulin rapidly achieves target ristocetin cofactor activity and provides adequate hemostasis in aVWD associated with immunoglobulin G MGUS.
2-O, 3-O desulfated heparin (ODSH) increases bacterial clearance and attenuates lung injury in cystic fibrosis by restoring HMGB1-compromised macrophage function
Authors: Wang Mao , Gauthier Alex G. , Kennedy Thomas P. , Wang Haichao , Velagapudi Uday Kiran , Talele Tanaji T. , Lin Mosi , Wu Jiaqi , Daley LeeAnne , Yang Xiaojing , Patel Vivek , Mun Sung Soo , Ashby Charles R. , Mantell Lin L.
Published: July 2021

Background

High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) is an alarmin following its release by immune cells upon cellular activation or stress. High levels of extracellular HMGB1 play a critical role in impairing the clearance of invading pulmonary pathogens and dying neutrophils in the injured lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). A heparin derivative, 2-O, 3-O desulfated heparin (ODSH), has been shown to inhibit HMGB1 release from a macrophage cell line and is efficacious in increasing bacterial clearance in a mouse model of pneumonia. Thus, we hypothesized that ODSH can attenuate the bacterial burden and inflammatory lung injury in CF and we conducted experiments to determine the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

We determined the effects of ODSH on lung injury produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infection in CF mice with the transmembrane conductance regulator gene knockout (CFTR−/−). Mice were given ODSH or normal saline intraperitoneally, followed by the determination of the bacterial load and lung injury in the airways and lung tissues. ODSH binding to HMGB1 was determined using surface plasmon resonance and in silico docking analysis of the interaction of the pentasaccharide form of ODSH with HMGB1.

Results

CF mice given 25 mg/kg i.p. of ODSH had significantly lower PA-induced lung injury compared to mice given vehicle alone. The CF mice infected with PA had decreased levels of nitric oxide (NO), increased levels of airway HMGB1 and HMGB1-impaired macrophage phagocytic function. ODSH partially attenuated the PA-induced alteration in the levels of NO and airway HMGB1 in CF mice. In addition, ODSH reversed HMGB1-impaired macrophage phagocytic function. These effects of ODSH subsequently decreased the bacterial burden in the CF lungs. In a surface plasmon resonance assay, ODSH interacted with HMGB1 with high affinity (KD = 3.89 × 10–8 M) and induced conformational changes that may decrease HMGB1’s binding to its membrane receptors, thus attenuating HMGB1-induced macrophage dysfunction.

Conclusions

The results suggest that ODSH can significantly decrease bacterial infection-induced lung injury in CF mice by decreasing both HMGB1-mediated impairment of macrophage function and the interaction of HMGB1 with membrane receptors. Thus, ODSH could represent a novel approach for treating CF and ARDS patients that have HMGB1-mediated lung injury.

Graphic abstract
A multi-country study using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for rapid identification of Burkholderia pseudomallei
Authors: Watthanaworawit Wanitda , Roberts Tamalee , Hopkins Jill , Gassiep Ian , Norton Robert , Robinson Matthew T. , Silisouk Joy , Sar Poda , Sao Sena , Amornchai Premjit , Limmathurotsakul Direk , Wuthiekanun Vanaporn , Nosten Francois , Simpson Andrew J. H. , Turner Paul , Ling Clare L.
Published: July 2021

Background

Burkholderia pseudomallei is the bacterial causative agent of melioidosis, a difficult disease to diagnose clinically with high mortality if not appropriately treated. Definitive diagnosis requires isolation and identification of the organism. With the increased adoption of MALDI-TOF MS for the identification of bacteria, we established a method for rapid identification of B. pseudomallei using the Vitek MS, a system that does not currently have B. pseudomallei in its in-vitro diagnostic database.

Results

A routine direct spotting method was employed to create spectra and SuperSpectra. An initial B. pseudomallei SuperSpectrum was created at Shoklo Malaria Research Unit (SMRU) from 17 reference isolates (46 spectra). When tested, this initial SMRU SuperSpectrum was able to identify 98.2 % (54/55) of Asian isolates, but just 46.7 % (35/75) of Australian isolates. Using spectra (430) from different reference and clinical isolates, two additional SMRU SuperSpectra were created. Using the combination of all SMRU SuperSpectra with seven existing SuperSpectra from Townsville, Australia 119 (100 %) Asian isolates and 31 (100 %) Australian isolates were correctly identified. In addition, no misidentifications were obtained when using these 11 SuperSpectra when tested with 34 isolates of other bacteria including the closely related species Burkholderia thailandensis and Burkholderia cepacia.

Conclusions

This study has established a method for identification of B. pseudomallei using Vitek MS, and highlights the impact of geographical differences between strains for identification using this technique.
Delivery of acetamiprid to tea leaves enabled by porous silica nanoparticles: efficiency, distribution and metabolism of acetamiprid in tea plants
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Yan Min , Zhou Jie , Song Wei , Xiao Yu , Cui Chuanjian , Gao Wanjun , Ke Fei , Zhu Jing , Gu Zi , Hou Ruyan
Published: July 2021

Background

Pesticide residue and its poor utilization remains problematic in agricultural development. To address the issue, a nano-pesticide has been developed by incorporating pesticide acetamiprid in porous silica nanoparticles.

Results

This nano-pesticide had an acetamiprid loading content of 354.01 mg g−1. Testing LC50 value against tea aphids of the commercial preparation was three times that of the nano-pesticide. In tea seedlings (Camellia sinensis L.), acetamiprid was transported upward from the stem to the young leaves. On day 30, the average retained concentrations in tea leaves treated with the commercial preparation were about 1.3 times of that in the nano-pesticide preparation. The residual concentrations of dimethyl-acetamiprid in leaves for plants treated with the commercial preparation were about 1.1 times of that in the nano-pesticide preparation. Untargeted metabolomics of by LC–MS on the young leaves of tea seedlings under nano-pesticide and commercial pesticide treatments showed significant numbers of differentially expressed metabolites (P < 0.05 and VIP > 1). Between the nano-pesticide treatment group and the commercial preparation treatment group there were 196 differentially expressed metabolites 2 h after treatment, 200 (7th day), 207 (21st day), and 201 (30th day) in negative ion mode, and 294 (2nd h), 356 (7th day), and 286 (30th day) in positive ion mode. Preliminary identification showed that the major differentially expressed metabolites were glutamic acid, salicylic acid, p-coumaric acid, ribonic acid, glutamine, naringenin diglucoside, sanguiin H4, PG (34:2) and epiafzelechin.

Conclusions

This work demonstrated that our nano-pesticide outperformed the conventional pesticide acetamiprid in terms of insecticidal activity and pesticide residue, and the absorption, transportation and metabolism of nano-pesticide in tea plant were different, which pave a new pathway for pest control in agricultural sector.

Graphical abstract