bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of kidney proteomes to identify biological pathways associated with vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice by tandem mass tag-labeled quantitative and parallel reaction monitoring phosphoproteomics
Authors: Yang Qiaoling , Yin Xuedong , Li Hongjing , Ding Lili , Sun Huajun , Yang Li , Li Zhiling
Published: June 2023

Vancomycin (VCM)-induced nephrotoxicity impedes its treatment applications. Thus, it is important to clarify the relevant mechanism. This study investigated phosphoprotein changes attributable to the VCM nephrotoxicity mechanisms. Biochemical, pathological and phosphoproteomic analyses based on C57BL/6 mice were performed to explore the mechanisms.VCM-treated mice showed increased levels of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, and signs of acute tubular necrotic lesions. Phosphoproteomic profiling identified 3025 differentially phosphorylated phosphopeptides between the model and control group. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis demonstrated that Molecular Function “oxidoreductase activity” and Cellular Component “peroxisome” were markedly enriched. KEGG pathway analysis identified an enrichment in peroxisome pathway and PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor) signaling pathways. Parallel reaction monitoring analysis revealed a significant downregulation of CAT, SOD-1, AGPS, DHRS4, and EHHADH at phosphorylation level by VCM. Notably, the phosphorylation of ACO, AMACR, and SCPX was downregulated by VCM, which are the fatty acid β-oxidation-related proteins involved in PPAR signaling pathways. The phosphorylated PEX5 involved in peroxisome biogenesis was upregulated by VCM. Collectively, these findings indicated that VCM-induced nephrotoxicity is closely associated with peroxisome pathway and PPAR signaling pathways. The current study provides important insight into the mechanisms of VCM nephrotoxicity and will aid in the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies against this nephropathy.
Protective effects of brain and muscle ARNT-like gene 1 on oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced human brain microvascular endothelial cell injury by alleviating ferroptosis
Authors: Yu Shui , Zeng Yijun , Ruan Chenbin , Bai Lei , Liang Zhang
Published: June 2023

Ferroptosis plays an important role in atherosclerotic cerebrovascular diseases. The brain and muscle ARNT-like gene 1 (BMAL1) is an important mediator in the progression of cerebrovascular diseases. However, whether BMAL1 regulates ferroptosis in atherosclerotic cerebrovascular diseases remains obscure. Here, human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) were exposed to oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) to imitate cerebrovascular atherosclerosis. It was found that ox-LDL treatment induced ferroptosis events and reduced BMAL1 expression in HBMECs, which could be reversed by ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1. Furthermore, BMAL1 overexpression markedly mitigated ox-LDL-induced ferroptosis events and cell damage. Moreover, BMAL1 overexpression significantly promoted nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression in HBMECs under ox-LDL conditions. And, Nrf2 silencing attenuated the protective effects of BMAL1 on ox-LDL-stimulated HBMEC damage and ferroptosis. Altogether, our findings delineate the cerebrovascular protective role of BMAL1/Nrf2 by antagonizing ferroptosis in response to ox-LDL stimulation and provide novel perspectives for therapeutic strategies for atherosclerotic cerebrovascular diseases.
Operationalising Strong Sustainability: Definitions, Methodologies and Outcomes
Authors: Özkaynak Begüm , Devine Pat , Rigby Dan
Published: June 2023

While acknowledging the absence of a single definition or theory of sustainability, this paper argues that a discussion of sustainability which refers only to definitions is pointless without an understanding of how the definitions are operationalised. In this context, the paper considers the operationalisation of strong sustainability.

The definitions and operationalisation of strong sustainability most closely associated with (i) neoclassical environmental economics and (ii) ecological economics are discussed and compared. This analysis raises questions about the extent to which ecological economics has been able to influence real-world decisions and policy. The paper ends by considering whether the economic and political power structure taken as given by ecological economics is compatible with its policy perspective.
Entrepreneurial actions in energy transition: A study of three local energy clusters in Poland
Authors: Afeltowicz Łukasz , Nawojczyk Maria , Tyrała Radosław
Published: June 2023

This article discusses the roles that various forms of entrepreneurial action (economic, social, political) play in the emergence of new socioeconomic fields during the process of energy transition. The article is based on the results of qualitative research conducted among actors involved in establishing microgrids in Poland. We analyze three cases that differ in terms of the dominant form of entrepreneurial action, the capital at play, and the state of the field. We assert that the development of local energy initiatives requires the interplay of all three forms of entrepreneurial action. All three are necessary for the newly established field to be resilient, economically optimized, and embedded in not only political and business networks but also in the community at large.
Can the National Health Policy 2017 Strengthen the National Health System and Improve the Health of the Indian Populace?
Authors: Dehury Ranjit Kumar , Samal Janmejaya , Raza Arif , Cautinho Shawnn , Behera Manas Ranjan , Dehury Parthsarathi
Published: June 2023

The union cabinet approved the National Health Policy (NHP) 2017 on 15 March 2017. After its initial draft stage, seeking opinions from different stakeholders for nearly 34 months, the NHP 2017 came to the public domain with its final version. The main objective of this version of the NHP is to implement the proposed National Health Assurance Plan, which has been one of the agendas of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government for the healthcare of the people. The main objective of this article is to critically appraise and discuss the scopes and limitations in accomplishing the targets set in the policy document. A critique of the targets has also been discussed, considering the historical evidence and experiences of achieving the same. In the end, suggestions and recommendations have also been suggested for improving the health system regarding NHP 2017. The article critically analyses NHP 2017 based on secondary and grey literature. Evidence from secondary literature has been juxtaposed to compare and contrast the difficulty in implementing the policy. Literature is obtained from electronically accessible search and indexing portals, such as Google, Google Scholar, Web of Sciences, Embase, PubMed, and PubMed Central by using the keywords like health policy, impact of health policy, human resources in health, health care information technology, hospitals, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, health insurance and public health. Considering the implementation challenges of the previous two NHPs, the current NHP 2017 should be relevant to the grassroots level nuances and should address not only the healthcare needs but also the human development indicators.
Sustentaculum tali in Chinese population: anatomy and clinical significance
Authors: Liao Li-Qing , Feng Zi-Yu , Yang Han , Li Yi-Kai
Published: June 2023

Background

Previous studies lacked adequate quantitative data on sustentaculum tali (ST), especially in Chinese population. The aims of this study are to explore the quantitative morphology of ST in dried bone specimens, and to discuss its implications related to ST screw fixation, talar articular facet variation, as well as subtalar coalitions.

Methods

A total of 965 dried intact calcanei from Chinese adult donors were evaluated. All linear parameters were measured by two observers with a digital sliding vernier caliper.

Results

Most parts of ST body can accommodate a commonly-used 4-mm-diameter screw, but the minimum height of anterior ST is only 4.02 mm. The shapes of the STs are slightly affected by left-right, subtalar facet, but the subtalar coalition may potentially increase the sizes of STs. The incidence of tarsal coalition is 14.09%. Among the osseous connection, there are 58.8% of type A articular surface and 76.5% of middle and posterior talar facet (MTF and PTF) involvement. ROC curve shows that subtalar coalition will be detected when ST length is greater than 16.815 mm.

Conclusions

Theoretically, all the STs can accommodate 4 mm diameter screw, but a 3.5 mm diameter screw is recommended to be placed in the middle or posterior of the small ST for safety. The shapes of the STs are greatly influenced by the subtalar coalition, while they are less affected by left-right, subtalar facet. The osseous connection is common in type A articular surface and always involved in the MTF and PTF. The cut-off value of the length of STs was confirmed as 16.815 mm for predicting subtalar coalition.
Metaphors in Career Development: Using ZMET to Explore How an Employment Initiative Changes NEETs’ Mental Models
Authors: Parola Giulia , Thaler Julia , Solivo Matteo
Published: June 2023

Noting the lack of in-depth insights into the role of emotions and the malleability of affective dispositions for career development, the current research adopts a single case study approach, involving an employment initiative, to elicit conscious and unconscious emotions and beliefs of participants who are not in employment, education, or training (NEETs). Using Zaltman metaphor elicitation technique (ZMET), which involves in-depth, semi-structured interviews and images, the authors determine that comfort emotions represent necessary conditions, acting as filters that alter mental representations of the world, evoke a process of perspective transformation, and ultimately induce new beliefs and individual emancipation. This research contributes to career development literature and redefines career helpers as agents of change who should recognize and harness emotions for assisting NEETs who must navigate complex, unique career environments.
Spring Ligament Reconstruction for Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity: Contemporary Review
Authors: Chien Bonnie Y. , Greisberg Justin K. , Arciero Emily
Published: June 2023

The spring ligament is one of the main stabilizers of the medial arch of the foot and the primary static supporter of the talonavicular joint. Attenuation or rupture of this ligament is thought to play a central role in the pathophysiology of progressive collapsing foot deformity. Traditional correction of flexible flatfoot consists of posterior tibial tendon augmentation along with various osteotomies or hindfoot fusions. Repair or reconstruction of the spring ligament has not been as widely pursued. In recent years, newer techniques have been explored and may improve outcomes of traditional procedures, or possibly entirely replace some osteotomies. Combined spring-deltoid ligament reconstruction is also gaining traction as a viable technique, particularly as the ankle begins to deform into valgus. This review summarizes the variety of nonanatomic and anatomic reconstruction techniques that have been described, including autologous tendon transfers, allografts, and synthetic augmentation. Although many have only been characterized in biomechanical cadaver studies, this article reviews preliminary clinical studies that have shown promising results. There is a need for more high-quality studies evaluating the clinical, radiographic, and patient-reported outcomes following spring ligament reconstruction.
Poisson’s ratio influence on structural dynamic properties of 3D printed bio-based sandwich with an anti-trichiral core
Authors: Hamrouni Anis , Rebiere Jean-Luc , El Mahi Abderrahim , Beyaoui Moez , Haddar Mohamed
Published: June 2023

The main interest of this study is to analyze the effect of Poisson’s ratio (negative for auxetic materials) on the dynamic behavior of anti-trichiral structures: an experimental and numerical study is proposed. Using three-dimensional printing technology, anti-trichiral structures (cores and sandwiches) with different geometric parameters were produced with a bio-based composite material. The material used was polylactic acid (PLA) with flax fibers. The structure geometry (anti-trichiral) is the main factor that has an influence in determining its auxetic behavior. In this study, we show the effect of the elementary cell size of the anti-trichiral structure on the auxetic behavior and its impact on the static and dynamic properties of the materials. Initially, experimental tensile tests were used to establish the static characteristics of all specimens, including Poisson’s ratio values. From these results concerning Poisson’s ratios, experimental vibration tests were also carried out to determine their dynamic properties and this is to understand the field of application of these structures and to analyze their behavior in practical use. To validate experimental results, finite element studies were carried out. In this study of the dynamic properties, we observe close agreement convergence between the results of the experimental tests and the numerical analysis.
Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy of English-Speaking Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder During a Verbal Fluency Task
Authors: Husain Syeda Fabeha , Chiang Soon Kiat , Vasu Aveline Ajalan , Goh Claire P. , McIntyre Roger S. , Tang Tong Boon , Tran Bach X. , Dang Trang H.T. , Nguyen Tham T. , Ho Roger C. , Ho Cyrus S.
Published: June 2023

Objective:

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) provides direct and quantitative assessment of cortical hemodynamic response. It has been used to identify neurophysiological alterations in medication-naïve adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Hence, this study aimed to distinguish both medication-naïve and medicated adults with ADHD from healthy controls (HC).

Method:

75 HCs, 75 medication-naïve, and 45 medicated patients took part in this study. fNIRS signals during a verbal fluency task (VFT) were acquired using a 52-channel system and relative oxy-hemoglobin changes in the prefrontal cortex were quantified.

Results:

Prefrontal cortex hemodynamic response was lower in patients than HCs (p ≤ ≤.001). Medication-naïve and medicated patients did not differ in hemodynamic response or symptom severity (p > .05). fNIRS measurements were not associated with any clinical variables (p > .05). 75.8% patients and 76% HCs were correctly classified using hemodynamic response.

Conclusion:

fNIRS may be a potential diagnostic tool for adult ADHD. These findings need to be replicated in larger validation studies.
A Multimodal Emotion Perspective on Social Media Influencer Marketing: The Effectiveness of Influencer Emotions, Network Size, and Branding on Consumer Brand Engagement Using Facial Expression and Linguistic Analysis
Authors: Holiday Steven , Hayes Jameson L. , Park Haseon , Lyu Yuanwei , Zhou Yang
Published: June 2023

Social media influencers rely on emotional connection to maintain and grow their followings and have value for brands. To date, however, no research has quantitatively examined the impact of emotion in the facial expressions and caption text that influencers use in their video posts on consumer engagement through likes, comments, and views of posts. Grounded in consumer brand engagement, psychological sense of community, and the behavior ecology view of facial displays, this study uses social media analytics, facial expression analysis, and computational linguistic analysis to assess the emotional substance of 402 video posts by prominent micro-, macro-, and mega-influencer mothers, known as InstaMoms, as exemplars of Instagram influencers. The study identifies that the amount of emotion used and specific discrete emotions have a meaningful influence on engagement, and both follower count and presence of branding saliently contribute to a more robust understanding of the relationship. Theoretical and practical implications are identified and discussed.
Polymer-coated paclitaxel-eluting stents for the treatment of stenosed native arteriovenous fistulas: Long-term results from the ELUDIA study
Authors: Katsanos Konstantinos , Ho Pei , Tang Tjun Yip , Vlachou Elina , Yap Charyl Jia Qi , Kitrou Panagiotis M , Karnabatidis Dimitrios
Published: June 2023

Background:

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is the preferred treatment of stenosed failing arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) but is hampered by increasing rates of vascular restenosis because of development of myointimal hyperplasia.

Methods:

This multicenter observational study of polymer-coated low-dose paclitaxel-eluting stents (ELUvia stents by Boston Scientific) in stenosed AVF undergoing hemoDIAlysis (ELUDIA) was jointly conducted in three tertiary hospitals from Greece and Singapore. Failure of AVF was defined according to K-DOQI criteria and significant fistula stenosis (>50%DS by visual estimate) was determined with subtraction angiography. Patients were considered for ELUVIA stent insertion based on significant elastic recoil following balloon angioplasty for the treatment of a single vascular stenosis within a native AVF. The primary outcome measure was sustained long-term patency of the treated lesion/fistula circuit defined as successful stent placement with resumption of uninterrupted hemodialysis and without significant vascular restenosis (50%DS threshold) or other secondary interventions during follow-up.

Results:

Some 23 patients received the ELUVIA paclitaxel-eluting stent (eight radiocephalic, 12 brachiocephalic, and three transposed brachiobasilic native AVFs). Mean AVF age at the time of failure was 33.9 ± 20.4 months. Treated lesions included 12 stenoses at the juxta-anastomotic segment, nine at the outflow veins, and two cephalic arch lesions with a mean diameter stenosis of 86 ± 8%. Median stent diameter and length used were 7 mm and 40 mm, respectively. After a median follow-up period of 20 months, some 18 stents out of 23 cases remained patent (cumulative rate 78.3%) without any clinical or imaging evidence of recurrent stenosis. Estimated primary patency of the ELUVIA stents was 80.6% and of the corresponding fistula circuit 65.1% at 2 years by Kaplan-Meier methods.

Conclusions:

This observational study has shown promising long-term results of polymer-coated paclitaxel-eluting stents for the treatment of failing arteriovenous fistulas. Large-scale controlled studies are necessary.
Management of Cover Crop Intercropping for Live Mulch on Plant Productivity and Growth Resources: A Review
Authors: Dzvene Admire R. , Tesfuhuney Weldemichael A. , Walker Sue , Ceronio Gert
Published: June 2023

Cover crops are a valuable tool for improving resources use, soil health, and productivity. However, the effects of intercropping cover crops as live mulches with cash crops can vary depending on the species, management practices, and environmental conditions. This study reviewed the literature on cover crop intercropping and identified key factors to consider for improved plant productivity and resources use when managing these cropping systems. Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar were used to search for literature on managing cover crop intercropping as live mulches. Research has shown that annual cover crops are typically used in annual field crop systems, while perennial cover crops are typically used in orchards and vineyards. The effects of intercropping annual or perennial cover crops in vineyards, orchards, and field crop systems can vary from positive to negative, depending on the climate, soil, management, and production system. Therefore, there is no one-size-fits-all management strategy. However, there are some key factors that should be considered when managing cover crops, such as: compatibility, intercropping time, planting density, and termination time. The benefits of appropriate cover crop management include: extended growing season, increased soil fertility, resource use optimization, and increased biomass productivity. Cover crop intercropping can be a successful way to improve resource use, soil health and productivity, but it is important to carefully consider the specific crop and management practices to ensure success. Therefore, future research should optimize cover crop intercropping time and planting density in maize-based rainwater harvesting systems on productivity and resource use.
Perception of Risk and Compliance With COVID-19 Safety Guidelines: A Cross-Sectional Survey Among Healthcare Workers in Ghana
Authors: Kayi Esinam Afi , Ottie-Boakye Doris , Ansa Gloria Akosua , Appiah-Agyekum Nana Nimo
Published: June 2023

Although healthcare professionals are on the “frontline” of providing effective and quality healthcare delivery, they face several occupational risks when giving care, particularly during a global health crisis. This study examines healthcare workers’ compliance with COVID-19 safety protocols and identifies factors associated with their perceived risk of COVID-19. Between October and December 2020, this cross-sectional survey utilized online and paper-type questionnaires in data collection. Non-probability sampling techniques were used in selecting clinical and non-clinical healthcare workers in various health facilities within 4 regions of Ghana. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with the perceived risk of COVID-19. The results showed that healthcare workers are highly compliant with hand hygiene practices and wearing PPE. The category of health professional, number of working years, type of health facility, region of work, frequency of COVID-19 test, and compliance with hand hygiene practices were significantly associated with healthcare workers’ perception of risk of COVID-19 at P < .05. Findings suggest that both individual and health system factors are significant in increasing the risk of COVID-19 among healthcare workers. Efforts at enforcing strict compliance with infection prevention should be implemented to protect all healthcare personnel.
A Tumor Suppressive Role of CYLD as a Novel Potential DUB of Aurora B in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Huang Yufan , Zhang Wei , Yu Zhihui , Su Hongkai , Zeng Bin , Piao Jinsong , Wang Jing , Wu Juan
Published: June 2023

Background:

Cervical cancer is a common leading cause of cancer related to women death worldwide. Cylindromatosis (CYLD) is known as an important tumor suppressor in various human cancers, and a deubiquitination enzyme (DUB) as well. Previously, we identified Skp2 as an E3 ligase of Aurora B ubiquitination, but the DUB of Aurora B still remains unknown.

Methods:

Aurora B ubiquitination site is identified through in vivo ubiquitination assay. Activity of Aurora B and CENPA was detected by immunoblotting (IB) and immunofluorescence (IF) assay. Protein-to-protein interaction was investigated by immunoprecipitation (IP). Cell chromosome dynamics was monitored by live-cell time-lapse Imaging. Cancer cell proliferation, colony formation, apoptosis, and cell invasion and migration assays were also performed. Protein level was checked by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining in clinical cervical cancer samples.

Results:

We identified Lysine 115 (K115) as the main Aurora B ubiquitination site for Skp2. We could also detect an interaction of Aurora B with the DUB CYLD. We found that CYLD promoted deubiquitination of Aurora B, and regulated Aurora B activity and function as well. Compared with control, we found it took more time for the cells to finish cell mitosis with CYLD over-expression. Furthermore, we found that CYLD deficiency promoted cervical cancer cell proliferation, colony formation, cell migration and invasion, and inhibited apoptosis instead, whereas it is just opposite with CYLD over-expression. In clinical cervical cancer samples, we showed a negative correlation of CYLD expression with Aurora B activation and histological cancer cell invasion. Furthermore, there was less CYLD abundance and higher Aurora B activity in advanced cancer samples compared with early stage.

Conclusions:

Our findings uncover CYLD as a novel potential DUB of Aurora B, which inhibits Aurora B activation and its subsequent function in cell mitosis, and also provide more evidence for its tumor suppressor function in cervical cancer.
Eating disorder symptoms among transgender and gender diverse youth
Authors: Kramer Rachel , Aarnio-Peterson Claire M , Conard Lee Ann , Lenz Katrina R , Matthews Abigail
Published: June 2023

Compared to cisgender peers, transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth and adults report elevated eating disorder (ED) symptoms likely related to gender dysphoria and attempts to modify their bodies accordingly. Less is known about the impact on gender-affirming care and ED symptoms. This study aimed to expand on extant research and describe ED symptoms in TGD youth seeking gender-affirming care while exploring potential associations between gender-affirming hormone use and ED symptoms. A total of 251 TGD youth completed the Eating Disorders Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) as part of routine clinical care. ANCOVAs and negative binomial regressions examined differences in ED symptoms among transgender females (identifying as female but assigned male at birth) and transgender males (identifying as male but assigned female at birth). ED severity was not significantly different among transgender females versus transgender males, ( p = .09), or associated with gender-affirming hormone use ( p = .07). Transgender females receiving gender-affirming hormones reported a greater proportion of objective binge eating episodes compared to those who were not ( p = .03). Over a quarter of TGD youth reported engagement in ED behaviors suggesting assessment and intervention related to ED behaviors among TGD youth is imperative since adolescence is a particularly vulnerable period for adolescents and engagement in ED behaviors could lead to full ED development and medical risk.
A compact adjustable hydraulic damper with symmetric high load behavior enabled by selective laser melting
Authors: Heyden Emil , Hofmann Urs , Meboldt Mirko , Krause Dieter
Published: June 2023

This publication addresses the development of a compact, adjustable hydraulic damper that meets the requirements for vibration testing. Dampers from the literature do not meet all the requirements, such as compact design, vibration resistance, high strength, broadly adjustable and dominantly symmetrical damping, and modularity. Additive manufacturing (AM) enables the design of integral and compact systems that can compensate for several disadvantages of known damping systems. Three stages of development are presented, from a proof of concept to a prototype manufactured by Stereolithography (SLA) as Vat Photopolymerization (VPP-UVL/P) to a ready-to-use hydraulic damper manufactured by Selective Laser Melting (SLM) as Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB/M). The final additively manufactured damper is much more compact due to its geometric freedom in the design phase and requires a much smaller number of components. The damper has been tested over a wide range of operating conditions and has proven its reliable damping performance even under high loads. This performance makes it suitable for many other systems subject to vibration.
Deep learning-based obstacle-avoiding autonomous UAVs with fiducial marker-based localization for structural health monitoring
Authors: Waqas Ali , Kang Dongho , Cha Young-Jin
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a framework for obstacle-avoiding autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems with a new obstacle avoidance method (OAM) and localization method for autonomous UAVs for structural health monitoring (SHM) in GPS-denied areas. There are high possibilities of obstacles in the planned trajectory of autonomous UAVs used for monitoring purposes. A traditional UAV localization method with an ultrasonic beacon is limited to the scope of the monitoring and vulnerable to both depleted battery and environmental electromagnetic fields. To overcome these critical problems, a deep learning-based OAM with the integration of You Only Look Once version 3 (YOLOv3) and a fiducial marker-based UAV localization method are proposed. These new obstacle avoidance and localization methods are integrated with a real-time damage segmentation method as an autonomous UAV system for SHM. In indoor testing and outdoor tests in a large parking structure, the proposed methods showed superior performances in obstacle avoidance and UAV localization compared to traditional approaches.
The conservatism objection to educating for the virtues of citizenship
Authors: Sachs-Cobbe Benjamin
Published: June 2023

Since the 1990s, education for the virtues of citizenship has become widespread in the United States and United Kingdom. It is intended to inculcate virtues such as courtesy, respect and truthfulness in school children. This essay defends education for the virtues of citizenship against two criticisms. According to the first, which might be called the ‘ status quo bias’ criticism, inculcating such virtues is a recipe for stasis. According to the second, which might be called the ‘individualism’ criticism, EVC sends the message that the citizen herself is primarily responsible for her fate. The authors who raise these two criticisms tend to link EVC with ‘conservatism’ or one of its cognate terms. If education for the virtues of citizenship really is conservative, this raises the worry that education for the virtues of citizenship is partisan, which would surely render it morally objectionable. In this paper, I distinguish big-C Conservatism from small-c conservatism, and interpret the education for the virtues of citizenship critics as contending that education for the virtues of citizenship is Conservative (i.e. aligned with the political philosophies of right-leaning parties) in virtue of being individualistic, and conservative in virtue of being status quo biased. Against the individualism criticism, I point out that the strand of conservatism of which economists like Hayek and Friedman are the standard-bearers is anti-individualistic in virtue of holding that we need good economic policy to make up for the fact that we cannot count on individual economic actors to exercise sound moral judgement, and that the strand of conservatism inspired by commentators like Burke, Nisbet and Scruton is anti-individualistic in virtue of its emphasis on community. Hence, the inference from individualism to Conservatism doesn’t go through. Against the status quo bias criticism, I contend that it is unpredictable who will benefit from citizens being resistant to change. Hence, while it may be right to label such resistance ‘conservative’, such conservatism is not partisan.
In Vitro Studies on Hemodynamics of Type B Aortic Dissection: Accuracy and Reliability
Authors: Wu Mingwei , Liu Li , Xiong Jiang
Published: June 2023

Type B aortic dissection (TBAD) is associated with high mortality. Multiple in vitro models and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations have been used to mimic the hemodynamic characteristics of TBAD to inform more effective therapeutic strategies. However, the results of these experiments are rarely used in clinical practice due to concerns about their accuracy and reliability. The development of 4-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (4D-MRI) allows to verify the accuracy of the results of in vitro models and CFD simulations. This review provides an overview of the strengths, limitations, and accuracy of in vitro models, CFD simulations, and in vivo 4D flow MRI for the study of TBAD hemodynamics.

Clinical Impact

1. Hemodynamic of TBAD is important to improve the long-term outcome of TEVAR. 2. This review provides an overview of the in-vitro for the hemodynamic study of TBAD. 3. The accuracy and validity of in-vitro TBAD experiments should be further studied.
Synthesis and anti-leukemia activity of phorbol 13,20-diesters and phorbol 12,13,20-triesters
Authors: Wang Yan , Shan Yu , Feng Rui , Wang Siyu , Li Linwei , Xu Shu , Chen Yu , Feng Xu , Luo Jinyue , Liu Fei
Published: June 2023

Phorbol esters and their derivatives, such as TPA, have been reported as potential natural antitumor products, with some derivatives entering clinical research for leukemia treatment. In this study, 16 phorbol derivatives were synthesized from phorbol, and their anti-leukemia activity against Jurkat, HL-60, and K562 were tested. The results showed that several derivatives had anti-leukemia activity, with 5B demonstrating the strongest cytotoxic activity against the K562 cell line (IC50 = 0.24 ± 0.04 μM). Based on the IC50 values, a structure-activity relationship was established. When the substituent contained an aromatic group, phorbol derivatives esterified with long-chain organic acids at three reactive hydroxyl groups (C12-OH, C13-OH, and C20-OH) had better activity. When aryl groups were absent from the substituent groups, phorbol derivatives esterified with short-chain organic acids at two hydroxyl groups had better activity. Derivatives esterified with heterocyclic acids, either tri-substituted or di-substituted, showed a significant decrease in cytotoxicity. The mechanism of anti-leukemia activity was explored through flow cytometry, which indicated that phorbol esters inhibited the growth of leukemia cells by inducing apoptosis, leading to cell death. Molecular docking data of compound 5B docking to PKC δC1B suggested that substituent groups should not be too large, and caution should be taken when substituting C20-OH. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into the design of more effective phorbol esters as anti-leukemia agents, but further research is needed to confirm their safety and efficacy in clinical settings.
From growth obsession to ecological promotion: The discursive construction of party image in Chinese political discourse on ecological civilization
Authors: Wang Xiao , Zhao Xiufeng
Published: June 2023

The traditional definition of party image as being distinct, fixed, and receiver-determined, has been replaced by the understanding that party image is invested with more dynamic and complex features and is dialectically constructed by discourse to influence public perceptions. By adopting Van Dijk’s socio-cognitive model of critical discourse analysis, this study explores party images and how they are discursively constructed in CPC’s political discourse on ecological civilization. The discourse analysis reveals that five images have prominently been constructed: the goal-setter of future blueprints, lesson-taker of past development pattern, the coordinator of ecology and economy, the determined fighter against environmental disruption, and the systematic governor of ecological path. They are constructed through varying linguistic devices such as recontextualization, high-frequency repetition, and conceptual metaphors. The images and their construction are born out of the social cognition, the outcome of political system, changes of historical conditions, economic status, and cultural model, among which the emerging Chinese ideology of ‘moderate green’, and the consistent ideologies man is an integral part of nature (天人合一, tian ren he yi), Doctrine of the Mean (中庸之道, zhongyong zhidao), people-centeredness, and collectivism play a dominant role. This study helps find the fluidity of party images.
Type 1 diabetes with an eating disorder
Authors: Hibberd Owen , Corso Ellena , Karmarkar Sejal , George Tara
Published: June 2023

Type 1 diabetes with an eating disorder (T1DE) is common, and often unrecognised, in young people with diabetes. In general practice, this can be challenging to identify, and unfortunately patients with T1DE are at a greater risk of serious psychiatric and diabetic complications. A considered and detailed assessment is required to recognise this condition and to provide holistic care for patients and their families. This article, based upon a clinical case scenario, will highlight how the role of primary care is crucial to the early recognition, management, referral, and continuing support of young people with T1DE and their families.
Application of the Childbirth Supporter Study to Advance the Birth Unit Design Spatial Evaluation Tool
Authors: Harte J. Davis , Sheehan Athena , Stewart Susan , Foureur Maralyn
Published: June 2023

Objective:

Translational research to advance design criteria and apply the Childbirth Supporter Study (CSS) findings to practice.

Background:

The physical design of birth environments has not undergone substantial improvements in layout or ambiance since the initial move to hospitals. Cooperative, continuously present childbirth supporters are beneficial and are an expectation for most modern birth practices, yet the built environment does not offer support for the supporter.

Methods:

To advance design criteria, we use a comparative case study approach to create translational findings. Specifically, CSS findings were used as indicators to advance the Birth Unit Design Spatial Evaluation Tool (BUDSET) design characteristics in pursuit of better support for childbirth supporters in the built hospital birth environment.

Results:

This comparative case study provides eight new BUDSET design domain suggestions to benefit the supporter-woman dyad, and subsequently the baby and care providers.

Conclusions:

Research-informed design imperatives are needed to guide the inclusion of childbirth supporters as both a supporter and as an individual in the birth space. Increased understanding of relationships between specific design features and childbirth supporters’ experiences and reactions are provided. Suggestions to enhance the applicability of the BUDSET for birth unit design facility development are made, specifically ones that will better accommodate childbirth supporters.
SP7 gene silencing dampens bone marrow stromal cell hypertrophy, but it also dampens chondrogenesis
Authors: Franco Rose Ann G , McKenna Eamonn , Robey Pamela G , Crawford Ross W , Doran Michael R , Futrega Kathryn
Published: June 2023

For bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) to be useful in cartilage repair their propensity for hypertrophic differentiation must be overcome. A single day of TGF-β1 stimulation activates intrinsic signaling cascades in BMSCs which subsequently drives both chondrogenic and hypertrophic differentiation. TGF-β1 stimulation upregulates SP7, a transcription factor known to contribute to hypertrophic differentiation, and SP7 remains upregulated even if TGF-β1 is subsequently withdrawn from the chondrogenic induction medium. Herein, we stably transduced BMSCs to express an shRNA designed to silence SP7, and assess the capacity of SP7 silencing to mitigate hypertrophy. SP7 silencing dampened both hypertrophic and chondrogenic differentiation processes, resulting in diminished microtissue size, impaired glycosaminoglycan production and reduced chondrogenic and hypertrophic gene expression. Thus, while hypertrophic features were dampened by SP7 silencing, chondrogenic differentation was also compromised. We further investigated the role of SP7 in monolayer osteogenic and adipogenic cultures, finding that SP7 silencing dampened characteristic mineralization and lipid vacuole formation, respectively. Overall, SP7 silencing affects the trilineage differentiation of BMSCs, but is insufficient to decouple BMSC hypertrophy from chondrogenesis. These data highlight the challenge of promoting BMSC chondrogenesis whilst simultaneously reducing hypertrophy in cartilage tissue engineering strategies.
Low-dose ketamine infusions for chronic pain management: Does this qualify as evidence-based practice?
Authors: Griffiths Harry M
Published: June 2023

Chronic pain is becoming increasingly prevalent and burdensome both worldwide and in the United Kingdom. Due to the complexity of chronic pain and the therapeutic challenge associated, management is often difficult and requires multidisciplinary care encompassing a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. Conventional analgesic treatments, such as opioids and anticonvulsants, are effective in less than half of chronic pain sufferers and are typically limited to short-term use to prevent complications associated with long-term use such as tolerance and dependence. Consequently, research and clinical interest in alternative management options for chronic pain have increased in recent years, with ketamine being one example under investigation. However, since ketamine has been licensed as an anaesthetic for decades, it has bypassed the traditional scrutinous drug development sequence that is typically seen for therapeutics marketed for pain. As such, data supporting the unlicensed administration of ketamine for chronic pain management is lacking and is being outpaced by the rates of off-label use in pain clinics. Recent limited evidence suggests that ketamine, when given as an intravenous infusion in subanaesthetic doses for refractory pain patients, may provide modest analgesic effects in nearly all aetiologies of chronic pain, with side effects common but typically mild. However, there are concerns over the safety of this practice due to the paucity of robust supportive evidence and the accompanying lack of clinical guidelines or standardised protocols. This review shall summarise the literature examining the use of subanaesthetic-dose ketamine infusions for chronic pain to comment on the current level of evidence, with limitations of existing research and future recommendations discussed.
Evaluating the pediatric mental health care continuum at an American health system
Authors: Thariath Joshua , Salhi Rama A. , Kamdar Neil , Seiler Kristian , Greenwood-Ericksen Margaret , Nham Wilson , Simpson Kaitlyn , Peterson Timothy , Abir Mahshid
Published: June 2023

Objective:

To describe trends in the pediatric mental health care continuum and identify potential gaps in care coordination.

Methods:

We used electronic medical record data from October 2016 to September 2019 to characterize the prevalence of mental health issues in the pediatric population at a large American health system. This was a single institution case study. From the electronic medical record data, primary mental health discharge and readmission diagnoses were identified using International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9-CM, ICD-10-CM) codes. The electronic medical record was queried for mental health-specific diagnoses as defined by International Classification of Diseases classification, analysis of which was facilitated by the fact that only 176 mental health codes were billed for. Additionally, prevalence of care navigation encounters was assessed through electronic medical record query, as care navigation encounters are specifically coded. These encounter data was then segmented by care delivery setting.

Results:

Major depressive disorder and other mood disorders comprised 49.6% and 89.4% of diagnoses in the emergency department and inpatient settings respectively compared to 9.0% of ambulatory care diagnoses and were among top reasons for readmission. Additionally, only 1% of all ambulatory care encounters had a care navigation component, whereas 86% of care navigation encounters were for mental health-associated reasons.

Conclusions:

Major depressive disorder and other mood disorders were more common diagnoses in the emergency department and inpatient settings, which could signal gaps in care coordination. Bridging potential gaps in care coordination could reduce emergency department and inpatient utilization through increasing ambulatory care navigation resources, improving training, and restructuring financial incentives to facilitate ambulatory care diagnosis and management of major depressive disorder and mood disorders. Furthermore, health systems can use our descriptive analytic approach to serve as a reasonable measure of the current state of pediatric mental health care in their own patient population.
Vesiculobullous eosinophilic annular erythema: A case report
Authors: Lachance Madeleine , Vallée Sheila , Gagné Éric
Published: June 2023

Eosinophilic annular erythema is a rare eosinophilic dermatosis, characterized by arcuate erythematous urticarial plaques of unclear etiology. Vesiculobullous forms are even rarer, with only few cases described in the English literature. We report a case of vesiculobullous eosinophilic annular erythema with extensive cutaneous involvement poorly responsive to prednisone but showing complete remission with dapsone.
Three cases of heavy menstrual bleeding with uniform thickening of the junctional zone endometrium
Authors: Matsushima Takashi , Suzuki Shunji
Published: June 2023

Heavy menstrual bleeding is a type of abnormal uterine bleeding. Abnormal uterine bleeding includes the poorly characterized “not otherwise classified” category. Here, we report three abnormal uterine bleeding-not otherwise classified cases with uniform thickening of the junctional zone endometrium. Case 1: A 33-year-old nullipara with heavy menstrual bleeding presented with severe anemia (hemoglobin: 4.7 g/dL) and an 8.4-mm junctional zone endometrium on magnetic resonance imaging. Her condition improved with iron and low-dose estradiol-progestins. Case 2: A 36-year-old nulligravida had heavy menstrual bleeding, anemia (hemoglobin: 9.5 g/dL), and a 9.4-mm junctional zone endometrium; her anemia improved with iron supplementation. Case 3: A 39-year-old multipara had heavy menstrual bleeding, anemia (hemoglobin: 9.6 g/dL), and a 12.3-mm junctional zone endometrium, and was managed with a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system. Pelvic examination, transvaginal sonography, and uterine size on magnetic resonance imaging were normal in all cases. In those without uterine abnormalities, uniform thickening of the junctional zone endometrium (⩾8 mm) may trigger heavy menstrual bleeding; hence, magnetic resonance imaging may be warranted in abnormal uterine bleeding-not otherwise classified cases.
Emotional activation in video conferences equals that in in person meetings
Authors: Jerkku Michelle , Nordin Jonas , Kaiser Niclas
Published: June 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to increase our understanding of VCPs’ impact on the therapeutic factor emotion processing by investigating possible differences in emotional activation during autobiographical recall in VCPs and in person.

Methods

We recruited 30 adult participants aged 21–53 ( M = 26.50, SD = 6.68) with no current psychiatric diagnoses to join a controlled experiment. All participants completed two relaxation sessions and two autobiographical recall sessions. Each type of session was delivered once over a VCP and once in person. Emotional activation was measured by heart rate, skin conductance and self-assessment of affects during each session.

Results

No significant differences in activation during autobiographical recall between VCP and in person.

Conclusions

This result may indicate the viability of VCPs for work with emotion processing. We discuss the results in light of clients’ and therapists’ concerns about using VCPs in emotional work, with the caution that further practical implications should be considered.