bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macro and microangiopathy related to retinopathy and choroidopathy in type 2 diabetes
Authors: de Asís Bartol-Puyal Francisco , Isanta Carlos , Calvo Pilar , Abadía Beatriz , Ruiz-Moreno Óscar , Pablo Luis
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To describe the relationship between diabetic retinopathy (DR) and choroidal thickness (CT), and systemic macro and microangiopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods:

Cross-sectional study enrolling 200 eyes (100 T2D naïve patients) without macular edema. DR was graded and swept-source optical coherence tomography Triton DRI (Topcon) was used to measure CT, which gave automatic measurements in ETDRS grid. An endocrinologist examined all the patients and searched in their medical records for data about macro and microangiopathy: ischemic cardiopathy (IC), cerebrovascular accident (CVA), peripheral artery disease (PAD), nephropathy, and peripheral polyneuropathy (PPN).

Results:

Mean age was 67.38 ± 8.15 years, mean axial length was 23.26 ± 0.09 mm, and mean IOP was 16.75 ± 3.06 mmHg. Sixty eyes had no DR, 46 had mild, 64 had moderate, 20 had severe, and 10 had proliferative DR. IC was correlated with horizontal choroidal zones ( p < 0.05 and η between 0.16 and 0.21) but not with DR ( p = 0.16). CVA was neither correlated with CT ( p > 0.05) nor with DR ( p = 0.39). PAD was not correlated with CT ( p > 0.05) but it was with DR ( p = 0.03). The type of nephropathy was correlated both with CT in vertical sectors ( p < 0.05 and η between 0.15 and 0.27) and DR ( p = 0.01, τ = 0.24). PPN was not correlated with CT ( p > 0.05) but it was with DR ( p = 0.03).

Conclusions:

DR is correlated with microangiopathy (nephropathy and PPN) but not with macroangiopathy (IC, CVA, and PAD). CT is mildly correlated with nephropathy and IC. Some choroidal regions are more sensitive than others to each diabetic macro and microvascular manifestation.
It’s a sprint, not a marathon: a case for building short-term partnerships for community-based participatory research
Authors: Radonic Lucero , Jacob Cara , Kalman Rowenn , Lewis E. Yvonne
Published: August 2021

Academic calendars and university timelines set an urgent pace for researchers, which can hinder the establishment of long-term community partnerships. Given community-based participatory research’s (CBPR) emphasis on community-led research, time constraints can inhibit academic researchers’ commitments to collaborative methodologies and participatory research. This article considers how CBPR can be adapted for shorter-term engagements while still producing mutually beneficial research. In doing so, we contribute to the existing corpus on rapid assessment methodologies, characterized for adopting methods traditionally practiced over a longer duration to shorter time frames. We review the successes and limitations of a CBPR project executed within the timespan of six months in Flint, Michigan. In the case discussed, photo-voice enabled the inclusion of diverse ways of knowing, horizontal partnerships, reciprocal learning, and an accessible disemmination format within a CBPR framework. In conclusion we assert that there is value in short-term CBPR, especially for emergent issues where there is a need for rapid, responsive methodologies. However, short-term CBPR is a sprint, rather than a marathon; although shorter in duration, it is more intensive. It requires significant methodological commitments, flexibility, and an intensified workload for those involved.
Parallel Wiring Using a Single Intravascular Ultrasound Catheter with Double Rapid Exchange Lumens Technique for Chronic Total Occlusions in Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Tan Michinao , Urasawa Kazushi , Sato Yusuke , Miwa Takashi , Hayashi Taichi
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To describe a parallel wiring using a single intravascular ultrasound catheter with double rapid exchange lumens (PASSABLE) technique for peripheral CTOs.

Technique:

The technique is demonstrated in a 73-year-old patient with CTOs of the superficial femoral and popliteal artery. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) examination revealed the first guidewire was advanced to the intramedial space of the popliteal artery. Following insertion of the first guidewire into only the distal rapid exchange lumen of the IVUS catheter and a second guidewire into the proximal rapid exchange lumen, a guidewire torquer was passed over it and tightened close to an exit port of the proximal rapid exchange lumen to prevent it from exiting an entry port while advancing the IVUS catheter. The IVUS catheter was advanced to the intraplaque region using only the distal rapid exchange lumen and the second guidewire was then advanced to the intraplaque region under IVUS guidance. The IVUS-guided wiring using the second guidewire on both the distal and proximal rapid exchange lumen was continued and resulted in a successful guidewire crossing into the distal true lumen.

Conclusion:

This novel technique may prove beneficial in enabling operators to perform IVUS-guided parallel wiring more easily and efficiently.
The adaptive neural network sliding mode control for angle/force tracking of the dexterous hand
Authors: Qin Xing , Shi Heng , Gao Xin , Li Xiyu
Published: August 2021

In order to achieve high precision control of the dexterous hand, an adaptive neural network sliding mode control algorithm based on the U-K (Udwadia-Kalaba) equation is proposed. Firstly, based on the U-K equation and considering the ideal and non-ideal constrained force at each link of the dexterous hand, the detailed dynamic equation is derived. Secondly, considering the uncertainty of the non-ideal constrained force (mainly the friction force on each link of the dexterous hand) and the chattering phenomenon when using sliding mode control alone, the adaptive neural network and the sliding mode control algorithm are combined to realize the high-precision tracking and estimation of each link angle trajectory and the non-ideal constrained force. Finally, in order to verify the correctness and rationality of the proposed algorithm, the 3-DOF spatial dexterous hand is taken as the simulated object. The simulation results show that the tracking and estimation errors of each link angle and the non-ideal constrained force are 10−2 order of magnitude.
Are Agricultural Commodity Prices on a Conventional Wisdom with Inflation?
Authors: Sun Ting-Ting , Su Chi-Wei , Tao Ran , Qin Meng
Published: August 2021

The study investigates the mutual influence between agricultural commodity prices (ACP) and inflation (INF) in China by employing the bootstrap full- and sub-sample rolling-window Granger causality tests. We find that ACP has positive effects on INF, indicating that agricultural commodities play a significant role in stabilizing general price levels, but the higher ACP may create inflationary pressures. However, the negative effects suggest that under the shock of external uncertainty, the rise of ACP is not always regarded as the prime driver of INF. The results are not consistent with Hypothesis 1, which highlights that INF is positively affected by ACP. In turn, we also find positive and negative impacts of INF on ACP, showing that the level of INF can affect the supply and demand of agricultural commodity markets, it can be considered as a factor affecting ACP. The findings support Hypothesis 2 derived from the interaction mechanism. These analyses can assist the Chinese government to understand that ACP is not an effective indicator for forecasting INF. It also can prompt them to pay attention to the transmission effect of price levels on ACP, to maintain the stability of the agricultural commodity market.
Sexual Violence at Music Festivals and the ‘Theory of Silence’: Unravelling the ‘Hideous’ Sexual Assault Problem in Nigerian Open-air Musical Events
Authors: Aborisade Richard A.
Published: August 2021

This study confronts the prevailing culture of silence that trails sexual victimization in Nigeria to explore the scale of the problem of sexual violence at open-air music festivals. In-depth interviews involving 47 female attendees of musical concerts, who had experienced different forms of sexual violence, were conducted. Findings revealed high severity of sexual assault, low reportage, and strong influence of rape myth acceptance. Refusal to report sexual victimization is informed by the fear of isolation, stigmatization, self-blame and low confidence in the police. Cultural-shift that will change negative social perception towards rape survivors and women attending music festivals is suggested.
Radiographic Optic Nerve Findings and Their Clinical Implications in the Setting of Craniomaxillofacial Trauma
Authors: Alving-Trinh Alexandra L. , Pontell Matthew E. , Jaeger Nolan , Braün Stéphane A. , Kelly Kevin J. , Golinko Michael S.
Published: August 2021

Purpose: Computed tomography (CT) scans obtained in the setting of facial trauma often report aberrations in neural anatomy, such as optic nerve stretching. While these findings have not yet been correlated with clinical findings, they raise concern for traumatic optic neuropathy (TON). This study aims to correlate radiographic optic nerve abnormalities with clinical findings in the setting of craniomaxillofacial trauma. Methods: Patient charts were queried based on ICD-9 codes for the presence of an orbital fracture. Patients were included if the CT report mentioned an anatomic abnormality of the optic nerve. Patients who expired within 24 hours of arrival, had an open globe injury, or who were not able to participate in a visual exam were excluded. An additional matched cohort of patients with orbital fractures and without optic nerve abnormalities was selected. The primary endpoint was a clinical diagnosis of TON, and secondary endpoints included the need for ophthalmologic intervention and the presence of abnormal visual acuity. Results: One-hundred and eight patients were included in the study (54 per group). Radiographic optic nerve stretching was not associated with an increased risk of TON (OR: 2.22, 95% CI: 0.71-7.02); however, it was associated with increased risk for abnormal visual acuity (OR: 2.24, 95% CI: 1.01-4.99). There was no increased need for any ophthalmologic intervention (OR: 1.93, 95% CI: 0.86-4.31). Conclusions: Alterations in orbital anatomy on CT are common after orbital fracture and may inappropriately raise concern for TON. This in turn may prompt interfacility transfer and/or emergent ophthalmology consultation. This study demonstrates that radiographic stretching of the optic nerve does not increase the odds for TON in the setting of orbital fractures. While patients with abnormal optic nerve findings did have a higher rate of abnormal visual acuity, this is a common, multifactorial finding in this setting.
Metabolic activities and molecular investigations of the ameliorative impact of some growth biostimulators on chilling-stressed coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) plant
Authors: Hassanein Raifa A. , Hussein Omaima S. , Abdelkader Amal F. , Farag Iman A. , Hassan Yousra E. , Ibrahim Mohamed
Published: August 2021

Background

Priming of seed prior chilling is regarded as one of the methods to promote seeds germination, whole plant growth, and yield components. The application of biostimulants was reported as beneficial for protecting many plants from biotic or abiotic stresses. Their value was as important to be involved in improving the growth parameters of plants. Also, they were practiced in the regulation of various metabolic pathways to enhance acclimation and tolerance in coriander against chilling stress. To our knowledge, little is deciphered about the molecular mechanisms underpinning the ameliorative impact of biostimulants in the context of understanding the link and overlap between improved morphological characters, induced metabolic processes, and upregulated gene expression. In this study, the ameliorative effect(s) of potassium silicate, HA, and gamma radiation on acclimation of coriander to tolerate chilling stress was evaluated by integrating the data of growth, yield, physiological and molecular aspects.

Results

Plant growth, yield components, and metabolic activities were generally diminished in chilling-stressed coriander plants. On the other hand, levels of ABA and soluble sugars were increased. Alleviation treatment by humic acid, followed by silicate and gamma irradiation, has notably promoted plant growth parameters and yield components in chilling-stressed coriander plants. This improvement was concomitant with a significant increase in phytohormones, photosynthetic pigments, carbohydrate contents, antioxidants defense system, and induction of large subunit of RuBisCO enzyme production. The assembly of Toc complex subunits was maintained, and even their expression was stimulated (especially Toc75 and Toc 34) upon alleviation of the chilling stress by applied biostimulators. Collectively, humic acid was the best the element to alleviate the adverse effects of chilling stress on growth and productivity of coriander.

Conclusions

It could be suggested that the inducing effect of the pretreatments on hormonal balance triggered an increase in IAA + GA3/ABA hormonal ratio. This ratio could be linked and engaged with the protection of cellular metabolic activities from chilling injury against the whole plant life cycle. Therefore, it was speculated that seed priming in humic acid is a powerful technique that can benefit the chilled along with non-chilled plants and sustain the economic importance of coriander plant productivity.
Transcranial color-coded duplex sonography assessment of cerebrovascular reactivity to carbon dioxide: an interventional study
Authors: Klinzing Stephanie , Stretti Federica , Pagnamenta Alberto , Bèchir Markus , Brandi Giovanna
Published: August 2021

Background

The investigation of CO2reactivity (CO2-CVR) is used in the setting of, e.g., traumatic brain injury (TBI). Transcranial color-coded duplex sonography (TCCD) is a promising bedside tool for monitoring cerebral hemodynamics. This study used TCCD to investigate CO2-CVR in volunteers, in sedated and mechanically ventilated patients without TBI and in sedated and mechanically ventilated patients in the acute phase after TBI.

Methods

This interventional investigation was performed between March 2013 and February 2016 at the surgical ICU of the University Hospital of Zurich. Ten volunteers (group 1), ten sedated and mechanically ventilated patients (group 2), and ten patients in the acute phase (12–36 h) after severe TBI (group 3) were included. CO2-CVR to moderate hyperventilation (∆ CO2-5.5 mmHg) was assessed by TCCD.

Results

CO2-CVR was 2.14 (1.20–2.70) %/mmHg in group 1, 2.03 (0.15–3.98) %/mmHg in group 2, and 3.32 (1.18–4.48)%/mmHg in group 3, without significant differences among groups.

Conclusion

Our data did not yield evidence for altered CO2-CVR in the early phase after TBI examined by TCCD.

Trial registration

Part of this trial was performed as preparation for the interventional trial in TBI patients (clinicaltrials.govNCT03822026, 30.01.2019, retrospectively registered).
Patient perceptions of the benefits and barriers of virtual postnatal care: a qualitative study
Authors: Saad Megan , Chan Sophy , Nguyen Lisa , Srivastava Siddhartha , Appireddy Ramana
Published: August 2021

Objective

The objective of this study is to understand the perceptions of new mothers using virtual care via video conferencing to gain insight into the benefits and barriers of virtual care for obstetric patients.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 patients attending the Kingston Health Sciences Centre. The interviews were 20–25 min in length and recorded through an audio recorder. Thematic analysis was conducted in order to derive the major themes explored in this study.

Results

New mothers must often adopt new routines to balance their needs and their child’s needs. These routines could impact compliance and motivation to attend follow-up care. In our study, participants expressed high satisfaction with virtual care, emphasizing benefits related to comfort, convenience, communication, socioeconomic factors, and the ease of technology use. Participants also perceived that they could receive emotional support and build trust with their health care providers despite the remote nature of their care. Due to its ease of use and increased accessibility, we argue that virtual care shows promise to facilitate long-term compliance to care in obstetric patients.

Conclusions

Virtual care is a useful modality that could improve compliance to obstetric care. Further research and clinical endeavours should examine how social factors and determinants intersect to determine how they underpin patient perceptions of virtual and in-person care.
An eReferral Management & Triage System for minor Oral surgery referrals from primary care dentists: a cost-effectiveness evaluation
Authors: Hill Harry , Birch Stephen , Tickle Martin , Petty Iain , Goldthorpe Joanna
Published: August 2021

Objective

Oral surgery referrals from NHS dental practices are rising, increasing the pressures on available hospital resources. We assess if an electronic referral system with consultant or peer (general dental practitioner) led triage of patient referrals from general dental practices can effectively divert patients requiring minor oral surgery into specialist led primary care settings at a reduced cost whilst providing care of the same or enhanced quality. One year of no triage (all referrals treated in secondary care) was followed by one-year of consultant led triage, which in turn was followed by year of peer-led triage.

Method

A health economic evaluation of all patient referrals from 27 UK dental practices for oral surgery procedures. The follow-up is over a three-year period at hospital dental services in two general hospitals, one dental hospital, and a single specialist oral surgeon based in two primary care practices. The evaluation is a comparison of mean outcomes in the hospitals and in specialist primary care dental services between the study periods (i.e. periods with and without the triage system). The main outcomes of interest are mean NHS cost saving per referral (costs to the NHS and costs to broader society), proportion of diverted referrals, case-mix of referrals and patient reports of the quality of dentistry services received at their referral destination.

Results

The proportion of referrals diverted to specialist primary care was similar during both periods (45% under consultant-led triage and 43% under GDP-led triage). Statistically significant savings per referral diverted were found (£116.11 under consultant-led triage, £90.25 under GDP-led triage). There were no statistically significant changes in the case-mix of referrals. Cost savings varied according to the coding (and hence tariff) of referred cases by the provider hospitals. Patients reported similarly high levels of satisfaction scores for treatment in specialist primary care and secondary care settings.

Conclusions

Implementation of electronic referral management in primary care, when combined with triage, led to appropriate diversions to specialist primary care. Although cost savings were realised by referral diversion these savings are dependent on the particular tariff allocation (coding) practices of provider hospitals.
More than causing (epi)genomic instability: emerging physiological implications of transposable element modulation
Authors: Hsu Pu-Sheng , Yu Shu-Han , Tsai Yi-Tzang , Chang Jen-Yun , Tsai Li-Kuang , Ye Chih-Hung , Song Ning-Yu , Yau Lih-Chiao , Lin Shau-Ping
Published: August 2021

Transposable elements (TEs) initially attracted attention because they comprise a major portion of the genomic sequences in plants and animals. TEs may jump around the genome and disrupt both coding genes as well as regulatory sequences to cause disease. Host cells have therefore evolved various epigenetic and functional RNA-mediated mechanisms to mitigate the disruption of genomic integrity by TEs. TE associated sequences therefore acquire the tendencies of attracting various epigenetic modifiers to induce epigenetic alterations that may spread to the neighboring genes. In addition to posting threats for (epi)genome integrity, emerging evidence suggested the physiological importance of endogenous TEs either as cis-acting control elements for controlling gene regulation or as TE-containing functional transcripts that modulate the transcriptome of the host cells. Recent advances in long-reads sequence analysis technologies, bioinformatics and genetic editing tools have enabled the profiling, precise annotation and functional characterization of TEs despite their challenging repetitive nature. The importance of specific TEs in preimplantation embryonic development, germ cell differentiation and meiosis, cell fate determination and in driving species specific differences in mammals will be discussed.
Is three-dimensional–printed custom-made ultra-short stem with a porous structure an acceptable reconstructive alternative in peri-knee metaphysis for the tumorous bone defect?
Authors: Wang Jie , An Jingjing , Lu Minxun , Zhang Yuqi , Lin Jingqi , Luo Yi , Zhou Yong , Min Li , Tu Chongqi
Published: August 2021

Background

Long-lasting reconstruction after extensive resection involving peri-knee metaphysis is a challenging problem in orthopedic oncology. Various reconstruction methods have been proposed, but they are characterized by a high complication rate. The purposes of this study were to (1) assess osseointegration at the bone implant interface and correlated incidence of aseptic loosening; (2) identify complications including infection, endoprosthesis fracture, periprosthetic fracture, leg length discrepancy, and wound healing problem in this case series; and (3) evaluate the short-term function of the patient who received this personalized reconstruction system.

Methods

Between September 2016 and June 2018, our center treated 15 patients with malignancies arising in the femur or tibia shaft using endoprosthesis with a 3D-printed custom-made stem. Osseointegration and aseptic loosening were assessed with digital tomosynthesis. Complications were recorded by reviewing the patients’ records. The function was evaluated with the 1993 version of the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS-93) score at a median of 42 (range, 34 to 54) months after reconstruction.

Results

One patient who experienced early aseptic loosening was managed with immobilization and bisphosphonates infusion. All implants were well osseointegrated at the final follow-up examination. There are two periprosthetic fractures intraoperatively. The wire was applied to assist fixation, and the fracture healed at the latest follow-up. Two patients experienced significant leg length discrepancies. The median MSTS-93 score was 26 (range, 23 to 30).

Conclusions

A 3D-printed custom-made ultra-short stem with a porous structure provides acceptable early outcomes in patients who received peri-knee metaphyseal reconstruction. With detailed preoperative design and precise intraoperative techniques, the reasonable initial stability benefits osseointegration to osteoconductive porous titanium, and therefore ensures short- and possibly long-term durability. Personalized adaptive endoprosthesis, careful intraoperative operation, and strict follow-up management enable effective prevention and treatment of complications. The functional results in our series were acceptable thanks to reliable fixation in the bone-endoprosthesis interface and an individualized rehabilitation program. These positive results indicate this device series can be a feasible alternative for critical bone defect reconstruction. Nevertheless, longer follow-up is required to determine whether this technique is superior to other forms of fixation.
Metabolic impairment of non-small cell lung cancers by mitochondrial HSPD1 targeting
Authors: Parma Beatrice , Ramesh Vignesh , Gollavilli Paradesi Naidu , Siddiqui Aarif , Pinna Luisa , Schwab Annemarie , Marschall Sabine , Zhang Shuman , Pilarsky Christian , Napoli Francesca , Volante Marco , Urbanczyk Sophia , Mielenz Dirk , Schrøder Henrik Daa , Stemmler Marc , Wurdak Heiko , Ceppi Paolo
Published: August 2021

Background

The identification of novel targets is of paramount importance to develop more effective drugs and improve the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Since cells alter their metabolic rewiring during tumorigenesis and along cancer progression, targeting key metabolic players and metabolism-associated proteins represents a valuable approach with a high therapeutic potential. Metabolic fitness relies on the functionality of heat shock proteins (HSPs), molecular chaperones that facilitate the correct folding of metabolism enzymes and their assembly in macromolecular structures.

Methods

Gene fitness was determined by bioinformatics analysis from available datasets from genetic screenings. HSPD1 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues from NSCLC patients. Real-time proliferation assays with and without cytotoxicity reagents, colony formation assays and cell cycle analyses were used to monitor growth and drug sensitivity of different NSCLC cells in vitro. In vivo growth was monitored with subcutaneous injections in immune-deficient mice. Cell metabolic activity was analyzed through extracellular metabolic flux analysis. Specific knockouts were introduced by CRISPR/Cas9.

Results

We show heat shock protein family D member 1 (HSPD1 or HSP60) as a survival gene ubiquitously expressed in NSCLC and associated with poor patients’ prognosis. HSPD1 knockdown or its chemical disruption by the small molecule KHS101 induces a drastic breakdown of oxidative phosphorylation, and suppresses cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. By combining drug profiling with transcriptomics and through a whole-genome CRISPR/Cas9 screen, we demonstrate that HSPD1-targeted anti-cancer effects are dependent on oxidative phosphorylation and validated molecular determinants of KHS101 sensitivity, in particular, the creatine-transporter SLC6A8 and the subunit of the cytochrome c oxidase complex COX5B.

Conclusions

These results highlight mitochondrial metabolism as an attractive target and HSPD1 as a potential theranostic marker for developing therapies to combat NSCLC.
Treatment of trigeminal and glossopharyngeal neuralgia in an adolescent: a case report
Authors: Maeda Aiko , Araki Kenzo , Yamada Chiaki , Nakayama Shoko , Shirozu Kazuhiro , Yamaura Ken
Published: August 2021

Background

Hyperactive dysfunction syndrome (HDS) refers to a constellation of symptoms developing from cranial nerve overactivity caused by neurovascular compression at the root entry or exit zone near the brainstem. Although the combined features of HDS are seen in the elderly, there are no reports of such cases in adolescents, to date.

Case presentation

A 17-year-old male was diagnosed with right glossopharyngeal neuralgia and treated with microvascular decompression. He experienced new-onset right facial pain later and was diagnosed with right trigeminal neuralgia, which required prompt radiofrequency thermocoagulation of the right mandibular nerve. Follow-up in the third post-treatment year revealed the absence of symptom recurrence.

Discussion

We report the treatment of a rare case of adolescent-onset combined HDS presenting as trigeminal and glossopharyngeal neuralgia. This report highlights the possibility of combined hyperactive dysfunction syndrome in younger age groups. It is crucial to establish a diagnosis early on for prompt management.
Economic violence among women of economically backward Muslim minority community: the case of rural North India
Authors: Ohlan Ramphul
Published: August 2021

Economic violence represents a state of control over an individual capacity to obtain, utilize and keep up economic assets. The current study investigates the prevalence of economic violence among women of the socioeconomically backward Muslim minority community by taking a sample of 387 women from rural areas of North India within a framework of domestic violence. It is shown that economic violence against Muslim women perpetrated by their husbands exists in India. Economic violence adversely affects Muslim women’s access to health services, educational attainment, social mobility, and employment opportunities. Our findings indicate that among the components of economic violence experienced by women, the tendency of employment sabotage is higher compared to economic control and economic exploitation. Clearly, there is a need for a special focus on improving minority community women’s access to developmental opportunities.
Role of Cellular Senescence in Type II Diabetes
Authors: Narasimhan Akilavalli , Flores Rafael R , Robbins Paul D , Niedernhofer Laura J
Published: August 2021

Cellular senescence is a cell fate that occurs in response to numerous types of stress and can promote tissue repair or drive inflammation and disruption of tissue homeostasis depending on the context. Aging and obesity lead to an increase in the senescent cell burden in multiple organs. Senescent cells release a myriad of senescence-associated secretory phenotype factors that directly mediate pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, adipose tissue dysfunction, and insulin resistance in peripheral tissues, which promote the onset of type II diabetes mellitus. In addition, hyperglycemia and metabolic changes seen in diabetes promote cellular senescence. Diabetes-induced cellular senescence contributes to various diabetic complications. Thus, type II diabetes is both a cause and consequence of cellular senescence. This review summarizes recent studies on the link between aging, obesity, and diabetes, focusing on the role of cellular senescence in disease processes.
Asymptotic approximation of misclassification probabilities in linear discriminant analysis with repeated measurements
Authors: Ngailo Edward K. , Von Rosen Dietrich , Singull Martin
Published: August 2021

We propose asymptotic approximations for the probabilities of misclassification in linear discriminant analysis when the group means follow a growth curve structure. The discriminant function can classify a new observation vector of p repeated measurements into one of several multivariate normal populations with equal covariance matrix. We derive certain relations of the statistics under consideration in order to obtain asymptotic approximation of misclassification errors for the two group case. Finally, we perform Monte Carlo simulations to evaluate the reliability of the proposed results.
Emphasising compassion for co-workers in medical training and healthcare organisations to address bullying
Authors: Simpson Tamara , Simpson Ace V
Published: August 2021

The over-representation of bullying in healthcare is incongruent with the compassion of healthcare professionals. This issue needs to be addressed at the levels of medical training and organisation by extending the emphasis on compassionate patient care to include care for co-workers.
Advanced Introduction to Platform Economics, Robin Mansell and W. Edward Steinmueller (2020)
Authors: Flew Terry
Published: August 2021

Review of: Advanced Introduction to Platform Economics, Robin Mansell and W. Edward Steinmueller (2020)

Cheltenham: Edward Elgar Publishing, 176 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-78990-062-0, p/bk, £15.95
Producing Children’s Television in the On-Demand Age, Anna Potter (2020)
Authors: Scarlata Alexa
Published: August 2021

Review of: Producing Children’s Television in the On-Demand Age, Anna Potter (2020)

Bristol: Intellect Ltd, 188 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-78938-291-4, p/bk, USD 37.00
Our stories, our selves: Star Wars fanfictions as feminist counterpublic discourses in digital imaginaria
Authors: Marshall Andrea
Published: August 2021

Fanfiction has a long and varied history in the Star Wars franchise since it began in 1977 with the debut of the first film, Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. The decade of the 1970s created new possibilities for science fiction multiverses and metanarratives; science fiction became an adaptive film genre that could be reimagined with seemingly infinite narrational results. The myriad of genre films that were released in the mid-to-late 1970s revealed dynamic syntheses with horror (e.g. Alien, Invasion of the Body Snatchers and Close Encounters of the Third Kind), franchises that previously had existed solely on television (Star Trek: The Motion Picture) and musical theatre (The Rocky Horror Picture Show). Cinematic audiences became increasingly accustomed to science fiction tropes and themes in film; audience participation in the theatre (e.g. The Rocky Horror Picture Show) expanded to print zines (often with fanfiction) for multiple franchises as well as fan conventions. Fanfiction’s beginnings as an analogue culture dramatically changed with the advent of the internet and the evolution of fandoms as digital cultures. Web-based platforms such as FanFiction.net and Archive of Our Own (AO3) host sundry fan communities’ creative outputs including podcasts, art and, most frequently, fanfiction stories. The release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens in 2015 immediately captured the fandom’s imagination; the animosity and tension between the new villain Kylo Ren (Ben Solo) and protagonist Rey of Jakku particularly fascinated the young adult fans who were lately converted to the Star Wars fandom due to this pairing (known as Reylo within the fandom and within cinematic circles). The newest generations of fans were acclimated to audience participation and paratextual interactions due to their positions as digital natives. The Reylo fan phenomenon particularly erupted into fanfictions as critical data artefacts, even predicting Reylo as a romantic pairing years before the second and third films in the franchise trilogy Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. The Reylo pairing is just one example of how online Star Wars fanfiction communities expand audience participation to autonomous collective identity formation. This article examines feminist fanfictions in the Star Wars fandom as gendered critical data artefacts, as collaborative communities of practice, and as counterpublic discourses that apply feminist critiques to conventional gender roles within the most recent film trilogy and the fandom itself.
A scoping review on data integration in the field of infectious diseases, 2009-2018
Authors: Kim Seulgi , Rhee Chulwoo , Kang Su Jin , Tak Sangwoo
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim: Little is known about data integration in public health research and its impact. This study aimed to summarize known collaboration information, the characteristics of the datasets used, the methods of data integration, and knowledge gaps.

Materials and Methods: We reviewed papers on infectious diseases from two or more datasets published during 2009- 2018, before the coronavirus disease pandemic. Two independent researchers searched the Medline and Global Health databases using predetermined criteria.

Results: Of the 2375 items retrieved, 2272 titles and abstracts were reviewed. Of these, 164 were secondary reviews. Full-text reviews identified 153 relevant articles; we excluded 11 papers that did not meet our inclusion criteria. Of the 153 papers, 150 were single-country studies. Most papers were from North America (n=47). Viral diseases were the most commonly researched diseases (n=66), and many studies sought to define infection rates (n=62). Data integration usually employed unique national identifiers (n=37) or address-based identifiers (n=30). Two data sources were combined (n=121), and at least one data source typically included routine surveillance information.

Conclusion: We found a growing usage of data integration in infectious diseases, emphasizing the advantages of data integration and linkage analysis, and reiterating its importance in public health emergency preparedness and response.
Biological and molecular characterization of a sheep pathogen isolate of Mannheimia haemolytica and leukotoxin production kinetics
Authors: Bkiri Dounia , Semmate Noha , Boumart Zineb , Safini Najete , Fakri Fatima Zohra , Bamouh Zahra , Omari Tadlaoui Khalid , Fellahi Siham , Tligui Noursaid , Fassi Fihri Ouafaa , El Harrak Mehdi
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim: Mannheimia haemolytica (Mha) is a common agent of pneumonia in ruminants globally, causing economic losses by morbidity, mortality, and treatment costs. Infection by Mha is often associated with or promoted by respiratory viral pathogens and environmental conditions. Infections due to Mha have rarely been described in small ruminants. This study reports the biological and molecular characteristics of a new Moroccan Mha isolate from small ruminants presenting typical respiratory symptoms. We also studied the cultural parameters, growth kinetics, and Lkt excretion of the isolate and its pathogenicity on laboratory animals and small ruminants.

Materials and Methods: Suspected pasteurellosis cases in sheep and goat flocks in Morocco were investigated. A local strain of Mha was isolated and identified using biochemical and molecular methods. Polymerase chain reaction-targeting specific genes were used for serotyping and phylogenetic analyses; further, leukotoxin production, cytotoxicity, and pathogenicity of the isolate in mice, goats, and sheep were investigated.

Results: Phylogeny analysis revealed 98.76% sequence identity with the USA isolate of 2013; the strain growth with a cycle of 9-10 h with leukotoxin secretion was detected by NETosis and quantified by cytotoxicity and mortality of mice. Goat and sheep infections cause hyperthermia, with characteristic postmortem lesions in the trachea and lung.

Conclusion: A local isolate of Mha from sheep that died of pneumonia was characterized for the 1st time in North Africa using biological and molecular methods. Although growth on appropriate culture media is accompanied by intense leukotoxin secretion, experimental infections of sheep and goats cause hyperthermia and typical lesions of pneumonia.
A MODEL PROPOSAL FOR SELECTING THE STRUCTURAL SYSTEM
Authors: Dagilgan Sinem , Guven Seren
Published: August 2021

The choice of the structural system that crosses any space is the basic building design problem. Developments in building technology and materials science have provided innovative solutions to the problem of crossing space. In previous studies, criteria have been examined in the selection of structural systems, but it has not been clarified according what / how to choose the product. To cross any specified space with the most suitable system and material is still a complicated process. In this study, it is aimed to choose the most suitable system by include decision makers into the model to minimize the possible losses. In the proposed method, selection criteria were created from the distinguishing features of the systems and intermittent scale method was used while determining the criteria values. A decision mechanism is created by evaluating these criteria values with the percentages set by the user. In this way, it has been observed that the selection process gives fast results as it is handled systematically, and it also provides flexible selection opportunities because it places the preferences in the foreground. The model can be used for develop material selection for structure, and this differentiation can be utilized as base study for future research. For complex product selection can be developed a software.
DIGITALIZATION IN CONSTRUCTION: BLOCKCHAIN APPLICABILITY IN THE INDUSTRY
Authors: Pattini Giulia , Seghezzi Elena , Di Giuda Giuseppe Martino
Published: August 2021

Blockchain, as a Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT), could disrupt the traditional hierarchy way in which information is shared and processes are developed in the construction industry. The fragmentation of people, processes and contracts has been considered as the main responsible for the sector negative trend. The information asymmetry characterizing the dynamics of the processes denies both the information traceability and the disciplines interoperability. The recent digital transformation boosted by Building Information Modeling (BIM) has promised a more transparent and collaborative environment. However, its adoption has gradually shown some trust issues in the information flow, discouraging participants from collaborating to achieve project goals. For these reasons, the research explores Blockchain in the construction industry, highlighting its potentials in supporting transparent, reliable and distributed information sharing. In particular, the research intends to combine the features of the digitalization, namely BIM and Blockchain, in the industry. To accomplish this, the first goal consists of an overall literature review on the current level of the Blockchain investigation in the built environment. Secondly, based on that analysis, two proposals for potential application of Blockchain in AECO sector are presented. This preliminary exploration intends to endorse Blockchain as a suitable system for governing the trust issues, supporting an efficient contract execution and a better sharing of all project information.
THE APPLICATION OF MULTIPLE-OBJECTIVE GENETIC ALGORITHMS FOR CONTROLLING SOUND QUALITY BY ARCHITECTURAL FORM DESIGN
Authors: BUSAYARAT CHAWEE , HUNPAISARN SURAKIST
Published: August 2021

Presently, the architectural design responding to the sound environment has become to play an important role in the design process. New technologies such as simulation and optimization models through a computer allow us to discover the possibility of shapes, forms, and materials that respond to a specific condition of the acoustic environment. However, due to the complexity of variables, we have to face the difficulty of how to evaluate the calculated result. How should one know if the said design is suitable successful for the activities in that area? One of the solutions is using the genetic algorithm, which refers to the scenario simulation and adjustment to find the most suitable model. It provides the possibility of shape and materials to be the best result to design the architecture responding to the sound environment. The objective of this research is to propose a guideline for using genetic algorithms for architectural design by using sound quality as the Fitness function to find the best results terms of shape and material used. The proposed process takes reverberation time of sound and audio ray-tracing into consideration. The result of this research shows applications, abilities, and limitations of genetic algorithms in the domain of architectural parametric design.
OBSTACLES OF IMPLEMENTING GREEN MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT IN HOSPITAL BUILDINGS
Authors: Olanrewaju AbdulLateef , Teo Yee Jia , Sarajul Mohamed Fikri
Published: August 2021

Demand for green hospital buildings is increasing. While some hospital buildings were designed and constructed as green buildings, many hospital buildings have been upgraded to comply with the green requirements. Green hospital buildings require green maintenance practice. In comparison, procuring green buildings is easy as compared to green maintenance. Through unstructured interviews involving 3 hospitals, this research investigated the complications in the implementation of green maintenance in hospital buildings. The research found that lack of awareness, financial constraints/government support, new technologies, and top management support were the major obstacles toward the implementation of green maintenance. The results also confirmed that the maintenance of hospital buildings is corrective, reactive, and cost-driven. The salient finding from this research is that the maintenance organizations have a poor understanding of the concept of green maintenance practices. Saving energy costs are the main purpose of implementing green maintenance in hospitals. From an ontological point of view, the main findings of this research on the constraints of the implementation of green maintenance are generalizable to other types of buildings in and outside of Malaysia.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON USE OF FALL PREVENTION MEMBERS IN WALL AND COLUMN DEMOLITION
Authors: Takanashi Seiji , Takahashi Hiroki , Hori Tomohito
Published: August 2021

At demolition sites in Japan, columns and walls are pulled down and demolished by heavy machinery or wire ropes. In a small-scale building in urban areas, columns and walls are pulled down by wire ropes. Before pulling down, workers damage the bottom part of the columns and walls for weakening them. However, if the damage of the columns and walls are too much, they fall down before use of wire ropes. As a result, they may crush workers. In this study, a fall prevention material was proposed with its installation method and verified its effectiveness by experiments. In an experiment of this study, steel pipes for supporting 3m-column were examined. The steel pipes were installed diagonally to the column. The column was loaded horizontally. We measured load and deformation until the steel pipe failed. As a result of experiments, it was found that the steel pipe buckled or the bolt supporting the steel pipe damaged. We concluded that this method is effective because the steel pipes were found to be sufficiently strong against the load generated in the steel pipes when the columns fell.
PROJECT BUNDLING IN TRANSPORTATION CONSTRUCTION
Authors: D'Angelo Daniel , Minchin R. Edward
Published: August 2021

Project bundling is a process through which a single contract is awarded for the continued development of multiple bridges or roadways, i.e., their preservation, rehabilitation, or replacement. One question that past studies on project bundling have not answered is that of how to quantify its benefits on engineering projects. This paper shows the extent to which project bundling enables optimal use of resources and promotes quicker project completion. It also explains how project bundling effectively leverages these efficiencies by simplifying project delivery and exploiting alternative and traditional contracting approaches. Indeed, because the process of bundling individual projects into larger “umbrella” contracts simplifies design, contracting, and construction, it enables organizations to leverage economies of scale for significantly increased efficiency. This process also encourages more partnering during project delivery, execution, and project completion. In addition to discussing the efficiency of bundling, this paper also identifies implementation strategies and scenarios for project bundling that can be applied by counties, municipalities, districts, or states. These implementation practices can also be layered to allow any combination of project types, beyond the combinations most common to current bundling contracts. Ultimately, this research shows that overall contract cost can be significantly reduced through carefully designed strategic project bundling.