bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatigue Resistance of the Advanta V12/iCast and Viabahn Balloon-Expandable Stent-Graft as Bridging Stents in Experimental Fenestrated Endografting
Authors: Torsello Giovanni , Müller Marcus , Litterscheid Sarah , Berekoven Bärbel , Austermann Martin , Torsello Giovanni-Federico
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

Bridging stents undergo millions of cycles during respiratory movements of the kidneys throughout the patient’s life. Thus, understanding the response of fabric and endoskeleton of the stent to cyclic loading over the time is crucial. In this study, we compare the fatigue resistance of the Viabahn Balloon-Expandable stent-graft (VBX) with the widely used Advanta V12/iCast under prolonged stress induction.

Materials and Methods:

A polyester test sheet with 10 fenestrations was used simulating a fenestrated endograft. Five 6×59 mm VBX stent-grafts and five 6×58 mm Advanta stent-grafts were implanted into 6×6 mm fenestrations. The stents were flared with a 10×20 mm PTA (percutaneous transluminal angioplasty) catheter and connected with a fatigue stress machine. All stent-grafts were evaluated by microscopy and radiography at baseline and after regular intervals until 50,000,000 cycles were applied, simulating a life span of approximately 75 months. Freedom from fracture (FF), freedom from initial polytertafluoroethylene (PTFE) changes (FIC), and from PTFE breakpoint (FBP, all-layer defect) were calculated.

Results:

Digital radiographic images did not show any stent fracture in both groups after 50,000,000 cycles. The VBX stent-graft was free from any all-layer defects at the conclusion of 50,000,00 cycles resulting in a significant higher FBP compared with Advanta V12 (50,000,000 vs 33,400,000; p<0.01). All-layer defects were observed only in the Advanta group. Two of 5 Advanta stents showed early penetration of the nitinol ring causing a defect of PTFE. Regarding FIC, there was no significant difference between the stents (3,400,000 in VBX vs 3,200,000 in Advanta).

Conclusions:

In fatigue tests simulating respiration movements, VBX and Advanta V12 performed equally well in terms of fracture resistance and freedom from initial PTFE changes. VBX maintained freedom from PTFE breakpoint throughout the full 50,000,000 cycles. All-layers defects were detected only in Advanta and were mainly caused by penetration of the nitinol ring through the PTFE.
hsa-miR-9-5p Down-Regulates HK2 and Confers Radiosensitivity to Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Zhan Shanqiang , Ni Baoliang
Published: February 2021

Background:

This study was designed to explore the effects of hsa-miR-9-5p on radiotherapy sensitivity of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) by targeting hexokinase 2 (HK2).

Methods:

The levels of hsa-miR-9-5 and HK2 in NPC patients and radiosensitive and resistant cells were determined using qRT-PCR. The dual luciferase reporter gene system was used to determine hsa-miR-9-5p targeting HK2. The level of HK2 expression in NPC were determined using qRT-PCR and western blotting after the administration of hsa-miR-9-5p agomir. The effects of hsa-miR-9-5p on proliferation and apoptosis with or without irradiation (IR) were examined using CCK-8, flow cytometry and colony formation assays. (18F)-Flourodeoxyglucose uptake was used to evaluate the growth of tumor with or without radiation therapy in vivo.

Results:

hsa-miR-9-5p target to inhibit HK2. Moreover, the cell proliferation was seen in a decreased trend while the cell apoptosis increased in the hsa-miR-9-5p group following radiation therapy hsa-miR-9-5p also showed a significant inhibitory effect on the growth of tumor in vivo with radiation therapy.

Conclusions:

hsa-miR-9-5p improved the radiosensitivity of NPC by targeting HK2.
The Efficacy of Community Peacebuilding in African Communities: Case Studies From Nigeria and Zimbabwe
Authors: Akande Olubunmi , Kaye Sylvia , Rukuni Tinashe
Published: February 2021

This article discusses the efficacy of community-based peacebuilding efforts to develop sustainable peace in conflict-torn communities. Using participatory action research (PAR) is a powerful means of developing sustainable solutions to a conflict: It provides the means to test peace theories and draw upon a community’s knowledge and strengths in order to develop interventions. The knowledge gained can be lost if not understood within national or regional contexts, particularly if there is divergence between interests that can destroy community-based peacebuilding accomplishments. Holistic approaches facilitate sustainable peace and foster learning applicable to other situations. Two case studies, Nigeria and Zimbabwe, identified broad principles that potentially can be applied in the development of policies and practices. In the Nigerian case, two communities had experienced years of conflict. The PAR component was based on participatory dialogue. In the Zimbabwe case, political conflict was resolved through the development of a mutually beneficial peace garden.
Development of a Cost-Effective Surgical Headlight Using Consumer Light Emitting Diode Lighting and 3D Printing
Authors: Gupta Deven K. , Chen Lily , Heidari Andrew E. , Chau Steven , Dunn Brandyn , Wong Brian J.-F.
Published: February 2021

Need. Battery-powered Light Emitting Diode (LED) surgical headlights are necessary for improved intraoperative illumination but may be costly. Technical Solution. The objective of this study was to develop a low-cost surgical headlight using a consumer-grade LED headlight and 3D-printed mount. Proof of Concept. Eighteen surgical residents performed simulation exercises that mimicked suturing in the oral cavity using both a custom prototype headlight and a commercial surgical headlight. The time required to complete the task with each headlight was recorded along with an exit survey. A second device was created based on the critiques of the first device and was tested by ten additional surgical trainees. Surgical residents completed the simulation task in 27 ± 8.6 seconds and 21 ± 5.6 seconds with the commercially available headlight and first prototype, respectively. In the second experiment, the simulation task was completed in 23 ± 11.1 and 23 ± 12.2 seconds with the commercially available headlight and second device, respectively. Survey results showed an overall positive consensus, with critiques about headband security, suggestions for smaller LED chassis, and a more robust mounting bracket. Some preferred the prototype headlight due to the wider field of illumination compared to the commercially available unit (ie, beam spread/beam angle). Next Steps. Future adjustments are required to optimize the location of the headlight and the battery to modify the weight distribution of the device. Conclusion. These findings demonstrate that our prototype models are viable alternatives to conventional surgical headlights and warrant continued optimization for broader adoption by surgeons and trainees for whom higher-cost alternatives are not an option.
Research on rock breaking mechanism and load characteristics of TBM cutter based on discrete element method
Authors: Ling Jingxiu , Cheng Long , Tong Xin , Wu Zhihong
Published: February 2021

Tunnel boring machine (TBM) is a large-scale tunnel engineering equipment, which has unparalleled advantages in safety and work efficiency. The cutter is subjected to complex and variable random impact loads, resulting in damage to bearings, cutter rings, and cutter shafts. Therefore, based on the discrete element simulation platform and experiment, this paper established the cutter rock simulation model based on the experimental data, and analyzed the rock breaking process, cutter load magnitude, and variation law. The research results show that when the cutter pole diameter decreases from 200 mm, 100 mm, and 0 mm in sequence, the rolling force increases accordingly, and the maximum increase of the rolling force is 56%. Meanwhile the lateral force decreases and the maximum average decrease value is 26%. Moreover, the rolling force showed a downward trend with the increase of the cutter spacing. When the cutter spacing is increased from 80 mm to 120 mm, the average rolling force decreases by 51%, and the maximum value rises slightly, increasing by 2%. And, the lateral force tends to increase, with an increase of 17% and the maximum lateral force value increase was 29%. The results can provide load input reference for TBM cutter layout, cutterhead structure design, and performance evaluation.
Electroacupuncture may alleviate neuropathic pain via suppressing P2X7R expression
Authors: Wu Qiaoyun , Yue Jingjing , Lin Li , Yu Xiaolan , Zhou Ye , Ying Xinwang , Chen Xiaolong , Tu Wenzhan , Lou Xinfa , Yang Guanhu , Zhou Kecheng , Jiang Songhe
Published: February 2021

Neuropathic pain is a severe problem that is difficult to treat clinically. Reducing abnormal remodeling of dendritic spines/synapses and increasing the anti-inflammatory effects in the spinal cord dorsal horn are potential methods to treat this disease. Previous studies have reported that electroacupuncture (EA) could increase the pain threshold after peripheral nerve injury. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. P2X7 receptors (P2X7R) mediate the activation of microglia and participate in the occurrence and development of neuropathic pain. We hypothesized that the effects of EA on relieving pain may be related to the downregulation of the P2X7R. Spinal nerve ligation (SNL) rats were used as a model in this experiment, and 2'(3')-O-(4-benzoyl)benzoyl ATP (BzATP) was used as a P2X7R agonist. We found that EA treatment decreased dendritic spine density, inhibited synaptic reconstruction and reduced inflammatory response, which is consistent with the decrease in P2X7R expression as well as the improved neurobehavioral performance. In contrast to the beneficial effects of EA, BzATP enhanced abnormal remodeling of dendritic spines/synapses and inflammation. Furthermore, the EA-mediated positive effects were reversed by BzATP, which is consistent with the increased P2X7R expression. These findings indicated that EA improves neuropathic pain by reducing abnormal dendritic spine/synaptic reconstruction and inflammation via suppressing P2X7R expression.
Reliability of moral decision-making: Evidence from the trolley dilemma
Authors: Gosling Corentin J , Trémolière Bastien
Published: February 2021

The application of framing effects in the field of moral judgement has offered a golden opportunity to assess the reliability of people’s moral judgements and decisions. To date, however, these studies are still scarce and they suffer from multiple methodological issues. Therefore, this study aims to provide further insights into the reliability of moral judgements while fixing these methodological shortcomings. In this study, we employed the classic trolley dilemma moral decision-making paradigm to determine the extent to which moral decisions are susceptible to framing effects. A total of 1,040 participants were included in the study. The data revealed that choices of participants did not significantly differ between the two frames. Equivalence tests confirmed that the associated effect size was very small. Further exploratory analyses revealed an unplanned interaction between the framing effect and the target of the framing manipulation. This result became from marginally statistically significant to insignificant following different sensitivity analyses. The implications and limitations of these findings and directions for future research are discussed.
Silver/manganese dioxide nanorod catalyzed hydrogen-borrowing reactions and tert-butyl ester synthesis
Authors: Luo Huanhuan , Yang Yike , Yang Bobin , Xu Zhaojun , Wang Dawei
Published: February 2021

Silver/manganese dioxide (Ag@MnO2) nanorods are synthesized and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was discovered that Ag@MnO2 nanorods can realize hydrogen-borrowing reactions in high yields and are also effective for the synthesis of tert-butyl esters from aryl cyanides and tert-butyl hydroperoxide in a short period of time. Mechanistic experiments revealed that this catalytic system acts as a Lewis acid in hydrogen-borrowing reactions, while the synthesis of tert-butyl esters occurs through a radical pathway. This is the first report on the excellent catalytic activity of Ag@MnO2 nanorods as a catalyst.
Solvent effects on the electronic and optical properties of Ni(II), Zn(II), and Fe(II) complexes of a Schiff base derived from 5-bromo-2-hydroxybenzaldehyde
Authors: Buldurun Kenan , Tanış Emine , Turan Nevin , Çolak Naki , Çankaya Nevin
Published: February 2021

In this article, the electronic, optical, and charge transfer properties of a Schiff base ligand prepared using 5-bromo-2-hydroxybenzaldehyde and ethyl 6-acetyl-2-amino-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrothieno[2,3- c]pyridine-3-carboxylate (C19H19BrN2O4S) and its Fe(II) (C19H30BrN2O10SClFe), Ni(II) (C19H28BrN2O9SClNi), and Zn(II) (C19H28BrN2O9SClZn) complexes are described based on different solvents environments and supported by theoretical calculations. Theoretical calculations are carried out using density functional theory (DFT/UB3LYP/LANL2DZ). The optical densities, optical band gaps, and refractive indices of the ligand and its Fe(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) complexes in different solvent environments are obtained. The reorganization energies are calculated to determine the charge transfer rate of the studied compounds using both experimental and theoretical data. These experimental and theoretical results show that the ligand and its metal complexes can be used for optoelectronic applications and charge transfer materials in organic light-emitting diode applications.
Distinct cerebral 18F-FDG PET metabolic patterns in anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis patients with different trigger factors
Authors: Ge Jingjie , Deng Bo , Guan Yihui , Bao Weiqi , Wu Ping , Chen Xiangjun , Zuo Chuantao
Published: February 2021

Aim:

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is a subgroup of treatable autoimmune encephalitis, characterized by rapid development of psychosis, cognitive impairments and seizures. Etiologically, anti-NMDAR encephalitis could be divided into three subgroups, which are paraneoplastic (especially associated with ovarian teratoma), viral encephalitis-related and cryptogenic. Each type is different in clinical course, treatment strategies and prognosis. In this study, we aim to investigate whether anti-NMDAR encephalitis patients with different trigger factors exhibit distinct cerebral metabolic patterns detected by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography imaging.

Methods:

24 patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis in acute phase from Huashan Hospital, Fudan University (Shanghai, China) were recruited in this study. Each patient was classified into one of etiological subgroups. Positron emission tomography images of individual patients were analyzed with both routine visual reading and computer-supported reading by comparison with those of the same 10 healthy controls using a voxel-wise statistical parametric mapping analysis.

Results:

Patients in both the cryptogenic (13 patients) and paraneoplastic (five patients) subgroups showed hypermetabolism in the frontal-temporal lobes and basal ganglia, covarying with hypometabolism in the occipital regions. Notably, the abnormal metabolism was usually asymmetric in the cryptogenic subgroup, but relatively symmetric in the paraneoplastic subgroup. Moreover, the other six patients secondary to viral encephalitis presented with significant hypometabolism in the bilateral occipital regions, as well as in the unilateral temporal lobes and part of basal ganglia (also is virus infection side), but hypermetabolism in the contralateral temporal areas.

Conclusion:

This study revealed that patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis triggered by different factors presented distinct cerebral metabolic patterns. Awareness of these patterns may help to better understand the varying occurrence and development of anti-NMDAR encephalitis in each subgroup, and could offer valuable information to the early diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of this disorder.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2000029115 (Chinese clinical trial registry site, http://www.chictr.org )
An Urban Explanation of Jokowi’s Rise: Implications for Politics and Governance in Post-Suharto Indonesia
Authors: Lee So Yoon
Published: February 2021

Earlier explanations of Jokowi’s rise to presidency in 2014 have mostly focused on his distinct qualities or the types of political support he received from Indonesian society. However, such explanations, albeit informative, pay insufficient attention to a key factor in Jokowi’s rise: Indonesia’s urbanisation. In this article, I first propose an urban analytical framework comprising three factors: urban-led national economic growth, decentralisation, and Jakarta-centrism in Indonesian media and politics. Then, I examine whether this framework can be applied to Jokowi’s rise by drawing on existing scholarship and data. Finally, I argue that urbanisation has shaped several key constituencies and grievances in Indonesia, contributing significantly to Jokowi’s rise. My argument concerns the following two ideas: first, the urban has become a new pathway to power in Indonesia for local politicians such as Jokowi; second, urban-centrism in Indonesia has made urban areas, especially Jakarta, important stages for political performance.
The Relationship Between Cognitive and Affective Dimensions of Reading Self-Concept With Reading Achievement in English and Russian
Authors: Karimova Könül , Csapó Benő
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to evaluate whether cognitive and affective dimensions of reading self-concepts in English and Russian are distinct constructs and to examine whether the relationships among cognitive and affective variables are invariant across gender. A total of 349 tenth-grade Azeri students were selected from 12 schools in Baku, Azerbaijan. This study adapted the Self-Description Questionnaire and Cényelvi mérés for assessment of reading self-concepts and achievements in two foreign languages. The results of structural equation modeling demonstrated that cognitive and affective self-concepts were independent, but strongly interrelated constructs. The separated components of the reading self-concept construct showed a more explicit structure than a conflated model. The relationships among cognitive and affective self-concepts with achievements in the reading domain were invariant across gender. The results of this study can encourage future research on the examination of more domain-specific self-concepts that conceptualizes twofold multidimensional structure.
Two New Terpenoids From the Fruits of Chaenomeles sinensis (Thouin) Koehne
Authors: Li Meng , Zhang Zhi-guang , Shi Jing-ya , Li Ya-ge , Zhang Jing-ke , Ying Yang , Deng Xiao-yan , Zheng Xiao-ke , Feng Wei-sheng
Published: February 2021

A new sesquiterpenoid, chaenomelesterpenoid A (1), and a new norisoprenoid, chaenomelesterpenoid B (2), were isolated from the fruits of Chaenomeles sinensis (Thouin) Koehne. Their structures were determined by NMR spectroscopy and MS. In addition, the protective effects of the compounds were tested against corticosterone-induced damage in PC-12 cells using real-time cellular analysis (RTCA). Compounds 1 and 2 significantly improved cell viability and corticosterone-induced damage in PC-12 cells with EC50 values of 15.7 and 12.6 µM, respectively.
Relationship Between Genetic Variation and Diversity of Tree Species in Tropical Forests in the El Ocote Biosphere Reserve, Chiapas, Mexico
Authors: Cruz-Salazar Bárbara , Ruiz-Montoya Lorena , Ramírez-Marcial Neptalí , García-Bautista Maricela
Published: February 2021

Knowledge of the genetic diversity of species in a biological community is useful for assessing the ecological and evolutionary processes that define the structure and dynamics of that community. We investigated the potential relationship between the trans-specific genetic diversity (or genetic diversity across tree species) and the diversity of tree species in a tropical subdeciduous forest. The nucleotide variation of the concatenated regions ITS 1 and ITS 3 (ITS1-3) was used to determine the trans-specific genetic diversity of 19 species of trees in five local communities at El Ocote Biosphere Reserve (REBISO), Chiapas, Mexico. Tree diversity was obtained by counting individual trees within 0.1 ha circular plots in each locality. The relationship between trans-specific genetic diversity and species diversity was established through simple linear regressions between genetic diversity parameters and community diversity. A correlation matrix was built with genetic distances (Kimura’s two-parameter model) and differences in species diversity between communities. A significant relationship was observed between nucleotide diversity (π) and species richness ( Sp), and a negative association between haplotype diversity and gamma diversity (γ). Our results show species-rich and genetically diverse tree communities and a weak association between trans-specific genetic variation and species diversity in tree communities at REBISO. This research suggests a possible ecological and genetic relationship within each community. Genetic diversity values may provide an important degree of variation upon which environmental selection pressures could operate, which may be helpful to face the current environmental modifications associated with climatic change.
On the Origins of Terms in Binocular Vision
Authors: Wade Nicholas J.
Published: February 2021

Vision with two eyes has been commented upon for many centuries, and the principal concern has been with binocular single vision. The terminology we apply to binocular vision developed rapidly after the invention of the stereoscope in the early 19th century. The origins of terms such as anaglyph, binocular lustre, chromatic stereoscope, cyclopean eye, dichoptic, horopter, pseudoscope, rivalry, stereoscope, stereograph, and stereopsis are described together with portraits of those who introduced them.
Effect of detergent type on the performance of liver decellularized extracellular matrix-based bio-inks
Authors: Jeong Wonwoo , Kim Min Kyeong , Kang Hyun-Wook
Published: February 2021

Decellularized extracellular matrix-based bio-inks (dECM bio-inks) for bioprinting technology have recently gained attention owing to their excellent ability to confer tissue-specific functions and 3D-printing capability. Although decellularization has led to a major advancement in bio-ink development, the effects of detergent type, the most important factor in decellularization, are still unclear. In this study, the effects of various detergent types on bio-ink performance were investigated. Porcine liver-derived dECM bio-inks prepared using widely used detergents, including sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), sodium deoxycholate (SDC), Triton X-100 (TX), and TX with ammonium hydroxide (TXA), were characterized in detail. SDS and SDC severely damaged glycosaminoglycan and elastin proteins, TX showed the lowest rate of decellularization, and TXA-based dECM bio-ink possessed the highest ECM content among all bio-inks. Differences in biochemical composition directly affected bio-ink performance, with TXA-dECM bio-ink showing the best performance with respect to gelation kinetics, intermolecular bonding, mechanical properties, and 2D/3D printability. More importantly, cytocompatibility tests using primary mouse hepatocytes also showed that the TXA-dECM bio-ink improved albumin secretion and cytochrome P450 activity by approximately 2.12- and 1.67-fold, respectively, compared with the observed values for other bio-inks. Our results indicate that the detergent type has a great influence on dECM damage and that the higher the dECM content, the better the performance of the bio-ink for 3D bioprinting.
Bilateral superiorly based malar transposition flaps for nasal tip reconstruction: A case report
Authors: Roy David B , Dodia Paarth , Roberts Michael
Published: February 2021

The Peng flap was originally described in 1987 as a viable option for re-creation of the convexity of the dorsum and nasal tip in a one step. Defects extending into the sidewall can result in multi-stage procedures. Beustes-Stefanelli in 2015 published a midline-based nasolabial transposition flap utilizing a single-stage repair for large defects of the nasal tip. There is minimal literature on large nasal tip defects repaired in a single stage and few modifications to the Peng flap. In this case, the sidewall involvement on top of the extent of nasal tissue removed limits the various different methods.
The use of social media as a tool for stakeholder engagement in health service design and quality improvement: A scoping review
Authors: Walsh Louisa , Hyett Nerida , Juniper Nicole , Li Chi , Rodier Sophie , Hill Sophie
Published: February 2021

Background

Health-related social media use is common but few health organisations have embraced its potential for engaging stakeholders in service design and quality improvement (QI). Social media may provide new ways to engage more diverse stakeholders and conduct health design and QI activities.

Objective

To map how social media is used by health services, providers and consumers to contribute to service design or QI activities.

Methods

The scoping review was undertaken using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. An advisory committee of stakeholders provided guidance throughout the review. Inclusion criteria were studies of any health service stakeholders, in any health setting, where social media was used as a tool for communications which influenced or advocated for changes to health service design or delivery. A descriptive numerical summary of the communication models, user populations and QI activities was created from the included studies, and the findings were further synthesised using deductive qualitative content analysis.

Results

40 studies were included. User populations included organisations, clinical and non-clinical providers, young people, people with chronic illness/disability and First Nations people. Twitter was the most common platform for design and QI activities. Most activities were conducted using two-way communication models. A typology of social media use is presented, identifying nine major models of use.

Conclusion

This review identifies the ways in which social media is being used as a tool to engage stakeholders in health service design and QI, with different models of use appropriate for different activities, user populations and stages of the QI cycle.
Development and desensitization therapy of high-response factor VIII inhibitors with severe allergic reaction in a moderate hemophilia A patient
Authors: Liu Guoqing , Chen Zhenping , Wu Wenman , Wu Runhui
Published: February 2021

Neutralizing antibodies (inhibitors) against factor VIII/IX (FVIII/FIX) poses a serious and challenging complication in the hemophilia treatment. Allergic reaction is more common in hemophilia B and always companion with FIX inhibitors, but it is rare in hemophilia A (HA). So far only few cases demonstrated FVIII-specific allergic response in hemophilia A. Coexistence of allergic reactions with inhibitors was contraindicated for immune tolerance induction (ITI) regimen which is the only proven therapy to eliminate inhibitor. We report a rare case of a 11-year-old boy with moderate HA who developed high titer inhibitor and severe allergic reaction to both plasma derived and recombinant FVIII concentrates. Inhibitor was eliminated with the use of prednisone. Further desensitization protocol by administering rFVIII of increasing does from 0.01 IU/kg to 40 IU/kg with a pre-determined time schedule allowed patient tolerance to the normal dose and infusion time to FVIII.
Expression of proteins associated with airway fibrosis differs between children with allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis
Authors: Sobkowiak Paulina , Narożna Beata , Wojsyk-Banaszak Irena , Bręborowicz Anna , Szczepankiewicz Aleksandra
Published: February 2021

Allergic rhinitis (AR) and allergic asthma (AA) exhibit similar inflammatory response in the airways. However, the remodelling is more extensive in the lower airways, suggesting that the inflammation itself is not sufficient for allergic phenotype. We aimed to analyse whether the expression of selected 27 inflammatory and fibrosis-related proteins may be altered in AR and AA in the paediatric population and whether the expression pattern is either similar (due to the inflammation) or disease-specific (due to the remodelling). We analysed 80 paediatric subjects: 39 with AA, 21 with AR and 20 healthy children. The diagnosis of AR and AA was based on clinical manifestation, lung function, positive skin prick tests and increased immunoglobulin E levels. Serum levels of selected inflammatory proteins were measured with custom Magnetic Luminex Assay. Statistical analysis was performed in Statistica v.13. CCL2/MCP1, GM-CSF, gp130 and periostin concentrations were significantly lower, whereas IL-5 levels were higher in AA compared to the control group. CD-40L, CHI3L1/YKL-40, EGF, GM-CSF and periostin levels were significantly decreased in patients with AR than in the control group. Comparison of AA and AR patients revealed significant changes in CHI3L1/YKL-40 ( P = 0.021), IL-5 ( P = 0.036), periostin ( P = 0.013) and VEGFα ( P = 0.046). Significantly altered proteins were good predictors to distinguish between AA and AR ( P < 0.001, OR 46.00, accuracy 88.57%). Our results suggest that the expression of four fibrotic proteins was significantly altered between AA and AR, suggesting possible differences in airway remodelling between upper and lower airways.
Isometric Yoga-Like Maneuvers Improve Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis—A Nonrandomized Control Trial
Authors: Fishman Loren M
Published: February 2021

Objective

Assess therapeutic value of specific yoga poses for thoracic and lumbar adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) taught in office or Internet.

Study Design

Nonrandomized control trial: Fifty-six adolescents (mean age 14.0 years; mean Risser 3.0) were recruited from our clinic; 41 did the side-plank, the half-moon and elevated side plank poses as appropriate (treatment group) and 15 did not (controls). Thirty curves were treated in office, 30 via Internet. Curve change was evaluated by blinded serial Cobb angles, and analyzed using Mann-Whitney U, paired t-tests and χ2.

Results

Mean lumbar and thoracolumbar Cobb angle change was −9.2 (95% CI = −11.8, −6.6) in the treatment group and 5.4 (95% CI = 1.7, 9.0) in controls. Both treatment group improvement and deterioration in controls were significant (treatment group: paired t-test t = −7.1, df = 40, p = .000; controls: t = 3.2, df = 12, p = .008). Mean thoracic Cobb angle change was −7.1 (95% CI = −13.1, −1.2) in the treatment group and 9.3 (95% CI = 4.5, 14.6) in controls. Both changes were significant (paired t-test t = −3.3, df = 21, p = .022 for treatment group; t = 4.5, df = 5, p = .006 for controls). Nine Internet patients were non-compliant vs. 6 office patients. Office patients improved 1.6 degrees/month or 5.5%/month; Internet patients improved .72 degrees/month or 3.3%/month.

Conclusion

These yoga poses show promise for reversing adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Telemedicine had greater non-compliance and lower efficacy but still produced patient improvement.
Pedicle Screw Track Augmentation With Fibular Allograft for Significant Bone Loss in Revision Fixation
Authors: Elgafy Hossein , Lempert Nathaniel , Stirton Jacob , Zak Peter , Semaan Hassan
Published: February 2021

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

To report the clinical and radiological outcomes for screw track augmentation with fibular allograft in revision of loose pedicle screws associated with significant bone loss along the screw track.

Methods:

Thirty consecutive patients, 18 men (60%) and 12 women (40%), with a mean age 52 years (range 34- 68). Fibular allograft was prepared by cutting it into longitudinal strips 50 mm in length. Three allograft struts were inserted into the screw track. Six mm tap used to tap between the 3 fibular struts. Eight- or 9-mm diameter, and 45 or 50 mm in length screw was then inserted. The clinical outcomes were assessed by means of the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and visual analog scale (VAS) for back and leg pain for clinical outcome. Computed tomography scan (CT) performed at 12 months postoperative visit to assess fibular graft incorporation along the pedicle screw track, any screw loosening and the interbody as well as posterolateral fusion.

Results:

At a mean follow up of 29 months, there were statically significant improvement in the ODI and VAS for back and leg pain. CT scan obtained at last follow-up showed incorporation of fibular allograft and solid fusion in all patients except one.

Conclusion:

The fibular allograft augmentation of the pedicle screw track in revision of loose pedicle screws associated with significant bone loss is a viable option. It allows for biologic fixation at the screw-bone interface and has some key advantages when compared to currently available methods.
Gravity Models in International Trade: An Exploration in Econo-Physics
Authors: Pal Iman , Kar Saibal
Published: February 2021

Several strands of the static and dynamic theoretical constructs and the empirical applications in the subject of economics owe substantially to the well-known principles of physical sciences. The present article explores as to how the development of the popular gravity models in international trade can be traced back to Newton’s law of gravitation, and to both Ohm’s Law and Kirchhoff’s Law of current electricity, as well as to the pattern recognition techniques commonly deployed in scientific applications. In addition to surveying these theoretical analogies, the article also offers numerical applications for observed trade patterns between India and a set of countries.

JEL Classifications: F41, F42, C61, F47
Difference in patient-reported outcomes of various patellar component designs in total knee arthroplasty: A randomized clinical study
Authors: Mochizuki Takeshi , Yano Koichiro , Ikari Katsunori , Okazaki Ken
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

This study investigated the clinical effects of different patellar components without being affected by the femoral component design in total knee arthritis (TKA) for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods:

In total, 48 patients with OA who met the criteria of the American College of Rheumatology for OA were enrolled and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to two groups according to the usage of patellar component design for TKA (medialized dome type [dome group] or medialized anatomic type [anatomic group]). To evaluate the clinical outcomes for TKA, knee range of motion (ROM), pain intensity of 0–100 mm visual analog scale (pain VAS), and the Japanese Knee Osteoarthritis Measure (JKOM) score were obtained at baseline and year 1.

Results:

The difference in knee ROM, pain VAS, or total JKOM score at year 1 was not significant between the dome and anatomic groups ( p = 0.398, 0.733 and 0.536, respectively). Moreover, similar results were obtained for changes in knee ROM, pain VAS, or total JKOM scores from baseline. In both groups, the pain VAS and total JKOM scores were significantly improved at year 1.

Conclusion:

Both dome and anatomic groups in TKA are significantly effective for pain and function using the JKOM score. However, their efficacy did not differ, according to the JKOM score. Results of this study are rare information focusing on the patellar component design and provide one of the insights into the TKA clinical management.
Book review: Bjorn Bjerke, Alternative Marketing Approaches for Entrepreneurs
Authors: Siddiqui Faiz Mohd.
Published: February 2021

Bjorn Bjerke, Alternative Marketing Approaches for Entrepreneurs, Edward Elgar Publishing, 2018, 320 pp., £23.96. ISBN 9781786438959 (Paperback).
An Unexpected Case of Malignant Mesothelioma in a Young Woman
Authors: Dhamrah Umaima , Solomon Nadia , Osuoji Olive C.
Published: February 2021

A 41-year-old female with a past medical history significant only for right retinal vein occlusion presented with chest pain, cough, and shortness of breath. After being found to have a large right-sided pleural effusion and undergoing a nondiagnostic thoracentesis, a noncontrast chest computed tomography scan revealed multiple diffuse nodules in the right lung with irregular paraspinal pleural thickening. An extensive workup followed, with computed tomography–guided biopsy ultimately revealing the diagnosis. The following report describes the patient presentation, laboratory findings, and extensive clinical investigation, and provides a discussion of the epidemiology, imaging findings, prognosis, and differential diagnoses for the illness in question.
Weight Gain in Incarcerated Individuals Living With HIV After Switching to Integrase Strand Inhibitor-Based Therapy
Authors: Goldberg Rachel N. , Kania Alexandra T. , Michienzi Sarah M. , Patel Mahesh , Badowski Melissa E.
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

Post-marketing data have demonstrated the potential for weight gain with integrase inhibitors (INSTI) use in antiretroviral (ART) therapy.

Methods:

A medical chart review evaluated virologically suppressed adult prisoners living with HIV and on a non-INSTI regimen before switching or adding an INSTI. Primary outcome assessed average weight change; Secondary outcomes evaluated change in body mass index (BMI), fasting lipid panel, and development of hypertension. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests and descriptive statistics.

Results:

Among 103 study participants, 95% were men with a median age of 44 years. Each INSTI was associated with an average weight increase of 4.3 kg (p < 0.025). Bictegravir and dolutegravir were also associated with significant increases in BMI, +1.4kg/m2 and +2.8kg/m2, respectively (p = 0.011 and p = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Patients receiving HIV care in a correctional setting and on INSTI-based treatments experienced weight gain and increases in BMI. Future research should focus on the mechanism of development and interventions to prevent weight gain.
What Is the Story You Want to Tell? Utilizing the Narrative Arc as an Academic Writing Framework for Graduate Students in Health Promotion
Authors: Mandelbaum Jennifer , Fuller Tyler J.
Published: February 2021

Writing well is an important skill for graduate students to learn. We contend that viewing the writing process through the lens of storytelling and narrative helps graduate students make clearer, more compelling cases in their academic writing. Mapping the movements of the classic narrative arc onto the Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion (IMRAD) format of health promotion writing can help authors engage in the writing process more thoroughly because we are socially trained to organize information in narrative forms. This commentary examines the narrative framework in relation to writing, reading, and synthesizing academic literature. We conclude that graduate students will benefit from seeing themselves as health promotion storytellers.
Facial Nerve Sacrifice During Parotidectomy for Metastatic Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yesensky Jessica , Solis Roberto N. , Bewley Arnaud
Published: February 2021

Objective

We analyzed the incidence of facial nerve sacrifice during parotidectomy for metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC).

Study Design

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Setting

We used our CSCC institutional database, which includes patients treated at the University of California–Davis from 2001 to 2018.

Methods

We evaluated patients who presented with biopsy‐proven head and neck CSCC who underwent parotidectomy as a part of surgical treatment. We assessed the frequency of facial nerve sacrifice required in patients with normal preoperative facial nerve function with metastatic disease to the parotid. We evaluated the association between sacrifice and high‐risk tumor variables using multivariate analysis.

Results

We identified 53 patients with parotid metastasis and normal preoperative facial nerve function. Thirteen percent of patients required sacrifice of the main trunk of the facial nerve and 27% required sacrifice of a branch of the facial nerve. All patients who underwent facial nerve sacrifice had extracapsular spread (ECS). Perineural invasion (PNI) in the primary tumor (odds ratio [OR], 9.11; P =. 041) and location of metastasis within the parotid body (OR, 6.6; P =. 044) were independently associated with facial nerve sacrifice.

Conclusion

Patients with regionally metastatic CSCC to the parotid gland frequently require sacrifice of all or a component of the facial nerve despite normal preoperative function. The likelihood of nerve sacrifice is highest for tumors with PNI and metastatic disease within the body of the parotid.
Dealing with Misselling: Impact of Behavioural Interventions on Insurance Agents
Authors: Dominic Biju , Reshmi
Published: February 2021

This case study is about misselling of insurance policies and associated ethical challenges in a leading insurance company. Pro-organisational ethical violations mostly remain unnoticed and are often protected by implausible explanations. In the long run, persistent rationalisation makes malpractices a norm. The present work describes the interventions applied by a consulting firm to bring behavioural integrity. The consulting firm found that socialisation, rationalisation and institutionalisation considerably influenced people’s behaviour at the workplace and normalised unethical behaviour of insurance agents. It architected the behaviour of salespeople by specifically designed interventions through self-control mechanism and nudges. These interventions developed integrity in employees and reduced the number of cautions, warnings and terminations.
Heterogeneity within and between physician-diagnosed asthma and/or COPD: NOVELTY cohort
Authors: Reddel Helen K. , Vestbo Jørgen , Agustí Alvar , Anderson Gary P. , Bansal Aruna T. , Beasley Richard , Bel Elisabeth H. , Janson Christer , Make Barry , Pavord Ian D. , Price David , Rapsomaniki Eleni , Karlsson Niklas , Finch Donna K. , Nuevo Javier , de Giorgio-Miller Alex , Alacqua Marianna , Hughes Rod , Müllerová Hana , Gerhardsson de Verdier Maria ,   for the NOVELTY study investigators
Published: February 2021

Background

Studies of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) typically focus on these diagnoses separately, limiting understanding of disease mechanisms and treatment options. NOVELTY is a global, 3-year, prospective observational study of patients with asthma and/or COPD from real-world clinical practice. We investigated heterogeneity and overlap by diagnosis and severity in this cohort.

Methods

Patients with physician-assigned asthma, COPD or both (asthma+COPD) were enrolled, and stratified by diagnosis and severity. Baseline characteristics were reported descriptively by physician-assigned diagnosis and/or severity. Factors associated with physician-assessed severity were evaluated using ordinal logistic regression analysis.

Results

Of 11 243 patients, 5940 (52.8%) had physician-assigned asthma, 1396 (12.4%) had asthma+COPD and 3907 (34.8%) had COPD; almost half were from primary care. Symptoms, health-related quality of life and spirometry showed substantial heterogeneity and overlap between asthma, asthma+COPD and COPD, with 23%, 62% and 64% of patients, respectively, having a ratio of post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 s to forced vital capacity below the lower limit of normal. Symptoms and exacerbations increased with greater physician-assessed severity and were higher in asthma+COPD. However, 24.3% with mild asthma and 20.4% with mild COPD had experienced ≥1 exacerbation in the past 12 months. Medication records suggested both under-treatment and over-treatment relative to severity. Blood eosinophil counts varied little across diagnosis and severity groups, but blood neutrophil counts increased with severity across all diagnoses.

Conclusion

This analysis demonstrates marked heterogeneity within, and overlap between, physician-assigned diagnosis and severity groups in patients with asthma and/or COPD. Current diagnostic and severity classifications in clinical practice poorly differentiate between clinical phenotypes that may have specific risks and treatment implications.
Stratigraphic revision and reconstruction of the deep-sea fan of the Voirons Flysch (Voirons Nappe, Chablais Prealps)
Authors: Ragusa Jérémy , Ospina-Ostios Lina Maria , Kindler Pascal , Sartori Mario
Published: February 2021

The Voirons Flysch (Caron in Eclogae Geologicae Helvetiae 69:297–308, 1976), is a flysch sequence aggregated into the sedimentary accretionary prism of the Chablais and Swiss Prealps. Its palaeogeographic location is still debated (South Piemont or Valais realm). We herein present a stratigraphic revision of the westernmost unit of the former Gurnigel Nappe sensu Caron (Eclogae Geologicae Helvetiae 69:297–308, 1976): the Voirons Flysch. This flysch is subdivided into three lithostratigraphic units at the formation level (the Voirons Sandstone, the Vouan Conglomerate, the Boëge Marl), with an additional unit (Bruant Sandstone) of uncertain attribution, ranging from the early Eocene to probably the late Eocene. We further propose a new model of the depositional setting of the deep-sea of the Voirons Flysch based on palaeocurrent directions, the overall geometry and sedimentary features. This model depicts an eastward deflected deep-sea fan. The stratigraphic record of the proximal part of this fan is fairly complete in the Voirons area, whereas its most distal part is only represented by one small exposure of thinly bedded sandstones in the Fenalet quarry. The stratigraphic evolution of the Voirons Flysch shows two major disruptions of the detrital sedimentation at the transition between Voirons Sandstone—Vouan Conglomerate and Vouan Conglomerate—Boëge Marl. The cause of these disturbances has to be constrained in the framework of the palaeogeographic location of the Voirons Flysch.
Novel targeted therapies for Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Ntetsika Theodora , Papathoma Paraskevi-Evita , Markaki Ioanna
Published: February 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second more common neurodegenerative disease with increasing incidence worldwide associated to the population ageing. Despite increasing awareness and significant research advancements, treatment options comprise dopamine repleting, symptomatic therapies that have significantly increased quality of life and life expectancy, but no therapies that halt or reverse disease progression, which remain a great, unmet goal in PD research. Large biomarker development programs are undertaken to identify disease signatures that will improve patient selection and outcome measures in clinical trials. In this review, we summarize PD-related mechanisms that can serve as targets of therapeutic interventions aiming to slow or modify disease progression, as well as previous and ongoing clinical trials in each field, and discuss future perspectives.