bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual and organizational features of a favorable work environment in nursing homes: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Potrebny Thomas , Igland Jannicke , Espehaug Birgitte , Ciliska Donna , Graverholt Birgitte
Published: October 2022

Background

The organizational context in healthcare (i.e., the work environment) is associated with patient outcomes and job satisfaction. Long-term care is often considered to be a challenging work environment, characterized by high job demands, low job control, a fast work pace and job dissatisfaction, which may affect patient care and increase staff turnover.This study aims to investigate the organizational context in nursing homes and the features of favorable or less favorable work environments.

Methods

This study is a cross-sectional study of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses in Bergen, Norway (n = 1014). The K-means clustering algorithm was used to differentiate between favorable and less favorable work environments, based on the Alberta Context Tool. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the associations between individual sociodemographic factors, nursing home factors and the probability of experiencing a favorable work environment.

Results

45% of the sample (n = 453) experienced working in a favorable work environment. Contextual features (especially a supportive work culture, more evaluation mechanisms and greater organizational slack resources) and individual features (having a native language other than Norwegian, working day shifts, working full time and belonging to a younger age group) significantly increased the likelihood of experiencing a favorable work environment.

Conclusion

The work environment in nursing homes is composed of modifiable contextual features. Action in relation to less favorable features and their associated factors should be a priority for nursing home management. This survey indicates that specific steps can be taken to reduce the reliance on part-time workers and to promote the work environment among staff working the night shift.
Comparative transcriptomics in human COPD reveals dysregulated genes uniquely expressed in ferrets
Authors: Hussain Shah S. , Edwards Yvonne J. K. , Libby Emily Falk , Stanford Denise , Byzek Stephen A. , Sin Don D. , McDonald Merry-Lynn , Raju S. Vamsee , Rowe Steven M.
Published: October 2022

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease with poor treatment options. However, most mouse models of COPD produce a primarily emphysematous disease not recapitulating clinically meaningful COPD features like chronic bronchitis.

Methods

Wild-type ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) were divided randomly into two groups: whole body cigarette smoke exposure and air controls. Ferrets were exposed to smoke from 1R6F research cigarettes, twice daily for six months. RNA-sequencing was performed on RNA isolated from lung tissue. Comparative transcriptomics analyses of COPD in ferrets, mice, and humans were done to find the uniquely expressed genes. Further, Real-time PCR was performed to confirmed RNA-Seq data on multiple selected genes.

Results

RNA-sequence analysis identified 420 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that were associated with the development of COPD in ferrets. By comparative analysis, we identified 25 DEGs that are uniquely expressed in ferrets and humans, but not mice. Among DEGs, a number were related to mucociliary clearance (NEK-6, HAS1, and KL), while others have been correlated with abnormal lung function (IL-18), inflammation (TREM1, CTSB), or oxidative stress (SRX1, AHRR). Multiple cellular pathways were aberrantly altered in the COPD ferret model, including pathways associated with COPD pathogenesis in humans. Validation of these selected unique DEGs using real-time PCR demonstrated > absolute 2-fold changes in mRNA versus air controls, consistent with RNA-seq analysis.

Conclusion

Cigarette smoke-induced COPD in ferrets modulates gene expression consistent with human COPD and suggests that the ferret model may be uniquely well suited for the study of aspects of the disease.
New hyaluronan-based biomatrix for 3-D follicle culture yields functionally competent oocytes
Authors: Desai Nina , Spangler Maribeth , Nanavaty Vaani , Gishto Arsela , Brown Alyssa
Published: October 2022

Background

Encapsulation of follicles within a biomatrix is one approach to maintaining 3-D follicle architecture during culture. Hyaluronan is one component of the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) that provides support to cells in vivo. This report describes the application of a novel tyramine-linked hyaluronan for 3-D in vitro follicle culture and the production of developmentally competent metaphase II oocytes.

Materials and Methods

Enzymatically isolated mouse preantral follicles or follicle clusters (FL-C) from fresh or vitrified ovaries were encapsulated in 3 mg/ml of hyaluronan gel (HA). Follicle growth, antrum formation and meiotic maturation to metaphase II oocytes was monitored. Chromatin staining was used to assess GV oocyte progression towards meiotic competence. Functional competence of in vitro matured (IVM) oocytes was evaluated by in vitro fertilization and ability to develop to blastocyst. Modifying the HA gel by inclusion of laminin (HA-LM), mouse sarcoma extracellular matrix (Matrigel;HA-MG) or placental extracellular matrix (HA-PM) was also tested to see if this might further enhance IVM outcomes.

Results

A total of 402 preantral follicles were cultured in HA gel. After hCG trigger, 314 oocyte-cumulus complexes ovulated from the embedded follicles. Meiotic maturation rate to the metaphase II stage was 73% (228/314). After insemination 83% (188/228) of IVM oocytes fertilized with a subsequent blastulation rate of 46% (87/188). A pilot transfer study with 3 recipient mice resulted in the birth of a single pup. HA gel supported individually isolated follicles as well ovarian tissue fragments containing clusters of 6–8 preantral follicles. Meiotic maturation was lower with FL-clusters from vitrified versus fresh ovaries (34% and 55%, respectively; p < 0.007). Modification of the HA gel with ECMs or laminin affected antrum formation and follicle retention. Maturation rates to the metaphase II stage were however not significantly different: 74% for HA gel alone as compared to HA-LM (67%), HA-MG (56%) and HA-PM (58%).

Conclusion

Hyaluronan gel is an effective and versatile extracellular matrix based biomaterial for 3-D culture of ovarian follicles. This culture model allowed ovulation of functionally competent metaphase II oocytes, capable of fertilization, genomic activation and blastulation. Future testing with human follicles that require longer in vitro culture times should be considered.
SAFit2 reduces neuroinflammation and ameliorates nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain
Authors: Wedel Saskia , Mathoor Praveen , Rauh Oliver , Heymann Tim , Ciotu Cosmin I. , Fuhrmann Dominik C. , Fischer Michael J. M. , Weigert Andreas , de Bruin Natasja , Hausch Felix , Geisslinger Gerd , Sisignano Marco
Published: October 2022

Background

Neuropathic pain is experienced worldwide by patients suffering from nerve injuries, infectious or metabolic diseases or chemotherapy. However, the treatment options are still limited because of low efficacy and sometimes severe side effects. Recently, the deficiency of FKBP51 was shown to relieve chronic pain, revealing FKBP51 as a potential therapeutic target. However, a specific and potent FKBP51 inhibitor was not available until recently which hampered targeting of FKBP51.

Methods

In this study, we used the well-established and robust spared nerve injury model to analyze the effect of SAFit2 on nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain and to elucidate its pharmacodynamics profile. Therefore, the mice were treated with 10 mg/kg SAFit2 after surgery, the mice behavior was assessed over 21 days and biochemical analysis were performed after 14 and 21 days. Furthermore, the impact of SAFit2 on sensory neurons and macrophages was investigated in vitro.

Results

Here, we show that the FKBP51 inhibitor SAFit2 ameliorates nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain in vivo by reducing neuroinflammation. SAFit2 reduces the infiltration of immune cells into neuronal tissue and counteracts the increased NF-κB pathway activation which leads to reduced cytokine and chemokine levels in the DRGs and spinal cord. In addition, SAFit2 desensitizes the pain-relevant TRPV1 channel and subsequently reduces the release of pro-inflammatory neuropeptides from sensory neurons.

Conclusions

SAFit2 ameliorates neuroinflammation and counteracts enhanced neuronal activity after nerve injury leading to an amelioration of nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain. Based on these findings, SAFit2 constitutes as a novel and promising drug candidate for the treatment of nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain.
Video-assisted thoracoscopic segmentectomy with combined chest wall resection: A case report
Authors: Ohtaki Yoichi , Yajima Toshiki , Obayashi Kai , Nakazawa Seshiru , Ikota Hayato , Shirabe Ken
Published: October 2022

Background

Resection of lung cancer with chest wall involvement is an invasive procedure.

Case presentation

We report a case of pulmonary adenocarcinoma with chest wall involvement that was resected through video-assisted thoracoscopic segmentectomy and combined en bloc resection of the chest wall (2nd to 4th ribs). Surgical stress was decreased by reducing the extent of lung parenchymal resection and applying a video-assisted technique with an additional posterior paravertebral incision.

Conclusion

A thoracoscopic surgical approach involving incisions in areas requiring resection of the proximal, lateral, and posterior sides of the involved ribs can be applied to tumors invading the chest wall.
Autonomic thermoregulatory responses and subjective thermal perceptions upon the initiation of thermal behavior among resting humans in hot and humid environment
Authors: Sedilla Keneth B. , Maeda Takafumi
Published: October 2022

Background

While thermoregulatory behavior is critical for maintaining homeostasis, our knowledge of behavioral thermoeffectors in humid heat is limited compared to the control of autonomic thermoeffectors. The predictions that the frequency and duration of intensified humid heat events are expected to increase in the coming years underline this shortcoming. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the activation of autonomic thermoregulatory responses and subjective thermal perceptions upon deciding to initiate thermal behavior in a hot and humid environment.

Methods

Ten young male adults participated in an experimental trial where local cooling was permitted at any time during the behavioral assessment during passive exposure to humid heat. The air temperature and relative humidity were kept at 33$$^{\circ }$$

∘

C and 80$$\%$$
%
, respectively. Skin temperatures, core body temperature (T$$_{\text {core}}$$

core

), and skin blood flow (forearm, upper arm, and upper back) were obtained 120 s preceding thermal behavior. Local sweat rate (forearm and upper arm) and subjective thermal perceptions (neck and whole-body) upon thermal behavior initiation were also recorded.

Results

Mean skin temperature ($${\overline{\mathrm {T}}}_{\text {sk}}$$

T
¯

sk

) and T$$_{\text {core}}$$

core

increased prior to thermal behavior initiation (p$$=$$
=
0.002; p$$=$$
=
0.001). An increase in mean body temperature ($${\overline{\mathrm {T}}}_{\text {body}}$$

T
¯

body

) was also observed (p < 0.001). However, the initiation of thermal behavior is not preceded by an increase in skin blood flow (p$$\ge$$
≥
0.154) and local sweat rate (p$$\ge$$
≥
0.169). An increase in thermal discomfort and skin wetness perception was observed (p$$\le$$
≤
0.048; p$$\le$$
≤
0.048), while thermal sensation did not differ from the baseline (p$$\ge$$
≥
0.357).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that when given the opportunity to behaviorally thermoregulate in a hot and humid environment, changes in skin blood flow and sweat rate are not required for thermal behavior to be initiated in resting humans. Moreover, an increase in $${\overline{\mathrm {T}}}_{\text {sk}}$$

T
¯

sk

and T$$_{\text {core}}$$

core

, which appears to cause an increase in thermal discomfort, precedes thermal behavior. In addition, an increase in $${\overline{\mathrm {T}}}_{\text {body}}$$

T
¯

body

leading up to thermal behavior initiation was observed, suggesting that changes in $${\overline{\mathrm {T}}}_{\text {body}}$$

T
¯

body

rather than $${\overline{\mathrm {T}}}_{\text {sk}}$$

T
¯

sk

and T$$_{\text {core}}$$

core

alone mediate thermal behavior in humid heat. Collectively, the results of this study appear to support the hypothesis that the temporal recruitment of autonomic thermoeffectors follows an orderly manner based on their physiological cost.
Cytomegalovirus infection disrupts the influence of short-chain fatty acid producers on Treg/Th17 balance
Authors: Chin Ning , Narayan Nicole R. , Méndez-Lagares Gema , Ardeshir Amir , Chang W. L. William , Deere Jesse D. , Fontaine Justin H. , Chen Connie , Kieu Hung T. , Lu Wenze , Barry Peter A. , Sparger Ellen E. , Hartigan-O’Connor Dennis J.
Published: October 2022

Background

Both the gut microbiota and chronic viral infections have profound effects on host immunity, but interactions between these influences have been only superficially explored. Cytomegalovirus (CMV), for example, infects approximately 80% of people globally and drives significant changes in immune cells. Similarly, certain gut-resident bacteria affect T-cell development in mice and nonhuman primates. It is unknown if changes imposed by CMV on the intestinal microbiome contribute to immunologic effects of the infection.

Results

We show that rhesus cytomegalovirus (RhCMV) infection is associated with specific differences in gut microbiota composition, including decreased abundance of Firmicutes, and that the extent of microbial change was associated with immunologic changes including the proliferation, differentiation, and cytokine production of CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, RhCMV infection disrupted the relationship between short-chain fatty acid producers and Treg/Th17 balance observed in seronegative animals, showing that some immunologic effects of CMV are due to disruption of previously existing host-microbe relationships.

Conclusions

Gut microbes have an important influence on health and disease. Diet is known to shape the microbiota, but the influence of concomitant chronic viral infections is unclear. We found that CMV influences gut microbiota composition to an extent that is correlated with immunologic changes in the host. Additionally, pre-existing correlations between immunophenotypes and gut microbes can be subverted by CMV infection. Immunologic effects of CMV infection on the host may therefore be mediated by two different mechanisms involving gut microbiota.
Implementing service transformation for children and adolescents with eating disorders across England: the theory, politics, and pragmatics of large-scale service reform
Authors: Eisler Ivan , Simic Mima , Fonagy Peter , Bryant-Waugh Rachel
Published: October 2022

Background

Eating disorders are among the most serious mental health problems affecting children and young people and without appropriate treatment often have a protracted course with high levels of morbidity and mortality. While considerable progress has been made in recent years in developing effective evidence-based outpatient treatments, these are not always readily available. In England, until recently, the usual care pathway for young people with an eating disorder was referral from primary care to local generic Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services with varying levels of expertise in eating disorders and a mix of outpatient treatments available. Poor treatment progress or physical deterioration would usually result in inpatient admission. Admission rates were high, with children and young people with an eating disorder accounting for nearly a quarter of all child and adolescent psychiatric hospital admissions. Inpatient treatment is costly and has high relapse rates with some evidence that it may contribute to poorer long-term outcomes in eating disorders. Accumulating clinical and research evidence that early expert outpatient treatment can significantly reduce the need for inpatient care indicates,+ that investing in dedicated community-based eating disorders services is likely to be both clinically and economically beneficial.

Overview of paper

This paper describes a large-scale transformation programme following a major government investment (initially £30 million/year, since then increased to over £50 million/year) aimed at service level change in the provision of eating disorder services for children and adolescents in England. We describe the history, background, political context, and clinical and research evidence that contributed to the government's decision to invest in eating disorders. We also provide a brief account of the implementation of an England-wide whole team training to support the creation of a network of over 70 dedicated community-based eating disorders services for children and young people.
Mechanical properties and moisture-related dimensional change of canvas paintings–canvas and glue sizing
Authors: Janas Arkadiusz , Fuster-López Laura , Andersen Cecil Krarup , Escuder Angel Vicente , Kozłowski Roman , Poznańska Katarzyna , Gajda Aleksandra , Scharff Mikkel , Bratasz Łukasz
Published: October 2022

Understanding canvas paintings as physical systems is fundamental to develop evidence-based environmental specifications for museums. A number of tests were carried out to determine mechanical properties of canvas, canvas sized with animal glue and animal glue-based ground layer (gesso) as a function of relative humidity (RH). The mechanical properties of the canvas samples tested exhibited an anisotropy dependent on the measurement direction, being the stiffness corresponding to the weft direction greater than the warp and diagonal ones. Sizing the canvas with a layer of animal glue significantly increased its modulus of elasticity while the anisotropy of mechanical properties was kept in the composite material. The application of an animal glue-based ground layer on sized canvas increased the elasticity modulus of the system by another order of magnitude (~ 2 GPa) whereas the anisotropy of the material disappeared. The measurements were carried out in a wide range of RH from 30 to 90%. An increase in RH caused a decrease in the material stiffness. Cracking of the gesso layer, which is often responsible for the formation of cracks in paintings, was observed at strains of the order of a few thousandths. Swelling of glue sizing dominated the moisture-induced swelling of the composite material in the less stiff warp direction, completely overriding the shrinkage of the untreated canvas. In contrast, the swelling of the composite material in the stiffer weft direction was much smaller than for pure glue alone, being clearly affected by the textile.
Assessment of compliance to packaging and labeling regulatory requirements of locally manufactured alcohol-based hand sanitizers marketed in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Wallelign Tesfa Marew , Selam Muluken Nigatu , Wondie Gebremariam Birhanu , Habte Bruck Messele
Published: October 2022

Background

Following the emergence of the global Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, alcohol-based hand sanitizers (ABHS) have been extensively used as one of the effective methods of preventing its transmission. The products are dispensed over the counter and used by the general population. Growing concerns have been reported, however, regarding the quality, efficacy and compliance to regulatory requirements calling for objective evidence that can facilitate proactive regulatory measures.

Objectives

The study aimed at assessing the level of compliance to packaging and labeling regulatory requirements of selected locally manufactured ABHS products marketed in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design was employed to randomly collect 25 locally manufactured ABHS products from retail outlets located in Addis Ababa. The manufacturers were grouped under four categories considering their experience in manufacturing, resources and technical capacities. The collected samples were evaluated for compliance to packaging and labeling information regulatory requirements and the results subjected to descriptive analysis.

Results

Majority of the products were found to meet most of the packaging, general product description and manufacturer-related information requirements. However, concerning gaps were observed in storage, precaution and warning-related labeling information requirements. The overall compliance of the selected products (to a total of 29 requirements under 5 categories) was 56.9%. The highest level of compliance was for general product information requirements (80.2%) followed by packaging and manufacturer-related requirements accounting for 76.8% and 75.0%, respectively. Low level of compliance was observed for storage condition and precautions (10.2% and 42.4%, respectively). Better overall compliance to packaging and labeling requirements (62.9%) were observed by large pharmaceutical and cosmetics manufacturers, while the lowest compliance level was recorded for medium level pharmaceuticals and cosmetics manufacturers.

Conclusions

Even though most of the selected products were able to comply with the majority of packaging, product description and manufacturer-related requirements, gaps were observed in essential labeling information requirements. Considering the extensive use of ABHS products among diverse population groups and the potential risks associated with inappropriate use of the products, improving regulatory law enforcement practices, strengthening continuing education of manufacturing personnel and raising public awareness is very timely.
Early post-treatment 18F-FDG PET/CT for predicting radiation-induced hypothyroidism in head and neck cancer
Authors: Lu Hsi-Huei , Chiu Nan-Tsing , Tsai Mu-Hung
Published: October 2022

Background

Radiation-induced hypothyroidism (RIHT) is a common, but underestimated, late adverse effect in head and neck cancer. We investigated the value of early post-treatment 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for predicting RIHT.

Methods

We searched our institutional database for patients aged ≥ 20 years who had undergone definitive radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal cancer between 2005 and 2017, followed by 18F-FDG PET/CT within 180 days of radiotherapy completion. We visually assessed and compared PET/CT and baseline characteristics in patients with and without RIHT using the chi-square test for categorical variables and the t-test for continuous variables. Variable predictive ability was evaluated by measuring the area under receiver operating characteristic curves.

Results

Fifty-two patients were included; 22 (42%) developed RIHT and 30 (58%) did not. Two patients presented with diffuse thyroid uptake on PET/CT via visual assessment, and both developed RIHT later. Among the PET/CT variables, thyroid functioning volume was significantly higher in patients without RIHT than in patients with RIHT (16.30 ± 6.03 cm3 vs. 10.61 ± 3.81 cm3, p < 0.001). The maximum standard uptake values of the thyroid and pituitary glands did not differ significantly between the groups. Two patient characteristics, pretreatment thyroid volume and mean radiotherapy dose to the thyroid, also showed significant differences between the groups. An algorithmic approach combining visual grading of thyroid 18F-FDG uptake and thyroid functioning volume cutoff of 14.01 yielded an area under curve of 0.89 (95% confidence interval, 0.80–0.98); the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 87.0%, 82.3%, 80.0%, and 88.9%, respectively.

Conclusion

Early post-treatment PET/CT-derived thyroid functioning volume was a good predictor of RIHT development. Diffusely increased thyroid 18F-FDG uptake on PET/CT may indicate impending RIHT. Routine surveillance of thyroid function is warranted in patients at high risk of developing RIHT.
Implications of CCTV cameras on child-care centres’ routines, peer relationships, and parent–teacher relationships: child care educators’ opinions
Authors: Meishar-Tal Hagit , Forkosh-Baruch A. , Levy L. , Shenkar T.
Published: October 2022

In recent years, surveillance cameras have become common in the education system, in early childhood child-care centres as well as in preschools and schools. Public opinion regarding the usage of security cameras in early childhood institutions is constantly increasing due to a growing number of incidents exhibiting child abuse by caregivers. However, meagre attention is given to the use of security cameras in early childhood child-care centres and preschools in the literature. We examined the opinions of child care teachers and caregivers about the implications of implementing cameras in child-care centres routines and how they reshape the relationships with parents and caregivers in Israeli child-care centres. Seven semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven child care teachers and caregivers. Results show that practitioners perceive cameras as generating a disruptive effect on child care centres’ routines. CCTV cameras may create stressful situations between parents and staff, as well as among staff, raising issues of mistrust and privacy violation. However, cameras also serve as a means of establishing mutual trust and maintaining good relationships with parents. This dual impact should be addressed by policy makers and stakeholders involved, who should be aware of the overall consequences of CCTV cameras in child care centres prior to installing such systems.
Liver metastases 2 years after resection of a very-low-risk duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumor: a case report
Authors: Mita Junya , Tada Kazuhiro , Kuboyama Yusuke , Hiroshige Shoji , Nakamura Shun , Takahashi Junichi , Sakata Kazuhito , Mizuuchi Hiroshi , Oba Taro , Yoshizumi Fumitaka , Iwaki Kentaro , Takeuchi Hideya , Kajiyama Kiyoshi , Fukuzawa Kengo
Published: October 2022

Background

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare mesenchymal tumors, but are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. The risk classification of GISTs is based on the tumor size, mitotic index, tumor site, and presence of tumor rupture. Recurrence in the very-low-risk group is extremely rare. We herein report a case of liver metastases 2 years after resection of a very-low-risk duodenal GIST.

Case presentation

A 57-year-old woman presented to the hospital for evaluation of melena. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed bleeding from the exposed blood vessels at the top of a submucosal tumor approximately 20 mm in size located in the second (descending) part of the duodenum, and the bleeding was controlled with electrocoagulation. A GIST was suspected, and the patient underwent wedge resection of the duodenum. The resected specimen contained a 16- × 12-mm (< 20-mm) white submucosal tumor composed of spindle cells with a mitotic count of 4 per 50 high-power fields, and a histologically negative margin was achieved. Immunochemical analysis revealed positive tumor staining for c-kit protein and alpha-smooth muscle actin and negative staining for CD34, desmin, and S-100 protein. Therefore, the tumor was diagnosed as a very-low-risk duodenal GIST based on the Fletcher classification and modified Fletcher classification (Joensuu classification). The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 11. At the follow-up visit 2 years postoperatively, contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed liver tumors in S8 and S6 measuring 26 × 24 and 10 × 10 mm, respectively. Both lesions showed peripheral dominant hyperenhancement with hypoenhancement inside, indicating tissue degeneration within the tumors. These imaging findings closely resembled those of the duodenal GIST. Hence, the patient was diagnosed with liver metastases of GIST 2 years postoperatively. She was subsequently started on treatment with 400 mg of imatinib. At the time of this writing (2 months after diagnosis), the patient was clinically well and asymptomatic and was continuing imatinib therapy.

Conclusions

Recurrence of very-low-risk GISTs is extremely rare. Even a small GIST with low mitotic activity can never be considered completely benign, and long-term follow-up is necessary.
Anxiety, insomnia, and depression during COVID-19 lockdown in elite individual and team sport athletes
Authors: Salles Jose I. , Silva Carolina , Wolff Aline , Orwert Ludmilla , Ribeiro Pedro , Velasques Bruna , Morrissey Dylan
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Pandemic-induced lockdowns disrupted sport training and competition. We aimed to identify the impact on the mental health of high-level athletes and clarify whether the effects differ for team-based and individual athletes.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey, stratified by sex and sport type, collected demographic data and mental health measurements from 274 Brazilian high-performance athletes (142 from team sports and 132 from individual sports) involved with the Brazilian Olympic Committee program for the Tokyo Olympics 2021. Depression, disturbed sleep, and anxiety were assessed by the 9-Item Patient Health Questionnaire, 7-Item Insomnia Severity Index, and 7-Item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale respectively. Responses were analyzed dichotomously according to published threshold values, characterizing the relative frequency distribution of prevalence (PCRS) or non-prevalence of clinically relevant symptoms (NPCRS).

Results

Out of all participants, 47 [17.1%], Z(274) = 15.38, p = .001, 32 [11.7%], Z(274) = 17.94, p = .001, and 49 [17.9%], Z(274) = 15.04, p = .001 had PCRS of anxiety, insomnia, and depression, respectively. There were no significant differences in the PCRS among genders. Compared with individual sport athletes, team sport athletes were more likely to report PCRS of insomnia (12 [37.5%] vs 20 [62.5%], Z(274) = −2.00, p = .046), and depression (18 [36.7%] vs 31 [63.3%], Z(274) = −2.63, p = .009) but not for anxiety.

Conclusion

Athletes reported high levels of mental health problems during the lockdown. Team sport athletes reported worse symptoms of insomnia and depression than individual sport athletes, possibly due to the impact of unaccustomed social isolation and lack of social team activity. Therefore, it becomes relevant to consider psychological support to team sport athletes who for some reason, such as a pandemic, enduring crisis even injury rehabilitation needs to be isolated.
Dynamic reconfiguration for TEG systems under heterogeneous temperature distribution via adaptive coordinated seeker
Authors: Chen Yijun , Yang Bo , Guo Zhengxun , Wang Jingbo , Zhu Mengmeng , Li Zilin , Yu Tao
Published: October 2022

A thermoelectric generation (TEG) system has the weakness of relatively low thermoelectric conversion efficiency caused by heterogeneous temperature distribution (HgTD). Dynamic reconfiguration is an effective technique to improve its overall energy efficiency under HgTD. Nevertheless, numerous combinations of electrical switches make dynamic reconfiguration a complex combinatorial optimization problem. This paper aims to design a novel adaptive coordinated seeker (ACS) based on an optimal configuration strategy for large-scale TEG systems with series–parallel connected modules under HgTDs. To properly balance global exploration and local exploitation, ACS is based on ‘divide-and-conquer’ parallel computing, which synthetically coordinates the local searching capability of tabu search (TS) and the global searching capability of a pelican optimization algorithm (POA) during iterations. In addition, an equivalent re-optimization strategy for a reconfiguration solution obtained by meta-heuristic algorithms (MhAs) is proposed to reduce redundant switching actions caused by the randomness of MhAs. Two case studies are carried out to assess the feasibility and superiority of ACS in comparison with the artificial bee colony algorithm, ant colony optimization, genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization, simulated annealing algorithm, TS, and POA. Simulation results indicate that ACS can realize fast and stable dynamic reconfiguration of a TEG system under HgTDs. In addition, RTLAB platform-based hardware-in-the-loop experiments are carried out to further validate the hardware implementation feasibility.
Intracranial tuberculomas or neurocysticercosis: differentiated by cervical lymph node pathology
Authors: Diker Sevda , Ruso Derlen Özgeç , Bayraktar Nesil , Balyemez Uğurcan
Published: October 2022

Background

Diagnosis of tuberculomas can be difficult in the absence of pulmonary involvement due to numerable mimics.

Case report

We report an immunocompetent 20-year-old female patient, who was admitted with new-onset generalized seizure. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed multiple ring-enhancing lesions. There was no reported systemic symptom such as weight loss, fever or night sweating. Polymerase chain reaction for SARS-COV-2 was negative. Computed tomography of thorax was normal. With an initial diagnosis of neurocysticercosis, she was treated with albendazole for one month. Follow-up cranial MRI showed no improvement. On follow-up visit, an enlarged cervical lymph node was recognized. Biopsy of the lymph node led to the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Two months after the onset of anti-tuberculosis therapy, follow-up cranial MRI showed near-complete resolution.

Conclusion

Investigation of any involvement of disease other than the central nervous system can enable accurate and timely diagnosis of tuberculomas in the absence of pulmonary involvement.
Efficacy and efficiency of sphenopalatine ganglion block for management of post-dural puncture headache in obstetric patients: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Mowafi Marwa M. , Abdelrazik Rehab A.
Published: October 2022

Background

This clinical trial aimed to study the efficacy and efficiency of sphenopalatine ganglion block (SPGB) for the management of post-dural puncture headache (PDPH) in obstetric patients. A prospective randomized clinical trial was carried out on 40 patients with PDPH divided randomly into two equal groups. Paracetamol group (PG): The patients received 1 g of paracetamol three times per day intravenously for 1 day. If adequate pain relief was not achieved, rescue analgesia in the form of intravenous ketorolac was given. Block group (SPGBG): The patients received bilateral SPGB using 3 ml mixture of lignocaine with dexamethasone in each nostril. The pain score, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure were recorded. The onset of analgesia, duration of analgesia, adverse effects, total dose of ketorolac, patient satisfaction, and hospital stay for epidural blood patch (EBP) or hospital discharge after 24 h were also documented.

Results

The pain perception (numeric rating scale [NRS]) in the block group was generally lower throughout the study showing only highly significant difference till the first 2 h after the block with more rapid onset and longer duration of analgesia. The total dose of rescue analgesic in mg was significantly lower in the block group and hospital stay for EBP was significantly less in the block group with higher patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

PDPH can be treated effectively and rapidly with transnasal SPGB, which is a noninvasive, safe, and easy method with a low complication rate.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04793490. Registered on March 11, 2021; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04793490).
Religiousness worldwide: translation of the Duke University Religion Index into 20 languages and validation across 27 nations
Authors: Toscanelli Cecilia , Shino Elizabeth , Robinson Sarah L. , Thalmayer Amber Gayle
Published: October 2022

Religiousness and spirituality are important in the study of psychology for several reasons: They are central to identity and values; they have been reported as being positively associated with health and well-being; and they capture (and perhaps lead to) the largest measurable psychological differences between societies. At five items, the Duke University Religion Index (DUREL) is an efficient measure, which advantageously distinguishes between religious sentiment and activity, and between formal versus private involvement. This project extends its internal validation throughout the world, with formal tests of measurement invariance in three languages in Namibia (Study 1) and in a global sample of 26 countries (Study 2). Results confirmed a two-subscale factorial structure of Religious Activity (combining organizational and non-organizational activities) and Intrinsic Religiosity in Namibia and in half of the 26-country samples. In 13 other countries, fit was best for a one-factor model. Fit was problematic where there was too little intra-national variance: in China and Japan, where religious involvement is universally low, and in Tanzania, where it is universally high. Scalar measurement invariance was found for the one-factor structure across 13 samples and for the two-factor structure across 11 samples. External validation of the scale is examined using psychological and sociodemographic variables. This validation of the DUREL supports its use across contexts, facilitating increased attention to this important aspect of both personality and culture.
PET-MRI in idiopathic inflammatory myositis: a comparative study of clinical and immunological markers with imaging findings
Authors: Girija Manu Santhappan , Tiwari Ravindu , Vengalil Seena , Nashi Saraswati , Preethish-Kumar Veeramani , Polavarapu Kiran , Kulanthaivelu Karthik , Arbind Arpana , Bardhan Mainak , Huddar Akshata , Unnikrishnan Gopikrishnan , Kiran Valasani Ravi , Chawla Tanushree , Nandeesh Bevinahalli , Nagaraj Chandana , Nalini Atchayaram
Published: October 2022

Background

We sought to determine the utility of PET-MRI in diagnosing Idiopathic Inflammatory Myositis (IIM), and look for association between FDG uptake and clinical, pathological and laboratory parameters.

Methods

A retrospective, observational study was conducted on IIM patients having positive serum autoantibodies and who underwent PET-MRI (3-Tesla SIEMENS Biograph MR scanner) between 2017 and 2021. Thirty patients who underwent PET-MRI to detect systemic metastasis without muscle involvement formed the control group.

Results

In the IIM cohort, female: male sex ratio was 1.73, mean age at diagnosis was 40.33 years, and the mean duration of illness was 7 months. 33.33% of patients had severe limb weakness. Mi2B (43.33%), Mi2A (43.33%), PL-7(10%), PL-12(6.67%), SRP (16.67%), Tif1gamma (3.33%), NxP2 (3.33%), Ro-52(40%), PM-Scl, U1-RNP, ANA (26.67%) were the serum autoantibodies identified. Using SUV max Ratio to quantify FDG uptake, PET-MRI showed a sensitivity of 100% with 93.3% specificity in diagnosing IIM.FDG uptake was maximum in proximal lower limb region followed by proximal upper limb. Multivariate regression analysis showed that the severity of muscle weakness, serum Mi2B antibody positivity and serum creatinine kinase levels had a significant positive correlation with FDG uptake (value of 0.005, 0.043, 0.042, respectively for whole-body FDG uptake). FDG uptake also showed good correlation with histopathological features and muscle MRI, but there was no significant association with treatment response. Three female patients in our cohort had primary malignancy involving the breast, uterus, and cervix.

Conclusions

PET-MRI is a promising diagnostic modality for IIM. PET-MRI reflects the severity of muscle inflammation, showing good association with various clinical/laboratory parameters, histopathology, and muscle MRI. Parameters associated with severe muscle inflammation in PET-MRI—clinical severity of muscle weakness, Mi2B positivity, and serum creatine kinase levels—may be used as clinical/laboratory markers of disease severity in IIM. PET-MRI has the added advantage of detection of systemic malignancy.
An eleven autophagy-related genes-based prognostic signature for endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Li Shiyang , Pan Junan , Zhang Yanyu , Tang Yan , Zeng Xiaobing , Wang Shihai , Wu Dengxuan , Liu Yuyong , Xu Dawen , Lan Jianjun , Hu Dong
Published: October 2022

Background

Endometrial cancer (EC) is a common malignant tumor in women with increasing mortality. The prognosis of EC is highly heterogeneous which needs more effective biomarkers for clinical decision. Here, we reported the effect of autophagy-related genes (ARGs) on the prognosis of EC.

Methods

The expression data of EC tissues and adjacent non-tumor samples were available from the TCGA dataset and 232 autophagy-related genes were from The Human Autophagy Database. A prognostic ARGs risk model was further constructed by using LASSO-Cox regression, and its prognostic and predictive value were evaluated by nomogram. Further functional analysis was conducted to reveal a significant signaling pathway.

Results

A total of 45 differentially expressed ARGs were obtained, including 18 upregulated and 27 downregulated genes. Eleven ARGs (BID, CAPN2, CDKN2A, DLC1, GRID2, IFNG, MYC, NRG3, P4HB, PTK6, and TP73) were finally selected to build ARGs risk. This signature could well distinguish between the high- and low-risk patients (survival analysis: P = 1.18E-10; AUC: 0.733 at 1 year, 0.795 at 3 years, and 0.823 at 5 years). Furthermore, a nomogram was plotting to predict the possibility of overall survival and suggested good value for clinical utility.

Conclusion

We established an eleven-ARG signature, which was probably effective in the prognostic prediction of patients with EC.
Quantitation of neutrophil extra cellular traps (NETs) in liver cirrhosis patients and their relation to the incidence of different complications
Authors: Al Mowafy Enaam Ali ElSayed , Shawkat Salma AbdelGhany
Published: October 2022

Backgrounds and aim

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been shown to play an important role in inflammatory and thrombotic processes. Investigating the presence of NETs in liver cirrhosis to detect any contribution to occurrence of complications may help predict or prevent those complications.

Methods

Among 78 cirrhotic patients, the serum NETs level was measured using ELISA and compared to different etiologies of liver cirrhosis (Viral, HCC, Bilharzial, NASH, cardiac cirrhosis and undetermined etiology) as well as markers of inflammation and complications in those patients.

Results

We found that NETs are substantially found in LCF and have a significant relation to malignant portal vein thrombosis but not other studied complications or etiology of liver cirrhosis.

Conclusion

NETs however found in liver cirrhosis patients may not play as a significant role in occurrence of complications as thought. So, NETs cannot be reliably used as a biomarker or predictor for occurrence of thrombosis in liver cirrhosis patients.

Lay summary

Liver cirrhosis patients have many factors at play that lead to development of thrombosis. NETS may play a role with the development of malignant thrombosis in those patients. Further evaluation for their level and action should be studied before considering NETs as a key player in development of complications.
Egyptian guidelines for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis — 2022 update
Authors: El Miedany Yasser , Abu-Zaid Mohammed Hassan , El Gaafary Maha , Mansour Mona , Fathy Nihal , Hassan Waleed , Mortada Mohamed , Eissa Mervat , Tabra Samar Abdelhamed , Galal Salwa , Foad Nermeen , Ibrahim Rehab Ali , Medhat Basma , El Olemy Gehan , Adel Yasmin , Ghaleb Rasha , Saber Sally , GadAllah Naglaa
Published: October 2022

Background

Busy rheumatologists, and busy patients as well as policy makers, require accurate, succinct, transparent, easily digested summaries of evidence and recommendations for management. Our objective was to develop an up-to-date evidence-based, consensus, clinical practice guidelines for treat-to-target management of rheumatoid arthritis in adults.

Results

Ninety-four (94.7%) of the expert committee completed the 2-round e-Delphi surveys. A total of 33 recommendation items, addressing the main rheumatoid arthritis (RA) domains, were identified. The level of agreement (rate 7–9), for the statements which reached consensus, ranged from 85 to 100%. Consensus was achieved on the wording of all the clinical practice guidelines identified by the scientific committee. A management algorithm for the management of rheumatoid arthritis have been developed.

Conclusion

These updated recommendations reflect the most recent evidence for the management of RA. It also outlines the multidisciplinary team role in enhancing the RA patients’ care. The recommendations offer strategies to achieve optimum treat-to-target outcomes. However, standards of care are defined based on the clinical data obtained for individual patients and are prone to modification. High-quality, broad scope evidence-based clinical practice guidelines offer a path for bridging the gap between best practice, policy, local settings and patients’ choice.
Exploring Bias in Scientific Peer Review: An ASCO Initiative
Authors: McKenzie Nathalie D. , Liu Raymond , Chiu Alden V. , Chavez-MacGregor Mariana , Frohlich Dean , Ahmad Sarfraz , Hendricks Carolyn B.
Published: October 2022

PURPOSE:

To investigate implicit bias (IB) in the peer review process across ASCO and Conquer Cancer Foundation and to propose potential mitigation strategies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We, ASCO Working Group on Implicit Bias, selected four data sources: (1) literature search [(a) defining IB in peer review, (b) evidence of IB in peer review, and (c) strategies to mitigate IB]; (2) created and analyzed an ASCO database for sex, race, and institutional affiliation regarding peer review success; (3) constructed and conducted qualitative interviews of key stakeholders within the ASCO board, publications, and grants committee, on experience with IB within ASCO; and (4) constructed, delivered, and analyzed results of member survey on perception of IB within ASCO.

RESULTS:

Historically uncommon, PubMed articles on IB in peer review subsequently increased exponentially in the past 2 decades. Qualitative interviews of ASCO key stakeholders reveal that system changes and IB training were priorities. The committee member survey reported that their peer review decisions could be affected by IB and that mitigating IB should be a priority. Most reported having never been trained on IB. Available data from ASCO database support stakeholder findings, suggesting that there exists a disproportionate representation of males and better-known institutions among both reviewer positions and awardees. Ethnicity/race data were insufficiently reported. Limited data on interventions/strategies to mitigate IB in the peer-reviewed literature suggest that there are feasible processes for grants, program committees, and journals.

CONCLUSION:

Limited data reveal that the peer review process at ASCO is not exempt from IB and suggest association with sex and institutional affiliation. Working Group on Implicit Bias recommends three actions to mitigate IB within peer review: (1) create awareness and a culture of inclusivity, (2) create systems to reduce IB, and (3) collect data for ongoing analysis.