bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Descrição tensa (Tension-Thick Description): Geertz, Benjamin e Performance
Authors: Dawsey John Cowart
Published: March 2023

Se Clifford Geertz, um dos antropólogos que fazem a virada performativa, nos anos 1970, se propõe a fazer uma “descrição densa” em que seja possível diferenciar um piscar de olhos de uma piscadela marota, Walter Benjamin, que também encontra na vida social, em suas histórias e culturas, textos a serem lidos, procura, nas imagens dialéticas, uma “descrição tensa”(tension-thick description) – carregada de tensões – capaz de produzir nos leitores um fechar e reabrir dos olhos, uma espécie de assombro diante de um espantoso cotidiano – um despertar. Neste artigo pretende-se explorar, em um registro benjaminiano, os limiares, as dobras e os fundos do ensaio de Geertz sobre a briga de galos balinesa. Nessas margens interiores, onde Geertz pode nos surpreender, procura-se ensaiar e repensar algumas das ideias da antropologia da performance. Um detalhe: no caminho apontado procura-se seguir os rastros dos corpos no texto – os seus índices de corporalidade, ou corpo-índices.
A volta do parentesco: Joan Bestard Camps em conversa com João de Pina-Cabral
Authors: Giné Enric Porqueres i
Published: March 2023

A volta do parentesco: Joan Bestard Camps em conversa  com João de Pina-Cabral
The Internationalization of Ayahausca
Authors: Barbosa Antonio Rafael
Published: March 2023

LABATE, Beatriz Caiuby, JUNGABERLE, Henrik (eds.). The Internationalization of Ayahausca. Berlin, Münster, Vien, Zürich: LIT Verlag, 2011. 446 pp.
Aelian and the Gods of Comedy
Authors: Barrenechea Francisco
Published: March 2023

Aelian offers a curious example of how comedy was tied to religion during the Second Sophistic. He describes a votive relief dedicated by the Old Comic poet Theopompus to Asclepius, which he interprets as a symbol of the genre (Theopomp. Com. test. 2 PCG = Ael. fr. 102 Domingo-Forasté). My article situates this passage within the style and purpose of Aelian’s miscellanies, in order to explore how he transforms it into a literary monument that testifies to the god’s concern for Old Comedy—a striking departure from the more negative perceptions of the genre in the literary culture of his time. I propose two possible origins for the anecdote that might illuminate Aelian’s symbolic treatment: an actual votive relief linked to the playwright in an Attic sanctuary of Asclepius, or a comedy by Theopompus himself.
‘I’ve Become a Lot Tougher’: Expatriate Teachers’ Experiences of Precarity and Resilience in Non-Traditional International Schools in China
Authors: Poole Adam , Bunnell Tristan
Published: March 2023

The arena of education known as ‘international schooling’ has grown enormously, from a body of 2,500 schools in 2000 to almost 13,500 by 2022. By 2019, China had emerged as having the most schools delivering a non-national curriculum in English outside of an English-speaking nation. The arena continues to be dominated by British and North American educators. One enduring aspect of workplace reality is the short-term contract, normally of between two and three years. The field is acknowledged to be inherently precarious and insecure, with high levels of turnover, and a bleak ‘negative’ lens of imagination has always persisted. This paper focuses attention on the lived experiences of expatriate teachers among the growing body of ‘non-traditional international schools’ that might be best termed ‘Chinese Internationalised Schools’. Through in-depth phenomenological interviewing of six expatriate teachers, the reality of ‘short-termism’ was examined. Whilst the findings highlighted, as expected, the negative aspects of short-term employment, the findings also identify many positive outcomes. These include opportunities for developing resilience, agency, and reinvention. This offers scope for a new vision, based upon the accumulation of ‘resilience’, which helps to explain the continuous growth of the arena despite the presence of precarity.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Teaching Intersectional Self Determination Skills with a Focus on Disability, Social Identity, and Culture
Authors: Stansberry Brusnahan L. Lynn , Harkins Monaco Elizabeth A. , Fuller Marcus , Dixon Korto
Published: March 2023

For education to be a means of social transformation that is equitable for all, including students with disabilities, it is important for educators to understand and infuse student’s multiple social identities and culture into educational planning and preparation for life. Intersectionality theory is a way to understand inequities by acknowledging how multiple overlapping social identities and culture impact and oppress certain student populations (Crenshaw, 1991). In this article, we discuss intersectional self-determination skills, specifically self-advocacy. We provide tools for educators to recognize their own and their students’ social and cultural identities and the impact of constructs on students with disabilities with diverse identities. We call on educators to center justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) into educational practices and adopt culturally and linguistically sustaining practices.
Perceptions of Espoused Versus Enacted Culture Around Sexual Misconduct and Other Offenses Among U.S. Military Service Members
Authors: Lucas Jeffrey W. , Hanges Paul J. , Beavan Kelly , Epistola Jordan , Forgo Emily , Shapiro Debra L.
Published: March 2023

Interviews and focus groups with active-duty U.S. military service members and students at military service academies investigated relationships between espoused and enacted culture in perceptions of sexual assault and harassment versus other types of offenses. Results show that participants widely understood and accepted an espoused culture that is intolerant of sexual misconduct. The enacted culture included tolerance of some forms of sexual misconduct, differences in conduct in private versus public settings, and widespread resentment of frequent trainings. Results also showed cynicism about service treatments for all types of offenses, but especially for sexual misconduct. Of note is that participants tended to perceive inconsistencies in consequences for sexual misconduct in terms of who faced punishment, whereas for other offenses, they tended to see inconsistencies in what types of consequences were administered. Results demonstrate the value of efforts to align trainings with cultures that consistently discourage behaviors trainings are designed to eliminate.
Efficacy and safety of vericiguat in heart failure: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ma Jianhua , Guo Sheng , Jiang Huan , Li Bo
Published: March 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of vericiguat in patients with heart failure (HF).

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive literature review of the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases up to 14 December 2022 for studies comparing vericiguat with placebo in patients with HF. Clinical data were extracted and cardiovascular deaths, adverse effects, and HF-related hospitalization were analyzed using Review Manager software (version 5.3), after quality assessment of the enrolled studies.

Results

Four studies (6705 patients) were included in this meta-analysis. There were no significant differences in the basic characteristics of the included studies. There was no significant difference in adverse effects between the vericiguat group and placebo group, and no significant differences between the groups in terms of cardiovascular death and HF hospitalization.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis indicated that vericiguat was not an effective drug for HF; however, more clinical trials are required to verify its efficacy.
Transportation as a Disease Vector in COVID-19: Border Mobility and Disease Spread
Authors: Gurbuz Okan , Aldrete Rafael M. , Salgado David , Gurbuz Tugba Mehmetoglu
Published: March 2023

More than a year after COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, the U.S.A. and Mexico rank first and fourth, respectively, with regard to the number of deaths. From March 2020, nonessential travelers were not allowed to cross the border into the U.S.A. from Mexico via international land ports of entry, which resulted in a more than 50% decrease in the number of people crossing the border. However, border communities still face a higher number of cases and faster community spread compared with those without international land ports of entry. This paper established an econometric model to understand the effects of cross-border mobility and other socioeconomic parameters on the speed of spread. The model was developed at the U.S. county level using data from all 3,141 counties in the U.S.A. Additionally, a follow-up U.S. county comparative analysis was developed to examine the significance of having a border crossing between the U.S.A. and Mexico for U.S. counties. The findings of the analysis revealed that the variables having a significant effect are as follows: population density; number of people per household; population in the 15–65 age group; median household income; mask use; number of visits to transit stations; number of visits to workplace; overall mobility; and having a border crossing to Mexico within county limits. The comparative analysis found that U.S. counties with border crossings have an average of 123 cases per 1,000 population whereas their counterparts without border crossings only have 90 cases per 1,000 population.
Field Investigation of Long-Pin Shear and Short-Pin Raveling Tests on Cold in-Place Recycled Layers: Wisconsin's Share for the Enhancement of Cold in-Place Recycled Sustainability
Authors: Mandal Tirupan , Arabzadeh Ali , Morovatdar Ali , Kemp Peter
Published: March 2023

Currently, Wisconsin, U.S., opens the cold in-place recycled (CIR) base layer to traffic 0 to 3 h after construction. The CIR layer is then paved—when the in situ moisture content drops to 2.5%—with hot mix asphalt. There is no quantitative measure for estimating the opening time to traffic, and, to determine the in situ moisture content, there is a need to obtain field samples and perform laboratory measurements. These methods are time-consuming, labor-intensive, or both. To overcome these shortcomings, the feasibility for use of quantitative and real-time evaluation techniques was investigated. Long-pin shear (LPS) and short-pin raveling (SPR) tests developed as a part of the National Corporate Highway Research Program 09-62 study were used for measuring the properties of the CIR layer (blow count and torque) over time. Regression models were developed from these tests using the in situ moisture content measured from field samples, which were then used for proposing threshold values in Wisconsin. The SPR and LPS test data enabled the establishment of correlations between the measured values. Statistical analysis revealed that the pavement temperature and curing time significantly influence the measured properties from the LPS and SPR tests.
The effect of the AN69 ST100 versus oXiris® membrane on filter life during CRRT for non-anticoagulated liver failure patients.
Authors: Naorungroj Thummaporn , Baldwin Ian , Eastwood Glenn , Bellomo Rinaldo
Published: March 2023

Backgrounds:

In patients with liver failure, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) without anticoagulation may be necessary. A new heparin coated membrane (oXiris®) may prolong circuit life in this setting.

Objectives:

In liver failure patients not receiving anticoagulation, to compare CRRT circuit life with the oXiris® versus the AN69 ST100 (usual care) membrane.

Methods:

Randomized single cross-over trial.

Results:

We studied 20 patients and 39 circuits. Twenty-five treatments used femoral and 14 internal jugular access catheters. Median circuit life was 21 h (IQR: 8.25–35.5) with the AN69 versus 16.0 h (14–25) with the oXiris® membrane ( p = 0.36). Median first circuit duration was 14 (11.25–23) h for the AN69 ST100 versus 16 (8 –26) for the oXiris® membrane. There was also no difference between the AN69 ST100 or oXiris® membrane circuits using femoral access at 13 (8 –22.5) versus 15.5 (12.5–21.5) h ( p = 0.57) or internal jugular access at 28 (13–47) versus 23 (21–29) h ( p = 0.79), respectively.

Conclusions:

The oXiris® heparin-grafted membrane does not appear to prolong circuit life in liver failure patients receiving CRRT without anticoagulation.
A Theological Account of Artificial Moral Agency
Authors: Xu Ximian
Published: March 2023

This article seeks to explore the idea of artificial moral agency from a theological perspective. By drawing on the Reformed theology of archetype-ectype, it will demonstrate that computational artefacts are the ectype of human moral agents and, consequently, have a partial moral agency. In this light, human moral agents mediate and extend their moral values through computational artefacts, which are ontologically connected with humans and only related to limited particular moral issues. This moral leitmotif opens up a way to deploy carebots into Christian pastoral care while maintaining the human agent's uniqueness and responsibility in pastoral caregiving practices.
State feedback spool position control with integral compensation for servo proportional valve
Authors: Chen Lei , Jin Bo , Zhang Ce , Guo Qiang
Published: March 2023

In recent years, servo proportional valves have been widely used in the industry owing to the advantages of high stability and low cost. However, the nonlinearity and parameter uncertainty present in the servo proportional valves make it difficult to control the spool position. This paper proposes a state feedback control with integral compensation for the spool displacement control of the servo proportional valve, which aims to solve the problem that state feedback is difficult to overcome system nonlinearity and parameter uncertainty. The key to this control method is the addition of an outer loop negative feedback and an integral element. At the same time, the control method can realize pole configuration, convenient control parameter adjustment, low hardware requirements, and easy engineering application. Experimental and simulation results show that the integral element can compensate for the system’s nonlinearities and uncertain parameters, and eliminate the steady-state error of displacement tracking. The state feedback with integral compensation can improve the frequency response of the servo proportional valve compared to traditional PID control.
Process parameters for friction stir welding on A319 aluminium alloy using hybrid technique for order of preference by similarity to an ideal solution and grey relational analysis multi-criteria decision-making method
Authors: Marichamy M , Chockalingam K
Published: March 2023

The major goal of this study is to look into friction stir welding process parameter optimization with the combined decision model, the tensile strength of the best parameter combinations is higher. The recommended hybrid strategy for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (technique for order of preference by similarity to an ideal solution) and grey relational analysis method are used to discover the optimum process parameters. It is also suitable for welding aluminium alloy A319 is Tool rotational speed (r/min), Feed for welding (mm/min), and diameter of tool pin (mm) are all considered while using the friction stir welding process. This operation is primarily implemented through various experiments using Taguchi L9 orthogonal arrays. To this problem, the (technique for order of preference by similarity to an ideal solution) and (grey relational analysis) models are used. Hence, this technique has demonstrated the technology used to identify multi-criteria decision-making in friction stir welding and process parameter optimization for the best results.
Experimental and numerical research on flow characteristics of inlet particle separator for aero-engine under the influence of water film
Authors: Luo Mingcong , Hu Qionglei , Liu Aocheng , Ooi Kim Tiow , Zheng Qun , Yan Shilin
Published: March 2023

An aero-engine must be able to operate in all-weather conditions, which requires the aircraft to be safe throughout the flight even in bad weather. Excessive intake of rainwater can induce stall and surge of compressor and flameout of combustion chamber, which will lead to the loss of power of the engine. In rainy weather, water come into the engine inlet protection device, which directly determines the compressor inlet conditions and will further affect the compressor working condition and the matching features. In this paper, special attention was paid to the experimental characteristics of aero turbo-shaft engine inlet particle separator (IPS) and the numerical study employing ANSYS-CFX under water spraying condition. Based on the phenomenon of water film forming on the wall surface of the IPS and the experimental data under different water spraying conditions, combined with the predictions from CFD study, an empirical model of water film flow on the wall surface has been developed. The results indicate that in the case of high water ingestion, droplets will inevitably form water film on the wall after entering the IPS. Due to the viscous resistance of wall water film and its influence on the airflow boundary layer, the flow state inside the IPS will change. By establishing a wet wall water film model, the flow characteristics near the wall are closer to the experimental state. The total pressure loss prediction error was reduced from 24.8% to 5.2% and 26.4% to 5.7% under the uniform water spraying rate of 2.93% and 4.84%, respectively.
First-in-human evaluation of a biological regenerative vascular conduit for hemodialysis access
Authors: Ebner Adrian , Gallo Santiago , Castellano Juan , Filartiga Maria , Haarstad Allie , Pries Cory , Gahlbeck Kate , McMahon Mariah , Herrera Camila , Avila Martha , Schankereli Kem , Murphy Rick , Stenoien Mark , Syedain Zeeshan , Wasse Haimanot
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

The long-term survival and low complication rate of autogenous fistulas for hemodialysis access is often offset by early thrombosis and slow or failed maturation leading to the use of central venous catheters. A regenerative material may have the potential to overcome these limitations. A completely biological acellular vascular conduit was investigated in this first-in-human clinical study.

Methods:

With approval of the ethics board and patients’ informed consent, five subjects were enrolled based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Five patients underwent implant of a novel acellular, biological tissue conduit (TRUE AVC™) in the upper arm in a curved configuration between brachial artery and axillary vein. After maturation, standard dialysis was commenced through the new access. Patients were followed up to 26 weeks with ultrasound and physical exam. Serum samples were evaluated for an immune response to the novel allogeneic human tissue implant.

Results:

This new tissue conduit handled well surgically, with properties similar to that of native human vein. Post procedure conduit flow was excellent in all cases, averaging 1098 ± 388 ml/min at week 4 and remaining stable through 1248 ± 355 ml/min at 26 weeks. Surgical site healing was normal with no edema or erythema by week 4. Six-month primary assisted patency was 80% and secondary patency was 100%. Prescribed dialysis was successfully delivered without infection, and there was no significant change in conduit diameter. Serum testing showed no increase in PRA or IgG specific to the TRUE AVC. One implant required intervention at 5 months with thrombectomy and covered stent procedure.

Conclusion:

This first-in-human 6-month study with favorable patency and low complication rate establishes the initial safety and feasibility of this novel biological tissue conduit for dialysis access in patients with end-stage kidney disease. Its mechanical durability and lack of immune response establishes TRUE AVC as a potential regenerative material for clinical use.
‘Pregnancy no bi disease’: Contextual beliefs in antenatal classes in selected Nigerian hospitals
Authors: Olajimbiti Ezekiel Opeyemi
Published: March 2023

This paper examines how language is used to show shared beliefs between caregivers and pregnant women in antenatal classes in the Nigerian context, which hitherto suffers neglect. The data consist of tape recordings and observational notes taken during antenatal classes in selected hospitals in Lokoja, Nigeria. The study adopted a top-down analytic approach using Odebunmi’s model of contextual beliefs, supported by van Dijk’s epistemic context model, and Fetzer and Fischer’s lexical markers model. The analysis shows three categories of shared knowledge: a. state of pregnancy and postnatal care b. sexual relationships and spice lexemes c. traditional child care and superstitions. Shared knowledge of the state of pregnancy and postnatal care manifests in pregnancy misconceptions, nutrition during pregnancy and postnatal care orientations highlighted by lexical markers such as recoverable knowledge connector and joint attention builder. Shared knowledge of sexual relations and spice lexemes reflect sexual communication and native spices using metaphorization and proximal deictic lexical markers. Grandmothers’ involvement and insistence on using traditional methods and superstitions frame shared knowledge of traditional child care and superstitions through belief affirmative and self-reformulation markers. Analysis of the shared beliefs shows how caregivers represent pregnant women’s mental knowledge in interactions as well as how pregnant women interject beliefs for clarification and validity. This way, both participants demonstrate how contextual beliefs facilitate communicative processes and meaningful understanding in their interactions.
Insight into in silico prediction and chemical degradation study of osimertinib mesylate by LC-HRMS and NMR: Investigation of a typical case of alkaline pH-mediated oxidative degradation product
Authors: Dhiman Vivek , Chavan Balasaheb B. , Ramarapu Niharika , Samanthula Gananadhamu
Published: March 2023

Osimertinib mesylate is a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat nonsmall-cell lung cancer. The objective was to understand in silico prediction and chemical-based stress testing of the osimertinib mesylate. A total of eight degradation products (DPs) were formed under chemical stress testing. An in silico tool viz., Zeneth predicted a higher percentage of DPs. The separation of all the DPs was achieved using reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatography, employing X-Bridge C18 column with ammonium acetate (pH adjusted to 7.50 with ammonia) and acetonitrile as mobile phase. The overall results showed it underwent significant degradation in acidic, alkaline, and oxidative conditions. In rest of the conditions, osimertinib mesylate was found to be stable or slight degradation was observed in photolytic condition. The structure of DPs was elucidated with a comparison of data generated from high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) of osimertinib mesylate and its degradation products. To confirm the unambiguous regioisomers, one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimentional (2D) nuclear magnetic resonance studies were performed. Furthermore, the N-oxide position was assigned for the first time using the Meisenheimer rearrangement reaction in atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mode. Interestingly, an unusual reaction of DP2 formation was observed at alkaline conditions. In silico tools such as DEREK and Sarah predicted osimertinib mesylate and most of the DPs found to be structural alert for mutagenicity.
Navigating the Pandemic: Enrollment Decisions and Educational Experiences of Latino/x College Men Attending Hispanic Serving Institutions in the South Texas Region
Authors: Ponjuán Luis , Campos Emmet , Kugiya Jase , Lizarraga Armando , Mena Bernal Julio Jesus
Published: March 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic was a primary cause for the decline in college enrollment rates for Latino/x college men over the last two years. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore how these students discussed their decisions to attend and enroll college since the onset of the pandemic. Using the Theory of planned behavior (Azjen, 1991), we tried to understand how Latino/x college men, who were first time in enrolled in college, navigated their educational experiences in South Texas Hispanic Serving Institutions. The findings revealed sobering realities that these students faced uncertainty, isolation, mental health concerns, but they also relied on faculty members, staff, and student peer groups to survive the pandemic. We conclude with recommendations that educational leaders, faculty members, and professional staff should consider to develop a college climate and classroom environment which values Latino/x college men and improves their educational outcomes.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Ex-Situ and In-Situ Fenestrated Stent-Grafts for Endovascular Repair of Aortic Arch Pathologies
Authors: Boufi Mourad , Alexandru Georgiana , Tarzi Myriam , Zlitni Molka , Taghi Houda , Loundou Anderson D.
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

To gain insight into safety and efficacy of in situ and ex-situ fenestration techniques for total endovascular arch repair. The term ex-situ fenestration is referring to physician-modified stent-graft technique where fenestration is performed on a back table.

Methods:

Electronic search was conducted according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-analyses) guidelines from 2000 to 2020. The main outcomes measured were 30-day mortality, stroke, aortic-related mortality, and reintervention rates.

Results:

Fifteen studies were eligible: 7 ex-situ fenestration (189 patients) and 8 in-situ fenestration (149 patients). In ex-situ group, dissection was the main pathology treated and proximal sealing zones were Z0 or 1 in 53.5% of patients. In in-situ group, dissection and aneurysm were equally represented in around 40% of cases and proximal sealing zones were Z0 or 1 in 46.5% of patients. Cumulative 30-day all-cause mortality was similar in both groups: 3.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.7%–8.2%) and 3.8% (95% CI: 1.6%–8.9%), respectively, in ex-situ and in-situ groups and stroke rate of 2.8% (95% CI: 1.1%–7%) and 5.3% (95% CI: 2.6%–10.5%). After a 11.1 ± 2.6 months mean follow-up for ex-situ and 16.7 ± 2.3 months for in-situ group, there were 5.2 and 1.4 reinterventions per 100 patients-years, respectively, for ex-situ and in situ groups. Aortic-related mortality rates of, respectively, 3.2% (95% CI: 1.3%–7.4%) and 2.6% (95% CI: 0.9%–7.3%) were noted in ex-situ and in situ groups.

Conclusion:

The reported data show favorable short-term results of both ex-situ and in-situ fenestration techniques with low mortality and strokes rates. However, durability is still questionable given the lack of long-term data. Both options may have their place in arch repair beyond the spectrum of emergent and urgent cases, on condition that results stand the test of time.

Clinical Impact

In situ and ex-situ fenestration techniques have been initially developed to overcome emergency or as a bail out techniques however giving the promessing favorable short term results indications of these techniques may be extended to elective patients ineligible to customized stent-grafts and possibly in the futur to more elective cases as an option for total endovascular arch repair.
Improved Outcome With Knee Arthroscopy Relative to Physiotherapy for Symptomatic Unstable Meniscal Tears: 2-Year Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Porter Mark D. , Shadbolt Bruce
Published: March 2023

Background:

Although preservation of meniscal tissue is paramount, there are occasions when repair of a torn meniscus is not possible. The surgical option may be a partial meniscectomy, the objective being to alleviate the patient’s symptoms with resection of only that portion of the meniscus that is no longer functioning but is the cause of symptoms. Previous studies have questioned the need to perform such surgery and have recommended nonoperative treatment instead. Our goal was to compare the outcome of partial meniscectomy with that of physiotherapy alone for irreparable meniscal tears.

Hypothesis:

Clinical outcome following arthroscopic partial meniscectomy may differ from that following physiotherapy alone, for patients with symptomatic irreparable meniscal tears.

Study Design:

Nonrandomized prospective cohort study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 2.

Methods:

Patients satisfying the inclusion criteria chose to undergo knee arthroscopy (group A) or physiotherapy (group B). The diagnosis of a meniscal tear was made on physical assessment and magnetic resonance imaging examination. The meniscal tear was preventing them from continuing with their regular weightbearing exercise. Outcomes of interest were the following patient-reported outcomes (PROs): the Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Tegner Activity Score (TAS), with minimal clinically important differences being 10 and 1, respectively. PROs were completed at baseline, and at 1-year and 2-year follow-up. Changes in scores within and between groups were compared using analysis of variance and Wilcoxon tests ( P <0.05). A power analysis demanded 65 patients in each group to produce a power of 80% and a P value of 5%.

Results:

Of 528 patients enrolled in the study, 10 were lost to follow-up and 8 were excluded. Data were complete for 269 in group A, and 228 in Group B. Group A and B were similar in terms of age (41.1 years, SD 7.8 vs 40 years, SD 13.3), body mass index (22.5 kg/m2, SD 3.1 vs 23.1 kg/m2, SD 2.3), radiographic grade of osteoarthritis (median grade 2, range 0-3 in both groups), gender (male:female = 134:135 vs 112:116), and duration of symptoms (44.4 days, SD 5.6 vs 46.6 days, SD 8.8), with P >0.05. At both 1-year and 2-year follow-up, Group A had higher scores in the mean total KOOS (88.8, SD 8.0 vs 72.4, SD 3.8), as well as in all subscales within the KOOS, and the TAS (median 7, range 5-9 vs median 5, range 3-6), with P <0.001 for each variable.

Conclusion:

Performing a knee arthroscopy with partial meniscectomy is associated with improved KOOS and TAS, relative to treatment with physiotherapy alone, at 2-year follow-up.

Clinical Relevance:

Physically active patients with symptomatic irreparable meniscal tears may experience a better clinical outcome following knee arthroscopy, relative to to physiotherapy alone.
Pediatric low-dose head CT: Image quality improvement using iterative model reconstruction
Authors: Rabinowich Aviad , Shendler Genady , Ben-Sira Liat , Shiran Shelly I
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the differences in pediatric non-contrast low-dose head computed tomography (CT) between filtered-back projection and iterative model reconstruction using objective and subjective image quality evaluation.

Methods

A retrospective study evaluated children undergoing low-dose non-contrast head CT. All CT scans were reconstructed using both filtered-back projection and iterative model reconstruction. Objective image quality analysis was performed using contrast and signal-to-noise ratios for the supra- and infratentorial brain regions of identical regions of interest on the two reconstruction methods. Two experienced pediatric neuroradiologists evaluated subjective image quality, visibility of structures, and artifacts.

Results

We evaluated 233 low-dose brain CT scans of 148 pediatric patients. There was a ∼2-fold improvement in the contrast-to-noise ratio between gray and white matter in the infra- and supratentorial regions ( p < 0.001) using iterative model reconstruction compared to filtered-back projection. The white and gray matter signal-to-noise ratio improved more than 2-fold using iterative model reconstruction ( p < 0.001). Furthermore, radiologists graded anatomical details, gray-white matter differentiation, beam hardening artifacts, and image quality using iterative model reconstructions as superior to filtered-back projection reconstructions.

Conclusion

Iterative model reconstructions had better contrast-to-noise and signal-to-noise ratios with fewer artifacts in pediatric CT brain scans using low-dose radiation protocols. This image quality improvement was demonstrated in the supra- and infratentorial regions. This method thus comprises an important tool for reducing children’s exposure while maintaining diagnostic capability.
The value of clinical routine blood biomarkers in predicting long-term mortality after stroke
Authors: Hatab Isra , Kneihsl Markus , Bisping Egbert , Rainer Peter P , Fandler-Höfler Simon , Eppinger Sebastian , Haidegger Melanie , Berger Natalie , Mangge Harald , Schmidt Reinhold , Enzinger Christian , Gattringer Thomas
Published: March 2023

Background:

Several blood biomarkers have been identified as predictors for poor outcome after ischemic stroke. However, recent studies mainly focused on single or experimental biomarkers and considered rather short follow-up intervals limiting their value for daily clinical practice. We, therefore, aimed to compare various clinical routine blood biomarkers for their predictive value on post-stroke mortality over a 5-year follow-up period.

Patients and methods:

This data analysis of a prospective single-center study included all consecutive ischemic stroke patients admitted to the stroke unit of our university hospital over a 1-year period. Various blood biomarkers of inflammation, heart failure, metabolic disorders, and coagulation were analyzed from standardized routine blood samples collected within 24 h of hospital admission. All patients underwent a thorough diagnostic workup and were followed for 5 years post-stroke.

Results:

Of 405 patients (mean age: 70.3 years), 72 deceased (17.8%) during the follow-up period. While various routine blood biomarkers were associated with post-stroke mortality in univariable analyses, only NT-proBNP remained an independent predictor (adjusted odds ratio 5.1; 95% CI 2.0–13.1; p < 0.001) for death after stroke. NT-proBNP levels ⩾794 pg/mL ( n = 169, 42%) had a sensitivity of 90% for post-stroke mortality with a negative predictive value of 97% and was additionally associated with cardioembolic stroke and heart failure (each p ⩽ 0.05).

Conclusion:

NT-proBNP represents the most relevant routine blood-based biomarker for the prediction of long-term mortality after ischemic stroke. Increased NT-proBNP levels indicate a vulnerable subgroup of stroke patients in which early and thorough cardiovascular assessment and consistent follow-ups could improve outcome after stroke.
Effect of Macular Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling on Single Surgery Success Rates of Vitrectomy for Uncomplicated, Primary Macula-Off Retinal Detachment
Authors: Martens Rosanna K. , Chen Chao , Ehmann David S. , Greve Mark , Seamone Mark E.
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To determine the anatomic and visual outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy for uncomplicated, primary macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) with and without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. Methods: This retrospective chart review comprised 129 patients with uncomplicated, primary macula-off RRD presenting between January 1, 2016, and May 31, 2021. Thirty-six patients (27.9%) had ILM peeling and 93 (72.0%) did not. The primary outcome was the rate of recurrent RRD. Secondary outcomes included preoperative and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), epiretinal membrane (ERM) formation, and macular thickness. Results: No significant difference was found in the risk for recurrent RRD between patients who had ILM peeling and those who did not (2.8% [1/36] and 5.4% [5/93], respectively) ( P = 1.00). The final postoperative BCVA was better in eyes that did not have ILM peeling ( P < .001). No ERM occurred in the group with ILM peeling, whereas ERM occurred in 27 patients (29.0%) who did not have ILM peeling. The temporal macular retina was thinner in eyes in which ILM peeling was performed. Conclusions: The risk for recurrent RRD was not statistically lower in eyes having ILM peeling of the macula in uncomplicated, primary macula-off RRD. Despite a reduction in postoperative ERM formation, eyes having macular ILM peeling had worse postoperative VA.
Psychosexual Dysfunctions in Male Patients With Diagnosis of Depression and/or Anxiety Disorders Attending Psychiatry Outpatient Clinic in Chhatrapati Shivaji Subharti Hospital, Meerut
Authors: Biswas Rakesh Kumar , Choudhary Sandeep , Kumar Vivek
Published: March 2023

Background:

Sexual dysfunction (SD) among male psychiatric patients is common and may be the result of various bio- psycho-social factors. This study aimed to assess the proportion of men with depression and/or anxiety disorders having SD and evaluate its association with sociodemographic and clinical variables.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study conducted from November 2018 to June 2020 included 100 men attending the psychiatry outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital. Sociodemographic and clinical variables, including diagnosis based on International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision criteria, were assessed. Sexual functioning was measured by the Change in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire-Male Version (CSFQ-M).

Results:

In the study, sexual pleasure dysfunction, sexual desire dysfunction, sexual desire/interest dysfunction, sexual arousal/erection dysfunction, and sexual orgasmic dysfunction were 71%, 71%, 66%, 68%, and 73%, respectively. Pearson correlation between Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score and sexual desire/interest component of CSFQ-M was r = 0.209 ( P = .008). Correlation between Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale score and sexual desire/frequency component was r = 0.095 ( P = .012), sexual desire/interest component yielded r = 0.114 ( P = .029) and sexual arousal/erection component yielded r = 0.134 ( P = .052).

Conclusions:

Certain areas of sexual functioning are impacted by depression and/or anxiety disorders symptoms. The hypothesis that those with depression and/or anxiety would have lesser overall sexual functioning is supported in some areas by the results. Clinicians should be vigilant of this association and should plan treatment to enhance compliance and outcome.
A Text-Mining Analysis to Examine Dominant Sources of Online Information and Content on Continuous Glucose Monitors
Authors: Heitkemper Elizabeth M. , Wilcox Gary B. , Zuñiga Julie , Kim Miyong T. , Cuevas Heather
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to use text-mining methods to examine the dominant sources of online information and content about continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). Because the internet is the most popular source for health information, it is important to understand what is being said about CGMs in online sources of information.

Methods

A text miner, algorithmic-driven statistical program was used to identify the main sources of online information and topics on CGMs. Content was limited to English and was posted from August 1, 2020, to August 4, 2022. Using Brandwatch software, 17 940 messages were identified. After cleaning, there were 10 677 messages in final analyses conducted using SAS Text Miner V.12.1 software.

Results

The analysis identified 20 topics that formed 7 themes. Results show that most online information comes from news sources and focuses on the general benefits of CGM use. Beneficial aspects ranged from improvements in self-management behaviors, cost, and glucose levels. None of the themes mentioned changes to practice, research, or policies related to CGM.

Conclusions

To improve diffusion of information and innovations going forward, novel ways of information sharing should be explored, such as diabetes specialist, provider, and researcher engagement in social media and digital storytelling.
Advancing preclinical cancer models to assess clinically relevant outcomes
Authors: Golebiewska Anna , Fields Ryan C.
Published: March 2023

Cancer models are indispensable research tools for elucidating the mechanisms involved in tumor onset, progression and treatment resistance. They are key in evaluating therapeutics prior clinical trials. In this editorial, we invite contributions for a BMC Cancer’s Collection of articles addressing ‘Advances in pre-clinical cancer models’ towards relivable outcomes at the preclinical stage.
Northern Ireland Cohort for the Longitudinal Study of Ageing (NICOLA): health assessment protocol, participant profile and patterns of participation
Authors: Neville Charlotte E , Young Ian S , Kee Frank , Hogg Ruth E , Scott Angela , Burns Frances , Woodside Jayne V , McGuinness Bernadette
Published: March 2023

Background

The Northern Ireland Cohort for the Longitudinal Study of Ageing (NICOLA) is a prospective, longitudinal study of a representative cohort of older adults living in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. Its aim is to explore the social, behavioural, economic and biological factors of ageing and how these factors change as people age. The study has been designed to maximize comparability with other international studies of ageing thereby facilitating cross-country comparisons. This paper provides an overview of the design and methodology of the health assessment which was carried out as part of Wave 1.

Methods

Three thousand, six hundred and fifty five community dwelling adults, aged 50 years and over participated in the health assessment as part of Wave 1 of NICOLA. The health assessment included a battery of measurements across various domains that addressed key indicators of ageing namely: physical function, vision and hearing, cognitive function, and cardiovascular health. This manuscript describes the scientific rationale for the choice of assessments, provides an overview of the core objective measures carried out in the health assessment and describes the differences in characteristics of participants who took part in the health assessment compared to those who did not take part.

Results

The manuscript highlights the importance of incorporating objective measures of health in population based studies as a means of complementing subjective measures and as a way to advance our understanding of the ageing process. The findings contextualize NICOLA as a data resource within Dementias Platform UK (DPUK), the Gateway to Global Ageing (G2G) and other existing networks of population based longitudinal studies of ageing.

Conclusion

This manuscript can help inform design considerations for other population based studies of ageing and facilitate cross-country comparative analysis of key life-course factors affecting healthy ageing such as educational attainment, diet, the accumulation of chronic conditions (including Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and cardiovascular disease) as well as welfare and retirement policies.
Three-dimensional analysis of the relationship between mandibular retromolar space and positional traits of third molars in non-hyperdivergent adults
Authors: Huang Yumei , Chen Yunjia , Yang Dan , Tang Yingying , Yang Ya , Xu Jingfeng , Luo Jun , Zheng Leilei
Published: March 2023

Background

The anatomical position of the mandibular third molars (M3s) is located in the distal-most portions of the molar area. In some previous literature, researchers evaluated the relationship between retromolar space (RS) and different classifications of M3 in three‑dimensional (3D) cone—beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods

Two hundred six M3s from 103 patients were included. M3s were grouped according to four classification criteria: PG-A/B/C, PG-I/II/III, mesiodistal angle and buccolingual angle. 3D hard tissue models were reconstructed by CBCT digital imaging. RS was measured respectively by utilizing the fitting WALA ridge plane (WP) which was fitted by the least square method and the occlusal plane (OP) as reference planes. SPSS (version 26) was used to analyze the data.

Results

In all criteria evaluated, RS decreased steadily from the crown to the root (P < 0.05), the minimum was at the root tip. From PG-A classification, PG-B classification to PG-C classification and from PG-I classification, PG-II classification to PG-III classification, RS both appeared a diminishing tendency (P < 0.05). As the degree of mesial tilt decreased, RS appeared an increasing trend (P < 0.05). RS in classification criteria of buccolingual angle had no statistical difference (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

RS was associated with positional classifications of the M3. In the clinic, RS can be evaluated by watching the Pell&Gregory classification and mesial angle of M3.
Upscaling cervical cancer screening and treatment for women living with HIV at a rural referral hospital in Tanzania: protocol of a before-and-after study exploring HPV testing and novel diagnostics
Authors: Di Salvo Ivana , Mnzava Dorcas , Nicoletti Giovanni Jacopo , Senkoro Elizabeth , Ndege Robert C. , Huang Dorothy J. , Makunja Nathalia Tobias , Kassiga George I. , Kaufmann Andreas M. , Weisser Maja , Kind André B.
Published: March 2023

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is nearly always caused by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. It is the most common cancer among women living with HIV (WLWH) and is the leading cause of cancer-related death in women in East Africa, with 10,241 new cases reported in Tanzania in 2020. In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) presented a global strategy for the elimination of CC as a public health problem, proposing targets to meet by 2030 for HPV vaccine coverage (90% of all 15-year-old girls), CC screening (70% of all women once at 35 and again at 45 years of age) and treatment delivery, to be scaled at national and subnational levels with a context-sensitive approach. This study aims to evaluate the upscaling of screening and treatment services at a rural referral hospital in Tanzania in order to address the second and third WHO targets.

Methods

This is an implementation study with a before-and-after design performed at St. Francis Referral Hospital (SFRH) in Ifakara (south-central Tanzania). CC screening and treatment services are integrated within the local HIV Care and Treatment Center (CTC). The standard of care, consisting of visualization of the cervix with acetic acid (VIA) and cryotherapy has been up-scaled with self-sampled HPV testing and also involved the introduction of mobile colposcopy, thermal ablation and loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). Participants are WLWH aged 18 to 65 years. Outcome measures included the percentage of women screened, HPV prevalence and genotype, and adherence to screening, treatment and follow-up plan. Additionally, we will explore the performance of novel diagnostic tests (QG-MPH®, Prevo-Check® and PT Monitor®), which share the features of being manageable and inexpensive, and thus a potential tool for effective triage in HPV high-prevalence cohorts.

Discussion

The study will provide relevant information about HPV prevalence and persistence, as well as reproductive and lifestyle indicators in a CC high-risk cohort of WLWH and about upscaling screening and treatment services at the level of a rural referral hospital in Tanzania. Furthermore, it will provide exploratory data on novel assays.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05256862, date of registration 25/02/2022. Retrospectively registered.