bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MPs-ACT, an Assay to Evaluate the Procoagulant Activity of Microparticles
Authors: Gao Yalong , Li Xiaotian , Qin Yafei , Men Jianlong , Ren Jing , Li Xiaochun , Xu Chunlei , Li Qifeng , Li Ying , Cui Weiyun , Zhang Shu , Li Lei , Li Yaohua , Zhang Jianning , Liu Li
Published: February 2023

The procoagulant effect of microparticles (MPs) contributes to hypercoagulability-induced thrombosis. We provide preliminary findings of the MPs-Activated Clotting Time (MPs-ACT) assay to determine the procoagulant activity of MPs. MPs-rich plasma was obtained and recalcified. Changes in plasma viscoelasticity were evaluated and the time to the peak viscoelastic changes was defined as the MPs-ACT. MPs concentration was measured by flow cytometry. Coagulation products produced during plasma clotting were identified by fibrin and fibrinopeptide A. MPs were prepared in vitro and added to standard plasma to simulate pathological samples. In addition, reproducibility and sensitivity were evaluated. We confirmed the linear relationship between MPs-ACT and MP concentrations. Dynamic changes in fibrin production were depicted. We simulated the correlation between MPs-ACT and standard plasma containing MPs prepared in vitro. The reproducibility of high-value and low-value samples was 6.0% and 10.8%, respectively. MPs-ACT sensitively detected hypercoagulable samples from patients with pre-eclampsia, hip fractures, and lung tumors. MPs-ACT largely reflects the procoagulant effect of MPs. MPs-ACT sensitively and rapidly detects hypercoagulability with MPs-rich plasma. It may be promising for the diagnosis of hypercoagulable states induced by MPs.
A novel surgical correction technique of involutional entropion by combined triangular tarsectomy, orbicularis muscle tightening and inferior retractor plication
Authors: Eldesouky Mohammed A , Abouelatta Mahmoud M , Shabana Reham R , Elbedewy Hazem A
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Describing a novel collective technique for treatment of involutional entropion of the lower eyelids in patients aged 55 years old or more.

Methods

A prospective comparative study included 56 patients (69 eyelids), recruited from the outpatient clinic of Tanta University Eye Hospital, presented with involutional lower eyelid entropion either primary or secondary. They were divided into: 1- Group A 42 eyelids with excessive horizontal lid laxity (pinch test > 8.0 mm), who underwent Combined tarsectomy of a triangle with base down and horizontal tightening of orbicularis muscle. 2- Group B: 27 eyelids with excessive horizontal lid laxity (pinch test < 8.0 mm) who underwent vertical tightening of orbicularis muscle. Follow up of the patients up to 12 month and satisfaction recording were done.

Results

The mean age of Group A was 60.08 ± 8.38 and of Group B was 55.10 ± 7.40. An overall high success rate (91.07%) and a low recurrence rate (8.92%) with a high post-operative satisfaction, both functionally and cosmetically (96.42%), were reported.

Conclusion

Combined procedures with addressing the horizontal tightening was associated with a higher success rate and a lower recurrence rate.
HCV Genotype Distribution Among People Who Inject Drug in Turkey: Findings from Multicenter and Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Dilbaz Nesrin , Kuloğlu Murat , Evren Ekrem Cuneyt , Paltun Salih Cihat , Bilici Rabia , Noyan Cemal Onur , Kulaksizoglu Burak , Karabulut Vahap , Umut Gokhan , Unubol Basak , Ucbilek Enver
Published: February 2023

Background:

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is very common in people who inject drugs (PWID). Studies about the prevalence and genotype distribution of the HCV among PWID are very crucial for developing strategies to manage HCV infection. This study’s objective is to map the distribution of HCV genotypes among PWID from various regions of Turkey.

Method:

This prospective, multicenter, cross-sectional study involved 197 PWID who tested positive for anti-HCV antibodies from 4 different addiction treatment facilities in Turkey. Interviews were done with people who had anti-HCV antibodies, and blood samples were taken to check the HCV RNA viremia load and genotyping.

Results:

This study was conducted on 197 individuals with a mean age of 30.3 ± 8.6 years. 9.1% (136/197 patients) had a detectable HCV-RNA viral load. Genotype 3 was the most commonly observed genotype by 44.1%, followed by genotype 1a by 41.9%, genotype 2 by 5.1%, genotype 4 by 4.4%, and genotype 1b by 4.4%. Whereas genotype 3 was dominant with 44.4% at the central Anatolia region of Turkey, the frequencies of genotypes 1a and 3, which were predominantly detected in the south and northwest regions of Turkey, were very close to each other.

Conclusion:

Although genotype 3 is the predominant genotype in the PWID population in Turkey, the prevalence of HCV genotype varied across the country. To eliminate HCV infection in the PWID, treatment and screening strategies that differ by genotype are essentially required. Especially identification of genotypes will be useful in developing individualized treatments and determining national prevention strategies.
Inguinoscrotal Bladder Hernia Mimicking Testicle Tumor
Authors: Sezgin Ceren , Duzgun Fatih , Mutevelizade Gozde , Gumuser Gul , Sayit Elvan
Published: February 2023

Bladder hernias usually begin asymptomatically and are discovered incidentally at the time of discovery. Preoperative diagnosis of bladder hernias is important to reduce the risk of bladder injury during surgery. Although F-18 FDG PET/CT is applied for oncological purposes, benign conditions should also be taken into account when evaluating the implants. In this article, a case of bladder hernia, which can be confused with pathological cancer involvement, with the diagnosis of F-18 FDG PET/CT performed in a 73-year-old male patient with renal cell carcinoma is presented.
The production and consumption of news podcasts
Authors: Sang Yoonmo , Lee Jee Young , Park Sora
Published: February 2023

This special issue, which focuses on the Asia-Pacific region, brings together five articles addressing the use of podcasting in a journalistic context. Drawing on articles that cover diverse topics, this issue paints a larger picture of how news podcasts are created and consumed in various global contexts. Implications are discussed. Reflecting different global contexts, the articles herein address such topics as health, politics and sports and invite researchers to explore the potential and limitations of news podcasts from a wide range of perspectives.
Maximal calf conductance is associated with 6-minute walk distance in participants with and without peripheral artery disease
Authors: Gardner Andrew W , Montgomery Polly S , Wang Ming , Liang Menglu , Proctor David N
Published: February 2023

Introduction:

The aims were (a) to compare the maximal calf conductance and 6-minute walk distance of participants with and without peripheral artery disease (PAD) and claudication, (b) to determine whether maximal calf conductance was more strongly associated with 6-minute walk distance in participants with PAD than in the controls, and (c) to determine whether this association was significant in participants with PAD after adjusting for ABI, as well as for demographic, anthropometric, and comorbid variables.

Methods:

Participants with PAD ( n = 633) and without PAD ( n = 327) were assessed on maximal calf conductance using venous occlusion plethysmography, and on 6-minute walk distance. Participants were further characterized on ABI, and on demographic, anthropometric, and comorbid variables.

Results:

The PAD group had lower maximal calf conductance than the control group (0.136 ± 0.071 vs 0.201 ± 0.113 mL/100 mL/min/mmHg, p < 0.001). Additionally, the PAD group had a lower 6-minute walk distance (375 ± 98 m vs 480 ± 107 m, p < 0.001). Maximal calf conductance was positively associated with 6-minute walk distance in both groups ( p < 0.001) and was more strongly associated in the PAD group ( p < 0.001). In adjusted analyses, maximal calf conductance remained positively associated with 6-minute walk distance in the PAD group ( p < 0.001) and in the control group ( p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Participants with PAD and claudication had impaired maximal calf conductance and a lower 6-minute walk distance than those without PAD, and maximal calf conductance was positively and independently associated with 6-minute walk distance within each group before and after adjusting for ABI, and for demographic, anthropometric, and comorbid variables.
“Any cosmo girl would’ve known”: Collaboration, feminine knowledge, and Femme theory in Legally Blonde
Authors: Schwartz Andi
Published: February 2023

In 2001, the film Legally Blonde was released into a pop cultural landscape saturated with the Spice Girls’ brand of feminism-lite and postfeminist media texts like Sex and the City (1998–2004). With its firm hold on “girlie” feminism, Legally Blonde is postfeminist — but not post-femme. I extend the claim that femme theory can be located in low-cultural spaces and texts to understand the “chick flick” as another possible site of femme theory. I argue that Legally Blonde demonstrates that femme resistance can be located in the success of femininity, rather than only in its failure.
Free vibration analysis of stepped FGM nanobeams using nonlocal dynamic stiffness model
Authors: Tran Lien V , Tran Dinh B , Phan Phuong TT
Published: February 2023

A nonlocal Dynamic Stiffness Model (DSM) for free vibration analysis of Functionally Graded Material (FGM) nanobeams on a Winkler elastic foundation based on the Nonlocal Elastic Theory (NET) is proposed. The NET model considers the length scale parameter, which can capture the small scale effect of nanostructures considering the interactions of non-adjacent atoms and molecules. Material characteristics of FGM nanobeams are considered nonlinearly varying throughout the thickness. The nanobeams are modelled according to the Timoshenko beam theory and its equations of motion are derived using Hamilton’s principle. The DSM is used to obtain an exact solution of the equation of motion taking into account the neutral axis position. This nonlocal DSM proposed has overcome the stiffening phenomena of the cantilever beam fundamental frequency and validated by comparing the obtained results with published results. Afterwards the proposed model is applied to investigate free vibrations of stepped FGM nanobeams. Numerical results are presented to show the influence of the material distribution profile, geometry, nonlocal, elastic foundation and boundary conditions on the free vibration of stepped FGM nanobeams. It is shown that the proposed nonlocal DSM can be applied to more complex stepped nanostructures.
Challenging journalistic objectivity: How journalists of color call for a reckoning
Authors: Schmidt Thomas R
Published: February 2023

This study explores how journalists in the United States advocated for a stronger affirmation of social justice in journalism following the murder of George Floyd in 2020. Analyzing the metajournalistic discourse in trade publications ( Niemanlab, Columbia Journalism Review, Poynter) and on the web, this study traces how journalists and commentators challenged the professional norm of journalistic objectivity. In particular, it examines how journalistic objectivity became identified as a problematic concept, what journalists were suggesting as its alternative, and how the journalistic establishment responded. This study identifies three dimensions of criticisms and connects these to disagreements within specific modalities of journalistic objectivity (procedural, ethical, ideological). Ultimately, this analysis locates an ideological struggle in which fundamental moral norms of journalism are not only being vigorously contested but also rearticulated and renegotiated.
Palestinian and Jewish public representatives' attitudes toward violence in the Palestinian community in Israel: Conspiracy and cultural violence perspectives
Authors: ‘Ali Nohad
Published: February 2023

In the last decade, the spread of the violence became one of the most worrying phenomena in the Palestinian Arab community in Israel. This article focuses on the violence where victims and offenders come from Palestinian Arab community in Israel. Its purpose is to review the attitudes of the public figures in the Jewish and the Palestinian Arab communities of the country regarding the violence in the latter community through the lens of the conspiracy and the cultural violence theories. The review shows that some leaders of the Palestinian Arab community tend to refer to the persistence of violence and crime in their community in a cospirative way. Their key claim is that the state authorities intentionally neglect this phenomenon and possibly have some sinister goal behind this way of conduction. In contrast, public representatives of the Jewish community tend to refer to the persistence of violence and crime in Palestinian Arab community in cultural terms. Their key claim is that violence in Palestinian Arab community is deeply rooted in the culture of this community. The review suggests that the attitudes reflect the discourse around the “blaming the victim” concept, whereas representatives of the hegemonic Jewish majority use this tactic in their cultural violence rhetoric, and representatives of the dispossessed Palestinian Arab minority complain against it using the conspiracy beliefs. The review is concluded with broad implications for the Israeli society.
What Constitutes Substantive Representation, and Where Should We Evaluate It?
Authors: Siow Orly
Published: February 2023

This short article introduces a novel framework for conceiving of the substantive representation of marginalized groups – in this case, racially minoritized women in the UK House of Commons. I outline a rubric of eight facets of substantive representation. These evaluate the degree to which claims that constitute a group are also substantively representative of that group. In doing so, I contribute a much-needed framework for distinguishing between representative claims which speak on behalf of a group versus those which merely speak about, or even against, that group. I argue that substantive representation must be considered intersectionally, reflecting the multiple structures positioning those represented. Furthermore, all facets of substantive representation can rarely be contributed by a single parliamentary speech, individual, or narrow group of legislators such as descriptive representatives. Therefore, I suggest that empirical studies of substantive representation should include a greater evaluation of the collective work of institutions as a whole.
Psychological Distress Among Domestic Burglary Victims: A Systematic Review of Possible Risk and Protective Factors
Authors: Kunst Maarten , Hoek Dante
Published: February 2023

Domestic burglary victimization is a potentially traumatic experience, because most people consider their home as an extension of the self and a place where the self is protected against others. Intrusions to such a highly valued place are therefore considered as attacks to both one’s personhood and one’s safety and privacy and may render victims at risk of psychological distress. In view of the legal obligations most countries have with regard to screening crime victims for psychological distress, this study systematically reviewed the literature on determinants of psychological distress in domestic burglary victims. Web of Science, EBSCO, and ProQuest databases and reference lists were searched between February and July 2022 to identify relevant studies. In all, 10 studies met all inclusion criteria and were evaluated according to the Cambridge Quality Checklists. These checklists have been developed to assess the methodological qualities of observational research. Findings of included studies suggest that female sex, damages caused by the burglary, and evaluations of the police response are potential determinants of psychological distress. However, given the dearth of research and the old age and theoretical and methodological limitations of included studies, it is too early to draw definite conclusions about the predictive value of these and other factors and to provide directions for screening policies. Future research should use prospective designs to overcome these limitations and ensure that domestic burglary victims at risk of psychological distress are timely referred to adequate professional help services.
The Fantasy of Do What You Love and Ludic Authoritarianism in the Videogame Industry
Authors: Bulut Ergin
Published: February 2023

Like other creative workers, videogame developers believe doing what you love (DWYL) brings success and happiness. Drawing on three years of ethnography in a U.S. based studio, I theorize DWYL as a social fantasy, which glues developers to work despite cruelties. Because developers’ attachment to work is not an individual matter of the heart but a powerful relation that is mutually cultivated, desired, and even joyfully dictated, I conceptualize these cruelties through “ludic authoritarianism”, redefined as a diffuse form of workplace regime. In this regime, both the management and developers invest in the DWYL fantasy that normalizes overwork, creates success mythologies, institutes vague performance metrics, and cultivates discriminatory production cultures. Moving beyond “love at work brings exploitation” narratives, I show how authoritarianism is not a deviant political form in non-Western contexts but a diffuse and playful culture across elite workplaces in the Global North.
Evaluation of the wearing comfort properties for winter used electromagnetic interference shielding sandwich materials
Authors: Wang Dan , Hu Shi , Kremenakova Dana , Militky Jiri
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates the electromagnetic interference shielding effect and wearing comfort properties of a sandwich material consisting of a surface layer, an electromagnetic interference shielding layer, a thermal insulation layer, and a lining layer. The main aim is to research its potential as a winter jacket’s material for shielding electromagnetic radiation and the relationship between single-layer fabric samples and multi-layer sandwich materials under different properties. Experimentally, it is found that the electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness of the sandwich materials is only determined by the electromagnetic interference shielding layer fabric sample, the other layers’ fabric samples have no significant impact on the electromagnetic interference shielding effect. In this paper, the air permeability of the sandwich materials is 25 to 50% lower than that of the single-layer fabric samples with the lowest air permeability in their combination. And the water vapor resistance of the sandwich materials is 40 to 60% higher than that of the single-layer fabric samples with the highest water vapor resistance in their combination. The thermal resistances of the sandwich materials measured by the Alambeta are lower than those calculated by the sum of the individual layers’ thermal resistance, which may be caused by the reduction in the internal air of the sandwich materials. Finally, the quality index evaluation is used to select the most suitable sandwich material for the winter jacket against electromagnetic radiation, which achieves the purpose of balancing the electromagnetic interference shielding effect and wearing comfort.
Identification and validation of hub genes in CD5-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Yang Ming , Niu Xingjian , Yang Xudong , Sun Yutian , Su Wenjia , Zhang Jing , Wu Qianjiang , Wang Yiran , Zhang Qingyuan , Ji Hongfei
Published: February 2023

CD5+ diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), as a significant heterogeneity category of DLBCL, is reflected in both the molecular biological and genetic levels, which in turn induces ever-changing clinical manifestations, and what mediates tumor survival mechanisms are still unclear. This study aimed to predict the potential hub genes in CD5+ DLBCL. A total of 622 patients with DLBCL diagnosed between 2005 and 2019 were included. High expression of CD5 was correlated with IPI, LDH, and Ann Arbor stage, patients with CD5-DLBCL have longer overall survival. We identified 976 DEGs between CD5-negative and positive DLBCL patients in the GEO database and performed GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. After intersecting the genes obtained through the Cytohubba and MCODE, further external verification was performed in the TCGA database. Three hub genes were screened: VSTM2B, GRIA3, and CCND2, of which CCND2 were mainly involved in cell cycle regulation and JAK-STAT signaling pathways. Analysis of clinical samples showed that the expression of CCND2 was found to be correlated with CD5 ( p = 0.001), and patients with overexpression of CCND2 in CD5+ DLBCL had poor prognosis ( p = 0.0455). Cox risk regression analysis showed that, for DLBCL, CD5, and CCND2 double positive was an independent poor prognostic factor (HR: 2.545; 95% CI: 1.072–6.043; p = 0.034). These findings demonstrate that CD5 and CCND2 double-positive tumors should be stratified into specific subgroups of DLBCL with poor prognosis. CD5 may regulate CCND2 through JAK-STAT signaling pathways, mediating tumor survival. This study provides independent adverse prognostic factors for risk assessment and treatment strategies for newly diagnosed DLBCL.
Preservation of Audiovisual Collections at Albert Ilemobade Library, Federal University of Technology Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Rasaki Oluwole Ejiwoye , Egbedokun Adeola Oyebisi , Adedimeji Akeem Adedayo
Published: February 2023

The study investigates audiovisual collections at the Albert Ilemobade Library, The Federal University of Technology Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria. Condition surveying, observation, and interview were the instruments used for data collection. Condition survey was conducted on audiovisual materials in the unit to ascertain their continuing accessibility and usability. The result revealed that most of the audiovisual materials are carrier-based analog format and are inaccessible owing to unavailability and obsolete playback equipment. Technology obsolescence, improper storage environment, lack of funding, lack of commitment by library management, and lack of trained personnel in audiovisual preservation were identified challenges of audiovisual preservation in the library. The study recommends digitization of analog carrier-based audiovisual materials, adequate funding, conducive storage environment, recruitment of preservation expert, and change of attitude to preservation of information materials.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy and Safety of Tamsulosin Plus Tadalafil Compared With Tamsulosin Alone in Treating Males With Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Secondary to Benign Prostrate Hyperplasia
Authors: Zhou Rui , Che Xuanyan , Zhou Zhongbao , Ma Yue
Published: February 2023

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostrate hyperplasia (BPH) are common geriatric diseases, and its incidence rises with age. The treatment of BPH and LUTS is becoming a burden for health care. The meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy (tamsulosin plus tadalafil) compared with tamsulosin alone in treatment of males with LUTS/BPH. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses were utilized to conduct this study. There were several databases available for literature retrieval, including Medline, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science databases, and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register. To improve the comprehensiveness of the search, related references were also searched. Finally, six randomized controlled trials including 441 patients were included. The combination therapy had significant improvements in total International Prostate Symptom Score ( p < .0001), quality of life score ( p = .003), maximum urine flow rate ( p < .00001), and International Index of Erectile Function ( p < .00001) compared with the tamsulosin monotherapy, but there was no obvious difference in postvoid residual volume ( p = .06). In terms of safety, the combination group had comparable rates of discontinuation due to adverse events ( p = .19) than the monotherapy group except for pain symptoms ( p < .0001). The combination of tamsulosin and tadalafil provided a preferable therapeutic effect compared with the tamsulosin alone in treating males with BPH/LUTS, and both therapy regimens were well tolerated by the patients.
Access to cavernous dAVF via occluded superior petrosal Sinus
Authors: Raz Eytan , Sharashidze Vera , Grossman Scott , Ali Aryan , Narayan Vinayak , Nossek Erez , Stein Evan , Nelson Peter Kim , Shapiro Maksim
Published: February 2023

There are multiple treatment alternatives for cavernous dAVFs, with transvenous routes being most common. Among these routes, occluded inferior petrosal sinus is well-described, and, apart from being imaginative and elegant, it is also safe and effective. Herein we describe the application of this method to reach the fistulous pouch of a cavernous dAVF via an occluded superior petrosal sinus.
Fault diagnosis of gearbox based on adaptive wavelet de-noising and convolution neural network
Authors: Xu Hui , Cai Chaozhi , Chi Yaolei , Zhang Nan
Published: February 2023

In this paper, in order to solve the problem that it is difficult to carry out accurate fault diagnosis for gearbox under noise environment, complete ensemble imperial mode decomposition with adaptive noise analysis (CEEMDAN) is used to solve the sample entropy of the original signal and each intrinsic mode function (IMF) component, adaptive wavelet is adopted to decompose and reconstruct IMF with large sample entropy for noise reduction, and first layer wide convolution kernel deep convolution neural network (WDCNN) and long short term memory (LSTM) are used to extract the basic digital features of the reconstructed signal and the correlation features between the features. Therefore, a new fault diagnosis method for gearbox under noise environment is proposed. Taking the public data set of Jiangsu Qiangpeng Diagnostic Engineering Co., Ltd as the research object, the experiments were carried out with the method proposed in this paper. The experimental results show that the proposed method has high accuracy and strong anti-noise ability. Under the environment of no noise and low noise, the fault diagnosis accuracy of the gearbox is 100%; even if the signal to noise ratio is −4 dB, the fault diagnosis accuracy of the gearbox can still reach 99.97%. Therefore, this paper provides a method support for gearbox fault diagnosis under noise environment.
The predictive role of intimate partner violence in treatment adherence among women with chronic illness: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Bagherzadeh Razieh , Sayad Nik Azemat , Gharibi Tayebeh , Vahedparast Hakimeh
Published: February 2023

Objective

This study was an attempt to shed light on the predictive role of intimate partner violence in adhering to treatment regimens in women with chronic illnesses.

Method

In a descriptive-analytical study, 400women with chronic illnesses in Bushehr were selected through convenience sampling. The data were collected by distributing a demographic information form and two questionnaires, including the intimate partner violence (IPV) questionnaire and the treatment adherence scale.

Results

According to the results, the 40 to 59 years age group ( P = 0.046, β = 0.104), the 60 to 79 years age group ( P = 0.019, β = 0.122), and the group receiving education about chronic illness ( P = 0.031, β = 0.106) showed a direct relationship with treatment adherence, while IPV ( P < 0.001, β = 0.284) had a significant inverse relationship with treatment adherence.

Conclusion

The results of the study showed that predictors of treatment adherence are IPV in women aged 40 and older with chronic illnesses, and receiving education about chronic illnesses. It is necessary for healthcare providers to consider barriers such as intimate partner violence when providing education in order to increase treatment adherence. To avoid nonadherence, managers and health planners should implement policies to increase the level of awareness of healthcare staff on how to manage care of women with chronic illnesses who are abused by an intimate partner and refer them to counselors and family helpers.
Sound–action symbolism in relation to precision manipulation and whole-hand grasp usage
Authors: Vainio Lari , Kilpeläinen Markku , Wikström Alexandra , Vainio Martti
Published: February 2023

It has been suggested that actions can provide a fruitful conceptual context for sound symbolism phenomena, and that tight interaction between manual and articulatory processes might cause that hand actions, in particular, are sound-symbolically associated with specific speech sounds. Experiment 1 investigated whether novel words, built from speech sounds that have been previously linked to precision or power grasp responses, are implicitly associated with perceived actions that present precision manipulation or whole-hand grasp tool-use or the corresponding utilisation pantomimes. In the two-alternative forced-choice task, the participants were more likely to match novel words to tool-use actions and corresponding pantomimes that were sound-symbolically congruent with the words. Experiment 2 showed that the same or even larger sound–action symbolism effect can be observed when the pantomimes present unfamiliar utilisation actions. Based on this we propose that the sound–action symbolism might originate from the same sensorimotor mechanisms that process the meaning of iconic gestural signs. The study presents a novel sound–action phenomenon and supports the view that hand–mouth interaction might manifest itself by associating specific speech sounds with grasp-related utilisations.
Real-life therapeutic effects of beclomethasone dipropionate/formoterol fumarate/glycopyrronium combined triple therapy in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Pelaia Corrado , Procopio Giada , Rotundo Fioramante Lello , Deodato Maria Rosaria , Ferrante Bannera Anna , Tropea Francesco Giuseppe , Cancelliere Anna , Vatrella Alessandro , Pelaia Girolamo
Published: February 2023

Background:

The small airway disease has been recognized as a central feature of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Triple fixed combination beclomethasone dipropionate/formoterol fumarate/glycopyrronium (BDP/FF/G) is provided as a pressurized single-dose inhaler based on an extra-fine formulation, which has been approved for patients with COPD experiencing frequent disease exacerbations.

Methods:

The aim of our real-life single-center observational study was to investigate, in 22 patients with COPD, the effects of BDP/FF/G on lung function, respiratory symptoms, health status, and exacerbation rate. Several clinical and lung functional parameters were evaluated at baseline and after 12 months of treatment with combined inhaled triple therapy.

Results:

With respect to baseline, after 12 months of treatment with BDP/FF/G, significant changes were recorded with regard to forced expiratory flow at 75% of forced vital capacity (FVC) ( p < 0.01), forced expiratory flow at 50% of FVC ( p < 0.01), forced expiratory flow at 25% of FVC ( p < 0.05), and forced mid-expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of FVC ( p < 0.01). Moreover, we observed reductions of total resistance ( p < 0.01), effective resistance ( p < 0.01), and effective specific resistance ( p < 0.01). In the same period, residual volume diminished ( p < 0.01) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s increased ( p < 0.01). Moreover, in a subgroup of 16 patients, an enhancement of diffusion lung capacity ( p < 0.01) was also detected. These functional results were paralleled by concomitant clinical effects, as evidenced by the improvements of modified British Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scale ( p < 0.001), COPD Assessment Test (CAT) score ( p < 0.0001), and COPD exacerbations ( p < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the valuable findings of our observational study consist in the corroboration in a real-life context of the therapeutic effects evidenced by randomized controlled trials with regard to the use of the triple inhaled BDP/FF/G therapy in patients with COPD.
Academic performance in children with pectus excavatum: a real-world research with propensity score matching
Authors: Li Hongbo , Fan Shulei , Kong Xiangpan , Pan Zhengxia , Wu Chun , Li Yonggang , Wang Gang , Dai Jiangtao , He Dawei , Wang Quan
Published: February 2023

Background:

The optimal timing of surgery for pectus excavatum (PE) is controversial. A large proportion of children will not undergo surgery before puberty. However, untimely surgery may lead to a decline in the children’s social adaptation and competitiveness because the children have already developed psychological and physiological impairments due to PE at an early age. The study retrospectively compared the academic performance in PE children undergoing the Nuss procedure versus nonsurgical observation.

Methods:

This retrospective real-world research study included 480 PE patients with definite surgical indications, in whom it was first recommended that they undergo surgery between the ages of 6 and 12 years old. Academic performance was collected at baseline and 6 years later. A generalized linear regression was calculated to screen the factors affecting the performance. A propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was conducted to reduce the potential for confounding factors between surgical and nonsurgical PE patients.

Results:

Haller index (HI) and pulmonary function were recognized as factors affecting baseline performance according to the generalized linear regression. For PE children with surgical indications, their academic performance significantly declined after 6 years of nonsurgical observation (52.1% ± 17.1% versus 58.3% ± 16.7%, p = 0.042). The academic performance in the surgery group was better than that in the nonsurgery group 6 years after PSM (60.7% ± 17.7% versus 52.1% ± 17.1%, p = 0.008).

Conclusions:

The severity of PE will affect the academic performance of children. For PE children with definite surgical indications between the ages of 6 and 12 years old, surgical intervention rather than nonsurgical observation is more conducive to the development of children’s academic performance.
Digital transformation for cold chain management in freight forwarding industry
Authors: Lam HY , Tang Valerie
Published: February 2023

During the pandemic, the attention and demand for cold chain increased owing to considerable use of low-temperature logistics in transporting perishable goods and vaccines. To ensure the shipping performance for reduced damage, logistics companies are required to track continually and repetitively the status of shipments daily. However, typing various air waybills for searching the shipping status is a cause of frequent errors. Also, tracking the shipping status is labor-intensive, resource intensive, inefficient and repetitive. Moreover, repetitive tasks result in low employee satisfaction. Therefore, robotic process automation (RPA) applications have gained the attention of practitioners in the cold chain logistics industry. This study contributes to (i) determining possible areas requiring automation through the workflow study on cold chain logistics and (ii) streamlining the operation by the develop a robotic process automation bots. A case study tested and evaluated the performance of two unattended RPA bots applied in a freight forwarder company to check shipment status and temperature conditions. The results determined that implementing RPA in the workflow reduces significant data processing time. With the implementation of proposed RPA bots, the company can better comprehend its shipping performance of logistics and can get an immediate notification from RPA bots when an abnormal situation occurs with regard to a shipment.
A comparison of three- and two-rod constructs in the correction of severe pediatric scoliosis
Authors: Machida Masayoshi , Rocos Brett , Zeller Reinhard , Lebel David E
Published: February 2023

Purpose:

Managing severe scoliosis is challenging and risky with a significant complication rate regardless of treatment strategy. In this retrospective comparative study, we report our results using a three-rod compared to two-rod construct in the surgical treatment of severe spine deformities to investigate which technique is safer, and which provides superior radiological outcomes.

Methods:

Forty-six consecutive patients undergoing posterior spine fusion for scoliosis between 2006 and 2017 were identified in our institutional records. Inclusion criteria were minimum coronal deformity of 90°, age < 18 years at the time of surgery and a minimum 2 years of follow-up. Radiographic and clinical parameters, as well as post-operative complications were compared between the two groups.

Results:

There were 21 patients in the three-rod group and 25 in the two-rod group. The mean preoperative major coronal deformity was 100°± 9 and 102°± 10 in the three-rod and two-rod, respectively ( p = 0.6). The average major curve correction was 51% and 59% in three-rod and two-rod groups, respectively ( p = 0.03). The post-operative thoracic kyphosis was 30°± 11 and 21°± 12 in the three-rod and the two-rod groups, respectively ( p = 0.01). The surgical time was 476 ± 52 and 387 ± 84 min in three-rod and two-rod, respectively ( p < 0.01). One patient in the two-rod cohort showed permanent post-operative sensory deficit. There were three unplanned returns to operating theater in the two-rod group.

Conclusions:

Coronal correction was better with two-rod, whereas sagittal balance was superior with three-rod. Both techniques achieved balanced spine treating severe scoliosis. The two-rod technique was associated with a higher likelihood of requiring revision surgery.

Level of evidence:

level 3.
A Case of Transverse Myelitis After Moderna Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Vaccination
Authors: Rabbani Bahram , Al-Awwad Ahmad , Samkutty Danny , Anadani Nidhiben
Published: February 2023

Transverse myelitis (TM) is an inflammatory syndrome of the spinal cord that presents with acute-to-subacute neurological deficits. The differential for TM is broad and includes demyelinating, infectious, neoplastic and paraneoplastic, autoimmune, and metabolic/toxic etiologies. With the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus pandemic, more commonly referred to as the coronavirus infectious disease of 2019 (COVID-19), there have been increasing reports of neurological complications. In this case report, we describe a novel case of longitudinally-extensive TM associated with the Moderna vaccination.
State of the Art Medical Management of Nasal Polyps
Authors: Staricha Kelly L. , Ali Hawa M. , Stokken Janalee K.
Published: February 2023

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) is an inflammatory disease with a treatment goal of controlling symptoms and limiting disease burden. While endoscopic sinus surgery is effective for removing polyps and aerating sinuses, proper medical management remains necessary for reducing inflammation and limiting polyp recurrence.

Objective

This article aims to summarize the literature regarding medical treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis, with a specific focus on developments in the past 5 years.

Methodology

We conducted a literature review using PubMed to identify studies assessing medical treatment strategies for patients with CRSwNP. Articles focusing on chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyposis were excluded unless specifically stated. Surgical treatment and biologic therapies for CRSwNP will be covered in subsequent chapters and are therefore not included.

Results

Intranasal saline irrigations and topical steroids are mainstays of CRSwNP treatment in the pre-surgical, post-surgical, and maintenance phases of the disease. Alternative steroid delivery methods and adjunctive treatments with antibiotics, anti-leukotrienes, and other topical therapies have been investigated and may benefit certain patient populations, but convincing evidence does not exist to warrant addition of these treatments to the standard of care for CRSwNP.

Conclusions

Topical steroid therapy is clearly effective for CRSwNP, and recent studies demonstrate the safety and efficacy of high-dose nasal steroid rinses. Alternate delivery methods for local steroids may be useful for patients who are not responding to or who are noncompliant with conventional intranasal corticosteroid sprays and rinses. Future studies are needed to clarify if oral or topical antibiotics, oral anti-leukotrienes, or other novel therapies are significantly effective in decreasing symptoms and improving the quality of life in patients with CRSwNP.
Endotyping Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps: Understanding Inflammation Beyond Phenotypes
Authors: Chen Chongjia C. , Buchheit Kathleen M.
Published: February 2023

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a heterogenous group of inflammatory conditions impacting the nose and paranasal sinuses. Our understanding of the underlying pathobiology of CRSwNP has substantially improved due to ongoing translational research efforts. Advances in treatment options, including targeted respiratory biologic therapy for CRSwNP, allow for more personalized approaches for CRSwNP patient care. Patients with CRSwNP are typically classified to one or more endotype based on the presence of type 1, type 2, and type 3 inflammation. This review will discuss recent advances in our understanding of CRSwNP and how this may impact current and future treatment approaches for patients with CRSwNP.
Current Understanding of the Role of Eosinophils in CRSwNP and Implications for Treatment with Mepolizumab and Benralizumab
Authors: Carney A. Simon , Smith Peter K.
Published: February 2023

Background

International consensus statements now subdivide chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) into several phenotypes and endotypes, including the presence of polyps (CRSwNP) and eosinophilia (eCRSwNP). Biological treatments aimed at blocking eosinophilic inflammation in CRSwNP via interleukin 5 (IL5) or the interleukin 5 receptor (IL5R) have demonstrated limited efficacy thus far.

Objective

To review the pathophysiology of eCRSwNP, the evidence for mepolizumab (anti-IL5) and benralizumab (anti-IL5R) in CRSwNP, and to highlight areas for future research and therapeutic intervention.

Methods

Primary and secondary literature search.

Results

Clinical trials on mepolizumab and benralizumab in CRSwNP are limited and restricted by trial design which prevents direct comparison with other interventions, including surgery. Both agents would appear to provide some benefit in reducing nasal polyp size but limited clinical patient benefit. Molecular biological research highlights that eCRSwNP can occur in the absence of IL5 and that other cells/cytokines play an important part in the disease’s pathophysiology.

Conclusion

Blockade of IL5/IL5R alone would appear to provide limited “real life” clinical benefit in patients with CRSwNP due to the complexities of the pathophysiology of the condition. Therapy aimed at several simultaneous cytokine targets has logic but well-designed trials are unlikely to be forthcoming in the short term due to the financial cost and commercial conflicts of interest.
Understanding the CRSwNP Patient as Whole
Authors: Bandi Sindhura , Stephen Ellen , Bansal Keerthi , Mahdavinia Mahboobeh
Published: February 2023

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a distinct inflammatory disease of the upper airways with a significant impact on the health and quality of life of affected patients. Several comorbid conditions such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, sleep disorders, and gastroesophageal reflux disease are commonly reported in patients with CRSwNP.

Objective

In this article, we intended to review the UpToDate information on how these comorbidities can impact CRSwNP patients’ health and well-being.

Methods

A PUBMED search was performed to review relevant recent article on the topic.

Results

While there have been significant advances in the knowledge and management options for CRSwNP in the past few years, additional studies are needed to understand the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms of these associations. In addition, awareness of the impact of CRSwNP on mental health, quality of life, and cognition is paramount to treating this condition.

Conclusion

Recognition and addressing CRSwNP comorbidities such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, sleep disorders, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and cognitive function impairment are important to optimally understand and manage the patient with CRSwNP as a whole.
The role for cochlear implants in microtia and congenital aural atresia: A case report and a review of literature
Authors: Neo Wei Li , Tan Barrie Yau Boon , Tan Adam Ping Meng , Wee Olivia May Ling , Thong Jiun Fong
Published: February 2023

Sensorineural hearing loss resulting from microtia and aural atresia is rare due to different embryologic origins of the external and inner ear. Consequently, cochlear implants are seldom performed in patients with microtia and/or aural atresia. Herein we discuss an 8 year-old boy with congenital aural atresia and microtia who underwent cochlear implant surgery for profound hearing loss with good results. A literature review was performed and discussed. Pre-operative planning with high resolution computed tomography and facial nerve monitoring are crucial in identification and preservation of the facial nerve due to the high rate of aberrant anatomy. Careful incision placement is required particularly if pinna reconstruction is considered. Literature review highlighted various surgical approaches as well as different modalities used for intra-operative facial nerve monitoring. Only one patient had intra-operative complications. Cochlear implant is a viable solution in patients with external ear malformations and severe-profound sensorineural hearing loss. Adequate planning and counselling are essential due to the challenges that may occur in microtia and aural atresia.
Application and investigation of thrombopoiesis-stimulating agents in the treatment of thrombocytopenia
Authors: Huang Lejun , Xu Jianxuan , Zhang Huaying , Wang Mengfan , Zhang Yiyue , Lin Qing
Published: February 2023

Platelets, derived from a certain subpopulation of megakaryocytes, are closely related to hemostasis, coagulation, metastasis, inflammation, and cancer progression. Thrombopoiesis is a dynamic process regulated by various signaling pathways in which thrombopoietin (THPO)–MPL is dominant. Thrombopoiesis-stimulating agents could promote platelet production, showing therapeutic effects in different kinds of thrombocytopenia. Some thrombopoiesis-stimulating agents are currently used in clinical practices to treat thrombocytopenia. The others are not in clinical investigations to deal with thrombocytopenia but have potential in thrombopoiesis. Their potential values in thrombocytopenia treatment should be highly regarded. Novel drug screening models and drug repurposing research have found many new agents and yielded promising outcomes in preclinical or clinical studies. This review will briefly introduce thrombopoiesis-stimulating agents currently or potentially valuable in thrombocytopenia treatment and summarize the possible mechanisms and therapeutic effects, which may enrich the pharmacological armamentarium for the medical treatment of thrombocytopenia.