bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dose-Dependent Association of Inflammatory Cytokines with Carotid Atherosclerosis in Transient Ischaemic Attack: Implications for Clinical Trials
Authors: Coveney Sarah , McCabe John J. , Murphy Sean , Belton Orina , Gray Cleona , Cassidy Tim , Dolan Eamon , de Gaetano Monica , Harbison Joe , Horgan Gillian , Marnane Michael , Merwick Aine , Noone Imelda , Williams David J. , Kelly Peter J.
Published: September 2021

Introduction: The 5-year recurrence risk after ischaemic stroke and transient ischaemic attack (TIA) is 25–30%. Although inflammation may be a target for prevention trials, the contribution of plaque inflammation to acute cerebrovascular events remains unclear. We investigated the association of acute inflammatory cytokines and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) with recently symptomatic carotid atherosclerosis in a prospective cohort study. Methods: Blood and Imaging markers of TIA BIO-TIA) is a multicentre prospective study of imaging and inflammatory markers in patients with TIA. Exclusion criteria were infection and other co-morbid illnesses associated with inflammation. CRP and serum cytokines (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-1β, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, interferon-γ [IFN-γ] and tumour necrosis factor-α [TNF-α]) were measured. All patients had carotid imaging. Results: Two hundred and thirty-eight TIA cases and 64 controls (TIA mimics) were included. Forty-nine (20.6%) cases had symptomatic internal carotid artery stenosis. Pro-inflammatory cytokine levels increased in a dose-dependent manner across controls, TIA without carotid stenosis (CS), and TIA with CS (IL-1β, ptrend = 0.03; IL-6, ptrend < 0.0001; IL-8, ptrend = 0.01; interferon (IFN)-γ, ptrend = 0.005; TNF-α, ptrend = 0.003). Results were unchanged when DWI-positive cases were excluded. On multivariable linear regression, only age (p = 0.01) and CS (p = 0.04) independently predicted log-IL-6. On multivariable Cox regression, CRP was the only independent predictor of 90-day stroke recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio per 1-unit increase 1.03 [95% CI: 1.01–1.05], p = 0.003). Conclusion: Symptomatic carotid atherosclerosis was associated with elevated cytokines in TIA patients after controlling for other sources of inflammation. High-sensitivity CRP was associated with recurrent ischaemic stroke at 90 days. These findings implicate acute plaque inflammation in the pathogenesis of cerebral thromboembolism and support a rationale for randomized trials of anti-inflammatory therapy for stroke patients, who were excluded from coronary trials.
Predicting Future Renal Function Decline in Patients with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease Using Mayo Clinic Classification
Authors: Borrego Utiel Francisco José , Esteban de la Rosa Rafael José , Merino García Enoc , Medina Benítez Antonio , Polo Moyano Aurora , Moriana Domínguez Clara , Morales García Ana Isabel , Bravo Soto Juan Antonio
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Mayo clinic classification (MCC) has been proposed in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) to identify who may experience a rapid decline of renal function. Our aim was to validate this predictive model in a population from southern Spain. Methods: ADPKD patients with measurements of height-adjusted total kidney volume (HtTKV) and baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >30 mL/min/1.73 m2 were selected. Last eGFR was estimated with Mayo Clinic (MC) equation and bias and accuracy were studied. We also analyzed predictive capacity of MCC classes using survival analysis and Cox regression models. Results: We included 134 patients with a mean follow-up of 82 months. While baseline eGFR was not different between classes, last eGFR decreased significantly with them. eGFR variation rate was different according to the MCC class with a more rapid decline in 1C, 1D, and 1E classes. Final eGFR predicted was not significantly different from the real one, with an absolute bias of 0.6 ± 17.0 mL/min/1.73 m2. P10 accuracy was low ranging from 37.5 to 59.5% in classes 1C, 1D, and 1E. Using MC equation, the rate of eGFR decline was underestimated in 1C, 1D, and 1E classes. Cox regression analysis showed that MCC class is a predictor of renal survival after adjusting with baseline eGFR, age, sex, and HtTKV, with 1D and 1E classes having the worst prognosis. Conclusion: MCC classification is able to identify patients who will undergo a more rapid decline of renal function in a Spanish population. Prediction of future eGFR with MC equation is acceptable as a group, although it shows a loss of accuracy considering individual values. The rate of eGFR decline calculated using MC equation can underestimate the real rate presented by patients of 1C, 1D, and 1E classes.
The Relationship between the Tissue Expression of TLR2, TLR4, TLR5, and TLR7 and Systemic Inflammatory Responses in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Beilmann-Lehtonen Ines , Hagström Jaana , Kaprio Tuomas , Stenman Ulf-Håkan , Strigård Karin , Palmqvist Richard , Gunnarsson Ulf , Böckelman Camilla , Haglund Caj
Published: September 2021

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed malignancy globally. CRC patients with elevated plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) levels exhibit compromised prognoses. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), activating the innate and adaptive immune systems, may contribute to pro- and antitumorigenic inflammatory responses. We aimed to identify a possible link between local and systemic inflammatory responses in CRC patients by investigating the association between tissue TLRs and plasma CRP. Methods: Tissue expressions of TLR2, TLR4, TLR5, and TLR7 were assessed using immunohistochemistry of tissue microarray slides from 549 CRC patients surgically treated between 1998 and 2005. Blood samples were drawn preoperatively, centrifuged, aliquoted, and stored at −80°C until analysis. Plasma CRP was determined through high-sensitivity time-resolved immunofluorometric assay. We investigated the association of TLRs to clinicopathologic variables, plasma CRP, and survival. Results: High TLR2 expression (hazard ratio [HR] 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.41–0.85; p = 0.005), high TLR5 expression (HR 0.60; 95% CI 0.45–0.83; p = 0.002), positive TLR7 expression (HR 0.49; 95% CI 0.33–0.72; p < 0.001), and low CRP (HR 1.48; 95% CI 1.08–2.11; p = 0.017) were associated with a better prognosis. A high TLR2 immunoexpression was associated with a better prognosis among low-CRP patients (HR 0.53; 95% CI 0.35–0.80; p = 0.002), high TLR4 expression among high-CRP patients (HR 2.04; 95% CI 1.04–4.00; p = 0.038), high TLR5 expression among low-CRP patients (HR 0.059; 95% CI 0.37–0.92; p = 0.021), and positive TLR7 expression among low-CRP patients (HR 0.53; 95% CI 0.28–1.00; p = 0.049). In multivariate analyses, no biomarkers emerged as significant independent variables. Conclusions: High tissue TLR2, TLR5, and TLR7 levels were associated with a better prognosis. Among low-CRP patients, those with high TLR2, TLR5, and TLR7 immunoexpressions exhibited a better prognosis. Among high CRP patients, a high TLR4 immunoexpression was associated with a better prognosis.
Fecal Lactoferrin and Other Putative Fecal Biomarkers in Crohn’s Disease: Do They Still Have a Potential Clinical Role?
Authors: Vernia Filippo , Viscido Angelo , Di Ruscio Mirko , Stefanelli Gianpiero , Valvano Marco , Latella Giovanni
Published: September 2021

Introduction: The need for noninvasive markers of disease activity is mandatory in the assessment of Crohn’s disease (CD). The most widely fecal biomarker in CD, despite several limits, is fecal calprotectin. This review aims to elucidate the role, if any, of all other fecal biomarkers, as alternative tools for assessing clinical and endoscopic disease activity, and predict capsule endoscopy findings, response to therapy, disease relapse, and postoperative recurrence. These fecal biomarkers included lactoferrin, S100A12, high mobility group box 1, neopterin, polymorphonuclear neutrophil elastase, fecal hemoglobin, alpha1-antitrypsin, lysozyme, human beta-defensin-2, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, matrix metalloproteinase-9, chitinase 3-like-1, M2-pyruvate kinase, myeloperoxidase, and eosinophil proteins. Methods: A systematic electronic search in the medical literature was performed up to April 2020. Seventy eligible studies were identified out of 859 citations. Data were grouped according to the assessment of clinical and endoscopic disease activity, capsule endoscopy findings, response to therapy, prediction of relapse, and postoperative recurrence. Results: The overall correlation between lactoferrin and clinical indexes is poor, while performance is good with endoscopic scores. Lactoferrin seems to represent a reasonably good surrogate marker of response to therapy and to be potentially useful in identifying patients at high risk for endoscopic relapse or postoperative recurrence. The evaluation of the performance of all other fecal markers is limited by the lack of adequate data. Conclusions: None of the fecal markers so far represents an acceptable alternative to calprotectin in clinical practice. Fecal lactoferrin is the only possible exception, but a more extensive investigation is still required.
In-Hospital Delirium as a Prognostic Factor for New Cognitive Disorder in a 1-Year Post-Hip Fracture Follow-Up
Authors: Jaatinen Roope , Luukkaala Tiina , Hongisto Markus T. , Helminen Heli , Nuotio Maria S.
Published: September 2021

Background: Older hip fracture patients are at high risk of delirium during acute hospital care. Pre-fracture dementia is known to increase the risk of in-hospital delirium. Data on the development of new cognitive disorders in patients with delirium are scarce. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the prognostic significance of in-hospital delirium on the development of new cognitive disorders in a 1-year follow-up in older hip fracture patients. Material and Methods: Data consisted of 476 hip fracture patients aged 65 years or more with no known cognitive disorder on admission. Delirium was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM). Cognitive disorders were diagnosed following the national guidelines. Information on the new diagnoses of cognitive disorders (NDCD) at 1-year follow-up was elicited in a telephone interview and confirmed from the electronic patient files. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the association of delirium with NDCDs. Results: Of the 476 patients, 87 (18%) had delirium during hospital stay. Patients with delirium were older, they had poorer nutritional status, lower mobility level, and more supported living arrangements than did patients without delirium. At the 1-year time point, 205 (43%) had NDCDs or were strongly suspected of this. CAM result was statistically significantly associated with development of NDCD in multivariable-adjusted analysis (odds ratio [OR] 2.29; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.39–3.79). Also, poor nutritional status continued to be associated with NDCDs (multivariable-adjusted OR 1.58; 95% CI: 1.03–2.43). Conclusion: Delirium during hospitalization and poor nutritional status on admission are independent prognostic factors for development of subsequent cognitive disorders in older hip fracture patients.
Multimolecular-Targeted Agents for Intermediate-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma Influence Time to Stage Progression and Overall Survival
Authors: Shimose Shigeo , Iwamoto Hideki , Tanaka Masatoshi , Niizeki Takashi , Shirono Tomotake , Kajiwara Akira , Noda Yu , Kamachi Naoki , Okamura Shusuke , Nakano Masahito , Kuromatsu Ryoko , Kawaguchi Takumi , Koga Hironori , Torimura Takuji
Published: September 2021

Background & Aims: Intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment has become complicated due to the development of various molecular-targeted agents (MTAs). We aimed to determine whether the administration of MTAs in patients with intermediate-stage HCC contributed to the prevention of progression to an advanced stage. Methods: We enrolled and retrospectively examined 289 patients with Child-Pugh class A who had been diagnosed with intermediate-stage HCC and underwent initial trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE). Patients were classified into 2 groups: a group in which MTAs were administered to patients whose condition was refractory to TACE (n = 65) and a group in which MTAs were not administered (n = 65) at intermediate-stage HCC after propensity score matching (PSM). Time to stage progression (TTSP) and overall survival (OS) were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and analyzed using a log-rank test after PSM. Results: TTSP and OS of the group with MTA administration were significantly longer than those of the group without MTA administration (TTSP: 36.4 vs. 17.9 months, p < 0.001; median survival time [MST]: 44.6 vs. 26.6 months, p = 0.001). Within the up-to-seven criteria and administration of MTAs at the intermediate-stage HCC were identified as independent factors for TTSP and OS in the multivariate analysis. TTSP and OS in the era of the multi-MTA group were significantly longer than those in the era of the mono-MTA group (TTSP: 44.8 vs. 27.4 months, p = 0.01; MST: 53.4 vs. 33.3 months, p = 0.01). Conclusion: The administration of MTAs in patients with intermediate-stage HCC contributes to the prevention of stage progression and prolongs OS.
What’s New with Endoscopic Treatments for Early Gastric Cancer in the “Post-ESD Era”?
Authors: Goto Osamu , Kaise Mitsuru , Iwakiri Katsuhiko
Published: September 2021

Background: Endoscopic treatments for gastric cancers have still been progressing even after the great success of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Summary: In further advancements of ESD, safe and less-invasive procedures are challenged by managing postoperative bleeding, one of the major adverse events in ESD. Covering the mucosal defect after removal of lesions appears reasonable and effective for preventing delayed bleeding from the post-ESD ulcers. Shielding with biodegradable sheets is attempted on clinical trials, which show equivocal results. Although suturing of the mucosal rims is technically challenging, pilot studies demonstrate favorable outcomes for avoiding post-ESD bleeding even in cases at high risk. In cases after noncurative resection of ESD, the selection of patients who truly require additional gastrectomy with lymph node dissection is important to provide necessary surgery. Risk stratification of lymph node metastases and surgery has been developed, which offers tailor-made management to each patient considering the risks and benefits. In surgery, function-preserving gastrectomy to minimize the resection area in both lymphadenectomy and the primary site is clinically introduced. The sentinel node navigation surgery is promising to realize the minimally invasive gastrectomy, and it should strongly fit ESD as well as laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery or endoscopic full-thickness resection, although nonexposure approaches are desirable. Key Message: Development for less-invasive managements on gastric cancer will be continued in step with the advancement of endoscopic treatments.
Improving Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients with Breast or Colon Cancer after End of (Neo)adjuvant Therapy: Results from the Observational Study STEFANO
Authors: Zaiss Matthias , Uhlig Jens , Zahn Mark-Oliver , Decker Thomas , Lehmann Helmar C. , Harde Johanna , Hogrefe Cathrin , Vannier Corinne , Marschner Norbert
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common side effect persisting after completion of neurotoxic chemotherapies. This observational study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the dietary supplement OnLife® (patented mixture of specific fatty acids and palmitoylethanolamide) in improving symptoms of CIPN in breast and colon cancer patients. Methods: Improvement of CIPN was evaluated in adult patients, previously treated with (neo)adjuvant paclitaxel- (breast cancer) or oxaliplatin-based (colon cancer) therapies, receiving OnLife® for 3 months after completion of chemotherapy. The primary endpoint was to compare the severity of peripheral sensory neuropathy (PSN) and peripheral motor neuropathy (PMN) before and at the end of OnLife® treatment. Secondary endpoints included the assessment of patient-reported quality of life and CIPN symptoms as assessed by questionnaires. Results: 146 patients (n = 75 breast cancer patients and n = 71 colon cancer patients) qualified for analysis; 31.1% and 37.5% of breast cancer patients had an improvement of PSN and PMN, respectively. In colon cancer patients, PSN and PMN improved in 16.9% and 20.0% of patients, respectively. According to patient-reported outcomes, 45.9% and 37.5% of patients with paclitaxel-induced PSN and PMN, and 23.9% and 22.0% of patients with oxaliplatin-induced PSN and PMN experienced a reduction of CIPN symptoms, respectively. Conclusion: OnLife® treatment confirmed to be beneficial in reducing CIPN severity and in limiting the progression of neuropathy, more markedly in paclitaxel-treated patients and also in patients with oxaliplatin-induced CIPN.
Rapa Nui: A Case for Correspondence in Reduplication
Authors: Yang Yifan
Published: September 2021

This squib argues for the role of correspondence in reduplication by examining the vowel length alternations in Rapa Nui reduplication. The analysis shows that vowel shortening in the base after reduplication is due to the enforcement of vowel length identity through Base-Reduplicant correspondence, while the motivation of vowel shortening is problematic for theories without surface-to-surface correspondence. The findings suggest that reduplication-phonology interactions cannot be handled solely by serialism or cyclicity, and a parallel Optimality Theory evaluation with BR correspondence is supported.
The synonymy of the genus Permixtimella Guţu, 2016 (Crustacea: Tanaidacea) with Ektraleptochelia Bamber & Marshall, 2015 and remarks on other leptocheliid taxa
Authors: GUȚU MODEST , BIRD GRAHAM J.
Published: September 2021

Guţu (2016) described a new subfamily, seven new genera and 21 new species in the family Leptocheliidae. However, another five genera and twelve new species, not mentioned by him, were described in 2015 and 2016. Study of the overlooked genera reveals that the morphology of the female of Permixtimella (genus described from both sexes) is similar to those of the type-female of the genus Ektraleptochelia (whose male is unknown). Permixtimella is considered a junior synonym of Ektraleptochelia, which includes two species: E. phoxops and E. oculifurcillata. The place of Ektraleptochelia, Catenarius and Larsmentia within leptocheliid systematics, formerly in the subfamily Catenariinae, is reconsidered and the last genus retained. Some similarities between the females of Nuberis and Bathyleptochelia are presented for the first time. The species Leptochelia acrolophus, L. mexicana, L. ortizi, L. taitungensis and L. grandidentata are transferred to other genera, becoming Chondrochelia acrolophus, C. mexicana, C. ortizi, C. taitungensis and Makassaritanais grandidentatus, respectively. The species Leptochelia pinarensis and L. suhi are considered a junior synonym of Leptochelia forresti and Makassaritanais grandidentatus, respectively.
New records of millipedes and centipedes from Bulgaria, with an annotated checklist of the Bulgarian myriapods
Authors: BACHVAROVA DARINA , VAGALINSKI BOYAN , DOICHINOV ALEKSANDAR , STOEV PAVEL
Published: September 2021

The present paper records new and poorly known myriapods (Diplopoda, Chilopoda) collected in Bulgaria in the last 10 years. Four new species are reported as new to the Bulgarian fauna: Lithobius melanops Newport, 1845 (Chilopoda: Lithobiomorpha: Lithodiidae), Polydesmus collaris C.L. Koch, 1847, Polydesmus inconstans Latzel, 1884 and Polydesmus schaessburgensis Verhoeff, 1898 (Diplopoda: Polydesmida: Polydesmidae). Scanning electron micrographs of the gonopods and male leg-pairs 5 and 6 are provided for the first time for Bulgarosoma superficiei Strasser, 1975, a species hitherto known only from its original description. This article presents also an updated list of Myriapoda in Bulgaria. The list includes a total of 251 (sub-)species of the classes Diplopoda (127), Chilopoda (104), Pauropoda (18) and Symphyla (2).
Gebiacantha sagamiensis, a new species of upogebiid shrimp (Crustacea: Decapoda: Gebiidea) from Sagami Bay, central Japan
Authors: KOMAI TOMOYUKI
Published: September 2021

A new species of the upogebiid shrimp genus Gebiacantha Ngoc-Ho, 1989, G. sagamiensis, is described and illustrated on the basis of a single male specimen collected from Sagami Bay, central Japan, at depths of 101–106 m. It appears closest to G. reunionensis Ngoc-Ho, 1989, known only from La Réunion, western Indian Ocean, but the different shape of the pleomere 6 and the better developed armature of the pereopod 1 carpus distinguish the new species from G. reunionensis. Comments on the taxonomic status of Gebiacantha and Paragebicula Sakai, 2006, and on the generic assignment of the new species, are given.
Three new species of the genus Barsine Walker (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) from Taiwan
Authors: VOLYNKIN ANTON V.
Published: September 2021

Three new species of the genus Barsine Walker, 1854 are described from the island of Taiwan: B. geometroides sp. n., B. wui sp. n. and B. witti sp. n. The diagnostic comparison is made with B. ponlai Wu, Fu & Chang, 2013, B. mactans Butler, 1877 and B. callorufa Wu, Fu & Chang, 2013. Adults together with the male and the female genitalia of the new and the similar species are illustrated.
Three-Year Clinical Outcomes Following Implantation of LifeStent Self-Expanding Nitinol Stents in Patients With Femoropopliteal Artery Lesions
Authors: Tan Michinao , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Soga Yoshimitsu , Mori Shinsuke , Tsuchiya Taketsugu , Mazaki Toru , Shintani Yoshiaki , Noguchi Masahiko , Taniguchi Masahito , Kobayashi Yohei , Nakazato Jun , Urasawa Kazushi
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate midterm clinical outcomes after implantation of LifeStent self-expanding nitinol stents for the treatment of femoropopliteal lesions. This retrospective, multicenter, non-randomized study examined 260 femoropopliteal lesions in 250 consecutive patients with peripheral artery disease implanted with LifeStents from April 2016 to April 2017. The prevalence of chronic total occlusion (CTO), lesion length ≥25 cm, and distal reference vessel diameter (RVD) <5 mm was 58%, 35%, and 50%, respectively. The 3-year restenosis rate in the overall population was estimated to be 72.9% and a major adverse limb event was observed in 36.9%. Multivariate analysis revealed that chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) (odds ratio [OR]: 8.04; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.86–34.7), CTO (OR: 4.87; 95% CI: 1.43–16.6), lesion length ≥25 cm (OR: 5.95; 95% CI: 1.11–32.0), and distal RVD <5 mm (OR: 4.43; 95% CI: 1.34–14.6) were independent risk factors for 3-year restenosis. The present study demonstrated the midterm clinical outcomes and risk factors for restenosis after implantation of the LifeStent in femoropopliteal artery lesions. CLTI, CTO, lesion length ≥25 cm, and distal RVD <5 mm predicted decreased patency after a 3-year follow-up.
Food Resilience and Urban Gardener Networks in Sub-Saharan Africa: What Can We Learn from the Experience of the Cape Flats in Cape Town, South Africa?
Authors: Kanosvamhira Tinashe Paul , Tevera Daniel
Published: September 2021

This paper draws on the results of a mixed-methods study that investigates whether urban gardener networks in a low-income neighbourhood in Cape Town are contributing to urban agriculture and food resilience. The findings reveal that the urban gardeners are organised into largely fragmented informal networks whose primary goal is to enhance food resilience. While these networks have succeeded in disseminating information, they have not been able to empower urban gardeners in low-income neighbourhoods to access resources beyond non-governmental organisation assistance. Also, the home gardeners have not succeeded to reorganise, both in terms of form and function, in order to overcome the underlying stress factors, such as poverty, that continue to weaken home gardens in the Cape Flats area. We argue that engagement with urban gardener networks can be a useful way of framing the debate on food resilience in low-income areas of African cities.
A word about . . . Called for such a time as this
Authors: Snow Flesher LeAnn
Published: September 2021

The years 2020 and 2021 are some of the most unusual and memorable in the lives of those on the planet today. The world has been united in its efforts to address and eliminate a global pandemic. The pandemic has heightened our awareness of the intersectionality of class, gender, race, and more, at home and abroad. With health concerns at a zenith, national economies at risk, racial tensions at an all-time high, and environmental concerns looming, we, the people, are called to step up to do our part to bring solutions, resolutions, and conclusions. This moment is not one to sit back and wait, rather a moment for everyone to do their part. We are living on this planet together—each of us has a role to play. What is your role? Do you know?
Where in the world is God? On finding the Divine in Esther
Authors: Newman Elizabeth
Published: September 2021

The word “God” does not appear in the book of Esther. Some argue that this divine absence highlights human action over against Divine providence or sovereignty. I maintain, however, that it is a theological mistake to place divine and human action in separate domains. Divine action is not only the ground that makes human action possible; it is also the compelling spring that draws persons to act faithfully. Aristotle’s account of friendship sheds light on how friends act through one another, enabling each to become and do more than they would have otherwise. Aquinas’s discussion of primary and secondary causality provides compelling insight into how human agency relies upon Divine agency enabling us to move toward our true telos: communion with God. With Esther and Mordecai, one sees shared human agency: both rely upon the other to act. Even more, one sees how their faithfulness derives from their identity as persons in covenant with God, whose saving deeds on behalf of the Jews and the world make their lives possible.
(Re)Assembling Marine Space: Lobster Fishing Areas under Conditions of Technological and Legal Change in Atlantic Canada
Authors: Wiber Melanie G. , Barnett Allain
Published: September 2021

Federal lobster fishing area (LFA) boundaries are part of the infrastructure controlling the temporal and spatial scale of lobster fishing in Atlantic Canada. Changes in the materiality of fishing and accompanying challenges to normative orders affecting access rules have together destabilized the spatial boundaries of LFAs. Changes in lobster distribution, gear innovations to fish in deeper waters, legal maneuverings over licensing, and competition with aquaculture for marine space all challenge LFA boundaries, which changes the distribution of fishing industry benefits and disrupts long-standing local values. Federal managers of the fishery struggle to deal with new assemblages of technology and law and how they interact with marine space. Examining the technology/legal pluralism nexus and their relationship with administrative lines in the water exposes how both affect more-than-human-spatial assemblages.
Tunnelling a calcified total occlusion
Authors: Singh Jogendra , Mahanta Dibyasundar , Mahapatra Rudra P , Barik Ramachandra
Published: September 2021

Among the complex and high-risk coronary intervention cases, a calcified total occlusion of coronary artery poses a great challenge. We came across a 48 years old male who had calcified total occlusion of the right coronary artery. The chronic total occlusion was crossed using Nic-Nano balloon and the calcific plaque was modified using intravascular lithotripsy as an alternative technique to rotational atherectomy which we felt as an evolving alternative approach to treat the calcified total occlusion.
May Thurner syndrome: Sixty years later
Authors: Armenta Flores Romulo , Armenta-Villalobos Diego , Ramirez-Centeno Esteban , Harrison-Ragle Derek , Carrillo Luis G Dominguez
Published: September 2021

May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) was described sixty years ago. Once ignored for several years, it is currently a recognized pathology in the vascular surgery community; but not long ago due to several factors, it was underdiagnosed and sub-optimally treated. In the last 20 years, with renewed interest in venous pathology, technical imaging advances and the recent interventional procedures, it has become a better known disease. On the other hand, nowadays the easiness in diagnosis and treatment of the syndrome has lead to overtreatment of such patients. In this article, we do a historical review and describe the significant advances and current management of May-Thurner syndrome.
Influence of Fatty Infiltration on Hip Abductor Repair Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Looney Austin M. , Bodendorfer Blake M. , Donaldson Stiles T. , Browning Robert B. , Chahla Jorge A. , Nho Shane J.
Published: September 2021

Background:

Increasing evidence supports surgical intervention for hip abductor tears; however, the influence of fatty infiltration (FI) on outcomes after repair remains uncertain and has been addressed only in small case series.

Purpose:

To clarify the relationship between FI and surgical outcomes for hip abductor tears.

Study Design:

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. FI severity was assessed by Goutallier-Fuchs (G-F) grade. The relationship between FI and improvement in Harris Hip Score (HHS)/modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain was examined with mixed-effects metaregression. Outcomes with open and endoscopic techniques were also compared.

Results:

A total of 4 studies (206 repairs in 201 patients) were eligible. High-grade FI was associated with significantly less improvement in HHS/mHHS than both no FI (6.761 less; 95% CI, 3.983-11.570; P = .002) and low-grade FI (7.776 less; 95% CI, 2.460-11.062; P < .001) but did not significantly influence VAS score ( P > .05). Controlling for FI severity, we found no significant difference in HHS/mHHS improvement between open versus endoscopic repair ( P > .05 at each level), but open repair resulted in significantly greater improvement in VAS score for every G-F grade (all P < .005).

Conclusion:

Surgical intervention for symptomatic hip abductor tendon tears improved outcomes as reflected by change in HHS/mHHS; however, the presence of high-grade FI resulted in less improvement. FI severity did not influence VAS scores for pain. Although no differences were found between open and endoscopic repairs in terms of FI-adjusted improvement in HHS/mHHS, open repairs resulted in significantly greater pain relief at each FI level.
Coracoid or Clavicle Fractures Associated With Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Panarello Nicholas M. , Colantonio Donald F. , Harrington Colin J. , Feeley Scott M. , Bandarra Tahler D. , Dickens Jonathan F. , Kilcoyne Kelly G.
Published: September 2021

Background:

Coracoclavicular (CC) ligament reconstruction is a commonly performed procedure for high-grade acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations. Although distal clavicle and coracoid process fractures represent potential complications, they have been described in only case reports and small case series.

Purpose:

To identify the incidence and characteristics of clavicle and coracoid fractures after CC ligament reconstruction.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The US Military Health System Data Repository was queried for patients with a Current Procedural Terminology code for CC ligament repair or reconstruction between October 2013 and March 2020. The electronic health records, including patient characteristics, radiographs, operative reports, and clinical notes, were evaluated for intraoperative or postoperative clavicle or coracoid fractures. Initial operative technique, fracture management, and subsequent clinical outcomes were reviewed for these patients.

Results:

A total of 896 primary CC ligament repairs or reconstructions were performed during the study period. There were 21 postoperative fractures and 1 intraoperative fracture in 20 patients. Of these fractures, 12 involved the coracoid and 10 involved the clavicle. The overall incidence of fracture was 3.81 fractures per 1000 person-years. In 5 patients who sustained a fracture, bone tunnels were not drilled in the fractured bone during the index procedure. A total of 17 fractures were ultimately treated operatively, whereas 5 fractures had nonoperative management. Of the 16 active-duty servicemembers who sustained intraoperative or postoperative fractures, 11 were unable to return to full military duty after their fracture care.

Conclusion:

Fracture of the distal clavicle or coracoid process after CC ligament repair or reconstruction is a rare but serious complication that can occur independent of bone tunnels created during the index procedure. Fractures associated with CC ligament procedures occurred at a rate of 2.46 per 100 cases. Most patients were ultimately treated surgically with open reduction and internal fixation or revision CC ligament reconstruction. Although the majority of patients with intraoperative or postoperative fractures regained full range of motion, complications such as anterior shoulder pain, AC joint asymmetry, and activity-related weakness were common sequelae resulting in physical limitations and separation from military service.
Flow characteristics and hemolytic performance of the new Breethe centrifugal blood pump in comparison with the CentriMag and Rotaflow pumps
Authors: He Ge , Zhang Jiafeng , Shah Aakash , Berk Zachary B , Han Lu , Dong Han , Griffith Bartley P , Wu Zhongjun J
Published: September 2021

Blood pumps have been increasingly used in mechanically assisted circulation for ventricular assistance and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support or during cardiopulmonary bypass for cardiac surgery. However, there have always been common complications such as thrombosis, hemolysis, bleeding, and infection associated with current blood pumps in patients. The development of more biocompatible blood pumps still prevails during the past decades. As one of those newly developed pumps, the Breethe pump is a novel extracorporeal centrifugal blood pump with a hybrid magnetic and mechanical bearing with attempt to reduce device-induced blood trauma. To characterize the hydrodynamic and hemolytic performances of this novel pump and demonstrate its superior biocompatibility, we use a combined computational and experimental approach to compare the Breethe pump with the CentriMag and Rotaflow pumps in terms of flow features and hemolysis under an operating condition relevant to ECMO support (flow: 5 L/min, pressure head: ~350 mmHg). The computational results showed that the Breethe pump has a smaller area-averaged wall shear stress (WSS), a smaller volume with a scalar shear stress (SSS) level greater than 100 Pa and a lower device-generated hemolysis index compared to the CentriMag and Rotaflow pumps. The comparison of the calculated residence times among the three pumps indicated that the Breethe pump might have better washout. The experimental data from the in vitro hemolysis testing demonstrated that the Breethe pump has the lowest normalized hemolysis index (NIH) than the CentriMag and Rotaflow pumps. It can be concluded based on both the computational and experimental data that the Breethe pump is a viable pump for clinical use and it has better biocompatibility compared to the clinically accepted pumps.
Randomised clinical trial comparing the perioperative analgesic efficacy of oral tramadol and intramuscular tramadol in cats
Authors: Bauquier Sébastien H
Published: September 2021

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of oral tramadol in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

Methods

Twenty-four female domestic cats, American Society of Anesthesiologists class I, aged 4–24 months, were included in this positive controlled, randomised, blinded clinical trial. Cats admitted for ovariohysterectomy were allocated to group oral tramadol (GOT, n = 12) or group intramuscular tramadol (GIMT, n = 12). In GOT, tramadol (6 mg/kg) was given orally 60 mins, and saline was given intramuscularly 30 mins, before induction of anaesthesia. In GIMT, granulated sugar in capsules was given orally 60 mins and tramadol (4 mg/kg) intramuscularly 30 mins before induction of anaesthesia. In both groups, dexmedetomidine (0.007 mg/kg) was given intramuscularly 30 mins before induction of anaesthesia with intravenous propofol. Anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in oxygen, and atipamezole (0.037 mg/kg) was given intramuscularly 10 mins after extubation. The UNESP-Botucatu multidimensional composite scale was used to conduct pain assessments before premedication and at 20, 60, 120, 240 and 360 mins post-extubation or until rescue analgesia was given. To compare groups, the 60 min postoperative pain scores and the highest postoperative pain scores were analysed via a two-tailed Mann–Whitney test, and the incidences of rescue analgesia were analysed via a Fisher’s exact test; P <0.05.

Results

There was no significant difference between groups for the 60 min ( P = 0.68) pain scores. The highest postoperative pain score was higher for GIMT compared with GOT ( P = 0.04). Only two cats required rescue analgesia, both from GIMT. The incidence of rescue analgesia was not significantly different between groups ( P = 0.46).

Conclusions and relevance

In the present study, preoperative administration of oral tramadol at 6 mg/kg to cats provided adequate analgesia for 6 h following ovariohysterectomy surgery.
Clinical Impact of COVID-19 Outbreak on Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Buti Sebastiano , Perrone Fabiana , Zielli Teresa , Mazzaschi Giulia , Casartelli Chiara , Leonetti Alessandro , Milanese Gianluca , Silva Mario , Eufrasia Ledda Roberta , Musolino Antonino , Pucci Francesca , Bersanelli Melissa , Tiseo Marcello
Published: September 2021

Background:

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), an acute respiratory syndrome caused by a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), has rapidly spread worldwide, significantly affecting the outcome of a highly vulnerable group such as cancer patients. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical impact of COVID-19 infection on outcome and oncologic treatment of cancer patients.

Patient and methods:

We retrospectively enrolled cancer patients with laboratory and/or radiologic confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, admitted to our center from February to April 2020. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the clinical data and univariate analyses were performed to investigate the impact of anticancer treatment modifications due to COVID-19 outbreak on the short-term overall survival (OS).

Results:

Among 61 patients enrolled, 49 (80%) were undergoing anticancer treatment and 41 (67%) had metastatic disease. Most patients were men; median age was 68 years. Median OS was 46.6 days (40% of deaths occurred within 20 days from COVID-19 diagnosis). Among 59 patients with available data on therapeutic course, 46 experienced consequences on their anticancer treatment schedule. Interruption or a starting failure of the oncologic therapy correlated with significant shorter OS. Anticancer treatment delays did not negatively affect the OS. Lymphocytopenia development after COVID was significantly associated with worst outcome.

Conclusions:

COVID-19 diagnosis in cancer patients may affect their short-term OS, especially in case of interruption/starting failure of cancer therapy. Maintaining/delaying cancer therapy seems not to influence the outcome in selected patients with recent COVID-19 diagnosis.
Infectious Risk Mitigation in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis under Disease-Modifying Therapies – the Experience of a Collaborative Neurology-Infectious Diseases Approach
Authors: Ferro Daniela , Prista-Leão Beatriz , Costa Andreia , Silva-Pinto André , Abreu Cândida , Sá Maria José
Published: September 2021

Background

Multiple sclerosis treatment has changed in the last years with the emergence of new disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). Despite a better efficacy profile, these drugs raise concerns about infectious risk, which needs to be mitigated.

Objective

To analyze the results of a systematic collaborative approach between Neurology and Infectious Diseases (ID) Departments in the management of infectious risk and complications in MS patients treated with DMT.

Methods

Retrospective collection of MS patients’ demographic and clinical data from clinical records of MS and ID outpatient clinics (2011–2017).

Results

We included 149 patients: most had evidence of previous contact with Herpesviridae, and half of them were not immune to hepatitis A and B viruses (HAV and HBV). Vaccines for HAV, HBV, and Streptococcus pneumoniae were administered in 91%, 78%, and 88% of non-immune patients, respectively. JC virus serology monitoring prevented natalizumab (NTZ) initiation or prompted its switch in 34/122 patients. Forty patients had latent tuberculosis, in which 88% were treated. Infectious events occurred in 33 patients, mostly mild urinary, respiratory, and herpes virus group infections. Only three patients required inpatient care.

Conclusion

Facing the expansion of the new DMT, we highlight the benefits of an interdisciplinary approach for safer use of the chosen treatment.
Conducting Community Based Participatory Action Research
Authors: Vivona Brian D. , Wolfgram Matthew S.
Published: September 2021

Organizations are continuously changing based on social, political, and economic conditions. HRD scholars and practitioners should think about new approaches to how they can engage with organizations and the people within them. Action research has been used as an approach in organization development for many years. While conventional action research has an emphasis on classical or traditional processes of inquiry, we present Community Based Participatory Action Research (CBPAR) as new research approach with an additional level of critical thought and engagement that is in alignment with Critical HRD. CBPAR aims to create knowledge and action, but also aims to empower members of communities or organization who are marginalized or oppressed. CBPAR offers an exciting and alterative approach to organizational research.
A Review Exploring Acculturation and Type 2 Diabetes in Spanish-Speaking Populations
Authors: Miller De Rutté Alyssia M. , Barrie Amanda
Published: September 2021

Background:

Acculturation to the United States has been previously studied in Spanish-speaking populations, but little is known about the potential relationship between acculturation and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Objective:

The purpose of this review was to explore the relationship between acculturation and T2DM in Spanish-speaking populations in the United States.

Methods:

Selected studies collected from a review of literature were analyzed by population, ethnicity, acculturation scale, and significance.

Results:

Thirty-two eligible articles showed conflicting data between the effects of acculturation on T2DM.

Conclusion:

Overall, studies yielded inconclusive results on the significance of the relationship between acculturation and diabetes in Spanish-speaking populations, which merit further investigation.
Stress urinary incontinence in females. Diagnosis and treatment modalities – past, present and the future
Authors: Anand Ajay , Khan Suhail Masood , Khan Azhar Ajaz
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) can be defined as involuntary and unintentional loss of urine through the urethra when vesical pressure exceeds the urethral sphincter pressure during instances of coughing, sneezing or physical exercise. Stress urinary incontinence is the most common form of incontinence in females with an estimated prevalence of 4.5–53% in adult women with urinary incontinence. Yet despite its distressing nature and a negative impact on quality of life, very few women present with their symptoms to a urologist.

Materials and methods:

A literature search of the MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, NLH, ClinicalTrials.gov and Google Scholar databases was done up to November 2020, using terms related to SUI, medical therapy, surgical therapy and treatment options. The search terms included female stress urinary incontinence, mid-urethral sling, tension-free vaginal tape and trans obturator tape. The search included original articles, reviews and meta-analyses.

Conclusion:

Current guidelines for the management of stress urinary incontinence propose a step-ladder pattern, based on treatment invasiveness starting from conservative therapies, then drugs followed by minimally invasive procedures and culminating in invasive surgeries. The surgical approach is to be considered only after conservative therapies fail. The recent advances in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence have brought to light newer modalities and newer technologies that can be utilized which include laser therapy, stem cell therapy, intravesical balloon and others that show a lot of promise. This paper provides an in-depth analysis and reviews the literature on the current modalities and the future prospects of female stress urinary incontinence.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable for this review article.
Effect of Antioxidant and Buffering Agent Mixture on Dentin Shear Bond Strengths of Laminate Veneer and pH Change of External Medium After Intracoronal Bleaching
Authors: Kurklu Zeliha Gonca Bek
Published: September 2021

Aim:

To investigate the effect of sodium ascorbate (SA), an antioxidant and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), a buffering agent mixture, on the shear bond strength of a luting resin to dentin, and pH changes of the extraradicular medium solution after intracoronal bleaching with hydrogen peroxide.

Materials and Methods:

In this in vitro study, 60 human maxillary central incisors were randomly assigned into six groups ( n: 10): Group 1: restored, no bleach; group 2: bleached, bonded immediately; group 3: bleached, treated with 10% SA applications before bonding; group 4: bleached, treated with calcium hydroxide applications before bonding; group 5: bleached, treated with CaOH2 and SA mixture applications before bonding; group 6: delay bonding by seven days. For bleach treatment in groups 2 to 6, intracoronal bleaching was performed with 35% hydrogen peroxide for four days. SA or CaOH2 or mixture of SA and CaOH2 were left in the access cavity for four days. Hybrid blocks, 4 mm × 4 mm wide × 2–mm thick, were luted with resin cements on dentin surface and then the specimens were subjected to shear bond strength testing. Analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc multiple comparison tests were applied ( P < .05).

Results:

G2 and G4 showed significantly low bond strength values and they were lower than the other groups ( P < .05). There were no significant differences between G1, G3, and G6 ( P > .05). The pH values had risen markedly in the groups containing calcium hydroxide (G4 and G5) after four days ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

The application of 10% SA or 10% SA and CaOH2 mixture were effective at reversing bleaching effects on bond strength. CaOH2 or CaOH2 and 10% SA mixture increased the external medium pH and were effective for alkalinization after intracoronal bleaching.