bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex Differences in Knee Extensor Neuromuscular Function in Individuals With and Without Patellofemoral Pain
Authors: Kim Sungwan , Glaviano Neal R. , Park Jihong
Published: November 2023

Background:

Impaired knee extensor neuromuscular function has been frequently observed in individuals with patellofemoral pain (PFP); however, few researchers have aimed to understand the influence of sex on knee extensor neuromuscular function in this pathological population. The authors aimed to determine whether there are differences in knee extensor neuromuscular function between sexes in individuals with and without PFP.

Hypothesis:

Women with PFP would exhibit greater deficits in knee extensor neuromuscular function than men with PFP, compared with sex-matched individuals without PFP.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional, case-control study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

A total of 110 individuals were classified into 4 groups: women with PFP (n = 25); men with PFP (n = 30); women without PFP (n = 25); and men without PFP (n = 30). Knee extensor strength (isometric peak torque [PT]), activation (central activation ratio), early, late, and total phase rate of torque development (RTD0-100, RTD100-200, and RTD20-80%), and endurance (isokinetic average PT) were assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer. Group differences were assessed using a 2-way multivariate analysis of variance (sex by PFP).

Results:

Both women and men with PFP exhibited lower knee extensor strength, activation, early, late, and total phase RTD, and endurance versus sex-matched individuals without PFP ( P < 0.05 for all comparisons). Women with PFP exhibited lower early phase (7.91 ± 2.02 versus 9.78 ± 2.43 N·m/s/kg; P < 0.01; Cohen d = 0.83), late phase (5.34 ± 1.02 versus 7.28±2.28 N·m/s/kg; P < 0.01; Cohen d = 1.37), and total phase (7.40 ± 2.57 versus 8.72 ± 2.57 N·m/s/kg; P = 0.03; Cohen d = 0.51) RTD than men with PFP.

Conclusion:

Compared with sex-matched pain-free individuals, women with PFP displayed lower RTD than men with PFP. Clinicians should note that among individuals with PFP, women are more likely to experience a greater impairment in their knee extensor torque-generating capacity than men.

Clinical Relevance:

Additional treatment strategies that effectively improve the ability to rapidly generate torque should be developed and implemented, especially when treating women with PFP.
Deep learning-based fundus image analysis for cardiovascular disease: a review
Authors: Chikumba Symon , Hu Yuqian , Luo Jing
Published: November 2023

It is well established that the retina provides insights beyond the eye. Through observation of retinal microvascular changes, studies have shown that the retina contains information related to cardiovascular disease. Despite the tremendous efforts toward reducing the effects of cardiovascular diseases, they remain a global challenge and a significant public health concern. Conventionally, predicting the risk of cardiovascular disease involves the assessment of preclinical features, risk factors, or biomarkers. However, they are associated with cost implications, and tests to acquire predictive parameters are invasive. Artificial intelligence systems, particularly deep learning (DL) methods applied to fundus images have been generating significant interest as an adjunct assessment tool with the potential of enhancing efforts to prevent cardiovascular disease mortality. Risk factors such as age, gender, smoking status, hypertension, and diabetes can be predicted from fundus images using DL applications with comparable performance to human beings. A clinical change to incorporate DL systems for the analysis of fundus images as an equally good test over more expensive and invasive procedures may require conducting prospective clinical trials to mitigate all the possible ethical challenges and medicolegal implications. This review presents current evidence regarding the use of DL applications on fundus images to predict cardiovascular disease.
Bispecific antibody treatment of multiple myeloma: latest updates from the 2022 ASH annual meeting
Authors: Yin Xuejiao , Liu Yi , Sun Jianai , Tong Hongyan , Meng Haitao , You Liangshun
Published: November 2023

Background:

Effective novel therapies for multiple myeloma (MM) patients who are unresponsive to conventional treatments (triple-class refractory) are an urgent need. Bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) offer a promising new approach to stimulate T cells and induce tumor cell death by targeting molecules on the surface of malignant plasma cells and CD3 on the surface of T cells.

Objectives:

Addressing the issue of improving the prognosis of triple-class refractory MM patients has become a significant clinical challenge.

Design:

This is a brief report.

Methods:

This article summarizes the latest updates of BsAbs treatment of MM from the 2022 ASH annual meeting.

Results:

BsAbs that target B-cell maturation antigen and G protein-coupled receptor family C group 5 memberD have demonstrated remarkable clinical activity and favorable safety profiles. Many potential targets for myeloma cells are currently undergoing phase I/II clinical trials, and these off-the-shelf bispecific molecules are likely to become a critical part of the MM treatment landscape.

Conclusion:

This article provides an overview of the latest advances in BsAbs immunotherapy for refractory and relapsed MM and highlights significant findings from the 2022 ASH annual meeting.
Optimizing treatment for older adults with depression
Authors: Srifuengfung Maytinee , Pennington Bethany R. Tellor , Lenze Eric J.
Published: November 2023

This review presents a comprehensive guide for optimizing medication management in older adults with depression within an outpatient setting. Medication optimization involves tailoring the antidepressant strategy to the individual, ensuring the administration of appropriate medications at optimal dosages. In the case of older adults, this process necessitates not only adjusting or changing antidepressants but also addressing the concurrent use of inappropriate medications, many of which have cognitive side effects. This review outlines various strategies for medication optimization in late-life depression: (1) Utilizing the full dose range of a medication to maximize therapeutic benefits and strive for remission. (2) Transitioning to alternative classes (such as a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor [SNRI], bupropion, or mirtazapine) when first-line treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRIs] proves inadequate. (3) Exploring augmentation strategies like aripiprazole for treatment-resistant depression. (4) Implementing measurement-based care to help adjust treatment. (5) Sustaining an effective antidepressant strategy for at least 1 year following depression remission, with longer durations for recurrent episodes or severe presentations. (6) Safely discontinuing anticholinergic medications and benzodiazepines by employing a tapering method when necessary, coupled with counseling about the benefits of stopping them. Additionally, this article explores favorable medications for depression, as well as alternatives for managing anxiety, insomnia, allergy, overactive bladder, psychosis, and muscle spasm in order to avoid potent anticholinergics and benzodiazepines.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward blood donation in the Gaza Strip, Palestine
Authors: El Bilbeisi Abdel Hamid , Abuzerr Samer , El Afifi Amany
Published: November 2023

Aims:

Both developing and developed countries are facing difficulties in finding regular donors. In areas that are exposed to frequent conflicts and wars, such as the Gaza Strip, there is a need for a continuous blood supply. This study aims to determine the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward blood donation in the Gaza Strip, Palestine.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022, in which 1506 participants were randomly selected from different governorates in the Gaza Strip. A structured and valid questionnaire was employed to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward blood donation. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 28. The chi-square test was used to measure the significance of associations.

Results:

A total of 1506 individuals living in the Gaza Strip participated. The total mean score of the overall knowledge and positive attitudes toward blood donation was 55.1% and 67.1%, respectively. Furthermore, 1236 (82.1%) of the study participants never donated blood. Of them, 260 (21.0%) demonstrated that they do not have information on when, where, and how to donate; 228 (18.4%) thought that they were not fit to donate; 187 (15.1%) demonstrated that they did not have time to donate; 143 (11.6%) feared health problems, and 132 (10.7%) feared anemia. On the contrary, 99 (36.7%) donated blood when a friend or relative needed blood, and 171 (63.3%) were voluntary donations. Statistically, a significant association was found between knowledge, attitudes, practices, and sociodemographic variables ( p < 0.05 for all).

Discussion:

The study findings indicated poor donation habits despite positive attitudes toward blood donation in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. This research emphasizes the need to recognize and correct the knowledge gap that results in unfavorable behaviors against blood donation.
Airway management in a rare case of congenital palate teratoma with a cleft palate: A case report
Authors: Regaieg Chiraz , Jarraya Anouar , Ammar Saloua , Kallel Souha , Maaloul Imen , Karray Fathi , Mhiri Riadh , Kolsi Kamel , Ben thabet Afef , Hmida Nedia
Published: November 2023

Airway management in neonates is difficult because of the risk of rapid hypoxia. It presents a challenge even for an experienced anesthesiologist. Oral tumors in neonates can obstruct the airway or feeding problems in the newborn. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice but these tumors can seriously worsen the conditions of intubation. To surmount these difficulties, a particular multidisciplinary approach and special precautions are needed. We describe the airway management and precautions taken in the anesthesia for surgical removal of a case of large congenital palate teratoma associated with a wide cleft palate in a 25-day-old girl. Impossible intubation was predicted on magnetic resonance imaging. The difficult airway management cart as well as an otorhinolaryngologist skilled in performing emergency tracheostomies in neonates were available. The patient was intubated by conventional laryngoscopy under sevoflurane inhalation anesthesia. The tumor was successfully resected. This case poses a challenge for managing the airway because of the possibility of obstruction of the airway and the difficulty of the airway that radiological exams have allowed us. So, a multidisciplinary team effort is needed for successful neonatal airway management.
Assessing the Validity of Electronic Medical Records for Identifying High Antibiotic Prescribers in Primary Care
Authors: McIsaac Warren J. , Kukan Sahana
Published: November 2023

Objectives:

Electronic medical record (EMR) prescription data may identify high antibiotic prescribers in primary care. However, practitioners doubt that population differences between providers and delayed antibiotic prescriptions are adequately accounted for in EMR-derived prescription rates. This study assessed the validity of using EMR prescription data to produce antibiotic prescription rates, accounting for these factors.

Methods:

The study was a secondary analysis of antimicrobial prescriptions collected from 4 primary care clinics from 2015 to 2017. For adults with selected respiratory and urinary infections, EMR diagnostic codes, prescription data, clinical diagnoses and demographics were abstracted. Overall and delayed prescription rates were produced for EMR diagnostic codes, clinical diagnoses, by clinic, and types of infection. Direct standardization was used to adjust for case mix differences by clinic. High antibiotic prescribers, above the 75th percentile for prescriptions, were compared with low antibiotic prescribers.

Results:

Of 3108 EMR visits, there were 2577 (85.4%) eligible visits with a clinical diagnosis and prescription information. Overall antibiotic prescription rates were similar utilizing EMR records (31.6%) or clinical diagnoses (32.6%, P = .40). When delayed prescriptions were removed, prescribing rates were lower (22.4%, P < .01). EMR data overestimated prescribing rates for conditions where antibiotics are usually not indicated (17.7% EMR vs 7.6% clinical diagnoses, P < .001). High antibiotic prescribers saw more cases where antibiotics are usually indicated (23.4%) compared to low prescribers (16.8%; P = .001).

Conclusions:

Electronic medical record prescribing rates are similar to those using clinical diagnoses overall, but overestimate prescribing by clinicians for conditions usually not needing antibiotics. EMR prescription rates do not account for delayed antibiotic prescriptions or differences in infection case-mix.
Impact of R&D on Firm Performance: Do Ownership Structure and Product Market Competition Matter?
Authors: Arif Khan Muhammad , Bin Meng , Wang Chunlin , Bilal Hazrat , Ali Khan Arshad , Ullah Irfan , Iqbal Amjad , Rahman Mohib Ur
Published: November 2023

This study investigates how R&D affects firm performance and examines whether and how state ownership moderates the R&D–firm performance nexus. Moreover, this study investigates whether and how product market competition moderates the association between R&D and performance across the diﬀerent natures of firms. Employing a sample of Chinese listed firms from 2000 to 2020, the study performs estimations by applying pooled ordinary least squares regressions, fixed-effect panel regressions, and a two-step system GMM model to account for endogeneity problems. The findings reveal that firm performance reduces as R&D expenses rise, with the impact being less pronounced for state-owned enterprises. The adverse impact of R&D on corporate performance is also alleviated under intense competition. The results have important implications for policymakers, investors, and corporations seeking to understand how R&D spending influences corporate performance in competitive industries.

JEL classification: L25, G32, O3
The Perspective of Long-Term and Short-Term Incentives on the Business Environment, Executive Incentive Contracts, and Enterprise Innovation
Authors: Zhu Zhaozhen , Guo Yijia , Jiang Zhao , Chen Xiaojun
Published: November 2023

Innovation is the first driving force leading economic development, and small and medium-sized enterprises have strategic significance in stimulating innovation activity and promoting economic growth. Few studies concentrating on small and medium-sized businesses examine the connection between executive incentive contracts and business innovation. Therefore, we use them as the research object in this study. We empirically analyze the relationship between executive incentive contracts and enterprise innovation using the research sample of small and medium-sized board-listed companies from 2009 to 2020, focusing on long-term equity and short-term pay incentives. The study also analyzes if the corporate environment will impact a specific motivational system. The results show that improving executive shareholding and pay level can significantly promote enterprise innovation. The areas with better business environments mean practical innovation. Otherwise, organizational equity and pay incentives positively affect innovation in non-state-owned enterprises. This effect might increase the business environment compared to state-owned enterprises. Meanwhile, information transparency is improved by equity incentives and pay incentives, and the implementation intensity of equity incentives reduces the degree of financialization. By demonstrating how CEO equity and pay incentives affect corporate innovation, this study adds to the body of literature in that field. It also offers empirical evidence to assist corporations in creating the most corporate equality and pay incentives. Future studies should continue examining the impact of non-material incentives on enterprise innovation and the relationship between equity and pay incentives.
Study of Urban Heat Island Effect in Hangzhou Metropolitan Area Based on SW-TES Algorithm and Image Dichotomous Model
Authors: Shang Kailin , Xu Linfeng , Liu Xuan , Yin Zhengtong , Liu Zhixin , Li Xiaolu , Yin Lirong , Zheng Wenfeng
Published: November 2023

In recent years, with economic development, urbanization has been accelerating. In the past 100 years, the global average temperature has increased by 0.5°C, and according to the predictions of most global climate models, the temperature will continue to increase by 1.5°C to 3.0°C in the next 100 years. Under the influence of global warming, the urban heat island effect problem is becoming more and more serious, bringing much harm. Studying the thermal effect and its influencing factors is of great significance for sustainable urban development. In this study, the seasonal and interannual surface temperature changes of the study area are inverted based on the SW-TES algorithm, and the LST inversion of the algorithm is simply verified. At the same time, a cell dichotomous model was established to explore the influencing factors of the urban heat island effect and the influence of different land use types and normalized vegetation indices in the Hangzhou metropolitan area was analyzed. The results showed that the overall heating trend of the study area showed a heating trend, the expansion rate of regional construction land was relatively fast, and the scale of urban land was increasing. Based on the results of surface temperature changes of areas with different land types, we obtained the temperature trends of each land type [from 2005 to 2018] and found that there was a negative correlation between surface temperature and normalized vegetation index. This study provides a theoretical basis to evaluate the urban heat island effect and analyze factors that impact it and would promote sustainable urban development.
Dynamic Fluctuation Measurement and Factor Decomposition of China’s Export Growth to Japan and South Korea in the Context of COVID-19
Authors: Xiuqin Zhang , Feifei Xing , Junhui Guo , Yasir Khan
Published: November 2023

In the context of the COVID-19, it is very significant to explore the dynamic fluctuation of China’s export growth to the international market and examine the causes of this fluctuation in a multi-dimensional way. The dynamic fluctuation level is measured in the short and medium-long cycle respectively based on monthly data. Factor decomposition of the dynamic fluctuation is made from the growth effect, the structure effect and the competitiveness effect by the improved CMS model, which results show that the growth effect has decreased first and then increased; The structure effects include market structure effects and commodity structure effects, and the former effect basically fluctuates around the X-axis while there is a negative commodity structure effect; There are different specific competitiveness effects on 21 categories of goods. China should rely on the RCEP agreement to strengthen and stabilize trade cooperation other countries, and strengthen its core position in the industry chain and value chain in the Asia Pacific region. The current paper creatively introduce the trade expansion margin including the ternary margin and product structure into the CMS model, explaining the internal relationship between the trade expansion margin analysis at the product- market level and the CMS analysis at the overall level; meanwhile, this paper analyses the dynamic fluctuation structure of China’s export growth to Japan and South Korea through a CMS factor decomposition from the perspective of technological structure and factor ladder, and studies the source and dynamic distribution evolution of this growth pattern.
Overparenting, Loneliness, and Social Anxiety in Emerging Adulthood: The Mediating Role of Emotion Regulation
Authors: Jiao Chengfei , Cui Ming , Fincham Frank D.
Published: November 2023

Emerging adults frequently report feelings of loneliness and social anxiety owing to changes in their social environment, instabilities, and transitions. One of the risk factors that could contribute to emerging adults’ social well-being is overparenting. We examined the association between overparenting, loneliness, and social anxiety among emerging adults and investigated the potential mediating role of emotion regulation as a mechanism that might account for the association. Overparenting was operationalized as a domain-specific construct comprising various aspects of emerging adults’ lives (i.e., academic, health, financial, and relational). College students ( N = 287) participated in a short-term longitudinal study and responded to self-reported measures on overparenting, emotion regulation, loneliness, social anxiety, and demographics. Findings from structural equation modeling suggested that relational overparenting was related to higher levels of loneliness and social anxiety among emerging adults and that this association was mediated by emotion regulation. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Identity Development of Emerging Adults Revealing Negative Experiences of Their Parents
Authors: Liu Yanping , Zhu Wenyi
Published: November 2023

This qualitative investigation explored the identity development of emerging adults who revealed their parents’ negative experiences. Participants were 169 Chinese college students ( M = 19.83, SD = 1.19, 76.92% women) from southwest China. Thematic analysis of the data which were collected in December 2022 suggests that the participants revealed various parental negative experiences including hardships and poverty, failure and regrets, as well as family scandals and interpersonal conflicts. The participants strived to make meaning out of such experiences and looked into the future to make a difference based on their meaning-making capacities. Such a process leads to both personal identity exploration and family identity negotiation which become foundations for their future family narratives. We created a model of personal and family identity development to capture the process of identity development in revealing parental negative experiences. The findings of this study contribute to the scholarship on family narratives and identity development.
Expression and Clinical Significance of microRNA-138-5p and TGF-β3 in Peripheral Blood of Patients With Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Cheng Yonghong , Zhang Zhidong
Published: November 2023

Study design

Clinical study.

Objective

Our work was aimed at exploring the expression and clinical significance of microRNA-138-5p (miR-138-5p) and Transforming Growth Factor-beta 3 (TGF-β3) in peripheral blood of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Methods

Forty-seven patients with AS were selected as the AS group, and the staging of the enrolled AS patients was based on the BASDAI score: <4 points were classified as the stable stage (stable group) and ≥4 points were classified as the active stage (active group). Forty-seven cases were selected from the same period of healthy physical examination in our hospital as the control group. miR-138-5p and TGF-β3 levels and disease activity factors in peripheral blood were measured in all patients.

Results

Compared to healthy subjects, reduced miR-138-5p levels and increased TGF-β3 levels were found in AS patient. Even more, level of miR-138-5p was decreased and level of TGF-β3 was found to be increased in active disease stage of AS in comparison to inactive disease. Correlation analysis disclosed that miR-138-5p expression in peripheral blood of AS patients was negatively correlated with TGF-β3, HLA-B27, ESR, CRP, and BASDAI; serum TGF-β3 was positively correlated with HLA-B27, ESR, CRP, and BASDAI. The ROC curve analysis disclosed that miR-138-5p and TGF-β3 had certain diagnostic value for AS, and the combined detection could improve the clinical diagnostic capability of this disease.

Conclusion

miR-138-5p and TGF-β3 in peripheral blood of AS patients are potential biological markers for the diagnosis of AS and are expected to be new clinical diagnostic indicators.
Modeling risk factors of degree of severity of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection in inpatient patients at Dr. M. Djamil Padang
Authors: Masrizal  , Putri Ade Suzana Eka , Rahmatillah Nabila Putri , Novirsa Randy , Alfarezi Muhammad
Published: November 2023

Background:

RSUP Dr. M. Djamil was one of the COVID referral hospitals that treats patients with degrees of severity ranging from mild to critical. The high prevalence of COVID-19 differs from the severity of which it is necessary to know the risk factors as a preventive measure to minimize the higher risk. This study aims to determine the factors associated with the severity of COVID-19 in inpatients at Dr. M. Djamil Hospital, Padang, Indonesia.

Design and methods:

A quantitative study with a cross-sectional design was conducted by reviewing the medical record data of COVID-19 inpatients from March 2020 to February 2021. Sampling using a simple random sampling technique with a total of 95 patients. The Prevalence Odds Ratio (POR) is a statistical measure used in epidemiology and medical research to assess the association between an exposure or risk factor and a particular outcome in a cross-sectional study.

Results:

Based on research, there are 41 (43.2%) severe patients. There is a relationship between age with p-value 0.004 (POR 4.5; 95% CI; 1.48–12.1), cardiovascular disease with p-value 0.003 (POR 5.9; 95% CI 1.7–21.4), and respiratory disease with p-value 0.001 (POR 6.6; 95% CI; 2.1–20.8) against COVID-19 infection. Diabetes Mellitus is the confounding variable. Respiratory disease is the dominant factor associated with the severity of COVID-19. Respiratory disease has 6.6 POR or Prevalence Odds Ratio values which means that COVID-19 patients with respiratory disease 6.6 more severe than those who has not respiratory disease history.

Conclusions:

Age, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases are associated with the severity of COVID-19 infection in patients at Dr. M. Djamil Hospital, Padang, Indonesia. It is highly recommended to increase health promotion regarding risk factors for the severity of COVID-19 to the community to avoid a more severe outcome.
The impacts of electronic cigarette health warning labels on use intentions and perceptions: A cross-sectional study of US and Israeli adults who use tobacco
Authors: Duan Zongshuan , Levine Hagai , Bar-Zeev Yael , Cui Yuxian , LoParco Cassidy R , Wang Yan , Abroms Lorien C , Khayat Amal , Berg Carla J
Published: November 2023

Background:

Health warning labels (HWLs) are evidence-based tobacco control strategies; however, their application to e-cigarettes and related impacts (e.g. on perceived risk), including across countries with different regulations, are understudied.

Design and Methods:

Using 2021 survey data from 927 US and Israeli adults reporting past-month tobacco use, multivariate analyses examined: (1) sociodemographics in relation to self-reported impact of e-cigarette HWLs (i.e. more concerned about e-cigarette use, reassured, no effect) among those who noticed e-cigarette HWLs (multinomial regressions); and (2) HWL impacts in relation to use intentions and perceived addictiveness and harm (linear regressions).

Results:

Among those who noticed HWLs ( n = 835, 90.1%), 34.1% reported HWLs resulted in greater concern about e-cigarette use, 45.5% no effect, and 20.4% reassurance. Factors associated with greater concern (vs no effect) included e-cigarette non-use (vs use; aOR = 1.69, 95% CI:1.22, 2.38), US (vs Israel) resident (aOR = 1.65, 95% CI:1.16, 2.34), age 18–25 (vs 36–45; aOR = 1.72, 95% CI:1.11, 2.67), and more education (aOR = 1.85, 95% CI:1.30, 2.63). Factors associated with being reassured (vs no effect) included use of cigarettes (aOR = 1.71, 95% CI:1.06, 2.75), e-cigarettes (aOR = 2.64, 95% CI:1.77, 3.94), and other tobacco (aOR = 2.11, 95% CI:1.39, 3.21), and Israeli resident (aOR = 2.33, 95% CI:1.47, 3.70). Not noticing HWLs (vs no effect) correlated with lower intentions (β = −0.44, 95% CI:−0.87, −0.01), perceived addictiveness (β = −0.61, 95% CI:−1.05, −0.18), and harm (β = −0.56, 95% CI:−0.95, −0.18); reassurance correlated with greater use intentions (β = 0.48, 95% CI:0.12, 0.83); and greater concern was unassociated with use intentions or perceived risk.

Conclusion:

Effects of differing e-cigarette HWLs in distinct subpopulations warrant research. Despite being noticed, they may have no effect or encourage e-cigarette use.
Polycaprolactone-based scaffolds for guided tissue regeneration in periodontal therapy: A systematic review
Authors: Antunovic Florencia , Tolosa Felipe , Klein Catherine , Ocaranza René
Published: November 2023

Background:

Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a highly recognized synthetic polymer for its biocompatibility, ease of fabrication and mechanical strength in bone tissue engineering. Its applications have extended broadly, including regeneration of oral and maxillofacial lost tissues. Its usefulness has brought attention of researchers to regenerate periodontal lost tissues, including alveolar bone, periodontal ligament and cementum. The aim of this systematic review was to obtain an updated analysis of the contribution of PCL-based scaffolds in the alveolar bone regeneration process.

Methods:

This review adheres to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for systematic reviews. A computerized search of the PubMed, EBSCO, Scielo and Web of Science databases was performed, restricting literature search to published studies in English or Spanish between January 2002 and March 2023. Database search returned 248 studies which were screened based on title, author names and publication dates.

Results:

Data from 17 studies were reviewed and tabulated. All studies combined PCL with other biomaterials (such as Alginate, hydroxyapatite, bioactive glass, poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)), growth factors (BMP-2, rhCEMP1), and/or mesenchymal stromal cells (adipose-derived, bone marrow, periodontal ligament or gingiva mesenchymal stromal cells). PCL scaffolds showed higher cell viability and osteoinductive potential when combined with bioactive agents. Complementary, its degradation rates were affected by the addition or exposure to specific substances, such as: Dopamine, Cerium Oxide, PLGA and hydrogen peroxide.

Conclusions:

PCL is an effective biomaterial for alveolar bone regeneration in periodontally affected teeth. It could be part of a new generation of biomaterials with improved regenerative potential.
The Rhetorical Function of Corporate DEI Reports
Authors: Walwema Josephine , Bay Jennifer
Published: November 2023

We analyze diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) reports from the top 20 Fortune 500 companies to particularly examine how these companies use visual design and representation to present an aspirational future that valorizes their current DEI efforts. We contend that if large corporations have the ability to affect outcomes among employees, stakeholders, and citizens, then educators have an obligation to prepare students to be well positioned to make change and to participate in conversations about change.
German Preservice Teachers’ Stances on Criteria for Discussing Controversial Issues in the Classroom
Authors: Kindlinger Marcus , Hahn-Laudenberg Katrin
Published: November 2023

In times of increasing political polarization, the question of how teachers deal with controversial issues in their classrooms becomes more important than ever. Rejection, avoidance, or an overtly neutral stance on different positions on these issues can be detrimental to democratic education. In this study, we examine preservice teachers’ stances on different criteria for discussing controversial issues in their prospective classrooms and propose a specification of the approach of balancing different views on controversial issues that we call “committed balancing”: a form of balancing that avoids according equal weight or importance to fundamentally unequal positions. To examine different stances that preservice teachers hold on controversy, we used a convenience sample of 162 German preservice teachers to develop the foundation for a standardized instrument that can be used to detect different ideas about the limits to controversial classroom discussions. We analyzed interviews with a subset of respondents to further examine their ideas about controversial issues in their future classroom practice. We found evidence of different strategies of (not) dealing with controversial issues as well as an emerging strategy of committed balancing. Our findings have practical implications for teachers and teacher educators in addressing controversial topics in the classroom. We suggest that “committed balancing” should be considered as a guide for how to approach these issues.
Heart-Stroke Team: A multidisciplinary assessment of patent foramen ovale-associated stroke
Authors: Immens Maikel HM , van den Hoeven Vincent , van Lith Theresa J , Duijnhouwer Toon D , ten Cate Tim JF , de Leeuw Frank-Erik
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure prevents recurrent ischemic stroke in selected patients with a cryptogenic stroke. Trial results tend to be generalized to daily practice, often extending original trial inclusion criteria. This may result in unnecessary closure without benefit, but with risk of complications. We therefore introduced a standardized and structured evaluation by an interdisciplinary Heart-Stroke Team (HST). Our aim was to investigate the proportion of actual PFO closure of all referred patients with a cryptogenic stroke, after evaluation by the HST.

Patients and methods:

We conducted a single-center, retrospective cohort study. Patients with an assumed cryptogenic ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) and a PFO who were referred for PFO closure were analyzed. As part of the HST approach, all patients underwent a standardized work-up, first to demonstrate the ischemic event on neuroimaging, second to evaluate all potential causes of stroke and finally, to assess the possible relation between the PFO and stroke. Outcome was the proportion of patients treated with PFO closure after referral.

Results:

A total of 195 patients were included. In 124 patients (64%) PFO closure was advised. Fourty-two (22%) patients had a clear alternative cause of stroke and in 13 (7%) patients the initial stroke diagnosis could not be confirmed.

Conclusion:

After careful analysis of patients referred for PFO closure a relationship between the PFO and stroke could not be demonstrated in 32% of referrals, and 3% preferred best medical treatment over percutaneous closure. This stresses the need for a complete neurovascular work-up and multidisciplinary assessment.
Doing ethics, and the possible
Authors: Copeland Samantha
Published: November 2023

This paper begins with the paradox of teaching ethics, that we teach ethical theory in the form of general rules whereas the practice of ethics occurs in dynamic and uncertain contexts. I argue, utilizing literature that highlights the role of anticipation and relationships in ethical practice, that the goal of ethics is not consensus or agreement about what rule to follow, in a particular situation nor in general. That is, doing ethics is not about rule-making or decision-making; rather, this paper provides arguments from philosophical ethics as well as ethics education for understanding ethical practice as exploring the possible together. Drawing from these diverse perspectives, the paper contributes to discussions about the nature of ethics itself and how we should theorize about it. Finally, conclusions related to how an ethics of the possible could be taught and why it should be are offered.
Possibility Spaces: An invitation to foster transformative experiences of the possible
Authors: Glăveanu Vlad
Published: November 2023

This article focuses on the applied side of Possibility Studies and the methodologies that could be used to cultivate possibility thinking and empower participants to become agents within the field of the possible. It proposes Possibility Spaces as collaborative pop-up interventions in which theories, methods and practices from across disciplines co-evolve in order to engage with and to serve participants from a wide range of communities around the world. The article starts by outlining a conceptual framework for Possible Action (P-ACT), grounded in the relation between sense of the possible, personal agency and action, which is the theoretical basis for methodologies like PROMPT (Positioning / Repositioning / Original Repositioning / Making / Possibilities Transformed), discussed in great detail. Offered as an example of how to run Possibility Spaces, PROMPT is one among other action-research tools envisioned in the paper. A future of collaboration is ultimately argued for, one in which researchers and practitioners within Possibility Studies work together with local communities to develop more methodologies that foster transformative experiences of the possible – experiences grounded in the continuous interplay between enhanced sense of the possible, personal agency, and the enactment of new possibilities.
Tigecycline and Hypoglycemia, When and How?
Authors: Hakeam Hakeam A. , Sarkhi Khadija A. , Iansavichene Alla
Published: November 2023

Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of hypoglycemia that develop with tigecycline therapy and to review and summarize the current evidence of this uncommonly occurring metabolic adverse effect of tigecycline therapy. Underlying risk factors and potential mechanisms are also discussed. Data source: A 3-phase literature search was performed. In phase 1, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) Library, MEDLINE, and Embase electronic databases were searched for hypoglycemia and tigecycline, published from inception until August 2023. In phase 2, MEDLINE was searched for tigecycline randomized controlled trials and results were manually screened for hypoglycemia. In phase 3, the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System public dashboard was searched for reports on tigecycline and hypoglycemia from June 2005 until July 2023. Study selection and data extraction: Relevant English-language citations and those conducted in humans were considered. Relevance to patient care and clinical practice: Hypoglycemia of various causes is an independent mortality risk. This review raises awareness among clinicians about the possibility of hypoglycemia with tigecycline therapy. Conclusion: Data on tigecycline-related hypoglycemia are scarce. Hypoglycemia may occur at any time during tigecycline therapy and can be severe and persist for days after tigecycline cessation. Renal dysfunction or renal replacement therapy may predispose to severe hypoglycemia during tigecycline therapy. Tigecycline-related hypoglycemia may develop in patients with or without diabetes mellitus and appears independent of insulin or antidiabetic agents. Intravenous dextrose showed efficacy in the restoration of euglycemia. Studies are needed to determine whether tigecycline-related hypoglycemia is iatrogenic or spontaneous.
Evaluation of the anti-infective potential of the seed endophytic fungi of Corchorus olitorius through metabolomics and molecular docking approach
Authors: Ahmed Arwa Mortada , Ibrahim Ayman M. , Yahia Ramadan , Shady Nourhan Hisham , Mahmoud Basma Khalaf , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan , Fouad Mostafa A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Endophytic fungi are very rich sources of natural antibacterial and antifungal compounds. The main aim of this study is to isolate the fungal endophytes from the medicinal plant Corchorus olitorius seeds (F. Malvaceae), followed by antimicrobial screening against various bacterial and fungal strains.

Results

Seven endophytic fungal strains belonging to different three genera were isolated, including Penicillium, Fusarium, and Aspergillus. The seven isolated endophytic strains revealed selective noticeable activity against Escherichia coli (ATCC25922) with varied IC50s ranging from 1.19 to 10 µg /mL, in which Aspergillus sp. (Ar 6) exhibited the strongest potency against E. coli (ATCC 25,922) and candida albicans (ATCC 10,231) with IC50s 1.19 and 15 µg /mL, respectively. Therefore, the chemical profiling of Aspergillus sp. (Ar 6) crude extract was performed using LC-HR-ESI-MS and led to the dereplication of sixteen compounds of various classes (1–16). In-silico analysis of the dereplicated metabolites led to highlighting the compounds responsible for the antimicrobial activity of Aspergillus sp. extract. Moreover, molecular docking showed the potential targets of the metabolites; Astellatol (5), Aspergillipeptide A (10), and Emericellamide C (14) against E. coli and C. albicans.

Conclusion

These results will expand the knowledge of endophytes and provide us with new approaches to face the global antibiotic resistance problem and the future production of undiscovered compounds different from the antibiotics classes.
Enhancing cold and drought tolerance in cotton: a protective role of SikCOR413PM1
Authors: Wang Mei , Wang Lepeng , Yu Xiangxue , Zhao Jingyi , Tian Zhijia , Liu Xiaohong , Wang Guoping , Zhang Li , Guo Xinyong
Published: November 2023

The present study explored the potential role of cold-regulated plasma membrane protein COR413PM1 isolated from Saussurea involucrata (Matsum. & Koidz)(SikCOR413PM1), in enhancing cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) tolerance to cold and drought stresses through transgenic methods. Under cold and drought stresses, the survival rate and the fresh and dry weights of the SikCOR413PM1-overexpressing lines were higher than those of the wild-type plants, and the degree of leaf withering was much lower. Besides, overexpressing SikCOR413PM1 overexpression increased the relative water content, reduced malondialdehyde content and relative conductivity, and elevated proline and soluble sugar levels in cotton seedlings. These findings suggest that SikCOR413PM1 minimizes cell membrane damage and boosts plant stability under challenging conditions. Additionally, overexpression of this gene upregulated antioxidant enzyme-related genes in cotton seedlings, resulting in enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, lowered peroxide content, and reduced oxidative stress. SikCOR413PM1 overexpression also modulated the expression of stress-related genes (GhDREB1A, GhDREB1B, GhDREB1C, GhERF2, GhNAC3, and GhRD22). In field trials, the transgenic cotton plants overexpressing SikCOR413PM1 displayed high yields and increased environmental tolerance. Our study thus demonstrates the role of SikCOR413PM1 in regulating stress-related genes, osmotic adjustment factors, and peroxide content while preserving cell membrane stability and improving cold and drought tolerance in cotton.
Combined application of hot water treatment and eucalyptus leaf extract postpones seneṣcence in harvested green chilies by conserving their antioxidants: a sustainable approach
Authors: Haider Muhammad Wasim , Nafees Muhammad , Iqbal Rashid , Ali Sajid , Asad Habat Ullah , Azeem Farrukh , Arslan Muhammad , Rahman Muhammad Habib Ur , Gaafar Abdel-Rhman Z. , Elshikh Mohamed S.
Published: November 2023

Background

Green chili is the predominant vegetable in tropical and subtropical regions with high economic value. However, after harvest, it exhibits vigorous metabolic activities due to the high moisture level, leading to a reduction in bioactive compounds and hence reduced shelf life and nutritional quality. Low temperature storage results in the onset of chilling injury symptoms. Therefore, developing techniques to increase the shelf life of green chilies and safeguard their nutritional value has become a serious concern for researchers. In this regard, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the impact of the alone or combined application of hot water treatment (HWT) (45 °C for 15 min) and eucalyptus leaf extract (ELE) (30%) on 'Golden Hot' chilies in comparison to the control. After treatment, chilies were stored at 20 ± 1.5 °C for 20 days.

Results

HWT + ELE-treated chilies had a significant reduction in fruit weight loss (14.6%), fungal decay index (35%), red chili percentage (41.2%), soluble solid content (42.9%), ripening index (48.9%), and reactive oxygen species production like H2O2 (55.1%) and O−2 (46.5%) during shelf in comparison to control, followed by the alone application of HWT and ELE. Furthermore, the combined use of HWT and ELE effectively improved the antioxidative properties of stored chilies including DPPH radical scavenging activities (54.6%), ascorbic acid content (28.4%), phenolic content (31.8%), as well as the enzyme activities of POD (103%), CAT (128%), SOD (26.5%), and APX (43.8%) in comparison to the control. Additionally, the green chilies underwent HWT + ELE treatment also exhibited higher chlorophyll levels (100%) and general appearance (79.6%) with reduced anthocyanin content (40.8%) and wrinkling (43%), leading to a higher marketable fruit (41.3%) than the control.

Conclusion

The pre-storage application of HWT and ELE could be used as an antimicrobial, non-chemical, non-toxic, and eco-friendly treatment for preserving the postharvest quality of green chilies at ambient temperature (20 ± 1.5 °C).
Association between pain and cognitive and daily functional impairment in older institutional residents: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wu Sheng-Hua , Lin Chung-Fen , Lu I-Cheng , Yeh Ming-Sung , Hsu Chin-Cheng , Yang Yuan-Han
Published: November 2023

Background

Pain is often neglected in disabled older population, especially in Taiwan where the population of institutional residents is rapidly growing. Our study aimed to investigate pain prevalence and associated factors among institutional residents to improve pain assessment and management.

Methods

This nationwide study recruited 5,746 institutional residents in Taiwan between July 2019 and February 2020. Patient self-report was considered the most valid and reliable indicator of pain. A 5-point verbal rating scale was used to measure pain intensity, with a score ranging from 2 to 5 indicating the presence of pain. Associated factors with pain, including comorbidities, functional dependence, and quality of life, were also assessed.

Results

The mean age of the residents was 77.1 ± 13.4 years, with 63.1% of them aged over 75 years. Overall, 40.3% of the residents reported pain, of whom 51.2% had moderate to severe pain. Pain was more common in residents with comorbidities and significantly impacted emotions and behavior problems, and the mean EQ5D score, which is a measure of health-related quality of life (p < .001). Interestingly, pain was only related to instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and not activities of daily living (ADL). On the other hand, dementia was significantly negatively associated with pain (p < .001), with an estimated odds of 0.63 times (95% CI: 0.53–0.75) for the presence of pain when compared to residents who did not have dementia.

Conclusions

Unmanaged pain is common among institutional residents and is associated with comorbidities, IADL, emotional/behavioral problems, and health-related quality of life. Older residents may have lower odds of reporting pain due to difficulty communicating their pain, even through the use of a simple 5-point verbal rating scale. Therefore, more attention and effort should be directed towards improving pain evaluation in this vulnerable population .