bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superresolution Reconstruction Algorithm of Ultrasonic Logging Images Based on High-Frequency Enhancement
Authors: Qiu Ao , Shi Yibing , Luo Xinyi , Li Zhipeng , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2022

High-resolution logging images with glaring detail information are useful for analysing geological features in the field of ultrasonic logging. The resolution of logging images is, however, severely constrained by the complexity of the borehole and the frequency restriction of the ultrasonic transducer. In order to improve the image superresolution reconstruction algorithm, this paper proposes a type of ultrasonic logging based on high-frequency characteristics, with multiscale dilated convolution to feature as the basis of network-learning blocks, training in the fusion of different scale texture feature. The outcomes of other superresolution reconstruction algorithms are then compared to the outcomes of the two-, four-, and eightfold reconstruction. The proposed algorithm enhances subjective vision while also enhancing PSNR and SSIM evaluation indexes, according to a large number of experiments.
JAK–STAT Signaling in Inflammatory Breast Cancer Enables Chemotherapy-Resistant Cell States
Authors: Stevens Laura E. , Peluffo Guillermo , Qiu Xintao , Temko Daniel , Fassl Anne , Li Zheqi , Trinh Anne , Seehawer Marco , Jovanović Bojana , Alečković Maša , Wilde Callahan M. , Geck Renee C. , Shu Shaokun , Kingston Natalie L. , Harper Nicholas W. , Almendro Vanessa , Pyke Alanna L. , Egri Shawn B. , Papanastasiou Malvina , Clement Kendell , Zhou Ningxuan , Walker Sarah , Salas Jacqueline , Park So Yeon , Frank David A. , Meissner Alexander , Jaffe Jacob D. , Sicinski Piotr , Toker Alex , Michor Franziska , Long Henry W. , Overmoyer Beth A. , Polyak Kornelia
Published: November 2022

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a difficult-to-treat disease with poor clinical outcomes due to high risk of metastasis and resistance to treatment. In breast cancer, CD44+CD24− cells possess stem cell-like features and contribute to disease progression, and we previously described a CD44+CD24−pSTAT3+ breast cancer cell subpopulation that is dependent on JAK2/STAT3 signaling. Here we report that CD44+CD24− cells are the most frequent cell type in IBC and are commonly pSTAT3+. Combination of JAK2/STAT3 inhibition with paclitaxel decreased IBC xenograft growth more than either agent alone. IBC cell lines resistant to paclitaxel and doxorubicin were developed and characterized to mimic therapeutic resistance in patients. Multi-omic profiling of parental and resistant cells revealed enrichment of genes associated with lineage identity and inflammation in chemotherapy-resistant derivatives. Integrated pSTAT3 chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analyses showed pSTAT3 regulates genes related to inflammation and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in resistant cells, as well as PDE4A, a cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase. Metabolomic characterization identified elevated cAMP signaling and CREB as a candidate therapeutic target in IBC. Investigation of cellular dynamics and heterogeneity at the single cell level during chemotherapy and acquired resistance by CyTOF and single cell RNA-seq identified mechanisms of resistance including a shift from luminal to basal/mesenchymal cell states through selection for rare preexisting subpopulations or an acquired change. Finally, combination treatment with paclitaxel and JAK2/STAT3 inhibition prevented the emergence of the mesenchymal chemo-resistant subpopulation. These results provide mechanistic rational for combination of chemotherapy with inhibition of JAK2/STAT3 signaling as a more effective therapeutic strategy in IBC.

Significance:

Chemotherapy resistance in inflammatory breast cancer is driven by the JAK2/STAT3 pathway, in part via cAMP/PKA signaling and a cell state switch, which can be overcome using paclitaxel combined with JAK2 inhibitors.
Aberrant L-Fucose Accumulation and Increased Core Fucosylation Are Metabolic Liabilities in Mesenchymal Glioblastoma
Authors: Pieri Valentina , Gallotti Alberto L. , Drago Denise , Cominelli Manuela , Pagano Ilaria , Conti Valentina , Valtorta Silvia , Coliva Angela , Lago Sara , Michelatti Daniela , Massimino Luca , Ungaro Federica , Perani Laura , Spinelli Antonello , Castellano Antonella , Falini Andrea , Zippo Alessio , Poliani Pietro L. , Moresco Rosa Maria , Andolfo Annapaola , Galli Rossella
Published: November 2022

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a common and deadly form of brain tumor in adults. Dysregulated metabolism in GBM offers an opportunity to deploy metabolic interventions as precise therapeutic strategies. To identify the molecular drivers and the modalities by which different molecular subgroups of GBM exploit metabolic rewiring to sustain tumor progression, we interrogated the transcriptome, the metabolome, and the glycoproteome of human subgroup-specific GBM sphere-forming cells (GSC). L-fucose abundance and core fucosylation activation were elevated in mesenchymal (MES) compared with proneural GSCs; this pattern was retained in subgroup-specific xenografts and in subgroup-affiliated human patient samples. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of core fucosylation significantly reduced tumor growth in MES GBM preclinical models. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)–based glycoproteomic screening indicated that most MES-restricted core-fucosylated proteins are involved in therapeutically relevant GBM pathological processes, such as extracellular matrix interaction, cell adhesion, and integrin-mediated signaling. Selective L-fucose accumulation in MES GBMs was observed using preclinical minimally invasive PET, implicating this metabolite as a potential subgroup-restricted biomarker.

Overall, these findings indicate that L-fucose pathway activation in MES GBM is a subgroup-specific dependency that could provide diagnostic markers and actionable therapeutic targets.

Significance:

Metabolic characterization of subgroup-specific glioblastoma (GBM) sphere-forming cells identifies the L-fucose pathway as a vulnerability restricted to mesenchymal GBM, disclosing a potential precision medicine strategy for targeting cancer metabolism.
Serrated Polyp Yield at Colonoscopy in Patients with Positive FIT, Positive mt-sDNA, and Colonoscopy Only: Data from the New Hampshire Colonoscopy Registry
Authors: Anderson Joseph C. , Hisey William M. , Robinson Christina M. , Limburg Paul J. , Kneedler Bonny L. , Butterly Lynn F.
Published: November 2022

Background:

Stool-based screening with fecal immunochemical (FIT) or multitarget-stool DNA (mt-sDNA) tests is associated with increased colonoscopy polyp yield. mt-sDNA includes methylated markers, which improve detection of serrated polyps (SP) versus FIT. We compared SP detection in colonoscopies performed for positive FIT or mt-sDNA tests, as well as in colonoscopies without a preceding stool test, using the New Hampshire Colonoscopy Registry, a comprehensive statewide population-based registry.

Methods:

Across the three groups, we compared the frequency of clinically relevant SPs (CRSP: sessile SPs, hyperplastic polyps ≥10 mm, and traditional serrated adenomas). We also compared SP size, histology, number, and bulk (combined sizes).

Results:

Our sample included 560 mt-sDNA+ (age ± SD: 66.5 ± 7.9), 414 FIT+ (age ± SD: 66.3 ± 8.8), and 59,438 colonoscopy-only patients (age ± SD: 61.7 ± 8.0). mt-sDNA+ patients were more likely to have a higher yield of CRSPs and CRSP bulk than FIT+ (P < 0.0001) or colonoscopy-only patients (P < 0.0001). More mt-sDNA+ patients had CRSPs without large adenomas or colorectal cancers (17.9% vs. 9.9% of FIT+ and 8% of colonoscopy-only patients). After adjusting for synchronous large adenomas, colorectal cancers, and other risk factors, mt-sDNA+ patients were more likely (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.18–2.85) than FIT+ patients to have CRSPs.

Conclusions:

mt-sDNA+ patients had a higher SP yield than FIT+ or colonoscopy-only patients, particularly in the absence of synchronous large adenomas or colorectal cancer.

Impact:

Our results suggest that screening with mt-sDNA tests could improve colorectal cancer screening by identifying more patients at increased risk from the serrated pathway.
Severe Hypophosphatemia as the Initial Presentation of Renal Fanconi’s Syndrome and Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis Related to Zoledronic Acid: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Wu Yujia , Ma Tiantian , Yu Xiaojuan , Su Tao
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Zoledronic acid (ZA) is a widely used bisphosphonate compound for the prevention of skeletal metastasis-associated osteolysis and treatment of post-menopause osteoporosis. Acute kidney injury is one of the commonly described renal complications. Electrolyte disorder has also been reported relevant to ZA exposure and nephrotoxicity. Syndrome of persistent hypophosphatemia, hypokalemia, and metabolic acidosis is regarded as the initial signs of acute kidney injury. Case Presentation: We reported a 64-year-old female with bone metastasis from lung adenocarcinoma who received a 5-year history of 4-week cycle of ZA infusion. She initially presented with symptomatic severe hypophosphatemia and was finally identified with ZA-induced generalized tubular dysfunction as Fanconi’s syndrome and distal renal tubular acidosis. Renal pathological findings revealed toxic renal tubular necrosis. The ZA infusion was thus extended to an 8-week cycle with oral phosphate supplementation and alfacalcidol. Although periodic changes pre- and post-ZA infusion existed yet, hypophosphatemia was effectively improved, and the rapid decline of eGFR was partially delayed. We reviewed the literature and mainly summarized the characteristics of bisphosphonate-associated hypophosphatemia. Moderate hypophosphatemia was more frequently mentioned in contrast to severe cases being predisposed to be reported. Progressive hypophosphatemia serves as an early sign of kidney injury. Conclusion: Progressive electrolyte disorders and CKD were the long-term renal outcomes of the current patient. We would like to arouse more attention to electrolyte imbalance related to early ZA-induced kidney injury and emphasize the significance of close monitoring.
Smartwatch ECG Tracing and Ischemic Heart Disease: ACS Watch Study
Authors: Buelga Suárez Mauro , Pascual Izco Marina , Pastor Pueyo Pablo , Lozano Granero Cristina , García Montalvo Jesús , Alonso Salinas Gonzalo Luis
Published: November 2022

Background: Smartwatches have become a widely used tool for health self-care. Its role in ischemic heart disease (IHD) has not been assessed. Objetcive: The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of smartwatch ECG registry in IHD. Methods: We present an observational study of 25 consecutive patients with acute IHD. Conventional ECG and smartwatch tracing were obtained simultaneously at admission. Waves of conventional and smartwatch ECGs were objectively compared. A survey on medical attitude was conducted among 12 physicians (3 cardiologists, 3 intensivists, 3 emergency physicians, and 3 general practitioners) and a score (1–5) of concordance between the records was requested. Results: There were no differences in Q-wave, R-wave, ST segment, or T-wave. There was a very strong correlation between ST segments, a strong correlation in Q-waves and R-waves, and a moderate correlation in T-wave measurements. All specialists obtained a high level of agreement (4.45 ± 0.45). Smartwatch tracings would lead to similar management compared to conventional ECG. There were only 6 (2%) discrepant cases due to differences in inferior repolarization, showing an almost perfect agreement (kappa = 0.96). Conclusions: In most patients with acute IHD, smartwatch ECG tracing is a reliable tool to make the diagnosis and guide appropriate medical care. However, due to their intrinsic limitations, inferior myocardial infarctions may be missed and require a conventional 12-lead ECG to rule them out.
Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Chronic Pelvic Pain in Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Babazadeh-Zavieh Seyedeh Saeideh , Bashardoust Tajali Siamak , Haeri Seyed Mohammad Jafar , Shamsi Amirhossein
Published: November 2022

Introduction: The study aimed to identify the effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Methods: We used five international databases from 2000 to 2020 and selected the clinical trials that reported the effects of TENS on CPP. We excluded the case reports, acute pelvic pain reports, men-related, animal-related, and intravaginal and intrarectal electrical stimulation articles. The level of pain (based on the visual analog scale) was considered for pooling data through the meta-analysis. Results: Ten studies met the inclusion criteria, and three articles were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that TENS application mildly reduced pain in women with primary dysmenorrhea (mean difference = −1.29; 95% CI: −2.57 to −0.01; Z = 1.98, p = 0.05). Also, to reduce pain in patients with CPP, the TENS must be applied at least for 20 min, with a pulse duration of 50–400 μs, at a frequency of 2–120 Hz. The meta-analysis was followed by assessing the risk of bias, including publication bias. Based on the Cochrane risk of bias evaluation, the majority of the included trials were assessed with moderate methodological quality. Conclusion: TENS application can mildly improve the level of pain in patients with CPP caused by primary dysmenorrhea. Although no distinct agreement was observed among the effective parameters, the high-frequency mode with maximum tolerated intensity was more effective compared to the low-frequency mode.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Evaluates Renal Injury and Predicts Renal Outcome in Patients with Gout
Authors: Li Ze , He Li , Jiao Jiali , Jia Junjie , Xing Haifan , Zhou Ting , Zhang Qiming , Chen Yini , Jiang Lixin , Wang Niansong , Fan Ying
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Kidney injury diagnosis is often delayed in patients with gout. We aimed to determine the characteristics of gout patients with CKD using musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) and whether MSUS could be used as an auxiliary assessment to evaluate kidney injury and predict renal outcome in patients with gout. Methods: Clinical information, laboratory indicators, and MSUS findings were collected and compared between gout-only patients (gout – CKD) and gout patients with CKD (gout + CKD). Multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify risk factors for clinical and MSUS characteristics in both groups. Correlation analysis between MSUS signs and kidney-related indicators was performed, and the effects of MSUS characteristics on renal prognosis were evaluated. Results: In total, 176 patients with gout were included, namely, 89 gout – CKD and 87 gout + CKD cases. After adjusting for confounders, the gout patients with CKD showed more frequent episodes in the previous year, higher ultrasound semiquantitative scores, and more tophi than gout patients without CKD. Additionally, the number of tophi, bone erosion, and synovial hypertrophy measured by MSUS was found to be negatively correlated with the eGFR. The existence of tophi was independently associated with an increased risk of a ≥10% decline in eGFR in the first-year follow-up (OR, 3.56; 95% CI, 1.382–9.176). Conclusions: Ultrasound-detected tophi, bone erosion, and synovial hypertrophy were associated with kidney injury in gout patients. The existence of tophi was associated with faster renal function deterioration. MSUS could be a potential auxiliary diagnostic method to evaluate kidney injury and predict renal outcome in gout patients.
Multimarker Analysis of Serially Measured GDF-15, NT-proBNP, ST2, GAL-3, cTnI, Creatinine, and Prognosis in Acute Heart Failure
Authors: Gürgöze Muhammed T. , van Vark Laura C. , Baart Sara J. , Kardys Isabella , Akkerhuis K. Martijn , Manintveld Olivier C. , Postmus Douwe , Hillege Hans L. , Lesman-Leegte Ivonne , Asselbergs Folkert W. , Brunner-la-Rocca Hans-Peter , van den Bos Ewout J. , Orsel Joke G. , de Ridder Stijn P.J. , Pinto Yigal M. , Boersma Eric
Published: November 2022

Background:

Studies on serially measured GDF-15 (growth differentiation factor 15) in acute heart failure (HF) are limited. Moreover, several pathophysiological pathways contribute to HF. Therefore, we aimed to explore the (additional) prognostic value of serially measured GDF-15 using a multi-marker approach to more accurately predict HF risk.

Methods:

TRIUMPH (Translational Initiative on Unique and Novel Strategies for Management of Patients With Heart Failure) is a prospective cohort of 496 patients with acute HF who were enrolled in 14 hospitals in the Netherlands between 2009 and 2014. Blood sampling was scheduled at 7 moments during 1-year follow-up. GDF-15, NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide), ST2 (suppression of tumorigenicity 2), galectin-3, troponin I, and creatinine were measured in a central laboratory. We associated repeated measurements of these biomarkers with the composite primary end point of all-cause mortality and HF rehospitalization, using multivariable joint modeling.

Results:

Median age was 74 years, and 37% were women. Median baseline GDF-15 was 4632 pg/mL. The primary end point was reached in 188 (40%) patients. The average estimated GDF-15 level increased weeks before the primary end point was reached. The hazard ratio per 1 SD difference in log-GDF-15 was 2.14 (95% CI, 1.78–2.57) unadjusted, 1.96 (1.49–2.53) after adjustment for clinical confounders and 1.44 (1.05–1.91) when jointly modeled with all biomarkers. The adjusted HRs for NT-proBNP were 2.38 (1.78–3.33) and 1.52 (1.15–2.08), respectively. The multimarker model combining GDF-15, NT-proBNP, and troponin I provided a favorable risk discrimination (area under the curve=0.785).

Conclusions:

Sequentially measured GDF-15 independently and dynamically predicts risk of adverse outcomes during 1-year follow-up after index admission for acute HF. NT-proBNP remains a robust predictor among potential candidates. Multiple biomarkers should be considered for stratification in clinical practice.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/1783
; Unique Identifier: NTR1893. (The trial can be found temporarily at
https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=NTR1893
.)
A New Photoactive Cd(II) MOF: Dye Degradation and Nursing Values on Postpartum Infection by Inhibiting the Staphylococcus aureus Growth
Authors: Zeng Su-Li , Zhou Lei , Liu Xiao-Xia
Published: November 2022

We formed the fresh Cd(II) compound called {[(CH3)2NH2][Cd(btb)(DMA)]}n · n(DMA) (1, H3btb = 1,3,5-benzenetribenzoic acid, DMA = N, N′-dimethylacetamide), which was constructed via the polymerization of btb3−
ligands and Cd(II) ions in a solvothermal environment. Photocatalytic investigation results indicated that compound 1 had extraordinary photocatalytic ability to degrade methyl blue (MB) under ultraviolet irradiation and that degradation efficiency could reach 81.15% after 90 min irradiation.
Its application value on the postpartum infection was discussed, and the principle of immanence was probed. The ELISA detection kit was used to measure the content of inflammatory cytokines secreted to the plasma during bacterial infection. The relative expression levels of Staphylococcus
aureus survival genes were determined by real-time RT-PCR.
Environmental Impact of Construction Waste Mixture Containing Heavy Metals Pollutants Cadmium (Cd) and Arsenic (As) Used in Highway Engineering
Authors: Wang Haiying , Wang Xichuan , Xu Jian , Zhang Yingzhi
Published: November 2022

The benefits of using mixed-CDW (construction and demolition waste) in highway construction was a recent hot topic. In this study, the analysis of the pollutant content of 49 sets of the mixed-CDW samples from 11 construction waste treatment plants found that the content of heavy metals
Cd and As exceeded the standard. The release characteristics of Cd and As pollutants in the mixed-CDW under different conditions were studied by leaching experiments. The results show that the particle size, pH and liquid-to-solid ratio of the mixed-CDW have a greater impact on the leaching
pollutants of Cd and As. When the particle size of the mixed-CDW with over-standard Cd and As is less than 0.3 cm, pH is 4, liquid–solid ratio (L:S) is 0.4, the concentrations of Cd and As in the leachate still meet the relevant environmental protection standards in China and Europe.
From an environmental perspective, it is feasible for the mixed-CDW with over-standard Cd and As to be used in highway projects, which further expands the application scope and scale of the mixed-CDW.
The Late 1970s Shift in ENSO Persistence Barrier Modulated by the Seasonal Amplitude of ENSO Growth Rate
Authors: Jiang Ning , Yu Minjie , Lu Bo , Leung Jeremy Cheuk-Hin , Zhu Congwen
Published: November 2022

The persistence barrier (PB), one of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) properties, has exhibited a significant decadal variability, showing enhanced and weakened behavior before and after the late 1970s, respectively. In the present study, both the theoretical solution and the observations indicate that the variability of PB intensity is linearly proportional to the seasonal amplitude of ENSO growth rate, which accounts for the ENSO PB decadal variability. With further use of the Bjerknes–Jin (BJ) index analysis, we find that the decadal reduction in PB intensity since the late 1970s is mainly attributed to the mean advection and the thermocline feedback. In addition, the stronger spring thermal damping delayed the timing of PB in the 1980s and 1990s. Our study establishes a linear relationship between PB intensity and ENSO growth rate, which carries implications for understanding the ENSO predictability and the systematic changes in ENSO properties under climate change.
COVID and Cognitive Warfare in Taiwan
Authors: Yu Max Tsung-Chi , Ho Karl
Published: November 2022

In this study, we examine China’s cognitive warfare coordinated with military air operations during the COVID pandemic in Taiwan. In May 2021, Taiwan experienced its first novel coronavirus outbreak with up to 500 daily cases. The Chinese government launched a series of coordinated “cognitive warfare” campaigns targeting Taiwan in addition to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) frequent air force incursions into Taiwan’s air zone. Meanwhile, through manipulation of the vaccine supply, China turned COVID vaccine into a political issue in Taiwan involving multiple players including pharmaceutical developers, tech giants, and local politicians. Combining multiple sources of data, we analyze the Chinese Government’s orchestrated cognitive and information warfare (IW) efforts targeted at influencing the Taiwan public’s trust in the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government as well as its home-developed vaccine. Identifying the patterns of influencing using cognitive and IW, we found China’s ultimate goal was to instill skepticism and confusion in Taiwan’s public about the President Tsai Ing-wen’s health policy and more generally undermine the creditability of the DPP government.
“At School, It's a Completely Different World”: African Immigrant Youth Agency and Negotiation of Their Adaptation Processes in US Urban Schools
Authors: Kiramba Lydiah Kananu , Traore Hanihani Moundiba , Trainin Guy
Published: November 2022

African immigrant youth adaptation processes in US schools remain under-researched. Using qualitative case study, this article examines West African immigrant middle- and high-school youth adaptation experiences in US urban schools. Findings show that racialized experiences, English proficiency levels, and multilingualism affected social relationships (both supportive and conflicted) with families, communities, peers, and school contexts. These experiences crucially influenced African immigrant youths’ adaptation processes. Participants drew from community resources and developed resilience skills to negotiate acculturative stressors when seeking friendship, belonging, and an integrated sense of identity in their new home. Recommendations for further supporting positive adaptive strategies are discussed.
Surgeon-anatomist to robotic technician? The evolving role of the surgeon over three centuries
Authors: Hughes Sean Patrick , Macintyre Iain
Published: November 2022

In the 18th century, anatomy was the principal science underlying surgical practice. Over the next three centuries, the scientific basis of surgery changed dramatically. Morbid anatomy led to the understanding of organ-based pathologies that allowed surgeons to remove, reconstruct and in some cases replace internal organs. In the 19th century, the new science of microbiology facilitated antisepsis, then asepsis as surgery progressed from a craft to a scientific discipline. Yet many surgeons believed that surgery was not merely a science but also an art, in which the creativity of the doctor was necessary for progress. Surgical advancement depended on creative individuals with innovative flair, prepared to pioneer often risky procedures in the face of mainstream opposition. The 20th century saw a series of changes that made such individualism more difficult. ‘Scientific Management’ when applied to surgery decreed that procedures be performed according to predetermined schedules, a drive to uniformity producing better outcomes and diminishing individual variation. Yet inventive individuals continued to produce surgical advances. In the 21st century, moves toward standardisation developed further. The escalating safety culture in surgery moderates the introduction of novel, potentially riskier procedures, while more and more regulation increasingly requires surgeons to adhere to guidelines and protocols, further restricting surgical individualism. Moreover, the role of the individual is further diminished, as surgical care is delivered by teams, both in deciding management in major cases and in the operating theatre. The introduction of robotics into surgery has led to the suggestion that the role of the surgeon may become that of a technician. Will these constraints, and greater patient involvement in decisions, allow tomorrow’s surgeons the freedom to innovate? We believe that the pioneering spirit, imagination and flair will not be lost. Tomorrow’s surgeons must remain doctors, showing the compassion and empathy that robots cannot provide.
Towards best practice during COVID-19: A responsive and relational program with remote schools to enhance the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
Authors: McCalman Janya , Caelli Nicole , Travers Helen , Graham Veronica , Hunter Ernest
Published: November 2022

Purpose: From 2018, the Schools Up North (SUN) programme worked with three remote Australian schools to enhance their capability and resilience to support the wellbeing and mental health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff. This paper explores the implementation of SUN during the first two years of COVID-19 (2020–2021). Method: Using grounded theory methods, school staff, other service providers and SUN facilitators were interviewed, with transcripts and programme documents coded and interrelationships between codes identified. An implementation model was developed. Results: The SUN approach was place-based, locally informed and relational, fostering school resilience through staff reflection on and response to emerging contextual challenges. Challenges were the: community lockdowns and school closures; (un)availability of other services; community uncertainty and anxiety; school staff capability and wellbeing; and risk of educational slippage. SUN strategies were: enhancing teachers’ capabilities and resources, facilitating public health discussions, and advocating at regional level. Outcomes were: enhanced capability of school staff; greater school-community engagement; student belonging and engagement; a voice for advocacy; and continuity of SUN's momentum. Conclusions: The resilience approach (rather than specific strategies) was critical for building schools’ capabilities for promoting students and staff wellbeing and provides an exemplar for remote schools globally.
Intrathyroidal Thymic Carcinoma: A Retrospective Case Series Study
Authors: Liang Jinhui , Huang Mei , Huang Helang , Li Li , Luo Hailin , Mao Weidong , Gao Shan , Xu Haoxiang
Published: November 2022

Objective

Intrathyroidal thymic carcinoma (ITC) is a rare low-grade malignant thyroid tumor. There is neither sufficient understanding of this tumor nor its clinical treatment. This study is to explore the clinicopathological features, treatment, and prognosis of ITC and thereby provide a reference for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Methods

The clinical, pathological, therapeutic, and prognostic data of 13 patients with ITC were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The case series comprised 7 males and 6 females, with an average age of 51.9 ± 10.1 years. After surgical resection, all patients received post-operative neck radiotherapy at dosages of 60–66 Gy. Five patients with level VI lymph node metastasis additionally received 6 courses of cisplatin chemotherapy. All patients were followed-up for 21–132 months (median = 66 months), and all of them survived without recurrence or metastasis.

Conclusions

The diagnosis of ITC depends mainly on pathological and immunohistochemical results, particularly CD5 positive staining. Surgical resection is the preferred primary treatment modality which can be supplemented with radiotherapy and chemotherapy to reduce the risk of recurrence and metastasis.
Feasibility and performance of a combined extracorporeal assisted cardiac resuscitation and an organ donation program after uncontrolled cardiocirculatory death (Maastricht II)
Authors: Nobre de Jesus Gustavo , Neves Inês , Gouveia João , Ribeiro João
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Approximately 500.000 people in Europe sustain cardiac arrest (CA) every year, being myocardial infarction the main etiology. Interest has been raised in a new approach to refractory cardiac arrest (rCA) using extra-corporeal oxygenation (ECMO). In settings where it can be rapidly implemented, ECMO assisted resuscitation (ECPR) may be considered. Additionally, donation after circulatory death, which seeks to obtain solid organs donation from patients suffering rCA, has increased its role effectively increasing the pool of donors. Combined programs with integration of ECPR and uncontrolled donation after circulatory determination of death (uDCDD) are worldwide limited and experience integrating these two techniques is lacking.

Methods

We report a 24 months experience of ECPR and uDCDD kidney transplantation based on a management protocol in a university teaching hospital in the urban area of Lisbon.

Results

Over a period of 24 months, 58 patients were admitted to our ICU with rCA, 6 (10%) in the ECPR program and 52 (90%) in the uDCDD. Seventy-eight percent of patients were male, with an average age of 49 year-old. CA was witnessed in 83% of cases and initial rhythm was ventricular fibrillation in 20 cases (35%). 13 (25%) patients were effective organ donors. Refusal for effective donation was mainly due to prior comorbidities.

Discussion

The development of an integrated program for ECPR and uDCDD is feasible and requires a well-established and efficient activation program. In an era of significant organ shortage, it provides a viable option for increasing the organ donation pool, with promising results.
Preoperative ultrasound-guided bilateral thoracic erector spinae plane block within an enhanced recovery program is associated with decreased intraoperative lactate levels in cardiac surgery
Authors: Demir Aslı Z , Özgök Ayşegül , Balcı Eda , Karaca Okay G , Şimşek Erdal , Günaydin Serdar
Published: November 2022

Introduction

In the perioperative period, regional analgesia techniques may play an increasingly important role in “Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS)” programs, as they can facilitate recovery. We hypothesized that Erector Spinae Plane (ESP) block could improve regional perfusion, thereby limiting blood lactate increase. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the effect of ESP block on intraoperative blood lactate levels in patients scheduled for elective on-pump cardiac surgery with ERAS protocol.

Methods

A total of 68 adult patients scheduled for on-pump cardiac surgery were included. All patients were randomized to the ESP group and the non-ESP group. Blood lactate analyses were performed at intraoperative five-time points. C-Reactive protein (CRP) values were also measured.

Results

Blood lactate values were significantly lower in the ESP group than in the Non-ESP group, at the end of CPB [1.78 (1.23–2.78) mmol L−1 to 2.63 (1.70–3.12) mmol L−1] and during the sternal closure period [1.78 (1.27–2.42) mmol L−1 to 2.40 (2.14–2.80) mmol L−1] ( p = 0.039, p = 0.009). In addition, CRP values were significantly lower in the ESP group in the postoperative period [0.048 (0.036–0.105) g L−1 to 0.090 (0.049–0.154) g L−1] ( p = 0.035).

Conclusions

This study showed that preoperative bilateral single-shot ESP block significantly reduces intraoperative final blood lactate and postoperative CRP values. We consider that these results are related to the attenuation of intraoperative hypoperfusion and the alleviation of surgery-related postoperative inflammation. ERAS programs aim to achieve the rapid recovery of patients, a decrease in inflammation, and high-quality analgesia with less opioid consumption. Therefore, our results also prove that it is easier to reach the primary goals of ERAS programs with the application of ESP block in cardiac surgery.
Tracheotomy in ventilator-dependent patients with COVID-19: a cross-sectional study of analgesia and sedative requirements
Authors: Wiemann Brianne , Mitchell Jessica , Sarangarm Preeyaporn , Miskimins Richard
Published: November 2022

Objective

During March 2020 in the United States, demand for sedatives increased by 91%, that for analgesics rose by 79%, and demand for neuromuscular blockers increased by 105%, all owing to the number of COVID-19 cases requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (MV). We hypothesize that analgesic and sedative requirements decrease following tracheotomy in this patient population.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we conducted a retrospective chart review to identify patients with COVID-19 who underwent tracheotomy (T) at an academic medical center between March 2020 and January 2021. We used a paired Student t-test to compare total oral morphine equivalents (OMEs), total lorazepam equivalents, 24-hour average dexmedetomidine dosage in μg/kg/hour, and 24-hour average propofol dosage in μg/kg/minute on days T−1 and T+2 for each patient.

Results

Of 50 patients, 46 required opioids before and after tracheotomy (mean decrease of 49.4 mg OMEs). Eight patients required benzodiazepine infusion (mean decrease of 45.1 mg lorazepam equivalents. Fifteen patients required dexmedetomidine infusion (mean decrease 0.34 μg/kg/hour). Seventeen patients required propofol (mean decrease 20.5 μg/kg/minute).

Conclusions

When appropriate personal protective equipment is available, use of tracheotomy in patients with COVID-19 who require MV may help to conserve medication supplies in times of extreme shortages.
Voices of Female Sexual Assault Survivors: Striving for Survivor-Centered Reporting Processes in the U.S. Criminal Justice System
Authors: Iwasaki Michiko , Picchiello Matthew C. , Morgan Casie H. , Henninger Amy L.
Published: November 2022

In the present qualitative study, we analyzed voices of female sexual assault survivors to enhance the survivor-centered framework. We reviewed over 1,000 comments from a survey asking participants to share experiences following their sexual assault. Participants were 460 female survivors, including 163 reporters (those who reported their sexual assault to police officers) and 297 nonreporters. We identified four core themes ( safety, empowerment and choice, collaboration, and explanation of procedures) as desired characteristics for the five key response personnel groups: patrol officers, detectives, sexual assault forensic examiner nurses, State's Attorney's Office staff, and victim advocates. We identified the strengths and weaknesses of each group based on the shared experiences of culturally marginalized and nonmarginalized reporters. A general free-text question answered by participants reflected on the four core themes, but also stressed the need for multiple layers of intervention in responding to sexual assault, as seen in two secondary themes ( extra support and systemic change). Nonreporters also stressed barriers to reporting and regrets about not reporting. The power of survivors’ narratives can be used to guide the criminal justice system to uphold a truly survivor-centered approach. The complexities of gender and power inequality between the perpetrators, survivors, and response personnel should also be addressed.
Cost-effective numerical analysis of the DrivAer fastback model aerodynamics
Authors: Felekos Georgios , Douvi Eleni , Margaris Dionissios
Published: November 2022

This paper investigates cost-efficient ways of accurately numerically simulating the aerodynamic phenomena around the DrivAer model, a well-established conventional car reference model created by the Technical University of Münich (TUM). After processing the geometry of the Fastback configuration, a high quality ANSYS Poly-Hexcore mesh was constructed in ANSYS Fluent Meshing, reducing the number of cells needed for a highly accurate simulation. The grid independence study was conducted with the GCI method where convergence was achieved by a 10.5-million-cell mesh. The simulations were performed in ANSYS Fluent, where modeling using k-ε Realizable turbulence model, with Scalable wall functions and the SimpleC algorithm was chosen. The results showed good prediction of the drag and pressure coefficients, proving the accuracy and efficiency of the approach, while the flow and vortices were visualized and presented in the corresponding diagrams, being indicative of the aerodynamic structures around automotive vehicles.
Evolution of Afghanistan as an Independent State
Authors: Jafri H.A.S.
Published: November 2022

Afghanistan, a mountainous and landlocked country having an area of 6,50,000 sq. kms. and an estimated population of 16 million finds earliest reference in Bharat Samhita, a treatise by Varah Mihira, the famous Indian astronomer. The ancient names of the present cities of Kandhar (Gandhara), Kabul (Kubah) and Balkh (Balhika) find their earliest mention in the Rigveda. It was in the region presently known as Afghanistan that Brahminism and Zorastrianism had their origin and two of the most important monuments Rigveda and Avesta came into being. Again it was Afghanistan through which Buddhism penetrated into Sinkiang and later on in the eleventh century Islam found its way into the Indian sub-continent. Earlier, part of the Persian and Alexander's empire, the region came under the rule of the Turkoman Dynasty in the tenth century; later it was conquered by Mongol Emperor Tamerlane about 1400. A new Asian empire began to emerge under Babur who captured Kabul in 1504 and Delhi twenty two years later. It was, however, only in 1747 that Ahmad Shah Abdali unified different autonomous tribes to give the present Afghanistan a definite shape. That has been described by some as the Durrani Empire and not a nation state.1 The state boundaries of Afghanistan could be firmly identified only by the end of the nineteenth century and Afghanistan emerged as an independent state after the third Afghan War in 1919.
Ties That Bind or Blind? The Role of Identity and Place in Understanding Women Entrepreneurs’ Support Needs
Authors: Arshed Norin , Martin Graeme , Knox Stephen
Published: November 2022

This article explores how women entrepreneurs enact identity work to construct their identities at the intersection of gender and entrepreneurship while facing challenges to their legitimacy as entrepreneurs. These legitimacy challenges trigger reflections into who they are as entrepreneurs, and where they belong within entrepreneurial contexts. We draw on 24 focus groups with women entrepreneurs and 30 interviews with enterprise support organizations. We present a model which advances our understanding of the complex identities of women entrepreneurs and how their use of identity work enables them (or not) to become legitimate members of an entrepreneurial community.
Identifying Nursing Homes With Diverse Racial and Ethnic Resident Compositions: The Importance of Group Heterogeneity and Geographic Context
Authors: Bowblis John R. , Akosionu Odichinma , Ng Weiwen , Shippee Tetyana P.
Published: November 2022

Racial/ethnic composition of nursing home (NH) plays a particularly important role in NH quality. A key methodological issue is defining when an NH serves a low versus high proportion of racially/ethnically diverse residents. Using the Minimum Data Set from 2015 merged with Certification and Survey Provider Enhanced Reports, we calculated the racial/ethnic composition of U.S.-based NHs for Black or Hispanic residents specifically, and a general Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) grouping for long-stay residents. We examined different definitions of having a high racial/ethnic composition by varying percentile thresholds of composition, state-specific and national thresholds, and restricting composition to BIPOC residents as well as only Black and Hispanic residents. NHs with a high racial/ethnic composition have different facility characteristics than the average NH. Based on this, we make suggestions for how to identify NHs with diverse racial/ethnic resident compositions.
Using Computer-Assisted Instruction to Decrease Transition Times for Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Bewley Kristina A. , Crosland Kimberly , Fuller Asha
Published: November 2022

Students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have a difficult time transitioning frequently throughout a school day, and problem behavior can be more apparent during this time. Valuable academic time can be preserved by decreasing the time it takes to transition between tasks. Hine et al. (2015) found that computer-assisted instruction (CAI)–based intervention was successful in decreasing classroom transition times for students in general education. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a similar CAI intervention to decrease the latency to on-task behavior during transitions in students with ASD. Two different transitions were evaluated with three student participants with ASD. Results indicated the CAI intervention decreased latency to on-task behavior for all three participants for both transitions without the need for a reinforcement component. High implementation fidelity and social validity scores demonstrated acceptance of the intervention by both the teachers and the student participants.
Calretinin Staining in Anorectal Line Biopsies Accurately Distinguished Hirschsprung Disease in a Retrospective Study
Authors: Logan Suzanna J. , Yin Hong , Rogers Beverly , Arva Nicoleta , Conces Miriam R. , Cope-Yokoyama Sandy , Dehner Louis P. , Galliani Carlos , Garg Shipra , He Mai , Husain Aliya N. , Keisling Matthew , Krishnan Chandra , Puscasiu Elena , Rossi Christopher , Siddiqui Faiza , Sutton Lisa , Terry Jefferson , Thaker Ameet I. , Huang Yuan , Zhang Jie , McCracken Courtney , Rytting Heather
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

The absence of submucosal ganglion cells does not reliably distinguish Hirschsprung disease from non Hirschsprung disease in anorectal line biopsies. Calretinin staining might be helpful in these biopsies. To determine its value, we analyzed calretinin positive mucosal neurites in anorectal line biopsies.

Methods:

Two pediatric pathologists, without access to patient data, evaluated calretinin positive mucosal neurites in anorectal line junctional mucosa in archival rectal biopsies contributed by 17 institutions. A separate investigator compiled patient information and sent data for statistical analysis.

Results:

Biopsies with anorectal junctional mucosa from 115 patients were evaluated for calretinin positive mucosal neurites. 20/20 Hirschsprung disease biopsies were negative. 87/88 non Hirschsprung disease biopsies and 7/7 post pullthrough Hirschsprung disease neorectal biopsies were positive. Statistical analysis of the 108 non pullthrough biopsies yielded an accuracy of 99.1% (sensitivity 100%, specificity 98.9%). Age range was preterm to 16 years. Biopsy size was less than 1 mm to over 1 cm.

Conclusions:

Absence of calretinin positive mucosal neurites at the anorectal line was highly accurate in distinguishing Hirschsprung disease from non Hirschsprung disease cases in this blinded retrospective study. Calretinin staining is useful for interpreting biopsies from the physiologic hypoganglionic zone up to the anorectal line.
Secularity and Urban Gentrification: An Spatial Analysis of Downtown Buddhist Temples in Shanghai
Authors: Huang Weishan
Published: November 2022

This essay examines the relationship between the processes of urban change and the politically and commercially constructed nature of Buddhism since 1978 in Shanghai. After examining data from 120 temples together with ethnographic research in two downtown temples, the author finds two key changes in urban Buddhism: First, political constructions cause an increasing divide between the city center and suburban areas in the religious spaces of Buddhism. The mainstreaming of Buddhism in the downtown areas has emerged with the new trend of economic and cultural gentrification that has generated different physical and social neighborhoods. Second, not confined to being iconized as tourist sites, Buddhist temples led by powerful abbots are engaged in “niche-switching” between attracting commuters and visitors and attending to temple-based devotees. With new spatial strategies, such as the development of cultural philanthropy and interprovincial pilgrimages, temple-based clergy have to negotiate their social positions in the commercial zones. The results indicate how the neighborhood has become less important once temples extend their members’ nongeographic ties.
Paying for ads or getting into the news? How parties persuade citizens of their issue competence during an election campaign
Authors: Petitpas Adrien
Published: November 2022

During campaigns, parties must defend their reputation of competence on issues to persuade citizens to vote for them (issue ownership). Consequently, what are the most effective strategies to achieve this? I argue that direct (advertising) and indirect (media coverage) communication strategies have different effects on citizens’ perception of party competence. To analyze the impact of campaign dynamics on citizens, I use three data sources: an individual rolling cross-section panel, a media coverage analysis, and a parties’ advertisements analysis. I link those data on a daily basis to capture the dynamics of parties’ communication and citizens' opinion. The results show that advertisements help parties to win and maintain their issue ownership, while media coverage only helps parties to maintain their ownership. The study has scientific and practical implications with regard to party strategy, campaigns, and citizens’ perceptions of parties.