bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical relationship between resonant frequency and structure parameters of a normal mode helix dipole antenna for an ultra-high frequency radio frequency identification tag thread
Authors: Zhang Yong , Meng Fenye , Hu Jiyong , Yan Xiong , Yang Xudong
Published: June 2022

The thread-based ultra-high frequency radio frequency identification (UHF RFID) tag with a normal mode helix dipole antenna (NMHDA) shows great potential in anti-theft and implant wireless sensors; for the engineered and digitized design of the high-performance tag, it is necessary to know the physical relationship between the resonant frequency and structure parameters of the NMHDA. Previous work for the design of the NMHDA structure is based on the self-resonant principle, that is, zero port reactance, while the port impedance of the NMHDA in the UHF RFID tag thread at resonant frequency is ideally conjugate matching to the chip. Under the requirement of conjugate matching, this study built the physical relationship between the resonant frequency and structural parameters of the NMHDA (helical radius, helical pitch, and single arm length) by linking the chip impedance with the NMHDA impedance. Meanwhile, the reported equivalent impedance model of the NMHDA, consisted of a lumped inductor and a linear dipole antenna, was utilized and modified by considering the distributed capacitance deviation from the NMHDA geometry simplification as part of the lumped inductor. Finally, the physical relationship was put into practice for the design of an UHF RFID tag thread with expected resonant frequency, and the long reading range of the prototype (over 14 m) demonstrated the rationality of the modification. In addition, the discussion on the structure parameter of the NMHDA clarified the efficiency of our proposed method. Generally, the built physical relationship explicitly gives the physical effects of the structural parameters and provides a parametric method for the structure design of a NMHDA for the UHF RFID tag thread.
Grounded Hope in God: Epiphany and Promise
Authors: Moser Paul K.
Published: June 2022

Various New Testament writings assume an important role for hope in God. The role of eschatology in those writings stems from a role for hope regarding what God will accomplish by way of redemption. The apostle Paul goes further to identify a widely neglected evidential ground for hope in God. This ground is in divine agapē toward humans in their experience, and it anchors, as supporting evidence, not only human hope in God but also divine promises for humans. In Paul's view, then, divine epiphany and divine promise belong together as constituents of grounded human hope in God. His view provides a needed corrective to Jürgen Moltmann's influential but unduly sharp contrast, in Theology of Hope and elsewhere , between a God of epiphany and a God of promise. It offers an important kind of experience-grounded hope in God neglected by Moltmann and others.
Imago Dei and Human Rights: A North Korean Case Study
Authors: Yoon I Sil
Published: June 2022

In this article, I examine the significance of the theological concept of Imago Dei for shaping social structures to protect the human rights of trafficked stateless women. My case study will consider North Korean stateless women who had been trafficked in China and who currently reside in South Korea. The victims lived as stateless persons during their stay in China. Even after their escape to and arrival in South Korea, they have continued to suffer from the long-term impacts of trafficking. I explore the types of social transformation that are necessary for these North Korean victims’ healing and social reintegration in South Korea. I first examine Imago Dei as a theological concept that grounds the fundamental dignity inherent in all human beings. I explore how Imago Dei serves the role of public theology by critiquing the unjust social structures that exacerbate human rights violations faced by migrants, and furthering social transformation. I engage with the primary literature dealing with Catholic social teaching on human dignity and human rights. I then investigate the maladjustment and human rights violations faced by North Koreans after their arrival in South Korea, and the social structures that exacerbate their difficulties. I employ academic journals and books that contain theoretical, historical, and empirical data about this population. Semi-structured interviews with eight North Korean women who were trafficked in China and who currently reside in South Korea were conducted. Finally, I explore how the implications of Imago Dei can provide justification and motivation for the protection of North Korean women's human rights. I also make suggestions for possible institutional changes that could be pursued by the South Korean government and non-governmental organizations to support North Korean trafficked women's resettlement in South Korea and to guarantee their human rights.
Termination Criteria for Grid Multiclassification Adaptive Testing With Multidimensional Polytomous Items
Authors: Wang Zhuoran , Wang Chun , Weiss David J
Published: June 2022

Adaptive classification testing (ACT) is a variation of computerized adaptive testing (CAT) that is developed to efficiently classify examinees into multiple groups based on predetermined cutoffs. In multidimensional multiclassification (i.e., more than two categories exist along each dimension), grid classification is proposed to classify each examinee into one of the grids encircled by cutoffs (lines/surfaces) along different dimensions so as to provide clearer information regarding an examinee’s relative standing along each dimension and facilitate subsequent treatment and intervention. In this article, the sequential probability ratio test (SPRT) and confidence interval method were implemented in the grid multiclassification ACT. In addition, two new termination criteria, the grid classification generalized likelihood ratio (GGLR) and simplified grid classification generalized likelihood ratio were proposed for grid multiclassification ACT. Simulation studies, using a simulated item bank, and a real item bank with polytomous multidimensional items, show that grid multiclassification ACT is more efficient than classification based on measurement CAT that focuses on trait estimate precision. In the context of a high-quality bank, GGLR was found to most efficiently terminate the grid multiclassification ACT and classify examinees.
Strategies to Ensure Continuity of Care Using Telemedicine with Older Adults during COVID-19: A Qualitative Study of Physicians in Primary Care and Geriatrics
Authors: Chen Kevin , Davoodi Natalie M. , Strauss Daniel H. , Li Melinda , Jiménez Frances N. , Guthrie Kate M. , Goldberg Elizabeth M.
Published: June 2022

Objectives: Our objective was to interview primary care physicians (PCPs) and geriatricians on their experiences using telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic to examine strategies used to maintain continuity of care with their patients, ages 65 and older. Methods: Using purposive sampling, we selected physicians based on community size (metro/suburban/rural) and practice setting (academic/community) and conducted semi-structured interviews via Zoom (mean: 30 minutes). Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded, and analyzed using framework analysis. Results: We enrolled 33 physicians (15 PCPs and 18 geriatricians) from July to November 2020. Findings indicate that many physicians successfully bridged the digital divide by: assessing patients’ technological readiness in advance, being flexible with telehealth modes, using available home or facility-based staff, educating patients on telehealth privacy and usefulness, making accommodations for disabilities, and involving caregivers. Discussion: These findings can inform future policy and practice and assist physicians in resolving addressable barriers to telehealth use among older patients.
Examining The Changing Nature of Stress: Stress of Working from Home during Pandemic Crisis
Authors: Shiuen Amanda Liew Li , Chin Wong Siew , Seong Lim Chui , Rasdi Roziah Mohd
Published: June 2022

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship among social isolation, lack of facility provision, family commitment and work from home (WFH) job stress among academicians. Data were collected from 180 respondents who were academicians who worked from home during the period of movement control order (MCO) owing to the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. Partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyse the data collected. The results show that all predictors, namely social isolation, lack of facilities provision and family commitment are statistically correlated to WFH job stress. The empirical findings provide additional insights in order to improve the understanding of the existing model of stress and practical implications for academicians, educational institutions/schools and the government in order to reduce/address WFH job stress effectively. In addition, the study seeks to enhance awareness and destigmatize the mental health issues of academicians due to the changes in the nature of the job, which is important to help them to maintain a healthy well-being during the pandemic crisis.
Distribution and Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles of Bacterial Aetiologies of Childhood Otitis Media in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Dayie Nicholas TKD , Bannah Vida , Dwomoh Felicia P , Kotey Fleischer CN , Donkor Eric S
Published: June 2022

Background:

Otitis media (OM), also known as middle ear infection, is a clinically significant childhood disease. In sub-Saharan Africa, there is a paucity of contemporary reports on its bacterial aetiologies and antimicrobial resistance.

Aim:

To investigate the OM bacterial aetiologies and their antimicrobial resistance patterns among children visiting the Ear, Nose, and Throat clinics of 3 healthcare facilities in Accra, Ghana – Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital, 37 Military Hospital, and Mamprobi Hospital.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study involved 100 children below 13 years old with suppurative otitis media. Following standard bacteriological methods, sterile ear swabs were used to take middle ear discharges from the study participants for culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. A standard questionnaire was also used to collect data on socio-demographic and clinical characteristics.

Results:

The major OM bacterial aetiologies were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (38.5%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (19.8%), Proteus mirabilis (11.5%), and Staphylococcus aureus (10.4%). The majority of the bacteria demonstrated low to moderate resistance (0%-33.3%) to most of the antibiotics. Eight of the bacteria (4 each of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli) were extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producers; 6 ampicillinase (Amp C)-producing organisms (4 Citrobacter spp. and one each of Morganella morganii and Serratia marcescens) were also identified, and they showed high antibiotic resistance.

Conclusions:

The predominant OM aetiologies were Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, and Staphylococcus aureus, and they were generally susceptible to most of the antibiotics tested. Amikacin, cefepime, ciprofloxacin, and meropenem could be valuable in the empirical management of childhood OM.
Unexplained chest pain in a patient with giant cell arteritis? Think aortic dissection
Authors: Abishek Joshua , Akintayo Richard , Isles Chris
Published: June 2022

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the commonest of the large-vessel vasculitides. Aortic inflammation in patients with GCA was first described over 80 years ago, but it has only been possible to study this systematically following the development of more sophisticated imaging techniques such as computed tomography angiography, magnetic resonance angiography and positron emission tomography. Both NICE and the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recognise that aortic dissection may complicate GCA but stop short of recommending routine imaging. We report a case that highlights a possible need for large-vessel imaging at the time of diagnosis and during follow-up to enable earlier recognition of aortitis and associated complications including dissection.
Seeing through the cracks
Authors: Witkowski Cecylia , Dhillon Niku , Dhillon Baljean
Published: June 2022

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is an autosomal recessive multisystem disorder showing phenotypic heterogeneity giving rise to complex comorbidities. The most ‘visible’ signs are dermatological; however, these may be subtle and hidden from the view of an affected individual. Ophthalmic signs can be easily missed, and here we highlight the importance of a multisystem assessment. We report a patient who developed advanced sight loss due to maculopathy whose underlying PXE aetiology went unnoticed until subtle skin signs were noticed on the lateral aspect of his neck. He was aware of the skin changes. Careful review of his previous retinal imaging showed the presence of ‘angioid streaks’ and anatomic alteration at the outer retina-Bruch membrane associated with his prior history of choroidal neovascularisation. The diagnosis was subsequently confirmed by skin biopsy and genetic testing. This case highlights the subtlety of both dermatological and ophthalmic signs in PXE.
The Weekly Calendar Planning Activity to Assess Functional Cognition in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Foster Erin R. , Carson Lisa , Jonas Jill , Kang Eunyoung , Doty Tasha , Toglia Joan
Published: June 2022

The Weekly Calendar Planning Activity (WCPA) may improve understanding of functional cognition in people with Parkinson disease (PwPD) without dementia. We aimed to determine if WCPA performance (a) discriminates between PwPD with and without cognitive impairment and healthy controls and (b) correlates with other indicators of cognition and daily function. This was a cross-sectional study. Parkinson disease (PD) participants without dementia were divided into normal cognition (PD-NC, n = 25) and possible mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI, n = 21) groups. Their WCPA performance was compared with that of a normative sample ( n = 196) and correlated with neuropsychological test performance and self-reported cognition and participation. Both the PD-MCI and PD-NC groups had impaired WCPA performance. WCPA performance correlated with executive function, processing speed, and self-reported cognition and participation. The WCPA can detect functional cognitive deficits in PwPD without dementia and can inform occupational therapy interventions to support functional cognition, occupational performance, and participation in this population.
Experimental study on impact wear characteristics of the skip liner under different impact velocities and coal types
Authors: Yin Zixin , Li Tongqing , Wang Nan , Mi Zhentao
Published: June 2022

The skip liner is a primary wearing component that is subjected to direct impacts and friction from coal in the mineshaft hoisting system. In this research, a skip tester was designed to investigate the impact wear characteristics of liner such as the wear quantity, impact load, and wear morphology under different impact velocities and coal types. The discrete element method (DEM) simulation was used to predict the wear distribution and load behavior for different coal particle sizes. The experimental results show that the wear failure of the liner is due to impact wear and abrasive wear. The impact velocity has significant effects on all three evaluation indices, and a larger impact velocity causes a greater wear degree. Three evaluation indices show that the coking coal causes a higher impact wear. In addition, the DEM simulation results show that the coal particle size has a significant influence on the impact load of the liner, the normal cumulative contact energy increases with the increase of the coal particle size, but the tangential cumulative contact energy decreases with the increase of the coal particle size. The use of a DEM simulation can predict the regions subjected to wear in the skip and the dynamic behavior of the coal particles, which provide a method for optimizing the parameters of coal particles and for improving the service life of the skip liner.
Armadillo regulates nociceptive sensitivity in the absence of injury
Authors: Hale Christine , Moulton Julie , Otis Yvonne , Ganter Geoffrey
Published: June 2022

Abnormal pain has recently been estimated to affect ∼50 million adults each year within the United States. With many treatment options for abnormal pain, such as opioid analgesics, carrying numerous deleterious side effects, research into safer and more effective treatment options is crucial. To help elucidate the mechanisms controlling nociceptive sensitivity, the Drosophila melanogaster larval nociception model has been used to characterize well-conserved pathways through the use of genetic modification and/or injury to alter the sensitivity of experimental animals. Mammalian models have provided evidence of β-catenin signaling involvement in neuropathic pain development. By capitalizing on the conserved nature of β-catenin functions in the fruit fly, here we describe a role for Armadillo, the fly homolog to mammalian β-catenin, in regulating baseline sensitivity in the primary nociceptor of the fly, in the absence of injury, using under- and over-expression of Armadillo in a cell-specific manner. Underexpression of Armadillo resulted in hyposensitivity, while overexpression of wild-type Armadillo or expression of a degradation-resistant Armadillo resulted in hypersensitivity. Neither underexpression nor overexpression of Armadillo resulted in observed dendritic morphological changes that could contribute to behavioral phenotypes observed. These results showed that focused manipulation of Armadillo expression within the nociceptors is sufficient to modulate baseline response in the nociceptors to a noxious stimulus and that these changes are not shown to be associated with a morphogenetic effect.
Network meta-analysis of immune-oncology monotherapy as first-line treatment for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer in patients with PD-L1 expression ⩾50%
Authors: Freemantle Nick , Xu Yingxin , Wilson Florence R. , Guyot Patricia , Chen Chieh-I , Keeping Sam , Konidaris Gerasimos , Chan Keith , Kuznik Andreas , Atsou Kokuvi , Glowienka Emily , Pouliot Jean-Francois , Gullo Giuseppe , Rietschel Petra
Published: June 2022

Background:

For patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and high (⩾50%) programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, effective first-line immune-oncology monotherapies with significant survival benefits are approved, cemiplimab being the most recent. In a phase III trial, cemiplimab demonstrated significantly improved overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) versus chemotherapy in patients with advanced NSCLC and PD-L1 ⩾50%. A systematic literature review and network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted to identify/compare the efficacy/safety of cemiplimab versus pembrolizumab or other immune-oncology monotherapies from randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) published from January 2010 to November 2020.

Methods:

Relevant RCTs were identified by searching databases and conference proceedings as per ISPOR, NICE, and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. NMA with time-varying hazard ratios (HRs) was performed for OS and PFS. Analyses were conducted for objective response rate (ORR) and safety/tolerability. Fixed-effect models were used due to limited evidence. Various sensitivity analyses were conducted to validate the base case analyses.

Results:

The feasibility assessment determined that EMPOWER-Lung 1, KEYNOTE-024, and KEYNOTE-042 trials were eligible. IMpower110 was excluded because an incompatible PD-L1 assay (SP142) was used for patient selection. For first-line advanced NSCLC with PD-L1 ⩾50%, cemiplimab was associated with statistically significant improvements in PFS [HR (95% credible interval [CrI]): 0.65 (0.50–0.86), 1–12 months] and ORR [odds ratio (OR) (95% CrI): 1.64 (1.04–2.62)], and comparable OS [HR (95% CrI): 0.77 (0.54–1.10), 1–12 months] versus pembrolizumab. There was no evidence of differences between cemiplimab and pembrolizumab for Grade 3–5 adverse events (AEs) [OR (95% CrI): 1.47 (0.83–2.60)], immune-mediated AEs [1.75 (0.33–7.49)], and all-cause discontinuation due to AEs [1.21 (0.58–2.61)].

Conclusions:

Considering the limitations of indirect treatment comparisons, in patients with advanced NSCLC and PD-L1 ⩾50%, cemiplimab monotherapy demonstrated significant improvements in PFS and ORR, comparable OS, and no evidence of differences in safety/tolerability versus pembrolizumab.
HIPAA and Access to Medical Information by Medical Examiner and Coroner Offices
Authors: Weedn Victor W.
Published: June 2022

Often, medical staff and sometimes their attorneys mistakenly believe that HIPAA prevents disclosure of medical records to medical examiner and coroner offices. Medical examiner and coroner government offices are not covered entities. Moreover, HIPAA specifically allows disclosure to law enforcement, public health, and medical examiner and coroners. However, state and Joint Commission requirements may further impact disclosures.
The quality of digital health software: Should we be concerned?
Authors: Kokol Peter , Vošner Helena Blažun , Kokol Marko , Završnik Jernej
Published: June 2022

The digitalization of healthcare fuelled by advances in technology and the increased prevalence of mobile smart devices and health-related internet of things can offer equitable access to expert-level healthcare globally. Growing demand for telemedicine, mobile health apps, and advanced data analytics have further established their role in a modern information society during the Covid-19 crisis. Digital health is, in essence, powered by software (DHSW), which has to operate in the specific digital health environment characteristics and is therefore highly and intrinsically complex and prone to software defects and faults. Given the lack of standardization regarding DHSW quality, we explored the available reviewed research on this crucial topic in this brief paper, using a synthetic thematic analysis approach. We assert that neither the volume, distribution nor scope of the DHSW quality research content is satisfactory, and significant research gaps exist. Based on the presented evidence, we can only conclude that we should be concerned and that the time to act is now to ensure that the unavoidable increase of usage and prevalence of DHSW will not – in the end – reduce the quality of care due to subpar software and software-based digital health systems.
Educational Games in Science Center: Experiences of Pre-Service Science Teachers
Authors: Laçin-Şimşek Canan , Öztuna-Kaplan Aysun , Sever Tülin
Published: June 2022

Educational games are fun teaching tools prepared in line with the aims of the lessons and facilitate the understanding of the subjects. Due to these features, they can be used in science centers to both discover exhibits and provide understanding of concepts. In this study, it was aimed to determine the opinions about the educational games prepared for the science center. For this purpose, the games prepared for Kocaeli Science Center were played and the opinions of the pre-service teachers who played the games were determined. The study is a phenomenological research in which the opinions of the participants are investigated. The study group consists of 30 pre-service science teachers. The participants played the games prepared in relation to science lesson subjects in groups. After playing the games, their opinions on playing in the science center, the effect of playing in the science center on learning, discovering the science center and exhibits were asked based on their experiences. The data were collected through a form with open-ended questions and observations. The collected data were analyzed using the qualitative content analysis. The pre-service teachers emphasized that they understood the subjects in the exhibits better. They stated that the science center visits supported by educational games will positively affect learning. Based on the results of the research, it can be said that educational games should be among the educational tools that can be used to discover the science center and to understand the exhibits.
Exigency-driven Academic Motivation of Learners: A Comparative Analysis During COVID and pre-COVID Scenario
Authors: Choudhury Snigdha
Published: June 2022

Recent studies have addressed the technological and cognitive motivational factors influencing e-learning. However, research investigating the comparative analysis of psychological factors that influence the academic motivation of e-learners and their interconnection has not been reported. Considering the array of psychological challenges faced by the student community in the current pandemic, a detailed look at the sudden transition and its impact on the academic motivation of learners is imperative. This paper examines the impact of psychological factors on the academic motivation of learners in pre-COVID and COVID times. Further, the significant difference in academic motivation during the period is also studied. A structural equation modelling (SEM) analyses the data obtained in two phases—phase 1 (Pre-COVID) and phase 2 (COVID)—from executive business management students of India. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that looks at the academic motivation of learners using three different theoretical lenses. Findings suggest that all psychological factors influence the academic motivation moderately/strongly during both the phases, except attention during pre-COVID. However, increased focus on attention and need for relatedness is suggestive during exigencies like COVID. The validity of second order measures, that is, extrinsic motivation, intrinsic motivation and amotivation, fortifies the findings and makes a substantial contribution to the body of the knowledge in e-learning motivation. The study details the research and practical implications of the findings.
S.U.G.A.R: A Case to Outline Tactics for the Prevention of Alpelisib-Induced Hyperglycemia
Authors: Thomas Katharine , Germain Monique , Loch Michelle M.
Published: June 2022

Postmenopausal patients with metastatic breast cancer (mBC) may live years with their disease on therapies with minimal toxicities but they will eventually progress on first-line therapy. For those eligible for second-line therapy, PIK3CA mutation testing is recommended in estrogen receptor–positive, her2-negative disease. If present, alpelisib, a PI3K inhibitor, has been shown to improve progression-free survival. Hyperglycemia is a common side effect of alpelisib. We describe a case of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) necessitating treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU) in a woman with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) started on alpelisib. A 76-year-old female with diet-controlled T2DM and mBC was placed on second-line treatment with alpelisib after progression on first-line therapy. After more than 2 weeks of treatment, the patient presented to the emergency department with nausea and vomiting. Lab results showed DKA and she was admitted to the ICU for further management. This case highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to caring for patients who are started on a PI3K inhibitor. We propose 5 guidelines to prevent hyperglycemia in those started on apelisib: (1) strict criteria for initiating alpelisib, (2) understand the steps needed to prevent hyperglycemia, (3) get help from a multidisciplinary team, (4) act immediately when hyperglycemia is noted, and (5) record blood glucose values. By implementing these steps, we hope to prevent critical hyperglycemic episodes in vulnerable patients on alpelisib.
Sternocleidomastoid Tendon as a Consistent Landmark for Identifying the Spinal Accessory Nerve: A Case Series
Authors: McCann Adam , Boeckermann Lauren , Jawad Basit A. , Moreno Kattia , Patil Yash
Published: June 2022

Objective

We propose a standardized approach of using the tendon of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle to locate the spinal accessory nerve (SAN) in neck dissection.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional anatomic study.

Setting

Tertiary academic medical center.

Methods

Adult patients aged ≥18 years undergoing primary neck dissection for head and neck cancer were included. Anatomic measurements included the length of the SCM tendon, the distance from the mastoid tip to the entrance of the SAN into the SCM, the distance from the SAN to the distal edge of the SCM tendon, and the perpendicular distance from the anterior edge of the SCM to the SAN. Five cadaveric specimens also underwent bilateral modified radical neck dissections with the same anatomic measurements taken.

Results

Twenty‐two living subjects and 5 cadavers were included. No statistical correlation was noted between patient demographics and any measurement. The mean (SD) length of the SCM tendon was 63.7 mm (11.8) in living subjects and 61.5 mm (10.4) in cadaveric specimens. The average distance from the mastoid tip to the entrance of SAN into the SCM was 51.6 mm (12.2) in living subjects and 51.6 mm (7.1) in cadaveric subjects. The distance of the SAN insertion into the SCM muscle from the anterior edge was 8.9 mm (3.4) in living subjects and 16.2 mm (7.2) in cadaver specimens. Laterality was compared in the cadaveric specimens; there was no statistically significant difference in any of the measurements between sides.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the SCM tendon to be a reliable and safe surgical landmark to identify and preserve the SAN during neck dissection.
Public Perception of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines Among Psoriasis Patients in Social Media: Content, Sentiment, and Engagement Analysis
Authors: Yee Danielle , Khan Sabrina , Zagona-Prizio Caterina , Maynard Nicole , Reddy Rasika , Khan Samiya , Mehta Manan , Armstrong April W.
Published: June 2022

Background

Psoriasis patients may seek information about the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine and their disease from social media platforms. Analyses of social media interactions may help guide dermatologists’ educational efforts during this pandemic.

Objectives

This study analyzes social media interactions among patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis regarding the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine to determine the misinformation circulating and the apprehension to receiving the vaccine.

Methods

Publicly accessible Facebook and Reddit groups regarding psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis were identified. Posts uploaded between March 1, 2021 and July 31, 2021 which contained information about the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine were extracted. First-order themes, sub-themes, sentiment scores and engagement scores were assigned to each post.

Results

345 posts within the first-order theme of vaccination decision and 1379 posts within the first-order theme of vaccine reaction were analyzed. Within vaccination decision, common sub-themes for refusing the vaccine include fear of psoriasis flare up, vaccine is experimental, vaccine is unnecessary, vaccine is dangerous, and concern for reaction/vaccine efficacy while on psoriasis medications. 41.4% of posts contained positive sentiment; whereas, 38.3% contained negative sentiment. Within vaccine reaction, common sub-themes identified were no change to psoriasis, skin/joint flare up, skin flare up attributed specifically to stopping psoriasis medications, skin/joint improvement, and skin flare up but vaccine was worth it. 77.8% of posts contained positive sentiment; whereas, 6.2% contained negative sentiment.

Conclusions

Our study identified common SARS-CoV-2 vaccine concerns within the psoriasis community which should be used to guide educational efforts.
The Dark Side of Projects: Dimensionality, Research Methods, and Agenda
Authors: Locatelli Giorgio , Konstantinou Efrosyni , Geraldi Joana , Sainati Tristano
Published: June 2022

This article presents the dark side of projects, engaging project scholars and practitioners in discussions about sensitive, confusing, uncomfortable, challenging, and questionable phenomena, such as corruption, sexism, money laundering, modern slavery, waste of resources, and organizational politics. The dark side impacts people’s lives, questioning the legitimacy of projects as forms of work organization and the political and ideological systems shaping the projects’ context. Project scholars and practitioners need to be aware of the harm the dark side of projects may promote. Ultimately, we aim to build awareness, promote research, and help sensitize our community to the dark side of projects.
Nafeasite, NaFe3+(AsO3OH)2⋅H2O, a new framework arsenate from the Torrecillas mine, Iquique Province, Chile
Authors: Kampf Anthony R. , Schlüter Jochen , Malcherek Thomas , Paulenz Bianca , Pohl Dieter , Ma Chi , Dini Maurizio , Molina Donoso Arturo A.
Published: June 2022

The new mineral nafeasite (IMA2021-103), NaFe3+(AsO3OH)2⋅H2O, was found at the Torrecillas mine, Iquique Province, Chile, where it is a secondary alteration phase associated with anhydrite, gypsum, halite, lavendulan, magnesiokoritnigite and natrojarosite. Nafeasite occurs in tightly intergrown aggregates of equant crystals. Crystals are light to medium pink and transparent, with vitreous lustre and white streak. The Mohs hardness is ~2½. The density is 3.23(2) g⋅cm–3. Optically, nafeasite is biaxial (+), with α = 1.679(3), β = 1.682(3), γ = 1.730(5) (white light); 2V = 27(2)°; and slight r < v dispersion. The empirical formulae of the holotype and cotype (based on 9 O atoms per formula unit) are Na0.98K0.02Fe0.92Al0.07As2.00O9H4.01 and Na0.97Fe0.68Al0.33As2.00O9H4.01, respectively. Nafeasite is monoclinic, space group C2, with cell parameters: a = 18.6876(16), b = 8.6769(7), c = 14.8100(10) Å, β = 105.238 (5)°, V = 2317.0(3) Å3 and Z = 12. The structure, refined to R1 = 5.03% for 5979 Io > 2σI reflections, is based on a loose 3D framework of alternating AsO3OH tetrahedra and Fe3+O6 octahedra.
The oral ferroportin inhibitor vamifeport improves hemodynamics in a mouse model of sickle cell disease
Authors: Nyffenegger Naja , Zennadi Rahima , Kalleda Natarajaswamy , Flace Anna , Ingoglia Giada , Buzzi Raphael M. , Doucerain Cédric , Buehler Paul W. , Schaer Dominik J. , Dürrenberger Franz , Manolova Vania
Published: June 2022

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited hemolytic anemia caused by a single point mutation in the β-globin gene of hemoglobin that leads to synthesis of sickle hemoglobin (HbS) in red blood cells (RBCs). HbS polymerizes in hypoxic conditions, leading to intravascular hemolysis, release of free hemoglobin and heme, and increased adhesion of blood cells to the endothelial vasculature, which causes painful vaso-occlusion and organ damage. HbS polymerization kinetics are strongly dependent on the intracellular HbS concentration; a relatively small reduction in cellular HbS concentration may prevent HbS polymerization and its sequelae. We hypothesized that iron restriction via blocking ferroportin, the unique iron transporter in mammals, might reduce HbS concentration in RBCs, thereby decreasing hemolysis, improving blood flow, and preventing vaso-occlusive events. Indeed, vamifeport (also known as VIT-2763), a clinical-stage oral ferroportin inhibitor, reduced hemolysis markers in the Townes model of SCD. The RBC indices of vamifeport-treated male and female Townes mice exhibited changes attributable to iron-restricted erythropoiesis: decreased corpuscular hemoglobin concentration mean and mean corpuscular volume, as well as increased hypochromic and microcytic RBC fractions. Furthermore, vamifeport reduced plasma soluble VCAM-1 concentrations, which suggests lowered vascular inflammation. Accordingly, intravital video microscopy of fluorescently labeled blood cells in the microvasculature of Townes mice treated with vamifeport revealed diminished adhesion to the endothelium and improved hemodynamics. These preclinical data provide a strong proof-of-concept for vamifeport in the Townes model of SCD and support further development of this compound as a potential novel therapy in SCD.
TET2-mutant clonal hematopoiesis and risk of gout
Authors: Agrawal Mridul , Niroula Abhishek , Cunin Pierre , McConkey Marie , Shkolnik Veronica , Kim Peter G. , Wong Waihay J. , Weeks Lachelle D. , Lin Amy E. , Miller Peter G. , Gibson Christopher J. , Sekar Aswin , Schaefer Inga-Marie , Neuberg Donna , Stone Richard M. , Bick Alexander G. , Uddin Md Mesbah , Griffin Gabriel K. , Jaiswal Siddhartha , Natarajan Pradeep , Nigrovic Peter A. , Rao Deepak A. , Ebert Benjamin L.
Published: June 2022

Gout is a common inflammatory arthritis caused by precipitation of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals in individuals with hyperuricemia. Acute flares are accompanied by secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) is an age-related condition predisposing to hematologic cancers and cardiovascular disease. CHIP is associated with elevated IL-1β, thus we investigated CHIP as a risk factor for gout. To test the clinical association between CHIP and gout, we analyzed whole exome sequencing data from 177 824 individuals in the MGB Biobank (MGBB) and UK Biobank (UKB). In both cohorts, the frequency of gout was higher among individuals with CHIP than without CHIP (MGBB, CHIP with variant allele fraction [VAF] ≥2%: odds ratio [OR], 1.69; 95% CI, 1.09-2.61; P = .0189; UKB, CHIP with VAF ≥10%: OR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.05-1.50; P = .0133). Moreover, individuals with CHIP and a VAF ≥10% had an increased risk of incident gout (UKB: hazard ratio [HR], 1.28; 95% CI, 1.06-1.55; P = .0107). In murine models of gout pathogenesis, animals with Tet2 knockout hematopoietic cells had exaggerated IL-1β secretion and paw edema upon administration of MSU crystals. Tet2 knockout macrophages elaborated higher levels of IL-1β in response to MSU crystals in vitro, which was ameliorated through genetic and pharmacologic Nlrp3 inflammasome inhibition. These studies show that TET2-mutant CHIP is associated with an increased risk of gout in humans and that MSU crystals lead to elevated IL-1β levels in Tet2 knockout murine models. We identify CHIP as an amplifier of NLRP3-dependent inflammatory responses to MSU crystals in patients with gout.
Insulin-inducible THRSP maintains mitochondrial function and regulates sphingolipid metabolism in human adipocytes
Authors: Ahonen Maria A. , Höring Marcus , Nguyen Van Dien , Qadri Sami , Taskinen Juuso H. , Nagaraj Meghana , Wabitsch Martin , Fischer-Posovszky Pamela , Zhou You , Liebisch Gerhard , Haridas P. A. Nidhina , Yki-Järvinen Hannele , Olkkonen Vesa M.
Published: June 2022

Background

Thyroid hormone responsive protein (THRSP) is a lipogenic nuclear protein that is highly expressed in murine adipose tissue, but its role in humans remains unknown.

Methods

We characterized the insulin regulation of THRSP in vivo in human adipose tissue biopsies and in vitro in Simpson-Golabi-Behmel syndrome (SGBS) adipocytes. To this end, we measured whole-body insulin sensitivity using the euglycemic insulin clamp technique in 36 subjects [age 40 ± 9 years, body mass index (BMI) 27.3 ± 5.0 kg/m2]. Adipose tissue biopsies were obtained at baseline and after 180 and 360 min of euglycemic hyperinsulinemia for measurement of THRSP mRNA concentrations. To identify functions affected by THRSP, we performed a transcriptomic analysis of THRSP-silenced SGBS adipocytes. Mitochondrial function was assessed by measuring mitochondrial respiration as well as oxidation and uptake of radiolabeled oleate and glucose. Lipid composition in THRSP silencing was studied by lipidomic analysis.

Results

We found insulin to increase THRSP mRNA expression 5- and 8-fold after 180 and 360 min of in vivo euglycemic hyperinsulinemia. This induction was impaired in insulin-resistant subjects, and THRSP expression was closely correlated with whole-body insulin sensitivity. In vitro, insulin increased both THRSP mRNA and protein concentrations in SGBS adipocytes in a phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-dependent manner. A transcriptomic analysis of THRSP-silenced adipocytes showed alterations in mitochondrial functions and pathways of lipid metabolism, which were corroborated by significantly impaired mitochondrial respiration and fatty acid oxidation. A lipidomic analysis revealed decreased hexosylceramide concentrations, supported by the transcript concentrations of enzymes regulating sphingolipid metabolism.

Conclusions

THRSP is regulated by insulin both in vivo in human adipose tissue and in vitro in adipocytes, and its expression is downregulated by insulin resistance. As THRSP silencing decreases mitochondrial respiration and fatty acid oxidation, its downregulation in human adipose tissue could contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, disturbed sphingolipid metabolism could add to metabolic dysfunction in obese adipose tissue.
A Robotic System with Robust Remote Center of Motion Constraint for Endometrial Regeneration Surgery
Authors: Li Jianhua , Wang Chongyang , Wang Zhenxing , Zheng Xiong , Wang Zhidong , Tan Jichun , Liu Hao
Published: June 2022

Surgical robots have been widely used in different procedures to improve and facilitate the surgery. However, there is no robot designed for endometrial regeneration surgery, which is a new therapy for restoring fertility in women using stem cells. Endometrial regeneration surgery requires processing of the endometrium and transplantation of stem cells with minimal trauma to the uterus. In this paper, we introduce a surgical robotic system that consists of a dexterous hysteroscope, supporting arm, and additional novel instruments to facilitate the operation and decrease trauma to the uterus. Remote center of motion (RCM) constraint is required to protect the cervix of the uterus. First, the supporting arm and hysteroscope are controlled separately in kinematics to ensure that the RCM constraint and hysteroscope’s shape and posture are predictable. Then, a task-decoupled method is used to improve the robustness of the RCM constraint. Experiments confirm that the proposed method is more robust and achieves higher RCM accuracy. In addition, the master-slave control of a robot with RCM constraint is also verified. This study proposes the realization of a robot with robust RCM control for endometrial regeneration surgery.
Modified Multifidelity Surrogate Model Based on Radial Basis Function with Adaptive Scale Factor
Authors: Liu Yin , Wang Shuo , Zhou Qi , Lv Liye , Sun Wei , Song Xueguan
Published: June 2022

Multifidelity surrogates (MFSs) replace computationally intensive models by synergistically combining information from different fidelity data with a significant improvement in modeling efficiency. In this paper, a modified MFS (MMFS) model based on a radial basis function (RBF) is proposed, in which two fidelities of information can be analyzed by adaptively obtaining the scale factor. In the MMFS, an RBF was employed to establish the low-fidelity model. The correlation matrix of the high-fidelity samples and corresponding low-fidelity responses were integrated into an expansion matrix to determine the scaling function parameters. The shape parameters of the basis function were optimized by minimizing the leave-one-out cross-validation error of the high-fidelity sample points. The performance of the MMFS was compared with those of other MFS models (MFS-RBF and cooperative RBF) and single-fidelity RBF using four benchmark test functions, by which the impacts of different high-fidelity sample sizes on the prediction accuracy were also analyzed. The sensitivity of the MMFS model to the randomness of the design of experiments (DoE) was investigated by repeating sampling plans with 20 different DoEs. Stress analysis of the steel plate is presented to highlight the prediction ability of the proposed MMFS model. This research proposes a new multifidelity modeling method that can fully use two fidelity sample sets, rapidly calculate model parameters, and exhibit good prediction accuracy and robustness.
Temporal stability of parent-reported behavior problems in late talkers over 2 years: a prospective case-control study from toddlerhood to preschool age
Authors: Lu Hsin-Hui , Tsai Jeng-Dau , Tsao Feng-Ming
Published: June 2022

Background

Late talking (LT) in toddlers is a risk factor for language weakness that may interfere with the development of using language to regulate behavior and emotion and contribute to the development of behavior problems from early childhood. This study examined the temporal stability of parent-reported behavior problems among Mandarin-speaking LT toddlers from ages 2 to 4 in Taiwan.

Methods

Thirty-one LT and 31 typical language development (TLD) toddlers were assessed for their vocabulary production at age 2 with the Words and Sentences Forms of the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Developmental Inventories Toddler Form (Taiwan version). Additionally, participants’ receptive and expressive language abilities were assessed using the receptive and expressive language subscales of the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition. At age 4, the Child Language Disorder Scale-Revised was applied and included the two core subtests for auditory comprehension and expressive communication. At ages 2 and 4 years, behavior problems were assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist.

Results

There was a higher percentage of participants with persistent behavior problems among LT toddlers than among TLD toddlers. Moreover, toddlers with larger vocabularies were less likely to develop withdrawal behaviors by preschool age.

Conclusions

This study supported the temporal stability of parent-reported behavior problems among LT toddlers across early childhood. Early identification of and intervention for behavior problems associated with LT in toddlerhood is essential to alleviate their behavior problems later in preschool years.
Identification of the key flavonoid and lipid synthesis proteins in the pulp of two sea buckthorn cultivars at different developmental stages
Authors: Du Wei , Ding Jian , Lu Shunguang , Wen Xiufeng , Hu Jianzhong , Ruan Chengjiang
Published: June 2022

Background

Sea buckthorn is an economically important woody plant for desertification control and water soil conservation. Its berry pulp is rich in flavonoids and unsaturated fatty acids. Cultivars containing high oil and flavonoid contents have higher economic value and will increase in the planting area. However, the cause of the differences in oil and flavonoid contents among cultivars is still unclear. The influence of key enzymes in the lipid and flavonoid synthesis pathways on their content needs to be explored and clarified.

Results

The flavonoid content in XE (Xin’e 3) was 54% higher than that in SJ (Suiji 1). Rutin was the main flavonoid in sea buckthorn pulp, and the differences in the rutin content could cause flavonoid differences between the two cultivars. The oil content of XE was 31.58% higher than that of SJ, and the difference in oil content was highest at 50–70 DAF. High-throughput proteomics was used to quantify key enzymes of flavonoid and lipid synthesis pathways in two cultivars at three developmental stages. By functional annotation and KEGG analysis, 41 key enzymes related to phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis, flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, fatty acid biosynthesis and TAG biosynthesis were quantified. CHS, F3H, ANS, fabD, FATA, FAB2, LPIN and plcC showed significant differences between the two cultivars. In addition, we quantified 6 oleosins. With the exception of a 16 kDa oleosin, the other oleosins in the two cultivars were positively correlated with oil content.

Conclusions

In the flavonoid synthesis pathway, CHS and F3H were the main enzymes responsible for the difference in flavonoid content between the two cultivars. In the lipid synthesis pathway, LPIN, plcC and MGD were the main enzymes with different contents in the middle to late stages. Higher contents of LPIN and plcC in XE than in SJ could cause DAG to generate TAG from PC, since the difference in DGAT between the two cultivars was not significant. Investigating the causes of flavonoid and oil content differences among different cultivars from the perspective of proteomics, could provide a basis for understanding the regulatory mechanism of flavonoids and lipid synthesis in sea buckthorn pulp.