bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of intermediate stage varus ankle arthritis treated by supramalleolar osteotomy
Authors: Lai Liangpeng , Wang Yan , Wu Yong , Sun Ning , Li Ying , Du Hui , Gong Xiaofeng
Published: October 2022

Objective

To evaluate the outcomes of intermediate stage varus ankle arthritis treated by supramalleolar osteotomy.

Methods

Clinical data of 57 patients with varus arthritis who underwent supramalleolar osteotomy at our hospital between March 2018 and December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were grouped according to the Takakura classification, and assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score and the Visual Analogue Score (VAS). Tibial anterior surface (TAS) angle and talar tilt (TT) angle were measured at the weight-bearing anteroposterior view. Tibial lateral surface (TLS) angle was measured at the weight-bearing lateral view. The differences in the above indicators of patients with different stages of varus ankle arthritis before and after treatment were analyzed.

Results

The patients were followed up for an average of 31.9 ± 5.8 months. Upon the last follow-up, the AOFAS score was 84.1 ± 9.7, the VAS score 2.2 ± 1.3, the TAS angle 92.4 ± 5.5°, the TLS angle 79.3 ± 5.3°, and the TT angle 3.7±3.4°, which were significantly different from the preoperative levels (64.2 ± 14.6, 4.5 ± 1.8, 80.5 ± 6.7°, 74.9 ± 4.6°, and 5.2 ± 64.1°, respectively) ( p < .05). There were significant differences in AOFAS and VAS scores before surgery and upon the last follow-up in each group ( p < .05). The postoperative TT angle was significantly different from the preoperative level in stage IIIb patients ( p = .003).

Conclusions

Supramalleolar osteotomy achieved good short-to mid-term clinical outcomes for intermediate stage varus ankle arthritis. This procedure could significantly improve the TAS and TLS angles of the patients at any stage and the TT angle of stage IIIb patients.
Development and Validation of a Novel Nomogram to Predict Hypoalbuminemia among Patients with Stroke in the Neurocritical Care Unit
Authors: Li Junzhuo , Liu Guangwei , Li Feng , Yang Wen , Zhang Ruixin , Yang Jiajia
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to investigate hypoalbuminemia-related factors in patients with stroke in the neurocritical care unit (NCU) and to establish a nomogram model for hypoalbuminemia prediction. Data from 902 patients hospitalized for stroke in the NCU who had normal albumin levels on admission from March 2018 to December 2020 were analyzed. Logistic regression was used to identify the risk factors associated with hypoalbuminemia. A novel nomogram prediction model for hypoalbuminemia was constructed, and it was validated in an independent set ( n = 233). The nomogram incorporated seven risk factors, including age, high comorbidity, mechanical ventilation, feeding routes, total protein, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and fibrinogen levels, and its area under the curve for predicting hypoalbuminemia in the developmental set and validation set were 0.856 and 0.870, respectively. The novel nomogram facilitates risk prediction of hypoalbuminemia among patients with stroke in the NCU, which might be useful for selecting treatment strategies and management.
Electoral Institutions and Identity Based Clientelism in Jordan
Authors: Kao Kristen
Published: October 2022

In contexts where social cleavages are universally salient, how can political alliances across social identity groups be forged? A wealth of research examines the effects of either electoral rules or social identity on electoral behavior, but the interplay between these two factors is understudied. This article leverages original datasets of tribal voting coalitions, parliamentarian constituent casework logs, and a national survey in Jordan to demonstrate how institutions interact with social identity to shape distributive politics. Within single non-transferable vote districts (SNTV), representatives win their seats based on tribal support and practice tribal favoritism in service provision. On the contrary, elected officials in single member plurality districts (SMDs) cobble together more diverse coalitions to win their seats and distribute state benefits more evenly between in-group and out-group members. Bolstering these findings, data from a 2014 nationwide survey show that a history of having tribal connections with parliamentarians’ augments voter turnout in SNTV districts, whereas it has no relationship with voter turnout in SMDs. This article offers an understanding of why politicians build electoral coalitions and distribute clientelistic benefits within or across social identity groups with important implications for the consideration of electoral institutional design in developing countries.
Naturing With Big Data: How Writing Creation Myths Can Matter
Authors: An Mihye
Published: October 2022

This article draws on Barad’s posthumanist ethics of mattering as an alternative methodology to qualitative research with big data while foregrounding writing as mattering. Big data is outlined as linguistic matter to be understood in relational materiality and subjectivity. I then discuss writing in light of mattering from multiple angles. To illustrate, I present an example of a course in which students wrote their own creation myths in an affirmative manner by navigating a corpus of 80 existing ones. The final section sketches what an ethics of naturing with big data might be about.
Carbon dioxide automated digital subtraction angiography for endovascular arteriovenous fistulas creation
Authors: Tozzi Matteo , Franchin Marco , Fontana Federico , Piacentino Filippo , Veneziano Angela , Muscato Paola , Leati Giovanni , Piffaretti Gabriele
Published: October 2022

Recent literature shows how residual renal function (RKF), defined as the urinary clearance of urea and creatinine, is associated with a lower mortality risk in HD patients. The use of non-nephrotoxic contrast media during radiological procedure, may be useful for preservation of RKF in patients with chronic kidney disease not yet in haemodialysis. We describe the case of a 51-year-old male suffering from chronic kidney disease from 2018, due to a right nephrectomy for an adenocarcinoma, who was considered for an endovascular arteriovenous fistula (endoAVF) creation (WavelinQ endoAVF System, Becton Dickinson, Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, US), using Carbon Dioxide as contrast media instead of conventional iodinated ones, with optimal results. CO2 DSA permits to well recognize the patency of target vein, its connection to the perforator vein and finally the endoAVF creation without requiring supplemental iodate contrast medium. We propose, CO2 automated digital subtraction angiography (DSA) as a safer technique that could be substitutive of the standard iodinated ones, in the creation of endo AVF.
Understanding EFL teachers’ wellbeing: An activity theoretic perspective
Authors: Ebadijalal Marjan , Moradkhani Shahab
Published: October 2022

Teaching, as a physically, emotionally, and socially demanding profession, subjects teachers to multiple sources of stress and challenge, jeopardizing their wellbeing and adversely affecting their performance in turn. English language teaching is no exception to this unwelcome trend. The study of the factors affecting English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers’ perceived wellbeing in the workplace environment allows us insight into how teacher wellbeing can be enhanced and maintained in the face of challenges. Accordingly, the present study aimed to investigate Iranian EFL teachers’ perceived wellbeing in the workplace environment from an activity theoretic perspective. To that end, the wellbeing of 15 in-service EFL teachers was examined. Data were collected through a narrative frame and semi-structured individual interview and were thematically analysed using NVivo 12 to cast light on the factors that boost or mitigate the participants’ wellbeing. Findings demonstrated how six factors – namely learners, colleagues, institutional authorities, institutional rules and regulations, workload, and the status of EFL teachers – define the participants’ wellbeing. The factors are mapped onto the six key elements of activity theory to display how individual and collective dimensions of educational milieus interact in molding teachers’ wellbeing. Pedagogical implications and avenues for future research are outlined.
Shaping the road to reentry: Organizational variation and narrative labor in the penal voluntary sector
Authors: Quinn Kaitlyn , Goodman Philip
Published: October 2022

Financial austerity, welfare state retrenchment, and the movement towards evidence-based interventions have intensified the pressures on penal voluntary sector (PVS) organizations. The result is an increasingly competitive field of social service provision in which organizations must differentiate themselves in the struggle over funding, contracts, symbolic authority, and potential clients. We explore this struggle by examining the distinct roads to reentry constructed at four PVS organizations in Ontario, Canada. Our analysis initiates a dialogue between individual narratives and organizational discourses, contending that the road to reentry is coauthored among organizations and criminalized individuals—albeit on unequal terms. Our findings reveal that there are significant pressures for criminalized individuals to perform narrative labor to align themselves with organizational understandings of reentry. Such pressures include: the denial of services or social assistance payments, threats of being returned to prison for “inadequate” participation in rehabilitation, and risks of not being considered for coveted “professional ex” positions at PVS organizations. In light of these empirical findings, we also offer a conceptual reflection on the challenges criminalized individuals likely face accessing services from multiple organizations with differing roads to reentry, suggesting that navigating these diverse roads not only requires narrative labor, but also narrative dexterity.
An Extraordinary EEG Phenomenon Misdiagnosed as Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus: Frequent Subclinical Periodic Discharges Terminated by Sudden Auditory Stimuli
Authors: Oguz-Akarsu Emel , Salman Barıs , Ugur-Iseri Sibel , Baykan Betul
Published: October 2022

Triggering or modulation of seizures and rhythmic EEG patterns by external stimuli are well-known with the most common clinical appearance of stimulus induced periodic discharges (SI- PDs) patterns which are elicited by physical or auditory stimulation. However, stimulus terminated periodic discharges (ST-PDs), in other words, the periodic discharges stopped by external stimuli is an extremely rare electroencephalographic (EEG) finding. We report a 20-year-old woman with a marked psychomotor developmental delay of unknown cause, with frequent EEG patterns of long-lasting (10–60 s) bilateral paroxysmal high-voltage slow waves with occasional spikes, misdiagnosed as non-convulsive status epilepticus. However, no apparent clinical change was noted by the technician, physician, and her mother during these subclinical ictal EEG recordings. Interestingly, however, these epileptic discharges were abruptly interrupted by sudden verbal stimuli on the EEG, repeatedly. Whole exome sequencing and genotyping were performed to investigate possible genetic etiology that revealed two sequence variants, a frameshift variant of CACNA1H NM_021098.3:c.1701del;p.Asp568ThrfsTer15 and a missense variant of GRIN2D NM_000836.4:c.1783A>T;p.Thr595Ser as well as a copy number variant part deletion of ATP6V1A gene arr [hg19]3q13.31(113,499,698_113,543,081)x1 as possible pathogenic candidates. The subclinical periodic discharges terminated by verbal stimuli, is a very rare manifestation and needs particular attention. External modulation of ictal-appearing EEG patterns is important to identify stimulus terminated EEG patterns.
If You Build it Will They Come? The Mediating Roles of Human Resource and Program Capacities
Authors: Wilson Kevin E. S. , Wood Laura , Snelgrove Ryan
Published: October 2022

The amenity arms race among post-secondary institutions is driving the new development or expansion of campus recreation facilities. However, investing in new and larger campus recreation facilities may not necessarily translate into usage and ultimately provide the associated benefits to students. This study explored whether human resource capacity and program capacity are mechanisms that help explain the conditions under which facility capacity translates into facility usage. Secondary data were obtained from NIRSA's research and assessment initiative from post-secondary institutions in the United States ( n = 103) that contained measures of relevance to this study. Regression analyses with bootstrapping were conducted to examine the hypothesized relationships including mediation. Results identified that an indirect only mediation model (full mediation) was present, such that greater facility capacity translates into increased facility usage through human resource capacity and program capacity. Therefore, recreation professionals and programs are indicated as pivotal to making the most of facility capacity.
A Meta-Analysis of Biomechanical Studies for Suture Button Pullout Versus Suture Anchor Repair of Flexor Digitorum Profundus Avulsions
Authors: Imbergamo Casey M. , Sequeira Sean B. , Miles Megan R. , Means Kenneth R.
Published: October 2022

Background:

There is no current consensus on which of the two most common flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) avulsion repair constructs, via suture button pullout (SBP) or suture anchor (SA), is biomechanically superior. Our purpose was to compare these repair methods via systematic review and meta-analysis of available literature.

Methods:

We performed a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-guided systematic review of PubMed, the Cochrane library, and Embase. We only included studies with direct comparison data for both techniques. We performed a meta-analysis comparing the reported biomechanical results using pooled data for initial repair stiffness (N/mm), gap formation (mm), and ultimate load to failure (N).

Results:

Seven studies met inclusion criteria, including a total of 201 cadaveric specimens. Four studies reported initial construct stiffness, with pooled analysis showing superiority for SA repairs ( P < .05). Four studies evaluated gap formation, with pooled analysis demonstrating less gapping with SA repair ( P < .05). Mean gap formation was 2.4 (±1.4) mm and 3.9 (±2.0) mm for the SA and SBP groups, respectively. All 7 studies assessed load to failure, with pooled analysis revealing no significant difference between groups ( P > .05). We lacked statistical power to determine equivalence between techniques for load to failure. Both groups had failure values significantly lower than the native FDP.

Conclusions:

Via meta-analysis, there was increased initial construct stiffness and less gap formation for SA compared to SBP for FDP reinsertion, with no significant differences for ultimate failure load.
Trends and factors associated with influenza vaccination in subjects with asthma: analysis of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2010 and 2019
Authors: Kim Sang Hyuk , Park Hye Yun , Jung Hwasik , Zo Sungmin , Kim Saerom , Park Dong Won , Park Tai Sun , Moon Ji-Yong , Kim Sang-Heon , Kim Tae-Hyung , Sohn Jang Won , Yoon Ho Joo , Lee Hyun , Shin Sun Hye
Published: October 2022

Background:

Despite the importance of influenza vaccination, its rates in subjects with asthma are suboptimal, especially in the young population.

Methods:

Among 72,843 adults aged ⩾18 years from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2010 and 2019, 1643 with asthma were included. The yearly trends and factors associated with influenza vaccination were analyzed in subjects with asthma. In addition, stratified analyses were performed by age group (<65 versus ⩾65 years).

Results:

During the study period, the overall influenza vaccination rate among subjects with asthma fluctuated from 51.0% to 64.3%, with a consistently higher vaccination rate in elderly subjects than in young subjects. Among young subjects with asthma, factors positively associated with influenza vaccination were female sex [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.66, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.11–2.49], current asthma being treated (aOR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.14–2.50), history of pulmonary tuberculosis (aOR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.04–3.87), and dyslipidemia (aOR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.05–3.30). However, unmarried subjects showed an inverse relationship (aOR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.34–0.75). In elderly subjects, unmarried status (aOR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.29–0.94), being underweight (aOR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.09–0.97), and having a low income (aOR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.18–0.97) were factors negatively associated with influenza vaccination.

Conclusion:

In the last 10 years, influenza vaccination rates have still been insufficient in subjects with asthma, particularly in young subjects. Considering the factors that are influencing the vaccination rates of young subjects, public policies to increase influenza vaccination rates in subjects with asthma need to be established urgently.
Queer urban theories
Authors: Richardson Lizzie
Published: October 2022

Glitch epistemologies for computational cities provide a useful and important extension of the previous work of Elwood and Leszczynski, decentring the usual suspects that are the focus for (digital) urban critique (e.g. ‘smart cities’, ‘platforms’) by drawing on queer theory and illustrating what this might bring to approaching cities. It is this topic that this commentary will address, first by discussing what is meant by such a queer approach to the urban with glitch epistemologies, and second by considering how this approach can pose questions concerning the temporalities of urban change.
Factors affecting resting heart rate in free-living healthy humans
Authors: Alexander Jason , Sovakova Magdalena , Rena Graham
Published: October 2022

Resting heart rate (RHR) is a potential cardiac disease prevention target because it is strongly associated with cardiac morbidity and mortality, yet community-based monitoring of RHR remains in its infancy. Recently, smartwatches have become available enabling measurement with non-intrusive devices of relationships between RHR and other factors outside the laboratory. We carried out cross-sectional observational retrospective analysis of anonymised smartwatch data obtained by participants in their everyday lives between 2016 and 2021 in a single centre community-based study, using convenience sampling. Between participants, overall RHR means strongly or moderately inversely correlated with means of stand hour (SH), calculated VO2 max, walking and running distance (WRD), steps and flights climbed (FC). Within participants, in quarterly averages, RHR inversely correlated moderately with frequency of standing (stand hours, SH). RHR also inversely correlated moderately with heart rate variability (HRV), consistent with the known impact of increasing parasympathetic dominance on RHR. These within participant correlations suggest that RHR might be modifiable by changes in SH and HRV within individuals. Indeed, analysing paired daily data, relationships between these three categories were dose dependent. 15 SH versus 5 SH associated with a reduction of 10 beats per minute in mean RHR and increase in mean HRV of 14 ms, respectively. We conclude that within individuals, RHR inversely correlates with frequency of standing and HRV, with paired daily measurements indicating effects are mediated that day. RHR also inversely correlates with fitness and activity measures between participants. Our findings provide initial community-based observational evidence supporting further prospective interventional investigation of frequency of standing or HRV modifiers, alongside more familiar interventions, for cardiac disease prevention.
A Novel Mutation in Lafora Disease and Update on Pathophysiology and Future Treatments
Authors: Nordli Douglas R. , Rao Chethan K. , Delgado-Escueta Antonio V. , Galan Fernando
Published: October 2022

Lafora disease is a rare refractory epilepsy that results in death. This report highlights two cases of lafora disease and introduces a novel mutation in the patients. A review of the pathophysiology and future therapies is reviewed.
Interjurisdictional differences in Australian imprisonment rates: Sentencing or arrest rates?
Authors: Weatherburn Don
Published: October 2022

There are stark and enduring differences between the Australian States and Territories in their rates of imprisonment. The Australian Capital Territory, for example, has an imprisonment rate of 113/100,000 population. The Northern Territory imprisonment rate is more than 8 times the Australian Capital Territory rate, and 41% higher than the imprisonment rate in Louisiana; the US state with the highest imprisonment rate in that country. The disparity is not limited to the Australian Territories. The imprisonment rates of Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia, and New South Wales are between 1.5 and 2.4 times higher than the Victoria rate. The aim of the present article is to determine whether the lower rate of entry into Victorian prisons is due to less frequent use of imprisonment or a lower arrest/court appearance rate. We find that the principal reason is a lower court appearance rate, particularly in relation to traffic and vehicle regulatory offences, justice procedure and related offences, burglary/break and enter, and illicit drug offences.
Prognostic value of echocardiography-derived right ventricular dysfunction in haemodynamically stable pulmonary embolism: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Prosperi-Porta Graeme , Ronksley Paul , Kiamanesh Omid , Solverson Kevin , Motazedian Pouya , Weatherald Jason
Published: October 2022

Background

We sought to determine the prognostic value of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE)-derived right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) in haemodynamically stable and intermediate-risk patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE), evaluate continuous RVD parameters, and assess the literature quality.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for studies assessing TTE-derived RVD in haemodynamically stable PE that reported in-hospital adverse events within 30 days. We determined pooled odds ratios (ORs) using a random-effects model, created funnel plots, evaluated the Newcastle–Ottawa scale and performed Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

Results

Based on 55 studies (17 090 patients, 37.8% RVD), RVD was associated with combined adverse events (AEs) (OR 3.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.59–4.18), mortality (OR 2.00, CI 1.66–2.40) and PE-related mortality (OR 4.01, CI 2.79–5.78). In intermediate-risk patients, RVD was associated with AEs (OR 1.99, CI 1.17–3.37) and PE-related mortality (OR 6.16, CI 1.33–28.40), but not mortality (OR 1.63, CI 0.76–3.48). Continuous RVD parameters provide a greater spectrum of risk compared to categorical RVD. We identified publication bias, poor methodological quality in 34/55 studies and overall low certainty of evidence.

Conclusions

RVD is frequent in PE and associated with adverse outcomes. However, data quality and publication bias are limitations of existing evidence.
Benchmark study of feature selection strategies for multi-omics data
Authors: Li Yingxia , Mansmann Ulrich , Du Shangming , Hornung Roman
Published: October 2022

Background

In the last few years, multi-omics data, that is, datasets containing different types of high-dimensional molecular variables for the same samples, have become increasingly available. To date, several comparison studies focused on feature selection methods for omics data, but to our knowledge, none compared these methods for the special case of multi-omics data. Given that these data have specific structures that differentiate them from single-omics data, it is unclear whether different feature selection strategies may be optimal for such data. In this paper, using 15 cancer multi-omics datasets we compared four filter methods, two embedded methods, and two wrapper methods with respect to their performance in the prediction of a binary outcome in several situations that may affect the prediction results. As classifiers, we used support vector machines and random forests. The methods were compared using repeated fivefold cross-validation. The accuracy, the AUC, and the Brier score served as performance metrics.

Results

The results suggested that, first, the chosen number of selected features affects the predictive performance for many feature selection methods but not all. Second, whether the features were selected by data type or from all data types concurrently did not considerably affect the predictive performance, but for some methods, concurrent selection took more time. Third, regardless of which performance measure was considered, the feature selection methods mRMR, the permutation importance of random forests, and the Lasso tended to outperform the other considered methods. Here, mRMR and the permutation importance of random forests already delivered strong predictive performance when considering only a few selected features. Finally, the wrapper methods were computationally much more expensive than the filter and embedded methods.

Conclusions

We recommend the permutation importance of random forests and the filter method mRMR for feature selection using multi-omics data, where, however, mRMR is considerably more computationally costly.
High-throughput detection of T-DNA insertion sites for multiple transgenes in complex genomes
Authors: Edwards Brianne , Hornstein Eli D. , Wilson Nathan J. , Sederoff Heike
Published: October 2022

Background

Genetic engineering of crop plants has been successful in transferring traits into elite lines beyond what can be achieved with breeding techniques. Introduction of transgenes originating from other species has conferred resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, increased efficiency, and modified developmental programs. The next challenge is now to combine multiple transgenes into elite varieties via gene stacking to combine traits. Generating stable homozygous lines with multiple transgenes requires selection of segregating generations which is time consuming and labor intensive, especially if the crop is polyploid. Insertion site effects and transgene copy number are important metrics for commercialization and trait efficiency.

Results

We have developed a simple method to identify the sites of transgene insertions using T-DNA-specific primers and high-throughput sequencing that enables identification of multiple insertion sites in the T1 generation of any crop transformed via Agrobacterium. We present an example using the allohexaploid oil-seed plant Camelina sativa to determine insertion site location of two transgenes.

Conclusion

This new methodology enables the early selection of desirable transgene location and copy number to generate homozygous lines within two generations.
Evolutionary origin and functional specialization of Dormancy-Associated MADS box (DAM) proteins in perennial crops
Authors: Quesada-Traver Carles , Lloret Alba , Carretero-Paulet Lorenzo , Badenes María Luisa , Ríos Gabino
Published: October 2022

Background

Bud dormancy is a phenological adaptation of temperate perennials that ensures survival under winter temperature conditions by ceasing growth and increasing cold hardiness. SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE (SVP)-like factors, and particularly a subset of them named DORMANCY-ASSOCIATED MADS-BOX (DAM), are master regulators of bud dormancy in perennials, prominently Rosaceae crops widely adapted to varying environmental conditions.

Results

SVP-like proteins from recently sequenced Rosaceae genomes were identified and characterized using sequence, phylogenetic and synteny analysis tools. SVP-like proteins clustered in three clades (SVP1–3), with known DAM proteins located within SVP2 clade, which also included Arabidopsis AGAMOUS-LIKE 24 (AthAGL24). A more detailed study on these protein sequences led to the identification of a 15-amino acid long motif specific to DAM proteins, which affected protein heteromerization properties by yeast two-hybrid system in peach PpeDAM6, and the unexpected finding of predicted DAM-like genes in loquat, an evergreen species lacking winter dormancy. DAM gene expression in loquat trees was studied by quantitative PCR, associating with inflorescence development and growth in varieties with contrasting flowering behaviour.

Conclusions

Phylogenetic, synteny analyses and heterologous overexpression in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana supported three major conclusions: 1) DAM proteins might have emerged from the SVP2 clade in the Amygdaloideae subfamily of Rosaceae; 2) a short DAM-specific motif affects protein heteromerization, with a likely effect on DAM transcriptional targets and other functional features, providing a sequence signature for the DAM group of dormancy factors; 3) in agreement with other recent studies, DAM associates with inflorescence development and growth, independently of the dormancy habit.
The case against censoring of progression-free survival in cancer clinical trials – A pandemic shutdown as an illustration
Authors: Jamoul Corinne , Collette Laurence , Coart Elisabeth , D’Hollander Koenraad , Burzykowski Tomasz , Saad Everardo D. , Buyse Marc
Published: October 2022

Background

Missing data may lead to loss of statistical power and introduce bias in clinical trials. The Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on patient health care and on the conduct of cancer clinical trials. Although several endpoints may be affected, progression-free survival (PFS) is of major concern, given its frequent use as primary endpoint in advanced cancer and the fact that missed radiographic assessments are to be expected. The recent introduction of the estimand framework creates an opportunity to define more precisely the target of estimation and ensure alignment between the scientific question and the statistical analysis.

Methods

We used simulations to investigate the impact of two basic approaches for handling missing tumor scans due to the pandemic: a “treatment policy” strategy, which consisted in ascribing events to the time they are observed, and a “hypothetical” approach of censoring patients with events during the shutdown period at the last assessment prior to that period. We computed the power of the logrank test, estimated hazard ratios (HR) using Cox models, and estimated median PFS times without and with a hypothetical 6-month shutdown period with no patient enrollment or tumor scans being performed, varying the shutdown starting times.

Results

Compared with the results in the absence of shutdown, the “treatment policy” strategy slightly overestimated median PFS proportionally to the timing of the shutdown period, but power was not affected. Except for one specific scenario, there was no impact on the estimated HR. In general, the pandemic had a greater impact on the analyses using the “hypothetical” strategy, which led to decreased power and overestimated median PFS times to a greater extent than the “treatment policy” strategy.

Conclusion

As a rule, we suggest that the treatment policy approach, which conforms with the intent-to-treat principle, should be the primary analysis to avoid unnecessary loss of power and minimize bias in median PFS estimates.
Acute kidney injury in Turkey: epidemiological characteristics, etiology, clinical course, and prognosis
Authors: Gursu Meltem , Yegenaga Itir , Tuglular Serhan , Dursun Belda , Bek Sibel Gokcay , Bardak Simge , Onan Engin , Demir Serap , Derici Ulver , Dogukan Ayhan , Sevinc Mustafa , Kocyigit Ismail , Altun Eda , Haras Ali Burak , Altiparmak Mehmet Riza , Tonbul Halil Zeki
Published: October 2022

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the etiologies, comorbidities, and outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) in Turkey and determine any potential differences among different geographical parts of the country.

Methods

This prospective observational study was conducted by the Acute Kidney Injury Working Group of the Turkish Society of Nephrology. Demographical and clinical data of patients with AKI at the time of diagnosis and at the 1stweek and 1st, 3rd, and 6thmonths of diagnosis were evaluated to determine patient and renal survival and factors associated with patient prognosis.

Results

A total of 776 patients were included (54.7% male, median age: 67 years). Prerenal etiologies, including dehydration, heart failure, and sepsis, were more frequent than other etiologies. 58.9% of the patients had at least one renal etiology, with nephrotoxic agent exposure as the most common etiology. The etiologic factors were mostly similar throughout the country. 33.6% of the patients needed kidney replacement therapy. At the 6thmonth of diagnosis, 29.5% of the patients had complete recovery; 34.1% had partial recovery; 9.5% developed end-stage kidney disease; and 24.1% died. The mortality rate was higher in the patients from the Eastern Anatolian region; those admitted to the intensive care unit; those with prerenal, renal, and postrenal etiologies together, stage 3 AKI, sepsis, cirrhosis, heart failure, and malignancy; those who need kidney replacement therapy; and those without chronic kidney disease than in the other patients.

Conclusion

Physicians managing patients with AKI should be alert against dehydration, heart failure, sepsis, and nephrotoxic agent exposure. Understanding the characteristics and outcomes of patients with AKI in their countries would help prevent AKI and improve treatment strategies.
Significant associations between bone mineral density and vascular calcification in patients with different stages of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Uhlinova Jana , Kuudeberg Anne , Metsküla Kaja , Lember Margus , Rosenberg Mai
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Chronic kidney disease—mineral and bone disorders (CKD-MBD) is characterised by generalised vascular calcification (VC) and impaired bone health. We aimed to investigate the relationship between VC and bone mineral density (BMD) in CKD patients.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional study of patients with different stages of CKD. For assessment of VC of abdominal aorta lateral lumbar X-rays (Kauppila score), the ankle-brachial index (ABI) and echocardiography were used. Total body densitometry provided BMD.

Results

Ninety patients (41% male, median age 64 years (range 29–87)) were included, of whom 41.1% had a Kauppila score > 1. Evidence of peripheral VC as measured by ABI was detected in 23.3% of cases. Lesions of the heart valves were found in 46.7% of patients. There was a significant association between high ABI and lesions of the heart valves. In the multivariate regression model to analyse the independent determinants of abdominal aorta calcification (AAC) and ABI, the BMD of the femoral neck was identified as significant for both (p = 0.001, p = 0.001). The total spine BMD was found to be significant for AAC (p = 0.001), and the BMD of spine L1-L4 and the ribs were found to be significant for ABI (p = 0.01, p = 0.002 respectively). In factorial regression analysis, where BMD was independent determinant, valvular calcification was significant for BMD of femur, femoral neck and total BMD. Age and tALP were inversely correlated with the BMD of femur and femoral neck.

Conclusions

Our work highlighted clinically important relationships between VC and bone mineral density (BMD) in CKD patients. We detected inverse relationships between AAC, high ABI and BMD. Secondly, BMD at certain bone sites (femur, femoral neck) and total BMD were associated with important lesions of heart valves. Thirdly, a significant association between a high ABI and lesions of the heart valves. We believe that the results of our study will help in the planning of future research and in current clinical practice for the early diagnosis, further monitoring and management of CKD-MBD. Additionally, these results may have treatment implications on use of different CKD-MBD medications.
Lnc-SELPLG-2:1 enhanced osteosarcoma oncogenesis via hsa-miR-10a-5p and the BTRC cascade
Authors: Li Shiyuan , Zeng Ming , Yang Lin , Tan Jianshao , Yang Jianqi , Guan Hongye , Kuang Manyuan , Li Jiaying
Published: October 2022

Background

To investigate the potential role of Long Non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the progression of osteosarcoma.

Methods

The candidate lncRNAs were screened with RNA-seq and confirmed with quantitative real-time PCR. Using MTS, transwell assay, and flow cytometric analysis, the effects of overexpressed lnc-SELPLG-2:1 on cell functions were determined. Immunohistochemical staining, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and luciferase reporter assay were used to evaluate the potential mechanism of lnc-SELPLG-2:1 in vivo and in vitro using a tumor model. Moreover, the effects of overexpression of hsa-miR-10a-5p on the functions of SaOS2 cells were determined using functional cell analysis. A response test was used to confirm the mechanism by which lnc-SELPLG-2:1 sponge hsa-miR-10a-5p promotes the expression of BTRC to regulate osteosarcoma.

Results

Lnc-SELPLG-2:1 was highly expressed in osteosarcoma compared to normal cells and bone and marrow samples. Inhibition of lnc-SELPLG-2:1 accelerated cell apoptosis and suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, whereas lnc-SELPLG-2:1 overexpression had the opposite effect. Moreover, inhibiting lnc-SELPLG-2:1 in an in vivo model decreased tumor size and suppressed the expression of cell migration-related proteins. The prediction, dual luciferase assay, and response test results indicated that hsa-miR-10-5p and BTRC were involved in the lnc-SELPLG-2:1 cascade. Unlike lnc-SELPLG-2:1, hsa-hsa-miR-10a-5p had opposite expression and function. Competitive binding of lnc-SELPLG-2:1 to hsa-hsa-miR-10a-5p prevented BTRC from miRNA-mediated degradation, thereby activating the expression of VIM, MMP9, and MMP2, promoting osteosarcoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and inhibiting apoptosis.

Conclusion

Lnc-SELPLG-2:1 is an oncogenesis activator in osteosarcoma, and its functions are performed via hsa-miR-10a-5p /BTRC cascade.
Are health promoting lifestyles associated with pain intensity and menstrual distress among Iranian adolescent girls?
Authors: Cholbeigi Elahe , Rezaienik Shaghayegh , Safari Narges , Lissack Kerrie , Griffiths Mark D , Alimoradi Zainab
Published: October 2022

Objective

The present study investigated the relationship between a health-promoting lifestyle and menstrual pain intensity and distress among adolescent girls in Qazvin.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey study using a two-stage sampling method was conducted. The participants (n = 986) were female high school students aged 14–19 years living in Qazvin. Random cluster sampling was used to recruit participants from schools and classes from each grade. An online survey was provided to all participants to complete. Data were collected using a Demographic and Menstrual Characteristics Checklist, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) to assess dysmenorrhea intensity, the Andresh Milsom Scale (AMS) to assess dysmenorrhea severity, the Moos Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MMDS) to assess menstrual distress, and the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLP) to assess a health promoting lifestyle. Data were analyzed using an univariable linear regression model at a significance level of 0.05.

Results

The findings indicated that 421 participants (42.7%) experienced dysmenorrhea with a mean duration of 2.24 days (SD = 1.57) and a mean pain intensity of 4.62 on the VAS (SD = 2.87). The mean score on the menstrual distress on the MDDS was 13.55 (SD = 8.88) and the mean score on the HPLP was 2.55 (SD = 0.50). Based on the results of univariable linear regression, nutrition (β=-0.18, p < 0.001) and exercise (β=-0.17, p < 0.001) had the most significant effect on the severity of dysmenorrhea pain. Also, self-actualization (β=-0.29, p < 0.001), stress management (β=-0.25, p < 0.001) and nutrition (β=-0.25, p < 0.001) had the most significant effect on menstrual distress.

Conclusion

Based on these findings, it is suggested that (i) improving nutrition and exercise might reduce the severity of dysmenorrhea pain and (ii) improving self-actualization, stress management and nutrition might reduce the severity of menstrual distress. Overall, it seems that improving health-promoting lifestyle behaviors can help improve the severity of dysmenorrhea pain and menstrual distress among adolescent girls.
Violence against women from partners and other household members during COVID-19 in Burkina Faso and Kenya
Authors: Decker Michele R. , Wood Shannon N. , Thomas Haley L. , Thiongo Mary , Guiella Georges , Fiacre Bazie , Onadja Yentéma , Gichangi Peter
Published: October 2022

Background

Global evidence indicates increases in gender-based violence (GBV) during the COVID-19 pandemic following mitigation measures, such as stay at home orders. Indirect effects of the pandemic, including income loss, strained social support, and closed or inaccessible violence response services, may further exacerbate GBV and undermine help-seeking. In Kenya and Burkina Faso, as in many settings, GBV was prevalent prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies specific to COVID-impact on GBV in Kenya indicate mixed results and there remains a lack of evidence from Burkina Faso. Our study takes a comprehensive lens by addressing both intimate partner violence (IPV) and non-partner household abuse through the COVID-19 pandemic in two priority settings.

Methods

Annual, national cross-sections of women ages 15–49 completed survey data collection in November–December 2020 and December 2020–March 2021; the GBV module was limited to one woman per household [Kenya n = 6715; Burkina n = 4065]. Descriptive statistics, Venn diagrams, and logistic and multinomial regression characterized prevalence of IPV and other household abuse, frequency relative to the COVID-19 pandemic, help-seeking behaviors, and predictors of IPV and household abuse across the socioecological framework.

Results

In both settings, past-year IPV prevalence exceeded non-partner household abuse (Kenya: 23.5%IPV, 11.0%household; Burkina Faso: 25.7%IPV, 16.2%household). Over half of those affected in each setting did not seek help; those that did turned first to family. Among those with past-year experiences, increased frequency since COVID-19 was noted for IPV (16.0%Burkina Faso; 33.6%Kenya) and household violence (14.3%Burkina Faso; 26.2%Kenya). Both context-specific (i.e., financial autonomy in Burkina Faso) and universal (i.e., COVID-related income loss) risk factors emerged.

Conclusion

Past-year IPV and household violence against women in Kenya and Burkina Faso were prevalent, and in some cases, intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Across settings, help-seeking from formal services was notably low, likely reflecting shame, blame, and stigmatization identified as barriers in pre-COVID literature. Both primary prevention and survivor-centered support services, including those related to economic empowerment, should be integrated within COVID-recovery efforts, and extended into the post-pandemic period to fully meet women’s safety needs.
Living with parents, lifestyle pattern and common mental disorders in adolescents: a school-based study in Brazil
Authors: Gratão Lucia Helena Almeida , Pessoa Milene Cristine , Rocha Luana Lara , da Silva Thales Philipe Rodrigues , Santos Freitas Eloar dos , de Oliveira Tatiana Resende Prado Rangel , de Freitas Cunha Cristiane , Mendes Larissa Loures
Published: October 2022

Background

Mental health conditions represent 16% of the global burden of disease and injury in adolescents. Promotion, protection, and restoring the mental health must be considered indispensable, especially in adolescence. This study aims to verify the association of lifestyle pattern, living with parents and the presence of Common Mental Disorders (CMD) in Brazilian adolescents.

Methods

Cross-sectional study that analyzed data from 71,553 adolescents aged 12–17 years, from the Study on Cardiovascular Risks in Adolescents (ERICA), between 2013 and 2014. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was performed to identify lifestyle pattern, and Logistic Regression Models were performed to identify the associations between lifestyle pattern, living with parents, and presence of CMD.

Results

To construct the Common Mental Disorders (CMD) variable, the Goldberg General Health Questionnaire was used. The Pattern of Healthy Lifestyle Practices found was characterized by higher water consumption, lower consumption of ultra-processed foods, the habit of eating breakfast, less exposure time to screens, habit of physical activity, and longer mean sleep time in hours. Adolescents belonging to the second (OR: 0.73; 95% CI 0.65–0.82) and third (OR: 0.44; 95% CI 0.39–0.50) terciles of the pattern, that is, those who had higher belonging to the pattern had lower chances of having CMD. Adolescents who lived with neither parent (OR: 1.44; 95% CI 1.16–1.78) were associated with a higher chance to present CMD.

Conclusion

Living with parents can contribute to better mental health among adolescents. In addition, the adoption of a healthy lifestyle, encouraged by parents and the community, can reduce the chances of CMD in Brazilian adolescents.
Attitude and intention of migrant populations in the Netherlands regarding female genital mutilation/cutting
Authors: Kawous Ramin , Allwood Emily , Middelburg Annemarie , van der Kwaak Anke , Geraci Diana , Bos Marthine , van den Muijsenbergh Maria E. T. C.
Published: October 2022

Background

Due to migration, the practice female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) has become an issue of concern in high-resource countries such as the Netherlands. It was therefore of utmost importance to explore the attitude and intention of migrant populations in the Netherlands towards FGM/C, which may be leveraged to promote its elimination. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to explore the attitude and intention of migrant populations in the Netherlands regarding FGM/C.

Methods

A qualitative study design was employed using Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) as a framework for the analysis. Data were collected using focus-group discussions (FGDs) and individual interviews. The FGDs and individual interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The main topics of the interviews were based on the constructs of TPB (attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and intention). Thus, concerning the development of categories, we opted for a hybrid form using a deductive as well as an inductive approach.

Results

A total of 55 participants, 15 men and 40 women (9 born in the Netherlands) participated in the study. The findings showed that as a result of migration and regardless of country of origin and gender, many participants have changed their attitudes towards the abandonment of FGM/C. None of the participants intended to have FGM/C performed on their daughters. Generally, the social pressure to perform FGM/C seems to be lower in the Netherlands when compared to the country of origin. Most participants felt confident in their ability to resist social pressure. However, some participants feared that they might succumb to social pressure or feared that their daughters would undergo FGM/C without their consent.

Conclusion

This study aimed to explore the attitude and intention of migration populations in the Netherlands regarding FGM/C. Our findings showed that the study participants had no intention to perform FGM/C on their daughters. As a consequence of acculturation process, interest in the practice of FGM/C could wane following migration. Nonetheless, some pressure to perform FGM/C still exists after migration. Newly arrived migrants and those more vulnerable to social pressure, may benefit from educational interventions that increases knowledge and awareness about various aspects of the practice, with an emphasis on empowering those individuals in facing social pressure.