bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors That Affect the Magnitude of Tibial Tubercle–Trochlear Groove Distance in Patients With Patellar Instability
Authors: Hevesi Mario , Dandu Navya , Credille Kevin , Wang Zachary , Zavras Athan G. , Cregar William M. , Trasolini Nicholas A. , Yanke Adam B.
Published: November 2022

Background:

Tibial tubercle–trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance is a risk factor for recurrent patellar dislocation and is often included in algorithmic treatment of instability. The underlying factors that determine TT-TG have yet to be clearly described in orthopaedic literature.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of our study was to determine the underlying anatomic factors contributing to TT-TG distance. We hypothesized that degree of tubercle lateralization and knee rotation angle may substantially predict TT-TG.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

All patients evaluated for patellar instability at a single institution between 2013 and 2021 were included. Patients with previous knee osseous procedures were excluded. TT-TG and its anatomic relationship to patellofemoral measures, including dysplasia, femoral anteversion, tibial tubercle lateralization, knee rotation angle, and tibial torsion, were measured and subsequently quantified using univariate and multivariable analysis.

Results:

In total, 76 patients met the inclusion criteria (46 female, 30 male; mean ± SD age, 20.6 ± 8.6 years) and were evaluated. Mean TT-TG was 16.2 ± 5.4 mm. On univariate analysis, increasing knee rotation angle ( P < .01), tibial tubercle lateralization ( P = .02), and tibial torsion ( P = .01) were associated with increased TT-TG. In dysplastic cases, patients without medial hypoplasia (Dejour A or B) demonstrated significantly increased TT-TG (18.1 ± 5.4 mm) as compared with those with medial hypoplasia (Dejour C or D; TT-TG: 14.9 ± 5.2 mm; P = .02). Multivariable analysis revealed that increased knee rotation angle (+0.43-mm TT-TG per degree; P < .01) and tubercle lateralization (+0.19-mm TT-TG per percentage lateralization; P < .01) were statistically significant determinants of increased TT-TG distance. Upon accounting for these factors, tibial torsion, trochlear width, and medial hypoplasia were no longer significant components in predicting TT-TG ( P≥ .54). Of note, all patients with TT-TG ≥20 mm had tibial tubercle lateralization ≥68%, a knee rotation angle ≥5.8°, or both factors concurrently.

Conclusion:

TT-TG distance is most influenced by knee rotation angle and tibial tubercle lateralization.
Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of vaccinated COVID-19 patients: A meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Tian Wen , Ren Xingxiang , Han Mei , Zhang Yuanyuan , Gao Xu , Chen Zhihai , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2022

Objective: With the global epidemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), vaccination rates are increasing globally. This study evaluated the relevant clinical manifestations of vaccinated COVID-19 patients. Methods: We searched carefully in 11 databases such as PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Ovid, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, Wan Fang Data, Sinomed, VIP Database, and Reading Showing Database up to 26 March 2022. To search for articles that have described the characteristics of vaccinated patients including epidemiological and clinical symptoms. Statistical analysis of the extracted data using STATA 14.0. Results: A total of 58 articles and 263,708 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patients were included. Most of the patients in the vaccinated group had more asymptomatic infection and fewer severe illnesses. There were significant differences in ethnicity, and strain infected with COVID-19, and comorbidities (hyperlipidemia, diabetes, obesity, kidney disease, immunocompromised, cardiovascular disease, and tumor) and symptoms (fever, cough, gastrointestinal symptoms, neurological symptoms, and dysgeusia/anosmia) between vaccinated group and unvaccinated group. Oxygen support, use of steroid, days in hospital, hospital treatment, ICU treatment, death, and poor prognosis were also significantly different. Conclusion: Compared with the vaccinated group, patients in the unvaccinated group had a more severe clinical manifestations. Vaccines are also protective for infected people.
School-Based Family-Oriented Health Interventions to Promote Physical Activity in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Santos Francisco , Sousa Honorato , Gouveia Élvio Rúbio , Lopes Helder , Peralta Miguel , Martins João , Murawska-Ciałowicz Eugenia , Żurek Grzegorz , Marques Adilson
Published: November 2022

Objective

This study aimed to systematically review and analyse intervention programs in a school context centred on the family, focused on increasing youths' physical activity.

Data source

The research was carried out in the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases.

Study inclusion criteria

Studies were included if participants were children or adolescents, focusing on school-based intervention studies with parental involvement and physical activity, sedentary behaviour or physical fitness outcomes.

Data extraction

The search was performed according to the PRISMA protocol. A total of 416 articles were identified. After being considered for eligibility and duplicates, 22 studies were identified as relevant for inclusion.

Data synthesis

Sample and intervention characteristics, objective, the role of the family, outcomes measures, main findings regarding the outcomes and risk of bias.

Results

Ten studies reported improvements in physical activity, 6 in sedentary behaviour and 9 in the components of physical fitness and/or skills related to healthy behaviours and lifestyles. Most of the interventions adopted a multidisciplinary and multi-component approach.

Conclusions

Most interventions employed a school’s multidisciplinary/multi-component approach to promoting physical activity, nutrition, and general education for healthier lifestyle behaviours. The impact of school-based interventions involving families on youth’s physical activity levels is still a relatively emerging theme. Further research is needed given the diversity of the intervention’s characteristics and the disparity in the results’ efficacy.
Correlates of Anticipated Responses to Cigar Price Increase Among U.S. Adults Who Smoke Cigars
Authors: King Jensen Jessica L. , Rashid Mariam , Ajith Aniruddh , Jewett Bambi , Hacker Kiana , Phan Lilianna , Choi Kelvin , Chen-Sankey Julia
Published: November 2022

We examined the prevalence and correlates of anticipated responses to hypothetical cigar price increases. Data are from a 2021 representative sample of U.S. adults who reported past-30-day cigar use ( n = 454; mean age = 39.8 years). Weighted multivariable logistic regressions assessed the correlates of behavior change responses. If cigar price increased, 77.2% intend to pay more, 44.7% intend to reduce use, and 39.9%, 37.7%, and 17.1% intend to use other tobacco, cannabis, and cheaper cigars, respectively. Those who smoked cigarillos (vs. other cigars) had higher odds of intending to pay more (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.41, 5.29]) and use other tobacco (AOR = 2.35; 95%CI = [1.26, 4.36]). Those who smoked within 5 min of waking (vs. >60 min) had higher odds of intending to use cheaper cigars (AOR = 5.19, 95%CI = [1.38, 19.46]). Almost half of U.S. adults who report past-30-day cigar use may reduce cigar smoking in response to price increases, though behavioral response may depend on cigar type smoked and tobacco dependence.
Servitude for a time: From the permanent slavery of the unfree to the slavery pro tempore of the free
Authors: Melossi Dario
Published: November 2022

I consider the forms of control, which went “untreated” by 1970s “revisionist” penality literature (in other words, I wonder whether the categories of human beings who are (mostly) not found in prisons have something in common). I take as starting point that the “temporary slavery” which is the punishment of imprisonment, emerged historically as related to the “free” condition of those punished. Forms of control instead for the “unfree” are not to be included in “(penal) imprisonment” and could be understood as “domestic” forms of control expressed, originally, in the idea of “Pater Familias.” This form of control is not punishment but is a permanent condition deemed appropriate for given categories of human beings, such as “children,” “women,” “slaves,” and what I call “the mad and other non-persons.” I first examine how imprisonment (as punishment) emerged, after the end of servitude in Europe, as a sort of “memory of slavery,” to enforce a principle of subordination dedicated to “the free.” Then, I look at the mechanisms of social control for those who are not socially perceived as “free.” Finally, I attempt at sketching the process of expansion of mechanisms of subordination—for the free and the unfree—beyond European borders.
Exploring the effect of pavement reflection and photometric properties on road lighting performance
Authors: Li H , Xie N , Harvey J , Liu J , Zhang H , Zhang Y
Published: November 2022

The reflection properties of pavement have an impact on the lit environment and thus upon drivers’ vision and comfort and the energy consumption of the lighting installation. The reflection properties combine diffuse and specular components. The specular reflection component changes with different materials: it also changes when the surface is wet, although this is sometimes ignored in lighting design. This study used simulation (DIALux 4.13) to investigate the effect on lighting parameters (luminance, overall uniformity, longitudinal uniformity and threshold increment (TI)) of changes in pavement reflection properties using different pavement materials and under dry and wet conditions. Furthermore, comparison of lighting parameters was made with different road lighting arrangements. The results show that an increase in the specular reflection component leads to an increase in luminance and a decrease in uniformity. Of the surfaces investigated, the porous pavement had the lower luminance but better uniformity. Arranging the lighting installation based on the extreme wettest condition could make luminance and uniformity rise but with an increase of 2–2.5 kWh/m2 annual energy consumption. When trying to control glare problems during design process, it is suggested that uniformity cannot be neglected except the TI.
BCL6-SPECC1L: A Novel Fusion Gene in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Fang Shuo-Gui , Xia Tian-Liang , Fu Jian-Chang , Li Tong , Zhong Qian , Han Fei
Published: November 2022

Background: Nasopharyngeal carcinomas (NPCs) are malignant tumors originating from the lining epithelium of the nasopharynx. Fusion genes have been confirmed to play important roles in the occurrence and development of various malignant tumors, but the role of fusion genes in NPC is poorly understood. We aimed to explore new fusion genes that promote the occurrence and development of NPC. Methods: RNA-seq was used to search for interchromosomal translocations in 18 NPC tissues. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Sanger sequencing were applied to verify the presence of BCL6-SPECC1L (BS); quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blotting were used to measure the expression level of BCL-6 in NPC cells; MTT and in vivo tumorigenesis assays were applied to evaluate the cell proliferation ability; immunofluorescence assays were used to determine the cellular localization of BCL6 and BS; and a luciferase reporter assay was performed to evaluate the ability of BCL6 and BS to inhibit transcription. Results: BS was present in 5.34% (11/206) of primary NPC biopsies and 2.13% (1/47) of head and neck cancer biopsies. The expression of BCL6 was downregulated in NPC, and silencing of endogenous BCL6 promoted NPC cell proliferation in vitro. Overexpression of BCL6 but not BS inhibited the growth of NPC cells in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, BCL6 localized in the nucleus can inhibit the G1/S transition to suppress the growth of NPC cells. However, after the fusion of BCL6 and SPECC1L, the product cannot localize to the nucleus, and the transcriptional inhibitory function of BCL6 is abolished, eventually abolishing its tumor suppressor effect and leading to the development of NPC. Conclusion: BS is a novel fusion gene in NPC that may play an important role in the occurrence and development of this cancer. The clinical significance of the BS fusion gene needs further elucidation.
Magnetic resonance imaging spectrum of COVID-associated rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis and assessment of anatomical severity
Authors: Kumar Ishan , Verma Ashish , Dangwal Jyoti , Singh Pramod Kumar , Chandra Shukla Ram , Chakravarty Jaya
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To describe the extent and imaging findings of COVID-associated rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis on magnetic resonance imaging and to evaluate the value of MRI severity score in grading the extent of involvement.

Methods

Proven cases of ROCM with a history of concurrent or recently (<6 weeks) treated COVID-19 underwent MRI at the initial presentation. Findings were charted for each anatomical structure and the extent of involvement was scored for sinonasal, extra-sinus soft tissues, orbits, and brain. MR severity score was defined by summing up the individual scores of each compartment (sinonasal 20, orbital 20, soft tissue 10, and brain 10) and a total score out of 60 was assigned.

Results

A total of 47 patients were included in our study with variable involvement of sinonasal compartment ( n = 43), extra-sinus soft tissue ( n = 25), orbits ( n = 23), and brain ( n = 17). In the sinonasal compartment, T2, DWI, and post-contrast T1 were the most useful sequences. A significantly higher mean sinonasal score was associated with mortality ( p = 0.007). In the orbits, a combination of STIR (orbital fat and extraconal muscles), DWI (optic nerves), and post-contrast images (superior ophthalmic vein) were the most accurate sequences. A higher mean orbital score was associated with vision loss ( p = 0.001). Patients with uncontrolled diabetes had greater extent of cranial involvement.

Conclusion

A combination of magnetic resonance sequences is required to correctly evaluate the involvement of individual structures and thus to assign the correct MR scoring. The proposed MR severity score can effectively and objectively evaluate the severity of COVID-associated ROCM.
Epidemiology of Ankle Ligament Injuries in US High School Athletes
Authors: Swanson Bryan , Hewitt Michael A. , Buckley Sara E. , Collins Christy , Hunt Kenneth J.
Published: November 2022

Category:

Sports; Ankle; Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

Foot and ankle injuries account for a large percentage of the over one million injuries sustained by high school level athletes. To date, many studies have examined the epidemiology of lower extremity injuries and ankle sprains, but few studies have classified sprains into subtypes across multiple sports. The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology of ankle sprain subtypes across 9 common high school sports.

Methods:

Athlete exposure and injury specific data from 7 seasons (2014 to 2021) were collected using the internet-based High School Reporting Information Online (High School RIO), a national high school sports injury surveillance system, for athletes participating in 1 of 9 sports (boys' and girls' soccer, girls' volleyball, boys' and girls' basketball, boys' baseball, girls' softball, boys' football, boys' wrestling). Incidence and ligament involvement of foot and ankle injuries were examined, with incidence being calculated as 1 injury per 10,000 athlete exposures (AE).

Results:

Ankle ligament injuries accounted for 89.0% of the 7,321 foot and ankle injuries across the 9 sports (81-94%). Girls and boys' basketball had the highest incidence of sprains, 3.46 and 3.37 respectively. Ankle ligament injuries accounted for 35.9% of all lower extremity injuries in basketball players. 85.0% of the sprains were classified as lateral ligament, 4.0% medial ligament, 11.5% syndesmosis (8.6% partial and 2.9% complete syndesmosis injuries). Football had the highest percentage of syndesmosis injuries at 11.0%, and the highest incidence of both syndesmosis injuries (0.44) and medial ligament injuries (0.17). Surgical intervention was required in 4.3% of complete syndesmosis injuries and 0.7% of lateral ligament injuries. No differences were found in incidence of ankle ligament injuries comparing pre-COVID-19 seasons (2014-2020) to the 2020-2021 season.

Conclusion:

Ankle sprains account for a large percentage of foot and ankle injuries sustained by high school level athletes. Syndesmosis injuries occur more commonly in football and are 6 times more likely to require early surgical intervention compared to lateral ligament injuries. Identifying sports commonly involved in these injuries and classifying the sprains is the first step in implementing early identification, rehabilitation, and prevention programs. Future studies should examine the efficacy of injury prevention programs and rates of ankle sprains among high school level athletes.
A Topical Botanical Ointment for Self-Reported Hip and/or Knee Pain: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Bloomer Richard J. , Pence Jacquelyn , Morris Roddy , B. Stockton Michelle , Signaigo Allyson
Published: November 2022

Joint pain is a common ailment among adults worldwide. Six men and 14 women (aged 51 ± 10 years) with self-reported joint pain were randomly assigned, using a cross-over design, to a botanical ointment (Yeahhh Baby!®) or placebo, twice daily for 14 days. Subjects completed questionnaires regarding their joint pain and discomfort (eg, WOMAC and subjective pain using a visual analog scale [VAS]) each evening and underwent a washout period of two weeks before crossing into the other condition. Pain and discomfort scores improved for subjects when using Yeahhh Baby!® ointment from day 1 to the average of days 2-15. For certain measures, similar, albeit insignificant, improvements were noted when subjects used the placebo—demonstrating the powerful placebo effect. Specifically, with Yeahhh Baby!® ointment, effects were noted for WOMAC pain ( P = .008), WOMAC physical function ( P = .024), WOMAC total ( P = .019), and VAS mood interference ( P = .042). The most pronounced improvement was noted for WOMAC pain ( P = .048), with a 25% reduction observed with Yeahhh Baby!®, with a 10% reduction noted for placebo. These findings indicate that, as compared to a placebo, Yeahhh Baby!® ointment may provide relief to individuals suffering from joint pain in their knees and/or hips.
Prevalence and factors associated with the use of long-acting reversible and permanent contraceptive methods among women who desire no more children in high fertility countries in sub-saharan Africa
Authors: Bolarinwa Obasanjo Afolabi , Afaya Agani , Ajayi Kobi V. , Ojo Abimbola , Alawode Oluwatobi Abel
Published: November 2022

Background

The proportion of women with family planning needs increased from 74 to 76% between 2000 and 2019, and this improvement has not transcended to a fertility rate stall or decrease in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). In the face of a continuous increase in the fertility rate in SSA, population experts agreed that the efficient use of reliable family planning methods such as long-acting reversible and permanent contraceptive methods (LARC/PMs) could help reduce the high fertility rate and associated adverse reproductive health outcomes in the region. However, despite the effectiveness of LARC/PMs, its use remains elusive in SSA. Thus, this study examines the prevalence and factors associated with the use of LARC/PMs among women who desire no more children in high-fertility countries in SSA.

Methods

Secondary datasets from the demographic health surveys conducted in 20 countries in SSA between 2010 and 2019 were included in the study. A total sample size of 46,290 sexually active women of reproductive age who desire no more children and who met the study inclusion criteria was pooled and analysed. Prevalence of LARC/PMs use was displayed using a graph whilst binary logistic regression was used to determine the associated factors, and results were presented as unadjusted odds ratio and adjusted odds ratio with a statistical significance of p < 0.05.

Results

The prevalence of LARC/PMs use among women who desire no more children was 7.5%. Ranging from 20.9% in Senegal and as low as 0.4% in Congo. Women within the richest wealth index [aOR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.03–1.36] and those exposed to mass media [aOR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.41–1.68] had higher odds of LARC/PMs use among sexually active women of reproductive age who desire no more children compared to those within poorest wealth index and women with no mass media exposure.

Conclusion

The study concluded that LARC/PMs use among sexually active women who desire no more children was very low, and women within the richest wealth index and those with mass media exposure were likely to use LARC/PMs. Interventions that will encourage using LARC/PMs should be prioritised to reduce fertility rates in SSA.
Lifestyle behaviors and mental health during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic among college students: a web-based study
Authors: Zhang Yi , Tao Shuman , Qu Yang , Mou Xingyue , Gan Hong , Zhou Panfeng , Zhu Zhuoyan , Wu Xiaoyan , Tao Fangbiao
Published: November 2022

Background

After emerging in China, the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) quickly spread to all parts of the country and became a global public health emergency. The Chinese government immediately took a series of protective and quarantine measures to prevent the spread of the virus, and these measures may have negative effects on behavior and psychological health. This study aimed to examine the associations between factors related to COVID-19 measures and mental health symptoms among Chinese college students in different pandemic areas.

Methods

An online survey was administered to 14,789 college students from February 4 to 12, 2020. After excluding the participants who did not complete the questionnaire, the quality of the questionnaire was checked. Finally, the sample included 11,787 college students from 16 cities and 21 universities in China. The areas included the city of Wuhan (Area 1), the neighboring province of Hubei (Area 2), first-tier cities (Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou [Area 3]), and other provinces (Area 4).

Results

The average age of the participants was 20.51 ± 1.88 years. One-third of the participants were men. In total, 25.9 and 17.8% reported depression and anxiety, respectively. We also explored COVID-19-related factors, such as infection risk, perceived resistance to COVID-19 (or susceptibility to COVID-19 infection), perceived physical symptoms, family or friends, direct or indirect contact with confirmed cases, and having sought psychological counseling, which were significantly associated with anxiety and depression symptoms. Higher screen time, lower physical activity, higher soda and tea beverages (also called sugar sweetened beverages intake), use of alternative medicines or food supplements (including Chinese herbal medicines and vitamins), and decreased meal frequency were all correlated with higher depression and anxiety symptoms (depression: χ2 = 25.57 and anxiety: χ2 = 39.42). Coping with COVID-19 partially mediated the associations between some related lifestyle behaviors, anxiety, and depression. The conditional process model analysis results supported our hypotheses that lifestyle health behaviors and coping style were both predictors of anxiety and depression symptoms, and their direct and indirect effects were moderated by sex.

Conclusions

Compared with the city of Wuhan, other epidemic areas had a lower risk of mental health problems. Lifestyle health behaviors and coping styles alleviated mental health symptoms. COVID-19-related social stressors were positively associated with mental health symptoms.
SARS-CoV-2 accessory protein 7b forms homotetramers in detergent
Authors: Surya Wahyu , Queralt-Martin Maria , Mu Yuguang , Aguilella Vicente M. , Torres Jaume
Published: November 2022

A global pandemic is underway caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The SARS-CoV-2 genome, like its predecessor SARS-CoV, contains open reading frames that encode accessory proteins involved in virus-host interactions active during infection and which likely contribute to pathogenesis. One of these accessory proteins is 7b, with only 44 (SARS-CoV) and 43 (SARS-CoV-2) residues. It has one predicted transmembrane domain fully conserved, which suggests a functional role, whereas most variability is contained in the predicted cytoplasmic C-terminus. In SARS-CoV, 7b protein is expressed in infected cells, and the transmembrane domain was necessary and sufficient for Golgi localization. Also, anti-p7b antibodies have been found in the sera of SARS-CoV convalescent patients. In the present study, we have investigated the hypothesis that SARS-2 7b protein forms oligomers with ion channel activity. We show that in both SARS viruses 7b is almost completely α-helical and has a single transmembrane domain. In SDS, 7b forms various oligomers, from monomers to tetramers, but only monomers when exposed to reductants. Combination of SDS gel electrophoresis and analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC) in both equilibrium and velocity modes suggests a dimer-tetramer equilibrium, but a monomer–dimer–tetramer equilibrium in the presence of reductant. This data suggests that although disulfide-linked dimers may be present, they are not essential to form tetramers. Inclusion of pentamers or higher oligomers in the SARS-2 7b model were detrimental to fit quality. Preliminary models of this association was generated with AlphaFold2, and two alternative models were exposed to a molecular dynamics simulation in presence of a model lipid membrane. However, neither of the two models provided any evident pathway for ions. To confirm this, SARS-2 p7b was studied using Planar Bilayer Electrophysiology. Addition of p7b to model membranes produced occasional membrane permeabilization, but this was not consistent with bona fide ion channels made of a tetrameric assembly of α-helices.
An integrated deep learning model for the prediction of pathological complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy with serial ultrasonography in breast cancer patients: a multicentre, retrospective study
Authors: Wu Lei , Ye Weitao , Liu Yu , Chen Dong , Wang Yuxiang , Cui Yanfen , Li Zhenhui , Li Pinxiong , Li Zhen , Liu Zaiyi , Liu Min , Liang Changhong , Yang Xiaotang , Xie Yu , Wang Ying
Published: November 2022

Background

The biological phenotype of tumours evolves during neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Accurate prediction of pathological complete response (pCR) to NAC in the early-stage or posttreatment can optimize treatment strategies or improve the breast-conserving rate. This study aimed to develop and validate an autosegmentation-based serial ultrasonography assessment system (SUAS) that incorporated serial ultrasonographic features throughout the NAC of breast cancer to predict pCR.

Methods

A total of 801 patients with biopsy-proven breast cancer were retrospectively enrolled from three institutions and were split into a training cohort (242 patients), an internal validation cohort (197 patients), and two external test cohorts (212 and 150 patients). Three imaging signatures were constructed from the serial ultrasonographic features before (pretreatment signature), during the first–second cycle of (early-stage treatment signature), and after (posttreatment signature) NAC based on autosegmentation by U-net. The SUAS was constructed by subsequently integrating the pre, early-stage, and posttreatment signatures, and the incremental performance was analysed.

Results

The SUAS yielded a favourable performance in predicting pCR, with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUCs) of 0.927 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.891–0.963] and 0.914 (95% CI 0.853–0.976), compared with those of the clinicopathological prediction model [0.734 (95% CI 0.665–0.804) and 0.610 (95% CI 0.504–0.716)], and radiologist interpretation [0.632 (95% CI 0.570–0.693) and 0.724 (95% CI 0.644–0.804)] in the external test cohorts. Furthermore, similar results were also observed in the early-stage treatment of NAC [AUC 0.874 (0.793–0.955)–0.897 (0.851–0.943) in the external test cohorts].

Conclusions

We demonstrate that autosegmentation-based SAUS integrating serial ultrasonographic features throughout NAC can predict pCR with favourable performance, which can facilitate individualized treatment strategies.
Energy Trade-off and 4 Extreme Human Body Types
Authors: Hochberg Ze’ev , Albertsson-Wikland Kerstin , Privé Florian , German Alina , Holmgren Anton , Rubin Lisa , Shmoish Michael
Published: November 2022

Background

Resource trade-off theory suggests that increased performance on a given trait comes at the cost of decreased performance on other traits.

Methods

Growth data from 1889 subjects (996 girls) were used from the GrowUp1974 Gothenburg study. Energy Trade-Off (ETO) between height and weight for individuals with extreme body types was characterized using a novel ETO-Score (ETOS). Four extreme body types were defined based on height and ETOI at early adulthood: tall-slender, short-stout, short-slender, and tall-stout; their growth trajectories assessed from ages 0.5-17.5 years.A GWAS using UK BioBank data was conducted to identify gene variants associated with height, BMI, and for the first time with ETOS.

Results

Height and ETOS trajectories show a two-hit pattern with profound changes during early infancy and at puberty for tall-slender and short-stout body types. Several loci (including FTO, ADCY3, GDF5, ) and pathways were identified by GWAS as being highly associated with ETOS. The most strongly associated pathways were related to “extracellular matrix,” “signal transduction,” “chromatin organization,” and “energy metabolism.”

Conclusions

ETOS represents a novel anthropometric trait with utility in describing body types. We discovered the multiple genomic loci and pathways probably involved in energy trade-off.
Intra-individual Variability of Serum Aldosterone and Implications for Primary Aldosteronism Screening
Authors: Maciel Ana Alice W , Freitas Thais C , Fagundes Gustavo F C , Petenuci Janaina , Vilela Leticia A P , Brito Luciana P , Goldbaum Tatiana S , Zerbini Maria Claudia N , Ledesma Felipe L , Tanno Fabio Y , Srougi Victor , Chambo Jose L , Pereira Maria Adelaide A , Coelho Fernando M A , Cavalcante Aline C B S , Carnevale Francisco C , Pilan Bruna , Pio-Abreu Andrea , Silveira João V , Consolim-Colombo Fernanda M , Bortolotto Luiz A , Latronico Ana Claudia , Fragoso Maria Candida B V , Drager Luciano F , Mendonca Berenice B , Almeida Madson Q
Published: November 2022

Context

Primary aldosteronism (PA) screening relies on an elevated aldosterone to renin ratio with a minimum aldosterone level, which varies from 10 to 15 ng/dL (277-415.5 pmol/L) using immunoassay.

Objective

To evaluate intra-individual coefficient of variation (CV) of aldosterone and aldosterone to direct renin concentration ratio (A/DRC) and its impact on PA screening.

Methods

A total of 671 aldosterone and DRC measurements were performed by the same chemiluminescence assays in a large cohort of 216 patients with confirmed PA and at least 2 screenings.

Results

The median intra-individual CV of aldosterone and A/DRC was 26.8% and 26.7%. Almost 40% of the patients had at least one aldosterone level <15 ng/dL, 19.9% had at least 2 aldosterone levels <15 ng/dL, and 16.2% had mean aldosterone levels <15 ng/dL. A lower cutoff of 10 ng/dL was associated with false negative rates for PA screening of 14.3% for a single aldosterone measurement, 4.6% for 2 aldosterone measurements, and only 2.3% for mean aldosterone levels. Considering the minimum aldosterone, true positive rate of aldosterone thresholds was 85.7% for 10 ng/dL and 61.6% for 15 ng/dL. An A/DRC >2 ng/dL/µIU/mL had a true positive rate for PA diagnosis of 94.4% and 98.4% when based on 1 or 2 assessments, respectively. CV of aldosterone and A/DRC were not affected by sex, use of interfering antihypertensive medications, PA lateralization, hypokalemia, age, and number of hormone measurements.

Conclusion

Aldosterone concentrations had a high CV in PA patients, which results in an elevated rate of false negatives in a single screening for PA. Therefore, PA screening should be based on at least 2 screenings with concomitant aldosterone and renin measurements.
Therapeutic Strategies Targeting Pancreatic Islet β-Cell Proliferation, Regeneration, and Replacement
Authors: Goode Roy A , Hum Julia M , Kalwat Michael A
Published: November 2022

Diabetes results from insufficient insulin production by pancreatic islet β-cells or a loss of β-cells themselves. Restoration of regulated insulin production is a predominant goal of translational diabetes research. Here, we provide a brief overview of recent advances in the fields of β-cell proliferation, regeneration, and replacement. The discovery of therapeutic targets and associated small molecules has been enabled by improved understanding of β-cell development and cell cycle regulation, as well as advanced high-throughput screening methodologies. Important findings in β-cell transdifferentiation, neogenesis, and stem cell differentiation have nucleated multiple promising therapeutic strategies. In particular, clinical trials are underway using in vitro–generated β-like cells from human pluripotent stem cells. Significant challenges remain for each of these strategies, but continued support for efforts in these research areas will be critical for the generation of distinct diabetes therapies.
Tourism, Nation Building, and Regional Identities in the French Basque Country, 1830–1870
Authors: Ilacqua Talitha
Published: November 2022

The arrival of tourism in Biarritz and on the French Basque coast in the mid-nineteenth century accentuated the national sentiment of the area and its distinctive Basque cultural attributes alike. This article analyzes such dualism, emphasizing both transformations that turned Biarritz into a resort popular across France and Europe and modifications to local culture that made it a key feature of the tourist experience in the Basque Country. The contribution of the local population to the folklorization of its culture was key to its survival, underscoring the importance of regional folklore for the touristic success of France as a whole. Mid-nineteenth-century governments' support of local cultural initiatives, in turn, was necessary for their accomplishment, as well as for the maturing of an idea of France as unitary yet culturally diverse that came to define the early Third Republic after 1870.

Le début de l'expérience touristique à Biarritz et sur la côte basque française au milieu du dix-neuvième siècle a accentué le sentiment national de la région et les particularités culturelles basques. Cet article analyse ce dualisme et souligne deux aspects : les changements qui ont transformé Biarritz en une station touristique célèbre en France et en Europe, et les transformations de la culture locale qui était une partie importante de l'expérience touristique au Pays basque. La participation de la population à la création d'une culture folklorique fut fondamentale pour son existence et pour le succès touristique de la France entière. Le soutien des gouvernements du milieu du siècle aux initiatives culturelles locales fut nécessaire aussi pour l'achèvement et la maturation d'une idée de la France comme unitaire mais culturellement différenciée qui définit le début de la Troisième République.
Validation and exploratory factor analysis of Urdu Version of Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire
Authors: Hussain Sana Muhammad , Zuberi Bader Faiyaz , Rasheed Tazeen , Ali Faiza Sadaqat , Majid Erum
Published: November 2022

Objective: To present and validate psychometric properties of Urdu version CLDQ, yet another objective was to do exploratory factorial analysis (EFA) of CLDQ Urdu version.

Methods: This Cross-sectional Analytical Study was conducted at Dr. Ruth K.M. Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi during the period Nov. 15, 2021 to Jan. 30, 2022. CLDQ Urdu questionnaire was self-administered by the patients. The questionnaire consisted of 29 items and responses were recorded on 7-point Likert type scale. Reliability testing was done by Cronbach’s α, test value of >0.7 is taken as reliable. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted with principal component analysis with varimax rotation. Adequacies for conduction of EFA depended on Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) value of ≥0.5 and Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity (BTS) of ≤0.05. Mean CLDQ Urdu scores were also compared with Child Class using ANOVA and post-hoc analysis was done.

Results: A total of 320 patients were selected after informed consent. All conditions for adequate EFA were met (Cronbach’s α =.949; KMO = .846; BTS ≤.001). Mean CLDQ Urdu score was 156.74 in male and 133.27 in female (p<.001). Child Class-A had best quality of life with score of 186.63 ±6.91 and Child Class-C had the worst with scores of 109.78 ±21.33. EFA resulted in reduction of domains to 4 (Muscular Symptoms, Emotional Symptoms, Abdominal Symptoms & Somnolence) & reduced the number of items from 29 to 11.

Conclusion: Urdu CLDQ version is validated in our settings. EFA resulted in reductions in number of domains and items. CLDQ Urdu showed that quality of life decreases significantly with Child Class.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6602

How to cite this: Hussain SM, Zuberi BF, Rasheed T, Ali FS, Majid E. Validation and exploratory factor analysis of Urdu Version of Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6602

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Comparison of different approaches of percutaneous vertebroplasty in the treatment of osteoporotic spinal compression fractures and analysis of influencing factors of re-fracture
Authors: Bu Dan , He Xuejun
Published: November 2022

Objective: To compare the functional and radiological outcome of different approaches of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF), and to analyze the factors affecting postoperative re-fracture in patients with OVCF.

Methods: Medical data of 76 patients with OVCF who underwent PVP in our hospital from January 2021 to December 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Based on the different intraoperative approaches, patients were divided into Unilateral-group (n=36) and Bilateral-group (n=40). The perioperative indexes, clinical efficacy, and spinal nerve function of the two groups were compared. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the risk factors of postoperative re-fracture in patients with OVCF. The functional outcome was assessed with Oswestry disability index (ODI), American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) nerve function classification and pain with Visual analogue scale (VAS). The radiological outcome was assessed by noting change of anterior vertebral height and change of kyphosis Cobb angle.

Results: The amount of intraoperative bleeding, the number of X-ray irradiation and the volume of injected bone cement in the Unilateral-group were lower, and the operation time was shorter than Bilateral-group (all P<0.05). One week after the operation, the anterior height of the vertebral body was higher, the Cobb angle of kyphosis was lower, the VAS score was higher, and the ASIA grade was lower in the Unilateral-group compared to the Bilateral-group (P<0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that the age, bone mineral density, volume of bone cement injection and PD were risk factors of postoperative re-fracture in patients with OVCF.

Conclusion: Unilateral PVP treatment of OVCF has the advantages of less intraoperative bleeding, less X-ray irradiation and shorter operation time. At the same time, bilateral PVP is associated with improved bone cement dispersion, and the effect of improving patients’ pain is better than that in the Unilateral PVP. Postoperative risk of re-fracture in OVCF patients correlated with age, bone mineral density, amount of bone cement injection and pedicle diameter.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.7069

How to cite this: Bu D, He X. Comparison of different approaches of percutaneous vertebroplasty in the treatment of osteoporotic spinal compression fractures and analysis of influencing factors of re-fracture. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.7069

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Latent profile analysis of adaptation types and stress among medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea
Authors: Park Kwi Hwa , Im Sun Ju , Kyung Sun Young , Yune So Jung
Published: November 2022

Objective: This study aimed to identify profile groups based on personality traits and coping strategies exhibited by medical students in the context of COVID-19.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey and latent profile analysis to investigate differences in stressors, psychological distress, and stress levels with academic variables. We collected data online (Google survey form) in November and December 2021. The participants included a total of 260 1st and 2nd year medical students, all completed questionnaires containing the following sections: Big Five Inventory, coping strategies, COVID-19 stressors, Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, and stress level with academic variables. For analysis, a latent profile analysis, ANOVA, and χ2 were used.

Results: The results reveal the three following profile groups: adaptive (lowest neuroticism, low mental disengagement), middle-adaptive (moderate neuroticism, low mental disengagement), and maladaptive (highest neuroticism and mental disengagement), respectively comprising 25.0%, 39.2%, and 35.8% of the study sample. There were no statistically significant intergroup differences regarding grade (χ2=3.345, p=0.188) or gender (χ2=1.197, p=0.550). The maladaptive group was strongly associated with perceived stress during the COVID-19 pandemic (p<0.001).

Conclusion: These findings highlight the value of considering profile groups when determining whether students require additional support during pandemics.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.7196

How to cite this: Park KH, Im SJ, Kyung SY, Yune SJ. Latent profile analysis of adaptation types and stress among medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.7196

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
THE MAIN IDEA AS AN ELEMENT OF THE CULTURAL-PHILOSOPHICAL MODEL OF A LITERARY AND ARTISTIC WORK: SOME METHODOLOGICAL QUESTIONS
Authors: Makarchuk Ivan Yu.
Published: November 2022

The author of this article, as a research method, develops the general theoretical foundations of the cultural-philosophical model of a literary and artistic work, which can be used in the study of the creative heritage of various writers. The structural elements of the cultural-philosophical model of a literary and artistic work, along with the main idea, include: the sum of humanitarian studies of a literary and artistic work, the concept sphere of the corresponding literary and artistic work, the biography of the writer, as well as the genre. This article aims to describe some methodological issues related to the constitution of the main idea of a literary and artistic work as an element of a cultural-philosophical model.

The basis of the research is formed by general scientific methods and interdisciplinary methods of scientific knowledge. In the course of working on the article, the author turned to cultural and philosophical analysis, as well as content analysis of scientific literature.

Based on the results of the study, the author comes to the conclusion that one of the conditions for the productivity and completeness of the cultural-philosophical study of a literary and artistic work is the search for its main idea, which reflects the features and priorities of the author’s philosophical thinking. The results of the study can be used not only in research of philosophical and cultural content, but also in works of a wide humanitarian profile, as well as in the educational process.
Secondary School in Russia: the Collective Portrait and Prospects
Authors: Vasil'chenko N.
Published: November 2022

The article presents the detailed analysis of a secondary school in the Russian Federation. The following blocks have been studied: ‘Strategy for education’, ‘Learners’, ‘Process of education’, ‘Teachers’, ‘Education environment’, ‘Management’, ‘Financial means and Information support’, each of which includes from 5 to 20 indicators. Each indicator was examined separately on the basis of the latest statistical data, political, social, psychological and pedagogical researches and received an assumed index from 1 to 9. It laid the foundation for the design of the secondary education establishment (SEE) model, the major purpose of which is the introduction of the cohesive and detailed portrait of the SEE in order to enhance its development, equity and quality of education. In conclusion, each block of indicators has got the outcome that together permit not only boosting the quality of education, but also upgrading the school design along with raising its social status. Moreover, some scientific deficiencies have been detected that may serve a road map for new research in pedagogy and linked disciplines.
Informatics of Innovation: The Way of High School Students Towards Future Participation in Import Substitution
Authors: Bychkov Anatoliy
Published: November 2022

Many high school students will have to participate in import substitution processes in their future professional activities.

Import substitution is the creation of goods and services that are in demand by citizens and society, competitive with foreign analogues or superior in quality.

Only marketable products that meet the needs of citizens and society for sustainable development and self-realization are in demand.

Innovative products are focused on meeting the needs of citizens and society.

The creation of innovative goods and services is a controlled process, reproduced according to a specific algorithm, presented in the form of a logistic curve.

The Federal State Educational Standard of Secondary General Education provides for the formation of high school students' motivation and ability to innovate, as well as the ability to carry out individual innovative projects using education informatization technologies, taking into account the identified needs of citizens and society.

This contributes to the formation of the orientation of high school students towards practical patriotic self-realization in the processes of import substitution in their future professional activities.