bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to apply coronary CT angiography in patients with stable chest pain
Authors: Genders Tessa
Published: November 2022

Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) is an excellent first-line diagnostic test for patients with stable chest pain and suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Patient factors, local expertise, and availability remain crucial when choosing CCTA versus a conventional stress imaging as the first test. If the pretest probability of CAD is low to intermediate, a negative CCTA reliably excludes the presence of obstructive CAD. When CCTA reveals obstructive CAD, further evaluation of intermediate lesions is necessary to assess their haemodynamic significance. CCTA with fractional flow measurements can provide a comprehensive anatomical and functional assessment of CAD, which allows for the selective referral to invasive coronary angiography for patients who are most likely to benefit from revascularization.
Coronary anomalies
Authors: Chang Andrew , Rogers Ian , Nieman Koen
Published: November 2022

Coronary artery anomalies (CAAs) are found in approximately 1–2% of the population. Although most CAAs are benign, approximately 20% manifest with a spectrum of clinical significance. Many CAAs are isolated primary anomalies, but they can be associated with other congenital heart diseases. In this chapter, CAAs are organized based on their deviation from normal coronary arteries in origin, termination, and body/course of the vessel. Each will be discussed in the context of its epidemiology, clinical significance, and special imaging considerations.
Normal dimensions on cardiac CT
Authors: Muscogiuri Giuseppe
Published: November 2022

Beyond the evaluation of coronary arteries during the acquisition of coronary CT angiography, it is possible to evaluate other cardiac structures. Indeed, CCTA allows the assessment of atria, ventricles, aortic root and ascending aorta, pulmonary veins, pericardium, and pulmonary arteries. The same scan protocol used for the evaluation of coronary arteries can be used for the assessment of all these cardiac structures except for pericardium, which can also be assessed without the administration of contrast agent.
CT prior to transcatheter/surgical aortic valve replacement
Authors: Guglielmo Marco
Published: November 2022

Aortic stenosis is the most common primary valve disease leading to surgery or catheter intervention in Europe and North America, with a growing prevalence due to the ageing population. Cardiac CT has become essential in the preprocedural evaluation of candidates for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), offering a detailed assessment of the aortic annulus, aorta, peripheral access, and suitable fluoroscopic projection angle for the implantation procedure. Moreover, cardiac CT identifies extracardiac and extravascular findings that might influence the prognosis of TAVI patients.
Electron beam physics
Authors: Pitchford George , Nisbet Andy
Published: November 2022

This chapter, ‘Electron beam physics’, covers the physics of electrons, the predominant charged particle used in radiotherapy with an outline of the clinical applications. The chapter describes the dose distribution of electron beams with a detailed description and explanation of the depth dose curve and how this is influenced by the electron beam energy, tissue density and inhomogeneity, the size of the field, shielding, and surface obliquity. The characteristics of the electron isodose pattern is described. The relationship between the beam energy and build-up effect (skin sparing) is discussed. The use of bolus when planning election beam treatments is described.
Beam therapy equipment
Authors: Severn Ondrée
Published: November 2022

‘Beam therapy equipment’ introduces the technology used to produce photon and electron beams for the treatment of cancer, from the megavoltage photons and electrons produced by linear accelerators to treat deep seated disease to the low energy range X-rays used to treat very superficial tumours. The basic principle of X-ray production is reviewed and the key elements of a linear accelerator are described. Feedback loops and control systems used to ensure stability of the radiation beam are discussed. The on-board imaging equipment used to facilitate image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) is presented, as is equipment specifically designed to facilitate the delivery of stereotactic radiotherapy. The chapter concludes with a brief discussion on proton accelerators and the radiotherapy equipment lifecycle.
Anti-glomerular basement membrane diseases and thrombotic microangiopathy treated with rituximab
Authors: Honda Nanase , Shigehara Rihiro , Furuhashi Kazunori , Nagai Yoshiki , Yokogawa Naoto
Published: November 2022

A 68-year-old male patient presented with a 2-week history of malaise and anuria. Renal replacement therapy with haemodialysis was begun for acute kidney injury. His anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) antibody titre was 3060 U/ml. Based on this finding, anti-GBM disease was diagnosed. Plasmapheresis and high-dose glucocorticoid therapy were begun, but his haemolytic anaemia and thrombocytopenia progressed. A disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin type 1 motif, 13 (ADAMTS-13) activity decreased to 33%, but no inhibitor was detected. Secondary thrombotic microangiopathy was suspected, and rituximab therapy was begun. The addition of rituximab is thought to have further reduced the anti-GBM antibodies, prevented recurrence, stabilised the platelet count, and facilitated the patient’s withdrawal from plasmapheresis and glucocorticoid therapy. Rituximab may be a viable therapeutic option for anti-GBM diseases complicated with thrombotic microangiopathy.
The effect of sleep on intrusive memories in daily life: a systematic review and meta-analysis of trauma film experiments
Authors: Davidson Per , Marcusson-Clavertz David
Published: November 2022

Study Objectives

To synthesize the literature on the effect of sleep versus wake on the frequency and distress of intrusive memories in everyday life after watching film clips with distressing content as a proxy for traumatic experiences.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review by searching PubMed and PsychInfo. The last search was conducted on January 31, 2022. We included experimental studies comparing sleep and wake groups on intrusions using ecological diary methods, whereas studies lacking a wake control condition or relying solely on intrusion-triggering tasks or retrospective questionnaires were excluded. Meta-analyses were performed to evaluate the results. Risks of biases were assessed following the Cochrane guidelines.

Results

Across 7 effect sizes from 6 independent studies, sleep (n = 192), as compared to wake (n = 175), significantly reduced the number of intrusive memories (Hedges’ g = −0.26, p = .04, 95% CI [−0.50, −0.01]), but not the distress associated with them (Hedges’ g = −0.14, p = .25, 95% CI [−0.38, 0.10]).

Conclusions

Although the results suggest that sleep reduces the number of intrusions, there is a strong need for high-powered pre-registered studies to confirm this effect. Risks of biases in the reviewed work concern the selection of the reported results, measurement of the outcome, and failure to adhere to the intervention. Limitations with the current meta-analysis include the small number of studies, which comprised only English-language articles, and the fact that it was not pre-registered.
Meta-analysis of serum procalcitonin diagnostic test accuracy for osteomyelitis and septic arthritis in children
Authors: Zhang Hai-Tao , Li Chao , Huang Yi-Zheng , Huang Yong
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of serum procalcitonin (PCT) for osteomyelitis and septic arthritis in children. PubMed, EMBase, and Cochrane Library were searched until 10 August 2021, for eligible literature focusing on PCT for the diagnosis of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis. Four articles with six studies were included in the diagnostic meta-analysis, a total of 654 children were examined for bacterial cultures in PCT, osteomyelitis, and septic arthritis. The results of diagnostic meta-analysis showed that the PCT had a sensitivity of 0.72, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.65−0.79), specificity of 0.90, 95% CI (0.87−0.93), positive likelihood ratio (LR) of 3.87, 95% CI (2.53−5.90), negative LR of 0.39, 95% CI (0.22−0.70), and diagnostic odds ratio was 13.13, 95% CI (6.46−26.66), for the detection of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis using bacterial culture as the gold standard. Based on the summary receiver operating characteristic curve of PCT, it was found that the area under the curve of PCT was 0.88. In the evaluation of publication bias, the result of the regression line test showed that there was not publication bias (bias = 13.72; 95% CI, −1.84 to 29.28; P = 0.07). This study provided systematic review of the published literature on the diagnosis of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis in children using PCT, which may serve as a biomarker for diagnosis of osteomyelitis, but it has no direct evidences to support the diagnosis of septic arthritis. However, the specific optimal cutoff value of PCT and specific population still needed to be verified by large sample studies.
Prophylactic cranial irradiation in small cell lung cancer: an update
Authors: Chu Xiao , Zhu Zhengfei
Published: November 2022

Purpose of review

The current review presents recent updates in the seminal literature of research on prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) in small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

Recent findings

Brain MRI restaging before the administration of PCI reveals a substantial proportion of brain metastasis in baseline brain metastasis free extensive-stage SCLC (ES-SCLC) and limited-stage SCLC (LS-SCLC). Posthoc analyses from the CASPIAN and IMpower133 trials revealed decreases in brain metastasis rates in ES-SCLC treated with chemoimmunotherapy relative to the brain metastasis rates in ES-SCLC treated with chemotherapy alone. A recent meta-analysis of literature published after the landmark 1999 Auperin meta-analysis confirmed the survival benefit of PCI in LS-SCLC patients. A recent study employing PET before and after PCI demonstrated that hippocampal avoidance -PCI (HA-PCI) preserved the metabolic activity of the hippocampi compared with regular PCI. Two phase III trials evaluating neurocognitive functions after HA-PCI versus PCI have yielded conflicting results. Ongoing clinical trials (MAVERICK, PRIMALung, NRG CC003, NCT04535739, NCT04829708 and NCT03514849) regarding PCI versus MRI surveillance and HA-PCI versus PCI were also discussed.

Currently, the indications for PCI in SCLC are under question in the modern MRI era. Result from prospective phase III, MRI staged and MRI monitored RCTs are expected to elucidate the role of PCI in LS-SCLC and ES-SCLC. Preliminary results indicated that adding immunotherapy to chemotherapy may reduce brain metastasis rate in SCLC. Further data to this aspect are warranted to determine the role of PCI in the immuno-chemotherapy era. The future direction for PCI should be the comprehensive integration of personalized patient selection, HA-PCI utilization and potential employment of other neurocognitive preservation strategies.
Co-transfer of functionally interdependent genes contributes to genome mosaicism in lambdoid phages
Authors: Kupczok Anne , Bailey Zachary M. , Refardt Dominik , Wendling Carolin C.
Published: November 2022

Lambdoid (or Lambda-like) phages are a group of related temperate phages that can infect

Escherichia coli

and other gut bacteria. A key characteristic of these phages is their mosaic genome structure, which served as the basis for the ‘modular genome hypothesis’. Accordingly, lambdoid phages evolve by transferring genomic regions, each of which constitutes a functional unit. Nevertheless, it is unknown which genes are preferentially transferred together and what drives such co-transfer events. Here we aim to characterize genome modularity by studying co-transfer of genes among 95 distantly related lambdoid (pro-)phages. Based on gene content, we observed that the genomes cluster into 12 groups, which are characterized by a highly similar gene content within the groups and highly divergent gene content across groups. Highly similar proteins can occur in genomes of different groups, indicating that they have been transferred. About 26 % of homologous protein clusters in the four known operons (i.e. the early left, early right, immunity and late operon) engage in gene transfer, which affects all operons to a similar extent. We identified pairs of genes that are frequently co-transferred and observed that these pairs tend to be near one another on the genome. We find that frequently co-transferred genes are involved in related functions and highlight interesting examples involving structural proteins, the cI repressor and Cro regulator, proteins interacting with DNA, and membrane-interacting proteins. We conclude that epistatic effects, where the functioning of one protein depends on the presence of another, play an important role in the evolution of the modular structure of these genomes.
First Detection of Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease virus in the European Union, Italy-2022
Authors: Lorusso Alessio , Cappai Stefano , Loi Federica , Pinna Luigia , Ruiu Angelo , Puggioni Giantonella , Guercio Annalisa , Purpari Giuseppa , Vicari Domenico , Sghaier Soufien , Zientara Stephan , Spedicato Massimo , Hammami Salah , Ben Hassine Thameur , Portanti Ottavio , Breard Emmanuel , Sailleu Corinne , Ancora Massimo , Di Sabatino Daria , Morelli Daniela , Calistri Paolo , Savini Giovanni
Published: November 2022

We describe the first detection in the European Union of the epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV). EHDV-8 has been detected in cattle farms in Sardinia and Sicily. The virus has a direct Northern African origin as its genome is identical (>99.9% nucleotide sequence identity) to EHDV-8 strains detected in Tunisia in 2021/2022.
Epilepsy-linked kinase CDKL5 phosphorylates voltage-gated calcium channel Cav2.3, altering inactivation kinetics and neuronal excitability
Authors: Sampedro-Castañeda Marisol , Baltussen Lucas L. , Lopes Andre T. , Qiu Yichen , Sirvio Liina , Mihaylov Simeon R. , Claxton Suzanne , Richardson Jill C. , Lignani Gabriele , Ultanir Sila
Published: November 2022

Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) are a group of rare childhood disorders characterized by severe epilepsy and cognitive deficits. Numerous DEE genes have been discovered thanks to advances in genomic diagnosis, yet putative molecular links between these disorders are unknown. CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD, DEE2), one of the most common genetic epilepsies, is caused by loss-of-function mutations in the brain-enriched kinase CDKL5. To elucidate CDKL5 function, we looked for CDKL5 substrates using a SILAC-based phosphoproteomic screen. We identified the voltage-gated Ca2+channel Cav2.3 (encoded byCACNA1E) as a novel physiological target of CDKL5 in mice and humans. Recombinant channel electrophysiology and interdisciplinary characterization of Cav2.3 phosphomutant mice revealed that loss of Cav2.3 phosphorylation leads to channel gain-of-function via slower inactivation and enhanced cholinergic stimulation, resulting in increased neuronal excitability. Our results thus show that CDD is partly a channelopathy. The properties of unphosphorylated Cav2.3 closely resemble those described forCACNA1Egain-of-function mutations causing DEE69, a disorder sharing clinical features with CDD. We show that these two single-gene diseases are mechanistically related and could be ameliorated with Cav2.3 inhibitors.
Can fraud in Islamic financial institutions be prevented using high standards of shariah governance?
Authors: Swandaru Randi , Muneeza Aishath
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aims to scrutinize the modus operandi of global financial frauds in Islamic financial institutions and assesses whether those frauds can be prevented using High Standards of Shariah Governance.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research methodology is deployed to conduct this study by analyzing and scrutinizing academic journals, reports, regulatory guidelines and articles.

Findings

The findings in this study show that the modus operandi ranges from bribery, forged documents, unlawful profiteering, credit limit allowance ignorance, Ponzi scheme, culprit collaboration from inside and outside the banks. This paper also argues that the centralized and high-standard Shariah governance framework better prevents fraud by providing better Shariah supervision and risk management measures.

Research limitations/implications

The observations in this study are limited to financial fraud at Islamic financial institutions that happened in the 21st century with more than $100m in financial loss or penalty.

Originality/value

This study may contribute significantly by providing insight for regulators to strengthen the Shariah governance framework in their respective countries. It also benefits Islamic financial institutions by enhancing their capacity to anticipate future financial fraud.
A preliminary framework for assessing lean implementation in higher education
Authors: Cross Jennifer , Joshi Madina , Jensen Paula
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aims to develop and implement an initial framework for assessing progress in lean implementation within an higher education institution (HEI). It includes developing preliminary findings regarding the impacts of lean implementation in the HEI case organization and comparing outcomes from this assessment to outcomes from other published sources.

Design/methodology/approach

Existing literature on lean, particularly in an HEI context, was used to develop a preliminary lean assessment framework for HEIs. Quality and continuous improvement literature were also compared to the proposed assessment framework to further validate the approach. This assessment framework was then utilized to evaluate lean implementation at a large public university (LPU) in the U.S.

Findings

The paper presents the framework as well as the major findings from the Large Public University (LPU)’s assessment. The assessment findings are further compared to other HEI quality measures and lean assessments done in other industries. Overall, the findings suggest that the assessment framework provides valuable insight to HEI organizations implementing lean.

Originality/value

The research intends to support lean assessment standardization efforts by proposing a preliminary lean assessment framework for the HEI, grounded in research trends, research findings, identified gaps in the research, and case study outcomes. To the research team's knowledge, this is the first lean assessment framework proposed for HEIs and also contributes to research gaps related to service industry frameworks and those containing both practices and outcomes. The framework can be used by other researchers as a foundation for additional conceptual and empirical developments on the topic and by researchers and practitioners seeking to understand and assess lean implementation progress in the HEI.
The interrelations between religiosity and consumer well-being: evidence on coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Abdelrazek Nour , Hammad Hadeer , Adib Hagar , El-Bassiouny Noha
Published: November 2022

Purpose

In light of the role of religious coping as an alleviation mechanism, the COVID-19 pandemic presents a potential opportunity to build on the literature related to religious coping in a new context. Hence, the study aims to examine the potential role of religious coping in enhancing consumer well-being (CWB) during the pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative approach has been employed, with the use of web surveys, to investigate the relationship between CWB and religiosity among a global sample.

Findings

Results showed that religiosity has a significant positive impact on satisfaction with life among females only. On comparing between Arabs and non-Arabs, there was a significant positive relationship between religiosity and satisfaction with life among Arabs.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper is extending the religiosity and spirituality literature by studying the potential role of religiosity in improving individual well-being during a novel contextual pandemic situation, an area that is still underresearched in the literature.
Cloud computing projects: critical success factors
Authors: Correia Silvia Regina Veronezi , Martens Cristina Dai Prá
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to identify the critical success factors (CSFs) of information technology (IT) projects using cloud computing. CSFs are variables that can influence the success of projects and therefore need to be identified and managed appropriately.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an exploratory qualitative study with 23 experts in cloud computing projects through semi-structured interviews. The data was analyzed using content analysis.

Findings

The results present a list of CSFs for projects in a cloud computing environment. The study demonstrated that the CSF with greater relevance to cloud projects is the team’s technical capacity, followed by the support of senior management and the team’s soft skills. In addition, results demonstrated that contract item management is a limiting factor for cloud projects.

Research limitations/implications

The sample comprised only Brazilian experts, so it may not represent the same scenario as in other locations. The CSF ratio for cloud computing projects may vary depending on the company’s maturity in projects of this nature.

Practical implications

The CSF relationship can guide managers in properly conducting cloud computing projects, contributing to minimizing the risks and challenges that may interfere with the project.

Social implications

The relationship of the CSFs in cloud computing projects proposed fills a gap in studies specifically related to this context and tries to minimize project managers’ stress.

Originality/value

Contract items for the cloud context are added to the CSF literature in IT projects, which have not been addressed so far.
A physical modelling study of waveform amplification effects of reservoir heterogeneity on time‐lapse seismic attribute analysis
Authors: He Yan‐Xiao , Wang ShangXu , Dong Chunhui , Tang Genyang , Zhang Jialiang , Shi Peidong , Feng Zhanxun , Zhang Fengqi , Liu Junzhou , Li Guofa , Shi Lei
Published: November 2022

Hydrocarbon depletion causes fluid saturation and pressure changes, resulting in perturbations in reservoir elasticities and, hence, observable time‐lapse (or 4D) seismic responses. Using controlled physical modelling experiments, we aim to evaluate reservoir heterogeneities‐related scattering effects on seismic signatures and assess pore‐fluid substitution impacts on the 4D seismic attributes. Physical modelling experiments reveal that wave propagations in heterogeneous rocks produce substantially magnified 4D attribute differences related to fluid replacements, contrary to seismic features in homogeneous rocks. In particular, reflected waveforms from the gas‐filled scenario exhibit more apparent discontinuities and amplitude variations than water‐ and oil‐saturated scenarios in the heterogeneous regions. It is interesting to see that fluid substitution‐induced 4D seismic differences are observable within the weakly heterogeneous region but significantly strong within the highly heterogeneous region. Although it is expected that substituting oil with water produces weak perturbations in reservoir elasticities, the 4D difference observations between time‐varying records are apparent. This implies that in addition to reservoir heterogeneities‐induced amplifying effects, 4D seismic anomalies are also caused by pore‐fluid changes. Due to mesoscopic rock heterogeneities, seismic responses are complicated, and 4D difference estimates will be amplified strongly and, thus, unable to quantify variations in fluid saturation appropriately. This implies that obvious difference volumes in the underburden regions do not necessarily correspond to significant variations in pore‐fluid. Subsequently, two end‐member rock physics models were applied to predict the widest range of velocity variations and pore‐fluid behaviours. Although mesoscopic heterogeneities cause varying degrees of difficulties for hydrocarbon detection, the deformed waveform‐induced seismic attribute anomalies, which are often greatly amplified, may be beneficial for more accurately identifying reservoir fluids and monitoring their minor variations in practice.
INDIGENOUS URBANISM AS AN ANALYTIC: Towards Indigenous Urban Theory
Authors: Dorries Heather
Published: November 2022

In Canada, the terms Indigeneity and urbanity have been configured by colonialism and are often understood as antithetical. Given the baggage these terms carry, conceptualizing Indigenous urbanism in a manner that does not replicate the same problems these categories suggest is an important intellectual task for both urban and Indigenous studies. In this essay, I propose that Indigenous urbanism might be best understood as an analytic that highlights a dialectical relationship between Indigeneity and urbanism, marking both concepts as constantly in flux and open to contestation. Indigenous urbanism marks urban space as potentially both liberatory and oppressive, and as the basis for a liberatory research agenda.
Using public surveys to rapidly profile biological invasions in hard‐to‐monitor areas
Authors: Licata F. , Mohanty N. P. , Crottini A. , Andreone F. , Harison R. F. , Randriamoria T. M. , Freeman K. , Muller B. , Birkinshaw C. , Tilahimena A. , Ficetola G. F.
Published: November 2022

Understanding the impact and dynamics of invasive alien species (IAS) is essential for tailoring appropriate management plans. This information can be difficult to obtain in the short term, and intrinsic difficulties of monitoring hard‐to‐reach areas may hamper prompt estimation of IAS distributions. Using the case of the invasive Asian common toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus) in Madagascar, we show how public surveys coupled with a multi‐analytical approach can promptly provide accurate information on invasion dynamics and impacts. On the basis of key‐informant responses, we built polynomial regressions to investigate the spatiotemporal invasion patterns, false‐positive occupancy models to estimate species occupancy, and mixed‐effect models to evaluate the public perception and attitudes. The invasion followed a linear expansion of approx. 2 km year−1, with human‐mediated dispersal facilitating the spread of the species. Toad occupancy decreased towards the invasion front and increased in the southern portion of its range. Negative perception decreased in urban areas, where people were less concerned by toad impacts on ecosystems, and in recently invaded localities, suggesting density‐ or time‐dependent effects. We also identified 12 potential impacts, with “loss of domestic apiaries”, “poisoning of poultry” and “decline of snakes” standing out for prevalence and potential severity. Our results bring important insights into the invasion dynamics and the human‐toad interactions in Madagascar, highlighting the versatility of public surveys to obtain essential information for invasion science and management, which can be especially useful in hard‐to‐monitor regions of the world with a low in‐country capacity to counter invasive species.
Comparison of 2 medium cutoff dialyzers versus on‐line hemodiafiltration regarding depurative ability and albumin loss: An uncontrolled clinical research
Authors: Martínez‐Miguel Patricia , Gimena Muñoz Rocío , Barrionuevo González Marta , López‐Ongil Susana , Moro María Ángeles , Lizasoain Ignacio , Rodríguez‐Puyol Diego , García Segura Juan Manuel
Published: November 2022

Background

Hemodialysis (HD) techniques that best remove molecules in the middle to high molecular weight range are on‐line hemodiafiltration (OL‐HDF) and HD with medium cut‐off (MCO) membranes. The aim of this study was to compare efficacy and safety of OL‐HDF with FxCordiax HDF 800™, with HD with 2 MCO dialyzers: Theranova 500® and the new Elisio 21HX™ dialyzer.

Methods

Fourteen patients following treatment with OL‐HDF using FxCordiax HDF 800™ were randomized to receive a consecutive 1‐week HD treatment with Theranova 500® and Elisio 21HX™.The reduction rate (RR) of differently sized molecules was compared, as well as the variation rate in molecules smaller than 1000, detected by nuclear magnetic resonance based chemometrics (metabolomics). Albumin loss in dialysate was quantified.

Results

Lower RRs were found for molecules around 20 000 with Elisio 21HX™ compared to OL‐ HDF (RR prolactin 58.5% versus 66.7%, p = 0.034; RR Kappa light chain 63.1% versus 71.8%, p = 0.010). Albumin loss per session was higher with Theranova 500® than with OL‐HDF and with Elisio 21HX™ (2249.9 ± 714.1 mg, 815.2 ± 474.0 mg, 442.9 ± 135.9 mg, p < 0.001, respectively). Metabolomic studies suggested, by semi‐quantitative analysis, a greater depurative capacity of OL‐HDF, followed by Elisio 21HX™, and then Theranova 500®.

Conclusions

In this study, HD with Theranova 500® has proven to be very similar in efficacy to OL‐HDF, although with a significantly higher albumin loss. HD with Elisio 21HX™ resulted in lower removal of molecules around 20 000 compared to OL‐HDF, with no significant difference compared to Theranova 500®, and with less albumin loss than Theranova 500®.
Quinoline‐based heterocyclic hydrazones: Design, synthesis, anti‐plasmodial assessment, and mechanistic insights
Authors: Sharma Bharvi , Chowdhary Shefali , Legac Jenny , Rosenthal Philip J. , Kumar Vipan
Published: November 2022

A library of quinoline‐based hydrazones bearing 1H‐1,2,3‐triazole core was designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their antiplasmodial activity against the drug‐resistant Plasmodium falciparum W2 strain. The inclusion of pyrazine‐2‐carboxylic acid with a flexible propyl spacer afforded the most active scaffold with an IC50 value of 0.26 μM. Mechanistically, the compound inhibited heme to hemozoin formation, as demonstrated by UV–vis and mass spectral studies.
The relationship of body image and weight: A cross‐sectional observational study of a Dutch female sample
Authors: Makarawung Dennis J. S. , Boers Mijke J. , van den Brink Femke , Monpellier Valerie M. , Woertman Liesbeth , Mink van der Molen Aebele B. , Geenen Rinie
Published: November 2022

Body image concerns may play a role in weight changing behaviour. The objective of this study was to assess body image in different weight groups. Participants reported satisfaction with (AE) and investment in (AO) appearance, and the discrepancy between current and ideal body size (BS). These scores were compared between weight groups based on body‐mass index (BMI) using analysis of variance. One‐sample t‐tests and Cohen's d effect sizes examined the magnitude of differences within each weight group relative to neutral midpoints of the scales; cluster analysis identified body image profiles. A total of 27 896 women were included in this study. AE scores were highest for people with underweight and normal weight, AO scores were highest for the underweight group and lowest in class III obesity, and BS scores were largest in the obese groups (all p < .001) Cluster analysis identified eight body image profiles. In people with obesity, the most prevalent profiles included a preference for a smaller body and low satisfaction with appearance, but differed in investment in appearance (low vs. high). Most people with underweight were allocated to profiles showing high investment in their appearance, preference of a larger body, but differences in satisfaction with appearance (neutral vs. high). While people with a higher BMI have on average more body image concerns, different body image profiles exist in all weight groups. Future research should examine whether and which individuals in terms of body image profile may benefit more from weight interventions.
Lack of SIRP‐alpha reduces lung cancer growth in mice by promoting anti‐tumour ability of macrophages and neutrophils
Authors: Pan Linyue , Wang Bin , Chen Mengjie , Ma Yuan , Cui Bo , Chen Zhihong , Song Yuanlin , Hu Lijuan , Jiang Zhilong
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Signal regulatory protein‐alpha (SIRPα) is a transmembrane glycoprotein specifically expressed on myeloid cells. Blockade of SIRPα/CD47 interaction is effective in combinational therapy of some cancers. This study aimed to explore into the role and underlying molecular mechanisms of SIRPα in lung cancer growth.

Materials and Methods

A mouse model with lung cancer in wild‐type (WT) and SIRPα‐knockout mouse (KO) mice was established by subcutaneous injection of Lewis murine lung cancer cells (LLC). Circulating monocytes and neutrophils were depleted in mice by intraperitoneal administration of clodronate liposomes and anti‐Ly6G antibody, respectively. Phenotypes and phagocytosis of macrophages and neutrophils were analysed by flow cytometry. Transwell assay was used to analyse LLC cells migration and invasion.

Results

Lack of SIRPα inhibited LLC cells growth in KO mice, associated with reduced infiltrating PD‐1+CD8+ T cells and production of IL‐6 from infiltrating macrophages and neutrophils in tumour tissues. Depletion of circulating monocytes and neutrophils reduced LLC cells growth in WT mice, which was abolished in KO mice. Studies in vitro showed that lack of SIRPα increased M1/M2 ratio, and reduced LLC cell migration and invasion via attenuated IL‐6 secretion. Lack of SIRPα expression in neutrophils effectively increased the cytotoxic activity to LLC cells in vitro.

Conclusions

Lack of SIRPα suppressed lung cancer cell growth in mice, dependent on circulating macrophages and neutrophils, in association with improved phagocytosis and reduced IL‐6 expression.
Changes in the cell composition of the hemolymph in the snail Planorbarius corneus after infection with the trematode Plagiorchis sp.
Authors: Serebryakova Maria K. , Tokmakova Arina S. , Prokhorova Elena E. , Ataev Gennady L.
Published: November 2022

We found two functional populations of hemocytes in the hemolymph of the pulmonate snail Planorbarius corneus: hyalinocytes and granulocytes. The hyalinocytes were much more numerous than granulocytes. Each population was subdivided into subpopulations based on morphological and functional characteristics. The hyalinocyte population was represented by two subpopulations differing in size, granularity, and ability to form pseudopodia. In snails infected with the trematodes Plagiorchis sp., the cellular composition of the hemolymph changes, with hemocytes being mostly represented by granulocytes. This phenomenon is associated with the fact that granulocytes form a hemocytic paletot on the surface of sporocysts of Plagiorchis sp. It is suggested that pulmonate molluscs have one lineage of hemolymph cells. Hematopoietic stem cells can divide, ensuring multiplication of prohemocytes. The latter differentiate into hyalinocytes, which, in turn, differentiate into granulocytes.
Polymorphisms in some proinflammatory genes (TNFα and β, IL‐1β, IL‐6, ADAM17) in severe chronic venous disease
Authors: Slonková Veronika , Vašků Anna , Vašků Vladimír
Published: November 2022

Background

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is a common disorder of lower extremities.

Objectives

The study was scheduled to investigate the relationship between polymorphisms in major proinflammatory genes TNF α (−238 A/G; −308 A/G), TNF β (NcoI), IL‐1β (+3953 T/C); IL‐6 (−174 G/C; −596 G/C) and ADAM17 (3′TACE) and CVD risk. Genotype–phenotype study was calculated to test possible association between examined genotypes and phenotypes of CVD.

Methods

Finally, 150 CVD patients and 227 control subjects were enrolled to the study.

Genotypes in proinflammatory gene polymorphisms were identified from isolated DNA by PCR method and restriction analysis.

Results

Significant differences in genotype distribution/allelic frequencies in TNF β gene, IL‐1 β gene and in ADAM17 gene polymorphisms were found between CVD women and control ones. In the genotype–phenotype study, identified genotypes were associated with arterial hypertension (ADAM17, IL‐6‐men), ischaemic heart disease (TNF α and β genes), diabetes mellitus (ADAM17‐women, TNF β‐men), age of CVD onset (TNF α and IL‐6), ulceration (ADAM17), duration of ulceration (ADAM17), ulceration recurrence (ADAM17‐women), home care necessity (TNF α), varices surgery (TNF α), erysipelas development (ADAM17‐men) and tumour development (TNF α).

Conclusion

Studying of these polymorphisms associations can help us better identify patients at higher risk of developing severe CVD.
Return to community living and mortality after moving to a long‐term care facility: A nationally representative cohort study
Authors: Lam Kenneth , Cenzer Irena , Covinsky Kenneth E.
Published: November 2022

Background

Recent long‐term care facility (LTCF) policy has focused on transitioning nursing home (NH) residents back to community settings, yet we lack recent descriptions of this phenomenon and how it compares in assisted living (AL).

Methods

Using the National Health and Aging Trends Study, we studied adults over age 65 who had moved from community living into an LTCF between 2011 and 2018. Persons or their proxies reported residence in annual interviews. NH was defined by facility staff. ALs were multi‐unit buildings helping with activities of daily living. We excluded temporary short‐stay NH patients and independent AL residents. Our primary outcome was cumulative incidence of return to community living, with death as co‐primary outcome and modeled as a competing risk, stratified by NH versus AL entry. We identified covariates (age, gender, race/ethnicity, dementia, activity limitations, and prior living arrangement) associated with return to community living through bivariate and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Among 739 participants, weighted mean age was 84 years (SD 7.5), 66% were women, 13% were non‐White, 57% had dementia, and 41% entered NH. At 1, 2, and 4 years, the cumulative incidence of return to community living was 2.9% (95% CIs: 1.9%–4.3%), 6.4% (4.7%–8.4%), and 7.4% (5.5%–9.8%); the cumulative incidence of death was 28% (95% CIs: 24%–31%), 44% (40%–48%) and 66% (61%–70%). Outcomes were similar in persons entering NH versus AL. Older persons (aOR 0.88, 95% CI 0.83–0.94), those with dementia (aOR 0.33, 95% CI 0.12–0.88), and those previously living alone (aOR 0.39, 95% CI 0.17–0.89) were less likely to return.

Conclusions

Few returned to community living after entering either NH or AL. Mortality was similar. Results highlight limits in transitioning persons out of LTCFs and the need to observe AL use to ensure policies do not merely displace persons between institutional care sectors.
Surgical management of dystocia in a colobus monkey (Colobus guereza)
Authors: Hinkle Daria , Rooney Tess , Klocke Emily , Eshar David
Published: November 2022

A 14‐year‐old female black and white colobus monkey (Colobus guereza) presented in labor with fetal arms visible protruding from the vulva. Manual manipulation for assisted delivery of the fetus was unsuccessful. Radiographs identified a large fetal skull and hysterotomy was required with ovariohysterectomy elected to follow. The fetus was confirmed to be deceased during hysterotomy, but the dam recovered from the procedure uneventfully. The detailed description of the anesthesia and surgical procedure in this case may aid other clinicians when presented with similar dystocia cases in this species.
Mothers and public health nurses' experiences of sleep problems in children aged 6 months to 3 years: A qualitative study
Authors: Pettersen Sandtrø Hege , Glavin Kari , Størksen Hege Therese , Smogli Holter Marianne Therese , Drozd Filip
Published: November 2022

Aim and Objective

The aim of this study was to explore mothers' and public health nurses' (PHN) experiences with sleep problems in children aged 6 months to 3 years in Norway.

Background

Sleep problems in children are common, affecting their health and development, and their mothers' well‐being. It is also the primary reason parents seek help in well‐child clinics (WCC). However, there is limited knowledge regarding the experiences of these mothers and the public health nurses who consult them.

Design

Qualitative design.

Methods

Four semi‐structured focus group interviews were conducted: two with mothers (n = 14) who had children with sleep problems and two with public health nurses (n = 14) from well‐child clinics. The Framework Method was used for analysing the interviews of mothers. Data from public health nurses were charted onto the analytical framework of maternal data to understand how or whether public health nurses addressed the issues raised by mothers. The study is reported according to the COREQ checklist.

Result

The analysis resulted in two main themes: ‘therapeutic alliance’ (categories ‘alliance ruptures’ and ‘demanding negotiation process’) and ‘reorganisation of identity’ (categories ‘unfulfilled expectations’ and ‘internal tension conflicts’).

Conclusion

Young children's sleep problems present challenges to new mothers due to failed expectations, negatively affecting their feelings as mothers and towards their children, and consequently the reorganising of maternal identity. Most mothers experienced unsatisfactory therapeutic alliances while seeking help from public health nurses because advice was considered overly general, contradictory and unsafe for their children. Public health nurses were mostly aware of the parental consequences of children's sleep problems, but many appeared unable to help because of limited time and knowledge.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Public health nurses need to establish a therapeutic alliance and provide evidence‐based knowledge and guidance on sleep problems while also considering women's reorganisation of identity when becoming mothers.

Clinical Trial Registration

Open Science Framework: osf‐registrations‐6ag38‐v1 (https://archive.org/details/osf‐registrations‐6ag38‐v1).
“Welcome to OBGYN World!” A novel recruitment event for medical students organized by the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Authors: Miyake Ryuta , Komatsu Hiroaki , Ihira Kei , Hasegawa Akihiro , Maeda Yuto , Takemori Satoshi , Noguchi Masashi , Dofutsu Mihoko , Onodera Yohei , Shinagawa Manaka , Suemitsu Tokumasa , Sugita Yosuke , Higuchi Yayoi , Izaki Nanae , Kodera Chisato , Nagase Yoshikazu , Odawara Kei , Ogura Junpei , Osaku Daiken , Ohsuga Takuma , Enomoto Naosuke , Kanai Takahiro , Mishima Sakurako , Morita Keiko , Otsuka Satoyo , Suzuki Kensuke , Miura Kiyonori , Yoshida Yoshio
Published: November 2022

“Welcome to OBGYN World!” A novel recruitment event for medical students organized by the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Since 2012, the number of doctors in Japan who specialize in obstetrics and gynecology has shown a decreasing trend. To increase the number of doctors majoring in obstetrics and gynecology, the Japanese Trainees in Obstetrics and Gynecology subcommittee developed a new recruitment event called Welcome to OBGYN World! (WOW!); the aim of this event was to focus on lower grades of medical students. The present report describes the content of WOW! and the results of a post‐event questionnaire administered to participating students and tutors. WOW! was held online in order to avoid the risk of Coronavirus Disease 2019 infection for participants. Sixty of the 82 medical schools nationwide (73.2%) participated in this event. Overall, there were 285 participating students, ranging from first to fourth grade in medical school, and 106 tutors were involved to teach material at the event. In the post‐event questionnaire survey, 97.6% (248/254) and 100% of the participants stated they now had a high degree of interest in obstetrics and gynecology and found the specialty attractive, respectively. Furthermore, 93.6% (90/94) of the tutors stated that WOW! had helped recruitment activities in their universities. Based on this outcome, members of the Japanese Trainees of Obstetrics and Gynecology subcommittee will now try to increase the number of doctors specializing in obstetrics and gynecology by holding WOW! annually.
Novel Three‐Holed Titanium Plate Fixation during Open Door Laminoplasty for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: Comparison with Conventional Titanium Plate
Authors: Liu Fa‐jing , Liu Yan‐cheng , Hu Yong‐cheng , Ding Xiao‐kun , Miao Jun
Published: November 2022

Objective

For reconstructing the posterior cervical muscular–ligament complex, attachment points and various modified techniques were designed and applied in clinical practice. This study investigated the clinical and radiographic outcomes of open door laminoplasty with modified centerpiece mini‐plate fixation and extensor attachment point reconstruction in the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

Methods

Sixty‐nine patients with CSM who underwent C3–C7 open door laminoplasty at our hospital from January 2016 to May 2018 were divided into two groups: 37 and 32 patients underwent laminoplasty with modified and conventional centerpiece titanium plate fixation (MPF and CPF groups), respectively. Changes in cervical spinal angle (CSA), cervical range of motion (ROM), posterior cervical muscle atrophy, neurological function (Japanese Orthopaedic Association [JOA] score), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and axial symptom severity were compared between the two groups.

Results

There were no significant differences in operative duration (136.7 ± 23.9 vs 128.3 ± 21.5 min, t = 1.525, p > 0.05), volume of intraoperative blood loss (275.9 ± 33.1 vs 268.2 ± 31.6 ml, t = 0.984, p > 0.05), lamina open angle (41.2° ± 4.5° vs 39.4° ± 4.1°, t = 1.726, p > 0.05), and spinal cord drift distance (2.4 ± 0.3 vs 2.3 ± 0.4 mm, t = 1.184, p > 0.05) between the two groups. After surgery, JOA score significantly increased (p < 0.05), and neurological recovery rates were similar (62.7% vs 63.4%, t = 0.208, p > 0.05). The NDI score was significantly decreased in both the groups (p < 0.05); however, the MPF group recovered to a greater degree than the CPF group (8.3 ± 1.2 vs 9.8 ± 1.4) (t = 4.793, p < 0.05). There was no significant change in cervical ROM postoperatively compared with preoperatively in either group (p > 0.05). CSA decreased from 21.7° ± 2.8° to 18.3° ± 2.1°, and posterior cervical muscle cross‐sectional area decreased from 35.2 ± 4.9 cm2 to 31.0 ± 4.1 cm2 in the CPF group (p < 0.05), but no significant change was observed in the MPF group (20.6° ± 2.5° to 20.4° ± 2.6°and 35.9 ± 5.1 to 34.1 ± 4.6 cm2, respectively) (p > 0.05). Postoperative axial symptom severity was significantly worse in the CPF group than in the MPF group (Z = −2.357, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

As an improvement to the conventional titanium plate, the modified centerpiece titanium plate effectively provides an attachment point for the posterior muscle–ligament complex, reducing posterior cervical muscle atrophy and improving neck function, without inflicting additional surgical trauma.