bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neonaticides in the United States—2008-2017
Authors: F. Wilson Rebecca , Klevens Joanne , Fortson Beverly , Williams Dionne , Xu Likan , Yuan Keming
Published: February 2022

Objective:

This study examines factors associated with homicide in the first 24 hours of life (i.e., neonaticide) in the United States.

Methods:

National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) linked birth-infant death data, for 50 states and the District of Columbia, from 2008 through 2017, were used to examine characteristics associated with neonaticide. National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) data were used to examine circumstances of neonaticides that occurred in 14 states. Circumstances of neonaticides are described, and rates for maternal and infant characteristics are presented as rates per 100,000 person-years.

Results:

Among neonaticide victims in NVSS (N = 81), those of mothers who are young, unmarried, non-Hispanic, Black, and have lower education levels, are at an increased risk of neonaticide. Further, among mothers in NVDRS who committed neonaticide (N = 42), 66.7% were known to have given birth at a residence, without medical assistance. Approximately three-fourths (73.8%; n = 31) concealed their pregnancy, with 35.7% (n = 15) disposing of their infants in a trash receptacle after giving birth. Additionally, more than half of neonaticide victims were tested for alcohol, opioids, amphetamines, and cocaine, but a relatively small number tested positive for these substances.

Conclusions:

Results highlight the importance of identifying factors that elevate risk to neonates so these deaths can be prevented. As such, many mothers who commit neonaticide are young, unmarried, and conceal their pregnancy; thus, programs that prevent teen pregnancy, decrease shame and stigma associated with birth to young mothers, and provide support and resources to pregnant women, may help prevent neonaticide.
Linguistically Responsive Leaders: Working With Multilingual Students and Their Families
Authors: Phillips Aprille , Barnatt Joan , Viesca Kara
Published: February 2022

The demographic composition of the United States (US) has transformed since the early 1990s with immigrant arrivals from Mexico and Central America. Education leaders frequently exit preparation programs without content focused on opportunities around working successfully with multilingual students. This qualitative case study explores the implementation of online learning modules focused on engaging multilingual students and their families that were embedded into advanced leadership preparation coursework. Utilizing data (e.g., classwork, fieldnotes, semi-structured interviews) collected from 10 participants, findings include recommendations for stronger preparation on multilingual learners and flexible learning experiences that encourage the application of knowledge in professional practice.
Neurological manifestations of long-COVID syndrome: a narrative review
Authors: Stefanou Maria-Ioanna , Palaiodimou Lina , Bakola Eleni , Smyrnis Nikolaos , Papadopoulou Marianna , Paraskevas George P. , Rizos Emmanouil , Boutati Eleni , Grigoriadis Nikolaos , Krogias Christos , Giannopoulos Sotirios , Tsiodras Sotirios , Gaga Mina , Tsivgoulis Georgios
Published: February 2022

Accumulating evidence points toward a very high prevalence of prolonged neurological symptoms among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors. To date, there are no solidified criteria for ‘long-COVID’ diagnosis. Nevertheless, ‘long-COVID’ is conceptualized as a multi-organ disorder with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations that may be indicative of underlying pulmonary, cardiovascular, endocrine, hematologic, renal, gastrointestinal, dermatologic, immunological, psychiatric, or neurological disease. Involvement of the central or peripheral nervous system is noted in more than one-third of patients with antecedent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, while an approximately threefold higher incidence of neurological symptoms is recorded in observational studies including patient-reported data. The most frequent neurological manifestations of ‘long-COVID’ encompass fatigue; ‘brain fog’; headache; cognitive impairment; sleep, mood, smell, or taste disorders; myalgias; sensorimotor deficits; and dysautonomia. Although very limited evidence exists to date on the pathophysiological mechanisms implicated in the manifestation of ‘long-COVID’, neuroinflammatory and oxidative stress processes are thought to prevail in propagating neurological ‘long-COVID’ sequelae. In this narrative review, we sought to present a comprehensive overview of our current understanding of clinical features, risk factors, and pathophysiological processes of neurological ‘long-COVID’ sequelae. Moreover, we propose diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms that may aid in the prompt recognition and management of underlying causes of neurological symptoms that persist beyond the resolution of acute COVID-19. Furthermore, as causal treatments for ‘long-COVID’ are currently unavailable, we propose therapeutic approaches for symptom-oriented management of neurological ‘long-COVID’ symptoms. In addition, we emphasize that collaborative research initiatives are urgently needed to expedite the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies for neurological ‘long-COVID’ sequelae.
Treatment outcome and associated factors among patients admitted with acute poisoning in a tertiary hospital in Eastern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nigussie Shambel , Demeke Fekade , Getachew Melaku , Amare Firehiwot
Published: February 2022

Introduction:

Acute poisoning causes morbidity and mortality worldwide. There is scarce of information on acute poisoning in the study area.

Objective:

To assess treatment outcome and the associated factors among patients admitted with acute poisoning at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted. All acutely poisoned patients who had been admitted at the emergency department of Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2020 who fulfilled the inclusion criteria of the study were included. Data were collected by review of medical records. Poor treatment outcome of acute poisoning was defined as the acutely poisoned patient was died, or survived with disability. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with the outcome of acute poisoning.

Result:

A total of 175 patient’s medical records were reviewed. Of these, 150 patient’s medical records had complete information and were included in the final analysis. The majority of participants 89 (59.3%) were in the age group of 19–37 years. More than half of the participants 86 (57.3%) were females. Organophosphate was the most poisoning agent encountered in 62 cases. Acetaminophen was the predominant drug poisoning agent encountered in 10 participants. Among 30 patients managed with antidote, 18 patients were treated with atropine for organophosphate poisoning. Of all the poisoning cases admitted during the study period, 16.7% died. Participants who were poisoned by themselves were 2.4 times more likely to have poor treatment outcomes than those who were poisoned accidentally: 2.44 (95% confidence interval: 1.10–5.42). The odd of having poor treatment outcome in participants who were poisoned by drugs was 2.13 more likely: 2.13 (95% confidence interval: 1.21–3.32).

Conclusion:

Organophosphate was the predominant cause of acute poisoning encountered in 62 cases. The modes of poisoning and drug poisoning were significant risk factors associated with poor treatment outcomes of acute poisoning.
Environmental Effects of China’s Overseas Direct Investment in South Asia
Authors: Sattar Abdul , Tolassa Temesgen Hordofa , Hussain Muhammad Noshab , Ilyas Muhammad
Published: February 2022

This paper attempts to analyze the effects of China’s outward direct investment on environmental pollution in selected South Asian countries from 2004 to 2019 under framework of environmental Kuznet curve hypothesis. This empirical work is accomplished through fully modified ordinary least square. The findings of the full panel of fully modified ordinary least square indicates that China’s outward direct investment significantly spurs carbon emissions by (9.9%), which destroy the environment quality in the region. However, the estimated coefficients of the full panel of the fully modified ordinary least square indicates that (+) and (−) values of GDP and GDP square validate the environmental Kuznet curve hypothesis existence in the South Asia economies. Furthermore, when taking the individual countries, the environment consequences, individual characteristics of the countries and the GDP growth shows various temporal pattern of KEC hypothesis. Like in India there exist inverted U-shape curve, while Pakistan and Nepal manifest U-shape curve, whereas Bangladesh shows N-shape curve. Furthermore, this paper has identified bidirectional causality between economic growth, energy, financial development and carbon emissions. The empirical evidence implies that when governments consider foreign direct investment, they should priorities environmental protection mechanisms.
Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: Development and Natural History [AO Spine RECODE-DCM Research Priority Number 2]
Authors: Nouri Aria , Tessitore Enrico , Molliqaj Granit , Meling Torstein , Schaller Karl , Nakashima Hiroaki , Yukawa Yasutsugu , Bednarik Josef , Martin Allan R. , Vajkoczy Peter , Cheng Joseph S. , Kwon Brian K. , Kurpad Shekar N. , Fehlings Michael G. , Harrop James S. , Aarabi Bizhan , Rahimi-Movaghar Vafa , Guest James D. , Davies Benjamin M. , Kotter Mark R. N. , Wilson Jefferson R.
Published: February 2022

Study Design:

Narrative review.

Objectives:

To discuss the current understanding of the natural history of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM).

Methods:

Literature review summarizing current evidence pertaining to the natural history and risk factors of DCM.

Results:

DCM is a common condition in which progressive arthritic disease of the cervical spine leads to spinal cord compression resulting in a constellation of neurological symptoms, in particular upper extremity dysfunction and gait impairment. Anatomical factors including cord-canal mismatch, congenitally fused vertebrae and genetic factors may increase individuals’ risk for DCM development. Non-myelopathic spinal cord compression (NMSCC) is a common phenomenon with a prevalence of 24.2% in the healthy population, and 35.3% among individuals >60 years of age. Clinical radiculopathy and/or electrophysiological signs of cervical cord dysfunction appear to be risk factors for myelopathy development. Radiological progression of incidental Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament (OPLL) is estimated at 18.3% over 81-months and development of myelopathy ranges between 0-61.5% (follow-up ranging from 40 to 124 months between studies) among studies. In patients with symptomatic DCM undergoing non-operative treatment, 20-62% will experience neurological deterioration within 3-6 years.

Conclusion:

Current estimates surrounding the natural history of DCM, particularly those individuals with mild or minimal impairment, lack precision. Clear predictors of clinical deterioration for those treated with non-operative care are yet to be identified. Future studies are needed on this topic to help improve treatment counseling and clinical prognostication.
A New Framework for Investigating the Biological Basis of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy [AO Spine RECODE-DCM Research Priority Number 5]: Mechanical Stress, Vulnerability and Time
Authors: Davies Benjamin M. , Mowforth Oliver , Gharooni Aref-Ali , Tetreault Lindsay , Nouri Aria , Dhillon Rana S. , Bednarik Josef , Martin Allan R. , Young Adam , Takahashi Hitoshi , Boerger Timothy F. , Newcombe Virginia FJ , Zipser Carl Moritz , Freund Patrick , Koljonen Paul Aarne , Rodrigues-Pinto Ricardo , Rahimi-Movaghar Vafa , Wilson Jefferson R. , Kurpad Shekar N , Fehlings Michael G. , Kwon Brian K. , Harrop James S. , Guest James D. , Curt Armin , Kotter Mark R. N.
Published: February 2022

Study Design

Literature Review (Narrative)

Objective

To propose a new framework, to support the investigation and understanding of the pathobiology of DCM, AO Spine RECODE-DCM research priority number 5.

Methods

Degenerative cervical myelopathy is a common and disabling spinal cord disorder. In this perspective, we review key knowledge gaps between the clinical phenotype and our biological models. We then propose a reappraisal of the key driving forces behind DCM and an individual’s susceptibility, including the proposal of a new framework.

Results

Present pathobiological and mechanistic knowledge does not adequately explain the disease phenotype; why only a subset of patients with visualized cord compression show clinical myelopathy, and the amount of cord compression only weakly correlates with disability. We propose that DCM is better represented as a function of several interacting mechanical forces, such as shear, tension and compression, alongside an individual’s vulnerability to spinal cord injury, influenced by factors such as age, genetics, their cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and nervous system status, and time.

Conclusion

Understanding the disease pathobiology is a fundamental research priority. We believe a framework of mechanical stress, vulnerability, and time may better represent the disease as a whole. Whilst this remains theoretical, we hope that at the very least it will inspire new avenues of research that better encapsulate the full spectrum of disease.
Optimizing the Application of Surgery for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy [AO Spine RECODE-DCM Research Priority Number 10]
Authors: Rodrigues-Pinto Ricardo , Montenegro Thiago S. , Davies Benjamin M. , Kato So , Kawaguchi Yoshiharu , Ito Manabu , Zileli Mehmet , Kwon Brian K. , Fehlings Michael G. , Koljonen Paul A. , Kurpad Shekar N. , Guest James D. , Aarabi Bizhan , Rahimi-Movaghar Vafa , Wilson Jefferson R. , Kotter Mark R. N. , Harrop James S.
Published: February 2022

Study Design

Literature Review (Narrative).

Objective

To introduce the number 10 research priority for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: Individualizing Surgery.

Methods

This article summarizes the current recommendations and indications for surgery, including how known prognostic factors such as injury time, age, disease severity, and associated comorbidities impact surgical outcome. It also considers key areas of uncertainty that should be the focus of future research.

Results

While a small proportion of conservatively managed patients may remain stable, the majority will deteriorate over time. To date, surgical decompression is the mainstay of treatment, able to halt disease progression and improve neurologic function and quality of life for most patients. Whilst this recognition has led to recommendations on when to offer surgery, there remain many uncertainties including the type of surgery, or timing in milder and/or asymptomatic cases. Their clarification has the potential to transform outcomes, by ensuring surgery offers each individual its maximum benefit.

Conclusion

Developing the evidence to better guide surgical decision-making at the individual patient level is a research priority for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy.
Enjoy Your Favourite Book as a Movie: Using an Experiential Learning Exercise to Improve Student Understanding of Brand Extensions and Marketing Plan Preparation
Authors: Reghunathan Aravind , Sridhar G
Published: February 2022

Marketers frequently use brand extensions to introduce new products and services. However, educators have limited resources to simulate the challenges of this strategy in classrooms. Using the scenario of a book being turned into a movie, we describe an experiential learning activity that guides students through the many stages of developing a brand extension. In this project, they also have the opportunity to put themselves in the shoes of a marketing manager in the preparation of a thorough plan for expanding an established brand to a new target market. The outcomes of its implementation in a marketing course, as well as the implications for marketing educators, are reviewed.
Female Entrepreneurship and Marriage: Does Individualism Matter?
Authors: Dutta Nabamita
Published: February 2022

The findings with regard to the impact of marital status on female entrepreneurs are ambiguous. Using an extensive individual-level data across countries over six time waves from 1981 to 2014, the article explores the role of a cultural trait—individualism—in affecting the relationship between married females and their self-employment rates. Our results show that for less individualistic societies, married females are 4.3% less likely to be self-employed. For highly individualistic societies, married females are 3.9% less likely to be self-employed. So individualism helps by lessening the magnitude by which the probability for a married female to be self-employed goes down. Identification is established via mitigating omitted variable bias, presenting inverse probability weight estimates and, finally, considering instrumental variable estimates.

JEL Classification: L26, O11, Z10
Examining the Utility of the HIV Disability Questionnaire (HDQ) in Clinical Practice: Perspectives of People Living with HIV and Healthcare Providers
Authors: Vader Kyle , Chan Carusone Soo , Aubry Rachel , Ahluwalia Puja , Murray Carolann , Baxter Larry , Robinson Gregory , Ibáñez-Carrasco Francisco , Stewart Ann , Solomon Patricia , O’Brien Kelly K.
Published: February 2022

Our aim was to examine the utility of the HIV Disability Questionnaire (HDQ), a patient-reported outcome measure for use in clinical practice from the perspectives of people living with HIV (PLWH) and healthcare providers. We conducted a qualitative descriptive study. Fifteen PLWH and five healthcare providers participated in an interview, of which ten PLWH participated in a follow-up focus group discussion. The HDQ has value in clinical practice, including its role in assessing disability, facilitating communication, tailoring treatments, and guiding referrals. Strengths of the HDQ included its comprehensiveness, relevance of domains, and importance of specific items. Concerns related to length of the HDQ, the potential for some items to trigger emotional response, and negative connotations with the term ‘disability.’ Recommendations for HDQ implementation included the importance of score interpretability, shortening the questionnaire, and tailoring administration to the individual. Results suggest the HDQ possesses clinical utility with PLWH and healthcare providers.
Impact of radiative and dissipative heat on the Williamson nanofluid flow within a parallel channel due to thermal buoyancy
Authors: Pattanaik P Chandini , Mishra SR , Jena S , Pattnaik PK
Published: February 2022

The present investigation reveals the non-Newtonian flow characteristics for the Williamson nanofluid through a parallel channel due to the conjunction of thermal buoyancy. As a good conductor of heat, the metal like Copper is treated as the nanoparticles submerged into the base fluids water and kerosene to perform the flow phenomena within the channel embedding with the porous medium. For the involvement of the applied magnetic field and permeability it is not wise to neglect the impact of dissipative heat energy. Therefore, both the Joule and the Darcy dissipations are also considered those are affecting the thermal properties. The model is developed considering the Mintsa model thermophysical properties of conductivity and the Gharesim model viscosity for the enhancement of heat transport properties. In various industrial as well as engineering applications nanofluids are used as a best coolant. The use of suitable similarity variables and stream function helps to transform the governing nonlinear differential equations into nonlinear ordinary. Further, an approximate analytical approach such as Adomian Decomposition Method is used to handle those transformed equations. The current outcomes obtained from the behavior of various flow characteristics are presented via graphs and table to validate the results. The observation shows that with an augmentation in the particle concentration, fluid velocity retards however the retardation in case of water-based nanofluid overrides the case of kerosene-based nanofluid. Further, particle concentration enriches the nanofluid temperature greatly in comparison to pure fluid.
Sanitation Workers: A Neglected Community of Indian Civilized Society
Authors: Raghavendra R. H. , Kumar R. Anil
Published: February 2022

Sanitation workers are those who work in any part of the sanitation chain. They perform one of the most important jobs in the society, and still, they remain unseen and unappreciated. The stigmatized caste system in India remains to be the key determinant of the fate of these workers. These workers often come into direct contact with human waste, working with no equipment or protection, which exposes them to a wide variety of health hazards and diseases that can cause unconsciousness or death. There is an urgent need to look into their problems, and this cannot be addressed without having a detailed understanding of the depth and width of their problems. Hence, the present study covers a number of areas such as the vast prevalence of sanitation workers in India, their pathetic conditions, their social and economic status, deaths due to sanitation related works and an alternative livelihood to sanitation work. Finally, this article suggests what the government needs to do for improving the lives of sanitation workers.
Socio-economic Impact on Displaced Women in Jammu Region: A Sociological View
Authors: Kumar Sudesh
Published: February 2022

The present article is based on empirical work carried out in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, where the women were displaced by the dam projects. The main objective of the study is to examine the socio-economic conditions of displaced women after being forcibly displaced from their ancestral home land. Dam projects are the symbol of the economic growth of a nation, but unfortunately, millions of people are being displaced by dam projects in India. What happened to their socio-economic condition? Are they properly resettled? Such questions are always unanswered. The respective government gives only monetary compensation to the whole family. It has been observed that after being forcibly displaced, the displaced women face a lot of socio-economic problems such as poverty, unemployment, being homeless, jobless, dowry issues, domestic violence and health issues.
Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Large-Bowel Obstruction With Fecal Impaction: A Case Report
Authors: Yabunaka Koichi , Yamamoto Tatsuo , Nakahira Hiroko , Hayashi Noriyuki , Ohno Yoshiteru , Matsuzaki Masayo , Katsuda Toshizo
Published: February 2022

Traditionally, large bowel obstruction (LBO) can be due to a neoplasm, most often colorectal cancer. Also, fecal impaction (FI) is a common disease, which occurs in a variety of ages and is significantly increased in the elderly. This case report is of LBO caused by FI, in which ultrasonography (US) proved to be useful for diagnosis and follow-up. A 60-year-old female had abdominal pain after taking a laxative as part of bowel preparation for colonoscopy. The US diagnostic findings were a marked dilation of the bowel, due to watery stool, in the ascending colon, and a clear FI, in the descending colon. Computed tomography showed similar findings to the US. There was a large amount of defecation after treatment and US demonstrated an improvement in the ileus. Ten days after admission, a colonoscopy revealed no stenosis or tumor, as a cause for the ileus.
Safety profile of bivalirudin in Chinese female patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: a multi-center study
Authors: Wu Fan , Liu Xueying , Ran Huazhong , Tang Qiwei , Zhong Cheng , Wu Yanqing , Xiao Jun
Published: February 2022

Background

The present study aimed to comprehensively investigate the occurrence and risk factors of adverse events (AEs) or adverse drug reactions (ADRs) (especially for thrombocytopenia and bleeding) in Chinese female patients receiving bivalirudin during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

A total of 918 female patients from 27 Chinese medical centers took bivalirudin as anticoagulant for PCI were enrolled in this prospective, multi-center, intensive monitoring study. Safety data (AEs, ADRs, thrombocytopenia and bleeding) were collected from admission to 72 h post bivalirudin administration; then, patients were followed up at the 30th day with the safety data collected as well.

Results

One hundred and twenty (13.1%) patients occurred AEs, among which 7 (0.8%) cases experienced severe AEs, and 2 (0.2%) cases died. Besides, 40 (4.4%) patients occurred bivalirudin-related ADRs, in which 3 (0.3%) cases experienced severe ADRs, but 0 (0.0%) cases died. It was of note that 27 (2.9%) and 13 (1.4%) patients experienced thrombocytopenia and bleeding, respectively. Subsequent multivariate analyses observed that: clinical presentation of spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) (odds ratio (OR) = 3.191, P = 0.004), CRUSADE high risk (OR = 2.075, P = 0.031), multiple culprit vessel (OR = 2.328, P = 0.019) independently correlated with higher risk of bivalirudin-related ADRs; clinical presentation of SCAD (OR = 4.388, P = 0.002) and multiple culprit vessel (OR = 2.974, P = 0.010) independently linked with raised thrombocytopenia risk; history of diabetes mellitus (OR = 5.227, P = 0.007) and CRUSADE high risk (OR = 4.475, P = 0.016) were independent factor related to elevated bleeding risk.

Conclusion

Bivalirudin is well tolerated with low ADRs, thrombocytopenia and bleeding incidences in Chinese female patients undergoing PCI.
Visual risk factors for falls in older adults: a case-control study
Authors: Mehta Jignasa , Czanner Gabriela , Harding Simon , Newsham David , Robinson Jude
Published: February 2022

Background

Falls are the second leading  cause of accidental deaths worldwide mainly in older people. Older people have poor vision and published evidence suggests that it is a risk factor for falls. Less than half of falls clinics assess vision as part of the multi-factorial assessment of older adults at risk of falls despite vision being an essential input for postural stability. The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between all clinically assessed visual functions and falls amongst older adults in a prospective observational individually age-matched case control study.

Methods

Visual acuity (VA), contrast sensitivity (CS), depth perception, binocular vision and binocular visual field were measured using routinely used clinical methods in falls participants (N = 83) and non-falls participants (N = 83). Data were also collected on socio-demographic factors, general health, number of medications, health quality, fear of falling and physical activity. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine key visual and non-visual risk factors for falls whilst adjusting for confounding covariates.

Results

Older adults have an increased risk of experiencing a fall if they have reduced visual function (odds ratio (OR): 3.49, 1.64-7.45, p = 0.001), specifically impaired stereoacuity worse than 85” of arc (OR: 3.4, 1.20-9.69, p = 0.02) and reduced (by 0.15 log unit) high spatial frequency CS (18 cpd) (OR:1.40, 1.12-1.80, p = 0.003). Older adults with a hearing impairment are also at higher risk of falls (OR: 3.18, 95% CI: 1.36-7.40, p = 0.007). The risk decreases with living in a less deprived area (OR: 0.74, 0.64-0.86, <0.001), or socialising more out of the home (OR: 0.75, 0.60-0.93, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

The combination of social, behavioural and biological determinants are significant predictors of a fall. The non-visual risk factors include older adults, living in deprived neighbourhoods, socialising less outside of the home and those who have a hearing impairment. Impaired functional visual measures; depth perception and contrast are significant visual risk factors for falls above visual acuity.
Coexistence of diabetes mellitus and pre-existing cardiovascular disease and mortality in Chinese patients on peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Lei Guangtao , Feng Xiaoran , Wang Xiaoyang , Wen Yueqiang , Peng FenFen , Wang Niansong , Zhan Xiaojiang , Wu Qinghua , Wu Xianfeng
Published: February 2022

Background

Little is known about the association between the coexistence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and pre-existing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 2939 Chinese incident CAPD patients was conducted between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2018. The primary and secondary outcomes were all-cause and CVD mortality. The association between the coexistence of DM and pre-existing CVD and mortality was evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

Over a median of 35.1 months of follow-up, 519 patients (17.7%) died, with 258 (8.8%) being CVD-related deaths. DM plus pre-existing CVD, DM, and pre-existing CVD were associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 2.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.18 to 3.72; adjusted HR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.50 to 2.38; and HR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.07 to 1.92; P for tend < 0.001) and CVD mortality (adjusted HR, 2.79; 95% CI, 1.91 to 4.08; HR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.35 to 2.61; and HR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.23 to 2.68; P for trend < 0.001) than no DM or pre-existing CVD. Subgroup analyses stratified by sex, hypertension status, and hyperlipidemia status showed a similar pattern.

Conclusions

The coexistence of DM and pre-existing CVD at the start of CAPD was more strongly associated with a higher risk of all-cause and CVD mortality than DM or pre-existing CVD alone.
Prognostic significance of KLF4 in solid tumours: an updated meta-analysis
Authors: Luo Xiaoya , Zhang Yue , Meng Ying , Ji Ming , Wang Yongjun
Published: February 2022

Background

Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) is a zinc finger-containing transcription factor predominantly expressed in terminally differentiated epithelial tissues. Many studies have shown that KLF4 has various mechanisms in different tumours; however, the prognostic role of KLF4 remains unclear.

Methods and results

We searched the relevant literature that evaluated the prognostic value of KLF4 in different cancers, and the original survival data were obtained from the text, tables or Kaplan–Meier curves for both comparative groups. Thirty studies were included in this meta-analysis, and a total of 10 malignant tumours were involved. The expression of KLF4 was not associated with the prognosis for overall survival (hazard ratio(HR)0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.65–1.13, P = 0.28), disease-free survival/recurrence-free survival/metastasis-free survival (HR 0.87, 95% CI: 0.52–1.44, P = 0.58) or disease-specific survival (HR 1.13, 95% CI: 0.44–2.87, P = 0.8).

Conclusion

This study showed that the expression of KLF4 was not related to the prognosis of the tumours that were included in the study.
The feasibility of using life skills training in primary schools to improve mental health and academic performance: a pilot study in Kenya
Authors: Ndetei David M. , Mutiso Victoria N. , Musyimi Christine W. , Alietsi Rita K. , Shanley Jenelle R. , Bhui Kamaldeep S.
Published: February 2022

Background

There is no Kenyan evidence on the relationship between mental illness and academic performance. We aimed to determine the effect of life skills training on mental health and academic performance.

Methods

We administered to 1848 primary school children a researcher designed socio-demographic questionnaire, and the Youth Self Report (YSR) and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) to their parents, followed by eight sessions of life skills training. We extracted data from the individual records of each child on overall performance pre and post training separated by one year. We conducted descriptive statistics, paired sample t-tests, multivariate linear regression analysis and linear mixed model analysis to assess changing patterns of academic performance and any predictive characteristics.

Results

There was significant (p < 0.05) improvement in overall academic performance (aggregate marks and all individual subjects) for both lower primary and upper primary classes after the life-skills training intervention. For lower classes (2-4 grades) increase in academic performance was significantly associated with fathers and mothers education levels, region and class. For upper classes, (5-7 grades) increase in academic performance was associated with region, class and age.

Conclusions

Life skills training is recommended as it could improve academic performance, but predicted by socio-demographic factors.
Gender differences in the relationships between housework and metabolic markers: a longitudinal cohort study in China
Authors: Wang Xiao-qin , Ren Xiao-han , Kou Wen-jing , Li Yang , Hui Zhao-zhao , Sun Jia-ru , Wang Ming-xu
Published: February 2022

Background

Metabolic syndrome has become a major health threat throughout the world, but there are few studies that focus on the effects of housework on human metabolism. This study explores the association between housework and metabolic markers and examines whether there are gender differences in the relationship of housework intensity on these markers.

Methods

We obtained data for 2,624 participants from the China Health and Nutrition Survey and used binary logistic regression to analyze the association between housework and metabolic markers (triglycerides, high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, hemoglobin, blood glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure).

Results

We observed no association between housework and metabolic markers for men. However, we find that women who engaged in housework had a higher risk of triglycerides than those who did not (OR=1.16, 95% CI: 1.16, 4.25). Compared with low-intensity, we also find that women who performed moderate- and high-housework intensity had a higher risk of triglycerides (moderate-intensity: OR=1.78, 95% CI: 1.14, 2.78; high-intensity: OR=1.91, 95% CI: 1.22, 2.98), MetS (OR=1.54, 95% CI: 0.98, 2.43; OR=1.68, 95% CI: 1.07, 2.66), pre-hypertension (OR=1.68, 95% CI: 1.08, 2.62; OR=1.63, 95% CI: 1.04, 2.55), and obesity (OR=1.65, 95% CI: 1.01, 2.70; OR=1.66, 95% CI: 1.01, 2.72).

Conclusion

In women, we find that housework is positively associated with the metabolic markers, triglycerides, MetS, and pre-hypertension. However, we did not find evidence that this relationship exists in men, f or any biomarkers we considered. One possible explanation is that people who engage in high-intensity housework are more stressed and sleep less, which could be a mechanism by which housework becomes associated with metabolic disease.
Effect of doxofylline on pulmonary inflammatory response and oxidative stress during mechanical ventilation in rats with COPD
Authors: Chen Zhi-yuan , Lin Yu-mei , Wu Jian-hua , Zhang Xiao-qi , Zhang Yi , Xie Wen-xi , Chu Shu-qiang , Li Yan
Published: February 2022

Objective

To evaluate the effects of doxofylline on inflammatory responses and oxidative stress during mechanical ventilation in rats with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

Eight-week-old male Sprague Dawley rats were selected, and the COPD rat model was constructed. The rats were randomly divided into a model group (group M), a model + normal saline group (group N), a doxofylline group (group D), and a control group fed with conventional chow and given normal oxygen supply (group C) (n = 12 in each group). Tracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation were conducted in the rats in each group after anesthesia. A real-time intravenous infusion with 50 mg/kg of doxofylline was conducted in group D, and there was no drug intervention in groups C, N and M. Pathological manifestations of the pulmonary tissues were observed and compared among the groups. And some indicators were evaluated.

Results

(1) The pulmonary tissues of the rats in groups M, N, and D exhibited typical pathological histological changes of COPD. (2) Groups M, N, and D showed increased Ppeak, PaCO2, total white blood cell count in BALF, and IL-8, TNF-α, and MDA levels in the pulmonary tissue and BALF, and decreased PaO2 and IL-10 and SOD levels, compared with group C. (3). Group D showed decreased Ppeak, PaCO2, total white blood cell count in BALF, and IL-8, TNF-α, and MDA levels in the pulmonary tissue, and increased PaO2 and IL-10 and SOD levels, compared with group N or M.

Conclusion

Doxofylline was shown to improve ventilation and air exchange during mechanical ventilation in rats with COPD, reduce the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, and mitigate the degree of pulmonary tissue injury.
Construct validity and reliability of the 2-minute step test in patients with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: de Morais Almeida Thiago Felipe , Dibai-Filho Almir Vieira , de Freitas Thomaz Fernanda , Lima Eloiza Adelaide Amaral , Cabido Christian Emmanuel Torres
Published: February 2022

Objective

To validate and evaluate the intra- and inter-rater reliability of the 2-min step test (2MST) in measuring the functional performance of patients with knee pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Forty-one patients with knee OA was included. Two examiners assessed the patients at two times with interval between the test and retest from 7 to 14 days. All executions of 2MST were recorded in real time by the examiners and were also recorded by video. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and 95% confidence interval (CI), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimum detectable difference (MDD) were used to determine reliability. In the construct validity, we correlate the score of the 2MST with the other instruments used in the study: The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Numerical Pain Scale (NPS), Pain-Related Catastrophizing Thoughts Scale (PCTS) and Chronic Pain Self-Efficacy Scale (PSEQ). The agreement between the face-to-face assessment and the evaluation based on the video record was assessed using the Bland-Altman methodology in the 4 moments of the 2MST.

Results

2MST presented excellent intra- (ICC = 0.94, SEM = 4.47, MDD = 12.40) and inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.97, SEM = 3.07, MDD = 8.52). The agreement was acceptable between face-to-face assessments and the analyzes performed on video. All instruments showed a statistically significant correlation with 2MST, except the PCTS. A correlation magnitude above 0.50 was found between the 2MST and pain and function domains of the WOMAC, and a correlation magnitude between 0.30 and 0.50 with the joint stiffness domain of the WOMAC, NRPS and PSEQ.

Conclusion

2MST proved to be valid for assessing functional capacity in patients with knee OA, with excellent reliability.
Delayed radial head dislocation after radial shaft fracture fixation: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Yang Jiyong , Zhang Jie , Yang Zhengzhong
Published: February 2022

Background

Ipsilateral fracture of the radial shaft with dislocation of the radial head was a rare injury, but a delayed radial head dislocation after radial shaft fracture fixation was more extremely rare.

Case presentation

A 39-year-old man fell from the height on his outstretched hand and injured his left, non-dominant forearm. Preoperative radiographs demonstrated a comminuted fracture of the proximal third of the radius but with no apparent dislocation of the distal or proximal radioulnar joints or the elbow. Seven days after the injury, the radius was fixed with a reconstruction locking plate, and the immediate postoperative radiograph revealed a satisfactory reduction. However, a radiograph done at the 4th week postoperatively showed that the radial head dislocated. Manual reduction under anesthesia was tried but failed and the patient refused to take another open surgery. The patient had an acceptable range of motion 12 months after the surgery: elbow flexion 120°, full elbow extension, forearm pronation 80°, forearm supination 80°, but he complained the pain around the elbow.

Conclusion

In the case of radial shaft fracture especially the when occurs at the proximal third of the radial shaft, even if the radiograph does not show the injury of the proximal radioulnar joint, we should also make a thorough examination of the proximal radioulnar joint. If the radial head dislocation is not initially diagnosed or treated late, a delayed dislocation would be very difficult to manage with a poor expected outcome.
A qualitative investigation of the supportive care experiences of people living with pancreatic and oesophagogastric cancer
Authors: Khan Nadia N. , Maharaj Ashika , Evans Sue , Pilgrim Charles , Zalcberg John , Brown Wendy , Cashin Paul , Croagh Daniel , Michael Natasha , Shapiro Jeremy , White Kate , Ioannou Liane
Published: February 2022

Background

Pancreatic and oesophagogastric (OG) cancers have a dismal prognosis and high symptom burden, with supportive care forming an integral component of the care provided to patients. This study aimed to explore the supportive care experiences of patients and caregivers living with pancreatic and OG cancers in order to identify perceived opportunities for improvement.

Methods

Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with people living with pancreatic and OG cancers, and their caregivers, across Victoria, Australia during 2020. Interviews were thematically analysed to identify common themes.

Results

Forty-one participants were interviewed, including 30 patients and 11 caregivers. Three overarching themes, each with multiple sub-themes, were identified: (i) inadequate support for symptoms and issues across the cancer journey (ii) caregiver’s desire for greater support, and (iii) a multidisciplinary care team is the hallmark of a positive supportive care experience. Generally, those who had access to a cancer care coordinator and/or a palliative care team recounted more positive supportive care experiences.

Conclusion

Unmet needs are prevalent across the pancreatic and OG cancer journey, with supportive care provided to varying levels of satisfaction. Greater awareness of and access to high-quality multidisciplinary support services is greatly desired by both patients with pancreatic and OG cancer and their caregivers.
Gene losses may contribute to subterranean adaptations in naked mole-rat and blind mole-rat
Authors: Zheng Zhizhong , Hua Rong , Xu Guoqiang , Yang Hui , Shi Peng
Published: February 2022

Background

Naked mole-rats (Heterocephalus glaber, NMRs) and blind mole-rats (Spalax galili, BMRs) are representative subterranean rodents that have evolved many extraordinary traits, including hypoxia tolerance, longevity, and cancer resistance. Although multiple candidate loci responsible for these traits have been uncovered by genomic studies, many of them are limited to functional changes to amino acid sequence and little is known about the contributions of other genetic events. To address this issue, we focused on gene losses (unitary pseudogenes) and systematically analyzed gene losses in NMRs and BMRs, aiming to elucidate the potential roles of pseudogenes in their adaptation to subterranean lifestyle.

Results

We obtained the pseudogene repertoires in NMRs and BMRs, as well as their respective aboveground relatives, guinea pigs and rats, on a genome-wide scale. As a result, 167, 139, 341, and 112 pseudogenes were identified in NMRs, BMRs, guinea pigs, and rats, respectively. Functional enrichment analysis identified 4 shared and 2 species-specific enriched functional groups (EFGs) in subterranean lineages. Notably, the pseudogenes in these EFGs might be associated with either regressive (e.g., visual system) or adaptive (e.g., altered DNA damage response) traits. In addition, several pseudogenes including TNNI3K and PDE5A might be associated with specific cardiac features observed in subterranean lineages. Interestingly, we observed 20 convergent gene losses in NMRs and BMRs. Given that the functional investigations of these genes are generally scarce, we provided functional evidence that independent loss of TRIM17 in NMRs and BMRs might be beneficial for neuronal survival under hypoxia, supporting the positive role of eliminating TRIM17 function in hypoxia adaptation. Our results also suggested that pseudogenes, together with positively selected genes, reinforced subterranean adaptations cooperatively.

Conclusions

Our study provides new insights into the molecular underpinnings of subterranean adaptations and highlights the importance of gene losses in mammalian evolution.
Global prevalence and burden of meal-related abdominal pain
Authors: Colomier Esther , Melchior Chloé , Algera Joost P. , Hreinsson Jóhann P. , Störsrud Stine , Törnblom Hans , Van Oudenhove Lukas , Palsson Olafur S. , Bangdiwala Shrikant I. , Sperber Ami D. , Tack Jan , Simrén Magnus
Published: February 2022

Background

Patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) report meal intake to be associated with symptoms. DGBI patients with meal-related symptoms may have more severe symptoms overall and worse health outcomes, but this subgroup has not been well characterized. We aimed to describe the global prevalence of meal-related abdominal pain and characterize this subgroup.

Methods

The data analyzed originated from the Internet survey component of the population-based Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study, completed in 26 countries (n= 54,127). Adult subjects were asked whether they had abdominal pain and how often this was meal-related. Respondents were categorized into “no,” “occasional,” and “frequent” meal-related abdominal pain groups based on 0%, 10–40%, and ≥50% of the pain episodes being meal-related, respectively. DGBI diagnoses, frequency of other GI symptoms, psychological distress, non-GI somatic symptoms, quality of life, and healthcare utilization were compared between groups. Mixed linear and ordinal regression was used to assess independent associations between psychological distress, non-GI somatic symptoms, quality of life, other GI symptoms, and meal-related abdominal pain.

Results

Overall, 51.9% of the respondents reported abdominal pain in the last 3 months, and 11.0% belonged to the group with frequent meal-related abdominal pain, which included more females and younger subjects. DGBI diagnoses were more common in subjects with frequent meal-related abdominal pain, and the frequency of several GI symptoms was associated with having more frequent meal-related abdominal pain. Having meal-related abdominal pain more frequently was also associated with more severe psychological distress, non-GI somatic symptoms, and a poorer quality of life. The group with frequent meal-related abdominal pain also more often consulted a doctor for bowel problems compared to the other groups of meal-related abdominal pain.

Conclusion

Reporting frequent meal-related abdominal pain is common across the globe and associated with other GI and non-GI somatic symptoms, psychological distress, healthcare utilization, and a poorer quality of life. Individuals who frequently experience meal-related abdominal pain also more frequently fulfill the diagnostic criteria for DGBI. Assessing meal-related symptoms in all DGBI patients could be of major importance to improve and individualize symptom management.