bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TFE3 Rearrangement and Expression in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kmeid Michel , Akgul Mahmut
Published: August 2022

TFE3 rearranged Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is not very common, and demonstrates unique heterogenous morphological features overlapping other recognized entities and distinct immunoprofile. It can be seen in any age group, therefore practicing pathologists should be aware of the distinctive clinical settings and histologic findings associated with these tumors and subsequently employ an adequate panel of ancillary studies in order to confirm the diagnosis. Recognizing these entities remains crucial for future clinical trials and development of novel therapies.
Energy distribution of bifurcated waveguide structure with planar and non-planar surfaces
Authors: Afsar Haleem , Akbar Yasir
Published: August 2022

The present communication addresses the reflection and transmission analysis of a two-dimensional waveguide structure with planar and non-planar surfaces. In the fields of physics, engineering and applied mathematics, research is being carried out to control or reduce unwanted and harmful noise to an acceptable level. Our aim is to solve the boundary value problem developed to simulate the transmission and reflection of a bifurcated waveguide structure in the channels or ducts that have abrupt changes in the height together with planar and non-planar surfaces. Furthermore, the eigenfunctions are linearly independent and non-orthogonal. To solve non-orthogonal eigenfunctions, a generalized orthogonality relation has been developed. Solution is obtained using mode matching technique (MMT) along with generalized orthogonal relations. In the last section, solution is viewed graphically in the inner and outer ducts or channels for different frequencies and height. The expressions for energy distribution in different duct regions are obtained and sketched subject to the various properties of the waveguide material. The results are well supported for a number of mathematical and physical reasons.
Discrete observability of the Bresse system
Authors: El Arwadi Toufic , Youssef Wael , Wehbe Ali
Published: August 2022

In this work, a recent type of observability inequality for the Bresse system in one-dimensional–bounded domain is investigated. First, a finite element implicit Euler scheme is studied. More precisely, a priori error estimate is established which leads to the convergence of the proposed scheme. Then, based on this error estimate, a discrete observability inequality is obtained.
Elementary Translanguaging Writing Pedagogy: A Literature Review
Authors: Salmerón Cori
Published: August 2022

While a wealth of research shows the social and academic benefits of bilingualism and multilingualism, the education of bi/multilingual learners often focuses on transitioning students to English. Based on this fact, the first aim of this article is to highlight translanguaging as a model that challenges monoglossic language ideologies. The second aim is to present a systematic review of peer-reviewed studies (2000–2020, 47 studies) that highlight translanguaging as a pedagogy for elementary bi/multilingual students’ writing development. Due to the historical scholarly focus on reading over writing, especially at the elementary level, this study focuses on translanguaging pedagogy in the context of elementary writing. Findings showed four themes: (a) audience awareness and authentic products, (b) collaborative learning and composition, (c) multimodal composition, and (d) simultaneous literacy instruction. I argue for further engagement with students’ families, communities, and identities in the writing process and an exploration of the transformative potential of translanguaging writing pedagogy.
Virtual Tourism Experiences and Mental Restoration
Authors: Walters Gabby , Gill Chelsea , Pham Le Diem Quynh , Filep Sebastian
Published: August 2022

Virtual reality is providing new opportunities for health and well-being, organizational learning, and tourism management. The study reported in this paper aims to examine whether engaging in a virtual reality tourism experience could function as a restorative intervention strategy to enhance mental well-being of employees in the workplace. The study employed a lab-based pre–post experimental design to test the effectiveness of a virtual reality tourism experience, involving a nature-based marine setting, to enhance mental restoration and reduce mental fatigue. The results show that 3 minutes of a virtual tourism experience can lead to enhanced concentration while boosting the mental well-being of employees, while, at the same time, providing destinations with an opportunity to promote “real” experiences.
Performance of rough surface hydrodynamic circular and multi-lobe journal bearings in turbulent regimes
Authors: Narwat Kuldeep , Kumar Vivek , Singh Simran Jeet , Kumar Abhishek , Sharma Satish C
Published: August 2022

This article deals with the steady and dynamic performance analysis of rough surface circular and multi-lobe journal bearings operating with non-Newtonian lubricant in turbulent regimes. The numerical solution of Reynold's equation was obtained using the finite element method. To account for surface roughness, the Patir and Cheng model was used, and fluid turbulent behavior was modeled using the turbulent theory as proposed by Ng and Pan. The non-Newtonian behavior of the lubricant is presented by the Rabinowitsch fluid model, and JFO boundary conditions are used to solve Reynold's equation, considering gaseous cavitation. The bearing with micro-roughness has been considered in numerical analysis and transverse roughness has been reported to improve bearing performance indices. Among the different bearing design configurations, the two-lobe bearing configuration provides significantly improves the minimum film thickness, hydrodynamic pressure, and dynamic parameters. The presence of turbulent flow and transverse surface roughness produces a synergistic effect that enhances the minimum film thickness, stiffness, and damping parameters of journal bearings. This study provides a detailed comparison between various bearing designs and recommends the use of two-lobe bearings for high-speed applications.
Stigma, shame and family secrets as consequences of mental illness in previous generations: A micro-history approach
Authors: Clark Eileen , Munday Jennifer , Watts Alison
Published: August 2022

In this article we evaluate micro-history as a method for investigating the meaning of stigma, shame and family secrets through generations. We present micro-histories of two Australian soldiers who developed mental illness years after serving in World War 1 and were committed to a psychiatric hospital where they died. Data were drawn from publicly available records and interviews with family members. The contrasting stories held by the families of each man illustrate the transmission of stigma and secrets through families. We explore possible reasons for the differences between the families related to the wider literature on stigma and mental health and show why the family stories people present should be considered social constructions rather than facts. We also address ethical issues that arose during the research, and which have relevance for researchers investigating sensitive or potentially stigmatising topics.
Maasai women hearing voices: Implications for global mental health
Authors: Myers Neely , Mollel Elizabeth Lesitei , Pauselli Luca , Chacon Marne , Compton Michael
Published: August 2022

There is a sparse literature on women who hear voices globally, even though there are documented gendered dimensions of distress in the context of globalization and climate change and research indicates that trauma and psychosocial stress may be related to an increased prevalence of voice-hearing or auditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs). There is also a gap in the cultural phenomenology of voice-hearing in general, as well as idioms of distress for non-western peoples. This article presents results of a mixed methods study that: 1) estimated community prevalence of voice-hearing among Maasai women in northern Tanzania; 2) examined any demographic correlates and two specific hypothesized correlates (i.e., psychological stress and potentially traumatic events); and 3) engaged women in semi-structured interviews about their everyday lives and the phenomenological experience of voice-hearing. The prevalence of voice-hearing (39.4%) in this nonclinical sample (n = 71) was quite high compared to other studies in sub-Saharan Africa. Most women also reported high psychosocial stress and traumatic life events. They also talked about gendered conditions of social adversity in a context of rapid social, economic, and climate change. Women who reported hearing voices had a statistically significantly higher level of psychological distress, met criteria for severe psychological distress, and reported more potentially traumatic life events. In a logistic regression model, psychosocial stress predicted voice-hearing. The presence of distressing voices may offer a straightforward way to quickly identify people in the community experiencing the most extreme levels of psychosocial stress and traumatic events—a potentially simple but effective screening tool for health workers on the ground.
Motivational patterns of emergent and fully bilingual children learning English and Japanese at an international school
Authors: Tanaka Yumi , Kutsuki Aya
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

Based on self-determination theory, this study compared the motivation of emergent bilinguals and full bilinguals in English and Japanese learning at an international elementary school in Japan.

Methodology:

This study employed a questionnaire on motivational orientations in English and Japanese learning.

Data and analysis:

Participants were 104 children who had either English or Japanese as their first language or had an English and Japanese bilingual background. A mixed-measures analysis of variance and correlation analysis were performed on the survey data.

Findings:

Although the degree of internalization of motivation differed depending on whether students were emergent or full bilinguals, the pattern of their motivational intensity in learning English and Japanese was similar among the three groups. Specifically, the full bilinguals internalized motivation in English and Japanese learning equally, while members of both the emergent bilingual groups internalized motivation only in learning the main language of instruction, English. Regarding the respective motivational intensity in the learning of the two languages, autonomous motivation (intrinsic motivation and identified regulation) was significantly stronger in English learning than Japanese learning among the groups, except identified regulation in the emergent bilinguals with English as their first language, while controlled motivation (introjected and external regulation) was significantly stronger in Japanese learning than English learning. Correlation analysis between English learning and Japanese learning additionally showed that for the full bilinguals, intrinsic motivation in English learning did not correlate to that in Japanese learning, whereas such motivation was positively correlated among emergent bilinguals.

Originality:

This is the first cross-lingual study using self-determination theory to compare motivation between emergent children reciprocally learning their first and second languages. It also compares the motivation of emergent children to that of fully bilingual children learning two first languages.

Implications:

Different patterns of motivation among emergent and full bilinguals necessitate corresponding classroom strategies.
New patterns in residential burglary: The method of deadbolt lock picking
Authors: Mercan Boran Ali
Published: August 2022

This article examines the adaptability of burglars and tactical displacement in Ankara, the capital of Turkey, as part of an ‘arms race’ escalating in response to the sophistication of offensive and preventive measures. It describes the current method of picking deadbolt locks on steel doors inside apartment buildings, a procedure requiring a more complicated and collaborative effort. Following a Bourdieusian criminological reading determining the script and resources of a group of active offenders that function as criminal capital, this article reveals that recently, residential burglary has been displaced from the ‘outside’ to the ‘inside’ of multi-storey apartment buildings due to the proliferation of CCTV, alarm systems and spotlights. Ethnographic findings suggest that a decade ago burgling a residence was far easier for most offenders than it would be today, with numerous similarities in the script of offenders in the non-Western and Western contexts.
An “Alternative to the Pen”? Perspectives for the Design of Historiographical Videogames
Authors: Bazile Julien A.
Published: August 2022

This article presents how the tools of videogame design can be used to convey historical arguments, and to what extent historians could benefit from creating such videogames. We begin by positioning our argument within the literature on the writing of history, linking it to formal and writing issues, which leads us to delve into various definitions of what “videogames for history” could be, and what operational frameworks could be derived from those definitions. We then confront some key principles of design to a selection of actual videogame projects to discuss the possibility of “historiographical game design” to be considered as “an alternative to the pen” (Chapman, 2013, p. 329) for historians. Our goal is to identify general principles in the design of historiographical videogames, to provide an improved and refined definition of these games from a design perspective and to formulate general guidelines to inform further explorations through research-creation projects.
Endovascular thrombectomy in young patients with stroke
Authors: Weller Johannes M , Dorn Franziska , Meissner Julius N , Stösser Sebastian , Beckonert Niklas M , Nordsiek Julia , Kindler Christine , Deb-Chatterji Milani , Petzold Gabor C , Bode Felix J , Reich A. , Nikoubashman O. , Röther J. , Eckert B. , Braun M. , Hamann G.F. , Siebert E. , Nolte C.H. , Bohner G. , Eckert R.M. , Borggrefe J. , Schellinger P. , Berrouschot J. , Bormann A. , Kraemer C. , Leischner H. , Petersen M. , Stögbauer F. , Boeck-Behrens T. , Wunderlich S. , Ludolph A. , Henn K.H. , Gerloff C. , Fiehler J. , Thomalla G. , Alegiani A. , Schäfer J.H. , Keil F. , Tiedt S. , Kellert L. , Trumm C. , Ernemann U. , Poli S. , Liman J. , Ernst M. , Gröschel K. , Uphaus T.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Endovascular treatment (ET) is standard of care in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion, but data on ET in young patients remain limited.

Aim:

We aim to compare outcomes for young stroke patients undergoing ET in a matched cohort.

Methods:

We analyzed patients from an observational multicenter cohort with acute ischemic stroke and ET, the German Stroke Registry—Endovascular Treatment trial. Baseline characteristics, procedural parameters, and functional outcome at 90 days were compared between young (<50 years) and older (⩾50 years) patients with and without nearest-neighbor 1:1 propensity score matching.

Results:

Out of 6628 acute ischemic stroke patients treated with ET, 363 (5.5%) were young. Young patients differed with regard to prognostic outcome characteristics. Specifically, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) at admission was lower (median 13, interquartile range (IQR) 8–17 vs. 15, IQR 9–19, p < 0.001), and prestroke dependence was less frequent (2.9% vs. 12.2%, p < 0.001) than in older patients. Compared to a matched cohort of older patients, ET was faster (time from groin puncture to flow restoration, 35 vs. 45 min, p < 0.001) and intracranial hemorrhage was less frequent in young patients (10.0% vs. 25.9%, p < 0.001). Good functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0–2) at 3 months was achieved more frequently in young patients (71.6% vs. 44.1%, p < 0.001), and overall mortality was lower (6.7% vs. 25.4%, p < 0.001). Among previously employed young patients (n = 177), 37.9% returned to work at 3-month follow-up, while 74.1% of the remaining patients were still undergoing rehabilitation.

Conclusion:

Young stroke patients undergoing ET have better outcomes compared to older patients, even when matched for prestroke condition, comorbidities, and stroke severity. Hence, more liberal guidelines to perform ET for younger patients may have to be established by future studies.
Dialita: Collective memories of former women political prisoners during the New Order era in Java, 2000–2011
Authors: Lestariningsih Amurwani Dwi , Sunarti Linda
Published: August 2022

This article studies how the experiences of former women political prisoners in the New Order era of Indonesia have been recollected to reproduce identity. In 1979, these women were returned to their community after a rehabilitation period of nearly 10 years. The public, which could not accept their past, attached a lingering stigma to them and continually rejected them. This article attempts to uncover the process of memory articulation and the context in which these women sought to reproduce their identity through Dialita (Di Atas Lima Puluh Tahun, Above 50 Years Old), a choir group consisting of former women political prisoners and their relatives. Dialita positioned itself as a medium for cultural reconciliation that aimed to alter public perception of the women’s identity and reposition them in the country’s collective memory. This is how the politics of memory work in Indonesian society, where the government has the power to decide which memories should be remembered and which should be forgotten. Dialita brought almost forgotten songs back to life because its members were not allowed to write songs while being imprisoned at correctional facilities in Bukit Duri, Plantungan, Salemba and Ambarawa. Interviews and textual interpretation have allowed us to delve deeper into the lives of these former women political prisoners, who were positioned as the main actors of a past historical event and encouraged to articulate their memories by reproducing songs as a part of their identity reproduction. The articulation process and the re-interpretation of the past helped the women shape their sense of self and, more importantly, to alter the way the public remembers the events of 1965.
Sialolithiasis
Authors: Harrison Patrick , Richards Claire , Niziol Rafal , Fry Alistair
Published: August 2022

Sialolithiasis is one of the most common salivary gland diseases. It is characterised by salivary gland stones, also known as sioliths, which can block outflow of saliva from the salivary ducts. These stones are associated with pain and swelling as pressure in the ducts increases before, during and after eating foods, in what is known as ‘mealtime syndrome’. Patients often present to primary care services. Symptoms overlap with symptoms of dental origin, hence, a discerning knowledge of this subject can aid swift referral and improve patient care.
Pain acceptance predicts healthcare utilization in women with chronic pelvic pain
Authors: Kreher Donna A , Li Rui , Gubbels Ashley L
Published: August 2022

Background:

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women is common and costly, and little is known about patient characteristics predicting healthcare utilization within this population. The present study examined the role of pain acceptance and pain catastrophizing, assessed prior to treatment initiation, in predicting future uptake of medical and surgical interventions specifically for pain management.

Methods:

Our sample comprised women referred to a tertiary gynecological center. Baseline pain catastrophizing and pain acceptance scores were compared across each major medication class and surgery type, as well as across the total number of medication classes and the total number of surgery types using analysis of variance (ANOVA). We then performed multivariable analyses for the association between pain catastrophizing and pain acceptance and treatment utilization by controlling for potential confounders.

Results:

Three hundred eighteen patients met inclusion criteria. Pain catastrophizing was associated with increased likelihood of neuromodulator prescription, while pain acceptance was associated with reduced likelihood of neuromodulator prescription and fewer medication classes prescribed. Overall, no associations between pain catastrophizing and surgeries were observed, while pain acceptance was significantly associated with lower risk of hysterectomy/oophorectomy.

Conclusion:

Pain acceptance was a robust predictor of number of medication classes prescribed and use of radical surgeries even when controlling stringently for confounders. It is worth considering routine assessment of pain acceptance early in treatment of CPP to identify those more at-risk of higher treatment utilization, and potentially mitigate this through engagement with appropriate behavioral therapies.
Caries Preventive Interventions and Oral Health Inequalities: A Scoping Review
Authors: van Meijeren-van Lunteren A.W. , You Y. , Raat H. , Wolvius E.B. , Kragt L.
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

Dental caries remains one of the most prevalent but preventable diseases among children worldwide and especially affects children with a lower socioeconomic status or ethnic minority background. It is important that all groups of children are reached by preventive interventions to reduce oral health inequalities. So far, it is unknown whether children from different social and ethnic groups benefit equally from potentially effective oral health interventions.

Objectives:

This scoping review aimed to identify European public health interventions that report their effect on dental caries across different social groups.

Methods:

Four databases were searched for studies evaluating the effect of oral health interventions on dental caries among children from 0 to 12 y, and studies were included when results were presented by children of different social groups separately.

Results:

A total of 14 studies were included, representing 4 different countries: 3 randomized and 11 nonrandomized studies. Most studies were performed at schools. Six studies showed results indicative of a reduction in oral health inequalities, 4 studies showed results that potentially widen oral health inequalities, and 5 studies showed results that were indicative of no impact on oral health inequalities. Interventions that contain early approaches, with a high frequency, approaching multiple levels of influence, and including at least the broader organizational or public policy level, may have the potential to reduce oral health inequalities among children from birth to young adolescence.

Conclusion:

We recommend researchers to perform high-quality intervention studies and to evaluate the effectiveness of oral health intervention always in different socioeconomic or ethnic groups separately, to better understand their contribution toward oral health (in)equalities.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

This review offers insight in the differential effects that oral health interventions might have across different social groups. Its results can be used to develop interventions that might reduce oral health inequalities among children. Also, we recommend future researchers to always evaluate the effects of any preventive oral health measure in different social groups separately.
D-dimer and reduced-dose apixaban for extended treatment after unprovoked venous thromboembolism: the Apidulcis study
Authors: Palareti Gualtiero , Poli Daniela , Ageno Walter , Legnani Cristina , Antonucci Emilia , Bucherini Eugenio , Testa Sophie , Paoletti Oriana , Chistolini Antonio , Serrao Alessandra , Martinelli Ida , Bucciarelli Paolo , Falanga Anna , Tosetto Alberto , Sarti Luca , Mastroiacovo Daniela , Cosmi Benilde , Visonà Adriana , Santoro Rita Carlotta , Zanatta Nello , Grandone Elvira , Bertù Lorenza , Pengo Vittorio , Caiano Lucia , Prandoni Paolo
Published: August 2022

D-dimer assay is used to stratify patients with unprovoked venous thromboembolism (VTE) for the risk of recurrence. However, this approach was never evaluated since direct oral anticoagulants are available. With this multicenter, prospective cohort study, we aimed to assess the value of an algorithm incorporating serial D-dimer testing and administration of reduced-dose apixaban (2.5 mg twice daily) only to patients with a positive test. A total of 732 outpatients aged 18 to 74 years, anticoagulated for ≥12 months after a first unprovoked VTE, were included. Patients underwent D-dimer testing with commercial assays and preestablished cutoffs. If the baseline D-dimer during anticoagulation was negative, anticoagulation was stopped and testing repeated after 15, 30, and 60 days. Patients with serially negative results (286 [39.1%]) were left without anticoagulation. At the first positive result, the remaining 446 patients (60.9%) were given apixaban for 18 months. All patients underwent follow-up planned for 18 months. The study was interrupted after a planned interim analysis for the high rate of primary outcomes (7.3%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.5-11.2), including symptomatic proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) recurrence, death for VTE, and major bleeding occurring in patients off anticoagulation vs that in those receiving apixaban (1.1%; 95% CI, 0.4-2.6; adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 8.2; 95% CI, 3.2-25.3). In conclusion, in patients anticoagulated for ≥1 year after a first unprovoked VTE, the decision to further extend anticoagulation should not be based on D-dimer testing. The results confirmed the high efficacy and safety of reduced-dose apixaban against recurrences. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03678506.
Species-specific identification of Pseudomonas based on 16S–23S rRNA gene internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and its combined application with next-generation sequencing
Authors: Hu Shuqian , Li Xiang , Yin Xin , Li Runmeng , Zhang Ruiyang , Zang Junhao , Liu Yin
Published: August 2022

Background

Pseudomonas species are widely distributed in the human body, animals, plants, soil, fresh water, seawater, etc. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the main pathogens involved in nosocomial infections. It can cause endocarditis, empyema, meningitis, septicaemia and even death. However, the Pseudomonas classification system is currently inadequate and not well established.

Results

In this study, the whole genomes of 103 Pseudomonas strains belonging to 62 species available in GenBank were collected and the specificity of the 16S–23S ribosomal RNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence was analysed. Secondary structures of ITS transcripts determining where the diversity bases were located were predicted. The alignment results using BLAST indicated that the ITS sequence is specific for most species in the genus. The remaining species were identified by additional frequency analyses based on BLAST results. A double-blind experiment where 200 ITS sequences were randomly selected indicated that this method could identify Pseudomonas species with 100% sensitivity and specificity. In addition, we applied a universal primer to amplify the Pseudomonas ITS of DNA extracts from fish samples with next-generation sequencing. The ITS analysis results were utilized to species-specifically identify the proportion of Pseudomonas species in the samples.

Conclusions

The present study developed a species-specific method identification and classification of Pseudomonas based on ITS sequences combined NGS. The method showed its potential application in other genera.
Construction of drought stress regulation networks in potato based on SMRT and RNA sequencing data
Authors: Jian Hongju , Sun Haonan , Liu Rongrong , Zhang Wenzhe , Shang Lina , Wang Jichun , Khassanov Vadim , Lyu Dianqiu
Published: August 2022

Background

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is the fourth most important food crop in the world and plays an important role in food security. Drought stress has a significantly negative impact on potato growth and production. There are several publications involved drought stress in potato, this research contributes to enrich the knowledge.

Results

In this study, next-generation sequencing (NGS) and single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing technology were used to study the transcription profiles in potato in response to 20%PEG6000 simulates drought stress. The leaves of the variety “Désirée” from in vitro plantlets after drought stress at six time points from 0 to 48 hours were used to perform NGS and SMRT sequencing. According to the sequencing data, a total of 12,798 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in six time points. The real-time (RT)-PCR results are significantly correlated with the sequencing data, confirming the accuracy of the sequencing data. Gene ontology and KEGG analysis show that these DEGs participate in response to drought stress through galactose metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, plant-pathogen interaction, glutathione metabolism and other pathways. Through the analysis of alternative splicing of 66,888 transcripts, the functional pathways of these transcripts were enriched, and 51,098 transcripts were newly discovered from alternative splicing events and 47,994 transcripts were functionally annotated. Moreover, 3445 lncRNAs were predicted and enrichment analysis of corresponding target genes was also performed. Additionally, Alternative polyadenylation was analyzed by TADIS, and 26,153 poly (A) sites from 13,010 genes were detected in the Iso-Seq data.

Conclusion

Our research greatly enhanced potato drought-induced gene annotations and provides transcriptome-wide insights into the molecular basis of potato drought resistance.
Validation of the Dutch translation of the quality of recovery-15 scale
Authors: de Vlieger Johannes C. N. , Luiting Willem H. , Lockyer Jessica , Meyer Peter , Fleer Joke , Sanderman Robbert , Wietasch J. K. Götz
Published: August 2022

Background

The 15-item Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) scale is strongly recommended as a standard patient-reported outcome measure assessing the quality of recovery after surgery and anesthesia in the postoperative period. This study aimed to validate the Dutch translation of the questionnaire (QoR-15NL).

Materials and methods

An observational, prospective, single-centre cohort study was conducted. Patients who underwent surgery under general anesthesia completed the QoR-15NL (preoperatively (t1) and twice postoperatively (t2 and t3)) and a visual analogue scale (VAS) for general recovery at t2. A psychometric evaluation was performed to assess the QoR-15NL’s validity, reliability, responsiveness, reproducibility and feasibility.

Results

Two hundred and eleven patients agreed to participate (recruitment rate 94%), and 165 patients were included (completion rate 78%). The QoR-15NL score correlated with the VAS for general recovery (rs = 0.59). Construct validity was further demonstrated by confirmation of expected negative associations between the QoR-15NL and duration of surgery (rs = -0.25), duration of Post Anesthesia Care Unit stay (rs = -0.31), and duration of hospital stay (rs = -0.27). The QoR-15NL score decreased significantly according to the extent of surgery. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.87, split-half reliability was 0.8, and the test–retest intra-class coefficient was 0.93. No significant floor- or ceiling effect was observed.

Conclusion

The QoR-15NL scale is a valid, easy-to-use, and reliable outcome assessment tool with high responsiveness for patient-reported quality of recovery after surgery and general anesthesia in the Dutch-speaking population. The QoR-15NL’s measurement properties are comparable to the original questionnaire and other translated versions.

Trial registration

not applicable.
Clinical and imaging features preoperative evaluation of histological grade and microvascular infiltration of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Ling , Lin Jiong-bin , Jia Ming , Zhang Chen-cai , Xu Rong , Guo Le , Lin Xiao-jia , Wang Quan-shi
Published: August 2022

Background

To predict the histological grade and microvascular invasion (MVI) in patients with HCC.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 175 patients who underwent MRI enhancement scanning (from September 2016.9 to October 2020). They were divided into MVI positive, MVI negative, Grade-high and Grade-low groups.

Results

The AFP of 175 HCC patients distributed in MVI positive and negative groups, Grade-low and Grade-high groups were statistically significant (P = 0.002 and 0.03, respectively). Multiple HCC lesions were more common in MVI positive and Grade-high groups. Correspondingly, more single lesions were found in MVI negative and Grade-low groups (P = 0.005 and 0.019, respectively). Capsule on MRI was more common in MVI negative and Grade-high groups, and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.02 and 0.011, respectively). There were statistical differences in the distribution of three MRI signs: artistic rim enhancement, artistic peripheral enhancement, and tumor margin between MVI positive and MVI negative groups (P = 0.001, < 0.001, and < 0.001, respectively). Tumor hypointensity on HBP was significantly different between MVI positive and negative groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our research shows that preoperative enhanced imaging can be used to predict MVI and tumor differentiation grade of HCC. The prognosis of MVI-negative group was better than that of MVI-positive group.
External validation of six clinical models for prediction of chronic kidney disease in a German population
Authors: Stolpe Susanne , Kowall Bernd , Zwanziger Denise , Frank Mirjam , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Erbel Raimund , Stang Andreas
Published: August 2022

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is responsible for large personal health and societal burdens. Screening populations at higher risk for CKD is effective to initiate earlier treatment and decelerate disease progress. We externally validated clinical prediction models for unknown CKD that might be used in population screening.

Methods

We validated six risk models for prediction of CKD using only non-invasive parameters. Validation data came from 4,185 participants of the German Heinz-Nixdorf-Recall study (HNR), drawn in 2000 from a general population aged 45–75 years. We estimated discrimination and calibration using the full model information, and calculated the diagnostic properties applying the published scoring algorithms of the models using various thresholds for the sum of scores.

Results

The risk models used four to nine parameters. Age and hypertension were included in all models. Five out of six c-values ranged from 0.71 to 0.73, indicating fair discrimination. Positive predictive values ranged from 15 to 19%, negative predictive values were > 93% using score thresholds that resulted in values for sensitivity and specificity above 60%.

Conclusions

Most of the selected CKD prediction models show fair discrimination in a German general population. The estimated diagnostic properties indicate that the models are suitable for identifying persons at higher risk for unknown CKD without invasive procedures.
Diversity of hemodynamic types in connective tissue disease associated pulmonary hypertension: more than a subgroup of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Dong Xingbei , Shi Yue , Xia Ying , Zhang Xiao , Qian Junyan , Zhao Jiuliang , Peng Jinmin , Wang Qian , Weng Li , Li Mengtao , Du Bin , Zeng Xiaofeng
Published: August 2022

Objective

Connective tissue disease associated pulmonary hypertension (CTD-PH) is classified as a subgroup of WHO group 1 PH, also called pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, not all CTD-PH fit hemodynamic definition of PAH. This study investigates the diversity of hemodynamic types of CTD-PH, their differences in clinical characteristics and outcomes.

Method

We performed a retrospective cohort study. CTD-PH patients were enrolled and divided into WHO group1 PH, WHO group 2 PH and hyperdynamic PH (mPAP > 20 mmHg, PVR < 3WU, PAWP < 15 mmHg) according to hemodynamics obtained by right heart catheterization. Patients with severe lung diseases, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, pulmonary embolism, and hepatic cirrhosis were excluded. Baseline characteristics, autoantibodies, cardiac function, echocardiogram parameters, hemodynamics and survival rates were compared.

Result

A total of 202 CTD-PH patients were included, 138 in WHO group 1 PH, 33 in WHO group 2 PH and 31 in hyperdynamic PH. We found hyperdynamic PH is less severe, presenting lower NT-proBNP level, better WHO function class, lower mPAP and PVR, higher cardiac output, and less cardiac remodeling. Incidence of anti-RNP was significantly lower in patients with elevated PAWP. Short-term survival was worse in WHO group 2 PH, yet 5-year survival rates didn’t differ between groups.

Conclusion

Considering diversity in hemodynamic types, CTD-PH is more than a subgroup of PAH. Different types of CTD-PH present different clinical phenotypes and outcome. Phenotyping PH in CTD-PH patients is important.
Machine learning algorithms’ accuracy in predicting kidney disease progression: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lei Nuo , Zhang Xianlong , Wei Mengting , Lao Beini , Xu Xueyi , Zhang Min , Chen Huifen , Xu Yanmin , Xia Bingqing , Zhang Dingjun , Dong Chendi , Fu Lizhe , Tang Fang , Wu Yifan
Published: August 2022

Background

Kidney disease progression rates vary among patients. Rapid and accurate prediction of kidney disease outcomes is crucial for disease management. In recent years, various prediction models using Machine Learning (ML) algorithms have been established in nephrology. However, their accuracy have been inconsistent. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of ML algorithms for kidney disease progression.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Chinese Biomedicine Literature Database, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, and the VIP Database for diagnostic studies on ML algorithms’ accuracy in predicting kidney disease prognosis, from the establishment of these databases until October 2020. Two investigators independently evaluate study quality by QUADAS-2 tool and extracted data from single ML algorithm for data synthesis using the bivariate model and the hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic (HSROC) model.

Results

Fifteen studies were left after screening, only 6 studies were eligible for data synthesis. The sample size of these 6 studies was 12,534, and the kidney disease types could be divided into chronic kidney disease (CKD) and Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy, with 5 articles using end-stage renal diseases occurrence as the primary outcome. The main results indicated that the area under curve (AUC) of the HSROC was 0.87 (0.84–0.90) and ML algorithm exhibited a strong specificity, 95% confidence interval and heterogeneity (I2) of (0.87, 0.84–0.90, [I2 99.0%]) and a weak sensitivity of (0.68, 0.58–0.77, [I2 99.7%]) in predicting kidney disease deterioration. And the the results of subgroup analysis indicated that ML algorithm’s AUC for predicting CKD prognosis was 0.82 (0.79–0.85), with the pool sensitivity of (0.64, 0.49–0.77, [I2 99.20%]) and pool specificity of (0.84, 0.74–0.91, [I2 99.84%]). The ML algorithm’s AUC for predicting IgA nephropathy prognosis was 0.78 (0.74–0.81), with the pool sensitivity of (0.74, 0.71–0.77, [I2 7.10%]) and pool specificity of (0.93, 0.91–0.95, [I2 83.92%]).

Conclusion

Taking advantage of big data, ML algorithm-based prediction models have high accuracy in predicting kidney disease progression, we recommend ML algorithms as an auxiliary tool for clinicians to determine proper treatment and disease management strategies.
Long-term maintenance of synaptic plasticity by Fullerenol Ameliorates lead-induced-impaired learning and memory in vivo
Authors: Zha Yingying , Jin Yan , Wang Xinxing , Chen Lin , Zhang Xulai , Wang Ming
Published: August 2022

Fullerenol, a functional and water-soluble fullerene derivative, plays an important role in antioxidant, antitumor and antivirus, implying its enormous potential in biomedical applications. However, the in vivo performance of fullerenol remains largely unclear. We aimed to investigate the effect of fullerenol (i.p., 5 mg/kg) on the impaired hippocampus in a rat model of lead exposure. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF–MS) is a kind of newly developed soft-ionization mass spectrometry technology. In the present study, an innovative strategy for biological distribution analysis using MALDI-TOF–MS confirmed that fullerenol could across the blood–brain barrier and accumulate in the brain. Results from behavioral tests showed that a low dose of fullerenol could improve the impaired learning and memory induced by lead. Furthermore, electrophysiology examinations indicated that this potential repair effect of fullerenol was mainly due to the long-term changes in hippocampal synaptic plasticity, with enhancement lasting for more than 2–3 h. In addition, morphological observations and biochemistry analyses manifested that the long-term change in synaptic efficacy was accompanied by some structural alteration in synaptic connection. Our study demonstrates the therapeutic feature of fullerenol will be beneficial to the discovery and development as a new drug and lays a solid foundation for further biomedical applications of nanomedicines.
A bioinformatics analysis: ZFHX4 is associated with metastasis and poor survival in ovarian cancer
Authors: Zong Shuai , Xu Ping-ping , Xu Yin-hai , Guo Yi
Published: August 2022

Background

Metastasis was the major cause of the high mortality in ovarian cancer. Although some mechanisms of metastasis in ovarian cancer were proposed, few have been targeted in the clinical practice. In the study, we aimed to identify novel genes contributing to metastasis and poor clinical outcome in ovarian cancer from bioinformatics databases.

Methods

Studies collecting matched primary tumors and metastases from ovarian cancer patients were searched in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened by software R language. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis for the DEGs were implemented by Metascape. Venn diagram was plotted to present overlapping DEGs. The associations between the overlapping DEGs and prognosis were tested by Cox proportional hazard regression model using a cohort of ovarian cancer patients from the TCGA database. Genes affecting patients’ outcomes significantly were served as hub genes. The mechanisms of the hub genes in promoting ovarian cancer metastasis were then predicted by R software.

Results

Two gene expression profiles (GSE30587 and GSE73168) met the inclusion criteria and were finally analyzed. A total of 259 genes were significantly differentially expressed in GSE30587, whereas 712 genes were in GSE73168. In GSE30587, DEGs were mainly involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) organization; For GSE73168, most of DEGs showed ion trans-membrane transport activity. There were 9 overlapping genes between the two datasets (RUNX2, FABP4, CLDN20, SVEP1, FAM169A, PGM5, ZFHX4, DCN and TAS2R50). ZFHX4 was proved to be an independent adverse prognostic factor for ovarian cancer patients (HR = 1.44, 95%CI: 1.13–1.83, p = 0.003). Mechanistically, ZFHX4 was positively significantly correlated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers (r = 0.54, p = 2.59 × 10−29) and ECM-related genes (r = 0.52, p = 2.86 × 10−27).

Conclusions

ZFHX4 might promote metastasis in ovarian cancer by regulating EMT and reprogramming ECM. For clinical applications, ZFHX4 was expected to be a prognostic biomarker for ovarian cancer metastasis.
Characteristics of risk factors for acute kidney injury among inpatients administered sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Shimizu Yuki , Hirai Toshinori , Ogawa Yukari , Yamada Chihiro , Kobayashi Emiko
Published: August 2022

Background

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (SMX/TMP) potentially increases the serum creatinine levels, resulting in acute kidney injury (AKI). However, the clinical characteristics of the AKI associated with SMX/TMP and the risk factors for its development have not been fully characterized.

Methods

A retrospective cohort observational analysis was conducted on adult inpatients who started SMX/TMP treatment at the Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Yachiyo Medical Center, from April 2018 to March 2020. The primary outcome was AKI, defined as an increase in serum creatinine level of ≥ 50% from baseline. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the risk factors for the AKI associated with SMX/TMP.

Results

Of the 281 patients, 32 (11.4%) developed AKI. The multivariate logistic regression analysis identified that body mass index (BMI) (odds ratio [OR] = 0.86, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.76–0.97,p < 0.01), presence of hypertension (OR = 2.69, 95% CI 1.11–6.49,p = 0.02), SMX/TMP daily dose (OR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.03–1.30,p = 0.02), and concomitant loop diuretic use (OR = 2.91, 95% CI 1.08–7.78,p = 0.04) were the associated risk factors for AKI in patients who were administered SMX/TMP.

Conclusions

This study showed that low BMI, hypertension, high-dose SMX/TMP, and concomitant loop diuretic use increased the risk of AKI in patients administered SMX/TMP. Clinicians should consider monitoring the renal function in patients at a high risk of AKI.
Primary grade 2 neuroendocrine tumor of the ileal mesentery: a case report
Authors: Morishita Shigemi , Yoshida Shinichi , Kamatani Yasufumi , Suzuhigashi Shinya , Kitou Masaki , Nasu Takuma
Published: August 2022

Background

The prevalence and incidence of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are increasing worldwide. Primary mesenteric NETs are extremely rare. Solid tumors that arise in the mesentery are typically metastatic. We present an extremely rare case of a primary grade 2 NET (NET G2) in the ileal mesentery.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old man was referred to our hospital for further examination of a previously diagnosed right mesenteric tumor. Mild tenderness was noted on the right side of the abdomen, but there were no palpable masses. Fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) revealed slight FDG uptake (maximum standardized uptake value, 2.0) in the right abdomen, and a benign or low-grade malignant tumor was suspected. We extracted the ileal mesenteric tumor with an ileal resection (90 cm). The cut surface of the 55 × 33 × 33 mm3 tumor was pale yellowish-white. Immunohistochemistry revealed diffuse staining for synaptophysin and chromogranin A, and focal staining for CD56. The Ki-67 index was 3%. The final pathological diagnosis was NET G2. The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful, and he developed no recurrence 1.5 years after surgery. Postoperative antitumor therapy was not performed for this patient because the histological diagnosis was NET G2, and it was determined that the tumor could be completely resected by surgery.

Conclusions

We report an extremely rare case of primary ileal mesenteric NET. Mesenteric tumors that show slight FDG uptake on FDG-PET examination should be considered well-differentiated NET.