bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-Media Discourse and Violence Against Journalists: Evidence From Chávez’s Venezuela
Authors: Mazzaro Kyong
Published: November 2021

Can political leaders’ anti-media rhetoric increase journalists’ vulnerability to non-state violence? Despite the abundance of anecdotal evidence, research on whether and how politicians’ verbal attacks against the “lying press” and “fake news” lead to non-state violence against journalists is limited. This study makes the case that features of the political landscape where anti-media proponents emerge explain why discourse increases journalists’ vulnerability to attacks. Because anti-media discourse is common in contexts where mechanisms of accountability for non-state violence against the press are already weak and electoral competition is fierce, what politicians say can be particularly consequential. Discourse legitimizes non-state attacks, signals to transgressors that violence will not be prosecuted, and paves the way for electorally motivated violence. I capitalize on case narratives collected by local human rights monitoring organizations and media transcripts to build an original dataset of anti-media messages and non-state attacks against journalists in Venezuela (2002–2013). Using survival and instrumental variable models, I show that politicians’ messages are positively correlated with non-state physical attacks against journalists, that the estimated effect of discourse on violence is largest in highly competitive electoral districts, and that electoral campaigns amplify the degree to which messages increase the incidence of attacks by party loyalists. I also show that the longer politicians sustain anti-media discourse, the more likely it is to increase journalists’ vulnerability to attacks.
Messaging “en Español”: The Impact of Spanish Language on Linked Fate Among Bilingual Latinos
Authors: Gomez-Aguinaga Barbara
Published: November 2021

While the number of U.S. residents who speak non-English languages at home is on the rise, little is known about the sociopolitical implications of exposure to minority languages among multilingual speakers in the United States. This study analyzes whether exposure to Spanish, a U.S. minority language, impacts perceptions of linked fate among bilingual Latinos, and if so, whether the consumption of ethnic media amplifies this effect. Through a population-based survey experiment among bilingual Latinos, this study finds that Latinos who are exposed to content in Spanish are more likely to report in-group linked fate than their counterparts exposed to the same message in English. Moreover, these effects are stronger among consumers of Spanish-language news. This study contributes to our understanding of the role of minority languages and ethnic media on pan-ethnic identities and highlights the importance of the growing linguistic diversity in the United States.
Determinants of intracranial aneurysm retreatment following embolization with a single flow-diverting stent
Authors: Vranic Justin E , Harker Pablo , Stapleton Christopher J , Regenhardt Robert W , Dmytriw Adam A , Alotaibi Naif M , Gupta Rajiv , Leslie-Mazwi Thabele M , Koch Matthew J , Raymond Scott B , Mascitelli Justin R , Patterson T Tyler , Seinfeld Joshua , White Andrew , Case David , Roark Christopher , Gandhi Chirag D , Al-Mufti Fawaz , Cooper Jared , Patel Aman B
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Flow diverting stents have revolutionized the treatment of intracranial aneurysms through endoluminal reconstruction of the parent vessel. Despite this, certain aneurysms require retreatment. The purpose of this study was to identify clinical and radiologic determinants of aneurysm retreatment following flow diversion.

Methods

A multicenter flow diversion database was evaluated to identify patients presenting with an unruptured, previously untreated aneurysm with a minimum of 12 months’ clinical and angiographic follow-up. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression modeling was performed to identify determinants of retreatment.

Results

We identified 189 aneurysms treated in 189 patients with a single flow-diverting stent. Mean age was 54 years, and 89% were female. Complete occlusion was achieved in 70.3% and 83.6% of patients at six and 12 months, respectively. Aneurysm retreatment with additional flow-diverting stents occurred in 5.8% of cases. Univariate analysis revealed that dome diameter [Formula: see text]10 mm ( p = 0.012), pre-clinoid internal carotid artery location ( p = 0.012), distal > proximal parent vessel diameter ( p = 0.042), and later dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) discontinuation ( p < 0.001) were predictive of retreatment. Multivariate analysis identified discontinuation of DAPT [Formula: see text]12 months ( p = 0.003) as a strong determinant of retreatment with dome diameter [Formula: see text]10 mm trending toward statistical significance ( p = 0.064). Large aneurysm neck diameter, presence of aneurysm branch vessels, patient age, smoking history, and hypertension were not determinant of retreatment on multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Prolonged DAPT is the most important determinant of aneurysm retreatment following single-device flow diversion. Abbreviating DAPT duration to only six months should be a consideration in this population, especially for patients with a large aneurysm dome diameter.
Management of sleep disorders in the menopausal transition
Authors: Schaedel Zoe , Holloway Debra , Bruce Deborah , Rymer Janice
Published: November 2021

The menopausal transition is associated with increasing sleep disorders including sleep apnoea and restless leg syndrome. Insomnia is the most common and is recognised as a core symptom of the menopause. Guidelines to support decision making for women with sleep problems during the menopausal transition are lacking. Sleep problems are associated with negative impacts on healthcare utilisation, quality of life and work productivity. Sleep deprivation is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and neurobehavioral dysfunction. Declining oestrogen is implicated as a cause of menopausal sleep disruption. Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) and menopausal mood disturbance are also factors in the complex aetiology. VMS commonly precipitate insomnia and, due to their prolonged duration, they often perpetuate the condition. Insomnia in the general population is most effectively treated with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) (also effective in the menopausal transition.) The associations of menopausal sleep disturbance with VMS and depression mean that other treatment options must be considered. Existing guidelines outline effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), CBT and antidepressants. HRT may indirectly help with sleep disturbance by treating VMS and also via beneficial effect on mood symptoms. The evidence base underpinning menopausal insomnia often references risks associated with HRT that are not in line with current international menopause guidelines. This may influence clinicians managing sleep disorders, leading to hesitation in offering HRT, despite evidence of effectiveness. Viewing sleep symptoms on an axis of menopausal symptoms – towards vasomotor symptoms or towards mood symptoms may help tailor treatment options towards the symptom profile.
Regional Hypertonic Citrate Anticoagulation in Membrane Therapeutic Plasma Exchange: A Case Series
Authors: Reis Thiago , Ramos de Freitas Geraldo Rubens , Reis Fábio , Cascelli de Azevedo Maria Letícia , Dias Priscila , Figueiredo Santos Diêgo Fernando , Vivanco Vergara Rodrigo Alfredo , Sgarabotto Luca , Reis da Silva Filho Evandro , Ronco Claudio
Published: November 2021

Rationale:

Protocols for regional citrate anticoagulation with the hypertonic 4% trisodium citrate solution have been recently described as an anticoagulation strategy during membrane therapeutic plasma exchange (mTPE). The effect of citrate in the patient’s systemic hemostasis is negligible, thus regional citrate anticoagulation application is advantageous in circumstances in which heparin-based protocols are deemed unsafe for patients with a high risk of bleeding. The downsides of using hypertonic citrate solutions are mainly hypocalcemia and hypernatremia that ultimately can cause adverse clinical events.

Presenting concerns of the patient:

(1) A 57-year-old Caucasian female with a history of active vaginal bleeding secondary to endometrial hyperplasia. She had a history of antiphospholipid syndrome, and systemic lupus erythematosus with marked refractory autoimmune thrombocytopenia. Her platelet count was persistently below 4,000/mm3 even after different immunosuppressive regimens and daily platelet transfusions. (1) A 70-year-old Caucasian female was hospitalized presenting acute kidney injury stage 3 due to rapidly progressive antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis, however without the need for renal replacement therapy. At admission, serum creatinine (sCr) was 3.56 mg/dL (normal range: 0.53-1.00 mg/dL). Her baseline sCr was 0.8 mg/dL obtained 6 months earlier. Chest tomography revealed bilateral masses compatible with granulomatous lesions and no signs of alveolar bleeding. Since severe cases of ANCA vasculitis involving the lungs may evolve with alveolar hemorrhage, heparin was avoided.

Diagnoses:

(1) Systemic lupus erythematosus-associated autoimmune thrombocytopenia and (2) ANCA-associated vasculitis with kidney and lung involvement.

Interventions:

Herein, we describe a case series of 12 consecutive mTPE treatments in 2 different patients using regional 4% trisodium citrate anticoagulation.

Outcomes:

All the sessions were uneventful, presented only minor electrolyte imbalances, and were effectively completed without early interruptions due to clotting of the plasmafilter.

Teaching points:

In our 2 cases, extracorporeal regional citrate anticoagulation was successful in optimizing plasmafilter patency without bleeding events in 2 high-risk patients using established protocols for the citrate and calcium infusions.
Trends and socioeconomic differentials in depression prevalence in China, 2010–2018
Authors: Luo Weixiang , Zhao Mengke
Published: November 2021

Numerous studies have investigated the prevalence and social correlates of depression in China, but less is known about trends in depression prevalence and inequalities across time. Using nationally representative data from the China Family Panel Studies, we examine patterns of depressive symptoms over time from 2010 to 2018 among Chinese adults. We assess trends across time in depression disparities by educational attainment and household income using random-intercept logistic regression models. We find that the overall prevalence of depressive symptoms increased significantly in China over this period of time; increases in depression were significant for men and women, rural and urban residents, and the non-elderly. We also find that the rate of increase in depressive symptoms was more rapid among people with high levels of education and family income. Thus, though depression inequalities favor higher socioeconomic groups, this disparity is declining.
The trajectory of subjective social status and its multiple determinants in contemporary China
Authors: Zhou Yang
Published: November 2021

Subjective social status is an individual's perception of his/her position in the social stratum, and it shapes social inequality in a perceived way. By using the China Family Panel Studies and employing growth curve modeling strategies, this article examines the subjective social status trajectories of Chinese people between 2010 and 2018 and how these trajectories are shaped by objective social status. The empirical findings show that the distribution of subjective social status in each wave (2010, 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2018) presents a middle-class identification, which means that the majority of people tend to position their subjective social status at the middle level, while the overall trend in average subjective social status has increased over time. The results of trajectory analysis show that different objective socioeconomic status indicators have different effects on the baseline value and rate of growth in subjective social status, which suggests that the trajectories of subjective social status are influenced by multiple determinants in China. While education, income and political capital reduce the gaps between the classes in subjective social status over time, wealth and employment status enlarge these gaps and thus enhance subjective social inequality. This article highlights the gradient effect that wealth has on the dynamics of subjective social status and helps us to better understand subjective social stratification in contemporary China.
Mediating Effect of Materialism on the Relationship between Socialization and Consumer Decision-Making Styles
Authors: Chaudhary Sartaj , Dey Ajoy Kumar
Published: November 2021

Despite the importance of materialism as an influencer of consumer value, scant research has focused on its underlying association with socialization and consumer decision-making styles (CDMS). Based on the stimulus–response model, this study examined whether the relationship between socialization and hedonistic and utilitarian types of CDMS is mediated by materialism. Survey data from a sample of 1,050 young consumers from six schools of the national capital region of India were used to test the hypothesis. Confirmatory factor analysis affirmed socialization agents, materialism and CDMS as second-order constructs. Regression analyses were used to assess mediation effects in the relationship between socialization and hedonistic and utilitarian CDMS. Results show that materialism partially mediates the relationship between socialization agents and hedonistic CDMS but fully mediates the relationship between socialization and utilitarian CDMS. The results offer implications for practice and policymakers concerning young consumers. To further generalize the findings of this study, youngsters from different age groups with varying economic backgrounds should be probed. This is the first empirical article to investigate the mediating role of materialism in the context of socialization and CDMS.
Management of Outpatient Elective Surgery for Arthroplasty and Sports Medicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review
Authors: Comfort Spencer M. , Murata Yoichi , Pierpoint Lauren A. , Philippon Marc J.
Published: November 2021

Background:

The onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has presented unforeseeable challenges to the orthopaedic community, especially arthroplasty and sports medicine subspecialities, as many surgeries were deemed nonessential and delayed. Although there is a glimpse of hope with the approval and distribution of vaccines, daily case numbers and death tolls continue to rise at the time of this review.

Purpose:

To summarize the available literature on the management of elective sports medicine and arthroplasty procedures in the outpatient setting to gather a consolidated source of information.

Study Design:

Scoping review; Level of evidence, 5.

Methods:

A scoping review of 3 databases (PubMed, Embase, and OVID Medline) was performed using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) checklist. All retrospective and prospective analyses, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, expert opinions, and societal guidelines were included for review, with 29 articles meeting the inclusion criteria.

Results:

Guidance for resumption of elective arthroplasty and sports medicine surgery and patient selection during the COVID-19 pandemic focuses on resource availability, patient fitness, and time sensitivity of the procedure, with patient and surgical team safety as the highest priority. Telemedicine and other innovative technology can be used to continue patient care during periods of delayed surgery through monitoring disease progression and offering nonoperative management options.

Conclusion:

While the current societal recommendations provide guidance on safety protocols and patient prioritization, each orthopaedic practice must consider its unique situation and use evidence-based medicine when determining surgical timing and patient selection.
Maps of the West Bank in Jordanian Postage Stamps, 1952–1985
Authors: Sharnoff Michael
Published: November 2021

This article examines Jordanian postage stamp depiction of the West Bank as part of the Hashemite Kingdom from 1952 to 1985. The majority of maps of the West Bank are featured as part of Jordan, both during Jordanian rule of the West Bank (1948–1967) and after Israel conquered the land during the 1967 war. Sometimes the West Bank is delineated from Jordan to suggest a territorial dispute with Israel, while other times, the West Bank is shown as part of Palestine. The ambiguous representations of the West Bank as Jordanian territory, disputed territory, and Palestinian territory reinforce Hashemite sovereignty claims to the West Bank while also supporting Palestinian rights and acknowledging Jordanian rule of the West Bank was conditional upon settlement of the Palestinian issue. Finally, this analysis seeks to explain why stamps stopped showing the West Bank as part of Jordan in 1985, three years before the kingdom formally severed all legal and administrative ties to the land.
Measuring Gender Role Attitudes in Japan
Authors: Crabtree Charles , Muroga Kiho
Published: November 2021

What explains gender discrimination in Japan? While Japan ranks near the worst among advanced democracies in nearly all cross-national gender equality rankings, we know little about the attitudes that drive disparate outcomes between men and women. To address this need, the authors develop, introduce, and validate the first measure of gender role attitudes in Japan, the Gender Role Scale. Using data from a large, national, quota-based sample of 2,389 Japanese conducted in March 2020, the authors visualize the subcomponents of Gender Role Scale, showing cross-gender differences in attitudes. The findings extend the large literature on politics and gender and provide a measure for reuse in Japan and for extension to other countries that lag behind in women’s empowerment.
The Expressive Function of #VictimsLaw: Developing a Substantive and Enforceable Framework of Rights and Remedies in Response to Local Need and the Emerging forms of Victimization
Authors: Kirchengast Tyrone
Published: November 2021

All too often, the law fails victims because it is placatory and unenforceable. The law fails to provide real support and redress when victims need it. Recent international attention has moved to consider the benefits of a victims’ law, one that provides for recognition, dignity and respect for victims by enhancing victim agency through a type of justice which is both substantive and enforceable. It aims to provide higher levels of transparency and accountability of public officials, including the police, prosecution and courts. Such a law builds upon previous attempts at enforceable rights by ascribing a more comprehensive human rights framework compatible with the fair trial process, by granting victims the right to be informed, present and heard within the investigative and trial process more broadly. This article will consider the feasibility of a victims’ law by examining what it offers the recently addressed or emerging forms of victimization. Three examples trending on the #victimslaw hashtag are selected for analysis—domestic and gendered violence; modern slavery and servitude; and coercive control, cyber-abuse and harm. The extent to which a victims’ law provides a meaningful way of ratifying international standards and norms against domestic law and policy is assessed against the needs of those most vulnerable victims of abuse and neglect.
Esophageal Manometry Testing and Anti-Reflux Surgery: The Preoperative Necessity and Prognostic Utility
Authors: Ayazi Shahin
Published: November 2021

Manometric assessment of the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) and esophageal body is the key to a better understanding of the mechanics of antireflux surgery (ARS) and maximizing its benefits while minimizing adverse outcomes. However, there is an attitude of uncertainty regarding the necessity of esophageal motility prior to ARS among some surgeons. This evidence-based review highlights the critical role of manometry in the preoperative workup for patients undergoing ARS. It also discusses how manometry can detect findings associated with favorable outcomes or the risk of postoperative dysphagia. Manometric data can be used for risk stratification and the prediction of outcomes, aiding the surgeon in matching an operation to the specific physiology of each individual patient.
Esophageal Motility Disorders and Diverticula: Physiologic Implication and Surgical Considerations
Authors: Sudarshan Monisha , Murthy Sudish
Published: November 2021

Zenker’s diverticula are the most common diverticula of the esophagus and attributed to a hypertensive non-compliant cricopharyngeus muscle with reduced sphincter opening. Cricopharygeus myotomy is the treatment with variable management of the diverticulum. Mid-esophageal diverticula are classically attributed to traction, though many are associated with dysmotility similar to epiphrenic/distal esophageal diverticula. Myotomy is again key for symptomatic presentations. Resection of the diverticula and a partial fundoplication are other components in the surgical management. Although treatment of diverticula has evolved over the decades, it remains a rare condition often associated with significant pre-operative symptomatology and post-operative morbidity.
Functional Luminal Imaging Probe (FLIP) as an Adjunctive Modality in Evaluation of Esophageal Dysmotility
Authors: Farina Domenico A. , Carlson Dustin A.
Published: November 2021

The Functional Luminal Imaging Probe (FLIP) has emerged as a valuable adjunctive tool in the evaluation of esophageal diseases. Using volumetric distension, FLIP can assess secondary peristalsis and detect esophageal abnormalities that may not be evaluated by high-resolution manometry (HRM). In certain clinical settings, FLIP may allow for deferral of HRM. In therapy for esophageal diseases, FLIP has demonstrated value for its real-time interpretation, which can be used intra-procedurally to tailor therapy and to predict post-therapy outcomes. The future of FLIP looks promising as surgeons and gastroenterologists place increasing emphasis on non-manometric data to diagnose esophageal motility disorders.
Thermal face recognition under different conditions
Authors: Lin Shinfeng D. , Chen Luming , Chen Wensheng
Published: November 2021

Background

A thermal face recognition under different conditions is proposed in this article. The novelty of the proposed method is applying temperature information in the recognition of thermal face. The physiological information is obtained from the face using a thermal camera, and a machine learning classifier is utilized for thermal face recognition. The steps of preprocessing, feature extraction and classification are incorporated in training phase. First of all, by using Bayesian framework, the human face can be extracted from thermal face image. Several thermal points are selected as a feature vector. These points are utilized to train Random Forest (RF). Random Forest is a supervised learning algorithm. It is an ensemble of decision trees. Namely, RF merges multiple decision trees together to obtain a more accurate classification. Feature vectors from the testing image are fed into the classifier for face recognition.

Results

Experiments were conducted under different conditions, including normal, adding noise, wearing glasses, face mask, and glasses with mask. To compare the performance with the convolutional neural network-based technique, experimental results of the proposed method demonstrate its robustness against different challenges.

Conclusions

Comparisons with other techniques demonstrate that the proposed method is robust under less feature points, which is around one twenty-eighth to one sixtieth of those by other classic methods.
Estimated plasma volume status (ePVS) is a predictor for acute myocardial infarction in-hospital mortality: analysis based on MIMIC-III database
Authors: Chen Jun , Shen Jiayi , Cai Dongsheng , Wei Tiemin , Qian Renyi , Zeng Chunlai , Lyu Lingchun
Published: November 2021

Background

Estimated plasma volume status (ePVS) has been reported that associated with poor prognosis in heart failure patients. However, no researchinvestigated the association of ePVS and prognosis in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Therefore, we aimed to determine the association between ePVS and in-hospital mortality in AMI patients.

Methods and results

We extracted AMI patients data from MIMIC-III database. A generalized additive model and logistic regression model were used to demonstrate the association between ePVS levels and in-hospital mortality in AMI patients. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was used to pooled the in-hospital mortality between the various group. ROC curve analysis were used to assessed the discrimination of ePVS for predicting in-hospital mortality. 1534 eligible subjects (1004 males and 530 females) with an average age of 67.36 ± 0.36 years old were included in our study finally. 136 patients (73 males and 63 females) died in hospital, with the prevalence of in-hospital mortality was 8.9%. The result of the Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that the high-ePVS group (ePVS ≥ 5.28 mL/g) had significant lower survival possibility in-hospital admission compared with the low-ePVS group (ePVS < 5.28 mL/g). In the unadjusted model, high-level of ePVS was associated with higher OR (1.09; 95% CI 1.06–1.12; P < 0.001) compared with low-level of ePVS. After adjusted the vital signs data, laboratory data, and treatment, high-level of ePVS were also associated with increased OR of in-hospital mortality, 1.06 (95% CI 1.03–1.09; P < 0.001), 1.05 (95% CI 1.01–1.08; P = 0.009), 1.04 (95% CI 1.01–1.07; P = 0.023), respectively. The ROC curve indicated that ePVS has acceptable discrimination for predicting in-hospital mortality. The AUC value was found to be 0.667 (95% CI 0.653–0.681).

Conclusion

Higher ePVS values, calculated simply from Duarte’s formula (based on hemoglobin/hematocrit) was associated with poor prognosis in AMI patients. EPVS is a predictor for predicting in-hospital mortality of AMI, and could help refine risk stratification.
Impact of cone-beam computed tomography with automated feeder detection software on the survival outcome of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma during treatment with conventional transarterial chemoembolization
Authors: Bannangkoon Kittipitch , Hongsakul Keerati , Tubtawee Teeravut
Published: November 2021

Background

Inoperable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is treated by conventional transarterial chemoembolization (cTACE) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) or digital subtraction angiography (DSA). We compared patient survival outcomes between CBCT-cTACE with automated tumor-feeder detection (AFD) software and DSA-cTACE alone in inoperable HCC patients.

Methods

We reviewed the data of 337 HCC patients treated by CBCT-cTACE or DSA-cTACE between January 2015 and December 2019. Treatment response, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and complications between the CBCT-cTACE and DSA-cTACE groups were compared. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses examined the potential prognostic factors affecting survival after chemoembolization.

Results

Tumor response rates in complete response, partial response, and stable disease at 1 month were 67%, 28%, and 4% in the CBCT-cTACE group and 22%, 48%, and 9% in the DSA-cTACE group, respectively. OS rates of patients in the CBCT-cTACE versus DSA-cTACE groups were 87% versus 54%, 44% versus 15%, and 34% versus 7% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. The CBCT-cTACE group had significantly improved PFS (p < 0.001) and OS (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that CBCT with AFD software was an independent factor associated with longer OS (hazard ratio, 0.38; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Compared with conventional DSA, combining selective cTACE with CBCT and AFD software leads to better tumor response and prolongs OS in patients with inoperable HCC.
Primary stability of the Activ L® intervertebral disc prosthesis in cadaver bone and comparison of the keel and spike anchoring concept
Authors: von Schulze Pellengahr Christoph , Teske Wolfram , Kapoor Saurabh , Klein Alexander , Wegener Bernd , Büttner Andreas , Lahner Matthias
Published: November 2021

Background

High primary stability is the key prerequisite for safe osseointegration of cementless intervertebral disc prostheses. The aim of our study was to determine the primary stability of intervertebral disc prostheses with two different anchoring concepts – keel and spike anchoring.

Methods

Ten ActivL intervertebral disc prostheses (5 x keel anchoring, 5 x spike anchoring) implanted in human cadaver lumbar spine specimens were tested in a spine movement simulator. Axial load flexion, extension, left and right bending and axial rotation motions were applied on the lumbar spine specimens through a defined three-dimensional movement program following ISO 2631 and ISO/CD 18192-1.3 standards. Tri-dimensional micromotions of the implants were measured for both anchor types and compared using Student’s T-test for significance after calculating 95 % confidence intervals.

Results

In the transverse axis, the keel anchoring concept showed statistically significant (p < 0.05) lower mean values of micromotions compared to the spike anchoring concept. The highest micromotion values for both types were observed in the longitudinal axis. In no case the threshold of 200 micrometers was exceeded.

Conclusions

Both fixation systems fulfill the required criteria of primary stability. Independent of the selected anchorage type an immediate postoperative active mobilization doesn’t compromise the stability of the prostheses.
Chinese patent herbal medicine Huaiqihuang for Henoch-Schonlein purpura nephritis in children: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Xue Xue , Liu Xue-han , Lu Chun-li , Jin Xin-yan , Liu Qiang , Wang Xiao-qin , Liu Jian-ping
Published: November 2021

Background

Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN) is listed as the most common secondary glomerular diseases among children. Approximately 15 to 20% of children eventually could develop into chronic renal failure. Chinese patent herbal medicine Huaiqihuang (HQH) has been widely used in children with HSPN. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of HQH for HSPN in children, so as to provide evidence for clinical use.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on HQH for HSPN in children were searched in eight Chinese and English databases from their inception to December 2020. We included children with HSPN received HQH combined with conventional medicine. Cochrane “Risk of bias” tool was used to assess methodological quality, and “Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach” to summarize the certainty of evidence for main findings. Effect estimates were presented as risk ratio (RR), mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) in meta-analyses using RevMan 5.3. Data not suitable for statistical pooling were synthesized qualitatively.

Results

In total seven RCTs were identified. Compared with conventional medicine alone, HQH plus conventional medicine showed the better effect in improving clinical cure rate (RR 1.58; 95%CI 1.17 to 2.14; n = 6) and total effective rate (RR 1.34; 1.16 to 1.54; n = 6); reducing urine sediment erythrocyte count (MD -9.23; − 10.76 to − 7.69; n = 3) and urine β2 micro-globulin level (MD -0.09; − 0.12 to − 0.06; n = 2). No serious adverse event was recorded in all included trials.

Conclusions

Limited evidence showed HQH combined with conventional medicine had a beneficial effect for children with HSPN, and the side effects were mild. HQH may be a promising complementary therapy. However, long term follow-up, high quality and multicenter RCTs are required to confirm the findings.
Quantifying the impact of addressing data challenges in prediction of length of stay
Authors: Naemi Amin , Schmidt Thomas , Mansourvar Marjan , Ebrahimi Ali , Wiil Uffe Kock
Published: November 2021

Background

Prediction of length of stay (LOS) at admission time can provide physicians and nurses insight into the illness severity of patients and aid them in avoiding adverse events and clinical deterioration. It also assists hospitals with more effectively managing their resources and manpower.

Methods

In this field of research, there are some important challenges, such as missing values and LOS data skewness. Moreover, various studies use a binary classification which puts a wide range of patients with different conditions into one category. To address these shortcomings, first multivariate imputation techniques are applied to fill incomplete records, then two proper resampling techniques, namely Borderline-SMOTE and SMOGN, are applied to address data skewness in the classification and regression domains, respectively. Finally, machine learning (ML) techniques including neural networks, extreme gradient boosting, random forest, support vector machine, and decision tree are implemented for both approaches to predict LOS of patients admitted to the Emergency Department of Odense University Hospital between June 2018 and April 2019. The ML models are developed based on data obtained from patients at admission time, including pulse rate, arterial blood oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, systolic blood pressure, triage category, arrival ICD-10 codes, age, and gender.

Results

The performance of predictive models before and after addressing missing values and data skewness is evaluated using four evaluation metrics namely receiver operating characteristic, area under the curve (AUC), R-squared score (R2), and normalized root mean square error (NRMSE). Results show that the performance of predictive models is improved on average by 15.75% for AUC, 32.19% for R2score, and 11.32% for NRMSE after addressing the mentioned challenges. Moreover, our results indicate that there is a relationship between the missing values rate, data skewness, and illness severity of patients, so it is clinically essential to take incomplete records of patients into account and apply proper solutions for interpolation of missing values.

Conclusion

We propose a new method comprised of three stages: missing values imputation, data skewness handling, and building predictive models based on classification and regression approaches. Our results indicated that addressing these challenges in a proper way enhanced the performance of models significantly, which led to a more valid prediction of LOS.
Brain transcriptome analysis of a CLN2 mouse model as a function of disease progression
Authors: Domowicz Miriam S. , Chan Wen-Ching , Claudio-Vázquez Patricia , Gonzalez Tatiana , Schwartz Nancy B.
Published: November 2021

Background

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses, (NCLs or Batten disease) are a group of inherited, early onset, fatal neurodegenerative diseases associated with mutations in 13 genes. All forms of the disease are characterized by lysosomal accumulation of fluorescent storage material, as well as profound neurodegeneration, but the relationship of the various genes’ function to a single biological process is not obvious. In this study, we used a well-characterized mouse model of classical late infantile NCL (cLINCL) in which the tripeptidyl peptidase 1 (Tpp1) gene is disrupted by gene targeting, resulting in loss of detectable TPP1 activity and leading to progressive neurological phenotypes including ataxia, increased motor deficiency, and early death.

Methods

In order to identify genes and pathways that may contribute to progression of the neurodegenerative process, we analyzed forebrain/midbrain and cerebellar transcriptional differences at 1, 2, 3 and 4 months of age in control and TPP1-deficient mice by global RNA-sequencing.

Results

Progressive neurodegenerative inflammatory responses involving microglia, astrocytes and endothelial cells were observed, accompanied by activation of leukocyte extravasation signals and upregulation of nitric oxide production and reactive oxygen species. Several astrocytic (i.e., Gfap, C4b, Osmr, Serpina3n) and microglial (i.e., Ctss, Itgb2, Itgax, Lyz2) genes were identified as strong markers for assessing disease progression as they showed increased levels of expression in vivo over time. Furthermore, transient increased expression of choroid plexus genes was observed at 2 months in the lateral and fourth ventricle, highlighting an early role for the choroid plexus and cerebrospinal fluid in the disease pathology. Based on these gene expression changes, we concluded that neuroinflammation starts, for the most part, after 2 months in the Tpp1−/− brain and that activation of microglia and astrocytes occur more rapidly in cerebellum than in the rest of the brain; confirming increased severity of inflammation in this region.

Conclusions

These findings have led to a better understanding of cLINCL pathological onset and progression, which may aid in development of future therapeutic treatments for this disease.
A lysosome-targeted dextran-doxorubicin nanodrug overcomes doxorubicin-induced chemoresistance of myeloid leukemia
Authors: Zeng Yunxin , Zhang Xinyu , Lin Dongjun , Feng Xiaohui , Liu Yuye , Fang Zhengwen , Zhang Weijian , Chen Yu , Zhao Meng , Wu Jun , Jiang Linjia
Published: November 2021

The hypoxic microenvironment is presumed to be a sanctuary for myeloid leukemia cells that causes relapse following chemotherapy, but the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Using a zebrafish xenograft model, we observed that the hypoxic hematopoietic tissue preserved most of the chemoresistant leukemic cells following the doxorubicin (Dox) treatment. And hypoxia upregulated TFEB, a master regulator of lysosomal biogenesis, and increased lysosomes in leukemic cells. Specimens from relapsed myeloid leukemia patients also harbored excessive lysosomes, which trapped Dox and prevented drug nuclear influx leading to leukemia chemoresistance. Pharmaceutical inhibition of lysosomes enhanced Dox-induced cytotoxicity against leukemic cells under hypoxia circumstance. To overcome lysosome associated chemoresistance, we developed a pH-sensitive dextran-doxorubicin nanomedicine (Dex-Dox) that efficiently released Dox from lysosomes and increased drug nuclear influx. More importantly, Dex-Dox treatment significantly improved the chemotherapy outcome in the zebrafish xenografts transplanted with cultured leukemic cells or relapsed patient specimens. Overall, we developed a novel lysosome targeting nanomedicine that is promising to overcome the myeloid leukemia chemoresistance.
DNMT1-induced miR-378a-3p silencing promotes angiogenesis via the NF-κB signaling pathway by targeting TRAF1 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Bin , Chen Jun-Jie , Feng Ying , Yang Jun-Ling , Huang Hua , Chung Wen Yuan , Hu Yi-Lin , Xue Wan-Jiang
Published: November 2021

Background

Angiogenesis plays an important role in the occurrence, development and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). According to previous studies, miR-378a participates in tumorigenesis and tumor metastasis, but its exact role in HCC angiogenesis remains poorly understood.

Methods

qRT-PCR was used to investigate the expression of miR-378a-3p in HCC tissues and cell lines. The effects of miR-378a-3p on HCC in vitro and in vivo were examined by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), Transwell, tube formation and Matrigel plug assays, RNA sequencing, bioinformatics, luciferase reporter, immunofluorescence and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were used to detect the molecular mechanism by which miR-378a-3p inhibits angiogenesis.

Results

We confirmed that miR-378a-3p expression was significantly downregulated and associated with higher microvascular density (MVD) in HCC; miR-378a-3p downregulation indicated a short survival time in HCC patients. miR-378a-3p knockdown led to a significant increase in angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. We found that miR-378a-3p directly targeted TNF receptor associated factor 1 (TRAF1) to attenuate NF-κB signaling, and then downregulated secreted vascular endothelial growth factor. DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1)-mediated hypermethylation of miR-378a-3p was responsible for downregulating miR-378a-3p. Moreover, a series of investigations indicated that p65 initiated a positive feedback loop that could upregulate DNMT1 to promote hypermethylation of the miR-378a-3p promoter.

Conclusion

Our study indicates a novel DNMT1/miR-378a-3p/TRAF1/NF-κB positive feedback loop in HCC cells, which may become a potential therapeutic target for HCC.
Diagnostic challenge and surgical management of Boerhaave’s syndrome: a case series
Authors: Wang Jiayue , Wang Degang , Chen Jianjiao
Published: November 2021

Background

Boerhaave’s syndrome is the spontaneous rupture of the esophagus, which requires early diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms may vary, and diagnosis can be challenging.

Case presentation

Case 1: A 54-year-old Chinese man presented to us with sudden-onset epigastric pain radiating to the back following hematemesis. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a full-thickness rupture of the esophageal wall. Subsequent computed tomography showed frank pneumomediastinum and heterogeneous pleural effusion. Immediately, esophageal perforation repair operation and jejunostomy were performed. The postoperative period was uneventful, and he was discharged.

Case 2: A 62-year-old Chinese man was admitted to the emergency department with thoracic dull pain and chest distress. Chest computed tomography scan showed pneumomediastinum and large left-sided pleural effusion. Esophagus fistula was confirmed by contrast esophagography. Then, we performed thoracotomy to repair the esophageal tear as well as to debride and irrigate the left pleural space. His postoperative period was uneventful, with no leakage or stricture.

Case 3: The patient was a 69-year-old Chinese male presenting with severe retrosternal and upper abdominal pain following an episode of forceful vomiting. Thoracic computed tomography scan revealed a rupture in the left distal part of the esophagus, a pneumomediastinum, and left-sided pleural effusions. Conservative treatment failed to improve disease conditions. Open thoracic surgery was performed with debridement and drainage of the mediastinum and the pleural cavity, after which he made a slow but full recovery.

Conclusions

We highlight that early diagnosis and appropriate surgical treatment are essential for optimum outcome in patients with esophageal rupture. We emphasize the importance of critical care support, particularly in the early stages of management.
Celebrity worship and cognitive skills revisited: applying Cattell’s two-factor theory of intelligence in a cross-sectional study
Authors: McCutcheon Lynn E. , Zsila Ágnes , Demetrovics Zsolt
Published: November 2021

Background

Almost two decades of research produced mixed findings on the relationship between celebrity worship and cognitive skills. Several studies demonstrated that cognitive performance slightly decreases with higher levels of celebrity worship, while other studies found no association between these constructs. This study has two aims: (1) to extend previous research on the association between celebrity worship and cognitive skills by applying the two-factor theory of intelligence by Cattell on a relatively large sample of Hungarian adults, and (2) to investigate the explanatory power of celebrity worship and other relevant variables in cognitive performance.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design was used. Applying an online survey, a total of 1763 Hungarian adults (66.42% male, Mage = 37.22 years, SD = 11.38) completed two intelligence subtests designed to measure ability in vocabulary (Vocabulary Test) and digit symbol (Short Digit Symbol Test). Participants also completed the Celebrity Attitude Scale and the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale. Subjective material wealth, current family income and general sociodemographics were also reported by participants.

Results

Linear regression models indicated that celebrity worship was associated with lower performance on the cognitive tests even after controlling for demographic variables, material wealth and self-esteem, although the explanatory power was limited.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that there is a direct association between celebrity worship and poorer performance on the cognitive tests that cannot be accounted for by demographic and socioeconomic factors.
Correlation between community balance and mobility scale (CB&M) with a battery of outcome measures to assess balance in Parkinson’s disease – a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dsouza Ziona Lionel , Rebello Sydney Roshan , Dsilva Cherishma
Published: November 2021

Background

Evaluating balance in a functional context that integrates challenging tasks frequently performed in the community is essential to identify community-dwelling individuals who are at risk of falls in early Parkinson Disease (PD) than a simple balance measure. Community Balance and Mobility (CB&M) scale is one such measure that evaluates severe deficits in gait, balance, and mobility. The risk of falling and fear of fall is common among PD individuals and this affects the day to day functioning as well as the quality of life. Early identification of individuals who may be at risk to fall will lead to intervention strategies that can help to with balance issues. The aim of this study was to correlate between Community Balance and Mobility with a battery of outcome measures commonly used to assess balance in Parkinson’s disease.

Methods

A cross sectional study design; with individuals referred to Outpatient physiotherapy department, diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease, independently mobile and on a stable drug regimen referred by the neurologist; were screened and recruited by convenience sampling. With written informed consent, demographic data gathered and scales such as Berg Balance scale, Community balance & mobility scale, Functional Reach test and Timed up and go test were administered with an ample amount of rest.

Results

The results obtained were documented and analysed using Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Significant correlation between CB&M and BBS (r = 0.795) was found, CB&M and TUG (r = − 0.755), CB&M and FRT (r = 0.772).

Conclusion

CB&M is a useful measure which integrates items that challenge balance in the community context. It has been used to assess high functioning community dwelling individuals and hence may be apt for individuals with early Parkinson’s, since the tasks to be performed in CB&M are challenging and these simulate community level activities where the risk of falls is higher. It may well be a good tool to assess early Parkinson’s; their level of balance, community level activity and without need for sophisticated & expensive equipment.
A novel taxonomy of student-generated video styles
Authors: Arruabarrena Rosa , Sánchez Ana , Domínguez César , Jaime Arturo
Published: November 2021

Video is a medium increasingly used in education. The styles of videos produced for academic purposes have been studied in the literature based mainly on those initially designed by instructors for use in MOOCs. In this work, we define a novel taxonomy of academic video design styles based on the videos produced by students. We have defined 10 different styles after reviewing 105 student-generated videos over 5 years. These types of videos reflect the tastes of students when making a video, which do not necessarily coincide with those of instructors. Based on our classification, a comparative analysis was done between the types of videos developed by instructors and by students, and significant differences were found. The style most commonly used by instructors is similar to the presentation slides while students' videos are based on the integration of videos and images they search for on the Internet.