bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Successful Response to Cyclophosphamide, Vincristine, and Dacarbazine Chemotherapy in a Patient with Metastatic Carotid Body Paraganglioma
Authors: Yamada Hiroki , Fukushima Toshirou , Kobayashi Takashi , Kanda Shintaro , Koizumi Tomonobu , Iwaya Mai
Published: December 2021

Carotid body paraganglioma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor presenting with low-grade histological and clinical features. However, the tumor has the potential to produce distant metastasis, and due to its rarity, little information is available regarding chemotherapy for such metastatic lesions. Here, we report a case of carotid body paraganglioma with development of pulmonary and bone metastases 10 years after radical surgery for the primary lesion in the neck. The lesions showed a good response to cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and dacarbazine chemotherapy. A beneficial therapeutic outcome by chemotherapy is extremely rare in patients with metastatic carotid body paraganglioma.
A Review of Functional Neuroimaging in People with Down Syndrome with and without Dementia
Authors: Deinde Funmi , Kotecha Jay , Lau Lilian Suh Lih , Bhattacharyya Sagnik , Velayudhan Latha
Published: December 2021

Background: Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are at high risk of dementia which is difficult to diagnose in DS. Neuroimaging has been identified as a potential tool to aid diagnosis by detecting changes in brain function. We carried out a review comparing functional neuroimaging in DS individuals with and without dementia. Summary: A literature search was conducted using PubMed to identify relevant studies. In DS subjects with dementia, fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (PET) studies showed glucose hypometabolism particularly in the parietal and/or temporal regions whilst magnetic resonance spectroscopy studies showed increased myoinositol and decreased N-acetylaspartate. Ligand-based PET studies revealed significant Pittsburgh compound B binding in DS subjects over the age of 40, particularly if they had dementia. Key Messages: Neuroimaging may aid the early detection of dementia in DS; however, further longitudinal studies are required.
A Case of Recurrent Ovarian Cancer and Therapy-Related Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treated with Azacitidine
Authors: Ando Kenju , Shimomura Akihiko , Nasu Ryo , Nakanishi Misao , Kawamura Yukino , Hangaishi Akira , Oishi Hajime , Shimizu Chikako
Published: December 2021

Therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome (tMDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (tAML) are lethal complications of chemotherapy. The incidence rates are expected to increase owing to improvements of cancer treatment. Early diagnosis of tMDS/AML is crucial because AML progresses rapidly. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only current treatment to prolong survival; however, patients with tMDS/AML are more likely to be intolerable to HSCT if they have other active solid tumors. An effective treatment for patients with tMDS/AML who are not candidates for HSCT is not established. We present a case of tAML that developed during chemotherapy for treating active ovarian cancer. The patient presented with thrombocytopenia that was initially suggested to be chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia. The patient was not a candidate for HSCT because of active cancer. However, she was able to receive azacitidine because her ovarian cancer responded well to chemotherapy. Pancytopenia is a common symptom of both chemotherapy-induced bone marrow suppression and tMDS/AML; thus, it may be difficult to distinguish between them at the first presentation. Given the prediction that the tMDS/AML incidence will increase as the survival of cancer patients improves, oncologists should be aware of the risks of tMDS/AML in patients with a history of cytotoxic chemotherapy. Although the indications for intensive care of tAML for patients with active solid tumors are poor, some patients might be able to receive cytotoxic treatment for tAML if the active solid tumors remain stable. Further studies focused on tMDS/AML with active solid tumors are needed to develop an effective treatment.
Bioinformatic Analysis Reveals the Distinct Role of 5′UTR-Specific m6A RNA Modification in Mice Developing Cerebral Cortices
Authors: Zhang Long-Bin , Qiu Ting-Ting , Yang Wu-Wei-Jie
Published: December 2021

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) abundantly exists in the cerebral cortex and is emerging as an essential factor in cortical development and function. As the m6A-binding site appears to be dynamically methylated in different RNA regions at the temporal-specific developing stage, it is of value to distinguish the unique character of region- and temporal-specific m6A. Herein, we analyzed the status of temporal-specific m6A within RNA 5′ untranslated region (5′UTR) using m6A-methylated sequencing data and transcriptomic sequencing data from 12.5- to 13-day embryonic cerebral cortices and 14-day postnatal ones. We identified sorts of RNAs that are uniquely m6A-methylated in the 5′UTR and sorted them into specific neurological processes. Compared with 3′UTR-m6A-methylated RNAs, 5′UTR-m6A-methylated RNAs showed unique functions and mechanisms in regulating cortical development, especially through the pathway of mRNA transport and surveillance. Moreover, the 5′UTR-specific m6A was associated with neurological disorders as well. The FoxO signaling pathway was then focused by these pathogenic 5′UTR-m6A-methylated RNAs and explored to be involved in the determination of neurological disorders. Additionally, the 5′UTR-m6A modification patterns and transcriptional patterns play independent but cohesive roles in the developing cortices. Our study emphasizes the importance of 5′UTR-specific m6A in the developing cortex and provides an informative reference for future studies of 5′UTR-specific m6A in normal cortical development and neurological disorders.
Cancer-Predisposition Genetic Analysis in Children with Brain Tumors Treated at a Single Institution in Japan
Authors: Fukushima Hiroko , Suzuki Ryoko , Yamaki Yuni , Hosaka Sho , Inaba Masako , Muroi Ai , Tsurubuchi Takao , Morii Wataru , Noguchi Emiko , Takada Hidetoshi
Published: December 2021

Brain tumors affect one-third of all children with cancer. Approximately 10% of children with cancer carry variants in cancer-predisposition genes. However, germline analyses in large cohorts of Asian children have not been reported. Thirty-eight Japanese patients with pediatric brain tumors were included in this study (19 boys, 19 girls). DNA was extracted from the patients’ peripheral blood, and cancer-associated genes were analyzed using targeted resequencing. Rare variants with allele frequencies <0.1% in the general population and variants suspected to be pathogenic were extracted and analyzed. Pathogenic variants were found in 7 patients (18%): 2 nonsense variants of CHEK2 and FANCI; 2 frameshift deletions in SMARCB1 and PTCH1; and 3 missense variants of TSC1, WRN, and MLH1. The median age at diagnosis was 9.1 years, and three of the 7 patients had a family history of cancer. One patient diagnosed with basal cell nevus syndrome, also called Gorlin syndrome, developed a second neoplasm, and another with an SMARCB1 variant and an atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor developed a thyroid adenomatous nodule. This is the first cancer-related germline analysis with detailed clinical information reported in Japanese children with brain tumors. The prevalence was almost equivalent to that in white children.
Romiplostim for Primary Immune Thrombocytopenia in Routine Clinical Practice: Results from a Multicentre Observational Study in Germany
Authors: Reiser Marcel , Josten Klaus M. , Dietzfelbinger Hermann , Seesaghur Anouchka , Schill Markus , Hippenmeyer Jane , Welslau Manfred
Published: December 2021

Introduction: The effectiveness and safety of romiplostim were evaluated by immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) phase (newly diagnosed/persistent/chronic) at romiplostim initiation. Methods: This is a post hoc analysis of a prospective, German, multicentre, observational study in adults with ITP who received ≥1 dose of romiplostim. Follow-up data were collected for ≤2 years. Outcomes included overall platelet response (≥1 platelet count ≥50 × 109/L at 2–24 weeks after romiplostim initiation) or durable platelet response (≥75% of measurements ≥50 × 109/L at 14–24 weeks) and adverse drug reactions (ADRs), evaluated by ITP phase. Results: Data from 96 patients were analysed (newly diagnosed, n = 18; persistent, n = 25; chronic, n = 53). During the 2- to 24-week follow-up, overall platelet response was achieved in 100% (95% confidence interval: 81.5–100), 100% (86.3–100), and 96.2% (87.0–99.5) of patients with newly diagnosed, persistent, or chronic ITP, respectively, and platelet responses were durable in 88.2% (63.6–98.5), 65.0% (40.8–84.6), and 69.4% (54.6–81.7) of patients. During the 2-year follow-up, ADRs occurred in 24.0–35.8% of patients across phases. Two patients with chronic ITP experienced bone marrow ADRs; no thrombotic ADRs occurred. Conclusion: Romiplostim was effective and well tolerated in patients with newly diagnosed, persistent, or chronic ITP in routine clinical practice.
DOĞRUDAN YABANCI YATIRIMLAR YOLUYLA TEKNOLOJİ TRANSFERİ VE EKONOMİK BÜYÜME İLİŞKİSİ: TÜRKİYE İÇİN NEDENSELLİK ANALİZİ
Authors: ÇEŞTEPE Hamza , ÇAPCI İpek
Published: December 2021

Günümüzde bazı ülkeler kendi teknolojilerini üretme ve ihraç etme konumuna erişmişken, bazıları ise ihtiyaç duydukları teknolojileri teknoloji üretiminde öncü ülkelerden transfer ederek sağlamaktadır. Bu çalışmada, teknoloji transferi ile ekonomik büyüme arasındaki ilişki daha çok ikinci grupta yer alan Türkiye için ampirik olarak analiz edilmiştir. 1989:Q1-2019:Q3 dönemi verilerinin kullanıldığı çalışmada, teknoloji transferinin göstergesi olarak doğrudan yabancı yatırımlar (DYY’ler), ekonomik büyümenin göstergesi olarak ise gayrisafi yurtiçi hasıla (GSYİH) değişkenleri alınmıştır. Değişkenler arasındaki uzun dönemli ilişki Johansen eşbütünleşme testiyle, nedensellik ilişkisi ise Hatemi-J asimetrik nedensellik testi ve Rossi (2005) tarafından önerilen zamana göre nedensellik testiyle araştırılmıştır. Analiz sonuçlarına göre, uzun dönemde değişkenler arasında eşbütünleşme ilişkisinin olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Nedensellik testi sonuçları GSYİH’daki pozitif şoklardan DYY’lerdeki pozitif şoklara, GSYİH’daki negatif şoklardan DYY’lerdeki negatif şoklara ve DYY’lerdeki pozitif şoklardan GSYİH’daki pozitif şoklara nedensellik ilişkisinin varlığını ortaya koymaktadır. Zamana göre nedensellik testi sonuçlarına göre de, DYY’ler ve yüksek teknolojili mal ithalatıyla GSYİH arasında zamana göre değişen nedensellik ilişkisi tespit edilmiştir.
The Integration of 21st-Century Skills in Science: A Case Study of Canada and the USA
Authors: Amadi Chioma Stella
Published: December 2021

This comparative study examines the extent to which the 21st-century skills are integrated into the 4th and 8th-grade public school science curriculum in Canada in relation to that of the United States of America (USA) by analyzing the 4th and 8th grade Common Framework of Science Learning Outcomes of Canada and the 4th and 8th grade Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) of the United States in relation to the 21st-century skills as listed by the Applied Educational System (AES). The results predicted a huge economic decline of the United States in the nearest future in contrast to that of Canada if an intervention is not instituted.
Once Good, Always Good? Testing Nudge’s Spillovers on Pro Environmental Behavior
Authors: Clot Sophie , Della Giusta Marina , Jewell Sarah
Published: December 2021

It is a common assumption to believe that encouraging pro environmental behavior (PEB) in one domain would lead to increased PEB in other domains (best-case scenario) or just be restricted to the initial targeted domain (worst-case scenario). Evidence from a rapidly growing literature on moral licensing suggests that interventions targeting behavioral change could lead to an even worse scenario, with individuals starting to underperform in one domain, as a compensation for their good performance in other domains. We propose to study the dynamic of PEBs when individuals are exposed to a specific nudge (priming) via an original experiment designed to capture actual behavior. We found that priming could increase PEB, but does not thwart moral licensing. Primed individuals end up doing worse than non-primed individual under a moral licensing condition. A more comprehensive view of the mechanisms underlying behavioral change is essential to support sustainable policies.
Urban Social Hauntings: Disappearing Gravestone Murals in Gentrifying Brooklyn
Authors: Okechukwu Amaka
Published: December 2021

This article concerns the disappearance of gravestone (or “rest in peace”) murals in gentrifying Brooklyn, New York. Social hauntings reveal the unresolved violence of Black disposability and dispossession, as it manifests in the urban landscape in periods of urban decline and gentrification; gravestone murals are forms of “wake work” that attend to social haunting, accounting for Black life and death in urban place. This article first considers the wake work of gravestone murals, that they are memorials, archives of collective memory, spaces of worldmaking, and resistance to anti-Black violence. Because gravestone murals illustrate how Black people produce meaning in the urban landscape, they are also forms of Black spatial production. The article then explores the emergence of newer, stylized murals as aesthetic commodities that bring social and economic value to urban space, while commodifying Black life and death. The disappearance of gravestone murals, a visual record of the urban crisis, indicates the transformation of Black urban space in the 21st century.
Canine smooth muscle tumors: A clinicopathological study
Authors: Avallone Giancarlo , Pellegrino Valeria , Muscatello Luisa Vera , Roccabianca Paola , Castellani Gastone , Sala Claudia , Tecilla Marco , Valenti Paola , Sarli Giuseppe
Published: December 2021

Canine smooth muscle tumors (SMTs) commonly develop in the alimentary and female genital tracts and less frequently in soft tissue. The definition of histological criteria of malignancy is less detailed for SMTs in dogs than in humans. This study evaluated the clinicopathologic features of canine SMTs and compared the veterinary and human medical criteria of malignancy. A total of 105 canine SMTs were evaluated histologically and classified according to both veterinary and human criteria. The Ki67 labeling index was assessed in all SMTs. Estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) expression was evaluated for soft tissue SMTs. Follow-up data were available in 25 cases. SMTs were diagnosed in the female genital tract (42%), alimentary tract (22%), and soft tissue (20%). Soft tissue SMTs frequently arose in the perigenital area, pelvic cavity, and retroperitoneum. A subset of soft tissue SMTs expressed ER and/or PR, resembling the gynecologic type of soft tissue SMT in humans. SMTs were less frequently malignant when assessed with human criteria than with veterinary criteria, better reflecting their benign behavior, especially in the genital tract where human criteria tolerate a higher mitotic count for leiomyoma. Decreased differentiation was correlated with increased proliferation, necrosis, and reduced desmin expression. Mitotic count, Ki67 labeling index, and necrosis were correlated with metastases and tumor-related death. Further prognostic studies are warranted to confirm the better performance of the human criteria when assessing SMT malignancy, especially genital cases, to confirm their usefulness in ER/PR-expressing soft tissue SMTs, and to better define the most useful prognostic parameters for canine SMTs.
When teachers Google physical literacy: A cartography of controversies analysis
Authors: Young Lisa , Alfrey Laura , O’Connor Justen
Published: December 2021

How physical literacy (PL) is presented on ‘the web’ (i.e. Google) has implications for how health and/ physical education (H/PE) teachers and coaches engage with and understand the concept, and ultimately how it is made to act in practice. This research sheds light on the type of PL content they are likely to encounter in their search via the web. Utilising Venturini's ‘cartography of controversies’ method, the top 100 Google search results for PL were analysed to observe and describe how PL is presented on the web, by whom and in the name of what. Findings show that PL has been ‘framed’ on the web by a heterogeneous network of actors who present different viewpoints, ideologies and suggested practices for PL within and across the contextual ‘spheres’ of education, sport and health. Further, the findings highlight how Google's algorithms prioritise and privilege particular PL viewpoints and ideologies. Consequently, variations in understanding and practices will be evident between H/PE teachers and coaches who only engage with the first page of Google results (top one to 10 URLs) and those who read more broadly. Rather than relying on Google's algorithms or policymakers’ interpretations of PL that commonly serve the interests of the sport and health ‘spheres’ we suggest that H/PE teachers and coaches need to act as ‘knowledge brokers’ and thus be reflexive and aware of the multiple versions of PL that are presented on the web. This is especially important if they use the web as a form of professional development.
A viscoelastic in-plane damage model for fibrous composite materials
Authors: Quirino Matheus Urzedo , Tita Volnei , Ribeiro Marcelo Leite
Published: December 2021

This work presents a viscoelastic in-plane damage model for fibrous composites. The material behavior is modeled as linear viscoelastic, with brittle failure in the fiber-dominated direction, and progressive degradation of the matrix-dominated properties, when the composite is loaded perpendicularly to the fibers or in in-plane shear. An evaluation procedure has been performed by comparing computational stress-strain curves against tensile tests curves under three different displacement rates. In addition, a calibration of the viscoelastic properties, by means of the response surface methodology, is also presented. The proposed material model has shown reasonable performance up to the material reaching an experimentally-verified modulus transition zone. Besides, the viscoelastic calibration procedure has produced a good agreement with the experimental results, concerning maximum stresses. It was observed that the computational stress-strain curve has deviated from the experimental one for higher stress values, indicating that it is necessary to improve the assessment of the nonlinear phenomena, which occur within the material.
An examination of range effects when evaluating discomfort due to glare in Singaporean buildings
Authors: Kent MG , Jakubiec JA
Published: December 2021

This article discusses ratings of visual discomfort from glare across different buildings located in Singapore. These data were used to determine if range effects influence the vertical illuminance values for the same ratings of visual discomfort when the category rating procedure is used. The effect occurs when maxima and minima vertical illuminance (i.e. the range) vary across buildings. Our analyses showed that with a higher vertical illuminance range in a building, the mean vertical illuminance value for the same criterion of visual discomfort also increased. The results suggest that the effect caused by different ranges of measured vertical illuminance present across the buildings biased the ratings of visual discomfort. Although these effects may be unavoidable in some buildings that have vastly different levels of light, the data suggest that the overall range of vertical illuminance must be carefully evaluated when predicting visual discomfort. Matching these conditions may enable vertical illuminance to provide more reliable evaluations of discomfort due to glare.
Sonographic Discovery of Segmental Testicular Infarction
Authors: Pham Kelly
Published: December 2021

The prevalence of segmental testicular infarction is extremely uncommon and very few cases have been reported in literature. Clinical and sonographic presentation of this condition can mimic testicular neoplasms or testicular torsion. Therefore, accurate diagnosis of segmental testicular infarction is imperative in the treatment process. This case study presents the sonographic diagnosis of testicular infarction in a 49-year-old man who reported mild testicular tenderness. A conservative treatment approach was used, saving the patient unnecessary surgical intervention.
Safety and antibody response to two-dose SARS-CoV-2 messenger RNA vaccination in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Greenberg Ross S. , Ruddy Jake A. , Boyarsky Brian J. , Werbel William A. , Garonzik-Wang Jacqueline M. , Segev Dorry L. , Imus Philip H.
Published: December 2021

Background

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) were excluded from the original SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine trials, which may influence vaccine hesitancy in this population. We prospectively characterized the safety and immunogenicity of two-dose SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination in 44 patients with MM, who underwent vaccination from 12/17/2020 to 3/18/2021.

Results

Rates adverse reactions were low and consistent with those documented in vaccine trials. Among those on MM therapy, 93% developed detectable anti-receptor binding domain (RBD) antibodies after dose 2, while 94% of patients not on MM therapy seroconverted.

Conclusions

Two-dose SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination is mildly reactogenic and leads to high rates of seroconversion in patients with MM. These findings can provide reassurance to MM patients who are hesitant to receive SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines.
Patients with unilateral retinal vein occlusion show reduced radial peripapillary capillary density in their fellow eyes
Authors: Fan Lingling , Zhu Yazhou , Sun Xiaomei , Yu Jinguo , Yan Hua
Published: December 2021

Background

To evaluate the radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) density in the fellow eyes of unilateral retinal vein occlusion (RVO) patients using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), and further analyze the correlation between RPC density and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness.

Methods

Seventy-eight unilateral RVO patients and 70 normal controls were included in the study. OCTA was conducted with the 4.5 × 4.5-mm scan pattern centered on the optic nerve head, and the RPC density and peripapillary RNFL thickness were quantified.

Results

The peripapillary RNFL in the RVO fellow eyes was significantly thinner than in normal controls in the average, inferior-hemisphere, inferior quadrant, and temporal quadrant (P < 0.05, respectively). The RPC density in the fellow eyes was also significantly lower in the average, inferior-hemisphere, nasal quadrant, and temporal quadrant ((P < 0.05, respectively). There were no significant differences in RNFL thickness and RPC density between branch RVO fellow eyes and central RVO fellow eyes. Pearson’s correlation analysis showed significant positive correlations between the RPC density and RNFL thickness in all measurements (P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

The regional RPC density was reduced in the RVO fellow eyes, which might contribute to peripapillary RNFL thinning in the corresponding region, suggesting the influence of systemic risk factors on RVO. OCTA may offer new insights into the pathophysiology of RVO.
Prediction of effective Lens position using anterior segment optical coherence tomography in Chinese subjects with angle closure
Authors: Wu Yuzhou , Zhang Shunhua , Zhong Yong , Bian Ailing , Zhang Yang , Wang Zaowen
Published: December 2021

Purpose

To assess the accuracy of biometric parameters measured by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and partial coherence interferometry (PCI) in prediction of effective lens position (ELP) compared with previous formulas in PACG patients.

Methods

121 PACG eyes were randomly divided into training set (85 eyes) and validation set (36 eyes) with same procedure including AS-OCT, PCI, phacoemulsification and IOL implantation surgery. Preoperative anterior chamber depth (pre-ACD), scleral spur depth (SSD), scleral spur width (SSW), lens vault (LV) and cornea thickness (CT) were measured from AS-OCT image. Axial length (AL) and corneal power (K) were measured by PCI. All the 7 parameters were analyzed by multiple linear regression in training set and a statistic regression formula was developed. In validation set, one-way ANOVA was applied to compare the new regression formula with Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraff theoretic (SRK/T), Holladay 1, Haigis, and a regression formula developed in previous study.

Results

The coefficient of determination (R2) of different parameter combinations are 0.19 (pre-ACD, AL), 0.25 (AL, K) and 0.49 (SSD, AL, SSW) in training set. In validation set, the correlation between predicted and measured ELP are: new formula (R2 = 0.50, P = 0.9947) Holladay 1 (R2 = 0.12, P < 0.0001), SRK/T (R2 = 0.11, P < 0.0001) and Haigis (R2 = 0.06, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Among 7 tested parameters, pre-ACD contribute little in ELP prediction. Formula consist of SSD, AL and SSW showed better accuracy than other formulas tested.
Gliquidone improves retinal injury to relieve diabetic retinopathy via regulation of SIRT1/Notch1 pathway
Authors: Yu Mengdan , Zhang Lijun , Sun Shasha , Zhang Zhenhua
Published: December 2021

Background

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common and potentially devastating microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). The main features of DR are inflammation and oxidative damage. Gliquidone (GLI) is confirmed to be a hypoglycemic drug by oral administration. The current study is aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of GLI on the pathogenesis of DR.

Methods

High glucose (HG)-induced human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) were used to explore the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects of GLI on DR in vitro. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DM rats were used to investigate the effects of GLI on retinal structures, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The levels of SIRT1/Notch1 pathway-related proteins were determined by western blotting.

Results

GLI treatment promoted the viability and inhibited the apoptosis of HG-induced HRECs. Meanwhile, the levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, tumour necrosis factor alpha and reactive oxygen species were suppressed, while both catalase and superoxide dismutase were elevated after GLI treatment in HG-induced HRECs. Furthermore, we found that Silencing information regulator 2 related enzyme 1 (SIRT1) silencing reversed the inhibiting effects of GLI on the levels of protein Notch1 and effector genes Hes1 and Hey2. Similar anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects of GLI in STZ-induced DM rats were observed. Additionally, GLI administration also repressed vascular hyperpermeability in vivo.

Conclusion

GLI may be an effective agent to improve DR through repression of inflammation and oxidative stress via SIRT1/Notch1 pathway.
Differentiation between acute macular neuroretinopathy and paracentral acute middle maculopathy in elderly persons: two case reports
Authors: Zhang Qin , Qin Xiuhong , Xu Ling
Published: December 2021

Background

We report one case of rare acute macular neuroretinopathy (AMN) in an elderly patient with hypertension and one case of common paracentral acute middle maculopathy (PAMM) in a patient with diabetes mellitus to illustrate the difference between the two diseases.

Case presentation

This report describes two cases, one involving AMN and the other PAMM. The first patient was a 70-year-old man complaining of blurred vision for 3 days. He was examined with fundus photography, optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT); a diagnosis of AMN was established. The second patient was a 50-year-old woman who complained of decreased vision during the past month. She had had diabetes mellitus for 6 years. From the ophthalmic imaging examination, the patient was diagnosed with PAMM and non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). Both patients were treated with drugs for improving microcirculation and neurotrophic drugs; however, there was no significant improvement in visual acuity.

Conclusions

AMN is more common in young patients and is rarely observed in elderly patients with systemic diseases. The OCTA examination has an auxiliary diagnostic value for deep retinal capillary network ischaemia. Meanwhile, OCT examination has important imaging value in differentiating AMN from PAMM and can help avoid missed diagnoses.
Patients with mild cognitive impairment diagnosed at dementia clinic display decreased maximum occlusal force: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Suzuki Hiroyuki , Furuya Junichi , Hidaka Rena , Miyajima Saki , Matsubara Chiaki , Ohwada Gaku , Asada Takashi , Akazawa Chihiro , Sato Yuji , Tohara Haruka , Minakuchi Shunsuke
Published: December 2021

Background

Previous research indicates that patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are more likely to have poor oral health and impairments in oral functions, which may be due to few remaining teeth and impaired tongue and lip motor function. However, the oral health of those patients following comprehensive cognitive assessment by a dementia specialist has not been sufficiently investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify the oral function of patients with MCI and the association between oral health and lower cognitive function.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 96 participants (men: 35; women: 61; mean age: 73.3 ± 8.5 years) who visited a dementia clinic between December 2017 and January 2020. Participants’ cognitive function was assessed by a dementia specialist using neuropsychological and hematological tests and neuroimaging immediately after enrollment. The participants were divided into the healthy and MCI groups according to comprehensive cognitive assessment. Participants’ age, sex, body mass index, primary disease, education level, drinking habits, smoking habits, living environment, employment status, and exercise habits were evaluated. Moreover, oral outcomes, including the number of existing teeth, number of functional teeth (natural and prosthetic teeth which were occluded with antagonists), denture use, oral dryness, tongue and lip motor function, tongue pressure, occlusal force, masticatory ability, and swallowing ability were recorded. The Mann–Whitney U test, χ2, and Fisher’s exact tests were used for between-group comparisons. Furthermore, logistic regression analysis using MCI diagnosis as the target variable was performed.

Results

A comprehensive evaluation of the cognitive function of the study participants by the dementia specialist revealed that 48 participants (mean age: 69.8 ± 8.8 years) were healthy and 48 (mean age: 76.9 ± 6.7 years) had MCI. MCI participants were significantly older (p < 0.001) and had significantly fewer existing teeth (p = 0.031) and lower maximum occlusal force (p = 0.019) than healthy participants. Age (odds ratio: 1.126, p = 0.002) and maximum occlusal force (odds ratio: 0.978, p = 0.048) were significantly associated with lower cognitive function.

Conclusions

Patients with MCI had poorer oral health than healthy individuals. Decreased maximum occlusal force was independently associated with lower cognitive function, even when adjusted for age and sex.
Effect of educational intervention based on health belief model on accident prevention behaviours in mothers of children under 5-years
Authors: Moridi Elnaz , Fazelniya Zahra , Yari Asiyeh , Gholami Tahereh , Hasirini Pooyan Afzali , Khani Jeihooni Ali
Published: December 2021

Background

As the public health problems, accidents are the most important causes of child mortality. The present study aimed to determine the effect of educational intervention based on health belief model on accident prevention behaviors in mothers of children under 5-years of age.

Methods

This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 200 mothers in Fasa city who were purposefully selected and randomly divided into two groups of intervention and control. Data collection tools were demographic characteristics and health belief model questionnaire. Questionnaires were completed twice before and 3 months after the intervention. After the pre-test, the educational intervention was performed through 6 sessions of 30–35 min in a WhatsApp group. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22 through Chi-square test, independent t-test and paired t-test (p = 0.05).

Results

The mean age of mothers in the experimental and control groups was 30.14 ± 4.35 and 31.08 ± 4.31 years. Mean score of awareness, perceived sensitivity, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived self-efficacy, cues to action, and accident prevention behaviors significantly increased 3 months after the intervention.

Conclusion

This study showed the effectiveness of educational intervention based on health belief model on accident prevention behaviors in mothers of children under 5-years of age.
Cost estimates of COVID-19 clinical management in Myanmar
Authors: Thant Phyu Win , Htet Khin Thu , Win Wit Ye , Htwe Ye Min , Htoo Thant Sin
Published: December 2021

Objective

This study aims to estimate the cost of clinical management of COVID-19 infected patients based on their severity by exploring the resources used in health care provision in Myanmar.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective cost analysis of COVID-19 patients was performed using the micro-costing approach from the perspective of the health system. It covered two cost components, namely direct and indirect cost of treating a patient. Input data and their quantities were obtained from COVID-19 Standard Treatment Guidelines of Ministry of Health and Sports, and administrative and financial records of resource utilization of three designated health facilities in Yangon Region. Valuation of these resources was based on the price list from the Procurement Section of the Ministry.

Results

This study estimated the unit cost of clinical management of COVID-19 infected patients with no symptom to be 953,552 MMK(717 USD), with mild-moderate symptoms to be 1,155,222 MMK(869 USD) and with severe-critically ill conditions to be 5,705,052 MMK(4290 USD). Average cost for a patient par day was 86,687 MMK(65 USD) for asymptomatic patients, 105,020 MMK(79 USD) for mild-moderate patients and 283,252 MMK(214 USD) for severe-critically ill patients. Since the first case detected till December 31, 2020, COVID-19 clinical management cost was accounted for 139 Billion MMK (104 Million USD) for total 124,630 confirmed cases.

Conclusions

COVID-19 pandemic has caused health systems to incur the significant health care expenses. Timely implementation of the sustainable, affordable and efficient policy for COVID-19 responses is of utmost important for every nation especially in the face of a pandemic. This study provides the fundamental inputs for strategic planning, for future economic evaluations of different policy interventions, and policy recommendations for health systems to remain resilient during and after the COVID-19 pandemic in Myanmar.
Correction to: Diverse community leaders’ perspectives about quality primary healthcare and healthcare measurement: qualitative community-based participatory research
Authors: Culhane-Pera Kathleen A. , Pergament Shannon L. , Kasouaher Maiyia Y. , Pattock Andrew M. , Dhore Naima , Kaigama Cindy N. , Alison Marcela , Scandrett Michael , Thao Mai See , Satin David J.
Published: December 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
All we need to know about internal thoracic artery harvesting and preparation for myocardial revascularization: a systematic review
Authors: Masroor Matiullah , Zhou Kang , Chen Chunyang , Fu Xianming , Zhao Yuan
Published: December 2021

Internal thoracic arteries (ITAs) are the gold standard conduits for coronary revascularization because of their long-term patency and anti-atherosclerotic properties. Harvesting and preparation of ITAs for revascularization is a technically demanding procedure with multiple challenges. Over the last few decades, various methods and techniques for ITAs harvesting have been introduced by different surgeons and applied in clinical practice with different results. Harvesting of ITAs in pedicled or skeletonized fashion, with electrocautery or harmonic scalpel, with open or intact pleura, with clipping the end or keeping it perfused; papaverine delivery with intraluminal injection, perivascular injection, injecting into endothoracic fascia, and papaverine topical spray are the different techniques introduced by the number of researchers. At the same time, access to the ITAs for harvesting has also been studied. Access and harvesting through median sternotomy, mini anterolateral thoracotomy, thoracoscopic, and robotic-assisted harvesting of ITAs are the different techniques used in clinical practice. However, the single standard method for harvesting and preparation of ITAs has yet to be determined. In this review article, we aimed to discuss and analyze all these techniques of harvesting and preparing ITAs with the help of literature to find the best way for ITAs harvesting and preparation for myocardial revascularization.
Changes in chromatin accessibility landscape and histone H3 core acetylation during valproic acid-induced differentiation of embryonic stem cells
Authors: Baumann Claudia , Zhang Xiangyu , Zhu Ling , Fan Yuhong , De La Fuente Rabindranath
Published: December 2021

Directed differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provides powerful models to dissect the molecular mechanisms leading to the formation of specific cell lineages. Treatment with histone deacetylase inhibitors can significantly enhance the efficiency of directed differentiation. However, the mechanisms are not well understood. Here, we use CUT&RUN in combination with ATAC-seq to determine changes in both histone modifications and genome-wide chromatin accessibility following valproic acid (VPA) exposure. VPA induced a significant increase in global histone H3 acetylation (H3K56ac), a core histone modification affecting nucleosome stability, as well as enrichment at loci associated with cytoskeletal organization and cellular morphogenesis. In addition, VPA altered the levels of linker histone H1 subtypes and the total histone H1/nucleosome ratio indicative of initial differentiation events. Notably, ATAC-seq analysis revealed changes in chromatin accessibility of genes involved in regulation of CDK serine/threonine kinase activity and DNA duplex unwinding. Importantly, changes in chromatin accessibility were evident at several key genomic loci, such as the pluripotency factor Lefty, cardiac muscle troponin Tnnt2, and the homeodomain factor Hopx, which play critical roles in cardiomyocyte differentiation. Massive parallel transcription factor (TF) footprinting also indicates an increased occupancy of TFs involved in differentiation toward mesoderm and endoderm lineages and a loss of footprints of POU5F1/SOX2 pluripotency factors following VPA treatment. Our results provide the first genome-wide analysis of the chromatin landscape following VPA-induced differentiation in mESCs and provide new mechanistic insight into the intricate molecular processes that govern departure from pluripotency and early lineage commitment.
Promoting outdoor recreation among older adults in Sweden – a theoretical and empirical foundation for the development of an intervention
Authors: Zingmark Magnus , Ankre Rosemarie , Wall-Reinius Sandra
Published: December 2021

Background

Disengagement from outdoor recreation may diminish the positive benefits on health and well-being in old age. The purpose of this study is to present a contextual, theoretical, and empirical rationale for an intervention, aiming to promote continued engagement in outdoor recreation for older adults in a Swedish context.

Methods

The paper includes a contextualization of outdoor recreation in Sweden, a presentation of evidence on health benefits related to engagement in outdoor recreation, together with theoretical frameworks that may guide future intervention designs. To add empirical knowledge, a mixed methods approach was applied, including an empirical data collection based on a quantitative survey (n = 266) and individual semi-structured interviews with older adults (n = 12). Survey data were presented with descriptive statistics. Associations between disengagement from previously performed activities and age and gender was analyzed with Chi2 tests. Transcripts and handwritten notes from the interviews were analyzed qualitatively to identify key themes, as well as patterns and disparities among respondents.

Results

Outdoor recreation was rated as important/very important by 90% of respondents of the survey. The interviews highlighted that engagement in outdoor recreation aided respondents to keep fit but had also relevance in terms of identity, experiences, and daily routines. Outdoor recreation close to the place of residence was most common and walking was the most frequently reported activity. While 80% considered their health to be good/very good, disability and long-term diseases were common and during the previous year, more than half of all respondents had disengaged from activities previously performed. Reasons for disengagement were mainly related to health decline or that activities were too demanding but also due to social loss. The interviews indicated that continued engagement was important but challenging, and that disengagement could be considered as a loss or accepted due to changing circumstances.

Conclusions

In the design of an intervention aiming to promote engagement in outdoor recreation for older adults, the following features are proposed to be considered: person-centeredness, promoting functioning, addressing self-ageism, providing environmental support, promoting subjective mobility needs and adaptation to find new ways to engage in outdoor recreation.
Brainatomy—Demystifying the Temporal Bone, Rule of 3-2-1
Authors: Er Kadir , Patsalis Dimitrios , Katsigiannis Sotirios , Schmieder Kirsten , Baskaya Mustafa K. , Gierthmuehlen Mortimer
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND:

The temporal bone is difficult to comprehend in three-dimensional (3D) space. We provide a novel 3D mental model of the temporal bone which helps clinicians and surgeons dealing with it in teaching, diagnosing, conservative managements, and preoperative and intraoperative orientation. This study is part of the scientific project Brainatomy.

OBJECTIVE:

To analyze and simplify the temporal bone anatomy to enhance its comprehension and long-term retention.

METHODS:

The study was conducted at the Neurosurgical Department of the University Hospital of Bochum, Germany. We retrospectively analyzed data sets of 221 adult patients who underwent computed tomography (CT) of the skull (n = 167) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain (n = 54). A total of 142 patients with their respective imaging scans remained in our pool of interest after excluding 79 scans. The raw digital imaging and communications in medicine scans were transformed into 3D objects. Spatial analyses were then conducted, and all collected data were used to create our own 3D model of the temporal bone.

RESULTS:

We define the temporal bone as a prism-shaped model and divide it into 6 compartments: apex, neurovascular, mastoid, blank, tympanic, and temporomandibular compartments. The division into compartments has been achieved with the “Rule of 3-2-1.” Finally, the 3D model has been used to record a video (Video), using a novel and “easy-to-follow” didactic approach.

CONCLUSION:

This simplified 3D model along with the corresponding video (Video) potentially enhances the efficiency of studying temporal none anatomy with a novel “easy-to-follow” approach.
retorno esperado dos COEs
Authors: Bitu Otavio , Chague Fernando , Giovannetti Bruno , Hamdan Tomaz
Published: December 2021

Os certificados de operações estruturadas, COEs, são produtos financeiros complexos que vêm sendo distribuídos em grande escala para investidores de varejo no Brasil. No entanto, informações sobre o retorno esperado dos COEs não são fornecidas aos seus compradores. Neste artigo, calculamos o retorno esperado para dois grupos de COEs. O primeiro grupo contém os 50 COEs de maior volume dentre os que foram vendidos para mais de 100 indivíduos entre 2016 e 2019. O segundo grupo contém 234 COEs distribuídos por uma grande corretora entre os anos de 2019 e 2020. Encontramos que 252 dos 284 COEs foram vendidos aos investidores de varejo com retorno esperado abaixo da taxa livre de risco.
American option pricing with machine learning: An extension of the Longstaff-Schwartz method
Authors: Lin Jingying , Almeida Caio
Published: December 2021

Pricing American options accurately is of great theoretical and practical importance. We propose using machine learning methods, including support vector regression and classification and regression trees. These more advanced techniques extend the traditional Longstaff-Schwartz approach, replacing the OLS regression step in the Monte Carlo simulation. We apply our approach to both simulated data and market data from the S&P 500 Index option market in 2019. Our results suggest that support vector regression can be an alternative to the existing OLS-based pricing method, requiring fewer simulations and reducing the vulnerability to misspecification of basis functions.
Efficiency and productivity of the Brazilian banks: A new approach based on two-stage network DEA
Authors: Valerio Victor Eduardo de Mello , Pamplona Edson de Oliveira , Fonseca Marcelo Nunes , Junior Paulo Rotela , Rocha Luiz Célio Souza , Peruchi Rogério Santana
Published: December 2021

This article creates a conceptual model, called a network system, to represent the Brazilian banking production system, based on its internal operational processes. The first, called the intermediation process, measures a bank's efficiency in extending loans from its available resources. The second, called the revenue process, measures a bank's efficiency in earning profit, mainly from loans granted. We adopt a two-stage DEA model. In the first stage, a relational network DEA model measures both the network system efficiency scores and internal processes. This technique, associated with the Malmquist Index, assesses performance changes over time. In the second stage, these efficiency scores are considered dependent variables, such that Tobit models can determine how the Brazilian credit market's characteristics can explain the network system and internal processes' efficiency. Results show not only a growing trend toward greater efficiency in the revenue process, but also an increase in productivity accompanied by a decline in the intermediation process technology. Given the high banking spreads in Brazil, these results indicate deterioration in the quality of the credit portfolio and the prospect of future insolvency. We discuss implications of this scenario for domestic banks and collateral policy.
Dividendos e volatilidades: Spillover e causalidade em segunda ordem, cambial e financeira
Authors: Maranhão André Nunes , Moreira Guilherme Costa Chadud
Published: December 2021

Com a utilização de dados diários do retorno das ações, da cotação do Dólar e do índice Ibovespa, durante o período de 2010 até 2020, este estudo apresenta os resultados dos transbordamentos de volatilidades no mercado de ações do Brasil, com a utilização de correlações condicionais. A construção de retornos representativos pela Análise de Componentes Principais, tradicional e robusto se mostraram mais adequadas em relação à Análise de Componentes Principais Dinâmico. Para a estimação dos modelos, a utilização do modelo GARCH Multivarido Diagonal BEKK também se mostrou mais ajustado em comparação ao modelo GARCH Multivariado BEKK. A presença do efeito spillover e a direção em que ocorre o transbordamento de volatilidade foram avaliadas a partir da causalidade de Granger de segunda ordem, com teste CN, e indicaram a presença do efeito lead-lag.