bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 9784: Association of Physical Activity with Bioactive Lipids, BMI, and Risk of Future Cardiovascular Events - Mediation Analysis from the Vitamin D and Omega-3 Trial (Vital) and Jupiter Studies
Authors: Hoshi Rosangela , Liu Yanyan , Guo Yanjun , Tiwari Saumya , Gibson Heike , Andres Allen M , Watrous Jeramie , Cook Nancy R , Copeland Trisha , Costenbader Karen , Okereke Olivia , Ridker Paul M , Manson Joann , Lee I-min M , Cheng Susan , Jain Mohit , Demler Olga , Mora Samia
Published: April 2022

Introduction:
To better understand the cardioprotective mechanisms of regular physical activity (PA), we examined its association with plasma bioactive lipids (BAL) and prospective cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and evaluated the extent to which BMI might mediate this association.

Hypothesis: 1)
Higher PA associates with a bioactive lipid profile related to lower CVD risk;
2)
BMI mediates the PA-BAL and BAL-CVD associations.

Methods:
Using linear models (adjusted for age, sex, race, smoking, LDL, and total cholesterol), self-reported PA was examined with BAL assayed by an untargeted metabolomics platform in VITAL (N=1032) with validation in JUPITER (N=589). After performing mediation analysis through BMI (same adjustments), we evaluated both BMI-mediated and non-mediated PA-BAL associations with incident CVD using similarly adjusted conditional logistic regression in two nested CVD case-control studies: VITAL-CVD (770 pairs, followed by mediation analysis) and JUPITER-CVD (415 case-control pairs - validation)

Results:
We detected 237 significant PA-BAL associations in VITAL with replication in JUPITER (FDR<.1). Mediation analysis revealed 146 BMI-mediated associations (indirect effect p<.05), of which 53 showed a relationship with incident CVD in VITAL-CVD. Of those, 22 significant CVD-BAL associations were found in JUPITER-CVD (20 from 49 BMI-mediated and 2 from 4 non-BMI-mediated associations in VITAL-CVD). No relationship with CVD was found from the set of PA-BAL associations not mediated by BMI (indirect effect p≥.05). Notably, BALs related to decreased risk of CVD were positively associated with PA and
vice-versa
.

Conclusion:
We identified a signature of 22 PA-related BAL, which were also associated with incident CVD in two independent case-control studies. Although BMI-mediated associations were predominant, non-mediated effects were also detected, implying that more than one pathway may play a role in the PA-CVD relationship.
Abstract 9792: Improvements in Disease-Specific and Generic Quality of Life After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials
Authors: Masterson Creber Ruth M , Dimagli Arnaldo , Spadaccio Cristiano , Myers Annie , Moscarelli Marco , Demetres Michelle , Fremes Stephen E , Gaudino Mario F
Published: April 2022

Background:
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the short and long-term effects of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) on disease-specific and generic quality of life (QOL) and a quantitative comparison from before surgery to up to five years after surgery across contemporary randomized clinical trials.

Methods:
We searched four databases from 2010-2020 to identify all randomized clinical trials that included the measurement of QOL in patients undergoing CABG. The QOL assessments included the primary outcome, Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ), and secondary outcomes included Short Form Health Surveys (SF-36 Physical Component (PC) and Mental Component (MC)) and EQ-5D. A random-effects model with an inverse variance method to pool the means and the weighted mean differences was used. We used meta-regression to assess the effects of covariates (sex, age, diabetes, and trial publication date) on changes in QOL over time.

Results:
A total of 2,533 studies were screened and 17 full-text studies were included in the meta-analysis. There were significantly higher scores at 1-year postoperatively for the SAQ-AF, SAQ-QOL, SF-36 PC, and EQ-5D (Figure). The weighted mean differences from before surgery to the 1-year after was 24 (95% CI: 21.6-26.4) for the SAQ AF; 31 (95% CI: 27.5-34.6) for the SAQ QOL; 9.8 (95% CI: 7.1-12.8) for the SF-36 PC; and 0.1 (95% CI: 0.03-0.2) for the EQ-5D. The SF-36 MC did not improve significantly. In the meta-regression, mean age was associated with higher SAQ AF scores at five years and SAQ QOL scores at one year. There was no evidence of publication bias or small study effect.

Conclusions:
CABG is associated with short and long-term improvements for both disease-specific QOL and generic QOL, with the largest improvement in angina frequency from before surgery to 1-year.
Abstract 9796: Atypical Right Atrial Flutter with Double Loop Reentry Involving the Cavotricuspid Isthmus and Superior Vena Cava with Successful Ablation
Authors: Khetarpal Banveet K , Minaskeian Nareg , Javaid Awad , Srivathsan Komandoor S
Published: April 2022

Introduction:
Atrial flutter (AFL) with figure-of-eight reentry (FOER) is effectively terminated by catheter ablation (CA) of the shared isthmus.

Case:
A 50-year-old man with prior mitral valve (MV) repair presented to our hospital with palpitations for 9 months refractory to metoprolol. ECG showed coarse atrial fibrillation at 61 bpm. Echocardiography showed left ventricular LVEF of 45%. Electrophysiology study revealed AFL (cycle length, TCL 290 msec) with a concentric activation pattern on the coronary sinus (CS) catheter, and a chevron pattern on the Halo catheter placed against the lateral tricuspid annulus (TA). Entrainment map revealed a near equal post-pacing interval and TCL in proximal CS, low lateral right atrium (RA), and CTI. Incomplete line of block was noted in the anterior wall of RA near the superior vena cava (SVC), likely from prior atriotomy scar. Double loop reentry (DLR) was demonstrated with one wavefront (WV) traveling counterclockwise around the TA using the CTI, and the other WV traveling posteriorly around the SVC (Figure). After CTI ablation, TCL changed from 290 msec to 330 msec suggesting blocked CTI. Now, the WV was a single loop around the SVC, confirmed by repeat activation mapping. Linear ablation from anterior TA to the anterior aspect of the SVC terminated the AFL. Differential pacing from either side of the anterior line and the CTI demonstrated a conduction time of > 200 msec and 150 msec in either direction, respectively. Decremental atrial pacing was unable to induce any arrhythmias.

Discussion:
FOER in this case is suggested by fusion of WVs in the lateral RA. The 2 circuits each had their own conduction gap, in the CTI and anterior RA wall near the SVC, respectively. DLR was proven by entrainment as well as activation mapping. The faster CTI-dependent AFL was entraining the upper loop reentry circuit.

Conclusion:
Atypical right AFL with DLR mimicking FOER was successfully terminated by CA of CTI and anterior line of ablation from TA to SVC.
Abstract 9797: Efficacy and Safety of Bempedoic Acid in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Shapiro Michael D , Taub Pam R , Louie Michael J , Lei Lei , Ballantyne Christie M
Published: April 2022

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events. Bempedoic acid (BA) is an ATP citrate lyase inhibitor that lowers LDL-C in patients with hypercholesterolemia. We investigated the lipid-lowering efficacy, safety, and effect of BA on glycemic parameters and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) according to baseline metabolic status using pooled data (n=3623) from 4 phase 3, randomized, double-blind studies in which patients were randomized 2:1 to BA or placebo (PBO) for 12-52 weeks. Patients with diabetes mellitus (n=1114) were excluded from the analyses. The remaining patients were categorized as having MetS (n=936; defined using modified IAS guidelines with BMI as a proxy for waist circumference) or nonMetS (n=1573). Assessments included absolute or % change from baseline to week 12 in LDL-C, other lipid parameters, hemoglobin A
1c
(HbA
1c
), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and hsCRP; and treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). Background statin intensity was similar between groups (Table). BA significantly lowered LDL-C at week 12 vs PBO, to a greater extent in patients with MetS than nonMetS (PBO-corrected % change from baseline of –22.3 MetS; –18.4 nonMetS; interaction
P
=.0472). BA also significantly lowered total cholesterol, non-HDL-C, and apo B % change at week 12 vs PBO to a similar extent in both subgroups. In patients with MetS, absolute reductions in HbA
1c
and FPG were significantly greater with BA vs PBO; changes in HbA
1C
and FPG were not significantly different for BA vs PBO in the nonMetS group (interaction
P
=.0003 and .0017, respectively). hsCRP % change from baseline was substantially lowered with BA vs PBO in both groups (insignificant interaction based on log of hsCRP absolute change). The incidence of TEAEs was comparable in both subgroups. Overall, BA demonstrated comparable safety in both metabolic subgroups and greater lowering of LDL-C, HbA
1c
, and FPG levels in patients with MetS vs nonMetS.
Cardiovascular Risk Assessment Using Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Event Adjudication and Hematologic Predictors
Authors: Truslow James G. , Goto Shinichi , Homilius Max , Mow Christopher , Higgins John M. , MacRae Calum A. , Deo Rahul C.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Researchers routinely evaluate novel biomarkers for incorporation into clinical risk models, weighing tradeoffs between cost, availability, and ease of deployment. For risk assessment in population health initiatives, ideal inputs would be those already available for most patients. We hypothesized that common hematologic markers (eg, hematocrit), available in an outpatient complete blood count without differential, would be useful to develop risk models for cardiovascular events.

Methods:

We developed Cox proportional hazards models for predicting heart attack, ischemic stroke, heart failure hospitalization, revascularization, and all-cause mortality. For predictors, we used 10 hematologic indices (eg, hematocrit) from routine laboratory measurements, collected March 2016 to May 2017 along with demographic data and diagnostic codes. As outcomes, we used neural network-based automated event adjudication of 1 028 294 discharge summaries. We trained models on 23 238 patients from one hospital in Boston and evaluated them on 29 671 patients from a second one. We assessed calibration using Brier score and discrimination using Harrell’s concordance index. In addition, to determine the utility of high-dimensional interactions, we compared our proportional hazards models to random survival forest models.

Results:

Event rates in our cohort ranged from 0.0067 to 0.075 per person-year. Models using only hematology indices had concordance index ranging from 0.60 to 0.80 on an external validation set and showed the best discrimination when predicting heart failure (0.80 [95% CI, 0.79–0.82]) and all-cause mortality (0.78 [0.77–0.80]). Compared with models trained only on demographic data and diagnostic codes, models that also used hematology indices had better discrimination and calibration. The concordance index of the resulting models ranged from 0.75 to 0.85 and the improvement in concordance index ranged up to 0.072. Random survival forests had minimal improvement over proportional hazards models.

Conclusions:

We conclude that low-cost, ubiquitous inputs, if biologically informative, can provide population-level readouts of risk.
Rhomeocalpsua torosa gen. et sp. nov., a unique lineage of Endomychidae from mid‑Cretaceous Burmese amber (Coleoptera: Coccinelloidea)
Authors: LI YAN-DA , TOMASZEWSKA WIOLETTA , HUANG DI-YING , CAI CHEN-YANG
Published: April 2022

A new fossil genus and species of the family Endomychidae, Rhomeocalpsua torosa Li, Tomaszewska & Cai, gen. et sp. nov., is described and illustrated from the mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. The new genus is characterised by the relatively elongate body, antennae composed of nine antennomeres with unique club morphology, unmodified pronotum, mesocoxal cavities broadly closed laterally, femora with deep and long grooves, and 3-3-3 tarsi. Detailed morphological comparisons between the Cretaceous fossils and extant relatives suggest that its unique character combination does not fit into any existing subfamilies of Endomychidae, Mycetaeidae, Eupsilobiidae or Anamorphidae.
New dictyopteran fossils from the Pennsylvanian of West Beijing, China
Authors: HUANG DI-YING , WEI GUO , WEI TAO , WU YI , WANG XIANG-DONG , LI XIN-RAN
Published: April 2022

Carboniferous insects from China are rare. Here we report a new fossiliferous locality at the Yexi Section, western Beijing, from where Pennsylvanian insects have been discovered. These insect fossils collected from the black shales of the Benxi Formation (middle–late Moscovian to early Kasimovian) are associated with rich plant remains. The fossils are represented mainly by dictyopteran tegmina that cannot be further identified. The discovery is helpful for our understanding of the diversity and preservation of Carboniferous insects in western Beijing and also the Benxi Formation of North China.
Descriptions of Philodinavus koreanus n. sp. and two new species of Philodina (Rotifera, Bdelloidea) from Korea
Authors: SONG MIN OK , LEE CHANG-HO
Published: April 2022

The bdelloid rotifers collected from terrestrial habitats such as leaf litter, mosses and tree barks were studied and three new species were identified: Philodina haejooni n. sp., P. hongcheonensis n. sp. and Philodinavus koreanus n. sp. Philodina haejooni n. sp. is easily distinguished from its congeners by the leaf margin-shaped longitudinal ridges on trunk. The most significant diagnostic characteristic of Philodina hongcheonensis n. sp. is the four dorsal hemispherical processes on anal pseudosegment. Philodinavus koreanus n. sp. is the thirdly described species for the genus. The detailed morphologies of ciliated buccal fields, cheeks and spurs make Philodinavus koreanus n. sp. distinguishable from its two congeners. Here these three new species are described and illustrated. The partial sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene (mtCOX1) for three new species are presented as well.
Checklist of Moroccan aquatic beetles (Coleoptera: Hydraenidae Mulsant, 1844). New records and updates
Authors: BENAMAR LOUBNA , BENNAS NARD , HASSOUN MUSTAPHA , MILLÁN ANDRÉS
Published: April 2022

Several field surveys at 391 freshwater localities between 1985 and 2019 were undertaken in Morocco. Altogether, our field studies identified 67 species belonging to three genera (Hydraena, Limnebius, and Ochthebius), and representing 85.89% of the Hydraenidae fauna of the country. The species Hydraena exarata Kiesenwetter, 1866 is reported for the first time from Africa, and Ochthebius (Ochthebius) thermalis Janssens, 1965 and O. (Ochthebius) grandipennis Fairmaire, 1879 are here recorded for the first time from Morocco. These findings increased the number of Moroccan Hydraenidae to 78. Ochthebius semisericeus Saint-Claire Deville, 1914 and O. viridis Peyron, 1858 are excluded from the Moroccan fauna. Furthermore, the checklist presented in this work includes 15 Moroccan endemic, 19 Ibero-Maghrebian endemic and 8 Maghrebian endemic species. A biogeographical analysis shows that the Hydraenidae from Morocco are essentially Mediterranean (89.74%), while the Palaearctic elements (7.70%) and the species with wider distributions (2.56%) are less represented, highlighting the general limited dispersion capability of Hydraenidae compared to other water beetle families. The present study can serve as the basis for future progress in the knowledge of the Moroccan Hydraenidae.
Towards the systematics and diversity of Neotropical Tanytarsus van der Wulp (Diptera: Chironomidae): news from Colombia
Authors: DANTAS GALILEU P.S. , AMAT EDUARDO , HAMADA NEUSA , GIŁKA WOJCIECH
Published: April 2022

Our study pertains to the systematics and diversity of non-biting midges of the genus Tanytarsus van der Wulp, 1874 from the Neotropical region and in particular, Colombia, a country scarcely studied for these dipterans to date. Adult male specimens collected from the Colombian Llanos and Andes biomes belong to five species described as new in the present paper: Tanytarsus colombiensis sp. nov. (placed in the caipira species group, here defined), T. germani sp. nov. and T. gnomon sp. nov. (both placed in the curvicristatus group, here defined), T. lulu sp. nov. (in the ligulatus group, here defined) and T. meta sp. nov. (the riopreto group). Also an illustrated brief redescription of the adult male of T. hastatus Sublette et Sasa, 1994 is provided. After reclassification of Caladomyia Säwedal, 1981, the name accepted as a junior synonym of Tanytarsus, several species names became homonyms, thus they are here proposed to be replaced with substitute names, as follows: Tanytarsus reiffi nom. nov. pro Tanytarsus reissi (Reiff, 2000); Tanytarsus sanseverinoi nom. nov. pro Tanytarsus angelae Trivinho-Strixino et Shimabukuro, 2017; Tanytarsus trivinhostrixinoi nom. nov. pro Tanytarsus fittkaui Sanseverino et Trivinho-Strixino, 2010. Rheotanytarsus breda (Roback, 1960) comb. nov. is excluded from Tanytarsus. An annotated checklist of Neotropical Tanytarsus, with 89 species, is also presented.
Morphological study of nymphal stages in Tenodera fasciata (Olivier, 1792) (Mantodea: Mantidae)
Authors: OSHIMA KAZUYUKI
Published: April 2022

To date, no accurate identification method has been established for distinguishing mantis species of the genus Tenodera at all instar nymphal stages. In this paper, all instar nymphal stages of Tenodera fasciata (Olivier, 1792) are described in detail. This is the first step toward establishing an identification method for distinguishing the species from other members of the genus, particularly, T. angustipennis Saussure, 1869, which is sympatric with T. fasciata in Japan. Morphological differences between instars in nymphal stages, and between male and female in nymphal stages, were found. However, there was no difference between male and female 1st instars. Sex in nymphal stages are identified by the presence or absence of a crack at the posterior margin of the abdominal sternite IX between immature gonoplacs, the shape of the posterior margin of the sternites VII and IX, the occurrence of gonapophyses on the sternite VIII, and so on. Instars in nymphal stages are identified by body length, the length of discoidal spines of the profemur, the shape and size of the wing pads, the shape of abdominal sternite VII to IX, and so on.
Strengthening Amplitude and Impact of the Pacific Meridional Mode on ENSO in the Warming Climate Depicted by CMIP6 Models
Authors: Fan Hanjie , Yang Song , Wang Chunzai , Wu Yuting , Zhang Guangli
Published: April 2022

The Pacific meridional mode (PMM) has been suggested to play an important role in modulating the development of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). In this study, we examine the projected changes in the PMM and its impact on ENSO under greenhouse gas forcing using the models of phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project. These models can properly reproduce the characteristics of PMM patterns but reveal discrepant PMM–ENSO relationships owing to different wind–evaporation–sea surface temperature (SST) (WES) feedback efficiency and different magnitude of atmospheric convection response to SST anomalies. We select the models that show good performance in simulating the PMM and its impact on ENSO for investigation of future projections. Results show potential increases in both PMM amplitude and its impact on ENSO under the shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP) 585 (SSP585) warming scenario with great intermodel consensus. Diagnosis of the WES feedback indicates increasing sensitivity of latent heat flux to zonal wind speed in a warming climate, which seems to be the main reason for the projected strengthening PMM and its impact on ENSO. In addition, a slightly intensified response of atmospheric convection to SST anomalies in the subtropical Pacific may partially contribute to a stronger PMM–ENSO relationship. The results from this study highlight the increasing importance of the PMM for ENSO development, which calls for more attention to be paid to the PMM for ENSO prediction.

Significance Statement

Variability of the sea surface temperature in the equatorial Pacific related to El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) can exert a great impact on global climate. The development of ENSO is partially modulated by the dominant mode of ocean–atmospheric variation in the subtropical North Pacific, namely, the Pacific meridional mode (PMM). This study is aimed to understand the change in the amplitude of the PMM and its impact on ENSO due to climate change. Multimodel projections suggest that the PMM will likely become stronger and exert a greater impact on ENSO since the future warmer climate is favorable for the growth of the PMM. These results call for more attention to be paid to the PMM for ENSO prediction.
Second Baroclinic Mode Rossby Waves in the South Indian Ocean
Authors: Nagura Motoki , Osafune Satoshi
Published: April 2022

Many previous studies of midlatitude Rossby waves have examined satellite altimetry data, which reflect variability near the surface above the pycnocline. Argo float observations provide hydrographic data in the upper 2000 m, which likely monitor subsurface variability below the pycnocline. This study examines the variability in meridional velocity at midlatitudes and investigates Rossby waves in the southern Indian Ocean using an ocean reanalysis generated by a 4DVAR method. The results show two modes of variability. One is trapped near the surface and propagates to the west at a phase speed close to that of first baroclinic mode Rossby waves. This mode is representative of variability detected by satellite altimetry. The other mode has a local peak in amplitude at ∼600-m depth and propagates to the west at a phase speed 3 times slower than the first baroclinic mode. Such slowly propagating signals are observed globally, but they are largest in amplitude in the southern Indian Ocean and consistent in phase speed with the second baroclinic mode. Results from numerical experiments using an OGCM show that zonal winds in the tropical Pacific Ocean related to ENSO are the primary driver of slowly propagating signals in the southern Indian Ocean. Wind forcing in the tropical Pacific Ocean drives a surface trapped jet that propagates via the Indonesian Archipelago and excites subsurface variability in meridional velocity in the southern Indian Ocean. In addition, surface heat flux and meridional winds near the west coast of Australia can drive subsurface variability.

Significance Statement

Many previous studies of midlatitude Rossby waves have used satellite altimetry measurements, which reflect variability in the upper few hundred meters of the ocean. Argo float observations have provided in situ hydrographic observations in the upper 2000 m, and these enable us to examine subsurface variability with high reliability. In this study, we used output from an ocean reanalysis, which assimilates in situ observations, and found that the meridional velocity below the surface (∼600-m depth) of the southern Indian Ocean propagates at a phase speed 3 times slower than that of surface variability. These slowly propagating signals can be of climatic importance because of their possible impact on meridional heat transport. We also discuss the driving force of these slowly propagating signals.
Crises Narratives Defining the COVID-19 Pandemic: Expert Uncertainties and Conspiratorial Sensemaking
Authors: Nadesan Majia
Published: April 2022

Experts, news media, and social media commentators struggled to make sense of SARS-CoV-2 January–May 2020 as disease caused by this virus, COVID-19, circulated the globe. This paper represents a longitudinal analysis of the primary narratives produced across expert, media, and social media sources to describe the virus, its phylogenetic origins, and biological effects. High expert uncertainty coupled with amplifying representations of risk across time drove collective sensemaking and conspiratorial narratives.
Laparoscopic-Assisted Transversus Abdominis Plane Block Is Superior to Port Site Infiltration in Reducing Post-Operative Opioid Use in Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Seiler Joclyn , Chong Alexander CM. , Chen Sugong
Published: April 2022

Background

The ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block can be time-consuming, costly, and technically challenging in the bariatric patient population. Laparoscopic-assisted TAP (L-TAP) block was developed and has been shown to be non-inferior to ultrasound-guided blocks. Postoperative pain can be significant, and pain control in the morbidly obese patients can be challenging. This study's aim was to compare L-TAP block to traditional port site infiltration in terms of postoperative opioid requirement for morbidly obese patients after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed from February 2019 through February 2020. Two study groups: L-TAP block and port site infiltration. Outcomes examined the amount of opioid used at different time segments relative to the operation. All intravenous (IV) and oral opioids used were converted into IV morphine milligram equivalents (MME) for standardization.

Results

150 patients were included. The patient characteristics were not statistically significant between the two groups. Post-operative opioid use trended lower in the L-TAP block group in all time segments. A significant difference was detected in IV opioid use during post-operative day 0 with the mean MME for the L-TAP block group being 1.1±3.8 and port site infiltration group being 2.8±4.5 (P = .02).

Conclusions

The L-TAP block more effectively reduces postoperative opioid use in comparison to port site infiltration in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Based on these findings, as well as the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of L-TAP blocks, its routine use in laparoscopy should be considered.
Could Systemic Inflammation in Healthy Individuals With Obesity Indicate Subclinical Atherosclerosis?
Authors: Ozbeyaz Nail B. , Gokalp Gokhan , Algul Engin , Kilic Pinar , Saricam Orkun , Aydinyilmaz Faruk , Guliyev Ilkin
Published: April 2022

Obesity is one of today’s pandemics. The link between obesity and inflammation is well established and contributes to atherogenesis. We aimed to determine the relationship between carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) and inflammation in healthy obese patients (n = 289). The patients were referred to the outpatient clinic due to obesity but had no chronic diseases. Subclinical atherosclerosis was defined as present in participants with cIMT values greater than those expected according to their age group. In patients with subclinical atherosclerosis, the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (1.86 ± .65 vs 1.57 ± .45, P < .01), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (120.0 ± 41.2 vs 106.8 ± 30.5, P ≤ .01), and systemic immune-inflammatory index (SII) (550.0 ± 232.8 vs 430.4 ± 135.0, P ≤ .01) were found to be higher. SII was the only independent risk factor for developing subclinical atherosclerosis (odds ratio (OR): 1.995, odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 1.692–4.099), P = .004). The area under the curve (AUC) was .664 (95% CI: .605–.729, P ≤ .001), and the optimal cut-off value was 436.7 (69.3% sensitivity and 61.6% specificity). In conclusion, SII may indicate subclinical atherosclerosis in healthy obese patients, thus leading to early initiation of treatment to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Red Emitting Copper Nanoclusters Using Trypsin as a Ligand for Sensing of Pb2+ And Hg2+ Ions in Water and Tobacco Samples
Authors: Joshi Dharaben J. , Lalrinhlupuii  , Malek Naved I. , Muthukumaran Rajendra Bose , Kailasa Suresh Kumar
Published: April 2022

In this work, a microwave assisted method was developed for synthesis of red fluorescent copper nanoclusters (NCs) using trypsin as a template (trypsin–Cu). The as-synthesized trypsin–Cu NCs are stable and water soluble, exhibiting fluorescence emission at 657 nm when excited at 490 nm. The as-prepared red-emitting trypsin–Cu NCs were characterized by using several analytical techniques such as ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) and fluorescence, fluorescence lifetime, Fourier transform infrared, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic techniques. Red-emitting trypsin–Cu NCs acted as a nanosensor for sensing both Pb2+ and Hg2+ ions through fluorescence quenching. Using this approach, good linearities are observed in the range of 0.1–25 and of 0.001–1 μM with the lower limit of detection of 14.63 and 56.81 nM for Pb2+ and Hg2+ ions, respectively. Trypsin–Cu NCs-based fluorescence assay was successfully applied to detect both Hg2+ and Pb2+ ions in water and tobacco samples.
College and Career Readiness Support for Youth With and Without Disabilities Based on the National Longitudinal Transition Study 2012
Authors: Lombardi Allison R. , Rifenbark Graham G. , Hicks Tyler , Taconet Ashley , Challenger Clewiston
Published: April 2022

In this study, we examined college and career readiness (CCR) support for students with and without disabilities using data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study 2012. We selected variables relevant to CCR and focused on the interaction of disability, race and ethnicity, and household income across a range of disability categories, including those on individualized education programs and 504 plans, as well as for those without disabilities. Overall, we analyzed 19 groups of students representing these intersectional characteristics. Our findings show significant differences among the groups with regard to receiving the CCR supports: help with college applications, course-taking advice, interpretation of college admissions exam scores, and arranging college visits. Results show students of color without disabilities from low-income households were 2 times more likely to receive certain CCR supports. In contrast, across all study outcomes, students with disabilities showed different patterns than their counterparts without disabilities and were at a clear disadvantage with regard to access to CCR supports. Findings suggest disparities in schoolwide CCR supports for those with disabilities, which are more pronounced for students of color with disabilities. Implications for secondary transition educators and school counselors are discussed.
Upstream Approaches to Addressing Prescription Stimulant Misuse and Diversion: Exploring Perspectives of College Students Who Misuse and Divert
Authors: Roldan Kate Diaz , Garcia Jacquelyn , Valencia Brian , Ayala Jeovanna Amador , Garcia Candelaria , McMullen Jaimie , Bavarian Niloofar
Published: April 2022

Background

We interviewed college students who engage in prescription stimulant misuse and diversion to better understand perspectives on prevention and intervention strategies.

Methods

Trained student researchers at one southern California university completed 32 face-to-face interviews with students who had a history of misuse and/or diversion. Participants provided insights on programs, policies, and practices that have the potential to deter behavior. Data were analyzed inductively via thematic analysis.

Results

Students were often misinformed or unaware of existing programs, policies and practices. Additionally, some students felt their behaviors would not be detected, whereas other students felt the fear of being detected would lead them to change their behaviors. Harm reduction and treatment-based approaches to address misuse were also recommended.

Conclusions

Our findings emphasize the importance of better educating students about, and enforcing, existing policies. In addition, the need to better inform students of existing campus programs is warranted.
Women and Minority Film Directors in Hollywood: Performance Implications of Product Development and Distribution Biases
Authors: Karniouchina Ekaterina V. , Carson Stephen J. , Theokary Carol , Rice Lorien , Reilly Siobhan
Published: April 2022

With representation issues in Hollywood coming under intense scrutiny, the movie industry is wrestling with gender- and race-related imbalances in its power structure. One area of concern is the small proportion of women and people of color retained as film directors, coupled with little evidence of improvement in representation among widely released U.S. movies over time. In this study, the authors examine factors that explain gender- and race-related performance disparities in the movie industry. They estimate a two-stage model that accounts for the effects of selection in matching director gender and race to (1) projects of varying potential, (2) production budgets, and (3) the number of screens secured during distribution. They use instrumental variables for revenue, budget, screens, and audience reviews and find that once endogeneity and selection are captured by the models, gender- and race-based performance differences disappear. The results show evidence of biases favoring male, nonminority directors in project assignment, budgeting, and distribution. These biases are stronger for movies with female and minority lead actors but weaker for directors with high clout and for international directors. A matched-sample analysis illustrates that women directors produce similar outcomes with lower budgets and that minority directors produce outsized revenues with equivalent budgets.
The Imperatives of Voice and Context in the Preparation of Community Teachers: Conceptualizing Learning-To-Teach Cycles
Authors: Richmond Gail , Marciano Joanne E. , Watson Vaughn W. M.
Published: April 2022

In this conceptual/theoretical paper, we present an argument about the importance of preparing community teachers, articulating tenets of youth voice, community voice, and context in this undertaking. We operationalize these tenets by proposing a Learning-to-Teach Cycle as an organizing structure for teacher candidates to encounter across their programs through four interrelated elements-- observing; identifying; reflecting/synthesizing; and designing/implementing--that center and leverage community issues, knowledge, and voice. This approach is urgently needed in urban contexts amid increasingly porous boundaries between schools and broader communities, and in recognition of youth and communities as sources of knowledge integral to the preparation of teachers.
Urban Riots and the Everyday Practice of Male Laborers in Prewar Japan
Authors: Yūko Fujino
Published: April 2022

This essay explores cultural factors in urban riots that occurred frequently in early twentieth-century Tokyo, extending from the 1905 Hibiya riot to the 1918 rice riots, by focusing on the everyday practice of young male laborers, including artisans, factory workers, and day laborers, who were the main participants in these riots. The essay first surveys the characteristics of urban riots in Tokyo in the period from 1905 to 1918 and then examines the everyday practice of male laborers, focusing particularly on the role of violence and impulsiveness. Many works of reportage on the urban lower classes published in the Meiji era (1868-1912) and Taisho era (1912-1926) depicted a lifestyle among male laborers that revolved around drinking, gambling, fighting, and patronizing prostitutes. These behaviors, as well as the emphasis on a Robin Hood–style bravado, were socially retrogressive, but constituted a distinctive culture of masculinity. By behaving “manly,” male laborers could earn esteem in their communities, although they lacked fame, fortune, or education, and could live proudly despite little chance of advancing their social status. This culture among male laborers was deeply related to the frequent occurrence of urban riots, and its waning ultimately led to the decline of riots in Tokyo in the 1920s.
Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma originating in the subglottic larynx
Authors: Elton Andrew , Van Beck Jenna , Li Bin , Ondrey Frank G.
Published: April 2022

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the larynx is an exceedingly rare cancer of the head and neck that is difficult to diagnose. Few case reports of laryngeal LCNEC exist within the literature, and it was not until recently that LCNEC was recognized as a discrete subtype of neuroendocrine carcinoma. Given its recent recognition as a distinct subtype, histologic characteristics distinguishing LCNEC from other poorly differentiated carcinomas remain under investigation. Various reports have shown genetic alterations such as p53 and/or p16 overexpression, which are typically associated with infection by human papilloma virus (HPV). However, some reports have shown p53 and/or p16 overexpression in HPV negative samples. In this case, we discuss a 67-year-old patient with a history of extensive alcohol and tobacco use with a newly diagnosed T4N0M0, high grade, LCNEC of the subglottic larynx. Tumor pathology demonstrated positive staining for typical neuroendocrine (NE) markers like synaptophysin and chromogranin A; however, there was diffuse CK34βE12 and p16 expression. LCNEC is a newly classified subtype of poorly differentiated neuroendocrine (NE) tumors, and the diagnosis requires consideration of the clinical presentation, microscopic features, and immunostaining markers.
Entrepreneurial passion and venture profit: Examining the moderating effects of political connections and environmental dynamism in an emerging market
Authors: Adomako Samuel , Mole Kevin F , Franklin Rebecca J , Murnieks Charles Y
Published: April 2022

This article analyses the contingent factors which influence the relationship between entrepreneurial passion and venture profit. While research on entrepreneurial passion is burgeoning, studies that analyse contingent factors and boundary conditions surrounding entrepreneurial passion theory are sparse. Moreover, we know very little about how the influence of entrepreneurial passion on venture outcomes might vary in emerging markets, typically characterised by higher levels of bureaucratic involvement and institutional deficiencies. We extend entrepreneurial passion theory by testing a contingent model that evaluates the influence of political connections and environmental dynamism on the relationship between entrepreneurial passion and venture profit. More specifically, we examine the role of passion on venture profit and the moderating impact of political connections and perceived environmental dynamism. Using time-lagged data from 231 small businesses in Ghana, we find that political connections amplify the potency of passion as a driver of venture profit. In addition, we find that this interaction is conditioned by environmental dynamism; specifically, the moderating effect of political connections on the relationship between entrepreneurial passion and venture profit is stronger when dynamism is high. Our fine-grained analysis increases the conceptual scope and generalisability of entrepreneurial passion to non-Western contexts.
A novel anti-lung cancer agent inhibits proliferation and epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Zhao Wen , Xu Ye , Guo Qingkui , Qian Wenliang , Zhu Chen , Zheng Min
Published: April 2022

Objective

To synthesize a novel chalcone-1,3,4-thiadiazole hybrid and investigate its anticancer effects against NCI-H460 cells.

Methods

( E)-3-(4-bromophenyl)-1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one, 1,3-dibromopropane and 1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thiol were used as chemical materials to synthesize compound ZW97. The NCI-H460 lung cancer cell line was selected to explore the antitumor effects of compound ZW97 in vitro and in vivo.

Results

Compound ZW97 selectively inhibited cell proliferation against lung cancer cell lines NCI-H460, HCC-44 and NCI-H3122 with IC50 values of 0.15 μM, 2.06 μM and 1.17 μM, respectively. ZW97 suppressed migration and the epithelial–mesenchymal transition process in NCI-H460 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Based on the kinase activity results and docking analysis, compound ZW97 is a novel tyrosine-protein kinase Met (c-Met kinase) inhibitor. It also inhibited NCI-H460 cell growth in xenograft models without obvious toxicity to normal tissues.

Conclusions

Compound ZW97 is a potential c-Met inhibitor that might be a promising agent to treat lung cancer by inhibiting the epithelial–mesenchymal transition process.
Semitendinosus vs Gracilis Grafts With 1- vs 2-Tunnel Techniques for Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction: A Biomechanical Study
Authors: Otto Alexander , Friedman Jamie L. , Szolomayer Lauren K. , Baldino Joshua B. , Obopilwe Elifho , Cote Mark P. , Mazzocca Augustus D. , Arciero Robert A.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Despite the evolution of acromioclavicular joint surgery to a more anatomic coracoclavicular (CC) ligament reconstruction, no definitive guidance regarding the number and position of bone tunnels in the clavicle, as well as the ideal graft choice, is established.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to biomechanically compare the reconstruction of the CC ligament complex between gracilis- and semitendinosus-tendon grafts in 1- and 2-tunnel techniques. It was hypothesized that the gracilis tendon graft will provide comparable primary stability in both tunnel techniques while utilizing a smaller tunnel diameter.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 24 cadaveric shoulders (13 men, 11 women; 66 ± 7.5 years) were randomly allocated to 4 repair groups: gracilis with 1 tunnel (GT-1), gracilis with 2 tunnels (GT-2), semitendinosus with 1 tunnel (ST-1), and semitendinosus with 2 tunnels (ST-2). First, specimens were tested for native anterior, posterior, and superior translations. Then, specimens were randomly assigned to 1 of the 4 CC reconstruction groups before undergoing the same testing, followed by cyclic loading and load to failure (LTF).

Results:

The GT-2 reconstruction demonstrated significantly less translation when compared with ST-2 in anterior ( P = .024) and posterior ( P = .048) directions. GT-1 and ST-2 both showed significantly less translation than ST-1 in anterior and superior directions ( P < .001). All reconstructions demonstrated less superior translation compared with native testing, with GT-1 and ST-2 significantly less than ST-1 ( P < .001). There were no significant differences for peak displacement and LTF between groups.

Conclusion:

Gracilis tendon grafts using a 1- or 2-tunnel technique for CC ligament reconstruction provided comparable translation, displacement, and LTF as corresponding semitendinosus grafts. Therefore, the gracilis tendon should be considered as a biomechanical equivalent graft choice for the reconstruction of the CC ligament complex.

Clinical Relevance:

In a cadaveric model, the gracilis tendon demonstrated adequate fixation with minimal translation in CC ligament reconstruction while utilizing smaller diameter bone tunnels, which may help minimize the risk of complications such as loss of reduction and fracture.
Parental Involvement in Education and Academic Achievement in Adolescents With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Musabelliu Gladiola , Wiener Judith , Rogers Maria
Published: April 2022

This study examined the relationship between parental involvement in education (PIE) and adolescent academic achievement in 99 adolescents with and without ADHD. PIE was measured by two parent-report questionnaires. A standardized test was used to measure academic achievement. Adolescent ADHD status predicted academic achievement. Maternal PIE did not predict adolescent achievement over and above adolescent ADHD status. Fathers’ self-efficacy, supportive involvement, and aspirations moderated the association between adolescent ADHD status and adolescent achievement. These PIE variables were positively associated with achievement in adolescents with ADHD. Paternal self-efficacy was not associated with achievement in adolescents without ADHD, and paternal supportive involvement and paternal aspirations predicted lower achievement in these adolescents. These results suggest the importance of paternal involvement in the learning of adolescents with ADHD and have implications for involving fathers in interventions aimed at improving their academic achievement.
Racial and Ethnic Differences in Hearing Aid Use Among Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Yi Julie S. , Garcia Morales Emmanuel E. , Reed Nicholas S. , Willink Amber , Nieman Carrie L.
Published: April 2022

Objectives

We examined individual-level factors associated with hearing aid use by race and ethnicity in a nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries.

Methods

We used the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (cycles 2016–2018) for 10,301 older adults with hearing loss and hearing aid use as the primary outcome. Covariates included education, income, urban residence, chronic conditions, functional limitations, and Medicaid eligibility. Multivariable logistic regression stratified by race and ethnicity was used to identify factors associated with hearing aid use.

Results

Factors associated with hearing aid use included higher education among White (OR = 1.35, 95%CI:1.16, 1.58), Black (OR = 1.76, 95%CI:1.02, 3.05), and Hispanic (OR = 1.77, 95%CI:1.17, 2.68) beneficiaries. Urban residence was associated with hearing aid use for Black participants (OR = 3.06, 95%CI:1.17, 8.03) and Medicaid eligibility for Hispanic participants (OR = 1.58, 95%CI:0.97, 2.59), although the confidence interval included the null hypothesis.

Discussion

ndividual-level factors associated with hearing aid use differed by race and ethnicity among Medicare beneficiaries.
Effect of heat treatment on nano-mechanical behaviour of matrix and carbide phases of Fe–13Cr–1C hardfaced alloy coating
Authors: Kaushik N.Ch. , Sai Krishna T. , Tarun Satya A. , Ajay Vamsi J. , Rastogi Pratyank , Kiran Raphael P.
Published: April 2022

Fe–Cr–C hardfaced coatings are applied over components used in mining, earth moving, ash and coal handling systems. The performance of these coatings depend on microstructural phases present in the deposit post-solidification and/or heat treatment. To prevent the failure of a coating, understanding the mechanical behaviour of the existing phases is one of the key areas of focus. In the current investigation, the study was limited to understand the influence of heat treatment process on nano-scale hardness and reduced modulus properties of phases of Fe–13%Cr–1%C hardfaced alloy coating by accelerated property mapping (XPM) technique. Colour variation in the property maps showed the relative deformation nature of the material. The hardness and reduced modulus values for carbide phases were found to be higher in all conditions. From Weibull statistical analysis, the Weibull modulus values reduced drastically for the carbide phase after heat treatment, revealing higher variability of mechanical properties. The above trends were observed mainly due to %C and %Cr difference across phases and carbide phase morphology transformation happened due to heat treatment.