bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Descriptive Study Examining the Correlation of Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Styles to Conflict Management Styles of Nursing School Administrators
Authors: Welch Vicki A.
Published: October 2023

AIM

This study aimed to identify if a correlation exists among trait emotional intelligence (EI), leadership styles, and conflict management styles used by nurse education administrators.

BACKGROUND

Nursing is fraught with incivility, bullying, and increasing physical aggression. Conflict surrounds nurses at every level. EI and leadership styles in nursing have been addressed. Few studies were found that addressed conflict management by nurse education administrators.

METHOD

A quantitative nonexperimental correlational design using discriminant analysis was used in this study.

RESULTS

Trait EI factors of emotionality and sociability correlated with conflict management styles. Leadership styles and conflict management styles were situational; management styles of integrating and compromising were underused in conflict situations.

CONCLUSION

Nurse education administrators are in a position to become disruptive innovators in changing the nursing culture. The increased use of conflict management styles of integrating and compromising can help address incivility and bullying.
Inborn errors of immunity underlying defective T-cell memory
Authors: Boutboul David , Picard Capucine , Latour Sylvain
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

T-cell memory is a complex process not well understood involving specific steps, pathways and different T-cell subpopulations. Inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) represent unique models to decipher some of these requirements in humans. More than 500 different IEIs have been reported to date, and recently a subgroup of monogenic disorders characterized by memory T-cell defects has emerged, providing novel insights into the pathways of T-cell memory generation and maintenance, although this new knowledge is mostly restricted to peripheral blood T-cell memory populations.

Recent findings

This review draws up an inventory of the main and recent IEIs associated with T-cell memory defects and their mice models, with a particular focus on the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signalling pathway, including the scaffold protein capping protein regulator and myosin 1 linker 2 (CARMIL2) and the T-cell co-stimulatory molecules CD28 and OX-40. Besides NF-κB, IKZF1 (IKAROS), a key transcription factor of haematopoiesis and STAT3-dependent interleukin-6 signals involving the transcription factor ZNF341 also appear to be important for the generation of T cell memory. Somatic reversion mosaicism in memory T cells is documented for several gene defects supporting the critical role of these factors in the development of memory T cells with a potential clinical benefit.

Systematic examination of T-cell memory subsets could be helpful in the diagnosis of IEIs.
Outcomes of Surgically Treated Pilon Fractures: A Comparison of Patients with and without Diabetes
Authors: Chowdary Ashish R. , Ravi Varun , Wukich Dane K. , Sambandam Senthil
Published: October 2023

Objectives:

Compare systemic complications, fracture healing related complications, and reoperation rates for pilon fractures in patients with and without diabetes.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

National administrative claims database with patient records.

Patients:

Patients from the years 2016 to 2020 with surgically treated closed or open pilon fractures.

Intervention:

Patients with either closed or open pilon fractures with diabetes were compared to those without diabetes. Subgroup analysis was performed on diabetic patients with and without neuropathy.

Outcomes:

Postoperative systemic complications at 90 days, fracture healing complications at 90 days and 1 year, and reoperative rates at 90 days and 1 year.

Results:

2,654 (31.4%) patients with closed fractures and 491 (28.7%) patients with open fractures had a diagnosis of diabetes. In both open and closed fractures, we identified significantly higher rates of acute kidney injury, cardiac arrest, and surgical site infection in diabetic patients compared to non-diabetic patients. Additionally, we found significantly higher rates of below knee amputations in diabetic patients. Diabetic patients with closed fractures had significantly higher rates of wound healing related reoperations. Patients with advanced diabetic disease, as suggested by the presence of neuropathy, had higher rates of nonunions and post-traumatic arthritis.

Conclusions:

The data presented here provides updated estimates on complication rates in pilon fractures using large sample size. Additionally, our work identifies differences in outcomes for patients with and without diabetes following pilon fracture surgery. Our data suggests that patients with severe diabetes are prone to higher rates of healing complications and may benefit from additional therapeutic support.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Coated Cast Saw Blades Decrease Blade Temperature During Cast Removal
Authors: Stevens Michael R.E. , Kirk Andrew M. , Collofello Brandon S. , Muffly Brian T. , Prusick Vincent W.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Thermal injuries can occur during cast removal with an oscillating saw. The purpose of this study is to describe the effect of blade material, blade wear, and cast material on blade temperature.

Methods:

Short arm plaster and fiberglass casts were cured overnight and bivalved with either new or worn stainless-steel or tungsten-disulfide coated blades. Blade use was defined as removing 1 short arm cast. Blades used to remove more than 20 casts were defined as worn. Ten trials were performed with each combination of blade material, blade wear, and cast material, except for the combination of fiberglass and a worn stainless-steel blade due to complete erosion of cutting teeth. Thirty casts were removed with stainless-steel blades, and 40 casts were removed with coated blades. Blade temperature was measured continuously at 5 Hz using a T-type thermocouple and microcontroller board. A Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the mean maximum temperature between groups.

Results:

For plaster casts, new and worn stainless-steel blades produced mean maximum temperatures of 51.4°C and 63.7°C (P=0.003), respectively. New stainless-steel blades produced significantly higher mean maximum temperatures on fiberglass casts than plaster casts (95.9°C vs. 51.4°C, P<.001). For plaster casts, new and worn coated blades produced mean maximum temperatures of 56.9°C and 53.8°C (P=0.347). For fiberglass casts, new and worn coated blades produced mean maximum temperatures of 76.6°C and 77.7°C (P=0.653). As with new stainless-steel blades, new coated blades produced significantly higher mean maximum temperatures on fiberglass than plaster (76.6°C vs. 56.9°C, P<0.001). Mean maximum temperatures between new stainless-steel and coated blades during removal of plaster casts were 51.4°C and 56.9°C (P=0.131), respectively. However, new coated blades demonstrated significantly lower mean maximum temperatures during fiberglass cast removal compared to new stainless-steel blades (76.6°C vs. 95.9°C, P=0.016).

Conclusions:

Coated blades outperformed stainless-steel in nearly all combinations. We recommend limited use of stainless-steel blades to minimize blade temperatures during cast removal.

Clinical Relevance:

Appropriate selection of blade material and monitoring blade wear minimizes blade temperature during cast removal.
The Importance of Incorporating Proportional Alignment in Adult Cervical Deformity Corrections Relative to Regional and Global Alignment
Authors: Passias Peter G. , Williamson Tyler K. , Pierce Katherine E. , Schoenfeld Andrew J. , Krol Oscar , Imbo Bailey , Joujon-Roche Rachel , Tretiakov Peter , Ahmad Salman , Bennett-Caso Claudia , Mir Jamshaid , Dave Pooja , McFarland Kimberly , Owusu-Sarpong Stephane , Lebovic Jordan A. , Janjua Muhammad Burhan , de la Garza-Ramos Rafael , Vira Shaleen , Diebo Bassel , Koller Heiko , Protopsaltis Themistocles S. , Lafage Renaud , Lafage Virginie
Published: October 2023

Study Design/Setting.

Retrospective single-center study.

Background.

The global alignment and proportion score is widely used in adult spinal deformity surgery. However, it is not specific to the parameters used in adult cervical deformity (ACD).

Purpose.

Create a cervicothoracic alignment and proportion (CAP) score in patients with operative ACD.

Methods.

Patients with ACD with 2-year data were included. Parameters consisted of relative McGregor’s Slope [RMGS = (MGS × 1.5)/0.9], relative cervical lordosis [RCL = CL – thoracic kyphosis (TK)], Cervical Lordosis Distribution Index (CLDI = C2 – Apex × 100/C2 – T2), relative pelvic version (RPV = sacral slope – pelvic incidence × 0.59 + 9), and a frailty factor (greater than 0.33). Cutoff points were chosen where the cross-tabulation of parameter subgroups reached a maximal rate of meeting the Optimal Outcome. The optimal outcome was defined as meeting Good Clinical Outcome criteria without the occurrence of distal junctional failure (DJF) or reoperation. CAP was scored between 0 and 13 and categorized accordingly: ≤3 (proportioned), 4–6 (moderately disproportioned), >6 (severely disproportioned). Multivariable logistic regression analysis determined the relationship between CAP categories, overall score, and development of distal junctional kyphosis (DJK), DJF, reoperation, and Optimal Outcome by 2 years.

Results.

One hundred five patients with operative ACD were included. Assessment of the 3-month CAP score found a mean of 5.2/13 possible points. 22.7% of patients were proportioned, 49.5% moderately disproportioned, and 27.8% severely disproportioned. DJK occurred in 34.5% and DJF in 8.7%, 20.0% underwent reoperation, and 55.7% achieved Optimal Outcome. Patients severely disproportioned in CAP had higher odds of DJK [OR: 6.0 (2.1–17.7); P=0.001], DJF [OR: 9.7 (1.8–51.8); P=0.008], reoperation [OR: 3.3 (1.9–10.6); P=0.011], and lower odds of meeting the optimal outcome [OR: 0.3 (0.1–0.7); P=0.007] by 2 years, while proportioned patients suffered zero occurrences of DJK or DJF.

Conclusion.

The regional alignment and proportion score is a method of analyzing the cervical spine relative to global alignment and demonstrates the importance of maintaining horizontal gaze, while also matching overall cervical and thoracolumbar alignment to limit complications and maximize clinical improvement.
Risk of liver-related events in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH) patients with fibrosis: A comparative analysis of various risk stratification criteria
Authors: Pennisi Grazia , Enea Marco , Romero-Gomez Manuel , Bugianesi Elisabetta , Wai-Sun Wong Vincent , Fracanzani Anna Ludovica , de Ledinghen Victor , George Jacob , Berzigotti Annalisa , Viganò Mauro , Sebastiani Giada , Cannella Roberto , Delamarre Adèle , Di Maria Gabriele , Lange Naomi F. , Tulone Adele , Di Marco Vito , Cammà Calogero , Petta Salvatore
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims:

International regulatory agencies recommend testing drug therapy for patients with noncirrhotic high-risk metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH) because they are at risk of liver-related events (LRE). We aimed to compare the risk of LRE in patients with MASLD stratified for F2-F4 fibrosis and MASH.

Approach and Results:

Overall, 1938 consecutive patients with biopsy-proven MASLD were enrolled. High-risk MASH was defined as MASH with F2-F4 fibrosis. LSM was measured by transient elastography. LRE were recorded during follow-up. Cox multivariate models were used to assess the association between high-risk MASH or F2-F4 fibrosis without MASH, of LSM (≥8 or ≥10 Kpa), and of AGILE 3+ with LRE. The diagnostic performance for the prediction of LRE was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves. The observed 5-year actuarial rate of LRE was 0.4%, 0.2%, 5.1%, and 6.6% in patients with F0-F1 fibrosis without MASH, F0-F1 fibrosis with MASH, F2-F4 fibrosis without MASH, and high-risk MASH, respectively. At multivariate Cox regression analysis using F0-F1 fibrosis without MASH as a reference, both F2-F4 fibrosis without MASH [adjusted HR (aHR) 9.96] and high-risk MASH (aHR 10.14) were associated with LRE. In the 1074 patients with available LSM, LSM ≥ 10 kPa (aHR 6.31) or AGILE 3+ > 0.67 (aHR 27.45) independently predicted the development of LRE and had similarly acceptable 5-year area under the receiver operating characteristic to high-risk MASH and F2-F4 fibrosis (0.772, 0.818, 0.739, and 0.780, respectively).

Conclusions:

The risk of LRE is similar in patients with high-risk MASH and with F2-F4 fibrosis without MASH. The use of LSM ≥ 10 kPa or AGILE 3+ > 0.67 could be an accurate option to identify patients with MASLD worthy to be included in clinical trials.
Cortisol secretion and abnormalities of glucose metabolism in nondiabetic patients with hypertension
Authors: Brosolo Gabriele , Da Porto Andrea , Bulfone Luca , Vacca Antonio , Bertin Nicole , Catena Cristiana , Sechi Leonardo A.
Published: October 2023

Objective:

Glycometabolic changes are associated with hypercortisolism in Cushing's syndrome. Because impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and insulin resistance are frequently detected in patients with essential hypertension, we hypothesized that in these patients, early glycometabolic abnormalities might be related to differences in regulation of cortisol secretion.

Methods:

In a cross-sectional study, we included 155 nondiabetic, essential hypertensive patients who were free of organ complications. The homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index and the area under the curve of plasma glucose (AUC-glucose) and insulin (AUC-insulin) concentration following an oral glucose tolerance test were measured, together with daily plasma cortisol (8 a.m., 3 p.m. and 12 a.m.; AUC-cortisol) and 8 a.m. cortisol after 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test (DST).

Results:

IGT was present in 27% of patients who were older and had higher BMI, plasma triglycerides and uric acid, AUC-cortisol and DST-cortisol, and lower HDL-cholesterol. Frequency of IGT increased progressively across tertiles of DST-cortisol, together with levels of glycated hemoglobin, fasting insulin and C-peptide, HOMA-index, AUC-glucose, and AUC-insulin. AUC-cortisol and DST-cortisol were directly correlated with insulin, C-peptide, HOMA-index, AUC-glucose, and AUC-insulin. Multivariate regression analysis showed that DST-cortisol was directly and independently correlated with HOMA index, AUC-glucose, and AUC-insulin. In a logistic regression model, both AUC-cortisol and DST-cortisol independently predicted IGT.

Conclusion:

Daily cortisol and cortisol response to DST are independent determinants of IGT and insulin resistance in nondiabetic patients with hypertension, suggesting that even subtle differences in regulation of cortisol secretion might increase the risk of these patients to develop diabetes.
Optimizing Telehealth Services
Authors: Pack Allison P. , Rusca Paula , Llaneza Josephine , Wismer Guisselle , Huang Wei , Zuleta Rodolfo , Bailey Stacy C.
Published: October 2023

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic increased telehealth services in federally funded community health centers (CHCs). Yet little is known about common determinants of use among CHC patients.

Objective:

We examined the use of telehealth among patient participants at 1 large CHC network providing care to underserved populations at urban and suburban sites in the Midwest.

Methods:

We conducted a mixed-methods study utilizing a sequential explanatory design. Participants were English and/or Spanish-speaking adults who attended ≥1 visits for themselves or their child over a 12-month period at any practice location. Research staff conducted a structured phone survey of eligible adults. The results subsequently facilitated purposive sampling of telehealth “users” and “nonusers” for qualitative phone interviews.

Results:

The survey participants included 500 adults. Most had access to the resources needed to utilize telehealth, including a smartphone (90.4%) and home internet (83.0%). About half (50.8%) “rarely or never” had problems with internet speed, reliability, or quality. Most (81.1%) were aware of the patient portal and 59.8% had utilized video visits. Participants who were Spanish-speaking and with limited English proficiency faced some of the greatest barriers. Qualitative interview participants included 12 users and 12 nonusers of telehealth. Users found telehealth convenient and efficient, while nonusers lacked awareness about how telehealth services could be beneficial or needed assistance to sign up, join, or use telehealth.

Conclusions:

Most participants had the resources and awareness necessary to use telehealth services. Those who use them appreciate the convenience and efficiency. Nevertheless, additional support may be needed to prevent telehealth from exacerbating health inequities.
Medication Safety Events After Acute Myocardial Infarction Among Veterans Treated at VA Versus Non-VA Hospitals
Authors: Weeda Erin R. , Ward Ralph , Gebregziabher Mulugeta , Axon Robert N. , Taber David J.
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Fragmentation of health care across systems can contribute to mistakes in prescribing and filling medications among patients treated for myocardial infarction (MI). We sought to compare omissions, duplications, and delays in outpatient medications used for secondary prevention among veterans treated for MI at Veterans Affairs (VA) versus non-VA hospitals.

Methods:

We utilized national VA and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services data (2012–2018) to identify veterans 65 years or older hospitalized for MI and measured the use of outpatient medications for secondary prevention in the 30 days after MI among those treated at VA versus non-VA hospitals.

Results:

A total of 118,456 veterans experiencing MI were included; of which 102,209 were hospitalized at non-VA hospitals. An omission in any medication class occurred more frequently among veterans treated at non-VA versus VA hospitals (82.8% vs 67.8%, P < 0.001). In multivariable modeling, the odds of omissions in any medication class were higher among those treated at non-VA versus VA hospitals (odds ratio: 3.04; 95% CI: 2.88–3.20). Duplications occurred more frequently in veterans treated at non-VA versus VA hospitals: 1.9% versus 1.6% had 1 or more for non-VA versus VA hospitals (P < 0.001). Veterans treated at non-VA hospitals were more likely to have delays of 3 days or more in prescription fills after hospital discharge (88.4% vs 70.6% across all classes, P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Omissions, duplications, and delays in outpatient prescribing of secondary prevention medications were more common among 118,456 veterans treated at non-VA versus VA hospitals for MI. Interventions aimed at improving care transitions and optimizing medication use among veterans treated at non-VA hospitals should be implemented.
Sweet swell of burning fat: emerging role of high-density lipoprotein in energy homeostasis
Authors: Kontush Anatol , Martin Maximiliano , Brites Fernando
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

Metabolism of lipids and lipoproteins, including high-density lipoprotein (HDL), plays a central role in energy homeostasis. Mechanisms underlying the relationship between energy homeostasis and HDL however remain poorly studied.

Recent findings

Available evidence reveals that HDL is implicated in energy homeostasis. Circulating high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels are affected by energy production, raising with increasing resting metabolic rate. Lipolysis of triglycerides as a source of energy decreases plasma levels of remnant cholesterol, increases levels of HDL-C, and can be cardioprotective. Switch to preferential energy production from carbohydrates exerts opposite effects.

Low HDL-C may represent a biomarker of inefficient energy production from fats. HDL-C-raising can be beneficial when it reflects enhanced energy production from burning fat.
From Death to Life/Back to the Future: Detailed Premorbid Clinical and Family History Can Save Lives and Address the Final Diagnosis in Sudden Unexplained Deaths With Negative Autopsy
Authors: Turkgenc Burcu , Baydar Cetin L. , Deniz Idris , Akcay Arzu , Ergoren Mahmut Cerkez , Sag Sebnem Ozemrı , Yakicier Mustafa C. , Temel Sehime G.
Published: October 2023

Sudden cardiac death is a sudden, unexpected death developed by one of the many different causes of cardiac arrest that occur within 1 hour of the onset of new symptoms. Sudden unexplained death (SUD) comprises a normal heart at postmortem examination and negative toxicological analysis. SUD often arises from cardiac genetic disease, particularly channelopathies. Channelopathies, or inherited arrhythmia syndromes, are a group of disorders characterized by an increased risk of sudden cardiac death, abnormal cardiac electrical function, and, typically, a structurally normal heart. They share an underlying genetic etiology where disease-causing genetic variants may lead to the absence or dysfunction of proteins involved in the generation and propagation of the cardiac action potential. Our study aimed to evaluate the importance of next-generation sequencing in the postmortem investigations of SUD cases. In this study, 5 forensic SUD cases were investigated for inherited cardiac disorders. We screened a total of 68 cardiac genes for the sibling of case 1, as well as case 2, and 51 genes for cases 3, 4, and 5. Of the 12 variants identified, 2 likely pathogenic variants (16.7%) were the TMEM43_ c.1000+2T>C splice site mutation and the SCN5A_ p.W703X nonsense mutation. The remaining 10 variants of uncertain significance were detected in the TRPM4, RANGRF, AKAP9, KCND3, KCNE1, DSG2, CASQ1, and SNTA1 genes. Irrespective of genetic testing, all SUD families require detailed clinical testing to identify relatives who may be at risk. Molecular autopsy and detailed premorbid clinical and family histories can survive family members of SUD cases.
Multicentre Study Into the Use of Polyethylene Glycol With Electrolytes Over at Least 6 Months to Treat Constipation in Paediatric Populations
Authors: Bautista-Casasnovas Adolfo , Argüelles-Martín Federico , Martín-Martínez Benjamín , Domínguez-Otero María Jose , Tavares Marta , Amil-Dias Jorge
Published: October 2023

Background:

Constipation is a common clinical problem in children, for which the first-line therapeutic options are osmotic laxatives, mainly polyethylene glycol (PEG). These treatments are often prescribed for short or limited periods, with progressive treatment withdrawal often resulting in relapses. However, there are a few studies into the long-term use (≥6 months) of PEG 3350 with electrolytes (PEG+E) in terms of the patients’ clinical evolution.

Objectives:

To assess bowel movement and other relevant symptoms in children with constipation receiving PEG+E (≥6 months), as well as parent/caregiver satisfaction with this treatment.

Methods:

A retrospective, observational, descriptive, longitudinal, and multicentre study was carried out on 74 children diagnosed with functional constipation (ROME IV criteria) who had received PEG+E (≥6 months). Bowel control was assessed using the Bristol stool scale, and the parent’s/caregiver’s perception of the treatment was also evaluated employing a nonvalidated questionnaire.

Results:

Children with an average duration of constipation >1 year experienced a significant improvement in bowel movements and stool consistency when using PEG+E. The mean duration of use was 18.6 (±13.4) months, without the need to adjust the dose for weight. All clinical symptoms improved significantly except bloating, and all the parents/caregivers confirmed these clinical improvements.

Conclusions:

Children treated with PEG+E (≥6 months) normalised their bowel movements, improving the clinical symptoms related to constipation in the absence of serious advert events or the need for dosage adjustments due to weight gain. Parents/caregivers reported good satisfaction with PEG+E treatment.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Children: The Role of Endoscopy and the Sheffield Scoring System in a Resource-Limited Setting
Authors: Adeniyi Oluwafunmilayo Funke , Lesi Olufunmilayo Adenike , Odeghe Emuobor Aghoghor , Oyeleke Ganiyat , Croft Nicholas
Published: October 2023

Objective:

To document the clinical presentation, endoscopic diagnosis, and Sheffield scores of children with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding who were referred for endoscopy at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. The participants who needed endoscopy based on clinical criteria and according to the Sheffield scores were also documented.

Methods:

This study analyzed the records of 111 children with GI bleeding retrospectively from January 2013 to January 2021, while 9 children were recruited prospectively from February 2021 to March 2022. Receiver operating curves and area under the curve were generated to test the ability of the Sheffield scores to predict rebleeds, mortality, and the need for endoscopic intervention for upper GI bleeds.

Results:

One hundred and twenty participants were recruited. Ninety-one (75.8%) presented with upper GI bleeding (UGIB), while 29 (24.2%) had lower GI bleeding (LGIB). Only 70 (58.3%) (53 UGIB and 17 LGIB) had endoscopy performed. For UGIB, 5 (9.4%) had no source of the bleeding identified at endoscopy, 12 (22.6%) had variceal bleeding, and 36 (67.9%) had nonvariceal bleeding. Colonoscopy revealed juvenile polyps in 5 (29.4%), indeterminate colitis in 5 (29.4%), ulcerative colitis in 4 (23.5%), Crohn’s disease in 1 (5.9%), and hemorrhoids in 2 (11.8%) participants, respectively. The Sheffield score was ≥8 in 42 (46.1%) of the participants who presented only with UGIB (hematemesis and melena). The scores were significantly related to the type of bleeds, rebleeds, and deaths (P = 0.00).

Conclusion:

The clinical and endoscopic findings in this study are similar to those reported previously. The Sheffield scoring was useful in assessing Nigerian children. However, due to limited access and other restraints, endoscopy was not performed on all the study participants even when the scoring system was suggestive. The availability, and therefore, utility of GI endoscopy in this setting are still suboptimal. The need for the provision of adequate equipment and resources and the training of personnel is thus recommended.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma—Southeast Asia Updates
Authors: Singh Satender Pal , Arora Vinod , Madke Tushar , Sarin Shiv Kumar
Published: October 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading cancers worldwide. Classically, HCC develops in genetically susceptible individuals who are exposed to risk factors, especially in the presence of liver cirrhosis. Significant temporal and geographic variations exist for HCC and its etiologies. Over time, the burden of HCC has shifted from the low-moderate to the high sociodemographic index regions, reflecting the transition from viral to nonviral causes. Geographically, the hepatitis viruses predominate as the causes of HCC in Asia and Africa. Although there are genetic conditions that confer increased risk for HCC, these diagnoses are rarely recognized outside North America and Europe. In this review, we evaluate the epidemiologic trends and risk factors of HCC and discuss the prevention with surveillance and short management.
(Epi)genotype and Timing of Tongue Reduction Predict Safety and Long-Term Outcomes in Beckwith–Wiedemann Syndrome
Authors: Wagner Connor S. , Pontell Matthew E. , Salinero Lauren K. , Barrero Carlos E. , Drust William A. , Demarchis Madison , Liao Eric C. , Kalish Jennifer M. , Taylor Jesse A.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Macroglossia is a cardinal feature of Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) with a clinical spectrum where the indication and timing for surgery remain to be validated. This study leverages a cohort of molecularly characterized patients with BWS to correlate epigenetic diagnosis with phenotype and treatment outcome.

Methods:

Patients with BWS seen in consultation for macroglossia from 2009 to 2022 were reviewed for phenotype, molecular diagnosis, tongue reduction status, timing of surgery (early, less than 12 months), and perioperative complications.

Results:

A total of 237 patients were included. Imprinting control region 2 loss of methylation was the most common epigenotype (61%). Paternal uniparental isodisomy for chromosome 11 included a larger proportion of patients undergoing tongue reduction (18%) than those not undergoing surgery (8%; P = 0.024) and was associated with need for repeated surgery (OR, 4.49; 95% CI, 1.06 to 18.98; P = 0.041). Complications including wound dehiscence, ventilator-associated pneumonia, and unplanned extubation were more common in patients undergoing early surgery (20%) than late surgery (4%; OR, 5.70; 95% CI, 1.14 to 28.55; P = 0.034).

Conclusions:

This study presents one of the largest cohorts correlating molecular diagnosis with clinical course of macroglossia treatment in BWS. Macroglossia in patients with paternal uniparental isodisomy for chromosome 11 is associated with higher rates of reoperation. Relief of obstructive sleep apnea with early tongue reduction must be weighed against the risk of perioperative complications, most of which are nonsurgical. This study highlights how molecular diagnosis advances clinical care by risk stratifying clinical outcomes in a center providing integrated multidisciplinary care for the BWS population.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Risk, III.
68Ga-PSMA PET/CT in Hepatic Metastasis From Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor
Authors: Chen Shaoming , Lin Zefang , Wang Chao , Miao Weibing
Published: October 2023

A 53-year-old man underwent both 18F-FDG and 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT to evaluate a mass in the left upper abdomen. The scans demonstrated intense uptake of both 18F-FDG and 68Ga-PSMA in the mass. However, a nodule in the left lobe of the liver showed increased uptake of 68Ga-PSMA, which was not FDG avid. Histopathological examination after surgical resection of the mass confirmed the diagnosis of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (G2). Subsequently, 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT demonstrated intense radioactivity of the nodule in the left lobe of the liver consistent with hepatic metastasis from neuroendocrine tumor.
Treatment of Multiple Bone Metastases of Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer With 225Ac-PSMA-617
Authors: Yang Hongyu , Zhang Yu , Su Dan , Zhang Yu , Chen Yue
Published: October 2023

177Lu–prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer has emerged as a very promising therapy. However, some of the PSMA-expressing positive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer patients never respond or develop resistance to 177Lu-PSMA. We present a case of castration-resistant prostate cancer with multiple bone metastases. Remission of clinical symptoms and imaging lesions can be observed after 4 cycles of 225Ac-PSMA-617 therapy. Moreover, the man did not have any observable adverse effects.
Increased 68Ga-FAPI Activity in Primary Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Gallbladder
Authors: Chen Longlan , Sun Rui , Liu Lisheng , Hua Jun , Chen Xiaoliang
Published: October 2023

Primary small cell neuroendocrine carcinomas are extremely rare heterogeneous neoplasms. We present 68Ga-FAPI (fibroblast activation protein inhibitor) PET/CT findings of small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the gallbladder in a 57-year-old woman. This rare gallbladder small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma demonstrated intense tracer uptake on 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT. This demonstrates the potential value of 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT for evaluation of gallbladder small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma.
Aberrant pace of cortical neuron development in brain organoids from patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and schizophrenia
Authors: Rao Sneha B. , Brundu Francesco , Chen Yannan , Sun Yan , Zhu Huixiang , Shprintzen Robert J. , Tomer Raju , Rabadan Raul , Leong Kam W. , Markx Sander , Xu Bin , Gogos Joseph A.
Published: October 2023

Adults and children afflicted with the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) exhibit cognitive, social, and emotional impairments, and are at significantly heightened risk for schizophrenia (SCZ). The impact of this deletion on early human brain development, however, has remained unclear. Here we harness organoid models of the developing human cerebral cortex, cultivated from subjects with 22q11.2DS and SCZ, as well as unaffected control samples, to identify cell-type-specific developmental abnormalities arising from this genomic lesion. Leveraging single-cell RNA-sequencing in conjunction with experimental validation, we find that the loss of genes within the 22q11.2 locus leads to a delayed development of cortical neurons. This compromised development was reflected in an elevated proportion of actively proliferating neural progenitor cells, coupled with a decreased fraction of more mature neurons. Furthermore, we identify perturbed molecular imprints linked to neuronal maturation, observe the presence of sparser neurites, and note a blunted amplitude in glutamate-induced Ca2+ transients. The aberrant transcription program underlying impaired development contains molecular signatures significantly enriched in neuropsychiatric genetic liability. MicroRNA profiling and target gene investigation suggest that microRNA dysregulation may drive perturbations of genes governing the pace at which maturation unfolds. Using protein-protein interaction network analysis we define complementary effects stemming from additional genes residing within the deleted locus. Our study uncovers reproducible neurodevelopmental and molecular alterations due to 22q11.2 deletions. These findings have the potential to facilitate disease modeling and promote the pursuit of therapeutic interventions.
Extramacrochaetae regulates Notch signaling in theDrosophilaeye through non-apoptotic caspase activity
Authors: Nair Sudershana , Baker Nicholas E.
Published: October 2023

Many cell fate decisions are determined transcriptionally. Accordingly, some fate specification is prevented by Inhibitor of DNA binding (Id) proteins that interfere with DNA binding by master regulatory transcription factors. We show that theDrosophilaId protein Extra macrochaetae (Emc) also affects developmental decisions by regulating caspase activity. Emc, which prevents proneural bHLH transcription factors from specifying neural cell fate, also prevents homodimerization of another bHLH protein, Daughterless (Da), and thereby maintains expression of theDeath-Associated Inhibitor of Apoptosis(diap1) gene. Accordingly, we found that multiple effects ofemcmutations on cell growth and on eye development were all caused by activation of caspases. These effects included acceleration of the morphogenetic furrow, failure of R7 photoreceptor cell specification, and delayed differentiation of non-neuronal cone cells. Withinemcmutant clones, Notch signaling was elevated in the morphogenetic furrow, increasing morphogenetic furrow speed. This was associated with caspase-dependent increase in levels of Delta protein, the transmembrane ligand for Notch. Posterior to the morphogenetic furrow, elevated Delta cis-inhibited Notch signaling that was required for R7 specification and cone cell differentiation. Growth inhibition ofemcmutant clones in wing imaginal discs also depended on caspases. Thus,emcmutations reveal the importance of restraining caspase activity even in non-apoptotic cells to prevent abnormal development, in theDrosophilaeye through effects on Notch signaling.
Carbon dioxide capture from air leading to bis[N-(5-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl-κN
2)carbamato-κO]copper(II) tetrahydrate
Authors: Sirenko Valerii Y. , Kuzevanova Iryna S. , Vynohradov Oleksandr S. , Naumova Dina D. , Shova Sergiu
Published: October 2023

A mononuclear square-planar CuII complex of (5-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)carbamate, [Cu(C5H6N3O2)2]·4H2O, was synthesized using a one-pot reaction from 5-methyl-3-pyrazolamine and copper(II) acetate in water under ambient conditions. The adsorption of carbon dioxide from air was facilitated by the addition of diethanolamine to the reaction mixture. While diethanolamine is not a component of the final product, it plays a pivotal role in the reaction by creating an alkaline environment, thereby enabling the adsorption of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The central copper(II) atom is in an (N2O2) square-planar coordination environment formed by two N atoms and two O atoms of two equivalent (5-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)carbamate ligands. Additionally, there are co-crystallized water molecules within the crystal structure of this compound. These co-crystallized water molecules are linked to the CuII mononuclear complex by O—H...O hydrogen bonds. According to Hirshfeld surface analysis, the most frequently observed weak intermolecular interactions are H...O/O...H (33.6%), H...C/C...H (11.3%) and H...N/N...H (9.0%) contacts.
Harnessing interestingness in supply chain management research: an empirical investigation and research agenda
Authors: El Baz Jamal , Jebli Fedwa , Gissel Andreas , Gourdin Kent
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The concept of interestingness has been investigated in several management disciplines but studies mobilizing such concept in supply chain management (SCM) to develop strategies for the field's advancement are relatively scarce. This research paper aims to investigate how SCM scholars rank attributes of interestingness and the strategies to harness interestingness in the field of SCM.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopt a mixed methods research design in which a survey on SCM researchers' ranking of interestingness' attributes and qualitative interviews with selected academics are conducted.

Findings

The findings highlight the importance given by SCM scholars to attributes such as rigor, relevance, novelty and communication and how they are interrelated. Also, other interestingness attributes are underlined by scholars during the qualitative interviews including inquisitiveness, engaging the reader, imaginativeness and entertainment. Furthermore, a research agenda to synthesize the propositions to develop interesting research is also proposed.

Research limitations/implications

Interestingness attributes such as rigor, relevance and novelty are discussed. Recommendations for interesting research are suggested which can be useful to scholars and journal editors. The findings of this research are also relevant for practitioners for a better understanding of academic/practice relationships to develop high impact collaboration.

Originality/value

This paper is among the few studies that focus on interestingness in SCM research from the perspective of scholars. In doing so, the authors seek to contribute to the classic debate in SCM field about “relevance-rigour” duality by providing a broader outlook based on interestingness and proposing a research agenda for prospective studies in the field.
Experiential marketing in the budget hotel: do Gen Y and Gen Z change the game?
Authors: Adiwijaya Karto , Nurmala N.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate if experiences can create satisfaction, loyalty and place attachment in the context of the budget hotel industry given growing proportion of Gen Y and Gen Z of budget travellers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses structural equation modelling-partial least squares approach to validate the path model. A total of 168 samples in Indonesia were collected using online consumer survey.

Findings

The findings show positive and significant effects of experience on memories, perceived value, satisfaction, loyalty and place attachment among budget hotel travellers.

Research limitations/implications

Some studies have investigated the importance of experiences in budget hotels marketing. This study contributes to this discussion by presenting that multiple dimensions of experience (sensing, feeling, thinking, acting and connecting) are significant drivers of satisfaction, loyalty and place attachment among Gen Y and Gen Z majority budget travellers.

Practical implications

From the findings, the authors suggest budget hotels to provide physical service environment that can enhance the visitor experience while visiting the hotel related to services relating (e.g. cozy room), acting (e.g. instagrammable spots), thinking (e.g. game centre) and sensing experience (e.g. music that soothes the soul) and social interaction (guest-to-staff interaction) that can enhance feeling service (e.g. welcoming staff).

Originality/value

Given the growing proportion of Gen Y and Gen Z among budget travellers and growing occupation of budget hotels, it become more essential to understand how customers perceive the services of budget hotels. This study shows that today customers perceive not only cost but also experiences as important factors that determine their satisfaction, loyalty and attachment towards budget hotels.
Time-series forecasting of road distress parameters using dynamic Bayesian belief networks
Authors: Philip Babitha , AlJassmi Hamad
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To proactively draw efficient maintenance plans, road agencies should be able to forecast main road distress parameters, such as cracking, rutting, deflection and International Roughness Index (IRI). Nonetheless, the behavior of those parameters throughout pavement life cycles is associated with high uncertainty, resulting from various interrelated factors that fluctuate over time. This study aims to propose the use of dynamic Bayesian belief networks for the development of time-series prediction models to probabilistically forecast road distress parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

While Bayesian belief network (BBN) has the merit of capturing uncertainty associated with variables in a domain, dynamic BBNs, in particular, are deemed ideal for forecasting road distress over time due to its Markovian and invariant transition probability properties. Four dynamic BBN models are developed to represent rutting, deflection, cracking and IRI, using pavement data collected from 32 major road sections in the United Arab Emirates between 2013 and 2019. Those models are based on several factors affecting pavement deterioration, which are classified into three categories traffic factors, environmental factors and road-specific factors.

Findings

The four developed performance prediction models achieved an overall precision and reliability rate of over 80%.

Originality/value

The proposed approach provides flexibility to illustrate road conditions under various scenarios, which is beneficial for pavement maintainers in obtaining a realistic representation of expected future road conditions, where maintenance efforts could be prioritized and optimized.
The impact of autonomy on sustainable performance in foreign subsidiaries: an empirical study from Chinese construction industry
Authors: Liu Junying , Wang Ying , Du Xueyao
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Foreign construction subsidiaries play an important role in the global construction market. How to establish and maintain long-term sustainable performance has attracted increased attention, but only a few studies have considered this issue. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between autonomy and the sustainable performance of subsidiaries and to provide support for their management control modes.

Design/methodology/approach

From an institutional logics perspective, empirical research using a questionnaire survey was conducted following the methodological framework of this study. Relevant data were collected from 106 experienced managers of foreign construction subsidiaries, and the hypotheses were tested through a regression model.

Findings

The results show that foreign construction subsidiaries have a high degree of operational autonomy, which tends to strengthen their embeddedness in the host country and improve their sustainable performance. However, the role of strategic autonomy is not found to be significant. The moderation results show that the positive impact between operational autonomy and external network embeddedness is strengthened by institutional distance. Institutional distance has no significant moderating impact on the relationship between strategic autonomy and external network embeddedness, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

Geographical limitations may exist as the survey is focused on the Chinese construction foreign subsidiaries. However, based on an institutional logics perspective, this study discusses the management control mode of foreign subsidiaries, which enriches the antecedents of sustainable performance and can provide an in-depth explanation of the effects of the organizational strategies of multinational construction enterprises.

Practical implications

This study provides beneficial information for the sustainable performance of foreign construction subsidiaries. It will provide detailed guidance to managers located in different institutional environments on optimally promoting the sustainable development of subsidiaries.

Originality/value

This study identifies autonomy as an important antecedent, making it one of the first studies investigating autonomy on the sustainable performance of foreign construction subsidiaries. The findings of this study can contribute to the construction subsidiaries' sustainable performance literature and provide novel, comprehensive knowledge for academia and practice.
Playful literacies and pedagogical priorities: digital games in the English classroom
Authors: Bacalja Alexander , Nash Brady L.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the characteristics of playful literacies in case study research examining digital games in secondary English classrooms. It analyzes how educators use play as a resource for meaning-making and the impacts of play on student learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a keyword search in relevant academic databases to identify articles within specified search parameters. This was followed by bibliographic branching to identify additional articles. Following the identification of 30 articles, two rounds of open coding were used to identify themes for analysis.

Findings

The literature revealed five types of playful pedagogical practices: single-player gameplay, turn-taking gameplay, multiplayer play, play-as-design and little or no gameplay. Discussion of these findings suggests that classroom play was a highly social activity across case studies. Furthermore, boundaries between types of play and their contributions to learning were blurred and often disrupted normative approaches to curriculum and teaching.

Originality/value

Given the novelty of replacing traditional texts with digital games in English classrooms, this study represents an important moment to pause and review the literature to date on a particular, understudied aspect of digital games in English curricula: their playfulness. This is especially important given the innovative ways in which digital play can shift thinking about meaning-making and narrative, two historically dominant concerns within the discipline of English.