bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex Differences in Prehospital Delays in Patients With ST‐Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Stehli Julia , Dinh Diem , Dagan Misha , Duffy Stephen J. , Brennan Angela , Smith Karen , Andrew Emily , Nehme Ziad , Reid Christopher M. , Lefkovits Jeffrey , Stub Dion , Zaman Sarah
Published: June 2021

Background

Women with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction experience delays in reperfusion compared with men with little data on each time component from symptom onset to reperfusion. This study analyzed sex discrepancies in patient delays, prehospital system delays, and hospital delays.

Methods and Results

Consecutive patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction treated with percutaneous coronary intervention across 30 hospitals in the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry (2013–2018) were analyzed. Data from the Ambulance Victoria Data warehouse were used to perform linkage to the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry for all patients transported via emergency medical services (EMS). The primary end point was EMS call‐to‐door time (prehospital system delay). Secondary end points included symptom‐to‐EMS call time (patient delay), door‐to‐device time (hospital delay), 30‐day mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events, and major bleeding. End points were analyzed according to sex and adjusted for age, comorbidities, cardiogenic shock, cardiac arrest, and symptom onset time. A total of 6330 (21% women) patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction were transported by EMS. Compared with men, women had longer adjusted geometric mean symptom‐to‐EMS call times (47.0 versus 44.0 minutes;
P
<0.001), EMS call‐to‐door times (58.1 versus 55.7 minutes;
P
<0.001), and door‐to‐device times (58.5 versus 54.9 minutes;
P
=0.006). Compared with men, women had higher 30‐day mortality (odds ratio [OR], 1.38; 95% CI, 1.06–1.79;
P
=0.02) and major bleeding (OR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.08–2.20;
P
=0.02).

Conclusions

Female patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction experienced excess delays in patient delays, prehospital system delays, and hospital delays, even after adjustment for confounders. Prehospital system and hospital delays resulted in an adjusted excess delay of 10 minutes compared with men.
Lipid-Lowering Therapy and Hemorrhagic Stroke Risk
Authors: Sanz-Cuesta Borja E. , Saver Jeffrey L.
Published: June 2021

Background and Purpose:

Statins were shown to increase hemorrhagic stroke (HS) in patients with a first cerebrovascular event in 2006 (SPARCL), likely due to off-target antithrombotic effects, but continued to sometimes be used in patients with elevated HS risk due to absence of alternative medications. Recently, the PCSK9Is (proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 inhibitors) have become available as a potent lipid-lowering class with potentially less hemorrhagic propensity.

Methods:

We performed a systematic comparative meta-analysis assessing HS rates across all completed statin and PCSK9I randomized clinical trials with treatment >3 months, following PRISMA guidelines. In addition to HS rates across all trials, causal relation was probed by evaluating for dose-response relationships by medication (low versus high medication dose/potency) and by presence and type of preceding brain vascular events at inception (none versus ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack versus HS).

Results:

The systematic review identified 36 statin randomized clinical trials (204 918 patients) and 5 PCSK9I randomized clinical trials (76 140 patients). Across all patient types and all medication doses/potencies, statins were associated with increased HS: relative risk 1.15,
P
=0.04; PCSK9Is were not (
P
=0.77). In the medication dose/potency analysis, higher dose/potency statins (7 trials, 62 204 patients) were associated with magnified HS risk: relative risk, 1.53;
P
=0.002; higher dose/potency PCSK9Is (1 trial, 27 564 patients) were not (
P
=0.99). In the type of index brain vascular injury analysis for statins (5 trials, 9772 patients), prior ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack was associated with a magnified risk of HS: relative risk, 1.43;
P
=0.04; and index intracerebral hemorrhage was associated with an extremely high effect estimate of risk of recurrent HS: hazard ratio, 4.06. For PCSK9Is, prior ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack (1 trial, 5337 patients) was not associated with increased HS risk (
P
=0.97).

Conclusions:

Statins increase the risk of HS in a medication dose- and type of index brain vascular injury-dependent manner; PCSK9Is do not increase HS risk. PCSK9Is may be a preferred lipid-lowering medication class in patients with elevated HS risk, including patients with prior HS.
Observation on the morphological and gonadal aspects of Cladonema radiatum (Class: Hydrozoa) from Tuticorin Bay, Southeast coast of India
Authors: RANJITH L. , KALIDAS C. , SARAVANAN R. , JAGADIS I. , PRABU D. LINGA , KAVITHA M. , BABU A. MATHAN , JOSHI K.K. , MANOJKUMAR P.P.
Published: June 2021

Studies on the hydrozoan fauna (Phylum: Cnidaria; Class: Hydrozoa) of the Indian waters during the 20th century were few in number (Nagale and Apte, 2013a, b). They originated in the early 1900s (Annandale, 1907; Ritchie, 1910, Thornely, 1916, Gravely, 1927), focussing on the taxonomy of hydroids in the 1960s along the southern coast, including Lakshadweep and Andaman Islands (Mammen, 1963, 1965a, b) and in the 1980s along the northern coast (Venugopalan & Wagh, 1986). Species of the hydrozoan family Cladonematidae (Anthoathecata; Capitata) include benthic, creeping and swimming hydroids comprising four genera viz., Cladonema, Eleutheria, Staurocladia and the nomen dubium Dendronema (Schuchert, 2021). Cladonema differs from other genera of Cladonematidae by the branched tentacles either with an adhesive structure or cnidocytes and having nematocysts in oral knobs (Ghory et al., 2020 & Farias et al., 2020). The taxonomy of Cladonema is uncertain and species in the genus have undergone several rounds of grouping and splitting. Gershwin & Zeidler (2008) gave a detailed account of 13 putative species of Cladonema. However, Schuchert (2021) considered six species to be valid viz., C. radiatum, C. californicum, C. myersi, C. novaezelandiae, C. pacificum and C. timmsii. Studies on the genus Cladonema from Indian waters are patchy, with a brief report of its occurrence among other hydroids (Sastry and Chandramohan, 1989; Santhakumari and Nair, 1999; Arun et al., 2018). Among these records from India, C. myersi was collected from an experimental aquarium with seawater from an unknown location (Prasad, 1961). The present study documents the occurrence and describes the morphology and gonadal features of Cladonema radiatum from Tuticorin Bay, Gulf of Mannar, Southeast coast of India.
Revision of the Palearctic Cicindela campestris species complex—Part 1: On the taxonomy, identification and ecology of Cicindela herbacea Klug, 1832 and Cicindela javetii Chaudoir, 1861 (Coleoptera, Cicindelidae)
Authors: GEBERT JÖRG , MATALIN ANDREY V. , BOETZL FABIAN A.
Published: June 2021

We revise the taxonomically problematic Palearctic Cicindela campestris species complex, a group of green tiger beetle species, using an integrative approach combining morphology, morphometry and biogeography. In this first part, an identification key to all subgroups of these green tiger beetles (Cicindela herbacea-subgroup, Cicindela javetii-subgroup, Cicindela desertorum-subgroup, Cicindela campestris-subgroup, Cicindela turkestanica-subgroup and Cicindela asiatica-subgroup) based on large series taken from private and museum collections as well as on literature sources is provided and diagnostic characters are illustrated by detailed photographs. The Cicindela herbacea- and Cicindela javetii-subgroups are revised and illustrated and identification keys as well as distribution maps for both are given. Four new synonyms are established: Cicindela herbacea herbacea Klug, 1832 = Cicindela herbacea aleppensis Deuve, 2012, syn. n.; Cicindela herbacea turkestanicoides W. Horn, 1938 = Cicindela herbacea perreaui Deuve, 1987, syn. n. = Cicindela herbacea colasi Deuve, 2011, syn. n.; Cicindela javetii javetii Chaudoir, 1861 = Cicindela thughurica Franzen, 2007, syn. n.
Synopsis of Lestes from Brazil with description of Lestes demarcoi sp. nov. (Zygoptera: Lestidae)
Authors: LENCIONI F.A.A. , NEISS U.G. , DUTRA S.L. , FURIERI K.S. , JUEN L. , BATISTA J.D. , VILELA DIOGO S.
Published: June 2021

The Brazilian fauna of Lestidae contains two genera (Archilestes Selys, 1862 and Lestes Leach in Brewster, 1815) with 14 species, many of which are poorly defined and/or known only by primary literature. To improve the knowledge of the Brazilian species of the genus Lestes we examined 97 specimens pertaining to 11 of the 13 described species. Additionally, a new species is described here in honor to Prof. Dr. Paulo De Marco Júnior: Lestes demarcoi (Holotype and Allotype: Brazil: Amazonas, Manaus, Reserva Adolpho Ducke, Acará trail, 02º55’46” S & 59º58’22” W, 62 m, 13.iv.2009, collected in tandem, U.G. Neiss leg. and deposited in FAAL).

                Diagnostic illustrations of all species are provided. Color photographs of live individuals of Lestes dichrostigma Calvert, 1909, Lestes forficula Rambur, 1842 and Lestes paulistus Calvert, 1909 are also presented.
A new species of Dudgeodes Sartori, 2008 (Ephemeroptera: Teloganodidae) from Megamalai hills of southern Western Ghats, India
Authors: SRINIVASAN PANDIARAJAN , SIVARUBAN T. , BARATHY S. , ISACK RAJASEKARAN
Published: June 2021

Dudgeodes sartorii sp. nov. is described based on nymphs from the Megamalai hills of Western Ghats, Southern India. The nymph of Dudgeodes sartorii sp. nov. can be distinguished from other Indian species of Dudgeodes by i) prothorax with two rounded tubercles; (ii) outer margin of mesothorax with simple setae; (iii) distinct maculae in the distal region of femora; (iv) transverse row of setae on fore femora narrower with blunt apex and (v) dark brownish band on the 5th segment of cerci
A new species of Palpita Hübner from Laos (Lepidoptera, Crambidae, Spilomelinae)
Authors: KO JAE-HO , BAYARSAIKHAN ULZIIJARGAL , LEE TAK-GI , CHA YEONG-BIN , LEE JONG KOO , BAE YANG-SEOP
Published: June 2021

A new species of the genus Palpita Hübner is described from Laos, which is very close to P. inusitata (Butler, 1879) found in Japan.
Janus Kinase/Signal Converters, and the Transcriptional Activator Signaling Pathway Promotes Lung Cancer Through Increasing M2 Macrophage
Authors: Zhan Xinliang , Wang Yan , Yang Jing
Published: June 2021

Accumulating evidence highlights the salient function of JAK/STAT signaling pathway in tumorigenesis and development. But the mechanism of JAK/STAT signaling in lung cancer remains elusive. This study assessed the impact of JAK/STAT on lung tumorigenesis and its interaction with microenvironment.
Mouse model of primary lung cancer was established and then treated with JAK/STAT inhibitor. Immunofluorescence was performed to analyze fluorescent labels. Transwell assay determined the cell migration ability, and Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence to detect the expression
of JAK/STAT key proteins. Cell proliferation was measured by Kit-8 and colony formation. JAK/STAT key proteins were upregulated in lung cancer models. Inhibition of JAK/STAT led to a decrease in proliferative, migratory and invasive capability of lung cancer cells and macrophages from bone
marrow and spleen. The cell invasion ability in the bone marrow and the proliferation of macrophages in the treatment group was weakened. When co-cultured with the treated macrophages, the proliferation of LLC1 cells was inhibited. Furthermore, in vitro flow cytometry indicated that
JAK/STAT affected lung cancer progression by affecting the polarization of M1/M2 macrophages. Taken altogether, JAK/STAT signal enhances M2 macrophage expression and promotes lung cancer progression.
Silencing hsa_circ_0007841 Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Promotes Cell Apoptosis via Regulating miR-507 in Multiple Myeloma Cells
Authors: Liu Jie , Wang Yi
Published: June 2021

Recently study has indicated that hsa_circ_0007841 is up-regulated in patients with multiple myeloma and may act as an important biomarker in Multiple myeloma. However, the mechanisms and effects of hsa_circ_0007841 remain unclear and were firstly investigated herein. The gene expression level was detected via PCR assay. The CCK-8 assay was performed to measure the cell viability. The cell proliferation capacity was evaluated via colony formation assay. The protein express level was detected by western blot and cell apoptosis via flow cytometry. The target of hsa_circ_0007841 was predicted via CircInteractome online tool and validated by luciferase reporter assay. Hsa_circ_0007841 was overexpressed and miR-507 was poorly expressed in multiple myeloma cells. Silencing hsa_circ_0007841 has anti-proliferation and pro-apoptosis effects in multiple myeloma cells. MiR-507 was found to be the target of hsa_circ_0007841. Inhibition of miR-507 relieved the effects of silencing hsa_circ_0007841 in myeloma cells. Silencing hsa_circ_0007841 suppressed cellular proliferative ability and enhanced cell apoptosis rate via targeting and up-regulating miRNA-507 in multiple myeloma cells.
MicroRNA-145-5p Protects Human Melanocytes Against Oxidative Damage by Targeting Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 2 (TRPM2)
Authors: Huang Bo , Sun Xuecheng , Xu Aie
Published: June 2021

Background: Oxidative stress was reported to be involved in the progression of vitiligo. microRNAs (miRNAs) have been confirmed to display critical roles in vitiligo. In this study, we conjectured that miR-145-5p might be related to the development of vitiligo by regulating the
key genes expression in melanocytes. Methods: H2O2 was used to induce the dysfunction of melanocytes. The levels of TRPM2 and miR-145-5p in H2O2-induced human primary melanocytes were assessed using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase
chain reaction (RT-qPCR). TargetScan and Dual luciferase reporter gene assay were conducted to confirm the correlation between miR-145-5p and TRPM2. Cell viability and apoptosis were determined using MTT and Flow cytometry analysis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidant enzymes superoxide
dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were determined using specific assay kits. The levels of cleaved caspase-3 and pro-Caspase3 were measure by western blotting. Results: TRPM2 was upregulated while miR-145-5p was downregulated in H2O2-induced human primary melanocytes.
Dual luciferase reporter assay confirmed that TRPM2 was a target gene of miR-145-5p. miR-145-5p mimic transfection significantly increased cell viability and inhibited cell apoptosis in H2O2-treated melanocytes. In addition, overexpression of miR-145-5p enhanced the antioxidant
activity of SOD and CAT, and decreased intracellular ROS accumulation. Notably, these findings were abolished by TRPM2-plasmid. Conclusions: Taken together, our study demonstrated that oxidative stress induced up-regulation of TRPM2 and down-regulation of miR-145-5p in melanocytes.
In addition, overexpression of miR-145-5p alleviated melanocytes destruction via targeting TRPM2. These results indicated that miR-145-5p might serve as a potential target for anti-oxidative therapy in vitiligo.
Effects of microRNA-103 on the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Pancreatic Cancer Cells via Targeting Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog Deleted on Chromosome Ten (PTEN) and Activating Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase/A Serine/Threonine Kinase (PI3K/Akt) Signaling Pathway
Authors: Hai Xiaoyu , Zhao Guozhong , Li Zhaolong , Wu Junli , Xu Xiangzhao , Yang Yaowen
Published: June 2021

Objective: To investigate whether micro ribonucleic acid (miR)-103 affects pancreatic cancer (PaCa) cells via PTEN-activated PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Methods: Differences in miR-103 expression in 35 pairs of PaCa tissues and cell lines (SW1990 and PATU8988S) were detected
by RT-qPCR. miR-103 inhibitor was transfected into PaCa PATU8988S cell followed by analysis of proliferation and apoptosis of PaCa cells by MTT assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Results: MiR-103 exhibited a significantly high expression in PaCa tissues and cell lines (p
< 0.05). Besides, the exogenous inhibition of miR-103 expression in PATU8988S cells significantly inhibited cell proliferation and migration but increased apoptosis activity (p < 0.05). According to the prediction of TargetScan biological database, miR-103 could bind PTEN 3′
untranslated region (3′UTR) and miR-103 was confirmed to suppress PTEN expression in a targeted way (p<0.05). Furthermore, down-regulation of PTEN activated PI3K/Akt signaling to affect the proliferation and apoptosis of PaCa cells (p < 0.05 or p <0.01). Conclusion:
MiR-103 displays a significantly increased expression in PaCa cells and targets PTEN to activate PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, thus promoting malignant phenotype formation.
The Biological Effects of Forkhead Box Protein A2 (FOXA2) on Cervical Cancer Cells by Regulating Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN)
Authors: Lou Hangfang , Bi Xiaochen
Published: June 2021

The pathogenesis of cervical cancer is complex and FOX family is abnormally expressed in several diseases. FOXA2’s role in cervical cancer remains unclear. FOXA2 level in cervical cancer and adjacent normal tissues was detected. Cervical cancer Hela cells were divided into control group, FOXA2 group and FOXA2 siRNA group followed by analysis of FOXA2 level by Real time PCR and western blot, cell survival by MTT assay, cell migration and invasion, and PTEN expression by western blot. The cells were divided into NC group, FOXA2 group and FOXA2+PTEN inhibitor group followed by analysis of cell behaviors by flow cytometry and PTEN expression by western blot. FOXA2 was significantly downregulated in cancer tissues compared with adjacent tissues (P<0.05) and associated with tumor size and FIGO stage (P<0.05), but not with vascular invasion, pathological grade and lymph node metastasis. Overexpression of FOXA2 inhibited Hela cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and increased PTEN expression (P<0.05), which were all significantly reversed after inhibition of FOXA2 (P<0.05). The addition of PTEN inhibitor to Hela cells overexpressing FOXA2 reversed the effect of FOXA2 on Hela cells and down-regulated PTEN expression (P<0.05). FOXA2 is downregulated in cervical cancer, which is related to tumor size and FIGO stage. Overexpression of FOXA2 inhibits cell behaviors by regulating PTEN.
Estimating Probabilities of Passing for Examinees With Incomplete Data in Mastery Tests
Authors: Sinharay Sandip
Published: June 2021

Administrative problems such as computer malfunction and power outage occasionally lead to missing item scores and hence to incomplete data on mastery tests such as the AP and U.S. Medical Licensing examinations. Investigators are often interested in estimating the probabilities of passing of the examinees with incomplete data on mastery tests. However, there is a lack of research on this estimation problem. The goal of this article is to suggest two new approaches—one each based on classical test theory and item response theory—for estimating the probabilities of passing of the examinees with incomplete data on mastery tests. The two approaches are demonstrated to have high accuracy and negligible misclassification rates.
The current pandemic, a complex emergency? Mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on highly vulnerable communities in Guatemala
Authors: Alonzo Dana , Popescu Marciana , Zubaroglu-Ioannides Pinar
Published: June 2021

Background:

On March 5th, Guatemala declared a ‘State of Calamity’ in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and strict lockdown measures were initiated. The psychological consequences of these measures are yet to be fully understood. There is limited research on the psychological impact of the virus in the general population, and even less focused on Latin America and high-risk communities characterized by poverty, limited mental health resources, and high rates of stigma around mental illness. The goal of this study is to examine the psychological impact of COVID-19 across several highly vulnerable districts in Guatemala.

Methods:

A semi-structured phone interview was conducted of 295 individuals in multiple districts in Guatemala City to assess self-perceived mental health consequences related to the pandemic. Sociodemographic, medical, and mental health data were collected. Chisquares and t-tests used for categorical and continuous variables, as appropriate, to describe the sample. Binary logistic regressions were estimated to examine associations between sociodemographic characteristics and mental health symptoms (anxiety, stress, depression, burnout, escalation of pre-existing mental health symptoms, and a sense of safety).

Results:

The results indicate high levels of anxiety and stress in all target communities. Significant differences based on gender, age, and the number of children in the household were identified: women and older adults experience higher rates of stress and anxiety associated with the pandemic; while families with greater number of children experience higher levels of burnout.

Conclusion:

Contextualizing the current pandemic as a complex emergency can help inform further studies focusing on socioeconomic challenges and higher vulnerabilities as preconditions affecting the impact of the pandemic on mental health. Given the limited available resources for mental health care in Guatemala, informal networks of care may play an important role in meeting the needs of those individuals experiencing increased psychological distress resulting from the pandemic.
Psychological Predictors for Watching Television: The Role of Racial Representation
Authors: Archer Jennifer , Rackley Kadie R. , Broyles Sookram Susan , Nguyen Hien , Awad Germine H.
Published: June 2021

This study explored psychological predictors that may impact viewers’ decision to watch television shows on the basis of perceived racial or ethnic representation. 1998 undergraduate students selected from a list of motivations for watching television that included race-specific motivations such as “a character is of my race/ethnicity.” Participants also completed attitudinal measures of colorblind racial ideology, social dominance orientation, ethnic identity, and ethnic stigma consciousness. Analysis revealed that prejudicial beliefs predicted less salience for racial representation when making choices about television watching, while deeper connection to one’s ethnic group predicted greater salience for representation when making these choices.
Aspiration and Opportunity: First-Generation Immigrants and Refugees at Community College
Authors: Leo Aaron
Published: June 2021

Objective:

This article explores the experiences of 32 first-generation immigrant and refugee students as they transition into and out of community college. The challenges students face and the resources on which they draw in their educational pursuits are viewed through Bourdieu’s theory of cultural capital.

Method:

This project utilizes an applied ethnographic approach that primarily elicited participant-observation and interview data.

Results:

Findings demonstrate that prospective community college students articulated uncertainty about the college process and concern over the quality of community colleges. Current and former community college students validated these concerns as they described their struggles to overcome both in- and out-of-school challenges. In many cases, such obstacles resulted in the leveling of previously high aspirations.

Contribution:

Although the growing number of immigrant and refugee students in the United States are disproportionately represented at community colleges, little is known about their experiences in these institutions. This article adds to our understanding of immigrant and refugee students’ experiences in community colleges through their own words.
Online identification method for a system with unknown varying time-delay and parameter
Authors: Hu Yifei , Wu Jinbo
Published: June 2021

An online identification method that can simultaneously estimate the unknown system parameter and the unknown time-delay is proposed. Firstly, with the help of Lagrange mean value theorem, the system with time-delay can be transformed into two terms that can be identified by modified least-square algorithm and one term that represents an approximate error. Then, a modified least-square algorithm is introduced to estimate all the unknown parameters in case of external disturbances. Additionally, an restrain term are added in the covariance matrix to enhance the robustness to deal with the approximate error which is related to the estimated error of system parameter and time-delay. Also, the boundedness of the estimation error is guaranteed via Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, the effectivity of the proposed method is verified by simulations results.
Genetic Causes of Hearing Loss in a Large Cohort of Cochlear Implant Recipients
Authors: Seligman Kristen L. , Shearer A. Eliot , Frees Kathy , Nishimura Carla , Kolbe Diana , Dunn Camille , Hansen Marlan R. , Gantz Bruce J. , Smith Richard J. H.
Published: June 2021

Understanding genetic causes of hearing loss can determine the pattern and course of a patient’s hearing loss and may also predict outcomes after cochlear implantation. Our goal in this study was to evaluate genetic causes of hearing loss in a large cohort of adults and children with cochlear implants. We performed comprehensive genetic testing on all patients undergoing cochlear implantation. Of the 459 patients included in the study, 128 (28%) had positive genetic testing. In total, 44 genes were identified as causative. The top 5 genes implicated were GJB2 (20, 16%), TMPRSS3 (13, 10%), SLC26A4 (10, 8%), MYO7A (9, 7%), and MT‐RNR1 (7, 5%). Pediatric patients had a higher diagnostic rate. This study lays the groundwork for future studies evaluating the relationship between genetic variation and cochlear implant performance.
Comparison of antinuclear antibody profiles obtained using line immunoassay and fluorescence enzyme immunoassay
Authors: Jang Jaehyeok , Kim Sinyoung , Kim Hyon-Suk , Lee Kyung-A , Park Jungyong , Park Younhee
Published: June 2021

Objective

LIA-ANA-Profile-17S is a multiplex line immunoassay that simultaneously detects 17 antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) against extractable nuclear antigens (ENAs). We evaluated the utility of LIA-ANA-Profile-17S as a supplement to ANA indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) and EliA ENA (a fluorescence enzyme immunoassay) for diagnosis of ANA-associated rheumatic diseases.

Methods

Sera were collected from 245 patients referred for an ANA IIF test. LIA-ANA-Profile-17S results were compared with those of EliA ENA. The kappa coefficients, agreement rates, and diagnostic performance of these tests were assessed for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren’s syndrome (SjS).

Results

We observed almost perfect interassay agreement for antibodies against Ro52/Ro60, CENP-B, and Scl-70 (kappa = 0.91, 0.97, and 1.00, respectively); strong agreement for anti-SS-B/La antibody (kappa = 0.81); and relatively low agreement for other antibodies, including those against dsDNA, Sm, RNP, and Jo-1. For SLE diagnosis, LIA-ANA-Profile-17S showed lower sensitivity and similar specificity compared with EliA ENA. The sensitivity and specificity of these two assays were similar for SjS diagnosis.

Conclusions

The specificity of LIA-ANA-Profile-17S was enhanced when combined with ANA IIF and was comparable with that of EliA ENA. LIA-ANA-Profile-17S showed relatively good agreement with EliA ENA. In combination with ANA IIF, these assays showed enhanced diagnostic performance.
Reduction in post-spinal cord injury spasticity by combination of peripheral nerve grafting and acidic fibroblast growth factor infusion in monkeys
Authors: Sun Wei-Ming , Ma Chao-Lin , Xu Jiang , He Ji-Ping
Published: June 2021

Objective

Spasticity is a frequent complication after spinal cord injury (SCI), but the existing therapies provide only limited relief and are associated with adverse reactions. Therefore, we aimed to develop a novel strategy to ameliorate the spasticity induced by SCI.

Methods

This nonrandomized controlled study used a repeated measurement design. The study involved four monkeys, two of which served as controls and only underwent spinal cord hemisection surgery at the T8 spine level. The other two monkeys underwent transplantation of sural nerve segments into the injured sites and long-term infusion of acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF). All monkeys received postoperative exercise training and therapy.

Results

The combined therapy substantially reduced the spasticity in leg muscle tone, patella tendon reflex, and fanning of toes. Although all monkeys showed spontaneous recovery of function over time, the recovery in the controls reached a plateau and started to decline after 11 weeks.

Conclusions

The combination of peripheral nerve grafting and aFGF infusion may serve as a complementary approach to reduce the signs of spasticity in patients with SCI.
Treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures (Neer type IIb): a modified system using a miniature locking plate with a single button
Authors: Ying Hua , Wang Jihuan , Sun Yuehua , Dai Kerong , Yu Chao , Yang Fei
Published: June 2021

Distal clavicle fractures are common in patients with shoulder injuries. We retrospectively evaluated the clinical outcomes of a novel fixation technique using a miniature locking plate with a single button in patients with distal clavicle fractures associated with coracoclavicular ligament disruption. The study involved seven patients with distal clavicle fractures with a follow-up period of 12 months. All patients were diagnosed with type IIb fractures according to the Neer classification. The distal clavicle fracture was fixed with a miniature locking plate, and the coracoclavicular ligaments were reconstructed using a single button. Functional outcomes were assessed at the final follow-up visit. At the 1-year follow-up, all patients had achieved radiographic union. There were no cases of nonunion or osteolysis. The mean Constant score at the final follow-up was 88 ± 5.13 (range, 78–93); the mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 19.17 ± 7.70 (range, 11.67–25); and the mean University of California Los Angeles score was 30 ± 2.52 (range, 25–33). In summary, internal fixation using a miniature locking plate and coracoclavicular reconstruction with a single button is a reliable surgical technique for restoring stability in patients with Neer type IIb distal clavicle fractures.
Remimazolam: A Novel Option for Procedural Sedation in High Risk Patients
Authors: Pantos Megan M. , Kennedy Daniel R. , Nemec Eric C.
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this drug review was to explore the safety and efficacy of the newly approved benzodiazepine, remimazolam, in order to evaluate its place in therapy.

Remimazolam has a faster onset of action and recovery time than midazolam when given as single IV doses. Additionally, it has no known CYP450 interactions that would contribute to drug-drug interactions. Patients with severe hepatic impairment may require dose titration as well as the elderly who should be closely monitored. Although remimazolam vials should be protected from light and must be reconstituted immediately before use, the reconstituted vial may be stored for later use at room temperature for up to 8 hours. Remimazolam is more expensive than current options used in practice, as such individual institutional formulary and provider preference will require review to see if its advantages are worth the additional cost and to determine its place in therapy.

Conclusion:

Remimazolam is a novel option when choosing a benzodiazepine for procedural sedation that has pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic advantages when compared to other commonly prescribed sedatives. Remimazolam has proved superior to midazolam when analyzing drug-drug interactions, onset, and time to alertness. Remimazolam also has a shorter elimination half-life and decreased volume of distribution when compared to midazolam.
Effect of electrospinning parameters on production of polyvinyl alcohol/polylactic acid nanofiber using a mutual solvent
Authors: Fatahian Reyhaneh , Mirjalili Mohammad , Khajavi Ramin , Rahimi Mohammad Karim , Nasirizadeh Navid
Published: June 2021

Differences in the properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly (lactic acid) (PLA) polymers have attracted much attention today. In this research, the aim is to produce PVA/PLA nanofibers with hydrophilicity and good mechanical properties using a mutual solvent. In this regard, the ability to produce PVA/PLA nanofibers using a mutual solvent was evaluated. The effect of electrospinning parameters on the morphology of nanofibers, hydrophilicity of nanofibers produced by measuring water absorption and contact angle as well as mechanical properties of nanofibers were considered. The results obtained from scanning electron microscopy analyses of the structure of these fibers showed that PVA had the highest viscosity of 5.64 Pa.s and the highest diameter of 260 nm, which decreased the thickness of the nanofibers with increasing PLA. And pure PLA had the lowest mean diameter of 76 nm. In the consideration of the mechanical properties of the prepared nanofibers, it was found that the combination of PLA and PVA nanofibers will lead to overlap the properties of each other and the creation of desirable mechanical properties. Moreover, in the investigation of water absorption and contact angle, it was concluded that the PVA/PLA was fully absorbed in less than 200 seconds and the samples have a contact angle of less than 52°. Finally, it was found that the average diameter of the produced nanofibers was decreased by increasing the voltage and the needle tip to collector distance by considering the PVA/PLA samples with a ratio of 50:50.
Bankruptcy Regulation and Self-Employment Entry: The Moderating Roles of Income Share, Parenthood, and Hybrid Entrepreneurship
Authors: Schulz Matthias , Schwens Christian , Fisch Christian
Published: June 2021

We investigate how individual factors moderate the impact of bankruptcy exemption levels—that is, the amount of wealth individuals can keep in case of bankruptcy—on entry into self-employment. Conceptually, we combine Prospect Theory’s axiom of diminishing sensitivity with insights from research on entrepreneurial failure. We hypothesize that individuals who face higher financial, social, or psychological costs because of bankruptcy will be less sensitive to higher exemption levels than will those who face lower costs across these dimensions. Our empirical results, which are based on a quasi-natural experiment in the United States, support our theoretical predictions.
A Psychoeducational Group Intervention for Nurses: Rationale, Theoretical Framework, and Development
Authors: Bailey Amanda K. , Sawyer Amanda T. , Robinson Patricia Stearnes
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVE

Nursing is a demanding profession with constant stressors, which makes nurses vulnerable to the detrimental effects of high stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue. There is a need for a multidimensional group intervention facilitated by a licensed mental health professional to improve mental health and well-being in nurses. An intervention called RISE, which is an acronym for resilience, insight, self-compassion, and empowerment, was developed to promote self-care, protect against burnout, and improve indicators of well-being among nurses. We explain the rationale, theoretical framework, and development of RISE.

METHODS

RISE is based on an integrative theoretical framework of mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. It consists of eight psychoeducational group sessions with topics related to the four RISE themes of resilience, insight, self-compassion, and empowerment.

RESULTS

RISE is a contribution to the literature on well-being interventions for nurses. It will further the understanding of effective interventions to mediate the detrimental effects of stress and burnout in nursing and to improve the mental health and well-being of nurses amid the complex interplay of factors at the individual, unit, and organizational levels.

CONCLUSIONS

As an approach that combines education with therapeutic process and support to improve coping and well-being inside and outside of the workplace, RISE addresses the underlying causes and effects of high stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue.
A Preliminary Analysis of Sexual Recidivism and Predictive Validity of the Static-99R in Men Discharged From State Hospitals Pursuant to California’s Sexually Violent Predator Act
Authors: Azizian Allen , Olver Mark E. , Rokop James , D’Orazio Deirdre M.
Published: June 2021

We examined the recidivism rates and the predictive validity of the Static-99R in 335 men who were detained or civilly committed and released from California State Hospitals pursuant to the Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) Act, and followed up for approximately 21 years from date of hospital admission. In all, 8.7% were arrested or convicted for a new sexual offense during the total follow-up ( N = 335) and 7.8% over a fixed 5-year follow-up ( n = 205). The Static-99R demonstrated small in magnitude discrimination for sexual, violent, and general recidivism (area under the curve [AUC]/C = .56 to .63). Calibration analyses, conducted through expected/observed (E/O) index, demonstrated that the Static-99R overpredicted sexual recidivism, irrespective of whether the Routine or High Risk/Need norms were used. Observed recidivism rates were lower than predicted by Static-99R scores and may be the result of the sample’s older age at release, lengthy hospitalization, or other factors.
Exploring ideas generation through a shared artifact: The case of GasTec
Authors: Pattinson Steven , Lassalle Paul , Heinonen Jarna , Scott Jonathan M , Preece David
Published: June 2021

This case focuses on ideas generation in GasTec, a science-based small business specializing in the design and manufacture of gas sensors and analyzers. The case examines how employees’ interaction with a shared boundary object (The “Imagineering Wall”) contributed to the generation of innovative new ideas. The case shows how the Wall generated discussion and participation among employees, leading to enhanced absorption of internal and external knowledge. Interacting with the Wall exemplifies how both bottom-up processes through which employees shared knowledge internally, and top-down processes that supported formalized, managerial-led, external collaborations contribute to ideas generation and innovation. The case also highlights the current dilemma of GasTec’s Managing Director in deciding whether to continue to support the development of the Wall as part of its innovation strategy.
Microbiota or placebo after antimicrobial therapy for recurrent Clostridioides difficile at home: A clinical trial with novel home-based enrollment
Authors: Drekonja Dimitri M , Shaukat Aasma , Zhang Jane H , Reinink Andrew R , Nugent Sean , Dominitz Jason A , Davis-Karim Anne , Gerding Dale N , Kyriakides Tassos C
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Clostridiodes difficile infection is the leading cause of infectious diarrhea in the United States, with substantial morbidity and mortality. Recurrent infection is especially challenging, with each recurrence increasing the likelihood of a successive recurrence, leading to cycles of prolonged symptoms, frequent antimicrobial use, and decreased quality of life. Fecal microbiota transplantation to prevent recurrent infection is a promising intervention with a large effect size in observational studies, but with conflicting results from randomized controlled trials. We are conducting a Veterans Affairs-wide randomized controlled trial utilizing centralized case identification, with enrollment and fecal microbiota transplant administration occurring at the participant’s home. This type of trial design significantly improves trial efficiency, greatly decreases trial cost, increases consistency of trial administration, and most importantly makes nationwide clinical trials in less-common diseases possible.

Methods:

This is a randomized comparison of capsule-delivered fecal microbiota transplant for the prevention of recurrent Clostridiodes difficile infection, administered after successful initial treatment of recurrent C. difficile infection with standard therapy. The primary endpoint is the incidence of recurrent C. difficile infection or death. Cases are identified by searching the Veterans Affairs Corporate Data Warehouse, with central study coordinators then reaching out to potential participants. Individuals meeting inclusion criteria and interested in participation are scheduled for in-home consent, randomization, and capsule administration, followed by telephone follow-up for 6 months. To mitigate risks of COVID-19, enrollment via video visits has been implemented.

Results:

A total of 102 participants have been enrolled through January 2021. Centralized case identification and in-home enrollment has facilitated enrollment from 34 unique states, with 38% being from rural or highly rural areas.

Discussion:

Centralized case identification and in-home enrollment is a feasible and innovative method of conducting randomized controlled trials in the Veterans Affairs system, improving access to clinical research for populations who may have difficulty engaging with the traditional model of clinical trials where enrollment is based at large hospitals in major metropolitan areas.
Remembering terrorist attacks: Evolution over time
Authors: Manzanero Antonio L , Vallet Rocío , Escorial Sergio , Fernández Juan , de Vicente Francisco , Guarch-Rubio Marta , Vara Alba
Published: June 2021

The present study aims to analyse the effect of the passage of time on the phenomenological characteristics of the memory of a traumatic event of social relevance. The terrorist attack that took place in Barcelona (Spain) in August 2017 was taken as the traumatic event. A priori, this event meets the criteria to produce a flashbulb memory (level of surprise, consequentiality and emotional activation). A total of 364 memories from different individuals (78% women and a mean age of 20 years) were studied at five different time points, between September 2017 and December 2018, using the CCFRA/PQAM questionnaire. The results show that the memories only comply with the characteristics usually associated with flashbulb memories in the medium term (about 7 months after the events). These characteristics do not appear in a clear way immediately and are lost just over a year after the event. Therefore, the passage of time seems to have a great influence on the characteristics of memories of violent events, such as terrorist attacks. However, this influence may depend more on the relevance given to the event than on the elapsed time, as it is the relevance that determines the number of subsequent recalls, influencing the maintenance of the memory.
Absence of transmission of NDM and OXA-48 carbapenemase genes in a chronic care unit of a long-term care facility
Authors: Boodman Carl , Gibson Natalie , Conrod Davenna , Turenne Christine Y , Alexander David C , Taubes Tatyana , Lucha Ana , Boyd David A , Mataseje Laura F , Mulvey Michael , Karlowsky James A , Blake Molly , Embil John M
Published: June 2021

Infection prevention and control measures are used to contain outbreaks of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae. We report the absence of transmission of Klebsiella pneumoniae carrying New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase and oxacillinase-48 genes among 19 screened contacts of an index case after 14 months of routine practices in a long-term care facility.
Pulmonary hypertension associated with neurofibromatosis type 2
Authors: Taniguchi Hirohisa , Takashima Tomoya , Tu Ly , Thuillet Raphaël , Furukawa Asuka , Furukawa Yoshiko , Kawamura Akio , Humbert Marc , Guignabert Christophe , Tamura Yuichi
Published: June 2021

Although precapillary pulmonary hypertension is a rare but severe complication of patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), its association with NF2 remains unknown. Herein, we report a case of a 44‐year‐old woman who was initially diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and treated with pulmonary arterial hypertension‐specific combination therapy. However, a careful assessment for a relevant family history of the disease and genetic testing reveal that this patient had a mutation in the NF2 gene. Using immunofluorescence and Western blotting, we demonstrated a decrease in endothelial NF2 protein in lungs from idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension patients compared to control lungs, suggesting a potential role of NF2 in pulmonary arterial hypertension development. To our knowledge, this is the first time that precapillary pulmonary hypertension has been described in a patient with NF2. The altered endothelial NF2 expression pattern in pulmonary arterial hypertension lungs should stimulate work to better understand how NF2 is contributing to the pulmonary vascular remodelling associated to these severe life‐threatening conditions.
The association between experiencing police arrest and suicide ideation among emerging young adults: Does race matter?
Authors: Ahuja Manik , Records Kathie , Haeny Angela M , Gavares Eleni M , Mamudu Hadii M
Published: June 2021

The objective of the study was to examine the association between lifetime arrest and marijuana-related first arrest with past-year suicide ideation among Black and White people. We used data from Wave-IV (2008–2009; N = 5114) of the publicly available National Adolescent Health Study (Add Health) data. A total of 4313 Non-Hispanic Black and White participants were selected for this study. Logistic regression was used to assess whether lifetime arrest and marijuana-related arrests were associated with past year suicide. Overall, 28.8% of the sample reported lifetime arrest, 6.3% reported lifetime suicide ideation, and 3.7% reported marijuana-related arrest. A significantly higher percentage of Black people (32.3%) in comparison to White people (27.4%) reported lifetime arrest (χ2 = 9.91; p < 0.001; df = 1). Among Black people, lifetime arrest (AOR = 2.98; 95% CI, 1.66–5.35; p < 0.001) and marijuana-related arrest (AOR = 4.09; 95% CI, 1.47–11.35; p < 0.001) were both associated with lifetime suicide ideation. Given the rate of death by suicide among Black people has been rising for two decades, further efforts are needed to educate and inform key stakeholders including law enforcement and policymakers regarding racial disparities in arrests, which may contribute to reducing risk for death by suicide among Black people.
Beyond Receptivity: Exploring the Role of Identity in Educators’ Orientation Toward Newcomers in a New Immigrant Destination
Authors: Penn Daphne M.
Published: June 2021

Research on education in new immigrant destinations has highlighted the importance of educators’ professional missions and expertise in shaping their receptivity toward newcomers. Less attention has been given to how educators’ social identities, especially in relation to newcomers, influence how they perceive their role in serving the population. Drawing on the theory of representative bureaucracy, this qualitative study explores how educators’ social identities shaped their identification with and orientation toward addressing the needs of immigrant-origin English learners in one new-destination high school. Results indicate that educators framed their orientation toward serving the population as a moral imperative, a professional responsibility, or a legal obligation. These orientations influenced how educators perceived their role in addressing newcomers’ needs. This study offers implications for educational practice and provides avenues for future research on education in new immigrant destinations.