bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between morphological parameters and ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm: A propensity score-matched, single center, case-control study
Authors: Ma Chencheng , Mao Lei , Zhang Guangjian , Shen Yuqi , Chang Hanxiao , Li Zheng , Lu Hua
Published: June 2022

Background

To identify an association between morphological parameters and the rupture risk of anterior communicating artery (ACoA) aneurysms using propensity score matching (PSM).

Methods

Data for 109 patients with ACoA aneurysms treated from January 2018 to October 2021 were reviewed; 94 patients were enrolled. The geometrical parameters of the ACoA aneurysms were measured and calculated using three-dimensional reconstructed digital subtraction angiography images. The aneurysms’ morphological parameters were analyzed using a propensity score for six factors (age, sex, excess alcohol intake, smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus). Univariate logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between the aneurysms’ morphological parameters and rupture risk.

Results

Twenty-five patients each with or without ruptured aneurysms were selected. After matching, no statistically significant differences were seen between the groups in their baseline characteristics. Aneurysm neck size ( p = 0.038) was higher in the unruptured group than that in the ruptured group, and the dome-to-neck ratio (D/N; p = 0.009) and aspect ratio (AR; p = 0.003) were higher in the ruptured group than those in the unruptured group. Univariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that ACoA aneurysm rupture was associated with AR (odds ratio: 8.047; 95% confidence interval: 1.569–41.213; p = 0.012) and D/N (odds ratio: 4.253; 95% confidence interval: 1.228–14.731; p = 0.022). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for AR and D/N were 0.746 and 0.715, respectively.

Conclusions

After PSM, ACoA aneurysms with higher AR and D/N, and smaller neck size were more likely to rupture. AR may be a much more important predictor of aneurysm rupture than other predictors.
How Climate Movement Actors and News Media Frame Climate Change and Strike: Evidence from Analyzing Twitter and News Media Discourse from 2018 to 2021
Authors: Chen Kaiping , Molder Amanda L. , Duan Zening , Boulianne Shelley , Eckart Christopher , Mallari Prince , Yang Diyi
Published: June 2022

Twitter enables an online public sphere for social movement actors, news organizations, and others to frame climate change and the climate movement. In this paper, we analyze five million English tweets posted from 2018 to 2021 demonstrating how peaks in Twitter activity relate to key events and how the framing of the climate strike discourse has evolved over the past three years. We also collected over 30,000 news articles from major news sources in English-speaking countries (Australia, Canada, United States, United Kingdom) to demonstrate how climate movement actors and media differ in their framing of this issue, attention to policy solutions, attribution of blame, and efforts to mobilize citizens to act on this issue. News outlets tend to report on global politicians’ (in)action toward climate policy, the consequences of climate change, and industry's response to the climate crisis. Differently, climate movement actors on Twitter advocate for political actions and policy changes as well as addressing the social justice issues surrounding climate change. We also revealed that conversations around the climate movement on Twitter are highly politicized, with a substantial number of tweets targeting politicians, partisans, and country actors. These findings contribute to our understanding of how people use social media to frame political issues and collective action, in comparison to the traditional mainstream news outlets.
Teaching presence in students’ WhatsApp groups: Affordances for language learning
Authors: Naghdipour Bakhtiar , Manca Stefania
Published: June 2022

With the recent COVID-19 pandemic and disruption of campus-based education, the use of mobile social networking applications to supplement formal education has attracted a great deal of attention. Teachers do have opportunities to join students’ online groups to share, clarify, and exchange housekeeping information and course-related content with them. Teachers can, in particular, provide English as a foreign language (EFL) students with more sources of linguistic input, interaction, and feedback. Research investigating this potential, however, is still scarce in such contexts. The current study explores the likely affordances of teaching presence in students’ WhatsApp groups for designing, facilitating, and guiding cognitive and social processes conducive to their language learning. A mixed-method design was employed to collect both quantitative and qualitative data and information from English-major undergraduates ( N = 111) and faculty teachers ( N = 8) who joined the same WhatsApp groups for one academic semester at a major university in Oman. Descriptive and thematic analyses of data from a survey with both closed-ended and open-ended questions and semi-structured interviews indicate that the shared WhatsApp groups functioned as small close-knit communities where students were able to constantly access teachers for their assistance, feedback, and clarification of content. Despite these merits, however, the participating faculty believed that the presence of teachers in WhatsApp groups might have consequences for students’ tolerance of ambiguity, scaffolding, and autonomous language learning. The paper concludes by discussing several pedagogical implications and directions for future research.
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: Case series of a rare disease in an African setting
Authors: Rubagumya Davis , Mgonja Miriam , Kaguta Munawar , Jusabani Ahmed , Abeid Muzdalfat , Matillya Nancy
Published: June 2022

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy commonly presents in the second and third trimester with unexplained pruritus sine materia, abnormal liver function tests, and/or elevated serum total bile acid concentration. Its incidence ranges from less than 1% to 27.6%, with Araucana Indians from Chile being the highest affected. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy complicates pregnancy, hence influencing its outcomes. Our series involves three cases of pruritus in pregnancy ending with one elective cesarean delivery and two emergency cesarean deliveries without any significant complications to babies as well as immediate resolution of maternal symptoms. High index of suspicion for intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy is of paramount importance among clinicians even in primary care setup. Prompt treatment and intervention will prevent poor perinatal outcome.
PM Me the Truth? The Conditional Effectiveness of Fact-Checks Across Social Media Sites
Authors: Wang Austin Horng-En
Published: June 2022

People use multiple social media daily. Some platforms feature public interactions like Facebook, others emphasize private communications such as Line. Although misinformation is rampant on all platforms, literature on fact-checks (FC) focuses primarily on public ones. This article provides an integrated psychological model and argues that FC is less effective on private platforms. People expect to encounter “unwelcome” FCs (incongruent with their beliefs) on public platforms, but selectively approach the “welcome” FC on private platforms. An experiment ( n = 601) and a national survey ( n = 1060) were implemented to test these hypotheses in the 2020 Taiwan Presidential Election. The experiment shows that respondents prefer FC on Line, which helps their party, but prefer FC on Facebook which disadvantages their party. The survey shows that consuming FC with more private platform usage has lower media literacy, while is the opposite on public platforms. Future work should focus on both FC and how it is consumed.
How to Prevent Stress in the Workplace by Emotional Regulation? The Relationship Between Compulsory Citizen Behavior, Job Engagement, and Job Performance
Authors: Hung Tsang-Kai , Wang Chih-Hung , Tian Mu , Lin Ming , Liu Wen-Hsiu
Published: June 2022

Based on cognitive dissonance theory, this study aims to test good soldier syndrome regarding the relationship among compulsory citizenship behavior, job engagement, emotion regulation, and job performance so as to promote sustainable Human Resource Management (HRM). The sample, which applied the purposive sampling method, comprised 89 supervisors and 304 subordinates who work from 4-star and 5-star hotels in Taiwan. The results showed that the relevantly negative effect of employees’ performance is caused by compulsory citizenship behavior, that job engagement mediates the relationship between compulsory citizenship behavior and job performance, and that the indirect effect between compulsory citizenship behavior and job performance via job engagement is moderated by emotion regulation. Based on the findings of this study, this paper provides managerial implications, limitations of the current study, and future research suggestions.
Reining in Punitive Discipline: Recent Trends in Exclusionary School Discipline Disparities
Authors: Hwang NaYoung , Penner Emily K. , Davison Miles , Sanabria Tanya , Hanselman Paul , Domina Thurston , Penner Andrew M.
Published: June 2022

Concerns around disparities in suspensions and expulsions from schools in the United States have resulted in a concerted effort to reduce the use of exclusionary school discipline. In this article, the authors describe trends in the use of exclusionary discipline in Indiana and Oregon, two U.S. states with different school discipline policy climates. The findings point to a substantial decline in the use of suspensions and other forms of exclusionary discipline in both states. The authors further find that racial and socioeconomic disparities have recently narrowed in both states, though Black students and students who were identified as economically disadvantaged remain likely to be disproportionately exposed to exclusionary discipline. These trends, and their timing, illustrate the broad-based change in disciplinary norms that has occurred in the U.S. over the past decade.
The influences of the COVID-19 pandemic on sustainable consumption: an international study
Authors: Leal Filho Walter , Salvia Amanda Lange , Paço Arminda , Dinis Maria Alzira Pimenta , Vidal Diogo Guedes , Da Cunha Dênis Antônio , de Vasconcelos Claudio Ruy , Baumgartner Rupert J. , Rampasso Izabela , Anholon Rosley , Doni Federica , Sonetti Giulia , Azeiteiro Ulisses , Carvalho Sara , Ríos Francisco Javier Montoro
Published: June 2022

Background

Sustainable production and consumption are two important issues, which mutually interact. Whereas individuals have little direct influence on the former, they can play a key role on the latter. This paper describes the subject matter of sustainable consumption and outlines its key features. It also describes some international initiatives in this field.

Results

By means of an international survey, the study explores the emphasis given to sustainable consumption during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the degree of preparedness in individuals to engage in the purchase of green and sustainably manufactured products. The main results indicate that the pandemic offered an opportunity to promote sustainable consumption; nevertheless, the pandemic alone cannot be regarded as a ‘game changer’ in this topic.

Conclusions

Apart from an online survey with responses from 31 countries, which makes it one of the most representative studies on the topic, a logit model was used to analyse the main variables that affect the probability of pro-environmental consumption behaviour because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper lists some of the technological and social innovations that may be needed, so as to guide more sustainable consumption patterns in a post-pandemic world.
Analysis of codon usage bias of WRKY transcription factors in Helianthus annuus
Authors: Gao Yue , Lu Yan , Song Yang , Jing Lan
Published: June 2022

Background

The phenomenon of codon usage bias is known to exist in many genomes and is mainly determined by mutation and selection. Codon usage bias analysis is a suitable strategy for identifying the principal evolutionary driving forces in different organisms. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is an annual crop that is cultivated worldwide as ornamentals, food plants and for their valuable oil. The WRKY family genes in plants play a central role in diverse regulation and multiple stress responses. Evolutionary analysis of WRKY family genes of H. annuus can provide rich genetic information for developing hybridization resources of the genus Helianthus.

Results

Bases composition analysis showed the average GC content of WRKY genes of H. annuus was 43.42%, and the average GC3 content was 39.60%, suggesting that WRKY gene family prefers A/T(U) ending codons. There were 29 codons with relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) greater than 1 and 22 codons ending with A and U base. The effective number of codons (ENC) and codon adaptation index (CAI) in WRKY genes ranged from 43.47–61.00 and 0.14–0.26, suggesting that the codon bias was weak and WRKY genes expression level was low. Neutrality analysis found a significant correlation between GC12 and GC3. ENC-plot showed most genes on or close to the expected curve, suggesting that mutational bias played a major role in shaping codon usage. The Parity Rule 2 plot (PR2) analysis showed that the usage of AT and GC was disproportionate. A total of three codons were identified as the optimal codons.

Conclusion

Apart from natural selection effects, most of the genetic evolution in the H. annuus WRKY genome might be driven by mutation pressure. Our results provide a theoretical foundation for elaborating the genetic architecture and mechanisms of H. annuus and contributing to enrich H. annuus genetic resources.
HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1 and -DQB1 allele and haplotype frequencies in Lebanese and their relatedness to neighboring and distant populations
Authors: Almawi Wassim Y. , Nemr Rita , Finan Ramzi R. , Saldhana F. Lisa , Hajjej Abdelhafidh
Published: June 2022

Background

This study examined the origin of present-day Lebanese using high-resolution HLA class I and class II allele and haplotype distributions. The study subjects comprised 152 unrelated individuals, and their HLA class I and class II alleles and two-locus and five-locus haplotypes were compared with those of neighboring and distant communities using genetic distances, neighbor-joining dendrograms, correspondence, and haplotype analyses. HLA class I (A, B, C) and class II (DRB1, DQB1) were genotyped at a high-resolution level by PCR-SSP.

Results

In total, 76 alleles across the five HLA loci were detected: A*03:01 (17.1%), A*24:02 (16.5%), B*35:01 (25.7%), C*04:01 (25.3%), and C*07:01 (20.7%) were the most frequent class I alleles, while DRB1*11:01 (34.2%) and DQB1*03:01 (43.8%) were the most frequent class II alleles. All pairs of HLA loci were in significant linkage disequilibrium. The most frequent two-locus haplotypes recorded were DRB1*11:01 ~ DQB1*03:01 (30.9%), B*35:01-C*04:01 (20.7%), B*35:01 ~ DRB1*11:01 (13.8%), and A*24:02 ~ B*35:01 (10.3%). Lebanese appear to be closely related to East Mediterranean communities such as Levantines (Palestinians, Syrians, and Jordanians), Turks, Macedonians, and Albanians. However, Lebanese appear to be distinct from North African, Iberian, and Sub-Saharan communities.

Conclusions

Collectively, this indicates a limited genetic contribution of Arabic-speaking populations (from North Africa or the Arabian Peninsula) and Sub-Saharan communities to the present-day Lebanese gene pool. This confirms the notion that Lebanese population are of mixed East Mediterranean and Asian origin, with a marked European component.
The effect of probiotics on immunogenicity of spermatozoa in couples suffering from recurrent spontaneous abortion
Authors: Rafiee Mitra , Sereshki Nasrin , Alipour Razieh , Ahmadipanah Vahid , Pashoutan Sarvar Davod , Wilkinson David
Published: June 2022

Background

Impaired spermatozoa immunogenicity can result in pregnancy complications such as recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). Given that spermatozoa contact with microbiota, it is possible that inappropriate microbiota composition in the reproductive tract could result in the alteration of spermatozoa antigenicity. Probiotics, as a representative of microbiota, may therefore have a beneficial effect on this altered immunogenicity. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of probiotics on spermatozoa immunogenicity.

Methods

Twenty-five fertile couples and twenty-five RSA couples were included in this study. Spermatozoa were purified and treated with probiotics. Untreated and probiotic treated spermatozoa were evaluated for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I & II expression by flow cytometry. Untreated and probiotic treated spermatozoa were also cocultured with the wife’s peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) for 12 days. Then, the supernatant was assessed for IgG and APCA by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) assay respectively.

Results

Probiotic treatment of spermatozoa leads to an increase of HLA class I & II expression in both the fertile and RSA groups. The probiotic treatment resulted in a decrease in both IgG and APCA in the fertile group, but an increase in both IgG and APCA in the RSA group.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that a supplementary probiotic treatment may be useful in couples suffering from RSA with an immunologic cause, because it improves disturbed HLA expression on spermatozoa and improves disturbed APCA and IgG production in the presence of spermatozoa.
Mapping the complexity of dementia: factors influencing cognitive function at the onset of dementia
Authors: Seifert Imke , Wiegelmann Henrik , Lenart-Bugla Marta , Łuc Mateusz , Pawłowski Marcin , Rouwette Etienne , Rymaszewska Joanna , Szcześniak Dorota , Vernooij-Dassen Myrra , Perry Marieke , Melis René , Wolf-Ostermann Karin , Gerhardus Ansgar ,   on behalf of the SHARED consortium
Published: June 2022

Background

Dementia is a multi-factorial condition rather than a natural and inevitable consequence of ageing. Some factors related to dementia have been studied much more extensively than others. To gain an overview of known or suspected influential factors is a prerequisite to design studies that aim to identify causal relationships and interactions between factors. This article aims to develop a visual model that a) identifies factors related to cognitive decline that signal the onset of dementia, b) structures them by different domains and c) reflects on and visualizes the possible causal links and interactions between these factors based on expert input using a causal loop diagram.

Method

We used a mixed-method, step-wise approach: 1. A systematic literature review on factors related to cognitive decline; 2. A group model building (GMB) workshop with experts from different disciplines; 3. Structured discussions within the group of researchers. The results were continuously synthesized and graphically transformed into a causal loop diagram.

Results

The causal loop diagram comprises 73 factors that were structured into six domains: physical (medical) factors (23), social health factors (21), psychological factors (14), environmental factors (5), demographic factors (5) and lifestyle factors (3). 57 factors were identified in the systematic literature review, additionally 16 factors, mostly of the social health cluster, were identified during the GMB session and the feedback rounds.

Conclusion

The causal loop diagram offers a comprehensive visualisation of factors related to cognitive decline and their interactions. It supports the generation of hypotheses on causal relationships and interactions of factors within and between domains.
Clinical features and outcomes of COVID-19 admissions in a population with a high prevalence of HIV and tuberculosis: a multicentre cohort study
Authors: Parker Arifa , Boloko Linda , Moolla Muhammad S. , Ebrahim Nabilah , Ayele Birhanu T. , Broadhurst Alistair G. B. , Mashigo Boitumelo , Titus Gideon , de Wet Timothy , Boliter Nicholas , Rosslee Michael-Jon , Papavarnavas Nectarios , Abrahams Riezaah , Mendelson Marc , Dlamini Sipho , Taljaard Jantjie J. , Prozesky Hans W. , Mowlana Abdurasiet , Viljoen Abraham J. , Schrueder Neshaad , Allwood Brian W. , Lalla Usha , Dave Joel A. , Calligaro Greg , Levin Dion , Maughan Deborah , Ntusi Ntobeko A. B. , Nyasulu Peter S. , Meintjes Graeme , Koegelenberg Coenraad F. N. , Mnguni Ayanda T. , Wasserman Sean
Published: June 2022

Background

There is still a paucity of evidence on the outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) and those co-infected with tuberculosis (TB), particularly in areas where these conditions are common. We describe the clinical features, laboratory findings and outcome of hospitalised PWH and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-uninfected COVID-19 patients as well as those co-infected with tuberculosis (TB).

Methods

We conducted a multicentre cohort study across three hospitals in Cape Town, South Africa. All adults requiring hospitalisation with confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia from March to July 2020 were analysed.

Results

PWH comprised 270 (19%) of 1434 admissions. There were 47 patients with active tuberculosis (3.3%), of whom 29 (62%) were PWH. Three-hundred and seventy-three patients (26%) died. The mortality in PWH (n = 71, 26%) and HIV-uninfected patients (n = 296, 25%) was comparable. In patients with TB, PWH had a higher mortality than HIV-uninfected patients (n = 11, 38% vs n = 3, 20%; p = 0.001). In multivariable survival analysis a higher risk of death was associated with older age (Adjusted Hazard Ratio (AHR) 1.03 95%CI 1.02–1.03, p < 0.001), male sex (AHR1.38 (95%CI 1.12–1.72, p = 0.003) and being “overweight or obese” (AHR 1.30 95%CI 1.03–1.61 p = 0.024). HIV (AHR 1.28 95%CI 0.95–1.72, p 0.11) and active TB (AHR 1.50 95%CI 0.84–2.67, p = 0.17) were not independently associated with increased risk of COVID-19 death. Risk factors for inpatient mortality in PWH included CD4 cell count < 200 cells/mm3, higher admission oxygen requirements, absolute white cell counts, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratios, C-reactive protein, and creatinine levels.

Conclusion

In a population with high prevalence of HIV and TB, being overweight/obese was associated with increased risk of mortality in COVID-19 hospital admissions, emphasising the need for public health interventions in this patient population.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals with nystagmus and an exploration of public assumptions about the condition: an electronic questionnaire study
Authors: Rennie Katherine , Alagendran Rajeeth , Lee Helena , Griffiths Helen ,   Nystagmus U. K. Eye Research Group (NUKE), Theodorou M , Lee H , Self J , Shawkat F , Carter P , Erichsen J , Dunn M , McIlreavy L , Thomas N , Ward K , Whittle J , Sanders J , Harris C , McLean R , Lawrence D , Ricketts S , Gliksohn A , Griffiths H , Thomas M , Kuht H , Kubavat H , Woodhouse M , Arblaster G , Self James
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Nystagmus is a disorder characterized by uncontrolled, rhythmic oscillations of the eyes. It often causes reduced visual function beyond reduced visual acuity alone. There is a paucity of literature regarding the public understanding of nystagmus, and there are no published data on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people living with the condition. This study explores the self-reported impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on those with nystagmus, and examines both public understanding of how nystagmus affects people who have it and the perceptions of public understanding by those with the condition and their carers.

Methods

A qualitative questionnaire was designed following a stakeholder engagement process. This questionnaire was advertised via social media platforms and charity websites to achieve widespread recruitment. Data were collected between November and December 2020. Participants were divided into two groups based on their response to the question: “Do you, or anyone you know well, have nystagmus?”. Questions were posed to participants in a purpose-built, branching survey. The resulting data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods.

Results

One thousand six hundred forty-five respondents were recruited, of which 849 (51.6%) answered “Yes” to the initial filtering question. Analysis showed that, broadly, public understanding of nystagmus differs from the perception of it by those with nystagmus and their carers, that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on those with nystagmus, and that respondents who have met someone with nystagmus, even briefly, tend to have a greater understanding of the impact of the condition.

Conclusion

This study highlights the lack of public awareness regarding nystagmus and suggests opportunities to increase the awareness of nystagmus without the need for extensive knowledge of the condition. The COVID-19 pandemic has posed additional difficulties for those living with nystagmus, which is likely to be comparable among those with similar ocular disorders.
North-African doctors as second victims of medical errors: a cross sectional survey
Authors: Ben Saida Imen , Grira Sabil , Toumi Radhouane , Ghodhbani Amani , Ennouri Emna , Meddeb Khaoula , Ben Saad Helmi , Boussarsar Mohamed
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Physicians involved in medical errors (MEs) can experience loss of self-esteem and negative psychological experiences. They are called “second victims” of the ME.

Aims

To i) describe the profile, the types and the severity of MEs, and ii) explore the psychological impact on “second victims” to better understand how they cope.

Methods

It was a cross sectional retrospective study conducted from March to August 2018. All physicians working at Farhat Hached and Sahloul University hospitals were asked to complete a questionnaire about their possible MEs. The impact of MEs was evaluated using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) (scoring, 0–88) (subscales ranges; intrusion, (0–32); avoidance, (0–32); hyperarousal, (0–24)). The diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was made when the total IES-R score exceeded 33. The coping strategies were evaluated using Ways of Coping Checklist Revised (WCC-R) scale (scoring, problem-focused, (10–40); emotion focused, (9–36); seeking social support, (8–32)).

Results

Among 393 responders, 268(68.2%) reported MEs. Wrong diagnosis (40.5%), faulty treatment (34.6%), preventive errors (13.5%) and faulty communication (6.4%) were the main frequent types of MEs. The most common related causes of MEs were inexperience (47.3%) and job overload (40.2%). The physicians’ median (range) score of the IES-R was 19(0–69). According to the IES-R score, the most frequent psychological impacts were median (range): intrusion, 7(0–28) and avoidance symptoms, 7(0–24). PTSD symptoms affected 23.5% of physicians. Female sex and serious MEs were identified as predictors of PTSD. On the WCC-R check list, coping was balanced between the three coping strategies median (range), problem focused, 28.5(10–40); emotion-focused, 24(9–36) and seeking social support 21(8–32).

Conclusion

There is a relatively high impact of ME within these North-African university hospital physicians. Coping was balanced within different three strategies as reported worldwide. Physicians adopted more likely constructive changes than defensive ones.
18F-FDG and 68 Ga-FAPI PET/CT for the evaluation of periprosthetic joint infection and aseptic loosening in rabbit models
Authors: Wang Yiqun , Li Yu , Han Liang , Wang Jun , Zhang Cong , Qi Erpeng , Zhang Dongyun , Zhang Xiaojun , Huan Yong , Tian Jiahe
Published: June 2022

Purpose

We built a joint replacement loosening model based on the original rabbit model of infection and evaluated the performance characteristics of 18F-FDG and 68 Ga-FAPI in evaluating infection and loosening.

Methods

After surgery, the rabbits were divided into four groups, with six individuals in the control group and 10 each in the aseptic loosening, S. aureus and S. epidermidis groups. PET/CT and serological examination were performed three times at two-week intervals. After the rabbits were euthanized, micro-CT, tissue pathology, pullout tests and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed.

Results

The pullout test and SEM showed the feasibility of the aseptic loosening model. 18F-FDG showed similar performance in the control and loosening groups. The SUVmax of the S. aureus group was consistently higher than that of the S. epidermidis group. As for 68 Ga-FAPI, the SUVmax of the control group was lowest in the second week and gradually increased over subsequent weeks. The SUVmax of the loosening group began to exceed that of the control group after the second week. The SUVmax of the S. aureus group in the second week was the lowest among the four groups and increased as the number of weeks increased. The pathology results showed concordance with the performance of PET/CT. Linear regressions between SUVmax and serology showed that 18F-FDG was positively correlated with CRP and IL-6, while 68 Ga-FAPI revealed negative correlations with CRP and IL-6 in the second week and positive correlations in the sixth week. In addition, the SUVmax and MT(target)V of both 18F-FDG and 68 Ga-FAPI were negatively correlated with bone volume/trabecular volume (TV) and bone surface area/TV.

Conclusion

In this longitudinal observation, 68 Ga-FAPI showed greater sensitivity than 18F-FDG in detecting diseases, and 68 Ga-FAPI had no intestinal or muscular uptake. The MT(target)V of 68 Ga-FAPI was larger than that of 18F-FDG, which meant that 68 Ga-FAPI had the potential to define the scope of lesions more accurately. Finally, the SUVmax of 68 Ga-FAPI could not differentiate between loosening and infection; further study of the diagnostic criteria is warranted.
Simultaneous resection of coexisting pulmonary and mediastinal lesions by video-assisted thoracic surgery: a case-series study
Authors: Zhang Jiaheng , Gao Yi , Zou Wenbing , Ping Wei , Zhu Yunpeng , Fu Xiangning , Fu Shengling
Published: June 2022

Background

With the growing number of patients with coexisting pulmonary and mediastinal lesions detected, reports about simultaneous video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) for these concurrent diseases are still rare. To further explore the safety and effectiveness of simultaneous resection of pulmonary and mediastinal lesions by uniportal or biportal VATS, we retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of the largest series of cases to date.

Methods

From July 2018 to July 2021, all patients whose pulmonary lesions and mediastinal tumors were resected simultaneously in our institution were retrospectively reviewed. Their demographic and clinical data were collected and analyzed.

Results

A total of 54 patients were enrolled, of whom 44 underwent unilateral uniportal VATS, 3 underwent bilateral uniportal VATS and 7 underwent unilateral biportal VATS. Seven cases were converted to thoracotomy during surgery. For the remaining 47 patients with various demographic and clinical characteristics, most of the operations were completed within 3 h (n = 33, 70.2%) with blood loss of no more than 100 mL (n = 43, 91.5%). The duration of chest tube drainage was 5.66 ± 3.34 days, and the average daily volume was 196.90 ± 122.31 mL. Four cases of postoperative complications occurred during hospitalization. The length of postoperative hospital stay was 8.60 ± 3.63 days. No severe complications or deaths were observed during follow-up.

Conclusions

Uniportal and biportal VATS are safe and effective for simultaneous resection of selected coexisting pulmonary and mediastinal lesions, but the indications and operational details need more evaluation.
The impact of online teaching on stress and burnout of academics during the transition to remote teaching from home
Authors: Mosleh Sultan M. , Kasasbeha Mohammed Ali , Aljawarneh Yousef M. , Alrimawi Intima , Saifan Ahmad Rajeh
Published: June 2022

Background

The higher education institutions worldwide have been transformed unexpectedly to online teaching. This sudden movement from blended learning or traditional face-to-face teaching has severely disrupted university activities and posed many challenges for teaching staff, who were asked to develop online versions of their courses overnight. This study explores the effect of the current changes in education style and working from home on the stress and burnout levels of teaching staff.

Methods

This study utilized a cross-sectional design, whereby 278 participants (faculty and course instructors) from 17 campuses of one of the largest colleges in United Arab Emirates completed a web-based survey. Numerous instruments were utilized to obtain the following data: participants demographics; their perceived stress during online teaching; their perception of the impact of teaching from home on their family’s daily life, physical health, mental health and ability to cope with stress; burnout level; and their satisfaction with online teaching.

Results

Around 60% of participants reported moderate stress level during online teaching (moderate stress = 5 to 8) under COVID-19 (M 6.21 ± 2.26). An independent sample t-test and ANOVA tests revealed that participants with 7–10 years of online teaching experience reported more stress than participants who have 4–6 years online teaching experience (M 7.29, ±1.11 Vs. 5.30, ±2.69; P = 0.04). Moreover, multiple regression analysis showed that higher stress levels and lower satisfaction with the online teaching experience were associated with more significant personal and working burnout. Married participants with school-age children were at greater risk of personal burnout.

Conclusion

The transition to remote education imposed mental burdens and stress on faculty members. Supportive professional development strategies to enrich faculty with online teaching skills are urgently required.
Blended supervision models for post-graduate rural generalist medical training in Australia: an interview study
Authors: Martin Priya , O’Sullivan Belinda , Taylor Carla , Wallace Glen
Published: June 2022

Background

Expanding rural training is a priority for growing the rural medical workforce, but this relies on building supervision capacity in small towns where workforce shortages are common. This study explored factors which support the use of blended supervision models (consisting of on- and offsite components) for postgraduate rural generalist medical training (broad scope of work) in small rural communities.

Methods

Data were collected between June and August 2021 through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with medical training stakeholders experienced in blended supervision models for rural generalist training. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using an inductive thematic analysis process.

Results

Fifteen participant interviews provided almost 13 h of audio-recorded data. Four themes were developed: governance, setting, the right supervisor and the right supervisee. Blended supervision models may be effective if selectively applied including where the model is well-planned, the setting has local team supports and supervisor and supervisee characteristics are appropriate.

Conclusions

Understanding factors involved in the application of blended supervision models can help with expanding rural generalist training places in distributed communities. Blended supervision models can be effective for rural generalist training if the model is planned, and the context is suitable.
Three-dimensional visualisation of authentic cases in anatomy learning – An educational design study
Authors: Silén Charlotte , Karlgren Klas , Hjelmqvist Hans , Meister Björn , Zeberg Hugo , Pettersson Anna
Published: June 2022

Background

Many studies have investigated the value of three-dimensional (3D) images in learning anatomy. However, there is a lack of knowledge about students learning processes using technology and 3D images. To understand how to facilitate and support the learning of anatomy, there is a need to know more about the student perspectives on how they can use and benefit from 3D images.

Methods

This study used designed educational sessions informed by Educational Design Research to investigate the role of technology-enhanced 3D images in students’ anatomy learning. Twenty-four students representing different health professions and multiple study levels, and one tutor, participated in the study. A visualisation table was used to display the images of real patient cases related to disorders associated with the abdomen and the brain. Students were asked to explore the images on their own and audio/video capture was used to record their words and actions. Directly following the session, students were interviewed about their perceptions and different ways of learning and studying anatomy. The tutor was interviewed about his reflections on the session and his role as a facilitator on two occasions. Content analysis was used in its manifest and latent form in the data analysis.

Result

Two main categories describing the students’ and tutor’s accounts of learning using the visualisation table were identified: 1. Interpreting 3D images and 2. Educational sessions using visualisation tables. Each category had signifying themes representing interpretations of the latent meaning of the students' and tutor's accounts. These were: Realism and complexity; Processes of discernment; References to previous knowledge; Exploring on one's own is valuable; Context enhances learning experiences; Combinations of learning resources are needed and Working together affects the dynamics.

Conclusions

This study identifies several important factors to be considered when designing effective and rewarding educational sessions using a visualization table and 3D images in anatomy education. Visualisation of authentic images has the potential to create interest and meaningfulness in studying anatomy. Students need time to actively explore images but also get tutor guidance to understand. Also, a combination of different resources comprises a more helpful whole than a single learning resource.
Validation of an instrument for the evaluation of exchange transfusion (INEXTUS) via an OSCE
Authors: Calderón María José Maldonado , Pérez Sergio Iván Agudelo , Becerra Natalia , Suarez Juan David
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Exchange transfusion is the treatment of choice for patients with severe hyperbilirubinemia who do not respond to phototherapy. This procedure is highly complex and requires substantial expertise to perform, however it´s not done frequently enough to guarantee adequate training. Traditional learning scenarios do not have a space reserved for teaching this procedure or an instrument that fully and objectively evaluates the skills that a professional must acquire. 

Objectives

The purpose was to construct and evaluate the INEXTUS instrument´s validity evidence relevant to internal structure, in a simulated scenario through the performance of an objective structured clinical exam (OSCE). 

Materials and methods

The Delphi consensus methodology was utilized to design the instrument; six experts participated through three rounds using the Google Forms platform. The categories and items previously obtained were subjected to validation by nine experts through a dichotomous survey. Prior to data collection, the evaluators were trained through a pilot test with 10 medical students. Subsequently, all residents of a paediatric programme were evaluated through the OSCE methodology in a simulated scenario, with 6 stations, of a clinical case of a new-born with an explicit need for exchange transfusion. During their participation in the scenario, the residents were first evaluated with the instrument developed. Additionally, audio and video filming of all students who participated was performed with the aim of conducting a second evaluation two weeks after the first four evaluators participated.

Results

The final INEXTUS instrument consists of 46 subitems grouped into 23 items divided into 6 categories, demonstrating an inter-rater intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.96 (95% CI 0.94, 0.98 p-value < 0.001). For the Fleiss Kappa of the 23 items evaluated, concordance was evaluated for 14 items but could not be determined for the 9 remaining items because all the ratings were equal, either because the items were not performed or they were all performed adequately. Of the 14 items, 9 good scores were obtained (95% CI 0.61 to 0.8; p value < 0.001), and 5 very good scores were obtained (95% CI 0.81 to 1; p value < 0.001).

Conclusions

The INEXTUS instrument evaluates exchange transfusion skills in medical personnel in training in simulated scenarios using the OSCE methodology; it has high validity and reliability and is a high-impact educational tool.
COVID-19 and telehealth in the intensive care unit setting: a survey
Authors: Nelson Sarah E. , Steuernagle Jon , Rotello Leo , Nyquist Paul , Suarez Jose I. , Ziai Wendy
Published: June 2022

Background

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has led to changes in how healthcare is delivered. Here, through the administration of surveys, we evaluated telehealth use and views in US intensive care units (ICUs) during the pandemic.

Methods

From June 2020 to July 2021, voluntary, electronic surveys were provided to ICU leaders of Johns Hopkins Medical Institution (JHMI) hospitals, members of the Neurocritical Care Society (NCS) who practice in the US, and Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) members practicing adult medicine.

Results

Response rates to our survey were as follows: 18 of 22 (81.8%) JHMI-based ICU leaders, 22 of 2218 (1.0%) NCS members practicing in the US, and 136 of 13,047 (1.0%) SCCM members. COVID-19 patients were among those cared for in the ICUs of 77.7, 86.4, and 93.4% of respondents, respectively, in April 2020 (defined as the peak of the pandemic). Telehealth technologies were used by 88.9, 77.3, and 75.6% of respondents, respectively, following the start of COVID-19 while only 22.2, 31.8, and 43.7% utilized them prior. The most common telehealth technologies were virtual meeting software and telephone (with no video component). Provider, nurse, and patient communications with the patient’s family constituted the most frequent types of interactions utilizing telehealth. Most common reasons for telehealth use included providing an update on a patient’s condition and conducting a goals of care discussion. 93.8–100.0% of respondents found telehealth technologies valuable in managing patients. Technical issues were noted by 66.7, 50.0, and 63.4% of respondents, respectively.

Conclusions

Telehealth use increased greatly among respondents following the start of COVID-19. In US ICUs, telehealth technologies found diverse uses during the pandemic. Future studies are needed to confirm our findings.
A Japanese case of castration-resistant prostate cancer with BRCA2 and RB1 co-loss and TP53 mutation: a case report
Authors: Iwasawa Tomohiro , Kosaka Takeo , Morita Shinya , Mikami Shuji , Nakamura Kohei , Hongo Hiroshi , Nishihara Hiroshi , Oya Mototsugu
Published: June 2022

Background

Abnormalities in homologous recombination contribute to the aggressive nature of castration-resistant prostate cancer. Retinoblastoma transcriptional corepressor 1 (RB1) and breast cancer 2 (BRCA2) exist close to each other in the same chromosome, and the significance of their concurrent loss has become a hot topic in the field of cancer research.

Case presentation

A 61-year-old man presented with a chief complaint of a mass on his head and was diagnosed as multiple bone metastases from prostate cancer. He was treated with standard medication, but he died 2 years 6 months after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Simultaneous biallelic loss of RB1 and BRCA2 as well as a truncating mutation of tumor protein p53 (TP53) were revealed by genomic analysis.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) with BRCA2 and RB1 co-loss and TP53 mutation. To establish a treatment strategy for highly malignant cases with such multiple genetic features is important.
Comparison of anti-cancer effects of novel protein disulphide isomerase (PDI) inhibitors in breast cancer cells characterized by high and low PDIA17 expression
Authors: Kurpińska Anna , Suraj-Prażmowska Joanna , Stojak Marta , Jarosz Joanna , Mateuszuk Łukasz , Niedzielska-Andres Ewa , Smolik Magdalena , Wietrzyk Joanna , Kalvins Ivars , Walczak Maria , Chłopicki Stefan
Published: June 2022

Background

Protein disulphide isomerases (PDIs) play an important role in cancer progression. However, the relative contribution of the various isoforms of PDI in tumorigenesis is not clear.

Methods

The content of PDI isoforms in 22 cancer cells lines was investigated using LC–MS/MS-based proteomic analysis. The effects of PDIA1, PDIA3 and PDIA17 inhibition on the proliferation, migration and adhesion of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, identified as high and low PDIA17 expressing cells, respectively, were assessed using novel aromatic N-sulphonamides of aziridine-2-carboxylic acid derivatives as PDI inhibitors.

Results

PDIA1 and PDIA3 were the most abundant in cancer cell lysates and were also detected extracellularly in breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7). Some cancer cell lines (e.g., MCF-7, HT-29) showed upregulated expression of PDIA17, whereas in others (e.g., MDA-MB-231, 67NR), PDIA17 was not detected. The simultaneous inhibition of PDIA1 and PDIA3 showed similar anti-proliferative effects in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. However, the inhibition of PDIA1 and PDIA17 in the MCF-7 cell line resulted in more effective anti-adhesive and anti-proliferative effects.

Conclusions

PDIA1 and PDIA3 represent major isoforms of multiple cancer cells, and their non-selective inhibition displays significant anti-proliferative effects irrespective of whether or not PDIA17 is present. The more pronounced anti-adhesive effects of PDI inhibition in hormone-sensitive MCF-7 cells featured by higher levels of PDIs when compared to triple-negative MDA-MB-231 cells suggests that targeting extracellular PDIA1 and PDIA3 with or without additional PDIA17 inhibition may represent a strategy for personalized anti-adhesive, anti-metastatic therapy in cancers with high PDI expression.