bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Link between APOE4 Presence and Neuropsychological Test Performance among Mexican Americans and Non-Hispanic Whites of the Multiethnic Health & Aging Brain Study – Health Disparities Cohort
Authors: O’Bryant Sid E. , Barber Robert C. , Philips Nicole , Johnson Leigh A. , Hall James R. , Subasinghe Kumudu , Petersen Melissa , Toga Arthur W. , Yaffe Kristine , Rissman Robert A. ,   for the HABS-HD Study Team
Published: February 2022

Introduction: The APOEε4 allele is the single strongest genetic risk for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Prior work demonstrates that not only the APOEε4 allele varies by race/ethnicity but also the risk for AD and cognitive impairment conveyed by the APOEε4 allele varies by the racial/ethnic group as well as genetic ancestry. Here, we sought to examine the link between the APOEε4 and neuropsychological functioning among Mexican Americans (MAs). Methods: Data were examined from 1,633 (852 MAs and 781 non-Hispanic Whites [NHWs]) participants of the Health & Aging Brain Study – Health Disparities (HABS-HD) and were enrolled with all requisite data to be included into the current analyses. Results: The frequency of both ε4 and ε2 alleles was significantly lower among MAs as compared to NHWs. Among MAs, APOEε4 allele presence was associated specifically with poorer immediate and delayed memory (Wechsler Memory Scale – Third Edition [WMS-III] Logical Memory and Spanish-English Verbal Learning Test [SEVLT]). Among NHWs, APOEε4 allele presence was associated with poorer immediate and delayed memory as well as worse executive functioning (Trials B) and verbal fluency (Animal naming). Discussion/Conclusion: The APOEε4 allele was associated with poorer cognition across multiple domains among NHWs; however, allele presence was specifically associated with poorer memory performance among MAs. When combined with prior work, the current findings demonstrate that the risk factors associated with cognitive dysfunction differ among MAs as compared to NHWs and require additional investigation.
NSCLC: Zusammenhang zwischen Mikrobiom der Atemwege und Ansprechen auf Immuntherapie
Authors: Rachow Tobias , Lang Susanne M.
Published: February 2022

Background: Lung cancer is the primary cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The human lung serves as a niche to a unique and dynamic bacterial community that is related to the development of multiple diseases. Here, we investigated the differences in the lung microbiomes of patients with lung cancer. Methods: 16S rRNA sequencing was performed to evaluate the respiratory tract microbiome present in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Patients were stratified based on programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression levels and immunotherapy responses. Results: In total, 84 patients were prospectively analyzed, of which 59 showed low (<10%), and 25 showed high (≥10%) PD-L1 expression levels. The alpha and beta diversities did not significantly differ between the two groups. Veillonella dispar was dominant in the high-PD-L1 group; the population of Neisseria was significantly higher in the low-PD-L1 group than in the high-PD-L1 group. In the immunotherapy responder group, V. dispar was dominant, while Haemophilus influenzae and Neisseria perflava were dominant in the non-responder group. Conclusion: The abundances of Neisseriaand V. dispardiffered significantly in relation to PD-L1 expression levels and immunotherapy responses.
Variations in Coronary Revascularization Practices and Their Effect on Long‐Term Outcomes
Authors: Rocha Rodolfo V. , Wang Xuesong , Fremes Stephen E. , Tam Derrick Y. , Ko Dennis T. , Džavík Vladimír , Hannan Edward L. , Austin Peter C. , Ouzounian Maral , Lee Douglas S.
Published: February 2022

Background

The degree of hospital‐level variation in the ratio of percutaneous coronary interventions to coronary artery bypass grafting procedures (PCI:CABG) and the association of the PCI:CABG ratio with clinical outcome are unknown.

Methods and Results

In a multicenter population‐based study conducted in Ontario, Canada, we identified 44 288 patients from 19 institutions who had nonemergent diagnostic angiograms indicating severe multivessel coronary artery disease (2013–2017) and underwent a coronary revascularization procedure within 90 days. Hospitals were divided into tertiles according to their adjusted PCI:CABG ratio into low (0.70–0.85, n=17 487), medium (1.01–1.17, n=15 275), and high (1.18–1.29, n=11 526) ratio institutions. Compared with low PCI:CABG ratio hospitals, hazard ratios (HRs) for major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events were higher at medium (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.14–1.25) and high ratio (HR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.15–1.27) hospitals during a median 3.3 (interquartile range 2.1–4.6) years follow‐up. When interventional cardiologists performed the diagnostic angiogram, the odds of the patient receiving PCI was higher (odds ratio, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.23–1.52) than when it was performed by noninterventional cardiologists, after accounting for patient characteristics. Having the diagnostic angiogram at an institution without cardiac surgical capabilities was independently associated with a higher risk of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (HR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.02–1.11), death (HR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.02–1.18), and myocardial infarction (HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.03–1.17).

Conclusions

Patients undergoing diagnostic angiography in hospitals with higher PCI:CABG ratio had higher rates of adverse outcomes, including major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events, myocardial infarction, and repeat revascularization. Presence of on‐site cardiac surgery was associated with better survival and lower major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events.
Maintaining Stroke Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Lower- and Middle-Income Countries: World Stroke Organization Position Statement Endorsed by American Stroke Association and American Heart Association
Authors: Pandain Jeyaraj D. , Panagos Peter D. , Sebastian Ivy A. , Silva Gisele Sampaio , Furie Karen L. , Liu Liping , Owolabi Mayowa O. , Caso Valeria , Alrukn Suhail A. ,   World Stroke Organization and American Stroke Association Writing Group
Published: February 2022

For more than a year, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has had a devastating effect on global health. High-, low, and middle-income countries are struggling to cope with the spread of newer mutant strains of the virus. Delivery of acute stroke care remains a priority despite the pandemic. In order to maintain the time-dependent processes required to optimize delivery of intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular therapy, most countries have reorganized infrastructure to optimize human resources and critical services. Low-and-middle income countries (LMIC) have strained medical resources at baseline and often face challenges in the delivery of stroke systems of care (SSOC). This position statement aims to produce pragmatic recommendations on methods to preserve the existing SSOC during COVID-19 in LMIC and propose best stroke practices that may be low cost but high impact and commonly shared across the world.
The millipede genus Pandirodesmus Silvestri, 1932 in Trinidad and Tobago, Caribbean, with the description of P. jaggernauthi sp. nov. from Trinidad (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Chelodesmidae, Pandirodesmini)
Authors: VANDENSPIEGEL DIDIER , GOLOVATCH SERGEI I. , RUTHERFORD MIKE G.
Published: February 2022

During several collecting surveys for terrestrial micro-molluscs across Trinidad and Tobago, millipedes of the genus Pandirodesmus were taken by MR on both islands. Samples of P. rutherfordi Shelley & Smith, 2015, from Tobago, were recovered in addition to those containing a new species from Trinidad: Pandirodesmus jaggernauthi sp. nov. Additional records, illustrations, and descriptive notes are given for P. rutherfordi. A key is presented to all three species of the genus, and their distributions are mapped.
Observational evidence of regional increasing hot extreme accelerated by surface energy partitioning
Authors: Wang Ren , Gentine Pierre , Li Longhui , Chen Jianyao , Ning Liang , Yuan Linwang , Lü Guonian
Published: February 2022

Land-atmosphere interactions play an important role in the changes of extreme climates, especially in hot spots of land-atmosphere coupling. One of the linkages in land-atmosphere interactions is the coupling between air temperature and surface energy fluxes associated with soil moisture variability, vegetation change, and human water/land management. However, existing studies on the coupling between hot extreme and surface energy fluxes are mainly based on the parameterized solution of climate model, which might not dynamically reflect all changes in the surface energy partitioning due to the effects of vegetation physiological control and human water/land management. In this study, for the first time, we used daily weather observations to identify hot spots where the daily hot extreme (i.e., the 99th percentile of maximum temperature, Tq99th) rises faster than local mean temperature (Tmean) during 1975–2017. Furthermore, we analyzed the relationship between the trends in temperature hot extreme relative to local average (ΔTq99th/ΔTmean) and the trends in evaporative fraction (ΔEF), i.e., the ratio of latent heat flux to surface available energy, using long-term latent and sensible heat fluxes which are informed by atmospheric boundary layer theory, machine learning, and ground-based observations of flux towers and weather stations. Hot spots of increase in ΔTq99th/ΔTmean are identified to be Europe, southwestern North America, Northeast Asia, and Southern Africa. The detected significant negative correlations between ΔEF and ΔTq99th/ΔTmean suggested that the hotspot regions are typically affected by annual/summer surface dryness. Our observation-driven findings have great implications in providing realistic observational evidences for the extreme climate change accelerated by surface energy partitioning.
Evaluating the Performance of Satellite-Based Precipitation Products Using Gauge Measurement and Hydrological Modeling: A Case Study in a Dry Basin of Northwest China
Authors: Liu Yi , Zheng Yuejun , Li Wenpeng , Zhou Tiantian
Published: February 2022

Satellite-based precipitation products are commonly evaluated using gauge measurement, yet their regional evaluation and hydrological applicability have not been sufficiently studied, especially for dry basins. In this study, we evaluated the performance of four state-of-the-art remotely sensed precipitation products (CMORPH, GSMaP, IMERG, and PERSIANN-CDR) and their ensemble products (the reliability ensemble averaging and three-cornered hat methods) over the Heihe River basin, northwest China. Both direct evaluation using gauge measurement during 2001–19 and indirect evaluation using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model during 2001–10 were conducted. Our results showed that 1) for point-to-pixel evaluation, GSMaP and IMERG products with high spatial resolution effectively captured the quantile distribution of gauge data; 2) compared to the spatially interpolated gauge data, all products underestimated the precipitation, among which GSMaP provided the closest interannual variability to the observations; 3) these products had better detection abilities upstream and during the rainy season, indicating that their performance was affected by the rain intensity—in particular, GSMaP exhibited the best ability; 4) the spatial patterns of individual products were inconsistent, while the ensemble products could reduce the bias with the gauge data; and 5) for hydrological modeling, streamflow simulation driven by GSMaP had the best performance, and the ensemble precipitation using the three-cornered hat method was better than that using the reliability ensemble averaging method. Collectively, these findings illustrated the reliability of GSMaP in representing the precipitation characteristics in similar arid areas and elucidated the advantages of using the three-cornered hat method.
Interannual Variations in Summer Extreme Precipitation Frequency over Northern Asia and Related Atmospheric Circulation Patterns
Authors: Hong Haixu , Sun Jianqi , Wang Huijun
Published: February 2022

This study investigates the spatial–temporal variations in summer extreme precipitation event (EPE) frequency over northern Asia and related atmospheric circulations. The division analysis indicates that three subregions of western Siberia (WS), eastern Siberia (ES), and eastern Mongolia–northeastern China can be identified, and the EPE variations over WS and ES are focused on here. On an interannual time scale, higher EPE frequencies are related to a similar dipole pattern in the upper troposphere [anomalous cyclone (anticyclone) to the west (southeast) of these two subregions] and a local anomalous cyclone in the lower troposphere. The dipole pattern leads to anomalous air divergence in the upper troposphere and compensating ascending motion over the subregions; the local anomalous cyclone in the lower troposphere leads to water vapor convergence. These anomalous atmospheric circulations therefore provide favorable dynamic and moisture conditions for higher EPE frequencies. Further analysis indicates that the WS EPE frequency is influenced by the combination of polar–Eurasian (POL) and North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) patterns, while the ES EPE frequency is influenced by Scandinavian (SCAND) [British–Baikal Corridor (BBC)] pattern over 1987–2004 (2005–15). The alternate influence on the ES EPE frequency may result from the interdecadal change in the structure of SCAND and BBC patterns. In addition, the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) shows enhanced influence on ES EPE frequency after the late 1990s, which could be due to interdecadal strengthening and extending of the anomalous cyclone around Lake Baikal. This cyclone is concurrent with EASM, and its changes favor water vapor transported by EASM to ES after the late 1990s.
Characterization of Internal Tide Incoherence: Eulerian versus Lagrangian Perspectives
Authors: Caspar-Cohen Zoé , Ponte Aurélien , Lahaye Noé , Carton Xavier , Yu Xiaolong , Gentil Sylvie Le
Published: February 2022

The Lagrangian and Eulerian surface current signatures of a low-mode internal tide propagating through a turbulent balanced flow are compared in idealized numerical simulations. Lagrangian and Eulerian total (i.e., coherent plus incoherent) tidal amplitudes are found to be similar. Compared to Eulerian diagnostics, the Lagrangian tidal signal is more incoherent with comparable or smaller incoherence time scales and larger incoherent amplitudes. The larger level of incoherence in Lagrangian data is proposed to result from the deformation of an Eulerian internal tide signal induced by drifter displacements. Based on the latter hypothesis, a theoretical model successfully predicts Lagrangian autocovariances by relating Lagrangian and Eulerian autocovariances and the properties of the internal tides and jet. These results have implications for the separation of balanced flow and internal tides signals in the sea level data collected by the future Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite mission.
Assimilating Retrieved Water Vapor and Radar Data from NCAR S-PolKa: Performance and Validation Using Real Cases
Authors: Do Phuong-Nghi , Chung Kao-Shen , Lin Pay-Liam , Ke Ching-Yin , Ellis Scott M.
Published: February 2022

This study investigated the effect of the assimilation of the S- and Ka-band dual‐wavelength-retrieved water vapor data with radial wind and reflectivity data. The vertical profile of humidity, which provides environmental information before precipitation occurs, was obtained at low levels and thinned into averaged and four-quadrant profiles. Additionally, the following two strategies were examined: 1) assimilation of water vapor data with radar data for the entire 2 h and 2) assimilation of water vapor data in the first hour, and radial velocity and reflectivity data in the second hour. By using the WRF local ensemble transform Kalman filter data assimilation system, three real cases of the Dynamics of the Madden–Julian Oscillation experiment were examined through a series of experiments. The analysis results revealed that assimilating additional water vapor data more markedly improved the analysis at the convective scale than assimilating radial wind and reflectivity data alone. In addition, the strategy of assimilating only retrieved water vapor data in the first hour and radial wind and reflectivity data in the second hour achieved the optimal analysis and subsequent very short-term forecast. The evaluation of quantitative precipitation forecasting demonstrated that assimilating additional retrieved water vapor data distinctly improved the rain forecast compared with assimilating radar data only. When moisture data were assimilated, improved nowcasting could be extended up to 4 h. Furthermore, assimilating moisture profiles into four quadrants achieved more accurate analysis and forecast. Overall, our study demonstrated that the humidify information in nonprecipitation areas is critical for further improving the analysis and forecast of convective weather systems.
Dementia Care for Europeans in Thailand: A Geography of Futures
Authors: Pratt Geraldine , Johnston Caleb
Published: February 2022

We explore the creation of private care facilities around Chiang Mai in northern Thailand to provide dementia care for people from the Global North. We draw on three periods of ethnographic observation at care facilities, and interviews with Swiss and British owners and family members, as well as Thai managers and care workers. We locate this offshoring of dementia care from the Global North to South within existing underfunding of dementia care in the Global North and a “regime of anticipation” built around expected substantial growth in the numbers of people living with dementia. These facilities are opening new futures for those who migrate for care as they leverage their relative wealth and privilege to purchase care in Thailand. In line with other readings of international health migration, we note the negative impact of this state-supported privatized industry on the availability of nurses and care aids in public hospitals in Thailand. We then venture into less examined and expected futurities, namely, the opportunities these facilities provide to two groups of stigmatized Thai workers: transgender and Indigenous Karen caregivers.
From Responsible Scholarship to Responsible Scholar
Authors: Lu Jane Wenzhen , Wei Li-Qun , Chen Ming-Jer
Published: February 2022

Joining the dialogue on the role of management scholars, we propose to cultivate all-round scholars to fulfill the needs of our stakeholders; only by becoming responsible scholars can we achieve responsible scholarship.
Book review: Yuen Yuen Ang, China’s Gilded Age: The Paradox of Economic Boom and Vast Corruption
Authors: Jargad Shruti
Published: February 2022

Yuen Yuen Ang, China’s Gilded Age: The Paradox of Economic Boom and Vast Corruption (Cambridge, MA: Cambridge University Press, 2020). XV + 257 pp., ₹3,512, ISBN: 978-1108478601 (Hardback).
Using a Passive Back Exoskeleton During a Simulated Sorting Task: Influence on Muscle Activity, Posture, and Heart Rate
Authors: Bär Mona , Luger Tessy , Seibt Robert , Rieger Monika A. , Steinhilber Benjamin
Published: February 2022

Objective

To evaluate using a back exoskeleton in a simulated sorting task in a static forward bent trunk posture on muscle activity, posture, and heart rate (HR).

Background

Potentials of exoskeletons for reducing musculoskeletal demands in work tasks need to be clarified.

Methods

Thirty-six healthy males performed the sorting task in 40°-forward bent static trunk posture for 90 seconds, in three trunk orientations, with and without exoskeleton. Muscle activity of the erector spinae (ES), biceps femoris (BF), trapezius descendens (TD), rectus abdominis (RA), vastus laterals (VL), and gastrocnemius medialis was recorded using surface electromyography normalized to a submaximal or maximal reference electrical activity (%RVE (reference voluntary electrical activity)/%MVE). Spine and lower limb postures were assessed by gravimetric position sensors, and HR by electrocardiography.

Results

Using the exoskeleton resulted in decreased BF muscle activity [−8.12%RVE], and minor changes in ES [−1.29%MVE], RA [−0.28%RVE], VL [−0.49%RVE], and TD [+1.13%RVE] muscle activity. Hip and knee flexion increased [+8.1°; +6.7°]. Heart rate decreased by 2.1 bpm. Trunk orientation had an influence on BF muscle activity.

Conclusion

Using the back exoskeleton in a short sorting task with static trunk posture mainly reduced hip extensor muscle activity and changed lower limb but not spine posture. Implications of using a back exoskeleton for workers’ musculoskeletal health need further clarification.

Application

The detected changes by using the Laevo® illustrate the need for further investigation prior to practical recommendations of using exoskeletons in the field. Investigating various work scenarios in different kind of workers and long-term applications would be important elements.
A modified three rail shear test procedure for rigid foamed materials
Authors: Taskin Melis , Sargin Tugce , Aliyev Raphiq , Cagdas Izzet U
Published: February 2022

In this study, a modified three rail shear test (or double shear test) procedure is described for the determination of the shear moduli and the shear strength values of rigid foamed materials and test results are presented for light extruded polystyrene, which is a typical core material used in sandwich construction. The main idea is to obtain a nearly uniform shear stress distribution in the shear test specimens by strengthening them against bending. First, using a finite element model, it is numerically shown that a nearly pure shear stress state may be obtained in the strengthened three rail shear test specimens. Then, it is shown that the finite element numerical results obtained for the strengthened specimens are in excellent agreement with the analytical results. Next, three rail shear tests are performed on bare and strengthened specimens and the experimental results obtained are presented in comparison with the analytical results. Also, clamped beam vibration and three-point bending tests are conducted to validate the shear modulus values obtained. The results obtained show that, the strengthened three rail shear test specimens yield more accurate results for both shear modulus, and strength comparing with the bare specimens.
Position Control of Gear Shift based on Sliding Mode Active Disturbance Rejection Control for Small-Sized Tractors
Authors: Jiang Chao , Yin Chengqiang , Gao Jie , Yuan Guanhao
Published: February 2022

A modified sliding mode active disturbance rejection control (MSMADRC) position system is designed for small-sized tractors to solve the longer shift time and reduced shifting quality because of the inaccurately motor control used for the automatic mechanical transmission (AMT) gear shift actuator. Firstly, the control model of the motor with total disturbance is established. Then an extended observer is presented to monitor the unmodeled dynamics and various disturbances of the system in real time, at the same time the extended state and the system feedback variables are constructed as the system variables of the sliding mode control (SMC) algorithm. Secondly, a sliding mode surface instead of the nonlinear control law in the active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) algorithm is designed, which realizes the fast and accurate tracking of the position. What's more, the stability of the control system is proved by Lyapunov theory. Lastly, the simulation results demonstrate that the position control precision by MSMADRC is higher 37% than by SMC and higher 75% than by ADRC. Furthermore, the response speed of MSMADRC is the fastest, it only takes about 0.7s.
Synodality and the Sacramental Mission of the Church: The Struggle for Communion in a World Divided by Colonialism and Neoliberal Globalization
Authors: Miller Vincent J.
Published: February 2022

This article examines an aspect of synodality that remains under-theorized: the expansion of listening and discernment beyond the church to the entire human community, facilitating attention to the “cries of the poor and the earth” that has the potential to engender forms of communication that current global structures neither facilitate nor allow. Synodality entails a struggle not only against ad intra obstacles such as clericalism and centralization but also against the relationship-constructing power of colonialism and neoliberalism. In this way, Pope Francis’s call for a “synodal Church” can be understood as developing the sacramental character of the church articulated in Lumen Gentium.
Incentivizing Full-Time Enrollment at Community Colleges: What Influences Students’ Decision to Take More Courses?
Authors: McKinney Lyle , Burridge Andrea Backscheider , Lee Mimi Miyoung , Bourdeau Gerald V. , Miller-Waters Melissa
Published: February 2022

Objective: Students’ enrollment intensity during their first academic semester and year are highly influential in their success and decisions to persist in community college. Limited research, however, has focused on understanding how students navigate the decision-making process of determining their credit load or how institutional support services, such as academic advising, influence these decisions. Our objective was to advance knowledge on this topic by examining the implementation of a 15 to Finish campaign to promote full-time enrollment at a large, racially/ethnically diverse community college system in Texas. Methods: We interviewed 24 students and eight academic advisors to identify key factors that influence recommendations for, and selection of, course load. The collection and analysis of the data employed the critical qualitative inquiry method, and data were analyzed through low- and high-level coding processes using reconstructive analysis. Results: The factors influencing student decision-making fall into three major areas: (1) academic performance, (2) financial considerations and other costs, and (3) advising experiences, with academic performance framing students’ discussion. Academic advisors agreed with the importance of full-time enrollment for students’ success and recognized the importance of reducing time-to-degree, but believed many students were not academically prepared or had too many commitments to enroll in 15 credits each semester. Conclusion: Consequently, a “one-more-course” approach may be more attractive for both students and advisors. We outline recommendations that better enable community college students to make optimal credit load decisions, which in turn can increase their academic momentum and chances for degree completion.
Privation of Inclusion: An Exploration of the Stealth and the Strategy that Sabotaged Racialized Public Servants’ Career Mobility in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Asey Farid
Published: February 2022

This paper qualitatively examines “privation of inclusion” at work in the lived experiences of racialized participants hired in publicly funded places of employment. Taking the position that the dualistic inclusion-exclusion paradigm fails to capture their lived realities with inclusive exclusions and exclusive inclusions, it presents privative inclusion as a third space, between inclusion and exclusion, for a more robust framework in understanding how racialized bodies were marked and targeted for differential treatment. The paper then outlines and discusses findings as key indicators of privative mechanisms that had undermined life chances by limiting career mobility of racialized participants of this study. It concludes by emphasizing the need for additional research in this area given the salience of racism at work as well as the demographic changes that Canada is currently experiencing.
Quality of Life and Functionality of Head and Neck Cancer Patients Are Diminished As a Function of Sarcopenia and Obesity
Authors: Martínez-Herrera Brenda-Eugenia , Trujillo-Hernández Benjamín , Sat-Muñoz Daniel , González-Barba Faviola , Cruz-corona Eduardo , Bayardo-López Luis Héctor , Solórzano-Meléndez Alejandro , Oñate-Zubdia David-Abdiel , Morán-Galavíz Ruben-Eduardo , Flores-Carlos Juan-Daniel , Dávalos-Cobián Carlos , Salazar-Páramo Mario , Nava-Zavala Arnulfo-Hernán , Gómez-Sánchez Eduardo , Balderas-Peña Luz-Ma-Adriana
Published: February 2022

Background

Health-related quality of life (QoL) is a measure that allows us to know the patient’s perception of well-being and how it is affected by their disease and treatments. In cancer patients, sarcopenia has been associated with low scores on various instruments used to assess the QoL; however, little information is available on the effects of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity on the QoL of patients with head and neck cancer (H&NC).

Methods

In this cross-sectional study with 71 H&NC patients aged between 40 and 80 years, we describe the scores on the instruments EORTC QLQ C-30 and EORTC QLQ-H&N35 according to the sarcopenia phenotype (NSG, nonsarcopenic group; SG, sarcopenic group; and SOG, sarcopenic obesity group), hand-grip strength, gait speed, total lymphocyte count, albumin, cholesterol and C-reactive protein, and the relationships between these variables.

Results

The prevalence of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity was 48% and 28%, respectively. The QoL analysis showed that NSG had higher scores on the physical functioning scale [NSG 93 (83–100); SG 73 (52–88); SOG 83 (53–93), P = .009] and lower scores on the fatigue scale [NSG 11 (0–22); S 39 (30–67); SOG 44 (14–56); P = .004]. The NSG had a higher hand-grip strength (31.1 kg) than SG (24.1 kg, P = .007) and SOG (26.3 kg, P = .001), and a lower C-reactive protein. The SG and SOG showed no differences between them.

Conclusions

Patients with sarcopenia or sarcopenic obesity have lower physical performance and a higher level of fatigue than nonsarcopenic patients. This loss of function can maintain or worsen sarcopenia due to the patient’s self-restraint in physical exertion that encourages an increase in muscle tissue.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Americans’ Attitudes toward China: Does Local Incidence Rate Matter?
Authors: He Qian , Zhang Ziye , Xie Yu
Published: February 2022

Linking local COVID-19 and population statistics to a U.S.-based survey we recently conducted, we examine the spatial variation in the impact of COVID-19 on Americans’ attitudes toward China. The research strategy capitalizes on differential local COVID-19 incidence rates as varying dosages of COVID-19 impact across local contexts in the United States. Our results reveal negative yet heterogeneous effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on Americans’ attitudes toward China. We find that greater local exposure to COVID-19 is associated with a lower level of trust in Chinese and a less favorable attitude toward China. These findings lend consistent support to behavioral immune system theory by bridging the literature on contextual variations in public attitudes, with broader implications for U.S.-China relations.
Psychometric approaches to analyzing C-tests
Authors: Alpizar David , Li Tongyun , Norris John M. , Gu Lixiong
Published: February 2022

The C-test is a type of gap-filling test designed to efficiently measure second language proficiency. The typical C-test consists of several short paragraphs with the second half of every second word deleted. The words with deleted parts are considered as items nested within the corresponding paragraph. Given this testlet structure, it is commonly taken for granted that the C-test design may violate the local independence assumption. However, this assumption has not been fully investigated in the C-test research to date, including the evaluation of alternative psychometric models (i.e., unidimensional and multidimensional) to calibrate and score the C-test. This study addressed each of these issues using a large data set of responses to an English-language C-test. First, we examined the local item independence assumption via multidimensional item response theory (IRT) models, Yen’s Q3, and Jackknife Slope Index. Second, we evaluated several IRT models to determine optimal approaches to scoring the C-test. The results support an interpretation of unidimensionality for the C-test items within a paragraph, with only minor evidence of local item dependence. Furthermore, the two-parameter logistic (2PL) IRT model was found to be the most appropriate model for calibrating and scoring the C-test. Implications for designing, scoring, and analyzing C-tests are discussed.
Local English testing in China’s tertiary education: Contexts, policies, and practices
Authors: Fan Jason , Frost Kellie , Jin Yan
Published: February 2022

Accompanying the still pervasive influence of the College English Test (CET), some universities in China, especially the higher-ranking ones, have in recent years devised and implemented their own local English testing regimes. This significant shift, however, has captured limited research attention. Building on considerations in local language testing and adopting a broad view of language tests as embedded within policy spaces, we examined the policy and curricular contexts surrounding the introduction of local testing regimes, the local testing practices that emerged from these contexts, and stakeholders’ reactions to changes in local testing practices at China’s universities. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with local testing project coordinators from five prominent universities in China. Our findings revealed two contrasting approaches to local testing, each implemented to promote productive English skills, widely associated with university-level internationalisation efforts, and to better align assessment practices with university-specific student cohorts and College English (CE) teaching programmes. Each local testing regime was characterised by different processes of test development and implementation, and its tensions and challenges. This study provides important insights into the situated nature of local testing policies and practices in Chinese universities, highlighting the affordances and constraints offered by different approaches to local testing.
Anticoagulation practices associated with bleeding and thrombosis in pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; a multi-center secondary analysis
Authors: Bailly David K , Reeder Ron W , Muszynski Jennifer A , Meert Kathleen L , Ankola Ashish A , Alexander Peta MA , Pollack Murray M , Moler Frank W , Berg Robert A , Carcillo Joseph , Newth Christopher , Berger John , Bell Michael J , Dean J M , Nicholson Carol , Garcia-Filion Pamela , Wessel David , Heidemann Sabrina , Doctor Allan , Harrison Rick , Dalton Heidi , Zuppa Athena F
Published: February 2022

To determine associations between anticoagulation practices and bleeding and thrombosis during pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), we performed a secondary analysis of prospectively collected data which included 481 children (<19 years), between January 2012 and September 2014. The primary outcome was bleeding or thrombotic events. Bleeding events included a blood product transfusion >80 ml/kg on any day, pulmonary hemorrhage, or intracranial bleeding, Thrombotic events included pulmonary emboli, intracranial clot, limb ischemia, cardiac clot, and arterial cannula or entire circuit change. Bleeding occurred in 42% of patients. Five percent of subjects thrombosed, of which 89% also bled. Daily bleeding odds were independently associated with day prior activated clotting time (ACT) (OR 1.03, 95% CI= 1.00, 1.05, p=0.047) and fibrinogen levels (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.84, 0.96, p <0.001). Thrombosis odds decreased with increased day prior heparin dose (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.81, 0.97, p=0.006). Lower ACT values and increased fibrinogen levels may be considered to decrease the odds of bleeding. Use of this single measure, however, may not be sufficient alone to guide optimal anticoagulation practice during ECMO.
Head-to-head comparison of ventilation/perfusion single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography and multidetector computed tomography angiography for the detection of acute pulmonary embolism in clinical practice
Authors: Martins Gustavo H , Contardi Ewandro B , Lopes Djon M , de Souza Thiago F , Grangeia Tiago AG , Dertkigil Sergio SJ , Amorim Bárbara J , Ramos Celso D
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Computed tomography angiography (CTA) and ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) single photon emission computed tomography/CT (SPECT/CT) images have been widely used to detect PE, but few studies have performed a direct comparison between them. We aimed to evaluate the performance of these tests in the same group of patients, selected from the routine practice of a general hospital.

Methods

Patients with suspected acute PE were prospectively submitted to CTA and V/Q SPECT/CT. General radiologists and nuclear physicians, respectively, interpreted the images. Data regarding age, sex, time between examinations, symptoms, and Wells score were also recorded. The final diagnosis was decided through a consensus among the clinicians, taking into account clinical, laboratory, follow-up, and all imaging procedures data.

Results

Twenty-eight patients (15 male, 13 female, and median age of 51.5 years) were studied. Median duration of the onset of symptoms was 4 (1–14) days, and the median Wells score was 3.5 (1.5–6). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy were 84.6%, 80.0%, 78.6%, 85.7%, and 82.1% for V/Q SPECT/CT, and 46.1%, 100%, 100%, 68.2%, and 75.0% for CTA. The overall agreement between the methods was 57.1%. Of the 22 patients with negative CTA, 10 (45.4%) had positives V/Q SPECT/CT and seven of them classified as true positives.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that V/Q SPECT/CT is more sensitive and accurate than CTA when interpreted by general radiologists and nuclear medicine physicians.
Predictive role of C-reactive protein in sudden death: a meta-analysis of prospective studies
Authors: Zhou Ruhua , Xu Jingjing , Luan Jiaochen , Wang Weiyun , Tang Xinzhi , Huang Yanling , Su Ziwen , Yang Lei , Gu Zejuan
Published: February 2022

Objective

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a powerful predictor of and risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, the relationship between CRP and sudden death (SD) is controversial. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the association between CRP and SD.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of the databases of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, Wanfang, CNKI, China Biology Medicine disc, and Weipu. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and evaluated the data quality. The overall effect size was meta-analyzed using Stata software version 12.0 (StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA).

Results

Twelve prospective studies involving 36,646 patients were included in the present meta-analysis. The data revealed that patients with higher CRP concentrations had a greater risk of SD (hazard ratio, 1.19; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–1.29). When the hazard ratio of SD was calculated by multivariate analysis of nine studies, CRP was confirmed to be an independent predictive factor for SD (hazard ratio, 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.07).

Conclusions

This meta-analysis confirmed that CRP is an independent predictor of SD. These results support the recommendation of recording the CRP concentration for risk assessment of SD in clinical practice.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection-based suture combined with medical adhesive for complicated tuberculous bronchoesophageal fistula: a case report
Authors: Yang Jian , Zeng Yan , Zhang Junwen
Published: February 2022

Tuberculous bronchoesophageal fistula is a rare complication of tuberculosis. Herein, we report the case of a woman in her late 60s with a choking cough for more than 1 month. Iohexol esophagography revealed a fistulous communication between the esophagus and the right principal bronchus, and gastroscopy documented a fistulous orifice in the esophagus. Endoscopic closure with metal clips failed, and other treatment options, such as extended conservative treatment, covered self-expandable metal stents, and over-the-scope clips were rejected by the patient. Therefore, a combined therapy, endoscopic submucosal dissection-based suture combined with medical adhesive, was performed. Follow-up iohexol esophagography and gastroscopy confirmed fistula closure. During 1 year of follow-up after discharge, the bronchoesophageal fistula did not recur. Endoscopic submucosal dissection-based suture combined with medical adhesive appears to be a practical and feasible solution to complicated tuberculous bronchoesophageal fistula.
Th17/Treg balance and indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase activity in periodontitis-associated atherosclerotic patients
Authors: Yang Jie , Hao Ting , Liu Yu , Huang Jin , Wu Wenlei , Wu Juan , Sun Weibin
Published: February 2022

Objective

This study investigated the peripheral Th17/Treg balance and its potential controlling factor indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO) in patients with periodontitis and atherosclerosis (AS), as well as its correlation with Porphyromonas gingivalis infection.

Methods

In this retrospective study, P. gingivalis-infected atherosclerotic patients (Pg-AS), atherosclerotic patients (AS), P. gingivalis-infected periodontitis patients (Pg), and healthy controls (HCs) were selected after clinical examination, subgingival plaque examination, and plasma anti- P. gingivalis antibody analysis. Treg and Th17 cell percentages, related transcription factors, and functional cytokines in peripheral blood were analysed. Plasma tryptophan (Trp) and kynurenine (Kyn) were measured to determine IDO activity.

Results

Atherosclerotic patients (Pg-AS and AS groups) had significantly lower IDO activity and higher Th17/Treg ratio than those in the Pg and HC groups. The Th17/Treg ratio was higher and IDO activity was lower in the Pg-AS group compared with the AS group. Transcription factors and cytokines exhibited the same trend as the Th17 and Treg cells. Additionally, IDO activity was negatively correlated with the plasma anti- P. gingivalis antibody titre and the Th17/Treg ratio in the atherosclerotic group.

Conclusions

P. gingivalis may reduce IDO activity and further promote Th17/Treg imbalance to facilitate AS development. IDO may be a novel molecular marker to predict periodontitis-associated AS.
Association of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene variant C677T with serum homocysteine levels and the severity of ischaemic stroke: a case–control study in the southwest of China
Authors: Huang Lu-Wen , Li Lin-Lin , Li Juan , Chen Xiao-Rong , Yu Ming
Published: February 2022

Objective

To determine whether the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase ( MTHFR) C677T gene polymorphism is linked to the risk of ischaemic stroke and circulating homocysteine (Hcy) levels in a Chinese population.

Methods

This case–control study recruited angiogram-diagnosed patients with ischaemic stroke and healthy control subjects. The plasma Hcy concentrations were measured and the MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism was genotyped. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) was used to assess the severity of the ischaemic stroke.

Results

This study recruited 198 patients with ischaemic stroke and 168 controls. The TT genotype conferred a higher risk for ischaemic stroke than the CC genotype (odds ratio of 3.563; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.412, 4.350). The T allele was the predisposing allele for ischaemic stroke. Hcy had an area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.624 (95% CI 0.530, 0.758). The ROC for Hcy demonstrated its usefulness in predicting ischaemic stroke. Hcy levels were not associated with ischaemic stroke severity as measured by the NIHSS.

Conclusion

The MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism affects circulating Hcy levels. The MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism and hyperhomocysteinaemia may play important roles in predicting the risk of ischaemic stroke.
Comparison of the clinical parameters of patients with COVID-19 and influenza using blood test data: a retrospective cross-sectional survey
Authors: Fukui Sayato , Inui Akihiro , Saita Mizue , Kobayashi Daiki , Naito Toshio
Published: February 2022

Objective

The characteristic features, including blood test data, of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) versus influenza have not been defined. We therefore compared the clinical parameters, including blood test data, of COVID-19 and influenza.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional survey was conducted at Juntendo University Nerima Hospital. We recruited patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2020 who underwent blood tests. For comparison, we recruited an equivalent number of patients who were diagnosed with influenza and who underwent blood tests.

Results

During the study period, 228 patients (male:female, 123 [54.0%]:105 [46.0%]; age, 54.68 ± 18.98 years) were diagnosed with COVID-19. We also recruited 228 patients with influenza (male:female, 129 [56.6%]:99 [43.4%]; age, 69.6 ± 21.25 years). An age of 15 to 70 years (vs. 71 years), breathing difficulty, and malaise were significantly more common in patients with COVID-19 than in those with influenza. However, nausea, body temperature >38.1°C, and white blood cell count >9000/μL were more common in patients with influenza.

Conclusions

Our results are useful for differentiating COVID-19 from influenza, and these findings will be extremely helpful for future practice as we learn to coexist with COVID-19.
Effectiveness of client-centered intervention delivered with face-to-face and telerehabilitation method after total knee arthroplasty—A pilot randomized control trial
Authors: Torpil Berkan , Kaya Özgür
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) negatively affects the quality of life, perceived occupational performance, and satisfaction. Face-to-face rehabilitation services have been adversely affected by problems such as time, cost, accessibility, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The telerehabilitation (TR) method is recommended for these problems. This pilot study was planned to examine the comparison of client-centered (CC) intervention with TR and face-to-face (FF) method on quality of life, perceived occupational performance, and satisfaction after TKA.

Methods

Forty-eight older adults that after TKA (13 men and 35 women) were randomized to the TR group ( n = 24; 68.25 ± 3.32 years) or FF group ( n = 24; 68.91 ± 2.56 years). The Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) was used to assess the quality of life, and the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) was used to assess perceived occupational performance and satisfaction.

Results

There was no difference in all parameters between the groups before and after the intervention program (p > .05). The intervention consisting of 4 days a week for 4 weeks and 45 min sessions applied with both methods had a strong effect size (p < .001 for all).

Conclusion

As a result, CC intervention applied with both methods in the first postoperative week increased quality of life, perceived occupational performance, and satisfaction. Trail Registration: NCT04969432