bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Resisting Extortion—From Everyday Resistance to Vigilantism
Authors: Ley Sandra
Published: June 2023

Resisting Extortion, by Eduardo Moncada, masterfully disentangles the logic and dimensions of criminal extortion, as well as the various ways in which communities seek to resist this and other forms of criminal activity. In this book, Moncada argues that criminals’ time horizons largely dictate the subsequent forms of civil resistance, which are simultaneously affected by the criminal capture of the police, as well as the prevailing relationships among local businesses and between businesses and political authorities. With major conceptual clarity, Moncada disentangles and reframes the complex phenomena that underlie extortion dynamics. Through careful comparative research, Moncada provides a new and fresh understanding of both extortion and collective action, across three different countries. Resisting Extortion is a major contribution at different levels, from theory development to comparative analysis, as well as a robust research design and extensive fieldwork. Readers across academic fields, along with activists and journalists, will benefit from the book’s insights on the effective organization and resistance strategies in the face of crime and insecurity.
Engineered Staphylococcus auricularis Cas9 with high‐fidelity
Authors: Wei Nan , Shang Lu , Liu Jing , Wang Mi , Liu Yingchun , Zhu Chuangang , Fei Chenzhong , Zhang Lifang , Yang Fayu , Gu Feng
Published: June 2023

CRISPR‐Cas9 is a versatile gene editing tool with a broad application of basic research and clinical therapeutics. However, the potential impact caused by off‐target effects remains a critical bottleneck. The small Cas9 ortholog from Staphylococcus auricularis (SauriCas9) was identified, which recognizes a 5′‐NNGG‐3′ protospacer adjacent motif (PAM), exhibiting high activity for genome editing. Recently, we also reported enhanced‐fidelity Staphylococcus aureus Cas9 (efSaCas9), which harbors a single mutation N260D. Protein sequence alignment revealed that SauriCas9 has 62.4% sequence identity with SaCas9. Because SauriCas9 is more flexible in recognizing the target sequence with PAM of 5′‐NNGG‐3′ than SaCas9 of 5′‐NNGRRT‐3′ PAM, we sought to test whether key mutation(N260D) or adjacent residue mutation in efSaCas9 can be appliable to SauriCas9. With this concept, two engineered SauriCas9 variants (SauriCas9‐HF1, harboring the N269D mutation; SauriCas9‐HF2, harboring the D270N mutation) dramatically improved targeting specificity by targeted deep sequencing and GUIDE‐seq. At certain sites, reduced off‐target effects (approximately 61.6‐ and 111.9‐fold improvements) of SauriCas9‐HF2 compared with wild‐type SauriCas9 were observed. Overall, two identified SauriCas9 variants (SauriCas9‐HF1 and SauriCas9‐HF2) expand the utility of the CRISPR toolkit for research and therapeutic applications.
Professional Development in Health Sciences: Scoping Review on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Indigeneity, and Accessibility Interventions
Authors: Liblik Kiera , Desai Veeral , Yin Grace , Ng Rebecca , Maho Sigi , Cohen Natasha , Soleas Eleftherios K.
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Equity, diversity, inclusion, indigeneity, and accessibility (EDIIA) are critical considerations in the formation of professional development (PD) programs for health care workers. Improving EDIIA competency in health care serves to enhance patient health, staff confidence and well-being, delivery of care, and the broader health care system. There is a gap in the literature as to the efficacy of EDIIA-based PD programs and their individual components. The present article will review available quantitative data pertaining to EDIIA-based PD programs for health care workers as well as their effectiveness.

Methods:

A scoping review of articles published in the EBSCOhost, MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases was performed. We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement.

Results:

A total of 14,316 references were identified with 361 reaching full-text review. A final 36 articles were included in the scoping review with 6552 total participants (72.9% women; 26.9% men; 0.2% nonbinary). EDIIA-based PD interventions were developed around the topics of culture (n = 22), gender (n = 11), sexual orientation (n = 9), indigeneity (n = 6), race (n = 6), ableism (n = 1), and ageism (n = 1).

Discussion:

Despite an increased interest in developing EDIIA-based PD curricula for health care workers, there are glaring disparities in the quality of care received by marginalized and equity-seeking populations. The present scoping review delineated key features which were associated with increased quantitative efficacy of EDIIA-based PD training programs. Future work should focus on large-scale implementation and evaluation of these interventions across health care sectors and levels of training.
REDH: A database of RNA editome in hematopoietic differentiation and malignancy
Authors: Xu Jiayue , He Jiahuan , Yang Jiabin , Wang Fengjiao , Huo Yue , Guo Yuehong , Si Yanmin , Gao Yufeng , Wang Fang , Cheng Hui , Cheng Tao , Yu Jia , Wang Xiaoshuang , Ma Yanni
Published: June 2023

Background:

The conversion of adenosine (A) to inosine (I) through deamination is the prevailing form of RNA editing, impacting numerous nuclear and cytoplasmic transcripts across various eukaryotic species. Millions of high-confidence RNA editing sites have been identified and integrated into various RNA databases, providing a convenient platform for the rapid identification of key drivers of cancer and potential therapeutic targets. However, the available database for integration of RNA editing in hematopoietic cells and hematopoietic malignancies is still lacking.

Methods:

We downloaded RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data of 29 leukemia patients and 19 healthy donors from National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and RNA-seq data of 12 mouse hematopoietic cell populations obtained from our previous research were also used. We performed sequence alignment, identified RNA editing sites, and obtained characteristic editing sites related to normal hematopoietic development and abnormal editing sites associated with hematologic diseases.

Results:

We established a new database, "REDH", represents RNA editome in hematopoietic differentiation and malignancy. REDH is a curated database of associations between RNA editome and hematopoiesis. REDH integrates 30,796 editing sites from 12 murine adult hematopoietic cell populations and systematically characterizes more than 400,000 edited events in malignant hematopoietic samples from 48 cohorts (human). Through the Differentiation, Disease, Enrichment, and knowledge modules, each A-to-I editing site is systematically integrated, including its distribution throughout the genome, its clinical information (human sample), and functional editing sites under physiological and pathological conditions. Furthermore, REDH compares the similarities and differences of editing sites between different hematologic malignancies and healthy control.

Conclusions:

REDH is accessible at http://www.redhdatabase.com/. This user-friendly database would aid in understanding the mechanisms of RNA editing in hematopoietic differentiation and malignancies. It provides a set of data related to the maintenance of hematopoietic homeostasis and identifying potential therapeutic targets in malignancies.
9-Minute Withdrawal Time Improves Adenoma Detection Rate Compared With 6-Minute Withdrawal Time During Colonoscopy
Authors: Aziz Muhammad , Haghbin Hossein , Gangwani Manesh Kumar , Nawras Mohamad , Nawras Yusuf , Dahiya Dushyant Singh , Sohail Amir Humza , Lee-Smith Wade , Kamal Faisal , Shaukat Aasma
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Adenoma detection rate (ADR) is a quality metric that has been emphasized by multiple societies as improved ADR leads to reduced interval colorectal cancer (CRC). It is postulated that increased withdrawal time (WT) can lead to higher ADR. Multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were undertaken to evaluate this. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs to analyze the impact of higher WT on ADR during colonoscopy.

Methods:

The following databases were comprehensively searched through November 8, 2022: Embase, MEDLINE, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Only RCTs were eligible for inclusion. We applied the random effects model using the DerSimonian Laird approach and calculated risk ratio (RR) for binary outcomes and mean difference (MD) for continuous outcomes. 95% CI and P values were generated.

Results:

A total of 3 RCTs with 2159 patients were included of which 1136 patients were included in the 9-minute withdrawal group (9WT) and 1023 patients in the 6-minute withdrawal group (6WT). The mean age range was 53.6 to 56.8 years and the male gender was 50.7%. The overall ADR was significantly higher for 9WT (RR=1.23; 95% CI, 1.09-1.40; P<0.001). The overall adenoma per colonoscopy (APC) was also higher for the 9WT group (MD: 0.14; 95% CI, 0.04-0.25; P=0.008).

Conclusion:

The 9-minute withdrawal time improved ADR and APC compared with the 6-minute withdrawal. Given the high-quality evidence, we recommend that clinicians at least perform a 9-minute withdrawal to achieve higher quality metrics including ADR to reduce interval CRC.
Clinical predictors and outcomes of non-expandable lung following percutaneous catheter drainage in lung cancer patients with malignant pleural effusion
Authors: Kim Chang Ho , Park Ji Eun , Cha Jung Guen , Park Jongmin , Choi Sun Ha , Seo Hyewon , Yoo Seung Soo , Lee Shin Yup , Cha Seung Ick , Park Jae Yong , Lim Jae Kwang , Lee Jaehee
Published: June 2023

Non-expandable lung (NEL) often occurs during pleural fluid drainage in patients with malignant pleural effusion (MPE). However, data regarding the predictors and prognostic impact of NEL on primary lung cancer patients with MPE receiving pleural fluid drainage, compared to malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), are limited. This study was aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of lung cancer patients with MPE developing NEL following ultrasonography (USG)-guided percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) and compare the clinical outcomes between those with and without NEL. Clinical, laboratory, pleural fluid, and radiologic data and survival outcomes of lung cancer patients with MPE undergoing USG-guided PCD were retrospectively reviewed and compared between those with and without NEL. Among 121 primary lung cancer patients with MPE undergoing PCD, NEL occurred in 25 (21%). Higher pleural fluid lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels and presence of endobronchial lesions were associated with development of NEL. The median time to catheter removal was significantly extended in those with NEL compared to those without (P = .014). NEL was significantly associated with poor survival outcome in lung cancer patients with MPE undergoing PCD, along with poor Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS), the presence of distant metastasis, higher serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and not receiving chemotherapy. NEL developed in one-fifth of lung cancer patients undergoing PCD for MPE and was associated with high pleural fluid LDH levels and the presence of endobronchial lesions. NEL may negatively affect overall survival in lung cancer patients with MPE receiving PCD.
Application of high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy in patient with pulmonary edema following cesarean-section under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia: A case report
Authors: Lee Taeil , Shinn Helen Ki , Kim Na Eun , Kim Doyeon
Published: June 2023

Background:

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC), which overcomes the disadvantages of the existing low flow mask, is an efficient method that can immediately provide a high volume of heated oxygen to the patient.[1] Therefore, this case reports a case in which HFNC was applied to a pregnant with acute respiratory failure.

Case:

A 37-year-old woman pregnant (GA 30 + 5 weeks) with twin was diagnosed with preeclampsia. It was decided to perform an emergency Cesarean-section under combined spinal-epidural technique worsening respiratory failure. After delivery, maternal dyspnea was not alleviated applying of O28 L/min via facial mask. Thus, high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy was applied (60 L/min, partial pressure of oxygen (FiO2) 80%) and SpO2 subsequently rose to 98% and the patient’s dyspnea was resolved.

Conclusions:

HFNC is a safe device that can effectively provide oxygen to pregnant with acute respiratory failure.
Optimal procedure and characteristics in using five times sit to stand test among older adults: A systematic review
Authors: Albalwi Abdulaziz Aoudh , Alharbi Ahmad Abdullah
Published: June 2023

Background:

Falls are a major concern for people of all ages, especially older adults with declining physical functions and deteriorating muscle strength. The Five Times Sit to Stand Test is used for the assessment of lower limb strength along with balance and postural control. Therefore, the systematic review at hand aimed to determine the optimal procedure and characteristics among older adults.

Methods:

The following databases served as the primary sources through which the target studies were searched for and obtained for review. They included Google Scholar, Pedro, BIOMED Central, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, PUBMED and Science DIRECT. With the aim of fulfilling the eligibility criteria, 16 full-text studies were included and the quality assessment was performed. using the Thomas Tool.

Results:

The total number of the subjects who participated in the included studies was 15,130 and the ages of the aforementioned participants ranged from 60 to 80 years. In 15 of the studies, a stopwatch was used as the scoring method where the mean chair height of 42 cm was reported. Two studies reported that no significant influence of the arm position (P = .096) on the time allocated for test completion was identified. However, posterior foot placement (P < .001) led to shorter times of completion. Individuals who are unable to complete the test are more susceptible to activities of daily living related disabilities (P < .01) when compared to fall risk (P = .09).

Conclusion:

The Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test is a safe test, providing added value to apply risk for falls in people at moderate risk and in healthy populations using standardized chair heights and stopwatches.
Effect of different lymph node dissection methods on the number of lymph nodes detected and prognosis in gallbladder cancer
Authors: Tang Xinguo , Zheng Kangpeng , Huang Jian , Hu Wei , Xu Liangzhi , Xu Qi , Fan Yuting , Liu Jinghang , Li Bowen , Ran Longjian , Liu Tiande , Liang Bo , Xiong Hu , Li Wen , Fu Xiaowei , Fang Lu
Published: June 2023

At present, the extent of lymph node dissection (LND) for radical gallbladder cancer (GBC) is still controversial, and there is no evidence that LND improves prognosis, however, the latest guidelines for GBC recommend that removal of more than 6 lymph nodes facilitates staging of regional lymph nodes. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of different LND methods on the number of lymph nodes detected and assess the prognostic factors during radical resection of GBC. This study retrospectively analyzed 133 patients (46 men and 87 women; average age: 64.01, range: 40–83 years) who underwent radical resection of GBC in a single center between July 2017 and July 2022, of which 41 underwent fusion lymph node dissection (FLND) and 92 underwent standard lymph node dissection (SLND). Baseline data, surgical results, number of LNDs, and follow-up data were analyzed. Each patient was followed up every 3 months. The total number of lymph nodes detected after the operation was 12.00 ± 6.95 versus 6.10 ± 4.71 (P < .05). The number of positive lymph nodes detected was (mean) 1.85 versus 0.78 and (percentage) 15.45% versus 12.83% (P < .05). Postoperative complications (8 vs 23, P > .05). The progression-free survival was 13 versus 8 months, the median survival time was 17 versus 9 months (P < .05). This study concluded that FLND can increase the detection rate of total lymph nodes and positive lymph nodes after surgery, which can prolong the survival time of patients.
Effect of Chinese Medicines combined with transarterial chemoembolization on primary hepatic carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Jianyuan , Shan Yue , Zhang Chenxia , Hong Zehua , Qiu Yuanwang
Published: June 2023

Background:

To systematically evaluate the survival rate and postoperative adverse reactions of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma treated with traditional Chinese medicine combined with TACE by meta-analysis.

Methods:

Four major literature databases (Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science) were retrieved to collect published English articles since 2009. After determining the random effect model or fixed utility model based on a heterogeneity test, odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results:

This meta-analysis included 8 prospective studies published between 2009 and 2019. Due to moderate heterogeneity (P < .05, I
2 = 54.8%), Therefore, the random effect model is used to analyze the data, so as to explore the relationship between CMs combined with TACE treatment and survival rate and postoperative adverse reactions. All the comprehensive test results show that there is a statistical significance between CMs combined with TACE treatment and survival rate. (OR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.34–2.64, P = .03). Then subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were carried out. The results indicated that the overall results ranged from 1.12(95% CI = 1.03–1.11) to 1.21(95% CI = 1.22–1.33).

Conclusions:

The 1-year survival rate of patients treated with traditional Chinese medicine TACE is a protective factor, and the quality score included in the study affects the evaluation of the effective dose. At the same time, traditional Chinese medicine combined with TACE has nothing to do with the reduction of postoperative complications.
Amplatzer amulet versus watchman device for percutaneous left atrial appendage closure: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jaiswal Vikash , Ang Song Peng , Shrestha Abhigan Babu , Wajid Zarghoona , Endurance Evbayekha Osas , Ayoobkhan Fathima Shehnaz , Khan Shazia , Garimellla Vamsi , Huang Helen , Ghanim Mohammed , Song David , Sharma Prachi , Alraies M. Chadi , Biswas Monodeep
Published: June 2023

Background:

The Amplatzer Amulet (AA) and Watchman devices (WD) are the 2 most frequently used devices for percutaneous LAA closure globally.

Objective:

To evaluate the safety and clinical outcomes associated with these 2 devices in patients undergoing percutaneous LAA closure.

Method:

We systematically searched all electronic databases from inception until February 21, 2023. The primary endpoint was procedure related complications. Secondary endpoints were device related thrombus, stroke, cardiovascular mortality, peri device leak, systemic embolism, and all-cause mortality.

Results:

A total of 3 randomized clinical trials with 2150 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The mean age was 75 and 76 years in the Amplatzer group and in the Watchman group, respectively. The odds of procedure-related complications (OR, 1.80 [95% CI: 1.21–2.67], P < .001) were significantly higher among patients with AA compared to the WD. However, the odds of all-cause mortality (OR, 0.75 (95% CI: 0.49–1.16), P = .20), stroke (OR, 0.79 [95% CI: 0.47–1.34], P = .39), systemic/pulmonary embolism (OR, 1.34 [95% CI: 0.30–6.04], P = .70), and major bleeding (OR, 1.10 [95% CI: 0.83–1.48], P = .50) were comparable between the two devices. The odds of device related thrombus (OR, 0.72 [95% CI: 0.46–1.14], P = .17) was comparable between both the group of patients, however the incidence of peri device leak was significantly lower in AA group (OR, 0.41 [95% CI: 0.26–0.66], P < .001) compared with WD group of patients.

Conclusion:

The AA was not superior to the Watchman device in terms of safety and efficacy. However, the Amulet occluder was associated with a higher incidence of procedure-related complications, and lower peri device leak.
The comparable efficacy of denosumab on bone mineral density in rheumatoid arthritis patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis: A retrospective case-control study
Authors: Kim Seong-Kyu , Kim Ji-Won , Lee Hwajeong , Park Sung-Hoon , Choe Jung-Yoon , Kim Boyoung
Published: June 2023

Little is known about differences in the therapeutic efficacy of denosumab in subjects with and without rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study compares the changes in bone mineral density (BMD) between RA patients and controls without RA who had been treated with denosumab for 2 years for postmenopausal osteoporosis. A total of 82 RA patients and 64 controls were enrolled, who were refractory to selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) or bisphosphonates and completed the treatment of denosumab 60 mg for 2 years. The efficacy of denosumab in RA patients and controls was assessed using areal BMD (aBMD) and T-score of the lumbar spine, femur neck, and total hip. A general linear model with repeated measures analysis of variance was used to determine differences in aBMD and T-score between 2 study groups. No significant differences in percent changes in aBMD and T-scores by denosumab treatment for 2 years at the lumbar spine, femur neck, and total hip were evident between RA patients and controls (P > .05 of all), except T-score of the total hip (P = .034). Denosumab treatment equally increased aBMD at the lumbar spine and T-scores at the lumbar spine and total hip between RA patients and controls without statistical differences, but RA patients showed less improvement in aBMD at the femur neck (p
time*group = 0.032) and T-scores at the femur neck and total hip than controls (p
time*group = 0.004 of both). Changes in aBMD and T-scores after denosumab treatment in RA patients were not affected by previous use of bisphosphonates or SERMs. Differences of T-score at the femur neck among previous bisphosphonate users and aBMD and T-score at the femur neck and T-scores at the total hip were evident. This study revealed that 2 years of denosumab treatment in female RA patients achieved comparable efficacy on BMD to controls at the lumbar spine, but showed somewhat insufficient improvement at the femur neck and total hip.
PD-L1 and TILs expression and their association with clinicopathological characteristics in Vietnamese women with primary invasive breast cancer
Authors: Huynh Chau Giang , Huynh Nghiem Xuan , Truong Ha Bich Thi , Thai Truc Thanh , Doan Thao Phuong Thi
Published: June 2023

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) are promising new factors in the prognosis and prediction of breast cancer patients. Our study evaluated the prevalence of expression of TILs on hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) slides, PD-L1 expression on immunohistochemistry, and their association with clinicopathological characteristics in Vietnamese women with invasive breast cancer. This study was conducted on 216 women with primary invasive breast cancer. The evaluation of TILs on the HE slides was based on the International TILs Working Group 2014 recommendation. PD-L1 protein expression was determined using the Combined Positive Score, the number of tumor cells, lymphocytes, and macrophages stained by PD-L1 divided by the total viable tumor cells multiplied by 100. Based on the cutoff of 11%, the prevalence of TILs expression was 35.6%, of which highly expressed TILs (≥50%) accounted for 15.3%. Postmenopausal women and those who had a body mass index of 25 kg/m2 or greater had a higher odds of having TILs expression. However, patients who had the expression of Ki-67, HER-positive molecular subtype, and triple-negative subtype were more likely to have TILs expression. The prevalence of PD-L1 expression was 30.1%. A significantly higher odds of having PD-L1 was found in patients who had a history of benign breast disease, self-detected tumor and had TILs expression. The expression of TILs and PD-L1 is common in Vietnamese women with invasive breast cancer. Because of the importance of these expressions, routine evaluation to find women who had TILs and PD-L1 is needed so that treatment and prognosis can be optimized. Such routine evaluation can be targeted to those who had a high-risk profile found in this study.
Blood inflammatory biomarkers in participants with idiopathic epiretinal membrane: A retrospective case series study
Authors: Qin Guanghao , Lin Tiezhu , You Yue , Shang Mingxin , He Wei , Pazo Emmanuel Eric
Published: June 2023

The objective was to evaluate the levels of monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in patients with idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM). This retrospective case series study comprised of participants with iERM and participants with cataract. The values of MLR, NLR, PLR and from participants’ peripheral blood were assessed among groups. The best cutoff value of MLR, NLR, and PLR in iERM was found by performing a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and determining the optimum cutoff value for each variable. In total, 95 participants with iERM were included in the study group, and 61 participants with senile cataract were included as controls. The lymphocyte count in the iERM group was significantly lower than the control group (1.69 ± 0.63 vs. 1.95 ± 0.53, P = .003). The monocyte count in the iERM group was significantly higher than the control group (0.39 ± 0.11 vs. 0.31 ± 0.10, P < .001). The area under the curve of MLR, NLR, and PLR in differentiating patients with IERM and controls was 0.782, 0.645, and 0.657, respectively, according to receiver operating characteristic. The best cutoff value of MLR was > 0.18, with sensitivity and specificity of 74.7% and 75.4%, respectively. The NLR was > 2.06, with a sensitivity and specificity of 50.5% and 83.6%, respectively. The PLR was > 95.89, with a sensitivity and specificity of 86.3% and 41.0%, respectively. The findings of this study suggest that systemic inflammation may be associated with iERM. IERM patients may be prone to have high MLR, NLR, and PLR values.
The status of stigma in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and its association with medication adherence and quality of life in China: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Wu Lingyun , Yun Jie , Sun Qiuhua
Published: June 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic, lifelong disease that can negatively affect patients’ mental health and quality of life (QoL). A notable proportion of patients with T2DM worldwide have experienced stigma through instances of discrimination, unfair social treatment and lack of promotion opportunities. Stigma refers to the negative emotional experience of people with illness, often mixed with self-stigmatization. Stigma remains an obstacle to patients’ self-management, its association with patients with T2DM on medication adherence and QoL in China are unknown. Therefore, the objective of the study was to analyze the status of stigma in patients with T2DM and its association with medication adherence and QoL in China. A cross-sectional, observational study among 346 inpatients with T2DM in 2 tertiary-level hospitals in Chengdu, China, was conducted using a general data questionnaire, Chinese version type 2 diabetes stigma scale (DSAS-2), Morisky medication adherence scale (MMAS-8) and diabetic QoL specificity scale by convenient sampling method from January to August 2020. The total score and scores for the 3 dimensions of stigma, treated differently, blame and judgment, and self-stigma, were 54.30 ± 12.22, 16.57 ± 4.06, 20.92 ± 4.42, 16.82 ± 4.78, respectively. The scores for medication adherence and QoL were 5.43 ± 1.8 and 73.24 ± 9.38. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the total score of stigma and the scores of each dimension were negatively weak-correlated with the score of medication adherence (r = −0.158 to −0.121, P < .05), and positively moderate-correlated with the score of QoL (R = 0.073 to 0.614, P < .05). Stigma of patients with T2DM was negatively associated with medication adherence, and negatively associated with QoL, namely, the stronger the stigma, the worse the medication adherence and QoL. The results of the hierarchical regression analysis revealed that stigma independently explained 8.8% of the variation in medication adherence and 9.4% to 38.8% of the variation in QoL. The stigma of patients with T2DM was at a moderate degree and negatively correlated with medication adherence and QoL, it is necessary to pay more attention to relieve stigma and negative emotions timely, in order to improve patients’ mental health and QoL.
A scientometric analysis of sarcopenic obesity: Future trends and new perspectives
Authors: Tutan Duygu , Şen Uzeli Ülkem
Published: June 2023

Sarcopenic obesity is a complex condition characterized by the combination of age-related loss of muscle mass and high levels of adiposity, or body fat. Up to 30% of older adults may be affected by this condition, and its prevalence varies by gender, race, and ethnicity. It can lead to postural instability and reduced physical activity, increasing the risk of falls, fractures, and functional limitations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate scientific articles on sarcopenic obesity using statistical methods and to assess the topic from a novel perspective. The Web of Science database publications on sarcopenic obesity published between 1980 and 2023 were analyzed using statistical and bibliometric methods. Spearman correlation coefficient was used in correlation analyses. A nonlinear cubic model regression analysis was performed to forecast the number of publications in the following years. Using keyword network visualization maps, recurrent topics, and relationships were identified. Between 1980 and 2023, the search criteria yielded 1013 publications on geriatric malnutrition. Nine hundred of these (articles, reviews, and meeting abstracts) were included in the analysis. Since 2005, the volume of published materials on the topic has increased dramatically and is continuing to rise. The USA and South Korea were the most active nations, Scott D and Prado CMM were the most active authors, and Osteoporosis International was the most active journal on the subject. This research has shown that countries with higher economic development tend to produce more research on the issue, and the number of publications on the topic will rise in the upcoming years. It is an important research topic in an aging society and needs to be further researched. We believe this article may aid clinicians and scientists in comprehending global efforts to combat sarcopenic obesity.
Infectious causes and mimickers of meniere's disease
Authors: Kurtzman Joey S. , Sioshansi Pedrom C.
Published: June 2023

Purpose of review

To review the evidence of a possible viral etiology of Meniere's disease, the role of antiviral therapy, as well as other infectious disease processes that may mimic Meniere's disease. Better understanding of the etiology of Meniere's disease and the role of various infectious disease processes may allow for more effective diagnosis and management.

Recent findings

There is evidence that viral infections – to Herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein Barr virus, influenza, adenovirus, Coxsackie virus B, and Varicella Zoster Virus – may be involved in the development of Meniere's disease, however the evidence is inconsistent and the underlying mechanism remains theoretical. Nevertheless, antiviral therapy may be effective for a subset of patients with Meniere's disease. Lastly, other infectious diseases including Lyme disease and syphilis can present with symptoms similar to Meniere's disease. It is important to discern these from Meniere's disease to determine the appropriate treatment.

There is a paucity of high-quality evidence to support a viral etiology of Meniere's disease, and the current evidence appears circumstantial and inconsistent. Additional research is necessary to establish the mechanism and causative pathogens. Antiviral therapy may provide therapeutic benefit for a subset of patients with Meniere's disease. Furthermore, clinicians should be aware of other infectious mimics of Meniere's disease and include them in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with Meniere's-like symptoms. Research on this subject continues to evolve, and data from these studies represent a growing repository of evidence that can be used to guide clinical decision-making.
Can Simulation Scenarios Be Designed to Assess Ongoing Nursing Competence?
Authors: Blier Rachel G. , Carroll Barbara A. , Contreras Nicola E.
Published: June 2023

Learner-centered verification methods are at the core of Donna Wright’s model for competency assessment. Using Wright’s framework, an academic medical center studied the use of simulation as a verification method for their annual ongoing nursing competency assessment. Of the 10 pilot participants, 60% used simulation as a verification method to successfully show competence. Assuming adequate professional development practitioner and facility resources, simulation can be used as an option for ongoing competency assessment.
Curriculum Mapping Post-Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency Curriculum to Accrediting Agency Standards
Authors: Layton Shannon S. , Moore Randy , Miltner Rebecca S. (Suzie)
Published: June 2023

This article examines the process of mapping a post-baccalaureate registered nurse residency curriculum with Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education standards for nurse residencies. Curriculum mapping revealed gaps and redundancies in the curriculum as well as documented compliance with accreditation standards. Curriculum mapping is instrumental to developing, evaluating, and refining curricular elements. Mapping curriculum with accreditation standards simultaneously fulfills accreditation requirements and can increase confidence in readiness within organizations undergoing accreditation site visits.
Normothermic Machine Perfusion of Donor Livers for Transplantation in the United States – A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chapman William C. , Barbas Andrew S. , D’Alessandro Anthony M. , Vianna Rodrigo , Kubal Chandrashekhar A. , Abt Peter , Sonnenday Christopher , Barth Rolf , Alvarez-Casas Josue , Yersiz Hasan , Eckhoff Devin , Cannon Robert , Genyk Yuri , Sher Linda , Singer Andrew , Feng Sandy , Roll Garrett , Cohen Ari , Doyle Maria B. , Sudan Debra L. , Al-Adra David , Khan Adeel , Subramanian Vijay , Abraham Nader , Olthoff Kim , Tekin Akin , Berg Lynn , Coussios Constantin , Morris Chris , Randle Lucy , Friend Peter , Knechtle Stuart J.
Published: June 2023

Objective:

A randomized controlled clinical trial comparison of conventional low temperature storage of transplant donor livers (static cold storage, SCS) with storage of the organs at physiological body temperature (normothermic machine preservation, NMP)

Background:

The high success rate of liver transplantation is constrained by the shortage of transplantable organs (e.g. waiting list mortality >20% in many centers). Normothermic machine perfusion maintains the liver in a functioning state to improve preservation quality and enable testing of the organ before transplantation. This is of greatest potential value with organs from brain-dead donor organs (DBD) with risk factors (age, comorbidities), and those from donors declared dead by cardiovascular criteria (DCD).

Methods:

383 donor organs were randomized by 15 US liver transplant centers to undergo NMP (n=192) or SCS (n=191). 266 donor livers proceeded to transplantation (NMP n=136; SCS n=130). The primary endpoint of the study was Early Allograft Dysfunction (EAD), a marker of early post-transplant liver injury and function.

Results:

The difference in incidence of EAD did not achieve significance, with 20.6% (NMP) vs. 23.7% (SCS). Using exploratory ‘as-treated’ rather than “intent to treat” sub-group analyses, there was a greater effect size in DCD donor livers (22.8% NMP vs. 44.6% SCS), and in organs in the highest risk quartile by donor risk (19.2% NMP vs. 33.3% SCS). The incidence of acute cardiovascular decompensation at organ reperfusion, ‘post-reperfusion syndrome’ as a secondary outcome was reduced in the NMP arm (5.9% vs. 14.6%).

Conclusions:

Normothermic machine perfusion did not lower EAD perhaps related to inclusion of lower risk liver donors, as higher risk donor livers appeared to benefit more The technology is safe in standard organ recovery, and appears to have greatest benefit in marginal donors.
The Evolution of Redo Liver Transplantation Over 35 years
Authors: Kaldas Fady M. , Horwitz Julian K. , Noguchi Daisuke , Korayem Islam M. , Markovic Daniela , Ebaid Samer , Agopian Vatche G. , Yersiz Hasan , Saab Sammy , Han Steven B. , El Kabany Mohamad M. , Choi Gina , Shetty Akshay , Singh Jasleen , Wray Christopher , Barjaktarvic Igor , Farmer Douglas G. , Busuttil Ronald W.
Published: June 2023

Objective:

Despite the durability of liver transplantation (LT), graft failure affects up to 40% of LT recipients. We examined liver retransplantation (ReLT) over 35-years at a single center.

Methods:

All adult, ReLTs from 1984-2021 were analyzed. Comparisons were made between ReLTs in the pre- vs. post- model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) eras and between ReLTs and primary-LTs in the modern era. Multivariate analysis was used for prognostic modeling.

Results:

654 ReLTs were performed in 590 recipients. There were 372 pre-MELD ReLTs and 282 post-MELD ReLTs. 89% of ReLT recipients had one previous LT, while 11% had ≥2. Primary non-function was the most common indication in the pre-MELD era (33%) vs. recurrent disease (24%) in the post-MELD era. Post-MELD ReLT recipients were older (53 vs. 48, P=0.001), had higher MELD scores (35 vs. 31, P=0.01), and more comorbidities. However, post-MELD ReLT patients had superior 1-, 5-, and 10-year survival compared to pre-MELD ReLT (75%, 60%, and 43% vs. 53%, 43%, and 35% respectively, P<0.001) and lower in-hospital mortality and rejection rates. Notably, in the post-MELD era, MELD score did not affect survival. We identified the following risk factors for early mortality (≤12 months): coronary artery disease, obesity, ventilatory support, older recipient age, longer pre-ReLT hospital stay.

Conclusion:

This represents the largest single center ReLT report to date. Despite increased acuity and complexity of ReLT patients, post-MELD era outcomes have improved. With careful patient selection, these results support the efficacy and survival benefit of ReLT in an acuity-based allocation environment.
Integrating jigsaw puzzle thinking into practice: the assessment of cervical spine radiculopathy
Authors: Mansfield Michael , Thacker Mick
Published: June 2023

Purpose of review

Cervical spine radiculopathy (CSR) presents a complex socioeconomic problem for patients, clinicians, families, employers and healthcare systems. Due to the heterogeneity of clinical presentation and underlying mechanisms, clinical assessment can be challenging. This review will examine the literature on the underlying pathophysiology and studies investigating the holistic assessment strategies for this disabling condition. The authors will focus particular attention on the psychological factors associated with CSR and the physical and imaging strategies to establish a diagnosis.

Recent findings

Contemporary CSR assessment should identify the underlying pathomechanisms and how this may impact the somatosensory nervous system integrity and function. No physical assessment test in isolation will establish CSR diagnosis; therefore, clinicians should utilise a cluster of tests and recognise the potential limitations as part of a clinical reasoning framework. The assessment of the somatosensory nervous system can provide insights into particular subgroups of CSR presentation, which may provide interesting opportunities to continue to enhance individualised assessment and management strategies for CSR. The interplay between psychological factors can influence the diagnosis and recovery times for a person with CSR, and clinicians should continue to explore how these factors may influence a person’s prognosis. The authors will discuss the opportunities for future research and limitations of contemporary approaches to assessment, underpinned by evidence, and how this supports a clinical assessment to establish CSR diagnosis.

Research should continue to investigate how clinicians assess the interplay between physical and psychological factors to inform the establishment of CSR. Specifically, there is a need to investigate the validity and reliability of combining somatosensory, motor and imaging assessment findings to reach a diagnosis and inform onward management plans.
Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients >40 Years of Age With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Reduced Intensity Versus Myeloablative Conditioning
Authors: Sijs-Szabo Aniko , Dinmohamed Avinash G. , Versluis Jurjen , van der Holt Bronno , Bellido Mar , Hazenberg Mette D. , van Gelder Michel , Schaap Nicolaas P.M. , Meijer Ellen , van der Wagen Lotte E , Halkes Constantijn J.M. , Rijneveld Anita W. , Cornelissen Jan J.
Published: June 2023

Background.

The outcome in older patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) remains unsatisfactory due to high relapse and nonrelapse mortality (NRM) rates. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) as postremission therapy has an important role in reducing relapse rate, albeit its application is limited in older adult patients due to alloHSCT-related morbidity and mortality. Reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) alloHSCT has been developed as a less toxic conditioning regimen, but comparative studies with myeloablative conditioning (MAC) are limited in patients with ALL.

Methods.

In this retrospective study, RIC-alloHSCT (n = 111) was compared with MAC-alloHSCT (n = 77) in patients aged 41 to 65 y with ALL in first complete remission. MAC was predominantly applied by combining high-dose total body irradiation and cyclophosphamide, whereas RIC mainly consisted of fludarabine and 2 Gy total body irradiation.

Results.

Unadjusted overall survival was 54% (95% confidence interval [CI], 42%-65%) at 5 y in MAC recipients compared with 39% (95% CI, 29%-49%) in RIC recipients. Overall survival and relapse-free survival were not significantly associated with type of conditioning after adjusted for the covariates age, leukemia risk status at diagnosis, donor type, and donor and recipient gender combination. NRM was significantly lower after RIC (subdistribution hazard ratio: 0.41, 95% CI, 0.22-0.78; P = 0.006), whereas relapse was significantly higher (subdistribution hazard ratio: 3.04, 95% CI, 1.71-5.40; P < 0.001).

Conclusions.

Collectively, RIC-alloHSCT has resulted in less NRM, but it was also found to be associated with a significantly higher relapse rate. These results suggest that MAC-alloHSCT may provide a more effective type of consolidation therapy for the reduction of relapse and that RIC-alloHSCT may be restricted to patients at higher risk for NRM.
Cortical hyperexcitability in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: from pathogenesis to diagnosis
Authors: Timmins Hannah C. , Vucic Steve , Kiernan Matthew C.
Published: June 2023

Purpose of review

Identification of upper motor neuron involvement remains a critical component of a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), although supportive clinical signs are often not easily appreciated, particularly in the early symptomatic stages of the disease. Although diagnostic criteria have been developed to facilitate improved detection of lower motor neuron impairment through electrophysiological features that have improved diagnostic sensitivity, assessment of upper motor neuron involvement remains problematic.

Recent findings

Recent evidence has emerged about pathophysiological processes, particularly glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, which has resulted in the development of novel diagnostic investigations and uncovered potential therapeutic targets. Advances in genetics, including the C9orf72 gene, have changed concepts of ALS, from being classified as a neuromuscular disease to a disease that forms a continuum with other primary neurodegenerative disorders, particularly frontotemporal dementia. Transcranial magnetic stimulation has been utilized to provide pathophysiological insights, leading to the development of diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers, which are now being introduced into the clinical setting.

Specifically, the advent of cortical hyperexcitability has been consistently identified as an early and intrinsic feature of ALS. With greater accessibility of TMS techniques promoting clinical utilization, TMS measures of cortical function may develop as a diagnostic biomarker, with further potential utility in the clinical trial setting for monitoring of neuroprotective and genetic-based therapies.
Antimicrobial resistance, molecular characteristics, virulence and pathogenicity of bla
NDM-1-positive Enterobacter cloacae
Authors: Yu Yan , Dai Pengfei , Niu Min , Han Ruihui , Liu Shumin , Du Yan
Published: June 2023

Introduction. The bla
NDM-1
-positive

Enterobacter cloacae

has led to limited therapeutic options for clinical treatment.

Hypothesis/Gap Statement. Analysing the antimicrobial resistance and molecular typing of bla
NDM-1-positive

E. cloacae

is of great significance. Meanwhile, the effect of the bla
NDM-1 gene on the virulence and pathogenicity of

E. cloacae

remains unclear and should be assessed.

Aim. To understand bla
NDM-1-positive

E. cloacae

from different perspectives.

Methodology. The PCR was used to screen bla
NDM-1-positive

E. cloacae

, then, antimicrobial susceptibility tests and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) were performed on them; sixty-nine strains of bla
NDM-1-negative

E. cloacae

were collected as the controls, 28 pairs of virulence-related genes' carriage and biofilm-forming ability were detected for preliminary evaluation of the virulence phenotype of the strains; to gain insight into the effect of the bla
NDM-1 gene on the virulence and pathogenicity of

E. cloacae

, the bla
NDM-1-positive

E. cloacae

T2 (NDM-1), the T2 bla
NDM-1 knockout strain (ΔNDM-1) and ATCC13047 (ST) were studied, compared the motility, anti-serum killing ability, and virulence to cells. Then, the mice intraperitoneal infection model was established, the survival curve, histopathological characteristics, bacterial load in spleen and the contents of cytokines were compared.

Results. (1) Thirty-five bla
NDM-1-positive

E. cloacae

exhibited multidrug resistance. MLST distinguished 12 STs, ST74 was the most common clonal type (11/35), followed by ST114 (10/35). (2) The detection rates of virulence genes clpB, icmf, VasD/Lip and acrA in the bla
NDM-1-positive

E. cloacae

were significantly higher than those in bla
NDM-1-negative

E. cloacae

(P<0.05), while there was no significant difference in the amount of biofilm formation between two groups. (3) The presence of bla
NDM-1 gene attenuated the motility diameter of

E. cloacae

, but had no significant effect on their ability to resist serum killing, and the virulence to cells. The survival rate, histopathological changes, bacterial load in spleen and inflammatory cytokines were not significantly affected.

Conclusions. (1) The bla
NDM-1-positive

E. cloacae

exhibited multidrug resistance, and the MLST typing was mainly ST74 and ST114, with a small-scale clonal spread of the ST114 strain in the hospital NICU ward. (2) The bla
NDM-1 gene did not affect the virulence and pathogenicity of

E. cloacae

.