bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
National Treatment Patterns and Outcomes for Hospitalized Patients with Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia and End-Stage Kidney Disease
Authors: Shah Samir K. , Neal Dan , Berceli Scott A. , Segal Mark , Cooper Michol A. , Huber Thomas S. , Upchurch Gilbert R. , Scali Salvatore T.
Published: December 2022

Background

Chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) can be associated with dismal outcomes but there are limited real-world data to further define the impact of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) on outcomes nationally in this subset of patients. We sought to characterize national patterns of inpatient treatment of CLTI and compare outcomes in patients without ESKD.

Methods

The National Inpatient Sample was queried from 2015-2018 for all hospital admissions including treatment for CLTI. Mixed-effects linear and logistic regression models were used to estimate the effect of ESKD on outcomes and treatment choice.

Results

We identified 11 652 hospital admissions with CLTI alone and 2705 with CLTI + ESKD. Hospital admissions with CLTI + ESKD patients included patients who were younger (66 vs 69 years, P < .0001), less likely to be white (39% vs 63%, P < .0001), and more likely to reside in lower income large metropolitan areas. Admissions for CLTI + ESKD patients had a lower likelihood of open arterial reconstruction (OR .40, P < .0001) and a higher likelihood of endovascular revascularization or major limb amputation (OR 1.70, P < .0001). Admissions for CLTI + ESKD also had a 4.5- and 1.5-fold higher odds of in-hospital death and complications. These findings were associated with a longer LOS ( P < .0001), increased probability of discharge to rehabilitation facility (50% vs 41%, P < .0001), and greater hospital charges (median, $107 K vs $85 K, P < .0001).

Conclusions

Compared to hospital admissions for patients without ESKD, admissions for patients with CLTI + ESKD demonstrated distinctive demographic characteristics, a lower likelihood of open revascularization and a higher likelihood of endovascular revascularization and major limb amputation. Chronic limb-threatening ischemia + ESKD hospital admissions showed worse overall outcomes and greater resource utilization compared to CLTI admissions without ESKD.
Swimming Lessons for Children With Autism: Parent and Teacher Experiences
Authors: Carter Bronwyn Claire , Koch Lyndsay
Published: December 2022

The occupation of swimming for children with autism is an unexplored field of research in the South African context. This study explores the experiences of swimming teachers and parents of children with autism in the context of swimming lessons. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were utilized with a qualitative, descriptive-phenomenological design. Data analysis utilized Colaizzis’s seven-step method. Parents first sought swimming lessons for their children as a survival skill. Although facing barriers to accessing this service, parents experienced swimming as a meaningful occupation with unexpected benefits. Swimming teachers also derived meaning from providing lessons, despite a lack of knowledge. They expressed a need for greater support and training. Swimming is a meaningful occupation for children with autism and their families, but swimming teachers in South Africa are not always equipped to provide this service. Occupational therapists could play a variety of roles in supporting participation for all stakeholders.
Left Internal Mammary Artery Operative Topography for MIDCAB and TECAB Procedures
Authors: Rams Daniel , Batko Jakub , Bartuś Krzysztof , Filip Grzegorz , Kowalewski Mariusz , Litwinowicz Radosław
Published: December 2022

Objective:

The left internal mammary artery (LIMA) is a common arterial graft in minimally invasive coronary surgery (MICS), such as minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting (MIDCAB) or totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass (TECAB). The aim of this study was to perform an analysis of the LIMA operative topography during MICS.

Methods:

A total of 104 computed tomography angiographies were analyzed retrospectively using 3-dimensional reconstruction and visualization software. Measurements were developed in relation to the anatomical midpoint of the sternal body (SBMP). Parameters were evaluated as lengths, distances, diagonals, or categorical descriptions.

Results:

A total of 208 internal mammary arteries of each side were analyzed with the following results: (1) LIMA width = 2.7 mm, (2) SBMP–LIMA bifurcation length = 6.2 cm, (3) SBMP–LIMA distance = 3.2 ± 0.5 cm, (4) xiphoid midpoint–LIMA distance = 3.5 ± 0.7 cm, (5) sternal line–LIMA distance = 1.7 ± 0.3 cm, (6) xiphoid end projection–LIMA bifurcation length = 2.2 ± 1.0 cm, (7) midsternal line–LIMA bifurcation distance = 3.3 ± 0.8 cm, (8) xiphoid end–LIMA bifurcation diagonal = 4.1 ± 0.9 cm, (9) LIMA–left coronary artery distance = 7.0 ± 1.4 cm at the proximal and 7.1 ± 1.3 cm at the distal segment, and (10) LIMA–left anterior descending artery distance = 5.5 ± 1.1 cm at proximal, 4.3 cm at middle, and 4.2 ± 1.5 cm at distal segment. The extent of LIMA bifurcation ranged from the level of 5 (1%) to 7 (6%) rib cartilages.

Conclusions:

Based on the detailed surgical anatomy of LIMA, it was concluded that the fourth intercostal space should be considered as an appropriate approach for MIDCAB or TECAB in the studied region.
Robotic Redo Mitral Valve Replacement and Atrioventricular Groove Pseudoaneurysm Repair
Authors: Vardas Panayotis , DeLay Thomas Kurt , Stephens Richard , Abraham Peter , Lewis Clifton
Published: December 2022

We report the use of robot-assisted right thoracotomy in the management of a patient who presented with acute-on-chronic congestive heart failure, associated with a contained atrioventricular dissection and 2 prior mitral valve replacements. Our patient had evidence of a contained rupture, as represented by preoperative cross-sectional imaging. The anatomic sequela from this was a ventricular pseudoaneurysm, which was likely survivable due to adhesions from prior operations buttressing the margins of the defect. Expansion of the pseudoaneurysm likely contributed to the dehiscence of the prosthesis. Our case illustrates an unprecedented resolution of a serious complication, managed effectively and efficiently by a robot-assisted procedure. With a successful outcome of totally endoscopic and robot-assisted repair, we demonstrate the versatility of minimally invasive techniques in addressing complicated anatomy as well as a surgical field scarred by multiple prior surgeries.
Type of Work and Preoperative Ability to Perform Work Affect Return to Usual Work Following Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Notermans Bo J. W. , Teunissen Joris S. , Selles Ruud W. , de Boer Luitzen H. L. ,   the Hand Wrist Study Group, van der Heijden Brigitte E. P. A.
Published: December 2022

Background:

The time until return to work (RTW) and possible factors affecting this time after proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthroplasty are unknown. Therefore, we aim to evaluate the RTW after PIP joint arthroplasty for osteoarthritis and assess factors affecting the time until return to their usual work.

Methods:

We used prospectively gathered data from 74 patients undergoing PIP joint arthroplasty with daily hand surgery practice routine outcome collection. Standardized RTW questionnaires were completed at 6 weeks and 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. Return to work was defined as the first time a patient reported returning to work and performing the original work for a minimum of 50% of the original hours a week, as stated in the patient’s contract. Second, we evaluated baseline factors affecting the time until RTW.

Results:

The probability of RTW within 12 months after surgery was 88%. The median time until RTW was 8 weeks (interquartile range: 4-10). Physical occupational intensity (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.36, P = .001) and the baseline Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire work scores (HR: 1.02, P = .005) were independently associated with RTW.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, patients returned to work after a median of 8 weeks following PIP arthroplasty. Patients with medium or heavy physical occupations returned to work later than patients with light physical occupations. Better patient-reported work outcomes at baseline also led to an earlier RTW. This information can be valuable for providing adequate information during the preoperative consultation.
Linguistic Challenges of Fieldwork for First-Generation Ethnic Researchers
Authors: Khayambashi Shirin
Published: December 2022

Language is a significant part of any fieldwork in cultural and cross-cultural qualitative research. With a growing number of 1.25-, 1.5- and second-generation children of immigrant families entering academia, many assume their bilingual proficiency helps them bypass translational and linguistic challenges. Based on my fieldwork experience, I am exploring the linguistic challenges of intragroup research. While I presumed my bilingualism in English and Farsi would help me build communal rapport during my fieldwork, I was surprised by my participants’ choice of broken English and refusal to complete their interview in Farsi. In this article, I argue that my positionality as a researcher and the intruding Anglo culture in the research process diminished my communal identity and intensified my hierarchical position. Upon assessing the linguistic challenges, I will make recommendations and suggestions to address similar challenges in the fieldwork.
“It’s a lonely battle”: A qualitative study of older adult Canadians’ experiences with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease medication adherence and support
Authors: Skerry Leanne , Kervin Emily , Freeze Tracy A. , Brillant Andrew , Woodland Jennifer , Hanson Natasha
Published: December 2022

Background:

Medication adherence is critical for optimal management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is influenced by patient, treatment and societal factors. Currently, little is known about the patient perspectives of older adult Canadians with COPD regarding medication adherence. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of older Canadian adults with COPD regarding medication adherence and management.

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 community-dwelling older adults with COPD, and iterative thematic analysis was performed.

Results:

Six themes emerged from these data: (1) continuity of care, (2) importance of pharmacy for information and care, (3) medication self-management, (4) “there needs to be more information,” (5) drug costs a concern and (6) “it’s a lonely battle.”

Conclusion:

Findings suggested a need for improved continuity of care, disease-related information provision and means of addressing psychosocial needs. Holistic approaches to patient education and self-management, with consideration for varying health literacy, are needed.
Design and logistical considerations for the randomized adaptive non-inferiority storage-duration-ranging CHIlled Platelet Study
Authors: Zantek Nicole D , Steiner Marie E , VanBuren John M , Lewis Roger J , Berry Nicholas S , Viele Kert , Krachey Elizabeth , Dean J Michael , Nelson Stacy , Spinella Philip C
Published: December 2022

Background:

Platelet transfusion is a potentially life-saving therapy for actively bleeding patients, ranging from those undergoing planned surgical procedures to those suffering unexpected traumatic injuries. Platelets are currently stored at room temperature (20°C–24°C) with a maximum storage duration of 7 days after donation. The CHIlled Platelet Study trial will compare the efficacy and safety of standard room temperature–stored platelets with platelets that are cold-stored (1°C–6°C), that is, chilled, with a maximum of storage up to 21 days in adult and pediatric patients undergoing complex cardiac surgical procedures.

Methods/Results:

CHIlled Platelet Study will use a Bayesian adaptive design to identify the range of cold storage durations for platelets that are non-inferior to standard room temperature–stored platelets. If cold-stored platelets are non-inferior at durations greater than 7 days, a gated superiority analysis will identify durations for which cold-stored platelets may be superior to standard platelets. We present example simulations of the CHIlled Platelet Study design and discuss unique challenges in trial implementation. The CHIlled Platelet Study trial has been funded and will be implemented in approximately 20 clinical centers. Early randomization to enable procurement of cold-stored platelets with different storage durations will be required, as well as a platelet tracking system to eliminate platelet wastage and maximize trial efficiency and economy.

Discussion:

The CHIlled Platelet Study trial will determine whether cold-stored platelets are non-inferior to platelets stored at room temperature, and if so, will determine the maximum duration (up to 21 days) of storage that maintains non-inferiority.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04834414
Exploring perceived stress from caring for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients in nurses: a qualitative study
Authors: Pourgholam Nima , Zareiyan Armin , Farsi Zahra , Abbasiyan Koorosh
Published: December 2022

Background:

The coronavirus pandemic has increased the perceived stress among people worldwide. The new coronavirus issue has recently put nursing staff under severe stress.

Aims:

This study aimed to evaluate the stress perceived by nurses in caring for new coronavirus patients.

Methods:

This qualitative conventional content analysis was conducted from February and March 2021. Twelve nurses working in the inpatient care wards for COVID-19 patients in Tehran hospitals were enrolled using purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth and semi-structured interviews and collection continued until reaching data saturation. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, reviewed and analysed using the Graneheim and Lundman method.

Results:

One main category, five categories and 19 sub-categories emerged from the data. The nurses experienced ‘the process of transition from unknown conditions’. Caregiving stress, impression on all aspects of life, COVID as a strange disease, stress caused by patient characteristics and stress reduction over time were issues in the formation of stress in nurses caring for patients with COVID-19.

Conclusions:

The findings indicated that nurses caring for COVID-19 patients experience varying levels of stress for a variety of interrelated reasons. Knowing how nurses perceive the stress of caring for patients with COVID-19 can aid in the development of practical steps to reduce stress and make nurses more comfortable.
How Awe Shaped Us: An Evolutionary Perspective
Authors: Richesin Matthew T. , Baldwin Debora R.
Published: December 2022

Research shows the experience of awe is associated with a variety of benefits ranging from increased well-being and prosocial behavior to enhanced cognition. The adaptive purpose of awe, however, is elusive. In this article, we aim to show that the current framework used to conceptualize awe points towards higher-order cognition as the key adaptive function. This goes against past evolutionary positions that posit social benefits or unidimensional behavioral adaptations. In the second half of the article, we highlight a distinct cognitive advantage of awe. The literature connecting awe and cognition is surveyed and used to develop a view that situates awe as a critical component in the cognitive success of the human species.
Cancer immune profiling unveils biomarkers, immunological pathways, and cell type score associated with glioblastoma patients’ survival
Authors: Moreno Daniel Antunes , da Silva Luciane Sussuchi , Gomes Isabella , Leal Letícia Ferro , Berardinelli Gustavo Noriz , Gonçalves Gisele Melo , Pereira Caio Augusto , Santana Iara Viana Vidigal , Matsushita Marcus de Medeiros , Bhat Krishna , Lawler Sean , Reis Rui Manuel
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

Glioblastoma (GBM), isocitrate dehydrogenase ( IDH) wild-type ( IDHwt), and grade 4 astrocytomas, IDH mutant ( IDHmut), are the most common and aggressive primary malignant brain tumors in adults. A better understanding of the tumor immune microenvironment may provide new biomarkers and therapeutic opportunities.

Objectives:

We aimed to evaluate the expression profile of 730 immuno-oncology-related genes in patients with IDHwt GBM and IDHmut tumors and identify prognostic biomarkers and a gene signature associated with patient survival.

Methods:

RNA was isolated from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections of 99 tumor specimens from patients treated with standard therapy. Gene expression profile was assessed using the Pan-Cancer Immune Profiling Panel (Nanostring Technologies, Inc., Seattle, WA, USA). Data analysis was performed using nSolverSoftware and validated in The Cancer Genome Atlas. In addition, we developed a prognostic signature using the cox regression algorithm (Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator).

Results:

We found 88 upregulated genes, high immunological functions, and a high macrophage score in IDHwt GBM compared to IDHmut tumors. Regarding IDHwt GBM, we found 24 upregulated genes in short-term survivors (STS) and overexpression of CD274 (programmed death-ligand 1, PD-L1). Immune pathways, CD45, cytotoxic, and macrophage scores were upregulated in STS. Two different prognostic groups were found based on the 12-gene signature (CXCL14, PSEN2, TNFRSF13C, IL13RA1, MAP2K1, TNFSF14, THY1, CTSL, ITGAE, CHUK, CD207, and IFITM1).

Conclusion:

The elevated expression of immune-oncology-related genes was associated with worse outcome in IDHwt GBM patients. Increased immune functions, CD45, cytotoxic cells, and macrophage scores were associated with a more aggressive phenotype and may provide promising possibilities for therapy. Moreover, a 12 gene-based signature could predict patients’ prognosis.
The impact of big data analytics on organizational sustainability: The influencing factors of autonomous research and development and absorptive capacity
Authors: Arshad Muhammad , Kun Yu Chen , Qadir Aneela , Ahmad Waqar , Rafique Muhammad
Published: December 2022

This study aims to see how the big data analytics capability (BDAC) and its dimensions affect the absorptive capacity and autonomous R&D of high-speed railways. As well as their impact on the organization’s long-term sustainability, using the mediation of absorptive capacity and autonomy in R&D. Employees and the heads of the planning, HR, R&D, and technical departments of high-speed railways were polled for information. For data analysis, we used PLS-SEM, and then we employed mediation analysis. BDAC increases the organization’s ability to tolerate change and gives management instructions on making decisions. This study adds to the body of knowledge on absorptive capacity development and autonomy over R&D activities by investigating the role of BDAC in the long-term development of high-speed trains.
The Relation Between Updated Implicit Evaluations and the Trust Game
Authors: Shen Xi , Maiolatesi Anthony J. , Mann Thomas C. , Ferguson Melissa J.
Published: December 2022

Recent work has shown that people can update their implicit evaluations based on facial trustworthiness. However, do these updated implicit evaluations map onto subsequent decisions? We examined whether implicit evaluations based on faces but updated in light of new behavioral evidence uniquely predict responses in the trust game. Across six studies ( N = 2,059), we measured participants’ initial implicit evaluations of a target based on the target’s face and then their updated implicit evaluations based on newly learned behavioral evidence. We then tested whether these updated implicit evaluations uniquely predicted (i.e., beyond explicit evaluations) responses in a hypothetical trust game. Although participants consistently based their initial evaluations on the face and updated their evaluations after learning new diagnostic information, their updated implicit evaluations did not uniquely predict their responses in the trust game. We discuss theoretical considerations in this article.
Anti tumor necrosis factor induced focal myositis
Authors: Masnammany Adrian Mark , Lau Wendy , Wong Peter Kee Kee , Manolios Nicholas
Published: December 2022

Tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFis) can trigger autoantibody formation and, in a small proportion of patients, result in symptomatic autoimmune diseases, including polymyositis and dermatomyositis. Focal myositis presents with localized muscle pain and is diagnosed based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electromyography (EMG) and muscle histopathology. We report the first case of TNFi-induced focal myositis in the left thigh of a patient with ulcerative colitis on infliximab. A 30-year-old lady presented with left thigh pain with no other systemic manifestation or muscle weakness. The immunology profile showed positivity of antinuclear antibody (ANA), high titre of anti-ds-DNA, and anti-Mi-2 without any features of systemic lupus erythematosus or dermatomyositis. Discontinuation of the TNFi and commencement of glucocorticoids resulted in the resolution of the myositis.
Follow the thing: Air rights
Authors: Chen Hung-Ying
Published: December 2022

This commentary responds to ‘Diversifying the compact city’ (Haarstad, Kjærås, Røe, and Tveiten, 2023) by introducing the elemental thinking of urban air rights. I argue that the analytical tool of ‘following air rights’ can contribute to the proposed research agenda by connecting the sociotechnical operations of urban policy tools, metabolic flows across multiple urban sites, and the actionable potential of antagonism and commoning.
Trends of intrauterine device insertion and ‘Googling’ about intrauterine devices before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia
Authors: D’Arcy Sarah , Cao Chester , Ahn Steve , Allan Victoria , Ahmadvand Alireza
Published: December 2022

Objective

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted access to primary care in Australia. This could have negatively impacted reproductive health services rates such as intrauterine device insertion rates, and interest in seeking information about intrauterine devices by searching on Google. We aimed to assess the trends of, and the association between, the actual Medicare service utilization rates for intrauterine device insertion and searching about intrauterine devices on Google, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We conducted systematic analyses of secondary data from June 2017 to May 2022, using Medicare and Google Trends data sources. We visualized the rates of intrauterine device insertion, plus Google's search volumes about ‘Intrauterine device’ and ‘Progestin IUDs’ as topics. Then, we assessed the correlation between intrauterine device insertion rates and Google search, using Spearman correlation.

Results

The average yearly rates of intrauterine device insertion increased noticeably from 25.1–26.3 in 2018–2019 to 29.3–31.2 per 100,000 population in 2020–2021 (12–18% increase). The highest monthly intrauterine device insertion rate nationally (37 per 100,000 population) was seen in March 2021. By June 2020, search term use for the two intrauterine device-related topics returned to much higher levels (50% increase for ‘Progestin IUDs’, and 54% for ‘Intrauterine device’, respectively). A moderately strong correlation was seen between actual intrauterine device insertion rates and search on Google about intrauterine devices (Spearman rho = 0.61, p < 0.000).

Conclusion

We demonstrated a moderately strong correlation between trends of intrauterine device insertion rates and search on Google about intrauterine devices, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia. Googling about intrauterine devices could, therefore, be a useful indicator to gauge future interest in actual intrauterine device insertion for months thereafter.
What Knowledge is of Most Worth? Considering the Neo-Confucians in the Contemporary Debate Between Moral and Intellectual Learning
Authors: Shekitka John Patrick
Published: December 2022

Highlights

The perennial debate regarding the relative usefulness of various forms of knowledge, especially between the theoretical and practical and the intellectual and moral, lies at the heart of education in both past and present times in both the West and China (de Bary, 1988, 2004, 2005, 2015). Neo-Confucians remain relevant in the 21st century and can help us to understand and elucidate contemporary debates in education—specifically, to answer the question Spencer asked nearly a century and a half ago: “What knowledge is of most worth?”. Mencius, Zhu Xi, Wang Yangming, Xu Ai, and Kang Youwei advocated for a type of learning that would strongly resonate with John Dewey (1938) and Paulo Freire (1970, 1978). Foundational philosophies of education, particularly in the United States, have drawn heavily on 20th century European-American thinkers; this article attempts to correct this myopia and broaden perspectives.
Exploring Asynchronous Online Parent Training on Transition Knowledge of Parents of Youth With Disabilities
Authors: Chang Wen-hsuan , Mazzotti Valerie L. , Lo Ya-yu , Kwiatek Stephen M. , Test David W.
Published: December 2022

Parents of youth with disabilities require knowledge to support their children in secondary school. In the 21st century, online asynchronous training is one way to provide knowledge to parents in learning secondary transition concepts. We explored the use of an asynchronous online intervention on three parents’ knowledge of the secondary transition process and confidence levels in supporting their children with disabilities. We used a single-case, concurrent multiple baseline design across three transition areas to evaluate parents’ knowledge of secondary transition planning. Preliminary evidence showed the asynchronous online training improved parents’ knowledge of secondary transition for two participants who completed the entire training program across all three transition areas. Limitations and recommendations for future research and practice are discussed.
Thermal investigation and physiochemical interaction of H2O and C2H6O2 saturated by Al2O3 and γAl2O3 nanomaterials
Authors: M. Alharbi Khalid Abdulkhaliq , Adnan
Published: December 2022

Applications:

The interaction of nanoparticles and base solvents of different nature attained much interest of the researchers in the recent time. These use in medication, detection of cancer cells, applied thermal engineering, and electrical and mechanical engineering. Among the broad range of applications, investigation of nanofluid through converging/diverging channel is important which is of much interest in the field of medical sciences.

Purpose and methodology:

The core purpose of this study is to introduce a new heat transfer model for two natures of nanofluids with bi host solvents. The model in hand achieved through nanofluid expressions, similarity equations and induction of novel dissipation effects. At later stage, numerical treatment is performed to explore the actual behaviour of nanofluids inside the oblique walls which is very important.

Core findings:

From the drawn results, it is found that the motion could be controlled by expanding the channel walls ([Formula: see text]) and high Re and in Al2O3-H2O it is optimum. The nanofluids based on Al2O3 and C2H6O2 have much ability to transmit heat than the other nanofluids. Moreover, dissipation effects ([Formula: see text]) played significant role and boosted the temperature while keeping [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. Also, the study is validated and achieved good agreement between existing and the current study.
Disease Control Achieved Using Atezolizumab + Bevacizumab in a Patient With Sarcomatoid Hepatocellular Carcinoma (SHCC), a Rare Variant Excluded From the IMbrave150 Trial
Authors: Fencer Maria G. , Davis Catherine H. , Liu Jieqi , Galan Mark A. , Spencer Kristen R.
Published: December 2022

Sarcomatoid hepatocellular carcinoma (SHCC) is a rare variant of liver cancer that lacks treatment options. The IMbrave trail demonstrated the efficacy of atezolizumab and bevacizumab (A + B) in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma but excluded patients with sarcomatoid variants. Herein, we describe a case of disease control achieved using the IMbrave regimen in a patient with sarcomatoid hepatocellular carcinoma.
Lay Knowledge About Dementia in Iceland: Symptoms and Risk and Protective Factors
Authors: Jónsdóttir María K. , Pálsdóttir Elva Björk , Hannesdóttir Stefanía Ýr , Karlsson Thorlakur
Published: December 2022

No studies are available on the lay knowledge about dementia in Nordic countries. A survey was sent to 829 Icelanders aged 25 to 65 (61.2% female). 60.8% resided in the capital area of Reykjavik. About 90% or more recognized eight of eleven dementia symptoms, with females recognizing them proportionally more often than males. About 50% believed that an individual’s risk of developing dementia could be modified. For individual risk factors, agreement ranged from 4% (hearing loss) to 75.1% (history of brain injury). Knowledge about cardiovascular risk factors ranged from 24.8% (obese) to 43.6% (high blood pressure). Participants acknowledged the importance of a healthy diet and an active lifestyle, but only 8% identified a low education level as a risk factor. Public health campaigns and educational efforts about dementia should focus on the whole lifespan targeting all risk and protective factors operating throughout the lifespan.
Leveraging Chennai’s Complex Governance Network for Addressing the City’s Water Woes
Authors: Roy Parama , Ayyangar Akshaya
Published: December 2022

Chennai’s governance network plays a critical role in shaping the city’s waterscape. Through an urban political ecology (UPE) lens, this article investigates the intersection between water as part of nature and water as shaped by social context, with a focus on existing governance networks. Using a combination of social network analysis and thematic analysis, the article studies data gathered from in-depth semi-structured interviews, workshop discussions with stakeholders, and extensive literature and policy reviews. The analysis reveals a need to reconfigure the urban governance network and the relationships therein to work towards a sustainable future for Chennai’s water system. The article concludes by offering policy recommendations to leverage the strengths and weaknesses of the complex inter-agency relations that shape Chennai’s current waterscape.
Adverse Events in Patients Receiving Placebo in Phase III Trials of Biologics for Psoriasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ajenthen Gayathri Devaraj , Egeberg Alexander , Melgaard Katrine Elsner , Loft Nikolai
Published: December 2022

Background

Patients and practitioners often consider the risk of side effects when starting a treatment for psoriasis and often consult reported adverse events (AE) in studies. However, most of these AEs are unrelated to treatment and patients consider what is the risk of an event should you not start a treatment. This is what would be observed in the placebo-arm of clinical trials.

Objective

To investigate the proportion of patients experiencing AEs during treatment with placebo in clinical trials.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search using PubMed, Embase and Web of Science databases for phase 3 randomized clinical trials that registered adverse events of using placebo vs biological agents for psoriasis. The search term was “ Psoriasis AND (Phase III OR Phase 3)”.

Results

Of 7142 screened articles, 54 were included in the metanalysis. The pooled proportion of placebo-treated patients experiencing any AEs was .52 (95% Cl: .51 to .53) after 12 weeks and .53 (95% Cl: .50 to .55) after 16 weeks. The pooled proportion of patients with any serious AEs was .02 (95% Cl: .01 to .02) and .03 (95% Cl: .02 to .03) after 12 and 16 weeks, respectively. The most common AEs in placebo-treated patients were infections, nasopharyngitis, and headache.

Conclusion

About half of the patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis not starting an active treatment would experience disease events that would be categorized as AEs during a 12-16 weeks period.
Decolonial subjectivities in participatory action research: Resident researcher experiences in the 2021 Guåhan Survey
Authors: Lee Kevin Lujan , Phan Ngoc T , Flores Nolan , Mesngon Josiah Gabriel , Palaganas Aria , Quichocho Chauntae , San Agustin Nikki Aubree
Published: December 2022

Scholarship on participatory action research (PAR) has come a long way since its foundations in Paulo Freire. However, it leaves much room to understand the personal transformations at stake in everyday residents’ participation in PAR—a key mechanism through which PAR contributes to long-term social change in local communities. This literature gap is particularly salient for decolonial PAR, which incorporates Indigenous communities at every stage of the research process, and which is explicitly committed to the political goal of decolonization (i.e. the repatriation of Indigenous lands and oceans). Borrowing heavily from feminist geographical PAR scholarship, we articulate the concept of “decolonial subjectivities” to capture the dynamic, embodied ways in which resident researchers in decolonial PAR connect their own knowledge, experiences, and relationships with ongoing local struggles for Indigenous sovereignty. We then elaborate on this concept through a qualitative analysis of four waves of weekly reflections from five resident researchers in a decolonial PAR project in Guåhan—a modern-day colony, unincorporated territory of the United States, and the southernmost island of Låguas yan Gåni (or the Mariånas archipelago). We find two distinct shifts in resident researchers’ decolonial subjectivities over time: (1) deepening embodied connection to decolonization through situating one’s role in decolonization within a broader set of familial and community relationships; and (2) deepening embodiment of role as decolonial researchers through affirming one’s expertise and power to effectuate change as a researcher supporting and facilitating the continued, ongoing struggle for Indigenous sovereignty.
Wrangling the system: How tenure impacts Indigenous research
Authors: Riley Lorinda , Hulama Kristina , Ka‘eo Ho‘oleia , Paolo Genesia
Published: December 2022

Faculty research agendas are informed by and intertwined with the evaluation process. One’s research agenda influences productivity, choice in methodology, and dissemination decisions. Indigenous researchers often undergo a dual evaluation process—one with their academic institution and another with their Indigenous communities. Indigenous researchers, situated in the liminal space between these two spheres, need control over the research process in order to conduct the type of research their communities desire, while meeting the standards of their institution. Using a series of talk stories with Indigenous faculty, this article explores how the tenure process often is a barrier to Indigenous research sovereignty. Indigenous faculty, in this study, articulated feeling lonely and, at times, ill-prepared due to a lack of mentors, prior traumatic academic experiences, and the weight of the many facets of a faculty position. They also noted a disconnect between their institutional processes and Indigenous methods and felt that administration needed to make changes, especially in terms of faculty evaluation through the tenure criteria. Improving the tenure process for Indigenous faculty could have rippling effects beyond individual faculty, expanding into Indigenous communities by providing space for Indigenous faculty to conduct important research that is relevant to their communities.
The tetraspanin CD53 protects stressed hematopoietic stem cells via promotion of DREAM complex–mediated quiescence
Authors: Greenberg Zev J. , Paracatu Luana Chiquetto , Monlish Darlene A. , Dong Qian , Rettig Michael , Roundy Nate , Gaballa Rofaida , Li Weikai , Yang Wei , Luke Cliff J. , Schuettpelz Laura G.
Published: December 2022

The hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) cycle responds to inflammatory and other proliferative stressors; however, these cells must quickly return to quiescence to avoid exhaustion and maintain their functional integrity. The mechanisms that regulate this return to quiescence are not well understood. Here, we show that tetraspanin CD53 is markedly upregulated in HSCs in response to a variety of inflammatory and proliferative stimuli and that the loss of CD53 is associated with prolonged cycling and reduced HSC function in the context of inflammatory stress. Mechanistically, CD53 promotes the activity of the dimerization partner, RB-like, E2F, and multi-vulva class B (DREAM) transcriptional repressor complex, which downregulates genes associated with cycling and division. Proximity labeling and confocal fluorescence microscopy studies showed that CD53 interacts with DREAM-associated proteins, specifically promoting the interaction between Rbl2/p130 and its phosphatase protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), effectively stabilizing p130 protein availability for DREAM binding. Together, these data identified a novel mechanism by which stressed HSCs resist cycling.
Differential diagnosis of bone marrow failure syndromes guided by machine learning
Authors: Gutierrez-Rodrigues Fernanda , Munger Eric , Ma Xiaoyang , Groarke Emma M. , Tang Youbao , Patel Bhavisha A , Catto Luiz Fernando B. , Clé Diego V , Niewisch Marena R. , Paiva Raquel MA , Donaires Flavia , Pinto André Luiz , Borges Gustavo , Santana Barbara A. , McReynolds Lisa J , Giri Neelam , Altintas Burak , Fan Xing , Shalhoub Ruba N , Siwy Christopher Mark , Diamond Carrie , Quinones Raffo Diego , Craft Kathleen Marie , Kajigaya Sachiko , Summers Ronald M , Liu Paul P. , Cunningham Lea , Hickstein Dennis D , Dunbar Cynthia E. , Pasquini Ricardo , de Oliveira Michel Michels , Velloso Elvira D R P , Alter Blanche P , Savage Sharon A , Bonfim Carmem M.S. , Wu Colin O. , Calado Rodrigo T. , Young Neal S
Published: December 2022

The choice to postpone treatment while awaiting genetic testing can result in significant delay in definitive therapies in severely pancytopenic patients. Conversely, inherited bone marrow failure (BMF) misdiagnosis can expose patients to ineffectual and expensive therapies, toxic transplant conditioning regimens, and inappropriate use of an affected family member as a stem cell donor. To predict the likelihood of patients having acquired or inherited BMF, we developed a two-step data-driven machine-learning model using 25 clinical and laboratory variables typically recorded at the initial clinical encounter. For model's development, patients were labeled as having acquired or inherited BMF depending on their genomic data. Datasets were unbiasedly clustered and an ensemble model was trained with cases from the largest cluster of the training cohort (n=359) and validated with an independent cohort (n=127). Cluster A, the largest group, was mostly immune or inherited aplastic anemia, whereas Cluster B was composed of underrepresented BMF phenotypes, and not included in the next step of data modeling due to small sample size. The ensemble model Cluster A-specific was accurate (89%) to predict BMF etiology, correctly predicting inherited and likely immune BMF in 79% and 92% of cases, respectively. Our model represents a practical guide for BMF diagnosis and highlights the importance of clinical and laboratory variables in the initial evaluation, particularly telomere length. Our tool can be potentially used by general hematologists and health care providers not specialized in BMF, and in under-resourced centers, to prioritize patients for genetic testing or for expeditious treatment.
Ibrutinib plus RICE or RVICI for relapsed/refractory mature B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma in children and young adults: SPARKLE trial
Authors: Burke G. A. Amos , Vinti Luciana , Kabickova Edita , Beishuizen Auke , Tacyildiz Nurdan , Uyttebroeck Anne , Kang Hyoung Jin , Luisi Flavio , Minard-Colin Véronique , Burkhardt Birgit , Tamegnon Monelle , Sun Steven , Curtis Madeliene , Deshpande Sanjay , Nottage Kerri , Howes Angela , Srinivasan Srimathi , Bhojwani Deepa , Norris Robin , Cairo Mitchell
Published: December 2022

Part 1 results of the open-label, randomized, global phase 3 SPARKLE trial supported continued assessment of ibrutinib with either modified rituximab, ifosfamide, carboplatin, and etoposide (RICE) or rituximab, vincristine, ifosfamide, carboplatin, idarubicin, and dexamethasone (RVICI) in pediatric patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) mature B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL). We report final results of Part 2 evaluating the efficacy of ibrutinib plus RICE or RVICI vs RICE/RVICI alone. Patients aged 1 to 30 years (initial diagnosis <18 years) were randomized 2:1 to receive ibrutinib with or without RICE/RVICI. Primary endpoint was event-free survival (EFS) based on independent committee-confirmed events. Fifty-one patients were enrolled. Median age was 15 years; Burkitt lymphoma, Burkitt leukemia, and Burkitt-like lymphoma (total: 45%) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma/primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (51%) were the most common subtypes. At the preplanned interim analysis, median EFS was 6.1 vs 7.0 months with ibrutinib plus RICE/RVICI vs RICE/RVICI, respectively (hazard ratio, 0.9; 90% confidence interval, 0.5-1.6; P = .387); further enrollment was ceased. With ibrutinib plus RICE/RVICI vs RICE/RVICI, median overall survival was 14.1 vs 11.1 months, overall response rate was 69% vs 81%, and 46% vs 44% proceeded to stem cell transplantation. In both treatment arms, 100% of patients experienced grade ≥3 treatment-emergent adverse events. No EFS benefit was seen with ibrutinib. Salvage was generally poor in patients who received prior rituximab, regardless of treatment arm. No new safety signals were observed. Ibrutinib exposure in pediatric patients fell within the target range of exposure in adults. Trial is registered on www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02703272)
Role of autophagy in lung diseases and ageing
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zhang Jin , Fu Zhiling
Published: December 2022

The lungs face ongoing chemical, mechanical, biological, immunological and xenobiotic stresses over a lifetime. Advancing age progressively impairs lung function. Autophagy is a “housekeeping” survival strategy involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes in all eukaryotic cells. Autophagic activity decreases with age in several species, whereas its basic activity extends throughout the lifespan of most animals. Dysregulation of autophagy has been proven to be closely related to the pathogenesis of several ageing-related pulmonary diseases. This review summarises the role of autophagy in the pathogenesis of pulmonary diseases associated with or occurring in the context of ageing, including acute lung injury, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and pulmonary fibrosis, and describes its potential as a therapeutic target.
Potentially Useful Dwarfing or Semi-dwarfing Genes in Rice Breeding in Addition to the sd1 Gene
Authors: Cheng Xiaoyan , Huang Yongping , Tan Yong , Tan Lin , Yin Jianhua , Zou Guoxing
Published: December 2022

The “Green revolution” gene sd1 has been used widely in the breeding of modern rice varieties for over half a century. The application of this gene has increased rice yields and thereby supported a significant proportion of the global population. The use of a single gene, however, has raised concerns in the scientific community regarding its durability, especially given the bottleneck in genetic background and the need for large input of fertilizer. New dwarfing or semi-dwarfing genes are needed to alleviate our dependence on the sole “Green revolution” gene. In the past few years, several new dwarfing and semi-dwarfing genes as well as their mutants have been reported. Here, we provide an extensive review of the recent discoveries concerning newly identified genes that are potentially useful in rice breeding, including methods employed to create and effectively screen new rice mutants, the phenotypic characteristics of the new dwarfing and semi-dwarfing mutants, potential values of the new dwarfing and semi-dwarfing genes in rice breeding, and potential molecular mechanisms associated with the newly identified genes.
HEC-ASD: a hybrid ensemble-based classification model for predicting autism spectrum disorder disease genes
Authors: Ismail Eman , Gad Walaa , Hashem Mohamed
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the most prevalent disease today. The causes of its infection may be attributed to genetic causes by 80% and environmental causes by 20%. In spite of this, the majority of the current research is concerned with environmental causes, and the least proportion with the genetic causes of the disease. Autism is a complex disease, which makes it difficult to identify the genes that cause the disease.

Methods

Hybrid ensemble-based classification (HEC-ASD) model for predicting ASD genes using gradient boosting machines is proposed. The proposed model utilizes gene ontology (GO) to construct a gene functional similarity matrix using hybrid gene similarity (HGS) method. HGS measures the semantic similarity between genes effectively. It combines the graph-based method, such as Wang method with the number of directed children’s nodes of gene term from GO. Moreover, an ensemble gradient boosting classifier is adapted to enhance the prediction of genes forming a robust classification model.

Results

The proposed model is evaluated using the Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI) gene database. The experimental results are promising as they improve the classification performance for predicting ASD genes. The results are compared with other approaches that used gene regulatory network (GRN), protein to protein interaction network (PPI), or GO. The HEC-ASD model reaches the highest prediction accuracy of 0.88% using ensemble learning classifiers.

Conclusion

The proposed model demonstrates that ensemble learning technique using gradient boosting is effective in predicting autism spectrum disorder genes. Moreover, the HEC-ASD model utilized GO rather than using PPI network and GRN.