bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Market Share Instability and Market Concentration: A Sport/Discipline-Specific Study of the Summer Olympic Games 1992–2020
Authors: Zheng Jinming , Oh Taeyeon , Dickson Geoff , Hedlund David P. , Zhong Tao , De Bosscher Veerle
Published: May 2024

This article examines sport/discipline-specific market concentrations in the context of the eight Summer Olympic Games held between 1992 and 2020. Three market concentration-related debates underpin this study: (1) the number of competing firms; (2) market size; and (3) time. A normalized version of the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHIN) is calculated for gold medal and medal concentrations for all 42 sports/disciplines. The analyses included panel data models and Pearson correlations. The main findings are that (1) market concentrations for (gold) medals within most sport/disciplines have not significantly declined over time; and (2) neither an increased number of competing National Olympic Committees (NOCs) nor increased market size is likely to have impacted market concentration within a sport/discipline. The findings advance the understanding of market concentration trends and have implications for elite sport practitioners including the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and International Federations (IFs) in terms of an evaluation of existing measures introduced to promote competitive balance, and NOCs in terms of resource distribution among sports/disciplines and prioritization strategies.
Teacher Emotional Support Facilitates Academic Engagement Through Positive Academic Emotions and Mastery-Approach Goals Among College Students
Authors: Shen Sha , Tang Tianqi , Pu Linjie , Mao Yunqing , Wang Zibin , Wang Saidi
Published: May 2024

Previous research has indicated that students’ academic engagement is related to their emotional support from teachers. However, there is scarce evidence on how teacher emotional support relates to students’ academic engagement. Given the potential role of positive academic emotions in learning, this study investigated the mediating role of students’ positive academic emotions in the relationship between teacher emotional support and academic engagement among Chinese college students. Additionally, this study examined how mastery-approach goals moderated positive academic emotions. A survey instrument containing teacher emotional support, positive academic emotions, mastery-approach goals, and academic engagement was administered to 464 Chinese college students. The results demonstrated that students’ emotional support from their teachers positively influenced their academic engagement. Positive academic emotions mediated the relationship between teacher emotional support and students’ academic engagement. Furthermore, the mastery-approach goals moderated the mediating role of positive academic emotions. Finally, the implications for teachers in teaching for practice and the application prospects are discussed.
The Impact of Narrative Role on Consumers’ Purchase Intentions in the Agricultural Product Live Stream: A Study Based on the Theory of Perspective Taking
Authors: Chen Tingting , Fan Xinqiao , Fan Jun , Chen Wei , He Jiayu
Published: May 2024

This study aims to investigate the relationships of narrative role, empathy, host identification, spatial distance, and purchase intention. This study conducts three experiments with 460 participants to analyze the influencing mechanism of narrative role (in-group vs. out-group) on consumers’ purchase intentions from the perspective of empathy and host identification through three experiments in different spatial distances (distant vs. close). (a) The study found that in the context of agricultural product live stream, hosts taking an in-group character are more likely to trigger consumers’ purchase intentions than hosts taking an out-group character. (b) Empathy and host identification play a mediating role in the impact of the narrative role on consumers’ purchase intentions. (c) The impact of the host’s narrative role on purchase intention does not significantly differ in a spatially distant location. Compared to the host as an out-group character, the host as an in-group character is more likely to promote consumers’ purchase intention when the spatial distance is close.
Who Leads? Who Follows? Exploring Agenda Setting by Media, Social Bots and Public in the Discussion of the 2022 South Korean Presidential Election
Authors: Zhang Menghan , Qi Xue , Liu Xinyan , Zhang Ke
Published: May 2024

Social media not only changes the traditional communication environment but also brings new changes to agenda-setting. The main body of agenda-setting has shifted from the traditional media to the politicians, political parties and grassroots people. With the increasing use of social bots in public opinion manipulation and political election interference, whether they can participate in or influence agenda-setting has become an urgent concern. So far, there has been less literature focusing on engagement in agenda-setting for social bots. This paper studies the social media discussion content of the South Korean presidential election, determines the participation of social bots, and explores the connection between media agenda, bot agenda, and public agenda from the perspective of agenda setting. This study finds that while the main agendas of media, social bots, and the public are not the same, their agendas are relevant. In addition, the media agenda is not timely ahead of the bot agenda and the public agenda, and the time order only appears between the social bots and the public.
The Influence of Meta-Cognitive Listening Strategies on Listening Performance in the MALL: The Mediation Effect of Learning Style and Self-Efficacy
Authors: Shaojie Tan , Abd Samad Arshad , Ismail Lilliati
Published: May 2024

The ability to understand listening is an essential skill for non-native speakers of English as a foreign language (EFL). Research has shown that several factors can influence EFL students’ English listening comprehension, including the listening strategy they use during listening activities. This study, therefore, used the meta-cognitive listening strategy to explore the mediation role of learning style and self-efficacy in the relationship with listening performance. In this study, 632 Chinese university students participated in a survey and completed electronic questionnaires on MALQ (Meta-cognitive Awareness of Listening Questionnaire), PLSPQ (Perceptual Learning Style Preference Questionnaire), and GSE (General Self-Efficacy Scale). The data were analyzed using AMOS software and a structural equation modeling (SEM) technique. The results showed that students’ listening strategy directly and positively predicted their English listening performance. Moreover, students’ listening performance was fully mediated by learning style and self-efficacy. After discussing these findings, suggestions as well as limitations for future studies will be given. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to a better understanding of the factors that may affect EFL students’ English listening comprehension and inform instructional practices in the EFL classroom. Specifically, the results of this study may suggest the use of teaching strategies tailored to individual learning styles and the adoption of measures to improve self-efficacy of EFL students. Ultimately, the goal of this research is to improve EFL students’ English listening comprehension skills and enhance their overall language proficiency.
Human Capital Impacts of Income Inequality: An Extensive Empirical Analysis from the African Continent
Authors: SenGupta Swapnanil
Published: May 2024

This paper evaluates the impacts of income inequality on life expectancy in African countries. The empirical analysis has been performed on a panel dataset of 52 African nations covering the period of 1995 to 2018. For estimating the inequality-health relationship, I have used Two-Stage Least Squares (2SLS) technique and a Panel Error Correction Model (PECM). The long-run cointegrating relationship was estimated using a Panel Dynamic Ordinary Least Square (PDOLS) estimator. The outcomes suggest that income inequality has negatively affected life expectancy at birth in the African continent overall. Though income inequality seems to have improved health in the short-run, in the long-run, income inequality had deleterious effects. A series of steps has been followed to check the soundness of the result of the main empirical examination and it is confirmed that the results are robust.
Hope as the Mediator in the Relation Between Resilience and Life Satisfaction among Tibetan Orphans
Authors: Yan Wei , Huang Qi , Wang Yuling , Ni Zijun , Peng Kaiping , Zhang Peng
Published: May 2024

As an extremely disadvantaged group, orphans have received extensive attention from researchers. However, previous research focused on their survival status and psychological distress. The present study aims to explore the mechanism of orphans’ life satisfaction from the perspective of positive psychology. We conducted a survey among Tibetan orphans ( n = 131) and compared the results with Tibetan non-orphans ( n = 134). A mediation model was used to assess associations between resilience and life satisfaction, and the intermediary role of dimensions of hope (agency thinking and pathways thinking). Results indicated that, among orphans, agency thinking acted as a mediator in the mediation model, while pathways thinking did not. Moreover, hope dimensions did not play mediating roles between resilience and life satisfaction among non-orphans. The results highlighted that resilience is of vital importance for orphans’ life satisfaction. It was expected to inspire psychologists to develop specific interventions on resilience for orphans to enhance their internal resources (such as agency thinking of hope) and life satisfaction.
Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma With Cardiac Invasion Presented as Acute Myocardial Infarction and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy: A Case Report
Authors: Liu Zhengjiang , Pan Xingshou , MO Jianjiao , Deng Tongyuan , Cen Tuan , Wei Baomin , Chen Chengcai
Published: May 2024

Primary cardiac lymphoma is an exceedingly rare malignant tumor, with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) being the most prevalent histological subtype. This disease has non-specific clinical manifestations, making early diagnosis crucial. However, DLBCL diagnosis is commonly delayed, and its prognosis is typically poor. Herein, we report the case of a 51-year-old male patient with DLBCL who presented with recurrent chest tightness for 4 months as the primary clinical symptom. The patient was admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction and left ventricular hypertrophy with heart failure. Echocardiography revealed a progression from left ventricular thickening to local pericardial thickening and adhesion in the inferior and lateral walls of the left ventricle. Finally, pathological analysis of myocardial biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of DLBCL. After treatment with the R-CHOP chemotherapy regimen, the patient’s chest tightness improved, and he was discharged. After 2 months, the patient succumbed to death owing to sudden ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and decreased blood pressure despite rescue efforts. Transthoracic echocardiography is inevitable for the early diagnosis of DLBCL, as it can narrow the differential and guide further investigations and interventions, thereby improving the survival of these patients.
Association of Posterior Tibial Slope With Outcomes After Multiligamentous Knee Reconstruction for Knee Dislocation Grades 2 to 4
Authors: Conyer Ryan T. , Wang Allen S. , Langhans Mark T. , Krych Aaron J. , Hevesi Mario , Okoroha Kelechi R. , Stuart Michael J. , Levy Bruce A.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Patients with isolated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction have demonstrated an increased risk of ACL graft failure and lower patient-reported outcome (PRO) scores when increased posterior tibial slope (PTS) is present. However, there is a paucity of literature evaluating the effect of PTS on outcomes after combined bicruciate multiligamentous knee reconstruction.

Purpose:

To determine whether differences exist for graft failure rates or PRO scores based on PTS after combined bicruciate multiligamentous knee reconstruction.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

All patients who underwent combined ACL and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction between 2000 and 2020 at our institution were identified. Exclusion criteria were age <18 years, knee dislocation grade 5 injuries, concomitant osteotomy procedures, and <2 years of clinical follow-up. Demographic and outcomes data were collected from our prospectively gathered multiligamentous knee injury database. Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores were analyzed in relation to PTS. Outcomes were compared for patients with a PTS above and below the mean for the total cohort, PTS >12° versus <12°, positive versus negative Lachman test at follow-up, and positive versus negative posterior drawer test at follow-up.

Results:

A total of 98 knees in 98 patients were included in the study, with a mean clinical follow-up of 5.1 years (median, 4.6 years; range, 2-16 years). The mean PTS was 8.7° (range, 0.4°-16.9°). Linear regression analysis showed no significant correlation between PTS and IKDC or Lysholm scores. Patients with a PTS above the mean of 8.7° trended toward lower IKDC ( P = .08) and Lysholm ( P = .06) scores. Four patients experienced ACL graft failure and 5 patients experienced PCL graft failure. There were no differences in graft failure rates or PRO scores for patients with a PTS >12°. Patients with a positive Lachman test trended toward higher PTS (9.6° vs 8.5°, P = .15).

Conclusion:

In this series of bicruciate multiligamentous knee reconstructions at midterm follow-up, no differences in graft failures, complications, reoperations, revisions, or PRO scores based on PTS were identified. Patients with a positive Lachman test were found to have a slightly higher PTS, although this did not reach statistical significance.
Understanding the grain deal and its pitfalls: Going beyond food security?
Authors: Dufy Caroline
Published: May 2024

In July 2023, the grain deal was denounced by Russia. Its termination was followed by massive bombing of Ukraine’s grain infrastructure. However, its signature in July 2022 had been welcomed by international organisations as good news for global food security. This article discusses the relevance of the concept of food security for understanding the difficulties of the grain deal. Ultimately, it suggests a theoretical revision of the concept.
Assessment of Smartphone Medical Applications as a Self-Directed Learning Tool for Medical Students and Compulsory Rotatory Residential Internship—A KAP Survey
Authors: Shanmuga Vadivoo Natarajan , Sudha Krishnan , Usha Balasundaram
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES

Smartphones have become a powerful instrument in academic life for medical professions worldwide. Global lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic culminated in the closure of educational institutions and resulted in shifting to online teaching. In our newly implemented competency-based medical education curriculum (CBME) for medical graduates, self-directed learning (SDL) is one of the teachings—learning methods. Smartphones are an essential tool for SDL in medical school. This main objective of the study is to determine the usage of health apps in a tertiary care teaching hospital to encourage the medical students and compulsory rotatory residential internship (CRRI) to continue SDL process.

METHODS

This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted for the period of 30 days for medical students and CRRI's at a tertiary care teaching hospital. The population was selected using convenient sampling method. This anonymous questionnaire was validated by the experts and the questions encompassing knowledge, attitude and perception (KAP Survey) of the students toward smartphone medical apps was utilized for this survey.

RESULTS

Out of 582 participants, only 250 students (43%) have participated in the survey. Our study shows that 95% of students were handling android smartphones, and 84% of them were using various medical applications on them and it leads to SDL.

CONCLUSION

The impact of the lockdown has increased SDL. Majority of the students (51.8-69.8%) have agreed that medical apps enhanced their SDL and helped them to study independently.
Race-Based Differences in the Response to a Mindfulness Based Integrative Medical Group Visit Intervention for Chronic Pain
Authors: Incollingo Rodriguez Angela C. , Nephew Benjamin C. , Polcari Justin J. , Melican Veronica , King Jean A. , Gardiner Paula
Published: May 2024

Background

Chronic pain is one of the most common drivers of healthcare utilization and a marked domain for health disparities, as African American/Black populations experience high rates of chronic pain. Integrative Medical Group Visits (IMGV) combine mindfulness techniques, evidence-based integrative medicine, and medical group visits. In a parent randomized controlled trial, this approach was tested as an adjunct treatment in a diverse, medically underserved population with chronic pain and depression.

Objective

To determine race-based heterogeneity in the effects of a mindfulness based treatment for chronic pain.

Methods

This secondary analysis of the parent trial assessed heterogeneity of treatment effects along racialized identity in terms of primary patient-reported pain outcomes in a racially diverse sample suffering from chronic pain and depression. The analytic approach examined comorbidities and sociodemographics between racialized groups. RMANOVAs examined trajectories in pain outcomes (average pain, pain severity, and pain interference) over three timepoints (baseline, 9, and 21 weeks) between participants identifying as African American/Black (n = 90) vs White (n = 29) across both intervention and control conditions.

Results

At baseline, African American/Black participants had higher pain severity and had significantly different age, work status, and comorbidity profiles. RMANOVA models also identified significant race-based differences in the response to the parent IMGV intervention. There was reduced pain severity in African American/Black subjects in the IMGV condition from baseline to 9 weeks. This change was not observed in White participants over this time period. However, there was a reduction in pain severity in White participants over the subsequent interval from 9 to 21 week where IMGV had no significant effect in African American/Black subjects during this latter time period.

Conclusion

Interactions between pain and racialization require further investigation to understand how race-based heterogeneity in the response to integrative medicine treatments for chronic pain contribute to the broader landscape of health inequity.
A worldwide look into long COVID-19 management: an END-COVID survey
Authors: Nigro Mattia , Valenzuela Claudia , Arancibia Francisco , Cohen Mark , Lam David C.L. , Maves Ryan C. , Rath Barbara , Simpson Steven Q. , Song Yuanlin , Tsiodras Sotirios , Chalmers James D. , Aliberti Stefano
Published: May 2024

Background

Long COVID is a heterogeneous clinical syndrome characterised by a variety of reported symptoms and signs. Its clinical management is expected to differ significantly worldwide.

Methods

A survey-based study investigating long COVID-related standard operating procedures (SOPs) has been conducted by the European Respiratory Society (ERS) END-COVID clinical research collaboration with the support of other international societies (ALAT, APSR, CHEST, ESCMID and PATS). A global analysis of the results is provided here, alongside sub-population analysis based on continents, national income levels, type of involved healthcare professional and inclusion or exclusion of paediatric patients.

Findings

1015 healthcare professionals from 110 different countries worldwide participated in this study, the majority of them being respiratory physicians (60.6%). A dedicated long COVID programme was present in 55.4% of the investigated institutions, with hospital admission during the acute infection being the main inclusion criteria to access them. Consistent differences in long COVID-related procedures were identified among centres, mainly regarding the multidisciplinary approach, the availability of telemedicine and psychological support, the type of requested exams and the total amount of visits in the centre.

Interpretation

Long COVID management shows important differences related to geographical areas and national income levels. SOPs were significantly different when centres were managed by a pulmonologist or when paediatric patients were included.
Persistent disabilities 28 months after COVID-19 hospitalization, a prospective cohort study
Authors: Renaud Bertrand , Chocron Richard , Reverdito Guillaume , Blanchard Anne , Hua-Huy Thong , Diehl Jean-Luc , Livrozet Marine , Subileau Marielle , Lemogne Cédric , El-Batti Salma , Auclin Edouard , Jannot Anne-Sophie , Rance Bastien , Mousseaux Elie , Smadja David , Lebeaux David , Hulot Jean-Sébastien , Sanchez Olivier , Günther Sven
Published: May 2024

Background

Limited data are available on long-term respiratory disabilities in patients following acute COVID-19.

Patients and Methods

This prospective, monocentric, observational cohort study included patients admitted to our hospital with acute COVID-19 between March 3 and April 24, 2020. Clinical, functional, and radiological data were collected up to 28 months after hospital discharge.

Results

Among 715 patients hospitalized for COVID-19, 493 (69.0%) were discharged alive. We could access complete medical records for 268/493 patients (54.4%); 138/268 (51.5%) exhibited persistent respiratory symptoms and agreed with the data collection and follow-up. Patients were predominantly male (64.5%), with a mean (±sd) age of 58.9±15.3 years. At the last follow-up, the leading symptoms were asthenia (31.5%), dyspnoea (29.8%), and neuropsychological symptoms (17.7%). Lung function improved up to the last visit. Mean diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) was 77.8% of predicted value, total lung capacity (TLC) 83.5%, and O2desaturation during exercise (O2desaturation) −2.3%. While DLCO improved over the entire period, TLC improved in the early phase and O2desaturation in the late phase. Except for those with lung comorbidities, only one patient presented with minor functional and chest radiological alterations at 28-months.

Conclusion

Patients with acute COVID-19 discharged alive showed improved clinical symptoms, lung function parameters and radiological signs up to 28 months post infection. Persistent symptoms consisted mainly of asthenia and dyspnoea, with lung function returning to normal. One patient without prior respiratory issues exhibited moderate pulmonary fibrosis.
Exploring the concept of disease control in chronic cough
Authors: Park Jin Young , Jun Haesung , Lee Seung-Eun , Won Ha-Kyeong , Kang Sung-Yoon , Kang Noeul , Oh Ji-Yoon , Kim Young-Chan , Park So-Young , An Jin , Yoo Youngsang , Kim Mi-Yeong , Lee Hwa Young , Shim Ji-Su , Kim Min-Hye , Kim Sae-Hoon , Kim Sang-Heon , Chang Yoon-Seok , Kim Sang-Hoon , Lee Byung-Jae , Birring Surinder S. , Song Woo-Jung
Published: May 2024

Background

Disease control in chronic diseases is an overarching concept that reflects the degree to which the goals of therapy are met. However, to date, there is no consensus on the definition of disease control in chronic cough. This study aimed to provide a conceptual exploration of patient-reported cough control in chronic cough.

Methods

This research is comprised of two subanalyses. First, patients with chronic cough receiving care at referral clinics were evaluated. Correlation analyses were performed between patient-reported cough control (a 5-point Likert scale), cough-specific patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and generic health PRO scores. Second, a survey was conducted among patients with refractory chronic cough and physicians to identify factors pertinent to cough control.

Results

The analysis of 341 patients (mean age: 55.5±15.1 years; female: 66.6%) revealed that cough control rating was moderately correlated with cough severity visual analogue scale and Leicester Cough Questionnaire scores, while demonstrating weaker correlations with cough-associated throat symptoms, cough-related complications or general health-related quality of life (QoL). In the survey of patients and physicians, both groups considered certain factors, such as cough frequency, severity and impact on QoL, to be relevant to the concept of cough control. However, patients rated “need for cough rescue drug” notably higher than physicians.

Conclusion

Patient-reported cough control was associated with cough severity or impact on QoL; however, cough control may not be fully captured by conventional cough PRO measurement tools. Further studies are warranted to define the consensus and tools to measure disease control in chronic cough.
Characteristics and outcomes of gemcitabine-associated pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Mouillot Pierre , Favrolt Nicolas , Khouri Charles , Grandvuillemin Aurélie , Chaumais Marie-Camille , Schenesse Déborah , Seferian Andrei , Jais Xavier , Savale Laurent , Beltramo Guillaume , Sitbon Olivier , Cracowski Jean-Luc , Humbert Marc , Georges Marjolaine , Bonniaud Philippe , Montani David
Published: May 2024

Background

Despite its known cardiac and lung toxicities, the chemotherapy drug gemcitabine has only rarely been associated with pulmonary hypertension (PH), and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The objective of the present study was to assess the association between gemcitabine and PH.

Methods

We identified incident cases of precapillary PH confirmed by right heart catheterisation in patients treated with gemcitabine from the French PH Registry between January 2007 and December 2022. The aetiology, clinical, functional, radiological and haemodynamic characteristics of PH were reviewed at baseline and during follow-up. A pharmacovigilance disproportionality analysis was conducted using the World Health Organization (WHO) pharmacovigilance database.

Results

We identified nine cases of pulmonary arterial hypertension, either induced (in eight patients) or exacerbated (in one patient) by gemcitabine. Patients exhibited severe precapillary PH, with a median mean pulmonary arterial pressure of 40 (range 26–47) mmHg, a cardiac index of 2.4 (1.6–3.9) L·min−1·m−2and a pulmonary vascular resistance of 6.3 (3.1–12.6) Wood units. The median time from the initiation of gemcitabine to the onset of PH was 7 (4–50) months, with patients receiving a median of 16 (6–24) gemcitabine injections. Six patients showed clinical improvement upon discontinuation of gemcitabine. In the WHO pharmacovigilance database, we identified a significant signal with 109 cases reporting at least one adverse event related to PH with gemcitabine.

Conclusion

Both clinical cases and pharmacovigilance data substantiate a significant association between gemcitabine use and the onset or worsening of precapillary PH. The observed improvement following the discontinuation of treatment underscores the importance of PH screening in gemcitabine-exposed patients experiencing unexplained dyspnoea.
Expression of intramuscular extracellular matrix proteins in vastus lateralis muscle fibres between atrophic and non-atrophic COPD
Authors: Kritikaki Efpraxia , Terzis Gerasimos , Soundararajan Meera , Vogiatzis Ioannis , Simoes Davina C.M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins are the major constituents of the muscle cell micro-environment, imparting instructive signalling, steering cell behaviour and controlling muscle regeneration. ECM remodelling is among the most affected signalling pathways in COPD and aged muscle. As a fraction of COPD patients present muscle atrophy, we questioned whether ECM composition would be altered in patients with peripheral muscle wasting (atrophic COPD) compared to those without muscle wasting (non-atrophic COPD).

Methods

A set of ECM molecules with known impact on myogenesis were quantified in vastus lateralis muscle biopsies from 29 COPD patients (forced expiratory volume in 1 s 55±12% predicted) using ELISA and real-time PCR. COPD patients were grouped to atrophic or non-atrophic based on fat-free mass index (<17 or ≥17 kg·m−2).

Results

Atrophic COPD patients presented a lower average vastus lateralis muscle fibre cross-sectional area (3872±258 μm2) compared to non-atrophic COPD (4509±198 μm2). Gene expression of ECM molecules was found significantly lower in atrophic COPD compared to non-atrophic COPD for collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1), fibronectin (FN1), tenascin C (TNC) and biglycan (BGN).In terms of protein levels, there were no significant differences between the two COPD cohorts for any of the ECM molecules tested.

Conclusions

Although atrophic COPD presented decreased contractile muscle tissue, the differences in ECM mRNA expression between atrophic and non-atrophic COPD were not translated at the protein level, potentially indicating an accumulation of long-lived ECM proteins and dysregulated proteostasis, as is typically observed during deconditioning and ageing.
Upregulated dual oxidase 1-induced oxidative stress and caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis reflect the etiologies of heart failure
Authors: Li Yan Song , Xia Jingwen , Chen Chang Yuan , Ren Shu Hong , He Mao Rong
Published: May 2024

Background

Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of heart failure. Dual oxidase 1 (DUOX1) might be important in heart failure development through its mediating role in oxidative stress. This study was designed to evaluate the potential role of DUOX1 in heart failure.

Materials and methods

AC16 cells were treated with 2 µmol/L of doxorubicin (DOX) for 12, 24, and 48 h to construct a heart failure model. DUOX1 overexpression and silencing in AC16 cell were established. DUOX1 expression was detected by Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot. Pyroptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were measured by flow cytometry.

Results

Increased DUOX1 expression levels were observed after DOX treatment for 24 h in AC16 cells. DUOX1 silencing inhibited DOX-induced pyroptosis and ROS production. The release of IL-1β, IL-18, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and expression levels of pyroptosis-related proteins were also decreased. DUOX1 overexpression increased pyroptosis, ROS production, IL-1β, IL-18, and LDH release, and pyroptosis-related protein expression. N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) significantly reversed DUOX1-induced pyroptosis, ROS, and related factors.

Conclusion

These results suggest that DUOX1-derived genotoxicity could promote heart failure development. In the process, oxidative stress and pyroptosis may be involved in the regulation of DUOX1 in heart failure.
Genetic diversity, phylogeography, and maternal origin of yak (Bos grunniens)
Authors: Wang Xingdong , Pei Jie , Xiong Lin , Bao Pengjia , Chu Min , Ma Xiaoming , La Yongfu , Liang Chunnian , Yan Ping , Guo Xian
Published: May 2024

Background

There is no consensus as to the origin of the domestic yak (Bos grunniens). Previous studies on yak mitochondria mainly focused on mitochondrial displacement loop (D-loop), a region with low phylogenetic resolution. Here, we analyzed the entire mitochondrial genomes of 509 yaks to obtain greater phylogenetic resolution and a comprehensive picture of geographical diversity.

Results

A total of 278 haplotypes were defined in 509 yaks from 21 yak breeds. Among them, 28 haplotypes were shared by different varieties, and 250 haplotypes were unique to specific varieties. The overall haplotype diversity and nucleotide diversity of yak were 0.979 ± 0.0039 and 0.00237 ± 0.00076, respectively. Phylogenetic tree and network analysis showed that yak had three highly differentiated genetic branches with high support rate. The differentiation time of clades I and II were about 0.4328 Ma, and the differentiation time of clades (I and II) and III were 0.5654 Ma. Yushu yak is shared by all haplogroups. Most (94.70%) of the genetic variation occurred within populations, and only 5.30% of the genetic variation occurred between populations. The classification showed that yaks and wild yaks were first clustered together, and yaks were clustered with American bison as a whole. Altitude had the highest impact on the distribution of yaks.

Conclusions

Yaks have high genetic diversity and yak populations have experienced population expansion and lack obvious phylogeographic structure. During the glacial period, yaks had at least three or more glacial refugia.
Examining dynamic developmental trends: the interrelationship between age-friendly environments and healthy aging in the Chinese population—evidence from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, 2011–2018
Authors: Cheng Yan , Chen Zhi-liang , Wei Yue , Gu Ning , Tang Shao-liang
Published: May 2024

Background

The objective of this research is to investigate the dynamic developmental trends between Age-Friendly Environments (AFE) and healthy aging in the Chinese population.

Methods

This study focused on a sample of 11,770 participants from the CHARLS and utilized the ATHLOS Healthy Aging Index to assess the level of healthy aging among the Chinese population. Linear mixed model (LMM) was used to explore the relationship between AFE and healthy aging. Furthermore, a cross-lagged panel model (CLPM) and a random-intercept cross-lagged panel model (RI-CLPM) were used to examine the dynamic developmental trends of healthy aging, taking into account both Between-Person effects and Within-Person effects.

Results

The results from LMM showed a positive correlation between AFE and healthy aging (β = 0.087, p < 0.001). There was a positive interaction between the geographic distribution and AFE (central region * AFE: β = 0.031, p = 0.038; eastern region * AFE: β = 0.048, p = 0.003). In CLPM and RI-CLPM, the positive effect of healthy aging on AFE is a type of Between-Person effects (β ranges from 0.147 to 0.159, p < 0.001), while the positive effect of AFE on healthy aging is Within-Person effects (β ranges from 0.021 to 0.024, p = 0.004).

Conclusion

Firstly, individuals with high levels of healthy aging are more inclined to actively participate in the development of appropriate AFE compared to those with low levels of healthy aging. Furthermore, by encouraging and guiding individuals to engage in activities that contribute to building appropriate AFE, can elevate their AFE levels beyond the previous average level, thereby improving their future healthy aging levels. Lastly, addressing vulnerable groups by reducing disparities and meeting their health needs effectively is crucial for fostering healthy aging in these populations.
The association between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and pregnancy, delivery and neonatal outcomes—an evaluation of a population database
Authors: Amikam Uri , Badeghiesh Ahmad , Baghlaf Haitham , Brown Richard , Dahan Michael H.
Published: May 2024

Background

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the more common neuropsychiatric disorders in women of reproductive age. Our objective was to compare perinatal outcomes between women with an ADHD diagnosis and those without.

Methods

A retrospective population-based cohort study utilizing the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project, Nationwide Inpatient Sample (HCUP-NIS) United States database. The study included all women who either delivered or experienced maternal death from 2004 to 2014. Perinatal outcomes were compared between women with an ICD-9 diagnosis of ADHD and those without.

Results

Overall, 9,096,788 women met the inclusion criteria. Amongst them, 10,031 women had a diagnosis of ADHD. Women with ADHD, compared to those without, were more likely to be younger than 25 years of age; white; to smoke tobacco during pregnancy; to use illicit drugs; and to suffer from chronic hypertension, thyroid disorders, and obesity (p < 0.001 for all). Women in the ADHD group, compared to those without, had a higher rate of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) (aOR 1.36, 95% CI 1.28–1.45, p < 0.001), cesarean delivery (aOR 1.19, 95% CI 1.13–1.25, p < 0.001), chorioamnionitis (aOR 1.34, 95% CI 1.17–1.52, p < 0.001), and maternal infection (aOR 1.33, 95% CI 1.19–1.5, p < 0.001). Regarding neonatal outcomes, patients with ADHD, compared to those without, had a higher rate of small-for-gestational-age neonate (SGA) (aOR 1.3, 95% CI 1.17–1.43, p < 0.001), and congenital anomalies (aOR 2.77, 95% CI 2.36–3.26, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Women with a diagnosis of ADHD had a higher incidence of a myriad of maternal and neonatal complications, including cesarean delivery, HDP, and SGA neonates.
A systematic review and meta-analysis on mortality rate following total pelvic exenteration in cancer patients
Authors: Esmailzadeh Arezoo , Fakhari Mohammad Sadegh , Saedi Nafise , Shokouhi Nasim , Almasi-Hashiani Amir
Published: May 2024

Background

Total pelvic exenteration (TPE), an en bloc resection is an ultraradical operation for malignancies, and refers to the removal of organs inside the pelvis, including female reproductive organs, lower urological organs and involved parts of the digestive system. The aim of this meta-analysis is to estimate the intra-operative mortality, in-hospital mortality, 30- and 90-day mortality rate and overall mortality rate (MR) following TPE in colorectal, gynecological, urological, and miscellaneous cancers.

Methods

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis in which three international databases including Medline through PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science on November 2023 were searched. To screen and select relevant studies, retrieved articles were entered into Endnote software. The required information was extracted from the full text of the retrieved articles by the authors. Effect measures in this study was the intra-operative, in-hospital, and 90-day and overall MR following TPE. All analyzes are performed using Stata software version 16 (Stata Corp, College Station, TX).

Results

In this systematic review, 1751 primary studies retrieved, of which 98 articles (5343 cases) entered into this systematic review. The overall mortality rate was 30.57% in colorectal cancers, 25.5% in gynecological cancers and 12.42% in Miscellaneous. The highest rate of mortality is related to the overall mortality rate of colorectal cancers. The MR in open surgeries was higher than in minimally invasive surgeries, and also in primary advanced cancers, it was higher than in recurrent cancers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it can be said that performing TPE in a specialized surgical center with careful patient eligibility evaluation is a viable option for advanced malignancies of the pelvic organs.
Comparison of macular changes and visual outcomes between femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and conventional phacoemulsification surgery for high myopic cataract patients
Authors: Liang Xuemei , Luo Shinan , Deng Kaiyu , Li Li
Published: May 2024

Background

To evaluate differences in log MAR best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement and postoperative central foveal thickness (CFT) and choroidal thickness (CT) changes between conventional phacoemulsification surgery (CPS) and femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) for high-myopia cataracts.

Methods

This was a retrospective and observational study. One hundred and two eyes of 102 patients with high-myopia cataracts were examined. CPS was performed in 54 eyes, and FLACS was performed in 48 eyes. All eyes underwent logMAR BCVA, CFT and CT of three different sectors preoperatively and one week and six months postoperatively.

Results

The logMAR BCVA improved significantly after surgery in both groups (both P < 0.001), but no difference was observed in BCVA improvement between the groups (P = 0.554). Moreover, no significant differences were reflected in the changes in CFT, nasal 1 mm CT or temporal 1 mm CT between the two groups, and only subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) in the CPS group decreased significantly compared with that in the FLACS group at any postoperative time (P = 0.003 and 0.026). AL, preoperative logMAR BCVA, and CT of the three regions exhibited a notable correlation with postoperative BCVA (all P < 0.05) according to univariate logistic regression analysis. However, only the AL, preoperative logMAR BCVA and SFCT remained significant in the multivariate model. Postoperative logMAR BCVA revealed a positive correlation with AL and preoperative logMAR BCVA but a negative correlation with SFCT.

Conclusions

FLACS was not superior to CPS in improving BCVA but had less impact on SFCT in the treatment of high-myopia cataracts. Eyes with a longer AL, worse preoperative logMAR BCVA and thinner SFCT had a high risk of worse postoperative BCVA.
Association between pediatric postoperative delirium and regional cerebral oxygen saturation: a prospective observational study
Authors: Liu Kexian , Lin Nan , Jin Ting , Xiang Yujun , Li Jiahuan , Lai Dengming , Xu Hongzhen
Published: May 2024

Background

Postoperative delirium (POD) represents a prevalent and noteworthy complication in the context of pediatric surgical interventions. In recent times, a hypothesis has emerged positing that cerebral ischemia and regional cerebral oxygen desaturation might serve as potential catalysts in the pathogenesis of POD. The primary aim of this study was to methodically examine the potential relationship between POD and regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) and to assess the predictive and evaluative utility of rSO2 in the context of POD.

Methods

This prospective observational study was conducted at the Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China, spanning the period from November 2020 to March 2021. The research cohort comprised children undergoing surgical procedures within this clinical setting. To measure rSO2 dynamics, cerebral near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was used to monitor rSO2 levels both before and after surgery. In addition, POD was assessed in the paediatric patients according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria. The analysis of the association between the rSO2 index and the incidence of POD was carried out through the application of either the independent samples t-test or the nonparametric rank-sum test. To ascertain the threshold value of the adjusted rSO2 index for predictive and evaluative purposes regarding POD in the pediatric population, the Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve was employed.

Results

A total of 211 cases were included in this study, of which 61 (28.9%) developed POD. Participants suffering delirium had lower preoperative rSO2mean, lower preoperative rSO2min, and lower postoperative rSO2min, higher ∆rSO2mean, higher amount of ∆rSO2mean, lower ∆rSO2min (P < 0.05). Preoperative rSO2mean (AUC = 0.716, 95%CI 0.642–0.790), ∆rSO2mean (AUC = 0.694, 95%CI 0.614–0.774), amount of ∆rSO2mean (AUC = 0.649, 95%CI 0.564–0.734), preoperative rSO2min (AUC = 0.702, 96%CI 0.628–0.777), postoperative rSO2min (AUC = 0.717, 95%CI 0.647–0.787), and ∆rSO2min (AUC = 0.714, 95%CI 0.638–0.790) performed well in sensitivity and specificity, and the best threshold were 62.05%, 1.27%, 2.41%, 55.68%, 57.36%, 1.29%.

Conclusions

There is a close relationship between pediatric POD and rSO2. rSO2 could be used as an effective predictor of pediatric POD. It might be helpful to measure rSO2 with NIRS for early recognizing POD and making it possible for early intervention.
The safety and efficacy of escitalopram and sertraline in post-stroke depression: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yan Ning , Hu Shaohua
Published: May 2024

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of escitalopram and sertraline in post-stroke depression (PSD) patients, to provide more reliable therapeutics for cardiovascular and psychiatric clinical practice.

Methods

We recruited 60 patients (aged 40–89 years old) with an ICD-10 diagnosis of PSD, who were then randomly assigned to two groups and treated with flexible doses of escitalopram (10 to 20 mg/day, n = 30) or sertraline (50 to 200 mg/day, n = 30) for consecutive 8 weeks, respectively. The 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-24), the 14-item Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA-14), the Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale (TESS), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MOCA), and the Activity of Daily Living scale (ADL) were used to assess patients before, during, and after treatment for depression, anxiety, adverse effects, cognitive function, and daily living activities. Repeated measures ANOVA, the Mann–Whitney U test, the chi-square test (χ2), or Fisher’s exact test was employed to assess baseline demographics, response rate, adverse effects rate, and changes in other clinical variables.

Results

Significant reduction in HAMD-24 and HAMA-14 scores was evaluated at baseline, as well as 1, 3, 4, 6, and 8 weeks of drug intervention (p < 0.01). There was a significant group difference in post-treatment HAMD-24 scores (p < 0.05), but no difference was observed in HAMA-14 scores (p > 0.05). Further analysis showed a significant variance in the HAMD-24 scores between the two groups at the end of the first week (p < 0.01). The incidence of adverse effects in both patient groups was mild, but there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.05). The improvement in cognitive function and the recovery of daily living abilities were comparable between both groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Escitalopram and sertraline showed comparable efficacy for anxiety symptoms, cognitive function, and daily living abilities in PSD patients. In addition, escitalopram was more appropriate for alleviating depressive symptoms. To validate the conclusion, trials with a larger sample size are in demand in the future. The registration number is ChiCTR1800017373.
Financial inclusion and improved water usage among households in Ghana
Authors: Immurana Mustapha , Kisseih Kwame Godsway , Ziblilla Yakubu Mbanba , Kizhakkekara Toby Joseph Mathew , Boachie Micheal Kofi , Halidu Babamu Osman , Mohammed Jamal , Kaleem Ibrahim , Mohammed Ayisha , Doegah Phidelia Theresa
Published: May 2024

Background

In Ghana, about 76% of households are at risk of drinking water polluted with faecal matter, hence, poor sanitation and unsafe water are responsible for 80% of all diseases in the country. Given this, some studies have been carried out concerning the factors that determine access and use of improved water among households in Ghana. However, although financial inclusion can make it easy for households to afford and hence, use improved water, it has received very little attention. This study, thus, examines the effect of financial inclusion on the use of improved water among households in Ghana.

Methods

The Ghana Living Standards Survey round 7 (GLSS7) is used as the data source while the binary logit regression is employed as the main empirical estimation technique.

Results

The results show that households with financial inclusion (employing an indicator which has not been disaggregated into formal and informal financial inclusion) have a higher likelihood of using improved water sources relative to those without financial inclusion. The results are robust using formal financial inclusion as well as a combined index of financial inclusion.

Conclusion

Enhancing financial inclusion, especially formal financial inclusion can be utilised as a major policy instrument towards increasing access and use of improved water sources among households in Ghana.