bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aortic Stress Activates an Adaptive Program in Thoracic Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells That Maintains Aortic Strength and Protects Against Aneurysm and Dissection in Mice
Authors: Zhang Chen , Li Yanming , Chakraborty Abhijit , Li Yang , Rebello Kimberly R. , Ren Pingping , Luo Wei , Zhang Lin , Lu Hong S. , Cassis Lisa A. , Coselli Joseph S. , Daugherty Alan , LeMaire Scott A. , Shen Ying H.
Published: December 2022

Background:

When aortic cells are under stress, such as increased hemodynamic pressure, they adapt to the environment by modifying their functions, allowing the aorta to maintain its strength. To understand the regulation of this adaptive response, we examined transcriptomic and epigenomic programs in aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs) during the adaptive response to AngII (angiotensin II) infusion and determined its importance in protecting against aortic aneurysm and dissection (AAD).

Methods:

We performed single-cell RNA sequencing and single-cell sequencing assay for transposase-accessible chromatin (scATAC-seq) analyses in a mouse model of sporadic AAD induced by AngII infusion. We also examined the direct effects of YAP (yes-associated protein) on the SMC adaptive response in vitro. The role of YAP in AAD development was further evaluated in AngII-infused mice with SMC-specific
Yap
deletion.

Results:

In wild-type mice, AngII infusion increased medial thickness in the thoracic aorta. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed an adaptive response in thoracic SMCs characterized by upregulated genes with roles in wound healing, elastin and collagen production, proliferation, migration, cytoskeleton organization, cell-matrix focal adhesion, and PI3K-PKB/Akt (phosphoinositide-3-kinase–protein kinase B/Akt) and TGF-β (transforming growth factor beta) signaling. ScATAC-seq analysis showed increased chromatin accessibility at regulatory regions of adaptive genes and revealed the mechanical sensor YAP/transcriptional enhanced associate domains as a top candidate transcription complex driving the expression of these genes (eg,
Lox, Col5a2, Tgfb2
). In cultured human aortic SMCs, cyclic stretch activated YAP, which directly bound to adaptive gene regulatory regions (eg,
Lox
) and increased their transcript abundance. SMC-specific
Yap
deletion in mice compromised this adaptive response in SMCs, leading to an increased AAD incidence.

Conclusions:

Aortic stress triggers the systemic epigenetic induction of an adaptive response (eg, wound healing, proliferation, matrix organization) in thoracic aortic SMCs that depends on functional biomechanical signal transduction (eg, YAP signaling). Our study highlights the importance of the adaptive response in maintaining aortic homeostasis and preventing AAD in mice.
Lectotypification of the name Fissidens arunii (Fissidentaceae: Bryophyta)
Authors: MAJUMDAR SHUVADEEP , BRUGGEMAN-NANNENGA M. A.
Published: December 2022

N/A
Pollen morphology of selected taxa of Valeriana (Caprifoliaceae): taxonomic and evolutionary implications
Authors: TSYMBALYUK ZOYA M. , IVANOVA DANIELLA , BELL CHARLES D. , NITSENKO LYUDMILA M.
Published: December 2022

Pollen morphology of 34 herbarium specimens belonging to 17 taxa of the genus Valeriana was studied using light and scanning electron microscopy. The aim of this research was to evaluate the taxonomical value of palynomorphological data for species-specific identification. Pollen grains are monads, radially symmetrical, isopolar, tricolpate, oblate to prolate (P/E = 0.69–1.59); medium- or large-sized (P = 26.60–66.50 µm; E = 23.94–57.19 µm). Colpi are long, medium-length or short, with acute, obtuse or rounded ends. Four types and eight subtypes of exine sculpture were recognised: type I—echinate-verrucate (5 spp.), type II—echinate-nanoechinate-verrucate (10), type III—echinate-microechinate-nanoechinate-verrucate (1), type IV—echinate-microechinate-nanoechinate (1). Additional characters of taxa of Valeriana diagnostic at species level for the purposes of taxonomy are: size of pollen and colpi, exine sculpture: presence/absence of verrucae, their form, size and form of echini/microechini/nanoechini, their number, pattern of tectum in areas between echini, exine thickness in mesocolpia and apocolpia. Our palynomorphological data support the results of molecular phylogenetic studies. The close phylogenetic relationships of the species V. montana, V. tripteris, V. supina and V. pyrenaica are also supported by their palynomorphological characters, such as exine sculpture (type I). Cluster analysis mainly supports the definition of pollen types and subtypes (based on qualitative data), since species are grouped as five separate branches. The pollen grains of five taxa were analysed for the first time in the current study.
Acrobolbus mashpianus (Acrobolbaceae, Marchantiophyta) sp. nov. from the Northern Andes of Ecuador—Notes on the Bryophytes of Ecuador VII
Authors: BURGHARDT MICHAEL
Published: December 2022

Acrobolbus mashpianus, a leafy liverwort of the family Acrobolbaceae, is described as new to science from the Chocó Biogeographical Region. It is characterized by strongly asymmetrical, deeply bilobed leaves with ciliate marginal teeth. The new species is illustrated and its relationships within the genus Acrobolbus are discussed. A key to the Ecuadorian species of Acrobolbus is provided.
The first record of the genus Eskemukerjea (Polygonaceae) from China
Authors: GOU YU-TING , ZHU ZHEN-HUA , ZHOU XIN-XIN , CHEN YONG-JUN , LI BO
Published: December 2022

Eskemukerjea is a monotypic genus containing the endemic nepali E. megacarpum. Based on examination of herbarium specimens (including types), consultation of protologues and other relevant literature, as well as investigation of the newly discovered populations in Chinese Tibet, we here record E. megacarpum for the first time out of Nepal. An updated morphological description, original field photographs, and a distribution map are provided.
Relating Genesis 16 to sexual abuse in the church: Hagar as a biblical parallel
Authors: Lucas Philippa
Published: December 2022

Sexual abuse within the church is not a new phenomenon, with revelations about abuse within the catholic church having long been on the public radar. However, in the wake of the #Metoo movement, recent years have seen an increase in awareness of cases of sexual abuse within Christian circles. This essay will argue for the relevance as Hagar, long an important symbolic figure for the oppressed, as a biblical symbolic parallel for victims/survivors of abuse within the church. In viewing sexual abuse through this lens, I will also be considering relevant insights and applications for the church.
KDP-PUK Strategic Agreement and Its Consequences for the Governing System in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
Authors: Arif Beston Husen
Published: December 2022

After years of fighting, disagreements and geographical division, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) signed a Strategic Agreement in 2006, leading to the unification of their different administrations. While the KDP-PUK Strategic Agreement prevented the two ruling parties from engaging in another violent conflict, and established a mechanism for unifying their two different administrations, it also appears to have been ineffective in facilitating the institutionalisation process and institutional stability. This study examines how the KDP-PUK Strategic Agreement shaped the governing system in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) for a decade and identifies the reasons for the poor performance of political institutions. It demonstrates that the governing structure reflected partisan interests following the Strategic Agreement, making it difficult to establish stable and functional political institutions.
Understanding How Music Influences Shopping on Weekdays and Weekends
Authors: Ahlbom Carl-Philip , Roggeveen Anne L. , Grewal Dhruv , Nordfält Jens
Published: December 2022

This research investigates how shopping on a weekday or a weekend moderates the impact of music on supermarket sales. Contrary to the intuitive beliefs of interviewed store managers, a meta-analysis, two field studies, and a controlled experimental study indicate that playing pleasant music (vs. no music) in supermarkets on weekdays enhances sales, an effect not found on weekends. Theorizing and interviews with shoppers suggest a potential reason for this week-part difference: Shoppers are more mentally depleted on weekdays (vs. weekends). A final study demonstrates and tests mental depletion as the driving factor for how shoppers are affected by music during different week parts. When consumers are depleted (e.g., on weekdays) music increases affect, which mediates the impact of music on sales. The results of the studies further indicate that week part plays a significant role in determining the impact of in-store music on sales. This article concludes with a discussion of the substantive and theoretical importance of incorporating the impact of week parts to predict in-store marketing effectiveness.
Black on Both Sides: Toward an Understanding of the Athletic and Career Aspirations of Black Males who Play Sports
Authors: Adeyemo Adeoye O.
Published: December 2022

This article investigates the experiences of Black males who play sports and aspire to achieve athletic and non-athletic careers. In-depth interviews and observations highlight the experiences, beliefs, and aspirations of a group of Black males who play sports in their Chicago neighborhoods and schools. Critical Race Theory, Yosso's communities of cultural wealth, and the athletic/academic paradox frame this study. The research study examines how the experiences of Black male students who play high school football and basketball challenge and conform to the expectations of others in consideration of how they think about academic, educational, and sociocultural goals, interests, and beliefs in U.S. schools and communities. The article concludes with implications for education, policy, and educational outcomes, specifically for Black male students who play sports.
Revenue generation in libraries: A systematized review
Authors: Ghalavand Hossein , Panahi Sirous , Khani Sedigheh , Danaei Mehrabad Shabnam
Published: December 2022

Many libraries are currently facing challenges in obtaining sufficient financial support to continue and develop their services. Libraries around the world employed new strategies for overcoming this issue by adopting various revenue generation and marketing activities. This study is a systematized review conducted on revenue generation methods used in different types of libraries. To identify the relevant studies, two authors independently searched scholarly databases including Medline, Web of Science, Emerald, Science Direct, ERIC, ProQuest, Scopus, LISTA, PubMed Central, and Google Scholar search engine for published articles from 1995 to 2020. Articles were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. In total, 3461 articles were retrieved from which 56 were included for final analysis. This study identified 10 main categories with 75 sub-categories as different types of revenue generation methods suggested or used by various libraries around the world. Academic and public libraries were mostly reported in the reviewed articles as using different types of revenue generation. The most commonly used methods in libraries for revenue generation were public or governmental financial aid and receiving fees for providing services. The use of social networks, web space, and utilizing e-commerce principles were identified as the newest revenue-generating method, which were being implemented and developed in some public and academic libraries. Budget plays an important role in keeping library resources and services active and up to date. Therefore, discovering new opportunities for marketing and fundraising, as well as showing the value and return on investment of libraries is very important. Adopting and using methods introduced in this paper for revenue generation can help libraries to overcome some of their financial challenges well into the future.
Pandemic and Attitudes towards Immigrants: Evidence from South Korea during the COVID-19 Crises
Authors: Kim Seong Hee
Published: December 2022

This article investigates the changes in South Koreans’ acceptance towards multiculturalism and acceptance towards North Korean defectors during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea and potential factors affecting the changes. Individual-level survey data conducted in 2018–2020 were used to compare pre- and post-COVID-19 period. The results demonstrate that the regions with severe local outbreaks during the early COVID-19 pandemic experienced increased hostile attitudes towards multiculturalism and increased discriminatory preference. On the other hand, the pandemic did not affect attitudes towards North Korean defectors. The change may be associated with fear of infection as interaction effects between vulnerability and affected regions after the pandemic were statistically significant. This finding suggests that efforts to disassociate infectious diseases and foreign migrants can mitigate increased hostility towards multiculturalism and foreigners.
Intergenerational, Community-Based Learning and Exercise Science Student Perceptions of Classroom Community
Authors: Crawley Amy A. , Crawley William
Published: December 2022

Background: Community-based learning is a high-impact, experiential teaching practice where elements of social interaction and authentic participation transform cognitive understanding into meaningful knowing. In the allied health field, the incorporation of community-based learning provides unique access to populations that are not inherently available in a university classroom. Purpose: Researchers used a mixed methods approach to examine the influence of an intergenerational, community-based learning environment versus a traditional learning environment on exercise science students’ perceptions of overall classroom community, connectedness, and learning. Methodology/Approach: Quantitatively, students ( n = 122) completed Rovai's CCS which was then analyzed using a t-test. Qualitatively, students completed written reflective assignments designed to gather data regarding their perceptions of working with an older adult population. Findings/Conclusions: Overall students perceived significantly greater levels of classroom community, connectedness, and learning in the intergenerational, community-based learning environment and evidenced highly positive growth in their awareness and understanding of older adults. Implications: Inclusion of an intergenerational, community-based learning environment in allied health-related degree programs can enhance student's confidence in knowledge application and their ability to connect with the older population.
Efficacy of same-day versus next-day administration of pegfilgrastim for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced febrile neutropenia in breast cancer patients receiving dose-dense doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide: A retrospective multi-site analysis
Authors: Hobbs Jacob , Lowe Jan , Ferdinand Abigale , Shook Anna , Beck Bradley , Blais Danielle , Borchardt Cole , Xu Bing
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Administering pegfilgrastim on the same day as chemotherapy can improve patient satisfaction through convenience and may increase the utilization of cost-effective biosimilars compared to next-day administration, but the effect on clinical outcomes with commonly used breast cancer regimens is unclear.

Methods

This multi-site, retrospective cohort study included breast cancer patients age 18 years or older who received dose-dense doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (ddAC) and pegfilgrastim between 1 June 2016 and 31 May 2020. Pegfilgrastim was given on the same day as chemotherapy at one site and the day after chemotherapy at the other two sites. The primary endpoint compared the incidence of febrile neutropenia associated with pegfilgrastim administration timing.

Results

A total of 360 patients were reviewed (146 same-day administration and 214 next-day administration). In the same-day group 36 patients (24.6%) developed FN compared to 25 patients (11.7%) in the next-day group ( p = 0.002). Same-day administration also significantly increased the incidences of additional acute care visits (11.6% vs 2.8%, p = 0.0016), grade ≥ 3 neutropenia (38.4% vs 13.6%, p < 0.0001), chemotherapy dose reductions (21.2% vs 6.1%, p < 0.0001), and antibiotic use (26.7% vs 12.6%, p = 0.001). Same-day administration did not significantly increase the rate of hospitalization (15% vs 11.2%, p = 0.36) and delay of next chemotherapy cycle by ≥1 day (8.2% vs 6.1%, p = 0.57) due to neutropenic complications.

Conclusions

Administering pegfilgrastim on the same day as ddAC led to a significant increase in neutropenic complications. This study confirms the need to administer pegfilgrastim the day after chemotherapy in breast cancer patients receiving ddAC.
Management of simultaneous bilateral immune-mediated peripheral ulcerative keratitis
Authors: Kamra Dhruv , Chappadi Kiranmayi , Dudam Rajkiran , Murthy Somasheila I
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) is a sight threatening disease, often immune mediated and can rapidly progress to corneal perforation. Here we report the successful management of simultaneous bilateral peripheral ulcerative keratitis presenting with corneal perforation with surgical intervention and systemic immunosuppression.

Case description

A 41-year-old female presented with similarly located super-nasal peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) in both eyes and focal area of adjoining scleritis in the left eye. Serological investigations for systemic immune-mediated conditions showed positive rheumatoid factor test. She underwent cyanoacrylate glue application in both eyes, and was started on topical and oral corticosteroids and oral immunomodulators, and the right eye stabilized. The left eye required a second surgical intervention with a corneal patch graft following which the condition stabilized.

Conclusion and importance

This case highlights the importance of investigating for an underlying systemic etiology in PUK and the role of systemic immunosuppression prior to and after surgical intervention in order to arrest the disease and prevent recurrences.
Collaborative construction of the closet (in and out): The affordance of interactivity and gay and lesbian employees’ identity work online
Authors: Soini Aleksi , Eräranta Kirsi
Published: December 2022

For LGBQ employees, the disclosure and management of sexual identity in the workplace are likely to cause additional identity work. In this paper, we explore how such identity work is undertaken collectively by gays and lesbians on internet forums. Drawing on the literature on discursive identity work and social media affordances, we conduct a netnographic study of two internet forums, and analyse the ways in which these forums enable gay and lesbian employees’ identity work and guide their identity management processes. Overall, our study advances knowledge on sexual identity disclosure and management in three main ways. First, by shifting the focus from the identity disclosure accounts of individual gay and lesbian employees to online peer discussions around the topic, it sheds light on the broader context of identity management beyond the workplace. Second, our findings elucidate particular types of collaborative identity work – consulting, legitimating and questioning identity work – enabled by the affordance of interactivity of internet forums that inform and guide gays and lesbians’ identity management practices in organisations. Third, we identify and elaborate on specific discursive identity threats – the ‘falsehood’, ‘incoherence’, ‘exaggeration’ and ‘outdatedness’ of identity – which gay and lesbian employees are likely to encounter when reflecting on and performing specific identity management strategies, such as concealing or revealing their sexual orientation at work.
Connecting with my inner child through vocal psychotherapy
Authors: Lauw Eta L
Published: December 2022

The following autoethnographic article discusses a personal experience of therapeutic regression, through free associative singing embedded within vocal psychotherapy training. This regressive experience spurred moments of personal growth through use of unconscious and subconscious processes. A key component within vocal psychotherapy training is learning through self-experience: this article also discusses the impact of the experiential learning and its impact on my clinical practice.
The ethics and urgency of identifying domestic minor sex trafficking victims in clinical settings
Authors: Zhou Avery , Kennedy Margaret Alexis , Bejinariu Alexa , Hannon Leah , Cimino Andrea N
Published: December 2022

A critical opportunity for identifying children experiencing domestic minor sex trafficking exists in healthcare settings. This quantitative study documented the disconnect between youth seeking help and interventions offered by healthcare providers. Ninety-one sex youth exploited through sex trafficking answered questions detailing their experiences of seeking medical treatment for injuries associated with selling or trading sex. Healthcare providers who were aware that injuries were sustained due to sex trafficking did not always alert legal or mandated reporting authorities. This analysis identified violations of the four pillars of ethical healthcare. This investigation revealed lost opportunities to intervene on behalf of youth suffering trauma and abuse from sex trafficking highlighting the necessity for a formal protocol in healthcare settings to effectively intervene.
Institutional Profiling for Educational Development: Identifying Which Conditions for Student Success to Address in a Given Educational Setting—A Case Study
Authors: Engel Hugues
Published: December 2022

Thanks to a wealth of research on college student retention, we have today a good understanding of the factors that facilitate student success. However, actions taken to promote student success are far from always effective. The teaching–learning environments differ between institutions and provide, to a greater or lesser extent, the conditions that contribute to student success. The purpose of this case study is to test a method, based on a questionnaire and the use of effect sizes, to establish a “profile” of a particular university department to identify to what extent five conditions for student success (institutional commitment, expectations, support, feedback, and student involvement) contributed to student success in courses given at this department. The practical implications of the profiling method used in the study are discussed.
“If It's not on Strava it Didn’t Happen”: Perceived Psychosocial Implications of Strava use in Collegiate Club Runners
Authors: Russell Hayley C. , Potts Charlie , Nelson Emma
Published: December 2022

The fitness app Strava incorporates the utility of a fitness tracker with the connection of social media. Since 2009, Strava has attracted over 100 million users, yet little research has assessed the implications of its use. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceived psychosocial implications of Strava use among collegiate club runners. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 runners from collegiate running clubs across the United States who were Strava users. Results indicated that runners perceived the psychosocial implications of Strava use to fall into three main themes: 1) self-presentation, 2) social pressure, and 3) motivation. The findings of this study support the utility of Strava to connect collegiate club runners and support their motivation to run while also suggesting some potential concerns related to social pressure and self-presentation that could influence mental or physical health.
Mechanical thrombectomy in stroke patients of advanced age with score-based prediction of outcome
Authors: Laugesen Nicolaj Grønbæk , Brandt Andreas Hjelm , Stavngaard Trine , Højgaard Joan , Hansen Klaus , Truelsen Thomas
Published: December 2022

Background

Stroke patients ≥80 years constituted only 15% in randomised trials on mechanical thrombectomy (MT), but is a considerable higher proportion in clinical practice. Association of clinical variables collected before MT with functional outcome has not been independently described in these patients, while being important in the decision of patient eligibility for MT.

Methods

We included patients consecutively at a single centre (2017–2021) categorised as octogenarians (age: 80–89 years) or nonagenarians (age: 90–99 years). Functional outcome at 90 days was defined as fair (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0–3) or poor (mRS 4–6). Clinical variables collected before MT were analysed for association with shift of mRS in a poor direction. Significant predictors were used to produce a risk score of fair outcome. Significance was set at the p < 0.05 level.

Results

Nonagenarians (n = 43, 15.5%) compared to octogenarians (n = 235, 84.5%) less likely achieved fair outcome (20.9% vs. 46.0%, p < 0.01) with higher mortality (65.1% vs. 31.9%, p < 0.01). Significant predictors of outcome were: age, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.91 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.86–0.97); pre-stroke mRS, aOR = 0.57 (95% CI: 0.44–0.73); National Institute of Health Stroke Scale at admission, aOR = 0.91 (95% CI: 0.87–0.95); Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography, aOR = 1.23 (95% CI: 1.05–1.45). After bootstrap validation, the area under the curve of the risk score was 0.74 and the optimal cut-off for fair outcome was a score of >7 points.

Conclusions

One in two octogenarians achieved fair outcome, however, only one in five nonagenarians had fair outcome. The clinical risk score could be considered as guidance when deciding patient eligibility for MT.
Protest reporting across clientelist media systems
Authors: Harlow Summer , Camaj Lindita , Pjesivac Ivanka
Published: December 2022

Most protest paradigm studies examining news media's portrayals of protesters are based on an assumption that the way the paradigm operates within the U.S. media system is similar around the globe. To overcome these weaknesses, this content analysis (n = 1200) of protest-related news coverage in two Balkan and two Central American countries examines how media clientelism-manifested via ownership, concentration, and state advertising-influences media representations of protesters. Results highlight important regional differences in protest coverage, and confirm the role of government and elites in clientelist environments is more complex than hypothesized. We found that while clientelism contributes to the protest paradigm, delegitimizing coverage is not automatic, and varies by frame and media ownership, as political and economic interests differentially influence protest coverage depending not just on the outlets’ ties to the state, but also the social contexts surrounding the protests themselves.
Endovascular thrombectomy for acute ischaemic stroke improves and maintains function in the very elderly: A multicentre propensity score matched analysis
Authors: Dunphy Harriette , Garcia-Esperon Carlos , Beom Hong Jae , Manoczki Csilla , Wilson Duncan , Lim Alvin Chew Beng , Beharry James , Bivard Andrew , Hasnain Md Golam , Krauss Martin , Collecutt Wayne , Miteff Ferdi , Spratt Neil , Parsons Mark W , Alan Barber Peter , Ranta Annemarei , Fink John N , Wu Teddy Y
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

The very elderly (⩾80 years) are under-represented in randomised endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) clinical trials for acute ischaemic stroke. Rates of independent outcome in this group are generally lower than the less-old patients but the comparisons may be biased by an imbalance of non-age related baseline characteristics, treatment related metrics and medical risk factors.

Patients and methods:

We compared outcomes between very elderly (⩾80) and the less-old (<80 years) using retrospective data from consecutive patients receiving EVT from four comprehensive stroke centres in New Zealand and Australia. We used propensity score matching or multivariable logistic regression to account for confounders.

Results:

We included 600 patients (300 in each age cohort) after propensity score matching from an initial group of 1270 patients. The median baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was 16 (11–21), with 455 (75.8%) having symptom free pre-stroke independent function, and 268 (44.7%) receiving intravenous thrombolysis. Good functional outcome (90-day modified Rankin Scale 0–2) was achieved in 282 (46.8%), with very elderly patients having less proportion of good outcome compared to the less-old (118 (39.3%) vs 163 (54.3%), p < 0.01). There was no difference between the very elderly and the less-old in the proportion of patients who returned to baseline function at 90 days (56 (18.7%) vs 62 (20.7%), p = 0.54). All-cause 90-day mortality was higher in the very elderly (75 (25%) vs 49 (16.3%), p < 0.01), without a difference in symptomatic haemorrhage (very elderly 11 (3.7%) vs 6 (2.0%), p = 0.33). In the multivariable logistic regression models, the very elderly were significantly associated with reduced odds of good 90-day outcome (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.34–0.69, p < 0.01) but not with return to baseline function (OR 0.85, 90% CI 0.54–1.29, p = 0.45) after adjusting for confounders.

Conclusion:

Endovascular thrombectomy can be successfully and safely performed in the very elderly. Despite an increase in all-cause 90-day mortality, selected very elderly patients are as likely as younger patients with similar baseline characteristics to return to baseline function following EVT.
Prognostic role of different findings at echocardiography in acute pulmonary embolism: a critical review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cimini Ludovica Anna , Candeloro Matteo , Pływaczewska Magdalena , Maraziti Giorgio , Di Nisio Marcello , Pruszczyk Piotr , Agnelli Giancarlo , Becattini Cecilia
Published: December 2022

Background

Right ventricle dysfunction (RVD) at echocardiography predicts mortality in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE), but heterogeneous definitions of RVD have been used. We performed a meta-analysis to assess the role of different definitions of RVD and of individual parameters of RVD as predictors of death.

Methods

A systematic search for studies including patients with confirmed PE reporting on right ventricle (RV) assessment at echocardiography and death in the acute phase was performed. The primary study outcome was death in-hospital or at 30 days.

Results

RVD at echocardiography, regardless of its definition, was associated with increased risk of death (risk ratio 1.49, 95% CI 1.24–1.79, I2=64%) and PE-related death (risk ratio 3.77, 95% CI 1.61–8.80, I2=0%) in all-comers with PE, and with death in haemodynamically stable patients (risk ratio 1.52, 95% CI 1.15–2.00, I2=73%). The association with death was confirmed for RVD defined as the presence of at least one criterion or at least two criteria for RV overload. In all-comers with PE, increased RV/left ventricle (LV) ratio (risk ratio 1.61, 95% CI 1.90–2.39) and abnormal tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (risk ratio 2.29 CI 1.45–3.59) but not increased RV diameter were associated with death; in haemodynamically stable patients, neither RV/LV ratio (risk ratio 1.11, 95% CI 0.91–1.35) nor TAPSE (risk ratio 2.29, 95% CI 0.97–5.44) were significantly associated with death.

Conclusion

Echocardiography showing RVD is a useful tool for risk stratification in all-comers with acute PE and in haemodynamically stable patients. The prognostic value of individual parameters of RVD in haemodynamically stable patients remains controversial.
The value of walking: a systematic review on mobility and healthcare costs
Authors: Wohlrab Martin , Klenk Jochen , Delgado-Ortiz Laura , Chambers Michael , Rochester Lynn , Zuchowski Matthias , Schwab Matthias , Becker Clemens , Jaeger Simon U.
Published: December 2022

Background

The ability to walk is an important indicator of general health and mobility deficits have wide-ranging economic implications. We undertook a systematic review to elucidate the impact of walking parameters on health care costs. 

Methods

Publications reporting on associations between health care costs and walking parameters were identified by a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, Embase, and manual reference screening, following the PRISMA reporting guidelines. First, titles and abstracts were screened by two independent reviewers followed by a review of the full articles if they met the inclusion criteria. Costs were converted to US-Dollars with inflation adjustment for 2021. A narrative synthesis was performed. 

Results

Ten studies conducted between 2001 and 2021 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Assessment of walking ability was carried out via patient reported outcomes, performance tests, or using wearable digital devices. Walking more than one hour per day, a faster walking speed and the ability to walk without impairments are associated with significant lower health care costs. A higher number of steps per day is associated with significant lower costs in two simulation studies, while in the study using a digital device, taking more than 10,000 steps per day is not significantly associated with lower direct costs. The heterogeneity of mobility assessments and of economic analyses both precluded a quantitative synthesis.

Conclusion

Cross-sectional and observational studies from this systematic review suggest a significant association of better walking performance with lower health care costs. Future health economic research and health technology assessments should use quantifiable mobility outcomes when evaluating new drugs or non-pharmacological interventions.
Association mapping for protein, total soluble sugars, starch, amylose and chlorophyll content in rice
Authors: Nayak D. K. , Sahoo S. , Barik S. R. , Sanghamitra P. , Sangeeta S. , Pandit E. , Reshmi Raj K. R. , Basak N. , Pradhan S. K.
Published: December 2022

Background

Protein, starch, amylose and total soluble sugars are basic metabolites of seed that influence the eating, cooking and nutritional qualities of rice. Chlorophyll is responsible for the absorption and utilization of the light energy influencing photosynthetic efficiency in rice plant. Mapping of these traits are very important for detection of more number of robust markers for improvement of these traits through molecular breeding approaches.

Results

A representative panel population was developed by including 120 germplasm lines from the initial shortlisted 274 lines for mapping of the six biochemical traits using 136 microsatellite markers through association mapping. A wide genetic variation was detected for the traits, total protein, starch, amylose, total soluble sugars, chlorophyll a, and chlorophyll b content in the population. Specific allele frequency, gene diversity, informative markers and other diversity parameters obtained from the population indicated the effectiveness of utilization of the population and markers for mapping of these traits. The fixation indices values estimated from the population indicated the existence of linkage disequilibrium for the six traits. The population genetic structure at K = 3 showed correspondence with majority of the members in each group for the six traits. The reported QTL, qProt1, qPC6.2, and qPC8.2 for protein content; qTSS8.1 for total soluble sugar; qAC1.2 for amylose content; qCH2 and qSLCHH for chlorophyll a (Chl. a) while qChl5D for chlorophyll b (Chl. b) were validated in this population. The QTL controlling total protein content qPC1.2; qTSS7.1, qTSS8.2 and qTSS12.1 for total soluble sugars; qSC2.1, qSC2.2, qSC6.1 and qSC11.1 for starch content; qAC11.1, qAC11.2 and qAC11.3 for amylose content; qChla8.1 for Chl. a content and qChlb7.1 and qChlb8.1 for Chl. b identified by both Generalized Linear Model and Mixed Linear Model were detected as novel QTL. The chromosomal regions on chromosome 8 at 234 cM for grain protein content and total soluble sugars and at 363 cM for Chl. a and Chl. b along with the position at 48 cM on chromosome 11 for starch and amylose content are genetic hot spots for these traits.

Conclusion

The validated, co-localized and the novel QTL detected in this study will be useful for improvement of protein, starch, amylose, total soluble sugars and chlorophyll content in rice.
The effect of Benson relaxation technique on the severity of symptoms and quality of life in children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Ebrahimloee Saba , Masoumpoor Anahita , Nasiri Malihe , Babaie Mohadese , Farahani Amirparsa Vanaki , Yousefiasl Sepideh , Farahani Azam Shirinabadi
Published: December 2022

Aim

This study aimed to determine the effect of the Benson relaxation technique on the severity of symptoms and quality of life in children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Design

This quasi-experimental study was carried out on children with irritable bowel syndrome in Iran.

Method

Sixty children were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. The Benson relaxation technique was implemented for three weeks for experimental group, while the control group only received the typical medical therapy with no special intervention. The questionnaire of Irritable Bowel Syndrome-quality of life-34 (IBS-QOL-34), and Bowel Symptoms Severity and Frequency Scale (BSS-FS) were used for data gathering before and three weeks after the intervention. Data were analyzed using statistics, appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests.

Results

According to the results, the experimental group had lower mean scores of qualities of life before the intervention (p < 0.05). The mean score of symptom severity in children with IBS was 13.88 in the experimental group, which changed to 9.83 in the post-test, indicating a significant difference (p < 0.000). The pre-test and post-test mean scores for quality of life in this group were 118.94 and 102.77, respectively, indicating a significant difference (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The Benson relaxation technique can be a non-pharmacological solution to reduce the severity of symptoms and improve the quality of life of children with IBS.

Implication to practice

This technique is supposed to contribute as a further intervention in clinical contexts.
The epidemiological trends of biliary tract cancers in the United States of America
Authors: Jiang Yong , Jiang Liyong , Li Feiyu , Li Qingbin , Yuan Shuai , Huang Songhan , Fu Yingda , Yan Xiangyu , Chen Ji , Li Hongxin , Li Shenhao , liu Jun
Published: December 2022

Background

Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are a series of heterogeneous malignancies that are broadly grouped based on the anatomical site where they arise into subtypes including intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ECC), gallbladder cancer (GBC), and ampulla of Vater cancer (AVC).

Methods and Results

The present study provides an overview of the epidemiology of the various BTCs based on data from the National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 2000 to 2018. Distinct differences in both incidence and mortality rates were observed for these BTCs as a function of age, sex, ethnicity, and calendar year. In 2018, BTCs emerged as the fifth most prevalent form of alimentary tract cancer in the USA. While the incidence and mortality of ICC appear to be increasing, the incidence rates of GBC, ECC, and AVC have remained stable, as have the corresponding mortality rates. The most common and deadliest BTCs in 2018 were ICC and GBC among males and females, respectively. The ethnic groups exhibiting the highest incidence rates of these different BTCs were American Indians and Alaska Natives for GBC, and Asian and Pacific Islanders for ICC, ECC, and AVC. The incidence of all of these forms of BTC rose with age. There were some variations in BTCs in terms of staging, locoregional surgical treatments, adjuvant therapies, and prognostic outcomes from 2000 to 2018.

Conclusions

The epidemiological characteristics, staging, locoregional surgical treatments, adjuvant therapies, and prognostic outcomes were distinct for each of these BTCs.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: CT, MRI, and 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging features of seven cases of adult pancreatoblastoma
Authors: Wu Mengnan , Lin Jiongbin , Liu Zhuangsheng , Huang Zhiming , Wang Ruoning
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study mainly analysed the imaging data for seven cases of adult pancreatoblastoma (PB) and summarized additional imaging features of this disease based on a literature review, aiming to improve the understanding and diagnosis rate of this disease.

Materials and methods

The imaging data for seven adult patients pathologically diagnosed with adult PB were retrospectively analysed. Among the seven patients, six underwent computed tomography (CT) scans, two patients underwent abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and five patients underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT.

Results

The tumours were located in the head of the pancreas in three cases, in the tail of the pancreas in two cases, and in the gastric antrum and neck of the pancreas in one case. Six tumours showed blurred edges, and an incomplete envelope was observed in only two cases when enhanced, which showed extruded growth and cyst-solid masses; one tumour was a solid mass with ossification. Showing mild or significant enhancement in the arterial phase (AP) for six cases. In the MRI sequence, isointensity was found on suppressed T1-weighted imaging, and hyperintensity was noted on suppressed T2-weighted imaging in two cases, with significant enhancement. Pancreatic duct dilatation was found in four cases. Tumour 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging exhibited high uptake in five cases.

Conclusion

Adult PB involves a single tumour and commonly manifests as cystic-solid masses with blurred edges. Capsules are rare, ossification is an important feature, tumours can also present in ectopic pancreatic tissues, with mild or strengthening in the AP, and 18F-FDG uptake is high. These features are relatively specific characteristics in adult PB.
Posttraumatic growth in children aged 8–18 years with malignancies in China
Authors: Liu Yi-Xuan , Liu Qian , Yu Lu , Mo Lin
Published: December 2022

Objective

To establish a nomogram prediction model for posttraumatic growth (PTG) in children aged 8–18 years with malignancies in China and to convenient intuitively judge psychological tendencies.

Methods

We recruited 358 children aged 8–18 years with malignancies in China as the study participants. Data from 250 cases collected from June 2019 to November 2019 were used as the model group, data from 108 cases collected from December 2019 to January 2020 were used as the validation group. Logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of PTG in the model group. A prediction model was then established using a nomogram. The centrality measurement index(C-index) and receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were used to verify the model.

Results

Among the 250 children in the model group, 65 children with malignancies had PTG, with an occurrence of 26%. The model showed that the child’s age, diagnosis, coping style and self-efficacy level and the educational level of the caregiver were core predictors of PTG (P < 0.05). The ROC of the model was 0.837, the best cutoff value was 0.566. The C-indexes of the internal and external validation were 0.837 (95% CI: 0786 ~ 0.886) and 0.813 (95% CI: 0732 ~ 0.894), respectively.

Conclusions

The prediction model of PTG in children aged 8–18 years with malignancies in China has good discrimination and consistency and can accurately predict PTG. It can be used to clinically assess the psychological status of children in the future.
Retraction Note: Neonatal congenital mesoblastic nephroma that caused respiratory oncologic emergency early after birth: a case report
Authors: Kato Hirotaka , Mitani Yasuyuki , Goda Taro , Yamaue Hiroki
Published: December 2022

This article has been retracted. Please see the Retraction Notice for more detail: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12887-022-03210-8.
Value of 3D ultrasound flow imaging combined with serum AFP, β-hCG, sFlt-1 and CK in the diagnosis of placenta accreta
Authors: Cai Sheng-nan , Wu Yan-ting , Zeng Li , Ding Yi-qian
Published: December 2022

Purpose

To analyze the diagnostic value of placenta three-dimensional (3D) energy blood flow parameters combined with maternal serum AFP, β-hCG, sFlt-1 and CK levels for PA.

Methods

30 pregnant women with PA and 30 pregnant women with normal placenta were randomly selected in the Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Nantong University from January 2021 to December 2021. Thereafter, the 3D energy ultrasound was applied to detect the placenta VI, FI and VFI. Moreover, the diagnostic value of different parameters combined with serum AFP, β-hCG, sFlt-1 and CK levels for PA was analyzed.

Results

Multivariate analysis results indicated that, gravidity > 2 and with/without placenta previa were the independent risk factors for PA (P < 0.05). In PA group, the AFP, β-hCG, CK, placenta VI, FI and VFI values were higher than those in non-PA group, while sFlt-1 was apparently lower than that in non-PA group. With the increase in PA degree, the serum AFP, β-hCG and CK levels increased. Meanwhile, serum sFlt-1 level was negatively correlated with PA degree. Serum AFP, β-hCG, sFlt-1, CK and placenta VFI showed prediction potency for PA, and their combined detection attained the optimal diagnostic value for predicting PA. ROC curve analysis suggested that, serum AFP, β-hCG, sFlt-1, CK and 3D ultrasound VFI value had the greatest AUC values in predicting PA, which might provide reference for the clinical diagnosis and disease evaluation of PA. Conclusion Serum AFP, β-hCG, sFlt-1, CK and placental VFI can increase the consistency in the diagnosis of PA. Serum markers combined with 3D ultrasound blood flow imaging can improve the sensitivity and specificity of prenatal diagnosis of PA, which provides an important reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Effectiveness of clinical decision support in controlling inappropriate red blood cell and platelet transfusions, speciality specific responses and behavioural change
Authors: Atia Jolene , Evison Felicity , Gallier Suzy , Pettler Sophie , Garrick Mark , Ball Simon , Lester Will , Morton Suzanne , Coleman Jamie , Pankhurst Tanya
Published: December 2022

Background

Electronic clinical decision support (CDS) within Electronic Health Records has been used to improve patient safety, including reducing unnecessary blood product transfusions. We assessed the effectiveness of CDS in controlling inappropriate red blood cell (RBC) and platelet transfusion in a large acute hospital and how speciality specific behaviours changed in response.

Methods

We used segmented linear regression of interrupted time series models to analyse the instantaneous and long term effect of introducing blood product electronic warnings to prescribers. We studied the impact on transfusions for patients in critical care (CC), haematology/oncology (HO) and elsewhere.

Results

In non-CC or HO, there was significant and sustained decrease in the numbers of RBC transfusions after introduction of alerts. In CC the alerts reduced transfusions but this was not sustained, and in HO there was no impact on RBC transfusion. For platelet transfusions outside of CC and HO, the introduction of alerts stopped a rising trend of administration of platelets above recommended targets. In CC, alerts reduced platelet transfusions, but in HO alerts had little impact on clinician prescribing.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that CDS can result in immediate change in user behaviour which is more obvious outside specialist settings of CC and HO. It is important that this is then sustained. In CC and HO, blood transfusion practices differ. CDS thus needs to take specific circumstances into account. In this case there are acceptable reasons to transfuse outside of these crude targets and CDS should take these into account.