bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency and impact on clinical outcomes of sarcopenia in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Fujita Kohei , Ohkubo Hirotsugu , Nakano Akiko , Mori Yuta , Fukumitsu Kensuke , Fukuda Satoshi , Kanemitsu Yoshihiro , Uemura Takehiro , Tajiri Tomoko , Maeno Ken , Ito Yutaka , Oguri Tetsuya , Ozawa Yoshiyuki , Murase Takayuki , Niimi Akio
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Sarcopenia is a syndrome characterized by reduced muscle mass and function. It is well-recognized as a complication in chronic diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, little is known about sarcopenia in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of sarcopenia and the association between quality of life and sarcopenia in patients with IPF.

Methods

In this pilot cross-sectional study, 56 Japanese outpatients with IPF (49 men) were enrolled prospectively. Sarcopenia was diagnosed according to the criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019. Its associations with clinical parameters including age, pulmonary functions, physical performance, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were examined.

Results

The frequency of sarcopenia was 39.3% ( n = 22) in this cohort. There were significant differences in St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire ( p = .005), modified Medical Research Council score ( p = .004), and Hospital and Anxiety Depression Scale depression score ( p = .030) between the sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic groups. On multivariate regression analysis, 6-min walk distance (6MWD) was an independent factor associated with sarcopenia (odds ratio 1.241, 95% confidence interval 1.016–1.515, p = .034).

Conclusion

Sarcopenia was associated with PROs and physical performance in patients with IPF.
Have You Heard of Developmental Language Disorder? An Online Survey
Authors: Kim Jae-Hyun , Davies Benjamin , Xu Rattanasone Nan
Published: August 2022

Developmental language disorder (DLD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. It had been suggested that public awareness is low for DLD, especially in comparison with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and dyslexia. This study investigated awareness of DLD, ASD, ADHD, and dyslexia, as well as specific language impairment (SLI) in Australia. An online survey about awareness and knowledge of DLD, SLI, ASD, ADHD, and dyslexia was completed by 272 people in Australia. People had low awareness of DLD (19.9%) compared with ASD (97.4%), ADHD (97.7%), and dyslexia (98.5%). The former label for the disorder, SLI, had an even lower level of awareness (9.4%). People have heard about DLD from a wide range of sources and were likely to have incorrect knowledge about DLD as well as believing ASD or ADHD to be the most prevalent disorders. Awareness and knowledge of DLD appear to be low. More targeted approaches to increasing public awareness of DLD are needed.
Total Arch Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair Using Double Fenestrated Physician-Modified Stent-Grafts: 100 Patients
Authors: Canaud Ludovic , Chassin-Trubert Lucien , Abouliatim Issam , Hireche Kheira , Bacri Christophe , Alric Pierre , Gandet Thomas
Published: August 2022

Objective:

The aim was to evaluate early and medium-term outcomes of double fenestrated physician-modified endovascular grafts for total endovascular aortic arch repair.

Methods:

This single-center retrospective analysis of prospectively-collected data included 100 patients, from January 2017 to December 2021, undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for zone 0. The fenestrations were a proximal larger fenestration that incorporated the brach2iocephalic trunk and left common carotid artery and a distal smaller fenestration for the left subclavian artery (LSA). Only the LSA fenestration was stented.

Results:

The median duration for stent-graft modification was 23±6 minutes. Of the 100 patients, 70 were men. The mean patient age was 70±10.5 years. Indications for treatment included degenerative aortic arch aneurysm (n=32), dissecting aortic arch aneurysm after type A dissections (n=23) and (n=19) after type B dissections, acute complicated type B dissection (n=16), and other pathologies (n=10). Technical success rate was 97%. The 30 day mortality was 2% (n=2). Four patients (4%) had minor stroke with full recovery. One patient (1%) had a type IA endoleak, 1 patient (1%) had a type IB endoleak, and 2 patients (2%) have a type II endoleak from the LSA. Eight patients (8%) required reintervention: 1 type IA endoleak, 1 type IB endoleak, 1 retrograde type A dissection, and 5 because of access-related complications. During a mean follow-up of 24±7.2 months, there were no aortic rupture, paraplegia, and all supra-aortic trunks were patent.

Conclusions:

Double homemade fenestrated TEVAR is both feasible and effective for total endovascular aortic arch repair avoiding the need for anatomical and extra-anatomical surgical revascularization. The long-term durability will need to be assessed in studies with long-term follow-up.

Clinical Impact

Double homemade fenestrated TEVAR is effective for total endovascular aortic arch repair avoiding the need for anatomical and extra-anatomical surgical revascularization. The standout feature of this double fenestrated device is its simple handling during operation with the proximal fenestrations being directed to the orifices of the BT and LCCA automatically when the LSA fenestration is catheterized and secured by covered stent placement. The deployment algorithm actively steers the operator away from superfluous manipulations of the device within the arch and avoids guidewire manipulation in carotid arteries. The long-term durability will need to be assessed in studies with long-term follow-up.
Scoring Benefits to Eastward Travel in the NBA
Authors: Hasbany James , Burke Ryland , Watson Lawrence , Doremus Jacqueline
Published: August 2022

Travel across time zones may affect player scoring through circadian rhythm. We test how travel affects scoring for the US National Basketball Association from 2014–2018, a period featuring a new game scheduler. We also test whether a collective bargaining agreement that protected player rest changed how travel affects scoring. We find eastward travel increases scoring and point spread via three-pointers and field goals, with implications for point spread betting in sports gambling markets. The 2017 collective bargaining agreement mitigates the eastward travel benefit on scoring and increases scoring overall, suggesting improved fairness and potential benefits for players and fans.
Downregulation of TRIM33 Promotes Survival and Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wang Fang , Wang Wenjun , Wu Xiaoting , Tang Cui , Du Fang , Lu Zhiguo , Zhang Zhuoyang , Xu Hui , Cao Xiangmei , Li P. Andy
Published: August 2022

Among all malignancies worldwide, gastric cancer is the fifth most common cancer with the third highest mortality rate. One of the main reasons for the low survival rate is the recurrence and metastasis that occurs in many patients after surgery. Numerous studies have shown that abnormal TRIM33 expression is associated with the progression of malignant tumors. TRIM33 can function either as a tumor suppressor or tumor promoter in different cancers. Our data showed that TRIM33 was highly expressed in stomach cancer, and in human gastric cancer tissues, low expression of TRIM33 was associated with poor prognosis in patients with gastric cancer. To clarify the function of TRIM33 in survival and epithelial–mesenchymal transition in gastric cancer cells, we investigated the effect of TRIM33 knockdown in several gastric cancer cell lines. Downregulation of TRIM33 in BGC-823 and SGC-7901 cells enhanced the proliferation, colony formation, and migratory ability of these gastric cancer cells. It also promoted epithelial–mesenchymal transition; transfection of cells with siRNA targeting TRIM33 led to the upregulation of vimentin and N-Cadherin expression, and downregulation of E-Cadherin expression. Meanwhile, the transforming growth factor beta pathway was activated: levels of transforming growth factor beta were elevated and the expressions of p-Smad2, Smad2, Smad3, and Smad4 were activated. To confirm the role of TRIM33 in vivo, a xenograft model was established in nude mice. Immunohistochemical analysis identified that the protein levels of TRIM33, p-Smad2, Smad2, Smad3, Smad4, vimentin, and N-Cadherin were increased, and E-Cadherin levels were decreased, in xenograft tumors from the si-TRIM33 group. Taken together, these results suggest that TRIM33 may be a potential marker for the diagnosis and prognosis of gastric cancer. Furthermore, it may also serve as a novel target for gastric cancer treatment.
HSP90AB1 Promotes the Proliferation, Migration, and Glycolysis of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Hongbo , Yin Xiteng , Zhang Xinyu , Zhou Meng , Xu Wenguang , Wei Zheng , Song Chuanhui , Han Shengwei , Han Wei
Published: August 2022

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the 6th most common cancer worldwide. Heat shock protein 90 alpha family class B member 1 (HSP90AB1) is highly expressed in a variety of cancers and is associated with poor prognosis, however, its role in HNSCC is still poorly understood. This study aimed to explore the function HSP90AB1 played in HNSCC progression. Methods: The expression level of HSP90AB1 in HNSCC was analyzed by bioinformatics analysis and western blotting, and its relationship with clinicopathological parameters was analyzed by bioinformatics analysis and immunohistochemistry. Three stable HSP90AB1 knockdown HNSCC cell lines were constructed by lentiviral transfection. The effect of HSP90AB1 knockdown on the proliferation and migration of HNSCC cells was tested by CCK-8 assay, EdU incorporation assay, colony formation assay, nude mouse xenograft models, transwell migration assay, wound healing assay, and western blotting. The effect of HSP90AB1 knockdown on glycolysis in HNSCC cells was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR and related assay kits. Finally, the levels of Akt and phospho-Akt (Ser473) proteins after HSP90AB1 knockdown were detected by western blotting. Results: HSP90AB1 was highly expressed in HNSCC and associated with T grade, lymph node metastasis, and prognosis. Knockdown of HSP90AB1 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and glycolysis of HNSCC, and reduced the level of phospho-Akt. Conclusion: HSP90AB1 functions as an oncogene in HNSCC, and has the potential to become a prognostic factor and therapeutic target.
The Value of Computed Tomography-Guided Percutaneous Lung Biopsy Combined With Rapid On-Site Evaluation in Diagnosis of Peripheral Pulmonary Nodules
Authors: Liu Wei , Xu Chunhua , Li Li , Yuan Qi , Wang Wei , Zou Jue
Published: August 2022

Objective: To investigate the value of computed tomography-guided percutaneous lung biopsy (CT-PLB) combined with rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) in the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs). Methods: A total of 108 patients who diagnosed with PPLs by chest CT examination were prospectively collected and randomly divided into ROSE group (n = 56) and No-ROSE group (n = 52). Both groups received CT-PLB and pathological examination. The smear submitted for ROSE was stained using Diff Quik dye. The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), number of punctures, puncture time and incidence of complications were compared between the two groups. Results: The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of the ROSE group were 89.29%, 87.50%, 91.67%, 93.33%, and 84.62%, respectively. The number of punctures in the ROSE group was significantly lower than that in the No-ROSE group ( P < .05). The incidence of pneumothorax and hemoptysis in the ROSE group were lower than those in the No-ROSE group, but there was no statistical difference between the two groups ( P > .05). ROSE has good concordance with routine pathological examination in the diagnosis of unidentified PPLs (Kappa = 0.786, P < .01). Conclusions: CT-PLB combined with ROSE is a safe and effective method for the diagnosis of PPLs.
Occupational Therapy: An Essential Component of Support for Young Children With Cancer
Authors: Sparrow Jessica , Dagen Hannah , Harris Allison , Schwartzberg Sarah , Weathers Lucy , Kibby Megan , Harman Jennifer L. , Jacola Lisa M.
Published: August 2022

We established a multidisciplinary early childhood clinic to support infants and toddlers receiving cancer treatment. The access to occupational therapy (OT) in this population is unknown. To describe the access to OT for infants and toddlers with cancer. We retrospectively reviewed medical records to determine the frequency and characteristics of children with cancer who were referred to OT. Demographic data, medical information, and frequency of referrals were extracted from September 2015 to September 2018. Of the 134 patients, 112 (83.6%) received an OT evaluation: 88.4% were referred for hospital-based OT services; 42.0% were recommended for services upon returning home. Between-group comparisons revealed significant differences in referrals for home- or community-based OT services based on age and disease. OT is crucial to treatment plans that address the developmental needs of young pediatric oncology patients during hospitalization and thereafter. Recommendations for monitoring this vulnerable population are provided.
Religious and Spiritual Implications in Functional Anger
Authors: McGinnis Carol
Published: August 2022

The topic of spirituality has been of interest for many years in the helping professions ( Matise et al., 2018 ; Pargament, 2011 ). Another level of interest is how spirituality may be connected to anger that is culturally informed ( Subarimaniam et al., 2020 ). This writing approaches the topic of functional anger as impacted by the religious and spiritual beliefs with case vignettes pertinent to students, pastoral counselors, nurses, social workers, psychologists, psychotherapists, and other helping professionals.
Birds of a feather flock together: Understanding Filipino millennial academic managers’ mindset
Authors: Obmerga Marwin E , de Guzman Allan B
Published: August 2022

Today, more than ever, there is a need to uncover the patterns of thinking that shape the rationality of the leader cohort to aid them in their role-making of the challenging niche truly. This Husserlian phenomenological inquiry purported to explore the individual and collective lived experiences of nine (9) purposively selected Filipino academic managers regarding the essence of Dweck’s growth and fixed mindsets in their leadership preparation. A semi-structured interview was employed as the main data gathering tool. Field texts were analyzed using Colaizzi’s Procedural Steps to abstract the phenomenon's essence and were validated through the member checking procedure and critical friend technique. Interestingly, the study debuts an insightful Taxonomy of Cognitive Personas, which typifies the dynamic nature of the leader cohort's mindsets. Embedded in the Perennial Learner, Proactive Player, and Pragmatic Leader personas are cognitive tools and value priorities utilized in various influencing and regulating experiences in academic organizations. Academic organizations can use the findings of this study to focus on the cognitive preparation of millennial managers for higher leadership roles. Such findings are expected to complement the skill-based preparation that the millennials can employ for their role-making efforts in school leadership.
Influence of coaches’ motivating style on motivation, and sport commitment of young water polo players
Authors: Murillo Miguel , Abós Ángel , Sevil-Serrano Javier , Burgueño Rafael , García-González Luis
Published: August 2022

Coaches’ motivating style plays a key role in athletes’ motivational outcomes. However, limited research has explored the effects of athletes’ perceptions of coaches’ need-supportive and controlling styles on the bright and dark motivational pathways in the sport setting, and particularly in young water polo players, where one out of two players drops out of this sport as adults. Guided by self-determination theory, the objective of this study was to analyse the differentiated effects between water polo players’ perception of need-supportive and controlling style from their coaches on their reported basic psychological need satisfaction and frustration, motivation and sport commitment. In this cross-sectional study, 633 Spanish water polo players (33.96% women; Mage = 14.74), from 43 clubs and three age groups (U-14, U-16 and U-18) completed validated questionnaires assessing study variables. Structural equation modelling showed a positive association of players’ perceptions of need-supportive style from their coaches with their reported need satisfaction, autonomous motivation and sport commitment. Similarly, perceived controlling coaching style was positively associated with reported need frustration, controlled motivation and amotivation. Regarding cross-paths, perceived need-supportive coaching style was negatively related to reported need frustration, while reported amotivation was negatively associated with reported sport commitment. These findings suggest the importance of water polo players’ perceptions of (de)motivating styles from their coaches on their reported motivational outcomes and sport commitment. Players’ perception of coach need-supportive behaviours and, in particular, the avoidance of perceived controlling behaviours, buffer against experiences of reported need frustration and, consequently, amotivation, which seems to play a key role in preventing lack of sport commitment in young water polo players.
Dual anti-platelet therapy for secondary prevention in intracranial atherosclerotic disease: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Reale Giuseppe , Zauli Aurelia , La Torre Giuseppe , Mannocci Alice , Mazya Michael V. , Zedde Marialuisa , Giovannini Silvia , Moci Marco , Iacovelli Chiara , Caliandro Pietro
Published: August 2022

Background:

Intracranial arterial stenosis (ICAS) is a non-marginal cause of stroke/transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and is associated with high stroke recurrence rate. Some studies have investigated the best secondary prevention ranging from antithrombotic therapy to endovascular treatment (ET). However, no direct comparison between all the possible treatments is currently available especially between single and dual anti-platelet therapies (SAPT and DAPT).

Aim:

To establish whether DAPT is more effective than SAPT in preventing the recurrence of ICAS-related stroke, by means of a network meta-analysis (NMA).

Design:

Systematic review and NMA in accordance to PRISMA guidelines.

Data sources and methods:

We performed a systematic review of trials investigating secondary prevention (SAPT or DAPT, anticoagulant treatment or ET) in patients with symptomatic ICAS available in MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science from January 1989 to May 2021. We defined our primary efficacy outcome as the recurrence of ischemic stroke/TIA. We analysed the extracted data with Bayesian NMA approach.

Results:

We identified 815 studies and included 5 trials in the NMA. Sequence generation was adequate in all the selected studies while the allocation concealment method was described in one study. All the included studies reported the pre-specified primary outcomes, and outcome assessment was blinded in all the studies. We used the fixed-effect approach as the heterogeneity was not significant ( p > 0.1) according to the Cochran’s Q statistic. DAPT was superior to SAPT and DAPT + ET in preventing stroke/TIA recurrence [respectively, odds ratio (OR), 0.59; confidence interval (CI), 0.39–0.9; and OR, 0.49, CI, 0.26–0.88], while no difference was found between DAPT and oral anticoagulant therapy (OAC). DAPT was safer than OAC (OR, 0.48; CI, 0.26–0.89) and DAPT + ET (OR, 0.50; CI, 0.35–0.71), while no difference was found between DAPT and SAPT.

Conclusion:

DAPT is more effective than SAPT for secondary stroke prevention in patients with symptomatic ICAS, without increasing the risk of haemorrhage.

Registration:

Prospero/CRD42019140033.
Novel Methods to Understand the Temporal Nature and Accuracy of Delivery for Insulin Infusion Pumps
Authors: Kumar S. Siddharth , Karia Deval , Gopkumar Arjun , Koty Pavan G. , Arora Manish
Published: August 2022

Background:

A wide suite of methods are available to evaluate delivery accuracy of insulin pumps. However, these methods do not capture any temporal information, which may be critical for design of artificial pancreas (AP) systems. We propose a novel video microscopy method to understand the delivery accuracy and temporal nature for a new durable pump under development (IFP), and a commercially available pump (Medtronic 722G, M722G).

Methods:

The cannula tip of an infusion set is inserted into a graduated pipette placed under a digital microscope. A video of the delivery is captured to track the fluid meniscus, to measure volumetric delivery rate and accuracy. This was done for a programmed value of 0.5 and 1 U. A similar procedure was adopted to track linear motion of the piston rod, which actuates the reservoir plunger, for a programmed value of 10 U.

Results:

It was observed that the commercially available pump delivers insulin in pulses of 0.05 U every two seconds. The mean absolute volumetric delivery error (MAE) for both pumps was found to be within the values reported previously. More importantly, it was found that a significant fraction of the programmed value is delivered, after completion of the planned bolus duration (IFP: 14.31% vs M722G: 9.38% for 1 U delivery).

Conclusions:

The methods presented in this article help understand the delivery dynamics of liquid drug delivery devices. Our results indicate that a significant fraction of insulin delivery happens after the planned bolus duration, which might be important consideration for design of AP systems.
Lean Design of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Patient Room for Efficient and Safe Care Delivery
Authors: Lu Yuqian , Bishop Naomi B. , Zadeh Rana
Published: August 2022

Background:

The pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is an environment where seriously ill children receive complex care, delivered mostly by specialty-trained nurses (registered nurses [RNs]) who must perform multiple high-level tasks. With stressors on healthcare systems at an all-time high, design that optimizes RN workflow has taken on a renewed imperative.

Objectives:

To employ a multimodal approach (1) to identify environmental factors in the PICU patient room that contribute to caregiver workflow inefficiencies, (2) to optimize safety by identifying high-touch surfaces that cause hospital-acquired infections, (3) to develop human-centered design recommendations.

Methods:

This mixed-method case study was conducted in a 23-bed urban hospital PICU. The activities, movements, and workflows of 13 RNs were recorded using spatial movement mapping, behavioral mapping, and clinical activity mapping. Frequency of RN contact with surfaces was documented to assess relative infection transmission risk. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with RNs to elicit their views on care delivery and their physical work environment.

Results:

Direct patient care occupied 50% of RNs’ time. Of the direct patient care workflow activities recorded, 26% were to prepare for care around the bedside, while 27% were for random travel between clean and soiled areas. The surfaces most frequently touched were (1) patient bedrails, (2) intravenous pumps and poles, (3) tubing and medical equipment, and (4) vital sign monitors.

Conclusion:

Value-added tasks account for only about 20% of nurses’ work. Combining technology and strategic interior design to streamline workflow and enhance infection prevention optimizes efficiency and empowers frontline providers to maximize their time at the bedside performing value-added tasks.
Not Just an Issue in Forested Regions: Investigating the Consumption and Trade of Pangolins in a Forest-Savannah Mosaic Area of Cameroon
Authors: Mouafo Alain D. T. , Ingram Daniel J. , Binda Valery A. , Ngwayi Itoe Constantine N. , Mayaka Theodore B.
Published: August 2022

Background and research aims

Cameroon hosts three species of pangolins and has recently been identified as a hub of pangolin trafficking. However, information on threats to pangolins needed to guide conservation efforts remains scarce, notably on consumption and trade patterns, and the prevalence of individuals trading pangolins. Local communities sharing the same habitats with pangolins can provide such information, which is useful to better target interventions.

Methods

Based on a snowball sampling approach and using interview surveys in 20 villages surrounding Mbam et Djerem National Park, we investigated the consumption of pangolins and its drivers, parts sold, selling prices, places sold and buyers, and employed the nominative technique to estimate the percentage of people within the surveyed population engaged in selling pangolins.

Results

Our results showed that both giant and white-bellied pangolins are locally consumed, mainly for their taste, and traded for meat and scales. Distance to the capital city Yaoundé, ethnolinguistic group, and education significantly affected the likelihood of consuming or trading white-bellied and giant pangolins. Selling and prices of giant pangolin meat and scales were significantly affected by distance to Yaoundé. The prevalence of people selling white-bellied and giant pangolins were higher in Tibati and Yoko compared to other municipalities.

Implications for conservation

Overall, our study provided information necessary for effective law enforcement and research-oriented decision-making for pangolin conservation. We recommend the establishment of consumption reduction campaigns focusing on taste preference, investigation of the impacts of the newly constructed national road on pangolin supply chains and trafficking, and increasing the involvement of local communities in the management process of Mbam et Djerem National Park.
Multiple giant coronary artery aneurysms with extended coronary ectasia emerging 12 years after previous coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Fujii Taro , Mutsuga Masato , Narita Yuji , Tokuda Yoshiyuki , Terazawa Sachie , Ito Hideki , Uchida Wataru , Yuhara Satoshi , Usui Akihiko
Published: August 2022

A 73-year-old man presented with multiple giant coronary artery aneurysms. Twelve years prior to the presentation, he had undergone coronary artery bypass grafting. At that time, he exhibited small aneurysms (16 mm diameter) in the right coronary artery and a single aneurysm (10 mm diameter) in the left circumflex artery. During follow-up, the aneurysms gradually increased in size (to 45 and 30 mm, respectively, at 12 years after surgery). We resected all of the aneurysms and performed coronary artery bypass grafting of the left circumflex artery through re-sternotomy.
Free interactive counselling program in a mobile communication application for improving health education on indwelling ureteric stents after ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy: An observational study
Authors: Chuang Tzu-Yu , Cheng Weiming , Chiu Yi-Chun , Fan Yu-Hua , Chi Chia-Chi , Chang Chang-Chi , Liao Chia-Heng
Published: August 2022

Objective

This study examines the potential benefit of an interactive counselling program via a mobile application (app), which can instantly provide patients with the necessary information and correct response regarding their condition.

Methods

We designed a free ‘Ureteric Stent Interactive Program’ for patients receiving ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy and provided the program to interested patients. Patient data were collected from medical records and depending on whether patients used our program, they were divided into two groups: ‘program-user’ and ‘non-user’. The differences between the groups were analysed using Fisher’s exact tests.

Results

Of the 70 patients, 50 elected to use the program. The program-user group was significantly younger (<60 years: 74% vs 15%, P<0.001) and had higher education levels (40% vs 5%, P = 0.004). All 50 patients in the program-user group reported being satisfied (32%) or very satisfied (68%) with the program. Patients over 60 years were significantly more satisfied with program (35.5% vs 6.3%, P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Younger patients with high education levels were more likely to use the app and improve their health knowledge. Using the program resulted in high satisfaction, especially among older patients. This study demonstrates the benefits of interactive application for educating patients regarding their health.
The relationship between cognition, education, and employment in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Conway Devon S , Bermel Robert A , Planchon Sarah M
Published: August 2022

Background

Processing speed decline is a common manifestation of multiple sclerosis (MS). The processing speed test (PST) is a validated electronic cognitive assessment based on the Symbol–Digit Modalities Test, which is routinely administered as part of the multi-institutional Multiple Sclerosis Partners Advancing Technology and Health Solutions (MS PATHS) initiative. The longitudinal relationship between education, processing speed, and employment is unclear.

Objectives

Determine the longitudinal impact of educational attainment on processing speed and employment.

Methods

MS PATHS data through March 2020 were analyzed. Repeat PST assessments at 1, 2, and 3 years were classified as improved, worsened, or stable. Linear regression was used to evaluate the relationship between education and baseline PST performance and logistic regression was used to determine the odds of PST worsening by educational attainment. Employment outcomes were analyzed by PST status and educational level.

Results

There were 13,732 patients analyzed. Education impacted baseline PST scores, but had a limited effect on PST performance over time. Education was protective with respect to employment in the setting of both PST worsening and improvement.

Conclusion

Greater education results in better baseline processing speed and is protective with respect to employment status. Its impact on processing speed over time is marginal.
Examining Ecological Factors that Predict School Counselors’ Engagement in Leadership Practices
Authors: Hilts Derron , Liu Yanhong , Li Dan , Luke Melissa
Published: August 2022

There is a dearth of literature that has empirically examined ecological factors that influence school counselors’ engagement in leadership. Thus, using hierarchical regression analysis, we examined whether sociocultural factors (i.e., race/ethnicity, childhood socioeconomic status, current socioeconomic status, age, gender), professional developmental experiences (i.e., leadership experience, supervision, mentorship, leadership training), intra- and interpersonal factors (i.e., multicultural competence, leadership self-efficacy, psychological empowerment), and school climate significantly and uniquely predicted school counselors’ leadership practices. The final hierarchical regression model, using 647 school counselors nationwide, accounted for 57% variance in these practices. Sociocultural factors, professional developmental experiences, and intra- and interpersonal factors significantly and uniquely contributed to the school counselors’ leadership practices. We discuss implications for the profession.
Psychosocial Coping Resources and the Toll of COVID-19 Bereavement
Authors: Grace Matthew K. , VanHeuvelen Jane S.
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic ushered in a bereavement crisis unparalleled in a generation, with devastating consequences for the mental health of those who lost a loved one to the virus. Using national survey data ( n = 2,000) containing detailed information about people’s experiences of pandemic-related stressors, coping resources, and mental health, in this study we examine whether and how three psychosocial coping resources—mastery, self-esteem, and social support—moderate the association between COVID-19 bereavement and psychological distress. We find that coping resources have both expected and unanticipated effects on the relationship between bereavement and mental health. Consistent with the stress process model, higher levels of mastery uniformly reduce the damaging effects of bereavement on depressive symptoms and anger, whereas self-esteem mitigates the positive association between losing a close tie to the virus and reports of anger. Contrary to the stress-buffering hypothesis, however, higher levels of perceived support exacerbate the positive associations between bereavement and each indicator of psychological distress. Our findings suggest that the putatively advantageous aspects of social support may be compromised, or even reversed, in the context of constrained social engagement. We discuss the theoretical implications of these findings for sociological research on the stress process.
Prospective Multicenter Trial of Cervical Arthroplasty with the ROTAIO® Cervical Disc Prosthesis
Authors: Fleck Steffen , Lang Anna , Lehmberg Jens , Landscheidt Julia Fee , Gerlach Ruediger , Rathert Julian , Ulrich Christian , Schär Ralph T. , Hartmann Sebastian , Mueller Jan-Uwe , Thome Claudius
Published: August 2022

Study design

Clinical observational study.

Objective

The ROTAIO® cervical disc prosthesis is a novel unconstrained implant with a variable center of rotation aiming at physiological motion. The objective of this multicenter prospective trial was to evaluate clinical outcome and complications within 2 years.

Material and Methods

120 patients (72 females and 48 males with median age of 43.0 years [23-60 yrs] underwent ACDA (ROTAIO®, SIGNUS Medical, Alzenau, Germany) and were prospectively followed for 24 months. Preoperative complaints were mainly associated with radiculopathy (n = 104) or myelopathy (n=16). There were 108 monosegmental and 12 bisegmental procedures including 6 hybrid constructs. Clinical outcome was evaluated at 3, 12 and 24 months in 100%, 96% and 77% of the cohort by VAS, NDI, WL-26, Patient`s Satisfaction Index (PSI), SF-36, Nurick Score, mJOA, Composite Success Rate, complications, patient`s overall satisfaction and analgesics use.

Results

Highly significant clinical improvements were observed according to NDI and VAS (P < .0001 (arm); P < .001 (neck); P = .002 (head)) at all time points. Analgetic use could be reduced in 87.1 to 95.2%. Doctor`s visits have been reduced in 93.8% after 24 months. Patient`s overall satisfaction was high with 78.4 to 83.5% of patients. The composite success rate was 77.5% after 12 months and 76.9% after 24 months. There were no major complications in this series. Slight subsidence of the prosthesis was observed in 2 patients and 3 patients demonstrated fusion after 24 months. 2 patients developed symptomatic foraminal stenosis, so that implant removal and fusion was performed resulting in a revision rate of 1.7% in 2 years.

Conclusion

The ROTAIO® cervical disc prosthesis is a safe and efficient treatment option for symptomatic degenerative disc disease demonstrating highly significant clinical improvement and high patient`s overall satisfaction with very low revision rates at 2 years.
Changes in Exchange Rate Regimes and Some Macro Factors: Their Impacts on the Valuation of Bangladeshi Taka
Authors: Goswami Gour Gobinda , Rahman Md Touhidur , Barai Munim K.
Published: August 2022

Bangladesh, an emerging economy in South Asia, has gone through several regimes of exchange rate systems in the course of its 50 years of independence. A broad-based study to determine the exchange rate of the Bangladeshi taka (BDT) is missing in the existing literature. Using the annual data from 1972–1973 to 2017–2018, the study has measured the changes in exchange rates of BDT during three regimes: a fixed exchange rate, a semi-fixed system and a purely floating system or managed floating system that Bangladesh has followed in successive order. It has also described the factors that need to be affected by any change in the exchange rate. By using a desk research method, this article has investigated the roles of several macroeconomic variables such as the currency denomination of foreign exchange rate reserve components, money supply components, return on financial instruments or interest rates, gross domestic product, trade policy, asset holding strategy and interbank intervention strategy in BDT’s exchange rate fluctuations during those regimes. Among others, we found that Bangladesh’s volume of US dollars (USD) as a foreign reserve significantly outruns the sum of all other currencies and assets combined. However, an extreme dependency on USD might expose BDT to ‘currency risk’, which may be avoided by adopting a better nominal anchor and including some other major currencies in its basket.
Hydroethanolic Extracts of Senna alata Leaves Possess Antimalarial Effects and Reverses Haematological and Biochemical Pertubation in Plasmodium berghei-infected Mice
Authors: Atanu Francis O. , Rotimi Damilare , Ilesanmi Omotayo B. , Al Malki Jamila S. , Batiha Gaber E. , Idakwoji Precious A.
Published: August 2022

The current work investigated the chemical profile, antimalarial potential and capacity of hydroethanolic Senna alata extract (SAE) to reverse hematological and biochemical pertubation in Plasmodium berghei infected mice. Results of the phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, steroids and cardiac glycosides. Total phenolic and flavonoid content was estimated to be 45.29 ± 2.34 mg GAE/g and 25.22 ± 2.26 mg QE/g respectively. In vitro analysis of the extract also confirmed its antioxidant property. Results of the test for prophylaxis of P. berghei indicated that SAE suppressed parasitemia significantly in treated groups in a dose dependent manner when compared with negative control group. Similarly, SAE improved the mean survival time (MST) and packed cell volume (PCV) of infected mice. The test for curative effect showed that SAE significantly suppressed parasitemia to 4.50 ± 1.05% compared to untreated group 29.83 ± 3.49%. Results of liver and kidney functions indices of treated animals indicated that whereas infection with P. berghei caused increase in the levels of AST, ALT, ALP, urea and creatinine, treatment with SAE significantly reversed the perturbation. Similarly, infected mice were dyslipidemic with concomitant increased activity of HMG CoA reductase and decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes with increase in lipid peroxides levels. However, these alterations were significantly reversed by administration of SAE. Results of this study shows that Senna alata possess antimalarial activity and therefore justify the traditional use of plant for the treatment of malaria.
Evaluating spatial statistical and machine learning models in urban dynamic population mapping
Authors: Cheng Zhifeng , Wang Jianghao , Zhu Kaixin , Ge Yong , Zhou Chenghu
Published: August 2022

Understanding population dynamics at fine spatiotemporal granularities are valuable to human-centered studies. With the increasing availability of high-frequency human digital footprint data, the past decades have witnessed numerous efforts in mapping populations at fine spatiotemporal scales. However, such research still lacks a unified standard in modeling strategy and auxiliary data selection, especially a systematic comparison between newly developed machine learning techniques and traditional spatial statistical methods under different covariates provisions. Here, we compared two spatial statistical models, the Bayesian space-time model and geographically and temporally weighted regression, with two machine learning techniques, random forest and eXtreme gradient boosting, in a case study of hourly population mapping at 100 m resolution in Beijing. We evaluated the model performance with varied covariates combinations and found that the Bayesian space-time model achieved the best in conjunction with urban function data. Leveraging the optimal model constructed, we mapped dynamic population distribution and concluded human activity patterns on diverse city amenities. This paper emphasizes the importance of spatiotemporal dependency information in fine temporal scale population mapping and the urban function covariates in urban population mapping.
Mobility as a Service and urban infrastructure: From concept to practice
Authors: Qiao Si , Huang Guan , Yeh Anthony Gar-On
Published: August 2022

The debate about how Mobility as a Service (MaaS) will revolutionize individual and collective mobility is gaining increasing attention from researchers, industries, and public sectors. MaaS is expected to create a techno-utopia with a new organization and operation of transport systems where residents have equal access to instant and ubiquitous mobility services. However, transport service is an artifact that is highly dependent on the construction of urban infrastructure. The success of MaaS requires the support of urban infrastructure that we categorize as (1) transport-flow infrastructure, (2) information-flow infrastructure, and (3) computing-flow infrastructure. The connotation of urban infrastructure here includes not only conventional concepts, such as transportation infrastructure, but also intelligent transportation concepts, such as high-speed communication networks and autonomous fleets. Moreover, travel behavior data collected by city sensors, communication networks, and intelligent vehicles require appropriate infrastructures to dynamically compute for fleet dispatch and demand-supply match. Based on the degree of integration of these infrastructures, MaaS projects will have different results in varying cities. From concept to practice, given that a vast disparity in infrastructure exists between cities, we need an inclusive, mobile, and global understanding of the MaaS concept to make it successful in different parts of the world.
Prebiotic galactooligosaccharides interact with mouse gut microbiota to attenuate acute graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Holmes Zachary C. , Tang Helen , Liu Congxiao , Bush Amy , Neubert Benjamin C. , Jiao Yiqun , Covington Megan , Cardona Diana M. , Kirtley Michelle C. , Chen Benny J. , Chao Nelson J. , David Lawrence A. , Sung Anthony D.
Published: August 2022

Previous studies suggest that gut microbiome disruption induced by chemotherapy, dietary deficiencies, and/or antibiotics are associated with increased incidence of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In a murine model of antibiotic-induced gut microbiome disruption, Holmes and colleagues show that oral administration of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) as a prebiotic attenuates lethal aGVHD, highlighting the crosstalk between diet and gut microbiota. Their data encourage clinical trials of GOS prebiotic diets during HSCT.
MAPK-interacting kinase 1 regulates platelet production, activation, and thrombosis
Authors: Manne Bhanu Kanth , Campbell Robert A. , Bhatlekar Seema , Ajanel Abigail , Denorme Frederik , Portier Irina , Middleton Elizabeth A. , Tolley Neal D. , Kosaka Yasuhiro , Montenont Emilie , Guo Li , Rowley Jesse W. , Bray Paul F. , Jacob Shancy , Fukanaga Rikiro , Proud Christopher , Weyrich Andrew S. , Rondina Matthew T.
Published: August 2022

The MAPK-interacting kinase (Mnk) family includes Mnk1 and Mnk2, which are phosphorylated and activated in response to extracellular stimuli. Mnk1 contributes to cellular responses by regulating messenger RNA (mRNA) translation, and mRNA translation influences platelet production and function. However, the role of Mnk1 in megakaryocytes and platelets has not previously been studied. The present study investigated Mnk1 in megakaryocytes and platelets using both pharmacological and genetic approaches. We demonstrate that Mnk1, but not Mnk2, is expressed and active in human and murine megakaryocytes and platelets. Stimulating human and murine megakaryocytes and platelets induced Mnk1 activation and phosphorylation of eIF4E, a downstream target of activated Mnk1 that triggers mRNA translation. Mnk1 inhibition or deletion significantly diminished protein synthesis in megakaryocytes as measured by polysome profiling and [35S]-methionine incorporation assays. Depletion of Mnk1 also reduced megakaryocyte ploidy and proplatelet forming megakaryocytes in vitro and resulted in thrombocytopenia. However, Mnk1 deletion did not affect the half-life of circulating platelets. Platelets from Mnk1 knockout mice exhibited reduced platelet aggregation, α granule secretion, and integrin αIIbβ3 activation. Ribosomal footprint sequencing indicated that Mnk1 regulates the translation of Pla2g4a mRNA (which encodes cPLA2) in megakaryocytes. Consistent with this, Mnk1 ablation reduced cPLA2 activity and thromboxane generation in platelets and megakaryocytes. In vivo, Mnk1 ablation protected against platelet-dependent thromboembolism. These results provide previously unrecognized evidence that Mnk1 regulates mRNA translation and cellular activation in platelets and megakaryocytes, endomitosis and thrombopoiesis, and thrombosis.
Exploring the partitioning of hydrophobic organic compounds between water, suspended particulate matter and diverse fish species in a German river ecosystem
Authors: Wernicke Theo , Rojo-Nieto Elisa , Paschke Albrecht , Nogueira Tavares Claudia , Brauns Mario , Jahnke Annika
Published: August 2022

Background

Bioaccumulation of hydrophobic organic compounds (HOCs) along freshwater food chains is a major environmental concern as top predators in food webs are relevant for human consumption. To characterize and manage the associated risks, considerable numbers of organisms are sampled regularly for monitoring purposes. However, ethical and financial issues call for an alternative, more generic and more robust approach for assessing the internal exposure of fish that circumvents large variability in biota sampling due to interindividual differences. Passive sampling devices (PSDs) offer a fugacity-based approach for pollutant enrichment from different abiotic environmental compartments with a subsequent estimation of bioaccumulation in fish which we explored and compared to HOC concentrations in fish as determined using traditional approaches.

Results

In this study, concentrations in silicone-based PSDs applied to the water phase and suspended particulate matter (SPM) of a river polluted with HOCs were used to estimate the concentration in model lipids at thermodynamic equilibrium with either environmental compartment. For comparison, muscle tissue of seven fish species (trophic level 1.8 to 2.8) was extracted using traditional exhaustive solvent extraction, and the lipid-normalized concentrations of HOCs were determined. The PSD-based data from SPM proved to be a more conservative estimator for HOCs accumulated in fish than those from water. Body length of the fish was found to be more suitable to describe increasing accumulation of HOCs than their trophic level as derived from stable isotope analysis and might offer a suitable alternative for future studies.

Conclusions

By combining fugacity-based sampling in the abiotic environment, translation into corresponding concentrations in model lipids and body length as an indicator for increasing bioaccumulation in fish, we present a suggestion for a robust approach that may be a meaningful addition to conventional monitoring methods. This approach potentially increases the efficiency of existing monitoring programs without the need to regularly sacrifice vertebrate species.

Graphical Abstract