bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract Number ‐ 273: Gender differences in comborbidities among acute ischemic stroke patients with heart failure and thrombolytic therapy.
Authors: Joffe Jonah , Chen Willian
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Aim: The purpose of this study is to determine risk factors that contribute to a gender difference in Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS) patients with a past medical history of heart failure(HF) excluded from recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA).

Methods

Methods: The data for this analysis was extracted from the stroke registry of a regional stroke center from January 2010 until June 2016 in Greenville, SC. Data was analyzed using the logistic regression to identify factors significantly associated with exclusion receiving rtPA therapy in the AIS‐HF patient population stratified by gender.

Results

Results:A total of 590 AIS patients with HF that presented with AIS were identified. Factorsassociated with exclusion from rtPA for males included past history of antidepressants (OR = 0.728, 95% CI, 0.264‐2.012, P < 0.541), previous history of coronary artery stenosis (OR = 0.269,95%, Cl, 0.077‐0.941, P < 0.040). Factors associated with exclusion for females included age over75(OR = 0.975, 95% CI, 0.949‐1.000, P < 0.054), and history of chronic renal failure (OR = 0.235,95% CI, 0.078‐0.708, P < 0.010).

Conclusions

Conclusion: Our study identified risk factors that can be managed to eliminate gender difference and improve the eligibly of AIS patients with a history of heart failure for thrombolytic therapy.
Abstract Number ‐ 276: Stroke Management and Outcomes in Low‐ and Lower‐Middle‐Income Countries: A Systematic Review of 29,626 Patients
Authors: Brown Nolan , Aguirre Alexander , Rodgers James , Reardon Taylor , Shlobin Nathan , Ballatori Alexander , Shahrestani Shane , Gendreau Julian
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Strokes affects almost 13 million new people each year and while the outcomes of stroke have improved over the past several decades in high income countries, the same cannot be seen in low‐ and lower‐middle‐income countries. This is the first study to identify the availability of diagnostic tools along with the rates of stroke mortality and other post‐stroke complications in the low‐and lower‐middle‐income countries.

Methods

A systematic review was completed with a search of the MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus databases with adherence to the PRISMA guidelines. Studies were included if they reported any outcomes of stroke in low‐ and lower‐middle‐income countries as designated by The World Bank classification.

Results

A total of 24 studies were included, of which seven originated from Ethiopia, three from Zambia, two from Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Iran. A single study from each of Botswana, Nigeria, Senegal, Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda, and Sierra Leone were included. Of these studies the time from symptom onset to diagnosis varied greatly (< 24 hours to 28 days). Out of 20 studies reporting, 95% stated they had access to CT/MRI. Stroke mortality rates differed greatly across included studies with in‐hospital mortality occurring between 5.0%‐35.4% and 30‐day mortality between 11.7%‐60.1%. Good clinical outcomes (mRS score 0–2) was reported by several studies and was found to have a range between 4.9%‐19.6% at 30 days.

Conclusions

A severe healthcare disparity in access to care is present in low‐ and lower‐middle‐income countries where there is delayed diagnosis of strokes leading to increased rates of poor clinical outcomes for these patients.
Abstract Number: LBA18 Tissue‐Based Perfusion Imaging in Acute Cerebral Small Vessel Disease Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Fourcand Farah , Sahito Sindhu , Bozkurt Subutay , Fourcand Farah , Vyas Shrinjay , Fleyzor Suanne , Gadallah Nancy , Panezai Spozhmy , Mehta Siddhart , Kirmani Jawad
Published: April 2023

Introduction

There is growing evidence for the role of CT perfusion in tissue‐based treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) secondary to large vessel occlusion (LVO). The utility of tissue‐based perfusion imaging in acute cerebral small vessel disease AIS may be low yield with current technology available. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of CT perfusion in identifying small lenticulostriate hypoperfusion in cerebral small vessel disease strokes.

Methods

Get With The Guidelines database was used for retrospective chart review of patients presenting to our comprehensive stroke center with small vessel disease stroke defined as subcortical or brain stem lacunar infarction < 1.5 cm. Other stroke etiologies were excluded. A tissue‐based grading system was used to identify regions of hypoperfusion ordinally ranging from 0 to 5 (1‐thalamocapsular, 1‐basal ganglia, 2‐internal capsule, 1 caudate). Two board‐certified vascular neurologists independently evaluated CT perfusion maps, and Cohen’s K was used to determine kappa inter‐rater agreement. Lesions were later confirmed with MR diffusion‐weighted imaging. Social science statistics software was used for data analysis.

Results

From April 2017 to July 2022, out of 563 patients with small vessel disease stroke, 77 patients had CT perfusion. Thirty‐nine subjects were excluded because they did not meet inclusion criteria. Mean age was 67.09 (95% CI 62.82, 71.37), and 10 subjects (31.25%) were female. and presenting NIHSS was 5.28 (95% CI 3.97, 6.58). Baseline characteristics including history of coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, diabetes mellitus including hemoglobin A1C, hypertension, hyperlipidemia including LDL, stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, tobacco use, anti‐thrombotic use, presenting systolic blood pressure, presenting blood glucose, last known normal were assessed. Three subjects received IV thrombolytics. All subjects (n = 32) had normal CT perfusion maps (kappa = 1).

Conclusions

Mismatch was not identified on CT perfusion in all subjects with small vessel disease stroke using conventional CT perfusion map protocols, that could have been useful in potentially guiding therapeutic optimization of hemodynamics. Larger, prospective studies are needed to validate our results.
Abstract Number: LBA20 Platelet Function Inhibition is superior with ticagrelor with a lower incidence of Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Fourcand Farah Y , Torres Danisette , Snyder Thomas , Vyas Shrinjay , Percival Brigitte , Gadallah Nancy , Panezai Spozhmy , Zacharatos Haralabos , Mehta Siddhart , Kirmani Jawad F
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The most common antiplatelet agents administered for neurovascular disease treatment and prevention are aspirin, clopidogrel, and ticagrelor. The utility of monitoring various platelet function assays (PFAs) in relation to neurovascular disease is unclear and variability exists in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate PFAs as a biomarker of the platelet inhibition in aspirin, clopidogrel, and ticagrelor in patients on antiplatelet agents for a broad range of neurovascular indications.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of prospectively collected data on patients who presented to our comprehensive stroke center and had PFAs drawn. PFAs utilized include Aspirin VerifyNow test, measured in aspirin resistance units (ARU) and Plavix VerifyNow test, measured in P2Y12 reaction units (PRU). Values less than 550 ARU are consistent with aspirin‐induced platelet inhibition. Similarly, values less than 197 PRU are indicative of platelet inhibition in clopidogrel or ticagrelor. Compliance and incidence of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) were assessed. Social science statistics software was used for data analysis.

Results

From January to June 2022, a total of 297 patients had platelet function assays drawn for neurovascular indications. Average age was 69.96 (95% CI 68.31, 71.61). One hundred and eighty nine subjects were on aspirin. Mean ARU was 448.73 (95% CI 438.53, 458.93). One hundred twenty three subjects were on clopidogrel. Mean PRU for clopidogrel was 162.84 (95% CI 147.33, 178.35). Fifteen subjects were on ticagrelor. Mean PRU for ticagrelor was 73.27 (95% CI 34.62, 111.91). There was a significant difference in therapeutic efficacy between clopidogrel and ticagrelor in subjects who were compliant (n = 105 clopidogrel complaint; n = 14 ticagrelor complaint) (z‐score 3.63, p‐value 0.00028). There was a significant difference between incidence of ICH in subjects compliant and therapeutic on clopidogrel as compared to ticagrelor (n = 8 clopidogrel and ICH; n = 1 ticagrelor and ICH) (Fisher value = 0.0205).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that platelet inhibition of ticagrelor may be superior to that of clopidogrel with a lower incidence of intracranial hemorrhage as a complication of therapy. Significant limitations include the discrepancy in respective sample sizes. Larger, prospective studies are needed to validate our results.
Abstract Number: LBA21 Platelet Function Assays for Aspirin and Ticagrelor are More Reliable When Compared with Clopidogrel
Authors: Fourcand Farah Y , Torres Danisette , Snyder Thomas , Vyas Shrinjay , Percival Brigitte , Gadallah Nancy , Strauss Sara , Panezai Spozhmy , Zacharatos Haralabos , Mehta Siddhart , Kirmani Jawad F
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The most common antiplatelet agents administered for neurovascular disease treatment and prevention are aspirin, clopidogrel, and ticagrelor. The utility of monitoring various platelet function assays (PFAs) in relation to neurovascular disease is unclear and variability exists in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate reliability of PFAs as a biomarker of the platelet inhibition in aspirin, clopidogrel, and ticagrelor in patients on antiplatelet agents for a broad range of neurovascular indications.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of prospectively collected data on patients who presented to our comprehensive stroke center and had PFAs drawn. PFAs utilized include Aspirin VerifyNow test, measured in aspirin resistance units (ARU) and Plavix VerifyNow test, measured in P2Y12 reaction units (PRU). Values less than 550 ARU are consistent with aspirin‐induced platelet inhibition. Similarly, values less than 197 PRU are indicative of platelet inhibition in clopidogrel or ticagrelor. Compliance and incidence of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and other adverse bleeding events were assessed. Social science statistics software was used for data analysis.

Results

From January to June 2022, a total of 297 patients had platelet function assays drawn for neurovascular indications. Average age was 69.96 (95% CI 68.31, 71.61). One hundred and eighty nine subjects were on aspirin. Mean ARU was 448.73 (95% CI 438.53, 458.93). One hundred twenty three subjects were on clopidogrel. Mean PRU for clopidogrel was 162.84 (95% CI 147.33, 178.35). Fifteen subjects were on ticagrelor. Mean PRU for ticagrelor was 73.27 (95% CI 34.62, 111.91). There was a significant difference in therapeutic platelet inhibition between clopidogrel and ticagrelor in subjects who were compliant (n = 105 clopidogrel complaint; n = 14 ticagrelor complaint) (z‐score 3.63, p‐value 0.00028). Of the patients that were compliant none had a non therapeutic platelet inhibition on aspirin and ticagrelor. Of the 123 patients that were compliant on clopidogrel 76% had non therapeutic PFA (n = 8 clopidogrel and ICH; n = 1 ticagrelor and ICH) (Fisher value = 0.0205).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that platelet inhibition of aspirin and ticagrelor may be more reliable when compared to that of clopidogrel. Significant limitations include the discrepancy in respective sample sizes. Larger studies are needed to validate our results.
Good fences make good neighbours: territorial male Cape fur seals use spatial acoustic map of neighbours
Authors: Martin M. , Gridley T. , Elwen S.H. , Charrier I.
Published: April 2023

In territorial species, individual recognition among neighbouring males is likely to reduce energy expenses and risk of injury associated with the costly period of maintaining territory during the breeding season. This study explored neighbour–stranger vocal recognition in male Cape fur seals, one of the most colonial and polygynous mammals. Playback experiments revealed that territorial males were able to recognise the calls of their neighbours, in combination with their relative spatial position to their own harem. No ‘dear-enemy’ nor ‘nasty neighbour’ effects were detected. However, the strongest responses observed were towards the calls of familiar neighbours played back from an incongruent location, simulating a situation in which a neighbour is outside its own territory. The colony structure and movements of the seals across the day could explain such results. This study has implications for understanding how vocal signals regulate interactions among males in polygynous mammals, particularly during the competitive mating period.
Bottom-Up and Top-Down Approaches to Y&C Ministry, Part 1
Authors: Barfield Robin , Crispin Gareth
Published: April 2023

Given the rise and importance of the agency of the self and more immanent approaches to theology, the landscape of youth and children’s mission and ministry can now be usefully analysed in terms of ‘top-down’ and ‘bottom-up’ approaches – rather than (or at least alongside) using ‘inside-out’ and ‘outside-in’ as the main analytical categories. Top-down approaches look to do ministry ‘to’ youth and children and are commensurate with more transcendent approaches to theology and Durkheimian structural-functionalist school of thought within sociology – these approaches risk under-emphasising agency and immanence. Bottom-up approaches are more concerned with doing ministry ‘with’ youth and children and are commensurate with more immanent approaches to theology and Weberian social interactionist and conflict theory models of society – these approaches risk over-emphasising agency and immanence.
Dendrochronological Dating of Northern Netherlandish Furniture from the Late-17th and Early-18th Centuries
Authors: van Duin Paul , Domínguez-Delmás Marta , Breebaart Iskander
Published: April 2023

Over the last 30 years, more than 70 pieces of furniture from the Rijksmuseum collection (Amsterdam, the Netherlands) have been dated using dendrochronology. Furniture from the northern Netherlands was seldom dated by the maker and never signed, and only a few documents indicating who and when it was made have survived. Here, we present an overview of the research carried out on 17th-century furniture objects from the Rijksmuseum, with a special focus on the results pertaining to marquetry cabinets produced around the 1700s. We outline the general approach followed to conduct dendrochronological research on cabinets — from the selection of elements to the interpretation of the results. On average, a cabinet consists of fifty to 100 wooden elements. In many of these elements, the end grain is not accessible, and partial dismantling may be required to access the surface and the tree-ring pattern; hence, conscious choices must be made. Seven pieces of furniture are discussed in this paper, including the first cabinet dated by dendrochronology at the Rijksmuseum (the dolls’ house commissioned by Petronella Oortman), a cabinet with inlaid Japanese lacquer panels, and furniture by Jan van Mekeren with intricate marquetry depicting large bouquets of flowers. The results of the dendrochronological research show that the oak used in these cabinets was predominantly sourced in Germany and, to a lesser extent, eastern France. The dates and provenance of the wood were cross-checked with existing art historical dates, which were then refined. The results highlight the added value of dendrochronological analyses of furniture and the contribution of this scientific method to understanding developments in cabinetmaking by chronologically arranging objects made by the same manufacturer. They also point to the need to continue developing and improving regional and local reference tree-ring chronologies to produce more accurate inferences regarding wood provenance.
Catasetum × grasineideae (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae), a new nothospecies from Brazilian Amazon and taxonomic notes for the genus
Authors: KRAHL DAYSE RAIANE PASSOS , SCHMAL PHILIPPE , CHIRON GUY , DA SILVA JOÃO BATISTA FERNANDES , KRAHL AMAURI HERBERT , CANTUÁRIA PATRICK DE CASTRO
Published: April 2023

Hybridization is a process that can occur randomly in nature between different genetically compatible species, as is observed within the genus Catasetum. Thus, this work proposes the description of a new nothospecies found in the lake of Castanho located in the municipality of Careiro Castanho. It is described, illustrated and compared with its parental species: C. gnomus and C. saccatum. In addition, information regarding the distribution, habitat and phenology as well as a key to the natural hybrids occurring in the Brazilian state of Amazonas are presented. Taxonomic notes are presented for five taxa of the genus currently treated as species that, after performing controlled pollination and germination in vitro, have proven to be in reality natural hybrids. Finally, we propose to place C. sanguineum into the synonymy of C. naso.
On the genus Thalerommata Ausserer, 1875 (Araneae, Theraphosidae), with the description of six new species
Authors: BERTANI ROGERIO , RAVEN ROBERT J.
Published: April 2023

The poorly known mygalomorph genus Thalerommata Ausserer, 1875 is redescribed and rediagnosed. Thalerommata gracilis Ausserer, 1875 (type species) and T. macella (Simon, 1903) are rediagnosed. Thalerommata meridana (Chamberlin & Ivie, 1938) is considered a nomen dubium. Six new species are described: T. squamea n. sp., T. huila n. sp., T. splendens n. sp., T. pecki n. sp., T. maculata n. sp., and T. gertschi n. sp. Thalerommata is transferred from Barychelidae to Theraphosidae and considered closely related with Trichopelma Simon, 1888, with which it shares the biserially dentate superior tarsal claws in males in combination with non-incrassate PLS. The genus is distributed from northern South-America to the Caribbean.
Peulerneca ubaira gen. et sp. nov.: A new Lernecina cricket with white and hyaline forewings from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest (Phalangopsidae, Luzarinae, Lernecina)
Authors: MELLO FRANCISCO DE ASSIS GANEO DE , SOUZA MATHEUS D’ORAN , TAVARES GUSTAVO COSTA
Published: April 2023

Here we describe a new genus and species of cricket belonging to Lernecina from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. It is presently known only from Ubaíra, State of Bahia, Brazil. The new genus is the only known member of this subtribe having males with a mostly white and hyaline dorsal field of the forewing (an additional genus with that condition is in the process of being described).
The Exact Morphology of the Species Ephemera pieli Navás, 1934 from Eastern China (Ephemeroptera: Ephemeridae)
Authors: LI MENG-YAO , DENG MU-HE , ZHOU CHANG-FA
Published: April 2023

The original description and outline figure of the mayfly Ephemera pieli Navás, 1934, were based on male subimagoes, and its morphology and taxonomic status have not been confirmed since then. However, recently collected materials from eastern China, including all stages of this mayfly, reveal several unique characteristics that indicate E. pieli is a valid species in the subgenus Ephemera (Ephemera). These characteristics include forewings with numerous dark dots, hindwings or hind wingpads with one or two distinct median dots, penes covered mostly by the subgenital plate, and the apex of the penis bluntly extended. A neotype is designated.
Studies on Neotropical crickets: Crinklyalis n. gen., a new cricket genus (Orthoptera: Phalangopsidae: Paragryllinae) from the foothills of theColombian Andes
Authors: CADENA-CASTAÑEDA OSCAR J. , GARCÍA ALEXANDER GARCÍA , CASTELLANOS MARIA DEL PILAR , TAVARES GUSTAVO COSTA
Published: April 2023

A new genus of small phalangopsids (Orthoptera: Phalangopsidae) from the foothills of the Colombian Andes is described. Crinklyalis n. gen. is distinguished from the other genera of the subtribe Strogulomorphina (Paragryllini) by the modification in the mesal region of the tegmina, apparently an acoustic chamber; reduction of wing venation; male genitalia tubular, elongated and mostly membranous, with only the distal section sclerotized. Additionally, the key for the identification of the genera of the subtribe was updated, and the morphology of the new genus was discussed, as well as distributional gaps that currently exist for the Strogulomorphina taxa.
Climate Change, Fish Production, and Maritime Piracy
Authors: Jiang Bo , LaFree Gary
Published: April 2023

Contemporary social science has produced little research on connections between climate change and crime. Nonetheless, much prior research suggests that economic insecurity may affect individual calculations of the cost and benefit of engaging in criminal behavior, and climate change is likely to have important economic consequences for professions like fishing that depend directly on the environment. In this paper, we test the possibility that climate change affects participation in maritime piracy, depending on the specific ways that it impacts regional fish production. Our analysis is based on piracy in East Africa and the South China Sea. These two regions are strategic in that both areas have experienced a large amount of piracy; however, rising sea temperatures have been associated with declines in fish production in East Africa but increases in the South China Sea. We treat sea surface temperature as an instrument for fish output and find that in East Africa higher sea surface temperature is associated with declining fish production, which in turn increases the risk of piracy, whereas in the South China Sea higher sea surface temperature is associated with increasing fish production, which in turn decreases the risk of piracy. Our results also show that decreases in fish production bring about a larger number of successful piracy attacks in East Africa and that increases in fish production are associated with fewer successful attacks in the South China Sea. We discuss the theoretical and policy implications of the findings and point out that as climate change continues, its impact on specific crimes will likely be complex, with increases and decreases depending on context.

Significance Statement

There is little evidence on the effect of climate change on criminal behavior. This study seeks to quantify the impact of a specific type of climate change—rising sea temperature—on maritime piracy, a type of crime that is linked exclusively to the ocean. The risk of piracy attacks and the probability of successful attacks are higher with declines in fish production in East Africa and lower with increases in fish production in the South China Sea. These results suggest that climate change does affect maritime piracy rates and that its effect depends on the specific situational context and the rational choices that changing sea temperatures generate.
Historical Perspectives on British Sociology’s Future: An Interview with John Scott
Authors: Crow Graham , McKie Linda , Scott John
Published: April 2023

John Scott’s career as a sociologist spans more than 50 years, during which time he has written or edited more than 40 books among a total of more than 200 publications. The breadth of his interests and his service to the discipline in various roles including as President of the British Sociological Association and chair of the Sociology sub-panel for the Research Assessment Exercise and the Research Excellence Framework make him particularly well-placed to comment on sociology’s history and its trajectories. His 2020 book British Sociology: A History presents a painstakingly researched account of the discipline’s shifting fortunes in which its practitioners have responded to intellectual opportunities and practical challenges to promote vibrant and multifaceted debate about the nature of social structures and the direction of social change. In the interview that follows he responds to questions from Graham Crow and Linda McKie to argue that knowledge of the discipline’s history has a key role to play informing today’s sociologists of the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children With Headaches: Will an App Do the Trick?
Authors: Moyes Carinna , Belaghi Reza , Webster Richard J. , Whitley Nicole , Pohl Daniela
Published: April 2023

Participants were enrolled into a pilot randomized-controlled 4-week trial comparing the efficacy and feasibility of app-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to a stretching program. Headache-related disability and quality of life were assessed using the Pediatric Migraine Disability Scale (PedMIDAS), Kidscree27, and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. Multivariable regression analysis were performed to assess the group effects in the presence of adherence and other covariates. Twenty participants completed the study. Adherence was significantly higher in the stretching than in the CBT app group (100% vs 54%, P < .034). When controlling for adherence and baseline scores, the stretching group showed greater reduction in PedMIDAS score (average: 29.2, P < .05) as compared to the CBT app group. However, in terms of the Quality-of-Life Indicators, pre- and postintervention raw scores were not significantly different between groups ( P > .05). App-based CBT was not superior to a stretching program in reducing headache-related disability in a select population of pediatric headache patients. Future studies should assess if implementing features to the CBT app, like tailoring to pediatric age groups, would improve outcomes.
Optimization towards Walker’s equation using intrinsic damage dissipation energy
Authors: Li Haoran , Li Wenqi , Xiang Zhong , Peng Yan
Published: April 2023

In this work, a fatigue stress equation associated with equivalent life is proposed based on the intrinsic damage dissipation energy. This method can be treated as an optimization towards Walker’s equation owing to the similarity between them. Compared to Walker’s equation, a modification of SWT function, the proposed equation is attached to a material parameter directly correlating with the fatigue strength exponent, which eliminates the need to conduct additional HCF experiments. The analysis of experimental results from the existing literature allowed for the comparative validation of the suggested equation with two existing equations that have wide acceptance and simplicity, namely the Goodman relationship and SWT function, which revealed a better performance of the suggested model. The proposal provides great potential for its simplicity in the evaluation of HCF lifetime under tensional fatigue loading with mean stress, further optimizing towards Walker’s equation.
A Case of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Following Pleurodesis With Talc
Authors: Samadi Takaldani Ali Hossein , Javanshir Nima , Negaresh Mohammad , Honardoost Helia
Published: April 2023

Management of malignant pleural effusion is a medical challenge, and several methods have been proposed to deal with it including thoracentesis, indwelling pleural catheter placement, and chemical or mechanical pleurodesis. Each method, however, has its advantages and disadvantages. Talc pleurodesis is generally recognized as the most effective and safest method for the induction of chemical pleurodesis. However, in rare cases, it can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In this article, we report the case of a patient with metastatic adenocarcinoma to the pleura who presents with shortness of breath and malignant pleural effusion, develops ARDS after pleurodesis with talc, and expires despite the partial improvement of lung involvement. The symptoms and causes of this rare side effect as well as the methods that can be used to deal with it are reviewed in this article.
Feasibility and Acceptability Pilot Test of Connecting Latinos en Parejas: A Couples-Based HIV Prevention Intervention for Latino Male Couples
Authors: Martinez Omar , Fernandez M. Isabel , Yang Cui , Wu Elwin , Valentin Omar , Johnson Mallory
Published: April 2023

Despite recent emphasis on couples-based HIV prevention interventions, efficacious interventions for Latino male couples have yet to be tested. The study examined the feasibility and acceptability of the Connecting Latinos en Pareja (CLP) intervention, a couples-based HIV prevention intervention for Latino male couples. This pilot demonstrated high feasibility, meeting targets for recruitment, retention, and intervention completion. We recruited a diverse cohort of 46 individuals/23 couples with a retention rate of 80% over 6 months and a 100% intervention completion rate in both conditions (four structured couple sessions in each condition). This pilot RCT was not powered to detect significant intervention impact on the primary outcome; however, there was a significant increase in relationship functioning among couples in the intervention group relative to controls and promising trends in changes in several key outcome and mediating variables. Secondary analysis documented trends in the expected directions for several other key hypothesized mechanisms of action (stimulant use, psychological symptoms, quality of life) as well as the primary outcome of proportion of protected sex acts (overall and broken out by main vs. outside partners). Qualitative exit interviews revealed high levels of acceptability of the CLP intervention. Participants highlighted affective component of the intervention and perceived effectiveness in improving dyadic communication skills and safer sex practices. Our findings show that a pilot trial of CLP is highly feasible and acceptable, with CLP demonstrating promising evidence of changes in key intervention mechanisms.
BODIPY-based fluorescent sensors for detection of explosives
Authors: Nguyen Yen Thi , Shin Seunghan , Kwon Kiok , Kim Namdoo , Bae Se Won
Published: April 2023

The detecting and screening of explosives has become a global consideration in dealing with potential terrorism threats and the misuse of high explosives. Several detection techniques have been developed, but their disadvantages include the requirement of expensive equipment, complicated pre-treatment, and prolonged testing. So far, fluorescence-based sensors have been of great interest as they overcome the limitations of other techniques. BODIPY, which is a fluorophore, shows excellent fluorescence features, and it can be used as a sensor material for explosives detection. However, to date, BODIPY-based explosive sensors have not been explored in detail. This work reviews the recent developments on explosive sensors based on BODIPY and its analogs.
Clinical benefits and risks of anticoagulation therapy according to the degree of chronic kidney disease in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Cho Min Soo , Choi Hyung Oh , Hwang Ki Won , Kim Jun , Nam Gi-Byoung , Choi Kee-Joon
Published: April 2023

Background

The clinical benefits and risks of anticoagulation therapy in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are still inconclusive. We describe the outcomes of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) after anticoagulation therapy according to differences in creatinine clearance (CrCl). We also aimed to determine the patients who could benefit from anticoagulation therapy.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational review of patients with AF who were managed at Asan Medical Center (Seoul, Korea) between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2018. Patients were categorized into groups according to their baseline CrCl by Cockcroft–Gault equation and their outcomes were evaluated (CKD 1, ≥ 90 mL/min; CKD2, 60–89 mL/min; CKD3, 30–59 mL/min; CKD4, 15–29 mL/min; CKD 5, < 15 mL/min). The primary outcome was NACE (net adverse clinical events), defined as a composite of all-cause mortality, thromboembolic events, and major bleeding.

Results

We identified 12,714 consecutive patients with AF (mean 64.6 ± 11.9 years, 65.3% male, mean CHA2DS2-VASc score 2.4 ± 1.6 points) between 2006 and 2017. In patients receiving anticoagulation therapy (n = 4447, 35.0%), warfarin (N = 3768, 84.7%) was used more frequently than NOACs (N = 673, 15.3%). There was a higher 3-year rate of NACE with renal function deterioration (14.8%, 18.6%, 30.3%, 44.0%, and 48.8% for CKD stages 1–5, respectively).The clinical benefit of anticoagulation therapy was most prominent in patients with CKD 1 (hazard ratio [HR] 0.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.37–0.67), 2 (HR 0.64 CI 0.54–0.76), and 3 (HR 0.64 CI 0.54–0.76), but not in CKD 4 (HR 0.86, CI 0.57–1.28) and 5 (HR 0.81, CI 0.47–1.40). Among patients with CKD, the benefit of anticoagulation therapy was only evident in those with a high risk of embolism (CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥ 4, HR 0.25, CI 0.08–0.80).

Conclusion

Advanced CKD is associated with a higher risk of NACE. The clinical benefit of anticoagulation therapy was reduced with the increasing CKD stage.
Ambulance referral of more than 2 hours could result in a high prevalence of medical-device-related pressure injuries (MDRPIs) with characteristics different from some inpatient settings: a descriptive observational study
Authors: Luo Zhenyu , Liu Sihui , Yang Linhe , Zhong Shuyan , Bai Lihua
Published: April 2023

Background

Medical device-related pressure injuries(MDRPI) are prevalent and attracting more attention. During ambulance transfer, the shear force caused by braking and acceleration; extensive medical equipment crowed in a narrow space add external risk factors for MDRPIs. However, there is insufficient research on the relationship between MDRPIs and ambulance transfers. This study aims to clarify the prevalence and characteristics of MDRPI during ambulance transfer.

Method

A descriptive observational study was conducted with convenience sampling. Before starting the study, six PI specialist nurses certified by the Chinese Nursing Association trained emergency department nurses for three MDRPI and Braden Scale sessions, one hour for each session. Data and images of PIs and MDRPIs are uploaded via the OA system by emergency department nurses and reviewed by these six specialist nurses. The information collection begins on 1 July 2022 and ends on 1 August 2022. Demographic and clinical characteristics and a list of medical devices were collected by emergency nurses using a screening form developed by researchers.

Results

One hundred one referrals were eventually included. The mean age of participants was (58.3 ± 11.69) years, predominantly male (67.32%, n = 68), with a mean BMI of 22.48 ± 2.2. The mean referral time among participants was 2.26 ± 0.26 h, the mean BRADEN score was 15.32 ± 2.06, 53.46% (n = 54) of participants were conscious, 73.26% (n = 74) were in the supine position, 23.76% (n = 24) were in the semi-recumbent position, and only 3 (2.9%) were in the lateral position. Eight participants presented with MDRPIs, and all MDRPIs are stage 1. Patients with spinal injuries are most prone to MDRPIs (n = 6). The jaw is the area most prone to MDRPIs, caused by the cervical collar (40%, n = 4), followed by the heel (30%, n = 3) and nose bridge (20%, n = 2) caused by the respiratory devices and spinal board.

Conclusion

MDRPIs are more prevalent during long ambulance referrals than in some inpatient settings. The characteristics and related high-risk devices are also different. The prevention of MDRPIs during ambulance referrals deserves more research.
High leukocyte mitochondrial DNA copy number contributes to poor prognosis in breast cancer patients
Authors: Zhang Wenzhe , Lin Songping , Zeng Bangwei , Chen Xiaobin , Chen Lili , Chen Minyan , Guo Wenhui , Lin Yuxiang , Yu Liuwen , Hou Jialin , Li Yan , Li Shengmei , Jin Xuan , Cai Weifeng , Zhang Kun , Nie Qian , Chen Hanxi , Li Jing , He Peng , Cai Qindong , Qiu Yibin , Wang Chuan , Fu Fangmeng
Published: April 2023

Background

Compelling evidence has indicated a significant association between leukocyte mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) and prognosis of several malignancies in a cancer-specific manner. However, whether leukocyte mtDNAcn can predict the clinical outcome of breast cancer (BC) patients has not been well investigated.

Methods

The mtDNA copy number of peripheral blood leukocytes from 661 BC patients was measured using a Multiplex AccuCopy™Kit based on a multiplex fluorescence competitive PCR principle. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards regression model were applied to investigate the association of mtDNAcn with invasive disease-free survival (iDFS), distant disease-free survival (DDFS), breast cancer special survival (BCSS), and overall survival (OS) of patients. The possible mtDNAcn-environment interactions were also evaluated by the Cox proportional hazard regression models.

Results

BC patients with higher leukocyte mtDNA-CN exhibited a significantly worse iDFS than those with lower leukocyte mtDNAcn (5-year iDFS: fully-adjusted model: HR = 1.433[95%CI 1.038–1.978], P = 0.028). Interaction analyses showed that mtDNAcn was significantly associated with hormone receptor status (adjusted p for interaction: 5-year BCSS: 0.028, 5-year OS: 0.022), so further analysis was mainly in the HR subgroup. Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that mtDNAcn was an independent prognostic factor for both BCSS and OS in HR-positive patients (HR+: 5-year BCSS: adjusted HR (aHR) = 2.340[95% CI 1.163–4.708], P = 0.017 and 5-year OS: aHR = 2.446 [95% CI 1.218–4.913], P = 0.011).

Conclusions

For the first time, our study demonstrated that leukocyte mtDNA copy number might influence the outcome of early-stage breast cancer patients depending on intrinsic tumor subtypes in Chinese women.
Screening of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder among preschool children Gharbia Governorate, Egypt
Authors: Younis Eman Ali , Shalaby Safynaz El Saied , Abdo Sanaa Abd El‐fatah
Published: April 2023

Background

Children who experience mental health issues, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), experience significant distress and impairment at home, at school, and in the community. Without adequate care or prevention, this frequently results in adulthood-long distress and impairment at large societal costs. Determining the prevalence of ADHD cases among preschoolers as well as some associated maternal and child risk factors was the aim of this study.

Methods

An analytical cross-sectional study including 1048 preschool children aged 3–6 years was carried out in Tanta City, Gharbia Governorate. From March to April 2022, a proportionate stratified cluster random sample of them was picked. Data were gathered using a predesigned instrument that included sociodemographic information, family history, maternal and child risk factors, and the Arabic version of the ADHD Rating Scale IV questionnaire.

Results

The prevalence of ADHD among preschoolers was 10.5%. The inattention type was the most common (5.3%), followed by the hyperactivity type (3.4%). There were statistically significant associations regarding positive family history of psychological and neurological symptoms (17.9% positive vs. 9.7% negative), family history of ADHD symptoms (24.5% positive vs. 9.4% negative), active smoking by the mother (21.1% positive vs. 5.3% negative), cesarean section delivery (66.4% positive vs. 53.9% negative), elevated blood pressure during pregnancy (19.1% positive vs. 12.4% negative), and history of taking drugs during pregnancy (43.6% positive vs. 31.7% negative). Significant child risk factors were: exposure to any source containing lead that causes slow poisoning (25.5% positive vs. 12.3% negative), children with cardiac health problems (38.2% positive vs. 16.6% negative), and hours spent by a child in front of the TV or mobile phone (any screens) per day (60.0% of those with positive screening spent more than 2 h/day vs. 45.7% negative).

Conclusion

In the Gharbia governorate, 10.5% of preschoolers suffer from ADHD. Significant maternal risk factors for ADHD included a positive family history of psychiatric and neurological symptoms, a family history of ADHD symptoms, active maternal smoking, caesarean section delivery, increased blood pressure during pregnancy, and a history of drug use during pregnancy. Youngsters who had cardiac health issues and who spent more time each day watching TV or using a mobile device (screen use) were at substantial risk.
Up-regulation of CREB-1 regulates tendon adhesion in the injury tendon healing through the CREB-1/TGF-β3 signaling pathway
Authors: Wu Li-Ming , Wang Yun-Jiao , Li Shuai-Feng , Wang Jing-Kun , Liu Jun , Fan Chao-Chao , Xiong Yan
Published: April 2023

Aim

To explore the mechanism of the healing of tendon tissue and anti-adhesion, and to discuss the role of the transforming growth factor-β3 (TGF-β3)/cAMP response element binding protein-1 (CREB-1) signaling pathway in the healing process of tendons.

Method

All mice were divided into four groups of 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks respectively. Each time group was divided into four treatment groups: the amplification group, the inhibition group, the negative group, and the control group. When the tendon injury model was established, the CREB-1 virus was injected into the tendon injury parts. A series of methods such as gait behaviourism, anatomy, histological examination, immunohistochemical examination and collagen staining were employed to assess the tendon healing and the protein expression of TGF-β3, CREB-1, Smad3/7 and type I/III collagen (COL-I/III). CREB-1 virus was sent to tendon stem cells to assess the protein expression of TGF-β1, TGF-β3, CREB-1, COL-I/III by methods such as immunohistochemistry and Western blot.

Results

The amplification group showed better gait behaviourism than the inhibition group in the healing process. The amplification group also had less adhesion than the negative group. Hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining of tendon tissue sections showed that the number of fibroblasts in the amplification group was less than the inhibition group, and the immunohistochemical results indicated that the expression of TGF-β3, CREB-1, and Smad7 at each time point was higher than the inhibition group. The expression of COL-I/III and Smad3 in the amplification group was lower than the inhibition group at all time points. The collagen staining indicated that the ratio of type I/III collagen in the amplification group was higher than the negative group at 2,4,8 week. The CREB-1 amplification virus could promote the protein expression of TGF-β3, CREB-1 and inhibit the protein expression of TGF-β1 and COL-I/III in the tendon stem cells.

Conclusion

In the process of tendon injury healing, CREB-1 could promote the secretion of TGF-β3, so as to promote the tendon healing and have the effect of anti-adhesion in tendons. It might provide new intervention targets for anti-adhesion treatment of tendon injuries.
The relationship between nurses’ psychological resilience and job satisfaction during the COVID-19 pandemic: a descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study in Iran
Authors: Shahrbabaki Parvin Mangolian , Abolghaseminejad Parniya , lari Leyla Ahmadi , Zeidabadinejad Somayeh , Dehghan Mahlagha
Published: April 2023

Background

Job satisfaction and factors affecting them are among the most important social issues. Resilience has a moderating role in the relationship between stress and diseases, so it can affect a person's job satisfaction because it enables a person to deal with adverse conditions. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between nurses’ psychological resilience and job satisfaction during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Methods

This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study (2022) used convenience sampling to select 300 nurses. The Connor and Davidson Resilience Scale and Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire were used to collect data. The data were then analyzed with SPSS 22 and statistical methods (Independent t-test, Analysis of Variance, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Multiple linear regression).

Results

The study results showed a positive and poor relationship between resilience, some of its dimensions (trust in individual instincts, tolerance of negative affect (p = 0.006), positive acceptance of change and secure relationships (p = 0.01), spiritual influences (p = 0.04)) and job satisfaction (p < 0.001). In other words, nurses’ high level of resilience increased their job satisfaction and vice versa.

Conclusions

Enhancing the resilience of frontline nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic improved their job satisfaction and affected care provided by them. Nurse managers can control nurses’ resilience and offer interventions that would strengthen it, especially at crises.
Parental help-seeking behaviour for, and care of, a sick or injured child during the COVID-19 pandemic: a European online survey
Authors: Tan Chantal D. , Bressan Silvia , Carter Rachel , Hylén Mia , Kristensson Inger , Lakhanpaul Monica , Mintegi Santiago , Moll Henriette A. , Neill Sarah
Published: April 2023

Background

Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on patients and healthcare systems. A decline in paediatric visits to healthcare settings was observed, which might have been due to lower incidence of injury and infectious illness, changes in healthcare services and parental concern. The aim of our study was to examine parental experiences of help-seeking for, and care of, a sick or injured child during COVID-19 lockdown periods in five European countries with different healthcare systems in place.

Methods

An online survey for parents with a child with any kind or illness of injury during COVID-19 lockdowns was circulated through social media in five European countries: Italy, Spain, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Parents living in one of these countries with self-identification of a sick or injured child during COVID-19 lockdown periods were eligible to fill in the survey. Descriptive statistics were used for the level of restrictions per country, children’s characteristics, family characteristics and reported help-seeking behaviour of parents prior to the lockdown and their real experience during the lockdown. The free text data was subjected to thematic analysis.

Results

The survey was fully completed by 598 parents, ranging from 50 to 198 parents per country, during varying lockdown periods from March 2020 until May 2022. Parents who completed the survey were not deterred from seeking medical help for their sick or injured child during the COVID-19 pandemic. This finding was comparable in five European countries with different healthcare systems in place. Thematic analysis identified three main areas: parental experiences of access to healthcare, changes in parents’ help-seeking behaviours for a sick or injured child during lockdowns, and the impact of caring for a sick or injured child during the lockdowns. Parents reported limited access to non-urgent care services and were anxious about either their child or themselves catching COVID-19.

Conclusion

This insight into parental perspectives of help-seeking behaviour and care for a sick or injured child during COVID-19 lockdowns could inform future strategies to improve access to healthcare, and to provide parents with adequate information concerning when and where to seek help and support during pandemics.