bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and efficacy of endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) for patients aged 80 years and older
Authors: Niwa Hideyuki , Oki Masahide , Ishii Yurika , Torii Atsushi , Yamada Arisa , Shinohara Yuka , Kogure Yoshihito , Saka Hideo
Published: May 2022

Background

The safety and efficacy of endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) in patients aged 70 years and older has been established. However, few studies have evaluated the safety, usefulness, and significance of EBUS‐TBNA in patients aged 80 years and older.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated patients aged 80 years and older who underwent EBUS‐TBNA under local anesthesia. The study period was 10 years; from November 1, 2010 to October 31, 2020. The primary endpoint was the safety of EBUS‐TBNA, which was measured as the incidence of complications associated with the procedure. The secondary endpoints were the overall diagnostic rate, malignant disease diagnosis rate, and malignant disease treatment rate.

Results

A total of 111 patients were enrolled in the study, and the median age was 82 years (range: 80–89 years). The incidence of complications (the primary endpoint) was 5% (5/111) and comprised oversedation in one case, chest pain in one case, hypoxemia in two cases, and arrhythmia in one case. Regarding the secondary endpoints, the diagnostic rate for all patients was 75% (83/111), and the diagnostic rate of malignant disease was 89% (75/84). Of the 75 patients with malignant disease diagnosed with EBUS‐TBNA, 61 (81%) received tumor‐specific therapy in accordance with their diagnoses.

Conclusion

EBUS‐TBNA can be considered safe and effective even in patients aged 80 years and older.
Genetic architectures and selection signatures of body height in Chinese indigenous donkeys revealed by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Liu Yu , Li Haijing , Wang Min , Zhang Xinhao , Yang Li , Zhao Chunjiang , Wu Changxin
Published: May 2022

Donkeys are widely distributed labour animals in the world. During the process of the domestication and artificial selection of domestic donkeys, body sizes show significant differences among different breeds of donkeys. Based on the genome resequencing data of 103 Chinese indigenous donkeys from 11 breeds (Biyang, Dezhou, Guangling, Hetian, Jiami, Kulun, Qingyang, Turfan, Tibetan, Xinjiang, and Yunnan), seven Spanish donkeys from two breeds (Zamorano~Leonés and Andalusian), and three wild donkeys, we investigated the population structures of Chinese domestic donkeys with different body sizes. We used FST and XP‐EHH analyses to explore the selected regions related to body sizes. The results showed that Chinese indigenous donkeys have a closer relationship with African wild donkeys than with Asian wild donkeys. LCORL/NCAPG, FAM184B, TBX3, and IHH were identified as genes with strong signals in analysis of selection signature (FST and XP‐EHH) in large and small donkeys. The seven identified variants can be served as candidate loci affecting the body size of Chinese donkeys. Five of seven loci were located in intron 9 of FAM184B and were in a haplotype block, and one of the identified variants (Chr03:112664848) located in the CDS region of the LCORL gene was found to cause stop‐loss. These candidate genes and variants shed new light on the molecular basis of donkey body size and will facilitate the breeding activities of donkeys.
Preoperative hyponatremia and survival after left ventricular assist device implantation
Authors: Lamba Harveen K. , Parikh Umang M. , Vincent Justin , Civitello Andrew B. , Nair Ajith , Bhardwaj Anju , Senussi Mourad H. , Loor Gabriel , Shafii Alexis E. , Liao Kenneth K. , Chatterjee Subhasis
Published: May 2022

Background

Hyponatremia is associated with adverse outcomes in heart failure and after cardiac surgery. We hypothesized that hyponatremia is associated with poorer short‐term and longer term survival in patients after continuous‐flow left ventricular assist device (CF‐LVAD) placement.

Methods

We reviewed a single‐center database of patients who received a CF‐LVAD during 2012–2017. Sodium (Na) values obtained within 14 days before CF‐LVAD insertion were averaged; patients (n = 332) were divided into hyponatremia (mean Na <135 mEq/L; n = 160; 48.2%) and normonatremia groups (mean Na 135–145 mEq/L; n = 172; 51.8%). Patients requiring preoperative dialysis or pump exchange were excluded. We compared outcomes between preoperative hyponatremia and normonatremia groups.

Results

The two groups’ baseline characteristics were similar, although hyponatremia patients more often had preoperative mechanical circulatory support (44.4% vs. 31.4%, p = 0.002). Although hyponatremic and normonatremic patients did not differ in 30‐day mortality (7.5% vs. 6.5%, p = 0.7), preoperative hyponatremia was associated with greater 5‐year mortality (61% vs. 44%, p = 0.03). On binary logistic regression analysis, the strongest independent predictors of late mortality were hyponatremia (odds ratio [OR] 1.88, 95% CI [1.07–3.31], p = 0.02), older age (OR 1.03, 95% CI [1.01–1.05], p = 0.01), and elevated mean right atrial pressure/pulmonary capillary wedge pressure ratio (OR 4.69, 95% CI [1.76–12.47], p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Hyponatremia was not associated with greater early mortality but was associated with poorer late survival. The optimal timing of LVAD implantation in relation to hyponatremia, and whether correcting hyponatremia perioperatively improves long‐term survival, should be investigated.
Effect of the bileaflet inlet valve angle on the flow of a pediatric ventricular assist device: Experimental analysis
Authors: Lemos Bernardo Luiz Harry Diniz , Bortolin Vítor Augusto Andreghetto , Amaral Rodrigo de Lima , Mazzetto Marcelo , Cestari Idágene Aparecida , Meneghini Julio Romano
Published: May 2022

Background

Mechanical heart valves (MHV) and its fluid dynamics inside a pulsatile pediatric ventricular assist device (PVAD) can be associated with blood degradation. In this article, flow structures are analyzed and compared by an experimental investigation on the effect of bileaflet MHV positioned at varying angles in the inlet port orifice of a PVAD.

Methods

Time‐resolved particle image velocimetry was applied to characterize the internal flow of the device. St Jude Medical bileaftlet valves were used on the inlet orifice and positioned at 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° in relation to the centerline of the device. Three planes with bidimensional velocity magnitude fields were considered in the analysis with visualization of diastolic jets, device wall washing patterns and flow circulation during emptying or systole of the pump. Also, the washing vortex area, and vertical velocity probabilities of regurgitant flows in the inlet valve were evaluated.

Results

The results show that a variation in the angle of the MHV at the inlet port produced distinct velocities, fluid structures, and regurgitant flow probabilities within the device. MHV positioned at an angle of 0° generated the strongest inlet jet, larger vortex area during filling, more prominent outgoing flow, and less regurgitation compared to the angles studied. The presence of unfavorable fluid structures, such as small vortices, and/or sudden flow structure interruption, and/or regurgitation, were identified at 45° and 90° angles.

Conclusions

The 0° inlet angle had better outcomes than other angles due to its consistency in the multiple parameters analyzed.
Creating a creative state of mind: Promoting creativity through proactive vitality management and mindfulness
Authors: Op den Kamp Emma M. , Tims Maria , Bakker Arnold B. , Demerouti Evangelia
Published: May 2022

Most research on employee creativity has been focused on relatively distal antecedents, such as personality or job characteristics, which has resulted in top‐down organizational approaches to promote employee creativity. However, such approaches overlook the self‐regulating potential of employees and may not explain intraindividual fluctuations in creativity. In the present research, we build on proactive motivation theory to examine how employees may promote their own creativity on a daily basis through the use of proactive vitality management (PVM). To better understand the PVM‐creativity link, we zoom in on this process by examining the role of mindfulness as an underlying mechanism. In two daily diary studies, employees from the United States (N = 133 persons, n = 521 data points) and the creative industry in Germany (N = 62 persons, n = 232 data points) reported on their use of PVM and states of mindfulness for five consecutive workdays. Additionally, participants completed a daily creativity test (brainstorming task) in Study 1, whereas supervisors rated participants' daily creative work performance in Study 2. In both studies, multilevel analyses showed that daily PVM was positively related to creative performance through daily mindfulness, supporting our hypotheses. These replicated findings suggest that individuals may bring themselves in a cognitive, creative state of mind on a daily basis, emphasizing the importance of proactive behavior in the creative process.
The earliest metal in western Tibet: Evidence from the Gepa Serul cemetery
Authors: Cao Kun , Zhangsun Yingzi , Xian Yiheng , Yu Chun , Shargan Wangdue
Published: May 2022

The earliest copperwares excavated in western Tibet to date were found in the Gepa Serul cemetery in Zanda county, Ngari prefecture, Tibet, China, which can be dated to c.3600–3000 bp. This significant archaeological discovery provides valuable materials for the study of early metallurgy in prehistoric Tibet. This research applies scientific methods involving scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS), X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), optical microscopy (OM) and multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC‐ICP‐MS) to carry out analyses on the components, microstructures and Pb isotope ratios of Gepa Serul Phase I copperwares. The results show that their alloy types contain both pure copper and arsenic copper, the latter of which has not previously been recovered from archaeological contexts in Tibet. These artefacts were produced primarily by forging, supplemented by casting. Lead isotope analysis (LIA) reveals that the copper ores used most likely came from multiple sources, some of which may be local to the Tibet area. The Pb isotope values of the copperwares from Gepa Serul Phase I are very similar to those from the Sam Dzong cemetery in Nepal, implying that the metal resources used by the two sites are likely to be correlated.
Anticipatory state identity: Understanding the Finnish state's approach to the Arctic
Authors: Ferdoush Md Azmeary , Väätänen Vesa
Published: May 2022

This paper is an intervention on the understanding of state identity in relation to (anticipatory) changes that have occurred, are taking place, and are expected to happen in the Arctic. Focusing specifically on the Finnish state's approach to the Arctic, we offer the concept of ‘anticipatory state identity’ in order to comprehend the role of ‘anticipation’ in developing and projecting a ‘state identity.’ In so doing, we argue that what drives Finland's vision to project itself to be(come) an ‘Arctic state’ is fuelled not only by placing a firm foothold in a region of increasing geopolitical importance but also by a consensus among wide‐ranging actors in prioritising Finnish Arcticness in its foreign policy. As such, we first shed light on the concept of ‘anticipatory state identity.’ Then we discuss the global and regional shifts that eventually drove Finland to focus on its Arcticness. Third, we delve into the components and enactments through which Finland projects its Arctic identity. Finally, we conclude that anticipatory state identity bridges the gap between a state's imagination of itself in the future and how such imaginations are materialised and embedded within state policies through a repetitive deployment of narratives and discourses by numerous practitioners in the present. Accordingly, the applicability of the concept moves beyond the Arctic context as it enables reading of (re)forming state identity in line with its anticipatory vision.
Cities of neurodiversity: New directions for an urban geography of neurodiversity
Authors: Kenna Therese
Published: May 2022

This paper calls for a research agenda that attends to neurodiversity in the city. I argue for the need to better understand the variety of lived urban experiences of those who identify as neurodiverse and for these voices to be integrated into urban planning and policy. This argument is made in response to the limited research within geography and urban studies on neurodiversity. This paper will consider the significance of recognising and researching the multiplicity of neurodiversity in the city, especially as there are emerging initiatives for autism‐friendly cities, which require research attention and critique. This paper illustrates how appreciating the significance of neurologically diverse encounters, practices, and behaviours in cities is essential for including and accommodating neurodiversity in the city. Using theoretical framings of feminist geography, I argue for the use of intersectionality as an analytical tool to progress this research agenda, together with the use of embodied, experiential, and even multi‐sensory research methods, allowing carefully considered contributions to urban planning and policy, as well as discourse on caring and restorative cities.
A Cross-Validation Statistical Framework for Asymmetric Data Integration
Authors: Tran Lam , He Kevin , Wang Di , Jiang Hui
Published: May 2022

The proliferation of biobanks and large public clinical data sets enables their integration with a smaller amount of locally gathered data for the purposes of parameter estimation and model prediction. However, public data sets may be subject to context-dependent confounders and the protocols behind their generation are often opaque; naively integrating all external data sets equally can bias estimates and lead to spurious conclusions. Weighted data integration is a potential solution, but current methods still require subjective specifications of weights and can become computationally intractable. Under the assumption that local data are generated from the set of unknown true parameters, we propose a novel weighted integration method based upon using the external data to minimize the local data leave-one-out cross validation (LOOCV) error. We demonstrate how the optimization of LOOCV errors for linear and Cox proportional hazards models can be rewritten as functions of external data set integration weights. Significant reductions in estimation error and prediction error are shown using simulation studies mimicking the heterogeneity of clinical data as well as a real-world example using kidney transplant patients from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients.
Haematopoietic stem cell gene therapy in inborn errors of metabolism
Authors: Chiesa Robert , Bernardo Maria Ester
Published: May 2022

Over the last 30 years, allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) has been adopted as a therapeutic strategy for many inborn errors of metabolism (IEM), due to the ability of donor‐derived cells to provide life‐long enzyme delivery to deficient tissues and organs. However, (a) the clinical benefit of allo‐HSCT is limited to a small number of IEM, (b) patients are left with a substantial residual disease burden and (c) allo‐HSCT is still associated with significant short‐ and long‐term toxicities and transplant‐related mortality. Haematopoietic stem/progenitor cell gene therapy (HSPC‐GT) was established in the 1990s for the treatment of selected monogenic primary immunodeficiencies and over the past few years, its use has been extended to a number of IEM. HSPC‐GT is particularly attractive in neurodegenerative IEM, as gene corrected haematopoietic progenitors can deliver supra‐physiological enzyme levels to difficult‐to‐reach areas, such as the brain and the skeleton, with potential increased clinical benefit. Moreover, HSPC‐GT is associated with reduced morbidity and mortality compared to allo‐HSCT, although this needs to be balanced against the potential risk of insertional mutagenesis. The number of clinical trials in the IEM field is rapidly increasing and some HSPC‐GT products recently received market approval. This review describes the development of ex vivo HSPC‐GT in a number of IEM, with a focus on recent results from GT clinical trials and risks versus benefits considerations, when compared to established therapeutic strategies, such as allo‐HSCT.
Risk of severe late toxicity after radiotherapy following radical prostatectomy – a nationwide study
Authors: Braide Karin , Kindblom Jon , Thellenberg Karlsson Camilla , Stattin Pär , Hugosson Jonas , Månsson Marianne
Published: May 2022

Objective

To estimate the long‐term risks of severe late toxicities for radiation therapy (RT) following radical prostatectomy (RP) in an unselected nationwide cohort, as severe side‐effects are rare but may occur years later.

Patients and Methods

The study population comprised all men undergoing RP between 1997 and 2016 in the Prostate Cancer database Sweden (PCBaSe) (n = 40 962). By (1:2) matching, two cohorts were created: 2789 men exposed to postoperative RT and 5578 unexposed men with comparable age, comorbidities, and year of surgery. Cumulative incidences and rate ratios were calculated for the following outcomes: symptoms and interventions of the urinary or intestinal tract demanding inpatient care, secondary malignancies, and non‐prostate cancer mortality.

Results

The largest differences were seen for late toxicities affecting the urinary tract. The 10‐year cumulative incidences among those exposed to postoperative RT vs the RP‐only group were: 17.8% vs 10.5% for procedures of the urinary tract (difference 7.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.4 to 10.3; relative risk [RR] 1.74, 95% CI 1.47 to 2.05); 6.0% vs 1.2% for haematuria (difference 4.8%, 95% CI 3.1 to 6.5; RR 6.50, 95% CI 4.31 to 10.10); and 2.4% vs 1.1% for bladder cancer (difference 1.4%, 95% CI 0.4 to 2.3; RR 2.71, 95% CI 1.72 to 4.33). The groups were similar regarding intestinal toxicity, other secondary malignancies, and non‐prostate cancer mortality. Adjustments for preoperative tumour risk factors did not importantly affect the rate ratios.

Conclusion

Severe late toxicity after postoperative RT following RP predominately affects the bladder and can appear many years after RT.
Positive feedback regulation of lncRNA TPT1‐AS1 and ITGB3 promotes cell growth and metastasis in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Cheng Chundong , Liu Danxi , Liu Zonglin , Li Mengyang , Wang Yongwei , Sun Bei , Kong Rui , Chen Hua , Wang Gang , Li Le , Hu Jisheng , Li Yilong , Chen Hongze , Zhao Zhongjie , Zhang Tao , Zhu Siqiang , Pan Shangha
Published: May 2022

Emerging evidence has indicated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are potential biomarkers and play crucial roles in cancer development. However, the functions and underlying mechanisms of lncRNA TPT1‐AS1 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain elusive. RNAseq data of PDAC tissues and normal tissues were analyzed, and lncRNAs which were associated with PDAC prognosis were identified. The clinical relevance of TPT1‐AS1 for PDAC patients was explored, and the effects of TPT1‐AS1 in PDAC progression were investigated in vitro and in vivo. LncRNA TPT1‐AS1 was highly expressed in PDAC, and high TPT1‐AS1 levels predicted a poor prognosis. Moreover, functional experiments revealed that TPT1‐AS1 promoted pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, TPT1‐AS1 functioned as an endogenous sponge for miR‐30a‐5p, which increased integrin β3 (ITGB3) level in pancreatic cancer cells. Conversely, our data revealed that ITGB3 could activate the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), which in turn bound directly to the TPT1‐AS1 promoter and affected the expression of TPT1‐AS1, thus forming a positive feedback loop with TPT1‐AS1. Taken together, our results uncovered a reciprocal loop of TPT1‐AS1 and ITGB3 which contributed to pancreatic cancer growth and development, and indicated that TPT1‐AS1 might serve as a novel potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for PDAC patients.
Role of EMT in the DNA damage response, double‐strand break repair pathway choice and its implications in cancer treatment
Authors: Moyret‐Lalle Caroline , Prodhomme Mélanie K. , Burlet Delphine , Kashiwagi Ayaka , Petrilli Virginie , Puisieux Alain , Seimiya Hiroyuki , Tissier Agnès
Published: May 2022

Numerous epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) characteristics have now been demonstrated to participate in tumor development. Indeed, EMT is involved in invasion, acquisition of stem cell properties, and therapy‐associated resistance of cancer cells. Together, these mechanisms offer advantages in adapting to changes in the tumor microenvironment. However, recent findings have shown that EMT‐associated transcription factors (EMT‐TFs) may also be involved in DNA repair. A better understanding of the coordination between the DNA repair pathways and the role played by some EMT‐TFs in the DNA damage response (DDR) should pave the way for new treatments targeting tumor‐specific molecular vulnerabilities, which result in selective destruction of cancer cells. Here we review recent advances, providing novel insights into the role of EMT in the DDR and repair pathways, with a particular focus on the influence of EMT on cellular sensitivity to damage, as well as the implications of these relationships for improving the efficacy of cancer treatments.
Habitat suitability of neotenic net‐winged beetles (Coleoptera: Lycidae) in China using combined ecological models, with implications for biological conservation
Authors: Liu Tong , Liu Haoyu , Tong Junbo , Yang Yuxia
Published: May 2022

Aim

China has dozens of well‐recognized biodiversity hotspots, but many more potential areas have not been estimated thoroughly, which is unfavourable for biodiversity conservation. Neotenic net‐winged beetles with limited dispersal ability generally occur in restricted ranges but rarely occur in China, which makes them ideal models for biogeographical studies to define biodiversity hotspots. This study will explore the potential distribution patterns of neotenic Lycidae in China to provide basic data for the implementation of biological conservation.

Location

China.

Methods

We conducted maximum entropy (MaxEnt) and random forest (RF) modelling to simulate the habitat suitability for neotenic Lycidae occurring in China under different climate scenarios by using all available distribution information in Southeast Asia (a total of 305 occurrence records) and several environmental variables. The dynamic changes in the potentially suitable habitats and centroids of neotenic Lycidae were simulated under all climate scenarios.

Results

The results indicated that potentially suitable habitats for neotenic Lycidae were mostly located in the montane areas and mountainous islands in southern China, including the eastern Himalayas, Gaoligong Mountains, Ailao Mountains, Hengduan Mountains, Wumeng Mountains, Miaoling Mountains, Daba Mountains, Wu Mountains, Yunkai Mountains, Wuzhi Mountains and Central Mountains. In addition, the dynamic analyses showed that their changes also occurred in montane areas, whose affinity and significance were confirmed in the biological conservation.

Main conclusions

Taking the unique neotenic Lycidae as the subject, we verify that several montane areas are biodiversity hotspots that have already been well‐recognized, while it is determined that some additional mountains could be potential hotspots. Therefore, more attention and biological conservation efforts should be used in these areas. In addition, using the ensemble modelling approach to identify potential distributions is a helpful tool to develop strategies for biological conservation, even if it has several limitations.
Glycerol fermentation by skin bacteria generates lactic acid and upregulates the expression levels of genes associated with the skin barrier function
Authors: Salgaonkar Neha , Kadamkode Vinitha , Kumaran Srikala , Mallemala Prathyusha , Christy Ernest , Appavoo Shanthi , Majumdar Amitabha , Mitra Rupak , Dasgupta Anindya
Published: May 2022

Commensal bacteria play a major role in multiple skin functions by providing the first layer of defense against pathogens and maintaining the skin barrier. Staphylococcus epidermidis is one of the most common skin commensals. In this study, we showed that S. epidermidis ferments glycerol and uses it as a nutrient, while producing short‐chain and organic fatty acids, with the most notable being lactic acid. Lactic acid is an alpha‐hydroxy acid that inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria, without any negative effect on the commensal bacteria itself. Using in vivo experiments, we validated our in vitro results, showing that the skin microbiome is also capable of doing this. Finally, using 2D and 3D skin culture models, we showed that the fermentation of glycerol, mainly lactic acid, as determined by analytical methods, upregulates the expression levels of several key genes that are associated with the barrier properties of the skin. While the hydration effect of glycerol on the skin is well known, our study shows the overall benefits of glycerol on the skin microbiome, while revealing an alternate mode of action of glycerol for multiple skin benefits.
Queer Orientalism and Modernism in Dance Photographs of Harald Kreutzberg and Yvonne Georgi
Authors: Lim Wesley
Published: May 2022

This article analyzes the staging, costuming, make‐up, and gestural semiotics of Zeremonienmeister and Persisches Lied, two 1929 photographs of the German Expressionist dancers Harald Kreutzberg and Yvonne Georgi, while reflecting upon the affordances of still photography as a medium for the representation of their movement‐based art form. In these staged photographs, Kreutzberg and Georgi present their distinctive brand of modernist movement aesthetics, which both Orientalized and queered the dancing body. In cultivating a queer indeterminacy, these dancers embraced the emancipatory ethos of Weimar modernism, but by treating the East as an amalgamized, exotic source for civilizational regeneration, they exploited non‐white cultures and became vulnerable to, and later complicit in, the instrumentalization of their dance aesthetics by the Nazi regime.
Examining the impact of haemophilia treatment on health‐related quality of life
Authors: Shaikh Anum , Pedra Gabriel , Cawson Matthew , Wiseman Catherine
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Haemophilia has substantial SD effects on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), particularly for people with severe haemophilia. How certain aspects of haemophilia influence HRQoL is not well understood.

Aim

To develop predictive models of variables influencing HRQoL in people with severe haemophilia A or B.

Methods

We used data from 514 participants with haemophilia A or B who provided EQ‐5D‐3L responses in the 2015 CHESS study. Treatment was categorized as always been on‐demand (POD), previously on prophylaxis and moved to on‐demand regimen (SOD), on prophylaxis from diagnosis (PX), and prophylaxis, previously on‐demand (PXOD). Target joints were defined as ‘locations of chronic synovitis’ as reported by the treating physician. Regression models were evaluated to assess the impact of demographic and clinical covariates on HRQoL scores.

Results

Significant covariates were generally consistent across models, with number of target joints, number of hospital admissions, and any haemophilia treatment regimen other than PX all independently negatively impacting estimated EQ‐5D score. Higher level of treatment adherence (high vs. low/medium) and use of a prophylaxis treatment regimen had positive effects on estimated EQ‐5D scores. Target joints were associated with a 0.04 decrement in EQ‐5D score, and high versus low/medium adherence was associated with a 0.06 increment. PXOD, POD, and SOD treatment regimens were associated with decrements in predicted scores of 0.07, 0.09, and 0.08, respectively, versus PX.

Conclusion

This study provides a model to estimate the impact of haemophilia interventions on HRQoL, to help assess the relative impact on patient‐centric outcomes for this lifelong condition.
Effectiveness of diagnosing pulpitis: A systematic review
Authors: Donnermeyer David , Dammaschke Till , Lipski Mariusz , Schäfer Edgar
Published: May 2022

Background

The diagnosis of the status of the inflamed pulp is essential in clinical diagnosis and treatment provision. There are a limited number of well‐designed and well‐executed clinical trials on the diagnosis of the true status of the pulp.

Objectives

Three PICO questions were formulated and agreed a priori by the European Society of Endodontology to evaluate the clinical tests for sensibility testing, determination of biomarkers and pulp bleeding with regard to their suitability to correctly diagnose the condition of the pulp tissue for the development of S3‐Level guidelines.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Clarivate Analytics' Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to 21 January 2022. Additionally, a hand search was performed, and the contents of the major subject journals were also examined. Eligibility criteria followed the proposed PICO questions. Two independent reviewers were involved in study selection, data extraction and appraising the included studies; disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer. The risk of bias was assessed by the QUADAS‐2 tool for diagnostic accuracy studies, the Newcastle–Ottawa scale for noncomparative, nonrandomized studies and the Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment scale adapted for cross‐sectional studies.

Results

In total, 28 studies out of 29 publications were considered eligible and were included in the review. Twelve studies were identified to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of the pulp vitality. Ten studies fulfilled the criteria to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the pulpal conditions, while 6 studies investigating the expression of biomarkers were eligible. Three studies addressing the prognostic factors and therapeutic interventions relating to pulpal status were included.

Discussion

The core problem in pulp diagnostics is that a reliable reference standard is lacking under clinical conditions. Based on limited evidence, the most promising current approach seems to define a combination of different clinical tests and symptoms, probably in future including molecular diagnosis (“diagnostic package”) will be required to ascertain the best possible strategy to clinically diagnose true pulpal conditions.

Conclusions

The effectiveness of diagnosing pulpitis is low due to limited scientific evidence regarding the accuracy and reproducibility of diagnostic tests. There is a lack of evidence to determine the true status of the pulp or to identify prognostic indicators allowing for a reliable pre‐operative estimation of the outcome of vital pulp treatment.

Registration

PROSPERO database (CRD42021265366).
Financial crises, banking regulations, and corporate financing patterns around the world
Authors: Gungoraydinoglu Ali , Öztekin Özde
Published: May 2022

This study examines financing behavior during financial crises in an international sample of corporate firms including 85 countries from 1987 to 2017. Measuring “financial cyclicality” as the difference between financing levels during normal times and financial crisis times, we document counter‐cyclicality in leverage and pro‐cyclicality in security issuances and debt maturity. Financial crises discourage both debt and equity issuances, with a greater decline in equity, leverage increases, and debt maturity decreases. Public debt markets partially act as spare tire during crises when bank loan supply contracts significantly. Leverage financial counter‐cyclicality is more pronounced in countries with weaker banking regulations.
Anatomical variations in coronary venous drainage: Challenges and solutions in delivering cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Akhtar Zaki , Sohal Manav , Kontogiannis Christos , Harding Idris , Zuberi Zia , Bajpai Abhay , Norman Mark , Pearse Simon , Beeton Ian , Gallagher Mark M.
Published: May 2022

Aims

To investigate the abnormalities of the coronary venous system in candidates for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) and describe methods for circumventing the resulting difficulties.

Methods

From four implanting institutes, data of all CRT implants between October 2008 and October 2020 were screened for abnormal cardiac venous anatomy, defined as an anatomical variation not conforming to the accepted ‘normal’ anatomy. Patient demographics, procedural detail, and subsequent left ventricle (LV) lead pacing indices were collected.

Results

From a total of 3548 CRT implants, 15 (0.42%) patients (80% male) of 72.2 ± 10.6 years in age with an LV ejection fraction of 34 ± 10.3% were identified to have had an abnormal cardiac venous anatomy over the study period. There were 13 cases of persistent left side superior vena cava (pLSVC), five of which had coronary sinus ostium atresia (CSOA) including two with an “unroofed” coronary sinus (CS); one patient had a unique anomalous origin of the CS and one patient had an isolated CSOA. In total 14 patients (60% repeat attempt) had successful percutaneous implant under general anesthesia (46.7%) via the cephalic vein (59.1%), using the femoral approach (53.3%) for levophase venography and/or pull‐through, including one case of endocardial LV implant. Pacing follow‐up over 37.64 ± 37.6 months demonstrated LV lead threshold between 0.62 and 2.9 volts (pulsewidth 0.4–1.5 ms) in all cases; five patients died within 2.92 ± 1.6 years of a successful implant.

Conclusion

CRT devices can be implanted percutaneously even in the presence of substantial abnormalities of coronary venous anatomy. Alternative routes of venous access may be required.
Targeted ablation of residual pulmonary vein potentials in atrial fibrillation ablation through ultra‐high‐density mapping: Insights from the CHARISMA registry
Authors: Solimene Francesco , Stabile Giuseppe , Segreti Luca , Malacrida Maurizio , Schillaci Vincenzo , Rossi Pietro , Bongiorni Maria Grazia , Shopova Gergana , Cauti Filippo Maria , Zucchelli Giulio , Arestia Alberto , Bianchi Stefano , Di Cori Andrea , Maddaluno Francesco , De Simone Antonio , Garcia‐Bolao Ignacio
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Low‐voltage activity beyond pulmonary veins (PVs) may contribute to the failure of ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the long term. We aimed to assess the presence of gaps (PVG) and residual potential (residual antral potential [RAP]) within the antral scar by means of an ultra‐high‐density mapping (UHDM) system.

Methods

We studied consecutive patients from the CHARISMA registry who were undergoing AF ablation and had complete characterization of residual PV antral activity. The Lumipoint™ (Boston Scientific) map‐analysis tool was used sequentially on each PV component. The ablation endpoint was PV isolation (PVI) and electrical quiescence in the antral region.

Results

Fifty‐eight cases of AF ablation were analyzed. A total of 86 PVGs in 34 (58.6%) patients and 44 RAPs in 34 patients (58.6%) were found. In 16 (27.6%) cases, we found at least one RAP in patients with complete absence of PV conduction. RAPs showed a lower mean voltage than PVG (0.3 ± 0.2 mV vs. 0.7 ± 0.5 mV, p < .0001), whereas the mean number of electrogram peaks was higher (8.4 ± 1.4 vs. 3.2 ± 1.5, p < .0001). The percentage of patients in whom RAPs were detected through Lumipoint™ was higher than through propagation map analysis (58.6% vs. 36.2%, p = .025). Acute procedural success was 100%, with all PVs successfully isolated and RAPs completely abolished in all study patients. During a mean follow‐up of 453 ± 133 days, 6 patients (10.3%) suffered an AF/AT recurrence.

Conclusion

Local vulnerabilities in antral lesion sets were easily discernible by means of the UHDM system in both de novo and redo patients when no PV conduction was present.
Reactive granulomatous dermatitis as a clinically relevant and unifying term: a retrospective review of clinical features, associated systemic diseases, histopathology and treatment for a series of 65 patients at Mayo Clinic
Authors: Bangalore Kumar A. , Lehman J.S. , Johnson E.F. , Cantwell H.M. , Sartori Valinotti J.C. , Sokumbi O. , Davis M.D.P. , Wetter D.A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Reactive granulomatous dermatitis (RGD) is an umbrella term used to describe interstitial granulomatous dermatitis (IGD), palisaded neutrophilic and granulomatous dermatitis (PNGD), and interstitial granulomatous drug eruption (IGDR).

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe systemic associations of RGD, explore possible associations between histopathologic findings and systemic RGD associations and determine clinical relevance of RGD subtypes.

Methods

We retrospectively studied clinical and histopathologic characteristics of patients with RGD from 1990 through 2020.

Results

Of 65 patients with RGD (41 women, 24 men; median age at diagnosis, 62 years), 37 had IGD, 26 had PNGD, and 2 had IGDR. Fifty patients (76.9%) had an associated systemic condition; rheumatologic conditions were identified for 34 (52.3%) patients. The associated systemic condition occurred before RGD in approximately 75% of patients. Statistical analyses did not show significant associations between specific subtypes of RGD and systemic diseases or treatment response, and specific histopathologic findings were not predictive of an associated systemic disease.

Conclusions

Although most patients with RGD had an associated systemic condition, subtypes of RGD did not correlate with systemic associations, lending support to the use of the umbrella term RGD.
Trends in blood pressure diagnosis, treatment, and control among VA nursing home residents, 2007–2018
Authors: Odden Michelle C. , Li Yongmei , Graham Laura A. , Steinman Michael A. , Marcum Zachary A. , Liu Christine K. , Jing Bocheng , Fung Kathy Z. , Peralta Carmen A. , Lee Sei J.
Published: May 2022

Background

Inadequate treatment of high blood pressure (BP) can lead to preventable adverse events in nursing home residents, while excessive treatment can lead to associated harms.

Methods

Data were extracted from the VA electronic health record and Bar Code Medication Administration system on 40,079 long‐term care residents aged ≥65 years from October 2006 through September 2018 (FY2007‐2018). Hypertension prevalence at admission was identified by ICD code(s) in the year prior, and antihypertensive medication use was defined as administration ≥50% of days. BP measures were averaged over 2‐year epochs.

Results

The age‐standardized prevalence of hypertension diagnosis at admission increased from 75.2% in FY2007‐2008 to 85.1% in FY2017‐2018 (p‐value for trend <0.001). Rates of BP treatment and control among residents with hypertension at admission declined slightly over time (p‐values for trend <0.001) but remained high (80.3% treated in FY2017‐2018, 80.1% with average BP <140/90 mmHg). The age‐adjusted prevalence of chronic low BP (average <90/60 mmHg) also declined from 11.1% in FY2007‐2008 to 4.7% in FY2017‐2018 (p‐value for trend <0.001). Persons identified as Black race or Hispanic ethnicity and those with a history of diabetes, stroke, and renal disease were less likely to have an average BP <140/90 mmHg.

Conclusions

Hypertension is well controlled in VA nursing homes, and recent trends of less intensive BP control were accompanied by a lower prevalence of chronic low BP. Nonetheless, some high‐risk populations have average BP levels >140/90 mmHg. Future research is needed to better understand the benefits and harms of BP control in nursing home residents.
From carbon neutral to climate neutral: Dynamic life cycle assessment for wood‐based panels produced in China
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Chen Jiaxin , Ter‐Mikaelian Michael T. , Levasseur Annie , Yang Hongqiang
Published: May 2022

The forestry sector is crucial in supporting climate change mitigation, where the mitigation potential is assessed by combining forest carbon analysis and wood product life cycle assessment (LCA). Static LCA (sLCA) is the approach commonly used in national forestry mitigation models worldwide. Static GHG effects are calculated as a running total of emissions and removals, which are often used to imply climate effects. Also, carbon neutrality, a state when the GHG effects equal zero, is used to imply neutral climate effects. However, until carbon neutrality is achieved, the increased emissions contribute to climate warming. Dynamic LCA (dLCA) is an improved method to estimate climate effects by considering the atmospheric dynamics and heat trapping capacity of different GHGs. Climate neutrality is a state when the warming effects caused by increased emissions are fully compensated by warming reduction contributed by removals. We applied dLCA and sLCA to China‐made wood‐based panels produced from 1990 to 2018 by harvesting poplar plantations. Our results suggested that, compared to dLCA results, static GHG effects largely underestimated climate warming effects or overestimated mitigation contributions. Also, decades or longer was required to achieve climate neutrality following carbon neutrality, if achievable. So, within a given timeframe, a forestry mitigation activity can achieve carbon neutrality but increase climate warming, hindering the goal of limiting global temperature rise that was set in the 2015 Paris Agreement. Thus, to assess climate warming effects, using dLCA in addition to GHG effects is essential for forestry mitigation analysis.
Antidepressant use During Pregnancy: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Decision‐Making of Patients and Providers
Authors: Eakley Rachel , Lyndon Audrey
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Despite the risks associated with untreated perinatal depression and anxiety, both patients and clinicians are less likely to follow evidence‐based guidelines including the use of antidepressants during pregnancy. The aim of this integrative review was to describe the perspectives of both patients and prescribing health care providers regarding the use of antidepressants during pregnancy.

Methods

We performed a literature search in PubMed, CINAHL, ProQuest Central, and PsychINFO. Inclusion criteria were English language, original peer‐reviewed research published within the previous 10 years that described perspectives regarding the use of antidepressants of pregnant patients or prescribing providers during pregnancy. Studies were excluded if their focus was on screening practices, treatment guidelines, or evaluation of decision support tool; medication or treatment broadly; bipolar disorder or serious mental illness; or they did not provide patient or provider perspective. This review was limited to professionals with scopes of practice that include prescriptive authority (eg, physicians, advanced practices nurses, midwives). Included articles were critically appraised and read in an iterative process to extract methodological details and synthesize findings.

Results

Nineteen studies met criteria for inclusion and varied by design, sample, and quality. Together, the reviewed articles suggest that patients and prescribing providers hold a range of beliefs regarding the safety of antidepressant during pregnancy. Patients and providers appear to value different sources of information and varied in awareness of the negative impacts of untreated depression and anxiety during pregnancy. Many patients report dissatisfaction with available information and distress throughout the decision‐making experience. Notably, patients and providers had incongruent perceptions of the others’ experience.

Discussion

Inconsistencies between knowledge, attitudes, and decision‐making highlight the need for improved dissemination of evidence‐based treatments and support increased training for psychopharmacology during pregnancy. Efforts to reduce patient distress regarding their decisions, such as adequate time and information, are indicated.
Best‐Fit Algorithm Influences on Virtual Casts’ Alignment Discrepancies
Authors: Revilla‐León Marta , Gohil Aishwa , Barmak Abdul B. , Zandinejad Amirali , Raigrodski Ariel J. , Alonso Pérez‐Barquero Jorge
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To measure the influence of best‐fit (BF) algorithms (entire dataset, 3 or 6 points landmark‐based, or section‐based BF) on virtual casts and their alignment discrepancies.

Material and methods

A mandibular typodont was obtained and digitized by using an industrial scanner (GOM Atos Q 3D 12M). A control mesh was acquired. The typodont was digitized by using an intraoral scanner (TRIOS 4). Based on the alignment procedures, four groups were created: BF of the entire dataset (BF group), landmark‐based BF using 3 reference points (LBF‐3 group), or 6 reference points (LBF‐6 group), and section‐based BF (SBF group). The root mean square (RMS) error was calculated. One‐way ANOVA and post hoc pairwise multi‐comparison Tukey were used to analyze the data (α = 0.05).

Results

Significant RMS error mean value differences were found across the groups (p < 0.001). Tukey test revealed significant RMS error mean value differences between the BF and LBF‐3 groups (p = 0.022), BF and LBF‐6 groups (p < 0.001), LB‐3 and LB‐6 groups (p < 0.001), LBF‐3 and SBF groups (p < 0.001), and LBF‐6 and SBF groups (p < 0.001). The LBF‐6 group had the lowest trueness, while SBF and BF groups obtained the highest trueness values. Furthermore, significant SD differences were revealed across the groups tested (p < 0.001). Tukey test revealed significant SD differences between the BF and LBF‐6 groups (p < 0.001), LBF‐3 and LB‐6 groups (p < 0.001), LBF‐3 and SBF groups (p = 0.004), and LBF‐6 and SBF groups (p < 0.001). The BF and SBF groups showed equal and highest precision, while the LBF‐6 group had the lowest precision.

Conclusions

The best‐fit algorithms tested influenced the virtual casts’ alignment discrepancy. Entire dataset or section‐based best‐fit algorithms obtained the highest virtual casts’ alignment trueness and precision compared with the landmark‐based method.
Dietary supplementation of spirulina and canthaxanthin boosts laying performance, lipid profile in blood and egg yolk, hatchability, and semen quality of chickens
Authors: Ismail Fawzy , Sherif Khalil , Rizk Yasser , Hassan Montaha , Mekawy Aml , Mahrose Khalid
Published: May 2022

This study examined the impacts of dietary spirulina (SP) and canthaxanthin (CX) supplementation to laying hens on reproductive performance and cock's semen quality evaluation. Three hundred and sixty of indigenous Sinai chickens (300 hens + 60 cocks), 48‐weeks‐old, were randomly divided into five treatments; a control and four supplemented (0.6 g SP mg/kg, 0.8 g SP mg/kg, 6 mg CX/kg diet, and 8 mg CX/kg diet) with six replications of 10 females and 1 male per treatment for laying trial and 1 male for semen evaluation. The animals were fed with experimental diets for 12 weeks. Supplementing 6 mg CX/kg diet led to an increase in the final body weight and egg production traits, while 8 mg CX/kg diet resulted in an improving feed conversion ratio. Supplementation of 0.6 g SP mg/kg or 6.0 mg CX/kg diet resulted in the highest egg production. The heaviest egg weight and egg mass were induced by 0.8 g SP mg/kg. Eggs laid from hens fed 0.6 g SP/kg diet had a higher concentration of cholesterol than those fed 0.8 g SP/kg and those fed 6.0 and 8.0 mg CX/kg. Cocks fed 6 mg CX/kg and those fed 0.8 g SP/kg diet had the greatest sperm concentration. The supplementation of 0.8 g SP mg/kg diet or both 6 and 8 mg CX/kg diet enhanced hatchability. So, dietary spirulina (0.8 mg/kg) and canthaxanthin (6 mg/kg) supplementation to Sinai laying hens and cocks could be used to improve productive and reproductive and performance.