bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flow reversal during stroke thrombectomy
Authors: Caldwell James , Lee Shane S H , Sarrafzadeh Mikal , Rhodes Dave S , McGuinness Ben J
Published: March 2024

When performing mechanical thrombectomy for stroke patients, some physicians use balloon guide catheters (BGCs) in order to achieve flow reversal and thereby improve reperfusion quality. There is substantial evidence favoring the use of BGCs to improve reperfusion rates and clinical outcomes for thrombectomy patients; however, as we will outline in this review, there is also evidence that BGCs do not achieve reliable flow reversal in many circumstances. Therefore, if we are able to modify our techniques to improve the likelihood of flow reversal during thrombectomy maneuvers, we may be able to further improve reperfusion quality and clinical outcomes. This paper provides an overview of concepts on this topic and outlines some potential techniques to facilitate flow reversal more consistently, including a method to visually confirm it, with the aim of making iterative improvements towards optimal reperfusion for stroke patients.
Mechanical and chemical itch regulated by neuropeptide Y-Y1 signaling
Authors: Chen Sihan , Chen Junhui , Tang Dan , Yin Wen , Xu Saihong , Gao Po , Jiao Yingfu , Yu Weifeng
Published: March 2024

Itch is a somatosensory sensation to remove potential harmful stimulation with a scratching desire, which could be divided into mechanical and chemical itch according to diverse stimuli, such as wool fiber and insect biting. It has been reported that neuropeptide Y (NPY) neurons, a population of spinal inhibitory interneurons, could gate the transmission of mechanical itch, with no effect on chemical itch. In our study, we verified that chemogenetic activation of NPY neurons could inhibit the mechanical itch as well as the chemical itch, which also attenuated the alloknesis phenomenon in the chronic dry skin model. Afterwards, intrathecal administration of NPY1R agonist, [Leu31, Pro34]-NPY (LP-NPY), showed the similar inhibition effect on mechanical itch, chemical itch and alloknesis as chemo-activation of NPY neurons. Whereas, intrathecal administration of NPY1R antagonist BIBO 3304 enhanced mechanical itch and reversed the alloknesis phenomenon inhibited by LP-NPY treatment. Moreover, selectively knocking down NPY1R by intrathecal injection of Npy1r siRNA enhanced mechanical and chemical itch behavior as well. These results indicate that NPY neurons in spinal cord regulate mechanical and chemical itch, and alloknesis in dry skin model through NPY1 receptors.
Mood shapes the impact of reward on perceived fatigue from listening
Authors: McGarrigle Ronan , Knight Sarah , Rakusen Lyndon , Mattys Sven
Published: March 2024

Knowledge of the underlying mechanisms of effortful listening could help to reduce cases of social withdrawal and mitigate fatigue, especially in older adults. However, the relationship between transient effort and longer term fatigue is likely to be more complex than originally thought. Here, we manipulated the presence/absence of monetary reward to examine the role of motivation and mood state in governing changes in perceived effort and fatigue from listening. In an online study, 185 participants were randomly assigned to either a “reward” ( n = 91) or “no-reward” ( n = 94) group and completed a dichotic listening task along with a series of questionnaires assessing changes over time in perceived effort, mood, and fatigue. Effort ratings were higher overall in the reward group, yet fatigue ratings in that group showed a shallower linear increase over time. Mediation analysis revealed an indirect effect of reward on fatigue ratings via perceived mood state; reward induced a more positive mood state which was associated with reduced fatigue. These results suggest that: (1) listening conditions rated as more “effortful” may be less fatiguing if the effort is deemed worthwhile, and (2) alterations to one’s mood state represent a potential mechanism by which fatigue may be elicited during unrewarding listening situations.
Created stepping-stone configurations depend on task constraints
Authors: Wagman Jeffrey B , Tahsin Orthy Maisha , Jeschke Amy M , Duffrin Tyler
Published: March 2024

Previous studies have shown that choices about how to configure stepping-stones to be used as playground or exercise equipment reflect a person’s action capabilities. In two experiments, we investigated whether choices about how to configure stepping-stones to be used as a path for locomotion additionally reflect the goals for which or the constraints under which the path is to be used. In Experiment 1, participants created stepping-stone configurations (with rubber mats) that would allow them to cross a given space quickly, comfortably, or carefully. Configurations in the “Quickly” condition consisted of fewer mats, and longer mean (linear) distances between mats, and greater “challenge” (relative to maximum stepping distance) than in the other two conditions. In Experiment 2, participants created stepping-stone configurations that would be fun to use or that would be easy to use to cross a given space. Configurations in the “Fun” condition consisted of more mats, longer linear distances between mats, and greater “challenge” than those in the “Easy” condition. Moreover, paths in the “Fun” condition were also wider, longer, and exhibited larger changes in distances and angles between consecutive mats than in the “Easy” condition. The results are discussed both in terms of implications for understanding affordances and for the design of stepping-stone paths.
Vascular endothelial growth factor/platelet ratio as a potential biomarker for preeclampsia: A study of angiogenic markers in Pakistani patients
Authors: Khidri Feriha Fatima , Waryah Yar Muhammad , Nigar Roohi , Mughal Zaib-Un-Nisa , Zai Jawaid Ahmed , Rao Ali Raza , Ujjan Ikram Din , Waryah Ali Muhammad
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To determine the levels of angiogenic biomarkers: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (sVEGFR1 or sFlt-1), platelet count, and the VEGF/platelet ratio in preeclampsia.

Methods

Forty-four cases of preeclampsia and 44 controls were recruited.

Results

The serum VEGF, sVEGFR1, and VEGF/platelet ratio were significantly higher and platelet counts lower in preeclampsia in comparison to controls (VEGF: median = 178 vs. 97 pg/mL, p < 0.0001, sVEGFR1: 1634 vs. 627 pg/mL, p < 0.0001, VEGF/platelet ratio: 1.148 vs. 0.417, and platelet count: 178 × 103/µL vs. 232 × 103/µL, p = 0.0006). The VEGF and VEGF/platelet ratio showed better diagnostic accuracy for differentiating preeclampsia, with an area under the curve of 97.47% (95% CI: 0.95–1.00) and 89.46% (95% CI: 0.82–0.96), respectively. VEGFA: c.-2055A>C (rs699947) AA genotype exhibited higher serum VEGF levels associated with preeclampsia.

Conclusion

The higher levels of angiogenic biomarkers in preeclampsia, suggest a role in the pathogenesis and potential diagnosis.
Associated injuries and complications in pediatric pelvic fractures requiring hospitalization: A series of 315 cases
Authors: Song Baojian , Wang Qiang , Feng Wei , Zhu Danjiang , Yao Ziming , Zhang Xuejun
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

Pediatric pelvic fractures are uncommon. This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of pediatric pelvic fractures requiring hospitalization and analyze their correlation with associated injuries and complications.

Methods:

Data from 315 pediatric pelvic fracture patients admitted to our hospital from January 2006 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Sex, age, modified Torode–Zieg classification, abbreviated injury scale score, injury severity score, mortality, and concomitant injuries were analyzed.

Results:

Of the 285 (90.5%) cases of combined injuries, most injuries occurred in the abdomen (64.8%) and lower extremities (47.6%), followed by the chest (45.4%) and head (34.6%). A total of 78 patients (24.8%) were transferred to the intensive care unit. In total, 94 patients (29.8%) had complications during hospitalization. There were differences based on injury mechanism ( p = 0.001), with the highest complication rate in the fall injury group (32 cases (46.4%)). Approximately 51.4% of patients received surgical treatment for problems that were not related to pelvic fractures. Among these, 30.2% necessitated surgical intervention on the lower limbs. Abdominal surgery was necessary in 19.0% of patients.

Conclusions:

Children who have pelvic fractures frequently require hospitalization due to the presence of severe injuries in other areas of their bodies. IIIB pelvic fractures frequently occur in conjunction with more severe abdominal injuries; therefore, the prompt management of cavity and organ injuries is of particular importance. Blood transfusion and injury severity score were associated risk factors for intensive care unit admission.
Predictors of seizure outcomes in stereo-electroencephalography-guided radio-frequency thermocoagulation for MRI-negative epilepsy
Authors: Huang Qi , Xie Pandeng , Zhou Jian , Ding Haoran , Liu Zhao , Li Tianfu , Guan Yuguang , Wang Mengyang , Wang Jing , Teng Pengfei , Zhu Mingwang , Ma Kaiqiang , Wu Han , Luan Guoming , Zhai Feng
Published: March 2024

Background:

One-third of intractable epilepsy patients have no visually identifiable focus for neurosurgery based on imaging tests [magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-negative cases]. Stereo-electroencephalography-guided radio-frequency thermocoagulation (SEEG-guided RF-TC) is utilized in the clinical treatment of epilepsy to lower the incidence of complications post-open surgery.

Objective:

This study aimed to identify prognostic factors and long-term seizure outcomes in SEEG-guided RF-TC for patients with MRI-negative epilepsy.

Design:

This was a single-center retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

We included 30 patients who had undergone SEEG-guided RF-TC at Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, from April 2015 to December 2019. The probability of remaining seizure-free and the plotted survival curves were analyzed. Prognostic factors were analyzed using log-rank tests in univariate analysis and the Cox regression model in multivariate analysis.

Results:

With a mean time of 31.07 ± 2.64 months (median 30.00, interquartile range: 18.00–40.00 months), 11 out of 30 patients (36.7%) were classified as International League Against Epilepsy class 1 in the last follow-up. The mean time of remaining seizure-free was 21.33 ± 4.55 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 12.41–30.25], and the median time was 3.00 ± 0.54 months (95% CI 1.94–4.06). Despite falling in the initial year, the probability of remaining seizure-free gradually stabilizes in the subsequent years. The patients were more likely to obtain seizure freedom when the epileptogenic zone was located in the insular lobe or with one focus on the limbic system ( p = 0.034, hazard ratio 5.019, 95% CI 1.125–22.387).

Conclusion:

Our findings may be applied to guide individualized surgical interventions and help clinicians make better decisions.
Research in the digital age: Adopting digital methods in humanities and social sciences research in Sri Lankan universities
Authors: Silva Premakumara de , Nalaka Godawa Pathiranage Suresh , Badullahewage Shohani U , Rathnayake Udaya N , Wijesekara Piyoda
Published: March 2024

There has been phenomenal growth in the demand for digital technology for research in recent years. Versatile digital methods and the availability of large volumes of data are enabling different approaches to research. There is also a challenge in order to ensure researchers are aware and are equipped to use digital methods to support their particular research. During the recent period, the field of Humanities and Social Sciences has shifted away from its traditional defensive stance when the issue of impact is addressed. Globally, these fields utilize digital technology in facilitating computer-driven research for studying society, politics, culture, psychology, and economics in addition to humanities and fine arts. This paper presents the outcome of the research carried out in relation to the use of digital research methods among Humanities and Social Sciences academics at Sri Lankan universities. The significant findings of the study are: half of the academics are not familiar with digital research methods; therefore, more attention is needed to promote digital methods in Humanities and Social Sciences research; the adoption of digital methods is conditioned due to computer and digital literacy, infrastructure facilities, institutional and library support, positive attitudes, motivators, and academic discipline.
Care at a distance: Understanding lived experiences of people with MSK disorders receiving non-pharmacological interventions delivered through synchronous telehealth: A systematic rapid review
Authors: Atkinson-Graham Melissa , Brunton Ginny , Cancelliere Carol , Corso Melissa , de Zoete Annemarie , Rubinstein Sidney M , Murnaghan Kent , Mior Silvano
Published: March 2024

Background

Little is known about lived experience of synchronous telehealth in patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders.

Objective

We conducted a rapid systematic review to answer: (1) what are the lived experiences and/or perspectives of people with MSK disorders receiving non-pharmacological interventions delivered through synchronous telehealth; and (2) what clinical implications can be inferred from qualitative studies focusing on lived experiences for how telehealth is delivered in the management of MSK disorders?

Data sources

A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ProQuest, and Google Scholar from June 2010 to July 2023. Eligible qualitative and mixed methods studies capturing lived experiences of adults with MSK disorders receiving non-pharmacological interventions via synchronous telehealth were included.

Study methods

Systematic rapid review conducted according to WHO guidelines. Titles and abstracts screened by reviewers independently, eligible studies critically appraised, and data was extracted. Themes summarized using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). GRADE-CERQual (Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research) used to assess confidence in synthesis findings.

Results

We identified 9782 references, screened 8029, and critically appraised 22, and included 17 studies. There is evidence to suggest that the experience of telehealth prior to and during the pandemic was shaped by (1) patient perception of telehealth, (2) existing relationships with practitioners, (3) availability and accessibility of telehealth technologies, and (4) perceptions about the importance of the role of the physical exam in assessing and treating MSK disorders.

Conclusion

The five identified implications could be used to inform future research, policy, and strategy development.
A scenario-based web app to facilitate patient education in lung tumor patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery: Development and usability testing
Authors: Su Jun-Ming , Huang Wei-Li , Huang Hui-Chen , Tseng Yau-Lin , Li Meng-Jhen
Published: March 2024

Background

Patient education (PE) is essential for improving patients’ knowledge, anxiety, and satisfaction, and supporting their postoperative recovery. However, the advantages of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS)—smaller incisions and faster recovery—can result in shorter hospital stays, making PE more challenging to implement effectively. Multimedia PE can potentially enhance PE, but its effectiveness for patients undergoing VATS is unclear.

Objective

This study developed a scenario-based PE web app for lung tumor patients undergoing VATS (SPE-VATS) to facilitate the PE process and evaluated its usability through a clinical trial.

Methods

The SPE-VATS provided the experimental group (EG: 32 participants) with interactive scenario, query guidance, diagnostic analysis, experience sharing, and active reminder, while the control group (CG: 32 participants) used pamphlets and videos. The usability of SPE-VATS in terms of postoperative anxiety reduction and patient satisfaction with the app was evaluated using self-reported questionnaires based on the state-trait anxiety inventory, technology acceptance model, system usability scale, and task load index.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative anxiety reduction between the EG and CG, possibly because 90% of the participants underwent a low-risk surgical type, and VATS is known to be advantageous in alleviating surgical anxiety. However, females and higher educated EG participants showed a non-significant but favorable reduction than their CG counterparts. Moreover, the EG was highly satisfied with the app (rated 4.2 to 4.4 out of 5.0), with no significant gender and education level difference. They particularly valued the interactive scenario, experience sharing, and diagnostic analysis features of SPE-VATS.

Conclusions

The SPE-VATS demonstrated its usability and high patient satisfaction, particularly for female and higher educated patients. Low-risk patient predominance and VATS's advantages may explain non-significant postoperative anxiety reduction, warranting further studies on high-risk patients to evaluate the impact of SPE-VATS on clinical practice.
The rise of digital platforms as a soft power apparatus in the New Korean Wave era
Authors: Jin Dal Yong
Published: March 2024

By employing digital soft power as a theoretical framework, this article examines the increasing role of domestic digital platforms in the New Korean Wave and their contributions to cultural diplomacy. It discusses the ways in which digital soft power becomes the primary vehicle in cultural diplomacy related to the Korean Wave. As there are tensions and conflicts between these private platforms and the Korean government, this article critically analyzes the crucial relations between these two major parties in executing cultural diplomacy and digital soft power. As its methodological framework, the utilization of social media by the Korean government, particularly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was used. It selects the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Facebook posts between 1 January and 31 December of 2022 to determine the ways in which the Korean government utilizes social media as a soft power tool. It develops discourse analysis in tandem with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Facebook posts to determine several major strategies the Korean government has advanced in the digital platform era.
Color Matching between Resin Cements and Try-in Pastes in Glass Ceramics at Different Thicknesses
Authors: Ozdogan Alper , Erdas Gizem , Gulmez Ozge , Karatas Furkan
Published: March 2024

Aim:

This study aims to assess how well light-cured resin cements and the corresponding try-in pastes match in terms of color.

Materials and Methods:

A1 color blocks containing three different types of ceramic materials were used to generate 120 specimens (5 × 5 mm2). These specimens were split into two thickness-based groups, and the groups were then randomly allocated to receive various kinds of resin cement. Composite substrate blocks with A3 color and dimensions of 4 mm thickness were used to simulate dentin substrates. Color measurements were taken before and after the application of try-in pastes and resin cements using a spectrophotometer. The obtained results were analyzed using the CIELab and CIEDE2000 frameworks, and statistical analysis was performed using a three-way ANOVA test and paired sample t-test with a significance level of α = 0.05.

Results:

There were no significant interactions between material, thickness, and cement in relation to color in both evaluation systems ( p > .05). However, there were significant differences in the a* values (green-red axis) between the try-in pastes and resin cements ( p < .05), while no significant differences were observed in the L* (lightness) and b* (blue-yellow axis) values ( p > .05).

Conclusion:

The try-in pastes utilized for pre-cementation evaluation exhibited favorable color compatibility with the corresponding resin cements.
Book review: Arkotong Longkumer, The Greater India Experiment: Hindutva and the Northeast
Authors: Misra Sanghamitra
Published: March 2024

Arkotong Longkumer, The Greater India Experiment: Hindutva and the Northeast. Delhi: Navayana, 2022, 336 pp., ₹599.
Preoperative Synovial Tissue and Synovial Fluid Biomarkers as Predictors for Outcomes After Knee Arthroscopy and ACL Reconstruction: A Narrative Review
Authors: Gottreich Julia R. , Katz Jeffrey N. , Jones Morgan H.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Biomarkers collected in synovial tissue and fluid have been identified as potential predictors of outcomes after arthroscopy.

Purpose:

To provide a narrative review of the current literature that assesses the associations between preoperative biomarkers in the synovial fluid or synovial tissue and patient outcomes after knee arthroscopy.

Study Design:

Narrative review.

Methods:

We searched the PubMed database with keywords, “biomarkers AND arthroscopy,” “biomarkers AND anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction,” and “biomarkers AND meniscectomy.” To be included, studies must have collected synovial fluid or synovial tissue from patients before or during arthroscopic knee surgery and analyzed the relationship of biomarkers to postoperative patient outcomes. Biomarkers were classified into 4 main categories: metabolism of aggrecan in cartilage, metabolism of collagen in cartilage (type II collagen), noncollagenous proteins in the knee, and other. When biomarker levels and outcomes were expressed with continuous variables, we abstracted the Pearson or Spearman correlation coefficients as the effect measure. If the biomarker values were continuous and the outcomes binary, we abstracted the mean or median biomarker values in those with favorable versus unfavorable outcomes. We calculated effect sizes as the difference between means of both groups divided by the standard deviation from the mean in the group with better outcomes.

Results:

Eight studies were included in the review. Each study reported different patient outcomes. Biomarkers associated with metabolism of aggrecan, type II collagen metabolism, and noncollagenous proteins as well as inflammatory biomarkers had statistically significant associations with a range of patient outcomes after knee arthroscopy. Difference across studies in sample size and outcome measures precluded choosing a single biomarker that best predicted patient outcomes.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that biomarkers associated with metabolism of aggrecan, type II collagen metabolism, noncollagenous proteins, as well as inflammatory biomarkers may help surgeons and their patients anticipate surgical outcomes.
Testing a Holistic Framework of Early Care and Education and K–12 Leaders’ Working Conditions and Well-Being
Authors: Ford Timothy G. , Kwon Kyong-Ah , Lavigne Alyson L. , McHugh Tom
Published: March 2024

The importance of leadership for key educational outcomes is well documented, yet leaders’ working conditions and well-being have received considerably less attention, particularly in the early care and education (ECE) sector. Job-Demands-Resources (JD-R) theory was used to develop a holistic conceptualization of leader well-being for the purpose of examining the associations among various job demands, resources, and well-being (i.e., physical, psychological, and professional well-being) for leaders of birth to 12th grade (B–12). We tested our conceptual model via structural equation modeling (SEM) with over 2,000 ECE and K–12 building leaders across the United States. We found substantially stronger effects between job demands and well-being relative to job resources and well-being, though resources were found to be directly associated with professional well-being. Further, our tested model was similar for both ECE and K–12 leaders. Overall findings suggest that a reduction in demands—not just increased resources—is needed to ensure improved leader well-being.
Strategies for Preparing Future Public Health Leaders: Learning from Trailblazing Women in Health Education
Authors: Elaine Auld M. , Fortune Deborah , Alber Julia M. , Mickalide Angela D.
Published: March 2024

Many female health education pioneers made seminal contributions to public health and social justice, yet these examples are not well documented in textbooks or integrated into public health curricula as pedagogical learning opportunities. Providing biographies and lessons learned from the past leaders within undergraduate health education curricula can help develop students’ skills as future leaders and address gender inequities in the field. Gender inequities in higher education as well as many public health practice settings result in lower salaries, slower career advancement opportunities, fewer supervisory positions, increased work-life conflicts, and heavier workloads. Developing women’s competencies in leadership and professionalism early in their careers is critical to meeting public health challenges such as COVID-19. We present four female health education trailblazers from different historical eras and various workforce sectors who exemplify leadership attributes (i.e., courage/risk taking, vision, advocacy, mentorship) and can be highlighted as a part of future health education curriculum. Innovative methods and approaches are provided for integrating these leadership lessons into undergraduate public health courses, in alignment with the HESPA II 2020 competencies. Learning from the past to inform the future is critical to inspiring and shaping the careers of emerging health educators.
Practice of Nonpharmacological Pain Control Strategies Among Nurses Working in Public Hospitals of West Arsi Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Abdella Jabir , Fetene Diriba , Lamesa Dinka , Ezo Elias
Published: March 2024

Background

Nonpharmacological pain control strategies combine numerous strategies that contain nondrug measures for pain remedies for sufferers.

Objective

To assess the practice of nonpharmacological pain control strategies among nurses working in public hospitals of West Arsi zone, Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was employed from April 15 to May 30, 2022. The total sample size was 422 and a simple random sampling technique was used. Data were entered using Epi-information 4.6 version and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Multicollinearity was checked by considering the variance inflation factor and tolerance. The goodness of fit test was done using the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit check. Binary logistic regression analysis was done and variables with a p-value of < 0.25 within the bivariable analysis were taken into the multivariable analysis. Statistical significance was declared at a p-value of < 0.05 with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Result

The practice of nonpharmacological pain control strategies was 53.8% (95% CI: 48.9–58.7). Age of 30–39 years old (AOR: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.34–3.86), educational status bachelor's degree (AOR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.47–4.45), marital status married (AOR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.28–0.73), and having training (AOR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.23–3.17) were found to be significantly associated with practice of nonpharmacological pain control strategies.

Conclusion

About five in 10 nurses working in West Arsi zone public hospitals had good practice of nonpharmacological pain control strategies. Age, educational status, marital status, and training were found to be significantly associated with practice. Therefore, improving the educational status of nurses through various opportunities such as continued professional development and regular updating, and training nurses about methods may increase the nurses’ practice toward nonpharmacological pain control strategies.
Breeding distrust: The biopolitics of chronic wasting disease in white-tailed deer
Authors: Tabor Zach , Fry Matthew , Johnson Jamie
Published: March 2024

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is now a major health concern among US cervid populations, including white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus). Texas is home to the greatest number of deer breeding facilities and most bred deer in the United States. The vast majority of the state's CWD cases occur at deer breeding facilities. CWD risk on deer breeding facilities is largely owed to the close proximity of deer pens. To reduce the risk of CWD transmission, state authorities use strict management strategies including culling of infected and potentially infected deer populations. State wildlife biologists provide recommendations that inform the CWD containment strategies. However, there is contention between deer breeders and state wildlife authorities over CWD. Property contradictions—whereby the state must manage the public trust deer herd on privately owned land—complicates the state's biopower and provides breeders the opportunity to reconfigure biopolitics. We draw on qualitative research data to demonstrate how CWD science becomes entangled among trophy antler genetics, physical abnormalities, ranching science, conspiracy narratives, hunting culture, and public trust property. We show how both the state and private entrepreneurs manipulate scientific knowledge toward the regulation of bodies: hunters, ranchers, and deer breeders on one hand, and the animals themselves, on the other.
Careless Responding: Why Many Findings Are Spurious or Spuriously Inflated
Authors: Stosic Morgan D. , Murphy Brett A. , Duong Fred , Fultz Amber A. , Harvey Summer E. , Bernieri Frank
Published: March 2024

Contrary to long-standing conventional wisdom, failing to exclude data from carelessly responding participants on questionnaires or behavioral tasks will frequently result in false-positive or spuriously inflated findings. Despite prior publications demonstrating this disturbing statistical confound, it continues to be widely underappreciated by most psychologists, including highly experienced journal editors. In this article, we aim to comprehensively explain and demonstrate the severity and widespread prevalence of careless responding’s (CR) inflationary effects in psychological research. We first describe when and why one can expect to observe the inflationary effect of unremoved CR data in a manner accessible to early graduate or advanced undergraduate students. To this end, we provide an online simulator tool and instructional videos for use in classrooms. We then illustrate realistic magnitudes of the severity of unremoved CR data by presenting novel reanalyses of data sets from three high-profile articles: We found that many of their published effects would have been meaningfully, sometimes dramatically, inflated if they had not rigorously screened out CR data. To demonstrate the frequency with which researchers fail to adequately screen for CR, we then conduct a systematic review of CR screening procedures in studies using paid online samples (e.g., MTurk) published across two prominent psychological-science journals. These findings suggest that most researchers either did not conduct any kind of CR screening or conducted only bare minimal screening. To help researchers avoid publishing spuriously inflated findings, we summarize best practices to help mitigate the threats of CR data.
News Media Representations of Protesting Farmers and the Kidapawan Massacre in Central Mindanao, the Philippines
Authors: Pascual Julius Cesar Rosales
Published: March 2024

This study explored the media representations of farmer-victims in Kidapawan City, the Philippines. By employing critical discourse analysis, it examined 27 tabloid news stories and exposed how Metropolis-based news media represented the farmers who were reportedly involved in socio-political issues with the government that paved the way to the Kidapawan Massacre dated April 1, 2016. The analysis of media representation of farmers identified four themes: the villains-victims, conflict and politics, media as faultfinders and terminology crisis. It included concurring, dissenting and nondiscriminatory arguments, but were not helpful in resolving conflicts. Rather than skewed representations, the media needs to play a better role in upholding the interest of farmers.
Semaphorin 7A coordinates neutrophil response during pulmonary inflammation and sepsis
Authors: Granja Tiago , Köhler David , Tang Linyan , Burkard Philipp , Eggstein Claudia , Hemmen Katherina , Heinze Katrin G. , Heck-Swain Ka-Lin , Koeppen Michael , Günther Sven , Blaha Maximilian , Magunia Harry , Bamberg Maximilian , Konrad Franziska , Ngamsri Kristian-Christos , Fuhr Anika , Keller Marius , Bernard Alice M. , Haeberle Helene A. , Bakchoul Tamam , Zarbock Alexander , Nieswandt Bernhard , Rosenberger Peter
Published: March 2024

Pulmonary defense mechanisms are critical for host integrity during pneumonia and sepsis. This defense is fundamentally dependent on the activation of neutrophils during the innate immune response. Recent work has shown that semaphorin 7A (Sema7A) holds significant impact on platelet function, yet its role on neutrophil function within the lung is not well understood. This study aimed to identify the role of Sema7A during pulmonary inflammation and sepsis. In patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), we were able to show a correlation between Sema7A and oxygenation levels. During subsequent workup, we found that Sema7A binds to the neutrophil PlexinC1 receptor, increasing integrins, and L-selectin on neutrophils. Sema7A prompted neutrophil chemotaxis in vitro and the formation of platelet-neutrophil complexes in vivo. We also observed altered adhesion and transmigration of neutrophils in Sema7A−/−animals in the lung during pulmonary inflammation. This effect resulted in increased number of neutrophils in the interstitial space of Sema7A−/− animals but reduced numbers of neutrophils in the alveolar space during pulmonary sepsis. This finding was associated with significantly worse outcome of Sema7A−/− animals in a model of pulmonary sepsis. Sema7A has an immunomodulatory effect in the lung, affecting pulmonary sepsis and ARDS. This effect influences the response of neutrophils to external aggression and might influence patient outcome. This trial was registered at www.ClinicalTrials.gov as #NCT02692118.
CGRP-monoclonal antibodies in Japan: insights from an online survey of physician members of the Japanese headache society
Authors: Takizawa Tsubasa , Ihara Keiko , Watanabe Narumi , Takemura Ryo , Takahashi Nobuyuki , Miyazaki Naoki , Shibata Mamoru , Suzuki Keisuke , Imai Noboru , Suzuki Norihiro , Hirata Koichi , Takeshima Takao , Nakahara Jin
Published: March 2024

Background

Anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies (CGRPmAbs) have greatly changed migraine treatment options. In Japan, although CGRPmAb guidelines (≥ 4 monthly migraine days (MMDs) and ≥ 1 previous preventive failure) are well-acknowledged, the actual use of CGRPmAbs and the circumstances of the related headache care are unknown.

Methods

We conducted an online survey of Japanese Headache Society members, inquiring about the physicians' experience with CGRPmAbs and how they make decisions related to their use.

Results

Of the 397 respondents, 320 had prescribed CGRPmAbs. The threshold number of previous preventive failures for recommending a CGRPmAb was two for the majority of the respondents (n = 170, 54.5%), followed by one (n = 64, 20.5%). The MMD threshold was ≥ 4 for 71 respondents (22.8%), ≥ 6 for 68 (21.8%), ≥ 8 for 76 (24.4%), and ≥ 10 for 81 (26.0%). The respondents tended to assess treatment efficacy after 3 months (episodic migraine: n = 217, 69.6%, chronic migraine: n = 188, 60.3%). The cost of CGRPmAbs was described by many respondents in two questions: (i) any request for a CGRPmAb (27.7%), and (ii) the most frequently reported reason for responders to discontinue CGRPmAbs (24.4%).

Conclusions

Most of the respondents recommended CGRPmAbs to patients with ≥ 2 preventive failures, followed by ≥ 1. The MMD threshold ranged mostly from ≥ 4 to ≥ 10. The concern for costs was raised as a major limiting factor for prescribing CGRPmAbs.
Societal and economic burden of migraine in Spain: results from the 2020 National Health and Wellness Survey
Authors: García-Azorín David , Moya-Alarcón Carlota , Armada Beatriz , Sánchez del Río Margarita
Published: March 2024

Background

The burden of migraine goes beyond the pain and associated symptoms. We aimed to describe the impact of migraine in healthcare resource utilization (HCRU), work productivity, and mood disorders, as well as its economic cost.

Methods

Case–control study nested in a cross-sectional analysis of patient-reported data collected between 30/12/2019 and 20/04/2020 as part of the National Health and Wellness Survey, from respondents located in Spain. Adults (≥ 18 years old) who reported a physician diagnosis of migraine and ≥ 1 monthly headache days (MHD) in the previous 30 days were included. HCRU, health-related quality-of-life, depression scores, work and activity impairment, and the associated direct and indirect costs were assessed for four cohorts of migraine patients, according to the frequency of headache (MHD: 1–3, 4–7, 8–14, ≥ 15) and compared to a no-migraine control, matched to migraine cases by a propensity score based on demographic and clinical variables.

Results

The survey was completed by 595 people with active migraine, of whom 461 (77.4%) experienced < 8 MHDs and 134 (22.6%) ≥ 8 MHDs, and 1,190 non-migraine matched controls. Migraine patients presented worse mental and physical health functioning (SF-12 MCS: 41.9 vs. 44.7, p < 0.001; SF-12 PCS: 48.6 vs. 51.5, p < 0.001), worse self-reported health (EQ-5D VAS: 65.8 vs. 73.5, p < 0.001), more severe depression (PHQ-9: 8.9 vs. 6.1, p < 0.001), and higher overall work impairment (WPAI: 41.4 vs. 25.5, p < 0.001). People with migraine had higher HCRU, twice higher hospitalization rates (17.0% vs. 8.3%, p < 0.001) and 1.6 higher emergency room (ER) visit rates (51.4% vs. 31.2%, p < 0.001). Having migraine translated into higher annual costs with HCRU (€894 vs. €530) and productivity losses (€8,000 vs. €4,780) per person. Respondents with more MHDs presented worse outcomes and higher costs but suffering from 1–3 MHD also increased costs by 51.3%.

Conclusions

Having migraine not only causes a massive impact on patients’ quality of life and ability to work, but it also generates considerable economic costs for society. In Spain, having migraine was associated to 1.7 higher costs per patient. The clinical and economic burden increases with the frequency of headaches but is higher than controls even in patients suffering from 1–3 MHD.

Graphical Abstract
Is erenumab an efficient alternative for the prevention of episodic and chronic migraine in Spain? Results of a cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Pozo-Rosich Patricia , Poveda José Luis , Crespo Carlos , Martínez María , Rodríguez José Manuel , Irimia Pablo
Published: March 2024

Background

The reimbursement of erenumab in Spain and other European countries is currently restricted because of the cost of this novel therapy to patients with migraine who have experienced previous failures to traditional preventive treatments. However, this reimbursement policy should be preferably based on cost-effectiveness studies, among other criteria. This study performed a cost-effectiveness analysis of erenumab versus topiramate for the prophylactic treatment of episodic migraine (EM) and versus placebo for chronic migraine (CM).

Methods

A Markov model with a 10-year time horizon, from the perspective of the Spanish National Healthcare System, was constructed based on data from responder and non-responder patients. A responder was defined as having a minimum 50% reduction in the number of monthly migraine days (MMD). A hypothetical cohort of patients with EM with one or more prior preventive treatment failures and patients with CM with more than two treatment failures was considered. The effectiveness score was measured as an incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained and cost per migraine day (MD) avoided. Data from clinical outcomes and patient characteristics were obtained from erenumab clinical trials (NCT02066415, STRIVE, ARISE, LIBERTY and HER-MES). Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to validate the robustness of the model.

Results

After a 10-year follow-up, the estimated QALYs were 5.88 and 6.11 for patients with EM treated with topiramate and erenumab, respectively. Erenumab showed an incremental cost per patient of €4,420 vs topiramate. For CM patients, erenumab resulted in 0.756 QALYs gained vs placebo; and an incremental cost of €1,814. Patients treated with erenumab achieved reductions in MD for both EM and CM (172 and 568 MDs, respectively). The incremental cost per QALY gained with erenumab was below the Spanish threshold of €30,000/QALY for both health and societal perspectives (EM €19,122/QALY and CM €2,398/QALY).

Conclusions

Erenumab is cost-effective versus topiramate as a preventive treatment for EM and versus placebo for patients with CM from the perspective of the Spanish National Health System.
Using team-based precision medicine to advance understanding of rare genetic brain disorders
Authors: Walkley Steven U. , Molholm Sophie , Jordan Bryen , Marion Robert W. , Wasserstein Melissa
Published: March 2024

We describe a multidisciplinary teamwork approach known as “Operation IDD Gene Team” developed by the Rose F. Kennedy Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center (RFK IDDRC) at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. This initiative brings families affected by rare genetic diseases that cause intellectual and developmental disability together with physicians, basic scientists, and their trainees. At team meetings, family members share their child’s medical and personal history, physicians describe the broader clinical consequences of the condition, and scientists provide accessible tutorials focused on the fundamental biology of relevant genes. When appropriate, possible treatment approaches are also discussed. The outcomes of team meetings have been overwhelmingly positive, with families not only expressing deep gratitude, but also becoming empowered to establish foundations dedicated to their child’s specific condition. Physicians, and in particular the scientists and their trainees, have gained a deeper understanding of challenges faced by affected families, broadening their perspective on how their research can extend beyond the laboratory. Remarkably, research by the scientists following the Gene Team meetings have often included focus on the actual gene variants exhibited by the participating children. As these investigations progress and newly created foundations expand their efforts, national as well as international collaborations are forged. These developments emphasize the importance of rare diseases as windows into previously unexplored molecular and cellular processes, which can offer fresh insights into both normal function as well as more common diseases. Elucidating the mechanisms of and treatments for rare and ultra-rare diseases thus has benefits for all involved—families, physicians, and scientists and their trainees, as well as the broader medical community. While the RFK IDDRC’s Operation IDD Gene Team program has focused on intellectual disabilities affecting children, we believe it has the potential to be applied to rare genetic diseases impacting individuals of any age and encompassing a wide variety of developmental disorders affecting multiple organ systems.
Why do we rely on cars? Car dependence assessment and dimensions from a systematic literature review
Authors: Sierra Muñoz Jaime , Duboz Louison , Pucci Paola , Ciuffo Biagio
Published: March 2024

“Car dependence” emerges as an academic concept supported by decades of multidisciplinary research, which aims to understand the factors that drive car-based choices. The variety of approaches and indicators used to interpret this phenomenon underscores its multidimensionality and highlights the necessity for a comprehensive framework to define and operationalise it. This paper contributes to this goal by conducting a systematic literature review that examines the indicators, associations, and meanings used by research in defining and quantifying car dependence. Results show that car dependence has been mainly studied considering transport demand, despite criticisms pointing out to the need of including accessibility and subjective perceptions as well. As a consequence, the paper proposes a holistic approach to the term car dependence by proposing six dimensions covering the full spectrum of the concept as presented in the academic literature. The findings also suggest to move towards harmonising measures of the concept, which would facilitate the development of policies and the assessment of their effectiveness.
Far-red light modulates grapevine growth by increasing leaf photosynthesis efficiency and triggering organ-specific transcriptome remodelling
Authors: Kong Junhua , Zhao Yan , Fan Peige , Wang Yongjian , Xu Xiaobo , Wang Lijun , Li Shaohua , Duan Wei , Liang Zhenchang , Dai Zhanwu
Published: March 2024

Background

Growing evidence demonstrates that the synergistic interaction of far-red light with shorter wavelength lights could evidently improve the photosynthesis efficiency of multiple species. However, whether/how far-red light affects sink organs and consequently modulates the source‒sink relationships are largely unknown.

Results

Here, equal intensities of white and far-red lights were added to natural light for grape plantlets to investigate the effects of far-red light supplementation on grapevine growth and carbon assimilate allocation, as well as to reveal the underlying mechanisms, through physiological and transcriptomic analysis. The results showed that additional far-red light increased stem length and carbohydrate contents in multiple organs and decreased leaf area, specific leaf weight and dry weight of leaves in comparison with their counterparts grown under white light. Compared to white light, the maximum net photosynthetic rate of the leaves was increased by 31.72% by far-red light supplementation, indicating that far-red light indeed elevated the photosynthesis efficiency of grapes. Transcriptome analysis revealed that leaves were most responsive to far-red light, followed by sink organs, including stems and roots. Genes related to light signaling and carbon metabolites were tightly correlated with variations in the aforementioned physiological traits. In particular, VvLHCB1 is involved in light harvesting and restoring the balance of photosystem I and photosystem II excitation, and VvCOP1 and VvPIF3, which regulate light signal transduction, were upregulated under far-red conditions. In addition, the transcript abundances of the sugar transporter-encoding genes VvSWEET1 and VvSWEET3 and the carbon metabolite-encoding genes VvG6PD, VvSUS7 and VvPGAM varied in line with the change in sugar content.

Conclusions

This study showed that far-red light synergistically functioning with white light has a beneficial effect on grape photosystem activity and is able to differentially affect the growth of sink organs, providing evidence for the possible addition of far-red light to the wavelength range of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR).