bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Thought Disorder on Object Sorting Test Is Associated with Executive Dysfunction in Schizophrenia
Authors: Sahithya BR , Rai Shweta , Behere Rishikesh V. 
Published: August 2020

Background: Thought disorder is considered to be central to the core disturbances in schizophrenia and was described by Goldstein as aberrant “concept formation.” Executive dysfunction is another core deficit in schizophrenia. With a greater emphasis on psychopathology in nosological systems, the classical thought disorder receives less prominence. The present study aimed to understand the association between classical thought disorder (aberrant concept formation and concrete abstraction) and executive dysfunction. Methods: Thirty patients with schizophrenia and thirty healthy subjects, matched on age, gender, education, and socioeconomic status, were screened using MINI 5.0, following which they were assessed on object sorting test (OST) and selected tests for executive functions (EFs). Results: Individuals with schizophrenia were found to have significantly decreased performance on all domains of EFs and OST. Total peculiar scores on OST were significantly associated with mental speed, focused attention, and divided attention. Total impoverished scores on OST was significantly associated with focused attention, sustained attention, planning, set shifting, perseveration, and concept formation. Conclusion: Several correlations, among performance on OST and neuropsychological tests, suggest that patterns of responses on OST can point to underlying executive dysfunction. Both thought disorder and executive dysfunction mirror similar constructs. This similarity represents a conceptual bridge between the classical and contemporary descriptions of the core deficits in schizophrenia.
Time to achieving a designated criterion score level: A survival analysis study of test taker performance on the TOEFL iBT® test
Authors: Monfils Lora F. , Manna Venessa F. 
Published: August 2020

This study used survival analysis to examine the patterns and factors associated with time to achieving designated score criteria on a test of English as a foreign language. This was modeled using an extension of the Cox regression model, with two criterion score levels defined as achieving a TOEFL iBT® total test scale score at or above the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) Level B2 and at Level C1, respectively. Factors included in the model were test taker background characteristics including age, gender, native language type, exposure to English, and reason for testing. Additionally, to account for those who tested more than once within the study period, and thus had multiple records, an indicator for order of testing occasion was included in the model. Results indicate that approximately 82% of the test takers in our study sample tested one time in the study period (2014–2016), and the number of repeaters decreased rapidly across occasions. For those who did not achieve the designated criterion scores at first testing, the likelihood of achievement increases with repeated testing, with a somewhat greater effect for the less stringent B2 criterion. Results also indicate that the association of gender with performance differed across levels.
Sorafenib in the treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and microvascular infiltration: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gu Wang , Tong Zhong 
Published: August 2020

Objective Microvascular invasion is shown to be an independent risk factor for liver cancer recurrence. Timely treatment may reduce the recurrence rate and prolong total survival time. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of sorafenib in treating patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and microvascular invasion Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, web of science and Cochrane Library databases for articles published up to December 2019. Two researchers independently reviewed and cross-checked independent reports with sufficient information. A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the impact of sorafenib on mortality in patients with HCC and microvascular involvement. Results Four studies were included in the qualitative and quantitative analyses, comprising 955 cancer events and 505 cancer deaths. Meta-analyses showed that sorafenib treatment was associated with an improved survival rate versus no sorafenib treatment in patients with HCC and microvascular invasion (relative risk 1.369, 95% confidence interval 1.193, 1.570). Conclusions Sorafenib treatment may improve survival in patients with HCC and microvascular invasion. However, due to the potential for residual confounding, the results should be interpreted with caution.
Initial dose recommendation for sirolimus in paediatric kaposiform haemangioendothelioma patients based on population pharmacokinetics and pharmacogenomics
Authors: Chen Xiao , Wang Dong-Dong , Xu Hong , Li Zhi-Ping 
Published: August 2020

Objective Sirolimus has been used to treat paediatric kaposiform haemangioendothelioma patients. However, there is considerable pharmacokinetic variability among individuals, and it is difficult to develop an initial dosing regimen. The goal of the present study is to recommend an initial sirolimus dose in paediatric kaposiform haemangioendothelioma patients based on population pharmacokinetics and pharmacogenomics. Methods This was a retrospective clinical study. A population pharmacokinetics model was established and population characteristics, laboratory test results, drug combinations, and pharmacogenomics were considered as potential covariates. The Monte Carlo method was used to simulate the optimal initial dosage. Results The final covariates that affect sirolimus clearance include weight and the CYP3A5 genotype. The initial dosage of sirolimus for individuals with CYP3A5*3/*3 was 0.20 mg/kg split into two doses for 5 to 60 kg body weight. For individuals with CYP3A5*1, the initial dose was 0.23 mg/kg split into two doses for 5 to 30 kg body weight and 0.20 mg/kg split into two doses for 30 to 60 kg body weight. Conclusion The recommendation for the initial sirolimus dose in paediatric kaposiform haemangioendothelioma patients was based on population pharmacokinetics and pharmacogenomics. This study may provide practical value for sirolimus clinical use in paediatric kaposiform haemangioendothelioma patients.
A Qualitative Descriptive Study: Young Adults’ Experiences With Biofeedback
Authors: Bolin Linda P. , Horne Carolyn E. , Wei Holly 
Published: August 2020

Purpose: This study explored the experiences of young adults who participated in biofeedback training and reported a family history of cardiovascular disease. Design: A qualitative descriptive study design was used. Method: Private semistructured interviews were conducted on a purposive sample. Young adults ( N = 9) were interviewed about their experiences using paced breathing biofeedback training with continuous blood pressure monitoring. Codes were identified across the sample with common themes recorded. Findings: Data analysis yielded four themes: skeptical inquisition, tangible impression, positive health impact, and motivation. Prior to using biofeedback, participants were extremely skeptical of the training. However, all participants found it useful for health maintenance and stress reduction. Conclusions: Biofeedback therapy may be a promising alternative and holistic approach to managing blood pressure and psychological stress in young adults. This is a complementary approach that nurses can incorporate when caring for the holistic needs of young adults.
Dental Age, Agenesis, and Morphology in Patients With Operated Single-Suture Craniosynostoses
Authors: Leinonen Sami , Rice David , Leikola Junnu , Heliövaara Arja 
Published: August 2020

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the dental age, agenesis, and morphology of children with surgically operated single-suture craniosynostoses from orthopantomographs. Design: A single-centered cross-sectional observational archival study. Patients: A sample of 196 Finnish patients with single-suture craniosynostosis without additional birth defects or syndromes (excluding Muenke syndrome) was included in this study. Main Outcome Measures: Dental age was assessed using the method developed by Demirjian et al. and modified by Nyström et al. for the Finnish population. Methods described by Tulensalo et al. and Oehlers et al. were used to study taurodontism and dens invaginatus, respectively. Results: The study sample of 149 patients was divided into 3 groups: patients with sagittal synostosis (n = 103), coronal synostosis (n = 25), and metopic synostosis (n = 21). Orthopantomographs taken on average at ages 8.20 to 8.33 were used. The dental ages in different groups were on average 0.37, 0.60, and 0.66 years ahead of normative values, for sagittal, coronal, and metopic groups, respectively. Tooth agenesis, taurodontism, and invaginated teeth were found in all groups with invaginations having a high prevalence. Peg-shaped upper lateral incisors and one geminated lower lateral incisor were also found. Conclusions: These descriptive data may help improve dental care in patients with single-suture craniosynostosis.
Phase 3 Clinical Trial: Perioperative Use of Nonacog Gamma, a Recombinant Factor IX, in Previously Treated Patients With Moderate/Severe Hemophilia B
Authors: Windyga Jerzy , Timofeeva Margarita , Stasyshyn Oleksandra , Mamonov Vasily , Lamas Castellanos José Luis , Lissitchkov Toshko , Chojnowski Krzysztof , Chapman Miranda , Pavlova Borislava G. , Tangada Srilatha 
Published: August 2020

Hemostatic management is essential for ensuring the safety of patients with hemophilia during surgery. This phase 3, prospective, uncontrolled trial, evaluated hemostatic efficacy, consumption, and safety of a recombinant factor IX concentrate, nonacog gamma (BAX 326, Rixubis® [Baxalta US Inc., a Takeda company, Lexington, MA, USA]), in intraoperative and postoperative settings in previously treated patients (PTPs) with severe or moderately severe hemophilia B undergoing elective surgery (N = 38 surgeries; 21 major, 17 minor). Predefined preoperative hemostatic factor IX levels (80-100% of normal for major and 30-60% for minor surgeries) were maintained for each patient. Intraoperative efficacy was rated as “excellent” or “good” for all surgeries. Postoperative hemostatic efficacy on day of discharge was rated as “excellent,” “good,” and “fair,” respectively, for 29 (76.3%), 7 (18.4%), and 2 (5.3%) surgical procedures. All adverse events were considered unrelated to study drug; most frequently reported was mild procedural pain (9 patients). No thrombotic events, severe allergic reactions, or inhibitor formation were observed. Nonacog gamma was well tolerated and effective for intraoperative and postoperative hemostatic management of PTPs with hemophilia B. NCT01507896, EudraCT: 2011-000413-39
Barriers and Facilitators of Parent Engagement With Health Promotion in Child Care: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation
Authors: Luecking Courtney T. , Dobson Phillip , Ward Dianne S. 
Published: August 2020

Background Early care and education providers cite lack of parent engagement as a central barrier to promoting healthy behaviors among young children. However, little research exists about factors influencing parent engagement with promoting healthy eating and activity behaviors in the this setting. Aims This study aimed to address this gap by examining low and high parent engagement with the Healthy Me, Healthy We campaign to identify barriers and facilitators of parent engagement with the intervention. Method This comparative case study used an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach. We created center-level parent engagement scores using process evaluation data from the effectiveness trial of Healthy Me, Healthy We. Recruitment focused on centers with the five lowest and five highest scores. Twenty-eight adults (7 directors, 9 teachers, 12 parents) from seven centers (3 low engagement, 4 high engagement) completed semistructured interviews and the Family and Provider/Teacher Relationship Quality measure. Analytic approaches included descriptive statistical analyses for surveys and a framework-informed thematic analysis for interviews. Results Prominent contrasts between low- and high-engagement groups involved center culture for parent engagement and health promotion, practices for fostering networks and communication within centers, and communication between centers and parents. Personal attributes of providers (e.g., attitudes) also differentially influenced practices for engaging parents. Discussion and Conclusion Organizational characteristics and individual practices can facilitate or impede parent engagement with health promotion efforts. Assessing organizational context, gaining input from all stakeholders, and conducting capacity-building interventions may be critical for laying the foundation for positive relationships that support parent engagement in implementation of health promotion programs and beyond.
Superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis following coil embolization of posterior communicating artery aneurysm: Report of two cases
Authors: Abri Aghdam Kaveh , Nilforushan Naveed , Zand Amin , Kohansal Rahim 
Published: August 2020

Introduction: The purpose was to present two patients with superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis following coil embolization of posterior communicating artery aneurysm, that have not been reported after this particular procedure yet. Methods: We present two patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage due to posterior communicating artery aneurysms, who were treated with stent-assisted coil embolization. Shortly after the procedure, both cases demonstrated painful proptosis, ophthalmoplegia, increased intraocular pressure, intraretinal hemorrhage and macular edema on the ipsilateral side, with congestion of intraorbital tissues and thickened and dilated superior ophthalmic vein in neuroimaging investigation. The occlusion was confirmed by digital subtraction angiography. Results: Patients were treated with anticoagulant agents and systemic corticosteroids immediately and then received medical treatment by an ophthalmologist for ocular complications of superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis. Conclusion: Isolated superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis (SOVT) is rare, but may be associated with sight-threatening complications. After intracranial interventions on cerebral vessels, clinical features of SOVT including choroidal effusion syndrome should be investigated, and the patients should receive prompt and proper care including ophthalmic medications and systemic anticoagulants to restrict the ocular and systemic complications.
Efficacy of 4% tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (T-EDTA) catheter lock solution in home parenteral nutrition patients: A quality improvement evaluation
Authors: Hill Jocelyn , Garner Rachel 
Published: August 2020

Introduction: A functioning and reliable central venous access device is fundamental for home parenteral nutrition patients to administer essential nutrition. Complications of central venous access devices including occlusion, microbial colonization, and biofilm formation are problematic and sometimes life-threatening. A novel lock solution, 4% tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, has properties that may reduce such complications. Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the safety, efficacy, and cost implications of implementing 4% tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid to prevent catheter-related complications in home parenteral nutrition patients. Methods: A pre- and post-intervention study was carried over 36 months (12 months pre; 24 months post) by the British Columbia Home Parenteral Nutrition Program in Vancouver, Canada, where 4% tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid was implemented for patients at high risk for central venous access device occlusion and catheter-related infection. Patients were included in the study if they had previous central venous access device complications. The outcomes evaluated were central line-associated bloodstream infection, catheter occlusion requiring thrombolytic treatment, and catheter replacements. Results: In total, 22 out of 105 patients met the inclusion criteria. Two patients were excluded from analyses due to non-adherence and concomitant use of other lock solutions. Post intervention, 20 home parenteral nutrition patients experienced significant reduction in the central line-associated bloodstream infection rate (pre = 1.918/1000 catheter days; post = 0.563/1000 catheter days; p = 0.04) There were no occlusion events reported post intervention. Conclusion: For home parenteral nutrition patients, 4% tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid lock solution effectively reduces the risk of central venous access device complications including occlusions and catheter-related infections.
Initial 6-month quality review of a percutaneous endovascular arteriovenous fistula program
Authors: Sultan Sulaiman , Langsfeld Mark , Chavez LeAnn , Fabre Anna , Osofsky Robin , Argyropoulos Christos , Owen Jonathan G 
Published: August 2020

Background: Percutaneous arteriovenous fistulas have recently proven successful alternatives to surgical arteriovenous fistulas with encouraging initial results. The Ellipsys Endovascular Arteriovenous Fistula System utilizing ultrasound and thermal energy has recently received approval for use in the United States. At the University of New Mexico, we developed an integrated service between Vascular Surgery, Interventional Radiology, and Interventional Nephrology for percutaneous arteriovenous fistulas utilizing Ellipsys. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of the initial 6 months (January 1st 2019 to July 1st 2019) of 18 percutaneous arteriovenous fistula placements to evaluate our initial technical success rate, the number of arteriovenous fistulas meeting maturation characteristics or use in dialysis, and to identify areas for quality improvement. Results: Initial technical success was achieved in 17 out of 18 arteriovenous fistulas (94.4%). Three patients did not report for any follow-up at the end of the initial 6 months. Of the remaining patients, 7 out of 15 were using their arteriovenous fistulas or meeting maturation characteristics at the end of the study (46.7%). Patient loss to follow-up/no-show (16.7%), patient not yet requiring hemodialysis (27.8%), and poor post-surgical maturation and/or need for additional maturation procedures (55.6%) were the predominate reasons for non-use. We identified improved coordination of care, early intervention, and outpatient dialysis center education as the primary areas of focus for quality improvement. Conclusion: Initial technical success rate of percutaneous arteriovenous fistulas placement was comparable to published studies. Early and aggressive secondary angiographic interventions of arteriovenous fistulas failing to meet cannulation requirements, improved coordination of post-operative care, and outpatient dialysis center education appear to be the primary targets for quality improvement.
Community Meetings on the Rural Opioid Crisis: Setting a Path Forward by Learning from Others
Authors: Meadowcroft Devon , Whitacre Brian 
Published: August 2020

Objectives: This study implemented a series of meetings in one rural community struggling with the opioid crisis. Set in the town of Ardmore, Oklahoma, these meetings presented local residents who dealt with the crisis as part of their jobs with four categories of programs aimed at preventing and treating opioid-related issues. The ultimate goal was for the participants to develop a consensus about where resources should be appropriated in the future, based off the needs of the area. Methods: Three community meetings were held over a six-week period, with an average of 40 attendees. Data was collected through surveys, study circles, and a participant voting exercise. Surveys were distributed at the beginning and end of the meetings to determine if participant views changed over the course of the study. Study circles broke participants into small groups and prompted them with questions regarding the crisis to encourage group discussion. The participant voting exercise allowed participants to note where they would like future resources to be directed. Findings: Listening to experts and holding group discussions led to changes in opinions for some participants. Most felt that the most pressing need was to provide accessible opioid treatment options in their community. Youth-based prevention efforts were also noted as being a program that the community should focus on. Conclusions: Local perceptions of the most appropriate strategies for combatting the rural opioid crisis can change with group discussions alongside others who are actively involved with this issue. Future research should actively involve affected communities in order to develop relevant and accepted action plans.
Historical and generational forces in the Iridescent Life Course of bisexual women, men, and gender diverse older adults
Authors: Fredriksen Goldsen Karen , Jen Sarah , Clark Theresa , Kim Hyun-Jun , Jung Hyunzee , Goldsen Jayn 
Published: August 2020

Purpose Little is known about the life course of bisexual older adults. This study examines life events and experiences of bisexuals by generation: Pride Generation, born 1950–1964; Silenced Generation, born 1935–1949; and Invisible Generation, born 1934 or earlier, as well as by gender among women, men, and gender diverse older adults. Methods Aging with Pride: National Health, Aging, and Sexuality/Gender Study is the first national longitudinal study of LGBTQ older adults in the US. We utilize the Iridescent Life Course to examine the life events and life course experiences of bisexual older adults ( N = 216) using 2014 survey data. The Iridescent Life Course frames this study for comparing generational and gender differences in five key areas: identity development; work; kin and social relationships; bias-related experiences; and physical and mental health. Findings The Invisible Generation, the oldest generation, compared to the two younger generations, reports significant risks related to social relationships, the lowest levels of openly disclosing, and fewer bias-related experiences. They also demonstrate important signs of resilience and better mental health. Bisexual men and gender diverse older adults report higher rates of bias-related experiences and fewer social resources than bisexual women. Conclusion Based on the Iridescent Life Course, we document important differences in the heterogeneity and intersectionality in bisexual lives, particularly for those in late life and those gender diverse. It is essential to document the distinct nature of bisexuals’ life course, as it provides both historical and contemporary insights into aging and the reframing of future research.
Multilevel governance: Identity, political contestation, and policy
Authors: Kleider Hanna 
Published: August 2020

This commentary takes stock of how Multi-level Governance and European Integration has helped scholars frame empirical research agendas. It focuses on three specific research programmes emanating from the book: (1) the role of identity in multi-level governance, (2) political contestation in multi-level systems, and (3) the effect of multi-level governance on policy outcomes. It aims to highlight existing knowledge in these lines of research whilst offering several critical reflections and directions for future research. The commentary argues that the book’s observation that governance structures are ultimately shaped by identities rather than by efficiency considerations has proved almost prophetic given recent backlash against the EU. The book expertly shows that there is an inherent tension in sharing authority across multiple levels of government, and that multi-level systems require constant recalibration and renegotiation of how authority is shared.