bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The frailty and falling in related with functional performance, balance and physical activity in elderly during Covid-19 pandemics
Authors: Utku G , Akinci B , Yilmaz E , Erdinc E , Atmaca I , Gurlek E , Ozdincler A 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Background
Falls and frailty are main causes of morbidity and frequenty associated with functional performance, balance and physical activity. The restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic force the elderly to spend most of their time at home which may cause further functional problems. Therefore, identifying the risk factors during the pandemic can help to prevent the elderly from frailty and falls. Aim: Our aims are to investigate the clinical frailty profile and falls in relation to functional performance, balance, fear of falling and physical activity and to compare these parameters of the elderly with and without falling history during the COVID-19 pandemics. Method: Thirty-three participants aged 65-85 (mean = 71.33 ± 5.35/years, 20 women, 13 men) who have never had COVID-19 were included in the study. The participants were invited to an online video-conference based assessment. The number of falls during the last year were asked. Clinical frailty severity was assessed with Clinical Frailty Scale. The fear of falling were assessed using Falls Efficacy Scale (FES). The functional performance of the participants were tested with 30 seconds Sit-to-Stand test. The balance and mobility was evaluated with Timed-Up and Go test in a 3 meter corridor. The physical activity level of the participants were questioned using International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF) and vigorous level of physical activity (VPA), moderate level of physical activity (MPA) and walking were also calculated. Results: The mean scores of the outcomes among participants were shown in Table 1. Clinical frailty was significantly higher in women compared to men (p = 0.08). Clinical frailty score, fear of falling and sit to stand performance were significantly worse in fallers. There were negative weak to moderate correlations between frailty and sit to stand performance (p = 0.001) and MPA (p = 0,016). The clinical frailty was also positively correlated with FES (p &lt; 0.001). FES showed positive correlation with Time-Up and Go performance (p = 0.001) and negative correlation with sit to stand performance (p &lt; 0.001) and MPA (p = 0,036). Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that; clinical frailty, fear of falling and sit to stand performance were associated with the fall history in elderly. In addition, clinical frailty score were higher in women. Our results indicate that, people who have fall history may tend to be frailer and may have lower functional performance, balance and physical activity. The encouragement of the elderly to increased physical activity and exercise program may decrease the frailty score and falling risk especially in elderly women during COVID-19 pandemics.
Co-designing digital cardiac rehabilitation with patients living in rural and remote australia - the country heart attack prevention project
Authors: Nesbitt KATIE , Beleigoli A , Du H , Clark RA , Tirimacco R 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Co-sponsored National health Medical Partnership Grant

OnBehalf
the country heart attack prevention project
Background/significance. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) significantly reduces death, reoccurring cardiac events, hospital admissions while improving quality of life. However, it is still poorly attended with participation rates worldwide between 20-50%, worsened for rural and remote patients by the tyranny of distance, work responsibilities and transportation. Web-based CR can provide an alternative, patient centred, flexible delivery option. Co-design with consumers and clinicians is recommended to tailor web-based CR to their needs and preferences as a means of increasing attendance.
Purpose. The objective of this study is to describe how patient-generated data through workshops on desired content and features informs technology and implementation specifications for the patient portal of a CR website.
Methods. UX Design theoretical framework, using a co-design workshop, with thematic analysis, a survey, and the System Usability Scale was used to report outcomes.
Results. Based on the feedback from participants in rural and remote SA, desired content and features were updated for improving user experience. We recruited 27 participants across 4 regional Local health Networks in SA. The median age of participants was 71.0 (IQR 58-78), 14 (51.9%) were female and 27 (100%) had completed a cardiac rehabilitation program. More than half used a smart phone (16; 59.3%) and Facebook (21; 77.8%). Overall usability remains low based on a mean SUS score of 63.4 (SD 21.1), however there was a tendency to usability improving over time.
Conclusion. The co-design process has contributed to the development of the CR website, improving desired content and features. Improved usability scores can be achieved through further incorporating consumer feedback into the development of the CR website.
Developing an implantable cardioverter defibrillator patient education program: preliminary findings of a knowledge translation project
Authors: Forman J , Murtagh E , Cheung J , Macleod S , Chakrabarti S , Lauck S 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Background
The implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) provides effective prevention of sudden cardiac death in select populations. Its impact on quality of life (QOL) is associated with mixed results because of treatment delivery, risks and potential complications. Studies have shown comprehensive education before implantation contributes to informed decision-making and improved QOL. Providing peer support and opportunity to obtain real-life experiences from individuals living with an ICD is pivotal to effective education. Joint leadership with patients is an effective strategy to meet these goals as part of a patient and family-centred approach to care.

Purpose
Our objective was to adapt this knowledge and design an education program co-led by clinicians and patient partners to provide information, support treatment decision, and facilitate patients’ adaptation to living well with an ICD.

Methods
Patient partners with previously implanted ICDs were recruited from a regional network matching volunteers with healthcare providers seeking to engage patients and families in quality care processes. A monthly 1-hour, in-person group education session was developed by the Heart Rhythm Program team. Potential and newly implanted patients from two tertiary sites were invited to attend sessions combining education led by the clinical team and facilitated discussion with the patient co-leads. Participants completed an evaluation questionnaire inclusive of open-ended and Likert scale questions developed by the team. Sessions were halted for three months at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic but resumed solely using a video conferencing platform.

Results
Since implementation in November 2018, there have been 62 in-person attendees and 34 using a virtual videoconferencing platform (female 31%, median age 62 years). All participants who attended in-person reported finding the session helpful with positive comments regarding the ability to have specific questions addressed in an informal, non-stressful environment. Virtual attendees did not complete written evaluations but positive feedback was received regarding session content and satisfaction in the ability to participate virtually. The involvement and contributions of the patient partners were consistently described as the most valuable component. Findings were used in an iterative fashion to inform session format and content.

Conclusion
In the era of patient-centred care and shared decision-making, it is imperative to integrate effective strategies that forefront patient voices and leadership. Transitioning to a virtual method of delivery was highly successful and demonstrated the importance of continuing this knowledge translation project providing practice-ready recommendations to healthcare providers to help address the needs of patients living with an ICD.
Contribution of epididymal epithelial cell functions to sperm epigenetic changes and the health of progeny
Authors: Chen Hong , Alves Maíra Bianchi Rodrigues , Belleannée Clémence 
Published: July 2021

AbstractBACKGROUNDSpermatozoa acquire their motility and fertilizing abilities during their maturation through the epididymis. This process is controlled by epididymal epithelial cells that possess features adapted to sense and respond to their surrounding environment and to communicate with spermatozoa. During the past decade, new intercellular communication processes have been discovered, including the secretion and transport of molecules from the epithelium to spermatozoa via extracellular vesicles (EVs), as well as sensing of the intraluminal milieu by cellular extensions.OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALEThis review addresses recent findings regarding epididymal epithelial cell features and interactions between spermatozoa and the epididymal epithelium as well as epigenetic modifications undergone by spermatozoa during transit through the epididymal microenvironment.SEARCH METHODSA systematic search was conducted in Pubmed with the keyword ‘epididymis’. Results were filtered on original research articles published from 2009 to 2021 and written in the English language. One hundred fifteen original articles presenting recent advancements on the epididymis contribution to sperm maturation were selected. Some additional papers cited in the primary reference were also included. A special focus was given to higher mammalian species, particularly rodents, bovines and humans, that are the most studied in this field.OUTCOMESThis review provides novel insights into the contribution of epididymal epithelium and EVs to post-testicular sperm maturation. First, new immune cell populations have been described in the epididymis, where they are proposed to play a role in protecting the environment surrounding sperm against infections or autoimmune responses. Second, novel epididymal cell extensions, including dendrites, axopodia and primary cilia, have been identified as sensors of the environment surrounding sperm. Third, new functions have been outlined for epididymal EVs, which modify the sperm epigenetic profile and participate in transgenerational epigenetic inheritance of paternal traits.WIDER IMPLICATIONSAlthough the majority of these findings result from studies in rodents, this fundamental research will ultimately improve our knowledge of human reproductive physiopathologies. Recent discoveries linking sperm epigenetic modifications with paternal environmental exposure and progeny outcome further stress the importance of advancing fundamental research on the epididymis. From this, new therapeutic options for infertile couples and better counseling strategies may arise to increase positive health outcomes in children conceived either naturally or with ART.
Norm Contestation and Normative Transformation in Global Peacebuilding Order(s): The Cases of China, Japan, and Russia
Authors: Jütersonke Oliver , Kobayashi Kazushige , Krause Keith , Yuan Xinyu 
Published: July 2021

AbstractFocusing on the disconnect between mainstream “liberal” peacebuilding and the discourses and practices of “new” and “alternative” peacebuilding actors, this article develops a nonbinary approach that goes beyond norm localization to capture the ways in which major powers influence the nature, content, and direction of normative change. Within the context of their bilateral and multilateral contributions to the “global peacebuilding order,” what forms and types of interventions are conceived by these actors as peacebuilding? How, in turn, has the substantive content of their peacebuilding practices (re)shaped norms and narratives in international peacebuilding efforts? Based on extensive empirical research of the peacebuilding policies and activities of China, Japan, and Russia, this article analyzes the way in which these “top-top” dynamics between norms embedded in the liberal narrative and major powers with competing visions can influence peacebuilding as practiced and pursued in host states. In doing so, it brings together research on global norms and peacebuilding studies and offers a simple yet analytically powerful tool to better understand the evolution of global peacebuilding order(s) and the role of rising powers in (re)shaping global governance.
Light Chain Multiple Myeloma: High Serum Free Light Chain Concentrations Portend Renal Damage and Poorer Survival
Authors: Jin Yulan , Savage Natasha M , Bollag Roni J , Xu Hongyan , Singh Gurmukh 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Background
Monoclonal immunoglobulins provide an indication of the tumor burden in patients with plasma cell neoplasms. Higher concentrations of serum free light chains in light chain predominant multiple myeloma have been shown to correlate with a poorer outcome. We examined the correlations of serum free light chain concentrations in light chain myelomas with survival, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and other clinical and pathological parameters.

Methods
Records of patients with light chain multiple myelomas were reviewed. Highest concentration of serum free light chains for each patient were plotted to ascertain an inflection/change point. Survival, eGFR, and other clinical and pathological parameters were compared between the low and high light chain concentration groups.

Results
Plotting serum free light chain concentrations revealed an inflection point at a concentration of 455 mg/L apportioning patients in to 2 subgroups: 39 patients with low light chain concentrations and 26 patients with high concentrations. The high concentration group had more unfavorable pathology in bone marrow examination in terms of higher neoplastic plasma cell burden and high-risk cytogenetics. The survival rate and eGFR in the high concentration group were significantly worse than in the low concentration group.

Conclusions
As noted for light chain predominant multiple myeloma, high serum free light chain concentration in light chain multiple myelomas are associated with higher renal disease burden and shorter survival. Monitoring of serum free light chain concentrations and customizing treatments to address this parameter are warranted.
Lactate-Based Scoring System in the Diagnosis of Necrotizing Fasciitis
Authors: Daniels Marc , Oberländer Henrik , Schiefer Jennifer , Sonnenberg Philipp , Jörres Achim , Lefering Rolf , Fuchs Paul Christian , Seyhan Harun 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare and quickly progressing infection and leads to 100% mortality if untreated. Quick diagnosis and an early and radical surgical treatment are essential for stopping bacterial progression. Unfortunately, the absence of clear clinical signs makes the diagnosis often challenging. Therefore, we searched for easy determinable predictive laboratory markers for NF. This is the first study which includes lactate values in a new score. A retrospective analysis of patients with NF (n = 44) and patients with erysipelas (n = 150) was performed. Lactate values, patients’ demographics, clinical presentations, site of infection, comorbidities, microbiological and laboratory findings, antibiotic therapies, and LRINEC and modified LRINEC scores were analyzed. Logistic regression analysis was used to derive adjusted weights, and final simple point score was assessed with a ROC curve analysis. Patients with NF had a mean age of 57 years and patients with erysipelas 65 years. The median hospital length of stay was 8 and 49 days in patients with erysipelas and NF, respectively. Although only one patient (0.7%) in the group of erysipelas died, the mortality rate of patients with NF was 9/44 (20.5%). The lactate values were statistically significant higher in the NF group, 4.1 vs 2.0 mmol/l (P &lt; .001). The new created CologNe-FaDe-score shows the highest AUC-value with 0.907. With the help of lactate values, the CologNe-FaDe-score consists of easily practicable and highly available parameters, which could sensitize diagnosis.
Surgical outcomes of bone sarcoma of the foot
Authors: Tsuda Yusuke , Fujiwara Tomohiro , Stevenson Jonathan D , Abudu Adesegun 
Published: July 2021

AbstractObjectiveLimb-salvage following resection of bone sarcomas of the foot are challenging due to the complicated anatomy, adjacent neurovascular structures and few durable reconstruction options.MethodsWe retrospectively analysed 50 patients with primary malignant bone sarcoma of the foot who underwent surgery including chondrosarcoma (n = 23), Ewing’s sarcoma (n = 14) and osteosarcoma (n = 13).ResultsMedian follow-up was 68 months. The primary sites were metatarsal (n = 18), phalanges (n = 15), calcaneus (n = 13) and others (n = 4). The 5-year disease-specific survivals were 100, 83 and 83% in chondrosarcoma, Ewing’s sarcoma and osteosarcoma, respectively. Below knee amputation, ray/toe amputation, excision and curettage were performed in 21, 24, 2 and 3 patients, respectively. Below knee amputation was performed in 94% of mid/hindfoot tumours. Surgical margins were wide/radical, marginal and intralesional margin in 42, 5 and 3 patients. Three patients (6%) developed local recurrence, whereas, local recurrence was not observed in patients with wide/radical margins. Postoperative complications occurred in 3 patients (6%; surgical site infection n = 2 and delayed wound healing n = 1). Mean MSTS functional score was 26 points (range, 19–30).ConclusionsGood local control was achieved with acceptable functional outcomes and post-operative complications; almost all mid/hindfoot tumours required below knee amputation achieving wide/radical margins without local recurrence.
Meta-Analysis of Adherence Promotion Interventions in Pediatric Asthma
Authors: Fidler Andrea , Sweenie Rachel , Ortega Adrian , Cushing Christopher C , Ramsey Rachelle , Fedele David 
Published: July 2021

AbstractBackgroundYouth with asthma commonly have suboptimal adherence to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). It is critical to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of ICS adherence promotion interventions and discern which techniques are most effective.ObjectiveThis study aims to (1) quantify the extent to which interventions improve ICS adherence in pediatric asthma, (2) explore differences in effect size estimates based on intervention and study characteristics, and (3) characterize the risk of bias across interventions.MethodsWe conducted literature searches across five databases. Included studies quantitatively measured ICS adherence as an intervention outcome among youth (&lt;18 years old) diagnosed with asthma and were published after 1997. We analyzed aggregate effect sizes and moderator variables using random-effects models and characterized risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration tool.ResultsThirty-three unique studies met inclusion criteria. At post-intervention, the aggregate effect size for pediatric ICS adherence promotion interventions was small but significant (n = 33, g = 0.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.24–0.54); however, the aggregate effect size at follow-up was not statistically significant (n = 6, g = 0.38, 95% CI = −0.08 to 0.83). Method of adherence measurement and intervention format were significant moderators. Most interventions had a high risk of performance bias and an unclear risk of bias in one or more domains.ConclusionsICS adherence promotion interventions are effective among youth with asthma. Additional longitudinal research is needed to quantify a more precise measure of intervention effectiveness over time, and moderators of intervention effectiveness should be reassessed as the literature base expands.
Variations in Nomenclature of Clinical Variants between Annotation Tools
Authors: Park Kyoung-Jin , Park Jong-Ho 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Background
Accurate nomenclature of variants is an essential element for genetic diagnosis and patient care.

Objective
To investigate annotation differences of clinical variants between annotation tools.

Methods
We analyzed 218,156 clinical variants from the Human Gene Mutation Database. Multiple nomenclatures based on RefSeq transcripts were provided using ANNOVAR and snpEff.

Results
The concordance rate between ANNOVAR and snpEff was approximately 85%. Based on the Human Genome Variation Society (HGVS) nomenclature, snpEff was more accurate than ANNOVAR (coding variants, 99.3% vs 84.9%; protein variants, 94.3% vs 79.8%). When annotating each variant with ANNOVAR and snpEff, the accuracy of nomenclature was 99.5%.

Conclusions
There were substantial differences between ANNOVAR and snpEff annotations. The findings of this study suggest that simultaneous use of multiple annotation tools could decrease nomenclature errors and contribute to providing standardized clinical reporting.
A bottom-heavy initial mass function for the likely-accreted blue-halo stars of the Milky Way
Authors: Hallakoun Na’ama , Maoz Dan 
Published: July 2021

ABSTRACT
We use Gaia DR2 to measure the initial mass function (IMF) of stars within 250 pc and masses in the range of 0.2 &lt; m/M⊙ &lt; 1.0, separated according to kinematics and metallicity, as determined from Gaia transverse velocity, vT, and location on the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram (HRD). The predominant thin-disc population (vT &lt; 40 km s−1) has an IMF similar to traditional (e.g. Kroupa) stellar IMFs, with star numbers per mass interval dN/dm described by a broken power law, m−α, and index $\alpha _\textrm {high}=2.03^{+0.14}_{-0.05}$ above m ∼ 0.5, shallowing to $\alpha _\textrm {low}=1.34^{+0.11}_{-0.22}$ at m ≲ 0.5. Thick-disc stars (60 km s−1 &lt;vT &lt; 150 km s−1) and stars belonging to the ‘high-metallicity’ or ‘red-sequence’ halo (vT &gt; 100 km s−1 or vT &gt; 200 km s−1, and located above the isochrone on the HRD with a metallicity [M/H] &gt; −0.6) have a somewhat steeper high-mass slope, $\alpha _\textrm {high}=2.35^{+0.97}_{-0.19}$ (and a similar low-mass slope $\alpha _\textrm {low}=1.14^{+0.42}_{-0.50}$). Halo stars from the ‘blue sequence’, which are characterized by low metallicity ([M/H] &lt; −0.6), however, have a distinct, bottom-heavy IMF, well described by a single power law with $\alpha =1.82^{+0.17}_{-0.14}$ over most of the mass range probed. The IMF of the low-metallicity halo is reminiscent of the Salpeter-like IMF that has been measured in massive early-type galaxies, a stellar population that, like Milky Way halo stars, has a high ratio of α elements to iron, [α/Fe]. Blue-sequence stars are likely the debris from accretion by the Milky Way, ∼10 Gyr ago, of the Gaia-Enceladus dwarf galaxy, or similar events. These results hint at a distinct mode of star formation common to two ancient stellar populations – elliptical galaxies and galaxies possibly accreted early-on by ours.