bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparative View on Social Work Education and Practices as Art and Science for China and the USA
Authors: Zhang Qingning , Tan Weihua , Lian Furong , Lee Serge C 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This article provides a comparative view about the current state of social work education in China and the USA. Social work was established in the USA in 1898 and 1920 in China. In the USA, social work has been revolving in the last 122 years while in China, after the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, social work was abolished from all higher education institutions. The official year that the Master of Social Work programme was reinstituted in China was 2009; and the first graduate cohort began in 2010. In this globalised twenty-first century, this article also includes how the USA and China can make social work education and its practices as art and science.
Gys1antisense therapy rescues neuropathological bases of murine Lafora disease
Authors: Ahonen Saija , Nitschke Silvia , Grossman Tamar R , Kordasiewicz Holly , Wang Peixiang , Zhao Xiaochu , Guisso Dikran R , Kasiri Sahba , Nitschke Felix , Minassian Berge A 
Published: May 2021

AbstractLafora disease is a fatal progressive myoclonus epilepsy. At root, it is due to constant acquisition of branches that are too long in a subgroup of glycogen molecules, leading them to precipitate and accumulate into Lafora bodies, which drive a neuroinflammatory response and neurodegeneration. As a potential therapy, we aimed to downregulate glycogen synthase, the enzyme responsible for glycogen branch elongation, in mouse models of the disease. We synthesized an antisense oligonucleotide (Gys1-ASO) that targets the mRNA of the brain-expressed glycogen synthase 1 gene (Gys1). We administered Gys1-ASO by intracerebroventricular injection and analysed the pathological hallmarks of Lafora disease, namely glycogen accumulation, Lafora body formation, and neuroinflammation. Gys1-ASO prevented Lafora body formation in young mice that had not yet formed them. In older mice that already exhibited Lafora bodies, Gys1-ASO inhibited further accumulation, markedly preventing large Lafora bodies characteristic of advanced disease. Inhibition of Lafora body formation was associated with prevention of astrogliosis and strong trends towards correction of dysregulated expression of disease immune and neuroinflammatory markers. Lafora disease manifests gradually in previously healthy teenagers. Our work provides proof of principle that an antisense oligonucleotide targeting the GYS1 mRNA could prevent, and halt progression of, this catastrophic epilepsy.
A Synthetic DNA Construct to Evaluate the Recovery Efficiency of Cell-Free DNA Extraction and Bisulfite Modification
Authors: Goh Su Kah , Cox Daniel R A , Wong Boris Ka Leong , Musafer Ashan , Witkowski Tom , Do Hongdo , Muralidharan Vijayaragavan , Dobrovic Alexander 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
Despite improvements in the genetic and epigenetic analysis of cell-free DNA (cfDNA), there has been limited focus on assessing the preanalytical variables of recovery efficiency following cfDNA extraction and bisulfite modification. Quantification of recovery efficiency after these steps can facilitate quality assurance and improve reliability when comparing serial samples.

Methods
We developed an exogenous DNA Construct to Evaluate the Recovery Efficiency of cfDNA extraction and BISulfite modification (CEREBIS) after cfDNA extraction and/or subsequent bisulfite modification from plasma. The strategic placement of cytosine bases in the 180 bp CEREBIS enabled PCR amplification of the construct by a single primer set both after plasma DNA extraction and following subsequent bisulfite modification.

Results
Plasma samples derived from 8 organ transplant donors and 6 serial plasma samples derived from a liver transplant recipient were spiked with a known number of copies of CEREBIS. Recovery of CEREBIS after cfDNA extraction and bisulfite modification was quantified with high analytical accuracy by droplet digital PCR. The use of CEREBIS and quantification of its recovery was useful in identifying problematic extractions. Furthermore, its use was shown to be invaluable towards improving the reliability of the analysis of serial samples.

Conclusions
CEREBIS can be used as a spike-in control to address the preanalytical variable of recovery efficiency both after cfDNA extraction from plasma and following bisulfite modification. Our approach can be readily implemented and its application may have significant benefits, especially in settings where longitudinal quantification of cfDNA for disease monitoring is necessary.
BENviewer: a gene interaction network visualization server based on graph embedding model
Authors: Liu Yunqing , Zhu Yunchi , He Chunpeng , Lu Zuhong 
Published: May 2021

AbstractBENviewer is a brand-new online gene interaction network visualization server based on graph embedding models. With mature graph embedding algorithms applied on several interaction network databases, it provides human-friendly 2D visualization based on more than 2000 biological pathways, and these results present not only genes involved but also tightness of interactions in an intuitive way. As a unique visualization server introducing graph embedding application for the first time, it is expected to help researchers gain deeper insights into biological networks beyond generating results explainable by existing knowledge. Additionally, operation flow for users is simplified to greater extent in its current version; meanwhile URL optimization contributes to data acquisition in batch for further analysis. BENviewer is freely available at http://www.bmeonline.cn/BENviewer, besides it is open-sourced at https://github.com/SKLB-lab/BENviewer, http://benviewer.bmeonline.cn.
Empiric proton pump inhibitor therapy after esophageal food impaction may mask eosinophilic esophagitis diagnosis at follow-up
Authors: Hillman Luke , Donohue Sarah , Broman Aimee Teo , Hoversten Patrick , Gaumnitz Eric , Lomeli Luis 
Published: May 2021

SummaryEsophageal food impaction (EFI) is often the first presentation for patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE); however, there is significant heterogeneity in the management of EFI. We aimed to study the impact of EFI management, particularly post-EFI medication prescriptions on EoE diagnosis, follow-up, and recurrence in patients with endoscopic features of EoE. In our retrospective study, adults presenting between 2007 and 2017 with EFI requiring endoscopic dis-impaction with endoscopic features of EoE (furrows, rings, and/or exudates) were included. We examined the impact of demographics and EFI management on EoE diagnosis, follow-up (esophagogastroduodenoscopy [EGD] or clinic visit within 6 months), and recurrence. We identified 164 cases of EFI due to suspected EoE. Biopsy was performed in 68 patients (41.5%), and 144 patients (87.8%) were placed on proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and/or swallow corticosteroids after EFI, including 88.5% of those not biopsied. PPI use at time of biopsy was negatively associated with EoE diagnosis (odds ratio: 0.39, confidence interval: 0.17–0.85). Sixty-one (37.4%) patients were lost to follow-up at 6 months. Recurrent EFI at 1 year occurred in 3.7% of patients. Medications, most commonly PPI, are frequently prescribed after EFI when the endoscopic features of EoE are present, which may mask the diagnosis of EoE on follow-up EGD. We estimated that for every five patients biopsied on PPI, one case of EoE is masked. As recurrent EFI within 1 year is uncommon, empiric therapy should be avoided until diagnostic biopsies are obtained. Further efforts to reduce loss to follow-up after EFI are also needed.
Risk stratification of ulcer-like projection in uncomplicated acute type B aortic intramural haematoma
Authors: Chen Lyufan , Yang Fan , Liu Jitao , Luo Songyuan , Yuan Hui , Fan Ruixin , Zeng Hongke , Geng Qingshan , Luo Jianfang 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to investigate the morphological evolution and risk stratification of ulcer-like projection (ULP) in patients with uncomplicated acute type B aortic intramural haematoma.

METHODS
A retrospective study was conducted on patients with uncomplicated acute type B intramural haematoma admitted in our institution from January 2015 to June 2020. The primary end points were adverse aortic events (AAE), including aortic rupture, aortic dissection, aortic aneurysm and ULP enlargement.

RESULTS
The study cohort comprised 140 patients, including 62 (44%) and 78 (56%) patients with and without initial ULP, respectively. AAE occurred in 13 patients (9%) in the early term and 42 patients (33%) in the mid-term. Compared with patients without ULP, patients with initial ULP had no significant difference in early outcomes but a higher mid-term AAE rate [8% vs 11%, odds ratio (OR) 1.5, P = 0.47; 17% vs 55%, OR 6.0, P &lt; 0.001]. Significantly higher AAE rate was observed in patients with high-risk ULP (depth ≥5.0 mm and located in the proximal aortic segments) than those with only low-risk ULP (depth &lt;5.0 mm and/or located in the distal aortic segments) (87% vs 51%, OR 6.2, P = 0.014). In the multivariable analysis, high-risk ULP was an independent predictor of AAE (hazard ratio 2.8, P = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS
High-risk ULP is a rapidly evolving entity and a marker of AAE despite optimal medical therapy. Therefore, close follow-up and prompt intervention are recommended for patients with high-risk ULP.
Lower risk of stroke after alcohol abstinence in patients with incident atrial fibrillation: a nationwide population-based cohort study
Authors: Lee So-Ryoung , Choi Eue-Keun , Jung Jin-Hyung , Han Kyung-Do , Oh Seil , Lip Gregory Y H 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Aims
The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between alcohol consumption status (and its changes) after newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation (AF) and the risk of ischaemic stroke.

Methods and results
Using the Korean nationwide claims and health examination database, we included subjects who were newly diagnosed with AF between 2010 and 2016. Patients were categorized into three groups according to the status of alcohol consumption before and after AF diagnosis: non-drinkers; abstainers from alcohol after AF diagnosis; and current drinkers. The primary outcome was incident ischaemic stroke during follow-up. Non-drinkers, abstainers, and current drinkers were compared using incidence rate differences after the inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). Among a total of 97 869 newly diagnosed AF patients, 51% were non-drinkers, 13% were abstainers, and 36% were current drinkers. During 310 926 person-years of follow-up, 3120 patients were diagnosed with incident ischaemic stroke (10.0 per 1000 person-years). At 5-year follow-up, abstainers and non-drinkers were associated with a lower risk for stroke than current drinkers (incidence rate differences after IPTW, −2.03 [−3.25, −0.82] for abstainers and −2.98 [−3.81, −2.15] for non-drinkers, per 1000 person-years, respectively; and incidence rate ratios after IPTW, 0.75 [0.70, 0.81] for non-drinkers and 0.83 [0.74, 0.93] for abstainers, respectively).

Conclusion
Current alcohol consumption was associated with an increased risk of ischaemic stroke in patients with newly diagnosed AF, and alcohol abstinence after AF diagnosis could reduce the risk of ischaemic stroke. Lifestyle intervention, including attention to alcohol consumption, should be encouraged as part of a comprehensive approach to AF management to improve clinical outcomes.
Multiple house occupancy is associated with mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19
Authors: Bruce Eilidh , Carter Ben , Quinn Terence J , Verduri Alessia , Pearson Oliver , Vilches-Moraga Arturo , Price Angeline , McGovern Aine , Evans Louis , McCarthy Kathryn , Hewitt Jonathan , Moug Susan , Myint Phyo K ,   COPE Study Team
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries mandated staying at home to reduce transmission. This study examined the association between living arrangements (house occupancy numbers) and outcomes in COVID-19.

Methods
Study population was drawn from the COPE study, a multicentre cohort study. House occupancy was defined as: living alone; living with one other person; living with multiple other people; or living in a nursing/residential home. Outcomes were time from admission to mortality and discharge (Cox regression), and Day 28 mortality (logistic regression) analyses were adjusted for key comorbidities and covariates including admission: age, sex, smoking, heart failure, admission C-reactive protein (CRP), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, estimated glomerular filtration rate, frailty and others.

Results
A total of 1584 patients were included from 13 hospitals across UK and Italy: 676 (42.7%) were female, 907 (57.3%) were male, median age was 74 years (range: 19–101). At 28 days, 502 (31.7%) had died. Median admission CRP was 67, 82, 79.5 and 83 mg/l for those living alone, with someone else, in a house of multiple occupancy and in a nursing/residential home, respectively. Compared to living alone, living with anyone was associated with increased mortality: within a couple [adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) = 1.39, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.09–1.77, P = 0.007]; living in a house of multiple occupancy (aHR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.17–2.38, P = 0.005); and living in a residential home (aHR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.03–1.80, P = 0.031).

Conclusion
For patients hospitalized with COVID-19, those living with one or more people had an increased association with mortality, they also exhibited higher CRP indicating increased disease severity suggesting they delayed seeking care.
Frailty screening in older adults: is annual screening necessary in primary care?
Authors: Lee Linda , Jones Aaron , Hillier Loretta M , Costa Andrew , Patel Tejal , Parikh Ruchi 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
The Case-finding for Complex Chronic Conditions in Adults 75+ (C5-75) involves annual frailty screening in primary care using dual-trait screening measures of handgrip strength and gait speed, with additional screening for co-existing conditions in those deemed frail.

Objective
To identify low-risk individuals who could be screened for frailty every 2 years, rather than annually.

Methods
This study examined a prospective cohort of patients who completed at least two annual C5-75 screenings between April 2014 and December 2018. Handgrip strength and gait speed on initial assessment were categorized based on proximity to frailty thresholds and were used to predict frailty risk on the second assessment. We used Fisher’s exact test to assess differences in risk. Logistic regression models tested associations between independent variables of age, patient activity level, falls history, grip strength and gait speed on first assessment and dependent variable of frailty on subsequent assessment.

Results
Analyses included 571 patients with two annual assessments. Frailty risk on the second assessment was significantly higher for patients who had gait speed or grip strength within 20% of the frailty threshold (5.7%), compared with the other categories (0.7%, 0.9%, 0%; P = 0.002); 60% of patients fell within these lower risk categories. Controlling for grip strength and gait speed, no other measures had significant associations with frailty risk.

Conclusions
Our results demonstrate that 60% patients are at low risk (&lt;1%) of transitioning to frailty by the next annual assessment. Reducing screening frequency from annually to every 2 years may be appropriate for these patients.
Knowledge exchange under asymmetric information in emerging economies: impact of signals from Indian universities
Authors: Ray Amit S , Sengupta Abhijit 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Emerging and developing countries are characterized by severe information asymmetries in knowledge markets, which when combined with other institutional weaknesses, lead to very low levels of interactions between universities and industry. Using data from a sample of Indian universities, we identify university-specific publicly available organizational characteristics which, acting as “signals,” may reduce the information asymmetry problem and catalyze knowledge exchange (KE) partnerships. We find that strength of passive signals such as university ownership structure and reputation, and active ones such as volume of patents filed, impacts a university’s KE performance positively. The impact of each signal is very KE channel specific, and the magnitude of this impact is large. We also find that signal strength negatively moderates the direct linkage between research and KE, implying that signaling is more relevant for universities where there is greater separation of its research outputs and KE performance.
The characteristics of distal tears affect false lumen thrombosis rate after thoracic endovascular aortic repair for acute type B dissection
Authors: Li Da , Yuan Ding , Peng Liqing , Zheng Tinghui , Fan Yubo 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
A low false lumen thrombosis rate (FLTR) is common in patients with type B aortic dissection after they have undergone thoracic endovascular aortic repair, which indicates a poor long-term prognosis. This study aimed to establish a quantitative linear regression model to predict false lumen (FL) thrombosis accurately using morphological parameters.

METHODS
In this retrospective study, we included 59 patients diagnosed with acute type B aortic dissection between 2014 and 2017. Morphological parameters were measured. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were performed, and a linear regression model relating FLTR with the number of re-entry tears was proposed. Ten patients were further chosen to validate the linear relationship, and idealized aortic dissection models were adopted for haemodynamic analysis.

RESULTS
Only the total area and number of re-entry tears were negatively correlated with FL thrombosis (P &lt; 0.001). Moreover, based on the univariable regression, the number of re-entry tears played a more crucial role in FLTR (R2 = 0.509 vs R2 = 0.298), and the linear relationship model was created as follows: thrombosis rate (%) = −11.25 × distal tear number + 105.24. This model was perfectly matched in 10 patients (concordance correlation coefficient = 0.880, P = 0.947). Moreover, when the total area of re-entry tears was constant, the net blood flow increased rapidly with an increase in the tear count.

CONCLUSIONS
The number of re-entry tears could be a crucial related factor of FL thrombosis; the larger the number of re-entry tears is, the lower the possibility of thrombosis is.
Data and Safety Monitoring of COVID-19 Vaccine Clinical Trials
Authors: Joffe Steven , Babiker Abdel , Ellenberg Susan S , Fix Alan , Griffin Marie R , Hunsberger Sally , Kalil Jorge , Levine Myron M , Makgoba Malegapuru W , Moore Reneé H , Tsiatis Anastasios A , Whitley Richard 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
To speed the development of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, the United States Federal Government has funded multiple phase 3 trials of candidate vaccines. A single 11-member data and safety monitoring board (DSMB) monitors all government-funded trials to ensure coordinated oversight, promote harmonized designs, and allow shared insights related to safety across trials. DSMB reviews encompass 3 domains: (1) the conduct of trials, including overall and subgroup accrual and data quality and completeness; (2) safety, including individual events of concern and comparisons by randomized group; and (3) interim analyses of efficacy when event-driven milestones are met. Challenges have included the scale and pace of the trials, the frequency of safety events related to the combined enrollment of over 100 000 participants, many of whom are older adults or have comorbid conditions that place them at independent risk of serious health events, and the politicized environment in which the trials have taken place.
Modeling the Impacts of Clinical Influenza Testing on Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness Estimates
Authors: Feldstein Leora R , Ferdinands Jill M , Self Wesley H , Randolph Adrienne G , Aboodi Michael , Baughman Adrienne H , Brown Samuel M , Exline Matthew C , Clark Files D , Gibbs Kevin , Ginde Adit A , Gong Michelle N , Grijalva Carlos G , Halasa Natasha , Khan Akram , Lindsell Christopher J , Newhams Margaret , Peltan Ithan D , Prekker Matthew E , Rice Todd W , Shapiro Nathan I , Steingrub Jay , Talbot H Keipp , Halloran M Elizabeth , Patel Manish 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
Test-negative design studies for evaluating influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) enroll patients with acute respiratory infection. Enrollment typically occurs before influenza status is determined, resulting in over-enrollment of influenza-negative patients. With availability of rapid and accurate molecular clinical testing, influenza status could be ascertained before enrollment, thus improving study efficiency. We estimate potential biases in VE when using clinical testing.

Methods
We simulate data assuming 60% vaccinated, 25% of those vaccinated are influenza positive, and VE of 50%. We show the effect on VE in 5 scenarios.

Results
Vaccine effectiveness is affected only when clinical testing preferentially targets patients based on both vaccination and influenza status. Vaccine effectiveness is overestimated by 10% if nontesting occurs in 39% of vaccinated influenza-positive patients and 24% of others. VE is also overestimated by 10% if nontesting occurs in 8% of unvaccinated influenza-positive patients and 27% of others. Vaccine effectiveness is underestimated by 10% if nontesting occurs in 32% of unvaccinated influenza-negative patients and 18% of others.

Conclusions
Although differential clinical testing by vaccine receipt and influenza positivity may produce errors in estimated VE, bias in testing would have to be substantial and overall proportion of patients tested would have to be small to result in a meaningful difference in VE.