bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Predictors of work ability and quality of life in older New Zealanders with and without an arthritis diagnosis
Authors: Koreshi Shanika Yoshini , Alpass Fiona 
Published: August 2021

AbstractObjectiveTo determine predictors of work ability and quality of life in a population of older working New Zealanders with and without an arthritis diagnosis.MethodsParticipants aged 55‐85 (Mean = 71 years) were drawn from the New Zealand Health, Work and Retirement study. A cross‐sectional survey was conducted with a sample of N = 1154 (n = 696 with arthritis and matched sample (on gender only) of n = 458 without arthritis).ResultsOlder adults diagnosed with arthritis reported lower levels of work ability and poorer quality of life in comparison with older adults without arthritis. Pain and fatigue were associated with poorer outcomes for all participants. Pain moderated the relationship between arthritis and work ability.ConclusionsAn ageing population will lead to an increase in older workers in the workforce. Chronic age‐related diseases such as arthritis may impact older workers’ ability to continue to work and enjoy a good quality of life.
Comparison between flattening filter‐free (FFF) and flattened photon beam VMAT plans for the whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) with hippocampus sparing
Authors: Ji Tianlong , Sun Lu , Cai Feng , Li Guang 
Published: August 2021

AbstractPurposeTo evaluate and investigate the feasibility of flattening filter‐free (FFF) beam for the whole‐brain radiotherapy (WBRT) with hippocampus sparing.MethodsEighteen patients with volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans in FFF and conventional beam modes were included in this study. The prescribed dose was 30 Gy in 10 fractions. The conformity index (CI), heterogeneity index reported by TPS (HI‐M), and homogeneity index (HI) for planning target volume (PTV) were evaluated. Subsequently, the following parameters for PTV were calculated and compared: D2%, D98%; the mean dose, maximum dose, and minimal dose for OARs. Plan modulation index, total MUs, and the gamma index were used to evaluate the plan quality.ResultsHI‐M results were similar for the two techniques (1.239 vs. 1.247, respectively, p = 0.048); FFF beam plans yielded lower D2% compared to FF beam plans (3,416.3 cGy vs. 3,437.2 cGy, p = 0.22), mean dose (3,177.5 cGy vs. 3,195.2 cGy, p = 0.009), and CI (0.884 vs. 0.876, p = 0.001) for PTV. Significant differences were observed between the two beam modes (FF model vs. FFF model) for the maximum dose (1,612.9 cGy vs. 1,470.2 cGy, respectively, p < 0.001), minimum dose (987.6 cGy vs. 898.8 cGy, respectively, p < 0.001), and the mean dose (1144.4 cGy vs. 1047.3 cGy, respectively, p < 0.001) to the hippocampus, and the maximum dose to the eyes (2,792.6 cGy vs. 2,751.3 cGy, respectively, p < 0.001). The average total MUs for FFF‐VMAT plans was significantly greater than FF‐VMAT plans. However, differences for the plan modulation index and the gamma index were negligible.ConclusionIn comparison with FF beam, the FFF beam mode offers a clear benefit with respect to WBRT with hippocampal sparing.
A retrospective audit of postoperative days alive and out of hospital, including before and after implementation of the WHO surgical safety checklist
Authors: Moore M. R. , Mitchell S. J. , Weller J. M. , Cumin D. , Cheeseman J. F. , Devcich D. A. , Hannam J. A. , Merry A. F. ,   for the CheckWHO group
Published: August 2021

SummaryWe implemented the World Health Organization surgical safety checklist at Auckland City Hospital from November 2007. We hypothesised that the checklist would reduce postoperative mortality and increase days alive and out of hospital, both measured to 90 postoperative days. We compared outcomes for cohorts who had surgery during 18‐month periods before vs. after checklist implementation. We also analysed outcomes during 9 years that included these periods (July 2004–December 2013). We analysed 9475 patients in the 18‐month period before the checklist and 10,589 afterwards. We analysed 57,577 patients who had surgery from 2004 to 2013. Mean number of days alive and out of hospital (95%CI) in the cohort after checklist implementation was 1.0 (0.4–1.6) days longer than in the cohort preceding implementation, p < 0.001. Ninety‐day mortality was 395/9475 (4%) and 362/10,589 (3%) in the cohorts before and after checklist implementation, multivariable odds ratio (95%CI) 0.93 (0.80–1.09), p = 0.4. The cohort changes in these outcomes were indistinguishable from longer‐term trends in mortality and days alive and out of hospital observed during 9 years, as determined by Bayesian changepoint analysis. Postoperative mortality to 90 days was 228/5686 (4.0%) for Māori and 2047/51,921 (3.9%) for non‐Māori, multivariable odds ratio (95%CI) 0.85 (0.73–0.99), p = 0.04. Māori spent on average (95%CI) 1.1 (0.5–1.7) fewer days alive and out of hospital than non‐Māori, p < 0.001. In conclusion, our patients experienced improving postoperative outcomes from 2004 to 2013, including the periods before and after implementation of the surgical checklist. Māori patients had worse outcomes than non‐Māori.
The miRNAs involved in prostate cancer chemotherapy response as chemoresistance and chemosensitivity predictors
Authors: Konoshenko Maria , Laktionov Pavel 
Published: August 2021

AbstractBackgroundReliable molecular markers that allow the rational prescription of an effective chemotherapy type for each prostate cancer patient are still needed. Since microRNAs expression is associated with the response to different types of prostate cancer therapy, microRNAs represent a pool of perspective markers of therapy effectiveness comprising chemotherapy.ObjectivesThe available data on microRNAs associated with chemotherapy response (resistance and sensitivity) are summarized and analyzed in the article.Materials and methodsA review of the published data, as well as their analysis by current bioinformatics resources, was conducted. The molecular targets of microRNAs, as well as the reciprocal relationships between the microRNAs and their targets, were studied using the DIANA, STRING, and TransmiR databases. Special attention was dedicated to the mechanisms of prostate cancer chemoresistance development.Results and discussionThe combined analysis of bioinformatics resources and the available literature indicated that the expression of eight microRNAs that are associated with different responses to chemotherapy have a high potential for the prediction of the prostate cancer chemotherapy response, as found in the experiments and confirmed by the functions of regulated genes.ConclusionAn overview on the published data and bioinformatics resources, with respect to predictive microRNA markers of chemotherapy response, is presented in this review. The selected microRNA and gene panel has a high potential for predicting the chemosensitivity or chemoresistance of prostate cancer and could represent a set of markers for subsequent study using samples of cell‐free microRNAs from different patient groups.
Erectile dysfunction in hyperuricemia: A prevalence meta‐analysis and meta‐regression study
Authors: Totaro Maria , Dimarakis Sotirios , Castellini Chiara , D'Andrea Settimio , Parisi Antonio , D'Amato Federica , Tienforti Daniele , Palazzi Sara , Baroni Marco Giorgio , Francavilla Sandro , Barbonetti Arcangelo 
Published: August 2021

AbstractBackgroundWhether and to what extent an association exists between hyperuricemia and erectile dysfunction (ED) has not yet been fully determined.ObjectiveTo define pooled prevalence estimates and correlates of erectile dysfunction in men with hyperuricemic disorders.Materials and methodsA thorough search of Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases was performed. Data were combined using random‐effects models and the between‐study heterogeneity was assessed by Cochrane's Q and I2 tests. A funnel plot was used to assess publication bias.ResultsOverall, 8 studies included gave information about 85,406 hyperuricemic men, of whom 5023 complained of erectile dysfunction, resulting in a pooled erectile dysfunction prevalence estimate of 33% (95% Confidence Interval: 13–52%; I² = 99.9%). The funnel plot suggested the presence of a publication bias. At the meta‐regression analyses, among the available covariates that could affect estimates, only type 2 diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of erectile dysfunction (β = 0.08; 95% Confidence Interval: 0.01, 0.15, p = 0.025). At the sub‐group analysis, the pooled erectile dysfunction prevalence decreased to 4% (95% Confidence Interval: 0%–8%) when only the largest studies with the lowest prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus were included and increased up to 50% (95% Confidence Interval: 17%–84%) when the analysis was restricted to studies enrolling smaller series with higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus.ConclusionsA not negligible proportion of men with hyperuricemia can complain of erectile dysfunction. While a pathogenetic contribution of circulating uric acid in endothelial dysfunction cannot be ruled out, the evidence of a stronger association between hyperuricemia and erectile dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus points to hyperuricemia as a marker of systemic dysmetabolic disorders adversely affecting erectile function.
Electrocardiographic predictors of early recurrence of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Choi Ji‐Hoon , Kwon Hee‐Jin , Kim Hye Ree , Park Seung‐Jung , Kim June Soo , On Young Keun , Park Kyoung‐Min 
Published: August 2021

AbstractBackgroundElectrical cardioversion (ECV) is an effective method for restoring sinus rhythm after atrial fibrillation (AF). However, early recurrence of AF occurs in a significant number of patients after ECV. This study aimed to identify electrocardiographic (ECG) predictors of early AF recurrence after ECV.MethodsA total of 272 patients with persistent AF undergoing successful ECV were consecutively enrolled in this study. We investigated clinical, echocardiographic, and ECG data. The 12‐lead ECG parameters were measured during sinus rhythm right after ECV using a digital caliper. The early AF recurrence was defined as recurrence within 2 months.ResultsOf the 272 patients, 165 patients (60.7%) experienced an early AF recurrence. Maximum P‐wave duration (PWD) in limb leads (OR: 1.086; 95% CI: 1.019–1.157; p = .012) and P‐terminal force (PTF) in V1 (OR: 1.019; 95% CI: 1.004–1.033; p = .011) were independent predictors of early AF recurrence after ECV. The optimal cutoff value of the maximum PWD in limb leads for predicting early AF recurrence was 134 ms, characterized by 90.3% sensitivity and 72.0% specificity. Likewise, the optimal cutoff value of PTF in V1 was 50 ms × mm, characterized by 80.0% sensitivity and 64.5% specificity.ConclusionA longer PWD (>134 ms) and a larger PTF (>50 ms × mm) were useful predictors of early recurrence of AF after successful ECV in clinical practice. A more effective rhythm control therapy such as catheter ablation or rate control strategy rather than a repeat ECV should be considered.
Tree diversity and carbon stocks in the Itombwe Mountains of eastern DR Congo
Authors: Imani Gérard , Kalume John , Marchant Rob , Calders Kim , Batumike Rodrigue , Bulonvu Franklin , Cuni‐Sanchez Aida 
Published: August 2021

AbstractOur ecological understanding of tropical montane forests in Africa is still limited, particularly in the Albertine Rift. Because of a greater role of environmental filtering at higher elevations, tree species’ richness and aboveground biomass (AGB) is expected to decrease with increasing elevation. However, broader scale patterns are complex and different patterns have also been observed in different mountains. We established eight permanent 1‐ha plots in Itombwe Mountains and sampled all trees ≥10 cm diameter following standard RAINFOR protocols to investigate tree species’ richness, forest structure, and estimated AGB. We also collected and analyzed soil samples to establish how these affected AGB. We identified over 120 tree species, 12 of which were of international conservation concern according to IUCN criteria. Species richness was significantly negatively correlated with elevation. AGB ranged from 268 Mg/ha (submontane) to 396 Mg/ha (middle montane forests), and it was significantly positively correlated with elevation, soil organic matter, and soil organic C and N. We compare Itombwe with other montane forests in the Albertine Rift, to demonstrate their high floristic diversity, high abundance of large stems, and high AGB, insights which are crucial for the future management of these unique forests.Abstract in French is available with online material.
Molecular cytology of the respiratory tract and pleura
Authors: Zhou Fang , Shum Elaine , Moreira Andre L. 
Published: August 2021

AbstractThere is growing evidence that molecular testing is feasible on all types of cytological preparation, which is fortunate as more diagnostic markers and biomarkers for targeted therapies are discovered for use in pulmonary and pleural malignancies. In this article we will discuss the pre‐analytic, analytic, and post‐analytic (interpretive) considerations for successful implementation of molecular tests for diagnostic and predictive markers in respiratory and pleural cytology. The vast majority of laboratories are familiar with, and have validated their molecular protocols for, formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded surgical specimens, which are not directly applicable to cytology specimens. Thus, rigorous validation must be performed for each type of fixative and cytology preparation before it is implemented in the clinical setting.
Alcohol interventions for LGBTQ+ adults: A systematic review
Authors: Dimova Elena D. , Elliott Lawrie , Frankis Jamie , Drabble Laurie , Wiencierz Stacey , Emslie Carol 
Published: August 2021

AbstractIntroductionGender and sexual minority populations are more likely to drink excessively compared to heterosexual and cisgender people. Existing reviews of alcohol interventions focus on specific subgroups within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, queer, questioning or otherwise gender or sexuality diverse (LGBTQ+) population and neither identify their theoretical basis nor examine how interventions are tailored to meet the needs of specific subgroups.MethodsThis systematic review includes published studies reporting the effectiveness of interventions to reduce alcohol use in LGBTQ+ people. The review followed PRISMA guidelines. Quality was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) Quality Assessment Tool.ResultsThe review includes 25 studies, with the earliest published in 2005. The majority (n = 20) focused on men who have sex with men; only two included sexual minority women and three included trans* people. Most studies were conducted in the USA (n = 21) and used a randomised design (n = 15). Five studies were assessed to be of strong quality, seven moderate and 13 weak. Interventions were mainly delivered face‐to‐face (n = 21). The most common approaches used to inform interventions were Motivational Interviewing (n = 8) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (n = 8). Nineteen studies reported a significant reduction in alcohol consumption.Discussion and ConclusionsThis review suggests that for interventions to be effective in reducing alcohol consumption in LGBTQ+ people, they need to be informed by theory and adapted for the target population. Alcohol interventions that focus on sexual minority women, trans* people and people with other gender identities are needed. The findings have implications for professionals who need to identify when gender and/or sexuality are peripheral or central to alcohol use.
Host‐associated differentiation of target pests should be assessed before using gene drive as a pest control tool − an opinion
Authors: Medina Raul F. 
Published: August 2021

AbstractAdvances in gene editing have made feasible the potential use of gene drive for pest control. Ecological risk assessments will certainly be required before this technology can be released into open fields. In this article, I argue for the importance to include host‐associated differentiation (HAD) as part of ecological risk assessment models due to its potential to modulate gene drive spread and risk. Depending on the context, HAD may hamper or facilitate pest control efforts using gene drives. Overlooking HAD may impair pest suppression goals and inflate estimations of effective population sizes, whereas its inclusion within gene drive deployment strategies, as a form of ecological containment, may facilitate gene drive implementation under specific scenarios. Because HAD varies geographically and among closely related species, it will need to be assessed on a case‐by‐case basis. Failure to incorporate HAD within ecological risk assessment models may undermine pest control goals and diminish the accuracy of estimated ecological risks associated with gene drive releases.
Blockade of the interaction between BMP9 and endoglin on erythroid progenitors promotes erythropoiesis in mice
Authors: Yamaguchi Ayami , Hirano Ikuo , Narusawa Shiho , Shimizu Kiyoshi , Ariyama Hiroyuki , Yamawaki Kengo , Nagao Kenji , Yamamoto Masayuki , Shimizu Ritsuko 
Published: August 2021

AbstractBone morphogenetic protein‐9 (BMP9), a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily, plays important roles in the development and maintenance of various cell lineages via complexes of type I and type II TGFβ receptors. Endoglin is a coreceptor for several TGFβ family members, including BMP9, which is highly expressed in a particular stage of differentiation in erythroid cells as well as in endothelial cells. Although the importance of the interaction between BMP9 and endoglin for endothelial development has been reported, the contribution of BMP9 to endoglin‐expressing erythroid cells remains to be clarified. To address this point, we prepared an anti‐BMP9 antibody that blocks the BMP9‐endoglin interaction. Of note, challenge with the antibody promotes erythropoiesis in wild‐type mice but not in a mouse model of renal anemia in which erythropoietin (EPO) production in the kidneys is genetically ablated. While endoglin‐positive erythroid progenitors are mainly maintained as progenitors when bone marrow‐derived lineage‐negative and cKit‐positive cells are cultured in the presence of EPO and stem cell factor, the erythroid‐biased accumulation of progenitors is impeded by the presence of BMP9. Our findings uncover an unrecognized role for BMP9 in attenuating erythroid differentiation via its interaction with endoglin on erythroid progenitors.
Effect of Helicobacter pylori eradication on hyperplastic gastric polyps: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ouyang Yaobin , Zhang Wenjing , Huang Yancheng , Wang Yao , Shao Qing , Wu Xidong , Lu Nonghua , Xie Chuan 
Published: August 2021

AbstractBackgroundThere is increasing evidence that the eradication of Helicobacter pylori leads to the regression of gastric hyperplastic polyps (GHPs). We performed a systematic review with a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials and observational studies that assessed the effects of eradication.Materials and MethodsWe searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases for relevant studies with a combination of the terms “Helicobacter pylori” and “polyps.” The risk ratio was used to compare the effect of H. pylori eradication/treatment on GHP. We also calculated the pooled disappearance rate of GHP in the H. pylori eradication/treatment group and persistent infection group.ResultsWe analyzed data from 6 studies, including 3 RCTs. A total of 58/394 patients were included in the H. pylori treatment/successful eradication group, and 57/302 patients were included in the H. pylori untreated/persistent infection group. The pooled rate of GHP elimination after H. pylori treatment/successful eradication was 59% (95% CI, 43%‐75%)/79% (95% CI, 72%‐86%). H. pylori treatment/successful eradication significantly increased the GHP elimination rate [ITT: (pooled rate: 58% vs. 0%, RR =22.24, 95% CI, 4.51– 109.78, p = 0.0001), PP: (pooled rate: 65% vs. 0%, RR =22.25, 95% CI, 4.52– 109.37, p = 0.0001)/(pooled rate: 79% vs. 9%, RR =26.87, 95% CI, 1.34–540.5, p = 0.03)].ConclusionsOur meta‐analysis showed that after the eradication of H. pylori, most GHPs are eliminated. Moreover, the treatment/successful eradication of H. pylori increased the GHP elimination rate by more than 20 times that in the control group.
Increasing participation by National Health Service knowledge and library services staff in patient and public information: The role of Knowledge for Healthcare, 2014–2019
Authors: Carlyle Ruth , Goswami Louise , Robertson Sue 
Published: August 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe strategy lead for the National Health Service (NHS) knowledge and library services withn the NHS in England is held by Health Education England, working with 184 local NHS libraries based predominantly in hospitalsObjectivesAs part of the strategic framework Knowkedge for Healthcare, the objective was to increase the role NHS knowledge and library services staff play in both indirect an direct support for evidence‐based information for patients and the public.MethodsThe study took an integrated multi‐level approach: encouraging local staff to share their expertise through Task and Finish groups, developing tools, offering training and reviewing levers available through Health Education England's quality assurance role.ResultsBetween 2014 and 2019, the percentage of services supporting patient and public information increased from 27% to 78%. Qualitative evidence demonstrates a wide range of roles played by local services, working either indirectly or directly to ensure access to evidence‐based health information for patients and the public.DiscussionThe study shows the benefits of engaging people with local expertise in developing the skills and resources for system‐wide change.ConclusionSimilar system‐wide change programmes should also consider an integrated approach, involving people, developing tools, offering training and drawing on incentive structures such as quality assurance measures.
In‐situ follicular neoplasia: a clinicopathological spectrum
Authors: Tamber Gurdip S , Chévarie‐Davis Myriam , Warner Margaret , Séguin Chantal , Caron Carole , Michel René P 
Published: August 2021

AimsIn‐situ follicular neoplasia (ISFN) occurs in approximately 2–3% of reactive lymph nodes, and is currently set apart from ‘partial involvement by follicular lymphoma’ (PFL). ISFN can progress to overt lymphoma, but precise parameters with which to assess this risk and its association with related diseases remain incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to explore these parameters.Methods and resultsWe reviewed 11 cases of ISFN and one of PFL between 2003 and 2018. Ten patients had ISFN in the lymph nodes, and one had ISFN in the spleen. Haematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemical stains were reviewed. Involvement of follicles by ISFN was scored with a three‐tier scheme. Of five patients with low ISFN scores, one had chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia, one had mycosis fungoides, and three were free of haematopoietic disease. Among them, four are alive and one was lost to follow‐up. Of the six ISFN patients with high scores, two had concurrent marginal zone lymphomas, one had concurrent diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), one had Castleman‐like disease, one had progressive transformation of germinal centres with IgG4‐related disease, and one had no haematopoietic disease; all are alive except for one who died of concurrent DLBCL. The patient with PFL developed DLBCL 7 years after diagnosis.ConclusionsOn the basis of this limited series, we conclude that only cases with high scores are associated with an overt lymphoma or an abnormal lymphoid process, and that scoring may be a useful parameter with which to assess the risk of associated lymphoma, and deserves further study. We also performed a comprehensive review of the literature.