bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Knockout of the
NONO
Gene Inhibits Neointima Formation in a Mouse Model of Vascular Injury
Authors: Xu Xingli , Xu Xinghua , Mao Yang , Lu Lin , Ma Jing , Zheng Tengfei , Zhang Jie , Zhang Meng , Meng Linlin , Ma Lianyue , Cheng Jing , Chen Wenqiang , Jiang Hong , Zhang Yun , Zhang Cheng 
Published: February 2021

Objective:
The NONO (non-POU domain-containing octamer-binding protein) is a multifunctional nuclear protein involved in RNA synthesis, transcriptional regulation, and DNA repair. However, the effect of NONO on neointima induced by vascular injury or restenosis remains unclear. We hypothesized that NONO is required for maintaining vascular integrity and NONO knockout may inhibit neointima formation.

Approach and Results:

NONO
gene KO (knockout; NONO KO or NONO
gt/0
) mice were produced from C57BL/6J mice using the CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat–associated 9) technique. The left common carotid artery of mice was ligated to induce carotid neointima formation. The primary mouse aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were derived from the media of wide-type and NONO
gt/0
mouse aortas for in vitro studies. Human coronary arteries containing atherosclerotic plaque and normal coronary arteries were obtained from body donors. Histological staining demonstrated that NONO expression was increased in human coronary atherosclerotic lesions and mouse ligated carotid arteries. Moreover, the increased NONO was primarily from VSMCs of neointima. Mice with NONO deficiency showed no significant difference in carotid artery structure from control mice. However, after carotid artery ligation, NONO
gt/0
mice exhibited reduced neointima thickness in ligated arteries. NONO deficiency led to decreased proliferation and migration of VSMCs and increased expression of contractile marker genes in neointima and VSMCs. The mechanistic study indicated that NONO interacted with Erk (extracellular regulated kinase) 1/2 in VSMCs and affected its activation in VSMCs, implying Erk signaling cascade might mediate the roles of NONO in VSMCs.

Conclusions:
NONO was not required for maintaining vascular integrity, but NONO knockout reversed the pathological processes mediated by increased proliferation, migration, and phenotypic switching of VSMCs. The mechanism of these effects involved an interaction of NONO and Erk signaling cascade. Thus, inhibition of NONO may provide a novel therapeutic strategy in cardiovascular disease associated with intimal thickening.
Predictors for Failure of Early Neurological Improvement After Successful Thrombectomy in the Anterior Circulation
Authors: Weyland Charlotte S. , Mokli Yahia , Vey Johannes A. , Kieser Meinhard , Herweh Christian , Schönenberger Silvia , Bendszus Martin , Möhlenbruch Markus A. , Ringleb Peter A. , Nagel Simon 
Published: February 2021

Background and Purpose:
Failure of early neurological improvement (fENI) despite successful mechanical thrombectomy in the anterior circulation is a clinically frequent occurrence. Purpose of this analysis was to define independent clinical, radiological, laboratory, or procedural predictors for fENI.

Methods:
Retrospective single-center analysis of patients treated for acute ischemic stroke in the anterior circulation ensuing successful mechanical thrombectomy between January 2014 and April 2019. Patients were compared according to fENI (equal or higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) and ENI (lower National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale at discharge). Thirty-eight variables were examined in multivariable analysis for association with fENI.

Results:

Five hundred forty-nine out of 1146 patients experienced successful recanalization (modified Treatment in Cerebral Ischemia 2c-3). fENI occurred in 115/549 (20.9%) patients. Independent predictors of fENI were premorbid modified Rankin Scale (odds ratio [OR] per point [IC], 1.21 [1.00–1.46],
P
=0.049), end-stage renal failure (OR [IC], 12.18 [2.01–73.63],
P
=0.007), admission glucose (OR [IC], 1.018 [1.004–1.013] per mg/dL,
P
=0.001), bridging IV lysis (OR [IC], 0.57 [0.35–0.93],
P
: 0.024), time from groin puncture to final recanalization (OR [IC], 1.004 [1.001–1.007] per minute,
P
=0.015), general anesthesia during mechanical thrombectomy (OR, 2.41 [1.43–4.08],
P
<0.001), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (OR [CI], 6.81 [1.84–25.16],
P
=0.004), and follow-up Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (OR [IC], 0.76 [0.69–0.84] per point,
P
<0.001). In a secondary analysis, involvement of the regions internal capsule, M4 and M5 (motor cortex) were further independent predictors for fENI. Patients with ENI were more likely to experience a good outcome (modified Rankin Scale on day 90, 0–2: n=229/435 [52.8%] versus n=13/115 [11.3%];
P
<0.001).

Conclusions:
The extent of infarction and the involvement of motor cortex and internal capsule as well as higher premorbid modified Rankin Scale, end-stage renal failure, high glucose level on admission, absence of bridging IV lysis, general anesthesia, and a longer therapy interval are presumably independent predictors for fENI in patients with successful mechanical thrombectomy.
Mapping the Way of St. James
Authors: Perrone Sean T. , Traynor Carol 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Every year, more historians and scholars in related humanities disciplines are using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and mapping technology in their research. The field of spatial history/spatial humanities is growing. Yet, many scholars are still unaware of the potential of using mapping technology to interpret the past and further their academic research. Mapping helps us to see the movement of people and ideas over time and thereby raises new research questions. This article seeks to introduce readers to the field of spatial history and to illustrate the potential of GIS by examining the medieval pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. In particular, the article uses spatial analysis to add further evidence that Aimeric Picaud, the author of the twelfth-century Pilgrim’s Guide to Santiago de Compostela, likely did not make the trip as described in his text.
Ocean Tides near Hawaii from Satellite Altimeter Data. Part I
Authors: Xu Minjie , Wang Yuzhe , Wang Shuya , Lv Xianqing , Chen Xu 
Published: February 2021

AbstractSufficient and accurate tide data are essential for analyzing physical processes in the ocean. A method is developed to spatially fit the tidal amplitude and phase lag data along satellite altimeter tracks near Hawaii and construct reliable cotidal charts by using the Chebyshev polynomials. The method is completely dependent on satellite altimeter data. By using the cross-validation method, the optimal orders of Chebyshev polynomials are determined and the polynomial coefficients are calculated by the least squares method. The tidal amplitudes and phase lags obtained by the method are compared with those from the Finite Element Solutions 2014 (FES2014), National Astronomical Observatory 99b (NAO.99b), and TPXO9 models. Results indicate that the method yields accurate results as its fitting results are consistent with the harmonic constants of the three models. The feasibility of this method is also validated by the harmonic constants from tidal gauges near Hawaii.
A Microcosm of Disparities in Breast Cancer: Comparison Between a Private Hospital and a Safety-Net County Hospital Within Los Angeles County
Authors: McClintock Natalie C. , Ayabe Reed I. , Salas Parra Ruben D. , Kaji Amy H. , Orozco Javier I. J. , Marzese Diego M. , Samuels Estela , Stern Stacey L. , Dauphine Christine , Ozao-Choy Junko J. 
Published: February 2021

Background Breast cancer survival is improving due to early detection and treatment advances. However, racial/ethnic differences in tumor biology, stage, and mortality remain. The objective of this study was to analyze presumed disparities at a local level. Methods Breast cancer patients at a county hospital and private hospital from 2010 to 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic, clinical, pathologic, and surgical data were collected. Comparisons were made between hospital cohorts and between racial/ethnic groups from both hospitals combined. Results 754 patients were included (322 from county hospital and 432 from private hospital). All patients were female. The median age was 54 years at county hospital and 60 years at private hospital ( P < .0001). Racial/ethnic minorities comprised 85% of county hospital patients vs. 12% of private hospital patients ( P < .0001). County hospital patients had a higher grade, clinical/pathologic stage, HER2-positive rate, and mastectomy rate. Compared to other racial/ethnic groups, non-Hispanic white women were more likely to have lower grade and ER-positive tumors. Hispanic/Latina women were younger and were more likely to have HER2-positive tumors. Both Hispanic/Latina and non-Hispanic black women presented at higher clinical stages and were more likely to undergo neoadjuvant chemotherapy and mastectomy. Discussion At county hospital compared to private hospital, the proportion of racial/ethnic minorities was higher, and patients presented at younger ages with more aggressive tumors and more advanced disease. The racial/ethnic disparities that were identified locally are largely consistent with those identified in national database studies. These marked differences at hospitals within a diverse city highlight the need for further research into the disparities.
Mechanisms of Self-Inflicted Injuries at an Urban City Hospital
Authors: Veselsky Steven L. , Poirier Marie-Veronique , Tracy Brett M. , Castater Christine A. , Mehta Christina , Minihan Adair K. , Williams Keneeshia N. , Gelbard Rondi B. , Faloye Abimbola O. , Smith Randi N. 
Published: February 2021

Background Suicide is a major public health issue with root causes including psychological, economical, and societal factors. Methods Retrospective review identified self-inflicted traumatic injuries (SITIs) at Grady Health System between 2009 and 2017. Patients were categorized by penetrating or blunt mechanism of injury (MOI). Outcomes included hospital length of stay (HLOS) and ventilator duration, mortality, and location of death. Results 678 patients in total were identified. Penetrating MOI was most prevalent (n = 474). Patients with a blunt MOI were significantly younger (32 Y vs. 37 Y; P < .0001). Psychiatric illness was equally common between MOI at more than 50%. Penetrating traumas required longer ventilator times (1 D vs. 0 D; P < .0001) but shorter overall HLOS (4 D vs. 6 D; P = .0013). Mortality was twice as high in the penetrating group (29.8% vs. 11.8%; P < .0001). Conclusion Self-inflicted traumatic injuries occurred most often among younger adults and those with history of psychiatric illness. Penetrating traumas result in worse outcomes. Self-inflicted traumatic injuries carry high morbidity and mortality. Improved prevention strategies targeting high-risk groups are needed.
“Death Diamond” Tracing on Thromboelastography as a Marker of Poor Survival After Trauma
Authors: Farrell Michael S. , Moore Ernest E. , Thomas Anthony V. , Coleman Julia R. , Thomas Scott , Vande Lune Stefani , Marconi Thomas , Cohen Mitchell J. , Chapman Michael P. , Moore Hunter B. , Walsh Mark M. , Sixta Sherry 
Published: February 2021

Background Improvements in health care innovations have resulted in an enhanced ability to extend patient viability. As a consequence, resources are being increasingly utilized at an unsustainable level. As we implement novel treatments, identifying futility should be a focus. The “death diamond” (DD) is a unique thrombelastography (TEG) tracing that is indicative of failure of the coagulation system, with a mortality rate exceeding 90%. The purpose of this study was to determine if the DD was a consistent marker of poor survival in a multicenter study population. We hypothesize that the DD, while an infrequent occurrence, predicts poor survival and can be used to stratify patients in whom resuscitation efforts are futile. Methods A retrospective multi-institutional study of trauma patients presenting with TEG DDs between 8/2008 and 12/2018 at four American College of Surgeons trauma centers was completed. Demographics, injury mechanisms, TEG results, management, and survival were examined. Results A total of 50 trauma patients presented with DD tracings, with a 94% (n = 47) mortality rate. Twenty-six (52%) patients received a repeat TEG with 10 patients re-demonstrating the DD tracing. There was 100% mortality in patients with serial DD tracings. The median use of total blood products was 18 units (interquartile range 6, 34.25) per patient. Discussion The DD is highly predictive of trauma-associated mortality. This multicenter study highlights that serial DDs may represent a possible biomarker of futility.
Preprocedural β-Blockers in the Functional Assessment of Intermediate Coronary Lesions by Instantaneous Wave-Free Ratio
Authors: Verdoia Monica , Gioscia Rocco , Nardin Matteo , Viola Orazio , Brancati Marta Francesca , Soldà Pier Luigi , Marcolongo Marco , De Luca Giuseppe 
Published: February 2021

Aim: Instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR) has emerged as the strategy of choice for the assessment of intermediate coronary lesions. The impact of preprocedural β-blockers therapy on the iFR was the aim of this study. Methods: We included patients undergoing functional assessment of intermediate (40%-70%) coronary lesions in 2 centers. The iFR measurement was performed by pressure-recording guidewire and calculated at the core laboratory using the manufacturers’ dedicated software. Minimal luminal diameter, reference diameter, percent diameter stenosis, and length of the lesion were measured. Positive iFR was considered for values <0.90. Results: We included 197 patients undergoing functional evaluation of 223 coronary lesions. Patients on β-blockers (69%) had more frequently hypertension ( P = .05); previous myocardial infarction ( P = .01); therapy with clopidogrel ( P = .02), statins, and aspirin; and acute coronary syndrome at presentation ( P < .001, respectively). Mean iFR values were slightly higher in patients on β-blockers (0.94 ± 0.06 vs 0.92 ± 0.06, P = .11). The rate of positive iFR was significantly lower with β-blockers (14.9% vs 27.5%, P = .04). On multivariate analysis, β-blockers use was a predictor of the significance of coronary stenoses (odds ratio [OR] = 0.48; 95% CI = 0.23-0.98; P = .05) together with lesion length (OR = 1.04; 95% CI = 1.01-1.07; P = .007). Conclusion: Among patients undergoing iFR, preprocedural β-blockers are associated with higher absolute values and a lower rate of positive iFR.
Gray-Scale Inversion on High Resolution Computed Tomography of the Temporal Bone: An Observational Study
Authors: Schwartz Tyler R. , Lindemann Timothy Logan , Mongelluzzo Gino , Wackym P. Ashley , Gadre Arun K. 
Published: February 2021

Objectives: This is a qualitative study to explore the utility of gray-scale inversion or the “invert” function of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans in the diagnosis of temporal bone anatomy and pathology. Methods: This is a case series describing an innovative application of an existing image processing tool to visualize temporal bone anatomy and pathology. Illustrative patients at a tertiary referral center with otologic symptoms and findings leading to HRCT scans of the temporal bone were included. Diagnostic HRCT scans were evaluated utilizing the gray-scale inversion function (invert function). Results: Nine illustrative cases which demonstrate conditions such as persistent stapedial artery, membranous stapes footplate, total ossicular prosthesis migration into the vestibule, third window syndrome such as superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) and cochlea-facial nerve dehiscence, otosclerosis, and ossicular chain discontinuity are included. The enhanced visualization was confirmed surgically in 3 cases, and 1 had physiological confirmation using cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMP). Conclusions: Gray-scale inversion can be used to improve visualization of temporal bone anatomy and pathologic changes when diagnoses are in doubt. The invert function is a useful adjunct in the armamentarium of both radiologists and otologists when evaluating HRCT of the temporal bone.
Adoption of Telemedicine for Multidisciplinary Care in Pediatric Otolaryngology
Authors: Hoi Karen K. , Curtis Stuart H. , Driver Lynn , Wisnosky Erica , Zopf David A. , Bohm Lauren A. 
Published: February 2021

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced a period of social isolation that has challenged the ability of providers to uphold in-person patient care. Although commonplace in pediatric otolaryngology, multidisciplinary clinics pose a unique challenge during this time due to increased infection risk from multiple patient-provider interactions. Guidance on the application of telemedicine for multidisciplinary clinics in pediatric otolaryngology is limited. Methods: We provide comprehensive guidance on best practices for conducting telemedicine visits for a number of multidisciplinary otolaryngology clinics using our experiences at a single tertiary care children’s hospital. A review of literature to support the adoption of telemedicine in multidisciplinary pediatric otolaryngology is also incorporated. Results: Telemedicine was successfully adopted for 7 multidisciplinary pediatric clinics with a variety of specialists: aerodigestive disorders, congenital hearing loss, microtia/aural atresia, orofacial clefting, sleep disorders, tracheostomy care, and velopharyngeal dysfunction. Conclusions: Telemedicine is feasible for a variety of multidisciplinary clinics and its optimization is critical for providing care to complex pediatric otolaryngology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
Careers advancement of women: Applying a multi-level relational perspective in the context of Turkish banking organisations
Authors: Taser-Erdogan Didem 
Published: February 2021

This article investigates the question of why women remain underrepresented in management positions despite their increasing presence in the Turkish banking sector context. By using an integrative framework that brings together the relational and institutional perspectives, this article seeks to understand how macro-level contextual influences reflect on meso-organisational processes and practices, which in turn influence women’s micro-individual career trajectories. This article explores the careers experiences of 49 female banking professionals from three distinct banking organisations (Turkish, western and Islamic). The findings reveal that women’s limited representation at managerial level is an outcome of the interplay between macro-, meso- and micro-level issues. At the macro-level, the article highlights religion-based fragmented social structure as a key factor in the socio-cultural context of Turkey. At the meso-level, the analysis of the three different cases identifies factors relevant to both western and Middle Eastern societal contexts. At the micro-level, the analysis highlights how women’s perceptions of macro-level barriers change depending on their organisational context, emphasising the interrelatedness between these three levels. The article contributes to women’s career literature by providing the Turkish perspective and introducing novel insights into the interplay between societal forces, organisational practices and individuals’ perceptions.
The Contribution of Individual Differences to L2 Pronunciation Learning: Insights from Research and Pedagogical Implications
Authors: Suzukida Yui 
Published: February 2021

Adult second language (L2) learning often exhibits great variability in its rate and outcome. Although research shows that learning trajectories are partly shaped by social and contextual factors (e.g. Larson-Hall, 2008), certain learner factors play an important role in enhancing L2 pronunciation learning by helping L2 learners notice and process input efficiently, whereas certain learner factors may impede L2 pronunciation learning by impairing attention control or slowing down L2 input processing. Therefore, in order for language teachers to provide effective instruction and help students improve their L2 pronunciation proficiency, it is beneficial for them to understand the differential impact of learner characteristics on L2 learning and adapt such understanding to their instruction and learning activities. The aim of the current article is to provide a review of existing studies that have explored individual differences (IDs) in relation to L2 pronunciation acquisition and to present implications for effective L2 pronunciation teaching. The article begins with an introduction of the paradigm shift in L2 pronunciation research and the conceptual framework of IDs proposed by Dörnyei (2009). This is followed by a summary of the processes involved in L2 pronunciation learning. The third section focuses on the characteristics of four IDs that have been found to influence the development of L2 pronunciation. Those IDs include foreign language learning aptitude (e.g. Saito and Hanzawa, 2016), musical aptitude (e.g. Milovanov et al., 2010), L2 learning motivation (e.g. Moyer, 1999), and anxiety (e.g. Baran-Łucarz, 2016). Based on the discussion in the third section, the last section will offer various applications of IDs research findings to L2 pronunciation instruction (e.g. instructional approaches, feedback, and pronunciation syllabi) for successful L2 pronunciation teaching.
Reinsurance and Financial Performance of Non-life Insurance Companies in Ghana
Authors: Andoh Charles , Yamoah Susana Adobea 
Published: February 2021

The study examines how premiums ceded to a reinsurer affect the profitability of non-life insurance companies in Ghana. Secondary data on reinsurance ceded, combined ratio, assets, liabilities and return on assets for 20 non-life insurance companies over the period 2008–2018 were sourced from National Insurance Commission whilst interest and exchange rates variables were obtained from the Bank of Ghana. Panel regression model was employed for the analysis of the data collected. The results show that purchasing high levels of reinsurance alone does not affect the profitability of non-life insurance companies, but the combined effect of reinsurance and solvency ratio significantly impact their profitability. Managers of non-life insurance companies in Ghana should increase their ability to repay all financial obligations in the short, medium and long term in combination with reinsurance. This will enable insurers to stabilize growth, earn profits and meet their obligations to policyholders in a timely fashion. JEL Code: G22