bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Shear wave elastography evaluation of brachial plexus in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gürün Enes , Akdulum İsmail , Akyüz Melih , Oktar Suna Özhan 
Published: March 2021

Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neuroinflammatory disease characterized by inflammation involving the peripheral nerves. Shear wave elastography (SWE) is potentially a method of choice for detecting peripheral nerve involvement. Purpose To compare the degree of thickening and nerve elasticity of brachial plexus (BP) nerve roots and evaluate the usefulness of sonoelastography in patients with clinically diagnosed MS without brachial plexopathy. Material and Methods Thirty-two patients with MS and 32 controls were included in the study. Bilateral C5, C6, and C7 mean nerve root diameters, and mean elasticity values in kiloPascal (kPa) were measured in the patient and control groups. The relationship between the age, height, and weight values and nerve diameter-elasticity values of the patient and control groups was compared. Results The elasticity values of the C5 and C6 nerve roots were increased, and the nerve root thickness was decreased in the MS group compared to that in the control ( P < 0.05). There was no difference between the C7 mean nerve root elasticity (kPa) and diameter measurements in the patient and control groups ( P > 0.05). Conclusion Our study showed an increase in the BP nerve root elasticity values (kPa) in patients with MS compared to that of the control group and a decrease in diameter values thought to be related to the possible chronic atrophic process. The results are consistent with the demyelinating process of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) due to MS.
Sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances in intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired delirium: a case–control study
Authors: Sun Ting , Sun Yunliang , Huang Xiao , Liu Jianghua , Yang Jiabin , Zhang Kai , Kong Guiqing , Han Fang , Hao Dong , Wang Xiaozhi 
Published: March 2021

Objective The relationships among sleep, circadian rhythm, and intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired delirium are complex and remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the pathophysiological mechanisms of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances in patients with ICU-acquired delirium. Methods This study included critical adult patients aged 18 to 75 years who were treated in the ICU. Twenty-four-hour polysomnography was performed and serum melatonin and cortisol levels were measured six times during polysomnography. Receiver operating characteristic curves and binomial logistic regression were used to evaluate the potential of sleep, melatonin, and cortisol as indicators of delirium in the ICU. Results Patients with delirium (n = 24) showed less rapid eye movement (REM) sleep compared with patients without delirium (n = 24, controls). Melatonin levels were lower and cortisol levels were higher in the delirium group than in the control group. REM sleep, melatonin, and cortisol were significantly associated with delirium. The optimal cutoff values of REM sleep and mean melatonin and cortisol levels that predicted delirium were ≤1.05%, ≤422.09 pg/mL, and ≥212.14 ng/mL, respectively. Conclusions REM sleep, and melatonin and cortisol levels are significantly associated with the risk of ICU-acquired delirium. Improved sleep and readjustment of circadian rhythmicity may be therapeutic targets of ICU-acquired delirium.
Diallyl trisulfide inhibited tobacco smoke-mediated bladder EMT and cancer stem cell marker expression via the NF-κB pathway in vivo
Authors: Geng Hao , Guo Wenhao , Feng Lei , Xie Dongdong , Bi Liangkuan , Wang Yi , Zhang Tao , Liang Zhaofeng , Yu Dexin 
Published: March 2021

Objective This study examined the effect of the NF-κB pathway on tobacco smoke-elicited bladder epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cell (CSC) marker expression in vivo. The effect of diallyl trisulfide (DATS) treatment was also examined. Methods BALB/c mice were exposed to tobacco smoke and treated with an NF-κB inhibitor and DATS. Western blotting, quantitative real-time PCR, and immunohistochemical staining were used to detect the changes of relevant indices. Results Phosphorylated inhibitor of kappa-B kinase alpha/beta expression and p65 and p50 nuclear transcription were increased by tobacco smoke exposure, whereas inhibitor of kappa-B expression was decreased. In addition, tobacco smoke reduced the expression of epithelial markers but increased that of mesenchymal and CSC markers. Our study further demonstrated that tobacco smoke-mediated EMT and CSC marker expression were attenuated by inhibition of the NF-κB pathway. Moreover, DATS reversed tobacco smoke-induced NF-κB pathway activation, EMT, and the acquisition of CSC properties in bladder tissues. Conclusions These data suggested that the NF-κB pathway regulated tobacco smoke-induced bladder EMT, CSC marker expression, and the protective effects of DATS.
Long non-coding RNA NEAT1 regulates ferroptosis sensitivity in non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Wu Hongxia , Liu Aiwen 
Published: March 2021

Objectives Ferroptosis is caused by iron-dependent lipid peroxide accumulation, the sensitivity of which might be regulated by acyl-CoA synthetase long chain family member 4 (ACSL4). Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) can resist oxidative stress and reduce the sensitivity of tumor cells to ferroptosis by changing the expression of some proteins. Mechanisms involving ferroptosis sensitivity in NSCLC are not fully understood. Methods A dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm a targeting relationship between long non-coding (lnc)RNA NEAT1 and ACSL4. Overexpression and silencing assays of NEAT1 function were used to determine its roles in cell death (by TUNEL staining) and lipid peroxidation (by malondialdehyde levels). Expression of ferroptosis-related proteins (SLCA11, GPX4, and TFR4) was evaluated by western blot in NSCLC cells treated or not with the ferroptosis inducer erastin. Results Erastin-induced cell death was positively correlated with ACSL4 level. NEAT1 regulated levels of ACSL4 and proteins related to the ferroptosis and classical apoptosis pathways. Levels of ACSL4, SLC7A11, and GPX4 were decreased more by NEAT1 silencing plus erastin than by erastin alone. Conclusion NEAT1 regulates ferroptosis and ferroptosis sensitivity, with the latter depending on ACSL4, suggesting that targeting NEAT1 or ACSL4 may be a viable therapeutic approach to the treatment of NSCLC.
Idiopathic bilateral massive perirenal subcapsular effusion: The first case in the literature
Authors: Hacibey Ibrahim , Sahin Yusuf , Serifoglu Ismail , Muslumanoglu Ahmet Yaser 
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Bilateral perirenal subcapsular effusion is a rare clinical condition and is associated with several underlying etiologies. We present a 33 years old male patient with idiopathic bilateral massive subcapsular effusion. Case presentation: A 33-year-old male patient presented to our outpatient clinic with bilateral flank pain and fever for 2 weeks. Bilateral perirenal subcapsular effusion was detected in intravenous contrast-enhanced CT and dynamic MRI. Treatment: Bilateral ultrasound-guided percutaneous drainage was performed by an expert uroradiologist to reduce the parenchymal pressure, Control CT imaging after 6 weeks demonstrate that bilateral normal kidneys. Discussion: It has been reported that subcapsular and perirenal effusion is a rare clinical condition that may develop secondary to causes such as Nephrotic syndrome, Eisenmenger Syndrome, Lymphangiomatosis, and Page Kidney Disease. In our case, the clinical symptoms of the patient regressed after the whole effusion fluid was drained. No underlying pathology was found in further examinations. Therefore, we present the first case of Idiopathic Bilateral Massive Perirenal Subcapsular Effusion in the literature.
Comrades Do Not Always Agree: How to Promote Cooperation between the Followers of Marx and Sraffa?
Authors: Camarinha Lopes Tiago 
Published: March 2021

In this note I propose two different levels of analysis for organizing the conversation around the Sraffa/Marx polemic. First, the “pragmatic approach” takes into account the immediate circumstances prevailing in the teaching of economics. In particular, we must understand that there is a systematic denial of Marxism in most economic departments, which are dominated by the mainstream neoclassical school, Keynesian thought, and various minor heterodox currents. Second, the “in-depth approach” leaves aside these circumstances and investigates the frontiers of socialist and radical political economics regardless of how well versed in Marxist theory a typical economist may be. Both levels are necessary, but we need to distinguish clearly so that we know when it is most useful to focus on one or the other. JEL Classification: B24, B51
Breastfeeding During a Pandemic: The Influence of COVID-19 on Lactation Services in the Northeastern United States
Authors: Schindler-Ruwisch Jennifer , Phillips Kathryn E. 
Published: March 2021

Background Pandemic-related restrictions have limited traditional models of lactation support. Research Aims The primary aim of this study was to determine changes to breastfeeding support services during the coronavirus-2019 pandemic according to trained lactation providers. The secondary aim was to assess strengths and limitations of telehealth services. Methods A prospective survey was conducted entirely online using the Qualtrics platform during June 2020. Gatekeepers at Connecticut agencies and breastfeeding networks were forwarded an anonymous survey link to distribute to eligible lactation staff. Results A variety of participants ( N = 39) completed the survey and the majority (69.2%; n = 27) were providing only telehealth services. More than half (58.1%; n = 18) of the participants who conducting telehealth in any form, found that virtual lactation support was moderately effective compared to in-person support. Weakness of virtual support included technical and logistical difficulties, challenges assisting with latching or reading body language over the phone or online, and accurately assessing infant growth. Strengths related to virtual support included the flexibility and convenience of home-based support, expanded communication strategies, and safety from virus exposure. Further, visits with a lactation professional decreased significantly during the pandemic. Limited in-hospital and pediatrician support were also noted, particularly among groups without access to telehealth resources. Conclusions As a result of the pandemic and associated shifts in lactation services, breastfeeding disparities may be further exacerbated among those without equitable access to lactation support. Challenges and innovations in virtual support may influence adaptive options in the field moving forward.
Impact of COVID-19-related care disruptions on cervical cancer screening in the United States
Authors: Burger Emily A , Jansen Erik EL , Killen James , Kok Inge MCM de , Smith Megan A , Sy Stephen , Dunnewind Niels , G Campos Nicole , Haas Jennifer S , Kobrin Sarah , Kamineni Aruna , Canfell Karen , Kim Jane J 
Published: March 2021

Objectives To quantify the secondary impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic disruptions to cervical cancer screening in the United States, stratified by step in the screening process and primary test modality, on cervical cancer burden. Methods We conducted a comparative model-based analysis using three independent NCI Cancer Intervention and Surveillance Modeling Network cervical models to quantify the impact of eight alternative COVID-19-related screening disruption scenarios compared to a scenario of no disruptions. Scenarios varied by the duration of the disruption (6 or 24 months), steps in the screening process being disrupted (primary screening, surveillance, colposcopy, excisional treatment), and primary screening modality (cytology alone or cytology plus human papillomavirus “cotesting”). Results The models consistently showed that COVID-19-related disruptions yield small net increases in cervical cancer cases by 2027, which are greater for women previously screened with cytology compared with cotesting. When disruptions affected all four steps in the screening process under cytology-based screening, there were an additional 5–7 and 38–45 cases per one million screened for 6- and 24-month disruptions, respectively. In contrast, under cotesting, there were additional 4–5 and 35–45 cases per one million screened for 6- and 24-month disruptions, respectively. The majority (58–79%) of the projected increases in cases under cotesting were due to disruptions to surveillance, colposcopies, or excisional treatment, rather than to primary screening. Conclusions Women in need of surveillance, colposcopies, or excisional treatment, or whose last primary screen did not involve human papillomavirus testing, may comprise priority groups for reintroductions.
Age of hypertension onset in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Briggs Farren BS , Krill Diane , Hill Eddie , Conway Devon S 
Published: March 2021

Background/Objective: Hypertension (HTN) is common in multiple sclerosis (MS), and it is associated with poorer outcomes. We sought to characterize HTN age at onset (AAO) by MS status. Methods/Results: There were 130,050 incident HTN patients, among whom there were 892 MS patients. We conducted multivariable linear regression adjusting for patient attributes. Sex- and race-stratified models were conducted. HTN AAO did not differ in patients with and without MS ( p = 0.17). Similar null associations were observed in the sex- and race-specific analyses. Conclusion: While there are complex relationships between HTN and MS, there are no differences in HTN AAO by MS status.
What do children think of their own bilingualism? Exploring bilingual children’s attitudes and perceptions
Authors: Peace-Hughes Tracey , de Lima Philomena , Cohen Bronwen , Jamieson Lynn , Tisdall E Kay M , Sorace Antonella 
Published: March 2021

Aims and objectives: This paper explores children’s experiences and perceptions of their own bilingualism in two contexts in Scotland, UK: a primary school with a high proportion of children using a language other than English at home; and a primary school where the language of instruction is an indigenous, minority language, Gaelic. Methodology: The paper draws upon data gathered from multiple qualitative methods, including interviews, group activities and discussion, with both children and their parents. The data in this paper draw upon a broader interdisciplinary project exploring children’s experiences of bilingualism. Ethics were duly considered. Data and analysis: Data were gathered from 27 children and 11 parents. Data were coded and analysed using thematic analysis. Comparison between contexts was of particular interest for this article. Findings: This paper highlights the importance of research with children in order to gain an insight into their experiences and perceptions of their own bilingualism. In particular, our findings illustrate how children’s language learning is encouraged and supported by children’s connections with others and the fundamental role of family (particularly parents/carers) and diverse community-based support systems (which encompass a wide range of individuals and community groups) in order to develop active bilingualism. Originality: This paper addresses a research gap in a largely quantitative field, by adopting a qualitative approach to explore children’s experiences and perceptions of their own bilingualism. A qualitative approach facilitates attention to complexity and the participants’ own meanings and understandings. Significance: The paper highlights the value of research with children in order to explore their views and perspectives. In particular, qualitative research methodologies, where children’s experiences are central to understanding the research phenomenon, and to facilitating the exploration of the range of complex issues that interact with a child’s bilingualism.
Evaluation of the diagnostic value of the renal resistive index as a marker of the subclinical development of cardiorenal syndrome in MMVD dogs
Authors: Szczepankiewicz Barbara , Pasławska Urszula , Siwińska Natalia , Plens Krzysztof , Pasławski Robert 
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) in dogs inevitably causes renal dysfunction. These interactions are known as the cardiorenal syndrome (CRS). The main aims of the study were to evaluate whether renal resistive index (RRI) may be useful as a non-invasive marker in subclinical stage of kidney injury in dogs with MMVD and to compare RRI with SDMA and Cyst C. Methods: Forty-four dogs were divided into two groups: control—15 healthy dogs and the heart group—29 dogs with MMVD (ACVIM class Cc). Study protocol included: anamnesis, clinical examination, electrocardiography, echocardiography, chest radiography, abdominal ultrasonography with measurements of the renal resistive index (RRI), urine, and blood analysis. Results: The RRI in the heart group was significantly higher 0.725 ± 0.035 versus control group 0.665 ± 0.028 ( p < 0.00085). The RRI cut-off point in dogs with stable chronic heart failure (CHF) under 8 years is 0.775, in older 0.64. RRI was similar in MMVD dogs treated with ACE-I + furosemide and dogs treated ACE-I + torasemide + pimobendan + spironolactone. There was no correlation between RRI and SDMA or Cyst C. Conclusion: RRI is more sensitive than creatinine, SDMA and Cyst C to reveal kidney injury in MMVD dogs class Cc younger than 8 years.
Intravascular Ultrasound-Guided Contrast-Free Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Porcine Feasibility Study
Authors: Krapf Christoph , Altaner Niklas , Martini Judith , Putzer Gabriel , Rudolf Benjamin , Grimm Michael , Friedrich Guy , Bonaros Nikolaos 
Published: March 2021

Objective Patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) frequently present with chronic kidney disease and are therefore particularly susceptible to nephrotoxic influences like iodinated contrast media. Acute kidney injury after TAVI is a severe complication that independently predicts short- and long-term mortality. The present study investigates the feasibility of a contrast-free approach by using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in conjunction with fluoroscopy. Methods Six domestic pigs (60 ± 5 kg) were anesthetized and underwent transapical implantation of a balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valve. In the control group ( n = 3), the procedures were guided by fluoroscopy/angiography. In the study group ( n = 3), the procedures were guided by IVUS for preimplantation evaluation, intra-procedural guidance, and post-implantation evaluation, in conjunction with fluoroscopy without contrast. The procedures were evaluated by IVUS, fluoroscopy, aortic root angiography, and explantation and dissection of the hearts. Results Relevant anatomical landmarks for correct implantation were assessed by IVUS. The following annulus measurements were obtained: area (359.67 ± 29.58 mm2), perimeter (68.28 ± 2.63 mm), maximum diameter (22.20 ± 1.22 mm), minimum diameter (20.43 ± 1.12 mm), mean diameter (21.32 ± 0.70 mm), ellipticity index (1.09 ± 0.10), and area-derived diameter (21.39 ± 0.87 mm). IVUS-guided valve deployment resulted in correct expansion within the aortic annulus without signs of paravalvular leak, compromised mitral valve, or coronary obstruction. IVUS-guided post-implantation assessment confirmed circular expansion (25.88 ± 0.30 mm) of the valves. Conclusions IVUS-guided, contrast-free transapical TAVI is feasible in a porcine model.
Reasons for the utilization of the services of traditional birth attendants during childbirth: A qualitative study in Northern Ghana
Authors: Tabong Philip Teg-Nefaah , Kyilleh Joseph Maaminu , Amoah William Wilberforce 
Published: March 2021

Background: Skilled delivery reduces maternal and neonatal mortality. Ghana has put in place measures to reduce geographical and financial access to skilled delivery. Despite this, about 30% of deliveries still occur either at home or are conducted by traditional birth attendants. We, therefore, conducted this study to explore the reasons for the utilization of the services of traditional birth attendants despite the availability of health facilities. Method: Using a phenomenology study design, we selected 31 women who delivered at facilities of four traditional birth attendants in the Northern region of Ghana. Purposive sampling was used to recruit only women who were resident at a place with a health facility for an in-depth interview. The interviews were recorded and transcribed into Microsoft word document. The transcripts were imported into NVivo 12 for thematic analyses. Results: The study found that quality of care was the main driver for traditional birth attendant delivery services. Poor attitude of midwives, maltreatment, and fear of caesarean section were barriers to skilled delivery. Community norms dictate that womanhood is linked to vaginal delivery and women who deliver through caesarean section do not receive the same level of respect. Traditional birth attendants were believed to be more experienced and understand the psychosocial needs of women during childbirth, unlike younger midwives. Furthermore, the inability of women to procure all items required for delivery at biomedical facilities emerged as push factors for traditional birth attendant delivery services. Preference for squatting position during childbirth and social support provided to mothers by traditional birth attendants are also an essential consideration for the use of their services. Conclusion: The study concludes that health managers should go beyond reducing financial and geographical access to improving quality of care and the birth experience of women. These are necessary to complement the efforts at increasing the availability of health facilities and free delivery services.
Is children’s health-related quality of life associated with physical fitness and mode of commuting? PREVIENE Project
Authors: Saucedo-Araujo RG , Huertas-Delgado FJ , Villa-González E , Ávila-García M , Gálvez-Fernández P , Tercedor P 
Published: March 2021

Aim: The aims of this study were (1) to examine the associations between self-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL), health-related physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, and speed-agility), and mode of commuting to and from school in Spanish children, and separately by gender and (2) to analyse the difference in cardiorespiratory fitness by mode of commuting to and from school by gender. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis that included 415 children aged 8.47 ± 0.36 years from 14 schools in Granada, Spain. The HRQoL outcome was assessed using the valid and reliable KINDL-R questionnaire, which covers six life dimensions, children’s physical fitness was assessed using the ALPHA fitness test battery, and while commuting to and from school was assessed using the valid, reliable, and feasible ‘Mode and Frequency of Commuting To and From School Questionnaire’. Results: Cardiorespiratory fitness was positively correlated with all dimensions of HRQoL in boys, whereas higher muscular strength (standing long jump) was positively correlated with the emotional wellbeing dimension in girls. In addition, boys who actively commute to school (walking) presented better cardiorespiratory fitness. Moreover, children who actively commuted to school (walking) presented better scores for the emotional wellbeing, family, and school dimensions, as well as total scores (both, p < .05) of HRQoL. Conclusion: In our study, HRQoL was positively correlated with cardiorespiratory fitness in boys (all dimensions), whereas muscular strength (standing long jump) was positively correlated with the emotional wellbeing dimension only in girls. Active commuting to and from school was associated with higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness, school dimension, and KINDL-R total score. Improving cardiorespiratory fitness might be especially useful to improve HRQoL in children, and vice versa.