bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Critical Examination of Inter-temporal Spatial Poverty Trends in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Shadlee 
Published: May 2018

This article examines the nature of spatial dimensions of poverty in Bangladesh by undertaking an in-depth investigation of inter-temporal divergence and convergence in poverty levels. Based on the estimations of Alkire–Foster Multidimensional Poverty Index (A–F MPI) for selected years, the article compares trends in broader dimensions of spatial poverty in Bangladesh with income poverty trends available for corresponding periods. The article scrutinizes the validity of the so-called ‘East–West divide’ in view of poverty levels in Bangladesh. The results evince a number of interesting insights. First, trends of income poverty in Bangladesh are not aligned with those of multidimensional poverty. Second, the levels of inter-temporal poverty as per MPI are relatively higher for the rural–urban divide and also at sub-national (division) levels. Third, inter-temporal trends of divergence–convergence in terms of income poverty relating to the East–West divide do not match corresponding movements in MPI. It is argued that while income poverty dimensions remain important, policymakers should pay more attention to broader issues of deprivations to address challenges of poverty in Bangladesh. Therefore, addressing causes of deprivations as captured in MPIs will help achieve balanced spatial development, accelerated poverty reduction and lower income inequality in Bangladesh. JEL: R11, R12, I32, C22
Isolated systolic hypertension of the young and its association with central blood pressure in a large multi-ethnic population. The HELIUS study
Authors: Eeftinck Schattenkerk Daan W , van Gorp Jacqueline , Vogt Liffert , Peters Ron JG , van den Born Bert-Jan H 
Published: May 2018

Background Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) of the young has been associated with both normal and increased cardiovascular risk, which has been attributed to differences in central systolic blood pressure and arterial stiffness. Methods We assessed the prevalence of ISH of the young and compared differences in central systolic blood pressure and arterial stiffness between ISH and other hypertensive phenotypes in a multi-ethnic population of 3744 subjects (44% men), aged <40 years, participating in the HELIUS study. Results The overall prevalence of ISH was 2.7% (5.2% in men and 1.0% in women) with the highest prevalence in individuals of African descent. Subjects with ISH had lower central systolic blood pressure and pulse wave velocity compared with those with isolated diastolic or systolic-diastolic hypertension, resembling central systolic blood pressure and pulse wave velocity values observed in subjects with high-normal blood pressure. In addition, they had a lower augmentation index and larger stroke volume compared with all other hypertensive phenotypes. In subjects with ISH, increased systolic blood pressure amplification was associated with male gender, Dutch origin, lower age, taller stature, lower augmentation index and larger stroke volume. Conclusion ISH of the young is a heterogeneous condition with average central systolic blood pressure values comparable to individuals with high-normal blood pressure. On an individual level ISH was associated with both normal and raised central systolic blood pressure. In subjects with ISH of the young, measurement of central systolic blood pressure may aid in discriminating high from low cardiovascular risk.
Efficacy of renin–angiotensin system inhibitors for patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and mild to moderate chronic kidney disease
Authors: Tsujimoto Tetsuro , Kajio Hiroshi 
Published: May 2018

Background Renin–angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors are first-line treatments for chronic kidney disease, but it is not known if these agents can improve outcome in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and chronic kidney disease. Design This was a post-hoc analysis of the Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure with an Aldosterone Antagonist trial. Methods The primary outcome was a composite endpoint of all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke or hospitalization for heart failure. We analyzed hazard ratios in patients taking RAS inhibitors compared with those not taking RAS inhibitors using Cox proportional hazard models. Results A total of 1465 HFpEF patients with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease was included. The mean follow-up period was 2.8 years; 502 patients experienced at least one confirmed primary outcome event. The primary outcome event rates in patients not taking and taking RAS inhibitors were 175.4 and 112.8 per 1000 person-years, respectively. The risks of primary outcome events and all-cause death were significantly lower in patients taking RAS inhibitors than in those not taking RAS inhibitors (adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) for primary outcome events: 0.75 (0.60–0.95), p = 0.01; adjusted hazard ratio for all-cause death: 0.69 (0.52–0.93), p = 0.01). Among propensity score-matched patients, these risks were also significantly lower in those taking RAS inhibitors than in those not taking RAS inhibitors (hazard ratio: 0.67 (0.50–0.90), p = 0.008; hazard ratio: 0.60 (0.41–0.88), p = 0.01). Conclusion Use of RAS inhibitors was associated with reduced risks of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in HFpEF patients with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease.
The Vampire Study: Significant elevation of faecal calprotectin in healthy volunteers after 300 ml blood ingestion mimicking upper gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Vavricka Stephan R , Heinrich Henriette , Buetikofer Simon , Breitenmoser Flavia , Burri Emanuel , Schneider-Yin Xiaoye , Barman-Aksoezen Jasmin , Biedermann Luc , Scharl Michael , Zeitz Jonas , Rogler Gerhard , Misselwitz Benjamin , Sauter Matthias 
Published: May 2018

BackgroundFaecal calprotectin correlates with histological and clinical activity in inflammatory bowel disease. Gastrointestinal bleeding might also increase faecal calprotectin levels, erroneously implying intestinal inflammation; however, this possibility has not been systematically assessed.MethodsSixteen healthy volunteers without gastrointestinal disease and normal faecal calprotectin baseline values ingested their own blood twice, either by drinking or via nasogastric tube. Quantities of 100 ml and 300 ml blood were ingested in a randomised order, with a 28‐day wash‐out period. Faecal calprotectin, faecal occult blood test, and the occurrence of melaena were assessed. Faecal calprotectin ≥ 50 µg/g was considered elevated.ResultsMelaena was reported by all healthy volunteers after 300 ml and by 11/15 healthy volunteers (71%) after 100 ml blood ingestion. One day after ingestion of 300 ml blood, 8/16 faecal calprotectin tests were positive compared to 1/16 at baseline (p = 0.016). Faecal calprotectin levels above > 200 µg/g were rarely observed. There was a trend for faecal calprotectin test positivity also after ingestion of 100 ml.ConclusionIngestion of blood resulted in an increase in faecal calprotectin‐positive tests. Gastrointestinal bleeding should be considered as a potential cause of mild faecal calprotectin elevation > 50 µg/g; however, increased faecal calprotectin above > 250–300 µg/g, the established cut‐off for relevant intestinal inflammation in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, is rare.
Histopathology findings of non-mass cancers on breast ultrasound
Authors: Kim Hye Rin , Jung Hae Kyoung 
Published: May 2018

Background There is little research done on non-mass cancers (NMCs) on breast ultrasound (US). Purpose To evaluate large-sectional histopathology findings of NMCs on breast US. Material and Methods The mammographic and histopathology features of biopsy proven 36 breast cancers which showed pure non-mass lesions on US were retrospectively reviewed. Results The most common mammographic finding was microcalcification (23/35, 65.7%); fine pleomorphic microcalcification was predominant (18/23, 78.3%). The main tumor type was pure ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) (14/36, 38.9%) and DCIS with micro- or minimal invasion (11/36, 30.6%). Among the 25 DCIS, histologic grade was high in 15 (60.0%) and intermediate in nine (36%); comedo necrosis was seen in 17 (68%). Immunohistochemical analysis was available in 27 lesions and showed HER2-overexpression in 12 (44.4%) and triple-negative in two (7.4%). Conclusion According to our limited patient sample, NMCs on breast US were mainly associated with high-grade DCIS.
USP22 deficiency leads to myeloid leukemia upon oncogenic Kras activation through a PU.1-dependent mechanism
Authors: Melo-Cardenas Johanna , Xu Yuanming , Wei Juncheng , Tan Can , Kong Sinyi , Gao Beixue , Montauti Elena , Kirsammer Gina , Licht Jonathan D. , Yu Jindan , Ji Peng , Crispino John D. , Fang Deyu 
Published: May 2018

Key Points
USP22 deficiency in Ras-driven myeloproliferative neoplasm blocks myeloid differentiation promoting acute myeloid leukemia. USP22 is a PU.1 deubiquitylase that positively regulates PU.1 stability and the expression of myeloid-differentiation genes.
Metatarsophalangeal joint extension changes ultrasound measurements for plantar fascia thickness
Authors: Granado Michael J. , Lohman Everett B. , Gordon Keith E. , Daher Noha S. 
Published: May 2018

AbstractBackgroundUltrasound is an inexpensive method for quantifying plantar fascia thickness, especially in those with plantar fasciitis. Ultrasound has also been used to assess the effectiveness of various treatments for plantar fasciitis by comparing plantar fascia thickness before and after an intervention period. While a plantar fascia thickness over 4 mm via ultrasound has been proposed to be consistent with plantar fasciitis, some researchers believe the 4 mm plantar fascia thickness level to be a dubious guideline for diagnosing plantar fasciitis due to the lack of standardization of the measurement process for plantar fascia thickness. In particular, no universal guidelines exist on the positioning of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints during the procedure and the literature also has inconsistent protocols. The purpose of this study is to investigate and compare the influence of MTP joint extension on plantar fascia thickness in healthy participants and those with unilateral plantar fasciitis.MethodsThe plantar fascia thickness of forty participants (20 with unilateral plantar fasciitis and 20 control) was measured via ultrasound three times at three different MTP joint positions: 1) at rest, 2) 30° of extension from the plantar surface, and 3) maximal extension possible.ResultsThe plantar fascia became significantly thinner as MTP joint extension increased in both the plantar fasciitis group (p < 0.001) and the control group (p < 0.001). In the plantar fasciitis group, the involved plantar fascia was 1.2 to 1.3 mm thicker (p < 0.001) than the uninvolved side depending on the MTP joint position. In the control group, the difference in plantar fascia thickness between the two sides was less than 0.1 mm (p < 0.92) at any MTP joint position.ConclusionsMTP joint position can influence the ultrasound measurement of plantar fascia thickness. It is recommended that plantar fascia thickness measurements be performed with the toes at rest. If MTP joints must be extended, then the toes should be extended maximally and then noted to ensure subsequent ultrasound procedures are repeated. Standardizing the position of the MTP joints is not only important for attaining the most accurate thickness measurement of the plantar fascia, but is also important to researchers who use plantar fascia thickness to determine the effectiveness of various plantar fasciitis interventions.
Is there a survival benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with liver oligometastases from colorectal cancer after curative resection?
Authors: Pan Zhizhong , Peng Jianhong , Lin Junzhong , Chen Gong , Wu Xiaojun , Lu Zhenhai , Deng Yuxiang , Zhao Yujie , Sui Qiaoqi , Wan Desen 
Published: May 2018

AbstractBackgroundAlthough colorectal oligometastases to the liver can potentially be cured with aggressive local ablation, the efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) for such metastasis remains unclear. The present study explored the effects of ACT on patients with colorectal liver oligometastases (CLO) after curative resections and aimed to identify patients who could benefit from ACT.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed 264 eligible patients with CLO who underwent curative resection between September 1999 and June 2015. Recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier method and log‐rank test; prognostic factors were a by Cox regression modeling.ResultsAmong 264 patients, 200 (75.8%) patients received ACT and 64 (24.2%) did not receive ACT. These two groups did not significantly differ in clinicopathologic characteristics, and had comparable 3‐year OS and RFS rates (RFS: 42.1% vs. 45.7%, P = 0.588; OS: 69.7% vs. 62.7%, P = 0.446) over a median follow‐up duration of 35.5 months, irrespective of preoperative chemotherapy. ACT markedly improved 3‐year OS in high‐risk patients with Memorial Sloan‐Kettering Cancer Center clinical risk scores (MSKCC‐CRS) of 3–5 (68.2% vs. 33.8%, P = 0.015), but presented no additional benefit in patients with MSKCC‐CRS of 0–2 (72.2% vs. 78.6%, P = 0.834). In multivariate analysis, ACT was independently associated with improved OS in patients with MSKCC‐CRS of 3–5.ConclusionsACT might offer a prognostic benefit in high‐risk patients with CLOs after curative liver resection, but not in low‐risk patients. Therefore, patients’ risk status should be determined before ACT administration to optimize postoperative therapeutic strategies.
Peripheral Neuropathy, Sensory Processing, and Balance in Survivors of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Varedi Mitra , Lu Lu , Howell Carrie R. , Partin Robyn E. , Hudson Melissa M. , Pui Ching-Hon , Krull Kevin R. , Robison Leslie L. , Ness Kirsten K. , McKenna Raymond F. 
Published: May 2018

Purpose To compare peripheral nervous system function and balance between adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and matched controls and to determine associations between peripheral neuropathy (PN) and limitations in static balance, mobility, walking endurance, and quality of life (QoL) among survivors. Patients and Methods Three hundred sixty-five adult survivors of childhood ALL and 365 controls with no cancer history completed assessments of PN (modified Total Neuropathy Score [mTNS]), static balance (Sensory Organization Test [SOT]), mobility (Timed Up and Go), walking endurance (6-minute walk test), QoL (Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Survey), and visual-motor processing speed (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale). Results PN, but not impairments, in performance on SOT was more common in survivors than controls (41.4% v 9.5%, respectively; P < .001). In multivariable models, higher mTNS scores were associated with longer time to complete the Timed Up and Go (β = 0.15; 95% CI, 0.06 to 0.23; P < .001), shorter distance walked in 6 minutes (β = −4.39; 95% CI, −8.63 to −0.14; P = .04), and reduced QoL (β = −1.33; 95% CI, −1.79 to −0.87; P < .001 for physical functioning; β = −1.16; 95% CI, −1.64 to −0.67; P < .001 for role physical; and β = −0.88; 95% CI, −1.34 to −0.42; P < .001 for general health). Processing speed (β = 1.69; 95% CI, 0.98 to 2.40; P < .001), but not mTNS score, was associated with anterior-posterior sway on the SOT. Conclusion PN in long-term ALL survivors is associated with movement, including mobility and walking endurance, but not with static standing balance. The association between processing speed and sway suggests that static balance impairment in ALL survivors may be influenced by problems with CNS function, including the processing of sensory information.
Assessing the feasibility of developing and implementing a web-based patient education application.
Authors: Mosesso Kara , Walters Chasity , Supan Christianne , Jakubowski Ann Alice 
Published: May 2018

101 Background: Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is common following allogeneic stem cell transplant (allo-SCT). Lifestyle counseling in the early post-transplant period is crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality related to MetS. The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility of developing and implementing a video web-based patient education application that educates patients about Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and provides preventative lifestyle recommendations following allo-SCT. Methods: We created and animated four video storyboards using evidence based research and recommended guidelines (from nationally recognized organizations). There is one video for each component of MetS including abdominal obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia. The videos and a printable PDF overview of MetS were launched on a landing page on our patient education website (available to MSKCC and non-MSKCC patients) in August 2017. MSKCC patients are introduced to the website ( https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/managing-metabolic-syndrome-after-allogeneic-stem-cell-transplant ) by the nurse practitioner at their Survivorship Visit. After approximately 10 weeks live, feasibility was assessed according to measured MSKCC and non-MSKCC patient use of the education application. Results: To date there have been 121 pageviews on the landing page, 89 of which are unique IP addresses. Video use statistics are noted in the table below. Conclusions: Developing a video web-based patient application is a feasible adjunct to support and expand upon face-to-face education. Future directions include determining patient satisfaction, change in knowledge and behavior as a result of the videos and perceived usability of the web-based program by integrating a Likert-type patient self-report questionnaire into a module on the landing page. [Table: see text]
Randomized web-based physical activity intervention in adolescent survivors of childhood cancer.
Authors: Howell Carrie R , Krull Kevin R. , Partin, MS Robyn , Kadan-Lottick Nina S. , Robison Leslie L. , Hudson Melissa M. , Ness Kirsten K. 
Published: May 2018

102 Background: This study of adolescent survivors of childhood cancer evaluated the initial efficacy of a web-delivered, interactive, rewards-based physical activity intervention that aimed to increase moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and improve fitness, neurocognitive and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes over 24 weeks. Methods: Survivors (aged ≥ 11 to < 15 years) who were not undergoing active cancer treatment, were physically active < 60 minutes/day and were treated at a single institution were randomized (2:1) to a rewards-based physical activity intervention delivered via the internet or a control group. The intervention group received educational materials, an activity monitor, and access to an interactive website designed to motivate increased physical activity via rewards (e.g. t-shirts, stickers, gift cards) and the control group received only the activity monitor and educational materials. Physical activity, fitness, neurocognitive and HRQoL outcomes were assessed at baseline and 24-weeks. Mean changes in outcomes were compared between groups using paired t-tests. Results: Of 97 survivors enrolled, 78 completed the study (53 in the intervention group, 25 in the control group), the mean age was 12.7 (SD 1.1), 80% were white, and 55.1% were female. The intervention group increased their MVPA over time (mean change in weekly MVPA: 4.7 minutes [SD 119.9]), while the control group steadily decreased their weekly MVPA (-24.3 minutes [SD 89.7]) (p = 0.30). In the intervention group, mean change in hand grip strength (p = 0.01), number of sit-ups (p < 0.01) and push-ups (p < 0.01), neurocognitive measures (e.g. verbal executive function, p < 0.01), and HRQoL outcomes (e.g. overall HRQoL, p = 0.01; physical function, p = 0.01) improved over time; no change was observed in the control group. Conclusions: These preliminary findings indicate that increasing MVPA via an intervention designed to increase motivation to exercise may have positive effects on fitness, neurocognitive and HRQoL outcomes in adolescent survivors of childhood cancer. Clinical trial information: NCT01778127.
Increasing physical activity in cancer survivors using eHealth: A focus group study.
Authors: Haberlin Ciaran , Moran Jonathan , Broderick Julie M , O'Donnell Dearbhaile M. 
Published: May 2018

107 Background: Physical activity (PA) is beneficial in reducing disease and treatment related side‐effects of cancer. However, insufficient PA levels are common among cancer survivors. eHealth may offer an innovative delivery platform to support cancer survivors to increase PA. Few qualitative studies have explored the views of cancer survivors towards eHealth based PA interventions. Our aim was to use cancer survivors’ input to inform the design of a feasibility study of eHealth for PA promotion. Methods: A ten-item scoping questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was administered to 102 cancer survivors. It evaluated their knowledge of PA guidelines, their access to smartphones and interest in eHealth interventions designed to increase PA levels. Questions were refined and evaluated in a follow-up focus group study (7 groups, n=23). Focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed. Transcripts were coded using NVivo software and themes identified by thematic content analysis. Results: In the questionnaire study, only 17.6% (n=18) of participants correctly identified PA guidelines. Sixty-two (60.8%) participants reported having access to a smartphone. Interest in participating in an eHealth intervention was expressed by 56.9% of all participants (n=58) and by 75.8% (n=47) of those with access to a smartphone. Emergent themes from the focus groups included: the physical barriers to PA, the need for PA goals, the importance of both information from healthcare professionals about PA and of a support network (e.g. peer support), the need for technological support and a motivation to improve general health. Conclusions: Very few cancer survivors were aware of the correct PA guidelines. However, over half of our sample was interested in participating in an eHealth intervention for PA, demonstrating that the cancer survivor population is responsive to a PA program delivered using technology. The focus groups have given us insights about the key elements of an effective PA intervention for cancer survivors using eHealth. We are conducting a feasibility study (The IMPETUS study; NCT03036436) of an eHealth intervention targeting PA in cancer survivors; its design was informed by those insights.