bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A systematic review and meta-analysis of treatment modalities for anterior accessory saphenous vein insufficiency
Authors: Alozai Tamana , Huizing Eline , Schreve Michiel A. , Mooij Michael C. , van Vlijmen Clarissa J. , Wisselink Willem , Ünlü Çağdaş 
Published: December 2021

Objective To investigate and compare the outcomes of the available treatment modalities for anterior accessory saphenous vein (AASV) incompetence. Methods A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Studies reporting the outcomes of patients who were treated for primary AASV incompetence were included. The methodologic quality of the articles was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS). A random-effects model was used to estimate anatomic success, defined as AASV occlusion. The secondary outcomes were pain during and after treatment, venous clinical severity score, quality of life, esthetic result, time to return to daily activities, and complications. Results The search identified 860 articles, of which 16 met the inclusion criteria. A total of 609 AASVs were reported. The included studies were of poor or moderate quality according to MINORS score. The pooled anatomic success rates were 91.8% after endovenous laser ablation and radiofrequency ablation (EVLA, RFA, 11 studies), 93.6% after cyanoacrylate closure (3 studies), and 79.8% after sclerotherapy (2 studies). The non-pooled anatomic success rate was 97.9% after phlebectomy and 82% after CHIVA. Paresthesia was seen after EVLA in 0.7% of patients (6 studies). Phlebitis was seen in 2.6% of patients after RFA (2 studies), 27% after sclerotherapy (1 study), and 12% after the phlebectomy (1 study). Deep venous thrombosis and skin burn did not occur. Conclusion Treatment of AASV incompetence is safe and effective. Despite limited evidence, occlusion of the AASV can be achieved with endovenous thermal ablation and cyanoacrylate. There does not appear to be a benefit of EVLA compared to RFA regarding treatment efficacy. Phlebectomy shows promising results if the saphenofemoral junction is competent. Lower results are seen after sclerotherapy and CHIVA. However, studies with sufficient sample sizes of solely treatment of AASV incompetence are needed to draw firm conclusions.
Managing gender diversity and board dynamics: The role of male chairpersons of large listed firms
Authors: Fitzsimmons Terrence W , Callan Victor J 
Published: December 2021

To better understand the links between gender diversity and board dynamics, 45 male chairs of large Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) firms were interviewed to identify the impacts of the appointment of women on board functioning. Chairs held very positive perceptions about the influence of women board members, including improved dynamics around reflexivity, communication and debate which assisted chairs to promote a sense of shared group membership and cohesion. Every chair consciously worked to ensure that board member gender was not made a salient attribute or social category. Irrespective of gender, chairs encouraged board members to judge themselves as fulfilling specific components of the board skills matrix, while also identifying as a social category of highly qualified professionals rather than as unique individuals or factions categorised by gender difference or business track records. A preliminary social-psychological framework is proposed to guide future research and to promote improved boardroom practices. JEL classification: D23, D74, G41
Pediatric urology research in 2020: A bibliometric analysis of the top 100 most cited articles
Authors: Ghidini Filippo , Castagnetti Marco 
Published: December 2021

Background: Pediatric Urology deals with genitourinary diseases. Present study aimed to collect the top-cited article in Pediatric Urology in order to define the most debated and studied topics. Methods: The journals reported in “Urology & Nephrology” category of the 2019 edition of Journal Citation Reports, together with the most relevant journals of “Transplantation,” “Pediatrics,” and “Surgery” categories, were browsed. The articles of interest in Pediatric Urology with more than 50 citations were collected. A bibliometric analysis was performed to collect the top 100 cited articles. Results: The top-cited articles were published in 27 journals (23%), with a median impact factor of 2.676 (IQR 1.981–5.642). Seventeen of them (63%) belonged to “Urology and Nephrology” category. The median number of citations was 82 (IQR 64–113). The most productive journal, with 23 articles, was “The Journal of Urology.” Forty-eight top-cited articles were Guidelines or Reviews of the literature and only four papers were randomized controlled trials. The most relevant topic was “congenital anomalies” with 18 articles. As to minimally invasive surgery, eight studies were identified. All of them dealt with robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery. Two articles reported the current evidence about transitional care. Conclusions: The top-cited articles were dispersed among journals of different areas. Current scientific literature deal with congenital anomalies, more specifically with obstructive uropathies and hypospadias. In the last decade, one of the most relevant innovation in pediatric urology was the introduction of robotic surgery. Transitional care has become a timely topic.
An insight into predominance of pulmonary complications on right side in supracostal percutaneous nephrolithotomy
Authors: Anand Ajay 
Published: December 2021

Purpose: To analyse pulmonary complications following supracostal percutaneous nephrolithotomy especially after right sided supracostal punctures, both in initial and relook PCNL. Material and methods: From February 2016 till date, 90 patients underwent PCNL in Government Medical College, Jammu through supracostal puncture – 53 on right side and 37 on left side. All supracostal punctures were made about 7–8.5 cm from midline. Tract dilatation was done using metal dilators and calculi were fragmented using pneumatic lithotripsy. Patients with supracostal superior calyceal punctures were evaluated for chest complications intraoperatively by fluoroscopy, X-ray chest on evening of postoperative day 0 and repeated thereafter on third and seventh postoperative days. Results: Stone configuration included complete staghorn in 16, partial staghorn in 23, multiple stones in 16 and pelvic stone in 35 cases. Age range of patients was 07–76 years. There was 14.4% (13 out of 90) incidence of early or delayed chest complications – 20.8% (11 out of 53) on right side and 5.4% (2 out of 37) on left side. Conclusion: Pulmonary complications in supracostal punctures; especially on right side should not be underestimated. There are always chances of delayed hydrothorax after supracostal puncture. A chest X-ray should be repeated after 1 week in patients with supracostal PCNL punctures.
Remote Delivery of the Chronic Pain Self-management Program Using Self-directed Materials and Small-group Telephone Support: A Pilot Study
Authors: Sheth Khushboo , Ritter Philip L. , Lorig Kate , Steinman Lesley , FallCreek Stephanie 
Published: December 2021

A remote (telephone and tool kit) chronic pain program was studied using the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance) framework. This 6-week pilot took place in underserved communities in Cleveland, Ohio. We determined reach by the diversity of the population, nearly 50% Black and mostly low income. Effectiveness over 7 weeks was shown with validated instruments (depression, pain, sleep, quality of life, self-rated health, and self-efficacy). Changes in pain, depression, and self-efficacy were significant. ( p < .01). Remote implementation was accomplished by sending participants a box of materials (book, exercise and relaxation CDs, a self-test, and tip sheets). Participants also participated in peer-facilitated, weekly, scripted telephone calls. Maintenance was demonstrated as the study site has offered nine additional programs with more plan. In addition, 60 additional organizations are now offering the program. This proof-of-concept study offers an alternate to in-person chronic pain self-management program delivery.
Assessment of Safety of Remdesivir in Covid – 19 Patients with Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) < 30 ml/min per 1.73 m^2
Authors: Wang Shan , Huynh Christy , Islam Shahidul , Malone Brian , Masani Naveed , Joseph D’Andrea 
Published: December 2021

Purpose Safety of remdesivir in patients with renal impairment is unknown. Incidence of liver injury secondary to remdesivir is also unknown. The objective of this study is to assess the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) and to trend the liver enzymes during remdesivir treatment and change in eGFR from baseline to end of treatment as well as 48 h post completion of remdesivir therapy. Methods This is a retrospective chart review study including adult patients admitted with COVID-19 receiving remdesivir with a baseline eGFR < 30 ml/min per 1.73 m^2 from December 2020 to May 2021. The primary outcome was to assess the incidence of AKI and hepatic injury. The secondary outcome was to assess the efficacy of remdesivir defined by change in oxygen requirement. Results Seventy-one patients were included in the study. Patients experienced an improvement in eGFR from baseline (T0) to end of remdesivir treatment (T1), as well as 48 h after the end of the treatment (T2) ( + 30.3% and + 30.6% respectively, P < .0001). Creatinine reduced from baseline (T0) to T1 and T2 (-20.9% and −20.5% respectively, P < .0001). Creatinine clearance improved from baseline to T1 and T2 ( + 26.6% and + 26.2% respectively, p < .0001). Elevation of aminotransferase (AST) was observed at T1 ( + 2.5%, P  =  .727), however, AST reduction was seen at T2 (-15.8%, P  =  .021). Elevation in alanine transaminase (ALT) was observed at T1 and T2 ( + 25% and + 12%, P  =  .004 and P  =  .137 respectively). Both direct and total bilirubin remained stable and were not significantly changed from baseline. Conclusion Our study showed that remdesivir use in renally-impaired patients with eGFR < 30 ml/min is safe. Remdesivir may be considered as a therapeutic option in this population with COVID-19 infection.
The Continuing Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Physical Well-Being and Mental Health of ICU Healthcare Workers in Turkey: A Single-Centre Cross-Sectional Later-Phase Study
Authors: Duru Huseyin 
Published: December 2021

Background This study aimed to evaluate the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on physical well-being and mental health of ICU healthcare workers (HCWs). Methods A total of 51 ICU HCWs working at a tertiary care hospital were included in this cross-sectional study conducted before (January 2019-January 2020) and during (January 2021-April 2021) COVID-19 pandemic. Data on sociodemographic and work-related characteristics, COVID 19 history and current mental health issues via Hospital Anxiety-Depression Scale (HADS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-40), Suicidal Ideation Scale (SIS) and Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) were recorded. Results Overall, 62.7% of participants were nurses, heavy workload (working ≥200 h/month) was reported by 76.5% of participants and previous history of COVID-19 was confirmed by 62.7%. Current mental health issues involved poor sleep quality in majority (96.1%) of participants, anxiety (51.0%), depression (51.0%) in at least half of them and a moderate degree of emotional exhaustion Heavy workload was associated with more remarkable decrease in sleep duration (median change: −0.5 vs. −1.0 h/day, P = .020), Vit B12 (median change: 60[−48-293] vs. −65[−371-262] pg/mL, P < .001) and Vit D (median change: −1.6[−13.1-20] vs. −9.7[−39.7-21.8] ng/mL, P = .004) during pandemic, while working hours per month were also significantly higher in those with versus without anxiety (264[150-390] vs. 240[150-264] h, P = .003) and with versus without depression (264[150-390] vs. 240[150-264] h, P = .037). Conclusion Our findings indicate high prevalence of mental health issues including anxiety and depression as well as poor sleep quality and emotional burnout among ICU HCWs, particularly those with heavy workload.
Individual and Collective Positive Health Behaviors and Academic Achievement Among U.S. High School Students, Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2017
Authors: Hawkins Georgianne Tiu , Lee Seung Hee , Michael Shannon L. , Merlo Caitlin L. , Lee Sarah M. , King Brian A. , Rasberry Catherine N. , Underwood J. M. 
Published: December 2021

Purpose We examined associations between academic grades and positive health behaviors, individually and collectively, among U.S. high school students. Design Cross-sectional study design. Setting: Data were from the 2017 national Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Response rates were 75% for schools, 81% for students, and 60% overall (n = 14,765 students). Subjects Youth in grades 9th–12th. Measures We focused on youth behaviors that can prevent or delay the onset of chronic health conditions. Seven dietary, 3 physical activity, 2 sedentary screen time, and 4 tobacco product use behaviors were assessed. Variables were dichotomized (0/1) to indicate that a score was given to the positive health behavior response (e.g.,, did not smoke cigarettes = 1). A composite score was created by summing each positive health behavior response among 16 total health behaviors. Analysis Multivariable logistic regression analyses for each individual health behavior, and a multivariable negative binomial regression for the composite score, were conducted with self-reported academic grades, controlling for sex, grade in school, race/ethnicity, and body mass index (BMI) categories. Results Controlling for covariates, students who reported mostly A’s had 2.0 ( P < .001) more positive health behaviors; students who reported mostly B’s had 1.3 ( P < .001) more positive health behaviors; and students who reported mostly C’s had .78 ( P < .001) more positive health behaviors, compared to students who reported mostly D’s/F’s. Conclusions Higher academic grades are associated with more positive individual and cumulative health behaviors among high school students. Understanding these relationships can help inform efforts to create a healthy and supportive school environment and strive for health equity.
Electromagnetic interference shielding study in microwave and NIR regions by highly efficient Ag/ZnS and polyaniline-Ag/ZnS particles
Authors: Zahid Muhammad , Shakir HM Fayzan , Rehan Zulfiqar Ahmad 
Published: December 2021

The chemical oxidative polymerization and co-precipitation methods were employed for the preparations of polyaniline (PANI) and silver-doped zinc sulfide (ZnS) nanoparticles to be used for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. PVC-based composite films were fabricated by the incorporation of Ag/ZnS and PANI-Ag/ZnS nanoparticles. These nanoparticles were first analyzed by X-ray diffraction and zetasizer for their crystal structure and particle size. Prepared nanocomposite films were then analyzed for various properties like electrical conductivity, transmission in the near-infrared region (700 nm to 2500 nm), and EMI shielding efficiency in the microwave region (0.1 GHz to 20 GHz). These parameters were characterized by DC Conductivity, NIR spectroscopy, and vector network analyzer. It was found that with the addition of the concentration of nanoparticles, both values of conductivity and shielding efficiency improved. The highest attenuation value in 0.1 to 20 GHz reached 52.5 dB in 0.1 to 20 GHz frequency for 20 wt% PANI-Ag/ZnS and < 0.5% transmission was evaluated in the NIR region.
Azithromycin and Septic Shock Outcomes
Authors: Johnson Joseph M. , Yost Raymond J. , Pangrazzi Mark H. , Golden Katri A. , Soubani Ayman O. , Wahby Krista A. 
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Although there is evidence describing the immunomodulatory effects of macrolide antibiotics, there is little literature exploring the clinical effects these properties may have and their impact on measurable outcomes. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine if empiric antimicrobial regimens containing azithromycin shorten time to shock resolution. Methods: A retrospective study was performed in adults with septic shock admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) of 3 university-affiliated, urban teaching hospitals between June 2012 and June 2016. Eligible patients with septic shock required treatment with norepinephrine as the first-line vasopressor for a minimum of 4 hours and received at least 48 hours of antimicrobial treatment from the time of shock onset. Propensity scores were utilized to match patients who received azithromycin to those who did not. Results: A total of 3116 patients met initial inclusion criteria. After propensity score matching, 258 patients were included, with 124 and 134 patients in the azithromycin and control groups, respectively. Median shock duration was similar in patients treated with or without azithromycin (45.6 hr vs 59.7 hr, P = .44). In-hospital mortality was also similar (37.9% vs 38.1%, P = .979). There were no significant differences in mechanical ventilation duration, ICU length of stay (LOS), or hospital LOS. Conclusions: In patients admitted to the ICU with septic shock, empiric azithromycin did not have a significant effect on shock duration, mechanical ventilation duration, ICU LOS, hospital LOS, or in-hospital mortality.
Cellulitis in patients with chronic lower-limb lymphedema due to HIV-related Kaposi sarcoma
Authors: Volkow-Fernández Patricia , Islas-Muñoz Beda , Alatorre-Fernández Pamela , Cornejo-Juárez Patricia 
Published: December 2021

Objective Chronic Lower Limb Lymphedema (CL-LL) secondary to Kaposi sarcoma (KS) has not been recognized as a risk factor for cellulitis. The aim was to describe the clinical spectrum and use of antimicrobial prophylaxis in patients with cellulitis and CL-LL due to KS. Methods HIV patients with KS, CL-LL, and at least one episode of cellulitis seen at the AIDS Cancer Clinic at INCan in Mexico from 2004 to 2019 were included. Demographic and clinical data were obtained from medical records. Results Thirty-nine men all with CL-LL were included. Clinical factors associated with cellulitis were groin and/or lymph-node KS infiltration (69.2%), onychomycosis and/or tinea pedis (44.7%), ulcerated lesions (38.4%), and obesity (2.5%). Eighteen (46.1%) were hospitalized in the first episode and eight (20.5%) in recurrence. Six (25.3%) died, two of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), and one of septic shock. Fourteen (35.8%) had at least one recurrent episode of cellulitis. Twenty-five (64.1%) received prophylaxis. Patients without prophylaxis had significantly more unfavorable outcomes (hospitalization and recurrences) than those with prophylaxis. Conclusions CL-LL due to KS is a risk factor for cellulitis and severe complications in patients with a long life expectancy. Antimicrobial prophylaxis needs to be explored as it could prevent complications.
Reduced expression of hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 in T follicular helper cells causes autoimmunity of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Zhang Huilin , Xie Yuming , Huang Junke , Luo Danhong , Zhang Qing 
Published: December 2021

Backgroud T follicular helper (Tfh) cells have been discovered to be the main CD4+ T cells assisting B cells to produce antibody. They are over activated in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and consequently lead to excessive immunity. Hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 (HPK1) negatively regulates T cell-mediated immune responses and TCR signal. This study aimed to investigate the roles of HPK1 in SLE Tfh cells. Methods HPK1 mRNA and protein levels in Tfh cells were measured by real-time quantitative PCR and western blot analysis, respectively. The production of IL-21, B cell−activating factor (BAFF), interferon γ (IFNγ), IL-17A, IgM, IgG1, IgG2, and IgG3 were analyzed using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Tfh cells proliferation was evaluated with 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Results HPK1 mRNA and protein levels were significantly reduced in SLE Tfh cells, and negatively correlated with SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) and Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology (SLICC/ACR) Damage Index for SLE (SDI). Knocking down HPK1 with siRNA in normal Tfh cells greatly elevated Tfh cells proliferation and secretions of IL-21, BAFF, IFNγ, IgG1, IgG2, and IgG3. There were no marked alterations in IL-17A and IgM productions. The opposite effects were observed in SLE Tfh cells transfected with HPK1 overexpressing plasmid: Tfh cells proliferation and productions of IL-21, BAFF, IFNγ, IgG1, IgG2, and IgG3 were all alleviated. And there were no significant changes in IL-17A and IgM levels. Conclusion Our results suggest for the first time that inhibited expression of HPK1 in SLE Tfh cells leading to Tfh cells overactivation and B cells overstimulation, subsequently, the onset and progression of SLE.
Psychological Adjustment in Apert Syndrome: Parent and Young Person Perspectives
Authors: Netherton Jennifer , Horton Jo , Stock Nicola M , Shaw Rachel , Noons Peter , Evans Martin J. 
Published: December 2021

To date, limited research has been carried out into the psychological impact of having a diagnosis of Apert syndrome (AS) and the life experiences of families living with this condition. The aim of the current study was to explore psychological adjustment to AS from the perspectives of young people, and their parents, with the broader goal of informing care, and support for this population. Four young people (2 male) aged 11 to 15 years and their mothers were interviewed in their homes using a semistructured interview guide and photo-elicitation methods. Transcripts were analyzed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Three superordinate themes were identified from the data: (1) Acceptance and Adjustment: A Cyclical Journey; (2) A Barrier to Adjustment: Navigating Treatment; and (3) Facilitating Adjustment: Social Support. Families described adjustment as a cyclical process, which was sensitive to change, particularly in the context of ongoing medical treatment. Families also utilized many resources, particularly in the form of social support, to adjust to the challenges of AS and build resilience. The findings of this study have important implications for the implementation of patient-centered care within designated craniofacial treatment centers, which should at a minimum include the provision of reliable information throughout the treatment pathway, additional support from health professionals at key times of transition, and the coordination of support across medical teams, and other key organizations in the child's life.