bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
First ecological assessment of the endangered Lichtenfelder’s Tiger Gecko (Goniurosaurus lichtenfelderi) from northern Vietnam: micro-habitat and macro-climatic niche comparisons between island and mainland populations
Authors: Ngo Hai Ngoc , Nguyen Huy Quoc , Phan Tien Quang , Rödder Dennis , Gewiss Laurenz R. , Nguyen Truong Quang , Ziegler Thomas 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
The Lichtenfelder’s Tiger Gecko, Goniurosaurus lichtenfelderi is currently known only from northern Vietnam and southern China. Because of its restricted distribution, the species is potentially threatened by extinction due to anthropogenic impacts. Recently, the species has been listed in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as “Vulnerable” and included in CITES Appendix II and the Vietnam Governmental Decree – Group IIB. However, conservation activities to safeguard wild populations of G. lichtenfelderi have not yet been implemented due to a lack of detailed information about the population status and its ecological requirements. In this study, the micro-habitat use of G. lichtenfelderi was assessed. As a result of our field surveys, we found this species in evergreen forest areas with a high percentage of vegetation coverage and in close proximity to medium or small stream sections with rocky shelters on granitic formations. Canopy coverage, three micro-climatic variables (air, substrate temperature and humidity), weather condition and substrate type were the most important characteristics explaining the variation in the micro-habitat use of G. lichtenfelderi. Coupled with a macro-ecological (climate niche) approach, the complex niches of G. lichtenfelderi were defined by comparing them between two geographically distant populations in island and mainland sites. We found high similarities in macro-climatic and micro-habitat niches between the island and mainland populations of G. lichtenfelderi. Based on the ecological information, we recommend conservation actions to protect the core refugia of G. lichtenfelderi and reduce negative influences of anthropogenic impacts on wild populations in the future.
Macro-regional Sovereignty? China, the USA, the EU
Authors: Hrubec Marek 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
This article deals with a new practical philosophy of interactions between the West and China. It explains a new reconfiguration of three kinds of strategic relations: competition, adversary, and cooperation. It analyzes the concept of strategic sovereignty as self-reliance of major powers in key activities, which is expected to be an appropriate ultimate framework of their interactions. The article deals with the process of development of economic connections and interdependence of China and the West since the 1970s, and with its recent partial fragmentation. It explains the current approaches of the US, the EU, and China and also their prospects for the next years. Finally, the article considers the transformation of the world towards a larger sovereignty of macro-regions (the US, the EU, China) within the framework of global interactions.
Competition with Egyptian Religious Ideas in the Letter of Aristeas
Authors: Honigman Sylvie 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
The article examines afresh statements defining the divine persona of the god of the Judeans in Let. Aris. 9–34 and 128–171. They are interpreted not simply as instances of positive competition with Greek literature and philosophy, but as the product of a triangulated cultural dynamic that also included Egyptian and Greco-Egyptian religious tenets about major Egyptian deities, first and foremost Isis. The said passages in Aristeas are compared with Isidorus’ hymns to Isis Nermouthis in Narmouthis, the archives of Ḥor, and the Isis aretalogies. It is claimed that Aristeas illustrates how Alexandrian Judean authors competed with Egyptian priests and Greco-Egyptian authors in their respective pursuit of cultural acknowledgment by the socially and culturally dominant group, namely the Greeks. Aristeas replicates the Ptolemies’ “double-faced” dynastic identity, but aims to replace the Egyptian half of this double face with a Judean one.
Preoperative Statin Use is Associated With Lower Incidence of Limb Loss After Lower Extremity Endovascular Interventions
Authors: Zil-E-Ali Ahsan , Medina Daniela , Orozco David , Yang Qian , Aziz Faisal 
Published: February 2022

Background Statin therapy is the primary lipid-lowering agent used in peripheral artery disease (PAD) patients. Although the benefits of statins have been described in the literature, most studies have focused on postoperative statin use and outcomes in major upper body vasculature. Our study aimed to assess the impact of statin therapy on postoperative outcomes of lower extremity endovascular interventions including mortality and amputation rates. Methods American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database from 2012 to 2019 was utilized for this study. Patients were divided into 2 groups: those on preoperative statins (Group I) and those not on statins (Group II). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess statin’s effect on postoperative outcomes. Results A total of 12,217 patients (72.7%) were in Group I and 4599 patients (27.3%) were in Group II. The distribution of primary outcomes was as follows: Amputation (Group I: 3% vs Group II: 3.9%, P <.05) and Mortality (Group I: 1.6% vs Group II: 1.9%, P = .086). Statin use was associated with decreased amputation rates. Patients with tissue loss were 5 times more likely to undergo amputations (AOR: 5.58 [CI 2.29-13.63] P < .01) within 30-days postoperatively as compared to those whose presenting symptoms were claudication. Conclusion Statin therapy was associated with a decreased limb loss within 30-days after intervention at the time of lower extremity endovascular intervention. Patients presenting with rest pain and tissue loss had a higher incidence of limb loss than claudicants.
Effectiveness of a bandage to prevent re-dislocation after total hip arthroplasty in patients with a previous hip dislocation. A randomized controlled trial with 12-week follow-up
Authors: Mechlenburg Inger , Knak Jens , Mosegaard Sebastian Breddam , Axelsen Mette , Krarup Jensen Niels , Hansen Torben Bæk , Stilling Maiken 
Published: February 2022

Objective To investigate if using a hip bandage is more effective than standard care in the prevention of total hip arthroplasty re-dislocation in patients with a previous total hip arthroplasty dislocation. Design randomized controlled trial Setting Holstebro Regional Hospital and Viborg Regional Hospital Subjects A total of 99 patients, 51 women, mean 70.7 (SD 9.9) years were enrolled in an un-blinded, clinical randomized controlled trial. Interventions Participants with at least one previous total hip arthroplasty dislocation were randomized to either wearing a bandage reducing flexion, adduction, and internal rotation of the hip (intervention group) or to standard care (control group). The participants were followed for 12 weeks. Main follow-up measures were as follows: number of re-dislocations (primary outcome), hip disability measured with the Oxford Hip Score (0–48, 48 best), quality of life measured with the 36-Item Short Form Survey (0–100, 100 best), satisfaction with treatment and serious adverse events. Statistical analyses followed the intention-to-treat principle. Results No significant group differences were observed for the primary outcome re-dislocations (9 versus 15, P = 0.143) or for disability (11.3 versus 14.4, P = 0.161), quality of life (57.7 versus 48.3, P = 0.050) or satisfaction with treatment ( P = 0.562). There were 3 serious adverse events leading to total hip arthroplasty revision in the intervention group and 4 in the control group. Conclusion We found that a hip bandage is not superior to standard care in the prevention of total hip arthroplasty re-dislocation in those with a previous total hip arthroplasty dislocation.
“It is Easy to do Nothing and Easy to Sit Down”: Perceptions of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors During Pre-retirement
Authors: Spiteri Karl , Broom David R. , Grafton Kate , Laventure Bob , Xerri de Caro John 
Published: February 2022

This study explored the insights of old age pre-retirement employees towards physical activity and sedentary behavior. A quota sampling of 20 participants from within the Civil Service in Malta were invited to an interview. Participants who were included met the statutory requirement for retirement within the subsequent 6 months to 1 year. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using a narrative approach. Structural narrative analysis and reflective thematic analysis were used. The story structure highlighted the significance of the individual experiences on the perceptions towards future physical activity during retirement. Two themes were identified using the thematic analysis, influencers, and perceptions. Triangulation identified that sedentary behavior was not part of the narration. The transition from work to retirement is a unique and personal experience and therefore when promoting an active lifestyle, the individual experience and past behaviors must be actively considered.
Comparison of ultrasonographic echogenicity and outcome in cats with suspected pancreatitis
Authors: Lederer Kristina A , Hittmair Katharina M , Tichy Alexander , Zeugswetter Florian K 
Published: February 2022

Objectives The aim of this study was to determine whether ultrasonographic pancreatic echogenicity, especially hypoechogenicity, has an impact on the prognosis of cats with suspected pancreatitis. We hypothesised that cats with a hypoechoic pancreas have a longer duration of hospitalisation, higher treatment costs and a higher mortality rate. Methods This was a retrospective study, which included cats with clinical signs of pancreatitis, a SNAP fPL test result above the reference interval and ultrasonographic abnormalities consistent with pancreatitis. Medical records and follow-up information were retrieved from the local electronic database. Cases were assigned to one of three groups based on pancreatic echogenicity: hypoechoic, hyperechoic or mixed echogenicity. Statistical analysis aimed to assess differences in outcome, ultrasonographic abnormalities, historical features, physical examination findings, laboratory results, concurrent diseases or treatment costs. Results Thirty-six (64%) cats with a hypoechoic, seven (13%) with a hyperechoic and 13 (23%) cats with a mixed echoic pancreas were included. Cats with a hypoechoic pancreas had a significantly lower median body weight ( P = 0.010) and lower median body condition score ( P = 0.004) compared with the other cats. Furthermore, they were presented as being lethargic significantly more often ( P = 0.014), were more likely to have a homogeneously enlarged pancreas ( P <0.001) and were less likely to have concurrent abnormalities or diseases, such as ultrasonographic enteric abnormalities ( P = 0.020), triaditis ( P = 0.013) and diabetes mellitus ( P = 0.041). However, there was no difference in treatment costs ( P = 0.961), duration of hospitalisation ( P = 0.898), survival of hospitalisation ( P = 0.419) or survival time ( P = 0.256) between groups. Conclusions and relevance In this study, echogenicity was of no prognostic value in cats with suspected pancreatitis. Cats with a hypoechoic pancreas were not associated with a poorer outcome than cats with a hyperechoic or mixed echoic pancreas.
Karanahan: A Potential New Treatment Option for Human Breast Cancer and Its Validation in a Clinical Setting
Authors: Proskurina Anastasia S , Kupina Victoria V , Efremov Yaroslav R , Dolgova Evgenia V , Ruzanova Vera S , Ritter Genrikh S , Potter Ekaterina A , Kirikovich Svetlana S , Levites Evgeniy V , Ostanin Alexandr A , Chernykh Elena R , Babaeva Oksana G , Sidorov Sergey V , Bogachev Sergey S 
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Karanahan, a cancer treatment technology aimed at eradicating tumor-initiating stem cells, has already proven effective in 7 tumor models. Karanahan comprises the following procedures: (1) collecting surgical specimens, (2) determining the duration of the DNA repair process in tumor cells exposed to a cross-linking cytostatic agent, and (3) determining the time point, when cells, including tumor-initiating stem cells, are synchronized in the certain phase of the cell cycle after triple exposure to the cytostatic, becoming vulnerable for the terminal treatment, which is supposed to completely eliminate the rest of survived tumor-initiating stem cells. Determining these basic tumor properties allows to design the schedule for the administration of a cross-linking cytostatic and a complex composite DNA preparation. Being conducted in accordance with the schedule designed, Karanahan results in the large-scale apoptosis of tumor cells with elimination of tumor-initiating stem cells. Methods: Breast tumor specimens were obtained from patients, and basic tumor properties essential for conducting Karanahan therapy were determined. Results: We report the first use of Karanahan in patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Technical details of handling surgical specimens for determining the essential Karanahan parameters (tumor volume, cell number, cell proliferation status, etc) have been worked out. The terminally ill patient, who was undergoing palliative treatment and whose tumor specimen matched the required criteria, received a complete course of Karanahan. Conclusions: The results of the treatment conducted indicate that Karanahan technology has a therapeutic potency and can be used as a breast cancer treatment option.
SARS-CoV-2 infections and hospitalisations among immigrants in Norway-significance of occupation, household crowding, education, household income and medical risk: a nationwide register study
Authors: Labberton Angela S. , Godøy Anna , Elgersma Ingeborg Hess , Strand Bjørn Heine , telle Kjetil , Arnesen Trude , Nygård Karin Maria , Indseth Thor 
Published: February 2022

Background: As in other countries, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected Norway’s immigrant population disproportionately, with significantly higher infection rates and hospitalisations. The reasons for this are uncertain. Methods: Through the national emergency preparedness register, BeredtC19, we have studied laboratory-confirmed infections with SARS-CoV-2 and related hospitalisations in the entire Norwegian population, by birth-country background for the period 15 June 2020 to 31 March 2021, excluding the first wave due to limited test capacity and restrictive test criteria. Straightforward linkage of individual-level data allowed adjustment for demographics, socioeconomic factors (occupation, household crowding, education and household income), and underlying medical risk for severe COVID-19 in regression models. Results: The sample comprised 5.49 million persons, of which 0.91 million were born outside of Norway, there were 82,532 confirmed cases and 3088 hospitalisations. Confirmed infections in this period (per 100,000): foreign-born 3140, Norwegian-born with foreign-born parents 4799 and Norwegian-born with Norwegian-born parent(s) 1011. Hospitalisations (per 100,000): foreign-born 147, Norwegian-born with foreign-born parents 47 and Norwegian-born with Norwegian-born parent(s) 37. The addition of socioeconomic and medical factors to the base model (age, sex, municipality of residence) attenuated excess infection rates by 12.0% and hospitalisations by 3.8% among foreign-born, and 10.9% and 46.2%, respectively, among Norwegian-born with foreign parents, compared to Norwegian-born with Norwegian-born parent(s). Conclusions: There were large differences in infection rates and hospitalisations by country background, and these do not appear to be fully explained by socioeconomic and medical factors. Our results may have implications for health policy, including the targeting of mitigation strategies.
Outcomes of initial and repeat micro-pulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in adult glaucoma patients
Authors: Hooshmand Sara , Voss Jackson , Hirabayashi Matthew , McDaniel Lindsey , An Jella 
Published: February 2022

Background: Micro-pulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) has continued to gain popularity as a treatment in adult glaucoma patients. Thus far there is limited evidence reporting the efficaciousness and safety of retreatment. Objective: To evaluate safety and efficacy of primary and repeat MP-TSCPC procedures. Methods: Thirty-four of 67 eyes who failed to achieve target IOP from initial MP-TSCPC underwent repeat MP-TSCPC and followed for a minimum of 6 months. All treatments were performed using the laser power of 2000 or 2250 mW, duration of 100–200 s, and a velocity 16–20 s per hemisphere swipe. Success criteria were defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction of greater than 20% from baseline or any medication reduction without additional glaucoma procedures at 6 months after repeat MP-TSCPC. The 6-month success rate after repeat MP-TSCPC was also compared to that of initial MP-TSCPC in the same group of eyes. Results: Mean baseline IOP before the repeat MP-TSCPC was 23.0 + /- 5.3 on 3.0 + /- 1.4 medications. At 6 months, mean post-op IOP was 18.2 + /- 5.4 (21.9% reduction, p < 0.002), with mean medication staying relatively the same ( p = .976). Success rate was increased from 23.5% to 44.1% with the repeat procedure compared to that of initial procedure ( p = 0.123). Mean IOP reduction was also greater after repeat MP-TSCPC (18.7%, p < 0.002) when compared to initial MP-TSCPC (10.4%). No adverse events occurred. Conclusions: MP-TSCPC is a safe and effective non-invasive means to lower IOP in a variety of glaucoma patients. While over 50% (34/67) of eyes required repeat MP-TSCPC, repeat treatment resulted in greater success rates and IOP reduction without any adverse events when using the total energy between 112 and 150 J.
Clinical profile and retinal nerve fibre layer thickness of optic disc oedema patients at a tertiary care institute in North India
Authors: Sood Gitanjli , Samanta Ramanuj , Kumawat Devesh , Agrawal Ajai , Singh Anupam 
Published: February 2022

Background: Optic disc oedema (ODE) is an important manifestation in various ocular as well as systemic disorders. Measurement of retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness in ODE patients may help in monitoring the progress of the disease and treatment response. Objective: To assess the clinical characteristics, aetiology and retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) imaging features of optic disc oedema (ODE) patients. Design: A retrospective observational study. Methods: This hospital-based study included performed for patients presenting with unilateral or bilateral ODE at the ophthalmology outpatient department of a tertiary institute between January 2019 and December 2019. Clinical features of all ODE patients were noted. RNFL thickness was measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (Cirrus 500, Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA, USA). Results: Sixty-four patients with ODE were seen with female preponderance (56.2%). The mean age of presentation was 36.8 ± 13.8 years. Bilateral ODE was seen in 57.8% patients. The most common cause of bilateral ODE was idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and vascular papillopathy. Retinal vein occlusion (RVO)-associated ODE was the most common unilateral presentation. Presenting visual acuity was best with IIH and worst with anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (AION). The mean duration of symptoms was maximum with intracranial space-occupying lesion associated papilloedema and minimum with AION. The mean RNFL thickness was highest in uveitis-associated ODE, followed by compressive ON, and IIH. A positive correlation was noted between clinical ODE severity and RNFL thickness. All aetiological categories (except uveitic and compressive) had maximum RNFL thickening in the inferior quadrant and minimum in the temporal quadrant. Conclusion: The current study provides a clinical profile and RNFL measurements of ODE patients at this locality. The clinical severity of ODE correlated positively with RNFL thickness and most of the categories of ODE followed the normative pattern of RNFL thickness (inferior > superior > nasal > temporal) despite thickening.
Gene expression signatures identify biologically and clinically distinct tuberculosis endotypes
Authors: DiNardo Andrew R. , Gandhi Tanmay , Heyckendorf Jan , Grimm Sandra L. , Rajapakshe Kimal , Nishiguchi Tomoki , Reimann Maja , Kirchner H. Lester , Kahari Jaqueline , Dlamini Qiniso , Lange Christoph , Goldmann Torsten , Marwitz Sebastian ,   DZIF-TB cohort study group, Abhimanyu  , Cirillo Jeffrey D. , Kaufmann Stefan H.E. , Netea Mihai G. , van Crevel Reinout , Mandalakas Anna M. , Coarfa Cristian 
Published: February 2022

BackgroundIn vitro, animal model and clinical evidence suggests that tuberculosis is not a monomorphic disease, and that host response to tuberculosis is protean with multiple distinct molecular pathways and pathologies (endotypes). We applied unbiased clustering to identify separate tuberculosis endotypes with classifiable gene expression patterns and clinical outcomes.MethodsA cohort comprised of microarray gene expression data from microbiologically confirmed tuberculosis patients was used to identify putative endotypes. One microarray cohort with longitudinal clinical outcomes was reserved for validation, as were two RNA-sequencing (seq) cohorts. Finally, a separate cohort of tuberculosis patients with functional immune responses was evaluated to clarify stimulated from unstimulated immune responses.ResultsA discovery cohort, including 435 tuberculosis patients and 533 asymptomatic controls, identified two tuberculosis endotypes. Endotype A is characterised by increased expression of genes related to inflammation and immunity and decreased metabolism and proliferation; in contrast, endotype B has increased activity of metabolism and proliferation pathways. An independent RNA-seq validation cohort, including 118 tuberculosis patients and 179 controls, validated the discovery results. Gene expression signatures for treatment failure were elevated in endotype A in the discovery cohort, and a separate validation cohort confirmed that endotype A patients had slower time to culture conversion, and a reduced cure rate. These observations suggest that endotypes reflect functional immunity, supported by the observation that tuberculosis patients with a hyperinflammatory endotype have less responsive cytokine production upon stimulation.ConclusionThese findings provide evidence that metabolic and immune profiling could inform optimisation of endotype-specific host-directed therapies for tuberculosis.