bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Micro‐testicular sperm extraction outcomes for non‐obstructive azoospermia in a single large clinic in Victoria
Authors: Lantsberg Daniel , Mizrachi Yossi , Katz Darren J. 
Published: February 2022

AimsTo evaluate the results of microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro‐TESE) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for treatment of non‐obstructive azoospermia (NOA).Materials and methodsWe retrospectively analysed data of 88 consecutive patients with clinical NOA who were treated with micro‐TESE by a single surgeon, between August 2014 and September 2020, in Melbourne, Victoria. Upon a successful sperm retrieval, sperm was either used fresh for ICSI, frozen for future use or both. The outcome measures were sperm retrieval rate (SRR), and in vitro fertilisation (IVF)/ICSI results. Furthermore, SRR was calculated for the predominant causes and histopathological patterns.ResultsThe overall SRR was 61.2%. It was significantly higher in patients with a history of cryptorchidism and other childhood diseases (100%) than in the other NOA groups (P < 0.05). Patients with Klinefelter syndrome had a 75% SRR. Among the different types of testicular histology, the highest SRR were noted in patients with complete hyalinisation (100%) and hypospermatogenesis (92.9%), and low with Sertoli cell‐only syndrome (46.3%). The SRR has significantly increased from 33.3% in 2015–2016 to 73.6% in 2019–2020 (P = 0.009). Of the 52 patients with SSR, 47 underwent IVF/ICSI. Fertilisation rate was 42.4%. Twenty‐nine couples achieved at least one good‐quality embryo and had embryo transfer. Nineteen achieved pregnancy (40.4%), and in three patients a miscarriage resulted.ConclusionsThis is the first report from Australia showing that micro‐TESE is an effective treatment for NOA with high SRR. The increasing success rates over several years indicate the importance of surgical skill and laboratory staff experience.
There is power in a union? Union members' preferences and the conditional effect of labour unions on left parties in different welfare state programmes
Authors: Engler Fabian , Voigt Linda 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThis article studies the effect of labour unions on policy‐making in six different parts of the welfare state (passive and active labour market policy, employment protection, old‐age pensions, health care and education) in OECD countries after 1980 with a two‐level strategy: At the micro‐level, we investigate union members’ preferences. Ordered logit regression analyses indicate that union members favour generous social policies more strongly than non‐members. Moreover, this effect is stronger for programmes closely related to the labour market than for programmes without a strong labour market link. At the macro‐level, we investigate the conditional effect of unions on left parties expecting the former to push the left towards more generous labour market‐related (but not towards less‐labour market‐related) programmes. Regression analyses essentially provide evidence for such a relationship. Overall, unions have been powerful in promoting their members’ social policy preferences via left parties in government but their power is recently vanishing.
Measuring the impact of a training intervention for early childhood centre staff on child development outcomes: Findings from a cluster randomized control field trial in rural Malawi
Authors: Jolley Emma , Bechange Stevens , Mankhwazi Mika , Mbukwa Ngwira Jenipher , Murphy Rachel , Schmidt Elena , Lynch Paul 
Published: February 2022

AbstractBackgroundEvidence from low‐income settings around early education interventions that can improve young children's development is sparse, particularly with regard to the most marginalized children. This study used a two‐arm parallel cluster randomized control design to evaluate the impact of an adapted staff training programme on the developmental outcomes of children attending community‐based early learning centres in Thyolo district, rural Malawi.MethodsAt baseline we randomly selected 48 centres, from each of which 20 children were randomly selected, although data from one centre was incomplete resulting in 932 children from 47 centres. Centres were randomly allocated to either the intervention or control arm. Twelve months later, follow‐up data were collected from 44 centres. At baseline and endline, community‐based childcare centre (CBCC) managers provided information about the centre, and parents/guardians provided information on the children, including the primary outcomes of age‐standardized development scores in the language and social domains, measured using the Malawi Developmental Assessment Tool. Children in the bottom 2.5 percentile of either domain were considered to have a delay; a third outcome variable, Any Delay, was developed to indicate children with a delay in either or both domains. Centre‐level mean scores were calculated, and linear regression models were constructed to assess differences between baseline and endline and between allocation groups.ResultsAnalysis of the difference between baseline and endline measures in the allocation groups shows a non‐significant reduction in delay associated with the study intervention across all domains. Adjustment for baseline characteristics within the CBCCs showed little impact on the magnitude of the observed effect, and the difference remained non‐significant.ConclusionsDespite no observed differences between allocation groups, the data did indicate a positive change in the intervention groups in both domains, particularly language. Community‐based early learning in Malawi holds tremendous potential for promoting inclusive development and learning.
Effectiveness of school‐based strategies to prevent tooth decay in Filipino children: A cluster‐randomized trial
Authors: Ruff Ryan Richard , Monse Bella , Duijster Denise , Itchon Gina Santos , Naliponguit Ella , Benzian Habib 
Published: February 2022

AbstractObjectivesEvidence for affordable and pragmatic programmes to address the burden of untreated tooth decay in children in low‐ and middle‐income settings is limited. This study aimed to (1) assess the effect of a government‐run, school‐based daily group toothbrushing programme compared to standard school‐based oral health education on the incidence of dental caries and odontogenic infections in Filipino children over a period of 3 years; and (2) assess the additional preventive effect of on‐demand oral urgent treatment (OUT) and weekly fluoride gel application.MethodsA cluster‐randomized trial was conducted in Camiguin, Philippines. Schools in three regions were randomly assigned to one of three intervention groups: The Essential Health Care Programme (EHCP), which includes daily toothbrushing with fluoride toothpaste; EHCP plus twice‐yearly access to on‐demand urgent oral treatment (EHCP + OUT) and EHCP plus weekly application of high‐concentrated fluoride gel (EHCP + Fluoride). Schools in a nearby province with a similar child population were selected as external concurrent control group. Clinical oral examinations were performed by calibrated dentists from a random sample of 682 seven‐year‐old students who were examined at baseline and over the following 3 years. Outcome variables were the number of decayed primary teeth, the number of decayed, missing and filled permanent teeth (DMFT) and surfaces (DMFS), and the number of permanent teeth with pulpal involvement, ulcerations, fistula or abscess (PUFA). Data were analysed using multilevel mixed‐effects negative binomial regression.ResultsThree years after implementation, increments in dental caries and odontogenic infections in permanent teeth did not significantly differ between the EHCP and control group, yet the incidence of DMFT was lower by 22% in children receiving EHCP. Compared to controls, children receiving EHCP + Fluoride had a significantly lower increment of DMFT, DMFS and PUFA by 40%, 40% and 47%, respectively. Children receiving EHCP + OUT had lower incidence rates of DMFT and DMFS than control children by 23% and 28%, respectively. A lower incidence rate was also found for PUFA, but the effect was not statistically significant.ConclusionsFindings suggest that the weekly application of fluoride gel and urgent oral treatment, in addition to daily school‐based toothbrushing with fluoride toothpaste, are realistic and effective strategies to lower the burden of dental caries in Filipino children. Implementation challenges may explain why no substantial caries‐preventive benefits were demonstrated for school‐based toothbrushing only. Intervention compliance should be considered in future programme implementation and evaluation research.
Kidney failure in Bardet–Biedl syndrome
Authors: Meyer Jennifer R. , Krentz Anthony D. , Berg Richard L. , Richardson Jesse G. , Pomeroy Jeremy , Hebbring Scott J. , Haws Robert M. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe aim of this study was to explore kidney failure (KF) in Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS), focusing on high‐risk gene variants, demographics, and morbidity. We employed the Clinical Registry Investigating BBS (CRIBBS) to identify 44 (7.2%) individuals with KF out of 607 subjects. Molecularly confirmed BBS was identified in 37 KF subjects and 364 CRIBBS registrants. KF was concomitant with recessive causal variants in 12 genes, with BBS10 the most predominant causal gene (26.6%), while disease penetrance was highest in SDCCAG8 (100%). Two truncating variants were present in 67.6% of KF cases. KF incidence was increased in genes not belonging to the BBSome or chaperonin‐like genes (p < 0.001), including TTC21B, a new candidate BBS gene. Median age of KF was 12.5 years, with the vast majority of KF occurring by 30 years (86.3%). Females were disproportionately affected (77.3%). Diverse uropathies were identified, but were not more common in the KF group (p = 0.672). Kidney failure was evident in 11 of 15 (73.3%) deaths outside infancy. We conclude that KF poses a significant risk for premature morbidity in BBS. Risk factors for KF include female sex, truncating variants, and genes other than BBSome/chaperonin‐like genes highlighting the value of comprehensive genetic investigation.
Breast cancer and incident cardiovascular events: A systematic analysis at the nationwide level
Authors: Gue Ying X. , Bisson Arnaud , Bodin Alexandre , Herbert Julien , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Fauchier Laurent 
Published: February 2022

AbstractBackgroundBreast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and the treatments are frequently cardiotoxic. Whether BC is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events is a matter of debate. We evaluated the associations among BC and incident cardiovascular events in a contemporary population.MethodsAll female patients discharged from French hospitals in 2013 with at least 5 years of follow‐up and without a history of major adverse cardiovascular event (myocardial infarction [MI], heart failure [HF], ischaemic stroke or all‐cause death, and MACE‐HF, which includes cardiovascular death, MI, ischaemic stroke or HF) or cancer (except BC) were identified. After propensity score matching, patients with BC were matched 1:1 with patients with no BC. Hazard ratios (HRs) for cardiovascular events during follow‐up were adjusted on age, sex and smoking status at baseline.Results1,795,759 patients were included, among whom 64,480 (4.3%) had history of BC. During a mean follow‐up of 5.1 years, matched female patients with BC had a higher risk of all‐cause death (HR 3.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.47–3.64), new‐onset HF (HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04–1.11), major bleeding (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.36–1.49), MACE‐HF (HR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.11) and net adverse clinical events (NACE) including all‐cause death, MI, ischaemic stroke, HF or major bleeding (HR 2.53, 95% CI 2.48–2.58) compared with those with no BC. By contrast, risks were not higher for cardiovascular death (HR 0.94, 95% CI 0.88–1.00) and were lower for MI (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.75–0.88) and ischaemic stroke (HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.79–1.11).ConclusionsIn a large and contemporary analysis of female patients seen in French hospitals, women with history of breast cancer had a higher risk of all‐cause mortality, new‐onset heart failure and major bleeding compared to a matched cohort of women without breast cancer. In contrast, they have a reduced risk of cardiovascular mortality, MI and stroke.
Increased serum diamine oxidase activity in nonallergic patients with migraine
Authors: García‐Martín Elena , Navarro‐Muñoz Santiago , Amo Gemma , Rodriguez Christopher , Serrador Mercedes , Alonso‐Navarro Hortensia , Calleja Marisol , Turpín‐Fenoll Laura , Recio‐Bermejo Marta , García‐Ruiz Rafael , Millán‐Pascual Jorge , Navacerrada Francisco , Plaza‐Nieto José Francisco , García‐Albea Esteban , Agúndez José A.G. , Jiménez‐Jiménez Félix Javier 
Published: February 2022

AbstractBackground/objectivesHistamine has shown a possible role in the etiopathogenesis of migraine. It has been reported an association between some polymorphisms in the diamine oxidase (DAO) gene and migraine, especially in women. Two studies addressing DAO activity in migraine patients showed conflicting results. We investigated the possible relationship of serum DAO activity and histamine levels and 3 polymorphisms in the DAO gene with the risk for migraine.MethodsWe studied the frequencies of DAO rs10156191, rs1049742 and rs1049793 genotypes and allelic variants in 298 migraine patients and 360 healthy controls (using a TaqMan‐based qPCR assay), and serum DAO activity and histamine levels in a subset of 99 migraine patients and 115 controls with strict exclusion criteria, and analysed the relationship of these variables with several clinical features of migraine.ResultsThe frequencies of the DAO genotypes and allelic variants analysed were similar in migraine patients and controls. Serum DAO activity was significantly higher in migraine patients (Vmax/Km 4.24 ± 2.93 vs. 3.60 ± 7.64, p < 0.001), especially in females (Vmax/Km 4.63 ± 2.96 vs. 3.18 ± 2.32, p < 0.0001), while serum histamine was similar in both study groups.ConclusionSerum DAO activity was increased in patients with migraine, especially in females, while serum histamine levels were normal. None of the studied polymorphisms was associated with the risk for migraine.
The role and challenges of public service organisations in the labour market integration of refugees: A relational perspective analysing integration measures in Austria, Finland, Germany and Sweden
Authors: Bešić Almina , Fóti Klára , Vasileva Veronika 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe need to integrate refugees into the labour markets across the European Union has put public service organisations at the forefront of support provision, but little is known about their role and challenges. This study investigates how these organisations in Austria, Finland, Germany and Sweden organise labour market integration support measures for refugees and the challenges they face in doing so. Using a relational framework, we draw on the understanding that labour market integration occurs at the interplay between the institutional, organisational and individual level. Thematic analysis based on 23 interviews with representatives from public service organisations and their partners revealed challenges across different levels related to specificities of refugees, mental health issues, training and motivation of staff and public‐private cooperation. We show the interrelations of these levels and implications on public service organisations. We propose a holistic approach for labour market integration support, with the organisations at the centre.
Pyoderma gangrenosum: A systematic review of the molecular characteristics of disease
Authors: Flora Akshay , Kozera Emily , Frew John W. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractPyoderma gangrenosum is a painful recurrent ulcerative neutrophilic dermatosis in which the pathogenesis is incompletely defined. Current evidence suggests that PG is associated with dysregulation of components of both the innate and adaptive immune system with dysregulation of neutrophil function and contribution of the Th17 immune axis. PG can be present in numerous heterogeneous clinical presentations and be associated with multiple inflammatory conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and hidradenitis suppurativa. However, no critical evaluation of the observed molecular characteristics in PG studies in association with their clinical findings has been assessed. Additionally, emerging evidence suggests a potential role for other cell types and immune pathways including B cells, macrophages, autoantibodies and the complement system in PG, although these have not yet been integrated into the pathogenesis of disease. This systematic review aims to critically evaluate the current molecular observations regarding the pathogenesis of PG and discuss associations with clinical characteristics as well as the evidence supporting novel cell types and immune pathways in PG.
Calcium dobesilate protects against d‐galactose‐induced hepatic and renal dysfunction, oxidative stress, and pathological damage
Authors: Hakimizadeh Elham , Zamanian Mohammad Yassin , Damankhorshid Morteza , Giménez‐Llort Lydia , Sciorati Clara , Nikbakhtzadeh Marjan , Moradbeygi Khadijeh , Kujawska Małgorzata , Kaeidi Ayat , Taghipour Zahra , Fatemi Iman 
Published: February 2022

AbstractCalcium dobesilate (CaD) is used for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy. This agent exerts antioxidant effects. In the present study, we evaluated the protective effects of oral administration of CaD against hepatorenal damages in a mice model of aging induced by d‐galactose (d‐gal). We used 28 male albino mice, which equally and randomly were divided into four groups as follows: intact, aging (d‐gal at the dose of 500 mg/kg, p.o.), aging + CaD 50 (d‐gal plus CaD at the dose of 50 mg/kg), and aging + CaD 100 (d‐gal plus CaD at the dose of 100 mg/kg, p.o.). All drugs were administered orally once a day for 42 days. The liver and kidney damages were evaluated by measuring mass indices, levels of serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, and activities of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase and by histopathological evaluation. Moreover, hepatic and renal tissue oxidant/antioxidant markers (malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) were measured. The results showed that d‐gal treatment induced significant oxidative stress in the kidney and liver that was paralleled by dysfunctions and histological alterations of these organs. CaD significantly improved the liver and kidney indices, implemented functional capacity of the liver and kidney, as well as decreased oxidative stress enhancing antioxidative enzyme activities. CaD treatment also inhibited the development of histological alterations of both kidney and liver. CaD might represent a promising therapeutic agent for the attenuation of hepatorenal injuries induced by aging.
A modified energy model including mean stress and creep threshold stress effect for creep–fatigue life prediction
Authors: Song Kai , Zhao Lei , Xu Lianyong , Han Yongdian , Hao Kangda 
Published: February 2022

AbstractCreep–fatigue interaction plays an important role in the failure of high‐temperature components. However, most of the existing life prediction limits materials and testing conditions. The present study was conducted to modify the strain energy density exhaustion model systematically to predict the creep–fatigue life under a wide range of materials, hold times, and total strain ranges. Mean stress effect was considered by the creep–fatigue net tensile hysteretic energy to eliminate the overestimation of fatigue damage in the traditional method, while creep threshold stress was introduced to estimate the creep damage. In addition, a novel failure strain energy model was proposed to describe the correlation among failure strain energy, creep failure mechanisms, and temperatures. Based on the tension‐hold creep–fatigue data of Grade 91 steel, 304 SS, Alloy 617, and 1Cr1Mo0.25V steel, the modified model predicted reasonable lives within a ±1.5 scatter band.
Global trends health science libraries: Part 3
Authors: Murphy Jeannette 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThis is the last of three articles based on a series of articles published in the Health Information and Libraries Journal's Regular Feature (International Perspectives and Initiatives). Key trends from 12 countries in Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia were identified. In this issue, the last five trends are considered: (1) Participation in collaborations, networks, partnerships, social networks; (2) Repurposing library space; (3) Focus on user experience; (4) Impact of technology on the provision of services; and (5) Engaging with the public. Readers are challenged to compare these trends with their own experiences.
Is transvaginal mesh procedure a potential measure for pelvic organ prolapse repair when performed by expert surgeons?
Authors: Takeyama Masami , Kuwata Tomoko , Kato Chikako , Kashihara Hiromi , Watanabe Masaki , Kinoshita Rie , Hirota Miho 
Published: February 2022

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to verify the safety and efficacy of transvaginal mesh by analyzing the 2‐year follow‐up data of patients performed by a surgeon with a high volume of procedures.MethodsA total of 617 patients with pelvic organ prolapse underwent transvaginal mesh by a single surgeon. Complications and anatomical status of each patient were examined up to 24 months after surgery. Risk factors for the recurrence were also analyzed.ResultsRegarding complications, we experienced 10 patients (3.8%) of bladder injuries in anterior transvaginal mesh and eight (3.4%) in anterior and posterior transvaginal mesh. Massive blood loss was observed in four patients, but there was no case of blood transfusion. Mesh exposures were seen in seven patients (1.2%). A total of 100 patients (16.2%) had prolapse recurrence, defined as the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System stage ≥II. As to recurrences on the operated compartments, we observed five patients (2.0%) for anterior transvaginal mesh, three (6.5%) for posterior transvaginal mesh, five (7.4%) for combined transvaginal mesh, and 31 (14.2%) in anterior and posterior transvaginal mesh. Regarding Point C before operation in the anterior and posterior transvaginal mesh, the recurrence rates were more than 23% in patients with a Point C of 4 or more. Binominal regression analyses showed that higher body mass index, younger age, and higher stage of uterine prolapse were significant risk factors.ConclusionsThe transvaginal mesh surgery is safe when conducted by experts. However, the recurrence rate may exceed 20% for high‐stage uterine prolapse even when conducted by experts.