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Background: Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common acquired heart disease in dogs. Mitral valvuloplasty (MVP) addresses regurgitation, but the pre- and postoperative changes in myocardial function remain uncertain. Objectives: This study evaluated myocardial motion before and after MVP using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). Animals: Eight client-owned dogs undergoing MVP for MMVD. Methods: Myocardial deformation was assessed by 2D-STE before surgery and at 1- and 3-months post-surgery. Measurements included left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), global radial strain (GRS), cardiac twist, and right ventricular free wall GLS (RVFW-GLS). Results: Postoperative decreases were observed in left ventricular internal dimensions, left atrial size, and early diastolic myocardial velocity, with an increase in peak late diastolic velocity. LV-GLS decreased at 1 month (−14.4%) and 3 months (−16.3%) compared to preoperative values (−24.4%) (p = 0.0078, p = 0.015). GCS decreased at 1 month (−12.9%) and 3 months (−14.8%) compared to preoperative values (−21.7%) (p = 0.0078). GRS decreased at 1 month (27.7%) and 3 months (32.0%) compared to preoperative values (67.7%) (p = 0.0078). No significant changes were observed in RVFW-GLS. Peak systolic twist increased at 3 months (9.1° vs. 4.9°, p = 0.039). Peak systolic apical rotation showed an upward trend at 3 months (p = 0.109). Left ventricular twist was mildly affected by LVIDd, LVIDDN, and sphericity index (R 2 = 0.187, p = 0.034; R 2 = 0.33, p = 0.0029; R 2 = 0.22, p = 0.019). Conclusions and clinical importance: Postoperative myocardial motion approached reference values, indicating significant improvement, particularly in left ventricular twisting motion. These findings highlight the positive impact of surgery on cardiac function in dogs with MMVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left ventricle (LV) volume overload is observed with hemodynamically significant PDA as it causes left to right shunting, leading to increased pulmonary blood flow. This overload causes LV remodeling as LV increases stroke volume in trial for compensation, but in larger shunts, patients may develop symptoms of congestive heart failure. Two-dimensional (2D) speckle-tracking echocardiography has emerged as a technique for objective and quantitative evaluation of global and regional myocardial function, independent of the angle of myocardial insonation. Aim of the work: This study aimed to evaluate left ventricular function by 2-dimensional speckle tracking in children with hemodynamically significant PDA. Methods: This prospective controlled study was performed on 54 children divided into two groups (34 as cases and 20 as controls) to compare echocardiographic measurements. Conventional Echocardiography, tissue Doppler, and Speckle tracking were done for all patients, and measurements were compared. Results: There was a statistically significant difference (p value < 0.001) in global longitudinal strain (GLS) in the PDA group indicating a decrease in LV function in PDA patients. This difference was observed in several conventional echocardiographic parameters but not in tissue Doppler in our study. Conclusion: Left ventricle global strain is an important predictor of the myocardial performance index of the Left ventricle in patients with hemodynamically significant PDA and outweighs other conventional echocardiographic parameters and tissue Doppler indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Models of migratory behavior predict trade‐offs between fitness costs and benefits with respect to migration distance. Shorter migration distances may confer a fitness benefit by facilitating earlier breeding, however this is rarely investigated. We tested this hypothesis using a large‐scale geolocation (GLS) dataset from 109 rhinoceros auklets (Cerorhinca monocerata), a differentially migrating seabird, that was tagged at 12 breeding colonies along the Pacific Coast of North America, spanning southern California to the eastern Aleutian Islands, Alaska. Using GLS‐based position estimates, we determined the geographic centroid of the pelagic areas occupied by birds in winter (1 January–28 February) and then calculated the distance between their wintering centroids and colony of origin. We then used GLS light‐intensity and salt‐water immersion (wet/dry) data to determine each individual's date of egg‐laying the following spring. Rhinoceros auklets were very widely distributed across the northeastern Pacific Ocean in winter. Among all individuals, the distance between winter centroids and breeding colonies ranged from < 100 to > 2500 km, being greater among individuals originating from colonies at higher latitudes. As predicted, migration distance and colony latitude were positively related to lay date: after accounting for colony‐level differences in phenology, individuals that migrated shorter distances tended to lay their eggs earlier, a pattern that emerged across all populations. Our study links the migration distance of rhinoceros auklets to a fitness‐related outcome, underscoring the selective pressure that migration exerts on subsequent breeding activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a dearth of studies investigating the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of either anogenital lichen sclerosus or extragenital lichen sclerosus, a condition that, if left untreated, could lead to a greater degree of scarring and malignant transformation. Objective: This study aims to analyze the demographic characteristics, clinicopathological features, treatment response, and outcomes of patients diagnosed with either anogenital or extragenital lichen sclerosus who received hydroxychloroquine therapy. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted involving 70 patients diagnosed with lichen sclerosus who underwent treatment with hydroxychloroquine at our institution between 2018 and 2023. Results: Among the cohort, 67 patients were female, and 3 were male. Extragenital lichen sclerosus was diagnosed in 23 patients, with 16 exhibiting concomitant morphea overlap. Itching was the predominant clinical presentation (67%). A notable proportion of patients (36%) had a connective tissue disorder, prompting hydroxychloroquine therapy. Among the 30 patients treated solely for lichen sclerosus, 21 demonstrated response and 9 had no response. From a broader comparison of response to hydroxychloroquine, the overall anogenital response rate was 84.6% as opposed to 50% in extragenital lichen sclerosus. The median time to initial response was 4 months. Adverse effects, predominantly mild, were observed in 10 (14.3%) patients. Limitation: This study is constrained by its retrospective nature and reliance on data from a single center, resulting in a limited sample size. Conclusion: Hydroxychloroquine demonstrates promise as a therapeutic option for anogenital lichen sclerosus because of its favorable response rates and low incidence of adverse effects. However, further investigations, including larger‐scale or prospective studies, are imperative to ascertain its definitive efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The level of detail on modern geological models requires higher resolution grids that may render the simulation of multiphase flow in porous media intractable. Moreover, these models may comprise highly heterogeneous media with phenomena taking place in different scales. Scale transferring techniques allow for the solution of such problems in a lower resolution scale at reduced computational cost. Among these techniques, the Multiscale Finite Volume (MsFV) method constructs a set of numerical operators in order to map quantities from the fine-scale mesh to a coarser one and vice-versa while maintaining flux conservation on both scales. However, the MsFV formulation, as originally stated, is only consistent on k-orthogonal grids since it uses a linear Two-point Flux Approximation (TPFA) method and may struggle to generate consistent primal-dual coarse grids pairs on unstructured grids. The Multiscale Restriction Smoothed-Basis method (MsRSB) improves on the MsFV by introducing a new iterative procedure to find the multiscale operators and the concept of support regions which reduces the method's complexity when applied to unstructured fine and coarse grids. The original version was only consistent on k-orthogonal fine grids due to the TPFA discretization, but filtering methods have been developed to also enable consistent multipoint schemes on the fine scale. Meanwhile, the Multiscale Control Volume method (MsCV) replaces the TPFA by the Multipoint Flux Approximation with a Diamond stencil (MPFA-D) scheme on the fine-scale while further enhancing the generation of the geometric entities to allow unstructured grids on the fine and coarse scales for two-dimensional simulations. In this work we propose an extension to three-dimensional geometries of both the MsCV and the algorithm to obtain the multiscale geometric entities based on the concept of a background grid, a coarser grid used as a proxy for the primal coarse grid. We modify the original MPFA-D method to use the very robust Global Least Squares (GLS) interpolation technique to obtain the required auxiliary nodal unknowns. We also introduce an enhanced version of the 3-D MsCV with the incorporation of the enhanced MsRSB (E-MsRSB) to enforce M-matrix properties and improve convergence. Finally, we employ the MsCV operators in a two-stage smoother to show how it can be used as a good iterative procedure to recover the fine-scale solution. We show that the 3-D MsCV method produces good results employing unstructured grids on both scales to handle the simulation of the single-phase flow in anisotropic, and heterogeneous porous media and that the smoothing procedure is able to accurately retrieve the fine-scale solution within a few iterations. • The Multiscale Control Volume method (MsCV) simulates 3-D single-phase flow in heterogeneous and anisotropic porous media. • An Enhanced Multiscale Control Volume method (E-MsCV) is proposed to improve the computation of the basis functions. • The background grid framework for the generation of the multiscale geometric entities is extended to 3-D applications. • The MsCV and the E-MsCV work with structured and unstructured grids on both scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Tafamidis improves clinical outcomes in transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR‐CM), yet how tafamidis affects cardiac structure and function remains poorly described. This study prospectively analysed the effect of tafamidis on 12‐month longitudinal changes in cardiac structure and function by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) compared with the natural course of disease in an untreated historic control cohort. Methods and results: ATTR‐CM patients underwent CMR at tafamidis initiation and at 12 months. Untreated patients with serial CMRs served as reference to compare biventricular function, global longitudinal strain (GLS), LV mass and extracellular volume fraction (ECV). Thirty‐six tafamidis‐treated (n = 35; 97.1% male) and 15 untreated patients (n = 14; 93.3% male) with a mean age of 78.3 ± 6.5 and 76.9 ± 6.5, respectively, and comparable baseline characteristics were included. Tafamidis was associated with preserving biventricular function (LVEF (%): 50.5 ± 12 to 50.7 ± 11.5, P = 0.87; RVEF (%): 48.2 ± 10.4 to 48.2 ± 9.4, P = 0.99) and LV‐GLS (−9.6 ± 3.2 to −9.9 ± 2.4%; P = 0.595) at 12 months, while a significantly reduced RV‐function (50.8 ± 7.3 to 44.2 ± 11.6%, P = 0.028; P (change over time between groups) = 0.032) and numerically worsening LVGLS (−10.9 ± 3.3 to −9.1 ± 2.9%, P = 0.097; P (change over time between groups) = 0.048) was observed without treatment. LV mass significantly declined with tafamidis (184.7 ± 47.7 to 176.5 ± 44.3 g; P = 0.011), yet remained unchanged in untreated patients (163.8 ± 47.5 to 171.2 ± 39.7 g P = 0.356, P (change over time between groups) = 0.027). Irrespective of tafamidis, ECV and native T1‐mapping did not change significantly from baseline to 12‐month follow‐up (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Compared with untreated ATTR‐CM patients, initiation of tafamidis preserved CMR‐measured biventricular function and reduced LV mass at 12 months. ECV and native T1‐mapping did not change significantly comparable to baseline in both groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to scrutinize the effect of Green technology innovation, digitalization, renewable energy use, environmental taxes, GDP, energy prices, and population on energy efficiency in a panel comprising 22 member nations of the European Union. Using the generalized least squares and the panel-corrected standard error, we found (1) the positive effect of digitalization, green patterns, and renewable sources on energy efficiency. (2) The environmental tax has a limited and insignificant effect. (3) On the contrary, the population, GDP, and energy prices negatively affect energy efficiency. Based on the findings, relevant economic and environmental policies have been proposed for energy, technology stakeholders, and policy decision-makers, including substantial investment in digital infrastructure to facilitate the adoption of smart grids, Internet of Things devices, and advanced data analytics for energy management [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Left ventricle (LV) volume overload is observed with hemodynamically significant PDA as it causes left to right shunting, leading to increased pulmonary blood flow. This overload causes LV remodeling as LV increases stroke volume in trial for compensation, but in larger shunts, patients may develop symptoms of congestive heart failure. Two-dimensional (2D) speckle-tracking echocardiography has emerged as a technique for objective and quantitative evaluation of global and regional myocardial function, independent of the angle of myocardial insonation. Aim of the work This study aimed to evaluate left ventricular function by 2-dimensional speckle tracking in children with hemodynamically significant PDA. Methods This prospective controlled study was performed on 54 children divided into two groups (34 as cases and 20 as controls) to compare echocardiographic measurements. Conventional Echocardiography, tissue Doppler, and Speckle tracking were done for all patients, and measurements were compared. Results There was a statistically significant difference (p value

Abstract Aims Tafamidis improves clinical outcomes in transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR‐CM), yet how tafamidis affects cardiac structure and function remains poorly described. This study prospectively analysed the effect of tafamidis on 12‐month longitudinal changes in cardiac structure and function by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) compared with the natural course of disease in an untreated historic control cohort. Methods and results ATTR‐CM patients underwent CMR at tafamidis initiation and at 12 months. Untreated patients with serial CMRs served as reference to compare biventricular function, global longitudinal strain (GLS), LV mass and extracellular volume fraction (ECV). Thirty‐six tafamidis‐treated (n = 35; 97.1% male) and 15 untreated patients (n = 14; 93.3% male) with a mean age of 78.3 ± 6.5 and 76.9 ± 6.5, respectively, and comparable baseline characteristics were included. Tafamidis was associated with preserving biventricular function (LVEF (%): 50.5 ± 12 to 50.7 ± 11.5, P = 0.87; RVEF (%): 48.2 ± 10.4 to 48.2 ± 9.4, P = 0.99) and LV‐GLS (−9.6 ± 3.2 to −9.9 ± 2.4%; P = 0.595) at 12 months, while a significantly reduced RV‐function (50.8 ± 7.3 to 44.2 ± 11.6%, P = 0.028; P (change over time between groups) = 0.032) and numerically worsening LVGLS (−10.9 ± 3.3 to −9.1 ± 2.9%, P = 0.097; P (change over time between groups) = 0.048) was observed without treatment. LV mass significantly declined with tafamidis (184.7 ± 47.7 to 176.5 ± 44.3 g; P = 0.011), yet remained unchanged in untreated patients (163.8 ± 47.5 to 171.2 ± 39.7 g P = 0.356, P (change over time between groups) = 0.027). Irrespective of tafamidis, ECV and native T1‐mapping did not change significantly from baseline to 12‐month follow‐up (P > 0.05). Conclusions Compared with untreated ATTR‐CM patients, initiation of tafamidis preserved CMR‐measured biventricular function and reduced LV mass at 12 months. ECV and native T1‐mapping did not change significantly comparable to baseline in both groups.

Glutamine‐addicted cancer metabolism is recently recognized as novel cancer target especially for KRAS and KEAP1 co‐occurring mutations. To identify more drug‐like GLS inhibitors, we report the amides in the wing macrocycles for GLS inhibition with unique SAR analysis. Although the amidotriazoles (amides in the wing) are in general less potent than those of acylaminothiadiazole analogs (reverse amides in the wing), macrocycle 4, 5, and 7 are selected as a potent macrocyclic GLS inhibitor in both biochemical and cell viability assays. Selected molecules result in partial reduction in intracellular glutamate levels in LR (LDK378‐resistant) cells which is consistent to their cells viability result. Finally, selected compounds reduce the growth of A549 and H460 cells which have co‐occurring mutations including KRAS and KEAP1. The putative binding mode of macrocycle 4 is also suggested using a molecular docking model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEEs) (OMIM#618,328) is characterized by seizures, hypotonia, and brain abnormalities, often arising from mutations in genes crucial for brain function. Among these genes, GLS stands out due to its vital role in the central nervous system (CNS), with homozygous variants potentially causing DEE type 71. Using Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) on a patient exhibiting symptoms of epileptic encephalopathy, we identified a novel homozygous variant, NM_014905.5:c.1849G > T; p.(Asp617Tyr), in the GLS gene. The 5-year-old patient, born to consanguineous parents, presented with developmental delay, encephalopathy, frequent seizures, and hypotonia. Sanger sequencing further validated the GLS gene variant in both the patient and his family. Furthermore, our bioinformatics analysis indicated that this missense variant could lead to alteration of splicing, resulting in the activation of a cryptic donor site and potentially causing loss of protein function. Our finding highlights the pathogenic significance of the GLS gene, particularly in the context of brain disorders, specifically DEE71. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Models of migratory behavior predict trade‐offs between fitness costs and benefits with respect to migration distance. Shorter migration distances may confer a fitness benefit by facilitating earlier breeding, however this is rarely investigated. We tested this hypothesis using a large‐scale geolocation (GLS) dataset from 109 rhinoceros auklets (Cerorhinca monocerata), a differentially migrating seabird, that was tagged at 12 breeding colonies along the Pacific Coast of North America, spanning southern California to the eastern Aleutian Islands, Alaska. Using GLS‐based position estimates, we determined the geographic centroid of the pelagic areas occupied by birds in winter (1 January–28 February) and then calculated the distance between their wintering centroids and colony of origin. We then used GLS light‐intensity and salt‐water immersion (wet/dry) data to determine each individual's date of egg‐laying the following spring. Rhinoceros auklets were very widely distributed across the northeastern Pacific Ocean in winter. Among all individuals, the distance between winter centroids and breeding colonies ranged from 2500 km, being greater among individuals originating from colonies at higher latitudes. As predicted, migration distance and colony latitude were positively related to lay date: after accounting for colony‐level differences in phenology, individuals that migrated shorter distances tended to lay their eggs earlier, a pattern that emerged across all populations. Our study links the migration distance of rhinoceros auklets to a fitness‐related outcome, underscoring the selective pressure that migration exerts on subsequent breeding activity.

BackgroundMyxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common acquired heart disease in dogs. Mitral valvuloplasty (MVP) addresses regurgitation, but the pre- and postoperative changes in myocardial function remain uncertain.ObjectivesThis study evaluated myocardial motion before and after MVP using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2D-STE).AnimalsEight client-owned dogs undergoing MVP for MMVD.MethodsMyocardial deformation was assessed by 2D-STE before surgery and at 1- and 3-months post-surgery. Measurements included left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), global radial strain (GRS), cardiac twist, and right ventricular free wall GLS (RVFW-GLS).ResultsPostoperative decreases were observed in left ventricular internal dimensions, left atrial size, and early diastolic myocardial velocity, with an increase in peak late diastolic velocity. LV-GLS decreased at 1 month (−14.4%) and 3 months (−16.3%) compared to preoperative values (−24.4%) (p = 0.0078, p = 0.015). GCS decreased at 1 month (−12.9%) and 3 months (−14.8%) compared to preoperative values (−21.7%) (p = 0.0078). GRS decreased at 1 month (27.7%) and 3 months (32.0%) compared to preoperative values (67.7%) (p = 0.0078). No significant changes were observed in RVFW-GLS. Peak systolic twist increased at 3 months (9.1° vs. 4.9°, p = 0.039). Peak systolic apical rotation showed an upward trend at 3 months (p = 0.109). Left ventricular twist was mildly affected by LVIDd, LVIDDN, and sphericity index (R2 = 0.187, p = 0.034; R2 = 0.33, p = 0.0029; R2 = 0.22, p = 0.019).Conclusions and clinical importancePostoperative myocardial motion approached reference values, indicating significant improvement, particularly in left ventricular twisting motion. These findings highlight the positive impact of surgery on cardiac function in dogs with MMVD.

Summary: Antipsychotic drugs have been shown to have antitumor effects but have had limited potency in the clinic. Here, we unveil that pimozide inhibits lysosome hydrolytic function to suppress fatty acid and cholesterol release in glioblastoma (GBM), the most lethal brain tumor. Unexpectedly, GBM develops resistance to pimozide by boosting glutamine consumption and lipogenesis. These elevations are driven by SREBP-1, which we find upregulates the expression of ASCT2, a key glutamine transporter. Glutamine, in turn, intensifies SREBP-1 activation through the release of ammonia, creating a feedforward loop that amplifies both glutamine metabolism and lipid synthesis, leading to drug resistance. Disrupting this loop via pharmacological targeting of ASCT2 or glutaminase, in combination with pimozide, induces remarkable mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress, leading to GBM cell death in vitro and in vivo. Our findings underscore the promising therapeutic potential of effectively targeting GBM by combining glutamine metabolism inhibition with lysosome suppression.

Madrasah is a very good and strategic place to create a quality generation under the expectations of education and learning goals/, but to support this, the important role of all components and various elements is needed to work together to improve the quality of learning and Education, one of which is implementing the school literacy movement as a force to strive for change and development of competence for each student, both in terms of improving the quality of reading, understanding, knowing, broadening insight, strengthening intellect and intelligence, and enriching various scientific information. All these competencies are contained in cognitive, affective, and psychomotor aspects. This is in accordance with what is being implemented by Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Sambina'e Kota Bima in implementing the school literacy movement with several models including: getting students used to reading 15 minutes before starting lessons, grouping students to collaborate and exchanging stories from the reading results, giving assignments to read, provide motivation, discipline, provide new books, and create a civilizing ecosystem. In addition to what has been implemented by madrasas, interconnectivity of various elements is really needed, starting with the involvement of all school members, parents/guardians of students, and the community.

Abstract Background Obesity is a known risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiac disease. Hypothesis This study evaluated the effect of significant weight loss following bariatric surgery on myocardial deformation indices and right ventricular size (RV). This was a prospective cohort study. Morbid obese patients scheduled for bariatric surgery from July 2017 to February 2018 at Firoozgar Hospital were included in our study and referred for transthoracic echocardiography at Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center. Results Thirty-four patients entered the study. The absolute value of global longitudinal strain (GLS) at baseline, 3, and 6 months after surgery was 17.42 ± 2.94%, 18.24 ± 3.09%, and 19.52 ± 2.78%, respectively, with a statistically significant difference from baseline to after six months (P value

AbstractAlterations in normal metabolic processes are defining features of cancer. Glutamine, an abundant amino acid in the human blood, plays a critical role in regulating several biosynthetic and bioenergetic pathways that support tumour growth. Glutaminolysis is a metabolic pathway that converts glutamine into various metabolites involved in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and generates antioxidants that are vital for tumour cell survival. As glutaminase catalyses the initial step of this metabolic pathway, it is of great significance in cancer metabolism and tumour progression. Inhibition of glutaminase and targeting of glutaminolysis have emerged as promising strategies for cancer therapy. This review explores the role of glutaminases in cancer metabolism and discusses various glutaminase inhibitors developed as potential therapies for tumour regression.

Cardiovascular (CV) disease accounts for one third of deaths in females, with hypertension (HTN) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk factors for its development. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a strong prognostic indicator for future CV dysfunction and can be impaired in women with HTN and T2DM. This study aimed to determine if exercise impacts GLS in women with HTN or T2DM. A randomized crossover trial was conducted with 15 women (aged 64.1 ± 4.7) diagnosed with HTN (n = 12) or T2DM (n = 3). Participants completed an 8‐week exercise and 8‐week non‐exercising control period, separated by a 21.6 ± 14.2‐week washout period. Resting echocardiography and exercise testing were performed pre and post each arm to measure GLS and aerobic fitness (VO2peak). GLS (%) improved significantly following exercise (−16.8 ± 1.5 to −18.4 ± 1.8; p ≤ 0.001, d = 0.98), but not control (−17.2 ± 2.0 to −16.9 ± 1.4; p = 0.585, d = −0.14). Similarly, VO2peak (mL/kg/min) increased following exercise (18.0 ± 2.1 to 19.2 ± 2.6; p ≤ 0.001, d = 0.53), but not control (17.5 ± 2.7–17.2 ± 2.7; p = 0.269, d = −0.12). There were significant between‐group differences for GLS (p ≤ 0.001, d = 1.02) and VO2peak (p = 0.011, d = 0.63). Aerobic exercise positively impacts GLS and VO2peak in women with HTN and T2DM. GLS may inform exercise professionals regarding the early effectiveness of an aerobic exercise intervention and infer a reduction in CV disease risk. Highlights: The impact of aerobic exercise on global longitudinal strain (GLS), and other measures of cardiovascular (CV) function, was explored in women with hypertension and type 2 diabetes.Eight weeks of aerobic exercise significantly improved GLS (very large effect; d = 1.02) and aerobic capacity (moderate effect; d = 0.63) compared to control.Improvements observed in GLS and aerobic capacity were clinically meaningful. Significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure were also observed following exercise, but not control.GLS can measure the effectiveness of aerobic exercise on myocardial function in women at risk of developing CV disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: CKD and cardiovascular diseases co-exist in many patients. The disorders of heart and renal system can deteriorate each other via direct or indirect ways in numerous complex mechanisms. Our study aimed to compare various echocardiographic parameters to predict the progression of CKD. We have conducted the study utilizing both the novel and traditional imaging techniques like speckle tracking for understanding the complex pathophysiological associations between the heart and kidneys. Methods: This prospective, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted on patients of chronic kidney disease (stage 2-5) to describe echocardiographic abnormalities (anatomical and functional) and its patterns amongst them. A person was considered having CKD if his illness was of more than 3 months' duration and had abnormal USG findings and reduced creatinine clearance pointing to chronic kidney disease. GFR estimation was done using MDRD equation and classified according to the CKD classification. All patients underwent 2D echocardiography and examination was done under various standard echocardiographic views. Observations: A total of 90 patients in four groups of CKD (stages II, III, IV, V) were evaluated. Out of the 90 patients, 75 patients (83.3%) had LVH. The mean IVSd was 1.37 ± 0.14 cm. The mean LVMI was 134.38 + 24 .91 gm/m2. As the renal functions worsened, there was an increased prevalence of LVH (p=0.0008). There was a significant correlation worsening renal function and the prevalence of left ventricular systolic dysfunction (p<0.0001), left atrium enlargement (p<0.00001), and diastolic dysfunction (p<0.001). We found a strong statistically significant association between GLS and CKD patients with a (p< 0.00001). Conclusion: There was a significant correlation between LVH, dilated left atrium, abnormal GLS, TR-max velocity, diastolic dysfunction and related TDI parameters with worsening renal functions. Echocardiographic abnormalities are less severe in stage II-III CKD when compared with Stages IV and V CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Identification of significant coronary artery disease (CAD)in NSTEMI/UA/CSA patients without invasive methodsremains a clinical challenge. Severe CAD is known to cause LV dysfunction. However, the LV ejection fraction is usually normal at a relatively early stage. Therefore, establishing a more sensitive index for the detection of early-stage LV dysfunction is of utmost importance. Methods: This was a cross sectional observational study conducted on 136 patients with NSTEMI/UA/CSAto evaluate the value of global longitudinal strain (GLS) at rest to predict the presence of significant CAD and to determine the severity of CAD. The patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) to measure 2DSTE to measure GLS. Results: Overall, Left Anterior Descending artery(43.38%) was the commonest vessel involved. Study revealed that mean GLS value was significantly lower in significant CAD (>70% stenosis)i.e. -15.95+ 2.78 than those with non-significant CAD (<70% stenosis) i.e. -20 + 1.73 with p < 0.001. The sensitivity and specificity for SVD, DVD and TVD were67.53% andTVD were67.53% and 89.83%, 88.90% and 82.60%, 85.30% and 70.40% respectively. Conclusion:Global longitudinal strain (GLS) assessed by 2D speckle tracking echocardiography at rest has good sensitivity and specificity to predict the presence, extent and severity of CAD in patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims The clinical significance and feasibility of the recently described non-invasive parameters exploring ventricular–arterial coupling (VAC) remain uncertain. This study aimed to assess VAC parameters for prognostic stratification in stable patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥40% following myocardial infarction (MI). Methods and results Between 2018 and 2021, patients with LVEF ≥40% were evaluated 1 month following MI using transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and arterial tonometry at rest and after a handgrip test. VAC was studied via the ratio between arterial elastance (Ea) and end-systolic LV elastance (Ees) and between pulse wave velocity (PWV) and global longitudinal strain (GLS). Patients were followed for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE): all-cause death, acute heart failure, stroke, AMI, and urgent cardiovascular hospitalization. Among the 374 patients included, Ea/Ees and PWV/GLS were obtained at rest for 354 (95%) and 253 patients (68%), respectively. Isometric exercise was workable in 335 patients (85%). During a median follow-up of 32 months (interquartile range: 16–42), 41 (11%) MACE occurred. Patients presenting MACE were significantly older and had a higher prevalence of peripheral arterial disease, lower GLS, higher Ea, PWV, and PWV/GLS ratio. The Ea/Ees ratio and standard TTE parameters during isometric exercise were not associated with MACE. After adjustment, the PWV/GLS ratio was the only VAC parameter independently associated with outcome. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis identified a PWV/GLS ratio >0.70 (Youden's index = 0.37) as the best threshold to identify patients developing MACE: hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) = 2.2 (1.14–4.27), P = 0.02. Conclusion The PWV/GLS ratio, assessed 1 month after MI, identifies a group of patients at higher risk of MACE providing additional value on top of conventional non-invasive parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Covid-19 pandemic will have an impact on the funding strategies of companies in the health sector, as fluctuations in income will play a significant role in determining their ability to finance various activities. This phenomenon will manifest itself in the context of capital structure policy determinations. Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the capital structure behavior of healthcare companies in Indonesia. Design/methodology/approach: Utilizing the data from fourteen companies that were listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period of 2017-2022, a panel data regression based on the Generalized Least Squares (GLS) approach was used to analyze the impact of COVID-19 and other factors on the capital structure decision. Furthermore, the partial adjustment model with the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimator was employed to measure the speed of adjustment toward target leverage. Findings/Result: We found COVID-19 had a significant impact on capital structure. Other factors that influenced the capital structure were the return on equity, current ratio, and growth. Finally, the healthcare companies in Indonesia readjusted their capital structure toward target leverage at a rapid rate. Managers of companies in the health sector can arrange considerations according to the order of funding sources, using internal funding sources first in the form of retained earnings, then debt, and if necessary, issuing equity. Conclusion: During a crisis, the effects experienced by different sectors exhibit variations. Consequently, conducting sector analysis research during a crisis becomes crucial in order to ascertain the precise impact of specific crises on particular sectors. Originality/value (State of the art): This research contributes to the existing literature on capital structure decision and speed of adjustment by adding the COVID-19 crisis dimension, especially when the industry play the important rule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obesity is a known risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiac disease. Hypothesis: This study evaluated the effect of significant weight loss following bariatric surgery on myocardial deformation indices and right ventricular size (RV). This was a prospective cohort study. Morbid obese patients scheduled for bariatric surgery from July 2017 to February 2018 at Firoozgar Hospital were included in our study and referred for transthoracic echocardiography at Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center. Results: Thirty-four patients entered the study. The absolute value of global longitudinal strain (GLS) at baseline, 3, and 6 months after surgery was 17.42 ± 2.94%, 18.24 ± 3.09%, and 19.52 ± 2.78%, respectively, with a statistically significant difference from baseline to after six months (P value < 0.001). The absolute value of global circumferential strain (GCS) at baseline, 3, and 6 months after surgery was 20.14 ± 4.22%, 23.32 ± 4.66%, and 24.53 ± 4.52%, respectively, with statistically significant changes (P value < 0.001) from baseline to three months and from baseline to six months and no significant difference from three months to six months. A significant decrease was reported in mechanical dispersion of circumferential strain (38.05 ± 23.81–23.37 ± 20.86 ms, P value = 0.006) 6 months after surgery. Right ventricular size three- and six-month post-surgery showed a significant decrease relative to baseline echocardiography. Conclusions: Bariatric surgery could enhance cardiac function, as proven by 2D speckle echocardiography. Changes in RV size may be related to weight loss and should be considered when assessing patients who have undergone bariatric surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myopericarditis is inflammatory disease caused by various, often unidentified, factors. Although considered the gold standard for diagnosis of myocarditis, endomyocardial biopsy in clinical pactice is often substituted with clinical, biochemical and imaging parameters. Echocardiography with speckle tracking strain analysis is a valuable tool for diagnosis of myocarditis, estimation of regional and global systolic function showing good correlation with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI). We present the case of a 19-year-old male with chest pain, elevated troponin and ST segment elevation who underwent urgent coronary angiography. Normal angiogram steered diagnosis toward myopericarditis, considering information about recent enterocolitis and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. Transthoracal echocardiography with speckle tracking analysis showed longitudinal strain reduction in several segments of the left ventricle. Small pericardial effusion alongside those segments was also found supporting our diagnosis. After 3 months of treatment with antiinflammatory drugs, ACE inhibitor and beta blocker, the patient recovered and a repeated echo showed complete recovery of systolic function without pericardial effusion. We conclude that echocardiography, including global and regional longitudinal strain analysis, is a valuable diagnostic tool in patients with myopericarditis, complementary with not widely available cMRI. It can detect subtle systolic dysfunction not visible with conventional echocardiography, thus having implications on therapy and prognosis.

Abstract Background Echocardiographic estimation of left ventricular filling pressure in heart transplant (HTx) recipients is challenging. The ability of echocardiography to detect elevated left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) in HTx patients was assessed in this study. Results This descriptive cross-sectional study included 39 HTx recipients who were candidates for endomyocardial biopsy as a part of their routine post-transplantation surveillance. Doppler transthoracic echocardiography was done before the procedure, and left heart catheterization was done during the endomyocardial biopsy. Thirty-nine patients (15 female, 24 male), with a mean age of 39.6 years (range 13–70), were enrolled. A strong relation was observed between lateral E/e′ and LVEDP (R = 0.64, P value

Purpose: Up to 50% of patients do not achieve significant left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) recovery after primary percutaneous intervention (PPCI) for STEMI. We aimed to identify the echocardiographic predictors for LVEF recovery and assess the value of early follow‐up echocardiography (Echo) in risk assessment of post‐myocardial infarction (MI) patients. Methods: One hundred one STEMI patients undergoing PPCI were enrolled provided EF below 50%. Baseline echocardiography assessed LVEF, volumes, wall motion score index (WMSI), global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), and E/e'. Follow‐up echocardiography after 6 weeks reassessed left ventricular volumes, LVEF and GLS.GCS was not assessed at follow up. Patients were classified into recovery and non‐recovery groups. Predictors of LVEF recovery and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) at 6 months were analysed. Results: The mean change of EF was 8.04 ± 3.32% in group I versus ‐.39 ± 5.09 % in group II (p <.001). Recovered patients had better baseline GLS, baseline GCS, E/e', and follow‐up GLS. Multivariate regression analysis revealed E/e', GCS, and follow‐up GLS after 6 weeks to be strong independent predictors for LVEF recovery. Composite MACE was considerably higher in group II (32.7% vs. 4.1%, p <.001) mainly driven by higher heart failure hospitalisation Multivariate regression analysis revealed baseline GLS, E/e', and ejection fraction (EF) percentage recovery as strong independent predictors for MACE. Conclusions: Multiparametric echocardiographic approach incorporating LVEF, strain parameters, and diastolic function could allow early optimal risk stratification after STEMI treated with PPCI. Follow‐up GLS and LVEF percentage change are the strongest predictors for early LV recovery and long term clinical outcome, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article studies estimation of linear panel regression models with heterogeneous coefficients using a class of weighted least squares estimators, when both the regressors and the error possibly contain a common latent factor structure. Our theory is robust to the specification of such a factor structure because it does not require any information on the number of factors or estimation of the factor structure itself. Moreover, our theory is efficient, in certain circumstances, because it nests the GLS principle. We first show how our unfeasible weighted-estimator provides a bias-adjusted estimator with the conventional limiting distribution, for situations in which the OLS is affected by a first-order bias. The technical challenge resolved in the article consists of showing how these properties are preserved for the feasible weighted estimator in a double-asymptotics setting. Our theory is illustrated by extensive Monte Carlo experiments and an empirical application that investigates the link between capital accumulation and economic growth in an international setting. for this article are available online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myocardial deformation by echocardiographic strain imaging is a key measurement in cardiology, providing valuable diagnostic and prognostic information. Reference ranges for strain should be established from large healthy populations with minimal methodologic biases and variability. The aim of this study was to establish echocardiographic reference ranges, including lower normal limits of global strains for all 4 cardiac chambers, by guideline-directed dedicated views from a large healthy population and to evaluate the influence of subject-specific characteristics on strain. In total, 1,329 healthy participants from HUNT4Echo, the echocardiographic substudy of the 4th wave of the Trøndelag Health Study, were included. Echocardiographic recordings specific for each chamber were optimized according to current recommendations. Two experienced sonographers recorded all echocardiograms using GE HealthCare Vivid E95 scanners. Analyses were performed by experts using GE HealthCare EchoPAC. The reference ranges for left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain and right ventricular free-wall strain were −24% to −16% and −35% to −17%, respectively. Correspondingly, left atrial (LA) and right atrial (RA) reservoir strains were 17% to 49% and 17% to 59%. All strains showed lower absolute values with higher age, except for LA and RA contractile strains, which were higher. The feasibility for strain was overall good (LV 96%, right ventricular 83%, LA 94%, and RA 87%). All chamber-specific strains were associated with age, and LV strain was associated with sex. Reference ranges of strain for all cardiac chambers were established based on guideline-directed chamber-specific recordings. Age and sex were the most important factors influencing reference ranges and should be considered when using strain echocardiography. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dysregulated pre-mRNA splicing and metabolism are two hallmarks of MYC-driven cancers. Pharmacological inhibition of both processes has been extensively investigated as potential therapeutic avenues in preclinical and clinical studies. However, how pre-mRNA splicing and metabolism are orchestrated in response to oncogenic stress and therapies is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that jumonji domain containing 6, arginine demethylase, and lysine hydroxylase, JMJD6, acts as a hub connecting splicing and metabolism in MYC-driven human neuroblastoma. JMJD6 cooperates with MYC in cellular transformation of murine neural crest cells by physically interacting with RNA binding proteins involved in pre-mRNA splicing and protein homeostasis. Notably, JMJD6 controls the alternative splicing of two isoforms of glutaminase (GLS), namely kidney-type glutaminase (KGA) and glutaminase C (GAC), which are rate-limiting enzymes of glutaminolysis in the central carbon metabolism in neuroblastoma. Further, we show that JMJD6 is correlated with the anti-cancer activity of indisulam, a ‘molecular glue’ that degrades splicing factor RBM39, which complexes with JMJD6. The indisulam-mediated cancer cell killing is at least partly dependent on the glutamine-related metabolic pathway mediated by JMJD6. Our findings reveal a cancer-promoting metabolic program is associated with alternative pre-mRNA splicing through JMJD6, providing a rationale to target JMJD6 as a therapeutic avenue for treating MYC-driven cancers.

The environment for enterprise external financing has deteriorated recently, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, which has severely restricted enterprise external financing options. Therefore, it is essential to implement efficient financial methods to encourage business growth. This paper intends to investigate the moderating effect of board financial expertise on the relationship between flexibility and investment efficiency of listed companies in Egypt. This study includes moderator and control variables to produce an empirical model and findings that are more reliable based on 592 sample observations collected as annual secondary data from 2014 to 2021. Generalized least squares, logistic regression, and panel-corrected standard error were employed in the analysis. Results indicate that a higher board financial expert’s ratio decreases investment efficiency and has a moderating effect on financial flexibility and investment efficiency. High proportions of flexibility affect investment efficiency. Robustness checks confirm the negative effect of board financial expertise on the relationship between flexibility and investment efficiency. In unpredictable times, financial flexibility can help firms meet capital needs and boost the effectiveness of their investment decisions. Therefore, to increase investment efficiency and support firm growth, firms should maintain their financial flexibility while tightening internal controls.

Abstract This research assesses the effect of capital structure on the sustainability of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in Bamenda, Cameroon. We use panel data obtained from audited annual financial statements of fifteen (15) MFIs, comprising both member- and shareholder-owned MFIs in Bamenda, Cameroon from 2014 to 2020, and an ex-post facto causal research design. Debt, equity, grants, and retained earnings are used to capture capital structure, while Operational Self-Sufficiency is used as a proxy for sustainability. The Generalised Least Squares and the quantile-on-quantile techniques are used for data analysis. Our findings indicate a statistically significant negative relationship between debt, grants and financial sustainability of MFIs, while a statistically significant positive relationship is found between retained earnings and financial sustainability of MFIs. A positive, though statistically insignificant relationship is found between equity or share capital and MFI financial sustainability. The results are robust upon consideration of different quantiles. Based on the findings, MFIs in Cameroon should rely more on retained earnings and equity to be more financially sustainable. The findings additionally provide evidence relating to the shortcoming of grants in the financing of development initiatives.

Abstract The analysis of public debt determinants is well documented in the literature. However, previous studies give more focus to the economic determinants neglecting the role played by socio‐political factors. The purpose of this study is to fill that gap observed in the literature by investigating the impact of socio‐political factors on CEMAC countries' public debt accumulation in a bivariate relationship. The paper employs the OLS and GLS as baseline models using panel data covering the period from 1980 to 2021. The study uses as alternative techniques the FE, FE‐IV, and the GMM for robustness checks. The empirical findings highlight the system (both presidential and legislative), corruption, Electoral openness and Competitiveness for legislative election (Liec), and fraud as the main driving factors of public debt in CEMAC countries. This paper suggests further studies to give a particular interest to socio‐political factors while investigating the determinants of public debt in developing countries.

Abstract Background Although global longitudinal strain (GLS) is proven to be reduced and associated with adverse outcomes in septic patients, it has not been elucidated whether or not layer-specific strains are reduced. We aimed to explore the layer-specific strains of left ventricular (LV) for assessing myocardial dysfunction in septic patients. Methods A prospective observational study of patients with sepsis was conducted in a tertiary hospital in China. Routine two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography was performed within 24 h of enrollment. Demographic data, laboratory values, and clinical outcomes were collected. Results We recruited 79 septic patients finally. The mean age of septic patients was 59.4 years old and 45 (57.0%) were male. The median Acute Physiology Age and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II) score, and mean sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score of all patients were 19.0 and 7.7, respectively. According to the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) value of 50%, the patients were categorized into two groups: SICM (sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy, LVEF

Cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD) is one of the side effects that nearly one tenth of cancer patients experience. LVEF and GLS have been suggested as markers for CTRCD prediction. The timing of when strain imaging should be used to evaluate CTRCD following chemotherapy is still under investigation, but recent studies also suggest assessing cardiac biomarkers like troponin for the early detection of CTRCD. objective: The goal of this study was to find out how well echocardiography can detect CTRCD, how it relates to troponin I, and how well strain imaging can predict CTRCD one week after chemotherapy treatment. Methodology: 100 cancer patients with and without anthracycline therapy were selected for a prospective observational study from March 2019 to April 2020. Echocardiographic parameters such as LV function, GLS, GCS, and blood troponin I were evaluated prior to and one week after the start of the chemotherapeutic treatment, respectively. We used a reference range below -18 for GLS and -22 for GCS in our study to indicate significantly decreased strain. Results: Twenty-two of the 100 patients developed CTRCD. Patients who developed CTRCD had lower GLS, lower LVEF, and significantly higher troponin I levels following chemotherapeutic treatment than patients who did not develop CTRCD. GLS was strongly associated with EF in CTRCD patients (2=35.06, p 0.001) Additionally, decreased EF and GLS were significantly correlated with elevated troponin (2=31.31, p 0.001) and 78.95, respectively. Conclusion: CTRCD was linked to an increase in troponin I in a mixed cancer population. In order to predict CTRCD, the study proposes performing early strain imaging within a week of chemotherapeutic treatment. Increased troponin I was found to be significantly correlated with a decrease in strain (GLS). Early detection leads to the diagnosis of subclinical cardiac dysfunction, which improves the risk stratification of patients for chemotherapy, and treatment improves quality of life. To support the findings of this study, larger prospective studies focusing on a single type of cancer population are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) has an important role in the diagnosis of cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD). Little is known about the role of atrial function in diagnosing CTRCD. The aim of our study was to assess the impact of anti-cancer drugs on atrial function measured by speckle-tracking echocardiography in breast cancer women. A prospective multicenter study was conducted enrolling 169 breast cancer women treated with anthracyclines. A cardiological evaluation including an electrocardiogram and echocardiogram with an analysis of GLS, left atrial (LA) strain, and LA stiffness (LASi) was performed at baseline (T0), 3 (T1), and 6 months (T2) after starting chemotherapy. The patients were divided into two groups: patients with asymptomatic mild cardiotoxicity at T1 (with a relative reduction in GLS > 15%; Group 1) and those without (Group 2). We did not find a significant change in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at T1 and T2; we found a significant change in GLS (p-value < 0.0001) in the peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) and in LASi (p-value < 0.0001). Impairment of atrial function was greater in Group 1 compared to Group 2. A PALS variation > 20.8% identified patients who were most likely to develop asymptomatic mild cardiotoxicity [AUC 0.62; CI (0.51–0.73) p = 0.06, sensitivity 45%, specificity 69.5%]. Conclusions: PALS and LASi significantly change during chemotherapy in association with GLS. Atrial strain is an additional parameter that could be measured together with GLS to detect cardiotoxicity early. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that Local Projections (LP) residuals are autocorrelated. Conventional wisdom says that LP have to be estimated by OLS and that GLS is not possible because the autocorrelation process is unknown and/or because the GLS estimator would be inconsistent. I show that the autocorrelation process of LP can be written as a Vector Moving Average (VMA) process of the Wold errors and impulse responses and that autocorrelation can be corrected for using a consistent GLS estimator. Monte Carlo simulations show that estimating LP with GLS can lead to more efficient estimates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research assesses the effect of capital structure on the sustainability of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in Bamenda, Cameroon. We use panel data obtained from audited annual financial statements of fifteen (15) MFIs, comprising both member- and shareholder-owned MFIs in Bamenda, Cameroon from 2014 to 2020, and an ex-post facto causal research design. Debt, equity, grants, and retained earnings are used to capture capital structure, while Operational Self-Sufficiency is used as a proxy for sustainability. The Generalised Least Squares and the quantile-on-quantile techniques are used for data analysis. Our findings indicate a statistically significant negative relationship between debt, grants and financial sustainability of MFIs, while a statistically significant positive relationship is found between retained earnings and financial sustainability of MFIs. A positive, though statistically insignificant relationship is found between equity or share capital and MFI financial sustainability. The results are robust upon consideration of different quantiles. Based on the findings, MFIs in Cameroon should rely more on retained earnings and equity to be more financially sustainable. The findings additionally provide evidence relating to the shortcoming of grants in the financing of development initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factor analysis is a multivariate statistical analysis technique that has become very popular in recent years. In the factor analysis model, the error covariance matrix is assumed to be the multivariate normal distribution, and outliers are likely to be accounted for. Various estimation methods were compared with Monte Carlo simulation for the factor analysis model. The performances of the estimation methods were evaluated based on the ratio of the total variance explained and the criterion fit values. Considering the MLE, PCA, WLS, and GLS methods for classical factor analysis and the MCD, M, and S methods for robust factor analysis, the ratio of total variance explained, and fit values decreased as the sample size increased. When the number of variables increases, the ratio of total variance explained, and fit values increase at different sample sizes. It can be said that the WLS and GLS methods are better than others for classical factor analysis and the MCD and M methods are better than others for robust factor analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analysis of public debt determinants is well documented in the literature. However, previous studies give more focus to the economic determinants neglecting the role played by socio‐political factors. The purpose of this study is to fill that gap observed in the literature by investigating the impact of socio‐political factors on CEMAC countries' public debt accumulation in a bivariate relationship. The paper employs the OLS and GLS as baseline models using panel data covering the period from 1980 to 2021. The study uses as alternative techniques the FE, FE‐IV, and the GMM for robustness checks. The empirical findings highlight the system (both presidential and legislative), corruption, Electoral openness and Competitiveness for legislative election (Liec), and fraud as the main driving factors of public debt in CEMAC countries. This paper suggests further studies to give a particular interest to socio‐political factors while investigating the determinants of public debt in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In patients with stable angina pectoris [SAP], conventional echocardiography at rest gives minimal information regarding coronary artery disease [CAD]. Even in patients with severe CAD, left ventricle [LV] wall motion at rest may be normal. As a result, it would be beneficial if another resting parameter could aid to distinguish patients with severe CAD from those with milder or no CAD. 2D strain echocardiography can anticipate the degree of coronary lesions.Aim of the work: The goal of this study was to study the relationship between LV systolic deformation and the severity of CAD in individuals with SAP using 2D STE.Patients and Methods: This study included [120] SAP patients, who were divided into three groups according to coronary angiography: Group [A] consists of [12] patients whose coronary angiography is normal Group [B]: [40] patients with low SS < 22. Group [C]: [48] patients with SS ≥ 22. All patients were undergoing Echocardiography [conventional and STE for assessment of global and circumferential strain.Results: There is a statistically significant correlation between the number of vessels affected and GLS and GCS. There is a significant correlation between SS and GLS [P=0.001] which is weak significant in group B and lost in group C. GLS can predict high SS with a cut-off value of ≤-15, with a sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 87.5%, also GCS can predict high SS with a cut-off value ≤-18, with a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 83.3%.Conclusion: 2D STE using GLS can diagnose ischemia with a cut-off value of ≤-19 and predict lesion severity with a cut-off value of ≤-15; also, GCS can diagnose ischemia with a cut-off value ≤ -23 and predict lesion severity with cut-off value ≤-18.

Abstract Background Monitoring polar bears is logistically challenging and expensive. Traditionally, reproductive history has been assessed using permanent marks from physically captured individuals, which requires assumptions about reproductive history based on their status at the time of capture. This is often supplemented with economically costly satellite telemetry (ST) collars restricted to adult females, which yield data on space use and reproductive history. Methods This study assesses the potential of adapting light-level geolocation (Global location sensing or GLS) tags, developed for birds and fish, to estimate life history metrics for polar bears. Traditionally, GLS uses light intensity and time of day to estimate approximate twice-daily locations. This information, combined with temperature data, can be used to assess approximate locations of maternity denning events, denning timing, general space use, and population connectivity. Results Adult females (n = 54) were equipped, some several times, with a total of 103 GLS in Svalbard and Greenland from 2012 to 2021. Of these, 44 were also equipped with 80 ST collars during this period. This yielded GLS and ST data records for each individual up to 9.4 years (mean (Ø) 4.0 years) and 5.1 years (Ø 1.5 years), respectively. Combined with capture information, the GLS and ST collars were used to score reproductive history (determined presence or absence of maternity denning events) for 72–54% of bear winters during this period, respectively. Using GLS yielded on average 4.3 years of unbroken reproductive history records (up to 8 years for some individuals) including denning phenology and age at first reproduction. Additionally, geographic locations could be estimated during spring and autumn (when twilight was present) with an average daily accuracy of 93 km (4–1042 km) and 58 km (5–550 km) when aggregating by season. Conclusions This study establishes GLS as a powerful, low-cost method for polar bear population monitoring that can provide data on reproductive history, including age at first reproduction, and maternity denning location and phenology in programs with ongoing recapture. GLS can also be used to monitor males and immatures that cannot wear ST collars.

Background: Although global longitudinal strain (GLS) is proven to be reduced and associated with adverse outcomes in septic patients, it has not been elucidated whether or not layer-specific strains are reduced. We aimed to explore the layer-specific strains of left ventricular (LV) for assessing myocardial dysfunction in septic patients. Methods: A prospective observational study of patients with sepsis was conducted in a tertiary hospital in China. Routine two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography was performed within 24 h of enrollment. Demographic data, laboratory values, and clinical outcomes were collected. Results: We recruited 79 septic patients finally. The mean age of septic patients was 59.4 years old and 45 (57.0%) were male. The median Acute Physiology Age and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II) score, and mean sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score of all patients were 19.0 and 7.7, respectively. According to the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) value of 50%, the patients were categorized into two groups: SICM (sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy, LVEF < 50%, n = 22) and non-SICM group (LVEF ≥ 50%, n = 57). The median LVEF of SICM and non-SICM patients were 41.9% and 58.7%, and SICM patients had less negative layer-specific strain and global strain than that of non-SICM patients. The echocardiographic comparison of non-SICM and healthy controls was conducted to explore the myocardial injuries of non-SICM patients and the non-SICM had worse LS-epi than that of controls (-18.5% vs. -21.4%, p = 0.024). Conclusion: There were 72.2% (57) septic patients presented with non-SICM (LVEF ≥ 50%), and the strain value of epicardium of them was less negative than healthy controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]