Yoxas/statistical_literacy huggingface dataset:
Multiple myeloma (MM) therapeutics have evolved tremendously in recent years, with significant improvement in patient outcomes. As newer treatment options are developed, stem cell transplant (SCT) remains an important modality that provides excellent disease control and delays the progression of disease. Over the years, SCT use has increased overall in the U.S., but two distinct gaps remain, including suboptimal use overall and racial-ethnic disparities. We evaluated the National Cancer Database (NCDB) to study what sociodemographic factors might play a role within a given racial-ethnic group leading to disparate SCT utilization, such that targeted approaches can be developed to optimize SCT use for all. In nearly 112,000 cases belonging to mutually exclusive categories of non-Hispanic Whites (NHW), non-Hispanic Blacks (NHB), Hispanics, non-Hispanic Asians (NHA), and others, we found certain factors including age, comorbidity index, payor type, facility type (academic vs. community) and facility volume to be uniformly associated with SCT use for all the racial-ethnic groups, while gender was not significant for any of the groups. There were several other factors that had a differential impact on SCT utilization among the various race-ethnicity groups studied, including year of diagnosis (significant for NHW, NHB, and Hispanics), income level (significant for NHW and Hispanics), literacy level (significant for NHW and NHB), and geographic location of the treatment facility (significant for NHW and NHA). The suboptimal SCT utilization overall in the U.S. suggests that there may be room for improvement for all, even including the majority NHW, while we continue to work on factors that lead to disparities for the traditionally underserved populations. This study helps identify sociodemographic factors that may play a role specifically in each group and paves the way to devise targeted solutions such that resource utilization and impact can be maximized.
Multiple reports highlight the increasingly quantitative nature of biological research and the need to innovate means to ensure that students acquire quantitative skills. We present a tool to support such innovation. The Biological Science Quantitative Reasoning Exam (BioSQuaRE) is an assessment instrument designed to measure the quantitative skills of undergraduate students within a biological context. The instrument was developed by an interdisciplinary team of educators and aligns with skills included in national reports such as BIO2010, Scientific Foundations for Future Physicians, and Vision and Change Undergraduate biology educators also confirmed the importance of items included in the instrument. The current version of the BioSQuaRE was developed through an iterative process using data from students at 12 postsecondary institutions. A psychometric analysis of these data provides multiple lines of evidence for the validity of inferences made using the instrument. Our results suggest that the BioSQuaRE will prove useful to faculty and departments interested in helping students acquire the quantitative competencies they need to successfully pursue biology, and useful to biology students by communicating the importance of quantitative skills. We invite educators to use the BioSQuaRE at their own institutions.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system which leads to demyelination and neurodegeneration. The T and B cells, the body's immune cells, start attacking the brain and spinal cord, leading to a variety of symptoms. Alemtuzumab is a recently approved disease-modifying therapy that has been shown to have a very high impact on MS. However, it has many potentially life-threatening side effects which patients are often not aware of. For treatments as effective and risky as Alemtuzumab, patients who are considering it must be well-informed on the process and the potential side effects. Patient education is vital to equip patients with knowledge on their disease and treatment, and has shown to be successful in improving the management of chronic diseases and increasing medication adherence. Unfortunately, the language used is often too complex and at a higher reading level than average patients can comprehend, and available resources such as pamphlets and websites are often disorganized. This research proposes a radically different approach to patient education, using less formal channels such as a mobile application to improve health literacy, using LEMTRADA® (Alemtuzumab) as an example. MS patients were involved in a co-design process to produce a series of user-friendly, intuitive and interactive graphical interfaces which propose plain language, illustrations, animations, audio and Augmented Reality components that aim to enhance patients' knowledge retention and recall. Finally, nine MS patients along with a senior MS nurse tested the mobile application and answered a usability questionnaire that aimed to compare the delivery of information with typical websites and pamphlets. Results suggested this approach to be highly user-friendly and engaging, improving patients' understanding of medical information considerably. This research illustrates more engaging channels to communicate with MS patients in order to enhance health literacy.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. 'Omics' technologies (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics) and associated drug information have begun reshaping our understanding of multiple sclerosis. However, these data are scattered across numerous references, making them challenging to fully utilize. We manually mined and compiled these data within the Multiple Sclerosis Gene Database (MSGD) database, intending to continue updating it in the future. We screened 5485 publications and constructed the current version of MSGD. MSGD comprises 6255 entries, including 3274 variant entries, 1175 RNA entries, 418 protein entries, 313 knockout entries, 612 drug entries and 463 high-throughput entries. Each entry contains detailed information, such as species, disease type, detailed gene descriptions (such as official gene symbols), and original references. MSGD is freely accessible and provides a user-friendly web interface. Users can easily search for genes of interest, view their expression patterns and detailed information, manage gene sets and submit new MS-gene associations through the platform. The primary principle behind MSGD's design is to provide an exploratory platform, aiming to minimize filtration and interpretation barriers while ensuring highly accessible presentation of data. This initiative is expected to significantly assist researchers in deciphering gene mechanisms and improving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of MS. Database URL: http://bio-bigdata.hrbmu.edu.cn/MSGD.
Multiple studies from countries with relatively lower PM 2.5 level demonstrated that acute and chronic exposure even at lower than recommended level, e.g., 9 μg/m 3 in the US increased the risk of cardiovascular (CV) events. However, limited studies using individual level data exist from countries with a wider range of PM levels to illustrate shape of the exposure-response curve throughout the range including > 20 μg/m 3 PM 2·5 concentrations. Taiwan with its policies reduced PM 2.5 over time provide opportunities to illustrate the dose response curves and how reductions of PM 2.5 over time correlated with CV events incidence in a nationwide sample. Using data from the 2009-2019 Taiwan National Health Insurance Database linked to nationwide PM2.5 data. We examined the shape and magnitude of the exposure-response curve between seasonal average PM 2·5 level and CV events-related hospitalizations among older adults at high-risk for CV events. We used history-adjusted marginal structural models including potential confounding by individual demographic factors, baseline comorbidities, and health service measures. To quantify the risk below and above 20 μg/m 3 we conducted stratified Cox regression. We also plotted PM 2.5 and CV events from 2009-2019 as well as average temperature as a comparison. Using the PM 2.5 concentration <15 μg/m 3 (Taiwan regulatory standard) as a reference, the seasonal average PM 2.5 concentration (15-23.5μg/m 3 and > 23.5 μg/m 3 ) were associated with hazard ration of 1.13 (95%CI 1.09-1.18) and 1.19 (95%CI 1.14-1.24), 1.07 (95%CI 1.03-1.11) and 1.14 (95%CI 1.10-1.18), 1.22 (95%CI 1.08-1.38) and 1.31 (95%CI 1.16-1.48), 1.04 (95%CI 0.98-1.10) and 1.10 (95%CI 1.04-1.16) respectively for HF, IS/TIA,PE/DVT and MI/ACS. A nonlinear relationship between PM 2·5 and CV events outcomes was observed at PM 2·5 levels above 20 μg/m 3 . A nonlinear exposure-response relationship between PM2·5 concentration and the incidence of cardiovascular events exists when PM2.5 is higher than the levels recommended by WHO Air Quality Guidelines. Further lowering PM2·5 levels beyond current regulatory standards may effectively reduce the incidence of cardiovascular events, particularly HF and DVT, and can lead to tangible health benefits in high-risk elderly population.
Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) have been recognized as reliable assessment tools, and incorporating clinical scenarios in MCQ stems has enhanced their effectiveness in evaluating knowledge and understanding. Item analysis is used to assess the reliability and consistency of MCQs, indicating their suitability as an assessment tool. This study aims to ensure the competence of graduates in serving the community and establish an examination bank for the surgery course. This study aims to assess the quality and acceptability of MCQs in the surgery course at the University of Bisha College of Medicine (UBCOM). A psychometric study evaluated the quality of MCQs used in surgery examinations from 2019 to 2023 at UBCOM in Saudi Arabia. The MCQs/items were analyzed and categorized for their difficulty index (DIF), discrimination index (DI), and distracter efficiency (DE) Fifth-year MBBS students undergo a rotation in the department and are assessed at the end of 12 weeks. The assessment includes 60 MCQs/items and written items. Data was collected and analyzed using SPSS version 24. A total of 189 students were examined across five test sessions, with 300 MCQ items. Student scores ranged from 28.33% to 90.0%, with an average score of 64.6%±4.35. The 300 MCQ items had a total of 900 distractors. The DIF was 75.3% for the items, and 63.3% of the items showed good discrimination. No items had negative points in terms of biserial correlation. The mean number of functional distractors per test item was 2.19±1.007, with 34% of the items having three functional distractors. The psychometric indices used to evaluate the MCQs in this study were encouraging, with acceptable DIF, distractor efficiencies, and item reliability. Providing robust faculty training and capacity-building is recommended to enhance item development skills.
Multistate models have been used for decades to analyze the economics of expensive and long-lasting treatments. More recently they also served to address questions in clinical drug development. It seems timely to introduce the broader pharmacometrics community to the technical aspects and the problem-solving capabilities of these models. A minimal model is introduced that can answer questions of interest to drug developers, regulatory agencies, and patients (with their carers and payers). A clinical study is simulated where 1000 patients are randomly allocated (1:1) to placebo and active treatment. After a recruitment phase, deaths are counted, and an administrative data cutoff occurs 858 days after the first patient is randomized. The minimal model has one initial state, two transient states, and two absorbing states. Fully parameterized semi-Markov processes govern the unidirectional transitions between states. Simulations explore the influence of parameter uncertainty and sample size on the validity of statistical inferences. The questions of interest to stakeholders are addressed predominantly with graphic displays. All programming codes are made available. Both drug developers and regulators are invited to re-evaluate the methods currently in use to assess the benefits and risks of new treatments.
Multivariable regression is a fundamental tool that drives observational research in orthopaedic surgery. However, regression analyses are not always implemented correctly. This study presents a basic overview of regression analyses and reviews frequent points of confusion. Topics include linear, logistic, and time-to-event regressions, causal inference, confounders, overfitting, missing data, multicollinearity, interactions, and key differences between multivariable versus multivariate regression. The goal is to provide clarity regarding the use and interpretation of multivariable analyses for those attempting to increase their statistical literacy in orthopaedic research.
Mumps is a contagious viral disease occurring mainly in children, the source of infection being the sick/infected person. Since 2003, vaccination against mumps has been mandatory in Poland, performed according to a two-dose schedule. As part of the Public Health Immunization Program (PSO), the MMR combination vaccine (against measles, mumps and rubella) is used for the entire population of children. The aim of this study was to evaluate epidemiological indicators of mumps in Poland in 2021 compared to previous years, taking into account the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis of the epidemiological situation of mumps in Poland in 2021 was based on the interpretation of data from the bulletin , "Infectious diseases and poisonings in Poland in 2021" and , "Immunization in Poland in 2021". 484 cases of mumps were registered in Poland in 2021. The total incidence was 1.3 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than in 2020. The highest incidence of 1.8 per 100,000 residents was registered in Pomorskie Province, and the lowest incidence of 0.7 in Lower Silesia Province. The highest incidence (6.4/100 thousand) was recorded in children aged 0-4 and 5-9. The incidence rate for men (1.4/100,000) was higher than for women (1.1). In 2021, there were 9 patients hospitalized due to mumps, this was more than in 2020. The decrease in the number of cases of mumps in 2021 remained related to the ongoing pandemic - the restrictions introduced during the pandemic period led to a decrease in the number of cases not only of COVID-19, but also of other diseases spread by the droplet route, including mumps. The number of registered cases based on the reports of diagnosing physicians may be underestimating the actual number of cases due to the continued difficult access of patients to primary care physicians.
Musculoskeletal chronic pain is a leading cause of global disability and laboral incapacity. However, there is a lack of population-based studies that investigate the relationship between chronic pain and mental disorders with a control group, particularly among low- and middle-income countries. Chronic pain is a serious public health problem in terms of human suffering, and in terms of socioeconomic implications. Frequent association with different mental disorders increases disability, decreases quality of life, and makes diagnosis and treatment challenging. The present study aimed to evaluate the presence of mental disorders in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain and compare with a control group without pain. We selected 100 patients in a regular follow-up at the Musculoskeletal Pain Outpatient Clinic of the University Hospital and compared them with 100 painless individuals from the control group from June 2016 to June 2018. The instruments used were the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI-PLUS) and a structured questionnaire to collect sociodemographic data. Statistical analysis used t-test, chi-square, Fisher's exact test, Mann-Whitney, Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, and multiple logistic regression. In the sample evaluated, the majority of patients were women (83%), of brown color (54%), with lower-level education (51%), lower salary range (73%) and high absenteeism rate at work (60,7%). Patients with chronic pain had more psychiatric disorders (88% vs. 48% in the control group; p < 0.001). The most frequent diagnoses were anxiety disorders with panic attacks (44%), generalized anxiety (36%), mixed anxiety and depression disorder (33%), social phobia (30%), agoraphobia (29%), suicide risk (28%), and major depression (27%). Positive correlations of mental disorders and chronic musculoskeletal pain have been documented. This suggests that psychiatric components must be taken into account in the management of chronic pain syndromes. The use of Mini Plus as a diagnostic tool for psychiatric disorders can contribute to optimizing the diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic pain and encourage the creation of policies with strategies and criteria for quick access to Multi-professional Services.
Musculoskeletal conditions constitute a remarkable portion of disability cases in the military. This study evaluated the distribution and types of musculoskeletal problems and estimated the direct and indirect costs due to these complaints in an Iranian military hospital. All medical records of patients with musculoskeletal complaints that were referred to the medical committee of a military hospital, including rheumatology, orthopedics, and neuro-surgical specialists, from 2014 to 2016, were reviewed. Details of each complaint and the final opinion of the medical committees were recorded. The cost of each diagnostic step was calculated based on the recorded data. The treatment costs were estimated for each complaint by calculating the average cost of treatment plans suggested by two specialists, a physical medicine and a rheumatologist. The estimated cost for each part is calculated based on the army insurance low. Indirect costs due to absences, inability to work, and disability were assessed and added to the above-mentioned direct costs. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21. 2,116 medical records of the committee were reviewed. 1252 (59.16%) cases were soldiers (who had to spend two years of mandatory duty in the army), and 864 (40.83%) cases were non-soldiers. The three most common complaints were fractures (301 cases, 14.22%), low back pain due to lumbar disc bulges and herniations (303 cases, 14.31%), and genu varus/genu valgus (257 cases, 12.14%). The most affected sites were the lower limbs and vertebral column. According to an official document in these subjects' records, 4120 person-days absent from work were estimated annually, and nearly $1,172,149 of annual economic impact was calculated. Musculoskeletal problems are common in the army, and establishing preventive strategies for these conditions is essential. The conservative and medical approach and the proper education for correct movement and the situation should be mentioned for the reduction of disability and its economic burden on the army's staff.
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are affecting up to 95% of teachers and are considered a primary occupational health hazard leading to absenteeism, early retirement, and lower quality of life and teaching quality. The current study is aimed at exploring the prevalence and risk factors of MSDs among the schoolteachers in Hail, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted online among the teachers in Hail City using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Teachers were randomly selected from randomly selected high schools. Teachers with at least 1 year experience were recruited for the study. Descriptive statistics, Cochran's Q test, and binominal regression were used to investigate the prevalence of MSDs among such teachers and to determine if the percentage of MSDs differed by anatomical region and risk factor (one hundred forty-five males and 106 females filled out the questionnaires). The prevalence of MSDs in the last 12 months was 93.63% (235 of 251 teachers). Interestingly, 91% of the affected participants (214 of 235 teachers) complained of MSDs in more than one anatomical region. The most affected site was the lower back (183 of 251 teachers, 72.91%), followed by the shoulders (168 of 251 teachers, 66.93%), and the least affected sites were the elbows (45 of 251 teachers, 17.93%). The females showed a higher prevalence of MSDs than the males. Only gender was a significant risk factor for shoulder and neck MSDs (p < 0.02). Overall, the findings of the current study suggest a high prevalence of MSDs among teachers, especially in the lower back and shoulders. The affected teachers should learn more about biomechanics and ergonomics and should engage in exercise to improve their health. Future studies should focus on identifying the biomechanical and ergonomic risk factors of MSDs and on designing MSD prevention programmes to reduce the burden of MSDs.
Musculoskeletal pain and opioid misuse frequently co-occur. The US Preventive Services Task Force calls for all health care providers to be trained to screen for misuse and/or opioid use disorder. The purpose of this study was to develop and implement an opioid misuse training program that could be used by physical therapists. Thirteen practicing physical therapists were invited to participate in a curriculum development project. Using the Curriculum Framework, a collaborative learning approach was used to develop an opioid misuse training program and training manual for physical therapists. Four training sessions were provided virtually every 2 weeks. Topics included an introduction to the opioid crisis, screening, assessing, and communicating with patients and with the health care team about opioid misuse. Each didactic session was followed by a participant feedback session where participants provided recommendations on improving the training content and their impressions on the barriers and facilitators to incorporating the training into practice. A companion training manual was created and sent to participants for comment. Participants were asked over email to describe whether and how they incorporated training materials into clinical practice during the training curriculum. All participants attended sessions 1-3. Twelve (92.3%) attended the fourth session. Based on the participants' feedback, training sessions were edited, and a companion training manual was finalized and distributed to each participant. After the fourth session, 9 participants (69.2%) reported using what they learned in the training. During the participant feedback sessions, participants regarded the training as important. Some participants expressed barriers to discussing opioids with patients and concerns about whether the training was within physical therapists' scope of practice. An iteratively developed training program for physical therapists to address opioid misuse was acceptable, feasible, and provided immediate practice change by most participants.