bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of variable thermal relaxation time in non-Fourier heat transfer flow with nonlinear thermal stratification
Authors: Ahmad Shakeel , Hafeez Muhammad , Farooq Muhammad
Published: January 2023

Energy utilization is a significant aspect of the manufacturing industrial processes, and inefficient transferring of heat is one of the disadvantages which can affect the quality measures of end product. Therefore, by controlling the heat transferring rate, the efficiency of manufacturing processes can be improved. Thus, the variable thermal relaxation time factor in the theory of Cattaneo-Christov is main concern of this analysis. The non-isothermal flow by means of a porous medium is modeled and analyzed for a viscous fluid. The fluid deformation is discussed under stretching mechanism. A study is also executed to interrogate the heat transfer features under the heat flux model of Cattaneo-Christov. Thermal relaxation time is also considered which is determined by temperature. The aspect of thermal stratification is also implemented to see the modifications in temperature. The flow and energy equations are reduced by appropriate variables. The reduced constitutive flow equations are then computed using an analytical convergent technique. The significant impacts of the numerous parameters on the flow field and heat transport features are evaluated in detail through various plots. Skin friction coefficient is evaluated mathematically. Results found that the temperature significantly decreases with increased stratification effects. For larger thermal relaxation time parameter, the temperature function shows increasing behavior.
Wasp-stung rat model translationally expresses the coagulopathy manifestations of human wasp patients
Authors: Lai Dong , Tian Yan , Ji Chang-Fu , Zang Yuan , Fu Yaw-Syan , Weng Ching-Feng
Published: January 2023

Two over 80 wasp stings male victims appeared severe abnormal coagulation were consecutively examined by thromboelastography (TEG) guided with heparinase during hospitalization. However, the cause of coagulopathy remains unsolved. Rats were applied to establish a wasp-stung animal model highly resembled the manifestations of wasp-stung patients. According body surface area conversion, Sprague-Dawley rats were stung based on wasp sting numbers (0, 4, 8, 12 stings; n = 6 each) with various exposure times (0, 1, 3, 6 h) to determine the simulation of coagulopathy. The blood R, K values, and angle degree of wasp-stung rats were measured by TEG. The TEG profiles of stung rats were found to be concomitant with that of wasp-stung patients. Data showed that the endogenous heparinization of rats was time-dependent. Compared to the TEG profile of eight stings given rat, the coagulation time of 2 mm clot formation at 3 h (R value) was longer than that at 0 h. The coagulation time was prolonged with increasing sting numbers when compared to the various stings at 1, 3, and 6 h exposed. Interestingly, there was observed the peak coagulation at 3 h of eight stings. The Ck-standard and Ck-heparinase at 3 h after 8 stings given were R: 9.6–4.4 min; K: 3.8–1.8 min; angle degree: 49.8–68.0, respectively. The original data of R, K values and angle degree in two wasp-stung victims were 11.7–13.6 min, 4.3–5.5 min, and 41.2-32.8° in CK-standard, respectively; whereas those of the CK-heparinase groups were 5.6–6.7 min, 2.4–2.5 min, and 59.5–58.8°, correspondingly. Conclusively, this massive wasp-stung animal model can be applied to the investigations of pathogenesis and provides a clinical strategy or guideline for clinical intervention.
Periventricular Heterotopia and Novel FLNA Gene Variant: Clinical and Neuroimaging Clues for an Early Diagnosis
Authors: Vilan Ana , -Ferreira Margarida Vicente , Pereira Marisa , Sampaio Luísa , Grangeia Ana
Published: January 2023

Pathogenic variants in the X-linked FLNA gene encoding filamin A cause a wide range of manifestations, such as periventricular nodular heterotopia (PNH), cardiovascular malformations, connective tissue disorders, and pulmonary involvement with progressive lung disease and variable clinical outcomes ranging from lung transplantation to death.

We report a case of a term female newborn with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and unexplained respiratory distress in whom cranial ultrasound (cUS) was suggestive of PNH. Brain magnetic resonance imaging confirmed PNH and FLNA gene analysis identified a novel heterozygous pathogenic variant, c.3951C>G (p.Tyr1317Ter). She had complete resolution of her respiratory disease and spontaneous closure of her ductus arteriosus around 10 months. Since then, she developed chronic constipation and joint hypermobility.

Early recognition of cUS clues for PNH, associated with PDA and pulmonary involvement in a female newborn, guided genetic testing, allowing for a correct diagnosis and multidisciplinary surveillance of this heterogeneous disorder. We also highlight the good clinical outcome concerning lung involvement in contrast with cases reported in the literature.
Newborn Wearing an Ascot Cap
Authors: Priyadarshi Mayank , Singh Poonam , Chaurasia Suman , Basu Sriparna
Published: January 2023

This report describes a newborn with a congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN) over the scalp, which gave a striking appearance of an Ascot cap. Though CMN are common, their location gives a unique look and associated findings (dermatological lesions like satellite lesions, café-au-lait spots, Mongolian spots, etc.) are often underappreciated in clinical practice. Through this report, we also wish to convey a message that clinicians should decide the need for investigations (MRI brain to rule out neurocutaneous melanosis) in these benign conditions are based on individual risks rather than merely the presence of CMN.
Paracetamol versus paracetamol/tramadol in postoperative intertrochanteric fracture: A noninferiority, randomized, controlled, double-blind study
Authors: Sirithiantong Todsaporn , Chuekitkumchorn Sittha
Published: January 2023

Background

One of the most common osteoporotic fractures among the elderly is hip fracture with tramadol frequently being prescribed for these patients. To decrease the risk of falling from tramadol, this study aimed to ascertain the effectiveness of paracetamol compared to paracetamol/tramadol for pain control following hip fixation surgery.

Method

This was a noninferiority, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial at a tertiary care hospital. All patients were recruited between February 2020 and March 2022. Patients were randomly assigned to paracetamol alone (Group A) or paracetamol/tramadol (Group B). All patients in both groups followed the same protocol for the first two days after surgery. To ascertain differences in pain control between the two groups, different regimens were followed from postoperative days 3–5. Pain scores were assessed by a visual analog scale (VAS). All patients were asked to complete a satisfaction questionnaire on day 5.

Result

A total of 30 patients were randomly allocated into Group A (paracetamol alone) and 30 into Group B (paracetamol + tramadol). The mean pain score for Group A was 5.85 ± 0.52 and 5.35 ± 0.74 for Group B. Mean cumulative doses in Group A were 4.50 ± 1.33 and 4.06 ± 1.18 in Group B. Although the mean satisfaction with pain management was higher in Group B, this was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

VAS scores from Group A were slightly higher than Group B. Based on a 2.0-point noninferiority margin of pain, paracetamol alone was not inferior to paracetamol/tramadol in postoperative intertrochanteric fracture.
In Their Own Words: Women Veterans Identify the Personal Consequences of Military Sexual Trauma Victimization
Authors: Reinhardt Kristen M. , McCaughey Virginia K. , Vento Stephanie A. , Street Amy E.
Published: January 2023

This qualitative study provides a platform for women veterans to inform our perspective of their experienced impacts following military sexual trauma (MST). We engaged 23 women veterans in semistructured interviews and used a grounded theory-informed thematic analytic approach, to interpret women's experiences. Women described negative impacts of their MST experiences across psychological, behavioral, and occupational domains. Less frequently, women discussed experiences of posttraumatic growth. These results aid our understanding of the complexities of women's posttrauma experiences and suggest that holistic intervention frameworks focused on a range of potential intervention targets are warranted in helping women veterans recover from MST.
Experimental and finite element analyses of a 3D printed sandwich with an auxetic or non-auxetic core
Authors: Hamrouni Anis , Rebiere Jean-Luc , El Mahi Abderrahim , Beyaoui Moez , Haddar Mohamed
Published: January 2023

This work presents the results of experimental and numerical analyses of the static properties of architectural cores and the dynamic behavior of sandwich structures made with an auxetic or non-auxetic core. Three architectural cores have been studied which are re-entrant, rectangular and hexagonal honeycombs. Each configuration was produced with four relative densities depending on the number of cells in the width of the specimens. The specimens were made with additive manufacturing technology. The material used to make the specimens was polylactic acid with flax fibers. Several tensile tests were carried out on the architectural cores to analyze and understand the influence of the topology and the density of the core on the Poisson’s ratio and the Young’s modulus of these architectural structures. Then, vibration tests were carried out on the cores and the sandwich structures. The objective was to study the influence of these structures and their densities on the dynamic properties of sandwiches. The structural Poisson’s ratio shows a sensitive behavior to the core topology and density.
Prevalence, measurement, and implications of frailty in stroke survivors: An analysis of three global aging cohorts
Authors: Hanlon Peter , Burton Jennifer K , Quinn Terence J , Mair Frances S , McAllister David , Lewsey Jim , Gallacher Katie I
Published: January 2023

Background:

Our understanding of the relationship between frailty and stroke, beyond the acute phase of stroke, is limited. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of frailty in stroke survivors using differing methods of assessment and describe relationships with stroke outcomes.

Methods:

We used data from three international population surveys (American Health and Retirement Survey/English Longitudinal Study of Ageing/Survey for Health and Retirement in Europe) of aging. Frailty status was assessed using the Fried frailty phenotype, a 40-item frailty index (FI) and the clinical frailty scale (CFS). We created estimates of frailty prevalence and assessed association of frailty with outcomes of mortality/hospital admission/recurrent stroke at 2 years follow-up using logistic regression models adjusted for age/sex. Additional analyses explored effects of adding cognitive measures to frailty assessments and of missing grip strength data.

Findings:

Across 9617 stroke survivors, using the frailty phenotype, 23.8% (n = 2094) identified as frail; with CFS, 30.1% (n = 2906) were moderately or severely frail; using FI, 22.7% (n = 2147) had moderate frailty and 31.9% (n = 3021) had severe frailty. Frailty was associated with increased risk of mortality/hospitalization/recurrent stroke using all three measures. Adding cognitive variables to the FI produced minimal difference in prevalence of frailty. People with physical frailty (phenotype or CFS) plus cognitive impairment had a greater risk of mortality than people with an equivalent level of frailty but no cognitive impairment. Excluding people unable to provide grip strength underestimated frailty prevalence.

Interpretation:

Frailty is common in stroke and associated with poor outcomes, regardless of measure used. Adding cognitive variables to frailty phenotype/CFS measures identified those at greater risk of poor outcomes. Physical and cognitive impairments in stroke survivors do not preclude frailty assessment.
Characterizing mixed location hemorrhages/microbleeds with CSF markers
Authors: Jensen-Kondering Ulf , Margraf Nils G , Weiler Caroline , Maetzler Walter , Dargvainiene Justina , Falk Kim , Philippen Sarah , Bartsch Thorsten , Flüh Charlotte , Röcken Christoph , Möller Bettina , Royl Georg , Neumann Alexander , Brüggemann Norbert , Roeben Benjamin , Schulte Claudia , Bender Benjamin , Berg Daniela , Kuhlenbäumer Gregor
Published: January 2023

Objective:

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a common cause of lobar and subarachnoid hemorrhages in the elderly. A diagnosis of CAA requires multiple lobar hemorrhagic lesions (intracerebral hemorrhage and/or cerebral microbleeds) and/or cortical superficial siderosis (cSS). In contrast, hemorrhagic lesions located in the deep structures are the hallmark of hypertensive arteriopathy (HTN-A). They are an exclusion criterion for CAA, and when present with lobar hemorrhagic lesions considered a separate entity: mixed location hemorrhages/microbleeds (MLHs). We compared clinical, radiological, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) marker data in patients with CAA, MLH, and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and healthy controls (HCs) and used it to position MLH in the disease spectrum.

Patients and Methods:

Retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients with CAA (n = 31), MLH (n = 31), AD (n = 28), and HC (n = 30). Analysis of clinical, radiological, CSF biomarker (Aß42, Aß40, t-tau, and p-tau), and histopathological data in patients each group.

Results:

cSS was significantly more common in CAA than MLH (45% vs 13%, p = 0.011), and cSS in MLH was associated with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) (p = 0.037). Aß42 levels and the Aß42/Aß40 ratio, diagnostic groups followed the order HC > MLH > CAA > AD and the opposite order for t-tau and p-tau. No clear order was apparent forAß40. Aß40 and Aß42 levels as well as the Aß42/Aß40 ratio were lower in both CAA and MLH patients with cSS than in patients without cSS. Aß40 and Aß42 levels were higher in CAA and MLH patients with lacunar infarcts than in those without.

Conclusion:

Our data suggest that MLH and CAA are mutually not exclusive diagnoses, and are part of a spectrum with variable contributions of both CAA and HTN-A.
Association of post-stroke fatigue with physical activity and physical fitness: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Larsson Petra , Bidonde Julia , Olsen Unni , Gay Caryl L , Lerdal Anners , Ursin Marie , Mead Gillian Elizabeth , Edvardsen Elisabeth
Published: January 2023

Background:

It has been hypothesized that post-stroke fatigue (PSF) is associated with reduced physical activity (PA) and impaired physical fitness (fitness). Understanding associations between PSF and PA, and/or fitness could help guide the development of targeted exercise interventions to treat PSF.

Aims:

Our systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate PSF’s associations with PA and fitness.

Summary of review:

Following a registered protocol, we included studies with cross-sectional or prospective observational designs, published in English or a Scandinavian language, which reported an association of PSF with PA and/or fitness in adult stroke survivors. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, AMED, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ClinicalTrials.gov, and World Health Organization’s International Clinical Trials Registry Platform from inception to November 30, 2022. Risk of bias was assessed using Quality in Prognosis Studies. Thirty-two unique studies (total n = 4721 participants, 55% male), and three study protocols were included. We used random-effects meta-analysis to pool data for PA and fitness outcomes, and vote-counting of direction of association to synthesize data that could not be meta-analyzed. We found moderate-certainty evidence of a weak association between higher PSF and impaired fitness (meta r = –0.24; 95% confidence interval (CI) = –0.33, –0.15; n = 905, 7 studies), and very low-certainty evidence of no association between PSF and PA (meta r = –0.09; 95% CI = –0.34, 0.161; n = 430, 3 studies). Vote-counting showed a higher proportion of studies with associations between higher PSF and impaired fitness (pˆ = 0.83; 95% CI = 0.44, 0.97; p = 0.22, n = 298, 6 studies), and with associations between higher PSF and lower PA (pˆ = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.51, 0.90; p = 0.08, n = 2566, 16 studies). Very low- to moderate-certainty evidence reflects small study sample sizes, high risk of bias, and inconsistent results.

Conclusions:

The meta-analysis showed moderate-certainty evidence of an association between higher PSF and impaired fitness. These results indicate that fitness might protect against PSF. Larger prospective studies and randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of exercise on PSF are needed to confirm these findings.
Case report and discussion of pregnancy in a woman with Labrune syndrome and neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Wilson Alison , Hensiek Anke , Jones Megan
Published: January 2023

Labrune syndrome is a rare neurological autosomal recessive condition characterised by leukoencephalopathy, cerebral calcification and parenchymal cysts. Pregnancy has not been previously reported in an individual with this condition. This case report details the pregnancy of a primiparous woman with Labrune syndrome and neurofibromatosis type 1 who experienced a seizure in the second trimester of pregnancy, but went on to deliver her baby at term with good outcome for mother and baby. The case highlights the importance of pre-pregnancy advice in women with genetic conditions, and a multidisciplinary approach to the care of women with rare and complicated medical conditions during pregnancy.
Evaluation of prototype risk prediction tools for clinicians and people living with type 2 diabetes in North West London using the think aloud method
Authors: Gardner Clarissa , Wake Deborah , Brodie Doogie , Silverstein Alex , Young Sophie , Cunningham Scott , Sainsbury Chris , Ilia Maria , Lucas Amanda , Willis Tony , Halligan Jack
Published: January 2023

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes in North West London (NWL) is relatively high compared to other parts of the United Kingdom with outcomes suboptimal. This presents a need for more effective strategies to identify people living with type 2 diabetes who need additional support. An emerging subset of web-based interventions for diabetes self-management and population management has used artificial intelligence and machine learning models to stratify the risk of complications from diabetes and identify patients in need of immediate support. In this study, two prototype risk prediction tools on the MyWay Diabetes and MyWay Clinical platforms were evaluated with six clinicians and six people living with type 2 diabetes in NWL using the think aloud method. The results of the sessions with people living with type 2 diabetes showed that the concept of the tool was intuitive, however, more instruction on how to correctly use the risk prediction tool would be valuable. The feedback from the sessions with clinicians was that the data presented in the tool aligned with the key diabetes targets in NWL, and that this would be useful for identifying and inviting patients to the practice who are overdue for tests and at risk of complications. The findings of the evaluation have been used to support the development of the prototype risk predictions tools. This study demonstrates the value of conducting usability testing on web-based interventions designed to support the targeted management of type 2 diabetes in local communities.
Validity and repeatability of the IUATLD (1984) Bronchial Symptoms Questionnaire: an international comparison
Authors: Burney PG , Laitinen LA , Perdrizet S , Huckauf H , Tattersfield AE , Chinn S , Poisson N , Heeren A , Britton  , Jones T
Published: January 2023

The International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (IUATLD) Bronchial Symptoms Questionnaire (1984) was developed for use in studies of asthma and its reliability measured in an earlier survey in England. The association of the symptoms elicited by this questionnaire to bronchial response to histamine has also been described. This paper presents the results of studies of the questionnaire in four clinical centres in Europe. The reliability of the questionnaire and its ability to predict the bronchial response to histamine were compared for English, Finnish, French and German translations of the questionnaire in samples of diagnosed asthmatics and controls in Nottingham, Berlin, Helsinki and Paris. The answers to questions showed good repeatability, especially in Finland and Germany, particularly those questions on asthma and wheeze. The most sensitive symptom for predicting hyperresponsiveness was the question on wheeze, the most specific questions were those on waking at night with shortness of breath (Paris and Nottingham) and morning tightness (Helsinki and Berlin). This study shows that the IUATLD (1984) questionnaire may provide useful, valid and comparable data even in translation but these studies will need to be repeated in representative samples before such a possibility is accepted as fully demonstrated.
Lung cancer: the American view
Authors: Sanderson DR , Jett
Published: January 2023

Bronchogenic carcinoma is a major public health problem in the United States, and the leading cancer killer in both men and women. In the early 1970s, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) sponsored multicentre clinical trials to assess the effects of screening by sputum cytology testing and serial chest X-ray examinations on lung cancer mortality in high-risk male smokers. Although more lung cancers were detected, more early stage 1 cancers were resected, and 5 year survival rates were improved in the screened populations than in unscreened controls, there were nearly equal numbers of advanced cancers, and mortality rates were not significantly different. Thus, mass screening to detect early lung cancer has not been pursued as public policy in the United States. In the 1980s, emphasis has shifted to efforts at lung cancer prevention through educational programs aimed at smoking prevention and cessation. In 1984, the NCI adopted a national goal of reducing lung cancer mortality by 50% by the year 2000. Strategy to achieve this is an intensive behaviour modification program to encourage a social climate for smoking abstinence, prevent initiation of smoking among children and adolescents and supply educational materials and encouragement through health care workers and community-based programs.
Iris lactea var. chinensis plant drought tolerance depends on the response of proline metabolism, transcription factors, transporters and the ROS-scavenging system
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhang Ruihai , Song Zhen , Fu Weidong , Yun Lingling , Gao Jinhui , Hu Guang , Wang Zhonghui , Wu Hanwen , Zhang Guoliang , Wu Jiahe
Published: January 2023

Background

Iris lactea var. chinensis, a perennial herbaceous species, is widely distributed and has good drought tolerance traits. However, there is little information in public databases concerning this herb, so it is difficult to understand the mechanism underlying its drought tolerance.

Results

In this study, we used Illumina sequencing technology to conduct an RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of I. lactea var. chinensis plants under water-stressed conditions and rehydration to explore the potential mechanisms involved in plant drought tolerance. The resulting de novo assembled transcriptome revealed 126,979 unigenes, of which 44,247 were successfully annotated. Among these, 1187 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from a comparison of the water-stressed treatment and the control (CK) treatment (T/CK); there were 481 upregulated genes and 706 downregulated genes. Additionally, 275 DEGs were identified in the comparison of the rehydration treatment and the water-stressed treatment (R/T). Based on Quantitative Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis, the expression levels of eight randomly selected unigenes were consistent with the transcriptomic data under water-stressed and rehydration treatment, as well as in the CK. According to Gene Ontology (GO) annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, proline metabolism-related DEGs, including those involved in the ‘proline catabolic process’, the ‘proline metabolic process’, and ‘arginine and proline metabolism’, may play important roles in plant drought tolerance. Additionally, these DEGs encoded 43 transcription factors (TFs), 46 transporters, and 22 reactive oxygen species (ROS)-scavenging system-related proteins. Biochemical analysis and histochemical detection showed that proline and ROS were accumulated under water-stressed conditions, which is consistent with the result of the transcriptomic analysis.

Conclusions

In summary, our transcriptomic data revealed that the drought tolerance of I. lactea var. chinensis depends on proline metabolism, the action of TFs and transporters, and a strong ROS-scavenging system. The related genes found in this study could help us understand the mechanisms underlying the drought tolerance of I. lactea var. chinensis.
Semiparametric modelling of diabetic retinopathy among people with type II diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yirdaw Bezalem Eshetu , Debusho Legesse Kassa
Published: January 2023

Background

The proportion of patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR) has grown with increasing number of diabetes mellitus patients in the world. It is among the major causes of blindness worldwide. The main objective of this study was to identify contributing risk factors of DR among people with type II diabetes mellitus.

Method

A sample of 191 people with type II diabetes mellitus was selected from the Black Lion Specialized Hospital diabetic unit from 1 March 2018 to 1 April 2018. A multivariate stochastic regression imputation technique was applied to impute the missing values. The response variable, DR is a categorical variable with two outcomes. Based on the relationship derived from the exploratory analysis, the odds of having DR were not necessarily linearly related to the continuous predictors for this sample of patients. Therefore, a semiparametric model was proposed to identify the risk factors of DR.

Result

From the sample of 191 people with type II diabetes mellitus, 98 (51.3%) of them had DR. The results of semiparametric regression model revealed that being male, hypertension, insulin treatment, and frequency of clinical visits had a significant linear relationships with the odds of having DR. In addition, the log- odds of having DR has a significant nonlinear relation with the interaction of age by gender (for female patients), duration of diabetes, interaction of cholesterol level by gender (for female patients), haemoglobin A1c, and interaction of haemoglobin A1c by fasting blood glucose with degrees of freedom $$3.2, 2.7, 3.6, 2.3 \, \text{ and }\, 3.7$$

3.2
,
2.7
,
3.6
,
2.3

and

3.7

, respectively. The interaction of age by gender and cholesterol level by gender appear non significant for male patients. The result from the interaction of haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) by fasting blood glucose (FBG) showed that the risk of DR is high when the level of HbA1c and FBG were simultaneously high.

Conclusion

Clinical variables related to people with type II diabetes mellitus were strong predictive factors of DR. Hence, health professionals should be cautious about the possible nonlinear effects of clinical variables, interaction of clinical variables, and interaction of clinical variables with sociodemographic variables on the log odds of having DR. Furthermore, to improve intervention strategies similar studies should be conducted across the country.
Screening efficacy of PhA and MNA-SF in different stages of sarcopenia in the older adults in community
Authors: Zhu Xiaoli , Dong Xinying , Wang Li , Lao Xueting , Li Shugang , Wu Hao
Published: January 2023

Objective

To compare the screening ability of the phase Angle (PhA) and the Short-Form Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA-SF) alone and combined detection in the different stages of sarcopenia among the older adults in the community.

Methods

The older adults aged 65 and above were enlisted during community outpatient service and their nutritional status was evaluated by MNA-SF scale. PhA was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). AWGS2019 and EWGSOP2010 were used to define the different stages of sarcopenia. We measured skeletal mass index (SMI) and grip strength with BIA and electronic grip apparatus and measured body function with 6-m pace, SPPB test, and standing test.

Results

The AUC of PhA in the screening of possible sarcopenia was 0.640, the sensitivity was 58.49%, the specificity was 66.67%, and the cut-off value was 4.5. The AUC of the combined PhA and MNA-SF for possible sarcopenia was 0.642, the sensitivity was 57.55%, and the specificity was 70.00%. The AUC of MNA-SF for the screening of pre-sarcopenia was 0.805, the sensitivity was 66.67%, the specificity was 85.83%, and the cut-off value was 12. The AUC of the combined PhA and MNA-SF was 0.826, the sensitivity was 75.00%, and the specificity was 85.00%. The AUC of PhA in the screening of sarcopenia (common type) was 0.808, the sensitivity was 82.35%, the specificity was 73.33%, the cut-off value was 4.4. The AUC of the combined PhA and MNA-SF for sarcopenia (common type) was 0.835, the sensitivity was 76.47% and the specificity was 81.67%. The AUC of PhA and for the screening of severe sarcopenia was 0.935, the sensitivity was 93.33%, the specificity was 92.50%, and the cut-off value was 4.1. The AUC of the combined PhA and MNA-SF was 0.943, the sensitivity was 86.67%, and the specificity was 93.33%.

Conclusion

The screening ability of PhA alone or in combination was higher than that of MNA-SF in the screening of possible sarcopenia. The screening ability of the combined detection was higher than that of PhA alone in the screening of pre-sarcopenia. The combination of PhA and MNA-SF or PhA alone all performed better value in the screening of sarcopenia (common type). Compared to MNA-SF, the PhA performed better in the screening of severe sarcopenia, which provided references for identifying patients with different stages of sarcopenia in the community.
Using the teach-back method to improve postpartum maternal-infant health among women with limited maternal health literacy: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Cheng Gui Zhi , Chen An , Xin Youdi , Ni Qian Qian
Published: January 2023

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of using the teach-back method among women with limited maternal health literacy (LMHL) on maternal health literacy(MHL), postpartum health behaviours and maternal-infant health outcomes.

Methods

A randomized controlled study was conducted in the obstetrics department of Anhui Provincial Hospital, China. A total of 258 pregnant women with LMHL were recruited at the point of admission to the hospital for birth and randomly assigned to the control group (n = 130), where women received routine education sessions, and the teach-back group (n = 128), where women received routine education sessions plus a teach-back intervention. The two groups were assessed in terms of MHL before and after the intervention, breastfeeding execution, uptake of 42-day postpartum check-ups, complete uptake of one-time recommended vaccines, and physical health outcomes. Statistical tests were employed for data analysis.

Results

There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of MHL and other social, demographic, and medical status at baseline. After the intervention, the teach-back group had a higher level of MHL (p < 0.001), better postpartum health behaviours in terms of exclusive breastfeeding within 24 hours postpartum (x2 = 22.853, p<0.001), exclusive breastfeeding within 42 days postpartum (x2 = 47.735, p<0.001), uptake of 42-day postpartum check-ups (x2 = 9.050, p = 0.003) and vaccination (x2 = 5.586, p = 0.018) and better maternal-infant health outcomes in terms of the incidence of subinvolution of the uterus (x2 = 6.499, p = 0.011), acute mastitis (x2 = 4.884, p = 0.027), postpartum constipation (x2 = 5.986, p = 0.014), overweight (x2 = 4.531, p = 0.033) and diaper dermatitis (x2 = 10.896, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

This study shows that the teach-back method is effective for enhancing MHL, leading to positive postpartum health behaviours, and improving postpartum maternal-infant health outcomes among women with LMHL. The teach-back method may play an important role in improving postpartum maternal-infant health and could be considered in maternal health education.

Trial registration number

Our trial has been prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Ref. No.: NCT04858945) and the enrollment date was 26/04/2021.
Pregnancy outcomes in women with pulmonary hypertension: a retrospective study in China
Authors: Lv Chengtian , Huang Yuwen , Liao Guangyuan , Wu Lichan , Chen Dunjin , Gao Yuanmei
Published: January 2023

Background

In recent years, with the development of monitoring conditions and the application of pulmonary vascular-targeted drugs, pregnancy outcomes in women with pulmonary hypertension (PH) have improved, but the maternal mortality rate is still high. The purpose of this study was to describe the maternal-foetal outcomes in pregnant women with PH.

Methods

The clinical data of 154 pregnant women with PH who were admitted to the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University from January 2011 to December 2020 were collected and descriptively analysed.

Results

Among the 154 pregnant women with PH, 6 (3.9%) had idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (iPAH), 41 (26.6%) had pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) associated with congenital heart disease (CHD-PAH), 45 (29.2%) had PAH related to other diseases (oPAH), and 62 (40.3%) had PH related to left heart disease (LHD-PH). The systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) was 36–49 mmHg in 53.2% of the patients, 50–69 mmHg in 22.1% of the patients and ≥ 70 mmHg in 24.7% of the patients. Five (3.2%) pregnant women died within 1 week after delivery; iPAH patients had the highest mortality rate (3/6, 50%). Fifty-four patients (35.1%) were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), and the incidence of heart failure during pregnancy was 14.9%. A total of 70.1% of the patients underwent caesarean section; 42.9% had premature infants; 28.6% had low-birth-weight (LBW) infants; 13.0% had very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants; 3.2% had extremely-low-birth-weight (ELBW) infants; 61% had small for gestational age (SGA) infants; and 1.9% experienced neonatal mortality.

Conclusion

There were significant differences in the maternal-foetal outcomes in the iPAH, CHD-PAH, oPAH and LHD-PH groups. Maternal mortality was highest in the iPAH group; therefore, iPAH patients should be advised to prevent pregnancy. Standardized and multidiscipline-assisted maternal management is the key to improving maternal-foetal outcomes.
Social innovation in health: strengthening Community Systems for Universal Health Coverage in rural areas
Authors: van Niekerk Lindi , Bautista-Gomez Martha Milena , Msiska Barwani Khaura , Mier-Alpaño Jana Deborah B. , Ongkeko Arturo M. , Manderson Lenore
Published: January 2023

Background

In seeking the attainment of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), there has been a renewed emphasis on the role of communities. This article focuses on social innovation and whether this concept holds promise to enhance equity in health services to achieve UHC and serve as a process to enhance community engagement, participation, and agency.

Methods

A cross-country case study methodology was adopted to analyze three social innovations in health in three low- and middle-income countries (LMICs): Philippines, Malawi, and Colombia. Qualitative methods were used in data collection, and a cross-case analysis was conducted with the aid of a simplified version of the conceptual framework on social innovation as proposed by Cajaiba-Santana. This framework proposes four dimensions of social innovation as a process at different levels of action: the actors responsible for the idea, the new idea, the role of the institutional environment, and the resultant changes in the health and social system.

Results

The study found that each of the three social innovation case studies was based on developing community capacities to achieve health through community co-learning, leadership, and accountability.

The process was dependent on catalytic agents, creating a space for innovation within the institutional context. In so doing, these agents challenged the prevailing power dynamics by providing the communities with respect and the opportunity to participate equally in creating and implementing programs. In this way, communities were empowered; they were not simply participants but became active agents in conceptualizing, implementing, monitoring, and sustaining the social innovation initiatives.

Conclusion

The study has illustrated how three creative social innovation approaches improved access and quality of health services for vulnerable rural populations and increased agency among the intervention communities. The processes facilitated empowerment, which in turn supported the sustained strengthening of the community system and the achievement of community goals in the domain of health and beyond.
Seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and factors associated with infection among adolescent men who have sex with men and transgender women in Salvador, Brazil
Authors: Santos Carina C. , de M. Lima Fernanda W. , Magno Laio , Soares Fabiane , Ferraz Dulce , Grangeiro Alexandre , Zucchi Eliana Miura , Préau Marie , Mabire Xavier , Matos Helen R. S. S. , Dourado Inês ,   the COBra Study Group
Published: January 2023

Background

Brazil was strongly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of the pandemic on sexual and gender minorities’ youth remains unknown. This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and associated factors among adolescent men who have sex with men (AMSM) and transgender women (ATGW) participants of a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pre-exposure prophylaxis cohort study (PrEP1519).

Methods

This is a cross-sectional design conducted between June and October 2020 in Salvador, Brazil. Serum samples were collected from AMSM and ATGW aged 16-21 years between June-October 2020. IgG and IgM anti-SARS-CoV-2 were detected by chemiluminescence immunoassay, and data were collected through a socio-behavioral questionnaire.

Results

Among the 137 participants, the seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM was 20.4%; 16.8% of the participants were positive for IgG, and 11.7% for IgM. In the multivariable analysis, the seroprevalence was two times higher among those who never wore masks (OR= 2.22; 95% CI: 1.08-4.57) and among those who believed that they could be easily cured of the disease (OR= 2.05; 95% CI: 1.05-4.01).

Conclusions

The high seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among gender and sexual minority youth seems to be informed by behaviors and attitudes that contrast with public health measures and the potential severity of the disease when vaccination was still not available.
Epidemiology and prevalence of pulmonary sequestration in Chinese population, 2010–2019
Authors: Gao Yuyang , Xu Wenli , Li Wenyan , Chen Zhiyu , Li Qi , Liu Zhen , Liu Hanmin , Dai Li
Published: January 2023

Background

Pulmonary sequestration (PS) is the second common congenital lung malformation and has been known for over 150 years. However, there is a scarcity of epidemiological studies on it. This study aimed to characterize the epidemiology of pulmonary sequestration in Chinese population in the recent decade by using a nationwide database.

Methods

Using data from the Chinese Birth Defects Monitoring Network during 2010–2019, the prevalence rates for PS were calculated by birth year, maternal age, residence area, geographical region, and infant sex. Variations in prevalence and changes over time were further examined. Other variables of interest for analysis included the pregnancy outcomes of affected infants, the prenatal diagnosis, and the co-occurring anomalies of PS cases.

Results

During the study period, we identified an average prevalence rate of 0.31, 0.11, and 0.42 per 10,000 live and still births for the isolated, non-isolated, and overall PS, respectively. An upward trend was observed for each category of PS. The prevalence rates varied significantly by maternal age (< 20 years, 0.34/10,000; 20–24 years, 0.33/10,000; 25–29 years, 0.45/10,000; 30–34 years, 0.46/10,000; ≥ 35 years, 0.36/10,000), residence area (urban vs. rural, 0.51/10,000 vs. 0.30/10,000), geographical region (western, 0.33/10,000; eastern, 0.49/10,000; central, 0.43/10,000), and by infant sex (male vs. female, 0.45/10,000 vs. 0.38/10,000). Non-isolated PS cases were more likely born prematurely than isolated cases (15.29% vs. 7.83%). 40.28% and 33.80% of non-isolated cases were accompanied by additional respiratory, and circulatory system malformations, respectively.

Conclusions

The study presents for the first time the prevalence of pulmonary sequestration in Chinese population. The rising prevalence and relatively poor perinatal outcome of affected fetuses or newborns indicate the necessity to improve perinatal management of PS.
Establishment and validation of a simple nomogram for predicting early postpartum stress urinary incontinence among women with vaginal delivery: a retrospective study
Authors: Xu Chuangchuang , Guo Ying , Chi Xiaolei , Chen Yiyao , Chu Lei , Chen Xinliang
Published: January 2023

Background

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common public health issue that negatively impacts the quality of life for women worldwide, of which early detection and rehabilitation are consequently pivotal. The aim of this study is to establish a simple nomogram for identifying women at risk of postpartum SUI.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary specialized hospital in Shanghai, China. The study included only women with singleton, full-term, and vaginal deliveries. 2,441 women who delivered from July 2019 to November 2019 were included in the training cohort, and 610 women who delivered from January 2022 to February 2022 were included in the validation cohort. SUI was determined by the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI-SF). Univariate and multifactorial logistical regression were used to identify independent risk factors for postpartum SUI and further construct the nomogram accordingly. Based on concordance statistics (C-statistics), calibration curves, and decision curve analyses, we evaluated the performance of the nomogram in the training cohort and the validation cohort. In addition, the model was validated internally in the training cohort through cross-validation.

Results

There were no significant statistically differences in important baseline data such as age, pre-pregnancy BMI, and parity between the training and validation cohorts. SUI was observed in 431 (17.6%) and 125 (20.5%) women in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. According to the regression analysis, age, parity, second stage of labor, infant weight, and forceps delivery were included in the nomogram. The nomogram had a C-statistic of 0.80 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74–0.85) for predicting SUI. C-statistics were stable in both internally cross-validated training cohort (mean 0.81) and validation cohort (0.83 [95% CI 0.79–0.87]). The nomogram’s calibration curve was near the ideal diagonal line. Additionally, the model exhibited a positive net benefit from the decision curve analysis.

Conclusion

We have created a nomogram that can be utilized to quantify the risk of postpartum SUI for women with vaginal delivery. The model might contribute to predicting early postpartum SUI, thereby facilitating the management of SUI.
The changed endemic pattern of human adenovirus from species B to C among pediatric patients under the pressure of non-pharmaceutical interventions against COVID-19 in Beijing, China
Authors: Wang Fangming , Zhu Runan , Qian Yuan , Sun Yu , Chen Dongmei , Wang Fang , Zhou Yutong , Guo Qi , Liu Liying , Xu Yanpeng , Cao Ling , Qu Dong , Zhao Linqing
Published: January 2023

Background

Under the pressure of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) targeting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the prevalence of human adenovirus (HAdV) was monitored before and after NPIs launched on Jan 24, 2020 in pediatric patients in Beijing, China.

Methods

Respiratory samples collected from children hospitalized with acute respiratory infections from Jan 2015 to Dec 2021 were screened by direct immunofluorescence test or capillary electrophoresis-based multiplex PCR assay. The hexon, penton base, and fiber genes were amplified from HAdV positive specimens, then sequenced. For HAdV typing, phylogenetic trees were built by MEGA X. Then clinical data of HAdV positive cases were collected. All data were evaluated using SPSS Statistics 22.0 software.

Results

A total of 16,097 children were enrolled and 466 (2.89%, 466/16,097) were HAdV-positive. The positive rates of HAdV varied, ranging from 4.39% (151/3,438) in 2018 to1.25% (26/2,081) in 2021, dropped from 3.19% (428/13,408) to 1.41% (38/2,689) from before to after NPIs launched (P < 0.001). There were 350 cases typed into nine types of species B, C, or E and 34 recorded as undetermined. Among them, HAdV-B3 (51.56%, 198/384) was the most prevalent types from 2015 to 2017, and HAdV-B7 (29.17%, 112/384) co-circulated with HAdV-B3 from 2018 to 2019. After NPIs launched, HAdV-B3 and B7 decreased sharply with HAdV-B7 undetected in 2021, while HAdV-C1 became the dominant one and the undetermined were more.

Conclusions

The endemic pattern of HAdV changed in Beijing because of the NPIs launched for COVID-19. Especially, the dominant types changed from HAdV-B to HAdV-C.