bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mental Health Disparities Among Homosexual Men and Minorities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Malik Muhammad Hadi , Iqbal Shahid , Noman Muhammad , Sarfraz Zouina , Sarfraz Azza , Mustafa Shabbir
Published: May 2023

Mental health disparities in sexual minorities, particularly homosexual and bisexual men, are a significant public health concern. This study examines six key themes: general psychiatric issues, health services, minority stress, trauma and PTSD, substance and drug misuse, and suicidal ideation. The aim is to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the evidence, identify potential intervention and prevention strategies, and address knowledge gaps in understanding the unique experiences of homosexual and bisexual men. Reported as per the PRISMA Statement 2020 guidelines, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched until February 15, 2023, with no language restrictions. A combination of the following keywords and MeSH terms was used: homosexual, bisexual, gay, men who have sex with men, mental health, psychiatric disorders, health disparities, sexual minorities, anxiety, depression, minority, stress, trauma, substance, drug misuse, and/or suicidality. Out of 1,971 studies located through database searching, 28 were included in this study pooling a total of 199,082 participants from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, China, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Israel, Switzerland, and Russia. Thematic findings of all the studies were tabulated and thereby synthesized. Addressing mental health disparities in gay, bisexual men, and sexual minorities requires evidence-based, comprehensive approaches, culturally competent care, accessible services, targeted prevention strategies, community-based support, public awareness, routine screenings, and research collaboration. This inclusive, research-informed approach can effectively reduce mental health issues and enable optimal well-being in these populations.
Hyperacute stenting and angioplasty for acute extracranial non-tandem internal carotid artery strokes within the first 48 h: A 20-year experience and a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Baig Ammad A , Lai Pui Man Rosalind , Turner Ryan C , Donnelly Brianna M , Kuo Cathleen C , Lim Jaims , Raygor Kunal P , Bouslama Mehdi , Prasad Shefalika , Fayyaz Najya , Snyder Kenneth V , Davies Jason M , Siddiqui Adnan H , Levy Elad I
Published: May 2023

Background

Acute strokes involving complete, isolated occlusion of the extracranial cervical internal carotid artery (EC-ICA) with no intracranial clot burden account for a minority of stroke cases that are managed variably. Here we present our two-decade experience and a systematic review of endovascular management of acute isolated EC-ICA strokes in the hyperacute phase (<48 h) and attempt to evaluate clinical effectiveness and safety.

Methods

Our prospectively maintained database was retrospectively searched for patients who presented between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2022 with acute cervical ICA stroke confirmed on angiography. Only patients who had an isolated 100% occlusion of the cervical ICA segment and attempted acute stenting with/without angioplasty within the first 48 h of time since last known well were included. Demographics, procedural details, and outcomes were recorded. For the systematic review, a search of PubMed and Embase databases was conducted.

Results

Forty-six patients with acute, isolated EC-ICA occlusive stroke were included. Median presenting National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was 8 (interquartile range 3–10) with a perfusion deficit in 78.3% of the 40 cases assessed with computed tomography perfusion imaging. Median time from symptom onset to intra-arterial puncture was 14.4 h. Immediate recanalization was achieved in 82.6% cases. Two cases (4.3%) of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) occurred postprocedure. Outcome measures were stable or improved discharge NIHSS score in 86.9% of cases, functional independence at 90 days (modified Rankin scale score ≤2) in 78.3%, and mortality in 6.5%. The systematic review included 167 patients from four articles. The estimated rate of immediate recanalization was 92.7% (95% confidence interval (CI), 88.77–96.77%), favorable outcome was 62.01% (95% CI, 55.04–69.87%), and sICH was 6.2% (95% CI, 3.41–11.32%).

Conclusion

Stenting and angioplasty for acute cervical ICA occlusive strokes during the hyperacute phase can be performed successfully with favorable clinical outcomes and an acceptable recanalization rate.
Perceptions of courage: Elementary school leaders’ perspectives
Authors: Dor-Haim Peleg , Nir Adam
Published: May 2023

Despite the extensive research that has been done on the courage of managers in for-profit organisations, the courage of educational leaders has not been systematically studied. Educational leaders’ courage is unique since it requires them to act under conditions of ambiguity with only limited ability to justify their actions. The current study examines the perceptions of public school principals regarding the manifestations of courage on their job and the meaning they attribute to each of them. Based on 20 semi-structured interviews with Israeli elementary school principals, four distinctive patterns of courage were found: (a) courage to initiate change and innovations in school; (b) courage to change one's own perspectives following a forced change; (c) courage to stand up for one's own personal values; and (d) courage to defend organisational norms that are challenged. Based on the analysis, several insights are provided, and practical implications are suggested.
A cultural lens to school leadership effects on teacher instructional practices: The mediation of teacher collective efficacy and the moderation of uncertainty avoidance
Authors: Özdemir Servet , Sezgin Ferudun , Kılınç Ali Çağatay , Polatcan Mahmut
Published: May 2023

This study explores how and under what boundary conditions school leadership influences teachers’ instructional practices in Turkey. Using survey data from a sample of 928 teachers in 87 middle and high schools, the present study tested a moderated mediation model of school leadership's effects on teacher instructional practices, with teacher collective efficacy as the mediator and uncertainty avoidance perceptions of teachers as the moderator. We performed a multilevel structural equation modeling with Bayesian estimation to examine the relationships between our constructs. The results showed significant indirect effects of school leadership on teacher instructional practices with the significant mediator role of teacher collective efficacy. However, the distinct contribution of this study lies in exploring the moderator role of uncertainty avoidance on the effect of school leadership on teacher instructional practices through teacher collective efficacy. Our results enhance the field's understanding of how and to what extent cultural aspects of any given society shape the effects of school leadership practices on teaching.
Alcohol consumption and pregnancy in American Indian and Alaska Native women: A scoping review of the literature
Authors: Hanson Jessica D , Sarche Michelle , Buchwald Dedra
Published: May 2023

American Indian and Alaska Native communities have diverse cultures, histories, and contemporary experiences. Grouping them together masks the differences in health and lifestyle behaviors, chronic disease rates, and health outcomes among them. This is particularly true for data on drinking during pregnancy among American Indian and Alaska Native women. The goal of this article is to describe how generalizing findings from data gathered from often small, geographically specific samples, combined with inferior research methodologies, has led to misunderstandings about drinking among preconceptual and pregnant American Indian and Alaska Native women. We conducted a scoping review using PubMed and the “PCC mnemonic” (population, concept, and context) as our guide. Our search terms included the population (American Indian and Alaska Native women), concept (alcohol), and context (immediately before or during pregnancy) and focused on PubMed articles in the United States. Using these search terms, we uncovered a total of 38 publications and eliminated 19, leaving 19 for review. Methodologically (i.e. how data were collected), we found most previous research on prenatal or preconceptual alcohol use with American Indian and Alaska Native women used retrospective data collection. We also assessed who data were collected from and noted two groups: studies that sampled higher-risk women and those that focused on American Indian and Alaska Native women in specific geographic areas. Restricting data collection to higher-risk American Indian and Alaska Native women or conducting small studies in specific geographic areas has generated an incomplete and inaccurate picture of American Indian and Alaska Native women as a whole as well as those who consume alcohol. Data from select groups of American Indian and Alaska Native women may overestimate the true prevalence of drinking during pregnancy among this population. Updated and accurate data on drinking during pregnancy are urgently needed to inform the development of interventions and prevention efforts.
Strangulated giant inguinal scrotal hernia with traction perforation at lesser curve of the stomach
Authors: Chuah Jun Sen , Tan Jih Huei , Chandrasekaran Tharveen Nair , Chiew Jun Loong , Alwi Rizal Imran
Published: May 2023

A giant inguinoscrotal hernia is typically associated with a low risk of bowel obstruction or strangulation. When the hernia is complicated with acute gastric perforation, it is an exceedingly rare clinical entity. The operative strategy may be definitive at the index surgery or staged. The technical challenge is the severity of the peritoneal contamination contradicting mesh placement, coupled with the loss of domain. Herein we report a 58-year-old man with a long-standing right giant inguinoscrotal hernia, who presented with strangulation with a 1 day history. An urgent midline laparotomy access revealed a large tear over the lesser curvature of the stomach, attributable to choking at the hernia neck. Furthermore, there was severe contamination with total bowels herniation into the sac. We performed a complete reduction of hernia content, primary repair of stomach perforation, and primary closure of midline access and hernia neck repair with posterior wall reinforcement using prolene via an inguinal incision. The patient made an uneventful recovery and was discharged well. The perioperative clinical events and technical strategies are discussed in the current report.
Innovations in hematopoietic stem-cell mobilization: a review of the novel CXCR4 inhibitor motixafortide
Authors: Crees Zachary D. , Rettig Michael P. , DiPersio John F.
Published: May 2023

Hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HCT) and stem-cell–based gene therapies rely on the ability to collect sufficient CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs), typically via peripheral blood mobilization. Commonly used HSPC mobilization regimens include single-agent granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), plerixafor, chemotherapy, or a combination of these agents. These regimens, however, frequently require multiple days of injections and leukapheresis procedures to collect adequate HSPCs for HCT (minimum = >2 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg; optimal = 5–6 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg). In addition, these regimens frequently yield suboptimal CD34+ HSPC numbers for HSPC-based gene-edited therapies, given the significantly higher HSPC number needed for successful gene-editing and manufacturing. Meanwhile, G-CSF is associated with common adverse events such as bone pain as well as an increased risk of rare but potentially life-threatening splenic rupture. Moreover, G-CSF is unsafe in patients with sickle-cell disease, a key patient population that may benefit from autologous HSPC-based gene-edited therapies, where it has been associated with unacceptable rates of serious vaso-occlusive and thrombotic events. Motixafortide is a novel CXCR4 inhibitor with extended in vivo activity (>48 h) that has been shown in preclinical and clinical trials to rapidly mobilize robust numbers of HSPCs in preparation for HCT, while preferentially mobilizing increased numbers of more primitive HSPCs by immunophenotyping and single-cell RNA expression profiling. In this review, we present a history of stem-cell mobilization and update of recent innovations in novel mobilization strategies with a specific focus on the development of motixafortide, a long-acting CXCR4 inhibitor, as a novel HSPC mobilizing agent.
Acute pancreatitis following SARS-CoV-2 infection: A case report
Authors: Choden Ugyen , Yangzom Sonam , Pradhan Geeta , wangchuk Pema
Published: May 2023

The novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 was first reported from Wuhan, China in December 2019. Since then, it has caused global crisis and it still continues to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Although it primarily involves respiratory system with symptoms ranging from mild to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome, extrapulmonary involvement including gastrointestinal manifestations is increasingly reported. There are few reported cases of acute pancreatitis following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 infection; however, little is known on true prevalence of acute pancreatitis or other extrapulmonary manifestations. More data and research on pathophysiology and organ-specific extrapulmonary manifestations would aid clinicians to monitor and recognise these wide spectra of manifestations so that organ-specific therapeutic strategies and management pathways could be developed. We report a case of acute pancreatitis in an otherwise asymptomatic severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 infection. He developed acute upper abdominal pain on day 13th of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 infection detection. Diagnosis of acute pancreatitis was made after his serum amylase level was raised by more than five times the normal and the computed tomography abdomen showed oedematous pancreas. He was successfully managed and discharged after 12 days of diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. On follow-up after 1 year, there were no recurrent attacks of pancreatitis. Our case highlights that acute pancreatitis can occur even in asymptomatic and milder form of COVID-19 and the onset of such complications could be delayed. Abdominal pain in COVID-19 should be carefully assessed because prompt diagnosis and management of acute pancreatitis in COVID-19 patient is crucial in preventing multi-organ dysfunction leading to subsequent morbidity and mortality.
Reduction in Thrombolytic Usage in Hemodialysis Patients Following a Quality Assurance Review: A Research Letter
Authors: Bau Jason T. , Younis Kokab , Gallagher Nathen , Harrison Tyrone G. , Leung Kelvin , Hemmett Juliya , Qirjazi Elena
Published: May 2023

Background:

Catheter malfunction in hemodialysis (HD) is increasingly managed with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA, alteplase), though evidence of improved catheter function is lacking.

Objective:

To evaluate the effect of a standardized rt-PA administration protocol on rt-PA usage, catheter function, and adverse events.

Design:

Observational quality improvement study.

Setting:

Single, urban, community HD unit in Calgary, Alberta.

Patients:

Patients treated with maintenance in-center HD through central venous catheter.

Outcomes:

Incidence of rt-PA usage, catheter interventions, hospitalizations, and measures of dialysis efficacy.

Methods:

The rt-PA protocol was designed following a consultative and iterative design period with dialysis shareholders, which included focusing on standard objective criteria before use and targeting use to the problematic lumen. Protocol implementation occurred over a 6-month period in 2021. Patient and dialysis data were collected through our regional dialysis electronic health record.

Results:

Implementation of the rt-PA protocol resulted in decreased rt-PA use (standardized per 100 dialysis sessions) compared to the preprotocol period (incidence rate ratio [IRR] of 0.57, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.34, 0.94]). Line procedures were also less frequent (IRR = 0.42, 95% CI: [0.18, 0.89]). Hospitalization rates and measures of dialysis efficacy were similar in both periods.

Limitations:

Small sample size with single dialysis center and short duration of follow-up.

Conclusions:

Implementation of a multidisciplinary designed rt-PA administration protocol decreased incident rt-PA usage
The effectiveness of wearable activity trackers for increasing physical activity and reducing sedentary time in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Shuang , Li Guangkai , Du Litao , Chen Si , Zhang Xianliang , He Qiang
Published: May 2023

Background

Traditional interventions such as education and counseling are successful in increasing physical activity (PA) participation, but are usually labor and resource intensive. Wearable activity trackers can objectively record PA and provide feedback to help users to achieve activity goals and are an increasingly popular tool among adults used to facilitate self-monitoring of PA. However, no reviews systematically explored the roles of wearable activity trackers in older populations.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus from inception to September 10, 2022. Randomized controlled trials were included. Two reviewers independently conducted study selection, data extraction, risk of bias, and certainty of evidence assessment. A random-effects model was used to evaluate the effect size.

Results

A total of 45 studies with 7144 participants were included. A wearable activity tracker was effective in increasing daily steps (standard mean differences (SMD) = 0.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.44, 0.75)), weekly moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) (SMD = 0.54, 95% CI (0.36, 0.72)), and total daily PA (SMD = 0.21, 95% CI (0.01, 0.40)) and reducing sedentary time (SMD = −0.10, 95% CI (−0.19, −0.01)). Subgroup analysis showed that the effectiveness of wearable activity trackers for daily steps was not influenced by participants and intervention features. However, wearable activity trackers seemed more effective in promoting MVPA of participant's age <70 than participant's age ≥70. In addition, wearable activity trackers incorporated with traditional intervention components (e.g. telephone counseling, goal setting, and self-monitoring) could better promote MVPA than alone use. Short-term interventions potentially achieve better MVPA increase than long-term.

Conclusion

This review showed that wearable activity trackers are an effective tool to increase PA for the old population and also favor reducing sedentary time. When used together with other interventions, wearable activity trackers can achieve better MVPA increase, especially in the short term. However, how to more effectively improve the effectiveness of wearable activity trackers is an important direction of future research.
Who can you blame? Trust in institutions and mobilization across regimes in Asia
Authors: Denton Ginger , Sanborn Howard
Published: May 2023

In this article, we consider the attitudinal motivations for political participation in countries across Asia. Specifically, we assess how trust in different types of institutional actors provides incentives for extra-legal actions, such as protest and the use of force, by analyzing the behaviors of individuals based upon their evaluations of representational and implementing institutions. As part of this analysis, we consider attitudes and action in both democracies and non-democracies, arguing for separate mechanisms to motivate unconventional political participation. Using Asian Barometer Survey data, we find that individuals living under democratic regimes are motivated to engage in more costly forms of participation in response to their assessments of trust in elected officials, while those individuals residing in non-democracies engage in these high-risk activities when they are dissatisfied with the performance of the police, civil service, and courts.
A Case Series of Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum With/Without Pneumothorax in COVID-19
Authors: James Crosby , Abdul Karim Amidou , Bodo Barisere , Abdalla Abdelmohaymin , Zamora Ana C. , Abraham James , Ganti Subramanya Shyam
Published: May 2023

With the previous worldwide initial coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a notable rise in spontaneous pneumomediastinum with/without pneumothorax (SPP) has been noted. Most cases were initially reported as complications secondary to barotrauma from mechanical ventilation (MV) with COVID-19. However, with the Delta strain, starting from December 2020, there have been multiple reports of SPP. The SPP is an uncommon complication outside use of assisted ventilation with either noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) or MV. COVID-19 has been linked to higher incidence of SPP without use of NIPPV or MV. We present a series of 5 cases with a polymerase chain reaction–confirmed COVID-19 diagnostic testing whose hospital course was complicated by SPP unrelated to the use of either NIPPV or MV.
Undergraduate Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Willingness to Receive COVID-19 Vaccines: A Survey of Convenience Sample in Namibia
Authors: Tomas Nestor , Munangatire Takaedza , Nampila Stefanus
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The global consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic cannot be overstated. Vaccinations are one of the leading strategies to protect against the virus, and it is likely that students’ understanding and desire to be vaccinated can be major factors in helping contain the pandemic. Nonetheless, no studies looked into the vaccine attitude, knowledge and willingness in Namibia.

Objectives

To assess and describe the association between knowledge, attitudes, and willingness of undergraduate students to receive COVID-19 vaccines in the school of education, nursing and economics and management science at the university campus in Namibia.

Methods

The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive study from 203 undergraduate university students using a convenience sampling. Data analysis was done using SPSSv28 and descriptive statistics were used to depict trends in data while a Pearson's correlation determined the relationship between the study variables.

Results

The data showed that 54.2% (1.54  ±  0.49) of the participants had adequate knowledge concerning the vaccine, while 57.1% and 58.6% had a negative outlook and were unwilling to get vaccinated. A moderate positive correlation was observed between attitudes and willingness to take COVID-19 vaccines ( r  =  .546, P  =<.001), while a negative relation existed between knowledge and attitudes ( r  =  −.017, P  =>.001).

Conclusions

This study has provided valuable insight into the knowledge, attitudes, and willingness of undergraduate students to receive COVID-19 vaccines. Despite more than half of the participants having appropriate knowledge, they had an unfavourable outlook toward COVID-19 vaccination. It is recommended that further studies focus on how factors such as incentives, religion and cultural values affect their desires to be vaccinated.
Retrospective Analysis of Management of Zygomatic Complex Fractures
Authors: Kambalimath Deepashri H. , Kambalimath Halaswamy V. , M.V.V. Satyanarayan , V. Ashok kumar , T.G. Ravikumar , Deepak R.M.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Zygomatic bone and its surrounding bony anatomy are essential for maintaining facial contour—cheek prominence and orbital integrity. Management of the zygomatic complex (ZMC) fractures are important in the maintenance of function and facial integrity.

Aim and Objectives

To analyze the incidence, aetiology, surgical management, and complications encountered in the treatment of ZMC fractures in our super-specialty hospital, and to compare the number and location of fixation points and surgical access in our patient cohort with the literature.

Materials and Method

Retrospective analysis of all operative cases (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation) of ZMC fractures over a 3-year period (2017-2021) were reviewed. Craniofacial maxillofacial trauma patient’s medical records were collected and out which only the ZMC fracture cases were reviewed. Only the medical records from the period from 2017 to 2021 were included. The parameters such as etiology, site of the ZMC fracture, type of fracture, associated injuries, clinical findings, treated with conservative or surgical intervention, type of incisions used, number of fixation used, and any complications encountered were reviewed and analyzed.

Results

Out of 428 cases of craniofacial injury, 96 cases were ZMC fractures, isolated ZMC fractures accounted for 43%, 33% with associated injuries, 13% isolated arch, while 11% accounted isolated infraorbital rim fracture. Most common clinical findings were subconjunctival ecchymosis (71%), flattening of cheek (39%), malocclusion (22%), and so on. Buccal sulcus incision (66%) was mainly used, followed by upper blepharoplasty incision (59%). Depending on degree of displacement of fracture 1-point fixation (8%), 2-point fixation (30%), or 3-point fixation (27%) was performed. About 33% of cases were conservatively managed and followed up on regular intervals. Lymph edema, infra orbital paresthesia, temporary blindness, diplopia, hemianopsia were some of the complications encountered which were managed successfully and followed up.

Conclusion

ZMC fractures are most commonly occurring midface fractures with variable etiologies. The most common ZMC fracture pattern was tripod type of fracture. Greater portion of the patient were treated with 2-point fixation. Most of the complications were due to the impact and velocity of trauma.
Environmental ethics and possibility studies
Authors: O’Brolcháin Fiachra
Published: May 2023

Possibilities are not neutral. Our engagement with the possible – the possibilities we value and the possibilities we ignore – will, to a degree, always be constrained by the moral universe we inhabit. Philosophy has always been concerned with normative questions – how should we live, what should we value? With growing inequality, rapid and potentially destructive technological development, and multiple environmental crises, the limits of traditional ethical and political philosophies are becoming apparent, particularly in areas focused on novel technologies and the environment. There can be an extremely fruitful dialogue between Possibility Studies and environmental ethics in examining the possibility of realising novel ethical frameworks to help us navigate the myriad problems of the world.
Cross-disciplinary Prevalence and Associated Factors for Work-Related Discomfort in Users of Ultrasonography: Implications for Sonography Professionals and Health Care Administrators
Authors: Roll Shawn C. , Fukumura Yoko E. , Sommerich Carolyn M. , Stigall-Weikle A. Nicole , Evans Kevin D.
Published: May 2023

Objective:

Work-related discomfort is a pervasive issue among ultrasonography users. The Sonography Work Systems (SWS) framework was constructed as a means of examining relationships within and across components of the sonography work systems, work processes, and work/worker outcomes. A database of ultrasonography users was established as a foundation for a longitudinal survey study to examine worker health and well-being and explore the most salient work systems and process factors associated with work-related discomfort.

Materials and Methods:

An estimated 100 000 unique ultrasonography users were invited to complete the online questionnaire through an e-mail campaign. Snowball sampling occurred through social media posts and encouragement for respondents to share the survey link with colleagues. The questionnaire included items that examined participant demographics, selected constructs from the SWS, and the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal discomfort, visual discomfort, and headaches. Individual and multi-factorial regression models were conducted to examine SWS factors associated with the likelihood of experiencing the three types of work-related discomfort.

Results:

A total of 3659 valid responses were included in the analysis, with 86% of respondents reporting that they regularly experienced musculoskeletal discomfort that they directly attributed to their work. About half (54.2%) of the respondents have engaged in sonography-related ergonomics training, and respondents indicated using adjustable equipment approximately 74% of the time. Workplace culture was rated as primarily positive, but respondents indicated that employers implement only two of seven commonly recommended ergonomic policies and procedures. Working in an organization with more policies, using adjustable equipment more frequently, taking more work breaks, engaging in a positive work culture, and minimizing interruptions to workflow were key factors associated with reduced likelihood of work-related discomfort.

Conclusion:

This study provides a new framework for examining and addressing factors that contribute to ultrasonography users’ experience of work-related discomfort. Despite increased participation in ergonomics training and the use of adjustable equipment, the prevalence of work-related discomfort remains high among ultrasonography users. The findings highlight the need for attention to be directed at organizational factors and work processes to identify and implement evidence-based solutions to improve the health and well-being of medical ultrasound users.
Lessons from COVID-19 in the management of acute respiratory failure
Authors: Crimi Claudia , Murphy Patrick , Patout Maxime , Sayas Javier , Winck Joao Carlos
Published: May 2023

Accumulated evidence supports the efficacy of noninvasive respiratory support therapies in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure, alleviating admissions to intensive care units. Noninvasive respiratory support strategies, including high-flow oxygen therapy, continuous positive airway pressureviamask or helmet and noninvasive ventilation, can be alternatives that may avoid the need for invasive ventilation. Alternating different noninvasive respiratory support therapies and introducing complementary interventions, like self-proning, may improve outcomes. Proper monitoring is warranted to ensure the efficacy of the techniques and to avoid complications while supporting transfer to the intensive care unit. This article reviews the latest evidence on noninvasive respiratory support therapies in COVID-19-related acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure.
Litter mixing promoted decomposition and altered microbial community in common bean root litter
Authors: Zhang Linlin , Li Jiawei , Wang Zhilin , Zhang Dinghong , Liu Hui , Wang Jia , Wu Fengzhi , Wang Xue , Zhou Xingang
Published: May 2023

Background

Decomposition of plant litter is a key driver of carbon and nutrient cycling in terrestrial ecosystems. Mixing litters of different plant species may alter the decomposition rate, but its effect on the microbial decomposer community in plant litter is not fully understood. Here, we tested the effects of mixing with maize (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (Linn.) Merr.] stalk litters on the decomposition and microbial decomposer communities of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) root litter at the early decomposition stage in a litterbag experiment.

Results

Mixing with maize stalk litter, soybean stalk litter, and both of these litters increased the decomposition rate of common bean root litter at 56 day but not 14 day after incubation. Litter mixing also increased the decomposition rate of the whole liter mixture at 56 day after incubation. Amplicon sequencing found that litter mixing altered the composition of bacterial (at 56 day after incubation) and fungal communities (at both 14 and 56 day after incubation) in common bean root litter. Litter mixing increased the abundance and alpha diversity of fungal communities in common bean root litter at 56 day after incubation. Particularly, litter mixing stimulated certain microbial taxa, such as Fusarium, Aspergillus and Stachybotrys spp. In addition, a pot experiment with adding litters in the soil showed that litter mixing promoted growth of common bean seedlings and increased soil nitrogen and phosphorus contents.

Conclusions

This study showed that litter mixing can promote the decomposition rate and cause shifts in microbial decomposer communities, which may positively affect crop growth.
The upper airway parameters: the potential diagnostic clues for congenital intrathoracic lesions
Authors: Song Shijing , Wang Jingjing , Wang Li , Hou Chenxiao , Wu Qingqing
Published: May 2023

Background

The diagnosis of congenital intrathoracic lesions still has limitations. The airway development was influenced by intrathoracic factors. Whether the diagnostic value of the upper airway parameters in congenital intrathoracic lesions has not been confirmed.

Objectives

We aimed to compare fetal upper airway parameters between normal fetuses and fetuses with intrathoracic lesions, and we tried to verify its diagnostic value in intrathoracic lesions.

Methods

This was an observational case–control study. In the control group, 77 women were screened at 20–24 weeks’ gestational age, 23 were screened at 24–28 weeks’ gestational age, and 27 were screened at 28–34 weeks’ gestational age. In the case group, 41 cases were enrolled (6 cases of intrathoracic bronchopulmonary sequestration, 22 of congenital pulmonary airway malformations, and 13 of congenital diaphragmatic hernia). Fetal upper airway parameters (tracheal width, the narrowest lumen width, and width of the subglottic cavity and laryngeal vestibule) were measured using ultrasound equipment. The correlations between fetal upper airway parameters and gestational age, and the differences in fetal upper airway parameters between cases and controls, were analyzed. The standardized airway paraments were acquired, and their potential diagnostic value for congenital intrathoracic lesions were analyzed.

Results

The fetal upper airway parameters of both groups were positively correlated with the gestational age: The control group, tracheal width (R2 = 0.569,p < 0.001), narrowest lumen width (R2 = 0.429,p < 0.001), subglottic cavity width (R2 = 0.551,p < 0.001), laryngeal vestibule width (R2 = 0.349,p < 0.001). The case group (tracheal widthR2 = 0.474,p < 0.001) narrowest lumen width (R2 = 0.425,p < 0.001), subglottic cavity width (R2 = 0.623,p < 0.001), laryngeal vestibule width (R2 = 0.347,p < 0.001). Fetal upper airway parameters of the cases group were smaller than those of the controls group. The tracheal width in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia was the smallest among the other case groups studied. The standardized tracheal width has the best diagnostic value for congenital intrathoracic lesions in the standardized airway paraments (the area under the ROC curve was 0.894), and has a high diagnostic value for congenital pulmonary airway malformations and congenital diaphragmatic hernia (the area under the ROC curve was 0.911 and 0.992, respectively).

Conclusion

Fetal upper airway parameters differ between normal fetuses and fetuses with intrathoracic lesions, and might offer potential diagnostic clues for congenital intrathoracic lesions.
Repetitive and restricted behaviors and interests in autism spectrum disorder: relation to individual characteristics and mental health problems
Authors: Jasim Sara , Perry Adrienne
Published: May 2023

Background

Although repetitive and restricted behaviors and interests (RRBIs) may interfere with well-being and functioning in autistic individuals, research on their relation to sex, age, cognitive level, and mental health problems remains unclear. Much of the research to date has used broad categorizations rather than specific categorizations of RRBIs to examine the difference in RRBIs between individuals. The purpose of this study was to explore, in different groups of individuals, the presence of specific RRBI subtypes, and to examine the association of specific RRBI subtypes with symptoms of internalizing and externalizing behaviors.

Methods

Secondary data analyses were conducted using the Simons Simplex Collection dataset, which included 2,758 participants (aged 4 to 18). Families of autistic children completed the Repetitive Behavior Scale–Revised (RBS-R) and the Child Behavior Checklist.

Results

Across all RBS-R subtypes, results revealed no sex differences. Older children showed higher rates of Ritualistic/Sameness behaviors than younger children and adolescents, whereas younger and older children showed more Stereotypy than adolescents. Additionally, lower cognitive level groups showed higher rates of RBS-R subtypes except for Ritualistic/Sameness. After controlling for age and cognitive level, RBS-R subtypes accounted for a substantial amount of variance in internalizing and externalizing behaviors (23% and 25%, respectively). Specifically, Ritualistic/Sameness and Self-Injurious Behavior both predicted internalizing and externalizing behaviors, whereas Stereotypy only predicted internalizing behavior.

Conclusions

These findings have key clinical implications that emphasize not only the consideration of sex, age, and cognitive level, but also specific RRBIs and co-occurring mental health problems, when assessing for ASD and designing individualized interventions.
Unintended consequences of communicating rapid COVID-19 vaccine policy changes– a qualitative study of health policy communication in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Vernon-Wilson Elizabeth , Tetui Moses , Nanyonjo Agnes , Adil Maisha , Bala Arthi , Nelson David , Sayers Emma , Waite Nancy , Grindrod Kelly
Published: May 2023

Background

The success of the COVID-19 vaccination roll-out depended on clear policy communication and guidance to promote and facilitate vaccine uptake. The rapidly evolving pandemic circumstances led to many vaccine policy amendments. The impact of changing policy on effective vaccine communication and its influence in terms of societal response to vaccine promotion are underexplored; this qualitative research addresses that gap within the extant literature.

Methods

Policy communicators and community leaders from urban and rural Ontario participated in semi-structured interviews (N = 29) to explore their experiences of COVID-19 vaccine policy communication. Thematic analysis was used to produce representative themes.

Results

Analysis showed rapidly changing policy was a barrier to smooth communication and COVID-19 vaccine roll-out. Continual amendments had unintended consequences, stimulating confusion, disrupting community outreach efforts and interrupting vaccine implementation. Policy changes were most disruptive to logistical planning and community engagement work, including community outreach, communicating eligibility criteria, and providing translated vaccine information to diverse communities.

Conclusions

Vaccine policy changes that allow for prioritized access can have the unintended consequence of limiting communities’ access to information that supports decision making. Rapidly evolving circumstances require a balance between adjusting policy and maintaining simple, consistent public health messages that can readily be translated into action. Information access is a factor in health inequality that needs addressing alongside access to vaccines.
Coexistence of TSH-secreting adenoma and primary hypothyroidism: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Ren Xiaolu , Wang Xu , Chen Ge , Liu Xiaohai , Guo Hongchuan , Li Mingchu
Published: May 2023

Background

Thyrotropin-secreting adenoma (TSHoma) is the least common type of pituitary adenoma, these patients often present with symptoms of hyperthyroidism. When TSHoma patients combined with autoimmune hypothyroidism, it is critically difficult to diagnose for the specific confusion in the results of thyroid function test.

Case presentation

One middle-aged male patient was presented with a sellar tumor on cranial MRI for headache symptoms. After hospitalization, a significant increase in thyrotropin (TSH) was revealed by the endocrine tests, while free thyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) decreased, and the diffuse destruction of thyroid gland was revealed by thyroid ultrasound. Based on the endocrine test results, the patient was diagnosed as autoimmune hypothyroidism. After the multidisciplinary discussion, the pituitary adenoma was removed by endoscopic transnasal surgery, until the tumor was completely excised, for which TSHoma was revealed by postoperative pathology. A significant decrease of TSH was revealed by the postoperative thyroid function tests, the treatment for autoimmune hypothyroidism was conducted. After 20 months of follow-up, the thyroid function of patient had been improved significantly.

Conclusion

When the thyroid function test results of patients with TSHoma are difficult to interpret, the possibility of combined primary thyroid disease should be considered. TSHoma combined with autoimmune hypothyroidism is rare, which is difficult to diagnose. The multidisciplinary collaborative treatment could help to improve the outcomes of treatment.
Late postpartum depression and associated factors: community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Wedajo Lema Fikadu , Alemu Solomon Seyife , Jarso Mohammedamin Hajure , Golge Aman Mamo , Dirirsa Dejene Edosa
Published: May 2023

Background

Late postpartum depression is the presence of depressive symptoms beyond the early postpartum period and is a significant mental health problem that has a devastating impact on mothers, infants, partners, family members, the healthcare system, and the world’s economy. However, there is limited information regarding this problem in Ethiopia.

Objective

To assess the prevalence of late postpartum depression and associated factors.

Method

the community-based cross-sectional study was employed among 479 postpartum mothers in Arba Minch town from May 21 to June 21, 2022. The pre-tested face-to-face interviewer administered a structured questionnaire used to collect the data. A bivariate and multivariable analysis was done using a binary logistic regression model to identify factors associated with late postpartum depression. Both crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% CI were calculated, and a p-value of < 0.05 was used to declare statistically significant factors.

Result

The prevalence of late postpartum depression was 22.98% (95% CI: 19.16, 26.80). Husband Khat use (AOR = 2.64; 95% CI: 1.18, 5.91), partner dissatisfaction with the gender of the baby (AOR = 2.53; 95% CI: 1.22, 5.24), short inter-delivery interval (AOR = 6.80; 95% CI: 3.34, 13.84), difficulty to meet husband sexual need (AOR = 3.21; 95% CI: 1.62, 6.37), postpartum intimate partner violence (AOR = 4.08; 95% CI: 1.95, 8.54), and low social support (AOR = 2.50; 95% CI: 1.25, 4.50) were significantly associated factors at p-value < 0.05.

Conclusion

Overall, 22.98% of mothers suffered from late postpartum depression. Therefore, based on the identified factors, the Ministry of Health, Zonal Health Departments, and other responsible agencies should establish effective strategies to overcome this problem.
The mediating effect of coping styles between self-compassion and body image disturbance in young breast cancer survivors: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhu Fei , Liu Chunlei , Zhang Wan , Qiang Wanmin , Yin Xiaoping , Lu Qian
Published: May 2023

Background

Young breast cancer survivors with body image disturbance have poor quality of life. Self-compassion and different coping styles can influence their body image. The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between self-compassion, coping styles, and body image disturbance, and examined the mediation role of coping styles between self-compassion and body image disturbance among young breast cancer survivors in China.

Methods

In the cross-sectional study, a total of 310 young women with breast cancer were assessed on self-compassion, coping styles, and body image disturbance by self-reported questionnaires in China. Spearman’s correlation was used to test the links between variables and to verify the indirect effects between variables by constructing a structural equation model.

Results

There were correlations between self-compassion, different coping styles, and body image disturbance. Confrontation, avoidance, and acceptance-resignation coping had significant mediation effects on the association between self-compassion and body image disturbance. The mediation effects of confrontation coping were greater than avoidance, and acceptance-resignation coping.

Conclusions

In this study, different coping styles acted as mediators between self-compassion and body image disturbance, providing support for further understanding the mechanism between self-compassion and body image disturbance, and developing comprehensive interventions for body image disturbance. Oncology nurses should pay attention to the breast cancer survivors’ self-compassion and coping styles and encourage them to adopt adaptive coping strategies, which can reduce body image disturbance.
What drives the adoption of online health communities? An empirical study from patient-centric perspective
Authors: Zhang Qianyao , Zhang Runtong , Lu Xinyi , Zhang Xijing
Published: May 2023

Background

Online health communities (OHCs) provide platforms for patients to seek advice from physicians and receive professional suggestions online. It can improve the efficiency of patients’ diagnosis of simple diseases and alleviate hospital congestion. However, few empirical studies have comprehensively explored the factors influencing patients’ intention to use OHCs through objective data. This study aims to fill this gap by identifying key factors that influence patients’ acceptance of OHCs and proposing effective ways to promote the applications of OHCs in China.

Methods

Based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Usage of Technology (UTAUT), extended with additional constructs identified with patients’ information demands in OHCs, this study developed a research model and proposed nine hypotheses. An online survey involving 783 valid responses was conducted in China to collect data to validate the proposed model. Confirmatory factor analysis and partial least squares (PLS) path model were conducted for instrument validation and hypothesis testing.

Results

Price value, eHealth literacy, and performance expectancy are the most prominent constructs in the study context. Interestingly, relation quality was also found to have a significant positive relationship with behavioral intention.

Conclusions

Based on these findings, OHC operators need to create a user-friendly platform, improve information quality, set reasonable prices, and establish consummate security systems. Physicians and related organizations can raise awareness and assist patients in developing the skills to appropriately comprehend and utilize information in OHCs. This study contributes to both technology adoption theory and practice.