bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptions and attitudes around perinatal mental health in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan: a systematic review of qualitative data
Authors: Insan Nafisa , Weke Anthony , Rankin Judith , Forrest Simon
Published: April 2022

Background

Perinatal mental health (PMH) is a worldwide public health issue crossing cultural boundaries. However, the prevalence of PMH conditions vary considerably. These disparities stem in part from poor understanding and stigma surrounding PMH which hinder pregnant women from seeking mental health care and may exacerbate their conditions. Bangladesh, India and Pakistan are South Asian countries with a higher burden of PMH conditions than in the Global North-West and very different social and cultural norms around gender and mental health. The aim of this systematic review (PROSPERO Ref: CRD42020167903) was to identify, synthesise and appraise the available literature on perceptions and attitudes of perinatal (pregnant and postpartum) women, their families and healthcare providers surrounding PMH in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan.

Methods

Five electronic databases, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus and Web of science, and grey literature were searched using predefined search terms. Qualitative or quantitative articles with a qualitative component reporting perceptions and attitudes surrounding PMH in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan were eligible for inclusion, if published in English between January 2000 and January 2021. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Qualitative Research Checklist and Newcastle–Ottawa Scale for cross-sectional studies were used to assess study quality. Findings were synthesised using thematic synthesis, as described by Thomas and Harden 2008.

Results

Eight studies were included. Five overarching themes comprising 17 sub-categories were identified. These descriptive themes were: perceived causes of PMH, perceived symptoms of PMH, perceptions of motherhood, accessing PMH care and emotional sharing and coping strategies. Sociocultural expectations underpin many of the themes identified in this review including the importance of familial and societal causes of PMH, emphasis on physical symptoms, sacredness of motherhood, lack of awareness, stigma, shame, limited resources allocated for mental health and lack of emotional sharing.

Conclusions

There is a complex range of perceptions and attitudes around PMH which influence women’s experiences and access to PMH care. These findings will inform policy and practice through targeted interventions to tackle stigmatising attitudes and increasing education and training for healthcare providers.
The development and feasibility of a group-based household-level intervention to improve preconception nutrition in Nawalparasi district of Nepal
Authors: Diamond-Smith Nadia , Mitchell Ashley , Cornell Alia , Dahal Minakshi , Gopalakrishnan Lakshmi , Johnson Mallory , Weiser Sheri , Puri Mahesh
Published: April 2022

Background

In a setting such as Nepal with malnutrition and persistent poor maternal and infant health outcomes, developing interventions to improve the nutrition of preconception and pregnant women is essential.

Objective

The objectives of this paper are to describe the full design process of an intervention for newly married women, their husbands, and mothers-in-law to improve maternal nutrition and gender norms, and findings from the feasibility and acceptability pilot.

Methods

In this paper we describe the three phases of the design of an intervention in rural Nepal. We first conducted a mixed methods formative phase which included in depth interviews with newly married women, their husbands and mothers-in-law (N=60) and a longitudinal study for 18 months with 200 newly married women. We then designed of a household level, group, intervention, in close partnership with community members. Finally, we conducted a pilot intervention with 90 participants and collected both pre/post survey data and in-depth qualitative interviews with a subset (N= 30). All participants from all phases of the study lived in Nawalparasi district of Nepal. Qualitative data was analyzed using a thematic analysis, with inductive and deductive themes and quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Our formative work highlighted lack of awareness about nutrition, and how women eating last, limited mobility, household and community inequitable gender norms and poor household-level communication contributed to low quality diets. Thus we designed Sumadhur, an intervention that brought groups of households (newly married wife, husband, and mother-in-law) together weekly for four months to strengthen relationships and gain knowledge through interactive content. We found Sumadhur to be highly feasible and acceptable by all respondents, with most (83%) attending 80% of sessions or more and 99% reporting that they would like it to continue. Pre/post surveys showed a decrease in the proportion of women eating last and increase in knowledge about nutrition in preconception and pregnancy. Qualitative interviews suggested that respondents felt it made large impacts on their lives, in terms of strengthening relationships and trust, understanding each other, and changing behaviors.

Conclusions

We show how a designing an intervention in close partnership with the target recipients and local stakeholders can lead to an intervention that is able to target complicated and culturally held practices and beliefs, positively benefit health and wellbeing, and that is very well received.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04383847, registered 05/12/2020
Text-messaging to promote smoking cessation among individuals with opioid use disorder: quantitative and qualitative evaluation
Authors: Shankar Divya , Borrelli Belinda , Cobb Vinson , Quintiliani Lisa M. , Palfai Tibor , Weinstein Zoe , Bulekova Katia , Kathuria Hasmeena
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) who smoke cigarettes have high tobacco-related comorbidities, lack of access to tobacco treatment, lack of inclusion in smoking cessation trials, and remain understudied in the mobile health field. The purpose of this study was to understand patients’ with OUD perceptions of 1) text message programs to promote smoking cessation, 2) content and features to include in such a program, and 3) how message content should be framed.

Methods

From December 2018 to February 2019, we recruited 20 hospitalized individuals with a concurrent diagnosis of OUD and tobacco dependence at Boston Medical Center (BMC), the largest safety-net hospital in New England. We surveyed participants’ cell phone use, their interest in a text message program to promote smoking cessation, and their reactions to and ratings of a series of 26 prototype texts. We then conducted open-ended interviews to elicit content and suggestions on how text message interventions can improve motivation to increase smoking cessation among individuals with OUD. The interviews also included open-ended inquiries exploring message ratings and message content, inquiries about preferences for message duration, frequency, and personalization.

Results

Quantitative analysis of questionnaire data indicated that the majority of participants owned a cell phone (95%, 19/20). Most participants (60%, 12/20) reported that they would be interested or very interested in receiving text messages about smoking cessation. Text messages about the health benefits of quitting were rated the highest among various categories of text messages. Qualitative analysis showed that almost every participant felt that text messages would help motivate smoking cessation given the support it would provide.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that individuals with OUD who smoke cigarettes perceive that a text message program designed to promote smoking cessation would motivate and support smoking cessation efforts. Our findings demonstrate that such a program is feasible as participants own cell phones, frequently send and receive text messages, and have unlimited text message plans. Findings from this study provide valuable insight into content and features to include when developing text message programs to address barriers to smoking cessation in individuals who have OUD and smoke cigarettes.
Citizen science in monitoring food environments: a qualitative collective case study of stakeholders’ experiences during the Local Environment Action on Food project in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Aylward Breanne L. , Milford Krista M. , Storey Kate E. , Nykiforuk Candace I. J. , Raine Kim D.
Published: April 2022

Background

Citizen science bears potential to build a comprehensive view of global food environments and create a broader discussion about how to improve them. Despite its potential, citizen science has not been fully utilised in food environment research. Thus, we sought to explore stakeholders’ experiences of the Local Environment Action on Food (LEAF) project, a community-based intervention that employs a citizen science approach to monitoring food environments.

Methods

We used a qualitative collective case study design to explore citizen science through the LEAF process in seven communities in Alberta, Canada. Data generating strategies included semi-structured interviews with citizen scientists (n = 26), document review of communities’ Mini Nutrition Report Cards (n = 7), and researcher observation. Data were analyzed in a multi-phase process, using Charmaz’s constant comparison analysis strategy.

Results

Analysis revealed two main themes: relationship building and process factors. Communities used three interconnected strategies, engaging the right people, treading lightly, and reaching a consensus, to navigate the vital but challenging relationship building process. Process factors, which were influences on the LEAF process and relationship building, included the local context, flexibility in the LEAF process, and turnover among LEAF community groups.

Conclusion

Citizen science through the LEAF project supported the creation and application of food environment evidence: it enabled residents to collect and interpret local food environment data, develop realistic recommendations for change, and provided them with an evidence-based advocacy tool to support the implementation of these recommendations. We recommend a web application that enables independent community food environment assessments. Such a tool could stimulate and sustain citizen involvement in food environment efforts, helping to build the necessary evidence base and promote the creation of healthy food environments.
Tracking the impacts of climate change on human health via indicators: lessons from the Lancet Countdown
Authors: Di Napoli Claudia , McGushin Alice , Romanello Marina , Ayeb-Karlsson Sonja , Cai Wenjia , Chambers Jonathan , Dasgupta Shouro , Escobar Luis E. , Kelman Ilan , Kjellstrom Tord , Kniveton Dominic , Liu Yang , Liu Zhao , Lowe Rachel , Martinez-Urtaza Jaime , McMichael Celia , Moradi-Lakeh Maziar , Murray Kris A. , Rabbaniha Mahnaz , Semenza Jan C. , Shi Liuhua , Tabatabaei Meisam , Trinanes Joaquin A. , Vu Bryan N. , Brimicombe Chloe , Robinson Elizabeth J.
Published: April 2022

Background

In the past decades, climate change has been impacting human lives and health via extreme weather and climate events and alterations in labour capacity, food security, and the prevalence and geographical distribution of infectious diseases across the globe. Climate change and health indicators (CCHIs) are workable tools designed to capture the complex set of interdependent interactions through which climate change is affecting human health. Since 2015, a novel sub-set of CCHIs, focusing on climate change impacts, exposures, and vulnerability indicators (CCIEVIs) has been developed, refined, and integrated by Working Group 1 of the “Lancet Countdown: Tracking Progress on Health and Climate Change”, an international collaboration across disciplines that include climate, geography, epidemiology, occupation health, and economics.

Discussion

This research in practice article is a reflective narrative documenting how we have developed CCIEVIs as a discrete set of quantifiable indicators that are updated annually to provide the most recent picture of climate change’s impacts on human health. In our experience, the main challenge was to define globally relevant indicators that also have local relevance and as such can support decision making across multiple spatial scales. We found a hazard, exposure, and vulnerability framework to be effective in this regard. We here describe how we used such a framework to define CCIEVIs based on both data availability and the indicators’ relevance to climate change and human health. We also report on how CCIEVIs have been improved and added to, detailing the underlying data and methods, and in doing so provide the defining quality criteria for Lancet Countdown CCIEVIs.

Conclusions

Our experience shows that CCIEVIs can effectively contribute to a world-wide monitoring system that aims to track, communicate, and harness evidence on climate-induced health impacts towards effective intervention strategies. An ongoing challenge is how to improve CCIEVIs so that the description of the linkages between climate change and human health can become more and more comprehensive.
Relationship between socio-demographic correlates and human development index with physical activity and sedentary time in a cross-sectional multicenter study
Authors: Ferrari Gerson , Farías-Valenzuela Claudio , Guzmán-Habinger Juan , Drenowatz Clemens , Marques Adilson , Kovalskys Irina , Gómez Georgina , Rigotti Attilio , Cortés Lilia Yadira , Yépez García Martha Cecilia , Pareja Rossina G. , Herrera-Cuenca Marianella , Marconcin Priscila , Chávez Javiera Lobos , Fisberg Mauro
Published: April 2022

Background

Socio-demographic correlates and human development index (HDI) are associated with self-reported physical activity, but only a few studies have focused on device-measured physical activity and sedentary time in Latin America. We examined the relationship between socio-demographic correlates and HDI with physical activity and sedentary time in a cross-sectional study.

Methods

We based our analyses on 2522 (53.1% women; 18–65 years [mean age 38.3 years]) adults drawn from the eight Latin America countries. Physical activity (light, moderate, vigorous, and moderate-to-vigorous intensity and steps) and sedentary time were assessed using Actigraph GT3X + accelerometers. Sex, age, and race/ethnicity were self-reported. The HDI country information was obtained from the United Nations Development Program.

Results

For the age, ethnicity, vigorous physical activity and steps/day, there were significant differences between high and very high HDI countries. Women and younger age presented lower sedentary time than men and older. In moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, we found lower duration in women (-13.4 min/week), younger age (-0.1 min/week), and white/caucasian (-2.7 min/week) than men, older ages and mixed ethnicity. Women (-1266.5 steps/week) and very high HDI (-847.3 steps/week) presented lower steps than men and high HDI. Black (2853.9 steps/week), other (1785.4 steps/week), and white/caucasian ethnicity (660.6 steps/week) showed higher steps than mixed ethnicity.

Conclusions

Different socio-demographic correlates are associated with physical activity intensity; however, HDI is associated with vigorous physical activity and steps in the Latin American region, which can in turn guide policies to promote physical activity in the region.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.GovNCT02226627. Retrospectively registered on August 27, 2014.
One-stage efficacy of single tract minimally invasive ECIRS in the improved prone frog split-leg position for staghorn stones
Authors: Liu Changyi , Zheng Biqiong , Wen Jinfeng , Mao Houping , Jiang Tao , Chen Qin , Chen Wenwei , Zhang Hua , He Yanfeng , Gao Rui
Published: April 2022

Objective

To explore the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of single tract minimally invasive endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (stmECIRS) in the improved prone frog split-leg position for staghorn stones.

Method

A total of 83 patients with staghorn stones were retrospectively reviewed between January 2018 and June 2021. According to surgical procedure and position, patients were divided into a group of single tract minimally invasive percutaneous nephroscopy (stmPNL) in the prone position and a group of stmECIRS in the improved prone frog split-leg position (turned to the prone position after preset the flexible ureteroscope sheath in lithotomy position, meanwhile, bend both hips and knees to be frog abduction). Demographic characteristics, laboratory tests, stone characters, surgical information, stone-free rate (SFR), and perioperative complications were observed and analyzed.

Results

There were no significant differences in demographic characteristics, changes level of Scr and Hb, stone size, radiation density, length of hospital stay, and operation time between the two groups. One-stage SFR in the stmECIRS group was significantly higher than that in the stmPNL group (84.4% vs. 57.9%) (P = 0.007), only 2 patients required blood transfusion after surgery (P = 0.862), and other postoperative complications were not statistically significant (P = 0.345).

Conclusions

StmECIRS in improved prone frog split-leg position has a higher one-stage SFR than stmPNL for staghorn renal stones, and without complications increased, which is a safe, efficient and feasible treatment.
Quality of life impact and recovery after ureteroscopy and stent insertion: insights from daily surveys in STENTS
Authors: Harper Jonathan D. , Desai Alana C. , Antonelli Jodi A. , Tasian Gregory E. , Ziemba Justin B. , Al-Khalidi Hussein R. , Lai H. Henry , Maalouf Naim M. , Reese Peter P. , Wessells Hunter B. , Kirkali Ziya , Scales Charles D. ,   NIDDK Urinary Stone Disease Research Network (USDRN)
Published: April 2022

Background

Our objective was to describe day-to-day evolution and variations in patient-reported stent-associated symptoms (SAS) in the STudy to Enhance uNderstanding of sTent-associated Symptoms (STENTS), a prospective multicenter observational cohort study, using multiple instruments with conceptual overlap in various domains.

Methods

In a nested cohort of the STENTS study, the initial 40 participants having unilateral ureteroscopy (URS) and stent placement underwent daily assessment of self-reported measures using the Brief Pain Inventory short form, Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System measures for pain severity and pain interference, the Urinary Score of the Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire, and Symptoms of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Research Network Symptom Index. Pain intensity, pain interference, urinary symptoms, and bother were obtained preoperatively, daily until stent removal, and at postoperative day (POD) 30.

Results

The median age was 44 years (IQR 29,58), and 53% were female. The size of the dominant stone was 7.5 mm (IQR 5,11), and 50% were located in the kidney. There was consistency among instruments assessing similar concepts. Pain intensity and urinary symptoms increased from baseline to POD 1 with apparent peaks in the first 2 days, remained elevated with stent in situ, and varied widely among individuals. Interference due to pain, and bother due to urinary symptoms, likewise demonstrated high individual variability.

Conclusions

This first study investigating daily SAS allows for a more in-depth look at the lived experience after URS and the impact on quality of life. Different instruments measuring pain intensity, pain interference, and urinary symptoms produced consistent assessments of patients’ experiences. The overall daily stability of pain and urinary symptoms after URS was also marked by high patient-level variation, suggesting an opportunity to identify characteristics associated with severe SAS after URS.
Does ethnicity affect pain management for people with advanced disease? A mixed methods cross-national systematic review of ‘very high’ Human Development Index English-speaking countries
Authors: Clarke Gemma , Chapman Emma , Crooks Jodie , Koffman Jonathan , Ahmed Shenaz , Bennett Michael I.
Published: April 2022

Background

Racial disparities in pain management have been observed in the USA since the 1990s in settings such as the emergency department and oncology. However, the palliative care context is not well described, and little research has focused outside of the USA or on advanced disease. This review takes a cross-national approach to exploring pain management in advanced disease for people of different racial and ethnic groups.

Methods

Mixed methods systematic review. The primary outcome measure was differences in receiving pain medication between people from different racial and ethnic groups. Five electronic databases were searched. Two researchers independently assessed quality using JBI checklists, weighted evidence, and extracted data. The quantitative findings on the primary outcome measure were cross-tabulated, and a thematic analysis was undertaken on the mixed methods studies. Themes were formulated into a conceptual/thematic matrix. Patient representatives from UK ethnically diverse groups were consulted. PRISMA 2020 guidelines were followed.

Results

Eighteen papers were included in the primary outcome analysis. Three papers were rated ‘High’ weight of evidence, and 17/18 (94%) were based in the USA. Ten of the eighteen (56%) found no significant difference in the pain medication received between people of different ethnic groups. Forty-six papers were included in the mixed methods synthesis; 41/46 (89%) were based in the USA. Key themes: Patients from different ethnically diverse groups had concerns about tolerance, addiction and side effects. The evidence also showed: cultural and social doctor-patient communication issues; many patients with unmet pain management needs; differences in pain assessment by racial group, and two studies found racial and ethnic stereotyping.

Conclusions

There was not enough high quality evidence to draw a conclusion on differences in receiving pain medication for people with advanced disease from different racial and ethnic groups. The mixed methods findings showed commonalities in fears about pain medication side effects, tolerance and addiction across diverse ethnic groups. However, these fears may have different foundations and are differently prioritised according to culture, faith, educational and social factors. There is a need to develop culturally competent pain management to address doctor-patient communication issues and patients’ pain management concerns.

Trial registration

PROSPERO-CRD42020167890.
Opening up a tailored tutor qualification program for medical students to other healthcare students – a mixed-method study
Authors: Homberg A. , Ziegler S. , Mahler C. , Schultz J. H. , Loukanova S. , Hundertmark J.
Published: April 2022

Background

Peer-led tutorials are widely used in medical education to promote practical skills acquisition and support faculty staff. Typically, student tutors are custom trained for this specific task. We investigated whether opening up an existing medical tutor qualification program to other degree programs is successful in terms of acceptance among students, acquisition of tutor-specific and interprofessional competencies, and which factors contribute to success or failure.

Methods

We developed a two-day tutor qualification program and conducted it annually from 2016 to 2020 with medical and other healthcare students. At the end of each course, we administered a written survey in which the participants rated the following items: their attitudes towards interprofessional learning (using the UWE-IP-D Interprofessional Learning Scale), the interprofessional learning setting, the teaching approach, and their competency acquisition (each on a five-point Likert scale; 1 = strongly agree, 5 = strongly disagree). Furthermore, we assessed participants’ qualitative feedback in free-text fields and performed inductive content analyses.

Results

The study participation rate was high (response rate 97%; medical students: n = 75; healthcare students: n = 22). Participants stated high levels of competency acquisition (total M = 1.59, individual items’ M’s ranging from 1.20 to 2.05) and even higher satisfaction with the teaching approach (total M = 1.28, individual items’ M’s ranging from 1.43 to 1.05). Overall satisfaction with the training was M = 1.22; SD = 0.58. No significant differences in ratings were found between the student groups. The qualitative results showed that students appreciated the interprofessional setting and experienced it as enriching. The most positive feedback was found in didactics/teaching methods on role-plays and group work; most suggestions for improvement were found in the area of structure and organisation on breaks and time management.

Conclusions

Opening up an existing medical tutor qualification program to other student groups can be seen as fruitful to teach not only tutor-related aspects but also interprofessional competencies. The results demonstrate the importance of detailed planning that considers group composition and contextual conditions and provides interactive teaching methods to promote interprofessional experiences. This study offers important information about prerequisites and methodological implementation that could be important for the interprofessional redesign of existing training programs.
The UK Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and diet, physical activity, and sleep during the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from eight longitudinal population surveys
Authors: Wielgoszewska Bożena , Maddock Jane , Green Michael J. , Di Gessa Giorgio , Parsons Sam , Griffith Gareth J. , Croft Jazz , Stevenson Anna J. , Booth Charlotte , Silverwood Richard J. , Bann David , Patalay Praveetha , Hughes Alun D. , Chaturvedi Nishi , Howe Laura D. , Fitzsimons Emla , Katikireddi Srinivasa Vittal , Ploubidis George B.
Published: April 2022

Background

In March 2020, the UK implemented the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (furlough) to minimise job losses. Our aim was to investigate associations between furlough and diet, physical activity, and sleep during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We analysed data on 25,092 participants aged 16–66 years from eight UK longitudinal studies. Changes in employment, including being furloughed, were based on employment status before and during the first lockdown. Health behaviours included fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity, and sleep. Study-specific estimates obtained using modified Poisson regression, adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics and pre-pandemic health and health behaviours, were statistically pooled using random effects meta-analysis. Associations were also stratified by sex, age, and education.

Results

Across studies, between 8 and 25% of participants were furloughed. Compared to those who remained working, furloughed workers were slightly less likely to be physically inactive (RR = 0.85; [95% CI 0.75–0.97]; I2 = 59%) and did not differ overall with respect to low fruit and vegetable consumption or atypical sleep, although findings for sleep were heterogenous (I2 = 85%). In stratified analyses, furlough was associated with lower fruit and vegetable consumption among males (RR = 1.11; [1.01–1.22]; I2 = 0%) but not females (RR = 0.84; [0.68–1.04]; I2 = 65%). Considering changes in quantity, furloughed workers were more likely than those who remained working to report increases in fruit and vegetable consumption, exercise, and hours of sleep.

Conclusions

Those furloughed exhibited similar health behaviours to those who remained in employment during the initial stages of the pandemic. There was little evidence to suggest that adoption of such social protection policies in the post-pandemic recovery period and during future economic crises had adverse effects on population health behaviours.
First glanders cases detected in Nepal underscore the need for surveillance and border controls
Authors: P Koirala , M Maharjan , S Manandhar , KR Pandey , T Deshayes , G Wang , MA Valvano , K Laroucau
Published: April 2022

Background

Glanders is a transmissible zoonotic disease caused by Burkholderia mallei that infects equids and humans. No glanders cases in equids were reported so far in Nepal.

Case presentation

Following suspected glanders in animals with clinical signs in different regions in Nepal, serum samples were tested by CFT, ELISA and Luminex® tests. Two horses and a mule tested positive for glanders by all tests, while two other equids only tested positive by ELISA and Luminex®. Analysis of swabs and pus samples by a PCR system targeting B. mallei confirmed the presence of the bacterium in the samples collected from the 3 equids that yielded positive results in all serological tests. Genotyping of the three PCR positive samples with a SNP-based method identified a genotype closely related to the B. mallei strains circulating in India.

Conclusion

Confirmation of glanders cases underscores the need of implementing a surveillance program in Nepal and a strict control of the animal movement across the borders.
PAX2, PAX8, and PR are correlated with ovarian seromucinous borderline tumor with endometriosis
Authors: Yun Bo Seong , Won Seyeon , Kim Ju-Hyun , Lee Nara , Kim Miseon , Kim Mi Kyoung , Kim Mi-La , Jung Yong Wook , Kim Ji Young , Seong Seok Ju , Shin Eunah
Published: April 2022

Background

Ovarian “seromucinous carcinoma” has been recently removed in 2020 5th Edition of WHO classification of Female Genital Tumors and is considered as a subtype of endometrioid carcinoma with mucinous differentiation, while “seromucinous borderline tumor” remains and exists as a distinct entity. Both diseases may be considered as no more same lineage. However, ovarian seromucinous borderline tumor (SMBT) is also one of the endometriosis-related neoplasm of ovary similar to endometrioid tumor, featuring that about 50% of ovarian SMBTs combine endometriosis. The present study was aimed to investigate whether the ovarian SMBTs are different in clinical features and molecular patterns, according to the presence of combined endometriosis.

Results

There were no statistical differences in clinical findings between two groups. There was also no significant difference in pregnancy outcomes and recurrence between two groups. In immunohistochemical patterns, there was a statistically significant difference in PAX2 and PAX8 expression between in ovarian SMBT with or without endometriosis (P = 0.016, P < 0.001). Only a few cases of ovarian SMBT with endometriosis showed expression of PAX2 and conversely, most of the cases showed expression of PAX8. PR positivity was more prominent in ovarian SMBT with endometriosis than without endometriosis (P = 0.018), although there was no difference in positive ER expression. There were no statistical differences in WT1, CK20 and CDX2 expressions between two groups.

Conclusions

Ovarian SMBT with endometriosis did not clinically differ from that without endometriosis. However, the molecular patterns were different between two groups and ovarian SMBT with endometriosis is close to endometrioid tumor types unlike SMBT without endometriosis. Further, a direct comparison study between seromucinous borderline tumor and endometrioid borderline tumor is needed with a gene profiling study to prove their relationship.
Harm reduction readiness for illicit IV drug use among safety-net primary care practices in the San Fernando Valley
Authors: Kalinoski Thomas , DeWitt Cassandra , Belani Hrishikesh
Published: April 2022

Background

Harm reduction is an accumulation of strategies aimed at preventing adverse health outcomes associated with illicit substance use. Several harm reduction programs and services exist within Los Angeles County (LAC), however their success relies in part on the application of harm reduction principles by local primary care providers serving patients with substance use disorders. This study aims to assess the readiness of patient-centered medical homes in the San Fernando Valley to provide effective harm reduction to patients who use injection drugs and identify barriers to doing so.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to primary care providers and social workers via email at federally qualified health centers and LAC Department of Health Services clinics in the San Fernando Valley between May and June 2019. It consisted of 22 multiple-choice, Likert scale, and short answer questions. The survey assessed knowledge of injection drug use (IDU), familiarity and utilization of harm-reduction and resources, and self-evaluation of attitudes and skills.

Results

There were a total of 41 survey respondents across all clinics. Of respondents, 98% correctly identified heroin as a drug typically injected, and 93% identified Hepatitis C as an infectious risk of IDU. 63% of respondents use harm reduction strategies every few months or less. 34% prescribe buprenorphine routinely, and 76% prescribe pre-exposure prophylaxis to those at risk for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). 76% are comfortable discussing IDU with their patients, but 59% indicate that they lack the necessary skills, and 42% agree that they lack the time to address it.

Conclusion

Knowledge of IDU was adequate among those surveyed, although overall utilization of harm reduction was infrequent. There is a perceived deficit in skills and time to effectively provide harm reduction to primary care patients in the San Fernando Valley.
Are anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase 65-kDa isoform antibodies related to diabetes or brain tumor?
Authors: Maimaiti Buajieerguli , Mijiti Salamaitiguli , Sun Huaiyu , Xie Yinyin , Jiang Ting , Meng Qian , Meng Hongmei
Published: April 2022

Background

Antibodies against the 65-kDa isoform of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD65) are biomarkers of autoimmune disorders and are more common in non-neurological autoimmune diseases than in neurological disorders. As for the central nervous system (CNS), it is well known that GAD65 is primarily associated with stiff-person syndrome, cerebellar ataxia, epilepsy, and paraneoplastic neurological syndrome. However, GAD65 antibodies have not been reported in patients with brain tumors.

Case presentation

This study presents the case of a 62-year-old man who manifested rapidly progressive dizziness with gradually worsening physical disturbance and unstable gait in the 2 months prior to consultation. Antibodies against GAD65 were detected in his serum. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed abnormal signals in the corpus callosum, the semi-oval center in both hemispheres, and the area below the frontal cortex, along with enhanced intracranial lesions in the same regions. Positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET–CT) showed high metabolism in the corpus callosum, which protruded into both ventricles. Due to signs of malignancy, the patient was diagnosed with a malignant glioma.

Conclusions

This case raises awareness on the fact that anti-GAD65 antibodies may be associated with CNS neoplastic lesions. Early recognition of anti-GAD antibodies could be of great importance for the early diagnosis and targeted treatment of neoplastic lesions, and could lead to better prognosis.
Zearalenone toxicosis on reproduction as estrogen receptor selective modulator and alleviation of zearalenone biodegradative agent in pregnant sows
Authors: Zhou Jianchuan , Zhao Lihong , Huang Shimeng , Liu Qingxiu , Ao Xiang , Lei Yuanpei , Ji Cheng , Ma Qiugang
Published: April 2022

Background

Zearalenone (ZEA) is a resorcylic acid lactone derivative derived from various Fusarium species that are widely found in food and feeds. The molecular structure of ZEA resembles that of the mammalian hormone 17β-oestradiol, thus zearalenone and its metabolites are known to compete with endogenous hormones for estrogen receptors binding sites and to activate transcription of oestrogen-responsive genes. However, the effect of long-term low-dose ZEA exposure on the reproductive response to Bacillus subtilis ANSB01G culture for first-parity gilts has not yet been investigated. This study was conducted to investigate the toxic effects of ZEA as an estrogen receptor selective modulator and the alleviating effects of Bacillus subtilis ANSB01G cultures as ZEA biodegraders in pregnant sows during their first parity.

Results

A total of 80 first-parity gilts (Yorkshire × Landrace) were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments during gestation: CO (positive control); MO (negative control, 246 μg ZEA/kg diet); COA (CO + B. subtilis ANSB01G culture with 2 × 109 CFU/kg diet); MOA (MO + B. subtilis ANSB01G culture with 2 × 109 CFU/kg diet). There were 20 replications per treatment with one gilt per replicate. Feeding low-dose ZEA naturally contaminated diets disordered most of reproductive hormones secretion and affected estrogen receptor-α and estrogen receptor-β concentrations in serum and specific organs and led to moderate histopathological changes of gilts, but did not cause significant detrimental effects on reproductive performance. The addition of Bacillus subtilis ANSB01G culture to the diet can effectively relieve the competence of ZEA to estrogen receptor and the disturbance of reproductive hormones secretion, and then ameliorate toxicosis of ZEA in gilts.

Conclusions

Collectively, our study investigated the effects of feeding low-dose ZEA on reproduction in pregnant sows during their first parity. Feeding low-dose ZEA could modulate estrogen receptor-α and -β concentrations in specific organs, cause disturbance of reproductive hormones and vulva swelling, and damage organ histopathology and up-regulate apoptosis in sow models. Diet with Bacillus subtilis ANSB01G alleviated negative effects of the ZEA on gilts to some extent.
Wnt-induced secreted proteins-1 play an important role in paraquat-induced pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Li Lanrong , Lv Shengnan , Li Xin , Liu Jingyan
Published: April 2022

Background

The objective of this article is to observe the expression of Wnt-induced secreted proteins-1 (WISP1) in paraquat (PQ)-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF) to explore the role of WISP1.

Methods

Healthy individuals were included in the control group. Patients who had acute lung injury or PF were included in the PF group. Venous blood samples were collected from the patients on days 1 and 3 following PQ poisoning to detect the expression levels of the WISP1 gene and protein concentration. Any changes in the patients’ blood gas analysis index were reviewed. In addition, chest computed tomography (CT) and x-ray images were observed to evaluate the relationship between WISP1 expression and disease severity.

Results

The expression of the WISP1 gene and the serum WISP1 protein concentration were higher in patients with PQ poisoning combined with PF than in patients without PF (P < 0.01). Serum PQ concentration was positively correlated with WISP1 gene expression (r = 0.621, P < 0.01), and serum WISP1 protein concentration (r = 0.596, P < 0.01) was considered a risk factor [odds ratio (OR) = 4.356, P < 0.05] for PQ-induced PF. Concurrently, the results of the adjusted and non-adjusted OR value for WISP1 gene expression and WISP1 protein concentration on day 1 was, respectively, as follows: OR = 12.797, 95% confidence interval (CI) (2.478–66.076), P = 0.002, OR’ = 11.353, P = 0.005; and OR = 1.545, 95% CI (1.197–1.995), P = 0.001, OR’ = 1.487, P = 0.003. The CT scan of a 20-year-old male with PQ-induced PF (20 ml) was observed, and it showed a typical hyaline-like lesion in the lungs on day 22 after poisoning; on day 33 after poisoning, the lungs showed localised consolidation combined with air bronchography.

Conclusion

The expression of WISP1 was higher in the patients with PQ-induced PF compared with the patients without PF. Accordingly, WISP1 plays an important role in PQ-induced PF.
Heterogeneity of soil bacterial and bacteriophage communities in three rice agroecosystems and potential impacts of bacteriophage on nutrient cycling
Authors: Wang Yajiao , Liu Yu , Wu Yuxing , Wu Nan , Liu Wenwen , Wang Xifeng
Published: April 2022

Background

As genetic entities infecting and replicating only in bacteria, bacteriophages can regulate the community structure and functions of their host bacteria. The ecological roles of bacteriophages in aquatic and forest environments have been widely explored, but those in agroecosystems remains limited. Here, we used metagenomic sequencing to analyze the diversity and interactions of bacteriophages and their host bacteria in soils from three typical rice agroecosystems in China: double cropping in Guangzhou, southern China, rice–wheat rotation cropping in Nanjing, eastern China and early maturing single cropping in Jiamusi, northeastern China. Enterobacter phage-NJ was isolated and its functions on soil nitrogen cycling and effect on soil bacterial community structure were verified in pot inoculation experiments and 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

Soil bacterial and viral diversity and predicted functions varied among the three agroecosystems. Genes detected in communities from the three agroecosystems were associated with typical functions: soil bacteria in Jiamusi were significantly enriched in genes related to carbohydrate metabolism, in Nanjing with xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism, and in Guangzhou with virulence factors and scarce in secondary metabolite biosynthesis, which might lead to a significant occurrence of rice bacterial diseases. The virus community structure varies significantly among the three ecosystems, only 13.39% of the total viral species were shared by the three rice agroecosystems, 59.56% of the viral species were specific to one agroecosystem. Notably, over-represented auxiliary carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme) genes were identified in the viruses, which might assist host bacteria in metabolizing carbon, and 67.43% of these genes were present in Jiamusi. In bacteriophage isolation and inoculation experiments, Enterobacter bacteriophage-NJ reduced the nitrogen fixation capacity of soil by lysing N-fixing host bacteria and changed the soil bacterial diversity and community structure.

Conclusion

Our results showed that diversity and function predicted of paddy soil bacteria and viruses varied in the three agroecosystems. Soil bacteriophages can affect nutrient cycling by boosting host metabolism through the carried auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) and lysing the host bacteria that are involved in biogeochemical cycles. These findings form a basis for better understanding bacterial and bacteriophage diversity in different rice agroecosystems, laying a solid foundation for further studies of soil microbial communities that support ecofriendly production of healthy rice.
A pilot study of the mistletoe and breast cancer (MAB) trial: a protocol for a randomised double-blind controlled trial
Authors: Bryant Susan , Duncan Lorna , Feder Gene , Huntley Alyson L.
Published: April 2022

Background

A Cochrane review of mistletoe therapy concludes that there is some evidence that mistletoe extracts may offer benefits on measures of quality of life during chemotherapy for breast cancer, but these results need replication. Our aim is to add to this evidence base by initially testing the feasibility of a UK pilot placebo-controlled, double-blind randomised controlled trial of mistletoe therapy in patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy.

Methods/design

A mixed phase pilot placebo-controlled, double-blind randomised controlled trial of mistletoe therapy in patients with breast cancer (EudraCT number: 2018-000279-34). There will be three arms (groups) in the trial: Iscador M, Iscador P, with physiological saline as the placebo. The aim is to recruit 45 adult patients with a new diagnosis of early or locally advanced breast cancer, up to 12 weeks following definitive breast surgery whose standard treatment plan includes chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy. They will be taught to administer the mistletoe and breast cancer (MAB) therapies subcutaneously. MAB therapy will continue throughout their standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy and 1 month beyond. The main outcome of the MAB study is the feasibility of conducting such a trial within the NHS in order to inform a future fully powered investigative trial. Feasibility will be measured through recruitment, retention and patient experience using clinical research forms, patient diaries, cancer-related questionnaires and qualitative interviews conducted with both patients and oncology staff.

Discussion

This trial is the first of its kind in the UK. Currently, mistletoe therapy is mostly available through private practice in the UK. Completion of this feasibility study will support applications for further funding for a fully powered randomised controlled trial which will measure effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of this herbal therapy.
Quantitative prediction error analysis to investigate predictive performance under predictor measurement heterogeneity at model implementation
Authors: Luijken Kim , Song Jia , Groenwold Rolf H. H.
Published: April 2022

Background

When a predictor variable is measured in similar ways at the derivation and validation setting of a prognostic prediction model, yet both differ from the intended use of the model in practice (i.e., “predictor measurement heterogeneity”), performance of the model at implementation needs to be inferred. This study proposed an analysis to quantify the impact of anticipated predictor measurement heterogeneity.

Methods

A simulation study was conducted to assess the impact of predictor measurement heterogeneity across validation and implementation setting in time-to-event outcome data. The use of the quantitative prediction error analysis was illustrated using an example of predicting the 6-year risk of developing type 2 diabetes with heterogeneity in measurement of the predictor body mass index.

Results

In the simulation study, calibration-in-the-large of prediction models was poor and overall accuracy was reduced in all scenarios of predictor measurement heterogeneity. Model discrimination decreased with increasing random predictor measurement heterogeneity.

Conclusions

Heterogeneity of predictor measurements across settings of validation and implementation reduced predictive performance at implementation of prognostic models with a time-to-event outcome. When validating a prognostic model, the targeted clinical setting needs to be considered and analyses can be conducted to quantify the impact of anticipated predictor measurement heterogeneity on model performance at implementation.
The hypervariable N-terminal of soybean mosaic virus P1 protein influences its pathogenicity and host defense responses
Authors: Mao Chenyang , Shan Shiqi , Huang Yue , Jiang Chong , Zhang Hehong , Li Yanjun , Chen Jianping , Wei Zhongyan , Sun Zongtao
Published: April 2022

Soybean mosaic virus (SMV; Potyvirus, Potyviridae) is one of the most prevalent and destructive viral pathogens in the world. The P1 protein is the first N-terminal product in the potyvirus genome and shows a high sequence variability that may be related to virus adaptation to hosts. In this work, we focused on the different functions of P1 proteins in two SMV isolates SMVGZL and SMVNB during their infection of plants. Isolate SMVGZL induced weaker symptoms than SMVNB in mechanical inoculation assays, and the accumulation level of SMV CP in SMVGZL-infected leaves was lower than that in leaves infected with SMVNB, especially at the late stage of infection. The isolates SMVGZL and SMVNB had a high similarity in genome sequence except for the P1 region. P1GZL induced a higher salicylic acid (SA) response than P1NB in Nicotiana benthamiana, which may explain the lower virus titers in plants infected with SMVGZL. Our results suggest that the divergence in the P1 proteins of these SMV isolates influenced their virulence via differentially regulating SA signaling.