bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical, laboratory, and chest CT features of severe versus non-severe pediatric patients with COVID-19 infection among different age groups
Authors: Hoseinyazdi Meisam , Esmaeilian Saeid , Jahankhah Reza , Teimouri Arash , Sherbaf Farzaneh Ghazi , Rafiee Faranak , Jalli Reza , Hooshmandi Sedighe
Published: June 2021

Background

This study was performed with the intention of comparing the clinical, laboratory, and chest computed tomography (CT) findings between severe and non-severe patients as well as between different age groups composed of pediatric patients with confirmed COVID-19.

Method

This study was carried out on a total of 53 confirmed COVID-19 pediatric patients who were hospitalized in Namazi and Ali Asghar Hospitals, Shiraz, Iran. The patients were divided into two severe (n = 27) and non-severe (n = 28) groups as well as into other three groups in terms of their age: aged less than two years, aged 3–12 years and 13–17 years. It should be noted that CT scans, laboratory, and clinical features were taken from all patients at the admission time. Abnormal chest CT in COVID-19 pneumonia was found to show one of the following findings: ground-glass opacities (GGO), bilateral involvement, peripheral and diffuse distribution.

Result

Fever (79.2%) and dry cough (75.5%) were the most common clinical symptoms. Severe COVID-19 patients showed lymphocytosis, while the non-severe ones did not (P = 0.03). C-reactive protein (CRP) was shown to be significantly lower in patients aged less than two years than those aged 3–12 and 13–17 years (P = 0.01). It was shown also that O2 saturation experienced a significant increase as did patients’ age (P = 0.01). Severe patients had significantly higher CT abnormalities than non-severe patients (48.0% compared to 17.9%, respectively) (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Lymphocytosis and abnormal CT findings are among the factors most associated with COVID-19 severity. It was, moreover, showed that the severity of COVID-19, O2 saturation, and respiratory distress were improved as the age of confirmed COVID-19 pediatric patients increased.
Prevalence and associated factors of psychological distress in tuberculosis patients in Northeast China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Xu , Wu Ruiheng , Xu Jia , Wang Jiawei , Gao Mingcheng , Chen Yunting , Pan Yuanping , Ji Haoqiang , Duan Yuxin , Sun Meng , Du Liang , Zhou Ling
Published: June 2021

Background

Psychological distress, a major comorbidities of tuberculosis (TB) patients, has posed a serious threat to the progress being made in global TB programs by affecting treatment adherence and health outcomes. However, the magnitude and associated factors of psychological distress have not been fully studied in China. The aim of the current study was to assess the prevalence of psychological distress in TB patients and to further determine the effects of socio-demographic characteristics, health-related variables, substance use status, social support, and experienced stigma on psychological distress.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among TB patients attending three medical institutions in Dalian, Liaoning Province, Northeast China from November 2020 to March 2021. A structured questionnaire was developed to collect data on patients’ socio-demographic characteristics, health-related information, substance use status, psychological distress, family function, doctor-patient relationship, policy support, experienced stigma and so on. The binary logistics regression model was used to determine the associated factors of psychological distress.

Results

A total of 473 TB patients were enrolled in this study, and the prevalence of psychological distress was 64.1%. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that patients with a middle school education level or above (OR: 0.521, 95%CI: 0.279–0.974), no adverse drug reactions (OR: 0.476, 95%CI: 0.268–0.846), and regular physical exercise (OR: 0.528, 95%CI: 0.281–0.993) were more likely to stay away from psychological distress. However, patients who had a high economic burden (OR: 1.697, 95%CI: 1.014–2.840), diabetes (OR: 2.165, 95%CI: 1.025–4.573), self-rated illness severe (OR: 3.169, 95%CI: 1.081–9.285), perceived poor resistance (OR: 2.065, 95%CI: 1.118–3.815), severe family dysfunction (OR: 4.001, 95%CI: 1.158–13.823), perceived need for strengthen psychological counseling (OR: 4.837, 95%CI: 2.833–8.258), and a high experienced stigma (OR: 3.253, 95%CI: 1.966–5.384) tended to have a psychological distress.

Conclusions

The study found that the proportion of psychological distress among TB patients was high in Northeast China, and it was influenced by a variety of factors. Effective interventions to reduce psychological distress in TB patients urgently need to be developed, and greater attention should be given to patients with risk factors.
Presepsin and prognostic nutritional index are predictors of septic acute kidney injury, renal replacement therapy initiation in sepsis patients, and prognosis in septic acute kidney injury patients: a pilot study
Authors: Shimoyama Yuichiro , Umegaki Osamu , Kadono Noriko , Minami Toshiaki
Published: June 2021

Background

Sepsis is the most common cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) among critically ill patients. This study aimed to determine whether presepsin is a predictor of septic acute kidney injury, renal replacement therapy initiation (RRTi) in sepsis patients, and prognosis in septic AKI patients.

Methods

Presepsin values were measured immediately after ICU admission (baseline) and on Days 2, 3, and 5 after ICU admission. Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio, Prognostic Index, and Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) were measured at baseline, and total scores (“inflammation-presepsin scores [iPS]”) were calculated for category classification. Presepsin values, inflammation-based prognostic scores, and iPS were compared between patients with and without septic AKI or RRTi and between survivors and non-survivors.

Results

Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses identified the following variables as predictors of septic AKI and RRTi in sepsis patients: presepsin on Day 1 (AUC: 0.73) and Day 2 (AUC: 0.71) for septic AKI, and presepsin on Day 1 (AUC: 0.71), Day 2 (AUC: 0.9), and Day 5 (AUC: 0.96), Δpresepsin (Day 2 – Day 1) (AUC: 0.84), Δpresepsin (Day 5 – Day 1) (AUC: 0.93), and PNI (AUC: 0.72) for RRTi. Multivariate logistic regression analyses identified presepsin on Day 2 as a predictor of prognosis in septic AKI patients.

Conclusions

Presepsin and PNI were found to be predictors of septic AKI, RRTi in sepsis patients, and prognosis in septic AKI patients.
Housing First Combined with Suicide Treatment Education and Prevention (HOME + STEP): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chavez Laura , Kelleher Kelly , Bunger Alicia , Brackenoff Brittany , Famelia Ruri , Ford Jodi , Feng Xin , Mallory Allen , Martin Jared , Sheftall Arielle , Walsh Laura , Yilmazer Tansel , Slesnick Natasha
Published: June 2021

Background

Youth experiencing homelessness are at high risk for suicide, yet few studies have evaluated risk reduction interventions targeting suicidal ideation in this vulnerable population. A comprehensive approach to risk-reduction is needed that addresses basic needs and provides targeted interventions for those at highest risk. The protocol described builds on the design of the first randomized trial of Housing First (HF) for homeless youth. The primary objective is to determine whether housing combined with supportive services that include suicide screening and targeted psychotherapy (Cognitive Therapy for Suicide Prevention) is effective for reducing suicidal ideation and other secondary outcomes (depression and suicide attempts). Additionally, we will explore mediators of the treatment effect (housing stability and substance use) and determinants of implementation.

Methods

Youth recruited to the HF trial will be randomized to HF + supportive services (n = 120), or supportive services alone (n = 120). The “Suicide Treatment Education and Prevention” (STEP) protocol will additionally screen youth in both arms at baseline and 3 months for suicidal ideation (SSI-W). Those who screen as moderate risk for suicide (SSI-W ≥ 10) will be offered CTSP, which includes up to 9 sessions over the first 6 months following enrollment. CTSP will be delivered in one-on-one sessions by a trained advocate. Research assessments will be collected to assess outcomes (including suicidal ideation) at baseline, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Qualitative interviews with subjects receiving CTSP and other stakeholders will explore implementation determinants.

Discussion

The study will fill an important gap in the literature about the added benefit of HF combined with supportive services including suicide screening and treatment for reducing suicidal ideation in homeless youth. With the urgent need to address both homelessness and suicide risk, evidence is needed about services that can be integrated into delivery settings for youth experiencing homelessness.

Trial registration

NCT04135703. Date of registration: October 23, 2019.
Problems, policy and politics – perspectives of public health leaders on food insecurity and human rights in Australia
Authors: Godrich Stephanie L. , Barbour Liza , Lindberg Rebecca
Published: June 2021

Background

To achieve zero hunger targets set within the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, high-income countries such as Australia must reconsider current efforts to improve food security. This study aimed to; explore perspectives from public health nutrition experts on the usefulness of drawing on the international human right to food, and associated mechanisms, to address food insecurity; identify potential roles of key stakeholders in Australia to implement a rights-based approach; and examine barriers and enablers to achieving the right to food in Australia.

Methods

Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with key informants (> 10 years professional experience). Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-phase approach to thematic analysis was employed to analyse data, using Kingdon’s multiple streams framework (1984) to examine interactive variables which affect policy-making processes.

Results

Thirty interviews took place, with most participants representing academia (n = 16), majority had 10–14 years of experience (n = 12) and almost one quarter (n = 7) were in senior leadership roles. Participants believed that framing food insecurity as a human rights issue could be effective when communicating with some audiences, however alternative rhetoric is more popular and potentially more effective. Citizens, government, food industry, non-profit sector, research/tertiary and legal institutions were described as playing critical roles. Barriers to progress were identified as lack of awareness and acknowledgement of the problem, prioritisation of the private sector, lack of political will and domestic laws, and an inefficient/ineffective charitable food sector. Participants identified various enablers and opportunities for implementing a rights-based approach such as grass-roots advocacy efforts to raise awareness of the issue, integrating human rights into government frameworks and community projects and the political will to support action aligned with sustainable development.

Conclusions

Human rights language and mechanisms have the potential to trigger genuine commitment to addressing food insecurity however should be used with caution. Australia’s public health workforce requires increased capacity to implement a human-rights approach and framing such efforts to align with sustainable development may achieve greater political action.

Trial registration

Ethics approval was received from the Deakin University Human Research Ethics committee (project ID HEAG 168_2018).
Influence of the request and purchase of television advertised foods on dietary intake and obesity among children in China
Authors: Xian Jinli , Zeng Mao , Cai Zhengjie , Xie Changxiao , Xie Yuqian , Sharma Manoj , Zhao Yong , Shi Zumin
Published: June 2021

Background

This study aims to examine the effects of the request and purchase of Television (TV) advertised foods on children’s dietary intake, overweight and obesity in China.

Methods

Data from 1417 children (aged 6–17 years) in the 2011 China Health and Nutrition Survey were analysed. The request and purchase of TV advertised foods were assessed through the frequency of children’s requests to purchase TV advertised foods and the frequency of parents’ purchases of these advertised foods, as well as the frequency of children’s purchases of TV advertised foods. The height and weight of children were measured. Logistic regression models were used to identify the associations between the request and purchase of TV advertised foods and overweight/obesity of children.

Results

The request and purchase of TV advertised foods were positively associated with children’s dietary intake of energy, protein, fat and carbohydrates. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, children’s request and purchase of TV advertised foods and parent’s purchase of TV advertised foods were positively associated with children’s overweight/obesity: odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for overweight/obesity were: 1.46 (1.01–2.11) for children purchasing advertised foods ≥1 time/week, 1.59 (1.15–2.18) for parents purchasing advertised foods for their children ≥1 time/week and 1.39 (1.00–1.95) for children requesting advertised foods ≥1 time/week.

Conclusions

The request and purchase of TV advertised foods are associated with children’s dietary intake. Moreover, the request and purchase of TV advertised foods can increase the risk of overweight and obesity of children. Health education involving children’s request and purchase of TV advertised foods and parents’ purchase of TV advertised foods should be considered in China.
Coping with migration-related stressors - a qualitative study of Nepali male labour migrants
Authors: Mak Joelle , Zimmerman Cathy , Roberts Bayard
Published: June 2021

Background

International labour migration has become a crucial livelihood strategy, especially in countries where decently paid employment opportunities are limited. Such opportunities come with many potential benefits but also many stressors that challenge migrants’ coping skills, especially when they are in a foreign environment away from their normal support network. This paper explores how labour migrants coped with migration-related stressors using a sample of male Nepali migrants.

Methods

Qualitative life histories were conducted in Kathmandu among returnee male migrants. Coping responses were categorised based Skinner and Zimmer-Gembeck’s coping typologies. The interview scripts were transcribed in Nepali and translated into English for analysis. Each interview script was open coded and then categorised according to the 12 core coping families. Data were analysed thematically to explore relationships across and within coping and stressors.

Results

Forty-two men were interviewed who mainly worked in low- and semi-skilled jobs in Malaysia, and the Gulf States. The coping strategies most commonly used belonged to the families of problem-solving, support-seeking, negotiation and helplessness. Men used these either individually or collectively with other migrants. Those who sought assistance from authorities or civil society organisations did not always receive the help needed and there were mixed messages as to when and what types of assistance were available. Some stressors involved multiple coping strategies simultaneously, others described changing strategies following unsuccessful earlier attempts. The coping families of helplessness and social isolation reflected migrants’ limited power in challenging certain stressors. The choice of coping strategies was also moderated by factors such as outstanding loans, language difficulties, or not wanting to cause their family distress. Some coping strategies used led to  new stressors.

Conclusions

Migrants need greater clarifications on their rights with respect to contract discrepancies, the types of support available, how and from whom to access them once in destination. Improvements to the support mechanisms migrants can access as well as strengthening migrant-led initiatives in destination countries to support labour migrants' in managing stressors are needed. These may contribute to reducing the experiences and impact of such stressors, which may ultimately lead to more successful migration outcomes. As labour migration from Nepal is likely to continue, government and CSOs need to ensure migrants have the support they need to cope with the challenges they may encountered along the way.
Awareness, knowledge and trust in the Greek authorities towards COVID-19 pandemic: results from the Epirus Health Study cohort
Authors: Kanellopoulou Afroditi , Koskeridis Fotios , Markozannes Georgios , Bouras Emmanouil , Soutziou Chrysa , Chaliasos Konstantinos , Doumas Michail T. , Sigounas Dimitrios E. , Tzovaras Vasilios T. , Panos Agapios , Stergiou Yiolanda , Mellou Kassiani , Papamichail Dimitrios , Aretouli Eleni , Chatzidimitriou Dimitrios , Chatzopoulou Fani , Bairaktari Eleni , Tzoulaki Ioanna , Evangelou Evangelos , Rizos Evangelos C. , Ntzani Evangelia , Vakalis Konstantinos , Tsilidis Konstantinos K.
Published: June 2021

Background

To assess the level of knowledge and trust in the policy decisions taken regarding the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic among Epirus Health Study (EHS) participants.

Methods

The EHS is an ongoing and deeply-phenotyped prospective cohort study that has recruited 667 participants in northwest Greece until August 31st, 2020. Level of knowledge on coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) transmission and COVID-19 severity was labeled as poor, moderate or good. Variables assessing knowledge and beliefs towards the pandemic were summarized overall and by sex, age group (25–39, 40–49, 50–59, ≥60 years) and period of report (before the lifting of lockdown measures in Greece: March 30th to May 3rd, and two post-lockdown time periods: May 4th to June 31st, July 1st to August 31st). A hypothesis generating exposure-wide association analysis was conducted to evaluate the associations between 153 agnostically-selected explanatory variables and participants’ knowledge. Correction for multiple comparisons was applied using a false discovery rate (FDR) threshold of 5%.

Results

A total of 563 participants (49 years mean age; 60% women) had available information on the standard EHS questionnaire, the clinical and biochemical measurements, and the COVID-19-related questionnaire. Percentages of poor, moderate and good knowledge status regarding COVID-19 were 4.5, 10.0 and 85.6%, respectively. The majority of participants showed absolute or moderate trust in the Greek health authorities for the management of the epidemic (90.1%), as well as in the Greek Government (84.7%) and the official national sources of information (87.4%). Trust in the authorities was weaker in younger participants and those who joined the study after the lifting of lockdown measures (p-value≤0.001). None of the factors examined was associated with participants’ level of knowledge after correction for multiple testing.

Conclusions

High level of knowledge about the COVID-19 pandemic and trust in the Greek authorities was observed, possibly due to the plethora of good quality publicly available information and the timely management of the pandemic at its early stages in Greece. Information campaigns for the COVID-19 pandemic should be encouraged even after the lifting of lockdown measures to increase public awareness.
Prevalence and risk factors for bone loss in rheumatoid arthritis patients from South China: modeled by three methods
Authors: Hu Zhuoran , Zhang Lei , Lin Zhiming , Zhao Changlin , Xu Shuiming , Lin He , Zhang Jiejing , Li Wenjie , Chu Yongliang
Published: June 2021

Background

To explore the prevalence of bone loss among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and healthy controls (HC) and further explored the risk factors for osteopenia and osteoporosis of RA patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was undertaken in four hospitals in different districts in South China to reveal the prevalence of bone loss in patients. Case records, laboratory tests, and bone mineral density (BMD) results of patients were collected. Traditional multivariable logistic regression analysis and two machine learning methods, including least absolute shrinkage selection operator (LASSO) and random forest (RF) were for exploring the risk factors for osteopenia or osteoporosis in RA patients.

Results

Four hundred five patients with RA and 198 HC were included. RA patients had lower BMD in almost BMD measurement sites than healthy controls; the decline of lumbar spine BMD was earlier than HC. RA patients were more likely to comorbid with osteopenia and osteoporosis (p for trend < 0.001) in the lumbar spine than HC. Higher serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 level and using tumor necrosis factor inhibitor in the last year were protective factors; aging, lower body mass index, and increased serum uric acid might be risk factors for bone loss.

Conclusions

RA patients were more prone and earlier to have bone loss than HC. More attention should be paid to measuring BMD in RA patients aging with lower BMI or hyperuricemia. Besides, serum vitamin D and all three measurement sites are recommended to check routinely. TNFi usage in the last year might benefit bone mass.
Two-stage exchange Arthroplasty for knee Periprosthetic joint infection exhibit high infection recurrence rate in patients with chronic viral hepatitis
Authors: Chen Jui-ping , Chang Chih-hsiang , Lin Yu-chih , Lee Sheng-hsun , Shih Hsin-nung , Chang Yuhan
Published: June 2021

Background

Currently, there is little evidence about the outcome of two-stage exchange arthroplasty for the treatment of knee periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in patients with chronic viral hepatitis. To evaluate it, we set the primary outcome as infection recurrence, and the secondary outcome as the difference between patients diagnosed with hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus.

Patients and methods

Between June, 2010 and December, 2016, 172 patients with knee PJIs were treated with two-stage exchange arthroplasty at our institute. Treatment success was defined using Delphi-based consensus. These patients were further divided into groups with or without chronic hepatitis. Variables were analyzed, including age, sex, comorbidities, microbiology, and operative methods. Minimum follow-up was 12 months (mean, 35 months; range, 12-85 months).

Results

Of the 172 knee PJI patients, 25 were identified with chronic hepatitis. The infection recurrence rate in the hepatitis group (28%, 7 in 25) was significantly higher than that in the non-hepatitis group (9.5%, 14 in 147), p = 0.017. However, there was no significant difference in the infection recurrence rates between patients with HBV (24%, 4 in 16) and HCV (33.3%, 3 in 9). Regarding the outcomes of patients with infection recurrence, 4 of the non-hepatitis patients were treated with the debridement, antibiotic treatment, irrigation, and retention of prosthesis (DAIR) procedure, with a success rate of 75%. The other 17 patients (7 with hepatitis and 10 without) were treated with repeated two-stage exchange arthroplasty with 100% infection elimination rate until the final follow-up.

Conclusions

Knee PJI patients with chronic hepatitis have higher infection recurrence rate after two-stage exchange arthroplasty (28%).
Multiple drilling is not effective in reducing the rate of conversion to Total hip Arthroplasty in early-stage nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head: a case-control comparative study with a natural course
Authors: Liu Zunhan , Yang Xuetao , Li Yuhan , Zeng Wei-Nan , Zhao Enze , Zhou Zongke
Published: June 2021

Background

To determine whether multiple drilling is effective in postponing the need for total hip arthroplasty (THA) in early-stage nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).

Methods

We identified 514 patients who were diagnosed with early-stage ONFH between January 2008 and December 2018. One hundred ninety-six patients underwent multiple drilling, and 318 patients had a natural course of progression. One hundred fifty-nine patients were selected for each group after case-control matching for preoperative demographics and modified Ficat and Arlet stage. The rates of THA conversion were compared. We also performed Cox regression to identify risk factors associated with THA conversion in patients who underwent multiple drilling.

Results

Kaplan-Meier survivorship with an endpoint of THA for nontraumatic reasons were not significantly different between the multiple drilling group (75.6, 95% confidence interval 67.8–83.4%) and the natural course group (72.2, 95% confidence interval 64.8–79.6%) at 5 years (log-rank, P = .191). In the Cox regression model, a larger extent of necrotic lesion, bone marrow edema (BME), and higher postoperative work intensity significantly increased the risk of THA conversion (P < .05). Among patients treated with autogenous bone grafting, there was a lower risk of failure in patients with necrotic lesion less than 15% (P < .05).

Conclusions

Multiple drilling is not effective in reducing the rate of THA conversion in early-stage nontraumatic ONFH. The risk of conversion to THA after multiple drilling is increased by a larger extent of necrotic lesion, presence of BME, and higher postoperative work intensity in patients with early-stage ONFH.

Trial registration

The trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000035180) dated 2 August 2020.
Exercise training using hybrid assistive limb (HAL) lumbar type for locomotive syndrome: a pilot study
Authors: Miura Kousei , Koda Masao , Tamaki Kazuhiro , Ishida Masatoshi , Marushima Aiki , Funayama Toru , Takahashi Hiroshi , Noguchi Hiroshi , Mataki Kentaro , Yasunaga Yoshihiro , Kawamoto Hiroaki , Sankai Yoshiyuki , Matsumura Akira , Yamazaki Masashi
Published: June 2021

Background

With a rapidly aging population in Japan, locomotive syndrome is becoming an increasingly serious social problem. Exercise therapy using the lumbar type HAL, which is a wearable robot suit that can assist voluntary hip joint motion, would be expected to cause some beneficial effects for people with locomotive syndrome. The purpose of this study was to assess whether the deterioration of low back pain and any other adverse events would occur following HAL exercise therapy. Moreover, the changes of motor ability variables were evaluated.

Methods

We enrolled 33 participants (16 men, 17 women) with locomotive syndrome in this study. They received exercise training (sit-to-stand, lumbar flexion-extension, and gait training) with HAL (in total 12 sessions). We assessed the change of low back pain (lumbar VAS). More than 50% and 25 mm increase compared to baseline was defined as adverse events. One-leg standing time (OLST), 10-m walking test (10MWT), Timed Up and Go test (TUG), 1-min sit-to-stand test (1MSTS), FIM mobility scores and EQ-5D were measured.

Results

Of the 33 participants, 32 (16 men, 16 women) (97.0%) completed all 12 exercise training sessions using the lumbar type HAL. One woman aged 82 years withdrew because of right upper limb pain after the second session regardless of the use of HAL. There was no participant who had deterioration of low back pain. Any other adverse events including external injuries and/or falling, skin disorders, uncontrollable cardiovascular or respiratory disorders, and other health disorders directly related to this exercise therapy did not occur. Several outcome measures of motion ability including OLST, TUG and 1MSTS, EQ VAS and lumbar pain improved significantly after this HAL training.

Conclusions

Almost all patients with locomotive syndrome completed this exercise training protocol without any adverse events related to HAL. Furthermore, balance function variables including OLST, TUG and 1MSTS improved after this HAL exercise therapy even though mobility function variables including 10MWT and FIM mobility scores did not show any significant change. These findings suggest that the exercise therapy using the lumbar type HAL would be one of the options for the intervention in locomotive syndrome.
The predictive value of high school grade point average to academic achievement and career satisfaction of dental graduates
Authors: Al-Asmar Ayah A. , Oweis Yara , Ismail Noor H. , Sabrah Alaa H. A. , Abd-Raheam Islam M.
Published: June 2021

Background

In a country where admission to dental schools is based solely on the cognitive abilities of students, the aim of the study was to investigate the correlation between high school grade point average and graduating academic achievement for dental students; moreover, determine whether a correlation exists between dental students’ graduating academic achievement and their career choices and job satisfaction.

Methods

A five-year retrospective cohort study was conducted at the University of Jordan, involving (828) dental graduates first enrolled between 2010 and 2014. Correlations comparing high school grade point average and graduating academic achievement were done for the total sample composed of (736) students. A short survey was constructed to assess the career choices and job satisfaction for recently graduated dentists and correlate them with their graduating academic achievement.

Results

Statistically significant but weak positive correlation (0.3) was found between high school grade point average and graduating academic achievement for dental students (p ≤ 0.05). Statistically significant correlations were found between graduating academic achievement and career choices and job satisfaction.

Conclusion

The significant positive correlation between the high school grade point average and graduating academic achievement of our dental students indicate that our school admission system depending on high school grade point average is a valid system. There was a significant negative correlation between the graduating academic achievement and both the career choices and job satisfaction among fresh graduate dentists in Jordan. This information is required to update the dental school admissions procedures in response to the changing dental educational landscape.
Economic empowerment and intimate partner violence: a secondary data analysis of the cross-sectional Demographic Health Surveys in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Stöckl Heidi , Hassan Anushé , Ranganathan Meghna , M. Hatcher Abigail
Published: June 2021

Background

Intimate partner violence (IPV) has been recognized as a defining human rights, development and public health issue of our time. Economic empowerment is one of the most promising interventions to reduce IPV in sub-Saharan Africa, yet the evidence around economic factors that are key to ensure a reduction in IPV are still mixed. Furthermore, there is a lack of clarity on what kinds of economic empowerment works for which population group. This paper seeks a more nuanced understanding, by investigating whether the associations between indicators of economic empowerment and physical and/or sexual IPV are similar between the general population of women and among urban versus rural and young, or middle aged women versus older women.

Methods

Using couples data from 25 DHS surveys across 15 countries (n = 70,993 women and men aged 15 and above at time of survey), we analyse how household wealth, men’s and women’s education and employment status, decision making on women’s income, differences in education and employment of women and their partners and women’s cash income are associated with physical and/or sexual IPV. We also provide sub-analyses for both urban and rural areas and for women aged, 15 to 24 25 to 34 and 35 to 49.

Results

Across all surveys, 20% of women reported physical and/or sexual IPV in the last 12 months. On the one hand, our findings reinforced certain well-established patterns between women’s economic empowerment and IPV, with women’s and men’s higher levels of education and increased household wealth  associated with a decrease in IPV, and women’s employment, especially if only the woman worked, and women earning more than her partner associated with an increase in IPV. Most patterns did not differ across urban and rural settings and age groups, but notable differences emerged regarding household wealth, women’s and men’s employment in the last 12 months and relative employment and education.

Conclusions

Factors relating to women’s economic empowerment are  vital in understanding and addressing IPV. Our analysis indicate however that future interventions need to consider the differing needs of urban and rural areas as well as be targeted to different age groups.
Analysis of ORF5 sequences of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome virus (PRRSV) circulating within swine farms in Costa Rica
Authors: Guzmán Mónica , Meléndez Ronald , Jiménez Carlos , Piche Marta , Jiménez Emily , León Bernal , Cordero Juan M. , Ramirez-Carvajal Lisbeth , Uribe Alberto , Van Nes Arie , Stegeman Arjan , Romero Juan José
Published: June 2021

Background

Worldwide, Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) is among the diseases that cause the highest economic impact in modern pig production. PRRS was first detected in Costa Rica in 1996 and has since then severely affected the local swine industry. Studies of the molecular characterization of circulating strains, correlation with clinical records, and associations with pathogens associated with Porcine Respiratory Disease Complex (PRDC) have not been done in Costa Rica.

Results

Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of ORF5 proved that PRRSV-2 was the only species detected in all locations analyzed. These sequences were grouped into three clusters. When comparing samples from San Jose, Alejuela, and Puntarenas to historical isolates of the previously described lineages (1 to 9), it has been shown that these were closely related to each other and belonged to Lineage 5, along with the samples from Heredia. Intriguingly, samples from Cartago clustered in a separate clade, phylogenetically related to Lineage 1. Epitope analysis conducted on the GP5 sequence of field isolates from Costa Rica revealed seven peptides with at least 80% amino acid sequence identity with previously described and experimentally validated immunogenic regions. Previously described epitopes A, B, and C, were detected in the Santa Barbara-Heredia isolate.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the virus has three distinct origins or introductions to the country. Future studies will elucidate how recently introduced vaccines will shape the evolutionary change of circulating field strains.
First detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in Norway
Authors: Madslien Knut , Moldal Torfinn , Gjerset Britt , Gudmundsson Sveinn , Follestad Arne , Whittard Elliot , Tronerud Ole-Herman , Dean Katharine Rose , Åkerstedt Johan , Jørgensen Hannah J. , das Neves Carlos G. , Rømo Grim
Published: June 2021

Background

Several outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) caused by influenza A virus of subtype H5N8 have been reported in wild birds and poultry in Europe during autumn 2020. Norway is one of the few countries in Europe that had not previously detected HPAI virus, despite widespread active monitoring of both domestic and wild birds since 2005.

Results

We report detection of HPAI virus subtype H5N8 in a wild pink-footed goose (Anser brachyrhynchus), and several other geese, ducks and a gull, from south-western Norway in November and December 2020. Despite previous reports of low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI), this constitutes the first detections of HPAI in Norway.

Conclusions

The mode of introduction is unclear, but a northward migration of infected geese or gulls from Denmark or the Netherlands during the autumn of 2020 is currently our main hypothesis for the introduction of HPAI to Norway. The presence of HPAI in wild birds constitutes a new, and ongoing, threat to the Norwegian poultry industry, and compliance with the improved biosecurity measures on poultry farms should therefore be ensured. [MK1]Finally, although HPAI of subtype H5N8 has been reported to have very low zoonotic potential, this is a reminder that HPAI with greater zoonotic potential in wild birds may pose a threat in the future. [MK1]Updated with a sentence emphasizing the risk HPAI pose to poultry farms, both in the Abstract and in the Conclusion-section in main text, as suggested by Reviewer 1 (#7).
Bi-allelic variants in MTMR5/SBF1 cause Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 4B3 featuring mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Berti Beatrice , Longo Giovanna , Mari Francesco , Doccini Stefano , Piccolo Ilaria , Donati Maria Alice , Moro Francesca , Guerrini Renzo , Santorelli Filippo M. , Petruzzella Vittoria
Published: June 2021

Background

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) type 4B3 (CMT4B3) is a rare form of genetic neuropathy associated with variants in the MTMR5/SBF1gene. MTMR5/SBF1 is a pseudophosphatase predicted to regulate endo-lysosomal trafficking in tandem with other MTMRs. Although almost ubiquitously expressed, pathogenic variants primarily impact on the peripheral nervous system, corroborating the involvement of MTMR5/SBF1 and its molecular partners in Schwann cells-mediated myelinization.

Case presentation

We report a case of severe CMT4B3 characterized by early-onset motor and axonal polyneuropathy in an Italian child in absence of any evidence of brain and spine MRI abnormalities or intellectual disability and with a biochemical profile suggestive of mitochondrial disease. Using an integrated approach combining both NGS gene panels and WES analysis, we identified two novel compound heterozygous missense variants in MTMR5/SBF1gene, p.R763H (c.2291G > A) and p.G1064E (c.3194G > A). Studies in muscle identified partial defects of oxidative metabolism.

Conclusion

We describe the first case of an early onset severe polyneuropathy with motor and axonal involvement, due to recessive variants in the MTMR5/SBF1gene, with no evidence of brain and spine MRI abnormalities, intellectual disability, no clinical and neurophysiological evidences of distal sensory impairment, and rapid neuromuscular deterioration. This report suggests that MTMR5/SBF1should be considered in cases of infantile-onset CMT with secondary mitochondrial dysfunction.
Evaluation of the effect of MTNR1B rs10830963 gene variant on the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide in treating type 2 diabetes among Chinese Han patients
Authors: Song Jin-Fang , Zhang Jie , Zhang Ming-Zhu , Ni Jiang , Wang Tao , Zhao Yi-Qing , Khan Naveed Ullah
Published: June 2021

Genetic polymorphisms in the MTNR1B gene is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); however, there is no evidence about its impact on the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide. This prospective case–control study was designed to investigate the effect of MTNR1B rs10830963 gene variant on the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide in treating T2DM. We genotyped untreated T2DM patients (N = 200) and healthy controls (N = 200) using the method of the high resolution of melting curve (HRM). Newly diagnosed T2DM patients (n = 60) with CYP2C9*1 and SLCO1B1 521TT genotypes were enrolled and given oral nateglinide (360 mg/d) for 8 weeks. The outcome was measured by collecting the venous blood samples before and at the 8th week of the treatment. The risk G allelic frequency of MTNR1B rs10830963 was higher in T2DM patients than the healthy subjects (P < 0.05). Post 8-week of treatment, newly diagnosed T2DM patients showed a less reduction in fasting plasma glucose levels and less increase in the carriers of genotype CG + GG at rs10830963 when compared with the CC genotype (P < 0.05). MTNR1B rs10830963 polymorphism was associated with the therapeutic efficacy of nateglinide in T2DM patients. Also, the CC homozygotes had a better effect than G allele carriers.

Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Register ChiCTR13003536, date of registration: May 14, 2013.
Tumor-infiltrating B cells as a favorable prognostic biomarker in breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Qin You , Peng Fei , Ai Lisha , Mu Shidai , Li Yuting , Yang Chensu , Hu Yu
Published: June 2021

Background

Tumor-infiltrating B lymphocytes (TIL-Bs) is a heterogeneous population of lymphocytes. The prognostic value of TIL-Bs in patients with breast cancer remains controversial. Here we conducted this meta-analysis to clarify the association of TIL-Bs with outcomes of patients with breast cancer.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science to identify relevant studies assessing the prognostic significance of TIL-Bs in patients with breast cancer. Fixed- or random-effects models were used to evaluate the pooled hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS), breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS), disease-free survival (DFS), and relapse-free survival (RFS) in breast cancer.

Results

A total of 8 studies including 2628 patients were included in our study. Pooled analyses revealed that high level of TIL-Bs was associated with longer OS (pooled HR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.24–0.60), BCSS (pooled HR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.47–0.85), and DFS/RFS (pooled HR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.27–0.55).

Conclusions

This meta-analysis suggests that TIL-Bs could be a promising prognostic marker for breast cancer. Novel therapeutic strategies for breast cancer treatment could be developed by enhancement of B cell-mediated antitumor immunity.
Low MSP-1 haplotype diversity in the West Palearctic population of the avian malaria parasite Plasmodium relictum
Authors: Hellgren Olof , Kelbskopf Victor , Ellis Vincenzo A. , Ciloglu Arif , Duc Mélanie , Huang Xi , Lopes Ricardo J. , Mata Vanessa A. , Aghayan Sargis A. , Inci Abdullah , Drovetski Sergei V.
Published: June 2021

Background

Although avian Plasmodium species are widespread and common across the globe, limited data exist on how genetically variable their populations are. Here, the hypothesis that the avian blood parasite Plasmodium relictum exhibits very low genetic diversity in its Western Palearctic transmission area (from Morocco to Sweden in the north and Transcaucasia in the east) was tested.

Methods

The genetic diversity of Plasmodium relictum was investigated by sequencing a portion (block 14) of the fast-evolving merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1) gene in 75 different P. relictum infections from 36 host species. Furthermore, the full-length MSP1 sequences representing the common block 14 allele was sequenced in order to investigate if additional variation could be found outside block 14.

Results

The majority (72 of 75) of the sequenced infections shared the same MSP1 allele. This common allele has previously been found to be the dominant allele transmitted in Europe.

Conclusion

The results corroborate earlier findings derived from a limited dataset that the globally transmitted malaria parasite P. relictum exhibits very low genetic diversity in its Western Palearctic transmission area. This is likely the result of a recent introduction event or a selective sweep.
IL-31, itch and hematological malignancies
Authors: Di Salvo Eleonora , Allegra Alessandro , Casciaro Marco , Gangemi Sebastiano
Published: June 2021

Pruritus is one of the most common symptoms experienced by neoplastic patients. The pathogenesis of neoplastic itch is complex and multifactorial and could be due to an unbalanced production of humoral mediators by altered immune effector cells. IL-31 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine produced by CD4 + T helper cells. The aim of this review was to evaluate the role of this Th2 cytokine and its receptor IL-31RA, in the onset of neoplastic pruritus. We analysed scientific literature looking for the most relevant original articles linking IL-31to itch in oncologic diseases. Interleukin-31 seems to be a main itch mediator in several hematologic disease such as Cutaneous T cells lymphomas. In these patients IL-31 was positively linked to itch level, and IL-31 matched with disease stage. IL-31 seems to play an important role in the signalling pathway involved in pruritus, but it is also suggested to play a proinflammatory and immunomodulatory role which could play a part in the progression of the neoplastic disease. Further studies will be fundamental in facing pruritus in oncologic patients, since this problem compromise their quality of life worsening an already critic picture.
Correction to: The clinical significance of CTC enrichment by GPC3-IML and its genetic analysis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yi Bin , Wu Tian , Zhu Nan , Huang Yao , Yang Xiaoyu , Yuan Lei , Wu Yingjun , Liang Xiaofei , Jiang Xiaoqing
Published: June 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Epidemic of HIV infection among persons who inject drugs in mainland China: a series, cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Bo , Yan Xiangyu , Li Yongjie , Zhu He , Liu Zhimin , Lu Zuhong , Jia Zhongwei
Published: June 2021

Background

Studies have suggested that the injection drug use (IDU) was no longer the main transmission route of HIV/AIDS in China. However, there has never been a study to assess the national HIV epidemic among persons who inject drugs (PWIDs) based on a nationwide database.

Methods

PWIDs among new entrants in detoxification centers with HIV test results were extracted from the 2008–2016 National Dynamic Management and Control Database for Persons Who Use Drugs (NDMCD). Logistic regressions were used to analyze factors associated with HIV infection, and joinpoint regression were used to examine trends in the HIV prevalence.

Results

A total of 103,619 PWIDs among new entrants tested for HIV in detoxification centers between 2008 and 2016 were included in the analysis. The HIV prevalence was 5.0% (n = 5167) among PWIDs. A U-shaped curve of the HIV prevalence decreased from 4.9% in 2008 to 3.3% in 2010 (Annual Percent Change [APC] − 20.6, 95% CI − 32.5 to − 6.7, p < 0.05) and subsequently increased from 3.3% in 2010 to 8.6% in 2016 (APC 17.9, 95% CI 14.5–21.4, p < 0.05) was observed. The HIV prevalence in west regions in China all presented decreased trends, while central and eastern regions presented increased trends.

Conclusions

Although the HIV prevalence has been declining in general population, the HIV prevalence among PWIDs has shown an increasing trend since 2010. Current policies on HIV control in PWIDs should be reassessed.