bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical management of feline chronic kidney disease in Portugal: a questionnaire-based study
Authors: Magalhães Tomás Rodrigues , Lourenço Ana Luísa , Corbee Ronald Jan , Queiroga Felisbina Luísa
Published: November 2023

Objectives

The aim of the study was to characterise the clinical management of feline chronic kidney disease (CKD) by veterinary practitioners in Portugal.

Methods

A questionnaire-based study was designed to be completed by all veterinarians who had diagnosed and treated at least one case of feline CKD in the previous year.

Results

A total of 409 veterinary practitioners responded to the questionnaire, with approximately half of them diagnosing 2–5 cases of feline CKD per month (n = 219, 53.5%). Although a high proportion of these reported using the guidelines published by the International Renal Interest Society (n = 379, 92.7%), only 19.1% (n = 78) systematically performed systolic blood pressure (SBP) measurements in all of their patients. A renal diet was advised by almost all respondents (n = 406, 99.3%), but 36.9% (n = 150) of them considered that it represented less than 75% of the daily food intake for most of their patients. This dietary intervention was often prescribed regardless of stage (n = 298, 73.4%) and without a proper gradual diet transition. Appetite stimulants were frequently prescribed (n = 366, 89.5%), as well as a calcium channel blocker (n = 171, 41.8%) and an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (n = 245, 59.9%) to control systemic hypertension and proteinuria, respectively. Prescription of a phosphate binder was also common (n = 311, 76.0%). Regarding monitoring, 70.9% (n = 290) recommended that stable patients be reassessed every 2–3 months or more frequently, but only 35.7% (n = 146) were able to comply with this periodicity due to owners’ constraints.

Conclusions and relevance

The findings showed that although most survey respondents are aware of international guidelines for the clinical management of cats with CKD, the SBP measurement still needs to be more systematic to allow proper substaging and detection of systemic hypertension. The monitoring frequency was lower than recommended. Furthermore, the introduction of a renal therapeutic diet should be refined to improve its acceptance rate.
From Insight to Foresight: The Transformative Potential of the Futures Triangle
Authors: Cruz Shermon , Moura Nicole Anne , Lim Joanna Marie , Bulatao Michael Niel Angelo , Aguirre Ghelvin Auriele , Dela Paz Joel
Published: November 2023

The simplicity of the futures triangle as a foresight mapping methodology belies its brilliance to draw out complex phenomena and ingenious ways of seeing the future. In the hands of those who eagerly and sincerely wish to discover profound and authentic futures, the method provides an elegant way to surface the obscure and emergent conditions of change from the past, present, and the future. Apart from being a scanning technique for foresight practitioners to activate the future in the present, it bestows upon its users an introspective and experiential journey of flow against the riptides of inertia and the stagnancy of default. The futures triangle provides an anchor for understanding how the three facets of the future influence the way we imagine possibilities and infer meaning from the interplay of hindsight, insight, and foresight. As a tool for building foresight capacity, it increases the capability to map, make sense, and connect the drivers of change among three time horizons. Through analyzing and questioning the dynamics and tensions of change, issues are collectively framed and contextualized from the community’s perspective. The shared experience from participants of workshops and facilitated conversations accentuates the usefulness of foresight in their field of work through a better understanding of futures thinking, gaining through effort a panoramic future view of consequential issues, and realizing that enacting the future is a necessity. This reflective piece on the Futures Triangle shares the authors’ insights, cases, and views on the value and the futures of the method. It offers suggestions on how to thoughtfully facilitate a purposeful and enriching Futures Triangle workshop.
Perimenopausal women’s voices: How does their period at the end of reproductive life affect wellbeing?
Authors: Ray Elizabeth , Maybin Jacqueline A , Harper Joyce C
Published: November 2023

Objective

To explore perimenopausal women’s feelings towards their periods, the impact on their wellbeing and how we can support them.

Study design

Participants were recruited for focus groups through social media advertisements. In 6 online focus groups, 31 perimenopausal women aged 40–55 living in the UK were asked 5 questions relating to periods and perimenopause, support and education.

Main outcome measures

Content analysis.

Results

When asked How do you feel about having a period? The participants often related back to the stress of menarche and said their period negatively impacted their wellbeing their whole lives. During perimenopause, their periods had become unpredictable, heavy, and a debilitating disruption to their lives. The women desired support at work through policy, and from family and friends. They believed that educating girls and boys during school was the best place to start, but that education through work and community groups was also needed. They felt healthcare professionals should have mandatory training regarding women’s health issues and menopause.

Conclusion

The study highlights the impact of menstrual experiences on the wellbeing of perimenopausal women, emphasising the need for improved menstrual education from an early age. Comprehensive menstrual education in schools involving both genders to enable informed decision-making and improved training for healthcare professionals are recommended. Support networks for perimenopausal women will promote better quality of life for women as they go through their perimenopause journey.
Analysis of Personalized Interbody Implants in the Surgical Treatment of Adult Spinal Deformity
Authors: Smith Justin S. , Mundis Gregory M. , Osorio Joseph A. , Nicolau Rodrigo J. , Temple-Wong Michele , Lafage Renaud , Bess Shay , Ames Christopher P.
Published: November 2023

Study Design

Multicenter cohort.

Objectives

A report from the International Spine Study Group (ISSG) noted that surgeons failed to achieve alignment goals in nearly two-thirds of 266 complex adult deformity surgery (CADS) cases. We assess whether personalized interbody spacers are associated with improved rates of achieving goal alignment following adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

Methods

ASD patients were included if their surgery utilized 3D-printed personalized interbody spacer(s) and they met ISSG CADS inclusion criteria. Planned alignment was personalized by the surgeon during interbody planning. Planned vs achieved alignment was assessed and compared with the ISSG CADS series that used stock interbodies.

Results

For 65 patients with personalized interbodies, 62% were women, mean age was 70.3 years (SD = 8.3), mean instrumented levels was 9.9 (SD = 4.1), and the mean number of personalized interbodies per patient was 2.2 (SD = .8). Segmental alignment was achieved close to plan for levels with personalized interbodies, with mean difference between goal and achieved as follows: intervertebral lordosis = .9° (SD = 5.2°), intervertebral coronal angle = .1° (SD = 4.7°), and posterior disc height = −0.1 mm (SD = 2.3 mm). Achieved pelvic incidence-to-lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI-LL) correlated significantly with goal PI-LL (r = .668, P < .001). Compared with the ISSG CADS cohort, utilization of personalized interbodies resulted in significant improvement in achieving PI-LL <5° of plan ( P = .046) and showed a significant reduction in cases with PI-LL >15° of plan ( P = .012).

Conclusions

This study supports use of personalized interbodies as a means of better achieving goal segmental sagittal and coronal alignment and significantly improving achievement of goal PI-LL compared with stock devices.
Is Age a Risk Factor for Early Postoperative Cage Subsidence After Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion? A Retrospective Study in 170 Patients
Authors: Zhang Yuancheng , Nüesch Corina , Mündermann Annegret , Halbeisen Florian , Schären Stefan , Netzer Cordula
Published: November 2023

Study Design

Retrospective observational study.

Objectives

We aim to evaluate whether age is a risk factor for cage subsidence, and whether other patient characteristics, preoperative radiological or imaging parameters are associated with cage subsidence and the need for revision surgery in patients undergoing transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF).

Methods

Patient demographics and surgery-related information were extracted. Cage subsidence was evaluated using upright standing sagittal plane X-rays and defined as more than 2 mm migration of the cage into the adjacent vertebral body. Patients who received revision surgery within 1 year for any reason were recorded. Radiographic parameters were measured. Univariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the risk factors for cage subsidence and need for revision surgery.

Results

At 3-month and 1-year follow-up, cage subsidence was observed in 28 patients (16.5%) and 58 patients (34.1%), respectively. Twenty-seven patients received revision surgery within the first year after TLIF. Age (odds ratio (OR): 1.07 per year) and male sex (OR: 2.76) had a significantly increased odds ratio for cage subsidence 3 months after TLIF. Male sex (OR: 2.55) but not age was a significant risk factor for cage subsidence 1 year after TLIF. Of all assessed risk factors, only BMI (OR: 1.11 per kg/m2) had a significantly increased risk for the need of revision surgery.

Conclusions

Age was associated with cage subsidence 3 months but not 1 year after TLIF suggesting that age is only a risk factor for early cage subsidence and not in a longer follow-up.
The Foundations, Resilience and Spirit of Democratic Institutions
Authors: Sinha Shantha
Published: November 2023

In this modified lecture on the spirit of democracy and the importance of the constitution as a radical document, the author engages with the manner in which the struggle for independence resulted in the imagination of India as a sovereign, democratic and secular republic. Because this history is being systematically erased to create an alternate singular narrative of nationalism that is against the core constitutional values, there is a need to revisit the foundational values and emotions that gave rise to the democratic institutions and ensure that these processes are put to work through informed, organised and active citizen participation, keeping in view principles of equality and social justice. Active citizenship is indeed a powerful transformative force to expand and deepen democracy. The article details the reasons why the spirit of a democratic culture among citizens from the level of gram panchayats and municipalities to the district, state and national levels has the capacity to expose and resist the construction of Hindu nationalist hegemony, its falsity and authoritarianism.
Development of a predictive model to distinguish prostate cancer from benign prostatic hyperplasia by integrating serum glycoproteomics and clinical variables
Authors: Gabriele Caterina , Aracri Federica , Prestagiacomo Licia Elvira , Rota Maria Antonietta , Alba Stefano , Tradigo Giuseppe , Guzzi Pietro Hiram , Cuda Giovanni , Damiano Rocco , Veltri Pierangelo , Gaspari Marco
Published: November 2023

Background

Prostate Cancer (PCa) represents the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) serum testing, currently used for PCa screening, lacks the necessary sensitivity and specificity. New non-invasive diagnostic tools able to discriminate tumoral from benign conditions and aggressive (AG-PCa) from indolent forms of PCa (NAG-PCa) are required to avoid unnecessary biopsies.

Methods

In this work, 32 formerly N-glycosylated peptides were quantified by PRM (parallel reaction monitoring) in 163 serum samples (79 from PCa patients and 84 from individuals affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)) in two technical replicates. These potential biomarker candidates were prioritized through a multi-stage biomarker discovery pipeline articulated in: discovery, LC-PRM assay development and verification phases. Because of the well-established involvement of glycoproteins in cancer development and progression, the proteomic analysis was focused on glycoproteins enriched by TiO2 (titanium dioxide) strategy.

Results

Machine learning algorithms have been applied to the combined matrix comprising proteomic and clinical variables, resulting in a predictive model based on six proteomic variables (RNASE1, LAMP2, LUM, MASP1, NCAM1, GPLD1) and five clinical variables (prostate dimension, proPSA, free-PSA, total-PSA, free/total-PSA) able to distinguish PCa from BPH with an area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.93. This model outperformed PSA alone which, on the same sample set, was able to discriminate PCa from BPH with an AUC of 0.79.

To improve the clinical managing of PCa patients, an explorative small-scale analysis (79 samples) aimed at distinguishing AG-PCa from NAG-PCa was conducted. A predictor of PCa aggressiveness based on the combination of 7 proteomic variables (FCN3, LGALS3BP, AZU1, C6, LAMB1, CHL1, POSTN) and proPSA was developed (AUC of 0.69).

Conclusions

To address the impelling need of more sensitive and specific serum diagnostic tests, a predictive model combining proteomic and clinical variables was developed. A preliminary evaluation to build a new tool able to discriminate aggressive presentations of PCa from tumors with benign behavior was exploited. This predictor displayed moderate performances, but no conclusions can be drawn due to the limited number of the sample cohort.

Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD035935.
High-intensity interval training alleviates exhaustive exercise-induced HSP70-assisted selective autophagy in skeletal muscle
Authors: Lu Jiao , Zhang Liu-mei , Liu Jing-jing , Liu Yu-ting , Lin Xiao-ye , Wang Xue-qi , Zhang Yuan , Tang Qiang , Liu Lin
Published: November 2023

This study was designed to probe the effect of chaperone-assisted selective autophagy (CASA) on the maintenance of proteostasis during exhaustive exercise and uncover the alteration of CASA in muscle fibers with pre-high-intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention-induced muscle adaptation in response to exhaustive exercise. Rats were randomly divided into a control group; an exhaustive exercise group; and an HIIT + exhaustive exercise group. Results show myofibril damage and BiP levels were increased after exhaustive exercise, and the levels of the HSP70, BAG3, ubiquitin, autophagy-related proteins, and their interactions were increased. HIIT intervention before exhaustive exercise could decrease myofibril injury and BiP levels, accompanied by down-regulation of HSP70/BAG3 complex and selective autophagy. In conclusion, exhaustive exercise promotes CASA to clear protein aggregation for keeping proteostasis in muscle fibers; pre-HIIT intervention improves myofibril injury and unfold protein response caused by exhaustive exercise, which might contribute to inhibit the augmentation of CASA.
Mycorrhizas and Trichoderma fungi increase the accumulation of secondary metabolites in grain legume leaves and suppress foliar diseases in field-grown conditions of the humid forest of Cameroon
Authors: Jemo Martin , Nkenmegne Severin , Buernor Alfred Balenor , Raklami Anas , Ambang Zachee , Souleyamanou Adamou , Ouhdouch Yedir , Hafidi Mohamed
Published: November 2023

Background

Arbuscular mycorrhizal and Trichoderma fungi alter the synthesis of secondary metabolites of plants and confer tolerance from pathogens attacks. However, there is less supportive evidence from on-field studies confirming the above-mentioned hypothesis, particularly for the humid forest zone of Cameroon where pathogens are important sources of yield losses for legumes such as soybean and common bean.

Materials and methods

We evaluated the impacts of mycorrhiza isolates of Rhizophagus intraradices (Ri) and Trichoderma asperellum (Ta) fungi and their co-inoculations (Ta x Ri) in the synthetizing of leaves secondary metabolites, foliar disease symptoms, growth, N and P uptake, and yields of three genotypes of soybean (TGx 1485-1D, TGx 1990-93 F, and TGx 1990-97 F) and common beans (NUA-99, DOR-701, and PNN) under field conditions of Cameroon.

Results

We found that common bean plants showed a lower foliar infection rate but a higher increase in root colonization intensity, shoot dry weight, and N and P uptakes than soybeans when inoculated with Ri and Ta treatment. However, the grain yield of soybean soybean was higher (2000 kg ha 1) than the common bean plants for the Ri × Ta treatment. The soybean genotype TGx 1990-93F had increased root colonization intensity and the lowest foliar infection rate, making it stronger and tolerant to pathogen attacks when co-inoculated with Ri × Ta fungi (F). Bean plants inoculated with Ri and the co-inoculated with Ri × Ta demonstrated lower symptoms of foliar attack, and increased root colonization, particularly the PNN variety. The total amino acid and proline accumulations were higher for soybean than common bean plants due to fungi inoculations, and soybean genotypes accumulated more excellent contents of amino acid and proline in the control (10.1 mg g− 1 fwt) that significantly increased under the Ri × Ta inoculation (13.4 mg g− 1 fwt).

Conclusions

Common bean plants inoculated with Ta and Ri fungi accumulated higher phenolic compounds in their leaves that aided them in overcoming the pathogen attacks than soybean plants.
Ocular involvement in pediatric Behçet’s disease: is it different than in adults? (a short case series and mini review)
Authors: Azri Casem , Dusser Perrine , Eid Laura , Barreau Emmanuel , Kone-Paut Isabelle , Borocco Charlotte , Galeotti Caroline , Saad Sami , Labetoulle Marc , Rousseau Antoine
Published: November 2023

Background

Pediatric Behçet’s disease (PBD) is rarer than BD and can be a challenging diagnosis as clinical picture may be incomplete. As in adult patients, sight-threatening ocular manifestations may lead to diagnosis. In this study, we aimed to report a series of cases of PBD with ocular manifestations and provide a review of the literature.

Methods

Retrospective case series of PBD patients with ocular manifestations. Demographic, ophthalmological and systemic data at presentation and during follow-up were collected and analyzed.

Results

Four patients, aged 13.0 ± 2.9 years (9–16) were included. Posterior uveitis with retinal vasculitis, papillitis and macular edema was present in all patients, with associated anterior uveitis in 2 cases. Other features included occlusive vasculitis (2/4) and necrotizing retinitis (2/4). All patients were improved by systemic treatments except one patient with severe bilateral optic neuropathy. Ocular manifestations were the presenting symptoms in 3/4 cases.

Conclusion

Ocular manifestations and systemic associations of PBD are comparable to those encountered in adult patients. The lack of complains in pediatric patients may lead to a longer diagnosis delay, especially in unilateral uveitis. Aggressive and long-term treatment is mandatory to prevent vision loss and recurrences.
Correlation between refractive errors and ocular biometric parameters in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Zengrui , Mu Jingyu , Wei Jing , Geng Haoming , Liu Chunmeng , Yi Wenhua , Sun Yue , Duan Junguo
Published: November 2023

Background

Refractive errors are one of the most common ocular conditions among children and adolescents, with myopia showing an increasing prevalence and early onset in this population. Recent studies have identified a correlation between refractive errors and ocular biometric parameters.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in electronic databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Medline from January 1, 2012, to May 1, 2023. Various ocular biometric parameters were summarized under different refractive states, including axial length (AL), central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), corneal curvature (CC), Corneal curvature radius (CR),axial length-to-corneal radius ratio (AL/CR ratio), choroidal thickness (ChT), retinal thickness (RT), retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFL), and retinal blood density (VD). The differences in these parameters among different refractive states were analyzed using Stata software with fixed or random-effects models, taking into account the assessed heterogeneity level.

Results

This meta-analysis included a total of 69 studies involving 128,178 eyes, including 48,795 emmetropic eyes, 60,691 myopic eyes, 13,983 hyperopic eyes, 2,040 low myopic eyes, 1,201 moderate myopic eyes, and 1,468 high myopic eyes. The results of our study demonstrated that, compared to the control group (emmetropic group), the myopic group and low, moderate, and high myopic groups showed significant increases in AL, AL/CR ratio, and ACD, while the hyperopic group exhibited significant decreases. Compared to the control group, the myopic group had a significantly increase for CC, while CR, CCT, perifoveal RT, subfoveal ChT, foveal ChT, parafoveal ChT, perifoveal (except nasal) ChT, and pRNFL (except temporal) significantly decreased. Compared to the control group, the hyperopic group had a significantly increase for subfoveal ChT, foveal ChT, parafoveal ChT, perifoveal ChT, and nasal pRNFL. Compared to the control group, the low and moderate myopic groups had a significantly decreases for the CCT, parafoveal RT (except nasal), perifoveal RT (except nasal), and pRNFL (except superior and temporal). Compared to the control group, the high myopic group had a significantly increase for CR, while LT, perifoveal ChT (except nasal), parafoveal RT, perifoveal RT, and pRNFL (except temporal) had significant decreased.

Conclusion

The changes of ocular biometric parameters in children and adolescents are closely related to refractive errors. Ocular biometric parameters devices, as effective non-invasive techniques, provide objective biological markers for monitoring refractive errors such as myopia.
The chain mediating role of psychological resilience and neuroticism between intolerance of uncertainty and perceived stress among medical university students in Southwest China
Authors: Xu Xiaoxiao , Yan Xiaofan , Zhang Qianhui , Xu Chen , Li Min
Published: November 2023

Background

Medical university students are confronted with unprecedented uncertainty and stress compared with their peers. Research has explored the effect of intolerance of uncertainty on perceived stress, but little attention was paid to investigate the mediating mechanisms behind this relationship, especially among medical university students. The aim of this study was to examine whether psychological resilience and neuroticism played a mediating role between medical university students’ intolerance of uncertainty and perceived stress.

Methods

A total of 717 medical university students from Chongqing in Southwest China were recruited to participate in our study and completed demographic information, Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale Short Version (IUS-12), Chinese Version of Perceived Stress Scale (CPSS), Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale-10 (CD-RISC-10) and Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ).

Results

(1) Significant correlations between intolerance of uncertainty, perceived stress, psychological resilience and neuroticism were found. (2) Intolerance of uncertainty affected medical university students’ perceived stress via three paths: the mediating effect of psychological resilience, the mediating effect of neuroticism, and the chain mediating effect of both psychological resilience and neuroticism.

Conclusions

Intolerance of uncertainty could directly affect the perceived stress of medical university students, and also affected perceived stress through the mediating roles of psychological resilience and neuroticism, as well as through the chain mediating role of these two variables.
Neurophysiological explorations across the spectrum of psychosis, autism, and depression, during wakefulness and sleep: protocol of a prospective case–control transdiagnostic multimodal study (DEMETER)
Authors: Lucarini Valeria , Alouit Anaëlle , Yeh Delphine , Le Coq Jeanne , Savatte Romane , Charre Mylène , Louveau Cécile , Houamri Meryem Benlaifa , Penaud Sylvain , Gaston-Bellegarde Alexandre , Rio Stéphane , Drouet Laurent , Elbaz Maxime , Becchio Jean , Pourchet Sylvain , Pruvost-Robieux Estelle , Marchi Angela , Moyal Mylène , Lefebvre Aline , Chaumette Boris , Grice Martine , Lindberg Påvel G. , Dupin Lucile , Piolino Pascale , Lemogne Cédric , Léger Damien , Gavaret Martine , Krebs Marie-Odile , Iftimovici Anton
Published: November 2023

Background

Quantitative electroencephalography (EEG) analysis offers the opportunity to study high-level cognitive processes across psychiatric disorders. In particular, EEG microstates translate the temporal dynamics of neuronal networks throughout the brain. Their alteration may reflect transdiagnostic anomalies in neurophysiological functions that are impaired in mood, psychosis, and autism spectrum disorders, such as sensorimotor integration, speech, sleep, and sense of self. The main questions this study aims to answer are as follows: 1) Are EEG microstate anomalies associated with clinical and functional prognosis, both in resting conditions and during sleep, across psychiatric disorders? 2) Are EEG microstate anomalies associated with differences in sensorimotor integration, speech, sense of self, and sleep? 3) Can the dynamic of EEG microstates be modulated by a non-drug intervention such as light hypnosis?

Methods

This prospective cohort will include a population of adolescents and young adults, aged 15 to 30 years old, with ultra-high-risk of psychosis (UHR), first-episode psychosis (FEP), schizophrenia (SCZ), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and major depressive disorder (MDD), as well as healthy controls (CTRL) (N = 21 × 6), who will be assessed at baseline and after one year of follow-up. Participants will undergo deep phenotyping based on psychopathology, neuropsychological assessments, 64-channel EEG recordings, and biological sampling at the two timepoints. At baseline, the EEG recording will also be coupled to a sensorimotor task and a recording of the characteristics of their speech (prosody and turn-taking), a one-night polysomnography, a self-reference effect task in virtual reality (only in UHR, FEP, and CTRL). An interventional ancillary study will involve only healthy controls, in order to assess whether light hypnosis can modify the EEG microstate architecture in a direction opposite to what is seen in disease.

Discussion

This transdiagnostic longitudinal case–control study will provide a multimodal neurophysiological assessment of clinical dimensions (sensorimotor integration, speech, sleep, and sense of self) that are disrupted across mood, psychosis, and autism spectrum disorders. It will further test the relevance of EEG microstates as dimensional functional biomarkers.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT06045897.
Risk profiles for smoke behavior in COVID-19: a classification and regression tree analysis approach
Authors: Chen Jiangyun , Yang Jiao , Liu Siyuan , Zhou Haozheng , Yin Xuanhao , Luo Menglin , Wu Yibo , Chang Jinghui
Published: November 2023

Background

COVID-19 pandemic emerged worldwide at the end of 2019, causing a severe global public health threat, and smoking is closely related to COVID-19. Previous studies have reported changes in smoking behavior and influencing factors during the COVID-19 period, but none of them explored the main influencing factor and high-risk populations for smoking behavior during this period.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide survey and obtained 21,916 valid data. Logistic regression was used to examine the relationships between each potential influencing factor (sociodemographic characteristics, perceived social support, depression, anxiety, and self-efficacy) and smoking outcomes. Then, variables related to smoking behavior were included based on the results of the multiple logistic regression, and the classification and regression tree (CART) method was used to determine the high-risk population for increased smoking behavior during COVID-19 and the most profound influencing factors on smoking increase. Finally, we used accuracy to evaluated the performance of the tree.

Results

The strongest predictor of smoking behavior during the COVID-19 period is acceptance degree of passive smoking. The subgroup with a high acceptation degree of passive smoking, have no smokers smoked around, and a length of smoking of ≥ 30 years is identified as the highest smoking risk (34%). The accuracy of classification and regression tree is 87%.

Conclusion

The main influencing factor is acceptance degree of passive smoking. More knowledge about the harm of secondhand smoke should be promoted. For high-risk population who smoke, the “mask protection” effect during the COVID-19 pandemic should be fully utilized to encourage smoking cessation.
Association of oral care with periodontitis and glycemic control among US adults with diabetes
Authors: Zhang Yuqing , Leveille Suzanne G. , Camhi Sarah M. , Shi Ling
Published: November 2023

Background

Studies indicate that treating periodontitis may benefit glycemic control among people with diabetes. It is unclear whether oral self-care such as flossing may reduce risk for periodontitis and improve glycemic control among people with diabetes. The purpose of this study was to examine associations between oral care, specifically, flossing and preventive dental care, with periodontitis and glycemic control, among US dentate adults with diabetes.

Methods

We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2014 for 892 participants aged 30 years and older with diabetes who completed the periodontal examination and lab test for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Sampling weights were applied. Multivariable logistic regression and multivariable linear modeling were performed to examine the associations of flossing and preventive dental services on periodontal health and HbA1c levels, respectively, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviors, and other risk factors.

Results

Among U.S. dentate adults with diabetes, 52.1% of flossers and 72.1% of non-flossers had periodontitis (p < 0.001). Flossers were 39% less likely to have periodontitis (Adj. OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.43–0.88) compared to non-flossers. Flossers had an average HbA1c reading 0.30% (95% CI 0.02%—0.58%) lower than non-flossers, adjusted for covariates (p = 0.037). Preventive dental visits were associated with reduced risk for periodontitis (Adj. OR 0.54, 95%CI, 0.38–0.75) but not glycemic control.

Conclusion

Flossing was associated with periodontal health and glycemic control among US adults with diabetes. Although further research is needed, the findings support that oral self-care may be particularly beneficial for adults with diabetes.
Radiographic comparison of atelocollagen versus deproteinized bovine bone minerals covered with a collagen membrane in alveolar ridge preservation: a retrospective study
Authors: You Sha , Yu Fan , Fan Qihang , Xia Ting , Liang Liang , Yan Qi , Zeng Hao , Shi Bin
Published: November 2023

Background

Atelocollagen (AC) is a low-immunogenic collagen derivative with longer degradation time, which can be a suitable material for alveolar ridge preservation (ARP). However, there are few human studies on AC using for ARP. This research aims to radiographically evaluate the efficacy of AC in comparison to deproteinized bovine bone minerals covered with a collagen membrane (DBBM/CM) in ARP.

Methods

Medical records in the Implantology Department of the Hospital of Stomatology of Wuhan University were screened for patients who received flapless ARP using either AC or DBBM/CM. A total of 58 patients were included in this retrospective study. 28 patients were treated with AC, while 30 patients were used DBBM/CM. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans were taken before extraction and after 6 months of healing. To assess the dimensional change of the extraction sockets, the scanning data were output and transferred to the digital software to measure horizontal bone width change, vertical bone height change and bone volume change in region of interest. To evaluate the bone quality of healed sockets, the bone density of virtual implants was evaluated.

Results

The horizontal bone width changes at all five different levels showed no significant difference between the two groups. The largest horizontal bone width decrement in both groups occurred at the crest of ridge, which decreased 3.71 ± 1.67 mm in AC group and 3.53 ± 1.51 mm in DBBM/CM group (p = 0.68). At the central buccal aspect, the ridge height reduced 0.10 ± 1.30 mm in AC group, while increased 0.77 ± 2.43 mm in DBBM/CM group (p = 0.10). The vertical bone height differences between two groups showed no statistical significance. The percentages of volume absorption in AC group and DBBM/CM group were 12.37%±6.09% and 14.54%±11.21%, respectively. No significant difference in volume absorption was found (p = 0.36). The average bone density around virtual implants in AC group (649.41 ± 184.71 HU) was significantly lower than that in DBBM/CM group (985.23 ± 207.85 HU) (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

ARP with AC had a similar effect on limiting the dimensional alteration of alveolar ridge, when radiographically compared with DBBM/CM.
Influence of inorganic nanoparticles on dental materials’ mechanical properties. A narrative review
Authors: Naguib Ghada , Maghrabi Abdulrahman A. , Mira Abdulghani I. , Mously Hisham A. , Hajjaj Maher , Hamed Mohamed T.
Published: November 2023

Inorganic nanoparticles have been widely incorporated in conventional dental materials to help in improving their properties. The literature has shown that incorporating nanoparticles in dental materials in different specialties could have a positive effect on reinforcing the mechanical properties of those materials; however, there was no consensus on the effectiveness of using nanoparticles in enhancing the mechanical properties of dental materials, due to the variety of the properties of nanoparticles itself and their effect on the mechanical properties. This article attempted to analytically review all the studies that assessed the effect of different types of inorganic nanoparticles on the most commonly used dental materials in dental specialties such as polymethyl methacrylate, glass ionomer cement, resin composite, resin adhesive, orthodontic adhesive, and endodontic sealer. The results had shown that those inorganic nanoparticles demonstrated positive potential in improving those mechanical properties in most of the dental materials studied. That potential was attributed to the ultra-small sizes and unique physical and chemical qualities that those inorganic nanoparticles possess, together with the significant surface area to volume ratio. It was concluded from this comprehensive analysis that while a definitive recommendation cannot be provided due to the variety of nanoparticle types, shapes, and incorporated dental material, the consensus suggests using nanoparticles in low concentrations less than 1% by weight along with a silane coupling agent to minimize agglomeration issues and benefit from their properties.
Cross-cultural adaptation, validation and psychometric evaluation of the International Hip Outcome Tool 12 (iHOT12) to Hebrew
Authors: Steinfeld-Mass Yael , Ben-Ami Noa , Botser Itamar , Morgenstern David , Finestone Aharon S.
Published: November 2023

Background

The “International Hip Outcome Tool 12” (iHOT12) is a self-administered patient-reported outcome tool for measuring health-related quality of life and physical functioning in young and active patients with hip pathology. Since the iHOT12 has become widely used, we sought to translate and validate it for Hebrew-speaking populations. The aims of this study were: (1) To translate and culturally adapt the iHOT12 into Hebrew using established guidelines. (2) To test the new Hebrew version for validity, and (3) reliability.

Methods

The iHOT12 was translated and culturally adapted from English to Hebrew (iHOT12-H) according to the COSAMIN guidelines. For validity, the iHOT12-H and Western Ontario and McMaster universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) were completed by 200 patients with hip pathology. Exploratory factor analysis was used to assess structural validity. Subsequently, 51 patients repeated the iHOT12-H within a 2-week interval. Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), Cronbach alpha, and Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) were calculated to assess reliability.

Results

Construct validity: iHOT12-H correlated strongly to the WOMAC scores (r = -0.82, P < 0.001, Spearman). Factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.953 confirming internal consistency to be highly satisfactory. Test–retest correlation of the iHOT12-H was excellent with an ICC = 0.956 (95% CI 0.924–0.974). There was no floor or ceiling effect.

Conclusion

The iHOT12 Hebrew version has excellent reliability, good construct validity and can be used as a measurement tool for physical functioning and quality of life in young, physically active patients with hip pathology. This study will serve Israeli researchers in evaluating treatment effectiveness for these patients. Moreover, it will also enable multinational cooperation in the study of hip pathology.
The use of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs during radical resection correlated with the outcome in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Cai Renzhong , Liao Xuqiang , Li Gao , Xiang Jia , Ye Qianwen , Chen Minbiao , Feng Shouhan
Published: November 2023

Aims

The use of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is conventional in management of postoperative pain in cancer patients, and further investigations have reported that some of these drugs correlated with the outcome in cancers. However, the prognostic value of the use of NSAIDs during surgery in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients has been less addressed.

Methods

NSCLC patients staged I–III are retrospectively enrolled, and the data of the use of NSAIDs during surgery are collected. Patients are divided into two subgroups according to the use intensity (UI) (low or high) of the NSAIDs, which was calculated by the accumulate dosage of all the NSAIDs divided by the length of hospitalization. The differences of the clinical features among these groups were checked. And the disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) differences in these groups were compared by Kaplan–Meier analysis; risk factors for survival were validated by using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The UI was significant in predicting the DFS (AUC = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.57–0.73, P = 0.001) and OS (AUC = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.59–0.81, P = 0.001). Clinical features including type of resection (P = 0.001), N stages (P < 0.001), and TNM stages (P = 0.004) were significantly different in UI low (< 74.55 mg/day) or high (≥ 74.55 mg/day) subgroups. Patients in UI-high subgroups displayed significant superior DFS (log rank = 11.46, P = 0.001) and OS (log rank = 7.63, P = 0.006) than the UI-low ones. At last, the UI was found to be an independent risk factor for DFS (HR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.28–0.95, P = 0.034).

Conclusions

The use of NSAIDs during radical resection in NSCLC patients correlated with the outcome and patients with a relative high UI has better outcome.
Evaluating the effectiveness of Uganda’s Supranational TB Reference Laboratory quality management system training program
Authors: Dorothy Nakiwala , Niringiyimana Benjamini , Enock Wekiya , Guido Ocung , Joel Kabugo , Isa Adam , Katuramu Anita , Beatrice Orena , Korsah Christine Nansubuga , Kyomugasho Lillian , Oola Denis , Musisi Kenneth , Kim Eunjung , Yu Nayeong , Kaliisa Ruth , Lee Yeni , Kim Bounggui , Ronald Ssenyonga , Kiwanuka Noah , Achilles Katamba , Joloba Moses L.
Published: November 2023

Background

Achieving the targeted organizational goals through effective training can increase employee satisfaction. Since 2015, the Supranational Reference Laboratory Uganda (SRL Uganda) has trained National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratories (NTRLs) from 21 countries in a variety of areas that cover both technical and programmatic aspects pertinent to TB laboratories. The Laboratory Quality Management System (LQMS) under SRL coordinates actions intended to ensure sustained quality of the laboratory services offered by the National TB Reference Laboratories. In order for laboratory results to be helpful in a clinical or public health setting, they must be accurate, reliable, and timely. The LQMS course aims to provide learners with knowledge on how to attain and maintain this quality. Prior to this study, there was hardly any data available on the effectiveness of LQMS trainings provided by SRL Uganda; using Kirkpatrick model, which is popular among researchers for evaluating the efficacy of the training program, this paper seeks to establish the effectiveness of the LQMS training offered by the SRL Uganda.

Method

We evaluated the effectiveness of LQMS training within the Uganda’s SRL network for courses offered during the period 2017 and 2021 for participants from the Southern and East African sub-Saharan region.

Results

In 2017 and 2021, respectively, test results from 10/17 and 9/17 showed overall post-test scores above 80%. Of the 18 labs evaluated, 14 showed improvement; of these, 7 labs were from the Eastern region and the other 7 were from Southern Africa; one facility in this region also maintained its accreditation. In the post-evaluation assessment, attendees of the LQMS course gave feedback of strongly agree and agree variety.

Conclusion

More SRL Uganda network laboratories in the regions achieved a 5-star SLIPTA level rating and among these, 5 NTRLs got ISO 15189:2012 accredited by the end of 2021, while one maintained its accreditation status. This proves that the Laboratory Quality Management System training program was an effective tool in improving the quality of laboratory services, work practices, and processes.
Prevalence and determinants of condom use among the youth in Malawi: evidence from the 2015/16 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Jimu Scholastica Eunice , Ntoimo Lorretta F. C. , Okonofua Friday E.
Published: November 2023

Background

Unprotected sexual intercourse among the youth is common in Malawi. This has led to high rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and unplanned pregnancies. The study investigated the prevalence and the determinants of male and female condom use for the prevention of sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies among the youth in Malawi.

Methods

The 2015/2016 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey (MDHS) data were used among 15 to 24-year-old male and female who had sexual intercourse four months preceding the survey. A total of 1543 male and 5143 female were selected from 3226 male and 10,367 female respectively and analyzed with SPSS version 20 using.descriptive, bivariate, and logistic regression.

Results

The study found a low prevalence (27.1%) of condom use among the youth in the last sexual intercourse within four months before the survey. More male (55.8%) used condoms than female (18.5%). The significant predictors of condom use among the male and female youth were: being sexually active (OR 0.39 CI 0.33–0.47), aged 20–24 (OR 0.80 CI 0.68–0.95), ever married (OR 0.07 CI 0.06–0.08), coming from central region (OR 0.56 CI 0.40–0.77), and southern region (OR 0.59 CI 0.42–0.83), residing in the rural area (OR 0.74 CI 0.61–0.90) and ever tested of HIV (OR 1.29 CI 1.03–1.55).

Conclusion

Having established low prevalence of condom use among the youth in Malawi, there is a need to scale up programs and policies that target the youth to practice safe sex, which will assist in addressing the challenges of STIs, including HIV, and preventing unplanned pregnancies in Malawi.
Association of central sensitization, visceral fat, and surgical outcomes in lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: Ogon Izaya , Takashima Hiroyuki , Morita Tomonori , Fukushi Ryunosuke , Takebayashi Tsuneo , Teramoto Atsushi
Published: November 2023

Background

Controversy remains regarding predictors of surgical outcomes for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). Pain sensitization may be an underlying mechanism contributing to LSS surgical outcomes. Further, obesity is associated with dissatisfaction and poorer outcomes after surgery for LSS. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the relationship between central sensitization (CS), visceral fat, and surgical outcomes in LSS.

Methods

Patients with LSS were categorized based on their central sensitization inventory (CSI) scores into low- (CSI < 40) and high- (CSI ≥ 40) CSI subgroups. The participants completed clinical outcome assessments preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively.

Results

Overall, 60 patients were enrolled in the study (28 men, 32 women; mean age: 62.1 ± 2.8 years). The high-CSI group had significantly higher mean low back pain (LBP), leg pain, and leg numbness visual analogue scale (VAS) scores than the low-CSI group (p < 0.01). The high-CSI group had a significantly higher mean visceral fat area than the low-CSI group (p < 0.01). Postoperatively, LBP VAS score was significantly worse in the high-CSI group. Relative to preoperatively, postoperative leg pain and leg numbness improved significantly in both groups.

Conclusions

We believe that neuro decompression can be effective for LSS surgical outcomes in patients with CS; nonetheless, it should be approached with caution owing to the potential for worsening LBP. Additionally, visceral fat is an important indicator suggesting the involvement of CS.
Myocardial dysfunction assessed by speckle-tracking in good-grade subarachnoid hemorrhage patients (WFNS 1–2): a prospective observational study
Authors: de Courson Hugues , Chadefaux Grégoire , Loiseau Alexandre , Georges Delphine , Biais Matthieu
Published: November 2023

Background

Cardiac complications due to non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) are usually described using classical echocardiographic evaluation. Strain imaging appears to have better sensitivity than standard echocardiographic markers for the diagnosis of left ventricular dysfunction. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of cardiac dysfunction defined as a Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS) ≥  − 20% in patients with good-grade SAH (WFNS 1 or 2).

Methods

Seventy-six patients with good-grade SAH were prospectively enrolled and analyzed at admission for neurocritical care. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed on days 1, 3, and 7 after hemorrhage. Routine measurements, including left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), were performed, and off-line analysis was performed by a blinded examiner, to determine 2-, 3-, and 4-cavity longitudinal strain and left ventricular GLS. GLS was considered altered if it was ≥  − 20%, we also interested the value of ≥  − 17%. LVEF was considered altered if it was < 50%.

Results

On day 1, 60.6% of patients had GLS ≥  − 20% and 21.2% of patient had GLS ≥  − 17%. In comparison, alteration of LVEF was present in only 1.7% of patients. The concordance rate between LVEF < 50% and GLS ≥  − 20% and LVEF ≥ 50% and GLS <  − 20% was 46%.

Conclusion

Strain imaging showed a higher prevalence (60.6%) of left ventricular dysfunction during the acute phase of good-grade SAH (WFNS 1 or 2) than previously described.