bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capturing Fine-Grained Regional Differences in Language Use through Voting Precinct Embeddings
Authors: Rosenfeld Alex , Hinrichs Lars
Published: June 2023

Linguistic variation across a region of interest can be captured by partitioning the region into areas and using social media data to train embeddings that represent language use in those areas. Recent work has focused on larger areas, such as cities or counties, to ensure that enough social media data is available in each area, but larger areas have a limited ability to find fine-grained distinctions, such as intracity differences in language use. We demonstrate that it is possible to embed smaller areas, which can provide higher resolution analyses of language variation. We embed voting precincts, which are tiny, evenly sized political divisions for the administration of elections. The issue with modeling language use in small areas is that the data becomes incredibly sparse, with many areas having scant social media data. We propose a novel embedding approach that alternates training with smoothing, which mitigates these sparsity issues. We focus on linguistic variation across Texas as it is relatively understudied. We develop two novel quantitative evaluations that measure how well the embeddings can be used to capture linguistic variation. The first evaluation measures how well a model can map a dialect given terms specific to that dialect. The second evaluation measures how well a model can map preference of lexical variants. These evaluations show how embedding models could be used directly by sociolinguists and measure how much sociolinguistic information is contained within the embeddings. We complement this second evaluation with a methodology for using embeddings as a kind of genetic code where we identify “genes” that correspond to a sociological variable and connect those “genes” to a linguistic phenomenon thereby connecting sociological phenomena to linguistic ones. Finally, we explore approaches for inferring isoglosses using embeddings.
A Medieval Climate Anomaly: The Qarakhanid Adaptation
Authors: Misa Henry
Published: June 2023

A synthesis of paleoclimatic, archaeological, and literary evidence from Central Asia (Transoxiana and the Tarim Basin) during the tenth through twelfth centuries suggests that the Qarakhanid state adapted its hybrid economy to a unique climate regime characterized by drought created by the Medieval Climate Anomaly. To adapt, the Qarakhanids expanded the agricultural and pastoral sections of their economy into foothill and highland ecologies and used diplomacy to support a transregional trade network that helped to stimulate drought-stressed oasis economies on both sides of the Tian Shan. New methodological conclusions relevant for the study of interdisciplinary environmental history in general and for the historiography of premodern mobile pastoralist states in particular provide frameworks for future study.
Moderate Treadmill Exercise Improves Spinal Cord Injury Repair Administered with Carica Papaya Leaf Extract-Loaded Nanocomposite Hydrogel
Authors: Sun Shiwei , Zhang Tianlong , Zhou Wuling , Huang Haitian , Wang Minghai , Lyu Feizhou
Published: June 2023

In the current research, spinal cord injury was repaired through a moderate treadmill exercise and carica papaya leaf extract-loaded nanocomposite hydrogel. In vitro studies showed that the carica papaya extract-loaded nanocomposite hydrogel augmented the metabolic function of
the cells and showed a gradual degradation. In vivo study showed that the developed treatment strategy promoted spinal cord injury repair as shown in histopathological studies and BBB assay.
SPC25 Promotes the Proliferation and Migration of Esophageal Carcinoma by Activating the MAPK/ERK Pathway
Authors: Xiong Rongsheng , Xu Ke , Feng Xiaoyan
Published: June 2023

Our study investigated the role of SPC25 in the progression of esophageal carcinoma (ECa) and its association with clinical pathological indicators. We analyzed the expression of SPC25 in 50 ECa tumor tissues and adjacent tissues using qPCR analysis and found that SPC25 was significantly
up-regulated in ECa tissues. Moreover, patients with higher SPC25 expression had more advanced pathological stages and a higher incidence of lymph node metastasis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that knockdown of SPC25 reduced the migration ability and proliferation rate of ECa cells
and downregulated the MAPK/ERK pathway. We also found that SPC25 directly targeted MAPK3, which was confirmed by a luciferase assay. Furthermore, the administration of MAPK3 recombinant protein reversed the inhibitory effect of SPC25 knockdown on ECa cell proliferation and migration. Our findings
suggest that SPC25 may play a crucial role in enhancing the malignancy of ECa by activating the MAPK/ERK pathway. Overall, our study provides new insights into the potential mechanism underlying ECa progression and suggests that SPC25 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for ECa treatment.
The processes of engagement in information-seeking behavior for individuals with diabetes who developed diabetic foot ulcer: A constructivist grounded theory study
Authors: Costa Idevania G , Camargo-Plazas Pilar
Published: June 2023

To describe the process of engagement in information seeking behavior for individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Methodology

Constructivist grounded theory. The data was gathered through thirty semi-structured interviews of participants attending a wound care clinic in Southeast, Ontario, Canada. The waiting period taken to seek appropriate help varied from weeks to months.

Results

“The processes of engagement in information-seeking behavior about diabetes” are organized as follows: 1) discovering diabetes, 2) reactions to the diagnosis, and 3) engaging in self-directed learning. For most participants, the diagnosis of diabetes was unexpected and usually confirmed after a long period of experiencing a diversity of symptoms. The terms used mostly by participants were “I started to wonder” and “Something was wrong with me.” After being diagnosed with diabetes, participants sought information to learn about it. Most of them engaged in self-directed learning to acquire knowledge about their illness.

Conclusion

Although the Internet is often used to seek information, healthcare providers and support network also played an important role in supporting participants information-seeking behavior learn about diabetes. The unique needs of people with diabetes must be taken into consideration during their diabetes care journey. These findings call for the need to provide education about diabetes from the time they are diagnosed and direct them to reliable resources of information.
High-quality chromosome-level scaffolds of the plant bug Pachypeltis micranthus provide insights into the availability of Mikania micrantha control
Authors: Wang Xiafei , Zhao Ning , Cai Liqiong , Liu Naiyong , Zhu Jiaying , Yang Bin
Published: June 2023

Background

The plant bug,Pachypeltis micranthusMu et Liu (Hemiptera: Miridae), is an effective potential biological control agent forMikania micranthaH.B.K. (Asteraceae; one of the most notorious invasive weeds worldwide). However, limited knowledge about this species hindered its practical application and research. Accordingly, sequencing the genome of this mirid bug holds great significance in controllingM. micrantha.

Results

Here, 712.72 Mb high-quality chromosome-level scaffolds ofP. micranthuswere generated, of which 707.51 Mb (99.27%) of assembled sequences were anchored onto 15 chromosome-level scaffolds with contig N50 of 16.84 Mb. TheP. micranthusgenome had the highest GC content (42.43%) and the second highest proportion of repetitive sequences (375.82 Mb, 52.73%) than the three other mirid bugs (i.e.,Apolygus lucorum,Cyrtorhinus lividipennis, andNesidiocoris tenuis). Phylogenetic analysis showed thatP. micranthusclustered with other mirid bugs and diverged from the common ancestor approximately 200 million years ago. Gene family expansion and/or contraction were analyzed, and significantly expanded gene families associated withP. micranthusfeeding and adaptation toM. micranthawere manually identified. Compared with the whole body, transcriptome analysis of the salivary gland revealed that most of the upregulated genes were significantly associated with metabolism pathways and peptidase activity, particularly among cysteine peptidase, serine peptidase, and polygalacturonase; this could be one of the reasons for precisely and highly efficient feeding by the oligophagous bugP. micranthusonM. micrantha.

Conclusion

Collectively, this work provides a crucial chromosome-level scaffolds resource to study the evolutionary adaptation between mirid bug and their host. It is also helpful in searching for novel environment-friendly biological strategies to controlM. micrantha.
The completeness of the left atrial appendage amputation during routine cardiac surgery
Authors: Radakovic Dejan , Penov Kiril , Lazarus Marc , Madrahimov Nodir , Hamouda Khaled , Schimmer Christoph , Leyh Rainer G. , Bening Constanze
Published: June 2023

Background

Left atrial appendage (LAA) is the origin of most heart thrombi which can lead to stroke or other cerebrovascular event in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aimed to prove safety and low complication rate of surgical LAA amputation using cut and sew technique with control of its effectiveness.

Methods

303 patients who have undergone selective LAA amputation were enrolled in the study in a period from 10/17 to 08/20. The LAA amputation was performed concomitant to routine cardiac surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass with cardiac arrest with or without previous history of AF. The operative and clinical data were evaluated. Extent of LAA amputation was examined intraoperatively by transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Six months in follow up, the patients were controlled regarding clinical status and episodes of strokes.

Results

Average age of study population was 69.9 ± 19.2 and 81.9% of patients were male. In only three patients was residual stump after LAA amputation larger than 1 cm with average stump size 0.28 ± 0.34 cm. 3 patients (1%) developed postoperative bleeding. Postoperatively 77 (25.4%) patients developed postoperative AF (POAF), of which 29 (9.6%) still had AF at discharge. On 6 months follow up only 5 patients had NYHA class III and 1 NYHA class IV. Seven patients reported with leg oedema and no patient experienced any cerebrovascular event in early postoperative follow up.

Conclusion

LAA amputation can be performed safely and completely leaving minimal to no LAA residual stump.
External validation of the CREST model to predict early circulatory-etiology death after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest without initial ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Haxhija Zana , Seder David B , May Teresa L , Hassager Christian , Friberg Hans , Lilja Gisela , Ceric Ameldina , Nielsen Niklas , Dankiewicz Josef
Published: June 2023

Background

The CREST model is a prediction model, quantitating the risk of circulatory-etiology death (CED) after cardiac arrest based on variables available at hospital admission, and intend to guide the triage of comatose patients without ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This study assessed performance of the CREST model in the Target Temperature Management (TTM) trial cohort.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from resuscitated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients in the TTM-trial. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and CREST variables (history of coronary artery disease, initial heart rhythm, initial ejection fraction, shock at admission and ischemic time > 25 min) were assessed in univariate and multivariable analysis. The primary outcome was CED. The discriminatory power of the logistic regression model was assessed using the C-statistic and goodness of fit was tested according to Hosmer-Lemeshow.

Results

Among 329 patients eligible for final analysis, 71 (22%) had CED. History of ischemic heart disease, previous arrhythmia, older age, initial non-shockable rhythm, shock at admission, ischemic time > 25 min and severe left ventricular dysfunction were variables associated with CED in univariate analysis. CREST variables were entered into a logistic regression model and the area under the curve for the model was 0.73 with adequate calibration according to Hosmer-Lemeshow test (p = 0.602).

Conclusions

The CREST model had good validity and a discrimination capability for predicting circulatory-etiology death after resuscitation from cardiac arrest without ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Application of this model could help to triage high-risk patients for transfer to specialized cardiac centers.
Low appendicular skeletal muscle index increases the risk of carotid artery plaque in postmenopausal women with and without hypertension/hyperglycemia: a retrospective study
Authors: Lu Yayun , Tian Jianguang , Wu Liangyu , Xia Qing , Zhu Qinzhong
Published: June 2023

Background

This study aimed to evaluate whether the low appendicular skeletal muscle index (ASMI) is closely associated with the risk of carotid artery plaque (CAP) in postmenopausal women with and without hypertension/hyperglycemia stratified by body mass index (BMI) categories.

Methods

A total of 2048 Chinese postmenopausal women aged 40–88 years were eventually enrolled in this retrospective study. Skeletal muscle mass was estimated by using segmental multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis. ASMI was defined as follows: appendicular skeletal muscle mass(kg)/[height(m)]2. CAP was assessed by B-mode ultrasound. We explored the association between ASMI quartiles or low skeletal muscle mass and the risk of CAP by using multivariate-adjusted logistic regression models. A potential nonlinear relationship was also tested using restricted cubic spline regression.

Results

CAP was observed in 289/1074 (26.9%) normal-weight and 319/974 (32.8%) overweight/obese postmenopausal women. Individuals with CAP had significantly lower ASMI values than those without (P < 0.001). The ASMI value also showed a linear relationship with the CAP risk in postmenopausal women stratified by BMI category (Pfor non−linearity > 0.05). In comparison with the highest ASMI quartile, the lowest ASMI quartile was significantly associated with a high risk of CAP development in non-hypertensive individuals with normal weight (odds ratio [OR] = 2.43; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.44 ~ 4.12) or overweight/obesity (OR = 4.82, 95% CI: 2.79 ~ 8.33), hypertensive individuals with normal weight (OR = 5.90, 95% CI: 1.46 ~ 11.49) or overweight/obesity (OR = 7.63, 95% CI: 1.62 ~ 35.86), non-hyperglycemic individuals with normal weight (OR = 2.61, 95% CI: 1.54 ~ 4.43) or overweight/obesity (OR = 2.94, 95% CI: 1.84 ~ 4.70), and hyperglycemic individuals with normal weight (OR = 6.66, 95% CI: 1.08 ~ 41.10) or overweight/obesity (OR = 8.11, 95% CI: 2.69 ~ 24.49). Moreover, low skeletal muscle was independently associated with the risk of CAP in postmenopausal women, regardless of the BMI category.

Conclusion

ASMI was inversely associated with the risk of CAP development in postmenopausal women, especially in patients with high blood sugar and/or hypertension, indicating that skeletal muscle mass maintenance may contribute to prevention of CAP in postmenopausal women.
Evaluation of platelet parameters, coagulation markers, antiphospholipid syndrome, and thyroid function in palestinian women with recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Najjar Ayman A. , Hassouna Imam , Srour Mahmoud A. , Ibrahim Hany M. , Assi Randa Y. , Abd El Latif Heba M.
Published: June 2023

Background

Multiple etiologies contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) including immunological, endocrine, anatomical, genetic and infection but more than 50% of cases remain unexplained. Evidences of thrombotic and inflammatory processes were observed at maternal-fetal interface and considered pathological findings in most RPL cases including unexplained cases. This study aimed to evaluate the association between RPL and several risk factors: platelet parameters, coagulation factors, antiphospholipid syndrome, and thyroid function.

Methods

This is an unmatched case-control study that included 100 RPL and 100 control women. Anthropometric and health data were collected and a gynecologist examined participants to assure fitting the inclusion criteria. Platelet parameters [including Mean Platelet Mass (MPM), Concentration (MPC) and Volume (MPV)] and ratios (MPV/Platelet, MPC/Platelet, MPM/Platelet, Platelet/Mononuclear cells), coagulation markers [Protein C (PC), Protein S (PS), Antithrombin III, D-dimer], antiphospholipid antibodies [Anti-phospholipid (APA), Anti-cardiolipin (ACA) and anti-B2-glycoprotein 1], Lupus anticoagulant, Antinuclear antibodies, and thyroid function (Thyroid stimulating hormone and anti-thyroid peroxidase) were measured.

Results

Mean ages of cases and controls at marriage were 22.5 years for both, and their current ages were 29.4 and 33.0, respectively. 92% of cases and 99% of controls aged blow 30 years at marriage. 75% of cases have 3–4 miscarriages and 9% have ≥ 7 miscarriages. Our results indicated significantly lower male/female age ratio (p = .019), PC (p = .036) and PS (p = .025) in cases compared to controls. Plasma D-dimer (p = .020) and antiphospholipid antibodies [ACA (IgM and IgG), APA (IgM)] were significantly higher in cases compared to controls. No significant differences were observed between cases and controls concerning APA (IgG), anti-B2-glycoprotein 1 (IgM and IgG), Lupus anticoagulant, Antinuclear antibodies, platelet parameters, thyroid markers, family history of miscarriage, consanguineous marriage, and other health data.

Conclusions

This is the first study that investigated the association between platelet, coagulation, antiphospholipid, autoimmune and thyroid parameters, and RPL in Palestinian women. Significant associations between male/female age ratio, PC, PS, D-dimer, ACA (IgM, IgG), APA (IgM) and RPL were observed. These markers could be used in evaluating RPL. These findings confirm the heterogeneous nature of RPL and emphasize the need for further studies to find out risk factors for RPL.
Primary non-response to antiviral therapy affects the prognosis of hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Peng , Wang Xinhui , Liu Xiaoli , Yan Fengna , Yan Huiwen , Zhou Dongdong , Yu Lihua , Wang Xianbo , Yang Zhiyun
Published: June 2023

Background and aim

Although antiviral treatments have been shown to affect the recurrence and long-term survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who have high viral loads, the effect of different responses to antiviral therapy on the clinical outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the effect of primary non-response (no-PR) to antiviral therapy on the survival or prognosis of patients with HCC with a high load of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA.

Methods

A total of 493 HBV-HCC patients hospitalized at Beijing Ditan Hospital of Capital Medical University were admitted to this retrospective study. Patients were divided into two groups based on viral response (no-PR and primary response). Kaplan–Meier (KM) curves were used to compare the overall survival of the two cohorts. Serum viral load comparison and subgroup analysis were performed. Additionally, risk factors were screened and the risk score chart was created.

Results

This study consisted of 101 patients with no-PR and 392 patients with primary response. In the different categories based on hepatitis B e antigen and HBV DNA, no-PR group had a poor 1-year overall survival (OS). In addition, in the alanine aminotransferase < 50 IU/L and cirrhosis groups, primary nonresponse was related to poor overall survival and progression-free survival. Based on multivariate risk analysis, primary non-response (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.883, 95% CI 1.289–2.751, P = 0.001), tumor multiplicity (HR = 1.488, 95% CI 1.036–2.136, P = 0.031), portal vein tumor thrombus (HR = 2.732, 95% CI 1.859–4.015, P < 0.001), hemoglobin < 120 g/L (HR = 2.211, 95% CI 1.548–3.158, P < 0.001) and tumor size ≥ 5 cm (HR = 2.202, 95% CI 1.533–3.163, P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for 1-year OS. According to the scoring chart, patients were divided into three risk groups (high-, medium-, and low-risk groups) with mortality rates of 61.7%, 30.5%, and 14.1%, respectively.

Conclusions

The level of viral decline at 3 months post-antiviral treatment may predict the OS of patients with HBV-related HCC, and primary non-response may shorten the median survival time of patients with high HBV-DNA levels.
A randomized controlled trial using surgical gloves to prevent chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy by paclitaxel in breast cancer patients (AIUR trial)
Authors: Kang Young-Joon , Yoon Chang Ik , Yang Yun-Jung , Baek Jong Min , Kim Yong-Seok , Jeon Ye Won , Rhu Jiyoung , Yi Jae Pak , Kim Dooreh , Oh Se Jeong
Published: June 2023

Background

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common adverse effect of taxane treatment and can significantly affect patient quality of life. Currently, there are no effective treatments to alleviate symptoms of CIPN; thus, starting with prevention steps in high-risk patients is considered advantageous. However, for these prevention steps to be applicable to all patients, their side effects or accompanying discomforts should be minimal, and the intervention cost-effective. Compression therapy can be considered a prevention intervention, and using surgical gloves is feasible and cost-effective (approximately $0.6 per pair). Although previous studies on compression therapy using surgical gloves have reported decreased incidence of PN, these studies were non-randomized, limited to nab-paclitaxel treatment, and involved the use of small gloves, which may have caused discomfort. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the preventive effects of compression therapy using normal-sized surgical gloves on CIPN in patients treated with paclitaxel.

Methods

This clinical trial is designed to evaluate the preventive effects of compression therapy using surgical gloves on CIPN in women with stage II–III breast cancer who received paclitaxel chemotherapy for at least 12 weeks. This multicenter, randomized-controlled, open-label study will be conducted in six academic hospitals. Patients with medication or a medical history related to neuropathy or hand disease will be excluded. The primary outcome will be the preventive effect of compression therapy using surgical gloves, measured based on changes in the neurotoxicity component of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Taxane questionnaire. Furthermore, we will assess the National Cancer Institute’s Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events grade of CIPN after 6 months. Notably, the estimated sample size, based on a p-value < 0.025 and statistical power of 0.9, will consist of 104 patients (52 per group), accounting for a 10% sample loss.

Discussion

This intervention can be easily implemented in clinical practice and may serve as a preventive strategy for CIPNs with strong patient adherence. If successful, this intervention could improve the quality of life and treatment adherence in patients receiving chemotherapy that can induce PN, extending beyond paclitaxel treatment alone.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05771974; Registered on March 16, 2023.
Multimodal imaging of a micro-anatomical structure in the vitreous base
Authors: Han Liang , Ma Zhizhong
Published: June 2023

Background

To describe an ultrastructure in the vitreous base (VB) and its micro-anatomical characteristics by multimodal imaging.

Methods

Light and transmission electron microscopy of the VB were performed on specimens from post-trauma eyes and one healthy donor eye. Intra-operative fundus images associated with VB abnormalities were captured from 4 cases, including 2 retinal detachment (RD) with PVR eyes and 2 post-trauma eyes. Images during micro-anatomical observation of the three specimens were analyzed along with the fundus images obtained during vitrectomy.

Results

Densely packed collagen fibers were observed by light microscopy between the pigment epithelium layer and uveal tissue within the ora serrata region in specimen 1 and the post-mortem healthy eye, respectively. A similar structure was also observed by transmission electron microscopy interior to the pigment epithelium layer and exposed to the vitreous cavity in specimen 2. The collagen fibers, which were termed ciliary body-choroid-retina (CB-C-R) connector, connects to the vitreous fibers interiorly, ciliary epithelium anteriorly, peripheral retina posteriorly, and uveal tissue exteriorly. The three different RD boundaries related to the posterior edge of the VB, ora serrata, and ciliary epithelium are demonstrated with the micro-anatomical characteristics of the CB-C-R connector.

Conclusion

The CB-C-R connector exists deep in the VB.
Interventions to support mental health in people with long COVID: a scoping review
Authors: Al-Jabr Hiyam , Hawke Lisa D. , Thompson David R. , Clifton Andrew , Shenton Mark , Castle David J. , Ski Chantal F.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Long COVID (LC) is a multisystem disease with symptoms lasting weeks or months beyond the acute COVID-19 infection. Several manifestations are reported by people with LC, including effects on mental health, with varying degrees of psychological distress and disturbances to daily activities. Research conducted to identify effective interventions to support mental health among people with LC has been limited by the breadth and scope of studies.

Aim

This review aims to identify interventions being tested to support mental health of people with LC.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted by searching five databases for articles published between January 2020 and early October 2022 to identify research evaluating interventions focused on improving mental health symptoms associated with LC. Results from all sources were checked for eligibility by two reviewers, and agreements were resolved by discussion. Gray literature and reference list of included studies and relevant reviews were scrutinised to identify any additional studies. Data extraction was conducted by one reviewer and checked by another reviewer for accuracy.

Results

Of the 940 studies identified, 17 were included, the design of which varied but included mainly case studies (n = 6) and clinical trials (n = 5). Several interventions were described, ranging from single interventions (e.g., pharmacologic) to more holistic, comprehensive suites of services (pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic). Several mental health outcomes were measured, mostly anxiety and depression. All included studies were reported to be associated with improvements in participants’ mental health outcomes.

Conclusion

This scoping review identified studies reporting on a variety of interventions to support mental health among people with LC. Although positive changes were reported by all studies, some were case studies and thus their findings must be interpreted with caution. There is a need for more research to be conducted to identify the impact of interventions on mental health of people with LC.
Injection partnership characteristics and HCV status associations with syringe and equipment sharing among people who inject drugs
Authors: Mackesy-Amiti Mary Ellen , Boodram Basmattee , Page Kimberly , Latkin Carl
Published: June 2023

Background

Sharing of syringes is the leading transmission pathway for hepatitis C (HCV) infections. The extent to which HCV can spread among people who inject drugs (PWID) is largely dependent on syringe-sharing network factors. Our study aims to better understand partnership characteristics and syringe and equipment sharing with those partners, including measures of relationship closeness, sexual activity, and social support, as well as self and partner HCV status to better inform interventions for young urban and suburban PWID.

Methods

Data are from baseline interviews of a longitudinal network-based study of young (aged 18–30) PWID (egos) and their injection network members (alters) in metropolitan Chicago (n = 276). All participants completed a computer-assisted interviewer-administered questionnaire and an egocentric network survey on injection, sexual, and support networks.

Results

Correlates of syringe and ancillary equipment sharing were found to be similar. Sharing was more likely to occur in mixed-gender dyads. Participants were more likely to share syringes and equipment with injection partners who lived in the same household, who they saw every day, who they trusted, who they had an intimate relationship with that included condomless sex, and who provided personal support. PWID who had tested HCV negative within the past year were less likely to share syringes with an HCV positive partner compared to those who did not know their status.

Conclusion

PWID regulate their syringe and other injection equipment sharing to some extent by sharing preferentially with injection partners with whom they have a close personal or intimate relationship, and whose HCV status they are more likely to know. Our findings underscore the need for risk interventions and HCV treatment strategies to consider the social context of syringe and equipment sharing within partnerships.
Surgical timing prevails as the main factor over morphologic characteristics in the reduction by ligamentotaxis of thoracolumbar burst fractures
Authors: Cirillo Juan Ignacio , Farias Ignacio , Del Pino Cristóbal , Gimbernat Marcos , Urzúa Alejandro , Tapia Carlos , Zamorano Juan José
Published: June 2023

Background

thoracolumbar burst fractures are associated with spinal canal occupation. The indirect decompression of the spinal canal and reduction of the fragment can be achieved with the distraction of the middle column and ligamentotaxis. Nevertheless, the factors that influence the effectiveness of this procedure and its temporality are controversial.

Methods

The aim of this observational, cross-sectional study was to evaluate the effectiveness of indirect reduction by ligamentotaxis in thoracolumbar burst fractures according to the fracture’s radiologic characteristics and the procedure’s temporality. Patients diagnosed with a thoracolumbar burst fracture between 2010 and 2021 were submitted to indirect reduction by distraction and ligamentotaxis. A retrospective analysis of radiologic characteristics and temporality of the procedure was performed with an independent sample t-test or Pearson’s correlation coefficient, as required.

Results

A total of 58 patients were included in the analysis. Postoperatively, ligamentotaxis significantly improved all radiologic parameters (canal occupation, endplates distance, and vertebra height). Still, none of the radiological characteristics of the fracture (width, height, position, sagittal angle) were associated with the postoperative change in canal occupation. The endplates distance and the temporality of ligamentotaxis significantly predicted the reduction of the fracture.

Conclusion

Fragment reduction effectiveness is more significant when performed as early as possible and adequate distraction is achieved using the internal fixator system. The radiologic characteristics of the fractured fragment do not determine its reduction capacity.
Introduce an optimal method of ovarian stimulation in the polycystic ovarian syndrome affected: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yahyaei Azar , Vesali Samira , Ghaffari Firouzeh
Published: June 2023

Background

Currently, optimal method of ovarian stimulation (OS) to in-vitro fertilization (IVF) in the patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is unknown. The present research aims to study the efficiency of minimal-OS method in treatment of infertile patients with PCOS and also the effect of gonadotropin type (recombinant FSH (r-FSH) vs. urinary Human menopausal gonadotropin (u-HMG)) on treatment cycles with GnRH-antagonist.

Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, a total of 120 eligible patients were randomly allocated into four groups of OS to IVF: minimal-OS with r-FSH, minimal-OS with u-HMG, mild-OS with r-FSH and mild-OS with u-HMG. IVF outcomes of groups were analyzed statically.

Results

The statistical analysis showed that there were significant differences among groups regarding stimulation duration (p < 0.0001), number of retrieved oocytes (p < 0.0001), number of obtained embryos (p < 0.0001). There were no statistically significant differences in fertilization rate (p = 0.289) and implantation rate (p = 0.757) among our participants. There were also significant differences among these four groups in terms of clinical pregnancy rate (/ET and /cycles) (p < 0.0001, p = 0.021, respectively) and live birth rate/cycles (p < 0.0001). Also cases of freeze all embryos due to prevention of ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome (OHSS) (p = 0.004).

Conclusions

On the basis of present results the minimal-OS with u-HMG may be one of optimal methods of control OS in the patients with PCOS in respect to serum levels of estradiol on the day of triggering final oocyte maturation, total dose of prescribed gonadotropin, the optimal number of oocytes and embryos obtained, rate of clinical pregnancy and the incidence of OHSS risk.

Trial registration

NCT, NCT03876145. Registered 15/03/2019. Retrospectively registered, http://www.clinicaltrial.gov/ NCT03876145.
Towards a global partnership model in interprofessional education for cross-sector problem-solving
Authors: Ganotice Fraide , Zheng Binbin , Ng Pauline Yeung , Leung Siu Chung , Barrett Elizabeth Ann , Chan Hoi Yan Celia , Chan Chad W. N. , Chan Kit Wa Sherry , Chan Linda , Chan M. K. Karen , Chan Siu Ling Polly , Chan So Ching Sarah , Chan Esther W. Y. , Chen Julie , Cheuk Yuet Ying Jessica , Chong Yin Kei Doris , Chow Yin Man Amy , Chu Kwok Pui Jody , Chung Hon Yin Brian , Ho Shun Yee Amy , Jen Julienne , Jin Jingwen , Khoo Ui Soon , Lam Ho Yan Angie , Lam May P. S. , Lam Suk Fun Veronica , Lee Pamela Pui-Wah , Lee Jetty Chung-Yung , Leung Chung Yin Feona , Leung Anna K. Y. , Lin Xiang , Liu Rebecca K. W. , Lou Wei Qun Vivian , Luk Pauline , Ng Lai Han Zoe , Ng Yee Man Alina , Ng Tin Wai Terry , See Lok Man Mary , Shen Jiangang , Shen Xiaoai , Szeto Grace , Tam Eliza Y. T. , To Kelvin Kai-Wang , Tso Wan-Yee Winnie , Vackova Dana , Wang Ning , Wang Runjia , Wong Hoi Yan Gloria , Wong K. T. Janet , Wong M. Y. Anita , Wong Yuen Ha Janet , Yuen Kwan Yuk Jacqueline , Yuen Wai Yee Grace , Orlu Mine , Tipoe George L.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

A partnership model in interprofessional education (IPE) is important in promoting a sense of global citizenship while preparing students for cross-sector problem-solving. However, the literature remains scant in providing useful guidance for the development of an IPE programme co-implemented by external partners. In this pioneering study, we describe the processes of forging global partnerships in co-implementing IPE and evaluate the programme in light of the preliminary data available.

Methods

This study is generally quantitative. We collected data from a total of 747 health and social care students from four higher education institutions. We utilized a descriptive narrative format and a quantitative design to present our experiences of running IPE with external partners and performed independent t-tests and analysis of variance to examine pretest and posttest mean differences in students’ data.

Results

We identified factors in establishing a cross-institutional IPE programme. These factors include complementarity of expertise, mutual benefits, internet connectivity, interactivity of design, and time difference. We found significant pretest–posttest differences in students’ readiness for interprofessional learning (teamwork and collaboration, positive professional identity, roles, and responsibilities). We also found a significant decrease in students’ social interaction anxiety after the IPE simulation.

Conclusions

The narrative of our experiences described in this manuscript could be considered by higher education institutions seeking to forge meaningful external partnerships in their effort to establish interprofessional global health education.
Patient safety and sense of security when telemonitoring chronic conditions at home: the views of patients and healthcare professionals - a qualitative study
Authors: Ekstedt Mirjam , Nordheim Espen S. , Hellström Amanda , Strandberg Susanna , Hagerman Heidi
Published: June 2023

Background

Chronic diseases are increasing worldwide, and the complexity of disease management is putting new demands on safe healthcare. Telemonitoring technology has the potential to improve self-care management with the support of healthcare professionals for people with chronic diseases living at home. Patient safety threats related to telemonitoring and how they may affect patients’ and healthcare professionals’ sense of security need attention. This study aimed to explore patients’ and healthcare professionals’ experiences of safety and sense of security when using telemonitoring of chronic conditions at home.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty patients and nine healthcare professionals (nurses and physicians), recruited from four primary healthcare centers and one medical department in a region in southern Sweden using telemonitoring service for chronic conditions in home healthcare.

Results

The main theme was that experiences of safety and a sense of security were intertwined and relied on patients´ and healthcare professionals´ mutual engagement in telemonitoring and managing symptoms together. Telemonitoring was perceived to increase symptom awareness and promote early detection of deterioration promoting patient safety. A sense of security emerged through having someone keeping track of symptoms and comprised aspects of availability, shared responsibility, technical confidence, and empowering patients in self-management. The meeting with technology changed healthcare professionals’ work processes, and patients’ daily routines, creating patient safety risks if combined with low health- and digital literacy and a naïve reliance on technology. Empowering patients’ self-management ability and improving shared understanding of the patient’s health status and symptom management were prerequisites for safe care and the patient´s sense of security.

Conclusions

Telemonitoring chronic conditions in the homecare context can promote a sense of security when care is co-created in a mutual understanding and responsibility. Attentiveness to the patient’s health literacy, symptom management, and health-related safety behavior when using eHealth technology may enlighten and mitigate latent patient safety risks. A systems approach indicates that patient safety risks related to telemonitoring are not only associated with the patient’s and healthcare professionals functioning and behavior or the human-technology interaction. Mitigating patient safety risks are likely also dependent on the complex management of home health and social care service.
Experiences with the quality of telemedical care in an offshore setting – a qualitative study
Authors: Hellfritz Michael Stefan , Waschkau Alexander , Steinhäuser Jost
Published: June 2023

Background

The evaluation and the improvement of the quality of telemedical care become increasingly important in times where this type of care is offered to a broad number of patients more and more. As telemedical care in an offshore setting has already been in use for decades, analyzing the extensive experience of offshore paramedics using telemedical care can help identify determinants of quality. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore determinants of the quality of telemedical care using the experiences of experienced offshore paramedics.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative analysis of 22 semi-structured interviews with experienced offshore paramedics. The results were categorized in a hierarchical category system using content analysis as described by Mayring.

Results

All 22 participants were males, having a mean of 3.9 years of experience working with telemedicine support offshore. Generally, participants stated that for them telemedical interaction did not differ much from personal interaction. However, the offshore paramedics personality and way to communicate were mentioned to impact the quality of telemedical care as it influenced the way cases were presented. Furthermore, interviewees described it to be impossible to use telemedicine in cases of an emergency as it was too time-consuming, technically too complex, and lead to cognitive overload as other tasks with higher priority needed their attention. Three determinants of a successful consultation were mentioned: low levels of complexity in the reason for consultation, telemedical guidance training for the teleconsultant physician and for the delegatee.

Conclusion

Appropriate indications for telemedical consultation, communication training of consultation partners, and the impact of personality need to be addressed to enhance the quality of future telemedical care.
Single-cell expression profile of Drosophila ovarian follicle stem cells illuminates spatial differentiation in the germarium
Authors: Dong Zhi , Pang Lan , Liu Zhiguo , Sheng Yifeng , Li Xiaoping , Thibault Xavier , Reilein Amy , Kalderon Daniel , Huang Jianhua
Published: June 2023

Background

How stem cell populations are organized and regulated within adult tissues is important for understanding cancer origins and for developing cell replacement strategies. Paradigms such as mammalian gut stem cells and Drosophila ovarian follicle stem cells (FSC) are characterized by population asymmetry, in which stem cell division and differentiation are separately regulated processes. These stem cells behave stochastically regarding their contributions to derivative cells and also exhibit dynamic spatial heterogeneity. Drosophila FSCs provide an excellent model for understanding how a community of active stem cells maintained by population asymmetry is regulated. Here, we use single-cell RNA sequencing to profile the gene expression patterns of FSCs and their immediate derivatives to investigate heterogeneity within the stem cell population and changes associated with differentiation.

Results

We describe single-cell RNA sequencing studies of a pre-sorted population of cells that include FSCs and the neighboring cell types, escort cells (ECs) and follicle cells (FCs), which they support. Cell-type assignment relies on anterior–posterior (AP) location within the germarium. We clarify the previously determined location of FSCs and use spatially targeted lineage studies as further confirmation. The scRNA profiles among four clusters are consistent with an AP progression from anterior ECs through posterior ECs and then FSCs, to early FCs. The relative proportion of EC and FSC clusters are in good agreement with the prevalence of those cell types in a germarium. Several genes with graded profiles from ECs to FCs are highlighted as candidate effectors of the inverse gradients of the two principal signaling pathways, Wnt and JAK-STAT, that guide FSC differentiation and division.

Conclusions

Our data establishes an important resource of scRNA-seq profiles for FSCs and their immediate derivatives that is based on precise spatial location and functionally established stem cell identity, and facilitates future genetic investigation of regulatory interactions guiding FSC behavior.
A genderful research world: rapid review, design, and pilot study of an interactive platform for curated sex and gender health research resources
Authors: Göttgens Irene , Sleutjes Jasmijn A.M. , Boerner Katelynn E. , Sialino Lena D. , Valdrighi Natália
Published: June 2023

Background

Integration of sex and gender into health research is best practice for designing and conducting equitable, rigorous scientific research. Many evidence-based resources exist to support researchers in this endeavour, but such resources often remain underutilized as they are difficult to find, are not publicly accessible, or are specific to a particular research phase, context, or population. The development and evaluation of a repository of resources was deemed important to create an accessible platform for promoting sex- and gender-integration in health research.

Methods

A rapid review was conducted of critical resources for conducting sex and gender health research. These were integrated into a prototype website design (the Genderful Research World; GRW) that provided an interactive digital landscape for researchers to access these resources. A pilot study evaluated the GRW website for applicability, desirability, and usability with an international sample of 31 health researchers from various disciplines and career stages. Quantitative data from the pilot study was summarized with descriptive statistics. Qualitative data was summarized narratively and used to identify concrete elements for improvement in a second design iteration.

Results

Results of the pilot study revealed that the GRW was considered user friendly and desirable by health researchers and helped them access relevant information. Feedback suggested that providing these resources in a playful way may enhance the experience of the user, particularly given the high ‘desirability’ scores and that users emphasized the interactive layout as being key to their intention to integrate it into their teaching endeavors. Key feedback from the pilot study (e.g., addition of resources specific to research with transgender populations, revision of website layout) was integrated into the current version of the website: www.genderfulresearchworld.com.

Conclusions

The present research suggests a utility for a repository of resources for integrating sex and gender considerations into research, and that providing a logical, intuitive means of cataloguing and navigating such resources is critical for usability. The results of this study may inform the development of other novel researcher-directed resource curation efforts to address health equity issues and encourage and support health researchers to integrate a sex and gender perspective in their work.