bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seclusion as a coercive measure in suicidality – daily routine or exception?
Authors: Gavrilovic Haustein Natalija , Freudiger Maurice , Hunziker Anna , Hepp Urs , Jellestad Lena , von Känel Roland , Stulz Niklaus
Published: June 2022

Background

Coercive measures continue to be an important topic in psychiatry. However, there is no proof of the effectiveness of the use of coercive measures, especially with suicidal people. For many years, attempts have been made to replace such measures with alternative noncoercive intervention options. This paper aims to clarify the situation of coercive measures, more precisely seclusions, in a general psychiatric hospital in Switzerland. It focuses on compulsory measures in patients with suicidal tendencies.

Method

In this single-centre retrospective cohort study, we used routinely collected medical data and performed qualitative analyses of medical histories to examine whether alternative measures to seclusion had been offered and/or provided to patients who had been secluded solely because of suicidality. Patients were aged 18–65 years and had received inpatient treatment at one of five adult acute care units at a general psychiatric hospital in Switzerland between September 2016 and December 2019.

Results

There were 5,935 inpatient treatment cases during the study period. Suicidality was rated as “acute” or “very high” at least once during the hospitalization in 219 (3.7%) cases. Of these, 60 were excluded from further analyses as they involved seclusion, but suicidality was not the exclusive indication for this measure. Coercive seclusion was imposed exclusively due to suicidality in 53 (33.3%) of the remaining 159 cases, whereas 106 (66.7%) cases were not secluded. The rates of seclusion among suicidal patients varied considerably between the hospital wards (13.0% to 55.3%). Suicidal patients with non-Swiss residence status and/or lacking language skills were particularly prone to be secluded. Additionally, alternative interventions were offered and provided significantly more frequently in the nonsecluded patients.

Conclusions

To avoid seclusion due to suicidal tendencies, it is necessary to have a general attitude of avoiding coercive measures at all costs. It is also important for qualified staff to be able to deal with challenging sociodemographic characteristics of patients such as foreign-language, which may require translators and intercultural interpreters.
Mental health-related communication in a virtual community: text mining analysis of a digital exchange platform during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Golz C. , Richter D. , Sprecher N. , Gurtner C.
Published: June 2022

Background

Virtual communities played an important role in mental health and well-being during the Covid-19 pandemic by providing access to others and thereby preventing loneliness. The pandemic has accelerated the urge for digital solutions for people with pre-existing mental health problems. So far, it remains unclear how the people concerned communicate with each other and benefit from peer-to-peer support on a moderated digital platform.

Objective

The aim of the project was to identify and describe the communication patterns and verbal expression of users on the inCLOUsiv platform during the first lockdown in 2020.

Methods

Discussions in forums and live chats on inCLOUsiv were analysed using text mining, which included frequency, correlation, n-gram and sentiment analyses.

Results

The communication behaviour of users on inCLOUsiv was benevolent and supportive; and 72% of the identified sentiments were positive. Users addressed the topics of ‘corona’, ‘anxiety’ and ‘crisis’ and shared coping strategies.

Conclusions

The benevolent interaction between users on inCLOUsiv is in line with other virtual communities for Covid-19 and the potential for peer-to-peer support. Users can benefit from each other’s experiences and support each other. Virtual communities can be used as an adjuvant to existing therapy, particularly in times of reduced access to local health services.
Innovative perception analysis of HIV prevention messaging for black women in college: a proof of concept study
Authors: Chandler Rasheeta , Ross Henry , Guillaume Dominique
Published: June 2022

Background

Black women in college are disproportionately affected by HIV, but have not been a population of focus for HIV prevention campaigns. This study used content from a preexisting HIV media campaign to assess its relevancy and acceptability among Black women in college.

Methods

Media viewing and listening sessions were convened with Black women enrolled at an HBCU (n = 10) using perception analyzer technology—hardware and software tools that are calibrated to gather and interpret continuous, in-the-moment feedback. Matched pre-and-post-test responses from focus groups were obtained from the perception analyzer data. Descriptive statistics and t-tests were used to characterize the data.

Results

Students were more likely to personally identify with media content that included profound statements, along with memorable people and actors [95% CI: 1.38, 2.27]. In over half of the vignettes, participants reported that content representing students’ society, culture, or interests was missing.

Conclusions

HIV prevention media campaigns may offer potential in increasing HIV awareness and risk perceptions; further research is needed to evaluate optimal content tailoring for both cultural and climate relevancy.
Early prediction of ventilator-associated pneumonia in critical care patients: a machine learning model
Authors: Liang Yingjian , Zhu Chengrui , Tian Cong , Lin Qizhong , Li Zhiliang , Li Zhifei , Ni Dongshu , Ma Xiaochun
Published: June 2022

Background

This study was performed to develop and validate machine learning models for early detection of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) 24 h before diagnosis, so that VAP patients can receive early intervention and reduce the occurrence of complications.

Patients and methods

This study was based on the MIMIC-III dataset, which was a retrospective cohort. The random forest algorithm was applied to construct a base classifier, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity of the prediction model were evaluated. Furthermore, We also compare the performance of Clinical Pulmonary Infection Score (CPIS)-based model (threshold value ≥ 3) using the same training and test data sets.

Results

In total, 38,515 ventilation sessions occurred in 61,532 ICU admissions. VAP occurred in 212 of these sessions. We incorporated 42 VAP risk factors at admission and routinely measured the vital characteristics and laboratory results. Five-fold cross-validation was performed to evaluate the model performance, and the model achieved an AUC of 84% in the validation, 74% sensitivity and 71% specificity 24 h after intubation. The AUC of our VAP machine learning model is nearly 25% higher than the CPIS model, and the sensitivity and specificity were also improved by almost 14% and 15%, respectively.

Conclusions

We developed and internally validated an automated model for VAP prediction using the MIMIC-III cohort. The VAP prediction model achieved high performance based on its AUC, sensitivity and specificity, and its performance was superior to that of the CPIS model. External validation and prospective interventional or outcome studies using this prediction model are envisioned as future work.
Development a new chewing problem directory and its validation for Korean elders
Authors: Vu Huong , Lee Jong-Koo , Kim Hyun-Duck
Published: June 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to develop a new chewing problem directory (CPD) and validate it with oral health indicators such as total occlusion force, number of natural and rehabilitated teeth (NRT), NRT posterior, natural teeth, natural teeth posterior, and dental status among Korean elders.

Background

Chewing problem is the main oral health problem in elders. However, there has been no validated tool using both subjective and objective assessment of chewing problem.

Subjects and methods

A total of 537 participants aged 65 years or more were randomly assigned into 2 subsamples: developing sample (n = 260) for developing and internally validating the new CPD as the 1st stage and confirmation sample (n = 277) for confirming validation of CPD as the 2nd stage. CPD was developed using three subjective questionnaires (general eating, chewing nuts, and chewing meat problem) and objective NRT. Periodontitis, age, sex, education, smoking, alcohol drinking, metabolic syndrome, and frailty were considered as confounders. Following the development of CPD, CPD was validated using multiple multivariable logistic regression after controlling for confounders in confirmation sample and total sample.

Results

The Cronbach’s alpha value for three subjective questionnaires of CPD was 0.87. Among oral health indicators, NRT (0–28) showed the highest impact association with subjective chewing problem score (partial r = − 0.276). The chewing problem from the new CPD was associated with all items of oral health indicators. The prevalence of chewing problems by CPD was 57.7% in developing sample. Elders with NRT ≤ 24, compared with those with NRT ≥ 25, showed the highest impact on chewing problems by new CPD (Odds Ratio = 7.3 in the confirmation sample and 5.04 in the total sample, p < 0.05) among oral health indicators.

Conclusion

This new CPD was developed as a valid tool to evaluate the chewing problem for Korean elders in dental clinics and community-based settings.
Partner support and women's contraceptive use: insight from urban poor communities in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Agyekum Martin Wiredu , Henry Elizabeth G. , Kushitor Mawuli Komla , Obeng-Dwamena Akua Danquah , Agula Caesar , Opoku Asuming Patrick , Toprah Theophilus , Agyei-Asabere Charles , Shah Iqbal , Bawah Ayaga A.
Published: June 2022

Background

Despite the benefits associated with contraceptive use, there is a low prevalence of contraceptive use in sub-Saharan Africa and Ghana. Previous studies have partly and consistently attributed the low prevalence of contraceptive use to partner opposition. However, little is known about the influence of men in contraceptive related choices of their partners, particularly within the context of urban poverty. This study examines the influences of partners on women’s contraceptive choices.

Methods

The study utilized a cross-sectional household survey data of 1578 currently married women and women in a union of reproductive ages 16–44 years. Women who were pregnant and those trying to be pregnant were excluded from the analysis. The dependent variables for the study were current use of any contraceptive method, types of contraceptive methods and types of modern contraceptive methods. The independent variable for the study was a woman’s report of partner support in contraceptive related choices. A binary logistic regression model was used to examine the associations between partner support in contraceptive related choices and contraceptive use of women.

Results

The results of the study show that partner support of contraceptive related choices has a significant influence on contraceptive use of women. Women who indicated support from their partners were more likely to be current users of any contraceptive method, yet were less likely to use modern contraceptive methods.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need to involve men in family planning programs and research, as well as educating them on the various contraceptive modern methods and the side effects.
Fermented Mentha arvensis administration provides neuroprotection against transient global cerebral ischemia in gerbils and SH-SY5Y cells via downregulation of the MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Islam Md Sadikul , Shin Ha-Young , Yoo Yeo-Jin , Lee Eui-Yong , Kim Ryunhee , Jang Young-Jin , Akanda Md Rashedunnabi , Tae Hyun-Jin , Kim In-Shik , Ahn Dongchoon , Park Byung-Yong
Published: June 2022

Background

Globally, ischemic stroke is a major health threat to humans that causes lifelong disability and death. Mentha arvensis (MA) has been used in traditional medicine to alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation-related disorders. In the present study, the neuroprotective properties of fermented MA (FMA) extract were investigated in the gerbil and SH-SY5Y cells. model of transient global cerebral ischemia.

Methods

Bilateral common carotid artery occlusion-induced transient global cerebral ischemia in gerbil and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-mediated neurotoxic effects in human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y) were investigated. FMA (400 mg/kg) was orally administered for 7 days before induction of ischemic stroke. To evaluate the neuroprotective activity of FMA, we implemented various assays such as cell viability assay (MTT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, histopathology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), histofluorescence, and western blot.

Results

FMA pretreatment effectively decreased transient ischemia (TI) induced neuronal cell death as well as activation of microglia and astrocytes in the hippocampal region. The protective effects of FMA extract against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity of SH-SY5Y cells were observed by MTT and LDH assay. However, FMA pretreatment significantly increased the expression of the antioxidant marker proteins such as superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD-1) and superoxide dismutase-2 (SOD-2) in the hippocampus and SH-SY5Y cells. Furthermore, the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) further activated a cascade of outcomes such as neuroinflammation and apoptosis. FMA pretreatment notably decreased TI and H2O2 induced activation of MAPK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), and p38) proteins in hippocampus and SH-SY5Y cells respectively. Besides, pretreatment with FMA markedly reduced H2O2 mediated Bax/Bcl2 expression in SH-SY5Y cells.

Conclusion

Thus, these results demonstrated that neuroprotective activities of FMA might contribute to regulating the MAPK signaling pathway.
Quality of life among health care workers with and without prior COVID-19 infection in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Mahfil Ara , Sagar Soumik Kha , Dalal Koustuv , Barsha Sabrina Yesmin , Ara Tasnim , Khan Md Abdullah Saeed , Saha Shuvajit , Sarmin Tanjina , Hossian Mosharop , Nabi Mohammad Hayatun , Rahman Mohammad Lutfor , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain
Published: June 2022

Background

Health care workers have been facing difficulties in coping with the COVID-19 infection from the beginning. The study aimed to compare Quality of Life (QOL) among health care workers (HCWs) with and without prior COVID-19 disease.

Methods

This study was conducted from July 2020 to January 2021 among 444 HCWs. We randomly interviewed 3244 participants for our earlier nationwide survey from a list of COVID-19 positive cases after their recovery, and we found 222 HCWs among the respondents. We randomly chose 222 HCWs unaffected by COVID as a comparison group from our selected hospitals. We measured QOL using World Health Organization’s WHOQOL-BREF tool. Physical, psychological, environmental, and social ties were the four areas assessed on a 5-point Likert scale where a higher score suggests better QOL. Due to pandemic restrictions, we used telephonic interviews for data collection.

Results

A higher QOL score was observed in HCWs with prior COVID-19 infection in all four domains than HCWs without previous COVID-19 conditions. Comorbidity was negatively associated with QOL scores of the physical (p = 0.001) and (p < 0.001) and psychological (p = 0.05, and (p < 0.05) domains for non-COVID and COVID-affected groups, respectively. Current smoking was significantly associated with lower psychological (p = 0.019) and environmental (p = 0.007) QOL scores among HCWs with prior COVID-19 infection. Hospitalization history due to COVID infection was a contributing factor for lower physical QOL scores (p = 0.048). Environmental (p = 0.016) QOL scores were significantly associated with the monthly income in the prior COVID-19 infection group, and physical scores were significantly associated (p = 0.05) with a monthly income in the non-COVID group.

Conclusion

Governmental and non-governmental stakeholders should focus on potentially modifiable factors to improve health care workers’ quality of life.
Pilot study of a culturally sensitive intervention to promote genetic counseling for breast cancer risk
Authors: Henderson Vida , Madrigal Jessica M. , Kendall Le’ Chaun , Parekh Pooja , Newsome Jennifer , Chukwudozie Ifeanyi Beverly , Comer-Hagans De Lawnia , Coffey Vickii , Grumbach Giesela , Spencer Shirley , Rodgers Carolyn , Kaur Ravneet , Balay Lara , Maga Tara , Ramamonjiarivelo Zo , Balthazar Catherine , Winn Robert , Watson Karriem , Odoms-Young Angela , Hoskins Kent F.
Published: June 2022

Background

Despite the benefits of genetic counseling and testing, uptake of cancer genetic services is generally low and Black/African American (Black) women are substantially less likely to receive genetic services than non-Hispanic White women. Our team developed a culturally sensitive, narrative decision aid video to promote uptake of genetic counseling among Black women at risk for a hereditary breast cancer syndrome that can be incorporated in conjunction with population-based cancer risk assessment in a clinical setting. We report here a pilot study to demonstrate changes in intention to access genetic counseling and intervention satisfaction.

Methods

Black women who were personally unaffected by breast cancer and were recommended for genetic counseling based on family history screening in a mammography center were recruited at the time of the mammogram. A prospective, pre-post survey study design, guided by theoretical constructs, was used to evaluate baseline and immediate post-intervention psychosocial factors, including intention to participate in genetic counseling and intervention satisfaction.

Results

Pilot recruitment goals were met (n = 30). Pre-intervention, 50% of participants indicated that they were extremely likely to make a genetic counseling appointment, compared with 70% post-intervention (p = 0.05). After watching the intervention, 50% of participants indicated that the video changed their mind regarding genetic counseling.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated cultural satisfaction with a decision aid intervention designed to motivate Black women with hereditary breast cancer risk to attend a genetic counseling appointment. Our study showed that intention may be a specific and key construct to target in interventions designed to support decision-making about genetic services. Study results informed the design of a subsequent large scale, randomized implementation study.

Trial registration

Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.govNCT04082117.

Registered September 9, 2019.

Retrospectively registered.
The use of formal care for dementia from a professional perspective: a scoping review
Authors: Bergmann Stefanie , Peper Julia , Bieber Anja
Published: June 2022

Background and objectives

The progressive character of dementia usually leads to a continuously increasing need for support. There is some evidence of late use of professional support during the disease course. We aim to provide an overview of aspects influencing access and use of formal care in dementia from the perspective of health and social care professionals. Additionally, the perspectives of professionals and people with dementia/informal carers will be compared.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review with a systematic literature search in Medline via Ovid in January 2019 and updated this in April 2020 and in May 2021. Publications were considered eligible when focusing on influencing aspects of the use of formal care or support for people with dementia in an outpatient setting from the perspective of health professionals. Included publications were critically appraised using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool. We identified aspects of access to and use of formal care and support services. A consultation exercise with three specialised trained dementia care nurses was conducted to validate our results.

Results

We included 29 studies: n = 20 qualitative, n = 6 quantitative-descriptive, n = 3 mixed-methods. Various support services were identified, but a focus was on services for diagnostic and treatment of dementia. A wide range of influencing aspects (n = 15) describe the access to and use of formal care services. Aspects related to the complexity and structure of the healthcare system and the competence of professionals were frequently addressed. Second, attitudes and expectations of professionals, and experiences with people with dementia and their informal carers were identified. The dementia care nurses highlighted the importance of coordinated care to enhance dementia-specific competencies.

Conclusions

Health and social care professionals still describe barriers in accessing and using formal care due to various influences. Ways to improve access to and use of professional support in dementia should consider individual and system-level activities, as well as overarching aspects. Important topics are therefore education and training of professionals and coordinated dementia-specific care to provide adequate support for people with dementia and their relatives. Several professions may be involved in this increasingly important field, e.g., nurses with a dementia-specific training like dementia care nurses.
SR5AL serves as a key regulatory gene in lycopene biosynthesis by Blakeslea trispora
Authors: Wang Qiang , Chen Yulong , Yang Qingxiang , Zhao Jihong , Feng Lingran , Wang Min
Published: June 2022

Background

Trisporic acids are considered to be key regulators of carotenoid biosynthesis and sexual reproduction in zygomycetes, but the mechanisms underlying this regulation have not been fully elucidated.

Results

In this study, the relationships between trisporic acids and lycopene synthesis were investigated in Blakeslea trispora. The lycopene concentration in single fermentation by the (−) strain with the addition of 24 μg/L trisporic acids was slightly higher than that observed in mated fermentation. After transcriptomic analysis, a steroid 5α-reductase-like gene, known as SR5AL in B. trispora, was first reported. 5α-Reductase inhibitors reduced lycopene biosynthesis and downregulated the expression of sex determination and carotenoid biosynthesis genes. Overexpression of the SR5AL gene upregulated these genes, regardless of whether trisporic acids were added.

Conclusion

These findings indicated that the SR5AL gene is a key gene associated with the response to trisporic acids.
Laparoscopic versus open surgery for locally advanced and metastatic gastric cancer complicated with bleeding and/or stenosis: short- and long-term outcomes
Authors: Khorobrykh Tatyana V. , Abdulkhakimov Nuriddin M. , Agadzhanov Vadim G. , Aghayan Davit L. , Kazaryan Airazat M.
Published: June 2022

Background

Laparoscopic surgery has justified its efficacy in the treatment of early gastric cancer. There are limited data indicating the eligibility of laparoscopic interventions in locally advanced gastric cancer. Publications describing the safety of laparoscopic techniques in the treatment of local and metastatic gastric cancer complicated by bleeding and stenosis are scarce.

Methods

The study included patients with histologically confirmed locally advanced and disseminated gastric cancer and complicated with bleeding and/or stenosis who underwent gastrectomy with vital indications between February 2012 and August 2018. Surgical and oncologic outcomes after laparoscopic surgery (laparoscopic surgery) and open surgery (OS) were compared.

Results

In total, 127 patients (LS, n = 52; OS, n = 75) were analyzed. Baseline characteristics were similar between the groups. Forty-four total gastrectomies with resection of the abdominal part of the esophagus, 63 distal subtotal (43 Billroth-I and 20 Billroth-II), and 19 proximal gastrectomies were performed. The median duration of surgery was significantly longer in the LS group, 253 min (interquartile range [IQR], 200–295) versus 210 min (IQR, 165–220) (p < 0.001), while median intraoperative blood loss in the LS group was significantly less, 180 ml (IQR, 146—214) versus 320 ml (IQR, 290–350), (p < 0.001). Early postoperative complications occurred in 35% in the LS group and in 45 % of patients in the OS group (p = 0.227). There was no difference in postoperative mortality rates between the groups (3 [6 %] versus 5 (7 %), p = 1.00). Median intensive care unit stay and median postoperative hospital stay were significantly shorter after laparoscopy, 2 (IQR, 1–2) versus 4 (IQR, 3–4) days, and 8 (IQR, 7–9) versus 10 (IQR, 8–12) days, both p < 0.001. After laparoscopy, patients started adjuvant chemotherapy significantly earlier than those after open surgery, 20 vs. 28 days (p < 0.001). However, overall survival rates were similar between the group. Three-year overall survival was 24% in the LS group and 27% in the OS groups.

Conclusions

Despite the technical complexity, in patients with complicated locally advanced and metastatic gastric cancer, laparoscopic gastrectomies were associated with longer operation time, reduced intraoperative blood loss, shorter reconvalescence, and similar morbidity, mortality rates and long-term oncologic outcomes compared to conventional open surgery.
Title: the impact of a pilot integrated care model on the quality and costs of inpatient care among chinese elderly: a difference-in-difference analysis of repeated cross-sectional data
Authors: Ye Zhaojia , Jiang Yawen
Published: June 2022

Background

Recently, integrated care has received tremendous popularity in China, a leading example of which is the Luohu model. In the present analysis, we aimed to examine the impacts of the Luohu model on the quality and costs of inpatient care.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis using administrative claims databases of Shenzhen City (the city that the Luohu district sits) from Jan 2015–Apr 2017, which encompassed the time before and after the implementation of the pilot model. The outcomes were 30-day readmission, inpatient costs, and length of stay (LOS). Multivariable difference-in-difference analyses were conducted.

Results

In the first year following the integration, the Luohu model did not have impacts on any of the outcomes. Although its effect on readmission (ratio of odds ratio: 1.082; 95% CI: 0.865 to 1.353) was still not identified in the first four months of the second post-integration year, it decreased inpatient costs by CN¥ 1224.1 (95% CI: 372.7 to 2075.5) and LOS by 0.938 days (95% CI: 0.0416 to 1.835) per hospitalization episode during the same period.

Conclusions

The Luohu model may reduce costs and LOS in the long term. It is potentially a viable approach to improve the value of inpatient care in China.
Evidence and implication of interventions across various socioecological levels to address pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake and adherence among men who have sex with men in the United States: a systematic review
Authors: Wang Ying , Mitchell Jason W. , Zhang Chen , Liu Yu
Published: June 2022

Background

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) represents a proven biomedical strategy to prevent HIV transmissions among men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States (US). Despite the design and implementation of various PrEP-focus interventions in the US, aggregated evidence for enhancing PrEP uptake and adherence is lacking. The objective of this systematic review is to synthesize and evaluate interventions aimed to improve PrEP uptake and adherence among MSM in the US, and identify gaps with opportunities to inform the design and implementation of future PrEP interventions for these priority populations.

Methods

We followed the PRISMA guidelines and conducted a systematic review of articles (published by November 28, 2021) with a focus on PrEP-related interventions by searching multiple databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science and PsycINFO). Details of PrEP interventions were characterized based on their socioecological level(s), implementation modalities, and stage(s) of PrEP cascade continuum.

Results

Among the 1363 articles retrieved from multiple databases, 42 interventions identified from 47 publications met the inclusion criteria for this review. Most individual-level interventions were delivered via text messages and/or apps and incorporated personalized elements to tailor the intervention content on participants’ demographic characteristics or HIV risk behaviors. Interpersonal-level interventions often employed peer mentors or social network strategies to enhance PrEP adoption among MSM of minority race. However, few interventions were implemented at the community-, healthcare/institution- or multiple levels.

Conclusions

Interventions that incorporate multiple socioecological levels hold promise to facilitate PrEP adoption and adherence among MSM in the US given their acceptability, feasibility, efficacy and effectiveness. Future PrEP interventions that simultaneously address PrEP-related barriers/facilitators across multiple socioecological levels should be enhanced with a focus to tackle contextual and structural barriers (e.g., social determinants of health, stigma or medical mistrust) at the community- and healthcare/institution-level to effectively promote PrEP use for MSM of color.
Direct mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2-induced cardiomyocyte damage: an update
Authors: Yang Yicheng , Wei Zhiyao , Xiong Changming , Qian Haiyan
Published: June 2022

Myocardial injury induced by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is reportedly related to disease severity and mortality, attracting attention to exploring relevant pathogenic mechanisms. Limited by insufficient evidence, myocardial injury caused by direct viral invasion of cardiomyocytes (CMs) is not fully understood. Based on recent studies, endosomal dependence can compensate for S protein priming to mediate SARS-CoV-2 infection of CMs, damage the contractile function of CMs, trigger electrical dysfunction, and tip the balance of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system to exert a myocardial injury effect. In this review, we shed light on the direct injury caused by SARS-CoV-2 to provide a comprehensive understanding of the cardiac manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
CD30 + Primary intestinal T-cell lymphoma (unclassified) masquerading as chronic inflammation: a case report
Authors: Osmani Kashif , Shah Eshana , Drumheller Bradley , Webb Shaun , Singh Manmeet , Rubinstein Paul , Galvin John Patrick , Lim Megan S. , Murga-Zamalloa Carlos
Published: June 2022

Background

Primary intestinal T-cell lymphomas are uncommon malignancies that pose a diagnostic dilemma, because the clinical features and imaging findings commonly overlap with those encountered in inflammatory bowel diseases.

Case presentation

The current clinical case report describes the clinical history, laboratory findings and histopathological analysis from a patient with non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms with a presumptive clinical diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, and two intestinal biopsy specimens with non-specific findings. Due to the persistent symptoms a third biopsy was consistent with primary intestinal T-cell lymphoma, a diagnosis that was elusive for months after the initial presentation. Clinical correlation with laboratory and histopathological findings is required to establish a definitive diagnosis and to further stratify the patients. In addition, the neoplastic cells featured partial expression of CD30, which had relevant therapeutic implications.

Conclusions

Suspicion for an intestinal T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder should always exist in patients with persistent abdominal symptoms with no clear etiology. The current discussion provides a summary and review of the key diagnostic histological features for the classification of primary intestinal T-cell lymphomas. In addition, the discussion describes how specific the histological findings are relevant for the clinical management decisions.
Reliability, validity and critical appraisal of the cross-cultural adapted German version of the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS-G)
Authors: Papen A. , Schöttker-Königer T. , Schäfer A. , Morrison F. , Hollinger B. , Burkhart K. J. , Nietschke R. , Zimmerer A. , Maffulli N. , Migliorini F. , Schneider Marco M.
Published: June 2022

Background

The Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) is a rating system consisting of four dimensions to evaluate elbow performance. It is a common tool for assessment of elbow impairments worldwide. We determined the validity and reliability of its German version (MEPS-G) after cross-cultural adaptation.

Methods

Six investigators examined 57 patients with elbow pathologies. The MEPS-G was compared to validated elbow scores such as the German versions of DASH, the Oxford Elbow Score, pain level and subjective elbow performance on a VAS. Inter-rater reliability (IRR) and validity of the score and its dimensions were also reviewed. Verification was performed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), the prevalence and bias with adjusted Kappa (PABAK) and the Spearman correlation.

Results

The IRR of the MEPS-G score was moderate (ICC (2.1) = 0.65). The IRR of the four individual dimensions was moderate to high (KPABAK = 0.55 -0.81). Validity for the sum score (r = 0.52–0.65) and the dimensions pain (r = 0.53–0.62), range of motion (r = 0.7) and stability (r = − 0.61) was verified. The function subscale reached insufficient validity (r = 0.15–0.39).

Conclusion

The MEPS-G is not sufficiently valid, which is consistent with its English version. The patient-based dimensions were a weakness, demonstrating high risk of bias. There is no general recommendation for the utilization of the MEPS-G as outcome measurement for patients with elbow pathologies.
School bullying victimization-associated anxiety in Chinese children and adolescents: the mediation of resilience
Authors: Fang Die , Lu Jin , Che Yusan , Ran Hailiang , Peng Junwei , Chen Lin , Wang Sifan , Liang Xuemeng , Sun Hao , Xiao Yuanyuan
Published: June 2022

Background

School bullying victimization is associated with increased risk of anxiety in children and adolescents. However, little is known about the role of resilience in this association. The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible mediation by resilience in this association in a large group of Chinese children and adolescents.

Methods

A population-based cross-sectional study adopting two-stage simple random cluster sampling was implemented in Yunnan province, southwestern China. A comprehensive questionnaire was used to collect information from the participants. Among all the participants, 4624 were included in the final analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to present general characteristics of the study participants. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were adopted to estimate crude and adjusted associations among bullying victimization, anxiety, and resilience. A path model was used to analyze the hypothesized mediation by resilience in the association between bullying victimization and anxiety.

Results

Analytical results of multivariate logistic regression models suggested that bullying victimization was significantly associated with anxiety in Chinese children and adolescents; compared with individuals who had not been bullied, victims of bullying were more likely to experience anxiety symptoms, with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 3.02 (95% CI 2.46–3.71). Path analysis revealed a prominent mediating effect of resilience in the association between bullying victimization and anxiety, accounting for 31.89% of the total association. Further analysis indicated that, among the five dimensions of resilience, emotional regulation, interpersonal assistance, and family support were significant mediators, accounting for 30.34%, 10.79%, and 8.35% of the total association.

Conclusions

Our major findings highlighted the promising role of resilience-based intervention measures in reducing the risk of anxiety associated with school bullying victimization in Chinese children and adolescents.
Semiochemical oviposition cues to control Aedes aegypti gravid females: state of the art and proposed framework for their validation
Authors: Mulatier Margaux , Boullis Antoine , Vega-Rúa Anubis
Published: June 2022

In the fight against mosquito-borne diseases, odour-based lures targeting gravid females represent a promising alternative to conventional tools for both reducing mosquito populations and monitoring pathogen transmission. To be sustainable and effective, they are expected to use semiochemicals that act specifically against the targeted vector species. In control programmes directed againstAedes aegypti, several candidates of different origins (conspecifics, plants) have already been identified as potential oviposition attractants or repellents in laboratory experiments. However, few of these candidates have received validation in field experiments, studies depicting the active molecules and their mode of perception are still scarce, and there are several methodological challenges (i.e. lack of standardization, differences in oviposition index interpretation and use) that should be addressed to ensure a better reproducibility and accelerate the validation of candidates. In this review, we address the state of the art of the compounds identified as potential candidates for trap development againstAe. aegyptiand their level of validation. We also offer a critical methodological analysis, highlight remaining gaps and research priorities, and propose a workflow to validate these candidates and to increase the panel of odours available to specifically trapAe. aegypti.

Graphical Abstract
Alterations in the jejunal microbiota and fecal metabolite profiles of rabbits infected with Eimeria intestinalis
Authors: Yuan Xu , Liu Jin , Hu Xiaofen , Yang Shanshan , Zhong Shengwei , Yang Tingyu , Zhou Yunxiao , Zhao Guotong , Jiang Yijie , Li Yong
Published: June 2022

Background

Rabbit coccidiosis is a major disease caused by various Eimeria species and causes enormous economic losses to the rabbit industry. Coccidia infection has a wide impact on the gut microbiota and intestinal biochemical equilibrium. In the present study, we established a model of Eimeria intestinalis infection in rabbits to evaluate the jejunal microbiota and fecal metabolite profiles.

Methods

Rabbits in the infected group were orally inoculated with 3 × 103E. intestinalis oocysts. On the eighth day of infection, jejunal contents and feces were collected for 16S rRNA gene sequencing and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis, respectively. Jejunum tissues were harvested for hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining.

Results

Histopathological analysis showed that the whole jejunum was parasitized by E. intestinalis in a range of life cycle stages, and PAS staining showed that E. intestinalis infection caused extensive loss of goblet cells. IHC staining revealed that TNF-α expression was higher in the E. intestinalis infection group. Moreover, both the jejunal microbiota and metabolites significantly altered after E. intestinalis infection. At the genus level, the abundances of Escherichia and Enterococcus significantly increased in the infected group compared with the control group, while those of Oscillospira, Ruminococcus, Bacteroides, Akkermansia, Coprococcus, and Sarcina significantly decreased. In addition, 20 metabolites and two metabolic pathways were altered after E. intestinalis infection, and the major disrupted metabolic pathway was lipid metabolism.

Conclusions

Eimeria intestinalis infection induced intestinal inflammation and destroyed the intestinal homeostasis at the parasitized sites, leading to significant changes in the gut microbiota and subsequent corresponding changes in metabolites.

Graphical Abstract
Cerebrovascular intervention therapy worked positively in one patient with severe cerebral venous sinus thrombosis due to hyperthyroidism: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Jia Jia , Xi Gangmin , Fan Wei , Wang Guiping , Li Junwen , Huang Jing
Published: June 2022

Background

With further understanding of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, hyperthyroidism has gradually been revealed as a rare predisposing factor for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, which may present as more compact clots and resistance to fibrinolysis, also known as a predictor of worse outcomes. For patients with severe cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, proper treatment method should be initiated as soon as possible since they may deteriorate rapidly.

Case presentation

In this case report, we present a 32-year-old Mongoloid woman admitted with progressive headache, impaired consciousness, and right limb weakness, diagnosed with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis caused by hyperthyroidism. A cerebrovascular intervention with local thrombolytic infusion was performed at the site of thrombosis, followed by dilatation with balloon and thrombus aspiration in venous sinus, with partial recanalization observed and anticoagulation given as a next step. After cerebrovascular intervention, the patient’s condition improved rapidly and she was discharged with her National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score being decreased from 17 to 2.

Conclusions

When patients with hyperthyroidism suffer from headache, progressive disturbance of consciousness, seizures, and other symptoms, the presence of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis should be considered and corresponding examinations should be performed as soon as possible. For patients with severe cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, cerebrovascular intervention might be a safe and effective approach if conventional management fails.
Atypical dermatologic manifestations in complex regional pain syndrome: a case report
Authors: Langford Brendan , Pittelkow Thomas P. , Abcejo Arnoley S.
Published: June 2022

Background

Complex regional pain syndrome is a chronic pain condition characterized by autonomic dysfunction, changes in sympathetic and vasomotor activity, and sensory and motor changes. Complex regional pain syndrome is a clinical diagnosis and may occur after trauma or surgery. Complex regional pain syndrome-related pain may occur spontaneously and is out of proportion with the inciting event. We report herein the rare case of a man who developed concomitant painful generalized ulcerations after diagnosis of complex regional pain syndrome.

Case presentation

A 43-year-old Caucasian male with history of four-extremity complex regional pain syndrome type 2 secondary to right rotator cuff surgery performed at an outside hospital presented to a tertiary care center for treatment of generalized ulcerations on all extremities of unknown etiology. Dermatology performed an extensive work-up including laboratory evaluations and biopsies, which were relatively unremarkable. His ulcers were treated with vinegar-based dressings, hydrotherapy, and irrigation and debridements. He was started on methadone (replacing a home fentanyl patch), ketamine infusion, and amitriptyline in addition to his home adjuncts. He obtained good symptom control, improved sleep, and diminished cognitive slowing, compared with his fentanyl patches.

Conclusion

This case report emphasizes an atypical case of generalized ulceration formation in the setting of complex regional pain syndrome. This case highlights the challenging nature of treating complex regional pain syndrome and using multimodal analgesia to target various nociceptive receptors to successfully reduce symptoms.
Designing optimized drug candidates with Generative Adversarial Network
Authors: Abbasi Maryam , Santos Beatriz P. , Pereira Tiago C. , Sofia Raul , Monteiro Nelson R. C. , Simões Carlos J. V. , Brito Rui M. M. , Ribeiro Bernardete , Oliveira José L. , Arrais Joel P.
Published: June 2022

Drug design is an important area of study for pharmaceutical businesses. However, low efficacy, off-target delivery, time consumption, and high cost are challenges and can create barriers that impact this process. Deep Learning models are emerging as a promising solution to perform de novo drug design, i.e., to generate drug-like molecules tailored to specific needs. However, stereochemistry was not explicitly considered in the generated molecules, which is inevitable in targeted-oriented molecules. This paper proposes a framework based on Feedback Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) that includes optimization strategy by incorporating Encoder–Decoder, GAN, and Predictor deep models interconnected with a feedback loop. The Encoder–Decoder converts the string notations of molecules into latent space vectors, effectively creating a new type of molecular representation. At the same time, the GAN can learn and replicate the training data distribution and, therefore, generate new compounds. The feedback loop is designed to incorporate and evaluate the generated molecules according to the multiobjective desired property at every epoch of training to ensure a steady shift of the generated distribution towards the space of the targeted properties. Moreover, to develop a more precise set of molecules, we also incorporate a multiobjective optimization selection technique based on a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm. The results demonstrate that the proposed framework can generate realistic, novel molecules that span the chemical space. The proposed Encoder–Decoder model correctly reconstructs 99% of the datasets, including stereochemical information. The model’s ability to find uncharted regions of the chemical space was successfully shown by optimizing the unbiased GAN to generate molecules with a high binding affinity to the Kappa Opioid and Adenosine $$A_ {2a}$$

A

2
a

receptor. Furthermore, the generated compounds exhibit high internal and external diversity levels 0.88 and 0.94, respectively, and uniqueness.
A note on hypercircle inequality for data error with $l^{1}$ norm
Authors: Khompungson Kannika , Nammanee Kamonrat
Published: June 2022

In our previous work, we have extended the hypercircle inequality (HI) to situations where the data error is known. Furthermore, the most recent result is applied to the problem of learning a function value in the reproducing kernel Hilbert space. Specifically, a computational experiment of the method of hypercircle, where the data error is measured with the $l^{p}$

l
p

norm $(1< p \leq \infty )$
(
1
<
p
≤
∞
)
, is compared to the regularization method, which is a standard method of the learning problem. Despite this breakthrough, there is still a significant aspect of data error measure with the $l^{1}$

l
1

norm to consider in this issue. In this paper, we do not only explore the hypercircle inequality for the data error measured with the $l^{1}$

l
1

norm, but also provide an unexpected application of hypercircle inequality for only one data error to the $l^{\infty}$

l
∞

minimization problem, which is a dual problem in this case.
Responding to “Terminal anorexia nervosa: three cases and proposed clinical characteristics”
Authors: Mack Rebekah A. , Stanton Caroline E.
Published: June 2022

The treatment of eating disorders raises many ethical debates given the pervasiveness with which this illness impacts individuals, especially as the length of time with the illness increases. A recent case study supported the appropriateness of pursuing medical aid in dying for individuals with eating disorders who wish to end their fight with their disorder. This correspondence raises concerns related to this controversial proposal as the current authors dispute that the use of medical aid in dying for individuals with eating disorders is ethically judicious or appropriate. Additionally, this correspondence highlights additional treatment implications that should be considered when trying to provide individuals with eating disorders with the best evidence-based care possible, with the goal of promoting steps toward recovery.