bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standard of Living of Migrant and Non-Migrant Households in Kerala: a Comparative Study Based on Migration Survey 2018
Authors: Kalangadan Afsal , Thalil Muhammad , Rishad Muhammad , Ramachandran Sukumari Reshmi
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in standard of living between households with migrants and households without migrants in Kerala, one of the most remittance-receiving states in India. Data from the Kerala Migration Survey (2018) was used for the study. The survey sampled 15,000 households, including both households with migrants and without migrants. Cross tabulation, standard living index, and ordered logistic regression analysis were used to examine the difference in living standards between households with migrants and without migrants. A total of 28.4% of households were with migrant and 71.6% were without migrant in this study. The proportion of households without migrants that fell below the poverty line (42.38%) was higher than the proportion of households with migrants (30.13%). A significant percentage of households with migrants (16.3% and 38.7%) lived in houses categorized as “luxurious” and “very good,” respectively, compared to households without migrants (10.4% and 27.8%, respectively). In addition, households with migrants allocated a larger budget for house construction, with costs exceeding ₹5 lakhs, compared to households without migrants. The proportion of households with migrants that owned consumer durables such as vehicles, home appliances, and electronic gadgets was also higher than their counterparts without migrants. In terms of standard of living, households with migrants had a significantly higher proportion of households with a better living standard than households without migrants. Further, households with migrants had a significantly higher likelihood of having a better standard of living than households without migrants (AOR: 1.729; CI: 1.609–1.858). This study highlights the significant positive impact of international migration on the living standard of households, including better housing quality and higher levels of ownership of consumer durables. These findings suggest that international migration can be a positive force for development, leading to improved standards of living for both households with migrants and non-migrants.
Enhancing Repurchase Intention on Digital Platforms Based on Shopping Well-Being Through Shopping Value, Trust and Impulsive Buying
Authors: Tan Trinh Le , Nguyen Chau Ngoc Khanh , Thanh Hien Le Thi , Thu Hoai Nguyen Thi , Hoang Uyen Vo Truong
Published: September 2024

The surge in digital platforms has revolutionized how consumers purchase, favoring online shopping. Despite its popularity, customer loyalty in this sphere requires enhancement. Companies are striving to augment loyalty and repurchase intention among consumers. However, the factors driving repurchase intention through shopping well-being in the online context, particularly in Vietnam, remain incompletely understood. This study examines shopping value components, including utilitarian and hedonic values, while exploring their relationships with customer trust and impulsive buying, influencing repurchase intention through customer’s shopping well-being on digital platforms. Employing a mixed-method approach, the study conducts qualitative interviews with online shoppers, marketers, and researchers to refine assessment scales for the Vietnamese context. A quantitative survey will gather data and use Covariance-based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM) to test proposed hypotheses. In addition, the PRISMA model is applied in the systematic evaluation of literature reviews. This research offers a theoretical model for understanding consumer behavior in the Vietnamese online shopping landscape. Additionally, it furnishes valuable insights for digital platform sellers aiming to improve customers’ repurchase intention by refining the shopping experience and well-being.
Participation and Continuation Factors of Volunteer Activities Among Retired Government Employees: Evidence from South Korea
Authors: Lim Dong-Jin
Published: September 2024

This study aims to analyze the motivations and participation and continuity factors of voluntary activities among retired government employees and, thus, offer theoretical and policy recommendations to encourage and retain their involvement. A total of 337 retired government employees in South Korea were surveyed in this study. First, this study found that the most important motivations for volunteering among retired government employees are other-oriented (altruistic) (67.5%) rather than self-oriented (egoistic) (29.2%). Second, personal difficulties in participating in volunteer activities for retired employees were lack of expertise, health problems, and economic burden. Third, the main characteristics of retired employees participating in volunteer activities were retirees who have volunteering experience while working in the past, are women, are active participants in religious activities, and have a high level of education. Finally, retired employees who continued to volunteer after retirement had the following characteristics: a relatively long post-retirement period, volunteer experience while in office, good economic conditions, self-recognized poor health conditions, and high overall life satisfaction.
The Influence of Wait Time on Surgical Outcomes in Elective Lumbar Degenerative Spine Conditions: A Retrospective Multicentre Cohort Study
Authors: Bond Michael , Charest-Morin Raphaële , Street John , Fisher Charles , Dea Nicolas , Singh Supriya , Paquet Jerome , Abraham Edward , Bailey Christopher , Weber Michael , Nataraj Andrew , Attabib Najmedden , Kelly Adrienne , Rampersaud Raja , Manson Neil , Phan Phillippe , Thomas Ken , Soroceanu Alex , LaRue Bernard , Ahn Henry , Marion Travis , Christie Sean , Glennie Andrew , Zhi Wang , Hall Hamilton , Sutherland Jason M.
Published: September 2024

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives

The impact of delayed access to operative treatment on patient reported outcomes (PROs) for lumbar degenerative conditions remains unclear. The goal of this study is to evaluate the association between wait times for elective lumbar spine surgery and post-operative PROs.

Methods

This study is a retrospective analysis of patients surgically treated for a degenerative lumbar conditions. Wait times were calculated from primary care referral to surgery, termed the cumulative wait time (CWT). CWT benchmarks were created at 3, 6 and 12 months. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to measure the associations between CWT and meeting the minimally clinically important difference (MCID) for the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score at 12 months post-operatively.

Results

A total of 2281 patients were included in the study cohort. The average age was 59.4 years (SD 14.8). The median CWT was 43.1 weeks (IQR 17.8 – 60.6) and only 30.9% had treatment within 6 months. Patients were more likely achieve the MCID for the ODI at 12 months post-operatively if they had surgery within 6 months of referral from primary care (OR 1.22; 95% CI 1.11 – 1.34). This relationship was also found at a benchmark CWT time of 3 months (OR 1.33; 95% CI 1.15 – 1.54) though not at 12 months (OR 1.08; 95% CI 0.97 – 1.20).

Conclusions

Patients who received operative treatment within a 3- and 6-month benchmark between referral and surgery were more likely to experience noticeable improvement in post-operative function.
The Nutritional Status of Elderly Chinese Patients With Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Wu Sheng , Liu Peng , Tian Xiulin , Wang Bo , Ouyang Zhiyuan , Luo Wei
Published: September 2024

Introduction: To investigate the nutritional status of elderly Chinese patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and analyze possible factors related to nutritional problems. Methods: Patients with PD aged 65 years or older were enrolled. Anthropometric assessment and Mini Nutritional Assessment were used to determine nutritional status. Various scales were completed to identify potentially related factors, such as Hoehn and Yahr stage (H&Y stage), 30 mL water swallow test, Clock Drawing Test (CDT), and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Results: 785 patients were enrolled. The prevalence of malnutrition and risk of malnutrition was 3.1% (24/785) and 25.7% (202/785), respectively. Regression analyses indicated that H&Y stage ≥ 3 (OR: 2.151; 95%CI: 1.174–3.941; p = .013), abnormal water swallow test (OR: 4.559; 95%CI: 2.130–9.759; p < .001), CDT score < 6 (OR: 2.810; 95%CI: 1.534–5.148; p = .001), and CCI (OR: 1.621; 95%CI: 1.238–2.124; p < .001) were considered to be potential factors associated with low BMI. Conclusion: 28.8% of elderly PD patients were in abnormal nutritional status. Disease severity, dysphagia, cognitive function, and comorbidities might be related factors.
Macular, Choroidal, and Peripapillary Perfusion Changes in Mild and Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury Using Optical Coherence Tomography and Angiography
Authors: Justin Grant A. , Winslow Lauren , Kundu Anita , Robbins Cason B. , Pant Praruj , Hsu S. Tammy , Boisvert Chantal J. , Tagg Nathan T. , Stinnett Sandra S. , Agrawal Rupesh , Grewal Dilraj S. , Fekrat Sharon
Published: September 2024

Introduction: To compare the retinal and choroidal architecture and microvasculature between patients with mild or moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI) and controls with normal cognition using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA). Methods: Patients with a documented history of TBI and age-matched and sex-matched controls were recruited. The primary outcome measures were differences between OCT parameters, including the choroidal vascularity index, and between OCTA superficial capillary plexus metrics, including foveal avascular zone (FAZ) circularity, 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm and 6.0 mm × 6.0 mm macular vessel density and perfusion density, and 4.5 mm × 4.5 mm peripapillary capillary perfusion density and capillary flux index. Results: Sixty-seven eyes of 36 patients with TBI and 72 eyes of 36 control patients met the inclusion criteria. Twelve patients (33.3%) had a diagnosis of mild TBI without loss of consciousness (LOC), 21 (58.3%) had mild TBI with LOC, and 3 (8.3%) had moderate TBI. There was a significant reduction in FAZ circularity and in 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm macular OCTA vessel density and perfusion density in patients with TBI. In cases with TBI associated with posttraumatic stress disorder, all macular OCTA parameters were significantly reduced. There was an increase in the choroidal vascularity index across the severity of TBI; however, it was reduced in those with more than 1 TBI ( P = .03). Conclusions: There was a reduction in macular perfusion in eyes of patients with mild or moderate TBI. The choroidal vascularity index helps differentiate subtle effects of more severe or mild repeated TBI. Further prospective investigation will evaluate OCT imaging and OCTA imaging as noninvasive screening modalities to assess changes in retinal and choroidal microvasculature.
An analytical framework to understand the problematization of urban (historical) animals
Authors: Hirtenfelder Claudia Towne
Published: September 2024

Despite being common, the problematization of animals is ill-understood and undertheorized in urban geography. Being problematized has significant implications for animals: not only in how they are subjected to violent disciplinary practices but also in how they are made epistemically visible (or not) as urban subjects. That is, problematization objectifies animals and can contribute to their physical and epistemic in/visibility in cities. One effect of problematization is that it makes some animals visible to the historical record as problems. Consequently, scholars often write urban histories and analyses that reconstitute these animals as problematic objects, failing to recognize that problematization involves multispecies power relations that animals experience. This article offers a theoretical framework for analyzing the problematization of urban animals. It requires understanding problematization as a sociospatial and historical process in which animals come to be discursively constituted as problems in urban regulation, and materially managed as such through disciplinary practices that frequently rely on material and spatial interventions. I argue that a spatial awareness is essential to telling multispecies histories and geographies that attempt to grapple with problematization as a process as well as its impacts on the experiences of animals.
Ambiguity and uncertainty in mafia migrant settings: Social harms and intimate wounding by the ‘ndrangheta in Australia
Authors: Sergi Anna
Published: September 2024

In Australia, mafia-type families connected to the Calabrian ‘ndrangheta have been successful at exploiting criminal opportunities across generations and places. These families or dynasties have existed “down under” for decades; they have exploited the Calabrian diaspora while manipulating the rich cultural heritage that migrants had brought with them. While the economic harms connected to the presence of mafia-type groups and their activities are well known, empirically, what is less known are non-material harms that originate directly or indirectly from the proximity to such families, or the construction of their “threats”. Based on life history interviews in Australia, this article will explore unintended and hidden harms of the ‘ndrangheta in Australia: on the one hand, social harms, which amount to misrecognition of culture (cultural harm), stigmatisation, and social silencing. On the other hand, “intimate wounding”, which include indirect harms to people in proximity to mafia environments, such as autonomy and relational harms, as well as exposure to violence in ‘ndrangheta families. This paper will present a theoretical framework that contributes and complements both studies on mafia mobility and zemiology, by exploring the role of ambiguity and uncertainty in mafia migrant contexts.
An Evidence-Based Measure to Assess Self-Efficacy Among Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Jordan
Authors: Atiyeh Huda M. , AlOsta Mohammad R. , Othman Elham H. , Khirfan Randa Y. , Hamdan Falastine R.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to assess self-efficacy among adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus and to identify its contributing factors using a new measure based on the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes Guidelines: the Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Self-Efficacy Scale (T1DM-SES).

Method

A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used to collect data from 161 adolescents ages between 12 and 18 via an online questionnaire survey, including demographic and management-related variables and the 21 items of T1DM-SES.

Results

Results demonstrated that adolescents had high self-efficacy levels regarding the basic needs to manage their diabetes and relatively moderate and low levels regarding more sophisticated needs, such as adjusting insulin dose to correct fluctuated glucose levels, covering carbohydrates, and managing ketoacidosis at home. Adolescent females and adolescents who have working mothers or caregivers demonstrated higher levels of self-efficacy, whereas adolescents who have another family member with T1DM reported lower levels.

Conclusion

Assessing adolescents’ self-efficacy using evidence-based measures is crucial for informing health education plans. There should be a greater focus on acquiring the advanced knowledge and skills necessary for adolescents to manage the constantly evolving challenges of diabetes management. Access to health care and sufficient health insurance coverage that encompasses modern technology are fundamental for the effective management of T1DM.
Efficacy and safety of selexipag in patients with inoperable or persistent/recurrent CTEPH (SELECT randomised trial)
Authors: Kim Nick H. , Channick Richard , Delcroix Marion , Madani Michael , Pepke-Zaba Joanna , Borissoff Julian I. , Easton Valerie , Gesang Sophie , Richard Dominik , Ghofrani Hossein-Ardeschir
Published: September 2024

Background

SELECT was the first global randomised controlled trial of selexipag with standard of care in patients with inoperable or persistent/recurrent chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.

Methods

SELECT was a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, group-sequential, phase 3 study (ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT03689244). Adults aged ≤85 years in World Health Organization Functional Class I–IV, with a 6-min walk distance of 100–450 m, were randomised (1:1) to receive selexipag (200–1600 µg twice daily titration until individual maximum tolerated dose)+standard of care or placebo+standard of care. Patients were recruited into the haemodynamic set (first 91 randomised patients to undergo right heart catheterisation (RHC); week 20) or non-haemodynamic cohort (remaining patients, no RHC required). The primary end-point was percent of baseline pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR; week 20). Safety was also assessed.

Results

Of 321 patients screened, 128 were randomised (haemodynamic set n=91 (selexipag n=47; placebo n=44)). In the haemodynamic set, 29 (31.9%) patients had previous pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA), 20 (22.0%) balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA), and 14 (15.4%) both PEA and BPA; 28 (30.8%) were inoperable. The independent data monitoring committee recommended to stop the study for futility as no statistically significant difference was observed for the primary end-point (between-treatment geometric least squares mean ratio of PVR: 0.95, 95% CI 0.84–1.07; p=0.412). Adverse events were reported in 63 (98.4%) and 53 (82.8%) patients for selexipag and placebo, respectively.

Conclusions

SELECT was discontinued for futility, as no treatment effect on the primary end-point (PVR) was observed. Safety data were consistent with the established safety profile of selexipag, with no new safety signals identified.
Clinical response and on-treatment clinical remission with tezepelumab in a broad population of patients with severe, uncontrolled asthma: results over 2 years from the NAVIGATOR and DESTINATION studies
Authors: Wechsler Michael E. , Brusselle Guy , Virchow J. Christian , Bourdin Arnaud , Kostikas Konstantinos , Llanos Jean-Pierre , Roseti Stephanie L. , Ambrose Christopher S. , Hunter Gillian , Jackson David J. , Castro Mario , Lugogo Njira , Pavord Ian D. , Martin Neil , Brightling Christopher E.
Published: September 2024

Background

In asthma, clinical response is characterised by disease improvement with treatment, whereas clinical remission is characterised by long-term disease stabilisation with or without ongoing treatment. The proportions of patients receiving tezepelumab who responded to treatment and who achieved on-treatment clinical remission were assessed in the NAVIGATOR (ClinicalTrials.gov identifierNCT03347279) and DESTINATION (ClinicalTrials.gov identifierNCT03706079) studies of severe, uncontrolled asthma.

Methods

NAVIGATOR and DESTINATION were phase 3, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies; DESTINATION was an extension of NAVIGATOR. Complete clinical response was defined as achieving all of the following: ≥50% reduction in exacerbationsversusthe previous year, improvements in pre-bronchodilator (BD) forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) of ≥100 mL or ≥5%, improvements in Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ)-6 score of ≥0.5 and physician's assessment of asthma improvement. On-treatment clinical remission was defined as an ACQ-6 total score ≤1.5, stable lung function (pre-BD FEV1>95% of baseline) and no exacerbations or use of oral corticosteroids during the time periods assessed.

Results

Higher proportions of tezepelumab than placebo recipients achieved complete clinical response over weeks 0–52 (46%versus24%; OR 2.83, 95% CI 2.10–3.82) and on-treatment clinical remission over weeks 0–52 (28.5%versus21.9%; OR 1.44, 95% CI 0.95–2.19) and weeks >52–104 (33.5%versus26.7%; OR 1.44, 95% CI 0.97–2.14). Tezepelumab recipients who achieved on-treatment clinical remissionversuscomplete clinical response at week 52 had better preserved lung function and lower inflammatory biomarker levels at baseline, and fewer exacerbations in the 12 months before the study.

Conclusions

Among patients with severe, uncontrolled asthma, tezepelumab treatment was associated with an increased likelihood of achieving complete clinical response and on-treatment clinical remission compared with placebo. Both are clinically important outcomes, but may be driven by different patient characteristics.
Integrated nasopharyngeal airway metagenome and asthma genetic risk endotyping of severe bronchiolitis in infancy and risk of childhood asthma
Authors: Zhu Zhaozhong , Shibata Ryohei , Hoffman Kristi L. , Cormier Juwan , Mansbach Jonathan M. , Liang Liming , Camargo Carlos A. , Hasegawa Kohei
Published: September 2024

Background

Infants with bronchiolitis are at increased risk of developing asthma. Growing evidence suggests bronchiolitis is a heterogeneous condition. However, little is known about its biologically distinct subgroups based on the integrated metagenome and asthma genetic risk signature and their longitudinal relationships with asthma development.

Methods

In a multicentre prospective cohort study of infants with severe bronchiolitis (i.e.bronchiolitis requiring hospitalisation), we profiled nasopharyngeal airway metagenome and virus at hospitalisation, and calculated the polygenic risk score of asthma. Using similarity network fusion clustering approach, we identified integrated metagenome–asthma genetic risk endotypes. In addition, we examined their longitudinal association with the risk of developing asthma by the age of 6 years.

Results

Out of 450 infants with bronchiolitis (median age 3 months), we identified five distinct endotypes, characterised by their nasopharyngeal metagenome, virus and asthma genetic risk profiles. Compared with endotype A infants (who clinically resembled “classic” bronchiolitis), endotype E infants (characterised by a high abundance ofHaemophilus influenzae, high proportion of rhinovirus (RV)-A and RV-C infections and high asthma genetic risk) had a significantly higher risk of developing asthma (16.7%versus35.9%; adjusted OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.02–4.97; p=0.046). The pathway analysis showed that endotype E had enriched microbial pathways (e.g.glycolysis,l-lysine, arginine metabolism) and host pathways (e.g.interferons, interleukin-6/Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription-3, fatty acids, major histocompatibility complex and immunoglobin-related) (false discovery rate (FDR)<0.05). Additionally, endotype E had a significantly higher proportion of neutrophils (FDR<0.05).

Conclusion

In this multicentre prospective cohort study of infant bronchiolitis, the clustering analysis of integrated-omics data identified biologically distinct endotypes with differential risks of developing asthma.
Single-cell sequencing reveals cellular landscape alterations in the airway mucosa of patients with pulmonary long COVID
Authors: Gerayeli Firoozeh V. , Park Hye Yun , Milne Stephen , Li Xuan , Yang Chen Xi , Tuong Josie , Eddy Rachel L. , Vahedi Seyed Milad , Guinto Elizabeth , Cheung Chung Y. , Yang Julia S.W. , Gilchrist Cassie , Yehia Dina , Stach Tara , Dang Hong , Leung Clarus , Shaipanich Tawimas , Leipsic Jonathon , Koelwyn Graeme J. , Leung Janice M. , Sin Don D.
Published: September 2024

Aim

To elucidate the important cellular and molecular drivers of pulmonary long COVID, we generated a single-cell transcriptomic map of the airway mucosa using bronchial brushings from patients with long COVID who reported persistent pulmonary symptoms.

Method

Adults with and without long COVID were recruited from the general community in Greater Vancouver, Canada. The cohort was divided into those with pulmonary long COVID, which was defined as persons with new or worsening respiratory symptoms following ≥12 weeks from their initial acute severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection (n=9); and control subjects defined as SARS-CoV-2 infected persons whose acute respiratory symptoms had fully resolved or individuals who had no history of acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) (n=9). These participants underwent bronchoscopy from which a single cell suspension was created from bronchial brush samples and then sequenced.

Results

A total of 56 906 cells were recovered for the downstream analysis, with 34 840 cells belonging to the pulmonary long COVID group, which strikingly showed a unique cluster of neutrophils in the pulmonary long COVID group (p<0.05). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis revealed that the neutrophil degranulation pathway was enriched across epithelial cell clusters. Differential gene expression analysis between the pulmonary long COVID and control groups demonstrated upregulation of inflammatory chemokines and epithelial barrier dysfunction across epithelial cell clusters, as well as over-expression of mucin genes across secretory cell clusters.

Conclusion

A single-cell transcriptomic landscape of the small airways suggest that neutrophils may play a significant role in mediating the chronic small airway inflammation driving pulmonary symptoms of long COVID.
Drift when applying biocides to control crawling and flying insects on walls
Authors: Langkamp-Wedde Tina , von Hörsten Dieter , Wegener Jens Karl
Published: September 2024

Background

Insecticides are sprayed on external building walls for treatments against crawling and flying insects. These applications can lead to drift into non-target areas and thus to undesirable environmental pollution. This emission pathway needs to be considered during exposure assessments within product authorisations to assess potential environmental risks. However, now, there is only one default value for deposition that is used in all calculations based on the Emission Scenario Document of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development at a distance of 50 cm to the treatment area. This is not sufficient for a risk assessment.

Results

When applying a chemical barrier of 50 cm at the bottom of the building wall, wind direction had the greatest influence on drift, while changing the nozzle type had no significant effect. Compared with the measured ground sediments, the OECD default value was deemed to be realistic at a distance of 57 cm from the treatment area. When treating the entire building wall, the wind direction as well as the nozzle used show significant influence on the measured values of drift. The default value for deposition proposed for modelling environmental exposure in OECD document ESD PT18 No. 18 was exceeded. Thus, the exposure estimation might not be protective enough.

Conclusion

Drift values used for the environmental exposure assessment of biocidal products during treatments of building walls should be adapted. This is especially relevant for treatments of entire building walls, where the current default value was exceeded for all distances from the building wall. Wind direction and nozzle type can reduce environmental impact. This finding can be used as a measure to reduce unnecessary exposure in the environment in the future.
Using priorities between human and livestock bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to identify data gaps in livestock AMR surveillance
Authors: Venkateswaran Narmada , Swetschinski Lucien R. , Fastl Christina , Bari Carlotta Di , Criscuolo Nicola G. , Mulchandani Ranya , Zhao Cheng , Meštrović Tomislav , Ikuta Kevin S. , Martins Sara Babo , Coyne Lucy A. , Afonso João Sucena , Huntington Ben , Rushton Jonathan , Devleesschauwer Brecht , Sartorius Benn , Van Boeckel Thomas P. , Pigott David M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat to both humans and livestock. Despite this, there is limited global consensus on data-informed, priority areas for intervention in both sectors. We compare current livestock AMR data collection efforts with other variables pertinent to human and livestock AMR to identify critical data gaps and mutual priorities.

Methods

We globally synthesized livestock AMR data from open-source surveillance reports and point prevalence surveys stratified for six pathogens (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, non-typhoidal Salmonella, Campylobacter spp., Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium) and eleven antimicrobial classes important in human and veterinary use, published between 2000 and 2020. We also included all livestock species represented in the data: cattle, chickens, pigs, sheep, turkeys, ducks, horses, buffaloes, and goats. We compared this data with intended priorities calculated from: disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), livestock antimicrobial usage (AMU), livestock biomass, and a global correlation exercise between livestock and human proportion of resistant isolates.

Results

Resistance to fluoroquinolones and macrolides in Staphylococcus aureus were identified as priorities in many countries but, less than 10% of these reported livestock AMR data. Resistance data for Escherichia coli specific to cattle, chickens, and pigs, which we prioritized, were also well collected. AMR data collection on non-typhoidal Salmonella and other livestock species were often not prioritized. Of 232 categories prioritized by at least one country, data were only collected for 48% (n = 112).

Conclusions

The lack of livestock AMR data globally for broad resistance in Staphylococcus aureus could underplay their zoonotic threat. Countries can bolster livestock AMR data collection, reporting, and intervention setting for Staphylococcus aureus as done for Escherichia coli. This framework can provide guidance on areas to strengthen AMR surveillance and decision-making for humans and livestock, and if done routinely, can adapt to resistance trends and priorities.
Efficacy of different low-level laser therapy sessions in the management of masseter muscle trigger points
Authors: Mahmoud Nermine Ramadan , Shehab Wessam Ibrahim , AlAraby Amany Ahmed , Habaka Yasser Fekry
Published: September 2024

Background

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is one of the recent treatment modalities for myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome with trigger points. The objective of the present study was to examine the impact of varying LLLT sessions on the treatment of masseter muscle trigger points.

Methods

90 patients diagnosed with orofacial pain and trigger points in the masseter muscle for at least 6 months were selected and divided into 3 groups (n = 30) based on the number of LLLT sessions provided to patients. Patients in Group I received one session/per week, group II received two sessions/per week, and Group III received three sessions/per week. The sessions continued for 4 weeks, evaluations of pain levels, maximum mouth opening (MMO), and quality of life were conducted before and after the procedure at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8 weeks.

Results

The pain scores exhibited a highly statistically significant difference among the three groups (p < 0.001) over the 8-week study period. MMO was statistically significantly different between groups at week 4 and week 8. The Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) score was statistically significant difference between groups at week 8. The time showed a highly significant effect on the study outcomes within each group.

Conclusion

Increased the number of LLLT sessions reduced the pain improved the MMO, and subsequently improved the quality of life.

ClinicalTrials.gov ID

NCT06327204 - retrospectively registered.
Assessing stigma: Health and social worker regard towards working with people using illicit drugs in Athens, Greece
Authors: Temenos Cristina , Koutlou Aliki , Kyriakidou Sotiria , Galanaki Sofia
Published: September 2024

Background

After the 2008 Global Financial Crisis and resulting economic austerity, the rise in illicit drug use engendered an increased need for people who use drugs (PWUD) to access medical care, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. Research shows that perceptions of medical staff towards PWUD facilitate or act as a barrier to accessing health care. This study provides a better understanding of health and social work professionals’ perceptions by assessing stigma levels towards PWUD in Athens, Greece.

Methods

This is a mixed-method study. It calculates the stigma score for professionals (n = 60) and the stigma score associated with specific drugs based on the Medical Condition Regard Scale through a quantitative analysis of responses to a semi-structured online survey about attitudes of health and social work professionals towards PWUD. It draws on the qualitative analysis of 12 semi-structured interviews with 16 service managers, providers, and health services advocates working in the charity sector to determine whether perceptions of PWUD affect writing and implementing policy and protocols for services.

Results

Stigma towards PWUD exists amongst health and social work professionals in Athens. Professionals who have worked with PWUD for longer periods of time, professionals who have had specific training on working with PWUD, and professionals who feel that they have the necessary training to work with PWUD all demonstrated a higher stigma score than those reporting the opposite. Cannabis and opioids were associated with lower stigma scores while shisha had the highest level of stigma associated with it. Finally, professional environments are not conducive to alleviating stigma as the lack of training specific to stigma, the lack of professional supervision, and worker burn-out are key barriers faced by professionals in their everyday practice.

Conclusions

Reducing and eliminating stigma towards PWUD among health and social workers requires immediate action. Measures to be taken include: introducing training programs focused on stigma towards PWUD to healthcare providers, social workers, lawyers, police, the media; increasing professional supervision on field work for health and social workers; introducing low barrier health care and specialist units. Peers and field-focused organisations should meaningfully participate in drug and alcohol policymaking, program development, and implementation.
Resected intramuscular hemangioma in the chest wall: a case report
Authors: Nakanishi Yoshiyuki , Akamine Takaki , Kinoshita Fumihiko , Kohno Mikihiro , Ozono Keigo , Hino Takuya , Mori Taro , Oda Yoshinao , Takenaka Tomoyoshi , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: September 2024

Background

Intramuscular hemangioma is an uncommon benign tumor found mainly in the limbs of adolescents and young adults. The local recurrence rate is high, ranging from 30 to 50%, necessitating wide local excision of intercostal intramuscular hemangiomas. However, preoperative diagnosis of intramuscular hemangiomas is challenging. Herein, we report a rare case of an intramuscular hemangioma arising from the chest wall.

Case presentation

A healthy 29-year-old asymptomatic man was referred to our hospital after an abnormal shadow was observed on his chest radiography. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 30-mm-sized mass in the right second intercostal space. Neoplastic lesions, such as schwannomas or solitary fibrous tumors, were included in the preoperative differential diagnosis. Tumor resection was performed using video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. The tumor, which had a smooth surface covered with parietal pleura, was dissected from the external intercostal muscle and costal bone. Postoperative histopathological examination revealed proliferation of spindle-shaped endothelial cells arranged in a capillary vascular structure accompanied by entrapped smooth muscle fibers, adipose tissue, and muscle vessels. The final diagnosis was an intramuscular hemangioma with negative surgical margins. There was no evidence of recurrence during the 1-year postoperative follow-up period.

Conclusion

Intramuscular hemangiomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chest wall tumors, particularly in young people, owing to their potential for recurrence. Moreover, postoperative follow-up may be necessary for resected intramuscular intercostal hemangiomas.
Engraftment of human mesenchymal stem cells in a severely immunodeficient mouse
Authors: Kato Yuko , Ohno Yusuke , Ito Ryoji , Taketani Takeshi , Matsuzaki Yumi , Miyagi Satoru
Published: September 2024

The transplantation of human mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (hMSCs) has potential as a curative and permanent therapy for congenital skeletal diseases. However, the self-renewal and differentiation capacities of hMSCs markedly vary. Therefore, cell proliferation and trilineage differentiation capacities were tested in vitro to characterize hMSCs before their clinical use. However, it remains unclear whether the ability of hMSCs in vitro accurately predicts that in living animals. The xenograft model is an alternative method for validating clinical MSCs. Nevertheless, the protocol still needs refinement, and it has yet to be established whether hMSCs, which are expanded in culture for clinical use, retain the ability to engraft and differentiate into adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic lineage cells in transplantation settings. In the present study, to establish a robust xenograft model of MSCs, we examined the delivery routes of hMSCs and the immunological state of recipients. The intra-arterial injection of hMSCs into X-ray-irradiated (IR) NOG, a severely immunodeficient mouse, achieved the highest engraftment but failed to sustain long-term engraftment. We demonstrated that graft cells localized to a collagenase-released fraction (CR), in which endogenous colony-forming cells reside. We also showed that Pdgfrα+Sca1+ MSCs (PαS), which reside in the CR fraction, resisted IR. These results show that our protocol enables hMSCs to fulfill a high level of engraftment in mouse bone marrow in the short term. In contrast, long-term reconstitution was restricted, at least partially, because of IR-resistant endogenous MSCs.
Effect of a targeted health education program on nurses’ awareness about postpartum depression
Authors: Hussein Rasha Saad , Rabei Samah Hamed Abdelhamid , Gebrel Asmaa Fathy , Yousef Shaimaa Samy
Published: September 2024

Background

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent mental health disorder that affects women after giving birth. It seriously harms the mother–child bond. As nurses' expertise can have a significant impact on women after childbirth, this study aimed to compare the knowledge of nurses at the Maternity Hospital of Ain Shams University (ASU) before and after the implementation of an educational program regarding PPD.

Methods

A pre-and post-quasi-experimental study was conducted among 63 nurses at ASU Maternity Hospital. A self-administered questionnaire was used to evaluate nurses' knowledge of PPD symptoms, diagnosis, risk factors, treatment, and consequences before and one month following an educational program that comprised PowerPoint, posters, and videos.

Results

The mean age of nurses was 23.17 ± 1.45. About 76% had previously heard of PPD, and the most frequent sources of their information were nursing studies followed by conferences. After the intervention, there was a significant improvement in the knowledge score regarding PPD symptoms and diagnosis, with a mean score of 7.23 ± 1.32 compared to 6.13 ± 1.97 before the intervention. The knowledge score of PPD risk factors showed a considerable improvement, with a mean score of 11.52 ± 1.49 as compared to 9.69 ± 1.94 previously. There was a significant improvement in the knowledge scores regarding PPD treatment and consequences. Overall, the PPD total knowledge score of nurses improved significantly after the intervention, from 19.56 ± 3.49 to 23.2 ± 2.5 (p-value < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the positive impact of a targeted health education program on enhancing nurses’ awareness about PPD. The program effectively increased knowledge levels among participating nurses, empowering them with essential skills to recognize, assess, and respond to PPD in their clinical practice. The improvement in awareness signifies the importance of implementing focused educational interventions to enhance nurses’ ability to identify this critical maternal mental health issue.

Implications

Beyond the direct effect of this study on nurses' awareness, it has wider implications for patient care, healthcare policies, professional development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and public health awareness related to PPD.

Trial registration

It was registered on clinicaltrials.gov with identifier number NCT06424496.
Machine Learning Prediction of Pancreatitis Risk With Antithyroid Drugs: A Nationwide Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Kizilgul Muhammed , Yigit Talip , Ata Naim , Celik Ahmet , Ucan Bekir , Sahin Mustafa , Ulgu M Mahir , Birinci Suayip
Published: September 2024

Background

In recent years, there has been increasing data showing that the risk of acute pancreatitis (AP) is increased in patients using methimazole (MMI). The aim of this population-based study was to investigate the association between drugs used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism (MMI, propylthiouracil, propranolol) and the diagnosis of AP.

Material and Methods

The database consisted of more than 85 million citizen records between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2022. Within the scope of the study, the data were examined of patients diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and the individuals who developed acute pancreatitis after being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, which was accomplished using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes. Analyses were carried out using R Studio 4.2.0 software. The test-train technique as a machine learning method was used in Cox regression models.

Results

A total of 1 329 934 individuals diagnosed with hyperthyroidism were examined. Of these, 10 815 (0.81%) patients developed AP after being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. The use of propylthiouracil was determined to increase the probability of experiencing AP diagnosis 0.10-fold (10%) (P .0009), and the use of propranolol decreased the probability of experiencing AP 0.5-fold (5%) (P .032), with a 52.2% predictive success rate. There is no any statistically significant association between MMI use and the probability of experiencing AP according to the model we built.

Conclusion

Although the risk of experiencing AP was not increased by MMI use, propylthiouracil use increased and propranolol use decreased the risk of experiencing AP in patients with hyperthyroidism. Although drug-induced AP is relatively rare, a firm understanding of the drugs associated with the condition should alert the clinician to appropriately diagnose and treat patients.
Comprehensive Study on Central Precocious Puberty: Molecular and Clinical Analyses in 90 Patients
Authors: Narusawa Hiromune , Ogawa Tomoe , Yagasaki Hideaki , Nagasaki Keisuke , Urakawa Tatsuki , Saito Tomohiro , Soneda Shun , Kinjo Saori , Sano Shinichiro , Mamada Mitsukazu , Terashita Shintaro , Dateki Sumito , Narumi Satoshi , Naiki Yasuhiro , Horikawa Reiko , Ogata Tsutomu , Fukami Maki , Kagami Masayo
Published: September 2024

Context

Defects in MKRN3, DLK1, KISS1, and KISS1R and some disorders, such as Temple syndrome (TS14), cause central precocious puberty (CPP). Recently, pathogenic variants (PVs) in MECP2 have been reported to be associated with CPP.

Objective

We aimed to clarify the contribution of (epi)genetic abnormalities to CPP and clinical and hormonal features in each etiology.

Methods

We conducted targeted sequencing for MKRN3, DLK1, MECP2, KISS1, and KISS1R and methylation analysis for screening of imprinting disorders such as TS14 associated with CPP in 90 patients with CPP (no history of brain injuries and negative brain magnetic resonance imaging) and collected their clinical and laboratory data. We measured serum DLK1 levels in 3 patients with TS14 and serum MKRN3 levels in 2 patients with MKRN3 genetic defects, together with some etiology-unknown patients with CPP and controls.

Results

We detected 8 patients with TS14 (6, epimutation; 1, mosaic maternal uniparental disomy chromosome 14; 1, microdeletion) and 3 patients with MKRN3 genetic defects (1, PV; 1, 13-bp deletion in the 5′-untranslated region [5′-UTR]; 1, microdeletion) with family histories of paternal early puberty. There were no patients with PVs identified in MECP2, KISS1, or KISS1R. We confirmed low serum MKRN3 level in the patient with a deletion in 5′-UTR. The median height at initial evaluation of TS14 patients was lower than that of all patients. Six patients with TS14 were born small for gestational age (SGA).

Conclusion

(Epi)genetic causes were identified in 12.2% of patients with CPP at our center. For patients with CPP born SGA or together with family histories of paternal early puberty, (epi)genetic testing for TS14 and MKRN3 genetic defects should be considered.
Weight-Specific Grip Strength as a Novel Indicator Associated With Cardiometabolic Risk in Children: The EMSNGS Study
Authors: Li Zhuoguang , Wu Chushan , Song Yongfang , Li Yanyan , Zhao Xiu , Shang Yue , Zheng Rongfei , Su Huiping , Su Qiru , Li Yan , Fu Rongyin , Lu Wenlong , Xiong Jingfan , Su Zhe
Published: September 2024

Context

Handgrip strength (HGS) is an important indicator of sarcopenia and adverse health outcomes. However, evaluating HGS in children presents challenges, and its association with metabolism remains incompletely understood.

Objective

To establish grip strength reference values for Chinese children and adolescents, as well as to evaluate the relationship between HGS and cardiometabolic risk.

Methods

Data were collected from 4 072 participants aged 6-18 as part of the Evaluation and Monitoring on School-based Nutrition and Growth in Shenzhen (EMSNGS) study. HGS was measured, and relative HGS (RHGS) was normalized by body mass index. Age- or weight-specific HGS and RHGS were derived using the generalized additive model of location, scale, and shape model, and participants’ values were categorized into quartiles, defining low strength as the lowest quartile. The cardiometabolic risk index (CMRI) z-score was calculated, with high risk defined as a z-score of ≥1.

Results

Both boys and girls exhibited similar increases in age- and weight-specific grip strength. Low grip strength, classified by weight-specific HGS and RHGS, was linked to higher CMRI z-scores than classifications based on age-specific references in both sexes. A dose-dependent relationship was observed between weight-specific grip strength and cardiometabolic risk, particularly in boys. Compared with the middle category (P25th–P75th), the odds ratios for high cardiometabolic risks associated with low grip strength increased in both sexes.

Conclusion

This study established grip strength reference values for Chinese youth, introduced the concept of weight-specific HGS and RHGS, and demonstrated a dose-dependent relationship between weight-specific grip strength and cardiometabolic risk. These findings highlighted the association between low muscle strength and increased cardiometabolic risk.
Population Growth, Immigration, and Labor Market Dynamics
Authors: Elsby Michael W. L. , Smith Jennifer C. , Wadsworth Jonathan
Published: September 2024

This article provides a first synthesis of population flows and labor market dynamics across immigrant and native-born populations. We devise a novel dynamic accounting methodology that integrates population flows from two sources—changes in birth cohort size and immigrant flows—with labor market dynamics. We illustrate the method using data for the United Kingdom, where population flows have been large and cyclical, driven first by the maturation of baby boom cohorts in the 1980s and later by immigration in the 2000s. New measures of labor market flows by migrant status uncover the flow origins of disparities in the levels and cyclicality of immigrant and native labor market outcomes and their more recent convergence. An application of our accounting framework reveals that population flows have played a nontrivial role in the volatility of labor markets among the UK-born and, especially, immigrants.