bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Cross-Sectional Study Comparing Traumatic Alopecia Among B-Boys and B-Girls to Other Dance Styles and Its Impact on Dance Performance and Health
Authors: Hall Marshall , Lim Henry , Kim Suhhyun , Fulda Kimberly G. , Surve Sajid A.
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

Breaking, often mislabeled as breakdancing in the media, is a dance style originating from the Bronx of New York in the early 1970s. A unique condition in this population is a form of alopecia known as “headspin hole,” or “breakdancer overuse syndrome” of the scalp. This form of hair loss may show a variety of patterns based on the activities of the dancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between alopecia and breaking, the level of concern dancers have regarding hair loss, barriers to medical treatment, and how it affects their dancing.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study using an online survey. The survey addressed participants’ demographics, hair, dancing styles, training, and health history. Questions about the effects of hair loss on the participants were also asked.

Results:

This study found that there was a significant difference in hair loss among breakers compared to non-breakers. This was not seen after controlling for age and sex. However, the concern for hair loss was significant even after controlling for these variables. Similarly, hair loss was significantly associated with the frequency of headspins. Despite these concerns, breakers were less likely to seek medical attention.

Conclusions:

This study showed that there are significant disparities in hair loss between breaking and other dance styles. Hair loss due to breaking has been shown to have significant effects on an individual’s concerns, which may be compounded by the fact that this population is less likely to seek out medical care and have significantly greater substance use compared to the other dancers surveyed. Further research is necessary to investigate interventions to prevent and treat hair loss in this population and the means to decrease the gap in health care in the dance population.
What Factors Entice States to Manipulate Corporate Income Tax Apportionment Formulas?
Authors: Deskins John , Hill Brian
Published: May 2023

Numerous states have altered the sales factor weight in their corporate income tax (CIT) apportionment formulas. We are among the first to examine which political and economic factors are important in determining whether and when states manipulate sales factor weights. We apply survival model techniques to a panel of state-level data for the years 1985−2012. Our most striking result is that a higher CIT rate is associated with faster movement to a higher sales factor weight. Perhaps indicating that, for economic development, states use sales factor manipulation in lieu of reducing CIT rates broadly, or alternatively, that states raise sales factor weights to compensate for higher statutory CIT rates. Results also indicate that stronger growth in the CIT base and in non-corporate tax revenues hasten sales factor weight increases. Democratic control of the state government and gubernatorial election years are also important in the timing of sales factor manipulation.
A Toxic Combination: Performance, Temporariness, and Struggling for Success in Early Working Life
Authors: Nielsen Mette Lykke , Winding Trine Nøhr , Grytnes Regine , Rønberg Mette Toft , Sørensen Niels Ulrik
Published: May 2023

This article examines some of the conditions that can explain the rise in young workers’ mental health and well-being problems in early work life. Based on 30 qualitative interviews with Danish workers under 30, who all had experienced different kinds of mental health and well-being problems in early work life, it shows how poor working environment and employment conditions often are triggering factors for young workers’ mental health and well-being problems. Mental health and well-being in early work life seem to be linked to the conditions through which young workers’ cultivate themselves as valuable working subjects in a time where work is a crucial arena for self-formation and self-realization. It is concluded that the combination of performance-oriented workplace cultures, temporary employment, and young workers’ aiming to achieve success in their work life, is a toxic combination for mental health and well-being.
The influence of personality on the quality of vision after multifocal intraocular lens implantation
Authors: Pinheiro Rosa L. , Raimundo Miguel , Gil João Q. , Henriques Jorge , Rosa Andreia M. , Quadrado Maria João , Lobo Conceição , Murta Joaquim N.
Published: May 2023

Objective

To assess the possible correlation between patients’ personality traits and subjective perception of quality of vision (QoV), after multifocal intraocular lens (mIOL) implantation.

Methods

patients who had bilateral implantation of a non-diffractive X-WAVE or a trifocal lens were assessed 6 months postoperatively. Patients answered the NEO-Five Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI-20) questionnaire (“Big Five five-factor personality model”) to examine their personality. Six months following surgery, patients were asked to fill a QoV questionnaire where they graded the frequency of 10 common visual symptoms. Primary outcomes were to evaluate the correlation between personality scores and the reported frequency of visual disturbances.

Results

The study comprised 20 patients submitted to bilateral cataract surgery, 10 with a non-diffractive X-WAVE lens (AcrySof® IQ Vivity) and 10 with a trifocal lens (AcrySof® IQ PanOptix). Mean age was 60.23 (7.06) years. Six months following surgery, patients with lower scores of conscientiousness and extroversion reported a higher frequency of visual disturbances (blurred vision, P  =  .015 and P  =  .009, seeing double images P  =  .018 and P  =  .006, and having difficulties focusing, P  =  .027 and P  =  .022, respectively). In addition, patients with high neuroticism scores had more difficulty focusing ( P  =  .033).

Conclusions

In this study, personality traits such as low conscientiousness and extroversion and high neuroticism significantly influenced QoV perception 6 months after bilateral multifocal lens implantation. Patients’ personality questionnaires could be a useful preoperative assessment test to a mIOL.
Clinical characteristics of gyrate atrophy compared with a gyrate atrophy-like retinal phenotype
Authors: Pauleikhoff L. , Weisschuh N. , Lentzsch A. , Spital G. , Krohne T. U. , Agostini H. , Lange C.A.K.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Gyrate atrophy (GA) is a rare retinal dystrophy due to biallelic pathogenic variants in the ornithine aminotransferase (OAT) gene, causing a 10-fold increase in plasma ornithine levels. It is characterized by circular patches of chorioretinal atrophy. However, a GA-like retinal phenotype (GALRP) without elevated ornithine levels has also been reported. The aim of this study is to compare the clinical characteristics of GA and GALRP and to identify possible discriminators.

Methods

A multicenter, retrospective chart review was performed at three German referral centres on patient records between 01/01/2009 and 31/12/2021. Records were screened for patients affected by GA or GALRP. Only patients with examination results for plasma ornithine levels and / or genetic testing of the OAT gene were included. Further clinical data was gathered where available.

Results

Ten patients (5 female) were included in the analysis. Three suffered from GA, while seven had a GALRP. Mean age (± SD) at onset of symptoms was 12.3 (± 3.5) years for GA compared with 46.7 (± 14.0) years for GALRP patients (p = 0.002). Mean degree of myopia was higher in GA (−8.0 dpt. ± 3.6) compared to GALRP patients (−3.8 dpt. ± 4.8, p = 0.04). Interestingly, all GA patients showed macular oedema, while only one GALRP patient did. Only one patient with GALRP had a positive family history, while two were immunosuppressed.

Discussion

Age of onset, refraction and presence of macular cystoid cavities appear to be discriminators between GA and GALRP. GALRP may encompass both genetic and non-genetic subtypes.
Trajectories of the personal vote under open-list proportional representation: Evidence from Finland, 1999–2019
Authors: Söderlund Peter , von Schoultz Åsa
Published: May 2023

Little research has focused on how legislative candidates’ personal electoral support develops over time and why. This study examines the vote trajectories of individual candidates and how they vary according to candidates’ personal vote-earning attributes. Longitudinal data on over 1700 candidates who between 1999 and 2019 participated in two or more parliamentary elections in the Finnish open-list proportional representation system are analysed. The findings show that the average legislative candidate’s personal support increases more rapidly in the beginning of his or her electoral career and then slows down gradually over time. However, there is large heterogeneity in vote trajectories depending on candidates’ socio-demographic characteristics and personal vote-earning attributes. Some candidates enjoy instant success (local councillors and celebrity candidates), while others do not win more votes initially but manage to build loyal personal followings in their district and receive positive returns from repeated candidacy (young, women, and locally rooted candidates).
Literacy assessment in the early years of schooling in an era of neoliberalism
Authors: Tassone Martina
Published: May 2023

This paper explores the literature related to literacy assessment in the early years of schooling in an era of neoliberalism and reports on a key aspect of a study which focused on the literacy assessment practices of early years teachers and literacy leaders in Australian Catholic schools within the Melbourne archdiocese. Background: The study was undertaken in a period following the Melbourne Catholic Education system’s devolution of literacy assessment responsibility to schools after a long period of mandated literacy assessment (1998–2012) but also occurred within a neoliberal high-stakes assessment environment, characterised by heightened levels of teacher accountability. Research Objectives: The intention of the research was to explore the literacy assessment beliefs and practices of teachers in early years classrooms (F–2), to explore the impacts of assessment devolution and the implications in terms of the literacy assessment practices in the early years in Australian Catholic primary schools in the Melbourne Archdiocese. Methods: A predominantly qualitative case study approach consisting of two phases was used to explore literacy assessment in the early years of schooling. Phase 1 consisted of an online questionnaire comprising both open and closed questions, which was completed by 76 literacy leaders from 76 Catholic schools in the Melbourne archdiocese. The questionnaire was designed to elicit information on schools’ literacy assessment practices in the early years and if these had changed since a Catholic Education Melbourne (CEM) policy change in 2012 allowing schools greater autonomy over literacy assessment in the early years. Phase 2 involved semistructured interviews with 23 early years teachers and seven literacy leaders from eight diverse schools to investigate their literacy assessment practices in greater detail and identify how they responded to the opportunities that came with devolved decision-making.
Effects of Physical Exercise Program for Older Family Caregivers of Persons With Dementia
Authors: Kim Ji-yeon , Tak Sunghee H , Lee Jaegyeong , Choi Hyein
Published: May 2023

Self-efficacy plays a major role in improving health behaviors. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a physical activity program that utilized four self-efficacy resources in older family caregivers of persons with dementia. Quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design with control group was used. Study participants were 64 family caregivers aged 60 years or older. The intervention included a 60-minute group session per week for 8 weeks along with individual counseling and text messages. The experimental group showed significantly higher self-efficacy than the control group. In addition, physical function, quality of life related to health, caregiving burden, and depressive symptoms were significantly improved in the experimental group in comparison with those of control group. These findings suggest that a physical activity program with a focus on the resources of self-efficacy may be not only feasible but also effective for older family caregivers of persons with dementia.
Emotion dysregulation is heightened in autistic females: A comparison with autistic males and borderline personality disorder
Authors: Weiner Luisa , Costache Madalina Elena , Bemmouna Doha , Rabot Juliette , Weibel Sébastien , Dubreucq Marine , Dubreucq Julien , Coutelle Romain
Published: May 2023

Background:

Emotion dysregulation is increasingly recognized as highly prevalent and impairing in autistic individuals. Yet, a large majority of studies have considered emotion dysregulation in youth only, and most of them did not consider sex differences in emotion dysregulation manifestation.

Objectives:

In the present study, we aim to investigate sex differences relative to emotion dysregulation in autistic adults without intellectual disability as well as its relationship with different factors potentially involved in emotion dysregulation (e.g. camouflaging, alexithymia, suicidality, quality of life). Self-reported emotion dysregulation will be assessed in autistic adults but also in females with borderline personality disorder, given that emotion dysregulation is particularly enhanced in this population.

Design:

Cross-sectional, prospective, controlled.

Methods:

Twenty-eight autistic females, 22 autistic males and 24 females with borderline personality disorder were recruited from a dialectical behavior therapy program waiting list. They completed several self-report questionnaires measuring emotion dysregulation, alexithymia, suicidality, quality of life, camouflaging borderline symptoms and autism severity.

Results:

Most emotion dysregulation subscale scores and alexithymia scores were heightened in autistic females compared to females with borderline personality disorder and, to a lesser extent, compared to autistic males. Independently of borderline personality disorder symptoms, emotion dysregulation was related to alexithymia and poorer psychological health in autistic females, whereas it was mostly related to autism severity, poorer physical health and living conditions in autistic males.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that emotion dysregulation is a major difficulty of autistic adults without intellectual disability eligible for dialectical behavior therapy, and this is especially the case for autistic females. There seem to be different sex-specific factors involved in emotion dysregulation found in autistic adults, which highlight the need to target-specific domains (e.g. alexithymia) in the treatment of emotion dysregulation in autistic females. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04737707 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04737707
Compliance toward key elements of kangaroo mother care and its predictors among postnatal mothers with preterm and/or low birth weight newborns in southern Ethiopia, 2021: A count analysis
Authors: Habte Aklilu , Tamene Aiggan , Gizachew Addisalem
Published: May 2023

Background:

Although kangaroo mother care has been field-tested and found to be effective for preterm and/or low birth weight newborns at the health facility and community level, implementation and scale-up in low-income countries, including Ethiopia, have proven difficult. There was a dearth of evidence that shows compliance of mothers toward components of the kangaroo mother care.

Objectives:

Hence, this study aimed at assessing the compliance of postnatal mothers toward World Health Organization-recommended elements of kangaroo mother care and the factors that influence it in southern Ethiopia, 2021.

Design:

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 257 mothers with preterm and low birth weight newborns from 1 July to 30 August 2021.

Methods:

A pretested, structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire and document review were used to collect data. The practice of kangaroo mother care was considered as a count variable. Analysis of variance and independent t-tests were used to examine the variation in the mean score of kangaroo mother care across covariates, and variables with a p value of 0.05 were eligible for the multivariable generalized linear regression model. The effect of each independent variable on the dependent variable was examined using multivariable generalized linear regression with a negative binomial log link.

Results:

The mean (±standard deviation) practice score of kangaroo mother care items was 5.12 (±2.39), with 2 and 10 as the minimum and maximum item scores, respectively. Place of residence (adjusted odds ratio = 1.55; 95% confidence interval:1.33–2.29), mode of delivery (adjusted odds ratio = 1.37; 95% confidence interval: 1.11–2.21), birth preparedness and complication readiness plan (adjusted odds ratio = 1.63; 95% confidence interval:1.32–2.26), maternal knowledge of kangaroo mother care (adjusted odds ratio = 1.40; 95% confidence interval: 1.05–1.87), and place of delivery (adjusted odds ratio = 0.67; 95% confidence interval: 0.48–0.94) were identified as significant predictors of compliance toward key elements of kangaroo mother care.

Conclusion:

The overall practice of mothers toward key elements of kangaroo mother care was low in the study area. Health care providers who work in the maternal and child health service delivery points should pay special attention to women who come from rural areas and have had cesarean sections, by encouraging and guiding them to practice kangaroo mother care. Women should be counseled during antenatal care and after delivery to improve their knowledge of kangaroo mother care. Health workers in antenatal care clinics should place a strong emphasis on enhancing birth preparedness and complication readiness plans.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of axicabtagene ciloleucel as a second-line treatment for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in China and the United States
Authors: Li Na , Lei Jianying , Zhang Jiahao , Cai Hongfu , Zheng Bin , Yang Ting , Liu Maobai , Hu Jianda
Published: May 2023

Background:

Axicabtagene ciloleucel (Axi-cel) is the first Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Immunotherapy (CAR-T) product approved in China for treating adult patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma after receiving second-line or above systemic therapy. However, it cannot be widely used in clinical practice due to its high price.

Objectives:

To evaluate the economic value of Axi-cel fully in countries at different stages of economic development, this article, from the perspective of the medical and health system in China and the United States, evaluated the cost-effectiveness of Axi-cel in the second-line treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Design:

Cost effectiveness analysis of Axi-cel in the treatment of relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL).

Methods:

Based on the clinical trial data of ZUMA-7, a short-term decision tree and a long-term semi-Markov partitioned survival model were constructed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the two strategies. This model was cycled for 40 years in 1-month cycles. In this article, only direct medical costs were considered. One-way sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were conducted to assess the robustness of the base-case results.

Results:

In the baseline cost-effectiveness analysis, Axi-cel was associated with more quality-adjusted life year (QALY; 2.72 versus 1.46) and greater costs overall ($180,501.55 versus $123,221.34) than standard second-line chemotherapy in China. Moreover, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of the Axi-cel group was $45,726.66/QALY, which was greater than the threshold of $37,654.5. To achieve cost-effectiveness, the price of Axi-cel must be reduced appropriately. In the United States, Axi-cel was associated with more QALYs (2.63 versus 1.74) and greater costs overall ($415,915.16 versus $289,564.34). The ICER for the Axi-cel was $142,326.94/QALY, below the set threshold of $150,000.

Conclusion:

Axi-cel is not a cost-effective option as second-line therapy for treating DLBCL in China. However, In the United States, Axi-cel has shown a cost-effectiveness advantage as a second-line treatment for DLBCL.
Significance of mechanical loading in bone fracture healing, bone regeneration, and vascularization
Authors: Ma Qianli , Miri Zahra , Haugen Håvard Jostein , Moghanian Amirhossein , Loca Dagnjia
Published: May 2023

In 1892, J.L. Wolff proposed that bone could respond to mechanical and biophysical stimuli as a dynamic organ. This theory presents a unique opportunity for investigations on bone and its potential to aid in tissue repair. Routine activities such as exercise or machinery application can exert mechanical loads on bone. Previous research has demonstrated that mechanical loading can affect the differentiation and development of mesenchymal tissue. However, the extent to which mechanical stimulation can help repair or generate bone tissue and the related mechanisms remain unclear. Four key cell types in bone tissue, including osteoblasts, osteoclasts, bone lining cells, and osteocytes, play critical roles in responding to mechanical stimuli, while other cell lineages such as myocytes, platelets, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and chondrocytes also exhibit mechanosensitivity. Mechanical loading can regulate the biological functions of bone tissue through the mechanosensor of bone cells intraosseously, making it a potential target for fracture healing and bone regeneration. This review aims to clarify these issues and explain bone remodeling, structure dynamics, and mechano-transduction processes in response to mechanical loading. Loading of different magnitudes, frequencies, and types, such as dynamic versus static loads, are analyzed to determine the effects of mechanical stimulation on bone tissue structure and cellular function. Finally, the importance of vascularization in nutrient supply for bone healing and regeneration was further discussed.
Non-randomized controlled trial examining the effects of livestock on motivation and anxiety in patients with chronic psychiatric disorders
Authors: Shimizu Nobuko , Yamazaki Chika , Asano Keigo , Ohe Shingo , Ishida Motohiko
Published: May 2023

Objectives:

Patients with chronic schizophrenia exhibit negative symptoms, including decreased work motivation. Animal-assisted therapy programs have been reported to benefit such patients; hence, there is a possibility that sheep-rearing, rather than conventional employment training, may motivate these patients. Therefore, we investigated the effects of a one-day experiential learning program of sheep-rearing on the work motivation and anxiety of patients with chronic schizophrenia.

Methods:

Fourteen patients were included in a non-randomized controlled trial conducted between August 2018 and October 2018. The patients’ participation in the sheep-rearing experiential learning (one day; intervention day) and normal day care (one day; control day) programs were compared. The salivary cortisol and testosterone levels and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) scores of the patients were analyzed.

Results:

The patients’ salivary testosterone was significantly higher on the intervention day ( p = 0.04) than on the control day ( p = 0.02). Their salivary cortisol was lower on the control day than on the intervention day, although the difference was not significant. Regression analysis was performed based on the change in salivary cortisol levels and STAI-Trait scores ( p = 0.006), and a regression equation was established.

Conclusions:

The study revealed that participation in sheep-rearing may have promoted the testosterone production but did not increase anxiety in patients with schizophrenia. Additionally, regression equations for salivary cortisol levels in such patients may provide information on individual differences in anxiety levels.
Exploring High School Students Career Interest in Aging for a Sustainable Workforce
Authors: Dupuis-Blanchard Suzanne , Thériault Danielle
Published: May 2023

A scarcity of workers calls into doubt our capacity to support and care for an aging population. To gain a better understanding of the next generation of potential workers that will serve the aging population, 644 French-speaking students in grades 10 and 11 in the province of New Brunswick (Canada) were surveyed. The goals were to learn more about the attitudes, knowledge, and career interests that French-speaking, bilingual youth hold with respect to older adults. The participants’ responses indicate slightly positive attitudes toward older adults and little knowledge of this group. Results also showed that interest in a career working with older adults is primarily linked to holding positive attitudes toward them. By offering a deeper insight into young people’s perceptions of an aging population and contributing to a field lacking in research, the results of this study provide insight into measures that can be taken to ensure the future sustainability of the workforce for an aging population.
Recurrence of T-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia With a Rare Presentation as Diffuse Generalized Skin Lesion
Authors: Wasifuddin Mustafa , Sabzposh Hafsa , Sun Lishi , Wu Richard , Wang Jen C.
Published: May 2023

T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia (T-PLL) is a rare and aggressive neoplasm that originates from mature post-thymic T-cells. Cutaneous manifestations are a common presentation in T-PLL but rarely are a presentation in the recurrent setting. Here, we describe the case of a 75-year-old female with a history of T-PLL—who at the time of initial diagnosis did not exhibit any rash—presenting with diffuse rash, facial swelling, sore throat, and dysphagia 7 months later and was found to have recurrent T-PLL. She had diffuse lymphadenopathy and diffuse skin lesions. Biopsy of the skin lesions also confirmed infiltration with T-PLL cells. After review of the literature, no previously reported cases of recurrent T-PLL presented as diffuse skin lesions. This case demonstrates that recurrent T-PLL may present with diffuse rash, respiratory distress, and anasarca. It is important to stay vigilant in patients with history of T-PLL to recognize signs of recurrent disease to allow prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Prevalence of Workplace Violence and Associated Factors Against Nurses Working in Public Hospitals in Northeastern Ethiopia, 2022
Authors: Bekalu Yemane Eshetu , Wudu Muluken Amare
Published: May 2023

Background

Workplace violence against nurses is a burgeoning public health issue affecting developing countries’ healthcare industries. Medical staff, particularly nursing staff, have been subjected to a high level of violence from patients, visitors, and coworkers.

Objective

Aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of workplace violence among nurses working in public hospitals in northeast Ethiopia.

Methods

A multicenter hospital-based cross-sectional study was employed among 568 nurses using census method among public hospitals in Northeast Ethiopia in 2022. The data was gathered using a pretested structured questionnaire and entered into Epi Data version 4.7 before being exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. Furthermore, at 95% CI, multivariable binary logistic regression was used, and variables with P-values of <.05 were found to be significant.

Result

Out of the total 534 respondents, 56% had been exposed to workplace violence in the past 12 months, with verbal abuse accounting for 264 (49.4%), physical abuse 112 (21%), bullying 93 (17.2%), and sexual harassment 40 (7.5%). Being female nurses (adjusted odds ratio [AOR = 4.85, 95% CI (3.178, 7.412)]), having an age  > 41 [AOR = 2.27, 95% CI (1.101, 4.701)], nurses who had drunk alcohol in the past 30 days [AOR = 7.94, 95% CI (3.027, 20.86)], nurses who drink alcohol in their lifetime [AOR = 3.14, 95% CI (1.328, 7.435)], and male patients [AOR = 4.84, 95% CI (2.496, 9.415)] were positive predictors of workplace violence.

Conclusion and recommendation

In this study, the magnitude of workplace violence among nurses was relatively higher. Nurses’ sex, age, alcohol habit, and sex of patients were associated with workplace violence. Therefore, intensive facility-based and community-based behavioral change health promotion activities on workplace violence should be done, with particular focus on nurses and patients.
Measuring Hispanics/Latinxs: Racial Heterogeneity and Its Consequences for Modeling Social Outcomes in U.S. Population Samples
Authors: Shiao Jiannbin Lee
Published: May 2023

Quantitative sociologists have recognized the challenges of studying Latinx Americans, given their unique racial heterogeneity and unique measurement in surveys through dedicated Latinx-ethnicity questions. Using the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, the author examines who identifies as Hispanic/Latinx when the option is a permitted response on a combined race/ethnicity question. The study reveals that national origin, connection to Latinx communities, racial appearance, and consistency in prior ethnic identification as Latinx affect the likelihood of racial identification as Latinx. These associations have heterogeneous consequences for modeling social outcomes in samples with both Latinx and non-Latinx respondents. Latinx Americans divide on skin tone in models of education and health, but they divide on national origin in models of interracial dating. This suggests that researchers should operationalize Latinxs using measures recognizing a modal group of Latinx-only identifiers while capturing heterogeneity by skin tone and national origin across the broader ever-Latinx population.
Identifying driver pathways based on a parameter-free model and a partheno-genetic algorithm
Authors: Wu Jingli , Nie Qinghua , Li Gaoshi , Zhu Kai
Published: May 2023

Background

Tremendous amounts of omics data accumulated have made it possible to identify cancer driver pathways through computational methods, which is believed to be able to offer critical information in such downstream research as ascertaining cancer pathogenesis, developing anti-cancer drugs, and so on. It is a challenging problem to identify cancer driver pathways by integrating multiple omics data.

Results

In this study, a parameter-free identification model SMCMN, incorporating both pathway features and gene associations in Protein–Protein Interaction (PPI) network, is proposed. A novel measurement of mutual exclusivity is devised to exclude some gene sets with “inclusion” relationship. By introducing gene clustering based operators, a partheno-genetic algorithm CPGA is put forward for solving the SMCMN model. Experiments were implemented on three real cancer datasets to compare the identification performance of models and methods. The comparisons of models demonstrate that the SMCMN model does eliminate the “inclusion” relationship, and produces gene sets with better enrichment performance compared with the classical model MWSM in most cases.

Conclusions

The gene sets recognized by the proposed CPGA-SMCMN method possess more genes engaging in known cancer related pathways, as well as stronger connectivity in PPI network. All of which have been demonstrated through extensive contrast experiments among the CPGA-SMCMN method and six state-of-the-art ones.
Role of galectin-3 in diagnosis and severity assessment of epicardial artery lesions in patients with suspected coronary artery disease
Authors: Bošnjak Ivica , Bedeković Dražen , Selthofer-Relatić Kristina , Roguljić Hrvoje , Mihaljević Ivica , Bilić-Ćurčić Ines
Published: May 2023

Background

This study aimed to investigate the possible role of serum galectin-3 (Gal-3) levels in the diagnosis and assessment of significant epicardial artery lesions in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

This was a single-center cross sectional cohort study including 168 subjects with suspected CAD and indications for coronary angiography divided into three groups: percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) group (N 64), coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) group (N 57), and group with no coronary stenosis (N 47). Gal-3 levels were measured and the syntax score (Ss) was calculated.

Results

The mean value of Gal-3 in the PCI and CABG group was 19.98 ng/ml, while in the control group, it was 9.51 ng/ml (p < 0.001). The highest value of Gal-3 was found in the group of subjects with three-vessel disease (p < 0.001). When subgroups were analyzed by Gal-3 levels (< 17.8 ng/ml low, 18.8–25.9 ng/ml intermediate, > 25 ng/ml high risk) there was a significant difference between at least two Gal-3 groups for the arithmetic mean of Syntax score (p < 0.001). The syntax I’s arithmetic mean at low and intermediate-risk Gal-3 levels was significantly lower than at high-risk Gal-3 levels (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Gal-3 could be used as an additional tool for diagnosis and severity assessment of atherosclerotic disease in patients with suspected CAD. Furthermore, it could help identify high-risk subjects in patients with stable CAD.
Immunopathogenesis of viral infections in neurological autoimmune disease
Authors: Habibi Mohammad Amin , Nezhad Shamohammadi Fatemeh , Rajaei Taraneh , Namdari Haideh , Pashaei Mohammad Reza , Farajifard Hamid , Ahmadpour Sajjad
Published: May 2023

Autoimmune diseases develop due to self-tolerance failure in recognizing self and non-self-antigens. Several factors play a role in inducing autoimmunity, including genetic and environmental elements. Several studies demonstrated the causative role of viruses; however, some studies showed the preventive effect of viruses in the development of autoimmunity. Neurological autoimmune diseases are classified based on the targets of autoantibodies, which target intracellular or extracellular antigens rather than neurons. Several theories have been hypothesized to explain the role of viruses in the pathogenesis of neuroinflammation and autoimmune diseases. This study reviewed the current data on the immunopathogenesis of viruses in autoimmunity of the nervous system.
A rare case of pemphigus vulgaris disguised as a malignant gingival ulcer
Authors: Chen Jun , Tang Hui , Zhang Ding , Tang Yuqi , Li Wenjie , Liu Gui , Liu Binjie
Published: May 2023

Background

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a kind of rare and severe autoimmune bullous disease. In this case, the specificity of oral PV lies in the clinical manifestations of a single palatal ulcer, and no blisters were found in the oral mucosa. This case provides a powerful reference for dentists diagnosing and treating oral PV with atypical clinical presentations.

Case presentation

A 54 years old female patient presented with a non-healing palatal gingival ulcer for over three months. By histopathological H&E staining and the direct immunofluorescence (DIF) test, the final diagnosis was oral PV. After topical glucocorticoid therapy, the affected area was cured.

Conclusions

In patients with prolonged erosion of the skin or oral mucosa, even if complete blisters are not visible, the physician should consider autoimmune bullous diseases and pay attention to avoid diagnostic defects.
Culture and pandemic control at cross-roads: navigating the burial guidelines for COVID-19-related deaths in a Ghanaian setting
Authors: Takyiakwaa Dorothy , Tuoyire Derek Anamaale , Abraham Susanna Aba , Agyare Elizabeth Ama , Amoah John Oti , Owusu-Sarpong Akosua Agyeiwaa , Omona Kizito , Obiri-Yeboah Dorcas , Doku David Teye
Published: May 2023

Background

Despite the large volume of scientific evidence on the rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated high morbidity and mortality, little is known about the sociocultural disruptions which ensued. The current study explored the nuanced navigation of the COVID-19-related death and burial protocols and its impact on traditional burial and funeral rites in Ghana.

Methods

This qualitative study was based on the ‘focused’ ethnographic design. Data were collected using key informant interviews from nineteen COVID-19-related bereaved family members and public health officials involved in enforcing adherence to COVID-19-related death and burial protocols in the Cape Coast Metropolis of Central region of Ghana. Recursive analysis was conducted to generate the themes and sub-themes from the data.

Results

The overarching theme was “Uncultural” connotations ascribed to the COVID-19-related death and burial protocols. The COVID-19-related death and burial protocols were ubiquitously deemed by participants to be ‘uncultural’ as they inhibited deep-rooted indigenous and eschatological rites of separation between the living and the dead. This was fueled by limited awareness and knowledge about the COVID-19 burial protocols, resulting in fierce resistance by bereaved family members who demanded that public health officials release the bodies of their deceased relatives. Such resistance in the midst of resource limitation led to negotiated compromises of the COVID-19-related death and burial protocols between family members and public health officials.

Conclusions

Insensitivity to socio-cultural practices compromised the implementation of the COVID-19 pandemic control interventions, particularly, the COVID-19-related death and burial protocols. Some compromises that were not sanctioned by the protocols were reached to allow health officials and families respectfully bury their dead. These findings call for the need to prioritize the incorporation of sociocultural practices in future pandemic prevention and management strategies.
Factors influencing loyalty to online health consultation platform: a cross-strait cultural perspective
Authors: Huang Li-Yun , Shiau Wen-Ming , Chou Pei Chin
Published: May 2023

Background

The geographical, cultural, and linguistic proximity between Taiwan and Mainland China has facilitated rapid growth of cross-strait interactions. Both countries have developed online health consultation platforms on the Internet for the public to access healthcare related information. This study examines factors that influence loyalty to a specific online health consultation platform (OHCP) from a cross-strait perspective.

Methods

Based on the Expectation Confirmation Theory and the combined Trust, Perceived Health Risks and Culture, we examine factors that influence loyalty to OHCPs among cross-strait users by investigating the roles of trust, perceived health risks, and culture. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey.

Results

The research models used provide a high-power explanation of loyalty to OHCPs. Results generally align with those of previous studies, with the exception of the relationships between Perceived Health Risks and Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Usefulness and Loyalty, Confirmation and Satisfaction, and Trust and Loyalty. In other words, culture may have moderated these relationships.

Conclusions

Findings can help promote OHCPs among cross-strait users to make things easier for patients, and further reduce the load on the emergency department, especially in view of the still ongoing issues related to global outbreak of Coronavirus disease by facilitating early detection of potential cases.
Association of ZC3HAV1 single nucleotide polymorphisms with the susceptibility of Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease
Authors: Wu Qiuying , Zhong Zhenyu , Zhou Chunya , Cao Qingfeng , Su Guannan , Yang Peizeng
Published: May 2023

Background

Polymorphisms of genes related to the immune response have been reported to confer susceptibility to Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease. This study was carried out to determine whether zinc finger CCCH-type containing antiviral 1 (ZC3HAV1) and tripartite motif-containing protein 25 (TRIM25) genetic polymorphisms are associated with this disease.

Methods

A total of 766 VKH patients and 909 healthy individuals were enrolled in this two-stage case-control study. Thirty-one tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of ZC3HAV1 and TRIM25 were genotyped by MassARRAY System and iPLEX Gold Genotyping Assay. Allele and genotype frequencies were analyzed by the χ2 test or Fisher’s exact test. Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test was used to assess the pooled odds ratio (OR) in the combined study. A stratified analysis was performed in terms of the major clinical features of VKH disease.

Results

We found a statistically significant increased frequency of the minor A allele of ZC3HAV1 rs7779972 (P = 1.50 × 10− 4, pooled OR = 1.332, 95%CI = 1.149–1.545) in VKH disease as compared with controls by using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test. The GG genotype of rs7779972 showed a protective association with VKH disease (P = 1.88 × 10− 3, OR = 0.733, 95%CI = 0.602–0.892). There was no difference regarding the frequency of the remaining SNPs between VKH cases and controls (all P > 2.08 × 10− 3). The stratified analysis showed no significant association of rs7779972 with the major clinical characteristics of VKH disease.

Conclusion

Our study indicated that the ZC3HAV1 variant rs7779972 might confer susceptibility to VKH disease in Han Chinese.
The association of spirometric small airways obstruction with respiratory symptoms, cardiometabolic diseases, and quality of life: results from the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study
Authors: Knox-Brown Ben , Patel Jaymini , Potts James , Ahmed Rana , Aquart-Stewart Althea , Barbara Cristina , Buist A. Sonia , Cherkaski Hamid Hacene , Denguezli Meriam , Elbiaze Mohammed , Erhabor Gregory E. , Franssen Frits M. E. , Al Ghobain Mohammed , Gislason Thorarinn , Janson Christer , Kocabaş Ali , Mannino David , Marks Guy , Mortimer Kevin , Nafees Asaad Ahmed , Obaseki Daniel , Paraguas Stefanni Nonna M. , Loh Li Cher , Rashid Abdul , Salvi Sundeep , Seemungal Terence , Studnicka Michael , Tan Wan C. , Wouters Emiel F. M. , Abozid Hazim , Mueller Alexander , Burney Peter , Amaral Andre F. S.
Published: May 2023

Background

Spirometric small airways obstruction (SAO) is common in the general population. Whether spirometric SAO is associated with respiratory symptoms, cardiometabolic diseases, and quality of life (QoL) is unknown.

Methods

Using data from the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study (N = 21,594), we defined spirometric SAO as the mean forced expiratory flow rate between 25 and 75% of the FVC (FEF25-75) less than the lower limit of normal (LLN) or the forced expiratory volume in 3 s to FVC ratio (FEV3/FVC) less than the LLN. We analysed data on respiratory symptoms, cardiometabolic diseases, and QoL collected using standardised questionnaires. We assessed the associations with spirometric SAO using multivariable regression models, and pooled site estimates using random effects meta-analysis. We conducted identical analyses for isolated spirometric SAO (i.e. with FEV1/FVC ≥ LLN).

Results

Almost a fifth of the participants had spirometric SAO (19% for FEF25-75; 17% for FEV3/FVC). Using FEF25-75, spirometric SAO was associated with dyspnoea (OR = 2.16, 95% CI 1.77–2.70), chronic cough (OR = 2.56, 95% CI 2.08–3.15), chronic phlegm (OR = 2.29, 95% CI 1.77–4.05), wheeze (OR = 2.87, 95% CI 2.50–3.40) and cardiovascular disease (OR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.11–1.52), but not hypertension or diabetes. Spirometric SAO was associated with worse physical and mental QoL. These associations were similar for FEV3/FVC. Isolated spirometric SAO (10% for FEF25-75; 6% for FEV3/FVC), was also associated with respiratory symptoms and cardiovascular disease.

Conclusion

Spirometric SAO is associated with respiratory symptoms, cardiovascular disease, and QoL. Consideration should be given to the measurement of FEF25-75 and FEV3/FVC, in addition to traditional spirometry parameters.
Role of PARP inhibitors beyond BRCA mutation and platinum sensitivity in epithelial ovarian cancer: a meta-analysis of hazard ratios from randomized clinical trials
Authors: Purwar Roli , Ranjan Rakesh , Pal Manjusha , Upadhyay Satyanshu K. , Kumar Tarun , Pandey Manoj
Published: May 2023

Background

PARP inhibitors (PARPi) have a well-established role in platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer (PSOC), in BRCA mutant (BRCAm), and homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) population. However, their role in wild type and homologous recombination proficient population is still not clear.

Methods

A meta-analysis of hazard ratios (HR) of randomized control trials (RCTs) was conducted to study the role of PARPi. The published RCTs comparing the efficacy of PARP inhibitors alone or in combination with chemotherapy and/or target therapies versus placebo/chemotherapy alone/target therapy alone in primary or recurrent ovarian cancer settings were selected. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were the primary endpoints.

Results

A total of 14 primary studies and 5 updated studies are considered, consisting of 5363 patients. Overall, HR for PFS was 0.50 [95% CI 0.40–0.62]. HR of PFS was 0.94 [95% CI 0.76–1.15] in the PROC group, 0.41 [95% CI 0.29–0.60] was in HRD with BRCA unknown (BRCAuk), 0.38 [95% CI 0.26–0.57] in HRD with BRCAm, and 0.52 [95% CI 0.38–0.71] in HRD with BRCAwt. In the HRP group, overall HR for PFS was 0.67 [95% CI 0.56–0.80], 0.61 [95% CI 0.38–0.99] in HRD unknown with BRCA wt, and 0.40 [95% CI 0.29–0.55] in BRCAm HR for PFS. Overall, HR for OS was 0.86 [95% CI 0.73–1.031].

Conclusions

The results suggest that PARPi have a meaningful clinical benefit in PSOC, HRD, BRACm, and also in HRP and PROC; however, the evidence is not sufficient to recommend their routine use and further studies are needed to expand their role in the HRP and PROC groups.
Radiation combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors for unresectable locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer: synergistic mechanisms, current state, challenges, and orientations
Authors: Wu Leilei , Zhang Zhenshan , Bai Menglin , Yan Yujie , Yu Jinming , Xu Yaping
Published: May 2023

Until the advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), definitive radiotherapy (RT) concurrently with chemotherapy was recommended for unresectable, locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC). The trimodality paradigm with consolidation ICIs following definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy has been the standard of care since the PACIFIC trial. Preclinical evidence has demonstrated the role of RT in the cancer-immune cycle and the synergistic effect of RT combined with ICIs (iRT). However, RT exerts a double-edged effect on immunity and the combination strategy still could be optimized in many areas. In the context of LA-NSCLC, optimized RT modality, choice, timing, and duration of ICIs, care for oncogenic addicted tumors, patient selection, and novel combination strategies require further investigation. Targeting these blind spots, novel approaches are being investigated to cross the borders of PACIFIC. We discussed the development history of iRT and summarized the updated rationale for the synergistic effect. We then summarized the available research data on the efficacy and toxicity of iRT in LA-NSCLC for cross-trial comparisons to eliminate barriers. Progression during and after ICIs consolidation therapy has been regarded as a distinct resistance scenario from primary or secondary resistance to ICIs, the subsequent management of which has also been discussed. Finally, based on unmet needs, we probed into the challenges, strategies, and auspicious orientations to optimize iRT in LA-NSCLC. In this review, we focus on the underlying mechanisms and recent advances of iRT with an emphasis on future challenges and directions that warrant further investigation. Taken together, iRT is a proven and potential strategy in LA-NSCLC, with multiple promising approaches to further improve the efficacy.