bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Test-retest reliability and comparison of single- and dual-beam photocell timing system with video-based applications to measure linear and change of direction sprint times
Authors: Thapa Rohit K , Sarmah Bhargav , Singh Tanvi , Kushwah Gaurav S , Akyildiz Zeki , Ramirez-Campillo Rodrigo
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to assess the test-retest reliability of untested single- and dual-beam timing gates and compare them with previously validated video-based applications to measure linear and change of direction sprint (CODS) times. Twenty-three participants were concurrently assessed for 30 m linear sprint and CODS time using single- and dual-beam timing gates and the MySprint and COD Timer applications. Interclass correlation coefficient (ICC), Pearson correlation, independent t-test and Bland-Altman plots were used for comparison between instruments. ICC, Cronbach’s alpha and coefficient of variation (CV) analyses were used to assess the test-retest reliability. Excellent ICC was noted for test-retest reliability (0.982–0.984 [sprint], 0.940–0.942 [CODS]), with a high Cronbach’s alpha (all 0.997 [sprints], 0.988–0.989 [CODS]) and acceptable CV (1.296–1.946%) for all the timing systems. Similarly, excellent ICC (0.989–0.994 [sprint], 0.998–0.999 [CODS]) and very high correlation ( r = 0.990–0.994 [sprints] and r = 0.998–1.000 [CODS]) were reported between the single- and dual-beam timing gates, and the MySprint and COD Timer applications, with non-significant differences between the measurements ( p = 0.754–0.960). However, the Bland-Altman plots represented that values measured with the three instruments were inconsistent with most values away from the mean of the difference between instruments. In conclusion, both photocell timing systems are reliable instruments for measuring linear sprint time and CODS time. However, the timing systems should not be used interchangeably to interpret findings. Furthermore, it is suggested that similar timing systems with an identical setup should be used for the measurement of timings for interpretations.
Mitochondrially targeted tamoxifen as anticancer therapy: case series of patients with renal cell carcinoma treated in a phase I/Ib clinical trial
Authors: Bielcikova Zuzana , Werner Lukas , Stursa Jan , Cerny Vladimir , Krizova Ludmila , Spacek Jan , Hlousek Stanislav , Vocka Michal , Bartosova Olga , Pesta Michal , Kolostova Katarina , Klezl Petr , Bobek Vladimir , Truksa Jaroslav , Stemberkova-Hubackova Sona , Petruzelka Lubos , Michalek Pavel , Neuzil Jiri
Published: September 2023

Mitochondrially targeted anticancer drugs (mitocans) that disrupt the energy-producing systems of cancer are emerging as new potential therapeutics. Mitochondrially targeted tamoxifen (MitoTam), an inhibitor of mitochondrial respiration respiratory complex I, is a first-in-class mitocan that was tested in the phase I/Ib MitoTam-01 trial of patients with metastatic cancer. MitoTam exhibited a manageable safety profile and efficacy; among 37% (14/38) of responders, the efficacy was greatest in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with a clinical benefit rate of 83% (5/6) of patients. This can be explained by the preferential accumulation of MitoTam in the kidney tissue in preclinical studies. Here we report the mechanism of action and safety profile of MitoTam in a case series of RCC patients. All six patients were males with a median age of 69 years, who had previously received at least three lines of palliative systemic therapy and suffered progressive disease before starting MitoTam. We recorded stable disease in four, partial response in one, and progressive disease (PD) in one patient. The histological subtype matched clear cell RCC (ccRCC) in the five responders and claro-cellular carcinoma with sarcomatoid features in the non-responder. The number of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) was evaluated longitudinally to monitor disease dynamics. Beside the decreased number of CTCs after MitoTam administration, we observed a significant decrease of the mitochondrial network mass in enriched CTCs. Two patients had long-term clinical responses to MitoTam, of 50 and 36 weeks. Both patients discontinued treatment due to adverse events, not PD. Two patients who completed the trial in November 2019 and May 2020 are still alive without subsequent anticancer therapy. The toxicity of MitoTam increased with the dosage but was manageable. The efficacy of MitoTam in pretreated ccRCC patients is linked to the novel mechanism of action of this first-in-class mitochondrially targeted drug.
Personality and Lifetime Need Frustration: A Person-Centered Perspective on Interpersonal Problems and Personality Pathology
Authors: Sciberas Chris , Fournier Marc A.
Published: September 2023

The current research adopted a person-centered approach to examine whether people’s experiences of lifetime need frustration interact with their personality trait profiles to predict their problems and pathology from the perspectives of both the interpersonal circumplex (IPC) and the five-factor model (FFM). Data ( N = 1,026) were analyzed using multilevel modeling. Consistent with prediction, lifetime need frustration predicted participants’ overall levels of interpersonal distress and personality pathology. Furthermore, levels of lifetime need frustration predicted the strength of the relationship between participants’ trait profiles (i.e., IPC and FFM) and their corresponding profiles of interpersonal problems and personality pathology. Findings from the present study demonstrate how between-person differences in lifetime need frustration give rise to the within-person organization of psychological maladjustment and highlight the importance of people’s traits in predicting their unique maladaptations to having their basic psychological needs frustrated.
Pain and diet: A summary of the evidence for the role of diet modification in chronic pain
Authors: Cameron David , Harrison Joanna , Tripathi Shiva , Hill James Edward
Published: September 2023

Chronic pain constitutes a significant burden to patients and healthcare systems. For many patients, the only option is to attempt to manage their pain within their daily lives. Here, we review evidence provided by three systematic reviews for the effect of diet and diet supplements on patients’ experience of chronic pain.
Cerclage in complete placenta previa preventing preterm labor: A rare case report
Authors: Saroyo Yudianto Budi , Madjid Omo Abdul , Santawi Victor Prana Andika , Scovani Laurensia , Purbadi Sigit
Published: September 2023

Placenta previa often leads to antepartum hemorrhage, which warrants the patient for emergency room admission. The bleeding occurs mainly due to cervical dilation, which could be caused by cervical incompetence. Cervical cerclage has been considered as the primary treatment for cervical incompetence. However, evidence is lacking for its application in placenta previa. Here, we present a case of a 30-year-old pregnant woman diagnosed with complete placenta previa where a good obstetrical outcome could be achieved. The patient had antepartum hemorrhage during the 21st week of gestational age due to cervical dilation in a complete placenta previa case. An emergency cerclage using McDonald’s technique was then performed, which prolonged the pregnancy to the 34th week of gestation. The patient had cesarean section and delivered a healthy baby girl weighing 2190 g. The mother and the baby had an uneventful recovery and were discharged after 2 days of hospitalization.
The Far-Right Smokescreen: Environmental Conspiracy and Culture Wars on Brazilian YouTube
Authors: Salles Débora , de Medeiros Priscila Muniz , Santini Rose Marie , Barros Carlos Eduardo
Published: September 2023

Holding the greatest area of rainforest in the world, Brazil has seen the adoption of a far-right anti-environmental agenda under the administration of Jair Bolsonaro. This agenda was backed by a transnational infrastructure of right-wing media outlets on online platforms, including the conservative YouTube channel Brasil Paralelo. Our research attempted to understand how environmental conspiracies in Brasil Paralelo’s documentary Cortina de Fumaça (in English, smokescreen) took advantage of both digital platform affordances and political alignment with the far-right government to gain social adherence and relevance. By carrying out topic modeling on more than 13,000 comments and network analysis of 982 recommended videos on YouTube, we aimed to analyze the following: (1) which narratives fostered in the documentary have reverberated among the audience that published comments on its YouTube page and (2) what type of video does YouTube recommend for users who watched Cortina de Fumaça. Our results show that far-right anti-environmental discourse is instrumentalized as yet another component of modern culture wars, where environmental conspiracies are placed side by side with other conspiratorial claims regarding politics, gender, religion, and other ideological subjects.
Expedient, Affective, and Sustained Solidarities? Mediated Contestations of Islamophobia in the Case of Brexit, the Christchurch Terror Attack, and the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Poole Elizabeth , Giraud Eva H. , Richardson John E. , de Quincey Ed
Published: September 2023

This article advances research on mediated solidarity, by analyzing the contestation of Islamophobia on the social media platform Twitter, in the context of Brexit, the Christchurch terror attack, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on a unique longitudinal dataset, gathered over a 5-year period, we elucidate how evolving relations between platforms and trigger events can enable solidarity networks to shift dominant narratives. Taking each event in turn, we demonstrate how on initial analysis these events appear to generate solidarities that fall within a spectrum of solidarity. Brexit produced “expedient solidarities” where Islamophobia was leveraged in support of wider political identities and commitments. The Christchurch terrorist attack engendered “affective solidarities,” wherein expressions of empathy gained visibility but gave way to a long tail of hate. Finally, in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, we analyze how sustained solidarity networks arose through antagonistic exchanges with nationalist movements that propagated Islamophobic misinformation. Yet our longitudinal and comparative methodology allowed for a more complicated picture to emerge, which troubled existing typologies of digital solidarity. The broader implications of our findings for social media research are therefore twofold. First, we underline the empirical value of mixed methods approaches, as these complex forms of solidarity only became legible through combining computational, qualitative, and quantitative methods. Second, we argue for the theoretical importance of conceiving how the entanglement of platform affordances and events gives rise to multi-dimensional solidarities that offer the potential to sustain counternarrative content over time.
Students’ Experiences with a Mental Health-Promoting Daily Life During COVID19: Balancing Predictability and Joy
Authors: Skoglund Anne , Moen Øyfrid Larsen , Batt-Rawden Kari Bjerke , Schröder Agneta
Published: September 2023

In March 2020, higher education institutions experienced a lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Numerous studies have shown the negative impact of the lockdown on students’ mental health. The lockdown situation was unprecedented and describing the variety of experiences is therefore important. This study aims to describe students’ lived experiences of how student life promoted mental health and wellbeing in everyday life under various degrees of lockdown during the pandemic. Twelve students from a Norwegian university were interviewed online. Phenomenological analysis was used. The essence of their experiences can be described as a balance between predictability and joy based on two themes: making sense in isolation and me related to the outside world. This balance was achieved through the students’ own effort to create appropriate routines in their everyday lives and facilitate the achievement of their goals, allowing them to take initiative, feel included and disrupt the often monotonous COVID-19 lockdown. Universities need to offer as many in-person meeting points, spaces where small groups of students can meet, and interactive lectures as possible.
“Oh My God! Buy it!” Analysis on the Characteristics of Anchor’s Speech in Live Broadcast E-Commerce and Purchase Intention: A Linguistic Perspective
Authors: Li Hongzheng , Wang Ruojin , Shi Can
Published: September 2023

As an emerging business model, live broadcast e-commerce is growing rapidly in China in recent years and prompts the emergence of network anchors, attracting the customers to buy a variety of goods in their live broadcasts. In this paper, we take Li Jiaqi, one of most popular live streaming anchors in China as example, collect and transcribe his speech data of live broadcasts to build live broadcast speech-text corpus, and then conduct corpus-based analysis on linguistic characteristics from the aspects of phonetic, usage of various language units, and rhetoric ways, by using the methods and tools from Phonetics, Natural Language Processing, and Corpus Linguistics. Based on the linguistic analysis, we propose the hypothesis that features in the live broadcasts can have some effects on purchase intention of customers, and testify it with questionnaire survey.
Navigating Identity Uncertainty: Identity Distress During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Meca Alan , Allison Kelsie K. , Passini Julia , Veniegas Taryn , Cruz Bethany , Castillo Linda G. , Schwartz Seth J. , Zamboanga Byron L. , Michikyan Minas , Bessaha Melissa , Regan Pamela C. , Subrahmanyam Kaveri , Bartholomew John , Piña-Watson Brandy , Cano Miguel Ángel , Martinez Charles R.
Published: September 2023

The long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have only recently begun to be explored. Among college students, who were faced with sudden and unprecedented changes and challenges, it is likely that COVID-19 detrimentally impacted the establishment of a sense of self, a key developmental task of the college years. However, no research has examined the relationships among COVID-19 related worries, identity distress, and psychological and academic adjustment. To address these gaps in the current study, we examined the prevalence of identity distress, the relationship between COVID-19 related worries and identity distress, and the direct and indirect associations between COVID-19 related worries and psychological and academic adjustment among a sample of 1627 college students ( M age = 20.51, SD = 2.21). Findings indicated that over a third of the sample reported high levels of identity distress and that COVID-19 related worries were negatively associated, both directly and indirectly through identity distress, with psychological and academic adjustment.
Delphi-Based Survey for Surgical Indications in Biopsy Proven Active Adult Spinal Tuberculosis
Authors: Venugopal Menon K. , Basu Saumyajit , Oka Gauri , Gohil Kushal
Published: September 2023

Study Design

Delphi survey.

Objectives

To obtain an expert consensus on various dilemmas in the surgical treatment of adult spinal tuberculosis (TB) patients.

Methods

Stage I included a literature review, stage II the identification of 40 Key Opinion leaders (KOLs) and a set of 46 questions, stage III included analysis of 3 rounds of the Delphi survey, and stage IV had final analysis and recommendations. For each question, the level of agreement needed to reach a consensus was set at greater than or equal to 70.0%.

Results

The first and second Delphi survey rounds received 62 and 58 responses, respectively, with 16 questions having more than 70% and two questions having 100% agreement in the first stage. The second stage saw a 70% agreement on six questions. Thus, a consensus was obtained on 22 questions. The recommendations that emerged were as follows: neurodeficit with corresponding radiology and neurological deficit appearing/deteriorating while on anti-tubercular chemotherapy(ATT) are absolute indications for surgery, duration of ATT before neurological deterioration need not be considered, epidural abscess does not need decompression unless concordant clinical neurological findings are present, pain not responding to medical management is not a surgical indication, active pulmonary TB, drug-resistant TB, and tubercular sacroiliitis are not considered as surgical indications, and hemoglobin and other health markers have little contribution to surgical indications.

Conclusion

In order to resolve several conundrums in the surgical treatment of adult spinal TB, this Delphi survey is the first to achieve a national consensus from spine experts. The final recommendations cover the serological, radiographic, and clinical aspects of spinal TB.
Novel selenium and/or copper substituted hydroxyapatite–gelatin–chitosan–eggshell membrane nanocomposite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications
Authors: Korowash Sara Ibrahim , Sharifulden Nik SA Nik , Ibrahim Doreya Mohamed , Chau David YS
Published: September 2023

Limitations with the majority of bone therapeutic treatments include low availability, ethical constraints and low biological compatibility. Although a number of choice materials have been exploited successfully, there has always been scope for improvement as well as development of the next-generation of materials. Herein, scaffolds – developed from gelatin, chitosan and eggshell membranes – were crosslinked using tannic acid, and further infused with selenium and/or copper substituted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles to generate a novel nanocomposite substrate. FESEM images of the nanocomposite scaffolds revealed the presence of interconnected pores, mostly spread over the whole surface of the scaffold, alongside XRD and FTIR profiling that detailed the formation of hydroxyapatite as a sole phase. Moreover, physical characterisation of the nanocomposite confirmed that the hydroxyapatite particulates and the eggshell membrane fibres were uniformly distributed and contributed to the surface roughness of the scaffold. Biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of the novel constructs were assessed using the mouse-derived osteoblastic cell line, MC3T3-E1, and standard cell culture assays. Metabolic activity assessment (i.e. MTS assay), LDH-release profiles and Live/Dead staining demonstrated good cell adhesion, viability, and proliferation rates. Accordingly, this work summarises the successful development of a novel construct which may be exploited as a clinical/therapeutic treatment for bone repair as well as a possible translational application as a novel biomaterial for the drug development pipeline.
Family Communication About Cancer in Korea: A Dyadic Analysis of Parent-Adolescent Conversation
Authors: Son Heeyeon , Miller Laura E.
Published: September 2023

Parent-adolescent communication is important in the context of childhood cancer. However, we know little about the communication experiences between Korean adolescents and their parents. Here, we conducted a secondary analysis of interview data from a qualitative descriptive study to explore Korean parent-adolescent communication experiences as a unit. Specifically, our dyadic analysis of individual interviews with seven Korean adolescents with cancer and at least one parent included inductive analysis at the individual level and cross-analysis to generate themes. The main theme was “ Experience the same thing, but see it differently,” along three subthemes: (1) different expectations for parent-adolescent communication, (2) different views on communication challenges, and (3) limited sharing and no progress in the conversation. Overall, our findings provide insights into different communication expectations and preferences between Korean adolescents and parents, and reasons for communication challenges, while emphasizing the individualized assessment of parent-adolescent communication between them.
Ascertaining Whether an Intelligent Voice Assistant Can Meet Older Adults’ Health-Related Needs in the Context of a Geriatrics 5Ms Framework
Authors: Lifset Ella T. , Charles Kemeberly , Farcas Emilia , Weibel Nadir , Hogarth Michael , Chen Chen , Johnson Janet G. , Draper Mary , Nguyen Annie L. , Moore Alison A.
Published: September 2023

The Geriatrics 5Ms: Medications, Mind, Mobility, what Matters most and Multicomplexity is a framework to address the complex needs of older adults. Intelligent Voice Assistants (IVAs) are increasingly popular and have potential to support health-related needs of older adults. We utilized previously collected qualitative data on older adults’ views of how an IVA may address their health-related needs and ascertained their fit into the Geriatrics 5Ms framework. The codes describing health challenges and potential IVA solutions fit the framework: (1) Medications: difficulty remembering medications. Solution: reminders. (2) Mind: isolation, anxiety, memory loss. Solution: companionship, memory aids. (3) Mobility: barriers to exercise. Solution: incentives, exercise ideas. (4) Matters most: eating healthy foods. Solution: suggest and order nutritious foods, (5) Multicomplexity; managing multimorbidity. Solution: symptom tracking and communicating with health care professionals. Incorporating the 5Ms framework into IVA design can aid in addressing health care priorities of older adults.
Feasibility and Acceptability of an INtervention TO Increase MOBility in Older Hospitalized Medical Patients (INTOMOB): A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study
Authors: Bergsma Dominique , Panait Claudia , Leist Pascal , Mooser Blandine , Pantano Lynn , Liechti Fabian D. , Gentizon Jenny , Baumgartner Christine , Mancinetti Marco , Méan Marie , Schmidt Leuenberger Joachim M. , Aubert Carole E.
Published: September 2023

Background: To reduce adverse outcomes of low hospital mobility, we need interventions that are scalable in everyday practice. This study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of the INTOMOB multilevel intervention addressing barriers to hospital mobility without requiring unavailable resources. Methods: The INTOMOB intervention, targeting older patients, healthcare professionals (HCPs) and the hospital environment, was implemented on acute general internal medicine wards of three hospitals (12/2022–03/2023). Feasibility and acceptability of the intervention were assessed and two types of accelerometers compared in a mixed methods study (patient and HCP surveys and interviews). Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively and qualitative data using a deductive approach. Results were integrated through meta-inferences. Results: Of 20 patients (mean age 74.1 years), 90% found the intervention helpful and 82% said the environment intervention (posters) stimulated mobility. The majority of 44 HCPs described the intervention as clear and helpful. There was no major implementation or technical issue. About 60% of patients and HCPs preferred a wrist-worn over an ankle-worn accelerometer. Conclusions: The INTOMOB intervention is feasible and well accepted. Patients’ and HCPs’ feedback allowed to further improve the intervention that will be tested in a cluster randomized trial and provides useful information for future mobility-fostering interventions.
Changes in stroke and TIA admissions during the COVID-19 pandemic: A meta-analysis
Authors: Gunnarsson Karin , Tofiq Avin , Mathew Alen , Cao Yang , von Euler Mia , Ström Jakob O
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

To perform a meta-analysis on how the admissions of stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) changed during the Corona Virus infection-19 (COVID-19) pandemic and evaluate if the effect was depending on stroke severity.

Methods:

Observational cohort studies comparing the number of stroke and/or TIA admissions during a period of the pandemic compared to a period before the pandemic were identified in PubMed and Embase. After excluding studies with overlapping populations and studies without satisfactory case ascertainment, data was extracted and meta-analyzed.

Findings:

A total of 59 studies were included. During the pandemic, there was a decrease in admissions of ischemic stroke (admission rate ratio (ARR) = 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.72, 0.82), intracerebral hemorrhage (ARR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.70, 0.90) and TIA (ARR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.58, 0.75). Albeit admission rates of both mild (ARR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.49, 0.77) and severe (ARR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.71, 0.95) strokes decreased, milder strokes decreased more (proportion ratio (PR) = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.65, 0.89).

Discussion:

Potential causes for the admission reduction could be strict prioritizations within the health care, patients’ fear of acquiring COVID-19, or decreased access to health care due to lockdowns.

Conclusion:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a reduction in admissions of stroke and TIA, possibly caused by reluctance to seek medical care.
Marginalized Life of Manual Scavengers: Questions of Witness Towards Society
Authors: Mohankumar S  , Srija V
Published: September 2023

In recent days, Tamil cinema has reached a wide range in marketing and popularity across the globe, gaining attention around the world through its style and techniques. Critics and researchers highlight and celebrate the recent changes in Tamil cinema as the ‘New Wave’. It readies to change gears in the aspects of theme, narration and choice of portraying the characters. Tamil cinema became a medium to express the voice of suppressed people. Directors pinpoint issues such as identity crisis, domestic violence and political ideologies. The issues and problems of subaltern people were totally neglected in Tamil cinema, but now they reflect reality. Witness is one of the movies on that list that discusses the pain of manual scavengers. The movie is not an emotional drama; rather, it questions society from different perspectives. It depicts the lives, sufferings and struggles of manual scavengers. The film not only raises questions but also serves as an answer to tangible questions. This paper discusses and highlights the literary works that mainly torched out the problems of manual scavengers in the present and past.
Book review: Rukmini Barua, In the Shadow of the Mill: Transformation of Workers’ Neighbourhoods in Ahmedabad, 1920s to 2000s
Authors: Shrivastava Devansh
Published: September 2023

Rukmini Barua, In the Shadow of the Mill: Transformation of Workers’ Neighbourhoods in Ahmedabad, 1920s to 2000 Cambridge University Press, 2022, 305 pp. $110, ISBN: 9781108838115.
Autoimmune-Related Retinopathy Presenting As Plaquenil Toxicity in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Ma Justin P. , Sarici Kubra , Iannaccone Alessandro , Hadziahmetovic Majda
Published: September 2023

Purpose: To report 3 cases of autoimmune retinopathy (AIR) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to explore the association between these conditions and highlight additional clinical consideration of AIR in patients presenting with atypical retinopathy in the context of hydroxychloroquine use. Methods: The medical and clinical follow-up records of 3 clinical cases were reviewed. The eligibility criteria were the absence of other retinopathy or systemic autoimmune diseases. Results: All patients had a long-standing diagnosis of SLE and had been taking hydroxychloroquine at a dose exceeding the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommendations. All 3 patients had extensive retinal degeneration atypical in appearance for drug toxicity alone. Examination, imaging, electroretinograms, and autoantibody assays eventually led to the diagnosis of AIR. Conclusions: Further study of the AIR and SLE may reveal an association between these conditions. In patients with SLE presenting with retinal degeneration, AIR may be underdiagnosed.
A Socio-legal Study in the Cambodian Ponzi Scheme: With Reference to Japan and the United States
Authors: Odham Soush Mony
Published: September 2023

This article recommends establishing an investment fraud investigation, a Customer Consultant Agency and a Victim’s Fund Recovery Team to address the problem of the Ponzi scheme in Cambodia. Furthermore, the paper also details how the enactment and law reform prevent customers or investors from becoming the scheme victims and improve prevention, detection, prosecution and fund recovery through the analysis of case studies. This paper focuses on domestic laws and supports that Cambodia should follow the US and Japan systems to counter the Ponzi scheme. This problem should be addressed through international cooperation in a strategic partnership way.
Dynamic changes in liver function tests do not correctly reclassify patients at risk of choledocholithiasis beyond ASGE 2019 criteria
Authors: Ramírez-Peña Tatiana , Vargas-Rubio Rómulo Darío , Lombo Carlos Ernesto , Rodríguez-Hortua Luis Miguel , Muñoz-Velandia Oscar Mauricio
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Dynamic changes in liver function tests have been proposed to correctly reclassify the risk of choledocholithiasis; however, information is scarce and insufficient to recommend its use.

Methods:

Retrospective cohort of patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) due to moderate and high risk of choledocholithiasis according to the 2019 American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) guidelines. We evaluated whether significant changes in liver function tests (bilirubin, transaminases, or alkaline phosphatase), defined as an increase or a reduction ⩾30 or ⩾50% between two measurements taken with a difference of 24–72 h can correctly reclassify the risk of choledocholithiasis beyond the ASGE guidelines. The net reclassification index (NRI) was calculated for patients with and without choledocholithiasis.

Results:

Among 1175 patients who underwent ERCP, 170 patients were included in the analysis (59.4% women, median 59.5 years). Among patients without a diagnosis of choledocholithiasis, the number of patients correctly reclassified by transaminases was slightly higher than those incorrectly reclassified (NRI = 0.24 for aspartate amino transaminase and 0.20 for alanine amino transaminase). However, among patients with a diagnosis of choledocholithiasis, it led to incorrect reclassification in a greater number of cases (NRI = −0.21 and −0.14, respectively). The benefits of reclassification were minimal for bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase, or for value changes >50%. A subgroup analysis showed similar findings in patients without a history of cholecystectomy and in those with normal bile duct.

Conclusion:

Dynamic changes in liver function tests do not improve choledocholithiasis risk classification beyond the 2019 ASGE criteria. New criteria should continue to be sought to optimize risk stratification.
Benign urinary bladder masses: rare entities
Authors: Jakus Dora , Jurić Ivan , Šitum Marijan
Published: September 2023

Background

This study aimed to present the characteristics and outcomes of benign urinary bladder masses, as well as the characteristics of the patients diagnosed with such lesions.

Methods

A single-center, cross-sectional, retrospective study was conducted. The study involved patients who underwent transurethral resection of the primary bladder tumor over a four-year period (May 2017–2021) and were subsequently diagnosed with a benign bladder lesion.

Results

Out of 478 patients who underwent transurethral resection of the primary bladder tumor, 26 (5.4%) were diagnosed with a benign bladder lesion. The most common benign bladder lesion was urothelial papilloma (50%, 13 patients). The majority of patients with urothelial papilloma were men (76.9%) and had a history of smoking (61.5%). The mean age was 62 years. Most were diagnosed accidentally (69.2%), while others presented with hematuria (23.1%) or dysuria (7.7%). Most urothelial papillomas had a macroscopic polypoid appearance (61.5%), and most of them were solitary (84.6%), with a mean size amounting to 1 cm. Only one patient experienced a recurrence and developed papillary urothelial neoplasm of low malignant potential (PUNLMP). Cystitis cystica/glandularis and polypoid cystitis were the second most commonly diagnosed benign bladder lesion, each identified in 3 patients. Singular cases of leiomyoma, inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, chondroma, paraganglioma, villous adenoma, eosinophilic cystitis (pseudotumor), and ectopic prostatic tissue are described.

Conclusion

Benign bladder lesions constitute a group of various rare entities that can clinically and radiologically mimic urothelial carcinoma, but mostly show a good prognosis and a low incidence of recurrence.
Gap between the concerns of healthcare professionals and parents’ perceptions regarding dietary habits for 18-month- and 3-year-old children in Japan
Authors: Ishikawa Midori , Morinaga Yumiko , Haraikawa Mayu , Akiyama Yuka , Sasaki Kemal , Horie Saki , Yoshiike Nobuo , Yamazaki Yoshihisa , Yokoyama Tetsuji
Published: September 2023

Background

A gap has been reported between healthcare professionals’ (hereafter “professionals”) recognition of preschool children’s diets and parents’ perception of concern. This study investigated the gap between the concerns reported by professionals and parents’ perceptions regarding health and dietary habits by age (18 months and 3 years) and gender in Japan.

Methods

The study design consisted of a cross-sectional, multilevel survey. The request letters were sent to all households with target children with the cooperation of local governments. After obtaining written informed consent from parents, questionnaires were distributed to them. The survey included 30 items on children's concerns about health and dietary habits. At the health checkup, parents indicated whether they were concerned in response to each item, and responded child’s height and weight and birth height and weight. Next, the professionals provided counseling to the parents at a health checkup. After that, the professionals noted their concerns in response to the same 30 items as those given to parents. The participation rates were 82.9% (18 months) and 82.8% (3 years). Data of 239 persons for 18 months and 223 persons for 3 years old were analyzed. In the statistical analysis, the items that were judged as concerning by professionals but not by parents were identified; likewise, the items that were of concern to parents but not to professionals were identified. Sensitivity, false negative rate, specificity, false positive rate, and Youden index were calculated to analyze the discordance rate for each item.

Results

Many parents in this study were concerned about the issues that professionals did not consider to be concerning. Moreover, the parents worried about more issues for 3-year-olds than for 18-month-olds. The items for which ≥ 10 professionals indicated concerns and with higher discordance between the professionals and parents for both boys and girls were “picky eating” for 18-month-olds and “inconsistent amount of food” for 3-year-olds.

Conclusions

The concerns that professionals have with respect to children's diets and the things that parents worry about show gaps. It might be necessary to provide professional counseling for parents to develop a correct understanding of their children’s dietary habits.
Association of cigarette smoking with increased use of heated tobacco products in middle-aged and older adults with self-reported chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and asthma-COPD overlap in Japan, 2022: the JASTIS study
Authors: Noguchi Shingo , Ishimaru Tomohiro , Fujino Yoshihisa , Yatera Kazuhiro , Tabuchi Takahiro
Published: September 2023

Background

Smoking cessation is the most important intervention in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and asthma-COPD overlap (ACO); however, high rates of current cigarette smoking are observed in adults with these respiratory diseases. Meanwhile, rapidly increasing use of heated tobacco products (HTPs) is observed in Japan; however, the status of HTPs use has not been fully understood in adults with COPD, asthma, and ACO. This study aimed to reveal the association between COPD, asthma, and ACO and HTPs use in adults.

Methods

Data on Japanese individuals ≥ 40 years old obtained from the Japan Society and New Tobacco Internet Survey were analyzed. The prevalence of HTPs use in adults with COPD, asthma, and ACO, among individuals categorized into three groups according to cigarette smoking (never, former, and current), was calculated and the relationship between each disease and HTPs use were evaluated. The clinical diagnosis of these diseases was based on the self-reported diagnosis, as obtained from questionnaires.

Results

A total of 19,308 individuals were included. The proportions of never, past, and current cigarettes smokers were 10,900 (56.5%), 4,903 (25.4%), and 3,505 (18.2%), respectively, and that of HTPs use was 1,813 (9.4%). In current cigarettes smokers, the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of HTPs use was 2.88 (95% CI [confidence interval], 1.86–4.47), 1.23 (95% CI, 0.99–1.52), and 5.81 (95% CI, 3.12–10.82) in adults with COPD, asthma, and ACO compared to those without these respiratory diseases, respectively. Meanwhile, in past cigarettes smokers, the adjusted ORs of HTPs use was 0.51 (95% CI, 0.24–1.08), 0.69 (95% CI, 0.53–0.88), and 0.25 (95% CI, 0.06–1.07) in adults with COPD, asthma, and ACO, respectively.

Conclusions

HTPs use is more prevalent among current cigarettes smokers with COPD, asthma, and ACO compared to those without these respiratory diseases. Complete cessation of smoking both cigarettes and HTPs is the only way to achieve complete smoking cessation, therefore, adults with COPD, asthma, and ACO need to make greater efforts to quit smoking.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Serum bilirubin levels in primary Sjögren’s syndrome: an association with interstitial lung disease
Authors: Peng You-Fan , Lu Fei-Yan , Ma Li-Ya
Published: September 2023

Objective

We aimed to assess the association between serum bilirubin levels and interstitial lung disease (ILD) in patients with Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS).

Materials and methods

The retrospectively analysis included 89 consecutive patients with pSS, we collected the clinical materials of pSS patients from the electronic medical records, and all pSS patients were divide into pSS with ILD group and pSS without ILD group.

Results

Serum bilirubin levels were significantly lower in pSS patients with ILD than those without ILD (p = 0.010). Serum bilirubin levels showed a significant negative correlation with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (r = -0.321, p = 0.002) in patients with pSS. A multivariable logistic regression analysis confirmed that serum bilirubin presented an independent association with ILD in patients with pSS (OR = 0.841, 95%CI:0.728–0.972, p = 0.019).

Conclusion

Serum bilirubin is independently associated with ILD and therefore may be a promising marker of ILD in patients with pSS.
Active surveillance should not be routinely considered in ISUP grade group 2 prostate cancer
Authors: Gandaglia Giorgio , Leni Riccardo , Plagakis Sophie , Stabile Armando , Montorsi Francesco , Briganti Alberto
Published: September 2023

Active surveillance has been proposed as a therapeutic option in selected intermediate risk patients with biopsy grade group 2 prostate cancer. However, its oncologic safety in this setting is debated. Therefore, we conducted a non-systematic literature research of contemporary surveillance protocols including patients with grade group 2 disease to collect the most recent evidence in this setting. Although no randomized controlled trial compared curative-intent treatments, namely radical prostatectomy and radiotherapy vs. active surveillance in patients with grade group 2 disease, surgery is associated with a benefit in terms of disease control and survival when compared to expectant management in the intermediate risk setting. Patients with grade group 2 on active surveillance were at higher risk of disease progression and treatment compared to their grade group 1 counterparts. Up to 50% of those patients were eventually treated at 5 years, and the metastases-free survival rate was as low as 85% at 15-years. When considering low- and intermediate risk patients treated with radical prostatectomy, grade group 2 was one of the strongest predictors of grade upgrading and adverse features. Available data is insufficient to support the oncologic safety of active surveillance in all men with grade group 2 prostate cancer. Therefore, those patients should be counselled regarding the oncologic efficacy of upfront active treatment modalities and the lack of robust long-term data supporting the safety of active surveillance in this setting.
CBCT and Micro-CT analysis of the mandibular first premolars with C-shaped canal system in a Chinese population author
Authors: Zhang Yimeng , Weng Xunben , Fu Yu , Qi Xuekai , Pan Yihuai , Zhao Yu
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to survey the prevalence of C-shaped root canal system in mandibular first premolar in Chinese population by reading Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images and to analyze its anatomical characteristics by CBCT and Micro–computed tomography (Micro-CT).

Methods and materials

The prevalence and the morphologic features of C-shaped root canal system were evaluated by observing CBCT images of 760 patients (1520 mandibular first premolars). 66 mandibular first premolars with C-shaped root canal system were scanned by Micro-CT. The morphologic features including radicular groove, C-shaped root canal categories in the cross-sections and in the 3D models, accessory and connecting canals, apical foramina and accessory foramina, were analyzed using image software.

Results

C-shaped root canal system was identified in 16.9% of mandibular first premolars. The minimum mesial wall thickness most commonly occurred at the lingual site (69.7%). Regarding to the cross-sectional classification, the maximum was C2 (41.5%). In the 3D classification, the most common was S (34.8%). Accessory canals were observed in 36.4% of the samples and occurred mostly in the middle and apical regions. 42.4% samples had 1–3 variable connecting canals, and 40.9% samples had only one apical foramen.

Conclusions

The incidence of C-shaped root canal system in mandibular first premolars was 16.9% in the Chinese population. The anatomy was very complex and variable, mostly distributed in the middle and apical regions of the root canal. The mesial wall of C-shaped canal was extremely thin on the lingual side.
Perception about human papillomavirus vaccination among middle adolescent school girls in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 2023: qualitative study
Authors: Wubu Abel , Balta Bargude , Cherie Amsale , Bizuwork Ketema
Published: September 2023

Background

Human papillomavirus vaccine uptake among school girls in Ethiopia was still low and uptake was majorly related to perception regarding the vaccine. This study explored school girls’ perceptions of Human papillomavirus vaccination in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Objectives

The main aim of this study was to explore the perception of secondary school girls towards Human Papilloma Virus vaccine in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 2023.

Methods

A qualitative research using focused group discussions were used to explore middle adolescent school girls’ perceptions of Human papillomavirus in Addis Ababa Ethiopia from March 2023-April 2023. A focus group discussion guide was employed with potential probes to achieve study objectives. A convenience sampling technique was performed to select study participants. The collected data were transcribed and translated into English and thematic analysis was done by using Atlas-Ti software version 7.5.16.

Result

Two dominant themes emerged from the study; perceived benefits and potential barriers to Human papillomavirus vaccine uptake. Poor awareness, lack of family support, perception of poor vaccine quality, fear of side effects, misconceptions, and myths are potential barriers to the Human papillomavirus vaccine. Some students perceive the vaccine as important in the prevention of cervical cancer, others are not sure about the importance of the vaccine and many students think that the vaccine can cause infertility and other beliefs it can cause diseases.

Conclusion

The perceived benefits of the Human papillomavirus vaccine was; it prevents cervical cancer enhance acceptability and can be an important motivation for Human papillomavirus vaccination among students. The main barriers to vaccine uptake and acceptance were; lack of awareness, misconceptions, and myths, lack of credible information sources of vaccines, perception of poor vaccine quality, Poor family support, and cultural and religious perspectives. We recommend the development of strong collaborations that work on identified challenges.
Antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties of endophytic fungi isolated from Thysanolaena maxima Roxb., Dracaena spicata Roxb. and Aglaonema hookerianum Schott.
Authors: Hoque Nazia , Khan Zihan Rahman , Rashid Parisa Tamannur , Begum Mst. Nadira , Sharmin Suriya , Hossain Md. Jamal , Rana Md. Sohel , Sohrab Md. Hossain
Published: September 2023

Background

Endophytic fungi have recently been recognized as an impressive source of natural biomolecules. The primary objective of the research was to isolate fungal endophytes from Thysanolaena maxima Roxb., Dracaena spicata Roxb. and Aglaonema hookerianum Schott. of Bangladesh and assess their pharmacological potentialities focusing on antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties.

Methods

The fungal isolates were identified up to the genus level by analyzing their macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. Ethyl acetate extracts of all the fungal isolates were screened for different bioactivities, including antimicrobial (disc diffusion method), antioxidant (DPPH scavenging assay), and cytotoxic (brine shrimp lethality bioassay) activities.

Results

Among the thirteen isolates, Fusarium sp. was the most recognized genus, while the others belonged to Colletotrichum sp. and Pestalotia sp. Comparing the bioactivity of all the extracts, Fusarium sp. was shown to be the most effective endophyte, followed by Colletotrichum sp. and Pestalotia sp. In the antimicrobial study, two isolates of Fusarium sp. (internal strain nos. DSLE-1 and AHPE-4) showed inhibitory activity against all the tested bacteria and the highest zone of inhibition (15.5 ± 0.4 mm) was exerted by AHPE-4 against Bacillus subtillis. All the fungal isolates produced mild to moderate free radical scavenging activity, where the highest antioxidant activity was revealed by one isolate of Fusarium sp. (internal strain no. AHPE-3) with an IC50 value of 84.94 ± 0.41 µg/mL. The majority of Fusarium sp. isolates exhibited notable cytotoxic activity, where AHPE-4 exhibited the highest cytotoxicity, having the LC50 value of 14.33 ± 4.5 µg/mL.

Conclusion

The findings of the study endorsed that the fungal endophytes isolated from T. maxima, D. spicata, and A. hookerianum hold potential as valuable origins of bioactive substances. Nevertheless, more comprehensive research is warranted, which could develop novel natural compounds from these endophytes to treat various infectious and cancerous diseases.