bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of sutureless scleral fixed intraocular lens implantation on aphakic eyes: a system review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Zhao , Xie Qian , Chen XingWang , Xie Bing , Cai ShanJun
Published: December 2023

Background

Sutureless scleral fixed intraocular lens implantation (SF-IOL) has become one of the mainstream schemes in clinical treatment of aphakic eyes because of its advantages, such as avoiding dislocation of intraocular lens or subluxation caused by suture degradation or fracture and significant improvement of postoperative visual acuity. However, a consensus on the relative effectiveness and safety of this operation and other methods is still lacking. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of sutureless SF-IOL with other methods. Aphakia means that the lens leaves the normal position and loses its original function, including absence or complete dislocation and subluxation of the lens which could cause anisometropic amblyopia, strabismus, and loss of binocular function in children and adolescents. For adults, the loss of the lens could lead to high hyperopia and affect vision. Above all this disease can seriously affect the quality of life of patients.

Methods

Literature about sutureless SF-IOL in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Technical Journal VIP database, and Wanfang database published from 2000 to 2022 was reviewed. The weighted average difference was calculated by RevMan5.3 software for analysis. Two researchers independently selected the study and used the Cochrane collaboration tool to assess the risk of errors. Cochrane bias risk tool was used to evaluate the quality of evidence. This study is registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022363282).

Results

The postoperative IOL-related astigmatism of sutureless SF-IOL was lower than that of suture SF-IOL, and there was statistical difference when we compared the absolute postoperative spherical equivalent after sutureless SF-IOL and suture SF-IOL. Indicating that the degree of refractive error after sutureless SF-IOL was lower. Meanwhile, the operation time of sutureless SF-IOL was shorter than that of suture SF-IOL. The subgroup analysis showed that the absolute postoperative spherical equivalent and astigmatism values in Yamane technique were lower than those in suture SF-IOL.

Conclusion

Sutureless SF-IOL has the advantages of stable refraction, short operation time, and less postoperative complications. However, high-quality literature to compare these technologies is lacking. Some long-term follow-up longitudinal prospective studies are needed to confirm the findings.
Health-related quality of life of children from low-income families: the new patterns study
Authors: Haraldstad Kristin , Abildsnes Eirik , Bøe Tormod , Vigsnes Kristine L. , Wilson Philip , Mølland Eirin
Published: December 2023

Background

Child poverty has been gradually rising, and about 12% of all Norwegian children are living in a state of relative poverty. This study was part of the New Patterns project, which recruits low-income families requiring long-term welfare services. Included families receive integrated welfare services, with the help of a family coordinator. The current study objectives were to explore the associations between HRQoL, demographic variables (age, gender, immigration status) and leisure activities in children and adolescents in low-income families.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among low-income families. Participating families had children (N = 214) aged 8–18 years.The family had a household income below 60% of the equivalized median population income for three consecutive years and needed long-term welfare services. HRQoL was measured using the KIDSCREEN-27 self-report instrument. Descriptive statistics, including means, standard deviations, and proportions, were calculated, and ordinary least squares regressions were performed, clustering standard errors at the family level.

Results

Compared with boys, girls reported lower HRQoL on only one out of five dimensions, physical wellbeing. In the regression analysis we found statistically significant positive associations between migrant status and HRQoL on all five dimensions: physical wellbeing, psychological wellbeing, parents and autonomy, peers and social support, and school environment. In addition, age was associated with school environment, and age, gender and participation in leisure activities was associated with better physical wellbeing.

Conclusions

Baseline results regarding HRQoL among children and adolescents in low-income families indicate that they have overall good HRQoL, though some participants had low HRQoL scores, especially on the physical and social support dimensions. Children with an immigrant background report higher HRQoL than do children without an immigrant background.
Migration and health study: a socio-ecological analysis of sexual health among migrants in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Souleymanov Rusty , Akinyele-Akanbi Bolaji , Njeze Chinyere , Ukoli Patricia , Migliardi Paula , Kim John , Payne Michael , Ringaert Laurie , Restall Gayle , Larcombe Linda , Lachowsky Nathan , Khan Mohammad Nuruzzaman , Lorway Robert , Pino Fritz
Published: December 2023

Background

To develop effective public health policies, programs, and services tailored to the unique sexual health needs of migrant populations, it is essential to understand the myriad socio-ecological factors that influence their sexual health. This qualitative community-based participatory study aimed to explore factors influencing migrants’ sexual health at different socio-ecological levels in a Canadian setting.

Methods

Participants (n = 34) from African, Caribbean, Black; Latin American; South Asian; Middle Eastern, as well as East and Southeast Asian communities were recruited across Manitoba using printed flyers, community organizations, and social media. Individual interviews, conducted in English, French, Mandarin, Cantonese, Tagalog, Arabic, Swahili, and Tigrinya languages, explored questions relating to sexual health and experiences with service providers. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis and socio-ecological systems theory.

Results

The study uncovered a range of individual, interpersonal, institutional, and socio-structural factors that affect the sexual health of migrants in Manitoba. Individual factors such as sexual health knowledge and testing practices, interpersonal factors like the type of sexual partnerships, institutional factors such as sexual health information needs, language, and service access barriers, and structural-level factors like gender norms and HIV stigma exerted a significant influence on the sexual health practices of study respondents. Sexual health awareness was influenced by various factors including length of time in Canada and involvement in community-based services. Study respondents identified issues related to access to HIV testing and sexual health information, as well as language barriers, racism in healthcare, and HIV stigma. Gender and social norms played a significant role in discouraging communication about sex and safer sex practices.

Conclusions

The study highlights the complex interplay of factors that influence the sexual health of migrants, and the need for targeted sexual health awareness campaigns and provision of sexual health information in languages spoken by migrants. Public health interventions focused on improving the sexual health outcomes for migrants should consider the socio-ecological elements identified in this study. These findings can inform public health campaigns to increase access to services and address sexual health inequities among migrant communities in Canada.
Inflow control can be safely used in laparoscopic subsegmentectomy of the liver: a single-center 10-year experience
Authors: Wang Hao-Ping , Hou Teng-Yuan , Li Wei-Feng , Yong Chee-Chien
Published: December 2023

Background

Several techniques have been developed to reduce blood loss in liver resection. The half-Pringle and Pringle maneuvers are commonly used for inflow control. This study compared the outcomes of different inflow control techniques in laparoscopic subsegmentectomy.

Methods

From October 2010 to December 2020, a total of 362 laparoscopic liver resections were performed by a single surgeon (C.C. Yong) in our institute. We retrospectively enrolled 133 patients who underwent laparoscopic subsegmentectomy during the same period. Perioperative and long-term outcomes were analyzed.

Results

The 133 patients were divided into 3 groups: no inflow control (n = 49), half-Pringle maneuver (n = 46), and Pringle maneuver (n = 38). A lower proportion of patients with cirrhosis were included in the half-Pringle maneuver group (P = .02). Fewer patients in the half-Pringle maneuver group had undergone previous abdominal (P = .01) or liver (P = .02) surgery. The no inflow control group had more patients with tumors located in the anterolateral segments (P = .001). The no inflow control group had a shorter operation time (P < .001) and less blood loss (P = .03). The need for blood transfusion, morbidity, and hospital days did not differ among the 3 groups. The overall survival did not significantly differ among the 3 groups (P = .89).

Conclusions

The half-Pringle and Pringle maneuvers did not affect perioperative or long-term outcomes during laparoscopic subsegmentectomy. The inflow control maneuvers could be safely performed in laparoscopic subsegmentectomy.
Application of the extended theory of planned behavior to predict dentist intention and behavior in providing caries preventive care for preschool children
Authors: Khairinisa Safira , Darwita Risqa Rina , Maharani Diah Ayu , Setiawati Febriana
Published: December 2023

Background

Various studies show a gap between evidence-based recommendations and the preventive practice of dentists. This study aimed to create and assess an extended Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) model on dentists' intentions to do caries preventive measures and related barriers experienced by dentists.

Methods

A total of 362 general dentists from 34 Indonesian provinces were included in this study. A self-administered online questionnaire consisted of three sections: dentist characteristics and practice pattern, TPB questionnaire, and dentist perceived behavior regarding preventive care for pediatric patients. The questionnaire was distributed and the data was analyzed through structural equation modeling.

Results

TPB's extended version is a fit and relevant model, explaining 55.3% of dentists' intentions to undertake preventive procedures and 17.8% of preventive practices. Perceived behavioral control was the most powerful predictor of intention (44.2%) and practice (8.8%), while parental barriers were the most significant barrier to provide preventive care (18.9%).

Conclusion

Extending the TPB by taking barriers from multiple stakeholders as a consideration has a higher predictive level for preventive practices. Each barrier should be addressed through oral health programs and policies, and dentists must be taught to overcome these barriers (through formal or continuing education) in order to maximize caries prevention strategies.
Use of health services and medication use, new comorbidities, and mortality in patients with chronic diseases who did not contract COVID-19 during the first year of the pandemic: a retrospective study and comparison by sex
Authors: Mahuela Liliana , Oliván-Blázquez Bárbara , Lear-Claveras Ana , Méndez-López Fátima , Samper-Pardo Mario , León-Herrera Sandra , Magallón-Botaya Rosa , Sánchez-Calavera María Antonia
Published: December 2023

Background

The restrictions introduced to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus have also had a direct impact on people with chronic diseases and especially on diseases to which lifestyles are relevant in their control and management, such as diabetes, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), etc. The purpose of this paper is to conduct a longitudinal analysis of new comorbidities, mortality, medication use, and the use of health resources in patients with chronic diseases who did not contract COVID-19, comparing the six months before the strict lockdown to the 12 months following the end of the strict lockdown.

Method

An observational real world data pre-post study of 668,974 people was undertaken. The patients studied were over 16 years of age, had been receiving care from the Aragon Health Service (Northeastern Spain), were diagnosed with one or more chronic diseases, and had not contracted COVID-19. Sociodemographic, comorbidity, pharmacological and health resource use variables were collected during the six months before the onset of the lockdown and during the six and 12 months following the end of the lockdown. The comparisons by sex were carried out using a Student T-test or chi-squared test to analyse differences.

Results

Dyslipidaemia (42.1%) followed by hypertension (35.1%) and anxiety and depression (34.6%) were the most prevalent chronic diseases among the study population. 78.% of patients had between one and four chronic illnesses. There was a decrease in new diagnoses of other chronic comorbidities in this population and a decrease in medications prescribed and the use of health services.  Although women received more diagnoses of chronic diseases, the number of medications dispensed was lower, but the use of health services was higher. These figures were maintained throughout the pandemic.

Conclusion

Our results suggest an underdiagnosis of new chronic comorbidities and a decrease in mortality rates from causes unrelated to COVID-19 due to the closure of health centres in Aragón (Spain) during the lockdown. This trend was exacerbated in women. The underdiagnosis of new chronic comorbidities during confinement can cause the disease to worsen, with the consequent increase in symptoms and the worsening of chronic pathologies in patients with a severe evolution.
Explaining Iranian midwives’ experiences of providing healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study
Authors: Moghasemi Sedigheh , Adib Moghaddam Elham , Arab Sahar
Published: December 2023

Background

COVID-19 has changed and challenged the way health and maternity care is provided. Midwives are among the first and most influential maternity care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, there is inadequate information about their experiences in providing healthcare services, particularly in Iran. The present study was conducted to explain the midwives’ experiences of providing healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic in Gorgan.

Methods

The present study was conducted qualitatively through the inductive content analysis method in 2022. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. A total of 21 individuals were selected as participants using a purposeful method and the maximum diversity strategy.

Results

Data analysis led to the emergence of 377 codes, 12 subcategories, and 3 main categories, including, the laborious occupational challenges for midwives during the pandemic, identifying and creating new opportunities for the development of the midwifery profession, and the lack of perceived organizational and social support.

Conclusions

During the COVID-19 pandemic, midwives experienced various challenges in providing healthcare services, yet sacrificed themselves to perform their duties and provide quality care incessantly. The COVID-19 pandemic was a combination of laborious occupational challenges and individual and professional growth opportunities for midwives in Iran. Strong and managed organizational support is essential to overcome the crisis, maintain the workforce, and empower them to deal with future crises.
Determinants of willingness to pay for community-based health insurance scheme among households in rural community of southern Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Yonas , Belayneh Fanuel
Published: December 2023

Background

Community-based health insurance programs are being acknowledged as effective strategies to attain universal health coverage and mitigate the financial catastrophic shock of the community. Even though Ethiopia has been focusing on the implementation and expansion of a community-based health insurance (CBHI) program since 2011, only a small number of people are enrolled, which might be attributed to a lack of willingness towards the program. The purpose of this study is to determine the willingness to pay for community-based health insurance and associated factors among households in the rural community of Gombora District, Hadiya Zone, southern Ethiopia.

Methods

Using the multistage systematic random sampling technique, a sample of 421 households was chosen for a community-based cross-sectional study. The desired information was gathered using a pre-tested, structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. The data was entered using Epi-Data V3.1 and exported to SPSS version 24.0 for statistical analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the variables associated with the willingness to pay for community-based health insurance.

Results

The study showed that 67.1% of respondents expressed a willingness to pay for community-based health insurance. The mean amount of money they are willing to pay for the scheme is 178.41 (± 57.21) Ethiopian Birr (ETB), or 6.43 (± 2.06) USD per household per annum in 2020. Based on multiple logistic regression analysis, belonging to Rich household compared to poor (AOR: 2.78, 95% CI: 1.54, 5.03), having a household head who can read and write (AOR: 2.90, 95% CI: 1.39, 6.05), family size greater than five (AOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.06, 2.92), indigenous community insurance (iddir) participation (AOR: 2.83, 95% CI: 1.61, 4.96), and the presence of chronic illness (AOR: 1.94, 95% CI: 1.21, 3.12), were significantly associated with the willingness to pay for a CBHI scheme.

Conclusion

Households’ willingness to pay for a CBHI scheme was found to be significantly influenced by poor household wealth status, household heads who cannot read and write, households with less than or equal to five family members, households who participate in greater or equal to two indigenous community insurance participations, and the absence of chronic illness within the household. Therefore, factors affecting households’ willingness to pay should be considered and massive community mobilization needs to be done to strengthen and increase household membership during the implementation of the CBHI scheme, especially in rural areas.
The establishment of a recombinase polymerase amplification technique for the detection of mouse poxvirus
Authors: Lian Yuexiao , Zhang Mengdi , Zhu Yujun , Wu Miaoli , Huang Bihong , Xiao Li , Shi Kehang , Li Peide , Cong Feng , Wang Huanan
Published: December 2023

Background

Ectromelia virus (ECTV) is the causative agent of mousepox in mice. In the past century, ECTV was a serious threat to laboratory mouse colonies worldwide. Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), which is widely used in virus detection, is an isothermal amplification method.

Results

In this study, a probe-based RPA detection method was established for rapid and sensitive detection of ECTV.Primers were designed for the highly conserved region of the crmD gene, the main core protein of recessive poxvirus, and standard plasmids were constructed. The lowest detection limit of the ECTV RT- RPA assay was 100 copies of DNA mol-ecules per reaction. In addition, the method showed high specificity and did not cross-react with other common mouse viruses.Therefore, the practicability of the RPA method in the field was confirmed by the detection of 135 clinical samples. The real-time RPA assay was very similar to the ECTV real-time PCR assay, with 100% agreement.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this RPA assay offers a novel alternative for the simple, sensitive, and specific identification of ECTV, especially in low-resource settings.
Causal associations between liver traits and Colorectal cancer: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ni Ying , Wang Wenkai , Liu Yongming , Jiang Yun
Published: December 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the causal associations between several liver traits (liver iron content, percent liver fat, alanine transaminase levels, and liver volume) and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk using a Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to improve our understanding of the disease and its management.

Methods

Genetic variants were used as instrumental variables, extracted from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) datasets of liver traits and CRC. The Two-Sample MR package in R was used to conduct inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR Egger, Maximum likelihood, Weighted median, and Inverse variance weighted (multiplicative random effects) MR approaches to generate overall estimates of the effect. MR analysis was conducted with Benjamini-Hochberg method-corrected P values to account for multiple testing (P < 0.013). MR-PRESSO was used to identify and remove outlier genetic variants in Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. The MR Steiger test was used to assess the validity of the assumption that exposure causes outcomes. Leave-one-out validation, pleiotropy, and heterogeneity testing were also conducted to ensure the reliability of the results. Multivariable MR was utilized for validation of our findings using the IVW method while also adjusting for potential confounding or pleiotropy bias.

Results

The MR analysis suggested a causal effect between liver volume and a reduced risk of CRC (OR 0.60; 95% CI, 0.44–0.82; P = 0.0010) but did not provide evidence for causal effects of liver iron content, percent liver fat, or liver alanine transaminase levels. The MR-PRESSO method did not identify any outliers, and the MR Steiger test confirmed that the causal direction of the analysis results was correct in the Mendelian randomization analysis. MR results were consistent with heterogeneity and pleiotropy analyses, and leave-one-out analysis demonstrated the overall values obtained were consistent with estimates obtained when all available SNPs were included in the analysis. Multivariable MR was utilized for validation of our findings using the IVW method while also adjusting for potential confounding or pleiotropy bias.

Conclusion

The study provides tentative evidence for a causal role of liver volume in CRC, while genetically predicted levels of liver iron content, percent liver fat, and liver alanine transaminase levels were not associated with CRC risk. The findings may inform the development of targeted therapeutic interventions for colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) patients, and the study highlights the importance of MR as a powerful epidemiological tool for investigating causal associations between exposures and outcomes.
Association between frequency of breakfast intake before and during pregnancy and developmental delays in children: the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study
Authors: Aizawa Misato , Murakami Keiko , Takahashi Ippei , Ohseto Hisashi , Noda Aoi , Shinoda Genki , Orui Masatsugu , Ishikuro Mami , Obara Taku , Hamada Hirotaka , Iwama Noriyuki , Saito Masatoshi , Sugawara Junichi , Kuriyama Shinichi
Published: December 2023

Background

Although an association between maternal nutritional intake and developmental delays in children has been demonstrated, the association of the timing of meal intake and development delays remains unclear. We examined the association between breakfast intake frequency before and during pregnancy and developmental delay in children.

Methods

Of the pregnant women who participated in the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Three-Generation Cohort Study, 7491 answered the required questions and were analyzed. The frequency of breakfast intake from pre- to early pregnancy and from early to mid-pregnancy was classified into four groups: daily, and 5–6, 3–4, and 0–2 times/week. Child developmental delays at age 2 and 3.5 years were assessed using the Ages & Stages Questionnaire, Third Edition. Logistic regression models were constructed to examine the association between breakfast intake frequency in pregnant women and developmental delays in children aged 2 and 3.5 years.

Results

The proportion of pregnant women who had breakfast daily was 78.1% in pre- to early pregnancy, and 82.2% in early to mid-pregnancy. The proportion of children with developmental delays was 14.7% and 13.4% at age 2 and 3.5 years, respectively. Compared with the risk in children of women who had breakfast daily from pre- to early pregnancy, children of women who had breakfast 0–2 times/week had a higher risk of developmental delays at 2 years of age: odds ratio (OR) 1.30, (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02–1.66). The risk of developmental delays at age 2 years increased in the children of women who had breakfast 0–2 times/week in early to mid- pregnancy: OR 1.75 (95% CI, 1.32–2.32). The risk of developmental delays at age 3.5 years did not increase in the children of women who had breakfast 0–2 times/week from pre- to early and early to mid-pregnancy: OR 1.06 (95% CI, 0.81–1.39 and OR 1.15 (95% CI 0.84–1.57), respectively.

Conclusion

For women with a low frequency of breakfast intake from pre- to mid-pregnancy there was an association with developmental delays in their children at age 2, but not at 3.5 years.
Deep learning-driven multi-view multi-task image quality assessment method for chest CT image
Authors: Su Jialin , Li Meifang , Lin Yongping , Xiong Liu , Yuan Caixing , Zhou Zhimin , Yan Kunlong
Published: December 2023

Background

Chest computed tomography (CT) image quality impacts radiologists’ diagnoses. Pre-diagnostic image quality assessment is essential but labor-intensive and may have human limitations (fatigue, perceptual biases, and cognitive biases). This study aims to develop and validate a deep learning (DL)-driven multi-view multi-task image quality assessment (M$$^2$$

2

IQA) method for assessing the quality of chest CT images in patients, to determine if they are suitable for assessing the patient’s physical condition.

Methods

This retrospective study utilizes and analyzes chest CT images from 327 patients. Among them, 1613 images from 286 patients are used for model training and validation, while the remaining 41 patients are reserved as an additional test set for conducting ablation studies, comparative studies, and observer studies. The M$$^2$$

2

IQA method is driven by DL technology and employs a multi-view fusion strategy, which incorporates three scanning planes (coronal, axial, and sagittal). It assesses image quality for multiple tasks, including inspiration evaluation, position evaluation, radiation protection evaluation, and artifact evaluation. Four algorithms (pixel threshold, neural statistics, region measurement, and distance measurement) have been proposed, each tailored for specific evaluation tasks, with the aim of optimizing the evaluation performance of the M$$^2$$

2

IQA method.

Results

In the additional test set, the M$$^2$$

2

IQA method achieved 87% precision, 93% sensitivity, 69% specificity, and a 0.90 F1-score. Extensive ablation and comparative studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms and the generalization performance of the proposed method across various assessment tasks.

Conclusion

This study develops and validates a DL-driven M$$^2$$

2

IQA method, complemented by four proposed algorithms. It holds great promise in automating the assessment of chest CT image quality. The performance of this method, as well as the effectiveness of the four algorithms, is demonstrated on an additional test set.
We’re here too: child health information-seeking experiences and preferences of Red River Métis families – a qualitative study
Authors: Knisley Lisa , Driedger S. Michelle , Hartling Lisa , Chartrand Frances , Sanguins Julianne , Scott Shannon D.
Published: December 2023

Background

Red River Métis families need access to meaningful and appropriate resources when their children are sick. At the invitation of the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) to partner in this research, our aim was to understand Red River Métis parents’ experiences and preferences for seeking child health information when their child is acutely ill, to inform the adaptation of existing parent resources.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive approach underpinned by a participatory paradigm guided this study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 Red River Métis parents and Elders via Zoom or telephone. An inductive thematic analysis approach was used to explore patterns and themes across the data.

Results

Analysis generated four themes: (1) We’re here too; (2) We are not all the same; (3) Finding trustworthy information; and (4) Information needs to be widely available. Red River Métis pride was prominent in the results. Parents provided tangible ways to modify existing parent resources, including adding information on how to access Elders, healers and/or traditional medicines and showing different family structures, transport, living situations, Métis names, and incorporating Métis languages. While most parents reported looking for child health information online, they also stressed the need to provide multiple options, including information sheets, recognizing that parents seek information in different contexts. Parents also emphasized the importance of accessible, safe spaces to find child health information, including local schools, community centres, healthcare organizations and the MMF.

Conclusion

There is a lack of child health information created specifically for Red River Métis families. The development of this information can support their information needs and preferences and the ongoing efforts to revitalize Red River Métis culture and language. Study findings will inform the adaptation and dissemination of existing child health resources to ensure they reflect Red River Métis parents’ information needs and preferences. This research is a critical step in addressing an identified need for Red River Métis families to have culturally relevant and meaningful child health resources, and in the pursuit of equitable care for all children in Canada.

Trial Registration

N/A.
Exploring the subjective experience of rave party participants in Israel who consume psychedelic drugs: a qualitative inquiry
Authors: Milshteyn Yula , Bensimon Moshe
Published: December 2023

Background

Rave music parties (RMP) are a world-wide socio-cultural phenomenon, where people listen to rave music while frequently consuming psychedelic drugs. Epidemiological studies have emphasized the hazardous consequences following the consumption of psychedelic drugs at RMP, and qualitative studies have shown social and psycho-spiritual experiences. Yet, phenomenological inquiry into subjective experiences of attendees is scant. This study aimed to examine physical, emotional, perceptual and social experiences of RMP participants in Israel, and their view on Israel’s policy toward rave events. In addition, the study aimed to contribute useful information for policymakers and society on rave music and psychedelic drugs experiences at RMP.

Method

Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyze transcriptions of semi-structured interviews with 27 individuals attending RMP regularly and consume psychedelic drugs.

Results

Analysis revealed four significant themes: the first theme, the impact of Israel’s drug policy on participants’ sense of safety, relates to participants’ sense of insecurity and anxiety at Israeli RMP due to government drug ban policy. The second theme, the stigma on rave culture, relates to participants’ perception regarding the stigma on rave culture in law enforcement agencies and in society in general. The third theme, negative experiences, describes short-term experiences after consuming psychedelics at RMP, including hallucinations and disorientation. The fourth theme, positive experiences, describes positive sensory, emotional and self/world attitudinal aspects after consuming psychedelics at RMP. Sensory experiences included intensified auditory, visual and tactile experiences; emotional experiences included positive feelings toward others, reduced stress and ability to vent difficult emotions; self/world attitudinal aspects included self-acceptance, higher appreciation of life and connectedness to nature.

Conclusions

The study highlights RMP participants’ sense of insecurity due to Israel’s strict drug policy and absence of harm reduction strategies at rave scenes. The study also notes participants’ experience of stigmatization as drug addicts by society and law enforcement agencies. Reducing police presence and adopting harm reduction policies at rave scenes in Israel may increase participants’ sense of security, reduce stigmatization and decrease overdose risk. Hence, the findings may contribute to new knowledge useful for policymakers and society concerning RMP and the use of psychedelics.
hMG addition affects the change in progesterone level during IVF stimulation and LBR: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wesevich Victoria G. , Seckin Serin I. , Kelk Dawn A. , Kallen Amanda N. , Kodaman Pinar H.
Published: December 2023

Background

Premature progesterone (P) rise during IVF stimulation reduces endometrial receptivity and is associated with lower pregnancy rates following embryo transfer (ET), which can influence provider recommendation for fresh or frozen ET. This study aimed to determine whether change in P level between in IVF baseline and trigger (𝚫P) is predictive of pregnancy outcome following fresh ET, and whether the ratio of gonadotropins influences P rise and, as a result, clinical pregnancy outcomes: clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rates (LBR).

Methods

Retrospective cohort study at a single fertility center at an academic institution. The peak P level and 𝚫P were modeled in relation to prediction of CPR and LBR, and the ratios of hMG:rFSH were also modeled in relation to prediction of peak P level on day of trigger, 𝚫P, and CPR/LBR in a total of 291 patients undergoing fresh embryo transfer after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation-IVF (COH-IVF).

Results

𝚫P correlates with CPR, with the most predictive range for success as 𝚫P 0.7–0.85 ng/mL (p = 0.005, 95% CI 0.635, 3.636; predicting CPR of 88.9%). The optimal range for peak P in regard to pregnancy outcome was 0.15–1.349 ng/mL (p = 0.01; 95% CI for coefficient in model 0.48–3.570). A multivariable logistic model for prediction of CPR and LBR using either peak or 𝚫P supported a stronger association between 𝚫P and CPR/LBR as compared to peak P. Furthermore, an hMG:rFSH ratio of > 0.6 was predictive of lowest peak P (p = 0.010, 95% CI 0.035, 0.256) and smallest 𝚫P (p = 0.012, 95% CI 0.030, 0.243) during COH-IVF cycles. Highest CPRs were observed within hMG:rFSH ratios of 0.3–0.4 [75.6% vs. 62.5% within and outside of the range, respectively, (p = 0.023, 95% CI 0.119, 1.618)]. Highest LBRs were seen within the range of 0.3–0.6 hMG:rFSH, [LBR of 55.4% vs. 41.4% (p = 0.010, 95% CI 0.176, 1.311)].

Conclusions

Our data supports use of 𝚫P to best predict pregnancy rates and therefore can improve clinical decision making as to when fresh ET is most appropriate. Furthermore, we found optimal gonadotropin ratios can be considered to minimize P rise and to optimize CPR/LBR, emphasizing the importance of luteinizing hormone (LH) activity in COH-IVF cycles.
Facts and myths about the use of lithium for bipolar disorder in routine clinical practice: an expert consensus paper
Authors: Fiorillo Andrea , Sampogna Gaia , Albert Umberto , Maina Giuseppe , Perugi Giulio , Pompili Maurizio , Rosso Gianluca , Sani Gabriele , Tortorella Alfonso
Published: December 2023

Background

Bipolar disorder is one of the most burdensome severe mental disorders, characterized by high levels of personal and social disability. Patients often need an integrated pharmacological and non-pharmacological approach. Lithium is one of the most effective treatments available not only in psychiatry, but in the whole medicine, and its clinical efficacy is superior to that of other mood stabilizers. However, a declining trend on lithium prescriptions has been observed worldwide in the last 20 years, supporting the notion that lithium is a ‘forgotten drug’ and highlighting that the majority of patients with bipolar disorder are missing out the best available pharmacological option.

Based on such premises, a narrative review has been carried out on the most common “misconceptions” and “stereotypes” associated with lithium treatment; we also provide a list of “good reasons” for using lithium in ordinary clinical practice to overcome those false myths.

Main text

A narrative search of the available literature has been performed entering the following keywords: “bipolar disorder”, “lithium”, “myth”, “mythology”, “pharmacological treatment”, and “misunderstanding”. The most common false myths have been critically revised and the following statements have been proposed: (1) Lithium should represent the first choice for the treatment of patients with bipolar disorder; (2) lithium treatment is effective in different patients’ groups suffering from bipolar disorder; (3) Drug–drug interaction risk can be easily managed during lithium treatment; (4) The optimal management of lithium treatment includes periodical laboratory tests; (5) Slow-release lithium formulation has advantages compared to immediate release formulation; (6) Lithium treatment has antisuicidal properties; (7) Lithium can be carefully managed during pregnancy.

Conclusions

In recent years, a discrepancy between evidence-based recommendations and clinical practice in using lithium treatment for patients with bipolar disorder has been highlighted.

It is time to disseminate clear and unbiased information on the clinical efficacy, effectiveness, tolerability and easiness to use of lithium treatment in patients with bipolar disorder. It is necessary to reinvigorate the clinical and academic discussion about the efficacy of lithium, to counteract the decreasing prescription trend of one of the most effective drugs available in the whole medicine.
Long non-coding RNA KCNQ10T1/miR-19a-3p/SMAD5 axis promotes osteogenic differentiation of mouse bone mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Lin He , Nie Lanjun , Lu Guiqing , Wu Haixia , Xu Tao
Published: December 2023

Background

Bone fracture is a common orthopedic disease that needs over 3 months to recover. Promoting the osteogenic differentiation of bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) is beneficial for fracture healing. Therefore, this research aimed to study the roles of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) KCNQ10T1 in osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs.

Methods

BMSCs were treated with osteogenic medium and assessed by CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, alizarin red staining (ARS), as well as concentration of osteoblast markers were measured to evaluate osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Western blot was employed to detect proteins; while, qRT-PCR was for mRNA levels. Additionally, targeted relationships between KCNQ10T1 and miR-19a-3p, as well as miR-19a-3p and SMAD5 were verified by dual luciferase reporter gene assay along with RNA pull-down method.

Results

Upregulation of KCNQ10T1 promoted the ALP staining and ARS intensity, increased the cell viability and decreased the apoptosis rate of BMSCs. Besides, KCNQ10T1 overexpression increased the ALP, OPG, OCN and OPN protein levels. KCNQ10T1 sponges miR-19a-3p, which targets Smad5. Upregulated miR-19a-3p reversed the overexpressed KCNQ10T1-induced effects, and depletion of SMAD5 reversed the miR-19a-3p inhibitor-induced effects on osteogenic medium-treated BMSCs.

Conclusions

Upregulation of KCNQ10T1 promoted osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs through miR-19a-3p/SMAD5 axis in bone fracture.
Perioperative peri-implant fracture after osteosynthesis for geriatric femoral pertrochanteric fracture with the linear compression integrated screw intramedullary nail system (INTERTAN™): a retrospective study
Authors: Lai Chih-Yang , Liu Chang-Heng , Lai Po-Ju , Hsu Yung-Heng , Chou Ying-Chao , Yu Yi-Hsun
Published: December 2023

Background

Osteosynthesis for geriatric femoral pertrochanteric fractures using the linear compression integrated screw intramedullary nail system (INTERTAN™) has become popular. Nonetheless, cases of perioperative peri-implant fractures have been reported following this surgical technique. The factors responsible for this complication remain unclear. Therefore, we investigated perioperative peri-implant fracture risk factors and incidence, as well as overall outcomes, using the INTERTAN™ system for geriatric femoral pertrochanteric fractures.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 98 consecutive patients with geriatric femoral pertrochanteric fractures after INTERTAN™ fixation, with at least a 12-month follow-up period between May 2020 and April 2022 at a single medical institute. The patients’ demographic characteristics, fracture pattern, quality of reduction, quality of fixation, nail length, morphology of the femur, and perioperative complications were recorded and analyzed.

Results

Among the 98 patients, 92 achieved union during follow-up. Twelve perioperative peri-implant fractures (12.2%) were recorded, all of which occurred during or within 1 month of osteosynthesis. Except for one patient who underwent re-osteosynthesis, the others underwent nonoperative treatment, and all achieved union. Multiple regression analysis revealed morphology of the femur with low-lesser trochanter width (odds ratio (OR) 0.532, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.33–0.86, p = 0.01) to be the only factor contributing to perioperative peri-implant fractures. When the Youden index was used, the optimal cut-off value was 20.2 mm of low-lesser trochanter width. Low-lesser trochanter width < 20.2 mm was found to be a potential factor causing perioperative peri-implant fractures (OR 17.81, 95% CI 1.67–19.76, p = 0.017).

Conclusions

Morphology of the femur with a low-lesser trochanter width smaller than 20.2 mm was found to be the only potential contributor to perioperative peri-implant fractures when using INTERTAN™ for geriatric femoral pertrochanteric fractures. Care should be taken during osteosynthesis, focusing not only on the fracture site but also on the femoral cortex around the implant. Although perioperative peri-implant fractures were observed within one month following osteosynthesis, the majority of these cases were effectively treated without surgical intervention.
Metabolic engineering of a stable haploid strain derived from lignocellulosic inhibitor tolerant Saccharomyces cerevisiae natural isolate YB-2625
Authors: Hector Ronald E. , Mertens Jeffrey A. , Nichols Nancy N.
Published: December 2023

Background

Significant genetic diversity exists across Saccharomyces strains. Natural isolates and domesticated brewery and industrial strains are typically more robust than laboratory strains when challenged with inhibitory lignocellulosic hydrolysates. These strains also contain genes that are not present in lab strains and likely contribute to their superior inhibitor tolerance. However, many of these strains have poor sporulation efficiencies and low spore viability making subsequent gene analysis, further metabolic engineering, and genomic analyses of the strains challenging. This work aimed to develop an inhibitor tolerant haploid with stable mating type from S. cerevisiae YB-2625, which was originally isolated from bagasse.

Results

Haploid spores isolated from four tetrads from strain YB-2625 were tested for tolerance to furfural and HMF. Due to natural mutations present in the HO-endonuclease, all haploid strains maintained a stable mating type. One of the haploids, YRH1946, did not flocculate and showed enhanced tolerance to furfural and HMF. The tolerant haploid strain was further engineered for xylose fermentation by integration of the genes for xylose metabolism at two separate genomic locations (ho∆ and pho13∆). In fermentations supplemented with inhibitors from acid hydrolyzed corn stover, the engineered haploid strain derived from YB-2625 was able to ferment all of the glucose and 19% of the xylose, whereas the engineered lab strains performed poorly in fermentations.

Conclusions

Understanding the molecular mechanisms of inhibitor tolerance will aid in developing strains with improved growth and fermentation performance using biomass-derived sugars. The inhibitor tolerant, xylose fermenting, haploid strain described in this work has potential to serve as a platform strain for identifying pathways required for inhibitor tolerance, and for metabolic engineering to produce fuels and chemicals from undiluted lignocellulosic hydrolysates.
Prenatal BRCA1 epimutations contribute significantly to triple-negative breast cancer development
Authors: Nikolaienko Oleksii , Eikesdal Hans P. , Ognedal Elisabet , Gilje Bjørnar , Lundgren Steinar , Blix Egil S. , Espelid Helge , Geisler Jürgen , Geisler Stephanie , Janssen Emiel A. M. , Yndestad Synnøve , Minsaas Laura , Leirvaag Beryl , Lillestøl Reidun , Knappskog Stian , Lønning Per E.
Published: December 2023

Background

Normal cell BRCA1 epimutations have been associated with increased risk of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, the fraction of TNBCs that may have BRCA1 epimutations as their underlying cause is unknown. Neither are the time of occurrence and the potential inheritance patterns of BRCA1 epimutations established.

Methods

To address these questions, we analyzed BRCA1 methylation status in breast cancer tissue and matched white blood cells (WBC) from 408 patients with 411 primary breast cancers, including 66 TNBCs, applying a highly sensitive sequencing assay, allowing allele-resolved methylation assessment. Furthermore, to assess the time of origin and the characteristics of normal cell BRCA1 methylation, we analyzed umbilical cord blood of 1260 newborn girls and 200 newborn boys. Finally, we assessed BRCA1 methylation status among 575 mothers and 531 fathers of girls with (n = 102) and without (n = 473) BRCA1 methylation.

Results

We found concordant tumor and mosaic WBC BRCA1 epimutations in 10 out of 66 patients with TNBC and in four out of six patients with estrogen receptor (ER)-low expression (< 10%) tumors (combined: 14 out of 72; 19.4%; 95% CI 11.1–30.5). In contrast, we found concordant WBC and tumor methylation in only three out of 220 patients with 221 ER ≥ 10% tumors and zero out of 114 patients with 116 HER2-positive tumors. Intraindividually, BRCA1 epimutations affected the same allele in normal and tumor cells. Assessing BRCA1 methylation in umbilical WBCs from girls, we found mosaic, predominantly monoallelic BRCA1 epimutations, with qualitative features similar to those in adults, in 113/1260 (9.0%) of individuals, but no correlation to BRCA1 methylation status either in mothers or fathers. A significantly lower fraction of newborn boys carried BRCA1 methylation (9/200; 4.5%) as compared to girls (p = 0.038). Similarly, WBC BRCA1 methylation was found less common among fathers (16/531; 3.0%), as compared to mothers (46/575; 8.0%; p = 0.0003).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest prenatal BRCA1 epimutations might be the underlying cause of around 20% of TNBC and low-ER expression breast cancers. Such constitutional mosaic BRCA1 methylation likely arise through gender-related mechanisms in utero, independent of Mendelian inheritance.