bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What is the point of method sections?
Authors: Butler Nick , Spoelstra Sverre
Published: June 2023

There are plenty of books and articles on research methods, but few discuss the nature and purpose of method sections in academic journals. Based on interviews with critical and interpretivist researchers, this short paper examines the nature and purpose of method sections in management and organization studies. We show how researchers make sense of, and struggle with, positivist expectations about the form and content of method sections. Ultimately, we call for greater openness about what method sections might look like and ask whether all academic articles need method sections.
Co-producing knowledge in action: Reflecting from the Main Bhi Dilli campaign for equitable planning in Delhi
Authors: Lall Ruchika , Mehra Rashee , Narayan Malavika
Published: June 2023

Practices of insurgent or bottom-up planning, of community-based organisations, networks and social movements are understood to be peripheral to the dominant paradigm of planning in southern contexts. Yet there is a lot of knowledge collectively held and coproduced within and through these practices, which are also sites of knowledge production. This paper reflects on the process of coproduction of knowledge within a campaign for equitable urban planning in Delhi – Main Bhi Dilli Campaign. The campaign brings together urban actors with diverse positionalities – informal worker’s and resident’s collectives, researchers and academic actors, social movements, and civil society organisations, across sectors and lived experiences. In this paper we ask: how does co-production of knowledge take place at the scale of the city, and within a campaign with diverse membership and priorities? We reflect on the role of academic actors in such coproduction of knowledge. We draw from the archival material of the campaign produced through prolonged dialogue and practice-based research. We focus on one particular knowledge product that the campaign has produced called the Factsheets. Factsheets are 4-page documents that simply provide an overview of the theme (such as informal livelihood, housing, gender), and what the Master Plan can do to address the gaps in planning that exist. We use the ‘factsheets’ produced through the campaign, as an artefact of co-production, as a site that holds the processes of coproducing knowledge together. We reflect upon the processes of holding, contesting and channeling multiple knowledges within the campaign, highlighting the value of these internal processes for coproduction of knowledge. While the exact format and material may not be translatable in contexts with different social and political realities, we argue that the processes of coproducing knowledge for action while in a diverse coalition are useful across contexts for more equitable urban planning.
Examination of globalisation’s clouts on Ghana’s tertiary education policy
Authors: Boateng Fred Kofi , Abonyi Usman , Intsiful Emmanuel
Published: June 2023

The paper examined and analysed the extent globalisation and its dimensions impinged Ghana’s tertiary education policy landscape in global and national historical and contemporary perspectives. Historical and contemporary policy documents and articles, that help to understand how globalisation and its antecedents have interwoven and permeated the dynamics underpinning Ghana’s tertiary education policy, were used as conduits for the analysis. Within the context of structural adjustment and democratisation juggernauts triggered by the West, neoliberal reforms were initiated in the early 1990s. They were characterised by the liberalisation of the sector for the establishment of private tertiary education institutions, creation of buffer agencies to ensure effective stakeholder control in policy and quality assurance of those institutions, initiating laissez-faire financial reforms and incorporating non-governmental financial responsibility. Nonetheless, they concomitantly spurred the tertiary education institutions to drift towards entrepreneurialism and innovation through activities such as research, fee policies and collaborations with vital stakeholders. Although the reforms were geared towards market, the Ghanaian system of tertiary education remains a quasi-market system with substantial governmental control.
Empowerment Self-Defense Intervention Outcomes: A Descriptive Review of Measures
Authors: Beaujolais Brieanne
Published: June 2023

Global research about empowerment self-defense (ESD)—a sexual assault resistance intervention recommended as a component of a comprehensive sexual assault prevention strategy—continues to emerge, with studies reporting positive effects, including reduced risk of sexual assault victimization. Researchers have suggested ESD may produce additional positive public health outcomes beyond the prevention of sexual violence, but more research is needed to understand the benefits associated with ESD training. However, to conduct high-quality research, scholars have suggested a need for improved measurement tools. To better understand these measurement gaps, the purpose of this study was to identify and review measures used in ESD outcome studies; and in doing so, to determine the range of outcomes previously measured in quantitative studies. Within the 23 articles meeting study inclusion criteria, there were 57 unique scales that measured a range of variables. These 57 measures were grouped into nine construct categories: assault characteristics ( n = 1); attitudes and beliefs ( n = 6); behavior and behavioral intentions ( n = 12); fear ( n = 4); knowledge ( n = 3); mental health ( n = 8); any past unwanted sexual experiences ( n = 7); perception of risk and vulnerability ( n = 5); and self-efficacy ( n = 11). Except for mental health, most scales were developed in the Global North using college student populations, so measures for diverse populations (e.g., diverse in age, culture, ethnicity, geographical origin) are critically needed. Future research should focus on identifying and/or developing standardized tools that measure the full constellation of targeted outcomes. Evaluation of the methodological quality of studies assessing psychometric performance of the tools should also be prioritized.
DOT1L Epigenetically Regulates Autophagy and Mitochondria Fusion in Cell Lines of Renal Cancer
Authors: Hou Yanguang , Liu Jiachen , Huang Shiyu , Wang Lei , Hu Juncheng , Liu Xiuheng
Published: June 2023

Objectives

DOT1L, a histone methylase, is overexpression in renal cell cancer. However, the role and detailed molecular mechanism of DOT1L involved in renal cancer development remain unknown.

Methods

The inhibition of DOT1L was used by SGC0946 and short hairpin RNA silencing. Monodansylcadaverine staining and transmission electron microscope were performed to detect autophagy changes as a result of the inhibition of DOT1L. MitoTracker Red assay was used to analyze mitochondrial morphology. The autophagy markers and mitochondria-related proteins were analyzed by Western blot, qPCR, or immunofluorescence. ChIP assay was performed to demonstrate H3K79me2 is involved in the direct regulation of Farnesoid X receptor transcription.

Results

DOT1L inhibition increased autophagy activity and promoted mito chondria fusion in cell lines of renal cancer. Inhibition of DOT1L upregulated levels of LC3α/β, P62, MFN1, and MFN2, which contributed to autophagy activity or mitochondria fusion. DOT1L knockdown showed a similar the above process. DOT1L inhibition or silencing resulted in AMP-activated protein kinase activation and mammalian target of rapamycin inhibition. Mechanistically, the DOT1L inhibitor and its short hairpin RNAs decreased the expression of Farnesoid X receptor in a histone methylase-dependent manner.

Conclusion

We revealed the essential role of Farnesoid X receptor in regulating DOT1L-induced autophagy and mitochondrial fission through the AMP-activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway in cell lines of renal cancer, which may provide new insights into the pathogenesis of renal cell cancer.
The Life and Career of Mariachi Educator Zeke Castro
Authors: Chappell Elizabeth
Published: June 2023

Mariachi programs entered the public schools in the Southwest in the late 1960s and early 1970s when the Chicano movement ushered in an awakening of pride in Mexican heritage. The purpose of this historical biography was to examine the life and career of mariachi educator Ezekiel (Zeke) Castro (b. 1939). Zeke Castro taught mariachi and orchestra in Texas for more than three decades. He influenced generations of mariachis and was a trailblazer in mariachi instruction within the field of music education. The contribution of mariachi educators to the history of music education is not well-documented and Zeke Castro’s story is significant. The culmination of Zeke’s work contributed to the establishment of several public-school mariachi programs and to mariachi becoming a sanctioned University Interscholastic League event in Texas.
Treatment of Uncomplicated Type B Aortic Dissection: Optimal Medical Therapy vs TEVAR + Optimal Medical Therapy
Authors: Nooromid Michael , Creisher Brandon A. , Abai Babak
Published: June 2023

Optimal Medical Therapy (OMT) has been the accepted mode of treatment for uncomplicated Type B Aortic Dissection (uTBAD). There is growing evidence that despite the short-term benefits of OMT, patients suffer deleterious consequences in the long-term with OMT alone. Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair (TEVAR) along with OMT has emerged as an alternative option for patients with uTBAD. This study evaluates the available literature for TEVAR + OMT as an alternative to OMT for treatment of uTBAD. In addition, issues related to TEVAR as a treatment for uTBAD are discussed.
Supporting Inclusion and Participation for People Living With Dementia: Ethnographic and Participatory Research Methods
Authors: Hogger Lucie , Fudge Nina , Swinglehurst Deborah
Published: June 2023

Dementia researchers have persuasively argued for using flexible and creative methods with people with dementia, to ensure their historically marginalised voices are now heard. This article builds on that work, using examples from a study of medicines practices of people with dementia and their informal carers. We have two aims: firstly, we show the ways in which two methods – linguistic ethnography and diary-interview method – can support the inclusion and participation of people with dementia. Secondly, we examine the methodological insights and the dilemmas created by using these methods. Our focus on supporting all means of communication (verbal, non-verbal, drawing, photography and writing) underpinned our choice of methods, which in turn facilitated inclusion and participation. Using a linguistic ethnographic approach supported participants to use material objects to tell their stories; video-recording interactions encompassed non-verbal communication; creative diary-methods made non-linguistic means of knowledge production possible. Moving around the home and neighbourhood and using familiar objects enabled people with dementia to explain their medicines in the context of their lives. Paying attention to sensory data created new insights into the skills and knowledge that family members develop and employ when they provide informal care. The methods were not without challenges. Participants experienced a tension in balancing opportunities for self-expression with the time and effort involved in participatory activities. For the researcher, prioritising the affective quality of respectful research relationships whilst not straying into ‘faked friendship’ created situated ethical dilemmas.
For Whom (and When) the Time Bell Tolls: Chronotypes and the Synchrony Effect
Authors: May Cynthia P. , Hasher Lynn , Healey Karl
Published: June 2023

Circadian rhythms are powerful timekeepers that drive physiological and intellectual functioning throughout the day. These rhythms vary across individuals, with morning chronotypes rising and peaking early in the day and evening chronotypes showing a later rise in arousal, with peaks in the afternoon or evening. Chronotype also varies with age from childhood to adolescence to old age. As a result of these differences, the time of day at which people are best at attending, learning, solving analytical problems, making complex decisions, and even behaving ethically varies. Across studies of attention and memory and a range of allied areas, including academic achievement, judgment and decision-making, and neuropsychological assessment, optimal outcomes are found when performance times align with peaks in circadian arousal, a finding known as the synchrony effect. The benefits of performing in synchrony with one’s chronotype (and the costs of not doing so) are most robust for individuals with strong morning or evening chronotypes and for tasks that require effortful, analytical processing or the suppression of distracting information. Failure to take the synchrony effect into consideration may be a factor in issues ranging from replication difficulties to school timing to assessing intellectual disabilities and apparent cognitive decline in aging.
Architectural Design Qualities of an Adolescent Psychiatric Hospital to Benefit Patients and Staff
Authors: Norouzi Neda , Martinez Antonio , Rico Zayra
Published: June 2023

Objectives:

This study is focused on how architectural design of adolescent psychiatric hospitals could positively affect not only patients but also staff members working at the hospitals.

Background:

Adolescents between the ages of 12 and 18 are among the young population with the highest percentage of mental illness. However, there are limited number of intentionally designed psychiatric hospitals for adolescents. Staff who work in adolescent psychiatric hospitals may face workplace violence. Studies on environmental impacts suggest that the built environment affects patients’ well-being and safety as well as staff’s satisfaction, working condition, safety, and health. However, there are very few studies that focus on adolescent psychiatric hospitals and the impact of the built environment on both staff and patients.

Methods:

Data were collected through literature analysis and semi-structured interviews with staff of three psychiatric state hospitals with adolescent patient units. The triangulation of multiple data sources informed a set of environmental design conditions that captures the complexity and connectedness of architectural design and the occupants of an adolescent psychiatric hospital.

Results:

The results present architectural composition, atmosphere, lighting, natural environment, safety, and security as indispensable design conditions to create an enclosed and city-like campus that provides a serene, secure, and structured environment that benefit staff and adolescent patients.

Conclusion:

The specific design strategies that need to be incorporated in the architectural design of a safe and secure adolescent psychiatric hospital include an open floor plan that respects patients’ autonomy and offers privacy while always providing staff with full visibility of patients.
Stroke-heart syndrome: A case report and mini literature review
Authors: Henke Katrin , Galimanis Aikaterini , Blaser Isaac , Ziaka Mairi
Published: June 2023

Despite the fact that cardiac troponin (cTn) elevation is commonly seen in the acute phase of ischemic stroke, investigating its etiology represents a challenge for healthcare practitioners. Therefore, we describe the case of an 86-year-old woman with dyspnea and cTn-elevation within the first days following acute ischemic stroke and discuss potential differential diagnoses and diagnostic dilemmas.
Analysis of outcome of prostatic UroLift placement in benign prostatic hyperplasia in a district hospital
Authors: Biswas Krishnendu , Ahmed Saad , Soundararasha Kasthury , Rix Gerald , Pillai Rajiv , Maan Zafar , Keoghane Stephen , Datta Soumendra Nath
Published: June 2023

Aims and Objective:

To analyse the outcome of prostatic UroLift (PUL) placement done at our hospital for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Materials and Methods:

Demographic and perioperative data were collected for all patients who underwent PUL placement for BPH at out hospital from December 2017 to January 2020. International prostate symptom score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), maximum urinary flow rate (Q-max), complications and requirement of auxiliary procedures were noted till date. Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare the pre- and post-operative parameters.

Results:

A total of 45 patients underwent PUL placement and were followed up for a median period of 26 months (range 14–37 months). The median age of the patients and prostate volume were 76 years (range 54–90 years) and 50 mL (range 30–70 mL), respectively. Five patients had median lobe. An average of 3.2 ± 1.1 clips were placed. The mean IPSS, QoL and Q-max in the pre-operative and latest follow-up period were 19.3 ± 5.9 and 11.1 ± 5.6 ( p < 0.001), 4.3 ± 1.1 and 2.5 ± 1.4 ( p < 0.001), 9.8 ± 5.0 mL/s and 12.8 ± 6.2 mL/s ( p = 0.004), respectively. Complications were dysuria (one patient, 2.2%), urinary tract infection (one patient, 2.2%), haematuria (one patient, 2.2%), transient urinary retention (two patients, 4.4%), post-void dribbling (two patients, 4.4%), bladder stone (one patient, 2.2%) and clip migration (one patient 2.2%). Six patients (13.3%) required auxiliary treatment in follow-up.

Conclusion:

PUL placement improved the IPSS, QoL and Q-max significantly over a median follow-up of 26 months with retreatment rate of 13.3%. It is a safe procedure with few easily manageable complications.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable
Resident Physician Education in the Human Trafficking Medical Safe Haven
Authors: Kelly Kiersten , Gibson Matthew , Chambers Ronald
Published: June 2023

INTRODUCTION

Human trafficking is a widespread public health problem across the United States. In recognition of the incredible need among victims and survivors of human trafficking for longitudinal, trauma-informed care, the Medical Safe Haven (MSH) was developed in 2016 through the Dignity Health Family Medicine Residency Program in Sacramento, California, and subsequently expanded to 2 other Dignity Health residency program sites. The MSH program included 3 sessions of trafficking-specific curriculum for resident physicians to prepare them to provide care for MSH patients. The current study aimed to evaluate resident physician learner confidence after participating in the MSH curriculum along with perceptions of the MSH program as a whole upon their graduation.

METHODS

The study was a retrospective, preassessment/postassessment design. Resident physicians completed surveys that assessed learner confidence after each of the 3 training sessions, utilizing Likert scale items. Third-year resident physicians also completed a survey that included scaled and open-ended questions. Paired t-tests were used to evaluate the data in addition to content analysis for the open-ended questions.

RESULTS

There were significant increases in learner confidence after the training sessions on all items measured, including identifying and caring for victims and survivors of trafficking. Third-year residents responded that the MSH program helped them to more effectively communicate and care for victims and survivors and many planned to take the trauma-informed care model to their future practices.

CONCLUSION

While generalizability of the study was limited due to the retrospective design, the MSH program was found to have a meaningful impact on the resident physicians who participated in the training.
Birtamimab plus standard of care in light-chain amyloidosis: the phase 3 randomized placebo-controlled VITAL trial
Authors: Gertz Morie A. , Cohen Adam D. , Comenzo Raymond L. , Kastritis Efstathios , Landau Heather J. , Libby Edward N. , Liedtke Michaela , Sanchorawala Vaishali , Schönland Stefan , Wechalekar Ashutosh , Zonder Jeffrey A. , Palladini Giovanni , Walling Jackie , Guthrie Spencer , Nie Christie , Karp Carol , Jin Yuying , Kinney Gene G. , Merlini Giampaolo
Published: June 2023

Amyloid light-chain (AL) amyloidosis is a rare, typically fatal disease characterized by the accumulation of misfolded immunoglobulin light chains (LCs). Birtamimab is an investigational humanized monoclonal antibody designed to neutralize toxic LC aggregates and deplete insoluble organ-deposited amyloid via macrophage-induced phagocytosis. VITAL was a phase 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial assessing the efficacy and safety of birtamimab + standard of care (SOC) in 260 newly diagnosed, treatment-naive patients with AL amyloidosis. Patients received 24 mg/kg IV birtamimab + SOC or placebo + SOC every 28 days. The primary composite end point was the time to all-cause mortality (ACM) or centrally adjudicated cardiac hospitalization ≥91 days after the first study drug infusion. The trial was terminated early after an interim futility analysis; there was no significant difference in the primary composite end point (hazard ratio [HR], 0.826; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.574-1.189; log-rank P = .303). A post hoc analysis of patients with Mayo stage IV AL amyloidosis, those at the highest risk of early mortality, showed significant improvement in the time to ACM with birtamimab at month 9 (HR, 0.413; 95% CI, 0.191-0.895; log-rank P = .021). At month 9, 74% of patients with Mayo stage IV AL amyloidosis treated with birtamimab and 49% of those given placebo survived. Overall, the rates of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and serious TEAEs were generally similar between treatment arms. A confirmatory phase 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of birtamimab in patients with Mayo stage IV AL amyloidosis (AFFIRM-AL; NCT04973137) is currently enrolling. The VITAL trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02312206.
Safety and efficacy of tafasitamab with or without lenalidomide added to first-line R-CHOP for DLBCL: the phase 1b First-MIND study
Authors: Belada David , Kopeckova Katerina , Bergua Burgues Juan Miguel , Stevens Don , André Marc , Persona Ernesto Perez , Pichler Petra , Staber Philipp B. , Trneny Marek , Duell Johannes , Waldron-Lynch Maeve , Wagner Steve , Mukhopadhyay Amitava , Dirnberger-Hertweck Maren , Burke John M. , Nowakowski Grzegorz S.
Published: June 2023

Anti-CD19 immunotherapy tafasitamab is used in combination with lenalidomide in patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant. Open-label, phase 1b, First-MIND study assessed safety and preliminary efficacy of tafasitamab + R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) ± lenalidomide as first-line therapy in patients with DLBCL. From December 2019 to August 2020, 83 adults with untreated DLBCL (International Prognostic Index 2-5) were screened and 66 were randomly assigned (33 per arm) to R-CHOP-tafasitamab (arm T) or R-CHOP-tafasitamab-lenalidomide (arm T/L) for 6 cycles. Primary end point was safety; secondary end points included end-of-treatment (EoT) overall response rate (ORR) and complete response (CR) rate. All patients had ≥1 treatment-emergent adverse event, mostly grade 1 or 2. Grade ≥3 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia occurred, respectively, in 57.6% and 12.1% (arm T) and 84.8% and 36.4% (arm T/L) of patients. Nonhematologic toxicities occurred at similar rates among arms. R-CHOP mean relative dose intensity was ≥89% in both arms. EoT ORR was 75.8% (CR 72.7%) in arm T and 81.8% (CR 66.7%) in arm T/L; best ORR across visits was 90.0% and 93.9%. Eighteen-month duration of response and of CR rates were 72.7% and 74.5% (arm T) and 78.7% and 86.5% (arm T/L); 24-month progression-free and overall survival rates were 72.7% and 90.3% (arm T) and 76.8% and 93.8% (arm T/L). Manageable safety and promising signals of efficacy were observed in both arms. Potential benefit of adding tafasitamab + lenalidomide to R-CHOP is being investigated in phase 3 frontMIND (NCT04824092). This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT04134936.
Pre-copulatory choices drive post-copulatory decisions: mechanisms of female control shift across different life stages
Authors: Sentenská Lenka , Scott Catherine E. , Baruffaldi Luciana , Andrade Maydianne C. B.
Published: June 2023

Background

The ‘wallflower’ hypothesis proposes females mate indiscriminately to avoid reproductive delays. Post-copulatory mechanisms may then allow ‘trading up’, favouring paternity of future mates. We tested links between pre- and post-copulatory choice in Latrodectus geometricus female spiders paired sequentially with two males. These females copulate as adults or as subadults and store sperm in paired spermathecae. Choosy adults have a higher risk of delays to reproduction than subadults.

Results

We predicted low pre-copulatory, but high post-copulatory choice at first matings for adults and the opposite for subadults. At second matings, we expected all females would prefer males superior to their first. We found all females mated indiscriminately at their first pairing, but in contrast to subadults, adults usually allowed only a single insertion (leaving one of their paired spermatheca empty); a mechanism of post-copulatory choosiness. Adult-mated females were more likely to remate than subadult-mated females when they became adults, showing a preference for larger males, while subadult-mated females tended to prefer males of greater size-corrected mass.

Conclusions

Our results show that the ‘wallflower’ effect and ‘trading up’ tactics can be utilized at different life stages, allowing females to employ choice even if rejecting males is costly.
Coronary embolism due to probable clinical bioprosthetic aortic valve thrombosis: a case report
Authors: Ananda Roshan A , Zhang Zhihua
Published: June 2023

Background

Coronary embolism is a relatively rare but important non-atherosclerotic cause of acute coronary syndrome, mainly caused by atrial fibrillation and mechanical heart valve thrombosis due to subtherapeutic anticoagulation. There have been increasing reports of bioprosthetic valve thrombosis (BPVT), but thromboembolic events are rare and mainly affect the cerebrovascular system. Coronary embolism is an extremely rare complication of BPVT.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old male presented with non-ST-Elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) to an Australian regional health service. Three years ago, he had undergone Bentall procedure with bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement for severe aortic regurgitation and significant aortic root dilatation. Diagnostic coronary angiography revealed embolic occlusion of first diagonal branch in the absence of underlying atherosclerosis. Prior to NSTEMI presentation, the patient was clinically asymptomatic apart from the progressive increase in transaortic mean pressure gradient on transthoracic echocardiography which was first detected seven months after surgical aortic valve replacement. Transoesophageal echocardiography showed restrictions of the aortic leaflet opening but no evidence of mass or vegetation. After eight weeks of warfarin therapy, the raised aortic valve gradient returned to normal. Lifelong warfarin was prescribed, and patient remained clinically well at 39-month follow-up.

Conclusion

We experienced a case of coronary embolism in a patient with probable BPVT. Reversible bioprosthetic valve hemodynamic deterioration after anticoagulation strongly supports the diagnosis in the absence of histopathology. Early moderate-to-severe hemodynamic valve deterioration warrants further investigations, including cardiac computed tomography and sequential echocardiography, to investigate for probable BPVT and consideration of timely anticoagulation initiation to prevent thromboembolic events.
Primary care physicians' perspectives and challenges on managing multimorbidity for patients with dementia: a Japan–Michigan qualitative comparative study
Authors: Tsunawaki Shinji , Abe Michiko , DeJonckheere Melissa , Cigolle Christine T. , Philips Kristin K. , Rubinstein Ellen B. , Matsuda Masakazu , Fetters Michael D. , Inoue Machiko
Published: June 2023

Background

Multimorbidity management can be extremely challenging in patients with dementia. This study aimed to elucidate the approaches of primary care physicians in Japan and the United States (US) in managing multimorbidity for patients with dementia and discuss the challenges involved.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted through one-on-one semi-structured interviews among primary care physicians, 24 each from Japan and Michigan, US. Thematic and content analyses were performed to explore similarities and differences among each country’s data.

Results

Primary care physicians in Japan and Michigan applied a relaxed adherence to the guidelines for patients’ chronic conditions. Common challenges were the suboptimal consultation time, the insufficient number or ability of care-coordinating professionals, patients’ conditions such as difficulties with self-management, living alone, behavioral issues, and refusal of care support. Unique challenges in Japan were free-access medical systems and not being sure about the patients’ will in end-of-life care. In Michigan, physicians faced challenges in distance and lack of transportation between clinics and patients’ homes and in cases where patients lacked the financial ability to acquire good care.

Conclusions

To improve the quality of care for patients with multimorbidity and dementia, physicians would benefit from optimal time and compensation allocated for this patient group, guidelines for chronic conditions to include information regarding changing priority for older adults with dementia, and the close collaboration of medical and social care and community resources with support of skilled care-coordinating professionals.
Clinical features of COVID-19 among patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis in the context of high vaccination coverage during the omicron surge period: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Beck Nam-Seon , Song Soomin , Park Taesung , Hong So-Hyeon , Jeong-Eun Jang , Kim Kyoung-Hwan , Im Joung-Il , Hong Sae-Yong
Published: June 2023

Background

We determined the clinical presentation and outcomes of the Omicron variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in hemodialysis patients and identified the risk factors for severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and mortality in the context of high vaccination coverage.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study involving hemodialysis patients who were vaccinated against COVID-19 during March–September 2022, when the Omicron variant was predominant, and the COVID-19 vaccination rate was high. The proportion of people with severe COVID-19 or mortality was evaluated using univariate logistic regression.

Results

Eighty-three (78.3%) patients had asymptomatic/mild symptoms, 10 (9.4%) had moderate symptoms, and 13 (12.3%) had severe symptoms. Six (5.7%) patients required intensive care admission, two (1.9%) required mechanical ventilation, and one (0.9%) was kept on high-flow nasal cannula. Of the five (4.7%) mortality cases, one was directly attributed to COVID-19 and four to pre-existing comorbidities. Risk factors for both severe COVID-19 and mortality were advanced age; number of comorbidities; cardiovascular diseases; increased levels of aspartate transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, blood urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio, brain natriuretic peptide, and red cell distribution; and decreased levels of hematocrit and albumin. Moreover, the number of COVID-19 vaccinations wasa protective factor against both severe disease and mortality.

Conclusions

Clinical features of hemodialysis patients during the Omicron surge with high COVID-19 vaccination coverage were significant for low mortality. The risk features for severe COVID-19 or mortality were similar to those in the pre-Omicron period in the context of low vaccination coverage.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy with modified FOLFOXIRI for locally advanced rectal cancer to transform effectively EMVI and MRF from positive to negative: results of a long-term single center phase 2 clinical trial
Authors: Zhang Wen , Zhou Haitao , Jiang Jun , Zhu Yuelu , Zou Shuangmei , Jiang Liming , Tang Yuan , Liang Jianwei , Sun Yongkun , Jiang Zhichao , Qu Wang , Li Ying , Zhou Aiping
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) remains the standard treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). This phase 2 clinical trial was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant triplet chemotherapy with mFOLFOXIRI (folinic acid, 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan) in LARC.

Patients and methods

The patients with LARC (the lower edge more than 5 cm from the anal verge) received up to 5 cycles of mFOLFOXIRI. MRI was performed to assess the baseline and postchemotherapy TN stage. Radical resection was performed within 4–6 weeks from the last dose of chemotherapy if the tumor shrank or remained stable. Adjuvant chemotherapy with mFOLFOX6 or XELOX was recommended. Postoperative radiation was planned for R1 resection, ypT4b, ypN2 and a positive CRM. The primary endpoint was the pathological complete response (pCR) rate.

Results

From February 2016 to March 2019, 50 patients were enrolled. Forty-eight (96%) were clinically node-positive, 28 (56.5%) with MRF invasion and 39 (78.4%) were EMVI positive. The median cycle of neoadjuvant mFOLFOXIRI chemotherapy was 5 (range,1–5). A total of 46/50 (92%) patients underwent total mesorectal excision (TME) surgery, all with R0 resection. The pCR rate was 4.3% (2/46). Twenty-three of 46 (50%) patients with cN + achieved a pathological node-negative status. The proportions of pathologically positive CRM and EMVI were 2.2% and 34.7%, respectively. Adjuvant radiotherapy was given to 14/46 (30.4%) patients. The most common Grade 3 or > toxicities included neutrocytopenia (50%), leukopenia (14%) and diarrhea (12%) during the neoadjuvant chemotherapy period. Clinically meaningful postoperative complications included pneumonia (n = 1), pelvic infection (n = 1) and anastomotic fistula (n = 1). With a median follow-up time of 51.2 months, local recurrences and distant metastases were confirmed in 3 (6.5%) and 9 (19.6%) of cases, respectively. The 3-year disease free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS)rates were 75.8% and 86.8%.

Conclusion

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy with mFOLFOXIRI yielded a significant down-staging effect and seemed to be effective in eliminating EMVI and transforming the positive MRF to negative in LARC. The survival results are promising. The long-term follow-up showed promising DFS and OS rates accompanied by a favorable safety profile.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03443661, 23/02/2018.
The safety and effectiveness of a novel annular keratopigmentation technique; a cross-sectional survey of patients
Authors: Alafaleq Munirah , van Haselen Robert , Ferrari Francis
Published: June 2023

Purpose

We investigated safety aspects and other patient experiences related to a novel Femtosecond Laser Assisted Annular Keratopigmentation technique (FLAAK).

Setting

Espace Nouvelle Vision Clinic in Paris.

Methods

Monocentric, post-operative, cross-sectional survey of patients who returned to the clinic for a color correction after the FLAAK procedure. Whilst waiting for their color retouch, consenting patients completed a questionnaire about their experiences following the FLAAK procedure. Aspects related to side-effects or discomfort as well as patient satisfaction were assessed.

Results

The questionnaire was completed by 42 of 51 patients returning to the clinic for a color retouch (27 females, 15 males; mean age 37.6 years). Pain was experienced by 34 (81%) patients, dry eyes by 32 (76%) patients, glare by 23 (56%) patients, red eyes by 28 (67%) patients, and tingling by 30 (71%) patients; no patient experienced visual halos. All experienced post-operative symptoms were of a transient nature. Symptoms like pain, tingling, glare and red eyes disappear in less than 48 h after surgery in approximately 50% of the cases, and ocular dryness in 22% of cases., The median duration of these symptoms in patients for whom the symptoms were still present after 48 h, is 7 days. Patient satisfaction with the aesthetical result (scale ranging from 0 to 10) was on average 8,1 (SD 1,6).

Conclusion

The FLAAK procedure performed for purely aesthetic purposes appears to be safe and is associated with high patient satisfaction.
The risk of obstructive sleep apnea is highly correlated with depressive symptoms among the Korean adults population: results from the 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Lee Mi-Sun , Lee Hooyeon
Published: June 2023

Objectives

We aimed to examine the association between Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) risk, health behaviors, and depressive symptoms in a representative Korean sample.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from the 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) were analyzed. The sample included 4,352 adults aged 40 years and older. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to examine the association between OSA risk, health behaviors, and depressive symptoms.

Results

In total, 23.1% of the participants reported a high risk of OSA. Of the respondents, 39.8%, 19.0%, 27.2%, and 8.7% reported hypertension, snoring, tiredness, and observed apnea, respectively. The prevalence of moderate-severe depressive symptoms among adults with high-risk OSA was 7.5%. The significant associations between OSA risk and sex with PHQ-9 were shown in univariate linear regression. In the multiple linear regression analysis, the association between high risk of OSA and PHQ-9 showed in total (B = 1.58; P < 0.001), male (B = 1.21; P < 0.001), and female (B = 1.93; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A high risk of OSA was associated with an increased prevalence of depressive symptoms. Monitoring the risk factors of depressive symptoms, including OSA, or unhealthy behaviors may decrease the mental health issues of middle-aged and older adults.
Community Wise—effects and participant perceptions of a community- based -positive health intervention for older inhabitants of low SES neighbourhoods: a mixed-methods approach
Authors: Platzer Feline , Steverink Nardi , Haan Marieke , Vorstman Jiska , de Greef Mathieu , Goedendorp Martine
Published: June 2023

Background

The Community Wise (CW) intervention applies a community-based approach to improve the physical fitness, self-management ability, loneliness, social cohesion, and well-being of older adults living in neighbourhoods characterized by lower socioeconomic status (SES).

Methods

Participants (N = 108) were recruited using several strategies, including door-to-door visits and community key peers. The study was based on a pre-test/post-test design. Outcomes were assessed through mixed methods using questionnaires, performance tests, semi-structured interviews, and focus-group sessions.

Results

Results showed significant improvements on aerobic endurance and shoulder flexibility, but no significant improvements on self-management ability, social cohesion, loneliness, or well-being. Qualitative data analysis did indicate that participants experienced improvements on social connectedness with members of the group, as well as on self-management ability.

Conclusion

The results of the intervention seem to depend on programme fidelity and method of assessment. Adapting the intervention and including more older adults with poor health status could lead to better outcomes in the future. This results of this study should be interpreted in light of the complexity and methodological challenges of conducting a community-based health-promotion intervention for this target group.

Trail registration

Retrospective registration.
A network analysis of subjective well-being in Chinese high school students
Authors: Wang Shiwei , Zhao Siqi , Guo Yan , Huang Chengjing , Zhang Pei , She Lu , Xiang Bing , Zeng Jing , Zhou Feng , Xie Xinyan , Yang Mei
Published: June 2023

Background

The psychological situation of high school students during adolescence is not promising, and the most obvious manifestation is the lack of subjective well-being (SWB). This network analysis presents a model of the interaction and correlation between different items of SWB, identifying the most central items for high school students.

Methods

Through offline and online surveys, 4,378 questionnaires were sent out and finally 4,282 Chinese high school students were available. The response rate was 97.807%. The study used the eLASSO method to estimate the network structure and centrality measures. This algorithm used the EBIC to select the best neighbor factor for each node.

Results

The average age for high school students was 16.320 years old and the average SWB score was 76.680. The distribution of SWB between male and female students was significant different (P < 0.001). S8 (Have you been anxious, worried, or upset) was the node with the highest strength and expected influence. The network structure and centrality remained stable after discarding 75% of the sample at random. Except for S15 (How concerned or worried about your health have you been), all nodes were positively correlated with each other (P < 0.01). The network structure of SWB was similar for female and male students (network strength: 8.482 for male participants; 8.323 for female participants; P = 0.159), as well as for rural and urban students (network strength: 8.500 for rural students; 8.315 for urban students; P = 0.140).

Conclusion

Targeting S8 (Have you been anxious, worried, or upset) as a potential intervention target may increase high school students’ SWB effectively.
School closures and well-being-related topic searches on Google during the COVID-19 pandemic in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Anaduaka Uchechi Shirley , Oladosu Ayomide Oluwaseyi
Published: June 2023

Background

Following the outbreak of the 2020 coronavirus, governments adopted non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to save lives. The NPIs have been deemed to have unintended consequences on mental health and well-being. This study aimed to estimate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic-induced school closures on the relative search volumes (RSVs) of well-being-relevant topics in 30 low and lower- middle income countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

Google Trends search data, difference-in-differences and event study methods were used to evaluate the impact on the related search volume (RSV) of well-being related topic queries in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Results

The results suggest positive and significant increases in the search intensity for anger, boredom, fear, sleep, exercise, and prayer. Contrary to other studies, we find no discernible effects on the relative search volumes (RSVs) on loneliness, sadness, and suicide.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the pandemic and the associated restrictions had a mixed effect on well-being-related searches. We recommend increased vigilance and proactive communication from the government and policy makers with the general population in times of emergencies when social policies that restrict lives and liberties need to be adopted.
Association of Ureaplasma infection pattern and azithromycin treatment effect with bronchopulmonary dysplasia in Ureaplasma positive infants: a cohort study
Authors: Chen Xueyu , Huang Xuemei , Lin Yanqing , Lin Bingchun , Yang Chunyu , Huang Zhifeng , Yang Chuanzhong
Published: June 2023

Background

It is unclear whether Ureaplasma-associated pneumonia and azithromycin treatment affect the risk for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants who tested positive for Ureaplasma within 72 h after birth in a tertiary unit. Chest X-ray (CXR) and laboratory test were performed before and after azithromycin treatment. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent association between BPD and Ureaplasma-associated pneumonia, as well as BPD and effective azithromycin treatment.

Results

A total of 118 infants were included in the current study, of whom 36 developed BPD (defined as supplemental oxygen needed at postmenstrual age 36 weeks or discharge). The rate of BPD was significantly higher in infants with Ureaplasma-associated pneumonia (44.6%) compared to infants with Ureaplasma colonization (17.7%, P = 0.002). After adjusting for confounders, an effective azithromycin treatment was significantly associated with reduced risk of BPD [odd ratio (OR) 0.011; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.000–0.250), whereas Ureaplasma-associated pneumonia was not significantly associated with BPD (OR 1.835; 95% CI: 0.548–6.147).

Conclusion

Effective Azithromycin treatment in Ureaplasma positive VLBW infants was associated with a reduced risk of BPD.
Predicting post-laminoplasty kyphosis in cervical spondylotic myelopathy patients without preoperative kyphosis: a retrospective study
Authors: Yang Yiyuan , Qu Ruomu , Liu Zexiang , Chen Zhuo , Wu Yunxia , Chu Hongling , Liu Zhongjun , Liu Xiaoguang , Jiang Liang
Published: June 2023

Background

This study aimed to determine potential risk factors for post-laminoplasty kyphosis and the effect of postoperative kyphosis on neurologic function recovery.

Methods

A total of 266 patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) underwent traditional cervical laminoplasty with a minimum of a 12-month follow-up period. The patients were divided into non-kyphosis (NK group) and kyphosis (K group) groups based on the postoperative C2-7 Cobb angle. Clinical and radiological measurements were collected preoperatively and at the final follow-up.

Results

Of the 266 patients, 26 (9.77%) developed postoperative kyphosis at the final follow-up. The postoperative Japanese Orthopedic Association score did not differ significantly between the NK and K groups (P > 0.05). The postoperative numeric rating scale (NRS) also showed no significant difference between the NK and K groups; however, postoperative NRS improved better than the preoperative values in the NK group (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that the preoperative C2-7 extension Cobb angle and C2-7 Cobb angle were independent predictors of post-laminoplasty kyphosis. Cut-off values for predicting postoperative kyphosis were a C2-7 extension Cobb angle of 18.00° and a C2-7 Cobb angle of 9.30°.

Conclusions

Low preoperative C2-7 extension Cobb angle and C2-7 Cobb angle may be associated with post-laminoplasty kyphosis in CSM patients without preoperative kyphosis. The cut-off value of the C2-7 extension Cobb angle and C2-7 Cobb angle were 18.00° and 9.30°, respectively.