bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Becoming’ a global leader: China’s evolving official media discourse in Xi’s New Era
Authors: Zhang Xiaoling , Shaw Gareth
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates the discourses on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) from China Global Television Network’s YouTube channel. As China’s key diplomatic initiative, the BRI discourses provide us rich resources to understand how China wants the international community to see it, and how it intends to lead the world. The paper finds that China has developed a much clearer vision and more consistent discourse on the world order and its role in it. However, our data produces no evidence to support the claim that China wants to take over the existing global order. Rather, China seeks legitimacy to share global leadership.
Incidental right renal agenesis in a 23-year-old patient: A case report
Authors: Kyejo Willbroad , Mohamed Fatma , Zahran Fatma , Saudin Sumayyah , Ngowi Antony , Anselm Juvenalius , Matillya Nancy , Gachocha Gloria
Published: November 2023

Renal agenesis refers to the congenital absence or complete failure of development of one or both kidneys. It occurs when the kidneys fail to form during embryonic development. This case report describes the presentation of a 23-year-old male patient who experienced sporadic episodes of abdominal pain on the right side and occasional episodes of hematuria. Diagnostic investigations, including ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging scans, confirmed the diagnosis of right renal agenesis. The management of the patient in this case report involved close monitoring of renal function and regular follow-up visits. Initially, the patient was followed for a period of 3 months and based on the patient’s clinical status and any associated risk factors, it was determined that a follow-up schedule of visits every 6 months is appropriate. This interval allows for ongoing assessment of renal function and facilitates early detection of any potential complications or changes in kidney health. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis, comprehensive management, and long-term monitoring in individuals with renal agenesis.
The Mediating Effects of Anxiety and Happiness and the Moderating Effect of Social Network Services for Employee Silence and Psychological Withdrawal Behavior
Authors: Dong Xue Tong , Chung Yang Woon , Yun Jeong Kwon
Published: November 2023

Employees not being able to express their thoughts and opinions about work has been argued to result in detrimental organizational outcomes. Employee silence has recently become a prevalent organizational issue but studies that have explored proximal and distal outcomes of silence are scarce. Therefore, the study explored anxiety and happiness as mediating mechanisms for the relationship between silence and psychological withdrawal and the moderating effect of social network services usage for the relationship between silence and the mediators. The study conducted a two-wave self-reported questionnaire and sampled 257 full-time employees. Anxiety and happiness were found to mediate the relationship and social network services moderated the relationships between silence with the mediators. Moreover, supplementary analysis found mediated moderation for the study.
Assessment of Nursing Practice Environment in Primary Healthcare Centers in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Abdulla Almadani Noura
Published: November 2023

A work environment that boosts nurses’ leadership skills, has adequate resources and staff and collegial nurse–physician relations, and allows nurses to participate in decision-making enhances patient care quality and nurses’ job satisfaction and performance. I used a cross-sectional design and the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index among 519 nurses to assess the nursing practice environment in primary healthcare centers (PHCs) across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Respondents’ views varied, and the general mean (2.45) showed that most nurses thought their work environment has a fair number of staff and resources. The general standard deviation (0.924) indicated that a significant variation exists between the composite score values, and there were no significant differences in the other factors. It was concluded that most PHCs have poor staff and resource adequacy, which shows the significant influence of nurses’ job satisfaction and performance on the quality of their work environment.
GAMT Deficiency Among Pediatric Population: Clinical and Molecular Characteristics and Management
Authors: Almaghrabi Majdah A. , Muthaffar Osama Y. , Alahmadi Sereen A. , Abdulsbhan Mashael A. , Bamusa Mashael , Aljezani Maram Ahmed , Bahowarth Sarah Y. , Alyazidi Anas S. , Aggad Waheeb S.
Published: November 2023

Objective: Analyze the treatment modalities used in real practice by synthesizing available literature. Methods: We reviewed and evaluated 52 cases of GAMT deficiency including 4 novel cases from Saudi Arabia diagnosed using whole-exome sequencing. All data utilized graphical presentation in the form of line charts and illustrated graphs. Results: The mean current age of was 117 months (±29.03) (range 12-372 months). The mean age of disease onset was 28.32 months (±13.68) (range 8 days – 252 months). The most prevalent symptom was developmental delays, mainly speech and motor, seizures, and intellectual disability. The male-to-female ratio was 3:1. Multiple treatments were used, with 54 pharmacological interventions, valproic acid being the most common. Creatinine monohydrate was the prevalent dietary intervention, with 25 patients reporting an improvement. Conclusion: The study suggests that efficient treatment with appropriate dietary intervention can improve patients’ health, stressing that personalized treatment programs are essential in managing this disorder.
Transformational Leadership and Constructive Deviance: Mediating Effects of Perceived Organisational Support and Knowledge Sharing
Authors: Sharma Naman
Published: November 2023

This study examines the influence of transformational leadership on constructive deviance (CD) by examining two potential mediating variables: perceived organisational support (POS) and knowledge-sharing behaviour. The findings provide vital empirical evidence supporting a strong positive impact on CD in employees. The mediatory effect of POS and knowledge-sharing behaviour on the relationship between transformational leaders and CD has also been empirically substantiated by the study. Moreover, the study sheds light on sequential mediation of the POS, knowledge sharing and POS behaviours translating transformational leader–employee interactions into CD. Some of the implications of the study suggestsfocussing on transformational leaders to promote positive behaviours among workforce and encouraging knowledge sharing to increase CD at work. The study will offer valuable insights for organisations seeking to promote positive deviant behaviours and create a supportive and innovative work environment.
ERS technical standard: Global Lung Function Initiative reference values for exhaled nitric oxide fraction (FENO50)
Authors: Högman Marieann , Bowerman Cole , Chavez Luis , Dressel Holger , Malinovschi Andrei , Radtke Thomas , Stanojevic Sanja , Steenbruggen Irene , Turner Steve , Dinh-Xuan Anh Tuan
Published: November 2023

Background

Elevated exhaled nitric oxide fraction at a flow rate of 50 mL·s−1(FENO50) is an important indicator of T-helper 2-driven airway inflammation and may aid clinicians in the diagnosis and monitoring of asthma. This study aimed to derive Global Lung Function Initiative reference equations and the upper limit of normal forFENO50.

Methods

Available individualFENO50data were collated and harmonised using consensus-derived variables and definitions. Data collected from individuals who met the harmonised definition of “healthy” were analysed using the generalised additive models of location, scale and shape (GAMLSS) technique.

Results

Data were retrospectively collated from 34 782 individuals from 34 sites in 15 countries, of whom 8022 met the definition of healthy (19 sites, 11 countries). Overall, height, age and sex only explained 12% of the between-subject variability ofFENO50(R2=0.12).FENOdevice was neccessary as a predictor ofFENO50, such that the healthy range of values and the upper limit of normal varied depending on which device was used. The range ofFENO50values observed in healthy individuals was also very wide, and the heterogeneity was partially explained by the device used. When analysing a subset of data in whichFENO50was measured using the same device and a stricter definition of health (n=1027), between-site heterogeneity remained.

Conclusion

AvailableFENO50data collected from different sites using different protocols and devices were too variable to develop a single all-age reference equation. Further standardisation ofFENOdevices and measurement are required before population reference values might be derived.
PRANA: an R package for differential co-expression network analysis with the presence of additional covariates
Authors: Ahn Seungjun , Datta Somnath
Published: November 2023

Background

Advances in sequencing technology and cost reduction have enabled an emergence of various statistical methods used in RNA-sequencing data, including the differential co-expression network analysis (or differential network analysis). A key benefit of this method is that it takes into consideration the interactions between or among genes and do not require an established knowledge in biological pathways. As of now, none of existing softwares can incorporate covariates that should be adjusted if they are confounding factors while performing the differential network analysis.

Results

We develop an package which a user can easily include multiple covariates. The main function in this package leverages a novel pseudo-value regression approach for a differential network analysis in RNA-sequencing data. This software is also enclosed with complementary functions for extracting adjusted p-values and coefficient estimates of all or specific variable for each gene, as well as for identifying the names of genes that are differentially connected (DC, hereafter) between subjects under biologically different conditions from the output.

Conclusion

Herewith, we demonstrate the application of this package in a real data on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. is available through the CRAN repositories under the GPL-3 license: https://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/PRANA/index.html.
Host-microbiota-parasite interactions in two wild sparid fish species, Diplodus annularis and Oblada melanura (Teleostei, Sparidae) over a year: a pilot study
Authors: Scheifler Mathilde , Magnanou Elodie , Sanchez-Brosseau Sophie , Desdevises Yves
Published: November 2023

Background

The microbiota in fish external mucus is mainly known for having a role in homeostasis and protection against pathogens, but recent evidence suggests it is also involved in the host-specificity of some ectoparasites. In this study, we investigated the influence of seasonality and environmental factors on both fish external microbiota and monogenean gill ectoparasites abundance and diversity and assessed the level of covariations between monogenean and bacterial communities across seasons. To do so, we assessed skin and gill microbiota of two sparid species, Oblada melanura and Diplodus annularis, over a year and collected their specific monogenean ectoparasites belonging to the Lamellodiscus genus.

Results

Our results revealed that diversity and structure of skin and gill mucus microbiota were strongly affected by seasonality, mainly by the variations of temperature, with specific fish-associated bacterial taxa for each season. The diversity and abundance of parasites were also influenced by seasonality, with the abundance of some Lamellodiscus species significantly correlated to temperature. Numerous positive and negative correlations between the abundance of given bacterial genera and Lamellodiscus species were observed throughout the year, suggesting their differential interaction across seasons.

Conclusions

The present study is one of the first to demonstrate the influence of seasonality and related abiotic factors on fish external microbiota over a year. We further identified potential interactions between gill microbiota and parasite occurrence in wild fish populations, improving current knowledge and understanding of the establishment of host-specificity.
CsBPC2 is essential for cucumber survival under cold stress
Authors: Meng Di , Li Shuzhen , Feng Xiaojie , Di Qinghua , Zhou Mengdi , Yu Xianchang , He Chaoxing , Yan Yan , Wang Jun , Sun Mintao , Li Yansu
Published: November 2023

Cold stress affects the growth and development of cucumbers. Whether the BPC2 transcription factor participates in cold tolerance and its regulatory mechanism in plants have not been reported. Here, we used wild-type (WT) cucumber seedlings and two mutant Csbpc2 lines as materials. The underlying mechanisms were studied by determining the phenotype, physiological and biochemical indicators, and transcriptome after cold stress. The results showed that CsBPC2 knockout reduced cucumber cold tolerance by increasing the chilling injury index, relative electrical conductivity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content and decreasing antioxidant enzyme activity. We then conducted RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to explore transcript-level changes in Csbpc2 mutants. A large number of differentially expressed genes (1032) were identified and found to be unique in Csbpc2 mutants. However, only 489 down-regulated genes related to the synthesis and transport of amino acids and vitamins were found to be enriched through GO analysis. Moreover, both RNA-seq and qPT-PCR techniques revealed that CsBPC2 knockout also decreased the expression of some key cold-responsive genes, such as CsICE1, CsCOR413IM2, CsBZR1 and CsBZR2. These results strongly suggested that CsBPC2 knockout not only affected cold function genes but also decreased the levels of some key metabolites under cold stress. In conclusion, this study reveals for the first time that CsBPC2 is essential for cold tolerance in cucumber and provides a reference for research on the biological function of BPC2 in other plants.
Prognostic value of albumin to fibrinogen ratio for mortality in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Li Liying , Ban Chao , Ruan Haiyan , Zhang Muxin , Wang Ziqiong , Ma Min , Zheng Yi , He Sen
Published: November 2023

Background

Albumin to fibrinogen ratio (AFR), a new inflammatory marker, has emerged as a useful indicator to predict adverse outcomes for several diseases. However, whether AFR could be a new useful indicator to predict mortality in HCM patients remains to be evaluated. The study explored the predictive value of AFR for HCM-related death in adult HCM patients.

Methods

A total of 404 HCM patients were eventually enrolled in the study according to the inclusion criteria. Patients were divided into two groups based on the median of baseline AFR. The association between AFR and HCM-related death was analyzed.

Results

During a median follow-up of 4.75 years, HCM-related death was observed in 45 patients (11.1%). The incidence of HCM-related death was significantly higher in the low AFR group (log-rank p < 0.001). With the high AFR group as reference, the unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) for HCM-related death was 2.97 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.53–5.75, p = 0.001) in the low AFR group, and after adjusting for potentially confounding variables, the adjusted HR for low AFR group was 3.15 (95% CI: 1.56–6.37, p = 0.001). No significant interactions between AFR and other variables were observed in subgroup analysis. Sensitivity analyses in patients with normal albumin and fibrinogen showed similar results.

Conclusion

AFR is an independent prognostic factor for HCM-related death, adult HCM patients with a lower AFR have a higher risk of HCM-related death.
An effective prediction model based on XGBoost for the 12-month recurrence of AF patients after RFA
Authors: Sun ShiKun , Wang Li , Lin Jia , Sun YouFen , Ma ChangSheng
Published: November 2023

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder that can lead to complications such as stroke and heart failure. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure used to treat AF, but it is not always successful in maintaining a normal heart rhythm. This study aimed to construct a clinical prediction model based on extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) for AF recurrence 12 months after ablation.

Methods

The 27-dimensional data of 359 patients with AF undergoing RFA in the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from October 2018 to November 2021 were retrospectively analysed. We adopted the logistic regression, support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF) and XGBoost methods to conduct the experiment. To evaluate the performance of the prediction, we used the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), the area under the precision-recall curve (AP), and calibration curves of both the training and testing sets. Finally, Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) were utilized to explain the significance of the variables.

Results

Of the 27-dimensional variables, ejection fraction (EF) of the left atrial appendage (LAA), N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), global peak longitudinal strain of the LAA (LAAGPLS), left atrial diameter (LAD), diabetes mellitus (DM) history, and female sex had a significant role in the predictive model. The experimental results demonstrated that XGBoost exhibited the best performance among these methods, and the accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, precision and F1 score (a measure of test accuracy) of XGBoost were 86.1%, 89.7%, 71.4%, 62.5% and 0.67, respectively. In addition, SHAP analysis also proved that the 6 parameters were decisive for the effect of the XGBoost-based prediction model.

Conclusions

We proposed an effective model based on XGBoost that can be used to predict the recurrence of AF patients after RFA. This prediction result can guide treatment decisions and help to optimize the management of AF.
Comparison of SARIMA model, Holt-winters model and ETS model in predicting the incidence of foodborne disease
Authors: Xian Xiaobing , Wang Liang , Wu Xiaohua , Tang Xiaoqing , Zhai Xingpeng , Yu Rong , Qu Linhan , Ye Mengliang
Published: November 2023

Background

According to the World Health Organization, foodborne disease is a significant public health issue. We will choose the best model to predict foodborne disease by comparison, to provide evidence for government policies to prevent foodborne illness.

Methods

The foodborne disease monthly incidence data from June 2017 to April 2022 were obtained from the Chongqing Nan’an District Center for Disease Prevention and Control. Data from June 2017 to June 2021 were used to train the model, and the last 10 months of incidence were used for prediction and validation The incidence was fitted using the seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) model, Holt-Winters model and Exponential Smoothing (ETS) model. Besides, we used MSE, MAE, RMSE to determine which model fits better.

Results

During June 2017 to April 2022, the incidence of foodborne disease showed seasonal changes, the months with the highest incidence are June to November. The optimal model of SARIMA is SARIMA (1,0,0) (1,1,0)12. The MSE, MAE, RMSE of the Holt-Winters model are 8.78, 2.33 and 2.96 respectively, which less than those of the SARIMA and ETS model, and its prediction curve is closer to the true value. The optimal model has good predictive performance.

Conclusion

Based on the results, Holt-Winters model produces better prediction accuracy of the model.
Non-adherence to ivermectin in onchocerciasis-endemic communities with persistent infection in the Bono Region of Ghana: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Otabil Kenneth Bentum , Basáñez María-Gloria , Ankrah Blessing , Bart-Plange Emmanuel John , Babae Theophilus Nti , Kudzordzi Prince-Charles , Darko Vera Achiaa , Raji Abdul Sakibu , Datsa Lydia , Boakye Andrews Agyapong , Yeboah Michael Tawiah , Fodjo Joseph Nelson Siewe , Schallig Henk D. F. H. , Colebunders Robert
Published: November 2023

Background

The World Health Organization has proposed that onchocerciasis elimination (interruption) of transmission be verified in 12 (approximately a third) endemic countries by 2030. The strategy to reach this goal is based on ivermectin Mass Drug Administration (MDA) with high geographical and therapeutic coverage. In addition to coverage, high levels of treatment adherence are paramount. We investigated factors associated with ivermectin intake in an area of Ghana with persistent Onchocerca volvulus infection.

Methods

In August 2021, a cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted in 13 onchocerciasis-endemic communities in the Bono Region of Ghana. Individuals aged ≥ 10 years were invited to participate in a questionnaire survey. A total of 48 focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with 10 community drug distributors and 13 community leaders were conducted.

Results

A total of 510 people participated in the study [median age: 32, interquartile range 30 (20‒50) years]; 274 (53.7%) were females. Of the total, 320 (62.7%) declared that they adhered to each treatment round and 190 (37.3%) admitted they had not taken ivermectin during at least one MDA round, since becoming eligible for treatment. Of 483 participants with complete information, 139 (28.8%) did not take ivermectin during the last round (March 2021), and 24 (5.0%) had never taken ivermectin (systematic non-adherers). Reasons for not taking ivermectin included previous experience/fear of side-effects, being absent during MDA, pregnancy, the desire to drink alcohol, and drug distribution challenges. Being male, having good knowledge and perception of the disease, and not having secondary or higher level of formal education were significantly associated with higher odds of ivermectin intake.

Conclusions

A relatively high level of non-adherence to ivermectin treatment was documented. There is a need for targeted educational and behavioural change campaigns to reverse these trends and ensure a steady course toward meeting onchocerciasis elimination targets in Ghana.
Distribution of Plasmodium falciparum K13 gene polymorphisms across transmission settings in Ghana
Authors: Dieng Cheikh Cambel , Morrison Victoria , Donu Dickson , Cui Liwang , Amoah Linda , Afrane Yaw , Lo Eugenia
Published: November 2023

Malaria is a significant global health concern, with a majority of cases in Sub-Saharan African nations. Numerous antimalarial drugs have been developed to counter the rampant prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) has served as the primary treatment of uncomplicated malaria in Ghana since 2005. However, a growing concern has emerged due to the escalating reports of ACT resistance, particularly in Southeast Asia, and its encroachment into Africa. Specifically, mutations in the Kelch propeller domain on chromosome 13 (Pfk13) have been linked to ACT resistance. Yet, our understanding of mutation prevalence in Africa remains largely uncharted. In this study, we compared Pfk13 sequences obtained from 172 P. falciparum samples across three ecological and transmission zones in Ghana. We identified 27 non-synonymous mutations among these sequences, of which two of the mutations, C580Y (found in two samples from the central region) and Y493H (found in one sample from the north), had previously been validated for their association with artemisinin resistance, a phenomenon widespread in Southeast Asia. The Pfk13 gene diversity was most pronounced in the northern savannah than the central forest and south coastal regions, where transmission rates are lower. The observed mutations were not significantly associated with geographical regions, suggesting a frequent spread of mutations across the country. The ongoing global surveillance of artemisinin resistance remains pivotal, and our findings provides insights into the potential spread of resistant parasites in West Africa. Furthermore, the identification of novel codon mutations in this study raises their potential association to ACT resistance, warranting further investigation through in vitro assays to ascertain their functional significance.
Study on maintenance of eyeball morphology by foldable capsular vitreous body in severe ocular trauma
Authors: Li Shanyu , Wang Xiaoxuan , Dou Zhixia , Zhang Jie , Jia Jinchen
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To explore the feasibility and safety of using a foldable capsular vitreous body (FCVB) in managing severe ocular trauma and silicone oil-dependent eyes.

Methodology

This is a retrospective study of 61 ocular trauma patients (61 eyes) who presented to the Department of Eye Emergency, Hebei Eye Hospital from May 1, 2018, to May 31, 2019, including 51 male patients (51 eyes) and 10 female patients (10 eyes) with an average age of 44.98 ± 14.60 years old. The oldest patient was 75 years old, and the youngest was 8 years old. These cases represented 51 eyes with severe eyeball rupture and 10 eyes with severe, complicated ocular trauma, which became silicone oil-dependent after the operation. These patients received FCVB implants, and data regarding their visual acuity, intraocular pressure, changes in eye axis, cornea, retina, and FCVB state were recorded after the operation.

Results

In all patients, the FCVB was properly positioned and well supported with the retina. All 61 patients cleared a follow-up window of 1–36 months with no reports of important changes in their visual acuity. Among the patients, 91.8% reported normal intraocular pressure, the retinal reattachment rate reached 100%, and the eyeball atrophy control rate reached 100%. There was no report of rupture of the FCVB, allergies to silicone, intraocular infection, intraocular hemorrhage, silicone oil emulsification, or sympathetic ophthalmia.

Conclusions

Foldable capsular vitreous bodies (FCVBs) designed to mimic natural vitreous bodies are suitable as long-term ocular implants that can provide sustained support for the retina without the need for any special postoperative postures. Their barrier function may effectively prolong the retention time of the tamponade and prevent various complications caused by direct contact of the eye tissues with the tamponade.
Trust in pharmaceuticals and vaccine hesitancy: exploring factors influencing COVID-19 immunization among Lebanese children aged 1 to 11 years
Authors: Feghaly Emilie , Hanna Venise , Mohamad Nagham Karh , Assaf Mohamad Ali , Sebastian Juny , El Khatib Sami , Karam Rita , Zeitoun Abeer , Berry Atika , Samaha Hajar , Shouman Marwa , Obeid Sahar , Hallit Souheil , Malaeb Diana
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic is a serious threat to everyone’s health. Numerous studies have demonstrated that vaccines are very effective in preventing COVID-19-related severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Children’s vaccination exerts its protecting effect by preventing the spread of the virus. The purpose of this study was to analyze the rate of COVID-19 immunization among Lebanese children aged 1 to 11 years and assess parental factors that affect immunization rates.

Methods

An online cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2023. The online survey was distributed across all social media channels, including the Ministry of Public Health website.

Results

A total of 390 parents filled the survey (mean age = 37.48 ± 8.39 years; 50.5% mothers; 70% with a university level of education). Mothers compared to fathers, having a history of bad reaction to a vaccine vs. not, and higher vaccine hesitancy were significantly associated with less willingness to administer the vaccine to the child. Trusting pharmaceutical companies was significantly associated with more willingness to administer the vaccine to the child.

Conclusion

The results of this study show that the factors associated with parents’ decisions to vaccinate their children may vary. Our findings conclude that vaccine acceptance is being highly associated with parental concerns, trust, and information regarding the vaccine safety and efficacy.
Construction of a resting EEG-based depression recognition model for college students and possible mechanisms of action of different types of exercise
Authors: Li Lili , Wang Peng , Li Shufan , Zhao Qun , Yin Zhaosong , Guan Wei , Chen Sicheng , Wang Xing , Liao Jinlin
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To investigate the method of resting EEG assessment of depressive symptoms in college students and to clarify the relationship between physical activity level and depressive symptoms in college students.

Methods

Using a cross-sectional study design, 140 current full-time college students were recruited to complete the Self-Rating Depression Scale and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and 10-min resting EEGs were obtained.

Results

1) The power values of δ and α2 in the central (C3, C4) and parietal (P3, P4) regions of depressed college students were significantly higher than those of normal college students. And the degree of lateralization of δ, θ, α1, and α2 in the prefrontal regions (F3, F4) of depressed college students was significantly higher than that of normal college students (all P < 0. 008). 2) The recall rate of the depression recognition model for college students based on resting EEG was 66.67%, the precision was 65.05%, and the AUCs of the training group and validation group were 0.791 and 0.786, respectively, with better detection effects. 3) The two indicators, δ (C3 + C4) and α1 (F4-F3), are significantly correlated with IPAQ scores, and among college students who engage in ball games most commonly, those with a higher level of physical activity have lower δ (C3 + C4) and higher α1 (F4-F3), while among those who engage in resistance training most commonly, higher levels of physical activity are associated with lower δ (C3 + C4).

Conclusion

The resting EEG of depressed college students has a certain specificity that can objectively assess the risk of developing depressive symptoms in college students. Physical activity is associated with abnormal EEG signals of depressive symptoms. Different types of physical activity may modulate the relationship between physical activity levels and EEG indicators.
Smartphone usage behaviors and their association with De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis (DQT)among college students: a cross-sectional study in Guangxi, China
Authors: Nie Xinyu , Huang Lihong , Hou Jun , Dai Anyuan , He Lihuan , Zheng Puxiang , Ye Zhimao , Zhang Shiming , Zhou Guangqi , Zhang Jun , Hua Qikai
Published: November 2023

Background

The growing prevalence of smartphone use among college students in China has led to health concerns, including De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis (DQT). However, the specific smartphone usage behaviors contributing to DQT remain poorly understood. This study aimed to explore the relationship between smartphone usage behaviors and DQT in college students.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 937 students from various majors in Guangxi between September 2021 and April 2022. Participants completed an online questionnaire assessing smartphone usage behaviors and their association with DQT. The Finkelstein test was employed to diagnose DQT.

Results

Over half of the college students (52%) tested positive for DQT via Finkelstein’s test. Higher levels of smartphone usage time (6–8 h/day: OR = 4.454, 95%CI:1.662–12.229; ≥8 h/day: OR = 4.521, 95%CI:1.596–12.811), phone games (OR = 1.997, 95%CI:1.312–3.040), social media (OR = 2.263, 95%CI:1.795–3.833), and leisure activities (OR = 1.679, 95%CI:1.140–2.475) were significantly associated with an increased risk of DQT. Two specific gestures (Bilateral thumbs, BT: OR = 1.900, 95%CI:1.281–2.817; Bilateral thumbs-horizontal screen, BT-HS: OR = 1.872, 95%CI:1.244–2.818) and two screen sizes (5.0-5.5inch: OR = 2.064, 95%CI:1.108–3.846; 6.0-6.5inch: OR = 2.413, 95%CI:1.125–4.083) also exhibited a higher risk of DQT. Bilateral DQT was observed, with Gesture-BT identified as the primary risk factor.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that increased smartphone usage time, phone games, social media, and leisure activities elevate the risk of DQT among college students. Furthermore, two specific gestures and two screen sizes were also linked to a heightened DQT risk. To mitigate DQT development, college students should reduce smartphone usage time and adopt appropriate gestures.
Assessing hand hygiene knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among Guatemalan primary school students in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Pieters Michelle M , Fahsen Natalie , Quezada Ramiro , Pratt Caroline , Craig Christina , McDavid Kelsey , Vega Ocasio Denisse , Hug Christiana , Cordón-Rosales Celia , Lozier Matthew J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Hand hygiene (HH) is an important practice that prevents transmission of infectious diseases, such as COVID-19. However, in resource-limited areas, where water and soap are not always available, it can be difficult to practice HH correctly and at appropriate moments. The purpose of this study was to assess HH knowledge and behaviors among students from six elementary schools in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala to identify gaps that could later inform interventions to improve HH.

Methods

We conducted knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) surveys among primary school students during the COVID-19 pandemic in July 2022. We also observed students’ HH practices at three different moments during the day, making note of the use of the HH station and materials, duration of handwashing, presence of a HH assistant, and the students’ sex. We also used the Quantitative Personal Hygiene Assessment Tool (qPHAT), to measure hand dirtiness before eating, after restroom use, and upon arriving to school.

Results

We surveyed 109 students across six schools. Mean scores were 4 out of 5 for knowledge, 8 out of 8 for attitudes, and 6 out of 7 for HH practices. Most students identified “before eating” as a critical moment for HH (68.8%), fewer identified “after restroom use” (31.2%), and no students mentioned HH being necessary “after coughing or sneezing”. We observed 326 HH opportunities of which 51.2% performed correct HH (used water and soap for at least 20 s or used alcohol-based hand rub, where materials were available). We collected 82 qPHAT hand swabs. A Kruskal Wallis test revealed a significant difference in hand dirtiness between entering the school and after restroom use (p = 0.017), but no significant difference before eating and after entering the school (p = 0.6988).

Conclusions

The results from the KAP survey show high scores, however correct identification of key moments for HH was relatively uncommon, especially after restroom use and after coughing or sneezing. Additionally, half of HH opportunities observed had correct HH practices and on average, hands were dirtiest when arriving at school. These findings will inform interventions to improve HH practices and behaviors, which will be evaluated with follow-up data collection.
Evaluation of patients´ perspective on a multimorbidity patient-centered care model piloted in the chilean public health system
Authors: Sapag Jaime C. , Martínez Mayra , Zamorano Paula , Varela Teresita , Téllez Álvaro , Irazoqui Esteban , Muñoz Paulina
Published: November 2023

Background

The progressive multimorbidity explosion has challenged Chile’s health systems and worldwide. The Centro de Innovación en Salud ANCORA UC implemented a new Multimorbidity Patient-Centered Care Model in Chile.

Objective

Evaluate the perspective of high-risk patients about the core elements of the model.

Methodology

We conducted a cross sectional telephone-based survey that considered the application of a 13 items questionnaire. Of them, nine were Likert scale questions with scores from 1 to 7, one dichotomic question, and three open-ended questions. 231 high-risk patients who received care through the model at primary care centers participated in the study. Quantitative data were encoded, consolidated, and analyzed with the SPSS software. We performed descriptive and analytic statistics techniques to assess different variables and their potential associations. Thematic analysis was conducted for qualitative data.

Results

The overall score was 5.84 (range: 1 to 7), with a standard deviation of 1.25. Questions with the best scores were those related with personalized care and the primary care teams. The lowest scored was for the item regarding the continuity of care between primary nurses and inpatient care at the hospital. There was a difference in patient outcomes depending on their health center. Regarding sociodemographic characteristics, age did not significantly affect the results.

Conclusions

The study reveals the perceptions about a complex multimorbidity intervention from the patient’s perspective. It complements the impact on health services utilization evaluation that supports decision-makers currently scaling up a similar strategy in our country and could be considered in other countries dealing with non-communicable diseases.
Assessing, updating and utilising primary care smoking records for lung cancer screening
Authors: McCutchan Grace , Engela-Volker Jean , Anyanwu Philip , Brain Kate , Abel Nicole , Eccles Sinan
Published: November 2023

Background

Lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography for high-risk populations is being implemented in the UK. However, inclusive identification and invitation of the high-risk population is a major challenge for equitable lung screening implementation. Primary care electronic health records (EHRs) can be used to identify lung screening-eligible individuals based on age and smoking history, but the quality of EHR smoking data is limited. This study piloted a novel strategy for ascertaining smoking status in primary care and tested EHR search combinations to identify those potentially eligible for lung cancer screening.

Methods

Seven primary care General Practices in South Wales, UK were included. Practice-level data on missing tobacco codes in EHRs were obtained. To update patient EHRs with no tobacco code, we developed and tested an algorithm that sent a text message request to patients via their GP practice to update their smoking status. The patient’s response automatically updated their EHR with the relevant tobacco code. Four search strategies using different combinations of tobacco codes for the age range 55-74+ 364 were tested to estimate the likely impact on the potential lung screening-eligible population in Wales. Search strategies included: BROAD (wide range of ever smoking codes); VOLUME (wide range of ever-smoking codes excluding “trivial” former smoking); FOCUSED (cigarette-related tobacco codes only), and RECENT (current smoking within the last 20 years).

Results

Tobacco codes were not recorded for 3.3% of patients (n = 724/21,956). Of those with no tobacco code and a validated mobile telephone number (n = 333), 55% (n = 183) responded via text message with their smoking status. Of the 183 patients who responded, 43.2% (n = 79) had a history of smoking and were potentially eligible for lung cancer screening. Applying the BROAD search strategy was projected to result in an additional 148,522 patients eligible to receive an invitation for lung cancer screening when compared to the RECENT strategy.

Conclusion

An automated text message system could be used to improve the completeness of primary care EHR smoking data in preparation for rolling out a national lung cancer screening programme. Varying the search strategy for tobacco codes may have profound implications for the size of the population eligible for lung-screening invitation.
Clinical study of modified INFIX combined with sacroiliac joint screws for pelvic instable injuries
Authors: Zhao Peishuai , Li Renjie , Liu Leyu , Wang Xiaopan , Chen Xiaotian , Guan Jianzhong , Wu Min
Published: November 2023

Objective

The INFIX technique is becoming one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures for anterior pelvic ring instability injuries. The purpose of this article is to compare the clinical outcomes of modified anterior subcutaneous internal fixation (M-INFIX) with conventional anterior subcutaneous internal fixation (C-INFIX) for anterior pelvic ring instability injuries.

Patients and methods

A retrospective analysis of 36 cases of unstable pelvic injuries treated operatively at our institution, 20 of which were treated with C-INFIX and 16 with M-INFIX. Data collected included age, gender, ISS score, fracture typing, operative time, operative bleeding, postoperative complications, fracture healing time, Matta score, Majeed score, and follow-up time. Statistical sub-folding of each variable between the two groups was performed.

Results

There was no statistical difference between the C-INFIX and M-INFIX groups in terms of age, gender, ISS (Injury Severity Score), follow-up time, fracture typing, fracture healing time, and Majeed score (P > 0.05). the M-INFIX had a significantly lower incidence of postoperative complications than the C-INFIX group, especially in the incidence of Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) injury (P < 0.05). In contrast, the M-INFIX group had statistically higher operative time, intraoperative bleeding, and Matta score than the C-INFIX group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study was based on a modified application of the surgical experience with C-INFIX and showed better clinical outcomes in terms of complication rates and quality of repositioning than the conventional surgical approach. These findings indicate that further analytical studies of this study would be valuable.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia and metabolic syndrome; prevalence and association: a cross-sectional study in Syria
Authors: Daher Mohanad , Saqer Tareq , Jabr Mahmoud , Al-Mousa Samaher
Published: November 2023

Background

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is considered the most common cause of lower urinary tract symptoms in men aged 40 years and older. BPH is related to sex steroids, but there are increasing studies investigating the relationship between the urinary symptoms and the metabolic syndrome. They still have inconsistent results; some reported a significant positive association, while others found no significant association. In this study, we aim to assess the prevalence rate of metabolic syndrome in BPH patients and whether there is an association between symptoms linked to BPH and metabolic syndrome in the Syrian community.

Methods

The participants of this observational cross-sectional study were benign prostatic hyperplasia patients aged 40-year-old and older from Homs, Syria. An interview questionnaire was performed to collect data from all patients who visited the urology clinic of Homs Military Hospital in the period of January 10 to March 10, 2023. We used the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) to assess the urinary symptoms, and we used the US National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP ATPIII) criteria to define the metabolic syndrome.

Results

The final sample size was 426 patients. The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 46.2%. Patients with metabolic syndrome had higher International Prostate Symptom Score compared to patients without metabolic syndrome (21 vs. 18, P < 0.001), and 59.3% of patients with metabolic syndrome suffered from severe symptoms compared to 36.2% of patients without metabolic syndrome who suffered from severe lower urinary tract symptoms (P < 0.001). There was a positive association between (waist circumference, diabetes, triglycerides) (P < 0.001), HDL (P = 0.014) and higher International Prostate Symptom Score. However, there was no statistically significant association between blood pressure and International Prostate Symptom Score (P = 0.879).

Conclusion

Our results showed that patients with metabolic syndrome had a higher International Prostate Symptom Score. This idea should be used to design a new benign prostatic hyperplasia/lower urinary tract symptoms treatment.
Comparison of exenatide alone or combined with metformin versus metformin in the treatment of polycystic ovaries: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Yan , Song Xiangxin , Hamiti Shaila , Ma Yanyong , Yusufu Mainu , Wang Xing , Zhang Kaidi , Guo Yanying
Published: November 2023

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility in women of childbearing age. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have reported that exenatide and metformin are effective in the treatment of PCOS. In this meta-analysis, we aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of exenatide alone or in combination with metformin versus metformin in patients suffering from PCOS.

Methods

RCTs of exenatide therapy were identified through a search of electronic databases in November 2022 and updated in October 2023. Eligible studies were identified independently by the reviewers. Outcomes were analysed with Revman 5.4.

Results

Nine RCTs among 214 studies on 1059 women with PCOS were included in the analysis, and among the nine RCTs, eight studies compared exenatide with metformin. Our meta-analysis demonstrated that exenatide was more effective than metformin in terms of pregnancy rate (RR 1.85 [95% CI 1.19,2.86] P = 0.006), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) (MD 5 [95% CI 3.82,6.18] P < 0.001), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (MD 0.82 [95% 0.41,1.24] P < 0.001). The reductions in total testosterone (TT) (SMD -0.43 [95% CI -0.84, -0.03] P = 0.04) was more significant after treatment with exenatide than after treatment with metformin. In terms of safety, exenatide had a lower diarrhea rate (RR 0.11 [95% CI 0.01, 0.84]) than metformin. In the other three studies, exenatide plus metformin was compared with metformin. Exenatide combined with metformin was more effective in improving SHBG (MD 10.38[95%CI 6.7,14.06] P < 0.001), Matsuda index (MD 0.21[95%CI 0.05,0.37]) and reducing free androgen index (FAI) (MD -3.34 [-4.84, -1.83] P < 0.001), Weight (MD -2.32 [95%CI -3.89, -0.66]) and WC (MD-5.61[95%CI -8.4, -2.82] P < 0.001). The incidence of side effects between exenatide plus metformin and metformin was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Exenatide alone or in combination with metformin is more effective than metformin for women with PCOS. Considering the evidence on effectiveness and safety, exenatide alone or in combination with metformin may be a better treatment approach than metformin for women with PCOS.

Trial registration

INPLASY https://inplasy.com/inplasy-protocols/ ID: 10.37766/inplasy2022.11.0055.