bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of polyethylene glycol loxenatide versus insulin glargine on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized, open-label, parallel-group trial
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Zhang Chuanyan , Chen Jingxian , Deng Feiying , Wu Zezhen , Zhu Dan , Chen Fengwu , Duan Yale , Zhao Yue , Hou Kaijian
Published: May 2023

Objective: This trial aimed to evaluate the glycemic control of polyethylene glycol loxenatide measured with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), with the hypothesis that participants given PEG-Loxe would spend more time in time-in-range (TIR) than participants were given insulin glargine after 24 weeks of treatment.

Methods: This 24-week, randomized, open-label, parallel-group study was conducted in the Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Longhu Hospital, Shantou, China. Participants with T2DM, who were ≥45 years of age, HbA1c of 7.0%–11.0%, and treated at least 3 months with metformin were randomized (1:1) to receive PEG-Loxe or insulin glargine. The primary endpoint was TIR (blood glucose range: 3.9–10.0 mmol/L) during the last 2 weeks of treatment (weeks 22–24).

Results: From March 2020 to April 2022, a total of 107 participants with T2DM were screened, of whom 78 were enrolled into the trial (n = 39 per group). At the end of treatment (weeks 22–24), participants given PEG-Loxe had a greater proportion of time in TIR compared with participants given insulin glargine [estimated treatment difference (ETD) of 13.4% (95% CI, 6.8 to 20.0, p < 0.001)]. The tight TIR (3.9–7.8 mmol/L) was greater with PEG-Loxe versus insulin glargine, with an ETD of 15.6% (95% CI, 8.9 to 22.4, p < 0.001). The time above range (TAR) was significantly lower with PEG-Loxe versus insulin glargine [ETD for level 1: −10.5% (95% CI: −14.9 to −6.0), p < 0.001; ETD for level 2: −4.7% (95% CI: −7.9 to −1.5), p = 0.004]. The time below range (TBR) was similar between the two groups. The mean glucose was lower with PEG-Loxe versus insulin glargine, with an ETD of −1.2 mmol/L (95% CI, −1.9 to −0.5, p = 0.001). The SD of CGM glucose levels was 1.88 mmol/L for PEG-Loxe and 2.22 mmol/L for insulin glargine [ETD -0.34 mmol/L (95% CI: −0.55 to −0.12), p = 0.002], with a similar CV between the two groups.

Conclusion: The addition of once-weekly GLP-1RA PEG-Loxe to metformin was superior to insulin glargine in improving glycemic control and glycemic variability evaluated by CGM in middle-aged and elderly patients with T2DM.
Case Report: Nintedanib for immune-related pneumonitis triggered by anti-PD-1 treatment in a patient with SMARCA4-mutant NSCLC: a case report
Authors: Deng Changwen , Deng Ganxiu , Zhu Xiaoping
Published: May 2023

SMARCA4-mutant lung cancer accounts for approximately 10% of non-small-cell lung cancers (NSCLCs), has few effective treatments, and has been associated with a poor prognosis. Our case report describes a 73-year-old man who was diagnosed with SMARCA4-mutant advanced lung adenocarcinoma. Routine driver gene mutation screening was negative, and tumor tissue immunohistochemistry analysis showed the absence of the BRG1 protein (encoded by SMARCA4). In addition to the standard chemotherapy regimens, programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors were administered. After three cycles of combination therapy, the focus of the primary lung tumor shrunk evidently, but radiological interstitial abnormalities emerged in the basal and subpleural areas of the bilateral lungs. The patient’s clinical condition deteriorated and he was diagnosed with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-associated pneumonia. Thus, the combination regimen was discontinued, corticosteroid therapy was administered according to guidelines, and nintedanib was added, given that interstitial abnormalities were observed on chest computed tomography (CT). Following the above treatment, the patient’s condition improved, the standard chemotherapy regimen was restarted, and nintedanib treatment was maintained. The patient’s clinical condition continued to improve, and follow-up CT showed significant resolution of the interstitial abnormalities and stabilization of the primary tumor lesion. In summary, we report the case of a patient with SMARCA4-mutant NSCLC, which is generally considered to be associated with a poor prognosis owing to a lack of effective treatments. The patient responded favorably to initial combination therapy with ICIs, although he subsequently developed immune-related adverse events. We also found that nintedanib, a multitargeted anti-fibrotic agent, was beneficial for the treatment of immune-related lung injury and showed potential anti-tumor effects.
One stone two birds: anti-inflammatory bronchodilators as a potential pharmacological strategy for COVID-19
Authors: Yu Yuanyuan , Fang Bangjiang , Yang Xiao-Dong , Zheng Yuejuan
Published: May 2023

The ongoing Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has imposed a huge threat to public health across the world. While vaccinations are essential for reducing virus transmission and attenuating disease severity, the nature of high mutation rate of SARS-CoV-2 renders vaccines less effective, urging quick development of effective therapies for COVID-19 disease. However, developing novel drugs remains extremely challenging due to the lengthy process and high cost. Alternatively, repurposing of existing drugs on the market represents a rapid and safe strategy for combating COVID-19 pandemic. Bronchodilators are first line drugs for inflammatory lung diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Compared to other anti-inflammatory drugs repurposed for COVID-19, bronchodilators are unique in that they have both anti-inflammatory and bronchodilating properties. Whether the dual properties of bronchodilators empower them greater potential to be repurposed for COVID-19 is worth exploring. In fact, clinical and preclinical studies have recently emerged to investigate the benefits of bronchodilators such assalbutamol, formoterol and theophylline in treating COVID-19, and many of them have shown encouraging efficacy on attenuating disease severity of pneumonia and other associated symptoms. To comprehensively understand the latest progress on COVID-19 intervention with bronchodilators, this review will summarize recent findings in this area and highlight the promising clinical benefits and possible adverse effects of bronchodilators as therapeutic options for COVID-19 with a focus on β2 receptor agonists, anticholinergic drugs and theophylline.
Light field analysis for modeling and transmission characteristics of partially coherent light-emitting diodes
Authors: Miao Zhifang , Zhang Pengfei , Lu Fang , Han Xiang’e , Li Qiwei
Published: May 2023

When analyzing the transmission characteristics of LEDs for long-distance lighting and communication applications, the light field is commonly assumed to be fully incoherent. However, in reality, the LED light source emits partially coherent light with a spatial coherence length on the order of microns. This paper is based on the generalized higher-order Lambert model of LEDs and aims to construct a Gaussian-Schell model for the LED beam (LED-GSM) on the near-field source plane, with a half-power angle of no more than 10o. Utilizing the cross-spectral density function transmission theory for partially coherent light, this paper provides the LED-GSM model’s spatial coherence length and beam radius at different distances and designs an experiment for measuring the spatial coherence length of LED beams. Experimental measurements of the spatial coherence length and beam spot size of LED beams at different distances are carried out using a Thorlabs LED528EHP light source. The experimental results match well with the theoretical simulations of the LED-GSM model, thus validating its effectiveness. Then, the proposed LED-GSM model is utilized to investigate the long-distance transmission characteristics of partially coherent narrow-beam LED light. Simulation results indicate that the spatial coherence length of the LED light field can reach tens to hundreds of millimeters over transmission distances of several kilometers. The beam radius is much smaller than that of the beam radius based on the fully incoherent model, and the beam intensity distribution also displays distinct differences.
The metabolic recovery of marathon runners: an untargeted 1H-NMR metabolomics perspective
Authors: Bester Rachelle , Stander Zinandré , Mason Shayne , Keane Karen M. , Howatson Glyn , Clifford Tom , Stevenson Emma J. , Loots Du Toit
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Extreme endurance events may result in numerous adverse metabolic, immunologic, and physiological perturbations that may diminish athletic performance and adversely affect the overall health status of an athlete, especially in the absence of sufficient recovery. A comprehensive understanding of the post-marathon recovering metabolome, may aid in the identification of new biomarkers associated with marathon-induced stress, recovery, and adaptation, which can facilitate the development of improved training and recovery programs and personalized monitoring of athletic health/recovery/performance. Nevertheless, an untargeted, multi-disciplinary elucidation of the complex underlying biochemical mechanisms involved in recovery after such an endurance event is yet to be demonstrated.

Methods: This investigation employed an untargeted proton nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomics approach to characterize the post-marathon recovering metabolome by systematically comparing the pre-, immediately post, 24, and 48 h post-marathon serum metabolite profiles of 15 athletes.

Results and Discussion: A total of 26 metabolites were identified to fluctuate significantly among post-marathon and recovery time points and were mainly attributed to the recovery of adenosine triphosphate, redox balance and glycogen stores, amino acid oxidation, changes to gut microbiota, and energy drink consumption during the post-marathon recovery phase. Additionally, metabolites associated with delayed-onset muscle soreness were observed; however, the mechanisms underlying this commonly reported phenomenon remain to be elucidated. Although complete metabolic recovery of the energy-producing pathways and fuel substrate stores was attained within the 48 h recovery period, several metabolites remained perturbed throughout the 48 h recovery period and/or fluctuated again following their initial recovery to pre-marathon-related levels.
Associations between long-term exercise participation and lower limb joint and whole-bone geometry in young and older adults
Authors: Scorcelletti Matteo , Zange Jochen , Böcker Jonas , Sies Wolfram , Lau Patrick , Mittag Uwe , Reeves Neil D. , Ireland Alex , Rittweger Jörn
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Features of lower limb bone geometry are associated with movement kinematics and clinical outcomes including fractures and osteoarthritis. Therefore, it is important to identify their determinants. Lower limb geometry changes dramatically during development, partly due to adaptation to the forces experienced during physical activity. However, the effects of adulthood physical activity on lower limb geometry, and subsequent associations with muscle function are relatively unexplored.

Methods: 43 adult males were recruited; 10 young (20–35 years) trained i.e., regional to world-class athletes, 12 young sedentary, 10 older (60–75 years) trained and 11 older sedentary. Skeletal hip and lower limb geometry including acetabular coverage and version angle, total and regional femoral torsion, femoral and tibial lateral and frontal bowing, and frontal plane lower limb alignment were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging. Muscle function was assessed recording peak power and force of jumping and hopping using mechanography. Associations between age, training status and geometry were assessed using multiple linear regression, whilst associations between geometry and muscle function were assessed by linear mixed effects models with adjustment for age and training.

Results: Trained individuals had 2° (95% CI:0.6°–3.8°; p = 0.009) higher femoral frontal bowing and older individuals had 2.2° (95% CI:0.8°–3.7°; p = 0.005) greater lateral bowing. An age-by-training interaction indicated 4° (95% CI:1.4°–7.1°; p = 0.005) greater acetabular version angle in younger trained individuals only. Lower limb geometry was not associated with muscle function (p > 0.05).

Discussion: The ability to alter skeletal geometry via exercise in adulthood appears limited, especially in epiphyseal regions. Furthermore, lower limb geometry does not appear to be associated with muscle function.
Kidney transcriptome and cystic kidney disease genes in zebrafish
Authors: Koslow Matthew , Zhu Ping , McCabe Chantal , Xu Xiaolei , Lin Xueying
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a condition where fluid filled cysts form on the kidney which leads to overall renal failure. Zebrafish has been recently adapted to study polycystic kidney disease, because of its powerful embryology and genetics. However, there are concerns on the conservation of this lower vertebrate in modeling polycystic kidney disease.

Methods: Here, we aim to assess the molecular conservation of zebrafish by searching homologues polycystic kidney disease genes and carrying transcriptome studies in this animal.

Results and Discussion: We found that out of 82 human cystic kidney disease genes, 81 have corresponding zebrafish homologs. While 75 of the genes have a single homologue, only 6 of these genes have two homologs. Comparison of the expression level of the transcripts enabled us to identify one homolog over the other homolog with >70% predominance, which would be prioritized for future experimental studies. Prompted by sexual dimorphism in human and rodent kidneys, we studied transcriptome between different sexes and noted significant differences in male vs. female zebrafish, indicating that sex dimorphism also occurs in zebrafish. Comparison between zebrafish and mouse identified 10% shared genes and 38% shared signaling pathways. String analysis revealed a cluster of genes differentially expressed in male vs. female zebrafish kidneys. In summary, this report demonstrated remarkable molecular conservation, supporting zebrafish as a useful animal model for cystic kidney disease.
A systematic review and meta-analytic synthesis of the relationship between compulsory citizenship behaviors and its theoretical correlates
Authors: Yildiz Bora , Kaptan Zeynep , Yildiz Tayfun , Elibol Esengul , Yildiz Harun , Ozbilgin Mustafa
Published: May 2023

Background

Compulsory citizenship behaviors (CCBs) are increasingly endorsed and expected of workers in contexts where managerial worker protections are low and performance demands on workers are high. Although studies on compulsory citizenship behaviors have shown a significant increase in recent years, the literature still lacks a comprehensive meta-analysis. To fill this gap the purpose of this study is to synthesize the collective outcomes of prior quantitative research on CCBs with the objective of identifying the factors linked to the concept and offering a primary reference for future researchers.

Methods

Forty-three different correlates with CCBs were synthesized. The dataset of this meta-analysis consists of 53 independent samples with a sample size of 17.491, contributing to 180 effect sizes. PRISMA flow diagram and PICOS framework were used for the study design.

Result

Results showed only gender and age were significant among demographic characteristics related to CCBs. Correlates between CCBs and counterproductive workplace behaviors, felt obligation, work-family conflict, organizational-based self-esteem, organizational cynicism, burnout, anger toward the organization, and work alienation were found as large. We also found turnover intention, moral disengagement, careerism, abusive supervision, citizenship pressure, job stress, facades of conformity, and feeling trusted to be moderately related to CCBs. Next, there was a small relationship between CCBs and social loafing. On the other hand, LMX, psychological safety, organizational identification, organizational justice, organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and job autonomy were found as significant deterrents of CCBs. These results suggest that CCBs flourish in contexts with low levels of worker protection and low road practices to people management.

Conclusion

In sum, we found solid cumulative evidence that CCBs are a harmful and undesirable phenomenon for employees and organizations. Also, positive correlations of felt obligation, feeling trusted, and organization-based self-esteem with CCBs, showed that, contrary to general acceptance, positive factors could also cause CCBs. Lastly, we found CCBs as a dominant phenomenon in eastern culture.
Cognitive liberty and the psychedelic humanities
Authors: González Romero Osiris
Published: May 2023

This research aims to conceptualize cognitive liberty and the psychedelic humanities by examining their constitutive elements. The importance of this study lies in the fact that it is widespread to talk about psychedelic science nowadays, but there is a significant gap in the research. For instance, the role and importance of the humanities need to be acknowledged. Regarding cognitive liberty, this research considers that people have the right to use or refrain from using emerging neurotechnologies and psychedelics. People’s freedom of choice vis-à-vis these technologies must be protected, in particular with regard to coercive and non-consensual uses. Firstly, an analysis will be carried out of the constitutive elements of cognitive liberty, especially within the context of a philosophical approach. Secondly, this research will address some arguments for the philosophical uses of psychedelics. Finally, this paper will discuss the scope and significance of psychedelic humanities as a vein of research. Cognitive liberty is a crucial concept for the psychedelic humanities, likely to broaden our understanding of consciousness studies and reflect on ethical and social issues related to scientific research. Cognitive liberty is an update of freedom of thought according to the challenges of the 21st century. In addition, this paper will highlight the possible philosophical uses of psychedelic substances to broaden the research scope since, at present, the ritual and therapeutic uses of psychedelics have the most significant legitimacy. Recognition of philosophical uses demonstrates that learning from non-clinical uses of psychedelics is possible. The psychedelic humanities represent an underexplored avenue of research that can contribute to a better understanding of the interplay between science and culture.
Two types of redundancy in multimedia learning: a literature review
Authors: Trypke Melanie , Stebner Ferdinand , Wirth Joachim
Published: May 2023

Regarding the redundancy effect in multimedia learning environments, more consistency is needed in the theoretical assumptions and investigation of this effect. Current research lacks a comprehensive account of different redundant scenarios in which materials facilitate or inhibit learning and provides little conceptual guidance on how learning processes are affected by different types of redundancy. Theoretical assumptions refer to redundancy as a contentual overlap of information provided by the learning material; in this case, processing duplicated information strains the learners’ limited cognitive capacities. Other assumptions refer to the role of processing limitations in working memory channels, including separate processing for visual and verbal information. In this case, an ineffective combination of sources leads to an overload of the limited working memory capacity. This paper reviews empirical research on the redundancy effect (63 studies) and classifies two types of redundancy: (1) content redundancy, and (2) working memory channel redundancy. From an instructional psychology perspective, the analyses reveal four different implementations of redundant scenarios: (1) adding narration to visualizations, (2) adding written text to visualizations, (3) adding written text to narration, and (4) adding written text to narrated visualizations. Regarding the effects of the two redundancy types within these scenarios, analyses indicate positive effects of content redundancy (affected by learners’ prior knowledge), negative effects of working memory channel redundancy (regarding visualizations and written text), and positive effects of working memory channel redundancy (regarding narration and written text). Moreover, results point to factors that might moderate the effect of redundancy and illustrate interactions with existing multimedia effects. Overall, this review provides an overview of the state of empirical research and reveals that the consideration of both redundancy types provides further explanations in this field of research.
Absence of associations with prefrontal cortex and cerebellum may link to early language and social deficits in preschool children with ASD
Authors: Xin Jing , Huang Kaiyu , Yi Aiwen , Feng Ziyu , Liu Heng , Liu Xiaoqing , Liang Lili , Huang Qingshan , Xiao Yaqiong
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disorder, characterized by language and social deficits that begin to appear in the first years of life. Research in preschool children with ASD has consistently reported increased global brain volume and abnormal cortical patterns, and the brain structure abnormalities have also been found to be clinically and behaviorally relevant. However, little is known regarding the associations between brain structure abnormalities and early language and social deficits in preschool children with ASD.

Methods

In this study, we collected magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from a cohort of Chinese preschool children with and without ASD (24 ASD/20 non-ASD) aged 12–52 months, explored group differences in brain gray matter (GM) volume, and examined associations between regional GM volume and early language and social abilities in these two groups, separately.

Results

We observed significantly greater global GM volume in children with ASD as compared to those without ASD, but there were no regional GM volume differences between these two groups. For children without ASD, GM volume in bilateral prefrontal cortex and cerebellum was significantly correlated with language scores; GM volume in bilateral prefrontal cortex was significantly correlated with social scores. No significant correlations were found in children with ASD.

Discussion

Our data demonstrate correlations of regional GM volume with early language and social abilities in preschool children without ASD, and the absence of these associations appear to underlie language and social deficits in children with ASD. These findings provide novel evidence for the neuroanatomical basis associated with language and social abilities in preschool children with and without ASD, which promotes a better understanding of early deficits in language and social functions in ASD.
Out-of-pocket health expenditure and associated factors among patients with hypertension in Debre-Tabor Comphrensive Specialized Hospital, South Gondar zone, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020
Authors: Alemayehu Melkamu , Addis Banchlay , Hagos Tsega
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Hypertension is a non-communicable chronic disease that has a wide financial effect at the individual and household levels especially in developing countries due to its complexity and chronicity. Nevertheless, there are limited studies in Ethiopia. Therefore the aim of this study was to assess out-of pocket health expenditure and associated factors among adult patients with hypertension in Debre-Tabor Comphrensive Specialized Hospital.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in total of 357 adult hypertensive patients from March to April 2020 using a systematic random sampling technique. Descriptive stastics were used to estimate the magnitude of out-of-pocket health expenditure, while after checking the assumptions linear regression model was fitted for identifying the factors associated with the outcome variable at a significance level of value of p < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval.

Result

A total of 346 study participants interviewed with a response rate of 96.92%. Annual mean out of pocket health expenditure of the participant was $113.40 ± $10.18 with 95% CI = (102.63, 124.16) per patient. The direct medical mean out of pocket health expenditure of the participant was $68.86 per patient per year and the median of non-medical components of the out of pocket health expenditure of the participant was $3.53. Sex, wealth status, distance from hospital, comorbidity, health insurance and number of visit are factors significantly associated to out-of-pocket expenditure.

Conclusion

This study revealed that out of pocket health expenditure among adult patients with hypertension was found high compared to the national per capita health expenditure. Sex, wealth index, distance away from hospital, frequency of visit, comorbidities, and health insurance coverage were factors significantly associated with high out-of-pocket health expenditure. Ministry of health together with regional health bureaus and other concerned stakeholders work on strengthening early detection and prevention strategies of chronic comorbidities of hypertensive patients,promote health insurance coverage and better to subsidize medication costs for the poors.
Investigation of awareness rate of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) among the general public in China and analysis of influencing factors
Authors: Wang Yuqin , Xiao Mukun , Zhang Yueying , Hong Zhiwei , Zhang Ruochen , Xu Qingjiang , Lin Le , Wei Yongbao
Published: May 2023

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the awareness rate of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) among the general public in China and provide data about prostate cancer (PCa) for related scientific research.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of PSA awareness was conducted in multiple regional populations using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire included basic information, knowledge about PCa, the awareness rate and application of PSA, and future expectations toward applying PSA screening in clinical practice. The study applied the methods of Pearson chi-square analysis and Logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 493 valid questionnaires were included. Two hundred and nineteen respondents (44.4%) were males, and 274 (55.6%) were females. Of all respondents, 212 (43.0%) were under 20 years old, 147 (29.8%) were 20–30 years old, 74 (15.0%) were 30–40 years old, and 60 (12.2%) were over 40 years old. There are 310 people (62.9%) with medical educational background and 183 (37.1%) without. One hundred eighty-seven (37.9%) of the respondents were aware of PSA, and 306 (62.1%) were unaware of PSA. Statistically significant differences were obtained between the two groups regarding different ages, educational backgrounds, occupations, departments, and habits of knowing medical knowledge (all p < 0.05). In addition, the differences between the group of aware of PSA (AP) and the group unaware of PSA (UAP) in terms of whether they had been exposed to PSA screening and whether they had exposure to PCa patients or related knowledge were also observed (all p < 0.05). Age ≥30 years, medical educational background, understanding of medical knowledge, exposure to PCa patients or related knowledge, exposure to PSA screening, and status as a graduate student and above were independent factors for the occurrence of PSA awareness events (all p < 0.05). In addition, age ≥ 30 years, medical educational background, and awareness of PSA were independent factors for future expectations toward PSA (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

We first analyzed the public awareness of PSA. Cognition degrees of PSA and PCa awareness vary among different populations in China. Therefore, we should designate corresponding widespread scientific educational programs for different populations to increase the awareness rate of PSA.
Post-traumatic stress disorder and depressive symptoms among firefighters: a network analysis
Authors: Cheng Peng , Wang Lirong , Zhou Ying , Ma Wenjing , Zhao Guangju , Zhang Li , Li Weihui
Published: May 2023

Background

Firefighters, as first responders with a high risk of occupational exposure to traumatic events and heavy working stress, have a high prevalence of PTSD symptoms and depressive symptoms. But no previous studies analyzed the relationships and hierarchies of PTSD and depressive symptoms among firefighters. Network analysis is a novel and effective method for investigating the complex interactions of mental disorders at the symptom level and providing a new understanding of psychopathology. The current study was designed to characterize the PTSD and depressive symptoms network structure in the Chinese firefighters.

Method

The Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5 (PC-PTSD-5) and the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) were applied to assess PTSD and depressive symptoms, respectively. The network structure of PTSD and depressive symptoms was characterized using “expected influence (EI)” and “bridge EI” as centrality indices. The Walktrap algorithm was conducted to identify communities in the PTSD and depressive symptoms network. Finally, Network accuracy and stability were examined using the Bootstrapped test and the case-dropping procedure.

Results

A total of 1,768 firefighters were enrolled in our research. Network analysis revealed that the relationship between PTSD symptoms, “Flashback” and “Avoidance,” was the strongest. “Life emptiness” was the most central symptom with the highest EI in the PTSD and depression network model. Followed by “Fatigue” and “Interest loss.” Bridge symptoms connecting PTSD and depressive symptoms in our study were “Numb,” “High alertness,” “Sad mood,” and “Compunction and blame,” successively. The data-driven community detection suggested the differences in PTSD symptoms in the clustering process. The reliability of the network was approved by both stability and accuracy tests.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, the current study first demonstrated the network structure of PTSD and depressive symptoms among Chinese firefighters, identifying the central and bridge symptoms. Targeting interventions to the symptoms mentioned above may effectively treat firefighters suffering from PTSD and depressive symptoms.
Exploring HPV vaccination policy and payer strategies for opportunities to improve uptake in safety-net settings
Authors: Sloan Kylie , Shin Michelle , Palinkas Lawrence A. , Hudson Shawna V. , Crabtree Benjamin F. , Cantor Joel C. , Tsui Jennifer
Published: May 2023

Introduction

We explored priorities and perspectives on health policy and payer strategies for improving HPV vaccination rates in safety-net settings in the United States.

Methods

We conducted qualitative interviews with policy and payer representatives in the greater Los Angeles region and state of New Jersey between December 2020 and January 2022. Practice Change Model domains guided data collection, thematic analysis, and interpretation.

Results

Five themes emerged from interviews with 11 policy and 8 payer participants, including: (1) payer representatives not prioritizing HPV vaccination specifically in incentive-driven clinic metrics; (2) policy representatives noting region-specific HPV vaccine policy options; (3) inconsistent motivation across policy/payer groups to improve HPV vaccination; (4) targeting of HPV vaccination in quality improvement initiatives suggested across policy/payer groups; and (5) COVID-19 pandemic viewed as both barrier and opportunity for HPV vaccination improvement across policy/payer groups.

Discussion

Our findings indicate opportunities for incorporating policy and payer perspectives into HPV vaccine improvement processes. We identified a need to translate effective policy and payer strategies, such as pay-for-performance programs, to improve HPV vaccination within safety-net settings. COVID-19 vaccination strategies and community efforts create potential policy windows for expanding HPV vaccine awareness and access.
Lead poisoning in a 6-month-old infant: a case report
Authors: Duan Yifei , Yan Lingyi , Gao Zhengxiang , Gou Yu
Published: May 2023

Background

Lead is a toxic element of the environment that leads to major complications once it enters the blood stream, affecting multiple organs and systems of the body.

Methods

We present a case of a 6-month-old female infant diagnosed with lead poisoning after presenting for routine child health care. The child's mother denied that the infant had a history of exposure to lead-containing substances. After a month of calcium supplementation, the patient's blood lead level remained elevated. We then tested the blood lead level of the mother and father. The results showed that the blood lead level of the mother was 77.0 μg/L and that of the father was 36.9 μg/L. The high blood lead level of the mother attracted our attention. We found that the mother had been using an external traditional Chinese medicine, Hu Wang Fen, which contains lead. After the mother's discontinuation of use of the traditional medicine, the child was treated with symptomatic treatment and chelation therapy. Subsequently, the patient's blood lead level decreased significantly.

Results

Lead toxicity can be a life-threatening problem because of its potential for severe complications. In children, there is no safe blood lead level, and the toxic effects of lead can be prevented by the awareness and avoidance of traditional Chinese medicines that may contain lead.

Conclusion

Even though the diagnosis of lead poisoning remains difficult in children, it must be taken into consideration by the clinician when treating a child using traditional Chinese medicines.
Exposure of formal and informal nail technicians to organic solvents found in nail products
Authors: Keretetse Goitsemang , Nelson Gill , Brouwer Derk
Published: May 2023

Nail technicians are exposed to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from nail products used in their daily work, which may cause adverse health effects. This study aimed to assess VOC exposure of nail technicians in the South African formal and informal sectors and to provide a task-based exposure assessment of different nail applications. Personal passive sampling was conducted on 10 formal and 10 informal nail technicians located in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg and the Braamfontein area, over 3 days. Real-time measurements were taken to determine task-based peak exposures. The number of clients serviced, working hours, type of nail application, type of ventilation, room volume, and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations, were also recorded. There were differences in the nail products used, the types of nail applications performed, the number of clients serviced, and breathing zones VOC concentrations of the formal and informal nail technicians. Some formal nail salons were equipped with mechanical ventilation while the informal nail salons relied on natural ventilation. CO2 concentrations were higher in the informal than the formal nail salons and increased during the course of the working day. Formal nail technicians were exposed to higher total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) concentrations than informal nail technicians, which may be due to the different nail application procedures as well as ‘background’ emissions from their co-workers—the bystander effect. Acetone was the predominantly detected VOC: the formal nail technicians were exposed to significantly higher TWA (8 h) concentrations [geometric mean (GM) 43.8 ppm, geometric standard deviation (GSD) 2.49] than were the informal nail technicians (GM 9.87 ppm, GSD 5.13). Methyl methacrylate among the informal nail technicians was measured at 89.7% detection frequency, far higher than that among the formal nail technicians (3.4%). This may be attributed to the observed popularity of acrylic nail applications in this sector. Nail applications involving soak-off gave rise to high TVOC peaks at the start of the nail application process. This is the first study to compare organic solvent exposures among formal and informal nail technicians and determine task-based peak exposures. It also brings attention to the often-overlooked informal sector of this industry.
The impact of family function on post-traumatic reactions of Chinese adolescents infected with COVID-19: a latent profile study
Authors: Xu Mingtu , Tian Runhui , Fu Cong , Li Jingyang , Bi Dingyu , Wang Yan
Published: May 2023

Background

Since the end of 2019, Corona Virus Disease 2019, also known as COVID-19, has broken out in various countries. However, the change of China's COVID-19 prevention and control policy and the sharp increase in the number of infected people are making the teenagers have post-traumatic reactions. Negative post-traumatic reactions include: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety. Positive post-traumatic reaction mainly refers to post-traumatic growth (PTG). The purpose of this study is to explore the post-traumatic reaction, which refers to PTSD, depression, anxiety and the co-occurrence pattern of growth after trauma and to further explore the influence of family function on different categories of Post-traumatic Reactions.

Methods

Latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to explore the co-occurrence of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and PTG. Multiple logistics regression was used to analyze the influence of family function on different categories of post-traumatic response.

Results

There were three categories of post-traumatic reactions in adolescents infected with COVID-19 adolescents infected with COVID-19, namely: growth class, struggling class, and pain class. Multivariate Logistic regression showed that the growth class and struggling class were affected by problem solving and behavior control in family function, while the growth class and pain class were affected by problem solving, roles, behavior control, and general functioning. Multiple logistic regression showed that the growth class and struggling class were affected by problem solving and roles.

Conclusions

The findings of this study provide evidence for the identification of high-risk individuals and the provision of effective interventions in clinical practice, as well as the influence of family functioning on the different categories of PTSD among adolescents infected with COVID-19.
Blood-based biomarkers of frailty in solid tumors: a systematic review
Authors: Sass Dilorom , Parmelee Streck Brennan , Guedes Vivian A. , Cooper Diane , Guida Jennifer L. , Armstrong Terri S.
Published: May 2023

This review examines the current literature to identify biomarkers of frailty across patients with solid tumors. We conducted the systematic review using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis guidelines (PRISMA). PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched from their inception to December 08, 2021, for reports of biomarkers and frailty. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles. A quality assessment was conducted using NHLBI Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies, and Quality Assessment of Case-Control Studies. In total, 915 reports were screened, and 14 full-text articles were included in the review. Most studies included breast tumors, were cross-sectional in design, and measured biomarkers at baseline or pre-treatment. Frailty tools varied with Fried Frailty Phenotype and the geriatric assessment most frequently used. Increased inflammatory parameters (i.e., Interleukin-6, Neutrophil Lymphocyte Ratio, Glasgow Prognostic Score-2) were associated with frailty severity. Only six studies were rated as good quality using assessment ratings. Together, the small number of studies and heterogeneity in frailty assessment limited our ability to draw conclusions from the extant literature. Future research is needed to identify potential target biomarkers of frailty in cancer survivors that may aid in early detection and referral.
Comparison of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests during the COVID-19 pandemic with those before the pandemic: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kim Jae Hwan , Ahn Chiwon , Park Yeonkyung , Won Moonho
Published: May 2023

The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, directly and indirectly, affected the emergency medical care system and resulted in worse out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) outcomes and epidemiological features compared with those before the pandemic. This review compares the regional and temporal features of OHCA prognosis and epidemiological characteristics. Various databases were searched to compare the OHCA outcomes and epidemiological characteristics during the COVID-19 pandemic with before the pandemic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, survival and favorable neurological outcome rates were significantly lower than before. Survival to hospitalization, return of spontaneous circulation, endotracheal intubation, and use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) decreased significantly, whereas the use of a supraglottic airway device, the incidence of cardiac arrest at home, and response time of emergency medical service (EMS) increased significantly. Bystander CPR, unwitnessed cardiac arrest, EMS transfer time, use of mechanical CPR, and in-hospital target temperature management did not differ significantly. A subgroup analysis of the studies that included only the first wave with those that included the subsequent waves revealed the overall outcomes in which the epidemiological features of OHCA exhibited similar patterns. No significant regional differences between the OHCA survival rates in Asia before and during the pandemic were observed, although other variables varied by region. The COVID-19 pandemic altered the epidemiologic characteristics, survival rates, and neurological prognosis of OHCA patients.

Review registration: PROSPERO (CRD42022339435).
The epigenetic landscape: An evolving concept
Authors: Henikoff Steven
Published: May 2023

The epigenetic landscape was a visual metaphor introduced in the mid-twentieth century to illustrate the genetic control of embryonic differentiation. Although the popular understanding of epigenetics has since expanded to include gene and chromosomal mechanisms in all contexts, the landscape metaphor provides a unifying concept centered around processes that establish and maintain cellular memory. However, over the decades the term epigenetics has been also used to describe some non-genetic processes that bear little or no resemblance to the traditional concept of an epigenetic landscape. By establishing Frontiers in Epigenetics and Epigenomics, we aim to provide authors and readers a forum and an outlet for research that is centered around the original concept of an epigenetic landscape. Thanks in large part to exciting advances in epigenomic technologies, we expect that a deeper understanding of cellular memory will translate into new strategies for medicine, agriculture, and environmental health.
Indigenous Peoples' Rights in Data: a contribution toward Indigenous Research Sovereignty
Authors: Hudson Maui , Carroll Stephanie Russo , Anderson Jane , Blackwater Darrah , Cordova-Marks Felina M. , Cummins Jewel , David-Chavez Dominique , Fernandez Adam , Garba Ibrahim , Hiraldo Danielle , Jäger Mary Beth , Jennings Lydia L. , Martinez Andrew , Sterling Rogena , Walker Jennifer D. , Rowe Robyn K.
Published: May 2023

Indigenous Peoples' right to sovereignty forms the foundation for advocacy and actions toward greater Indigenous self-determination and control across a range of domains that impact Indigenous Peoples' communities and cultures. Declarations for sovereignty are rising throughout Indigenous communities and across diverse fields, including Network Sovereignty, Food Sovereignty, Energy Sovereignty, and Data Sovereignty. Indigenous Research Sovereignty draws in the sovereignty discourse of these initiatives to consider their applications to the broader research ecosystem. Our exploration of Indigenous Research Sovereignty, or Indigenous self-determination in the context of research activities, has been focused on the relationship between Indigenous Data Sovereignty and efforts to describe Indigenous Peoples' Rights in data.
Comparison between transrectal palpation, B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography to assess luteal function in Holstein cattle
Authors: Yáñez Uxía , Murillo Antonio V. , Becerra Juan J. , Herradón Pedro G. , Peña Ana I. , Quintela Luis A.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Over the years, the most common methods for monitoring reproductive health in cattle have varied from transrectal palpation to B-mode ultrasonography. Nowadays, some portable ultrasound equipment includes the Doppler mode. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of the different methods to assess corpus luteum (CL) functionality.

Methods

In Experiment 1, 53 Holstein lactating cows undergoing a synchronization protocol were examined via transrectal palpation and B-mode scanning. Measurements for the largest diameter (LAD) and subjective size of CL (SCLS) were collected. Data were analyzed using correlation analysis and ROC Curves. In Experiment 2, 30 Holstein non-lactating cows with a CL were administered PGF2α and examined several times after injection, first in B-mode and then with Power Doppler. Measurements for LAD, CL area (CLA) and subjective and objective CL blood flow were collected. Blood samples were taken in both experiments to determine P4 concentration. Data were analyzed using correlation analysis and the GLM repeated measures test.

Results

Results for Experiment 1 showed that LAD was more accurate than SCLS. In Experiment 2, CLA was the best measurement to assess CL function, although both subjective and objective CL blood flow offer accurate information 24 h after PGF2α administration.

Discussion

Consequently, ultrasonography provides more accurate information about CL function than transrectal palpation. Although CLA seems to be an earlier indicator of luteal function than blood flow, 24 h after the onset of luteolysis, both parameters are valid.
Screening and identification of the dominant antigens of the African swine fever virus
Authors: Xu Zhaoyang , Hu Yifan , Li Junbo , Wang Ancheng , Meng Xin , Chen Lingchao , Wei Jianchao , Tong Wu , Kong Ning , Yu Lingxue , Yu Hai , Shan Tongling , Tong Guangzhi , Wang Guihua , Zheng Hao
Published: May 2023

African swine fever is a highly lethal contagious disease of pigs for which there is no vaccine. Its causative agent African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a highly complex enveloped DNA virus encoding more than 150 open reading frames. The antigenicity of ASFV is still unclear at present. In this study, 35 proteins of ASFV were expressed by Escherichia coli, and ELISA was developed for the detection of antibodies against these proteins. p30, p54, and p22 were presented as the major antigens of ASFV, positively reacting with all five clinical ASFV-positive pig sera, and 10 pig sera experimentally infected by ASFV. Five proteins (pB475L, pC129R, pE199L, pE184L, and pK145R) reacted well with ASFV-positive sera. The p30 induced a rapid and strong antibody immune response during ASFV infection. These results will promote the development of subunit vaccines and serum diagnostic methods against ASFV.