bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Erholt und engagiert am Arbeitsplatz – mentales Abschalten nach der Arbeit als Mediator zwischen Servant Leadership und freiwilligem Arbeitsengagement
Authors: Steffen Freya Ellen , Externbrink Kai
Published: January 2021

Die kognitive Distanzierung von Arbeitsinhalten wahrend der arbeitsfreien Zeit ( psychological detachment) stellt einen wichtigen Faktor für Erholung, Wohlbefinden und andauernde Leistungsfähigkeit von Beschäftigten dar. Die Antezedenzien von mentalem Abschalten nach der Arbeit sind jedoch bisweilen nur unzureichend untersucht worden; dies gilt insbesondere für Variablen im unmittelbaren Arbeitsumfeld von Mitarbeitern. Was können Organisationen tun, um das mentale Abschalten ihrer Mitarbeiter in der Freizeit zu fordern? Basierend auf einer Kombination aus dem Stressor–Detachment Model und der Theorie der Ressourcenerhaltung gehen wir davon aus, dass Servant Leadership als Prädiktor von mentalem Abschalten nach der Arbeit betrachtet werden kann, welches sich wiederum positiv auf freiwilliges Arbeitsengagement (Organizational Citizenship Behavior), auswirkt. Die Hypothesen testen wir mittels Querschnittsdesign mit N = 121 Mitarbeitern eines Technologiekonzerns. Es werden Zeitintervalle zwischen den Erhebungszeitpunkten sowie Fremdbeurteilungen eingesetzt, um das Risiko von Methodenverzerrung zu minimieren. Die Ergebnisse eines Strukturgleichungsmodells zeigen hypothesenkonform, dass mentales Abschalten nach der Arbeit den Zusammenhang zwischen Servant Leadership und freiwilligem Arbeitsengagement teilweise mediiert. Implikationen für die Praxis und Ansatzpunkte für zukünftige Forschungsarbeiten werden diskutiert.
Role of long non-coding RNA H19 in therapy resistance of digestive system cancers
Authors: Wang Jingting , Ma Xiao , Si Hai , Ma Zhongjun , Ma Yan , Wang Jing , Cao Bangwei
Published: January 2021

Digestive system cancers are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the main treatment modalities for these cancers. However, the development of therapy resistance leads to high rates of tumor recurrence and metastasis, resulting in dismal prognosis. Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) H19, one of the most intriguing non-coding RNAs, has been shown to play a key role in the development and therapy resistance of various digestive system cancers (including hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, esophageal carcinoma, gastric cancer, and biliary system cancer) by regulating the abnormal expression of genes. In this review, we discuss the potential mechanisms of LncRNA H19 related therapy resistance in the context of digestive system cancers. LncRNA H19 is a potential novel therapeutic target for amelioration of cancer therapy resistance.
Unmet supportive care needs and associated factors among young adult cancer patients in Japan
Authors: Okamura Masako , Fujimori Maiko , Sato Ayako , Uchitomi Yosuke
Published: January 2021

Background

Young adult cancer patients often face unique challenges and have potential unmet needs. This study aimed (1) to describe unmet supportive care needs among young adults with cancer in Japan, and (2) to identify its associated factors.

Methods

In a cross-sectional web-based survey, 206 young adults with cancer were assessed for supportive care needs. Multiple regression analysis examined whether demographics, clinical variables and social support were associated with unmet supportive care needs.

Results

A total of 206 patients (180 female) with a mean age of 33.7 years (SD = 4.3, range: 22–39) participated. One hundred and fifty-eight participants (76.7%) reported at least one unmet supportive care needs. The top 20 unmet needs included 9 of the 10 psychological needs, 3 of the 5 physical and daily living needs, 8 of the 11 health system and information needs and 1 of the 5 sexuality needs. Multiple regression analysis revealed that perceived poorer PS, experience of change in work/school after a cancer diagnosis and poor social support were significantly associated with higher supportive care needs. The total score of supportive care needs was significantly associated with both psychological distress and QOL.

Conclusions

More than 70% of young adult cancer patients reported unmet supportive care needs and most of those were psychological needs. The findings suggest potential opportunities for intervention in addressing psychological needs rather than physical and information needs.
Identification of a novel six autophagy-related genes signature for the prognostic and a miRNA-related autophagy predictor for anti-PD-1 therapy responses in prostate cancer
Authors: Wu Lei , Quan Wen , Yue Guojun , Luo Qiong , Peng Dongxu , Pan Ying , Zhang Guihai
Published: January 2021

Background

Autophagy is a highly conserved homeostatic process in the human body that is responsible for the elimination of aggregated proteins and damaged organelles. Several autophagy-related genes (ARGs) contribute to the process of tumorigenesis and metastasis of prostate cancer (PCa). Also, miRNAs have been proven to modulate autophagy by targeting some ARGs. However, their potential role in PCa still remains unclear.

Methods

An univariate Cox proportional regression model was used to identify 17 ARGs associated with the overall survival (OS) of PCa. Then, a multivariate Cox proportional regression model was used to construct a 6 autophagy-related prognostic genes signature. Patients were divided into low-risk group and high-risk group using the median risk score as a cutoff value. High-risk patients had shorter OS than low-risk patients. Furthermore, the signature was validated by ROC curves. Regarding mRNA and miRNA, 12 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and 1073 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected via the GEO database. We found that miR-205, one of the DEMs, was negatively regulated the expression of ARG (NKX2–3). Based on STRING analysis results, we found that the NKX2–3 was moderately related to the part of genes among the 6 autophagy-related genes prognostic signature. Further, NKX 2–3 was significantly correlated with OS and some clinical parameters of PCa by cBioProtal. By gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Lastly, we demonstrated that the association between NKX2–3 and tumor mutation burden (TMB) and PDCD1 (programmed cell death 1) of PCa.

Results

We identified that the six ARGs expression patterns are independent predictors of OS in PCa patients. Furthermore, our results suggest that ARGs and miRNAs are inter-related. MiR-205 was negatively regulated the expression of ARG (NKX2–3). Further analysis demonstrated that NKX2–3 may be a potential biomarker for predicting the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy in PCa.

Conclusions

The current study may offer a novel autophagy-related prognostic signature and may identify a promising miRNA-ARG pathway for predicting the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy in PCa.
Study protocol of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-center trial to treat antipsychotic-induced weight gain: the Metformin-Lifestyle in antipsychotic users (MELIA) trial
Authors: de Boer Nini , Guloksuz Sinan , van Baal Caroline , Willebrands Leonie , Deenik Jeroen , Vinkers Christiaan H. , Rossum Inge Winter-van , Zinkstok Janneke , Wilting Ingeborg , Zantvoord Jasper B. , Backx Frank , Swildens Wilma E. , Schouw Marieke , Bogers Jan , Hulshof Folkwin , de Knijff Rudolf , Duindam Peter , Veereschild Mike , Bak Maarten , Frederix Geert , de Haan Lieuwe , van Os Jim , Cahn Wiepke , Luykx Jurjen J.
Published: January 2021

Background

Antipsychotic-induced Weight Gain (AiWG) is a debilitating and common adverse effect of antipsychotics. AiWG negatively impacts life expectancy, quality of life, treatment adherence, likelihood of developing type-2 diabetes and readmission. Treatment of AiWG is currently challenging, and there is no consensus on the optimal management strategy. In this study, we aim to evaluate the use of metformin for the treatment of AiWG by comparing metformin with placebo in those receiving treatment as usual, which includes a lifestyle intervention.

Methods

In this randomized, double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled, pragmatic trial with a follow-up of 52 weeks, we aim to include 256 overweight participants (Body Mass Index (BMI) > 25 kg/m2) of at least 16 years of age. Patients are eligible if they have been diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorder and if they have been using an antipsychotic for at least three months. Participants will be randomized with a 1:1 allocation to placebo or metformin, and will be treated for a total of 26 weeks. Metformin will be started at 500 mg b.i.d. and escalated to 1000 mg b.i.d. 2 weeks thereafter (up to a maximum of 2000 mg daily). In addition, all participants will undergo a lifestyle intervention as part of the usual treatment consisting of a combination of an exercise program and dietary consultations. The primary outcome measure is difference in body weight as a continuous trait between the two arms from treatment inception until 26 weeks of treatment, compared to baseline. Secondary outcome measures include: 1) Any element of metabolic syndrome (MetS); 2) Response, defined as ≥5% body weight loss at 26 weeks relative to treatment inception; 3) Quality of life; 4) General mental and physical health; and 5) Cost-effectiveness. Finally, we aim to assess whether genetic liability to BMI and MetS may help estimate the amount of weight reduction following initiation of metformin treatment.

Discussion

The pragmatic design of the current trial allows for a comparison of the efficacy and safety of metformin in combination with a lifestyle intervention in the treatment of AiWG, facilitating the development of guidelines on the interventions for this major health problem.

Trial registration

This trial was registered in the Netherlands Trial Register (NTR) at https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/8440 as NTR NL8840 on March 8, 2020.
Estimation of losses of quality-adjusted life expectancy attributed to the combination of cognitive impairment and multimorbidity among Chinese adults aged 45 years and older
Authors: Xiong Suting , Liu Siyuan , Qiao Yanan , He Dingliu , Ke Chaofu , Shen Yueping
Published: January 2021

Objectives

This study aims to estimate the losses of quality-adjusted life expectancy (QALE) due to the joint effects of cognitive impairment and multimorbidity, and to further confirm additional losses attributable to this interaction among middle-aged and elderly Chinese people.

Methods

The National Cause of Death Monitoring Data were linked with the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). A mapping and assignment method was used to estimate health utility values, which were further used to calculate QALE. Losses of QALE were measured by comparing the differences between subgroups. All the losses of QALE were displayed at two levels: the individual and population levels.

Results

At age 45, the individual-level and population-level losses of QALE attributed to the combination of cognitive impairment and multimorbidity were 7.61 (95% CI: 5.68, 9.57) years and 4.30 (95% CI: 3.43, 5.20) years, respectively. The losses for cognitive impairment alone were 3.10 (95% CI: 2.29, 3.95) years and 1.71 (95% CI: 1.32, 2.13) years at the two levels. Similarly, the losses for multimorbidity alone were 3.53 (95% CI: 2.53, 4.56) years and 1.91 (95% CI: 1.24, 2.63) years at the two levels. Additional losses due to the interaction of cognitive impairment and multimorbidity were indicated by the 0.98 years of the individual-level gap and 0.67 years of the population-level gap.

Conclusion

Among middle-aged and elderly Chinese people, cognitive impairment and multimorbidity resulted in substantial losses of QALE, and additional QALE losses were seen due to their interaction at both individual and population levels.
Temporal trends and regional disparities in cancer screening utilization: an observational Swiss claims-based study
Authors: Bähler Caroline , Brüngger Beat , Ulyte Agne , Schwenkglenks Matthias , von Wyl Viktor , Dressel Holger , Gruebner Oliver , Wei Wenjia , Blozik Eva
Published: January 2021

Background

We examined colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer screening utilization in eligible populations within three data cross-sections, and identified factors potentially modifying cancer screening utilization in Swiss adults.

Methods

The study is based on health insurance claims data of the Helsana Group. The Helsana Group is one of the largest health insurers in Switzerland, insuring approximately 15% of the entire Swiss population across all regions and age groups. We assessed proportions of the eligible populations receiving colonoscopy/fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), mammography, or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing in the years 2014, 2016, and 2018, and calculated average marginal effects of individual, temporal, regional, insurance-, supply-, and system-related variables on testing utilization using logistic regression.

Results

Overall, 8.3% of the eligible population received colonoscopy/FOBT in 2014, 8.9% in 2016, and 9.2% in 2018. In these years, 20.9, 21.2, and 20.4% of the eligible female population received mammography, and 30.5, 31.1, and 31.8% of the eligible male population had PSA testing. Adjusted testing utilization varied little between 2014 and 2018; there was an increasing trend of 0.8% (0.6–1.0%) for colonoscopy/FOBT and of 0.5% (0.2–0.8%) for PSA testing, while mammography use decreased by 1.5% (1.2–1.7%). Generally, testing utilization was higher in French-speaking and Italian-speaking compared to German-speaking region for all screening types. Cantonal programs for breast cancer screening were associated with an increase of 7.1% in mammography utilization. In contrast, a high density of relevant specialist physicians showed null or even negative associations with screening utilization.

Conclusions

Variation in cancer screening utilization was modest over time, but considerable between regions. Regional variation was highest for mammography use where recommendations are debated most controversially, and the implementation of programs differed the most.
EHealth to empower patients with musculoskeletal pain in rural Australia (EMPoweR) a randomised clinical trial: study protocol
Authors: Mesa-Castrillon Carlos I. , Simic Milena , Ferreira Manuela L. , Hatswell Kristy , Luscombe Georgina , de Gregorio Antonio Michell , Davis Phillip R. , Bauman Adrian , Bunker Stephen , Clavisi Ornella , Knox Grahame , Bennell Kim L. , Ferreira Paulo H.
Published: January 2021

Background

Low back pain (LBP) and knee osteoarthritis (OA) are major contributors to disability worldwide. These conditions result in a significant burden at both individual and societal levels. Engagement in regular physical activity and exercise programs are known to improve physical function in both chronic LBP and knee OA populations. For people residing in rural areas, musculoskeletal conditions are often more frequent and disabling compared to urban populations, which could be the result of reduced access to appropriate health services and resources in rural settings. EHealth is an innovative solution to help provide equitable access to treatment for people with musculoskeletal pain living in rural settings.

Methods/design

We will conduct a randomised clinical trial investigating the effects of an eHealth intervention compared to usual care, for people with chronic non-specific LBP or knee OA in rural Australia. We will recruit 156 participants with non-specific chronic LBP or knee OA. Following the completion of baseline questionnaires, participants will be randomly allocated to either the eHealth intervention group, involving a tailored physical activity and progressive resistance exercise program remotely delivered by a physiotherapist (n = 78), or usual care (n = 78) involving referral to a range of care practices in the community. Outcomes will be measured at baseline, 3 and 6 months post-randomisation. The primary outcome will be physical function assessed by the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS). Secondary outcomes include pain intensity, physical activity levels, activity limitations, quality of life, pain coping. We will also collect process evaluation data such as recruitment rate, attendance and adherence, follow-up rate, participants’ opinions and any barriers encountered throughout the trial.

Discussion

The findings from this trial will establish the effectiveness of eHealth-delivered interventions that are known to be beneficial for people with LBP and knee OA when delivered in person. As a result, this trial will help to inform health care policy and clinical practice in Australia and beyond for those living in non-urban areas.

Trial registration

This study was prospectively registered on the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12618001494224) registered 09.05.2018.
Analysis of pain markers and epidural fibrosis caused by repeated spinal surgery in Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Quan Meiling , Hwang Won-Ha , Kim Jae-Hoon , Kim Young-Yul
Published: January 2021

Background

Epidural fibrosis is one of the aetiologies of pain following a spinal revision surgery. It is reported that the specific members of the mitogen – activated protein kinases (MAPK) family might mediate neuropathic pain. However, roles of epidural fibrosis caused by repeated spinal surgeries and pain-related proteins in causing the post spinal surgery syndrome remain unknown. Using a rat spinal surgery epidural fibrosis and adhesion model, in this study, we evaluated and investigated the relationship between pain markers and epidural fibrosis.

Methods

Sprague–Dawley rats that underwent the spinal surgery were divided into three groups: group A (single laminectomy), group B (two repeated surgeries) and group C (three repeated surgeries). Dural thickness was measured in each experimental group, and immunohistochemical analysis and western blotting of mitogen-activated protein kinases were performed (ERK, p38 and JNK) using the spine cord.

Results

Dural thickness was 6.363 ± 1.911 μm in group A, 13.238 ± 2.123 μm in group B and 19.4 ± 2.115 μm in group C, respectively. In the western blotting, phosphorylated ERK expression gradually increased with the number of repeated surgeries, and expression in groups B (1.77-fold) and C (2.42-fold) increased as compared to expression in group A. Phosphorylated p38 showed an increasing trend with the number of repeated surgeries, and groups B (1.17-fold) and C (1.33-fold) expression increased compared with group A. However, phosphorylated JNK expression did not gradually increase with the number of repeated surgeries, and groups B (1.62-fold) and C (1.43-fold) expression increased compared with group A. Excluding phosphorylated JNK, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that phosphorylated ERK and p38 expression gradually increased with the number of repeated surgeries in the spine dorsal horn, as evidenced by western blotting.

Conclusions

Repeated spinal surgeries may increase dural thickness and expression of phosphorylated ERK and p38 in the spinal dorsal horn, and it suggests that the neuropathic pain is likely induced by epidural fibrosis and that the pain increases with the number of repeated surgeries.
“What kind of support do I need to be successful as an ethnic minority medical student?” A qualitative study
Authors: Isik Ulviye , Wouters Anouk , Croiset Gerda , Kusurkar Rashmi A.
Published: January 2021

Background

To be in alignment with the increasing diversity in the patient population, ethnic minorities should have appropriate representation in health care professions. Medical students from ethnic minorities therefore need to be successful in their medical studies. The current literature highlights that they underperform in comparison with the ethnic majority. The aim of the present study is to gain insight into what medical students from ethnic minorities experience during their education and what they need to become or stay motivated and to perform to their full potential.

Methods

Medical students from ethnic minorities from year 1 to 6, enrolled at Amsterdam UMC, Faculty of Medicine, Vrije Universiteit, the Netherlands, were invited via email to participate in this study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, using an interview guide, from August–October 2018. A constructivist paradigm was adopted.

Results

Eighteen medical students from ethnic minorities (three from year 1, three from year 2, one from 3, four from year 4, two from year 5, and three from year 6) participated in this study. Students’ negative experiences could be categorized as follows: (1) the effect of discrimination (2) lack of representation of ethnic minority role models, (3) lack of a sense of belonging, (4) lack of a medical network, (5) differences and difficulties in cultural communication and language, and (6) examiner bias in clinical assessments. Examples of support tips relating to these experiences are: increasing awareness about diversity and other religions, providing support groups, having visible ethnic minority role models, and facilitating support in networking.

Conclusions

Findings of this study suggest that medical students from ethnic minorities have negative experiences that influence their education. Supporting these students is essential for creating a good and safe educational and practical environment for ethnic minority students.
Recognizing expressions of thriving among persons living in nursing homes: a qualitative study
Authors: Baxter Rebecca , Sandman Per-Olof , Björk Sabine , Sköldunger Anders , Edvardsson David
Published: January 2021

Background

Thriving has emerged as a contemporary and health-promoting concept for older people living in nursing homes; however, there has been limited research to explore how nursing home staff identify thriving in their everyday practice. The aim of this study was to explore how staff recognize expressions of thriving among persons living in nursing homes.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 nurses working at a nursing home in Victoria, Australia. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

The analysis resulted in six sub-categories and three main categories. Expressions of thriving were recognized in relation to how staff understood thriving, observed thriving and sensed thriving. Staff described comparing and contrasting clinical assessment indicators with their own personal and professional understandings of thriving, as well as their overall sense of the individual person within the wider situational and environmental context.

Conclusions

Our results illuminate how staff recognize everyday expressions of thriving for people living in nursing homes and emphasizes the importance of utilizing person-centred care principles in clinical assessments. These findings have practical implications with regards to how thriving is identified and assessed in long-term care, and could be used to inform and guide staff education, person-centred care strategies, and organizational policies to better support and promote thriving in nursing homes.
3-Dimensional printing in rehabilitation: feasibility of printing an upper extremity gross motor function assessment tool
Authors: Kapadia Naaz , Myers Mathew , Musselman Kristin , Wang Rosalie H. , Yurkewich Aaron , Popovic Milos R.
Published: January 2021

Background

Use of standardized and scientifically sound outcome measures is encouraged in clinical practice and research. With the development of newer rehabilitation therapies, we need technology-supported upper extremity outcome measures that are easily accessible, reliable and valid. 3‐Dimensional printing (3D-printing) has recently seen a meteoric rise in interest within medicine including the field of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of designing and constructing a 3D printed version of the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-Hand Function Test (TRI-HFT). The TRI-HFT is an upper extremity gross motor function assessment tool that measures function at the intersection of the International Classification of Function’s body structure and function, and activity domain. The secondary objective was to assess the preliminary psychometrics of this test in individuals with stroke.

Results

3D design files were created using the measurements of the original TRI-HFT objects. The 3D printed objects were then compared to the original test objects to ensure that the original dimensions were preserved. All objects were successfully printed except the sponge and paper which required some modification. The error margin for weight of the objects was within 10% of the original TRI-HFT for the rest of the objects. Nine participants underwent the following assessments: the Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory (CAHAI), Fugl Meyer Assessment-Hand (FMA-Hand), Chedoke McMaster stages of recovery of the arm (CMSA-Arm) and Chedoke McMaster stages of recovery of the hand (CMSA-Hand) and the 3D TRI-HFT for assessment of psychometric properties of the test. The video recorded assessment of the 3D TRI-HFT was used for reliability testing. Construct validity was assessed by comparing the scores on 3D TRI-HFT with the scores on CAHAI, CMSA-Arm, CMSA-Hand and FMA-Hand. The 3D TRI-HFT had high inter-rater reliability (Intra-Class Correlation Co-efficient (ICC) of 0.99;P < 0.000), high intra-rater reliability (ICC of 0.99;P < 0.000) and moderate-to-strong correlation with the CMSA-Arm, CMSA-Hand and FMA-Hand scores.

Conclusions

The TRI-HFT could be successfully 3D printed and initial testing indicates that the test is a reliable and valid measure of upper extremity motor function in individuals with stroke.
Bone marrow infiltrated natural killer cells predicted the anti-leukemia activity of MCL1 or BCL2 inhibitors in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Dai Yu-Jun , He Si-Yuan , Hu Fang , Li Xue-Ping , Zhang Jian-Ming , Chen Si-Liang , Zhang Wei-Na , Sun Hai-Min , Wang Da-Wei
Published: January 2021

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is still incurable due to its heterogeneity and complexity of tumor microenvironment. It is imperative therefore to understand the molecular pathogenesis of AML and identify leukemia-associated biomarkers to formulate effective treatment strategies. Here, we systematically analyzed the clinical characters and natural killer (NK) cells portion in seventy newly-diagnosis (ND) AML patients. We found that the proportion of NK cells in the bone marrow of ND-AML patients could predict the prognosis of patients by analyzing the types and expression abundance of NK related ligands in tumor cells. Furthermore, MCL1 inhibitor but not BCL2 inhibitor combined with NK cell-based immunotherapy could effectively improve the therapeutic efficiency via inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis of AML primary cells as well as cell lines in vitro. There results provide valuable insights that could help for exploring new therapeutic strategies for leukemia treatment.
Analysis of personal and national factors that influence depression in individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic: a web-based cross-sectional survey
Authors: Lee Ji Ho , Lee Hocheol , Kim Ji Eon , Moon Seok Jun , Nam Eun Woo
Published: January 2021

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared coronavirus disease (COVID-19) a pandemic on March 11, 2020. Previous studies of infectious diseases showed that infectious diseases not only cause physical damage to infected individuals but also damage to the mental health of the public. Therefore this study aims to analyze the factors that affected depression in the public during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide evidence for COVID-19-related mental health policies and to emphasize the need to prepare for mental health issues related to potential infectious disease outbreaks in the future.

Results

This study performed the following statistical analyses to analyze the factors that influence depression in the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. First, to confirm the level of depression in the public in each country, the participants’ depression was plotted on a Boxplot graph for analysis. Second, to confirm personal and national factors that influence depression in individuals, a multi-level analysis was conducted. As a result, the median Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) score for all participants was 6. The median was higher than the overall median for the Philippines, Indonesia, and Paraguay, suggesting a higher level of depression. In personal variables, depression was higher in females than in males, and higher in participants who had experienced discrimination due to COVID-19 than those who had not. In contrast, depression was lower in older participants, those with good subjective health, and those who practiced personal hygiene for prevention. In national variables, depression was higher when the Government Response Stringency Index score was higher, when life expectancy was higher, and when social capital was higher. In contrast, depression was lower when literacy rates were higher.

Conclusions

Our study reveals that depression was higher in participants living in countries with higher stringency index scores than in participants living in other countries. Maintaining a high level of vigilance for safety cannot be criticized. However, in the current situation, where coexisting with COVID-19 has become inevitable, inflexible and stringent policies not only increase depression in the public, but may also decrease resilience to COVID-19 and compromise preparations for coexistence with COVID-19. Accordingly, when establishing policies such as social distancing and quarantine, each country should consider the context of their own country.
Accelerated versus standard initiation of renal replacement therapy for critically ill patients with acute kidney injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCT studies
Authors: Pan Heng-Chih , Chen Ying-Ying , Tsai I-Jung , Shiao Chih-Chung , Huang Tao-Min , Chan Chieh-Kai , Liao Hung-Wei , Lai Tai-Shuan , Chueh Yvonne , Wu Vin-Cent , Chen Yung-Ming
Published: January 2021

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common yet possibly fatal complication among critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICU). Although renal replacement therapy (RRT) is an important supportive management for severe AKI patients, the optimal timing of RRT initiation for these patients is still unclear.

Methods

In this systematic review, we searched all relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that directly compared accelerated with standard initiation of RRT from PUBMED, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cnki.net published prior to July, 20, 2020. We extracted study characteristics and outcomes of being free of dialysis, dialysis dependence and mortality. We rated the certainty of evidence according to Cochrane methods and the GRADE approach.

Results

We identified 56 published relevant studies from 1071 screened abstracts. Ten RCTs with 4753 critically ill AKI patients in intensive care unit (ICU) were included in this meta-analysis. In our study, accelerated and standard RRT group were not associated with all-cause mortality (log odds-ratio [OR]: − 0.04, 95% confidence intervals [CI] − 0.16 to 0.07, p = 0.46) and free of dialysis (log OR: − 0.03, 95% CI − 0.14 to 0.09, p = 0.65). In the subgroup analyses, accelerated RRT group was significantly associated with lower risk of all-cause mortality in the surgical ICU and for those who received continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). In addition, patients in these two subgroups had higher chances of being eventually dialysis-free. However, accelerated initiation of RRT augmented the risk of dialysis dependence in the subgroups of patients treated with non-CRRT modality and whose Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score were more than 11.

Conclusions

In this meta-analysis, critically ill patients with severe AKI would benefit from accelerated RRT initiation regarding all-cause mortality and being eventually free of dialysis only if they were surgical ICU patients or if they underwent CRRT treatment. However, the risk of dialysis dependence was increased in the accelerated RRT group when those patients used non-CRRT modality or had high SOFA scores. All the literatures reviewed in this study were highly heterogeneous and potentially subject to biases.

Trial registration CRD42020201466, Sep 07, 2020. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=201466.
An epidemic model integrating direct and fomite transmission as well as household structure applied to COVID-19
Authors: Wijaya Karunia Putra , Ganegoda Naleen , Jayathunga Yashika , Götz Thomas , Schäfer Moritz , Heidrich Peter
Published: January 2021

This paper stresses its base contribution on a new SIR-type model including direct and fomite transmission as well as the effect of distinct household structures. The model derivation is modulated by several mechanistic processes inherent from typical airborne diseases. The notion of minimum contact radius is included in the direct transmission, facilitating the arguments on physical distancing. As fomite transmission heavily relates to former-trace of sneezes, the vector field of the system naturally contains an integral kernel with time delay indicating the contribution of undetected and non-quarantined asymptomatic cases in accumulating the historical contamination of surfaces. We then increase the complexity by including the different transmission routines within and between households. For airborne diseases, within-household interactions play a significant role in the propagation of the disease rendering countrywide effect. Two steps were taken to include the effect of household structure. The first step subdivides the entire compartments (susceptible, exposed, asymptomatic, symptomatic, recovered, death) into the household level and different infection rates for the direct transmission within and between households were distinguished. Under predefined conditions and assumptions, the governing system on household level can be raised to the community level. The second step then raises the governing system to the country level, where the final state variables estimate the total individuals from all compartments in the country. Two key attributes related to the household structure (number of local households and number of household members) effectively classify countries to be of low or high risk in terms of effective disease propagation. The basic reproductive number is calculated and its biological meaning is invoked properly. The numerical methods for solving the DIDE-system and the parameter estimation problem were mentioned. Our optimal model solutions are in quite good agreement with datasets of COVID-19 active cases and related deaths from Germany and Sri Lanka in early infection, allowing us to hypothesize several unobservable situations in the two countries. Focusing on extending minimum contact radius and reducing the intensity of individual activities, we were able to synthesize the key parameters telling what to practice.
Adapting the Israeli national health insurance law to the 21st century– a report from the 19th Dead Sea Conference
Authors: Angel Yoel , Niv-Yagoda Adi , Gamzu Ronni
Published: January 2021

Passage of the National Health Insurance Law (NHIL) in 1995 marked a turning point in the history of the Israeli healthcare system, ensuring sustainable, high-quality medical care to all eligible Israeli residents. Over 100 amendments have been made to the law over the years, yet additional adaptations are required to ensure the law’s relevance in years to come. In honor of the 25th anniversary of the passage of the law, the 19th annual Dead Sea Conference brought together prominent figures in the Israeli healthcare system for a discussion on “25 Years to the NHIL: Suggested Changes and Adaptations”. Key topics discussed in the conference were regulatory aspects related to the healthcare system, administration of medical services, and financial aspects pertinent to the NHIL. The following meeting report summarizes the insights and recommendations from this conference.
The effects of a limited infusion rate of fluid in the early resuscitation of sepsis on glycocalyx shedding measured by plasma syndecan-1: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Saoraya Jutamas , Wongsamita Lipda , Srisawat Nattachai , Musikatavorn Khrongwong
Published: January 2021

Background

Aggressive fluid administration is recommended in the resuscitation of septic patients. However, the delivery of a rapid fluid bolus might cause harm by inducing degradation of the endothelial glycocalyx. This research aimed to examine the effects of the limited infusion rate of fluid on glycocalyx shedding as measured by syndecan-1 in patients with sepsis-induced hypoperfusion.

Methods

A prospective, randomized, controlled, open-label trial was conducted between November 2018 and February 2020 in an urban academic emergency department. Patients with sepsis-induced hypoperfusion, defined as hypotension or hyperlactatemia, were randomized to receive either the standard rate (30 ml/kg/h) or limited rate (10 ml/kg/h) of fluid for the first 30 ml/kg fluid resuscitation. Subsequently, the fluid rate was adjusted according to the physician’s discretion but not more than that of the designated fluid rate for the total of 6 h. The primary outcome was differences in change of syndecan-1 levels at 6 h compared to baseline between standard and limited rate groups. Secondary outcomes included adverse events, organ failure, and 90-day mortality.

Results

We included 96 patients in the intention-to-treat analysis, with 48 assigned to the standard-rate strategy and 48 to the limited-rate strategy. The median fluid volume in 6 h in the limited-rate group was 39 ml/kg (interquartile range [IQR] 35–52 ml/kg) vs. 53 ml/kg (IQR 46–64 ml/kg) in the standard-rate group (p < 0.001). Patients in the limited-rate group were less likely to received vasopressors (17% vs 42%; p = 0.007) and mechanical ventilation (20% vs 41%; p = 0.049) during the first 6 h. There were no significantly different changes in syndecan-1 levels at 6 h between the two groups (geometric mean ratio [GMR] in the limited-rate group, 0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.66–1.02; p = 0.07). There were no significant differences in adverse events, organ failure outcomes, or mortality between the two groups.

Conclusions

In sepsis resuscitation, the limited rate of fluid resuscitation compared to the standard rate did not significantly reduce changes in syndecan-1 at 6 h.

Trial registration

Thai Clinical Trials Registry number: TCTR20181010001. Registered 8 October 2018, http://www.clinicaltrials.in.th/index.php?tp=regtrials&menu=trialsearch&smenu=fulltext&task=search&task2=view1&id=4064
Applications of soft computing models for predicting sea surface temperature: a comprehensive review and assessment
Authors: Haghbin Masoud , Sharafati Ahmad , Motta Davide , Al-Ansari Nadhir , Noghani Mohamadreza Hosseinian Moghadam
Published: January 2021

The application of soft computing (SC) models for predicting environmental variables is widely gaining popularity, because of their capability to describe complex non-linear processes. The sea surface temperature (SST) is a key quantity in the analysis of sea and ocean systems, due to its relation with water quality, organisms, and hydrological events such as droughts and floods. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the SC model applications for estimating SST over the last two decades. Types of model (based on artificial neural networks, fuzzy logic, or other SC techniques), input variables, data sources, and performance indices are discussed. Existing trends of research in this field are identified, and possible directions for future investigation are suggested.
Vineyards, but not cities, are associated with lower presence of a generalist bird, the Common Blackbird (Turdus merula), in Western France
Authors: Mohring Bertille , Brischoux François , Angelier Frédéric
Published: January 2021

Background

Land-use change is one of the main drivers of the global erosion of biodiversity. In that context, it is crucial to understand how landscape characteristics drive the presence of rare endangered species. Nevertheless, it is also important to study common species in multiple habitats, because they represent a large proportion of biodiversity and are essential to maintain ecological functions. Interestingly, some habitats, as farmlands with permanent crops (e.g. vineyards), have been overlooked in the literature.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the distribution of a widespread and common bird species, the Common Blackbird (Turdus merula), within and between the three main habitats of our study area (rural Western France). We specifically focused on (1) woodlands, (2) farmlands with a high vineyard coverage, and (3) moderately urbanized areas. Specifically, we aimed to assess the beneficial and detrimental effects of these habitats and their fine-scale composition on the presence of a common bird species, relying on a survey by point counts (nearly 100 locations). We studied the effects of habitats and gradients of fine-scale habitat composition on blackbird presence using logistic regression analyses.

Results

Blackbirds were present in all studied habitats. However, their presence varied between habitats, being lower in vineyards than in woodlands and cities. In woodlands and cities, fine-scale analyses did not reveal any component driving the species’ presence. However, we found that shrub and tree vegetation cover had a significant positive effect on blackbird presence in vineyards.

Conclusions

Our results are in agreement with the definition of a generalist species. Interestingly, species distribution varied between habitats. The high presence of blackbirds in urban areas suggests that medium-sized cities, despite their artificialization, do not constrain the settlement of this former forest specialist and that green spaces may allow blackbirds to thrive in medium-sized cities. On the contrary, we found an impoverished presence of blackbirds in vineyards and a positive effect of vegetation on their presence in these landscapes. This suggests that permanent crops, and more generally farmlands, may impose important constraints to common species. Future studies should examine how to enhance biodiversity through agricultural management policies, especially in vineyards.
I wear, therefore I am: investigating sneakerhead culture, social identity, and brand preference among men
Authors: Matthews Delisia , Cryer-Coupet Qiana , Degirmencioglu Nimet
Published: January 2021

While the popularity of athletic footwear or “sneakers” has been widely assessed within academic literature, few studies to date have examined the influence of a specific sneaker subculture called “Sneakerheads”. Moreover, the brand preferences and brand identities that may exist within the Sneakerhead subculture have not been extensively examined. To address this gap in the research, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 male, self-identified Sneakerheads. The main goal of the research was to explore the Sneakerhead culture, while gaining an understanding of brand preferences, practices, and group identity factors. The Social Identity Theory was employed as the theoretical framework for this research. Qualitative analysis of the interviews revealed the following three topical areas: (1) Back in the Day, (2) All About the Jumpman, and (3) For Members Only. Findings regarding the unique culture of Sneakerheads indicate a clear sense of group identity as it relates to motivations, behaviors, and brand identity within the Sneakerhead community. Moreover, the findings of this study further define the lifestyle of a Sneakerhead and shed light on their unique behaviors and practices within the culture.
Impact of air temperature and drug concentration on liquid emission from elastomeric pumps
Authors: Abe Tomoya , Matsuzaka Kazumasa , Nakayama Toshiaki , Otsuka Masanobu , Sagara Atsunobu , Sato Fumiaki , Yumoto Tetsuro
Published: January 2021

Background

Elastomeric pumps (EPs) are devices that allow quantitative and continuous drug administration without the need for electronic control, and they are used by being filled with anticancer agents. Although the package inserts of several manufacturers that provide EPs describe the relationship between the flow rate per unit time and temperature, the solution is only saline solution or 5% glucose solution, and data on anticancer drugs have not been published. In this study, we focused on 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), a drug frequently used in cancer chemotherapy, and examined the effect of changes in standard of EPs and temperature on drug emission.

Methods

We evaluated the EP data of patients treated with Baxter Infusor® LV5 and SV2.5 in terms of emission rate, relationship between 5-FU prescription amount and emission rate, and relationship between emission rate and monthly air temperature in LV5 and SV2.5. The number of EPs sampled in the study was N = 5708 (n = 2988 for LV5 and n = 2720 for SV2.5).

Results

In LV5, the emission rate varied from 88 to 97% (median 94.0%), whereas in SV2.5, the emission rate was observed as 97 to 98% (median 97.4%). The 5-FU prescription amount and the emission rate were not correlated in LV5 and SV2.5, respectively (LV5; y = − 0.0015x + 97.305, R2 = 0.0226, SV2.5; y = − 0.001x + 100.25, R2 = 0.0466). LV5 showed a higher emission rate in the months with higher air temperature and a lower emission rate in the month with lower air temperature. In addition, LV5 showed a significant reduction in emission rate compared with SV2.5 in all months (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In this study, we clarified that air temperature is an important factor that affects the drug emission of EPs. Therefore, it is necessary to examine the conditions for total fluid volume suitable for the air temperature in each region and to provide sufficient information to patients.
Surgical treatment for breast cancer in a patient with erythropoietic protoporphyria and photosensitivity: a case report
Authors: Shimazaki Akiko , Hashimoto Takuma , Kai Masaya , Nakayama Tetsuzo , Yamada Mai , Zaguirre Karen , Tokuda Kentaro , Kubo Makoto , Yamaura Ken , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: January 2021

Background

Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare disorder of heme synthesis. Patients with EPP mainly show symptoms of photosensitivity, but approximately 20% of EPPs are associated with the liver-related complications. We report a case of breast cancer in a 48-year-old female patient with EPP in whom meticulous perioperative management was required in order to avoid complications resulting from this disease.

Case presentation

The patient was diagnosed with EPP at the age of 33 and had a rich family history of the disease. For right breast cancer initially considered as TisN0M0 (Stage 0), the right mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy were performed, while the final stage was pT1bN0M0, pStage I. In the perioperative period, we limited the drug use and monitored light wavelength measurements. Besides, we covered surgical lights, headlights, and laryngoscope’s light with a special polyimide film that filtered the wavelength of light causing dermal photosensitivity. After the surgery, any emerging complications were closely monitored.

Conclusions

The surgery, internal medicine, anesthesiology, and operation departments undertook all possible measures through close cooperation to ensure a safe surgery for the patient with a rare condition.