bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Communication Should do no Harm: Weight and Diabetes Stigma in Online Health Content
Authors: Lonzer Jennifer L , Knapp Shannon , Frey Chelsea , Bakuniene-Milanowski Ann , Rohr Brittney , Assad Mary K , Griebeler Marcio L , Heinberg Leslie
Published: May 2023

Stigmatizing language in online health communication negatively impacts patient experience and health outcomes. Journals, medical associations, and patient groups have affirmed the use of person-centered language; however, those changes have not been applied broadly to health systems’ patient-facing materials. Health communicators and providers can work together to develop medically accurate, person-centered content that avoids stigmatizing people, improves self-management of personal health, and enhances the online patient experience.
Stand by Me: Social Ties and Health in Real Time
Authors: Goldman Alyssa W. , York Cornwell Erin
Published: May 2023

Sociological research has documented myriad associations between individuals’ overall social connectedness and health but rarely considers the shorter-term dynamics of social life that may underlie these associations. The authors examine how being with others (“social accompaniment”) is associated with momentary experiences of symptoms, drawing smartphone-based ecological momentary assessments ( n = 12,760) collected from 342 older adults from the Chicago Health and Activity Space in Real-Time study. The authors find that patterns of social accompaniment are distinct from global measures of social integration such as network size. Older adults who are in the company of friends or neighbors are significantly less likely to experience momentary fatigue and stress, even after accounting for global measures of social integration. These results suggest that social accompaniment has unique implications for short-term health outcomes. New theoretical perspectives and empirical analyses are needed to better understand the dynamic nature of everyday social accompaniment and its longer-term implications for well-being.
Territorial dynamics in organizing resistance: The assistants’ solidarity movement in two universities
Authors: Güneştepe Kutay , Tunçalp Deniz
Published: May 2023

How do social movements develop and sustain their territoriality within large-scale organisations? This study explores the emergence of resistive movements in organisations counteracting a new administrative regime with a relational approach to territoriality in the physical and virtual environments. Drawing, maintaining, and changing boundaries in physical and virtual spaces are crucial in organisational resistance. However, the extant literature mostly overlooks these topics. This paper shows how collective actors form a resistive movement in organisations through territoriality with a qualitative study conducted in two Turkish Universities. The study findings show territoriality provides more than a space of isolation and this space has no fixed resistive boundaries. Territorialisation within and out of organisational spaces, covering physical and virtual environments, supports the development of a resistive identity. Our comparative analysis of two movements in universities shows that territoriality in the physical world is essential. However, territorialisation in the virtual environment helps resistive identities in organisations to last even their physical activities fade. Moreover, territorialisation in physical and virtual spaces communicating the movement’s message to mobilise others varies according to the different stages of the movement’s lifespan. In addition, this study indicates how the activities of social movements of organisational actors in physical and virtual environments interrelate.
Carbon Footprint and Water Footprint Assessment of Down Jackets
Authors: Zhou Yue , Bao Wei , Yan Fangying , Zhang Ying , Wang Laili
Published: May 2023

Down jackets consume a lot of energy and water, and emit greenhouse gases, wastewater and other pollutants during the life cycle. For example, melt spinning polyester fibre production, spinning, weaving, fabric dyeing and finishing are high-energy consumption processes. Down processing, fabric dyeing and finishing are typical water consumption and wastewater pollutant discharge processes. Carbon and water footprints are practical tools for evaluating the environmental impact of a product in its life cycle. This article quantified and evaluated the carbon and water footprints of the life cycle of 100 down jackets – from raw material production to recycling and disposal without transportation activities. The results showed that the carbon footprint of the 100 down jackets production was 2544.1 kgCO2e with recycling. As for the water footprint, it showed that fabric production had a great impact on water eutrophication and water scarcity. The water scarcity footprint of 100 down jackets production was 27.46 m3H2Ot, respectively. The water eutrophication footprint generated by producing 100 down jackets in new industry was 1.91 kgPO43−eq. The comprehensive assessment of carbon footprint and water footprint with the life cycle assessment polygon method indicated that the raw material production phase of down jackets generated a more significant impact on the environment than the use phase. The impact on the environment during the use phase is primarily the environmental load on water resources.
A Qualitative Examination of the Preferred Language for Patients Discussing Genital Psoriasis With the Physician
Authors: Moumen Mohammed , Zaino Mallory L. , Salisbury Katherine R. , Pichardo Rita O. , Feldman Steven R.
Published: May 2023

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that may affect the genitalia in up to 60% of patients. This is a significant concern to patients; however, they may be too embarrassed to report genital involvement or seek help for it spontaneously. Information on preferred language that would put patients more at ease discussing disease in sensitive areas is lacking.

Objective

To address language as a barrier to care in patients with psoriasis by identifying preferred terminology when discussing genital involvement of the disease with physicians.

Methods

A qualitative study was performed that consisted of one-on-one interviews with patients with psoriasis; thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results

Themes included (1) personal experience with genital psoriasis; (2) timespan between genital psoriasis symptom onset and diagnosis; (3) patient–provider communication; (4) patient–provider preference, and (5) patient terminology preference.

Conclusion

Our study highlights providers’ failure to ask psoriasis patients about genital involvement of the disease and variation in patient response on preferred language when discussing sensitive topics. Dermatologists may need to be cognizant of the patient’s comfort level using verbal and nonverbal communication and tailor their approach to the individual.
Management of bloodborne pathogen exposures in primary care: A quality improvement project
Authors: Hewitt Sarah E. , Southard Erik P.
Published: May 2023

Background

Exposure to bloodborne pathogens poses a serious risk to healthcare workers. As more primary care providers are being asked to perform occupational health services, the evaluation and treatment of bloodborne pathogen (BBP) exposures can be overwhelming. Lack of knowledge about how to handle these encounters can lead to poor outcomes, including conversion to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus if not handled properly. To assist providers with understanding best practices for the management of exposures, a detailed protocol and targeted education were developed. The protocol addressed the importance of evaluating the source patient for HIV, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus; injured workers were assessed for the same items, tetanus status, and the need for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

Methods

A retrospective chart review for 12 months before the implementation of the protocol and eight months after implementation was completed to assess compliance with five evidence-based criteria and the appropriate use of PEP when indicated.

Findings

Variables of interest included (a) correct identification of the source patient, (b) accuracy of source patient labs, (c) completion of same-day employee labs, (d) accuracy of employee labs, and (e) evaluation of the employee's tetanus status. The rate of completion of these categories ranged from 14% to 43% in pre-protocol cases ( n = 7), and 100% in post-protocol cases ( n = 7).

Conclusions

The combination of targeted education and a detailed protocol for evaluating and treating BBP exposures resulted in increased compliance with best-practice care; the project also improved employee satisfaction.
‘Heart of Incredible India’: Promoting Madhya Pradesh as a Destination Brand
Authors: Kour Gurpreet
Published: May 2023

The case study explores Madhya Pradesh Tourism’s promotional strategy aimed at attracting domestic tourists. The major challenge was to come up with a unique selling proposition for a destination that lacked the allure of popular tourist hotspots like Goa and Kerala in India. Madhya Pradesh Tourism faced the obstacle of not having a distinctive feature. This case study demonstrates how Madhya Pradesh Tourism successfully positioned itself as a family entertainment as a proposition to boost tourism. It serves as an excellent example for analysing the development process of a state’s tourism campaign and highlights the hurdles of strategic communication in different stages of the campaign. Additionally, it offers a reference point and context for communication objectives in a competitive tourism industry.
Neuropeptide Y in the medial habenula alleviates migraine-like behaviors through the Y1 receptor
Authors: Yang Chunxiao , Gong Zihua , Zhang Xiaochen , Miao Shuai , Li Bozhi , Xie Wei , Wang Tao , Han Xun , Wang Liang , Dong Zhao , Yu Shengyuan
Published: May 2023

Background

Migraine is a highly disabling health burden with multiple symptoms; however, it remains undertreated because of an inadequate understanding of its neural mechanisms. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) has been demonstrated to be involved in the modulation of pain and emotion, and may play a role in migraine pathophysiology. Changes in NPY levels have been found in patients with migraine, but whether and how these changes contribute to migraine is unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the role of NPY in migraine-like phenotypes.

Methods

Here, we used intraperitoneal injection of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN, 10 mg/kg) as a migraine mouse model, which was verified by light-aversive test, von Frey test, and elevated plus maze test. We then performed whole-brain imaging with NPY-GFP mice to explore the critical regions where NPY was changed by GTN treatment. Next, we microinjected NPY into the medial habenula (MHb), and further infused Y1 or Y2 receptor agonists into the MHb, respectively, to detect the effects of NPY in GTN-induced migraine-like behaviors.

Results

GTN effectively triggered allodynia, photophobia, and anxiety-like behaviors in mice. After that, we found a decreased level of GFP+ cells in the MHb of GTN-treated mice. Microinjection of NPY attenuated GTN-induced allodynia and anxiety without affecting photophobia. Furthermore, we found that activation of Y1—but not Y2—receptors attenuated GTN-induced allodynia and anxiety.

Conclusions

Taken together, our data support that the NPY signaling in the MHb produces analgesic and anxiolytic effects through the Y1 receptor. These findings may provide new insights into novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of migraine.

Graphical Abstract
2018–2019 field seasons of the Maize Genomes to Fields (G2F) G x E project
Authors: Lima Dayane Cristina , Aviles Alejandro Castro , Alpers Ryan Timothy , McFarland Bridget A. , Kaeppler Shawn , Ertl David , Romay Maria Cinta , Gage Joseph L. , Holland James , Beissinger Timothy , Bohn Martin , Buckler Edward , Edwards Jode , Flint-Garcia Sherry , Hirsch Candice N. , Hood Elizabeth , Hooker David C. , Knoll Joseph E. , Kolkman Judith M. , Liu Sanzhen , McKay John , Minyo Richard , Moreta Danilo E. , Murray Seth C. , Nelson Rebecca , Schnable James C. , Sekhon Rajandeep S. , Singh Maninder P. , Thomison Peter , Thompson Addie , Tuinstra Mitchell , Wallace Jason , Washburn Jacob D. , Weldekidan Teclemariam , Wisser Randall J. , Xu Wenwei , de Leon Natalia
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This report provides information about the public release of the 2018–2019 Maize G X E project of the Genomes to Fields (G2F) Initiative datasets. G2F is an umbrella initiative that evaluates maize hybrids and inbred lines across multiple environments and makes available phenotypic, genotypic, environmental, and metadata information. The initiative understands the necessity to characterize and deploy public sources of genetic diversity to face the challenges for more sustainable agriculture in the context of variable environmental conditions.

Data description

Datasets include phenotypic, climatic, and soil measurements, metadata information, and inbred genotypic information for each combination of location and year. Collaborators in the G2F initiative collected data for each location and year; members of the group responsible for coordination and data processing combined all the collected information and removed obvious erroneous data. The collaborators received the data before the DOI release to verify and declare that the data generated in their own locations was accurate. ReadMe and description files are available for each dataset. Previous years of evaluation are already publicly available, with common hybrids present to connect across all locations and years evaluated since this project’s inception.
Functional properties of lactic acid bacteria isolated from Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in Ivory Coast
Authors: Coulibaly Wahauwouélé Hermann , Kouadio N’goran Richard , Camara Fatoumata , Diguță Camelia , Matei Florentina
Published: May 2023

Background

Probiotics have recently been applied in aquaculture as eco-friendly alternatives to antibiotics to improve fish health, simultaneously with the increase of production parameters. The present study aimed to investigate the functional potential of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from the gut of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) originating from the aquaculture farm of Oceanologic Research Center in Ivory Coast.

Results

Twelve LAB strains were identified by 16 S rDNA gene sequence homology analysis belonging to two genera Pediococcus (P. acidilactici and P. pentosaceus) and Lactobacillus (L. plantarum) with a predominance of P. acidilactici. Several aspects including functional, storage, and safety characteristics were taken into consideration in the selection process of the native LAB isolates as potential probiotics. All LAB isolates showed high antagonistic activity against bacterial pathogens like Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, and Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, the LAB isolates exhibited different degrees of cell surface hydrophobicity in the presence of hexane, xylene, and chloroform as solvents and a good ability to form biofilm. The strong antioxidant activity expressed through the DPPH scavenging capacity of LAB intact cells and their cell-free supernatants was detected. LAB strains survived between 34.18% and 49.9% when exposed to low pH (1.5) and pepsin for 3 h. In presence of 0.3% bile salts, the growth rate ranged from 0.92 to 21.46%. Antibiotic susceptibility pattern of LAB isolates showed sensitivity or intermediate resistance to amoxicillin, cephalothin, chloramphenicol, imipenem, kanamycin, penicillin, rifampicin, streptomycin, tetracycline and resistance to oxacillin, gentamicin, and ciprofloxacin. No significant difference in antibiotic susceptibility pattern was observed between P. acidilactici and P. pentosaceus strains. The non-hemolytic activity was detected. Following the analysis of the enzyme profile, the ability of LAB isolates to produce either lipase or β-galactosidase or both enzymes was highlighted. Furthermore, the efficacy of cryoprotective agents was proved to be isolate-dependent, with LAB isolates having a high affinity for D-sorbitol and sucrose.

Conclusion

The explored LAB strains inhibited the growth of pathogens and survived after exposure to simulated gastrointestinal tract conditions. The safety and preservative properties are desirable attributes of these new probiotic strains hence recommended for future food and feed applications.
Diversity and correlation analysis of endophytes and metabolites of Panax quinquefolius L. in various tissues
Authors: Li Rui , Duan Wanying , Ran Zhifang , Chen Xiaoli , Yu Hongxia , Fang Lei , Guo Lanping , Zhou Jie
Published: May 2023

Background

Panax quinquefolius L. (American ginseng) is widely used in medicine due to its wealth of diverse pharmacological effects. Endophytes colonize within P. quinquefolius in multiple tissue types. However, the relationship between endophytes and the production of their active ingredients in different parts of the plant is not clear.

Results

In this study, the relationship of endophytic diversity and the metabolites produced in different plant tissues of P. quinquefolius were analyzed using metagenomic and metabolomic approaches. The results showed relatively similar endophyte composition in roots and fibrils, but obvious differences between endophyte populations in stems and leaves. Species abundance analysis showed that at the phylum level, the dominant bacterial phylum was Cyanobacteria for roots, fibrils, stems and leaves, Ascomycota forroots and fibrils roots, and Basidiomycota for stems and leaves. LC-MS/MS technology was used to quantitatively analyze the metabolites in different tissues of P. quinquefolius. A total of 398 metabolites and 294 differential metaboliteswere identified, mainly organic acids, sugars, amino acids, polyphenols, and saponins. Most of the differential metabolites were enriched in metabolic pathways such as phenylpropane biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis, citric acid cycle, and amino acid biosynthesis. Correlation analysis showed a positive and negative correlation between the endophytes and the differential metabolites. Conexibacter significantly enriched in root and fibril was significantly positively correlated with saponin differential metabolites, while cyberlindnera significantly enriched in stem and leaf was significantly negatively correlated with differential metabolites (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The endophytic communities diversity were relatively similar in the roots and fibrils of P. quinquefolius, while there were greater differences between the stems and leaves. There was significant difference in metabolite content between different tissues of P. quinquefolius. Correlation analysis methods demonstrated a correlation between endophytes and differential metabolism.
Prediction model of in-hospital mortality in intensive care unit patients with cardiac arrest: a retrospective analysis of MIMIC -IV database based on machine learning
Authors: Sun Yiwu , He Zhaoyi , Ren Jie , Wu Yifan
Published: May 2023

Background

Both in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) have higher incidence and lower survival rates. Predictors of in-hospital mortality for intensive care unit (ICU) admitted cardiac arrest (CA) patients remain unclear.

Methods

The Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database was used to perform a retrospective study. Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were identified from the MIMIC-IV database and randomly divided into training set (n = 1206, 70%) and validation set (n = 516, 30%). Candidate predictors consisted of the demographics, comorbidity, vital signs, laboratory test results, scoring systems, and treatment information on the first day of ICU admission. Independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality were screened using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model and the extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) in the training set. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to build prediction models in training set, and then validated in validation set. Discrimination, calibration and clinical utility of these models were compared using the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves and decision curve analysis (DCA). After pairwise comparison, the best performing model was chosen to build a nomogram.

Results

Among the 1722 patients, in-hospital mortality was 53.95%. In both sets, the LASSO, XGBoost,the logistic regression(LR) model and the National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS 2) models showed acceptable discrimination. In pairwise comparison, the prediction effectiveness was higher with the LASSO,XGBoost and LR models than the NEWS 2 model (p < 0.001). The LASSO,XGBoost and LR models also showed good calibration. The LASSO model was chosen as our final model for its higher net benefit and wider threshold range. And the LASSO model was presented as the nomogram.

Conclusions

The LASSO model enabled good prediction of in-hospital mortality in ICU admission CA patients, which may be widely used in clinical decision-making.
Tissue oxygen saturation is predictive of lactate clearance in patients with circulatory shock
Authors: Chen Yan , Peng Jin-min , Hu Xiao-yun , Li Shan , Wan Xi-xi , Liu Rui-ting , Wang Chun-yao , Jiang Wei , Dong Run , Su Long-xiang , He Huai-wu , Long Yun , Weng Li , Du Bin
Published: May 2023

Background

Tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) decrease could appear earlier than lactate alteration. However, the correlation between StO2 and lactate clearance was unknown.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study. All consecutive patients with circulatory shock and lactate over 3 mmol/L were included. Based on the rule of nines, a BSA (body surface area) weighted StO2 was calculated from four sites of StO2 (masseter, deltoid, thenar and knee). The formulation was as follows: masseter StO2 × 9% + (deltoid StO2 + thenar StO2) × (18% + 27%)/ 2 + knee StO2 × 46%. Vital signs, blood lactate, arterial and central venous blood gas were measured simultaneously within 48 h of ICU admission. The predictive value of BSA-weighted StO2 on 6-hour lactate clearance > 10% since StO2 initially monitored was assessed.

Results

A total of 34 patients were included, of whom 19 (55.9%) had a lactate clearance higher than 10%. The mean SOFA score was lower in cLac ≥ 10% group compared with cLac < 10% group (11 ± 3 vs. 15 ± 4, p = 0.007). Other baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. Compared to non-clearance group, StO2 in deltoid, thenar and knee were significantly higher in clearance group. The area under the receiver operating curves (AUROC) of BSA-weighted StO2 for prediction of lactate clearance (0.92, 95% CI [Confidence Interval] 0.82-1.00) was significantly higher than StO2 of masseter (0.65, 95% CI 0.45–0.84; p < 0.01), deltoid (0.77, 95% CI 0.60–0.94; p = 0.04), thenar (0.72, 95% CI 0.55–0.90; p = 0.01), and similar to knee (0.87, 0.73-1.00; p = 0.40), mean StO2 (0.85, 0.73–0.98; p = 0.09). Additionally, BSA-weighted StO2 model had continuous net reclassification improvement (NRI) over the knee StO2 and mean StO2 model (continuous NRI 48.1% and 90.2%, respectively). The AUROC of BSA-weighted StO2 was 0.91(95% CI 0.75-1.0) adjusted by mean arterial pressure and norepinephrine dose.

Conclusions

Our results suggested that BSA-weighted StO2 was a strong predictor of 6-hour lactate clearance in patients with shock.
MetaBayesDTA: codeless Bayesian meta-analysis of test accuracy, with or without a gold standard
Authors: Cerullo Enzo , Sutton Alex J. , Jones Hayley E. , Wu Olivia , Quinn Terry J. , Cooper Nicola J.
Published: May 2023

Background

The statistical models developed for meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy studies require specialised knowledge to implement. This is especially true since recent guidelines, such as those in Version 2 of the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews of Diagnostic Test Accuracy, advocate more sophisticated methods than previously. This paper describes a web-based application - MetaBayesDTA - that makes many advanced analysis methods in this area more accessible.

Results

We created the app using R, the Shiny package and Stan. It allows for a broad array of analyses based on the bivariate model including extensions for subgroup analysis, meta-regression and comparative test accuracy evaluation. It also conducts analyses not assuming a perfect reference standard, including allowing for the use of different reference tests.

Conclusions

Due to its user-friendliness and broad array of features, MetaBayesDTA should appeal to researchers with varying levels of expertise. We anticipate that the application will encourage higher levels of uptake of more advanced methods, which ultimately should improve the quality of test accuracy reviews.
Keeping up with evidence-based recommendations – a qualitative interview study with general practitioners in Germany on information-seeking behaviour in cardiovascular care
Authors: Arnold Christine , Hennrich Patrick , Wensing Michel , Ullrich Charlotte
Published: May 2023

Background

Due to the nature of their work, general practitioners (GPs) need to be up to date with evidence in various medical domains. While much synthesised research evidence is easily accessible nowadays, in practice, the time to search for and review this evidence proposes a challenge. In German primary care, the knowledge infrastructure is rather fragmented, leaving GPs with relatively few primary care specific resources of information and many resources from other medical fields. This study aimed to explore GPs information-seeking behaviour regarding evidence-based recommendations in cardiovascular care in Germany.

Methods

To explore views of GPs a qualitative research design was chosen. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews. In total, 27 telephone interviews with GPs were conducted between June and November 2021.Verbatim transcript interviews were then analysed using thematic analysis, deriving at themes inductively.

Results

Two broad strategies of information-seeking behaviour in GP could be distinguished: (a) generic information-seeking behaviour and (b) casuistic information-seeking. The first referring to strategies GPs apply to keep up with medical developments such as new medication and the second referring to purposeful information exchange regarding individual patients, such as referral letters. The second strategy was also used to keep up with medical developments in general.

Conclusion

In a fragmented information landscape, GPs used information exchange on individual patients to remain informed about medical developments in general. Initiatives to implement recommended practices need to take this into account, either by using these sources of influence or by making GPs aware of possible bias and risks. The findings also emphasize the importance of systematic evidence-based sources of information for GPs.

Trail registration

We registered the study prospectively on 07/11/2019 at the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS, www.drks.de) under ID no. DRKS00019219.
Context of walking and loneliness among community-dwelling older adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mizuta Sachiko , Uchida Kazuaki , Sawa Ryuichi , Nakamura Junya , Encho Haruhi , Akisue Toshihiro , Ono Rei
Published: May 2023

Background

Older adults are more likely to experience loneliness than younger people. Moreover, greater loneliness in older adults is associated with poor mental health and increased risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Physical activity is an effective intervention for reducing loneliness among older adults. Among physical activities, walking is suitable for older adults, because it is easy and safe to incorporate into daily life. We hypothesized that the association between walking and loneliness depends on the presence of others and the number of people present. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between the context of walking (the number of walkers) and loneliness among community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 173 community-dwelling older adults aged 65 or older. Context of walking was classified as non-walking, walking alone (days of walking alone > days of walking with someone), and walking with someone (days of walking alone ≤ days of walking with someone). Loneliness was measured using the Japanese version of the University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale. A linear regression model was used to investigate the relationship between context of walking and loneliness, adjusted for age, sex, living situation, social participation, and physical activity excluding walking.

Results

Data from 171 community-dwelling older adults (mean age = 78.0 years, 59.6% women) were analyzed. After adjustment, walking with someone was associated with lower loneliness than non-walking (adjusted β: -0.51, 95% confidence interval: -1.00, -0.01).

Conclusions

The study’s findings suggest that walking with a companion may effectively prevent or reduce loneliness among older adults.
Experiences of visiting female sex workers, social interaction, support and HIV infection among elderly men from rural China
Authors: Yang Yi , Liang Shu , Fan ShuangFeng , Liu Yang , Li Yuan , Xi Jing , Yuan Dan , Xiao Jie
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To make clear the roles of social interaction and social support in HIV infection among elderly men who visit female sex workers (FSW).

Methods

We conducted a case-control study: 106 newly HIV (+) vs. 87 HIV (-) elderly men who visited FSW with similar age, education levels, marital statuses, monthly expenses for entertainment and migration experiences. Experiences of visiting FSW, social interaction, and intimate social support were obtained. Backward binary logistic regression was applied.

Results

Cases’ first visit to FSW happened at the age of 44.01 ± 12.25, older than controls (33.90 ± 13.43). 23.58% cases had gotten HIV-related health education (HRHE) before, less than controls (57.47%). More cases (48.91%) “always” got material support than controls (34.25%). Less cases gave “close” (38.04%) comments toward daily life, “satisfied” (34.78%) with their sexual life, “agree” being emotional fulfilled (46.74%) than controls (71.23% ,64.38%, and 61.64%). Risky factors for HIV infection among elderly men were having 3000 YUAN and above monthly income, visiting teahouse with friends, living without spouses, visiting different FSW, visiting FSW for other reason, receiving material support from most intimate sexual partner, older age of first visit to FSW. The protective factors were receiving HRHE, visiting FSW due to loneliness, and giving positive comments toward daily life with most intimate sexual partner.

Conclusions

Elderly men’s social interactions are mainly visiting teahouse which is a potential sexual venue. Getting HRHE is formal protective social interactions but very rare for cases (23.58%). Social support from sexual partner is not enough. Emotional support is protective meanwhile material support only is risky for becoming HIV-positive.
Changes in the epidemiology of invasive fungal disease in a Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Unit: the relevance of breakthrough infections
Authors: Calle-Miguel Laura , Garrido-Colino Carmen , Santiago-García Begoña , Moreno Santos Martha Patricia , Gonzalo Pascual Henar , Ponce Salas Beatriz , Beléndez Bieler Cristina , Navarro Gómez Marisa , Guinea Ortega Jesús , Rincón-López Elena María
Published: May 2023

Background

Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is a significant cause of morbimortality in children under chemotherapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). The purpose of this study is to describe the changes in the IFD epidemiology that occurred in a Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit (PHOU) with an increasing activity over time.

Methods

Retrospective revision of the medical records of children (from 6 months to 18 years old) diagnosed with IFD in the PHOU of a tertiary hospital in Madrid (Spain), between 2006 and 2019. IFD definitions were performed according to the EORTC revised criteria. Prevalence, epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic parameters were described. Comparative analyses were conducted using Chi-square, Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests, according to three time periods, the type of infection (yeast vs mold infections) and the outcome.

Results

Twenty-eight episodes of IFD occurred in 27 out of 471 children at risk (50% males; median age of 9.8 years old, [IQR 4.9-15.1]), resulting in an overall global prevalence of 5.9%. Five episodes of candidemia and 23 bronchopulmonary mold diseases were registered. Six (21.4%), eight (28.6%) and 14 (50%) episodes met criteria for proven, probable and possible IFD, respectively. 71.4% of patients had a breakthrough infection, 28.6% required intensive care and 21.4% died during treatment.

Over time, bronchopulmonary mold infections and breakthrough IFD increased (p=0.002 and p=0.012, respectively), occurring in children with more IFD host factors (p=0.028) and high-risk underlying disorders (p=0.012). A 64% increase in the number of admissions in the PHOU (p<0.001) and a 277% increase in the number of HSCT (p=0.008) were not followed by rising rates of mortality or IFD/1000 admissions (p=0.674).

Conclusions

In this study, we found that yeast infections decreased, while mold infections increased over time, being most of them breakthrough infections. These changes are probably related to the rising activity in our PHOU and an increase in the complexity of the baseline pathologies of patients. Fortunately, these facts were not followed by an increase in IFD prevalence or mortality rates.
Cerebral sparganosis in a child with corpus callosum invasion: a case report
Authors: Chen Xiwen , Wu Huiying , Lu Lianwei , Zhou Ning , Chen Zhen , Zhang Xiaochun
Published: May 2023

Background

Invasion of the corpus callosum by sparganosis is rare in children. After invading the corpus callosum, sparganosis has various migration modes, which can break through the ependyma and enter the ventricles, thus causing secondary migratory brain injury.

Case presentation

A girl aged 4 years and 7 months presented with left lower limb paralysis for more than 50 days. Blood examination showed that the proportion and absolute number of eosinophils in the peripheral blood were increased. Furthermore, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of serum and cerebrospinal fluid samples revealed positivity for IgG and IgM antibodies for sparganosis. Initial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed ring-like enhancements in the right frontoparietal cortex, subcortical white matter, and splenium of the corpus callosum. Within 2 months, a fourth follow-up MRI showed that the lesion had spread to the left parietal cortex, subcortical white matter, and deep white matter in the right occipital lobe and right ventricular choroid plexus, with left parietal leptomeningeal enhancement.

Conclusion

Migratory movement is one of the characteristics of cerebral sparganosis. When sparganosis invades the corpus callosum, clinicians should be aware that it may then break through the ependyma and enter the lateral ventricles, leading to secondary migratory brain injury. Short-term follow-up MRI is necessary to evaluate the migration mode of sparganosis and dynamically guide treatment strategies.
Intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke during two COVID-19 outbreaks in China: Wuhan pandemic and Beijing pandemic
Authors: Li Guangshuo , Wang Shang , Wang Chuanying , Hao Yahui , Xiong Yunyun , Ding Zeyu , Zhao Xingquan
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on the emergency department (ED). Door-to-needle time (DNT) could be prolonged for intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) treatment. We aimed to investigate the impact of two COVID-19 pandemics on the workflow of IVT in our neurovascular ED.

Method

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who received IVT treatment in the neurovascular ED of Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, from January 20, 2020, to October 30, 2020, covering two COVID-19 pandemics in China. The time-based performances of IVT treatment including onset-to-arrival time, arrival-to-CT time, CT-to-needle time, door-to-needle time, and onset-to-needle time were recorded. Data on clinical characteristics and imaging information were also collected.

Results

Four hundred forty patients that received IVT were enrolled in this study. The number of patients admitted to our neurovascular ED began to decrease in December 2019 and was the lowest in April 2020 (n = 95). Longer DNT (Wuhan pandemic: 49.00 [35.00, 64.00] min; Beijing pandemic: 55.00 [45.50, 77.00] min) interval delays were observed during the two pandemics (p = .016). More patients admitted during the two pandemics had an ‘unknown’ subtype (Wuhan pandemic: 21.8%; Beijing pandemic: 31.4%. p = .008). The percentage of the cardiac embolism subtype was higher during the Wuhan pandemic (20.0%) than during other periods. The median admission NIHSS score increased during the Wuhan pandemic and the Beijing pandemic (8.00 [4.00, 12.00], 7.00 [4.50, 14.00], respectively, p < .001).

Conclusion

The number of patients who received IVT decreased during the Wuhan pandemic. Higher admission NIHSS scores and prolonged DNT intervals were also observed during the Wuhan pandemic and the Beijing pandemic.
Dose frequency randomized controlled trial for Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC) treatment for childhood apraxia of speech: protocol paper
Authors: Iuzzini-Seigel Jenya , Case Julie , Grigos Maria I. , Velleman Shelley L. , Thomas Donna , Murray Elizabeth
Published: May 2023

Background

Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a pediatric motor-based speech sound disorder that requires a specialized approach to intervention. The extant literature on the treatment of CAS commonly recommends intensive treatment using a motor-based approach, with some of the best evidence supporting the use of Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC). To date, a rigorous and systematic comparison of high and low dose frequency (i.e., frequency of therapy sessions) has not been undertaken for DTTC, resulting in a lack of evidence to guide decisions about the optimal treatment schedule for this intervention. The current study aims to fill this gap in knowledge by comparing treatment outcomes when dose frequency is varied.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial will be conducted to examine the efficacy of low versus high dose frequency on DTTC treatment outcomes in children with CAS. A target of 60 children, 2;6–7;11 years of age, will be recruited to participate in this study. Treatment will be provided in the community setting by speech-language pathologists who have completed specialized training administering DTTC in a research reliable manner. True randomization with concealed allocation will be used to assign children to either the low or high dose frequency group. Treatment will be administered in 1-h sessions either 4 times per week over a 6-week period (high dose) or 2 times per week over a 12-week period (low dose). To measure treatment gains, probe data will be collected before treatment, during treatment, and 1 day, 1 week, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks post-treatment. Probe data will consist of customized treated words and a standard set of untreated words to assess generalization of treatment gains. The primary outcome variable will be whole word accuracy, encompassing segmental, phonotactic, and suprasegmental accuracy.

Discussion

This will be the first randomized controlled trial to evaluate dose frequency for DTTC treatment in children with CAS.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT05675306, January 6, 2023.
Increased EEG gamma power under exposure to drug-related cues: a translational index for cue-elicited craving in METH-dependent individuals
Authors: Li Dong-xu , Zhou Xiang-yi , Lin Qian-qian , Wu Yue , Hu Cheng , Shen Zhi-hua , Wang Yong-guang
Published: May 2023

Background

This study explored the feasibility of using EEG gamma-band (30–49 Hz) power as an index of cue-elicited craving in METH-dependent individuals.

Methods

Twenty-nine participants dependent on methamphetamine (METH) and 30 healthy participants were instructed to experience a METH-related virtual reality (VR) social environment.

Results

Individuals with METH dependence showed significantly stronger self-reported craving and higher gamma power in a VR environment than healthy individuals. In the METH group, the VR environment elicited a significant increase in gamma power compared with the resting state. The METH group then received a VR counterconditioning procedure (VRCP), which was deemed useful in suppressing cue-induced reactivity. After VRCP, participants showed significantly lower self-reported craving scores and gamma power when exposed to drug-related cues than the first time.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the EEG gamma-band power may be a marker of cue-induced reactivity in patients with METH dependence.
Prevalence of prediabetes and associated factors among community members in rural Isingiro district
Authors: Ampeire Isaac Petit , Kawugezi Peter Chris , Mulogo Edgar Mugema
Published: May 2023

Background

In rural Uganda a significant number of persons afflicted with pre-diabetes are unaware of the condition. This is likely to lead to diabetic complications resulting in catastrophic health expendirure.The burden of prediabetes in rural Isingiro has not previously been determined. This study examined the prevalence of prediabetes and the associated factors among rural community members.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey and enrolled 370 participants aged between 18 and 70 years in the Kabuyanda sub-county, rural Isingiro district in march 2021. Multistage sampling and systematic random sampling were conducted to select eligible households. Data was collected using a pretested WHO STEP-wise protocol questionnaire. The primary outcome was prediabetes (FBG = 6.1mmol/l to 6.9mmol/l), calculated as a proportion. Participants known to be diabetic or on medication were excluded. Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression model were performed for data analysis using STATA.

Results

The prevalence of prediabetes was 9.19% (95% CI 6.23–12.14). Independent factors significantly associated with pre-diabetes were; advancing age [AOR = 5.7, 95% CI:1.03–32.30], moderate-intensity work [AOR = 2.6,95% CI:1.23–5.63], high level of consumption of a healthy diet [AOR = 5.7, 95% CI:1.67–19.05] and body mass index [AOR = 3.7, 95% CI:1.41–9.20].

Conclusion

Prediabetes is prevalent among adult community members in rural Isingiro, southwestern Uganda. Age and lifestyle factors predict prediabetes in this rural population, suggesting a need for targeted health promotion interventions.
Influence of design implant and apical depth in post-extraction sockets: an in vitro simulated study
Authors: Cavalcante Marcelo Sales , Ferraro-Bezerra Marcelo , de Barros Silva Paulo Goberlanio , Andrade Gabriel Silva , Alencar Phillipe Nogueira Barbosa , da Silva Ferreira Filho Josfran , Maia Lucas Alexandre , da Silva Raul Anderson Domingues Alves , Moreira Danna Mota , Avelar Rafael Linard
Published: May 2023

Background

Implant design and apical stability are principal parameters involved in achieving successful primary stability. Using polyurethane models to simulate post-extraction sockets, we investigated the effects of using differing blade designs on the primary stability of tapered implants and the impact of apical depth.

Method

Six polyurethane blocks were used to simulate post-extraction pockets. One of the implants presented self-tapping blades (Group A), while the other (Group B) did not. Seventy-two implants were placed at 3 different depths (5 mm, 7 mm, and 9 mm), and a torque wrench was used to measure the stability of the implants.

Results

When evaluating the implants (placed at 5 mm, 7 mm, and 9 mm apical to the socket), we observed that the torque of the Group B implants was higher than that of Group A implants (P < 0.01). At the 9-mm depth, there was no difference between the groups (Drive GM 34.92 Ncm and Helix GM 32.33 Ncm) (P > 0.001), and considering the same implant groups, those placed at 7-mm and 9-mm depths presented higher torques (p < 0.01) than those placed at 5-mm (p > 0.01).

Conclusion

Considering both groups, we concluded that an insertion depth of greater than 7 mm is needed for initial stability, and in situations involving reduced supportive bone tissue or low bone density, a non-self-tapping thread design improves implant stability.
Public health nurses experience of mental health encounters in the context of primary health care: a constructivist grounded theory study
Authors: Nilsson Emmy , Johanson Suzanne , Behm Lina , Bejerholm Ulrika
Published: May 2023

Background

In primary health care people with mental health needs are often overlooked or masked with physical complaints. It has been suggested that public health nurses lack sufficient knowledge when encountering people with mental health problems. Low levels of mental health literacy among professionals are associated with negative patient outcome. There is a need to understand public health nurses process and strategies used when encountering a person with mental health problems in order to promote mental health. This study aimed to construct a theory that explains the process of public health nurses experience when encountering people with mental health problems based on their knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about mental health.

Methods

A constructivist grounded theory design was used to meet the aim of the study. Interviews were conducted with 13 public health nurses working in primary health care between October 2019 and June 2021, and the data analysis was performed according to the principles of Charmaz.

Results

The core category, “Public health nurses as a relationship builder – to initiate the dialogue” reflected the process while the main categories “Being on your own”, “Being on top of things- knowing your limits”, and “Professional comfort zone” reflected conditions that were decisive for initiating a dialogue.

Conclusion

Managing mental health encounters in primary health care was a personal and complex decision-making process that depends on the public health nurses’ professional comfort zone and acquired mental health literacy. Narratives of the public health nurses helped to construct a theory and understand the conditions for recognizing, managing and promoting mental health in primary health care.