bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barriers and facilitators on the HIV care continuum among adults living with HIV in high-income countries: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Kim Gwang Suk , Kim Youngin , Park Min Kyung , Lee Sang A , Lee Youngjin , Shim Mi-So
Published: October 2022

Background

As the life expectancy of people living with HIV increases with the advancements in antiretroviral treatment, the continuity of long-term therapy and health care for people living with HIV has gained more importance. However, the estimated proportion of people living with HIV who have access to treatment or are virally suppressed is unsatisfactory. Therefore, it is necessary to build strategies to improve treatment continuity by identifying the barriers and facilitators that affect the HIV care continuum. To enable this, we will conduct a scoping review to explore the barriers and facilitators related to the care continuum in high-income countries for adults living with HIV.

Methods

The review question will be identified based on the JBI guidelines for the development of scoping review protocols. Studies exploring the barriers to and facilitators of the HIV care continuum among adults living with HIV in high-income countries will be included in this review. A literature search will be conducted on the databases (platform) of MEDLINE (Ovid), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (EBSCO), Embase (Ovid), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Cochrane Library). Four researchers will screen articles for inclusion and subsequently build a charting form and collate the data to provide results.

Discussion

The results of this scoping review will provide comprehensive evidence for the barriers and facilitators to be considered in the care continuum of people living with HIV. Importantly, the results will provide insight for healthcare providers and researchers to develop interventions and research the continuity in caring for people living with HIV.
To what extent does surrounding landscape explain stand-level occurrence of conservation-relevant species in fragmented boreal and hemi-boreal forest?–a systematic review protocol
Authors: Undin Malin , Atrena Anita , Carlsson Fredrik , Edman Mattias , Jonsson Bengt Gunnar , Sandström Jennie
Published: October 2022

Background

Silviculture and land-use change has reduced the amount of natural forest worldwide and left what remains confined to isolated fragments or stands. To understand processes governing species occurrence in such stands, much attention has been given to stand-level factors such as size, structure, and deadwood amount. However, the surrounding matrix will directly impact species dispersal and persistence, and the link between the surrounding landscape configuration, composition and history, and stand-level species occurrence has received insufficient attention. Thus, to facilitate optimisation of forest management and species conservation, we propose a review addressing ‘To what extent does surrounding landscape explain stand-level occurrence of conservation-relevant species in fragmented boreal and hemi-boreal forest?’.

Methods

The proposed systematic review will identify and synthesise relevant articles following the CEE guidelines for evidence synthesis and the ROSES standards. A search for peer-reviewed and grey literature will be conducted using four databases, two online search engines, and 36 specialist websites. Identified articles will be screened for eligibility in a two-step process; first on title and abstract, and second on the full text. Screening will be based on predefined eligibility criteria related to a PECO-model;populationbeing boreal and hemi-boreal forest,exposurebeing fragmentation,comparatorbeing landscapes with alternative composition, configuration, or history, andoutcomebeing occurrence (i.e., presence and/or abundance) of conservation-relevant species. All articles that pass the full-text screening will go through study validity assessment and data extraction, and be part of a narrative review. If enough studies prove comparable, quantitative meta-analyses will also be performed. The objective of the narrative review and the meta-analyses will be to address the primary question as well as six secondary questions, and to identify important knowledge gaps.
Whole-exome sequencing analysis identifies distinct mutational profile and novel prognostic biomarkers in primary gastrointestinal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Li Shan-Shan , Zhai Xiao-Hui , Liu Hai-Ling , Liu Ting-Zhi , Cao Tai-Yuan , Chen Dong-Mei , Xiao Le-Xin , Gan Xiao-Qin , Cheng Ke , Hong Wan-Jia , Huang Yan , Lian Yi-Fan , Xiao Jian
Published: October 2022

Background

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and about 10% of DLBCL cases primarily occur in the gastrointestinal tract. Previous reports have revealed that primary gastrointestinal-DLBCL (pGI-DLBCL) harbors different genetic mutations from other nodal or extranodal DLBCL. However, the exonic mutation profile of pGI-DLBCL has not been fully addressed.

Methods

We performed whole-exome sequencing of matched tumor tissues and blood samples from 53 pGI-DLBCL patients. The exonic mutation profiles were screened, and the correlations between genetic mutations and clinicopathological characteristics were analyzed.

Results

A total of 6,588 protein-altering events were found and the five most frequent mutated genes in our pGI-DLBCL cohort wereIGLL5(47%),TP53(42%),BTG2(28%),P2RY8(26%) andPCLO(23%). Compared to the common DLBCL, significantly less or absence ofMYD88(0%),EZH2(0%),BCL2(2%) orCD79B(8%) mutations were identified in pGI-DLBCL. The recurrent potential driver genes were mainly enriched in pathways related to signal transduction, infectious disease and immune regulation. In addition, HBV infection had an impact on the mutational signature in pGI-DLBCL, as positive HBsAg was significantly associated with theTP53andLRP1Bmutations, two established tumor suppressor genes in many human cancers. Moreover,IGLL5andLRP1Bmutations were significantly correlated with patient overall survival and could serve as two novel prognostic biomarkers in pGI-DLBCL.

Conclusions

Our study provides a comprehensive view of the exonic mutation profile of the largest pGI-DLBCL cohort to date. The results could facilitate the clinical development of novel therapeutic and prognostic biomarkers for pGI-DLBCL.
Underlying mechanisms in the relationship between stress and alcohol consumption in regular and risky drinkers (MESA): methods and design of a randomized laboratory study
Authors: Wittgens Charlotte , Muehlhan Markus , Kräplin Anja , Wolff Max , Trautmann Sebastian
Published: October 2022

Background

Excessive alcohol consumption and alcohol use disorders (AUD) are among the leading preventable causes of premature morbidity and mortality and are considered a major public health concern. In order to reduce the individual and societal burden of excessive alcohol use, it is crucial to identify high-risk individuals at earlier stages and to provide effective interventions to prevent further progression. Stressful experiences are important risk factors for excessive alcohol consumption and AUDs. However, the underlying biological and psychological mechanisms are still poorly understood.

Methods

The project “Underlying mechanisms in the relationship between stress and alcohol consumption in regular and risky drinkers (MESA)” is a randomized controlled study that started in December 2018 and is conducted in a laboratory setting, which aims to identify moderators and mediators of the relationship between acute stress and alcohol consumption among regular and risky drinkers. Regular and risky drinkers are randomly assigned to a stress induction or a control condition. Several processes that may mediate (emotional distress, endocrine and autonomic stress reactivity, impulsivity, inhibitory control, motivational sensitization) or moderate (trait impulsivity, childhood maltreatment, basal HPA-axis activity) the relation between stress and alcohol consumption are investigated. As primary dependent variable, the motivation to consume alcohol following psychosocial stress is measured.

Discussion

The results of this study could help to provide valuable targets for future research on tailored interventions to prevent stress-related alcohol consumption.
Vaccination process evaluation at COVID-19 vaccination centers in Lebanon: a national study
Authors: Zeitoun Abeer , Hallit Souheil , Helali Maya , Chehade Sirine , Allam Carla , Ibrahim Aya , Dimassi Hani , Karam Rita
Published: October 2022

Background

Upon the authorization of COVID-19 vaccines worldwide, national and international standards were developed to help integrate mass COVID-19 immunization campaigns into the healthcare network. The primary objective is to evaluate the overall COVID-19 vaccination process through on-site visits to vaccination centers all over Lebanon to assess whether these are abiding by the national and international requirements for both Pfizer-BioNTech and AstraZeneca vaccines. The secondary objective is to explore whether the type of the facility, private versus governmental, and educational versus non-education, affects the vaccination process in these centers.

Methods

A convenient sample of 33 vaccination centers was selected from a list of all COVID-19 vaccination centers operating in Lebanon. Data were collected using a structured checklist developed following an extensive literature review of the national and international standards for Pfizer-BioNTech and AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines. A scoring system for the overall vaccination process was developed.

Results

Quality deficiencies were identified in several steps of the immunization process; however, the international standards were followed in most vaccination centers visited despite their limited resources. It was noticed that there were no significant differences between private and governmental, between educational and non-educational, and between Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccination centers; the 33 vaccination centers visited have scored above 75 on the entire process immunization against COVID-19 with P-values above 0.05 in all steps evaluated.

Conclusion

An optimization of the immunization process should be performed to ensure that the practice is within international standards. This can be done by conducting periodic vaccination center visits, implementing clear guidelines, training staff involved in the vaccination process, and ensuring continuous support of the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health.
Performance assessment of the landslide susceptibility modelling using the support vector machine, radial basis function network, and weight of evidence models in the N'fis river basin, Morocco
Authors: Naceur Hassan Ait , Abdo Hazem Ghassan , Igmoullan Brahim , Namous Mustapha , Almohamad Hussein , Al Dughairi Ahmed Abdullah , Al-Mutiry Motrih
Published: October 2022

Landslides in mountainous areas are one of the most important natural hazards and potentially cause severe damage and loss of human life. In order to reduce this damage, it is essential to determine the potentially vulnerable sites. The objective of this study was to produce a landslide vulnerability map using the weight of evidence method (WoE), Radial Basis Function Network (RBFN), and Support Vector Machine (SVM) for the N'fis basin located on the northern border of the Marrakech High Atlas, a mountainous area prone to landslides. Firstly, an inventory of historical landslides was carried out based on the interpretation of satellite images and field surveys. A total of 156 historical landslide events were mapped in the study area. 70% of the data from this inventory (110 events) was used for model training and the remaining 30% (46 events) for model validation. Next, fourteen thematic maps of landslide causative factors, including lithology, slope, elevation, profile curvature, slope aspect, distance to rivers, topographic moisture index (TWI), topographic position index (TPI), distance to faults, distance to roads, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), precipitation, land use/land cover (LULC), and soil type, were determined and created using the available spatial database. Finally, landslide susceptibility maps of the N'fis basin were produced using the three models: WoE, RBFN, and SVM. The results were validated using several statistical indices and a receiver operating characteristic curve. The AUC values for the SVM, RBFN, and WoE models were 94.37%, 93.68%, and 83.72%, respectively. Hence, we can conclude that the SVM and RBFN models have better predictive capabilities than the WoE model. The obtained susceptibility maps could be helpful to the local decision-makers for LULC planning and risk mitigation.
Prediction of cardiovascular events by central blood pressure using radial tonometry in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Kim Min-Sik , Cha Seon-Ah , Kim Gee-Hee
Published: October 2022

Background

High blood pressure (BP) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are major causes of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and heart failure (HF). Central blood pressure (CBP) is more predictive of ASCVD than is brachial BP; however, an association of CBP with ASCVD has not been found in T2DM patients. We evaluated the impact of CBP and the association between optimal level of noninvasively measured CBP and office BP in T2DM patients based on composite outcome of ASCVD, HF, and complications of hypertension.

Methods

Patients were enrolled from June 2011 to December 2015 and were followed up through December 2019. CBP was measured using radial tonometry. The primary endpoints were composite outcome of ASCVD, HF, and hypertension-induced complications such as left ventricular hypertrophy, retinopathy, and proteinuria.

Results

During the 6.5-year follow-up period, 515 patients were enrolled in the study. A total of 92 patients (17.9%) developed primary endpoints. The mean age of subjects was 61.3 ± 12.1 years and 55% (n = 283) were male. Patients who developed primary endpoints were older (65.3 ± 9.5 years vs. 60.5 ± 12.4 years) and had lower high-density lipoprotein (36.6 ± 9.4 mg/dL vs. 41.8 ± 11.1 mg/dL), higher CBP (123.6 ± 20.6 mmHg vs. 118.0 ± 20.6 mmHg), and higher pulse pressure (61.3 ± 16.6 mmHg vs. 56.5 ± 15.1 mmHg) than subjects without primary endpoint development. After adjustment for various risk factors, CBP was an independent predictor for primary endpoints (hazard ratio, 1.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.27; P = 0.016). In addition, the association of CBP and primary endpoints showed a U-shaped curve with the lowest incidence at CBP 118 mmHg and systolic BP about 128 mmHg.

Conclusions

We show the importance of CBP measurements in T2DM patients and present a cutoff value for ASCVD events and hypertension-induced complications.
A standardized method to quantitatively analyze optical coherence tomography angiography images of the macular and peripapillary vessels
Authors: Mello Luiz Guilherme Marchesi , Rodrigues Neto Taurino dos Santos , da Silva Neto Epitácio Dias , Preti Rony Carlos , Monteiro Mário Luiz Ribeiro , Zacharias Leandro Cabral
Published: October 2022

Background

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a relatively new non-invasive imaging technique to evaluate retinal vascular complexes. However, there is still a lack of standardization and reproducibility of its quantitative evaluation. Furthermore, manual analysis of a large amount of OCTA images makes the process laborious, with greater data variability, and risk of bias. Therefore, the aim of this study is to describe a fast and reproducible quantitative analysis of the foveal avascular zone (FAZ), macular superficial and deep vascular complexes (mSVC and mDVC, respectively), and peripapillary superficial vascular complex (pSVC) in OCTA images.

Methods

We survey models and methods used for studying retinal microvasculature, and software packages used to quantify microvascular networks. These programs have provided researchers with invaluable tools, but we estimate that they have collectively achieved low adoption rates, possibly due to complexity for unfamiliar researchers and nonstandard sets of quantification metrics. To address these existing limitations, we discuss opportunities to improve effectiveness, affordability, and reproducibility of microvascular network quantification with the development of an automated method to analyze the vessels and better serve the current and future needs of microvascular research. OCTA images of the macula (10°x10°, 15°x15°, or 20°x20° centered on the fovea) and peripapillary area (15 × 15º centered on optic nerve head) were exported from the device and processed using the open-source software Fiji. The mSVC, mDVC, and pSVC were automatically analyzed regarding vascular density in the total area and four sectors (superior, inferior, nasal, and temporal). We also analyzed the FAZ regarding its area, perimeter, and circularity in the SVC and DVC images.

Results

We developed an automated model and discussed a step by step method to analyze vessel density and FAZ of the macular SVC and DVC, acquired with OCTA using different fields of view. We also developed an automated analysis of the peripapillary SVC.

Conclusion

Our developed automated analysis of macular and peripapillary OCTA images will allow a fast, reproducible, and precise quantification of SVC, DVC, and FAZ. It would also allow more accurate comparisons between different studies and streamlines the processing of images from multiple patients with a single command.
Which factors promote and prohibit successful implementation and normalization of a healthy school lunch program at primary schools in the Netherlands?
Authors: van Kleef Ellen , Dijkstra S. Coosje , Seidell Jaap , Vingerhoeds Monique H. , Polet Ilse A. , Zeinstra Gertrude G.
Published: October 2022

Background

A school provided healthy lunch might help to improve the nutritional quality of children’s lunches. However, in the Netherlands, school lunch programs are not common. The aim of this study was to identify factors that promote or inhibit the implementation of a school lunch program at primary schools, from the viewpoint of school professionals.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 204 primary school professionals. The normalization process theory and its four constructs (i.e. coherence, cognitive participation, collective action, reflective monitoring) were used to develop questions and interpret findings. Descriptive statistics were used for 14 multiple choice questions (yes, no, don’t know) and thematic content analysis for qualitative responses.

Results

Participants had a shared understanding about how a lunch program differed from current practices. Most participants had the same view on the rationale for implementation (coherence), such as equality among children. Sixty percent expected that a healthy school lunch will contribute to healthier eating by the children. Participants showed different degrees of cognitive participation (46% indicated that healthy school lunch is good idea). Commitment depended on their belief whether providing a healthy lunch was part of their responsibility as school and 30% expected a large effect on their daily work (collective action). When appraising school lunch implementation (reflective monitoring), participants’ concerns focused on feasibility and adaptability of a program in their own school.

Conclusions

The introduction of a school lunch program will require substantial effort, although there is considerable support and understanding about potential benefits. The findings point to a number of preconditions for large-scale introduction, including the need for support—both financially and organizationally—bottom-up involvement of teachers, children and parents and freedom to adapt the program.
Making shared decisions with older men selecting treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH): a pilot randomized trial
Authors: Ngu Haidee , Neo Shu Hui , Koh Eileen Yi Leng , Ho Henry , Tan Ngiap Chuan
Published: October 2022

Background

Making high-quality decisions when selecting treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH) requires a shared decision-making approach. However, older people with lower health literacy face barriers. The pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of recruiting participants and evaluate the effectiveness of a multi-level intervention on decision quality for the treatment of LUTS/BPH.

Method

In this 2-arm, randomized controlled trial, multi-ethnic Asian men aged ≥ 50 years with moderate or severe symptoms (IPSS ≥ 8 and/or QOL ≥ 3) and physicians were recruited at a Singapore public primary care clinic. Men were randomized to either physicians trained in shared decision-making and used a pictorial patient-reported symptom score (Visual Analogue Uroflowmetry Score) during the consultation or to physicians untrained in shared decision-making who did not use the score. Decision quality was measured using SDMQ-9 scores from men and their physicians after the consultation.

Results

60 men (intervention [n = 30], control [n = 30]) receiving care from 22 physicians were recruited. Men’s mean age was 70 ± 9 years: 87% were Chinese, 40% had no formal education, and 32% were of lower socioeconomic status. No difference in decision quality from the men’s nor their physicians’ perspectives was noted [for men: mean score = 70.8 (SD 20.3) vs. 59.5 (SD 22.4); adjusted p = 0.352] [for physicians: mean score = 78.1 (SD 14.1) vs. 73.2 (SD 19.8); adjusted p > 0.999].

Conclusion

It was feasible to recruit the intended participants. There was no difference in decision quality between men who used shared decision-making and usual care for the treatment of LUTS/BPH.
Improving communication of the concept of 'treat-to target' in childhood lupus: a public and patient (PPI) engagement project involving children and young people
Authors: Elliott R. S. , Taylor E. , Ainsworth J. , Preston J. , Smith E. M. D. S.
Published: October 2022

Background

A treat-to-target (T2T) approach, where treatment is escalated until a specific target is achieved, and re-escalated if the target is lost, has been proposed as a strategy to improve Childhood Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (cSLE) outcomes. Previous studies involving children and young people (CYP) have identified that the concept of T2T can be difficult to understand by CYP and their families. We aimed to explore the views of CYP participating in existing public and patient involvement (PPI) groups in relation to a proposed animation that is being developed to explain the concept of T2T to CYP who will be eligible for a future cSLE T2T trial.

Methods

An illustrated animation storyboard was developed on PowerPoint, to be used alongside a contemporaneous voiceover to simulate the animation for CYP participating in three existing CYP PPI groups (GenerationR, Lupus UK, and YOUR RHEUM). Mixed methods were used to generate CYP feedback on the resource, including on-line surveys and qualitative topic-guided discussion, noting CYP suggestions for improvement. Changes were made iteratively to the resources. Pre/post workshop questionnaires to assess the impact of the resource on their understanding of T2T were completed anonymously.

Results

40 CYP were consulted; 16/40 (40%) from GenerationR (median age 15-years [IQR 12–15]), 12/40 (30%) from Lupus UK (median age 27-years [IQR 22–30]), and 12/40 (30%) from YOUR RHEUM (median age 17-years [IQR 16–21]). 62% of respondents had an underlying rheumatic condition. Pre-workshop median participant understanding of T2T was 2/10 [IQR 1–4], on a 1–10 scale (1 = “no understanding at all”, 10 = “completely confident in my understanding”). After viewing the resource, participant understanding improved to a median of 9/10 [IQR 8–10], p < 0.0001). Overall, participants felt that the animation greatly improved their understanding of the concept of T2T, making several suggestions for improvement.

Conclusion

Involvement of CYP in research is crucial to help improve the design/delivery of studies, ensuring relevance to CYP and their families. This manuscript demonstrates the involvement of CYP in the development of an animation that will be integral to a future clinical trial, helping to describe the T2T approach in a comprehensible way to eligible CYP and their families, supporting study recruitment.
The importance of children and young person involvement in scoping the need for a paediatric glucocorticoid-associated patient reported outcome measure
Authors: Singhal S. , Smith E. M. D. , Roper L. , Pain C. E.
Published: October 2022

Background

For many children and young people (CYP) with paediatric rheumatic conditions, glucocorticoid medications and their associated side-effects have a substantial impact on disease experience. Whilst there are physician-rated measures of glucocorticoid toxicity, no parallel patient reported measure has been developed to date for CYP with rheumatic disease. This manuscript describes a series of public patient involvement (PPI) events to inform the development of a future paediatric glucocorticoid-associated patient reported outcome measure (PROM).

Methods

One large group PPI event was advertised to CYP with experience of glucocorticoid medication use and their parents through clinicians, charities and existing PPI groups. This featured education on the team’s research into glucocorticoid medication and interactive polls/structured discussion to help participants share their experiences. Further engagement was sought for PPI group work to co-develop future glucocorticoid studies, including development of a glucocorticoid associated PROM. Quantitative and qualitative feedback was collected from online questionnaires. The initiative was held virtually due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Results

Nine families (n = 15) including 6 CYP joined the large group PPI event. Online pre-attendance and post-attendance questionnaires showed improvement in mean self-reported confidence [1 = not at all confident, 5 = very confident] in the following: what steroid medications are (pre = 3.9, post = 4.8), steroid side effects (pre = 3.8, post = 4.6), patient-reported outcome measures (pre = 2.0, post = 4.5), available research on steroids (pre = 2.2, post = 3.5). Five families (n = 7) were involved in a monthly PPI group who worked alongside the research team to identify priorities in glucocorticoid research, produce age-appropriate study materials, identify barriers to study participation (e.g. accessibility & convenience) and recommend appropriate modalities for dissemination. The participants found discussing shared experiences and learning about research to be the most enjoyable aspects of the initiative.

Conclusions

This PPI initiative provided a valuable forum for families, including young children, to share their perspectives. Here, the authors explore the effective use of PPI in a virtual setting and provide a unique case study for the involvement of CYP in PROM development. The monthly PPI group also identified a need for the development of a new PROM related to glucocorticoid medication use and provided unique insights into how such a study could be structured.
Demographic and risk factors profile of intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis in the Kingdom of Bahrain
Authors: Al-Nidawi Firas , Mohamed Mohamed Wael , Hussein Ali , Alataibi Noora , Althahabi Rawan , Almaawi Ahmed , Qassim Aya , Das Priya
Published: October 2022

Background

Intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) is one of the most common causes of stroke worldwide. This study aimed to analyze the demographic and risk factor profiles of ICAS in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The study population included 477 patients who were hospitalized in the Neurology Department from March 1, 2018, to September 1, 2020 because of acute ischemic stroke and underwent arterial brain imaging (CTA or MRA) examination during their hospitalization.

Results

Of 477 patients, 123 (25.7%) had ICAS. A history of stroke/transient ischemic attack was significantly higher in patients with intracranial stenosis (P = 0.012). Patients with ICAS had significant concurrent extracranial arterial stenosis (ECAS) (P = 0.00). In Bahraini patients, dyslipidemia was associated with a higher percentage of developing ICAS, but this was statistically nonsignificant (p = 0.06).

Conclusions

An independent and significant correlation was found between ICAS and stroke recurrence. In addition, a concurrent existence of ECAS and ICAS was noted.
Mechanisms involved in the anticancer effects of sinapic acid
Authors: Pandi Anandakumar , Kalappan Vanitha Manickam
Published: October 2022

Background

Cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and have the ability to infiltrate and destroy normal body tissue. Worldwide, it is the second most leading cause of death. Dietary intake of bioactive compounds from plant sources has been documented for their protective effect against different types of human ailments including cancer.

Main body

Sinapic acid (3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxycinnamic acid) (SA) is a promising phytochemical, available in oil seeds, berries, spices, vegetables and cereals. SA has been well documented for its antibacterial, anti-peroxidative, anti-hyperglycemic, anticancer, hepatoprotective, reno-protective, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory and anticancer effects. Nevertheless, the anticancer activity of SA has remained a challenge with regard to understanding its mechanism in health and diseases.

Short conclusion

This review is an effort to summarize the updated literature available about the mechanisms involved in the anticancer effects of SA in order to recommend this compound for further future investigations.
Assessment of auditory function in hepatitis “C” patients managed by combination of sofosbuvir and daclatsavir
Authors: Meghezel El-Zahraa M. , Abd Al-Ghaffar Mohammed A. , Mohammad Asmaa Naser , Mahmoud Samar M. , Abdelaal Usama M. , Mourad Salwa
Published: October 2022

Background

To evaluate the effect of daclatasvir and sofosbuvir on auditory function in hepatitis C patients. Thirty hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients were included in this study with age ranged from 22 to 55 years. All patients underwent full audiological evaluation before beginning and after completion of their treatment with combination of daclatasvir and sofosbuvir.

Result

When the results of audiological data were compared before and after treatment, we found that; there were statistically significant differences in the pure tone audiometry (PTA) threshold and ART bilaterally mainly in the high frequency region. Transient evoked otoacoustic emission (TEOAE) reproducibility showed a statistically significant difference bilateral. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) findings.

Conclusion and recommendations

The combination therapy of daclatasvir and sofosbuvir used in patients with HCV led to deterioration in the hearing threshold in the basic audiological tests (PTA and immitancemetry). In addition, it had an adverse effect on the cochlear OHCs, with no affection on auditory nerve, brain stem functions or in sub-thalamic function, it seems that it had no effect, we cannot confirm. The study evaluate hearing at the end of treatment immediately. We recommend performing a routine monitoring of auditory functions in HCV patients treated with daclatasvir and sofosbuvir combination by specialist for early detection of auditory changes to avoid further damage to auditory system.
Effect of platelet-rich plasma combined with tranexamic acid in the treatment of melasma and its effect on the serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, endothelin-1 and melatonin
Authors: Zhang Ci , Wu Tianpeng , Shen Nan
Published: October 2022

Objective: To investigate the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with tranexamic acid (TXA) in the treatment of melasma and its effect on the serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), endothelin-1 (ET-1) and melanin stimulating hormone (MSH).

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed clinical data of 80 patients with melasma treated in our hospital from January 2020 to June 2021. Patients (n=38) in the control group received simple oral TXA treatment. Patients (n=42) in the study group received PRP combined with oral TXA treatment. We assessed the treatment effects on the serum biochemical index levels, the adverse reactions, and the recurrence rates in the two groups.

Results: The total efficacy of the study group (90.48%) was higher than that of the control group (73.68%) (p<0.05). After the treatment, the levels of serum VEGF increased and the levels of ET-1 and MSH decreased in both groups, but the changes in the study group were more pronounced than those in the control group (p<0.05). We found similar incidences of the adverse reaction in the study group (7.14%) and the control group (5.26%; p>0.05). The disease recurrence rates between the two groups three months after the treatment were similar (p>0.05). However, the disease recurrence rate in the study group (4.76%) was lower than that in the control group (21.05%) 6 months after treatment (p<0.05).

Conclusions: PRP combined with oral TXA can improve the treatment effect of TXA alone in the treatment of melasma, maintaining normal levels of VEGF, ET-1 and MSH, reducing disease recurrences.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.8.6786

How to cite this:Zhang C, Wu T, Shen N. Effect of platelet-rich plasma combined with tranexamic acid in the treatment of melasma and its effect on the serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, endothelin-1 and melatonin. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(8):2163-2168.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.8.6786

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Men’s eating disorders – A literature review
Authors: Chmura Anna , Baciur Patrycja , Skowrońska Katarzyna , Karaś Anna
Published: October 2022

Introduction and purpose: Eating disorders belong to the group of mental diseases characterized by significant somatic complications and high mortality. There is a common opinion that these disorders mainly affect women. Such assumptions may result in limited knowledge of the diagnosis and treatment of an eating disorder in the male population. The aim of this study is to summarize the current knowledge about eating disorders among men, including binge eating disorder (BED), anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN). Description of the state of knowledge: It turns out that the problem of eating disorders among the male sex is not so rare- it is estimated that approximately 10 million US men will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives. The most common eating disorder among men appears to be binge eating disorder (BED). Men are also more likely to report binge eating than women. AN and BN occur much less frequently than BED in the male population. The symptoms of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa may differ between men and women. More and more often we observe a development of a certain type of muscle dysmorphia among men, the so-called “reverse anorexia". Eating disorders carry a number of medical complications such as cardiac disorders, electrolyte disturbances, digestive problems and skeletal disturbances. Therapeutic interventions in the treatment of male eating disorders should take into account gender-specific problems. Conclusions: The real number of men suffering from eating disorders may be underestimated due to the neglect of the problem in the context of the male gender. It also results in poorly developed diagnostic and support schemes for men struggling with this problem. More research is needed on the topic of eating disorders in this group of patients as it will help to develop better diagnostic and therapeutic regimens adapted to the male gender.
On some relationships between snake graphs and Brauer configuration algebras
Authors:   Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Espinosa Pedro Fernando Fernández , González Javier Fernando ,   Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Herrán Juan Pablo ,   Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Cañadas Agustín Moreno ,   Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Ramírez José Luis ,   Universidad Nacional de Colombia
Published: October 2022

In this paper, suitable Brauer configuration algebras are used to give an explicit formula for the number of perfect matchings of a snake graph. Some relationships between Brauer configuration algebras with path problems as the Lindstr\"om problem are described as well.
Online list coloring for signed graphs
Authors:   University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Tupper Melissa , White Jacob A. ,   University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Published: October 2022

We generalize the notion of online list coloring to signed graphs. We define the online list chromatic number of a signed graph, and prove a generalization of Brooks' Theorem. We also give necessary and sufficient conditions for a signed graph to be degree paintable, or degree choosable. Finally, we classify the 2-list-colorable and 2-list-paintable signed graphs.
BEYOND PRICE AND USE-VALUE
Authors: Noonan Jeff
Published: October 2022

Mainstream economists have long argued that the labour theory of value cannot explain price-formation. In response, Marxists have argued that mainstream economics is fixated on abstract mathematical problems which mystify social reality and obscure the social relationships at the heart of the real economy. Marxist political economists have proposed formal solutions to the price-formation problem, but the deeper issue on which my article will focus is the way in which price signals cannot communicate the information that economic agents need to make decisions which are consistent with the life-support capacity of the natural world and the social interests of workers. While Marxists typically distinguish a socialist economy from a capitalist one on the basis of the former’s commitment to production for the sake of need-satisfaction, needs are typically defined in terms of use-values. I will argue that this identification fails to distinguish between needs as universal life-requirements and needs as means to the completion of any project whatsoever. Unless needs are defined in terms of life-requirements, then even a socialist society can continue to undermine the natural conditions of life-support and exhaust human potential in meaningless cycles of consumption.
Perceived discrimination in the workplace and mental health from early adulthood to midlife
Authors: Han Xiaowen , Mortimer Jeylan , VanHeuvelen Tom
Published: October 2022

Considerable evidence demonstrates that perceiving oneself as an object of discrimination has negative consequences for mental health. However, little is known about whether this experience is more or less harmful in distinct phases of the life course, consistent with the life course principle of timing; or whether, in accord with the principle of lifespan development, it has long-term implications. We draw on longitudinal data addressing perceived workplace discrimination based on race/ethnicity and gender from the prospective Youth Development Study, covering early adulthood to midlife. Hierarchical linear modelling of the effects of discrimination on depressed mood indicates that both forms of discrimination have short-term (within life stages) and long-term (across stages) adverse effects on adult mental health. The impacts of perceived discrimination within stages on depressed mood appear to be greatest in the mid-30s and to weaken by midlife. Lingering effects of discrimination are more pronounced early on. These patterns are observed with controls for key time-varying negative experiences at work and personal socio-economic status, as well as invariant background characteristics (gender, race and parental socio-economic status). We consider these findings in relation to the dynamics of personal change in the context of occupational careers.
Toxic Metals in Some Decorative Cosmetics and Nail Products
Authors: Meena Bashdar I. , Tahir Tara F. , Sdeeq Shalaw Z. , Sediq Khalid N.
Published: October 2022

Cosmetic marketing is one of the most profitable and fast increasing markets in Kurdistan Region of Iraq. In recent years, the use of cosmetics has witnessed a rapid increase, especially with the emergence of social media and its impact on this trade. The market is full of different cosmetic brands and nail products. Moderate and low-quality brands of cosmetic samples that available in the local markets were selected to investigate their heavy metals and chemical composition. Samples from face foundation, eye shadow, and nail polish products were taken and examined to evaluate the concentration of metals, that is, Hg, Pb, Cd, As, Mn, Cr, Ni, Co, Fe, Zn, Cu, and Al ions, using X-ray diffraction and X-ray fluorescence techniques. The examination results show high concentrations of Fe and Al metals in the lipstick samples whereas the Hg, Cd, Cr, and Ni were out of detection limit. Moreover, the results show contamination of Hg heavy metal in one of the examined nail polishes brands, whereas the rest of foundation and eye shadow samples show a higher concentration of Al and Fe. Curcumin, as a natural bio-friendly chelate, has been used to deplete metal ions using ultraviolet-visible Spectrophotometer.
Recent research progress and advanced applications of silica/polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Li Hongwei , Cheng Bingxu , Gao Weichen , Feng Chunni , Huang Chongxing , Liu Yang , Lu Peng , Zhao Hui
Published: October 2022

Silica (SiO2) is one of the most promising inorganic nanofillers, and it has been widely used in the preparation of polymer nanocomposites due to its adjustable morphology, large specific surface area, and ease of functionalization. The surface modification, structural characteristics, and bonding mechanisms of SiO2 are crucial in enhancing the overall performance of polymer nanocomposites. This review focuses on summarizing the recent progress made regarding the preparation and structure characterization methods, unique properties, and rheological behavior of SiO2/polymer nanocomposites. In addition, the latest applications of SiO2/polymer nanocomposites in coatings, smart devices, biomedicine, and environment are further explored. A comprehensive summary of the main challenges, opportunities, and perspectives regarding SiO2/polymer nanocomposites is also presented.
Comparison of Barricor tube and serum separator tube in outpatients
Authors: Orhan Bagnu , Mercan Hilal , Deniz Levent , Erdogan Zeynep , Bercik Inal Berrin
Published: October 2022

Objectives

In clinical laboratories, it is common to obtain serum and plasma by using a barrier tube due to its various advantages. In this study, we aimed to compare 18 biochemistry analytes in outpatient clinic and outpatient oncology patients by measuring in a Barricor tube and a serum separator tube (SST).

Methods

Venous blood was drawn into the Barricor tube and SST from volunteers consisting of outpatients and outpatient oncology patients. The biochemical parameters were measured using the AU2700 autoanalyser (Beckman Coulter Inc., CA, USA) and Beckman Coulter Access immunoanalyser (Beckman Coulter Inc., CA, USA). The biochemical analytes evaluated in the two participant groups were compared between the Barricor tube and SST.

Results

In the study, when the results in both the outpatient group and the outpatient oncology patient group, bias (%), allowable bias (%), CV (%), allowable CV (%), total error (%), total allowable error (TEa) (%) were evaluated; potassium (K) total error (%) between Barricor tube and SST exceeded TEa, however, all other parameters were within TEa.

Conclusions

Considering its various advantages and compared biochemical analytes, we think that can be switched to the Barricor tube in clinical laboratories and the reference range change can be made for K.
The Transient Performance-Evaluation Model for Desalination of Seawater Based on Matrix Algorithm – a Requirement for a Ported Arabic Smart City
Authors: Liu Jingrui , Pan Dongyang
Published: October 2022

Based on the transient performance model for desalination of seawater based on the matrix algorithm, the desalination device is designed according to the evaporation condensation mechanism of falling film in horizontal tube, and its structure operation and operation principle are analyzed. Then, the differential equation of the transient heat-conduction problem of the seawater desalination device is constructed. On the basis of experimental data or numerical calculation results, the temperature field of structure at some time is selected to form the snapshots matrix, and a set of optimal eigenorthogonal decomposition bases is obtained by eigenorthogonal decomposition of the snapshots matrix. Finally, the finite-element discrete scheme of the nonlinear transient heat-conduction problem is reduced by using eigenorthogonal decomposition bases of the linear problem, and the lower-order ordinary differential equations of the reduced-order model for the nonlinear transient heat-conduction problem of the seawater desalination device are obtained. The ordinary differential equations of the reduced-order model are solved by solving the ordinary differential equations of the reduced-order model. The distribution of the temperature field at each time of the structure is obtained. The performance of the model is verified by numerical examples under the conditions of two-stage temperature-difference heating and only the top-level heating. The results show that the model has good accuracy and efficiency.
Nomogram for Predicting the Severity of Coronary Artery Disease in Young Adults ≤45 Years of Age with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Hong Xulin , Li Duanbin , Yang Xinrui , Fu Guosheng , Jiang Chenyang , Zhang Wenbin
Published: October 2022

Background: A non-invasive predictive model has not been established to identify the severity of coronary lesions in young adults with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods: In this retrospective study, 1088 young adults (≤45 years of age) first diagnosed with ACS who underwent coronary angiography were enrolled and randomized 7:3 into training or testing datasets. To build the nomogram, we determined optimal predictors of coronary lesion severity with the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator and Random Forest algorithm. The predictive accuracy of the nomogram was assessed with calibration plots, and performance was assessed with the receiver operating characteristic curve, decision curve analysis and the clinical impact curve.

Results: Seven predictors were identified and integrated into the nomogram: age, hypertension, diabetes, body mass index, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, mean platelet volume and C-reactive protein. Receiver operating characteristic analyses demonstrated the nomogram’s good discriminatory performance in predicting severe coronary artery disease in young patients with ACS in the training (area under the curve 0.683, 95% confidence interval [0.645–0.721]) and testing (area under the curve 0.670, 95% confidence interval [0.611–0.729]) datasets. The nomogram was also well-calibrated in both the training (P=0.961) and testing (P=0.302) datasets. Decision curve analysis and the clinical impact curve indicated the model’s good clinical utility.

Conclusion: A simple and practical nomogram for predicting coronary artery disease severity in young adults≤45 years of age with ACS was established and validated.