bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ramucirumab plus irinotecan / leucovorin / 5-FU versus ramucirumab plus paclitaxel in patients with advanced or metastatic adenocarcinoma of the stomach or gastroesophageal junction, who failed one prior line of palliative chemotherapy: the phase II/III RAMIRIS study (AIO-STO-0415)
Authors: Lorenzen Sylvie , Schwarz Alix , Pauligk Claudia , Goekkurt Eray , Stocker Gertraud , Knorrenschild Jorge Riera , Illerhaus Gerald , Dechow Tobias , Moehler Markus , Moulin Jean-Charles , Pink Daniel , Stahl Michael , Schaaf Marina , Goetze Thorsten Oliver , Al-Batran Salah-Eddin
Published: June 2023

Background

Paclitaxel in combination with ramucirumab is the standard of care second-line therapy in gastro-esophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA). As the number of taxane pretreated patients in the perioperative or first-line setting is increasing, it is unknown whether these patients benefit from re-applying a taxane in using the combination of paclitaxel and ramucirumab. Furthermore, the rates of neurotoxicity with first-line FOLFOX or FLOT range from 30%–70%, making second-line taxane‐containing therapy less suitable to a meaningful portion of patients. This patient group is likely to benefit from a taxane-free second-line chemotherapy regimen, such as FOLFIRI and ramucirumab (FOLFIRI-Ram). Therefore, the RAMIRIS phase III trial evaluates the effects of the regimen of FOLFIRI-Ram in the second-line treatment after a taxane-based chemotherapy in patients with advanced GEA.

Methods

The RAMIRIS trial is a randomized, open-label, multicenter phase II/III study comparing treatment of FOLFIRI-Ram (arm A) with paclitaxel and ramucirumab (arm B). The Phase II is already closed with 111 enrolled patients. In the phase III, 318 taxane-pretreated patients with advanced GEA will be recruited and randomized 1:1 to FOLFIRI (5-FU 2400 mg/m2 over 46 h i.v., irinotecan 180 mg/m2 i.v.; 5-FU 400 mg/m2 bolus; leucovorin 400 mg/m2 i.v.; on day 1 and 15, q28) with ramucirumab 8 mg/kg every two weeks (Arm A) or paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 (days 1, 8, 15, q28) with ramucirumab 8 mg/kg every two weeks (Arm B). The primary endpoints are overall survival (OS) and objective overall response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints are progression-free survival (PFS), disease control rate and safety and quality of life as assessed by EORTC-QLQ-C30 questionnaire.

Discussion

The already completed RAMIRIS phase II demonstrated feasibility and efficacy of FOLFIRI-Ram. Especially docetaxel-pretreated patients seemed to markedly benefit from FOLFIRI-Ram, with favorable response- and PFS rates and lower toxicity. This offers a rationale for the phase III trial. If the RAMIRIS III trial transfers and confirms the results, they will affect the current treatment guidelines, recommending the combination therapy of FOLFIRI-Ram for taxane-pretreated patients with advanced GEA.

Trial registration

NCT03081143 Date of registration: 13.11.2015
A dual H-type tracheoesophageal fistula; why not being repaired simultaneously? A case report and review of literature
Authors: Hosseini Amirhossein , Sinaei Reza , Yeganeh Mehrnoush Hassas , Boroujeni Masoud Ghanbari , Dara Naghi , Sadr Saeed , Iranikhah Abolfazl , Rouzrokh Mohsen
Published: June 2023

Background

H-type Tracheoesophageal Fistula (TEF) is a particular type of congenital esophageal anomalies, in which patients present with non-specific symptoms that can result in delayed diagnosis. Here, we report two pediatric cases with a rarer variant called ‟dual H-type TEFˮ.

Case presentation

We present two cases of H-type TEF. The first was a 45-day-old boy with feeding problem and cyanosis while feeding, and the second was a three-month-old girl with cough and choking after feeding from the first day of birth. In both cases, two separate TEFs were detected during diagnostic evaluation by flexible bronchoscopy. Both were repaired simultaneously through a cervical incision. The first patient deteriorated 13 days after the surgery, disturbancing in acid-base balance and expired unfortunately.

Conclusion

Hence, it is necessary to consider the possibility of double TEF in any newly diagnosed H-type TEF.
Exploration of the nutrition knowledge among general population: multi—national study in Arab countries
Authors: Bany-yasin Hammam , Elmor Abdellatif A. , Ebrahim Basant Khaled , Ahmed Asaad Ayoub Mohamed , Alarachi Mohammad Roujan , Abedalqader Lina , Amer Rawan , Alyousef Ahmad Mohammad Samer , Alhajeh Yasmine Fawaz , Alyoussef Abdullah , Eid Hadeer Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed , Elsayed Maab Mohamed , Desouky Eman D. El , Salem Hosni Khairy , Salem Marwa Rashad
Published: June 2023

Background

Knowing what to eat and realizing the significance of healthful eating habits are among the important steps to promoting eating behavior. The current study aims to assess the nutrition knowledge (NK) among a convenient sample in four different countries, determine the association between different demographic factors and NK, and investigate the need for future interventions on nutrition in the four selected countries.

Methods

A cross-sectional multi-national survey study among a convenient sample of 8,191 subjects from Egypt, Syria, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan who undertook surveys between January 2019 and January 2020. A pre-tested interview questionnaire was utilized for data collection from study participants. It included three sections: i) Sociodemographic characteristics:. ii). Section two included twenty-one questions related to NK.. iii). Section three included one question about NK sources.

Results

About three-quarters showed inadequate nutrition knowledge (73.1%). Youth (15–24 yrs.) were more dependent on social media, with 87% using it as a primary source of NK, while adults (≥ 25 yrs.) demonstrated that 43% of them used social media. In contrast, TV was more prominent among them, with participants’ characteristics such as living with parents, body mass index, and country of residence showing no association with NK. However, female sex, education, and reading nutrition articles are significantly correlated with adequate knowledge (p < 0.001). Significant predictors of satisfactory knowledge were age, sex, education, living with parents, and reading nutrition articles.

Conclusion

The study revealed low levels of NK indicating an urgent need to implement educational programs to promote nutrition knowledge. As NK is a modifiable determinant of diet intake and can positively impact the need for developing strategies in counselling and raising awareness among the general population to improve their health status.
The Werther effect following the suicides of three korean celebrities (2017–2018): an ecological time-series study
Authors: Kim Li-Hyun , Lee Gyeong-Min , Lee Woo-Ri , Yoo Ki-Bong
Published: June 2023

Background

The suicide rate in Korea was the highest among the member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development(OECD) for 2013–2016 and 2018–2020. In korea, suicide was the leading cause of death among individuals aged 10–39, and the second leading cause of death for aged 40–59. Thus, this study aimed to examine the Werther effect of the suicides of three Korean idol singers (Jonghyun: December 18, 2017, Sulli: October 14, 2019, and Hara Gu: November 24, 2019).

Methods

The study conducted Poisson regression and used the cause-of-death statistics microdata from 2016 to 2020 provided by Statistics Korea. The case periods ranged from the day of the suicide of each celebrity to 10 weeks after. The control periods were all weeks from 2016 to 2020, excluding the case periods.

Results

The suicide rates in Korea significantly increased by 1.21, 1.30, and 1.28 times after the deaths of Jonghyun, Sulli, and Hara Gu, respectively. The Werther effect was more evident in women than men. Suicide rate among individuals aged 10–29 years was greater than those for other age groups.

Conclusions

This study confirmed that the rate of copycat suicides increased after three celebrity singers in Korea died by suicide. Nevertheless, the rate of suicide after the suicide of the three celebrity singers was lower than those in previous studies in Korea.
Child socioemotional behavior and adult temperament as predictors of physical activity and sedentary behavior in late adulthood
Authors: Ahola Johanna , Kokko Katja , Pulkkinen Lea , Kekäläinen Tiia
Published: June 2023

Background

Most studies investigating the association of temperament with physical activity and sedentary behavior have examined children or adolescents, employed cross-sectional or longitudinal designs that do not extend from childhood into adulthood, and utilized self- or parent-reported data on physical activity and sedentary behavior. This longitudinal study investigated whether socioemotional behavior in childhood and temperament in middle adulthood predict accelerometer-measured physical activity and sedentary behavior in late adulthood.

Methods

This study was based on the Jyväskylä Longitudinal Study of Personality and Social Development (JYLS). Socioemotional behavior (behavioral activity, well-controlled behavior, negative emotionality) was assessed at age 8 based on teacher ratings, whereas temperament (surgency, effortful control, negative affectivity, orienting sensitivity) was assessed at age 42 based on self-rating. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and sedentary behavior were assessed at age 61 using an accelerometer. Data (N = 142) were analyzed using linear regression analysis.

Results

In women, behavioral activity at age 8 predicted higher levels of daily sedentary behavior at age 61. The association did not remain statistically significant after controlling for participant’s occupational status. In addition, women’s negative affectivity at age 42 predicted lower daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity at age 61, particularly during leisure time. No statistically significant results were observed in men.

Conclusions

Although few weak associations of socioemotional behavior and temperament with physical activity and sedentary behavior were detected in women, they were observed over several decades, and thus, deserve attention in future studies. In addition to other factors contributing to physical activity and sedentary behavior, health professionals may be sensitive to individual characteristics, such as a tendency to experience more negative emotions, when doing health counseling or planning for health-promoting interventions targeting physical activity and sedentary behavior.
“We don’t need no education” – a qualitative study of barriers to continuous medical education among Danish general practitioners
Authors: Ibsen Helle , Lillevang Gunver , Søndergaard Jens , Kjaer Niels Kristian
Published: June 2023

Background

Continuous medical education is essential for the individual patient care, the society, and the wellbeing of the general practitioner. There has been research into the reasons for participation in continuous medical education, but little is known about the barriers to participation. To tailor continuous medical education targeting general practitioners who are currently deselecting education, systematic knowledge of the barriers is needed.

Continuous medical education can in addition to professional growth stimulate job satisfaction, diminish burnout, and reinforce feelings of competence. Continuous medical education may have positive implications for patients and for healthcare expenditures.

Despite renumeration and a comprehensive continuous education model some Danish general practitioners do not participate in continuous medical education.

Methods

From a total of 3440 Danish general practitioners 243 did not apply for reimbursement for accredited continuous medical education in a two-year period. Ten general practitioners were selected for an interview regarding maximum variation in practice form, number of listed patients, seniority as a general practitioner, geography, gender, and age. All ten selected general practitioners accepted to be interviewed. The interviews were analysed using Systematic Text Condensation.

Results

Each of the ten interviewed general practitioners mentioned several barriers for participating in continuous education. The barriers fell into three main categories:

barriers related to the individual general practitioner

barriers related to the clinic

barriers related to the accredited continuous medical education offered

Conclusions

Approximately 7% of the Danish general practitioners did not participate in accredited remunerated continuous medical education. A knowledge of the barriers for participating in accredited continuous medical education can be used to better target continuous medical education to the general practitioners.
Work-related psychosocial challenges and coping strategies among nursing workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review
Authors: Iddrisu Merri , Poku Collins Atta , Mensah Eva , Attafuah Priscilla Y. A. , Dzansi Gladys , Adjorlolo Samuel
Published: June 2023

Background

Nurses and midwives have been stretched by the COVID-19 pandemic amidst the heroic roles they have played during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses stood tall among their peers in the healthcare industry saving lives. The pandemic has had a toll on nurses physically, psychologically, and socio-economically. The numerous deaths have traumatized nurses coupled with the fear of possible infection. Nurses have seen their colleagues and loved ones lose their lives to the pandemic, nevertheless, they still render care to patients no matter the circumstances. Due to that, it is imperative to ascertain the extent to which nurses who are much needed in healthcare delivery have been affected by this pandemic. This scoping review used Arksey and O’Malley’s review methodology to investigate the nature of work-related psychosocial challenges nurses encountered during the peak of the pandemic, noting the major contributors to the challenges and the coping strategies used to address them.

Methods

We performed a scoping review and searched for articles from five databases including PUBMED, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, and Grey literature from December 2019 to December 2021. A total of 7,334 articles were retrieved for the study but 45 met the inclusion criteria.

Results

Work-related psychosocial challenges identified included stress, burnout (emotional exhaustion and depersonalization), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, sleeplessness, and anxiety. Factors that accounted for the challenges were inadequate personal protective equipment (PPEs), discomfort using the PPEs, extreme workload, and fatigue. Nurses experienced job insecurity, business closure, and separation from family and loved ones, and these contributed to their challenges. Strategies used to deal with the challenges centred on emotion-focused and problem-focused coping.

Conclusions

The study recommends regular counselling and support for all nurses working at the frontline to help them better cope with the devastating effects of the pandemic so that they could build resilience towards future pandemics.
Emotional empowerment through information research and communication to reduce fear of COVID-19 among nursing students: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mayor-Silva L. Iván , Moreno Guillermo , Girón-Daviña Pedro R. , Mohamedi-Abdelkader Samir , Hernández-Martín Marta M. , Moreno-Pimentel Antonio G. , Meneses-Monroy Alfonso
Published: June 2023

Background

Despite an existing body of literature on anxiety reduction using multi-component methods, little is known about the effect of active student participation in research and communication of scientific information on anxiety and fear reduction. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of quality scientific information research and the production of informative videos on the preventive aspects of COVID-19 on fear and anxiety reduction.

Methods

A randomised controlled trial was conducted with 220 undergraduate nursing students in the first year of the nursing degree. The participating students were randomised into two groups. The experimental group carried out an intervention based on a database search for information on preventing COVID-19 and production of a video giving scientific reasons why prevention measures should be followed. In the control group, students created posters and videos about theoretical aspects of one module of the nursing degree. Both groups were surveyed before and after the intervention, measuring their state of resilience, preventive behaviours, level of anxiety, and fear of COVID-19.

Results

The intervention group showed a greater decrease in fear levels after the intervention than those in the control group. There were no differences between the groups in terms of resilience, preventive behaviours, or anxiety. In the experimental group, there was a significant decrease in anxiety levels and fear levels after the intervention compared to the baseline levels.

Conclusions

An intervention based on active participation in searches for high-quality scientific information and production of information videos on COVID-19 prevention reduced fear and anxiety caused by COVID-19 among nursing students.

Trial registration

We have retrospectively registered the trial in Open Science Framework and the identification number is https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/6QU5S.
Nurses’ perceptions, experiences, and practices regarding human papillomavirus vaccination: results from a cross-sectional survey in Montana
Authors: Thaker Juthika , Albers Alexandria N. , Newcomer Sophia R.
Published: June 2023

Background

Nationally, much of the focus on improving human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake has been on effective strategies that physicians use to promote vaccination. However, in large, predominately rural states like Montana, nurses and medical assistants play critical roles in immunization services delivery, and their viewpoints are imperative in designing strategies to increase vaccination rates. We conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive study to determine nurses’ perceptions, experiences, and practices regarding human papillomavirus vaccination in a rural and medically underserved region of the United States.

Methods

We designed, pilot-tested, and disseminated an online survey instrument to nurses and medical assistants working in clinics participating in the Vaccines for Children program in Montana. The online surveys were administered from November 2020 to March 2021. Survey questions focused on clinic vaccination practices, respondents’ perceptions of the HPV vaccine, perceived barriers to vaccine uptake, and general opinions on potential strategies to improve HPV vaccination rates.

Results

We analyzed data from 227 respondents. Overall, 90% of nurses strongly agreed or agreed that the HPV vaccine is important and had confidence in the vaccine’s safety. More nurses reported experiencing greater parental vaccine refusal or delay for male patients regardless of age. About 53.7% of nurses reported that their clinics had reminder/recall systems to encourage parents to bring their children for vaccination. Nurses identified misinformation from social media, infrequent wellness visits, and vaccine safety concerns as barriers to HPV vaccine uptake.

Conclusions

Study findings identified several promising initiatives to accelerate vaccination in primarily rural states like Montana, including promoting widespread adoption of reminder/recall systems, training nurses in evidence-based techniques to provide strong vaccine recommendations, and leveraging social media to disseminate consistent messages about the HPV vaccine recommendations for both sexes and its role in cancer prevention.
Global patterns of genomic and phenotypic variation in the invasive harlequin ladybird
Authors: Li Hongran , Peng Yan , Wang Yansong , Summerhays Bryce , Shu Xiaohan , Vasquez Yumary , Vansant Hannah , Grenier Christy , Gonzalez Nicolette , Kansagra Khyati , Cartmill Ryan , Sujii Edison Ryoiti , Meng Ling , Zhou Xuguo , Lövei Gábor L. , Obrycki John J. , Sethuraman Arun , Li Baoping
Published: June 2023

Background

The harlequin ladybirdHarmonia axyridis(Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), native to Asia, has been introduced to other major continents where it has caused serious negative impacts on local biodiversity. Though notable advances to understand its invasion success have been made during the past decade, especially with then newer molecular tools, the conclusions reached remain to be confirmed with more advanced genomic analyses and especially using more samples from larger geographical regions across the native range. Furthermore, althoughH. axyridisis one of the best studied invasive insect species with respect to life history traits (often comparing invasive and native populations), the traits responsible for its colonization success in non-native areas warrant more research.

Results

Our analyses of genome-wide nuclear population structure indicated that an eastern Chinese population could be the source of all non-native populations and revealed several putatively adaptive candidate genomic loci involved in body color variation, visual perception, and hemolymph synthesis. Our estimates of evolutionary history indicate (1) asymmetric migration with varying population sizes across its native and non-native range, (2) a recent admixture between eastern Chinese and American populations in Europe, (3) signatures of a large progressive, historical bottleneck in the common ancestors of both populations and smaller effective sizes of the non-native population, and (4) the southwest origin and subsequent dispersal routes within its native range in China. In addition, we found that while two mitochondrial haplotypes-Hap1 and Hap2 were dominant in the native range, Hap1 was the only dominant haplotype in the non-native range. Our laboratory observations in both China and USA found statistical yet slight differences between Hap1 and Hap2 in some of life history traits.

Conclusions

Our study onH.axyridisprovides new insights into its invasion processes into other major continents from its native Asian range, reconstructs a geographic range evolution across its native region China, and tentatively suggests that its invasiveness may differ between mitochondrial haplotypes.
Trajectories of cardiac troponin in the decades before cardiovascular death: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Kimenai Dorien M. , Anand Atul , de Bakker Marie , Shipley Martin , Fujisawa Takeshi , Lyngbakken Magnus N. , Hveem Kristian , Omland Torbjørn , Valencia-Hernández Carlos A. , Lindbohm Joni V. , Kivimaki Mika , Singh-Manoux Archana , Strachan Fiona E. , Shah Anoop S. V. , Kardys Isabella , Boersma Eric , Brunner Eric J. , Mills Nicholas L.
Published: June 2023

Background

High-sensitivity cardiac troponin testing is a promising tool for cardiovascular risk prediction, but whether serial testing can dynamically predict risk is uncertain. We evaluated the trajectory of cardiac troponin I in the years prior to a cardiovascular event in the general population, and determine whether serial measurements could track risk within individuals.

Methods

In the Whitehall II cohort, high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I concentrations were measured on three occasions over a 15-year period. Time trajectories of troponin were constructed in those who died from cardiovascular disease compared to those who survived or died from other causes during follow up and these were externally validated in the HUNT Study. A joint model that adjusts for cardiovascular risk factors was used to estimate risk of cardiovascular death using serial troponin measurements.

Results

In 7,293 individuals (mean 58 ± 7 years, 29.4% women) cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular death occurred in 281 (3.9%) and 914 (12.5%) individuals (median follow-up 21.4 years), respectively. Troponin concentrations increased in those dying from cardiovascular disease with a steeper trajectory compared to those surviving or dying from other causes in Whitehall and HUNT (Pinteraction < 0.05 for both). The joint model demonstrated an independent association between temporal evolution of troponin and risk of cardiovascular death (HR per doubling, 1.45, 95% CI,1.33–1.75).

Conclusions

Cardiac troponin I concentrations increased in those dying from cardiovascular disease compared to those surviving or dying from other causes over the preceding decades. Serial cardiac troponin testing in the general population has potential to track future cardiovascular risk.
Melatonin blunted the angiogenic activity in 3D colon cancer tumoroids by the reduction of endocan
Authors: Narmi Maryam Taghavi , Shoja Hanieh Mohajjel , Haiaty Sanya , Mahdipour Mahdi , Rahbarghazi Reza
Published: June 2023

Background

Complexity and heterogeneity of the tumor niche are closely associated with the failure of therapeutic protocols. Unfortunately, most data have been obtained from conventional 2D culture systems which are not completely comparable to in vivo microenvironments. Reconstructed 3D cultures composed of multiple cells are valid cell-based tumor models to recapitulate in vivo-like interaction between the cancer cells and stromal cells and the oncostatic properties of therapeutics. Here, we aimed to assess the tumoricidal properties of melatonin on close-to-real colon cancer tumoroids in in vitro conditions.

Methods

Using the hanging drop method, colon cancer tumoroids composed of three cell lines, including adenocarcinoma HT-29 cells, fibroblasts (HFFF2), and endothelial cells (HUVECs) at a ratio of 2: 1: 1, respectively were developed using 2.5% methylcellulose. Tumoroids were exposed to different concentrations of melatonin, from 0.005 to 0.8 mM and 4 to 10 mM, for 48 h. The survival rate was measured by MTT and LDH leakage assays. Protein levels of endocan and VEGF were assessed using western blotting. Using histological examination (H & E) staining, the integrity of cells within the tumoroid parenchyma was monitored.

Results

Despite the reduction of viability rate in lower doses, the structure of tumoroids remained unchanged. In contrast, treatment of tumoroids with higher doses of melatonin, 4 and 10 mM, led to disaggregation of cells and reduction of tumoroid diameter compared to the non-treated control tumoroids (p < 0.05). By increasing melatonin concentration from 4 to 10 mM, the number of necrotic cells increased. Data showed the significant suppression of endocan in melatonin-treated tumoroids related to the non-treated controls (p < 0.05). According to our data, melatonin in higher doses did not alter protein levels of VEGF (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Melatonin can exert its tumoricidal properties on colon cancer tumoroids via the reduction of tumor cell viability and inhibition of the specific pro-angiogenesis factor.
The application of composite scaffold materials based on decellularized vascular matrix in tissue engineering: a review
Authors: Li Jingying , Chen Xiao , Hu Miaoling , Wei Jian , Nie Minhai , Chen Jiana , Liu Xuqian
Published: June 2023

Decellularized vascular matrix is a natural polymeric biomaterial that comes from arteries or veins which are removed the cellular contents by physical, chemical and enzymatic means, leaving only the cytoskeletal structure and extracellular matrix to achieve cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation and creating a suitable microenvironment for their growth. In recent years, the decellularized vascular matrix has attracted much attention in the field of tissue repair and regenerative medicine due to its remarkable cytocompatibility, biodegradability and ability to induce tissue regeneration. Firstly, this review introduces its basic properties and preparation methods; then, it focuses on the application and research of composite scaffold materials based on decellularized vascular matrix in vascular tissue engineering in terms of current in vitro and in vivo studies, and briefly outlines its applications in other tissue engineering fields; finally, it looks into the advantages and drawbacks to be overcome in the application of decellularized vascular matrix materials. In conclusion, as a new bioactive material for building engineered tissue and repairing tissue defects, decellularized vascular matrix will be widely applied in prospect.
Cross-cultural translation, reliability and validity of the Thai version of the Patient‑Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Parent Proxy Upper Extremity Short Form 8a in children with congenital upper extremity anomalies
Authors: Luangjarmekorn Pobe , Sitthisen Pongsathorn , Kuptniratsaikul Vanasiri , Kitidumrongsook Pravit
Published: June 2023

Background

The PROMIS Parent Proxy Upper Extremity Short Form 8a version 2 (PROMIS Parent Proxy UE-SF) is one of the most commonly used self-assessment questionnaires for evaluating function in children with congenital upper extremity anomalies. However, this English questionnaire is difficult for Thai parents to complete. The purpose of this study is to translate the PROMIS Parent Proxy UE-SF into Thai and test its reliability and validity.

Methods

The PROMIS Parent Proxy UE-SF was translated into Thai using FACIT translation methodology. This version and the Thai version of the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (Thai-MHQ) were used to evaluate 30 Thai children with different types of congenital upper extremity anomalies. The reliability and validity of the Thai-PROMIS Parent Proxy UE-SF were evaluated by test-and-retest with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Correlations between the Thai-PROMIS Parent Proxy UE-SF and Thai-MHQ were analysed by Pearson’s correlation coefficients.

Results

The children’s mean age was 4.47 ± 2.08 years (range 1–9 years). The main diagnoses included thumb duplication (11 children), syndactyly (4 children)4, congenital trigger thumb (3 children) and obstetric brachial plexus palsy (3 children). The children’s parents completed the questionnaires, taking 164.23 ± 22.58 s for the Thai-PROMIS and 337.8 ± 49.37 s for the Thai-MHQ. The test-retest reliability of Thai-PROMIS evaluated by ICCs, was 0.9909 (good reliability), and the Cronbach’s alpha of all items was 0.923. The Pearson’s correlation coefficient between the Thai-PROMIS and Thai-MHQ showed a strong correlation with Domain 2 (activities of daily living, r = 0.7432) and a moderate correlation with the overall Thai-MHQ score (r = 0.699).

Conclusions

The Thai-PROMIS Parent Proxy UE-SF is a valid, reliable and easy-to-use patient-reported outcome measure for assessing function in children with congenital upper extremity anomalies.
Efficacy of using Maryland forceps versus electrocoagulation hooks in da Vinci robot-assisted thoracoscopic mediastinal tumor resection
Authors: Hong Ziqiang , Bai Xiangdou , Sheng Yannan , Cui Baiqiang , Lu Yingjie , Cheng Tao , Wu Xusheng , Jin Dacheng , Gou Yunjiu , Zhao Jing
Published: June 2023

Background

To compare the difference of short-term curative effect between the use of Maryland forceps (MF) and electrocoagulation hooks (EH) in da Vinci robot-assisted thoracoscopic mediastinal tumor resection.

Methods

Retrospectively analyze 84 patients with mediastinal tumors who underwent robot-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS) at the Department of Thoracic Surgery in Gansu Provincial Hospital from February 2019 to February 2023. Two groups were divided according to the intraoperative use of energy devices, including 41 cases in the MF group and 43 cases in the EH group. Perioperative clinical data was gathered to compare the short-term efficacy of patients in both groups.

Results

There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics such as sex (P = 0.685), age (P = 0.165), and tumor size (P = 0.339) between the two groups. Compared with the EH group, patients in the MF group have shorter operative time (P = 0.030), less intraoperative bleeding (P = 0.010), less total postoperative drainage volume (P = 0.001), shorter postoperative drainage time (P = 0.022), shorter hospital stay (P = 0.019), and lower levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and cortisol. No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of total hospitalization costs (P = 0.123), postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores (P = 0.064), and postoperative complications (P = 0.431).

Conclusion

Using MF in RATS for mediastinal tumor is safe and effective, which can reduce the amount of bleeding, reduce the degree of inflammatory reaction, and conducive to the quick recovery of patients.
Development of the WHO eye care competency framework
Authors: Yu Mitasha , Keel Stuart , Mariotti Silvio , Mills Jody-Anne , Müller Andreas
Published: June 2023

Background

The eye care workforce, particularly in lower resource settings, face challenges of limited integration into the health system, limited workforce capacity, mismatch of workforce to population need and poor quality of care. In recognition of these challenges, coupled with a gap in existing tools, provides a strong rationale for the development of the Eye care competency framework (ECCF).

Methods

A mixed methods approach was utilised to develop and validate the ECCF. Content was developed by extracting relevant components of existing frameworks used both within and outside of eye care. A diverse technical working group provided feedback and guidance on the structure, design, and content to create a preliminary draft. Competencies and activities were validated using a modified-Delphi study, and the framework was then piloted at four sites to understand how the tool can be implemented in different settings.

Results

The final version of the ECCF included eight outcomes, nine guiding principles, and content of each of the key elements, including the six domains, 22 competencies, 21 activities, 193 behaviours and 234 tasks, and the knowledge and skills that underpin them. 95/112 participants from the six WHO regions completed the modified-Delphi study, yielding an average of 96% agreement across the competencies and activities in the ECCF. The pilot showcased the versatility and flexibility of the ECCF, where each of the four sites had a different experience in implementing the ECCF. All sites found that the ECCF enabled them to identify gaps within their current workforce documentation.

Conclusions

The ECCF was developed using a collaborative approach, reflecting the opinions of participants and stakeholders from all around the world. The comprehensive competencies and activities developed in the ECCF encompass the diverse roles of eye care workers, and thus encourage multi-disciplinary care and better integration into the health system. It is recommended that eye care workforce planners and developers use the ECCF, and adapt it to their context, to support workforce development and focus on the quality and scope of eye care service provision.
Exploring the evidence base for Communities of Practice in health research and translation: a scoping review
Authors: James-McAlpine Janelle , Larkins Sarah , Nagle Cate
Published: June 2023

Background

The translation of research into healthcare practice relies on effective communication between disciplines, however strategies to address the gap between information sharing and knowledge transfer are still under exploration. Communities of Practice (CoP) are informal networks of stakeholders with shared knowledge or endeavour and present an opportunity to address this gap beyond disciplinary boundaries. However, the evidence-base supporting their development, implementation and efficacy in health is not well described. This review explores the evidence underpinning the use of CoP in health research and translation.

Methods

A scoping review was undertaken using Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework. A comprehensive search of health databases and grey literature was performed using keywords and controlled vocabulary. Studies were not restricted by date or research method.

Results

A total of 1355 potentially relevant articles were identified through the global search strategy. Following screening, six articles were retained for analysis. Included studies were published between 2002 and 2013 in the United Kingdom (n = 3), Canada (n = 2) and Italy (n = 1). Three papers reported primary research; one used a quantitative methodology, one a qualitative, and one a descriptive evaluation approach. The three remaining papers explored seminal and evolving theories of CoP in the context of knowledge transfer and translation to the health sector.

Conclusions

A paucity of evidence exists regarding the development and efficacy of CoP in health research and translation. Further empirical research is required to determine if communities of practice can enhance the translation of research into clinical practice.
The Cameroon Health Research and Evidence Database (CAMHRED): tools and methods for local evidence mapping
Authors: Ongolo-Zogo Clémence , El-Khechen Hussein , Morfaw Frederick , Djiadjeu Pascal , Zani Babalwa , Darzi Andrea , Nji Paul Wankah , Nyambi Agatha , Youta Andrea , Zaman Faiyaz , Youmbi Cheikh Tchouambou , Siani Ines Ndzana , Mbuagbaw Lawrence
Published: June 2023

Background

Local evidence is important for contextualized knowledge translation. It can be used to adapt global recommendations, to identify future research priorities and inform local policy decisions. However, there are challenges in identifying local evidence in a systematic, comprehensive, and timely manner. There is limited guidance on how to map local evidence and provide it to users in an accessible and user-friendly way. In this study, we address these issues by describing the methods for the development of a centralized database of health research evidence for Cameroon and its applications for research prioritization and decision making.

Methods

We searched 10 electronic health databases and hand-searched the archives of non-indexed African and Cameroonian journals. We screened titles, abstracts, and full texts of peer reviewed journal articles published between 1999 and 2019 in English or French that assess health related outcomes in Cameroonian populations. We extracted relevant study characteristics based on a pre-established guide. We developed a coding scheme or taxonomy of content areas so that local evidence is mapped to corresponding domains and subdomains. Pairs of reviewers coded articles independently and resolved discrepancies by consensus. Moreover, we developed guidance on how to search the database, use search results to create evidence maps and conduct knowledge gap analyses.

Results

The Cameroon Health Research and Evidence Database (CAMHRED) is a bilingual centralized online portal of local evidence on health in Cameroon from 1999 onwards. It currently includes 4384 studies categorized into content domains and study characteristics (design, setting, year and language of publication). The database is searchable by keywords or through a guided search. Results including abstracts, relevant study characteristics and bibliographic information are available for users to download. Upon request, guidance on how to optimize search results for applications like evidence maps and knowledge gap analyses is also available.

Conclusions

CAMHRED (https://camhred.org/) is a systematic, comprehensive, and centralized resource for local evidence about health in Cameroon. It is freely available to stakeholders and provides an additional resource to support their work at various levels in the research process.
Scutellaria baicalensis enhances 5-fluorouracil-based chemotherapy via inhibition of proliferative signaling pathways
Authors: Liu Haizhou , Liu Hui , Zhou Zhiyi , Chung Jessica , Zhang Guojing , Chang Jin , Parise Robert A. , Chu Edward , Schmitz John C.
Published: June 2023

Fluoropyridine-based chemotherapy remains the most widely used treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we investigated the mechanism by which the natural product Scutellaria baicalensis (Huang Qin; HQ) and one of its main components baicalin enhanced 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) antitumor activity against CRC. Cell proliferation assays, cell cycle analysis, reverse-phase protein array (RPPA) analysis, immunoblot analysis, and qRT-PCR were performed to investigate the mechanism(s) of action of HQ and its active components on growth of CRC cells. HQ exhibited in vitro antiproliferative activity against drug resistant human CRC cells, against human and mouse CRC cells with different genetic backgrounds and normal human colon epithelial cells. In vivo animal models were used to document the antitumor activity of HQ and baicalin. The mechanism of growth inhibitory activity of HQ is due to inhibition of proliferative signaling pathways including the CDK-RB pathway. In addition, HQ enhanced the antitumor effects of 5-FU and capecitabine in vivo. Furthermore, we identified baicalin as an active component of HQ. The combination of baicalin and 5-FU demonstrated synergistic activity against 5-FU-resistant RKO-R10 cells. The combination significantly inhibited in vivo tumor growth greater than each treatment alone. RPPA results showed that the signaling pathway alterations in CRC cells were similar following HQ and baicalin treatment. Together, these results indicate that HQ and its component baicalin enhance the effect of 5-fluorouracil-based chemotherapy via inhibition of CDK-RB pathway. These findings may provide the rational basis for developing agents that can overcome the development of cellular drug resistance.
Induction of filopodia formation by α-Actinin-2 via RelA with a feedforward activation loop promoting overt bone marrow metastasis of gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Caiqin , Xie Bo , Yin Shi , Cao Jianghua , Huang Junhao , Jin Longyang , Du Ge , Zhai Xiaohui , Zhang Rongqin , Li Shanshan , Cao Taiyuan , Yu Hongen , Fan Xinjuan , Yang Zuli , Peng Junsheng , Xiao Jian , Lian Lei
Published: June 2023

Background

Bone marrow metastasis (BMM) is underestimated in gastric cancer (GC). GC with BMM frequently complicate critical hematological abnormalities like diffused intravascular coagulation and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, which constitute a highly aggressive GC (HAGC) subtype. HAGC present a very poor prognosis with peculiar clinical and pathological features when compared with not otherwise specified advanced GC (NAGC). But the molecular mechanisms underlying BMM from GC remain rudimentary.

Methods

The transcriptomic difference between HAGC and NAGC were analyzed. Genes that were specifically upregulated in HAGC were identified, and their effect on cell migration and invasion was studied. The function of ACTN2 gene were confirmed by GC cell lines, bone-metastatic animal model and patients’ tissues. Furthermore, the molecular mechanism of ACTN2 derived-BMM was explored by multiple immunofluorescence staining, western blot, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and luciferase reporter assays.

Results

We elucidated the key mechanisms of BMM depending on the transcriptomic difference between HAGC and NAGC. Five genes specifically upregulated in HAGC were assessed their effect on cell migration and invasion. The ACTN2 gene encoding protein α-Actinin-2 was detected enhanced the metastatic capability and induced BMM of GC cells in mouse models. Mechanically, α-Actinin-2 was involved in filopodia formation where it promoted the Actin filament cross-linking by replacing α-Actinin-1 to form α-Actinin-2:α-Actinin-4 complexes in GC cells. Moreover, NF-κB subunit RelA and α-Actinin-2 formed heterotrimers in the nuclei of GC cells. As a direct target of RelA:α-Actinin-2 heterotrimers, the ACTN2 gene was a positive auto-regulatory loop for α-Actinin-2 expression.

Conclusions

We demonstrated a link between filopodia, BMM and ACTN2 activation, where a feedforward activation loop between ACTN2 and RelA is established via actin in response to distant metastasis. Given the novel filopodia formation function and the new mechanism of BMM in GC, we propose ACTN2 as a druggable molecular vulnerability that may provide potential therapeutic benefit against BMM of GC.
Comparison of serum acylcarnitine levels in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and healthy controls: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jinushi Ryuhei , Masuda Sakue , Tanisaka Yuki , Nishiguchi Sho , Shionoya Kento , Sato Ryo , Sugimoto Kei , Shin Takahiro , Shiomi Rie , Fujita Akashi , Mizuide Masafumi , Ryozawa Shomei
Published: June 2023

Background

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome/systemic exertion intolerance disease (ME/CFS/SEID) is a condition diagnosed primarily based on clinical symptoms, including prolonged fatigue and post-exertional malaise; however, there is no specific test for the disease. Additionally, diagnosis can be challenging since healthcare professionals may lack sufficient knowledge about the disease. Prior studies have shown that patients with ME/CFS/SEID have low serum acylcarnitine levels, which may serve as a surrogate test for patients suspected of having this disease. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the differences in serum acylcarnitine levels between patients with ME/CFS/SEID and healthy controls.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted using PubMed and Ichushi-Web databases. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement, we included all studies from the databases’ inception until February 17, 2023, that evaluated blood tests in both patients with ME/CFS/SEID and healthy control groups. The primary endpoint was the difference in serum acylcarnitine levels between the two groups.

Results

The electronic search identified 276 studies. Among them, seven met the eligibility criteria. The serum acylcarnitine levels were analyzed in 403 patients with ME/CFS/SEID. The patient group had significantly lower serum acylcarnitine levels when compared with the control group, and the statistical heterogeneity was high.

Conclusion

The patient group had significantly lower serum acylcarnitine levels when compared with the control group. In the future, the measurement of serum acylcarnitine levels, in addition to clinical symptoms, may prove to be a valuable diagnostic tool for this condition.