bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term outcomes and predictors of vedolizumab persistence in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Gros Beatriz , Ross Hannah , Nwabueze Maureen , Constantine-Cooke Nathan , Derikx Lauranne A. A. P. , Lyons Mathew , O’Hare Claire , Noble Colin , Arnott Ian D. , Jones Gareth-Rhys , Lees Charlie W. , Plevris Nikolas
Published: July 2024

Background:

Long-term vedolizumab (VDZ) outcomes in real-world cohorts have been largely limited to 1-year follow-up, with few bio-naïve patients or objective markers of inflammation assessed.

Objectives:

We aimed to assess factors affecting VDZ persistence including clinical, biochemical and faecal biomarker remission at 1, 3 and 5 years.

Design:

We performed a retrospective, observational, cohort study.

Methods:

All adult inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients who had received VDZ induction for ulcerative colitis (UC)/IBD-unclassified (IBDU) were included. Baseline phenotype and follow-up data were collected via a review of electronic medical records.

Results:

We included 290 patients [UC n = 271 (93.4%), IBDU n = 19 (6.6%)] with a median time on VDZ of 27.6 months (interquartile range: 14.4–43.2). At the end of follow-up, a total of 157/290 (54.1%) patients remained on VDZ. The median time to discontinuation was 14.1 months (7.0–23.3). Previous exposure to ⩾1 advanced therapy, steroid use at baseline and disease extension (E3 and E2 versus E1) were independent predictors for worse VDZ persistence. Clinical remission (partial Mayo < 2) was 75.7% (171/226), 72.4% (157/217) and 70.2% (127/181) at years 1, 3 and 5, respectively. Steroid use during maintenance VDZ therapy occurred in 31.7% (92/290), hospitalization in 15.5% (45/290) and surgery in 3.4% (10/291). The rate of serious adverse events was 1.2 per 100 patient-years of follow-up.

Conclusion:

VDZ effectiveness appears enduring with favourable long-term safety profile. VDZ persistence was influenced by previous exposure to biologics/small molecules, disease distribution and steroid use at baseline in our study.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of 11 pharmacotherapies for recurrent glioblastoma in the USA and China
Authors: Xu Yanan , Xu Boya , Guan Haijing , Zhao Zhigang
Published: July 2024

Background:

Several studies have systematically assessed the efficacy and safety of progressive or recurrent glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). However, the discernible limitations of efficacy and the elevated costs of interventions instigate an investigation into the cost-effectiveness of these treatments.

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate cost-effectivenesses of 11 pharmacotherapeutic interventions for recurrent GBM from the perspective of healthcare payers in the United States (US) and China.

Design:

A model-based pharmacoeconomic evaluation.

Methods:

A partitioned survival model was employed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of 11 distinct drug-based treatments. The clinical efficacy and safety data were obtained from a network meta-analysis, while the medical expenditure and health utility were primarily derived from published literature. One-way sensitivity analyses, scenario analyses, and probabilistic sensitivity analyses (PSA) were performed to scrutinize the impact of potential uncertainties to ensure the robustness of the model. The primary endpoint was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio.

Results:

Among the therapeutic interventions evaluated, lomustine emerged as the cheapest option, with costs amounting to $78,998 in the United States and $30,231 in China, respectively. Regorafenib displayed the highest quality-adjusted life years at 0.475 in the United States and 0.465 in China. The one-way sensitivity analyses underscored that drug price was a key factor influencing cost-effectiveness. Both scenario and PSA consistently demonstrated that, considering the willingness-to-pay thresholds, lomustine was a cost-effective treatment with probability of more than 94%.

Conclusion:

In comparison to the alternative antitumor agents, lomustine was likely to be a cost-effective option for relapsed GBM patients from the perspective of healthcare payers in both the United States and China.
A pooled analysis of clinical outcome in driver-gene negative non-small cell lung cancer patients with MET overexpression treated with gumarontinib
Authors: Yu Yongfeng , Dong Wen , Shi Yanxia , Wu Rong , Yu Qitao , Ye Feng , Zhou Chengzhi , Dong Xiaorong , Li Xingya , Li Yongsheng , Li Zhen , Wu Lin , Pan Yueyin , Shen Hong , Wu Dehua , Xu Zhongyuan , Wu Jinsheng , Xu Nong , Qin Yanru , Zang Aimin , Zhang Jingdong , Zhou Jianya , Zhang Xiaotao , Zhao Yanqiu , Li Fugen , Wang Huizhen , Liu Qi , Han Zhenyong , Li Jin , Lu Shun
Published: July 2024

Background:

MET overexpression represents the most MET aberration in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, except MET exon 14 ( METex14) skipping mutation was recognized as a clinical biomarker, the role of MET overexpression as a predictive factor to MET inhibitor is not clear.

Objectives:

The purpose of the pooled analysis is to explore the safety and efficiency of gumarontinib, a highly selective oral MET inhibitor, in drive-gene negative NSCLC patients with MET overexpression.

Design and methods:

NSCLC patients with MET overexpression [immunohistochemistry (IHC) ⩾3+ as determined by central laboratory] not carrying epidermal growth factor receptor mutation, METex14 skipping mutation or other known drive gene alternations who received Gumarontinib 300 mg QD from two single arm studies were selected and pooled for the analysis. The efficacy [objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), duration of response, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS)] and safety [treatment emergent adverse event (TEAE), treatment related AE (TRAE) and serious AE (SAE) were assessed.

Results:

A total of 32 patients with MET overexpression were included in the analysis, including 12 treatment naïve patients who refused or were unsuitable for chemotherapy, and 20 pre-treated patients who received ⩾1 lines of prior systemic anti-tumour therapies. Overall, the ORR was 37.5% [95% confidence interval (CI): 21.1–56.3%], the DCR was 81.3% (95% CI: 63.6–92.8%), median PFS (mPFS) and median OS (mOS) were 6.9 month (95% CI: 3.6–9.7) and 17.0 month (95% CI: 10.3–not evaluable), respectively. The most common AEs were oedema (59.4%), hypoalbuminaemia (40.6%), alanine aminotransferase increased (31.3%).

Conclusion:

Gumarontinib showed promising antitumour activity in driver-gene negative locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC patients with MET overexpression, which warranted a further clinical trial.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03457532; NCT04270591.
Efficacy of ferric carboxymaltose or darbepoetin alfa for chemotherapy-induced anemia in patients with esophagogastric or pancreaticobiliary cancer: a retrospective comparative study
Authors: Cho Minkwan , Park Eunkyung , Lee Yong-Pyo , Kim Hongsik , Park Hee Sue , Kim Hee Kyung , Yang Yaewon , Kwon Jihyun , Hyeong Lee Ki , Han Hye Sook
Published: July 2024

Background:

Esophagogastric and pancreaticobiliary cancers are associated with chronic blood loss, poor nutrition, and surgical interventions that interfere with iron absorption. Patients with these cancers often have a higher incidence of chemotherapy-induced anemia (CIA) than patients with other malignancies.

Objectives:

To investigate the efficacy of intravenous iron or erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESA) for CIA treatment in patients with esophagogastric or pancreaticobiliary cancer.

Design:

Retrospective, comparative chart review of patients with esophagogastric or pancreaticobiliary cancer who received ferric carboxymaltose (FCM), or darbepoetin alfa (DA), and myelosuppressive chemotherapy at Chungbuk National University Hospital between June 2018 and December 2022.

Methods:

To assess the efficacy of FCM or DA over time, data on hemoglobin (Hb) levels were collected from the time of administration of FCM or DA (baseline) until 6 months post-baseline, when available.

Results:

In total, 214 patients (124 in the FCM and 90 in the DA group) were included in the analysis. The FCM group had a higher maximum Hb level and Hb changes for 3 months (mean ± standard deviation) following FCM or DA administration from baseline than the DA group (11.3 ± 1.5 versus 10.9 ± 1.2 g/dL, p = 0.02 and 2.0 ± 1.4 versus 1.5 ± 1.1 g/dL, p = 0.004, respectively). The FCM group had a higher proportion of Hb responders than the DA group (83.9% versus 68.9%, p = 0.013). Based on multivariable analysis, only the CIA treatment group was a significant factor for Hb response (odds ratio = 2.06, 95% confidence interval = 1.05–4.06, p = 0.036).

Conclusion:

Both FCM and DA are effective, and FCM showed a higher Hb response than DA for CIA treatment in patients with esophagogastric or pancreaticobiliary cancer. Therefore, further randomized controlled trials should determine the optimal treatment for CIA in patients with these cancers undergoing myelosuppressive chemotherapy.
Analysis of surgical complexity and short-term prognostic indicators in NSCLC patients: neoadjuvant targeted therapy versus neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy
Authors: Wang Kun , Yi Hang , Lv Zhuoheng , Jin Donghui , Fu Li , Mao Yousheng
Published: July 2024

Background:

Neoadjuvant therapy improves survival benefits in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer but increases tissue density, presenting challenges for surgeons.

Objectives:

To compare the differences in surgical complexity and short-term prognostic outcomes between neoadjuvant targeted therapy (NTT) and neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy (NCI).

Design/methods:

This study enrolled 106 patients underwent curative surgery after neoadjuvant therapy between January 2020 and December 2023 at the National Cancer Center of China. Differences in surgical complexity and short-term prognostic outcomes between the two neoadjuvant therapy cohorts were evaluated. The pathological indicators such as pathological response rate and lymph node upstaging/downstaging were then analyzed.

Results:

In total, 33 patients underwent NTT and 73 underwent NCI preoperatively. Patients who received NTT showed a higher minimally invasive surgery rate (84.8% versus 53.4%, p < 0.01), shorter operative time (144 versus 184 min, p < 0.01), lower conversion rate (3.3% versus 17.8%, p = 0.03), less postoperative drainage (day 3: 140 versus 200 mL, p = 0.03), and lower incidence of postoperative complications including arrhythmias (6.1% versus 26%, p = 0.02). The pathological response rate in the NTT and NCI groups was 70% and 75%, respectively, with the latter group showing a higher complete pathological response rate. The two groups had no significant differences in major pathological response and lymph node pathological response rate.

Conclusion:

Patients who received NTT presented fewer surgical challenges for surgeons and had better surgical outcomes than those who received NCI therapy, with comparable pathological response rates between the two cohorts. Accordingly, NTT is the preferred induction regimen for patients harboring mutation status.
Research progress and future directions of immune checkpoint inhibitor combination therapy in advanced gastric cancer
Authors: He Puyi , Ma Long , Xu Bo , Wang Yunpeng , Li Xiaomei , Chen Hao , Li Yumin
Published: July 2024

In recent years, with the continuous development of molecular immunology, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have also been widely used in the treatment of gastric cancer, but they still face some challenges: The first is that only some people can benefit, the second is the treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) that occur during treatment, and the third is the emergence of varying degrees of drug resistance with long-term use. How to overcome these challenges, combined therapy based on ICIs has become one of the important strategies. This article summarizes the clinical application of ICIs combined with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy, thermotherapy, immune adjuvant, and dual immunotherapy and discusses the mechanism, and also summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of the current combination modalities and the potential research value. The aim of this study is to provide more and more optimized combination regimen for ICI combined therapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer and to provide reference for clinical and scientific research.
Unlocking Potential: Personalized Lifestyle Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes Through a Predictive Algorithm-Driven Digital Therapeutic
Authors: Kannenberg Swantje , Voggel Jenny , Thieme Nils , Witt Oliver , Pethahn Kim Lina , Schütt Morten , Sina Christian , Freckmann Guido , Schröder Torsten
Published: July 2024

Background:

We present a digital therapeutic (DTx) using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm to digitally personalize lifestyle interventions for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Method:

A study of 118 participants with non–insulin-treated T2D (HbA1c ≥ 6.5%) who were already receiving standard care and had a mean baseline (BL) HbA1c of 7.46% (0.93) used the DTx for three months to evaluate clinical endpoints, such as HbA1c, body weight, quality of life and app usage, for a pre-post comparison. The study also included an assessment of initial long-term data from a second use of the DTx.

Results:

After three months of using the DTx, there was an improvement of 0.67% HbA1c in the complete cohort and −1.08% HbA1c in patients with poorly controlled diabetes (BL-HbA1c ≥ 7.0%) compared with standard of care ( P < .001). The number of patients within the therapeutic target range (< 7.0%) increased from 38% to 60%, and 33% were on the way to remission (< 6.5%). Patients who used the DTx a second time experienced a reduction of −0.76% in their HbA1c levels and a mean weight loss of −6.84 kg after six months ( P < .001) compared with BL.

Conclusions:

These results indicate that the DTx has clinically relevant effects on glycemic control and weight reduction for patients with both well and poorly controlled diabetes, whether through single or repeated usage. It is a noteworthy improvement in T2D management, offering a non-pharmacological, fully digital solution that integrates biofeedback through CGM and an advanced AI algorithm.
Opposing Misperceptions of Wealth: Liberals Overestimate Their Neighborhoods’ Wealth in Wealthier Neighborhoods While Conservatives Overestimate Their Neighborhoods’ Wealth in Poor Neighborhoods
Authors: Lilly Kieren J. , Dawtry Rael , Sutton Robbie M. , Sibley Chris G. , Osborne Danny
Published: July 2024

Although perceptions of wealth are shaped by people’s social environment and ideological beliefs, few studies integrate these two perspectives. We address this oversight by examining the association between participants’ actual and estimated average neighborhood household income and whether political orientation moderates this relationship. Using a large, nationwide random sample of New Zealand adults ( N = 14,853), our results reveal that both liberals and conservatives overestimated the wealth of their own neighborhoods—but these differences only emerged in the poorest and wealthiest neighborhoods. Specifically, in poor neighborhoods, conservatives were less accurate than liberals at estimating the average income of their neighborhood. In rich neighborhoods, liberals were less accurate than conservatives at this same task. The implications of these results for understanding (mis)perceptions of wealth on both sides of the political spectrum are discussed.
Transient non rate related left bundle branch block in thyrotoxicosis: A case report
Authors: Muhamad Nur Izat , Subramaniam Rajiv , Othman Mohd Khairi , Yusof Zurkurnai , Wan Mohamed Wan Izani , W Isa W Yus Hanif
Published: July 2024

Thyrotoxicosis is a common condition that is associated with cardiovascular complications. The most common complications that occurs are heart failure and cardiac arrhythmias. Cardiac arrhythmias due to thyrotoxicosis negatively affect the cardiovascular system at the cellular and molecular levels. The commonest cardiac arrhythmias are sinus tachycardia and atrial fibrillation. Left bundle branch block as a presentation of thyrotoxicosis is rare. We are reporting a case of a patient with a transient left bundle branch block as a thyrotoxicosis manifestation that was resolved after the thyroid status was normalized.
A case report of refractory advanced-stage mycosis fungoides: successful treatment and improved patient quality of life with mogamulizumab
Authors: Frischhut Nina , Nguyen Van Anh
Published: July 2024

Mycosis fungoides (MF), the most common form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, is characterized by patches, plaques, and, in advanced stages, tumors and erythroderma. Early-stage MF may progress to advanced-stage disease in up to one-third of patients, conferring a worse prognosis and typically requiring systemic treatment for extracutaneous involvement. The most frequently reported signs and symptoms are pain, pruritus, scaling, and skin redness, with pruritus, the most bothersome symptom, exerting a profound impact on patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL). These dermatologic signs and symptoms can overlap with those of other benign inflammatory dermatoses, such as eczema and psoriasis, and therefore, diagnostic delay is common in patients with MF. Moreover, identifying patients with features adversely affecting prognosis (e.g. large-cell transformation or folliculotropic variant) is a significant challenge. We report the case of a 75-year-old female patient who was misdiagnosed with eczema and then pityriasis rubra pilaris and consequently did not receive treatment for MF for 4 years. The patient was eventually correctly diagnosed with MF [stage IIIB (T4 N1 M0 B1)] in September 2018. The patient received several systemic treatments; however, she did not respond to or tolerate the treatments. Due to lack of treatment response, in July 2021, she was initiated on mogamulizumab, an anti-CC chemokine receptor 4 antibody with demonstrated effectiveness and licensed approval for adults with MF/Sézary syndrome who have received one or more prior systemic therapies. Treatment rapidly led to a complete response in blood after 1 week and in skin after 4 months. Mogamulizumab was well tolerated by the patient, who also reported a significant improvement in her HRQoL. After 1 year in complete response, mogamulizumab was discontinued. This case highlights the need for accurate and early diagnosis of MF to initiate disease-specific treatment and the importance of considering patient HRQoL when treating this condition.
Dynamic loading response of an additively produced bio-inspired nacre structure with foam and acrylic filling
Authors: Adithya RN , Ganapathy Sakthi Balan , Sakthivel Aravind Raj , Sultan Mohamed Thariq Hameed , Shahar Farah Syazwani
Published: July 2024

Numerous structures gain inspiration from nature and have been effectively incorporated into different applications such as automobiles and airplanes. In order to effectively withstand impact loads and achieve efficient energy absorption, it is necessary to incorporate appropriate structures along with suitable filler materials. This study examines the energy absorption capacities of a nacre structured core with foam filling at the central nacre cell cavities, as well as an acrylic filling at the top and bottom sides, under low velocity impacts. The design of experiments involved identifying and varying three important design parameters which influence the energy absorption behavior of the composites. Subsequently, fillers were incorporated and the specimens were subjected to drop weight testing. The composite material exhibited minimal deformations while absorbing a maximum energy of 40.87 J. Therefore, it proved that this composite could withstand dynamic impact loads in the absence of fiber face sheets, and adhesion between the PLA-carbon fiber and acrylic fill was also improved under these conditions. The higher energy absorption behavior was obtained due to the intermittent force transfer in the transverse direction due to the presence of the cross webs on the top and bottom of the composite plate. The alternate arrangement of the hard and flexible materials in the composite leads to the suppression of the stress step by step which results in high energy absorption behavior. In order to achieve optimal energy absorption with minimized deformations, the core structure must possess a nacre wall thickness of 2 mm with double cross web design.
Interventions and impact of pharmacist-delivered services in perioperative setting on clinically important outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Naseralallah Lina , Koraysh Somaya , Aboujabal Bodoor , Alasmar May
Published: July 2024

Background:

The perioperative arena is a unique and challenging environment that requires coordination of the complex processes and involvement of the entire care team. Pharmacists’ scope of practice has been evolving to be patient-centered and to expand to variety of settings including perioperative settings.

Objectives:

To critically appraise, synthesize, and present the available evidence of the characteristics and impact of pharmacist-led interventions on clinically important outcomes in the perioperative settings.

Design:

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

We searched PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL from index inception to September 2023. Included studies compared the effectiveness of pharmacist-led interventions on clinically important outcomes (e.g. length of stay, readmission) compared to usual care in perioperative settings. Two independent reviewers extracted the data using the DEPICT-2 (Descriptive Elements of Pharmacist Intervention Characterization Tool) and undertook quality assessment using the Crowe Critical Appraisal (CCAT). A random-effect model was used to estimate the overall effect [odds ratio (OR) for dichotomous and standard mean difference (SMD) for continuous data] with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results:

Twenty-five studies were eligible, 20 (80%) had uncontrolled study design. Most interventions were multicomponent and continuous over the perioperative period. The intervention components included clinical pharmacy services (e.g. medication management/optimization, medication reconciliation, discharge counseling) and education of healthcare professionals. While some studies provided a minor description in regards to the intervention development and processes, only one study reported a theoretical underpinning to intervention development. Pooled analyses showed a significant impact of pharmacist care compared to usual care on length of stay (11 studies; SMD −0.09; 95% CI −0.49 to −0.15) and all-cause readmissions (8 studies; OR 0.60; 95% CI 0.39–0.91). The majority of included studies ( n = 21; 84%) were of moderate quality.

Conclusion:

Pharmacist-led interventions are effective at improving clinically important outcomes in the perioperative setting; however, most studies were of moderate quality. Studies lacked the utilization of theory to develop interventions; therefore, it is not clear whether theory-derived interventions are more effective than those without a theoretical element. Future research should prioritize the development and evaluation of multifaceted theory-informed pharmacist interventions that target the whole surgical care pathway.
Lower urinary tract symptoms among male patients on hemodialysis: Prospective and multi-central cross-sectional study
Authors: Abushamma Faris , Zidan Enas , Douglass Zainab E , Jaber Anas , Nazzal Zaher , Hamdan Zakaria I , Ktaifan Mahfouz , Hashim Hashim
Published: July 2024

Background:

Lower urinary tract symptoms are common and can significantly impact quality of life, especially in men with co-morbidities and end-stage renal disease. The presence of lower urinary tract symptoms affect the quality of life of patients on hemodialysis.

Objectives:

The purpose of this study is assessing the presence and severity of lower urinary tract symptoms among male patients on hemodialysis. Factors that may exacerbate lower urinary tract symptoms were assessed and studied. The impact of lower urinary tract symptoms on quality of life was also identified.

Methods:

A prospective, multi-central, and cross-sectional study of male patients on hemodialysis was conducted. Demographics, clinical data, and core lower urinary tract symptoms score questionnaire were all collected. A correlation has been made between all variables.

Results:

One hundred forty-five patients were enrolled. Eighty-seven percent of hemodialysis patients had at least one storage symptom, and 85% had at least one voiding symptom. The prevalence of storage symptoms (frequency, nocturia, urgency, and urgency incontinence) was found to be 3%, 70%, 44%, and 12%, respectively. The voiding symptoms were mainly weak stream, straining, and incomplete emptying, which were found in 60%, 43%, and 36%, respectively. Fifteen percent of the cohort had a negatively significant impact on their quality of life. The absence of voiding symptoms was statistically linked to a better quality of life ( p < 0.05). Hemodialysis patients who are over 60 years old, smokers, or obese were found to be significantly more likely to report storage symptoms (18%, 9%, and 79%, respectively; p < 0.05). Bladder pain was significantly correlated to the dialysis duration of more than 24 months ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Storage and voiding lower urinary tract symptoms are common among hemodialysis male patients with a minor impact on their quality of life. Age, smoking, and obesity are major risks of exaggerating such symptoms.
Evaluation of the national AIDS program and HIV/AIDS surveillance system in Jordan
Authors: Al-Rahamneh Moad J , Khader Yousef , Aqel Ashraf Jamil , Abaza Hiba , Satyanarayana Srinath , Al-Shaikh Ala’a Fuad , Mukattash Heyam Hilal , Shoubaki Areej Hamed , Aldamen Tareq Haytham
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

The National AIDS Program in Jordan has faced numerous challenges, including insufficient funding, limited resources, and complexities brought on by refugee influxes. The absence of a reliable HIV/AIDS surveillance system further complicates tracking and responding to the epidemic. This study aimed to evaluate the performance and functionality of the National AIDS Program and the HIV/AIDS surveillance system.

Methods:

A qualitative study was conducted to evaluate the National AIDS Program and the HIV/AIDS Surveillance System in Jordan. The study involved 14 key informants specialized in HIV/AIDS Surveillance Systems. Interviews were guided by an interview guide based on the Updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines for Evaluating Public Health Surveillance Systems. Data analysis was performed through directed content analysis.

Results:

The Voluntary Counseling and Testing Center in Jordan confronts multiple challenges, including poor infrastructure, limited accessibility, and inadequate facilities. Additionally, there is a lack of effective coordination between the Voluntary Counseling and Testing center and the Chest Diseases and Migrant Health Directorate, particularly regarding testing for Tuberculosis. HIV screening in Jordan is hindered by various factors, including disease sensitivity. Voluntary Counseling and Testing lacks HIV/AIDS specialists AND staff adequate training and fails to adhere to updated treatment guidelines. Persistent deficiencies in human resources, equipment, and training continue to plague the HIV/AIDS Surveillance System. Key informants expressed dissatisfaction with the data’s usefulness, citing concerns over poor data quality. The data were seldom used for prioritizing resources, identifying at-risk individuals, assessing HIV/AIDS risk factors, or evaluating prevention and control measures.

Conclusion:

The National AIDS Program and HIV/AIDS Surveillance System activities in Jordan are unstructured, poorly coordinated, and inefficient. Many gaps related to National AIDS Program and HIV/AIDS Surveillance System performance and data were identified. Recommendations include developing an electronic surveillance system for data collection, notification, and reporting, and building the capacities of HIV/AIDS healthcare providers in screening, diagnosis, and management.
Characterizing Interventions Used to Promote Life Participation in Adults on Peritoneal Dialysis Therapy: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kateb Alexia , McCarthy Kaleigh , Farragher Janine
Published: July 2024

Background:

Living with kidney failure can interfere with life participation (ie, participation in valued life activities). Life participation has recently been identified as a top-priority health outcome of people on peritoneal dialysis therapy, but it is a relatively unexplored topic in peritoneal dialysis.

Objective:

The objective is to describe the interventions that have been used to promote life participation in the peritoneal dialysis population and highlight research gaps warranting further investigation.

Design:

A scoping review was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology.

Setting:

Six electronic databases (MEDLINE [OVID], EMBASE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL Plus, SCOPUS) were searched.

Patients:

Adults aged 18+ years on peritoneal dialysis therapy.

Measurements:

Any dedicated scale or subscale that measured life participation as an isolated outcome.

Methods:

Title/abstract screening was completed independently after adequate inter-rater reliability (kappa > 0.8) was achieved among reviewers. Full-text review and data extraction were conducted in duplicate. Extracted data were analyzed using counts, percentages, and narrative synthesis to describe patterns in the literature.

Results:

After identifying 13 874 results, 17 studies met eligibility criteria. Eight studies were conducted within the past 5 years, with China as the most common study location. Only 2 studies investigated life participation as a primary study outcome. Eight studies targeted personal-physical barriers to life participation, 8 targeted multiple barriers, and 1 targeted an environmental-institutional barrier. Life participation was assessed within a subdomain of a broader quality of life assessment (The Kidney Disease Quality of Life [KDQOL]-36 or the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey [SF-36]) in 11 studies. The majority of assessments captured life participation in all major domains of participation (self-care, work, and leisure).

Limitations:

Eligibility screening at title/abstract stage was not performed in duplicate; articles not available in English were excluded.

Conclusions:

Life participation has infrequently been prioritized as a health outcome in peritoneal dialysis (PD). Interventions have been narrow in focus given the range of challenges faced by people on PD and the holistic approaches used in other clinical populations. Future research should prioritize life participation as a key health outcome in PD and investigate the impact of interventions that address cognitive, affective, and environmental barriers to participation.
The Use of Kidneys With Lower Longevity From Deceased Donors to Improve Access to Preemptive Renal Transplantation for Elderly Patients: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sancho Carina , Affdal Aliya , Ballesteros Gallego Fabián-Andrés , Malo Marie-Françoise , Cochran-Mavrikakis Savannah-Lou , Cardinal Héloise , Gill John S. , Fortin Marie-Chantal
Published: July 2024

Background:

There is a gap between the number of patients waiting for a transplant and the number of kidneys available. Some deceased donor kidneys are currently nonutilized, as medical teams fear that they will experience suboptimal graft survival. However, these organs could provide an acceptable therapeutic option if they were allocated for preemptive kidney transplantation in elderly candidates.

Objective:

This project aims to gather patients’ perspectives on the allocation of kidneys with lower longevity for preemptive kidney transplantation in elderly patients.

Design:

Individual interviews.

Setting:

The Center hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM) chronic kidney disease (CKD) clinic.

Participants:

Patients aged between 64 and 75 years with CKD G4-5 ND, followed at the CHUM and who have not initiated dialysis yet.

Methods:

Between March and July 2023, we conducted 14 individual interviews with patients aged between 64 and 75 years who had CKD G4-5 ND and were followed at the CHUM. The interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was conducted.

Results:

Most participants were in favor of using kidneys with lower longevity to increase their access to transplantation, improve their quality of life, enable accelerated transplantation, and avoid dialysis. Patients also wanted to be engaged in the decision-making process, underlining the importance of informed consent. Although the use of kidneys with lower longevity offers the hope of returning to “normal” life, some patients were concerned about the risk of reduced graft survival and the need for a subsequent kidney transplant. In these cases, patients were interested in using mitigation strategies, such as prioritization for kidney transplantation from standard donors in case of early graft loss associated with receiving kidneys with lower longevity. They also recommended the development of a separate waiting list for patients consenting to preemptive transplantation with kidneys with lower longevity.

Limitations:

This study was conducted in only 1 nephrology clinic in the province of Quebec with French-speaking patients. Consequently, the results may not be generalizable to other populations, including ethnic minorities.

Conclusion:

The use of kidneys with lower longevity for preemptive kidney transplantation appears to be an interesting option for elderly kidney transplant candidates. However, patient information and participation in the decision-making process are essential. Moreover, organ donation organizations and transplant programs should develop a separate waitlist for transplant candidates who have preconsented to receive organ offers of deceased donor kidneys with lower longevity.

Trial registration:

Not registered.
Successful resolution of a continuous pneumothorax using canine xeno-blood patch pleurodesis in a cat
Authors: Thyen Anna K , Riggs Alexandra H , Her Jiwoong , Yaxley Page E
Published: July 2024

Case summary

An 11-year-old male neutered cat was referred to The Ohio State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital after being diagnosed with pleural effusion by a referral veterinarian. After thoracocentesis, analysis of the effusion was consistent with chyle. Echocardiography, radiographs and bloodwork were used to diagnose hypertrophic cardiomyopathy phenotype and left-sided congestive heart failure, suspected to be secondary to uncontrolled hyperthyroidism. While initiating medical therapy, repeated thoracocenteses were required. A severe pneumothorax developed, necessitating placement of bilateral thoracostomy tubes. A thoracic CT scan did not reveal a cause for the pneumothorax; therefore, it was suspected to have occurred secondarily to an iatrogenic laceration of the parenchyma during thoracocentesis. An autologous blood patch pleurodesis was considered contraindicated so instead the cat was administered a blood patch using blood from a canine blood donor. The cat’s respiratory status remained stable without additional intervention. At 30 h after blood patch pleurodesis, the thoracostomy tubes were removed and thoracic radiographs revealed near resolution of the pleural effusion and pneumothorax. The cat remained subclinical and was discharged from the hospital 48 h after the blood patch pleurodesis. Upon follow-up at 4 and 8 weeks after discharge, the cat was alive and had no complications or adverse reactions from the blood patch pleurodesis.

Relevance and novel information

This case documents the first report of a xeno-blood patch pleurodesis performed in a cat using blood from a canine donor. The cat had a successful discharge from the hospital with no adverse reactions from the xeno-blood patch pleurodesis.
Quantifying Networked Influence: How Much Do Disinformation Spreaders’ Networks Drive Their Public Engagement Outcomes?
Authors: Yang Aimei , Williams Dmitri
Published: July 2024

Although previous studies have recognized the widespread presence of disinformation networks, we know little about the extent to which such networks affect the ability of disinformation spreaders to disseminate falsehoods. In this study, we conceptualize disinformation networks as a form of coordinated strategic communication and apply an innovative algorithm to quantify the networked influence of disinformation spreaders. We found that coordinated networks account for up to 62% of disinformation spreaders’ ability to engage the broader public and 23% of their ability to have their message shared more frequently. These findings suggest that any effective disinformation prevention effort needs to incorporate plans aimed at disrupting networks, rather than solely focusing on notable individuals. In addition, our further analysis reveals that the countries of origin and the type of disinformation spreaders significantly affect their ability to gain networked influence among their peers. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
The Nexus Between Board Diversity and Sustainability Reporting: The Moderating Role of Supervisory Effectiveness and Quality in a Two-Tier Board System
Authors: Wijayanti Rita , Setiawan Doddy
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate how Board of Director (BOD) diversity affected sustainability reporting in Islamic banks in Indonesia. The effectiveness of three supervisory bodies, namely the Board of Commissioners (BOC), the Audit Committee (AC), and the Sharia Supervisory Board (SSB), was explored to determine their ability to enhance sustainability performance. The study was based on a sample of 13 Islamic banks listed with the Financial Services Authority between 2012 and 2021. Moderated Regression Analysis was applied to test the hypotheses. It was found that board diversity had a positive influence on sustainability reporting. The regression results for all three moderation variables showed positive and significant findings, indicating that the interactions between the BOC, the AC, the SSB, with the BOD played an effective role in enhancing sustainability disclosure. board ’diversity’s importance and supervisory boards’ effectiveness. This study fills a research gap on the relationship between corporate governance and sustainability disclosure, especially in developing countries that adhere to a dual board governance system, specifically Islamic banks that comply with Sharia governance. The research results underscore the need for a diverse board of directors and the effectiveness of the supervisory board as the party responsible for meeting stakeholder demands through its role in encouraging companies to be actively involved in sustainability performance.
Emotional Structure of Dialogues in Aging-Themed Movies: An Analysis on Text Mining
Authors: Ergün Duygu , Takan Savaş , Katipoğlu Gökmen
Published: July 2024

Emotions play an important role in the process of media messages transforming the audience. In our study, starting from the question of what might be the dominant emotions in old age-themed cinema texts, it is aimed to obtain clues about how old age is constructed in cinema through these emotions and what kind of emotional structure about old age is imposed on the audience. In this direction, emotion analysis was applied to the dialogues of 379 old age-themed films shot in a period of 100 years to determine what kind of emotional structure is constructed in all old age-themed cinema texts. As a result, it was found that the most dominant emotion was anger and disgust. The findings were categorized according to three different periods (1920–1969, 1970–1999, 2000–2020) and interpreted in a descriptive approach in a historical perspective and within the framework of the cinemas of the in addition to the EU, Germany, France, the UK, and Japan, Turkish cinema to make a comparison, where the most old age films were made. It is expected that our study will set an example for text mining research in cinema and offer an alternative perspective to the discussions on the phenomenon of aging in cinema.
Environmental Service Learning as University-Community Partnership: Using Actor-Network Theory to Examine a New Model of Engagement
Authors: Cooke Hannah , Campbell Todd , Anagnostopoulos Dorothea , Arnold Chester
Published: July 2024

Service learning has many documented benefits for students. The benefits to the communities are less clear. This study examines the unfolding of an environmental service-learning partnership from the perspective of one participating community liaison. We examine a new model of university-community engagement, where undergraduate students are paired with a local community to address environmental issues in courses that focus on adaptation and mitigation. We use actor-network theory (ANT) to explore the experiences of one community liaison, focusing specifically on factors that helped build and maintain the partnership and produced benefits for the community. Findings highlight the community liaison’s agency in negotiating partnership goals and determining the definition and treatment of environmental concerns. We conclude by identifying the insights an ANT perspective holds for service-learning and community-engagement research and practice.
Association of Lifestyle Type with Mental Health and Quality of Life in Community-Dwelling Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Lim Young-Myoung , Park Kang-Hyun , Kim Ah-Ram , Park Ji-Hyuk
Published: July 2024

Identify the values reflected in the healthy lifestyle of middle-aged and older Adults people and to confirm their association with mental health, quality of sleep, and quality of life. Data were collected from 200 middle-aged and older Adults and descriptive statistics and latent profile analyses were performed. One-way ANOVA and multinomial logit regression were performed on the differences between latent classes and predictors. Classes for latent-class profile were as follows: Class 1—Basic lifestyle and balanced pursuit; Class 2—Imbalanced lifestyle and selective pursuit; Class 3—Inactive lifestyle and indifferent; and Class 4—Active lifestyle and active pursuit. Difference in the according to latent classes, Class 2 showed the highest depression and quality of sleep problems and the lowest quality of life. It was confirmed that the higher the latent-class opinion and interest in activities and health, the higher the quality of life. Considering the diversity of this latent-class lifestyle, it will be possible to explore strategies for health promotion.
Determinants of Dementia-Preventive Behaviors: A Scoping Review Based on the PRECEDE Model
Authors: Ryu So Im , Lee Min Hye , Park Yeon-Hwan
Published: July 2024

As dementia is becoming a great challenge worldwide, modifying its risk factors is a primary preventive approach. However, there is a scarcity of integrated efforts to determine dementia-specific factors that influence preventive behaviors, particularly when considering a theoretical framework. Therefore, this scoping review aimed to map the evidence on factors affecting dementia-preventive behaviors based on the PRECEDE framework. Five electronic databases—PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL—were searched for articles published until May 2022, and only peer-reviewed studies were included to gather robust evidence. During the initial search, 37,331 articles were retrieved. Of these, 22 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the evidence synthesis. The scoping review identified 28 specific determinants within the six conceptual categories of the PRECEDE framework, thereby highlighting the multi-dimensional nature of factors influencing dementia-preventive behaviors. Future studies should consider multilevel and multi-dimensional personalized strategies to promote dementia-preventive behavior.
Consumers’ Perceptions of North Carolina Wines: A Case Study with a Place-Based Focus
Authors: Deale Cynthia S. , Lee Seung Hyun (Jenna)
Published: July 2024

This case study focuses on issues connected to consumers’ perceptions of and preferences for wine, especially in relation to a sense of place, tourism, and brand identity. The main issue and dilemma involve how to develop and promote a strong, viable brand for wines from a specific place that can enhance opportunities for wine tourism. In this case, the location is the state of North Carolina in the United States. The case provides meaningful information about branding wines and has implications for tourism marketing.
Association of Preoperative Shoulder Osteoarthritis Severity Score With Change in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score at 2 Years After Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Chi Hannah M. , Davies Michael R. , Vijittrakarnrung Chaiyanun , Motamedi Daria , Ma C. Benjamin , Feeley Brian T. , Lansdown Drew A.
Published: July 2024

Background:

The impact of early glenohumeral osteoarthritis (GHOA) on clinical outcomes after rotator cuff repair (RCR) remains unclear. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–based Shoulder Osteoarthritis Severity (SOAS) score is a comprehensive approach to quantifying glenohumeral degeneration.

Purpose:

To investigate the association between SOAS scores and changes in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores in patients who underwent RCR.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Two reviewers independently analyzed the preoperative MRI scans of 116 shoulders and assigned SOAS scores. Spearman correlation was used to calculate the association of mean SOAS scores with patient demographic characteristics and change in ASES scores over the 2-year follow-up period (ΔASES). Multivariate regression analysis was performed between the independent variables of patient age, sex, body mass index, and significant SOAS score components as determined by univariate analysis, with the dependent variable being ΔASES. Significance was defined as P < .05 for univariate analysis and P < .0125 after application of the Bonferroni correction for multivariate analysis.

Results:

The mean ASES scores were 55.8 ± 18.6 preoperatively and 92.1 ± 12.1 at 2 years postoperatively. The mean preoperative SOAS score was 15.2 ± 7.1. On univariate analysis, the total SOAS score was positively correlated with patient age ( rS = 0.41; P < .001), whereas ΔASES was negatively correlated with patient age ( rS = −0.27; P = .0032). Increasing SOAS subscores for supraspinatus/infraspinatus tear size ( rS = −0.28; P = .024), tendon retraction ( rS = −0.23; P = .015), muscle atrophy ( rS = −0.20; P = .034), paralabral ganglia ( rS = −0.23; P = .015), and cartilage degeneration ( rS = −0.21; P = .024) were negatively correlated with ΔASES. A negative correlation was found between increasing total SOAS score and ΔASES ( rS = −0.22; P = .016). On multivariate analysis, increasing supraspinatus/infraspinatus tear size was significantly and negatively correlated with ΔASES (β = −3.3; P = .010).

Conclusion:

Increasing the total SOAS score was predictive of less improvement in ASES scores at 2 years postoperatively. On univariate analysis, SOAS subscores with the strongest negative correlations with ΔASES scores included tear size, muscle atrophy, tendon retraction, paralabral ganglia, and cartilage wear. On multivariate analysis, only tear size was significantly associated with a lower change in the ASES score.