bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paediatric Upper Respiratory Infections: The Role of Antibiotics
Authors: Fiocchi A. , Calcinai E. , Beghi G. , Terracciano L.
Published: April 2023

To review current clinical evidence for the use of antibiotics in paediatric upper paediatric respiratory infections, repeated PubMed searches using the template algorithm [rhinosinusitis/otitis/ tonsillitis AND (…)] with the settings: [Humans; English; All Child 0–18; Clinical trial; Review; Methanalysis; Guideline; Last 10 years] for the following comparators: antibiotic; amoxicillin; clavulanate; penicillin; cephalosporin; macrolide; erythromycin; rokitamycin; clindamycin; trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, cefopodoxime, cefdinir, cefuroxime, ceftriaxone. The authors' clinical experience in the paediatric allergy unit of a University hospital was also drawn upon. A narrative review was drafted to update paediatricians on the topic. Many paediatric studies and guidelines were retrieved satisfying current evidence-based medicine standards. There are stringent indications for antibiotic use in URTIs. The paediatric use is widespread raising doubts on their appropriate prescription in many countries. Evidence for the efficacy of antibiotic treatment for paediatric URTIs is available and this treatment should be included in individualised patient protocols on the basis of the clinical literature. Caution must be posed at the local level taking in account epidemiologic and microbiologic data to avoid overprescription.
The Influence of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Suicidal Behaviors in South Korea: The Mediating Effects of Depressive Symptoms and Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Lee Haenim , Park Aely
Published: April 2023

This study examines the relationship between patterns of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and suicidal behaviors. It investigates the role of depressive symptoms as an underlying mechanism between patterns of ACEs and suicidal behaviors in South Korea. Data came from the 2012 Korean General Social Survey (KGSS), a nationally representative sample in South Korea ( N = 1,048). The dependent variables included two suicidal behaviors: suicidal thoughts and a suicide plan or attempt. The independent variable was the patterns of ACEs identified using ten binary indicators of childhood adversity. The mediating variable of depressive symptoms was measured using the Korean version of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Covariates were also included to control for socio-demographic characteristics: age, gender, education, and household income. This study conducted a latent class analysis (LCA) to classify different patterns of ACEs and then employed path analysis to examine mediating effects of depressive symptoms in the relationship between ACEs and suicidal behavior. Among the results, three latent classes of ACEs were identified— child maltreatment, child maltreatment and family dysfunction, and low ACEs. The child maltreatment and child maltreatment and family dysfunction classes were more likely to have suicidal thoughts and to plan or attempt suicide compared to the low ACEs class. Path analysis also showed significant indirect pathways from ACEs exposure to suicidal behaviors through depressive symptoms. This evidence corroborates previous research that shows family dysfunction and child maltreatment as detrimental factors leading to depressive symptoms and suicidal behaviors. Practitioners and policy-makers should therefore consider childhood life experiences when assessing suicidal behaviors in health prevention and intervention strategies.
Integrating Civic Engagement Into a Lifestyle Intervention for Rural Women – A Mixed Methods Process Evaluation
Authors: Sriram Urshila , Graham Meredith L , Folta Sara , Paul Lynn , Seguin-Fowler Rebecca A
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The present study aimed to evaluate the implementation of a civic engagement curriculum (HEART Club) designed to catalyze positive environmental change in rural communities.

Design

The HEART Club curriculum was integrated into a six-month community-based health behavior intervention to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.

Setting

Participants were recruited from eight rural towns in Montana and New York.

Subjects

101 midlife and older women.

Intervention

Participants worked to address an issue related to their local food or physical activity environment and establish progress monitoring benchmarks.

Method

Evaluation components included after-class surveys, program leader interviews ( n = 15), participant focus groups ( n = 8), and post-intervention surveys.

Results

Intervention sites reported high fidelity (78%) to the curriculum. Average attendance was 69% and program classes were rated as highly effective (4.1 out of 5). Despite positive participant feedback, low readiness for civic engagement and insufficient time were implementation challenges. The majority of HEART Club groups had accomplished two or more benchmarks post-intervention. Facilitators of progress included community support, effective leadership, and collective effort. Participants also indicated that trying to affect community change while simultaneously making personal health improvements likely stalled initial progress.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the potential and challenges associated with civic engagement within the context of rural lifestyle interventions. Future implementation efforts should focus on reframing civic engagement as an approach to support and maintain behavior change.
A review on insects flight aerodynamics, noise sources, and flow control mechanisms
Authors: Moslem Foad , Babaie Zahra , Masdari Mehran , Fedir Kirchu
Published: April 2023

Wildlife always acts as an inspiration source for humans to help them study and mimic flight methods. Insects are one of the most important sources of biological systems’ inspiration to control flow and reduce aerodynamic noise. Insects are classified into different kinds, and most can fly by fluttering their wings. In general, insects’ flight muscles are divided into direct and indirect types that act synchronously and asynchronously with nerve impulses, respectively. These muscles help insects use a mixture of rotating, flapping, and pitching movements to achieve specific wing kinematics. Insects use various mechanisms for generating aerodynamic forces, including the Weis-Fogh or clap and fling mechanism, delayed stall due to unsteady motion (Wagner effect), wing rotation (Kramer effect), wake capture or wing–wake interaction, added mass, and absence of stall. On the other hand, the insect noises are divided into aerodynamic and structural. Insects’ aerodynamic noise is created by fluctuating forces, flow–solid interaction, shed vortex, and turbulence inflow. Meanwhile, insects’ structural noise is made by frictional and tymbal mechanisms. Their flow control methods are classified into two categories: wing shape and sub-structures. Wing shape features such as planform, chord length and location, twist, sweep, wingtip, and aspect ratio influence the flow around the insects. The sub-structures such as leading edge, trailing edge, swallowtail, and surface textures affect the flow too. A thorough understanding of insects’ fly, aerodynamic noise, and their control flow techniques will significantly help engineers to produce competitive products with better aerodynamic performance and aeroacoustic signature.
Effects of Palmijihwang-hwan: A Herbal Formula on the Pharmacokinetics of Tamsulosin in Rats
Authors: Jin Seong Eun , Jeon Woo-Young , Hwang Youn-Hwan , Seo Chang-Seob , Shin Hyeun-Kyoo , Jeong Hye Gwang , Ha Hyekyung
Published: April 2023

Background

Tamsulosin is an α1-adrenoceptor antagonist used to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Palmijihwang-hwan (PMJHH) is a traditional herbal formula for treating prostatic disorders and is often used with tamsulosin for treating LUTS/BPH. The co-administration of herbal medicines and conventional drugs increases the potential for clinically considerable herb−drug interactions. Hence, it is important to evaluate the safety of such combinations of drugs. This study aimed to investigate the influence of PMJHH on the pharmacokinetics of tamsulosin in rats.

Materials and Methods

We developed and validated a simple and rapid method to determine the plasma levels of tamsulosin in rats using an ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) system. After oral administration of tamsulosin (2 mg/kg), either alone or in combination with PMJHH (930 mg/kg), to rats, blood samples were collected at various times and used for pharmacokinetic studies. The pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed using a non-compartmental model.

Results

Compared to tamsulosin alone, co-administration of PMJHH had no significant effects on any pharmacokinetic parameters of tamsulosin, including maximal plasma concentration (Cmax), time to Cmax (Tmax), terminal elimination half-life ( t1/2), AUC from time 0 to the last observation (AUC0−t), mean residence from time 0 to infinity (MRT0−∞), apparent oral clearance (Cl/F), and apparent volume of distribution during terminal elimination (Vz/F).

Conclusion

The pharmacokinetics of tamsulosin were not affected by the co-administration of PMJHH. Our findings, therefore, validate the safety of the combination of tamsulosin and PMJHH commonly used for treating LUTS/BPH.
The role of a First Nations Voice for delegated legislation
Authors: Neudorf Lorne
Published: April 2023

This article explores the role of a proposed Indigenous Voice in relation to Australia's largest source of new law: delegated legislation. It argues that in order for the Voice to have a meaningful role in the federal lawmaking process and fulfil its purpose, it must engage closely with the delegated lawmaking process. In particular, Parliament should provide the Voice with robust consultation and scrutiny functions for relevant delegated legislation, including the power to recommend its disallowance to both Houses of the Parliament.
Adolescents’ Emotion Regulation Strategies Questionnaire–Extended: Further Development and Associations With Mental Health Problems in Adolescence
Authors: Rådman Gustaf , Claréus Benjamin , Daukantaitė Daiva
Published: April 2023

Emotion regulation (ER) is implicated in a range of psychopathologies and behavioral problems that are prevalent or have their initial onset in adolescence. In this study, we aim to evaluate the psychometric properties (factor structure, internal consistency, and construct validity) of the Adolescents’ Emotion Regulation Strategies Questionnaire–Extended (AERSQ-E), a modified and extended version of an ER instrument developed by Zhou et al. Across six sub-studies using data from different Swedish adolescent community samples (1,104 students in total), we generated and validated a 23-item version containing six subscales: rumination/negative thinking, positive reorientation, creative expression, aggressive outlet, social support, and distraction. Assessing test–retest reliability, internal consistency, measurement invariance as well as convergent and discriminant validity, we could establish, with some limitations, the general reliability and validity of the AERSQ-E as a valid measure of ER strategies for use in adolescence.
Swimming Against the Current: Resistance to a Black Superintendent’s Fight to Lead With Equity in an Urban School District
Authors: Joseph Shawn
Published: April 2023

This case describes how, after being hired by a large urban school district in the southern United States, a Black male superintendent’s relationship with his stakeholders deteriorated due to disagreements about his equity-based leadership approach. Three incidents occurred during his tenure, which he believed to be racially motivated. Yet, the school board and the community downplayed race as the motivating factor. Ultimately, the community’s racial bias led to his departure after only 3 years. This case study explores the question, “How did race affect the ability of a Black superintendent to lead with equity in an urban school district?”
Antiproliferative Activities of Acetone Extract From Canarium Odontophyllum (Dabai) Stem Bark Against Human Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Ishak Siti Fairuz , Rajab Nor Fadilah , Basri Dayang Fredalina
Published: April 2023

Colorectal cancer is the most common malignant cancer in developing countries. Canarium odontophyllum, also known as “Dabai” or “Borneo Olive“ is among the natural plants that can potentially be used as an anticancer agent. This study aims to determine the antiproliferative activities and cytotoxicity effects of acetone extract from C. odontophyllum stem bark against human colorectal cancer cell lines HCT 116 and HT 29. Acetone extract of C. odontophyllum stem bark exerted a significant cytotoxic effect on HCT 116 and HT 29 cells determined by MTT assay at the concentration of 12.5 μg/mL to 200 μg/mL for 24, 48, and 72 hours treatment. It was found that acetone extract of C. odontophyllum stem bark inhibited proliferation of HCT 116 with an IC50 value of 184.93 ± .0  μg/mL, 61.24 ± .1  μg/mL, 79.98 ± .029 for 24, 48 and 72 hours respectively. The findings also showed that acetone extract of C. odontophyllum stem bark revealed a lower inhibitory effect against HT-29 with an IC50 value of more than 200 μg/mL for 24, 48 and 72 hours. However, acetone extract of C. odontophyllum stem bark at similar concentrations and time points did not show any cytotoxic effect to normal colorectal fibroblast cell CCD18-Co. In conclusion, the acetone extract of C. odontophyllum stem bark exhibited more sensitivity against HCT 116 than HT 29. Its antiproliferative ability towards HCT 116 and HT 29 cells provides insight that this extract may serve as an anticancer agent against colorectal cancer.
Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitoring in the Hospital: A Real-World Experience
Authors: Spierling Bagsic Samantha R. , Fortmann Addie L. , Belasco Rebekah , Bastian Alessandra , Lohnes Suzanne , Ritko Anna , Sandoval Haley , Chichmarenko Mariya , Soriano Emily C. , Talavera Laura , Philis-Tsimikas Athena
Published: April 2023

Background:

Glycemic control in the hospital setting is imperative for improving outcomes among patients with diabetes. Bedside point-of-care (POC) glucose monitoring has remained the gold standard for decades, while only providing momentary glimpses into a patient’s glycemic control. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has been shown to improve glycemic control in the ambulatory setting. However, a paucity of inpatient experience and data remains a barrier to US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and expanded/non-research use in the hospital setting.

Method:

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the FDA exercised its enforcement discretion to not object to the use of CGM systems for the treatment of patients in hospital settings to support COVID-19 health care–related efforts to reduce viral exposure of health care workers. Following this announcement, Scripps Health, a large not-for-profit health care system in San Diego, California, implemented CGM as the new “standard of care” (CGM as SOC) for glucose monitoring and management in the hospital.

Results:

The present report serves to (1) detail the implementation procedures for employing this new SOC; (2) describe the patients receiving CGM as SOC, their glycemic control, and hospital outcomes; and (3) share lessons learned over two years and nearly 900 hospital encounters involving CGM.

Conclusions:

Here, we conclude that CGM is feasible in the hospital setting by using a dedicated diabetes care team and the CGM technology with remote monitoring.
On the reliability of published findings using the regression discontinuity design in political science
Authors: Stommes Drew , Aronow P. M. , Sävje Fredrik
Published: April 2023

The regression discontinuity (RD) design offers identification of causal effects under weak assumptions, earning it a position as a standard method in modern political science research. But identification does not necessarily imply that causal effects can be estimated accurately with limited data. In this paper, we highlight that estimation under the RD design involves serious statistical challenges and investigate how these challenges manifest themselves in the empirical literature in political science. We collect all RD-based findings published in top political science journals in the period 2009–2018. The distribution of published results exhibits pathological features; estimates tend to bunch just above the conventional level of statistical significance. A reanalysis of all studies with available data suggests that researcher discretion is not a major driver of these features. However, researchers tend to use inappropriate methods for inference, rendering standard errors artificially small. A retrospective power analysis reveals that most of these studies were underpowered to detect all but large effects. The issues we uncover, combined with well-documented selection pressures in academic publishing, cause concern that many published findings using the RD design may be exaggerated.
Families and Friends of Homicide Victims’ Experiences With the Healthcare System: A Trauma-Informed Perspective
Authors: Mastrocinque Jeanna M. , Martino Regina S. , Foglia Wanda , Navratil Peter , Metzger Jed , Cerceo Elizabeth A.
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

Families and friends of homicide victims (FFHV) interact with healthcare systems almost immediately after the traumatic event. Their interactions with healthcare providers can either facilitate healing, have a neutral effect, or compound an already painful experience. When trauma victims are admitted to the hospital, resources are necessarily diverted on their behalf with less consistent attention paid to their families and friends. The interactions surrounding the immediate circumstance as well as experiences in the weeks to months after can have significant long-term impact. This study explores the needs and experiences of FFHV when interacting with the healthcare system to inform physicians’ and providers’ interactions and provision of services.

Methods:

This study of 3 focus groups sought to understand these experiences with the healthcare system to better inform physicians’ and providers’ interactions and provision of services.

Results:

Using the framework approach, the study ultimately built upon the existing trauma-informed care (TIC) framework to include several emergent themes. Participants discussed the need for death notification sensitivity, benefits of coordinated care, barriers to accessing care, the need for physician empathy and attention, the lack of trauma screening, and hastily prescribing medications.

Conclusion:

This TIC approach can inform future healthcare interactions with the FFHV as it grounds the patients’ experience in their historical reality and may improve future provider-patient relationship.
The Benefits of Introducing a Pregnancy Support Tool for Low-Income Women During Routine Obstetrics Care
Authors: Rivelli Anne , Fitzpatrick Veronica , Shields Maureen , Erwin Kim , Delfinado Leah , Cabiya Marie , Wennerberg Karen
Published: April 2023

The objective of the CONTINUE (conversations in routine OB care) pilot study was to gather preliminary data on the benefits of integrating a well-designed pregnancy support tool (“CONTINUE Tool”) in low-income prenatal care. A total of 184 tools were distributed by 21 OB providers during the study implementation period. Follow-up data were collected from 71 (38.5%) prenatal patients across three community-based midwestern OB clinics serving a diverse prenatal patient population. Early-gestation prenatal patients received the strategically designed CONTINUE Tool during routine prenatal care and later completed a semi-structured interview or electronic survey to report pre-determined individual benefit items experienced due to tool usage. Factor analysis used individual benefit items to identify factors representing common underlying benefits (“factor benefits”). Logistic regression analyses were performed to describe the relative odds of participants with low income (public insurance) experiencing individual and factor benefits of tool use compared to participants of higher income (private insurance). Chi square tests (or Fisher’s exact tests) were performed to generate P values reflecting statistically significant differences by income group. More low-income prenatal participants reported experiencing individual benefits as compared to higher-income participants. Among factor benefits, low-income participants were statistically more likely to report experiencing a time-related logistics benefit (OR = 4.00; 95% CI 1.02-15.73; P = .045). Low-income participants reported experiencing an overall logistics factor benefit (OR = 4.29; 95% CI 0.47-38.75), including a cost-related logistics benefit (OR = 3.08; CI 0.59-16.00), as well as an understanding benefit (OR = 1.90; 95% CI 0.72-5.04) and a self-efficacy benefit (OR = 1.30; 95% CI 0.44-3.87). While this study is limited by sample size due to being a pilot study, the findings suggest there may be tangible benefits to introducing the CONTINUE Tool among low-income prenatal patients. Given the staggering inequity in OB care and subsequent health outcomes, any preliminary findings on ways to help combat this are necessary and should lay the groundwork for subsequent randomized trials. Our preliminary findings show that supplementing routine OB care with the CONTINUE Tool can confer benefits to both providers and patients, but particularly for low-income prenatal patients who tend to have more structural barriers to adequate care in the first place.
Comparing Sustainable Procurement in Green Supply Chain Practices Across Indian Manufacturing and Service Sectors
Authors: Upadhyay Ashok Kumar , Sheetal  , Khan Mohd Imran
Published: April 2023

After COVID, Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), suppliers, and distributors are seeking to streamline their local, and global supply chains, the issue has gained attention in how they identify, analyze and manage their procurement and supply chain processes with stakeholders. The use of supply chain adoption with green technology has been found to be preferred in international trade, which is forcing the Indian manufacturing, and services sector to realign their CSR (Corporate social responsibility) goals. Interviews have been conducted with a mix of manufacturing and service firms in India to map their sustainable procurement in green supply chain practices. The use of MAXQDA software for conducting thematic analysis to support the inductive theory and trend-building practices to know “what, why, and how” from interview responses. Each sector, manufacturing, and service showed distinct trends that divorce their approach to green SCM, and supply chain strategy for sustainable procurement though they have spread awareness about sustainable procurement with stakeholders, emphasizing economic benefits. Additionally, they pursued jointly to address environmental issues and extend societal benefits as a CSR effort. Variances in approaches in manufacturing are market-linked, time-based, and demand-driven while services firms showed green technology pledges as CSR initiatives along with an environmental emphasis in downstream SCM activities.
Early Resumption of Peritoneal Dialysis Post Laparoscopic Appendectomy: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Golsorkhi Mohadese , Ganesan Lakshmi , Infante Sergio , Abdipour Amir
Published: April 2023

Abdominal pain and fever in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) raise suspicion of PD-associated peritonitis. However, other causes of peritonitis such as appendicitis should be considered. The laparoscopic approach is the standard of care in many of these situations. This technique allows PD catheter preservation and early resumption of PD. Here, we report a case where PD was resumed successfully 48 hours after laparoscopic appendectomy. A 45-year-old man with end-stage renal disease on chronic PD presented with acute abdominal pain. On examination, the patient was febrile and had lower abdomen tenderness without a rebound. The exit site of the PD catheter was clean. An initial diagnosis of PD-associated peritonitis was made, and an intraperitoneal antibiotic was given. Abdominal computed tomography revealed appendicitis. It was confirmed that the patient had severe nonperforated appendicitis following a laparoscopic appendectomy. The PD catheter was preserved, although the patient reported good residual kidney function; his electrolyte abnormalities with rising creatinine and potassium indicated the need to resume dialysis. Low-volume PD in a strict supine position was resumed 48 hours after surgery. The patient tolerated low-fill PD without any complications. He was discharged home on post-op day 4, and further follow-up revealed no complications. Resuming PD early in patients who go under laparoscopic surgery with low-volume PD is a reasonable option in select cases. Close follow-up from the dialysis team to detect and manage complications is necessary.
10-Year Follow-up of the Original Faroese Septuagenarian Cohort: Focus on Frailty and Association With All-cause Mortality
Authors: Eliasen Eina H. , Weihe Pál , Debes Fróði , Tróndarson Marjun , Petersen Maria Skaalum
Published: April 2023

Little is known about the health status of Faroese people reaching high age. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the health status of older adults in a small-scale society with emphasis on frailty and all-cause mortality. In this 10-year follow-up study, 347 Faroese citizens aged 80 to 84 from the Faroese Septuagenarian cohort participated. A detailed health examination was conducted, in addition to self-reported questionnaire. We constructed a 40-item Frailty Index (FI) to assess frailty. Survival and mortality risks were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazard model. Median FI score was 0.28 ranging from 0.09 to 0.7; 71 (21%) individuals were least frail, 244 (67%) moderately frail, and 41 (12%) were most frail. Frailty and sex were statistically significantly associated with mortality; being male was associated with hazard ratio (HR) of 4.05 [CI 1.73, 9.48], and being most frail with HR of 6.2 [CI 1.84, 21.3]. Classification of octogenarians as least/moderately frail may be an opportunity to initiate interventions to prevent or delay frailty in this population stratum.
A Rare Case of Deceleration Induced Longitudinal Tear in Superior Vena Cava–Right Atrium Junction Presenting as Cardiac Tamponade
Authors: Mohanty Satyapriya , Deb Pranjeet , Banerjee Anindya , Kumar Abhinav , Singh Shashikant , Kundu Srinath , Das Debasish
Published: April 2023

We report a case of deceleration-induced cardiac injury in a truck driver following traffic accident.Sonography revealed large pericardial effusion with tamponade. Surgical exploration showed large tear at SVC-RA junction which was repaired.Mechanism of such tear at that site is discussed.
Clinical impact of minimal residual disease in blood and bone marrow of children with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Karol Seth E. , Coustan-Smith Elaine , Pounds Stanley , Wang Lei , Inaba Hiroto , Ribeiro Raul C. , Pui Ching-Hon , Klco Jeffery M. , Rubnitz Jeffrey E.
Published: April 2023

The prognostic significance of bone marrow minimal residual disease (MRD) in pediatric patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is well characterized, but the impact of blood MRD is not known. We, therefore, used flow cytometric assessment of leukemia-specific immunophenotypes to measure levels of MRD in both the blood and bone marrow of patients treated in the AML08 (NCT00703820) clinical trial. Blood samples were obtained on days 8 and 22 of therapy, whereas bone marrow samples were obtained on day 22. Among patients who tested as having MRD-negative bone marrow on day 22, neither day-8 nor day-22 blood MRD was significantly associated with the outcome. However, day-8 blood MRD was highly predictive of the outcome among patients who tested as having MRD-positive bone marrow on day 22. Although the measurement of blood MRD on day 8 cannot be used to identify patients who have day-22 MRD–negative bone marrow who are likely to relapse, our findings suggest that day-8 blood MRD results can identify patients with MRD-positive bone marrow who have a dismal prognosis and may be candidates for the early use of experimental therapy.
Draft genome and transcriptome of Nepenthes mirabilis, a carnivorous plant in China
Authors: Gao Yuan , Liao Hao-Bin , Liu Ting-Hong , Wu Jia-Ming , Wang Zheng-Feng , Cao Hong-Lin
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Nepenthes belongs to the monotypic family Nepenthaceae, one of the largest carnivorous plant families. Nepenthes species show impressive adaptive radiation and suffer from being overexploited in nature. Nepenthes mirabilis is the most widely distributed species and the only Nepenthes species that is naturally distributed within China. Herein, we reported the genome and transcriptome assemblies of N. mirabilis. The assemblies will be useful resources for comparative genomics, to understand the adaptation and conservation of carnivorous species.

Data description

This work produced ~ 139.5 Gb N. mirabilis whole genome sequencing reads using leaf tissues, and ~ 21.7 Gb and ~ 27.9 Gb of raw RNA-seq reads for its leaves and flowers, respectively. Transcriptome assembly obtained 339,802 transcripts, in which 79,758 open reading frames (ORFs) were identified. Function analysis indicated that these ORFs were mainly associated with proteolysis and DNA integration. The assembled genome was 691,409,685 bp with 159,555 contigs/scaffolds and an N50 of 10,307 bp. The BUSCO assessment of the assembled genome and transcriptome indicated 91.1% and 93.7% completeness, respectively. A total of 42,961 genes were predicted in the genome identified, coding for 45,461 proteins. The predicted genes were annotated using multiple databases, facilitating future functional analyses of them. This is the first genome report on the Nepenthaceae family.
Identification of priority pathogens for aetiological diagnosis in adults with community-acquired pneumonia in China: a multicentre prospective study
Authors: Zhang Lulu , Xiao Yan , Zhang Guoliang , Li Hongru , Zhao Jianping , Chen Mingwei , Chen Fuhui , Liu Ling , Li Yalun , Peng Liping , Zhao Feng , Yang Donghong , Wen Zhongmei , Wu Lei , Wu Shuo , Sun Yajiao , Wang Ying , Chen Lan , Wang Xinming , Wang Lihui , Li Weimin , Qiu Haibo , Chen Yusheng , Gao Zhancheng , Ren Lili , Wang Jianwei
Published: April 2023

Background

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a major public health challenge worldwide. However, the aetiological and disease severity-related pathogens associated with CAP in adults in China are not well established based on the detection of both viral and bacterial agents.

Methods

A multicentre, prospective study was conducted involving 10 hospitals located in nine geographical regions in China from 2014 to 2019. Sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples were collected from each recruited CAP patient. Multiplex real-time PCR and bacteria culture methods were used to detect respiratory pathogens. The association between detected pathogens and CAP severity was evaluated.

Results

Among the 3,403 recruited eligible patients, 462 (13.58%) had severe CAP, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 1.94% (66/3,403). At least one pathogen was detected in 2,054 (60.36%) patients, with two or more pathogens were co-detected in 725 patients. The ten major pathogens detected were Mycoplasma pneumoniae (11.05%), Haemophilus influenzae (10.67%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (10.43%), influenza A virus (9.49%), human rhinovirus (9.02%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (7.43%), Staphylococcus aureus (4.50%), adenovirus (2.94%), respiratory syncytial viruses (2.35%), and Legionella pneumophila (1.03%), which accounted for 76.06–92.52% of all positive detection results across sampling sites. Klebsiella pneumoniae (p < 0.001) and influenza viruses (p = 0.005) were more frequently detected in older patients, whereas Mycoplasma pneumoniae was more frequently detected in younger patients (p < 0.001). Infections with Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, influenza viruses and respiratory syncytial viruses were risk factors for severe CAP.

Conclusions

The major respiratory pathogens causing CAP in adults in China were different from those in USA and European countries, which were consistent across different geographical regions over study years. Given the detection rate of pathogens and their association with severe CAP, we propose to include the ten major pathogens as priorities for clinical pathogen screening in China.
Evidence gaps on weight gain in people living with HIV: a scoping review to define a research agenda
Authors: Guaraldi Giovanni , Bonfanti Paolo , Di Biagio Antonio , Gori Andrea , Milić Jovana , Saltini Paola , Segala Francesco V. , Squillace Nicola , Taramasso Lucia , Cingolani Antonella
Published: April 2023

Background

Combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) dramatically improved survival in people living with HIV (PLWH) but is associated with weight gain (WG), raising concern for a possible obesity epidemic in PLWH. This scoping review aims to identify the gaps in the existing evidence on WG in PLWH and generate a future research agenda.

Methods

This review was conducted according to the methodology for scoping studies and reported according to the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Review checklist. Articles published in English in the last 10 years indexed in Pubmed, WHO Global Index Medicus, or Embase were searched using specific queries focused on WG in PLWH.

Results

Following the selection process, 175 included articles were reviewed to search for the available evidence on four specific topics: (I) definition of WG in PLWH, (II) pathogenesis of WG in PLWH, (III) impact of ART on WG, (IV) correlation of WG with clinical outcomes. A summary of the data enabled us to identify gaps and clearly define the following research agenda: (I) develop a data-driven definition of WG in PLWH and define noninvasive assessment methods for body weight and fat composition; (II) further investigate the interaction between HIV/cART and immunity, metabolism, and adipose tissue; (III) establish the specific role of individual drugs on WG; (IV) clarify the independent role of WG, cART, HIV, and metabolic factors on clinical events.

Conclusions

The proposed research agenda may help define future research and fill the knowledge gaps that have emerged from this review.
Segmentation of thyroid glands and nodules in ultrasound images using the improved U-Net architecture
Authors: Zheng Tianlei , Qin Hang , Cui Yingying , Wang Rong , Zhao Weiguo , Zhang Shijin , Geng Shi , Zhao Lei
Published: April 2023

Background

Identifying thyroid nodules’ boundaries is crucial for making an accurate clinical assessment. However, manual segmentation is time-consuming. This paper utilized U-Net and its improved methods to automatically segment thyroid nodules and glands.

Methods

The 5822 ultrasound images used in the experiment came from two centers, 4658 images were used as the training dataset, and 1164 images were used as the independent mixed test dataset finally. Based on U-Net, deformable-pyramid split-attention residual U-Net (DSRU-Net) by introducing ResNeSt block, atrous spatial pyramid pooling, and deformable convolution v3 was proposed. This method combined context information and extracts features of interest better, and had advantages in segmenting nodules and glands of different shapes and sizes.

Results

DSRU-Net obtained 85.8% mean Intersection over Union, 92.5% mean dice coefficient and 94.1% nodule dice coefficient, which were increased by 1.8%, 1.3% and 1.9% compared with U-Net.

Conclusions

Our method is more capable of identifying and segmenting glands and nodules than the original method, as shown by the results of correlational studies.
How do patients and families evaluate attitude of psychiatrists in Japan?: quantitative content analysis of open-ended items of patient responses from a large-scale questionnaire survey
Authors: Natsukari Ikuko , Higuchi Mari , Tsujimoto Tai
Published: April 2023

Background

Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) has been widely advocated in psychiatric fields. In Japan, however, PPI has not been implemented in clinical practice. In order to improve quality of psychiatric service in Japan, it is essential to understand psychiatrists’ attitudes from the patients’ perspective as a first step in practicing PPI. This study aimed to investigate the patients’ evaluation of psychiatrists’ attitudes by illustrating themes appeared in the questionnaire survey.

Methods

This study used the data obtained from the questionnaire survey responded by 2,683 patients with family members who belong to the family associations for psychiatric patients in Japan. Three open-ended question items in this survey, "criteria for selecting a psychiatrist (784 patient responses, response rate 29.2%),” “attitude of the psychiatrist in charge (929 patient responses, response rate 34.6%)," and "communication skills of the psychiatrist in charge (739 patient responses, response rate 27.5%)" were analyzed by co-occurrence network using KH Coder software.

Results

The common theme observed in all three items was whether psychiatrist took sufficient consultation time. The criteria for selecting a psychiatrist were summarized whether psychiatrist provided appropriate advices for patients’ problems, whether psychiatrist cared about patients’ demands and whether psychiatrist informed to patients about diseases and medications. The attitudes of the psychiatrists in charge that patients had most wanted their psychiatrists to improve were: psychiatrists only watch the computer, make diagnosis according to the patients’ individual condition, and try to build a relationship of trust with the patient. The patients’ demands regarding communication skills of the psychiatrist in charge included: whether the psychiatrist communicated in a way that improves the patient's psychological state, whether the psychiatrist was attentive to the patients’ family, and whether the psychiatrist could control his/her own mood during the consultation.

Conclusion

The results reflected the patients’ demands that do not appear in closed-ended items. It was suggested that patients’open-ended responses to questionnaires and their involvement in the psychiatric research (PPI) may provide more insight into improving pshchiaric care in Japan.
Pooled prevalence of depressive symptoms among medical students: an individual participant data meta-analysis
Authors:   Depression in Medical Students Research Group, Pacheco João Pedro Gonçalves , Bunevicius Adomas , Oku Afiong , Shindel Alan , Torres Albina Rodrigues , Bassols Ana Margareth Siqueira , de Abreu Ramos-Cerqueira Ana Teresa , Fernando Antonio , Katkute Arune , Mayda Atilla Senih , Nair Balakrishnan , Breyer Benjamin N. , Bakir Bilal , Kelly Brian , Angkurawaranon Chaisiri , Sreeramareddy Chandrashekhar , Samaranayake Chinthaka , Saravanan Coumaravelou , Del-Ben Cristina Marta , Hinic Darko , Goebert Deborah , Ristic-Ignjatovic Dragana , Al-faris Eiad , Chang Elaine , Venkatarao Epari , Mojs Ewa Helena , Youssef Farid Fayez , Huang Gan , Buneviciene Inesa , Gold Jessica Ashley , Smith Jim , Berner Juan Enrique , Warchol-Biedermann Katarzyna , Wilkins Kirsten Matthews , Walkiewicz Maciej , Lima Maria Cristina Pereira , Wolf Megan , Bore Miles , Yusoff Muhamad Saiful Bahri , Karaoglu Nazan , Mousa Omar , Bellodi Patricia Lacerda , Rohrbaugh Robert , Singh Ruchi , Gupta Sandhya , Baldassin Sergio , Mohd-Sidik Sherina , Peleg-Sagy Tal , Tin Tan Siew , Quince Thelma , Wahed Wafaa Yousif Abdel , Hu Xinran , Liu Zhening , Zatt Wilson Baldin , Lo Kenneth , Tam Wilson
Published: April 2023

Background

The methodological choice of aggregated estimates for meta-analysis may be notable for some common drawbacks, including variations in the cut-off values of depression, and lower statistical power for analyzing the associated factors. The study aimed to refine the precision of previous findings on the prevalence of depressive symptoms among medical students, through gathering individual participant data (IPD) as identified from our previous reviews.

Material and methods

In the present study, we searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, WanFang, Scielo and LILACS to identify published systematic reviews and meta-analyses up to March 2018, then individual data was requested for further analysis (PROSPERO registration: CRD42018091917). The participants’ age, sex, year of study, scores for depressive symptoms, and other predictor variables were requested. To pool the prevalence from the included studies, random-effects model (two-step method) was used. Multiple linear regression was used to examine the associated factors on the depression z-scores (one-step method).

Results

Of the 249 studies, the datasets of 34 studies were included. The crude prevalence was 19.4% (95% CI: 18.8%, 19.9%) by one-step method and the pooled prevalence was 18.1% (95% CI: 14.1%, 22.1%) by two-step method. Multiple linear regression revealed that being a female, older age, and senior year of study were significantly associated with the z-score.

Conclusion

The pooled prevalence of depressive symptoms from the Individual Participant Data (IPD) meta-analysis was lower than the previous meta-analyses using aggregated data. Age, sex, and year of study were significantly associated with the depression z-score. IPD meta-analysis may provide a more accurate estimation of disease burden, and allow verification of associated factors.
Assessment of vulnerability dimensions considering Family History and environmental interplay in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Brito Anita , Franco Felipe , Brentani Helena , Beltrão-Braga Patrícia Cristina Baleeiro
Published: April 2023

Background

Despite previous studies have recently shown Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) as having a strong genetics background, over a minimum environmental background, no study up to date has investigated the interplay between genetics and environment.

Methods

We have collected data regarding Family History (FH) and Environmental Factors (EF) from 2,141 individuals with ASD and their caretakers throughout Brazil, based on an online questionnaire. Most of the ASD individuals were males (81%) and the average age was 02 years minimum for males and females, and the maximum age was 41 years for males and 54 for females. People from all states in Brazil have answered the questionnaire. Genetic inheritance was obtained based on the declared FH of Psychiatric and Neurological diagnosis. As for EF, exposure to risk factors during pregnancy was considered, like infections, diabetes, drugs/chemicals exposure, socioeconomic, and psychological factors. Respondents were invited to answer the questionnaire in lectures given throughout Brazil, and by the social networks of the NGO “The Tooth Fairy Project”. A Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) was conducted to search vulnerability dimensions, and a Cluster Analysis was conducted to classify and identify the subgroups.

Results

Regarding EF, social and psychological exposures contributed to the first two dimensions. Concerning FH, the first dimension represented psychiatric FH, while the second represented neurological FH. When analyzed together, EF and FH contributed to two new dimensions: 1. psychiatric FH, and 2. a psychosocial component. Using Cluster Analysis, it was not possible to isolate subgroups by genetic vulnerability or environmental exposure. Instead, a gradient of psychiatric FH with similar contributions of EF was observed.

Conclusion

In this study, it was not possible to isolate groups of patients that correspond to only one component, but rather a continuum with different compositions of genetic and environmental interplay.
Heart rate monitoring to detect acute pain in non-verbal patients: a study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Kildal Emilie S. M. , Quintana Daniel S. , Szabo Attila , Tronstad Christian , Andreassen Ole , Nærland Terje , Hassel Bjørnar
Published: April 2023

Background

Autism entails reduced communicative abilities. Approximately 30% of individuals with autism have intellectual disability (ID). Some people with autism and ID are virtually non-communicative and unable to notify their caregivers when they are in pain. In a pilot study, we showed that heart rate (HR) monitoring may identify painful situations in this patient group, as HR increases in acutely painful situations.

Objectives

This study aims to generate knowledge to reduce the number of painful episodes in non-communicative patients’ everyday lives. We will 1) assess the effectiveness of HR as a tool for identifying potentially painful care procedures, 2) test the effect of HR-informed changes in potentially painful care procedures on biomarkers of pain, and 3) assess how six weeks of communication through HR affects the quality of communication between patient and caregiver.

Methods

We will recruit 38 non-communicative patients with autism and ID residing in care homes.Assessments: HR is measured continuously to identify acutely painful situations. HR variability and pain-related cytokines (MCP-1, IL-1RA, IL-8, TGFβ1, and IL-17) are collected as measures of long-term pain. Caregivers will be asked to what degree they observe pain in their patients and how well they believe they understand their patient’s expressions of emotion and pain.Pre-intervention:HR is measured 8 h/day over 2 weeks to identify potentially painful situations across four settings: physiotherapy, cast use, lifting, and personal hygiene.Intervention:Changes in procedures for identified painful situations are in the form of changes in 1) physiotherapy techniques, 2) preparations for putting on casts, 3) lifting techniques or 4) personal hygiene procedures.Design:Nineteen patients will start intervention in week 3 while 19 patients will continue data collection for another 2 weeks before procedure changes are introduced. This is done to distinguish between specific effects of changes in procedures and non-specific effects, such as caregivers increased attention.

Discussion

This study will advance the field of wearable physiological sensor use in patient care.

Trial registration

Registered prospectively at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05738278).