bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The affective consequences of response inhibition determine no-go-based crosstalk effects in dual tasks
Authors: Mahesan Devu , Fischer Rico
Published: January 2024

Backward crosstalk effects (BCEs) are observed in dual-task studies when characteristics of Task 2 influence Task 1 performance. When Task 2 is a go/no-go task, responses in Task 1 are slower when Task 2 is a no-go as compared with a go trial. This no-go BCE has been argued to be due to response inhibition spilling over from Task 2 to Task 1. Growing evidence shows that response inhibition elicits negative affect leading to affective devaluation of associated stimuli. We tested for a functional role of the negative affective consequence of response inhibition in the no-go BCE by investigating its interaction with affective processing in Task 1. In four experiments, Task 1 was a valence categorisation task, and Task 2 a go/no-go task. In all experiments, the no-go BCE strongly depended on affective processing in Task 1. While this modulation could be attributed to an affective (mis)match between stimulus features in both tasks in Experiments 1 and 2, Experiments 3 and 4 provided evidence for an affective (mis)match between stimulus valence in Task 1 and affective consequences of Task 2 response inhibition. The results are discussed in the context of current theories of no-go BCEs in dual tasks.
Efficacy and safety of NeuroEndoscopic Surgery for IntraCerebral Hemorrhage: A randomized, controlled, open-label, blinded endpoint trial (NESICH)
Authors: Wang Long , Zhou Tengyuan , Wang Pangbo , Zhang Shuixian , Yin Yi , Chen Lin , Duan Haijun , Wu Na , Feng Hua , Hu Rong
Published: January 2024

Background:

Neuroendoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure for clot evacuation in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) which may have advantages compared with open surgical evacuation procedures. The application of neuroendoscopy in ICH has attracted increasing attention in recent years. However, it remains unclear whether it could improve outcomes in patients with ICH.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to explore the efficacy and safety of neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation surgery compared with standard conservative treatment for spontaneous deep supratentorial cerebral hemorrhage.

Methods:

The Efficacy and safety of NeuroEndoscopic Surgery for IntraCerebral Hemorrhage (NESICH) Trial is a multicenter, randomized, controlled, open-label, blinded-endpoint clinical trial. Up to 560 eligible subjects with acute deep supratentorial ICH will be randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation or standard conservative treatment at more than 30 qualified neurosurgery centers in China.

Outcomes:

The primary endpoint is the proportion of patients with a good functional outcome (mRS score 0–3) in both groups at 180 days after onset. The main safety endpoints include all-cause mortality at 7, 30, and 180 days, rebleeding at 3, 7, and 30 days, and serious complications within 180 days.

Discussion:

NESICH will provide high-quality evidence for the efficacy and safety of neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation surgery in ICH patients.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05539859.
Does it matter who performs blood culture collection? Results of a survey assessing phlebotomist, nurse, and resident knowledge of blood culture collection protocols
Authors: Bucala Matthew , Hopfner Debi , Sharma Mamta , Nomides Nicole , Madigan Jennifer , Brodsky Casey , Power Laura
Published: January 2024

Blood cultures are the primary method for diagnosing bloodstream infections. However, blood culture contamination (BCC) can lead to unnecessary antibiotic treatment, additional tests, and extended patient time in the hospital. The aim of this quality improvement project was to evaluate healthcare workers’ knowledge of blood culture collection protocols and evaluate the blood culture contamination rates of laboratory and non-laboratory staff. We performed a retrospective review of contaminated cultures between May 2021 and April 2022, and anonymous surveys were distributed to assess staff knowledge of proper blood culture collection protocols. Laboratory staff (phlebotomy) had an overall BCC rate of 4.6% compared to a non-laboratory staff (nurses, residents, and medical students) rate of 9.7% ( p < 0.0001). On the survey, phlebotomists had the best score (89% correct), followed by nurses (76%) and residents and medical students (64%). These data suggest that blood culture protocol knowledge and BCC rates may be related, with phlebotomists scoring highest on the knowledge survey and demonstrating the lowest contamination rates.
La equidad en la campaña de vacunación COVID de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (Argentina): un análisis del Municipio de Quilmes
Authors: Spadea Agostina , Oleiro Hidalgo Maria , Quevedo Sofía , Begue Carolina , L’Arco Gabriela , Pérez Adriana , Cueto Gerardo , Konfino Jonatan
Published: January 2024

Introducción:

la pandemia de la COVID-19 ha acentuado las desigualdades sociales, económicas y relacionadas con la salud, afectando desproporcionadamente a las personas en situación de vulnerabilidad y perpetuando la inequidad en salud. En Argentina se implementó una campaña nacional gratuita de vacunación contra la COVID-19 con una perspectiva de equidad.

Objetivo:

identificar desigualdades territoriales en el acceso a la vacunación contra la COVID-19 en Quilmes.

Métodos:

se analizó la información referida a la vacunación contra la COVID-19 de personas residentes en el Municipio. Se efectuó la georreferenciación de cada vacunatorio y de cada persona a partir del domicilio declarado en el momento de la vacunación. Para caracterizar el grado de vulnerabilidad de las personas vacunadas, a cada una se le asignó el índice de carencias múltiples (ICM) correspondiente al radio censal de residencia

Resultados:

al menos el 82 % de la población completó el esquema primario de vacunación (dosis 1 y dosis 2), porcentaje que alcanzó el 97 % en los mayores de 65 años. Analizando la media de dosis aplicadas se observa algo similar con un gradiente hacia los quintiles más altos pero con una mínima diferencia entre sí, situación que también se corrobora en todos los grupos etarios.

Discusión:

no se observaron brechas significativas entre los diferentes niveles socioeconómicos. Si bien se observó un mínimo gradiente en el promedio de dosis recibidas, el tiempo de acceso a las diferentes vacunas y el porcentaje de esquemas primarios completos recibidos, las mismas tienen escasa relevancia clínica y sanitaria.
Comparison of osimertinib plus bevacizumab against osimertinib alone in NSCLC harboring EGFR mutations: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Guojin , Guo Liuxian , Xu Jing , Tang Kejing , Chen Jie
Published: January 2024

Background:

Frequent failures observed in some trials comparing the efficacy and safety of osimertinib plus bevacizumab to osimertinib monotherapy in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) alterations have brought questions.

Objectives:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of these two treatment regimens in advanced NSCLC patients harboring EGFR mutations.

Design:

This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources and methods:

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP databases were extensively searched for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on 14 May 2023. Two researchers independently screened the literature, assessed quality, and extracted data. The primary outcomes were progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and objective response rate (ORR). The secondary outcomes were adverse events (AEs) and PFS stratified by patients’ characteristics. STATA 17.0 software (StataCorp LLC, USA) was adopted for meta-analysis.

Results:

A total of four RCTs involving 390 patients were included. Overall, the risk of bias across the studies was moderate to low. Pooled results showed that compared to osimertinib alone, the addition of bevacizumab to osimertinib failed to show prolongation of PFS [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.00, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.78–1.27], OS (HR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.73–1.41), or improvement of the ORR (risk ratio = 1.12, 95% CI: 0.90–1.38), while an increased incidence of some AEs was observed, such as nausea, oral mucositis, hypertension, and proteinuria. Notably, combination treatment did significantly prolong the PFS in the subset of smokers (HR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.44–0.94). A mild trend toward PFS benefit under the combined regimen was also noted in patients with brain metastases and first-line treatment, though not reaching statistical significance.

Conclusion:

Based on the available evidence, the addition of bevacizumab to osimertinib could not provide additional survival benefits with higher but manageable toxicity for EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients. Osimertinib monotherapy remains the prioritized treatment. Further investigation is warranted.
An Exploratory Analysis of Preclinical and Clinical Factors Associated With Sleep Disturbance Assessed via the Neuro-QoL After Hemorrhagic Stroke
Authors: Ecker Sarah , Lord Aaron , Gurin Lindsey , Olivera Anlys , Ishida Koto , Melmed Kara R. , Torres Jose , Zhang Cen , Frontera Jennifer , Lewis Ariane
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose

Sleep disturbance after hemorrhagic stroke (intracerebral or subarachnoid hemorrhage) can impact rehabilitation, recovery, and quality of life. We sought to explore preclinical and clinical factors associated with sleep disturbance after hemorrhagic stroke assessed via the Quality of Life in Neurological Disorders (Neuro-QoL) short form sleep disturbance inventory.

Methods

We telephonically completed the Neuro-QoL short form sleep disturbance inventory 3-months and 12-months after hemorrhagic stroke for patients >18-years-old hospitalized between January 2015 and February 2021. We examined the relationship between sleep disturbance (T-score >50) and social and neuropsychiatric history, systemic and neurological illness severity, medical complications, and temporality.

Results

The inventory was completed for 70 patients at 3-months and 39 patients at 12-months; 18 (26%) had sleep disturbance at 3-months and 11 (28%) had sleep disturbance at 12-months. There was moderate agreement (κ = .414) between sleep disturbance at 3-months and 12-months. Sleep disturbance at 3-months was related to unemployment/retirement prior to admission ( P = .043), lower Glasgow Coma Scale score on admission ( P = .021), higher NIHSS score on admission ( P = .041) and infection while hospitalized ( P = .036). On multivariate analysis, sleep disturbance at 3-months was related to unemployment/retirement prior to admission (OR 3.58 (95% CI 1.03-12.37), P = .044). Sleep disturbance at 12-months was related to premorbid mRS score ( P = .046).

Conclusion

This exploratory analysis did not demonstrate a sustained relationship between any preclinical or clinical factors and sleep disturbance after hemorrhagic stroke. Larger studies that include comparison to patients with ischemic stroke and healthy individuals and utilize additional techniques to evaluate sleep disturbance are needed.
The Naha Confucius Temple lawsuit and religion-making in Japan’s courts of law
Authors: Larsson Ernils
Published: January 2024

This paper critically examines the process of “religion-making” as it occurs in Japanese courts of law, through an analysis of the recent Naha Confucius Temple case. The case concerned a small Confucius temple built on public land in Naha, the prefectural capital of Okinawa. The mayor of Naha had decided to waver lease for the land, since he considered the temple to be an “educational institution” focused primarily on disseminating knowledge about Okinawan history and local cultural heritage. Although the organization behind the temple was legally registered as a general incorporated foundation, the plaintiff argued that their activities and objectives were clearly religious in nature. In rulings handed down between 2018 and 2021, all three instances of the judiciary ruled in favor of the plaintiff, deciding that despite the organization’s legal status and stated objectives, their connection to Confucianism meant that they should be considered a “religious organization” under law.
Risk of isolated metastatic disease outside the abdomen is low in cT1a renal cancer: A retrospective analysis of a large cohort from the Scottish Renal Cancer Consortium
Authors: Mains Edward AA , Nalagatla Sarika , McLellan Elizabeth , McKay Alastair , Trail Matthew , Good Daniel W , Ayers Jennifer B , Rodger Flora , Blackmur James P , Hendry Jane , Qureshi Khaver , Leung Steve , Phipps Simon , McNeill S Alan , Martindale Andrew , Janjua Khalid , Donaldson James F , Thomas Ben G , Chapman Alex , Athanasiadis Grigorios , Aslam Muhammad Zeeshan , Lamb Gavin , Oades Grenville , Laird Alexander
Published: January 2024

Objectives:

Chest computed tomography (CT) is recommended by the European Association of Urology guidelines as part of the evaluation of patients presenting with renal tumours. There are no direct recommendations for the use of computed tomography (CT) pelvis, but this is often included routinely in the assessment for metastatic disease. The incidence of metastatic disease in cT1a renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is low. Predictive algorithms may be able to guide the selective use of chest CT in the pre-operative evaluation of patients. We sought primarily to assess the clinical utility of these algorithms in predicting lung and pelvic metastases in a national cohort of purely cT1a tumours.

Patients and Methods:

Patients with sporadic, unilateral cT1a renal tumours diagnosed between January 2012 and December 2017 were identified from a prospectively collected national database. Patient clinico-pathological parameters and treatment type were recorded. Details on clinical presentation and bloods at diagnosis were taken from local electronic records retrospectively. Differences between those with and without metastatic disease were assessed.

Results:

Of the total 696 patients, 7 (1.0%) patients had metastatic disease exclusively outside the abdomen. Indeterminate lung lesions were present in 114 (16.6%) patients, with 2 (1.8%) progressing to presumed metastatic disease. Patients with metastatic disease were more likely to be anaemic than those without metastatic disease (85.7% and 25.7%, respectively, p = 0.020).

Conclusion:

Metastatic disease at presentation with cT1a renal cancer was uncommon in our national multi-centre series, with limited impact on clinical management. Patients with cT1a without intra-abdominal metastatic disease could safely avoid CT chest or pelvic CT at diagnosis, with benefits in terms of radiation exposure and resource utilisation.

Level of evidence:

3.
Social Media Behaviors and Lifestyle Changes in Young Adults (Ages 18-28 years) During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Analysis From an International Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wiciak Michelle Teresa , Shazley Omar , Santhosh Daphne
Published: January 2024

Background:

Screen time (ST), mainly social media (SM), has increased during the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, impacting mental and physical health. This study aims to analyze SM use in young adults ages 18 to 28 years and lifestyle changes during COVID-19 to provide a baseline on pandemic habits in the younger population.

Methods:

An international cross-sectional observational study was conducted from September 2020 to January 2021. Participants responded about their SM behavior, and activities they noticed they did less and more during COVID-19. A total of 183 responses were analyzed.

Results:

The top reason respondents increased SM was for entertainment. Many respondents increased ST, physical activity (PA), and sleeping habits during COVID-19, while many decreased socialization, PA, and going outdoors. PA had mixed results among participants, indicating some increased PA and some decreased. Evidence suggests that timing of quarantining during the pandemic significantly influenced variables, like ST ( P = .004) and socialization ( P = .037).

Discussion and Conclusion:

Respondents generally noticed increased SM use for various reasons, including socialization, potentially explaining why respondents feel they socialize less. ST use increased; some people reported increased PA while others reported a decrease. Altogether, this provides vital context on young adults’ SM and lifestyle habits, highlighting potential areas for further research.
Faculty Attitudes Toward Students With Disabilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Fahad Alrusaiyes Reem
Published: January 2024

The social model of disability assumes that the university environment sometimes creates disability related obstacles and barriers. This study investigated faculty members’ attitudes toward students with disabilities and the latter’s capability to succeed in Saudi Arabian universities. The study surveyed 719 faculty members and conducted interviews with 8 faculty members from five Saudi universities. Data were analyzed using descriptive and thematic analyses. Differences in participants’ responses based on gender, previous experience teaching students with disabilities, academic college affiliation, academic rank, and years of experience were examined along with the types of professional development desired by faculty. Faculty members had positive attitudes toward students with disabilities and their abilities to succeed, but with statistically significant differences in terms of gender, academic rank, and college, with women, College of Education, and lower-ranking respondents being the most positive. Faculty members also wanted professional development opportunities to enhance these student’s educational experience.
Barriers to Promoting Critical Thinking Skills: An Empirical Study of Female Pre-Service English Teachers’ Perceptions in Jouf University in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alruwaili Areej Radhi
Published: January 2024

Critical thinking (CT) is an essential life skill that needs to be instilled in young minds during their education years. This study explored pre-service English teachers’ perceptions of the barriers to promoting CT skills in Saudi classrooms and investigated potential solutions to these perceived barriers. The study used a qualitative research design. Data were collected by conducting semi-structured interviews with 25 female pre-service English teachers. The issues that emerged as barriers to the promotion and development of CT skills in classrooms related to the personality of students, teaching methods, and the culture of criticism. The study proposes measures to enhance the development of CT skills in the classroom, including modifications to the teaching methods courses that are offered in pre-service English programs and the changing of perceptions toward CT skills.
Information Network Among Farmers: A Case Study in Ghana
Authors: Yu Qian , Gambrah Patience Pokuaa
Published: January 2024

It is well established that a person’s productivity is strongly related to interactions among their network cycles. Despite this, much of the literature concerning farmers’ productivity describes only their formal relationships with extension officials, ignoring their personal relationships. This study was motivated by the need to understand how farmers can use their social networks to promote information diffusion and learning among themselves. The study assessed whether farmers’ information networks can positively influence their productivity and performance through the study of their network structure. We used survey data from 200 Ghanaian farmers. The data was then analyzed using descriptive statistics and an exponential random graph model (ERGM). The results of this study showed that farmers’ information networks had a positive effect on their performance and productivity. The study also revealed that farmers seek information from key and influential farmers while key farmers also seek information from other key farmers. A further finding of the study showed that many factors contributed to the successful diffusion of information, such as popularity, activity spread, reciprocity, multiple connections, and homophily of experience. However, on the other hand, transitivity was not significant in this network. Hence, this study clarifies the effect of the structural characteristics of farmers’ information network which influence information diffusion for higher performance and productivity. This study argues that agricultural managers should take measures to ensure that farmers understand how their information network can benefit their peers, as well as their own performance and productivity.
From Theory to Practice: Development and Evaluation of a Quality Improvement Curriculum for Psychiatry Residents
Authors: Nidumolu Aditya , Freedman David , Bosma Mark
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVES

Quality improvement (QI) is a systematic approach used to analyze and address problems in healthcare. Evidence of its success has led some national regulatory bodies to require QI education in residency training programs. However, limited work to date has demonstrated how residency programs can integrate best practices in QI education to design their own curriculum. This study describes the implementation and evaluation of a new QI curriculum, grounded in a theoretical model of how QI education works, for Canadian psychiatry residents.

METHODS

PGY-2 and PGY-4 psychiatry residents received a 2.5-h mixed didactic and simulation-based QI workshop as a part of the 2021-2022 academic curriculum. Their knowledge and attitudes toward QI were assessed using the QI Knowledge Application Tool Revised (QIKAT-R) and the Beliefs and Attitudes subscale of the Beliefs, Attitudes, Skills, and Confidence in QI (BASiC-QI).

RESULTS

Eleven of 12 residents (92%) who completed the curriculum participated in the study. Average QIKAT-R scores improved from 4.45 to 7.00. Average BASiC-QI Beliefs and Attitudes subscale scores increased by 5.55 points. Residents reported enjoying QI and an increased desire to participate in future QI projects.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates how a programme theory of QI education can be used to develop an effective, locally-tailored curriculum. This approach can be replicated by other educators to develop or improve QI curricula.
Weathering violence: Atmospheric materialities and olfactory durations of ‘skunk water’ in Palestine
Authors: Joronen Mikko , Ghantous Wassim
Published: January 2024

This paper examines a particular technique of weaponising smell – the spraying of ‘skunk water’, a crowd control tool originally developed by the Israeli Police to disperse Palestinian protests – and the olfactory atmospheres of moving matter it extends its violence through. It focuses particularly on ways in which skunk water spraying operates by ‘weathering’ the air with a stench that sticks on bodies, objects and spaces, often for considerably long periods. By elaborating the two entwined aspects of weathering – the weaponising and the meteorological – the paper shows how skunk water spraying engenders malodourous olfactory durations that move and through their movement extend their violence through meteorological fluidities and moving bodies/objects. The violence of skunk water, we so argue, contains lingering tempos that through material morphoses (water, mist, droplets, dried powder), reactivating/intensifying weather conditions (rain, heat, humidity, wind), and material kinetics (moving bodies, objects and air) spatialise proximities of atmospheric stench, hence targeting the way breathing bodies are immersed in their olfactory environments. By comprehending weathering as weaponised ‘matter in motion’, the paper offers a novel way of thinking about atmospheric violence through non-linear movements and lingering proximities – namely, as a weaponisation of an olfactory duration of a stinky matter that moves.
How to Safely Reassess Variability and Adapt Sample Size? A Primer for the Independent Samples t Test
Authors: Vankelecom Lara , Loeys Tom , Moerkerke Beatrijs
Published: January 2024

When researchers aim to test hypotheses, setting up adequately powered studies is crucial to avoid missing important effects and to increase the probability that published significant effects reflect true effects. Without a priori good knowledge about the population effect size and variability, power analyses may underestimate the true required sample size. However, a specific type of a two-stage adaptive design in which the sample size can be reestimated during the data collection might partially mitigate the problem. In the design proposed in this article, the variability of the data collected at the first stage is estimated and then used to reassess the originally planned sample size of the study while the unstandardized effect size is fixed at a smallest effect size of interest. In this article, we explain how to implement such a two-stage sample-size reestimation design in the setting in which interest lies in comparing means of two independent groups. We investigate through simulation the implications on the Type I error rate (T1ER) of the final independent samples t test. Inflation can be substantial when the interim variance estimate is based on a small sample. However, the T1ER approaches the nominal level when more first-stage data are collected. An R-function is provided that enables researchers to calculate for their specific study (a) the maximum T1ER inflation and (b) the adjusted [Formula: see text] level to be used in the final t test to correct for the inflation. Finally, the desired property of this design to better ensure the power of the study is verified.
Transition to intelligent fleet management systems in open pit mines: A critical review on application of reinforcement-learning-based systems
Authors: Hazrathosseini Arman , Moradi Afrapoli Ali
Published: January 2024

The mathematical methods developed so far for addressing truck dispatching problems in fleet management systems (FMSs) of open-pit mines fail to capture the autonomy and dynamicity demanded by Mining 4.0, having led to the popularity of reinforcement learning (RL) methods capable of capturing real-time operational changes. Nonetheless, this nascent field feels the absence of a comprehensive study to elicit the shortfalls of previous studies in favour of more mature future works. To fill the gap, the present study attempts to critically review previously published articles in RL-based mine FMSs through both developing a five-feature-class scale embedded with 29 widely used dispatching features and an insightful review of basics and trends in RL. Results show that 60% of those features were neglected in previous works and that the underlying algorithms have many potentials for improvement. This study also laid out future research directions, pertinent challenges and possible solutions.
Exploring the potential of market-available connected vehicle data in border crossing time estimation
Authors: Jalilifar Ehsan , Li Xiao , Martin Michael , Huang Xiao
Published: January 2024

This study evaluates the potential of market-available crowdsourced driving data—connected vehicle (CV) data in estimating crossing times for passenger vehicles at ports of entry (POEs). Two months of CV data collected from a POE at the US-Mexico border in El Paso, Texas were processed using cloud computation tools to generate hourly aggregated border crossing times (CV-Time). In addition, this study also generated different variables to characterize the speed profile of CVs at different locations along a POE. Different regression models were developed to estimate border crossing times based on CV-generated variables and compared with ground truth observations from existing monitoring systems. The results show that the CV-Time is strongly correlated with the ground truth observations with a correlation rate of 0.82. The best-fitted Gradient Boost Regression model achieved an RMSE of 15.50 and MAPE of 25%. Our findings suggest that market-available CV data is promising for monitoring border crossing times, especially for supplementing physical monitoring systems when they are down for maintenance.
The Perceived Impact of Substance Use Education on Social Work Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Skills
Authors: Putney Jennifer , Halmo Rebekah , Collin Cali-Ryan , Abrego-Baltay Brittany , O’Brien Molly , Thomas Kristie A.
Published: January 2024

Background:

In 2021, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) published a report revealing that over 46 million individuals in the United States had a substance use disorder (SUD). In the same year, a record number of drug-related overdose deaths were reported. Social workers play an important role in connecting with people who use substances and providing adequate care and treatment; yet, negative attitudes and lack of holistic knowledge about individuals who use substances create challenges in providing effective care. Social work curricula that integrates substance use content has been identified as one way to address this.

Methods:

A 14-week course was introduced in one institution’s Master of Social Work curriculum with the goal of providing students with a comprehensive education on SUDs. Foundational knowledge and practical skill development were covered. Seventeen trained instructors taught a total of 1204 students between May 2020 and January 2022. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected to explore changes in student’s self-perceived knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to substance use.

Results:

Among those who completed the survey (N = 553), the majority felt that the course would have a positive impact on their future work and professional development. Specifically, 96.4% reported being satisfied or very satisfied with the course overall. Among those who completed a 30-day follow-up survey (n = 69), data revealed an increase in students’ self-perceived knowledge, accompanied by a shift in attitudes and positive changes in self-perceived client-centered care skills.

Conclusions:

Findings from this article support the development, implementation, and evaluation of evidence-based substance use content within social work curricula. This has implications for improving knowledge, attitudes, and skills among social workers who work with people who use substances.
Eradication treatment forPseudomonas aeruginosainfection in adults with bronchiectasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Conceição Mariana , Shteinberg Michal , Goeminne Pieter , Altenburg Josje , Chalmers James D.
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Pseudomonas aeruginosais the most commonly isolated pathogen in bronchiectasis and is associated with worse outcomes. Eradication treatment is recommended by guidelines, but the evidence base is limited. The expected success rate of eradication in clinical practice is not known.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis according to Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews andClinicaltrials.govwere searched for studies investigatingP. aeruginosaeradication treatment using antibiotics (systemic or inhaled) in patients with bronchiectasis. The primary outcome was the percentage of patients negative forP. aeruginosaat 12 months after eradication treatment. Cystic fibrosis was excluded.

Results:

Six observational studies including 289 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Our meta-analysis found a 12-monthP. aeruginosaeradication rate of 40% (95% CI 34–45%; p<0.00001), with no significant heterogeneity (I2=0%). Combined systemic and inhaled antibiotic treatment was associated with a higher eradication rate (48%, 95% CI 41–55%) than systemic antibiotics alone (27%, 13–45%).

Conclusion:

Eradication treatment in bronchiectasis results in eradication ofP. aeruginosafrom sputum in ∼40% of cases at 12 months. Combined systemic and inhaled antibiotics achieve higher eradication rates than systemic antibiotics alone.
Circ_0114428 knockdown inhibits ROCK2 expression to assuage lipopolysaccharide-induced human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cell injury through miR-574-5p
Authors: Zhao Jing , Zhao Qin , Duan Qiuxia
Published: January 2024

Background

Sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI) accounts for about 40% of ALI, accompanied by alveolar epithelial injury. The study aimed to reveal the role of circular RNA_0114428 (circ_0114428) in sepsis-induced ALI.

Methods

Human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells (HPAEpiCs) were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to mimic a sepsis-induced ALI cell model. RNA expression of circ_0114428, miR-574-5p and Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 2 (ROCK2) was detected by qRT-PCR. Protein expression was checked by Western blotting. Cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis were investigated by cell counting kit-8, 5-Ethynyl-29-deoxyuridine (EdU) and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. The levels of pro-inflammatory factors were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Oxidative stress was analyzed by lipid peroxidation Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) activity detection assays. The interplay among circ_0114428, miR-574-5p and ROCK2 was identified by dual-luciferase reporter, RNA pull-down and RNA immunoprecipitation assays.

Results

Circ_0114428 and ROCK2 expression were significantly increased, but miR-574-5p was decreased in blood samples from sepsis patients and LPS-stimulated HPAEpiCs. LPS treatment led to decreased cell viability and proliferation and increased cell apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress; however, these effects were relieved after circ_0114428 knockdown. Besides, circ_0114428 acted as a miR-574-5p sponge and regulated LPS-treated HPAEpiC disorders through miR-574-5p. Meanwhile, ROCK2 was identified as a miR-574-5p target, and its silencing protected against LPS-induced cell injury. Importantly, circ_0114428 knockdown inhibited ROCK2 production by interacting with miR-574-5p.

Conclusion

Circ_0114428 knockdown protected against LPS-induced HPAEpiC injury through miR-574-5p/ROCK2 axis, providing a novel therapeutic target in sepsis-induced ALI.
Polymer lipid hybrid nanoparticles encapsulated with Emodin combined with DOX reverse multidrug resistance of breast cancer via IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Gu Honghui , Meng Fansu , Sun Haidong , Yang Lina , Li Qi , Chen Zhong , Cai Tiange , Yang Zhenjiang , Cai Yu
Published: January 2024

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is one of the main reasons affecting the efficacy of chemotherapy in breast cancer (BC). Our previous studies constructed polymer lipid hybrid nanoparticles encapsulated with Emodin (EMO) (E-PLNs) and proved that they can inhibit epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and reverse MDR in BC. This study aims to explore the mechanisms by which the EMT involved in MDR and the E-PLNs exerted effects. The prepared E-PLNs were characterized by Dynamic light scattering, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray, and differential scanning calorimetry. The effects of drugs or treatments were evaluated by detecting cell viability, apoptosis, invasion, EMT markers, and MDR related proteins in vitro. The results showed that IL-6 could promote proliferation, EMT, invasion and MDR of MCF-7/ADR cells (induced from MCF-7 cells) by activating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, and these effects could be reversed by AG490 (JAK2 inhibitor) or E-PLNs combined with Doxorubicin (DOX). E-PLNs might be an effective MDR reversal agent for BC.
Characteristics of self-management education and support programmes for people with chronic diseases delivered by primary care teams: a rapid review
Authors: Allory Emmanuel , Scheer Jordan , De Andrade Vincent , Garlantézec Ronan , Gagnayre Rémi
Published: January 2024

Background

Primary care actors can play a major role in developing and promoting access to Self-Management Education and Support (SMES) programmes for people with chronic disease. We reviewed studies on SMES programmes in primary care by focusing on the following dimensions: models of SMES programmes in primary care, SMES team’s composition, and participants’ characteristics.

Methods

For this mixed-methods rapid review, we searched the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases to identify articles in English and French that assessed a SMES programme in primary care for four main chronic diseases (diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease and/or respiratory chronic disease) and published between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2021. We excluded articles on non-original research and reviews. We evaluated the quality of the selected studies using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. We reported the study results following the PRISMA guidelines.

Results

We included 68 studies in the analysis. In 46/68 studies, a SMES model was described by focusing mainly on the organisational dimension (n = 24). The Chronic Care Model was the most used organisational model (n = 9). Only three studies described a multi-dimension model. In general, the SMES team was composed of two healthcare providers (mainly nurses), and partnerships with community actors were rarely reported. Participants were mainly patients with only one chronic disease. Only 20% of the described programmes took into account multimorbidity. Our rapid review focused on two databases and did not identify the SMES programme outcomes.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the limited implication of community actors and the infrequent inclusion of multimorbidity in the SMES programmes, despite the recommendations to develop a more interdisciplinary approach in SMES programmes. This rapid review identified areas of improvement for SMES programme development in primary care, especially the privileged place of nurses in their promotion.

Trial registration

PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021268290.
Solid fuel use, socioeconomic status and depression: a cross-study of older adults in China
Authors: Duan Ying , Liu Zihao , Qi Qi , Liu Huaqing , Zhang Min
Published: January 2024

Background

Indoor air pollution causes severe psychological stress and promotes depression. A better understanding of the impact of solid fuel consumption and socioeconomic indicators on mental health is critical to promote successful aging. In this study, we analyzed the relationship of depression with socioeconomic status (SES) and solid fuel use, and illustrated the mediating role of solid fuel use in the relationship between SES and depression.

Methods

9250 participants from the 2018 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey were included in this study. A logistic regression analysis was used to calculate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of depression for different types of fuel consumption. The stepwise approach and the Sobel test were used to test the mediation effect.

Results

Older people who reported the consumption of solid fuels showed higher odds of having depressive symptoms (OR = 1.16, 95% CI:1.03, 1.31). In model with depression as the outcome variable, the ORs of low education level and low annual household income level were 1.30 (95% CI: 1.15, 1.47) and 1.43 (95% CI: 1.28, 1.59) respectively. Solid fuel consumption accounted for 38.40% of the effect of a low education level and 54.73% of the effect of low income on depression.

Conclusions

Solid fuel use and SES are associated with depression, and solid fuel use may act as a potential mediator connecting socioeconomic indicators and depression.
Urine biomarkers individually and as a consensus model show high sensitivity and specificity for detecting UTIs
Authors: Akhlaghpour Marzieh , Haley Emery , Parnell Laura , Luke Natalie , Mathur Mohit , Festa Richard A. , Percaccio Michael , Magallon Jesus , Remedios-Chan Mariana , Rosas Alain , Wang Jimin , Jiang Yan , Anderson Lori , Baunoch David
Published: January 2024

Background

Current diagnoses of urinary tract infection (UTI) by standard urine culture (SUC) has significant limitations in sensitivity, especially for fastidious organisms, and the ability to identify organisms in polymicrobial infections. The significant rate of both SUC “negative” or “mixed flora/contamination” results in UTI cases and the high prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria indicate the need for an accurate diagnostic test to help identify true UTI cases. This study aimed to determine if infection-associated urinary biomarkers can differentiate definitive UTI cases from non-UTI controls.

Methods

Midstream clean-catch voided urine samples were collected from asymptomatic volunteers and symptomatic subjects ≥ 60 years old diagnosed with a UTI in a urology specialty setting. Microbial identification and density were assessed using a multiplex PCR/pooled antibiotic susceptibility test (M-PCR/P-AST) and SUC. Three biomarkers [neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), and Interleukins 8 and 1β (IL-8, and IL-1β)] were also measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Definitive UTI cases were defined as symptomatic subjects with a UTI diagnosis and positive microorganism detection by SUC and M-PCR, while definitive non-UTI cases were defined as asymptomatic volunteers.

Results

We observed a strong positive correlation (R2 > 0.90; p < 0.0001) between microbial density and the biomarkers NGAL, IL-8, and IL-1β for symptomatic subjects. Biomarker consensus criteria of two or more positive biomarkers had sensitivity 84.0%, specificity 91.2%, positive predictive value 93.7%, negative predictive value 78.8%, accuracy 86.9%, positive likelihood ratio of 9.58, and negative likelihood ratio of 0.17 in differentiating definitive UTI from non-UTI cases, regardless of non-zero microbial density. NGAL, IL-8, and IL-1β showed a significant elevation in symptomatic cases with positive microbe identification compared to asymptomatic cases with or without microbe identification. Biomarker consensus exhibited high accuracy in distinguishing UTI from non-UTI cases.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that positive infection-associated urinary biomarkers NGAL, IL-8, and IL-1β, in symptomatic subjects with positive SUC and/or M-PCR results was associated with definitive UTI cases. A consensus criterion with ≥ 2 of the biomarkers meeting the positivity thresholds showed a good balance of sensitivity (84.0%), specificity (91.2%), and accuracy (86.9%). Therefore, this biomarker consensus is an excellent supportive diagnostic tool for resolving the presence of active UTI, particularly if SUC and M-PCR results disagree.
Feasibility of early radial artery occlusion recanalization and reuse through transradial access for neuroendovascular procedures
Authors: Cai Ranze , Jiang Yingchuang , Wu Jian , Li Qiuping , Qi Biao
Published: January 2024

Background

Radial artery occlusion (RAO) remains a significant limitation of neuroendovascular procedures peformed through transradial access (TRA) when radial artery needs to be reused. Instances of early RAO recanalization to successfully complete neuroendovascular procedures have been rarely documented.

Materials and methods

Documents and imaging data were extracted retrospectively for all patients who underwent TRA diagnostic angiography and neuroendovascular procedures in our center from June 2022 to February 2023. The patients with early RAO who required repeat TRA were included.

Results

A total of 46 patients underwent repeat TRA, and 13 consecutive patients who experienced early RAO after angiography as confirmed by ultrasonography were enrolled in this study. The occluded radial arteries were successfully recanalized, and subsequent neuroendovascular procedures were carried out successful. During an average follow-up time of 7.1 months, no patients exhibited symptomatic RAO, dissection, hematoma or pseudoaneurysm.

Conclusions

Early RAO recanalization and reused for neuroendovascular procedures through TRA is feasible. A visually guided and stable puncture process plays a crucial role in successfully recanalizing early RAO.
Clinical evaluation of noninvasive prenatal testing for sex chromosome aneuploidies in 9,176 Korean pregnant women: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Kim Hyunjin , Park Ji Eun , Kang Kyung Min , Jang Hee Yeon , Go Minyeon , Yang So Hyun , Kim Jong Chul , Lim Seo Young , Cha Dong Hyun , Choi Jungah , Shim Sung Han
Published: January 2024

Background

To evaluate the clinical significance of noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for detecting fetal sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCAs) in Korean pregnant women.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed NIPT data from 9,176 women with singleton pregnancies referred to the CHA Biotech genome diagnostics center. Cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) was extracted from maternal peripheral blood, and high-throughput massively parallel sequencing was conducted. Subsequently, the positive NIPT results for SCA were validated via karyotype and chromosomal microarray analyses.

Results

Overall, 46 cases were SCA positive after NIPT, including 20, 12, 8, and 6 for Turner, triple X, Klinefelter, and Jacob syndromes, respectively. Among 37 women with invasive prenatal diagnosis, 19 had true positive NIPT results. The overall positive predictive value (PPV) of NIPT for detecting SCAs was 51.35%. The PPV was 18.75% for Turner, 88.89% for triple X, 71.43% for Klinefelter, and 60.00% for Jacob’s syndromes. NIPT accuracy for detecting sex chromosome trisomies was higher than that for sex chromosome monosomy (P = 0.002). No significant correlation was observed between fetal SCA incidence and maternal age (P = 0.914), except for the borderline significance of Jacob’s syndrome (P = 0.048). No significant differences were observed when comparing NIPT and karyotyping validation for fetal SCA according to pregnancy characteristics.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that NIPT can reliably screen for SCAs, and it performed better in predicting sex chromosome trisomies compared with monosomy X. No correlation was observed between maternal age and fetal SCA incidence, and no association was observed between different pregnancy characteristics. The accuracy of these findings requires improvements; however, our study provides an important reference for clinical genetic counseling and further management. Larger scale studies, considering confounding factors, are required for accurate evaluation.