bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring patient perspectives on electronic patient-reported outcome measures in home-based cancer palliative care: A qualitative study
Authors: Consolo Letteria , Basile Ilaria , Colombo Stella , Rusconi Daniele , Pasquot Loredana , Campa Tiziana , Caraceni Augusto , Lusignani Maura
Published: April 2024

Background

Electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROMs) enhance symptom management and patients’ engagement in palliative cancer care. However, integrating them into this setting brings challenges, including patients’ familiarity with technological devices and declining health status. Prioritizing the patient's acceptability and feasibility is crucial for their adoption. However, more knowledge is needed about patients’ perspectives on the adoption of ePROMs in the community, especially for home-based palliative care.

Aim

Explore patient viewpoints on utilizing ePROMs for symptom reporting in home-based oncology palliative care.

Design

A qualitative interpretative approach was used to evaluate patients’ points of view on using ePROMs in this specific care setting. Semistructured interviews were carried out. Data were analyzed using a reflexive thematic analysis.

Setting/participants

A total of 25 patients receiving oncological home palliative care from the advanced palliative care unit of the Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori in Milan, Italy, were invited to participate. Twenty interviews were conducted, as five patients declined due to deteriorating health.

Results

Four themes were identified: (1) strategic value of ePROMs and subjective appreciation; (2) enhancing patient centeredness through ePROMs; (3) exploring and addressing concerns about the use of ePROMs and (4) intersecting factors influencing the efficacy of ePROMs

Conclusion

Despite initial reticence, home palliative care patients consider ePROMs as potentially valuable allies monitoring symptoms, enhancing their quality of life, and amplifying their voices on less explored aspects of care. Continuous dialog between healthcare professionals and patients is crucial for addressing patient skepticism about ePROMs and their impact on the human aspect of care.
Effect of wrist orthoses on upper limb function, activities of daily living, and stress response
Authors: Hirata Junya , Yoshimura Manabu , Inoue Keiko
Published: April 2024

Introduction

This study examined the effects on upper limb function, activities of daily living, and stress responses when wearing a wrist orthosis made of padded fiberglass or thermoplastic and provided essential information for selecting an orthosis.

Methods

Thirty-one healthy adults performed two tests while not wearing a wrist orthosis, wearing a padded fiberglass wrist orthosis, and wearing a thermoplastic wrist orthosis. The Purdue Pegboard Test examined upper limb control. In the second test, the actions indicated by the Hand20 questionnaire were performed while wearing a wrist orthosis. An electrocardiogram was obtained before and after each test to identify any changes in sympathetic nervous system activity.

Results

The Purdue Pegboard Test scores were significantly higher when not wearing a wrist orthosis than when wearing wrist orthosis, and the Hand20 scores for all question were significantly lower. Thermoplastic wrist orthoses had fewer restrictions for upper limb function compared to padded fiberglass wrist orthoses, however activities of daily living were more limited. The low frequency/high frequency ratio and high frequency measures showed no significant differences.

Conclusions

Pegboard test scores and the Hand 20 scores suggest that a wrist orthosis causes restriction of upper limb function.
Abnormal Vitreoretinal Interface Leading to Macular Hole–Associated Retinal Detachment in Straatsma Syndrome
Authors: Bleicher Isaac D. , Davila Jose , Eliott Dean
Published: April 2024

Introduction: To report a case of macular hole (MH)–associated retinal detachment (RD) with Straatsma syndrome. Methods: A clinical case was retrospectively reviewed. Results: A 39-year-old woman with Straatsma syndrome was treated for an MH-associated RD. The MH was closed with vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane peeling, during which an unusually strong vitreoretinal adhesion was encountered in the area of myelinated nerve fibers. One day postoperatively, the patient developed serous choroidal effusions and a serous RD, which resolved by postoperative week 1. The patient’s vision ultimately returned to baseline. Conclusions: The presence of an unusually strong vitreoretinal adhesion in the area of myelinated nerve fibers and the development of a postoperative serous RD suggest that myelination may contribute to vitreoretinal adhesion and the development of MHs in Straatsma syndrome.
Value Creed: Emerging Technology and Digitalization Initiatives Create Post-pandemic Joyous Workplace
Authors: Banerjee Tanushri , Soni Samridhi
Published: April 2024

In March 2020, Nitesh Raj, the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Value Creed, was keenly observing the changes around the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Small to mid-size companies such as Value Creed, with specialized offerings, faced a harder time retaining their employees and often lost them to bigger multinational companies. Value Creed’s core expertise lies in Information Technology Consulting, focusing on the energy trading and risk management)/commodity trading and risk management industry. During this tough period, Nitesh aimed to overcome challenges and achieve a future-ready workplace with low employee turnover, high retention and satisfaction. This case is in two parts: Part A describes the Dilemma of Nitesh Raj and Part B describes how emerging technology and digitalization initiatives have supported innovative HR strategic initiatives for introducing technology-driven employee welfare programmes focusing on managing the uncertainty after the COVID-19 pandemic, thus creating a workplace of joy.
Navigating the outcome maze: a scoping review of outcomes and instruments in clinical trials in genetic neurodevelopmental disorders and intellectual disability
Authors: Müller Annelieke R. , van Silfhout Nadia Y. , den Hollander Bibiche , Kampman Dick H. C. , Bakkum Lianne , Brands Marion M. M. G. , Haverman Lotte , Terwee Caroline B. , Schuengel Carlo , Daams Joost , Hessl David , Wijburg Frits A. , Boot Erik , van Eeghen Agnies M.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Individuals with genetic neurodevelopmental disorders (GNDs) or intellectual disability (ID) are often affected by complex neuropsychiatric comorbidities. Targeted treatments are increasingly available, but due to the heterogeneity of these patient populations, choosing a key outcome and corresponding outcome measurement instrument remains challenging.

Objectives:

The aim of this scoping review was to describe the research on outcomes and instruments used in clinical trials in GNDs and ID.

Eligibility criteria:

Clinical trials in individuals with GNDs and ID for any intervention over the past 10 years were included in the review.

Sources of evidence:

MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched. Titles and abstracts were independently screened for eligibility with a subsample of 10% double-screening for interrater reliability. Data from full texts were independently reviewed. Discrepancies were discussed until consensus was reached.

Charting methods:

Information was recorded on patient populations, interventions, designs, outcomes, measurement instruments, and type of reporter when applicable. Qualitative and descriptive analyses were performed.

Results:

We included 312 studies reporting 91 different outcomes, with cognitive function most frequently measured (28%). Various outcome measurement instruments ( n = 457) were used, with 288 in only a single clinical trial. There were 18 genetic condition-specific instruments and 16 measures were designed ad-hoc for one particular trial. Types of report included proxy-report (39%), self-report (22%), clinician-report (16%), observer-report (6%), self-assisted report (1%), or unknown (16%).

Conclusion:

This scoping review of current practice reveals a myriad of outcomes and outcome measurement instruments for clinical trials in GNDs and ID. This complicates generalization, evidence synthesis, and evaluation. It underlines the need for consensus on suitability, validity, and relevancy of instruments, ultimately resulting in a core outcome set. A series of steps is proposed to move from the myriad of measures to a more unified approach.
The migration and occupation of Li+ and Na+ in illite and montmorillonite during the heating process
Authors: Wu Zhenxiao , Li Shangying , Wang Yang , Cheng Hongfei
Published: April 2024

The impact of temperature on the migration of cations within layers of clay minerals is of profound significance for the design and practical application of materials derived from clay minerals. This study focuses on Li+ and Na+ as representative cations, together with illite (Ilt) and montmorillonite (Mnt) as representative clay minerals. The study investigates the behaviour of cation migration and occupation within clay minerals across varying temperatures. A series of samples were prepared meticulously by immersing illite and montmorillonite in Li+ and Na+ solutions, subsequently subjecting them to different temperatures (unheated, 100, 150, 200, 250 and 300°C) for 24 h. Through the use of techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), cation exchange capacity (CEC), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), magic angle rotating solid nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MAS NMR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), the study discerns structural transformations in illite and montmorillonite, and tracks the migration and occupation of Li+ and Na+. The findings reveal that following heating, Na+ and Li+ do not infiltrate the lattice of illite. For montmorillonite, Na+ also does not migrate into the montmorillonite lattice, however, in contrast, Li+ does exhibit migration into this lattice. Notably, the migration and occupation of interlayer Li+ within montmorillonite exhibit discernible temperature dependence. Specifically, upon reaching 150°C, interlayer Li+ migrate to ditrigonal cavities within the tetrahedral layers. As the temperature elevates to 200°C, Li+ further permeate vacant octahedral sites through the ditrigonal cavities, culminating in the formation of a localised trioctahedral structure.
Risk stratification refinements with inclusion of haemodynamic variables at follow-up in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Boucly Athénaïs , Beurnier Antoine , Turquier Ségolène , Jevnikar Mitja , de Groote Pascal , Chaouat Ari , Cheron Céline , Jaïs Xavier , Picard François , Prévot Grégoire , Roche Anne , Solinas Sabina , Cottin Vincent , Bauer Fabrice , Montani David , Humbert Marc , Savale Laurent , Sitbon Olivier
Published: April 2024

Background

Haemodynamic variables are prognostic factors in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, right heart catheterisation (RHC) is not systematically recommended to assess the risk status during follow-up. This study aimed to assess the added value of haemodynamic variables in prevalent patients to predict the risk of death or lung transplantation according to their risk status assessed by the non-invasive four-strata model as recommended by the European guidelines.

Methods

We evaluated incident patients with PAH enrolled in the French pulmonary hypertension registry between 2009 and 2020 who had a first follow-up RHC. Cox regression identified, in each follow-up risk status, haemodynamic variables significantly associated with transplant-free survival. Optimal thresholds were determined by time-dependent receiver operating characteristics. Several multivariable Cox regression models were performed to identify the haemodynamic variables improving the non-invasive risk stratification model.

Results

We analysed 1240 incident patients reassessed within 1 year by RHC. None of the haemodynamic variables were significantly associated with transplant-free survival among low-risk (n=386) or high-risk (n=71) patients. Among patients at intermediate (intermediate-low, n=483 and intermediate-high, n=300) risk at first follow-up, multivariable models including either stroke volume index (SVI) or mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) were the best. The prognostic performance of a refined six-strata risk stratification model including the non-invasive four-strata model and SVI >37 mL·m−2and/orSvO2>65% for patients at intermediate risk (area under the curve (AUC) 0.81; c-index 0.74) was better than that of the four-strata model (AUC 0.79, p=0.009; c-index 0.72).

Conclusion

Cardiopulmonary haemodynamics may improve risk stratification at follow-up in patients at intermediate risk.
CHMP5 attenuates osteoarthritis via inhibiting chondrocyte apoptosis and extracellular matrix degradation: involvement of NF-κB pathway
Authors: Gao Weilu , Liu Rui , Huang Keke , Fu Wenhan , Wang Anquan , Du Gongwen , Tang Hao , Yin Li , Yin Zongsheng S.
Published: April 2024

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common joint disease, is linked with chondrocyte apoptosis and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. Charged multivesicular body protein 5 (CHMP5), a member of the multivesicular body, has been reported to serve as an anti-apoptotic protein to participate in leukemia development. However, the effects of CHMP5 on apoptosis and ECM degradation in OA remain unclear.

Methods

In this study, quantitative proteomics was performed to analyze differential proteins between normal and OA patient articular cartilages. The OA mouse model was constructed by the destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM). In vitro, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) was used to induce OA in human chondrocytes. CHMP5 overexpression and silencing vectors were created using an adenovirus system. The effects of CHMP5 on IL-1β-induced chondrocyte apoptosis were investigated by CCK-8, flow cytometry, and western blot. The effects on ECM degradation were examined by western blot and immunofluorescence. The potential mechanism was explored by western blot and Co-IP assays.

Results

Downregulated CHMP5 was identified by proteomics in OA patient cartilages, which was verified in human and mouse articular cartilages. CHMP5 overexpression repressed cell apoptosis and ECM degradation in OA chondrocytes. However, silencing CHMP5 exacerbated OA chondrocyte apoptosis and ECM degradation. Furthermore, we found that the protective effect of CHMP5 against OA was involved in nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that CHMP5 repressed IL-1β-induced chondrocyte apoptosis and ECM degradation and blocked NF-κB activation. It was shown that CHMP5 might be a novel potential therapeutic target for OA in the future.
Neural Network Robust Control Based on Computed Torque for Lower Limb Exoskeleton
Authors: Han Yibo , Ma Hongtao , Wang Yapeng , Shi Di , Feng Yanggang , Li Xianzhong , Shi Yanjun , Ding Xilun , Zhang Wuxiang
Published: April 2024

The lower limb exoskeletons are used to assist wearers in various scenarios such as medical and industrial settings. Complex modeling errors of the exoskeleton in different application scenarios pose challenges to the robustness and stability of its control algorithm. The Radial Basis Function (RBF) neural network is used widely to compensate for modeling errors. In order to solve the problem that the current RBF neural network controllers cannot guarantee the asymptotic stability, a neural network robust control algorithm based on computed torque method is proposed in this paper, focusing on trajectory tracking. It innovatively incorporates the robust adaptive term while introducing the RBF neural network term, improving the compensation ability for modeling errors. The stability of the algorithm is proved by Lyapunov method, and the effectiveness of the robust adaptive term is verified by the simulation. Experiments wearing the exoskeleton under different walking speeds and scenarios were carried out, and the results show that the absolute value of tracking errors of the hip and knee joints of the exoskeleton are consistently less than 1.5°and 2.5°, respectively. The proposed control algorithm effectively compensates for modeling errors and exhibits high robustness.
The research trends and future prospects of nanomaterials in breast cancer
Authors: Li Yue , Li Xiaoqing , Li Aoqun , Zhu Jingyan , Lin Zhenhua , Yang Yang
Published: April 2024

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths among women globally and the most deadly illness for them. New advances in nanotechnology have led to the development of strategies intended to target breast cancer cells more precisely while causing the least amount of damage to healthy cells. We retrieved articles about nanomaterials for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database between 2008 and 2023. Our research aims to assess publications on the use of nanomaterials for breast cancer treatment and diagnosis to predict future research directions.

Results

A total of 457 papers on nanomaterials in breast cancer were discovered from various nations, with China being the primary source and the United States having the highest H index. The number of papers in this discipline is increasing on an annual basis. The Egyptian Knowledge Bank is an important research center in this sector. The International Journal of Nanomedicine has the most papers, and Kesharwani P is the most frequently referenced author. The most quoted article was written by Miele, Evelina of India in 2009. Topics such as drug delivery may be emerging areas of research.

Conclusion

Our findings predict that the use of nanomaterials in medication delivery will become a significant research area in the future, and provide valuable references for scholars investigating the role of nanotechnology in breast cancer.
Effects of four bolete species on ectomycorrhizae formation and development in Pinus thunbergii and Quercus acutissima
Authors: Tan Qianwen , You Lunhe , Hao Chen , Wang Jianrui , Liu Yu
Published: April 2024

Background

Bolete cultivation is economically and ecologically valuable. Ectomycorrhizae are advantageous for plant development and productivity. This study investigated how boletes affect the formation of Pinus thunbergii and Quercus acutissima ectomycorrhizae using greenhouse-based mycorrhizal experiments, inoculating P. thunbergii and Q. acutissima with four species of boletes (Suillus bovinus, Suillus luteus, Suillus grevillei, and Retiboletus sinensis).

Results

Three months after inoculation, morphological and molecular analyses identified S. bovinus, S. luteus, S. grevillei and R. sinensis ectomycorrhizae formation on the roots of both tree species. The mycorrhizal infection rate ranged from 40 to 55%. The host plant species determined the mycorrhiza morphology, which was independent of the bolete species. Differences in plant growth, photosynthesis, and endogenous hormone secretion primarily correlated with the host plant species. Infection with all four bolete species significantly promoted the host plants’ growth and photosynthesis rates; indole-3-acetic acid, zeatin, and gibberellic acid secretion increased, and the abscisic acid level significantly decreased. Indole-3-acetic acid was also detected in the fermentation broths of all bolete species.

Conclusions

Inoculation with bolete and subsequent mycorrhizae formation significantly altered the morphology and hormone content in the host seedlings, indicating growth promotion. These findings have practical implications for culturing pine and oak tree species.
Production of kojic acid by Aspergillus flavus OL314748 using box-Behnken statistical design and its antibacterial and anticancer applications using molecular docking technique
Authors: Mahmoud Ghada Abd-Elmonsef , Abdel Shakor Abo bakr , Kamal-Eldin Nahla A. , Zohri Abdel-Naser A.
Published: April 2024

Kojic acid is a wonderful fungal secondary metabolite that has several applications in the food, medical, and agriculture sectors. Many human diseases become resistant to normal antibiotics and normal treatments. We need to search for alternative treatment sources and understand their mode of action. Aspergillus flavus ASU45 (OL314748) was isolated from the caraway rhizosphere as a non-aflatoxin producer and identified genetically using 18S rRNA gene sequencing. After applying the Box-Behnken statistical design to maximize KA production, the production raised from 39.96 to 81.59 g/l utilizing (g/l) glucose 150, yeast extract 5, KH2PO4 1, MgSO4.7H2O 2, and medium pH 3 with a coefficient (R2) of 98.45%. Extracted KA was characterized using FTIR, XRD, and a scanning electron microscope. Crystalized KA was an effective antibacterial agent against six human pathogenic bacteria (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Serratia marcescens, and Serratia plymuthica). KA achieves high inhibition activity against Bacillus cereus, K. pneumonia, and S. plymuthica at 100 μg/ml concentration by 2.75, 2.85, and 2.85 compared with chloramphenicol which gives inhibition zones 1, 1.1, and 1.6, respectively. Crystalized KA had anticancer activity versus three types of cancer cell lines (Mcf-7, HepG2, and Huh7) and demonstrated high cytotoxic capabilities on HepG-2 cells that propose strong antitumor potent of KA versus hepatocellular carcinoma. The antibacterial and anticancer modes of action were illustrated using the molecular docking technique. Crystalized kojic acid from a biological source represented a promising microbial metabolite that could be utilized as an alternative antibacterial and anticancer agent effectively.
Genomic characterization and probiotic potential assessment of an exopolysaccharide-producing strain Pediococcus pentosaceus LL-07 isolated from fermented meat
Authors: Lu Kuan , Wang Xueya , Zhou Ying , Zhu Qiujin
Published: April 2024

Background

The genomic information available for Pediococcus pentosaceus is primarily derived from fermented fruits and vegetables, with less information available from fermented meat. P. pentosaceus LL-07, a strain isolated from fermented meat, has the capability of producing exopolysaccharides (EPS). To assess the probiotic attributes of P. pentosaceus LL-07, we conducted whole-genome sequencing (WGS) using the PacBio SequelIIe and Illumina MiSeq platforms, followed by in vitro experiments to explore its probiotic potential.

Results

The genome size of P. pentosaceus LL-07 is 1,782,685 bp, comprising a circular chromosome and a circular plasmid. Our investigation revealed the absence of a CRISPR/Cas system. Sugar fermentation experiments demonstrated the characteristics of carbohydrate metabolism. P. pentosaceus LL-07 contains an EPS synthesis gene cluster consisting of 13 genes, which is different from the currently known gene cluster structure. NO genes associated with hemolysis or toxin synthesis were detected. Additionally, eighty-six genes related to antibiotic resistance were identified but not present in the prophage, transposon or plasmid. In vitro experiments demonstrated that P. pentosaceus LL-07 was comparable to the reference strain P. pentosaceus ATCC25745 in terms of tolerance to artificial digestive juice and bile, autoaggregation and antioxidation, and provided corresponding genomic evidence.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the safety and probiotic properties of P. pentosaceus LL-07 via complete genome and phenotype analysis, supporting its characterization as a potential probiotic candidate.
GMOIT: a tool for effective screening of genetically modified crops
Authors: Zhou Pu , Liu Xuan , Liang Jingang , Zhao Juanli , Zhang Yuqi , Xu Dongmei , Li Xiaying , Chen Ziyan , Shi Zongyong , Gao Jianhua
Published: April 2024

Background

Advancement in agricultural biotechnology has resulted in increasing numbers of commercial varieties of genetically modified (GM) crops worldwide. Though several databases on GM crops are available, these databases generally focus on collecting and providing information on transgenic crops rather than on screening strategies. To overcome this, we constructed a novel tool named, Genetically Modified Organisms Identification Tool (GMOIT), designed to integrate basic and genetic information on genetic modification events and detection methods.

Results

At present, data for each element from 118 independent genetic modification events in soybean, maize, canola, and rice were included in the database. Particularly, GMOIT allows users to customize assay ranges and thus obtain the corresponding optimized screening strategies using common elements or specific locations as the detection targets with high flexibility. Using the 118 genetic modification events currently included in GMOIT as the range and algorithm selection results, a “6 + 4” protocol (six exogenous elements and four endogenous reference genes as the detection targets) covering 108 events for the four crops was established. Plasmids pGMOIT-1 and pGMOIT-2 were constructed as positive controls or calibrators in qualitative and quantitative transgene detection.

Conclusions

Our study provides a simple, practical tool for selecting, detecting, and screening strategies for a sustainable and efficient application of genetic modification.
Continuous serratus posterior superior intercostal plane block for postoperative analgesia management in the patient who underwent right atrial mass excision: a case report
Authors: Akin Ayşe Nurmen , Yildiz Yahya , Alver Selcuk , Ciftci Bahadir
Published: April 2024

Serratus posterior intercostal plane block (SPSIPB) is a novel periparavertebral block. It provides anterolateral posterior chest wall analgesia. It is an interfascial plane block, performed under ultrasound guidance, and the visualization of landmarks is easy. It is performed deep into the serratus posterior superior muscle at the level of the third rib. Until now, there have been case reports about the usage of single-shot SPSIPB, but there are no reports about the usage of the block catheterization technique of SPSIPB. Continuous infusion from a catheter of interfascial plane blocks is important for postoperative analgesia management after painful surgeries such as thoracic and cardiac surgeries. Thus, we performed SPSIPB catheterization in a patient who underwent right atrial mass excision with minimally invasive thoracotomy surgery. Here, we present our successful analgesic experience with continuous SPSIPB in this case report.
Analysis of differential metabolites in serum metabolomics of patients with aortic dissection
Authors: Gong Yun , Li Tangzhiming , Liu Qiyun , Wang Xiaoyu , Deng Zixian , Cheng Lixin , Yu Biao , Liu Huadong
Published: April 2024

Background

Pathogenesis and diagnostic biomarkers of aortic dissection (AD) can be categorized through the analysis of differential metabolites in serum. Analysis of differential metabolites in serum provides new methods for exploring the early diagnosis and treatment of aortic dissection.

Objectives

This study examined affected metabolic pathways to assess the diagnostic value of metabolomics biomarkers in clients with AD.

Method

The serum from 30 patients with AD and 30 healthy people was collected. The most diagnostic metabolite markers were determined using metabolomic analysis and related metabolic pathways were explored.

Results

In total, 71 differential metabolites were identified. The altered metabolic pathways included reduced phospholipid catabolism and four different metabolites considered of most diagnostic value including N2-gamma-glutamylglutamine, PC(phocholines) (20:4(5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z)/15:0), propionyl carnitine, and taurine. These four predictive metabolic biomarkers accurately classified AD patient and healthy control (HC) samples with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.9875. Based on the value of the four different metabolites, a formula was created to calculate the risk of aortic dissection. Risk score = (N2-gamma-glutamylglutamine × -0.684) + (PC (20:4(5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z)/15:0) × 0.427) + (propionyl carnitine × 0.523) + (taurine × -1.242). An additional metabolic pathways model related to aortic dissection was explored.

Conclusion

Metabolomics can assist in investigating the metabolic disorders associated with AD and facilitate a more in-depth search for potential metabolic biomarkers.
Does engagement matter? The impact of patient and community engagement on implementation of cardiovascular health materials in primary care settings
Authors: Zittleman Linda , Westfall John M. , Callen Danelle , Herrick Alisha M. , Nkouaga Carolina , Simpson Matthew , Dickinson L. Miriam , Fernald Douglas , Kaufman Arthur , English Aimee F. , Dickinson W. Perry , Nease Donald E.
Published: April 2024

Background

Engaging patients and community members in healthcare implementation, research and evaluation has become more popular over the past two decades. Despite the growing interest in patient engagement, there is scant evidence of its impact and importance. Boot Camp Translation (BCT) is one evidence-based method of engaging communities in research. The purpose of this report is to describe the uptake by primary care practices of cardiovascular disease prevention materials produced through four different local community engagement efforts using BCT.

Methods

EvidenceNOW Southwest (ENSW) was a randomized trial to increase cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention in primary care practices. Because of its study design, Four BCTs were conducted, and the materials created were made available to participating practices in the “enhanced” study arm. As a result, ENSW offered one of the first opportunities to explore the impact of the BCT method by describing the uptake by primary care practices of health messages and materials created locally using the BCT process. Analysis compared uptake of locally translated BCT products vs. all other products among practices based on geography, type of practice, and local BCT.

Results

Within the enhanced arm of the study that included BCT, 69 urban and 13 rural practices participated with 9 being federally qualified community health centers, 14 hospital owned and 59 clinician owned. Sixty-three practices had 5 or fewer clinicians. Two hundred and ten separate orders for materials were placed by 43 of the 82 practices. While practices ordered a wide variety of BCT products, they were more likely to order materials developed by their local BCT.

Conclusions

In this study, patients and community members generated common and unique messages and materials for cardiovascular disease prevention relevant to their regional and community culture. Primary care practices preferred the materials created in their region. The greater uptake of locally created materials over non-local materials supports the use of patient engagement methods such as BCT to increase the implementation and delivery of guideline-based care. Yes, patient and community engagement matters.

Trial registration and IRB

Trial registration was prospectively registered on July 31, 2015 at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02515578, protocol identifier 15–0403). The project was approved by the Colorado Multiple Institutional Review Board and the University of New Mexico Human Research Protections Office.
Imaging-based diagnosis of sarcopenia for transplant-free survival in primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Keshoofi Pedram , Schindler Philipp , Rennebaum Florian , Cordes Friederike , Morgul Haluk , Wildgruber Moritz , Heinzow Hauke S. , Pascher Andreas , Schmidt Hartmut H. , Hüsing-Kabar Anna , Praktiknjo Michael , Trebicka Jonel , Seifert Leon Louis
Published: April 2024

Background

Imaging-based assessment of sarcopenia is a well-validated prognostic tool for patients with chronic liver disease. However, little is known about its value in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the predictive value of the cross-sectional imaging-based skeletal muscle index (SMI) for transplant-free survival (TFS) in patients with PSC.

Methods

A total of 95 patients with PSC who underwent abdominal cross-sectional imaging between 2008 and 2022 were included in this retrospective study. SMI was measured at the third lumbar vertebra level (L3-SMI). The cut-off values to define sarcopenia were < 50 cm²/m² in male patients and < 39 cm²/m² in female patients. The primary outcome of this study was TFS, which was defined as survival without liver transplantation or death from any cause.

Results

Our study indicates that L3-SMI sarcopenia impairs TFS in patients with PSC (5-year TFS: 33.9% vs. 83.3%, p = 0.001, log-rank test). L3-SMI sarcopenia was independently associated with reduced TFS via multivariate Cox regression analysis (HR = 2.749; p = 0.028). Body mass index reduction > 10% at 12 months, which is used as MELD standard exception (SE) criterion in Eurotransplant (in Germany only until September 2023), was not significantly associated with TFS in the multivariate Cox regression analysis (HR = 1.417; p = 0.330). Substitution of BMI reduction with L3-SMI in the German SE criteria improved the predictive accuracy of TFS compared to the established SE criteria (multivariable Cox regression analysis: HR = 4.007, p < 0.001 vs. HR = 1.691, p = 0.141).

Conclusion

Imaging-based diagnosis of sarcopenia via L3-SMI is associated with a low TFS in patients with PSC and may provide additional benefits as a prognostic factor in patient selection for liver transplantation.
Chronic meningitis in adults: a comparison between neurotuberculosis and neurobrucellosis
Authors: Shirazinia Matin , Sheybani Fereshte , Naderi HamidReza , Haddad Mahboubeh , Hajipour Pouria , Khoroushi Farzaneh
Published: April 2024

Background

In regions endemic for tuberculosis and brucellosis, distinguishing between tuberculous meningitis (TBM) and brucella meningitis (BM) poses a substantial challenge. This study investigates the clinical and paraclinical characteristics of patients with TBM and BM.

Methods

Adult patients diagnosed with either TBM or BM who were admitted to two referral hospitals between March 2015 and October 2022, were included, and the characteristics of the patients were analyzed.

Results

Seventy patients formed the study group, 28 with TBM and 42 with BM, were included. TBM patients had a 2.06-fold (95% CI: 1.26 to 3.37, P-value: 0.003) higher risk of altered consciousness and a 4.80-fold (95% CI: 1.98 to 11.61, P-value: < 0.001) higher risk of extra-neural involvement as compared to BM patients. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed a significantly higher percentage of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) in TBM compared to BM (Standardized mean difference: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.18 to 1.20, P-value: 0.008). Neuroimaging findings indicated higher risks of hydrocephalus (P-value: 0.002), infarction (P-value: 0.029), and meningeal enhancement (P-value: 0.012) in TBM compared to BM. Moreover, TBM patients had a 67% (95% CI: 21% to 131%, P-value:0.002) longer median length of hospital stay and a significantly higher risk of unfavorable outcomes (Risk ratio: 6.96, 95% CI: 2.65 to 18.26, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study emphasizes that TBM patients displayed increased frequencies of altered consciousness, PMN dominance in CSF, extra-neural involvement, hydrocephalus, meningeal enhancement, and brain infarction. The findings emphasize the diagnostic difficulties and underscore the importance of cautious differentiation between these two conditions to guide appropriate treatment strategies.
Evaluation of preadipocyte factor-1 (Pref-1) level in cord blood of newborns born by mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)
Authors: Kolska Monika , Agier Justyna , Kozłowska Elżbieta
Published: April 2024

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common metabolic complication, which leads to short and long-term consequences in both mother and fetus exposed to hyperglycemia. The aetiology of this condition is proposed to be based on the dysfunction of the adipose tissue, which is characterised by the aberrant generation of adipokines. One of them is preadipocyte factor-1 (Pref-1), which could mediate controlling the adaptation of the maternal metabolism to pregnancy.

Aims

The study aims to examine the level of Pref-1 in the cord blood of healthy pregnant women’s neonates and fetuses born to mothers with GDM.

Materials and methods

Cord blood samples were collected from 30 newborns of mothers with GDM and 40 newborns of healthy pregnant women. Pref-1 concentrations were measured with an ELISA kit.

Results

Fetal Pref-1 concentrations were significantly lower in newborns of mothers with GDM compared to the normal pregnancy group children (5.32 ± 0.29 vs. 7.38 ± 0.53; p < 0.001). Mothers with GDM had a significantly higher index of BMI before pregnancy, maternal gestational weight gain, and maternal fasting glucose. In-depth analysis through multiple variant linear regression revealed a significant association between fetal serum Pref-1 levels, exposure to GDM, and gestational age.

Conclusion

These findings contribute valuable insights into maternal-fetal health and pave the way for more targeted and effective clinical interventions.
Identifying the most representative actigraphy variables reflecting standardized hand function assessments for remote monitoring in children with unilateral cerebral palsy
Authors: Hwang Youngsub , Kwon Jeong-Yi
Published: April 2024

Background

Accurate assessment of physical activity and motor function in children with cerebral palsy is crucial for determining the effectiveness of interventions. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between real-world activity monitoring outcomes and in-laboratory standardized hand function assessments in children with unilateral cerebral palsy.

Methods

Actigraphy data were collected over 3 days from children aged 4–12 years with unilateral cerebral palsy before in-laboratory assessments. To tackle the high dimensionality and collinearity of actigraphy variables, we first applied hierarchical clustering using the Pearson correlation coefficient as the distance metric and then performed a principal component analysis (PCA) to reduce the dimensionality of our data.

Results

Both hierarchical clustering and PCAs revealed a consistent pattern in which magnitude ratio variables (ln[affected side magnitude/less-affected side magnitude]) were more strongly associated with standardized assessments of hand function than with activity time and distance domain variables. Hierarchical clustering analysis identified two distinct clusters of actigraphy variables, with the second cluster primarily consisting of magnitude ratio variables that exhibited the strongest correlation with Melbourne Assessment 2, Pediatric Motor Activity Log, Assisting Hand Assessment, and Manual Ability Classification System level. Principal component 2, primarily representing the magnitude ratio domain, was positively associated with a meaningful portion of subcategories of standardized measures, whereas principal component 1, representing the activity time and distance component, showed limited associations.

Conclusions

The magnitude ratio of actigraphy can provide additional objective information that complements in-laboratory hand function assessment outcomes in future studies of children with unilateral cerebral palsy.

Trial registration in ClinicalTrials.gov

NCT04904796 (registered prospectively; date of registration: 23/05/2021).
Prevalence and factors associated with digital addiction among students taking university entrance tests: a GIS-based study
Authors: Al-Mamun Firoj , Hasan Md Emran , Mostofa Nahida Bintee , Akther Marzia , Mashruba Tahnin , Arif Mohammad , Chaahat Amatul Haque , Salam Anha Bushra , Akter Maksuda , Abedin Md Al Asif , Bulbul Md. Imtiaj Ahmad , Adnan Md Shoeb , Islam Md. Shafiul , Ahmed Mst. Shauda , Shahin Md. Sultan Mahmud , Islam Saiful , Hussain Mumtaz Mohammed , Al Habib Abdullah , ALmerab Moneerah Mohammad , Gozal David , Muhit Mohammad , Roy Nitai , Mamun Mohammed A.
Published: April 2024

Background

The surge in digital media consumption, coupled with the ensuing consequences of digital addiction, has witnessed a rapid increase, particularly after the initiation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite some studies exploring specific technological addictions, such as internet or social media addiction, in Bangladesh, there is a noticeable gap in research focusing on digital addiction in a broader context. Thus, this study aims to investigate digital addiction among students taking the university entrance test, examining its prevalence, contributing factors, and geographical distribution using GIS techniques.

Methods

Data from a cross-sectional survey were collected from a total of 2,157 students who were taking the university entrance test at Jahangirnagar University, Bangladesh. A convenience sampling method was applied for data collection using a structured questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS 25 Version and AMOS 23 Version, whereas ArcGIS 10.8 Version was used for the geographical distribution of digital addiction.

Results

The prevalence of digital addiction was 33.1% (mean score: 16.05 ± 5.58). Those students who are attempting the test for a second time were more likely to be addicted (42.7% vs. 39.1%), but the difference was not statistically significant. Besides, the potential factors predicted for digital addiction were student status, satisfaction with previous mock tests, average monthly expenditure during the admission test preparation, and depression. No significant difference was found between digital addiction and districts. However, digital addiction was higher in the districts of Manikganj, Rajbari, Shariatpur, and Chittagong Hill Tract areas, including Rangamati, and Bandarban.

Conclusions

The study emphasizes the pressing need for collaborative efforts involving educational policymakers, institutions, and parents to address the growing digital addiction among university-bound students. The recommendations focus on promoting alternative activities, enhancing digital literacy, and imposing restrictions on digital device use, which are crucial steps toward fostering a healthier digital environment and balanced relationship with technology for students.
Impact of home quarantine on physical fitness of school-aged children in Xi’an during COVID-19 lockdown: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Xinglu , Lu Zijun , Liu Tao , Sun Yuliang
Published: April 2024

Background

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has sparked unprecedented global challenges. This study intends to investigate changes in the physical fitness of students aged 6–22 during the COVID-19 pandemic and to assess how the pandemic lockdown period affected these markers.

Methods

According to the National Student Physical Health Standard, a stratified cluster sampling method was used to evaluate the body shape, body function, and physical fitness of children and adolescents (n = 8092) in Xi’an from 2019 to 2021. This study uses SPSS 26.0 (IBM, Chicago, IL, USA) for data statistics and analysis. The connection between physical fitness and years was measured using the one-variable analysis in the general linear model (GLM). Independent t-tests were used to determine the sex (male/female) and area (urban/rural) differences.

Results

During the lockdown period, Body Mass Index (BMI) and flexibility showed an upward trend, while aerobic, strength, speed, and endurance showed a downward trend. In addition to the BMI of middle and high school students, almost all indicators show significant sex differences. There are urban-rural differences in some indicators, such as chin-ups.

Conclusion

During the pandemic of COVID-19, the physical fitness of children and adolescents in Xi’an did not change significantly, and there were slight differences among different grades. During the pandemic lockdown period, lifestyle changes and reduced outdoor activities for children and adolescents may be the reasons for the changing trend of various indicators.
The good, the bad and the ugly – a Swedish qualitative interview study about the landscape of meaning-imbued, exercise-related physical pain, as experienced by ‘normal’ gym-users
Authors: Pelters Pelle
Published: April 2024

Background

The gym is a well-known place for health promoting or rehabilitating exercise whose availability to all is regarded significant for people’s personal health work and the public’s health. In this context, physical pain is usually discussed as something negative that people seek to dispose of. However, certain painful experiences appear to be an appreciated part of the gym experience. To investigate this seemingly contradictory landscape of meaning-imbued physical pain, the study aims to explore the different kinds of physical pain present at the gym and their significance for exercising, as experienced by ‘normal’ gym-users.

Methods

24 semi-structured in-depth interviews with active, dedicated, reasonably healthy (= normal) adult gym-users have been analyzed using qualitative content analysis from a hermeneutical stance.

Results

Participants differentiate between three kinds of physical pain: the good pain of enhancement (often connected to muscle soreness and effort burn), the bad pain of impediment (primarily related to acute damage) and the composite, neutral pain of acceptance (potentially linked to all pains).

Conclusion

When pursuing the goal of personal health development, normal gym-users argue that exercising at the gym means to expose yourself to pain and to do so willingly, even longingly. Refusing to share this understanding may diminish people’s chances to occupy the gym space and, hence, reduce their chances to promote their health.
Socio-economic inequities in mental health problems and wellbeing among women working in the apparel and floriculture sectors: testing the mediating role of psychological capital, social support and tangible assets
Authors: Schelleman-Offermans Karen , Dito Bilisuma B. , Gudeta Konjit H. , Fourie Elsje , Kebede Sindu W. , Mazzucato Valentina , Jonas Kai J.
Published: April 2024

Background

It is still unknown whether the mechanisms proposed by the Reserve Capacity Model (RCM) explaining socio-economic health and wellbeing inequities in high income countries can be applied to low-income countries. This study investigates whether different reserve capacities (intra-, inter-personal, and tangible) can explain the association between relative socio-economic position (SEP) and wellbeing outcome measures among Ethiopian women working in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

Method

Using a cross-sectional design, we collected quantitative survey data among 2,515 women working in the apparel and floriculture sectors in Ethiopia, measuring GHQ-12 mental health problems, multi-dimensional wellbeing, relative SEP, psychological capital (PsyCap), social support (emotional and financial social support network), and tangible assets (e.g., owning mobile phone, having access to toilet facilities). We used cluster-adjusted structural equation modelling to test whether PsyCap, social support, and/or tangible assets mediate the association between relative SEP (IV) and GHQ-12 mental health problems and multi-dimensional wellbeing (DVs).

Results

PsyCap and the size of the financial support network significantly mediate the socio-economic gradient in both wellbeing outcomes. The size of the emotional social support network shows no association with multi-dimensional wellbeing and shows an unexpected negative association with GHQ-12 mental health problems scores, including a significant mediation effect. Tangible assets show no association with the wellbeing outcome measures and do not mediate socio-economic mental health problems and wellbeing inequities.

Conclusions

The RCM can be applied in low-income countries, although in unexpected ways. Similar to findings from high-income countries, PsyCap and size of the financial social support network show significant mediation effects in explaining mental health problems and wellbeing inequities in Ethiopia. These reserves could therefore serve as a buffer for socio-economic inequities in mental health and wellbeing and can therefore assist in decreasing these inequities for women working in FDI sectors in Ethiopia.