bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of miRNA-10b Expression Levels as a Potential Precursor to Metastasis in Localized and Locally Advanced/Metastatic Breast Cancer among Iraqi Patients
Authors: Abdallah Mays , Aziz Ismail H. , Alsammarraie Ahmed Zuhair
Published: February 2024

Breast cancer (BC) stands as the most prevalent form of carcinoma among women, ranking as the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the female population. The objective of this study is to assess the expression of miR-10b and determine its diagnostic and prognostic significance in breast cancer patients across various disease stages. The investigation was carried out in Baghdad at the Oncology Teaching Hospital within Baghdad Medical City and the Oncology Unit at Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital. A total of 150 samples were included and divided into two groups: the blood group consisting of 90 samples (including control subjects, localized BC patients, and those with metastatic and locally advanced BC) and the tissue group comprising 60 samples (representing both benign and malignant BC cases). The study spanned from March 2022 to January 2023, with patients’ ages ranging from 24 to 75 years. The primary focus of this investigation was to identify the gene expression of miRNA-10b in all sample types. This was achieved by measuring gene expression levels and normalizing them to the level of a housekeeping gene (U6), and quantification was carried out considering the ΔCt value and the fold change method (2−ΔΔCt). The results revealed an upregulated fold expression of miRNA-10b, particularly in locally advanced and metastatic BC, where the expression was significantly higher compared to the other groups, with a fold expression of 1.770±0.1070. In localized breast cancer, the fold expression was 1.624±0.064, and in malignant tissue, it measured 1.546±0.06754, all relative to apparently healthy control subjects. In summary, our research provides compelling evidence supporting the classification of miRNA-10b as an oncogenic factor in BC. The central involvement of miRNA-10b in the tumorigenic processes of BC highlights its reference for developing novel targeted therapeutic interventions and detection biomarkers for BC treatment. Notably, elevated expression of miRNA-10b was observed in BC tissues, correlating with an unfavorable distant metastasis-free survival outcome.
Association between Axial Length to Corneal Curvature Radius Ratio and Myopia in Adult Patients
Authors: Fan Yanyun , Huang Yikeng , Huang Xionggao
Published: February 2024

Purpose. To analyze the distribution characteristics of axial length to corneal curvature radius ratio (AL/CR) and other ocular biometric parameters in adult myopia patients and their association with myopia. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with no eye diseases except ametropia who attended the optometry clinic of the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College from January 2022 to June 2022. In total, 187 eyes (right eye) of 187 myopic patients aged 18–35 years were selected by random sampling. Based on the results of spherical equivalent (SE, (D)) obtained by postdilation optometry, all subjects were divided into three groups: mild myopia (≤−0.50D and >−3.00D, 42 eyes), moderate myopia (≤−3.00D and >−6.00D, 80 eyes), and high myopia (≤−6.00D, 65 eyes). The axial length (AL), corneal curvature radius (CR), and AL/CR were measured and compared between the three groups. The association between AL and AL/CR of the eye and SE was analyzed by multiple linear regression. Also, the predictive ability of AL/CR for high myopia was investigated by ROC curve. Results. There were no statistically significant differences in age, gender, or intraocular pressure between the three groups. The mean values of AL/CR in mild, moderate, and high myopia groups were 3.17 ± 0.06, 3.31 ± 0.08, and 3.43 ± 0.10, respectively, and the difference between the groups was statistically significant P<0.001). Linear regression analysis showed that both AL and AL/CR were strongly negatively correlated with SE (P<0.05), while CR had a weak positive correlation with SE without statistically significant differences (P>0.05). The adjusted linear regression equation shows that for every 0.1 unit increase in AL/CR, SE increases by 1.54 D. Compared with 0.830 (95% confidence interval: 0.769 to 0.900) for AL, the area under ROC curve of AL/CR was 0.896 (95% confidence interval: 0.851 to 0.941), indicating that the diagnostic value of AL/CR for high myopia was higher than that of AL (P< 0.01). When the Youden index reached its maximum (0.626), the AL/CR cutoff point was 3.309, and the sensitivity and specificity were 0.954 and 0.672, respectively. Conclusion. This study showed that AL and AL/CR in adult myopia patients were significantly negatively correlated with SE, and the corralation between AL/CR and SE is greater than that between AL and SE. Therefore, AL/CR can be used to analyze the dynamic changes of SE in the development of adult myopia independently of optometry on a certain basis, and it is especially suitable for the diagnosis of high myopia in adults. This trial is registered with ChiCTR2300069070.
A Bus‐Service‐Based Zone Division Approach for the Spatial Analysis of Public Bus: A Case Study in South China
Authors: Fu Fanghao , Xie Jiemin , Cai Ming , Huang Wei
Published: February 2024

Public bus is one of the major green transport modes in most cities, and a proper analysis of public bus can enhance its sustainable development. Hence, the analysis of public bus is always a hot research topic. Generally, to consider the heterogeneity in the studied area and reduce the computation difficulties, the study area is divided into multiple zones and then various analytical methods are applied. However, an improper zone division could lower the quality of the analysis results and then probably mislead the improvement strategy design. This study examines the influence of the two commonly used zone division methods (the grid‐based method and the natural‐boundary‐based method) on the spatial analysis of public bus service using the analytical example. The result shows that the impact of zone division exists. Therefore, this study aims to identify the possible approach to reduce the negative impact and suggests a new zone division method, the bus‐service‐based (BS‐based) method, for the spatial analysis of public bus service. The BS‐based method is compared with the commonly used zone division methods using the real‐world data, and the comparison results demonstrate that the BS‐based method can be more efficient to support the spatial analysis of bus service.
HLA Gene Polymorphisms in Romanian Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Tizu Maria , Calenic Bogdan , Hârza Mihai , Cristea Bogdan M. , Maruntelu Ion , Caragea Andreea M. , Talangescu Adriana , Dima Alina , Constantinescu Alexandra E. , Constantinescu Ileana
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives. Numerous genome-wide association studies have highlighted that chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a lymphoproliferative disorder with an important genetic component. An important number of genes have been implicated in CLL etiology, with some of the most important being human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes. The aim of this study was to analyze the association of CLL with certain HLA alleles in the Romanian population and to compare our results with previous findings. Materials and Methods. This study included 66 patients with CLL, diagnosed between 2020 and 2022, and 100 healthy controls. HLA class I and class II genes (HLA-A/B/C, HLA-DQA1/DQB1/DPA1/DPB1, and HLA-DRB1/3/4/5) were investigated using next-generation sequencing technology. Results. Several HLA alleles were strongly associated with CLL. The most important finding was that HLA-DRB1∗04:02:01 (p=0.001, OR = 1.05) and HLA-DRB3∗02:01:01 (p=0.009, OR = 1.03) have a predisposing role in CLL development. Moreover, we identified that HLA-A∗24:02:01 0.01 (p=0.01, OR = 0.38), HLA-DQA1∗05:05:01 (p=0.01, OR = 0.56), HLA-DQB1∗03:02:01 (p=0.03, OR = 0.40), and HLA-DRB4∗01:03:01 (p=0.03, OR = 0.54 alleles have protective roles. Correlations between HLA expression and gender showed that women had a higher expression of protective HLA alleles when compared to men. Conclusions. Our data are the first to indicate that in Romanian patients with CLL, the HLA-A∗24:02:01 and HLA-DQA1∗05:05:01 alleles have a protective role against CLL development, whereas HLA-DRB1∗04:02:01 and HLA-DRB3∗02:01:01alleles are positively associated with CLL.
Facile Conversion and Optimization of Structured Illumination Image Reconstruction Code into the GPU Environment
Authors: Oh Kwangsung , Bianco Piero R.
Published: February 2024

Superresolution, structured illumination microscopy (SIM) is an ideal modality for imaging live cells due to its relatively high speed and low photon-induced damage to the cells. The rate-limiting step in observing a superresolution image in SIM is often the reconstruction speed of the algorithm used to form a single image from as many as nine raw images. Reconstruction algorithms impose a significant computing burden due to an intricate workflow and a large number of often complex calculations to produce the final image. Further adding to the computing burden is that the code, even within the MATLAB environment, can be inefficiently written by microscopists who are noncomputer science researchers. In addition, they do not take into consideration the processing power of the graphics processing unit (GPU) of the computer. To address these issues, we present simple but efficient approaches to first revise MATLAB code, followed by conversion to GPU-optimized code. When combined with cost-effective, high-performance GPU-enabled computers, a 4- to 500-fold improvement in algorithm execution speed is observed as shown for the image denoising Hessian-SIM algorithm. Importantly, the improved algorithm produces images identical in quality to the original.
Longitudinal Rates of Change in Structural Parameters of Optical Coherence Tomography in Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma following Laser Iridotomy along with Peripheral Iridoplasty
Authors: Cho Hyun-Kyung , Kee Changwon
Published: February 2024

Background. This study aimed to investigate longitudinal rates of change (LRCs) of structural parameters from optical coherence tomography (OCT) in patients with primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) after laser iridotomy (LI) along with laser peripheral iridoplasty (PI). Methods. Among 146 patients diagnosed with PACG, thirty-two subjects (32 eyes) who underwent LI plus PI and accomplished more than five times of reliable OCT tests were included in the current retrospective study. Retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and Bruch’s membrane opening-minimum rim width (BMO-MRW) were measured by spectral-domain OCT with three month interval. LRCs of global and six Garway-Heath sectors were investigated using the linear mixed-effects model which adjusted BMO area, sex, and age. Imaging of dual Scheimpflug analyzer was performed before and at 1 week after LI with PI and yearly thereafter. Results. The mean follow-up period was 32.28 ± 13.34 months with a mean number of 10.18 ± 3.33 OCT images. Baseline characteristics are as follows: age, 63 ± 7.9 years; female, 62.5%; intraocular pressure(IOP), 15.48 ± 4.79 mmHg; anterior chamber depth, 2.09 ± 0.18 mm; and mean deviation, −7.97 ± 8.48 dB. Global LRC of BMO-MRW was 0.86 ± 1.34 μm/yr and RNFL was −0.64 ± 0.22 μm/yr. IOP decreased significantly to 13.06 ± 2.21 mmHg (p=0.001) while anterior chamber volume (p=0.011) and mean anterior chamber angle (p=0.022) increased significantly after LI along with PI compared to the baseline at the final visit. Conclusions. LRC of a new parameter, BMO-MRW, and LRC of RNFL were relatively low in patients with PACG, following LI along with PI. After widening of the anterior chamber angle and decrease of IOP due to LI plus PI, PACG might show stable structural prognosis assessed by OCT.
Ataxia-Telangiectasia Mutated Loss-of-Function Displays Variant and Tissue-Specific Differences across Tumor Types
Authors: Pilié Patrick G. , Giuliani Virginia , Wang Wei-Lien , McGrail Daniel J. , Bristow Christopher A. , Ngoi Natalie Y.L. , Kyewalabye Keith , Wani Khalida M. , Le Hung , Campbell Erick , Sanchez Nora S. , Yang Dong , Gheeya Jinesh S. , Goswamy Rohit Vivek , Holla Vijaykumar , Shaw Kenna Rael , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Liu Chiu-Yi , Ma XiaoYan , Feng Ningping , Machado Annette A. , Bardenhagen Jennifer P. , Vellano Christopher P. , Marszalek Joseph R. , Rajendra Eeson , Piscitello Desiree , Johnson Timothy I. , Likhatcheva Maria , Elinati Elias , Majithiya Jayesh , Neves Joana , Grinkevich Vera , Ranzani Marco , Luzarraga Marina Roy , Boursier Marie , Armstrong Lucy , Geo Lerin , Lillo Giorgia , Tse Wai Yiu , Lazar Alexander J. , Kopetz Scott E. , Geck Do Mary K. , Lively Sarah , Johnson Michael G. , Robinson Helen M.R. , Smith Graeme C.M. , Carroll Christopher L. , Di Francesco M. Emilia , Jones Philip , Heffernan Timothy P. , Yap Timothy A.
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

Mutations in the ATM gene are common in multiple cancers, but clinical studies of therapies targeting ATM-aberrant cancers have yielded mixed results. Refinement of ATM loss of function (LOF) as a predictive biomarker of response is urgently needed.

Experimental Design:

We present the first disclosure and preclinical development of a novel, selective ATR inhibitor, ART0380, and test its antitumor activity in multiple preclinical cancer models. To refine ATM LOF as a predictive biomarker, we performed a comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of ATM variants in patient tumors and then assessed the ATM variant-to-protein relationship. Finally, we assessed a novel ATM LOF biomarker approach in retrospective clinical data sets of patients treated with platinum-based chemotherapy or ATR inhibition.

Results:

ART0380 had potent, selective antitumor activity in a range of preclinical cancer models with differing degrees of ATM LOF. Pan-cancer analysis identified 10,609 ATM variants in 8,587 patient tumors. Cancer lineage–specific differences were seen in the prevalence of deleterious (Tier 1) versus unknown/benign (Tier 2) variants, selective pressure for loss of heterozygosity, and concordance between a deleterious variant and ATM loss of protein (LOP). A novel ATM LOF biomarker approach that accounts for variant classification, relationship to ATM LOP, and tissue-specific penetrance significantly enriched for patients who benefited from platinum-based chemotherapy or ATR inhibition.

Conclusions:

These data help to better define ATM LOF across tumor types in order to optimize patient selection and improve molecularly targeted therapeutic approaches for patients with ATM LOF cancers.
89Zr-ImmunoPET for the Specific Detection of EMP2-Positive Tumors
Authors: Chan Ann M. , Olafsen Tove , Tsui Jessica , Salazar Felix B. , Aguirre Brian , Zettlitz Kirstin A. , Condro Michael , Wu Anna M. , Braun Jonathan , Gordon Lynn K. , Ashki Negin , Whitelegge Julian , Xu Shili , Ikotun Oluwatayo , Lee Jason Thanh , Wadehra Madhuri
Published: February 2024

Epithelial membrane protein-2 (EMP2) is upregulated in a number of tumors and therefore remains a promising target for mAb-based therapy. In the current study, image-guided therapy for an anti-EMP2 mAb was evaluated by PET in both syngeneic and immunodeficient cancer models expressing different levels of EMP2 to enable a better understanding of its tumor uptake and off target accumulation and clearance. The therapeutic efficacy of the anti-EMP2 mAb was initially evaluated in high- and low-expressing tumors, and the mAb reduced tumor load for the high EMP2-expressing 4T1 and HEC-1-A tumors. To create an imaging agent, the anti-EMP2 mAb was conjugated to p-SCN-Bn-deferoxamine (DFO) and radiolabeled with 89Zr. Tumor targeting and tissue biodistribution were evaluated in syngeneic tumor models (4T1, CT26, and Panc02) and human tumor xenograft models (Ramos, HEC-1-A, and U87MG/EMP2). PET imaging revealed radioactive accumulation in EMP2-positive tumors within 24 hours after injection, and the signal was retained for 5 days. High specific uptake was observed in tumors with high EMP2 expression (4T1, CT26, HEC-1-A, and U87MG/EMP2), with less accumulation in tumors with low EMP2 expression (Panc02 and Ramos). Biodistribution at 5 days after injection revealed that the tumor uptake ranged from 2 to approximately 16%ID/cc. The results show that anti-EMP2 mAbs exhibit EMP2-dependent tumor uptake with low off-target accumulation in preclinical cancer models. The development of improved anti-EMP2 Ab fragments may be useful to track EMP2-positive tumors for subsequent therapeutic interventions.
Glioblastoma-Infiltrating CD8+ T Cells Are Predominantly a Clonally Expanded GZMK+ Effector Population
Authors: Wang Anthony Z. , Mashimo Bryce L. , Schaettler Maximilian O. , Sherpa Ngima D. , Leavitt Lydia A. , Livingstone Alexandra J. , Khan Saad M. , Li Mao , Anzaldua-Campos Markus I. , Bradley Joseph D. , Leuthardt Eric C. , Kim Albert H. , Dowling Joshua L. , Chicoine Michael R. , Jones Pamela S. , Choi Bryan D. , Cahill Daniel P. , Carter Bob S. , Petti Allegra A. , Johanns Tanner M. , Dunn Gavin P.
Published: February 2024

Recent clinical trials have highlighted the limited efficacy of T cell–based immunotherapy in patients with glioblastoma (GBM). To better understand the characteristics of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in GBM, we performed cellular indexing of transcriptomes and epitopes by sequencing and single-cell RNA sequencing with paired V(D)J sequencing, respectively, on TILs from two cohorts of patients totaling 15 patients with high-grade glioma, including GBM or astrocytoma, IDH-mutant, grade 4 (G4A). Analysis of the CD8+ TIL landscape reveals an enrichment of clonally expanded GZMK+ effector T cells in the tumor compared with matched blood, which was validated at the protein level. Furthermore, integration with other cancer types highlights the lack of a canonically exhausted CD8+ T-cell population in GBM TIL. These data suggest that GZMK+ effector T cells represent an important T-cell subset within the GBM microenvironment and may harbor potential therapeutic implications.

Significance:

To understand the limited efficacy of immune-checkpoint blockade in GBM, we applied a multiomics approach to understand the TIL landscape. By highlighting the enrichment of GZMK+ effector T cells and the lack of exhausted T cells, we provide a new potential mechanism of resistance to immunotherapy in GBM.

This article is featured in Selected Articles from This Issue, p. 897
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Combined with Bedtime Restriction, versus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Hertenstein Elisabeth , Trinca Ersilia , Schneider Carlotta L. , Fehér Kristoffer D. , Johann Anna F. , Nissen Christoph
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is the current first-line treatment for insomnia. However, rates of nonresponse and nonremission are high and effects on quality of life are only small to moderate, indicating a need for novel treatment developments. We propose that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) addresses core pathophysiological pathways of insomnia. ACT therefore has the potential to improve treatment efficacy when combined with bedtime restriction, the most effective component of CBT-I. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of ACT for insomnia combined with bedtime restriction (ACT-I) and CBT-I in improving insomnia severity and sleep-related quality of life. Methods: Sixty-three patients with insomnia disorder (mean age 52 years, 65% female, 35% male) were randomly assigned to receive either ACT-I or CBT-I in a group format. The primary outcomes were insomnia severity (Insomnia Severity Index) and sleep-related quality of life (Glasgow Sleep Impact Index). Outcomes were assessed before randomization (T0), directly after treatment (T1), and at 6-month follow-up (T2). Results: The results indicated significant, large pre-to-post improvements in both groups, for both primary and secondary outcomes. Improvements were maintained at the 6-month follow-up. However, there was no significant group by time interactions in linear mixed models, indicating an absence of differential efficacy. On a subjective treatment satisfaction scale, patients in the ACT-I group indicated significantly greater satisfaction with their improvement of several aspects of health including their energy level and work productivity. Conclusions: The results suggest that ACT-I is feasible and effective, but not more effective than CBT-I for the improvement of insomnia severity and sleep-related quality of life. Future studies are needed to assess whether ACT-I is noninferior to CBT-I and to shed light on mechanisms of change in both treatments.
Myocardial Aging among a Population-Based Cohort Is Associated with Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes and Sex-Specific Differences among Older Adults
Authors: Gao Fei , Tan Ru-San , Teo Louis L.Y. , Ewe See Hooi , Koh Woon-Puay , Tan Kelvin B. , Koh Angela S.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Despite growing calls to tackle aging-related cardiovascular disease (CVD), the role of detecting early diastolic dysfunction such as those observed in aging, prior to clinical disease, is of unclear clinical benefit. Methods: Myocardial function determined by echocardiography was examined in association with incident cardiovascular outcomes or all-cause death by Cox proportional hazards model. Sex-based differences in outcomes were included. Results: A total of 956 participants (mean age 63 ± 12.9 years, n = 424 males [44%]) were categorized based on mitral peak early-to-late diastolic filling velocity (E/A) ratios: E/A <0.8 (28%), E/A 0.8–1.2 (39%), E/A (29%), E/A >2.0 (4%). Incidence rate (IR) for non-fatal cardiovascular outcomes was 2.83 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 2.24–3.56) and 0.45 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 0.26–0.80) for all-cause death. Event-free survival from non-fatal cardiovascular outcomes was significantly different among E/A categories (log-rank p = 0.0269). E/A <0.8 (HR 1.80, 95% CI: 1.031, 3.14, p = 0.039) was associated with non-fatal cardiovascular outcomes. Among men, IR for cardiovascular outcomes was 3.56 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 2.62–4.84) and 0.75 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 0.39–1.44) for all-cause death. Among women, IR for cardiovascular outcomes was 2.22 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 1.56–3.16) and 0.21 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 0.067–0.64) for all-cause death. For E/A <0.8 category, women had significantly higher risks of non-fatal cardiovascular outcomes, compared to E/A 0.8–1.2 category (HR 2.49, 95% CI: 1.18, 5.23, p = 0.017). Conclusion: Myocardial aging was an independent predictor of cardiovascular outcomes in community-dwelling older adults prior to clinical CVD. Impaired myocardial relaxation was prevalent in both sexes but associated with worse outcomes in women, suggestive of sex differences in age-related biology.
Prognostic Value of Pathological Response for Patients with Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma Undergoing Conversion Surgery
Authors: Zeng Zhen-Xin , Wu Jia-Yi , Wu Jun-Yi , Zhang Zhi-Bo , Wang Kai , Zhuang Shao-Wu , Li Bin , Zhou Jian-Yin , Lin Zhong-Tai , Li Shu-Qun , Li Yi-Nan , Fu Yang-Kai , Yan Mao-Lin
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Transarterial chemoembolization combined with lenvatinib and PD-1 inhibitor (triple therapy) has displayed encouraging clinical outcomes for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). We aimed to explore the prognostic value of pathological response (PR) in patients with initially uHCC who underwent conversion surgery following triple therapy and identify predictors of major pathological response (MPR). Methods: A total of 76 patients with initially uHCC who underwent conversion surgery following triple therapy were retrospectively analyzed. PR was calculated as the proportion of nonviable tumor cell surface area of the whole tumor bed surface area. MPR was identified when PR was ≥90%. Pathological complete response (pCR) was defined as the absence of viable tumor cells. Results: MPR and pCR were identified in 53 (69.7%) and 25 (32.9%) patients, respectively. The 1- and 2-year overall survival in patients with MPR were significantly higher than in those without MPR (100.0% and 91.3% vs. 67.7% and 19.4%; p < 0.001). The corresponding recurrence-free survival was also improved in patients with MPR compared to those without (75.9% and 50.8% vs. 22.3% and 11.2%; p < 0.001). Similar results were observed among patients with pCR and those without. Patients who achieved MPR without pCR exhibited survival rates comparable to those of patients who achieved pCR. Baseline neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio ≥2.6 (p = 0.016) and preoperative alpha-fetoprotein level ≥400 ng/mL (p = 0.015) were independent predictors of MPR. Conclusion: The presence of MPR or pCR could improve prognosis in patients with initially uHCC who underwent conversion surgery following triple therapy. The PR may become a surrogate marker for predicting the prognosis of these patients.
Novel Insights from Clinical Practice Autologous Blood Patch Pleurodesis and Endobronchial Valves for Management of Persistent Air Leaks in Two Cases of Tuberculosis
Authors: Martinez Aida F. , Tom Zachary , Hsia David W. , Vintch Janine , Yee Nathan
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Pulmonary infections, such as tuberculosis, can result in numerous pleural complications including empyemas, pneumothoraces with broncho-pleural fistulas, and persistent air leak (PAL). While definitive surgical interventions are often initially considered, management of these complications can be particularly challenging if a patient has an active infection and is not a surgical candidate. Case Presentation: Autologous blood patch pleurodesis and endobronchial valve placement have both been described in remedying PALs effectively and safely. PALs due to broncho-pleural fistulas in active pulmonary disease are rare, and we present two such cases that were managed with autologous blood patch pleurodesis and endobronchial valves. Conclusion: The two cases presented illustrate the complexities of PAL management and discuss the treatment options that can be applied to individual patients.
Awareness of Phymill treatment for cerebral palsy kids among university students’ perspective
Authors: Ariffin Rabiatul Aisyah , Mohd Hasni Nur Hazreen , Mohd Adib Mohd Azrul Hisham
Published: February 2024

Cerebral palsy (CP) kids are a group of disorders that affect their mobility. This health condition is somewhat of a crucial disability and requires treatment to have a better lifestyle as they grow older. It is important to acknowledge the existence of this CP and ways to battle or treat it. Currently, the physio-treadmill (PhyMill) is well developed for CP kids. In this study, we focus on a quantitative survey that was conducted to predictors of the knowledge towards CP and PhyMill among university students, and to observe the awareness of the treatment based on ergonomics, biomechanics, and safety aspects using the PhyMill. The results showed that a huge percentage of students are aware of the knowledge of CP and how to know if an individual is experiencing this disability. The responses for the function of PhyMill have shown the students that the function of the PhyMill is to stimulate the conditioning of a healthier lifestyle in patients with this health condition. The responsive feedback of treatment on ergonomics, biomechanics, and safety aspects also shows comfortable, user-friendly, and good safety inventions by using PhyMill. The significance of this study is would explore the possibility of PhyMill to enhance the performance of patient treatment.
Models and policies for family development, population control, and family planning: a scoping review
Authors: Astuti Dhesi Ari , Hasibuan Khoirunnisah , Realita Friska , Hisan Urfa Khairatun
Published: February 2024

Uncontrolled population growth causes poverty, hunger, disease and death. Ironically, population explosions usually occur in developing countries, while population growth is usually low, zero, or even negative in developed countries. Considering these factors, this research aims to formulate effective family planning and population control methods to improve the quality of family development. In this research we present a scoping review article regarding family development models and policies, population control, and family planning. A comprehensive search was conducted in major databases, including PubMed, EBSCO, ProQuest, and ScienceDirect, via presentation methods using PRISMA-ScR guidelines. As a result, we found 16 articles meeting the eligibility criteria. The findings of this research provide insight to stakeholders and researchers into how family development, population control, and family planning policies can be modeled so that effective results can be achieved.
Psychometric properties of a questionnaire on medical students’ satisfaction with a community health program
Authors: Alzayani Salman , Almarabheh Amer , Al-Roomi Khaldoon , Alsayyad Adel
Published: February 2024

Changes in the learning modes during the recent COVID-19 pandemic has provided a need to construct a feedback questionnaire to measure medical students’ satisfaction with community-based health programs. A total of 551 forms which has a 5-point Likert scale were submitted by the medical students upon concluding the public health program in 2018-2021 (which includes face-to-face and virtual learning). Reliability coefficients were estimated for each factor (domain) with values >0.70. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to assess the validity of the instrument, using principal components analysis with varimax rotation. EFA identified two factors; the first included 6 items (67.031%) of the total variance, the second explained 4 items (10.114%) and together explained 77.15%. root mean squared error of approximation (RMSEA): 0.074; normed fit index (NFI): 0.975; comparative fit index (CFI): 0.981; incremental fit index (IFI): 0.981; goodness of fit index (GFI): 0.956; Tucker Lewis index (TLI): 0.972. The overall students’ satisfaction had a Cronbach’s alpha test of 0.945 with a 95% confidence interval (0.938-0.952), and a reliability using Guttman Split-Half for overall was 0.894. Students’ satisfaction questionnaire with the public health program has a good reliability and validity in contrasting educational situations and it is worthwhile to include as part of the quality improvement.
The level of nutritional and health awareness among female athletes in Jordan
Authors: Jawarneh Randa Saleh , Obeidat Lubna Mahmoud , Al-Momani Mohammad Omar , Theiyabat Emadeddln Mohammad
Published: February 2024

The study aimed to identify women's awareness levels in Jordan about food nutrition and health due to the importance of her being the head of the family and directly responsible for feeding the entire family. Starting with the child and the rest of the family members, where the descriptive approach was used, which was done through the use of a questionnaire that consisted of seven domains as a tool for the study, which was applied to a sample of (1,000) married women from the governorates of Ajloun, Irbid, Jerash, Mafraq, and the capital, Amman, who was selected in a simple random way. Where the study concluded, that the general level of nutritional and health awareness for women was average. In addition, their level of awareness was low in the following areas: (carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables, children's nutrition, while moderate in adult nutrition, milk, and its products, proteins, and pregnant women's nutrition. The study also found that there is a positive and significant correlation between the level of women's awareness and their subjective factors represented by (their level of education, economic status, children's education, cultural contact, and husband's education), while the correlation was negative and significant with (age and number of children).
Development of compliance theory based on self-regulation in chronic kidney failure patients on hemodialysis
Authors: Melastuti Erna , Nursalam Nursalam , Sukartini Tintin , Priyantini Diah
Published: February 2024

Self-management in regulating diet, fluids, activities, and medication in chronic renal failure patients which getting hemodialysis is still worse. This research aimed to develop the theory of compliance based on self-regulation to increase patient obedience and awareness. A cross-sectional approach of 130 respondents was recruited using simple random sampling. Structural equation modeling partial least square (SEM-PLS) was the statistical analysis for this study. All indicators in the outer model showed outer loading value >0.7, it declared feasible to predict each of the latent variables. The R-square value of appraisal latent was 0.576, Coping was 0.897, and self-care compliance was 0.713. The model was relevant when applied in other research studies with a Q-Square value=0.832. The goodness of fit (GoF) was 0.832>0.36, which means that the model was applied well. The appraisal variable is the strongest variable that influences coping, based on the hypothesis test. The self-regulation-based compliance model for blood pressure, interdialytic weight gain (IDWG), sodium levels, and functional independence can be developed through analysis of the structural model.
Model development of early breastfeeding initiation and exclusive preparation
Authors: Indrasari Nelly , Mugiati Mugiati , Octaviana Amrina , Djayasinga Rodhiansyah
Published: February 2024

The research was conducted in June-September 2022. The early breastfeeding initiation rate (EBI) in one of the districts in Indonesia in 2022 will only reach 8.74%, of the target of 42%. This study aimed to increase the percentage of EBI implementation in birthing mothers and the success of EBI in the first 30 minutes of labor through the development of EBI model. The research method uses a quasi-experimental control group design. The population is 96 people. The sample is the total population, consisting of 48 people closest to pregnant women plus 48 people in the control group. The effect of mentoring shows significant results on the success of EBI because of the value of p=0.002. The mother's educational contribution did not affect the success of EBI between the intervention group and the control group (p=0.774). The family support factor resulted in a significant EBI win between the intervention and control groups (p=0.000). The achievement of EBI provision was 100% of the target of 60%, the achievement of EBI>1 hour was 7.2%, and EBI<1 hour was 92.8%.
Knowledge of tuberculosis among physicians working at community health stations in Vietnam
Authors: Ly Tran Thi , Hoa Nguyen Phuong , Nguyet Nguyen Thi , Thuy Hoang Thu , Giang Pham Ngan
Published: February 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant health problem worldwide, including in Vietnam, where around 174,000 newly diagnosed cases and 13,200 patients died in 2018. There are challenges in the diagnostic process, treatment, and follow-up. The physicians with knowledge of TB working at commune health stations play an essential role in this struggle. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate knowledge of TB and related factors among physicians working at community health stations in the Northern provinces of Vietnam. A cross-sectional survey was implemented on 335 physicians working at community health stations in 5 Northern provinces in Vietnam from September 2019 to October 2020. The result showed that the TB knowledge of physicians was not good. There were some severe knowledge gaps concerning at-risk groups, the main symptoms of TB, sputum tests for both diagnosis and follow-up and management of attack therapy. The TB training participants had better TB knowledge than others (aOR=1.68; 95%CI: 1.047-2.712). This study underlines the importance of clinical experience and TB training to TB knowledge. We suggest that a TB training plan is required for physicians. Our survey results could inform the process of defining the physicians who work at community health stations' role in TB management in the future.
The influence of tourist satisfaction on revisit intention: the moderating role of health consciousness
Authors: Suliyanto Suliyanto , Rahab Rahab , Arini Destia Vindha
Published: February 2024

Cleanliness, health, safety, and environment sustainability (CHSE) certification is an indicator of a COVID-19-safe tourist destination. Baturraden tourist destination has received a CHSE level certificate very good but the effect is not yet known on tourist satisfaction and intention to visit again. This study aimed to analyze the effect of the element CHSE on revisit intention through tourist satisfaction and health consciousness as a moderating variable. This research is survey research by collecting data from 149 respondents who had visited the Baturraden tourist destination. Five Likert scale is used to measure research construct. To test the causal relationship between constructs, structural equational modelling (SEM) with SmartPLS is used. The findings of this research are cleanliness, environmental sustainability, health, and safety have a positive effect on tourist satisfaction, and tourist satisfaction has a positive effect on revisit intention, but health consciousness and the moderating effect of health consciousness have no effect on revisit intention.
Analysis of digital literacy development to improve skills, competence, and self-confidence in students
Authors: Budi Savitri Citra , Putri Divi Galih Prasetyo
Published: February 2024

Education is an essential aspect of human resource development. Additional learning facilities in the form of patient acceptance digital literacy are needed to improve students' skills and competencies before carrying out work practices. This study aimed to analyze the need for developing digital literacy in patient admission applications in health services. This investigation adopts a qualitative research methodology characterized by an exploratory perspective. Data gathering encompassed conducting interviews, observations, and reviewing documentary materials. Digital literacy patient acceptance of applications needs to be developed immediately to support the preparation for practical work activities. Things that need to be designed to create digital literacy are the function features provided, the display of the dashboard menu, and the material the participants must master. This research was successful in helping to collect the data needed to develop digital literacy in patient admission applications in health services. This research is expected to offer insights that can be valuable for future studies focused on enhancing digital literacy through characteristics, interfaces, and learning materials.
Review of global burden of disease studies: trends, challenges, and future directions
Authors: Otorkpa Oche Joseph , Otorkpa Chinenye Oche , Emmanuel Stephen , Olaiya Abiodun Paul , Auta Helen Shnada , Daniel Ebenezer Obi , Adebola Onifade Adefunmilola , Ojodale Paul Isaac
Published: February 2024

Global burden of disease (GBD) studies plays an important role in assessing the variability of risk factors, injuries, and diseases worldwide, providing essential evidence for policy-making and healthcare planning. This study presents a review of current literature on GBD studies, aiming to analyze the trends, challenges, and future directions in this field. We conducted a review of published GBD studies from inception to date, utilizing major scientific databases and relevant sources. Our findings reveal several noteworthy trends in GBD studies. Over the years, GBD studies have expanded to cover a wider range of diseases and risk factors, providing a more comprehensive understanding of global health. Advances in data availability, technology, and modeling techniques have improved the accuracy of disease burden estimates. The inclusion of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) has enabled comparisons as well as prioritization of interventions. However, challenges remain, such as limited data in middle and low-income countries and methodological complexities. The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the need for responsive methodologies. Future directions include strengthening data collection, utilizing machine learning, big data analytics, ethical use of artificial intelligence and promoting collaboration for consistent GBD studies.
Exploring relational aggression and gender dynamics: a global and Indonesian perspective
Authors: Syahputra Yuda , Neviyarni Neviyarni , Afdal Afdal
Published: February 2024

Girls generally use less physical aggression than boys. However, does this mean that girls are more likely to use relational aggression. With this question in mind, our study aims to analyze the relational aggression of students in Indonesia based on gender. This type of research used is comparative research. The sample in this study was 510 respondents consisting of 19.6% male and 80.4% female. The relational aggression scale (RAS) was used to collect data on student relational aggression in various regions in Indonesia. The analysis technique used is descriptive and differences with the Welch test. The results show that there are significant differences in male and female relational aggression, with an average score difference of -0.30 logit between men and women. In addition, there are fluctuations in the level of relational aggression in the context of gender from year to year in some countries, such as the United States, China, Australia, and others. Recommendations for future research are to integrate a more in-depth social and cultural analysis in Indonesia.
Supportive psychotherapeutic intervention and video directing observed therapy to increase family adherence
Authors: Supratti Supratti , Zees Rini Fahriani , Gobel Hafni Van , Adam Lusiane , Luawo Herman Priyono
Published: February 2024

To determine the effect of supportive psychotherapy and video-directing observed therapy interventions on family compliance in assisting patients with mental disorders in the working area of the Kabila Health Center, Bone Bolango District, Gorontalo City. Research design quasi-experimental design with a one group pre- and post-test design, where the variables to be measured are family adherence in providing treatment assistance, which are included in the dependent variable. The independent variables in this study were supportive psychotherapy and video-directed observation therapy. The sampling technique used was a total sampling technique with a sample size of 39 respondents. Data analysis was performed using univariate analysis, namely descriptive analysis (frequency, percentage, median, minimum value, and maximum value) and bivariate analysis (Wilcoxon test), with a significance level of <0.05, which was performed using SPSS version 25 software. Supportive psychotherapy and video-directing observed therapy increased family compliance accompanying the treatment of patients with mental disorders (p-value of x1=0.020, x2=0.000, p<0.05). Supportive psychotherapy interventions and video-directed observed therapy have been proven to increase family compliance in treatment assistance, which can improve the quality of life of patients with mental disorders.
Potential Effects of Mild Atrial Secondary Mitral Regurgitation in Patients With Isolated Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Akashi Jun , Iwataki Mai , Nabeshima Yosuke , Onoue Takeshi , Hayashi Atsushi , Tanaga Tetsuo , Nishino Shun , Kimura Toshiyuki , Yano Mitsuhiro , Watanabe Nozomi , Tsuda Yuki , Araki Masaru , Shibata Yoshisato , Nishimura Yosuke , Otsuji Yutaka , Kataoka Masaharu
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Patients with only moderate atrial secondary mitral regurgitation (asMR) frequently develop heart failure (HF). Mechanisms of HF with moderate asMR and the impact of mild asMR remain unclarified. Although mild/moderate primary mitral regurgitation is compensated by left ventricular (LV) dilatation, the LV is not dilated in asMR. We hypothesized that patients with mild asMR without LV dilatation may have impaired hemodynamics and higher risks of subsequent symptomatic HF deterioration.

METHODS:

Stroke volume, cardiac output, and systolic pulmonary artery pressure were measured by echocardiography in 142 patients with isolated atrial fibrillation and 30 healthy controls. The prognosis of patients with isolated atrial fibrillation was followed up.

RESULTS:

In the 142 patients with isolated atrial fibrillation, asMR was no/trivial in 55, mild in 83, moderate in 4, while none had severe asMR. Compared with controls and patients with no/trivial asMR, LV end-diastolic volume index was not increased and hemodynamic parameters were abnormal in patients with mild asMR (LV end-diastolic volume index, 65±6 versus 58±8 versus 60±8 mL/m²; stroke volume index, 42±4 versus 35±4 versus 29±6 mL/m²;
P
<0.001 versus other 2 groups; cardiac output index, 2.8±0.4 versus 2.8±0.5 versus 2.3±0.6 L/min per m²;
P
<0.001; systolic pulmonary artery pressure, 21±3 versus 26±5 versus 37±9 mm Hg;
P
<0.001). Although the event-free rate of HF symptomatic deterioration or hospitalization in patients with no/trivial asMR during a median 13.9 months follow-up was 86.9% and 100%, the rate in mild asMR was 59.4% and 85.0% (
P
<0.001 or
P
=0.032), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

In the presence of isolated AF and no compensatory LV dilatation, impaired hemodynamics and higher risks of symptomatic HF deterioration were associated with mild asMR, requiring further studies of causalities.
Islamic Apocalyptic Jurisprudence
Authors: Khadem Ali Rod
Published: February 2024

This article introduces Islamic apocalyptic jurisprudence (theories of final law that will govern humanity in the End Times) to academic study. Section 1 considers why the topic has remained unexamined and suggests a basic taxonomy. Section 2 exposes the apocalyptic jurisprudence of two case studies, representing the “reversionist” and “progressivist” poles of Sunni discourses: the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (“isis”), and Dāwūd and his “Awaited Mahdī” movement in Egypt. Section 3 considers two further case studies, representing the “revanchist” and “idealist” orientations in Shi‘i discourses: the Islamic Republic of Iran, and al-Ṣadr, a theorist of the Iraqi Ṣadrist movement. Throughout, the following aspects of the final legal system are considered: sources of law; conflicts between Islamic, Jewish, Christian, and international laws; the jurist’s role; changes to classical Islamic legal theory, including qiyas and ijtihad; the legitimacy of legal schools; and new positive laws, policies, and rules of evidence.
Urban-Rural Differences in Life Satisfaction
Authors: Grosse Ingrid
Published: February 2024

International research has shown that residents in urban versus rural areas differ concerning their satisfaction in life. Researchers agree upon the relevance of economic aspects for explaining urban-rural satisfaction levels: life satisfaction is dependent on income levels and rural habitants usually have lower income levels and lower levels of life satisfaction internationally. However, there is a lot of variation unexplained: in several studies, researchers found that in some countries rural residents are unexpectedly more satisfied with their lives than their economic and objective life situation would suggest (e.g. in China, Thailand, and in Western European, post-communist, Anglo-Saxon, and Latin American countries). Some researchers argue that cultural and social aspects, in addition to economic aspects, are better to explain urban-rural differences in life satisfaction. The author will extend this research by focusing on cultural factors in relation to Cultural World Regions. In addition, she will use newer data from the World Values Survey and the World Bank. The guiding questions are 1) how relevant are economic-materialistic aspects for life satisfaction? And 2) in how far are there differences between cultural world regions, such as East and Central Asia, Western and post-communist Europe, Latin America, Anglo-Saxon countries, and Arabic and Sub-Saharan Africa?