bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factores sociodemográficos-sanitarios sobre la decisión de interrupción del embarazo, Chile: un análisis de clases latentes
Authors: Angélica Saldías Fernández María , González-Santa Cruz Andrés , Martínez Órdenes Macarena , Parra-Giordano Denisse
Published: December 2024

Objetivo:

identificar las características sociodemográficas y/o sociosanitarias comunes de quienes solicitaron prestaciones para la interrupción voluntaria del embarazo (IVE) en Chile mediante un análisis de clases latentes, con el fin de examinar la relación entre estos patrones y la decisión de interrumpir el embarazo.

Métodos:

análisis de clases latentes a partir de una cohorte retrospectiva basada en registros anonimizados a nivel nacional. Gestantes que solicitaron las prestaciones contempladas en la Ley 21.030 de la red sanitaria pública en Chile, entre los años 2018 y 2022 ( N = 3789).

Resultados:

modelo de cinco clases latentes: C1 “Extranjeras con alta vulnerabilidad que ingresan por violación” (4.3 %), C2 “Chilenas con baja vulnerabilidad” (11.8 %), C3 “Extranjeras con alta vulnerabilidad que ingresan por inviabilidad fetal o riesgo de vida para la persona gestante” (13.3 %), C4 “Chilenas con vulnerabilidad media” (55.6 %) y C5 “Chilenas con alta vulnerabilidad” (15.1 %). Las gestantes pertenecientes a las C3 (OR = 0.91, IC 95 % [0.88, 0.95]) y C4 (OR = 0.87, IC 95 % [0.84, 0.90]) tienen menores probabilidades de interrupción en comparación con las que pertenecen a la C2. Las gestantes C3 (0.94 [IC 95 % = 0.88, 0.99]) son quienes presentan mayores probabilidades de solicitar IVE, seguidas por C2 (0.93 [IC 95 % = 0.90, 0.97]) y C5 (0.92 [IC 95 % = 0.89, 0.95]).

Conclusiones:

los perfiles sociodemográficos de las personas solicitantes de la IVE revisten de complejidad y presentan características heterogéneas. En Chile, los patrones distintivos identificados en las personas gestantes que solicitaron la IVE durante el periodo de estudio apuntan a vulnerabilidades sociales que pueden limitar los derechos sexuales y reproductivos de las personas gestantes. Las políticas públicas debieran poner foco en personas migrantes que solicitan prestaciones IVE.
Diagnostic performance of the Cobas MTB and Logix Smart MTB for diagnosing pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis: a cross-sectional study of diagnostic tests
Authors: Hueda-Zavaleta Miguel , Gomez de la Torre Juan Carlos , Minchón-Vizconde Diana , Barletta-Carrillo Claudia , Copaja-Corzo Cesar , Tapia-Sequeiros Gustavo , Flores Cinthya , Piscoche Cristian , Miranda Cecilia , Mendoza Ada , Benites-Zapata Vicente A.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Molecular tests have contributed to reducing the mortality rate through early and accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB). This is due to their low processing complexity and diagnostic accuracy superior to conventional methods.

Objective:

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of Cobas MTB and Logix Smart MTB compared to Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra for pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB).

Design:

A cross-sectional study of diagnostic tests was carried out in a clinical laboratory in Lima, Peru.

Methods:

All pulmonary and extrapulmonary samples from patients with presumptive TB who had been subjected to smear microscopy, Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra, Cobas MTB, Logix Smart MTB, and mycobacteria culture were included to determine their diagnostic performance.

Results:

A total of 175 samples were included, 102 (58.3%) of pulmonary origin and 73 (41.7%) of extrapulmonary origin. Among the total samples, 19 (10.9%) had positive cultures (all were pulmonary samples), 48 (27.4%) had positive Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra results, 45 (25.7%) had positive Cobas MTB results, and 36 (20.6%) had positive Logix Smart MTB results. The agreement between Cobas MTB and Logix Smart with the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra was 97.1% and 93.8%, respectively. Compared to Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra, the area under the curve/receiver operating characteristic and sensitivity of the Cobas MTB and Logix Smart methods were 0.95 and 91.7%, and 0.90 and 81.0%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Cobas MTB and Logix Smart presented adequate performance for diagnosing pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis comparable to the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra.
Sexual wellness clinic collaborative initiative with a large urban emergency department: sexual health outcomes and linkage to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis
Authors: Massey Ruby , Mason Joesph A. , Friedman Eleanor E. , Stanford Kimberly A. , Garcia Damaris , Montgomery Jackson , Schmitt Jessica , Hazra Aniruddha
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Despite escalating rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States (US), there has been progressive divestment of sexual health services leading to the reliance on emergency departments (EDs) for sexual healthcare, particularly among vulnerable populations. The Sexual Wellness Clinic (SWC), a novel care delivery model operating in collaboration with the ED, offers comprehensive sexual health services.

Objectives:

This study aims to analyze the demographics, STI positivity, and HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake among patients accessing the SWC.

Design:

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients attending the SWC between February 20, 2019, and September 30, 2022.

Methods:

Sociodemographic characteristics, STI testing results, and PrEP initiation data were collected from the electronic health record (EHR). Two multivariable logistic regression models were employed to assess associations between patient factors and STI positivity or PrEP initiation.

Results:

Among 651 individuals across 785 SWC visits, the majority were Black or African American (94.6%), 18–29 years of age (53.2%), and on Medicaid (65.8%). Of all visits, 27.3% resulted in a syphilis diagnosis, 16.1% tested positive for chlamydia test, and 15.0% tested positive for gonorrhea. Decreased STI positivity was associated with insertive vaginal sex (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.34, p = 0.0079) while using condoms most of the time use was associated with increased STI positivity (aOR: 2.68, p = 0.0038). Eighty SWC patients started PrEP on the same day as their visit, most of which were non-Hispanic Black (96.26%), assigned female at birth (53.75%), and on Medicaid or Medicare (68.75%). Factors associated with PrEP initiation at the SWC included a previous STI (aOR: 3.78, p < 0.001), oral sex (aOR: 2.33, p = 0.008), receptive anal sex (aOR: 3.55, p = 0.010), having a partner with HIV (aOR: 8.95, p = 0.019), and participation in transactional sex (aOR: 29.46, p = 0.029).

Conclusion:

Patients seen within the SWC were priority patient populations for sexual health services and PrEP linkage. The SWC was able to promote the initiation of same-day PrEP in Black cisgender women, a key population that continues to experience inequities in PrEP coverage. The SWC functions as a model for sexual healthcare delivery in populations with unmet sexual health needs.
HIV drug resistance following pre-exposure prophylaxis failure among key populations in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Ngoufack Jagni Semengue Ezechiel , Molimbou Evariste , Etame Naomi-Karell , Ka’e Christelle Aude , Ambe Collins Chenwi , Nka Alex Durand , Tueguem Pamela Patricia , Ngueko Aurelie Minelle Kengni , Mundo Rachel Audrey Nayang , Takou Désiré , Anoubissi Jean-De-Dieu , Akiy Zacheaus Zeh , Kob Ye Same David Anouar , Ngougo Duplextine Aimée , Billong Serges , Perno Carlo-Federico , Ndembi Nicaise , Fokam Joseph
Published: December 2024

Background:

Key populations (KP) are highly vulnerable to HIV acquisition and account for 70% of new infections worldwide. To optimize HIV prevention among KP, the World Health Organization recommends the combination of emtricitabine plus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). However, PrEP failure could be attributed to drug resistance mutations (DRMs) but this is unexplored in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Objectives:

We aim to conduct a systematic review that will provide evidence on the prevalence of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) following PrEP failure among KP in SSA.

Design:

This will be a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies conducted in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods and Analysis:

This systematic review will include randomized and non-randomized trials, cohorts, case controls, cross-sectional studies, and case reports evaluating the prevalence of HIVDR following PrEP failure among KP (i.e., gay men and men who have sex with men, female sex workers, transgenders, people who inject drugs, prisoners, and detainees) in SSA. Results will be stratified according to various KP, age groups (adolescents and adults), and geographic locations. Primary outcomes will be “the prevalence of PrEP failure among KP” and “the prevalence of HIVDR after PrEP failure” in SSA. Secondary outcomes would be “the prevalence of DRMs and drug susceptibility” and “the level of adherence to PrEP.” A random-effects model will be used to calculate pooled prevalence if data permit and we will explore potential sources of heterogeneity.

Discussion:

Our findings will provide estimates of HIVDR following PrEP failure among KP in SSA. In addition, determinants of PrEP failure and driving factors of the emergence of DRMs will also be investigated. Evidence will help in selecting effective antiretrovirals for use in PrEP among KP in SSA.

Registration:

PROSPERO: CRD42023463862.
Sealing socket with custom healing abutment in case of immediate posterior implant placement: A case report
Authors: Neji Ghada , Tlili Mohamed , Selmi Raki , Mlouka Mootaz , Khalfi Mohamed Salah , Ben Amor Faten
Published: December 2024

Replacing a hopeless molar with a dental implant is one of the most common treatment modalities in implant dentistry. However, immediate implant post-extraction in the posterior region requires managing the bone gap and ensuring primary closure of the socket. To address this anatomical consideration, several authors have proposed using a custom abutment to seal the socket after immediate implant placement, maintain soft tissue contour, and stabilize the surrounding tissues. For example, the “Sealing Socket Abutment” (SSA) enhances the anatomical emergence profile, which facilitates the biological, prosthetic, and aesthetic integration of the future supra-implant prosthesis. A 32-year-old female patient in good general health consulted the Outpatient and Implantology Department of the dental clinic in Monastir, Tunisia, for the extraction of the root tip of the left first mandibular molar (tooth number 36) and subsequent implant rehabilitation. The patient’s medical history was unremarkable, with no known allergies, or chronic conditions. Follow-up appointments were scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure successful integration of the implant. The aim of this paper is to present, through this clinical case report, the SSA abutment fabrication protocol using the direct technique and to discuss the advantages and limitations of this technique.
A Cognitive Construal of the Concessive Conditional Construction “Just Because X Doesn’t Mean Y”: A Corpus-Based Study
Authors: Zhang Songsong , Hu Jinyang , Sun Xueyu
Published: December 2024

This study takes the English concessive conditional construction “ Just Because X Doesn’t Mean Y” (JBX-DMY) as its object, extracts instances from the Corpus of Contemporary American English (COCA), applies Simple Collostructional Analysis to the representative collexemes, and investigates the experiential and conceptual characteristics of this construction from the perspective of cognitive construal in order to explain the source and mechanism of polysemy. Dividing JBX-DMY into two parts, this study analyzes ways of construal, vantage points and viewing arrangement under the dimension of cognitive construal.
Moving Knowledge into Action Through Communities of Practice: Multiple Case Studies of Successful System Change to Improve the Health of Older Adults
Authors: Conklin James , Kothari Anita , Stolee Paul , Chambers Larry , LeClair Ken
Published: December 2024

This monograph reports the results of a three-year multiple case study of nine knowledge-to-action (KTA) initiatives mobilized in communities of practice (C0Ps) operating in Ontario's seniors' health system. A multiple case study design was used to conduct nine case studies through a combination of case study and ethnographic methods. Deductive analytical methods were used to answer two broad research questions about the KTA processes mobilized through the CoPs, and about the roles played by CoP members and other stakeholders. Inductive analytical methods were used to reveal the patterns of interaction characteristic of the CoPs. These CoPs acted as flexible and temporary social forms with specific characteristics and processes allowing them to integrate explicit and tacit knowledge to resolve the unique contextual challenges of health practices. Our findings suggest that these CoPs often developed a double-loop learning process that is well suited to responding to adaptive challenges and wicked problems. Conclusions from this qualitative study are not generalizable to all situations and contexts. Findings suggest that the concept of "knowledge-to-action" be supplemented by a concept of "action-to-knowledge" that recognizes that important initiatives are often incubated in the action of health care delivery when dedicated professionals come together to tackle intractable issues. This is the first multiple case study of CoPs in the Canadian health system. The study shows that CoPs can act as the junction for the rational epistemology of science and the narrative epistemology of practice.
Measuring Emotional Wellbeing and Emotional Contagion Through Sentiments and Emotions Evoked by Social Media for COVID-19
Authors: Shankar Shardul , Tewari Vijayshri , Shankar Shashwat
Published: December 2024

Social Media acts as a primary source of information, opinion, and news source for millions of individuals every day for over a decade. This has never been as apparent as the global pandemic of COVID-19, wherein a span of more than just a year, the evolution of emotions amongst the users of social media has never been so swift and fickle. This study uses Reddit post-extraction and classifies 60,370 posts between the time frame of February 11th, 2020 to January 26th, 2021 from the two major subreddits of r/COVID and r/COVID19. With the help of the Lexicon Approach, the posts are classified into positive, negative, and neutral sentiment polarities, and then distributive frequencies and valence scores are measured for measuring emotional contagion. The findings reveal that there is a high presence of negative sentiments in the posts, and the increase in sentimental extremities occurred in three time-frames, the initial pandemic stage; the implementation of massive lockdowns stage; and the approval and administration of vaccines stage. It also shows that there is a linear relationship between the valence of exposed stimuli and their response. Emotional contagion is present in both positive as well as negative posts. The important implications can be drawn for the emotional wellbeing, perspective, and contagion of the users of Reddit.
Group Interpersonal Psychotherapy in Patients with Treatment Resistant Depression: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Perez Mattos Maria Isabel , Knauth Daniela , Viduani Anna , Stuart Scott , Mosqueiro Bruno Paz , Caldieraro Marco Antonio , de Souza Laura Wolf , Chini Ariane Gusmão , Nery Rachel Santos , Lopes Manoella Pestana , Fleck Marcelo P.
Published: December 2024

Depressive disorders are a worldwide leading cause of health-related burden, and a subgroup of depression patients fail to respond to available psychopharmacological treatments, a condition called Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD). While evidence suggests that both traditional and group (IPT-G) Interpersonal Psychotherapy interventions are efficient treatments for depression, few studies have evaluated the effect of IPT on TRD. Qualitatively analyze an IPT-G intervention conducted with TRD patients using a deductive, theory informed approach, to explore how TDR patients understand, contextualize and apply IPT’s problem-areas throughout the course of the treatment. 10 IPT-G sessions were analyzed using Framework Analysis. Sessions were video recorded and transcribed verbatim, and participants’ accounts were coded with predetermined, conceptually derived codes that were based on the three main problem areas identified in IPT. Following IPT’s main problem areas, three themes were generated: “Mechanisms of change—Improving communication”; “Acceptance of loss”; and “Finding new roles—depression, role transition, and reclaiming life conditions.” Our analysis suggests that patients with TRD can benefit from IPT-G. Depression is seen as a chronic condition that deeply affects the lives of patients, and IPT-G was seen as a way of promoting change and regaining control. However, we identified that patients to whom IPT-G did not achieve the same effect in terms of symptom reduction have greater difficulty in acquiring and generalizing new interpersonal skills, and often were immersed in severe family or marital interpersonal disputes.
Strategies to Overcome Challenges and Seize Opportunities for Born Global SMEs: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Nirmala Ade Ria , Sukoco Badri Munir , Ekowati Dian , Nadia Fiona Niska Dinda , Marjan Yakuttinah , Hasanah Uswatun
Published: December 2024

Born Global small and medium enterprises (SMEs) must survive, grow, and develop on the international market. Therefore, the appropriate strategy is needed to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. This paper presents an up-to-date review of this subject, using the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method with PRISMA diagrams to analyze papers published under the theme of Born Global SMEs on both the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus, totaling 549 and 1,365 papers, respectively. Approximately 1,914 papers were extracted from these databases, of which 57 met the review selection criteria, thus included in the review. The review found that SME strategies generally emphasize adaption, strengthening innovation, and technology to deal with the global market. In addition, one of the key findings in this review is that founders and leaders are key in the internationalization of SMEs into Born Global. Born Global SMEs are grounded in and take advantage of the international experiences of their founders or leaders to form global networks in overcoming limited resources and reach market niches as the main strategies in addition to adaptive, innovation, and technology strategies. The question of what internationalization framework is most appropriate for describing and predicting the growth, development, and even survival of Born Global SMEs has not been comprehensively studied. This study offers to learn the strategy of Born Global SMEs in the rationalization to face challenges or obstacles and seize opportunities that are essential.
High-Speed Rail Opening, Economic Agglomeration, and Urban Innovation
Authors: Sun Guangzhao , Gao Biao , Zhang Liguo
Published: December 2024

The development of HSR (HSR) promotes the flow of economy and population, which can, to some extent, impact the innovation level of cities connected by it. This paper, based on city data from 276 prefecture-level cities and above from 2003 to 2016, employs the DID method and a mediation effect model to empirically analyze the relationship between the opening of HSR, economic agglomeration, and the level of urban innovation. The study finds that the introduction of HSR not only elevates the innovation level of connected cities but also manifests a mediation effect of economic agglomeration. Further research reveals that this mediation effect varies regionally and by city hierarchy. Specifically, in eastern regions, the mediation effect of HSR promoting urban innovation through economic agglomeration is less pronounced than in western regions. For central cities, the mediation effect is represented through economic density, while for non-central cities, it manifests through economic density, population density, and industrial density. Robustness checks further validate these findings, reaffirming the conclusions of this paper. Thus, the study’s findings offer policy insights, suggesting that local governments can leverage the economic agglomeration advantages brought by HSR and adopt differentiated and rational policy measures to promote high-quality urban development.
Delivery Service and Omni-channel Online and Offline in Retailing During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Liao Shu-Hsien , Widowati Retno , My Linh Pham Nguyen
Published: December 2024

Under the Covid-19 pandemic, Vietnam has not only seen in a clear shift from traditional trade to modern trade channels, but also there has been a shift from traditional trade to omni-channel online and offline. This leads to investigate several questions regarding retailing in Vietnam during the Covid-19 pandemic. What omni-channel process of delivery service is provided by operators in Vietnam? What are the profiles of the delivery service for omni-channel consumers in Vietnam? What are different consumer segment delivery service preferences in omni-channel and purchasing modes for online and offline? What profiles/patterns/rules should retail operators consider making their omni-channel delivery service model more competitive for online and offline in retailing? This study investigates Vietnamese consumer behaviors with delivery services and omni-channel online and offline ( N = 2,204). Data mining analytics, including clustering analysis and association rules, reveal meaningful clusters/patterns/rules for investigating delivery service and omni-channel online and offline development.
Identification of Affective- and Social-Reinforcement Functions of Driven Exercise: Evidence From Three Samples
Authors: Kolar David R. , Haynos Ann F. , Wang Shirley B. , Lask Theresa , Murray Stuart B. , Voderholzer Ulrich , Gorrell Sasha
Published: December 2024

Driven exercise is a transdiagnostic maladaptive behavior, especially common in eating disorders (EDs); however, its maintenance mechanisms remain poorly understood. To address this gap, we examined the applicability of previously empirically derived and validated reinforcement-function models in explaining driven-exercise maintenance in studies varying across developmental stages and clinical presentations (Study 1: N = 279 adolescents/adults oversampled for EDs; Study 2: N = 118 adolescent/adult inpatients with severe EDs; Study 3: N = 52 adults oversampled for athletes and/or EDs). Results supported the utility of a four-function model (automatic positive reinforcement [APR]/automatic negative reinforcement [ANR; increase positive/decrease negative affect], social positive reinforcement [SPR]/social negative reinforcement [SNR; engage in/avoid interpersonal situations]) in explaining driven exercise. APR was most frequently endorsed, followed by ANR, SNR, and SPR in all studies. APR correlated with last-month driven-exercise episodes across studies; associations between other functions and ED psychopathology varied between studies. Furthermore, results suggested a separate control function could be considered in samples with more severe EDs.
Strengths-Based Approaches to Investigating Early Math Development in Family and Community Context: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: DePascale Mary , Bustamante Andres S. , Dearing Eric
Published: December 2024

Research and practice that builds on family strengths is uniquely positioned to support children’s math learning in ecologically valid and culturally meaningful ways. Yet, there is little specificity as to what it means to take a strengths-based approach in early math research. We propose a conceptual framework for studying early math from a strengths perspective, as an extension of sociocultural theory and family funds of knowledge. We propose four construct domains critical to the study of strengths (family knowledge/skills, family routines, family interests, community knowledge) and two methodological considerations (participatory design, adaptability of resources). To demonstrate the framework as a tool for organizing cumulative knowledge, we classify exemplar strengths-based studies of early math (n = 11) according to the construct domains and methodology considerations. Our aims are to improve the specificity with which strengths-based perspectives in early math are operationalized and to provide a framework for evaluating literature and guiding future studies.
The Influence and Issues of Christian Human Rights in Japan
Authors: Morishima Yutaka
Published: December 2024

This essay examines Christianity’s influence on Japan’s human rights legislation, particularly its impact on the Constitution and related discourse. First, it highlights the Puritan movement’s role in codifying human rights ideals. Then, it provides evidence of Christianity’s latent influence on the formation of Japan’s Constitution. Lastly, it explores how the inability to fully accept the right to resist under Japan’s imperial system has hindered the indigenization of human rights thought. By addressing these issues, the essay seeks to clarify Christianity’s role in shaping both historical and contemporary human rights in Japan.
A Commentary on Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Compromised DNA Repair in Neurodegeneration: The Emerging Role of FUS in ALS
Authors: Kodavati Manohar , Hegde Muralidhar L
Published: December 2024

Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a pivotal role in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. Recent discoveries have highlighted the involvement of DNA damage and repair processes, particularly mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage, in these conditions. This commentary reflects on our recent findings, demonstrating the RNA/DNA binding protein fused in sarcoma (FUS)’s crucial role in maintaining mtDNA integrity through interactions with mitochondrial DNA ligase IIIα (mtLig3). Our studies provide direct evidence of increased mtDNA damage in ALS-linked FUS mutant cells, emphasizing the potential of targeting DNA repair pathways to mitigate neurodegeneration. Furthermore, the restoration of mitochondrial function through targeted expression of human DNA ligase 1 (Lig1) in FUS mutant models showcases the therapeutic promise of DNA repair mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases. These insights offer new molecular understanding and open up future avenues for therapeutic interventions, particularly in FUS-associated ALS and related disorders.
Intestinal parasitic infections among individuals visiting Dembiya Primary Hospital, Central Gondar, Ethiopia: cross-sectional study
Authors: Yeshiwas Melaku , Yohannes Tilahun
Published: December 2024

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) pose a significant public health challenge globally, particularly in developing regions. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of IPIs among individuals visiting Dembiya Primary Hospital in Central Gondar, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2023 involving 404 participants selected through simple random sampling. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. The overall IPI prevalence was substantial at 56.4%. Six parasite species were identified, with Entamoeba histolytica being the most prevalent. Age, family role, footwear use, water contact, water source, vegetable consumption habits, and latrine use emerged as significant risk factors (p < 0.05). Notably, mothers were 16 times more likely to be infected compared to other family members (AOR = 16.372, 95% CI 4.037–66.392, p < 0.001), while individuals who never wore shoes were 31 times more likely to be infected than those who always wore shoes (AOR = 31.406, 95% CI 4.148–237.789, p < 0.001). Similarly, consuming unwashed vegetables increased infection risk by 28 times (AOR = 28.374, 95% CI 11.734–68.613, p < 0.001). These findings underscore the high burden of IPIs in the study area. To mitigate the problem, public awareness campaigns emphasizing personal and environmental hygiene, safe water consumption, and the dangers of consuming unwashed vegetables and inadequate footwear are recommended.
The chemical composition and pharmacological activities of Morinda citrifolia
Authors: Zhou Shiyang , Huang Gangliang
Published: December 2024

Morinda citrifolia has been widely used by Polynesians as a folk medicine for more than 2000 years. It was reported that the main chemical components of Morinda citrifolia include nthraquinones, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides, steroids, fatty acids and their esters, etc., it has a wide range of therapeutic properties, including anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, protective cardiovascular and anti-tumor effects. In order to reveal the nutritional and medicinal value of Morinda citrifolia and provide reference for further rational development and comprehensive utilization of Morinda citrifolia resources, the chemical composition, pharmacological activity and mechanism of Morinda citrifolia were reviewed in this review.
2′-O-Galloylhyperin Prevents Tissue Remodeling in Thyroid Eye Disease: Prospects as a Thyrotropin Receptor Antagonist
Authors: Guo Yan , Liu Boyuan , Liang Weiwei , Cheng Yanglei , Li Hai , Guan Hongyu , Xiao Haipeng , Li Yanbing
Published: December 2024

Context

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is a challenging condition owing to relentless orbital tissue remodeling, with thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) in orbital fibroblasts (OFs) serving as a promising therapeutic target.

Objective

This study seeks to discover potential TSHR inhibitors among US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs and evaluate their effects on TED-OFs.

Methods

Adipose tissues were sourced from the patients with or without TED. Isolated OFs were cultivated in proliferation medium or stimulated for adipogenic/fibrotic differentiation in 2-dimensional/3-dimenstional models, treated with 2′-O-galloylhyperin (2′-O-GH) (0, 5, 20, and 50 μM). Using structure-based virtual screening (SBVS), potential TSHR antagonists were identified. Cellular proliferation was analyzed by 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation, flow cytometry, and spheroid size. Adipogenesis was determined by Oil Red O staining, Western blot, and immunofluorescence (IF). Fibrosis was assessed using wound–healing assays, Western blot and IF. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), hyaluronan (HA), and cytokine were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Herein, the FDA-approved drug 2′-O-GH dose-dependently decreased cAMP production and the subsequent cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation stimulated by a TSHR-stimulating monoclonal autoantibody M22, which was reversed by a consistently activated mutation of TSHR (L629F). As expected, 2′-O-GH attenuated lipid accumulation in TED-OFs, along with downregulation of key adipogenic markers, and 2′-O-GH ameliorated HA production during adipogenesis. Notably, 2′-O-GH dampened wound closure and fibrotic differentiation of TED-OF stimulated by transforming growth factor beta 1. Correspondingly, proliferation of TED-OFs was halted by 2′-O-GH.

Conclusion

2′-O-GH is promising for prevention of tissue remodeling of TED by exerting inhibitory effects on proliferation, differentiation, and HA deposition by inhibiting TSHR activation, implying its potential therapeutic value for TED.
Safety and Efficacy of Moderate-dose Denosumab in Fibrous Dysplasia: Observational Results From a Phase 2 Clinical Trial
Authors: Szymczuk Vivian , Elbashir Ibrahim I , Ahmed Ramzy , de Castro Luis F , Milligan Kelly , Li Xiaobai , Saboury Babak , Boyce Alison M
Published: December 2024

Context

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a rare skeletal mosaic disease associated with fractures and disability. A phase 2 trial of the RANKL inhibitor denosumab (NCT03571191) reported profound reductions in lesion activity and increased lesional mineralization after 6 months of high-dose treatment. Denosumab was well tolerated; however, discontinuation was associated with severe hypercalcemia.

Objective

Investigate the safety and efficacy of moderate-dose denosumab (120 mg/3 months) compared to the standard high-dose regimen.

Setting

Clinical research center.

Patients

Adults with FD.

Interventions

Eight adults received high-dose denosumab for 6 months (120 mg/month with loading doses on weeks 2 and 3) followed by an 8-month posttreatment observation. The protocol was amended to restart moderate-dose denosumab (120 mg/3 months) if clinically indicated.

Main Outcome Measures

Bone turnover markers, 18F-sodium fluoride positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-NaF PET/CT), lesion biopsies.

Results

In 6 subjects who restarted moderate-dose treatment, changes in serum markers at the initial and final dose were comparable (procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide −82% and −91%, C-terminal telopeptide −86% and −86% for moderate- and high-dose, respectively). There was no difference in 18F-NaF PET/CT lesional activity or absolute change in avid lesion volume between moderate- and high-dose regimens. Sequential tissue histological analyses in 1 subject demonstrated progressive lesional mineralization and reduced cellularity with moderate-dose treatment. Bone turnover markers on moderate-dose treatment showed a sustained decline in 4 subjects; however, 2 severely affected subjects developed rebound between doses, with recurrent hypercalcemia in 1 subject.

Conclusion

Moderate-dose denosumab may provide clinical benefits comparable to the high-dose regimen in adults with FD while potentially lowering associated risks. However, discrepancies in the duration of efficacy are an important potential safety concern.
Changes in Thyroid Function and Autoimmunity in Older Individuals: Longitudinal Analysis of the Whickham Cohort
Authors: Razvi Salman S , Wild Helen , Ingoe Lorna , Vernazza Jonathan , Vanderpump Mark , Pearce Simon H S , Ludgate Marian
Published: December 2024

Background

Longitudinal studies of thyroid function have demonstrated differing results. It remains unclear whether changes in thyroid function affect the diagnosis of subclinical thyroid dysfunction with aging.

Methods

Survivors of the Whickham cohort study were evaluated on 2 occasions between the years 2008 and 2012 and 2016 and 2019. Serum TSH, free T4 (FT4), free T3 (FT3), and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) were measured on both occasions using the same assay under similar conditions. Individuals with known thyroid disease or on medications affecting thyroid function were excluded. Comorbidities were noted, functional mobility was assessed by the timed up-and-go test, and muscle function was evaluated by the hand grip strength test.

Results

In 204 individuals (mean age 77.0 [±6.6] years, 114 [56%] female), followed over a median (interquartile range) of 7.8 (7.3-8.2) years, serum TSH increased by 0.29 mU/L (12.4%), FT3 and TPOAb reduced by 0.1 pmol/L (−2.1%) and 0.6 U/L (−11.2%), and there were no significant changes in FT4 levels. The calculated upper limit of serum TSH increased over the follow-up period from 4.74 mU/L to 6.28 mU/L. The relationship between serum TSH and FT4 at both time points was not significantly different. Utilizing standard laboratory reference ranges, the prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism increased from 3.5% at baseline to 9.0% at follow-up. However, adopting a visit-specific TSH reference range reduced the prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism at both time points to 2.0%.

Discussion

Thyroid function demonstrates subtle but significant changes with age. Utilizing standard reference ranges tends to increase the diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism in older euthyroid individuals. Our data suggest that adopting age-appropriate TSH reference ranges may reduce the risk of diagnosing and (potentially unnecessarily) treating subclinical hypothyroidism.
Follow-Up Estradiol Levels Based on Regimen Formulation With Guideline-Concordant Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy
Authors: Carlson Scott M , Dominguez Courtney , Jeevananthan Athavi , Crowley Matthew J
Published: December 2024

Context

Endocrine Society guidelines for dosing of feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) have remained essentially unchanged since 2009. The Endocrine Society recommends periodic monitoring of serum estradiol levels, with the goal of maintaining levels in the premenopausal cisgender female range (100-200 pg/mL). However, it is not clear whether guideline-concordant dosing consistently produces guideline-recommended levels across common estradiol formulation types (oral pills, parenteral injections, transdermal patches).

Objective

All transgender and nonbinary patients receiving estradiol-based GAHT between October 2015 and March 2023 were reviewed at a single center, with the goal of determining the frequency with which guideline-concordant dosing with different estradiol formulations led to guideline-recommended estradiol levels.

Methods

Demographics, GAHT regimen, and estradiol levels were obtained via chart review, and data were analyzed descriptively.

Results

The analytic population included n = 35 individuals, including n = 9 prescribed oral estradiol pills, n = 11 prescribed parenteral injections, and n = 15 prescribed transdermal patches. With guideline-concordant doses of oral estradiol (mean 2.8 mg daily), the mean follow-up level was 168 pg/mL; 32% of follow-up levels were subtherapeutic and 14% were supratherapeutic. With guideline-concordant doses of parenteral estradiol (mean 5.8 mg weekly), the mean midpoint follow-up level was 342 pg/mL; 91% of midpoint follow-up levels were supratherapeutic. With guideline-concordant doses of transdermal estradiol (mean 0.09 mg/day), the mean follow-up level was 81.5 pg/mL; 70% of follow-up levels were subtherapeutic.

Conclusion

Supratherapeutic follow-up estradiol levels were common with guideline-concordant parenteral estradiol doses, as were subtherapeutic follow-up levels with guideline-concordant transdermal doses. These findings may suggest the need for revision of guideline-recommended estradiol doses for these formulations.
The evolution and future of social engineering: exploiting psychological vulnerabilities in the digital age
Authors: Márton Zoltán , Rajnai Zoltán
Published: December 2024

The study presents the history, evolution, and current threats of social engineering, with a focus on exploiting human psychological vulnerabilities. It discusses both early and modern techniques, such as spear phishing, pretexting, and deepfake manipulation, which are becoming even more targeted with the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies. The study also addresses defense strategies, emphasizing the importance of education, technological safeguards, and strict organizational protocols, while highlighting the future risks of social engineering and the need for continuous protective measures.
The care certificate: privacy and dignity
Authors: Ellis Peter
Published: December 2024

This article provides an overview of what healthcare assistants need to understand about communication, the sixth standard of the care certificate.
For the long haul
Authors: Vollans Caroline
Published: December 2024

What the Thrive at Five project is doing in deprived areas of Stoke-on-Trent and elsewhere to improve outcomes for children. By Caroline Vollans
We've explored…: boats
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: December 2024

The family sailing experience of a child at one nursery in Merseyside inspired a whole-setting trip on a river ferry to Liverpool. By Annette Rawstrone
Embrace the fun
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: December 2024

What are settings doing to get staff and families in the festive mood? Karen Hart reports
First-class food
Authors: Weinstein Nicole
Published: December 2024

Is a nutrient-rich school lunch and a whole-school approach to food education enough to curb the post-lunchtime dip in behaviour and learning? Nicole Weinstein speaks to primary schools working with Chefs in Schools to find out
market view: FIRST TIME
Authors: Turner Leah
Published: December 2024

Leah Turner, co-founder of Owen Froebel, which offers day nursery brokerage, valuations and sales, on first-time buyers and funding difficulties.
DOĞUMLA İLGİLİ HALK İNANIŞLARI VE UYGULAMALARI ÜZERİNE MİTİK-SEMBOLİK BİR OKUMA: ÇANKIRI ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: Kasımoğlu Seval
Published: December 2024

Halk inanışlarının en önemli özelliği kolektif bilinçdışının ürünü olmalarıdır. Nesilden nesile aktarılarak varlığını devam ettiren halk inanışları, genellikle kişilerin korkularıyla, umutsuzluklarıyla ya da güvenleri ve beklentileriyle şekillenmektedir. Toplumun bir bütün olarak değerlendirilmesinde çok önemli bir yeri olan halk inanışları sosyal, kültürel, psikolojik, mitik ve hatta siyasi pek çok bağlamda incelenebilir. Doğum, evlilik ve ölüm geçiş dönemleri olarak adlandırılmaktadır. Geçiş dönemleri benzer şekilde gerçekleşse de toplumdan topluma değişen geleneklere sahiptir. Bu gelenekleri toplumun kolektif bilinçdışı şekillendirmektedir.
Doğumla ilgili geleneklerle ilgili pek çok pratik ve inanış toplumun değer yargılarıyla bir bütündür. Türk kültüründe soyu devam ettirme önemli bir kabuldür. Bu çerçevede doğumla ilgili inanışlar ve pratikler konusunda hassas davranılmaktadır. Doğumla ilgili ritüellerin ve inanışların temel unsurları sembollerdir. Semboller vasıtasıyla bir ritüel ve inanış sonraki nesillere aktarılabilir. Doğum ritüellerinin temelinde yer alan bu semboller mitik verilerle yüklüdür. Bu makalede Çankırı’dan derlenen doğumla ilgili inanışlar ve uygulamalar mitik sembolik bir perspektifte incelenmeye çalışılmıştır. Böylece ilgili uygulama ve inanışların toplum içerisindeki yeri ve önemine ışık tutulmaya çalışılmıştır.
Queen Lili'uokalani as Anti-Imperialist Curator: Mount Vernon and the Archive of Washington Place
Authors: McGunigal Lisa
Published: December 2024

Abstract: In 1887 and 1897, Queen Lili'uokalani of Hawai'i twice visited the first house museum in the United States—George Washington's Mount Vernon, opened in 1860 by the first US historic preservation organization, the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association (MVLA). During those visits, Lili'uokalani was subjected to vitriolic attacks by the American press, and from this context she appointed her mansion to promote Hawaiian royalty. I argue that Lili'uokalani positioned her final residence in Honolulu as a palace-in-exile, earlier named "Washington Place" for its architectural similarity to Mount Vernon, as a rebuttal to the illegitimate occupation of the United States. She curated artifacts to counter the increasing erasure of Hawaiian culture by the US government. By addressing a rich range of archival materials, this essay argues that Lili'uokalani was deeply influenced by the MVLA's domestic strategy for preserving and creating history, or histories, but from an anti-US vantage to celebrate Hawaiian sovereignty.
Ambivalent Citizenship in Winnemucca and Twain: Exclusion after the Fourteenth Amendment
Authors: Sy Lloyd Alimboyao
Published: December 2024

Abstract: This essay investigates literary interrogations of the term "citizen" in the postbellum United States by looking at Sarah Winnemucca's Life Among the Piutes and Mark Twain's Life on the Mississippi . The books, both 1883 memoirs of the West, present different cultural skepticisms towards American claims of citizenship, constitutionally formalized in the Fourteenth Amendment. Winnemucca displays ambivalence towards citizenship because of its unstable inclusion of her Indigenous brethren, concurrently displaying a Native martial disposition (while always mentioning the failures of white citizens) to suggest that Native people might be more fit for citizenship than the Anglo settlers. Twain presents a similar ambivalence towards the category, satirically painting American citizens as unsophisticated exemplars of the Gilded Age. The essay shows how two authors publishing nearly simultaneously articulated their critiques of the nation around the same politically charged category, whose ambiguity and importance to determining belonging made it ripe for literary treatments.
The Truth Will Set You Free: Erle Stanley Gardner and the Innocence Plot
Authors: Allan Angela S.
Published: December 2024

Abstract: This essay examines how literature shaped popular ideas about the criminal justice system over the course of the twentieth century by considering Erle Stanley Gardner's bestselling Perry Mason series, published between 1933 and 1973. Despite their formulaic nature, the novels offer valuable insight about the inconsistencies of the courts in three distinct historical eras: public skepticism regarding the legal profession in the 1930s, the championing of the justice system as key to a democratic society in the 1940s and 50s, and the concerns over due process in the 1960s. Across these periods, Gardner's fiction advocated to a mass market readership for faith in justice, despite the series's fundamental premise that an unjust state was a constant threat to innocent civilians.
Poe's Prehistoric Fiction and Pre/Post-Humanity: Speculation via "Silence"
Authors: Kobayashi Masaomi
Published: December 2024

Abstract: The word "prehistoric" came into general use in the 1860s, and it was not until around the turn of the twentieth century that saw the emergence of prehistoric fiction in English. In his 1838 tale, "Silence," however, Edgar Allan Poe had presented a form of prehistoric narrative by creating a fictional setting of West Central Africa. While casting new light on prehistoric fiction by discovering the tale's unexplored potential, this study finds itself associated with philosophy with special reference to the French-Continental philosophers Jacques Derrida and Quentin Meillassoux. Their deconstructive/speculative philosophies serve to reveal what has been unexplored in "Silence," hence allowing an understanding of how widely open it is to what belongs outside of history and humanity. An attempt is ultimately made to demonstrate that the tale's potentiality lies in its capacity to generate fresh perspectives not only on prehistory but also on pre-humanity and even on post-humanity.
Playing with Statues: Race, Space, Performance, and the Arab American National Museum
Authors: Majid Asif
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT: How does the Arab American National Museum, the United States’s only museum dedicated to Arab American experiences, face up to the challenges of negotiating and resisting white supremacy culture? Based on a year-long ethnographic study of the museum, this essay contends that the Arab American National Museum is a multilayered site that plays with and subverts white supremacy culture, specifically through performing a politics of oppositionality in contrast to the now-removed statue of Orville Hubbard: Dearborn, Michigan’s racist, longest-serving, former mayor. In so doing, the museum embodies the position of the trickster relative to the still-existing plinth and the now-phantom statue, encountering and playing with what the statue gestured toward: fulfillment of Hubbard’s racist, white supremacist, segregationist promises to and for the city of Dearborn. In playing with this historical encounter in the present, the museum gestures toward an alternate future, performing a progressive politics of the possible.