bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of youth internalizing symptoms: Cross-cultural comparisons between Taiwanese and U.S. mothers
Authors: Chen Yen-Ling , Freeman Andrew J. , Huang Kuan-Ju , Kraus Shane W.
Published: November 2024

This study was designed to examine how cultural values affected mothers’ perceptions of internalizing symptoms in youth, comparing Taiwanese and U.S. samples. We hypothesized that mothers’ self-reported East Asian cultural values (e.g., conformity, emotional self-control, face culture) would mediate the relationship between their country of residence and perceptions of youth's depressed mood and anhedonia. Participants were 310 mothers from the United States and 294 mothers from Taiwan. All participants responded to questions regarding their adherence to specific East Asian cultural values. Four brief vignettes about a male adolescent experiencing internalizing symptoms were presented to all participants. After reading each vignette, participants rated their perceptions of the adolescent's symptoms. Results from a series of multilevel structural equation models indicated that Taiwan mothers reported more East Asian cultural values (conformity, emotional self-control, face culture) compared to U.S. mothers, which in turn led to rating youth internalizing problems as less acceptable, more impairing, and more problematic to the family, and feeling less proud and more ashamed of the youth. There was also an inconsistent mediation effect of East Asian cultural values on the relationship between country and rating of anhedonia. The mediation pathway was non-significant for the rating of depressed mood. In conclusion, to improve cultural understanding, researchers and clinicians should consider the driving force of the observed between-group differences to ensure appropriate conceptual frameworks in a cross-cultural context. Cross-cultural differences in ratings of youth symptoms highlight the importance of a culturally sensitive approach to assessing symptoms and functional impairment in different cultural groups.
Stim culture: Outlining anime's appeal to the autistic community
Authors: Rose Megan Catherine , Galbraith Patrick W. , Thomas-Parr Georgia
Published: November 2024

This article explores how anime contributes to the creation of a culture that attracts autistic individuals and supports their lives. We identify three aspects that may explain why it becomes a special interest that is both deeply personal and widely shared: visual tactility, or animation stimming; layers, or moving through estranged worlds; and unmasking, or emerging neurocultures and languages. Tentatively presenting anime as ‘stim culture,’ we uncover new directions in autism and fan culture research.
Evaluation of Antiurolithiatic Effects of Moringa oleifera Lam. Leaves Extract: In-vitro, in-silico and in-vivo Approaches
Authors: Ali Hina , Jabeen Qaiser , Jamshed Ayesha , Ejaz Syeda Abida , Qadeer Maria , Anwaar Mariya , Rasheed Hafiz Muhammad Farhan
Published: November 2024

Objective: Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae), has traditionally been used for various renal diseases including urolithiasis. Considering the therapeutic and nutritional values, the present study was designed to investigate the antiurolithiatic potential of M. oleifera leaves through in-vitro, in-silico and in-vivo approaches. Methods: Methanolic aqueous extract of M. oleifera. leaves (MoL.Cr) was prepared and screened for phytoconstituents through FTIR and HPLC analysis, while antioxidant potential was determined by DPPH assay. Crystal nucleation, aggregation and growth assays were carried out to ascertain the in-vitro inhibitory effects of MoL.Cr. Molecular docking was performed to analyze the interactions between phytoconstituents and targeted proteins (Glycolate oxidase, Albumin and Tamm-Horsfall). Whereas, ethylene glycol-induced urolithiasis model (1% ammonium chloride +0.75% ethylene glycol) was used for in-vivo study. Presence of alkaloids, phenols, glycosides and flavonoids was confirmed by FTIR and HPLC analysis. Results: MoL.Cr significantly inhibited the CaOx crystal nucleation, aggregation as well as growth and normalized urinary and serum parameters. Histological studies showed that MoL.Cr significantly restored hyperoxaluria-induced irregular epithelial lining, interstitial inflammation and dilated proximal tubules. Conclusions: Thus, M. oleifera demonstrated marked stone inhibiting potential which can be due to its antioxidant, lowering of urinary concentration of stone forming constituents and anti-crystallization effects.
What’s new in cardiac amyloidosis? Pharmacological treatment, physical activity, and care of patients with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Zaidel Ezequiel J. , Song Sol C. , Sterba Juan J. , Piccinato Agustina , Ramos María Candelaria , Cacia Silvina L.
Published: November 2024

Awareness, proper diagnosis and treatment of cardiac amyloidosis have increased, but there are still several unmet needs that have to be addressed for the optimal care of the disease. In this comprehensive review, we describe current and future treatments for both hereditary and wild-type TTR cardiac amyloidosis and also review lifestyle, including current challenges and opportunities for specific dietary concerns and exercise sports for these patients.
Diabetes Device Satisfaction Among Adolescents Living With Type 1 Diabetes and Their Parents
Authors: Wong Jessie J. , Alamarie Selma A. , Hanes Sarah J. , Flores Haley , Ngo Jessica , Schneider-Utaka Aika K. , Hood Korey K.
Published: November 2024

Background:

Diabetes technologies are valuable tools to reduce burden and enhance glycemic control, especially during adolescence. The current study sought to understand the factors associated with parent and adolescent diabetes device satisfaction.

Methods:

This study used cross-sectional data from 175 adolescents living with type 1 diabetes and 176 parents. Adolescent ages ranged from 12 to 19 (Mage=14.7, SD=1.89) and were balanced by gender (48% male). Kendall’s W examined concordance between parent and adolescent satisfaction and bivariate correlations and paired t-tests identified correlates of satisfaction.

Results:

There was low concordance (Kendall’s W = 0.13) between parent and adolescent device satisfaction. Automated insulin delivery (AID) use (vs non-use) was related to higher satisfaction for adolescents (4.52 [0.71] vs 4.20 [0.87], P = .008) and parents (4.25 [0.82] vs 3.71 [0.90], P < .001). Pump use was not significantly related. Parent satisfaction was correlated with hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c; R = −0.301, P < .001), percent time-in-range (R = 0.214, P = .007), and percent time-above-range (R = −0.193, P = .015). Adolescent satisfaction was unrelated to glycemic measures. Adolescent and parent satisfaction were both related to better psychosocial functioning. Significant associations between AID use, psychosocial functioning, and glycemic control and device satisfaction remained after accounting for one another. Demographic correlates were non-significant.

Conclusions:

Adolescents and their parents have discrepant levels of satisfaction with devices. Although both adolescent and parent satisfaction are linked to use of automated technology and better psychosocial functioning, only parent satisfaction is associated with glycemia. This pattern suggests adolescents and parents hold varying priorities when it comes to device use. Acknowledging and addressing these differences may enhance the uptake and continued use of devices.
Exploring the Medicinal Potential of Hyptis suaveolens (Lamiaceae): A Comprehensive Review of Phytochemicals, Pharmacological Properties, and Drug Development Prospects
Authors: Worku Limenew Abate , Bachheti Rakesh Kumar , Bisht Surendra Singh , Bachheti Archana , Alemu Woinshet Kassie
Published: November 2024

Hyptis suaveolens is a widely well-known species of the Lamiaceae family. This plant is regarded as noxious exotic invasive weeds. It has medicinal and insecticidal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various illnesses. This review examines the potential utility of the understudied plant species H. suaveolens for future drug development and design, the existence of medicinally significant secondary metabolites, and their potential pharmacological and pharmacognostic importance . Search engines such as Science Direct, Google Scholar, Springer Link, PubMed, and Scopus were used to find data and information to write this paper. Alkaloids, essential oils, terpenoids, sterols, tannins, saponins, and flavonoids are only a few of the phytochemicals abundant in H. suaveolens that have therapeutic value . These bioactive compounds possess diaphoretic, analgesic, gastroprotective, antiviral, antimicrobial, anticancer, antispasmodic, antirheumatic, antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antiulcer properties. Among the polyphenolic substances found in high concentration in H. suaveolens are methyl rosamarinate, p-coumaric acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid, prodelphinidins, syringic acid, profisetinidins, protocatechuic acid, gentisic acid, caffeic acid, rosamarinic acid, and proanthocyanidins. In H. suaveolens, some terpenoid bioactive compounds such as ursolic acid, methyl suaveolate, suaveolic acid, beta-sitosterol, and suaveolol are available in different parts of the plant. Some essential compounds, such as Linoleic acid, Palmitic acid, and Oleic acid, are found in the seed oils of H. suaveolens. Pentacyclic triterpenoid and ursolic acid from H. suaveolens have been reported to have effective antiviral response s. The plant extract is used to prepare silver and copper nanoparticles for different biological activities. Due to these characteristics, the plant may be able to treat resistant and recently discovered bacterial and viral infections instead of conventional medications.
The Impact of the Introduction of the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme on the General Practice Nursing Workforce in England
Authors: Leary Alison , Punshon Geoffrey , Hack Angie , Bushe Dave , Oldman Crystal
Published: November 2024

Introduction/Objectives:

To understand the impact of introducing Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) on the General Practice Nurse (GPN) workforce. A workforce/people impact assessment designed as a cross-sectional survey of a stratified sample of 900 GPN on the Queen’s Nursing Institute mailing list.

Method:

A workforce/people impact assessment was designed based on the UKCS 2014 piloted and distributed as a cross-sectional survey via a survey platform. This included questions on level of impact, kind of impact and perception of prior engagement. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.

Results:

The survey consisted of 21 questions (531 responses, response rate of 60%). ARRS deployment appears to have impacted the GPN workforce in several ways. There was positive impact on workloads from ARRS roles working in original scope, for example pharmacists medicine reviews. However, any benefit was offset by the increased workloads created by those new to general practice and/or working outside of traditional scope. This ranged from a lack of resources to provide the support those new to primary care require to practice safely, the expectations of others-that GPN will fill the gap in support and teaching to GPN directly safety netting the work of others. There was a lack of consultation regarding a major workforce change, leading to feelings of devaluation. There are some significant equity issues highlighted particularly around pay and opportunity.

Conclusion:

The introduction of ARRS has had some positive but mostly negative impact on the workload and introduced pay inequity issues on GPN.
“It's About Survival”: Resilience Strategies Among Justice-Involved Black Men Exposed to Violence and Trauma
Authors: Green Cherrell , Meadows Jermaine
Published: November 2024

This study draws on interviews with 20 low-income Black men to understand how they enact and maintain resilience over the course of their lives. Guided by Payne’s (2011) sites of resilience theoretical framework, this study offers a more comprehensive understanding as to how Black men maintain resilience while experiencing ongoing exposure to violence and trauma. In the absence of external resources, some men rested on their cultural assets provided by religion; while in response to structural violence, other Black men enacted resilience through gang membership, crime, and interpersonal violence. Additionally, we provide a nuanced discussion as to how participants engage in multiple resiliency strategies, that in some cases may appear contradictory. Black men engaged in these behaviors with the hopes of preserving their safety—both physically and psychologically, in a society that has never been interested in keeping them safe.
Magseed preoperative localization in non-palpable breast lesions: Our single-center Breast Unit experience
Authors: Carriero Serena , Cristina Grasso Maria , Albera Marco , Clelia Lucia Gambaro Anna , Stecco Alessandro , Groenhoff Léon
Published: November 2024

Background:

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate our single-center experience with Magseed as a pre-operative localization system in a cohort of 47 patients with non-palpable breast lesions.

Design and methods:

Forty-seven patients with non-palpable breast lesions, who underwent Magseed pre-operative localization followed by breast-conserving surgery between November 2022 and June 2024 at our Breast Unit were enrolled in our study. The procedure involved percutaneous placement of the Magseed into the target lesion under ultrasound (66%) or stereotactic (34%) guidance. Data on patient demographics, lesion characteristics, Magseed localization and retrieval, surgical outcomes, and complications were collected and analyzed.

Results:

Magseed localization was successful in all cases, with no marker migration or dislodgment, and all seeds were retrieved (100%). Breast-conserving surgery was successful in 97.9% of patients, with only one requiring intraoperative widening. No significant complications were reported. Histopathology revealed predominantly invasive breast cancers, with “No Special Type” being the most common subtype (42.5%).

Conclusions:

The effectiveness of this technique is proven by our results, which reflect the data in the growing scientific literature on Magseed.
Short-term Effects of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy for Achilles Tendinopathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ko Violet Man-Chi , Chen Ssu-Chi , He Xin , Fu Sai-Chuen , Franco-Obregón Alfredo , Yung Patrick Shu-Hang , Ling Samuel Ka-Kin
Published: November 2024

Background:

Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy is a potential nonoperative treatment for Achilles tendinopathy, but the current published literature on its effects is sparse.

Purpose:

To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of PEMF therapy and eccentric exercise for Achilles tendinopathy.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

A total of 65 participants met the inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to either the active PEMF group (n = 33) or the sham group (n = 32). The PEMF group received biweekly PEMF therapy (10 minutes per session) for 8 weeks, plus eccentric exercise for 12 weeks. The sham group received the same eccentric exercise for 12 weeks minus active PEMF exposure. The primary outcome was the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment–Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire. The secondary outcomes were numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) score, tendon neovascularity, and total time spent on sports per week. A physical therapist assessed all outcomes at baseline and then 4, 8, and 12 weeks after the commencement of the PEMF treatment. The level of tendon neovascularity was determined by the Öhberg score (range, 0-3).

Results:

VISA-A scores improved significantly from baseline to 12 weeks posttreatment in both the PEMF group (from 57.9 to 71.7) and the sham group (from 55.1 to 66.8) ( P < .001 for both), with no significant difference in scores between treatment groups throughout the 12 weeks ( P = .527). NPRS scores during sports also improved significantly from baseline to 12 weeks for the PEMF group (from 6.05 to 2.95) and the sham group (from 6.45 to 3.85) ( P < .001), with no group differences ( P = .346).

Conclusion:

PEMF therapy, in addition to eccentric exercise, did not improve outcome scores or tendon neovascularity compared with eccentric exercise alone in participants with Achilles tendinopathy.

Registration:

NCT05316961 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).
Local Infiltration Analgesia Versus Adductor Canal Block for Managing Pain After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Nadeem Shaheer , Ojaghi Reza , Patel Partha , Locke Eric , McGuire Andrew , Pickell Michael A.
Published: November 2024

Background:

Adductor canal block (ACB) and local infiltration analgesia (LIA) are frequently used to manage pain in patients after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

Purpose:

To compare the difference in pain scores and opioid consumption between ACB and LIA for ancillary pain management in patients after ACLR.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase databases according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Studies that compared pain scores at 2, 6, 12, or 24 hours after ACLR or provided information on 24-hour opioid consumption were included. Of 240 publications initially screened by abstract and title, 4 studies were included, and data related to participant characteristics, anesthetic technique, and pain-related outcomes were extracted. The standardized mean difference (MD) in pain scores and morphine milligram equivalents consumed in 24 hours was compared using a random-effects model.

Results:

In all studies, ropivacaine was the primary anesthetic used for LIA and ACB, with 1 study also employing bupivacaine as an alternative. The difference in pain scores between LIA and ACB was not significant at 2 hours (MD, 0.04 [95% CI, –0.22 to 0.29]; P = .79), 6 hours (MD, 0.16 [95% CI, –0.20 to 0.52]; P = .39), 12 hours (MD, 0.54 [95% CI, –0.49 to 1.56]; P = .31), or 24 hours (MD, 0.12 [95% CI, –0.10 to 0.34]; P = .28). The difference in morphine milligram equivalents was also not statistically significant (MD, –0.07 [95% CI, –0.25 to 0.11]; P = .68).

Conclusion:

From this review, the authors suggest considering LIA over ACB because of its potential to offer comparable pain relief and opioid consumption while being less time intensive. However, the study results should be interpreted with caution, given the limited number of studies included.
Estimating the Impact of Integrated Student Support on Elementary School Achievement: A Natural Experiment
Authors: Lawson Jordan L. , O’Dwyer Laura M. , Dearing Eric , Raczek Anastasia E. , Foley Claire , Khanani Noman , Walsh Mary E. , Leigh Yan R.
Published: November 2024

National interest is growing in Integrated Student Support (ISS) interventions, which offer schools systematic ways to reduce barriers to learning. The present study exploits the random component embedded within the school assignment system of a large urban school district to estimate the effect of schools providing ISS on student academic achievement at third, fourth, and fifth grade. The sample included students (N = 2,342) randomly assigned to schools—with or without ISS—via enrollment lottery. Students assigned to schools implementing ISS demonstrated higher achievement (from approximately .02% to more than 50% of a standard deviation) than those assigned to control schools. While we found some evidence for the efficacy of ISS by third grade, treatment effects were consistently largest and proved most robust across modeling strategies at fifth grade. The practical significance of these findings is discussed with attention to ongoing national efforts to improve the learning opportunities of economically disadvantaged students.
Directions of Longitudinal Relationships between Housing-related Control Beliefs and Activities of Daily Living among People with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Andersson Nilla , Iwarsson Susanne , Ullén Susann , Slaug Björn , Nilsson Maria H.
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

The gerontological literature suggests that external housing-related control beliefs (HCB) influence activities of daily living (ADL) among older people, but knowledge is scarce for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). This longitudinal study aimed to explore the directions of the relationship between external HCB and ADL among people with PD.

Methods:

Baseline (T1) and 3-year follow-up data (T2) were collected from 154 people with PD (mean age = 68 years, T1). Two regression analyses were applied, where dependent (T2 values) and independent (T1 values) variables—external HCB score and PD specific ADL (PADLS)—were switched, adjusting for age, disease severity, cognitive functioning, and accessibility problems.

Results:

There was a significant effect of ADL on external HCB (β = 3.07, p < .001, CI [1.28, 4.85]), but no effect in the reverse direction. The proportion with moderate-extreme ADL difficulties increased over time (from 20.8% to 32.5%, p = .006).

Discussion:

ADL difficulties seem to lead to higher external HCB, but not the other way around, which contradicts assumptions in environmental gerontology theories. This new knowledge can promote theory development. While additional studies are required to verify whether this is a disease-specific finding, this indicates the importance of targeting ADL if the purpose is to influence external HCB among people with PD.
A patient organization perspective: charting the course to a cure for SCN2A-related disorders
Authors: Schust Leah F. , Burke Jennifer , SanInocencio Christina , Bryan Brad A. , Ho Karen S. , Egan Shawn M.
Published: November 2024

The SCN2A gene encodes the Nav1.2 protein, a voltage-gated sodium channel crucial for initiating and transmitting action potentials in neurons. Dysfunction in Nav1.2, often stemming from genetic mutations in the SCN2A gene, leads to SCN2A-related disorders. Individuals harboring pathogenic SCN2A variants present with severe neurodevelopmental disorders such as epilepsy, autism spectrum disorders, movement disorders, cortical visual impairment, and intellectual disabilities. The FamilieSCN2A Foundation, a 501(c)(3) patient advocacy organization, is dedicated to enhancing the lives of those affected by SCN2A-related disorders. Fueled by a vision of a world with effective treatments and cures for all patients with SCN2A-related disorders, FamilieSCN2A Foundation has charted the course to a cure based on their core values of urgency, integrity, collaboration, and inclusion. Their strategic plan centers on building a comprehensive research-readiness infrastructure that maximizes the probability of bringing curative therapies to SCN2A patients. Appreciating that statistically most drug development initiatives will fail, creating an infrastructure that maximizes the number of drugs in development for SCN2A-related disorders in turn maximizes the net probability of success that FamilieSCN2A Foundation will achieving their vision. Through dynamic initiatives and notable achievements, including raising ~$6 million USD, funding 26 research grants totaling ~$4.7 million USD, and forging strategic partnerships across the SCN2A-related disorder ecosystem the foundation is actively executing its strategic plan. With SCN2A research advancing rapidly and a thriving ecosystem of diverse, engaged stakeholders, FamilieSCN2A Foundation believes the outlook for SCN2A-related disorders is bright.
Comparative thermal and compressional behaviour of natural xenotime-(Y), chernovite-(Y) and monazite-(Ce)
Authors: Pagliaro Francesco , Comboni Davide , Battiston Tommaso , Krüger Hannes , Hejny Clivia , Kahlenberg Volker , Gigli Lara , Glazyrin Konstantin , Liermann Hanns-Peter , Garbarino Gaston , Gatta G. Diego , Lotti Paolo
Published: November 2024

ATO4 compounds are a class of oxides which includes the rare earth element (REE) bearing phosphates and arsenates, REEPO4 and REEAsO4. In this study, we have investigated the isothermal high-pressure and the isobaric high-temperature behaviour of natural samples of xenotime-(Y) (ideally YPO4), chernovite-(Y) (YAsO4) and monazite-(Ce) (CePO4) from the hydrothermal veins cropping out at Mt. Cervandone in the Western Italian Alps. Experimental data based on in situ X-ray diffraction (both single-crystal and powder techniques with conventional or synchrotron radiation) have allowed us to fit the unit-cell volumes and axial thermal and compressional evolution and provide a suite of refined thermo-elastic parameters. A comprehensive analysis of the role played by the crystal chemistry on the thermo-elastic response of these minerals is discussed, along with the description of the main crystal-structural deformation mechanisms for both the zircon (xenotime and chernovite) and monazite (monazite) structural types. Pressure-induced phase transitions of xenotime-(Y) and chernovite-(Y) are discussed and compared with previous literature data, whereas a change in the compressional behaviour of monazite-(Ce) at ∼18 GPa, involving an increase in the coordination number of the REE-hosting A site, is presented and discussed.
The crystal structure of pezzottaite and the crystal chemistry of the beryl–pezzottaite series
Authors: Hawthorne Frank C.
Published: November 2024

Crystal structures along the join beryl–pezzottaite have been refined and their compositions determined by electron-microprobe analysis. All crystals show sharp uniform diffraction spots but are microscale mixtures of more than one structure. Three distinct phases were identified with different diffraction characteristics: (1) hexagonal (P6/mcc) Cs-rich beryl; (2) hexagonal–rhombohedral (

$R\overline 3 c$

) twinned pezzottaite; (3) incommensurate phases with cell dimensions resembling those of beryl with a doubled c-dimension and l indices deviating from integer values by ±0.05–0.10. Beryl (P6/mcc) structures refined to R1 indices from 2.36 to 2.91% and pezzottaite structures refined to R1 indices from 3.31 to 5.83%. In pezzottaite, the Cs1 and Cs2 sites are each occupied by Cs+, Rb+ and (H2O) with Cs+ showing a preference for Cs1; and the Na1 and Na2 sites are occupied by Na+ and Ca2+. Na+ bonds to one (H2O) group and (H2O) bonds to one Na+. The ordering of (Cs+ + Rb+) and (Na+ + Ca2+) in pezzottaite is driven by the incident bond-valence requirements of the anions coordinating the (LiO4) tetrahedron. The valence-sum rule is maintained through the (Cs+ + Rb+) + Li+ → □ + Be2+ variation in beryl by cooperative relaxation of bonds at the Si and Be tetrahedra, and in pezzottaite by cooperative relaxation of bonds at the Si, Al and Li tetrahedra. The valence-sum rule mandates that Na+ must bond to one channel (type-II) (H2O) group which, when combined with the constraint of electroneutrality, requires that compositions along the beryl–pezzottaite join must lie below the line (Cs+ + Rb+) + 2(Na+ + Ca2+) = 1 – 2Ca2+ apfu. The occurrence of an incommensurate phase at intermediate compositions is due to the interaction of the species in adjacent columns of the P6/mcc beryl structure.
‘Can do’ versus ‘Do do’ in nursing home residents: identification of contextual factors discriminating groups with aligned or misaligned physical activity and physical capacity
Authors: Adams Michael , Elser Alexander , Fricke Madeleine , Jaufmann Lydia , Wollesen Bettina , Muehlbauer Thomas , Jansen Carl-Philipp , Schwenk Michael
Published: November 2024

Background

Physical activity (PA) is fundamental to nursing home residents’ health. Likewise, physical capacity (PC) is essential to carry out activities of daily living. Although PC and PA are associated, misalignment has been reported in specific subgroups. Increased PC is oftentimes not linked to high PA (i.e., Can do - don’t do) and vice versa (i.e., Can’t do - do do). Therefore, identifying other contextual factors influencing PA in misaligned groups is important. This study aimed to identify contextual factors in nursing home residents with aligned or misaligned PA and PC.

Methods

In total, 180 nursing home residents (≥ 65 years, 79.4% females) were divided into four quadrants (Q1: Can do - do do; Q2: Can do - don’t do; Q3: Can’t do - do do; Q4: Can’t do - don’t do) based on thresholds for PA (≥ or < 2,500 steps/day) and PC (≤ or > 0.5 m/s gait speed). Kruskal-Wallis H test and effect sizes (ES) were applied to analyze quadrants’ differences regarding PA (steps per day), objective motor capacity, life-space mobility, activities of daily living (ADL), psychosocial well-being, cognition, subjective mobility-related concerns, and spatial orientation.

Results

Specific contextual factors differed significantly between the groups. Compared to Q1, Q2 presents a significantly lower life-space mobility (ES: 0.35) and objective motor capacity (ES: 0-36-0.49); Q3 has a lower objective motor capacity (ES: 0.55–1.10); Q4 shows lower independence in ADL (ES: 0.57), life-space mobility (ES: 0.48), subjective mobility-related concerns (ES: 0.38) and objective motor capacity (ES: 0.99–1.08). No significant group differences were found for psychosocial well-being, cognition, and spatial orientation.

Conclusions

This study provides new insights into PA behavior of nursing home residents. Key variables linked to PA are objective motor capacity, life-space mobility, ADL, and subjective mobility-related concerns. Surprisingly, some potentially impactful variables such as cognition, orientation, and psychosocial well-being did not differ between the groups. This may suggest that these variables may not represent key targets for interventions aiming to improve PA. This study builds the foundation for further research into the underlying mechanisms behind PA behaviors and supports future efforts to plan specific, targeted interventions for nursing home residents.

Trial registration

The trial was prospectively registered at DRKS.de with registration number DRKS00021423 on April 16, 2020.
Exploring factors influencing pedestrian accident severity: a multi-source study in the city of Berlin
Authors: Kopsacheilis Aristomenis , Politis Ioannis
Published: November 2024

Background

Road safety remains a critical concern in Europe’s transport sector. In urban areas, where 40% of total road fatalities occur, pedestrians are particularly vulnerable, since according to road safety data accidents involving a pedestrian are 2.8 and 15 times more probable to be fatal than in rural areas and motorways respectively. In line with the Vision Zero concept and the European Commission’s directives, many EU members are taking steps to improve road safety. Accordingly, the identification of the key factors behind pedestrian accident occurrence and pedestrian accident severity in urban areas is ever more relevant.

Methodology

The proposed methodology employs traditional logistic regression models and artificial neural networks, using accident data from Berlin, Germany, sourced from the Berlin Open Data portal. The dataset comprises information on 3,257 accidents involving pedestrians in 2018 or 2019, including details about involved vehicles, accident details, and injury severity information. Additionally, the dataset was augmented with average network speed data from Uber Movement and road network information from Geographic Information System (GIS) applications.

Results

Formal analysis results indicated several factors as significant to accident severity, such as involvement of bicycle or heavy vehicles, lighting conditions, speed limit and accident type. Additionally, a comparison between modelling approaches shows a clear performance advantage of ANNs over statistical models. Research findings provide insight for various stakeholders working to enhance pedestrian safety in urban areas.
EGFR-TKIs or EGFR-TKIs combination treatments for untreated advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Ao , Wang Xiaoming , Wang Lian , Zhuang Han , Xiong Liubo , Gan Xiao , Wang Qian , Tao Guanyu
Published: November 2024

Background

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and EGFR-TKI combination treatments have become the standard first-line treatments for EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. However, the best option has yet to be determined. This study compares the efficacy and safety of various first-line EGFR-TKI monotherapies and combination treatments for advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials databases, and several international conferences to identify randomized controlled trials reporting on first-line EGFR-TKI treatments for patients with advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC. The study quality was assessed using the revised tool for risk of bias in randomized trials. The efficacy and safety outcomes of the included treatments were compared by network meta-analysis based on a frequentist approach.

Results

We identified 26 trials (8,359 patients) investigating 14 treatment groups, including first, second, and third-generation EGFR-TKIs and their combination treatments. Osimertinib plus chemotherapy and lazertinib plus amivantamab showed the highest efficacy in improving progression-free survival. New third-generation EGFR-TKIs demonstrated comparable efficacy to osimertinib alone but did not surpass it. Subgroup analyses revealed slight variation in treatment efficacy based on mutation types and patient demographics. Combination treatments were associated with a higher incidence of adverse events.

Conclusion

These results reveal that osimertinib plus chemotherapy and lazertinib plus amivantamab are superior first-line options for patients with advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC. However, these combinations are associated with higher adverse event rates.
Evaluation of routine health monitoring for metabolic disorders in patients with serious mental illness on psychotropic medications: a study from Ethiopia
Authors: Zeleke Tirsit Ketsela , Teshome Abel Hedato , Assefa Meron Tademe , Chanie Gashaw Sisay , Abebe Rahel Belete
Published: November 2024

Background

Compared to the overall population, patients with mental health problems are more likely to experience concurrent physical illnesses, poorer health outcomes, and mortality. Psychotropic medications, which are the pillars in the management of mental health conditions, are associated with adverse effects such as weight gain, an increased level of glucose, and elevated circulating lipid levels, all of which contribute to metabolic disorders. Inadequate health monitoring may led to suboptimal interventions and worsening of these conditions. However, there is a lack of studies assessing routine health monitoring practices for metabolic disorders and their determinants among patients with serious mental illnesses taking psychotropic medications in Ethiopia. This study aimed to evaluate routine health monitoring for metabolic disorders and its determinants in patients with serious mental illnesses on psychotropic medications in Ethiopia.

Method

A hospital based prospective follow-up study was conducted among patients with serious mental illness taking psychotropic medications who attended the outpatient psychiatry department at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Eligible participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Routine health monitoring was evaluated using guidelines and previous literature. Binary logistic regression was employed to identify the determinants of routine health monitoring, with statistical significance determined by a p-value of less than 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

The overall routine health monitoring practice for metabolic disorders was found to be sub-optimal. Vital signs were the most commonly assessed parameters. Key determinants of routine health monitoring included participants aged 45 and above (AOR (95% CI): 2.82 (1.34–5.92), having social insurance (AOR (95% CI): 2.94 (1.86–4.64), availability of laboratory tests at the hospital (AOR (95% CI): 3.46 (2.16–5.55), and reporting of medication-related side effects (AOR (95% CI): 1.96 (1.21–3.17)).

Conclusion

Routine health monitoring for metabolic disorders in patients with serious mental illnesses attending the outpatient psychiatry department was inadequate. Health care providers should give more attention to younger patients, those without health insurance, and who are not reported side effects. These findings provide crucial insights for improving routine health monitoring and promoting better health outcomes.
Family caregiving experiences of medical school faculty: high prevalence, high strain, and low resource awareness
Authors: Skarupski Kimberly A. , Roth David L. , Durso Samuel C.
Published: November 2024

Background

Adult caregiving can be demanding and stressful, especially when the caregiver is employed. As the age of the U.S. population and workforce increases, more adults are providing care to aging family members.

Objective

To understand the prevalence and aspects of the caregiving experience and caregiving strain among department of medicine faculty members, and to gauge their awareness and utilization of caregiving resources.

Design

We used a cross-sectional survey design. A questionnaire survey was developed and launched in Redcap in October, 2022, and an invitation was emailed followed by two reminders to all full-time and part-time faculty members (N = 1053) in our department of medicine.

Main measures

Faculty demographics, caregiver status, caregiving details, degree of mental or emotional strain, and knowledge of and use of employer and external caregiver resources.

Key results

Of the 1053 faculty members who received up to three email survey invitations, 209 (20%) responded of which 76 (36%) were current caregivers and 117 (56%) were non-caregivers. Among the 76 current caregivers, 53 (70%) reported providing care for parents or parent-in-laws and 9 (12%) reported caring for a spouse. One-third of current caregivers reported caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia/memory problems. Ninety-five% of current caregivers reported some or a lot of caregiving strain. A wide variation in knowledge of and use of employer and external caregiver resources was reported.

Conclusions

Department of medicine faculty who provide adult caregiving report a high prevalence of strain and wide variation in knowledge of and use of employer and external caregiver support services, suggesting opportunity to better understand where gaps exist in providing support for caregivers.
Real-world data to improve organ and tissue donation policies: lessons learned from the tissue and organ donor epidemiology study
Authors: Greenwald Melissa A. , Ezzeldin Hussein , Blumberg Emily A. , Whitaker Barbee I. , Forshee Richard A.
Published: November 2024

Background

The transplantation of human organs, and some human tissues, is often the only life-saving therapy available for serious and life-threatening congenital, inherited or acquired diseases. However, it is associated with a risk of transmission of communicable diseases from donor to recipient. It is imperative to understand the characteristics of the donor population (including both potential and actual donors) to inform policies that protect recipient safety. The Tissue and Organ Donor Epidemiology Study (TODES) was a pilot project designed to identify and collect standardized information on deceased persons referred for organ, tissue and/or eye donation, and to estimate (to the extent possible) infectious disease prevalence and incidence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in this population. TODES is summarized here to shed light on addressable limitations on accessing data needed for transplant recipient safety. Limitations, future research needs and potential pathways to solve the remaining data needs are explored.

Methods

Retrospective data for all deceased donors during a 5-year period from 2009 to 2013 were obtained from participating organ procurement organizations (OPOs), tissue establishments and eye banks. These decedent data were used to ascertain whether the available real-world data (RWD) could be used to inform donor screening and testing policy.

Results

The TODES database contains 291 848 records received from nine OPOs and 42 451 records received from four eye banks. Data were analysed from deceased donors with at least one organ, tissue or ocular tissue recovered with the intent to transplant. Results for potential donors were not analysed. Available RWD at the time of the TODES study were not fit-for-purpose to help characterize the organ, tissue and eye donor populations and/or to inform donor screening policy.

Conclusions

Recent advances in electronic data collection systems make it more realistic to now collect fit-for-purpose RWD that address the research needed to improve transplant safety.
Genetic landscape of primary mitochondrial diseases in children and adults using molecular genetics and genomic investigations of mitochondrial and nuclear genome
Authors: Ambrose Anastasia , Bahl Shalini , Sharma Saloni , Zhang Dan , Hung Clara , Jain-Ghai Shailly , Chan Alicia , Mercimek-Andrews Saadet
Published: November 2024

Background

Primary mitochondrial diseases (PMD) are one of the most common metabolic genetic disorders. They are due to pathogenic variants in the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) or nuclear genome (nDNA) that impair mitochondrial function and/or structure. We hypothesize that there is overlap between PMD and other genetic diseases that are mimicking PMD. For this reason, we performed a retrospective cohort study.

Methods

All individuals with suspected PMD that underwent molecular genetic and genomic investigations were included. Individuals were grouped for comparison: (1) individuals with mtDNA-PMD; (2) individuals with nDNA-PMD; (3) individuals with other genetic diseases mimicking PMD (non-PMD); (4) individuals without a confirmed genetic diagnosis.

Results

297 individuals fulfilled inclusion criteria. The diagnostic yield of molecular genetics and genomic investigations was 31.3%, including 37% for clinical exome sequencing and 15.8% for mitochondrial genome sequencing. We identified 71 individuals with PMD (mtDNA n = 41, nDNA n = 30) and 22 individuals with non-PMD. Adults had higher percentage of mtDNA-PMD compared to children (p-value = 0.00123). There is a statistically significant phenotypic difference between children and adults with PMD.

Conclusion

We report a large cohort of individuals with PMD and the diagnostic yield of urine mitochondrial genome sequencing (16.1%). We think liver phenotype might be progressive and should be studied further in PMD. We showed a relationship between non-PMD genes and their indirect effects on mitochondrial machinery. Differentiation of PMD from non-PMD can be achieved using specific phenotypes as there was a statistically significant difference for muscular, cardiac, and ophthalmologic phenotypes, seizures, hearing loss, peripheral neuropathy in PMD group compared to non-PMD group.
Electrical burns in train climbers treated in the Helsinki Burn Centre during the last 30 years
Authors: Korkiamäki Aliisa , Kinnunen Eve , Lindford Andrew , Vuola Jyrki
Published: November 2024

Background

Patients who climb onto the roof of a stationary train carriage and sustain a high voltage electrical injury from the overhead cables represent a rare type of electrical injury. The aim of this study was to review all the electrical burns and their outcomes in train climbers treated in the Helsinki Burn Centre during the last three decades.

Methods

18 patients who had climbed onto the roof of a stationary electric train between November 1993 and December 2022 were included. Trauma- and outcome-related variables were collected. The primary outcome endpoints were in-hospital mortality and major amputations.

Results

16 (88.9%) patients were male. The median age was 15.5 years (range: 13–29 years). All the burns were high-voltage electrical burns. The mean burn size was 45% of the total body surface area. Three (16.7%) patients died in hospital. The mean length of the Burn Centre stay was 50 days. On average, the patients underwent 5 operations (range: 0–32) during their inpatient stay. Three patients required major amputation. Eight of the patients underwent late operations. Seven (38.9%) patients exhibited late neurological dysfunction or neuropsychological symptoms at long term follow-up.

Discussion

In conclusion, train climbers represent a rare group of young patients with electrical burns. Precautionary strategies should be implemented to prevent these injuries that are associated with high morbidity and mortality.
HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis programmatic preferences among people who inject drugs: findings from a discrete choice experiment
Authors: Eger William H. , Bazzi Angela R. , Valasek Chad J. , Vera Carlos F. , Harvey-Vera Alicia , Strathdee Steffanie A. , Pines Heather A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) holds promise for decreasing new HIV infections among people who inject drugs (PWID), yet daily oral PrEP use is low, and PrEP modality and delivery strategy preferences in this population remain understudied.

Methods

From May 2022-June 2023, we conducted a discrete choice experiment (DCE) with PWID in San Diego, California. Participants viewed 18 PrEP program scenarios in sets of three and chose their preferred scenario within each set. Scenarios consisted of various combinations of five characteristics: PrEP modality (injectable, implantable, oral), frequency of use (annual, bi-monthly, daily), service location (community-based organization, clinic, telemedicine), prescription access location (on-site, street outreach, mail), and adherence supports (social support, outreach worker, phone/text reminder). Multinomial logit regression estimated probabilities of choosing PrEP program scenarios as a function of the five characteristics to estimate part-worth utility scores (PWUS; reflecting relative preferences for specific characteristic values) and relative importance scores (RIS; reflecting the relative influence of each characteristic on program choice). We also explored differences by hypothesized modifiers of preferences (i.e., sex assigned at birth, housing status, injection frequency, prior PrEP awareness).

Results

Among 262 participants, mean age was 43.1 years, and most reported male sex assigned at birth (69.5%), identified as non-Hispanic (60.3%), and were previously unaware of PrEP (75.2%). Frequency of use (RIS: 51.5) and PrEP modality (RIS: 35.3) had the greatest influence on PrEP program choice. Within these characteristics, participants had relative preferences for annual use (PWUS: 0.83) and oral PrEP (PWUS: 0.57), and relative aversions to daily use (PWUS: -0.76) and implantable PrEP (PWUS: -0.53). Generally, participants did not indicate preferences for specific service or prescription access locations, or adherence supports; however, among those with prior PrEP awareness, prescription access location and adherence supports had a slightly greater influence on PrEP program choices.

Conclusion

Our study considered diverse PrEP scenarios and highlighted potential preferences for long-acting oral modalities. Although not currently available, renewed investment in long-acting oral PrEP formulations may facilitate PrEP care engagement among PWID. Additional delivery and implementation strategy research is needed to support PrEP uptake and persistence in this population.