bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individuals with a migratory background can offer valuable insight to improve the treatment and prevention of gambling harms
Authors: Marionneau Virve , Järvinen-Tassopoulos Johanna
Published: November 2023

Migration is a risk factor for gambling-related harms. Little research has been conducted on gambling and gambling harms among migrant groups in Finland, but there are indications that gambling participation is high among migrants also in this context. Russian speakers constitute the largest migrant group in Finland. This study focuses on the experiences and views of Russian speakers in Finland on the Finnish gambling system and its relationship to gambling harms. The study is based on the results of qualitative data collected on gambling experiences among Russian-speaking residents of Finland. The data consist of an online survey directed at individuals who gamble (N = 26) and interviews conducted among family members of those gambling (N = 3). Russian speakers in Finland view gambling as highly normalised in the Finnish society. This normalisation reinforced by availability, accessibility, and state involvement. Russian speakers also have perspective on how to better prevent and treat gambling harms in Finland. Involving migrants with experience of different gambling systems can provide critical insight on established practices in gambling systems.
Sound insulation performance and modal analysis of asymmetrical insulating laminated glass
Authors: Zhu Xi , Wang Li Juan , Wang Xiao Li , Zheng Yi De , Luo Liang
Published: November 2023

Windows are commonly the primary way for noise to enter the building environment. Most windows achieve higher sound insulation targets by simply increasing glass thickness or laminate. However, the glass thickness cannot be increased freely due to the window frame’s limitation. This research selects eleven kinds of asymmetric insulating laminated glass (glass + polyvinyl butyral + glass + air + glass) within 27 mm, which are the typical thicknesses of window frames. The three pieces of glass have equal thicknesses. The half-space acoustics method investigated the acoustic properties and modal behavior of the glass with finite thickness. The results show that when PVB or three glass increases simultaneously, and the sound insulation of each glass can be improved by 0.9∼3.4 dB or 3.7∼21.8 dB at first resonant frequencies, respectively. The glass with the best sound insulation is 7 mm glass + 0.76 mm polyvinyl butyral + 7 mm glass + 5 mm air + 7 mm glass (7 + 0.76 + 7 + 5A + 7 for short). Its sound transmission loss (TL) is 38.5 dB from 125 to 4000 Hz and 16.8 dB in the first resonant frequency (200 Hz). In addition, its first resonant frequency is the highest among eleven kinds of glass, and the number of natural frequencies in the low frequency range is only 9. These findings can provide a basis for designing asymmetric insulating laminated glass to improve the low frequency noise reduction effect effectively.
Investigation of vibration of the nano rotating blade coupled with viscous fluid medium by considering the nonlocal elastic theory
Authors: Eskandari Ali , Ahmadi Arpanahi Reza , Daneh-Dezfuli Alireza , Mohammadi Bijan , Hosseini Hashemi Shahrokh
Published: November 2023

In view of the great importance of dynamical behavior prediction of nanostructures in contact with fluid and their vast range of applications in biomedical engineering, aerospace, etc., in this research, the free vibration of a Nanoscale Euler-Bernoulli rotating beam coupled with incompressible viscous fluid is studied. Small-scale effects are applied by using nonlocal elasticity theory. Using the Navier-Stokes relation, the interaction forces between the fluid and nanobeam are obtained. Governing differential equations have been solved by Galerkin method and the system vibrations frequency response has been obtained for clamped-free boundary condition. Based on the results of this research, nonlocal elasticity has a different effect on different vibration modes. The frequency of the nanobeam coupled with the fluid quickly increases when applying this theory, and the presence of fluid reduces the natural frequencies.
Peer correction of misinformation on social media: (In)civility, success experience and relationship consequences
Authors: Heiss Raffael , Nanz Andreas , Knupfer Helena , Engel Elena , Matthes Jörg
Published: November 2023

Misinformation often involves sensitive topics, and individuals may attempt to correct their peers using uncivil tones. We examined the effect of civil versus uncivil corrections on the perceived success of the correction and the reported relationship consequences. We used three-wave panel data consisting of 1513 participants in the first wave, and followed 686 individuals who participated in all three waves. Our results indicate that demographic variables were important predictors of the frequency and tone of correction. Furthermore, individuals reported an equal number of successful and unsuccessful correction experiences. Importantly, we found that more frequent civil correction was associated with a higher likelihood of success, and a successful correction experience was associated with positive relationship outcomes. In contrast, uncivil correction was associated with negative relationship consequences. In addition, individuals with higher appraisal literacy and those correcting close ties were more likely to report successful correction experiences.
Correlation between 25 (OH) D levels in aqueous humor and the patients with ARC
Authors: Huang Gang , Suo Wen Qi , Du Jian Ying , Zhang Xiong
Published: November 2023

Objective

Age-related cataract (ARC) is an eye disease characterized by lens opacity. This study analyzed the correlation between 25 hydroxyvitamin D [25 (OH) D] levels and Interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels in aqueous humor from the patients with ARC, as well as between 25 (OH) D levels and lens opacity, and explored the effect of 25 (OH) D on the pathogenesis of ARC.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed, which included the clinical data from 120 ARC patients and 40 healthy individuals. They were divided into three groups based on the objective scattering index (OSI): 40 healthy individuals (control group), 84 patients with the early cataract (EC group), and 36 patients with the mature cataract (MC group). An electrochemical luminescence method was used to detect the levels of 25 (OH) D and IL-6 in aqueous humor, the OSI of the eye was measured using a visual quality analysis system. The correlation between the changes in the above indicators and ARC was analyzed.

Results

The OSI and IL-6 levels in the control group, EC group, and MC group increased sequentially (all p < .001), while the levels of 25 (OH) D showed an opposite trend (all p < .001).

Conclusion

The decrease in 25 (OH) D levels is related to the occurrence and development of ARC, and the relationship between 25 (OH) D deficiency and the pathological mechanism of ARC needs further research.
Algorithmic benchmark modulation: A novel method to develop success rates for clinical studies
Authors: Willigers Bart JA , Nagarajan Sridevi , Ghiorghui Serban , Darken Patrick , Lennard Simon
Published: November 2023

Background

High-quality decision-making in the pharmaceutical industry requires accurate assessments of the Probability of Technical Success of clinical trials. Failure to do so will lead to lost opportunities for both patients and investors. Pharmaceutical companies employ different methodologies to determine Probability of Technical Success values. Some companies use power and assurance calculations; others prefer to use industry benchmarks with or without the overlay of subjective modulations. At AstraZeneca, both assurance calculations and industry benchmarks are used, and both methods are combined with modulations.

Methods

AstraZeneca has recently implemented a simple algorithm that allows for modulation of a Probability of Technical Success value. The algorithm is based on a set of multiple-choice questions. These questions cover a comprehensive set of issues that have historically been considered by AstraZeneca when subjective modulations to Probability of Technical Success values were made but do so in a much more structured way.

Results

A set of 57 phase 3 Probability of Technical Success assessments suggests that AstraZeneca’s historical estimation of Probability of Technical Success has been reasonably accurate. A good correlation between the subjective modulation and the modulation algorithm was found. This latter observation, combined with the finding that historically AstraZeneca has been reasonably accurate in its estimation of Probability of Technical Success, gives confidence in the validity of the novel method.

Discussion

Although it is too early to demonstrate whether the method has improved the accuracy of company’s Probability of Technical Success assessments, we present our data and analysis here in the hope that it may assist the pharmaceutical industry in addressing this key challenge. This new methodology, developed for pivotal studies, enables AstraZeneca to develop more consistent Probability of Technical Success assessments with less effort and can be used to adjust benchmarks as well as assurance calculations.

Conclusion

The Probability of Technical Success modulation algorithm addresses several concerns generally associated with assurance calculations or benchmark without modulation: selection biases, situations where little relevant prior data are available and the difficulty to model many factors affecting study outcomes. As opposed to using industry benchmarks, the Probability of Technical Success modulation algorithm allows to accommodate project-specific considerations.
Long-term results of index finger pollicization for congenital thumb anomalies: a systematic review
Authors: Barik Sitanshu , Matic Ida , Farr Sebastian
Published: November 2023

This systematic review analyses the literature for long-term outcomes of index finger pollicization. This review includes all seven studies that reported outcomes of index finger pollicization for congenital thumb aplasia or hypoplasia for qualitative review. The seven studies included 108 index finger pollicizations with 54% male children. The studies did not describe the preoperative quality and function of the transposed index finger. Grip strength was in the range of 52%–76% of the contralateral hand. Lateral pinch and key grip strength were also approximately 50% of the contralateral hand. The main drawback of the collective literature is the lack of homogeneity of results and a standardized protocol for reporting postoperative outcomes. These factors need to be addressed to compare the long-term results of pollicizations accurately.
Hemi-hamate arthroplasty outcomes: a single-centre experience
Authors: Brennan Christie , Dargan Dallan , Haeney James
Published: November 2023

This retrospective observational study evaluated outcomes after hemi-hamate arthroplasty. A palmar cortical step caused by the osteochondral graft was associated with reduced proximal interphalangeal joint range of motion compared to a flush palmar cortex at early follow-up (62° vs. 83°; p = 0.006).
Development of a core outcome set for traumatic brachial plexus injury
Authors: Miller Caroline , Cross Jane , Power Dominic M. , Jerosch-Herold Christina ,   International brachial plexus consensus group, Moore Amy , Shaarani Andrea , Källströmer Anna , Alexander Anne , Hill Bridget , Farrell Carolyne , Wee Catherine , Dy Christopher , Larsen Dorthe Juul , Ng Chye Yew , Romer-Prieto Fernando Xavier , Reilly Fiona , Ivaldo Flavio Caesar , Bourke Grainne , Brown Hazel , Millkvist Helena , Kissow Helen , Holly Janet , Cullen Jaslyn , Sullivan Joel O , Groen Justus , Johnson Kathryn , Stihl Kerstin , Evertsson Linda , Kahn Lorna , Warner Lynsey , Harris Matthew , Zaccariotto Monise , Cardoso Mairciomarcio Mendonca , Madsen Monica Damholt , Pinner Paula Pino , Dekker Paul , Jordaan Pieter , Burke Philip , Bhardwaj Praveen , Wahlstrom Per , Payne Rebecca , Hurley Rhian , Wade Rickie , Hess Sally Anne , Rao Saood Ahmad , Brito Sara , Ewald Sarah , Taplin Sarah , Tan Simon , Dobbs Sophie , Sjerén Stina , Beale Suzanne , Oxley Suzanne , Cole Tanya , Hems Tim , Madura Tomas , Quick Tom , Pondaag Willem
Published: November 2023

The aim of the present study was to reach international consensus on the minimum set of outcomes to measure and report in adult traumatic brachial plexus injury care and research. This would facilitate comparison of outcomes from different centres and meta-analysis in research. A list of outcomes was developed from a systematic review ( n = 54) and patient interviews ( n = 12). The outcomes were rated in a three-round online Delphi survey completed by international surgeons, patients and therapists. Two online consensus meetings with patients and clinicians ratified the final core outcome set. A total of 72 people (20 surgeons, 21 patients, 31 therapists) from 19 countries completed all survey rounds. Thirty-eight people from nine countries attended separate patient ( n = 13) and clinician consensus ( n = 25) meetings. Outcomes were included if recommended by more than 85% of contributors. Pain, voluntary movement and carrying out a daily routine are the core outcome domains that should be assessed and reported when treating and researching adults with a traumatic brachial plexus injury.

Level of evidence

V
Does correction of carpal malalignment influence the union rate of scaphoid nonunion surgery?
Authors: McLaughlin Kealan , Jabbar Faizan A. A. , Kelly Luke J. , Jovanovic Iva , Gray Matthew P. , Charalambous Charalambos P. , Harrison John W. K.
Published: November 2023

The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the relation between carpal malalignment correction and radiological union rates in surgery for scaphoid nonunions. A total of 59 scaphoid waist fracture nonunions treated with open reduction and palmar tricortical autograft were divided according to their pre- and postoperative scapholunate (SL) and radiolunate (RL) angles. We found that carpal malalignment failed to correct in 32 of 59 (54.2%) patients despite meticulous surgical technique and placement of an appropriately sized wedge-shaped graft. In total, 43 (72.9%) fractures united at a mean of 4.47 months (range 3–11). Of the 27 fractures with postoperative SL and RL angles within the normal range, 21 united, whereas 22 of the 32 remaining fractures that failed to achieve postoperative angles within the normal range went on to union. The postoperative SL and RL angles were not related to union. Our findings suggest that in scaphoid fracture nonunion surgery, carpal malalignment may not be corrected in a substantial proportion of patients, but such correction may not be essential for bony union. Our findings also show that there is no marked collapse of the scaphoid graft in the early postoperative period.

Level of evidence

IV
Mental health and psychosocial support for children with upper limb musculoskeletal conditions
Authors: Persaud Deanna , Hutchison Tamsen , Anthony Samantha J. , Davidge Kristen M. , Clarke Howard M. , Ho Emily S.
Published: November 2023

This study describes mental health and psychosocial screening processes, access to care and interventions provided to children with upper limb musculoskeletal conditions. A cross-sectional e-survey study was conducted of 107 healthcare professionals who work with children with congenital hand and upper limb differences and brachial plexus birth injuries. Of them, 41 (38%) reported that they routinely screen for mental health and psychosocial concerns. Few (12%) reported the use of standardized outcome measures. In total, 51 (48%) healthcare professionals reported that there was a waiting list for mental health services at their institution. Collectively, healthcare professionals were unsatisfied with the staffing, access to care and types of interventions available. Reported barriers to care included the growing need for mental health support, lack of resources and poor continuity of care after referrals. Future research should focus on identifying and validating a mental health screening tool and investigating the processes affecting access to mental health care.

Level of evidence: IV
Alienation flows through the barrel of a gun: Despair, mass shootings, and suicide in an American settler colony
Authors: Gahman Levi
Published: November 2023

In what is now referred to by many as the United States, gun violence rages on. When one considers the country’s sheer number of annual gun deaths, the data is as overwhelming as it is distressing. Indeed, perhaps the only thing outpacing the trauma and loss of life wrought by gun violence is the anguish and grief of those who are impacted by it. Despite the shocking statistics and fervent calls for change, few efforts have been effective at curbing the harm. Such a reality raises pressing questions about why gun violence in the U.S. is so prevalent, and what can be done to prevent it. In this Contention, I maintain that the only way out of the U.S.’s centuries-long doom spiral of gun violence will be reckoning with the nation’s historical-ongoing trajectories of settler colonialism, heteropatriarchy, white supremacy, and imperialism. I further contend that any effort to eliminate gun violence in the U.S. mandates ending mass alienation and taking masculinity to task. Accordingly, I illustrate how guns are not actually the root of the problem, even though their ease of access and the culture(s) surrounding them are corollary symptoms that necessitate urgent intervention. In short, I argue that resolving gun violence in the U.S. demands a historical-structural-intersectional focus and that the source of the country’s firearm-involved deaths are alienation, despair, and oppression owed to capitalism, entrenched patriarchal social relations, and the settler colonial state­­––all of which must be abolished if we are seriously concerned with livable futures.
Collectively Classical: Connectedness, Awe, Feeling Moved, and Motion at a Live and Livestreamed Concert
Authors: Swarbrick Dana , Vuoskoski Jonna Katariina
Published: November 2023

Live concerts normally involve gathering at the same time and place. In livestreamed concerts, participants may gather in time but not in space, providing a natural comparison for studying live concert experiences. Previous research suggests that livestreamed concerts promote more social connectedness than pre-recorded concerts and that live concerts promote more movement than listening to recorded music in a group. However, to the best of our knowledge, a comparison between live and livestreamed concerts has not been conducted. The Danish String Quartet is a critically acclaimed music group who performed a live concert that was also livestreamed. The live and livestreaming audiences’ emotions were measured with surveys that collected data on connectedness, feeling moved, and awe after each piece. In addition, audience motion was measured with an application that recorded from the participants' own smartphones’ accelerometers. Survey responses were collected from 91 live and 32 livestreaming participants. Motion data was collected from 82 live and 25 livestreaming participants. While the live audience felt more connected to other audience members than the livestreaming audience, both live and livestreaming audiences felt similarly connected to the performers. Feeling moved and awe were influenced by the piece of music, but not by the audience condition (i.e., live or livestreaming audience). During the classical Beethoven and Schnittke pieces, the live audience moved less, while during the folk tunes, the live audience moved more. The differences between pieces were smaller in the livestreaming audience. The live audience reported more connectedness to the audience when their neighbors moved more during the folk and less during the Beethoven and Schnittke. Connectedness with other audience members was also related to the amount that an individual stilled in response to key musical moments in the pieces. Together, these findings show that the classical concert audience actively engages with the music and the associated socioemotional experience based on genre-specific norms and expectations.
A systematic review of the literature on policies to encourage the return of Chinese students abroad
Authors: Wang Manman
Published: November 2023

To obtain a reverse in the recent increasing brain-drain, the Chinese government has instituted policies for attracting students studying abroad to return to China. This article offers insights into the incentives created by the state and how returnees respond to the policies in the process of their implementation. The study analyzes empirical studies and literature reviews on Chinese returning students and policies regarding them published during the years 2012–2022. Four major research topics are dealt with: the methods initiated by China to coerce and encourage students to return to China, the reaction of overseas students to these initiatives, other invisible effects of policy on overseas students, and influential factors that encourage their return.
What are COVID-19 Patient Preferences for and Experiences with Virtual Care? Findings From a Scoping Review
Authors: Chung-Lee Leinic , Catallo Cristina , Meade Ava
Published: November 2023

Virtual care became a routine method for healthcare delivery during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Patient preferences are central to delivering patient-centered and high-quality care. The pandemic challenged healthcare organizations and providers to quickly deliver safe healthcare to COVID-19 patients. This resulted in varied implementation of virtual healthcare services. With an increased focus on remote COVID-19 monitoring, little research has examined patient experiences with virtual care. This scoping review examined patient experiences and preferences with virtual care among community-based self-isolating COVID-19 patients. We identified a paucity of literature related to patient experiences and preferences regarding virtual care. Few articles focused on patient experiences and preferences as a primary outcome. Our research suggests that (1) patients view virtual care positively and to be feasible to use; (2) patient access to technology impacts patient satisfaction and experiences; and (3) to enhance the patient experience, healthcare organizations and providers need to support patient use of technology and resolve technology-related issues. When planning virtual care modalities, purposeful consideration of patient experiences and preferences is needed to deliver quality patient-centered care.
G20 in Catalyzing Private Development Finance: Potentials and Prospects
Authors: Govindaraj Rose
Published: November 2023

This study explores the possibilities and prospects of the G20’s involvement in igniting private development financing, which is crucial for fostering economic growth and development in underdeveloped nations. The G20 has acknowledged the essential role that private development finance plays in attaining global development objectives. It also assesses the G20’s policies and programs for promoting private development financing, citing examples like the Global Infrastructure Connectivity Alliance and the Compact with Africa. The evaluation also takes into account India’s views on G20 initiatives like the G20 Innovation Partnership for Inclusive Development and the present situation. The findings from the study show that the G20 has made a substantial effort to spur private development financing, although there are still gaps and difficulties in their work. Challenges that must be overcome include, for example, the lack of coordination among G20 countries and the requirement for stronger risk-sharing systems. This study offers valuable insights for policymakers, private sector corporations, and other stakeholders involved in promoting economic growth and development in developing nations. This also highlights India’s G20 Presidency and its initiatives to encourage private investment. The suggestions made in this article are intended to fill in the gaps and overcome the obstacles facing the G20’s initiatives to spur private development financing, which may help achieve the world development goals, particularly from the Indian perspective.
Adverse childhood experiences and mental ill-health - obesity comorbidity among British adolescents – A national cohort study
Authors: Karamanos Alexis , Khanolkar Amal R.
Published: November 2023

Background

Mental ill-health and obesity are increasingly prevalent in childhood with both conditions likely to co-occur. Less is known about associations between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and mental ill-health and obesity (MH-OB) comorbidity in adolescence. The aim of this study was to examine associations between ACEs and MH-OB comorbidity in adolescents from a national cohort study.

Methods

Participants; 10,734 adolescents (males = 50.3%) from the Millennium Cohort Study with 6 ACEs (for e.g., parental MH, drug/alcohol misuse, physical punishment) collected prospectively between ages 3-11 years. MH-OB comorbidity (binary indicator) was based on objectively measured BMI (for overweight/obesity) and self-reported depression/anxiety at ages 14 and 17. Associations between: 1.total ACE scores (0, 1, 2 or ≥3) and additionally each individual ACE, and MH-OB, were analysed used logistic regression, separately at 14 and 17 years.

Results

At age 14, ACE scores were associated with higher odds for MH-OB comorbidity, with a gradient of increasing odds ratios (OR) with increasing ACEs. Individuals with 1 (OR:1.22[95%CI: 1.1-1.6]), 2 (OR:1.7[1.3-2.3]), or ≥3ACEs (OR:2[1.5-2.6]) had increased odds for MH-OB comorbidity compared to those with 0 ACEs. At age 17, associations between ACE scores and MH-OB were attenuated and observed in individuals with ≥3ACEs (OR:1.54, 1.1-2.3). Parental MH (OR:1.5, 1.2-1.9), intimate-partner violence (OR:1.2, 1.1-1.6), physical punishment (OR:1.3, 1.1-1.6), bullying (OR:2, 1.6-2.5) were associated with MH-OB comorbidity age 14. However, only parental MH (OR:1.5, 1.1-2.1) and bullying (OR:1.6, 1.2-2.1) were associated with MH-OB comorbidity at age 17.

Conclusion

ACEs are associated with increased risk of MH-OB comorbidity in between ages 14 and 17. These findings provide timely opportunity for interventions to reduce risk and are pertinent given that MH and obesity contribute significantly to global burden of disease and track across the lifecourse.
Constructing gene similarity networks using co-occurrence probabilities
Authors: Mirzaei Golrokh
Published: November 2023

Gene similarity networks play important role in unraveling the intricate associations within diverse cancer types. Conventionally, gauging the similarity between genes has been approached through experimental methodologies involving chemical and molecular analyses, or through the lens of mathematical techniques. However, in our work, we have pioneered a distinctive mathematical framework, one rooted in the co-occurrence of attribute values and single point mutations, thereby establishing a novel approach for quantifying the dissimilarity or similarity among genes. Central to our approach is the recognition of mutations as key players in the evolutionary trajectory of cancer. Anchored in this understanding, our methodology hinges on the consideration of two categorical attributes: mutation type and nucleotide change. These attributes are pivotal, as they encapsulate the critical variations that can precipitate substantial changes in gene behavior and ultimately influence disease progression. Our study takes on the challenge of formulating similarity measures that are intrinsic to genes' categorical data. Taking into account the co-occurrence probability of attribute values within single point mutations, our innovative mathematical approach surpasses the boundaries of conventional methods. We thereby provide a robust and comprehensive means to assess gene similarity and take a significant step forward in refining the tools available for uncovering the subtle yet impactful associations within the complex realm of gene interactions in cancer.
Secondary analysis of potential associations between oral health and infection-related parameters in patients with severe heart failure—results of a German cohort
Authors: Schmalz Gerhard , Hennecke Alina , Haak Rainer , Kottmann Tanja , Garbade Jens , Binner Christian , Ziebolz Dirk
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Aim of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate whether oral health parameters would be associated with infection-related parameters and overall survival of patients with severe heart failure (HF).

Methods

Patients with severe HF, heart transplantation (HTx) and left-ventricular assist device (LVAD), which underwent a full oral examination between 2017 and 2018 were included. Infection-related and survival data were assessed from the patient´s medical records. The oral examination included: remaining teeth, caries and periodontal condition, including periodontal probing depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), and diagnosis (staging/grading). In addition, the periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA) was determined. Statistical analysis included Chi-square, Fisher´s exact and Mann-Whitney-U test, as well as a logistic regression, considering age, gender, body-mass-index (BMI), diabetes and several oral health parameters with regard to overall survival and infections at heart/driveline.

Results

329 patients (HTx: 34%, LVAD: 38.9%, HF: 27.1%), were included. Patients had on average 18.96 ± 8.90 remaining teeth, whereby the majority had a periodontitis stage III or IV (88.7%) and a grade B (80.5%). Higher BOP was associated with infections at heart/driveline (p = 0.04) and outside the heart (p < 0.01) during follow-up. Increased PISA was significantly associated with bacterial infections outside the heart (p < 0.01) and sepsis (p = 0.02). Only BMI of 25 or higher correlated with an increased risk of infections at heart/driveline in regression analysis (OR 3.063, CI95 1.158–8.101, p = 0.02), while no associations between oral health parameters and infections at heart/driveline or overall survival were confirmed.

Conclusions

In patients with severe HF, periodontal inflammation might be associated with infection-related parameters. Improved dental care, especially including periodontal therapy and maintenance might be favourable to support prevention of infections in patients with severe HF.
How important is the linearity assumption in a sample size calculation for a randomised controlled trial where treatment is anticipated to affect a rate of change?
Authors: Morgan Katy E. , White Ian R. , Frost Chris
Published: November 2023

Background

For certain conditions, treatments aim to lessen deterioration over time. A trial outcome could be change in a continuous measure, analysed using a random slopes model with a different slope in each treatment group. A sample size for a trial with a particular schedule of visits (e.g. annually for three years) can be obtained using a two-stage process. First, relevant (co-) variances are estimated from a pre-existing dataset e.g. an observational study conducted in a similar setting. Second, standard formulae are used to calculate sample size. However, the random slopes model assumes linear trajectories with any difference in group means increasing proportionally to follow-up time. The impact of these assumptions failing is unclear.

Methods

We used simulation to assess the impact of a non-linear trajectory and/or non-proportional treatment effect on the proposed trial’s power. We used four trajectories, both linear and non-linear, and simulated observational studies to calculate sample sizes. Trials of this size were then simulated, with treatment effects proportional or non-proportional to time.

Results

For a proportional treatment effect and a trial visit schedule matching the observational study, powers are close to nominal even for non-linear trajectories. However, if the schedule does not match the observational study, powers can be above or below nominal levels, with the extent of this depending on parameters such as the residual error variance. For a non-proportional treatment effect, using a random slopes model can lead to powers far from nominal levels.

Conclusions

If trajectories are suspected to be non-linear, observational data used to inform power calculations should have the same visit schedule as the proposed trial where possible. Additionally, if the treatment effect is expected to be non-proportional, the random slopes model should not be used. A model allowing trajectories to vary freely over time could be used instead, either as a second line analysis method (bearing in mind that power will be lost) or when powering the trial.
The association of female reproductive factors with risk of metabolic syndrome in women from NHANES 1999–2018
Authors: Zuo Ronghua , Ge Yiting , Xu Jingbo , He Lin , Liu Tao , Wang Bing , Sun Lifang , Wang Shasha , Zhu Zhijian , Wang Yuefei
Published: November 2023

Background

Female reproductive factors such as age at first birth (AFB), age at last birth (ALB), number of pregnancies and live births play an essential role in women’s health. However, few epidemiological studies have evaluated the association between female reproductive factors and metabolic syndrome (MetS). We therefore conducted a cross-sectional study to investigate the association between MetS risk and female reproductive factors.

Methods

We investigated the relationship between AFB, ALB, number of pregnancies and live births and the incidence of MetS using publicly available data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 to 2018. Weighted multivariable logistic regression analysis, restricted cubic spline (RCS) model, and subgroup analysis were used to evaluate the association between AFB and ALB and the risk of MetS in women. In addition, the relationship between the number of pregnancies, live births and MetS risk was also explored.

Results

A total of 15,404 women were included in the study, and 5,983 (38.8%) had MetS. RCS models showed an N-shaped relationship between AFB and MetS risk, whereas ALB, number of pregnancies, and live births were linearly associated with MetS. Weighted multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the number of live births was associated with MetS risk, with ORs of 1.18 (95% CI: 1.04, 1.35) for women with ≥ 5 deliveries compared to women with ≤ 2 births.

Conclusions

AFB was associated with the risk of MetS in an N-shaped curve in women. In addition, women with high live births have a higher incidence of MetS.
Causal associations between hand grip strength and pulmonary function: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhao Xianghu , Xu Wenyuan , Gu Yanchao , Li Zhanghua , Sun Guiju
Published: November 2023

Background

Several observational studies have reported an association between hand grip strength (HGS) and pulmonary function (PF). However, causality is unclear. To investigate whether HGS and PF are causally associated, we performed Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses.

Methods

We identified 110 independent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for right-hand grip strength (RHGS) and 103 independent SNPs for left-hand grip strength (LHGS) at the genome-wide significant threshold (P < 5 × 10−8) from MRC-IEU Consortium and evaluated these related to PF. MR estimates were calculated using the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method and multiple sensitivity analyses were further performed.

Results

Genetical liability to HGS was positively causally associated with forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), but not with FEV1/FVC. In addition, there was positive causal association between RHGS and FVC (OR=1.519; 95% CI, 1.418-1.627; P=8.96E-33), and FEV1 (OR=1.486; 95% CI, 1.390-1.589; P=3.19E-31); and positive causal association between LHGS and FVC (OR=1.464; 95% CI, 1.385-1.548; P=2.83E-41) and FEV1 (OR=1.419; 95% CI, 1.340-1.502; P=3.19E-33). Nevertheless, no associations were observed between RHGS and FEV1/FVC (OR=0.998; 95% CI, 0.902-1.103; P=9.62E-01) and between LHGS and FEV1/FVC (OR=0.966; 95% CI, 0.861-1.083; P=5.52E-01). Similar results were shown in several sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Our study provides support at the genetic level that HGS is positively causally associated with FVC and FEV1, but not with FEV1/FVC. Interventions for HGS in PF impairment deserve further exploration as potential indicators of PF assessment.
Relationship between menstruation-related experiences and health-related quality of life of Japanese high school students: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nakao Motoyuki , Ishibashi Yuko , Hino Yumika , Yamauchi Keiko , Kuwaki Kotaro
Published: November 2023

Background

Recently, there has been a growing global movement concerning menstruation, a healthy and natural physiological phenomenon in women. The disadvantages caused by menstruation are “gender-based obstacles.“ Adolescent girls are also under its influence and perhaps in a more vulnerable situation than adult women. This study investigated the experiences related to menstruation that affect health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of high school students in Japan.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted at a municipal high school in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. The study population comprised 233 female students among which 198 completed the questionnaire. The questionnaire contained items about menstruation and HRQOL measured by the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36).

Results

Approximately a quarter had experienced difficulties in obtaining sanitary products in the past year, whether for economic or non-economic reasons. Menstruation-associated symptoms, impact on daily life, trouble with menstruation at an unexpected time, usage of painkillers, unhealthy lifestyle, and negative perception of menstruation were significantly associated with lower HRQOL scores, particularly in the mental component summary scores of the SF-36.

Conclusions

For the high school students with severe menstruation-associated symptoms that interfere with their daily lives, the results of this study suggest that improving access to medical care, information, and education can contribute to a better HRQOL.
Assessment of suturing and scaling skills of periodontology and oral medicine residents by OSATS method: a pilot study
Authors: Maybodi Fahimeh Rashidi , Keshmiri Fatemeh , Kazemipoor Maryam , Owlia Fatemeh
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Updating the method for evaluating suturing and scaling skills in dental education has attracted relatively little attention and there is no consensus to what should be assessed and how. The purpose of this study was to investigate the applicability of the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill (OSATS) method for these two basic skills, the possible association between the scores and demographic factors, and the level of satisfaction of residents with this method.

Methods

All six periodontics and three oral medicine residents were recruited by census method and video-recorded while performing a simple interrupted suture, a figure eight suture and scaling on a model. Then, the videos were evaluated independently via a checklist and a global rating scale (GRS) by two expert raters. Agreement between raters and residents’ satisfaction were evaluated. Correlation between demographic factors of participants and scores was also assessed. T-test and linear regression analysis were used.

Results

There was no significant difference between the scores based on the views of the two raters for each of the checklist (ICC = 0.99, CI = 0.96–0.99, P < 0.001) and GRS (ICC = 0.97, CI = 0.86–0.99, P < 0.001). Linear regression showed no correlation between gender and scores but periodontics major and higher year of education showed correlation with higher scores.

Conclusion

Considering the excellent agreement between raters in using both the checklist and GRS components of OSATS, and satisfaction of 88% the residents with this method, it seems to be able to provide a reliable assessment.
Demand and supply analysis for maternal and child health services at the primary healthcare level in Nigeria
Authors: Ogu Udochukwu U. , Ebenso Bassey , Mirzoev Tolib , Uguru Nkolika , Etiaba Enyi , Uzochukwu Benjamin , Ezumah Nkoli , Onwujekwe Obinna
Published: November 2023

Background

The low demand for maternal and child health services is a significant factor in Nigeria's high maternal death rate. This paper explores demand and supply-side determinants at the primary healthcare level, highlighting factors affecting provision and utilization.

Methods

This qualitative study was undertaken in Anambra state, southeast Nigeria. Anambra state was purposively chosen because a maternal and child health programme had just been implemented in the state. The three-delay model was used to analyze supply and demand factors that affect MCH services and improve access to care for pregnant women/mothers and newborns/infants.

Result

The findings show that there were problems with both the demand and supply aspects of the programme and both were interlinked. For service users, their delays were connected to the constraints on the supply side. On the demand side, the delays include poor conditions of the facilities, the roads to the facilities are inaccessible, and equipment were lacking in the facilities. These delayed the utilisation of facilities. On the supply side, the delays include the absence of security (fence, security guard), poor citing of the facilities, inadequate accommodation, no emergency transport for referrals, and lack of trained staff to man equipment. These delayed the provision of services.

Conclusion

Our findings show that there were problems with both the demand and supply aspects of the programme, and both were interlinked. For service users, their delays were connected to the constraints on the supply side.
Identification of genetic variants in two families with Keratoconus
Authors: Lin Qinghong , Wang Xuejun , Han Tian , Zhou Xingtao
Published: November 2023

Background

This research investigated the genetic characteristic of two Chinese families with keratoconus (KC).

Methods

For all people in the two families with KC, their history, clinical data, and peripheral blood were collected. One hundred healthy participants without KC and 112 sporadic KC patients were recruited as the controls. Whole exome sequencing of the genomic DNA and polymerase chain reaction were conducted for all the controls and family members to verify the variants. Functional analyses of the variants was performed using the software programs.

Results

A missense tuberous sclerosis 1 (TSC1) variant g.135797247A > G (c.622A > G, p.Ser208Gly) was detected in family 1. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs761232139 (p.Gly235Arg) in aldehyde dehydrogenase 3 family member A1 (ALDH3A1) gene was detected in family 2. The variant c.622A > G in TSC1 and the SNP rs761232139 in ALDH3A1 were predicted as being probably damaging.

Conclusions

Novel variant c.622A > G in TSC1 and SNP rs761232139 in ALDH3A1 have been detected in families with KC. These two findings may play a role in the pathogenesis of KC.
CDK5 promotes apoptosis and attenuates chemoresistance in gastric cancer via E2F1 signaling
Authors: Cao Long-Long , Wu Yu-Kai , Lin Tong-Xin , Lin Mi , Chen Yu-Jing , Wang Ling-Qian , Wang Jia-Bin , Lin Jian-Xian , Lu Jun , Chen Qi-Yue , Tu Ru-Hong , Huang Ze-Ning , Lin Ju-Li , Zheng Hua-Long , Xie Jian-Wei , Li Ping , Huang Chang-Ming , Zheng Chao-Hui
Published: November 2023

Background

Chemoresistance is a major clinical challenge that leads to tumor metastasis and poor clinical outcome. The mechanisms underlying gastric cancer resistance to chemotherapy are still unclear.

Methods

We conducted bioinformatics analyses of publicly available patient datasets to establish an apoptotic phenotype and determine the key pathways and clinical significance. In vitro cell models, in vivo mouse models, and numerous molecular assays, including western blotting, qRT-PCR, immunohistochemical staining, and coimmunoprecipitation assays were used to clarify the role of factors related to apoptosis in gastric cancer in this study. Differences between datasets were analyzed using the Student’s t-test and two-way ANOVA; survival rates were estimated based on Kaplan–Meier analysis; and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate prognostic factors.

Results

Bulk transcriptomic analysis of gastric cancer samples established an apoptotic phenotype. Proapoptotic tumors were enriched for DNA repair and immune inflammatory signaling and associated with improved prognosis and chemotherapeutic benefits. Functionally, cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) promoted apoptosis of gastric cancer cells and sensitized cells and mice to oxaliplatin. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that CDK5 stabilizes DP1 through direct binding to DP1 and subsequent activation of E2F1 signaling. Clinicopathological analysis indicated that CDK5 depletion correlated with poor prognosis and chemoresistance in human gastric tumors.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal that CDK5 promotes cell apoptosis by stabilizing DP1 and activating E2F1 signaling, suggesting its potential role in the prognosis and therapeutic decisions for patients with gastric cancer.
Tumor-derived exosomal linc00881 induces lung fibroblast activation and promotes osteosarcoma lung migration
Authors: Chang Xinyu , Tan Qiuyu , Xu Jinwen , Wu Xu , Wang Ying , Zhang Yuan , Zhang Hao , Liu Haijun , Yan Liang
Published: November 2023

Osteosarcoma (OS) commonly metastasizes to the lung, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Exosomes play a crucial role in tumor migration, including OS lung migration. However, the underlying mechanism by which exosome-derived long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) contribute to lung migration in osteosarcoma (OS) remains unclear. This study presents a newly discovered lncRNA, linc00881, derived from OS exosomes. Our study shows that linc00881 promotes the migration of OS cells to the lung and induces the conversion of normal lung fibroblasts into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Subsequently, we found that exosomal linc00881 secreted by OS cells can regulate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) in HFL-1 cells by sponging miR-29c-3p, thereby activating the NF-κB signaling in lung fibroblasts. Finally, we discovered that pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8, were secreted through the linc00881/miR-29c-3p/MMP2 axis. These results suggest that OS-derived exosomes can mediate the intercellular crosstalk between OS cells and lung fibroblasts, ultimately impacting OS lung migration. Our study provides a potential target for the treatment of OS lung migration.

Graphical Abstract