bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Political Strategies and Ideological Transformation of Political Conservatism: Russian Monarchist Emigrant Organisations’ Political Activity in the 1920s
Authors: Kochetova Anastasiia
Published: March 2024

The twentieth century may be characterised as an epoch dominated by migratory movements, marked particularly by the substantial human displacements precipitated by wars and revolutionary upheavals during its first half. Historiographical tendencies have often led to a narrowed concentration on select dimensions of political immigration, neglecting the broader spectrum of ideological currents that influenced these movements. A case in point is the insufficiently examined narrative of Russian monarchist factions in Western Europe during the 1920s and early 1930s, and the subsequent evolution or dissolution of their ideological tenets. This research undertakes a historiographical analysis, a comprehensive review of both domestic and international scholarly literature, and a thorough evaluation of ancillary sources concerning the activities of Russian monarchist entities in Western Europe throughout the 1920s and 1930s. The study specifically accentuates the chronological segment of the 1920s within the history of the Russian monarchist movement, illuminating their concerted efforts to formulate a political doctrine that not only aimed at the reinstatement of monarchical governance but also sought to present a counter-narrative to the communist manifesto propagated by the Bolsheviks, thereby attempting to establish a more compelling and pragmatic alternative.
Fulvifomes parviungulatus (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota), a new species from China based on morphological and molecular evidence
Authors: JI XIAO-HONG , HE GANG , SUN QI-BIAO , CHEN YE
Published: March 2024

Fulvifomes parviungulatus sp. nov. is described and illustrated from China based on morphological characters and phylogenetic analyses. The sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and nuclear-encoded large subunit rRNA gene (28S) were employed. Fulvifomes parviungulatus is characterized by the perennial, small and ungulate basidiocarps, crusted, smooth pileal surface, 4–5 pores per mm with thick dissepiments, a dimitic hyphal system with interwoven skeletal hyphae, absence of ventricose cystidioles, collapsed hymenium in the studied material and ellipsoid, yellowish brown, thick-walled, smooth basidiospores measuring 4.2–4.7 × 3.5–4 μm. The new species was compared with its related taxa and a molecular study supports it with in the genus of Fulvifomes.
Mental health messages on TikTok: Analysing the use of emotional appeals in health-related #EduTok videos
Authors: Jerin Sultana Ismet , O’Donnell Nicole , Mu Di
Published: March 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate how health educators use emotional appeals on the social media site TikTok to promote well-being, engage audiences and reduce mental health stigma.

Design/Method:

Our research team conducted a quantitative content analysis of 400 TikTok videos centred on health education. We evaluated the frequency of mental health content compared with general health education content and associated views, engagement and use of emotional appeals.

Results:

Mental health content frequently appeared in #EduTok health videos and earned significantly greater reach than general health content. However, videos discussing mental health earned less engagement and relied less on emotional appeals. Mental health content mainly relied on affiliation, hope and sorrow message appeals, although the presence of these appeals did not significantly affect engagement. General health content utilised personal stories, expert credentials and emotional appeals more frequently than mental health content.

Conclusion:

Evidence from this research suggests that mental health educational content underperforms general health videos and underutilises emotional appeals on TikTok. Health educators must critically analyse and adjust message strategies to enhance audience reception, taking note of success across health topics. We discuss the implications for how practitioners can use TikTok to reduce stigma and promote positive mental health with emotionally engaging content, especially among young audiences.
Envisioning Emerging Research  Trends on Impact of COVID-19 on Indian Economy: A Bibliometric  Study Applying Latent Semantic Analysis and Text Mining Technique
Authors: Misra Pooja , Gupta Jaya
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic ignited an unprecedented emergency for countries across the globe. The twin threats to lives and livelihood caused due to the pandemic brought severe ramifications to the Indian economy. The labour market faced the brunt exponentially, and the same is evident from the extensive research studies undertaken in this realm. A large volume of research has been published in this domain analysing the impact of COVID-19. This bibliometric study presents the dominant areas of current research upon analysing the extant literature on the economic impact of the pandemic. The study identifies prevalent topics and themes mapped from the existing knowledge base by applying natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning. The study proposes areas for further research.

JEL Codes: I1, I3, E7 1, E2
A non-contact method for weighting of aggregate pile based on binocular vision
Authors: Su Chang , Li Ziqiang , Wei Zhongliang , Xu Naizhong , Yuan Quan
Published: March 2024

Concrete is indispensable in contemporary industry, and the weighing of aggregates directly determines the quality of concrete preparation. In response to the difficulty of traditional methods in meeting the industrial requirements for accuracy, efficiency, and cost of measurement, this paper proposes a non-contact bone pile weight measurement method based on binocular vision. Firstly, the on-site image is obtained through a binocular camera, and the camera parameters are used to improve the image edge information and preprocess the image. Then, the improved semi global matching (SGM) algorithm is used to improve computational efficiency, obtaining three-dimensional information of the aggregate pile for volume calculation. Based on the watershed algorithm and T-S inference, the aggregate clearance rate is calculated, and the initial volume is corrected. Finally, a linear relationship is established between the density of the aggregate pile and the clearance rate, and the weight of the aggregate pile can be obtained by the density formula. The experimental results on different sizes of aggregate piles shows that the average error of the experiment is less than 4%. Efficiency of improved SGM matching algorithm has increased several times compared to the original algorithm, providing a low-cost and efficient measurement method for industrial aggregate weighing.
Profile of Chinese Cluster Headache Register Individual Study (CHRIS): Clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment status data of 816 patients in China
Authors: Zhang Shuhua , Xu Suiyi , Chen Chunfu , Xue Zhanyou , Yao Yuanrong , Zhao Hongru , Zhao Hongling , Ji Yabin , Wang Dan , Hu Dongmei , Liu Kaiming , Chen Jianjun , Chen Sufen , Gao Xiaoyu , Gui Wei , Fan Zhiliang , Wan Dongjun , Yuan Xueqian , Qu Wensheng , Xiao Zheman , Dong Ming , Wang Hebo , Ju Chunyang , Xu Huifang , Zhang Liang , Wang Xiaolin , Zhang Mingjie , Han Xun , Ran Ye , Jia Zhihua , Su Hui , Li Yingji , Liu Huanxian , Zhao Wei , Gong Zihua , Lin Xiaoxue , Liu Yingyuan , Sun Yin , Xie Siyuan , Zhai Deqi , Liu Ruozhuo , Wang Shengshu , Dong Zhao , Yu Shengyuan ,   on behalf of the Chinese Cluster Headache Alliance (CCHA), Liu Zhonglin , Wang Yanhong , Li Li , Wang Zhe , Mei Li , Xu Peng , Yu Haiyan , Liu Yang , Chen Min , Liu Rui , He Weiliang , Yang Jiajun , Tan Ge , Li Jiasi , Zhang Dan , Li Xianliang , Man Yuhong , Li Lin , He Yusheng , Ren Zhanxiu , Wang Xiaojuan , Zhang Jie , An Xingkai , Zhang Zhongling , Zhang Jing , Liu Yonghui , Zhang Yi , Gu Qun , Wang Lijuan , Qiu Shi , Cai Haiyan , Yan Lanyun , Hu Nana , Huang Chun , Yin Mei , Zhang Ran , Yi Juan , Chen Fang , Gao Qiaolin , Wang Yi , Zhang Zengqiang , Qin Yunqing , Hao Yu , Zhang Qi , Song Yongbin , Xue Hui , Feng Peng , Shao Wei , Li Mingxin , Huang Chenmin , Chen Weian , Tong Qiuling
Published: March 2024

Background

The clinical profile of cluster headache may differ among different regions of the world, warranting interest in the data obtained from the initial Chinese Cluster Headache Register Individual Study (CHRIS) for better understanding.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, prospective, longitudinal cohort study on cluster headache across all 31 provinces of China, aiming to gather clinical characteristics, treatment approaches, imaging, electrophysiological and biological samples.

Results

In total 816 patients were enrolled with a male-to-female ratio of 4.33:1. The mean age at consultation was 34.98 ± 9.91 years, and 24.89 ± 9.77 years at onset. Only 2.33% were diagnosed with chronic cluster headache, and 6.99% had a family history of the condition. The most common bout was one to two times per year (45.96%), lasting two weeks to one month (44.00%), and occurring frequently in spring (76.23%) and winter (73.04%). Of these, 68.50% experienced one to two attacks per day, with the majority lasting one to two hours (45.59%). The most common time for attacks was between 9 am and 12 pm (75.86%), followed by 1 am and 3 am (43.48%). Lacrimation (78.80%) was the most predominant autonomic symptom reported. Furthermore, 39.22% of patients experienced a delay of 10 years or more in receiving a correct diagnosis. Only 35.67% and 24.26% of patients received common acute and preventive treatments, respectively.

Conclusion

Due to differences in ethnicity, genetics and lifestyle conditions, CHRIS has provided valuable baseline data from China. By establishing a dynamic cohort with comprehensive multidimensional data, it aims to advance the management system for cluster headache in China.
Investigations of the migraine-provoking effect of levcromakalim in patients with migraine with aura
Authors: Thomsen Andreas Vinther , Al-Karagholi Mohammad Al-Mahdi , Hougaard Anders , Ostrowski Sisse Rye , Pedersen Ole Birger , Hansen Thomas Folkmann , Ashina Messoud
Published: March 2024

Background/Hypothesis

Experimental provocation studies have yielded important insights in migraine pathophysiology. Levcromakalim has been previously shown to induce migraine-like attacks with and without aura. In this study, we aim to further explore the migraine aura-inducing potential of levcromakalim.

Methods

In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over study, 27 adult participants with migraine with aura received intravenous infusions of levcromakalim and saline. Headache, aura and associated symptoms were evaluated for 24 hours following administration of the study drug. The primary endpoint was occurrence of migraine-like attacks with or without aura in the 24-hour observation period.

Results

Thirteen participants developed migraine-like attacks on the active day only (P = 0.0098), and four participants developed aura on the active day only (P = 0.68). The median time to onset of migraine-like headache was three hours, and the median time to onset of aura was 27.5 minutes.

Conclusion/Interpretation

Our findings affirm the potent migraine-inducing effect of levcromakalim. We observed a lower induction-rate of migraine aura than previously reported. Further studies are warranted to identify predictors of migraine aura following levcromakalim.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier

NCT04905654
Dynamics of Economic Growth and Health Outcomes Among the Northern States of India: A Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Para Irshad Ahmad , Alam Tosib
Published: March 2024

This article shows the relationship between health outcomes and economic growth for the period of 2002–2020 among the northern states of India. By using pooled ordinary least squares, fixed effect and random effect model, the study examines the impact of infant mortality, birth rate and death rate on gross state domestic product per capita at a constant price. The study takes gross capital formation and gross enrolment ratio as control variables. Data from the Reserve Bank of India and EPWRF states of India were retrieved and used in the study. The result shows that health outcomes and economic growth have a relatively substantial and significant association with each other. The results demonstrate that economic growth increases by 1% with a decrease in infant mortality rate by its elasticity coefficient –0.32. The results show that economic growth will increase by 1% with the increase in birth rate, gross enrolment ratio and gross fixed capital formation by its slope coefficients, that is, 0.10, 0.32 and 1.78 which are statistically significant at 1%, 5% and 1% level of significance. The finding of the study demonstrates that health outcomes remain a vital determinant in improving economic growth among the northern states. Our results advocate that the government spending on health should be improved; moreover, the government should frame health policies to boost health outcomes to level the disparities in health outcomes among the northern states of India.
Individual and Organizational Factors Associated With Intent to Leave the Job and Public Child Welfare Field Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hoffmeister Michael R. , Slack Kristen S.
Published: March 2024

The public child welfare system is plagued with high turnover, which is consistently associated with job-related stress. However, the COVID-19 pandemic introduced challenges that impact both the work and caseworkers’ decision to stay in their job. To better understand stressors and intention to stay amid the COVID-19 pandemic, one state-level agency implemented a survey, completed by forty-eight percent of public child welfare caseworkers in the state. The current analysis employs multinomial logistic regression to predict intention to stay in the job and in the field and narrative analysis to describe caseworker experiences. Expanding on prior research, findings suggest that caseworker perception of an organization’s response to COVID-19 challenges is associated with a caseworker’s intent to leave. Further, this study highlights the distinction in commitment to the field compared to commitment to one’s job, introduces challenges associated with work during the COVID-19 pandemic, and describes worker-identified benefits of those work changes.
Depression and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in mothers 6 weeks to 12 months post-delivery in a rural setting in Kenya
Authors: Mutiso Victoria N. , Musyimi Christine W. , Gitonga Isaiah , Tele Albert , Ndetei David M.
Published: March 2024

Using a cohort of 544 postpartum mothers, 6 weeks to 12 months post-delivery in the largely rural Makueni County in Kenya, we aimed to determine: (1) the prevalence of postpartum depression (PPD) and the prevalence of each of the four domains of intimate partner violence (IPV), that is physical violence, sexual violence, emotional violence, and controlling behavior; (2) the co-occurrence of PPD and IPV; (3) risk factors and associations between sociodemographic variables and IPV, PPD and IPV and PPD co-occurring. We concurrently administered a researcher-designed sociodemographic ad hoc questionnaire, the WHO Intimate Partner Violence questionnaire and the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview for adults (MINI Plus) for DSM-IV/ICD10 depression. The prevalence of PPD was 14.5%; Emotional violence 80.3%; Controlling behavior 74.4% (a form of emotional violence); Physical violence 40.3%; Sexual violence 28.9%. We found the following overlaps: 39% of participants reported both physical and emotional violence; 39% had both sexual and emotional violence; 15% experienced physical and sexual violence; and 15% of participants reported physical, sexual, and emotional violence. Postpartum depression was associated with physical violence during pregnancy, self-employed status, history of mood disorders and medical problems in the child. Further, we report associations between various types of IPV and history of depression, physical violence during pregnancy, low education level, marital status, and current depression diagnosis. IPV and PPD were highly prevalent in our population of postpartum mothers. Various types of IPV were significantly associated with various sociodemographic indicators while only sexual violence was significantly associated with PPD. Based on our results, we provide suggestions for potential interventions in the Kenyan setting.
A Bayesian method for addressing multinomial misclassification with applications for alcohol epidemiological modeling
Authors: Parish William J. , Aldridge Arnie , van Hasselt Martijn
Published: March 2024

In this article, we describe a new command, bamm, that implements a Bayesian method for addressing misclassification in multinomial data; see Swartz et al. (2004, Canadian Journal of Statistics 32: 285–302). We also describe a postestimation command, bammdx, that was developed to provide additional estimation diagnostics. We describe the method and the new commands and then present results from both a simulation study demonstrating bamm’s performance under a known misclassification data-generating process and an empirical example from alcohol epidemiology modeling.
‘Wellbeing’ and the production of disability in the university: Erasure, effacement and institutional exceptionalism
Authors: Orchard Vivienne , Jones Eleanor K
Published: March 2024

This article uses ‘wellbeing’ as deployed within UK higher education as a starting point for examining the relationship between disability and the university. We explore various strands of scholarship that seek to critique wellbeing, universities, and/or connections between disability and these institutions. Work on ‘wellbeing’ identifies the harmful logics underpinning its political appropriation, but erases disability by declining to consider it as political experience. Critiques of the university efface disability by considering disablement only insofar as it affects the non-disabled, and reify ‘intellect’ as neutral entity and sole true purview of higher education. Work on the political economy of disability exposes crucial connections between disability and capitalism, and the role of economic and political institutions in upholding them, but relies on a distinction between worker and surplus that cannot reckon with institutional complexity. Finally, scholarship that directly confronts the university as disabling institution accounts for complexity, but hinges on an ultimately utopian vision of the university as an exceptional, salvageable space, neglecting key mechanisms by which it continues to marginalise disabled people. We suggest that reaching a fuller understanding of the university as producing disability must involve moving away from this exceptionalism and toward dialogue with critiques of other institutions.
Probiotics ameliorate endocrine disorders via modulating inflammatory pathways: a systematic review
Authors: Nemati Marzieh , Ebrahimi Bahareh , Montazeri-Najafabady Nima
Published: March 2024

Probiotics has offered a new prospect to treat and manage a variety of endocrine disorders such as obesity, diabetes, non- alcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic syndrome. The precise mechanisms by which probiotics exert their beneficial effects on endocrine disorders and its associated problems are still indecisive. It seems that regulating the immune system and suppressing pro-inflammatory pathways like tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 or triggering anti-inflammatory pathways like interleukin-4 and 10 may be one of the potential mechanisms in the managing of endocrine disorders. In this systematic review, we hypothesized that various probiotic strains (Lactobacillus, Biofidiobacteria, Streptococcus, Entrococcus, Clostridium, and Bacillus) alone or in combination with each other could manage endocrine disorders via modulating inflammatory pathways such as suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, TNF-β, NFκB, and MCP-1), stimulating anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4,IL-6, IL-22, IL-23, IL-33, and TGF-β) and maintaining other factors like C-reactive protein, Toll like receptors, LPS, and NK cells. Data source this search was performed in PubMed and Scopus. Both human and animal studies were included. Among more than 15,000 papers, 25 studies were identified as eligible for more assessments. Quality assessment of the studies was cheeked by two researchers independently by title and abstract screening, then article which have inclusion criteria were included, and data retrieved from the included full text studies as the authors had originally reported. Results specified that Lactobacillus has been the most widely used probiotic as well as which one exhibiting the extend of the therapeutic effects on endocrine disorders, especially obesity by modulating immune responses. Also, most studies have revealed that probiotics through suppressing pro-inflammatory pathways specially via reducing levels TNF-α cytokine exhibited protective or beneficial effects on endocrine diseases particularly obesity as well as through decreasing level of IL-6 induced therapeutic effects in diabetes. This systematic review suggests that probiotics could ameliorate endocrine disorders via their immunomodulatory effects.
The efficacy and safety of modified ultraearly oral hydration for alleviating thirst in patients after thoracoscopic surgery: a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xue Yan , Wang Qian , Zhao Hongyu , Pan Ren , Xia Yanfei , Wang Hongmei , Qin Xiarong
Published: March 2024

Objective

Postoperative fasting following thoracoscopic surgery can cause intense thirst and oral discomfort. However, there is currently no research on ultraearly oral hydration (UEOH) in middle-aged or elderly patients after thoracoscopic surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness and safety of UEOH for improving oral discomfort after thoracoscopic surgery.

Methods

This single-center prospective double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted from April 2022 to November 2023. A total of 64 middle-aged and elderly patients who underwent the first thoracoscopic surgery on the day were enrolled at our institution. Postoperatively, in the Postanesthesia Care Unit (PACU), patients were randomly assigned at a 1:1 ratio to either the UEOH group or the standard care (SC) group. The primary outcome was the patient’s thirst score at 6 h after surgery. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of postoperative oral discomfort; pain scores; the occurrence of adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting, regurgitation and aspiration; anxiety scores on the first postoperative day; the time to first flatus; and recovery satisfaction scores.

Results

The demographic and surgical characteristics were similar between the two groups. Patients in the UEOH group had lower thirst scores 6 h after surgery than did those in the SC group(16.1 ± 6.70 vs. 78.4 ± 8.42, P < 0.01). The incidence of postoperative oral discomfort (P < 0.01), anxiety scores on the first postoperative day (P<0.05), and time to first flatus (P<0.05) were better in the UEOH group. Additionally, the incidences of adverse reactions, such as postoperative nausea, vomiting, regurgitation and aspiration, were similar between the two groups (P>0.05).

Conclusion

For middle-aged and elderly patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery, the use of a modified UEOH protocol postoperatively can improve thirst and promote gastrointestinal recovery without increasing complications.

Trial registration

This single-center, prospective, RCT has completed the registration of the Chinese Clinical Trial Center at 07/12/2023 with the registration number ChiCTR2300078425.
CAVI (Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index) as an independent predictor of hypertensive response to exercise
Authors: Wuttichaipradit C. , Yodwut C. , Sukhum P. , Hengrussamee K. , Treesong M. , Thiangtham S. , Samut B. , Tunhasiriwet A. , Yingchoncharoen T.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Hypertensive response to exercise (HRE) is related to the development of future hypertension, cardiovascular morbidity, and mortality, independent of resting blood pressure. We hypothesized that arterial stiffness as measured by cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) could be an independent predictor of HRE.

Materials and methods

Retrospective chart review of patients participated in the preventive health program at the Bangkok Heart Hospital who underwent both CAVI and treadmill stress testing on the same day between June and December 2018 were performed. Variables for the prediction of HRE were analyzed using univariate analysis, and significant variables were entered into multiple logistic regression. An ROC curve was created to test the sensitivity and specificity of CAVI as a predictor of HRE.

Results

A total of 285 participants (55.1% female) were enrolled in this study. There were 58 patients (20.4%) who met the HRE definition (SBP > 210 mmHg in males, SBP > 190 mmHg in females, or DBP > 110 mmHg in both males and females), with a mean age of 46.4 12.8 years. In univariate analysis, age, systolic blood pressure at rest, diastolic blood pressure at rest, pulse pressure at rest, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, history of beta-blocker, and CAVI results were statistically significant. Multiple logistic regression revealed that CAVI and systolic blood pressure were statistically significant predictors of HRE with OR of 5.8, 95%CI: 2.9–11.7, P < 0.001 and OR 1.07, 95%CI: 1.03–1.10, P = 0.001 respectively. ROC curve analysis of the CAVI revealed an AUC of 0.827 (95%CI: 0.76–0.89, p < 0.001), and the sensitivity and specificity of cut-point CAVI > 8 were 53% and 92%, respectively.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that CAVI is an independent predictor of hypertensive response to exercise. Additionally, the findings suggest that CAVI > 8 can be a valuable tool in identifying individuals at risk for hypertensive responses during exercise.
Pan-cancer analysis of NUP155 and validation of its role in breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis
Authors: Wang Zi-qiong , Wu Zhi-xuan , Wang Zong-pan , Bao Jing-xia , Wu Hao-dong , Xu Di-yan , Li Hong-feng , Xu Yi-Yin , Wu Rong-xing , Dai Xuan-xuan
Published: March 2024

NUP155is reported to be correlated with tumor development. However, the role ofNUP155in tumor physiology and the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) has not been previously examined. This study comprehensively investigated the expression, immunological function, and prognostic significance ofNUP155in different cancer types. Bioinformatics analysis revealed thatNUP155was upregulated in 26 types of cancer. Additionally,NUP155upregulation was strongly correlated with advanced pathological or clinical stages and poor prognosis in several cancers. Furthermore,NUP155was significantly and positively correlated with DNA methylation, tumor mutational burden, microsatellite instability, and stemness score in most cancers. Additionally,NUP155was also found to be involved in TIME and closely associated with tumor infiltrating immune cells and immunoregulation-related genes. Functional enrichment analysis revealed a strong correlation betweenNUP155and immunomodulatory pathways, especially antigen processing and presentation. The role ofNUP155in breast cancer has not been examined. This study, for the first time, demonstrated thatNUP155was upregulated in breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA) cells and revealed its oncogenic role in BRCA using molecular biology experiments. Thus, our study highlights the potential value ofNUP155as a biomarker in the assessment of prognostic prediction, tumor microenvironment and immunotherapeutic response in pan-cancer.
The effect of corneal power on the accuracy of 14 IOL power formulas
Authors: Xu Jialin , Zhang Lu , Mo Er , Zhu Kaiyi , Zhu Yitong , Feng Ke , Wu Zunting , Zheng Yangran , Huang Fang , Gong Xianhui , Li Jin
Published: March 2024

Background

This study evaluates the impact of corneal power on the accuracy of 14 newer intraocular lens (IOL) calculation formulas in cataract surgery. The aim is to assess how these formulas perform across different corneal curvature ranges, thereby guiding more precise IOL selection.

Methods

In this retrospective case series, 336 eyes from 336 patients who underwent cataract surgery were studied. The cohort was divided into three groups according to preoperative corneal power. Key metrics analyzed included mean prediction error (PE), standard deviation of PE (SD), mean absolute prediction error (MAE), median absolute error (MedAE), and the percentage of eyes with PE within ± 0.25 D, 0.50 D, ± 0.75 D, ± 1.00 D and ± 2.00 D.

Results

In the flat K group (Km < 43 D), VRF-G, Emmetropia Verifying Optical Version 2.0 (EVO2.0), Kane, and Hoffer QST demonstrated lower SDs (± 0.373D, ± 0.379D, ± 0.380D, ± 0.418D, respectively) compared to the VRF formula (all P < 0.05). EVO2.0 and K6 showed significantly different SDs compared to Barrett Universal II (BUII) (all P < 0.02). In the medium K group (43 D ≤ Km < 46 D), VRF-G, BUII, Karmona, K6, EVO2.0, Kane, and Pearl-DGS recorded lower MAEs (0.307D to 0.320D) than Olsen (OLCR) and Castrop (all P < 0.03), with RBF3.0 having the second lowest MAE (0.309D), significantly lower than VRF and Olsen (OLCR) (all P < 0.05). In the steep K group (Km ≥ 46D), RBF3.0, K6, and Kane achieved significantly lower MAEs (0.279D, 0.290D, 0.291D, respectively) than Castrop (all P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The study highlights the varying accuracy of newer IOL formulas based on corneal power. VRF-G, EVO2.0, Kane, K6, and Hoffer QST are highly accurate for flat corneas, while VRF-G, RBF3.0, BUII, Karmona, K6, EVO2.0, Kane, and Pearl-DGS are recommended for medium K corneas. In steep corneas, RBF3.0, K6, and Kane show superior performance.
Spanish validation of the short version of the racing and crowded thoughts questionnaire (RCTQ-13)
Authors: Rodríguez Daniela Garcés , Zapata-Ospina Juan Pablo , Uribe María Mercedes , Suarez Diana , Tabares Luis Fernando , Ahunca Luisa Fernanda , Aguirre Daniel Camilo , Holguín Jorge Carlos , Valencia Jenny García
Published: March 2024

Background

The Racing and Crowded Thoughts Questionnaire (RCTQ-13) is the most widely used specific scale for the measurement of racing thoughts, but there is currently no Spanish version that allow the evaluation in Spanish-speaking patients. The objective of this study is to translate, adapt, and validate the RCTQ-13 in a Colombian population with affective disorders.

Methods

The questionnaire was translated and back-translated, and corrections were implemented following a pilot test to improve comprehensibility. We included patients with Bipolar I Disorder and with Major depressive disorder seen in three centers in the city of Medellín, Colombia. We evaluate structural validity with confirmatory factor analysis, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. Construct validity was also assessed with the comparison between euthymic, maniac, and depressive episodes and the correlation with worry, rumination, and mania scales. Responsiveness was measured 1 month after the first evaluation. Based on item response theory (IRT), we also estimated item difficulty, discrimination, and fit using a generalized partial credit model.

Results

Two hundred fifty subjects were included. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the three-factor structure of the scale was appropriate. Internal consistency was adequate for the entire scale (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.94-0.96) and for each factor. Test-retest reliability was good (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.82, 95%IC: 0.70-0.88). For construct validity, we observed differences between patients with different types of affective episodes, a moderate positive correlation with the Penn State Worry Scale (r = 0.55) and the Ruminative Response Scale (r = 0.42), and a low negative correlation with the Young Mania Rating Scale (r = − 0.10). Responsiveness was proved to be adequate. Under IRT, the response thresholds for the response options are organized for all items. The infit was adequate for all items and the outfit was acceptable.

Conclusions

The Spanish version of the RCTQ-13 is a reliable, valid, and responsive scale and can be used for the clinical assessment of the construct of racing and crowded thoughts in patients with the spectrum of affective disorders in whom this experience can be expressed with different nuances. Further research is needed to expand the relationship with rumination and worry.
Sickle cell trait in São Tomé e Príncipe: a population-based prevalence study in women of reproductive age
Authors: Queiroz Guilherme , Monteiro Celdidy , Manco Licínio , Relvas Luís , Trovoada Maria de Jesus , Leite Andreia , Bento Celeste
Published: March 2024

Background

Sickle Cell Disorder is Africa’s most prevalent genetic disease. Yet, it remains a neglected condition, with high mortality under-five, and a lack of population-based studies in the region. This is the first of its kind in São Tomé e Príncipe, aiming to estimate the prevalence of sickle cell trait and other haemoglobin variants in women of reproductive age and its associated factors.

Methods

We conducted a cluster survey in 35 neighbourhoods. Haemoglobin was assessed through point-of-care capillary electrophoresis or high-performance liquid chromatography, and sociodemographic data through questionnaires. The weighted prevalence of sickle cell trait (HbAS) and HbC carriers was estimated with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI). We calculated weighted prevalence ratios (95% CI) through robust Poisson regression for its association with age and individual and collective genetic heritage.

Findings

The prevalence of sickle cell trait in women of reproductive age in São Tomé e Príncipe (n = 376) was 13.45% (95% CI: 9.05-19.00). The prevalence of HbC carriers was 8.00% (95% CI: 4.71-12.00). Older age and speaking Forro or Angolar were positively associated with having sickle cell trait.

Interpretation

The prevalence of sickle cell trait in São Tomé e Príncipe ranks high in the West African region. The country should follow international guidelines, implementing newborn screening and comprehensive healthcare management.
Adolescents’ understanding of the Nepalese version of HLS-CHILD-Q15: qualitative pre-testing in ninth-graders
Authors: Khanal Shanti Prasad , Budhathoki Chitra Bahadur , Devkota Bhimsen , Bollweg Torsten Michael , Okan Orkan
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Research on health literacy is still at an early stage, lacking a dedicated measurement instrument for assessing children’s and adolescents’ health literacy. Such tools are necessary to generate the evidence required for informed intervention development. This study translated the validated German HLS-Child-Q15 into the Nepalese context, creating the HLS-Child-Q22-NEP.

Methods

The research team initially created the HLS-Child-Q22-NEP using an additional item pool. We conducted thirteen one-on-one cognitive interviews with adolescent students from community schools in three districts of Nepal during the pre-test. We employed verbal probing techniques and deductively analysed the interviews based on Tourneau’s model, uncovering four main themes: (1) comprehension (with the two sub-categories: a) item comprehension and b) word comprehension); (2) retrieval; (3) judgement; and (4) response.

Results

Overall, participants responded positively to the HLS-Child-Q22-NEP. However, this study revealed comprehension challenges such as unfamiliarity, misunderstandings, and translation issues. Additionally, the study identified retrieval challenges and poor judgement, indicating limitations in the assessment. Participants experienced varying levels of difficulty with some items, emphasising the need for revised instructions. Subsequent revisions, guided by pretest insights, led to the development of the HLS-Child-Q24-NEP.

Conclusion

The development of the HLS-Child-Q22-NEP is a significant step in addressing Nepali adolescents’ lack of health literacy measurement. Despite its generally positive reception, this study encountered challenges in comprehending the scale, prompting enhancements, and developing the HLS-Child-Q24-NEP. Further research, both qualitative and quantitative, is necessary to evaluate the validity and reliability of the modified items.
Safety and efficacy of day anterior cervical discectomy and fusion procedure for degenerative cervical spondylosis: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Tang Long , Chen Yu , Wang Fandong , Liu Yuanbin , Song Zhaojun , Wang Miao , Zhou Yong , Liu Huiyi , Zheng Jiazhuang
Published: March 2024

Objective

Our study aimed to develop a day anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedure to treat degenerative cervical spondylosis (DCS). The goal was to analyze its clinical implications, safety, and early effects to provide a better surgical option for eligible DCS patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed to identify DCS patients who underwent day ACDF from September 2022 to August 2023. The operative time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage, preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) scores, neck disability index (NDI) scores, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores, JOA recovery rate (RR), incidence of dysphagia-related symptoms, 30-day hospital readmission rate, and incidence of other complications were recorded to evaluate early clinical outcomes. Radiography was performed to assess the location of the implants, neurological decompression, and cervical physiological curvature.

Results

All 33 patients (23 women and 10 men) underwent successful surgery and experienced significant symptomatic and neurological improvements. Among them, 26 patients underwent one-segment ACDF, 5 underwent two-segment ACDF, and 2 underwent three-segment ACDF. The average operative time was 71.1 ± 20.2 min, intraoperative blood loss was 19.1 ± 6.2 mL, and postoperative drainage was 9.6 ± 5.8 mL. The preoperative VAS and NDI scores improved postoperatively (7.1 ± 1.2 vs. 3.1 ± 1.3 and 66.7% ± 4.8% vs. 24.1% ± 2.5%, respectively), with a significant difference (P < 0.01). Moreover, the preoperative JOA scores improved significantly postoperatively (7.7 ± 1.3 vs. 14.2 ± 1.4; P < 0.01) with an RR of 93.9% in good or excellent. Postoperative dysphagia-related symptoms occurred in one patient (3.0%). During the follow-up period, no patient was readmitted within 30 days after discharge; however, an incisional hematoma was reported in one patient on the 6th day after discharge, which was cured by pressure dressing. The postoperative radiographs revealed perfect implant positions and sufficient nerve decompression in all patients. Furthermore, the preoperative cervical physiological curvature improved significantly after the operation (14.5° ± 4.0° vs. 26.3° ± 5.4°; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Day ACDF has good safety and early clinical efficacy, and it could be an appropriate choice for eligible DCS patients.
Impact of clear aligner therapy on masticatory musculature and stomatognathic system: a systematic review conducted according to PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions
Authors: Almalki Sultan Abdulrahman , Al Jameel AlBandary Hassan , Gowdar Inderjit Murugendrappa , Langaliya Akshayraj , Vaddamanu Sunil Kumar , Di Blasio Marco , Cervino Gabriele , Minervini Giuseppe
Published: March 2024

Background

Clear aligner therapy has gained popularity as a minimally invasive orthodontic treatment option. However, its impact on the masticatory musculature and the stomatognathic system is an area of growing interest, as it involves the adjustment of occlusion and tooth movement. This systematic review aims to comprehensively assess and synthesise existing evidence regarding the influence of clear aligner therapy on the masticatory musculature and the stomatognathic system.

Methods

An exhaustive search was performed on electronic databases that adhered to PRISMA guidelines. Clinical studies that evaluated the impact of patients receiving aligner orthodontic treatment on the muscles of the mastication and stomatognathic systems were included. A standardised data extraction form was devised for relevant variables. Two reviewers extracted the data variables. ROB-2 was used for bias evaluation in the selected studies.

Results

A total of six studies met the inclusion criteria. The wearing of clear aligners significantly impacted the muscles of mastication. Muscle activity and discomfort showed a significant alteration in the initial days of appliance placement. but this observation was temporary, with no significant changes thereafter in subsequent follow-up. Bite force reduction was also noted. All the studies evaluated showed good methodological quality.

Conclusion

The review found that aligned orthodontic treatment may have a variable impact on muscles of mastication, with a potential for initial exacerbation of symptoms followed by possible improvement. However, due to the limited number of studies and their heterogeneous nature, further robust research is recommended to fully understand the relationship between aligned orthodontic treatment and masticatory muscles.
The role of a community conversation intervention in reducing stigma related to lower limb lymphoedema in Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Tora Abebayehu , Bremner Stephen , Ali Oumer , Kinfe Mersha , Mengiste Asrat , Anagnostopoulou Vasso , Fekadu Abebaw , Davey Gail , Semrau Maya
Published: March 2024

Background

Stigma related to lower-limb lymphoedema poses a major psychosocial burden to affected persons and acts as a barrier to them accessing morbidity management and disability prevention (MMDP) services. Community Conversation (CC), which actively engages community members and disseminates health information amongst them, is believed to break the vicious cycle of stigma by enhancing disease-related health literacy at the community level.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study was conducted in Northern Ethiopia to assess the role of the CC intervention in reducing stigma. In two control districts, a comprehensive and holistic MMDP care package was implemented that included physical health, mental health and psychosocial interventions, whilst in the intervention district the CC intervention was added to the MMDP care package. A total of 289 persons affected by lymphoedema and 1659 community members without lymphoedema were included in the study.

Results

Over the course of the intervention, in all sites, community members’ knowledge about the causes of lymphoedema increased, and perceived social distance and stigmatizing attitudes towards people with lymphoedema decreased in the community, whilst experienced and internalized stigma decreased amongst affected persons. There were no significant changes for perceived social support. However, the changes were greater in the control sites overall, i.e. those districts in which the holistic care package was implemented without CC.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that the CC intervention provides no additional stigma reduction when used alongside a holistic MMDP care package. Provision of comprehensive and holistic MMDP services may be adequate and appropriate to tackle stigma related to lower-limb lymphoedema in a resource-constrained setting like Ethiopia.
Higher ultra-processed food intake is associated with an increased incidence risk of cardiovascular disease: the Tehran lipid and glucose study
Authors: Jalali Mohammad , Bahadoran Zahra , Mirmiran Parvin , Khalili Davood , Symonds Michael E. , Azizi Fereidoun , Faghih Shiva
Published: March 2024

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of death worldwide, although limited data are currently available regarding the impact of consuming ultra-processed food (UPF) on its incidence. Given the increased consumption of UPF in Iran, we aimed to investigate the association between UPF intake and CVD risk.

Methods

Individuals without CVD (n = 2050) aged ≥ 30 years old were recruited from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS). Dietary data were collected using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and UPF intakes were assessed based on the Nova food classification. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for potential confounders were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for the risk of CVD across tertiles of UPF intake.

Results

A 10.1% incidence of CVD occurred over a median follow-up of 10.6 years, with a 22% increase in CVD risk per each 50 g/day UPF intake. Participants with the highest intake of UPF had a 68% greater incidence of CVD compared to those with the lowest intake (HR = 1.68, 95% CI=1.14–2.48) after controlling for potential confounders. Regarding sub-groups of UPF, participants in the 3rd tertile compared to the reference had a significantly increased risk of CVD (HR = 1.56, 95% CI=1.04–2.34). Nevertheless, intake of bread, fast food, sweetened beverages, sweets and desserts, high-fat dairy products, and other UPFs were not associated with greater CVD risk.

Conclusion

Our findings support the hypothesis that the incidence of CVD is enhanced with the higher consumption of UPF in a representative sample of the Iranian population.
Recognition and management of left atrial dissection during mitral repair
Authors: Alshaabi Haya , Donaghue Jack F. , Franko Denise M. , McCullough Jock N.
Published: March 2024

Background

Left atrial dissection (LAtD) is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of mitral valve surgery. Its management is not well stablished in the literature. However, early recognition through intraoperative TEE and attention to changes in the left atrial free wall during saline leak testing can lead to avoidance of severe complications.

Case presentation

We report a case of LAtD detected by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) following mitral valve repair for primary mitral valve regurgitation secondary to degenerative mitral valve disease with MAZE IV procedure for atrial fibrillation. LAtD was noted on TEE as an expanding double density along the wall of the left atrium with a jet originating at the posterior annulus flowing into the LAtD which was repaired. Separation from bypass following LAtD repair was complicated by severe biventricular dysfunction requiring significant inotropic support and placement of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP). Patient’s post-operative course was further complicated by right sided heart failure requiring placement of a right sided impella which was subsequently removed on POD 4. Patient was discharged home on POD 17. Transthoracic echo at 1 month, 3 months demonstrated resolution of the LAtD. A follow up echo at 4 years showed complete resolution of the LAtD with an intact mitral repair, trace mitral regurgitation, and a mean gradient across the repair of 3 mm Hg.

Conclusions

Left atrial dissection is a rare but serious complication of mitral valve surgery. We provide a review of the current literature regarding LAtD, emphasizing the need to consider this complication early during mitral surgery to allow for uncomplicated repair.