bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extent and Intensity of Suicidal Ideation and Planning in Patients Presenting With Psychiatric Emergencies
Authors: Jongkind Matthias , Braam Arjan W. , van den Brink Bart , Shea Shawn Christopher
Published: May 2024

Background

In emergency psychiatry high levels of suicidality are encountered. However, empirical studies about the extent of suicidal ideation remain scarce, and data are often gathered retrospectively via medical records. The present observational study aims to assess suicidal ideation, planning, and actions experienced by patients presenting with psychiatric emergencies.

Methods

In a consecutive sample of 136 patients, a standard psychiatric examination including the Chronological Assessment of Suicide Events (CASE Approach) was completed. An evaluative monitoring form for the CASE Approach was designed to record and quantify the garnered information.

Results

Almost 60% of the patients reported suicidal ideation with some planning. Approximately 25% had experienced over 10 hours of suicidal ideation on their worst days in the past 2 months; 27% had procured their method of choice, and another 27% had practiced a small, moderate, or serious suicide attempt.

Conclusion

Findings suggest more intense suicidality in emergency psychiatry than has been reported in previous empirical studies.
Teen sexual harassment, sexual orientation, and health in an urban setting
Authors: Bosch-Arís Mar , León-Gómez Brenda Biaani , Forcadell-Díez Lluís , Espinel-Flores Veronica , Serral Gemma , López Maria José , Vives-Cases Carmen , Sanz-Barbero Belén , Pérez Glòria
Published: May 2024

In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed data from the Survey of Risk Factors in a Secondary School Students (FRESC) representative survey among secondary school students aged 13 to 19 in the city of Barcelona. At all school grades, sexual harassment was more commonly reported by girls than by boys (17% of girls vs 4.2% of boys). The factors associated with sexual harassment were higher school grade, having a mental health disorder, cannabis abuse, and discrimination because of sexual orientation in girls and discrimination because of sexual orientation in boys. These findings highlight the potentially strong impact of sexual harassment on adolescents’ lives and underscore the importance of preventing this form of violence.
A feasibility study of external implementation support provided across two states in the U.S.
Authors: Roppolo Rebecca , Aldridge William , DiSalvo Christina , Everett Ariel , Banks Capri , Lawrence Sherra
Published: May 2024

Background

External implementation support (EIS) can aid implementation and scale-up efforts, but less has been reported about the experience of those receiving EIS, such as the feasibility and usability of participating in the support process.

Method

From November 2016 to April 2022, data were collected from the support participants across 13 regions in North Carolina and South Carolina implementing the Triple P system of interventions and the regional support team members who provided EIS to these partners. The experience of participating in EIS was assessed using measures of acceptability, appropriateness, accessibility, quality of delivery, feasibility, likelihood and actual use of support materials received, degree of collaboration, and frequency of contact. Mann–Whitney U tests or Kruskal–Wallis tests were conducted to explore differences in these measures across a variety of regional characteristics and contexts.

Results

Support participants generally found EIS to be accessible, acceptable, appropriate, feasible, and delivered with high quality across different states, regions, and over the course of the support relationship. Support was generally provided 1–2 times per month and collaboration between regional support teams and regional Triple P partners was rated highly significant differences between support participant experiences were generally limited to ratings of support accessibility, engagement with data collection processes, and number of monthly contacts.

Conclusions

This pattern of findings suggests that EIS as provided by regional support teams is feasible for support participants across a diversity of contexts. Additional research on EIS would help refine the field and illuminate promising practices and mechanisms of change to accelerate successful and sustainable implementation.
From online to offline: Getting ready for in-person fieldwork through social media ethnography
Authors: Proietti Luca
Published: May 2024

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant emphasis on finding solutions to continue academic research in light of closed borders. The inability to travel has prompted academic researchers to reconsider their approaches to fieldwork, with a particular focus on utilizing modern technology effectively to conduct accurate ethnographic research even while working remotely. This has entailed navigating the vast expanse of the internet carefully and acquiring additional tools in the field of ethnography. The primary concerns surrounding conducting remote fieldwork and ensuring the proper selection of data can be summarized by exploring strategies to overcome the challenges imposed by restrictions, as well as leveraging modern technology to study distant cultures without compromising comprehension. Taking into consideration my research on the Japanese experimental noise music scene and the necessity to collect information about the response and activities of these artists at the brink of the pandemic, I challenged my need to collect data by practising through the internet and modern technologies new ways to undertake ethnographic research through distance. In this sense, social networks demonstrated how modern ethnographic methods can be effectively applied to conduct functional social media ethnography, mitigating the challenges brought about by physical distance constraints. Specifically for my research, Reddit’s feature of organizing communities into subtopics named “subreddits” provides me with the possibility to keep in touch with reliable users and information by selecting specific subreddits related to Japan and music topics (e.g. “r/japaneseunderground”, “r/noisemusic”). Along with the existing literature and the constant online research for news related to my project, social media ethnography played a functional role not only in collecting relevant data but also in providing me with more clarity about how to further move my fieldwork once I can travel to Japan. By emphasizing the potential of social media as a valuable avenue to enhance research strategies in times of crisis, this paper aims to consider how online fieldwork created to overcome the impossibility of fieldwork travel can result in a profitable social media ethnography not only to collect data by distance but also to gain appropriate preparation for following in-person fieldwork by relying on our primary findings. By retracing step by step my research project on Japanese noise music, I will explain how undertaking online research provided me with further ideas to achieve more findings and add clarities to my research intent once I had to switch to offline fieldwork.
Can Law Students Replace Judges in Experiments of Judicial Decision-Making?
Authors: Spamann Holger , Klöhn Lars
Published: May 2024

Experimental research on judicial decision-making is hampered by the difficulty of recruiting judges as experimental participants. Can students be used in judges’ stead? Unfortunately, no—at least if the objective is to study legal reasoning. We ran the same high-context 2 × 2 factorial experiment of judicial decision-making focused on legal reasoning with 31 U.S. federal judges and 91 elite U.S. law students. We obtained diametrically opposed results. Judges’ decisions were strongly associated with one factor (sympathy, i.e., bias) but not the other (law). For students, it was the other way around. Equality between the two groups is strongly rejected. Equality of document-view patterns—a proxy for thought processes—and written reasons is also strongly rejected.
Filling the Void: How E.U. Privacy Law Spills Over to the U.S.
Authors: Davis Kevin E. , Marotta-Wurgler Florencia
Published: May 2024

There is mounting evidence that the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has influenced the information privacy policies and practices that firms adopt in relation to people outside of the E.U., even when that is not required by the E.U. regulation. We use a hand-coded dataset of privacy policies from firms’ U.S. and E.U.-facing websites to document and explain these kinds of international regulatory spillovers. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that spillovers are driven by the costs of complying with different standards in different parts of the same firm. In fact, 75% of the firms in our sample use the same privacy policy for their U.S. and E.U.-facing websites. At the same time, our findings do not support the conclusion that firms comply with the GDPR in their U.S.-facing privacy policies out of fear of being sanctioned if the policy is somehow applied to E.U. residents. Finally, we find that spillovers are more prevalent among firms with a physical presence in the E.U. This suggests that international networks of compliance professionals may play a significant and understudied role in regulatory compliance, perhaps by providing channels for norms and resources to move across borders.
Partisan Panel Composition and Reliance on Earlier Opinions in the Circuit Courts
Authors: Benjamin Stuart Minor , Kim ByungKoo , Quinn Kevin M.
Published: May 2024

Does the partisan composition of three-judge panels affect how earlier opinions are treated and thus how the law develops? Using a novel data set of Shepard's treatments for all cases decided in the U.S. courts of appeals from 1974 to 2017, we investigate three different versions of this question. First, are panels composed of three Democratic (Republican) appointees more likely to follow opinions decided by panels of three Democratic (Republican) appointees than are panels composed of three Republican (Democratic) appointees? Second, does the presence of a single out-party judge change how a panel relies on earlier decisions compared to what one would expect from a panel with homogeneous partisanship? Finally, does the size of these potential partisan effects change over time in a way that would be consistent with partisan polarization on the courts? We find that partisanship does, in fact, structure whether earlier opinions are followed and that these partisan effects have grown over time—particularly within the subset of cases that we believe are most likely to be ideologically salient. Since legal doctrine is developed by building upon or diminishing past opinions, these results have important implications for our understanding of the development of the law.
The Role of Judge Ideology in Strategic Retirements in U.S. Federal Courts
Authors: Deschler John , Sen Maya
Published: May 2024

The widely recognized phenomenon of federal judges retiring strategically has key implications for the composition of the judiciary, particularly given polarization between the two U.S. political parties. Using fine-grained measures of judicial ideology, we examine how ideology shapes such strategic retirements. First, we show that since Reagan’s election, Democratic appointees to lower federal courts have been more likely to retire strategically than Republican ones. Second, we find that more ideologically conservative Republican appointees are more likely to strategically retire than are moderate Republican appointees but only suggestive evidence of a similar pattern among more liberal Democratic appointees. Third, as explanation, we find that moderate Republican appointees appear to “wait out” retiring strategically under more conservative recent presidents, such as Donald Trump, opting instead to retire under Democrats such as Joe Biden. Taken together, our results offer a key insight: ideology, and not just party, can be an important factor in driving strategic retirement.
Leveraging Project ECHO to Implement a Suite of Substance Use Learning Communities for Statewide Impact
Authors: Lindsey Adrienne C. , Deem-Bolton Carma , Finley Erin , Potter Jennifer Sharpe , Lanham Holly , Fleming Sanjuana
Published: May 2024

Background:

Overdoses and alcohol consumption rose during the pandemic. However, uptake of practices which reduce mortality (eg, medications for opioid use disorder, harm reduction practices) remains insufficient. Provider training and telementoring is needed to ensure sufficient capacity for treating substance use disorders (SUDs) with evidence-based practices. The Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) model involves the use of web technologies to deliver didactic and case-based learning through a panel of experts to build such competency in a community of learners. Project ECHO was leveraged to implement a statewide telementoring center of addictions-focused ECHO programs, including programming in prescribing, harm reduction, recovery support services, collaborations with first responders, and systems-level challenges.

Methods:

Participants represented health and behavioral health disciplines practicing across the state of Texas in metropolitan and rural areas. Learners were administered: (1) an online registration form that inquired about basic demographics, (2) a post-session survey at the conclusion of each session capturing satisfaction and likelihood to implement, and (3) annual surveys measuring changes in knowledge and self-efficacy. Attendance and other learner data were stored and extracted from the partner relationship management database: iECHO.

Results:

Training programs were attended by 968 learners, with an average of 48 learners per session. Geographic reach included 47 Texas cities. Post-training survey results indicated high rates of learner satisfaction, with an average rating of 4.68 on a 5-point Likert-like scale. Annual surveys indicated improvements in provider knowledge and self-confidence across all programs.

Conclusions:

Early results indicate robust uptake, wide geographic reach, high learner satisfaction, and provider knowledge and confidence gains. This preliminary evidence supports the use of the ECHO model as a potential tool for scaling comprehensive SUD telementoring centers to meet workforce development needs over large geographic areas.
Metformin use and risk of myeloproliferative neoplasms: a Danish population–based case-control study
Authors: Kristensen Daniel Tuyet , Øvlisen Andreas Kiesbye , Jakobsen Lasse Hjort Kyneb , Severinsen Marianne Tang , Hannig Louise Hur , Starklint Jørn , Hilsøe Morten Hagemann , Vallentin Anders Pommer , Brabrand Mette , Hasselbalch Hans Carl , El-Galaly Tarec Christoffer , Roug Anne Stidsholt
Published: May 2024

Previous studies have suggested that metformin has beneficial effects beyond its glucose-lowering properties, particularly in terms of its potential as an antineoplastic and cancer-preventive agent. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association between metformin use and the risk of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). We conducted a population-based case-control study using Danish registers. Cases with MPN diagnosed between 2010 and 2018 were identified, and metformin use before the MPN diagnosis was ascertained. We compared metformin use among cases with MPN and an age- and sex-matched control group from the Danish general population to estimate age- and sex-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and fully adjusted ORs (aORs) for the association between metformin use and risk of MPN. The study population included 3816 cases and 19 080 controls. Overall, 7.0% of cases and 8.2% of controls were categorized as ever-users of metformin, resulting in an OR for MPN of 0.84 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.73-0.96) and an aOR of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.61-0.81). Long-term metformin use (≥5 years) was more infrequent and comprised 1.1% of cases and 2.0% of controls, resulting in an OR of 0.57 (95% CI, 0.42-0.79) and an aOR of 0.45 (95% CI, 0.33-0.63). A dose-response relationship was observed when cumulative duration of treatment was analyzed, and this was consistent in stratified analyses of sex, age, and MPN subtypes. In conclusion, metformin use was associated with significantly lower odds of an MPN diagnosis, indicating its potential cancer-preventive effect. Given the retrospective design, causality cannot be inferred.
Insights into the genetic architecture of Phytophthora capsici root rot resistance in chile pepper (Capsicum spp.) from multi-locus genome-wide association study
Authors: Kaur Navdeep , Lozada Dennis N. , Bhatta Madhav , Barchenger Derek W. , Khokhar Ehtisham S. , Nourbakhsh Seyed Shahabeddin , Sanogo Soum
Published: May 2024

Background

Phytophthora root rot, a major constraint in chile pepper production worldwide, is caused by the soil-borne oomycete, Phytophthora capsici. This study aimed to detect significant regions in the Capsicum genome linked to Phytophthora root rot resistance using a panel consisting of 157 Capsicum spp. genotypes. Multi-locus genome wide association study (GWAS) was conducted using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers derived from genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS). Individual plants were separately inoculated with P. capsici isolates, ‘PWB-185’, ‘PWB-186’, and ‘6347’, at the 4–8 leaf stage and were scored for disease symptoms up to 14-days post-inoculation. Disease scores were used to calculate disease parameters including disease severity index percentage, percent of resistant plants, area under disease progress curve, and estimated marginal means for each genotype.

Results

Most of the genotypes displayed root rot symptoms, whereas five accessions were completely resistant to all the isolates and displayed no symptoms of infection. A total of 55,117 SNP markers derived from GBS were used to perform multi-locus GWAS which identified 330 significant SNP markers associated with disease resistance. Of these, 56 SNP markers distributed across all the 12 chromosomes were common across the isolates, indicating association with more durable resistance. Candidate genes including nucleotide-binding site leucine-rich repeat (NBS-LRR), systemic acquired resistance (SAR8.2), and receptor-like kinase (RLKs), were identified within 0.5 Mb of the associated markers.

Conclusions

Results will be used to improve resistance to Phytophthora root rot in chile pepper by the development of Kompetitive allele-specific markers (KASP®) for marker validation, genomewide selection, and marker-assisted breeding.
International cross-cultural development and field testing of the primary care practice questionnaire for the PaRIS survey (PaRIS-PCPQ)
Authors: Bloemeke-Cammin Janika , Groene Oliver , Ballester Marta , Guanais Frederico , Groenewegen Peter , Kendir Candan , Porter Ian , Rehsi Amun , Rijken Mieke , Spreeuwenberg Peter , Suñol Rosa , Valderas Jose Maria , Williams Rachel , van den Berg Michael
Published: May 2024

Background

The PaRIS survey, an initiative of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), aims to assess health systems performance in delivering primary care by measuring the care experiences and outcomes of people over 45 who used primary care services in the past six months. In addition, linked data from primary care practices are collected to analyse how the organisation of primary care practices and their care processes impact care experiences and outcomes. This article describes the development and validation of the primary care practice questionnaire for the PaRIS survey, the PaRIS-PCPQ.

Method

The PaRIS-PCPQ was developed based on domains of primary care practice and professional characteristics included in the PaRIS conceptual framework. Questionnaire development was conducted in four phases: (1) a multi-step consensus-based development of the source questionnaire, (2) translation of the English source questionnaire into 17 languages, (3) cross-national cognitive testing with primary care professionals in participating countries, and (4) cross-national field-testing.

Results

70 items were selected from 7 existing questionnaires on primary care characteristics, of which 49 were included in a first draft. Feedback from stakeholders resulted in a modified 34-item version (practice profile, care coordination, chronic care management, patient follow-up, and respondent characteristics) designed to be completed online by medical or non-medical staff working in a primary care practice. Cognitive testing led to changes in the source questionnaire as well as to country specific localisations. The resulting 32-item questionnaire was piloted in an online survey and field test. Data from 540 primary care practices from 17 countries were collected and analysed. Final revision resulted in a 34-item questionnaire.

Conclusions

The cross-national development of a primary care practice questionnaire is challenging due to the differences in care delivery systems. Rigorous translation and cognitive testing as well as stakeholder engagement helped to overcome most challenges. The PaRIS-PCPQ will be used to assess how key characteristics of primary care practices relate to the care experiences and outcomes of people living with chronic conditions. As such, policymakers and care providers will be informed about the performance of primary care from the patient’s perspective.
They are my worries, so it’s me the doctor should listen to—adolescent males’ experiences of consultations with general practitioners
Authors: Haraldsson Johanna , Johnsson Linus , Tindberg Ylva , Kristiansson Per , Nordgren Lena
Published: May 2024

Background

Many adolescent males visit a general practitioner regularly, yet many report unmet health needs and negative experiences. This indicates a gap between provided healthcare and the needs of adolescent males. In order to improve adolescent males’ possibilities to discuss their health concerns with general practitioners, the study’s aim was to explore and describe how adolescent males understand and assign meaning to their experiences of consultations with general practitioners.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted at two healthcare centres in mid-Sweden in 2022. Nine males 15 to 19 years old described their experiences in semi-structured interviews immediately after consulting a general practitioner, regardless of reason for the consultation and whether or not accompanied by a parent. The analysis was guided by thematic analysis according to Braun & Clarke and reflective lifeworld theory’s concepts of openness and sensitivity.

Results

One overarching theme, To be listened to, and three themes were developed: To handle insecurity and uneasiness, To be understood and cared for, and To get parental support on his terms. In a good appointment, the general practitioner cares about him, listens attentively, and takes him seriously. More importantly, the general practitioner’s understanding permeates the consultation, so that all aspects of it is adapted to him. The adolescent males doubted their ability to express themselves and to understand what would happen in the consultation, and therefore feared being dismissed without receiving any help. Such difficulties may be due to unfinished neurocognitive development and inexperience. They struggled with embarrassment, partly due to notions of masculinity, and strived to balance their needs of parental support, privacy, and being the one that the doctor listens to.

Conclusions

We argue that adolescent males are particularly vulnerable due to on-going neurocognitive and emotional development, inexperience, and notions of masculinity. However, good experiences can be generated through rather simple means. Adolescent males need individual adaptations demonstrating that they are cared for, understood and taken seriously. Furthermore, they need an unhurried pace to facilitate understanding, verbal affirmations to mitigate embarrassment, and help in navigating parental involvement.
The association between night eating syndrome and GERD symptoms among university students at An-Najah National University in Palestine: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Abed Mohammad Taleb , Sayyed Eyad , Yamak Obada , Abdoh Qusay , Badrasawi Manal
Published: May 2024

Background

Night eating syndrome (NES) is a kind of eating disorder. NES association with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms among university students is still not fully understood. We aimed to determine the relationship between NES and the presence of GERD symptoms among university students at An-Najah National University in Palestine.

Methods

This study involved undergraduate students from An-Najah National University. The data were collected through online surveys from November to December 2023. The sampling frame involved voluntary sampling, as the data were collected using a structured questionnaire to collect data on sociodemographic variables, medical history, lifestyle habits, nutritional status, GERD risk, and NES. The GERD questionnaire (GerdQ) was used to assess symptoms, while the Arabic version of the validated Night Eating Questionnaire (NEQ) was used to assess night eating. Physical activity was assessed using the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (SF-IPAQ), and adherence to a Mediterranean diet was assessed using the validated Arabic version of the MEDAS. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were also conducted to assess the study hypotheses.

Results

The study involved 554 participants, 59.9% female. A total of 33.4% reported GERD symptoms, with 10.3% having NES. A strong association was observed between GERD and NES and between GERD and physical activity. Night eating syndrome (AOR = 2.84, CI = 1.07–3.19), high physical activity (AOR = 0.473, CI = 1.05–3.19), and non-smoking (AOR = 0.586, CI = 1.27–7.89) were identified as independent predictors of GERD symptoms.

Conclusion

This study revealed that 33.4% of undergraduate students were at risk of GERD, with night eaters having a greater risk. GERD risk was negatively associated with physical activity level and smoking status. No associations were found between GERD risk and weight status, Mediterranean diet adherence, sociodemographic factors, or sleep disturbances.
Policy, practice, and prediction: model-based approaches to evaluating N. gonorrhoeae antibiotic susceptibility test uptake in Australia
Authors: Do Phu Cong , Assefa Yibeltal Alemu , Batikawai Suliasi Mekerusa , Abate Megbaru Alemu , Reid Simon Andrew
Published: May 2024

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a significant threat to global health with Neisseria gonorrhoea emerging as a key pathogen of concern. In Australia, the Australian Gonococcal Surveillance Program (AGSP) plays a critical role in monitoring resistance patterns. However, antibiotic susceptibility test (AST) uptake – a crucial component for effective resistance surveillance – remains to be a limiting factor. The study aims to model the processes involved in generating AST tests for N. gonorrhoea isolates within the Australian healthcare system and assess the potential impact of systematic and policy-level changes.

Methods

Two models were developed. The first model was a mathematical stochastic health systems model (SHSM) and a Bayesian Belief Network (BBN) to simulate the clinician-patient dynamics influencing AST initiation. Key variables were identified through systematic literature review to inform the construction of both models. Scenario analyses were conducted with the modification of model parameters.

Results

The SHSM and BBN highlighted clinician education and the use of clinical support tools as effective strategies to improve AST. Scenario analysis further identified adherence to guidelines and changes in patient-level factors, such as persistence of symptoms and high-risk behaviours, as significant determinants. Both models supported the notion of mandated testing to achieve higher AST initiation rates but with considerations necessary regarding practicality, laboratory constraints, and culture failure rate.

Conclusion

The study fundamentally demonstrates a novel approach to conceptualising the patient-clinician dynamic within AMR testing utilising a model-based approach. It suggests targeted interventions to educational, support tools, and legislative framework as feasible strategies to improve AST initiation rates. However, the research fundamentally highlights substantial research gaps in the underlying understanding of AMR.
Tuberculosis preventive treatment uptake among people living with HIV during COVID-19 period in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a retrospective data review
Authors: Gebreegziabher Senedu Bekele , Ashuro Akililu Alemu , Kumssa Tsegaye Hailu , Teferi Melese Yeshambaw , Alemayue Endawoke Amsalu , Datiko Daniel Gemechu , Yimer Solomon Abebe , Shagre Mulatu Biru
Published: May 2024

Background

Screening for tuberculosis (TB) and providing TB preventive treatment (TPT) along with antiretroviral therapy is key components of human immune deficiency virus (HIV) care. The uptake of TPT during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) period has not been adequately assessed in Addis Ababa City Administration. This study aimed at assessing TPT uptake status among People living with HIV (PLHIV) newly initiated on antiretroviral therapy during the COVID-19 period at all public hospitals of Addis Ababa City Administration, Ethiopia.

Methods

A retrospective data review was conducted from April-July 2022. Routine District Health Information System 2 database was reviewed for the period from April 2020-March 2022. Proportion and mean with standard deviation were computed. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess factors associated with TPT completion. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 1,069 PLHIV, aged 18 years and above were newly initiated on antiretroviral therapy, and of these 1,059 (99.1%) underwent screening for TB symptoms. Nine hundred twelve (86.1%) were negative for TB symptoms. Overall, 78.8% (719) of cases who were negative for TB symptoms were initiated on TPT, and of these 70.5% and 22.8% were completed and discontinued TPT, respectively. Of 719 cases who were initiated on TPT, 334 (46.5%) and 385 (53.5%) were initiated on isoniazid plus rifapentine weekly for three months and Isoniazid preventive therapy daily for six months, respectively. PLHIV who were initiated on isoniazid plus rifapentine weekly for three months were more likely to complete TPT (adjusted odds ratio [AOR],1.68; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01, 2.79) compared to those who were initiated on Isoniazid preventive therapy daily for six months.

Conclusion

While the proportion of PLHIV screened for TB was high, TPT uptake was low and far below the national target of achieving 90% TPT coverage. Overall a considerable proportion of cases discontinued TPT in this study. Further strengthening of the programmatic management of latent TB infection among PLHIV is needed. Therefore, efforts should be made by the Addis Ababa City Administration Health Bureau authorities and program managers to strengthen the initiation and completion of TPT among PLHIV in public hospitals.
Associations between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and ten common cancers: novel insights from Mendelian randomization analyses
Authors: Liao Shixia , Wang Yanwen , Zhou Jian , Liu Yuting , He Shuangfei , Zhang Lanying , Liu Maomao , Wen Dongmei , Sun Pengpeng , Lu Guangbing , Wang Qi , Ouyang Yao , Song Yongxiang
Published: May 2024

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a significant global health issue, suspected to elevate the risk for various cancers. This study sought to discern whether COPD serves as a risk marker or a causative factor for prevalent cancers.

Methods

We employed univariable MR (UVMR) analyses to investigate the causal relationship between COPD and the top ten common cancers. Sensitivity analyses were performed to validate the main findings. Multivariable MR (MVMR) and two-step MR analyses were also conducted. False-discovery-rate (FDR) was used to correct multiple testing bias.

Results

The UVMR analysis demonstrated notable associations between COPD and lung cancer (odds ratio [OR] = 1.42, 95%CI 1.15–1.77, FDR = 6.37 × 10–3). This relationship extends to lung cancer subtypes such as squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC), adenocarcinoma (LUAD), and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). A tentative link was also identified between COPD and bladder cancer (OR = 1.53, 95%CI 1.03–2.28, FDR = 0.125). No significant associations were found between COPD and other types of cancer. The MVMR analysis that adjusted for smoking, alcohol drinking, and body mass index did not identify any significant causal relationships between COPD and either lung or bladder cancer. However, the two-step MR analysis indicates that COPD mediated 19.2% (95% CI 12.7–26.1%), 36.1% (24.9–33.2%), 35.9% (25.7–34.9%), and 35.5% (26.2–34.8%) of the association between smoking and overall lung cancer, as well as LUAD, LUSC, and SCLC, respectively.

Conclusions

COPD appears to act more as a risk marker than a direct cause of prevalent cancers. Importantly, it partially mediates the connection between smoking and lung cancer, underscoring its role in lung cancer prevention strategies.
Domiciliary monitoring of exhaled nitric oxide in the management of asthma: a pilot study
Authors: Li Hongwen , Lin Jiangtao , Zhang Qing , Wang Jingru , Li Chunxiao
Published: May 2024

Background

Whether asthma patients could benefit from home monitoring for fractional exhaled nitric oxide (flow of 50 mL/s, FeNO50) is unknown. We explore the application value of home monitoring FeNO50 in daily asthma management.

Methods

Twenty-two untreated, uncontrolled asthma patients were selected. Medical history, blood and sputum samples, pulmonary function, Asthma Control Test (ACT), and other clinical data of the subjects were collected. All subjects underwent daily monitoring for four weeks using a FeNO50 monitor and mobile spirometry (mSpirometry). The diurnal differences and dynamic changes were described. Compare the effect-acting time and the relative plateau of treatment between FeNO50 and mSpirometry monitoring.

Results

In the first two weeks, the morning median (IQR) level of FeNO50 was 44 (35, 56) ppb, which was significantly higher than the evening median level [41 (32, 53) ppb, P = 0.028]. The median (IQR) effect-acting time assessed by FeNO50 was 4 (3, 5) days, which was significantly earlier than each measure of mSpirometry (P < 0.05). FeNO50 reached the relative plateau significantly earlier than FEV1 (15 ± 2 days vs. 21 ± 3 days, P < 0.001). After treatment, the daily and weekly variation rates of FeNO50 showed a gradually decreasing trend (P < 0.05). The ACT score, sputum eosinophils, and blood eosinophils also significantly improved (P ≤ 0.01).

Conclusions

The daily home monitoring of FeNO50 in asthmatic patients showed significant circadian rhythm, and the sensitivity of FeNO50 in evaluating the response to treatment was higher than mSpirometry. The daily and weekly variation rates of FeNO50 change dynamically with time, which may be used to assess the condition of asthma.
Exploring rare locations of hydatid disease: a retrospective case series
Authors: Mona Cherif , Meryam Mesbahi , Nizar Khedhiri , Yazid Benzarti , Amara Amal , Haithem Zaafouri , Dhafer Hadded , Anis Ben Maamer
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Hydatid disease, endemic in Mediterranean countries, primarily affects the liver, but can manifest in diverse organs. Non-hepatic and non-pulmonary cysts often pose diagnostic challenges. This study examines patients with hydatid cysts in atypical locations.

Methods and results

From 2013 to 2020, our center treated 250 echinococcosis patients, among whom 11 cases (4.4%) with hydatid disease in uncommon sites were retrospectively reviewed. The distribution of unusual cyst locations and their clinical implications are discussed.

Conclusion

Diagnosing hydatid cysts in uncommon locations is a formidable challenge. Surgeons should always contemplate the prospect of an unconventional cyst location when encountering patients with cystic masses in endemic regions. Failing to consider this possibility could lead to unfavorable outcomes.
The influence of mindfulness meditation combined with progressive muscle relaxation training on the clinical efficacy and quality of life of patients with sarcopenia receiving haemodialysis: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Wu Yong-Yao , Gao Yi-Yi , Wang Jing-Qiao , Zhang Chao , Xu Peng-Jie , Liu Jiang , Yu Ri-Zhen , Zhang Hao-Jie
Published: May 2024

Objective

To study the effect of mindfulness meditation combined with progressive muscle relaxation training on the clinical efficacy and quality of life in patients with sarcopenia receiving maintenance haemodialysis (MHD).

Methods

Eligible patients with sarcopenia in our hospital were randomly assigned to a control group (n = 24) and an intervention group (n = 25). The control group received conventional dialysis treatment, while the intervention group underwent mindfulness meditation combined with progressive muscle relaxation training during the interdialysis period in addition to conventional dialysis treatment. The effect of the intervention was evaluated after 12 weeks.

Results

There were no significant differences in the baseline values of various parameters between the two groups. Exercise capacity (sit-to-stand test,handgrip,time to 10 sit-ups) significantly improved in the intervention group after 12 weeks (32.68 ± 8.32 vs 26.50 ± 6.83; 37.42 ± 10.12 vs 28.12 ± 8.51; 19.8 ± 5.40 vs 25.29 ± 7.18) (p < 0.05). In terms of the kidney disease quality of life (KDQOLTM) score, all other dimensions except sexual function, social functioning, burden of kidney disease and work status dimensions showed significant improvement compared to the baseline (p < 0.05). In the control group, only the dialysis staff encouragement (DSE) and patient satisfaction (PS) dimensions showed slight improvements compared to the baseline (p > 0.05). When compared with the control group, the intervention group showed significant improvements in 10 dimensions of exercise capacity and KDQOLTM scores for physical function, role-physical, general health, energy, symptom/problem list, sleep, DSE, pain, cognitive function, emotional well-being and patient PS after 12 weeks (61.30 ± 5.38 vs 42.98 ± 5.73; 57.50 ± 3.55 vs 50.70 ± 3.62) (p < 0.05). Some inflammatory markers, such as the levels of interleukin-6 and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (30.29 ± 2.96 vs 17.65 ± 3.22; 8.93 ± 0.99 vs 3.02 ± 0.34), showed a decrease during the intervention, while albumin and prealbumin levels were significantly increased compared with the baseline (30.62 ± 1.65 vs 35.60 ± 1.68; 0.32 ± 0.05 vs 0.44 ± 0.07) (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Combined intervention training can improve the motor ability and quality of life of patients with sarcopenia within a short period of time.
Association between lipid accumulation product and psoriasis among adults: a nationally representative cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Caiyun , Dong Xiaoping , Chen Jun , Liu Fang
Published: May 2024

Background

Lipid accumulation product (LAP) is an accessible and relatively comprehensive assessment of obesity that represents both anatomical and physiological lipid accumulation. Obesity and psoriasis are potentially related, according to previous research. Investigating the relationship between adult psoriasis and the LAP index was the goal of this study.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study based on data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003–2006 and 2009–2014. The association between LAP and psoriasis was examined using multivariate logistic regression and smoothed curve fitting. To verify whether this relationship was stable across populations, subgroup analyses and interaction tests were performed.

Results

The LAP index showed a positive correlation with psoriasis in 9,781 adult participants who were 20 years of age or older. A 27% elevated probability of psoriasis was linked to every unit increase in ln LAP in the fully adjusted model (Model 3: OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.06–1.52). In comparison with participants in the lowest ln LAP quartile, those in the highest quartile had an 83% greater likelihood of psoriasis (Model 3: OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.08–3.11). This positive correlation was more pronounced for young males, participants who had never smoked, non-drinkers, participants who exercised little, as well as non-hypertensive and non-diabetic participants.

Conclusions

This study found that the LAP index and adult psoriasis were positively correlated, especially in young males without comorbidities. Therefore, it is proposed that LAP may serve as a biomarker for early diagnosis of psoriasis and tracking the effectiveness of treatment.
Association between omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and osteoarthritis: results from the NHANES 2003–2016 and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Yuxuan , Song Feichao , Liu Muchun , Huang Xi , Xue Shuyan , Zhang Xuanyu , Hao Huiqin , Zhang Junfeng
Published: May 2024

Background

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs) exhibit potential as therapeutics for a variety of diseases. This observational and Mendelian randomization (MR) study aims to explore the relationship between omega-3 PUFAs and osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Excluding individuals under 20 years old and those with missing data on relevant variables in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 2003 to 2016, a total of 22 834 participants were included in this cross-sectional study. Weighted multivariable-adjusted logistic regression was used to estimate the association between omega-3 PUFAs and OA in adults. Moreover, restricted cubic splines were utilized to examine the dose-response relationship between omega-3 PUFAs and OA. To further investigate the potential causal relationship between omega-3 PUFAs and OA risk, a two-sample MR study was conducted. Furthermore, the robustness of the findings was assessed using various methods.

Results

Omega-3 PUFAs intake were inversely associated with OA in adults aged 40 ∼ 59 after multivariable adjustment $$[\text{OR} (95\% \text{CI): }0.85 (0.73, 0.98), P = 0.027]$$, with a nonlinear relationship observed between omega-3 PUFAs intake and OA $$\left(P \text{ for non-linearity}\text{ = 0.034}\right)$$. The IVW results showed there was no evidence to suggest a causal relationship between omega-3 PUFAs and OA risk $$\text{[OR} (95\% \text{CI): }0.967 (0.863, 1.084), P = 0.568]$$.

Conclusions

Omega-3 PUFAs were inversely associated with OA in adults aged 40 ∼ 59. However, MR studies did not confirm a causal relationship between the two.
Dual-targeted delivery of temozolomide by multi-responsive nanoplatform via tumor microenvironment modulation for overcoming drug resistance to treat glioblastoma
Authors: Chen Xiaojie , Zheng Yuyi , Zhang Qi , Chen Qi , Chen Zhong , Wu Di
Published: May 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor with low survival rate. Currently, temozolomide (TMZ) is the first-line drug for GBM treatment of which efficacy is unfortunately hindered by short circulation time and drug resistance associated to hypoxia and redox tumor microenvironment. Herein, a dual-targeted and multi-responsive nanoplatform is developed by loading TMZ in hollow manganese dioxide nanoparticles functionalized by polydopamine and targeting ligands RAP12 for photothermal and receptor-mediated dual-targeted delivery, respectively. After accumulated in GBM tumor site, the nanoplatform could respond to tumor microenvironment and simultaneously release manganese ion (Mn2+), oxygen (O2) and TMZ. The hypoxia alleviation via O2 production, the redox balance disruption via glutathione consumption and the reactive oxygen species generation, together would down-regulate the expression of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase under TMZ medication, which is considered as the key to drug resistance. These strategies could synergistically alleviate hypoxia microenvironment and overcome TMZ resistance, further enhancing the anti-tumor effect of chemotherapy/chemodynamic therapy against GBM. Additionally, the released Mn2+ could also be utilized as a magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent for monitoring treatment efficiency. Our study demonstrated that this nanoplatform provides an alternative approach to the challenges including low delivery efficiency and drug resistance of chemotherapeutics, which eventually appears to be a potential avenue in GBM treatment.
Functional extracellular vesicles from SHEDs combined with gelatin methacryloyl promote the odontogenic differentiation of DPSCs for pulp regeneration
Authors: Lu Hui , Mu Qing , Ku Weili , Zheng Yexin , Yi Ping , Lin Ling , Li Pei , Wang Boqun , Wu Jie , Yu Dongsheng , Zhao Wei
Published: May 2024

Background

Pulp regeneration is a novel approach for the treatment of immature permanent teeth with pulp necrosis. This technique includes the combination of stem cells, scaffolds, and growth factors. Recently, stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as a new methodology for pulp regeneration. Emerging evidence has proven that preconditioning is an effective scheme to modify EVs for better therapeutic potency. Meanwhile, proper scaffolding is of great significance to protect EVs from rapid clearance and destruction. This investigation aims to fabricate an injectable hydrogel loaded with EVs from pre-differentiated stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) and examine their effects on pulp regeneration.

Results

We successfully employed the odontogenic induction medium (OM) of SHEDs to generate functional EV (OM-EV). The OM-EV at a concentration of 20 µg/mL was demonstrated to promote the proliferation and migration of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). The results revealed that OM-EV has a better potential to promote odontogenic differentiation of DPSCs than common EVs (CM-EV) in vitro through Alizarin red phalloidin, alkaline phosphatase staining, and assessment of the expression of odontogenic-related markers. High-throughput sequencing suggests that the superior effects of OM-EV may be attributed to activation of the AMPK/mTOR pathway. Simultaneously, we prepared a photocrosslinkable gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) to construct an OM-EV-encapsulated hydrogel. The hydrogel exhibited sustained release of OM-EV and good biocompatibility for DPSCs. The released OM-EV from the hydrogel could be internalized by DPSCs, thereby enhancing their survival and migration. In tooth root slices that were subcutaneously transplanted in nude mice, the OM-EV-encapsulated hydrogel was found to facilitate dentinogenesis. After 8 weeks, there was more formation of mineralized tissue, as well as higher levels of dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) and dentin matrix protein-1 (DMP-1).

Conclusions

The effects of EV can be substantially enhanced by preconditioning of SHEDs. The functional EVs from SHEDs combined with GelMA are capable of effectively promoting dentinogenesis through upregulating the odontogenic differentiation of DPSCs, which provides a promising therapeutic approach for pulp regeneration.