bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical Constituents, Antimicrobial Activity of Daniellia oliveri, and X-ray Crystal Structure of Polyalthic Acid
Authors: Magnibou Larissa M. , Bernard Dabole , Leutcha Peron B. , Njateng Guy S.S. , Chimi Larissa Y. , Tagatsing Maurice F. , Yousuf Sammer , Atia-tul-Wahab  , Choudhary Muhammad I. , Talla Emmanuel
Published: September 2024

Objectives: Daniellia oliveri Rolfe is a well-known plant of Fabaceae family whose previous phytochemical and pharmacological studies led to the identification of triterpenoid, phenol, anthraquinone oxalate with antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal activities. This study aimed to investigate chemical constituents and evaluate the antimicrobial potency of the root of D. oliveri. Methods: The methanol extract of the root barks of D. oliveri was subjected to silica gel chromatographic separation. The structures of the isolated compounds (1-9) were determined by analyzing their spectrometric and spectroscopic spectra. Single-crystal-Xray analysis was used to establish the absolute skeletal structure of compound 1. Crude extract, fractions and compounds were investigated against four bacteria vis Pseudomonas aeruginosa 27853, Escherichia coli 5, Staphylococcus aureus 25923 and Streptococcus sp . 9619 and, two yeast vis Candida albicans14053 and Candida tropicalis 018 using broth microdilution method. Results: The phytochemical prospection of the methanol extract of D. oliveri allowed the isolation of a naturally crystallized diterpenoid type furolabdane: polyalthic acid 1, as well as eight amorphous compounds (2-9). Among the tested samples, the crude extract, fractions and compounds selectively showed inhibitory effects against the tested microorganisms with MIC values ranging from 4 to 1024 μg/mL. Fraction D1 and compounds 1, 4, 7, 8 and 9 exhibited the broadest antimicrobial effects among fractions and compounds while D5 and compound 1 showed the best activity with MIC values of 16 and 4 μg/mL respectively against E. coli which appeared to be the most sensitive strain . Conclusion: Polyaltic acid (1) showed the best activity with significant MIC value of 4 μg/mL identical to that of ceftazidine against E. coli. The MIC values of the active compounds 1, 4 and 7 are comparable to those of ceftazidime. Then, these compounds from natural origin, could serve as markers in the standardization of Daniellia plant as phytomedicine.
Medicinal Plants as Effective Antiviral Agents and Their Potential Benefits
Authors: Atampugbire Gabriel , Adomako Eureka Emefa Ahadjie , Quaye Osbourne
Published: September 2024

This paper explores a diverse field of medicinal plants as potential antiviral agents, and delves into utilization of plant medicine for combating viral infections, emphasizing recent surge in research on natural products from plants as antiviral agents. Specific plant-derived compounds, like phyllanthin and iscador, have been proven to exhibit antiviral properties with great potential for pharmaceutical development. Mechanisms of antiviral action by phytochemicals that are present in medicinal plants, including direct viral inhibition, degradation of viral capsid, and immunomodulation were identified, and a combination therapy of medicinal plants with conventional antiviral drugs were explored. Efficacy of medicinal plants as antiviral agents was critically assessed and revealed that the complexity and variability of herbal formulations, and safety concerns regarding toxicity levels, pose challenges in drug development. However, research on medicinal plants is often hindered by limited understanding of phytochemical mechanisms, the complexity and variability of herbal formulations, and safety concerns regarding toxicity and interactions with other medications. The way forward in harnessing full potential of medicinal plants as antiviral agents underscores the need for further research into developing models that seek to enhance the selectivity of plant extracts in order to minimize toxicity levels.
High-Risk Plaque Features in the Non-stenosing Carotid Artery, How Frequently is This Reported? A Retrospective Study
Authors: Jumah Ammar , Albanna Abdalla Jamal , Elfaham Abdelrahman , Eltous Lara , Zoghoul Sohaib , Miller Daniel
Published: September 2024

Background

High-risk features of non-stenosing (ie, <50%) carotid plaques are emerging as a possible source of embolism in patients with embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS). However, in the absence of hemodynamically significant stenosis, neuroradiology reports rarely describe these morphological features. Our aim was to determine how often high-risk features of non-stenosing plaques are included in diagnostic imaging reports.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we evaluated computed tomography angiography (CTA) reports associated with the CTA imaging results for a previously published cohort study. Plaque features reporting frequencies were calculated and defined as the number of times specific plaque features were included in the CTA reports (Thickness, ulceration, length, soft component and calcification) divided by the number of occurrences of high-risk plaque features (Thickness >0.3 cm; ulceration; length >1.0 cm), soft component, or calcification identified in the CTA results. We used Fisher exact test to compare the reporting frequencies of the 5 plaque features.

Results

We analyzed 152 CTA reports. The frequency of reporting plaque thickness (0/40; 0%), ulceration (3/37; 8.1%), and length (7/29; 24.1%) was significantly lower than the reporting of plaque calcification (122/122; 100%) and presence of soft component (31/34; 72.1%) when these features were present in CTA imaging results (all P < 0.001).

Conclusion

When carotid plaques are not causing hemodynamically significant stenosis, neuroradiology reports frequency mention plaque density but often exclude other characteristics. Neuroradiologists and neurologists should collaborate to create algorithms, scoring systems and prediction models to accurately determine which plaque features are highly associated with embolism.
Optimal Timeline and Hematoma Size Parameters for Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization in Acute-On-Chronic Subdural Hematomas
Authors: Fana Michael , Santangelo Giulia , Albanna Abdalla , Jum’ah Ammar , Rehman Mohammed
Published: September 2024

Background and Purpose

Chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH) are subdural collection of blood for which the current treatment option remains as surgical evacuation due to recurring focal inflammation and angiogenesis. An adjunctive therapeutic intervention is endovascular embolization of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) to cease the prolific cycle of angiogenesis. Few investigations have been made into the indications of this treatment modality regarding the intervention timeline and hematoma size for non-surgical candidates with acute-on-chronic subdural hematomas.

Methods

We examined the clinical outcomes of 19 patients with 31 acute-on-chronic SDHs undergone MMA embolization and highlighted preliminary trends in radiological and morbidity outcomes.

Results

Primary outcomes identified a 57.6% success rate for MMA embolization of acute-on-chronic SDHs defined as significantly reduced hematoma size (i.e. >50%) without recurring bleeds, peri-procedural complications, post-procedural neurological deficits, and need for post-procedural surgical evacuation. Subgroup analysis demonstrated a success rate of 90.9% in patients undergone embolization after a minimum 3-week delay from initial CT head study compared to 33.3% with early intervention as well as a success rate of 75% in patients presenting with a large (i.e. >10 mm) SDH compared to 30% for small SDH.

Conclusion

Our preliminary data in this retrospective cohort study demonstrates significantly improved outcomes of MMA embolization in patients presenting with large (>10 mm) acute-on-chronic SDHs and in patients undergone embolization after >3 weeks from initial CT head and symptomatic presentation.
Phase I/II study of the clinical activity and safety of GSK3326595 in patients with myeloid neoplasms
Authors: Watts Justin , Minden Mark D. , Bachiashvili Kimo , Brunner Andrew M. , Abedin Sameem , Crossman Timothy , Zajac Magdalena , Moroz Veronica , Egger Jacqueline L. , Tarkar Aarti , Kremer Brandon E. , Barbash Olena , Borthakur Gautam
Published: September 2024

Background:

GSK3326595 is a potent, selective, reversible protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) inhibitor under investigation for treatment of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In preclinical models of AML, PRMT5 inhibition decreased proliferation and increased cell death, supporting additional clinical research in myeloid neoplasms.

Objectives:

To determine the clinical activity, safety, tolerability, dosing, additional measures of clinical activity, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of GSK3326595.

Design:

In part 1 of this open-label, multicenter, multipart, phase I/II study, adults with relapsed/refractory myeloid neoplasms (e.g., MDS, CMML, and AML) received monotherapy with 400 or 300 mg oral GSK3326595 once daily. Study termination occurred prior to part 2 enrollment.

Methods:

Clinical activity was determined by the clinical benefit rate (CBR; proportion of patients achieving complete remission (CR), complete marrow remission (mCR), partial remission, stable disease (SD) >8 weeks, or hematologic improvement). Adverse events (AEs) were assessed by incidence and severity. Exploratory examination of spliceosome mutations was performed to determine the relationship between genomic profiles and clinical response to GSK3326595.

Results:

Thirty patients with a median age of 73.5 years (range, 47–90) were enrolled; 13 (43%) and 17 (57%) received 400 and 300 mg of GSK3326595, respectively. Five (17%) patients met CBR criteria: 4 (13%) with SD >8 weeks and 1 (3%) achieving mCR. Of five patients with clinical benefit: three had SRSF2 mutation, one U2AF1, and one was splicing factor wild-type. Frequent GSK3326595-related AEs were decreased platelet count (27%), dysgeusia (23%), fatigue (20%), and nausea (20%). GSK3326595 had rapid absorption, with a Tmax of approximately 2 h and a terminal half-life of 4–6 h.

Conclusion:

GSK3326595 monotherapy had limited clinical activity in heavily pretreated patients despite robust target engagement. The safety profile was broadly consistent with other published PRMT5 inhibitor studies.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03614728.
Targeting B-cell maturation antigen for treatment and monitoring of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma patients: a comprehensive review
Authors: Yashar David , Regidor Bernard , Goldwater Marissa-Skye , Bujarski Sean , Del Dosso Ashley , Berenson James R.
Published: September 2024

Despite major therapeutic advancements in recent years, multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable disease with nearly all patients experiencing relapsed and refractory disease over the course of treatment. Extending the duration and durability of clinical responses will necessitate the development of therapeutics with novel targets that are capable of robustly and specifically eliminating myeloma cells. B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is a membrane-bound protein expressed predominantly on malignant plasma cells and has recently been the target of several novel therapeutics to treat MM patients. This review will focus on recently approved and currently in development agents that target this protein, including bispecific antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapies. In addition, this protein also serves as a novel serum biomarker to predict outcomes and monitor disease status for MM patients; the studies demonstrating this use of BCMA will be discussed in detail.
What makes a lifetime? Growing teaching practices with/in communities
Authors: Bentley Dana
Published: September 2024

What makes a teacher? How might educators be oriented toward children, rather than institutions? How might we grow pedagogies through humans, instead of systems? In a time of scope, sequence, standards, and scripted lessons, the orientation of teachers is often turned away from the actual people who inhabit the classrooms: the children and the teachers themselves. But what is that alternative? How might we frame teacher education and practice toward and through the classrooms themselves? This narrative, auto-ethnographic study examines a non-traditional path into teaching. This unique path, absent the formalized structures and expectations of what teaching is/should be, invites reconceptualizations of how teaching might emerge through communities, rather than institutional systems. Through the experiences of a young settlement house “teacher” and her classroom of young children, I explore the possibilities of building a curriculum, a democracy, a practice and a lifetime of teaching in collaboration with children, and all members of the community.
Using in silico methods to determine optimal tapering regimens for decanoate-based long-acting injectable psychosis drugs
Authors: O’Neill James R. , Taylor David M. , Horowitz Mark A.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Reducing the dose of psychosis drugs in a gradual hyperbolic manner may minimise withdrawal effects and risk of relapse. There is presently limited guidance on tapering decanoate-based long-acting injectable dopamine antagonists (LIDAs).

Objectives:

We aimed to apply hyperbolic principles of tapering to the decanoate-based LIDAs flupentixol, zuclopenthixol and haloperidol to develop withdrawal regimens.

Design:

We used in silico methodology to predict plasma drug levels and D2 occupancy for different LIDA regimens.

Methods:

Existing pharmacokinetic and receptor occupancy data from nuclear neuroimaging studies were used to power modelling. Abrupt discontinuation was examined as a potential strategy, and dose reduction was modelled with pre-defined constraints used in similar work of 10 (fast regimens), 5 (moderate) and 2.5 (slow) percentage points of D2 occupancy change per month.

Results:

Abrupt discontinuation of decanoate-based LIDAs leads to excessive change in D2 occupancy which violated our pre-defined constraints, potentially resulting in withdrawal symptoms and increased risk of relapse. Reduction of LIDA dose allowed hyperbolic reduction in plasma level consistent with imposed constraints on receptor occupancy reduction rate. For equivalent per-weekly LIDA dosing, more frequent administration allowed a more gradual reduction of D2 occupancy. However, switching to oral forms is required to continue hyperbolic tapering to full discontinuation; reduction to zero using only LIDA produces too large a reduction in D2 occupancy. Guidance for reduction and cessation of LIDAs according to slow, moderate and fast criteria is provided.

Conclusion:

Abrupt cessation of decanoate LIDAs is not consistent with gradual hyperbolic tapering, despite their longer half-lives compared with oral formulations. Reduction to the point of full discontinuation can only be achieved by switching to oral therapy to complete the taper. These results are limited by the in silico and theoretical nature of the study, and there is a need to confirm these findings through real-world observational and interventional studies.
A fetus with a mass in the oral cavity: A rare case of large oral immature teratoma
Authors: Anjum Saba , Siddiqui Humza Faisal , Arshad Sidra
Published: September 2024

Oral teratoma is a congenital neoplastic lesion with an incidence of 2%–9% of all teratomas. It comprises variable amounts of all three germ cell layers. The lesion is graded on histology depending upon the presence of immature components. The most common sites of presentation are the sacrococcygeal area and head and neck with slight female predominance. Our report is based on a case that was received for histopathological evaluation. It consisted of a 20-week fetus with a huge mass protruding from oral orifice measuring 10.8 × 6.7 cm. Histological examination of the tumor revealed immature teratoma—oropharynx.
Applying an extended theoretical approach to identifying Canadian dental students’ acceptance of teledentistry: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Talla Pascaline K , Kamalabadi Yasaman M , Durand Robert , Michaud Pierre-Luc , Emami Elham
Published: September 2024

Objective

Teledentistry is a promising innovation for improving service quality and patient outcomes. While studies have shown the relevance of theoretical frameworks in understanding behaviour change predictors for telehealth implementation efforts, their application in dentistry is limited. This study aimed to test different theoretical approaches to identify the factors affecting dental students’ behavioural intention to use teledentistry.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved students in their final two years of undergraduate dental programmes, from three Canadian provinces (Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Saskatchewan) using an electronic self-reported questionnaire. Following descriptive analyses, we tested three theoretical models (the technology acceptance model, psychosocial model, and integrated model) using path analysis and multiple linear regression analysis. We analyzed the modifying effect of sociodemographic characteristics and prior use of teledentistry.

Results

Out of the 46 students who participated, the majority were female (53.5%) and aged over 25 years (62.8%). The three models successfully explained a substantial portion of the variance in behavioural intention to use teledentistry, ranging from 58.0% to 76.6%. Social role beliefs ( p < 0.001) and control beliefs ( p < 0.001) were the most significant predictors of behavioural intention to use. Prior use of teledentistry modified the association between control beliefs and behavioural intention to use teledentistry.

Conclusions

The original technology acceptance model was a good predictive model of behavioural intention to use teledentistry with perceived use as the strongest predictor. However, the integrated model performed the best in highlighting the relevance of training and education to foster teledentistry implementation in dental schools. The generalizability of the findings is constrained by the modest sample size, warranting larger studies for validation.
Assessment of health technology acceptability for remote monitoring of patients with COVID-19: A measurement model for user perceptions of pulse oximeters
Authors: Torres-Robles Andrea , Baysari Melissa , Allison Karen , Shaw Miranda , Hutchings Owen , Britton Warwick J , Wilson Andrew , Poon Simon K
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aims to develop a measurement model for health technology acceptability using a theoretical framework and a range of validated instruments to measure user experience, acceptance, usability, health and digital health literacy.

Methods

A cross-sectional evaluation study using a mixed-methods approach was conducted. An online survey was administered to patients who used a pulse oximeter in a virtual hospital setting during COVID-19. The model development was conducted in three steps: (1) exploratory factor analysis for conceptual model development, (2) measurement model confirmation through confirmatory factor analysis followed by structural equation modelling and (3) test of model external validity on four outcome measures. Finally, the different constructs of the developed model were used to compare two types of pulse oximeters by measuring the standardised scores.

Results

Two hundred and two participants were included in the analysis, 37.6% were female and the average age was 53 years (SD:15.38). A four-construct model comprising Task Load, Affective Attitude, Self-Efficacy and Value of Use (0.636–0.857 factor loadings) with 12 items resulted from the exploratory factor analysis and yielded a good fit (RMSEA = .026). Health and digital health literacy did not affect the overall reliability of the model. Frustration, performance, trust and satisfaction were identified as outcomes of the model. No significant differences were observed in the acceptability constructs when comparing the two pulse oximeter devices.

Conclusions

This article proposes a model for the measurement of the acceptability of health technologies used by patients in a remote care setting based on the use of a pulse oximeter in COVID-19 remote monitoring.
Digital measurement of mobility in pulmonary arterial hypertension: A structured review of an emerging area
Authors: Robertson Erin , Naghavi Nader , Wipperman Matthew F. , Tuckwell Katie , Effendi Muhammad , Alaj Rinol , Urbanek Jacek , Lederer David , Fredenburgh Laura , Stuart Samuel
Published: September 2024

This review examined literature that has examined mobility in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) using digital technology. Specifically, the review focussed on: (a) digital mobility measurement in PAH; (b) commonly reported mobility outcomes in PAH; (c) PAH specific impact on mobility outcomes; and (d) recommendations concerning protocols for mobility measurement in PAH. PubMed, Scopus, and Medline databases were searched. Two independent reviewers screened articles that described objective measurement of mobility in PAH using digital technology. Twenty-one articles were screened, and 16 articles met the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were reviewed. Current methodologies for mobility measurement in PAH with digital technologies are discussed. In brief, the reviewed evidence demonstrated that there is a lack of standardisation across studies for instrumentation, outcomes, and interpretation in PAH. The validity and reliability of digital approaches were insufficiently reported in all studies. Future research is required to standardise digital mobility measurement and characterise mobility impairments in PAH across clinical and real-world settings. The reviewed evidence suggests that digital mobility outcomes may be useful clinical measures and may be impaired in PAH, but further research is required to accurately and robustly establish findings. Recommendations are provided for future studies that encompass comprehensive reporting, validation, and measurement.
Relationship between problematic smartphone use and sleep problems: The roles of sleep-related compensatory health beliefs and bedtime procrastination
Authors: An Yandong , Zhang Meng Xuan
Published: September 2024

Objective

Concerns regarding sleep problems in emerging adults and their antecedents, such as problematic smartphone use (PSU), have been growing. This study tested the association between PSU and sleep problems and further investigated the mechanisms of this relationship based on the theory of compensatory health beliefs (CHBs).

Methods

This study included 999 participants (74.87% female) in China, aged 17 to 25 years (M = 21.16; standard deviation = 1.60), who voluntarily filled in an anonymous survey.

Results

The findings showed positive correlations between sleep problems and PSU, sleep-related CHBs, and bedtime procrastination ( rs  = .25–.52, p  < .001). Furthermore, the positive link between PSU and sleep problems was mediated by bedtime procrastination alone (β=.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) [.17, .26]) or a serial path of sleep-related CHBs and bedtime procrastination (β=.04, 95% CI [.02, .05]).

Conclusion

This study provides a new perspective to understand the internal mechanism underlying the PSU-sleep problem link. Interventions for sleep disorders ought to consider the theoretical guidelines of the CHBs model to reduce the risk of bedtime procrastination and sleep disorders in emerging adults.
Digital Battlegrounds: The Interplay of Social Media, State Power, and Influencers in Türkiye’s Earthquake Response
Authors: Karataş Duygu , Bek Mine Gencel
Published: September 2024

This study examines the critical role of Twitter (X) in crisis communication during the earthquake that struck Türkiye on 6 February 2023, focusing on how two prominent influencers, Haluk Levent and Oğuzhan Uğur, effectively utilized the platform in response to the disaster. Analysis of highly retweeted posts and engagement rates for tweets collected using related keywords—“ahbap,” “babalatv,” “haluklevent,” and “oguzhanugur”—reveals how Twitter served not only for functions such as sharing locations for rescue operations, information dissemination, organization, and fundraising but also for defense against attacks and criticism of the government. Furthermore, Twitter emerged as a digital battleground where power struggles unfolded between the state and activist influencers. This study addresses this oversight by examining how Twitter functions not merely as a tool for communication and aid coordination but also as an arena of political contestation, filling a critical gap in understanding the role of social media. It underscores the critical need to consider the underlying political dynamics that social media interactions bring to the forefront during emergencies.
Exploring the influence of disciplinary cultures and self-efficacy on the training needs of scientists in Portugal
Authors: Costa e Silva Elsa , Pinto Sandra , Magalhães Olga Estrela
Published: September 2024

Scientists are increasingly asked to publicly engage with wider audiences, but such actions require specific training. However, the perceived training needs of researchers have not been widely studied, and the impact of disciplinary cultures has not been assessed. Enhanced knowledge on how different disciplinary communities view training could assist in better tailoring training programmes. With the purpose of analysing training needs reported by scientists, a survey was administered to researchers from three scientific disciplines in Portugal, and the results confirm an association between scientific disciplines and training needs. Previous science communication practice is also related to perceived needs, and training is associated with enhanced self-efficacy.
The CATCH My Breath Vaping Prevention Curriculum: An Evaluation of Impacts in Central Appalachian Middle and High Schools, 2019-2023
Authors: Burchfield Katherine , Doyle Daniel , Mantey Dale , Bennett Trey , Baus Adam
Published: September 2024

Introduction/Objectives:

Since 2015, the rise in e-cigarette use among youth has concerned public health authorities. After peaking in 2019, usage rates have declined but remain high. In 2023, 10% of high school and 4.6% of middle school students reported current use. This report describes the implementation and evaluation of a school-based e-cigarette prevention program, CATCH My Breath (CMB), in 8 central Appalachian counties. These counties have some of the highest rates of tobacco use, poor health, and premature death in the United States.

Methods:

A total of 6217 students across 25 middle and high schools in West Virginia and Kentucky received the CMB program from 2019 to 2023. Lists of participating counties, schools, and teachers were maintained on a rolling basis over the 4 years of the project. Program reach and impact on e-cigarette knowledge and use are reported. Thirteen-item pre- and post-tests were completed electronically by students before and after each course delivery. Questions assessed knowledge about e-cigarettes, current (past 30-day) e-cigarette use, and interest in future use.

Results:

From 2019 to 2023, there were 9399 deliveries of the 4-session CMB course, primarily to middle school students. Approximately 84% reported being less likely to use e-cigarettes following the program. Significant improvements in e-cigarette knowledge and beliefs on 5 of 8 items were observed, including a significant increase in knowledge composite score (4.15-4.75, P < .001). From pre- to post-test, declines in current e-cigarette use (5.1% to 4.4%; P = .005) and peer influence (4.9% to 4.0%; P = .025) were also observed.

Conclusions:

CMB was feasible, effective, and well-received in a convenience sample of central Appalachian counties and schools. This curriculum, combined with other policy initiatives, offers hope for curbing the growing epidemic of youth e-cigarette use and nicotine dependence. The success of this project contributed to a decision by the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health and the West Virginia Department of Education to launch a joint effort to bring CMB to middle schools in all 55 counties during the next 3 school years of 2023-2026.
Feasibility and Methodology of a Pilot Free Blood Pressure Monitoring and Follow-Up Program at Two Free Clinics
Authors: Mikos Georgios , Yu Brian , Balbin Jessica , Martinez-Reyes Laisha , Tang Jonathan M. , Lieu Brandon Nguyen , Tran Edward , Xue Athena , Lee Jiwoo , Wary Neil , Franke Camryn , Panyanouvong Nicholas , Chaclan Melody J. , Chang Tony H. , Chen Crystal , Guo Michaela Y. , Harvell Kelly , Horan Rose , Johnson Nicole A. , Kim Audrey , Liu Eric , Liu Linda , Nuñez-Perez Pablo , Quig Madison , Sanyal Anushka , Sharma Krishna , Wang Iris , Wang Kelly , Filsoof Amy , Charon Mina , Montacute Tamara , Singh Baldeep
Published: September 2024

Background:

Hypertension affects approximately 1 in 2 adults in the US. Home blood pressure (BP) monitoring programs are effective in the diagnosis and management of hypertension. Free clinics serve as an integral safety net for millions of uninsured and economically disadvantaged patients in the US. The feasibility and effects of a free home BP monitoring and follow-up program in a free clinic setting is not well characterized.

Methods:

This was a prospective study of the implementation of a pilot BP monitoring and follow-up program between March 2021 and August 2023 at 2 free clinics in the San Francisco Bay Area. A total of 78 hypertensive patients were enrolled in the program and given a free BP monitor. We surveyed via telephone the change in systolic and diastolic BPs and BP monitor use and comfort at 3 weeks. Volunteers in clinic roles involved in the BP monitoring program were surveyed to assess their time spent and perceptions of the program.

Results:

Of the 78 patients, 37 provided responses to the 3-week survey. A total of 36 of 37 (97%) patients reported using their BP monitor. A total of 35 patients reported using it at least once a week (95%), with the majority reporting at least four uses a week (68%). A total of 36 patients (97%) planned on continuing to use their BP monitor. At 3 weeks, the mean systolic and diastolic BP changed by −6.40 mmHg (95% CI, −10.8 to −2.01 mmHg; P = .00577) and −2.72 mmHg (95% CI, −5.62 to 0.188 mmHg; P = .0657), respectively. The time commitment for this program ranged from 130 ± 51 min for program leaders to 16 ± 14 min per week for patient-facing roles. All volunteer roles (patient-facing, phone follow-up, program leaders) expressed that they had a clear understanding of their responsibilities in the program (median 4 on Likert scale, IQR 3-5).

Conclusion:

Home BP monitoring and follow-up is feasible to implement in free clinics, resulting in high rates of patient engagement among respondents. Our findings suggest that home BP monitoring and follow-up programs may be beneficial in vulnerable patient populations.
Changes in Neonatal Intraoperative Electroencephalogram Alpha: Delta Ratios Precede Neurologic Injury
Authors: Swartz Michael F. , Lansinger Justin , Scheffler Emelie-Jo , Duncan Aubrey , Cholette Jill M. , Yoshitake Shuichi , Alfieris George M.
Published: September 2024

Background: Unrecognized intraoperative cerebral ischemia during neonatal aortic arch reconstruction may precede neurologic injury. Electroencephalogram (EEG) alpha:delta ratio (A:D) changes predict cerebral ischemia; however, if A:D differences can identify ischemia during neonatal antegrade cerebral perfusion (ACP) and aortic arch reconstruction is unknown. We hypothesized that A:D changes would precede neurologic injury. Methods: Simultaneous EEG derived left versus right: hemispheric and anterior cerebral A:Ds were retrospectively measured at baseline and every 5 min during arterial cannulation, cooling, ACP, and the rewarming phases of the operation. A paired left versus right A:D difference >25% was considered significant for ischemia, and the duration of a significant and continuous A:D difference was quantified in minutes. Neonates were divided into two groups: (1) new neurologic injury (stroke or seizure) and (2) no known neurologic injury. Results: From 72 neonates, there were no significant differences in the baseline A:Ds. Seven neonates (9.7%) developed a new neurologic injury (seizure = 3, stroke = 2, seizure and stroke = 2). Male gender and longer ACP times were significantly associated with neurologic injury. In neonates with a neurologic injury, the duration of a significant and continuous A:D difference was longer within the hemispheric and anterior regions. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that a significant and continuous anterior A:D difference (odds ratio: 1.345, 95% CI 1.058-1.712; P = .01) was independently associated with neurologic injury. Conclusions: A longer continuous anterior A:D difference > 25% was independently associated with neurologic injury. Intraoperative EEG monitoring could be considered during neonatal arch reconstruction.
Implementing Effective School-Based Mental Health Services: A Guide for School Counselors
Authors: Warren Jeffrey M. , Blount Taheera N. , Belle Genesis
Published: September 2024

Across the United States, the number of children with mental health conditions has continued to rise. However, access and utilization of mental health services vary greatly. School-based mental health complements comprehensive school counseling and provides an opportunity for K–12 students to receive needed treatment they may not otherwise have access to. School counselors are well positioned to support the development, implementation, and sustainability of effective school-based mental health programming. We provide an overview of implementation science and case examples that detail the school counselor’s role in this work.
Beyond the Fitness: A Big Data Analysis of Home Exercisers Demand
Authors: Jin Huilan , Chen Tingting , Shi Hanxiao
Published: September 2024

As a new method for health knowledge dissemination, the short video has promoted the development of health communication greatly. In the context of the post-epidemic era, we selected the short home fitness video a kind of short video to guide users to do exercise at home and impart health knowledge to users as the research object, to provide suggestions on how to make better use of short videos for health communication. Liu Genghong is a home fitness coach who has gained 60 million fans in 3 months by teaching in-door aerobics originated by himself, and short home fitness videos he released are representative. We selected short home fitness videos published by Liu Genghong on Tiktok as the research sample, and obtained relevant data through crawler code. We applied a uses and gratifications approach, which is a theory about analyzing the motivation of users, to use media to analyze the collected data. The analysis result indicated that users watch the home fitness video mainly because of health cognition, personal relations, idolatry and entertainment. This study enriches the related research on health communication and shows theoretical and practical significance.
Sea Turtle Conservation and Tourism: A Case Study in North Carolina
Authors: Randolph Yvette , Deale Cynthia S.
Published: September 2024

This case study focuses on the connections between sea turtles, volunteers, tourists, and other stakeholders in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina in the United States. Background information about sustainable tourism, stakeholder theory, and volunteerism is presented. Then, the dilemma of how to have both sea turtle conservation and sea turtle tourism co-exist is presented, along with complex issues, including those connected with education, training, and volunteerism. The case presents the issues involved with how to develop and maintain a balance between the environmental, socio-cultural, and economic aspects of sustainable tourism in connection with sea turtles.
Atypical Hangman’s Fractures: An Institutional Study of 51 Patients With Atypical Traumatic Spondylolisthesis of C2
Authors: Botros Mina , Singh Aman , Shaikh Hashim , Ramirez Gabriel , Molinari Robert W. , Puvanesarajah Varun
Published: September 2024

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives

Atypical hangman’s fractures are associated with increased risk for neurologic injury due to involvement of the posterior cortex of the axis body. We present the largest single-center cohort of atypical hangman’s fractures with the goal of guiding treatment decisions and outcomes based on fracture classification.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients with atypical hangman’s fractures treated at a single Level I trauma center between January 2010 and September 2023. 51 patients met inclusion criteria and demographic, treatment, and radiographic data were recorded and compared across the Type I and II fracture groups.

Results

Final treatment modalities varied significantly between the groups ( P < 0.01), with hard cervical collar and invasive halo immobilization being the most prevalent treatments for fracture Types I and II respectively. One Type I fracture patient and four Type II fracture patients failed non-operative treatment, requiring surgery. Across both groups, posterior cervical fusion (73%) was the most common surgical approach. Median length of stay varied significantly between the two fracture groups (2.0 (1.0-7.0) vs 5.0 (3.0-8.0) days; P = 0.01). Irrespective of fracture type, longer hospital length of stay was associated with increased patient age (IRR = 1.02; P < 0.01), non-white race (IRR = 2.47; P = 0.01), injury caused by MVC (IRR = 1.93; P < 0.01), and the presence of non-spine orthopedic injuries (IRR = 1.72; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

While atypical Type I hangman’s fractures may be managed effectively non-operatively with a hard cervical collar, atypical Type II fractures managed with a hard cervical collar are at greater risk of requiring subsequent surgical intervention.
Comparison of Subjective and Biomechanical Outcomes Between Proprioceptive Training and Modified Broström-Gould Surgery for Chronic Ankle Instability: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hou Zongchen , Ren Shuang , Hu Yuelin , Jiao Chen , Guo Qinwei , Li Nan , Miao Xin , Zhang Si , Jiang Dong
Published: September 2024

Background:

Both proprioceptive training and modified Broström-Gould surgery can improve ankle stability in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI), but further biomechanical evaluation is necessary to determine the optimal treatment.

Purpose:

To compare the clinical outcomes and biomechanical changes after proprioceptive training versus modified Broström-Gould surgery in patients with CAI.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 56 patients with CAI were assigned randomly to either a nonoperative group (n = 28) who underwent 3 months of proprioceptive training or an operative group (n = 28) who underwent modified Broström-Gould surgery. Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores, foot pressure during walking, center of pressure (COP) velocity, and time for the COP to reach the balance boundary (time to boundary [TTB]) during single-leg standing were collected before the intervention (baseline) and at 3, 6, and 12 months after the intervention. Two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to compare group differences and changes over time.

Results:

The nonoperative group had significant improvements from baseline in FAAM-Sports score and significantly decreased TTB in both the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions at all timepoints, while the operative group showed significant improvements only in FAAM-Sports scores and TTB and COP velocity in the anterior-posterior direction at 6 and 12 months postintervention. During walking, the nonoperative group had significantly increased peak force under the medial foot at 3 months, which dropped back to baseline levels at 12 months, while the operative group had significantly increased peak force under the medial midfoot and hindfoot that persisted until 12 months ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

In this study, both proprioceptive training and modified Broström-Gould surgery led to improved subjective functional scores, foot pressure distribution during walking, and postural stability during standing for patients with CAI but with different biomechanical patterns. Proprioceptive training led to an earlier recovery of sports function and better medial-lateral stability recovery, while surgery provided more persistent results.

Registration:

ChiCTR1900023999 (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry).
Adaptation to Noise in Spectrotemporal Modulation Detection and Word Recognition
Authors: López-Ramos David , Marrufo-Pérez Miriam I. , Eustaquio-Martín Almudena , López-Bascuas Luis E. , Lopez-Poveda Enrique A.
Published: September 2024

Noise adaptation is the improvement in auditory function as the signal of interest is delayed in the noise. Here, we investigated if noise adaptation occurs in spectral, temporal, and spectrotemporal modulation detection as well as in speech recognition. Eighteen normal-hearing adults participated in the experiments. In the modulation detection tasks, the signal was a 200ms spectrally and/or temporally modulated ripple noise. The spectral modulation rate was two cycles per octave, the temporal modulation rate was 10 Hz, and the spectrotemporal modulations combined these two modulations, which resulted in a downward-moving ripple. A control experiment was performed to determine if the results generalized to upward-moving ripples. In the speech recognition task, the signal consisted of disyllabic words unprocessed or vocoded to maintain only envelope cues. Modulation detection thresholds at 0 dB signal-to-noise ratio and speech reception thresholds were measured in quiet and in white noise (at 60 dB SPL) for noise-signal onset delays of 50 ms (early condition) and 800 ms (late condition). Adaptation was calculated as the threshold difference between the early and late conditions. Adaptation in word recognition was statistically significant for vocoded words (2.1 dB) but not for natural words (0.6 dB). Adaptation was found to be statistically significant in spectral (2.1 dB) and temporal (2.2 dB) modulation detection but not in spectrotemporal modulation detection (downward ripple: 0.0 dB, upward ripple: −0.4 dB). Findings suggest that noise adaptation in speech recognition is unrelated to improvements in the encoding of spectrotemporal modulation cues.
Comparison of the Effect of Two Therapeutic Interventions for the Treatment of Chronic Constipation in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Yousefi-Fatmesari Gholamreza , Chegene Lorestani Roya , Rostamian Mosayeb , Khodamoradi Sepideh , Sedighi Mostafa , Daryoushi Hooman , Norouzi Masoud , Hoseini Jamal , Ghadiri Keyghobad
Published: September 2024

Objectives. Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal symptoms in children with neurological disorders. This study was performed to compare the therapeutic effect of polyethylene glycol (PEG) plus domperidone with PEG plus placebo in the treatment of chronic constipation in children with cerebral palsy.  Methods. In this a double-blind clinical trial study was done on the children with cerebral palsy who had chronic constipation and was referred to Mohammad Kermanshahi hospital of Kermanshah city in the west of Iran. The participants were randomly divided into 2 groups with 2 therapies of PEG combined with domperidone (case group, n = 21) and PEG with placebo (control group, n = 21). The information was extracted from patients based on the checklist before and after treatment and the response to treatment in the 2 groups were determined and compared. The data were analyzed by T-test or Mann–Whitney U test to compare quantitative variables and Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests for comparing qualitative variables.  Results. In both case and control groups, all Rome IV criteria for a diagnosis of chronic constipation except incontinence were significantly reduced after treatment. However, the successful response rate in the case group (PEG + domperidone) was 90.5%, while this rate was 61.9% in the control group.  Conclusion. Based on the results of the present study, it seems that PEG plus domperidone had a positive effect on the treatment of children with cerebral palsy and chronic constipation.
Differences in Emotional Intelligence Between Male and Female Nursing Students From a Population With a Low Percentage of Male Nurses
Authors: Laskowski Karol , Paszkiewicz Justyna , Szepeluk Adam , Hozyasz Kamil K.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Poland has the largest shortage of nurses in Europe, as well as a low percentage of male nurses. Information relating to emotional intelligence has been explored to determine whether it predicts the characteristics and outcomes of qualified health professionals during their academic training and practice.

Objective

This study aimed to measure differences in emotional intelligence between male and female nursing students.

Participants and methods

In this cross-sectional study, emotional intelligence was measured using the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT) in 21 male and 127 female nursing students from John Paul II University in Biała Podlaska, Poland.

Results

The raw overall scores of emotional intelligence in male and female students were similar. Differences were observed after the conversion of raw scores into normalized (sten) scores. High normalized scores (sten 8–10) of emotional intelligence had every third of male students and only 14.2% of female students. The lowest sten values of emotional intelligence in male and female students were 3 and 1, respectively. Less than 10% of male students and over 20% of female students had low normalized scores (sten ≤3) for emotional intelligence and an isolated ability to recognize emotions (factor II).

Conclusions

The emotional intelligence expressed in normalized scores was higher in male nursing students than in female nursing students. This evidence may suggest that, at the stage of choosing a field of study, Polish male nursing students self-select for the nursing profession, at least in terms of emotional intelligence. The influx of men into the profession should be considered as a positive trend.