bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodological challenges and insights for researching embodied learning in museums
Authors: Price Sara , Manches Andrew , Lindgren Robb , Lane H Chad
Published: July 2024

Embodied learning is a nascent term drawing on theories emphasising the role of the body, and body-based interaction in knowledge creation. Whilst embodied learning research has articulated pedagogical and design implications which resonate with museum practice and emphasis on hands-on approaches, translation between embodied learning research and everyday practice is limited. A key challenge is conducting research that is both methodologically rigorous whilst providing tractable implications for complex practice contexts. Whilst this tension is endemic in educational research, the field of embodied learning presents unique challenges. Here, we draw on experiences from a four-year, multisite, academic-practitioner research project investigating embodied learning with young children (3–6 years) in science centres/museums to synthesise, illustrate, and critically reflect on four key challenges: theoretical framing (how embodied learning is conceptualised), nature of the experience (what makes it embodied), evaluating embodied learning, and logistical challenges (capturing multiple modes of interaction, social context, communication). These challenges are illustrated through case studies, contributing a methodological lens for both academics and practitioners investigating the role and implications of embodied learning in museums.
Perceived Cognitive Function and Glycemic Variability: Baseline Results From a Cognitive Rehabilitation Intervention
Authors: Cuevas Heather , Stuifbergen Alexa K. , Hilsabeck Robin , Kim Jeeyeon , Wood Shenell
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between glucose variability, diabetes self-management, and cognitive function in participants enrolled in a cognitive rehabilitation intervention for people with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Baseline data from the Memory, Attention, and Problem-Solving Skills for Diabetes randomized controlled trial (n = 95; mean age 65.6 years, SD 5.99; 59.3% female; 59% non-Hispanic White) were analyzed and included scores from the PROMIS Cognitive Function version 2, a measure of perceived cognitive function; glucose variability measurements from continuous glucose monitors; and scores on the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities Survey.

Results

Participants had higher levels of perceived cognitive dysfunction than the US average. Lower PROMIS scores were associated with higher levels of glucose variability. Better perceived cognitive health was related to better diabetes self-management. Glucose variability, measured by the coefficient of variation, was a significant predictor of perceived cognitive function.

Conclusions

Perceived cognitive function was associated with diabetes self-management and glucose variability. Understanding this association can support the development of interventions to mitigate effects associated with glucose variability and changes in cognitive function. Including measurements of perceived cognitive function in assessments has the potential to alert health care providers about the need for additional support in diabetes management and the possibility of cognitive impairment that may need further objective assessment.
Adjusting Central and Eastern United States ground-motion models for use in the Coastal Plain considering the sediment thickness
Authors: Akhani Mohsen , Davatgari-Tafreshi Mehran , Pezeshk Shahram
Published: July 2024

This study aims to develop adjustment factors for ground-motion models such as Pezeshk et al., which were developed for regions outside the Coastal Plain to be used for sites within the Coastal Plain region. The adjustment factors developed are a function of sediment thickness and rupture distance [Formula: see text] in the Coastal Plain region. We use the newly developed sediment thickness contour maps by Boyd et al. Also, the adjustment factors are developed using a combined data set, which consists of the Next Generation Attenuation (NGA)-East original data set, the data set from Chapman and Guo, and the newly compiled and verified data set by Thompson et al. We calculate residuals by taking the difference between the logarithms of the observed data and those predicted by the Pezeshk et al. ground-motion model (GMM), considering the site amplification model of Stewart et al. and utilizing the combined data set. This model is applicable for [Formula: see text] as far as 1000 km. We perform residual analyses using a mixed-effects regression to partition the total residuals into between-event and within-event components. To develop the correction factors for stations within the Coastal Plain region, we fit the within-event residuals to an equation that is a function of sediment thickness and [Formula: see text]. The results indicate that for stations within the Coastal Plain region, for most periods, the residual trend has been eliminated (with respect to sediment thickness, [Formula: see text], and time-averaged shear wave velocity in the first 30 m under the surface, V S30) using the proposed adjustment factors. The results of this study can be utilized in seismic hazard and risk analyses for sites within the Coastal Plain.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Bilateral Meromelia Coexisting With Duodenal Atresia: Case Report of a Rare Anomalous Combination With Three-Dimensional Sonography
Authors: Muftiat Omolola Ameen , Ibraheem Olayemi Awowole , Zainab Foyeke Abdur-Rahim , Abdulmujeeb Opeyemi Muhammad-Olodo
Published: July 2024

A rare case of bilateral fetal meromelia with duodenal atresia (DA) was diagnosed on three-dimensional (3D) sonography. A 32-year-old G3P2002 with a large for date uterus, was reviewed at 26 weeks’ gestation. The 3D sonogram confirmed the presence of the humerus, olecranon process, and only the proximal third of the ulna bone, bilaterally. The distal ulna, radius, metacarpals, and phalanges were absent on both upper limbs. The bones of the lower limbs were present and appropriate for gestational age. Further evaluation revealed the “double bubble” sign, which is characteristic of DA within the fetal abdomen. The patient was induced 2 weeks later, due to intrauterine fetal demise. The suspected fetal anomalies were confirmed at birth. A high index of suspicion and a detailed sonographic evaluation are essential for detecting rare fetal anomalies, such as meromelia.
The Status of Intima-Media Thickness of Bilateral Carotid Arteries in the Postinfection Phase of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Yahyaei Ferizhendi Hosna , Dahmardeh Hamid , Parsi-Moud Abolfazl
Published: July 2024

Objective:

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) affects the cardiovascular system by activating systemic inflammatory responses that cause vascular dysfunction. However, the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the cardiovascular system remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) between patients who have recovered from Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) and healthy individuals to evaluate the feasibility of vascular complications in the postinfection phase of COVID-19.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, the cIMT was compared between 47 recovered patients with severe COVID-19 and 42 healthy individuals without a history of COVID-19 (controls) using Doppler sonography. Demographic and sonographic data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 statistical software.

Results:

A total of 47 young adults (30.8 ± 5.78 years, 7 men and 40 women) were evaluated 3 to 6 months after hospitalization for severe COVID-19, and were compared with 42 young healthy individuals (26.5 ± 5.85 years, 5 men and 37 women). The mean right and left cIMT were significantly lower in recovered COVID-19 patients than in healthy individuals (right cIMT: case group, 0.38 ± 05 mm vs control group, 0.40 ± 0.02 mm, P < .01; left cIMT: case group, 0.38 ± 0.05 mm vs control group, 0.40 ± 0.02, P < .01).

Conclusion:

A history of positive SARS-CoV-2 was associated with lower cIMT compared with controls. In this cohort, endothelial dysfunction may not have been the main driver of COVID-19 complications in recovered patients. However, more studies should be conducted on the relationship between cIMT and vascular complications.
Obesity-associated outcomes after ACL reconstruction: a propensity-score-matched analysis of the US Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2005–2018
Authors: Fang Zhaoyi , Liu Wenxin
Published: July 2024

Background

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common among physically active individuals, and obesity may increase the risk of such injuries due to factors like biomechanical stress on the knee. We aimed to determine if obesity affects postoperative outcomes after ACL reconstruction.

Methods

Data from adults aged 20 years and older with ACL injuries who underwent inpatient reconstruction from 2005 to 2018 were extracted from the United States (US) Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of co-existing obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2. Propensity-score matching (PSM) was employed to balance between-group differences. Associations between obesity and concomitant meniscus injury, length of stay (LOS), post-procedural complications, and non-routine discharge were examined using univariate and multivariable logistic and linear regressions.

Results

After PSM, data from 1323 patients (representing 6396 individuals in the US) were analyzed. Of these, 441 (33%) were classified as obese, while 882 (67%) were not obese. After adjustment, obesity was significantly associated with a longer LOS (adjusted beta (aBeta) = 0.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.31–0.321) and an increased likelihood of non-routine discharge (adjusted OR (aOR) = 2.18, 95% CI 1.47–3.22). There were no significant associations between obesity and concomitant meniscus injury (aOR = 1.04, 95% CI 0.81–1.32) or post-procedural complications (aOR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.74–1.27).

Conclusions

In patients undergoing ACL reconstruction in the US, obesity is independently associated with a longer LOS and a higher risk of non-routine discharge. Nevertheless, obesity does not appear to be associated with concomitant meniscus injury or post-procedural complications.
Unemployment’s long shadow: the persistent impact on social exclusion
Authors: Pohlan Laura
Published: July 2024

This paper studies the long-term consequences of unemployment on different dimensions of social exclusion. Based on longitudinal linked survey and administrative data from Germany and an event study analysis combined with inverse propensity score weighting, I document that becoming unemployed has lasting adverse effects on both individuals’ material well-being and their subjective perception of social status and integration, persisting even after four years. An examination of effect heterogeneity underscores that the enduring effects of job loss are more pronounced for individuals confronted with challenging labor market conditions, those with a history of repeated unemployment, and individuals with lower levels of educational attainment.
Effect of medication adherence on quality of life, activation measures, and health imagine in the elderly people: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Albadrani Muayad Saud , Aljeelani Yousef Omar , Farsi Safwan Hatem , Aljohani Mohammed Ali , Qarh Abdulrahman Abdullah , Aljohani Ahmed Saleh , Alharbi Abdulrahman Awadallah , A. Tobaiqi Muhammad Abubaker , Aljohani Atallah Mohammad , Alzaman Naweed SyedKhaleel , Fadlalmola Hammad Ali
Published: July 2024

Background

Usually, old age brings a poor quality of life due to illness and frailty. To prolong their lives and ensure their survival, all elderly patients with chronic diseases must adhere to their medications. In our study, we investigate medication adherence for elderly patients and its impact on the general health of the patient.

Methods

We implemented a cross-sectional survey‐based study with four sections in April 2022 in Saudi Arabia. Data about the participants’ demographic characteristics, the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, Patient Activation Measure (PAM) 13, and EQ-5D-5 L.

Results

A total of 421 patients participated in this study, their mean age was 60.4 years, and most of them were males. Most of our population is living independently 87.9%. The vast majority of people have a low adherence record in the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (8-MMAS) classes (score = < 6). Moreover, the average PAM13 score is 51.93 (Level2) indicating a low level of confidence and sufficient knowledge to take action. Our analysis showed a significant correlation between socioeconomic status and medication adherence. Also, there was an association between housing status and medication adherence. On the other hand, we found no correlation between medication adherence and quality of life (QOL) by EQ-5D-5 L.

Conclusion

Medication adherence is directly affected by living arrangements, as patients who live with a caretaker who can remind them to take their medications at the appropriate times have better medication adherence than those who live alone. Medication adherence was also significantly influenced by socioeconomic status, perhaps as a result of psychological effects and the belief of the lower-salaried population that they would be unable to afford the additional money required to cure any comorbidities that arose as a result of the disease. On the other hand, we did not find any correlation between medication adherence and quality of life. Finally, awareness of the necessity of adherence to medication for the elderly is essential.
MicroRNAs utilization as effective factors on hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, its outcomes and prognosis; a comprehensive systematic review
Authors: Habibollahzadeh Negar , Yavari Samin , Mirazimi Yasin , Aghayan Amir Hossein , Davoudian Atefeh , Rafiee Mohammad
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The therapeutic method for many malignant and non-malignant diseases is hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), but it is not always fully successful in all patients. Indeed, HSCT can be influenced by a variety of factors. Here we reviewed the effect of microRNAs (miRs) on HSCT-related outcomes, like survival, infections, relapse, engraftment, and so on, systematically.

Method

WOS, Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ProQuest databases were searched. The PRISMA guideline was performed, and 24 studies were included through quality assessment. Classified data extraction was done based on the type of disease.

Results

The systematic review identified 47 miRs effective on HSCT. The role of miRs as tumor suppressors or oncogenes is reported in acute myeloblastic and lymphoblastic leukemia patients undergoing HSCT due to their effects on overall or event-free survival. Additionally, relapse after HSCT in multiple myeloma is correlated with miRs expression. Also, recovery from post-autologous HSCT cytopenia or platelet and neutrophil engraftment can be influenced by miRs. We highlighted here reports on specific miRs.

Conclusion

We reported prognostic miRs for in-depth clinical management of the HSCT process and its outcomes. Also, miRs are introduced for the prevention of HSCT-related complications, and future studies are suggested to evaluate personalized medicine’s utilization of miRs in therapeutic methods like HSCT in neoplasia.
Study on leukapheresis of hyperleukocytic acute myeloid leukemia through in vitro centrifugation
Authors: Pan Ruiyang , Xu Anjie , Liu Li , Wu Jinxian , Li Xinqi , Chen Guopeng , Li Ruihang , Yin Wanyue , Liu Dandan , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhou Fuling
Published: July 2024

Respiratory failure, intracranial hemorrhage and infection were more common in hyperleukocytic acute myeloid leukemia patients than in non-hyperleukocytic leukemia patients. Compared with non-apheresis treatment, the white blood cells decreased significantly and the infection rate decreased after apheresis treatment. However, the treatment time of leukapheresis in patients with hyperleukocytic leukemia is very long, while it is more damaging to cells. In this study, which conducted a retrospective analysis on patients with hyperleukocytic acute myeloid leukemia, the process of centrifugation of normal cells and patients’ cells by apheresis machine was simulated in vitro. Through selecting 5 healthy persons and 11 patients with hyperleukocytic acute myeloid leukemia, extracting their blood samples and performing in vitro centrifugation at different speeds or duration, we observed the changes of the numbers and morphology of peripheral blood cells in healthy people and patients, so as to explore the optimal centrifugation parameters during leukapheresis. The cells obtained by the optimal centrifugation parameters were cryopreserved and two groups of mice (10 mice in each group) were used to establish leukemia animal models. Through the research, it is found that when the centrifugal speed is below 6000 rpm, the damage to blood cells in healthy people and in patients with hyperleukocytic leukemia is not obvious. When the centrifugal speed is above 6000 rpm, the platelets will be damaged significantly. The cells obtained under the optimal centrifugation parameters can be successfully cryopreserved and used to establish leukemia animal models. This study is of great significance for improving the efficiency and reducing the side effects of leukapheresis, and is helpful to improve the treatment of white blood cells reduction.
Retinal integrity in human babesiosis: a pilot study
Authors: Dionne Elyssa , Adelman Ron A. , Cekic Osman , Golden Marjorie , Moffarah Anne Spichler , Krause Peter J. , Farhadian Shelli F.
Published: July 2024

Background

Prior case reports and animal studies have reported on potential ophthalmologic complications of babesiosis, but this issue has not previously been addressed in a cohort of patients with babesiosis. This cross-sectional descriptive pilot study evaluated the retinas of patients with acute babesiosis to determine if retinal abnormalities are a feature of the disease.

Methods

We screened all patients admitted to Yale New Haven Hospital with laboratory confirmed babesiosis during the summer of 2023 and obtained informed consent. Patients were interviewed and underwent pupil dilation and a retinal examination using an indirect ophthalmoscope. Demographic and clinical information were obtained by questionnaire and through chart review.

Results

Ten patients underwent retinal eye exams with results that were generally unremarkable. No study patients showed any signs of retinal inflammation, infection, retinal bleeding, retinal tears, or abnormal vessel formation that could be attributed to infection.

Conclusion

This small study did not find evidence of retinopathy in patients with babesiosis. Further studies with larger populations, repeated exams, and long term follow up will further elucidate the potential small vessel complications of human babesiosis.
Serum neurofilament light chain levels are associated with depression among US adults: a cross-sectional analysis among US adults, 2013–2014
Authors: Song Ying , Jiao Huili , Weng Qi , Liu Hang , Yi Li
Published: July 2024

Background

Serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) has been identified as a biomarker for neurologic diseases. However, sNfL remains unknown to be responsible for depression.

Aims

The aim of this research was to explore the relationship between sNfL levels and depression in US adults.

Methods

In this cross-sectional survey of the general population, we investigated representative data involving 10,175 participants from the 2013–2014 cycle of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Depression was diagnosed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). The effect of related factors on depression was analyzed by conducting a univariate analysis. Stratified analysis was utilized to detect the stability and sensitivity of the relationship. After adjusting for race, education, marital status, smoking status, body mass index (BMI), sleep duration, income, and a history of hypertension, sedentary behavior and stroke, multivariable linear regression was performed to demonstrate the correlation between sNfL and depression.

Results

A total of 1301 individuals between the ages of 20 and 75 were involved in this investigation, of which 108 (8.3%) were diagnosed with depression. A significant positive correlation between sNfL and depression among adults in the US was observed by conducting univariable analyses. After adjusting for confounding factors, the multivariate analyses indicated that elevated sNfL levels might play a pivotal role in the development of depression (odds ratio (OR) = 3.0; 95% confidence interval (CI): (1.5, 6.1), P = 0.002).

Conclusion

These results indicated that sNfL is closely linked to depression in a nationally representative individual. However, further studies are needed to confirm the biological mechanism as well as the clinical implications of sNfL and depression.
Survey on health literacy and related factors among firefighters of emergency management departments in Southwest China
Authors: Jiang Peijie , Chen Quanxin , Liu Ruifeng , Peng Tingchun , Zhao Haili , Chen Jian , Xin Junguo , Yang Xiaohong
Published: July 2024

Objective

Although health literacy (HL) has emerged as a critical public health concern, research on HL in emergency management departments is limited. This study aimed to investigate the awareness of HL and associated factors among firefighters of emergency management departments in southwest China to provide a basis for carrying out targeted health education.

Methods

A cross-sectional convenience sample of 1,742 firefighters from an emergency management department in southwestern China was surveyed from February to April 2023 using the Chinese Citizen’s Health Literacy Questionnaire (2019 version). The chi-square test, linear trend chi-square test, Fisher’s test, rank sum test, and multifactorial logistic regression model were used to identify influential factors associated with HL.

Results

The HL level of the 1742 respondents was 34.3%. Age, ethnicity, education level, length of service, type of job, smoking status, types of parental jobs, annual household income, time of daily internet use, etc. (P < 0.05). The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis indicate that type of job (OR = 0.648, 95%CI:0.426–0.985), length of service (OR = 0.496, 95%CI:0.251–0.981), household income (OR = 1.900, 95%CI:1.443–2.502), daily internet usage time (OR = 0.726, 95%Cl:0.588–0.896), health status (OR = 0.750, 95%Cl:0.585–0.962) and frequency of organizing HL sessions (OR = 1.603, 95%Cl:1.101–2.330) were influencing factors affecting the HL of the officers and soldiers.

Conclusion

The health literacy level of firefighters in the Emergency Management Department in Southwest China was 34.3%. Lower levels were found in the health-related skills dimension (HRS, 30.1%) and in infectious disease control (ID, 30.7%). Health information literacy (HI, 34.3%) was lower than the national level. The type of urban and rural areas, literacy level, and household income level may be the factors affecting the level of health literacy among the respondents. Therefore, health education and promotion interventions should target high priority dimensions (HRS, HI, and ID) and should focus on strengthening health literacy levels of firefighters with rural types, low education levels, and low household income to improve their health.
Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections, and its associated factors among students in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis study
Authors: Bogale Eyob Ketema , Anagaw Tadele Fentabel , Tiruneh Misganaw Guadie , Fenta Eneyew Talie , Endeshaw Destaw , Delie Amare Mebrat , Adal Ousman , Tareke Abiyu Abadi
Published: July 2024

Background

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are illnesses mainly spread through unprotected sexual activity. There is a scarcity of aggregate evidence in Ethiopia. The aim of this review was to assess the pooled prevalence of STI, and its associated factors among students in Ethiopia to fill the aforementioned gap.

Methods

We extensively searched the bibliographic databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to obtain eligible studies. Further screening for a reference list of articles was also done. The Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet was used to extract data, and Stata 17 was used for analysis. The PRISMA-guidline and Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale were used for quality appraisal. To check heterogeneity, the Higgs I2 and Cochran’s Q tests were employed. Sensitivity and subgroup analysis were implemented. To detect publication bias, Egger’s test and funnel plots were used.

Results

The pooled prevalence of STI among students in Ethiopia was 13.6% with a 95% CI (10.2, 17). Findings from sub group analysis based on student category shows that the pooled prevalence of STI were 14.5% among University students, 14.2% among college students and 10.6% among high school students. Having multiple sexual partners (AOR 3.31; 95% CI: 2.40–4.57), not using condoms during sexual intercourse (AOR 2.56; 95% CI: 1.72–3.81), and having poor knowledge about sexually transmitted infections were 3.08 times (AOR 3.08; 95% CI: 1.84–5.15) significantly associated with STI.

Conclusion

The pooled prevalence of STIs among students in Ethiopia was high, and factors like having multiple sexual partners, not using condoms during sexual intercourse, and having poor knowledge about sexually transmitted infections were significantly associated with STIs. Hence, reduce STIs among students, strengthening sexual and reproductive health services, raising awareness about transmission and prevention, and promoting consistent condom use through health information dissemination is crucial. Further qualitative studies are suggested to explore the barriers and facilitators of STI prevention.
Factors predicting long-term outcomes following physiotherapy in patients with subacromial pain syndrome: a secondary analysis
Authors: Kromer Thilo Oliver , Kohl Matthias , Bastiaenen Caroline H.G.
Published: July 2024

Background

Although patients with shoulder complaints are frequently referred to physiotherapy, putative predictive factors for outcomes are still unclear. In this regard, only a limited amount of scientific data for patients with subacromial pain syndrome exist, with inconsistent results. An improved knowledge about the ability of baseline variables to predict outcomes could help patients make informed treatment decisions, prevent them from receiving ineffective treatments, and minimize the risk of developing chronic pain.

Aim

The aims of this secondary longitudinal analysis are threefold: First, to investigate baseline differences between patients with and without successful long-term outcomes following physiotherapy. Second, to compare the predictive ability of two sets of putative predictive variables on outcomes, one based on the literature and one based on the data of the original trial. Third, to explore the contribution of short-term follow-up data to predictive models.

Methods

Differences between responders and nonresponders were calculated. The predictive ability of variables defined through literature and of variables based on the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) from the original trial dataset on the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index and the Patients’ Global Impression of Change at the one-year follow-up were analyzed. To test the robustness of the results, different statistical models were used. To investigate the contribution of follow-up data to prediction, short-term data were included in the analyses.

Results

A sample of 87 patients with subacromial pain syndrome was analyzed. 77% (n = 67) of these participants were classified as responders. Higher expectations and short-term change scores were positive, and higher fear avoidance beliefs, greater baseline disability and pain levels were negative predictors of long-term outcomes in patients with subacromial pain syndrome.

Conclusions

Although our results are in line with previous research and support the use of clinical factors for prediction, our findings suggest that psychological factors, especially patient expectations and fear avoidance beliefs, also contribute to long-term outcomes and should therefore be considered in the clinical context and further research. However, the hypotheses and recommendations generated from our results need to be confirmed in further studies due to their explorative nature.

Trial registration

The original trial was registered at Current Controlled Trials under the trial registration number ISRCTN86900354 on March 17, 2010.
Meta-analysis of the accuracy of the serum procalcitonin diagnostic test for osteomyelitis in children
Authors: Qi Han , Zhu Dongsheng , Wang Xiaodong , Wu Jian
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study sought to assess the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive utility of serum procalcitonin (PCT) in the diagnosis of pediatric osteomyelitis.

Methods

A systematic computer-based search was conducted for eligible literature focusing on PCT for the diagnosis of osteomyelitis in children. Records were manually screened according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager software 5.3, Meta-disc software1.4, STATA 12.0, and R 3.4 software.

Result

A total of 5 investigations were included. Of these, 148 children with osteomyelitis were tested for bacterial cultures in PCT. For PCT in the diagnosis of pediatric osteomyelitis, diagnostic meta-analysis revealed a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 0.58 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.49 to 0.68) and 0.92 (95% CI: 0.90 to 0.93) respectively. The PCT had the greatest area under the curve (AUC) at 0.80 for the diagnosis of osteomyelitis in children. The Deeks’ regression test for asymmetry results indicated that there was no publication bias when evaluating publication bias (P = 0.90).

Concusion

This study provided a comprehensive review of the literature on the use of PCT in pediatric osteomyelitis diagnosis. PCT may be used as a biomarker for osteomyelitis diagnosis; however, its sensitivity was low. It still needs to be validated by a large sample study.
Association of tooth loss and nutritional status in adults: an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Kaurani Pragati , Kakodkar Pradnya , Bhowmick Anamitra , Samra Rupandeep Kaur , Bansal Vineeta
Published: July 2024

Background

Association of tooth loss and nutritional status has been widely researched with conflicting results. This overview aimed to analyse and summarize findings from systematic reviews on association of tooth loss with nutritional status, in view of their quality assessment and methodological characteristics.

Methods

Overview was conducted as per Cochrane Overviews of Reviews guidelines. 5 databases (PubMed, Dentistry and Oral Sciences Source, Scopus, Cochrane Register of Systematic Reviews, Epistemonikos.org) and one online source (Google Scholar) were searched for systematic reviews published between 2010 - July 2022, with inclusion criteria; population: participants aged 18 years or above, intervention/exposure: loss of teeth, comparison: not applicable, outcome: nutritional status, study: systematic reviews and meta-analysis. Reviews on association of prosthetic interventions with nutritional status were not included. Data were extracted for study characteristics, details of primary studies, and main findings. Narrative synthesis of data, overlap of primary studies and quality assessment of studies were done using AMSTAR 2 tool (A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews).

Result

Of 1525 articles found, seven systematic reviews were selected (four were systematic reviews, three were systematic reviews with meta-analysis). Five studies showed some or positive association, one found weak association and for one study the association was unclear. Overlap of primary studies was ‘very slight’. Meta-analysis of two studies concluded fully or partially edentulous individuals were more likely to be malnourished or at risk of malnutrition, (RR = 1.095, 95% CI 1.007 to 1.190, p = 0.033. RR = 1.22; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.32 p < 0.01), but one found that edentulism was not associated with malnutrition. (RR = 1.072, 95% CI 0.9657-1.200). Quality assessment revealed four studies were ‘high’, one was ‘low’ and two were ‘critically low.’

Conclusion

This overview confirms the association between tooth loss and nutritional status specially in elderly. It is evident that tooth loss increases the likelihood of poor nutritional status. Overall, studies show high heterogeneity in the methodology and quality assessment reveals low confidence in the available evidence. Future studies should use standard assessment tools for tooth loss and nutritional status.
Spotlight on nurses' smoking prevalence and addiction in Istanbul, Türkiye, the leading country in the implementation of WHO MPOWER policies
Authors: Bayramlar Osman Faruk , Uysal Gulgun Sabire , Kocak Elif Nur , Surme Serkan , Karabey Selma
Published: July 2024

Objective

Türkiye is the leading country that has been applying the MPOWER criteria of the World Health Organization for years. However, the prevalence of smoking among nurses appears to be high, according to the literature. Therefore, we aimed to determine the prevalence, addiction levels, and dynamics of tobacco smoking among nurses in Türkiye.

Method

In this descriptive cross-sectional study, a questionnaire (prepared in cooperation with the “World Health Organization”) and the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence were administered to 529 nurses working at a tertiary-care university hospital in 2020. Logistic regression was performed to determine factors predicting smoking.

Results

The prevalence of smoking among nurses was 32.7% (n = 173). The mean Fagerström test score indicated a "low dependence" level (score: 3 ± 2.6). Both results were higher for males. A relationship was found between trying smoking cigarette and hookah. Of the “current smokers” group, 102 (60.4%) stated that they wanted to quit smoking. Only 21 (27.6%) of the nurses who have tried to quit smoking thus far have received professional help.

Conclusion

The prevalence of smoking among nurses working at a tertiary-care university hospital was relatively low compared to that among nurses in Türkiye. While females are normally expected to smoke less, the high prevalence of smoking among nurses (most of them female) raises the question of the professional basis of this situation. However, the low rate of receiving professional help reveals the lack of promotion and accessibility of smoking cessation outpatient clinics in the faculty environment. Finally, the perception that hookah is an alternative tobacco product leads to cigarette smoking. The good news was that nurses had a low dependency rate.
“Somewhere along the line, your mask isn’t going to be fitting right”: institutional racism in Black narratives of traumatic brain injury rehabilitation across the practice continuum
Authors: Omar Samira , Williams Charmaine C. , Bugg Laura B. , Colantonio Angela
Published: July 2024

Background

Over two decades of research about traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation emphasized the persistence of racial health disparities in functional outcomes that disproportionately impact Black populations without naming or addressing racism as the root problem. Further, the experiences of Black people with TBI have yet to be documented and accounted for in scientific scholarship from the perspectives of Black persons in Canada.

Purpose

This study intended to examine the rehabilitation narratives of Black TBI survivors, family caregivers, and rehabilitation providers and use critical race theory as a conceptual framework to understand how anti-Black racism manifests in those experiences.

Methods

Through critical narrative inquiry informed by a critical constructivist paradigm and a critical race theory lens, in-depth narrative interviewing were conducted with seven survivors, three family caregivers, and four rehabilitation providers. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis within and across groups of participants to conceptualize themes and sub-themes.

Findings

Themes captured how racism becomes institutionalized in TBI rehabilitation: (1) the institutional construction of deficient Black bodies, (2) the institutional construction of rehabilitation access, (3) the institutional investment in resisting and approximating whiteness in rehabilitation practice, and (4) the institutional construction of deficient Black futures.

Conclusion

Study findings point to the dire need to ensure rehabilitation programs, services, and the delivery of care are not determined based on inequitable practices, racial biases and assumptions about Black people, which determine who deserves to get into rehabilitation and have opportunities to be supported in working towards living a full and meaningful life.
Decomposing socioeconomic inequality in household out of pocket health expenditures in Pakistan (2010-11–2018-19)
Authors: Zubair Muhammad , Naz Lubna , Sriram Shyamkumar
Published: July 2024

Background

The increased socioeconomic inequality in catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) disproportionately affects disadvantaged populations, subjecting them to financial hardships, limiting their access to healthcare, and exacerbating their vulnerability to morbidity.

Objectives

This study examines changes in socioeconomic inequality related to CHE and analyzes the contributing factors responsible for these changes in Pakistan between 2010-11 and 2018-19.

Methods

This paper extracted the data on out-of-pocket health expenditures from the National Health Accounts for 2009-10 and 2017-18. Sociodemographic information was gathered from the Household Integrated Economic Surveys of 2010-11 and 2018-19. CHE was calculated using budget share and the ability-to-pay approaches. To assess socioeconomic inequality in CHE in 2010-11 and 2018-19, both generalized and standard concentration indices were used, and Wagstaff inequality decomposition analysis was employed to explore the causes of socioeconomic inequality in each year. Further, an Oaxaca-type decomposition was applied to assess changes in socioeconomic inequality in CHE over time.

Results

The concentration index reveals that socioeconomic inequality in CHE decreased in 2018-19 compared to 2010-11 in Pakistan. Despite the reduction in inequality, CHE was concentrated among the poor in Pakistan in 2010-11 and 2018-19. The inequality decomposition analysis revealed that wealth status was the main cause of inequality in CHE over time. The upper wealth quantiles indicated a positive contribution, whereas lower quantiles showed a negative contribution to inequality in CHE. Furthermore, urban residence contributed to pro-rich inequality, whereas employed household heads, private healthcare provider, and inpatient healthcare utilization contributed to pro-poor inequality. A noticeable decline in socioeconomic inequality in CHE was observed between 2010 and 2018. However, inequality remained predominantly concentrated among the lower socio-economic strata.

Conclusion

These results underscore the need to improve the outreach of subsidized healthcare and expand social safety nets.
Reply to Ghobadi and Jafari: diet quality in relation to the risk of hypertension among Iranian adults: cross-sectional analysis of Fasa PERSIAN cohort study
Authors: Motamedi Amir , Ekramzadeh Maryam , Bahramali Ehsan , Farjam Mojtaba , Homayounfar Reza
Published: July 2024

Ghobadi and Jafari have mentioned some points about our article titled “Diet quality in relation to the risk of hypertension among Iranian adults: cross-sectional analysis of Fasa PERSIAN cohort study” which was published in the Nutrition Journal. Thanks for their consideration, the following is provided as a response to their comments.
Utilization of the Caprini risk assessment model(RAM) to predict venous thromboembolism after primary hip and knee arthroplasty: an analysis of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project(HCUP)
Authors: Lin Zhencan , Sun Hao , Chen Meiyi , Li Deng , Cai Zhiqing , Wang Yimin , Xu Jie , Ma Ruofan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the potential role of Caprini risk assessment model (RAM) in predicting the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA). No national study has investigated the role of Caprini RAM after primary THA/TKA.

Methods

Data from The National Sample of Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) in 2019 were utilized for this study. The dataset consisted of 229,134 patients who underwent primary THA/TKA. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) were considered as VTE. The incidence of thrombosis was calculated based on different Caprini scores, and the risk of the Caprini indicator for VTE events was evaluated using a forest plot.

Results

The prevalence of VTE after primary THA/TKA in the U.S. population in 2019 was found to be 4.7 cases per 1000 patients. Age, body mass index (BMI), and Caprini score showed a positive association with the risk of VTE (P < 0.05). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated that a Caprini score of 9.5 had a sensitivity of 47.2% and a specificity of 82.7%, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.693 (95% CI, 0.677−0.710). The highest Youden index was 0.299. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that malignancy, varicose vein, positive blood test for thrombophilia, history of thrombosis, COPD, hip fracture, blood transfusion, and age were significant risk factors for VTE. Based on these findings, a new risk stratification system incorporating the Caprini score was proposed.

Conclusions

Although the Caprini score does not seem to be a good predictive model for VTE after primary THA/TKA, new risk stratification for the Caprini score is proposed to increase its usefulness.
Ascorbic acid alleviates rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of autoantibodies
Authors: Yin Yuye , Wu Shusheng
Published: July 2024

Background

Ascorbic acid can regulate the function of the immune system. This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of ascorbic acid in plasma cell differentiation and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Mice were intraperitoneally injected with either ascorbic acid or an equivalent volume of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). To elucidate the effects of ascorbic acid on arthritis, we utilized a collagen induced arthritis mouse model (CIA). To investigate the effects of ascorbic acid on antibody response, mice were immunized with (4-Hydroxy-3-nitrophenylacetyl)-Ficoll (NP-Ficoll) or (4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl) acetyl-keyhole limpet hemocyanin (NP-KLH) to elicit a T-cell independent (TI) or T-cell dependent (TD) antibody response. To clarify the ability of ascorbic acid on plasma cell production, we tracked the B cell differentiation fate on the NP-specific B1-8hi BCR transgenic background.

Results

Ascorbic acid-injected mice demonstrated significantly delayed disease incidence and decreased disease severity compared to PBS-injected mice. Ascorbic acid can reduce the titers of autoantibodies in both arthritis and lupus mice models. Ascorbic acid can significantly reduce the number of plasma cells and the production of antigen-specific antibodies in TI and TD antibody response. In addition, ascorbic acid can disrupt the antibody affinity maturation. Through B1-8hi adoptive transfer experiments, it has been demonstrated that ascorbic acid restrains B cell differentiation into plasma cells in a cell-intrinsic manner. After in-depth exploration, we found that ascorbic acid can block the cell cycle of B cells and promote cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, ascorbic acid inhibited the production of autoreactive plasma cells by inhibiting the Stat3 signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that ascorbic acid has the ability to suppress the generation of autoreactive plasma cells, diminish the production of autoantibodies, and consequently delay the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.
Prioritisation of emerging and epidemic-prone diseases and risk factors in India’s three western states using the One Health Risk and Disease (OHRAD) prioritisation tool
Authors: Yasobant Sandul , Lekha K. Shruti , Patil Shailee , Bhavsar Priya , Tadvi Ravina , Patel Krupali , Falkenberg Timo , Bruchhausen Walter , Saxena Deepak
Published: July 2024

Background

There have been numerous outbreaks of infectious diseases to date, and out of them, six events have been declared as Public Health Emergencies of International Concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). The outbreaks have been unprecedented, and the sudden anxiety associated with these makes the situation more complicated. Prioritisation of diseases has been a common process in public health, and it is important to identify infectious diseases that are important for human health. In addition, a One Health approach requires taking also animal origin and related risk factors for infectious diseases into account.

Methods

State-level co-creation workshops were conducted in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra, the three western states of India. One Health Risk and Disease (OHRAD) prioritisation tool was used to prioritise emerging and epidemic-prone diseases and their risk factors.

Results

The risk factors and diseases were scored using the OHRAD tool, and the ranks were obtained. Avian flu by A(H5N1), A(H7N9), and A(H9N2), swine flu by A(H1N1), A(H1N2) and A(H3N2), dengue, rabies, leptospirosis, bovine tuberculosis, salmonellosis, chikungunya, soil-transmitted helminths, and brucellosis were some of the 10 diseases prioritised in all the three western states of the country. Similarly, the presence of mosquito breeding sites near houses or workplaces, open defecation, poor hand hygiene, poor personal hygiene, reluctance to follow disease prevention measures and improper carcass disposal were prioritised as the risk factors for diseases in all three states.

Conclusion

The emerging and epidemic-prone diseases and risk factors that are prioritised reflect state-specific scenarios and the gravity of the situation concerning risk factors for disease outbreaks. This can help in allocating resources and increasing efforts in the prevention and control of these diseases.