bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação de hábitos obesogênicos em estudantes de medicina: análise do estado nutricional, físico, de ansiedade e depressão entre estudantes de uma faculdade privada do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Porto Paula Lima Guimarães , Neves Neto René Garrido , Guedes Débora Cunha , Lima Yasmin Moraes , Gomes Thiago Assef , Souza Rafael Henrique Rodrigues de , Taboada Giselle Fernandes
Published: March 2022

A obesidade é uma condição crônica caracterizada pelo acúmulo excessivo de gordura, repercutindo negativamente na saúde do indivíduo. A graduação pode impactar na vida do estudante, refletindo em mudança de hábitos e alterações psicossociais, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento de obesidade e outras comorbidades. Assim sendo, o presente trabalho avaliou o estado nutricional, físico e de ansiedade e depressão entre os alunos da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Estácio de Sá, RJ, por meio de um estudo clínico observacional de corte transversal pela aplicação de questionário composto por 27 itens. A mediana do IMC no 1o período foi 22 Kg/m2, sendo maior que o IMC nos períodos acima, de 23,1 Kg/m2. Não houve variação do IMC no ciclo básico. As medianas de IMC foram maiores nos homens, porém o somatório dos itens de ansiedade e depressão foram maiores tanto em mulheres quanto no ciclo clínico. Houve fraca correlação positiva entre a variação de peso nos homens e o somatório dos itens de ansiedade e depressão. Esse, porém, foi considerado insignificante para as mulheres. Não se observou hábitos obesogênicos relevantes nos estudantes. Portanto, é notável considerar a importância de uma alimentação saudável, prática de atividade física e atenção à saúde mental, bem como a realização de futuros estudos de desenho longitudinal com a proposta de melhor avaliar o peso e os hábitos dos estudantes no curso.
Estilo de vida e qualidade do sono de estudantes de medicina em uma universidade pública, durante a pandemia da COVID-19: um estudo transversal
Authors: Martins João Mateus Silva , Ferreira Esther Angelica Luiz , Valete Cristina Ortiz Sobrinho
Published: March 2022

Introdução: A graduação em medicina pode comprometer a qualidade do sono e a qualidade de vida. Objetivo: Avaliar o estilo de vida e a qualidade do sono entre estudantes de medicina. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo do tipo survey online transversal. Foram convidados os 200 estudantes de medicina de uma universidade pública de São Paulo, que cursavam regularmente, dos quais 61 (30,5%) responderam ao questionário. A coleta foi realizada durante a pandemia da COVID-19, no período de novembro de 2020 a março de 2021. O critério de exclusão foi o preenchimento incorreto do questionário. Foram aplicados o Índice de Qualidade do Sono de Pittsburg (PSQI) e a Fantastic Life Questionnaire (FLQ). Diferenças entre mais de duas medianas foram calculadas pela ANOVA de Kruskal-Wallis. A associação entre o estilo de vida e a qualidade do sono foi calculada pela correlação de Spearman. Foi considerado o valor de p<0,05. Resultados: A mediana do PSQI foi 6 (ruim) e do FLQ foi 55 (bom). A medida em que o estilo de vida piorou, a qualidade do sono piorou (p=0,005). Foi observada correlação entre a piora do estilo de vida e a piora da qualidade do sono (p<0.001). Conclusão: Foi observado que a maioria dos estudantes desta universidade apresentavam estilo de vida bom ou regular, qualidade do sono ruim e à medida que a qualidade do sono piorou a qualidade de vida também piorou. Este estudo foi conduzido durante a pandemia da COVID-19 e seus resultados podem ter sido influenciados por isto.
A new species of Orthobula Simon, 1897 (Araneae: Trachelidae) from South America
Authors: ESPEJO YOLANDA M.G. PIÑANEZ , MUNÉVAR ANA , KOCHALKA JOHN A.
Published: March 2022

Orthobula Simon, 1897 is a group of very small litter-dwelling spiders with a tropical and subtropical distribution. The genus comprises 18 species, without any records in the Neotropical realm yet. Here we describe O. sudamericana sp. nov., distributed in Argentina and Paraguay. The new species appears to be most closely related to O. chayuensis Yang, Song and Zhu, 2003. The male also resembles O. charitonovi (Mikhailov, 1986). Orthobula sudamericana sp. nov. females differ from these species by the straight and parallel insemination ducts, and males by the centrally located, U-shaped sperm duct. Further, we summarize details on its natural history and habitat characteristics.
Active vs. Passive Ambivalent Voters: Implications for Interactive Political Communication and Participation
Authors: Chang Chingching , Wu Chung-li
Published: March 2022

Voters express different attitudes toward competing political parties and the issues they support. In this study, a polytomous latent class analysis of their opinions regarding party-divided issues identifies several types of voters and highlights the distinction between active and passive ambivalent voters. Such a distinction is necessary to clarify the relationship between party ambivalence and political participation. Drawing on research into ambivalent attitudes, the current study postulates that active ambivalent citizens adopt amplification strategies, whereas passive ambivalent citizens adopt avoidance strategies. A comparison between them further indicates that active ambivalent citizens are motivated to fulfill their civic duties and be accountable when they seek political information, and they express more political interest than their passive counterparts. A three-wave panel survey confirms the influence of ambivalent voter types (wave 1) on political participation (wave 3), according to voters’ political orientation (i.e., civic duty motives to seek political information and interest in politics) and their interactive political communication (interactive engagement with digital political information and interpersonal political discussions) (wave 2).
Home food access and children's heart healthy dietary intake at home and child care
Authors: Rasmussen Ruth A. , Sisson Susan B. , Campbell Janis E. , DeGrace Beth , Baldwin Jonathan D.
Published: March 2022

Background: About 12 million children under 5 years of age attend early care and education centers (ECEs). Child intake at home can be impacted by food insecurity, which is higher among low income, rural, and racially diverse families. Aim: Determine whether greater access to fruits, vegetables, and snacks at home was associated with heart-healthy diet score at home and at ECEs in preschool-age children, and to determine whether there is a difference in heart-healthy diet score between home and ECEs. Methods: Cross-sectional study involving children (3-to-5-year-old, n  =  88) who attended 16 licensed ECEs across Oklahoma. Caregivers completed the Healthy Home Survey and 3-Dinner Dietary recall to report children's home food access and home dinner dietary intake, respectively. Researchers recorded children's ECE lunch consumption using the Dietary Observation for Child Care. Heart-healthy diet score was derived from composite scores for six variables: consumption of fish, fruits, vegetables, sodium, fiber, and sugary drinks. Results: Home access to total fruits and vegetables (16.2  ±  6.3) outnumbered snacks (5.5  ±  3.0). No difference in composite heart-healthy diet score between ECEs (1.50  ±  0.8) and home (1.27  ±  0.9, P  =  0.0851). Children within neither environment met recommendations for most variables (vegetables [18–24%], fruit [6–10%], fish [5–10%], fiber [1%], sodium [22–39%]). No relationship between home food access variables and the heart-healthy diet scores at home or ECEs. Conclusion: Dietary intake of children at home and ECEs does not meet heart-healthy diet score recommendations. Interventions should support preschool aged children from families that are located rurally, low-income, racial minorities, and whose primary caregivers work outside the home.
Coexistence of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and immune thrombocytopenic purpura in an Asian woman: a case report
Authors: Ge Hangping , Shi Zhan , Zheng Zhiyin , Zhu Qiuping , Hong Lili , Zhang Yu , Shen Jianping , Deng Shu
Published: March 2022

A 33-year-old Chinese woman with a history of immune thrombocytopenic purpura presented with heavy menstrual bleeding. She was found to have thrombocytopenia, plasma ADAMTS13 activity of 0%, and positivity for the plasma ADAMTS13 inhibitor. She was diagnosed with the coexistence of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and immune thrombocytopenic purpura. The patient was treated by plasmapheresis, a glucocorticoid, and rituximab. Her platelet level returned to normal, and she was discharged 28 days after admission. The number of plasmapheresis sessions and the timing of rituximab administration may be the key aspects of management of patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura who have underlying immune dysfunction caused by diseases such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura.
Histone methyltransferase Dot1L inhibits pancreatic cancer cell apoptosis by promoting NUPR1 expression
Authors: Shan Lin , Hao Chen , Jun Zheng , Qinghe Cai
Published: March 2022

Objective

To explore functions of the histone H3 lysine 79 (K79) methyltransferase Dot1L in the development of pancreatic cancer and evaluate the possibility of targeting Dot1L to inhibit pancreatic cancer progression.

Methods

Patient samples were used to detect differences in Dot1L expression between tumor and adjacent tissues and to determine correlations between Dot1L expression in patients with different stages of pancreatic cancer. Lentiviral-mediated knockdown of Dot1L expression and flow cytometry were used to detect apoptosis in pancreatic cancer lacking Dot1L expression; chromatin immunoprecipitation and quantitative PCR were used to detect downstream target genes of Dot1L.

Results

We show that Dot1L is highly expressed in pancreatic cancer, and that its expression is related to pancreatic cancer stage. Knocking down Dot1L significantly promoted apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells, while overexpressing Dot1L inhibited apoptosis. Mechanistically, Dot1L regulated apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells by promoting NUPR1 expression. The enriched H3K79 trimethylation in the transcription initiation region of NUPR1 promoted its expression. Overexpressing NUPR1 inhibited the pancreatic cancer cell apoptosis caused by Dot1L knockdown.

Conclusions

Dot1L inhibits pancreatic cancer cell apoptosis by targeting NUPR1; thus, Dot1L is a promising target for pancreatic cancer treatment.
The availability of support and peritoneal dialysis survival: A cohort study
Authors: Fox Danielle E , King-Shier Kathryn M , James Matthew T , Venturato Lorraine , Clarke Alix , Ravani Pietro , Oliver Matthew J , Quinn Robert R
Published: March 2022

Background:

Providing support is important to maintain a patient on peritoneal dialysis (PD), though its impact on outcomes has not been investigated thoroughly. We examined the association between having support and risk of a transfer to hemodialysis.

Methods:

In this retrospective observational cohort study, we used data captured in the Dialysis Measurement Analysis and Reporting system about patients who started PD in Alberta, Canada, between 1 January 2013 and 30 September 2018. Support was defined as the availability of a support person in the home who was able, willing and available to provide support for PD in the patient’s residence. The outcome of interest was a transfer to hemodialysis for at least 90 days. We estimated the cumulative incidence of a transfer over time accounting for competing risks and hazard ratios to summarise the association between support and a transfer. We split follow-up time as hazard ratios varied over time.

Results:

Six hundred and eighty-three incident PD patients, median age 58 years ( IQR: 47–68) and 35% female, were followed for a median of 15 months. The cumulative incidence of a transfer to hemodialysis at 24 months was 26%. Having support was associated with a reduced risk of a transfer between 3 and 12 months after the start of dialysis (HR3-12mo: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.25–0.78), but not earlier (hazard ratio (HR)<3mo: 0.96; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.55–1.69) or later (HR>12mo: 1.19; 95% CI: 0.65–2.17).

Conclusions:

A transfer to hemodialysis is common. Having a support person at home is associated with a short-term protective effect after the initiation of PD.
Accurate solution for size-dependent free vibration analysis of functionally graded micro-plates with Levy boundary conditions
Authors: Saber Amanollah Yousefian , Saidi Ali Reza , Bahaadini Reza
Published: March 2022

This paper has developed the Levy solution of a size-dependent model for free vibration analysis functionally graded thin rectangular plate according to the theories of first-order shear deformation as well as modified couple stress. The couple stress theory is used to calculate the effects of small-scale parameter, while the first-order shear deformation theory is employed to calculate the effects of shear deformation. By taking the displacement field according to the Mindlin plate theory, application of the Hamilton principle aims at obtaining five governing equations of motion and desired six boundary conditions. The governing equations of motion have been solved based on Levy boundary conditions by using four auxiliary functions. Numerical findings have been used to determine the impacts of various parameters including small-scale parameter changes, power-law index changes, as well as aspect ratios changes with different boundary conditions. As the results show, an increase in the size effects makes that plate tougher and consequently the natural frequency is increased. Also, it can be seen that in little thicknesses of plate, the effects of small-scale parameter are noticeable, but as the plate becomes thicker, the effects will be insignificant.
Different types of screen time are associated with low life satisfaction in adolescents across 37 European and North American countries
Authors: Khan Asaduzzaman , Moni Mohammad A. , Khan Shanchita R. , Burton Nicola W.
Published: March 2022

Aims

Prolonged screen time (ST) is a potential concern for poor wellbeing. This study aimed to examine the associations of different types of ST with life satisfaction among adolescents.

Methods

Data were from 380,446 adolescents (aged 11–15 years, 51% girls) across 37 European and North American countries who completed the 2010 and 2014 Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children surveys. Participants reported h/day during free time spent on television, electronic games, and computer/other devices. Life satisfaction was assessed using a 10-point scale (low life satisfaction ⩽5).

Results

Generalized additive modelling showed non-linear associations for each ST type, with low life satisfaction increasing monotonically for >1 h/day of electronic gaming or computer/other device and >2 h/day of watching television. Multilevel multivariable modelling showed that >4 h/day of watching television was associated with 26% higher odds for boys (OR 1.26; 95% CI:1.21–1.32) and 52% higher odds for girls (1.52; 1.46–1.59) of low life satisfaction than for ⩽1 h/day of television. Electronic gaming >4 h/day was associated with low life satisfaction with odds 42% higher in boys (1.42, 1.36–1.48) and 69% higher in girls (1.69, 1.61–1.76). A similar association was found for >4 h/day of computer/other device for boys (1.43, 1.37–1.49) and girls (1.71, 1.65–1.77).

Conclusions

Low levels of ST may be beneficial; however, prolonged periods are associated with low life satisfaction among adolescents, in particular among girls. Results support ⩽2 h/day restriction of ST and highlight research is needed to understand underlying mechanisms of ST and wellbeing, which may not reflect active versus passive content.
Parameter optimization of a grounded dynamic vibration absorber with lever and inerter
Authors: Shi Aimei , Shen Yongjun , Wang Junfeng
Published: March 2022

Mechanical vibration is mostly harmful, and it may not only generate noise but also affect the working life of the equipment. Lever, inerter, and grounded stiffness have good performance in the field of vibration control, but the dynamic vibration absorber simultaneously containing lever, inerter, and grounded stiffness is rarely studied. Based on the grounded dampertype dynamic vibration absorber, a dynamic vibration absorber with lever, inerter, and grounded stiffness is presented. And the optimal system parameters are analytically researched in detail. Firstly, the differential equation of motion is established according to Newton’s second law, and the analytical solution of the system is obtained. According to the amplitudefrequency curve of the system, it is obvious that there are two fixed points unrelated to the damping ratio. Meanwhile, the optimal frequency ratio of the dynamic vibration absorber is obtained based on the fixed-point theory. Under the premise of ensuring the system stability, the optimal grounded stiffness ratio is screened out, and the working range of inerter is further calculated. It is found that the inerter ratio has two working ranges when the coupling term values of magnification ratio and mass ratio are different. Furthermore, the approximate optimal damping ratio is derived by minimizing the maximum value of the amplitudefrequency curve. Using MATLAB, the numerical result is analyzed, and the correctness of analytical results is verified. Compared with other dynamic vibration absorbers under harmonic and random excitations, it is known that the model in this paper can evidently reduce the resonance amplitude and broaden the vibration band of the primary system. These results may provide a theoretical basis for the optimal design of similar dynamic vibration absorbers.
Effects of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health of children and adolescents: A systematic review of survey studies
Authors: Theberath Monique , Bauer David , Chen Weizhi , Salinas Manisha , Mohabbat Arya B , Yang Juan , Chon Tony Y , Bauer Brent A , Wahner-Roedler Dietlind L
Published: March 2022

Objective:

Mental health problems among children and adolescents are increasingly observed during the outbreak of COVID-19, leading to significant healthcare concerns. Survey studies provide unique opportunities for research during this pandemic, while there are no existing systematic reviews in this setting. The objective was to summarize existing survey studies addressing the effects of the current COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of children and adolescents.

Methods:

For this systematic review, we performed an electronic search in multiple databases from December 2019 to December 2020. The quality appraisal of the included studies was performed with the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Qualitative Checklist. Because of the high methodological heterogeneity between studies, a narrative synthesis of the qualitative data was used.

Results:

In total, 35 survey studies with 65,508 participants, ranging from 4 to 19 years of age, are included in this review. Anxiety (28%), depression (23%), loneliness (5%), stress (5%), fear (5%), tension (3%), anger (3%), fatigue (3%), confusion (3%), and worry (3%) were the most common mental health issues reported. Children and adolescents with psychiatric and/or developmental disorders, such as severe obesity, chronic lung disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, cystic fibrosis, and obsessive-compulsive disorders, were especially vulnerable to the mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Age, gender, psychological quality, and negative coping strategies were identified as risk factors for the development of mental health problems. Social and family support, along with a positive coping style, was associated with better outcomes.

Conclusion:

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health of children and adolescents is multifaceted and substantial. Survey studies regarding child and adolescent mental health amid COVID-19 indicated that anxiety, depression, loneliness, stress, and tension are the most observed symptoms. Positive coping strategies with family and social support may be important to achieving better outcomes. Due to limited available evidence, more well-designed studies in this area are urgently needed.
Iliac Crest Bone Graft Harvest for Alveolar Cleft Repair: A Systematic Review Comparing Minimally Invasive Trephine and Conventional Open Techniques
Authors: Todd Anna R. , Fitzpatrick Shannon , Cawthorn Thomas R. , Fraulin Frankie O.G. , Robertson Harrop A.
Published: March 2022

Background: In the course of developing a standardized pathway for alveolar cleft repair, we conducted a systematic review comparing minimally invasive trephine with conventional open technique for iliac crest bone graft harvest in a pediatric population. Methods: A systematic review was conducted of studies comparing open with minimally invasive trephine techniques in pediatric populations undergoing alveolar cleft repair. Exclusion criteria included reviews, case series, editorials, abstracts, and those with adult-only populations. Data were compiled with outcome variables selected a priori. Results: Of 422 manuscripts screened, five met criteria. These comprised 257 patients (116 open, 141 trephine). Average age was 11 years. Patients undergoing trephine harvest had reduced length of stay (1.0-5.0 days trephine vs 1.25-5.4 days open), time to unassisted ambulation (16-46 hours vs 20-67 hours open), and less postoperative narcotic use (0.31 mg/kg vs 1.64 mg/kg IV morphine). Volume of cancellous bone was reported as 2.53 mL for open versus 1.22 mL for trephine in one study, and trephine graft was supplemented with demineralized bone in 54% of cases in another study. The use of anesthetic adjuncts was inconsistent but had a significant effect on postoperative pain and ambulation. Conclusions: Compared to open techniques, the minimally invasive trephine bone graft harvest is associated with a shorter time to discharge, slightly lower infection rates, and reduced opioid use. The possible benefits of trephine harvest must however be balanced against the risk of insufficient graft harvest. Finally, the choice of perioperative analgesic adjuncts significantly impacts patient outcomes regardless of the technique employed.
Excision of Hook of Hamate Fractures in Elite Baseball Players: Surgical Technique and Return to Play
Authors: Engler Ian D. , Barrazueta Gustavo , Colacchio Nicholas D. , Ruchelsman David E. , Belsky Mark R. , Leibman Matthew D.
Published: March 2022

Background:

Hook of hamate fractures are relatively common in baseball players, but the proper diagnosis and surgical technique can be challenging. Outcomes after surgical excision, as well as optimal surgical technique, in elite baseball players have not been clearly established.

Hypothesis:

Excision of hook of hamate fractures with a technique tailored to elite professional and collegiate baseball players will lead to high rates of return to play within a short time.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

We reviewed the cases of 42 elite athletes who underwent surgical excision of 42 hook of hamate fractures at a single academic hand surgery practice from 2006 to 2020. The athletes competed at the professional (n = 20) or varsity collegiate (n = 22) baseball levels and were treated using the same surgical technique tailored toward the elite athlete. The clinical history, timing of surgery, complications, and time to return to play were recorded for each patient.

Results:

All 42 patients underwent an excision of their hook of hamate fracture at a mean of 7.2 weeks (range, 0.5-52 weeks) from the onset of symptoms. All but one patient were able to return to full preinjury level of baseball participation within 6 weeks from the date of surgery, with a mean return to sport of 5.4 weeks (range, 3-8 weeks). Two patients returned to the operating room—1 for scar tissue formation causing ulnar nerve compression and 1 for residual bone fragment causing pain and ulnar nerve compression.

Conclusion:

Surgical excision of hook of hamate fractures in elite baseball players showed a very high rate of return to play within 6 weeks. Meticulous adherence to the described surgical technique tailored to athletes optimizes clinical outcomes and avoids complications.
Investigating the Relationship Between Perception and Attitude With Responsibility for Elderly Care in Nurses of Emergency Wards of Ardabil Hospitals in 2020
Authors: Modarres Sadraei Indira , Dadkhah Behrouz , Mohammadi Mohammad Ali
Published: March 2022

Nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and their professional responsibility regarding elderly people are vital determinants in delivery of quality care for older people. Thus, this study aimed to identify the perception and attitude of nurses toward elderly care and their correlation with professional responsibility in nurses working in emergency departments. This descriptive-correlational study was conducted on 252 nurses working in the emergency departments of five general hospitals located in the province of Ardabil, Iran. Data was collected a demographic questionnaire and standard questionnaire of nursing care for the elderly of Persoon et al. The majority of nurses reported a positive knowledge and attitude towards elderly care. Only half of the nurses had a desirable professional responsibility towards elderly care. Based on the results of multivariate regression model, the variables of knowledge, attitude, age, work experience, and previous care of older client had a significant relationship with nurses ‘professional responsibility for elderly care ( p < 0.01). Knowledge, attitude, age, and previous history of elderly care are significant determinants for professional responsibility towards elderly care; therefore, periodical evaluation of elderly care and its related factors can help the hospital managers to construct the basics of healthcare delivery for older people in emergency departments.
Supporting Gender Self-Determination for People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Hughes Oscar E.
Published: March 2022

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), including those with significant support needs, continue to advocate for access to self-determination so that they can have choice and control in their lives. Under the purview of self-determination, people with I/DD should be able to determine how they express their gender. However, supporters sometimes enforce their own beliefs about gender, thus restricting people with I/DD to traditional gendered expectations of men and women. Through self-advocate stories and a review of research that has examined the experiences of gender-diverse people with I/DD, this article highlights the importance of supporting access to gender self-determination. I provide examples of how family members and professionals can support gender self-determination for people with I/DD, including those with significant support needs.
Assessing the Effects of Scapular Positioning on the Morphology of the Median Nerve During Upper Limb Tension Test 1 (ULTT1)
Authors: Vogel Erin , Ashley Natasha , Pandya Tanyi , Sebring Amber
Published: March 2022

Objective:

The upper limb tension test 1 (ULTT1) is commonly used by physical therapists for patients with complaints of radiating symptoms in their upper extremity following the path of the median nerve. Clinicians typically perform similar testing positions for patients, except for scapular position, which may vary between scapular blocking and scapular depression. This may alter the test results based on this positioning. The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a significant difference in median nerve morphology during the ULTT1 between resting and two scapular testing positions.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty healthy participants, 18 to 65 years of age, were tested using the ULTT1 in both blocked and depressed scapular positions. The height and width of the median nerve were measured by diagnostic sonography. Paired t tests were utilized to compare baseline, blocked, and depressed scapular positions with the ULTT1.

Results:

No statistically significant difference in height or width was found between resting, blocked, or depressed scapular positioning.

Conclusion:

There were inconclusive results regarding the morphology of the median nerve in this study.

Key Takeaways

Inconclusive results on nerve morphology comparing two scapular positions during the ULTT1. Research may be conducted on symptomatic patients to assist with more reliable test findings related to ULTT1.
Empirically derived dietary pattern and odds of non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases in overweight and obese adults: a case–control study
Authors: Talenezhad Nasir , Mirzavandi Farhang , Rahimpour Shahab , Amel Shahbaz Amir Pasha , Mohammadi Mohammad , Hosseinzadeh Mahdieh
Published: March 2022

Background

The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rising at an exponential rate throughout the world. Given the confirmed association between nutritional status and NAFLD, this study aimed to investigate the relationship of dietary patterns with NAFLD in overweight and obese adults.

Methods

In this age- and gender-matched case–control study, 115 newly diagnosed cases and 102 control individuals participated. A validated 178-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was administered to assess the participants' dietary data. Dietary patterns were extracted from 24 predefined food groups by factor analysis. Multivariate logistic regression was run to evaluate the relationship between dietary patterns and NAFLD.

Results

Factor analysis resulted in: “western”, “traditional”, and “snack and sweets” dietary patterns. The NAFLD odds were greater in participants at the highest quintile of the “western” dietary pattern than the lowest quintile (OR: 3.52; 95% CI: 1.64, 8.61). A significant increasing trend was observed in NAFLD odds across increasing quintiles of the “western” dietary pattern (P-trend = 0.01). After adjusting for the potential confounders, this relationship remained significant (OR: 3.30; 95% CI: 1.06–10.27). After full adjustments, NAFLD had no association with “traditional” or “snack and sweets” dietary patterns.

Conclusion

The “western” dietary pattern containing fast food, refined grains, liquid oil, pickles, high-fat dairy, sweet desserts, red meat, tea, and coffee was associated with increased odds of NAFLD. However, further prospective studies are required to establish these results.
Utility of handgrip strength (HGS) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) in the diagnosis of sarcopenia in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Luengpradidgun Lalida , Chamroonkul Naichaya , Sripongpun Pimsiri , Kaewdech Apichat , Tanutit Pramot , Ina Natee , Piratvisuth Teerha
Published: March 2022

Background

Sarcopenia is associated with disability, mortality, and poorer survival in cirrhotic patients. For the evaluation of muscle volume, computed tomography (CT) is the most accurate tool. Unfortunately, it would be hard to apply a muscle mass measuring CT to daily practice. This research aims to study the utility of handgrip strength (HGS) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to detect sarcopenia in cirrhotic patients compared with CT as the reference.

Methods

In cirrhotic patients who met inclusions criteria (age 20–70 years, ascites < grade 2 of International Ascites Club grading system, no active malignancy, and no cardiac implanted device), HGS were measured using a Jamar dynamometer. Subsequently, patients with low muscle strength (defined as JSH criteria, < 26 kg in male, < 18 kg in female) were then underwent CT and BIA (Tanita MC780 MA) on the same day to measure muscle volume, the definition of sarcopenia by CT was according to the Japan Society of Hepatology (JSH). We also collected data from patients with normal HGS whose CT results were available in the study period.

Results

From 146 cirrhotic patients who underwent HGS, 30 patients (20.5%) had diagnosed low HSG. Data from 50 patients whose available CT results included 30 low HGS and 20 patients with normal HSG. The HGS was strongly correlated with skeleton muscle index (SMI) by CT (r = 0.81, p < 0.001) and had an excellent diagnostic performance for detecting sarcopenia by using JSH criteria the sensitivity, specificity, NPV and PPV were 88.2%, 100%, 100%, and 98.7% respectively. In contrast, only 6 of 30 patients (20%) met sarcopenic criteria by BIA. Among sarcopenic patients, the result showed a fair correlation between SMI and BIA (r = 0.54; p < 0.002).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated an excellent correlation between HGS and SMI by CT in the mixed cirrhotic population from the sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia groups. The HGS using the JSH criteria showed an excellent performance in detecting sarcopenia compared to CT. Nonetheless, for the BIA by using the current cut-offs demonstrated unacceptable rate to detect sarcopenia.
Incidence, predictors and health outcomes of delirium in very old hospitalized patients: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang Meng , Zhang Xuemei , Gao Langli , Yue Jirong , Jiang Xiaolian
Published: March 2022

Background

Delirium is a common complication that leads to poor health outcomes in older patients undergoing treatment. Due to severe consequences, early recognition of high-risk patients and risk factors for delirium are crucial in the prompt initiation of prevention measures. However, research in medically hospitalized patients aged ≥80 years remains limited. This study aimed to determine the incidence, predictors and health outcomes of delirium in very old (aged ≥80 years) hospitalized patients in China.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted in individuals aged ≥80 years admitted to geriatric departments. Potential risk factors were assessed within 24 h after hospital admission. Screening for delirium was performed on admission and every 48 h thereafter for 14 days and assessed if acute mental status changes were observed. During hospitalization, health outcomes were recorded daily.

Results

Incident delirium occurred in 109 of 637 very old hospitalized patients (17.1%). The independent predictors of delirium in hospitalized patients aged 80 and over were cognitive function impairment [OR 17.42, 95% CI:(7.47–40.64)], depression [OR 9.30, 95% CI: (4.59–18.84)], CCI ≥ 5 [OR 4.21, 95% CI: (1.48–12.01)], sleep deprivation [OR 3.89, 95% CI: (1.71–8.82)], infection [OR 3.33, 95% CI: (1.70–6.54)], polypharmacy (≥5 medications) [OR 2.85, 95% CI: (1.51–5.39)], constipation [OR 2.58, 95% CI: (1.33–5.02)], and emergency admission [OR 2.13, 95% CI: (1.02–4.45)]. Patients with delirium had significantly longer hospital stays(P < 0.001) and higher percentages of physical restraint use(P < 0.001) and falls (P = 0.001) than those without delirium,.

Conclusion

The incidence of delirium was high in hospitalized patients aged ≥80 years admitted to the geriatric department and was associated with prolonged hospital stay and higher rates of physical restraint use and falls. In this population, the most important independent risk factors for incident delirium were cognitive function impairment and depression. Health care professionals should recognize and initiate interventions for delirium early in geriatric patients.
Quantitative proteomic analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in West Highland white terriers with canine idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Maher Rosemary E , Määttä Merita , Beynon Robert J , Laurila Henna P , McNamara Paul S , Rajamäki Minna M
Published: March 2022

Background

Canine idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (CIPF) is a chronic, progressive, interstitial fibrosing lung disease, manifesting as cough, exercise intolerance and ultimately, dyspnea and respiratory failure. It mainly affects West Highland white terriers (WHWTs), lacks curable treatment and has a poor prognosis. Aspiration of gastroesophageal refluxate may play a role in the development of CIPF. In the first part of this study, we completed label-free quantitative proteomic analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from CIPF and healthy WHWTs. In the second part, we evaluated potential protein markers of reflux aspiration from canine gastric juice and vomitus and whether these were present in BALF from the two groups.

Results

Across all BALF samples, 417 proteins were identified, and of these, 265 proteins were identified by two or more unique tryptic peptides. Using the 265 high confidence assignments, the quantitative proteome profiles were very similar in the two cohorts, but they could be readily resolved by principal component analysis on the basis of differential protein expression. Of the proteins that were differentially abundant in the two groups, several (including inflammatory and fibrotic markers) were elevated in CIPF, and a smaller, more diverse group of proteins were diminished in CIPF. No protein markers indicative of reflux aspiration were identified.

Conclusions

Label-free proteomics allowed discrimination between CIPF and healthy WHWTs, consistent with fibrotic process but did not provide clear evidence for gastrointestinal aspiration. The measurement of proteins may provide a proteomics signature of CIPF that could be used to evaluate treatment options.
Cholesterol sensor SCAP contributes to sorafenib resistance by regulating autophagy in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Danyang , Yao Yingcheng , Rao Yuhan , Huang Xinyu , Wei Li , You Zhimei , Zheng Guo , Hou Xiaoli , Su Yu , Varghese Zac , Moorhead John F. , Chen Yaxi , Ruan Xiong Z.
Published: March 2022

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most malignant tumors and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Sorafenib is currently acknowledged as a standard therapy for advanced HCC. However, acquired resistance substantially limits the clinical efficacy of sorafenib. Therefore, further investigations of the associated risk factors are highly warranted.

Methods

We analysed a group of 78 HCC patients who received sorafenib treatment after liver resection surgery. The expression of SCAP and its correlation with sorafenib resistance in HCC clinical samples were determined by immunohistochemical analyses. Overexpression and knockdown approaches in vitro were used to characterize the functional roles of SCAP in regulating sorafenib resistance. The effects of SCAP inhibition in HCC cell lines were analysed in proliferation, apoptosis, and colony formation assays. Autophagic regulation by SCAP was assessed by immunoblotting, immunofluorescence and immunoprecipitation assays. The combinatorial effect of a SCAP inhibitor and sorafenib was tested using nude mice.

Results

Hypercholesterolemia was associated with sorafenib resistance in HCC treatment. The degree of sorafenib resistance was correlated with the expression of the cholesterol sensor SCAP and consequent deposition of cholesterol. SCAP is overexpressed in HCC tissues and hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines with sorafenib resistance, while SCAP inhibition could improve sorafenib sensitivity in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells. Furthermore, we found that SCAP-mediated sorafenib resistance was related to decreased autophagy, which was connected to decreased AMPK activity. A clinically significant finding was that lycorine, a specific SCAP inhibitor, could reverse acquired resistance to sorafenib in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions

SCAP contributes to sorafenib resistance through AMPK-mediated autophagic regulation. The combination of sorafenib and SCAP targeted therapy provides a novel personalized treatment to enhance sensitivity in sorafenib-resistant HCC.
Can families help veterans get more from PTSD treatment? A randomized clinical trial examining Prolonged Exposure with and without family involvement
Authors: Meis Laura A. , Glynn Shirley M. , Spoont Michele R. , Kehle-Forbes Shannon M. , Nelson David , Isenhart Carl E. , Eftekhari Afsoon , Ackland Princess E. , Linden Erin B. , Orazem Robert J. , Cutting Andrea , Hagel Campbell Emily M. , Astin Millie C. , Porter Katherine E. , Smith Erin , Chuick Christopher D. , Lamp Kristen E. , Vuper Tessa C. , Oakley Taylor A. , Khan Lila B. , Keckeisen Sally K. , Polusny Melissa A.
Published: March 2022

Background

Posttraumatic stress disorder occurs in as many as one in five combat veterans and is associated with a host of negative, long-term consequences to the individual, their families, and society at large. Trauma-focused treatments, such as Prolonged Exposure, result in clinically significant symptom relief for many. Adherence to these treatments (i.e., session attendance and homework compliance) is vital to ensuring recovery but can be challenging for patients. Engaging families in veterans’ treatment could prove to be an effective strategy for promoting treatment adherence while also addressing long-standing calls for better family inclusion in treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder. This paper describes the methods of a pragmatic randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate if family inclusion in Prolonged Exposure can improve treatment adherence.

Methods

One hundred fifty-six veterans, with clinically significant symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, will be randomized to receive either standard Prolonged Exposure or Prolonged Exposure enhanced through family inclusion (Family-Supported Prolonged Exposure) across three different VA facilities. Our primary outcomes are session attendance and homework compliance. Secondary outcomes include posttraumatic stress disorder symptom severity, depression, quality of life, and relationship functioning. The study includes a concurrent process evaluation to identify potential implementation facilitators and barriers to family involvement in Prolonged Exposure within VA.

Discussion

While the importance of family involvement in posttraumatic stress disorder treatment is non-controversial, there is no evidence base supporting best practices on how to integrate families into PE or any other individually focused trauma-focused treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder. This study is an important step in addressing this gap, contributing to the literature for both retention and family involvement in trauma-focused treatments.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT03256227. Registered on August 21, 2017.
Increased risk of mortality in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary hypertension: a systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xiong Anji , Liu Qingting , Zhong Jiaxun , Cao Yuzi , Xiang Qilang , Hu Ziyi , Zhou Shifeng , Song Zhuoyao , Chen Huini , Zhang Yan , Cui Hongxu , Shuai Shiquan
Published: March 2022

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a frequent complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc) and is currently one of the primary causes of death in patients with this disease. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the association between PH and mortality in patients with SSc to verify trends in mortality in patients with SSc-associated PH.

Methods

We searched the PubMed and Embase databases for published studies on SSc-associated PH from inception to May 2021. All cohort studies in which mortality and/or survival for SSc-associated PH were reported were included in the analysis. The outcome parameters were pooled and analyzed using a random-effects model via generic inverse-variance weighting in conventional and cumulative meta-analysis.

Results

The literature search identified 1161 citations, and the full texts of 54 studies were examined. Sixteen articles, with a total of 7857 patients with SSc and 1140 patients with SSc-associated PH, were included in the meta-analysis. Patients with SSc-associated PH had a higher pooled risk of mortality than patients with SSc without PH (risk ratio = 3.12; 95% confidence interval: [2.44, 3.98]).

Conclusions

This meta-analysis revealed a higher mortality in patients with SSc-associated PH. PH was a significant predictor of death in patients with SSc. Thus, early diagnosis and treatment of PH are important in patients with SSc.
Cold Capitalism: The Political Ecology of Frozen Concentrated Orange Juice
Authors: Hamilton Shane
Published: March 2022

Frozen concentrated orange juice (FCOJ) was invented in 1945 by government researchers. To Florida orange growers beset by surplus production in some years and hard winter freezes in others, FCOJ was a "miracle" technology. Easily stored and transported, concentrate made it possible for orange juice processors to provide consumers with a uniform-quality product year-round. By the mid-1950s constantly rising consumer demand for FCOJ had essentially eliminated Florida orange growers’ constant surplus problem. Furthermore, many oranges that suffered from occasional winter frosts could be transformed into concentrate rather than destroyed. Thus, FCOJ appeared to rationalize the Florida orange industry in the 1950s, eliminating seasonal and annual swings in production and stabilizing prices and profits. However, when severe frosts attacked Florida groves in 1957-58 and again in 1962-63, FCOJ processors responded by doubling prices. Unlike other industrial agriculturists in American history, Florida orange growers and processors did not use technology to control nature in order to increase profits. Instead, they used the environmental limits imposed by Florida’s subtropical climate, along with their oligopolistic market position, to squeeze higher profits out of consumers. They respected the role of nature in limiting their production, not because they were enlightened ecologists, but because their control over orange juice production allowed them to make just as much money from a damaged crop of oranges as from a bumper crop. This case study thus calls into question the meaning of "rationalized" agriculture, showing that the logic of capitalist agriculture is not always straightforward.
Temporary Stays and Persistent Gains: The Causal Effects of Foster Care
Authors: Gross Max , Baron E. Jason
Published: March 2022

Six percent of children in the United States enter foster care by age 18. We estimate the effects of foster care on children's outcomes by exploiting the quasi-random assignment of child welfare investigators in Michigan. We find that foster care improved children's safety and educational outcomes. Gains emerged after children exited the foster system when most were reunified with their birth parents, suggesting that improvements made by their parents were an important mechanism. These results indicate that safely reducing the use of foster care, a goal of recent federal legislation, requires more effective in-home, prevention-focused efforts. (JEL H75, I21, J13, K42)
Mental Health Costs of Lockdowns: Evidence from Age-Specific Curfews in Turkey
Authors: Altindag Onur , Erten Bilge , Keskin Pinar
Published: March 2022

Using a strict, age-specific lockdown order for adults aged 65 and older in Turkey, we examine the mental health consequences of an extended period of tight mobility restrictions on senior adults. Adopting a regression discontinuity design, we find that the curfew-induced decline in mobility substantially worsened mental health outcomes, including somatic and nonsomatic symptoms of mental distress (approximately 0.2 standard deviation). Exploring potential channels, we document an increase in social and physical isolation, with no evidence of robust changes in labor market outcomes or intrahousehold conflict for this subpopulation. (JEL D13, I21, I18, J14, O15)