bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Polymer Gel Utilization in Carbon Dioxide Flow Control at the Core and Field Scale
Authors: Brattekås Bergit , Seright Randall
Published: September 2023

Polymer gel has been used for water conformance control for several decades and may have significant potential in remediating unfavorable carbon dioxide (CO2) flow in the subsurface. High-mobility CO2 may channel quickly through sedimentary reservoirs, where unfavorable displacements are worsened in the presence of heterogeneities. Flow diversion technology targeting and withstanding CO2 is therefore essential to improving sweep efficiency and increasing storage potential. Polymer gel treatments have been demonstrated to remediate CO2 channeling in several enhanced oil recovery (EOR) field applications and have been proposed as a means to remediate wellbore and seal leakage during carbon sequestration. The goal of this review is to assess CO2 conformance control by polymer gel in published laboratory work related to both storage and EOR operations. Although field implementation of polymer gel has been successful in reducing CO2 flow, supporting experimental work on the laboratory scale is scattered, with both results and parameters varied. This paper summarizes the available literature and proposes a framework for future experimental work to aid more systematic assessment.
Age-dependent topic modelling of comorbidities in UK Biobank identifies disease subtypes with differential genetic risk
Authors: Jiang Xilin
Published: September 2023

Age-dependent topic modelling (ATM) is a method for inferring comorbidity profiles for individuals at Biobank Scale. Details of the Method is available in the paper Age-dependent topic modelling of comorbidities in UK Biobank identifies disease subtypes with differential genetic risk.

ATM assigns to each individual topic weights for several disease topics; each disease topic reflects a set of diseases that tend to co-occur as a function of age, quantified by age-dependent topic loadings for each disease. The model assumes that for each disease diagnosis, a topic is sampled based on the individual’s topic weights (which sum to 1 across topics, for a given individual), and a disease is sampled based on the individual’s age and the age-dependent topic loadings (which sum to 1 across diseases, for a given topic at a given age). The model generalises the latent dirichlet allocation (LDA) model by allowing topic loadings for each topic to vary with age.

The ATM model is implemented as an R package, which is available for download at https://github.com/Xilin-Jiang/ATM/tree/main. We provide example simulated data so that users could easily test before formatting their data.
Optimization of microplate-based phenol-sulfuric acid method and application to the multi-sample measurements of cellulose nanofibers
Authors: Ogura Isamu , Sugiyama Miyuki , Tai Rie , Mano Hiroyuki , Matsuzawa Tomohiko
Published: September 2023

The phenol-sulfuric acid (PSA) method is a widely used colorimetric method for determining the total saccharides. Microplate-based PSA methods have been developed to handle a large number of samples and reduce the use of hazardous chemicals. However, the optimal procedures and measurement conditions for this method have not yet been fully established. To address this gap, we investigated the optimal procedure for microplate-based PSA. In addition to glucose (Glc), two types of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) were also evaluated as they are a new type of nanomaterial, and a technique to quantify the concentration of CNFs is required in their safety assessment. The results showed that the thermal reaction with sulfuric acid before the addition of phenol resulted in a higher coloration than was shown after the addition of phenol. Furthermore, the longer the resting time after shaking with phenol, the greater the coloration and the smaller the variation, with a resting time of 60 min or longer being optimal. This research provides valuable insights into improving the reliability and efficiency of the PSA method, which can facilitate the analysis of saccharides and other substances in a range of applications.
Sakahanda: a Farming Management System Designed for Small-scale Crop Productions in the Municipality of San Ildefonso
Authors: Batoon Jayson , Raymundo Erika , Cruz Red Johnpaul , Custodio Eunice , Perez Timothy Ryeyn , Cabrito Khyla Nicole
Published: September 2023

Crop production is critical to the country's agricultural sector's growth, however, urban development and natural adversities such as typhoons, droughts, and pest infestations all pose a risk to crop production and the livelihood of small-scale farmers. With that, projects harnessing the potential of digital agriculture technologies are highly relevant. Due to this, the researchers developed SAKAHANDA, a farming management system consisting of an Android mobile app for the farmers and an administrative web app for the Municipal Agriculture Office of the Municipality of San Ildefonso. For the development, the developers adopted the agile software development methodology using the Kanban framework. Through the mobile application, farmers can manage their crops through farm management features partnered with smart weather forecasting, pest infestation reporting, and crops library with pest map. On the other hand, the admin web application has features designed to improve the efficiency of crop production in the municipality with features like farm monitoring, farm geotagging, farmer management, pest infestation management, and crops management. The results show a future for digital agriculture and other similar endeavors in the country. Furthermore, according to the evaluation based on Software Quality ISO 25010 standards, the results indicate that evaluators find the developed system and its features acceptable. It can help the farmers improve their crop production yields and help the MAO manage the municipal farming industry more effectively.
Prevalence and factors associated with respiratory symptoms in an urban population: findings from BOLD study in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Nafees Asaad Ahmed , Khan Adeel Ahmed , Rabbani Unaib , Zahidie Aysha , Ul Rooman , Irfan Muhammad , Amaral Andre FS
Published: September 2023

Background
Our study investigated the prevalence and risk factors of respiratory symptoms (RS) in an adult population aged ≥ 40 years in Karachi, Pakistan.
Methods
A population based cross-sectional study was conducted. Multi-stage cluster random sampling technique was used to enroll 1052 participants. Questionnaire based on the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study protocol was used to assess chronic cough, chronic phlegm, wheezing and shortness of breath (SOB). Logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the risk factors associated with RS.
Results
The overall weighted prevalence of RS in our study was; chronic cough: 12%, chronic phlegm: 11.8%, wheezing in last 12 months: 11.5%, and shortness of breath (SOB): 30.4%. Increasing age and ever smoker were significant risk factors for all RS. Females had higher risk of chronic cough. Lower level of education and higher BMI were associated with wheezing and SOB. Exposure to passive smoking was found to be significant risk factor for SOB.
Conclusion
We found a higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms among adult population in Karachi, specifically about one-third of the population had shortness of breath (SOB). Certain preventable risk factors were identified. These modifiable risk factors can be addressed by targeted public health and educational interventions in order to reduce the burden of respiratory symptoms.
Cognitive profile of reserpine following its repeated administration in rats: a progressive model of memory impairment
Authors: Ikram Huma , Kazi Mohsin , Haleem Darakhshan J. , Uddin Mohammad N.
Published: September 2023

Contrary to other animal models for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related cognitive deficits involving acute memory impairment, the present study was designed to provide an animal model exhibiting a progressive decrease in memory upon repeated administration of reserpine (0.1 mg/kg). In the present study, reserpine was injected daily (once a day for three weeks). Short- and long-term memories were assessed using a Morris water maze on a weekly basis. A novel object recognition test was performed after completion of the treatment (day 21). Animals were decapitated on day 21, and brain samples were stored at -70°C. Impairment of short- and long-term activities (as monitored in the Morris water maze) was not observed until after the first week. Long-term memory was found to be impaired earlier than short-term memory. The novel object recognition test also revealed reserpine-induced impairment of working memory. Neurochemical analysis of the whole brain samples by HPLC-EC showed that repeated administration of reserpine significantly decreased dopamine (p < 0.01), HVA (homovaluronic acid) (p < 0.05) and 5-HIAA (5-hydroxyindol acetic acid) (p < 0.01) levels. This further confirmed that these neurochemical deficits are the underlying reason for memory impairment. The present study provides evidence that repeated administration of reserpine can be used as a ‘progressive’ animal model of memory impairment. The results could be beneficial for understanding the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s-related memory impairment.
Luminous condition of urban canyons; an evolutionary computing-based approach to simultaneously improve outdoor illuminance and indoor visual comfort
Authors: Abdollahzadeh Nastaran , Biloria Nimish
Published: September 2023

Due to the rapid population growth, urban densification is inevitable. As cities become denser, the environmental quality of urban canyons reduces, and thus the associated energy use of buildings increases. Currently, cities are responsible for 70% of the world’s energy consumption. One of the efficient solutions to address this issue is allowing more solar access into interiors and thus making the most of daylight and solar heat gain. Accordingly, this study aims to develop general daylighting guidelines by optimizing urban and building design factors. This ultimately allows more daylight penetration into urban canyons (vertical daylight illuminance (VDI)) and, subsequently, improves indoor visual comfort (useful horizontal illuminance level (HIL)). This can also reduce the associated lighting and heating (during winter) energy use of buildings. Moreover, the correlation between indoor and outdoor illuminance levels is investigated to bridge the gap between daylight requirements in urban planning and building scale design. In this regard, a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm-based assessment of design variables is conducted employing computational simulation. This determines the extent to which each urban morphology can affect daylight access in both indoor and outdoor environments. Accordingly, the optimal range for different design factors is suggested.
Combined toxic effects of MWCNTs and ZnO nanoparticle on the liver of common carp
Authors: Gao Xiaochan , Huang Yong , Ren Hongtao , Li Yimin , Chen Jiayong , Xu Ruiyi
Published: September 2023

As important emerging carbon nanostructured materials with large surface areas, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can affect the fate of some pollutants. The impact of multi-walled CNTs (MWCNTs) on the toxic effects of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnONPs) remains eclusive. In this study, the histological changes and apoptosis of the liver of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) were investigated under four-weeks exposure of single ZnONPs or in combination with MWCNTs. The results demonstrated that ZnONPs individually induced pathological changes and apoptosis in the liver. After co-exposure to 50 mg L− 1 ZnONPs and 0.25 mg L− 1 MWCNTs, the pathological changes alleviation were observed at the microscopic level and ultrastructural level. Apoptotic rate of hepatocytes decreased by 52%. Moreover, the mRNA expression of apoptosis-related genes including caspase3, BAX, and XBP1 were significantly changed, indicating the complex interactions between them. In contrast, co-exposure to 50 mg L− 1 ZnONPs and 2.5 mg L− 1 MWCNTs resulted in more severe damage and apoptosis (apoptotic rate increased by 33%). In conclusion, low concentration of MWCNTs attenuated the toxic effect of ZnONPs on common carp, but high concentration of MWCNTs enhanced it. This study will contribute to the development of future risk assessment and management strategies of carbon nanomaterials.
Application of Lung Ultrasound in Monitoring Fluid Overload During Transurethral Resection of the Prostate: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Zhang Mengjun , Huang Xiaofan , Zhang Xiaohan , Li Ziying , Chen Qiuchong , Zhang Yu
Published: September 2023

Background
Fluid absorption is common in patients undergoing transurethral prostate resections. We aimed to explore the feasibility of using lung ultrasound to monitor fluid overload during and after surgery by detecting extravascular lung water.
Methods
We conducted a single-center prospective observational study of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) under general anesthesia between December 2020 and August 2021. Lung ultrasound was performed before the operation (T1), 1 h after the surgery started (10 min before the end of the operation if the operation time was < 1 h) (T2), and before leaving the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU, T3) to assess the changes in extravascular lung water. Lung ultrasound scores ≥ 20 were defined as significantly increased extravascular lung water (EVLW). The primary outcome was the incidence of increased EVLW at T3. The secondary outcomes included delayed recovery, postoperative shivering, hypoxemia, time to extubation, time in the PACU, and length of postoperative hospital stay.
Results
All patients had normal extravascular lung water before surgery, and 6.9% and 35.5% of patients had increased EVLW at T2 and T3, respectively. Increased extravascular lung water prolonged extubation and recovery times. However, postoperative shivering, hypoxemia, and the length of postoperative hospital stay were not significantly affected.
Conclusions
Lung ultrasound is a reliable noninvasive bedside tool for monitoring fluid absorption during TURP under general anesthesia.
Physician resilience and perceived quality of care among medical doctors with training in psychosomatic medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic: a quantitative and qualitative analysis
Authors: Fazekas Christian , Zieser Maximilian , Hanfstingl Barbara , Saretzki Janika , Kunschitz Evelyn , Zieser-Stelzhammer Luise , Linder Dennis , Matzer Franziska
Published: September 2023

Background
At an individual level, physician resilience protects against burnout and against its known negative effects on individual physicians, patient safety, and quality of care. However, it remains uncertain whether physician resilience also correlates with maintaining a high level of healthcare quality during crises such as a pandemic. This study aimed to investigate whether higher resilience among physicians, who had received training in resilience-related competences in the past, would be associated with higher quality of care delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
This study enrolled physicians working in family medicine, psychiatry, internal medicine, and other medical specialties, who had obtained at least one of three consecutive diplomas in psychosomatic medicine in the past. Participants completed a quantitative and qualitative anonymous online survey. Resilience was measured using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and healthcare quality was assessed through single-item quality indicators, including perceived quality of care, professional autonomy, adequate time for patient care, and job satisfaction.
Results
The study included 229 physicians (70 males/159 females) with additional training in psychosomatic medicine, working in family medicine (42.5%), psychiatry (28.1%), internal medicine (7.0%), or other medical specialties (22.4%). Participants represented four intensity levels of training background (level 1 to level 4: 9.2%, 32.3%, 46.3%, and 12.2% of participants). Training background in psychosomatic medicine was positively associated with resilience (B = 0.08, SE = 0.04, p < 0.05). Resilience and training background independently predicted perceived quality of care, even after controlling for variables such as own health concerns, involvement in the treatment of COVID-19 patients, financial strain, percentage of working hours spent on patient care, age, and gender (resilience: B = 0.33, SE = 0.12, p < 0.01; training background: B = 0.17, SE = 0.07, p < 0.05). Both resilience and training background predicted job satisfaction (resilience: B = 0.42, SE = 0.12, p < 0.001; training background: B = 0.18, SE = 0.07, p < 0.05), while resilience alone predicted professional autonomy (B = 0.27, SE = 0.12, p < 0.05). In response to an open question about their resources, resilient physicians more frequently reported applying conscious resilient skills/emotion regulation (p < 0.05) and personal coping strategies (p < 0.01) compared to less resilient medical doctors.
Conclusion
Physician resilience appears to play a significant role in the perceived quality of patient care, professional autonomy, and job satisfaction during healthcare crises.
Impact of recent climatic disaster on socioeconomic and health status of people residing in flood-stricken areas of Pakistan
Authors: Khan Qaisar Ali , Farkouh Christopher , Hadi Faiza Amatul , Iram Sumaira , Haider Iqbal , Badshah Aliena , Khan Arooba , Hidayat Aabdar , Jan Ayiz , Ain Hoor Ul , Mumtaz Hassan
Published: September 2023

Introduction:
The occurrence of severe weather events and climate-related calamities, such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves, is escalating on a global scale. This article examines the effects of the recent flood in Pakistan on the socioeconomic and health conditions of the population residing in the country.
Methodology:
The chosen approach for conducting this study is the methodology. A survey was done on a sample of 811 individuals from three districts in Pakistan following a flood event. The survey encompassed a wide range of questions aimed at investigating the biopsychosocial dimensions of the impacted community. The data was obtained using a validated questionnaire and afterwards analyzed using SPSS software version 25.
Findings:
The analysis of our survey revealed noteworthy rises in problematic biopsychosocial indicators within the surveyed regions of Pakistan. Specifically, 40% of the population experienced homelessness, while the proportion of individuals with a low income decreased by 9% and those with a moderate income decreased by 22%. Furthermore, it was found that 48.7% of the participants experienced a loss of income as a direct consequence of the flood events. Moreover, a significant increase was observed in the proportion of individuals reporting some form of disease or disability since the flooding, with 83.4% of the subjects affected compared to the previous rate of 16.4%. Additionally, a substantial majority of 92.8% expressed the belief that the floods had adversely impacted the health and sanitation conditions within their locality. Significantly, a notable proportion of participants (22.6%) reported encountering challenges in obtaining food subsequent to flooding, as opposed to the pre-flood period. Additionally, a substantial majority of respondents (59.9%) indicated a lack of knowledge on appropriate evacuation procedures specific to their locality prior to the occurrence of floods.
Conclusion
Pakistan has frequent flooding and other natural disasters. Current data suggests the country's ability to manage and mitigate environmental stressors is poor. Our study found that the floods hindered access to food, healthcare, and property for low-income people. Without proper finances and healthcare, people are more susceptible to chronic lung disease, diabetes, and heart disease. To help a community like Pakistan recover from an environmental disaster, infrastructural, nutritional, and medical aid is crucial.
Glycosylation-Related Genes predict prognosis in Hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Fan , Zhao Yuhong , Cheng Yongjia , Sheng Yuguo , Xu Yingjiang , Zhao Kun , Chen Gang
Published: September 2023

(1) Background：Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a significant challenge in the field of oncology despite improvements in diagnosis and treatment with surgical resection, liver transplantation, and various local therapies. Advanced HCC is particularly difficult to manage due to the lack of suitable molecular targets and drug resistance, which negatively impact prognosis. Glycosylation, an essential post-translational modification of proteins, has been implicated in HCC tumor biology, including tumor invasion, metabolism, and the immune response. This study aims to investigate the relationship between glycosylation-related genes, the immune microenvironment, and the prognosis of HCC, with the potential to identify novel prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
(2) Methods and results：The TCGA database were utilized to acquire clinical data and glycosylation-related gene expression data of HCC patients, which were then used to stratify patients into high- and low-immune subgroups based on their immune score, level, and status using ESTIMATE, CIBERSORT, and ssGSEA analyses. We found that a higher immune score, level, and status were associated with a better prognosis for HCC patients. To identify potential prognostic biomarkers, we applied univariate Cox regression analysis, the LASSO algorithm, and multivariate Cox regression analysis to generate a list of eight candidate genes, which were then used to establish a prognostic risk model. Additionally, a prognostic nomogram was developed that successfully predicted the survival and prognosis of HCC patients. The identification of glycosylation-related genes and their association with the immune microenvironment in HCC offers promising clinical implications for the development of novel prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
(3) Conclusions: The observed correlation between glycosylation-related genes and the immune microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma holds promising implications for clinical prediction. These findings suggest that glycosylation-related genes may serve as important biomarkers for predicting the immune response in hepatocellular carcinoma patients.
Post-injection intramuscular abscess with bacteremia caused by Salmonella enterica in an HIV-infected patient
Authors: Escoda Thomas , Delord Marion , Stavris Chloé , Genot Séverine , Allemand Julie , Philibert Patrick , Chiche Laurent , Rebaudet Stanislas
Published: September 2023

Background
Salmonella enterica infections are mainly responsible for enteric fever (Typhi and Paratyphi serovars) and foodborne enterocolitis or gastroenteritis (Typhimurium and Enteritidis serovars). The main mode of transmission is through food but rarer modes of transmission, in particular nosocomial, are possible.
Case presentation:
We described an original case of Salmonella enterica (serovar Enteritidis) bacteraemia due to an intramuscular and subcutaneous abscess related to an injection, in a care setting, in an HIV patient. Outcomes were favourable with third generation cephalosporin antibiotic therapy and ultrasound-guided puncture and drainage of the abscess.
Conclusion
This case illustrates the risks associated with the reuse of syringes in resource-limited countries and the need for prevention campaigns and provision of the necessary means to reduce injections-associated bacterial and viral infections.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Malaria Prevention and Control in selected communities in Margibi and Montserrado Counties, Liberia
Authors: McClain James , Pewee Forkpah , Saah-Bonkie Anthony
Published: September 2023

Introduction:
Malaria is endemic, with 228 million cases. Malaria, the nation's greatest killer, is deeply ingrained. Malaria causes 42% of outpatient visits and 30% of inpatient fatalities in Liberia.
Objective
To measure resident malaria knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.
Methodology:
In Montserrado County and Margibi County, respectively, 173 households participated in a community-based cross-sectional survey in Chicken Soup Factory, Borbor, and Cotton Tree. A face-to-face interview with a survey questionnaire collected data on participants' demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and malaria prevention and control methods.
Results
99.0% of Cotton Tree, 97.9% of Chicken Soup Factory, and 92.9% of Borbor Island locals knew malaria prevention and control well. 6.30% of Cotton Tree, 8.30% of Chicken Soup Factory, and 3.60% of Borbor Island people use mosquito nets. 45.1% of Cotton Tree, 2.1% of Chicken Soup Factory, and 3.6% of Borbor Island homeowners never clean stagnant water surrounding their homes. 95.8% of Chicken Soup Factory and 89.3% of Borbor Island participants know and understand malaria control. Malaria control was excellent at Chicken Soup Factory and Borbor Island.
Conclusion
Although malaria is life-threatening, we require community awareness to offer enough information on control and prevention due to misconceptions regarding control and prevention.
Bayesian approach for evaluation of lactation curve in cross bred cattle based on bimonthly test day milk yield
Authors: S Aruna T , Deb S M , Malhotra Ravinder , Yousuf Saleem , S Anand T
Published: September 2023

In field progeny testing program milk recording at monthly or bimonthly intervals and prediction of first lactation 305-day milk yield (FL305DMY) from these test day yields have been adapted as an alternative to daily milk recording. Wood’s incomplete gamma function is the one of the commonly used nonlinear lactation curve model. In recent years Bayesian approach of fitting nonlinear biological models is gaining attention among researchers. In this study Wood’s incomplete gamma function was fitted using Bayesian approach using monthly (MTDY) and bimonthly test day (BTDY) yields. The lactation curve parameters thus obtained were used for prediction of FL305DMY. Efficiency of prediction based on monthly and bimonthly test day milk yield were compared using error of prediction. It was found to be 5.78% and 7.59% as root mean square error (RMSE) values based on MTDY and BTDY respectively .The Breeding values of 97 Karan Fries sires were estimated using BLUP-AM based on actual and predicted FL305DMY so obtained. The RMSE was calculated as the difference between estimated breeding values based on actual and predicted yield. It was found that RMSE value calculated based on MTDY showed only a marginal superiority of 0.79% over BTDY and showed high degree of correlation with actual yield. So, recording at bimonthly intervals could be an economical alternative without compromising the efficiency.
Clinical significance of blood and urine testing for cytomegalovirus in pediatric patients hospitalized with community acquired pneumonia and cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Lu Yanhong , Chen Feng , Ruan Linan , Gu Lingtong , Wang Ting , Dong Heting , Wang Yuqing , Hao Chuangli , Huang Li , Yan Yongdong , Sun Huiming , Chen Zhengrong
Published: September 2023

Background
This study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of detecting cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the blood and urine of pediatric patients hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and CMV infection.
Methods
This retrospective case-control study enrolled consecutive pediatric patients admitted with CAP with a positive test result for CMV DNA in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). The study participants were further divided into two groups based on CMV serological test results: active CMV infection group and CMV replication group. Clinical characteristics were compared between these two groups. The Kruskal–Wallis test or Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare non-normally distributed continuous variables. The Chi-squared test was used to assess differences in categorical variables. The correlations between CMV copy number and ALT were determined using the Spearman correlation analysis.
Results
Among 124 patients aged 1–11 months included in this study, 80 (64.5%) patients were categorized as having an active CMV infection and 44 (35.5%) as positive for CMV replication. Co-infection with other pathogens was detected more frequently with CMV replication (n = 29, 65.9%) compared with active CMV infection (n = 35, 43.7%; P = 0.018). Patients with active CMV infection were younger and exhibited higher levels of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase compared with patients with CMV replication (all P < 0.05). The median CMV DNA copy numbers in both blood and urine were higher in patients with active CMV infection than in patients with CMV replication (all P < 0.05). Both the blood and urine CMV DNA copy numbers showed a positive association with ALT (r = 0.237, P = 0.017 for blood and r = 0.309, P = 0.033 for urine).
Conclusions
Measurement of CMV DNA in blood and urine may be an effective method for monitoring liver function impairment in patients presenting with CAP and concurrent CMV infection.
Enhancing Population Health Experience for Nursing Students through an Indirect Supervision Model
Authors: Hay Jonathan , Knight Kate H. , Arnold Mark , Donaghy-Binks Pamela
Published: September 2023

Background
The 2018 Standards for Student Supervision and Assessment can make it difficult for Higher Education Institutions to fill national deficits in student placement capacity, especially in social care and the voluntary sector. The Indirect Placement Supervision and Assessment Model and its holistic focus helps redress this deficit.
Methods
A Microsoft Forms survey was distributed to a self-selecting sample of students, placement providers, and university staff, all of whom had been involved in indirect supervision as either an assessor, student, or supervisor.
Results
Three key themes emerged from the data collected; responses suggested that the model generated greater placement variety, increased placement capacity, and brought about reciprocal gains in the learner-supervisor matrix.
Conclusion
The data gathered indicates that the indirect model is a highly efficient means of providing holistic health and social care-based placements for pre-registrants. It likewise indicates that the model firmly aligns with the future-oriented focus of the new NHS Long Term Workforce Plan. We subsequently recommend that uptake of the model continues at pace.
Ethnic differences in prevalence and behaviors of smoking and its association with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among the elderly in rural southwest China：a cross-sectional study
Authors: LI Guo-hui , LIU Lan , ZHAO Yi , WU Xia , GOLDEN Allison RABKIN , CAI Le
Published: September 2023

Background
This study examines how prevalence and behaviors of smoking differ by ethnicity and the association of smoking with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among the elderly Han and ethnic minority (Bai, Ha Ni, and Dai) population in rural southwest China.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted including 5,642 adults aged ≥ 60 years in rural regions of Yunnan Province, China. Information about participants’ demographic characteristics as well as smoking habits was obtained using a standard questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements, including height and weight, and post-bronchodilator spirometry tests were recorded for each participant.
Results
In all four studied ethnicities, males had significantly higher prevalence of both current smokers (48.8% vs. 0.8%) and COPD (12.7% vs. 4.5%) than females (P༜0.01). Filtered cigarettes were the most popular form of tobacco used, comprising 76.6% of tobacco consumed among all four studied ethnicities. Bai ethnic minority participants had the highest prevalence of current smoking and COPD as well as the highest number of cigarettes smoked per day compared to the other three studied ethnicities (P < 0.01). Ha Ni ethnic minority participants had the lowest rate of smoking cessation (8.7%) and the highest rate of smoking in public places (66.8%) (P < 0.01). The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that current smokers had a greater probability of suffering from COPD across all four studied ethnicities (P < 0.05), with the strongest association of current smoking with COPD observed in the Bai ethnic population (OR = 3.32, P < 0.01).
Conclusions
Prevalence and behaviors of smoking among the elderly in rural southwest China differ significantly by ethnicity. Future tobacco cessation interventions should be tailored to address ethnicity, and reducing prevalence of smoking may reduce prevalence of COPD.
Mid-term Outcome of Catheter Ablation of Idiopathic Non-Outflow Tract Ventricular Arrhythmias
Authors: Cheng Dian , Yu Jinbo , Chen Kanghui , Li Xiaorong , Zhang Fengxiang , Ju Weizhu , Chen Hongwu , Yang Gang , Li Mingfang , Gu Kai , Wang Xuecheng , Xie Xin , Wu Yizhang , Zhou Jian , Zhou Xiaoqian , Kojodjojo Pipin , Yang Bing , Chen Minglong
Published: September 2023

Background: Catheter ablation is recommended in patients with frequent and symptomatic ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) in an otherwise normal heart. Right or left outflow tract (OT) are the most common origins, and catheter ablation is highly effective with low complication rates. However, outcome of catheter ablation of VAs other than the OT (non-OTVAs) is limited. The aim of this single-center study was to assess the safety and mid-term outcome of catheter ablation for non-OTVAs.
Method and Results: From 2013 to 2018, 251 patients who underwent catheter ablation for idiopathic non-OTVAs were enrolled and grouped according to the origins (HPS, n=108; PM/MB, n=47; TA, n=70; MA, n=26), 244 (97.2%) had acute elimination of VAs. The time of VAs recurrence of the single procedure was 1.69 (0.12,9.72) months, with 66% occurring within the first 3 months. The recurrence rate was significantly higher in the PM/MB group than in the TA (p=0.025) and MA groups (p=0.023). The single procedure success rate in all patients was 70.1%, in which 66.7%, 59.6%, 80%, and 76.9% were achieved in the HPS, PM/MB, TA, and MA groups, respectively (p=0.284). After multiple procedures, the total success rate was 76.5% at the follow-up of 4.38±2.42 years. The rate was significantly lower in the PM/MB group than in the TA group (p=0.035). In subgroup analysis, no significant difference was observed in the recurrence rate of single procedure in patients with different VA origins within the PM/MB (log-rank test, p=0.546).
Conclusion: Despite a certain percentage of recurrences observed in the mid-term follow-up, catheter ablation remained feasible and effective for idiopathic non-OTVAs.
Omphalocele-Exstrophy-Imperforate Anus-Spinal Defect Syndrome in a monozygotic twin pregnancy: a case report and literature review
Authors: Hu Qing , Liao Hua , Zeng Zhaomin , Liu Hongyan , Yu Haiyan
Published: September 2023

Background
The Omphalocele, Exstrophy, Imperforate Anus, and Spinal Defects Complex (OEIS complex) is a rare condition. The prevalence of this condition ranged from 1 in 200,000 to 400,000 pregnancies and 1 in 82,000 to 200,000 live births. There have been cases of female monozygotic twins with this condition, but the perinatal outcome of the co-twin has not received sufficient attention.
Case presentation
We present a spontaneously conceived monochorionic monoamniotic twin pregnancy with OEIS in one twin. At 12 + 4 weeks’ gestation, ultrasound suggested MCMA twin pregnancy and twin B with abdominal cystic mass 2.8*2.5*2.5cm. At 15 + 3 weeks’ gestation, the abdominal cystic mass in Twin B was detected enlargement as 5.76*3.13*5.4cm. Subsequent prenatal examinations confirmed the presence of OEIS in Twin B. At 20 + 4 weeks, the abdominal cystic mass measured 7.0*4.7*6.2 cm, and the mass suddenly decreased to 3.3 *2.5*2.0 cm at 22 weeks ,which suggested membrane rupture of the cystic mass. At 33 + 6 weeks, the OEIS fetus underwent selective feticide by intrafetal laser therapy after multidisciplinary consultation, and then the caesarean section was performed. The OEIS fetus was weighed 1769g, with no external genitalia and anus, and presented with a bulging of 3 x 4 cm at the umbilical location. The healthy female baby weighing 2020g was delivered, with Apgar scores of 8 and 9 at the first and fifth minute, respectively. The baby was followed up and now at one year and 6 months old is in good health.
Conclusion(s)
OEIS syndrome appears to be more commonly observed in monozygotic twins. The difference in prevalence of OEIS syndrome between males and females is not significant. In discordant twin pregnancies where only one fetus has OEIS, the co-twin has a higher chance of survival with no malformations, and feticide should be considered in such cases. In concordant twin pregnancies where both fetuses are affected by OEIS, the prognosis is poor.
Polygenic Liability for Antipsychotic Dosage and Polypharmacy - A Real-World Registry and Biobank Study
Authors: Koch Elise , Kämpe Anders , Alver Maris , Sigurðarson Sindri , Einarsson Guðmundur , Partanen Juulia , Smith Robert , Jaholkowski Piotr , Taipale Heidi , Lähteenvuo Markku , Steen Nils Eiel , Smeland Olav , Djurovic Srdjan , Molden Espen , Sigurdsson Engilbert , Stefánsson Hreinn , Stefansson Kari , Palotie Aarno , Milani Lili , O'Connell Kevin , Andreassen Ole
Published: September 2023

Genomic prediction of antipsychotic dose and polypharmacy has been difficult, mainly due to limited access to large cohorts with genetic and drug prescription data. In this proof of principle study, we investigated if genetic liability for schizophrenia is associated with high dose requirements of antipsychotics and antipsychotic polypharmacy, using real-world registry and biobank data from five independent Nordic cohorts of a total of N = 20,805 individuals with psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychosis). Within linear regression models, a polygenic risk score (PRS) for schizophrenia was studied in relation to standardized antipsychotic dose as well as antipsychotic polypharmacy, defined based on longitudinal prescription registry data as well as health records and self-reported data. Meta-analyses across the five cohorts showed that PRS for schizophrenia was significantly positively associated with prescribed (standardized) antipsychotic dose (OR = 1.05, CI = 1.03–1.09, p = 0.0008) and antipsychotic polypharmacy defined as taking ≥ 3 antipsychotics (OR = 1.30, CI = 1.00-1.74, p = 0.048). The direction of effect was similar in all five independent cohorts. These findings indicate that genotypes may aid clinically relevant decisions on individual patients´ antipsychotic treatment. Further, the findings illustrate how real-world data have the potential to generate results needed for future precision medicine approaches in psychiatry.
A prevention program for binge drinking among students based on mindfulness and implementation intention (ALCOMEDIIT): a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mange Jessica , Mauny Nicolas , Montcharmont Charlotte , Legrand Eve , Lemercier-Dugarin Maud , Mortier Arnaud , Duvivier Martin , Leveneur Johnny , Lacherez Cédric , Cabé Nicolas , Berre Anne-Pascale Le
Published: September 2023

Background. The emergence of new problematic alcohol consumption practices among young people requires new dynamics in prevention strategies. In this context, the ADUC project (Alcohol and Drugs at the University of Caen) aims to develop a better understanding of alcohol consumption, and in particular the practice of binge drinking (BD) in students, in order to develop relevant and adapted prevention tools. The ALCOMEDIIT study (IRESP funding; Agreement 20II31-00 - ADUC part 3) is a randomized controlled trial that focuses on the specific determinant of impulsivity. The main objective of this experiment is to validate a program for the prevention of BD practices based on motivational interviewing (MI) associated with implementation intention (II) and mindfulness meditation (MBM) in a student environment.
Methods. This study will include 170 healthy subjects who will be students at the university, alcohol users, with a BD score > 1 in the month preceding the inclusion but not presenting any specific disorder. The trial will be proposed by e-mail and students who meet the inclusion criteria will join either a control group which will benefit from a MI, or an experimental group which will additionally benefit from an initiation to MBM with II (initial visit T0). In order to measure the effectiveness of the prevention program in terms of BD decrease, a follow-up at 1 month (T1) as well as a follow-up at 6 months (T6; exploratory) will be proposed to all participants. The total duration of this research protocol is 18 months.
Discussion. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the interest of associating mindfulness meditation practices and implementation of self-regulation strategies to optimize their use, with a motivational interview in an innovative prevention program aiming at reducing alcohol use and BD practice in the student population.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05565989, September 30, 2022.
Protocol version 2.0 (September 2022)
N° ID-RCB : 2022-A00983-40
Risk for cardiovascular disease development in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Bedeković Dražen , Bošnjak Ivica , Bilić-Ćurčić Ines , Kirner Damir , Šarić Sandra , Novak Srđan
Published: September 2023

Background
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis have significant cardiovascular mortality and morbidity.
Objective
To investigate the effects of chronic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis on cardiovascular morbidity association with cardiovascular risk factors risk factors. Mortality report is secondary just to show trends without sufficient statistical power as it is accidental endpoint.
Methods
A total of 201 individuals without previous cardiovascular disease, 124 with rheumatoid arthritis (investigation group) and 77 with osteoarthritis (control group), were included in the study and followed up for an average of 8 years to assess the development of fatal or non-fatal cardiovascular diseases. The incidence and prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors were also investigated.
Results
The total incidence of one or more fatal or nonfatal cardiovascular events was 43.9% in the investigation group and 37.5% in the control group. Of these patients, 31.7% and 30.9% survived cardiovascular events in the investigation and control groups, respectively. The most common cardiovascular disease among participants who completed the study and those who died during the study was chronic heart failure. The results of the subgroup analysis showed that strict inflammation control plays a central role in lowering cardiovascular risk..
Conclusion
A multidisciplinary approach to these patients is of paramount importance, especially with the cooperation of immunologists and cardiologists for early detection, prevention, and management of cardiovascular risks and diseases.
Exploring the perspectives of older adults who are pre-frail and frail to identify interventions to reduce sedentary behaviour and improve mobility: A thematic content analysis
Authors: Rodrigues Isabel B. , Ching Priscilla , Kobsar Dylan , Zheng Rong , Rabinovich Alexander , Adachi Jonathan D. , Leckie Carolyn , Bray Steven , Ioannidis George , Fang Qiyin , Papaioannou Alexandra
Published: September 2023

Older adults who are frail are one of the most sedentary and the least physically active age group. Prolonged sedentary time is associated with increased risk of negative health outcomes. To help design effective and sustainable content and optimize the uptake of sedentary behaviour interventions, an in-depth understanding of older adults’ perceptions of sedentary behaviour is needed; however, most qualitative studies have been conducted in healthy older adults. The aim of this study was to explore perspectives of sedentary behaviour within the context of older adults who are pre-frail and frail after the winter and spring. We included participants if they: 1) spoke English or attended with a translator or caregiver, 2) were ≥ 60 years, and 3) were frail on the Morley Frail Scale. We utilized a qualitative description methodology including a semi-structured in-depth interview and thematic content analysis. Concepts from the COM-B (Capability Opportunity Motivation–Behaviour) model were used to guide the semi-structured interviews and analysis. To ensure credibility of the data, we used an audit trail and analyst triangulation. We recruited 21 older adults (72 ± 7.3 years, 13 females, 13 frail) from Southwestern Ontario, Canada. Two individuals were lost to follow-up due to medical mistrust and worse health. We transcribed 39 audio recordings. We identified three salient themes: 1) older adults rationalize their sedentary behaviours through cognitive dissonance, 2) urban cities in Southwestern Ontario may not be “age-friendly”, and 3) exercise is something people “have to do”, but hobbies are for enjoyment despite medical conditions. Perspectives of sedentary behaviour were different in the winter versus spring, with participants perceiving themselves to be less active in winter. Incorporating dissonance-based interventions may be an important component to disseminate educational material on the benefits and harms of certain types of sedentary behaviour. Future research should consider interdisciplinary collaborations with environmental gerontology to develop age-friendly communities that promote meaningful mobility to help older adults successfully age.
A retrospective study of the Japanese Version of Stanford Integrated Psychosocial Assessment Tool (SIPAT-J) and the Onset of Adjustment Disorder One-Year after Ventricular Assisting Device Implantation as Bridge to Transplantation
Authors: Tsutsui Junko , Kobayashi Sayaka , Yamanaka Motoharu , Endo Natsumi , Akaho Rie , Ichihara Yuki , Nishimura Katsuji , Oshibuchi Hidehiro
Published: September 2023

Background Patients with ventricular assist devices (VADs) as bridge to transplantation are exposed to psychosocial stress due to uncertainty of the availability of heart transplantation. Therefore, it is important to identify individuals who are psychosocially vulnerable and at risk of developing psychosocial distress such as adjustment disorder.
Main body The aim of this retrospective study using medical records was to investigate associations between scores on the Japanese version of Stanford Integrated Psychosocial Assessment for Transplantation (SIPAT-J) administered before ventricular assist device implantation and the onset of adjustment disorder one year after the implantation. Medical records of 24 patients who had undergone VADs implantation from 1 August 2014 to 31 December 2019 were reviewed starting from the day of psychiatric evaluation until one year after VADs implantation. Twelve patients were diagnosed as having delirium and/or insomnia and five developed adjustment disorder after amelioration of delirium and/or insomnia. Patients’ readiness level domain scores on the SIPAT-J indicated a trend to associate with development of adjustment disorder, though this finding was not statistically significant. The stressors of AD were identified as changes created by the ventricular assist device.
Conclusions: The findings of this preliminary study highlighted the importance of assessing patients’ readiness levels, such as knowledge and adherence to treatment, as well as their prediction on life changes created by ventricular assist devices, with the aim of preventing development of adjustment disorder after ventricular assist device implantation.