bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Following a Surgical Paradigm Shift Through the Adoption of Nerve Transfers Among Board-Eligible and Practicing Plastic Surgeons
Authors: Varagur Kaamya , Jacobson Lauren , Teixeira Robert , Patterson J. Megan M. , Skolnick Gary B. , Mackinnon Susan E.
Published: May 2023

Background:

Nerve transfers represent a new paradigm in the treatment of nerve injuries. Their current level of adoption among surgeons is unknown. This study evaluates the incidence of nerve transfers on case logs of board-eligible plastic surgeons over the past 14 years and surveys practicing nerve surgeons regarding their use of this technique.

Methods:

We queried the American Board of Plastic Surgery case log database for all nerve reconstruction Current Procedural Terminology codes from 2008 to 2021 and assessed trends and relationships between geographic region, examination year, and nerve transfer use. We surveyed nerve surgery professional societies to assess trends in practice, compared with a 2017 survey.

Results:

A total of 1959 nerve reconstruction cases were logged by 738 candidates from 2008 to 2021. Twelve percent of cases included nerve transfers. The proportion of nerve transfer codes ( Z = −11.57; P < .0001) and the proportion of candidates performing nerve transfers ( Z = −9.21, P < .0001) increased over the study period. Nerve transfers were associated with geographic region (χ2 = 25.826, P = .0002), with most cases performed in the Midwest (26.4%). A higher proportion of practicing nerve surgeons reported performing nerve transfers in this survey than in our 2017 survey (χ2 = 16.7, P < .001).

Conclusions:

There has been an increase in nerve transfers logged in the past 14 years by board-eligible plastic surgeons, as well as increased use among currently practicing nerve surgeons. Although nerve transfer use is increasing among both plastic and orthopedic surgeons, a greater proportion of nerve reconstructions include nerve transfers in the plastic surgery cohort.
Celebrating Global Road Safety Week
Authors: Sleet David A.
Published: May 2023

May 15-21, 2023 is Global Road Safety Week hosted by the World Health Organization to raise awareness about road safety and opportunities for prevention. Lifestyle practitioners and health care providers can contribute to these efforts in many ways from counseling patients to change risky behaviors to supporting efforts to improve pre-hospital trauma care.
The role of visual and auditory information in social event segmentation
Authors: Ristic Jelena , Capozzi Francesca
Published: May 2023

Humans organise their social worlds into social and nonsocial events. Social event segmentation refers to the ability to parse the environmental content into social and nonsocial events or units. Here, we investigated the role that perceptual information from visual and auditory modalities, in isolation and in conjunction, played in social event segmentation. Participants viewed a video clip depicting an interaction between two actors and marked the boundaries of social and nonsocial events. Depending on the condition, the clip at first contained only auditory or only visual information. Then, the clip was shown containing both auditory and visual information. Higher overall group consensus and response consistency in parsing the clip was found for social segmentation and when both auditory and visual information was available. Presenting the clip in the visual domain only benefitted group agreement in social segmentation while the inclusion of auditory information (under the audiovisual condition) also improved response consistency in nonsocial segmentation. Thus, social segmentation utilises information from the visual modality, with the auditory cues contributing under ambiguous or uncertain conditions and during segmentation of nonsocial content.
Hospitalized Patients’ Sleep Quality Compared Between Multioccupancy Rooms and Single-Patient Rooms
Authors: Schafthuizen Laura , Ista Erwin , van der Heijden Marianne , van Heel Liesbeth , Maben Jill , van Rosmalen Joost , van Eijck Casper H. J. , van Dijk Monique
Published: May 2023

Objectives:

To evaluate patients’ sleep quality in a former hospital with two-and four-bedded rooms compared to a new hospital that incorporated evidence-based design features, including exclusively single-patient rooms (SPRs).

Background:

Hospitalized patients often report poor sleep quality due to both patient-related factors and hospital environmental factors. It is unclear if staying in an SPR in a hospital designed as a healing environment is associated with better sleep quality.

Methods:

In a before-after study, sleep quality, duration, and efficiency over 72 hr were measured with a sleep diary, GENEActiv accelerometer, and the Richards–Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RCSQ) with scores ranging from 0 to 100, with higher scores reflecting better sleep. Participants were either staying alone in the former hospital with two-and four-bedded rooms (Group 1), sharing a room with one to three fellow patients (Group 2), or staying alone in a newly designed hospital with 100% SPRs (Group 3).

Results:

We included 17 patients in Group 1, 32 patients in Group 2, and 56 patients in Group 3. Univariable linear mixed model analysis, controlling for night number, revealed that the RCSQ total score was lowest in Group 2 compared to the other two groups. In the multivariable analysis, the RCSQ score was also the lowest in Group 2, with a significant effect from covariate “use of night medication.”

Conclusion:

Self-reported sleep quality of hospitalized patients in a hospital with 100% SPRs designed as a healing environment was slightly better than that of patients staying in multioccupancy rooms with fellow patients.
Sinus reconstruction therapy for superior sagittal sinus dural arteriovenous fistula caused by parasagittal meningioma invasion: a case report
Authors: Shima Shogo , Sato Shinsuke , Kushi Kazuki , Okada Yosikazu , Niimi Yasunari
Published: May 2023

A dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) involving the superior sagittal sinus (SSS) is relatively rare, and its clinical course is usually aggressive. Its concomitance with a tumor has rarely been reported. Here, we present a case of SSS dAVF due to meningioma invasion, which was treated with sinus reconstruction and endovascular embolization. A 75-year-old man who had undergone tumor resection for parasagittal meningioma 4 years prior presented with intra-ventricular hemorrhage. Computed tomography angiography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed recurrent tumor invasion into the SSS causing occlusion. Cerebral angiography revealed multiple shunts along the occluded segment of the SSS, diffuse deep venous congestion, and cortical reflux. Borden type 3 SSS dAVF was diagnosed. We first performed direct tumor resection, followed by stenting for the occluded SSS and partial embolization of the shunts. After a 6-month interval, transvenous occlusion of the SSS was performed along the stent, resulting in complete obliteration of the dAVF. Sinus reconstruction therapy was effective in the immediate improvement of venous hypertension, obtaining the access route to the fistulas, and eradicating the shunts.
A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol on hypertension prevalence and associated factors among bank workers in Africa
Authors: Moloro Abdulkerim Hassen , Seid Abubeker Alebachew , Jaleta Fikiru Yigezu
Published: May 2023

Objective:

This systematic review and meta-analysis will investigate the pooled prevalence of hypertension and associated factors among bank workers in Africa.

Methods:

Studies published with full texts in English will be searched in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, African Journals Online, and Google Scholar databases. Checklists from the Joanna Briggs Institute will be used to assess the studies’ methodology quality. Data extraction, critical appraisal, and screening of all retrieved articles will be conducted by two independent reviewers. Statistical analysis will be performed using STATA-14 software packages. A random effect will be employed to demonstrate pooled estimates of hypertension among bank workers. For determinants of hypertension, an effect size with a 95% confidence interval will be analyzed.

Results:

Data extraction and statistical analyses will begin after identifying the most pertinent studies and evaluating their methodological quality. Data synthesis and the presentation of the results are scheduled for completion by the end of 2023. After the review is completed, the results will be presented at relevant conferences and published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Conclusion:

Hypertension is a major public health concern in Africa. More than 2 out of 10 people aged older than 18 years suffer from hypertension. A number of factors contribute to hypertension in Africa. These factors include female gender, age, overweight or obesity, khat chewing, alcohol consumption, and family history of hypertension and diabetes mellitus. To address the alarming rise in hypertension in Africa, behavioral risk factors should be given primary attention.

Protocol registration:

This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol is registered in PROSPERO with the registration ID and link as follows: CRD42022364354;CRD-register@york.ac.ukhttps://www.york.ac.uk/inst/crd
Multilevel modeling of unintended current pregnancy: In the case of Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey, 2016
Authors: Wobse Belete A , Gashaw Tezera A
Published: May 2023

Background

Unintended pregnancy has been a major public health and reproductive health issue imposing a great adverse consequence on the mother and child. However, estimates of unintended pregnancy through the appropriate model are lacking. This study is aimed at modeling and assessing the extent of variation and factors associated with unintended pregnancy among women in Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted based on 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data related to the reproductive health of 1122 currently pregnant women and a multilevel modeling approach was used.

Results

The proportion of unintended current pregnancies was 20.1%. According to random intercept with a fixed slope model, women who had 1 to 3 living children and those who had 4 and above were more likely to be unintended (OR = 3.54, 95% CI: 1.985–6.332) and (OR = 5.47, 95% CI: 2.67–11.227), respectively, compared to women with no living children. Also, married women were less likely to be unintended (OR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.065–0.304) compared to unmarried women. In addition, women having work were more likely to be unintended (OR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.079–2.255). Furthermore, women who intend to use contraceptive methods were less likely to be unintended (OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.362–0.796) compared to women who do not intend.

Conclusion

The number of living children, current marital status, the intention of contraceptive use, and respondents’ working status were found to have a significant effect. Giving attention to regional variations and intention of contraceptive use is important to reduce unintended current pregnancies in Ethiopia.
Bibliometric and visualized analysis of research relating to minimally invasive spine surgery reported over the period 2000–2022
Authors: Weng Rui , Lin Dong-Xin , Song Yu-Ke , Guo Hai-Wei , Zhang Wen-Sheng , He Xiao-Ming , Li Wen-Chao , Lin Hong-Heng , He Min-Cong , Wei Qiu-Shi
Published: May 2023

Background

Since entering the 21st century, there has been an increasing interest in minimally invasive surgery for spinal diseases, which has led to the continued development of minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS), with major breakthroughs in technology and technical skills. However, in recent years, there is little relevant research using bibliometrics to analyze the field of MISS research. The purpose of this study is to sort out the publication situation and topic trends of articles in the field of MISS research from the perspective of bibliometrics.

Methods

The articles and reviews related to MISS from 2000 to 2022 were retrieved and downloaded from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC). Visualization and knowledge mapping were performed using three bibliometric tools, including online bibliometric platform, CiteSpace and VOSviewer software. Curve fitting and correlation analysis were performed using Microsoft Excel software. The global research publication output, contributions of countries, institutions, authors, and journals, average citations per item (ACI), Hirsch index ( H-index), research hot keywords, etc., in this field were analyzed.

Results

A total of 2384 papers were retrieved, including 2135 original papers and 249 review papers. In the past 22 years, the number of annual publications of MISS research has shown a steady growth trend. China contributed the most papers, and the United States ranked second, but the United States had the highest total citations, and H-index value. The most prolific institutions were Soochow University, Capital Medical University and Wooridul Spine Hospital. In this field, Professors Lee SH, Ahn Y and Yang HL have made significant achievements. However, there is relatively little international collaboration between institutions or researchers. World Neurosurgery is the most published journal on MISS research. According to the keyword co-occurrence analysis, recent keywords mainly focus on researches on minimally invasive modalities, techniques and prognosis, while on the keyword analysis of the ongoing bursts, percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy, lumbar diskectomy, spinal stenosis, recompression, diskectomy, endoscopic spine surgery, laminectomy, transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion, etc., will likely continue to be a research hotspot in the near future.

Conclusion

Looking at the temporal trend in the number of publications per year, the number of publications for the MISS study will increase in the near future. China has the highest number of publications, but the US has the highest quality publications. International cooperation needs to be further strengthened. Our findings can provide useful information for the academic community and identify possible research fronts and hotspots in the coming years.
Psychometric Properties of the Positive Mental Health Scale in a Spanish Population
Authors: Boufellous Selma , Sánchez-Teruel David , Robles-Bello María Auxiliadora , Lorabi Souhib , Mendoza-Bernal Irhomis
Published: May 2023

Background. Positive mental health can be defined as the presence of emotional, psychological, and social well-being. The original version of the Positive Mental Health (PMHs) scale appears to have good psychometric properties. This study aims to validate the Spanish version for the general population. Methods. A sample of 845 participants (425%–50.30% women) aged between 14 and 70 years ( M = 32.1; SD = 4.2) was used. Descriptive analyses were performed on the items, as well as confirmatory factor analysis, convergent validity with protective factors and with risk factors. Results. Factor analysis confirmed a unidimensional structure with excellent model fit indices, high positive convergent validity especially with resilience to suicide attempts and optimism, and high negative convergent validity mainly with anxiety. Conclusions. The PMH is a scale with the necessary reliability and validity to be used in different psychosocial contexts, especially in the health care of the Spanish population.
Benign Metastasizing Leiomyoma Causing Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation and Heart Failure
Authors: Jaber Mohammad , Winner Patricia Jean , Krishnan Rajagopal , Shu Richard , Khandelwal Keerti M. , Shah Shivang
Published: May 2023

We present the case of a 51-year-old woman with severe tricuspid valve regurgitation due to aseptic tricuspid valve vegetation. She presented with bilateral lower extremity edema and a tricuspid valve vegetation was found on echocardiography. Initially, infectious and autoimmune causes of valve vegetation were considered; however, on biopsy, the mass was ultimately found to be a benign metastasizing leiomyoma (BML). Additional history revealed clinical features consistent with uterine leiomyomas, which metastasized to all leaflets the tricuspid valve, causing symptoms of heart failure. Benign metastasizing leiomyoma is rare itself, but when found, typically presents as asymptomatic pulmonary nodules. Mechanism of spread is unknown. Diagnosis is typically made long after a hysterectomy or fibroidectomy, but in our case, the BML was found prior to an actual fibroid diagnosis. By comparison, metastasis to the heart is extremely rare and has a higher potential for morbidity. Our patient required open heart surgery and tricuspid valve replacement for management of her symptoms, but her risk of further or recurrent metastasis going forward is unknown. Management strategy to prevent metastases in such cases of aggressive disease is not an established protocol and needs to be further studied.
Exploring the Healthcare Services’ Contribution to Reducing Postpartum Depression
Authors: Almutairi Hessa Abdulranhman , Alyousef Seham Mansour , Alhamidi Sami Abdulrahman , Almoammar Danah Nasser
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The postpartum period is accompanied by health risks that impact many women. Postpartum depression (PPD) is a mental health problem that has been neglected in maternal healthcare services.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore nurses’ perceptions towards health services’ contribution to lowering the incidence of PPD.

Methods

An interpretive phenomenological approach was adopted in a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia. A convenience sample of 10 postpartum nurses was interviewed face-to-face. The analysis followed Colaizzi's data analysis method.

Results

Seven main themes emerged on how to improve maternal health services to contribute to reducing the incidence of PPD among women: (1) maternal mental health, (2) follow-up of mental health status, (3) screening mental health status, (4) enhancing health education, (5) reducing stigma toward mental health, (6) updating resources, and (7) empowering nurses.

Conclusion

The integration of mental health services into maternal services that are provided to women needs to be considered in the context of Saudi Arabia. This integration will result in high-quality holistic maternal care.
Integrating High-Value Care Concepts into Preclinical Medical Education: A Practical Approach
Authors: Carey Magalie E. , Gilmore Brittany L. , Lawler Michael J. , Hoddwells Max , Hale Andrew J. , Repp Allen B.
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Although some US medical schools have incorporated high-value care into their preclinical curriculum, there is no standardized approach and major curricular overhaul can be prohibitively onerous. The objectives of this study were to develop a feasible and effective high-value care curriculum, integrate it into an existing pre-clinical course, and assess student and faculty perceptions of the educational value of the curriculum.

Methods

Between 2019 and 2021, University of Vermont preclinical medical students participating in the Students & Trainees Advocating for Resource Stewardship (STARS) program collaborated with the faculty director of the preclinical pathophysiology course to identify Choosing Wisely® recommendations relevant to course topics. For each recommendation, STARS students created a case-based, multiple-choice question, answer key and rationale to accompany standard course materials. At each year's course completion, participating students and faculty were invited to complete a survey to assess their perceptions of the curriculum.

Results

Seventeen case-based questions were integrated into existing pathophysiology course sessions each year. Over the 3-year period, 420 students and 35 teaching faculty participated in the course, and 171 (40.7%) students and 24 (68.6%) faculty completed the post-course survey. Among student respondents, 80% agreed the curriculum increased their awareness of high-value care, 79% agreed they would be more likely to apply high-value care concepts during their medical career, and 92% agreed it was valuable to discuss Choosing Wisely® recommendations during the second year of medical school.

Conclusion

A student-led initiative to incorporate high-value care content within an existing pre-clinical course was well-received by medical students, who reported increased awareness of and intention to apply high-value care principles. This model may offer a feasible and effective approach to high-value care education in the absence of an extensive formal curriculum.
The end of the experiment? The energy crisis, neoliberal energy, and the limits to a socio-ecological fix
Authors: Fearn Gareth
Published: May 2023

The present energy crisis is one which is rooted in the contradictions of the neoliberalisation of energy. The UK is one of the pioneers of energy neoliberalisation and has been experimenting with different market arrangements since the 1980s, yet has found itself particularly exposed to the impacts of a global energy price shock. Through an analysis of policy documents, regulatory reports and historical energy policy literature, I identify how privatisation, regulatory experiments and market engineering under a neoliberal policy paradigm helped to create the conditions for the present crisis. Drawing on Hall's conception of policy paradigms, I argue that the neoliberal policy paradigm, for energy, is locked in a cycle of interventions at the second order to manage the contradictions of the third order priority of securing privatised energy markets and maintain legitimacy for the neoliberal energy system. The current energy crisis has led to the government making increasingly extreme second order interventions to stabilise the energy system to secure the interests of electricity capital and fossil capital. The present crisis, however, exposes the limits to a socio-ecological fix (for people, and for capital) within neoliberal hegemony.
Sex Differences in Clinical Presentation and Management in Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Authors: Fogla Rhea , Glaubitz Erika , Bhatia Sanam , Ravishankar Arjun , Andy Caroline , Niec Rachel , Katz Philip
Published: May 2023

Background:

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a male predominant disease, typically presenting with dysphagia. Our goal was to investigate sex differences in clinical presentation and management of EoE.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cross-sectional review of 489 EoE patients seen at NewYork Presbyterian Weill Cornell from August 2015 to August 2019. Charts were queried for age at diagnosis, symptoms at presentation, endoscopic findings, need for dilations, and medical therapy. Student t and χ2 tests were implemented to compare outcome variables of the 2 independent groups (males vs females) and logistic regressions for invariable and multivariable analyses.

Results:

489 EoE patients (226 Female [F] [46.2%], 263 Male [M] [53.8%]) were reviewed. Males were more likely to present with food impaction (92 [35.8%] vs 44 [19.7%], M vs F, P < .001), have a fibrostenotic phenotype on initial endoscopy (140 [54.1%] vs 98 [45.0%], M vs F, P = .043) and undergo dilation (odds ratio [OR] = 1.985, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.209-3.328, P < .01). Female patients were more likely to have atopic disease (153 [67.6%] vs 153 [58.8%], F vs M, P = .044) and a reported normal index endoscopy (79 [36.2%] vs 69 [26.6%], F vs M, P = .026).

Conclusion:

This large retrospective review highlights clinically important differences in presentation between sexes. Increasing awareness of these differences, especially history of atopic disease, impaction, and the need for dilation, can help clinicians better identify EoE in female patients and therefore, guide initial therapy. The mechanistic underpinnings of these discrepancies are not evident from this data and will require future studies.
In Search of Project Management Principles
Authors: Blampied Nigel , Buttrick Robert , Jucan George , Piney Crispin (“Kik”) , Stevens Chris , Violette Dave , Max Wideman R.
Published: May 2023

The objective of this article is to determine whether a set of project management principles can be identified to serve as a common framework for developers and publishers of project management standards and guides. Twenty-two project management standards and other consensus documents were reviewed, revealing a common understanding across the globe of the requirements for effective project management. Potential statements of principles were extracted and clustered into four categories. The validated principles identified in each category were rewritten in a prespecified, consistent form. The resulting set of 12 principles should serve as a common basis for future standards and guides.
Phylogeography of cultivated and wild ophiopogon japonicus based on chloroplast DNA: exploration of the origin and sustainable cultivation
Authors: Zhao Lu-ying , Liu Yu-ling , Shen Yi , Zhang Qiao-yan , Liu Sha , Ren Qiu-ru , Qin Lu-ping , Sun Yi-qi
Published: May 2023

Background

Ophiopogon japonicus, mainly planted in Sichuan (CMD) and Zhejiang (ZMD) province in China, has a lengthy cultivation history. During the long period of domestication, the genetic diversity of cultivated O. japonicus has substantially declined, which will affect the population continuity and evolutionary potential of this species. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the phylogeography of cultivated O. japonicus to establish a theoretical basis for the utilization and conservation of the genetic resources of O. japonicus.

Result

The genetic diversity and population structure of 266 O. japonicus individual plants from 23 sampling sites were analyzed based on 4 chloroplast DNA sequences (atpB-rbcL, rpl16, psbA-trnH and rpl20-5’rps12) to identify the effects of domestication on genetic diversity of cultivars and determine their geographic origins. The results showed that cultivated O. japonicus and wild O. japonicus had 4 and 15 haplotypes respectively. The genetic diversity of two cultivars (Hd = 0.35700, π = 0.06667) was much lower than that of the wild populations (Hd = 0.76200, π = 0.20378), and the level of genetic diversity in CMD (Hd = 0.01900, π = 0.00125) was lower than that in ZMD (Hd = 0.06900, π = 0.01096). There was significant difference in genetic differentiation between the cultivated and the wild (FST = 0.82044), especially between the two cultivars (FST = 0.98254). This species showed a pronounced phylogeographical structure (NST > GST, P < 0.05). The phylogenetic tree showed that the genetic difference between CMD and ZMD was not enough to distinguish the cultivars between the two producing areas by using O. amblyphyllus Wang et Dai as an outgroup. In addition, both CMD and ZMD have a closer relationship with wild populations in Sichuan than that in Zhejiang. The results of the TCS network and species distribution model suggested that the wild population TQ located in Sichuan province could serve as the ancestor of cultivated O. japonicus, which was supported by RASP analysis.

Conclusion

These results suggest that cultivated O. japonicus has experienced dramatic loss of genetic diversity under anthropogenic influence. The genetic differentiation between CMD and ZMD is likely to be influenced by founder effect and strong artificial selection for plant traits. It appears that wild populations in Sichuan area are involved in the origin of not only CMD but also ZMD. In addition, we also raise some suggestions for planning scientific strategies for resource conservation of O. japonicus based on its genetic diversity and population structure.
Optimizing (O) rifapentine-based (RI) regimen and shortening (EN) the treatment of drug-susceptible tuberculosis (T) (ORIENT) using an adaptive seamless design: study protocol of a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Feng Zhen , Miao Yan , Peng Ying , Sun Feng , Zhang Yilin , Li Rong , Ge Shijia , Chen Xinchang , Song Lingyun , Li Yang , Wang Xiaomeng , Zhang Wenhong
Published: May 2023

Background

Standard treatment for drug-susceptible tuberculosis (DS-TB) includes a multidrug regimen requiring at least 6 months of treatment, and this lengthy treatment easily leads to poor adherence. There is an urgent need to simplify and shorten treatment regimens to reduce interruption and adverse event rates, improve compliance, and reduce costs.

Methods

ORIENT is a multicenter, randomized controlled, open-label, phase II/III, non-inferiority trial involving DS-TB patients to evaluate the safety and efficacy of short-term regimens compared with the standardized six-month treatment regimen. In stage 1, corresponding to a phase II trial, a total of 400 patients are randomly divided into four arms, stratified by site and the presence of lung cavitation. Investigational arms include 3 short-term regimens with rifapentine 10 mg/kg, 15 mg/kg, and 20 mg/kg, while the control arm uses the standardized six-month treatment regimen. A combination of rifapentine, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and moxifloxacin is administered for 17 or 26 weeks in rifapentine arms, while a 26-week regimen containing rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol is applied in the control arm. After the safety and preliminary effectiveness analysis of patients in stage 1, the control arm and the investigational arm meeting the conditions will enter into stage 2, which is equivalent to a phase III trial and will be expanded to recruit DS-TB patients. If all investigational arms do not meet the safety conditions, stage 2 will be canceled. In stage 1, the primary safety endpoint is permanent regimen discontinuation at 8 weeks after the first dose. The primary efficacy endpoint is the proportion of favorable outcomes at 78 weeks after the first dose for both two stages.

Discussion

This trial will contribute to the optimal dose of rifapentine in the Chinese population and suggest the feasibility of the short-course treatment regimen containing high-dose rifapentine and moxifloxacin for DS-TB.

Trial registration

The trial has been registered on ClinicalTrials.gov on 28 May 2022 with the identifier NCT05401071.
Addressing influenza’s underestimated burden – Iberian experts call to action
Authors: Gil-de-Miguel Ángel , Díez-Domingo Javier , Martinón-Torres Federico , Margüello Esther Redondo , de Lejarazu Leonardo Raúl Ortiz , Pumarola Tomàs , de Sousa Jaime Correia , Rabaçal Carlos , Raposo João , Cordeiro Carlos Robalo , Froes Filipe
Published: May 2023

Having a proper understanding of the impact of influenza is a fundamental step towards improved preventive action. This paper reviews findings from the Burden of Acute Respiratory Infections study on the burden of influenza in Iberia, and its potential underestimation, and proposes specific measures to lessen influenza’s impact.
Prognostic role of CD74, CD10 and Ki-67 immunohistochemical expression in patients with diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: a retrospective study
Authors: Liang Yufei , Li Chunying , Liu Yingying , Tian Liang , Yang Dongliang
Published: May 2023

Background

Diagnosis and treatment of diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM) are still challenging. The aim of the present study was to explore the correlation between CD74, CD10, Ki-67 and clinicopathological parameters, and identify independent prognostic factors of DMPM.

Methods

Seventy patients with pathologically proven DMPM were retrospectively reviewed. The expression of CD74, CD10 and Ki-67 in peritoneal tissues was detected by immunohistochemical analysis using standard avidin biotin complex (ABC) immunostaining technique. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to assess prognostic factors. The nomogram based on the Cox hazards regression model was established. C-index and calibration curve were performed to evaluate the accuracy of nomogram models.

Results

The median age of DMPM was 62.34 years, and the male-to-female ratio was 1: 1.80. CD74 expression was identified in 52 (74.29%) of 70 specimens, CD10 in 34 (48.57%) specimens, and higher Ki-67 in 33(47.14%) specimens. CD74 was negatively associated with asbestos exposure(r = -0.278), Ki-67(r = -0.251) and TNM stage(r = -0.313). All patients were effectively followed up in the survival analysis. Univariate analysis revealed that PCI, TNM stage, treatment, Ki-67, CD74 and ECOG PS were associated with DMPM prognosis. CD74 (HR = 0.65, 95%Cl:0.46–0.91, P = 0.014), Ki-67(HR = 2.09, 95%Cl:1.18–3.73, P = 0.012),TNM stage (HR = 1.89, 95%Cl:1.16–3.09, P = 0.011), ECOG PS(HR = 2.12, 95%Cl:1.06–4.25, P = 0.034), systemic chemotherapy (HR = 0.41, 95%Cl:0.21–0.82, P = 0.011) and intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HR = 0.34, 95%Cl:0.16–0.71, P = 0.004) were independent predictors by multivariate Cox analysis. The C‑index of the nomogram for predicting overall survival (OS) was 0.81. The OS calibration curve showed good agreement between nomogram-predicted and observed survival.

Conclusions

CD74, Ki-67, TNM stage, ECOG PS and treatment were independent factors affecting prognosis of DMPM. Reasonable chemotherapy treatment might improve the prognosis of patients. The proposed nomogram was a visual tool to effectively predict the OS of DMPM patients.
Symptoms compatible with long COVID in an Italian pediatric cohort of Tourette patients with and without SARS‑CoV‑2 infection: a short-term follow-up assessment
Authors: Prato Adriana , Salerno Angela Maria , Saia Federica , Maugeri Nicoletta , Zanini Alice , Scerbo Miriam , Barone Rita , Rizzo Renata
Published: May 2023

Background

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a childhood-onset neurodevelopmental disorder with a worldwide prevalence of about 0.3–1% of the population. During the pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection, the impact on the mental health of children and adolescents was very important. The persistence of symptoms in the post-acute phase of the disease has been termed Long COVID. The neuropsychiatric symptoms seem to be the most common impairment in children and adolescents with long COVID.

Objectives

Considering the impact of pandemic on mental health, in this study we analyzed the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children and adolescents affected by TS.

Methods

We conducted an online questionnaire covering socio-demographic and clinical data among 158 patients affected by TS or chronic tic disorders (CTD), of which 78 participants reported a positive SARS-CoV-2 infection. Data were collected to investigate tic severity and both the comorbidities, as well as lockdown-related changes to daily life activities and, in case of infection of SARS-CoV-2, possible symptoms of acute infection and long COVID. Markers of systemic inflammation including C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), ferritin, iron, electrolytes, white blood cell counts, platelet cell counts levels, markers of liver, kidney and thyroid function were analyzed. First, all patients were screened with the Schedule for affective disorders and Schizophrenia for School age children—present and lifetime (Kiddie-SADS-PL) to rule out primary psychiatric disorders considered as criteria of exclusion. Then, all patients were clinically assessed at baseline (T0), and after three months (T1) through the administration of Yale Global Tic Severity Rating Scale (YGTSS), Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children (MASC), Child Depression Inventory (CDI) and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL).

Results

Among the cohort of TS patients that contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection, 84.6% (n = 66) experienced any acute symptoms, and long COVID symptoms occurred in 38.5% (n = 30). A worsening of clinical symptoms of tics and eventually associated comorbidities occurred in 34.6% (n = 27) of TS patients that contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection. TS patients with or without SARS-CoV-2 infection showed an increase in the severity of tics and also behavioral, depressive and anxious symptoms. Instead, this increase was more evident in patients who contracted the infection than in patients who did not contract it.

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2 infection may have a role in the increase of tics and associated comorbidities in TS patients. Despite of these preliminary results, further investigations are necessary to improve knowledge about the acute and long-term impact of SARS-CoV-2 in TS patients.
Treating nightmares in posttraumatic stress disorder with dronabinol: study protocol of a multicenter randomized controlled study (THC PTSD-trial)
Authors: Roepke Stefan , Schoofs Nikola , Priebe Kathlen , Wülfing Felix , Schmahl Christian , Röhle Robert , Zähringer Jenny , Lotter Tobias , Otte Christian , Koglin Stefanie
Published: May 2023

Background

Distressing nightmares are a core symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and contribute to psychiatric comorbidity, impaired physical health and decreased social functioning. No specific pharmacological treatment for PTSD-related nightmares is yet approved. Preliminary clinical data indicate that cannabinoid agonists can improve nightmares and overall PTSD symptoms in patients with PTSD. The primary objective of the study is to examine the efficacy of oral dronabinol (BX-1) versus placebo in reducing nightmares in patients with PTSD. The secondary objectives of the study are to examine the efficacy of oral BX-1 in reducing other PTSD symptoms.

Methods

The study is designed as a multi-centric, double-blind, randomized (1:1), placebo-controlled, parallel group interventional trial. Eligible patients will be randomized to BX-1 or placebo, receiving a once-daily oral dose before bedtime for 10 weeks. Primary efficacy endpoint is the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-IV) B2 score for the last week, measuring frequency and intensity of nightmares. Secondary efficacy endpoints are other disorder-specific symptoms in patients with PTSD. Further, tolerability and safety of dronabinol will be assessed.

Discussion

This randomized controlled trial will provide evidence whether treating patients with PTSD and nightmares with dronabinol is safe and efficacious.

Trial registration

NCT04448808, EudraCT 2019–002211-25.
Record linkage studies of drug-related deaths among adults who were released from prison to the community: a scoping review
Authors: Cooper Janine A. , Onyeka Ifeoma , Cardwell Christopher , Paterson Euan , Kirk Richard , O’Reilly Dermot , Donnelly Michael
Published: May 2023

Background

There are public health concerns about an increased risk of mortality after release from prison. The objectives of this scoping review were to investigate, map and summarise evidence from record linkage studies about drug-related deaths among former adult prisoners.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO and Web of Science were searched for studies (January 2011- September 2021) using keywords/index headings. Two authors independently screened all titles and abstracts using inclusion and exclusion criteria and subsequently screened full publications. Discrepancies were discussed with a third author. One author extracted data from all included publications using a data charting form. A second author independently extracted data from approximately one-third of the publications. Data were entered into Microsoft Excel sheets and cleaned for analysis. Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) were pooled (where possible) using a random-effects DerSimonian-Laird model in STATA.

Results

A total of 3680 publications were screened by title and abstract, and 109 publications were fully screened; 45 publications were included. The pooled drug-related SMR was 27.07 (95%CI 13.32- 55.02; I 2 = 93.99%) for the first two weeks (4 studies), 10.17 (95%CI 3.74–27.66; I 2 = 83.83%) for the first 3–4 weeks (3 studies) and 15.58 (95%CI 7.05–34.40; I 2 = 97.99%) for the first 1 year after release (3 studies) and 6.99 (95%CI 4.13–11.83; I 2 = 99.14%) for any time after release (5 studies). However, the estimates varied markedly between studies. There was considerable heterogeneity in terms of study design, study size, location, methodology and findings. Only four studies reported the use of a quality assessment checklist/technique.

Conclusions

This scoping review found an increased risk of drug-related death after release from prison, particularly during the first two weeks after release, though drug-related mortality risk remained elevated for the first year among former prisoners. Evidence synthesis was limited as only a small number of studies were suitable for pooled analyses for SMRs due to inconsistencies in study design and methodology.
Hepatitis B prevention and treatment needs in women in Senegal (ANRS 12356 AmBASS survey)
Authors: Djaogol Tchadine , Périères Lauren , Marcellin Fabienne , Diouf Assane , Carrieri Maria Patrizia , Diallo Aldiouma , Boyer Sylvie ,   for the ANRS 12356 AmBASS Study Group, Bérenger Cyril , al Qays Bousmah Marwan , Bureau Morgane , Carrieri Patrizia , Coste Marion , de Seze Maëlle , Maradan Gwenaëlle , Treibich Carole , Ba Elhadji , Dièye Fambaye , Bilal Faye Elhadji , Ndiaye Assane , Sokhna Cheikh , Baba Sow Mouhamadou , Touré Kane Coumba , Lo Gora , Selbé Ndiaye Anna Julienne , Ndiour Samba , Halfon Philippe , Mohamed Sofiane , Rouveau Nicolas , Cortès Maria-Camila Calvo , Laborde-Balen Gabrièle , Audibert Martine , Fall Fatou , Gueye Ibrahima , Lacombe Karine , Seydi Moussa , Shimakawa Yusuke , Tuaillon Edouard , Vray Muriel
Published: May 2023

Background

Although mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is prevalent in West Africa, epidemiological data on HBV infection in women remain scarce. We studied i) hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) prevalence and its correlates, ii) HBV screening history and serological status awareness, iii) MTCT risk and treatment needs in Senegalese women.

Methods

A cross-sectional population-based serosurvey for HBsAg positivity was conducted in 2018–2019 in the rural area of Niakhar (Fatick region, Senegal). Participants were offered home-based HBV screening and answered face-to-face questionnaires. HBsAg-positive participants underwent clinical and biological assessments. Data were weighted and calibrated to be representative of the area’s population. Logistic regression models helped identify factors associated with HBsAg-positivity in adult women (> 15 years old).

Results

HBsAg prevalence in adult women was 9.2% [95% confidence interval: 7.0–11.4]. Factors associated with HBsAg-positivity were being 15–49 years old (ref: ≥ 50), living in a household with > 2 other HBsAg-positive members, and knowing someone with liver disease. Only 1.6% of women had already been tested for HBV; no one who tested HBsAg positive was already aware of their serological status. In women 15–49 years old, 5% risked MTCT and none were eligible for long-term antiviral treatment.

Conclusions

Adult women have a high HBsAg prevalence but a low MTCT risk. Low rates of HBV screening and serological status awareness argue for the adoption of systematic screening during pregnancy using free and rapid diagnostic tests. Additionally, screening household members of HBsAg-positive women may greatly improve the cascade of care in rural Senegal.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier (NCT number): NCT03215732.
Effects of non-extensible lumbar belts on static and dynamic postural stability
Authors: Bai Jingyuan , Hua Anke , Weng Dongkai , Wang Nan , Wang Jian
Published: May 2023

Background

Previous studies have found that increased intra-abdominal pressure helps to reduce spinal loading and improve spine stability. Non-extensible lumbar belts (NEBs) could elevate intra-abdominal pressure and augment spinal stability. NEBs have been used in the healthcare field to help reduce pain and improve spine function for people with low back pain. However, the effect of NEBs on static and dynamic postural stability is not clear.

Methods

This study aimed to investigate whether NEBs affect static and dynamic postural stability. Twenty-eight healthy male subjects were recruited to finish four static postural stability tasks and two dynamic postural stability tests. Center of pressure (COP) values during 30 s of quiet standing, dynamic postural stability index (DPSI) and Y balance test (YBT) score with and without NEBs were analyzed.

Results

NEBs had no significant effect in all COP variables in the static postural tasks. The results of a repeated measure two-way ANOVA indicated the NEBs significantly improved the dynamic postural stability in YBT score and DPSI (F (1,27) = 5.506, p = .027, $${{\eta }_{p}}^{2}=.169$$

η
p

2

=
.
169

and F (1,27) = 83.94, p = .000, $${{\eta }_{p}}^{2}=.757$$

η
p

2

=
.
757

respectively).

Conclusions

The study results indicate that non-extensible belts improve dynamic stability in healthy male participants, with potential implications for rehabilitation and performance enhancement programs.
Effect of quadriceps training at different levels of blood flow restriction on quadriceps strength and thickness in the mid-term postoperative period after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized controlled external pilot study
Authors: Li Xuefeng , Li Jinyu , Qing Liang , Wang Haonan , Ma Huijun , Huang Peng
Published: May 2023

Background

More than 2 million anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries occur worldwide each year. Most surgeons suggest that athletes and active persons with significant knee functional demands, including cutting motions, require and should be offered ligament reconstruction surgery. Despite concentrated rehabilitation efforts, deficits in quadriceps size and strength can persist for years after surgery. Blood flow restriction (BFR) training can help overcome disuse muscular atrophy in the mid-term postoperative period after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of quadriceps training with different levels of blood flow restriction on quadriceps strength and thickness of participants after ACLR.

Methods

In this study, 30 post-ACL reconstruction participants were randomly divided into three groups (control, 40% Arterial Occlusion Pressure [AOP] and 80% AOP groups). All patients were subjected to different levels of BFR, combined with conventional quadriceps rehabilitation, for 8 weeks. Assessments included scaled maximal isokinetic knee extension strength at 60°/s and 180°/s, the sum of the thickness of the affected femoris rectus and vastus intermedius, Y-balance test performance, and International Knee Documentation Committee questionnaire responses before and after the intervention.

Results

In total, 23 participants completed the entire study. The 80% AOP compression group showed an increase in quadriceps femoris muscle strength and muscle thickness (p < 0.01). As compared with the control group, outcome indicators in the 40% AOP and 80% AOP group were improved (p < 0.05). After 8 weeks of experimental BFR intervention, the results were better for the 80% AOP compression group than for the 40% AOP compression group in quadriceps peak torque to body weight at 60°/s and 180°/s angular velocity, as well as the sum of the thickness of the rectus femoris and vastus intermedius.

Conclusion

The combination of BFR and low-intensity quadriceps femoris training can effectively improve the muscle strength and thickness of knee extensors in participants with ACLR and help reduce the difference between the healthy and surgical sides of the knee joint while improving knee-joint function. Choosing quadriceps training with 80% AOP compression intensity could provide the most benefits. Meanwhile, BFR can accelerate the rehabilitation process of patients and allow early entry into the next rehabilitation cycle.

Registration

Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, registration number ChiCTR2100050011, date of registration: 15/08/2021.