bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing the Acceptance of Smartphone-Based Data Collection
Authors: Wenz Alexander , Keusch Florian
Published: June 2023

To study human behavior, social scientists are increasingly collecting data from mobile apps and sensors embedded in smartphones. A major challenge of studies implemented on general population samples, however, is that participation rates are rather low. While previous research has started to investigate the factors affecting individuals’ decision to participate in such studies, less is known about features of the study design which are under the researcher’s control and can increase the acceptance of smartphone-based data collection methods. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model, we varied study characteristics in a vignette experiment to examine their effect on individuals’ willingness to download a research app on their smartphone. Data were collected from 1,876 members of the NORC AmeriSpeak Panel, a probability-based panel of the general population aged 18+ in the United States. Respondents were randomly assigned to eight vignettes and, after each vignette, were asked to rate their willingness to participate in the described hypothetical study. The results show that individuals are more willing to participate in smartphone-based studies where they have some control over the data collection process, by having the option either to temporarily switch off the data collection or to review the data before submission. Furthermore, they are more willing to participate in research to which they are invited via postal letter rather than receiving a postal letter plus a phone call from an interviewer who walks them through the app installation. Finally, unconditional incentives increase their willingness to engage with smartphone-based data collection over conditional incentives.
Inheritance of Partial Resistance to Isolate VdLs17 of Verticillium dahliae Within Lactuca spp.
Authors: Nayak Santosh , Richardson Kelley
Published: June 2023

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) production is greatly threatened by Verticillium wilt, which is caused by three pathogenic races (races 1, 2, and 3) of the soilborne fungus Verticillium dahliae. Race 1 is predominant, and resistant varieties that provide full protection against it are commercially available. However, heavily relying on race 1-resistant cultivars could shift the population towards resistance-breaking isolates and impact the durability of plant resistance. This study determined the inheritance of partial resistance to isolate VdLs17 of V. dahliae within Lactuca spp. using 258 F2:3 progeny generated from a cross between two partially resistant accessions, 11G99 (L. serriola) and PI 171674 (L. sativa). Eight experiments were performed under greenhouse and growth room conditions across 3 years using a randomized complete block design, and segregation analysis was conducted to determine the inheritance pattern. The results indicate that partial resistance to isolate VdLs17 of V. dahliae is conditioned by a two-major-gene genetic model with additive-dominance-epistatic effects. Transgressive segregants were infrequent but observed in both directions, indicating that favorable and adverse alleles are dispersed in both parents. Combining favorable alleles of these two partially resistant parents appears to be challenging because of epistatic effects and a significant role of environment in disease severity. The probability of capturing favorable additive genes could be maximized by generating and evaluating a large population and making selections at late generations. This study provides valuable insights into the inheritance pattern of partial resistance to isolate VdLs17 of V. dahliae that will be helpful in designing efficient breeding strategies in lettuce.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Clinicopathological significance of unraveling mitochondrial pathway alterations in non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Hertweck Kate L. , Vikramdeo Kunwar S. , Galeas Jose N. , Marbut Stephen M. , Pramanik Paramahansa , Yunus Furhan , Singh Seema , Singh Ajay P. , Dasgupta Santanu
Published: June 2023

Early detection, accurate monitoring, and therapeutics are major problems in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. We identified genomic copy number variation of a unique panel of 40 mitochondria‐targeted genes in NSCLCs (GEOGSE #29365). Validation of mRNA expression of these molecules revealed an altered panel of 34 genes in lung adenocarcinomas (LUAD) and 36 genes in lung squamous cell carcinomas (LUSC). In the LUAD subtype (n = 533), we identified 29 upregulated and 5 downregulated genes, while in the LUSC subtype (n = 502), a panel of 30 upregulated and 6 downregulated genes were discovered. The majority of these genes are associated with mitochondrial protein transport, ferroptosis, calcium signaling, metabolism, OXPHOS function, TCA cycle, apoptosis, and MARylation. Altered mRNA expression of SLC25A4, ACSF2, MACROD1, and GCAT was associated with poor survival of the NSCLC patients. Progressive loss of SLC25A4 protein expression was confirmed in NSCLC tissues (n = 59), predicting poor survival of the patients. Forced overexpression of SLC25A4 in two LUAD cell lines inhibited their growth, viability, and migration. A significant association of the altered mitochondrial pathway genes with LC subtype‐specific classical molecular signatures was observed, implicating the existence of nuclear‐mitochondrial cross‐talks. Key alteration signatures shared between LUAD and LUSC subtypes including SLC25A4, ACSF2, MACROD1, MDH2, LONP1, MTHFD2, and CA5A could be helpful in developing new biomarkers and therapeutics.
Farnesyl diphosphate synthase exacerbates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis via the activation of AHR‐CD36 axis
Authors: Liu Jun , Zhang Xinxin , Zhang Yufei , Qian Minyi , Yang Maohui , Yang Song , Wang Lirui
Published: June 2023

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has become a major concern that threatens human health worldwide. The underlying pathogenesis was crucial but remained poorly understood. Here, we found that the expression of hepatic farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FDPS) was increased in mice and patients with NASH. Elevated FDPS levels were positively correlated with NASH severity. Overexpression of FDPS in mice provoked increased lipid accumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis, while hepatic FDPS deficiency protected mice from NASH progression. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of FDPS with clinically used alendronate remarkably attenuated NASH‐associated phenotypes in mice. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that FDPS increased its downstream product farnesyl pyrophosphate levels, which could function as an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) agonist to upregulate the expression of fatty acid translocase CD36, to accelerate the development of NASH. Collectively, these findings suggest that FDPS exacerbates NASH via AHR‐CD36 axis and identify FDPS as a promising target for NASH therapy.
Determinants of American Adults' Use of Digital Health and Willingness to Share Health Data to Providers, Family, and Social Media
Authors: Tolentino Dante Anthony , Costa Deena K. , Jiang Yun
Published: June 2023

With the global pandemic driving the adoption of digital health, understanding the predictors or determinants of digital health usage and information sharing gives an opportunity to advocate for broader adoption. We examined the prevalence and predictors of digital health usage and information-sharing behaviors among American adults. Data were from the Health Information National Trends Survey 5 Cycle 4. More than two-thirds used a digital resource for health-related activities (eg, to check test results). About 81% were willing to share their digital data with their provider, 75% with family, and 58% with friends. Only 14% shared health information on social media. Gender, education, device types, and performance expectancy of digital health were common factors associated with both digital health usage and information-sharing behaviors. Other predictors included rurality, patient portal access, income, and having a chronic disease. Of note, we found that Asian American Pacific Islanders, compared with Whites, were less likely to share information with providers. Performance expectancy was a significant determinant of information sharing. Those diagnosed with diabetes were 4% less likely to share information with their providers. With the growing digital divide, there is a need to advocate for more usable and accessible digital health to assist with person-centered care.
Testosterone use for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in postmenopausal women
Authors: Parish Sharon J. , Kling Juliana M.
Published: June 2023

Testosterone is an important evidence-based therapy for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in postmenopausal women. Clinical practice guidelines based on the most comprehensive meta-analysis of benefits and risks of testosterone therapy to date state that the sole evidence-based indication for testosterone therapy is HSDD in postmenopausal women. The guidelines also provide recommendations regarding identification of patients, dosing, monitoring, and follow-up. This Practice Pearl will discuss evidence-based testosterone therapy for management of HSDD in postmenopausal women.
Reconceptualization of Proximal Nail Fold Reconstruction: Skin Grafting over the Nail Plate
Authors: Hara Runa , Matsumoto Daisuke , Funabashi Hitomi
Published: June 2023

The structure of the periungual area is complicated, resulting in historically difficult morphological reconstruction after trauma or cancer resection. There is also no established standard for its reconstruction; thus, we aimed to use a full-thickness skin graft (FTSG) over the nail plate. Three patients with Bowen disease on their proximal nail fold (PNF) underwent excision with a 2-mm margin preserving the nail matrix, and a temporary wound dressing was applied. The FTSG was harvested from the ipsilateral ulnar wrist joint and placed over the skin defect, including the nail plate. Initially, the FTSG seemed to have shrunken; however, after 3 months, it extended and the PNF had a good color and texture match. Remarkably, the FTSG adhered to the nail plate, and the complex PNF structure appeared well reconstructed. Occasionally, a local flap is used; however, it is limited to small defects and causes a deformity of the periungual structure. In this study, the reconstructed PNF showed good results. We presumed that the bridging phenomenon caused graft survival on the nail plate, and that the presence of stem cells near the nail matrix caused graft extension and eponychium and cuticle regeneration. Specifically, the acquisition of sufficient raw surface around the nail plate and wound preparation after excision resulted in the former, and the nail matrix preservation after excision contributed to the latter. This surgical technique is simple and can therefore be considered a remarkably effective method for periungual area reconstruction to date.
Comparison of Visual Field Test Measurements With a Novel Approach on a Wearable Headset to Standard Automated Perimetry
Authors: Johnson Catherine , Sayed Ahmed , McSoley John , Durbin Mary , Kashem Rashed , Nicklin Alexandra , Lopez Valeria , Mijares Georgeana , Chen Michael , Shaheen Abdulla , Segarra Steven , Rady Nadine , Duque Christian Andres , Opoku-Baah Collins , Abou Shousha Mohamed
Published: June 2023

Précis:

This study of inter-test comparability of a novel visual field application installed on an augmented-reality portable headset and Humphrey field analyzer Swedish interactive thresholding algorithm (SITA) Standard visual field test demonstrates the excellent correlation of mean deviation (MD) and mean sensitivity (MS).

Purpose:

To determine the correlation between visual field testing with novel software on a wearable headset versus standard automated perimetry.

Patients and Methods:

Patients with and without visual field defects attributable to glaucoma had visual field testing in one eye of each patient with 2 methods: re:Imagine Strategy (Heru, Inc.) and the Humphrey field analyzer (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc.) SITA Standard 24-2 program. Main outcome measures included MS and MD, which were evaluated by linear regression, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and Bland Altman analysis for assessment of the mean difference and limits of agreement.

Results:

Measurements from 89 eyes of 89 patients (18 normal and 71 glaucomas) were compared with both instruments. Linear regression analysis demonstrated an excellent Pearson correlation coefficient of r = 0.94 for MS and r = 0.95 for MD. ICC analysis demonstrated high levels of concordance (ICC = 0.95, P < 0.001 for MS and ICC = 0.94, P < 0.001 for MD). Bland-Altman analysis determined a small mean difference between the two devices (Heru minus Humphrey) of 1.15 dB for MS and 1.06 dB for MD.

Conclusions:

The Heru visual field test correlated well with SITA Standard in a population of normal eyes and eyes with glaucoma.
Comparison of Repeat Trabeculectomy Versus Ahmed Valve Implantation After Initial Failed Trabeculectomy Surgery
Authors: Van Swol Joshua M. , Walden Delaney N. , Van Swol Elizabeth G. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Nutaitis Matthew J. , Kassm Tala M.
Published: June 2023

Précis:

Repeat trabeculectomy is associated with similar postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), a lower complication rate, and a lower need for medications when compared with Ahmed valve implantation (AVI) when performed after initially failed trabeculectomy.

Objective:

The goal of this study was to compare the efficacy of repeat trabeculectomies and AVI after an initial failed trabeculectomy.

Methods:

All studies that investigated the postoperative success of patients who underwent AVI or repeat trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C after a prior failed trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C found in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and CINAHL were included. Mean preoperative and postoperative IOP, proportions of complete and qualified successes, and proportions of complications were extracted from each study. Meta-analyses were performed to compare the differences between the two surgical approaches. Methods of measuring complete and qualified success were too heterogeneous among the included studies to allow for meta-analysis.

Results:

The literature search yielded 1305 studies, and 14 studies were included in the final analysis. Mean IOP was not significantly different between the two groups preoperatively and then after 1, 2, and 3 years. Mean number of medications between the two groups was similar preoperatively. After 1 and 2 years, the mean amount of glaucoma medications in the AVI group was approximately twice that of the trabeculectomy group; however, this relationship was only significant at 1 year of follow-up (P = 0.042). In addition, the cumulative proportion of overall and sight-threatening complications was significantly higher in the AVI group.

Conclusion:

Repeat trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C and AVI may both be considered after failed primary trabeculectomy. However, our analysis suggests that repeat trabeculectomy may be the preferred method as it provides similar efficacy with fewer disadvantages.
Optic Nerve Head Changes After Intraocular Pressure-Lowering Glaucoma Surgeries Using Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Silveira Victoria d’Azevedo , Lindenmeyer Rodrigo Leivas , Pakter Helena Messinger , Skaat Alon , Lavinsky Daniel , Oliveira Monica , Picceti Egidio , Lavinsky Jaco , de Arruda Mello Paulo Augusto , Lavinsky Fabio
Published: June 2023

Précis:

Optic nerve head (ONH) changes were detected with swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) after intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering glaucoma surgeries.

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to detect changes in the ONH with SS-OCT after IOP-lowering procedures.

Patients and Methods:

Patients with progressing glaucoma who were referred for IOP-lowering procedures were included. The participants underwent a 24-2 visual field test and SS-OCT (DRI OCT Triton Plus; Topcon). IOP and SS-OCT scans were obtained during the preoperative period and up to 7 days and 30–90 days postoperatively. ONH parameters were measured with a B-scan at the center of the optic disc and an average of 5 central B-scans. The hypotenuse of the ONH cup (HOC) was calculated using the Pythagorean theorem: hypotenuse2 = leg12 + leg22, considering the length and depth of the cup as the legs of a right triangle. We also evaluated changes in Bruch membrane opening (BMO)-to-BMO diameter. Statistical analysis was performed using generalized estimating equations.

Results:

A total of 15 eyes were included. The mean patient age was 70 (SD, 11.04) years. The mean circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer was 60.13 (SD, 23.21) µm and the visual field mean deviation was −13.29 (SD, 8.5) dB. The mean IOP at each visit was: 20.5 (SD, 4.99); 11 (SD, 4.95), and 15.7 (SD, 5.04), respectively. The mean HOC, the mean depth and length of the ONH cup, and the BMO-to-BMO diameter decreased significantly after the IOP-lowering procedures.

Conclusions:

The HOC evaluated with SS-OCT significantly decreased after IOP-lowering surgeries. This parameter was useful for evaluating short-term changes in the ONH.
Trends in Influenza and Related Health Resource Use During 2005–2021 Among Children in Japan
Authors: Okubo Yusuke , Uda Kazuhiro , Miyairi Isao
Published: June 2023

Background:

To determine the epidemiological trends in pediatric influenza and changes in healthcare resource use from 2005 to 2021 using nationally representative outpatient database in Japan.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study consisting of 3.5 million children with 177 million person-months during 2005–2021 using Japan Medical Data Center claims database in Japan. We investigated trends in incidence rates of influenza and changes in healthcare resource use (eg, use of antivirals) over 17 years. Generalized estimation equations were used to investigate the impact of the 2009 influenza pandemic and the coronaviral disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on incidence rates of influenza and related healthcare utilization.

Results:

Annual incidence rates of influenza were estimated at 55 cases per 1000 person-years with a 93% relative increase [95% confidence interval (CI): 80%–107%] during the 2009 influenza pandemic and a 99.4% relative reduction (95% CI: 99.3%–99.4%) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Similar patterns were observed for health resource use, total healthcare costs, admission rates and antiviral agent use. Approximately 80% of children with influenza received prescriptions for antivirals. The most prescribed antivirals were oseltamivir, but we observed a temporal increase in zanamivir use during 2007–2009, an increasing trend in laminamivir use during 2010–2017, a temporal increase in baloxavir use in 2018. Symptomatic medications with serious side effects (codeine, salicylate, sedative antihistamine) showed decreasing trends over the study period.

Conclusions:

Influenza incidence and healthcare resource use were largely affected by the 2009 influenza pandemic and the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study indicates improvement of quality in healthcare delivered to children.
Characteristics of retracted publications related to pain research: a systematic review
Authors: Ferraro Michael C. , Moore R. Andrew , de C Williams Amanda C. , Fisher Emma , Stewart Gavin , Ferguson McKenzie C. , Eccleston Christopher , O'Connell Neil E.
Published: June 2023

Retraction is a mechanism for correcting the scientific record and alerts readers when a study contains unreliable or flawed data. Such data may arise from error or research misconduct. Studies examining the landscape of retracted publications provide insight into the extent of unreliable data and its effect on a medical discipline. We aimed to explore the extent and characteristics of retracted publications in pain research. We searched the EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Retraction Watch databases to December 31, 2022. We included retracted articles that (1) investigated mechanisms of painful conditions, (2) tested treatments that aimed to reduce pain, or (3) measured pain as an outcome. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the included data. We included 389 pain articles published between 1993 and 2022 and retracted between 1996 and 2022. There was a significant upward trend in the number of retracted pain articles over time. Sixty-six percent of articles were retracted for reasons relating to misconduct. The median (interquartile range) time from article publication to retraction was 2 years (0.7-4.3). The time to retraction differed by reason for retraction, with data problems, comprising data falsification, duplication, and plagiarism, resulting in the longest interval (3 [1.2-5.2] years). Further investigations of retracted pain articles, including exploration of their fate postretraction, are necessary to determine the impact of unreliable data on pain research.
Improving Golden Hour Care Coordination
Authors: Ardern Julena , Hayward Brooke , Vandal Alain C. , Martin-Babin Margot , Coomarasamy Christin , McKinlay Chris
Published: June 2023

Study Aim:

To investigate whether use of admission lanyards improves nurse confidence, care coordination, and infant health outcomes during neonatal emergency admissions.

Methods:

Admission lanyards that defined team roles, tasks, and responsibilities were evaluated in a mixed-methods, historically controlled, and nonrandomized intervention study. Methods included (i) 81 pre- and postintervention surveys to explore nurse confidence, (ii) 8 postintervention semistructured interviews to elicit nurse perceptions of care coordination and nurse confidence, and (iii) a quantitative comparison of infant care coordination and health outcomes for 71 infant admissions before and 72 during the intervention.

Results:

Nurse participants reported that using lanyards during neonatal admissions improved clarity of roles and responsibilities, communication, and task delegation, contributing to better admission flow, team leadership, accountability, and improved nurse confidence. Care coordination outcomes showed significantly improved time to stabilization for intervention infants. Radiographies for line placement were performed 14.4 minutes faster, and infants commenced intravenous nutrition 27.7 minutes faster from time of admission. Infant health outcomes remained similar between groups.

Conclusion:

Admission lanyards were associated with improved nurse confidence and care coordination during neonatal emergency admissions, significantly reducing time to stabilization for infants, shifting outcomes closer to the Golden Hour.
Application of Knee Robotic Orthosis to Improve the Walking Performance of People with Post-Polio Syndrome
Authors: Ng Chu Kei , Wong Kin Fong , Yu King Pong , Chan Ka Leung , Ng Sin Wa Serena
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Poliomyelitis has been considered a statutory notifiable infectious disease in Hong Kong since 1948. Approximately 15% to 80% of patients suffer from post-polio syndrome (PPS) with an increased risk of falling and chronic pain. Most of them relied on the use of knee lock-type orthoses as aids. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of using a custom-fit knee robotic orthosis on their gait performance.

Materials and Methods

A case series report was used for this study on a group of individuals suffering from chronic PPS who used orthoses and had a history of falling. A knee robotic orthosis was custom-fit for eight sessions of walking practice. Assessments included laboratory gait analysis, functional measures, and subjective ratings of exertional level. Pain responses were recorded to evaluate the effect of using the knee robotic orthosis on participants’ gait performance.

Results

Five participants completed the study in using the knee robotic orthosis. All achieved reduction in shoulder tilting and trunk swaying movement on walking at the anterior-posterior and the medial-lateral direction. A total of 80% of the study participants achieved reduction in trunk rotation movement, lower-limb circumduction, and hip hiking movement on the affected side on walking. All study participants were able to demonstrate improvement in their gait symmetry after using the knee robotic orthosis as reflected by the symmetric index improvement of kinematics. The rate of perceived exertion and the visual analog scale of pain in all study participants were reported lower when they used the knee robotic orthosis. However, the 10-m walking time achieved was longer.

Conclusions

The knee robotic orthosis had a positive effect on remediating the abnormal kinematics of PPS patients using conventional lock-knee orthosis after eight sessions of training practice. Reduction in the limping gait pattern and improvement in gait symmetry was achieved in using a knee robotic orthosis for walking. The chronic pain response and the physical exertional level on walking were also reduced. However, the walking speed achieved was slower.

Clinical Relevance

The application of the knee robotic orthosis for walking assist is new to most of the PPS patients. The positive outcomes achieved merit further research for future clinical practice.
Efficacy of Rifaximin in Patients With Abdominal Bloating or Distension
Authors: Arora Umang , Sachdeva Karan , Garg Prerna , Baitha Upendra , Kedia Saurabh , Kalaivani Mani , Ahuja Vineet , Kumar Arvind , Ranjan Piyush , Vikram Naval K. , Sinha Sanjeev , Biswas Ashutosh , Wig Naveet
Published: June 2023

Background:

Abdominal bloating is a common complaint in patients with functional and organic bowel disease. Rifaximin, a nonabsorbable antibiotic, has been tried for the treatment of this disease. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to study the efficacy of rifaximin in abdominal bloating and distension in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID).

Methods:

We accessed 4 databases (MEDLINE, Embase, SCOPUS, and Web of Science) to identify randomized placebo-controlled trials that utilized rifaximin in FGID. We excluded observational studies, those including patients with organic bowel disorders such as inflammatory bowel diseases, or those in which rifaximin was given for other indications, such as hepatic encephalopathy.

Results:

A total of 1426 articles were available, of which 813 articles were screened after removing duplicates and 34 articles were selected for full-text review. Finally, 10 trials (3326 patients) were included. Rifaximin was administered in doses ranging from 400 to 1650 mg per day for 1 to 2 weeks. Rifaximin therapy led to a higher likelihood of improvement in symptoms of bloating (44.6% vs. 34.6%, RR 1.22, 95% CI 1.11, 1.35; n=2401 patients) without significant heterogeneity. However, daily doses less than 1200 mg/day were similar to placebo (P=0.09). Bloating was quantified subjectively in 7 studies, and rifaximin led to a greater reduction in bloating scores compared with placebo (standardized mean difference −0.3, 95% CI −0.51, −0.1, P=0.04) but carried significant heterogeneity (I
2=61.6%, P=0.01).

Conclusions:

Rifaximin therapy is associated with an increased likelihood of improvement in bloating and distension, as well as reduces the subjective severity of these symptoms in patients with FGID.
Second Version of the Short Form 6-Dimension Value Set Elicited From Patients With Breast and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Touré Moustapha , Pavic Michel , Poder Thomas G.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Quality-adjusted life-year instruments help comparison among programs by capturing their effects in terms of utility. Generic instruments are applicable to everyone, and for this reason, they are known to lack sensitivity when measuring gains in some domains. Specific instruments tend to fill this gap but, in domains like cancer, existing instruments are either nonpreferences-based or based on the general population’s preferences.

Patients and Methods:

This study describes the development of a new value set for a well-known and highly used generic instrument, the Second Version of the Short Form 6-Dimension, to better consider the preferences of patients with cancer. In this aim, a hybrid approach combining the time trade-off and the discrete choice experiment was used. The population of interest was the Quebec population, Canada, with breast or colorectal cancer. Their preferences were elicited in 2 periods: before (T1) and 8 days after the beginning of a chemotherapy procedure (T2).

Results:

A total of 2808 observations for the time trade-off and 2520 observations for the discrete choice experiment were used. The parsimonious model encompassing the 2 periods was the preferred model. The new value set allows a greater utility range than the EQ-5D-5L and the Second Version of the Short Form 6-Dimension reference value sets and helps in better considering patients experiencing severe health situations. A good correlation between these 2 instruments and other specific cancer instruments (ie, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire, QLU-C10D, and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General) was observed. Significative differences in utility values were also noted within periods and types of cancer.
Adverse Childhood Experiences, Depression, and Intimate Partner Violence Among Chinese Immigrant Women
Authors: Li Yang , Dong Fanghong , Herbell Kayla
Published: June 2023

Background

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with an increased risk of depression and intimate partner violence (IPV). Social support and partner support may help explain this association. Few researchers have focused on Chinese immigrant women, who are less likely than native-born women to seek help for mental health challenges and IPV.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the mediation effects of social and partner support on the relationship between (a) ACEs and (b) depressive symptoms and IPV among Chinese immigrant women living in the United States.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of data from 475 Chinese immigrant women recruited online. Depressive symptoms, IPV, ACEs, perceived social support, and perceived partner support were measured cross-sectionally. Mediation analyses were conducted to test the mediating role of social and partner support on the associations between ACEs and depressive symptoms and IPV.

Results

Social support and partner support fully mediated the relationship between ACEs and depressive symptoms. However, partner support only partially mediated the relationship between ACEs and IPV.

Discussion

ACEs indirectly affect depressive symptoms by undermining both general perceptions of support and perceived partner support. The findings of this study underscore the critical influence of a lack of partner support in mediating the effects of ACEs on Chinese immigrant women’s risk of IPV. Promoting strong existing support networks, creating new support resources, and improving partner relationships are important targets for interventions to mitigate the effects of ACEs on depression and IPV in Chinese immigrant women.
Viral Detection Is Associated With Severe Disease in Children With Suspected Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Ramgopal Sriram , Cotter Jillian M. , Navanandan Nidhya , Shah Samir S. , Ruddy Richard M. , Ambroggio Lilliam , Florin Todd A.
Published: June 2023

Objective

To evaluate the role of virus detection on disease severity among children presenting to the emergency department (ED) with suspected community-acquired pneumonia (CAP).

Methods

We performed a single-center prospective study of children presenting to a pediatric ED with signs and symptoms of a lower respiratory tract infection and who had a chest radiograph performed for suspected CAP. We included patients who had virus testing, with results classified as negative for virus, human rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and other viruses. We evaluated the association between virus detection and disease severity using a 4-tiered measure of disease severity based on clinical outcomes, ranging from mild (discharged from the ED) to severe (receipt of positive-pressure ventilation, vasopressors, thoracostomy tube placement, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, intensive care unit admission, diagnosis of severe sepsis or septic shock, or death) in models adjusted for age, procalcitonin, C-reactive protein, radiologist interpretation of the chest radiograph, presence of wheeze, fever, and provision of antibiotics.

Results

Five hundred seventy-three patients were enrolled in the parent study, of whom viruses were detected in 344 (60%), including 159 (28%) human rhinovirus, 114 (20%) RSV, and 34 (6%) with influenza. In multivariable models, viral infections were associated with increasing disease severity, with the greatest effect noted with RSV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.50; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.30–4.81) followed by rhinovirus (aOR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.27–3.76). Viral detection was not associated with increased severity among patients with radiographic pneumonia (n = 223; OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 0.87–3.87) but was associated with severity among patients without radiographic pneumonia (n = 141; OR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.40–4.59).

Conclusions

The detection of a virus in the nasopharynx was associated with more severe disease compared with no virus; this finding persisted after adjustment for age, biomarkers, and radiographic findings. Viral testing may assist with risk stratification of patients with lower respiratory tract infections.
Accuracy of the American College of Surgeons Minimum Criteria for Full Trauma Team Activation for Children
Authors: Lerner E. Brooke , Drendel Amy L. , Badawy Mohamed , Cushman Jeremy T. , Fumo Nicole , Jones Courtney M.C. , Shah Manish N. , Gourlay David M.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Pediatric trauma centers use reports from emergency medical service providers to determine if a trauma team should be sent to the emergency department to prepare to care for the patient. Little scientific evidence supports the current American College of Surgeons (ACS) indicators for trauma team activation. The objective of this study was to determine the accuracy of the ACS Minimum Criteria for Full Trauma Team Activation for children as well as the accuracy of the modified criteria used at the local sites for trauma activation.

Methods

Emergency medical service providers who transported an injured child aged 15 years or younger to a pediatric trauma center in 1 of 3 cities were interviewed after emergency department arrival. Emergency medical service providers were asked if each of the activation indicators were present based on their evaluation. The need for full trauma team activation was determined through a medical record review using a published criterion standard definition. Undertriage and overtriage rates and positive likelihood ratios (+LRs) were calculated.

Results

Emergency medical service provider interviews were conducted and outcome data were obtained for 9483 children. There were 202 (2.1%) cases that met the criterion standard for need for trauma team activation. Based on the ACS Minimum Criteria, 299 (3.0%) cases should have received a trauma activation. The ACS Minimum Criteria undertriaged 44.1% and overtriaged 20% (+LR, 27.9; 95% confidence interval, 23.1–33.7). Based on the actual activation status using the local criteria, 238 cases received a full trauma activation, 45% were undertriaged, and 1.4% were overtriaged (+LR, 40.1; 95% confidence interval, 32.4–49.7). There was 97% agreement between the ACS Minimum Criteria and the actual local activation status at the receiving institution.

Conclusions

The ACS Minimum Criteria for Full Trauma Team Activation for children have a high rate of undertriage. Changes that individual institutions have made to improve the accuracy of activations at their institutions seem to have had a limited effect on decreasing undertriage.
Risk of Injury-Related Readmission Varies by Initial Presenting-Hospital Type Among Children at High Risk for Physical Abuse
Authors: Snyder Christopher W. , Barry Tara M. , Ciesla David J. , Thatch Keith , Danielson Paul D. , Chandler Nicole M. , Pracht Etienne E.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Children experiencing physical abuse may initially present to hospitals with underappreciated minor injuries, only to experience more severe injuries in the future. The objectives of this study were to 1) describe young children presenting with high-risk diagnoses for physical abuse, 2) characterize the hospitals to which they initially presented, and 3) evaluate associations of initial presenting-hospital type with subsequent admission for injury.

Methods

Patients aged younger than 6 years from the 2009–2014 Florida Agency for Healthcare Administration database with high-risk diagnoses (codes previously associated with >70% risk of child physical abuse) were included. Patients were categorized by the hospital type to which they initially presented: community hospital, adult/combined trauma center, or pediatric trauma center. Primary outcome was subsequent injury-related hospital admission within 1 year. Association of initial presenting-hospital type with outcome was evaluated with multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for demographics, socioeconomic status, preexisting comorbidities, and injury severity.

Results

A total of 8626 high-risk children met inclusion criteria. Sixty-eight percent of high-risk children initially presented to community hospitals. At 1 year, 3% of high-risk children had experienced subsequent injury-related admission. On multivariable analysis, initial presentation to a community hospital was associated with higher risk of subsequent injury-related admission (odds ratio, 4.03 vs level 1/pediatric trauma center; 95% confidence interval, 1.83–8.86). Initial presentation to a level 2 adult or combined adult/pediatric trauma center was also associated with higher risk for subsequent injury-related admission (odds ratio, 3.19; 95% confidence interval, 1.40–7.27).

Conclusions

Most children at high risk for physical abuse initially present to community hospitals, not dedicated trauma centers. Children initially evaluated in high-level pediatric trauma centers had lower risk of subsequent injury-related admission. This unexplained variability suggests stronger collaboration is needed between community hospitals and regional pediatric trauma centers at the time of initial presentation to recognize and protect vulnerable children.
Patients Who Decompensate and Trigger Rapid Response Immediately Upon Hospital Admission Have Higher Mortality Than Equivalent Patients Without Rapid Responses
Authors: Lykins V Joseph D. , Freedman Matthew T. , Zemore Zachary , Sedhai Yub Raj , Lubin Shannon , Sessler Curtis N. , Hogan Christopher , Kashiouris Markos G.
Published: June 2023

Background

Rapid response teams (RRTs) have impacted the management of decompensating patients, potentially improving mortality. Few studies address the significance of RRT timing relative to hospital admission. We aimed to identify outcomes of adult patients who trigger immediate RRT activation, defined as within 4 hours of admission and compare with RRT later in admission or do not require RRT activation, and identify risk factors that predispose toward immediate RRT activation.

Methods

A retrospective case-control study was performed using an RRT activation database, comprising 201,783 adult inpatients at an urban, academic, tertiary care hospital. This group was subdivided by timing of RRT activation regarding admission: within the first 4 hours (immediate RRT), between 4 and 24 hours (early RRT), and after 24 hours (late RRT). The primary outcome was 28-day all-cause mortality. Individuals triggering an immediate RRT were compared with demographically matched controls. Mortality was adjusted for age, Quick Systemic Organ Failure Assessment score, intensive care unit admission, and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index.

Results

Patients with immediate RRT had adjusted 28-day all-cause mortality of 7.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.6%–8.5%) and death odds ratio of 3.27 (95% CI, 2.5–4.3) compared with those who did not (mortality, 2.9%; 95%CI, 2.8%–2.9%; P < 0.0001). Patients triggering an immediate RRT were more likely to be Black, be older, and have higher Quick Systemic Organ Failure Assessment scores than those who did not trigger RRT activation.

Conclusions

In this cohort, patients who require immediate RRT experienced higher 28-day all-cause mortality, potentially because of evolving or unrecognized critical illness. Further exploring this phenomenon may create opportunities for improved patient safety.
Association between LH level decrease on the triggering day and pregnancy outcome for IVF/ICSI patients following GnRH antagonist protocol: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Li Qing-Fang , Tang Min-Yue , Wang Gui-Quan , Chen Xi-Jing , Feng Guo-Fang , Zhu Yi-Min
Published: June 2023

Objective:

Optimal luteinizing hormone (LH) levels for in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) patients following the GnRH antagonist protocol remain controversial. This study aimed to estimate the association between serum LH levels on the triggering day (LHLOT) and clinical pregnancy outcomes in IVF/ICSI patients following the GnRH antagonist protocol.

Methods:

We enrolled 4743 IVF/ICSI cycles using flexible or fixed GnRH antagonist protocols between January 2017 and June 2021. The patients were stratified into four groups according to the LHLOT quartiles (Q1-Q4). Each group was further divided into two subgroups according to the median basal LH/LHLOT. The main outcomes were clinical pregnancy, birth, and miscarriage rates. Secondary outcomes were oocyte yield, number of MII, 2PN, and high-quality embryos.

Results:

Serum LHLOT levels were negatively correlated with oocyte yield and the numbers of MII, 2PN, and high-quality embryos. Reproductive outcomes were compared among the different quartiles and subgroups. The absolute difference in the clinical pregnancy rates between the Q4 and Q1 groups was 6.4% (47.2% vs. 40.8%, P˂0.05). Clinical pregnancy rates between the subgroups with basal LH/LHLOT˃ 3.04 and ≤ 3.04 were 32.7% and 48.6% (P˂0.01), respectively, in Q1. Within Q3, the clinical pregnancy rates between the subgroups with basal LH/LHLOT ˃2.14 and ≤2.14 were 50.2% and 41.9%, respectively (P˂0.05). The greater the decrease in LH levels, the lower the oocyte maturation rate across all quartiles.

Conclusions:

According to the LHLOT quartiles, the Q1 of serum LHLOT ˂ 1.43 IU/L may result in a higher number of oocytes but reduced oocyte maturation and lower clinical pregnancy rates. A decrease in LH levels by approximately 2.14–3.04 times compared to basal LH levels may lead to higher clinical pregnancy rates in IVF/ICSI patients following the GnRH antagonist protocol.
Factors influencing the accuracy of sonography-estimated fetal weight: a retrospective cohort study in the Chinese population
Authors: Sun Fang-Can , Wang Hai-Hong , Zhang Jing-Jing , Gu Xin-Xian , Hu Ting , Wang Ming-Yue , Zhu Yin-Di , Chen You-Guo , Han Bing
Published: June 2023

Objective:

To evaluate the accuracy of sonography-estimated fetal weight (EFW) and to determine the potential factors influencing EFW accuracy in the Chinese population.

Methods:

Eleven widely used formulae were chosen to evaluate the accuracy of EFW in 7016 cases in a retrospective cohort study. Nine potential factors (prenatal body mass index (BMI), gestational age (GA), birth weight (BW), fetal sex, fetal presentation, amniotic fluid volume (AFV), seniority of sonographers, the time interval between ultrasonic measurement and delivery, and diabetes mellitus) were analyzed by binary logistic regression to determine whether they influenced sonography-EFW.

Results:

All 11 models had high correlation coefficients between EFW and BW (r = 0.819–0.843). Model 3 was the most accurate formula for the Chinese population. Compared to fetuses with EFW of 2500g–3999g, the accuracy of EFW decreased by 69.10% (P<0.001) for fetuses less than 2500g, and decreased by 54.10% (P<0.001) for fetuses larger than 4000g. The accuracy of EFW in female fetuses decreased by 21.70% compared with male fetuses (P=0.021). Compared to the EFW calculated 1 day before delivery, the accuracy of the EFW performed 4–7 days before delivery showed a significant decrease (P=0.014). The accuracy of EFW was influenced by the individual measurement accuracy of the sonographers. Maternal BMI, DM, GA, fetal presentation, and AFV did not influence the accuracy of EFW after adjustment.

Conclusion:

Model 3 was the most accurate model for the Chinese population. The BW, fetal sex, time interval, and technique of the sonographers had different influences on the accuracy of EFW.
Quality and Readability of Accessible Facial Feminization Literature
Authors: Alper David P. , Almeida Mariana N. , De Baun Heloise M. , Glahn Joshua Z. , Rivera Jean Carlo , Williams Mica C.G. , Collar John L. , Mookerjee Vikram , Persing John A. , Alperovich Michael
Published: June 2023

Background

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) consists of multiple, complex procedures. Well-informed patients have been shown to have better outcomes and expectations. However, there is limited data evaluating FFS patient-oriented material online. This study aims to evaluate the quality and readability of FFS literature online.

Methods

Facial feminization surgery–related terms were queried in Google with location, cookies, and user account information disabled. Websites were analyzed for readability using Flesch Reading Ease and Flesch-Kincaid Reading Grade Level, suitability using the suitability assessment of materials (SAM), and quality using the DISCERN scale. Unpaired t tests and χ2 tests were used to compare the websites of community-based and academic or public institutions.

Results

One hundred twenty websites met inclusion criteria (71 community-based and 49 academic). The average reading grade level was 11.68 ± 1.71. The average SAM score was 53.11 ± 11.75, denoting adequate readability. Only 16.67% of websites contained visual aids to assist in explaining procedures and benefits. Overall, 68.33% of websites' DISCERN score was rated very poor or poor, whereas only 8.33% were rated as good. The following DISCERN elements had the lowest scores across all graded websites: “clear source and date of information,” “details of additional source of support,” “refers to areas of uncertainty,” and “describes risks of each treatment.” Websites published by community-based institutions were significantly better in describing how FFS works and the benefits of each procedure. Academic sites overall were less biased (4.84 vs 4.62, P = 0.03) and provided additional sources of support (2.35 vs 1.32, P = <0.001).

Conclusions

Online FFS patient resources should be written at a more inclusive reading level and should increase the use of pictorial aids to improve patient comprehension. Facial feminization surgery patient resources were significantly above the recommended sixth grade reading level for health literature. Academic and community-based institutions should include more information about procedural risks and limitations in surgical outcomes to ensure a broader scope of understanding.