bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneity of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) and PSMA-ligand uptake detection combining autoradiography and postoperative pathology in primary prostate cancer
Authors: Wang Hui , Remke Marianne , Horn Thomas , Schwamborn Kristina , Chen Yiyao , Steiger Katja , Weichert Wilko , Wester Hans-Jürgen , Schottelius Margret , Weber Wolfgang A. , Eiber Matthias
Published: November 2023

Background

Targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) has been highly successful for imaging and treatment of prostate cancer. However, heterogeneity in immunohistochemistry indicates limitations in the effect of imaging and radionuclide therapy of multifocal disease. 99mTc-PSMA-I&S is a γ-emitting probe, which can be used for intraoperative lesion detection and postsurgical autoradiography (ARG). We aimed to study its intraprostatic distribution and compared it with (immuno)-histopathology.

Results

Seventeen patients who underwent RGS between 11/2018 and 01/2020 with a total of 4660 grids were included in the preliminary analysis. Marked intratumor and intra-patient heterogeneity of PSMA expression was detected, and PSMA negative foci were observed in all samples (100%). Heterogeneous intra-patient PSMA-ligand uptake was observed, and no significant correlation was present between the degree of heterogeneity of PSMA expression and PSMA-ligand uptake. Higher PSMA-ligand uptake was observed in GS ≥ 8 than GS < 8 (p < 0.001). The appearance of Gleason Pattern (GP) 4 was strongly associated with higher uptake (coefficient: 0.43, p < 0.001), while GP 5 also affected the uptake (coefficient: 0.07, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

PSMA expression and PSMA-ligand uptake show marked heterogeneity. Prostate carcinoma with GP 4 showed significantly higher uptake compared with non-neoplastic prostate tissue. Our analyses extend the scope of applications of radiolabeled PSMA-ligands to ARG for identifying high-grade disease and using its signal as a noninvasive biomarker in prostate cancer.
Trends in Israeli community-based opioid prescribing, 2010–2020, an observational study of the country’s largest HMO
Authors: Dressler Reuven L. , Kaliner Ehud , Cohen Matan J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Prescription opioids are widely used for pain control and palliative care but have been associated with a variety of untoward effects, including opioid use disorder, addiction, and increased mortality. Patterns of opioid use in Israel are to date poorly described.

Methods

Using a community-based database, the authors performed a retrospective analysis of filled opioid prescriptions of Israeli HMO members 18 years of age or older during the years of 2010–2020 that filled at least one opioid prescription. Morphine milligram equivalent (MME) calculations were stratified by presence or absence of oncology diagnosis and by specific opioid medication.

Results

The percentage of HMO members who filled at least one opioid prescription increased every year from 2.1% in 2010 to 4.2% in 2020. There was an increase in the MME per prescription (44.2%), daily MME per capita (142.1%) and MME per prescription-filling patient (39%) from 2010 to 2020. Increased prescription opioid use is driven by a small group of non-oncological patients, which is less than 1.5% of opioid-prescribed patients and 0.1% of the adult population, primarily owing to fentanyl use.

Conclusion

Supervision and control of opioid prescriptions in Israel should be a focused effort directed at patients prescribed uniquely high dosages rather than a population-wide strategy that focuses on all patients prescribed opioids. This should be complemented by improved physician training and access to non-opioid therapies, as well as improved data collection and analysis.
Associations between nature exposure, screen use, and parent–child relations: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Torjinski Marina , Horwood Sharon
Published: November 2023

Background

Today’s youth are growing up in an evolving digital world, and concerns about the potential detrimental effects of excessive screen use on biopsychosocial outcomes in childhood are mounting. Parents worry about the impacts of screen-use on their children’s wellbeing but at the same time frequently fail to meet their own ideal screen time limits regarding their children’s screen use. There is an opportunity to shift research focus away from inflexible and often unrealistic childhood screen time guidelines towards exploration of positive parenting strategies that may have multiple beneficial and significant effects on children’s screen-related outcomes. An emerging body of literature suggests that screen time and nature exposure act on psychosocial outcomes in contrasting ways. There is evidence to suggest that exposure to natural environments may counteract some of the potential negative psychosocial effects of excessive screen use; however, this relationship is poorly understood. The overarching aim of this scoping review is to source, categorise, and synthesise existing research exploring the associations between nature exposure, screen use, and parenting across childhood.

Methods

This mixed-methods systematic scoping review will be conducted following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework with methodological enhancements from Levac and associates and recommendations from the Joanna Briggs Institute’s methodological guidance for conducting scoping reviews. Five electronic databases will be searched from August 2022 onwards. Two reviewers will independently screen titles, abstracts, and full-text articles. Peer reviewed articles related to the constructs of nature exposure, screen use, and parent/child relations will be considered in the context of early to late childhood. Study characteristics will be collated using a data charting tool collaboratively developed by the research team. Evidence will be presented using tabular and textual form and described using qualitative thematic analysis.

Discussion

This review will gather information about how key definitions are conceptualised, defined, and measured across the literature and map existing trends and areas for future research. It is intended that this review will inform and guide future research direction, recommendations, and programs aimed at supporting parents to navigate the challenges of parenting in a digital age.

OSF registration

https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/TFZDV
Mode of HIV exposure and excess burden of neurocognitive impairment in people living with HIV: a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled studies
Authors: Ayu Astri Parawita , Rahadi Arie , Kristian Kevin , Sani Tara Puspitarini , Putra Aditya , Halim Glenardi , Mangkuliguna Ghea , Kusumoputri Theresia Puspoarum , Turana Yuda
Published: November 2023

Background

Chronic HIV infection significantly elevates the risk of brain pathology, precipitating neurocognitive impairment (NCI) among people living with HIV (PLWH). The diagnosis of NCI in PLWH hinges on evaluating deviations in neuropsychological test performance in comparison to HIV-seronegative normative controls. However, the adverse psychosocial conditions experienced by PLWH can also result in reduced test performance, potentially confounding the accurate NCI attribution to HIV infection. This planned systematic review aims to investigate potential disparities in the excess burden of NCI among PLWH in two groups of studies: (a) studies enrolling controls who shared a similar mode of HIV exposure (MoHE) with the PLWH participants (MoHE-adjusted) and (b) studies enrolling normative controls or controls without undefined MoHE (MoHE-naive).

Methods

We will systematically search five electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, ProQuest) and registries (OpenGrey, ClinicalTrials.gov, ISRCTN registry). Studies reporting NCI in PLWH and HIV-seronegative controls with cross-sectional or baseline measurements, published from January 2007 to September 2023, will be included. To be classified as MoHE adjusted, a study must evidence ≥ 90% enrolment of both PLWH and their seronegative controls from the same MoHE group (e.g. men who have sex with men, people who use drugs or alcohol). Reports of test performance scores will be transformed into NCI proportions using simulated score distributions, applying a global deficit score cut-off ≥ 0.5 to estimate NCI cases.

The Newcastle–Ottawa scale adapted to the purpose of the review will be used to appraise study quality. Random-effects meta-analysis will be used to pool the excess burden of NCI in prevalence ratios and test the difference between MoHE-adjusted and MoHE-naive studies. Furthermore, subgroup analyses and meta-regression will be undertaken across categorical study-level covariates (e.g. study locations, NCI diagnostic criteria) and continuous/ordinal covariates (nadir CD4, number of neurocognitive domains assessed), respectively.

Discussion

This systematic review will contribute towards a greater appreciation of the unique psychosocial conditions of PLWH that are missing from the current case definition of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder. The findings will additionally highlight possible disparities in the distribution of the excess burden of NCI by MoHE groups, thereby guiding the prioritization of mitigation efforts.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42021271358
NuWa: off-state tolerant backscattering system with uncontrolled excitation traffics
Authors: Yang Zhiyi , He Xin , Lin Guiping , Jiang Weiwei , Zhu Yujun , Sun Jianfeng , Xu Yong , Yang Panlong
Published: November 2023

Backscatter communication relies on passive reflections of the existing radio frequency (RF) signals, making it suitable for low-power and low-complexity communication in IoT applications. However, the performance of existing systems severely degrades in real-life environments, due to irregular “on” and “off” states of ambient signals like WiFi, which are not controllable. In this paper, we propose a joint coding and framing scheme for the backscattering physical layer to fight against the off-state in the excitation signal. We first design transmission schemes including both the Reed-Solomon (RS) codes and the frame structure, to correct the burst error caused by the off states. In order to implement the codes at the resource-constrained tag, we design a look-up table for the encoding process. We prototype our system NuWa that could efficiently backscatter with uncontrolled traffics generated randomly. We demonstrate that NuWa could achieve a 1 Mbps transmission throughput when the tag is over 1 m away from the receiver in high traffic load and 150 kbps in low traffic load. Finally, we evaluate the throughput with respect to the distance change between the tag and the receiver, and 950 kbps is achieved at a distance of $$6\,m$$

6

m

.
The Spanish language version of the TAPS tool: protocol for a validation and implementation study in primary care
Authors: Gryczynski Jan , Sanchez Katherine , Carswell Steven B. , Schwartz Robert P.
Published: November 2023

Background

The TAPS Tool (“Tobacco, Alcohol, Prescription drug, and illicit Substance use”) is a screening and brief assessment for detecting unhealthy substance use in healthcare settings that was developed by the National Institute on Drug Abuse Clinical Trials Network and validated in a multisite study. Our team developed a Spanish language version of the TAPS Tool that supports provider- and self-administration screening using a mobile/web-based platform, the TAPS Electronic Spanish Platform (TAPS-ESP).

Methods

This article describes the protocol and rationale for a study to validate the TAPS-ESP in a sample of Spanish-speaking primary care patients recruited from a network of community-based clinics in Texas (target N = 1,000). The TAPS-ESP will be validated against established substance use disorder diagnostic measures, alternative screening tools, and substance use biomarkers. The study will subsequently examine barriers and facilitators to screening with the TAPS-ESP from a provider workflow perspective using qualitative interviews with providers.

Discussion

Validating a Spanish language version of the TAPS Tool could expand access to evidence-based, linguistically accurate, and culturally relevant substance use screening and brief assessment for an underserved health disparity population.

Trial registration: The study was registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05476588, 07/22/2022.
Review of surgical treatment of iatrogenic iliofemoral artery injury in the pediatric population after catheterization
Authors: Lozano-Corona Rodrigo , Torres-Machorro Adriana , Ortiz-Beitz Reinhard , Reyes-Monroy Aristeo , García-Lugo Ignacio , Ruben-Castillo Christopher , Guerrero-Galindo Luis Angel
Published: November 2023

Trauma is the leading cause of death in the pediatric population. Although vascular trauma has an incidence of 6% in civilian population, iatrogenic injuries are the leading cause, and the most frequent injured vessel is the iliofemoral sector. However, little information is available and there are no guidelines about its treatment. Therefore, this review aimed to describe the information available concerning pediatric iatrogenic arterial trauma, focusing on the iliofemoral segment and present 3 cases. We described 11 articles with 171 patients, of whom 61% underwent surgery to treat iatrogenic trauma. Mean age was 3.28 years (standard deviation of 3.5 years), and 54% were female. Most iliofemoral injuries occurred after arterial catheterization for hemodynamic monitorization and therapeutic or diagnostic cardiac catheterization (due to congenital heart diseases, including septal defects, tetralogy of Fallot, aortic coarctation, and patent ductus arteriosus). For acute complications, arterial thrombosis was the leading injury, followed by pseudoaneurysm, hematoma, dissection, transection, avulsion, eversion, and combined lesions.
Can women’s empowerment in livestock farming improve household food security? Empirical evidence from rural households in Malawi
Authors: Mataka Tamala , Kaitibie Simeon , Ratna Nazmun N.
Published: November 2023

Background

Over the years the Government of Malawi has launched several initiatives to improve food security in the country. Despite these efforts there have been limited improvements in food security, raising the spectre of persistently elevated levels of food insecurity. Efforts to reduce food insecurity may involve women who play a central role in the production, processing, preparation and control of vital livestock products for food security. However, women’s ability to achieve food security is limited by their lack of access to productive resources and limited ability to participate in decision-making. The main objective of this study is to estimate the impact of women’s empowerment in household livestock production and marketing decisions on household food security.

Methods

This study uses data from a proportionate random sample of 400 households in two major livestock producing Extension Planning Areas in the Nsanje district to estimate the relationship between women’s empowerment and household food security in rural households in Malawi.

Results

Tobit regression results show that the empowerment of women in the livestock sector, especially in decisions pertaining to agricultural production, nutrition, and income control, improves household food security. In addition, factors such as household income, household size, and the main occupation of the household head play a significant role in ensuring household food security.

Conclusion

The results suggest that nutrition-sensitive programmes should target women’s agency in livestock production and nutrition decisions for improved food security among rural households in Malawi. As part of their food security strategy, Government of Malawi could develop programs to sensitize households on the importance of enhancing women’s agency in agriculture and nutrition decision-making, while also providing targeted income-support for women.
Pivoting injury prevention efforts during a pandemic: results of an international survey
Authors: Charyk Stewart Tanya , Unni Purnima , Hanson Holly Renee , Gilliland Jason , Clark Andrew , Fraser Douglas D.
Published: November 2023

Background

The COVID-19 a pandemic changed the world. Public health directives to socially distance with stay-at-home orders altered injury risk factor exposure, resulting injury patterns and conducting injury prevention (IP). The objective of this study was to determine the impact the COVID-19 pandemic on injury and IP at North American trauma centers (TC).

Results

Sixty-two responses were received from pediatric (44%), adult (11%), and combined (31%) TC, from 22 American states, 5 Canadian provinces and Australia. The majority (91%) of programs targeted age groups from birth to 15 years old. Nearly one-third reported IP to be less of an institutional priority with funding redistributed in 15% of centers [median (IQR) − 25% (− 43, 1)], and resultant staffing changes at 38% of centers. A decrease in IP efforts was reported at 64% of TC. Overall, the majority of respondents reviewed injury data, with the top reported increased mechanisms mainly intentional: Firearm-related (75%), assaults (72%), and abuse (71%). Leading increased unintentional injuries were injuries occurring in the home such as falls (70%), followed by ATV (62%), and cycling (57%). Sites pivoted by presenting (74%) or participating (73%) in IP education virtually, social media posts (61%) and the addition of technology (29%). Top barriers were redeployment of partners (45%) and staff (31%), as well as lack of technology (40%) in the target population. Facilitators were technology at TC (74%), support of trauma program (63%), and having IP funding maintained (55%).

Conclusions

Nearly two-thirds of TC decreased IP efforts during the pandemic due to staffing and funding reductions. The leading reported increased injuries were intentional, indicating that violence prevention is needed, along with support for mental health. While TC successfully pivoted by using technology, access issues in the target population was a barrier resulting in health inequities.
Assessment HOMA as a predictor for new onset diabetes mellitus and diabetic complications in non-diabetic adults: a KoGES prospective cohort study
Authors: Lee Jibeom , Kim Moon-hyun , Jang Ji-Yong , Oh Chang-Myung
Published: November 2023

Background

Homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) is a biomarker for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the role of HOMA-IR in the non-diabetic is unclear. This study aimed to determine whether IR measured HOMA-IR value is associated with new onset diabetes as well as vascular disease and can be used as an early predictor for diabetes and vascular diseases in non-diabetic participants.

Methods

From a prospective community-based cohort of 10,030 individuals, 4314 individuals younger than 65 years and without diabetes were enrolled and divided into three groups by baseline HOMA-IR tertiles: low (n = 1454), moderate (n = 1414), and high (n = 1446). The primary outcome was new onset T2DM. Secondary outcomes were chronic kidney disease (CKD) and a composite of coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke as macrovascular events.

Results

The mean age was 51 years. The prevalence of hypertension and cholesterol and HbA1c were higher in the high HOMA-IR group. New onset T2DM (5.8%) and CKD (12.2%) incidence in the high HOMA-IR group was higher than that in the others. The prevalence of macrovascular events did not differ among groups. High-HOMA-IR was an independent risk factor for new onset T2DM (odds ratio 1.86 [1.17–2.96]; p = 0.01) and CKD (1.49 [1.12–1.98]; p = 0.01).

Conclusions

High HOMA-IR was an early predictor of new onset T2DM and CKD, regardless of HbA1c in non-diabetic individuals. Further research on the specific cut off value will be needed.
Usefulness of the skin-wrinkling test in a patient with probable small fiber neuropathy and Gaucher disease
Authors: Ducci Renata Dal-Prá , Ribas Michelle Zonkowski , Martinazzo Enzo Oku , Fustes Otto Jesus Hernandez , Lorenzoni Paulo José , Kay Claudia Suemi Kamoi , Scola Rosana Hermínia
Published: November 2023

Background

Gaucher disease (GD) is an autosomal recessive disease characterized by an inborn metabolic error. Although pain attributed to skeletal involvement is one of the most frequent symptoms of this condition, some patients may have neuropathic pain. Therefore, recent studies have analyzed the occurrence of peripheral polyneuropathy in patients with GD. In these studies, in cases when normal neurological examination and electroneuromyography were found, small fiber neuropathy (SFN) was investigated, mainly using skin biopsy and quantitative sensory testing.

Case presentation

We demonstrate the usefulness of the skin-wrinkling test performed by immersion in water for the evaluation of SFN in a 27-year-old woman with GD who presented with neuropathic pain. After excluding other causes, the main hypothesis was an association between SFN and GD, which was recently described in the literature and possibly underdiagnosed.

Conclusions

Although only skin biopsy can confirm the diagnosis of SFN, the skin-wrinkling test can be useful for the complimentary assessment of pain in patients with GD, owing to its easy application and wide availability.
Symptomatic treatment options for Huntington’s disease (guidelines of the German Neurological Society)
Authors: Saft Carsten , Burgunder Jean-Marc , Dose Matthias , Jung Hans Heinrich , Katzenschlager Regina , Priller Josef , Nguyen Huu Phuc , Reetz Kathrin , Reilmann Ralf , Seppi Klaus , Landwehrmeyer Georg Bernhard
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Ameliorating symptoms and signs of Huntington’s disease (HD) is essential to care but can be challenging and hard to achieve. The pharmacological treatment of motor signs (e.g. chorea) may favorably or unfavorably impact other facets of the disease phenotype (such as mood and cognition). Similarly, pharmacotherapy for behavioral issues may modify the motor phenotype. Sometimes synergistic effects can be achieved. In patients undergoing pragmatic polypharmacological therapy, emerging complaints may stem from the employed medications' side effects, a possibility that needs to be considered. It is recommended to clearly and precisely delineate the targeted signs and symptoms (e.g., chorea, myoclonus, bradykinesia, Parkinsonism, or dystonia). Evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is limited.

Summary or definition of the topic

Therefore, the guidelines prepared for the German Neurological Society (DGN) for German-speaking countries intentionally extend beyond evidence from RCTs and aim to synthesize evidence from RCTs and recommendations of experienced clinicians.

Recommendations

First-line treatment for chorea is critically discussed, and a preference in prescription practice for using tiapride instead of tetrabenazine is noted. In severe chorea, combining two antidopaminergic drugs with a postsynaptic (e.g., tiapride) and presynaptic mode of action (e.g., tetrabenazine) is discussed as a potentially helpful strategy. Sedative side effects of both classes of compounds can be used to improve sleep if the highest dosage of the day is given at night. Risperidone, in some cases, may ameliorate irritability but also chorea and sleep disorders. Olanzapine can be helpful in the treatment of weight loss and chorea, and quetiapine as a mood stabilizer with an antidepressant effect.

Conclusions

Since most HD patients simultaneously suffer from distinct motor signs and distinct psychiatric/behavioral symptoms, treatment should be individually adapted.
Post-right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduit: short- and intermediate-term outcomes: a single-center study
Authors: Ali Yasmin Abdelrazek , Roushdy Alaa , Hegab Mohammed Abdullah , Mohammed Amr Mansour
Published: November 2023

Background

Surgery for congenital heart disease has progressed by leaps and bounds in the last few decades, but the right ventricular outflow tract continues to pose a challenge to the congenital heart surgeon.

Objectives

We aim to describe the outcomes of patients with CHD who had surgical placement of right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduits with a focus on the risk factors for redo-surgery.

Methods

We performed a retrospective single-center clinical data review of patients who had RVOT surgery using RV-to-PA conduits

Results

Thirty-three patients (54.5% males) were included. The mean age at first conduit placement was 3.57 ± 3.18 years, mean conduit size conduit was 14.45 ± 3.85 mm. 51.5% of patients received Contegra tubes. On a mean follow-up of 2.07 ± 2.36 years, 45.5% of patients underwent RV-to-PA conduits redo replacement after 5.67 ± 3.25 years from the first surgery, 2 patients underwent re-intervention for the second time, 7 patients had transcatheter interventions on RVOT or branch PAs. The main mode of conduit failure was stenosis. The median survival without the need for surgical reintervention was 2.5 years for the non-contegra subgroup versus 3 years for the contegra subgroup (P = 0.59). we predicted that 100% of the study group would require redo surgery for conduit replacement within the first 11 years post-initial surgery. For every year of age increase at follow-up, the hazard ratio for redo surgery increases by a factor of 1.47. For every year of age increase at the time of first operation, the hazard ratio for redo surgery decreases by a factor of 0.7.

Conclusions

The use of conduits to treat the RV to PA discontinuity is a cornerstone in treating congenital heart diseases. Nevertheless, conduit failure and replacement are inevitable. In our experience the higher the age at the first conduit, the longer the re-intervention-free survival period.
Pulmonary mucormycosis presenting as a tumor-like mass in an uncontrolled diabetic patient: a rare case report
Authors: Ziaei Moghaddam Alireza , Basiri Reza , Mohamadian Roshan Nema
Published: November 2023

Mucormycosis is a life-threatening infection caused by fungi in the Mucorales species. It mainly affects diabetes patients and other immune-compromised hosts. The infection can involve multiple organ systems, with the lungs being the second most common site. We report a case of a 40-year-old female who had a mass that resembled a tumor, a very rare manifestation of the disease which we were able to diagnose, treat, and now report as it is essential to initiate treatment as early as possible due to its aggressive behavior and high mortality rate.
Hypothalamic and Pituitary Dysfunction After Extensive Brain Surgery: There Is Thirst for More Knowledge
Authors: Galbiati Francesca , Stamatiades George A , Bi Wenya L , Abreu Ana Paula
Published: November 2023

Craniopharyngiomas are tumors originating from the infundibular stalk, extending to the parasellar and suprasellar region, thereby conferring multiple risks of this region. In particular, hypothalamic and pituitary damage related to its natural history as well as treatment effects of craniopharyngiomas substantially affect life expectancy and quality of life. Here, we describe an adult patient presenting with polyuria, memory, and visual field impairment secondary to concurrent craniopharyngioma and intraventricular glioma. He was treated with surgical resection with postoperative course notable for hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction, including central hypothyroidism, central adrenal insufficiency, arginine vasopressin deficiency (AVP-D, formerly diabetes insipidus) with loss of sense of thirst, and hypothalamic hypothermia. The adipsia, combined with memory dysfunction, challenged the management of constant fluctuations in his sodium (129-168 mEq/L), with ultimate treatment through vasopressin repletion, fixed fluid intake, strict urine output monitoring, and close counseling of the patient and his caregiver. This case exemplifies the complexity of the endocrine care of patients with craniopharyngiomas and highlights the need for step-wise algorithms in the treatment of hypothalamic deficiencies such as adipsia.
Association of Low Vitamin D and Intact Parathyroid Hormone (iPTH) in Nepalese Population: When Does iPTH Exactly Rise?
Authors: Baidya Sujata , Tuladhar Eans Tara , Sharma Vijay Kumar , Dubey Raju Kumar , Raut Mithileshwer , Bhattarai Aseem , Parajuli Naresh , Niraula Apeksha
Published: November 2023

Vitamin D deficiency is a global public health concern that provokes bone demineralization and weakening. In response to the decreased vitamin D level, calcium stores wear out. The homeostatic effect of compensatory hyperparathyroidism in vitamin D deficiency incites variable discrepancies in different populations. This study intends to decipher the transition point of PTH in relation to levels of vitamin D in a Nepalese population. A cross-sectional study was carried out at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Nepal. Serum calcium, phosphorus, intact PTH, and 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels were assayed in an Abbott ARCHITECT Integrated System. A correlation plot of PTH and vitamin D was analyzed in Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22.0. Using a locally weighted scatter plot smoothing method, the relation between these variables was presented graphically. Among 281 individuals, 30.2% had vitamin D levels below 20 ng/mL. There was an archetypical transition in the PTH levels in concert with the decrease in vitamin D level marked by 2 inflection points (ie, 18.5 and 42.0 ng/mL). Our findings suggest that to augment overall health and avert weakness due to vitamin D deficiency, the levels of vitamin D should be maintained above 42.0 ng/mL in our population.
Efficacy of Lycium barbarum (Goji berry) mouthwash for managing periodontitis: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Sanghavi Amee , Shettigar Laasya , Chopra Aditi , Shah Ashmeet , Lobo Richard , Shenoy Padmaja A , Gadag ShivaPrasada , Nayak Usha Y , Shravya S Mangalore , Kamath Shobha Ullas , Nayak Prajna P
Published: November 2023

Background Removal of the microbial deposits (plaque and calculus) by performing effective scaling and root planing (SRP) is the fundamental step for managing periodontal disease (gingivitis and periodontitis). Various adjuncts in the form of mouthwash, gels, and toothpaste are also being used as adjuncts to SRP for managing periodontitis. Recently, Lycium barbarum (L. barbarum), commonly known as goji berry or wolfberry, has gained popularity for managing chronic inflammatory and infectious diseases. However, its efficacy in managing periodontitis has never been explored. Hence the present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of goji berry mouthwash compared to chlorhexidine mouthwash for managing periodontitis. Methods 60 adult participants were divided randomly using computer-generated random sequences into two groups (case group: L. barbarum mouthwash (Males: 16; Female: 14); control group: 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash (Males: 14; Females: 16)). The changes in the gingival index (Gi), plaque index (Pi), bleeding on probing (BOP), clinical attachment loss (CAL), probing pocket depth (PPD), microbial load, and antioxidant levels (protein thiol) in saliva were noted at the baseline, at 15 days and one month. Results A significant reduction in the mean PPD, Pi, and Gi was seen from baseline to one month in both the control (P-value=0.006, 0.027, and 0.036 respectively) and test groups (P-value=0.035, 0.000, and 0.000 respectively). CAL was reduced significantly only in the control group. However, the antioxidant levels (protein thiol) in saliva were significantly increased only in the test group. Conclusion Goji berry mouthwash along with SRP reduced the Gi, Pi, BOP, and PPD in patients with periodontitis. However, no statistically significant difference was noted between the use of goji berry and chlorhexidine mouthwash. Goji berry mouthwash was more effective than chlorhexidine in increasing the antioxidant levels in saliva.
Sociodemographic characteristics of community eye screening participants: protocol for cross-sectional equity analyses in Botswana, India, Kenya, and Nepal
Authors: Allen Luke N , Nkomazana Oathokwa , Kumar Mishra Sailesh , Ratshaa Bakgaki , Ho-Foster Ari , Rono Hillary , Roshan Abhiskek , Macleod David , Kim Min , Patricia Marques Ana , Bolster Nigel M , Burton Matthew J , Gichangi Michael , Karanja Sarah , Bastawrous Andrew
Published: November 2023

Background Attendance rates for eye clinics are low across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and exhibit marked sociodemographic inequalities. We aimed to quantify the association between a range of sociodemographic domains and attendance rates from vision screening in programmes launching in Botswana, India, Kenya and Nepal. Methods We performed a literature review of international guidance on sociodemographic data collection. Once we had identified 13 core candidate domains (age, gender, place of residence, language, ethnicity/tribe/caste, religion, marital status, parent/guardian status, place of birth, education, occupation, income, wealth) we held workshops with researchers, academics, programme implementers, and programme designers in each country to tailor the domains and response options to the national context, basing our survey development on the USAID Demographic and Health Survey model questionnaire and the RAAB7 eye health survey methodology. The draft surveys were reviewed by health economists and piloted with laypeople before being finalised, translated, and back-translated for use in Botswana, Kenya, India, and Nepal. These surveys will be used to assess the distribution of eye disease among different sociodemographic groups, and to track attendance rates between groups in four major eye screening programmes. We gather data from 3,850 people in each country and use logistic regression to identify the groups that experience the worst access to community-based eye care services in each setting. We will use a secure, password protected android-based app to gather sociodemographic information. These data will be stored using state-of-the art security measures, complying with each country’s data management legislation and UK law. Discussion This low-risk, embedded, pragmatic, observational data collection will enable eye screening programme managers to accurately identify which sociodemographic groups are facing the highest systematic barriers to accessing care at any point in time. This information will be used to inform the development of service improvements to improve equity.
A modified decontamination and storage method for sputum from patients with tuberculosis
Authors: Le Quang Nguyen , Dang Anh Thu Do , Pham Tien Trieu Le , Hong Hanh Nguyen , Huu Lan Nguyen , Thi Minh Ha Dang , Thwaites Guy , Thuy Thuong Thuong Nguyen , Walker Timothy M.
Published: November 2023

Background: Collecting and storing large number of sputum samples with a view to culturing these in the future requires an efficient initial handling method. We devised a modified sputum digestion and decontamination method that maximised storage capacity and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) recovery from culture while minimising laboratory workload and risk of contamination.

Methods: We collected smear microscopy positive sputum samples from patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). The sputum samples were split and processed using both the standard N-Acetyl-L-cysteine and sodium hydroxide (NALC-NaOH) method and our modified method before freezing and later culturing in BD BACTEC 960 Mycobacterium Growth Indicator Tubes (MGIT) system. We assessed the Time to Positivity (TPP) and Growth Unit (GU) data.

Results: We selected 22 sputum samples to compare two digestion and decontamination methods. The samples that underwent the modified method had longer TTP (p < 0.05) but similar GU in comparison to standard method. Overall, 1/22 samples failed to grow in MGIT after being processed by the modified method. We then applied the modified method to 348 sputum samples with Rifampicin resistance detected by GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay, which were frozen for between 1-25 months. The overall MGIT positive, negative, and contamination rate was 90.5%, 7.8%, and 1.7%, respectively. There was no significant difference in MGIT result when samples were grouped by duration of storage or positive smear grade.

Conclusions: Our modified method yielded acceptable M.tb recovery rate and low contamination risk while allowing us to collect and store thousands of sputum samples over a long period of time for future tests.
Coding definitions of participant religious, non-religious and spiritual beliefs in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents & Children (ALSPAC).
Authors: Iles-Caven Yasmin , Gregory Steven , Matthews Sarah
Published: November 2023

Mainstream religious beliefs and behaviours have been shown to have positive effects on health and well-being, but there has been increasing secularisation in the West over time. With concurrent increases in those stating they have no religion (the ‘nones’) there are increasing numbers now describing themselves as humanist, ‘spiritual but not religious’ or who have sought alternative forms of belief. Others have formed their own beliefs using elements of different belief systems. This trend is reflected in ALSPAC data with larger proportions considering themselves as ‘nones’, agnostic or atheist, and about 3% of parent participants consistently stating they had ‘other’ beliefs. The main aim of this paper is to describe the coding of the Christian denominations, world religions, non-mainstream beliefs (NMB) and non-religious groups derived from the text-based data collected from the original mother and partner cohorts (G0). This spans a period of ~28 years from pregnancy onwards. We also describe the coding of text-based responses from their offspring (G1) collected at ages 27+ and 29+. The creation of this coded data will enable researchers to compare between the Christian denominations and/or other belief groups taken from two generations alongside the rich resource of physical and mental health, behavioural and social data that exists within ALSPAC.
The genome sequence of the Beautiful Hook-tip, Laspeyria flexula (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Blaxter Mark L ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Laspeyria flexula (the Beautiful Hook-tip; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Erebidae). The genome sequence is 450.9 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.58 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 13,281 protein coding genes.
Znaczenie „dyplomacji demokracji” dla współczesnego Tajwanu
Authors: Trojnar Ewa
Published: November 2023

THE IMPORTANCE OF “DEMOCRATIC DIPLOMACY” FOR CONTEMPORARY TAIWANContemporary Taiwan is one of the leading democratic countries in Asia. The authorities in Taipei, under the leadership of President Tsai Ing-wen and the ruling Democratic Progressive Party have actively conveyed this message to the international community through their foreign policy since 2016. The objective of this paper is to examine the concept of “democracy diplomacy” in Taiwan, analyzing both scholarly discourse and observing Taiwan’s foreign policy. This strategic approach greatly bolsters Taiwan’s position among other nations that uphold democratic values, especially in the face of rivalries between major powers.
Somaliland i Tajwan – współpraca państw nieuznawanych w cieniu rozgrywki geopolitycznej mocarstw w Rogu Afryki
Authors: Kłosowicz Robert
Published: November 2023

SOMALILAND AND TAIWAN – THE COOPERATION OF UNRECOGNIZED COUNTRIES IN THE SHADOW OF THE GEOPOLITICAL GAME OF SUPERPOWERS IN THE HORN OF AFRICA
Separated by thousands of kilometers and very different cultures, histories, and economies, Taiwan and Somaliland appear to have little in common. Like Taiwan, Somaliland was created in the aftermath of a civil war. The consequences of those conflicts continue to shape the political status of both countries. Since the declaration of independence from Somalia in 1991, Hargeisa, like Taipei, has been trying to secure its existence, because both states cannot count on international recognition, and their independence is contested by the states from which they seceded. Despite being forced to exist on the periphery of the international community, both de facto states still try to be active participants in global affairs. Relations between unrecognized states are also an element of the game between the main players in this region, the US and China. Washington, concerned about Beijing’s political and economic expansion in the Horn of Africa, is trying to limit it, and one of the elements of this policy is indirect support for the strategically located Somaliland through its ally from Taipei.
Diplomacia cultural. Análisis de la cultura como instrumento de la política exterior
Authors: Jaramillo Jassir Mauricio
Published: November 2023

No es nueva la diplomacia cultural como una noción de la política exterior y de las relaciones internacionales; de hecho, en el marco de la globalización, esta ha inspirado numerosas reflexiones que abarcan desde lo teórico y lo práctico hasta lo gubernamental u oficial, cuando los Estados o instituciones internacionales la han definido según sus criterios. De ahí que la diplomacia cultural merezca una definición y un marco de aplicación que aclare sus orígenes, establezca cuál debe ser el horizonte teórico-conceptual y defina sus alcances y limitaciones. Por ello, la reflexión de este libro parte de la necesidad de abordar la diplomacia cultural a partir de, al menos, tres ángulos: a) cultura y sistema internacional, b) teoría de las relaciones internacionales y cultura, y c) viabilidad de la diplomacia cultural en Colombia, que sugieren una lectura reposada, rigurosa y desapasionada del tema, y que permitan al lector hacerse una idea no solo de qué es, sino de cuál es concretamente su alcance en la política exterior colombiana y los desafíos que representa.
Primer for Experimental Methods in Organization Theory
Authors: Levine Sheen S. , Schilke Oliver , Kacperczyk Olenka , Zucker Lynne G.
Published: November 2023

Experiments have long played a crucial role in various scientific disciplines and have been gaining ground in organization theory, where they add unique value by establishing causality and uncovering theoretical mechanisms. This essay provides an overview of the merits and procedures of the experimental methodology, with an emphasis on its application to organization theory. Drawing on the historical roots of experiments and their impact across science, we argue the method holds immense potential for furthering organization theory. We highlight key advantages of experimental methods, including high internal and construct validity, vividness in communicating findings, the capacity to examine complex and understudied phenomena, and the identification of microfoundations and theoretical mechanisms. We alleviate some concerns about external validity and offer guidance for designing and conducting sound, reproducible experimental research. Ultimately, we contend that the current experimental turn holds the potential to reorient organization theory.

History: This paper has been accepted for the Organization Science Special Issue on Experiments in Organizational Theory.

Funding: This work was supported by the Otto Moensted Foundation, which granted the Otto Moensted Visiting Professorship to S. S. Levine, and a National Science Foundation CAREER Award from the Directorate for Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences [Grant 1943688] to O. Schilke.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.2023.18093 .
Relato de experiência sobre o uso de metodologias ativas de ensino-aprendizagem para a formação docente contemporânea.
Authors: Chagas Pablo Ferreira das , Veronez Luciana Chain , Barbieri Marisa Ramos , Scrideli Carlos Alberto , Valera Elvis Terci , Tone Luiz Gonzaga
Published: November 2023

A extensão universitária tem ampliado seu campo de atuação junto ao Ensino e à Pesquisa nas instituições públicas e privadas. Com a finalidade de avaliar os pressupostos e metodologias na tríade ensino-pesquisa-extensão, esse relato de experiência teve como objetivo refletir e analisar nossa didática como extensionistas na relação professor-aluno, frente a um projeto de extensão voltado ao ensino do câncer para alunos da rede pública de ensino. Este projeto foi executado através do programa educacional Casa da Ciência da Fundação Hemocentro de Ribeirão Preto, o Pequeno Cientista, em parceria com a Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo. A construção da prática pedagógica e a aproximação do aluno-professor foram as principais abordagens relatadas. Ressaltamos a importância da extensão universitária como alicerce fundamental na formação docente para o ensino de Ciências em perspectiva aos processos de formação e atuação do professorado.
“Abelhas: vilãs ou heroínas?”: uma experiência agroecológica
Authors: De Oliveira Larissa Lopes , Vargas Luiza Carolina Pereira , Arantes Clara da Silveira , Fernandes Rodrigo Silva , Oliveira Leonardo de Carvalho
Published: November 2023

As abelhas são conhecidas por seu papel essencial em processos ecológicos como polinização, mas também são temidas pelo seu ferrão. A oficina “Abelhas: vilãs ou heroínas?” retratou a importância das abelhas no meio ambiente e sua ligação com a agroecologia. O trabalho fez parte do evento “Colônia de Férias - Futuros Cientistas da FFP/UERJ” na Faculdade de Formação de Professores (FFP) da Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), São Gonçalo - RJ. As atividades tiveram como objetivo facilitar o processo de ensino-aprendizagem de forma lúdica para as crianças revelando o papel de heroína das abelhas, tendo como resultado ações de reflexão e conscientização em relação a preservação dos polinizadores e do meio ambiente para a reserva da biodiversidade.
CENAS VIVIDAS NO PET – SAÚDE: ENTRE TRABALHO DE INTERAÇÃO, PANDEMIA E APRENDIZAGENS
Authors: Batista Cassia Beatriz , Artur Letícia Nascimento , Carvalho Karla de Paula , Santos Lorena Eduarda Mendes Santos Mendes , Resende Nathália Julie Soares , De Miranda Tatiana Teixeira
Published: November 2023

Três cenas foram construídas no ano de 2021 a partir das narrativas elaboradas pelas integrantes do PET-Saúde Interprofissionalidade. Estas cenas retratam dois anos de um projeto de extensão universitária pautado na relação escola-serviço, sendo, ainda, acometido por um contexto de pandemia. O artigo aponta potências no trabalho colaborativo e estratégias necessárias para manter a reorientação da formação, visando a melhoria das práticas de saúde no Sistema Único de Saúde integrado às universidades.