bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of COER‐Verapamil on Circadian Pattern of Forearm Vascular Resistance and Blood Pressure
Authors: Nguyen B. Nhi T. , Parker Robert B. , Noujedehi Mohammad , Sullivan Jay M. , Johnson Julie A.
Published: September 2022

Controlled‐onset extended‐release verapamil (COER‐V) is designed so drug concentrations rise sharply in the early morning to coincide with the peak incidence of cardiovascular events. The primary objective of this study was to compare the diurnal pattern of forearm vascular resistance (FVR) between hypertensives and normotensives and to determine the effect of COER‐V on FVR's diurnal pattern. The authors also studied the effects of COER‐V on 24‐hour ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) and the early morning blood pressure rise. Baseline 24‐hour ABP was recorded, and FVR was determined by venous occlusion plethysmography at 7 a.m., 2 p.m., and 9 p.m. in 23 untreated hypertensives; FVR was also determined in 10 matched, normotensive controls. Plethysmography studies and 24‐hour ABP were repeated and S‐ and R‐verapamil concentrations determined over 24 hours by HPLC following ≥4 weeks of therapy. The diurnal pattern of FVR differed between hypertensives and normotensives, with normotensives exhibiting an FVR decline between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m., while FVR rose at 9 p.m. in hypertensives. COER‐V appeared to minimize the diurnal variation in FVR in hypertensives, although there were no significant differences at any single time point (baseline 7 a.m.: 58 +24; 2 p.m.: 48 + 13; and 9 p.m.: 55 + 19 vs. COER‐V at 7 a.m.: 51 +23; 2 p.m.: 51 +17; and 9 p.m.: 54 ± 17 mmHg/ml/min/100 g). COER‐V effectively reduced ABP throughout the 24‐hour period (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in the slopes of the early morning rise in BP or change in morning trough‐to‐peak BP at baseline and on the drug. The data suggest that hypertension alters the normal diurnal pattern in FVR and that COER‐V minimizes the diurnal variation in this parameter. In addition, the authors conclude that COER‐V is an effective antihypertensive that lowers BP throughout a 24‐hour period, but it does not blunt the early morning rate of BP rise despite peak S‐verapamil concentrations in the early morning.
A Study of the Pharmacokinetics of Azithromycin and Nelfinavir When Coadministered in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Amsden Guy W. , Nafziger Anne N. , Foulds George , Cabelus Laura J.
Published: September 2022

A two‐way, open‐label, crossover study in 12 subjects was undertaken to study the potential for azithromycin to alter the pharmacokinetics of nelfinavir and/or its active metabolite, M8. A secondary objective was to characterize any potential interaction that nelfinavir may have with azithromycin. During one dosing arm, subjects received a single 1200 mg oral dose of azithromycin. During the other, subjects received 11 days of nelfinavir 750 mg q8h with a single 1200 mg oral dose of azithromycin given concurrently with the Day 9 morning nelfinavir dose. Serum samples were collected after each azithromycin dose for 168 hours and after the Day 8 and 9 morning nelfinavir doses for 8 hours to characterize azithromycin, nelfinavir, and M8 pharmacokinetic parameters during both control and test periods. Both dosing regimens were well tolerated, with only mild to moderate GI side effects being the most frequently reported. Azithromycin was found to cause a statistically, though not clinically, significant decrease in nelfinavir and M8 exposures. In contrast, nelfinavir caused azithromycin Cmax and exposure (AUC) values to increase by > 100%. Inhibition of p‐glycoprotein by nelfinavir may be responsible for this significant interaction. This increase in azithromycin exposure has the potential to increase clinical antibacterial efficacy without significantly increasing gastrointestinal side effects, though the impact on other systemic sites needs to be studied.
The Plasma Concentration and LDL‐C Relationship in Patients Receiving Ezetimibe
Authors: Ezzet F. , Wexler D. , Statkevich P. , Kosoglou T. , Patrick J. , Lipka L. , Mellars L. , Veltri E. , Batra V.
Published: September 2022

Ezetimibe is a novel selective inhibitor of intestinal cholesterol absorption, which has been shown to significantly decrease low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C). In this article, the relationship between plasma ezetimibe concentrations and lowering of LDL‐C is determined using Emax and regression models. Data from two phase II doubleblind placebo‐controlled studies (n = 232 and 177) were used in which daily doses of ezetimibe ranging from 0.25 to 10 mg were administered for 12 weeks. Ezetimibe concentrations correlated significantly with percentage change in LDL‐C from baseline (%LDL‐C). Reductions in %LDL‐C of 10%, 15%, and 20% were achieved with concentrations in the ranges 0 to 2, 2 to 15, and ® 15 ng/ml, respectively, as compared with placebo. To achieve ® 15% reduction in LDL‐C, patients need to maintain trough concentrations ® 15 ng/ml, taking plasma concentrations as a surrogate for concentrations at the enterocyte. Based on the doses administered, the 10 mg dose had the highest likelihood of sustaining such concentrations, confirming that a daily 10 mg dose of ezetimibe is an optimal therapeutic dose in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia.
An Overview of the Pharmacokinetics of Cilomilast (Ariflo®), a New, Orally Active Phosphodiesterase 4 Inhibitor, in Healthy Young and Elderly Volunteers
Authors: Zussman Barry D. , Benincosa Lisa J. , Webber Dawn M. , Clark David J. , Cowley Hugh , Kelly John , Murdoch Robed D. , Upward James , Wyld Peter , Port Andreas , Fuder Hermann
Published: September 2022

The oral pharmacokinetics of cilomilast (Ariflo®) were investtigated in five separate studies in healthy volunteers. Cilomilast was rapidly absorbed, and pharmacokinetics were dose proportional after single and repeat dosing. The elimination half‐life was 7 to 8 hours; accordingly steady state was reached on the 3rd day of dosing. The degree of accumulation following repeat twice‐daily dosing was predictable from the data following a single dose. Although systemic exposure (AUC) was, on average, 21% higher in elderly (65–84 years) compared with young subjects, values for Cmax and t1/2 were similar, and no difference in tolerability was noted. Single and repeat doses of cilomilast up to and including 15 mg (dosed before or taken between meals) were well tolerated. Dosing with food reduced the rate of absorption without affecting total bioavailability. Hence, tolerability was optimal in the fed state; repeat doses up to and including 30 mg twice daily after meals were well tolerated following dose titration.
Tegaserod Coadministration Does Not Alter the Pharmacokinetics of Theophylline in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Zhou Honghui , Khalilieh Suzanne , Svendsen Katenka , Pommier Françoise , Osborne Stuart , Appel‐Dingemanse Silke , Lasseter Kenneth , McLeod James F.
Published: September 2022

Tegaserod (HTF 919), a selective 5‐HT4 receptor partial agonist, is in development for the treatment of functional gastrointestinal motility disorders. Tegaserod has been found to inhibit cytochrome P‐450 (CYP) 1A2, for which theophylline is a prototype substrate. This study was designed to assess the effect of tegaserod on the single‐dose pharmacokinetic and safety profile of theophylline. Eighteen subjects were enrolled in a randomized, open‐label, two‐period crossover study. After an overnight fast, subjects were randomized to receive one of two treatments: (1) a single dose of controlled‐release formulation of theophylline (Theo‐Dur®, 600 mg) on day 1 or (2) a single dose of tegaserod (6 mg) on day 1, concomitant administration of tegaserod (6 mg) and theophylline (600 mg) on the morning of day 2, followed by an additional dose of tegaserod (6 mg) 12 hours later. Four to 10 days later, the subjects received the alternative treatment regimen. The pharmacokinetic parameters of theophylline, including AUC, Cmax' and t1/2Λz' were similar for both treatment regimens, although the tmax of theophylline was statistically different between the treatments. Except for a decrease in partial metabolic formation clearance from theophylline to 1‐methyluric acid, which is unlikely to be clinically relevant, there were no statistically significant differences in renal clearance of theophylline and partial metabolic formation clearances following the combined treatment compared with theophylline alone. The results of the current study indicate that no dose adjustment is required when drugs metabolized via CYP1A2 are coadministered with tegaserod.
Opiate Antagonists and Eating Behavior in Humans: A Review
Authors: de Zwaan Martina , Mitchell James E.
Published: September 2022

Animal studies have demonstrated a robust role for the endogenous opioid system in the control of food intake. In humans, selective opioid antagonists such as naloxone, naltrexone, and nalmefene have been shown in some studies to reduce total food intake by up to 30% and to alter food preferences in short‐term experimental trials in normal‐weight subjects, as well as in obese and bulimic patients. The value of naloxone and naltrexone in the Jong‐term treatment of eating disordered patients, however, must be considered very limited. The published treatment studies do not justify the routine use of naloxone and naltrexone in patients with Prader‐Willi syndrome, obesity, bulimia nervosa, or anorexia nervosa because of their unprovable risk/benefit ratios, although further work, particularly focused on some of the newer antagonists, should be undertaken.
Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Study of the Safety and Efficacy of Vitamin B Complex in the Treatment of Nocturnal Leg Cramps in Elderly Patients with Hypertension
Authors: Chan Paul , Huang Tsuei‐Yuen , Chen Yi‐Jen , Huang Wen‐Pin , Liu Yu‐Chi
Published: September 2022

Nocturnal leg cramps is a common and troublesome problem in elderly individuals, and their etiology is unknown. Treatment with quinine is a common practice, but the effectiveness of the drug is doubtful and adverse drug effects are common. This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of vitamin B complex capsules (fursulthiamine 50 mg, hydroxocobalamin 250 μg, pyridoxal phosphate 30 mg, and riboflavin 5 mg) in 28 elderly patients with hypertension who had severe nocturnal leg cramps that disturbed their sleep. Self‐reported ratings of leg cramp frequency, duration, and intensity were used to evaluate severity of nocturnal leg cramps. Both the patients taking vitamin B capsules (n = 14) and those taking placebo (n = 14) received medications three times daily, and were examined regularly at 2‐week intervals for 3 months. After 3 months, 86% of the patients taking vitamin B had prominent remission of leg cramps, whereas those taking placebo had no significant difference from baseline. Treatment with vitamin B complex significantly reduced the frequency, intensity, and duration of nocturnal leg cramps. Because quinine is not without potential for side effects, and vitamin B complex is a relatively safe and effective alternative, clinicians should reconsider the treatment of choice for nocturnal leg cramps.
Recent Advances in Our Understanding of the Use of Theophylline in the Treatment of Asthma
Authors: Page C. P.
Published: September 2022

The use of theophylline for the treatment of asthma for 45 of the past 50 years has been for its ability to dilate bronchi. The problem has been that at the most effective bronchodilating dose, toxicity was too close for comfort. In the past 5 years, there has been resurgence in theophylline use at lower doses because of some well‐documented anti‐inflammatory and steroid sparing effects.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Consequences of Metabolism‐Based Drug Interactions with Alprazolam, Midazolam, and Triazolam
Authors: Yuan Rae , Flockhart David A. , Balian John D.
Published: September 2022

This review was conducted to identify the current data on drug interactions with alprazolam, midazolam, and triazolam to guide practitioners in the use of these drugs. The Medline electronic database from 1966 through 1998 was used to identify clinical studies of the pharmacokinetic effect of drugs on these three benzodiazepines. Of a total of 491 literature reports identified, 59 prospective studies met our selection criteria. The pharmacokinetic parameters of AUC, Cmax, t1/2, and tmax were evaluated for changes following an interaction. To allow comparison between studies, changes in the parameters were normalized relative to the control values. Pharmacodynamic effects and measures, when reported in the original studies as statistically significant, were classified as a strong interaction, and when the interaction was present but not statistically significant, they were classified as mild in this review. As a result, clinically significant drug interactions were noted for all three benzodiazepines, although it is clear that statistically significant pharmacokinetic changes do not always translate into clinically significant pharmacodynamic consequences. All three benzodiazepines were susceptible to drug interactions, but oral dosing of midazolam and triazolam resulted in greater alterations in the pharamcokinetic parameters than alprazolam due to their larger presystemic extraction. Ketoconazole and itraconazole were found to be the most potent metabolic inhibitors that prolonged the duration of or intensified the magnitude of the dynamic response produced by the three benzodiazepines. Rifampin, carbamazepine, and phenytoin were noted to be potent metabolic inducers, and their treatments result in loss of benzodiazepine therapeutic efficacy. In conclusion, potent metabolic inhibitors and inducers can either significantly prolong or diminish the dynamic effects of benzodiazepines via their influence on the pharmacokinetics of benzodiazepines.
Could dietary creatine intake modulate overweight elderly's selective attention and inhibitory function?
Authors: Machado Marco , Masterson Travis D , Oliveira Edimar F
Published: September 2022

Aims: There is evidence that both aging and increased adiposity may impact creatine levels in the brain, and brain creatine levels are important for cognition. The aim of this study was to assess correlation between dietary creatine intake and cognition in in elderly women with overweight. Methods: Twenty seven overweight women over 60 years of age who were part of a larger study participated in an Eriksen Flanker Task (EFT) to asssess cognitive performance. Additionally, diet was assessed over 5 days via daily diary nutritional recalls and the estimate of the daily amount of creatine was calculated. Results: In the EFT when incongruente stimulus were presented there was a significant diferences between those with low and high intake of creatine (−35.3 ± 5.84; p < 0.001). Similarly, reaction time to answer incongruent stimulus (r = −0.383; p = 0.004) and the percent of correct answers (r = 0.743; p < 0.001) showed weak to strong correlations with self-reported daily creatine intake. Conclusions: In conclusion, our results suggest that in elderly women with overweight that dietary intake of creatine may influence cognitive ability. Clinical Implications: Our findings support the idea that intake of dietary creatine may be an important factor for cognition in older adults.
The role of goal interdependence in couples’ relationship satisfaction: A meta-analysis
Authors: Toma Ana M , Rusu Petruța P , Podina Ioana R
Published: September 2022

In the context of an increasingly egalitarian society, in which all genders are encouraged to be vocal about their goals and take equal growth opportunities, goal interdependence in couples has been repeatedly associated with relationship satisfaction. The aim of this meta-analysis was to provide evidence for the association between goal interdependence and relationship satisfaction in couples. We performed a random-effects analysis for the 32 reports and 49 independent samples that investigated three types of goal interdependence (goal support, goal congruence, and goal conflict) in association with relationship satisfaction. We found significant medium effect sizes between goal interdependence in general (r = .23) and relationship satisfaction, as well as between each type of goal interdependence and relationship satisfaction. The strongest effect size emerged for the association between goal congruence and relationship satisfaction (r = .43), followed by the association between goal support and relationship satisfaction (r = .28) and by the negative association between goal conflict and relationship satisfaction (r = −.29). From a theoretical standpoint, these results provide support for a key claim from the Transactive Goal Dynamics Theory that goal coordination between partners impacts relationship functioning. From a practical standpoint, they emphasize the need to consider goal interdependence in couples’ therapy, particularly in the current sociocultural context.
Strangers On This Road We Are On: A Literature Review of Pooling in On-Demand Mobility Services
Authors: Hansen Todd , Sener Ipek Nese
Published: September 2022

Ridepooling service options introduced by transportation network companies (TNCs) and microtransit companies provide opportunities to increase shared-ride trips in vehicles, thereby improving congestion and environmental factors. This paper reviews the existing literature available on ridepooling and related services, specifically focusing on pooling options available from on-demand transportation companies. The paper summarizes the existing knowledge on the use of pooled-ride services, factors in travel mode service options for customers, available policy and planning strategies to incentivize sharing vehicles, and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on shared-ride travel. Overall, research shows that ridepooling options are more likely to be considered by public transit users who have lower household incomes, while ridesourcing users of upper-class backgrounds are less likely to consider moving to a shared-ride service. Travel time and trip cost are the most important factors for travelers determining whether to use a ridesplitting or microtransit service rather than a ride-alone ridesourced trip. Existing policy and planning tools targeting pooled travel or TNCs can be expanded on and specified for on-demand ridepooling services, such as offering better incentives to use shared vehicles and increased access to curb areas or travel lanes, but the most effective strategies will include increasing the user costs for parking or riding alone.
Replicable Methodology for Transportation Agencies to Identify Priority Areas for First and Last Mile Solutions at the Regional Level
Authors: O’Sullivan Katie , Shah Deep Suryakant , Bilton Peter , McGuinness Eugene
Published: September 2022

First and last mile (FLM) solutions that enhance connections to fixed-route transit offer multifaceted benefits, yet relatively few transportation agencies have developed comprehensive regional strategies or plans to support implementation. There is a lack of guidance and replicable methodologies that transportation agencies can use to conduct regional spatial analysis or screening for priority areas to invest in FLM solutions at a regional scale. This paper presents a replicable, step-by-step methodology and accompanying visual aids for metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), transportation management associations (TMAs), and transit agencies to identify priority areas for investment in FLM solutions. This methodology was developed through two related studies conducted in 2021 by the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA), the MPO for the 13-county northern New Jersey region. This methodology can be replicated using readily available data from the U.S. Census Bureau and transit agencies, along with simple analytic processes in geographic information systems (GIS) software including buffers, spatial difference, intersection, and filtering. Agencies can tailor this methodology based on the types of fixed-route transit facilities under consideration, the distances that FLM solutions may cover, and whether agencies are seeking to prioritize employment clusters, residential clusters, and/or transit hubs for future investment. The paper concludes with a discussion of the various applications and limitations of regional analyses and planning for FLM solutions.
The welfare state and support for environmental action in Europe
Authors: Parth Anne-Marie , Vlandas Tim
Published: September 2022

How do welfare state policies affect the political support for environmental action of economically vulnerable social groups? Two competing hypotheses can be delineated. On the one hand, a synergy logic would imply that welfare state generosity is associated with higher support for environmental action among economically vulnerable groups due to the insecurity reducing effects of the welfare state. On the other hand, a crowding-out logic would suggest that welfare state generosity is associated with lower support for other policy priorities like environmental action. We test these two hypotheses using 2019 Eurobarometer survey data and country-level indicators of welfare state generosity in 22 European countries. We find that the working class and the elderly are particularly opposed to individual and national environmental action and that the welfare state plays a complex moderating role. Consistent with a synergy logic, welfare state generosity increases pro-environmental behaviour among the working class, but its association with more positive attitudes towards national environmental policies is less strong. Consistent with a crowding-out logic, the elderly appear less likely to behave in environmentally friendly ways if retirement benefits are high. To explore the mechanisms behind this association, we show that the working class who struggle to pay their bills are most opposed to environmental action. Overall, economic insecurities are key obstacles for support of environmental actions and the effects of the welfare state depend both on which social group is concerned and whether individual behaviour versus policy preferences are considered.
A comprehensive gene expression profile analysis of prostate cancer cells resistant to paclitaxel and the potent target to reverse resistance
Authors: Che Ping , Jiang Shihao , Zhang Weiyang , Zhu Huixuan , Hu Daorong , Wang Delin
Published: September 2022

Background: Paclitaxel resistance is the major clinical obstacle in the chemotherapy of prostate cancer (PCa), but the resistant mechanism is less investigated.

Purpose: To establish two paclitaxel-resistant PCa cells, provide a comprehensive gene expression profile analysis of resistant cells and the potential target to reverse resistance.

Methods: Two Paclitaxel-resistant PCa cells (PC3/PR, LNcap/PR) were established by gradually increasing drug concentration. MTT and transwell assays were performed to detect drug sensitivity, cell proliferation and migration abilities. RNA-Sequencing (RNA-seq) and bioinformatic analyses were performed to identify abnormally expressed genes (AEGs) in resistant cells, and annotate the biological functions of AEGs. The role of the candidate AEG, TLR-4, on the resistant phenotypes was further investigated.

Results: The resistance index of resistant cells was 2-3, and they showed a slower proliferation and increased migration ability. 4741 AEGs were screened out (Log2fold change absolute: log2FC(abs)  > 1) in the resistant cells, and they were enriched in 2'-5'-oligoadenylate synthetase activity and chemical carcinogenesis. A number of AEGs, CCND2, IGFBP3, FOS, SHH, ZEB2, and members of FGF, FGFR and WNT families were also identified to be involved in cancer- and resistant phenotype-related processes. Finally, TLR-4 was validated significantly increased in resistant cells, and knockdown of TLR-4 increased drug-sensitivity, inhibited the proliferation and migration abilities.

Conclusions: The study provided a comprehensive gene expression profile of paclitaxel-resistant PCa cells, and TLR-4 could be a potential target to reverse paclitaxel resistance.
Building a Media Literate Society: Pathways to Improve Media and Information Literacy Education in Pakistan
Authors: Jamil Sadia , Iqbal Azhar , Ittefaq Muhammad , Kamboh Shafiq Ahmad
Published: September 2022

This mixed-method study investigates the state of media and information literacy education in Pakistan by underlining the availability of relevant courses and trained teaching and research faculty at both public and private universities. Using United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) framework, this study explores the perception of faculty members across six key areas of general education and teacher development to improve the quality of media and information literacy in the country. These six key areas include (a) policy and vision, (b) curriculum and assessment, (c) pedagogy, (d) media and information, (e) organization and administration, and (f) teachers’ professional development.
Socio-Demographic, lifestyle and eye-related factors associated with quality of life Among people with glaucoma in Serbia
Authors: Sencanic Ivan , Gazibara Tatjana , Jaksic Vesna , Grgurevic Anita , Mrakovic Tina , Dotlic Jelena
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine socio-demographic, lifestyle and ophthalmological factors associated with poorer Vision Related Quality of Life (VRQoL) in people with glaucoma.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 306 consecutive patients with glaucoma who presented for regular check-ups at the referral center in Belgrade (Serbia) from August 2015 to September 2016. The diagnosis of glaucoma was based on the glaucomatous disc cupping and reproducible visual field impairment on one or both eyes. Quality of life was examined using the validated Glaucoma Quality of Life-15 (GQL-15) and the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire 25 (NEI VFQ 25).

Results

A series of adjusted linear regression models showed that glaucoma patients with higher educational attainment, who were employed and still driving had better VRQoL. Worse visual acuity and visual field defect, being in later glaucoma stages, having lower intraocular pressure, having two laser interventions as well as having pseudo-exfoliative glaucoma was associated with worse VRQoL. Intake of fewer medications and having had no trabeculectomies on better eye as well as taking less drops per day on worse eye were associated with better VRQoL.

Conclusions

Several socio-demographic, lifestyle and ocular factors can impact VRQoL in glaucoma patients. Identifying people who are at risk of having worse VRQoL could allow for earlier interventions, such as changes in therapy, undergoing surgery, use of mobility aids etc.
Should ultrasound evaluation for catheter-related thrombosis always be required before PICC removal?
Authors: Pinelli Fulvio , Muzzi Mirko , Pittiruti Mauro
Published: September 2022

Despite several effective preventive strategies peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs)—as much as centrally inserted central catheters and femorally inserted central catheters—are inevitably associated with the potential development of catheter-related thrombosis. This complication may be symptomatic or—more often—asymptomatic. Even if remote, the chance that PICC removal may mobilize an asymptomatic thrombus and cause pulmonary embolism, is theoretically possible. On the other hand, the diffuse adoption of an ultrasound scan aiming at detecting an asymptomatic catheter-related thrombosis may be logistically difficult and expensive. No clear evidence-based recommendations exist on this issue and whether perform an ultrasound scan before PICC removal in asymptomatic patients remains a matter of debate. For these reasons, the authors propose few common sense recommendations that may help clinicians in weighing the clinical advantages of the exam (optimal safety for the patient) versus its practical disadvantages (logistic cost).
The Pandemic Experience for People with Depressive Symptoms: Substance Use, Finances, Access to Treatment, and Trusted Sources of Information
Authors: Sanchez Katherine , da Graca Briget , Hall Lauren R , Bennett Monica M , Powers Mark B , Warren Ann Marie
Published: September 2022

Background:

Mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic are well recognized, but little is known about the pandemic experience among people experiencing mental health symptoms.

Methods:

In June 2020, a national sample of 5023 U.S. adults, including 785 scoring ⩾10 on the PHQ-8 for symptoms of depression, completed survey measures related to their pandemic experience.

Results:

After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic experience for which participants scoring PHQ-8 ⩾ 10 had the greatest increase in odds of reporting moderate/severe negative impacts included: mental health treatment access (odds ratio [OR], 95% confidence interval [CI] = 8.81, 6.70-11.57), family stress/discord (OR, 95% CI = 5.21, 4.24-6.42), food access (OR, 95% CI = 3.76, 2.97-4.77), and income/employment (OR, 95% CI = 3.19, 2.66-3.83). They were also significantly more likely to report increased use of prescription painkillers (OR, 95% CI = 8.46, 4.50-15.92) and other drugs (OR, 95% CI = 4.43, 2.85-6.89), and less trust in healthcare authorities/providers, family/friends, and employers, and more trust in websites/blogs/social media, for COVID-19 information ( P-values < .05).

Conclusions:

The interplay among depressive symptoms, substance use, lack of trust in healthcare authorities, and negative impact of the pandemic on family, finances, and access to mental health treatment and food indicate the need for robust social and behavioral health safety nets to buffer communities from the shadow epidemics of depression, family violence, and overdose deaths during public health disasters.
Non-financial Incentives for Retention of Health Extension Workers in Somali Region of Ethiopia: A Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Oladeji Olusola , Brown Andrew , Titus Maritza , Muniz Maria , Collins Alex , Muriuki Janet , Oladeji Bibilola , Ayalew Yejimmawork , Robins Ann
Published: September 2022

The study evaluated non-financial incentive packages to retain health extension workers in the Somali Region of Ethiopia using the Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) technique, conducted among 66 health extension workers in 3 woredas (districts). The study used a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods in sequential order. Mixed logic regression modeling was used to determine the effect of different job attributes on the retention of the health extension workers, while Preference Impact Measure (PIM) was used to determine the combinations of preferred incentive packages to retain the health extension workers in their current workplace. Opportunity for continued education ranked first, 1.009 (0.655, 1.36), P = .000, followed by career advancement/opportunity for promotion, 0.321 (0.107, 0.534), P = .003, then supportive management 0.234 (−0.395, −0.073), P = .004. in terms of impact on retention. The most preferred incentive package for retention using the PIM model was opportunities for continued education after 3 years and always good availability of and access to amenities (running water, electricity, internet), which predicted a 77% retention rate if implemented. The identified proposed retention incentive packages will help in developing evidence-based incentive policies and strategies for the future retention of health extension workers in this region.
Changes in Behavior After Vaccination and Opinions Toward Mask Wearing: Thoracic Oncology Patient–Reported Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Bolt Toki , Tufman Amanda , Sellmer Laura , Kahnert Kathrin , Mertsch Pontus , Kovács Julia , Kauffmann-Guerrero Diego , Munker Dieter , Manapov Farkhad , Schneider Christian , Behr Juergen , Walter Julia
Published: September 2022

Background:

The COVID-19 vaccines, face masks, and social distancing are effective interventions to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infections. In this study, we aimed to determine lung cancer patients’ attitudes toward vaccination, changes in behavior after vaccination, and willingness to continue mask wearing after the pandemic.

Methods:

We sent out questionnaires to 220 thoracic oncology patients treated at our lung cancer center in May 2021. The questionnaire focused on patients’ vaccination status, self-reported experiences surrounding vaccination, and assessed changes in behaviors before and after vaccination as well as opinions toward mask wearing after the pandemic. Results are presented as absolute and relative frequencies and means with standard deviation and compared using t test, paired t test, and analysis of variance test as well as chi2 test, and Fisher exact text.

Results:

About 91.0% of patients reported having received at least 1 vaccination. About 73.3% of patients reported having at least 1 reaction to the vaccination. The most common reactions were pain at the injection site, fatigue, and headache. After vaccination, patients increased contact with family and friends, use of public transport, and grocery shopping. Overall, the level of willingness to wear masks beyond the end of the pandemic differed according to vaccination status.

Conclusions:

Acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccination among thoracic oncology patients in Germany was high. Overall, patients with thoracic malignancies tolerated the COVID-19 vaccination well. Rate of adverse reaction was not higher compared with the general population. After the vaccination, patients increased social contacts and usage of public transport. These changes suggest positive psychological effects on quality of life. While reducing social distancing can increase the risk of infection, our results indicate that an extension of mask mandates after the pandemic would likely be accepted by a majority of thoracic oncology patients, suggesting that our cohort was still aware and in support of other measure of protection.
Geography of placemories: deciphering spatialised memories
Authors: Hubner Elena , Dirksmeier Peter
Published: September 2022

This paper develops the new concept of the geography of placemories as a critical approach for deciphering spatialised memories in cultural geography. In referring to Alfred North Whitehead’s philosophy of organism and cultural materialism in line with Raymond Williams, the paper reflects on processual conceptions of feeling, society, memory and place. First, reviewing existing research on memory and place elucidates that cultural geography takes spatialised memories as fixed objects. Its analysis leads to statements about society. Second, to avoid this fallacy, the paper shifts the analytical basis for the cultural geographical conception of memorial sites from place to feelings and experiences by developing a new view on spatialised memory. The resulting processual problematisation of the ontology of memories, as well as its relevance for the present and spatialisations, is called the placemoric approach. The analysis of contested remembering processes with regard to the prerogative of interpretation of half-timbered houses in descriptions of Nuremberg’s old town in North Bavaria, Germany demonstrates the capabilities of the placemoric approach. In doing so, the paper shows how spatialised memories are the socially constructed result of permanently changing feelings.
Connectome the Dots for Presurgical Predictions
Authors: Lillis Kyle P.
Published: September 2022

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Synergistic Positive Feedback Mechanisms Underlying Seizure Initiation
Authors: Trevelyan Andrew J. , Graham Robert T. , Parrish R. Ryley , Codadu Neela K.
Published: September 2022

Investigations into seizure initiation, in recent years, have focused almost entirely upon alterations of interneuronal function, chloride homeostasis, and extracellular potassium levels. In contrast, little attention has been directed toward a possible role of dendritic plateau potentials in the actual ictogenic transition, despite a substantial literature dating back 40 years regarding its importance generally in epilepsy. Here, we argue that an increase in dendritic excitability, coordinated across the population of pyramidal cells, is a key stage in ictogenesis.
SARS-CoV-2 in Brazil and Psychosocial Repercussions on Men’s Health: Health Literacy Is Important
Authors: de Sousa Anderson Reis , Moreira Wanderson Carneiro , da Silva Santana Thiago , Brito Teixeira Jules Ramon , Meira Araújo Isabella Félix , Almeida Éric Santos , de Santana Carvalho Evanilda Souza , Camargo Emerson Lucas Silva , Tiago da Silva Souza Antônio , da Silva Hallyson Leno Lucas , Ferreira de Holanda Acássio , Batista Paloma Carolina Teixeira , de Sousa Álvaro Francisco Lopes , Mendes Isabel Amélia Costa , de Oliveira Márcia Aparecida Ferreira , da Cruz Sequeira Carlos Alberto , Pereira Álvaro
Published: September 2022

This study aimed at analyzing the psychosocial repercussions of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic on the health of men living in Brazil. For this, we carried out a socio-historical and qualitative study, with the participation of 200 men who answered an online questionnaire. The data collected were processed in the NVIVO12® software, structured by the Collective Subject Discourse method, and analyzed from the epidemic disease theoretical framework proposed by Charles Rosenberg. Our results showed that the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic brought about repercussions of different dimensions that compromised the health of men living in Brazil. The repercussions evidenced were behavioral changes and emergence of new habits due to the pandemic; uncomfortable family situations; impaired affective and sexual relationships; harms in marital relationships; and insecurity and psychological distress. It is important to implement strategies that maximize men’s health literacy, promoting better communication in terms of health, and search for help and suitable information about health/mental health.
Prediction of stamping parameters for imitation π-shaped lithium battery shells by building variable weight and threshold pelican-BP neural networks
Authors: Gao Yuanyuan , Liu Na , Liu Peng , Wang Chengnuo
Published: September 2022

With the rapid development of artificial neural networks, more sophisticated network models and more accurate prediction results are provided for solving engineering applications. In this paper, the weights and thresholds of the feedforward neural network model were optimized using the pelican algorithm, and the optimal solution was output by simulating the pelican predation scheme and assigned as the new parameters of the neural network. A POA-BP network model was proposed, and its better prediction was demonstrated by comparing the fitting and prediction performance with 13 neural network models such as random forest, support vector machine, and wavelet basis by evaluating metrics such as RMSE, MSE, and MAE. To further improve the prediction accuracy, different hidden layer topologies of POA-BP were compared, and the Monte Carlo method was used to obtain seven design variables for the lithium battery shell size parameters, and parameter regression prediction was performed for the structure after the variable density topology optimization used the isotropic material interpolation model (SIMP) with the moving asymptote method by invoking the MinGW-w64 compiler, and the 1-3-1 neural network was selected model to predict each dimension of the battery shell structure, the final shell weight reduction ratio was 18.12% and the first-order intrinsic frequency was increased by 14.56%.
Technical research on improving engine thermal efficiency
Authors: Mu Hongyu , Wang Yinyan , Yang Chuanlei , Teng Hong , Zhao Xingtian , Lu Hongquan , Wang Dechun , Hao Shiyang , Zhang Xiaolong , Jin Yan
Published: September 2022

To aid in addressing global climate change and reduce automobile carbon emissions, the thermal efficiency of engines must be improved. By altering the structural design of an engine body (including the cylinder blocks and cylinder heads), a rapid combustion model with a compression ratio of 16 and a maximum tumble ratio of 3.94 was developed that improved the combustion speed. Through synergistic matching of cooled exhaust gas recirculation with lean burn technology, when the exhaust gas recirculation rate was 20% and the air-fuel ratio was 20, the effect of reducing NOx emission and knocking reached the optimum level. When an electronic water pump and dual thermostat technology were used, the temperature change at the combustion chamber wall of each cylinder was <3%, and when the engine ran at speeds of up to 2400 r/min and torque of up to 60 Nm, the coolant temperature could reach 105°C, thereby reducing both heat dissipation and friction losses. The maximum thermal efficiency of the new DHE16GDI engine developed based on the DAM16N engine model increased by approximately 4.4%, and the contents of the major pollutants NOx and CO and the total hydrocarbon content were reduced by approximately 43.1%, 34.8% and 8.3%, respectively.
Incidence and risk factors of surgical site infections after coronary artery bypass grafting surgery in Oman
Authors: AlRiyami Fatma M , AL-Rawajfah Omar M , Al Sabei Sulaiman , Al Sabti Hilal A
Published: September 2022

Background

There is limited information about the incidence and risk factors of surgical site infections (SSIs) after coronary artery bypass (CABG) surgeries in the Omani population.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence and describe possible risk factors of SSIs after CABG surgeries in Oman.

Method

A retrospective nested case–control design was used to screen 596 patients who underwent CABG surgeries over 2 years (2016–2017) in two tertiary hospitals in Oman. The CDC definition for SSIs was used to identify the infected cases.

Results

Prevalence rate of SSIs was 17.4% and 17.5% in 2016 and 2017, respectively. The most isolated microorganism was Gram-positive bacteria (45.2%). Risk factors of SSIs include female gender (OR = 3.2, p < 0.001), diabetes (OR = 5.83, p < 0.001), overweight or obese (OR = 2.14, p < 0.05) and shaving technique [using razor shaving] (OR = 8.4, p < 0.001). Readmission rate for the case group was 44.2%.

Conclusion

The infection rate of SSIs after CABG surgeries in developing countries, such as Oman, is considerably high. There is an urgent need to establish SSIs preventive program at the national level. Frequent and systematic assessment of infection control practices before and after CABG surgeries is fundamental and priority strategy to prevent SSIs.
Vibrational Circular Dichroism Study of Pipitzols and of Their Inverse Epimer Constituents α- and β-Pipitzol
Authors: Burgueño-Tapia Eleuterio , Fernández Mónica Díaz , Joseph-Nathan Pedro
Published: September 2022

Inverse epimers are uncommon in nature and a lack of study of their vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) behavior seems evident. This is relevant, among other facts, since in the case of epimers, VCD has been capable of determining the absolute configuration (AC) of 1 stereogenic center in a molecule having 10 stereogenic centers. The case of pipitzol is unique since it took 80 years from its first preparation by thermal intramolecular cycloaddition of perezone (1) to know that the reaction outcome is an equimolar mixture of the 2 inverse epimers α-pipitzol (2: 3 R, 3a R, 7 R, and 8a S) and β-pipitzol (3: 3 R, 3a S, 7 S, and 8a R). Evaluation of 2 and 3 reveals that some VCD bands have an opposite phase while other bands show the same phase. The VCD spectrum of the naturally occurring equimolecular mixture was also measured and the 3 experimental spectra were contrasted with density functional theory (DFT) calculated spectra allowing individual band assignments. The comparisons were made in the 1800 to 950 and 1550 to 950 cm−1 ranges and the numerical differences are highlighted thereby showing that carbonyl bands influence such comparisons. The 2 carbonyl absorption bands of 2 and 3 show weak VCD bands and the conjugated double bond band provides an intense AC-dependent VCD band.
Pharmacovigilance: reporting requirements throughout a product’s lifecycle
Authors: Lucas Sylvia , Ailani Jessica , Smith Timothy R. , Abdrabboh Ahmad , Xue Fei , Navetta Marco S.
Published: September 2022

Comprehensive methods for evaluating safety are needed to objectively assess the full risk profile of a medication. The confidence of the prescribing provider in the safety and effectiveness of pharmaceuticals is extremely important. Pharmacovigilance is a key component of drug safety regulatory processes and is paramount for ensuring the safety profile of medications used to treat patients. All participants in the healthcare system, including healthcare providers and consumers, should understand and meaningfully engage in the pharmacovigilance process; healthcare providers should integrate pharmacovigilance into everyday practice, inviting feedback from patients. This narrative review aims to give an overview of the main topics underlying pharmacovigilance and drug safety in pharmaceutical research phase after the authorization of a drug in the United States. The US Food and Drug Administration guidance and post-approval regulatory actions are considered from an industry perspective.

Plain language summary

Regulatory processes that ensure the safety of drugs is monitored Government agencies regulate the safe use of medicinal products. By determining and enforcing pharmacovigilance, the monitoring of drugs for potential risks, they safeguard the welfare of consumers of medicines. Comprehensive, documented methods for evaluating the safety of a drug during its development and its subsequent use allow identification of any risks associated with the drug’s use throughout its lifetime. The comprehensive identification of safety issues associated with a drug is improved when all parties involved in the development and use of drugs participate in the pharmacovigilance process. For example, clinicians should regularly ask their patients if they are experiencing any issues with their treatment, and patients should be encouraged to report problems they encounter with a particular medication to their healthcare provider. This narrative review provides an overview of the main topics underlying pharmacovigilance and drug safety after approval of a drug in the United States. Guidelines and actions from the US Food and Drug Administration are considered from an industry perspective.
Unresolved tensions in green transitions: Retraining and the question of ‘how’?
Authors: Stein Jesse Adams
Published: September 2022

This commentary responds to Chantel Carr's ‘Repair and care’ through a focus on the vexed question of carbon-intensive worker retraining in the context of urgent and necessary decarbonisation and industry change in Australia. There are many parallels between my research and Carr's, particularly in relation to an understanding of the potential of existing technical skillsets in industrial working populations. Like Carr, I reflect upon my empirical research – over the past decade – with current and former industrial tradespeople. This commentary reflects on what ‘retraining’ has actually meant, in practice, for industrial workers in deindustrialising Australia. I then identify a key tension that exists in relation to the question of retraining carbon workers. Climate change mitigation calls for the dramatic and wide-ranging transformation of industries, infrastructure, jobs, and skillsets. But the fact remains, humans are complex, with diverse needs, and they are now more likely to articulate these needs on an individual level, not collectively. With this in mind – and in a background in which much academic work draws attention to complexities and institutional shortcomings – how do we balance individualised requirements with the need for dramatic, macro-level transformation?