bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuous adaptation of conversation aids for uterine fibroids treatment options in a four-year multi-center implementation project
Authors: Schubbe Danielle , Durand Marie-Anne , Forcino Rachel C. , Engel Jaclyn , Tomaino Marisa , Adams-Foster Monica , Bacon Carla , Mulligan Carrie Cahill , Venable Sateria , Foster Tina , Barr Paul J. , Anchan Raymond M. , Laughlin-Tommaso Shannon , Lindholm Anne , Seshan Maya , Gargiulo Rossella M. , Stephenson Patricia , George Karen , Ajao Mobolaji , Madden Tessa , Banks Erika , Gargiulo Antonio R. , O’Malley James , van den Muijsenbergh Maria , Aarts Johanna W. M. , Elwyn Glyn
Published: September 2024

Background

Fibroids are non-cancerous uterine growths that can cause symptoms impacting quality of life. The breadth of treatment options allows for patient-centered preference. While conversation aids are known to facilitate shared decision making, the implementation of these aids for uterine fibroids treatments is limited. We aimed to develop two end-user-acceptable uterine fibroids conversation aids for an implementation project. Our second aim was to outline the adaptations that were made to the conversation aids as implementation occurred.

Methods

We used a multi-phase user-centered participatory approach to develop a text-based and picture-enhanced conversation aid for uterine fibroids. We conducted a focus group with project stakeholders and user-testing interviews with eligible individuals with symptomatic uterine fibroids. We analyzed the results of the user-testing interviews using Morville’s Honeycomb framework. Spanish translations of the conversation aids occurred in parallel with the English iterations. We documented the continuous adaptations of the conversation aids that occurred during the project using an expanded framework for reporting adaptations and modifications to evidence-based interventions (FRAME).

Results

The first iteration of the conversation aids was developed in December 2018. Focus group participants (n = 6) appreciated the brevity of the tools and suggested changes to the bar graphs and illustrations used in the picture-enhanced version. User-testing with interview participants (n = 9) found that both conversation aids were satisfactory, with minor changes suggested. However, during implementation, significant changes were suggested by patients, other stakeholders, and participating clinicians when they reviewed the content. The most significant changes required the addition or deletion of information about treatment options as newer research was published or as novel interventions were introduced into clinical practice.

Conclusions

This multi-year project revealed the necessity of continuously adapting the uterine fibroids conversation aids so they remain acceptable in an implementation and sustainability context. Therefore, it is important to seek regular user feedback and plan for the need to undertake updates and revisions to conversation aids if they are going to be acceptable for clinical use.
Assessing inter- and intra-rater reliability of movement scores and the effects of body-shape using a custom visualisation tool: an exploratory study
Authors: Ross Gwyneth B. , Zhao Xiong , Troje Nikolaus F. , Fischer Steven L. , Graham Ryan B.
Published: September 2024

Background

The literature shows conflicting results regarding inter- and intra-rater reliability, even for the same movement screen. The purpose of this study was to assess inter- and intra-rater reliability of movement scores within and between sessions of expert assessors and the effects of body-shape on reliability during a movement screen using a custom online visualisation software.

Methods

Kinematic data from 542 athletes performing seven movement tasks were used to create animations (i.e., avatar representations) using motion and shape capture from sparse markers (MoSh). For each task, assessors viewed a total of 90 animations. Using a custom developed visualisation tool, expert assessors completed two identical sessions where they rated each animation on a scale of 1–10. The arithmetic mean of weighted Cohen’s kappa for each task and day were calculated to test reliability.

Results

Across tasks, inter-rater reliability ranged from slight to fair agreement and intra-rater reliability had slightly better reliability with slight to moderate agreement. When looking at the average kappa values, intra-rater reliability within session with and without body manipulation and between sessions were 0.45, 0.37, and 0.35, respectively.

Conclusions

Based on these results, supplementary or alternative methods should be explored and are likely required to increase scoring objectivity and reliability even within expert assessors. To help future research and practitioners, the custom visualisation software has been made available to the public.
Chromatin remodeling in tissue stem cell fate determination
Authors: Li Xinyang , Zhu Gaoxiang , Zhao Bing
Published: September 2024

Tissue stem cells (TSCs), which reside in specialized tissues, constitute the major cell sources for tissue homeostasis and regeneration, and the contribution of transcriptional or epigenetic regulation of distinct biological processes in TSCs has been discussed in the past few decades. Meanwhile, ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers use the energy from ATP hydrolysis to remodel nucleosomes, thereby affecting chromatin dynamics and the regulation of gene expression programs in each cell type. However, the role of chromatin remodelers in tissue stem cell fate determination is less well understood. In this review, we systematically discuss recent advances in epigenetic control by chromatin remodelers of hematopoietic stem cells, intestinal epithelial stem cells, neural stem cells, and skin stem cells in their fate determination and highlight the importance of their essential role in tissue homeostasis, development, and regeneration. Moreover, the exploration of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of TSCs is crucial for advancing our understanding of tissue maintenance and for the discovery of novel therapeutic targets.
Internalized weight stigma and psychological distress mediate the association of perceived weight stigma with food addiction among young adults: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Po-Ching , Latner Janet D. , Bevan Nadia , Griffiths Mark D. , Chen Jung-Sheng , Huang Chi Hsien , O’Brien Kerry S. , Lin Chung-Ying
Published: September 2024

Background

Perceived weight stigma (PWS) and internalized weight stigma (IWS) are both associated with psychological distress and food addiction (FA). Using the previously proposed ‘cyclic obesity/weight-based stigma’ (COBWEBS) model, the present study extended the framework to investigate the mediating effects of IWS and psychological distress in the association between PWS and FA among young adults. Given that individuals who are overweight/have obesity have different vulnerabilities, this population was separately analyzed alongside the total study population.

Methods

An online survey comprising the Perceived Weight Stigma Scale, Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS), Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), and modified Yale Food Addiction Scale Version 2 was completed by 601 participants (59.6% females; mean age 29.3 years [SD = 6.07]). A total of 219 participants were categorized as being overweight/having obesity.

Results

A direct correlation was found between PWS and FA (standardized coefficient [β] = 0.28, p < 0.001) among both populations, and was mediated by IWS and psychological distress (β [95% CI] = 0.03 [0.01, 0.05] for WBIS score and 0.10 [0.06, 0.14] for DASS-21 score) among the total participants, but only mediated by psychological distress among participants who were overweight/had obesity (β [95% CI] = 0.14 [0.06, 0.24]).

Conclusions

The results demonstrated novel perspectives by showing the direct association between PWS and FA and the mediating roles of IWS and psychological distress. Treatment strategies such as psychological acceptance and psychoeducation could be used to reduce weight stigma, which could have positive downstream benefits of ameliorating FA. Future research may seek to study strategies for reducing weight stigma and psychological distress, to investigate their efficacy in improving disordered eating.
Automatic modeling of the current state components of ancient buildings based on 3D deformation algorithm
Authors: Hu Chunmei , Zhu Zhiyong , Xia Guofang , Liu Xi , Ma Xinjian
Published: September 2024

Ancient buildings possess significant artistic and cultural value. The digitization of these structures is a crucial aspect of their restoration, providing foundational data for subsequent stress and health analyses. However, creating accurate models of ancient buildings is a challenging endeavor, even for experienced researchers, especially when dealing with a large number of structures. A pressing issue that needs addressing is how to quickly obtain accurate models of ancient buildings while ensuring both precision and efficiency. Currently, one of the more precise methods for reconstructing models of ancient buildings involves the use of scanned point clouds and manual reconstruction through modeling software. However, this method suffers from poor accuracy and low efficiency, making the modeling process complex and time-consuming. In this article, we will refer to the model generated from the point cloud of real components as the "current state model", and the unforced mesh model of the ancient building as the "standard model". An algorithm is proposed to construct the current state model of ancient buildings by guiding the deformation of the unforced standard model using the scanned point cloud model. First, this paper designs an automatic modeling method for ancient building components as the foundational data before deformation, addressing the issue of low modeling efficiency for ancient buildings. Second, it proposes a method for automatically calculating deformation control point pairs based on the characteristics of ancient buildings, solving the problem of manually locating control points. Finally, the proposed adaptive weight Laplacian deformation algorithm is applied to deform the standard model into the current state model.
Early intervention of 5% albumin shown superior control of vascular integrity and function compared to ringer’s lactatein hospitalized adult with grade I & II Dengue hemorrhagic fever: a multicenter randomized controlled trial in Indonesia
Authors: Bur Rika , Suwarto Suhendro , Pohan Herdiman Theodorus , Prihartono Joedo , Harahap Alida Roswita , Dewi Beti Ernawati , Sadikin Mohamad , Rachman Andhika , Yusuf Hadi
Published: September 2024

Background

Dengue virus remains a major public health problem with one of the hallmark pathologies is the vascular leakage caused by endothelial dysfunction which can lead to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) manifestation. In the status quo, no specific therapy has been discovered but rather heavily relies on judicious and frequent monitoring of intravenous fluids administration. The current guideline has discussed the roles of fluid therapy during the Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS) stage, however, administration of early fluid intervention for DHF grade I and II remains uncharted territory. In addition, the choice and timing of colloid administration remains underexplored. As one of the widely available colloids, 5% albumin has known physiological properties that potentially minimize plasma leakage. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the benefit of early intervention of 5% albumin in adults with DHF in the hope of preventing the lethal progression to DSS and further, shorten the length of stay (LOS) for patients.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, open-labeled, randomized controlled trial in Jakarta and Banten to compare the effect of early intervention with 5% albumin in adult patients with DHF compared to Ringer’s Lactate (RL). Statistical analyses were conducted using unpaired t-test and Mann-Whitney for normally and abnormally distributed data respectively.

Results

Adult patients with a diagnosis of DHF grade I and II that being hospitalized to receive the early intervention of 5% albumin had significantly lower levels of hemoconcentration 4, 12, and 24 h (p = 0.002, 0.001, 0.003, respectively), higher platelet counts 4 h (p = 0.036), higher serum albumin levels 48 h (p = 0.036), lower proteinuria 24 and 48 h post-albumin administration (p < 0.001, < 0.001, respectively), and shorter LOS (p < 0.001) when compared to the RL group.

Conclusion

Early intervention of 5% albumin showed better control on vascular integrity and function compared to ringer lactate in hospitalized adults with grade I & II DHF, thus halting the progression of DHF into DSS and other related complications which leads to faster recovery and shorter length of stay.

Trial registration

The study was registered to www.clinicaltrial.gov with trial registration number NCT04076254, and registration date October 31st 2016.
Differences in the reporting of conflicts of interest and sponsorships in systematic reviews with meta-analyses in dentistry: an examination of factors associated with their reporting
Authors: Heymann Jonas , Su Naichuan , Faggion Clovis Mariano
Published: September 2024

Background

Reporting conflicts of interest (COI) and sources of sponsorship are of paramount importance in adequately interpreting the results of systematic reviews. Some evidence suggests that there is an influence of COI and sponsorship on the study results.

The objectives of this meta-research study were twofold: (a) to assess the reporting of COI and sponsorship statements in systematic reviews published in dentistry in three sources (abstract, journal’s website and article’s full text) and (b) to assess the associations between the characteristics of the systematic reviews and reporting of COI.

Methods

We searched the PubMed database for dental systematic reviews published from database inception to June 2023. We assessed how COI and sponsorship statements were reported in the three sources. We performed a logistic regression analysis to assess the associations between the characteristics of the systematic reviews and the reporting of COI.

Results

We assessed 924 abstracts published in PubMed and on the corresponding journals´ websites. Similarly, full texts associated with the 924 abstracts were also assessed. A total of 639 (69%) and 795 (88%) studies had no statement of COI in the abstracts on PubMed and the journal’s website, respectively. In contrast, a COI statement was reported in 801 (87%) full texts. Sponsorship statements were not reported in 911 (99%) and 847 (93%) abstracts published in PubMed and a journal´s website, respectively. Nearly two-thirds of the full-text articles (N = 607) included sponsorship statements. Journal access was significantly associated with COI statement reporting in all three sources. Open-access journals have significantly higher odds to report COI in PubMed and full-texts, while have significantly lower odds to report COI in the websites, compared with subscription or hybrid journals. Abstract type was significantly associated with COI statement reporting on the journal’s website and in the full text. Review registration based on the full text and the number of authors were significantly associated with COI statement reporting in PubMed and in the full texts. Several other variables were found to be significantly associated with COI statement reporting in one of the three sources.

Conclusions

COI and sponsorship statements seem to be underreported in the abstracts and homepage of the journals, compared to the full-texts. These results were particularly more pronounced in abstracts published in both the PubMed database and the journals’ websites. Several characteristics of systematic reviews were associated with COI statement reporting.
Ethnomedicinal survey of the Paliyar tribe: a case study of Kadamalaikundu, Theni District
Authors: Divya C. , Paul Monalisa , Lata Charu , Manikandan G. , Ramasubbu R.
Published: September 2024

The Paliyar tribe of Kadamalaikundu, Theni District of Tamil Nadu, India, has been deeply associated with forestry and ethnomedicinal practices for ages. The study aimed to identify the important medicinal plant species used by this tribe for ethnomedicinal purposes in the local vicinity. Eighty-nine informants were interviewed using the ‘specimen display’ and forest walk method, semi-structured open-ended questionnaires, interviews, and personal observations. The people from the region reported ninety-three plant species having medicinal properties. The Solanaceae family was recorded as the most dominant plant family, reporting seven different species of medicinal plants, followed by six species of the Acanthaceae family. In the study, Coccinia grandis had the highest use value (2.5), followed by Withania somnifera (2). In contrast, Cardiospermum halicacabum, Gossypium hirsutum, and Ocimum tenuiflorum with use value (1) and the ICF (Informant Consensus Factor) of value 1 accounted for 15 diseases out of forty-one categorized ailments. This study confirmed that the Paliyar tribe was dependent on a large number of medicinal plants for their primary healthcare and veterinary well-being, which require immediate conservation owing to their population fragmentation and the reluctance of the younger generation to adopt ethnomedicinal practices as occupation, which could lead to the loss of traditional knowledge as well. The study also documented the various important medicinal plant uses that could pave the way to the new pharmacological dimensions for modern wellness programs.
Educating patients about patient-reported outcomes—are we there yet?
Authors: Unni Elizabeth , van Muilekom Maud M. , Absolom Kate , Bajgain Bishnu , Haverman Lotte , Santana Maria
Published: September 2024

Background

Using Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in clinical settings can improve patient outcomes by enhancing communication between patient and provider. There has been significant improvements in the development of PROMs, their implementation in routine patient clinical care, training physicians and other healthcare providers to interpret the PROMs results to identify any issues reported by the patient, and to use the PROMs results to provide or modify the treatment.

Main body

Despite the increased use of PROMs, the lack of PROM completion by patients is a major concern in the optimal use of PROMs. Studies have shown several reasons why patients do not complete PROMs and one of the reasons is their lack of understanding of the significance of PROMs and their utility in their clinical care. While examining the various strategies that can be used to improve the uptake of PROM completion by patients, educating patients about the use of PROMs has been recommended. There is less evidence on how patients are trained or educated about PROMs. It may also be possible that the patient education strategies are not reported in the publications. This brings up the question of evaluation of the educational strategies used.

Conclusion

Our symposium at the 2023 ISOQOL conference brought together a range of experiences and learning around patient-centered PROMs educational activities used in the Netherlands, Canada, and the UK. This commentary is aimed to describe the lay of the land about educational activities around the use of PROMs in clinical care for patients, recognizing the gaps, and posing questions to be considered by the research and clinical community.
Patient-reported outcome measures for lupus nephritis: content validity of LupusQoL and FACIT-Fatigue
Authors: Martin Mona L. , Hill Jennifer N. , Rogers Jennifer L. , Chauhan Deven , Chen Wen-Hung , Gairy Kerry
Published: September 2024

Background

Lupus nephritis (LN), a severe organ manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), significantly impacts health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-Fatigue) and Lupus Quality of Life (LupusQoL) have been validated to measure HRQoL in SLE, but not specifically in LN. Patient-reported symptoms of LN are not well-reported. We assessed the content validity and relevance of these measures in evaluating patients with LN and their LN-related experiences.

Methods

This qualitative, interview-based study enrolled patients with LN from three US sites from a larger, retrospective survey study. The interview comprised an open-ended concept elicitation part and a more structured cognitive part. Concept elicitation was used to identify relevant themes describing the patients’ experiences. Patients were asked to describe their LN-related symptoms, the severity and impact of those symptoms and their satisfaction with treatment. A cognitive interview approach evaluated the appropriate understanding of the items, instructions, and response options and asked patients about their understanding of the FACIT-Fatigue or LupusQoL measures, their relevance to the condition, and any aspects of confusion or need for better clarity of the questionnaires. All interviews were recorded and transcribed. The concept elicitation data were coded, while the cognitive interview data were tabulated to present the participants’ responses next to the interview questions to support the evaluation of their understanding of the questionnaire items.

Results

Overall, 10 patients participated in FACIT-Fatigue and another 10 in LupusQoL interviews; 18 patients were female, 10 were Black (self-reported) and 17 were receiving maintenance treatment for LN with stable disease activity. When patients recalled their symptoms, 670 expressions of varying symptoms were reported. All patients described pain, discomfort, and energy-related symptoms. Urinary frequency and non-joint swelling were most frequently attributed to LN rather than SLE. Patients felt the questions asked in the FACIT-Fatigue and LupusQoL surveys were relevant to their LN experience.

Conclusions

The symptoms reported by patients with LN were consistent with symptoms reported by the overall SLE population. However, patients indicated that some symptoms of LN were more profound than symptoms of SLE alone, affecting a broad range of areas of daily life activity and resulting in a higher burden on their HRQoL. FACIT-Fatigue and LupusQoL demonstrated content relevance as meaningful tools for patients with LN. However, further quantitative data collection is needed to ensure that these patient-reported outcome tools demonstrate good measurement properties in an LN population.
Top 100 most cited articles on Patient Reported Experience Measures (PREM): insights and perspectives
Authors: Attar Asiya , Shukla Kasturi , Mulay Preeti
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Patient experience is fundamental to Patient-Centered Care (PCC). Although prior bibliometric research studies have focused on various aspects of PCC, a comprehensive analysis of PREM articles is required to understand its impact on the clinical practices. This study aims to analyze the top 100 most-cited PREM articles to examine the critical studies and related trends.

Methods

The 100 most cited articles on PREM were gathered from the Web of Science using a combination keyword search approach. The following information was extracted: study design, sample size, topic, number of citations, authorship, country, year of publication, journal title, and dimensions included in these PREM instruments. The VOSviewer software was used to generate graphical bibliometric networks.

Results

The citation count of the top 100 PREM articles varied from 20 to 775 citations. 21 articles had received a minimum of 100 citations. All the articles were in English, and out of these 45% were from the USA. The cross-sectional study (69%) was the most common study design, and the impact of treatment (44%) was the most frequent topic. The common PREM instruments used were customized PREM questionnaires (16%) and HCAHPS (10%).

Conclusion

This bibliometric research showed that the area of PREM is far from being saturated. The authors have attempted to provide an overview of global PREM research. Future research should focus on studies from underdeveloped and developing countries to develop condition–specific PREM tools. Longitudinal researches among special populations and studies in day-care and outpatient settings are recommended in future.
Machine learning-based prediction of new onset of atrial fibrillation after mitral valve surgery
Authors: Andrei Adin-Cristian , Cox James L. , Shah Sanjiv , Malaisrie Sukit Chris , Mehta Christopher , Efimov Igor R. , Churyla Andrei , Kruse Jane , McCarthy Patrick M.
Published: September 2024

Background

New-onset postoperative atrial fibrillation (nPOAF) is a common complication after cardiac surgery (30–50%), being associated with unfavorable long-term outcomes. Using the Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Adult Cardiac Database, we used machine learning (ML) to predict nPOAF and related 30-day outcomes following mitral valve (MV) surgery. A total of 27,856 MV operations were performed at 910 centers between 7/1/2017 and 6/30/2020 on patients without AF or a prior permanent pacemaker. The primary endpoint was nPOAF postoperatively. ML techniques utilized included penalized logistic regression, gradient boosting, decision trees, and random forests.

Results

The overall incidence of nPOAF was 35.4% and that of new pacemaker insertion was 5.6%. Patients who developed nPOAF were older (67 ± 10 vs 60 ± 13 years), had more mitral valve stenosis (14.1% vs 11.7%), and hypertension (72.1% vs 63.3%). They underwent more mitral valve replacement (39.1% vs 32.7%) and coronary artery bypass grafting (23.9% vs 16%). For predicting nPOAF, ML methods offer sensitivity, specificity and precision superior to logistic regression. The accuracy rate was identical with penalized and non-penalized logistic regression (0.672).

Conclusions

Predicting nPOAF and its short-term sequelae following MV surgery remains highly challenging. Machine learning methods offer a moderate degree of improvement in predicting nPOAF even in large national-level studies, in the absence of multi-modal data, such as real-time wearables data, electrocardiograms, heart rhythm monitoring, or cardiac imaging.
The neurophysiology of sensorimotor prosthetic control
Authors: Elbasiouny Sherif M.
Published: September 2024

Movement is a central behavior of daily living; thus lost or compromised movement due to disease, injury, or amputation causes enormous loss of productivity and quality of life. While prosthetics have evolved enormously over the years, restoring natural sensorimotor (SM) control via a prosthesis is a difficult problem which neuroengineering has yet to solve. With a focus on upper limb prosthetics, this perspective article discusses the neurophysiology of motor control under healthy conditions and after amputation, the development of upper limb prostheses from early generations to current state-of-the art sensorimotor neuroprostheses, and how postinjury changes could complicate prosthetic control. Current challenges and future development of smart sensorimotor neuroprostheses are also discussed.
Accuracy of self-perceived cardiovascular disease risk and factors predicting risk underestimation in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women in Ismailia, Egypt
Authors: Tawfik Mirella Youssef , Soliman Hanan H. , Abdel-Fatah Zeinab F.
Published: September 2024

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, with women at higher risk after menopause. This increased risk is attributed to both aging and hormonal changes. Prior research has established a link between CVD risk perception and adopting healthy behaviors to prevent CVD. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of self-perceived CVD risk in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, and to identify factors that predict CVD risk underestimation among them.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in the administrative sectors of Suez Canal University campus in Ismailia, Egypt, over a period of eight months starting in July 2022. A total of 390 eligible women (employees and workers) were randomly selected. Participants were interviewed to obtain data on demographics, medical history, self-perceived risk of CVD, self-perceived general health, awareness of factors that increase the risk of developing CVD, perceived stress, health literacy, numeracy, and self-perceived 10-year risk of developing major cardiovascular events. They also underwent measurements of blood pressure, weight, and height. The updated 2019 WHO/CVD risk non-laboratory-based prediction chart for the North Africa and Middle East Region was used to predict the 10-year risk of major cardiovascular events for the study participants. Risk accuracy was measured by comparing self-perceived CVD risk with predicted CVD risk.

Results

The ratio of self-perceived to predicted moderate/high CVD risk was 27.7% to 44.3%, respectively. The accuracy of CVD risk perception was 68.2%. Kappa analysis results showed fair and significant agreement between self-perceived and predicted CVD risk (kappa ± SE = 35.9 ± 4.1%, p < 0 .001). The proportion of women who underestimated their risks was 24.1%. Of those in the high-risk group, 93.3% underestimated their CVD risk, compared to 50.6% in the moderate-risk group. Factors that significantly predicted CVD risk underestimation included being married (aOR 14.5; 95% CI 1.4-149.9), low income (aOR 2.321; 95% CI 1.09-4.909), high BMI (aOR 4.78; 95% CI 1.9-11.9), hypertension (aOR 3.5; 95% CI 2-6.2), and old age (aOR 1.46; 95% CI 1.3-1.6).

Conclusions

Approximately one-third of our study participants misperceived their CVD risk; of those who did, 75.8% underestimated it. Marital status, old age, low income, high BMI, and hypertension strongly predicted CVD risk underestimation. These findings identified the menopausal women subgroups that could benefit from targeted health interventions designed to reduce CVD risk underestimation and improve risk accuracy.
Anticancer effects of washed-dehydrated solar salt doenjang and its metabolites
Authors: Lee So-Young , Hong Geun-Hye , Park Kun-Young
Published: September 2024

In this study, the anticancer effect of doenjang according to the type of salt was investigated. Three samples were prepared: doenjang made with purified salt, doenjang made with generally manufactured solar salt, and doenjang made with washed and dehydrated solar salt (WDSD). In mice in which colon cancer was induced with azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate, doenjang made with solar salt, especially doenjang made with washed and dehydrated solar salt, was found to have a much higher colon cancer inhibition effect. WDSD significantly promoted the mRNA expression of apoptosis-related factors such as Bcl-2–associated X protein (Bax) and caspase 9 and the cell cycle arrest-related factors p53 and p21, and conversely significantly reduced the mRNA expression of apoptosis inhibitors such as B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) (p < 0.05). Additionally, metabolites were investigated to determine which substances in WDSD exhibit this anticancer effect. As a result, the contents of isoflavone and soyasaponin B in the form of aglycons such as genistein, daidzein, and glycitein, which are known to have anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties, were found to be significantly high. Therefore, the results confirmed that doenjang prepared with washed and dehydrated solar salt has superior anticancer potential against colon cancer, and that various active ingredients contribute to the improvement of this functionality.
Noninvasive diagnostic value of urinary mir-663a in pediatric lupus nephritis
Authors: Albostany Toulin Mohamed Abdelaziz , Tarek Marwa , Adel Sherihan , Imam Maha , El-Owaidy Rasha , Sallam Dina E. , Ahmed Manal Basyouni
Published: September 2024

Background and objectives

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a severe clinical manifestation seen in individuals with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE). It has a poor long-term prognosis in pediatric patients with high morbidity and mortality rates. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding small RNAs that act as epigenetic modulators, regulating gene expression, and modulating the understanding of mechanisms and pathogenesis of human diseases. Depending on bioinformatics analysis, we aimed to investigate urinary expression of miR-663a in LN among SLE children and discriminate between proteinuria of LN versus chronic renal disease without SLE.

Methods

The urinary miR-663a expression levels were estimated in cellular pellets from 15 SLE patients, 15 SLE and biopsy-proven active LN patients, 15 chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients rather than LN and 15 healthy controls.

Results

LN patients had significantly higher urinary miR-663a expression levels compared to other groups (p < 0.0001). Urinary miR-663a at a cutoff of 8.61 had a diagnostic value of 93.3% for LN among pediatric SLE with 100% specificity (p < 0.0001). Moreover, miR-663a was upregulated in advanced grades and LN classes V, IV, and III compared to class II. Furthermore, miR-663a was positively correlated with the duration of SLE, activity index, chronicity index, urinary protein, anti-dsDNA, and SLEDAI score, and negatively correlated with serum complement C3 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

miR-663a could be related to the pathogenesis of kidney damage in LN; that could provide a specific noninvasive diagnostic and follow -up tool for LN patients.
Post-operative breast imaging: a management dilemma. Can mammographic artificial intelligence help?
Authors: Eissa Menna Allah Gaber , Al-Tohamy Sarah Fathy , Omar Omar Sherif , Salaheldin Lamia Adel
Published: September 2024

Background

Imaging of the postoperative breast is a challenging issue for the interpreting physician with many variable findings that may require additional assessment through targeted ultrasound, more mammography views, or other investigations. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a fast-developing field with various applications in the breast imaging including the detection and classification of lesions, the prediction of therapy response, and the prediction of breast cancer risk. This study aimed to identify whether Artificial Intelligence improves the mammographic detection and diagnosis of breast post-operative changes and hence improves follow-up and diagnostic workflow and reduces the need for additional exposure to extra radiation or contrast material doses as in Contrast Enhanced Mammography, and the need for interventional procedures as biopsy.

Methods

This cross-sectional analytic study included 66 female patients following breast-conserving surgeries coming with breast complaints or for follow-up, with mammographically diagnosed changes.

Results

Mammography had a sensitivity of 91.7%, a specificity of 94.4%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 78.6%, a negative predictive value (NPV) of 98.1%, and an accuracy of 93.9%, while the AI method indices were sensitivity 91.7%, specificity 92.6%, (PPV) 73.3%, (NPV) 98%, and accuracy 92.4%. The calculated cut-off point for the quantitative AI (probability of malignancy “POM” score) was 51.5%. There was a statistically significantly higher average in the percentage of POM in malignant cases (76.5 ± 27.3%) compared to benign cases (27.1 ± 19.7%). However, the final indices for the combined use of mammography and (AI) were sensitivity 100%, specificity 88.9%, (PPV) 66.7%, (NPV) 100%, and accuracy 90.9%.

Conclusion

Applying the AI algorithm on mammograms showed positive impacts on the sensitivity of the post-operative breast assessment, with an excellent reduction of the mammographic missed cancers.
Review of
Zeugodacus tau
(Walker) (Diptera: Tephritidae): biological characteristics and control strategy
Authors: Liu Xuxiang , Ji Qinge
Published: September 2024

Zeugodacus tau
is an important worldwide quarantine pest. The female adults insert their oviposition tube into the fruit epidermis to lay eggs, and the larvae feed inside the fruit. Therefore, the hazard of
Z. tau
primarily rely on adult egg laying and larval feeding.
Zeugodacus tau
is widely distributed in China and has caused serious economic losses to the industry of fruit and vegetable. Due to the need for a systematic compilation of basic biological knowledge and the increasing economic importance of fruits and vegetables, this paper systematically summarized the distribution and damage, morphological characteristics, biological characteristics and control strategies of
Z. tau
. Basic biological knowledge, such as geographical distribution, host species, the characteristics of its damage, spread, and transmission, characteristics of each insect stage, occurrence generations, growth and development, population dynamics, and living habits, will deepen our understanding of
Z. tau
. Preventive measures, such as risk analysis, prediction of suitable areas and quarantine monitoring, can guide pest prevention for crop production in safe areas. Management measures, such as agricultural control represented by fruit bagging and clean fields, physical and chemical attractants designed and developed by the characteristics of colour, phototaxis and chemotaxis, chemical control based on new green pesticides, biological control supported by predatory and parasitic natural enemies, can fully guide the integrated prevention and control of
Z. tau
. Depending on the size of the planting management area, both broad-area joint prevention and control as well as localized comprehensive management can be flexibly selected. While ensuring economic benefits, it also takes into account the cost input, and is committed to achieving an economically efficient and long-term green control of
Z. tau
.
Inflammatory biomarkers in depression: scoping review
Authors: Paganin Walter , Signorini Sabrina
Published: September 2024

Background

Inflammation is increasingly recognised as a fundamental component of the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD), with a variety of inflammatory biomarkers playing pivotal roles. These markers are closely linked to both the severity of symptoms and the responsiveness to treatments in MDD.

Aims

This scoping review aims to explore the scientific literature investigating the complex relationships between inflammatory biomarkers and depression, by identifying new studies and critical issues in current research.

Method

Following the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines, we systematically searched databases including PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Open Grey and Cochrane Library. Our search focused on articles published from 1 January 2020 to 1 May 2024. We included studies evaluating inflammatory biomarkers in adult patients with MDD, utilising observational and randomised controlled trial designs, and review studies.

Results

Our analysis examined 44 studies on the complex interplay between inflammation and its multiple effects on MDD. Significant associations between specific inflammatory biomarkers and depression severity were found, requiring cautious interpretation. We also highlight several methodological limitations in the current studies, which warrant caution in directly applying these findings to clinical practice. However, identified methodologies show potential for using these biomarkers as diagnostic tools or therapeutic targets, including anti-inflammatory interventions.

Conclusions

The findings emphasise the need for sophisticated, integrative research to understand inflammation's role in MDD. Future studies should identify specific biomarker panels for diagnosing depression and bridging peripheral biomarker measurements with central neuroinflammatory processes, leading to better diagnostic and treatment strategies.
Racial disparities influence access and outcomes in talking therapies
Authors: Bamrah J. S. , Rodger Sam , Naqvi Habib
Published: September 2024

The National Health Service Race and Health Observatory provides an evidence-based approach to tackling racial disparities in health and making policy recommendations. Its Mental Health Advisory Group is responsible for commissioning research into racial and ethnic disparities in mental health, and in this regard, improving access to psychological therapies became a key focus.
Mortality in patients with major depressive disorder: A nationwide population-based cohort study with 11-year follow-up
Authors: Bitter Istvan , Szekeres Gyorgy , Cai Qian , Feher Laszlo , Gimesi-Orszagh Judit , Kunovszki Peter , El Khoury Antoine C. , Dome Peter , Rihmer Zoltan
Published: September 2024

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability and premature mortality. This study compared the overall survival (OS) between patients with MDD and non-MDD controls stratified by gender, age, and comorbidities.

Methods

This nationwide population-based cohort study utilized longitudinal patient data (01/01/2010 – 12/31/2020) from the Hungarian National Health Insurance Fund database, which contains healthcare service data for the Hungarian population. Patients with MDD were selected and matched 1:1 to those without MDD using exact matching. The rates of conversion from MDD to bipolar disorder (BD) or schizophrenia were also investigated.

Results

Overall, 471,773 patients were included in each of the matched MDD and non-MDD groups. Patients with MDD had significantly worse OS than non-MDD controls (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.50; 95% CI: 1.48−1.51; males HR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.66–1.72; females HR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.38–1.42). The estimated life expectancy of patients with MDD was 7.8 and 6.0 years less than that of controls aged 20 and 45 years, respectively. Adjusted analyses based on the presence of baseline comorbidities also showed that patients with MDD had worse survival than non-MDD controls (adjusted HR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.28–1.31). After 11 years of follow-up, the cumulative conversions from MDD to BD and schizophrenia were 6.8 and 3.4%, respectively. Converted patients had significantly worse OS than non-converted patients.

Conclusions

Compared with the non-MDD controls, a higher mortality rate in patients with MDD, especially in those with comorbidities and/or who have converted to BD or schizophrenia, suggests that early detection and personalized treatment of MDD may reduce the mortality in patients diagnosed with MDD.
Effect on Travel Distance of a Statewide Regionalization Policy for Initial Breast Cancer Surgery
Authors: Bickell Nina A. , Nattinger Ann B. , McGinley Emily L. , Schymura Maria J. , Laud Purushottam W. , Pezzin Liliana E.
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

Reimbursement strategies to regionalize care can be effective for improving patient outcomes but may adversely affect access to care. We sought to determine the effect on travel distance for surgical treatment of a 2009 New York State (NYS) policy restricting Medicaid reimbursement for breast cancer surgery at low-volume hospitals.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From a linked data set merging the NYS tumor registry with hospital discharge data, we identified women younger than 65 years with stage I-III first breast tumors from pre- and post-policy periods. We classified patients by urbanicity of their residence into four geographic areas (New York City, other large urban core, suburban/large town, and small town/rural). A multivariable difference-in-difference-in-differences model was used to estimate the policy effect on the distance traveled by Medicaid and non-Medicaid insured patients before and after the policy, by area of residence.

RESULTS

Among the 46,029 study sample, 13.5% were covered by Medicaid. Regardless of insurance, women treated more recently traveled longer distances to their surgical facility than those in the prepolicy period. Regardless of time period, Medicaid beneficiaries drove fewer miles to treatment than women with other insurance. Although all women traveled greater distances postpolicy, the increase was not significantly different by insurance status (Medicaid or not), except for those living in suburban areas in which Medicaid patients traveled further postpolicy (+7.7 miles compared with +3.4 miles for non-Medicaid;
P
= .007).

CONCLUSION

After a policy regionalizing surgical care, only suburban Medicaid patients experienced a statistically significant (albeit small) increase in travel distance compared with non-Medicaid patients. In the state of NY, regionalization of breast cancer care yielded improved outcomes with minimal decrease in access.
Systemic barriers to access pharmaceutical-sponsored patient assistance programs: Implications for health equity and care delivery at safety-net systems.
Authors: Chintapenta Monica , Fatabhoy Irfan , Berge Carrie , Dickerson Umber , Sadeghi Navid
Published: September 2024

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Background:
The rising cost of cancer care, driven in large by oncology drugs, has a significant impact on access to care and contributes to disparities. Pharmaceutical-sponsored patient assistance programs (PAPs) are intended to improve access to care; however, vulnerable populations may experience delays, denials, and treatment interruptions due to complexity of the application process and variable qualifying requirements. We present the impact of a pharmacy-run process to facilitate access to PAPs at a safety-net institution.
Methods:
Parkland Health (PH) is the safety-net system for Dallas County, which has one of the highest uninsured rates in the US. PH provides free health care to uninsured patients below 250% of the federal poverty income level. Hematology-Oncology patients who are prescribed medications with an existing PAP are identified in a work queue within the EHR. A team of licensed pharmacy technicians - Medication Access Technicians (MATs) - screen patients and if eligible, assist in filling and submitting the application, and follow up with PAP sponsors to ensure timely review and approvals. MATs also monitor refills and assist in PAP renewals to prevent interruptions in care. In this study, we used the average wholesale price to quantify the value of the medications provided through PAPs. Data for 10/01/22 through 09/30/23 are presented here.
Results:
During the study period, MATs enrolled 548 uninsured patients (90% Hispanic/Black) in PAPs for 38 unique clinic-administered drugs, with an estimated value of 45.2 million (M), averaging 78,853 per patient. The highest value and most common clinic-administered PAP drugs were pembrolizumab (96 patients, $8 M) and rituximab (159 patients, $5 M), respectively. For oral agents, MATs enrolled 77 uninsured patients (84% Hispanic/Black) in PAPs for 20 unique medications with an estimated value of 8.8 M, averaging 114,711 per patient. Dasatinib was both the most common and highest value PAP oral drug, with 24 patients and an estimated value of 3.6 M. Of the 38 PAPs for clinic-administered drugs, 25 did not include replacement for dispensed medications. Legal US residence was required by 7 PAPs. The institutional investment by PH (MAT salaries) is estimated at 620,000 annually.
Conclusions:
A dedicated team of MATs at PH facilitated access to care through PAP enrollments, reduced treatment interruptions by renewing applications, and reduced institutional drug expenditure, allowing investment in other care delivery initiatives. PAPs are philanthropic by nature and requirements such as legal residence and no-replacement for dispensed medications may negatively impact specific segments of our communities, or result in treatment delays. Advocacy by professional organization and patient groups is warranted to expand access to these potentially life-saving programs.