bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with teenage pregnancy in the Scandinavian countries
Authors: Bennetsen Ane K.K. , Faber Mette T. , Nygaard Mari , Sundström Karin , Hansen Bo T. , Thomsen Louise T. , Munk Christian , Frederiksen Kirsten , Kjaer Susanne K.
Published: May 2023

Aims:

Teenage pregnancy may have negative consequences for the mother and the infant. The aim of the study was to examine whether selected individual factors occurring early in life were associated with teenage pregnancy.

Methods:

In a population-based, cross-sectional questionnaire study among 34,455 women from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden aged 20–45 years, who had first sexual intercourse (FSI) at age 13–19 years, we assessed the association between early smoking and drinking initiation (i.e., before the age of 13), contraceptive use at FSI, and teenage pregnancy. Log-linear binary regression models were fitted to estimate the relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of teenage pregnancy according to the three exposure variables, overall and by age at FSI. Furthermore, the outcomes of the teenage pregnancies were examined according to age at FSI.

Results:

Teenage pregnancy occurred in 11% of the population. Both early smoking initiation (RR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.4–1.8), early drinking initiation (RR: 1.2; 95% CI: 1.0–1.4), and non-use of contraceptives at FSI (RR: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.8–2.0) were associated with teenage pregnancy. The associations for early smoking initiation and non-use of contraceptives remained when analyses were stratified by age at FSI. Almost 60% of all teenage pregnant women had an induced abortion and less than 30% gave birth.

Conclusions:

Individual factors, including early smoking and drinking initiation, and non-use of contraceptives at FSI, were associated with teenage pregnancy regardless of age at FSI. This emphasizes the necessity of focusing on early risk-taking behavior as a potential modifier to prevent teenage pregnancy.
Can a self-regulation strategy help make social media more civil? Exploring the potential of mental contrasting with implementation intentions to reduce incivility in online political discussion
Authors: Kushin Matthew J , Yamamoto Masahiro
Published: May 2023

Civil interaction is a core practice of democratic participation. However, this condition is undermined by a contemporary landscape of online political discourse rife with incivility. Given the seemingly dismal state of American politics, a remedy to this problem is needed. We test the effects of a self-regulation intervention, mental contrasting with implementation intentions (MCII), on the expression of political incivility in a social media discussion setting. Data from two online experiments show that participants in the MCII condition expressed more civility and selected civil responses in response to uncivil communication cues. Implications are discussed.
Social media news editors as journalists or marketeers: Who are they and how do they identify themselves?
Authors: Opgenhaffen Michaël , Hendrickx Jonathan
Published: May 2023

Social media editors (SMEs) have become fixtures in contemporary newsrooms as part of designated social media teams. A growing body of scholarship has explored their daily work routines and how they try to ‘sell’ online news on platforms such as Facebook while caught in the middle between mass media and social media logics. Thus far, there is little clarity on how SMEs can be classified as newsroom workers, and even less so on how they classify and identify themselves. Through 22 expert interviews with Belgian and Dutch SMEs and a proposed expansion of Bourdieu’s field theory, this paper shines light on the role and identity of SMEs as the latest addition to the growing body of diverse newsroom workers. We argue that SMEs see themselves as journalists due to the nature of the job itself as well as their experience and other tasks in the news organization. Without seeing themselves as marketeers, they try to sell the news as best they can through social media. We conclude by making a case for seeing SMEs as an important group of news actors who can identify and signal early developments in the context of social media news.
Does Exercise Attenuate Disease Progression in People With Parkinson’s Disease? A Systematic Review With Meta-Analyses
Authors: Li Jiecheng A , Loevaas Marte B. , Guan Catherine , Goh Lina , Allen Natalie E. , Mak Margaret K. Y. , Lv Jinglei , Paul Serene S.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Exercise has many benefits for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and has been suggested to modify PD progression, but robust evidence supporting this is lacking.

Objective

This systematic review (PROSPERO registration: CRD42020169999) investigated whether exercise may have neuroplastic effects indicative of attenuating PD progression.

Methods

Six databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the effect of exercise to control (no or sham exercise) or to another form of exercise, on indicators of PD progression (eg, brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF], brain activation, “off” Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale [UPDRS] scores). Trial quality was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database Scale. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed where at least 3 comparable trials reported the same outcome; remaining results were synthesized narratively.

Results

Forty-nine exercise trials involving 2104 PD participants were included. Compared to control, exercise improved “off” UPDRS motor scores (Hedge’s g −0.39, 95% CI: −0.65 to −0.13, P = .003) and BDNF concentration (Hedge’s g 0.54, 95% CI: 0.10-0.98, P = .02), with low to very low certainty of evidence, respectively. Narrative synthesis for the remaining outcomes suggested that compared to control, exercise may have neuroplastic effects. The exercise versus exercise comparisons were too heterogenous to enable pooling of results.

Discussion

This review provides limited evidence that exercise may have an attenuating effect on potential markers of PD progression. Further large RCTs are warranted to explore differential effects by exercise type, dose and PD stage, and should report on a core set of outcomes indicative of PD progression.
Bringing Trauma Home: Reflections on Interviewing Survivors of Trauma while Working from Home
Authors: Flannery Elizabeth , Peters Kath , Murphy Gillian , Halcomb Elizabeth , Ramjan Lucie M.
Published: May 2023

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, working from home became the new normal for many professionals. While this was beneficial in managing the rapidly spreading virus, it had varying impacts on the mental health of those previously not accustomed to remote work. This paper provides a critical reflection of the researcher’s experience of conducting interviews with survivors of trauma while working from home. The research aimed to understand the experiences of significant others supporting patients with severe burn injury in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). As an experienced ICU nurse, the researcher has well developed personal coping strategies for dealing with complex trauma and in working with significant others of patients with severe burn injury in hospital settings. Due to the pandemic, data collection moved from face-to-face in the hospital, as originally intended, to phone or videoconference interviews. 17 participants were recruited, with all participants given the option of videoconference ( n = 3) or telephone interviews ( n = 14). Interviews had an average length of 55 minutes. This paper discusses the strategies adopted to cope with the sharing of significant others’ experiences of trauma while in the home environment. Careful consideration was needed for the researcher, the participants and those within the homes of both researcher and participant, in terms of psychological safety, ethical considerations and rapport building.
The Role of Epigenomics in Mapping Potential Precursors for Foot and Ankle Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Williams Samantha , Ligas Chandler , Oloff Lawrence , Klein Teri E.
Published: May 2023

Tendinopathy of the foot and ankle is a common clinical problem for which the exact etiology is poorly understood. The field of epigenetics has been a recent focus of this investigation. The purpose of this article was to review the genomic advances in foot and ankle tendinopathy that could potentially be used to stratify disease risk and create preventative or therapeutic agents. A multi-database search of PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and clinicaltrials.gov from January 1, 2000 to July 1, 2022 was performed. A total of 18 articles met inclusion and exclusion criteria for this review. The majority of such research utilized case-control candidate gene association to identify different genetic risk factors associated with chronic tendinopathy. Polymorphisms in collagen genes COL5A1, COL27A1, and COL1A1 were noted at a significantly higher frequency in Achilles tendinopathy versus control groups. Other allelic variations that were observed at an increased incidence in Achilles tendinopathy were TNC and CASP8. The extracellular matrix (ECM) demonstrated macroscopic changes in Achilles tendinopathy, including an increase in aggrecan and biglycan mRNA expression, and increased expression of multiple matrix metalloproteinases. Cytokine expression was also influenced in pathology and aberrantly demonstrated dynamic response to mechanical load. The pathologic accumulation of ECM proteins and cytokine expression alters the adaptive response normal tendon has to physiologic stress, further propagating the risk for tendinopathy. By identifying and understanding the epigenetic mediators that lead to tendinopathy, therapeutic agents can be developed to target the exact underlying etiology and minimize side effects.

Level of Evidence: Level IV: Systematic Review of Level II-IV Studies
What Can We Learn From the Short History of Independent Media in Serbia? Radio B92, George Soros, and New Models of Media Development
Authors: Steele Janet
Published: May 2023

Radio B92 was an iconic independent media institution in Serbia. Founded in 1989, B92 provided Belgrade listeners with subversive rock music, high-quality journalism, and independent perspectives on politics in the former Yugoslavia. An early adapter to the internet, B92 has been credited with sparking the many demonstrations that took place in Belgrade during the 1990s. While the role of Radio B92 during the turbulent days of the Yugoslav Wars is well known, less known is the role of its first CEO and news director in the creation of what would become the Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF). Drawing on semi-structured interviews with journalists, scholars, funders, diplomats, and media observers conducted in Belgrade in 2022, this study argues that much can be learned from the case of Radio B92 and the short history of independent media in Serbia. Although B92 ultimately met a tragic death at the hands of privatization and “market censorship,” the “impact investment” model of media development it sparked lives on. Combining affordable loan and equity financing with technical assistance and advisory services, MDIF’s model helps struggling news organizations avoid dependency on grants. Although the 2022 reelection of President Aleksandar Vučić demonstrates his party’s successful state capture of Serbian news media, a look back at the case of Radio B92 has implications for the broader question of what works in international media assistance and why.
Fostering Bottom-Up Censorship From the Top-Down: Nationalism and Media Restrictions
Authors: Anderson Nicole , Commins Aerin , Whitten-Woodring Jenifer
Published: May 2023

From US President Donald Trump’s Tweet labeling news media “the enemy of the people” to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s establishment of a politically appointed Media Authority, media freedom is under threat in democracies and nondemocracies alike. According to Freedom House, in 2016 media freedom declined globally to its lowest level since 2003, with Europe experiencing the largest regional decrease. We investigate the relationship between government and media in Hungary and Poland and develop a theory that the rise of nationalist sentiment and leaders who leverage this sentiment to encourage censorship from the bottom-up has led to increased media restrictions from the top-down. We posit that bottom-up censorship will erode media credibility and make people more accepting of top-down media restrictions, which could, in turn, lead to nationalism unchecked by the fourth estate. Using a multilevel analysis of World Values Survey, we analyze the relationship between nationalism and media distrust. Using a cross-national time series, we analyze the relationship between nationalist sentiment and media restrictions. We find that increased nationalism is indeed associated with media distrust and media restrictions.
Examining the Impact of Elastomeric Half Mask Respirator Knowledge and User Barriers on Safety Climate Perceptions in Health Care Settings
Authors: Haas Emily J. , Yoon Katherine , McClain Caitlin , Sietsema Margaret , Hornbeck Adam , Hines Stella , Chalikonda Sricharan , Angelilli Sara , Waltenbaugh Hope , Thurman Paul , Napoli Meghan , Fernando Rohan
Published: May 2023

Background:

Availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) and its effective use may influence safety climate perceptions among health care personnel (HCP). It is unclear how health care organizations can leverage the effective use of respiratory protection to engage in continuous improvement of their safety climate, which can inform opportunities for employee education and engagement.

Methods:

After using an elastomeric half mask respirator (EHMR) as their primary form of respiratory protection for several months, 1,080 HCP provided feedback in an electronic survey about respiratory protection training, confidence in EHMR use, barriers during use, and perceived safety climate. Ordinal logistic regressions were used as nonlinear models to test relationships between these variables.

Findings:

We observed that an increase in user confidence ( p < .013), training content ( p < .001), training formats ( p < .001), and a decrease in EHMR barriers ( p < .001) were associated with a statistically significant increase in proactive safety climate. In the second model, an increase in user confidence ( p < .006) and training content ( p < .001), and a decrease in barriers ( p < .001), was associated with a statistically significant increase in compliant safety climate.

Conclusions/Application to Practice:

HCP EHMR confidence was positively associated with safety climate perceptions, underscoring the value of competency building by respiratory protection leaders prior to implementation. Because fewer barriers experienced while using an EHMR were associated with a more positive perception of safety climate, it is important to first communicate with end users about potential barriers and, second, to continue research with end users and manufacturers to improve the design of EHMRs moving forward.
The Beginning of a Reckoning: An Application of Situational Crisis Communication Theory and Image Repair to the National Women’s Soccer League
Authors: Frederick Evan , Schmidt Samuel , Pegoraro Ann
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the crisis of systemic sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and misconduct in the NWSL within the frameworks of situational crisis communication theory (SCCT) and image-repair theory (IRT). Specifically, this research engaged with three data sources (1) the Yates Report which details team by team allegations, (2) team statements in response to the allegations being made public, and (3) social media interactions in response to all statements. Based on the Yates Report, the Portland Thorns, Chicago Red Stars, and Racing Louisville (as well as the NWSL and USSF) were placed firmly within the preventable crisis cluster, which is marked by organization misconduct and management misdeeds. In terms of SCCT strategies, commonly used approaches were ingratiation and apology. In terms of image repair, commonly used approaches were corrective action, bolstering, and mortification, with corrective action being the most frequently utilized strategy across all statements. Within the preventable cluster, the two statements that received the highest interaction rates and like ratios were those that employed scapegoating, shifting blame, and corrective action. The implications of these findings as well as the utility of SCCT and IRT within the crisis communication landscape are discussed.
Inclusion of Trainee Stakeholders Is Necessary for Effective Change in Health-Service-Psychology Internship Training
Authors: Palitsky R. , Reznik S. J. , Kaplan D. M. , Anderson M. R. , Athey A. , Brodt M. A. , Coffino J. A. , Egbert A. , Hallowell E. S. , Fox-Fuller J. T. , Han G. T. , Hartmann M.-A. , Herbitter C. , Herrera Legon M. , Hughes C. , Hosking C. R. , Jao N. C. , Kassel M. T. , Le T.-A. P. , Levin-Aspenson H. F. , López G. , Maroney M. R. , Medrano M. , Rogers M. L. , Stevenson B.
Published: May 2023

In a recent call to action, we described pressing issues in the health-service-psychology (HSP) internship from the perspective of interns. In our article, we sought to initiate a dialogue that would include trainees and bring about concrete changes. The commentaries on our article are a testament to the readiness of the field to engage in such a dialogue, and we applaud the actionable recommendations that they make. In our response to these commentaries, we seek to move the conversation further forward. We observe two themes that cut across these responses: the impetus to gather novel data on training (the “need to know”) and the importance of taking action (the “need to act”). We emphasize that in new efforts to gather data and take policy-level action, the inclusion of trainee stakeholders (as well as others involved in and affected by HSP training) is a crucial ingredient for sustainable and equitable change.
Survivorship of Allologous Structural Bone Graft at a Minimum of 2 Years When Used to Address Significant Glenoid Bone Loss in Revision Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Computed Tomographic and Clinical Review
Authors: Viswanath Aparna , Newell Amy K , Cunningham Lindsay J , Walton Mike , Monga Puneet , Bale Steve , Trail Ian A
Published: May 2023

Background

This study assesses outcomes in revision shoulder replacements where the glenoid bone loss was managed using a structural allograft (donated femoral head) in combination with a trabecular titanium (TT) implant.

Methods

We contacted patients who had undergone revision shoulder arthroplasty using the Lima Axioma TT metal-backed glenoid with an allologous bone graft as a composite who were over 2 years since surgery. Patients underwent computerd tomography evaluation, clinical review, and scoring preoperatively, at 6 months and the latest follow-up.

Results

Fifteen patients were included with a mean age of 59 (33-76). The average follow-up period was 40.5 months (24-51). 80% showed satisfactory bone graft incorporation and peg integration at the latest follow-up. Three had signs of significant bone graft resorption, although in 2 patients the pegs were still soundly fixed in the host bone. Clinically all patients showed a statistically significant improvement in pain relief, movement, and function. No unusual complications were reported.

Conclusion

Results show femoral head structural allograft in combination with TT metal-backed glenoid baseplate is a viable option for revision total shoulder replacement in the context of massive glenoid bone loss. We do, however, acknowledge that this resorption rate is higher than in other reported series where autograft is used.
When to Use Different Inferential Methods for Power Analysis and Data Analysis for Between-Subjects Mediation
Authors: Fossum Jessica L. , Montoya Amanda K.
Published: May 2023

Several options exist for conducting inference on indirect effects in mediation analysis. Although methods that use bootstrapping are the preferred inferential approach for testing mediation, they are time-consuming when the test must be performed many times for a power analysis. Alternatives that are more computationally efficient are not as robust, meaning accuracy of the inferences from these methods is more affected by nonnormal and heteroskedastic data. Previous research has shown that different sample sizes are needed to achieve the same amount of statistical power for different inferential approaches with data that meet all the statistical assumptions of linear regression. By contrast, we explore how similar power estimates are at the same sample size, including when assumptions are violated. We compare the power estimates from six inferential methods for between-subjects mediation using a Monte Carlo simulation study. We varied the path coefficients, inferential methods for the indirect effect, and degree to which assumptions are met. We found that when the assumptions of linear regression are met, three inferential methods consistently perform similarly: the joint significance test, the Monte Carlo confidence interval, and the percentile bootstrap confidence interval. When the assumptions were violated, the nonbootstrapping methods tended to have vastly different power estimates compared with the bootstrapping methods. On the basis of these results, we recommend using the more computationally efficient joint significance test for power analysis only when no assumption violations are hypothesized a priori. We also recommend the joint significance test to pick an optimal starting sample size value for power analysis using the percentile bootstrap confidence interval when assumption violations are suspected.
Critical vulnerabilities for diversion of controlled substances in the emergency department: Observations and healthcare failure mode and effect analysis
Authors: de Vries Maaike , Fan Mark , Tscheng Dorothy , Hamilton Michael , Trbovich Patricia
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Drug theft by healthcare workers is a recognized problem in emergency departments (EDs) that can lead to patient, healthcare worker, and organization harm. Diversion takes various forms, including tampering with syringes, pilfering from waste containers and falsely documenting drug administration. Before implementing risk-mitigating interventions, we need a detailed understanding of the vulnerabilities in ED medication-use processes. This study sought to identify the critical failure modes (CFMs) within EDs that increase diversion risk and characterize the system factors contributing to CFMs.

Methods

Between June 2018 and February 2019, we conducted observations in two Ontario EDs. Observers recorded tasks carried out by nurses, pharmacists, and physicians. We performed a Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis, informed by the observation data, to proactively identify CFMs in the medication-use processes. Failure modes were coded for their effects on diversion risk and the contributing system factors.

Results

We identified 28 CFMs that increase diversion risk by enabling inappropriate access to controlled substances or compromising documentation. CFMs are multifactorial, stemming primarily from factors related to person (e.g., intent to divert) and tools/technology (e.g., limited automatic reconciliation of records), followed by organization (e.g., practices that diffuse accountability), environment (e.g., workspaces that obscure illicit behaviours), and task (e.g., unstructured processes leading to lapses).

Conclusion

The study findings inform opportunities to revise vulnerable processes and bolster safeguards, decreasing diversion risk and protecting patients and healthcare workers.
The Comparison of Pulsatility Index, Resistance Index, and Diameter of the Temporal, Carotid, and Vertebral Arteries During Active Migraine Headaches to Non-Headache Intervals
Authors: Akhoundi Neda , Rezazadeh Elmira , Siami Alireza , Komijani Bozchelouei Javad , Ramezani Mahtab , Nosrati Maryam
Published: May 2023

Objective:

Migraine is a debilitating disease affecting a large number of young people. In this study, he aim was to assess the extracranial arteries during migraine headaches and non-headache headache intervals using sonography.

Materials and Methods:

The study enrolled 210 patients with confirmed migraine headaches. The vertebral arteries, superficial temporal arteries, internal carotid arteries (ICAs), and common carotid arteries were assessed using a sonographic method. Grayscale and spectral doppler criteria, such as the diameter of arteries, peak systolic velocity (PSV), and pulsatility index (PI), during migraine headaches and non-headache headache intervals were measured.

Results:

Assessing the vertebral and external carotid arteries, a significant difference was observed between the diameter of the arteries during active headaches and that during non-headache headache periods. The mean PSV of ICA during active headaches was 60.05 cm/s, which was lower than that during non-headache headache periods, which was 69.35 cm/s ( P = .016).

Conclusion:

In this cohort’s migraine headaches, the diameter of the superficial temporal artery and ICA are increased and the diameter of the vertebral artery is decreased. Decreased PSV of the vertebral artery in contrast with increased PSV of the temporal artery is seen during headaches. These diagnostic findings may be useful in predicting migraine headaches and should be replicated with other patients.
Employees of the banking sector in Guizhou Province in China: prevalence of migraine, symptoms, disability and occupational risk factors
Authors: Wei Du , Loganathan Tharani , Wong Li Ping
Published: May 2023

Background

Although studies have identified a high prevalence of migraine among employees in the banking sector, the symptoms of migraine, related disability and occupational risk factors are not well understood.

Aims

To determine migraine prevalence, symptoms and disability among bank employees in Guizhou province in China and to examine occupational risk factors associated with migraine positivity and symptoms.

Methods

In a cross-sectional survey, two-stage probability sampling was used to select bank employees in Guizhou province, China. From May to October 2022, uniformly trained interviewers conducted face-to-face interviews using the HARDSHIP questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with migraine positivity and symptoms.

Results

Of 1,985 contactable eligible subjects, 1,929 (male 45.4%, female 54.6%) completed the survey. The one-year prevalence of migraine was 27.2% (95% CI 25.2–29.2%). Of migraine-positive individuals, 11.2% had a monthly frequency ≥ 15 days, 11.8% had an attack duration > 72 h, and 14.9% had severe pain intensity. The median of days lost from work, housework and social activities due to migraine during a three-month period was 4, 3 and 2 days, respectively, with more than half (52.8%) patients reporting Grade III or IV disability. In multivariable analyses, positions in data analysis (OR = 1.8 [95% CI 1.2–2.8], p < 0.01) and information technology (OR = 3.8 [95% CI 1.7–8.3], p < 0.01) were occupational risk factors for migraine positivity. It was also found that professional positions were predictive of migraine attacks ≥ 15 days per month, administrative positions were predictive of duration > 72 h and severe pain intensity of migraine attacks, and working in remote branches was predictive of duration > 72 h.

Conclusions

Migraine is prevalent among employees in the banking sector in Guizhou province in China, with a large proportion of sufferers carrying a high burden of symptoms and disability. The practical implication of this study is that the risk factors identified here could be translated to the focus of workplace monitoring and interventions to manage and prevent migraine.
BGWAS: Bayesian variable selection in linear mixed models with nonlocal priors for genome-wide association studies
Authors: Williams Jacob , Xu Shuangshuang , Ferreira Marco A. R.
Published: May 2023

Background

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) seek to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that cause observed phenotypes. However, with highly correlated SNPs, correlated observations, and the number of SNPs being two orders of magnitude larger than the number of observations, GWAS procedures often suffer from high false positive rates.

Results

We propose BGWAS, a novel Bayesian variable selection method based on nonlocal priors for linear mixed models specifically tailored for genome-wide association studies. Our proposed method BGWAS uses a novel nonlocal prior for linear mixed models (LMMs). BGWAS has two steps: screening and model selection. The screening step scans through all the SNPs fitting one LMM for each SNP and then uses Bayesian false discovery control to select a set of candidate SNPs. After that, a model selection step searches through the space of LMMs that may have any number of SNPs from the candidate set. A simulation study shows that, when compared to popular GWAS procedures, BGWAS greatly reduces false positives while maintaining the same ability to detect true positive SNPs. We show the utility and flexibility of BGWAS with two case studies: a case study on salt stress in plants, and a case study on alcohol use disorder.

Conclusions

BGWAS maintains and in some cases increases the recall of true SNPs while drastically lowering the number of false positives compared to popular SMA procedures.
Research recruitment and consent methods in a pandemic: a qualitative study of COVID-19 patients’ perspectives
Authors: Small Serena S , Lau Erica , McFarlane Kassandra , Archambault Patrick M , Longstaff Holly , Hohl Corinne M
Published: May 2023

Background

Virtual data collection methods and consent procedures adopted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic enabled continued research activities, but also introduced concerns about equity, inclusivity, representation, and privacy. Recent studies have explored these issues from institutional and researcher perspectives, but there is a need to explore patient perspectives and preferences. This study aims to explore COVID-19 patients’ perspectives about research recruitment and consent for research studies about COVID-19.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory qualitative focus group and interview study among British Columbian adults who self-identified as having had COVID-19. We recruited participants through personal contacts, social media, and REACH BC, an online platform that connects researchers and patients in British Columbia. We analyzed transcripts inductively and developed thematic summaries of each coding element.

Results

Of the 22 individuals recruited, 16 attended a focus group or interview. We found that autonomy and the feasibility of participation, attitudes toward research about COVID-19, and privacy concerns are key factors that influence participants’ willingness to participate in research. We also found that participants preferred remote and virtual approaches for contact, consent, and delivery of research on COVID-19.

Conclusions

Individuals who had COVID-19 are motivated to participate in research studies and value autonomy in their decision to participate, but researchers must be sensitive and considerate toward patient preferences and concerns, particularly as researchers adopt virtual recruitment and data collection methods. Such awareness may increase research participation and engagement.
Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) proposed vaccines: a systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies
Authors: Seighali Niloofar , Shafiee Arman , Rafiee Mohammad Ali , Aminzade Dlnya , Mozhgani Sayed-Hamidreza
Published: May 2023

Background

Numerous vaccination research experiments have been conducted on non-primate hosts to prevent or control HTLV-1 infection. Therefore, reviewing recent advancements for status assessment and strategic planning of future preventative actions to reduce HTLV-1 infection and its consequences would be essential.

Methods

MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Clinicaltrials.gov were searched from each database's inception through March 27, 2022. All original articles focusing on developing an HTLV-1 vaccine candidate were included.

Results

A total of 47 studies were included. They used a variety of approaches to develop the HTLV-1 vaccine, including DNA-based, dendritic-cell-based, peptide/protein-based, and recombinant vaccinia virus approaches. The majority of the research that was included utilized Tax, Glycoprotein (GP), GAG, POL, REX, and HBZ as their main peptides in order to develop the vaccine. The immunization used in dendritic cell-based investigations, which were more recently published, was accomplished by an activated CD-8 T-cell response. Although there hasn't been much attention lately on this form of the vaccine, the initial attempts to develop an HTLV-1 immunization depended on recombinant vaccinia virus, and the majority of results seem positive and effective for this type of vaccine. Few studies were conducted on humans. Most of the studies were experimental studies using animal models. Adenovirus, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), vaccinia, baculovirus, hepatitis B, measles, and pox were the most commonly used vectors.

Conclusions

This systematic review reported recent progression in the development of HTLV-1 vaccines to identify candidates with the most promising preventive and therapeutic effects.
Bradykinin B2 receptor blockade and intradialytic hypotension
Authors: Gamboa Jorge L. , Mambungu Cindy A. , Clagett Adrienne R. , Nian Hui , Yu Chang , Ikizler T. Alp , Brown Nancy J.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Intradialytic hypotension (IDH) is a common clinical complication and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). The pathogenesis of IDH has been attributed to the rapid reduction of plasma volume during hemodialysis and the inadequate compensatory mechanisms in response to hypovolemia, such as the lack of vasoconstriction. This may be due to the increased production of vasodilators, such as bradykinin. In this study we test the hypothesis that bradykinin B2 receptor blockade prevents intradialytic hypotension.

Methods

We performed a post-hoc analysis of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, 2 × 2 crossover clinical trial comparing the continuous infusion of icatibant, a bradykinin B2 receptor blocker, and placebo during hemodialysis. Icatibant or placebo was infused for 30 min before and during hemodialysis in 11 patients on MHD.

Results

Seven of the patients had IDH, defined as a reduction of systolic blood pressure equal to or greater than 20 mmHg during hemodialysis. Stratified analysis, based on the presence of IDH, revealed that icatibant prevented the decrease in blood pressure compared to placebo in patients with IDH [blood pressure at average nadir (2.5 h after hemodialysis): Placebo,114.3 ± 8.9 vs. icatibant, 125.6 ± 9.1 mmHg, mean ± S.E.M]. Icatibant did not affect blood pressure in the group of patients without IDH.

Conclusion

Bradykinin B2 receptor blocker may prevent the occurrence of IDH. Further studies should evaluate the hemodynamic effects of icatibant during hemodialysis and the symptomatology associated with IDH.
Caprylic Acid (FFA C8:0) promotes the progression of prostate cancer by up-regulating G protein-coupled receptor 84/ Krüppel-like factor 7
Authors: Li Xue , Yuan Chenggang , Yang Bingqi , Pang Huai , Li Wei , Li Menghuan , Tang Yihan , Ma Dingling , Xie Jianxin , Wang Jingzhou , Zhang Jun
Published: May 2023

Background

In previous study, we found that the content of medium-chain fatty acid Caprylic Acid (FFA C8:0) may be an important risk factor of obesity induced prostate cancer (PCa). However, the relationship between FFA C8:0 and PCa has not been reported. In this study, we explored whether the FFA C8:0 can promotes the progression of PCa by up-regulating Krüppel-like factor 7 (KLF7).

Methods

We collected tissues from PCa patients and Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH), constructed a primary-tumor bearing mouse model with obesity through high-fat diet, and observed the tumor formation ability of PCa cells. In vitro, CCK8 assay, plate cloning, Transwell and scratch experiment were used to detect the changes in biological behavior of PCa cells stimulated by FFA C8:0.

Results

First, we found that the expression level of KLF7 is higher in PCa tissues of patients, and the expression of KLF7 is positively correlated with tumour-promoting gene IL-6, while it is negative correlated with another tumour-suppressor gene p21. Then, this study found that PCa cells were more likely to form tumors in diet induced obese mice. Compared with the normal diet group (ND), the expression levels of KLF7 in tumor tissues in high-fat diet group (HFD) were higher. Futhermore, we verified that high concentrations of FFA C8:0 can promote the biological behavior of PCa cells by activating KLF7/IL-6/p21 signaling pathway, which is mediated by the GPR84.

Conclusions

Our research may provide a potential target for clinical prevention and treatment of PCa which induced by obesity.
Mediators and moderators of the effect of the game changers for cervical cancer prevention intervention on cervical cancer screening among previously unscreened social network members in Uganda
Authors: Matovu Joseph KB , Wagner Glenn J. , Juncker Margrethe , Namisango Eve , Bouskill Kathryn , Nakami Sylvia , Beyeza-Kashesya Jolly , Luyirika Emmanuel , Wanyenze Rhoda K.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Cervical cancer (CC) rates are high in Uganda, yet CC screening rates are very low. Our peer advocacy group intervention, Game Changers for Cervical Cancer Prevention (GC-CCP), was shown to increase CC screening uptake among social network members. In this secondary analysis, we examined mediators and moderators of this effect to better understand how and for whom the intervention was most successful in promoting CC screening.

Methods

We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial of GC-CCP in Namayingo district, Eastern Uganda between September 2021 and April 2022. Forty adult women who had screened for CC in the past year (index participants) enrolled at baseline: 20 were randomized to receive the 7-session intervention to empower women to engage in CC prevention advocacy, and 20 were assigned to the waitlist control; from these index participants, 103 unscreened social network members (alters) also enrolled. All participants were assessed at baseline and month 6 follow-up. Change in cognitive and behavioral CC-related constructs from baseline to month 6 were examined as mediators, using multivariate linear regression analysis. Index and alter demographics and index CC treatment status were examined as moderators.

Results

Increased alter engagement in CC prevention advocacy fully mediated the intervention effect on alter uptake of CC screening, and was associated with an increased likelihood of alter CC screening. CC treatment status of the index participant was the sole moderator of the intervention effect, as those in the intervention group who had screened positive and received treatment for pre-cancerous lesions were more likely to have alters who got screened for CC by month 6.

Conclusion

The effect of GC-CCP on alter CC screening is greater when the alter reports increased engagement in her own advocacy for CC prevention with others. The intervention effects on increased engagement in CC prevention advocacy among both index and alter participants suggest a diffusion of advocacy, which bodes well for dissemination of knowledge and screening activation throughout a network and the larger community.
The importance of oriented physical activity in the first 48 months: differences in motor skills
Authors: Rebelo Miguel , Serrano João , Paulo Rui , Duarte-Mendes Pedro , Santos Jorge , Honório Samuel , Petrica João
Published: May 2023

Background

The importance of physical activity in the first months of age is well known, however, with the evolution of the urban environment, the excessive workload of parents and the excessive time in growing up in kindergartens has limited this same free practice and little has been studied about this issue. In Portugal, there are institutions that provide oriented physical activity for their children, however, this is optional, which may create disadvantages in children’s motor skills in these ages.

Objective

The objective of the study isto verify if there are differences in the development of motor skills (global and fine) comparing children between 12 and 48 months who practice oriented physical activity (OPA) and children who do not.

Methods

Participated in this study, 400 children of both genders (28.14 ± 7.23 months). Two groups were created (the group that had oriented physical activity (30 min long and 2 times a week) and the group that didn’t have oriented physical activity). For a better understanding they were divided into 3 age groups (12–23, 24–35 and 36–48 months). Motor skills were assessed using the PDMS-2 scales, for 6 months, following the instrument’s application standards.

Results

In a first analysis, we found that the majority of children only start to practice oriented physical activity in institutions from 36 months of age, however, it is in the first months (from 12 to 35) that the greatest differences between the two groups can occur. The OPA group presented better results according to the mean values, in all motor skills. Differences between groups were most noticeable in Postural, locomotion and fine manipulation Skills (showing effect size: moderate and low).

Conclusions

We can conclude that a practice of oriented physical activity in the first 48 months is fundamental to the development of motor skills. It is in the first months (up to 36) that there are greater differences, but it is also where there are less children carrying out guided physical activity. This is an important factor, and is determinant to make institutions aware of this importance of this variable in child development.
Global prevalence, incidence, and outcomes of alcohol related liver diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Niu Xuanxuan , Zhu Lin , Xu Yifan , Zhang Menghan , Hao Yanxu , Ma Lei , Li Yan , Xing Huichun
Published: May 2023

Background

Alcohol related liver disease (ARLD) is one of the major chronic liver diseases worldwide. This review aimed to describe the global prevalence, incidence, and outcomes of ARLD.

Methods

Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched from inception to May 31, 2022. The language was restricted to English or Chinese. According to the criteria, articles describing the basic characteristics of the population were selected. Two reviewers extracted the data independently.

Results

A total of 372 studies were identified: 353 were used for prevalence analysis, 7 were used for incidence analysis, and 114 were used to for outcome analysis. The prevalence of ARLD worldwide was 4.8%. The prevalence in males was 2.9%, which was higher than female (0.5%). Among the ethnic groups, the percentage was highest in Caucasians (68.9%). Alcoholic liver cirrhosis comprised the highest proportion in the disease spectrum of ARLD at 32.9%. The prevalence of ascites in ARLD population was highest (25.1%). The ARLD population who drinking for > 20 years accounted for 54.8%, and the average daily alcohol intake was 146.6 g/d. About 59.5% of ARLD patients were current or former smokers, and 18.7% were complicated with hepatitis virus infection. The incidence was 0.208/1000 person-years. The overall mortality was 23.9%, and the liver-related mortality was 21.6%.

Conclusion

The global prevalence of ARLD was 4.8% and was affected by sex, region, drinking years, and other factors. Therefore, removing the factors causing a high disease prevalence is an urgent requisite.

Trial registration

PROSPERO Nr: CRD42021286192
Treatment of comminuted metaphyseal distal femoral fractures with a micromotion-balancing osteosynthesis: an animal study
Authors: Duan Zhengwei , Hu Hao , Wang Yang , Wang Diankai , Lu Hua
Published: May 2023

Background

Locking plates are commonly used in the treatment of comminuted metaphyseal distal femoral fractures. However, locking plates form a strong structure and promote asymmetrical callus formation, which is not conducive for rapid fracture healing and may increase fracture risk. To overcome this, we designed a micromotion-balancing fixation system based on locking plates.

Methods

Six healthy pigs (Bama miniature pigs) were used to establish a model of bilateral comminuted distal femoral fracture (AO/ASIF: 33-C2). Standard drilling was performed on one of each pig’s hind limbs (control group), whereas eccentric drilling was performed on the other hind limb (experimental group). Both femurs were fixed with a 3-hole locking compression plate using 5-mm-diameter screws. At 12 postoperative weeks, all pigs were euthanized and the femurs with compression plates were radiographically examined. The level of fracture healing and loosening/internal fixation failure were recorded. Bone mineral density, number of trabeculae, trabecular morphology, and calcification precipitations were assessed.

Results

All pigs survived, and the fractures healed. No complications related to fracture healing, such as infection and internal fixation failure, were noted. The bone mineral density of the near and far cortical calli, number of the near and far cortical callus trabeculae, and difference in bone mineral density between the near and far cortical calli in the experimental group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < 0.01). However, the difference in the number of trabeculae between the near and far cortical calli was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

This newly designed system provides stable fixation for comminuted distal femoral fracture, increases the overall strain at the fracture site, and balances the strains at the near and far cortices to achieve uniform callus growth and fracture healing.
The anti-plaque effect of high concentration sodium bicarbonate dentifrice on plaque formation and gingival inflammation, irrespective to individual polishing technique and plaque quality
Authors: Abrahamsen Siren , Koldsland Odd Carsten , Preus Hans R.
Published: May 2023

Aim

To assess the anti-plaque effect of a high concentration sodium bicarbonate dentifrice on plaque formation, and gingivitis, as compared to a control toothpaste, irrespective of individual brushing technique and plaque quality.

Methods

The experimental gingivitis model, with a split-mouth design was used to assess the anti-plaque effect of a high concentration sodium bicarbonate dentifrice on plaque formation. By producing individual fitted trays, the toothpaste was applied in the test quadrant and a control dentifrice in the contralateral. The participants used the individual fitted trays for 1 min every morning and evening, for 21 days. In this period, the participants was only allowed to brush the teeth in the opposite jaw, as usual. Twenty healthy individuals successfully completed the study.

Results

At 21 days, there was no statistically significant difference between test quadrant and control quadrant with regard to plaque indices, gingival index and number of bleeding sites.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the high concentration sodium bicarbonate dentifrice used did not produce statistically significant anti-plaque effect compared to the control dentifrice, in terms of Plaque- and Gingival Indices, number of bleeding sites or by Quigely and Hein, the Turesky modification Plaque Index, irrespective of brushing technique and individual plaque quality.

Trial registration

Regional Committee for Medical Research and Ethics, South-East Norway in 2021 (REK.2021/370116).

Clinical Trial Registration: NCT05441371 (First registered 09/06/2022, First posted 01/07/2022) (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov). (Retrospectively registered).