bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Young Adults’ Anti-Consumption Tendencies toward Organic Foods in Vietnam: The Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy
Authors: Phan The Anh , Pham Ngoc Bao Thi
Published: November 2023

This study aims to shed light on the determinants of organic food purchase intention in Vietnam. It provides novel insights by demonstrating that perceived value and perceived quality significantly influence purchase intention, while price does not. Moreover, the study unravels the critical mediating role of self-efficacy between price, perceived value, perceived quality, and purchase intention. These findings carry significant implications for marketers and advertising professionals as they offer insights into how promoting the perceived value and quality of organic food over price can drive purchase intention. Additionally, the research reveals how self-efficacy affects consumer behavior, highlighting the need to design effective interventions that improve self-efficacy to increase organic food consumption in Vietnam. Thus, this study has significant practical implications for marketers and policymakers who seek to reduce anti-consumption behavior toward organic food and promote its cultivation and marketing in Vietnam.
Learning across Diverse Training Modalities is Different across Gender: Insights from a Neuroergonomics Approach
Authors: Hayes John , Dwivedi Shivangi , Pedron Isabella , Gabbard Joe , Mehta Ranjana K.
Published: November 2023

Recent challenges such as COVID-19 call for innovative methods of delivering training. In this study, we compare the effectiveness of augmented reality (AR) based psychomotor learning compared to videobased training. Participants completed either AR or video training to learn four basic AR interactions, before completing an AR evaluation. The AR group reported greater workload during training but demonstrated better performance during evaluation. We used functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to compare brain activation and functional connectivity across groups during evaluation. We found that participants in the AR group displayed smaller brain networks during the evaluation, suggesting more efficient utilization of neural resources. Sex differences in activation and connectivity suggest that men and women potentially employ different neural strategies while learning motor skills in AR. Future studies should examine how these differences could impact performance and user experience in future AR-based training programs.
Effect of Injury to the Lateral Meniscotibial Ligament and Meniscofibular Ligament on Meniscal Extrusion: Biomechanical Evaluation of the Capsulodesis and Centralization Techniques in a Porcine Knee Model
Authors: Morales-Avalos Rodolfo , Diabb-Zavala José Manuel , Mohamed-Noriega Nasser , Vilchez-Cavazos Félix , Perelli Simone , Padilla-Medina José Ramón , Torres-Gaytán Adrián Gerardo , Huesca-Pérez Héctor Adán , Erosa-Villarreal Roger Armando , Monllau Joan Carles
Published: November 2023

Background:

Previous biomechanical studies of the meniscotibial ligament have determined that it contributes to meniscal stability. An injury to it can cause the meniscus to extrude, and reconstruction of that ligament significantly reduces extrusion.

Purpose:

To assess the biomechanical effects of sectioning the lateral meniscotibial ligament (LMTL) and the meniscofibular ligament (MFL) with respect to the radial mobility of the lateral meniscus and to evaluate the biomechanical effects of the capsulodesis and centralization techniques.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

The lateral meniscus of 22 porcine knees was evaluated. They were mounted on a testing apparatus to apply muscle and ground-reaction forces. The meniscus was evaluated at 30° and 60° of knee flexion using 2 markers placed on the posterior cruciate ligament and the lateral meniscus after applying an axial compression of 200 N to the knee joint. Measurements were recorded under 5 conditions: intact lateral meniscus, injury of the LMTL, subsequent injury of the MFL, the use of the open capsulodesis technique, and the reconstruction of the LMTL and the MFL with the centralization technique.

Results:

The distance between the 2 markers was significantly greater in the extrusion group (combined lesion of the LMTL and MFL) than in the intact or reconstruction groups (capsulodesis and centralization techniques; P < .001 in all cases). In the cases of load application, no significant differences were observed between the control group (intact meniscus) and the groups on which the reconstruction techniques were performed. There were also no differences when comparing the results obtained between both reconstruction techniques. In all settings, the distance between the 2 markers increased with the increase in the knee flexion angle.

Conclusion:

In a porcine model, the LMTL and the MFL participated as restrictors of the radial mobility of the lateral meniscus during loading. Their injury caused a significant increase in lateral meniscal extrusion, and the centralization and the capsulodesis procedures were able to reduce extrusion.

Clinical Relevance:

This study demonstrates the capacity of the LMTL and the MFL to restrict the radial mobility of the lateral meniscus during loading and how it is affected when they are injured.
The Effect of Pass/Fail Exam Grading on Exam Performance in a Pediatric Clerkship
Authors: Kahle Madison E , Hamann Kayla M , Sakher Aliya A , Goble Spencer R , Murray Katherine , Miller-Chang Yeng M , Olson Andrew PJ
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE

Clerkship grades are a component of determining a residency candidate's competitiveness. In 2017, the University of Minnesota Medical School's pediatric clerkship transitioned its standardized multiple-choice exam, the Aquifer Pediatrics Examination, to pass/fail with eligibility for honors being determined by clinical performance, not exam performance. We assessed the effect this change had on Aquifer exam performance and evaluated for correlation between Aquifer exam performance and clinical evaluation scores in order to gather insight into the validity of each type of assessment with respect to one another.

METHODS

We analyzed de-identified data from 750 medical students between the academic years of 2016 to 2017 and 2019 to 2020. Individual Aquifer exam scores were compared to individual clinical performance scores. Differences in exam performance before and after the transition to pass/fail were investigated with a two-sample t-test and Cohen's d for effect size.

RESULTS

No correlation was found between Aquifer exam scores and clinical performance scores. The mean Aquifer exam score prior to the transition to pass/fail was 80.02 ± 7.51 while the mean after the exam was made pass/fail was 77.8 ± 7.42. This difference was statistically significant ( P < .001) with a Cohen's d (effect size) of 0.297.

CONCLUSIONS

A lack of correlation between the Aquifer exam scores and clinical performance scores was found. There was a small yet statistically significant decrease in Aquifer exam scores after the change to pass/fail; it is not clear if this represents a meaningful decrease in learning by students.
Masters of mankind: Negotiations, local powers and assessments for land acquisition for industrialisation in West Bengal
Authors: Dey Biswas Sattwick
Published: November 2023

In the 18th century, Adam Smith, the father of modern economics, observed the power of existing capitalists (landlords/merchants) on economy and land issues. While describing the feudal relationships between lord and serf, Smith observed, “All for ourselves and nothing for other people seems ... have been the vile maxim of the masters of mankind.” Even though centuries have passed and in India, the relationship between the landlords, caste and sharecroppers does not follow the typical exploitative condition of 18th-century serfdom, the power of legal ownership encourages the landlords to imitate “the vile maxim of the masters of mankind”. We investigate the role of “power” in manipulating land acquisition-related impact assessments in practice as an imitation of the vile maxim. We empirically examine this assumption with the two land acquisition cases, i.e. Salboni and Singur, West Bengal, India. The empirical study suggests how the vile maxim reproduces the existing injustices during land acquisitions in India.
An Evaluation of the Barrier and Durability Performance of Reusable Level 2 Isolation Gowns Over Their Promoted Service Life
Authors: Easter Elizabeth , Dabbain Susan
Published: November 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the health and safety of healthcare workers as the supply of personal protective equipment was severely limited at the pandemic’s beginning. Some healthcare facilities took the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations to shift from disposable personal protective equipment to reusable, as an option for extending the life of their personal protective equipment during the pandemic. This research investigated Level 2 isolation gowns to determine whether they met or exceeded the protection specifications of ANSI/AAMI PB70:2012 and the American Society for Testing and Materials: ASTM F3352-19 Standard Specification for Isolation Gowns Intended for Use in Healthcare Facilities. The overall findings show that commercially available reusable gowns initially met the ANSI/AAMI PB70:2012 and ASTM F3352 standards. Out of the six sample groups, gowns in one group failed the ANSI/AAMI PB70:2012 specifications before the end of their intended lifecycle. All gowns met the specifications for durability in ASTM F3352-19, but further research showed tear strength after laundering weakened substantially. The current standard for Level 2 isolation gowns is protecting the lives of healthcare workers. However, the specifications could be improved by ANSI/AAMI by evaluating the performance after laundering instead of as new. Durability specifications would be improved by increasing the requirements for reusable gowns.
An Exploration of the Psycho-sexual Aspects of the Motivation to Avoid Success and its Association with Gender Roles and Work-Family Conflict Using a Mixed Method
Authors: Moulik Shovona Bhattacharya , Ray Deepshikha
Published: November 2023

Aims:

The current study attempted to explore how gender roles and work-family conflict contribute to fear of success in urban, married, middle-aged, and working women.

Materials and Methods:

A mixed method was used in which “gender role,” “work family conflict,” and “fear of success” were measured using the Indian Gender Role Identity Scale, 1 the Work Family Conflict Scale (Carlson et al.), 2 and the Fear of Success Scale (Canavan-Gumpert et.al.), 3 respectively, followed by an interview of 10 voluntary participants for a period of 30 min each.

Analysis:

A stepwise multiple regression analysis of work-family conflict and gender roles on fear of success was computed as part of the quantitative analysis of the data. Open codes and focus codes were computed as part of the qualitative analysis of the data.

Results and Conclusion:

The results of quantitative data analysis revealed that both dimensions of “work-family conflict,” i.e., “time-based work to family” and “time based family to work,” are significant predictors of “fear of success” and that there is a significant negative correlation between “masculinity” and “fear of success.” The analysis of qualitative data revealed that the majority of the participants have talked about unpleasant consequences related to success in or being engaged in a formal job. The findings have been discussed in the context of the internalization of societal expectations and implicit coercions in urban, middle-aged, and married working women.
Least cost path analysis as an objective and automatic method to define the main fault trace for probabilistic fault displacement hazard analyses
Authors: Thomas Kate , Milliner Christopher , Chen Rui , Chiou Brian , Dawson Timothy , Petersen Mark
Published: November 2023

A main goal of probabilistic fault displacement hazard analysis (PFDHA) is to quantify displacement along and across an identified active fault that poses a hazard to nearby infrastructure such as roads, bridges, pipelines, and telecommunications. PFDHA relies on empirical models developed using data sets of displacement measurements and mapped surface rupture traces compiled from past global surface rupturing earthquakes by field surveys or remote sensing. However, current approaches to determine the location of the main rupture trace are subjective and lack repeatability due to different geological interpretations of the often complex network of mapped rupture traces. This subjectivity makes it difficult to compile and analyze displacement measurements and ruptures from multiple events in a consistent manner. This study provides an objective and repeatable approach to define a main rupture trace that can be applied to either field or remote sensing data. The new approach defined here can be used in developing rupture trace connectivity and geometry for use in displacement model developments and for use in objectively defining the input fault trace for assessing fault displacement hazard.
A Service Evaluation of Telesonography® and the Measured Outcomes, Within an Under-Resourced Obstetrics and Gynecology Practice
Authors: Manley Erin , Buentipo Ben , Blair Amber , Dilly Alison , Switzky Andy
Published: November 2023

Objective:

To evaluate the effectiveness of a tech-enabled telesonography service in an under-resourced obstetrics and gynecology (OB/Gyn) clinic.

Materials and Methods:

Quantitative data were collected for each sonographic exam to determine its efficiency and accuracy. A survey was also offered to measure patient satisfaction. Data were collected and analyzed to produce early trends following the implementation of the service.

Results:

The tech-enabled telesonography service decreased patient exam and report turnaround times in an under-resourced OB/Gyn clinic, which correlated with decreases in the time until the next appointment and the clearing of scheduling backlogs. Importantly, this efficiency was achieved without forfeiting diagnostic accuracy or patient satisfaction.

Conclusion:

This project demonstrated that the service provided reduced wait times for this under-resourced clinic without sacrificing diagnostic accuracy.
Safety, feasibility and effectiveness of the remotely delivered Pulmonary Hypertension and Home-Based (PHAHB) physical activity intervention
Authors: McCormack Ciara , Kehoe Brona , Cullivan Sarah , McCaffrey Noel , Gaine Sean , McCullagh Brian , McCarren Andrew , Hardcastle Sarah J. , Moyna Niall M.
Published: November 2023

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a heterogeneous condition, associated with a high symptom burden and a substantial loss of exercise capacity. Despite prior safety concerns regarding physical exertion, exercise training as a supportive therapy is now recommended for PH patients. Currently, most programmes are hospital-based, which limits accessibility. There is a need to provide alternative approaches for physical activity engagement for PH patients. The aim of this research was to develop, implement and evaluate the safety, feasibility and effectiveness of home-based physical activity intervention for PH.

Methods

An entirely remotely delivered home-based physical activity intervention underpinned by behaviour change theory and informed by end-users, was assessed using a single-arm feasibility study design. Participants (n=19; 80% female) with a mean±sdage of 49.9±15.9 years with a diagnosis of PH undertook a 10-week, home-based physical activity intervention with induction training, support materials, telecommunication support, health coaching, exercise training and assessments, all remotely delivered. Training involved respiratory training along with a combination of aerobic and resistance exercises.

Results

The intervention was deemed safe as no adverse events were reported. A high level of feasibility was demonstrated as the protocol was implemented as intended, sustained a high level of engagement and adherence and was well accepted by participants in terms of enjoyment and utility. There was a significant improvement in functional capacity, physical activity, exercise self-efficacy and quality of life, between baseline and post-training.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that an entirely remotely delivered home-based physical activity programme is safe, feasible and effective in improving functional capacity, physical activity and quality of life in PH patients.
Two is better than one: the double diffusion technique in classifying heart failure
Authors: Zavorsky Gerald S. , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: November 2023

Background

Heart failure (HF) is a chronic condition in which the heart does not pump enough blood to meet the body's demands. Diffusing capacity of the lung for nitric oxide (DLNO) and carbon monoxide (DLCO) may be used to classify patients with HF, asDLNOandDLCOare lung function measurements that reflect pulmonary gas exchange. Our objectives were to determine 1) ifDLNOadded toDLCOtesting predicts HF better thanDLCOalone and 2) whether the binary classification of HF is better whenDLNOz-scores are combined withDLCOz-scores than usingDLCOz-scores alone.

Methods

This was a retrospective secondary data analysis in 140 New York Heart Association Class II HF patients (ejection fraction <40%) and 50 patients without HF. z-scores forDLNO,DLCOandDLNO+DLCOwere created from reference equations from three articles. The model with the lowest Bayesian Information Criterion was the best predictive model. Binary HF classification was evaluated with the Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC).

Results

The top two of 12 models were combined z-score models. The highest MCC (0.51) was from combined z-score models. At most, only 32% of the variance in the odds of having HF was explained by combined z-scores.

Conclusions

Combined z-scores explained 32% of the variation in the likelihood of an individual having HF, which was higher than models usingDLNOorDLCOz-scores alone. Combined z-score models had a moderate ability to classify patients with HF. We recommend using the NO–CO double diffusion technique to assess gas exchange impairment in those suspected of HF.
CD44-specific short peptide A6 boosts cellular uptake and anticancer efficacy of PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Yazdian-Robati Rezvan , Amiri Ehsan , Kamali Hossein , Khosravi Aysun , Taghdisi Seyed Mohammad , Jaafari Mahmoud Reza , Mashreghi Mohammad , Moosavian Seyedeh Alia
Published: November 2023

Although liposomes have improved patient safety and the pharmacokinetic profile of free drugs, their therapeutic efficacy has only shown marginal improvement. The incorporation of active-targeted ligands to enhance cellular uptake has shown promise in preclinical studies. However, no active-targeted liposomes have successfully translated into clinical use thus far. This study aimed to evaluate the targeting ability and antitumor efficiency of A6, a specific short peptide (KPSSPPEE) when incorporated into PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD). The results revealed significantly enhanced cellular uptake. The cytotoxicity of the formulations was determined by 3 h and 6 h incubation of formulations with cells, followed by 48 h incubation to evaluate the targeted ability of the formulations and the results indicated the higher cytotoxicity of A6-PLD (IC50 of 7.52 µg/mL after 6 h incubation) in the CD44 overexpressing C26 cell line compared to non-targeted PLD (IC50 of 15.02 µg/mL after 6 h incubation). However, CD44-negative NIH-3T3 cells exhibited similar uptake and in vitro cytotoxicity for both A6-PLD (IC50 of 38.05 µg/mL) and PLD (IC50 of 34.87 µg/mL). In animal studies, A6-PLD demonstrated significantly higher tumor localization of doxorubicin (Dox) (~ 8 and 15 µg Dox/g tumor for 24 and 48 after injection) compared to PLD (~ 6 and 8 µg Dox/g tumor for 24 and 48 after injection), resulting in effective inhibition of tumor growth. The median survival time (MST) for Dextrose 5% was 10, PLD was 14 and A6-PLD was 22 days. In conclusion, A6-PLD, a simple and effective targeted liposome formulation, exhibits high potential for clinical translation. Its improved targetability and antitumor efficacy make it a promising candidate for future clinical applications.
Heterogeneity in convergence behaviour of the single-step SNP-BLUP model across different effects and animal groups
Authors: Słomian Dawid , Żukowski Kacper , Szyda Joanna
Published: November 2023

Background

The single-step model is becoming increasingly popular for national genetic evaluations of dairy cattle due to the benefits that it offers such as joint breeding value estimation for genotyped and ungenotyped animals. However, the complexity of the model due to a large number of correlated effects can lead to significant computational challenges, especially in terms of accuracy and efficiency of the preconditioned conjugate gradient method used for the estimation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of pedigree depth on the model's overall convergence rate as well as on the convergence of different components of the model, in the context of the single-step single nucleotide polymorphism best linear unbiased prediction (SNP-BLUP) model.

Results

The results demonstrate that the dataset with a truncated pedigree converged twice as fast as the full dataset. Still, both datasets showed very high Pearson correlations between predicted breeding values. In addition, by comparing the top 50 bulls between the two datasets we found a high correlation between their rankings. We also analysed the specific convergence patterns underlying different animal groups and model effects, which revealed heterogeneity in convergence behaviour. Effects of SNPs converged the fastest while those of genetic groups converged the slowest, which reflects the difference in information content available in the dataset for those effects. Pre-selection criteria for the SNP set based on minor allele frequency had no impact on either the rate or pattern of their convergence. Among different groups of individuals, genotyped animals with phenotype data converged the fastest, while non-genotyped animals without own records required the largest number of iterations.

Conclusions

We conclude that pedigree structure markedly impacts the convergence rate of the optimisation which is more efficient for the truncated than for the full dataset.
CoDock-Ligand: combined template-based docking and CNN-based scoring in ligand binding prediction
Authors: Pang Mingwei , He Wangqiu , Lu Xufeng , She Yuting , Xie Liangxu , Kong Ren , Chang Shan
Published: November 2023

For ligand binding prediction, it is crucial for molecular docking programs to integrate template-based modeling with a precise scoring function. Here, we proposed the CoDock-Ligand docking method that combines template-based modeling and the GNINA scoring function, a Convolutional Neural Network-based scoring function, for the ligand binding prediction in CASP15. Among the 21 targets, we obtained successful predictions in top 5 submissions for 14 targets and partially successful predictions for 4 targets. In particular, for the most complicated target, H1114, which contains 56 metal cofactors and small molecules, our docking method successfully predicted the binding of most ligands. Analysis of the failed systems showed that the predicted receptor protein presented conformational changes in the backbone and side chains of the binding site residues, which may cause large structural deviations in the ligand binding prediction. In summary, our hybrid docking scheme was efficiently adapted to the ligand binding prediction challenges in CASP15.
Mitochondrial genome comparison and phylogenetic analysis of Dendrobium (Orchidaceae) based on whole mitogenomes
Authors: Wang Mengting , Yu Wenhui , Yang Jiapeng , Hou Zhenyu , Li Chao , Niu Zhitao , Zhang Benhou , Xue Qingyun , Liu Wei , Ding Xiaoyu
Published: November 2023

Background

Mitochondrial genomes are essential for deciphering the unique evolutionary history of seed plants. However, the rules of their extreme variation in genomic size, multi-chromosomal structure, and foreign sequences remain unresolved in most plant lineages, which further hindered the application of mitogenomes in phylogenetic analyses.

Results

Here, we took Dendrobium (Orchidaceae) which shows the great divergence of morphology and difficulty in species taxonomy as the study focus. We first de novo assembled two complete mitogenomes of Dendrobium wilsonii and Dendrobium henanense that were 763,005 bp and 807,551 bp long with multichromosomal structures. To understand the evolution of Dendrobium mitogenomes, we compared them with those of four other orchid species. The results showed great variations of repetitive and chloroplast-derived sequences in Dendrobium mitogenomes. Moreover, the intergenic content of Dendrobium mitogenomes has undergone expansion during evolution. We also newly sequenced mitogenomes of 26 Dendrobium species and reconstructed phylogenetic relationships of Dendrobium based on genomic mitochondrial and plastid data. The results indicated that the existence of chloroplast-derived sequences made the mitochondrial phylogeny display partial characteristics of the plastid phylogeny. Additionally, the mitochondrial phylogeny provided new insights into the phylogenetic relationships of Dendrobium species.

Conclusions

Our study revealed the evolution of Dendrobium mitogenomes and the potential of mitogenomes in deciphering phylogenetic relationships at low taxonomic levels.
Coexistence of early gastric cancer and benign submucosal lesions mimic invasive cancer: a retrospective multicenter experience
Authors: Yang Huawei , Li Zhen , Wei Zhi , Li Guodong , Li Yi , Wu Shanbin , Ji Rui
Published: November 2023

Objective

To present a study to identify the characteristics of coexisting early gastric cancer (EGC) and benign submucosal lesions, with the aim of reducing the adverse consequences of overdiagnosis and overtreatment.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we searched the endoscopic databases of three tertiary centers. We screened of patients suspected of early gastric cancer submucosal infiltration by conventional endoscopy and ultimately selected for endoscopic submucosal dissection treatment after endoscopic ultrasonography and magnifying endoscopy with narrow-band imaging examination. Patients with coexisting EGC and benign submucosal lesions in histological sections were included. Clinical data and endoscopic images were reviewed. To evaluate the precision of endoscopists’ diagnoses for this type of lesion, eight endoscopists with different experiences were recruited to judge the infiltration depth of these lesions and analyze the accuracy rate.

Results

We screened 520 patients and retrospectively identified 18 EGC patients with an invasive cancer-like morphology. The most common lesion site was the cardia (12/18, 66.67%). The coexisting submucosal lesions could be divided into solid (5/18, 27.78%) and cystic (13/18, 72.22%). The most common type of submucosal lesion was gastritis cystica profunda (12/18, 66.67%), whereas leiomyoma was the predominant submucosal solid lesion (3/18, 16.67%). Ten (55.56%) patients < underwent endoscopic ultrasonography; submucosal lesions were definitively diagnosed in 6 patients (60.00%). The accuracy of judgement of the infiltration depth was significantly lower in cases of coexistence of EGC with benign submucosal lesions (EGC-SML) than in EGC (38.50% versus 65.60%, P = 0.0167). The rate of over-diagnosis was significantly higher within the EGC-SML group compared to the EGC group (59.17% versus 10.83%, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

We should be aware of the coexistence of EGC and benign submucosal lesions, the most common of which is early cardiac-differentiated cancer with gastritis cystica profunda.
Real-life experiences with galcanezumab and predictors for treatment response in Turkey
Authors: Yalinay Dikmen Pınar , Baykan Betül , Uludüz Derya , Özge Aynur , Ilgaz Aydınlar Elif , Polat Burcu , Karlı Necdet , Tepe Nermin , Çelebisoy Neşe , Ergin Toktaş Hayal , Niflioğlu Buket , Karacı Rahşan , Mayda Domaç Füsun , Uludüz Ezgi , Erdogan Soyukibar Tuba , Öksüz Nevra , Ertaş Mustafa
Published: November 2023

Background

The complexity of clinical practice extends far beyond the controlled settings of trials, and there is a need for real-world studies aimed at identifying which patients will respond to anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies in different countries. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of galcanezumab in treating migraine in a real-life setting in Turkey, as well as identify predictors of treatment response.

Methods

A total of 476 patients who diagnosed with migraine according to ICHD-3 criteria and treated with galcanezumab by headache specialists were voluntarily participated in this cross-sectional study. Galcanezumab is indicated for the prevention of migraine in adults who have at least 4 monthly migraine days in Turkey. All patients filled out a survey on Google Form that comprised 54 questions, addressing various aspects such as demographics, migraine characteristics, previous use of acute symptomatic medication, failures with preventive drug classes, comorbidities, most bothersome symptoms, as well as the interictal burden of migraine.

Results

Among the participants, 89.3% reported that galcanezumab treatment was beneficial for them. A decrease in the frequency (80.0%), severity (85.7%), and acute medication usage for migraine attacks (71.4%) was reported with galcanezumab treatment. An adverse effect related to galcanezumab was reported in 16.3% of cases, but no serious adverse reactions were observed. Remarkably, 14.3% of participants reported no longer experiencing any headaches, and 18.9% did not require any acute treatment while receiving galcanezumab treatment. A logistic regression model showed that male gender, lack of ictal nausea, and previous failure of more than 2 prophylactic agents may predict the non-responders.

Conclusions

The first large series from Turkey showed that galcanezumab treatment is safe and effective in most of the patients diagnosed with migraine by headache experts in the real-life setting. Patients reported a significant decrease in both ictal and interictal burden of migraine and expressed satisfaction with this treatment.
A novel clinically significant prostate cancer prediction system with multiparametric MRI and PSA: P.Z.A. score
Authors: Chen Zongxin , Zhang Jun , Jin Di , Wei Xuedong , Qiu Feng , Wang Ximing , Zhao Xiaojun , Pu Jinxian , Hou Jianquan , Huang Yuhua , Huang Chen
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to establish and validate a new diagnosis model called P.Z.A. score for clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa).

Methods

The demographic and clinical characteristics of 956 patients were recorded. Age, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), free/total PSA (f/tPSA), PSA density (PSAD), peripheral zone volume ratio (PZ-ratio), and adjusted PSAD of PZ (aPSADPZ) were calculated and subjected to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The nomogram was established, and discrimination abilities of the new nomogram were verified with a calibration curve and area under the ROC curve (AUC). The clinical benefits of P.Z.A. score were evaluated by decision curve analysis and clinical impact curves. External validation of the model using the validation set was also performed.

Results

The AUCs of aPSADPZ, age, PSA, f/tPSA, PSAD and PZ-ratio were 0.824, 0.672, 0.684, 0.715, 0.792 and 0.717, respectively. The optimal threshold of P.Z.A. score was 0.41. The nomogram displayed excellent net benefit and better overall calibration for predicting the occurrence of csPCa. In addition, the number of patients with csPCa predicted by P.Z.A. score was in good agreement with the actual number of patients with csPCa in the high-risk threshold. The validation set provided better validation of the model.

Conclusion

P.Z.A. score (including PIRADS(P), aPSADPZ(Z) and age(A)) can increase the detection rate of csPCa, which may decrease the risk of misdiagnosis and reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies. P.Z.A. score contains data that is easy to obtain and is worthy of clinical replication.
Body image and behavioural and emotional difficulties in German children and adolescents
Authors: Krause Lea , Poulain Tanja , Kiess Wieland , Vogel Mandy
Published: November 2023

Background

Behavioural and emotional difficulties might play an important role in the development of body image disturbances, which represent serious risk factors for eating disorders or depression. The present study provides a detailed overview on body image disturbances and several behavioural and emotional difficulties (differences between gender, age, and weight status) and their inter-relations in German children and adolescents.

Methods

Data on body image disturbances, assessed through a Figure Rating Scale, and on behavioural and emotional difficulties, assessed through Goodman’s Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), were available for 5255 observations of 1982 German children and adolescents aged 8 to 18 years from the LIFE Child study, based in Leipzig, Germany. Associations were investigated using multiple logistic regression. Each association was checked for interaction with gender, age, and weight status.

Results

Boys reported more behavioural difficulties than girls, while girls reported more emotional difficulties. Gender, age and weight status were related to behavioural and emotional difficulties as well as body image disturbances. Individuals with fewer difficulties were more satisfied with their own body. Children and adolescents who desired to be larger showed more prosocial behaviour problems, conduct and emotional problems and more signs of hyperactivity. Those, who desired to be thinner showed more problems in all SDQ-subscales. A more accurate body size perception was associated with fewer behavioural and emotional difficulties. Children and adolescents who overestimated their body size showed more prosocial behaviour and emotional problems. Underestimation one’s body size was associated with more signs of hyperactivity.

Conclusion

The current findings highlight the importance of raising the awareness about the association between behavioural and emotional difficulties and body image disturbances in children and adolescents to prevent negative outcomes.
Impact of dog and/or cat ownership on functional constipation at 3 years of age: the Japan Environment and Children’s study
Authors: Motoki Noriko , Inaba Yuji , Toubou Hirokazu , Hasegawa Kohei , Shibazaki Takumi , Tsukahara Teruomi , Nomiyama Tetsuo ,   the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS) Group, Kamijima Michihiro , Yamazaki Shin , Ohya Yukihiro , Kishi Reiko , Yaegashi Nobuo , Hashimoto Koichi , Mori Chisato , Ito Shuichi , Yamagata Zentaro , Inadera Hidekuni , Nakayama Takeo , Sobue Tomotaka , Shima Masayuki , Nakamura Hiroshige , Suganuma Narufumi , Kusuhara Koichi , Katoh Takahiko
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This investigation assessed the impact of dog and/or cat ownership during infancy on the presence of functional constipation (FC) at 3 years of age.

Methods

The fixed data of 73,936 singleton births from a large national birth cohort study commencing in 2011 were used to identify FC as estimated by Rome III at 3 years of age. Multiple logistic regression analysis was employed to search for correlations between FC development and dog and/or cat ownership in early childhood.

Results

A total of 8,459 toddlers (11.6%) met the Rome III criteria for FC at 3 years of age. Overall, 57,264 (77.5%) participants had never owned a dog or cat. We identified 7,715 (10.4%) infant-period owners, 1,295 (1.8%) current owners, and 7,762 (10.5%) long-term owners. Multivariate analysis showed that infant-period ownership remained significantly associated with the risk of developing FC at 3 years of age after adjusting for covariates (adjusted OR [95% CI] 1.09 [1.01–1.19] based on non-ownership).

Conclusions

This Japanese large nationwide survey uncovered a possible adverse effect of infant-period dog and/or cat ownership prior to 6 months of age on FC status at 3 years of age.
Assessing the impact of socioeconomic status on incidental lung nodules at an urban safety net hospital
Authors: Fernandes Mateus , Milla Cristian , Gubran Ahmed , Barrazueta Sandra , Altonen Brian , DiVittis Anthony ,   Woodhull Resident Research Team, Rashmi Prama , Bess Olva , Asif Haris , Nwachukwu Ifediba , Aroyewun Opeyemi , Martinez Alberto , Kuperberg Stephen
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Lower socioeconomic status has been identified as an emerging risk factor for health disparities, including lung cancer outcomes. Most research investigating these outcomes includes patients from formal lung cancer screening programs. There is a paucity of studies assessing the relationship between socioeconomic status and incidental lung nodules. This study aimed to investigate the association between socioeconomic status and the size of incidental lung nodules on initial presentation at an urban safety net hospital, which did not have a formal lung cancer screening program or incidental lung nodule program.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients with incidental lung nodules on CT chest imaging who were referred from primary care to a pulmonology clinic at a safety net hospital. Patients with incomplete nodule characteristics information were excluded. Data on demographics, comorbidities, smoking history, insurance type, immigration status, and geographical factors were collected. Less commonly studied determinants such as crime index, cost of living, and air quality index were also assessed. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess relationships between nodule size and socioeconomic determinants.

Results

Out of 3,490 patients with chest CT scans, 268 patients with ILNs were included in the study. 84.7% of patients represented racial or ethnic minorities, and most patients (67.8%) had federal insurance. Patients with non-commercial insurance were more likely to have larger, inherently higher-risk nodules (> 8 mm) compared to those with commercial insurance (OR 2.18, p 0.01). Patients from areas with higher unemployment rates were also less likely (OR 0.75, p 0.04) to have smaller nodules (< 6 mm). Patients representing racial or ethnic minorities were also more likely to have nodules > 8 mm (OR 1.6, p 0.24), and less likely to have nodules < 6 mm (OR 0.6, p 0.32), however, these relationships were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

This study found that lower socioeconomic status, indicated by having non-commercial insurance, was associated with larger incidental lung nodule size on initial presentation. While it is established that socioeconomic status is associated with disparities in lung cancer screening, these findings suggest that inequalities may also be present in those with incidental lung nodules. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and develop interventions to address these disparities in incidental lung nodule evaluation and improve outcomes.
Clinical features and risk factors of plastic bronchitis caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children
Authors: Yang Lei , Zhang Yuyan , Shen Changqing , Lu Zhouhua , Hou Tongshu , Niu Fenghai , Wang Yuzhong , Ning Jun , Liu Ruihan
Published: November 2023

Background

We analyzed the clinical characteristics of children with plastic bronchitis (PB) caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) and explored its risk factors.

Methods

We prospectively analyzed clinical data of children with MP pneumonia (MPP) treated with fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FB). Patients were classified into a PB and non-PB group. General information, clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, results of computed tomography scan, and FB findings were compared between groups. We conducted statistical analysis of risk factors for developing PB.

Results

Of 1169 children who had MPP and were treated with FB, 133 and 1036 were in the PB and non-PB groups, respectively. There were no significant differences in sex, age, and incident season between groups (P > 0.05). The number of children in the PB group decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Compared with children in the non-PB group, those in the PB group had longer duration of hospitalization, increased levels of neutrophil (N), C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST); lower levels of lymphocyte (L) and platelet (PLT); and higher incidence of lack of appetite, decreased breath sounds, single lobar infiltrate, pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, mucosal erosion and/or necrosis, and bronchial embolization. L levels and pleural effusion were identified as risk factors in multivariate logistic regression.

Conclusions

Children with PB caused by MPP had a strong and local inflammatory response. L levels and pleural effusion were independent risk factors of PB with MPP in children. Our findings will help clinicians identify potential PB in pediatric patients for early and effective intervention.
A comparison of maxillofacial growth in Chinese children with isolated cleft palate treated with two different palatoplasty techniques without relaxing incisions: a preliminary study
Authors: Elayah Sadam Ahmed , Yin Jiayi , Al-Gumaei Waseem Saleh , Younis Hamza , Sakran Karim Ahmed , Tang Ziwei , Mashrah Mubarak Ahmed , Lubamba Grace Paka , Wu Min , Li Yang , Shi Bing
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess the maxillofacial growth of patients with isolated cleft palate following the Sommerlad-Furlow modified technique and compare it with the effect of the Sommerlad technique.

Study design

A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Methods

A total of 90 participants, 60 patients with non-syndromic isolated soft and hard cleft palate (ISHCP) underwent primary palatoplasty without relaxing incision (30 patients received the Sommerlad-Furlow modified (S-F) technique and 30 received Sommerlad (S) technique). While the other 30 were healthy noncleft participants with skeletal class I pattern (C group). All participants had lateral cephalometric radiographs at least 5 years old age. All the study variables were measured by using stable landmarks, including 11 linear and 9 angular variants.

Results

The means age at collection of cephalograms were 6.03 ± 0.80 (5–7 yrs) in the S group, 5.96 ± 0.76 (5–7 yrs) in the S-F group, and 5.91 ± 0.87 (5–7 yrs) in the C group. Regarding cranial base, the results showed that there were no statistically significant differences between the three groups in S–N and S–N-Ba. The S group had a significantly shortest S-Ba than the S-F & C groups (P = 0.01), but there was no statistically significant difference between S-F and C groups (P = 0.80). Regarding skeletal maxillary growth, the S group had significantly shorter Co-A, S- PM and significantly less SNA angle than the C group (P =  < 0.01). While there was no significant difference between S-F & C groups (P = 0.42). The S group had significantly more MP-SN inclination than the C group (P =  < 0.01). Regarding skeletal mandibular growth, there were no statistically significant differences in all linear and angular mandibular measurements between the three groups, except Co-Gn of the S group had a significantly shorter length than the C group (P = 0.05). Regarding intermaxillary relation, the S-F group had no significant differences in Co-Gn—Co-A and ANB as compared with the C group. The S group had significantly less ANB angle than S-F & C groups (P = 0.01 & P =  < 0.01). In addition, there were no significant differences in all angular occlusal measurements between the three groups.

Conclusion

As a preliminary report, Sommerlad-Furlow modified technique showed that maxillary positioning in the face tended to be better, and the intermaxillary relationship was more satisfactory than that in Sommerlad technique when compared them in healthy noncleft participants.
Associations of oral health status and swallowing function with cognitive impairment in the aging population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Yong , Li Canyang , Fan Yongmei , Jiao Lili , Silverman Matthew , Ishimaru Masashi , Wang Jing , Van Pelt Alice J. , Wang Rumi
Published: November 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships of oral health status and swallowing function with cognitive impairment in community-dwelling older adults from Changsha, Hunan Province, China.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed the data of 215 participants aged ≥ 50 years which were retrieved from the Xiangya and Panasonic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) Study, a community-based study conducted among the residents of the urban areas of Hunan province in China. Demographic information of all participants was collected. We determined oral function by evaluating oral hygiene, oral dryness, occlusal force, tongue pressure, chewing function, swallowing function, remaining teeth number, and other indicators. The mini-mental state examination (MMSE) was used to screen for cognitive function. The relationship between each oral function evaluation item and cognitive function was investigated using correlation analysis. The associations between oral health status and swallowing function with cognitive impairment were inferred using multiple regression analysis.

Results

The general characteristics of participants showed statistically significant correlation coefficients in number of teeth remaining (p = 0.003) and number of teeth lost (p < 0.0001). Almost half of the 25 participants (48%) were aged from 70–80 years. Only 25 older adults (11.6% of the participants) were determined to have cognitive impairment by MMSE sores less than 24. Tongue pressure in male participants was the only significant independent variable that was associated with cognitive impairment (p = 0.01971). The results indicate that male participants with lower MMSE scores had a relative deficiency in tongue pressure.

Conclusions

In this cross-sectional study, the oral health status and swallowing function of participants were in relatively good condition and showed low correlations with cognitive impairment. However, lower tongue pressures were associated with lower MMSE scores in males, indicating it could serve as a novel oral function index for evaluating cognitive impairment.