bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A call for academic pragmatic clinical trials to address open questions in migraine prevention
Authors: Sacco Simona , De Santis Federico , Onofri Agnese , Rosignoli Chiara , Nabaei Ghaemeh , Foschi Matteo , Ornello Raffaele
Published: November 2024

The migraine treatment landscape has seen significant advancements in recent years, including the introduction of novel preventive agents specifically targeting the disease. These new treatments offer improved efficacy and tolerability, potentially addressing the issue of poor treatment adherence commonly observed with conventional preventatives. In this context, pragmatic trials emerge as a critical tool for advancing migraine care, offering a real-world approach to evaluating open clinical questions at the same time as avoiding the biases of real-world observational evidence. By prioritizing external validity and patient-centered outcomes, pragmatic trials provide valuable insights into the advantages of new treatments in improving migraine care. Possible applications of pragmatic trials in migraine research include head-to-head comparisons, evaluation of combination therapies, assessment of treatment sequences and switch, testing the added value of patient-reported outcomes, investigation of long-term effectiveness and on optimal treatment duration, understanding the role of preventive treatments in altering the course of migraine and preventing progression, and cost-effectiveness analyses. Pragmatic trials allow for the assessment of interventions in diverse patient populations and healthcare settings, enhancing the generalizability of findings and informing evidence-based clinical practice. As such, pragmatic trials represent an excellent tool to bridge the gap between placebo-controlled trials and real-world practice and should receive consideration for funding, especially by public institutions such as universities, national health services, and charities.
Low Lesion Clearance Rates in Neurocysticercosis: Is It Time to Review Guidelines?
Authors: Barman Prabal , Sankhyan Naveen , Suthar Renu , Vyas Sameer , Saini Lokesh , Saini Arushi , Sahu Jitendra K
Published: November 2024

Background

The standard treatment guidelines of neurocysticercosis have been described as per computed tomography (CT)–based studies. We aimed to prospectively study if posttreatment magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) clearance rates of neurocysticercosis were like those reported in literature using CT.

Methods

A prospective observational study in newly diagnosed children with neurocysticercosis was undertaken. Children were treated with antihelminthics and steroids and followed up after 6 months. The primary objective was to study the proportion of children with single-lesion neurocysticercosis who were in radiologic resolution at 6 months and clinical remission (seizure-free for the preceding 3 months).

Results

Eighty of 128 consecutive children screened were included (single lesion, 65; multiple lesions, 15). Seventy-two children were evaluated at 6 months. Seizure recurrence was seen in 5 (6.2%). Brain MRI showed an overall clearance of lesions in 10 (14%) children. In the children with single-lesion neurocysticercosis (65), 59 were followed up at 6 months, and lesions resolved in 9 (15.3%, 95% confidence interval of 6.1-24.4).

Conclusions

In children with single-lesion neurocysticercosis treated with antihelminthics and corticosteroids, the lesion resolution rate is only 15% at 6 months. Thus, there is a need to review old recommendations and use MRI as a standard outcome measure.
Calculating ‘climate migrants’: An emerging topology of power
Authors: Baldwin Andrew , Waters Richard
Published: November 2024

On what basis can it be said that climate change contributes to human migration? What are we to make of new statistical models used to construct the relationship between these two epochal phenomena? This article proposes Collier’s conception of topology to characterize the novel politics of gravity modelling, a technique increasingly used to calculate numeric estimates of ‘climate migrants’. These models do not simply signify a revival or repetition of political sovereignty, nor an affirmation of biopower, but a novel recalibration of power arising in response to the climate crisis. This recalibration signals the early stages of a new topology of power organized around intuitive calculation. To make this claim, the article draws on recent discussions in geography on the relationship between calculation, number and the political to first situate the models within contemporary critical scholarship on climate change and migration. It then examines the models’ statistical logics, in particular how intuition, inference and the incalculable shape three facets of this emerging topology: the correlation of Earth science data with population-level economic data; the calculation of mobile populations; and the unique spatiality at stake in gravity modelling.
Barriers and Facilitators for Help-Seeking Behaviors in British South Asian Women Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sultana Razia , Husain Nusrat , Allen Omolade , Taylor Peter
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to identify the barriers and facilitators for help-seeking behaviors among British South Asian (BSA) women. A cross-sectional qualitative method was applied, among 15 BSA women who have experienced domestic violence (DV). Five overarching themes emerged: survivors’ lack of recognition and realization of abuse, fear of the negative effects of abuse, informal help-seeking support and barriers, formal help-seeking support and barriers, and advice from survivors for developing help-seeking opportunities. These barriers and facilitators were linked to intersectional socialization, which have influenced the help-seeking behaviors of BSA women. This study can be helpful for researchers, policymakers, and service providers in understanding the complications in terms of help-seeking behaviors and facilitators for BSA women who experience DV and to develop culturally appropriate interventions to inspire effective help-seeking strategies for South Asian women who experience DV.
A 14-Year Analysis of Breast Cancer Risk Factors and Its Determinants of Mortality in Rural Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim Azeez Oyemomi , Omonijo Adetunji , Agbesanwa Tosin Anthony , Alabi Ayodele Kamal , Elegbede Olayide Toyin , Olusuyi Kolawole Michael , Yusuf Musah , Afolabi-Obe Eniola Ayoyemi , Erinomo Olagoke , Babalola Olakunle Fatai , Abiyere Henry , Orewole Olayinka Tesleem , Aremu Shuaib Kayode
Published: November 2024

Background:

Research on breast cancer risk factors and mortality is gaining recognition and attention globally; there is need to add more information on its determinants among patients admitted in hospital. Some studies on risk factors and mortality of breast cancer in Nigeria hospitals conducted in the urban and suburban areas have been documented. Therefore, an addition of a study conducted in the setting of a rural health institution is necessary. This study assessed the risk factors and determinants of mortality among patients admitted for breast cancer in rural Southwestern Nigeria.

Methods:

A retrospective observational study was conducted on 260 patients who were admitted for breast cancer between January 2010 and December 2023 using a data form and a standardized information form. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. The risk factors and the determinants of mortality of patients with breast cancer were identified using multivariate regression model.

Results:

The breast cancer risk factors were old age, family history, tobacco smoking, combined oral contraceptives, and hormonal therapy use. The case fatality rate was 38.1%, and its determinants of mortality were patients who were older (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.956; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.341-4.333), obese (AOR, 2.635; 95% CI: 1.485-6.778), stage IV (AOR, 1.895; 95% CI: 1.146-8.9742), mastectomy (AOR, 2.512; 95% CI: 1.003-6.569), discontinued adjuvant chemotherapy (AOR, 1.785; 95% CI: 1.092-4.6311), and yet to commence adjuvant chemotherapy (AOR, 2.568; 95% CI: 1.367-5.002).

Conclusion:

The study revealed that patients with breast cancer were associated with high mortality. Sustained health education to promote early diagnosis, managed co-morbidities, and access to treatment may contribute to reduction in breast cancer mortality in rural Nigeria.
Trauma and imported vulnerability in prison suicides
Authors: Goyes David R.
Published: November 2024

Suicide rates in prison are much higher than in the community. Significant data supports an approach to understanding this phenomenon that sees suicide as the outcome of incarcerated people bringing their vulnerability with them into prison combined with the pain and deprivation they experience on the inside. This article uses a personality development approach to argue that part of prisoners’ imported vulnerability – which puts them at a higher risk of suicide – results from a life trajectory marked by trauma. To this end, I draw on repeat qualitative interviews with 29 prisoners in Latin America who attempted suicide while incarcerated. Based on a study of their life trajectories, I argue that pre-prison trauma plays a role in suicide in prison by shaping prisoners’ personalities to make them more susceptible to negative emotions and reduced tolerance to distress, adversely impacting their modes of approaching and responding to the world.
The expressive injustice of being rich
Authors: Axelsen David V , Nielsen Lasse
Published: November 2024

According to limitarianism, it is morally impermissible to be too rich. We consider three main challenges to limitarianism: the redundancy objection, the inconclusiveness objection, and the commitment objection. As a distributive principle, we find that limitarianism fails to overcome the three objections—even taking recent theoretical innovations into account. Instead, we suggest that the core commitment of limitarianism can be drawn from the excess intuition. It entails that at some point, people's claims to retain wealth become qualitatively different: they become preposterous from the point of view of interpersonal morality and justification. Extreme wealth, we argue, adds a distinctive expressive reason to worry about inequality and insufficiency, compounding these other distributive injustices. In retaining or wasting excess wealth while others have too little, the wealthy send a message of complete disregard for the interests of their co-citizens. They express that their disadvantaged compatriots have a diminished moral standing.
Instructed Response Item Attention Checks in Mixed-mode Questionnaires: Evidence from a Probability-based Mail and Online Panel
Authors: Daikeler Jessica , Roßmann Joss , Bretschi David , Gummer Tobias , Silber Henning
Published: November 2024

Mostly in web surveys, attention checks have been proposed to identify inattentive respondents in self-administered surveys as previous research has argued that low-quality answers may introduce severe biases in data analyses. The increasing popularity of mixing survey modes for conducting probability-based surveys amplifies the need for systematic research on the implementation of attention checks in these survey designs. Our study investigates whether an instructed response item (IRI) can be an adequate predictor of response quality in a self-administered mixed-mode panel survey with a probability-based German general population sample. By doing so, we compare the results of the attention check with those of other response quality indicators. However, while the results for the online respondents were somewhat promising, the mail respondents result suggests that this response quality indicator seems unreliable, so that we cannot recommend using IRIs in general population mixed-mode surveys, which include a mail option.
Intra-Articular Injection of Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Reduces Radiographic Osteoarthritis in an Ovine Model
Authors: Perry Jade , Mennan Claire , Cool Paul , McCarthy Helen S. , Newell Karin , Hopkins Timothy , Hulme Charlotte , Wright Karina T. , Henson Frances M.D. , Roberts Sally
Published: November 2024

Objective

To determine if mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) derived from human umbilical cords (hUC) could reduce degeneration developing when injected into the knee of a large animal model of osteoarthritis (OA).

Design

Ten million culture-expanded UC-MSCs (pooled from 3 human donors) were injected in 50 μL of tissue culture medium into the left stifle joints of 7 sheep whose medial meniscus was transected 4 weeks previously. Seven other sheep had only 50 μL of medium injected as the no treatment “control” group. After 8 weeks the sheep underwent euthanasia, the joints were excised and examined macroscopically, via x-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), both via histology for degenerative and inflammatory changes and immunohistochemically to identify any human cells within the joint tissues. Activity monitoring both before meniscus transection and euthanasia was also undertaken.

Results

There was a significant reduction in the Kellgren–Lawrence x-ray score for joints injected with hUC-MSCs compared with the control joints. Likewise, macroscopic, MRI, synovitis and OARSI histology scores were all lower (better) in the joints injected with hUC-MSCs than in the control arm, but not significantly. Activity levels and synovitis scores were similar in both groups of animals.

Conclusions

hUC-MSCs appear to modify and reduce the development of osteoarthritic changes in the ovine stifle joint after meniscal destabilization, an injury which commonly leads to OA in humans. These results are encouraging for the potential benefit of culture expanded UC-MSCs as an allogeneic cell therapy in patients who may have early OA following a meniscal injury of the knee.
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety, and efficacy of crizanlizumab in patients with sickle cell disease: final results from the phase II SOLACE-adults study
Authors: Kanter Julie , Mennito Sarah , Nair Santosh M. , Manwani Deepa , Kutlar Abdullah , Shah Nirmish , Keefe Deborah , Madhamshetty Hariprasad , Nassin Michele , Reshetnyak Evgeniya , Mendonza Anisha E. , Liles Darla
Published: November 2024

Background:

Crizanlizumab is a novel inhibitor of P-selectin, a key player in multicellular adhesion and inflammatory signaling, that leads to vaso-occlusion in sickle cell disease (SCD).

Objectives:

The SOLACE-adults study evaluated the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics (P-selectin inhibition), safety, and efficacy of crizanlizumab, with or without hydroxyurea/hydroxycarbamide, in patients with SCD.

Design:

Phase II, single-arm, multicenter study.

Methods:

Patients with SCD aged 16–70 years, with ⩾1 vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) within 12 months before screening, received crizanlizumab 5.0 or 7.5 mg/kg intravenous infusion every 4 weeks; dose groups were enrolled sequentially.

Results:

Of 57 patients enrolled, 45 received crizanlizumab 5.0 mg/kg and 12 received 7.5 mg/kg for a median duration of 206 and 170 weeks, respectively. Crizanlizumab concentrations reached maximum levels after a 30-min infusion and remained steady for 6 h, without significant accumulation. P-selectin inhibition was nearly complete for both doses. The median (interquartile range) absolute change in the annualized rate of VOCs leading to healthcare visit from baseline was −0.79 (−3.04, 2.01) in the 5.0 mg/kg group and −0.98 (−1.11, −0.41) in the 7.5 mg/kg group. All patients experienced at least one adverse event (AE), with no apparent differences between the two doses in the frequency and severity of AEs. Grade ⩾3 AEs occurred in 60% of the 5.0 mg/kg group and 58% of the 7.5 mg/kg group. Two patients in the 5.0 mg/kg group and one in the 7.5 mg/kg group had severe crizanlizumab-related infusion-related reactions, which resolved with treatment. No patients developed antibodies against crizanlizumab.

Conclusion:

Crizanlizumab 5.0 and 7.5 mg/kg demonstrated a dose-proportional increase in exposure, sustained P-selectin inhibition, a tolerable safety profile, and a sustained reduction in VOCs leading to healthcare visit. This suggests that crizanlizumab is a useful treatment option for patients with SCD who have experienced VOCs.

Trial Registration:

NCT03264989
Multi-target gene therapy AUP1602-C to improve healing and quality of life for diabetic foot ulcer patients: a phase I, open-label, dose-finding study
Authors: Schindler Christoph , Mikosiński Jacek , Mikosiński Pawel , Kärkkäinen Hanna-Riikka , Sanio Mirka , Kurkipuro Jere , Mierau Igor , Smith Wesley , Vartiainen Aki , Décory Laurent , Weber Dirk , Wirth Thomas , Yrjänheikki Juha , Schellong Sebastian , Samaranayake Haritha
Published: November 2024

Background:

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a common and highly morbid complication of diabetes with high unmet medical needs. AUP1602-C, a topical four-in-one gene therapy medicinal product (GTMP), consisting of a Lactococcus cremoris strain that produces fibroblast growth factor-2, interleukin-4, and colony-stimulating factor-1, is a promising novel treatment for DFU.

Objectives:

The aim of this first-in-human study was to investigate whether AUP1602-C is safe and effective in improving wound healing and quality of life (QoL) in patients with non-healing DFU (nhDFU), and to determine the recommended phase II dose.

Design:

Phase I, single-arm, open-label, uncontrolled, dose escalation study.

Methods:

The study consisted of four cohorts of patients receiving AUP1602-C as a single dose of 2.5 × 105 colony-forming units (CFU)/cm2 ulcer size or as repeated doses between 2.5 × 106 and 2.5 × 108 CFU/cm2 administered 3 times per week for 6 weeks. Within each cohort, a 3 + 3 scheme for monitoring safety, tolerability, and efficacy was applied.

Results:

In total, 16 patients aged 53–80 years were included, 3 each in the safety and low dose, 4 in the medium dose, and 6 in the high-dose cohort. AUP1602-C demonstrated a favorable safety profile with almost 100% dosing compliance. The most frequently reported side effect related to treatment was skin maceration. No serious adverse reactions, systemic toxicity, deaths, or side effects suggestive of immunogenicity, hypersensitivity, allergic reaction, or dose-limiting toxicities related to treatment were reported. No biodistribution events were observed and shedding-related events were rare and did neither show accumulation nor dose dependency. The recommended phase II dose of 2.5 × 108 CFU/cm2 demonstrated complete healing in 83% of patients without recurrence of ulcers during follow-up.

Conclusion:

AUP1602-C was safe and well tolerated and demonstrated dose-dependent efficacy in patients with nhDFU. Data supports further clinical development of AUP1602-C.

Trial registration:

The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04281992) and ClinicalTrialsRegister.eu (2018-003415-22).
Towards Improvement of Heatwave Warnings for Older Adults: The Case of Queensland Australia
Authors: Oberai Mehak , Baker Steven , Bach Aaron J. E. , Forbes Connor , Jackman Ella , Binnewies Sebastian , Xu Zhiwei , Cunningham Sarah , Nghiem Son , Phung Dung , Rutherford Shannon
Published: November 2024

Background:

Heatwave warnings provide crucial information about the nature of the event and the steps that can be taken to mitigate its impact. It is well known that heat events disproportionately impact the health of older adults. Therefore, it’s critical that heatwave warnings reach this population. However, our current understanding of the effectiveness of heatwave warning messages among older Queenslanders is limited.

Methods:

A Queensland wide survey was conducted in 2022 among 547 older adults (≥65 years), aiming to collect information on their perception of heat-related health risk, their knowledge of the existing heatwave warnings, and if they had ever heard of a heatwave warning. Chi-square analysis followed by multinomial or binomial logistic regression was utilized to understand various socio-economic and personal factors that impact the heatwave warning reach to older Queenslanders.

Results:

Only 43% of the respondents had heard a heatwave warning and only 49% of those who heard a warning(s) changed their behavior as a result. The results showed 20% of respondents perceived themselves to be at heat-related health risk, and these individuals were 1.98 times more likely to have heard heatwave warnings. Further, individuals who perceived themselves to be at heat-related health risk were 3.62 times more likely to adopt adaptive measures in response to heatwave warnings.

Implications:

This study suggests that in older adults, higher knowledge and perception of heat-related health risk are associated with higher likelihoods of attention to heatwave warnings and adoption of cooling measures.
Export Spells and the Position of Global Value Chain: Evidence from China’s Industrial Firms
Authors: Li Xiangyi , Tang Ying , Ge Xinting
Published: November 2024

The international division of labor has entered the era of the global value chain (GVC) due to the continuous influence of the scientific and technological revolution. At the same time, sustainable development has taken center stage in the evolution of international trade, and the export spell is an important indicator to measure the sustainable development of export trade. Based on the China customs data, the Chinese industrial enterprises database and the Chinese input-output table from 2000 to 2012, this paper uses the survival analysis method to estimate the enterprises’ export spells and calculate their positions in the GVC through upstreamness. It then investigates the impact of export spells on the position changes of the GVC enterprises. According to the paper, export enterprises near the bottom of the GVC are more vulnerable to extinction. And the duration of enterprises’ export spells has a U-shaped relationship with their positions in the GVC, which means that enterprises will continue to move downstream of the GVC as duration increases, but positions will shift upstream if duration reaches the inflection point. The mechanism test shows that the quality of export products is an important channel through which the duration of enterprises’ export spells influences their GVC positions.
Prolotherapy in the Treatment of Sports-Related Tendinopathies: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Capotosto Salvatore , Nazemi Alireza K. , Komatsu David E. , Penna James
Published: November 2024

Background:

As sports have increased in popularity, the incidence of tendinopathy has also grown dramatically. Nonoperative techniques and treatments used to address these pathologies continue to evolve and improve. One such treatment, prolotherapy (PrT), has become increasingly popular and may provide patients with an alternative nonoperative treatment option.

Purpose:

To review high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that analyzed PrT treatments for the most common tendinopathies. Specifically, this review aims to provide meaningful data regarding methods and outcomes for each condition treated and guide professionals who are considering PrT as a treatment option.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

All RCTs published in English between January 1, 1980, and July 30, 2021, and reported in Embase, Medline, and Web of Science databases were reviewed according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. After the initial search, a total of 3264 articles were identified. Studies analyzing sports medicine injuries and musculoskeletal pathologies using an RCT design were included, while case-reports, case-studies, reviews, and observational studies were excluded. Two independent researchers reviewed the search results, and conflicts were resolved by discussion of inclusion and exclusion criteria among all authors. The articles’ quality was evaluated using the Cochrane tool for assessing the risk of bias. Statistical analysis and graphical representations were performed using SPSS Version 28.00.

Results:

A total of 20 articles, including 1136 patients, met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Overall, in 85% of the studies, PrT was found to be effective in the treatment of tendinopathy. Specifically, PrT was superior to or as effective as the control in 83% (10/12) of the studies analyzing lateral epicondylitis (LE) and rotator cuff (RC) tendinopathies and in 88% (7/8) of the studies on plantar fasciitis (PF), Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD), and Achilles tendinosis (AT). LE, RC, and PF tendinopathies were the most studied conditions (17/20 studies), while AT and OSD were the least studied (3/20 studies). Of the studies, 95% (19/20) used dextrose solutions, with only 1 using solutions of 2.5% phenol, 25% glycerin, and 25% dextrose in sterile water.

Conclusion:

Our systematic review suggests that PrT appears to be a promising alternative treatment for common tendinopathies. Most studies used a hypertonic dextrose solution. Even though further, larger randomized controlled trials comparing PrT with other orthobiologics would be beneficial, based on this review, sports medicine physiciansmay safely pursue PrT as an additional component of conservative treatment.
Stigma About Mental Health in Slovenian First-Year Medical Students
Authors: Vučinić Nina , Holnthaner Rok , Plakolm Erlač Sara , Skokauskas Norbert , Gregorič Kumperščak Hojka
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVE

Stigma surrounding mental health persists as a significant impediment to adequate support and help-seeking behaviors in Slovenia, despite advancements in psychiatric care and education. This study investigates stigma among first-year medical students at the University of Maribor, Slovenia and how the stigma changes after completing a course in mental health literacy.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were first-year medical students at the University of Maribor in the academic year 2023/2024. A total of 116 students participated in the baseline study, with 66 students participating in the follow-up study.

STUDY METHOD

The intervention involved implementing the “Transitions” program, aimed at enhancing mental health literacy and reducing stigma. We conducted a baseline study and a follow-up study, then used Wilcoxon signed rank test for repeated measures to compare the differences in ranks before and after implementation of the program.

FINDINGS

There was a significant reduction in stigma after intervention (Wilcoxon Z = −3.06, P < .01), suggesting a positive impact of the educational program. This reduction aligns with findings from similar programs globally, suggesting the efficacy of educational interventions in mitigating mental health stigma.

CONCLUSIONS

The study emphasizes the importance of integrating mental health education into medical curricula to foster stigma reduction and enhance mental health literacy among future medical doctors.
Organised abandonment in Lebanon's Litani River Basin
Authors: Lawson Owain
Published: November 2024

This paper is a historical political ecology of the organised abandonment of Lebanon's rural margins. It argues that the present ecological catastrophe in the Litani River basin derives from the historical constitution of Lebanon's environmental regulatory apparatus as mediators of flows of capital that generate ecological fragility, or “capitalogenic flows.” In 2021, a massive fish kill brought the Litani River basin's spectacular ecological degradation to global attention. In response, the Litani River Authority (LRA), the Lebanese agency that manages the basin, launched a campaign against “environmental crimes” that concentrated on displacing thousands of Syrian refugees and demolishing their homes. This reflects a rebranding of the LRA, which was founded in 1955 to coordinate a World Bank loan for hydroelectric infrastructure on the Litani. Rather than commodify the water itself for irrigation or drinking—which might entail pollution controls—the Bank monopolised the basin landscape as an energy resource. Prevented from accessing the river, Litani communities have repeatedly reasserted popular sovereignty. The paper situates that history in the context of the institutional formation of Lebanon's environmental regulatory apparatus. Unlike postcolonial countries subjected to neoliberal dispossession after 1980, decades of contested institution-building from Lebanon's origins arrayed the state and its regulatory capacities around capitalogenic flows and the organised abandonment of the country's rural surplus population.
Bridging the AI Divide: Human and Responsible AI in News and Media Industries
Authors: de-Lima-Santos Mathias-Felipe , Jamil Sadia
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing media and journalism, reshaping processes, content, and audience relationship. This editorial report discusses the opportunities and challenges AI brings to these industries raised by this collection of studies, emphasizing the importance of integrating ethical principles and human-centric approaches to its development. These articles examine how AI reshapes content creation, distribution, and audience interaction while addressing the ethical, political, and economic implications of its integration. Key contributions include discussions on the ethical challenges posed by AI—such as bias, transparency, and accountability—and the need for robust governance structures to foster trust and fairness in AI-driven media systems. A recurring theme in this issue is the AI divide, highlighting the disparity in access to AI technologies between the Global North and South. The special issue offers insights into how this divide exacerbates existing inequalities in media production and consumption. It also advocates for interdisciplinary approaches and collaborative efforts to ensure AI's benefits are equitably distributed across geographical and socio-economic contexts. By exploring both the opportunities and perils of AI adoption in media and news industries, this special issue serves as a comprehensive examination of the evolving relationship between AI, media, and society, offering pathways for responsible innovation and inclusive AI adoption worldwide.
Is there a difference in pelvic and femoral morphology in early periprosthetic femoral fracture in cementless short stem total hip arthroplasty via an anterolateral approach?
Authors: Luger Matthias , Feldler Sandra , Schopper Clemens , Gotterbarm Tobias , Stadler Christian
Published: November 2024

Background

The pelvic and femoral morphology are associated with the occurrence of early periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFFs) in cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA). Differences exist depending on the performed approach and implanted stem design. Therefore, this study was conducted to analyze the pelvic and femoral morphology in cementless short stem THA via a minimally-invasive (MIS) anterolateral approach.

Methods

A retrospective, single-center, multi-surgeon, comparative propensity-score matched study of a cohort of 1826 short stem THAs was conducted. A total of 39 PFFs within the first 90 days after surgery was matched on a 2:1 ratio to non-fracture patients. The morphology of the proximal femur was analyzed with canal flare index (CFI), canal-calcar ratio (CCR), canal-bone ratio (CBR), morphological cortical index (MCI), and femoral cortical index (CI). The pelvic morphology was analyzed with ilium–ischial ratio (IR), distance anterior superior iliac spine to the tip of the greater trochanter (AGT). Both groups were analyzed regarding several parameters for femoral and pelvic morphology in non-parametric testing and univariate regression analysis.

Results

A significantly higher AGT was detected in the fracture group (104.5 mm ± 18 versus 97.4 mm ± 9.8; p = 0.016). All other femoral and pelvic parameters did not differ between both groups, also when compared depending on the Vancouver type of the PFF.

Conclusions

The morphology of the proximal femur and the pelvis do not differ in several radiological parameters in patients sustaining a PFF in cementless short stem THA via an anterolateral approach compared with matched non-fracture group. The findings are controversial to other studies with different stem types and approaches. Future studies should focus on analyzing the influence of the pelvic geometry and the shape of the proximal femur in the occurrence of PFFs in different approaches with the same stem type and vice versa.

Level of Evidence Level III case-controlled study
Mortality from external causes in late adolescence and early adulthood by gestational age and sex: a population-based cohort study in four Nordic countries
Authors: Bilsteen Josephine Funck , Opdahl Signe , Pulakka Anna , Finseth Per Ivar , Yin Weiyao , Pape Kristine , Schei Jorun , Metsälä Johanna , Andersen Anne-Marie Nybo , Sandin Sven , Kajantie Eero , Risnes Kari
Published: November 2024

Background

External causes of death, such as accidents, substance use, and suicide, contribute substantially to mortality during adolescence and early adulthood and show marked sex differences. Individuals born preterm are at increased risk of mental disorders, and impaired cognitive and executive functions, potentially increasing their vulnerability to death from external causes. We investigated sex-specific associations between gestational age at birth and mortality from external causes during late adolescence and early adulthood.

Methods

Individual level data from national health registries in Denmark (1978–2001), Finland (1987–2003), Norway (1967–2002), and Sweden (1974–2001) were linked to form nationwide cohorts. In total, 6,924,697 participants were followed from age 15 years to a maximum of 50 years in 2016–2018. Gestational age was categorized as “very/moderately preterm” (23–33 weeks), “late preterm” (34–36 weeks), “early term” (37–38 weeks), “full term” (39–41 weeks), and “post term” (42–44 weeks). Outcomes were mortality from external causes overall and from the largest subgroups transport accidents, suicide, and drugs or alcohol. We estimated sex-specific hazard ratios (HRs), with full term as the reference, and pooled each country’s estimates in meta-analyses.

Results

Across gestational ages mortality was higher for males than females. Individuals born very/moderately preterm had higher mortality from external causes, with HRs 1.11 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.99–1.24) for males and 1.55 (95% CI 1.28–1.88) for females. Corresponding estimates for late preterm born were 1.11 (95% CI 1.04–1.18) and 1.15 (95% CI 1.02–1.29), respectively. Those born very/moderately preterm had higher mortality from transport accidents, but precision was low. For females, suicide mortality was higher following very/moderately preterm birth (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.34–2.32), but not for males. Mortality from drugs or alcohol was higher in very/moderately and late preterm born males (HRs 1.23 [95% CI 0.99–1.53] and 1.29 [95% CI 1.16–1.45], respectively) and females (HRs 1.53 [95% CI 0.97–2.41] and 1.35 [95% CI 1.07–1.71], respectively, with some heterogeneity across countries).

Conclusions

Mortality from external causes overall was higher in preterm than full term born among both males and females. A clear sex difference was seen for suicide, where preterm birth was a risk factor in females, but not in males.
Efficacy and safety of Shengjiang Xiexin decoction on irinotecan-induced diarrhea in small cell lung cancer patients: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Deng Chao , Liu Qing , Yang Meng , Cui Hui-juan , Ge Yang , Li Qin , Zhu Shi-jie , Yang Guo-wang , Zhang Zhi-guo , Gao Yu , Lou Yan-ni , Jia Li-qun
Published: November 2024

Background

Irinotecan is a standard chemotherapeutic agent in small cell lung cancer (SCLC), however, as a common adverse reaction, diarrhea limits the use of irinotecan. Shengjiang Xiexin decoction (SXD) has been used in various gastrointestinal diseases in China two thousand years ago. We designed this clinical trial to supply more evidences on the use of SXD as prophylaxis for irinotecan-induced diarrhea, especially for high-risk population predicted by gene testing of uridine diphosphate glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1).

Methods

In this clinical trial, 120 patients with SCLC were recruited from six hospitals in China. They received two cycles of chemotherapy, meanwhile they were randomized to receive SXD or placebo for 14 days of oral administration in each cycle of chemotherapy. The primary outcome is the incidence of diarrhea. And secondary outcomes include the the degree of diarrhea and neutropenia, the number of chemotherapy cycles with diarrhea, first occurrence time and duration of diarrhea. To evaluate the effect of SXD on the intestine, a rat model with delayed-onset diarrhea induced by irinotecan was established, and the expression of inflammatory factors including IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, anti-inflammatory factors including IL-10, TGF- β in jejunal tissue was detected by ELISA.

Results

101 patients (53 in SXD group, 48 in placebo group) completed the trial. The incidence of diarrhea in SXD group and placebo group were 26.42% (14/53) and 52.08% (25/48), respectively (P < 0.05), and the degree of diarrhea also had significant differences (P < 0.05). In UGT1A1 high-risk population, the incidence of diarrhea in two groups were 9.09% and 66.67% (P < 0.05), but there was no significant differences in UGT1A1 low-risk population. The incidence of neutropenia with degree 1–3 between two groups was 20.75% vs 20.83%, 13.21% vs 18.57%, 9.43% vs 20.83% (P < 0.05). No severe adverse events were reported in any group. And animal studies had shown SXD reduced content of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, increased content of IL-10, TGF-β in jejunum tissue.

Conclusions

SXD had a prophylactic effect in the diarrhea induced by irinotecan, especially for UGT1A1 high-risk population, and this effect from SXD appeared to be maintained the completion of chemotherapy schedule. The mechanism of action of SXD was related to the regulation of inflammatory factors.

Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Register: ChiCTR1800018490. Registered on 20 September 2018. https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=25250. The preliminary protocol of this clinical study has been published in the journal “Trials” in the form of protocol before this paper (Deng et al. in Trials 21:370, 2020).
Photo editing and the risk of anorexia nervosa among children and adolescents
Authors: Bozzola Elena , Scarpato Elena , Caruso Cinthia , Russo Rocco , Aversa Tommaso , Agostiniani Rino
Published: November 2024

Filters and photoediting are widely used to transform or alter photos, mainly selfies, before sharing with friends or on social networks. In adult population there is a strong evidence of the potential risks of this behaviuor. Aim of the present work is to revise international literature exploring the correlation between photo manipulation and anorexia nervosa among children and adolescents. International literature focusing on photo manipulation and anorexia nervosa has been examined, according to the PRISMA Extension guidelines for Scoping Reviews using the following strategies: “Photomanipulation” Filters: English, Child: 6–12 years, Adolescent: 13–18 years, from 2000–2024 Pubmed Search: ((“Photography“[Mesh]) AND “Anorexia Nervosa“[Mesh]) AND “Anorexia Nervosa“[Majr] Filters: Adolescent: 13–18 years, Child: 6–12 years, from 2000–2024. According to the literature review strategy, only few and limited evidences are available for the pediatric population. As well as in adults, there is an increased risk for eating disorders in adolescents regularly sharing selfies and practicing photo manipulation. New social media and online chat may be associated with lower personal weight satisfaction, higher drive for thinness, and eating disorder symptoms. The Italian Pediatric Society Communication Group suggests to increase the awareness on the potential risks of photo manipulation among children and adolescents, suggesting the plan of more studies target to this population to gain evidence specifically, social campaigns and school education. Finally, the use of technology should be included as part of routine pediatric control visit, especially in the pre-adolescence period.
Menopausal hormone therapy and incidence, mortality, and survival of breast cancer subtypes: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Busund Marit , Ursin Giske , Lund Eiliv , Chen Sairah Lai Fa , Rylander Charlotta
Published: November 2024

Background

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is associated with an increased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer, predominantly the luminal A-like subtype. The impact of MHT on deaths from breast cancer subtypes is less understood. This study aimed to explore associations between MHT use and the incidence, mortality, and survival of intrinsic-like breast cancer subtypes.

Methods

Data from 160,881 participants with self-reported MHT use from the prospective Norwegian Women and Cancer Study were analyzed. Among them, 7,844 incident breast cancer cases, and 721 breast cancer-specific deaths occurred. Cox proportional hazard regression was performed to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between MHT use and the incidence, mortality, and survival of breast cancer subtypes.

Results

MHT use was associated with increased risk of overall, luminal A-like, and luminal B-like breast cancer, with respective HRs of 1.44 (95% CI 1.36–1.52), 1.41 (95% CI 1.31–1.52), and 1.23 (95% CI 1.09–1.40) among current estrogen-progestin therapy (EPT) users compared with never users. The risk increased by 4%, 4%, and 2% per year of EPT use for overall, luminal A-like, and luminal B-like breast cancers, respectively. MHT use was also associated with increased risk of overall and luminal A-like breast cancer mortality, with HRs 1.61% (95% CI 1.36–1.91) and 2.15% (95% CI 1.51–3.05) increased risk among current EPT users compared with non-users. Among patients with breast cancer, pre-diagnostic MHT use was not associated with worse survival from overall breast cancer but was inversely associated with survival from triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC; HR death 0.41; 95% CI 0.24–0.73 among current users). Results varied significantly according to tumor subtype (pheterogeneity = 0.02).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that MHT use increases the risk of incident and fatal overall and luminal A-like, and incident luminal B-like breast cancer but does not decrease overall survival among patients with breast cancer. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying MHT use and breast cancer lethality, and to explore whether MHT use among patients with TNBC is indeed free from harm.
Molecular analysis of vector-borne pathogens in Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) from continental Europe
Authors: Lindhorst Zoë Tess Lara , Brandstetter Sebastian , Unterköfler Maria Sophia , Eigner Barbara , Spergser Joachim , Colyn Marc , Steinbach Peter , Ćirović Duško , Šprem Nikica , Dumić Tomislav , Veneziano Vincenzo , Müller Franz , Harl Josef , Deak Georgiana , Ionică Angela Monica , Heddergott Mike , Fuehrer Hans-Peter
Published: November 2024

Background

Vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) are increasing in significance in veterinary medicine and public health settings, with wildlife playing a potentially crucial role in their transmission. Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) are widely distributed across Europe. However, information currently available on the prevalence of VBPs in badgers is limited. The objective of the current study was to investigate the occurrence of Anaplasmataceae, Bartonella spp., Mycoplasma spp., Rickettsia spp., Piroplasmida, Trypanosomatida and Filarioidea in badgers and subsequently, based on the results, assess the potential risk to domestic animals, other wildlife and humans.

Methods

Between 2017 and 2021, blood or spleen samples from 220 badgers were collected in nine continental European countries: Austria (n = 7), Bosnia and Herzegovina (n = 2), Croatia (n = 22), France (n = 44), Germany (n = 16), Hungary (n = 7), Italy (n = 16), Romania (n = 80) and Serbia (n = 26). VBPs were identified by performing PCR analysis on the samples, followed by Sanger sequencing. Additionally, to distinguish between different Babesia lineages we performed restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis on piroplasm-positive samples, using HinfI as restriction enzyme. A phylogenetic analysis was performed on Mycoplasma spp.

Results

The pathogens identified were Babesia sp. badger type A (54%), B (23%), and C (37%); Trypanosoma pestanai (56%); Mycoplasma sp. (34%); Candidatus Mycoplasma haematomelis (8%); Candidatus Mycoplasma haematominutum (0.5%); and Ehrlichia spp. (2%). Rickettsia spp., Bartonella spp. and filarioid nematodes were not detected among the tested samples.

Conclusions

The large sample size and diverse study populations in this study provide valuable insights into the distribution and epidemiology of the analyzed pathogens. Some of the VBPs identified in our study show high similarity to those found in domestic animals, such as dogs. This finding suggests that badgers, as potential reservoirs for these pathogens, may pose a threat not only to other wildlife but also to domestic animals in close vicinity. Continuous surveillance is essential to monitor VBPs in wildlife as a means to enable the assessment of their impact on other wildlife species, domestic animals and human health.

Graphical Abstract
Addiction consult service involvement in PrEP and PEP delivery for patients who inject drugs admitted to an urban essential hospital
Authors: Rozansky Hallie , Christine Paul J. , Younkin Morgan , Fox Jason M. , Weinstein Zoe M. , Suarez Sebastian , Stewart Jessica , Farrell Natalija , Taylor Jessica L.
Published: November 2024

Background

Addiction medicine providers have a key role in HIV prevention amidst rising HIV incidence in persons who inject drugs (PWID). Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) are vastly underutilized in this population. Inpatient hospitalization represents a potential touchpoint for initiation of HIV prophylaxis, though little research explores the role of addiction providers. Here we describe rates of PrEP/PEP delivery to hospitalized PWID seen by an Addiction Consult Service (ACS) at an urban, essential hospital.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional study of hospitalized patients who were seen by the ACS from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2022 and had plausible injection drug use. We calculated the proportion of patients who received a new prescription for PrEP/PEP at discharge. We used descriptive statistics to characterize demographics, substance use, reason for admission, and indications for PrEP/PEP. Secondarily, we calculated the monthly proportion of all patients discharged from the hospital with PrEP/PEP who were seen by the ACS compared to those not seen by the ACS.

Results

The average monthly proportion of ACS consults with plausible injection drug use who received PrEP/PEP was 6.4%. This increased from 4.2% in 2020 to 7.5% in 2022. Those seen by the ACS who received PrEP/PEP had high rates of opioid use disorder (97.5%), stimulant use disorder (77.8%), and homelessness (58.1%); over half were admitted for an injection-related infection. The indications for PrEP/PEP were injection drug use only (70.6%), followed by combined injection and sexual risk (20.2%); 71.9% of prescriptions were for PrEP and 28.1% for PEP. Overall, the ACS was involved in 83.9% of hospital-wide discharges with PrEP/PEP prescriptions (n = 242).

Conclusions

PWID who were seen by the ACS received PrEP/PEP prescriptions at rates exceeding national averages. The ACS was also involved with the care of the majority of admitted patients who received PrEP/PEP at discharge. While PrEP/PEP use for PWID remains low, the inpatient ACS represents a key resource to improve uptake by leveraging the reachable moment of an inpatient hospitalization.