bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in the effectiveness of leukocyte-rich platelet-rich plasma compared with leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of rotator cuff surgery: an umbrella review of meta-analyses
Authors: Tang Peiyuan , Rahmati Masoud , Xiao Wenfeng , Wen Ting , Yon Dong Keon , Smith Lee , Su Jingyue , Yang Shengwu , Li Yusheng , Deng Zhenhan
Published: October 2024

Background

An umbrella review of meta-analyses was conducted to evaluate the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in arthroscopic surgeries of rotator cuff injury. The effectiveness of leukocyte-poor PRP and leukocyte-rich PRP in the treatment of rotator cuff surgery was also compared.

Methods

Web of Science, Embase, PubMed/MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to May 2024. Literature screening, quality evaluation, and data extraction were performed according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Jadad decision algorithm was used to ascertain which meta-analysis represented the best evidence.

Results

A total of 11 meta-analyses with evidence level ranging from level 1 to 2 were included in this umbrella review. Leukocyte-poor PRP was effective in reducing rotator cuff retear rates, alleviating pain, and increasing Constant scores compared with non-PRP treatments. However, it did not show improvement on the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and the Simple Shoulder Test (SST) compared with the non-PRP treatment group. Meanwhile, the leukocyte-rich PRP group improved the SST but showed no different results when compared with the non-PRP treatment group.

Conclusion

Compared with no use of PRP, leukocyte-poor PRP was able to alleviate postoperative pain, reduce the retear rate, and improve the postoperative Constant score. Leukocyte-rich PRP could effectively enhance postoperative SST outcomes, leading to improvement of patient satisfaction and quality of life. Future researches should prioritize long-term follow-up studies and evaluate the durability of these results.
Patients´ experiences of an exercise intervention in primary care following robot-assisted radical cystectomy due to bladder cancer: a qualitative study
Authors: Karlsson Patrik , Nygren-Bonnier Malin , Torikka Simon , Porserud Andrea , Henningsohn Lars , Olsson Christina B. , Rydwik Elisabeth , Hagströmer Maria
Published: October 2024

Background

Physical activity is thought to be a key component in reducing postoperative complications following major abdominal surgery. The available literature on exercise interventions following radical cystectomy in patients with bladder cancer is scarce but suggests that physical activity and exercise might improve physical function and health-related quality of life, thus calling for further investigation. The CanMoRe-trial is a single-blinded randomised controlled trial (Clinicals Trials NCT03998579 25/06/2019), aimed at evaluating the impact of an exercise intervention in primary care following robot-assisted radical cystectomy. This study seeks to explore patients’ experiences of the exercise intervention in the CanMoRe-trial to gain a better understanding of facilitating aspects and potential barriers.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted involving 20 patients from the intervention group of the CanMoRe-trial who were interviewed individually between October 2020 and March 2023 using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim and reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Four main themes were identified: Having to adapt to new circumstances, describing the challenges regarding physical activity patients face after discharge. Optimising conditions for rehabilitation, describing how practical conditions affect patients’ ability to exercise. Motivated to get back to normal, describing patients´ desire to get back to normal life and factors influencing motivation. Importance of a supportive environment, describing the impact of social support, support from physiotherapists, and how the environment where exercise takes place impacts patients’ ability to exercise.

Conclusion

This study found that patients participating in the CanMoRe-trial are positive towards physical exercise in PC following radical RARC. They are motivated to get back to normal life but face major challenges when arriving home following surgery, which affect their ability to perform physical activity and engage in exercise. Conditions need to be optimised to support patients’ ability to engage in exercise by providing an accessible PC location to perform exercise in. A supportive environment is also needed, including guidance from healthcare professionals regarding which type of exercise, intensity and amount of exercise that should be performed, enabling patients gradually to develop self-efficacy regarding exercise and focusing on goals related to patients’ normal lives before surgery.
Risk factors for refractory respiratory distress syndrome among very-low-birth-weight infants
Authors: Shin Jeongmin , Choi Chang Won , Lee Byung Kook
Published: October 2024

Background

The objective was to evaluate refractory respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) risk factors among very-low-birth-weight infants (VLBWIs).

Method

The data of VLBWIs born between January 2013 and December 2020 registered in the Korean Neonatal Network (KNN) were analyzed. Infants who died within 5 postnatal days or who were not given surfactant were excluded. Infants were divided into a well-responding RDS group, which received surfactant replacement therapy (SRT) only once, and a refractory RDS group, which received SRT twice or more. The associations between perinatal characteristics and refractory RDS were investigated via multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that low gestational age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.23, 1.26], male sex (aOR = 1.17, 95% CI [1.06, 1.29]), cesarean section (aOR = 1.59, 95% CI [1.38, 1.80]), maternal hypertensive disorder (aOR = 1.54, 95% CI[1.35, 1.75]), and low 5-minute Apgar scores (aOR = 1.24, 95% CI [1.12, 1.37]) were significantly associated with refractory RDS. Antenatal corticosteroid use (aOR = 0.81, 95% CI [0.73, 0.89]) and maternal chorioamnionitis (aOR = 0.79, 95% CI [0.71, 0.88]) were significantly inversely associated with refractory RDS. Compared with well-responding RDS, refractory RDS was significantly associated with increased major neonatal morbidity and mortality risk at 5 postnatal days.

Conclusion

Maternal hypertensive disorder is a significant risk factor for refractory RDS. Refractory RDS was associated with unfavorable neonatal outcomes.
Analyzing early childhood allergy prevention motivation of mothers of infants and its predictors using latent class analysis and structural equation modelling
Authors: Wirtz Markus Antonius , Schulz Anja Alexandra , Heiberger Andrea , Dresch Carolin
Published: October 2024

Background

Allergic diseases are among the most common chronic diseases in childhood. Early childhood allergy prevention (ECAP) behaviors of those caring for the infant during pregnancy and the first months of life may influence the risk of allergy development over the life course. Motivation and intention to use appropriate primary ECAP measures are thus of critical importance.

Aims

To characterize parental ECAP motivation, (a) valid indicators will be developed and (b) typical parental characteristics will be identified. (c) According to socio-cognitive models, the predictive value of parental risk perception, control belief and self-efficacy for parental ECAP motivation shall be determined.

Method

A sample of N = 343 (expectant) mothers of infants completed a questionnaire on self-reported ECAP motivation, risk perception, control belief, and self-efficacy. The cross-sectional data were analyzed using latent class analysis and structural equation modelling including nominal regression models.

Results

Four typical maternal response profiles (motivated to a customary degree, 70%; motivated to use primary preventive measures, 17.8%; reluctant towards new prevention measures, 6.4%; highly motivated to apply preventive measures in case of an existing allergy, 5.8%) could be identified for the items on ECAP motivation. After splitting the model variables “risk perception” (allergy vs. allergy-associated general health problems) and “self-efficacy” (trust vs. insecurity) a satisfactory model-fit was achieved (CFI = .939; RMSEA = .064). Particularly, increased “risk perception-allergy” (OR = 1.655) and “self-efficacy-insecurity” (OR = 2.013) as well as lower “risk perception-general health” (OR = 0.555) and “control belief” (OR = 0.217), respectively, are associated with higher ECAP motivation.

Conclusion

The use of ECAP-measures by parents to protect their newborns from allergies is important, but there are deficiencies in their implementation. Based on a social cognitive model approach, predictive characteristics could be identified, which are associated with increased motivation to implement ECAP-measures. For public health our findings provide a promising basis for conception of behavioral and environmental ECAP prevention measures and their motivated implementation by parents.
Association between healthy lifestyle on life course and multimorbidity in adults: results from two national prospective cohort studies
Authors: Ye Xiaoying , Liang Mengdan , Chen Zhehui , Jiang Xiannuan , Xie Mengying , Xie Xiaowei , Lan Guohui , Lu Xiaoli , Huang Zelin , Xu Tingting , Xie Xiaoxu
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To examine the correlation between healthy lifestyle patterns, their change trajectories, and the risk of multimorbidity in adults.

Methods

Based on two representative national cohorts, the English Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSA) and the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) including adults aged 50 years and over. We employed Cox regression, lifestyle change trajectories, and restricted mean survival times to explore the relationship between lifestyle (assessed by SCORE2, LE’8, and HLS scores) and multimorbidity. We also conducted mediation analysis to investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Results

A healthy lifestyle (higher LE’8, higher HLS, or lower SCORE2) can reduce the risk of multimorbidity. 2-10% lower multimorbidity risk per one-point increase in LE’8 and HLS. The hazard ratio of multimorbidity for improvements in unhealthy lifestyles or deterioration in healthy lifestyles compared to always healthy lifestyles ranged from 1.598 to 5.602. Besides, for LE’8 and HLS, participants with higher scores had a slower decrease in survival probability in ELSA. Triglyceride, C-reaction protein, fibrinogen, and cystatin C partly mediate the association between lifestyle and multimorbidity.

Conclusions

Keeping a healthy lifestyle over time can help reduce the risk of multimorbidity.
Preparation and characterization of bovine dental pulp-derived extracellular matrix hydrogel for regenerative endodontic applications: an in vitro study
Authors: Elnawam Hisham , Thabet Abdelrahman , Mobarak Ahmed , Abdallah Amr , Elbackly Rania
Published: October 2024

Background

The use of biological scaffolds in regenerative endodontics has gained much attention in recent years. The search for a new biomimetic scaffold that contains tissue-specific cell homing factors could lead to more predictable tissue regeneration. The aim of this study was to prepare and characterize decellularized bovine dental pulp-derived extracellular matrix (P-ECM) hydrogels for regenerative endodontic applications.

Methods

Freshly extracted bovine molar teeth were collected. Bovine dental pulp tissues were harvested, and stored at -40º C. For decellularization, a 5-day protocol was implemented incorporating trypsin/EDTA, deionized water and DNase treatment. Decellularization was evaluated by DNA quantification and histological examination to assess collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) content. This was followed by the preparation of P-ECM hydrogel alone or combined with hyaluronic acid gel (P-ECM + HA). The fabricated scaffolds were then characterized using protein quantification, hydrogel topology and porosity, biodegradability, and growth factor content using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA): transforming growth factor beta-1(TGF-β1), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

Results

Decellularization was histologically confirmed, and DNA content was below (50 ng/mg tissue). P-ECM hydrogel was prepared with a final ECM concentration of 3.00 mg/ml while P-ECM + HA hydrogel was prepared with a final ECM concentration of 1.5 mg/ml. Total protein content in P-ECM hydrogel was found to be (439.0 ± 123.4 µg/µl). P-ECM + HA showed sustained protein release while the P-ECM group showed gradual decreasing release. Degradation was higher in P-ECM + HA which had a significantly larger fiber diameter, while P-ECM had a larger pore area percentage. ELISA confirmed the retention and release of growth factors where P-ECM hydrogel had higher BMP-2 release, while P-ECM + HA had higher release of TGF-β1, bFGF, and VEGF.

Conclusions

Both P-ECM and P-ECM + HA retained their bioactive properties demonstrating a potential role as functionalized scaffolds for regenerative endodontic procedures.
A modified protocol merging two published techniques for computer guided zygomatic implants surgery: a technical note
Authors: Abouzeid Omar Effat Mokhtar , Gaber Ramy M. , Maergy Haitham A. , Hany Hossam El-Dien , Abdelmohsen Karim M. , Elkassaby Marwa A. , Taha Moustafa M.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Zygomatic implant surgery can be difficult due to the limited intraoperative visibility of the surgical field and the complex anatomy of the zygomatic bone, which could lead to serious complications. This study aims to assess the accuracy of zygomatic implants placement using computer-guided surgical templates.

Materials and methods

A total of 13 zygomatic implants were placed in four participants. Double-sleeve drill guides were used with the help of computer-guided surgical templates designed with a lateral window. The accuracy was evaluated by measuring the linear deviations regarding the implants’ platforms and apices’ positions in addition to the angular deviations. Moreover, deviations of both implants from three fixed planes of space were measured.

Results

The mean linear deviation at platforms was 2.44 mm ± 1.57 and at the apices 2.32 mm ± 1 while the mean angular deviation was 3.6˚ ± 1.92. Differences at the entry points were 0.43 ± 1.79 mm, 0.39 ± 1.12 mm, and − 0.54 ± 2.00 mm from the mid-sagittal, horizontal, and coronal planes respectively. Differences at the exit points were − 0.75 ± 1.25 mm, -0.06 ± 1.09 mm, and 0.63 ± 1.24 mm from the same planes respectively. Within all planes, there was no statistically significant difference.

Conclusion

Given the limitations of this study, the use of the computer-guided surgical templates augmented by the double sleeve drill guides allowed favorable control over the tip of the long surgical drill away from vital structures during the zygomatic implant osteotomy. It also allowed control over alveolar crest osteotomy and its placement in a favorable prosthetic position. Overall, this protocol should be considered for further research and improvement to allow more predictable surgical outcomes while preventing the occurrence of complications. Before conducting this study, the protocol was reviewed and approved by the Research Ethical Committee of Faculty of Dentistry, Ain Shams University in meeting no. (105), on 15th of July 2020 with the application no.: (FDASU-RecD072029).
The predictive capacity of biomarkers for clinical pulmonary oedema in patients with severe falciparum malaria is low: a prospective observational study
Authors: Ishioka Haruhiko , Ghose Aniruddha , Kingston Hugh W. , Plewes Katherine , Leopold Stije J. , Srinamon Ketsanee , Charunwatthana Prakaykaew , Ahmed Maswood , Alam A. K. M. Shamsul , Tuip-de Boer Anita , Hossain Md Amir , Dondorp Arjen M. , Schultz Marcus J.
Published: October 2024

Background

Pulmonary oedema is a feared and difficult to predict complication of severe malaria that can emerge after start of antimalarial treatment. Proinflammatory mediators are thought to play a central role in its pathogenesis.

Methods

An exploratory study was conducted to evaluate the predictive capacity of biomarkers for development of clinical pulmonary oedema in patients with severe falciparum malaria at two hospitals in Bangladesh. Plasma concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, tumour necrosis factor (TNF), soluble Receptor of Advanced Glycation End-products (sRAGE), surfactant protein-D (SP-D), club cell secretory protein (CC16), and Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) on admission were compared with healthy controls. Correlations between these biomarker and plasma lactate and Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 (PfHRP2) levels were evaluated. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to assess the predictive capacity for clinical pulmonary oedema of the biomarkers of interest.

Results

Of 106 screened patients with falciparum malaria, 56 were classified as having severe malaria with a mortality rate of 29%. Nine (16%) patients developed clinical pulmonary oedema after admission. Plasma levels of the biomarkers of interest were higher in patients compared to healthy controls. IL-6, IL-8, TNF, sRAGE, and CC16 levels correlated well with plasma PfHRP2 levels (rs = 0.39; P = 0.004, rs = 0.43; P = 0.001, rs = 0.54; P < 0.001, rs = 0.44; P < 0.001, rs = 0.43; P = 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, IL-6 and IL-8 levels correlated well with plasma lactate levels (rs = 0.37; P = 0.005, rs = 0.47; P < 0.001, respectively). None of the biomarkers of interest had predictive capacity for development of clinical pulmonary oedema.

Conclusions

IL-6, IL-8, TNF, sRAGE, SP-D, CC16 and KL-6 cannot be used in predicting clinical pulmonary oedema in severe malaria patients.
Enhancing the estimation of PaCO2 from etCO2 during ventilation through non-invasive parameters in the ovine model
Authors: Grüne Mike , Olivier Lena , Pfannschmidt Valerie , Hütten Matthias , Orlikowsky Thorsten , Stollenwerk Andre , Schoberer Mark
Published: October 2024

Background

In mechanically ventilated neonates, the arterial partial pressure of $$\text {CO}_{2}$$

CO
2

($$\text {PaCO}_{2}$$

PaCO
2

) is an important indicator for the adequacy of ventilation settings. Determining the $$\text {PaCO}_{2}$$

PaCO
2

is commonly done using invasive blood gas analyses, which constitute risks for neonates and are typically only available infrequently. An accurate, reliable, and continuous estimation of $$\text {PaCO}_{2}$$

PaCO
2

is of high interest for medical staff, giving the possibility of a closer monitoring and faster reactions to changes. We aim to present a non-invasive estimation method for $$\text {PaCO}_{2}$$

PaCO
2

in neonates on the basis of end-tidal $$\text {CO}_{2}$$

CO
2

($$\text {etCO}_{2}$$

etCO
2

) with inclusion of different physiological and ventilation parameters. The estimation method should be more accurate than an estimation by unaltered $$\text {etCO}_{2}$$

etCO
2

measurements with regard to the mean absolute error and the standard deviation.

Methods

Secondary data from 51 preterm lambs are used, due to its high comparability to preterm human data. We utilize robust linear regression on 863 $$\text {PaCO}_{2}$$

PaCO
2

measurements below or equal to 75 mmHg from the first day of life. $$\text {etCO}_{2}$$

etCO
2

along with a set of ventilation settings and measurements as well as vital parameters are included in the regression. Included independent variables are chosen iteratively by highest Pearson correlation to the remaining estimation deviation.

Results

The evaluation is carried out on 12 additional neonatal lambs with 246 $$\text {PaCO}_{2}$$

PaCO
2

measurements below or equal to 75 mmHg from the first two days of life. The estimation method shows a mean absolute error of 3.80 mmHg with a 4.92 mmHg standard deviation of differences and a standard error of 0.31 mmHg in comparison to measured $$\text {PaCO}_{2}$$

PaCO
2

by blood gas analysis.

Conclusions

The estimation of $$\text {PaCO}_{2}$$

PaCO
2

by the proposed equation is less biased than unaltered $$\text {etCO}_{2}$$

etCO
2

. The usage of this method in clinical practice or in applications like the automation of ventilation needs further investigation.
Two-sample Mendelian Randomization to evaluate the causal relationship between inflammatory arthritis and female-specific cancers
Authors: Meisinger Christa , Fischer Simone , O’Mara Tracy , Freuer Dennis
Published: October 2024

Background

There is evidence that inflammatory arthritis in the form of ankylosing spondylitis (AS), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and rheumatoid arthritis are both positively and negatively associated with certain female-specific cancers. However, the study results are very heterogeneous.

Methods

Based on up to 375,814 European women, we performed an iterative two-sample Mendelian randomization to assess causal effects of the occurrence of the inflammatory arthritis on the risk of female-specific cancer in form of breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancer sites as well as their subtypes. Evidence was strengthened by using similar exposures for plausibility or by replication with a subsequent meta-analysis. P-values were Bonferroni adjusted.

Results

Genetic liability to AS was associated with ovarian cancer (OR = 1.03; 95% CI: [1.01; 1.04]; $$\:{P}_{adj}$$=0.029) and liability to PsA with breast cancer (OR = 1.02; CI: [1.01; 1.04]; $$\:{P}_{adj}$$=0.002). Subgroup analyses revealed that the high-grade serous ovarian cancer (OR = 1.04; CI: [1.02; 1.06]; $$\:{P}_{adj}$$=0.015) and the ER- breast cancer (OR = 1.04; CI: [1.01; 1.07]; $$\:{P}_{adj}$$=0.118) appeared to drive the observed associations, respectively. No further associations were found between the remaining inflammatory arthritis phenotypes and female-specific cancers.

Conclusions

This study suggests that AS is a risk factor for ovarian cancer, while PsA is linked to an increased breast cancer risk. These results are important for physicians caring women with inflammatory arthritis to advise their patients on cancer screening and preventive measures.
Holy grail or convenient excuse? Stakeholder perspectives on the role of health system strengthening evaluation in global health resource allocation
Authors: Sriram Veena , Palmer Natasha , Pereira Shreya , Bennett Sara
Published: October 2024

Background

The role of evaluation evidence in guiding health systems strengthening (HSS) investments at the global-level remains contested. A lack of rigorous impact evaluations is viewed by some as an obstacle to scaling resources. However, others suggest that power dynamics and knowledge hierarchies continue to shape perceptions of rigor and acceptability in HSS evaluations. This debate has had major implications on HSS resource allocation in global-level funding decisions. Yet, few studies have examined the relationship between HSS evaluation evidence and prioritization of HSS. In this paper, we explore the perspectives of key global health stakeholders, specifically around the nature of evidence sought regarding HSS and its potential impact on prioritization, the challenges in securing such evidence, and the drivers of intra- and inter-organizational divergences. We conducted a stakeholder analysis, drawing on 25 interviews with senior representatives of major global health organizations, and utilized inductive approaches to data analysis to develop themes.

Results

Our analysis suggests an intractable challenge at the heart of the relationship between HSS evaluations and prioritization. A lack of evidence was used as a reason for limited investments by some respondents, citing their belief that HSS was an unproven and potentially risky investment which is driven by the philosophy of HSS advocates rather than evidence. The same respondents also noted that the ‘holy grail’ of evaluation evidence that they sought would be rigorous studies that assess the impact of investments on health outcomes and financial accountability, and believed that methodological innovations to deliver this have not occurred. Conversely, others held HSS as a cross-cutting principle across global health investment decisions, and felt that the type of evidence sought by some funders is unachievable and not necessary – an ‘elusive quest’ – given methodological challenges in establishing causality and attribution. In their view, evidence would not change perspectives in favor of HSS investments, and evidence gaps were used as a ‘convenient excuse’. Respondents raised additional concerns regarding the design, dissemination and translation of HSS evaluation evidence.

Conclusions

Ongoing debates about the need for stronger evidence on HSS are often conducted at cross-purposes. Acknowledging and navigating these differing perspectives on HSS evaluation may help break the gridlock and find a more productive way forward.
Trends in Israeli clinical trials registration “MyTrial”
Authors: Engel Anat , Cohen Ornit
Published: October 2024

Background

Clinical trial registration is critical for research transparency and integrity. Since 2005, the Declaration of Helsinki has required prospective registration of trials before subject recruitment. In Israel, the MyTrial registry was established in 2015 to register interventional trials and became mandatory in 2016 for ethical approval. The study aimed to analyze the registration practices, challenges, and trends in clinical trial registration in Israel using the local registry “MyTrial”.

Methods

A total of 3,895 clinical trial records from 2011 to December 2022 were retrieved from the MyTrial platform and subjected to descriptive analysis.

Results

A significant increase occurred from 2016 to 2021 due to mandated registration, with a peak in 2020 (733 trials) and a decrease in 2022 (462 trials), likely due to COVID-19. Most of the trials included drugs (56%) or medical devices (33%). Geographically, 53% were from central Israel. Only 39% of the patients were registered at both MyTrial and ClinicalTrials.gov. 65% had no blinding. 47% featured unregistered products. 56% had not started recruitment. Since 2016, the number of advanced therapy trials has steadily increased, reaching 19 in 2022. There are gaps between registered trials and official government reports.

Conclusion

These findings provide valuable insights into the current landscape of clinical trial registration in Israel and highlight the need for improvements in compliance with prospective registration and adherence to the WHO-ICTRP standards.
Comparison of conventional internal limiting membrane versus pars plana vitrectomy without peeling for small idiopathic macular hole
Authors: Ruggeri Maria Ludovica , Quarta Alberto , Marolo Paola , Zeppa Lucio , Motta Lorenzo , Gironi Matteo , Toto Lisa , Reibaldi Michele , Mastropasqua Rodolfo
Published: October 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to compare functional and anatomical changes in patients with small full thickness macular holes (FTMHs) who underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with or without Internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling.

Methods

42 eyes of 42 patients diagnosed for FTMHs (< 250 micron) were included in our prospective interventional study. Main outcome measures were: Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), Macular hole closure rate, Ellipsoid Zone (EZ) and External Limiting Membrane (ELM) recover, Vessel Density in both Superficial (VDSCP) and deep (VDDCP) capillary plexus, Macular pigment Optical density (MPOD) and mean Central Macular Sensitivity (CMS).Patients were randomly divided into “peeling group” (21 patients), in which the ILM peeling maneuver was performed and “no-peeling group” (21 patients) in which the ILM was not peeled off. Examinations were repeated one month (T1), three months (T2) and six months (T3) after surgery.

Results

Although significant improvements in terms of MPOD, CMS, VDSCP and VDDCP over time (p < 0.001) no significant differences were found between the peeling and no peeling group. Conversely, FTMHs closure was achieved in all cases (100%) in the peeling group, whereas 10% of cases in the no peeling group experienced the hole re-opening at T3, with reported different rates of ELM/EZ recover between the two groups. Nevertheless, BCVA improved significantly (p < 0.001) but without significant differences between the two groups.

Conclusions

No significant differences were found in terms of anatomical and functional outcomes between the peeling or not the ILM in small FTMHs at 6 months follow-up.
Using reflection and dialog feedback to promote the development of situated and dynamic pedagogical content knowledge
Authors: Li Xijuan , Li Fangfang , Chen Xiaoge , Wang Lei
Published: October 2024

This study explores the reflection and dialog feedback of preservice teachers (PTs) in a one-semester chemistry teaching design and practice course with the aim of improving their situated and dynamic pedagogical content knowledge (PCK). Using a collective case study method, reflections and dialogs from 18 PTs across six teaching cycles were analyzed. The research results indicate that teaching reflection focuses on five themes: the diversity of student situations, the functionality of teaching contexts, the consistency of teaching content, the construction of teacher‒student dialog, and the progression of subject practice activities. The reflection of the PTs strengthened meaningful teaching content and corresponding specific skills, and effective dialog feedback provided external evaluation standards. The reflection prompted teachers to evaluate from multiple perspectives and levels and provided important insights to promote the development of situated and dynamic PCK. This study concludes with a discussion of the practical implications and potential for future research to develop a situated and dynamic PCK for PTs.
Relationship between internet and smartphone addiction and eating attitude and feelings of loneliness in young and adults
Authors: Sanlier Nevin , Özyalçin Büşra , Kocabaş Şule , Ercan Şeyma Nur
Published: October 2024

Background

The developing technology and the rapid increase in the use of the internet, smartphones, and mobile applications can disrupt the daily quality of life of individuals. This research aimed to scrutinize the link between the internet and smartphone addiction of individuals, eating attitude, and loneliness status. This research was carried out in Ankara, Turkey, and cross-sectional study. A total of 643 (M = 240, F = 403) volunteers between the ages of 18 and 50 participated in the study. Eating Attitude Test (EAT-26), Young Internet Addiction Test (YIAT), Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS), and UCLA Loneliness Scales were used in this study.

Results

As the age of the participants increased, YIAT (r =  − 0.352, p < 0.01), SAS scale (r =  − 0.302, p < 0.01), and UCLA questionnaire scores (r =  − 107, p < 0.01) decreased. When BMI of individuals increas, YIAT (r =  − 0.163, p < 0.01), and SAS scale (r =  − 0.173, p < 0.01) scores decrease. As a result of logistic regression multiple analysis, the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) values for the risk of abnormal eating attitudes were 1.654 (1.166–2.607) in overweight and 2.257 (1.466–3.477) in smartphone addiction (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

According to the results of this study, it can be put forth that smartphone and internet addiction is associated with abnormal eating attitude and loneliness.
Relationship between locus of control and health-related quality of life in chronic stroke patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Vasu Deepak Thazhakkattu , Pang Yui Gi
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Stroke is a major cause of disability in adults and the elderly worldwide. Post-stroke rehabilitation success largely depends on consistent participation in treatment sessions and adherence to prescribed physical exercises; however, factors such as individual belief about their health status often affect motivation, slowing recovery. Addressing these influences is essential for improving health-related quality of life and optimizing recovery outcomes.

Methods

This study employed a cross-sectional and correlational design with convenience sampling. The aim was to explore the relationship between recovery locus of control (RLOC) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among chronic stroke survivors. The Recovery Locus of Control scale and the EuroQol 5D-5L scale were utilized for assessment.

Results

A total of 69 participants were included in this survey. The mean RLOC score was 34.91, with internal RLOC at 21.16 and external RLOC at 13.77 and the total EQ5D index was 0.659. Age was a significant grouping factor, with the 30–39 age group showing a significant positive relationship (r = 1.000, p = 0.002), pain and anxiety/depression (p = .045), mobility and anxiety/depression (p = .009), anxiety/depression and self-care (p = .047), IRLOC and ERLOC (p = .013).

Conclusion

The study found that while respondents exhibited high RLOC scores, there was no significant relationship between RLOC scores and the EQ5D-5L index score, suggesting that other factors may play a more critical role in influencing HRQoL among chronic stroke survivors.
Attachment-informed mental healthcare systems as ‘organisational caregivers’: ideas for the future
Authors: Salmoiraghi Alberto , Zarotti Nicolò
Published: October 2024

Over the past 50 years, mental health services have evolved significantly, influenced by shifts in theoretical and practical approaches to mental disorders. Key among these changes are the biopsychosocial and recovery models, which highlight resilience and quality of life in treatment. However, traditional psychiatry has often struggled to embrace these changes because of reductionist perspectives that overlook psychosocial factors, resulting in fragmented care and reduced accessibility. Proposed solutions have faced implementation barriers in absence of a coherent theoretical framework. Here, we outline how attachment theory may offer a promising framework to drive systemic change in mental health by emphasising secure emotional bonds at both the organisational and individual level. Within an attachment-informed culture, services may act as ‘organisational caregivers’ that promote continuity of care, independence and stronger clinical relationships. In turn, this may foster more inclusive, responsive and resilient mental healthcare systems that prioritise patients’ needs and empowerment.
GDF15 Knockout Does Not Substantially Impact Perinatal Body Weight or Neonatal Outcomes in Mice
Authors: Mulcahy Molly C , El Habbal Noura , Redd JeAnna R , Sun Haijing , Gregg Brigid E , Bridges Dave
Published: October 2024

Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF15) increases in circulation during pregnancy and has been implicated in food intake, weight loss, complications of pregnancy, and metabolic illness. We used a Gdf15 knockout mouse model (Gdf15−/−) to assess the role of GDF15 in body weight regulation and food intake during pregnancy. We found that Gdf15−/− dams consumed a similar amount of food and gained comparable weight during the course of pregnancy compared with Gdf15+/+ dams. Insulin sensitivity on gestational day 16.5 was also similar between genotypes. In the postnatal period, litter size and survival rates were similar between genotypes. There was a modest reduction in birth weight of Gdf15−/− pups, but this difference was no longer evident from postnatal day 3.5 to 14.5. We observed no detectable differences in milk volume production or milk fat percentage. These data suggest that GDF15 is dispensable for changes in food intake, and body weight as well as insulin sensitivity during pregnancy in a mouse model.
Liraglutide for the Treatment of Severe Hypoglycemia Following Total Pancreatectomy and Islet Autotransplantation
Authors: Chan Christopher , Hawthorne Wayne , Pleass Henry , Holmes-Walker Deborah Jane
Published: October 2024

Total pancreatectomy and islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) is an effective treatment for chronic and recurrent acute pancreatitis, and it provides a significant potential additional benefit of insulin independence. Spontaneous hypoglycemia in the absence of insulin therapy following TPIAT is a recognized complication, which has been attributed to lack of protective glucagon responses to hypoglycemia, following intrahepatic islet autotransplantation. We describe the use of liraglutide to treat spontaneous hypoglycemia following TPIAT. Continuous glucose monitoring was used to identify timing of hypoglycemia in relation to meals and monitor treatment effect. Liraglutide has been used for management of hypoglycemia following bariatric surgery, but, to our knowledge, this is the first application of its effective use to treat spontaneous severe hypoglycemia following TPIAT.
Juvenile Hemochromatosis Connecting Cardiac Arrest and Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism in a Young Woman
Authors: Zinecker Kevin Alexander , Sliwinska Aleksandra , Wilson Leah M , Zahr Roula
Published: October 2024

Juvenile hemochromatosis (JH) is a subtype of hereditary hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder characterized by excessive iron absorption and deposition in various organs, leading to cardiomyopathy, cirrhosis, and diabetes. Endocrine dysfunction is a common manifestation and may appear years before end-organ damage. This report describes a rare case of JH, emphasizing the consequences of delayed diagnosis. A 28-year-old woman with a history of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism presented with cardiac arrest complicated by acute renal failure and cerebral vascular accidents. She initially exhibited signs of severe cardiomyopathy and multiorgan failure, which led to workup for an underlying cause. Laboratory values showed significantly elevated ferritin and transferrin saturation. Subsequent genetic screening revealed HJV gene pathogenic variants consistent with juvenile hemochromatosis. Treatment involved aggressive iron chelation therapy and outpatient referral for cardiac transplant. This case calls for heightened awareness and early screening of JH, particularly among patients with unexplained endocrine dysfunction. Early diagnosis and treatment are paramount in preventing irreversible organ damage and improving patient outcomes.
Awake Supraglottic Airway Placement in Pediatric Patients for Airway Obstruction or Difficult Intubation: Insights From an International Airway Registry (PeDI)
Authors: Longacre Mckenna , Park Raymond S. , Staffa Steven J. , Rowland Matthew J. , Meserve Jonathan , Lord Charles , Templeton T. Wesley , Garcia-Marcinkiewicz Annery G. , Peyton James M. , Fiadjoe John E. , Kovatsis Pete G. , Stein Mary Lyn ,   the PeDI Collaborative Investigators
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

Small case series have described awake supraglottic airway placement in infants with significant airway obstruction and difficult intubations. We conducted this study to determine outcomes when supraglottic airways were placed in awake children enrolled in the international Pediatric Difficult Intubation Registry including success of ventilation, success of tracheal intubation, and complications.

METHODS:

We reviewed the Pediatric Difficult Intubation Registry to identify all cases of awake supraglottic airway placement before planned tracheal intubation from August 2012 to September 2023 with subsequent review of details of awake supraglottic airway placement in the medical record. We present descriptive statistics of patient demographics, ventilation and intubation outcomes, and complications.

RESULTS:

A supraglottic airway was placed in an awake child in 95 of 8061 (1.2%) cases in the Pediatric Difficult Intubation Registry. Median age was 37 days (range 0–17.6 years) and median weight was 3.7 kg (1.6–46.7 kg). Sixteen (17%) cases were in patients older than 2 years and 7 (7%) were in adolescents. Adequate ventilation via a supraglottic airway was achieved in 81/95 (85%, 95% confidence interval [CI], 77%–93%) encounters. Inadequate (n = 13) or impossible (n = 1) ventilation occurred in 14/95 (15%). No complications were reported with supraglottic airway placement. For subsequent intubation, there was a 35% (33/95) first-attempt success rate and 99% (94/95) eventual success, with 1 patient awakened after failed attempts at tracheal intubation. Hypoxia occurred during the first intubation attempt in 9/95 (9%) encounters. The incidence of hypoxia was lower in encounters in which ventilation via the supraglottic airway was adequate (4/81, 5%) than in encounters in which ventilation via the supraglottic airway was inadequate or impossible (5/14, 36%).

CONCLUSIONS:

Although infrequently attempted, awake placement of a supraglottic airway in children with difficult airways achieved adequate ventilation and provided a conduit for oxygenation and ventilation after induction of anesthesia across a spectrum of ages.
Hindlimb kinematics, kinetics and muscle dynamics during sit-to-stand and sit-to-walk transitions in emus (Dromaius novaehollandiae)
Authors: Lin Yuting , Rankin Jeffery W. , Lamas Luís P. , Moazen Mehran , Hutchinson John R.
Published: October 2024

Terrestrial animals not only need to walk and run but also lie prone to rest and then stand up. Sit-to-stand (STS) and sit-to-walk (STW) transitions are vital behaviours little studied in species other than humans so far, but likely impose biomechanical constraints on limb design because they involve near-maximal excursions of limb joints that should require large length changes and force production from muscles. By integrating data from experiments into musculoskeletal simulations, we analysed joint motions, ground reaction forces, and muscle dynamics during STS and STW in a large terrestrial, bipedal and cursorial bird: the emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae; body mass ∼30 kg). Simulation results suggest that in both STS and STW, emus operate near the functional limits (∼50% of shortening/lengthening) of some of their hindlimb muscles, particularly in distal muscles with limited capacity for length change and leverage. Both movements involved high muscle activations (>50%) and force generation of the major joint extensor muscles early in the transition. STW required larger net joint moments and non-sagittal motions than STS, entailing greater demands for muscle capacity. Whilst our study involves multiple assumptions, our findings lay the groundwork for future studies to understand, for example, how tendon contributions may reduce excessive muscle demands, especially in the distal hindlimb. As the first investigation into how an avian species stands up, this study provides a foundational framework for future comparative studies investigating organismal morphofunctional specialisations and evolution, offering potential robotics and animal welfare applications.
Protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial to evaluate effectiveness of a self-help group intervention to encourage smoke-free homes in slums of Kochi(Kochi Intervention for tobacco smoke free homes-KIFT)
Authors: Sreedevi Aswathy , Krishnapillai Vijayakumar , Thulaseedharan Jissa Vinoda , Irazola Vilma , Krishnan Sajitha , Kunoor Akhilesh , Menon Jaideep Chanavil , Danaei Goodarz
Published: October 2024

Background Exposure to second hand smoke (SHS) is a cause for heart disease and lung cancer among non- smokers. This cluster randomized control trial will evaluate the effectiveness of a tobacco smoke free home intervention in reducing exposure to second hand smoke. Protocol The intervention will be conducted among 30 clusters in urban and peri-urban areas of Kochi, India. The sample size is 300 per arm and 15 clusters to detect a minimal difference of 0.03ng/ml in cotinine levels between groups, at 80% power with a two-sided alfa of 0.05 considering variable cluster size. A baseline survey will be undertaken to identify smokers. Data related to smoking, indoor smoking, nicotine dependence, blood pressure (BP) of smokers, morbidity experienced, and lung volume Fev1/Fev6 of smokers will be measured. Urine cotinine, morbidity, BP of spouse and child will be assessed. Air quality monitors measuring PM2.5 will be placed in homes. Trained self-help group women and frontline health workers will implement the intervention. The intervention will consist of monthly home visits to educate the smoker on the harms of second-hand smoke using 3 A’s. The circle of influencers around the smoking men will also be contacted by the members of self-help group to provide support to stop smoking within homes and to quit. They will then organize two-three meetings of community leaders and heads of women’s groups, present data on harms of SHS, and explain the rationale for establishing smoke free homes in their community for a duration of six months. After the intervention a post assessment will be conducted and this will be repeated after six months. Ethics and dissemination The trial protocol was approved by the Institutional Ethical Committee of Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences. Results will be submitted to open access peer reviewed journals and shared with other stakeholders. Trial registration CTRI/2021/06/034478
Socjologia epidemii. Wyłaniające się choroby zakaźne w perspektywie nauk społecznych
Authors: Afeltowicz Łukasz , Wróblewski Michał
Published: October 2024

Epidemics of infectious diseases are also social phenomena. Taking into consideration social, cultural, and political factors is important while explaining why a disease spreads and also while considering how to slow it down or stop it. This applies not only to diseases known for centuries, such as plague, tuberculosis, and cholera, but also to those that have emerged more recently, such as HIV/AIDS, Ebola, swine flu, and COVID-19. This work is a guide to the social aspects of epidemics. It shows the role that pathogens have played in the development of human civilisations, the relationship between epidemics and modernity, and why the late modern world encourages the emergence of new infectious threats. The book shows how pathogens have been made a significant element of various policies and what impact epidemics have had on the concept of public health. It also discusses how infectious diseases are presented in popular culture and analyses the mechanisms of collective and institutional responses to the threat associated with them. Finally, the book presents the results of studies from 2018 and 2020 on the attitudes of Polish women and men towards infectious diseases and their attitudes towards the pandemic. All this means that this work allows us to put the scale of our response to COVID-19 in the right perspective.  Interview with Prof. Michał Wróblewski:
Parafie Spytkowice, Bachowice i Ryczów w średniowieczu i początkach epoki nowożytnej
Authors: Żurek Dorota
Published: October 2024

SPYTKOWICE, BACHOWICE AND RYCZÓW PARISHES IN THE MIDDLE AGES: SOURCES FOR RESEARCH AND FORMATION OF PARISH DISTRICTS
The problem of the genesis and shaping of the parish network in Poland is complicated. This issue can be explored on the basis of the few surviving sources. The aim of the article is to present the most important sources for research on the origins of the parish in the diocese of Krakow. The first part of the work is devoted to this thema. From these sources, references to the studied area were discussed. Then, the article attempts to show the origins of the parish in Spytkowice, Bachowice and Ryczów and its parish district. The parishes in this area had unstable districts that changed frequently. The parish affiliation of many localities is problematic. This applies especially to Bachowice and Ryczów. In the studied area, we can observe the density of parishes. This, in turn, had a positive impact on the access of the faithful to the Church.