bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Prehabilitation Before Surgery Affect Return to Sport in Baseball Pitchers With Partial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tears?
Authors: Snigar Kourtney , Paul Ryan W. , Spada Joshua M. , Zareef Usman , Hall Anya , Erickson Brandon J. , Ciccotti Michael G. , Thomas Stephen J.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Purposeful rehabilitation before surgery (prehabilitation) has been researched and implemented in the treatment of anterior cruciate ligament tears. However, it is unclear whether prehabilitation would affect outcomes for baseball pitchers with partial ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to determine whether baseball pitchers with partial UCL tears who completed ≥4 weeks of prehabilitation (prehab group) have different return to play (RTP) outcomes than pitchers with 0 to 3 weeks of preoperative physical therapy (no prehab group). We hypothesized that pitchers in the prehab group would have similar RTP rates compared with pitchers in the no prehab group.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Baseball pitchers of all competitive levels who underwent primary UCL reconstruction (UCLR) or UCL repair between 2010 and 2019 were included. Physician chart notes, magnetic resonance images, and operative notes were screened to confirm primary UCLR or UCL repair of a partial UCL tear and to identify whether the nonoperative treatment had been attempted. Patients were contacted via RedCap for postoperative complications, reoperations, RTP, and patient-reported outcomes (Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic score, Andrews-Timmerman score, Conway-Jobe score, and satisfaction).

Results:

Overall, 105 baseball pitchers (n = 55 prehab group; n = 50 no prehab group) were included and evaluated at 3.4 ± 2.5 years postoperatively. Six pitchers underwent UCL repair, and 99 pitchers underwent UCLR. All demographic characteristics were similar between groups except the prehab group received a gracilis graft more frequently (76.5% vs 51.2%; P = .038). The RTP rate (prehab [88.1%] vs no prehab [93.8%]; P = .465) was similar between groups. All other postoperative outcomes were also similar between groups, including revision rates and patient-reported outcomes.

Conclusion:

Postoperative and patient-reported outcomes did not differ significantly between pitchers with partial UCL tears who performed rehabilitation before UCL surgery and pitchers who did not attempt a significant period of rehabilitation before UCL surgery. Clinicians should feel comfortable recommending rehabilitation for patients with partial UCL tears who wish to attempt a period of nonoperative treatment, as postoperative outcomes are not affected if UCL surgery is later needed.
Long-term Clinical Outcomes After TightRope Versus Hook Plate Fixation for Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation
Authors: Ko Sang Hun , Lee Chae-Chill , Jeon Young Dae , Han Jung Won , Lee Kyung Joo
Published: April 2023

Background:

There is limited information regarding the long-term efficacy of techniques for surgical fixation after acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation.

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy of hook plate (HP) and TightRope (TR) fixation for acute AC joint dislocations by comparing the long-term clinical and radiological patient outcomes.

Study Design:

Cohort study, Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This study retrospectively analyzed data from 61 patients with acute AC joint dislocation between July 2011 and November 2015. The patients were grouped according to surgical procedure: HP (n = 36) and TR (n = 25). Clinical outcomes at final follow-up were evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain; the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgery score; the Korean Shoulder Score; and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder score. Side-to-side coracoclavicular (CC) distance on radiographs, postoperative complications, and the rate of subacromial erosion in the HP group were also assessed between procedures.

Results:

The mean follow-up period was 7.0 ± 1.0 years, and there were no significant differences in pain or outcome scores between the HP and TR groups (all P > .05). Forward flexion was better in the TR group (172.6° ± 5.6°) versus the HP group (166.0° ± 10.8°; P = .002). The percentages of patients with a difference in the side-to-side CC distance of <5 mm were 83.3% and 72.0% in the HP and TR groups, respectively ( P = .288). Complications were found in 2 patients in the HP group and 1 in the TR group ( P ≥ .999). Subacromial erosion was observed in 41.7% of patients after HP fixation, with no difference in VAS pain scores at the final follow-up in patients with versus without subacromial erosion ( P = .719).

Conclusion:

When comparing HP with TR fixation for the treatment of acute AC joint dislocations, there were no significant differences in functional outcome scores, final CC distance, or complications. Slightly better forward flexion was seen after TR fixation. Subacromial erosion occurred in 40% of patients after HP fixation, but this did not affect long-term VAS pain scores. Both surgical techniques are effective treatment options for AC joint dislocation.
Factors Associated with Handwashing Behaviors During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Analysis of the Community Health Survey in Korea
Authors: Jo Soojung , Han Soo-Yeon , Howe Nancy
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Handwashing is the most effective preventive behavior for coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) infection. However, research has shown the lower handwashing behaviors among Korean adults.

Objectives

This study aims to analyze factors associated with handwashing as a preventive behavior for COVID-19 infection based on the health belief model (HBM) and the theory of planned behavior (TPB) behavioral theories.

Methods

This secondary data analysis utilized the Community Health Survey developed by Disease Control and Prevention Agency conducted in 2020. Sampling method was stratified and targeted 900 people living in the territory of each community public health center. In total, 228,344 cases were used in the analysis. Handwashing behavior, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, subjective norm, and influenza vaccine uptake were used in the analysis. Regression analysis using weighing strategy by stratification and domain analysis was used.

Results

Less washing hand was associated with older age ( B = 0.01, p < .001), males ( B = 0.42, p < .001), not receiving an influenza vaccine ( B = 0.09, p < .001), perceived susceptibility ( B = 0.12, p < .001), subjective norm ( B = 0.05, p < .001), and perceived severity ( B = −0.04, p < .001).

Conclusion

While perceived susceptibility and social norm had positive association, perceived severity had a negative association with handwashing. Considering the Korean culture, creating a shared norm for frequent handwashing could be beneficial to promote handwashing rather than emphasizing the disease and its consequences.
Role of Human Resource Professionals in Implementation of CSR Projects: Some Observations
Authors: Raju S. Siva
Published: April 2023

Human resource professionals have a major role to play to help a company achieve its corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives. They have the tools and the opportunity to leverage employee commitment to, and engagement in, the firm’s CSR strategy. Although HRM oversees employee-related aspects, CSR helped to develop socially responsible practices. CSR inspired HRM, key HR aspects, namely health–well-being, gender equality–diversity, work–life balance and training–development can be addressed from the CSR perspective. CSR can contribute to long term, sustainable HR solutions. Integrating CSR and HRM promotes responsible people practices. There is emerging evidence that if effectively implemented, CSR can have considerable impact in motivating, developing and retaining staff. People prefer to work for companies that make a difference; corporate values, infused with CSR, generate conscience. A strong employer brand aligned with employee values and concerns is becoming recognised as one of the best ways of retaining talent with employees proud to work for a business that is highly regarded. As management plays an important role in understanding and delivering on key CSR objectives, it is vital to make CSR an integral part of management training programmes. As CSR increasingly becomes part of the business agenda in future, it will become a natural agenda for the HR practitioner.
Civic Engagement in Neighbourhoods regarding serious illness, death and loss (CEIN): a study protocol for a convergent-parallel mixed-methods process and outcome evaluation that balances control and flexibility
Authors: D’Eer Louise , Chambaere Kenneth , Van den Block Lieve , Dury Sarah , Deliens Luc , Cohen Joachim , Smets Tinne
Published: April 2023

Background:

New public health approaches in palliative care attribute an active role to civic society in providing care for those who are seriously ill, caring, or bereaved. Accordingly, Civic Engagement In Neighbourhoods regarding serious illness, dying and loss (CEIN) are emerging worldwide. However, study protocols that advise on how to evaluate the impact and complex social change processes underlying these civic engagement initiatives are lacking.

Objectives:

The main objective of this study is to describe the study protocol for the evaluation of civic engagement initiatives in serious illness, dying, and loss in two neighbourhoods in Flanders, Belgium.

Design:

A convergent-parallel mixed-method process and outcome evaluation for the CEIN study.

Methods & analysis:

We look at the evaluation of CEIN through a critical realist lens, thereby including the social, political, and economic determinants of social change in CEIN, the mechanisms to achieve this social change, the outcomes, and the mutual connection between these three aspects. We will conduct a convergent-parallel mixed-method process and outcome evaluation in which qualitative (i.e. observations, interviews, group discussions, and ego network mapping) and quantitative data (i.e. a pre–post survey) are simultaneously but separately collected and analysed and in the last stage combined by narrative synthesis.

Discussion:

This protocol illustrates the difficulty of operationalising the desired long-term impact of social changes regarding serious illness, dying, and loss into more manageable outcomes. We recommend a well-cogitated logic model that connects the outcomes of the study to its potential actions. Applying this protocol in practice is a constant exercise between providing sufficient flexibility to meet feasibility, desirability, and context-specific needs in the CEIN study and providing sufficient guidelines to structure and control the evaluation process.
Patient Perspectives on the Burden and Prevention of Diabetes-Related Foot Disease
Authors: Crowley Benjamin , Drovandi Aaron , Seng Leonard , Fernando Malindu E. , Ross Diane , Golledge Jonathan
Published: April 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to understand patient perspectives about the impact and prevention of diabetes-related foot disease (DFD).

Methods:

An online survey was distributed to patients with a history of DFD during 2020. The survey was designed alongside clinical specialists and DFD patients and utilized the health belief model. It asked about the impact of DFD on health, perceptions on preventive strategies, perceived need for additional support, and patient preferences for telehealth in DFD management. Quantitative data were summarized descriptively and compared between groups. Open-text responses were analyzed using conceptual content analysis.

Results:

Of 80 participants with a history of DFD, foot ulcers were the complication most often experienced, with over two-thirds having been admitted to hospital for a DFD-related issue and over one-third having a DFD-related amputation. Participants had ranging perceptions on the effect of DFD on health, from minimal to crippling. Those with previous severe DFD complications leading to hospital admission found a lack of mobility and independence the consequences of most concern. Using offloading footwear was perceived as very important for preventing DFD complications, although the use of offloading footwear was low, with participants citing issues relating to cost, comfort, appearance, and access to footwear as barriers to better adherence. Perceptions on telehealth were mixed, with many participants not having access to or being comfortable with the use of digital technologies.

Conclusions:

Patients with DFD require additional supports for effective prevention, including offloading footwear.
The paramedic role in caring for people who use illicit and controlled drugs: A scoping review
Authors: Bolster Jennifer , Armour Richard , O’Toole Michelle , Lysko Meghan , Batt Alan M.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

As the paramedic profession continues to grow and evolve, a shift from purely reactive to holistic patient care models is required. As the first and often the only point of medical contact for many patients from marginalised and under-served populations, the paramedic role and its potential future implications in caring for these patients need to be explored.

Aim

The objective of this scoping review was to explore the paramedic's role in caring for people who use illicit and controlled drugs.

Methods

A scoping review of English language literature published since 2002 was conducted using CINAHL, Medline, Embase and Google Scholar. We used a previously published paramedic search term filter for sensitivity combined with search terms related to illicit and controlled drug use and addiction. Studies were selected based on relevance to the research question.

Results

A total of 104 peer-reviewed and 14 grey literature articles were selected for inclusion. The main finding of this scoping review is the notable lack of evidence base surrounding the contemporary paramedic role in the care provision of people who use drugs. The results highlight high rates of mortality following a paramedic-attended drug poisoning event, presenting a unique opportunity for paramedics to approach care in meaningful ways that extend past traditional drug poisoning response.

Conclusions

The interface between the community of people who use drugs and the paramedic may be a highly influential encounter during a patient's journey through the healthcare system. The evolving role of the paramedic in this encounter requires focused study and should be viewed as a research priority in response to the ongoing drug poisoning crisis.
Pedestrian mobility in Mobility as a Service (MaaS): sustainable value potential and policy implications in the Paris region case
Authors: Reyes Madrigal Laura Mariana , Nicolaï Isabelle , Puchinger Jakob
Published: April 2023

Pedestrian mobility remains neglected in MaaS solutions, yet it has the potential to become a tool for promoting public policies and more sustainable lifestyles away from excessive private car use. This research identifies the potential for sustainable value creation and the transversal implications for policymakers and other MaaS stakeholders of overlooking walking in innovations like MaaS. To do so, we explore how walking is currently integrated into four MaaS solutions in the Paris region. Our main findings show heterogeneity in the hierarchy given to walking in the user interfaces and the determinant roles of governance and policy in supporting the prioritization of pedestrian mobility in MaaS.
New insights into the occurrence of continuous cropping obstacles in pea (Pisum sativum L.) from soil bacterial communities, root metabolism and gene transcription
Authors: Ma Lei , Ma Shaoying , Chen Guiping , Lu Xu , Wei Ruonan , Xu Ling , Feng Xiaojie , Yang Xiaoming , Chai Qiang , Zhang Xucheng , Li Sheng
Published: April 2023

Background

Continuous cropping is a significant obstacle to sustainable development in the pea (Pisum sativum L.) industry, but the underlying mechanisms of this remain unclear. In this study, we used 16 S rDNA sequencing, transcriptomics, and metabolomics to analyze the response mechanism of roots and soil bacteria to continuous cropping and the relationship between soil bacteria and root phenotypes of different pea genotypes (Ding wan 10 and Yun wan 8).

Results

Continuous cropping inhibited pea growth, with a greater effect on Ding wan 10 than Yun wan 8. Metabolomics showed that the number of differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) in pea roots increased with the number of continuous cropping, and more metabolic pathways were involved. Transcriptomics revealed that the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) increased with the number of continuous cropping. Continuous cropping altered the expression of genes involved in plant-pathogen interaction, MAPK signal transduction, and lignin synthesis pathways in pea roots, with more DEGs in Ding wan 10 than in Yun wan 8. The up-regulated expression of genes in the ethylene signal transduction pathway was evident in Ding wan 10. Soil bacterial diversity did not change, but the relative abundance of bacteria significantly responded to continuous cropping. Integrative analysis showed that the bacteria with significant relative abundance in the soil were strongly associated with the antioxidant synthesis and linoleic acid metabolism pathway of pea roots under continuous cropping once. Under continuous cropping twice, the bacteria with significant relative abundance changes were strongly associated with cysteine and methionine metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, terpenoid backbone biosynthesis, linoleic acid, and amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism.

Conclusion

Ding wan 10 was more sensitive to continuous cropping than Yun wan 8. Continuous cropping times and pea genotypes determined the differences in root metabolic pathways. There were common metabolic pathways in the two pea genotypes in response to continuous cropping, and the DEGs and DAMs in these metabolic pathways were strongly associated with the bacteria with significant changes in relative abundance in the soil. This study provides new insights into obstacles to continuous cropping in peas.
Differences in the longitudinal change of behaviours related to dementia in long-term care: a growth mixture modelling approach
Authors: Robitaille Annie , Garcia Linda , Terrera Graciela Muniz
Published: April 2023

Background

There is still a need for more information about the different trajectories of responsive behaviours that people living with dementia present in long-term care homes (LTC). Objective. This study identified subgroups of individuals with similar trajectories of responsive behaviours related to dementia in LTC and evaluated the role of demographic variables, depressive symptomatology, social engagement, cognitive functioning, and activities of daily living (ADL) on class membership.

Methods

Growth mixture models were run using data from the Continuing Care Reporting System.

Results

Results suggest that change in responsive behaviours is best represented by seven classes of trajectories. The largest class was composed of individuals who presented the lowest frequency of behaviours upon entry in LTC that increased at a slow linear rate. The other classes were composed of individuals who presented different frequencies of behaviours upon entry in LTC and varying rates of change (e.g., individuals who presented a low frequency of behaviours upon entry in LTC that increased at a linear rate followed by a decrease in the later months, individuals who presented a high frequency of responsive behaviours upon entry in LTC and that remained stable). Cognitive functioning, social engagement, depressive symptomatology, and ADL were markers of class membership.

Conclusions

These findings can help identify individuals at increased risk of presenting a high frequency of responsive behaviours and highlight interventions that could decrease behaviours in LTC.
Predicting mortality in patients diagnosed with advanced dementia presenting at an acute care hospital: the PROgnostic Model for Advanced DEmentia (PRO-MADE)
Authors: Kaur Palvinder , Kannapiran Palvannan , Ng Sheryl Hui Xian , Chu Jermain , Low Zhi Jun , Ding Yew Yoong , Tan Woan Shin , Hum Allyn
Published: April 2023

Background

Challenges in prognosticating patients diagnosed with advanced dementia (AD) hinders timely referrals to palliative care. We aim to develop and validate a prognostic model to predict one-year all-cause mortality (ACM) in patients with AD presenting at an acute care hospital.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilised administrative and clinical data from Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH). Patients admitted to TTSH between 1st July 2016 and 31st October 2017 and identified to have AD were included. The primary outcome was ACM within one-year of AD diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression was used. The PROgnostic Model for Advanced Dementia (PRO-MADE) was internally validated using a bootstrap resampling of 1000 replications and externally validated on a more recent cohort of AD patients. The model was evaluated for overall predictive accuracy (Nagelkerke’s R2 and Brier score), discriminative [area-under-the-curve (AUC)], and calibration [calibration slope and calibration-in-the-large (CITL)] properties.

Results

A total of 1,077 patients with a mean age of 85 (SD: 7.7) years old were included, and 318 (29.5%) patients died within one-year of AD diagnosis. Predictors of one-year ACM were age > 85 years (OR:1.87; 95%CI:1.36 to 2.56), male gender (OR:1.62; 95%CI:1.18 to 2.22), presence of pneumonia (OR:1.75; 95%CI:1.25 to 2.45), pressure ulcers (OR:2.60; 95%CI:1.57 to 4.31), dysphagia (OR:1.53; 95%CI:1.11 to 2.11), Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥ 8 (OR:1.39; 95%CI:1.01 to 1.90), functional dependency in ≥ 4 activities of daily living (OR: 1.82; 95%CI:1.32 to 2.53), abnormal urea (OR:2.16; 95%CI:1.58 to 2.95) and abnormal albumin (OR:3.68; 95%CI:2.07 to 6.54) values. Internal validation results for optimism-adjusted Nagelkerke’s R2, Brier score, AUC, calibration slope and CITL were 0.25 (95%CI:0.25 to 0.26), 0.17 (95%CI:0.17 to 0.17), 0.76 (95%CI:0.76 to 0.76), 0.95 (95% CI:0.95 to 0.96) and 0 (95%CI:-0.0001 to 0.001) respectively. When externally validated, the model demonstrated an AUC of 0.70 (95%CI:0.69 to 0.71), calibration slope of 0.64 (95%CI:0.63 to 0.66) and CITL of -0.27 (95%CI:-0.28 to -0.26).

Conclusion

The PRO-MADE attained good discrimination and calibration properties. Used synergistically with a clinician’s judgement, this model can identify AD patients who are at high-risk of one-year ACM to facilitate timely referrals to palliative care.
Monoclonal antibodies against CGRP (R): non-responders and switchers: real world data from an austrian case series
Authors: Kaltseis Katharina , Filippi Vera , Frank Florian , Eckhardt Christine , Schiefecker Alois , Broessner Gregor
Published: April 2023

Objective

Assessement of the responder and non-responder rate to consecutive monoclonal CGRP-antibody (CGRP-mAb) treatment, the presence of side effects, analysis of predictors of response and loss-of-effectiveness evaluation over time.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis including 171 patients with episodic (EM) or chronic migraine (CM), who received one, two or three different CGRP-mAbs. Non-response was defined as ≤ 50% reduction of monthly migraine days (MMDs) in EM and ≤ 30% reduction of MMDs in CM after 3 months of treatment.

Results

123 (71.9%) responded to the first mAb. Side effects led to treatment discontinuation in 9 (5.3%) patients. Of the 26 patients who did not respond to the first mAb or experienced a loss of efficacy over time, 11 (42.3%) responded to the second and two (28.6%) of 7 to the third monoclonal antibody. Poor response to therapy was associated with a higher monthly migraine frequency (p = 0.028), a higher number of prior preventive migraine therapies (p = 0.011) and medication overuse (p = 0.022).

Conclusion

Our findings support mAb-class switch in non-responders or in patients experiencing a loss of effectiveness. The use of a third CGRP-mAb could be beneficial for some patients.
Impact of community health interventions on maternal and child health indicators in the upper east region of Ghana
Authors: Sakeah Evelyn , Bawah Ayaga A. , Asuming Patrick O. , Debpuur Cornelius , Welaga Paul , Awine Timothy , Anyorikeya Maria , Kuwolamo Irene , Oh Juhwan , Lee Hoon Sang , Lee Hwa-Young , Lee Inseok , Kim Myeong Seon , Hong Seoyeon , Awoonor-Williams John Koku , Phillips James F. , Aboagye Patrick , Oduro Abraham R.
Published: April 2023

Background

This paper reports on results of a health system strengthening implementation research initiative conducted the Upper East Region of northern Ghana. Transformative interventions to accelerate and strengthen the health delivery were implemented that included empowering community leaders and members to actively participate in health delivery, strengthening the referral systems through the provision of community transport systems, providing basic medical equipment to community clinics, and improving the skills of critical health staff through training.

Methods

A mixed method design was used to evaluate the impact of the interventions. A quantitative evaluation employed a flexible research design to test the effects of various component activities of the project. To assess impact, a pre-versus–post randomized cluster survey design was used. Qualitative research was conducted with focus group data and individual in depth interviews to gauge the views of various stakeholders associated with the implementation process.

Results

After intervention, significant improvements in key maternal and child health indicators such as antenatal and postnatal care coverage were observed and increases in the proportion of deliveries occurring in health facilities and assisted by skilled health personnel relative to pre-intervention conditions. There was also increased uptake of oral rehydration salts (ORS) for treatment of childhood diarrhoea, as well as marked reductions in the incidence of upper respiratory infections (URI).

Conclusions

A pre-and post-evaluation of impact suggests that the programme had a strong positive impact on the functioning of primary health care. Findings are consistent with the proposition that the coverage and content of the Ghana Community-based Health Planning and Services programme was improved by program interventions and induced discernable changes in key indicators of health system performance.
Longitudinal study of the relationship between number of prior miscarriages or stillbirths and changes in quality of life of pregnant women: the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS)
Authors: Futakawa Kaori , Matsumura Kenta , Tsuchida Akiko , Konishi Mizuho , Sasaki Hatoko , Mezawa Hidetoshi , Yamamoto–Hanada Kiwako , Inadera Hidekuni , Hasegawa Tomomi ,   the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS) Group, Kamijima Michihiro , Yamazaki Shin , Ohya Yukihiro , Kishi Reiko , Yaegashi Nobuo , Hashimoto Koichi , Mori Chisato , Ito Shuichi , Yamagata Zentaro , Nakayama Takeo , Sobue Tomotaka , Shima Masayuki , Nakamura Hiroshige , Suganuma Narufumi , Kusuhara Koichi , Katoh Takahiko
Published: April 2023

Background

Although a history of miscarriage or stillbirth has been reported to negatively affect quality of life (QOL) during the subsequent pregnancy, the association between the number of previous miscarriages or stillbirths and QOL, as well as trends in QOL during pregnancy, has not been clarified. This study sought to determine this association during early and mid- to late pregnancy.

Methods

Data from 82,013 pregnant women who participated in the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS) from January 2011 to March 2014 were analyzed. In early and mid/late pregnancy, participants completed questionnaires and QOL was assessed using the Physical and Mental Component Summary (PCS and MCS, respectively) scores from the 8-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-8). The pregnant women were divided into four groups according to number of previous miscarriages or stillbirths (0, 1, 2, and ≥ 3), and the PCS and MCS scores in early pregnancy and mid/late pregnancy were compared between group 0 and groups 1, 2, and ≥ 3. Generalized linear mixed models were used for analysis.

Results

PCS score in early pregnancy was lower in group 1 (β =  − 0.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] − 0.42 to − 0.15), group 2 (β =  − 0.45, 95% CI − 0.73 to − 0.18), and group ≥ 3 (β =  − 0.87, 95% CI − 1.39 to − 0.35) than in group 0. Group 1 and group ≥ 3 showed a trend for increased PCS score during pregnancy (β = 0.22, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.37 and β = 0.75, 95% CI 0.18 to 1.33, respectively) compared with group 0.

Conclusions

PCS score in early pregnancy was lower with a more frequent history of miscarriage or stillbirth. However, in terms of changes in QOL during pregnancy, pregnant women with a history of miscarriage or stillbirth showed greater increases in PCS score during mid/late pregnancy than pregnant women with no history of miscarriage or stillbirth.
Distribution of uterocervical angles of pregnant women at 16+ 0 to 23+ 6 weeks gestation with low risk for preterm birth: first vietnamese cohort of women with singleton pregnancies
Authors: Nguyen Thi Hoang Trang , Vu Van Tam , Nguyen Vu Quoc Huy
Published: April 2023

Background

Cervical length (CL) measured by ultrasound in the second trimester is a predictor of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB). The uterocervical angle (UCA) has recently been suggested as a predictor to identify women at risk of sPTB. The aim of this study was to investigate the UCAs’ distribution in singleton pregnant women at 16+ 0− 23+ 6weeks of gestation with low risk for sPTB.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of 1,051 pregnant women with singleton pregnancies at low risk for preterm delivery. Pregnant women with a viable singleton fetus at 16+ 0− 23+ 6weeks of gestation were enrolled in the study conducted at the Haiphong Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vietnam, from 09/2019 to 09/2020. CL and the UCA were assessed using transvaginal ultrasonography (TVS) by a single sonographer. Subjects were followed-up until the end of pregnancy, and maternal and neonatal outcomes were recorded. The UCAs’ range and their relationship with gestational age were evaluated using regression analysis. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The normal range of the UCA (5th− 95thpercentiles) was 46.47° (95% CI, 40.27°-51.81°) to 127.06° (95% CI, 123.02° − 130.71°). The UCAs in the preterm birth (< 37 weeks) and full-term groups were 117.86° ± 20.25° and 83.80° ± 24.18°, respectively (p < 0.001). Linear regression analysis showed a significant change in the UCA range from 16+ 0to 23+ 6weeks of gestation (2.51 degrees per week, p < 0.001). The linear function yielded the highest correlation coefficient in the variation rule of the UCA values (r = 0.22). A total of 42/63 (66.7%) patients with preterm birth < 37 weeks had a UCA above the 75thpercentile. The majority of women with preterm birth had a UCA ≥ 95° compared with those with full-term delivery (88.9% vs. 31.3%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The results of this study present background information about the normal range of UCA values in singleton pregnant women at 16+ 0to 23+ 6weeks at low risk for sPTB in this Vietnamese cohort. In this study population at low risk for sPTB, pregnant women with a UCA value ≥ 95owere also considered at risk for preterm birth.
Cytomegalovirus seronegativity rate in pregnant women and primary cytomegalovirus infection during pregnancy in rural Germany
Authors: Greye Hannah , Wex Thomas , Taneva Elina , Redlich Anke , Costa Serban-Dan , Rissmann Anke
Published: April 2023

Background

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the most common congenital infection worldwide and one of the leading causes of congenital hearing loss in newborns. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence rate for cytomegalovirus in pregnant women and the rate of CMV serological testing utilised during pregnancy in a rural region in Germany.

Methods

Retrospective data on the prevalence of CMV IgG and IgM antibodies were obtained from 3,800 women, identified in the study group of 19,511 pregnant women from outpatient settings whose samples were collected between 1 and 2014 and 30 April 2018. In addition, the serological CMV status in regards to various billing methods was further analyzed.

Results

Serological CMV tests were performed in 3,800 (19.5%) out of 19,511 pregnant women. 2,081 (54.8%) of these women were CMV seronegative. Among those, seroconversion rate of 0.37–1.42% was identified. A proportion of 2,710 (14.7%) of all 18,460 women with statutory health insurance made use of the CMV testing as an individual health service.

Conclusions

The low uptake of CMV serological testing in the study population covered indicates low risk awareness among pregnant women and their healthcare professionals. Presented seronegativity rates and routine seroconversion rate, demonstrate importance to improve intervention strategy to prevent feto-maternal CMV transmission.
Dose prediction of organs at risk in patients with cervical cancer receiving brachytherapy using needle insertion based on a neural network method
Authors: Zhang Huai-wen , Zhong Xiao-ming , Zhang Zhen-hua , Pang Hao-wen
Published: April 2023

Objective

A neural network method was employed to establish a dose prediction model for organs at risk (OAR) in patients with cervical cancer receiving brachytherapy using needle insertion.

Methods

A total of 218 CT-based needle-insertion brachytherapy fraction plans for loco-regionally advanced cervical cancer treatment were analyzed in 59 patients. The sub-organ of OAR was automatically generated by self-written MATLAB, and the volume of the sub-organ was read. Correlations between D2cm3 of each OAR and volume of each sub-organ—as well as high-risk clinical target volume for bladder, rectum, and sigmoid colon—were analyzed. We then established a neural network predictive model of D2cm3 of OAR using the matrix laboratory neural net. Of these plans, 70% were selected as the training set, 15% as the validation set, and 15% as the test set. The regression R value and mean squared error were subsequently used to evaluate the predictive model.

Results

The D2cm3/D90 of each OAR was related to volume of each respective sub-organ. The R values for bladder, rectum, and sigmoid colon in the training set for the predictive model were 0.80513, 0.93421, and 0.95978, respectively. The ∆D2cm3/D90 for bladder, rectum, and sigmoid colon in all sets was 0.052 ± 0.044, 0.040 ± 0.032, and 0.041 ± 0.037, respectively. The MSE for bladder, rectum, and sigmoid colon in the training set for the predictive model was 4.779 × 10−3, 1.967 × 10−3 and 1.574 × 10−3, respectively.

Conclusion

The neural network method based on a dose-prediction model of OAR in brachytherapy using needle insertion was simple and reliable. In addition, it only addressed volumes of sub-organs to predict the dose of OAR, which we believe is worthy of further promotion and application.
Global prevalence of coronavirus disease 2019 reinfection: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ukwishaka Joyeuse , Ndayishimiye Yves , Destine Esmeralda , Danwang Celestin , Kirakoya-Samadoulougou Fati
Published: April 2023

Background

In December 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged with a high transmissibility rate and resulted in numerous negative impacts on global life. Preventive measures such as face masks, social distancing, and vaccination helped control the pandemic. Nonetheless, the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants, such as Omega and Delta, as well as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) reinfection, raise additional concerns. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the overall prevalence of reinfection on global and regional scales.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted across three databases, PubMed, Scopus, and ProQuest Central, including all articles pertaining to COVID-19 reinfection without language restriction. After critical appraisal and qualitative synthesis of the identified relevant articles, a meta-analysis considering random effects was used to pool the studies.

Results

We included 52 studies conducted between 2019 and 2022, with a total sample size of 3,623,655 patients. The overall prevalence of COVID-19 reinfection was 4.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.7–4.8%; n = 52), with high heterogeneity between studies. Africa had the highest prevalence of 4.7% (95% CI: 1.9–7.5%; n = 3), whereas Oceania and America had lower estimates of 0.3% (95% CI: 0.2–0.4%; n = 1) and 1% (95% CI: 0.8–1.3%; n = 7), respectively. The prevalence of reinfection in Europe and Asia was 1.2% (95% CI: 0.8–1.5%; n = 8) and 3.8% (95% CI: 3.4–4.3%; n = 43), respectively. Studies that used a combined type of specimen had the highest prevalence of 7.6% (95% CI: 5.8–9.5%; n = 15) compared with those that used oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal swabs only that had lower estimates of 6.7% (95% CI: 4.8–8.5%; n = 8), and 3.4% (95% CI: 2.8–4.0%; n = 12) respectively.

Conclusion

COVID-19 reinfection occurs with varying prevalence worldwide, with the highest occurring in Africa. Therefore, preventive measures, including vaccination, should be emphasized to ensure control of the pandemic.
The socio-demographic profile associated with perinatal depression during the COVID-19 era
Authors: Kovacheva Katina , Rodríguez-Muñoz María F. , Gómez-Baya Diego , Domínguez-Salas Sara , Motrico Emma
Published: April 2023

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused an increase in perinatal depression. The aim of this research was to identify which sociodemographic variables are related to the increase in perinatal depression due to the pandemic. In addition to estimating to what extent they predict perinatal depression, differentiating the prenatal and postnatal periods.

Methods

The sample consisted of 3,356 subjects, 1,402 in the prenatal period and 1,954 in the postnatal period. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used to assess depressive symptomatology. A subset of 14 questions was included to collect demographic data. Items from the Spanish version of the Coronavirus Perinatal Experiences Survey were also included.

Results

Experiencing the change of environment due to COVID-19 as negative and having a history of mental health predict perinatal depression, otherwise having higher education decreases the risk. In the prenatal stage having symptoms compatible with COVID-19 is a predictor of perinatal depression and having more than 3 years living together with the partner and being a housewife decreases the risk. In the postnatal stage being unemployed is a predictor of prenatal depression and being a first-time mother decreases the risk.

Conclusions

This study highlights the relevance of sociodemographic status. It is essential to be aware of the risk factors of perinatal depression, to make adequate prevention, and to create health policies to alleviate the consequences of the pandemic.
“Platelet-Rich Plasma” epidural injection an emerging strategy in lumbar disc herniation: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wongjarupong Asarn , Pairuchvej Saran , Laohapornsvan Panyajarn , Kotheeranurak Vit , Jitpakdee Khanathip , Yeekian Chunrutai , Chanplakorn Pongsthorn
Published: April 2023

Background

Lumbar herniated disc (HNP) is mainly treated by conservative management. Epidural steroid injection (ESI) has been an option to treat failed cases prior to surgery. Triamcinolone has been widely used due to its efficacy in bringing about pain reduction for up to three months. However, several reports have shown some severe adverse events. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is made from blood through centrifugation. Several studies supported the potential short to long-term effects, and safety of PRP injection in treating HNP. The study objective was to evaluate the efficacy of PRP in treatment of single-level lumbar HNP in comparison to triamcinolone.

Methods

Thirty patients were treated by transforaminal epidural injections. PRP was obtained from 24 ml venous blood through standardized double-spin protocol. Participants included fifteen patients each being in triamcinolone and PRP groups. The same postoperative protocols and medications were applied. The visual analogue scale of leg (LegVAS), collected at baseline, 2, 6, 12, and 24 weeks, was the primary outcome. The BackVAS, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), adverse event, and treatment failure were the secondary endpoints.

Results

Platelet ratio of PRP in fifteen patients was 2.86 ± 0.85. Patients treated by PRP injections showed statistically and clinically significant reduction in LegVAS at 6, 12, and 24 weeks, and in ODI at 24 weeks. It demonstrated comparable results on other aspects. No adverse event occurred in either group.

Conclusion

Noncommercial epidural double-spin PRP yielded superior results to triamcinolone. Due to its efficacy and safety, the procedure is recommended in treating single level lumbar HNP.

Trial registration

NCT, NCT05234840. Registered 1 January 2019,https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT05234840.
Short-term clinical outcomes of laparoscopic duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection for the management of pancreatic-head cystic neoplasms
Authors: Xia Zhaozhi , Zhao Shuchao , Gao Xin , Sun Hongrui , Yang Faji , Zhu Huaqiang , Gao Hengjun , Lu Jun , Zhou Xu
Published: April 2023

Background

In this study, we aimed to investigate the short-term clinical outcomes of laparoscopic duodenum-preserving pancreatic-head resection (LDPPHR) for the management of pancreatic-head cystic neoplasms.

Methods

This retrospective study included 60 patients who were treated with pancreatic-head cystic neoplasms at the Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University from December 2019 to July 2022.

Results

No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of the baseline and pathological characteristics of patients (P > 0.05). The postoperative exhaust time was shorter in the LDPPHR group compared with the laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD) group (2 (2 and 4) vs. 4 (3 and 5) days; P = 0.003). No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of operative time, estimated blood loss, intraoperative transfusion, hemoglobin levels on the first postoperative day, total bilirubin before discharge, direct bilirubin before discharge, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative pancreatic fistula, bile leakage, hemorrhage, peritoneal effusion, abdominal infection, delayed gastric emptying, interventional embolization hemostasis, reoperation, and 30-day readmission (P > 0.05). No conversion and 90-day mortality were found in the two groups. The LDPPHR group showed a higher 3-month postoperative PNI, 6-month postoperative TG and 6-month postoperative BMI than the LPD group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with LPD, LDPPHR can decrease the postoperative exhaust time of patients, improve the short-term postoperative nutritional status, and does not decrease the safety of the perioperative period.
A comparative study of robotic surgery and thoracoscopic surgery for mediastinal cysts
Authors: Hong Ziqiang , Sheng Yannan , Cui Baiqiang , Bai Xiangdou , Cheng Tao , Lu Yingjie , Wu Xusheng , Jin Dacheng , Gou Yunjiu , Zhao Jing
Published: April 2023

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS) with video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) in the treatment of mediastinal cysts.

Methods

Retrospective analysis on clinical data of 70 cases of minimally invasive surgery for mediastinal cysts completed in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Gansu Provincial People’s Hospital from April 2014 to December 2022. There were 34 cases in the RATS group with a cyst diameter of (3.70 ± 1.16) cm and 36 cases in the VATS group with a cyst diameter of (4.07 ± 1.20) cm. All cysts were evaluated preoperatively using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or chest computed tomography (CT) localization. Surgery-related indices were compared among the two groups.

Results

All patients in two groups successfully completed resection of mediastinal cysts without perioperative deaths. Compared with the VATS group, the RATS group possessed shorter operative time [(75.32 ± 17.80) min vs. (102.22 ± 19.80) min, P < 0.001], lesser intraoperative bleeding [10 (5.00, 26.00) ml vs. 17.50 (5.00, 50.50) ml, P = 0.009], shorter postoperative chest drainage time [2 (1.00, 6.00) ml vs. 3 (2.00, 6.50) ml, P = 0.006] and shorter postoperative hospital stay [3 (2.00, 6.50) d vs. 4 (3.00, 7.50) d, P = 0.001]. There was no statistically significant discrepancy in intermediate openings and complications in both groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Compared with VATS, RATS is safety and effectivity in the treatment of mediastinal cysts and thus has advantages in operative time, intraoperative bleeding, postoperative chest drainage time and postoperative hospital stay.
Evaluation of the therapeutic effect of dressing containing Silver (Ag coat) in the process of healing skin blisters caused by limb fractures: a clinical trial study
Authors: Teimouri Mehdi , Lalehzar Sahar sadat
Published: April 2023

Background

The main activity of the skin is to create a protective barrier against damage. Loss of the skin due to injury or disease and failure to regenerate the affected area may result in disability, infection, or even death. We conducted a clinical trial to evaluate the therapeutic effect of dressing containing silver in process of healing skin blisters caused by limb fractures.

Method

This is a pioneering randomized trial that compares the effectiveness of two dressings containing silver (Ag coat) and Gaz Vaseline among patients with skin blisters due to bone fractures who were randomly selected from patients referred to the Kashani Medical Training Center. There were two treatment groups containing 16 patients treated with Ag coat and 15 patients treated with Gaz Vaseline. Pictures were taken of blisters on days 0, 7, and 14 to evaluate the healing process. The amount of pain, duration of the visit (measured by minutes), and general condition of the wound were checked. The amount of pain, duration of visit (measured by minutes) and general condition of the wound was checked. All continuous and categorical data are presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD) and frequency (percentage), respectively. Paired sample T-test and repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA), Chi-squared test was used. All pictures were analyzed by Mosaic soft ward.

Result

During this study, there was no significant difference between the mean of age and BMI and frequency of gender in the two study groups (P > 0.05). There was a significant difference in mean between the duration of the visit, number of dressings, and net cost of dressing $$(p <0.05)$$

(
p
<
0.05
)

. In the macroscopic study and analysis for evaluation and comparing wound area with the Mosaic soft ward, there was significant relation in time (p1 = 0.00). There is no significant difference between the groups (p2 = 0.84). There was a significant difference between time and group (p3 = 0.00). On day 14 the wound area between groups had a significant difference (p4 = 0.00) (Table 3). In the VAS score there was a significant difference in time, and group (p1,2 = 0.00), there was no significant relation between time and group (p3 = 0.62). On all days the wound area between groups had a significant difference (p4 = 0.00).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ag coat dressing, not only has a significant effect on wound healing but also, decreases pain, shorter visit time, and its more cost-effective.